BRAVE Southeast Asia Tech: Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines, Thailand & Malaysia Startups, Founders & Venture Capital VC (English)

Gita Sjahrir, Head of Investment at BNI Ventures, and Jeremy Au discussed: 1. Trump 2028 Tariffs: With Trump’s return to the presidency and Republican dominance in the Senate, House, and Supreme Court, the stage is set for new tariffs on Chinese imports. This is likely to redirect manufacturing to Southeast Asia, positioning countries like Vietnam and Indonesia as key beneficiaries, particularly in sectors such as electronics and textiles. However, this move will also lead to an influx of low-cost Chinese exports into Southeast Asia, challenging local markets and putting pressure on SMEs. Concurrently, rising US labor costs fueled by stricter immigration policies are driving American companies to ramp up automation while also making Southeast Asia an attractive hub for labor-intensive industries. In aggregate, the region's business mix is likely to move from local SMEs & conglomerates to more US and China MNCs. 2. iPhone Ban Protectionism vs. Globalization: Indonesia has imposed device manufacturing local content requirements, thus leading to a ban on the Apple iPhone 16 and Google Pixel. While these policies provide temporary leverage, Gita noted that sustainable growth requires more than protectionist measures, Indonesia needs to build private-sector capacity and improve its business environment. China manufacturers are also building more local joint-venture partnerships to comply with Indonesia's proposed 200% anti-China import tariffs. This is similar to Japan’s relocation of factories to Southeast Asia during the 1970s and 1980s in response to US trade barriers. In contrast, Singapore continues to keep borders open to to Chinese and global capital - with the goal of becoming the regional talent hub vs. Hong Kong. 3. ASEAN Unity & Peace: Diplomacy across the region is vital to maintain regional stability and cohesion to address external pressures. Jeremy and Gita praised ASEAN’s ability to maintain peace despite diverse political systems and cultures. This multi-party relational resilience has underpinned decades of peace and economic growth since the Vietnam War, even in an era marked by rising protectionist policies. Remarkably, they noted how ASEAN leaders continue to come together annually for a group photo and joint communiqué — a symbolic gesture to cooperation among 700 million people across the region’s vastly different nations, cultures and languages. Jeremy and Gita also talked about Indonesia’s EV & nickel battery market potential, Malaysia’s new proactive foreign direct investment approach, and growth vs. redistribution-focused economic policies. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/trump-and-indonesia-tariff Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/trump-and-indonesia-tariff-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/trump-and-indonesia-tariff-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/trump-and-indonesia-tariff-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Nika.eco! Reach out to [email protected] if you are a geospatial data scientist or climate researcher who is interested to partner on a pilot or research opportunities

Shiyan Koh, Managing Partner of Hustle Fund, and ​​Jeremy Au discussed: 1. Trump Win vs. Southeast Asia Trade: Trump’s 2024 landslide election victory across the White House, Senate and House of Representatives, will reshape Southeast Asia’s economic landscape. His proposed “global 10% tariff” on all US imports and a targeted 60% tariff on Chinese goods may severely disrupt Southeast Asia’s trade flows. Singapore could face challenges for export-driven industries and its role as a key transit hub for US-China trade. Chinese-funded products manufactured in Southeast Asia—such as solar cells produced in Vietnam— may now face similar tariffs as those directly from China. Biden-era “reverse CFIUS” restrictions, which limit US investment in Chinese firms across sectors such as AI and advanced manufacturing, coupled with Trump's new China hawk administration will further accelerate American LPs and MNCs to redirect foreign direct investment (FDI) towards Southeast Asia instead of China. 2. China Talent Flows: Known as the “Delaware of Asia,” Singapore stands to benefit as both US and Chinese firms seek a neutral and stable base for regional Asia operations (versus Hong Kong). As US-China tensions deter many Chinese families and professionals from pursuing American education and career paths, Singapore has become an appealing alternative. Singapore, a nation built by immigrants, has long maintained a social contract that includes national service (NS) obligations as a cornerstone of fostering social cohesion among its diverse population. However, the country has historically faced complex challenges in determining which types of immigrants to accept, how best to integrate them into society and to improve income inequality. Jeremy shared a story about a former Thai employee who had to leave America after her H-1B visa renewal was denied during Trump’s first term, illustrating how Trump’s immigration policies could drive talent to return to the regional tech ecosystem. 3. Silicon Valley Divided: Opinions remain split, with Trump’s pro-deregulation stance sparking optimism in some corners, evidenced by a surge in Bitcoin prices and positive reactions from equity markets. Supporters point to potential gains for sectors like crypto and tech equities, alongside corporate tax cuts that help maintain profits, boost R&D, and provide attractive exit opportunities for venture capitalists. Concerns were raised that while deregulation under Trump may fuel market growth, higher tariffs could exacerbate economic disparities and be the wrong solution for the middle class. Jeremy and Shiyan also talked about how China exporters like BYD electric cars will now increasingly focus on Southeast Asia markets, Singapore’s low birth rate like Japan and the growing number of startups building digital AI companions. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/trump-win-vs-se-asia Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/trump-win-vs-se-asia-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/trump-win-vs-se-asia-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/trump-win-vs-se-asia-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Nika.eco! Reach out to [email protected] if you are a geospatial data scientist or climate researcher who is interested to partner on a pilot or research opportunities

Charles Ormiston, Founding Partner of Bain Southeast Asia, and Jeremy Au discussed: 1. Founding Bain Southeast Asia: Charles established Bain's office in Singapore, which initially faced major skepticism from Bain’s leadership who favored Hong Kong as the regional hub. Believing Singapore’s strategic location to be better suited for Southeast Asia, Charles stood firm - even at the risk of his career. His bet paid off when the Singapore office flourished and became the regional leader. He pursued a unconventional hiring strategy for that time: prioritizing local talent over international hires and avoiding expatriate perks like housing allowances. This talent core cultivated a leadership pipeline deeply committed to the region’s long-term growth, with key figures like Edmund Lin rising from the office's second employee to Chairman today. 2. Reengineer Your Career: After a health wake-up call, he decided to hand over to Till Vestring and move to an advisory role. His successor led Bain to new heights by expanding to a regional footprint with Bangkok, Jakarta and other offices. After a 14-month break working with nonprofits, Charles returned to focus on "transformation" projects which aligned with his strengths. This pivot allowed him to achieve a new "capstone" level of career impact and personal satisfaction. 3. Angsana Council on China vs. USA Rivalry: Charles co-founded the think-tank with Peng T. Ong of Monk's Hill Ventures to improve global understanding of Southeast Asia’s high-growth markets. Their research is powered by prominent members like former Indonesian trade minister Gita Wirjawan and former Singaporean foreign minister George Yeo and partnership with Bain & DBS Bank. Charles shared how many business and political leaders had once underestimated China's ability to rise as a global innovation leader. ASEAN countries must navigate the increasingly complex global rivalry in order to maximize benefits and reduce risk from this trade & research decoupling. Charles and Jeremy also discussed being inspired by in-person meetings with Lee Kuan Yew and Bain's Chairwoman Orit Gadiesh, how consulting has evolved in the era of hybrid work, and his personal passion for cycling. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/charles-ormiston Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/charles-ormiston-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/charles-ormiston-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/charles-ormiston-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Nika.eco! Reach out to [email protected] if you are a geospatial data scientist or climate researcher who is interested to partner on a pilot or research opportunities

Jeremy Au and Adriel Yong discussed whether Southeast Asian founders should move to Silicon Valley, and why "sea turtle" professionals are returning from America (and China) to Singapore, Indonesia and Vietnam. San Francisco and New York are global tech talent vortexes, where non-American founders are attracted to their deep VC funding pools and a multi-generational legacy of founder support since the 1950s, e.g. the "father of VC" Georges Doriot of America Research & Development Corporation (ARDC). America's large ecosystem also holds transformative appeal for deep tech and frontier tech founders, as well as higher pricing power for both SaaS and consumer brands. In contrast, Singapore has the same GDP per capita (US$88K) as America, with a better quality of life for families looking for healthcare, public safety, education and housing. Southeast Asian diaspora returning to their home countries should be realistic about Asia's higher number of working hours compared to America and EU, fragmented markets, regulatory challenges and less mature economies. Savvy international founders have a "time machine" mindset: visualizing the country's future in 10-20 years, seeing the industry as it actually is and then building the companies that make sense for this decade and geography. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/silicon-valley-talent-vortex Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/silicon-valley-talent-vortex-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/silicon-valley-talent-vortex-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/silicon-valley-talent-vortex-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Nika.eco! Reach out to [email protected] if you are a geospatial data scientist or climate researcher who is interested to partner on a pilot or research opportunities

Adrian Tan, Author of “No More Bosses” & Chief Marketing Strategist at Marketing Sumo, and Jeremy Au discussed: 1. Laid-Off To HR Founder: Adrian’s career in HR began as he navigated the volatile job market of the early 2000s. After layoffs from tech companies during the dotcom bubble and another setback in 2003 with the SARS epidemic, he sought greater stability by starting his own recruitment business in 2004. Over the next 11 years, he grew this business through multiple economic cycles, worked hundred-hour weeks, and learned on the job. He reflected on a missed opportunity during a lucrative growth phase to scale his business, which he now views as a turning point that could have changed his career path. This built his resilience and industry insights, which later shaped his journey as an independent HR consultant. 2. Writing "No More Bosses": Adrian’s new book, No More Bosses: The Journey to Sustainable Self-Employment, draws from his own pivot to freelancing. He received a LinkedIn message from a Penguin editor, which he initially believed to be a scam. He wrote the book to inspire mid-career professionals, especially in high-cost cities like Singapore, to explore independence. Real-life case studies include Nancy Lai who launched a D2C baby products business, showing that solopreneurship can be successful with strategic planning. 3. Solopreneur Work-Life Challenges: Adrian shared the ups and downs of self-employment, noting that while independence provides autonomy, it demands discipline and structure. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he struggled with maintaining boundaries as he worked from his dining table, often working late into the evening. To maintain work-life balance, he set smartwatch reminders like “World’s Greatest Dad” at 7pm to ensure he prioritized family time. However, he stressed that the goal in self-employment is not just income, but optimizing time and flexibility, which he values more than the financial stability offered by corporate roles. Jeremy and Adrian also talked about the importance of fully outlining chapters before beginning to write, the role of perseverance in professional development, and how personal branding landed him multiple opportunities. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/adrian-tan Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/adrian-tan-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/adrian-tan-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/adrian-tan-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Nika.eco! Reach out to [email protected] if you are a geospatial data scientist or climate researcher who is interested to partner on a pilot or research opportunities

