Asia Tech Podcast

In this episode of ATP, we spoke to Glenn Gore, CEO of Affinidi, who challenges this status quo and argues that ownership of our digital identity should belong to us—not BIG Tech.

Some of the topics Glenn covered in detail include:

• Owning your digital identity means preserving and controlling YOUR narrative—and being empowered by it.
• BIG Tech currently owns your identity and they track, store, and monetize it without meaningful oversight or your full understanding.
• Surveillance capitalism isn’t concerned with who you are—it’s focused on understanding what you do.
• Reclaiming your identity requires a new tech stack and Affinidi is building it—complete with personal data vaults and verifiable credentials.
• As AI becomes personal and powerful, our data becomes more valuable. And we’ll want that AI to work for us, bot for BIG Tech.

In this episode of ATP, Alex Hearn, the Founder and CEO of Slipcase, explains how the industry is shifting toward “contextual intelligence” — the ability to quickly access relevant, high-quality information that supports better decision-making and career growth.

Some of the larger topics Alex covered in detail include:

• With global risks compounding, brokers, underwriters, and risk managers must stay informed across a wide spectrum of issues to remain competitive.
• Traditional sources of information for insurance professionals had been fragmented and inefficient.
• The importance of building a centralized, consolidated, and curated stream of insurance-related information.
• His belief that audience building in insurance is about hyper-relevance, not scale.
• Artificial intelligence is fundamentally changing the way content is curated and discovered.

In this episode of ATP, Paul Harapin, Head of Asia Pacific and Japan at Stripe, explains how Stripe’s technology, now processing $1.4 trillion annually, is driving a shift from simple automation to intelligent, adaptive financial systems.

Some of the topics that Paul covered in detail:

• AI is now deeply embedded into Stripe's ecosystem, not just to optimize existing processes like fraud detection, but to reshape entire money flows.
• While generalist AI platforms like OpenAI and Perplexity dominate headlines, AI purpose-built for specific industries is where much of the near-term value is being created.
• Asia Pacific isn't just participating — it's leading the charge into real-time payments and alternative rails.
• How Agentic AI will eliminate traditional bottlenecks between sales, payments, and customer service, especially for SMEs and startups.
• Stablecoins are poised to revolutionize remittances, treasury management, and cross-border B2B commerce, especially in emerging markets.

Technology leadership is never about a single, bold decision — it’s about a series of intentional, calculated choices that evolve over time. The Asia Tech Podcast sat down with Idan Zalzberg, the Chief Technology Officer of Agoda, to learn how complex technology infrastructures are built, maintained, and reimagined. 

Some of the topics that Idan cover in detail included:

• One of the most surprising themes from Idan’s leadership style is his insistence that CTOs should continue to code. Remaining hands-on creates deep trust with engineering teams and maintains sharp intuition for decision-making.
• It’s not about being pro- or anti-cloud. It’s about being in control of your tech stack and cost structures — and re-evaluating continuously.
• To scale AI effectively, companies must build internal capabilities to continuously monitor, measure, and validate AI's impact.
• Rather than replacing engineers, AI is amplifying their productivity — making the best developers even more capable.
• Agoda’s future goal isn’t just to be a booking site — it’s to be a travel companion.

At Onchain 2025 in Bangkok, recorded at the Sofitel So by Michael Waitze, the host of the Asia Tech Podcast, we captured more than 10 conversations that challenged some of the deepest assumptions in finance.

The debates were passionate and layered. Some experts championed tokenization as a force for transparency and accessibility, particularly in emerging markets where traditional systems often fall short. Others urged caution, warning that not every asset — or market — may benefit from being put on-chain.

As we dig deeper into this conversation, the complexities become even more apparent. Is tokenization simply another tool that can empower individuals with greater control over their investments? Or is it a transformative force that could fundamentally disrupt the fabric of traditional finance? While it offers the promise of enhanced liquidity and lower costs, not all assets may be suitable for tokenization. What should be tokenized — and what should remain untouched?

The future of finance may very well depend on how we answer these critical questions.

At Money20/20 Asia in Bangkok, the Asia Tech Podcast, hosted by Michael Waitze, recorded more than 20 conversations with some of the brightest minds in finance and technology. The discussions revealed a clear theme: the future of money is about much more than transactions—it's about trust, sustainability, inclusion, and innovation.

From the rise of green fintech to the integration of AI into real-time financial decision-making, it’s clear that a more sustainable and intelligent financial system is not just on the horizon—it’s already taking shape. Embedding sustainability data into transactions and enabling consumers to “talk” to their money are just a few examples of how rapidly things are evolving.

As traditional banks and fintechs move closer together, the key question remains: will these innovations democratize access or create new barriers? The choices we make today will define the future. One thing is certain—the way we think about money is about to change forever.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast, Karen Kim, CEO of Human Managed, argues that being "data-driven" is no longer enough. Businesses aren’t suffering from a lack of information—they’re suffering from too much of it, without a clear way to turn that data into meaningful action.

Some of the topics that Karen covered in detail include:

• Decision Intelligence isn’t just about better decisions—it’s about decisions at scale.
• Karen introduced the idea of composite AI, where multiple AI tools and models—LLMs, agents, deep learning systems—are combined to build richer, more nuanced workflows.
• The problem is not access to tools—it’s connecting data to outcomes.
• The shift from data-driven to decision-centric.
• Service design will be the next frontier in AI.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast, Kawal Preet, President APAC at FedEx, shares key insights into how logistics, emerging technologies, and leadership intersect in today’s fast-changing world.

