When Andy Ng, a veteran trainer and speaker with nearly three decades of experience, joined my Speakers Society Accelerator, he thought he’d seen it all.

“It wasn’t just about stage presence,” he later wrote. “It was about how to think, act, and grow like a Speaker CEO.”

That line stayed with me — because it wasn’t about what he learnt; it was about how he evolved.

Ng came in as a seasoned trainer and speaker. He left thinking like a brand, acting like a business, and scaling like a system. And that, to me, perfectly captures the future of influence: Where human connection meets intelligent automation.

Because AI won’t replace influence. It will amplify it.

From stage to system: The evolution of the modern influencer

The world of influence has changed more in the last two years than in the last two decades. Speakers, creators, and founders are no longer just voices — we’re systems. And those systems now run on AI.

I’ve seen it first-hand. During our latest Speakers Society Accelerator Cast 3, something magical happened: Participants weren’t just learning how to speak better — they were learning how to scale their message.

They used AI tools to brainstorm ideas, repurpose content, and even automate follow-ups. But the turning point wasn’t the technology itself — it was the moment they realised that automation didn’t make them less human; it made their human moments more powerful.

Also Read: AI for everyone: 25 tools to automate, create, and innovate

“The mix of human interaction and AI automation can help scale business faster,” I often tell founders and creators. “Because the goal isn’t to replace what you do — it’s to multiply it.”

Automation with soul

At this year’s e27 Flux Series 2025, I will be sharing about “Automating Marketing: AI Workflows for Follow-Ups and Content Creation.”

We’ve entered a time where AI is no longer just a tool — it’s an amplifier of intent. Agentic AI systems can plan, execute, and even speak on our behalf. Multimodal models can see, listen, and act. But even the most advanced algorithms still rely on something only humans can provide: Purpose.

• AI can mirror your voice, but not your values.
• It can express your brand, but not your belief.
• It can deliver your message, but not your meaning.

And that’s why influence remains deeply human, because what people follow isn’t the automation, it’s the authenticity behind it.

The AI amplifier: Scaling the human edge

AI has given us superpowers — speed, precision, and scale. But scale without soul is noise.

In the Speakers Society Accelerator, we teach speakers and creators to think like CEOs — to design systems that grow even when they’re not on stage. That’s where AI shines: in amplifying your reach without diluting your voice.

Let me explain it through what I call the AI amplifier framework:

• Human-led, AI-assisted: You set the direction; AI accelerates the execution.
• Automate the mechanics, not the magic: Let AI handle repetitive workflows, while you focus on storytelling and empathy.
• Data-driven, heart-powered: Use AI for insight, but let your message be inspired by human experience.

When Ng shared his “13 Lessons” from the Accelerator, one stood out most: “Use AI as a partner, not a master.”

That’s the mindset shift every modern creator, founder, and leader needs.

Also Read: Why bootstrapping remains the key to survival in Asia’s funding winter

Trust: The new currency of influence

One of Ng’s other reflections was simple but profound: “People don’t buy your slides or your words — they buy you.”

As we move into an era where AI voices and deepfakes can clone authenticity, trust becomes the currency that sets humans apart.

This is why I believe the next generation of influential leaders will be those who combine credibility, transparency, and technology seamlessly.

Singapore, for instance, is already pioneering digital trust frameworks — from verified content to watermarking systems — to ensure authenticity in AI-generated media. The message is clear: in a future filled with synthetic voices, being real is revolutionary.

Beyond automation: The rise of AI-enabled influence

Across my ventures, I’ve seen the same pattern repeat: AI doesn’t just save time; it creates space. Space to innovate. Space to connect. Space to lead.

Seraphina AI, my own digital twin, manages parts of my communication and systems, but she doesn’t replace me. She amplifies me. She gives me the freedom to focus on relationships, creativity, and thought leadership — the very things that make a brand human.

And that’s the shift I see happening globally: Founders, speakers, and creators are learning that automation doesn’t strip away identity — it strengthens it.

From hustle to harmony

Once upon a time, I believed hustle was the only way to succeed. Then I learnt automation was the smarter way. Now I realise — harmony is the sustainable way.

Harmony between tech and touch. Between data and emotion. Between AI precision and human imperfection.

The entrepreneurs who will thrive in this next decade aren’t those who do more, but those who design systems that do more for them.

That’s why my next project, Money and AI, explores how creators and founders can monetise smarter — not by adding more tasks, but by building intelligent ecosystems that grow influence and income simultaneously.

The final word: Leadership with a voice

AI is learning to write, speak, and even persuade. But leadership — real leadership — still belongs to those who dare to lead with meaning.

Ng’s journey reminded me that influence starts with intention. Technology will continue to evolve, but it will always take a human to define what matters.

Because AI can replicate our style. But only we can give it soul.

—

Editor’s note: e27 aims to foster thought leadership by publishing views from the community. Share your opinion by submitting an article, video, podcast, or infographic.

Enjoyed this read? Don’t miss out on the next insight. Join our WhatsApp channel for real-time drops.

Image courtesy: Canva

The post AI won’t replace influence — it will amplify it appeared first on e27.

The current macro landscape presents a fascinating juxtaposition of caution and exuberance, where geopolitical friction and fiscal paralysis coexist with a surge in risk appetite driven largely by artificial intelligence optimism and institutional crypto adoption.

At the heart of this duality lies the extended US government shutdown now in its sixth day, a development that would typically trigger risk-off behaviour across global markets. Yet investor sentiment has not only held firm but advanced, propelled by a confluence of factors that underscore a deeper structural shift in how capital allocates across traditional and digital assets.

