Embracing A New Era Of Aging
From Boardrooms To Living Rooms: Is Remote Work Still Relevant Today?
How Dazzling Is Star Power For Startups?
6 Ways To Bring Good Fengshui Into Your Office
The New Guardian Of Our Planet: How AI Is Revolutionizing Environmental Protection Efforts
Embracing The ESG Revolution In Business
STEPHON MARBURY ON ENTREPRENEURSHIP, CHINA AND THE POWER OF GIVING
Relena Sei
Welcome to the 2024 issue of Jumpstart Magazine. It has been a riveting journey and we are thrilled to present our "Phoenix Issue”, a celebration of rebirth and renewal in the world of entrepreneurship, business and technology.
In recent years, we have all faced unprecedented challenges that have reshaped
our communities and environments. Yet, through these trials, incredible stories of resilience and innovation have emerged. Entrepreneurs around the globe have embraced change and adapted to new business models, proving that even in such times, there is room for growth and success. This issue is dedicated to those fearless founders who have not only survived but thrived, using their creativity and determination to navigate through the storm.
The Jumpstart team continues to be committed to delivering insightful content that captures the evolving landscape of tech and business. From deep dives into groundbreaking technologies to profiles of visionary leaders, we aim to inspire and inform. In this "Phoenix Issue", you will find stories of startups that have turned adversity into opportunity, leveraging the latest trends, technologies and innovative strategies to rise above challenges. These narratives are not just about survival; they
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A great gift idea for students, founders and anyone who wants to learn more about the innovation sector in Asia and beyond.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Relena Sei
EXECUTIVE CHAIRPERSON James Kwan
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Relena Sei
EDITOR Bonnie Li
ASSISTANT EDITOR AND DIGITAL EDITOR Alinda Gupta
PARTNERSHIP AND MARKETING MANAGER Ivy Kwong
PROJECT DIRECTOR Arjita Ganguly
are about pivoting and growing in a rapidly changing world.
At Jumpstart, we have also been evolving and expanding our initiatives. I’m particularly thrilled to share that my co-founder, James Kwan and the Jumpstart team, have been consulting and advising numerous fast growing startups in Asia. Their expertise in strategy, fundraising and business development has been instrumental in helping these companies stay on track and achieve their ambitious goals. We are proud to collaborate with such a dedicated and effective partner who shares our commitment to fostering entrepreneurial success.
To our readers, thank you once again for your continuous support and for being an integral part of who we are at Jumpstart. We invite you to join us on this journey by providing feedback, sharing your ideas, and engaging with us. Welcome back to Jumpstart Magazine.
Unique content, press releases, directories, videos, and more.
DESIGN ASSOCIATE Jomar (Jose) Teves
SENIOR MARKETING MANAGER Taniya Chamoli
PROJECT COORDINATOR Annyesha Ganguly
OPERATIONS AND MARKETING ASSISTANT Sarene Butao
STAFF WRITERS Tanvi Dayal, Nasir Ahmed, Sayantika Chatterjee, Veeksha Dechamma, Lochlan Cheuk, Vedanshi Sharma, Siddhesh Bawker
Copyright © 2024 Jumpstart Media Ltd. The contents of the magazine are fully protected by copyright and nothing may be reprinted without permission. The publisher and editors accept no responsibility in respect to any products, goods or services that may be advertised or referred to in this issue or for any errors, omissions, or mistakes in any such advertisements or references. The mention of any specific companies or products in articles or advertisements does not imply that they are endorsed or recommended by this magazine or its publisher in preference to others of a similar nature which are not mentioned or advertised. Published articles do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of Jumpstart Magazine.
Story Hoops to Hustle: Stephon Marbury on Entrepreneurship, China and the Power of Giving
NBA Icon Stephon Marbury’s journey from Coney Island to China.
Redefining Corporate Success: Embracing the ESG Revolution in Business
How businesses are shifting to a more sustainable future trajectory
From Collaborating to Owning: Is the Next Step for Influencers Entrepreneurship?
A look into how influencers are venturing into the entreprenurial space
Menopausal Women Deserve a Support Ecosystem: EverCalm Has Created One
An innovative and comprehensive support system for Menopausal Women
STARTUP TOOLKIT
Airwallex for Startups: Making Globalization a Reality for Hong Kong Businesses From Hong Kong to the world, your business empowered by Airwallex.
Money Evolution: The Rise of Cryptocurrencies in a Post-Fiat World
From barter to blockchain, the concept of money has evolved and might be headed in a new direction.
FOUNDER STORIES
Start-up Express International 2023: The Top 10 Winners and What Lies Ahead
A look at the winning businesses at the Start-up Express International 2023.
FOUNDER STORIES
Carlton Cheng on Building a Smarter World with Flybox
Tracking inventory the smart way, an innovative solution, Flybox.
FOUNDER STORIES
The Future Is Cashless: How eftPay Is Catalyzing Hong Kong’s Digital Payment Revolution
A look into the future of digital payments and its implementation.
Tiny Particles, Titanic Problem: The Growing Threat of Microplastics to Human Health
How to reduce micro-plastic consumption.
Turning Back Time: The New Age of Anti-Aging at LaVida Clinic
A holistic new approach to aging.
The New Guardian of Our Planet: How AI is Revolutionizing Environmental Protection Efforts
AI’s integration in environmental strategies is proving crucial for achieving global sustainability goals.
No Business Today, Just Linguistics
Immerse yourself in the setenity of words.
Global Innovators Gathered at Hong Kong’s InnoEX and EFSE 2024 for a Tech Spectacle
A review of Hong Kong’s InnoEX & EFSE 2024 technology showcase.
Nasir is a staff writer at Jumpstart. Originally from India, Nasir is an aspiring fiction writer who loves to explore classic books, screenplays, films, and emerging technologies around the world. When he is not working, he likes to sip coffee while reading short stories. nasir@jumpstartmag.com
Read his feature on page 80.
Tanvi is a staff writer at Jumpstart. She is a poet, an intensely curious person and a seasoned collector of hobbies and hyperfixations. She is a devoted lover of the arts and can be found happily making her way through any galleries, libraries, museums and cultural festivals in the vicinity. tanvi@jumpstartmag.com
Read her feature on page 22.
Arjita is the Project Director at Jumpstart. She is an ENFJ who adores innovation, relishes as a foodie, and delights in crafting short films. Immersed in art, photography, and yoga, she discovers solace in nature’s embrace, weaving a tapestry of creativity and tranquility in her life. arjita@jumpstartmag.com Read her feature on page 44.
Sayantika is a staff writer at Jumpstart. She is an English literature and cultural studies graduate with a keen interest in South-East Asian languages. She is also passionate about heart-warming movies, series, and books and loves exploring different cuisines. sayantika@jumpstartmag.com
Read her feature on page 39.
Veeksha Dechamma is a staff writer at Jumpstart. She is passionate about dance, cooking and savoring spicy street food. Her guilty pleasure is singing pop songs with quirky lyrics. Passionate about culture, ecology, and fine arts, she aspires to author a book on these topics someday. veeksha@jumpstartmag.com
Read her review on page 78.
Alinda is the Assistant and Digital Editor at Jumpstart magazine, where she explores technology, AI, marketing, and gender equality. With over five years of journalism experience and a Master’s in Marketing from Australia, she has a keen eye for innovation and is an avid podcast enthusiast. alinda@jumpstartmag.com
Read her feature on page 29.
Stephen is a partner at Collis Capital Limited, a Hong Kong SFC licensed company. He is also an independent director at a leading crypto-focused Nasdaq listed Company, Stephen has cross regional investment and business experience in various industries including FMCG, medical healthcare, fintech and biotech. stephen.chan@collis-capital.com
Read his feature on page 74.
Marvel Jianghua Feng is a committed environmental advocate, and has been engaged in the environmental field for many years, promoting the cause of environmental protection and sustainable development. Her works have been published in various academic journals. marvel.Feng@firsteuro.co
Read her feature on page 08.
Yurong Guo is a student in the IBDP program at NOIC academy with an interest in business management and economics. In her spare time, she likes to browse current hot topics and enjoys debates. gyrxrxzxyj@gmail.com
Read her feature on page 14.
Lochlan is a staff writer at Jumpstart. He has a master’s in Translation from The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) and is working toward his Juris Doctor degree at CUHK Law. When he is not writing, you will find him in nature with his camera, capturing and cherishing moments with family and friends.
editorial@jumpstartmag.com
Read his feature on page 20.
Annyesha Ganguly is a contributor at STEM Unicorn and Azalvo Project, and Project coordinator at Jumpstart Media, she finds peace in the world of fiction and the serenity of nature. As an INFJ, she deeply values empathy and treasures meaningful conversations, particularly those focused on sustainable living. anne@jumpstartmag.com
Read her feature on page 60.
Samiksha is a digital enthusiast, entertainment junkie, unsolicited opinion giver, bona fide foodie, and self-lover. When she isn’t writing for Jumpstart Magazine, Samiksha enjoys traveling and discovering new places. samiksha@jumpstartmag.com
Read her feature on page 84.
Elon Chendong Ji is an Associate Professor at a top Chinese university, specializing in biomaterials for medical applications, environmental protection, and neuroscience. He is passionate about sharing cutting-edge global technology advancements. jcdbuct@163.com
Read his feature on page 10.
Minesh Pore, Chief AI Sourcing Visionary at SourcingGPT.ai, revolutionizes procurement globally. Co-founder and CEO of BuyHive, he drives ethical, impactful AI sourcing.
A renowned leader, his work profoundly influences global AI adoption in business.
minesh@thebuyhive.com
Read his feature on page 76.
Roy is an entrepreneur and expert on business strategy and pivoting. He is the Co-founder of 3S Global Foods Limited, and has held leadership positions at HK Unilever Co., Ltd., Carlsberg HK Co., Ltd. and San Miguel Brewery HK Co., Ltd. roy.yu@collis-capital.com
Read his feature on page 13.
James Kwan is an accomplished entrepreneur and investor with a strong passion for technology, innovation, and education. As the Executive Chairman of Jumpstart Media Limited and CEO of Tiger Group Duo Limited, James has made significant contributions to the investor and startup community globally. james@jumpstartmag.com
Read his feature on page 93.
Nidhi is a staff writer at Jumpstart. She is a self-confessed Bollywood lover, travel junkie, and food evangelist. She likes traveling and believes it is essential to take your mind off the daily monotony. nidhi@jumpstartmag.com
Read her feature on page 68.
Ivy is the Accelerator Program Manager and Partnership and Marketing Manager at Jumpstart. She is a Hong Kong-based entrepreneur who graduated from the University of Toronto with expertise in managing tech events, accelerators, and fundraising for early-stage startups. Ivy is also a wine lover and passionate about art. ivy@jumpstartmag.com
Read her feature on page 48.
Kengie Tang is an author with a keen interest in the natural world. You can find her bingeing anything featuring David Attenborough, teaching mat pilates or working on her pigeon-centric children’s book.
kengie@jumpstartmag.com
Read her feature on page 26.
We are always looking to work with talented writers to contribute or join our Journalist in Residence program.
Get in touch with us at [editors@jumpstartmag.com] to learn more.
Please include at least one writing sample in your email.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Bonnie is Jumpstart’s Editor. She enjoys indulging herself in the world of documentaries and podcasts so that she stays in the know about the latest happenings in current affairs. Oftentimes, you can find her going down the YouTube rabbit hole or flaneuring in her neighborhood.
bonnie@jumpstartmag.com
Read her feature on page 50.
Ning Yu holds a Master’s degree in Electronics and Computer Engineering from Cornell University, specializing in machine learning. With his extensive experience in machine learning, industrial IoT, and AI, he focuses on applying these technologies to the environmental protection industry.
ning4087@outlook.com
Read his feature on page 15.
Miss A Story
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#MakeInnovationMatter
From niche consideration to make-or-break necessity, ESG’s rise is redefining success in the corporate world. Can responsible capitalism save our planet?
By MARVEL JIANG HUA FENG
At a time when the world is grappling with pressing environmental issues and growing social awareness, the adoption of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles is no longer just a box to check. It is a major driver of innovation, stakeholder trust and long-term sustainability.
Corporations like Patagonia, Tesla, Microsoft and IKEA are proving that embracing ESG is not just ethically right but also a powerful competitive advantage. Whether it’s developing sustainable products, cultivating diverse workforce pipelines or institutionalizing ethical accountability, these corporate giants show that prioritizing ESG is key to long-term profitability and industry leadership.
Onthe environmental front, companies like Patagonia and Tesla are set-
ting a remarkable pace.
Patagonia, the well-known outdoor apparel brand, challenges traditional business models by heavily re-investing its profits into grassroots environmental groups and conservation initiatives around the world.
The company’s founder, Yvon Chouinard, even went so far as to give away 98% of Patagonia shares to the Holdfast Collective, a nonprofit dedicated to protecting the environment and fighting the climate crisis. The rest of the shares will fund the Patagonia Purpose Trust to ensure the company stays true to its environmental mission. Moreover, Patagonia offers numerous repair tutorials and a repair service that is sometimes free, providing a clear alternative to the fast-fashion industry that promotes frequent consumption.
Similarly, Tesla has disrupted the traditional automotive industry by steering it towards a greener, more sustainable future with electric vehicles and clean energy solutions. Despite early skeptics dismissing the idea that a Silicon Valley startup could disrupt the centuries-old automobile industry steeped in the fossil fuel era, Tesla charged ahead with relentless innovation and a laser focus on sustainable energy solutions. Suddenly, the idea of abandoning traditional combustion engines didn’t seem like a sacrifice, but an exciting leap into the future driven by zero tailpipe emissions.
Today, writing a check to a charity for the sake of good PR is no longer enough—society and stakeholders are demanding a more proactive approach
from companies to fulfill their social responsibility.
The social dimension of ESG emphasizes investing in people and the communities where companies operate. Microsoft has taken this idea to heart, making workforce development and uplifting underrepresented populations a core part of its social impact strategy.
Each year, Microsoft’s internship and upskilling programs offer thousands of students from diverse backgrounds a vital entry ramp into the technology industry. This goes beyond simple corporate philanthropy; it is a strategic investment in creating an inclusive tech talent pipeline that will drive future sector innovation.
Microsoft extends its social initiatives well beyond its workforce, committing billions to enhance global access to affordable broadband and digital literacy. Through partnerships with nonprofits and investments in education for underserved communities, Microsoft is breaking down longstanding barriers to digital equity and economic opportunity.
In a world where technological fluency is increasingly synonymous with career advancement, Microsoft is using its vast reach to democratize access. This commitment not only enhances Microsoft’s workforce but also supports its long-term business resilience by fostering a skilled, digitally empowered global talent pool.
In today’s world, ethical scrutiny and conscious consumerism are at an alltime high. Stakeholders are increasingly demanding that companies operate with transparency, accountability and ethical integrity. IKEA leads in this domain with its “IKEA Way” philosophy, which emphasizes rigorous ethical oversight as a core aspect of its brand identity. For IKEA, governance transcends mere compliance—it’s an operational philosophy that permeates every decision and product initiative.
IKEA meticulously evaluates the environmental and social impacts of its products before green-lighting new materials or product lines. Supporting this thorough approach is IKEA’s “IWAY”, its comprehensive supplier code of conduct. This set of guidelines mandates strict environmental and social standards, including sustainable materials use and proper worker housing conditions. Also, regular audits are
In today’s world, ethical scrutiny and conscious consumerism are at an all-time high. Stakeholders are increasingly demanding that companies operate with transparency, accountability and ethical integrity.
The ESG revolution marks a pivotal point in our societal evolution. At this juncture, defined by climatic urgencies, magnified socioeconomic disparities and leadership void in accountability, embracing ESG principles is now essential, not just for ethical reasons but as a fundamental component of sustainable business strategies.
conducted to ensure suppliers meet these high standards.
Furthermore, IKEA champions open communication within its workforce through the “Raise a Concern” platform. Accessible by phone and web, this platform empowers employees at all levels to report any workplace issues they encounter, such as harassment, child labor, health-related concerns, corruption or bribery. This initiative not only promotes a culture of integrity but also maintains a safe and transparent environment where employees can voice concerns without fear of repercussions.
By maintaining high standards of accountability from the C-suite down to the factory floor, IKEA insulates its brand from the risks of ethical pitfalls. This approach also positions IKEA to meet the demands of investors, customers and regulators who expect corporate transparency and responsible business practices.
While profit remains a key motivator, the sustainability of these profits increasingly depends on serving a greater purpose and embedding ESG at the heart of value creation. Companies that recognize and act on this shift towards responsible capitalism are not just future-proofing their futures—they are catalyzing genuine, positive change for generations to come.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Marvel Jianghua Feng is a committed environmental advocate and has been engaged in the environmental field for many years, promoting the cause of environmental protection and sustainable development. Her works have been published in various academic journals.
Each week, the average person ingests roughly five grams of microplastics—approximately the weight of a credit card. Despite ongoing debates regarding their health impacts, the potential risks of microplastics are increasingly evident.
By ELON CHENDONG JI
When we think of “plastic pollution”, you may picture plastic bags floating in the ocean, tangling up and killing wildlife, or plastic bottles littered on the shore. However, we now face a subtler, yet pervasive threat: microplastic pollution.
These tiny particles, barely visible to the naked eye, range in size from five millimeters—the size of a small ant—down to one single nanometer. To put things in perspective, the diameter of a strand of human DNA is about 2.5 nanometers. Microplastics, often smaller than DNA, have infiltrated diverse ecosystems, from the food we consume to the air we breathe.
Microplastics pose a significant threat to marine life, entering the food chain as fish and other marine organisms ingest them.
Research into microplastics has accelerated, particularly concerning their presence in marine environments. Estimates suggest that there are 14 million tons of microplastics on the seafloor and 358 trillion particles on the sea surface.
Drifting with the currents and winds, these plastics sometimes aggregate to
form vast garbage patches and, as they degrade, break down into even smaller nanoplastics that sink deeper into the ocean. This makes removal efforts particularly challenging.
Microplastics pose a significant threat to marine life, entering the food chain as fish and other marine organisms ingest them. This bioaccumulation process continues up the food chain as larger predators consume contaminated prey. Eventually, these microplastics can find their way onto our plates through the various foods we consume.
Beyond food, microplastics also enter our bodies through other means such as bottled water and even the air we breathe. These particles can come from the shed-
ding of synthetic textiles through washing and wearing, microbeads used in cosmetics and personal care products and fragmentation of larger plastic wastes.
Despite the World Health Organization’s current position that there’s insufficient evidence to definitively link microplastics in the human body to specific health risks, an increasing number of studies are raising red flags.
While our bodies can expel larger microplastic particles, the smaller ones pose an insidious threat. They can infiltrate the lungs or penetrate the walls of the digestive tract, potentially accumulating in vital organs such as the liver, kidney and spleen. Alarmingly, studies have found microplastics in human placental tissue and even samples of breast milk.
Potential effects of microplastics on our health include impaired lung function, triggering inflammatory responses, disrupting immune functions, enabling pathogen infiltration and even breaching the blood-brain barrier—which could contribute to neu-
rodegenerative conditions like Parkinson’s disease.
Thisuncertainty around the full impact of microplastics calls for a coordinated global response between governments, industries, environmental agencies, public awareness campaigns and scientific communities worldwide.
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) leads with initiatives like the Clean Seas Campaign and participates in the UN Alliance for Sustainable Fashion, promoting a circular textile value chain.
Other major organizations have also highlighted the urgency of addressing microplastic sources from personal care products and synthetic clothing. In The Pew Charitable Trusts’ 2020 report “Breaking the Plastic Wave”, the organization warns that urgent systemic changes are needed to prevent a potential doubling of microplastic levels by 2040.
With microplastics pervasive across environments and borders, combining efforts from governments, industries and communities is crucial.
While our bodies can expel larger microplastic particles, the smaller ones pose an insidious threat. They can infiltrate the lungs or penetrate the walls of the digestive tract, potentially accumulating in
vital organs such as the liver, kidney and spleen.
yourself: Lifestyle changes to reduce microplastic exposure
While completely avoiding microplastics may be impossible, significant reductions in exposure are achievable through mindful choices. Opting for glass or metal over single-use plastic, choosing natural fibers, and using air and water purifiers at home can all help decrease microplastic intake. Moreover, since food is one of the major sources of microplastics, consider reducing the consumption of high-risk foods like seafood and favoring produce grown in clean areas.
This comprehensive approach is not just about environmental conservation— it’s a public health imperative. By adjusting our lifestyles and advocating for systemic changes, we can protect ourselves and future generations from the invisible threats posed by microplastics.
Elon Chendong Ji is an Associate Professor at a top Chinese university, specializing in biomaterials for medical applications, environmental protection, and neuroscience. He is passionate about sharing cutting-edge global technology advancements.
Age-old problem, modern solutions: Explore how LaVida Clinic’s holistic approach is turning the tide on aging.
By ROY YU
The quest for anti-aging is as old as history itself and spans across every culture. In our world today, it is taking on new urgency. With Asia’s aging population growing at an unprecedented rate, the demand for anti-aging solutions that truly work continues to rise. This demographic shift has sparked a surge in innovative approaches, transforming how we tackle the aging process.
Over the years, the landscape of the anti-aging market has seen its fair share of evolution—from Cleopatra’s legendary goat milk baths to today’s cutting-edge solutions that blend nature with science. Currently, the anti-aging industry buzzes with trends that emphasize certain key aspects: a growing preference for natural and organic products, the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and a holistic approach that values overall wellness,
vitality and health as much as beauty. This modern approach does more than just treat aging; it enhances vitality and life quality, promoting graceful aging.
Nestled in the bustling heart of Bangkok, Thailand, LaVida Clinic has emerged as a frontrunner in this technologically-led holistic approach to anti-aging.
Laura Jiang, the visionary co-founder of LaVida Clinic, passionately advocates for a comprehensive approach where the client’s overall health is a top priority.
“We chose the name ‘LaVida’ which means ‘life’ in Spanish, reflecting our dedication to enhancing our client’s personal quality of life”, Laura explains. “Life is an irreplaceable treasure, and our objective is to be there for our clients, not just at the beginning of their family life, but also throughout their life’s journey.”
At LaVida Clinic, anti-aging goes beyond skin deep. The clinic’s philosophy encompasses a broad spectrum of treatments and therapies offered in a support-
"Life is an irreplaceable treasure, and our objective is to be there for our clients, not just at the beginning of their family life, but also throughout their life’s journey."
ive environment. By hosting informative workshops and offering personalized consultations, LaVida empowers clients with the necessary knowledge and resources to take control of their well-being and gracefully embrace the aging process.
Under the guidance of a team of medical experts and wellness professionals, the Anti-Aging Medicine Department at LaVida Clinic specializes in a variety of services. These services focus on diminishing visible aging signs, boosting internal vitality and preventing age-related illnesses. With top-notch skincare treatments, customized nutrition plans and the latest technology, LaVida Clinic addresses aging comprehensively.
The success of LaVida Clinic’s approach speaks to an increasing global demand for sustainable, long-term approaches to health care that enhance life quality rather than merely extending it. As the world’s attitudes toward aging evolve, there’s a growing appreciation for strategies that integrate the best of traditional wisdom and modern science—promising not just more years of life, but more life in those years.
Roy Yu is an executive director at an investment firm and entrepreneur with experience in lifestyle and wellness sectors.
Peek inside the box of live box breaking, where every broadcast is a potential gold mine.
By YURONG GUO
In recent years, the trend of “unboxing” has gained significant traction, particularly on platforms such as TikTok and YouTube. This phenomenon, known as “live box-breaking” involves an online host or “breaker” opening pre-packaged sports, anime, game cards or other memorabilia during live broadcasts. To make things even more exciting, participants can buy a spot in a group break, giving them a chance to split the profits from the cards without having to buy an entire box themselves.