Gita Sjahrir, Head of Investment at BNI Ventures, and Jeremy Au discussed: 1. 109 Member 48 Ministry Cabinet Coalition: With the inauguration on October 20, 2024, President Prabowo Subianto expanded the cabinet from 34 to 48 ministries, the largest since 1966. Prabowo's coalition-building strategy is to accommodate political allies and unify the seven-party coalition behind him. They drew comparisons to Germany’s coalition politics, emphasizing the importance of coordination between Indonesia’s national and regional leaders for effective governance. 2. Temu Ban, TikTok & Bukalapak: In early October 2024, Indonesia banned Chinese social commerce platform Temu, similar to TikTok Shop which then had to acquire Tokopedia. The Indonesian government also requested Apple and Google to block the Temu app to prevent local downloads. Other nations, including the United States and EU, are scrutinizing Chinese exporter practices, with the US tightening tax exemptions on low-cost imports in 2023. Gita explained that while such protectionism shields MSMEs, Indonesia’s core issues (e.g., complex bureaucracy, high business costs, lack of raw materials and a multi-year backlog for trademarks) remain unaddressed. She argued that easing these foundational barriers would create a fairer, more sustainable advantage for local businesses, rather than just temporary protection from foreign competition. 3. VC Investments: Indonesia has already attracted interest in green joint ventures (JVs), particularly with China. Jeremy highlighted MAKA Motors, founded by former GoJek CTO Raditya Wibowo, as a local player advancing EV production, while Gita mentioned Toba’s push for renewable energy. They underscored the cultural importance of home ownership, noting that many Indonesians aspire to own land despite its often low financial returns, which drives prop-tech startup Rukita. Rekosistem is also a key startup addressing waste management in Indonesia’s growing urban areas. They also discussed the pressures faced by Indonesia’s “sandwich generation,” who often support both aging parents and their own families, and how these dynamics shape housing affordability and socio-economic mobility. Jeremy and Gita also talked about the film “Home Sweet Loan, which explores Indonesians’ struggle with housing affordability, the influx of green investments into EV battery production and the regulatory challenges surrounding the rise of online gambling among youth. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/prabowo-48-ministry-cabinet Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/prabowo-48-ministry-cabinet-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/prabowo-48-ministry-cabinet-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/prabowo-48-ministry-cabinet-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Nika.eco! Reach out to [email protected] if you are a geospatial data scientist or climate researcher who is interested to partner on a pilot or research opportunities

Jeremy Au explored the evolution of technology marketing and how marketers have adapted to communicate complex innovations effectively. He began by referencing sci-fi writer Arthur C. Clarke’s 1974 “crazy” prediction about how their room-sized computers would eventually shrink to the size of briefcases and that people would eventually be able to work from anywhere in the world. Early software marketers like WordStar focused on explaining and promoting “groundbreaking” features, such as moving text blocks—capabilities that were previously unimaginable with typewriters. Jeremy emphasized that while technology continues to advance, the core human desires for status, security, and convenience remain unchanged. Companies like Apple, with products like the augmented reality Vision Pro and Apple Watch, and Dyson have mastered the art of blending functionality with premium status to appeal to early adopters and affluent consumers. He concluded by noting that despite the shifting landscape of technology -from floppy disks to cryptocurrency and AI companions - the fundamental marketing strategy endures: simplify the message and prioritize solving immediate consumer needs, a timeless approach evident in both historic and modern claims of achieving 10x disruptive improvements vs. the pain of the status quo. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/arthur-clarke-1974-prediction Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/arthur-clarke-1974-prediction-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/arthur-clarke-1974-prediction-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/arthur-clarke-1974-prediction-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Nika.eco! Reach out to [email protected] if you are a geospatial data scientist or climate researcher who is interested to partner on a pilot or research opportunities

Tina Amper, Strategic Director of Geeks on a Beach, and Jeremy Au discussed: 1. Burnout to Community Leader: Tina shared her experience of migrating from the Philippines with an engineering degree from the University of San Carlos to California’s booming tech industry in the 1990s. She excelled in product marketing and business development roles, but ultimately burned out after years of travel and high-intensity work. By 2010, her mother's declining health prompted her to take a sabbatical and return to her hometown Cebu, which was being transformed by the growing business process outsourcing (BPO) industry. This proved to be fertile ground for her exploration and cultivation of a thriving local tech community. 2. Geeks on a Beach: Geeks on a Beach (GOAB) launched in 2013 and started as a casual idea between Earl Valencia, cofounder of IdeaSpace and QBO, and Paul Pajo, a Filipino tech evangelist, to create a tech conference blending work and leisure on the beach. With participants ranging from 400-500 people annually, GOAB has become a key platform for fostering collaborations between startups, investors, and business leaders. Tina emphasized the importance of support from government bodies like the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT). 3. 12M Filipino Diaspora Reverse Culture Shock: Tina's return to her motherland after living in the US involved overcoming reverse culture shock while also reconnecting with her roots. She shared her advice for the 12 million strong Filipino diaspora considering a return home. She discussed how she personally found her purpose by contributing to the local tech community through initiatives like TechTalks.ph. Jeremy and Tina also explored various community archetypes of lurkers vs. champions, paid membership communities vs. casual tech meetups and financial sustainability strategies. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/tina-amper Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/tina-amper-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/tina-amper-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/tina-amper-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts You don't want to miss Geeks On A Beach, the unique premier startup conference in the region! Join us from November 13 to 15, 2024, at JPark Island Resort in Mactan, Cebu. This event brings together tech enthusiasts, investors, and entrepreneurs for three days of workshops, talks, and networking. Register at geeksonabeach.com

Shiyan Koh, Managing Partner of Hustle Fund, and ​​Jeremy Au discussed: 1. Singapore Vetoes Allianz $4.4B Insurer Acquisition: They discussed the Singapore government’s veto of the NTUC Income and Allianz merger, primarily over concerns of an undisclosed plan for $2B capital withdrawal post-merger. This case illustrated the delicate balance required between pursuing financial strategies and adhering to a social mission, especially in a cooperative structure transitioning to a corporatized entity. 2. NTUC 1961 History & Income Cooperative Mandate: They expanded on the broader historical role of National Trade Unions Congress with the People’s Action Party since 1961, vs. the now-defunct leftist Singapore Association of Trade Unions (SATU). The central workers' union is the parent organization of NTUC Enterprise, which is a holding entity of multiple cooperatives and mission-based corporations like NTUC Fairprice (supermarkets), First Campus (childcare) and Income (insurance). They referenced analysis on other successful single-country insurer cooperatives benchmarks from former NTUC Enterprise & NTUC Income CEO Tan Suee Chieh. 3. Trump vs. Kamala Impact on Southeast Asia: Jeremy and Shiyan debated how the US election’s potential outcomes could lead to dramatically different White House policies on free trade, capital gains and China relations - leading to significant ripple effects on Singapore & Southeast Asia. This highlights the deep interconnectivity of American political decisions with regional economic outcomes. Jeremy and Shiyan also touched on the impact of US interest rate cuts on global markets, the acceleration of Chinese companies entering Southeast Asia, and Singapore's higher number of work hours vs. America and the EU. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/singapore-vetoes-allianz-acquisition Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/singapore-vetoes-allianz-acquisition-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/singapore-vetoes-allianz-acquisition-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/singapore-vetoes-allianz-acquisition-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Nika.eco! Reach out to [email protected] if you are a geospatial data scientist or climate researcher who is interested to partner on a pilot or research opportunities

Jeremy Au breaks down the "David vs. Goliath" dynamics of startups challenging industry giants. Startups face unique marketing challenges but can thrive by focusing on experimentation and innovation, creating entirely new market categories. Just like the rise of oat milk and nicotine vapes, disruptive marketing turned once-unknown products into billion-dollar industries. He covers the case study of Southeast Asian unicorns Grab and Gojek who leveraged their agility to outmaneuver Uber and local taxi fleets in Singapore and Indonesia. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/david-vs-goliath Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/david-vs-goliath-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/david-vs-goliath-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/david-vs-goliath-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Nika.eco! Reach out to [email protected] if you are a geospatial data scientist or climate researcher who is interested to partner on a pilot or research opportunities

Michael Chua, Award-Winning Actor, and Jeremy Au discussed: 1. Consultant to Award-Winning Actor at Age 50: Michael had a a long and successful career as a technology consultant traveling across Europe. At the age of 50, he was talent-scouted through a Facebook photo to become an actor. His curiosity exploring a new creative field quickly blossomed into a successful career, with over 400 acting credits and several awards, including Best Actor and Best Film at the Singapore International Film Festival. He shared his experience learning to act in films like Ilo Ilo which won the prestigious Camera d'Or award at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival and the 50th Golden Horse Awards in 2014. He also discussed his experience acting in popular YouTube shows like Titan Academy led by JianHao (7.5 million subscribers). 2. AI Disrupting Filmmaking: Michael spoke about AI’s productivity improvements, e.g. LED backdrops replacing traditional green screens and automating processes such as color grading and sound editing. However, he emphasized that AI avatars of actors are truly disruptive, which raises the bar for all human actors. He warned that mid-tier actors who can't convincingly convey emotion may be replaced by AI, while top-tier performers will continue to thrive as their unique human qualities become more valuable. He also reflected on how the need for authenticity in performances becomes even more critical in the director’s role, especially in a world increasingly swamped by AI-generated content. 3. Climbing the 'Third Mountain': Michael described his transition from consulting to acting as climbing the "second mountain" and to directing as the most difficult "third mountain." Directing requires a broader skill set, balancing logistics with creative vision. His earlier career in technology consulting prepared him for this, giving him the ability to manage large, complex projects. As a director, he now oversees not just the actors but also the entire production, from lighting and sound to camera work and set design. Michael is determined to create films that resonate deeply with audiences while balancing the technical complexities of filmmaking. Jeremy and Michael also talked about the pressures of privacy that come with being a public figure, the difference between influencers and actors, and the pros and cons of staying in Southeast Asia to tell culturally specific stories (vs. moving to Hollywood). Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/michael-chua Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/michael-chua-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/michael-chua-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/michael-chua-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Nika.eco! Reach out to [email protected] if you are a geospatial data scientist or climate researcher who is interested to partner on a pilot or research opportunities

