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An Insightful Conversation with Anndy Lian from Singapore – Author of ‘Discovering Singapore By Chance: A Personal Discovery’

An Insightful Conversation with Anndy Lian from Singapore – Author of ‘Discovering Singapore By Chance: A Personal Discovery’
At AuthorsWiki, we are privileged to have had the opportunity to connect with Anndy Lian, a Author from Singapore, whose unique voice and creative spirit shine through in their latest work, Discovering Singapore By Chance: A Personal Discovery. Their book, already making waves across leading platforms, invites readers into a world shaped by imagination, experience, and purpose.
Anndy Lian is a Singapore-born investor, author, and advisor at the intersection of technology, finance, and public policy. With a career spanning digital transformation, blockchain, and innovation strategy, he has worked closely with listed companies, startups, and government agencies to navigate the evolving landscape of the digital economy. A regular commentator on tech and economic trends, Anndy brings an insider’s perspective to Singapore’s development—shaped by decades of lived experience and professional engagement.
In Discovering Singapore By Chance, he co-authors a personal and insightful journey into the heart of his home country, blending his deep institutional knowledge with the fresh eyes of his co-author, Jenny Zheng. Through this collaboration, Anndy offers not just a portrait of Singapore’s systems and successes, but a reflection on national identity, progress, and the quiet marvels of a city-state that continues to reinvent itself.
In this conversation, the author opens up about the deeper motivations behind their storytelling, their personal and literary journey, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. Whether you’re a fan of thoughtful writing or someone looking to understand the creative process, this interview promises valuable insight and inspiration.
AuthorsWiki : Apart from writing, what is your occupation for livelihood?
Anndy Lian : Apart from writing, my work centers on investing, advisory roles, and driving digital innovation. I am an active investor and blockchain specialist, guiding startups and established companies alike on technology strategy, digital transformation, and the integration of Web3 solutions. Over the years, I’ve served as an advisor to government bodies and international organizations, helping them understand how emerging technologies can be applied meaningfully in the real world.
I’ve also held leadership positions and I regularly speak at global conferences on fintech, cryptocurrency, and the future of decentralized systems. My work sits at the intersection of finance, technology, and policy, allowing me to support organizations in navigating the fast-changing digital landscape. This blend of experience has positioned me as a trusted voice and consultant in the evolving digital economy.
AuthorsWiki : Tell us something about your first book.
Anndy Lian : Blockchain Revolution 2030 was my first book—a forward-looking exploration of how blockchain can power the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Co-authored with Park Young Sook and Shawn Hamnison and published by Kyobo, South Korea’s leading bookstore chain, it quickly drew interest from tech leaders, policymakers, and businesses eager to move beyond the hype.
We showed how blockchain extends far beyond cryptocurrency, with the potential to transform finance, healthcare, supply chains, governance, and identity. By combining technical insights with real examples, we highlighted its power to increase transparency, efficiency, and trust.
I focused on practical applications in digital assets and fintech, while Park Young Sook contributed policy expertise and Korean market insights, and Shawn Hamnison added a global business perspective. Together, we offered a well-rounded view of the digital future.
More than a guide, the book was a call to action—for innovation, smart regulation, and public understanding. It marked the beginning of my mission to make complex technologies accessible—a mission that continues to drive my work, including in Discovering Singapore By Chance.
AuthorsWiki : Would you like to tell us about your published books?
Anndy Lian : NFT: From Zero to Hero is my solo book and one of my most popular works—a clear, practical guide to the fast-moving world of NFTs. More than a technical manual, it’s a call to action for creators, investors, and visionaries to embrace digital ownership and decentralization.
I wrote it to demystify NFTs, taking readers from the basics to real-world uses in art, gaming, identity, and the metaverse. With case studies and actionable insights, it helps readers understand the technology and find ways to participate.
Published with Bybit and available on Amazon, the book has sold over 8,000 copies and remains a go-to resource for Web3 newcomers. It reflects my mission to make emerging tech accessible, inclusive, and inspiring for all.