At the heart of the phenomenon is the thrill over the possibility of getting rare cards. This allure of rare cards incentivizes participants to pay to join live box breaks, enabling breakers to earn significantly more from each box than its original cost, thereby profiting from the process. These live unboxing events have also opened up multiple revenue streams for breakers, including break fees, advertising revenue, fan donations and promotional deals with card shops. Such developments have positively transformed the collectible card market by creating new opportunities for both consumers and industry participants.
The high-stakes uncertainty of live box-breaking
Despite the excitement, live box-breaking is not without economic risks. The market’s unpredictability can lead to unstable returns for participants due to fluctuations in card values. As the market becomes saturated, the appeal of unboxing might decline, potentially affecting streamers’ earnings. Additionally, the randomness of card distribution has raised concerns about gambling-like behaviors, which could attract regulatory scrutiny.
A s the live box-breaking phenomenon continues to reshape the collectible card market, industry participants must adapt their strategies to ensure long-term sustainability. Streamers should consider diversifying revenue streams and strengthening partnerships, while collectors should conduct thorough research to make informed decisions. By embracing the evolving dynamics of live box-breaking and mitigating inherent risks, participants leverage this phenomenon to create an exciting, thriving and responsible collectible card ecosystem.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Yurong Guo is a student in the IBDP program at NOIC Academy with an interest in business management and economics. In her spare time, she likes to browse current hot topics and enjoys debates.
AI’s integration in environmental strategies is proving crucial for achieving global sustainability goals.
By NING YU
Following the 78th General Assembly of the United Nations on March 21, 2024, the first global resolution on artificial intelligence (AI) was officially approved by the United Nations General Assembly. The resolution aims to regulate and guide AI development in a manner that is “safe, secure and trustworthy”, with the goal of steering its use towards global good and sustainable development for the benefit of all nations.
This initiative aligns with similar regulations worldwide, such as the “Artificial
By harnessing the power of AI, we can address some of the most pressing environmental challenges and unlock new methods of conservation.
Intelligence Act” passed by the European Union Parliament earlier in March 2024, highlighting a unified desire to regulate AI while still reaping the many benefits of its use.
One recurring theme across these AI regulations is “smart environmental protection.” This term refers to the use of advanced technologies—like the Internet of Things (IoT), big data and AI— innovative practices and data–driven approaches to enhance environmental protection and conservation efforts. Using innovative devices, we can process
and aggregate large volumes of data. Scientists then use sophisticated algorithms to identify patterns and trends, allowing AI models to provide instantaneous feedback and monitoring, build predictive models and anticipate potential hazards and optimize management and systems generally.
AI is transforming environmental monitoring by offering more precise, efficient data collection and analysis capabilities, providing real-time updates on environmental conditions.
For example, AI systems have been used in air quality monitoring and forecasting in industries like mining. Data from a network of IoT sensors that measure pollutants, such as PM2.5 and nitrogen dioxide, is gathered and then analyzed to identify pollution sources, predict pollution levels and provide realtime alerts.
This technology has already been put into use in some countries. For example, in Beijing, China, IBM’s Green Horizon project uses AI to forecast air pollution levels up to 72 hours in advance, which allows authorities to take preemptive measures to protect public health. This initiative has successfully contributed to bringing the Beijing government closer to its environmental goals.
The use of AI in environmental monitoring is versatile. Beyond monitoring air pollution, AI is also used to assess the health of ocean ecosystems. Instead of relying on labor-intensive and expensive conventional methods, new technologies and tools, such as AI-powered underwater drones, have been used to gather large datasets for analysis.
Using AI, conservationists can track and monitor the accumulation of plastic waste in oceans as well as predict the movement and concentration of plastic debris, which can optimize cleanup efforts and monitor coral reefs to assess ocean health. This information can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of conservation initiatives.
Ecological protection and wildlife monitoring
AI has made significant strides in ecological protection and wildlife monitoring, providing new solutions to traditional challenges. It has enhanced the efficiency of monitoring processes, pro-
AI could prevent about 907,372 tons of food waste annually, translating to significant environmental and economic benefits.
vided insight into ecosystem health and helped track endangered species.
For instance, the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) partnered with Network Rail to develop AI-powered drones that locate and track animals in their natural habitats. This technology has also been applied in China to aid in the preservation of giant pandas and Siberian tigers and by the World Wildlife Fund to identify and catalog images of animals.
This technology significantly reduces the time and effort traditionally required for manual analysis. The vast amounts of data can be used to implement targeted protection strategies and even predict the impact of climate change on animal habits.
Although AI is frequently used for tracking and monitoring, it can also tackle more complex tasks, such as tracking poaching activities and ensuring compliance with laws.
In rainforests, the non-profit organiza-
tion Rainforest Connection has developed an innovative solution using AI and recycled smartphones. Upcycled smartphones equipped with solar panels are placed on trees and act as listening devices that capture different forest sounds. An AI algorithm analyzes the audio recordings to detect sounds associated with illegal logging, such as chainsaws and trucks. If these sounds are detected, real-time alerts and locations are sent to local rangers, allowing them to respond quickly to investigate and prevent deforestation.
This technology has been implemented in various regions and has contributed to protecting critical habitats and reducing illegal logging activities.
AI is playing a pivotal role in combating food waste by optimizing supply chains, enhancing food quality monitoring and revolutionizing the way grocery stores and hospitality sectors manage food waste. According to the United Nations, approximately one-fifth of all food goes to waste, which negatively impacts the global economy and exacerbates environmental degradation. AI’s capacity to analyze vast amounts of data and generate actionable insights makes it uniquely suited to address various stages of the food supply chain where waste occurs.
In grocery chains, traditional manual methods of stocking, ordering and food preparation have been prone to inefficien-
cies, leading to significant waste. However, with the use of AI-driven purchasing systems, such as those implemented by WWF in collaboration with the Pacific Coast Food Waste Commitment (PCFWC), inventory management and ordering can be fine-tuned to align more closely with consumer demand. This approach can be particularly helpful during festive seasons when demands for certain groceries are higher. This precision has cut food waste by 14.8% per store on average, showcasing how AI can ensure fresher produce on shelves and reduce waste.
According to the WWF, if broadly adopted, AI could prevent about 907,372 tons of food waste annually, translating to significant environmental and economic benefits. This would not only mean a reduction of 13.3 million metric tons of CO2 emissions but also a savings of over US$2 billion.
Similarly, in the luxury hospitality sector, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has embraced AI food waste solution provider Winnow’s AI technology to tackle food waste across its global portfolio. Following a successful six-month pilot that achieved a
36% reduction in food waste in four flagship hotels—including locations in Hong Kong, London, Miami and Dubai—the Group is expanding this technology to all its properties by 2025.
Winnow’s system uses cameras, smart scales and tablets to identify, weigh and record waste, helping kitchens optimize food preparation and reduce costs. This initiative not only aligns with global sustainability goals but also demonstrates the power of AI in enhancing service quality while significantly lowering environmental impact.
While AI is still evolving, its potential to revolutionize sustainability and conservation is undeniable. The capabilities of machine learning and real-time data processing have already become invaluable tools for scientists, researchers and environmentalists in their quest for a better, greener future.
As global regulations strive to ensure the proper and ethical use of AI, the continued advancement and integration of AI into environmental strategies hold the promise of a more sustainable and resilient future. By harnessing the power of AI, we can address some of the most pressing environmental challenges and unlock new methods of conservation to pave the way for a more sustainable world.
Yu holds a Master’s degree in Electronics and Computer Engineering from Cornell University, specializing in machine learning. With his extensive experience in machine learning, industrial IoT, and AI, he focuses on applying these technologies to the environmental protection industry. Yu also has developed industry-specific data models that utilize AI for intelligent analysis and decision-making. His work supports precise law enforcement by governments and smart management by enterprises, offering innovative solutions in environmental protection.
Charge into the future with cleaner, smarter energy.
By KENGIE TANG, Powered by Leyden Power
In a world where electricity demands surge to unprecedented levels, the call for sustainable energy solutions grows louder each day. Even as major industries continue to rely heavily on fossil fuels, global leaders are rallying for a net-zero future, making greener alternatives essential.
Introducing Leyden Power, a company gaining traction in the energy sector with its hybrid energy Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). These systems offer a viable alternative to traditional diesel generator sets—commonly known as gensets—and are changing the game. They can power heavy construction machinery, drive mining projects, electrify festi-
vals and even amp up music concerts. In essence, BESS is redefining how we generate, store and utilize energy.
BESS of both worlds: Power meets sustainability
Think of Leyden Power’s flagship product, the NAVY CUBE, as a giant rechargeable battery. It stores and provides energy sourced from diversified sources, such as directly from the electrical grid or independently from renewable sources like wind and solar, to greatly improve power reliability. This versatility enhances power reliability, especially for large mining or construction operations—which are typ-
ically located in remote areas with weak power infrastructure. It supports high power-output equipment like tower cranes and drill rigs effectively.
Music festivals are another area where power demands can skyrocket within milliseconds during a performance. Guided by cloud-enabled computerized control systems, the BESS can store and release energy on demand, ensuring a steady power supply even during peak loads. The system stands out by providing a reliable yet quiet power supply, significantly reducing the emission of pollutants like carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxide in clouds of black smoke—a typical sight with fossil fuel-based generators.
Choosing a BESS over diesel gensets doesn’t mean ditching diesel generators entirely. BESS can work in tandem with diesel gensets, forming a hybrid system that taps into diesel power only when absolutely necessary. This approach not only cuts down on emissions and noise but also leverages the strengths of both systems when needed.
In both traditional diesel gensets and BESS setups, a common pain point is the need for close monitoring and management. Leyden Power’s NAVY HUB
“As
the global shift towards renewable energy sources continues, accompanied by a trend towards decentralization and resilience, Leyden Power is expanding its applications beyond traditional energy storage.”
Energy Management System simplifies this task immensely. Accessible via web and mobile devices, the NAVY HUB acts as the brains of the operation, orchestrating the energy sources to ensure optimal performance and reliable power output. It also features predictive maintenance tools that schedule servicing based on real-time data and forecasts.
As Leyden Power carves out its market in Asia’s energy sector, its exciting product lineup is opening up possibilities for sustainable power across various industries.
In addition to the NAVY CUBE, the green energy company has also launched two new products: the NAVY CAPSULE and NAVY TANK. The NAVY CAPSULE stands out with its multifunctionality, capable of doing everything your typical BESS can do like peak load shifting and seamless renewables integration, but it was specially designed to provide reliable
backup power. This makes it perfect for settings that demand high power quality, such as hospitals and data centers. It’s also an excellent backup generator for residential areas prone to power outages.
For mobility, the NAVY TANK is a smaller, easily transportable unit ideal for powering outdoor projects like road or tunnel construction. These diverse use cases highlight the company’s commitment to adaptable and efficient energy solutions across a spectrum of industries, solidifying its position as a leader in the green energy landscape.
Leyden Power’s robust Research and Development department, backed by a top-tier battery manufacturer as its strategic investor, ensures continuous innovation. The company’s collaborations provide a global network that supports growth and expansion. Leveraging this expertise, Leyden Power now operates in a complete industry chain from raw material production to BESS manufacturing and waste product recycling. This integration minimizes supply chain risks, enhances cost efficiency and improves carbon footprint management.
In line with its mission to champion sustainable energy solutions, Leyden Power is actively enhancing its product line with advancing technologies. By integrating cutting-edge AI models, the company is boosting the NAVY HUB’s predictive
capabilities, improving battery health management, and much more. With a strong foothold in Southeast Asia and eyes set on further expansion, Leyden Power intends to leverage the global network of stakeholders as its door into new markets.
As the world moves towards sustainability, Leyden Power’s commitment to clean energy solutions is making waves internationally, promising a bright future in the growing green energy sector. Jimmy Zhu, the Company’s Chief Technology Officer, is optimistic about the growing focus on sustainable energy. He comments, “As the global shift towards renewable energy sources continues, accompanied by a trend towards decentralization and resilience, Leyden Power is expanding its applications beyond traditional energy storage. This strategic move positions us to explore new growth avenues and contribute significantly to innovation in the energy sector. The evolving landscape of sustainable energy makes the advancements and development of technologies related to energy generation, storage and utilization critical. This global shift towards environmental sustainability has allowed Leyden Power to play a pivotal role in pioneering and driving innovation in the energy sector.”
With a focus on innovation and collaboration, Leyden Power remains committed to powering the future sustainably for generations to come, making a tangible impact in the transition towards a greener tomorrow. Kengie Tang is an author with a keen interest in the natural world.
Block out your calendar and immerse yourself in the serenity of words.
By LOCHLAN CHEUK
Messy hair. An overloaded brain. Knitted brows. An avalanche of bills. Hopefully, this picture doesn’t reflect your current state as an entrepreneur because if it does, your business may be in a difficult situation. In the fast-paced, ever-evolving and cutthroat business world, stumbling blocks are part and parcel of any venture. It’s only natural for you—and other entrepreneurs pushing full steam ahead—to be up to your neck in crisis every now and then.
While every entrepreneur is destined to encounter hurdles along the way, what can set you apart and catapult you to success is your ability to hold onto hope and forge ahead during trying times. Obviously, this is easier said than done. Yet, if you take a break and sit in this “mindful linguistics” class, you’ll begin to make progress before you know it.
There’s no mention of something called “mindful linguistics” in linguistics. Yet, given the growing awareness surrounding mental well-being and the rising popularity of mindfulness practices, it’s high time to carve out a place for the restorative potential of words within the
discipline. I refer to this unexplored territory as “mindful linguistics”.
The power of words in soothing and healing minds is no secret. While many people find solace in sagacious phrases and quotes, the transformative power of single words—unfamiliar words in particular—often goes underappreciated. Unbeknownst to many of us, these words can work wonders during difficult times.
If your business is in its gloomiest chapter now, this is where you’ll find guidance, reassurance and optimism to move forward.
diving headfirst into success is a dream many entrepreneurs are bending over backward to achieve. This burning desire, however, often remains confined to the wish lists of many, as challenges often come knocking before the grand vision materializes.
Once obstacles come your way and cast you adrift, step away from your desk and take a stroll in your backyard. As you take in the scenery, you’ll see plants and trees gradually extend their roots, stems, shoots and leaves around any physical barriers in their path, maneuvering through
the gaps between fence posts. This adaptive growth strategy—first identified by Charles Darwin in 1880—is known as aphercotropism. Distinguished from phototropism (i.e., a plant’s movement toward the light) and hydrotropism (i.e., a movement toward the water), aphercotropism is not driven by what the plant needs but by the obstacles it must circumvent to flourish and thrive.
When our way forward is unclear, and making headway feels as slow as moving through quicksand, it’s all too tempting to give up. Yet, when plants have the resolve and grit to confront obstacles head-on and work around them unflinchingly, there’s simply no room for us to doubt our capacity to surmount the seemingly insurmountable.
As soon as optimists notice a cloud, they’ll search for the shining silver lining. Yet, in pessimists’ eyes, every cloud comes with a storm brewing on the horizon. If chaos hasn’t erupted yet, it’s simply the calm before the storm. If you find yourself constantly bracing for the worst, expecting every challenge to lead to disaster, it’s time to introduce the concept of “eucatastrophe” into your mindset. Coined by J. R. R. Tolkien, the author of The Lord of the Rings, eucatastrophe stands as the positive counterpart to catastrophe, signifying “the sudden happy turn in a story which pierces you with a joy that brings tears.”
There is no crystal ball for you to foresee what lies ahead for your business. However, if you frequently anticipate the worst, your business empire will sink beneath the waves even before catastrophe strikes.
In the narrative of your entrepreneurial journey, you hold the pen rather than flipping the pages. The twists and turns are at your fingertips. While the future is uncertain, adopting a mindset open to eucatastrophes can transform challenges into opportunities for growth and unexpected success. By biding your time and maintaining
resilience and hope, even in the face of the worst storms, you can rest assured that halcyon days are always bound to return.
“Isuppose it is tempting, if the only tool you have is a hammer, to treat everything as if it were a nail.” You’ve probably come across this saying in one form or another. This quote originates from a 1962 speech by Abraham Kaplan, a professor of philosophy, and was later popularized by prominent psychologist Abraham Maslow. The concept behind this analogy captures the essence of the law of the instrument. Also referred to as “the law of the hammer” and “Maslow’s hammer”, the law of the instrument refers to a cognitive bias involving an overdependence on familiar tools, skills and resources.
Since there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for tackling every obstacle that comes your way, as an entrepreneur, you certainly don’t want only a hammer at your disposal. When the storm clouds gather and calamity looms, it’s time for you to embody the spirit of a philomath—one who relishes learning—to pick from others’ brains and seek new knowledge, skills and perspectives. This mindset is essential for fostering innovation and adaptability, ensuring that you are prepared to face the diverse challenges of the business world. After all, yesterday’s winning method may not guarantee success today.
This concludes the very first mindful linguistics class ever. Hopefully, this exploration has offered you a fresh perspective on navigating the entrepreneurial journey. By embracing the principles of aphercotropism, eucatastrophe and being a philomath, you can cultivate resilience, optimism and a passion for learning.
If you find negativity creeping back into your thoughts along the way but prefer to keep your struggles hidden and address them privately, take this class again. Words will always sympathize. Lochlan Cheuk is a junior staff writer at Jumpstart.
Might now be the moment to discover the positive signals we’ve been missing?
By TANVI DAYAL
We often find lists detailing the many red flags found in offices and boardrooms. They paint a picture of a cut-throat corporate culture filled with bad bosses, indifferent management and a glaring lack of privacy. These elements have stirred outrage and kept employees uncomfortably on their toes.
Yet, as we dive into the essence of prosperity and the culture of continuous learning and adaptability, it’s crucial to shift focus to the positive—green flags that champion employee growth and organizational resilience. Here, we’ll explore five employer behaviors that not only prevent potential setbacks but
also set the foundation for boundless opportunities.
Predictability might not be the first quality that comes to mind when thinking of admirable employer traits, yet its impact is undeniable. Companies and bosses that stick to the organization’s values and policies can go a long way in creating a sense of security in employees. When employees can anticipate support, expectations, repercussions and feedback, they navigate workplace challenges much more confidently.
On the flip side, an unpredictable employer with erratic behavior and expectations keeps employees constantly
Encouraging independent decision-making equips employees with critical management skills, fosters faster problem-solving and, most importantly, reinforces trust
on edge and worried about the quality of their work or the continuity of their employment. This can destabilize their productivity, team morale and mental health.
Communication makes the world go round. Having open channels for a reliable flow of feedback, ideas and emotions streamlines processes from brainstorming and project approvals to task clarifications, enhancing efficiency across the board.
By bridging gaps in understanding and eliminating silos, open communication not only boosts productivity but fosters a culture of mutual trust. In such an atmosphere, employees know that their grievances are addressed, their opinions heard and their contributions valued.
In contrast, lapses in communication can stifle workflow and undermine efficiency. Employers who do not communicate their requirements clearly and expect employees to figure things out on their own risk eroding trust. This accountability for clarity is a cornerstone of a prosperous and transparent work environment.
While everyone loves a pizza party, it’s not precisely a worthwhile reward for hours upon hours of hard work and, sometimes, employees’ personal sacrifices. As a manifestation of the value placed on hard work and dedication, tangible appreciation, like paid time off, employee discounts, promotions, etc., is a surefire way to improve productivity and allow employees to take pride in what they do. This gives them an assured incentive to go above and beyond, encouraging them to strive to do better.
Besides having a tangible reward system in place, make sure your employees are aware of it, as it encourages healthy competition and boosts morale.
By prioritizing the wellbeing of their employees and nurturing a supportive environment, employers pave the way for a brighter, more prosperous future.
An organization that tends to promote employees internally instead of hiring to fill a vacancy signals its commitment to recognizing and nurturing in-house talents. Such a practice shows that an employer not only observes individual skills but understands the advantages of having seasoned members take on leader-
ship roles.
The adage “Places that are always hiring are also always firing” speaks of the instability a rapid turnover creates. Companies that can retain and invest in their employees and advance their careers internally reflect a work environment of prosperity and opportunity. This goes a long way in boosting morale and creating an environment where employees feel safe in investing long-term efforts for advancement.
True resilience is born from empowerment. When organizations trust their teams to make decisions, contribute ideas and own their roles, they’re not only enhancing productivity but nur-
turing a culture of independence and growth.
While some amount of supervision is necessary to keep things running smoothly, it is rare that anyone appreciates being micromanaged. Encouraging independent decision-making equips employees with critical management skills, fosters faster problem-solving and, most importantly, reinforces trust.
In the intricate tapestry of workplace culture, these green flags knit a fabric of prosperity, resilience and growth. By prioritizing the well-being of their employees and nurturing a supportive environment, employers pave the way for a brighter, more prosperous future. After all, when individuals prosper, so does the collective.
The future of medicine is reimagined with CRISPR-Cas9 genetic engineering.
By MIKE YANG
Rapid advancements in genetic modification technologies, notably CRISPR, have transformed the conversation about healthcare and medicine. This revolutionary discovery allows scientists to selectively edit the DNA of living organisms, opening up opportunities to treat a range of diseases. However, concerns about safety and ethics naturally arise when considering the implications of genetic modification and the alteration of human biology.
The science behind CRISPR
CRISPR, or Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats, are DNA sequences found in the genomes of bacteria and archaea. These sequences function as a primitive immune system in bacteria, helping to recognize and target invading viruses. Discovered by Spanish scientist Francisco Mojica in the 1990s,
these sequences were later harnessed to develop CRISPR-Cas9, the first widely adopted tool for genome editing.
The CRISPR-Cas9 system uses a “guide” ribonucleic acid (gRNA) to direct the Cas9 enzyme to specific DNA sequences, allowing for precise and targeted modifications. The core idea is simple: if gRNA can accurately direct Cas9 to the right part of the DNA, it can signal where to make cuts to neutralize harmful cells. In theory, this capability means any DNA sequence can be targeted and modified.
Since its discovery and refinement throughout the years, CRISPR-Cas9 has been met with both skepticism and excitement within the scientific community and the public at large. Although Emmanuelle Charpentier and Jennifer Doudna were awarded the Nobel Prize
2020 for their discovery of CRISPR-Cas9 genetic scissors, the general consensus continues to question the ethics and safety of altering human DNA, particularly given the incomplete understanding of bioengineering’s long-term implications.
Enough about potential—has CRISPR-Cas9 actually worked? In recent years, CRISPR-Cas9 has demonstrated significant real-world efficacy through various clinical trials, showcasing its wide-ranging applications in medical technology.
For instance, Swiss-American biotechnology company CRISPR Therapeutics and American biotech giant Vertex Pharmaceuticals have made significant headway with their CTX001 treatment for sickle cell disease. It had received fasttrack approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2018. Remarkably, in trials conducted by the two companies, all 31 patients with sickle cell anemia showed no symptoms post-treatment, despite having severe complications beforehand. Similarly, 42 out of 44 patients with beta-thalassemia no longer needed life-saving transfusions after their treatment.
Given its potential, research institutions around the world are actively working to further develop and test genomic editing therapies for a range of conditions, such as HIV, cancer, genetic diseases, neurological diseases and blood disorders.
Although still in its early stages of development, CRISPR-Cas9 has opened up a plethora of new approaches to treating diseases previously deemed terminal and incurable. With 18 different categories of conditions under investigation—from cancer to genetic and neurological diseases—CRISPR-Cas9 stands as one of the greatest scientific breakthroughs of the 21st century.
However, it remains crucial that the focus of CRISPR and genetic modification stays on curing—not enhancing—human lives. This technology marks the dawn of a new era in medical science, where the once impossible becomes possible, opening doors to new methods of healing and recovery.
Mike Yang is an editorial and business development intern at Jumpstart.
Invite prosperity and success into your space with these simple fixes!
By KENGIE TANG
Feng Shui, a literal combination of the Chinese words for wind and water, refers to an ancient practice of creating balance and harmony in living spaces. The flow of these two elements is believed to impact the balance of energy, or “Qi”, in space. For centuries, countless people have used the principles of Feng Shui. Even some of the most successful people in the world turn to Feng Shui to beckon good energy into their spaces, including the likes of Bill Gates, Coca-Cola and Walt Disney.