Some of the topics Kawal covered in detail include:

• FedEx isn’t just a logistics giant; it’s an organization deeply rooted in its people-first philosophy, "People-Service-Profit".
• The FedEx network isn't just about physical movement; it's about optimizing routes, reducing transit times, and making data-driven decisions to enhance efficiency.
• Supply chains have evolved significantly over the years, shifting from centralized, thick pipelines to agile, multi-dimensional networks.
• FedEx is embedding AI and digital tools across its entire value chain.
• As one of the largest logistics companies in the world, FedEx has made sustainability a core focus.
• APAC is the future of global trade.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast, Gautam Kumar, co-Founder and CEO of FarEye, breaks down why last-mile delivery is no longer just a logistics function—it’s the final, critical touchpoint in customer experience.

Some of the topics that Gautam covered in detail:

• Last-mile delivery is the real “storefront” of modern commerce. No matter how amazing your product is, the last-mile experience is what your customers remember.
• Generative AI Is transforming routing and real-time optimization.
• Data-driven delivery is about personalization and prediction. FarEye leverages historical data to optimize delivery attempts.
• Failed deliveries aren’t just costly, they’re environmentally harmful. Every failed delivery means more fuel, more emissions, and added pressure on the logistics system.
• Luxury deliveries will become a differentiator.
• Gen Z and Millennial consumers expect speed, transparency, and sustainability.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast, we talk to Simon Quirk, co-Founder and CEO of Graceview AI, about what it really takes to build an AI startup in today’s rapidly changing landscape.

Some of the topics that Simon covered in detail include:

• While there may be some overhyped valuations in the AI sector, the long-term potential of AI is undeniable.
• For any startup, identifying a niche and going deep is crucial. This approach not only helps in product development but also in building credibility and trust with early customers.
• Graceview’s approach blends AI with human expertise, ensuring that while AI handles the heavy lifting, lawyers review and validate the output.
• Why being model-agnostic is an advantage. The ability to switch easily between AI models depending on what is best suited for a particular task.
• The importance of curating and validating data over time and building this into a corpus of valuable data.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast, Sheue Chee Beh, Head of Partnerships for APAC at Yuno, breaks down the hidden forces shaping how we pay today—and how businesses must adapt.

Some of the topics that Chee covers in detail include:

• Payment systems have continuously evolved to make transactions more seamless while preventing fraud. The goal has always been to enhance customer experience while ensuring security.
• One of the biggest challenges in payments is striking the right balance between convenience and security. Consumers want a frictionless experience, but reducing friction may increase vulnerability to fraud.
• Digital payments are not just for consumers—they are also transforming SMEs.
• Payment Orchestration: For businesses operating in multiple countries, accepting payments isn’t as simple as choosing one provider. Every market has its own preferred payment methods, banking infrastructure, and regulations.
• One of the most surprising insights was that alternative payment methods are outpacing credit cards in many regions, especially in Southeast Asia, India, and Latin America.
• One of the most exciting developments in the industry is the effort to connect different national payment systems into a seamless global network.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast, Hirotaka Uchida, Partner at Arthur D. Little, unpacks how Thailand, China, and India are shaping the global auto industry—and what it means for the future of mobility.

Some of the topics that Uchida-san covered in detail included:

• How Thailand has positioned itself as a key player in the automotive industry over the last 50 years.
• While Japan pioneered the hybrid revolution with the launch of the Toyota Prius in 1997, it appears to be losing ground in the EV market to Chinese manufacturers.
• The Thai government is now using similar incentives that it once used for Japanese manufacturers to attract Chinese EV companies
• How and why the traditional auto market in Thailand is declining after peaking in 2012.
• Quietly, India is emerging as a major automotive market.
• For better or for worse, geopolitical tensions are reshaping the global automotive landscape.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast featuring Eli David Rokah, the CEO of StartupBlink, I was struck by his passion for startups, ecosystems, and how he approaches building and scaling his business.

Some of the topics Eli covered in detail included:

• For Eli, building a business is not just about profitability or prestige, but about creating something that excites the founder.
• Startup ecosystems are constantly evolving, with companies emerging and dissolving regularly. Trying to capture every shift in real-time would be an impossible task.
• The importance of a strong team and scaling beyond yourself.
• Startup ecosystems thrive in environments that encourage bold action and a willingness to fail. Perfectionism and fear of failure can be crippling, and startup founders need the audacity to pursue big ideas.
• How legal frameworks and cultural norms influence startup ecosystems. Eli pointed out that countries with lenient bankruptcy laws create a safer environment for entrepreneurs to take risks.
• Global thinking over local innovation is key.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast, Shalu Wasu, co-founder of gimmefy, shares his insights on blending AI and marketing to create more efficient workflows for marketers. Drawing from over two decades of experience in brand management, agencies, and media, Shalu explains how AI can automate routine marketing tasks, allowing teams to focus on high-impact strategies. 

Some of the topics that Shalu covered in detail include:

• AI isn't just about flashy features or fun gimmicks—it's about driving real productivity.
• Building bespoke AI that can create content that aligns with a specific brand's vision.
• The difficulty of proper AI prompting and how it can be solved.
• How to push AI to become more creative and striking a balance between innovation and automation.
• Why being an entrepreneur and building a business requires one to embrace uncertainty and to navigate ambiguity.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast, we spoke with Nirav Shah, Founding Partner of Versor Investments, about systematic investing and how technology is reshaping the financial landscape. Nirav explained how quantitative trading models use data to identify patterns and opportunities in global markets, allowing for trades at scale across various asset classes.