AuthorsWiki : Where did you get the inspiration for publishing books?
Anndy Lian : My inspiration to write comes from a simple belief: complex ideas should be easy to understand, not locked behind jargon. I started writing because I saw how blockchain and NFTs felt out of reach for most people. I wanted to close that gap—so I used storytelling to make technology relatable.
My first book, Blockchain Revolution 2030, aimed to show blockchain’s real potential beyond Bitcoin—how it could transform industries and rebuild trust. It was practical, forward-looking, and meant to inspire action.
With NFT: From Zero to Hero, I focused on empowerment. I saw how NFTs gave creators freedom from traditional gatekeepers. I wrote it to be a clear, hopeful guide so anyone could join the digital future.
Then came Discovering Singapore By Chance, a personal journey shaped by my co-author Jenny Zheng’s fresh perspective. Her choice to embrace Singapore made me see home differently. The book shares Singapore not as policy, but as a living story.
At the heart of my writing is this: knowledge should be shared. My goal is clarity and connection. I write hoping someone will read my words and think: I can understand this. I can be part of this. I can help shape what comes next.
AuthorsWiki : How do you manage your time to write a book?
Anndy Lian : I see writing as part of my daily thinking, not a separate task. As a busy investor and advisor, I write in small moments—early mornings, commutes, or between meetings. These fragments gradually shape ideas and build chapters.
I reserve certain days for deep writing, usually before sunrise, when I can focus without distractions. This is when I turn complex thoughts into clear insights.
Collaboration matters. On Discovering Singapore By Chance, my talks with co-author Jenny Zheng became the book’s foundation. Editors Dan Arreola and Nate Lian provided timely feedback, making the process shared and sustainable.
I capture ideas as they come—using voice memos or notes—and often speak drafts aloud, then edit them. I write in pieces, following inspiration, and connect them later.
Deadlines and public commitments keep me on track. Articles, talks, and posts all feed into my books. Writing is a continuous process of reflection.
A book isn’t written in one go. It grows from small, consistent efforts—woven into everyday life.
AuthorsWiki : What is your favorite writing method — the one in which you write the most?
Anndy Lian : My favorite writing method is voice-to-text thinking. I rarely type at first—instead, I speak my ideas aloud. When a thought comes, I record it on my phone as if explaining it to someone, usually in one go for five to ten minutes. Walking or sitting quietly, I let the idea flow naturally, without worrying about structure.
I then use voice-to-text to turn the recording into words. The first draft is rough, with repetition and loose phrasing, but it captures the energy of real thinking. I edit it down, reorganize, and refine until the message is clear.
This works best because I think more clearly by speaking. Talking helps me process ideas faster and more honestly than typing. It removes the pressure to be perfect from the start and lets creativity come through.
I do this mostly in the morning or right after meetings or travel, when insights are fresh. A single recording can become a full book section. Over time, I collect and shape these pieces into a complete narrative.
While I edit directly later, my best writing begins with speaking. For me, voice-to-text isn’t just a tool—it’s how I think, reflect, and create most authentically.
AuthorsWiki : When did you start writing, and how did your interest in writing begin?
Anndy Lian : I’ve been writing since childhood, starting with school essays and journals. Even then, I found that writing helped me think clearly and express myself. It was never just a task—it was a way to understand and connect.
As I moved into technology, finance, and innovation, I began writing articles to simplify complex topics like blockchain and the digital future. I wanted to make these ideas accessible to everyone, not just experts.
Over time, I saw how writing extends reach and impact far beyond speeches or meetings. A single piece can travel the world and keep inspiring long after it’s published.
What began as schoolwork became a core part of my life. Today, writing is how I learn, share, and contribute—turning ideas into clarity, one word at a time.
AuthorsWiki : Is there any special achievement in your life that you would like to share with us and your readers?
Anndy Lian : In 2018, I began speaking to government officials about blockchain and crypto, often facing skepticism. I remember one meeting where the look on their faces said it all: Why are we listening to this? Back then, many saw the technology as a fad or a risk.