Jianggan Li, Founder & CEO of Momentum Works, and Jeremy Au discussed: 1. US$1.1 Trillion Monetary Stimulus: Jianggan and Jeremy examined China’s recent monetary measures (equivalent to 6% of nominal GDP) boosting consumer confidence and stabilizing the housing and stock markets. The Politburo launched a $114 billion lending pool to support stock buybacks by asset managers and insurers, lowered the policy interest rate by 0.2% and reduced mortgage interest rates by 0.5%. They speculated that fiscal stimulus, including broader consumption voucher programs like the $72 million initiative in Shanghai, is likely to follow. These efforts are intended to stabilize China’s real estate market and restore confidence after a prolonged period of economic slowdown. 2. Temu & Shein vs. USA De Minimis Tariffs: They focused on the de minimis rule, which currently allows imports under $800 to enter the US tariff-free. Jianggan explained how Chinese platforms like Temu (Pinduoduo) and Shein have benefited from this loophole by shipping small goods directly to American consumers. The Biden administration’s efforts to close this loophole will harm low-income American consumers, reducing welfare benefits by $12-14 billion USD. Chinese exporters, particularly smaller ones, may also face challenges, though large platforms are adapting by increasing inventory stored in the US to mitigate this new tariff. 3. YouTube & Shopee Anti-TikTok Shop Alliance: They discussed China’s growing influence on Southeast Asia’s cross-border trade, with Vietnam emerging as a key hub for Chinese companies. Warehouses along the Vietnam-China border are facilitating live-stream sales directly to Vietnamese consumers. Additionally, the conversation touched on YouTube’s partnership with Shopee, which is seen as a strategic move to counter TikTok Shop. This partnership is expected to expand across Southeast Asia, with Indonesia positioned as a critical battleground in the e-commerce space. Jeremy and Jianggan also touched on other relevant topics, including the impact of US interest rate cuts on global markets, the role of the Chinese Yuan in export competitiveness, and Vietnam’s strategy to navigating the USA-China rivalry. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/china-monetary-stimulus Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/china-monetary-stimulus-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/china-monetary-stimulus-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/china-monetary-stimulus-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Nika.eco! Reach out to [email protected] if you are a geospatial data scientist or climate researcher who is interested to partner on a pilot or research opportunities

Jeremy Au defined startups as newly established businesses bringing future technologies to the present, with unicorns being those valued at over $1 billion. These valuations are typically driven by revenue generation of around $100 million annually and market confidence in future profitability, eg. Palantir and Salesforce. Private markets apply valuation multiples based on future growth potential, with speculative booms in sectors like crypto, where revenue valuation multiples went as as high as 1000x due to bull markets. The odds of achieving unicorn status (about 1 in 40 for USA startups with venture funding) and outlined eight strategies for building a unicorn (Christoph Janz). These include models like “whales,” serving high-value clients, and “rabbits,” scaling by targeting many smaller customers. He emphasized that becoming a unicorn requires long-term execution, strategic positioning, and navigating indirect competition, particularly in Southeast Asia’s fragmented markets. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/8-ways-to-build-a-unicorn Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/8-ways-to-build-a-unicorn-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/8-ways-to-build-a-unicorn-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/8-ways-to-build-a-unicorn-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts

Johann Wah, President & Cofounder of Nika.eco, and Jeremy Au discussed: 1. Student Founder Beginnings: While attending Yale-NUS, Johann founded a sustainable apparel company to pay for his university expenses and dates with his now-wife. The business started gaining traction after a Straits Times article featured their eco-friendly fabrics, but the COVID-19 pandemic led to canceled orders and an overwhelming inventory. Faced with financial challenges, he borrowed money from friends and family to meet his Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ) for the fabrics. When B2C sales dried up, he pivoted to B2B, cold calling and knocking on doors of corporations with sustainability mandates. After three months of high risk, he secured contracts with Western multi-national corporations headquartered in Singapore that allowed him to clear his debts and pay for his university fees. 2. Amazon to Nika.eco Founder: Johann landed a role as on AWS’s startup team after three attempts. Despite achieving his dream of working at Amazon, he felt compelled to explore climate tech, motivated by a conversation with his best friend and co-founder who had already left Amazon to pursue the same vision. Together, they launched Nika.eco to democratize climate and geospatial modeling, making it more accessible to smaller universities, researchers, and consultants. Their product simplifies climate modeling by offering a one-click virtual machine that automates setup, cutting down the typical three-day setup process to mere minutes. This solution addresses the cost and complexity barriers that smaller institutions face in accessing high-end cloud computing resources. 3. Climate Change Perspective: His passion for climate tech is deeply rooted in his childhood experiences in Chiang Mai, Thailand where his father, a part-time missionary, worked closely with indigenous farmers. The farmers were reliant on deforestation and monoculture farming practices to sustain their livelihoods, which sparked his interest in environmental sustainability. His wife, the cofounder of Thryft.sg, Southeast Asia’s largest secondhand bookstore, shares his commitment to sustainability. They frequently discuss the future of the planet and their hope for raising children in a better world. Johann remains optimistic that human innovation will help mitigate the effects of climate change. He also believes that although the world faces significant ecological challenges, technology and adaptability can pave the way for a brighter future. Jeremy and Johann also discussed how spatial analytics transform insurance risk pricing, how his time in the oil and gas industry shaped his sustainability approach, the importance of public-private partnerships, and Southeast Asia’s potential to become a hub for climate-focused solutions. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/johann-wah Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/johann-wah-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/johann-wah-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/johann-wah-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts

Wing Vasiksiri, General Partner & Founder of WV Fund, and Jeremy Au discussed: 1. Founder Failure Stigma: They compared how failure is perceived by founders and society in Southeast Asia versus the US, focusing on Thailand and Singapore. In Thailand, failure carries a strong stigma, making it harder for failed founders to reintegrate into the ecosystem, while in the US, failure is seen as part of the entrepreneurial journey, with founders often wearing it as a badge of honor. They noted that the lack of a talent recycling system in Southeast Asia makes it riskier for founders to fail, as there are fewer opportunities for them to be absorbed back into other startups, VC firms, or incubators. In contrast, Silicon Valley provides a more robust safety net for failed founders, who are quickly reabsorbed into the ecosystem. 2. New Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra: They discussed the recent political shift in Thailand with the appointment of Paetongtarn Shinawatra as Prime Minister, replacing Srettha Thavisin. Srettha, a former business executive, was removed from office after appointing a convicted cabinet member, which violated the Thai constitution. Paetongtarn, the daughter of former pro-business Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, is expected to maintain many of the previous administration’s policies, including the digital wallet program, which offers financial handouts of 10,000 baht (USD 300) to 50 million citizens to stimulate economic growth. While the stock exchange of Thailand reacted positively, with a sharp rise of over 11%, the long-term fiscal impact of such handouts remains a concern, particularly with potential inflationary pressures. 3. Electric Vehicle (EV) Manufacturing: They explored Thailand’s rapid adoption of electric vehicles, supported by strong government subsidies ranging from 20,000 to 100,000 baht per vehicle. In 2023, EVs accounted for nearly 10% of new car sales, and the government aims for 30% of vehicle production to be electric by 2030. This shift is largely driven by partnerships with Chinese manufacturers, positioning Thailand as a key player in the regional EV market. They contrasted this with Singapore, where the government’s reliance on gas tax revenues limits its incentive to push for EV adoption, despite favorable infrastructure conditions. Indonesia was also mentioned as a key player in the EV sector, particularly due to its rich nickel reserves essential for battery production. Jeremy and Wing also discussed the rise of the cannabis industry in Thailand, the minimum wage increase, and the lack of B2B SaaS success stories in the region. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/thailand-new-prime-minister Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/thailand-new-prime-minister-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/thailand-new-prime-minister-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/thailand-new-prime-minister-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts

Jeremy Au moderated a panel of venture capitalists to unpack the key trends shaping APAC’s investment landscape. Nruthya Madappa emphasized India's rapid recovery in early-stage VC, driven by second and third-time founders and $600 million deployed across 80+ companies at 3one4 Capital. She outlined how India's growing consumer class now outpaces China’s, creating new market opportunities. Brent Ogilvie highlighted Pacific Channel's 98% IRR over 14 years, investing in health, food, and environmental startups, while spotlighting the growing role of AI in deep tech. Ashwin Raguraman pointed to India’s Semiconductor Policy as a key driver of innovation in deep tech. The panelists also noted macroeconomic shifts, including capital moving from China due to geopolitical tensions, and how India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) is transforming fintech. They reflected on the broader shift toward sustainability and economic independence, reshaping how VCs allocate capital across the region. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/apac-vc-trends Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/apac-vc-trends-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/apac-vc-trendsc-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/apac-vc-trends-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Venture Studio Family and its community at https://inniches.com/family

Borko Kovacevic, Cofounder of Poddster, and Jeremy Au discussed: 1. Serbia Childhood to Singapore: Borko reflected on his childhood in Serbia during the 1980s and 1990s, witnessing both Yugoslavia's prosperity and the hardships of the Bosnian and Kosovo wars. Economic instability and rising crime taught him street smarts and resilience, values he now aims to instill in his children, who are growing up in Singapore’s safety. He stressed the importance of teaching gratitude and perseverance despite their comfort, helping them appreciate hard work and innovation. Borko contrasted his challenging upbringing with his children’s blessings, focusing on how to nurture their development without fostering complacency. 2. 17 Years at Microsoft: Borko recounted his Microsoft career, which began in the early 2000s in Serbia as one of the first employees in the post-war region. He described the culture shock of transitioning from a formal corporate environment—where suits and daily shaving were required—to Microsoft’s casual jeans-and-t-shirt culture. Over the years, Borko worked across Europe, including Munich, before settling in Singapore. He witnessed key leadership transitions, such as Bill Gates stepping down and Steve Ballmer taking over, which shaped the company’s evolving culture. Mentorship played a crucial role in helping him navigate these changes. After receiving tenure crystals at the five, ten, and fifteen-year marks, Borko chose to pursue his entrepreneurial aspirations instead of waiting for the twenty-year crystal. 3. Podcast Founder Poddster: Borko discussed founding Poddster, a podcasting studio business born from conversations with his co-founder, a UX and MVP expert who saw a market gap for fully equipped podcasting spaces. Starting with one studio in Dubai, Podster grew to 12 studio sets in Dubai and 4 in Singapore. The rise of video podcasting and short-form content, driven by platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn, has fueled its success. He also highlighted the importance of scalability and the development of Podyx, a SaaS platform to streamline operations for Poddster and other studios worldwide. Jeremy and Borko also discussed how his early career influenced his leadership style, the potential of AI to automate and enhance podcast production, and the future of content creation. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/borko-kovacevic Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/borko-kovacevic-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/borko-kovacevic-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/borko-kovacevic-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Visit poddster.com to start your content creation journey! Use code brave20 for 20% off your first recording.