While Feng Shui has been traditionally associated with homes and personal spaces, its principles can also be applied to the workplace, making it a valuable tool for business owners and entrepreneurs looking to create a positive and productive work environment. Here are six simple changes you can make to invite better Feng Shui into your office!
1. Assert authority in the power position
When deciding how to set up your office space, one of the key things to consider is desk placement. Feng Shui advises that your desk should occupy the “power position” or “command position”.
This arrangement situates your desk furthest from the door, ideally diagonal from the entrance. Your chair’s back should rest against the wall, providing you a clear view of the entrance to the office and the rest of the room at all times. This placement symbolizes your clarity of the opportunities and possibilities that lie ahead.
If this setup isn’t feasible, Feng Shui suggests alternatives such as placing a mirror on your desk to maintain a view of the entrance. Being able to see everything entering your space fosters comfort and awareness, which, according to Feng Shui beliefs, also channels more focus and clarity.
2. The Feng Shui of furniture
Inaddition to where you sit, what you're sitting on also matters.
If you're already sitting in the “power position”, your back should rest against an office wall. This alignment is beneficial as a strong backing symbolizes protection, strength and support.
Choose a sturdy work chair with a high backrest to provide solid backing. A strong wall behind your chair, paired with a firm backrest, sets the stage for success.
3. Beware the poison arrows
you may be thinking about the other furniture in your office. Feng Shui also has a thing or two to say about your choice of tables and decor.
One general rule to follow on your next trip to IKEA is to avoid sharp angles. According to Feng Shui beliefs, sharp angles in a space—sometimes referred to as “poison arrows”—will “cut” into your energy and disrupt the balance and flow of the room.
When shopping for office furniture, choose pieces with rounded corners. If you already have some edgy pieces, orient them away from you and your team.
Plantsare a fantastic addition to any office space. Not only do they add a pop of color and act as a natural air purifier, but plants are also believed to contribute to good Feng Shui and help generate more wealth.
The money tree, with its signature braided trunk and low maintenance, is a popular plant of choice. Place it away from direct sunlight to prevent scorching the leaves, and water it only when the top two to four inches of soil feels dry. The braided trunk has multiple meanings, from representing longevity and balance to symboliz-
ing a cage that catches money. Either way, it is a win-win to have a money tree in your space!
The principles of Feng Shui rely heavily on the balance of elements. The fire, water, earth, metal and wood elements each carry their unique energies, which can be embodied through different materials and colors.
Water and metal elements are particularly favorable for office spaces.
The water element serves as an ancient symbol of wealth and prosperity. Flowing water, in particular, symbolizes wealth flowing towards you, which is crucial for office spaces! Incorporate this element with a small water fountain, the sight and sound of which can also be soothing and maintain positive energy in your space.
If adding a water feature in your space is not feasible, you may opt to introduce blue or black decor pieces in your office as they also represent the water element. Alternatively, put up pictures of waves or waterfalls. They serve not only as gorgeous prints but also incorporate trust, wisdom and knowledge in the environment.
The metal element, on the other hand, is a symbol of sharpness and precision. Bring this energy into your space with a decorative metal sculpture or chairs with
metal legs. Outside the Feng Shui lens, branding experts believe that metallic sculptures give the impression of professionalism and success.
Circular shapes also represent the metal element, which can easily be found in the patterns of a pillow or a round statement rug.
Conversely, the fire element should be avoided in office space. If used excessively, this element can bring about chaos and tension and “burn away” the positive energies you have worked hard to build. Feng Shui masters advise against lighting candles in your office (as tempting as that may be; who doesn't love a good scented candle?) or decorating with too many red tones.
Although the fire element can occasionally inspire passion and excitement, it's best to consult a Feng Shui expert before painting your walls bright red.
FengShui also believes that numbers can determine the energies of a space. Usually, numerology is used in Feng Shui when choosing house numbers, but it can apply to aspects of your business like your office address or phone number.
In Chinese beliefs, numbers like 1, 2, 3, 6, 8 and 9 are considered auspicious. Number 1, for example, represents purity and the happiness of new beginnings,
whereas the number 8 beckons good energy as the number is pronounced as “ba” in Chinese, which is similar to “fa”, a word that can mean “good fortune”.
On the other hand, the number 4 is often regarded as an unlucky number due to its pronunciation sounding the same as the word for “death” in many Asian languages. Similar to how many buildings in the West skip on the 13th floor of buildings for superstition's sake, you may find in some Asian countries that the number 4 is often missing in a similar fashion. The Japanese camera brand Fuji also skipped 4 when they launched their Series 5 camera following Series 3.
While Feng Shui can be a valuable tool for designing your space, it's not a one-sizefits-all solution. Each workplace is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. However, implementing some of these simple tips can add a touch of color and awareness to your office, helping you create a more pleasant and enjoyable space to work in. At the end of the day, the key is to find what works best for you and your team and to create a space that promotes positivity, productivity and well-being. So why not give it a try? Who knows, you might be surprised at the difference it can make!
Kengie Tang is an author with a keen interest in the natural world.
The global stage awaits Hong Kong startups, and Airwallex is ensuring they enjoy the spotlight. Here’s how.
By ALINDA GUPTA
Startups are ambitious undertakings. Taking an idea and growing it into a viable product, platform or service takes commitment and discipline. It also requires a supportive ecosystem that can help these startups unlock business opportunities.
As daunting as all that sounds, there is recognition that startups are a key engine for innovation and growth and a core part of ensuring a strong economy. In Hong Kong, a lot of work has gone into enabling a healthy startup ecosystem by identifying the pain points many of them face—be it funding, limited access to consumers, the increasingly competitive landscape and much more.
Having successfully grown from a startup to a global business itself, Airwallex knows the potential Hong Kong’s entrepreneurs hold, understands the challenges and is committed to supporting the next generation of startup businesses with global ambitions.
With support from Hong Kong flagship incubators and in collabora-
tion with Hong Kong business partners, Airwallex launched “Airwallex for Startups” in September 2023 with the aim to help businesses support the city’s early-stage businesses on their international expansion.
In partnership with HKSTP and Cyberport, the program is a business readiness campaign that offers low overseas transaction fees, customizable Visa borderless cards, exclusive offers and much more.
Originating in Melbourne, Australia’s coffee capital, Jack Zhang and three fellow entrepreneurs’ first iteration of Airwallex was a café—a testament to its ability to always sniff out the most well-suited business ideas. As the founders worked to build a supply chain that was smooth, efficient and without unnecessary costs, they quickly discovered the friction points that they would aim to solve, eventually founding Airwallex in 2015.
The “Airwallex for Startups” program was inspired by our co-founders who, in their early days building a café, probably wished they had access to a program like this to grow their coffee business (that said, we are ever-so-grateful that they pivoted to pursue and build Airwallex).
The General Manager of Asia at Airwallex, Arnold Chan, emphasizes the benefits of expanding internationally in a recent press release about the program, “Going global may at first seem daunting and out of reach, but the return on investment is massive—including multiple revenue streams, access to a broader customer and greater business resilience.” The program embodies this ethos, offering a pathway for startups to achieve global success and economic prosperity.
Airwallex has formed strategic alliances with companies including virtual insurance company Bowtie, flexible workspace provider The Executive Centre and cloud-based accounting software provider Xero to redefine cost and operational efficiency. These partnerships enable startups to concentrate on expansion without being bogged down by logistical complexities. In the coming months, Airwallex customers will also have the opportunity to engage in webinars organized by Cyberport for startups and network with the Hong Kong Science & Technology Park community.
Chan adds, “While starting a business is an exciting endeavor, startups and SMEs tend to have limited resources. From the challenges of time management, lack of marketing and sales campaigns, to managing expenses, we want to make things that much easier, and ultimately, provide guidance and offers that can help them succeed, and better streamline operations.”
Airwallex has already empowered nearly 1,000 SMEs in Hong Kong with a comprehensive suite of services in the past few years.
“Airwallex for Startups” builds upon Airwallex’s previous successes with the SME Initiative and Go Global campaigns, which have already empowered nearly 1,000 SMEs in Hong Kong with a comprehensive suite of services.
During the “Explore the Innovation Ocean” event in this year’s StartmeupHK—a high-profile, government-backed event organized by Jumpstart—Airwallex introduced a treasure hunt. The quest, offering up to 1,000 Asia Miles, featured activities like crafting custom corporate Visa cards, learning about the hidden bank fees and cross-border FX
payment fees and exploring over 160 local payment options supported by Airwallex. The treasure hunt revolved around several key hints: “unlock boundless growth”, “spend and pay globally”, “go global” and “go where the flow takes you”. These clues cleverly highlighted Airwallex’s real-world offerings, like its borderless Visa cards—a series of free corporate cards offering a 1% cash rebate on local and international spending.
“Airwallex for Startups” is replete with offerings specifically tailored for startups:
1. Lower fees: Startups can transact in multiple currencies with global accounts, eliminating up to 80% of foreign exchange (FX) and 100% of overseas transfer fees. They also benefit from competitive currency exchange rates, which can be as low as 0.2% above the interbank rate.
2. Receive payments digitally: Businesses can use its Payment Acceptance solution to kickstart digital payment processes using a variety of payment methods, such as Visa, Mastercard,
Below: Airwallex has already empowered nearly 1,000 SMEs in Hong Kong with a comprehensive suite of services in the past few years. Image courtesy of Airwallex.
"From the challenges of time management, lack of marketing and sales campaigns, to managing expenses, we want to make things that much easier, and ultimately, provide guidance and offers that can help them succeed, and better streamline operations."
Apple Pay and WeChat Pay.
3. Seamless expense management: Startups can manage expenses effortlessly by creating free virtual and physical cards for both offline and online purchases. These cards are accepted wherever Visa is, all without incurring FX fees or hidden charges.
4. Gain a sense of community: “Airwallex for Startups” recognizes the challenge of connecting with the right mentors and partners for startups. Its platform aims to streamline this process, providing valuable networking opportunities for emerging businesses.
Ultimately, “Airwallex for Startups” aims to replicate Airwallex’s success story for other startups, offering comprehensive solutions that minimize fees, facilitate digital payments, simplify expense management and foster connections within the startup community. This program is a gateway for startups to realize their global ambitions without the need for a coffee shop experiment.
Airwallex boasts a global footprint across 20 locations and supports over 100,000 businesses. To date, the business has raised over US$900 million and is valued at over US$5.6 billion. Its comprehensive platform offers a suite of financial tools designed for modern businesses, including global accounts for streamlined local and international fund transfers in various currencies, unified bill payment solutions, borderless company Visa cards and robust expense management.
Alinda Gupta is an editor at Jumpstart.
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From barter to blockchain, the concept of money has evolved and might be headed in a new direction.
From the basic barter system to the seamless swipe of a smartphone, money has always been a cornerstone of human civilization. Throughout history, currency has continually evolved to meet the demands of society.
As we face the emergence of digital assets, drawing parallels between the development of traditional currency and the rise of digital money systems can provide invaluable insights into the future of money. Understanding these comparisons can help us navigate the uncertainties surrounding the adoption of digital currencies.
Worth its weight in gold: A brief history of money
Before the 20th century, the evolution of money began with the humble bartering of goods and services, such as the exchange of pelts, animals and weapons. However, as communities grew, the limitations of barter became apparent—each party must coincidentally to need something that the other has, and there was no common way to measure value.
By the 20th century, the gold standard had become the dominant monetary system. Under this system, a country’s currency was tied to its gold reserves. This linkage provided stability as it limited the government’s ability to arbitrarily increase the money supply, which helped control inflation.
Nevertheless, the gold standard had significant drawbacks. Since there was a limited supply of gold, it hindered and limited a government’s ability to adjust interest rates, print money and respond quickly to economic shifts, such as recessions. The global economy’s plunge into crisis in the 1930s, following World War I and the Great Depression, led governments to abandon the gold standard in favor of more flexible monetary policies to stimulate economic growth.
The rise of the fragile fiat currency
PBy YUN CHEN
ost the gold standard, governments worldwide began to issue their own fiat currencies. Fiat money, not backed by any physical commodity like gold or silver, derives its value solely from the public’s trust in the government that issues it.
This transition brought significant benefits, such as giving governments and central banks the ability to set monetary policies, control the money supply and maintain financial stability. Central banks
Cryptocurrencies may seem revolutionary, but their emergence actually mirrors the historical move from gold-backed money to paper money.
could now use different tools like interest rate adjustments to influence economic conditions and achieve policy goals.
However, the fiat system is not without its challenges. It can be vulnerable to government misuse of the power to print money, potentially leading to hyperinflation and a significant erosion of the currency’s purchasing power. Furthermore, without physical commodity backing, fiat currencies are susceptible to speculative attacks and currency crises, as experienced by many countries in recent decades.
While we rely on it daily, fiat money’s stability is a delicate dance that requires careful management. These concerns sparked the exploration of new kinds of currency—one that exists outside government and central authority controls: cryptocurrencies.
Historical parallels for the crypto age
Cryptocurrencies may seem revolutionary, but their emergence actually mir-
rors the historical move from gold-backed money to paper money. Just as fiat currencies once disrupted the gold standard, digital assets are now shaking up the dominance of fiat currency by offering an alternative monetary system.
At first, the public was highly skeptical about the concept of paper money. People found it hard to accept that these pieces of paper could carry significant value, especially when compared to the tangible heft of gold. Today, we see a similar pattern with cryptocurrencies. They assign value to digital tokens, which can feel even more abstract and elusive.
Despite initial doubts, fiat money eventually became the trusted norm worldwide. A big part of its success came from developing a solid infrastructure— think reliable banks that could issue and regulate money, along with efficient settlement systems that made it easy for people to access, transfer and spend their cash.
Currently, cryptocurrencies are playing catch-up in terms of infrastructure. But things are quickly changing, driven by rapid technological advances and growing interest from both the public and private sectors. As this infrastructure continues to develop, digital currencies may also gain broader acceptance and trust.
Companies like Coinbase, Gemini and Bitpay are developing crypto payment gateways that facilitate seamless settlement of digital currencies. Even major banks like JPMorgan Chase, DBS Bank and Tamasek have formed consortiums to enable realtime cross-border payments using tokenized bank deposits.
With ongoing investments in secure, user-friendly platforms and their integration into existing payment systems, cryptocurrencies have the potential to become a trusted and integral part of the global financial landscape.
The most promising path forward might be if key players in the traditional financial system create bridges connecting fiat monetary frameworks to emerging digital alternatives.
Central banks around the world are already exploring and developing their own “Central Bank Digital Currencies”(CBDCs). These digital versions of national currencies could offer the stability of fiat money while harnessing the efficiency and security of blockchain technology and digital transactions. For example, the People’s Bank of China is piloting its digital yuan (e-CNY), which aims to complement cash and provide an alternative to the dominance of Alipay and WeChat Pay.
The ongoing digital revolution in financial systems represents the latest chapter in the long arc of monetary evolution. Just as the shift from barter to the gold standard to fiat currency reshaped the global economy, the rise of cryptocurrencies and digital assets holds the potential to fundamentally transform how we perceive and utilize money.
As we move forward, the evolution of financial technology and monetary systems will continue to redefine how we transact, save and invest.
Yun is a popular video blogger and part-time writer. Yun graduated from Franklin & Marshall College before getting his J.D. degree from Cornell Law School. He has held positions at a top international law firm prior to joining a major investment bank.
Yc934@cornell.edu
Booking flights and surgeries: the new frontier for bold business minds.
By RELENA SEI
Despite a temporary setback due to the coronavirus pandemic, medical tourism is witnessing a robust recovery and remarkable growth in recent years. According to Statista, medical tourism was valued at approximately US$47 billion as of 2024 and is projected to reach a market size of over US$111 billion by 2029. These figures not only highlight the immense potential and profitability of the industry but also signal abundant opportunities for entrepreneurs eager to tap into this bourgeoning industry.
Collaboration opportunities for startups in the travel industry
Startups in the travel sector can explore opportunities to forge strategic partnerships with healthcare facilities around the world. By combining forces, these collaborations can offer clients comprehensive
packages that combine travel and exploration with medical services, creating a holistic experience. This approach to healthcare travel can be achieved by integrating travel logistics, accommodation, local experiences and pre and post-treatment care. Startups can play a role in creating innovative solutions that enhance the overall experience for medical tourists, thus differentiating themselves in this competitive market.
Insurance companies and cross-border coverage
The surge in medical tourism also presents a golden opportunity for innovative insurance to adapt and offer specialized packages that cater to the unique needs of medical tourists. These packages may include cross-border insurance coverage or policies specifically tailored for medical tourism. Entrepreneurs can explore oppor-
The expanding medical tourism industry presents an array of opportunities for startups and entrepreneurs.
tunities to develop customized insurance solutions that provide peace of mind to individuals seeking healthcare abroad.
Technology has become an indispensable part of our lives, and its integration into the medical tourism industry offers tremendous potential. Entrepreneurs can develop user-friendly platforms, that simplify the process of researching, booking and managing medical tourism packages. Innovative technology solutions can aim to streamline communication between medical tourists, healthcare providers and travel agencies, fostering a seamless and stress-free experience for all parties involved.
Human resources and international medical staff
As medical tourism continues to grow, there is an increasing need for a skilled and diverse workforce capable of meeting the unique needs of international patients. Startups can leverage this trend by focusing on human resources within the medical industry. Specialized HR agencies that recruit medical professionals proficient in the client’s native language and familiar with their culture are crucial for ensuring the smooth delivery of healthcare services.
Tthriving
he expanding medical tourism industry presents an array of opportunities for startups and entrepreneurs. By capitalizing on these opportunities, entrepreneurs can carve out a niche in this thriving market. With the right vision, innovation and adaptability, aspiring entrepreneurs can seize the moment and embark on a journey that combines business success with helping individuals access affordable, quality healthcare across borders.
Relena Sei is the CEO and Editorial Director of Jumpstart
In the tempest of cancel culture, where tweets become tidal waves and reputations hang in the balance, brands must learn to calm the waters.
By NASIR AHMED
Out of roughly eight billion people on our planet, around 5.44 billion are connected to the internet and 5.07 billion engage on social media. This makes today’s world a hyper-connected hub where thoughts and opinions are abundant. At such a time, a single misstep in a marketing campaign can trigger a swift and relentless backlash.
The emergence of cancel culture, fueled by social media, has rewritten the rules for brand behavior. Today, brands are expected to navigate with unprecedented
sensitivity, transparency and accountability. The stakes are high, and failing to meet these expectations can lead to severe repercussions, including damaged reputations and steep financial losses. But the good news is that there are clear strategies that can help brands steer clear of the chaos of cancel culture.
Be culturally sensitive
Cultural insensitivity is one of the most common traps that can lead brands into the crosshairs of cancel culture. For
brands with global reach, it’s crucial to understand and respect a diverse landscape of beliefs, traditions and values. Missteps here can lead to being labeled as tone-deaf or even outright offensive.
H&M’s “Coolest Monkey” incident
In2018, H&M faced global outrage after releasing an ad featuring a black child wearing a hoodie with the phrase “Coolest Monkey in the Jungle”. This sparked accusations of racial insensitivity, which exploded across social media. High-profile celebrities like The Weeknd and G-Eazy cut ties with H&M, and protests erupted in South Africa, leading to the temporary closure of its stores there.
The financial fallout was severe: H&M saw its stock plummet to its lowest since 2005, as reported by Bloomberg. Its profit fell 62% in the first quarter of 2018 amid a backlog of unsold clothing worth more than US$4 billion.
How H&M handled this
In response, H&M apologized and promised to review its internal processes to avoid similar mistakes. The Swedish brand’s official statement said, “We have got this wrong, and we agree that even if unintentional, passive or casual racism needs to be eradicated wherever it exists.”
It also reviewed its leadership as part of its damage control efforts, including appointing its first Global Manager for Diversity and Inclusiveness, Annie Wu, to ensure better cultural sensitivity in future campaigns.
To capture people’s eyeballs, many brands may be tempted to quickly tap into the latest news or debates for their marketing campaigns. While leveraging current events might help boost SEO and draw clicks, it could also spell danger for brands, especially when the content draws from socio-political movements. Without careful planning, such a strategy might be seen as belittling the very struggle they reference.
Pepsi’s 2017 ad
In 2017, Pepsi released an ad featuring Kendall Jenner meant to convey a message of unity and peace. However, the ad was widely criticized for trivializing serious social justice movements, particularly Black Lives Matter. The ad depicted
Yet, the shocking truth is that cancel culture isn’t just a reaction to bad behavior— it’s a demand for better behavior.
Jenner handing a can of Pepsi to a police officer, which many viewed as a tone-deaf attempt to dismiss the struggles faced by protestors.
Irked by this ad, Bernice King, Martin Luther King Jr.’s daughter, posted a photo of a past protest on X, showing her father in conflict with police officers, with the caption: “If only Daddy would have known about the power of #Pepsi.”
How Pepsi handled this
Pepsi quickly pulled the ad and issued an apology. Its official statement said, “Pepsi was trying to project a global message of unity, peace and understanding. Clearly, we missed the mark and apologize. We did not intend to make light of any serious issue. We are pulling the content and halting any further rollout.” This quick action helped Pepsi mitigate longterm damage to its reputation.
And finally, walk the talk when it comes to the environment
Nowmore than ever, actions speak louder than words. Consumers expect brands not only to talk about social and environmental issues but also to take meaningful action. When brands fail to live up to their promises, they can quickly find themselves at the center of cancel culture.
Dubbed the “diesel dupe”, automobile giant Volkswagen was embroiled in one of the biggest environmental scandals in automotive history. In 2015, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found that 482,000 VW diesel cars in the U.S. had a “defeat device” that manipulated emission tests. This software in diesel engines was designed to detect when the cars were being tested to change the performance of the vehicles and improve the test results. This emission test cheating allowed cars to appear more environmentally friendly than they actually were.
Once caught, VW had to recall 8.5
million, 2.4 million, 1.2 million and 500,000 cars from Europe, Germany, the UK and the U.S. respectively, experiencing a loss of over US$30 billion in fines and damages.
Volkswagen has since launched a massive campaign to regain public trust, including a heavy investment in electric vehicles and rebranding itself as a leader in sustainable mobility. While the company’s image was tarnished, its commitment to rectifying the issue and shifting towards more environmentally friendly technology like e-mobility helped to gradually restore its reputation.
The rise of cancel culture has made the marketing landscape more challenging
but also more lucrative for brands willing to engage authentically with their audiences. Avoiding the chaos of cancel culture requires brands to be proactive, culturally aware and true to their values.
As demonstrated by the examples above, the cost of a misstep can be swift and brutal. Yet, the shocking truth is that cancel culture isn’t just a reaction to bad behavior—it’s a demand for better behavior. It’s a call for brands to actively contribute to a more inclusive and responsible world.
In the end, those who heed this call, understand the power of their platforms and use them wisely will not just dodge chaos but flourish in this new landscape. Brands that ignore these lessons do so at their peril, risking their reputation and their very survival in an increasingly conscientious market.
Nasir Ahmed is a Staff Writer at Jumpstart.
folio rebalances to meet individual client needs. To learn more about how WealthRyse is guiding its clients toward successful financial outcomes, the Jumpstart Team recently spoke with co-founders David and Bernard to gain more insights.
A story of diverse backgrounds and a shared vision
David’s journey began in Oklahoma. After spending some time in Asia during his youth, he returned to the U.S., earning a law degree from Harvard. His career evolved from a Wall Street lawyer to an investment banker at Credit Suisse (now known as UBS), eventually leading him to a role as a portfolio manager at a regional private equity fund.
