Tag Archives: Singapore

Anndy Lian’s New Book- Discovering Singapore By Chance

Anndy Lian’s New Book- Discovering Singapore By Chance

When a canceled flight detours an American traveler to Singapore, what begins as a brief stopover evolves into a three-year odyssey of discovery. Blending personal narrative with incisive analysis, Discovering Singapore By Chance peels back the veneer of this enigmatic city-state to reveal the systems, values, and people that transformed a resource-poor island into a global beacon of prosperity, harmony, and innovation.

Through intimate encounters, from morning coffee rituals with Chinatown vendors to conversations with policymakers and tech entrepreneurs, the book explores how a nation built on compromise and long-term vision became a masterclass in multiculturalism, urban design, and pragmatic governance.

Readers will uncover:

  • A Political Paradox: How Singapore’s “soft authoritarianism” fosters stability and efficiency while navigating the tensions between collective progress and individual freedoms.
  • Economic Reinvention: The story of a trading post turned financial hub, where government strategy and private enterprise dance in constant adaptation.
  • Cultural Alchemy: How ethnic diversity thrives not through separation, but through daily, lived integration—from HDB housing policies to hybrid cuisines and multilingual conversations.
  • Urban Innovation: The hidden engineering behind Singapore’s seamless infrastructure, green spaces, and “Smart Nation” ambitions.

Part travelogue, part societal deep-dive, this book challenges assumptions about what makes a nation successful. As the American visitor transitions from curious tourist to adopted resident, the narrative grapples with Singapore’s contradictions: a place both meticulously planned and organically evolving, efficient yet human, globally connected yet fiercely self-defined.

For readers fascinated by governance, urbanism, or cross-cultural understanding, Discovering Singapore By Chance offers not just a portrait of a nation, but a lens to reimagine what societies can achieve when pragmatism meets purpose.

“Singapore is not just a place; it’s a state of mind.”- Authors, Jenny Zheng & Anndy Lian

About the Authors:

Jenny Zheng is a global citizen whose journey, from China to South Korea to Singapore, has shaped her unique lens as an outsider falling unexpectedly in love with Singapore. Her perspective as a newcomer, navigating the city-state’s complexities with fresh eyes, provides the narrative heart of this book. A passionate observer of cultural fusion and human adaptability, Jenny’s storytelling bridges the gap between Singapore’s polished surface and the layered realities that make it a living laboratory of modern society.

Anndy Lian is an investor and technology advisor with over two decades of experience at the intersection of finance, governance, and digital transformation. A trusted consultant to listed companies and government leaders, he has witnessed how Singapore is shaped into a global hub for innovation and policy excellence. Born and raised in Singapore, Anndy brings an insider’s perspective to the nation’s political, economic, and social systems, offering readers a nuanced understanding of how Singapore’s “impossible” success was engineered.

 

Find out more on:

Amazon Books: https://www.amazon.com/Discovering-Singapore-Chance-Personal-Discovery-ebook/dp/B0FGHZVRHQ?ref_=ast_author_dp

Google Books: https://www.google.com.sg/books/edition/Discovering_Singapore_By_Chance/68FqEQAAQBAJ?hl=en&gbpv=1&dq=anndy+lian+discovering+singapore+by+chance&printsec=frontcover

 

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

CNA Explains: Singapore’s tightened crypto licensing rules – ‘closing the door’ or ‘raising the bar’?

CNA Explains: Singapore’s tightened crypto licensing rules – ‘closing the door’ or ‘raising the bar’?

SINGAPORE: The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has moved to tighten its regulation of unlicensed cryptocurrency firms operating in the country.

Digital token service providers based in Singapore that only serve overseas markets will need to be licensed by Jun 30 – or they’ll have to suspend or cease their unregulated activities here.

Why is MAS doing this?

Experts told CNA the authority was closing a loophole in the industry.

“It’s a step towards consistency,” said intergovernmental blockchain advisor Anndy Lian, adding that ensuring digital token service providers meet the same standards could bolster trust.

Prior to the regulation, providers targeting overseas markets could sidestep licensing requirements and exploit “lighter oversight” while operating from Singapore, he noted.

“This move levels the playing field and likely reflects pressure to align with global anti-money laundering efforts,” said Mr Lian.

Mr Adrian Ang, a partner at Allen & Gledhill’s financial services department, added that it was necessary to support standards set by the global money laundering and terrorist financing watchdog, the Financial Action Task Force.