Valerie Vu, Founding Partner of Ansible Ventures, and Jeremy Au discussed: 1. $3.3B Super Typhoon Disaster: Super Typhoon Yagi caused over $3.3 billion in damage and resulted in more than 300 deaths in northern Vietnam. The typhoon was one of the worst in 30 years, which significantly disrupted Vietnam’s economy with power outages in factories and offices for over a week. As a result, the country's GDP growth forecast was reduced by 0.15%. They also highlighted Southeast Asia's susceptibility to natural disasters which are often underappreciated by global investors. 2. VNG Police Raid: Vietnam’s police raided VNG, Vietnam's first unicorn for a sudden investigation. The board appointed Kelly Wong as interim CEO, with little news regarding the status of founder Le Hong Minh. The regional investor community has raised concerns about regulatory uncertainty and startup exit conditions, as VNG had been seen as Vietnam’s frontrunner and pioneer for an IPO in the US. 3. GoJek Market Exit: They also covered Gojek’s exit from the Vietnamese market after six years of operations and over $200 million in investment. Gojek’s departure follows the earlier exits of Uber and Didi, leaving Grab and domestic players like Be and Green SM (owned by VinFast) to dominate the market. Valerie suggested that a future collaboration between Be and Green SM could emerge to challenge Grab’s market position. Jeremy and Valerie also discussed Vietnam’s stock market status upgrade to "emerging market", Singapore’s stock exchange challenges, and regional tech startup consolidation. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/vietnam-super-typhoon-disaster Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/vietnam-super-typhoon-disaster-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/vietnam-super-typhoon-disaster-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/vietnam-super-typhoon-disaster-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Join us at Geeks on a Beach! Use the code "BRAVESEA" for a 45% discount for the first 10 registrations, and 35% off for the next ones.

Audra Pakalnyte, Partner at First Move, and Jeremy Au discussed: 1. Lithuania To Malaysia: Growing up as the youngest of three daughters, Audra's childhood was shaped by Lithuania's national post-Soviet transformation. Her parents' dinner table conversations about multiple entrepreneurial ventures taught her first lessons in business dynamics and the necessity for adaptability. These early experiences instilled a deep understanding of market dynamics and the entrepreneurial resilience required to navigate them. With serendipity and seeing the right opportunity, she moved to Malaysia and begun her startup journey with Khailee Ng and Joel Neoh at the first generation of local startups. 2. Adapt & Localize (Groupon Malaysia, KFit & Fave): Audra helped adapt and localize daily deals, exercise class subscriptions (KFit) and consumer payments to Southeast Asia. Says was acquired by Groupon and KFit pivoted to Fave which eventually bought back Groupon Malaysia. As an early employee and executive, she led teams to meet diverse market demands across the region's intended audiences. She shares her top learnings for founders looking to execute this strategy. 3. First Move VC Partner: In her transition to venture capitalism, Audra shared insights into establishing a VC fund that primarily targets early-stage consumer tech startups. With investments in over 16 early-stage companies, she underscored the critical role of understanding local consumer behaviors and market conditions. This knowledge guides her investment decisions and helps support her portfolio companies in scaling successfully across the diverse and fragmented Southeast Asian landscape. Jeremy and Audra also discussed her digital detox sabbatical, emotional resilience required for entrepreneurship and thinking through the right technology stack. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/audra-pakalnyte Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/audra-pakalnyte-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/audra-pakalnyte-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/audra-pakalnyte-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Join us at Geeks on a Beach! Use the code "BRAVESEA" for a 45% discount for the first 10 registrations, and 35% off for the next ones.

Joseph Mocanu, Managing Partner at Verge HealthTech Fund, and Jeremy Au discussed: 1. PHD MedTech Founder: Joseph shared his educational journey from studying molecular genetics at the University of Toronto where he initially focused on aging and cancer research, to realizing the essential role of business skills in bringing scientific advancements to market. This prompted him to pursue an MBA, which catalyzed his early entrepreneurial ventures, including co-founding a medical device startup at the age of 22, specializing in real-time brain imaging. 2. Global Healthcare VC: Joseph explains the ethos behind Verge Fund - impactful health technologies that enhance accessibility and efficiency in underserved emerging markets. The fund's global approach is not just about investment but also about spotting great founders regardless of product-market fit. 3. Emerging Manager Investor Myths: He explains the importance of patient capital and strategic foresight in venture capital, especially crucial in the volatile healthcare sector. His experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 illustrate the challenges of fundraising amidst global economic uncertainties. Reflecting on his dealings with different healthcare systems, he notes the significance of tailoring investment strategies to local healthcare environments. Jeremy and Joseph also discussed emerging fund manager dynamics, investment hurdles during economic downturns, and the challenges facing global investment strategies. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/joseph-mocanu Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/joseph-mocanu-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/joseph-mocanu-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/joseph-mocanu-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Join us at Geeks on a Beach! Use the code "BRAVESEA" for a 45% discount for the first 10 registrations, and 35% off for the next ones.

Gita Sjahrir, Head of Investment at BNI Ventures, and Jeremy Au discussed: 1. Pope Visit: They reflect on Pope Francis’ recent visit to Indonesia, emphasizing its significance as a beacon of positive media influence. The visit was part of a broader Asia Pacific tour and marked the first extensive travel of the Pope to the region. Gita noted the massive turnout, with events drawing large crowds, celebrating Indonesia's commitment to diversity and religious tolerance. 2. Shrinking Middle Class: Gita and Jeremy examined the significant decline in Indonesia’s middle class, which has fallen from 57 million to 48 million people. Macro factors such as the pandemic, global inflation and supply chain disruptions exposed structural weaknesses within the Indonesian economy, making it difficult for many individuals to maintain their middle-class income. 3. Policy Reforms & Financial Literacy: They stressed the need for more inclusive economic policies to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). They discussed the logistical and infrastructural challenges faced by businesses in Indonesia’s decentralized geography. While the population is digitally savvy, many Indonesians are caught in cycles of predatory loans due to a limited understanding of financial literacy. They contrasted the ease of obtaining consumer credit vs. the hurdles small businesses face in securing productive loans. They also talked about redefining economic metrics to better reflect modern realities, the critical role of vocational education in economic empowerment, and the challenges of implementing equitable economic policies. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/indonesia-shrinking-middle-class Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/indonesia-shrinking-middle-class-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/indonesia-shrinking-middle-class-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/indonesia-shrinking-middle-class-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Join us at Geeks on a Beach! Use the code "BRAVESEA" for a 45% discount for the first 10 registrations, and 35% off for the next ones.

Sherry Jiang, CEO & Cofounder of Peek, and Jeremy Au explored three key topics: 1. Navigating Product-Market Fit Pivots: Crypto winter forced Sherry to pivot from her original idea—an algorithmic stablecoin protocol for Southeast Asian currencies. This shift led to the creation of Peek, an AI-powered platform for managing net worth. She highlighted the challenges of gaining traction, facing ambiguous customer demand, and maintaining deep customer engagement. Sherry emphasized how adaptability is essential when an original business model fails to fit the market. She candidly discussed the emotional and logistical hurdles of steering a company through such changes, underscoring the need for transparent communication with both internal teams and external stakeholders, especially investors. 2. Founder Poker Strategy: Drawing on her poker experience, Sherry likened the entrepreneurial journey to poker, focusing on the importance of making informed decisions in the face of uncertainty. She discussed the psychological resilience required in both poker and startups, stressing that founders, like poker players, must manage risks and accept losses—even when decisions are strategically sound. The conversation tied this mindset to the essential founder skill of evaluating risks with the best available information and confidently making decisions amidst ambiguity. 3. Big Tech Career Advice: Sherry offered advice to tech professionals, particularly those considering a shift from stable corporate roles, such as Google, to startups. She encouraged them to assess their career paths in relation to their personal values, risk tolerance, and the volatility of startup life. Sherry urged introspection, advising individuals to reflect on what they truly value—be it autonomy, innovation, or stability—and how those values align with the inherent risks of entrepreneurship. For those contemplating the leap, she suggested carefully considering if their motivations and desire for autonomy align with the unpredictable nature of startup life. Jeremy and Sherry also discussed the tactical challenges of communicating business pivots to stakeholders, the emotional toll of leaving secure corporate environments, and the importance of staying authentic when explaining business shifts to investors. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/sherry-jiang2 Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/sherry-jiang2-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/sherry-jiang2-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/sherry-jiang2-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Join us at Geeks on a Beach! Use the code "BRAVESEA" for a 45% discount for the first 10 registrations, and 35% off for the next ones.

Oscar Jesionek, CEO & Cofounder of Fonos, and Jeremy Au discussed: 1. Austria Digital Nomad to Vietnam Founder: Oscar traces his entrepreneurial path, starting from his academic background in economics in Austria to his diverse professional experiences in headhunting, healthcare, and finance. His early career was a period of self-discovery, where he evaluated various sectors and geographies before narrowing his focus to roles that aligned with his values and desire for social impact. Oscar shares how these experiences, along with a growing dissatisfaction with conventional industries, led him to Vietnam, where he found a deeper sense of purpose through entrepreneurship. 2. Audio Learning Product-Market Fit: Fonos began with a simple goal to provide accessible non-fiction audio content, inspired by Oscar’s spouse’s learning preferences. Recognizing a gap in Vietnam’s market for educational non-fiction, Fonos initially focused on audiobooks, leveraging copyright advantages. As Vietnam’s digital payments evolved and consumer demand for educational content grew, Fonos expanded its offerings to include guided meditations, book summaries, and courses. This pivot transformed the platform from a niche audiobook provider into a comprehensive educational hub tailored to local needs. 3. Trust Your Gut: Oscar shares personal stories of navigating the uncertainties of entrepreneurship, from moving to Asia with limited financial resources to making strategic pivots in response to market demands. His journey underscores the importance of trusting your gut when making key decisions in unfamiliar environments, highlighting the balance between research and intuition in business growth. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/oscar-jesionek Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/oscar-jesionek-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/oscar-jesionek-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/oscar-jesionek-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Join us at Geeks on a Beach! Use the code "BRAVESEA" for a 45% discount for the first 10 registrations, and 35% off for the next ones.

