Podcast: Hard Truths by Vertex | Series 2 | Episode 1 - Unlocking the Trillion dollar SEA Startup Ecosystem - the Singapore's context with Carmen Yuen

Carmen YUEN | 24 Oct 2023

Thank you for your strong support for Hard Truths by Vertex podcast Series 1 - We are now back with Series 2!

What are the evolving trends in the Southeast Asia startup ecosystem? In this episode 1 of Hard Truths by Vertex podcast series 2, Carmen Yuen, General Partner at Vertex Ventures Southeast Asia and India, shares her journey from government-backed initiatives to becoming a key player and rare woman partner in the startup landscape. Get into the mind of a prominent investor and your questions answered - how to navigate this challenging economic and slow funding period? What are the best strategies going forward for your startup? Tune in for a conversation that delves into the heart of the startup world!

Tune in to HTBV Series 2 Episode 1 to find out!

IN THIS EPISODE

(00:00) Starting the Vertex Journey

(3:56) How has the Singapore ecosystem flourished?

(06:20) Is there a type of successful company in Singapore?

(08:32) What would be Vertex's investment strategy in Singapore?

(09:38) Hard truths to raising funds

(13:55) Is it the right time to start companies?

(16:02) Do companies learn from experience?

(18:26) Exit opportunities for SG companies

(22:09) Advice for female investors and entrepreneurs

Our Guest

Carmen Yuen

Carmen Yuen joined Vertex Ventures Singapore office in 2014. Her focus is in Singapore and Southeast Asia, leading investments and helping portfolio founders to grow their companies into regional and global champions.

Links

Notes and Full Transcript for Series 2 Episode 1

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Your Host

Elise Tan is the Director of Communications and Community at Vertex Ventures Southeast Asia and India. Prior to joining Vertex, she has had extensive experience in investor relations and partnership at global venture funds and accelerators with more than $100m in AUM. Elise also currently runs a Southeast Asia-based startup community of nearly 800 entrepreneurs called the Asia Startup network and actively supports their startup journey through panels, meet-ups, and mentoring programs.

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Vertex Ventures Southeast Asia & India is a pioneer in investing in tech start-ups in this region and has helped to build a number of unicorns. In this podcast, we seek to share and uncover the Hard Truth - raw, unfiltered insights and venture capital knowledge from across Southeast Asia and India. Tune in to learn from leading founders, innovators, venture capitalists, and industry experts in the region and to gain industry insights from those in the know.

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