Bernard, on the other hand, pursued a path steeped in technology, attending Princeton with a double major in engineering and the Woodrow Wilson School. He also earned a master’s degree in computer science at Stanford and a PhD in Quantitative Finance from Imperial College, UK. His resume includes being a
“We aim to scale the business to serve wealth advisors and asset managers wherever they may be.”
managing director in the Portfolio Management Group at BlackRock in New York and having side professorial appointments at top universities. Moreover, he sits on editorial boards and steering committees of leading academic journals/venues and is a board member of one of the alumni boards at Stanford.
David and Bernard’s paths first crossed six years ago at an Accenture accelerator program. Despite their diverse backgrounds—David in law and finance, Bernard in tech and quants—their shared vision for utilizing AI in financial advisory laid the foundation for their collaboration.
WealthRyse harnesses a proprietary data lake and AI engine to deliver a comprehensive business-to-businessto-consumer (B2B2C) solution. Its core offering is Genisys, a platform that makes managing assets easier and simpler for people. Much like a terminal-style platform offered by Bloomberg and Reuters, Genisys offers a seamless “plug-and-play” experience, acting as a trusted digital co-pilot for wealth advisors and asset managers looking to expand the scope of their assets under management with advanced tools.
Genisys learns from investment patterns and customizes portfolios to fit individual client needs using advanced techniques like dynamic programming and real-time relearning—similar to how Google’s AlphaGo identifies the highest probability winning move by playing most, if not all, possible games to completion. This system processes large volumes of data quickly and transparently, offering rebalancing advice that builds trust between advisors and clients.
What sets Genisys apart is its efficiency and adaptability. The platform automates essentially all core asset management steps once an investor is onboarded, facilitating rapid, real-time data-driven portfolio adjustments. It uses predictive analytics to generate detailed rebalancing reports and actionable insights, scientifically validated to outperform human portfolio managers. Moreover, Genisys allows wealth advisors
and asset managers to create customized funds with simple parameters, enhancing the personalization of investment experiences.
Davidbelieves that sophisticated wealth management tools should be accessible to all, not just the moneyed elite. WealthRyse is committed to democratizing financial technology and simplifying financial planning.
“Financial advisors sell advice,” David notes. “To do so effectively, they need to produce, create and market robust rebalancing strategies.” The on-demand rebalancing capabilities of Genisys optimize its neural networks and algorithms, enabling daily adjustments and offering the best-unbiased improvement estimates for portfolios.
A resilient beginning
“
Throughout our journey, the most challenging part has always been dealing with the uncertainty of innovation,” shares Bernard. “When you’re try-
Below: David Lee, Director of WealthRyse. Image courtesy of WealthRyse.
ing to do something that’s never been done before, there’s no roadmap. You’re in uncharted territory, and every step forward is a step into the unknown in order to refine our AI technology to suit the needs of the market.”
From the start, WealthRyse has faced numerous challenges, including skepticism and setbacks from partners and competitors. Many predecessors in the field with expectations of success have attempted similar innovations but failed, making it crucial for WealthRyse not just to differentiate itself but to genuinely solve the problems faced by users. This meant rejecting the allure of creating “exotic” AI technologies in favor of developing practical, market-fit solutions that actual users could integrate seamlessly into their operations.
“It’s like being in a dark room and trying to find the light switch. You stumble, you fall, but you keep going because you believe in the vision and you achieve it,” Bernard adds. “Long story short, we ended up tweaking the platform until it was as easy to use as a data terminal solution from Bloomberg or Reuters, powered by a user-friendly frontend to allow wealth advisors and asset managers to rebalance portfolios instantly.”
Despite many hurdles, the team’s
determination never wavered. “We’ve never really given up,” David remarks. “All these challenges have become part of our company’s DNA, born from our resilience and driven by our belief and vision.” This deep-seated persistence is the fuel to their mission of empowering financial advisors and helping clients grow their wealth through AI and technology.
Milestones, future plans and the outlook of AI
Since its inception, WealthRyse has achieved significant milestones, including securing a major client in Asia within just two months of launching. The company also proudly received the “Most Innovative Use of Technology” award at the FinanceAsia Awards 2023-2024.
“We are deeply honored to receive this award from FinanceAsia, which serves as a testament to our team’s tireless efforts in developing solutions for the wealth management industry”, David comments. Further accolades include the “Best Client Advisory Solutions Platform by a Vendor” and “Best Disruptive Solution”.
Looking ahead, David reveals plans to expand WealthRyse’s technological capa-
bilities and scale its business globally. This includes forging new partnerships with cloud providers and large financial technology firms to enhance its solutions for rebalancing and portfolio management.
“Our plans are simple,” Bernard adds. “We aim to scale the business to serve wealth advisors and asset managers wherever they may be.” The ultimate vision for WealthRyse is to become the Alibaba or Amazon for wealth advisors and asset managers of all sizes, democratizing access to sophisticated financial tools.
Agreeing with Bernard, David concludes, “As people talk about our AI and WealthRyse possibly becoming the next big success story or ‘unicorn’, we need to continue to be grounded and ignore the hype to achieve what Bernie and I promised each other. Our focus is on using Genisys to help wealth advisors give accurate, tailored portfolio suggestions on demand, and we’re dedicated to pushing boundaries and shaping the future of financial guidance, step by step.”
The expansion plan focuses not just on growth, but also on promoting financial literacy and sustainable wealth management. This commitment aligns with WealthRyse’s dedication to environmental,
social and governance (ESG) principles, emphasizing practical ways to construct ESG-conscious portfolios. David and Bernard are confident that their technology will have a profound societal impact by providing essential tools for managing wealth and improving the financial futures of families and individuals globally.
Regarding the future of AI in wealth and asset management, Bernard envisions transformative changes. He expects AI to automate most of the routine tasks and scale up to offer virtual business environments. These advancements are expected to automate functions currently played by investment advisors and research analysts. Ultimately, this automation will help wealth advisors and asset managers deliver more personalized client services. Innovations such as video avatars and virtual client advisors are anticipated to turn mainstream, deepening the engagement between advisors and clients.
As David and Bernard continue to push the boundaries of AI and its application in wealth advisory, WealthRyse’s future is bright, set to redefine global financial services delivery and experience. Sayantika Chatterjee is a staff writer at Jumpstart.
Gwyneth Paltrow’s vagina-scented candle might signal that things have gone too far, but can celebrities transform the fate of startups for the better?
By ALINDA GUPTA
Stars are but big exploding balls of gas. Funny as that may sound, you can’t help but look up at them and admire them and even wish upon them as they fall from the sky. Yet, unbeknownst to many, the “shooting star” is, in fact, a meteoroid, not a star falling from the heavens. Galactic stars might not be all that different from those around us in human form. After all, when stars explode—in a phenomenon known as a supernova—they cause quite a bit of damage. The anthropology lesson aside, many brands have used star power by way of employing celebrities as brand ambassadors. While many have benefitted from the twinkle, others have been at the receiving end of a supernova. Are celebrity endorsements still all the rage for startups, or is your brand the overlooked star?
The evolving concept of celebrities
Today, a celebrity is not just someone you admire, sitting across a silver screen, but any person who can grab your attention. Social media have widened the playing field, giving any digital user the chance to become a celebrity, sometimes
through just one viral video.
The pandemic further accelerated this redefinition, as traditional celebrities who appear to be too detached from reality lost their appeal. Social media influencers, on the other hand, captured the throne. Their relatable content made them celebrities for the masses. Moreover, celebrities—both traditional and social media stars—have discovered the true potential of their own star power and are no longer in the business of being just intermediaries between products and people. They are becoming entrepreneurs themselves, departing from being spokespeople for other brands.
The booms and busts of celebrity endorsements
Celebrityendorsements are fraught with both triumphs and tribulations. Amber Heard and her Aquaman movie controversy following the public trials against Johnny Depp. Ye (formerly Kanye) West and his fallout with Adidas after making controversial, racist remarks. Elon Musk’s tweets dissing and promoting crypto, making Bitcoin prices ride the rollercoaster. The downsides of celebrity endorsements are wide-ranging (and
widely discussed). However, it’s not all doom and gloom.
Thanks to Michael Jordan’s partnership with Nike, the beloved Air Jordans made up about 11% of Nike’s shoe sales in the U.S. in 2009. In 2021, fast food chain McDonald’s launched a “BTS Meal” that boosted its sales—US$8 million well-spent for the company. In 2020, TikTok star Charli D’Amelio and her successful stint with Dunkin’ Donuts significantly boosted app downloads—a 57% increase—for the brand. These are great examples of times when celebrity endorsements did not disappoint. A study found that, on average, collaborating with an endorser can shoot up the company’s stock price by 4%.
Celebrity endorsements make a compelling case for both being and not being included. But—
Does your startup really need a star to be one?
If renowned brands, such as Tesla, Patek Philippe and Patagonia, have taught us anything, it’s that even without celebrity endorsements, brands can go far. Tesla is one of the most coveted brands in the world, which once recorded an all-time-high market cap of US$1 trillion. In March 2023, the Patek Philippe Sky Moon Tourbillon sold for a whopping US$5.8 million, making it the most expensive watch ever sold at an online auction. Patagonia has a host of wins in its arsenal, including the UN Champions of the Earth award and, perhaps, the most crucial: consumer trust.
Moreover, there’s growing evidence that consumer engagement with ads may actually increase in the absence of celebrities. A major reason could be how people are now more critical of the authenticity of celebrity endorsement. This shift suggests that the effectiveness of celebrity endorsements may be waning in favor of genuine brand-consumer connections.
It’s safe to say that stars do not guarantee constellations when it comes to enhancing your startup’s impact. For startups pondering the galaxy of marketing possibilities, whether you need a celebrity depends on your brand identity, competitors, awareness and the value the celebrity would bring to your startup. In the end, the most enduring light may well emanate from the core of the brand itself, shining through authentic engagement and genuine connections with its audience.
Alinda Gupta is an editor at Jumpstart.
Artificial wombs may soon offer a nurturing alternative for vulnerable premature babies.
By ARJITA GANGULY
The journey from pregnancy to motherhood is anything but easy. In the United States, around 6% of married women experience difficulties conceiving after a year of trying, with another 14% facing challenges in carrying a pregnancy to full term. The World Health Organization (WHO) reveals that in 2020 alone, 13.4 million babies were born preterm, and preterm birth complications are the leading cause of death in children under five years of age, accounting for roughly 900,000 deaths in 2019. Furthermore, over 300,000 women die annually from pregnancy or childbirth complications.
Among the latest innovations in medical science, one might be offering hope and a solution to these age-old challenges—enter artificial womb technology.
Artificial womb technology aims to offer a nurturing alternative for the most vulnerable premature babies. It simulates the conditions of a natural womb, potentially providing a lifestyle choice for women and opening new paths to parenthood for LGBTQ individuals.
One such project making strides is led by Maxima Medical Centre (MMC) in the Netherlands and speculative designer Lisa Mandemaker. Mandemaker’s design, as she detailed in an interview with the BBC, includes balloons acting as artificial wombs, where babies are immersed in a fluid that mimics their natural prenatal environment. These are connected to tubes that supply the baby with necessary nutrients and oxygen, akin to a mother’s placenta. This setup aims to let premature babies develop safely until they’re ready for
the world outside.
Once a baby is born prematurely, it will be seamlessly transitioned into the artificial womb. The baby will then be connected to an artificial placenta that
supplies oxygen and nutrients, just like in the natural gestational environment. After sufficient development, the infant is gently transitioned out of the artificial womb, ready to start life in the outside world.
However, the concept isn’t new. In 2017, researchers at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) conducted successful experiments with premature lambs in artificial wombs called “biobags”. The lambs were observed to have normal growth and organ development, showcasing the technology’s potential to support life-saving alternatives in reproductive medicine.
Dr. Guid Oei, a gynecologist at MMC, believes that artificial wombs could offer a safer, more controlled environment for fetal development than traditional
incubators, which can harm extremely preterm babies’ lungs with their air-based environment. Artificial wombs, by replicating amniotic fluid conditions, could theoretically improve survival rates and health outcomes for these babies.
Beyond its medical applications, artificial womb technology also represents a profound shift in how society approaches conception, pregnancy and the early stages of life, making it a topic of both excitement and ethical debate.
While the primary focus of artificial womb technology is to provide critical support for premature babies, some are envisioning a much bolder future—ectogenesis, the development of babies from conception to birth in an artificial setting. A molecular biologist, science communi-
cator and filmmaker in Berlin, Hashem Al-Ghaili, is one of them.
In 2022, Al-Ghaili released a concept video on YouTube of an artificial womb facility called “EctoLife”. It portrays a futuristic lab with the capacity to nurture 30,000 lab-grown babies annually. The video illustrates an animated facility reminiscent of a stadium, filled with rows of AI-enhanced growth pods. Each pod cradles an IVF-created baby in a liquid environment, meticulously monitoring its development and screening for genetic markers.
Parents could engage in interactive experiences like selecting music or feeling simulated kicks via a smartphone app and haptic suit. EctoLife even proposes an “Elite Package” to enable genetic customization of traits like eye color, skin tone and intelligence before implantation as well as a home-based baby incubation option.
EctoLife ambitiously aims to render C-sections and the risks of premature
Artificial wombs could offer a safer, more controlled environment for fetal development.
births “a thing of the past”, providing new hope for infertile couples and those medically unable to conceive. It also positions itself as a strategic response to declining birth rates globally.
Sounds dystopian and far-fetched? Well, for now, it’s just a concept conceived by Al-Ghaili but not a real-life project. Researchers even described ectogenesis as “a technically and developmentally naive, yet sensationally speculative, pipe dream”. However, it does shed light on many issues our world is facing today: decreasing birth rates, growing infertility rates and dwindling desire to have kids. As reproductive technology like artificial wombs continues to advance, it might be the time to reimagine the boundaries of what’s possible in the realm of family creation and neonatal care.
With great potential comes significant ethical considerations. Questions arise about its impact on a baby’s physical development and the psychological effects on both the child and biological parents, particularly in terms of bonding. The technology challenges traditional views of parenthood and pregnancy and intersects with issues of women’s rights, abortion legislation and healthcare equality.
In September 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) advisory committee discussed the human trials of artificial wombs, focusing on the necessary data, regulatory frameworks and ethical considerations. This marked a significant step toward addressing the complex scientific, technical and ethical challenges that artificial womb technology must navigate before becoming a viable medical option.
Currently, artificial womb technology remains in the realm of experimentation. However, the intense interest and ongoing debates within scientific and ethical circles are evident in the technology’s transformative potential for reproductive medicine and human development.
Arjita Ganguly is the Project Director at Jumpstart.
Recession, mass layoffs, infectious diseases and a whole lot of upheaval—what will it take for businesses to return to form?
By ALINDA GUPTA
An entrepreneur launches a business with a handful of airtight goals: make money, live long (enough to beat competitors at the very least), perhaps change the world and, finally, hang up the boots when it’s time. It’s simple enough, well-defined, open and shut. But then, lo and behold, a pandemic comes along. Countries erupt into violence, supply chains break down, people quit jobs, prices skyrocket, and the stock market comes to a grinding halt—all in a span of three years—and there you are, questioning the vision with which you started your business.
The past few years have left many wondering whether they should have adopted the traits of a chronic overthinker and prepared for every contingency, including a possible alien invasion and a shift to Mars.
Even so, while you cannot control your business to the T, you can execute an action plan to rebuild it better than ever. Here’s how.
Ironic as it sounds, Harvard Business Review reported that building redundancies might actually cushion the blow in unpredictable circumstances. Essentially, it means establishing different systems that achieve the same goal to keep the operation going despite chaotic times, like supply chain crises and Covid-19. Of course, its pitfalls are not lost on us, and one of the primary concerns is being left with excess inventory. Not all redundancies are good, and that’s where your business sense comes into play, where you must consider the cost-reward of each element.
If the philosophy doesn’t ring true, let the past few years serve as evidence. The worst-case scenario might not be the most pleasant of considerations, but at a time of uncertain situations, it might reveal the best-case outcomes. When running a business, attempt to go by Murphy’s Law and prepare for every possible risk, especially if you are dabbling in cryptocurrency. To do so, you could host a brainstorming session with your team, invite ideas from employees in a monthly risk assessment survey and study other businesses and how they navigate tough times.
DuringCovid-19, the firms that did best were those that adapted their strategies to suit changing consumer needs. Where people wanted safety, entertainment and a semblance of normalcy, businesses showed up, providing services like Click and Collect, curbside pick-ups, virtual experiences, discounts and much more. During unpredictable times, you might have to review your resources’ allocation and consider necessary changes, if any.
You might be tempted to pump more money into your primary product even though it is not the most profitable. That is where a more decisive approach to fund allocation comes into play. Study the economic environment, consumer needs, and reallocate funds to a product from your portfolio or a particular department within your business that could best align with market demands.
Partnerships were the name of the game for many businesses during Covid-19. It was a survival strategy for some and an opportunistic undertaking for others. For instance, in August 2020, a few months into the pandemic, furniture retailer Ikea teamed up with construction toy company Lego to create a combined storage and play solution. At a time when families were holed up at home with school closures, the potential for domestic conflict was at an all-time high, especially if you lived in compact homes. Here, Lego and Ikea saw a pain point and addressed it swiftly.
Additionally, collaboration does not necessarily have to be external. Internal collaboration is just as important. By involving employees in decision-making, you can rebuild your company for prosperity. Since employees already know the business inside-out, they will have relevant ideas that can improve your business.
“By 2025, smart workflows and seamless interactions among humans and machines will likely be as standard as the corporate balance sheet,” a 2022 McKinsey report predicted. Data is and will continue to be the bedrock of understanding your consumers, products and the inner workings of your business. This is integral, given that, ultimately, the fate of your company rests in the hands of your clients, whether they are other businesses or customers. By now, businesses have already begun reimagining their offerings to be more tailored and efficient. But to constantly stay on top of customer needs so that you can meet expectations, you need to optimally use big data analytics. You can also employ artificial intelligence (AI) tools, machine learning and conversational chatbots to improve the overall customer experience.
Firstoff, huge props to businesses that have managed to stay afloat—and bigger props if they managed to retain their entire workforce—over the past few years. Of course, difficult but necessary decisions had to be made, putting leaders’ emotional and intellectual capacities to the test. This year will come to a close in a matter of months, giving businesses a new lease on life—a chance to rebuild their businesses for prosperity.
Alinda Gupta is an editor at Jumpstart.
E-commerce giants Temu and Shein are on a mission to smash Amazon’s monopoly—will they succeed?
By IVY KWONG
Over the past decade, Amazon has become all but synonymous with online shopping. In large part, that has to do with its vast product selection, rapid delivery speeds and the sheer convenience of shopping from home.
For ten consecutive years leading up to 2022, the platform boasted an average revenue growth rate of 25.7% per annum. However, things changed in 2022. With Temu’s entry into the U.S. market, Amazon recorded its first single-digit revenue growth since its IPO in 1997.
Chinese e-commerce platforms Shein and Temu have been quietly growing big-
ger for years. Now, they rank among the most popular online shopping destinations in the U.S. They specialize in affordable women’s fashion, household products and decor. Impressively, Shein doubled its profit to US$2 billion in 2023 in the U.S., surpassing its rivals H&M (US$820 million) and the UK’s Primark (US$942 million).
Temu, on the other hand, reported a revenue surge of over 130% in the first quarter of 2024, reaching US$12 billion. This growth helped PDD, Temu’s parent company, overtook Alibaba’s spot as China’s most valuable e-commerce company in December 2023.
As for user engagement, both Temu
and Shein have seen consistent growth in their monthly active users (MAUs). In April, Temu boasted 47 MAUs in the U.S. in April, while Shein had almost 30 million.
Notably, Temu has dominated the U.S. iPhone and Android app stores this year, frequently topping the charts as of the most downloaded free apps, according to market intelligence firm Sensor Tower. On the other hand, Amazon has experienced a decline, with a drop of four million to 66 million in its MAU base since Temu’s launch in 2022.
How Temu and Shein turned the tide in their favor
At first glance, what draws customers to Temu and Shein are their ultra-low pricing, attractive discounts and free shipping. But the real secret to their success lies in their innovative business models and strategic approaches.
The tax loophole in the U.S. helps keep costs low
Onesignificant advantage Temu and Shein enjoy is a tax loophole in the U.S. that helps keep their costs low. Referred to as the “de minimis” exemption, this loophole allows them to directly ship products from China to customers in the U.S. without the usual customs processes for commercial goods or paying duty or import taxes on individual packages valued under US$800. This exemption significantly reduces costs, shipping time and the need for warehouse storage. In contrast, Amazon typically follows a traditional approach, where products are ordered in bulk, stored in warehouses and shipped to customers. Steve Story, the Executive Vice President of Customs and International Trade at Apex Logistics International, a logistics firm shipping de minimis products, told TIME magazine, “Why hold inventory in the States when you can let your supplier hold that inventory and ship? If American companies don’t embrace this approach, they risk being left behind.”
Blending retail with games: The “Buy Again” strategy
Shopping on Shein and Temu feels like entering a digital shopping mall filled with elements of games and casinos. These platforms engage users by offering points and discounts for daily logins, sharing
purchases on social media and referring friends.
This gamified approach encourages users to return frequently, earn more rewards and make purchases. Both companies have optimized their platforms to increase the amount of time users spend on them, employing a “Buy Again” strategy. Conversely, Amazon follows a “Buy Now” approach, which simplifies the purchasing process to a single click.
Shein and Temu are capitalizing on the fast fashion trend by utilizing big data. Using the “large-scale automated test and re-order” (LATR) model, Shein adopts a process where it purchases small batches of each style—sometimes as few as a dozen. It then uses big data to measure customer response.
Let’s say a BLACKPINK t-shirt sells out quickly on Shein. Taking note of this demand, Shein immediately places more orders. This strategy allows Shein to add around 2,000 new products to its website daily, based on users’ preferences. This A/B testing approach avoids the need for large initial orders of potentially unpopular styles.
Temu follows a similar strategy, leveraging real-time customer feedback to guide production decisions. It lists limited
“Why hold inventory in the States when you can let your supplier hold that inventory and ship? If American companies don’t embrace this approach, they risk being left behind.”
quantities of products, restocking popular items frequently and phasing out less popular ones.
Both Temu and Shein assert that this strategy reduces their carbon footprint by aligning product supply with real-time demand, offering a diverse range of products. However, fast fashion could lead to overconsumption and rapid disposal, posing sustainability issues. Additionally, Shein has faced several backlash regarding the working conditions at some of its suppliers.
So, what does this mean for Amazon?
Temu and Shein have surpassed Amazon in several areas, including their business models and strategies to reduce costs. They have also enhanced customer stickiness and retention rates by implementing the “Buy Again” strategy. Temu, in particular, boasts an impressive rate of
customer return—over 28% of its customers come back to the platform 16 months after their initial purchase. This rate is nearly double that of Walmart and Target but only half of Amazon’s. Moreover, both Temu and Shein foster a sense of community in the online shopping experience through referral discounts.
Recognizing these competitive threats, Amazon is now planning to collaborate with Chinese sellers, enabling direct shipment of products from China to American customers, thus leveraging the “de minimis” advantage. According to an Amazon presentation shared with sellers, a dedicated section for discounted products will feature a wide range of unbranded items priced under US$20.
While Amazon has yet to announce a specific launch date for this initiative, the presentation indicates plans to start accepting products in the upcoming fall season. Undoubtedly, the competition is fierce, and while Amazon has seen a dip in market shares, it remains committed to staying competitive.
Introducing a new discounted section is a strategic and smart move. It shows that Amazon understands the need to innovate and offer enticing incentives to maintain its edge in the dynamic e-commerce landscape. Ivy Kwong is the Accelerator Program Manager and Partnership and Marketing Manager at Jumpstart.
By ALINDA GUPTA & BONNIE LI
He shoots, he scores—be it in basketball or business.
“The business of basketball pretty much taught me about business off the court after retiring.”