Wall Street’s mixed performance on Monday reflects this nuanced environment. The Dow Jones Industrial Average edged lower by 0.1 per cent, signalling lingering unease among industrial and legacy sectors. In contrast, the S&P 500 climbed 0.4 per cent and the Nasdaq surged 0.7 per cent, both reaching new all-time highs. This divergence is not random. The rally in chipmakers, companies at the epicentre of AI infrastructure development, has become the primary engine of equity market gains.

Investors are betting that the AI boom is not a fleeting narrative but a multi-year secular trend, and they are positioning accordingly. This tech-led optimism has spilt over into other risk assets, including cryptocurrencies, which posted a 1.43 per cent gain over the past 24 hours, extending weekly and monthly advances of 8.76 per cent and 12.58 per cent, respectively.

Simultaneously, traditional safe-haven assets are also rallying, which at first glance seems contradictory. Gold surged 1.9 per cent to a record high of USD3961 per ounce. This move is directly tied to the US government shutdown, which has injected fresh uncertainty into the coordination of fiscal and monetary policy. With Congress unable to pass a budget, questions linger about the government’s ability to manage debt, respond to economic shocks, or even maintain consistent data reporting, all of which erode confidence in the US dollar as a stable store of value.

The US Dollar Index rose modestly by 0.4 per cent to 98.11, but this uptick appears more technical than fundamental, especially as Treasury yields climbed amid global bond market turbulence. The 10-year yield rose 3.3 basis points to 4.152 per cent, pressured by soaring long-end Japanese yields and political instability in Europe. These crosscurrents illustrate how investors are simultaneously hedging against systemic risk while pursuing growth in high-conviction themes, such as AI and digital assets.

Also Read: How fiat and crypto are redefining cross-border payments

The crypto market’s recent strength cannot be divorced from this macro backdrop. Institutional demand has emerged as the dominant force behind the rally, with spot Bitcoin ETFs recording US$627 million in inflows over a 24-hour period and Ethereum ETFs adding US$307 million. Total assets under management in Bitcoin ETFs now stand at US$161.6 billion, while Ethereum ETFs hold US$25.73 billion. These are not speculative retail bets but deliberate allocations by traditional finance players who increasingly view crypto, particularly Bitcoin, as a macro hedge akin to gold.

The correlation between crypto and gold over the past 24 hours reached 0.74, a striking signal that both assets are being used interchangeably as hedges against inflation and policy uncertainty. This institutional embrace is occurring against a backdrop of cooling inflation data and growing expectations of Federal Reserve rate cuts in 2025, which lowers the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding assets like Bitcoin and gold.

The rally is not solely driven by fundamentals. Derivatives markets are amplifying price action through a surge in leveraged activity. Perpetual futures volume spiked 53.7 per cent to US$1.71 trillion in 24 hours, with funding rates jumping 475 per cent on a weekly basis to 0.0083 per cent. Binance alone accounted for 87 per cent of Bitcoin futures taker volume, underscoring its outsized role in price discovery.

While this derivatives frenzy fuels momentum, it also introduces fragility. Open interest, though near yearly highs, declined 1.24 per cent over the past day, a potential early warning sign of profit-taking or de-leveraging. With the 14-day Relative Strength Index for Bitcoin at 73.3, the market is entering overbought territory, increasing vulnerability to sharp corrections if sentiment shifts.

Adding another layer to this dynamic is the performance of Binance ecosystem tokens, which rose 0.97 per cent in 24 hours and 8.76 per cent for the week. BNB hit an all-time high of US$1,190, supported by the exchange’s record US$2.55 trillion in monthly futures volume and the launch of new AI-powered trading tools.

Binance’s dominance, capturing 41 per cent of global spot trading, provides a sense of stability to the broader crypto market, as its operational strength reassures participants during periods of macro stress. However, this leadership masks underlying retail fatigue. Active addresses across major blockchains have declined by 57 per cent since June, suggesting that while institutions and sophisticated traders are driving volume, everyday users remain on the sidelines. This dichotomy raises questions about the sustainability of the rally if it remains confined to professional players.

Also Read: From Tokyo to crypto: How political shifts and policy bets are reshaping global markets

Looking ahead, several key inflection points could reshape the current trajectory. The most immediate is the October 18 decision on Grayscale’s Ethereum ETF application. An approval would likely unlock another wave of institutional capital, particularly from firms that have thus far remained cautious about direct crypto exposure.

Conversely, a rejection could trigger a short-term pullback, especially if it coincides with a slowdown in ETF inflows or a reversal in tech stock momentum. The Nasdaq’s performance remains critical, given the 0.72 correlation between crypto and the tech-heavy index. Should volatility return to US equities, perhaps triggered by renewed inflation concerns or a deeper fiscal crisis, the crypto market may struggle to decouple.

In sum, today’s market moves reflect a delicate balance between fear and greed, where institutional confidence in digital assets as a legitimate macro hedge is colliding with leveraged speculation and geopolitical uncertainty. The US government shutdown, rather than derailing risk appetite, has reinforced the case for alternative stores of value.

The very forces driving gains, ETF inflows, derivatives leverage, and exchange dominance, also create conditions for heightened volatility. As we navigate this complex environment, the interplay between traditional macro drivers and crypto-specific catalysts will determine whether this rally evolves into a sustained bull market or unravels under the weight of its own momentum.

For now, the data suggests that institutional adoption has fundamentally altered crypto’s role in the global financial system, transforming it from a fringe asset into a core component of modern portfolio construction.