Shiyan Koh, Managing Partner of Hustle Fund, and ​​Jeremy Au discussed: 1. Johor Special Economic Zone (SEZ): They explored the potential impact of the upcoming Johor-Singapore SEZ agreement, scheduled for signing in November. The SEZ, which is more than 4 times the size of Singapore, is seen as an opportunity to deepen economic ties between the two regions by leveraging Singapore’s capital, technology, and skilled workforce alongside Johor’s land and infrastructure. They noted regulatory challenges such as Johor’s year-long permit approval process, which contrasts with quicker timelines in other Malaysian states like Selangor. Both emphasized that political cooperation across Malaysia's federal government, Singapore and Johor's state government & king would be essential to the SEZ’s success, particularly in attracting multinational corporations (MNCs) and improving labor mobility across the border. 2. US Anti-China "Reverse CFIUS": The discussion covered the upcoming introduction of America's "reverse Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS)" legislation, which restricts US citizens, entities and LPs from investing in Chinese funds or companies involved in sectors like artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and microchips. These measures are expected to reduce China VC investments as US LPs steer clear of the compliance risks associated any funds that invest into China-linked companies. Reverse CFIUS reflects a broader change in global capital flows, signaling the end of the globalization era that had previously driven much of the world's economic integration. This shift could redirect capital towards Southeast Asia, offering opportunities for local investors but also presenting serious challenges. 3. Regional Trade Diversification: They examined Southeast Asia’s growing significance as part of the “China Plus One” strategy, where MNCs diversify operations beyond China due to rising trade tensions. The SEZ’s strategic location and proximity to Singapore’s financial and skilled labor markets could become a key hub for industries such as electronics and automotive manufacturing. They noted that improved infrastructure like direct international flights would enhance the region’s connectivity and attractiveness for global businesses. They also underscored that seamless collaboration and regulatory improvements to streamline bureaucratic processes are critical to fully capitalizing on these emerging opportunities. Jeremy and Shiyan discussed several emerging topics including diabetic horses healthcare, Singapore's longevity, crypto and VC conferences and the challenges of maintaining balanced diplomatic and economic strategies amidst global policy shifts. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/johor-singapore-sez Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/johor-singapore-sez-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/johor-singapore-sez-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/johor-singapore-sez-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Join us at Geeks on a Beach! Use the code "BRAVESEA" for a 45% discount for the first 10 registrations, and 35% off for the next ones.

Rob Snyder, Founder of Reframe, and Jeremy Au discussed: 1. McKinsey to Harvard MBA Founder: Rob detailed his initial career moves from political philosophy to starting at McKinsey, where he developed critical analytical skills and professional discipline. His time at Harvard Business School was shaped by the “Founder's Journey” course, which provided a realistic portrayal of the challenges in entrepreneurship through case studies and alumni insights, preparing him for the unpredictable startup environment. 2. Cracking Product-Market Fit: Rob's strenuous two year journey to identify product-market fit was marked by numerous strategy pivots. Direct customer feedback led to a streamlined product offering and catalyzed a growth spurt, increasing revenue from zero to $4 million ARR. He shared on how and why psychological barriers like confirmation bias were harder to overcome than the actual pivots. 3. Accelerate Or Die: Rob reflected on his parents’ traditional career paths and his aspiration to do more with his life and opportunities. The intense pace and high stakes of startup culture are both the norm and the reward for high-performers. Rob and Jeremy also explored the psychological resilience required for startup success, the influence of family history on risk-taking, and the significant learning moments derived from near-failure experiences. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/rob-snyder Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/rob-snyder-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/rob-snyder-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/rob-snyder-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Join us at Geeks on a Beach! Use the code "BRAVESEA" for a 45% discount for the first 10 registrations, and 35% off for the next ones.

Serena Lam, CEO & Founder of Fuzzy Sequence, and Jeremy Au discussed: 1. IBM to SaaS Founder: Serena described her seven-year tenure at IBM, where she tackled diverse strategic roles across the U.S., China, and India. This experience provided her with a robust foundation in technology and business strategy, crucial for her later ventures. She emphasized the comfort and security of a well-structured corporate environment, noting how it fostered her ability to save and enjoy a reliable income, which contrasted with the uncertainties of startup life. 2. Sales Automation Consequences: She elaborated on the creation of Fuzzy Sequence, a sales AI platform that integrates multiple tools to optimize sales processes. She highlighted how her own frustrations with booking meetings and enhancing sales productivity led her to develop a solution that now facilitates these tasks for other sales professionals. The platform automates and personalizes client interactions, which optimizes sales strategies and enhances meeting bookings. She discussed the complexities of scaling startups from small teams to larger operations, and elaborated on the need for adaptive leadership as startups grow 3. Vietnam Refugee Inspiration: Reflecting on her family's history, Serena recounted her grandparents' and parents' escapes from China and Vietnam. These experiences of survival and new beginnings in the face of adversity instilled in her the values of courage and resilience. These personal stories are also a continuous source of inspiration, driving her perseverance in the face of business challenges. Jeremy and Serena also explored the implications of AI in sales, the necessity of authenticity in customer relations, and the integration of technology in traditional business environments. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/serena-lam Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/serena-lam-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/serena-lam-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/serena-lam-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Join us at Geeks on a Beach! Use the code "BRAVESEA" for a 45% discount for the first 10 registrations, and 35% off for the next ones.

Jianggan Li, Founder & CEO of Momentum Works, and Jeremy Au discussed: 1. Black Myth Wukong $1B AAA Game: Jianggan and Jeremy examined the reinterpretation of 'Journey to the West' in the gaming blockbuster 'Black Myth: Wukong'. The developers overcame huge skepticism, incorporated complex cultural narratives into gameplay and overcame technical challenges to balance traditional storytelling with modern gaming technology. They also discussed the parallels with Indian and Southeast Asia mythology. 2. $86B Tencent Publisher (League of Legends, SEA Group & VNG): Tencent owns League of Legends (Riot Games), PUBG Mobile, Arena of Valor, as well as WeChat. They also inspired and invested in the game, chat, ecommerce & payments structure of Sea Group (Shopee, Garena Free Fire) and Vietnam’s VNG (Zalo, Zalopay). 3. Real Estate Bubble Burst: They analyzed the causes of property price inflation and subsequent market corrections with Evergrande & Country Garden debt. The confidence crisis has had ripple effects into the consumer and adjacent markets, spurring outflows of talent, capital and companies. They also discussed the importance of cultural understanding in global business strategies, how multinational companies leverage local consumer insights, and the complexities of managing large-scale economic shifts in the Southeast Asia tech scene. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/wukong-aaa-game Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/wukong-aaa-game-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/wukong-aaa-game-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/wukong-aaa-game-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Join us at Geeks on a Beach! Use the code "BRAVESEA" for a 45% discount for the first 10 registrations, and 35% off for the next ones.

Jesse Choi, Cofounder of Reku, and Jeremy Au discussed: 1. Bain Capital & Stanford MBA: Jesse shared his journey from an operations research and economics student at Columbia University to an early career at Bain management consulting and Bain Capital private equity. His Stanford MBA experience also expanded his professional network, deepened his analytical skills and broadened his career horizons. 2. Moving To Indonesia For Love: Jesse articulated his decision-making process behind relocating to Indonesia for the love of his life. His methodical approach to life's risks and opportunities focused on his assessment of Southeast Asia's potential, his professional strengths and long-term personal goals. 3. Founding Reku Investment Platform: Jesse recognizing the growth potential within Indonesia and founded Reku, an investment platform initially centered on cryptocurrency. He strategically broadened Reku's offerings to include US public equities to enhance accessibility, diversify investment options and tap new opportunities for Indonesian investors. They also touched on the leadership and entrepreneurship courses at Stanford's MBA program, personal philosophy on life, and how he assessed risk in shifting geographies, industries and roles. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/jesse-choi Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/jesse-choi-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/jesse-choi-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/jesse-choi-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyau Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Join us at Geeks on a Beach! Use the code "BRAVESEA" for a 45% discount for the first 10 registrations, and 35% off for the next ones.

Raditya (Dito) Wibowo, CEO & Founder of MAKA Motors, and Jeremy Au discussed: 1. Gojek Chief Transportation Officer: Raditya describes his seven-year tenure rise from managing a nascent on-demand transportation service from the modest two-story home HQ with only 2 toilets to becoming Chief Transport Officer. Developing Gojek's first dynamic pricing algorithm was key to beating competition from traditional and emerging tech players. His strategic thinking was pivotal in navigating these emerging problems, including how to navigate the demand vs. supply aspects of Ramadan. 2. Founder MAKA Motors: Dito shared how he founded an electric motorcycle startup nd the transition challenges from software to hardware. He detailed the design principles tailored to meet Indonesian market demands and consumer behaviors. Strategic decisions include customer personas, in-house R&D vs. outsourcing and managing component assembly logistics. His industrial engineering background has also influenced his approach to solving complex problems at the company. 3. How Hard Can It Be?: The phrase "How hard can it be?" encapsulates his entrepreneurial spirit, strategic planning and resilience. He shares how his early consulting experiences at McKinsey shaped his later thinking, as well as how he has had to think on his feet to overcome multiple startup challenges. Jeremy and Dito also explored the importance of adapting business models to changing market conditions, continuous learning for consumer needs, and the personal commitment to become comfortable with uncertainty. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/raditya-wibowo Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/raditya-wibowo-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/raditya-wibowo-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/raditya-wibowo-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Join us at Geeks on a Beach! Use the code "BRAVESEA" for a 45% discount for the first 10 registrations, and 35% off for the next ones.

Valerie Vu, Founding Partner of Ansible Ventures, and Jeremy Au discussed: 1. New President Tô Lâm: The death and state-mandated mourning period for Vietnam's former Communist Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong culminated in the swift elevation of Tô Lâm from the Ministry of Public Defense to President. This transition exhibited the controlled and planned nature of political leadership where political changes are orchestrated to ensure continuity and stability within the government. 2. Immediate China State Visit: Tô Lâm's chose his first official international visit to be China, where he and his delegation signed 16 key agreements spanning commerce and logistics. Vietnam's strategic "bamboo" diplomatic posture aims to strengthen ties with China amidst regional geopolitical tensions. The agreements also reflect a deepening of ties in areas critical to Vietnam’s economic and infrastructural development. 3. USA Rejection "Non-Market Economy": The U.S. Commerce Department disappointed Hanoi by continuing to classify Vietnam as a non-market economy country subject to punitive anti-dumping duties. Only 12 other economies are labeled as non-market by Washington, including China, Russia, North Korea and Azerbaijan. This status hampers Vietnam’s ability to absorb foreign direct investment and engage fully in international trade, especially with its largest trading partner, the U.S. They also discussed local cultural influences on business practices, regional infrastructure developments and the relocation of manufacturing from China and other countries to Vietnam. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/vietnam-new-president2 Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/vietnam-new-president2-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/vietnam-new-president2-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/vietnam-new-president2-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Join us at Geeks on a Beach! Use the code "BRAVESEA" for a 45% discount for the first 10 registrations, and 35% off for the next ones.