But I believed in its potential to transform finance, identity, and governance. So I didn’t give up. I kept explaining, using real examples and clear language, focusing on trust over hype. Slowly, minds changed—from “Why care?” to “How do we implement this responsibly?”
Today, many of those same institutions are advancing digital currencies and smart regulations. Seeing that shift is my proudest achievement. Not because of recognition, but because I stayed committed when few believed.
I’m glad I didn’t give up.
AuthorsWiki : Are you planning to write or publish a book in the present or future?
Anndy Lian : Yes, I’m working on my next book, focused on Web4—the next stage of the internet that combines artificial intelligence, ambient computing, and immersive digital experiences. While Web3 brought ownership through blockchain, Web4 will make technology seamless, intelligent, and deeply integrated into daily life.
The book will explore how this shift affects society, business, identity, and creativity, blending real-world examples with practical insights. I want to make Web4 clear and accessible, just as I did with blockchain and NFTs.
Still in the early stages, the book aims for release within the next year. This isn’t just a forecast—it’s a roadmap for the future, and my goal remains the same: to help people understand, adapt, and shape what comes next.
AuthorsWiki : Would you like to give a message to your readers and fans?
Anndy Lian : To all my readers and fans—thank you.
Your curiosity and support mean a lot. Every message, every question, every story of how my books helped you understand something new reminds me why I write.
I don’t write to impress. I write to connect, to clarify, and to inspire action. If my words have helped you see things differently, then my purpose is fulfilled.
Tech and innovation can be overwhelming, but you don’t need to be an expert to be part of the future. Just stay curious, stay open, and take that first step.
Keep learning. Keep asking questions. Start small—write, speak, create, explore. Progress begins with action.
I’m on this journey with you. There’s more to come—more books, more ideas, more conversations. I hope you’ll stay along, and I’ll keep doing my best to add value, one page at a time.
AuthorsWiki : Every writer has their own ideal. Do you also have an ideal writer? And what are your favorite books that you always want to read?
Anndy Lian : Every writer is shaped by the books they read, and I’m no exception. While I don’t have one ideal writer, I deeply admire those who make complex ideas simple and empowering rather than flashy. One such influence is Robert Kiyosaki, especially through Rich Dad Poor Dad.
That book changed how I see money, assets, and financial freedom. It taught me that true wealth comes from understanding systems, not just working hard. Its lessons on mindset and ownership still guide me, both personally and in my work with blockchain and digital assets.
I’m drawn to books that tell stories while delivering insight—those that teach through experience, not theory. I value clarity, honesty, and practical wisdom above all. Whether on finance, innovation, or growth, the books I return to are the ones that shift my perspective and inspire action.
Rich Dad Poor Dad remains a constant in my life. It’s not just a read—it’s a reference I live by. And as I write my own books, I carry its core message: the best ideas don’t just inform—they transform.
AuthorsWiki : Apart from writing, what are your other hobbies that you enjoy in your free time?
Anndy Lian : Outside of writing, I love spending time with people—catching up with friends, meeting new minds, and sharing meaningful conversations over food, laughter, and good company. For me, connection is energizing. Whether it’s a casual coffee, a late-night chat, or a business talk that turns personal, I always come away inspired by the exchange of ideas.
One of my favorite rituals? A durian session with close friends. There’s something special about gathering around the king of fruits—laughing at the smell, arguing over whether D24 or Musang King is better, and savoring every rich, creamy bite. It’s messy, bold, and unforgettable—much like life itself.
When I’m not writing or working, that’s probably where I’ll be: in good company, surrounded by thorny pods and even thornier debates. It’s my idea of perfect downtime—simple, joyful, and deeply human.
AuthorsWiki : Would you like to remain in the writing world in the future as well?
Anndy Lian : Yes, I plan to stay in the writing world for the long term. Writing is more than sharing knowledge—it’s how I think, connect, and contribute. Every book, article, or post is a chance to simplify complex ideas and inspire others in tech and society.
As long as new ideas emerge—from Web4 to digital identity—I’ll keep writing about them. I want to grow as a storyteller, reach more people, and help others communicate with clarity and courage.
Writing is a commitment I’ve made. As long as I have something meaningful to say, I’ll keep putting it on the page.