Some of the topics that Nirav covered in detail include:

• Quantitative models operate at scale, meaning they can apply algorithms across various asset classes and geographies, from equity markets to commodities, currencies, and futures. This ability to scale is a key advantage for systematic firms.
• While systematic investing might seem purely data-driven, Shah highlighted that every algorithm starts with economic intuition. Before a model is built, there needs to be a reasoned hypothesis—an understanding of why a specific signal should correlate with future market behavior.
• Nirav believes that Versor’s edge lies in its use of alternative data—non-traditional datasets that aren’t created specifically for finance but can be harnessed to generate investment insights. This alternative data include news sentiment, social media sentiment, regulatory filings, credit card data, and app or web traffic.
• Even with advanced algorithms, there are times when human intervention can occur. Nirav explained that Versor typically lets models run without interference. However, in rare situations their investment committee steps in to adjust strategies.
• While alternative data provides a significant advantage, Nirav points out that it is operationally challenging to work with. Quant firms like Versor have developed a unique ability to handle large datasets, process information quickly, and connect with multiple data vendors.
• Nirav is optimistic about the future of systematic investing. He believes that we are at the cusp of an AI revolution, where technology will touch every part of the investment process. The increasing availability of alternative datasets, combined with the rapid advancement of AI tools, is creating a new landscape for investment firms.

In this episode, Kabeer Naqvi, Chairman of the Pakistan Microfinance Network, shared his journey in using microfinance to drive financial inclusion in Pakistan.

Some of the topics Kabeer covered in detail include:

• Launching EasyPaisa revolutionized financial inclusion in Pakistan by leveraging mobile penetration to bridge its banking gap.
• The critical link between financial AND social inclusion, particularly in Pakistan's rural areas.
• By immersing himself in the communities his microfinance initiatives were intended to help, Kabeer gained an authentic understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by local populations.
• While microfinance serves small entrepreneurs and commercial banks cater to large businesses, a significant gap remains in the support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The "missing middle" represents a crucial area for future development, as addressing it could lead to broader economic growth and stability.
• An estimated 30 million children in Pakistan are out of school, a figure that presents a formidable challenge to the nation’s future workforce. Naqvi expressed his concern that without proper education and vocational training, Pakistan’s youth could become a liability rather than an asset. His call to action for both the private sector and government is clear: education reform and support for underserved populations must be a national priority.

In this episode, we dive into the future of business growth with Yoni Kozminski, co-Founder and CEO ofMultiplyMii, who tells us how leveraging high-performance remote teams is the secret weapon for scaling profitable companies.

Some of the topics that Yoni covered in detail include:

• The democratization of talent allows SMEs to achieve the same level of productivity and profitability as large corporations—if they know how to harness remote talent effectively.
• The Philippines' 120 million-strong population, combined with a robust education system where English is the official medium of instruction, makes it a prime destination for outsourcing talent.
• Outsourcing isn’t just about paying lower salaries. The real advantage lies in operational savings and the ability to reinvest those savings into growth.
• You need to be crystal clear about your business’s needs before onboarding remote talent. If your company’s internal processes aren’t solid, hiring remotely will only magnify those inefficiencies.
• Having a well-documented set of procedures is crucial to scaling a business, especially when remote teams are involved.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast with Monica Millares, Principal Product Ways of Working at BigPay, we explored the complexities of financial management and why technology alone isn’t the answer. Even the best technology fails if it doesn’t solve a real problem or if it’s too complicated for users to engage with confidently.

Some of the topics Monica covered in more detail:

• Financial inclusion isn’t just about access—it’s about accessibility
• Financial literacy and financial inclusion are two distinct yet interdependent challenges. It’s not enough to simply provide access to services; you need to ensure that users understand how to manage their finances effectively.
• Instead of overwhelming users with complex products, fintech companies should focus on solving one key problem that matters to the user. By doing this, companies can earn trust, which in turn opens the door to introducing users to more sophisticated financial services.
• Financial products should be designed for simplicity and impact - the impact of a financial product is not just about what it offers but how it solves real-life problems.
• With AI becoming increasingly powerful, fintech companies have an unprecedented opportunity to create personalized, scalable solutions that can impact millions of lives.

The Smart Delivery Expo 2025 proved one thing above all: The future of logistics isn’t coming—it’s already here.

The question is, are you ready to adapt?

The conversations at CyberSec Asia 2025 highlighted a critical truth: security must be proactive, continuous, and deeply embedded into business operations. SMEs and mid-sized companies are now prime targets for cyberattacks, as they often lack the infrastructure to defend themselves effectively. 

Meanwhile, AI-driven attacks and quantum computing threats are evolving at a pace that traditional security methods cannot counter. With businesses shifting more of their operations online and relying on interconnected systems, cybersecurity is now a 24/7 battle that demands real-time monitoring and rapid response. The question is no longer if an attack will happen but when—and whether organizations will be prepared to handle it.

CyberSec Asia 2025 made it abundantly clear that the cybersecurity landscape is evolving faster than most organizations can keep up with. The companies and governments that treat cybersecurity as a priority will be the ones that thrive in the digital future. The question is no longer if you will be attacked, but when. 