—

Editor’s note: e27 aims to foster thought leadership by publishing views from the community. Share your opinion by submitting an article, video, podcast, or infographic.

Enjoyed this read? Don’t miss out on the next insight. Join our WhatsApp channel for real-time drops.

Image courtesy: Canva

The post AI dreams, crypto magic and shutdown realities: The contradictions fuelling today’s market rally appeared first on e27.

At Echelon Singapore 2025, Walter Oude, founder and CEO of Chocolate Finance, shared the company’s journey of resilience in the face of early challenges. Chocolate Finance positions itself as a modern asset management firm offering higher returns than traditional banks without exposure to the risks of bank failures.

Oude recounted a pivotal moment when the company launched a debit card featuring an ambitious mileage rewards program. While designed to enhance customer value, the initiative backfired as user confusion and dissatisfaction triggered withdrawals. Despite the turbulence, Chocolate Finance upheld its promise of competitive returns and safeguarded customer funds, showcasing both financial and operational resilience.

The episode became a turning point that reinforced the importance of transparency, simplicity, and customer education in financial innovation. By addressing concerns head-on and communicating more clearly, the company began to rebuild trust. Today, Chocolate Finance reports a steady return of customers, drawn by consistent yields and a reputation for reliability. Oude’s story highlighted how even in fintech, sustainable growth depends on learning from missteps, maintaining integrity, and staying focused on long-term value creation.

The post Echelon Singapore 2025 – From bean to breakthrough: Chocolate Finance’s recipe for resilience appeared first on e27.

Singapore’s digital economy continued to strengthen in 2024, reaffirming its role as a key pillar of national growth. According to the Singapore Digital Economy Report 2025, the country’s digital sector not only grew faster than the overall economy but also showed deeper integration of artificial intelligence (AI) across enterprises and the workforce.

In 2024, Singapore’s digital economy reached a nominal value added (VA) of S$128.1 billion, contributing 18.6 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP). This marked an increase from 18.0 per cent in 2023, underscoring the steady expansion of digitalisation across industries.

Between 2019 and 2024, the digital economy grew at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12 per cent, outpacing the overall GDP growth rate of 7.3 per cent during the same period. This sustained momentum illustrates the country’s continued success in harnessing technology as a driver of innovation and competitiveness.

Interestingly, the bulk of digital economic activity came from digitalisation within non-tech sectors. In 2024, digitalisation in industries outside the Information and Communications (I&C) sector accounted for two-thirds of total digital economy value, or 12.6 per cent of GDP.

The Finance and Insurance, Wholesale Trade, and Manufacturing sectors were key contributors to this expansion, reflecting how traditional industries are embedding technology at every level. The I&C sector, meanwhile, accounted for the remaining six per cent of GDP.

Also Read: AI dreams, crypto magic and shutdown realities: The contradictions fuelling today’s market rally

AI adoption reaches new highs

The report highlights a striking surge in AI adoption across both firms and workers in 2024. Among non-small and medium enterprises (non-SMEs), AI adoption jumped from 44.0 per cent in 2023 to 62.5 per cent in 2024. This surge points to a growing confidence in deploying AI for productivity, decision-making, and innovation.

More notably, SME adoption tripled, rising from just 4.2 per cent to 14.5 per cent within a year. This rapid uptake was driven largely by off-the-shelf generative AI (Gen AI) tools, which have lowered the barrier for smaller firms to integrate AI into daily operations.

The Information and Communications and Professional Services sectors led the charge, with adoption rates of 35.9 per cent and 25.7 per cent respectively. Across AI-using firms, the technology was most commonly applied in Information Technology (49 per cent), Customer Service (43 per cent), and Finance and Accounting (40 per cent) functions.

Looking ahead, companies plan to deepen their AI capabilities by investing in workforce training (68 per cent), job redesign (63 per cent), and AI-related infrastructure (59 per cent). These priorities signal a proactive shift from experimentation to long-term capability building.

AI adoption is not limited to organisations. The report found that nearly three in four workers (73.8 per cent) used AI tools in their jobs, with most engaging them daily or several times a week.

Also Read: The missing link in AI: Why clean, verifiable data is the new oil for enterprises

Workers reported leveraging AI for brainstorming and ideation (58 per cent), writing and editing (54 per cent), and administrative tasks (42 per cent). The findings indicate that AI is increasingly used beyond routine automation, supporting both cognitive and creative processes.

The benefits were widespread: 85 per cent of AI users cited improved efficiency, productivity, and work quality. Nearly half (48 per cent) said AI enhanced their creativity, while a third (33 per cent) found it helpful for learning and skill development.

Employers have also played a crucial role in supporting this shift. Around 70 per cent of AI-using employees received organisational backing, primarily through training programmes (62 per cent), access to paid AI tools (42 per cent), and usage guidelines (30 per cent). This structured support has enabled more workers to use AI confidently and responsibly.

As Singapore’s digital economy matures, the findings from the 2025 report reveal a country in transition. One where the benefits of technology are extending beyond tech companies to the wider business community and workforce.

The next phase of growth will depend not just on technology adoption but also on developing a future-ready talent base. With strong emphasis on digital literacy, reskilling, and inclusive access to AI tools, Singapore is positioning itself as a leader in both digital innovation and sustainable economic transformation.

—

Image Credit: Zhu Hongzhi on Unsplash

The post Report: AI adoption fuels record growth in Singapore’s digital economy appeared first on e27.

Singapore VC funds have become the go-to for savvy fund managers who want access to Asia’s booming startup scene without drowning in red tape. With a pro-business environment, clear regulations, and attractive tax incentives, Singapore makes it founder-friendly to launch and scale a fund.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to set up your own Singapore VC fund and position it for long-term success.

