Author: Yimie Yong

As part of the "employee base optimization", Carsome said it will focus on improving productivity across the business, aligning resources with contributions to the bottom line, and enforcing stricter performance management. This strategy will impact a certain number of employees, who will receive their full severance package and extended health benefits…

Besides Japan, Carro is also eyeing several markets including Australia, Philippines, Vietnam markets, Narushima said.

On Tuesday, 15 startups across nine verticals including manufacturing, SAAS, HealthTech, logisitcs, AgriTech, FoodTech, FinTech, EdTech and PropTech were chosen to pitch on the demo day.

150 semi-finalists of this year’s X-PITCH were selected from 4,000+ startups in 51 countries.

Alibaba Cloud commits to $1 billion investment to boost ecosystem capabilities while showcasing new products and comprehensive customer support for complete services.

In addition to providing financing, UOB Malaysia will also be collaborating with the Malaysian Research Accelerator for Technology and Innovation (MRANTI) to establish an ESG workshop series to equip SMEs with knowledge and practical insights to embark on their ESG journeys.

VinFast, on the other hand, is taking a different approach. It is building a global EV brand. Besides its manufacturing complex in Hai Phong, Vietnam, VinFast will build a plant in US, and planning another in Europe. It is set to make history as the first car brand from Southeast Asia to build manufacturing plant in the US and Europe.

The company’s main objective for the next 12 to 18 months is to achieve positive cash flow as soon as possible.

Softbank would likely use its own cash for what would be the third SoftBank Vision Fund if it moves ahead with the plan, the people reportedly said.

In the interview, Senju also shared his views on the opportunities and challenges he sees in Southeast Asia.