Are you ready?

DBS Bank’s transformation journey, detailed by Nimish Panchmatia, the Chief Data and Transformation Officer at DBS Bank, offers a masterclass in how businesses can use artificial intelligence, process innovation and customer obsession to redefine themselves.

Some of the topics that Nimish covered in detail included:

• The integration of structured data allows DBS to make data analytics a core driver of decision-making.
• While traditional AI has matured significantly, generative AI's potential is still being tested and validated.
• Customer obsessions must drive innovation.
• How DBS has embedded a startup mentality across its organization, encouraging experimentation where employees feel empowered to test new ideas.
• AI is also important for improving employee experiences.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast, Paul Quickenden, Chief Commercial Officer of Easy Crypto, shares key insights into the evolving world of cryptocurrency.

Some of the topics that Paul covered in detail include:

• There is a significant shift in how younger generations think about wealth and investment.
• The importance of the core innovation of blockchain technology - decentralization.
• The potential weakening of the U.S. dollar's dominance as the global reserve currency and its impact on international trade.
• Fractionalization of assets and if it is really a thing.
• Despite the growing interest in crypto, the user experience remains a significant hurdle for new investors.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast, we spoke with Adrienne Enggist, Senior Director of Product at Booking.com, to explore how AI is set to revolutionize travel.

Some of the topics that Adrienne discussed include:

• How AI can structure unstructured data to create a more agentic relationship, where it anticipates a traveler’s needs without the traveler having to micromanage every detail.
• The idea that customer reviews can be gamified or manipulated, leading to mismatched expectations. Adrienne pointed out that AI can help tackle this issue by filtering out misleading or irrelevant information from reviews.
• The subtle difference between 'personalization' and 'relevance'. It’s not about knowing every detail of a traveler’s life; it’s about showing them the most relevant options for their trip based on context and past behavior.
• Importantly, Adrienne doesn’t believe the human touch in travel will disappear. Instead, AI will help scale human interactions, allowing customer service agents to focus on complex issues while AI handles the more mundane tasks.
• The importance for large platforms, including Booking, to use and manage all of the data they gather with care and ensure at all levels that data is protected and privacy is paramount.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast, we speak with Nicolas Deppenweiler, co-founder and CEO of tessera, a company laser focused on revolutionizing the outdated event ticketing industry.

Some of the topics Nicolas covered in detail included:

• Tessera was born out of a realization that ticketing, an industry generating billions in annual revenue, is unnecessarily complicated, clunky, and ripe for innovation.
• In today's world, where convenience reigns supreme, people expect to accomplish tasks in seconds. Yet, buying event tickets remains a tedious experience that often deters potential attendees.
• Big, incumbent ticketing platforms generally hold onto the revenue from ticket sales until after an event takes place, leaving organizers in difficult cash flow positions.
• Legacy platforms have become too big to adapt to modern tech stacks, opening the space for startups like tessera to modernize and innovate.
• The secondary market for tickets is also broken and can and should be integrated into one, seamless ecosystem.
• Data is the future of event management.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast, Daniel Lim, founder and CEO of Pi-xcels, shares how his company is reshaping the payment industry by partnering with global device manufacturers and payment service providers to scale globally.

Some of the topics that Daniel covered in detail included:

• Embedding technology into existing systems is a better strategy than outright industry disruption
• Global scalability is easier with real strategic partnerships.
• Matching the speed of Pi-xcels growth trajectory with that of its global partners made global expansion that much easier
• The first partnership Pi-xcels signed might have been the hardest...but FOMO can move competing device makers to adopt the new technology so they are not left out.
• Venture-funding allowed Pi-xcels to grow without the pressure to rush into markets that weren’t ready, but it also required careful communication with investors about the realities of working with multinational corporations.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast, we explore a refreshing approach to entrepreneurship with Oliver Palmer, co-founder of DQ Ventures. Instead of encouraging aspiring entrepreneurs to quit their jobs and dive headfirst into a startup, Oliver advocates for a more measured strategy.

Some of the topics Oliver covered in detail included:

• Why DQ Ventures focuses on working with slightly more mature founders—individuals who have been in the workforce for 10 to 20 years. These founders often have significant experience and insights into their industry, making them well-suited to identify and solve real problems.
• One of the most powerful insights from Oliver was the idea of making "little bets"---testing ideas in small, manageable ways before committing to a full-scale launch.
• The importance of investing in people, not simply in ideas., leading to the importance of finding co-founders who are not only passionate but also compatible.
• One of the key milestones DQ Ventures looks for before advising founders to quit their jobs is external validation.
• Entrepreneurial journeys do not have to be a high-wire acts. By taking a measured approach, making small bets, and validating ideas before fully committing, aspiring entrepreneurs can significantly increase their chances of success while minimizing risk.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast, Bhavik Vashi, Managing Director for APAC and the Middle East at Carta, shares valuable insights from his experience helping startups and investors navigate the complex world of cap table management and private financial markets.

Some of the deeper topics that Bhavik covered in detail include:

• Managing a startup’s cap table is one of the most foundational yet complex tasks a founder can face...and founders should aim to keep their cap tables as simple as possible.
• Choosing the right investors is key—trust, mutual goals, and alignment matter far more than almost anything else.
• Singapore ranks highly on the global scale for startup innovation and continues to mature into a world-class ecosystem.
• A shared skepticism about the concept of stealth startups, notting that founders who hide their ideas might miss out on valuable feedback and iteration opportunities.
• Most importantly, how Carta is transforming into an operating system for private financial markets, serving not just startups but also the investors who fund them.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast, Karl Mohan, General Manager for APAC, Middle East, and Africa, and Global Head of Banking Partnerships at Crypto.com, challenges everything you think you know about money. Karl argues that the future of finance lies not in the rigid systems of traditional banks but in the innovative world of decentralized finance (DeFi).

