Market wrap: Consumer confidence drops, markets rise, Bitcoin ETF soars

Market wrap: Consumer confidence drops, markets rise, Bitcoin ETF soars

US President Donald Trump’s softened stance on auto tariffs has led to persistent concerns over weakening US economic data. Reports that Trump signed orders to mitigate the impact of his auto tariffs through credits and relief on material levies, combined with hints from his trade team about a potential deal with a foreign trading partner, have bolstered risk sentiment.

This development has provided a temporary reprieve from the intense market volatility that has characterised much of April 2025, driven by fears of escalating trade wars. However, softer-than-expected US economic releases, including a widening trade deficit and declining consumer confidence, underscore the fragility of the current recovery.

As investors digest these mixed signals, major asset classes—from equities to bonds, commodities, and cryptocurrencies—are reflecting a market caught between hope for de-escalation and apprehension about economic slowdown. With key data releases like the US first-quarter GDP and China’s April manufacturing PMI on the horizon, the coming days promise to be pivotal for global markets.

The US equity markets closed Tuesday’s session with modest gains, reflecting the tentative optimism surrounding Trump’s tariff adjustments. The S&P 500 rose 0.58 per cent, the Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 0.75 per cent, and the Nasdaq advanced 0.55 per cent.

These gains, while modest, mark a shift from the sharp sell-offs earlier in the month, when Trump’s aggressive tariff announcements sent the S&P 500 and Nasdaq into correction territory, with declines exceeding 10 per cent from their February highs. The Dow, less exposed to tariff-sensitive tech sectors, has been relatively resilient but still faced significant pressure, dropping nearly 12 per cent since Trump’s inauguration.

The market’s reaction to the tariff relief suggests investors are cautiously pricing in the possibility of negotiated trade deals, particularly after Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent signalled openness to discussions with foreign partners. However, the persistence of a 10 per cent baseline tariff on most imports and heightened duties on China (now at 145 per cent) keeps uncertainty alive, tempering the rally’s momentum.

Tuesday’s data releases painted a concerning picture. The US trade deficit widened to US$162.0 billion in March, up US$14.1 billion from February’s US$147.8 billion, reflecting the disruptive impact of tariffs on global trade flows. This widening gap, coupled with retaliatory tariffs from major partners like China (84 per cent on US goods) and the European Union, raises fears of a prolonged trade war that could further erode US export competitiveness.

Meanwhile, the Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index fell to 86.0 in April, marking its fifth consecutive monthly decline and hitting the lowest level since January 2021. This persistent erosion of consumer sentiment, driven by tariff-induced price increases and economic uncertainty, signals potential headwinds for consumer spending, a critical driver of US GDP.

Economists at Goldman Sachs have raised their recession probability to 35 per cent, citing tariffs as a significant drag on growth. These weak indicators contrast sharply with the market’s upbeat response to tariff relief, highlighting the disconnect between short-term sentiment and longer-term economic risks.

Fixed-income markets also reflected this cautious mood. The 10-year Treasury yield retreated 4 basis points to 4.17 per cent, and the 2-year yield fell 2 basis points to 3.65 per cent. This pullback follows a volatile period where yields surged to 4.4 per cent amid tariff-driven inflation fears. The decline in yields suggests investors are seeking safety in bonds, driven by concerns over economic slowdown and the potential for foreign governments to sell off Treasury holdings in retaliation for US tariffs.

The US Dollar Index, however, edged up 0.23 per cent to 99.24, supported by relative strength against a basket of currencies despite a broader weakening trend in 2025. The dollar’s resilience may reflect lingering confidence in US economic fundamentals, though its year-to-date decline of over five per cent underscores investor unease about tariff-induced disruptions.

Commodities markets, meanwhile, faced downward pressure. Gold, a traditional safe-haven asset, tumbled 0.8 per cent to US$3,315 per ounce as signs of easing US-China trade tensions reduced demand for hedges against uncertainty. Despite this dip, gold remains up 19 per cent in 2025, buoyed by earlier tariff-driven volatility that pushed prices above US$3,160 in March. Brent crude slid 2.44 per cent to US$64 per barrel, reflecting dual pressures: investor anticipation of an OPEC+ production increase and fears that tariffs will dampen global fuel demand.

The oil market’s decline, with Brent hitting a nearly four-year low earlier this month, underscores the broader economic concerns weighing energy markets. These commodity movements highlight the market’s sensitivity to policy shifts and macroeconomic trends, with oil particularly vulnerable to global growth expectations.