Why Singapore VC funds are attracting investors

Singapore has cemented its reputation as one of the most dynamic startup ecosystems in the world, drawing entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, and family offices alike. Its strategic location in Southeast Asia, transparent regulations, and investor-friendly policies make it a natural hub for capital formation.

This didn’t happen overnight. Singapore’s government first laid the foundation back in 1991 through the National Technology Plan, designed to strengthen science and technology capabilities. Since then, initiatives like Startup SG, Enterprise Singapore, and the Economic Development Board (EDB) have expanded access to funding, mentorship, and international networks.

The city-state is also home to accelerators, incubators, and co-working spaces that enable startups to scale rapidly. For venture capitalists, Singapore offers three core advantages:

• A predictable regulatory framework that reduces friction for fund managers.
• Deep tax treaty networks (DTAs) that minimise withholding tax on cross-border income.
• A progressive stance on deep tech and innovation, expected to shape the next decade of growth.

MAS licensing requirements for VC fund managers

In Singapore, anyone managing venture capital funds must obtain a Venture Capital Fund Manager (VCFM) licence from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).

To qualify, managers must meet MAS’ “fit and proper” standards, which assess financial soundness, integrity, reputation, and professional conduct. MAS also acknowledges that venture capital investing benefits from diverse backgrounds and entrepreneurial experience.

Key requirements under the VCFM licence include:

• Corporate structure: The management company must be incorporated in Singapore.
• Board and staffing: At least two directors and two full-time staff must be appointed.
• Office premises: A dedicated private office in Singapore is required to house staff and operations.
• Fund scope: VCFM licensees may only manage venture capital funds under this regime.
• Use of service providers: Any outsourcing of functions must comply with MAS’ Outsourcing Guidelines.

Also Read: From pilot to scale: Why traditional VC metrics don’t work for climate deep tech

Ongoing obligations under the licence include:

• AML/CFT compliance: Strict adherence to MAS’ anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing standards
• Misconduct rules: Compliance with MAS’ standards on misconduct, ensuring integrity and accountability
• Conflict management: Identifying, avoiding, and managing potential conflicts of interest
• Investor disclosures: Providing all investors with clear, specific, and timely disclosures.

Traditionally, fund managers would handle all of this themselves, from setting up the entity, applying for the license, to managing compliance end-to-end. While effective, this route can be resource-heavy and slow.

In Singapore’s market, there are many platform who offer fund in a box or External Asset Manager (EAM) solutions which you can consider if you’re looking for a lighter model.

Choosing the right fund structure in Singapore

The first step in launching a fund is selecting the right structure. Singapore VC funds can be set up under several frameworks, but the most widely used today is the Variable Capital Company (VCC), introduced in 2020 for its flexibility and asset segregation benefits.

Here’s a quick comparison of available structures:

• Variable capital company (VCC): Allows multiple sub-funds under one umbrella, with flexibility in share issuance and redemption.
• Unit trusts: Popular with hedge funds; assets are held by a trustee for investors.
• Limited partnerships (LPs): Common for private equity and VC; partners share profits with varying liability levels.
• Private companies: Traditional corporate vehicle for smaller funds.
• Business trusts: Separate ownership and management, suitable for infrastructure projects or specialized assets.
• REITs (Real estate investment trusts): For funds investing directly in real estate portfolios.

Sometimes a Fund might not be required and a Special Purpose Vehicle or SPV can suffice.

Tax incentives and benefits for Singapore VC funds

Singapore’s appeal is further enhanced by its robust tax incentive framework, designed to attract high-value economic activities. According to PwC, “Tax incentive applications are subject to detailed evaluation of an applicant’s business plans, requiring strong commitments to Singapore’s economy.”

Also Read: The power of networks: How David Blumberg built a thriving VC firm with a billion dollar portfolio

It’s important to note that many of Singapore’s headline corporate incentives such as the Pioneer Incentive, Development and Expansion Incentive, and Double Tax Deduction scheme apply primarily to startups or corporates that VC funds may invest in. These do not directly affect the taxation of licensed VC Fund Managers.

For fund managers themselves, the most relevant exemptions fall under Singapore’s Income Tax Act, specifically Sections 13H, 13R, 13O, and 13U:

• Section 13H (Venture capital funds incentive): Grants tax exemption on income from funds investing in unlisted Singapore-based companies, with fund managers of approved funds eligible for a 5% concessionary tax rate under the FMI (Fund Management Incentive) scheme.
• Section 13R (onshore fund exemption): Applies to Singapore-incorporated and resident funds, offering exemption on specified income from designated investments.
• Section 13O (enhanced tier fund exemption): Applies to onshore Singapore funds, granting tax exemptions on specified gains provided the fund is tax resident in Singapore, managed locally, and meets business spending conditions.
• Section 13U (enhanced tier fund incentive for large funds): Grants tax exemptions on income from designated investments like stocks, bonds, and derivatives, for funds managed in Singapore with a minimum size of SGD 50M.

Step-by-Step: How to launch your VC fund

Building a venture capital fund in Singapore requires more than securing capital; it’s about establishing credibility, structuring effectively, and operationalising your fund. Here’s a step-by-step roadmap:

Build your track record

Your track record reflects your past performance as an investor, including the types of investments you’ve made, why you made them, and the returns you’ve generated. Limited partners (LPs) evaluate key performance metrics such as:

• Total Value to Paid-In (TVPI)
• Multiple on Invested Capital (MOIC)
• Internal Rate of Return (IRR)

Also Read: VC deal-breakers: How anti-dilution clauses could sink your startup

If you’re a first-time fund manager without prior fund metrics, you can establish credibility through:

• Angel investing: Building a personal investment portfolio with smaller checks, typically under $100K.
• Special purpose vehicles (SPVs): Pooling capital for single-company deals, giving your network access to investment opportunities.
• Warehousing investments: Making early investments before officially forming your fund, then transferring them into the fund after close.