Some of the topics Karl covered in detail include:

• Karl sees DeFi and TradFi as two sides of the same coin. This hybrid model will power the future of finance, blending the robustness and reach of TradFi with the innovative, decentralized capabilities of DeFi.
• Karl’s passion for financial inclusion, particularly in underserved markets. He believes that crypto has the power to level the playing field.
• Karl highlighted that regulatory clarity is crucial to driving consumer adoption. The more clearly defined the rules and safeguards around crypto, the more likely people are to trust and use these services.
• Crypto.com's three-pronged strategy to reach 1 billion users.
• Karl emphasized that financial literacy is a key part of driving crypto adoption and Crypto.com University is an important part of this goal.

In this episode, we spoke to Zohar Bronfman, the CEO of Pecan AI about how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the way we understand human behavior and make business decisions. Predictive AI focuses on analyzing historical data to forecast future events, while generative AI creates new content or insights based on its learned patterns. Their combination offers powerful tools for businesses, allowing them to anticipate customer behavior and engage in more effective decision-making processes by simulating possible outcomes.

Some of the topics that Zohar covered in more detail:

• The idea that human behavior is largely predictable. A sophisticated AI could predict that you're going to pick up a glass of water moments before you even realize it yourself.
• Predictive AI and Generative AI are related, but serve different purposes and combining them could create revolutionary outcomes for businesses.
• AI is rapidly becoming as ubiquitous and essential as electricity and will soon be embedded in our everyday lives and business operations without most people realizing it.
• Human biases affect decision-making in ways we may not be aware of, but these biases can be corrected by AI.
• AI may never fully replicate the intentionality of human decision-making, but it can augment it in ways that allow us to make better, more informed choices.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast, we dive deep into the world of AI and data centers with Rich Farrell, APAC Director of Digitalization, Cybersecurity, and Data Centers at Eaton. Rich reveals how AI is one of the most transformative technologies of our time, but many businesses rushing to adopt it don't fully understand why.

Some of the big topics Rich covered in more detail:

• We highlighted that AI could be the most significant technological transformation we’ve seen. AI is not just a topic for tech insiders anymore; it has entered public consciousness and is driving conversations at the highest levels of business and government.
• The fear of falling behind competitors and customer expectations often drives the decision to adopt AI. Yet, without a well-defined purpose, companies risk implementing AI without seeing tangible benefits.
• Despite AI’s growing importance, there’s a glaring gap in expertise. This talent shortage makes it difficult for companies to implement and manage AI solutions effectively.
• One of the biggest dilemmas is the tension between AI's growth and sustainability goals. When big tech companies committed to being carbon-neutral by 2030, AI wasn’t on the radar.
• Data centers, the backbone of the digital world, are undergoing a transformation to support AI’s energy demands. New designs are incorporating renewable energy sources like nuclear and grid-aware devices that can optimize power usage and even sell energy back to the grid.

In the Asia Tech Podcast’s conversation with Peter Man, General Manager for Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Macau at Red Hat, we explored the complex landscape of digital transformation in Hong Kong and how open source technology plays a pivotal role in its future.

Some of the topics that Peter covered in detail:

• Geopolitical challenges drive the need for open source. Peter explained that open source technology offers a politically neutral, transparent solution in an increasingly polarized world.
• Digital transformation is Hong Kong is less about speed and more about leveraging technology to tap into new markets and customer bases, particularly through expanding into the Greater Bay Area.
• Open source, by its nature, is transparent—there are no hidden backdoors or trojan horses in the code, and businesses can audit and compile the code themselves.
• One of the biggest advantages of open source software is that it frees companies from the potential of vendor lock-in.
• Open source software fosters a collaborative approach to innovation, where the entire community benefits from shared knowledge and contributions.

In a dynamic conversation with Jayne Chan, Head of Startups at Invest Hong Kong, I had the privilege of exploring the intricacies of Hong Kong's startup landscape. Our discussion touched on the city's role as a financial hub, the impact of global talent, and the evolving tech environment that continues to shape its entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Some of the topics that Jayne covered in detail:

• Hong Kong's startup ecosystem is international and diverse. 27% of Hong Kong’s startup founders hail from outside the city, representing a rich blend of ideas and innovations from places like Mainland China, the UK, the US, France, and Australia.
• Hong Kong's status as one of the world’s leading financial centers provides a natural foundation for a thriving fintech sector. Ranked third globally, just behind New York and London, the city attracts financial professionals who often pivot into FinTech entrepreneurship.
• While FinTech dominates, Hong Kong’s startup ecosystem is increasingly diversifying into deep tech, biotech, and green tech...standing as the second-largest fundraising hub for biotech globally.
• Hong Kong’s unique geographical and economic positioning as a conduit to Mainland China could be a distinct advantage for startups. With a population of 86 million and a combined GDP of $2 trillion, the GBA offers immense market potential for both B2B and B2C startups.
• Invest Hong Kong doesn’t just promote Hong Kong as a destination for startups—it plays an active role in helping startups scale. Invest HK's connection initiatives act as a marketplace where startups can showcase their solutions and find the resources they need to grow.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast featuring Jon Stona, Vice President of Global Marketing at Airwallex, we explored how the company has revolutionized global payments by addressing real business pain points.