In Asia, the MSCI Asia ex-Japan index rose 0.4 per cent on Tuesday, and most Asian equity indices opened higher on Wednesday, buoyed by the US market’s gains and hopes of de-escalating trade tensions. However, the region remains on edge, with Japan’s Nikkei 225 down 10 per cent for the first quarter and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng suffering a 13.2 per cent single-day drop earlier in April, its worst since 1997.

Constrained by Trump’s escalating tariffs, China’s markets have shown muted gains, with Goldman Sachs lowering its 2025 GDP growth forecast for China to four per cent from 4.5 per cent due to trade headwinds. The upcoming release of China’s April manufacturing PMI will be closely watched for signs of resilience or further slowdown in the world’s second-largest economy.

The cryptocurrency market, meanwhile, offered a counterpoint to the broader caution. Bitcoin rose one per cent on Tuesday, approaching US$95,500 before encountering resistance. This uptick follows a volatile period where Bitcoin plunged 10 per cent to below US$78,000 after Trump’s initial tariff announcements. The current momentum, driven by anticipation of Trump’s trade deal rhetoric and his upcoming Michigan rally, suggests Bitcoin is benefiting from its perceived role as a hedge against policy uncertainty.

Posts on X have noted safe-haven flows into Bitcoin alongside gold during peak trade fears. BlackRock’s IBIT ETF set a record with US$970 million in single-day inflows, part of an eight-day buying spree in Bitcoin ETFs that underscores robust institutional demand. However, large redemptions from Fidelity and Ark Invest tempered aggregate deposits to US$591 million, indicating mixed sentiment among investors.

Altcoins outperformed Bitcoin, with Ethereum and Cardano gaining two per centeach, signalling a higher risk appetite among crypto investors. This divergence suggests a shift toward speculative assets, possibly driven by expectations of economic stimulus in response to weakening US labor and consumer data.

Job openings fell to 7.2 million in March, below the 7.5 million forecast, and consumer confidence hit a four-year low, conditions that historically precede Bitcoin rallies. Some analysts project Bitcoin could reach US$140,000 by October 2025 if stimulus measures materialise, though such forecasts hinge on unpredictable policy outcomes.

Looking ahead, the first reading of the US first-quarter GDP and China’s manufacturing PMI will be critical in shaping market direction. A weaker-than-expected GDP could amplify recession fears, potentially triggering further safe-haven flows into bonds and cryptocurrencies.

Conversely, a robust PMI from China could bolster Asian equities and ease concerns about global growth. Trump’s Michigan rally, where he is expected to tout his administration’s first 100 days, will also draw scrutiny for clues on trade policy and Bitcoin alignment, given his cabinet’s recent pro-crypto signals.

In my view, the market’s optimism is fragile, resting on the hope that Trump’s tariff relief and potential trade deals will avert a deeper economic downturn.

The persistent weakness in US economic data and the ongoing trade frictions with China suggest that volatility is far from over. Investors are right to remain cautious, as the interplay of tariffs, inflation, and consumer sentiment could tip the US economy into recession if not carefully managed.

The cryptocurrency market’s resilience, particularly Bitcoin and altcoins, offers a speculative outlet for risk-tolerant investors, but it is not immune to broader economic shocks. I see the coming weeks as a critical juncture, where clarity on Trump’s trade strategy and the trajectory of global growth will determine whether markets can sustain this tentative recovery or succumb to deeper uncertainty.

 

Source: https://e27.co/market-wrap-consumer-confidence-drops-markets-rise-bitcoin-etf-soars-20250430/

 

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”.

j j j

A cautious dance in global markets: Navigating uncertainty and opportunity

A cautious dance in global markets: Navigating uncertainty and opportunity

The interplay of macroeconomic indicators, geopolitical tensions, and the burgeoning cryptocurrency market paints a picture of a world teetering between cautious optimism and underlying anxiety. The recent market wrap provides a snapshot of this delicate balance, with equities, bonds, commodities, and cryptocurrencies responding to a confluence of economic data, policy expectations, and investor sentiment.

Below, I offer my take on what they mean for investors and the broader economic outlook.

The US equity market’s reaction to the Dallas Fed Manufacturing survey was a stark reminder of the real-world impact of policy decisions. The survey’s significantly weaker-than-expected results, coupled with respondents’ vivid descriptions of tariff-induced turmoil as “chaos” and “insanity,” underscore the disruption caused by escalating trade tensions, particularly between the US and China.

Tariffs, often wielded as a tool for economic leverage, can create ripple effects that destabilise supply chains, increase costs, and erode business confidence. The initial decline in equities reflects this unease, as manufacturers grapple with uncertainty that could hamper investment and production. However, the S&P 500’s ability to rebound and close nearly unchanged suggests a resilience in investor sentiment, likely buoyed by anticipation of upcoming corporate earnings reports.