Partner with the right people

While it’s possible to launch a VC firm solo, partnering with someone whose skills complement your own strengthens credibility. For example, an operator with a COO background might team up with someone experienced in finance or technical expertise.

Choose the right structure

Most VC firms in Singapore establish a Private Limited Company (Pte. Ltd.) as their licensed management entity. The actual funds they manage are typically structured as Variable Capital Companies (VCCs), which provide flexibility in share issuance and redemption, as well as tax and regulatory advantages tailored for investment funds.

Fundraise and form the fund

Raising a VC fund involves pooling capital from external investors who become limited partners. This step is crucial in demonstrating your ability to attract backers who believe in your strategy.

Operationalise your fund

To run smoothly, your VC fund needs the right service providers. From fund administration and legal structuring to compliance support, outsourcing operational tasks ensures efficiency and investor confidence.

As PKF O’Connor Davies highlights, “A successful fund launch requires operational readiness, regulatory compliance and investor preparation. Taking the right steps early can set the foundation for long-term success.”

Final thoughts

Singapore has become the preferred launchpad for venture funds in Asia, offering clarity of regulation, world-class infrastructure, and unparalleled tax incentives. For new and experienced managers alike, it provides a powerful ecosystem to scale globally.

—

Editor’s note: e27 aims to foster thought leadership by publishing views from the community. Share your opinion by submitting an article, video, podcast, or infographic.

Enjoyed this read? Don’t miss out on the next insight. Join our WhatsApp channel for real-time drops.

Image courtesy: Canva

The post How to launch a venture capital fund in Singapore appeared first on e27.

Walk into just about any fintech or crypto conference, and one of the first things you can see is the gender imbalance. Rows of booths and panels, conversations all over the place — but women are still noticeably underrepresented. Even after almost two decades of working in financial markets, I often find myself in rooms where women can be counted on two hands.

This imbalance isn’t just about social fairness; it’s about missed business opportunities. It’s a gap that costs the industry real innovation and growth. Fintech is one of the fastest-developing sectors, both in Southeast Asia and globally, but by keeping women on the sidelines, it leaves enormous potential untapped. An estimated US$700 billion worth of potential, if we are to speak in more specific terms.

The good news is that things are gradually changing. The world is learning to recognise that women having equal space to lead and build in finance is not just possible but also beneficial for everyone involved.

Let me explain what I mean by that.

Why inclusion equals innovation

When women are at the table — as founders, executives, employees, and customers — financial products stand a real chance of getting better. Why? Because they can be designed with more people in mind and reflect real-world needs.

Take lending, for example. Women entrepreneurs often face unique challenges securing credit due to a lack of collateral or traditional financial histories. According to past reports by the World Economic Forum, 80 per cent of women-owned businesses with credit needs are either unserved or underserved by financial systems globally

This means that female founders are more interested than many others in developing more inclusive products and services. Drawing on personal experiences and needs, they can design solutions like alternative credit scoring or micro-lending platforms that stand to benefit not just women, but many other underserved markets.

Also Read: Why AI inclusion matters: Lessons from Mongolia’s Girls Code movement

At the same time, a team with more diverse representation can hedge better against risks. Members from different backgrounds are more likely to identify overlooked niches or spot potential drawbacks. All of which will help your business respond better to evolving consumer demands. In fintech, where the landscape shifts on a daily basis, that adaptability can make or break a company.

Southeast Asia: A region at a crossroads

Southeast Asia makes for a promising case in female inclusion because its fintech ecosystem is still young. Unlike the more mature markets, there is still room to shape the rules of the game, set new norms. This region has a unique opportunity to build gender diversity from the start instead of trying to “fix” things afterwards.

That said, there are still barriers that get in the way of female participation. Only nine per cent of fintech firms in Southeast Asia are founded or led by women, and the number of management positions held by them is limited to roughly 15 per cent. What’s worse, this number drops even further during the later growth stages, becoming closer to 10 per cent. 

Also Read: Inclusion starts at the top: Why listening beats moving fast in Southeast Asia

Curiously, Singapore shows comparatively better performance than the rest of the region. In 2024, women held 25 per cent of board seats in the top 100 locally listed companies. This figure is slightly up from 2023, so we can see that progress is happening, even if it is slow. 

But if we look in perspective, Asia already has a higher proportion of female leadership compared to some other regions. Take GCC countries, for example: in 2024, women there held only five per cent of board seats on average. The UAE had been the only major outlier, standing at 10.8 per cent. By comparison, the above-mentioned Singapore is already considerably ahead. 

And that gives us a glimpse of what the future can be. While far from perfect, Asia already has the momentum it could use to become a role model for inclusive growth in fintech. Whether or not it takes that opportunity — that’s the question now.

Using the ripple effect to overcome barriers

Of course, numbers alone aren’t the whole story. What women in financial markets really need are stories: real experiences, shared by women who have faced scepticism in male-dominated boardrooms but pushed through it. Many female workers currently feel like outsiders in finance because there are few role models they can look up to.

To change this, we need to pay greater attention to community support and culture-building. Young women entering the workforce need to see those who came before them — female CEOs, business leaders, investors. And by knowing that their predecessors succeeded, they can, in turn, find inspiration and believe in themselves.