“ “
In the sports arena, the
transition from athlete to entrepreneur is common—and often expected. The likes of Earvin “Magic” Johnson and Michael Jordan have set precedents. These star players have turned their stellar sports careers into successful business empires that span
industries and continents. Their journeys offer a blueprint on how to leverage fame and influence gained on the basketball court into sustainable business ventures that outlast even the most celebrated athletic careers.
Among these high-flying stories, Marbury’s story stands out—not just for its highs and lows but for its geographical and cultural breadth. Known for his lightning speed and sharp shooting on the NBA courts, the “Rolls-Royce of point guards” has defined his second act with his extensive endeavors in China. From the gritty basketball courts in Brooklyn to the business boardrooms of Beijing, Marbury has reinvented himself as a global businessman.
Since his early basketball career, Marbury had dipped his toes into entrepreneurship. His sneaker brand, Starbury, dared the high-priced market norms set by giants like Nike and Adidas by making quality, affordable athletic wear accessible to the masses. Years later, he made his way back into affordable footwear with his Xavier3 line.
Most recently, Marbury has ventured into technology and embraced innovations that intersect with lifestyle and fashion. As the Chief Brand Officer for New York-based Chamelo Inc., he oversees the launch of the world’s first color-changing smart lenses.
On a sunny afternoon, Marbury sat down with the Jumpstart team to share his expansive journey from the familiar courts of America to the bustling markets of China. His story is one of resilience, adaptability and growth, proving how the end of one game can be the beginning of another. That day, the air felt different in the Jumpstart office, infused with a renewed energy—that’s the magic of Marbury.
Growing up in Coney Island, New York, Marbury faced the harsh realities of life in the ghetto. He knows what it’s like to have nothing and everything, he knows the value of community, and he knows the power of being different.
Marbury hails from a lineage of formidable basketball players—his brother once squared off against Michael Jordan in college and taught his siblings the art of mastering this game. As the youngest of seven children, Marbury’s skill on the court was evident from a young age. It gave him a platform and visibility that few in his community could dream of.
His talent led him to a celebrated col-
legiate career at Georgia Tech, and subsequently, to the NBA, where he dazzled his fans with his skill as a point guard. His 13-year journey in the NBA saw him light up scoreboards with the Minnesota Timberwolves, New Jersey Nets, Phoenix Suns and New York Knicks, among others.
First dive into entrepreneurship—Starbury
Marbury started exploring the world of entrepreneurship well before hanging up his basketball jersey. His first foray into business, the Starbury line, launched
in 2006 in partnership with Steve & Barry's—one of the largest American retail clothing chains at the time. This venture was both a challenge to the status quo and a reflection of his personal values.
With Starbury, Marbury shook up the high-priced athletic wear market. He offered high-quality basketball shoes and clothing at prices so affordable that no one had to think twice before purchasing.
For context, while brands like Air Jordan, endorsed by his NBA peers, were selling sneakers at triple-digit prices, Starbury shoes hit the shelves at just US$14.98 a pair— without skimping on quality or comfort.
The launch was a bold statement, backed by a massive marketing campaign that leveraged Marbury's NBA fame and his upbringing in a less privileged background. Although the launch did spark considerable media attention and discussion about pricing ethics within the sportswear industry, not everyone was sold on the idea.
Critics and some market analysts questioned whether such low prices were sustainable, questioning the quality and long-term viability of the brand. Despite initial skepticism, the Starbury line quickly turned heads—it flew off the shelves and sold over four million pairs.
Marbury’s Starbury venture was a clear demonstration of his core business philosophy: a strong desire to give back.
“Now, there was a brand called Starbury that people could relate to. People could understand that this brand was coming from someone who comes from the culture—from the housing projects in Coney Island and Brooklyn, New York,” he says. “People who are supporting me and buying my product know that I'm from that same lifestyle and wavelength like them. For me, to be able to transition and do that was pretty cool.”
Marbury’s knack for business shone through with Starbury, especially when it came to his deal-making skills. He didn’t spend a dime or charge anything to kickstart this partnership. At a crucial meeting with brand reps from Steve & Barry’s at a Mr Chow restaurant in New York, Mar-
bury laid down his terms, “I want you to pay for everything, and I want to own everything.”
It was a gutsy move, but Marbury knew his worth. He got Steve & Barry’s to foot the bill for marketing, branding, legal fees for his trademarks and more, all while securing a royalty for himself.
“[Steve & Barry’s was] not paying me from the sales; [they were] paying to have me as [their] partner, working and selling product in [their] stores,” he explains. This strategy not only blew up the Starbury brand but also proved beneficial for Steve & Barry’s.
A new chapter in China: Sports and beyond
After earning accolades as a two-time All-Star player and being named twice to the All-NBA Third Team, Marbury made an unexpected call in 2010.
Within a short span, he experienced profound personal losses: the deaths of his coach, his aunt and his father. These losses put things into perspective for him, at a time when his basketball career seemed to be on a tightrope.
Seeking a fresh start away from the familiar backdrop of American basketball courts, Marbury turned to China—a move that not only revitalized his basketball career but also expanded his global influence and appeal.
“When I landed in China and I saw 5,000 people welcoming me at the airport...that was something that I needed, and China gave me that,” he says. During his tenure in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) until he retired about six years ago, he led the Beijing Ducks to three championship titles.
Marbury's impact in the CBA earned him immense respect and affection from the Chinese people. He was embraced as one of their own, receiving honors rarely bestowed upon foreign athletes. They built a statue of him, dedicated a museum to his career and even produced a musical about his life.
In 2014, Marbury was named the 30th honorary citizen of Beijing after leading his team, the Ducks, to their second championship. The following year, in recognition of his contributions and impacts, he was granted a Chinese green card—a rare feat, given that only 5,000 were issued between 2004 and 2015.
The locals affectionately nicknamed him “Lao Ma”—with “Lao” translating to “old” in English and “Ma” derived from
Marbury. This nickname suggests a close, personal connection, as “Lao” is typically added to a last name when addressing a good friend or a respected individual. His fans also called him “Ma Zhengwei”, translating to “Political Commissar Ma”.
His transition from sports to business began to take shape towards the end of his NBA career and blossomed when he moved to China. It was there that his business ambitions found fertile ground. “It's been a great transition. I've learned a lot throughout my time period in China,” Marbury says.
One of his ventures in China was with live-stream e-commerce. Well before live-streaming hit mainstream social media, Marbury was already engaging with it. He hosted 24-hour live streams, interacting with fans in real time. He even made headlines for his boundless energy during these streams—and for eating Vaseline to soothe his throat after hours of talking.
With a solid grasp of live-streaming’s potential, Marbury later partnered with Quantum, a multichannel network (MCN) company based in Beijing. Together, they've been working with content creators to sell products directly through
live broadcasts. “Being able to sell products on live platforms in real-time is pretty powerful,” he notes.
In 2019, he launched Xavier3, a sustainable and trendy fashion label that extends the ethos of his original Starbury line. The name “Xavier3” celebrates the middle name he shares with his son and grandson, as well as their common jersey number.
Xavier3 echoed Marbury’s initial motivation for Starbury to offer affordable fashion items to compete with higher-end brands like Off-White. “My mission is to create opportunities for people to buy something at affordable prices—the lower end of the price spectrum,” Marbury explains.
He credits his competitive edge in the fashion market to his close ties with Chinese manufacturers. “I've gotten the opportunity to position myself to work closely with every major manufacturing company in China, thanks to the relationships built from my basketball days and championships in Beijing,” he shares.
Today, Xavier3 has expanded its presence to various regions, including Beijing, Tianjin and Mongolia.
Chamelo eyewear: Venturing into tech-infused fashion
Stephon
Marbury has always had an eye for opportunity and a knack for innovation. It’s no surprise then that he stepped into the role of Chief Brand Officer of Chamelo Inc., a pioneering company known for creating the world's first color-changing smart lenses.
Chamelo Inc., much like its namesake—the chameleon—adapts to the wearer's needs, changing color and brightness with ease. The technology is quite futuristic, with color-changing lenses, concealed built-in speakers and a microphone—all packaged in a sleek, stylish design.
Chamelo’s mantra, “Be different, see different”, encapsulates its bold vision. With Chamelo, you can ditch your AirPods and make calls directly through your glasses, adjusting lighting with a simple touch.
Marbury, captivated by this technology, embraced such innovation without hesitation. “If you [have] never seen something before and somebody wants to work with you to do something like this, you do this, you don't hesitate on this,” he says.
As for why he was drawn towards eyewear: “That’s the first thing people see when they see your face.” It’s an innovative step
in the direction of fashion technology, and while people may have their opinions—if you’re a social media user, you know—they can’t deny that it's one-of-a-kind.
Marbury adds that another great thing about Chamelo is the team behind it. Marbury met the co-founders, Reid Covington (who also serves as CEO), Mihaela Constantin and Chase Larson in Hong Kong, and through their mutual passion for basketball and innovation, they quickly formed a strong bond.
“When we connected on the vision for eyewear technology, we used basketball analogies for what we could achieve with this tech” he recalls. “This technology has never been seen before…It felt like the moment we first saw Michael Jordan’s dunk from the free-throw line—it left everyone in awe.”
Just like that, Marbury was on board. He sees the vision, and he hopes to make the Chamelo brand bigger.
Marbury strongly believes that you should never forget your roots, no matter how big you get. He is all heart and all about tangible actions.
He told us about “Starbury Give Back Day”, an event where he distributed free
shoes and clothing in Coney Island. “We had two tractor-trailers full of goods pull up... we invited everybody to come to Coney Island, and there were lines stretching down the block as we handed out free items to everyone who showed up.”
For Marbury, these events are essential to his identity and mission, not necessarily for media attention but as enduring human experiences.
Marbury’s commitment extends beyond public events to very personal acts of kindness, particularly towards his family. They've been his rock through all the ups and downs, and he places immense value on that support. Hence, he sees his most significant achievement not as his professional
successes on the basketball court, but in fulfilling a lifelong promise to his mother.
From a young age, he dreamt of buying her a house, seeing it as a way to provide her with the comfort and security that he felt she deserved for her dedication and love towards him and his siblings.
“I always told my mom, ‘When I make it to the NBA, I'm gonna get you the biggest house.’ And she'd be like, ‘You are?’ And then she'd go, ‘Can I get a pool?’ I'm like, ‘You can get a pool too, mom’,” he recalls.
Achieving this dream—lifting his mother out of the ghetto and handing her the keys to her own home—is what he considers his greatest accomplishment.
Spreading basketball culture to his third home—Hong Kong
Retirement hasn't stopped Stephon Marbury from engaging with basketball; in fact, it's given him a new arena to influence. Having already fostered basketball culture through training camps in mainland China, Marbury is now turning his attention to Hong Kong.
In 2023, Marbury’s application for Hong Kong’s Top Talent Pass Scheme (TTPS) was approved in just 24 hours. A Hong Kong resident now, Marbury is eager to help transform Hong Kong into a dynamic hub for sports and entertainment, enhancing the NBA’s footprint in China and drawing attention from the broader ASEAN region.
With new sports facilities popping up in Hong Kong, the growing hype around sports events like the annual Hong Kong Sevens (a rugby seven tournament) and the NBA planning to reach Macau—which is right next door to Hong Kong—Marbury is bullish on NBA’s potential growth in the region. And he wants to be a part of this journey.
He’s particularly keen on introducing WNBA games to Hong Kong, pointing out the rising popularity of players like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, alongside the growing revenue of the WNBA.
To make that happen, Marbury is now putting together a “dream team” of collaborators who share his vision for turning Hong Kong into a dynamic center for sports and entertainment. This team will leverage new facilities to host events ranging from NBA charity games to black-tie affairs and auctions, blending sports into Hong Kong's robust financial and cultural landscape.
Meanwhile, he is collaborating with a local company, KOS International, to potentially set up a sports fund that will further develop Hong Kong’s sports scene. Marbury is also representing the Hong Kong Golf & Tennis Academy and the InspiringHK Sports Foundation, pushing the boundaries of what sports can represent in the city.
He lives by a philosophy that actions speak louder than words. “You can't just say you want to do something. You gotta go for the energy and put the spirit into doing it,” he asserts. People in Hong Kong love basketball; at the same time, their lives—much like those of New Yorkers— are very hectic. But having a space for entertainment and sports makes room for
“positive endorphins”.
“My vision is to help make [NBA’s presence in Hong Kong] bigger because I know basketball. It's one thing that AI can't replace, and that's sports,” Marbury concludes.
“Your lessons are your blessings”—Learn, adapt and thrive
Moving to a new country—especially one with a different language—is often riddled with challenges that truly test your resilience. Stephon Marbury, who has settled half the world away from Coney Island on a different continent, has embraced these challenges with openness and adaptability.
“I let myself be completely vulnerable to love, accept and understand something entirely new. Living in a new culture and space was like stepping into a new dimension—I was preparing to truly live, starting afresh in China,” he explains.
Marbury believes that obstacles like language barriers or cultural differences shouldn't prevent anyone from fully engaging with new experiences and building friendships. “It’s funny; I make friends who can't speak English, and I don’t speak Chinese, but we still manage to communicate. People ask how we do it—I just say, ‘WeChat’,” he laughs.
When facing tough times, Marbury preaches, “Your lessons are your blessings.” Keeping an open mind and being ready to tackle new experiences has proven fruitful for Marbury.
Since his move to China, the positive energy he’s encountered has marked a significant turn in his career. He shares, “I was in the right space and then winning championships in Beijing…being able to win and have a statue in Beijing, I can't even really express how amazing it is.”
His time here and the love he’s received have made Marbury deeply connected to China, going so far as to call it “my country”.
He also stresses the importance of holding onto your values, especially in tough times, a lesson he credits to his mom. “I'm [from] a Christian-based family household… My mom, all she says is look at God. Look what God can do when you trust him… So when I say my blessings come from my lessons, you know, it's really that,” he reflects.
Marbury’s advice for success
Many athletes find the idea of diving into the business world and building
their own brand quite appealing, especially today with widespread access to technology and the power of social media. However, it's not as straightforward as it may seem—there are still plenty of pitfalls to watch out for.
Hence, Marbury strongly advises taking a hands-on approach if you're starting your entrepreneurial journey. “Just be a part of the daily process of whatever you say you want to do. Learn everything step by step, especially how to manage every aspect of your business—from sourcing logistics, accounting, payroll…all the details of each step,” he suggests.
He also highlights the importance of choosing the right business partners—people who are trustworthy and share similar values and goals. Communication and fairness in all business dealings are crucial, according to Marbury, as is the ability to handle financial obligations responsibly and transparently.
To Marbury, “Basketball is life.” It taught him critical life lessons, which he carries into the business world. “[Basketball and business] push my competitive nature.”
Drawing parallels between the skills developed on the basketball court and those needed in business, he says, “You gotta learn how to think on your feet. You also have to learn how to accept losses—they prepare you and make you come back stronger.”
Despite his success in both arenas, Marbury stays grounded. “I didn't build all this by myself. It's all from a higher power. I'm just a vehicle… I’m just being as positive as I can, as I am flawed. I know where my flaws are, and I try to become better in those areas.”
Alinda Gupta and Bonnie Li are editors at Jumpstart.
Swipe up to get this exclusive product and get a 20% discount using my code”—have influencers tapped into their fullest marketing potential?
By SAYANTIKA CHATTERJEE
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve likely encountered these social media calls to action. In the realm of digital marketing, influencer marketing has carved out a massive niche. It is on track to become a US$38.2 billion industry by 2030, thanks to influencers who use platforms like TikTok, YouTube and Instagram to sway consumer choices.
But there’s a new trend on the block: influencers are no longer just peddling other brands’ products; they’re launching their own.
The magnetic pull of influencers
Tograsp why influencers are venturing into brand creation, it’s crucial to first appreciate their substantial sway.
Influencers are the new-age celebrities of the digital world. They wield considerable power to influence consumer behavior through their posts, stories and videos. With the global social media user base expected to balloon to 5.85 billion by 2027, influencers are changing the rules.
Unlike brand ads that scream “buy me”, influencers’ endorsements often appear more sincere and authentic—or at least the perception of it—and feel like trusted advice coming from a friend. It’s this genuineness, coupled with their savvy engagement strategies through DMs, comments and live streams, that has followers willingly opening their wallets.
But there’s only so much that an influencer can juggle. When brand deals keep sliding into their DMs, some influencers turn to influencer marketing platforms to connect with brands (and vice versa) and grow their career.
An example of these platforms is Thailand-based SHOUT!. It matches influenc-
ers with brands to save both parties time and streamline campaign operations. To make sure both parties are a good fit for each other, SHOUT! gathers insights from the influencers’ accounts and suggests campaigns that align with their niche. Influencers can choose to work with brands that they like on their set rates and conditions. Agencies like SHOUT! can leverage their industry experience to help influenc-
ers grow their career and fetch exclusive partnerships and collabs that might otherwise not be accessible to independent influencers.
The fact that over 75% of brands have allocated some budget for influencer marketing proves the impact of influencers in this day and age. Obviously, the opportunities to work with brands are vast for influencers. But upon realizing their impact and reach, some are dreaming bigger and eyeing another pie—launching their own brands and products.
The next chapter: Influencers as brand owners
Theleap from endorsing products to launching personal brands isn’t new. Since the dawn of social media, creator brands have been popping out. Think Ipsy, founded by Michelle Phan—the OG beauty vlogger—in 2011 and reported US$500 million annual revenue in 2019.
Fast forward to today, and the influencer realm has exploded—there were 64 million influencers on Instagram in 2023.
With a growing social media user count (from two billion in 2015 to almost five billion in 2023) and the relatively low marketing cost and high engagement with their loyal followers, the stage is set for more influencers to turn their passion projects into profitable ventures.
Unlike traditional endorsements, having their own labels allows influencers to deeply embed their style and ethos into the products. They are sharing a piece of their world with their followers—and getting some big bucks in return.
Left:
Natvipa Asvinvichit, chief operating officer of SHOUT!
Right: Jirapath Bunyawetcheewin,
chief executive officer
of SHOUT! Below: SHOUT! collaboration with Innisfree in the "Reset your skin with Black Tea" Event at Central World, in Bangkok, Thailand. Image cvourtesy of SHOUT!
Some of the most popular influencer brands include Chiara Ferragni Brand by Chiara Ferragni (annual revenue in 2016: US$20 million), Kylie Cosmetics by Kylie Jenner (expected to make US$360 million in 2024), SKIMS by Kim Kardashian (expected to make US$750 million in 2023), Huda Beauty by Huda Kattan (reported US$200 million revenue in 2023), Sweat workout app by Kayla Itsines (sold for US$400 million in 2021), MrBeast Burger by MrBeast (made US$100 million in revenue a year after its launch), Painted by James Charles and ITEM Beauty by Addison Rae.
Despitethe allure of launching their own brands, transitioning to brand moguls isn’t all sunshine and rainbows for influencers. They face the same hurdles any entrepreneur does: product development headaches, supply chain nightmares and quality control woes. Transitioning from influencers to industry insiders, they also have to grapple with the steep learning curve of business operations and financial risks. And with influencers themselves as the brand’s front and center, keeping their credibility intact is paramount.
Social media, for all its perks, is a risky realm to tread. One wrong move and the digital court of public opinion can turn against you. Thus, the stake is much higher for influencers, as their influence can become a liability for their own brands. With the loss of trust and brand loyalty comes a great dip in sales.
A case in point: beauty influencer James Charles and his brand “Painted” are being “canceled” following alleged sexual misconduct (resulting in his partnership with Morphe ending in 2021) and allegations of his brand’s products violating FDA regulations. When he launched “Painted” in 2023, netizens were split in
their views of the brand, and some stated that they wouldn’t back it because of his grooming accusations.
That said, the opportunity to monetize their personal brand and directly engage with their audience still presents a lucrative proposition for influencers. The direct-toconsumer model facilitated by social platforms offers influencers a unique advantage to market and sell their products, bypassing traditional retail barriers and fostering a direct connection with their followers.
Market research supports the potential success of influencer-founded brands, particularly among younger consumers. Almost one-third of U.S. adults have already purchased products from influencer brands, with those numbers jumping to 53% for Gen Z adults and 47% for millennials. Many (80%) were pleased with their purchases and willing to buy from them again, and nearly half reported a shopping experience surpassing that of traditional brands. This trend underscores the emerging opportunity for influencers to leverage their followings into successful brand ventures.
Are influencer brands going to make it big?
With their finger on the pulse of consumer behavior, influencer brands appear to have quite a promising future. The explosive growth of influencer marketing provides a fertile ground for the expansion of influencer-made brands, especially among Gen Z consumers who heavily rely on influencer recommendations for purchase decisions.
As influencers venture into the world of brand ownership, the question isn’t if they’ll succeed, but how far they’ll go. The digital marketplace is vast, and for influencers with ambition, the sky’s the limit. Sayantika Chatterjee is a staff writer at Jumpstart.
Our planet’s makeover starts with less plastic.
By ANNYESHA GANGULY
In recent years, the global conversation surrounding sustainability has deepened, driving industries around the world to reevaluate their plastic use. From pioneering new materials to embracing circular economy principles, various sustainable strategies have been implemented globally. These efforts reflect a united mission to lessen the environmental load of plastic. Let’s explore some of the key trends that are shaping the future of plastic sustainability—the process of making plastic sustainable—on an international scale.
The bioplastics revolution
Bioplastics, made from renewable biomass sources such as cornstarch or sugarcane, are rapidly becoming a popular alternative to traditional plastics. Countries like Brazil, China and the U.S. are leading the charge in bioplastic production. Take China, for example—its bioplastics market soared to a whopping US$500 million in 2021, with a production volume reaching 162 thousand tons. These bioplastics, known for being 100% degradable and versatile, are being used in diverse sectors, like agriculture, textile, medicine and packaging. They’re gaining traction in cities across Europe and the U.S. for their minimal environmental impact. Unlike the usual fossil-based plastics, bioplastics typically leave a smaller carbon footprint and can be seamlessly integrated into existing recycling systems.
Thecircular economy model, which focuses on reusing, recycling or repurposing materials to minimize waste, is gaining momentum globally. Nations like the Netherlands and Sweden have embraced ambitious strategies to foster closed-loop systems and innovative recycling technologies, thus enhancing resource efficiency and reducing plastic waste.
In the Netherlands, the “Holland Circular Hotspot” initiative has set ambitious targets: cut raw material use in half by 2030 and transition to a fully circular economy by 2050. This government-led effort brings together businesses, civil society and research institutes to innovate material usage toward a sustainable, zerowaste future. Impressively, the Netherlands already recycles 79% of its waste, with the remainder primarily used for energy production, aiding its transition to renewable
Marineplastic pollution poses a severe threat to ocean ecosystems, pushing countries around the world to ramp up cleanup operations along coastlines and waterways. Coastal nations like Australia, Indonesia and Thailand have implemented a range of initiatives—from beach cleanups to advanced filtration technologies— aimed at protecting marine biodiversity.
Furthermore, international NGOs are also making significant strides. One notable example is The Ocean Cleanup, a nonprofit organization dedicated to clearing 90% of floating ocean plastic by 2040. In 2021 and 2022, its ocean cleaning system successfully collected a substantial amount of plastic from the Great Pacific Garbage Patch (GPGP), estimated to contain around 100 million kilograms of plastic.
Single-use plastics have become a global environmental problem. Every year,
billions of these items, such as shopping bags, straws and food packaging, are used once and then discarded, ending up in landfills and oceans where they linger for centuries.
In response, more countries are implementing bans or restrictions on single-use plastics. Countries like Canada, France and India are passing laws to curb the consumption of disposable plastics and promote the adoption of reusable alternatives, driving a shift toward more sustainable consumption patterns.
The world of plastic recycling is undergoing a radical transformation thanks to technological advancements. Countries such as Germany and Japan are investing in state-of-the-art recycling facilities that redefine how we handle plastic waste.
