Posts from the 'Event' Category

Session 2: Singapore’s Model for Startup Ecosystem- Anndy Lian

Session 2: Singapore’s Model for Startup Ecosystem- Anndy Lian

On May 13, 2025, Anndy Lian, a best-selling book author, licensed fund manager, and seasoned venture capitalist, delivered an insightful speech at the “Policy Ecosystem Development for Startups” event in Mongolia. Organized by the Mongolian Ministry of Economy and Development, the Asian Productivity Organization, and the Mongolian Productivity Organization, the event brought together representatives from over ten countries to discuss strategies for fostering startup ecosystems.

In his session titled “Singapore’s Model for Startup Ecosystem,” Lian explored how Singapore has transformed from a colonial trading post into a global innovation hub, emphasizing its strategic policies, robust infrastructure, and international collaborations. This article distills the key points and highlights from Lian’s speech, offering a comprehensive look at Singapore’s startup success story.

Singapore’s Journey to a Global Innovation Hub

Lian began by tracing Singapore’s evolution from a 19th-century colonial trading port to one of the world’s leading startup hubs in the 21st century. This transformation, he noted, was not accidental but the result of deliberate government policies, a strategic location, and a forward-thinking approach to innovation. With a startup ecosystem valued at approximately SGD 1.44 billion, Singapore has leveraged its position in Asia, multilingual workforce, and robust financial sector to attract entrepreneurs and investors alike.

“Singapore’s strength lies in its location in Asia, a multilingual workforce, and a very robust financial sector,” Lian emphasized. The city-state hosts nearly all major global venture capital (VC) funds, either through Asian offices or dedicated subdivisions, making it a magnet for startups in sectors like fintech, healthcare, and deep tech. With over 4,500 tech startups, more than 400 VC firms, and 240 incubators and accelerators, Singapore has created a comprehensive ecosystem that supports startups at every stage of their journey.

Government Initiatives: The Backbone of Success

A cornerstone of Singapore’s startup ecosystem is its proactive government support, exemplified by initiatives like Startup SG and the Smart Nation vision. Lian highlighted how these programs have been instrumental in driving entrepreneurial growth and technological advancement. Startup SG, launched in 2017, provides mentorship, grants, and networking opportunities, fostering an environment where startups can thrive. “The networking opportunity is, in my opinion, the most important part,” Lian said, underscoring how connections facilitated by Startup SG have led to success stories in the VC space.

Since 2015, the Singapore government has invested over SGD 1 billion in startup programs, supporting more than 2,000 startups annually across sectors like fintech, healthcare, and sustainability. Programs like the Startup SG Founder Grant offer up to SGD 50,000 and mentorship to first-time entrepreneurs, while Startup SG Equity co-invests up to SGD 8 million with private VCs in high-growth startups. Lian cited Ninja Van, a logistics provider that scaled rapidly with support from SG Equity funding, as a prime example of how these initiatives translate into real-world success.

The Smart Nation initiative, another key pillar, integrates technology into areas like the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI). Lian noted that Singapore’s small size makes it an ideal testbed for innovative solutions, enabling rapid implementation and iteration. “Because we are small, it’s easy for us to implement a lot of different initiatives,” he said, pointing to Singapore’s ambition to lead in smart urban living.

Historical Milestones and Growth Phases

Lian provided a historical perspective to illustrate Singapore’s long-term commitment to innovation. In 1981, the National Computer Board (NCB) laid the groundwork for tech development, followed by companies like Creative Technology, which pioneered MP3 players and speakers. By 2000, the Economic Development Board (EDB) launched a bioscience initiative, attracting SGD 2 billion in startup investments. The National Research Foundation, established in 2006, further bolstered research and development (R&D) efforts, supporting companies like Hyflux, a water refinery innovator.

The period from 2010 to 2015 marked a significant growth phase, with startup funding rising from USD 80 million to USD 1 billion. Lian highlighted Lazada, founded in 2012, which leveraged Singapore’s logistical advantages to become a dominant e-commerce player in Southeast Asia. By 2017, the ecosystem had grown to USD 11 billion, driven by government support and global attention. Companies like Grab, initially a Malaysia-based startup, solidified their unicorn status in Singapore, expanding into markets like Cambodia, Malaysia, and Thailand while diversifying into financial tools and cryptocurrency payments.