From my vantage point, this recovery highlights a market that is not yet ready to capitulate to pessimism, instead clinging to hopes that strong corporate performance could offset macroeconomic headwinds. Yet, the volatility serves as a warning: investors must remain vigilant, as the tariff saga is far from resolved.

Turning to fixed income, the retreat in Treasury yields— with the 10-year dropping 5 basis points to 4.21 per cent and the two year falling seven basis points to 3.68 per cent — signals a market recalibrating its expectations for growth and inflation. Yields have been a focal point for investors, reflecting the market’s assessment of future monetary policy and economic health.

The decline in yields could indicate a flight to safety amid trade war concerns or a reassessment of inflation expectations in light of weakening manufacturing data. From my perspective, this pullback in yields is a healthy correction rather than a cause for alarm.

It suggests that bond markets are pricing in a more cautious outlook, which could provide a buffer against equity market volatility. However, with the US economic docket set to intensify, including key data releases and corporate earnings, yields could face upward pressure if growth indicators surprise to the upside.

The US Dollar Index’s decline by 0.53 per cent to 98.94 reflects a softening in demand for the greenback, possibly driven by the same trade-related uncertainties weighing on equities and yields. A weaker dollar often supports commodity prices, and indeed, gold saw a modest 0.6 per cent gain as bargain-hunters stepped in after an earlier 1.8 per cent drop.

Gold’s role as a safe-haven asset remains intact, and its resilience in the face of a stronger dollar earlier in the session underscores its appeal during times of uncertainty. From my perspective, gold’s performance is a barometer of investor anxiety, and its ability to attract buyers suggests that not all is well beneath the surface of the market’s calm exterior.

Meanwhile, Brent crude’s 1.51 per cent slide to US$66 per barrel is a direct consequence of the US-China trade war’s impact on global demand. As trade tensions dampen economic activity, oil prices bear the brunt, reflecting a world grappling with slower growth prospects. This decline in oil prices could have broader implications, potentially easing inflationary pressures and signalling weaker industrial activity—a double-edged sword for the global economy.

Across the Pacific, the MSCI Asia ex-Japan index’s 0.5 per cent rise, led by gains in India’s NSE Nifty 50, offers a glimmer of optimism. Asian markets have been navigating their own set of challenges, from China’s economic slowdown to regional trade disruptions. Today’s mixed performance in early trading sessions suggests a region caught between resilience and caution.

India’s outperformance is noteworthy, potentially driven by domestic reforms and a relatively insulated economy compared to export-heavy peers like China. From my perspective, Asia’s mixed signals reflect a broader global theme: pockets of strength exist, but they are tempered by systemic risks that require careful monitoring.

The cryptocurrency market, meanwhile, is a fascinating microcosm of speculative fervour and institutional maturation. Bitcoin’s bounce above US$95,490, driven by anticipation of former President Trump’s 100-day speech, highlights the crypto market’s sensitivity to policy signals. Trump’s controversial calls for rate cuts and his focus on cryptocurrency-related policies, including the Bitcoin strategic reserve proposal, have injected volatility into the market.

Also Read:

Nikkei soars, gold shines, and Bitcoin reserves drop: What’s driving global markets?

Nikkei soars, gold shines, and Bitcoin reserves drop: What’s driving global markets?

The movement of US$4 billion worth of Bitcoin from exchanges suggests investors are positioning for significant developments, either by securing their holdings in private wallets or preparing for potential price swings. From my perspective, Bitcoin’s price action reflects a market that is both speculative and increasingly mainstream.

Institutional players’ involvement and the prospect of a national Bitcoin reserve elevate cryptocurrencies from fringe assets to serious considerations in global finance. However, the lack of definitive updates on the reserve proposal keeps the market in a state of limbo, where hope and uncertainty coexist.

Ethereum’s performance adds another layer to the crypto narrative. Despite a two per cent drop on Monday, its recent gains—fueled by whale optimism and institutional buying—point to a maturing market. Data from CryptoQuant reveals that Ethereum whales, holding between 10,000 and 100,000 ETH, increased their balances by a net 149,000 ETH over the past week. This shift from distribution to accumulation suggests that large holders are betting on a recovery, with US$2,000 emerging as a critical psychological and technical level.

Reclaiming this level could solidify bullish sentiment, but it also carries risks, as some whales may sell to break even, triggering downward pressure. The US$183 million in net inflows into Ethereum investment products, particularly US spot Ether ETFs, further underscores institutional confidence. The end of an eight-week outflow streak is a significant milestone, signalling that Ethereum is regaining favour among professional investors.