Also Read: Built for all or built to fail? Why tech for social impact must start with inclusion

It’s for that very reason that I began my own initiative called Women Leading the Way a couple of years back. Even though I myself haven’t actually run into that many cases of toxic behaviour, it felt to me that I could help give voice to women who have. And so I set out to build a networking platform where female professionals could meet and talk openly, sharing their stories, struggles and successes.

And one thing I found inspirational is that, as the initiative gained popularity, it wasn’t just women who took part in it. Yes, many wrote to us with feedback saying that it felt heartening to see many of their own problems being openly discussed by others. But, even more interestingly, many men also joined the effort, talking about our platform with their acquaintances. Some of them would even recommend female colleagues who could take part in our discussions. 

It proved a simple but effective point: representation can create change. So long as there are people committed to speaking out and championing a cause, there will be those who will choose to follow. That kind of change won’t happen in a day, but it will happen so long as we keep pushing for it. 

—

Editor’s note: e27 aims to foster thought leadership by publishing views from the community. Share your opinion by submitting an article, video, podcast, or infographic.

Enjoyed this read? Don’t miss out on the next insight. Join our WhatsApp channel for real-time drops.

Image courtesy: Canva

The post Southeast Asia’s fintech can help set the standard for gender inclusion appeared first on e27.

Can small and mid-sized firms in Southeast Asia genuinely trust AI to support their growth? The quick answer: yes — if it’s applied thoughtfully.

Across the region, SMEs are already adopting AI to build customer confidence, streamline operations, and sharpen marketing. A 2024 Microsoft–IDC survey found that 79 per cent of Southeast Asian SMEs using AI reported faster decisions and stronger customer engagement.

For founders and brand managers wrestling with visibility or inconsistent leads, AI is no longer a buzzword — it’s a working tool to grow with greater intelligence.

Why AI matters for SMEs in Southeast Asia

• SMEs account for 97 per cent of all businesses in the region.
• Customers now expect personalised and round-the-clock service, areas where AI performs well.
• Forward-thinking firms are using AI not simply to cut costs but to earn trust at scale.

From chatbots to customer confidence

Today’s AI assistants handle FAQs, bookings, and product suggestions with accuracy.

• Example: A Singapore food and beverage chain uses AI chat to manage 80 per cent of reservations, freeing staff to focus on diners.
• Tip: Keep a human handover option so clients don’t feel abandoned when AI reaches its limit.

Personalisation that feels genuine

AI now lets SMEs deliver tailored messages and product offers at scale.

• Example: An Indonesian e-commerce start-up uses AI to create product bundles, lifting average basket size by 25 per cent.
• Stat: 63 per cent of customers will stop buying from brands that fail to personalise communication.
• Practical step: Start simple — apply AI insights to email or ad segmentation.

Also Read: Singapore mandates AI literacy for public servants: A blueprint for the future of governance

Smarter operations, human oversight

From invoicing to scheduling, AI trims time off repetitive tasks.

• Benefit: Quicker delivery builds credibility with clients.
• Caution: Over-automation can erode confidence. Transparency around AI use reassures both teams and customers.

Building trust in a black-box era

People often don’t understand how AI makes choices.

• SMEs can lead by being open about AI practices.
• Case: A Malaysian fintech reassures clients by disclosing how its AI credit checks are reviewed.
• My view: “Trust is the currency of AI adoption. Without it, even the smartest tools won’t win loyalty.”

How SMEs can begin today

• Choose one task to pilot (chat, email, or scheduling).
• Opt for SME-friendly tools (HubSpot AI, Zoho AI, Jasper, ChatGPT).
• Set clear guardrails — maintain human review, protect data, and communicate openly.

The takeaway

AI is not replacing SMEs — it’s reshaping how they can grow more intelligently. By blending technology with transparency, small businesses in Southeast Asia can deepen relationships, scale faster, and stand out in crowded markets.

For business, the real question isn’t “Should we use AI?” but “How can we use it to build trust today?”

—

Editor’s note: e27 aims to foster thought leadership by publishing views from the community. Share your opinion by submitting an article, video, podcast, or infographic.

Enjoyed this read? Don’t miss out on the next insight. Join our WhatsApp channel for real-time drops.

Image courtesy: Cash Macanaya

The post Trust, tech, and transformation: How SMEs in Southeast Asia are using AI to grow smarter appeared first on e27.

After a dismal August that saw investor sentiment sink to one of its lowest points in recent memory, Southeast Asia’s startup funding landscape staged an impressive comeback in September 2025, signalling a renewed wave of optimism across the region’s tech ecosystem.

According to Tracxn, total funding soared to US$231 million in September, a 125.6 per cent month-on-month surge from August’s modest US$84 million. The rebound also represents a 58.7 per cent year-on-year increase compared to September 2024, marking a strong sign of recovery after a mid-year funding lull.

A dramatic turnaround

In August, the region’s startups endured a steep funding drop– down 65.1 per cent from a year earlier and 76.4 per cent lower than July 2025. Investors tightened their purse strings amid persistent macroeconomic uncertainty and slower deal cycles, resulting in only US$84 million raised across 22 rounds.

Also Read: Why Southeast Asia’s consumer-led growth story has officially ended

By contrast, September saw fewer but larger and more confident bets, with 10 rounds accounting for nearly three times the capital deployed just a month prior. The funding surge suggests that investors are regaining conviction in Southeast Asia’s long-term growth potential, particularly in sectors showing resilience and scalability.