Attracting Global Talent and Partnerships

Singapore’s ability to attract global talent and foster international partnerships was another key focus of Lian’s speech. With over 150,000 foreign professionals working in Singapore—29% of whom are in the tech sector—the city-state has become a hub for diverse expertise. Initiatives like the Tech.Pass, launched in 2021, and the EntrePass offer visas to top talent and entrepreneurs, with approval rates for tech roles reaching 90%. “The government views talent as one of the key pillars of economic growth,” Lian noted, highlighting the selective yet supportive nature of these programs.

International collaborations further enhance Singapore’s global competitiveness. Partnerships with institutions like MIT, Tsinghua University, and the Israel Innovation Authority have driven advancements in AI, cybersecurity, and deep tech. The Singapore-Israel Innovation Summit in 2022, for instance, facilitated cross-border exchanges, enabling Singaporean and Israeli companies to learn from each other. Collaborations with the World Bank, DBS, and the United Nations on fintech projects, as well as partnerships with France on autonomous systems, underscore Singapore’s commitment to global integration.

A Supportive Regulatory Environment

Singapore’s pro-business regulatory framework is a critical enabler of its startup ecosystem. Lian emphasized the ease of doing business, with company registration possible within one to two days. The city-state ranks highly for its strong legal framework and business-friendly policies, making it a preferred destination for crypto and fintech companies.

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has established a fintech sandbox, which Lian described as “one of the best” he has seen, allowing startups to test innovative solutions with regulatory guidance. Compliance workshops and a trusted reputation further enhance Singapore’s appeal, ensuring accountability while fostering innovation.

Success Stories and Future Outlook

Lian shared inspiring success stories to illustrate Singapore’s impact. Carousell, a marketplace platform, grew from a valuation of a few million to unicorn status with support from Singaporean funds and government initiatives. Similarly, ShopBack’s cashback model and Grab’s expansion into financial services highlight the scalability of Singapore-based startups. Over 40% of Singapore’s unicorn founders have international backgrounds, reflecting the city-state’s ability to attract and nurture global talent.

Looking ahead, Lian identified fintech, healthcare, deep tech, AI, cryptocurrency, and green tech as key growth sectors. Singapore’s consistent VC funding—over USD 12 billion in recent years—and its ranking as the fifth-best startup ecosystem globally position it for continued leadership. “Those who dare to dream big are the architects of a better world,” Lian concluded, inviting entrepreneurs to explore Singapore’s supportive ecosystem. He extended a personal offer to connect with startups, emphasizing Singapore’s willingness to go the extra mile compared to other governments.

Bottom Line

Anndy Lian’s speech at the Mongolia event painted a vivid picture of Singapore’s startup ecosystem, driven by strategic government initiatives, a robust financial sector, and a commitment to global collaboration. From its historical roots to its current status as a top-five global startup hub, Singapore offers a model for fostering innovation through talent attraction, regulatory support, and international partnerships.

With success stories like Carousell, Grab, and Ninja Van, and a forward-looking focus on emerging technologies, Singapore continues to solidify its position as a launchpad for startups aiming to make a global impact. For entrepreneurs worldwide, Lian’s message was clear: Singapore is ready to help you turn bold dreams into reality.

 

 

Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.

Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.

An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.

www.anndy.com
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Consensus 2025: What’s Next for WEEX? Presented by Thomas Kay; Fireside chat with Anndy Lian

Consensus 2025: What’s Next for WEEX? Presented by Thomas Kay; Fireside chat with Anndy Lian

The Hong Kong Consensus 2025 spotlight stage provided a platform for leading voices in the blockchain and Web3 space to share their insights and experiences. A key highlight was the presentation by Thomas Kay, Vice President of WEEX Global, followed by a candid fireside chat with Anndy Lian, a best-selling author and blockchain strategist. The event, presented by WEEX, offered a glimpse into the exchange’s rapid growth and a broader discussion on the evolving landscape of Web3.