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It was a pleasure speaking with Anndy Lian, whose journey and reflections offer a meaningful glimpse into the creative life of a writer. We sincerely thank them for sharing their time and wisdom with the AuthorsWiki community.

 

Source: https://www.authorswiki.com/authors-interview/an-insightful-conversation-with-anndy-lian-from-singapore/

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

43 per cent chance of a Fed rate cut isn’t enough: Markets brace for a volatile December

43 per cent chance of a Fed rate cut isn’t enough: Markets brace for a volatile December

We are caught between the surging optimism of the AI revolution and the sobering reality of a Federal Reserve that shows no immediate signs of pivoting toward monetary easing. The dominant narrative of the past six months, a powerful rally in US equities that saw the S&P 500 climb a robust 21 per cent from April through October, has now run into a wall of technical resistance and macroeconomic uncertainty. This creates a delicate and precarious balance for investors, who must navigate a market that is technically stretched, fundamentally challenged by a lack of broad-based participation, and now facing its first major test of conviction since the rally began.

The S&P 500’s impressive run, which brought its year-to-date return to over 30 per cent by mid-November, has been almost exclusively driven by the so-called Magnificent Seven technology giants. Their valuations, trading at more than 30 times earnings, are a clear signal that the market’s gains have been concentrated in a narrow cohort of AI beneficiaries. This dynamic echoes the excesses of the dotcom era.

This concentration creates a fragile foundation. The index now struggles at its 50-day moving average, a key technical level that often acts as a barometer of short-term sentiment. A failure to break through this resistance, especially after such a strong run, suggests that much of the easy money has been made and that further upside will be limited and hard-fought. Historical seasonal trends support this cautious view, as the final two months of the year typically offer only marginal gains following such a powerful rally.

The single most important event for the market’s immediate trajectory will be Nvidia’s earnings report on November 19. As the undisputed leader in AI chips, Nvidia has become the canary in the coal mine for the entire AI investment thesis. Its guidance on future demand, data center growth, and gross margins will be scrutinised for any sign of a slowdown in the frenzied spending by hyperscalers and tech firms. A strong beat and bullish outlook could provide a final burst of momentum to push the S&P 500 to new highs before year-end. Conversely, any hint of a demand deceleration or a more challenging competitive landscape would likely trigger a broad-based selloff, as it would call into question the core engine of the market’s gains over the past year.

Compounding this technical and earnings-driven anxiety is the shifting landscape of monetary policy. The Federal Reserve’s stance has become a primary source of near-term worry. Markets had been pricing in a high probability of a rate cut at the December meeting, but recent strong economic data, particularly in the labour market, have forced a dramatic reassessment. The odds of a December rate cut have now fallen to just 43 per cent, a coin flip at best. This sudden withdrawal of expected liquidity is a major headwind for risk assets. The implications are clear in the bond market, where the 10-year Treasury yield has climbed to 4.148 per cent, and in the foreign exchange market, where the US Dollar Index has strengthened to 99.299. A strong dollar and high yields are a toxic combination for global growth and for expensive, long-duration assets like technology stocks.

This environment of Fed uncertainty makes a barbell investment strategy particularly prudent. On one end, investors should retain exposure to high-quality, large-cap growth companies that are genuine AI leaders with strong balance sheets and clear paths to monetisation. On the other end, they should anchor their portfolios with resilient, high-quality dividend payers. These companies, often found in sectors like consumer staples and utilities, provide a steady income stream and act as a ballast during periods of market volatility and economic doubt. This dual approach allows investors to participate in the ongoing AI narrative while simultaneously protecting their capital from the potential fallout of a hawkish Fed.