Innovative recycling processes like chemical recycling can break plastic down into its molecular components. These can then be reassembled into brand-new plastics, offering a lifeline to materials that would otherwise end up in landfills or incinerators. Meanwhile, pyrolysis, another groundbreaking technique, transforms waste plastic into fuel or other valuable petroleum-based products, turning what was once mere waste into a resource.
Tackling the multifaceted issue of plastic pollution isn’t a one-person job—it’s a team effort, requiring strong collaborations across various sectors. Gov-
ernments, businesses, NGOs and local communities all play pivotal roles in this battle.
Initiatives such as “The New Plastics Economy Global Commitment”— launched by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation and the UN Environment Programme in 2018—and the Plastic Pollution Coalition are redesigning the future of plastics. They bring together leaders from across industries and sectors to foster a shared commitment to a circular economy. These partnerships are paving the way for a future where plastics never become waste or pollution.
As consumers, reflecting more on our daily consumption habits can lead to real change. This starts with raising aware-
ness—something that’s becoming increasingly central in our discussions about sustainability.
Many educational campaigns and initiatives are already lighting up these conversations, motivating us to make choices that are kinder to the planet. For example, eco-labeling schemes help by marking products that meet high environmental standards, guiding us toward options that are not only recyclable but also sustainably produced from start to finish. These efforts empower consumers to make informed decisions, ultimately fostering a culture of responsible consumption and environmental stewardship.
Theglobal push toward sustainable plastic solutions is picking up speed globally, driven by an increased awareness of the detrimental environmental impacts of plastics and a collective urgency for action.
For business owners, there’s a clear path forward: adopting eco-friendly packaging, championing recycling initiatives in the workplace and choosing biodegradable materials can dramatically reduce your company’s plastic footprint.
On a personal level, every one of us can make a difference. Choosing reusable products over disposables, supporting sustainable brands and participating in recycling programs are simple yet effective ways to contribute. Together, step by step, we’re not just envisioning a greener, more sustainable world—we’re actively creating it.
Annyesha Ganguly is the Project Coordinator of Jumpstart.
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These startups reaped the benefits of an expanded network and business opportunities. Could yours be next?
By ALINDA GUPTA
There is no single element that makes a startup successful. Any startup is a product of its founders’ vision, commitment, the right networks, marketing, funding and support. Conventions, exhibitions, accelerators and even shows like Shark Tank play an important role in giving startups a much-needed leg up. After all, it is a competitive space.
About 50 million startups are launched every year. Sadly, they see a high fail rate, with 20% failing in the first year and about half closing shop five years in. Sometimes, these startups run out of money, other times, they run out of marketing ideas and strategies. There are multifold reasons why startups fail. That’s where programs like Start-up Express come into the picture.
Start-up Express, launched by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), is a meticulously curated programme. Since 2018, it has aimed to nurture Hong Kong start-ups with innovative technological products or solutions and a strong aspiration to venture into international markets. This initiative is geared towards helping local start-ups develop their capabilities, expand their networks, explore new markets, seek business, funding partnerships and bolster their brand presence. Offering a myriad of unique opportunities for learning, growth and networking, Start-up Express selects ten winners from each cohort. The winners will benefit from extensive marketing initiatives and garner attention from investors, media outlets and potential collaborators.
In 2022, the programme launched its international counterpart, Start-up
Express International, during Entrepreneur Day, HKTDC’s anchor start-up event. This international series is specifically designed to engage start-ups from diverse global ecosystems, facilitating the establishment and nurturing of business connections with potential partners in Hong Kong and expanding their business via the Hong Kong platform.
Entering its second year, Start-up Express International is focusing on startups specializing in innovative technologies across various domains, including FinTech, Health Tech, Web3.0 & Metaverse, Smart City and Green Tech.
To enter the programme, startups must have been nominated by the programme’s Global Partner, established for five years or less, with a funding stage of Series A or earlier, and demonstrate a focus on the above-mentioned domains.
Let’s take a closer look at the ten winners of the latest edition of Start-up Express International and their groundbreaking contributions:
While turning on the air conditioner on a hot day might feel like a treat for your body, it is not one for the environment. Air conditioners consume a lot of energy while releasing a plethora of harmful gases into the environment. That’s where Ambiator comes in. Established in 2022, Ambiator is a climate technology firm focused on manufacturing affordable cooling solutions. Leveraging its core technology, Dew Point Regenerative Technology, the startup’s solution is tailored for the Global South.
Founded in 2020, Flectothink specializes in brain-computer interface (BCI) technology, with applications in consumer electronics and medical fields, particularly in sleep monitoring and human-machine interaction. BCI technology enables individuals to control external devices using brain signals. It has the potential to aid people with disabilities and enhance human-computer interactions.
Every year, billions of garments are left unsold and many find their way to the landfills. This is a concerning statistic that has haunted us for years, prompting startups to take charge. Launched in 2021, Hangles is a recommerce, or reverse commerce, enabler committed to driving sustainability in fashion. Its e-commerce platform, equipped with an AI search engine and seamless logistics, supports the reuse, reduction and recycling of fashion items.
E stablished in 2018, Moreloop combines environmental sustainability with digital technology. It has created a platform that connects surplus fabrics from garment factories with SMEs, promoting upcycling and circular economy practices.
Upcycling is important for several reasons. It reduces consumption and minimizes the strain on resources such as fuel, forests and water supplies and thereby leaves a smaller environmental footprint.
Sino specializes in portable MRI solutions, founded by a team from the Institute of Electrical Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences. Portable MRI devices have been shown to
provide life-saving information for conditions such as traumatic brain injuries, strokes and intracranial hemorrhages, particularly in resource-limited settings where access to traditional MRI technologies is limited.
Founded in 2022, the NL37 focuses on the research and development (R&D) of intelligent chassis technologies, aiming to reduce R&D costs and production timing for automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) through its innovative chassis platforms. Intelligent chassis technologies refer to advanced systems that enhance the performance, safety and comfort of vehicles. The global intelligent chassis market is experiencing significant growth, with a focus on meeting the requirements of high-level autonomous driving. These technologies play a crucial role in enabling vehicles to adapt to different driving conditions, improve stability and support the vision of accident-free driving.
Established in 2022, TEGmat is a thermal electricity generation company revolutionizing thermoelectric generator (TEG) modules by producing novel, flexible solutions that are economically viable and free from rare-earth materials.
The UNEP Food Waste Index Report 2021 estimates that 8-10% of global greenhouse gas emissions are associated with unconsumed food, emphasizing the need to reduce food waste at retail, food service and household levels.
This can significantly contribute to the efficient and sustainable generation of electricity from waste heat, with potential applications in various industries including power plants, factories, space missions and IoT devices.
Launched in 2019, Uvera focuses on reducing food waste with its Artificial Intelligence of Things (AIoT) solution, combining UV-C light and vacuum sealing. It extends the shelflife of fresh produce, meat and baked goods by 97% on average within 30 seconds without the use of chemicals.
Founded in 2023, Voltaic offers solar and heat pump solutions with a comprehensive warranty and a smart IoT platform for real-time data analytics, promoting energy independence. Energy independence refers to a country’s ability to rely solely on domestically produced energy.
The pursuit of energy independence is influenced by various factors,
including geopolitical considerations, environmental concerns and economic interests. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change and sustainable development, the quest for energy independence is likely to remain a key priority for many nations. That’s where companies like Voltaic are positioned to succeed.
Founded in 2018, Ucloudy is a technology-based enterprise specializing in AI industrial machine vision equipment, offering integrated services for intelligent manufacturing, including 5G private network construction and data platforms. Essentially, It develops smart machines for factories and helps them set up superfast private internet and data systems. Cloud computing and AI-driven machine vision equipment can significantly improve efficiency, productivity and cost-effectiveness in manufacturing processes. Additionally, the provision of 5G private network construction and data platforms can contribute to the seamless integration of advanced technologies, ultimately fostering innovation and competitiveness within the industrial sector.
As Start-up Express International prepares for its third edition, entrepreneurs worldwide are invited to participate in Entrepreneur Day 2024 (December 5-6), where opportunities for networking, learning and growth abound. Applications will open in Q3, offering aspiring startups the chance to showcase their innovations on the global stage and connect with potential partners and investors. Stay tuned to the Start-up Express International website for the latest news.
Alinda Gupta is an editor at Jumpstart.
Unlocking the potential of passwordless authentication for a safer, more convenient digital world.
By NIDHI SINGH
In a world where digital connectivity permeates every aspect of our lives, traditional password-based authentication has become a vulnerable and tedious obstacle. Despite predictions like Bill Gates’ in 2004 about the end of passwords, they remain prevalent, guarding our digital identities. This reliance is concerning, especially considering that password-related security issues are responsible for 80% of data breaches worldwide, as per Verizon’s Data Breach Investigations Report (DBIR) 2022. Alarmingly, a Bitwarden survey found that 84% of respondents reuse passwords on at least one site, and 52% rely on common, easily decipherable phrases.
The rise of passwordless authentication marks a significant shift towards enhancing digital identity protection. By leveraging inherence factors like physical or behavioral biometrics (e.g. fingerprints or keystroke patterns), this approach aims to reduce cybersecurity risks associated with password usage. We spoke with Bitwarden CEO, Michael Crandell, to gain insights into this transformative technology. Crandell, a key figure at password management service Bitwarden, is instrumental in steering the company’s strategy and growth.
Bitwarden is committed to helping
businesses strengthen their password management systems. Beyond the product, the company provides a range of resources, such as training materials, onboarding guides, a knowledge base, white papers and an active community forum. These tools, coupled with Bitwarden’s educational online events, empower companies to develop effective strategies for minimizing breach risks and ensuring secure credential sharing within their organizations.
In2022, tech giants like Google, Microsoft and Apple announced their support for a unified passwordless sign-in standard. They have joined forces with the Fast IDentity Online (FIDO) Alliance and the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). This initiative aims to establish a universal passwordless sign-in standard to enhance digital security and promote the widespread adoption of this innovative authentication method.
The FIDO Alliance, a non-profit organization, focuses on developing passwordless technologies, enabling users to use multiple forms of authentication ranging from biometrics and Trusted Platform
Modules (TPM) to USB security tokens and smart cards.
As a leader in open-source password management, Bitwarden has embraced passwordless authentication. In December 2022, Bitwarden rolled out a new feature to streamline user access to Bitwarden vaults. This new feature employs a pair of cryptographic keys—a public key and a private key. The public key is securely stored on the website, while the private key, encrypted for security, is kept on the user’s device.
When logging in using a passkey, the process is straightforward. Users are prompted for device-based authentication—like a fingerprint or a PIN—which unlocks the private key. This key then interacts with the vault to confirm the user’s identity without sharing sensitive data. This method streamlines access and significantly enhances security.
“With passkeys, you can quickly create and sign in to accounts securely—no password required—with a much stronger credential that is unique to every website or app you are using,” explains Crandell.
“Passkeys are easier to use and also protect against phishing attacks because users can’t be tricked into giving their password or 2FA codes away to an attacker.”
This innovative approach not only bolsters security but also enhances user convenience. By simply approving a notification on their Bitwarden app, users gain immediate access to their web vaults, bypassing the traditional password entry. Bitwarden’s active role in the FIDO Alliance underscores its dedication to developing secure, scalable and open-source solutions for a safer online world.
The password security sector’s future is poised for transformative change, driven by technological advancements, evolving user needs and emerging threats. Crandell foresees a paradigm shift towards passwordless authentication, with biometric methods and enhanced authentication standards becoming more prevalent.
Crandell anticipates significant progress in authentication standards, focusing on interoperability, robust security and
privacy protection. He elaborates, “Organizations will adopt standardized frameworks that facilitate secure authentication across various platforms and devices. In simple terms, this will make it both easier and more secure for you and me to verify who we are and log in at both work and home.”
Additionally, Crandell underscores the importance of user experience in the future of password security and management. “Solutions will aim to strike a balance between stringent security measures and streamlined usability, ensuring that strong security practices do not hinder productivity or user adoption,” he asserts.
As technology plays a pivotal role in our personal and professional lives, organizations bear the critical task of protecting users’ account security.
“Many employees still use easily guessable passwords, exposing organizations to significant security risks,” Crandell asserts. Thus, he advocates for a holistic security approach that combines advanced technol-
“Solutions will aim to strike a balance between stringent security measures and streamlined usability, ensuring that strong security practices do not hinder productivity or user adoption.”
ogy with user education. Key elements of this strategy include:
• Robust security measures: Investing in comprehensive security systems with strong encryption and multifactor authentication is crucial. Keeping these systems updated is vital to address evolving digital threats.
• User education: Informing users about the importance of strong, unique passwords and the risks of password reuse is critical. Promoting additional security measures like multifactor authentication further enhances account security.
• Dynamic protocol updates: Adapting to cybersecurity trends and routinely updating security protocols is essential. Regular security audits and penetration testing are key to identifying and fixing system vulnerabilities.
• Security-conscious culture: Building a culture that emphasizes security awareness, continuous training and clear policies strengthens overall safety.
• Encourage collaboration and innovation: Staying connected with industry experts and being informed about the latest security technologies, such as Bitwarden’s Passwordless.dev toolkit, is vital for advancing digital security.
Inconclusion, Crandell reminds us, “Security is a shared responsibility.” It’s essential to educate users about strong, unique passwords, the dangers of password reuse and the benefits of multifactor authentication. Vigilance against phishing and proactive reporting of suspicious activities are crucial. As we unite to create a secure digital environment, we empower everyone to reap technology’s benefits without undue concern over risks.
Nidhi Singh is a staff writer at Jumpstart.
Tracking inventory the smart way—Carlton Cheng, Founder of Flybox, a smart lockers company, discusses secure storage solutions for the real world.
BY ALINDA GUPTA
In today’s rapidly advancing digital age, technology with a lifespan of 30 years can become obsolete within five years, the Founder of smart technology company Flybox, Carlton Cheng, divulges.
His statement points to the roster of obsolete items that are now a distant memory—from erstwhile hipster-favorite MP3 players to the once widely-used Internet Explorer. Floppy disks are now cloud storage; hailable taxis are now ride-sharing apps, and photo albums are Instagram pages.
While the pace of development might vex some, with every semblance of nostalgia slipping away at lightning speed, there’s no denying that many of these new technologies have simplified our lives. Think
Google Maps or Spotify. Today, you don’t need multiple devices and equipment to get around; your phone is enough.
In a conversation, Cheng shares with us the story of Flybox, emphasizing the importance of customizability and the creation of contemporary solutions for modern problems.
Flybox was conceived to make e-commerce easier—yes, e-commerce. The company offers smart lockers for logistical companies that come equipped with passcodes, phone or laptop chargers and more, making deliveries smoother and safer. While you may enjoy the luxuries of online shopping—getting stuff delivered home, easy refunds, discounts—many have found it less than flawless. For exam-
“To us, ‘smart’ is all about integrating technology into daily life and working to improve people’s quality of life, efficiency, convenience and safety."
ple, customers may have to reschedule deliveries after placing an order due to inconvenient timings (the best-laid plans). That’s where Flybox comes in.
Cheng expounds, “With the trend of online shopping booming and the frequency increasing, it has led to some issues [for] both the consumers and the logistics industry. Seeing this as an opportunity, we launched a ‘Last Mile Delivery’ solution with smart lockers. This is how we started our business.”
The way Flybox’s smart locker solution works is simple: it allows customers to retrieve their orders without the inconvenience of coordinating pickup times with couriers or enduring long queues at collection points. This streamlined process can significantly enhance the customer experience, fostering greater loyalty.
Further, Flybox’s smart lockers are equipped with theft-deterrent measures and camera surveillance, providing added security for businesses dealing with highvalue items. They can also seamlessly integrate with existing infrastructure like inventory management software and point-of-sale systems, optimizing efficiency. For businesses, adopting Flybox’s smart lockers translates to a tangible benefit: a reduction in labor and shipping expenses by eliminating manual package handling.
He adds, “Through continuous development and improvement, smart lockers are no longer limited to the logistics industry. We have extended our solution to
various industries, such as healthcare, construction, hospitality, retail and more. We believe that there is still significant room for future development.”
Youknow how these days everything is “smart”? Sometimes, you have got to squint to see the “smart” in some products. But when it comes to Flybox and their smart lockers, they are dead serious about what the word means. “To us, ‘smart’ is all about integrating technology into daily life and working to improve people’s quality of life, efficiency, convenience and safety. We adhere to this philosophy and are committed to developing various solutions to achieve the above goals,” Cheng asserts.
A goal for Flybox is to offer convenience, and that means tailoring tech to fit your groove. “Technology is no longer an object of fascination. It is intertwined with everyday life, making customization an integral consideration,” says Cheng. In today’s technologically-forward society, the quality of products used is laudable, so he feels that living in such a high-tech environment has amped up our expectations of new products.
But being high-tech is not everything. Overloading tech jargon and features can make the product a head-scratcher for consumers. Flybox considered this conundrum. Cheng notes, “Customizing our product and meeting expectations are the
ways [we use] to stand out in the market. Customization can help users solve the problems they encounter to the greatest extent. Furthermore, a customized product can improve users’ experience and make them more productive. And this is the result we would like to see and achieve.”
Rest assured, Flybox’s aspirations for itself are not simply theoretical. Cheng illustrates, “Recently, we developed an inventory management system for a power plant using Flybox’s Internet-ofThings (IoT) capabilities. Our goal was to improve [its] traditional human management solution by utilizing advanced technology. We utilized a web administrative management portal as a communication bridge between administrators and ‘smart lockers’.” Given that valuable items are stored in its lockers, the system prioritizes information accuracy, solution, security, speed of action and response. This way, the power plant company could keep track of its inventory activities.
If a registered personnel requests to take some items from the locker, the system issues e-permission files for access. The person must fill in an online request form, including details such as their job description, item’s expiry day, job’s start and end date and location. The system also shows the inventory status of every item to authorized administrative staff.
Regarding security measures, Cheng says, “The system also alerts when sensors detect the locker door in an open status. The management system will log every normal and abnormal action anyone takes and send notifications to the staff.”
Flybox has enhanced the power plant’s safety and operational efficiency by developing the web administrative management portal using its IoT capabilities. It aspires to do the same for other industries.
Whilethe web portal is just one display of its smarts, Flybox has much more tucked away in its metaphorical locker. Cheng concludes, “We are currently developing various IoT products and solutions, including smart door locks, intelligent medication distribution systems and equipment management and tracking systems. We will participate in different exhibitions to promote Flybox Locker.”
The e-commerce boom has left entrepreneurs revisiting their safety solutions. For online businesses that rely on inventory, having smart lockers makes it easier to track items and ensure secure storage. Flybox is at the forefront of the e-commerce revolution, reinventing how we store, manage and distribute goods in an increasingly digital era.
Alinda Gupta is an editor at Jumpstart.
From supporting SMEs to enhancing security, eftPay’s journey through the pandemic highlights resilience and adaptability.
By SAYANTIKA CHATTERJEE
In the heart of Asia, Hong Kong pulsates with energy, driven not just by its native residents but by one of the world’s largest expatriate populations. Every year, this cosmopolitan hub hosts tens of millions of travelers, each with unique financial needs. To cater to this diverse and dynamic populace, Hong Kong is perpetually evolving, investing in the latest tech infrastructure, ranging from mobile payment applications to contactless payment systems, to ensure every transaction is smooth and efficient.
It’s within this dynamic backdrop that we sat down with Andrew Lo, CEO and
“[eftPay] targets to create more business scenarios for the application of cashless payments that help HK transform into a smart city.”
Chairman of eft Payments (Asia) Limited. Our conversation dove deep into the transformative impact of eftPay’s digital payment solutions on Hong Kong’s financial scene and how the company has success-
fully navigated the challenges presented by the pandemic.
Since its launch in 2013, eftPay has carved out its place as a frontrunner in electronic payment services in Hong Kong. “‘e+Pay’ is one of the payment platforms in Hong Kong with the most connected payment methods,” Lo reveals. The platform supports numerous foreign currencies, including the Japanese yen, Korean won and Singapore dollars, and notable features like the U.S.-based “Discover” credit card, Taiwan’s “JKOPay” and Korea’s “GLN”. By diversifying its supported currencies, eftPay ensures a holistic and user-friendly payment ecosystem.
Lo attributes their success to constant innovation. He expounds that eftPay’s strong corporate network and collaboration with reputable brand merchants have empowered it to offer sought-after market solutions. Starting with just QR code payment, they’ve since expanded to provide 17 distinct domestic and international electronic payment services, ranging from contactless cards, Visa and Mastercard to Octopus.
With a vast network of over 22,600 locations, eftPay is more than just a payment gateway. It serves as a comprehensive solution provider, offering services like settlement platforms, technical support, payment gateway services, transaction documentation and merchant acquisition integrated with a sales system.
itself, eftPay offers a unique all-in-one POS terminal, integrating multiple electronic payment options. This innovation eliminates the need for additional hardware and adapts to the evolving retail environment in Hong Kong. Moreover, the company offers a 24/7 customer care line and a backend system for sales tracking to enhance clients’ business operations.
Security is paramount, especially in international transactions. eftPay prides itself on delivering top-notch security, adhering to the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). This certification ensures peace of mind for customers and businesses alike of eftPay’s commitment to stringent security protocols.
through the pandemic years
During the pandemic, Hong Kong businesses faced unprecedented challenges, notably a significant reduction in consumer activity. However, eftPay saw this as an opportunity to refine and broaden its offerings for small and medium-sized merchants (SMEs). In 2021, it launched “WEGO”, a mini-program tailored to assist merchants in developing their online retail platforms. This initiative simplifies e-wallet integration and includes features such as vouchers, product sales and discount coupons, all designed to ease SMEs’ digital transformation, boost their online visibility and encourage growth within the expansive Greater Bay Area.
Additionally, eftPay introduced the “e+Coupon” platform, blending a membership system with e-coupon capabilities to streamline coupon management for merchants. This innovative tool not only heightens customer engagement but also supports SMEs in executing effective, budget-friendly marketing campaigns.
Through these forward-thinking efforts, eftPay has played a crucial role in bolstering the endurance of SMEs amidst the challenging pandemic landscape.
“‘e+Pay’ is one of the payment platforms in Hong Kong with the most connected payment methods.”
Lookingahead, eftPay is charting a bold future to revolutionize Hong Kong’s digital scene and elevate its global presence. “[eftPay] targets to create more business scenarios for the application of cashless payments that help HK transform into a smart city,” he remarked. This ambition extends to integrating electronic payments into public infrastructure and expanding internationally, syncing with Hong Kong’s digital economic surge. With its digital currency technology
maturing, eftPay is gearing up to introduce new services in line with governmental regulations, streamlining transactions and enhancing in-store management with an upgraded Electronic Receipt Management System (ERM).
Beyond system enhancements, eftPay’s proactive approach includes offering promotional support to merchants through a monthly fee model, helping them attract more customers via electronic coupons. With regular software and hardware updates, eftPay ensures the highest data security standards.
EftPay’s journey reflects its strategic foresight, system enhancements and unwavering support for merchants, marking its dedication to advancing Hong Kong’s digital economic transformation. By fostering collaboration and customer satisfaction, eftPay is set to remain a key player in the financial technology landscape, navigating the rapid digital transition and championing the digital economy. Sayantika Chatterjee is a staff writer at Jumpstart.
WeGene’s comprehensive genetic profiling empowers individuals to optimize their health and lifestyle according to their unique biological blueprint
By STEPHEN CHAN
In today’s medical field, a new trend is emerging—personalization. It’s all about tailoring health and lifestyle recommendations to fit each person’s unique genetic makeup. At the forefront of this revolution is WeGene, a company that harnesses the power of genomics—the detailed study of DNA—to help individ-
uals live their best lives according to their own biological design.
Located in Shenzhen, at the heart of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, WeGene pioneers the use of genomic data to create personalized health blueprints. By decoding the secrets hidden in our DNA, WeGene empowers individ-
uals with the knowledge to optimize their health strategies precisely to their genetic profiles.