WEEX Global: A Story of Exponential Growth

Thomas Kay’s presentation detailed WEEX Global’s impressive journey since its establishment in 2018. He shared that WEEX secured a $100 million investment in 2019 from top Singaporean investment firms. Within two years, the platform grew from zero to a staggering $2 billion in daily trading volume. By 2022, WEEX reached 500,000 daily users and signed Jackie Wu, a leading Hong Kong entertainer, as its global brand ambassador.

Kay highlighted that in 2023, WEEX’s user base expanded to over 2 million globally, and they obtained SVG and FSA licenses, enabling operations in over 200 countries and regions. Another $100 million investment was secured from FSN Group, a major South Korean marketing agency. Kay proudly stated, “2024, I think it was one of our best year, full of achievements. I’m very proud to say that we are one of the fastest-growing exchange last year.” The exchange grew from 2 million to 6 million users, reaching a daily trading volume of $5 billion.

A key differentiator for WEEX, according to Kay, is its extensive offering of altcoin pairs. “We have one of the most altcoin pairs, 1,700 plus futures and spot trading pairs,” he stated, providing users with a vast variety of trading options. He emphasized WEEX’s commitment to listing valuable projects, with over 100 different projects listed monthly.

Kay also pointed out WEEX’s focus on liquidity. “When it comes to trading, liquidity is honestly one of the highest priorities for a lot of users,” he said. WEEX boasts over 800 deep liquidity futures and ranks top five among all exchanges in terms of liquidity. Notably, research by CoinMarketCap placed WEEX in the top three for Bitcoin and Ethereum liquidity.

WEEX recently introduced higher leverage options, up to 400x. Kay acknowledged, “I personally would never recommend anyone to go above 50x,” but noted that over 30% of users trade with more than 200x leverage. He explained that this caters to the market trend where users seek higher upside with less capital.

Security remains a top priority for WEEX. Kay mentioned the establishment of a 1,000 BTC protection fund to ensure user fund security. “We have consistently managed to have more than 100% reserve ratio for the last two years,” he added.

The WEEX Token (WXT) and Future Plans

Kay introduced WEEX’s native platform token, WXT, highlighting its remarkable growth of 384% since launch. He described it as “a benchmark for every centralized exchange trying to launch a token right now.” WEEX plans to replicate the success of other exchange tokens by burning WXT quarterly, using 20% of the company’s profits to reduce supply and enhance token value.

WXT offers users up to 70% trading fee discounts and higher profit shares for affiliates. Kay also highlighted the “relaunch” platform, where users can commit WXT to projects and receive airdrops. He announced a current event offering 1 million USDT worth of WXT airdrops to holders.

Looking ahead, WEEX plans to be active in conferences and expand globally, with a new office launching in Dubai. Kay emphasized the focus on providing the best experience for all users, including institutional and high-net-worth individuals. He also stressed the importance of community engagement and global compliance. “In 2025, one of our top priorities across all departments is compliance,” he stated.

Fireside Chat: Community, Exchanges, and Sustainability in Web3

The fireside chat between Thomas Kay and Anndy Lian delved into the challenges and opportunities in the Web3 space. The conversation began with a discussion on community building.

Kay acknowledged the difficulty, stating, “Building community is a lot tougher than a lot of you guys think,” especially compared to 2018. He emphasized the need to provide value beyond incentives: “We want communities that stay with you because of who you are or what you provide for them long term.”

Lian added that users are now more sophisticated, seeking transparency and understanding the relationship between projects and exchanges. “It’s not easy to really build effectively,” he said, highlighting the need for unity and collaboration within the ecosystem. He suggested that established exchanges should support smaller projects in emerging markets.

Lian emphasized the importance of genuine community engagement. “Whenever I see a very good community…it will be easier for us to spot good projects on X,” he said, noting that real community members’ actions and feedback are distinct from bots.