Some of the topics Jon covered in detail:

• How the company founders, who were running a cafe in Melbourne, were constantly frustrated by the complexity and cost of paying international suppliers.
• Airwallex's global reach has been built on the foundation of deep local knowledge, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region.
• While tech is essential, real transformation happens when technology is combined with human relationships.
• How Airwallex is creating a modular financial operating system that is built for scale.
• Building a challenger brand requires trust, credibility, and cultural connection.

We spoke with Igor Hofman from D-ID and he covered:

• How humans are wired to interact with other humans. This interaction, however, does not always have to involve a real person. If avatars are highly realistic and mimic human behavior closely enough, they can satisfy the brain’s need for human interaction.
• The pace of technological development in the avatar space is nothing short of astonishing. The advancements are moving so fast that it’s plausible to imagine a future where interacting with avatars could become indistinguishable from real human interaction.
• How avatars are already transforming marketing and sales. Avatars are increasingly being used to create personalized marketing content, enabling companies to target their audiences with extreme precision.
• One of the most promising applications of avatars is in customer service. Some companies are now using avatars to enhance or even replace traditional chatbots. Avatars bring a more personal and engaging touch.
• Igor sees the future in natural user interfaces (NUIs), where users interact with AI and digital systems as if they were speaking to another person. NUIs could revolutionize the way we engage with digital content.

As we move further into the digital age, the lines between our physical and virtual lives are becoming increasingly blurred. We already spend a significant portion of our lives in front of screens, and this digital immersion is only growing deeper. The future of the internet lies not just in new technologies but in how those technologies empower users to own and control their data, identities, and content. In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast, we dive deep into the future of the internet with Aaron McDonald, Founder and CEO of Futureverse.

Some of the topics Aaron covered in detail include:

• He has a nuanced view of the metaverse, one that challenges the notion that it’s a future concept. He explained that the metaverse is already part of our lives. The digital world and the physical world are tightly intertwined, and the future of the internet is about enhancing this immersion and fostering user ownership of data and content.
• The concept of self-sovereign identity, where we control our personal data and only share what is necessary, when it is necessary.
• Making technology feel like magic and creating products that hide the complexity and provide seamless user experiences.
• How interoperability, particularly in gaming and digital assets, is one of the hardest challenges the metaverse faces. The ability to use digital items across different platforms and experiences is key to making the metaverse a reality.
• The belief that we’re at a critical juncture where the physical and digital worlds are merging, and the decisions we make now will influence how seamlessly (and safely) they do so.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast, Tianwei Liu, a co-Founder and CEO of StraitsX, discusses the evolving landscape of digital currencies, including stablecoins, central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), and tokenized bank deposits.

Some of the topics Tianwei covered in detail:

• Emphasizing how vital it is to empower developers with the right tools to innovate. By building better APIs, StraitsX opened up a world of possibilities for other entrepreneurs and engineers to create more efficient payment systems.
• Working closely with the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) to ensure StraitsX' operations met regulatory standards. Tianwei explained how StraitsX was the first fintech in Singapore to be granted the widely accepted stored value facility license, which allowed them to scale operations.
• Stablecoins represent a significant evolution in the payment ecosystem, offering the benefits of blockchain technology while maintaining the stability of traditional currencies.
• Tianwei highlighted the immense potential of programmable money, which allows for the automation of business logic—such as expiration dates, discount vouchers, or conditional payments.
• Despite the complexity of blockchain and the technologies behind it, Tianwei believes the ultimate goal is to make these innovations invisible to the end user.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast, John Lombard, CEO for APAC at NTT DATA, shared his leadership journey and key insights gained from a career spanning consulting, international business, and technology. John also discussed the future of AI and its transformative potential, comparing it to the impact of electricity.

Some of the topics John discussed in more detail include:

• The importance of flexibility, cultural awareness, and the ability to make informed decisions based on past cycles
• He emphasized that AI will be human-led in the near term, supporting rather than replacing human intelligence
• The growing demand for lightweight, specialized AI models
• John further stressed NTT DATA’s commitment to sustainability, particularly in reducing energy consumption in data centers and developing green technologies.
• The need for companies and individuals to invest in AI skills

Financial empowerment, especially for women, is a critical yet often overlooked aspect of personal development. Recently, the Asia Tech Podcast spoke with Pauline Kirk, the founder of Femvestorsglobal. Pauline's mission to empower women through financial literacy and independence is both inspiring and a call for change.

Some of the topics that Pauline discussed in detail:

• Pauline uses the term "The Disney Effect" to describe how societal norms and childhood influences shape women’s attitudes toward money.
• Pauline candidly shared her own experiences with financial highs and lows, and turned her "mess" into a message, advocating for financial literacy and empowerment.
• She emphasizes that understanding and managing one's emotions around money is crucial to developing a healthier relationship with money.
• Embracing failure as a necessary step toward success. In the context of financial empowerment, it means acknowledging past mistakes without letting them define your future.
• Financial independence starts with good habits, stressing the importance of developing and maintaining habits that align with long-term financial goals.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast, we explore the rapidly evolving startup ecosystem in Southeast Asia with Fannie Soubiele, Head of Venture Capital Business Development Southeast Asia at Google Cloud. Fannie shares her journey from working at some of the region's earliest venture capital firms to her current role at Google Cloud and her involvement with Epic Angels, a female-led angel investment network.