The contrast between the US and emerging markets is also becoming more stark. While US valuations are stretched and corporate profit margins are at or near peak levels, many emerging markets offer a more compelling long-term risk-reward profile. Within this group, China remains a complex and challenging investment case, plagued by issues of capital misallocation and intense domestic competition. However, a selective approach is warranted. Chinese technology firms with a strong international footprint and a capacity for overseas expansion present a unique opportunity, as do high-quality dividend-paying stocks that can provide stability in an otherwise volatile market. The key is to avoid broad, passive exposure and instead focus on specific, well-managed companies that can navigate the domestic headwinds and capitalise on global opportunities.

The cryptocurrency market, deeply intertwined with the Nasdaq and broader risk sentiment, has been a stark reflection of this growing macro anxiety. Over the past 24 hours, the market has fallen 0.62 per cent, continuing a brutal 12 per cent monthly decline. The sentiment, as measured by the Fear & Greed Index, has plunged into the zone of “Extreme Fear,” registering a level of 17. A cascade of forced selling has amplified this fear.

In just four hours, over US$200 million in leveraged long positions were liquidated, creating a vicious feedback loop where falling prices triggered more margin calls, which in turn forced more selling. The unwinding of excessive leverage has left the market technically in a state of disrepair. The total crypto market cap has now fallen below its 200-day exponential moving average of US$3.63 trillion, confirming a bearish market structure.

The primary catalyst for this crypto selloff has been the same macro uncertainty plaguing traditional markets: the fading hope for imminent Fed rate cuts. As the odds for a December cut dropped to 44 per cent, the correlation between Bitcoin and the Nasdaq surged to 0.86, confirming that crypto is once again being traded as a high-beta risk asset. This has been compounded by a significant outflow of institutional capital, with Bitcoin ETFs experiencing US$1.1 billion in weekly outflows and a sharp 33 per cent monthly decline in stablecoin reserves, indicating a severe contraction in available trading liquidity. The market’s fragility was further exposed by a piece of news from Japan, where a proposal to slash the punitive crypto tax rate from 55 per cent to a more reasonable 20 per cent actually triggered short-term profit-taking. Investors, wary of any regulatory change, used the news as an excuse to exit positions, demonstrating how any event can become a catalyst for selling in such a risk-averse environment.

The key question now for the cryptocurrency market is whether a major technical support zone can hold. Analysts are closely watching the US$88,000 to US$90,000 range for Bitcoin. A decisive break below this level could unleash a wave of further liquidations, potentially totaling US$5.5 billion in short-term positions.

The market’s fate, much like that of the S&P 500, is now hostage to the same macro forces. Until there is greater clarity on the Fed’s path or a major, definitive catalyst, both traditional and digital asset markets are likely to remain range-bound and volatile, caught in a tense stalemate between the powerful promise of a new technological era and the immediate, sobering reality of a central bank determined to keep a tight grip on its monetary policy.

 

Source: https://e27.co/43-per-cent-chance-of-a-fed-rate-cut-isnt-enough-markets-brace-for-a-volatile-december-20251117/

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

Interview with Anndy Lian- Discovering Singapore By Chance

Interview with Anndy Lian- Discovering Singapore By Chance

Tell us about yourself.
I’m Anndy Lian—a Singapore-born investor, author, and advisor at the intersection of technology, finance, and innovation. Over the years, I’ve worked closely with startups, governments, and global organizations on digital transformation, blockchain, and the future of Web3. I’ve served as Chairman of BigONE Exchange and advised on fintech strategies across Asia and beyond.

But beyond titles, I’m someone deeply curious about how technology reshapes lives. I believe complex ideas should be accessible to everyone—not locked behind jargon. That belief led me to write books that simplify the future: from Blockchain Revolution 2030 and NFT: From Zero to Hero, to my latest work, Discovering Singapore By Chance, co-authored with Jenny Zheng.