“Without regulation, the anonymity, speed and cross-border nature of their activities make this sector highly vulnerable to criminal abuse,” he said.

How will firms be affected?

As of Jun 19, MAS has granted digital payment token licences to 33 institutions, including major players like Coinbase and OKX.

While unlicensed digital payment token services can still apply for a local license, MAS has said that it has “set the bar high” and will “generally not issue” one.

Bitget and Bybit are among the top ten exchange operators by volume that do not have a Singapore licence.

A Bloomberg report said Bitget will relocate staff to jurisdictions such as Dubai and Hong Kong, and that Bybit has plans to follow suit.

But experts pointed out that it is the smaller firms that will feel the heat.

While larger firms have in-house legal and compliance departments and experience in dealing with licensing frameworks, smaller and mid-sized players face an “uphill task,” said Mr Mike Chiam, a fintech lawyer at Foxwood LLC.

“Many of them relied on operating from Singapore under a ‘non-retail, overseas-only’ assumption. That assumption no longer holds,” he said.

For these firms – which include unlicensed crypto exchanges, over-the-counter brokers and decentralised finance projects targeting overseas markets – compliance costs, legal restructuring or a complete shutdown are on the table, he added.

Mr Lian, who knows of many small firms trying to shift out of Singapore since early June, agreed that added compliance costs and processes weigh heavily on these.

“I’ve seen startups struggle with similar red tape elsewhere, and it risks pushing innovation to less regulated regions if not handled carefully,” he said.

What about employees?

Mr Chiam said a common question he’s had to deal with relates to whether employees whose job scope involves dealing with digital tokens must relocate.

Based on his law firm’s understanding from employees’ enquiries, it has found that such workers are generally not affected by MAS’ stricter rules, he said.

Practically speaking, employees working for digital token firms do not have to relocate – or at least, that is not the legislative intention, Mr Chiam added.

“On a positive note, employees appear to be interested in knowing how to better comply with regulations and keep abreast of such updates – overall a heightened awareness of the regulatory stance,” he said.

An employee from MEXC, who requested anonymity, observed that other centralised exchanges have introduced additional know your customer (KYC) checks and anti-money laundering (AML) frameworks.

These policies verify customers’ identities, to prevent illicit activity and to comply with global regulations.

Although MEXC does not have a local licence, the employee said his colleagues in Singapore have not been significantly affected.

“There are some observed changes within the compliance and legal teams, but for the most part, it is still business as usual,” he said.

An employee from Bitget, who also requested anonymity, claimed that about ten members of the customer service team were laid off earlier in June.

CNA has reached out to MEXC and Bitget for comment, as well as other firms listed in Singapore but not licensed by MAS.

What does it mean for the industry here?

Ms Angela Ang, who heads Asia Pacific’s policy and strategic partnerships at blockchain intelligence company TRM Labs, said that while Singapore’s approach to crypto may not resonate with everyone, it has been “very consistent”.

“Firms that are not operating this specific kind of business model should not be unduly alarmed. Crypto businesses can still obtain licences here if they are prepared to have a substantive presence, including servicing Singapore customers,” said Ms Ang.

She added that the industry has had “significant runway” to make preparations since the Financial Services and Markets Act was passed in April 2022.

In a media release on Jun 6, MAS also said its position has been “consistently communicated” for a few years since its first response to public consultation issued in February 2022.

It added that based on available information, it was aware of a “very small number” of providers affected.

Allen & Gledhill’s Mr Ang agreed that most crypto firms here should have already undertaken licensing considerations prior to commencing their business, as licensing requirements have been “in force for many years.”

Ultimately, the move should not be misread as Singapore turning hostile to digital assets, Mr Chiam said.

“Instead, the law is making it clear: If your fintech wants to use Singapore’s framework and reputation, you must meet Singapore’s standards,” he said.

“In that sense, Singapore isn’t closing the door – it’s raising the bar.”

 

Source: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/crypto-licensing-mas-cna-explains-5186446

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

Singapore’s Startup Ecosystem: A Global Model for Innovation and Growth

Singapore’s Startup Ecosystem: A Global Model for Innovation and Growth

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, representatives from over ten countries gathered to discuss strategies for fostering startup ecosystems.

I had the opportunity to deliver a session titled “Singapore’s Model for Startup Ecosystem,” sharing how Singapore evolved from a colonial trading post into a global innovation hub through strategic policies, robust infrastructure, and international collaborations. This article summarizes the key points from my presentation, offering an objective overview of Singapore’s startup success story.