Some of the topics that Fannie covered included:

• Resilience as a fundamental trait for any successful entrepreneur. Maintaining the determination to keep moving forward, learning from failures, and staying committed to the vision despite setbacks.
• The evolution of Southeast Asia'a startup ecosystem. It is not just about the number of startups but also about the increasing sophistication of the support networks, including accelerators, VCs, and government initiatives.
• How visionary leaders are crucial for setting the direction of a startup and rallying their team around a common goal. Their ability to see beyond the immediate challenges and focus on long-term objectives make the difference between success and failure.
• A thriving startup ecosystem has far-reaching impacts beyond just economic growth. It can drive social change by providing new ways to address societal challenges and by fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.
• The potential for angel investing to democratize wealth creation. Through platforms like Epic Angels, experienced professionals from diverse backgrounds can contribute to and benefit from the startup ecosystem.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast featuring Rob Bradley, Senior Vice President of Digital Revenue Strategy and Operations at CNN International Commercial, we explored the profound impact of technology on the media industry.

Some of the topics that Rob discussed in detail included:

• The media industry has always been at the forefront of technological innovation.
• How programmatic advertising changed the game and made the sales role more complex and valuable.
• While technology enables scale and efficiency of ad placement, a human touch still drives storytelling and creativity.
• The necessity to be data-driven to build trust and maintain long-term client relationships.
• How the media industry’s evolution has been relentless, with new platforms, technologies, and consumer behaviors constantly reshaping the landscape.

"I want Woodstock to be a go to place for any investing so whether you're investing in as you know, stocks or bonds or crypto and FX, whatever that is. And our priorities will obviously change, and things would take a long time, but for sure, Woodstock could be a good, a good place where people trust and, you know, they if I go there, I can get valuable advice, advices, and not like, recommend, stock recommends, but like, as in, like, you know, just people just giving, you know, coaching, like, oh, you know, this is, this is a good book, or this is a, you know, how you should think, like, that kind of advice, right? So this is where people should come for the community. They're valuable community, and also for easy access to markets, and also easy access to a bunch of different financial products, but also just be a better, you know, financial literate. Just increase your literacy in the markets, and therefore just become a better professional." - Brian Yun

The Asia Tech Podcast spoke with Brian Yun, a co-Founder and CEO of Woodstock, during which we explored key insights from his entrepreneurial journey. His experiences in engineering, trading, and tech, have equipped him with a unique skill set that he has leveraged to build Woodstock.

Some of the topics that Brian discussed in detail:

• How patience and persistence are essential for sustaining a business through its formative years.
• How his engineering background helps him understand and build complex systems.
• The immense power of social media in building audience, community and engagement.
• Investing is as much about understanding human psychology as it is about financial acumen.
• The importance of improving financial literacy and empowering individuals to make informed investment decisions.

"...when you bring technology into those communities, you can see how the child mortality goes down. You can see how the GDP in the country goes up. You can see all these fantastic innovations coming out of these countries and the entrepreneurship it sparks. But to answer your original question, it's easier to fundraise from organizations and businesses, because they really get it. " - Mea Thompson

The Asia Tech Podcast spoke to Mea Thompson, a co-founder and CCO of Unconnected.org. Mea shared some of her insights into the critical work of bridging the digital divide. Unconnected.org focuses on providing meaningful technology access to underserved communities worldwide, particularly emphasizing the importance of affordability and community-driven solutions.

Some of the issues Mea discussed in detail:

• The digital divide is more than just a connectivity issues. Many communities simply cannot afford the hardware and maintenance costs.
• Community-driven initiatives are key to driving connectivity success.
• Local teachers actually play a pivotal role in the digital inclusion process.
• Empowering local entrepreneurs to run and manage the telecommunications infrastructure, Unconnected ensures that its initiatives continue to benefit the community long after the initial setup.
• The impact of providing internet access goes beyond mere connectivity. It can transform communities economically, socially, and culturally.
• The sheer joy of making a difference in the world and seeing real, tangible impact.

"I think one of my biggest values as a human being is curiosity. I do try to show up a lot every day with curiosity. And so I think that the difference then is that instead of approaching something with judgment, I often approach it from a place of curiosity. I'm like, okay, well, tell me more. I also have a master's degree in conflict resolution, which is a really interesting background for an investor." - Kalsoom Lakhani

The Asia Tech Podcast was joined by Kalsoom Lakhani, a co-Founder and General Partner of I2I Ventures. As a daughter of a Bangladeshi mother and a Pakistani father, Kalsoom grew up with a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, which shaped her into a third culture kid adept at navigating diverse environments. This background fueled her curiosity and empathy, key traits that have significantly influenced her professional life and her approach to investing in Pakistan's nascent but growing startup landscape.

Some of the topics Kalsoom covered in detail:

• The evolution of the Pakistani startup ecosystem, which was still nascent when I2I was started in 2011
• The challenges of ecosystem building requires the convergence of multiple elements—entrepreneurs, investors, regulatory frameworks, and support systems.
• The resilience and ingenuity of Pakistani founders, who often operate with limited resources in challenging environments.
• The growing influence of artificial intelligence and the importance of addressing its ethical and societal implications.
• A recurring theme was the importance of embracing nuance and complexity. Whether in cultural identity, ecosystem building, or technology, Kalsoom advocates for a deeper, more empathetic understanding.