Investor confidence returns

September’s upswing was driven by several notable transactions and a resurgence in activity among regional and global venture capital firms.

Gobi Partners backed GRVT, Paspalis invested in RushOwl, and Rebright Partners supported Dat Bike, while the report also named Further among the month’s most active investors.

In contrast, August’s smaller-scale activity was dominated by firms like Peak XV Partners, Wavemaker Growth, and Square Peg Ventures, which focused on targeted deals with high-potential startups such as TazaPay, Graas, and ZUZU.

Market sentiment: From caution to confidence

The back-to-back months tell a clear story of a market in motion–from caution to cautious optimism. August’s slump reflected risk aversion and tighter liquidity, but September’s rebound points to strategic recalibration rather than retreat.

Investors appear to be shifting from defensive postures to selective, conviction-driven funding, prioritising startups that demonstrate strong fundamentals and clear paths to profitability.

Looking ahead

While one strong month doesn’t guarantee a sustained turnaround, September’s performance may mark an inflexion point for the region’s tech funding climate. The combination of renewed investor activity, larger ticket sizes, and improving sentiment suggests Southeast Asia’s innovation economy is regaining momentum after a turbulent year.

Also Read: SEA funding wiped out: Back to 2016 levels after historic slump

If current trends continue, Q4 could solidify 2025’s reputation as a year of correction–and recovery–for the region’s startup ecosystem.

The post Southeast Asia funding surges 125 per cent in Sept, reversing August slump appeared first on e27.

The recent victory of Sanae Takaichi in the Liberal Democratic Party leadership race marks a pivotal moment for Japan, positioning her to step into the role of the country’s first female prime minister by mid-October. Investors caught off guard by this outcome quickly adjusted their positions, leading to notable shifts across Japanese markets. The yen weakened significantly, closing above 150 against the US dollar, while Japanese government bonds faced pressure and equities surged in response.

Takaichi’s strong advocacy for expansive fiscal and monetary policies fuelled this immediate reaction, as markets anticipated a push toward reflationary measures. Her focus on sectors such as defence, nuclear energy, and consumer support promises to drive targeted investments, potentially invigorating economic growth in areas that have long been overdue for attention.

From my perspective, this development injects a fresh dynamism into Japan’s economy, which has grappled with stagnation for years. A leader willing to embrace bold stimulus could finally break the cycle of timid reforms, though the path ahead carries risks that demand careful navigation.

Markets reacted swiftly to Takaichi’s win, reflecting a broader repricing that favoured equities over safer assets. The Nikkei 225 climbed 1.9 per cent on Friday, reaching an all-time high amid a rally in tech and semiconductor shares across Asia. Investors now expect further upside in Japanese stocks, particularly in sectors aligned with Takaichi’s priorities.

Defence and nuclear stocks stand out as prime beneficiaries, given her strategic emphasis on bolstering national security and energy independence. Infrastructure plays and domestic demand-oriented companies also look poised for gains, as her policies aim to stimulate household spending and support small caps.

Exporters benefit from the yen’s depreciation, which enhances their competitiveness abroad. Banks, however, faced initial selling pressure, as expectations for a Bank of Japan rate hike in the fourth quarter diminished under the assumption of Takaichi’s influence.

Yet, this dip presents an opportunity, in my view, because her reflationary approach could boost loan growth, and the central bank might still raise rates to manage volatility in the yen and bond markets. Overall, this sector rotation highlights a market that is betting on policy-driven growth, where winners emerge from areas tied to fiscal expansion.

Macro risks loom large in this scenario, tempering the enthusiasm. The yen’s weakness raises concerns about imported inflation and currency stability, particularly given Japan’s debt-to-GDP ratio, which exceeds 260 per cent. Such high leverage amplifies worries over fiscal sustainability if expansive policies lead to overshooting.

The Bank of Japan may be compelled to hike front-end rates, although many now anticipate a delay into 2026 amid persistent inflation and negative real yields. Policy uncertainty adds another layer, as Takaichi’s administration must balance bold promises with execution.

Investors should monitor how her government addresses these challenges, as any misstep could erode confidence. In my opinion, while the immediate rally feels justified, the long-term success hinges on disciplined implementation. Japan has seen reformist leaders falter before, so Takaichi’s ability to deliver tangible results will determine whether this surge sustains or fizzles.

Also Read: How marketers can connect with APAC’s 450 million young gamers

Shifting to the investment thesis, the stimulus-led upside appears compelling for Japanese equities in the near term, particularly in sectors aligned with Takaichi’s agenda. A risk-adjusted strategy favours reflation beneficiaries, with appropriate hedges to mitigate volatility. The market places its bets on her delivering bold policy changes, but execution risk remains a critical factor. Fiscal discipline will prove essential to avoid exacerbating debt issues.

From where I stand, this moment offers a buying opportunity for those optimistic about Japan’s potential under new leadership. The rally could extend if Takaichi assembles a cohesive cabinet and pushes through her agenda swiftly, drawing in foreign capital seeking exposure to Asia’s third-largest economy.

On the global front, risk sentiment stayed muted due to the ongoing US government shutdown, as the Senate repeatedly failed to pass a funding bill with lawmakers sticking to their stances. This impasse delayed key data releases, including September’s non-farm payrolls, which investors awaited on Friday but never received.

In contrast, Sanae Takaichi’s LDP win captured headlines, highlighting a stark difference in political momentum between the two nations. Wall Street closed mixed on Friday, with the Dow Jones up 0.51 per cent, the S&P 500 edging higher by 0.01 per cent, and the Nasdaq dipping 0.28 per cent as the tech rally paused. US Treasury yields climbed despite services data falling short of expectations, with the 10-year yield rising 3.7 basis points to 4.119 per cent and the two-year yield also up 3.7 basis points to 3.576 per cent.