I’m also a public speaker, media contributor, and educator, passionate about empowering creators, entrepreneurs, and everyday people to understand and shape the digital world. Whether through writing, speaking, or advising, my mission is clear: to bridge the gap between innovation and understanding.

At heart, I’m a storyteller—using words, ideas, and action to make sense of change, one book, one conversation, one breakthrough at a time.

What inspired you to start writing, and how did you get started in the world of storytelling?
I started writing because I was frustrated—frustrated that powerful technologies like blockchain and NFTs were being discussed in ways that only experts seemed to understand. I saw people shutting down, switching off, because the language was too technical, too cold. I knew these innovations could change lives, but only if people could get them.

That sparked my journey into storytelling. I realized I didn’t need to be a journalist or a novelist to make a difference. I just needed to explain things clearly, honestly, and with heart.

It began with short articles and social media posts—breaking down blockchain concepts in simple terms. I wrote for the person who had no background in tech but wanted to learn. My goal wasn’t to impress, but to empower.

The response was immediate. People reached out saying, “Now I finally understand.” That feedback fueled me. I started speaking at events, and eventually, I co-authored my first book, Blockchain Revolution 2030, to reach even more readers.

From there, writing became a natural extension of my work and mission. With NFT: From Zero to Hero, I wanted to guide creators into the digital economy. And with Discovering Singapore By Chance, I used storytelling to explore identity, belonging, and the soul of a nation.

So what inspired me? A simple belief: knowledge should be shared, not hoarded. I got started not with a grand plan, but with a keyboard, a message, and a desire to make the complex feel human. And I haven’t stopped since.

What’s the most fun part of writing—plotting a twist, creating a quirky character, or something else entirely?
For Discovering Singapore By Chance, the most fun part of writing was capturing the small, human moments that reveal the soul of a place.

Since the book is a blend of personal discovery and cultural insight, the joy came not from plotting twists or inventing characters—but from reliving and sharing the quiet, unexpected moments that make Singapore feel alive: the hawker stall banter, the MRT conversations in three languages, the way tradition and innovation coexist on the same street.

It was especially rewarding to write from two perspectives—Jenny’s fresh, outsider curiosity and my own insider reflections—and see how they shaped each other. The “aha” moments weren’t in dramatic turns, but in realizations: how a simple act like queuing for food can reflect national values, or how urban planning quietly shapes daily life.

The most fun, honestly, was turning observations into stories that resonate—where a walk through a neighborhood becomes a window into identity, history, and belonging. In this book, the city itself is the main character, and uncovering its layers, one story at a time, was the greatest joy.

What’s the most unusual or quirky source of inspiration you’ve ever had for a story?
The most unusual source of inspiration for Discovering Singapore By Chance was a 20-cent packet of curry puffs from a hawker stall at 8 a.m.

One morning, I was sitting at a crowded coffee shop in Toa Payoh, eating a curry puff with my co-author Jenny. We were tired, slightly grumpy from the early hour, and just going through our notes. Then, an elderly uncle at the next table—who had been quietly observing us—leaned over and said, “You two write about Singapore? Then you must understand kiasu.”

That one word—kiasu, meaning fear of losing out—sparked a two-hour conversation about competition, survival, national mindset, and how a simple snack could reflect deeper cultural values. We recorded it (with his permission), and that impromptu chat became the foundation of a full chapter on Singapore’s psychology.

It wasn’t a conference, a policy paper, or a tech trend that inspired me—it was a random, warm-hearted local with a strong opinion and a love for curry puffs.

That moment reminded me: the best stories don’t come from grand events. They come from real life—over coffee, in hawker centres, in the middle of an unexpected conversation. For me, that’s where truth, humor, and insight truly meet.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors who are just starting their writing journey?
To aspiring authors just starting out, here’s my advice:

Start small, but start now. You don’t need a book deal, a big platform, or perfect conditions. Write one paragraph today. One page tomorrow. Momentum builds not from inspiration, but from action.