"I think what I've learned is, if I can do it this way, then anyone can. And the qualification is by doing it. It is always daunting, I think, and it was more of an internal struggle for me to make that first investment, to write that first check...I'm just more accepting of the fact that I'm not going to be great at something the first time, and that's okay, but the only way I'm going to become great is by doing it more times and getting better..." - Elena Kersey

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast Elena Kersey, the Community and Partnerships Lead at Epic Angels, shared key insights into angel investing. She emphasized that individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those without finance or tech experience, can succeed in angel investing with a willingness to learn and a passion for innovation.

Some of the topics that Elena covered in detail:

• The importance of the support system provided by a group of female investors, many of whom are also new to startup investing.
• Seeking out founders with a deep commitment to solving a problem, often based on personal experiences.
• Another critical lesson is the importance of investment and sector diversification.
• Elena stressed that one qualification for being an angel investor is by doing it. The experience of making that first investment, even if small, is invaluable.
• Angel investing is not a get-rich-quick scheme and a long-term perspective is essential.

In the rapidly evolving landscape of AI and filmmaking, the intersection of creativity and technology is producing groundbreaking results. I had the pleasure of speaking with Jud Willmont, the owner and Producer / Director at Willmountain Films, and Jacky Lin, a founding partner at Creative Fitting, to delve into their recent collaboration on an AI-generated film for the Shanghai Film Festival entitled M.A.D.

Some of the topics they covered in detail included:

• The importance of a hybrid approach in filmmaking. While AI can handle the heavy lifting of creating visual content, the essence of storytelling still relies on human creativity.
• The suggestion that AI should be treated as an artist rather than just a tool.
• The astonishing speed at which AI technology is advancing. They noted that the AI models they were using evolved even during the short three-week competition period.
• The significant challenges in using AI for film production is maintaining consistency, especially with character movements and expressions.
• As AI-generated content becomes more prevalent, the unique perspectives and creative inputs from humans will continue to be what sets truly exceptional work apart.

And...

On Friday June 14th, the Global AI Film Marathon held the award ceremony in Shanghai Film Art Center. Jud and Jacky's film, M.A.D, won the Audience Award!

This is the official announcement of the winning teams in Chinese: 

https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/N1IUAhtK6z4WQPYwEP_McQ

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast, Sumeet Puri, Chief Technology Solutions Officer at Solace, shared deep insights on the transformative power of real-time data and event-driven architecture. He explained how advancements in network and computing capabilities have enabled industries to transition from traditional data handling to real-time data processing. 

Some of the topics that Sumeet covered in detail:

• The evolution from traditional data handling to real-time data processing.
• Real-time data is no longer a luxury reserved for high-frequency trading desks. It has permeated various industries, enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency. 
• The importance of event-driven architecture in facilitating real-time data movement. This architecture operates on the principle of event meshes, which are networks of event brokers that handle data in a publish-subscribe model. 
• Real-time data processing democratizes access to information and services. Puri highlights initiatives like Singapore's SGQR and India's UPI as examples where real-time data movement has enabled even the smallest merchants to participate in the digital economy.
• The concept of 'Event Storming' workshops is an innovative approach to identifying and leveraging real-time data opportunities. By breaking down business processes into individual events, companies can uncover previously hidden efficiencies and opportunities.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast, featuring Gene Yu, a Founder and CEO of Blackpanda, we explored innovative approaches to cybersecurity and the vital role of crisis response. Gene’s unique background as a West Point graduate and a former Green Beret significantly shaped BlackPanda's approach.

Some of the topics Gene covered in more detail included:

• By wrapping their cybersecurity emergency response services in an insurance-like product and a SaaS platform, BlackPanda has made high-quality cybersecurity accessible to a broader market at a significantly reduced cost.
• Given the sensitive nature of cybersecurity, the background of the founders and the reputation of the company play a crucial role in gaining clients' trust.
• One of the most profound insights Gene shared was about transferring skills and methodologies across different domains. He spoke about his transition from physical security and crisis response in the military to the digital realm of cybersecurity. This shift was facilitated by his ability to apply strategic and tactical principles from his military experience to cybersecurity challenges.
• BlackPanda’s focus on emergency response and crisis management in cybersecurity has allowed them to carve out a distinct identity in a new and growing market.
• Most importantly, Gene shared a gripping, true story about rescuing a family friend that had been kidnapped by Abu Sayyaf, an experience that profoundly impacted his life. This mission highlighted the importance of resilience, adaptability, and human connection in crisis situations. Amazon commissioned Gene to write a book about the incident that will be released on October 1, 2024 and you can find it here.

The journey of entrepreneurship is often fraught with challenges, triumphs, and valuable lessons. Asia Tech Podcast had the pleasure of conversing with Marcus Yeung, a seasoned entrepreneur and investment banker. Marcus is the co-Founder and Managing Partner at Match.Asia and the Founder of Seabridge Partners. Our discussion provided important insights into the world of entrepreneurship, particularly within the context of the evolving landscape of technology and investment banking.

Some of the topics Marcus covered in detail:

• Embracing failure and the important learnings that result from it
• The power of long-term relationships
• The role of technology in scaling businesses
• The importance of integrity, humility, and gratitude
• A future where investment banking is significantly disrupted by technology
• The importance of long-term relationships and career evolution