From my perspective, Ethereum’s on-chain metrics—such as the slowing Network Realised Profit/Loss—suggest a cautiously optimistic market, with investors holding out for higher prices rather than locking in gains prematurely. This dynamic positions Ethereum as a bellwether for the broader altcoin market, where sentiment can shift rapidly based on price action and external catalysts.

Looking ahead, the US economic docket and Eurozone confidence numbers will be critical in shaping market direction. US equity index futures pointing to a higher open suggest investors are willing to bet on positive surprises, but the shadow of trade tensions looms. From my perspective, the markets are at a crossroads.

On one hand, corporate earnings and economic data could provide the catalyst for a sustained rally, particularly if they defy the gloom of recent manufacturing surveys. On the other hand, the unresolved US-China trade war and its cascading effects on global demand could keep risk sentiment in check.

With its blend of speculative exuberance and institutional adoption, the cryptocurrency market adds a wildcard to the equation. Bitcoin and Ethereum’s trajectories will depend on macroeconomic factors and policy clarity—a reminder that in today’s interconnected world, no asset class operates in isolation.

In conclusion, the current market environment is cautious navigation, where opportunities coexist with significant risks. Equities are buoyed by earnings hopes but tempered by trade fears. Bonds reflect a recalibration of growth expectations, while commodities like gold and oil mirror broader economic anxieties. Cryptocurrencies, meanwhile, embody the tension between speculation and institutionalisation.

From my perspective, investors must adopt a balanced approach, leveraging data-driven insights while remaining agile in the face of uncertainty. The road ahead is fraught with challenges, but it is also ripe with potential for those who can read the signals and act decisively. As the global economy continues to evolve, the ability to adapt will be the defining trait of successful market participants.

 

Source: https://e27.co/a-cautious-dance-in-global-markets-navigating-uncertainty-and-opportunity-20250429/

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”.

j j j

Nikkei soars, gold shines, and Bitcoin reserves drop: What’s driving global markets?

Nikkei soars, gold shines, and Bitcoin reserves drop: What’s driving global markets?

Reports of progress in trade negotiations, coupled with dovish signals from Federal Reserve officials, have bolstered risk sentiment, sending equity markets higher and tempering yields on US Treasuries. At the same time, the cryptocurrency market, particularly Bitcoin, is experiencing a transformative moment as institutional adoption accelerates and exchange reserves dwindle to historic lows.

Observing these developments, I see a world at a crossroads—where traditional finance is grappling with geopolitical and monetary uncertainties, while the digital asset space is carving out a new paradigm of value storage and investment. This market wrap dives into these dynamics, offering my perspective on what they mean for investors, policymakers, and the broader global economy.

Let’s start with the equity markets, which a wave of positive sentiment has buoyed. The MSCI US index climbed 2.0 per cent, with the Information Technology sector leading the charge at a robust 3.5 per cent gain. Alphabet Inc., Google’s parent company, was a standout performer, surging 4.9 per cent in late trading after reporting earnings that surpassed analyst expectations.

This tech-driven rally underscores the sector’s resilience, even as macroeconomic uncertainties linger. Across the Pacific, Asian markets followed suit, with Japan’s Nikkei 225 jumping as much as 1.8 per cent. The yen’s decline, spurred by encouraging comments from US-Japan trade talks, added fuel to the rally. These gains reflect a broader market belief that trade tensions, particularly between the US and China, may be easing, though the picture is far from clear.

On the trade front, the narrative is mixed. President Trump’s assertion that his administration is engaged in talks with China has injected optimism into markets. However, Beijing’s denial of such negotiations and its demand for the revocation of unilateral US tariffs paint a more complex picture. This push-and-pull dynamic is emblematic of the broader US-China relationship, where rhetoric and reality often diverge.

The market’s reaction—evident in rising equity indices and a slight uptick in Brent crude prices (+0.7 per cent)—suggests that investors are betting on a de-escalation, even if only incremental. Yet, the risk of missteps remains high. A failure to bridge the gap between Washington and Beijing could reignite volatility, particularly in sectors like technology and energy that are sensitive to trade disruptions.

Monetary policy is another critical piece of the puzzle. Federal Reserve officials have signalled a willingness to cut interest rates sooner than previously anticipated, a move that has ripple effects across asset classes. US Treasury yields softened, with the 10-year yield dropping 6.6 basis points to 4.31 per cent and the 2-year yield falling 7.4 basis points to 3.80 per cent. This dovish tilt has weakened the US Dollar index by 0.5 per cent, while boosting gold prices (+1.9 per cent) above US$3,300 per ounce. Gold’s strength, underpinned by central bank buying and haven demand, reflects a market hedging against uncertainty.