Avik Ashar, Principal at Artha Venture Fund, and Jeremy Au discussed: 1. Zilingo Ethical Dilemmas: Avik reflected on his experiences at Zilingo where rapid expansion led to questionable practices such as buying and selling Apple watches on their fashion lifestyle platform just to meet monthly sales targets, in order to achieve founder and board expectations of non-stop growth. He warned that crossing ethical lines for short-term gains, like funding or fame, is difficult to reverse over the medium term. Adhering to ethical standards is key to decisions that might push the boundaries of integrity, with the option of walking away from the job. 2. India vs. Southeast Asia Startups: Avik explained the similarities and differences between Southeast Asia and India, particularly the diverse and non-homogeneous nature of the two. In Southeast Asia, the cultural diversity within countries like Thailand and Indonesia requires tailored management strategies for each locale, much like in India where the cultural landscape changes dramatically over short distances. A deep understanding of local nuances is crucial for effective business operations. With examples from his management experience, he noted the distinct approaches needed in cities like Bangkok versus rural Thailand, and the cultural shifts encountered when traveling from metropolitan centers like Mumbai to smaller towns within India. 3. Market & Consumer Diversity: Avik explored the complexities of the Indian market, the stark economic disparities and varied consumer behaviors. He described the high spending power of urban elites compared to the rising middle class’s evolving consumer expectations. He also discussed the integration of technology in traditional sectors like textile manufacturing, and the transformative impact of digitization on industries traditionally lacking in infrastructure and capital expenditure. They also covered the critical importance of stringent due diligence in financial dealings, especially in emerging markets like India, the nuances of ethical leadership within rapidly scaling startups and socio-economic stratification with distinct spending behaviors in India. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/avik-ashar Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/avik-ashar-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/avik-ashar-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/avik-ashar-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Join us at Geeks on a Beach! Use the code "BRAVESEA" for a 45% discount for the first 10 registrations, and 35% off for the next ones.

Huiting Koh, Founding Managing Partner of Blueprint Ventures, and Jeremy Au discussed: 1. Solo General Partner (GP) Experience: Huiting discussed her journey as a solo GP, emphasizing the complexities of establishing Blueprint, her venture fund. She shared insights into the initial setup, overcoming challenges, and the decision-making processes involved. She also highlighted the critical learning curve she navigated, making strategic choices without complete information and trusting her instincts. 2. Gen Z vs. Generation Alpha: They analyzed evolving consumer behaviors and expectations, especially how these demographics are shaping consumer technology. They also underlined how the youngest cohorts are accustomed to artificial intelligence and digital interfaces from an early age. This also differs by country within Southeast Asia, for example, the unexpected discovery that the majority of users for an English learning platform in Vietnam were women (rather than men) across all job levels, with distinct referral patterns, 3. Blueprint's Distinctive Strategy: Huiting articulated what sets Blueprint apart: consumer-focused investment mandate, targeted Asa verticals, and robust consumer behavioral analysis. She elaborated on the fund’s approach to creating value by placing human-centric insights at the forefront of investment decisions while aiming for substantial social impact alongside financial returns. Huiting illustrated how to find sticky and impactful solutions across multiple markets. Jeremy and Huiting also talked about the influence of digital technologies on cognitive and social skills among children, the evolving definition of digital natives, and the importance of understanding gender-specific consumer behaviors. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/huiting-koh-2 Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/huiting-koh-2-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/huiting-koh-2-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/huiting-koh-2-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Join us at Geeks on a Beach! Use the code "BRAVESEA" for a 45% discount for the first 10 registrations, and 35% off for the next ones.

Shiyan Koh, Managing Partner of Hustle Fund, and ​​Jeremy Au talked about three main points: 1. Disney+ Arbitration PR Crisis: A woman died from an allergic reaction after eating at a Disney-affiliated restaurant. The husband sued Disney for "wrongful death" and $50,000+ of damages. Disney in May 2024 alleged that the husband accepted a forced arbitration agreement when signing up for Disney Plus in 2019. This caused a firestorm of public criticism about the company's accountability. The hosts discuss the broader implications of such legal strategies on public trust and branding, and Disney's withdrawal of this legal case serves as a cautionary tale about balancing tactical legal defenses with keeping a broader strategic eye. 2. Good vs. Bad Startup Sci-Fi Ideas: Shiyan stressed the importance of personal dedication to a business idea, given the substantial time commitment involved. They also explored how sci-fi plays a role with simultaneous innovation, the concept of "founder-problem fit" and the critical need to align personal interests with the entrepreneurial venture. They also discussed the suitability of ideas for venture capital investment, distinguishing between good business ideas and those that are venture-backable. 3. Defence Tech Rise: Jeremy discussed the role of startups like Anduril and Palantir in transforming defense technologies. YC-backed startup Ares Industries is producing cruise missiles that are 10X cheaper and more effective than existing models. Private sector innovation is increasingly crucial to government budgets looking to buy large volumes more cost-effectively. Jeremy and Shiyan also touched on topics like longevity and sleep quality, biohacking amongst tech enthusiasts, and the importance of market validation. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/good-vs-bad-startup-ideas Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/good-vs-bad-startup-ideas-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/good-vs-bad-startup-ideas-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/good-vs-bad-startup-ideas-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Vietnamese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Join us at Geeks on a Beach! Use the code "BRAVESEA" for a 45% discount for the first 10 registrations, and 35% off for the next ones.

Jingjing Zhong, CEO & Cofounder of Superbench, and Jeremy Au talked about three main themes: 1. UC Berkeley to Investment Banking: Jingjing reflected on her time at UC Berkeley where the competitive environment introduced her to the high-stakes world of investment banking. She shared her initial motivation for joining Houlihan Lokey, which was to make money (influenced by societal expectations from her upbringing in China). Her experience in the financial sector led to a significant reevaluation of her definition of success and steered her away from banking despite its financial allure. 2. General Manager Firefighting: Jingjing’s entrance to high-growth startup Helpling and eventual promotion to General Manager brought immediate challenges of operational management without initial support (a sharp contrast with the structured world of finance). She navigated intense periods of firefighting and strategic planning and learned to balance immediate problem-solving with long-term strategic thinking. Her experiences emphasized the importance of adapting to market and consumer trends and the transformative impact of effective coaching on her leadership skills. 3. Superbench Services AI Founder: Jingjing leveraged her experiences to cofound Superbench, an AI-driven platform aimed at optimizing operations for home service businesses. She detailed the transition from manual operations to AI-enhanced processes, which significantly improved sales conversions and operational efficiency. She discusses the nuanced applications of AI, where it complements human effort rather than replacing it, along with the practical benefits and challenges of integrating advanced technologies in traditional SME clients. Jeremy and Jingjing also talked about Jingjing’s cultural adjustments when she moved from USA to Singapore, the critical role of mentorship, and the role of data in strategic decision-making within service businesses. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/jingjing-zhong Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/jingjing-zhong-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/jingjing-zhong-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/jingjing-zhong-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Join us at Geeks on a Beach! Use the code "BRAVESEA" for a 45% discount for the first 10 registrations, and 35% off for the next ones.

Htay Aung, CEO & Founder of Anywheel, and Jeremy Au talked about three main themes: 1. Early Inspiration and Challenges: Htay detailed his journey from an immigrant student facing cultural and language barriers in Singapore to becoming the founder of Anywheel. His initial inspiration came from dealing with traffic in Sydney and Singapore, which led to the idea of a bike-sharing service during his studies at the University of Sydney in 2017. He recounted the early challenges of integrating into a new culture and educational system, which shaped his entrepreneurial mindset. 2. Operational Learning Curve: Htay described the initial operational challenges of starting Anywheel including assembling the first bicycle at his home to navigating supply chain challenges like sourcing the initial 500 bicycles from manufacturers reluctant to deal with a small startup. He shared insights into early mistakes, such as ordering unassembled bikes, which led to significant logistical challenges. He also detailed how the company integrated IoT technology to enhance operational efficiency and meet regulatory compliance, particularly in response to Singapore’s licensing regulations implemented by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) in 2018. 3. Strategic Market Expansion: Htay emphasized strategic and financial decisions made during difficult period and his choice to reject venture capital funding to retain control over the company's strategic direction. He also discussed market expansion strategies and regulatory navigation and how the company adapted to changes and acquired competitors following the LTA’s new rules in 2018. He also detailed that the acquisition of SG Bike was not only a business expansion but also a move to consolidate the market and enhance the overall industry reputation by assuming responsibility for its customer commitments. He discussed maintaining ethical business practices, particularly his decision not to charge user deposits—a decision made to foster trust and differentiate Anywheel from competitors like Mobike and Ofo. Jeremy and Htay also talked about the challenges in navigating through the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of trust, transparency, and hard work within the workplace, and his strategic plans for scaling operations while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability and community impact. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/htay-aung Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/htay-aung-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/htay-aung-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/htay-aung-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Join us at Geeks on a Beach! Use the code "BRAVESEA" for a 45% discount for the first 10 registrations, and 35% off for the next ones.

Gita Sjahrir, Head of Investment at BNI Ventures, and Jeremy Au talked about three main themes: 1. Indonesia 39% Debt to GDP Ratio vs. Singapore: Jeremy and Gita delved into the policy debate behind Prabowo's decision to increase Indonesia's debt-to-GDP ratio from 39% to 50%, and invest towards achieving an aggressive growth rate of 8% through a nickel-led industrial strategy coupled with expansive public spending. They tackled the broader implications of borrowing for a developing nation and the importance of maintaining fiscal credibility. Gita critiqued common misconceptions about national vs. personal debt and highlighted the international double standards in debt perception. They also compared Indonesia's fiscal strategy against USA, Singapore, Korea, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines. 2. Free School Lunch Program: They discussed Prabowo's popular school lunch program initiative that seeks to address childhood malnutrition, reduce growth stunting and improve educational outcomes for Indonesian children. Despite its potential, the program's implementation and funding mechanisms have ignited political debate. The potential to significantly boost student health and learning capabilities are contrasted against the risks of inefficiency and potential corruption. They deliberated on whether the anticipated improvements in public health would justify the public spending, with lessons from America and Japan's programs. 3. Capital City Move from Jakarta to Nusantara: The planned relocation of Indonesia's capital from Jakarta to Nusantara faces logistical and political challenges, which are natural for the extensive infrastructural developments. The discussion underscored the strategic necessity of such a move, considering Jakarta’s environmental and congestion issues. However, the media's critiques of overly-optimistic timelines and potential underestimations of required investments should be compared with the 30-40 years that it took for Washington DC to become the new capital city of America. Jeremy and Gita also covered the role of global trade flows, protectionist policies’ implications on economic growth, and the critical role of accountability in government spending. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/indonesia-free-school-lunches Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/indonesia-free-school-lunches-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/indonesia-free-school-lunches-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/indonesia-free-school-lunches-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Join us at Geeks on a Beach! Use the code "BRAVESEA" for a 45% discount for the first 10 registrations, and 35% off for the next ones.