Write what you know—and what you’re curious about. Your unique perspective is your greatest strength. Whether it’s your career, your culture, or a technology you’re passionate about, your voice matters because it’s yours.

Don’t aim for perfect—aim for clear. Your first draft isn’t supposed to be flawless. It’s supposed to exist. Edit later. For now, get the ideas out. The magic happens in rewriting, not in waiting.

Use real life as your source. The best stories come from conversations, failures, observations, and questions. That moment on the MRT, a debate with a friend, a problem you solved—these are all seeds for powerful writing.

Share your work early. Post a short piece online. Read it to a friend. Get feedback. Writing is not just a solitary act—it’s a conversation. Let people respond before you’re “finished.”

Be consistent, not heroic. You don’t need to write 5,000 words in a day. Just 200, five days a week. Small steps lead to finished books.

And finally, finish something. So many writers begin but never complete. Push through doubt, silence your inner critic, and ship it—whether it’s a blog, an ebook, or your first manuscript.

Because the world doesn’t need more unpublished genius.
It needs your voice—clear, honest, and shared.

Write with purpose.
And keep going.


What role does research play in your writing process, especially when you’re exploring new genres or themes?
Research is the backbone of my writing—especially when exploring new technologies or cultural themes. I don’t write from opinion alone; I write from understanding.

When I worked on Blockchain Revolution 2030 or NFT: From Zero to Hero, research meant diving into technical whitepapers, studying real-world use cases, interviewing developers, and even testing platforms myself. I needed to know how things worked under the hood, not just the surface hype.

For Discovering Singapore By Chance, the research was different—it was human-centered. I walked through neighborhoods with fresh eyes, revisited history, spoke to community elders, and listened to expats and locals alike. Jenny and I collected stories, compared perspectives, and questioned assumptions. We didn’t just rely on data—we lived the moments.

Even for my upcoming book on Web4, I’m deep in research: studying AI behavior models, ambient computing trends, digital identity frameworks, and global policy shifts. I read academic papers, attend tech demos, and talk to engineers building the future.

But here’s my approach: I research not to overload the reader, but to simplify with confidence. My goal is never to show how much I know—but to make the complex feel clear and relatable.

So yes, research comes first. Then storytelling.
Because you can’t explain the future—unless you’ve first taken the time to understand it.

Can you share a favorite quote or line from one of your books that holds a special meaning to you?
One line from Discovering Singapore By Chance that holds deep meaning for me is:

“Singapore is not just a place; it’s a state of mind.”

This line captures the essence of what Jenny and I wanted to convey—not just the efficiency, cleanliness, or skyline, but the underlying mindset that makes Singapore unique: discipline balanced with ambition, diversity woven into unity, and a constant drive to reinvent despite size or odds.

To me, this quote reflects how a nation’s identity can transcend geography. It’s about resilience, pragmatism, and the quiet pride of building something lasting from almost nothing.

I return to this line often—because it’s not just about a country.
It’s about what people can achieve when they think ahead, work together, and believe in progress.
And that, to me, is timeless.

What is your favorite part of the writing process, and why?
My favorite part of the writing process is the moment an abstract idea becomes clear and real—when a complex thought finally clicks into a simple, powerful sentence.

It often happens during editing, not the first draft. I’ll go back to a messy paragraph—something I spoke into my phone or scribbled in a notebook—and suddenly, the right words fall into place. That’s when the magic happens: when something that felt confusing or overwhelming becomes understandable, even inspiring.

I love this part because I know that once I’ve made it clear to myself, I can make it clear to others. That single sentence can become a turning point in a chapter, a quote someone remembers, or the insight that helps a reader finally “get” blockchain, NFTs, or what Singapore truly stands for.

It’s not about style or flair. It’s about clarity with purpose. And when I achieve that, I feel like I’ve done my job—not just as a writer, but as a guide, helping others see the future a little more clearly than they did before.