As someone observing these trends, I believe the Fed’s openness to rate cuts signals a pragmatic response to slowing growth signals, but it also raises questions about the sustainability of the current economic expansion. Lower yields and a softer dollar could fuel further equity gains, but they also risk inflating asset bubbles in an already frothy market.

Amid this traditional financial backdrop, Bitcoin’s trajectory demands attention. The cryptocurrency has staged a remarkable recovery from a 30 per cent drop earlier this year, now trading steadily above US$93,000. What’s driving this resilience? A significant factor is the sharp decline in Bitcoin reserves on exchanges, which have fallen to 2.6 million BTC—the lowest level since November 2018. Since November 2024, exchanges have seen a net outflow of over 425,000 BTC, with public companies snapping up nearly 350,000 of those coins.

This trend, led by firms like Strategy, co-founded by Michael Saylor, is reshaping the Bitcoin market. Strategy alone has amassed 285,980 BTC since last November, with its latest purchase of 6,556 BTC announced in April 2025. Other players, such as Japan’s Metaplanet (holding 5,000 BTC with plans to double its stake) and Hong Kong’s HK Asia Holdings (raising US$8.35 million to bolster its reserves), are following suit.

This corporate accumulation is more than a footnote—it’s a paradigm shift. From my vantage point, it signals a growing acceptance of Bitcoin as a strategic asset, akin to gold or other stores of value. Companies are not just dabbling; they’re making calculated bets on Bitcoin’s long-term potential. The market impact is tangible: between April 19 and 23, 15,000 BTC left exchanges, coinciding with Bitcoin’s price breaching US$93,000.

This outflow suggests that investors, particularly institutions, are moving their holdings to cold storage for long-term investment rather than short-term trading. Such behavior is often interpreted as bullish, as it reduces the liquid supply available for selling pressure. Data from CryptoQuant reinforces this view, showing that long-term holders saw their realised market worth rise by US$26 billion in the first three weeks of April alone.

Institutional adoption is further evidenced by the surge in Bitcoin ETF inflows, with nearly US$1 billion pouring into US-based funds this week. ARK Invest’s bullish outlook, raising its 2030 Bitcoin price target to US$2.4 million, underscores the growing conviction that institutional money will drive the next leg of Bitcoin’s rally.

However, technical analysts caution that Bitcoin must hold above US$93,500 to maintain its upward momentum. A breach below this level could trigger a pullback, especially given the market’s sensitivity to macroeconomic shifts like Fed policy or trade developments.

Reflecting on these trends, I’m struck by the duality of the current market environment. On one hand, traditional markets are riding a wave of optimism fueled by trade hopes and dovish central bank signals. Equities are climbing, yields are softening, and gold is shining as a hedge. On the other hand, Bitcoin’s rise—driven by institutional adoption and shrinking exchange reserves—represents a parallel narrative of disruption.

I see Bitcoin’s ascent as a signal that the financial system is evolving. Corporations no longer view digital assets as speculative gambles but as strategic reserves, a hedge against inflation, and a bet on a decentralised future. Yet, risks abound. Bitcoin’s volatility, while tempered, remains a concern, and the broader market’s reliance on Fed policy and trade progress leaves it vulnerable to shocks.

Looking ahead, the interplay between these forces will shape the global economy. Risk assets like equities and oil could extend their gains if trade negotiations yield tangible progress. However, a breakdown in talks could send markets into a tailspin, boosting safe havens like gold and, potentially, Bitcoin.

The Fed’s next moves will be equally pivotal. Earlier rate cuts could sustain the equity rally but risk overheating markets, while a failure to act could choke off growth. For Bitcoin, the path seems clearer: institutional adoption is likely to continue, tightening supply and supporting prices. Yet, regulatory scrutiny, particularly in jurisdictions like the US and China, could pose headwinds.

In conclusion, the current market landscape is a tapestry of hope, uncertainty, and transformation. Traditional finance is navigating a delicate balance of trade and monetary policy, while Bitcoin is carving out a new role as a corporate treasury asset. I’m cautiously optimistic about the near-term outlook for risk assets but mindful of the fragility beneath the surface.

Bitcoin’s resilience, in particular, is a story of adaptation and conviction—one that may redefine how we think about value in the years to come. For now, investors would be wise to stay vigilant, balancing the allure of opportunity with the realities of risk.

 

Source: https://e27.co/nikkei-soars-gold-shines-and-bitcoin-reserves-drop-whats-driving-global-markets-20250425/

 

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”.

j j j