The US dollar index slipped 0.1 per cent to 97.72, while gold advanced 0.8 per cent to 3886 dollars per ounce. Brent crude gained 0.7 per cent to 64.53 dollars per barrel, buoyed by President Trump’s warnings to Hamas regarding his plan to end the Gaza war. Asian equities ended higher on Friday, driven by tech and semiconductor stocks, although early trading on Monday showed mixed results. US equity futures indicate a higher open, suggesting some resilience amid uncertainty.

Also Read: From idea to impact: How midlifers can use AI to turn inspiration into marketing content

Looking ahead, the week features speeches from Federal Reserve officials, including Governor Stephen Miran on Wednesday and Chair Jerome Powell on Thursday. Delays in US data persist, affecting August trade figures, initial jobless claims, and the September federal budget balance.

These events could shape market expectations, particularly around monetary policy. The US shutdown exacerbates economic fog, pushing investors toward safe havens like gold while pressuring equities. Yet the interplay with Japan’s developments creates intriguing cross-currents, where Asian stimulus might offset some Western headwinds.

Turning to the crypto market, it rose 1.04 per cent over the last 24 hours, building on its 7-day gain of 9.07 per cent and 30-day advance of 10.76 per cent. Several factors drove this momentum, starting with macro tailwinds from the US shutdown and weak jobs data, which heightened bets on Federal Reserve rate cuts.

Bitcoin surged 12 per cent last week following the shutdown and ADP jobs report showing a drop of 32K against expectations of plus 50K. Markets now see a 98 per cent chance of a cut by October 29, according to TokenPost. Gold’s 48 per cent year-to-date rise mirrored crypto’s rally as a hedge against uncertainty.

The high correlation between crypto and equities, at 0.82 over seven days versus the Nasdaq-100, amplified these gains as traders shifted into risk assets. Investors should watch Powell’s October 29 speech and FOMC minutes for insights into the rate path. This environment favors crypto as a speculative play, where dovish signals could propel further upside.

Binance’s ecosystem provided another bullish pillar, with the exchange achieving 2.55 trillion dollars in monthly futures volume, a 2025 high, and capturing 87 per cent of Bitcoin taker buy volume per CMC. Its new AI-powered Trading Signals feature boosted activity in the BNB ecosystem, lifting BNB by 18.42 per cent weekly.

Binance’s liquidity depth, holding 41.1 per cent global market share, and institutional tools draw in capital, fostering network effects for its token and partners. This dominance reinforces confidence, making Binance a linchpin in the market’s resilience. I see this as a sign of maturing infrastructure in crypto, where platforms like Binance evolve from mere exchanges to comprehensive ecosystems, attracting serious investors amid broader volatility.

Altcoin developments added a mixed but largely positive influence. Ethereum climbed 9.96 per cent weekly, approaching 4500 dollars ahead of December’s Fusaka upgrade. Solana’s Alpenglow upgrade, reducing block finality by 40 per cent, spurred 13 per cent weekly gains.

Also Read: The future of AI and moral ambition in Southeast Asia

However, Bitcoin dominance increased to 58.55 per cent as traders secured profits from alts. These upgrades sustain narratives around altcoins, though Bitcoin’s seven-day RSI of 87.4 indicates overbought territory. The key question revolves around Ethereum’s post-Fusaka momentum, especially as staking yields compress. From my standpoint, altcoins offer diversification in a bull run, but their reliance on upgrades highlights the sector’s innovation-driven nature, which can yield outsized returns when executed well.

In conclusion, today’s market dynamics blend opportunity with caution. Japan’s shift under Takaichi promises stimulus-fuelled growth, potentially lifting equities and sectors like defence and nuclear, while the yen’s weakness and debt concerns warrant vigilance.

Globally, the US shutdown clouds data and sentiment, yet it bolsters rate-cut expectations that benefit risk assets, including crypto. The crypto surge, driven by macro bets, Binance’s strength, and altcoin catalysts, reflects a Goldilocks scenario for bulls. Nonetheless, resistance at Bitcoin’s 125K level and potential Fed hawkishness could prompt pullbacks.

I believe the overarching trend leans positive for investors willing to embrace calculated risks, as political and economic shifts create fertile ground for gains. Takaichi’s leadership could herald a new era for Japan, complementing crypto’s resilience in uncertain times, but success depends on policy delivery and central bank responses. This interconnected landscape demands agility, where staying informed on speeches and upgrades will separate winners from the rest.

—

Editor’s note: e27 aims to foster thought leadership by publishing views from the community. Share your opinion by submitting an article, video, podcast, or infographic.

Enjoyed this read? Don’t miss out on the next insight. Join our WhatsApp channel for real-time drops.

Image courtesy: Canva

The post From Tokyo to crypto: How political shifts and policy bets are reshaping global markets appeared first on e27.

In this panel discussion at Echelon Singapore 2025, the speakers discussed the changes in cybersecurity since the use of AI became highly popularised. It touched points such as signs that organisations have significantly underestimated the risks, which included not realising that threats can affect any industry and are not limited to banking or finance. It also discussed how bots can be a potential threat, given the fact that 37 per cent of internet traffic today is of bots.

It stresses on the importance of having the right infrastructure and protocol to respond to threats—especially in the age of AI.

The post Echelon Singapore 2025 – Cybersecurity at core: Building a resilient and secure digital frontier in the age of AI appeared first on e27.