WeGene’s holistic approach to genetic insights
At the core of WeGene’s innovative offering is its comprehensive genetic report. The genomics company uses advanced sequencing equipment from the Beijing Genomics Institution (BGI Group), one of the world’s leading genome research organizations. Using BGI’s DNBSEQ technology, WeGene’s sequencers can analyze multiple samples simultaneously and at high speed, making large-scale testing both efficient and cost-effective. This capability allows WeGene to delve into three billion data points that make up a person’s full genome. From this extensive analysis, users receive hundreds of individualized reports with the promise of lifetime updates as WeGene continues to advance its offerings.
These reports offer insight into a myriad of personal aspects: from physical traits and skin condition to how your body responds to medications and nutrients. They even extend to suggesting the most beneficial exercises for your genetic profile and understanding your psychological and personality traits. This all-encompassing approach provides a detailed roadmap to optimizing your life, with direct, actionable tips on enhancing your skincare routine, eating the right foods for your body and personalizing your exercise regimen to suit your genetic disposition.
WeGene’s technology also specializes in ancestry-specific analysis. This is important because genetic variances can be significantly influenced by ethnic background. Although many companies offer ancestry information, WeGene differs itself by being the first direct-to-consumer company in China to focus on East Asian genetics, providing incredibly personalized and accurate analyses for individuals of East Asian descent.
Thetrue power of WeGene’s comprehensive genetic analyses lies in its ability to facilitate a tailored approach to health and well-being. For example, the WeGene reports might reveal a mutation in the MTHFR gene, which affects how folate is metabolized. This mutation reduces the enzyme’s ability to convert
dietary folate into its active form, leading to elevated homocysteine levels, a risk factor linked to vascular diseases including stroke. In connection with its findings, the analysis may also note other genetic markers that indicate a higher risk of developing stroke.
WeGene’s reports provide specific guidance in such cases. Instead of general folate supplementation, which may not be effective due to the MTHFR mutation, based on the individual’s genetic profile, WeGene may recommend supplementing directly with L-methylfolate—the active form of folate. This approach helps bypass the metabolic
“From the outset, our mission was clear: to empower East Asians, particularly the Chinese community, to harness the power of their genomic data for personalized health interventions, precision medicine and beyond."
deficiency, effectively lowering homocysteine levels and reducing vascular risk. While this will not completely eliminate the risk of strokes, it empowers individuals to take a proactive stance on their health with specific, personalized and actionable recommendations allowing for early interventions.
Beyond genetic predispositions, WeGene’s report takes predictive power even further by forecasting future risks of diseases. For instance, WeGene takes into account personal details such as gender, age, blood pressure and lifestyle to provide a prediction of a person’s ten-year real risk of stroke.
By empowering clients with such detailed and personalized health insights, WeGene plays a crucial role in enabling
individuals to make informed decisions about their health, guiding them toward a healthier future, optimized through the lens of their unique genetic blueprint.
A pioneer in personalized healthcare
Ina world increasingly focused on customization for optimal living, WeGene is breaking new ground in personalized healthcare. By diving into the genetic makeup of individuals, WeGene offers everyone a chance to align their lifestyle with their unique biological needs. This empowers people to pursue health and wellness that’s specifically suited to them.
Reflecting on the company’s founding principles and its commitment to this innovative field, Dr. Gang Chen, founder and CEO of WeGene, articulates their core mission, “From the outset, our mission was clear: to empower East Asians, particularly the Chinese community, to harness the power of their genomic data for personalized health interventions, precision medicine and beyond. Today, we are on that path, striving to reach more individuals and enable them to decode their own life’s blueprint.”
By leveraging its technology and extensive data, WeGene helps clients fine-tune everything—from nutrition and exercise routines to preventative care—laying the groundwork for a life not just lived, but well-lived.
Stephen Chan is a director of an investment company and has entrepreneur experience in consumer, fintech and healthcare sectors.
Meet the virtual assistant making supplier selection easier for small businesses and eCommerce websites.
By MINESH PORE, Chief AI Visionary at SourcingGPT.ai
The artificial intelligence (AI) market is expected to be valued at over US$180 billion in 2024. This growth is not only limited to tech giants like Microsoft and Google but also encompasses smaller businesses and startups.
As digital transformation accelerates at breakneck speed, AI is no longer a futuristic concept but a present-day reality that has the potential to revolutionize industries. As the CEO of SourcingGPT.ai, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative impact AI can have on small- to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and eCommerce buyers.
With that in mind, let’s explore what SourcingGPT.ai offers and the role of AI in transforming businesses’ futures.
The story of SourcingGPT
The idea behind SourcingGPT stemmed from a fundamental need to streamline and optimize the sourcing process for SMBs and e-commerce businesses. Traditionally, these buyers face numerous
hurdles, from identifying reliable suppliers to negotiating prices and ensuring timely deliveries. These challenges often translate into significant time and resource investments, which can be particularly taxing for smaller businesses with limited bandwidth.
Our mission with SourcingGPT was to create a tool to alleviate these pain points by leveraging AI to provide actionable insights, enhance decision-making and ultimately drive efficiency. SourcingGPT acts as a virtual assistant. It can conduct comprehensive market analysis across various supplier platforms, vetting and comparing the suppliers found, calculating landed costs (the total price of a product once it reaches the buyer) and forecasting demand trends.
save time, energy and money
SourcingGPT’s benefits are multifold.
First, the tool helps users save time. By automating the mundane and repetitive tasks associated with sourcing, businesses can focus on more strategic activities. For instance, instead of spending hours sifting through supplier data, business owners can
access curated lists of verified suppliers, complete with performance metrics and customer reviews, using SourcingGPT. This not only speeds up the decision-making process but also reduces the risk of partnering with unreliable vendors.
Secondly, SourcingGPT’s predictive analytics capabilities empower buyers to make more informed decisions. The platform predicts future demand and price fluctuations by analyzing historical data and market trends, enabling businesses to plan their procurement strategies more effectively. This predictive power can lead to substantial cost savings and improved inventory management—critical factors for maintaining a competitive edge in the fast-paced e-commerce landscape.
As someone deeply passionate about technology and its potential to drive change, I believe we are on the cusp of an AI revolution. Creating SourcingGPT is just one step in a broader journey toward integrating AI into every facet of our business operations.
Looking ahead, it’s clear that AI will be the foundation of all future technological solutions. AI’s versatility, combined with its ability to process vast amounts of data with unprecedented speed and accuracy, makes it an indispensable tool across industries. For SMBs and e-commerce, in particular, AI offers a path to level the playing field with larger competitors by providing access to sophisticated tools and insights that were previously out of reach.
However, the true potential of AI can only be realized if we actively seek ways to integrate it into our operations. This involves not just adopting AI tools but also fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. At SourcingGPT.ai, we feel that collaboration and knowledge sharing are crucial to maximizing the benefits of AI. By working together, we can identify new opportunities to leverage AI and create solutions that drive growth and efficiency.
AI is not just a buzzword but a powerful tool that can transform the way we do business. By adopting AI-driven solutions like SourcingGPT, SMBs and e-commerce buyers can unlock new levels of efficiency, gain valuable insights and ultimately, thrive in an increasingly competitive market.
The future is here, and it is powered by AI. Minesh Pore is the Chief AI Visionary at SourcingGPT.ai.
Where independence is the real investment.
By VEEKSHA DECHAMMA
As a teacher, mother, mentor and entrepreneur, Kening Hua deeply understands the profound impact of financial independence. As the founder of Voices Education, Hua shares her journey and insights on creating autonomy through financial stability, which she believes is fundamental to personal growth and freedom.
Hua’s path to independence
From an early age, Hua knew that she couldn’t rely on her family for finan-
cial support forever. Her quest for financial independence began at age 16, when she took a job at KFC, earning US$7.25 an hour. “I simply didn’t like being beholden to other people. I didn’t like asking for things,” she recalls. Her pursuit of independence was fueled not by the desire for luxuries but by a longing for autonomy—the freedom to make and own her own choices.
Founding Voices Education: A legacy continues
Driven by her early experiences of financial independence, in 2019,
“Everyone knows what they’re good at, but it’s essential to figure out what you’re really bad at.”
Hua founded Voices Education, an education consultancy dedicated to transforming young people’s lives through personalized guidance. Breaking away from traditional ranking systems, which primarily judge students solely based on standardized test scores and academic performance, Voices Education celebrates each student’s individual interests and strengths, helping them discover their passions and career aspirations early on.
Her commitment to reshaping education is a tribute to her late grandfather, Hua Zhongyi, a former dean of Fudan University. His legacy inspires her mission to empower the youth through education.
Beyondher consultancy, Hua’s entrepreneurial spirit thrives through investments in projects like an air-purifying stroller hood designed by a young engineering student. Originally built for joggers, this innovation was adapted for baby strollers in China, demonstrating how small investments can lead to impactful projects that empower the next generation.
Her diverse roles, including her time as the Executive Director of International Fundraising at the Adream Charitable Foundation in Shanghai, gave her a broad view of how education and financial support can intersect to create significant societal change. Currently, as a member of Female Entrepreneur Worldwide (FEW), her engagement has deepened her understanding of the challenges and opportuni-
ties women face in business and personal finance. All of her experiences have fueled her drive to support economic empowerment among women.
The importance of financial independence for women
Fromher diverse experiences, Hua consistently highlights the critical importance of financial stability. She advises her students and peers to secure their financial base before pursuing passions or making significant life decisions. “The cost of food and rent doesn’t change based on gender,” she notes, highlighting that financial responsibilities are universal.
However, Hua is also quick to note that women often face additional hurdles, such as limited educational opportunities, wage disparities, underrepresentation in leadership roles and cultural restrictions. Overcoming these barriers is crucial to establishing a level playing field where women can truly flourish.
For women, financial independence is especially transformative. It’s a bedrock for growth, fulfillment and the ability to independently care for oneself and others. This foundation empowers women to lead lives that are not only self-sustaining but also rich with opportunities for personal and professional development.
Mindset matters in achieving financial independence
Achieving financial stability isn’t just about the numbers; it also requires solid mental and emotional groundwork. As per Hua, building self-awareness, boosting confidence and celebrating your achievements are essential steps.
Hua suggests starting with a clear understanding of your strengths and weaknesses to foster a mindset that supports financial independence. “Everyone knows what they’re good at, but it’s essential to figure out what you’re really bad at,” she notes. For example, while Hua is good at teaching, she acknowledges her struggles with marketing and company structuring. This recognition led her to seek partners who excel in these areas, complementing her skills and shoring up her weaknesses.
Another vital lesson Hua shares is the importance of letting go of control. She describes her transformation from a meticulously planned, protected upbringing to facing the unpredictable nature of life following her grandfather’s death. This pivotal event brought her back to China
to support her grandmother, teaching her that while some events are beyond our control, how we respond to them is entirely up to us.
Lastly, Hua teaches that financial growth hinges on consistency, resilience and learning from mistakes. Setbacks are inevitable, she notes, but the key to progress is maintaining steady habits and embracing your imperfections.
Building on her insights about cultivating a resilient mindset, Hua extends her philosophy to the broader impact she aims to achieve in her community. As a testament to how financially independent women can uplift others, Hua actively creates environments that foster support and growth.
She emphasizes the importance of a judgment-free zone, where women feel free to make their own choices—whether to pursue motherhood, focus on careers or even become devoted dog moms. This approach allows women the freedom to define their success without the pressure to fit into the traditional roles of a “super mom” or a “super boss,” or the challenge of balancing both.
Moreover, Hua stresses the significance
of debunking the myth of a ticking biological clock for women. By promoting an understanding that women have the time to explore and define their paths, she fosters a culture of self-acceptance and personal growth. Encouraging women to stay true to themselves creates a safe space for both personal and professional development.
From her early days striving for self-sufficiency to her impactful work as a mentor and entrepreneur, Hua shows us that financial independence is both attainable and essential. Her commitment to empowering others, especially women, through education and supportive environments underscores the significant role of community in sustaining financial independence.
As Hua continues to inspire and uplift, her efforts remind us that true independence involves enriching the lives of others as well as our own. Let her journey motivate us to pursue our own paths to financial freedom and foster environments that encourage collective growth and resilience. Veeksha Dechamma is a staff writer at Jumpstart.
Hydration just got a high-tech upgrade with HydroX.
By NASIR AHMED
Water is the essence of life. It is a vital nutrient to every cell in our bodies, helping regulate temperature and keeping organs functioning properly. However, not all water meets the same standard. Across the world, millions face health issues—from gastrointestinal illnesses to serious neurological disorders—caused by drinking poor-quality water.
Joanne Zhou, a visionary entrepreneur and dedicated wellness advocate, understands that proper hydration does much more than quench thirst. Driven with this knowledge, Zhou turned to her family’s proprietary active hydrogen
“My goal is to continue growing not just as an entrepreneur but as an individual who can contribute meaningfully to the world through innovative products and services.”
water technology to launch HydroX, a startup that aims to revolutionize the way we drink water. With HydroX’s active hydrogen water, HydroX is on a mission to enhance our overall wellness
and inject vitality into every sip.
Armed with a passion for preventative health, Zhou is making a difference in the lives of many and redefining hydration standards. In this interview, she shares the inspiration behind HydroX and her vision of a world where better hydration contributes to a healthier, happier society.
Bringing HydroX into the spotlight
Zhou started her entrepreneurial journey with ventures like Float Joy and Food Party. Float Joy manufactured aesthetic pool floats and inflatable kiddie pools, while Food Party manufactured
portable gas pizza ovens and hotpot grills for kitchen and outdoor parties. As these companies became smooth sailing, Zhou found herself with more time to pursue new challenges and opportunities.
This pivotal moment led her back to her family-owned water sources. Zhou saw a unique opportunity to merge her entrepreneurial spirit and her passion for a healthy lifestyle by combining the pristine water sourced from the heart of China’s ecological treasure, the Dabie Mountains, with proprietary active hydrogen water technology.
Zhou’s decision to focus on hydrogen water was inspired by a growing body of research highlighting its benefits for various inflammatory conditions, such as gout, arthritis and eczema. She recalls a crucial instance during HydroX’s concept testing phase, “We provided samples to patients suffering from gout. The results were remarkable—these patients not only became repeat customers but also expressed interest in becoming distributors.” This response underscored the potential of hydrogen water to address chronic health issues where traditional treatments often fall short.
HydroX is quenching more than thirst
Unlike some brands that simply infuse hydrogen gas into spring or distilled water, HydroX combines a unique formula and cutting-edge active hydrogen technology with pristine, premium water.
“Our active hydrogen level is 13 umol/L. That means our antioxidant level is constant and versatile to sunlight [and] temperature,” Zhou explains. This stability ensures that the health benefits of the hydrogen water remain intact. In contrast, in most traditional hydrogen waters, the hydrogen gas dissipates seconds after it’s exposed to light and air, reducing its efficacy.
The Dabie Mountain’s pristine environment, teeming with biodiversity, infuses water with a unique mineral profile and natural alkalinity. Zhou emphasizes, “Our water is naturally alkaline and rich in natural electrolytes (minerals) such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, metasilicic acid, zinc and more.” The high magnesium content, in particular, is associated with significant health benefits, including a decreased likelihood of cardiovascular mortality. This unique combination of active hydrogen and high-quality water positions HydroX as a superior product in the market.
“We provided samples to patients suffering from gout. The results were remarkable—these patients not only became repeat customers but also expressed interest in becoming distributors.”
the HydroX marketing strategy
HydroX initially focuses on patients with gout and arthritis, leveraging localized research in collaboration with top universities in Hong Kong. Zhou’s strategy includes working with the arthritis foundation, nutritionists and healthcare practitioners to educate customers about the benefits of hydrogen water for managing gout. She believes this targeted approach will raise awareness and build credibility through scientific validation and partnerships with reputable institutions.
To broaden its reach and target numerous customer segments in the future, HydroX plans to roll out consumer-facing lifestyle products aimed at sports recovery and hangover remedies. This plan will utilize a marketing strategy that blends community engagement, both online and offline.
Zhou envisions HydroX tapping into both the health-conscious market and the general consumer base. She expounds, “We will generate helpful educational content for patients with gout and arthritis on how to manage their symptoms. Once the customers try the water, they will feel alleviated from the symptoms. We are hoping that word of mouth will spread, and people [will start] to realize it’s the active hydrogen that works.”
Theglobal artificial intelligence (AI) market in healthcare, valued at over US$11 billion in 2021, is set to skyrocket to approximately US$188 billion by 2030. Zhou is eager to embrace this opportunity, stating, “[We will] leverage robotics, AI, machine learning and advanced machinery to increase efficiency, reduce labor costs
and boost production capacity.”
Building a strong community of consumers is also critical to HydroX’s digital strategy. Zhou plans to create an offline community while focusing on multichannel marketing to maximize the presence of HydroX.
To build this community, Zhou aims to create dedicated social media groups and online forums where customers can share their experiences and interact with the brand. She adds that the team will encourage user-generated content and feature it on multiple platforms, fostering a sense of belonging among our customers and boosting customer loyalty.
Expanding a business like HydroX into new markets requires carefully navigating various regulatory frameworks for food and beverage products. Zhou acknowledges this challenge, “Understanding the regulatory difference, [studying] the policies and [making] sure we comply with each policy is the first step.”
Another step is partnering with universities and research centers to conduct more studies on the benefits of hydrogen water. The scientifically backed results can facilitate entry into new markets.
HydroX has already achieved significant milestones in its journey, including diversifying its investor base across different markets and establishing a research thesis with universities in Hong Kong. Zhou divulges, “We have ambitious plans to expand our product line, introducing a range of delicious and healthier hydration options to the market.”
Zhou’s experience building HydroX has been “exhilarating and deeply fulfilling”. She likens entrepreneurship to real-life gaming, sharing that each day brings new challenges, victories and occasional setbacks. Most importantly, however, every experience contributes to her personal and professional growth.
When it comes to HydroX, she is driven by her vision to improve people’s lives. “My goal is to continue growing not just as an entrepreneur but as an individual who can contribute meaningfully to the world through innovative products and services,” she concludes. Nasir Ahmed is a Staff Writer at Jumpstart.
America Ferrera’s “Barbie” monologue made one thing clear: women have to do a lot—and quite often, alone. EverCalm is changing that for women experiencing menopause.
By ALINDA GUPTA
To be a woman is to know that numerous physiological and external systemic battles await you. While you are equipped to deal with most of the baloney on your own, sometimes, you need support.
As per a 2022 survey of 2,000 menopausal women in the UK, 75% of working women reported problems with memory or concentration and 69% felt anxious or depressed. Sadness, low self-esteem, poor self-confidence—the laundry list of concerns doesn’t end.
And if that wasn’t enough, the lack of attention and funding dedicated to menopausal women’s healthcare will make your eyes roll. According to a 2024 McKinsey report, menopause has one of the highest unmet needs among female health conditions. Globally, over 450 million women are navigating symptoms from menopause and perimenopause (i.e. the transitional period before menopause).
While conversations about the condition abound in entrepreneurial circles, the funding simply doesn’t match the need. This disparity highlights the importance
“Menopause has traditionally been framed as a natural aging process rather than a health condition requiring support and intervention.
of FemTech startups dedicated to menopause, raising the question: Must women surrender to the inevitability of menopause, or can they make this experience better, easier and way less stressful?
EverCalm believes in the latter option. Developed by hypnotherapist Christine Deschemin under UpNow Health, a Hong Kong-based HealthTech company, the EverCalm Menopause program offers women experiencing menopause muchneeded respite.
EverCalm: Using hypnotherapy to address menopause
Christine Deschemin, the creator behind EverCalm, points out a critical oversight in healthcare, “Menopause has traditionally been framed as a natural aging process rather than a health condition requiring support and intervention. Moreover, the variability of menopause symptoms and their impact on each woman’s life complicates the development of a standardized approach to treatment.” As a result, menopause has been inadequately represented in clinical practice.
Realizing the lack of adequate resources for women undergoing menopause, along with a strong body of evidence on the effectiveness of self-hypnosis for relief, Deschemin developed EverCalm to make women’s lives easier.
As the name suggests, EverCalm aims
to provide a “cooler, calmer” menopause experience. Its app offers evidence-based programs that leverage self-hypnosis to help women naturally manage their menopause symptoms. These programs focus on relieving common issues such as hot flashes and night sweats, and are also designed to improve sleep quality.
Hypnotherapy is a mind-body therapy similar to mindfulness and guided imagery. It involves maintaining focus, entering a relaxed state and following therapeutic suggestions. Research has clinically shown that hypnotherapy can reduce the frequency of hot flashes by up to 80%. This makes it one of the most effective non-hormonal hot flash management tools available, except for hormonal replacement therapy (HRT).
While developing the app, Deschemin was inspired by personal observations of loved ones struggling through menopause with limited support. She reflects, “[It] fueled our dedication to develop an app that not only educates but empowers women to manage their symptoms with confidence and ease. EverCalm Menopause is our response to the need for a holistic, evidence-based resource that addresses the physical, emotional and mental facets of menopause.”
Key features of the app
The all-encompassing EverCalm app comprises tools, personalized resources and support to help women manage menopause symptoms effectively. Here are some of its features:
1. Self-hypnosis sessions: Tailored to address various concerns, such as pain management, anxiety, depression, better sleep, confidence, building better habits and more. Users are encouraged to listen to these sessions for 20-25 minutes at the same time every day for 28 days.
2. Tracking tools: The app’s interface helps women track their progress and manage symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. Based on the data, the app offers tailored recommendations to help users reduce the frequency and severity of menopausal discomforts.
3. Educational content: To be informed is to be empowered. EverCalm’s app has a round-up of educational blogs that detail menopausal symptoms and personal experiences. This knowledge can help women understand their
symptoms better, reduce anxiety and take proactive steps in managing their conditions.
4. Access to community: Recognizing that menopause can feel isolating, EverCalm provides access to expert advice and support groups through its app. This feature emphasizes the importance of community support, allowing users to connect with others who are navigating similar challenges.
“The variability of menopause symptoms and their impact on each woman’s life complicates the development of a standardized approach to treatment.”
Effectively managing menopause extends beyond personal health and into professional life. A 2023 study revealed that 13% of women have encountered various work-related difficulties as a result of menopausal symptoms. They have had to miss work or cut back on hours to address their symptoms. Moreover, they have had to face severe consequences like layoffs or resignations. With a significant portion of the workforce experiencing menopause—for instance, 25% of the working population in the U.S.—it is crucial for employers to foster a supportive environment.
An increasing number of organizations recognize this need, with 15% now offering specific benefits to support women with menopausal symptoms, up from just 4% the previous year. Tools like EverCalm can be an outstanding option for employers aiming to foster a supportive workplace for women experiencing menopause. It helps manage physical symptoms and supports mental and emotional well-being, contributing to a more inclusive and productive environment.
EverCalm empowering change and community support
Deschemin concludes, “We are continuously working to improve and expand EverCalm Menopause to meet the evolving needs of our users. We are working on expanding educational resources
featuring expert insights on navigating menopause. We are also developing programs aimed at employers to foster a menopause-friendly workplace.” Ultimately, EverCalm wants to tell women experiencing menopause that they are not taking that journey alone; they have a well-oiled arsenal of tools and resources and a supportive community that is rooting for them.
About EverCalm
EverCalm is a menopause app designed to help women track and alleviate menopause symptoms naturally. It leverages the benefits of hypnotherapy to relieve hot flashes and night sweats and improve sleep.
In the brawl between office and remote work, flexibility emerges as the clear winner.
By SAMIKSHA JAIN
The remote work debate is hotter than ever. In the U.S., about one-third of employees who can work remotely now do so all the time—a figure five times greater than before the pandemic—as per a Pew Research survey published in March 2023.
Yet, there’s this tug-of-war happening: on one side, you’ve got employees who’ve had a taste of working in their pajamas and are not ready to give it up. On the other, there are employers, scratching their heads, wishing they could see all their employees back in the office, pronto. A 2023 survey from the New York Fed dropped a bombshell: 77% of service firms would pull their workforce back to the office if they had it their way. Many executives cited that the biggest headache for them is to keep tabs on their remote employees.