BRAVE Southeast Asia Tech Podcast: DJ Tan, CTO & Cofounder of Prefer, and Jeremy Au talked about three main topics: 1. Government Food Scientist: DJ recounted his early fascination with science and his studies in chemistry at UCL, leading to a focus on food science at Singapore's ASTAR government lab. He shared how his academic and laboratory experiences shaped his decision to experiment at the frontier of what humans eat and drink and merge rigorous scientific methods with innovative culinary practices. He discussed the challenges that novel food products face, particularly in achieving cost parity and consumer acceptance regarding taste. 2. Prince of Fermentation: Transitioning from a chemistry enthusiast to a fermentation expert, DJ detailed his journey from organic synthesis to leveraging his expertise to transform flavor profiles in partnership with alcohol mixologists and chefs. Fermentation is a strategic solution that enhances and creates new flavors while potentially reducing production costs. He also shared how his title was accidentally coined, and how he feels about this personal brand today. 3. Coffee Without Beans: DJ discussed the inception of Prefer, a startup aimed at creating sustainable food solutions, beginning with bean-free coffee. He outlined the strategic positioning in the market, focusing on consumer benefits and business challenges. Prefer's goal is to revolutionize the coffee industry by offering an environmentally friendly alternative that maintains taste and convenience. The conversation also touched on scaling production, sustainable packaging, and the impact of their business model on the food industry’s adaptation to climate change. Jeremy and DJ also talked about the technical challenges in food science, consumer trends towards innovative food products, and the impact of global environmental changes on agricultural practices. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/dj-tan Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/dj-tan-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/dj-tan-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/dj-tan-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Join us at Geeks on a Beach! Use the code "BRAVESEA" for a 45% discount for the first 10 registrations, and 35% off for the next ones.

Patrick Linden, Cofounder & Managing Partner of Match.Asia, and Jeremy Au discussed three main points: 1. Dealguru $34M Acquisition: Patrick shared his journey beginning from a small village in Germany to moving to Singapore and building iHipo, a platform to connect European students with opportunities in Southeast Asia. This early experience ignited his entrepreneurial passion, and he recounted the inception of Dealguru, an e-commerce platform inspired by the Daily Deal model. He described a strategic marketing stunt involving Starbucks vouchers that catapulted the platform into the public eye, which quickly established it as a key player in Singapore’s e-commerce sector. 2. Match.asia M&A Marketplace: Patric's new platform aims to facilitate M&A activities by connecting sellers and buyers in the lower mid-market, focusing on transactions below $100 million. Patrick also outlined the challenges and strategies of M&A and the importance of creating a well-integrated market ecosystem to support transactions. Streamline M&A searches would make it more affordable and accessible vs. inefficient brokers, and was inspired by the challenges he faced. 3. Southeast Asia Roll-Up Strategy: Patrick detailed his experience with roll-up strategies where multiple smaller companies in similar sectors across different markets are merged to form a larger entity, which improves market presence and operational efficiency. He discussed how this strategy has been effective in sectors like online food delivery and e-commerce, particularly in a fragmented market like Southeast Asia. He also shares his personal experience doing this with Dealguru vs. Groupon. Jeremy and Patrick also touched on Patrick's early experiences adapting to life in Singapore, the nuances of navigating different business cultures, and the importance of resilience in the face of entrepreneurial challenges. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/patrick-linden Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/patrick-linden-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/patrick-linden-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/patrick-linden-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Join us at Geeks on a Beach! Use the code "BRAVESEA" for a 45% discount for the first 10 registrations, and 35% off for the next ones.

Shiyan Koh, Managing Partner of Hustle Fund, and ​​Jeremy Au talked about three main points: 1. Allianz Insurance Acquiring NTUC Income: Jeremy and Shiyan dissected the business logic and new facts that have emerged, especially regarding the current competition and performance challenges facing NTUC Income. They addressed the confusing public communications, emphasizing the need for transparent messaging to maintain stakeholder trust and societal confidence. They also reflected on the lessons for nonprofits and social enterprises regarding the importance of the constitution to safeguard social objectives. 2. USA Civilian Nuclear Deal: Singapore signed a thirty-years long “123” agreement to access US nuclear energy technologies and expertise that are under export controls. 95% of Singapore’s electricity is powered by fossil fuels, with low opportunities for solar, wind, geothermal and other renewable sources. Nuclear modular reactors would be one of the few ways to achieve Singapore’s ambitious 2050 net zero carbon emissions pledge. America signed similar deals with Australia, India, Indonesia, Japan, Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam - with implications for energy security, diplomatic alliances and optionality for national defense. 3. Politicians vs. Technocrats: They explored the contrasting leadership styles and political approach of Tim Walz, JD Vance, and Mitt Romney. With different experiences as teacher, veteran, venture capitalist, management consultant and community organizer, they exhibit the difference in skillsets between governance and winning votes. They compare this to Singapore’s policy and political landscape, and whether technocrats or retail politicians better serve their communities. Jeremy and Shiyan also discussed the role of regulatory oversight in corporate transitions, the influence of legal structures on organizational missions, and the cultural implications of business practices across different regions. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/singapore-usa-nuclear-deal Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/singapore-usa-nuclear-deal-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/singapore-usa-nuclear-deal-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/singapore-usa-nuclear-deal-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Evo Commerce at bback.co and stryv.co

Jeremy Au listed the 3 reasons for joining Lucence, a startup leveraging next-generation sequencing AI for early cancer detection with a single blood test. He reflected on his teenage years grieving over a personal loss due to lymphoma. He contrasted the builder role with the job of a VC, with a different set of “atomic” work outcomes. He appreciates being "the dumbest person in the room” and learning from experts in genetics, medicine, and data science. This role fulfills his entrepreneurial energy with a strong sense of purpose: getting revenge on cancer, improving patient treatment outcomes and saving lives globally. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/why-i-joined-lucence Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/jwhy-i-joined-lucence-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/why-i-joined-lucence-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/why-i-joined-lucence-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Evo Commerce at bback.co and stryv.co

Jeremy Tan, Managing Partner and Cofounder of Tin Men Capital, and Jeremy Au talked about three main points: 1. Cambridge Engineer & Harvard MBA: Jeremy Tan shared his journey from a playful student to getting into a life-changing education at Cambridge. His early life goal of becoming a refinery chemical engineer shifted after a pivotal internship, which propelled him into finance with Morgan Stanley investment banking and later private equity. Getting an MBA at Harvard Business School opened up many doors for him, especially in building a global alumni network that later allowed him to secure essential early LP funding for his VC fund. 2. Founding Tin Men Capital: Jeremy shared what catalyzed his inspiration to finally make a leap of faith and launch a VC fund focused on B2B technology startups in Southeast Asia. Raising the first fund in a nascent VC market was challenging, and he shared his perspective on how to be successful as an emerging manager. He also shared the importance of understanding local industries and maintaining a tight, selective portfolio. 3. Fatherhood Insights: Jeremy reflected on how becoming a parent influenced how he now manages partnerships in business. He noted the importance of communication and empathy, and advocates for a balance between personal and professional aspirations. Just as it did in his own personal transformation journey and relationship with his children, directive approaches often fail when collaborating with founders. They also discussed his initial challenges of settling in at Cambridge, the influence of childhood experiences on leadership styles, and his personal coping mechanisms for stress. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/jeremy-tan Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/jeremy-tan-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/jeremy-tan-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/jeremy-tan-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Evo Commerce at bback.co and stryv.co

Jianggan Li, Founder & CEO of Momentum Works, and Jeremy Au talked about three main themes: 1. Indonesia & Trump Tariffs: Indonesia's new tariffs target imports like China-manufactured footwear, clothing, and ceramics to protect 65M local micro, small and medium enterprises employing 109M people. These trade barriers have negatively impacted local customers, e.g a hotpot restaurant struggling to get custom-branded plates. Similar measures include Brazil's quota for steel products, South Africa's tariffs on solar panels, and Trump's proposal to increase US tariffs to 60% on Chinese goods. 2. China Manufacturing Dominance: Manufacturing efficiency is driven by specialization, scale and agglomeration, e.g. Zhejiang dominates specific industries such as fishing rods, while Zhongshan (Guzhen) is known as the "lighting capital of the world." Historical precedents are Germany and Japan's post-WWII industrialization surge that resulted in global trade wars, UK protectionism and USA enacting the Plaza Accords to protect their manufacturers. 3. Involution 内卷 & Education Labor Mismatch: Intense competition in China's manufacturing sector has resulted in low profit margins and thus low salaries for workers. Fierce competition among workers for limited gains leads to significant burnout, a phenomenon known as "involution" (内卷, nèijuǎn). Chinese workers heavily invest in gaokao (高考) education for their children as a ticket to a better life, but too many families doing so has led to an oversupply of university graduates vs. the actual labor market - further exacerbating stress and pressure. Overseas consumers benefit the most by enjoying low prices and high-quality goods, which contribute to low inflation in their own countries. Jeremy and Jianggan highlighted Singapore and Malaysia's collaboration challenges on data centers, Germany's vocational education system, and the long-term benefits of Chinese businesses setting up operations abroad. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/china-trade-wars Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/china-trade-wars-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/china-trade-wars-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/china-trade-wars-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Evo Commerce at bback.co and stryv.co

Jeremy Au discussed the increasing intensity of "algostorms" - unpredictable social media “weather systems” driven by algorithms that prioritize engagement over truth. The Internet’s transition from human-centric, chronological forums to a volatile online environment where individuals are caught in fluctuating must-discuss trends manipulated by botnets, corporations, and professional influencers. He also drew parallels to the stock market, where algorithm-driven trading can cause flash crashes, leading to rapid market drops and recoveries. Some people trendjack to push their agendas, others unconsciously follow what seems to be majority opinion, and some seek refuge in genuine human interactions. He pointed out government actions to regulate content platforms and deploy Internet “circuit-breaker” blackouts, across Singapore, India, Myanmar, Indonesia, Iran and Bangladesh. Acknowledging the power of online influence is the first step to taking back control over one’s reactions and gaining intentionality in the digital sphere. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/algostorm-survival Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/algostorm-survival-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/algostorm-survival-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/algostorm-survival-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Evo Commerce at bback.co and stryv.co