Singapore’s Journey to a Global Innovation Hub

In my remarks, I traced Singapore’s transformation from a 19th-century trading port to a leading startup hub. This shift was driven by deliberate government policies, a strategic location in Asia, and a commitment to innovation. With a startup ecosystem valued at approximately SGD 1.44 billion, Singapore leverages its multilingual workforce and robust financial sector to attract entrepreneurs and investors. “Singapore’s strength lies in its location, diverse talent pool, and strong financial infrastructure,” I noted during the session.

The city-state hosts over 4,500 tech startups, more than 400 venture capital (VC) firms, and 240 incubators and accelerators, creating a comprehensive ecosystem that supports startups at every stage. Nearly all major global VC funds have a presence in Singapore, either through Asian offices or dedicated subdivisions, particularly in sectors like fintech, healthcare, and deep tech.

Government Initiatives: The Foundation of Success

Singapore’s government plays a central role in its startup ecosystem through initiatives like Startup SG and the Smart Nation vision. Startup SG, launched in 2017, provides mentorship, grants, and networking opportunities to foster entrepreneurial growth. “The networking opportunities provided by Startup SG are critical for startup success,” I emphasized, highlighting how these connections have driven achievements in the VC space. Since 2015, the government has invested over SGD 1 billion in startup programs, supporting more than 2,000 startups annually across sectors like fintech, healthcare, and sustainability. The Startup SG Founder Grant offers 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. Ninja Van, a logistics provider, scaled rapidly with SG Equity funding, serving as a prime example of these initiatives’ impact.

The Smart Nation initiative integrates technology into areas like the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI). Singapore’s small size enables rapid implementation of innovative solutions, making it an ideal testbed for smart urban technologies. As I noted, “Singapore’s compact scale allows for quick testing and iteration of new ideas,” positioning the city-state as a leader in smart urban living.

Historical Milestones and Growth Phases

My presentation provided a historical perspective on Singapore’s commitment to innovation. The National Computer Board (NCB), established in 1981, laid the groundwork for technological development, followed by companies like Creative Technology, a pioneer in 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 strengthened research and development (R&D), supporting innovators like Hyflux, a leader in water refinery technology

From 2010 to 2015, startup funding grew from USD 80 million to USD 1 billion, driven by government support and global interest. Lazada, founded in 2012, capitalized on Singapore’s logistical advantages to become a leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia. By 2017, the ecosystem’s value reached USD 11 billion, with companies like Grab achieving unicorn status in Singapore and 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 collaborations strengthens its ecosystem. Over 150,000 foreign professionals work in Singapore, with 29% in the tech sector, contributing diverse expertise. Programs like the TechPass (launched in 2021) and EntrePass offer visas to top talent and entrepreneurs, with approval rates for tech roles reaching 90%. “Talent is a cornerstone of Singapore’s economic growth,” I observed, highlighting the government’s strategic focus on human capital.

Collaborations 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 facilitated cross-border exchanges, while partnerships with the World Bank, DBS, and the United Nations on fintech projects, as well as collaborations with France on autonomous systems, underscore Singapore’s global integration.

Singapore’s pro-business regulatory framework is a key enabler of its startup ecosystem. Company registration can be completed in one to two days, and the city-state ranks highly for its strong legal framework and business-friendly policies. The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) supports innovation through a fintech sandbox, allowing startups to test solutions with regulatory guidance. Compliance workshops and a trusted reputation ensure accountability while fostering innovation, making Singapore a preferred destination for crypto and fintech companies.

Success Stories and Future Outlook

My presentation highlighted success stories that illustrate Singapore’s impact. Carousell, a marketplace platform, grew from a modest valuation to unicorn status with support from Singaporean funds and government initiatives. ShopBack’s cashback model and Grab’s expansion into financial services demonstrate 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, fintech, healthcare, deep tech, AI, cryptocurrency, and green tech are poised for growth. 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. As I concluded, “Singapore’s ecosystem empowers entrepreneurs to turn bold ideas into reality,” encouraging global innovators to explore its opportunities.

Conclusion

My session at the Mongolia event outlined Singapore’s startup ecosystem, driven by strategic government initiatives, a robust financial sector, and global collaboration. From its historical roots to its 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 focus on emerging technologies, Singapore continues to serve as a launchpad for startups aiming to make a global impact.

 

Source: https://news.shib.io/2025/06/06/singapores-startup-ecosystem-a-global-model-for-innovation-and-growth/

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