The conversation shifted to the evolving role of exchanges. Lian pointed out that users are looking for exchanges that offer an extra layer of security and accessibility, particularly for on-ramping and off-ramping funds. He also predicted a decline in KOL-driven exchanges, stating, “Exchanges’ role is also to help us see out what are the goods that you should really talk to and work with.”

Lian shared an interesting observation: “Normies are actually asking these questions in specific AMAs or private groups,” referring to questions about exchange listing fees and whether exchanges are genuinely supporting the community or prioritizing revenue. He stressed that “things should be transparent.”

Regarding the future of projects and memes, Lian sees meme coins as a “door opener” for easy entry into the crypto space. However, he emphasized the need for a sustainable roadmap beyond the initial hype. He suggested models like franchise cafes or merchandise, where the community works for their own benefit, ensuring long-term sustainability.

Lian criticized projects with “no plans” and “poor leaders,” emphasizing the need for price action and real partnerships. He highlighted the importance of exchanges partnering with good communities for a win-win situation. He cautioned against prioritizing influencers over genuine community benefit, stating, “If you want to be sustainable, you have a big community, make sure that you can monetize that.”

The fireside chat concluded with a call for candid conversations and mindful actions within the Web3 space. Lian’s closing remark, “I hope everybody can do well in this run,” encapsulated the overall sentiment of the event: a focus on collaboration, transparency, and sustainable growth within the evolving world of blockchain and Web3.

 

Video Source: https://consensus-hongkong2025.coindesk.com/agenda/event/-weex-sponsored-session-92 (Official Video from Consensus 2025)

Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.

Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.

An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.

www.anndy.com
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Winning Web3: The Marketing Strategies That Actually Work – Cointelegraph

Winning Web3: The Marketing Strategies That Actually Work – Cointelegraph

This is a side event organized by Cointelegraph during Consensus 2025 Hong Kong. This event has brought together some of the brightest minds in the Web3 space to discuss marketing strategies that work in the ever-evolving blockchain and cryptocurrency industry. This article highlights the key takeaways from the panel titled “Winning Web3: The Marketing Strategies That Actually Work”, with a focus on Anndy Lian’s contributions at the panel.

The Role of Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) in Web3 Marketing

The panel began with a discussion on the role of Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) in the Web3 space. Anndy Lian, a seasoned investor and author with a significant following on social media, emphasized the importance of distinguishing between influencers and true KOLs. He noted that while many influencers in the crypto space focus on promoting projects for short-term gains, true KOLs should provide meaningful insights and add long-term value to the ecosystem.

Anndy stated, “The term ‘KOL’ originally came from the Chinese market, where it was used to describe individuals whose opinions were recognized and respected. However, in today’s market, many so-called KOLs are merely influencers who focus on shilling projects without understanding their fundamentals. This is not sustainable.”

He further elaborated on the need for KOLs to act as thought leaders rather than just promoters. According to Anndy, the credibility of a KOL lies in their ability to produce valuable content and foster trust within their community.

Building Sustainable Communities

One of the recurring themes in Anndy Lian’s remarks was the importance of building sustainable communities. He argued that a strong community is the backbone of any successful Web3 project. Unlike traditional marketing, where the focus is on driving sales, Web3 marketing requires a more nuanced approach that prioritizes community engagement and education.

Anndy explained, “If you have a strong community, you can drive revenue and profits in the long term. It’s not just about building technology; it’s about building a vision that resonates with people. Projects should focus on setting clear targets for community building and delivering value to their members.”

He also highlighted the role of transparency and accountability in community building. Projects that fail to deliver on their promises or engage in unethical practices risk losing the trust of their community, which can be detrimental in the long run.

The Challenges of Working with Influencers

The panel also discussed the challenges of working with influencers in the Web3 space. Anndy shared his experiences as both an investor and a marketer, shedding light on the complexities of influencer marketing. He pointed out that while influencers can help projects gain visibility, the return on investment (ROI) is often unpredictable.

“Some influencers have millions of followers, but their engagement rates are low, and the ROI is disappointing. On the other hand, smaller influencers with niche audiences can deliver better results. It’s crucial to be mindful of what you want to achieve—whether it’s awareness, credibility, or direct sales—and choose your influencers accordingly,” Anndy advised.