How do you approach character development? Are there any real-life influences in your characters?
Since I write nonfiction, my “characters” are not invented—they are real people, including myself, my co-author, and the individuals we meet along the way. In Discovering Singapore By Chance, the development of these voices is intentional and deeply personal.

My own role in the book is not as a fictional character, but as an insider—someone born and raised in Singapore, shaped by its systems, culture, and unspoken rules. I reflect on my assumptions, biases, and emotional connections to the country, revealing a more vulnerable, thoughtful side of myself than people might expect from a tech and finance commentator.

Jenny Zheng, my co-author, serves as the curious outsider—her journey of discovering Singapore mirrors that of many global readers. Her observations, questions, and emotional responses are all authentic, drawn directly from her lived experience. Together, our dialogue becomes a kind of dual narrative—one rooted in belonging, the other in discovery.

Beyond us, the “characters” include everyday people we encountered: a hawker stall uncle with sharp opinions on national identity, a young artist blending heritage with digital tools, or a policymaker quietly shaping the city’s future. These voices are real, lightly anonymized for privacy, but their insights are preserved with care.

So my approach to “character development” is about truthful representation—not crafting personalities, but listening deeply, reflecting honestly, and showing how real experiences can illuminate larger truths. The most powerful stories, I’ve learned, don’t come from imagination alone—they come from paying attention.

What’s your favorite “oops” moment from writing—those happy accidents that turned into something wonderful?
One of my favorite “oops” moments happened while writing Discovering Singapore By Chance.

Jenny and I were working on a chapter about cultural identity, and I had written a serious, data-heavy section on Singapore’s multilingual policies. It was accurate—but dry. Lifeless. As I read it aloud during editing, even I was bored.

Frustrated, I vented in a voice note: “Honestly, the real language of Singapore isn’t English, Mandarin, Malay, or Tamil—it’s code-switching, sarcasm, and food.” I wasn’t planning to use it. I was just ranting.

But when Jenny heard the playback, she said, “That’s going in the book.”

We turned that offhand comment into a full section—“The Real Languages of Singapore”—where we explored how Singaporeans communicate not through official policy, but through humor, food metaphors, and seamless switching between dialects and tones depending on who we’re with. It became one of the most relatable, human chapters in the book.

That “oops” moment taught me something important: the best writing often comes from letting go of perfection and embracing honesty. If I hadn’t made a mistake in tone, gotten frustrated, and spoken from the heart, we would’ve missed one of the book’s most authentic insights.

Now, I welcome the glitches, the rants, the accidental lines. Because sometimes, the truth slips out when you’re not trying to sound smart—just real.

Have any of your characters ever “taken over” a scene and surprised you with where they went?
Since I write nonfiction, my characters aren’t fictional—they’re real people, including myself and my co-author Jenny Zheng. But yes, there were moments when someone’s words or actions shifted the entire direction of a scene in a way I never expected.

One powerful example was during an interview with a third-generation hawker in Geylang. We went in to talk about food heritage, but he surprised us by turning the conversation toward loneliness, legacy, and fear of failure. He shared how his son didn’t want to take over the stall—not because he disliked the work, but because “it’s invisible work. No one sees you, even when they’re eating your food.”

That raw honesty wasn’t in our plan. But his voice, his emotion, took over the moment. We rewrote the entire section around the idea of invisible labor—how Singapore runs on people who rarely get recognition. That scene ended up connecting to bigger themes: national identity, value, and what we choose to celebrate.

Even I surprised myself. In responding to him, I opened up about my own fears—of being forgotten, of building things that might not last. That vulnerability wasn’t scripted. It just happened.

So while no fictional character has “taken over” a scene, real people, speaking truthfully, absolutely have. And that’s the beauty of writing nonfiction: you show up to tell one story, but life hands you a deeper one. You just have to be quiet, listen, and let them lead.

 

Source: https://mybookplace.net/interview-with-anndy-lian/

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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