Adriel Yong, Head of Investments at Ascend Network, and Jeremy Au discussed three major topics: 1. Startup Accounting Tricks (GMV, Revenue, Gross Margin, Contribution Margin): Local VCs have often confused Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) with actual platform revenue, and gross margins with actual unit profitability. Startups have also split reporting contribution margin into CM1, CM2, CM3 and CM4. This has caused investor misunderstandings, accusations of misleading financial reporting and startup boards to focus on the wrong metrics. Prevalance is high due to inexperienced finance teams, emerging VCs and poor market norms/ incentives. 2. Revenue Bundling & Valuation Multiples: Jeremy and Adriel addressed how one-stop-shop/ superapp startups may bundle multiple revenue streams under a single total "revenue" term: one-off sales, onboarding fees, GMV-based revenue, direct material sales, SaaS subscription, and lending revenues. VCs may mistakenly apply the same "tech valuation multiple" to all of these different revenue streams, leading to inflated valuations and later misunderstandings of the actual growth rate. For example, many VCs failed to understand net interest margins for lending startups, thus failing to account for non-performing loans. 3. Founder Frauds: Jeremy and Adriel discussed real-life anonymized examples of theft, misrepresented financials, inflated invoices, related party transactions without proper disclosure and fake school credentials. They noted that these practices are common in markets with less rigorous due diligence processes or less professional founder / executive business norms. VCs face challenges in detecting fraud, such as spot-checking large-scale operations or non-existent offices, underscoring the need for thorough due diligence to verify data accuracy. Jeremy and Adriel also talked about the impact of bribery and kickbacks on market operations, effective methods for verifying company operations, and the importance of appointing neutral CFOs to oversee transparent financial practices. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/startup-tricks Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/startup-tricks-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/startup-tricks-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/startup-tricks-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Evo Commerce at bback.co and stryv.co

Shiyan Koh, Managing Partner of Hustle Fund, and ​​Jeremy Au talked about three main themes: 1. Kamala vs. Trump USA Election: Jeremy and Shiyan discussed Kamala Harris stepping into the presidential race, and speculated on her potential policy directions and how her leadership might influence relations with Asia. The excitement around her candidacy and the shift in political dynamics were key points, along with how both parties still view being tough on China as beneficial. 2. NTUC Income Insurance Privatization by Allianz: Jeremy and Shiyan explored the implications of selling a majority stake of NTUC Income, Singapore's insurance cooperative, to Allianz. Allianz CEO's “We're not in Asia to buy top line; we want to build a resoundingly profitable business” reflects how this acquisition will transfer wealth from policyholders towards current shareholders. They debated the public policy rationale behind the decision, in light of the complexities of balancing profitability with social benefits in the insurance sector. 3. Indonesia D2C & Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG): Jeremy and Shiyan talked about the income distribution and purchasing power disparities in Indonesia, and shared about a founder who pivoted from a B2B SaaS model to a direct-to-consumer retail business called Lucky Bundle, which focuses on serving the lower-income 80% of the population. They also discussed the productivity solutions grant (PSG) in Singapore, discussing how government subsidies can impact market competitiveness. The implementation approach of these subsidies may accidentally support sub-standard vendors, thus hindering the development of globally competitive businesses. Jeremy and Shiyan also covered the challenges of building in different GDP per capita zones, differences between public and private healthcare costs, and the role of cooperatives in balancing market dynamics. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/singapore-insurance-cooperative-privatization Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/singapore-insurance-cooperative-privatization-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/singapore-insurance-cooperative-privatization-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/singapore-insurance-cooperative-privatization-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Evo Commerce at bback.co and stryv.co

Jeremy Au reflects on the most important insight that he learned from interviewing hundreds of tech leaders across the region. Every secret has a shelf life, as private information diffuses into the public markets and becomes known by everyone. Leaders who discern emerging patterns before they become common wisdom can take action and make high-conviction bets while others mock them. He also underscores the value of understanding other's personal narratives to uncover motivations and predict future actions in a rapidly-evolving web of relationships. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/brave-secrets Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/brave-secrets-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/brave-secrets-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/brave-secrets-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Evo Commerce at bback.co and stryv.co

​​Parin Mehta, Venture Partner & Board Member at Menyala, and Jeremy Au talked about three main points: 1. Google & Airbnb GM Career: Parin's journey began with his parents' migration from Uganda to the UK. Moving to Japan to teach English was a transformative experience that spurred his desire to return to Asia one day. He shared how he made the jump in 2007 from management consulting to Google rapidly scaling across USA, Europe, Africa, and eventually Singapore. He then stepped up as Airbnb's Asia-Pacific General Manager to lead the division for growth and through the pandemic. 2. Tech Executive to Founder Coach: Initially, coaching was a necessity because he led teams with more qualified individuals (which made directing them less effective) and thus focused on asking questions and removing blockers. This naturally evolved into a coaching style, which he has refined over the years through practice, certification and intentional development into a more reflective approach. He shared the joy and power of asking the right question at the right time. 3. Leadership Advice: Executives and founders are often lonely, stuck with difficult decisions, and actually responsible for the company challenges they now face. People seeking coaching will eventually come to understand that it’s not about getting answers but discovering insights through thoughtful questions. He stressed the importance of creating a safe environment for reflection and deep thinking, which leads to more meaningful actions. Jeremy and Parin also discussed the importance of chemistry between coach and coachee, the misconceptions about coaching vs. consulting or mentoring, and COVID-19’s impact on team dynamics. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/parin-mehta Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/parin-mehta-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/parin-mehta-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/parin-mehta-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Evo Commerce at bback.co and stryv.co

Valerie Vu, Founding Partner of Ansible Ventures, and Jeremy Au discussed three main themes: 1. Putin Bamboo Strategy: Vietnam’s “bamboo strategy” foreign policy involves maintaining strong roots while being flexible, which allows Vietnam to navigate relationships with global superpowers like the US, China, and Russia. Valerie highlighted that in less than a year, Vietnam hosted visits from Presidents Xi Jinping, Joe Biden, and Vladimir Putin. This balancing act is crucial for Vietnam given its historical ties with Russia for military supplies and Vietnam war support, and its growing economic connections with the US and China. Valerie also pointed out that while the US expressed disappointment over Putin’s visit, Vietnam’s neutral stance is essential for its strategic, political, and economic interests. 2. Data Sovereignty & 49% Foreign Ownership Limit: Vietnam's new data sovereignty laws require tech giants like Amazon and Google to store data locally, similar to China and USA. They also discussed the foreign ownership cap, which limits foreign entities to 49% ownership in sensitive sectors like banking to safeguard national interests. However, insufficient local data capacity has led Vietnam to now allow 100% foreign ownership in data centers to attract more data center operators. 3. Investment Landscape: Valerie shared insights into the sectors thriving in Vietnam despite global financial uncertainties. She mentioned that consumer goods, healthcare, and education are performing exceptionally well. She discussed the challenges faced by fintech startups in Vietnam, particularly due to the lack of an open regulatory sandbox and the dominance of well-established banks. Jeremy and Valerie also discussed the impact of geopolitical tensions on FDI in Vietnam, the importance of infrastructure development for sustained economic growth, and the shift in educational trends. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/vietnam-bamboo-strategy Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/vietnam-bamboo-strategy-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/vietnam-bamboo-strategy-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/vietnam-bamboo-strategy-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Evo Commerce at bback.co and stryv.co

Jeremy Au reflects on the transformative power of asking questions by sharing his personal career experiences. He reveals how an early experience in the army working for a boss who discouraged questions shaped his initial approach to leadership and masculinity. He had to face a pivotal internship experience where not asking questions nearly derailed his career in order to learn the importance of transforming feedback into growth. Acknowledging what we don't know and being brave to confront social vulnerability is key to eventually reaching high performance. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/dont-ask-stupid-questions Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/dont-ask-stupid-questions-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/dont-ask-stupid-questions-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/dont-ask-stupid-questions-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Evo Commerce at bback.co and stryv.co

Karl Mak, Cofounder & CEO of Hepmil Media Group, and Jeremy Au talked about three main themes: 1. Viral Memes Founder: Karl shared the story of how SGAG was born out of boredom during his university days at Singapore Management University (SMU) where he and his co-founder Adrian spent time creating side businesses. The breakthrough came in 2012 when Singapore's McDonald's ran out of curry sauce, a rare headline that inspired them to create a viral meme. This led to the creation of SGAG, a Facebook page where they posted memes that quickly gained popularity. They realized the potential of their reach when they saw that their memes were engaging millions of Singaporeans weekly. They initially monetized by selling t-shirts but soon found it unsustainable. They got inspired by BuzzFeed and Vice and shifted to integrating brands into their content, leading to their first big break with Scoot Airlines. 2. Hepmil Media Evolution: Despite challenges, such as a failed M&A with a large media company in 2018, they persisted and reimagined the business, leading to significant growth, with the company now employing 200 people across six offices in Southeast Asia. Karl described how they expanded both geographically (from Singapore to Malaysia and Indonesia, reaching 15 million young people) as and with new verticals like Hepmil Creators Network to support young content creators on platforms like TikTok. This led to a successful Series A funding and by 2021, they ventured into social commerce, leveraging their network for live streaming sales in Vietnam and the Philippines. 3. The Price of Fame: Karl reflected on why people want to be famous and the challenges that come with it. He categorized people into three groups: artists with a creative itch, those who become famous accidentally, and those seeking recognition for vanity reasons. He highlighted the downsides of fame, such as loss of privacy and the pressure to constantly post content, leading to burnout and identity crises. He also stressed the importance of mental and physical well-being, advising creators to take breaks and maintain a clear separation between their personal and online personas. He shared his own coping mechanisms during COVID-19, such as running and cycling, which helped him manage stress and maintain his mental health. Jeremy and Karl also discussed the impact of accidental fame, the evolving nature of media consumption, and strategies for mental health and well-being for content creators. Watch, listen or read the full insight at https://www.bravesea.com/blog/karl-mak Nonton, dengar atau baca wawasan lengkapnya di https://www.bravesea.com/blog/karl-mak-id 观看、收听或阅读全文，请访问 https://www.bravesea.com/blog/karl-mak-cn Xem, nghe hoặc đọc toàn bộ thông tin chi tiết tại https://www.bravesea.com/blog/karl-mak-vn Get transcripts, startup resources & community discussions at www.bravesea.com WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VakR55X6BIElUEvkN02e TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeremyau Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeremyauz Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeremyau LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bravesea English: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Bahasa Indonesia: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Chinese: Spotify | YouTube | Apple Podcasts Learn more about Evo Commerce at bback.co and stryv.co