He also cautioned against relying solely on influencers for marketing, as this approach can lead to unsustainable growth. Instead, he recommended a balanced strategy that combines influencer marketing with other tactics, such as content creation, partnerships, and community events.

The Importance of Due Diligence

Anndy Lian stressed the importance of conducting thorough due diligence before partnering with influencers or investing in projects. He shared a practical tip for evaluating influencers: “Talk to people in the industry and gather insights. For example, you can reach out to exchanges and ask about the performance of specific influencers. This will give you a better understanding of their impact and credibility.”

He also highlighted the need for projects to clearly define their goals and expectations when working with influencers. By setting measurable objectives and tracking performance, projects can ensure that their marketing efforts align with their overall strategy.

Avoiding the Pitfalls of Meme Coins and Unsustainable Projects

Anndy was vocal about the risks associated with meme coins and unsustainable projects. He acknowledged that while meme coins can attract attention and drive short-term gains, they often lack the fundamentals needed for long-term success.

“Meme coins are one of the easiest entry points for newcomers, but they come with a lot of risks. Many of these projects are driven by hype and lack a clear roadmap or utility. As a result, they fail to deliver value to their investors,” he said.

He urged investors and marketers to focus on projects with strong fundamentals, such as a clear use case, a dedicated team, and a sustainable business model. He also emphasized the importance of educating the community about the risks of speculative investments and encouraging responsible behavior.

Lessons from the FTX Collapse and the Importance of Security

Reflecting on the lessons learned from the FTX collapse, Anndy underscored the importance of security and risk management in the crypto space. He shared his personal experience of losing funds during the FTX debacle and offered practical advice to the audience.

“Always remember to cash out and secure your funds. Use hardware wallets and avoid keeping large amounts of money on exchanges. Even experienced investors can fall victim to phishing attacks, so it’s crucial to stay vigilant,” he warned.

Anndy also highlighted the need for greater accountability among KOLs and influencers. He called on them to be transparent about their affiliations and to prioritize the interests of their community over personal gains.

The Future of Web3 Marketing

Looking ahead, Anndy Lian expressed optimism about the future of Web3 marketing. He believes that as the industry matures, there will be a greater emphasis on quality over quantity. Projects that focus on delivering real value and building trust will stand out in an increasingly crowded market.

“The next wave of successful projects will be those that prioritize community building, transparency, and long-term sustainability. Marketing strategies should evolve to reflect these values, and KOLs should play a more active role in educating and empowering their communities,” he concluded.

Final Thoughts

The panel at Consensus 2025 provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in Web3 marketing. Anndy Lian’s contributions stood out for their emphasis on sustainability, transparency, and community building. His practical advice and candid observations serve as a reminder that success in the Web3 space requires more than just hype—it requires a commitment to creating real value and fostering trust.

As the Web3 ecosystem continues to evolve, marketers, investors, and KOLs must adapt their strategies to meet the changing needs of the industry. By focusing on the fundamentals and staying true to their values, they can help shape a more sustainable and inclusive future for blockchain and cryptocurrency.

 

Anndy Lian is an early blockchain adopter and experienced serial entrepreneur who is known for his work in the government sector. He is a best selling book author- “NFT: From Zero to Hero” and “Blockchain Revolution 2030”.

Currently, he is appointed as the Chief Digital Advisor at Mongolia Productivity Organization, championing national digitization. Prior to his current appointments, he was the Chairman of BigONE Exchange, a global top 30 ranked crypto spot exchange and was also the Advisory Board Member for Hyundai DAC, the blockchain arm of South Korea’s largest car manufacturer Hyundai Motor Group. Lian played a pivotal role as the Blockchain Advisor for Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in the Asia-Pacific region.

An avid supporter of incubating start-ups, Anndy has also been a private investor for the past eight years. With a growth investment mindset, Anndy strategically demonstrates this in the companies he chooses to be involved with. He believes that what he is doing through blockchain technology currently will revolutionise and redefine traditional businesses. He also believes that the blockchain industry has to be “redecentralised”.

www.anndy.com
j j j