But employees aren’t just rolling over. The pushback against marching back to the office is loud and clear. Also, forcing people back hasn’t exactly been a golden ticket to better profits for companies. In fact, 99% of companies that tried to pull the plug on remote work didn’t see a boost in job satisfaction.
Why the fuss over remote work?
Let’s take a quick trip down memory lane to when remote work was just a twinkle in our eye. Covid, now a distant memory for some, was a significant catalyst, pushing businesses to adopt remote work amidst lockdowns and social distancing. Of course, it’s not just Covid’s doing. The feasibility of remote work also owes much to technological advancements. “Technological advancements, such as
“100% remote work is only viable for individual contributor roles that don’t involve extensive collaboration with team members.”
communication and collaboration tools, have played a pivotal role in enabling remote work,” Ojaswini Sapatnekar, the Head of People Strategy at Intangles Lab, a digital twin solution provider, shared with us. Game-changing tools like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Notion and many more, coupled with global internet connectivity, have been connecting teams and keeping the workflow smooth.
Forbusinesses, going remote opens up a world of benefits, including access to a global talent pool and saving a bundle on office rentals and equipment costs. Additionally, companies report fewer staff absences and a reduction in turnover.
For employees, the allure of remote work is undeniable. LinkedIn’s research from October 2022 revealed that, although remote job listings had decreased from 20% to 14% earlier in the year, these positions attracted four times as many candidates as in-office jobs.
“The evolving expectations of the
modern workforce, with a focus on versatility and work-life balance, have also fueled the popularity of remote work,” Sapatnekar added.
Remote work allows employees to design their workday around their lives, not the other way around. This flexibility means savings on expenses and more time for family, hobbies and even sleep, contributing to higher employee satisfaction and retention. No wonder, remote employees are reported to be 20% happier than their office-bound counterparts.
Is remote work suitable for all industries?
Notexactly. For example, roles in construction or food and beverage are less likely to be performed remotely. Additionally, certain positions with stringent confidentiality, security or privacy requirements may not be compatible with remote work.
Ankita Sen, People Partner at construction management firm Powerplay, points out, “100% remote work is only
viable for individual contributor roles that don’t involve extensive collaboration with team members.” For tasks needing more coordination, she advocates for a hybrid approach, combining the flexibility of remote work with the benefits of occasional in-person interactions.
What’s next for remote work?
Thefuture’s looking bright, with tech innovations paving the way for even smoother remote collaborations. Sapatnekar notes that technologies like virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) and cloud computing will enhance remote collaboration, while AI and automation will streamline operations. The advent of 5G will ensure faster, more reliable connectivity, facilitating seamless remote work experiences.
Organizations are also investing in remote onboarding and training processes. Virtual onboarding programs and e-learning platforms will integrate new hires into remote work cultures and promote continuous professional development.
Furthermore, as remote work proliferates, cybersecurity will become increasingly vital. Companies will bolster cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data and ensure secure remote connections.
Also, don’t think the traditional office is going the way of the dodo. Instead, it’s getting a makeover—turning into a go-to spot for teamwork and those must-have face-to-face chats. It’s evolving, just like our work habits, blending the best of both worlds. Sapatnekar sums it up perfectly, "offices are evolving to fit this new work paradigm, blending the best of remote work’s flexibility with the irreplaceable value of in-person connection."
a doubt, remote work is redefining our professional lives. With an overwhelming 98% of folks wanting in on remote work and over half considering a job change if remote options were withdrawn, it’s clear this isn’t a passing phase. The freedom and balance remote work brings to the table are too sweet to pass up.
While employers might resist this shift, the path forward is clear: adapt and find opportunities within this new paradigm. Embracing change and innovation is essential for leaders and founders in navigating the future of work.
Samiksha Jain is a staff writer at Jumpstart.
Through Pando Finance Group, Junfei Ren has achieved the dream—she has made crypto a relatively predictable and less risky investment asset.
By NATASHA M.
During a tornado, the safest place is right in the eye. During a tsunami, it’s on higher ground. But what about during a volatile, rollercoaster ride in the crypto market? The safest bet, according to Pando Finance, is to buckle up and hold on strategically. This philosophy is at the core of Pando Finance, an asset-management company that aims to provide investors
access to digital assets with an emphasis on minimizing risk.
A PwC report found that between November 2016 and 2021, the combined market capitalization of digital assets in the US grew at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 193%, surging from about US$14 billion to a staggering US$3 trillion. This burgeoning sector includes cryptocurrencies, non-fungible tokens (NFTs) or even fractions—or tokens—of
metaverse real estate, among other assets. Such exponential growth has sparked debates about the stability and predictability of the market, but Pando Finance proves that it can be a fertile ground for opportunities.
We spoke with Junfei Ren, the CEO and director of Pando Finance, who gave us an insider’s view of the company’s investment strategies, innovative decision engine and her expectations for the future of digital assets.
Finance was established to bridge the traditional and digital asset industries. It is on a mission to introduce “institutional-grade investment strategies and regulatory compliance” to the emerging digital asset class. Under Ren’s leadership, the firm is striving to become the world’s most trusted virtual asset manager.
Ren recounted how the company has held its own even during market fluctuations. The “Innovation-themed ETF (exchange-traded fund) (3056.HK)” and “Blockchain-themed ETF (3112.HK)” launched by Pando have shown impressive performance since their issuance in 2022. The former fund invests in “innovative businesses”, i.e., companies that can leverage new technologies and benefit from new business environments, like NVIDIA and Amazon. The latter focuses on blockchain-first companies, including those involved in ledger service and crypto mining.
As of June 14, 2024, the cumulative returns of both funds have exceeded 100%. Remarkably, the Blockchain-themed ETF was ranked second among Hong Kong stock ETFs in the second quarter of 2023 and climbed to first in the fourth quarter of the same year. Evidently, Pando Finance has tamed digital assets to some extent.
If you’ve been following crypto for a few years now, you must be familiar with its temperamental nature. To this, Ren’s approach offers a fresh perspective. “Investing in innovation inherently means embracing uncertainty. The path of technological advancement is rarely linear, and the ultimate applications of emerging technologies are often difficult to predict,” Ren explains. This challenge is compounded by geopolitical tensions and a high-interest rate environment.
While this would be enough to send asset managers in the opposite direction, Pando Finance sees the immense potential for disruption and innovation within the crypto and blockchain space. “The idea of a decentralized financial system, built on transparency and security, was incredibly appealing,” says Ren.
But how does an asset management firm make sound decisions in such a dynamic environment? That’s where Pando’s “Decision Engine” comes in. On how the Decision Engine works, Ren describes this tool as employing a dual-pronged approach: a topdown macroeconomic analysis to understand the broader context, coupled with a bottom-up assessment of individual companies. “We don’t try to time the market; we focus on identifying and capitalizing on sustainable growth trends,” she asserts.
Pando’s investment choices are thoughtful, focusing on industries and companies that demonstrate technological and commercial leadership. For example, both of its ETFs launched with NVIDIA
as an initial position. This decision stemmed from a deep analysis of NVIDIA’s chip design leadership across multiple sectors, including artificial intelligence, blockchain technology and the metaverse. Ren says, “This diversified exposure within highgrowth sectors gave us confidence in the company’s long-term potential, offering a
degree of certainty in an otherwise unpredictable market.”
Navigating developing crypto regulations
Ren believes that regulation is crucial to the overall health of the virtual asset business. While it may present initial challenges, embracing new regulatory frameworks fosters a more secure and trustworthy environment for all stakeholders. To this end, Pando aligns its operations with expectations from regulatory bodies like the Securities and Future Commissions of Hong Kong (SFC).
Pando works with SFC-approved service providers throughout its entire execution chain. This includes collaborating with regulated custodians, exchanges and banking institutions. By doing so, Pando ensures high operational integrity and compliance.
Secondly, it employs a segregated portfolio company (SPC) operational structure, mirroring the practices of traditional fund initiators and approvers. This structure guarantees fund management and ownership segregation, safeguarding clients’ funds and reinforcing transparency. Pando Finance also emphasizes transparency and security in all fund movements. Through whitelisted wallet addresses and traceable fund transfer protocols, it provides a clear and auditable trail for all transactions, minimizing risks and building trust among investors.
Reflecting on the broader digital asset landscape, Ren expresses optimism, “While we’ve seen significant strides in regulatory acceptance with the approval of Bitcoin ETFs by institutions like the U.S. SEC and Hong Kong’s SFC, the innovation I’m most looking forward to in blockchain next is its widespread adoption and integration into real-world applications.” Natasha M. is a staff writer at Jumpstart.
Catch up on Hong Kong’s InnoEX and EFSE—where tomorrow’s tech is today’s plaything.
By NASIR AHMED
The second edition of InnoEX and the 20th HKTDC Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Spring Edition) (EFSE), which wrapped up on April 16, was a spectacle of innovation and collaboration. Co-organized by the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau of the Hong Kong SAR Government and Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), this four-day event hosted an impressive roster of 3,000 exhibitors from more than 20 countries and regions—a significant increase from last year.
With a record attendance of around 88,000 buyers from 139 countries and regions, including key markets like mainland China, India, Japan, Korea and the United States, the event solidified Hong Kong’s reputation as an international hub for innovation and technology (I&T).
A global stage for local impact
This year’s InnoEX and EFSE not only showcased a dazzling array of smart solutions and groundbreaking products but also highlighted Hong Kong’s pivotal role in connecting local innovations with global markets.
Themed “Innovations for A Smarter World,” InnoEX highlighted next-generation technologies that promise to enhance daily life and tackle complex challenges. Meanwhile, EFSE focused on advanced electronics and health-management products, offering a glimpse into the future of tech that cares.
entral to InnoEX was the Smart Hong Kong Pavilion, organized by the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer (OGCIO). Here, over 100 technology solutions designed to improve everyday life were on display, from AI-driven environmental monitoring to smart mobility solutions. This demonstrated Hong Kong’s strides in smart city development and I&T advancement.
The “So French So Innovative” pavilion and contributions from 20 mainland China pavilions brought global tech advancements to Hong Kong’s doorstep. These exhibits not only showcased the latest in realms like aerospace, AI and robotics but also sparked local business collaborations aimed at integrating these technologies into the Hong Kong market.
Local companies, too, had standout moments. For instance, Greentek, celebrating its 20th year at EFSE, secured substantial orders of US$200,000 from primarily European and US buyers at the fairs, reflecting the global demand for Hong Kong’s tech products. The fair facilitated local companies like Greentek to scale operations and expand their international footprint dramatically.
Organized by the Hong Kong Alumni Association of Beijing Universities, the inaugural Hong Kong World Youth Science Conference successfully convened Nobel Prize and Turing Award laureates together with top technology experts.
“Capitalising on Hong Kong’s esteemed position as an international trade centre, the HKTDC is committed to supporting companies in expanding their market reach for innovative products, fortifying the I&T ecosystem, and augmenting local I&T capabilities.”
Together, they explored topics like big data, AI, quantum computing, biotechnology, new materials and more. This melding of minds underscored the fair’s role in nurturing a new generation of tech talent ready to take on global challenges.
In recognition of the critical role of
emerging talent in the I&T sector, this year’s fairs also introduced “Exhibitors Meet Talents”, in collaboration with Jobsdb, Hong Kong Top Talent Services Association and Cyberport. This initiative aimed to connect local tech firms with top-tier talent, further nurturing the local innovation ecosystem.
Feedback from the industry giants was universally positive. Don Tsang, Senior Business Director at Ant Group, praised InnoEX’s international reach, connecting with innovators across Southeast Asia, Europe and the US.
“What particularly captured my attention were the exhibitors from Shenzhen. Their products have already reached a high level of maturity and have successfully attained dominant market leadership. I
look forward to attending InnoEX again next year!” he remarked.
Surveys conducted during the events highlighted the local industry’s strengths, with 31% of local exhibitors citing AI as the most advantageous I&T area, closely followed by fintech. Additionally, the surveys indicated that smart home and smart living products, electronic accessories and home appliances were seen as having the highest growth potential in the electronics sector.
Sophia Chong, Deputy Executive Director of the HKTDC, emphasized the optimism and the strategic role Hong Kong plays in the global tech ecosystem. “Capitalising on Hong Kong’s esteemed position as an international trade centre, the HKTDC is committed to supporting companies in expanding their market reach for innovative products, fortifying the I&T ecosystem, and augmenting local I&T capabilities,” she added.
s the curtain falls on this year’s InnoEX and EFSE, the blend of global innovations with local applications has not only showcased Hong Kong’s capabilities but has also set the stage for future growth. The HKTDC’s ongoing efforts to merge international innovations with local business opportunities continue to enhance Hong Kong’s role as a dynamic leader in global tech development.
With such a resounding success this year, the excitement is already mounting for next year. Both buyers and exhibitors are looking forward to an even more transformative experience, hoping to further establish Hong Kong as a leading capital of technology.
Nasir Ahmed is a staff writer at Jumpstart.
Explore the top tech startup events from around the world!
By JAMES KWAN
As the tech industry evolves rapidly, it is essential to keep up with the latest trends and happenings. Over the past year, various innovations have been showcased brilliantly at tech events across the globe. As Executive Chairman of Jumpstart, one of my main tasks is to travel the world to attend startup events. I know, it is a tough job but someone has to do it. Major perks to attending these startup events include meeting old friends and making new ones, getting a firsthand look at emerging trends and having meaningful conversations with the best minds in innovation. Every event offers a different perspective on the ever-evolving startup landscape and how it is reshaping the global innovation scene. Join me as I share my standout moments as well as thoughts on each of the events. Heck, I’ll even rate the events on a scale of 1 to 5.
Tech in Asia—Jakarta, October 2023
The first exhibition was Tech in Asia Jakarta in October 2023. I remember attending this event in 2019 pre-Covid and it was a big energetic show. Fast forward to present and the show is now housed in the massive Pacific Place Mall in the heart of Jakarta. Somehow TIA Jakarta 2023 felt smaller and less dynamic. The event brought together early and growth-stage startups from around the world. Despite being a significantly smaller event compared to its pre-COVID edition, the valiant efforts of the organizers must be commended as this was the city’s first major post-COVID tech startup event.
Some conference highlights included featured fintech panels, with speakers from leading companies like HijraBank and Superbank discussing the region’s evolving digital banking industry. Other highlight sessions included a discussion on the concept of hyper-personalization in custom-
er engagement by Marc-Antoine Hager, the Regional Head of Southeast Asia of CleverTap. Despite its smaller scale, Tech in Asia provided rich content and robust networking opportunities. However, having been to its previous larger-scale events, Tech in Asia Jakarta 2023 was slightly underwhelming.
Would I go again? Yes, but I do hope to see the healthy energy return soon.
“Explore the Innovation Ocean” StartmeupHK— Hong Kong, November 2023
Thisevent was special because Jumpstart was the inaugural day host for the ten-day-long StartmeupHK Festival hosted by InvestHK and its local partners. It is also Hong Kong’s largest startup innovation event. Jumpstart Media proudly hosted the opening day on November 8, which proved to be a major success. The “Explore the Innovation Ocean” was an exciting event held at the renowned Ocean Park, Hong Kong. Events were held throughout the park, which included Ferris Wheel investor matching, pitching in a real Shark Tank, and a WEB3 corner hosted by AllStarsWomen DAO drawing a diverse crowd of entrepreneurs, investors, and business enthusiasts.
Throughout the day, attendees had the opportunity to attend panels with insights from VIP speakers including Alex Xu, CEO of MultiMetaverse and former CEO of Leyou Technologies, Dr. Sara Cheung, Managing Director of Asia Era One, and Dr. Jia Zou, VP at Roblox China. The event ended with a bang with a VIP dinner at the aquatic restaurant in Ocean Park, where Allan Zeman gave a keynote speech. All in all, this event was a significant gathering, featuring more than 40 speakers across 12 panels, and attracting over 250 students from 7 schools spanning 39 countries and regions.
Every event offers a different perspective on the ever-evolving startup landscape and how it is reshaping the global innovation scene
Web Summit—Doha, February 2024
WebSummit debuted in Qatar, with its event in the Doha convention center in February 2024. Even though it was the first time a startup tech event of this grand scale was being held in Doha, this show was so well managed it felt like it had been running for years. Credit definitely goes to Web Summit’s well-oiled events team. At this point in time, no one does startup tech better. In my opinion, this was an exceptional event, showcasing innovation and thought leadership with various top speakers. Among the speakers, Tim Ellis, CEO and co-founder of Relativity Space stood out. He wowed the audience by discussing the growth of telecommunications infrastructure in space
Other featured discussions included artificial intelligence (AI), the intersection between tech and justice, and developments in space. Another notable highlight of this event was the after-party on the beach. You can’t beat an open-air party with good music, vibes, and drinks. This allowed founders, investors, and corporates of all sorts, to interact and network in a relaxed atmosphere. The hospitality and service were top-notch. The summit marked Doha’s rapid emergence as a tech hub, setting a high standard for subsequent events. Would I go again? Yes, this is a not-tobe-missed event if you are interested to explore and expand into the Middle Eastern market.
SXSW is a cultural powerhouse event hosted every year in Austin, Texas, the Live Music Capital of the World. The event never disappoints, as it connects entertainment, music, food and innovation. You get to see the Hollywood A-listers, music royalty, as well as top tech innovators and startup founders--all in the same place! It is the intersection of technology, creativity, and culture.
I am honored to have been an advisory board member for SXSW for the past five years and can’t imagine any other city hosting an event with such a rich legacy. The addition of good food, vibes, and cultural history makes it a remarkable event. This year, the event featured a keynote from Dr. Lisa Su, CEO of AMD, who offered fresh insights into the evolving landscape and future of AI. The event’s unique blend of tech innovation with music, film, and interactive media, makes it a truly multidisciplinary feast for the senses. SXSW continues to offer attendees a holistic view of creativity in the digital age.
Would I go again? Absolutely, can’t wait for next year!
SusHi-Tech—Tokyo, May 2024
The most surprising event of 2024 was undoubtedly SusHi-Tech (also known as Sustainable High City Tech) Tokyo. My history with innovation and tech events in Tokyo has not been positive. However, this event earlier in May 2024 exceeded all my expectations and changed my outlook on where Tokyo stood in terms of startup tech events. The capital city went all out hosting an international crowd and showcasing the country’s commitment to innovation. The event shed light on various sectors of the tech industry, as the side events were sprinkled all across the multiple venues. They had something for everyone.
The eponymous event was incomplete without Sushi, as it featured an extensive Sushi-tasting event, along with other traditional Japanese food options. The networking and investor program was also a delight to attend. The blend of Japanese culture, food, and music with tech and innovation was a turning point as it reflected Japan’s ambition to lead in cutting-edge technologies and foster international collaborations.
Would I go again? Yes, SusHi-tech stood out for me this time and is one of my go-to events next year.
Beyond Expo—Macau, May 2024
There has never been a major startup innovation held in Macau prior to 2023. Recognizing that gap, the co-organizers of Beyond Expo, Gang Lu and Jason Ho put their mark on the space by hosting a mega startup event full of celebrity guests, pool parties, charity poker games and a gala VIP dinner. Held in May 2024, Beyond Expo is the only innovation event in Asia that takes
place in a Casino! Keynote speaker Dr. Robin Zeng, Founder and CEO of CATL, spoke on uncertainties in the market and the transformative potential of energy storage. The expo also featured a panel on the future of AI, where experts discussed how AI is sparking disruptions and innovation in Asia’s various industries.
With guests like the legendary footballer David Beckham and Asian music sensation Jackson Wang, you do not have to look at the sky to see the stars! Beyond Expo is looking to create the CES of the East in Macau. Soon, I see this regional innovation player transforming into a global player, slowly carving out its place among the industry leaders.
Would I go again? Yes, this is a not to be missed event in Asia.
London Tech Week—London, June 2024
London is a leading global financial hub with a rich cultural history and probably the city in Europe with the most innovative startup founders. London Tech Week is a 4-day event that was held this year in June 2024. The location of the event was a bit further from city center but very accessible via public transportation. The event itself was a bit underwhelming. The space felt more like a large gymnasium, with booths for university students to pick their favorite classes. It did not feel like an event that was going to run for 4 days nor did it feel like an event hosted by a major city. The food choices at the venue were expensive and barely edible.
Despite some organizational and execution challenges, London Tech Week offered meaningful discussions on the future of technology in the UK. Other bright spots would be the quality of the networking and the side event InvestHK held at Leighton House.
Would I attend again? Probably not for a few years.
Web Summit Collision—Toronto, June 2024
WebSummit ranks high as one of the most professional tech startup event organizers globally. Their final Toronto event in June did not disappoint either. The event hosted the brightest minds of tech, featuring keynotes from influential figures like Geoffrey Hinton, often referred to as the “Godfather of AI,” who delivered a stark warning about the potential dangers
of AI, including the risks posed by autonomous weapons and surveillance
I had the privilege of being a speaker guest at this exciting event and I must say, the food in the speaker room was the best I’ve ever had anywhere! From freshly shucked oysters to giant shrimp cocktails and made-to-order pasta-- everything was perfect. Although their afterparties were not as flamboyant as the ones in Doha, the thoughtfulness and carefully curated arrangements made this event a success. Web Summit knows how to treat its guests and speakers.
Would I join again? Yes, but the Web Summit event in Canada will be in Vancouver for 2025.
Techsauce Global Summit—Bangkok, August 2024
Ihavebeen saying it for the past 5 years and I still stand by it--Techsauce Global Summit is the best innovation show in Southeast Asia. Held in beautiful Bangkok, the most visited city in the world, the Summit drew startups and founders from across the globe to discuss and inspire the visitors. Oranuch Lerdsuwankij, CEO and Co-Founder of Techsauce delivered a keynote that underscored Thailand’s role as a digital gateway to the region.
The summit assembled over 300 brilliant speakers, including regional leaders like “Krating” Ruangroj Poonpol, Chairman of Kasikorn Business-Technology Group, who discussed the impact of AI on the financial sector. The Techsauce Summit also showcased the region’s growing startup ecosystem, with dedicated sessions on venture capital strategies and scaling businesses in emerging markets. Bangkok’s Techsauce Global Summit reaffirmed the city’s position as a key player in the Southeast startup scene.
Would I join again? Yes, I have joined every Techsauce since its first one 8 years ago.
From Tokyo to Toronto, these events and exhibitions have helped me expand my innovation network and gain a fresh perspective on the tech industry. Without a doubt, the past year was eventful in the tech world. My experience through 3 continents and 9 cities has provided me with invaluable insights and has deepened my understanding of the global tech landscape which will help shape the future of Jumpstart Media. James Kwan is the Executive Chairperson at Jumpstart.
Our contributors and interviewees share their stories
Facing a setback head-on means fully acknowledging the negative emotions that come with it. Allowing yourself to deeply experience and work through those difficult feelings will help you move forward meaningfully. Embracing failure will ultimately help you advance beyond it to success.
Thriving Through Your Genes: WeGene’s Path to an Optimized Life (pg.74)
When you hit a rough patch in life, take a step back and do a holistic review of how you approach life. Are you doing the right things? Are you following the right path? If you are, trust the system and the process. All you need is a bit of more luck and patience to come back on top.
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Listen to advice from others - especially friends and family who know you best. Realize that what's lost is sunk cost and don't keep investing time and money into a pit. One step in the wrong direction isn't the end of the world - just be brave and don't be afraid to start fresh.
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Know when to ask for help. Sometimes surrounding yourself with supportive people and leaning on the strengths of those who have overcome similar struggles can help you navigate through even life’s toughest times.
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Just recognize that setbacks are simply a part of life. There's no point in denying the existence of failure. I find that this realization will help allow the mind to calm down, analyze the situation and find new opportunities for growth. Set new goals and plans, which will help motivate and reclaim your drive to try anew.
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