IN FOCUS
In today’s newsletter, we look at:
- Angkas’ plans to take on Grab in PH’s ride-hailing scene
- How startups are helping airplanes offer greener flights
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Hi there,
A restaurateur once shared a piece of business advice that has stuck with me: “In a competitive market, you either find new ground or fight for the same scraps.”
That idea feels particularly relevant for the Philippines’ ride-hailing industry, where competition is ramping up.
Angkas, the country’s first motorcycle taxi startup, is no stranger to battles. Since it launched in 2016, the company has been shut down three times – twice due to regulatory hurdles. But now, it’s facing an even bigger threat: Grab.
With deep pockets and an established foothold in Southeast Asia, the super app is making a push into the Philippines’ two-wheeler space through its acquisition of Move It, a local player. Move It has been operating under Grab’s direction since 2023 and supported by an aggressive advertising campaign.
Rather than just playing defense, Angkas is going on the offensive. In this week’s Big Story, my colleague Elyssa explores how the company plans to take on its much larger rival and cement its place in the country’s motorcycle ride-hailing sector.
For one, the startup isn’t just sticking to motorcycle taxis. It’s looking to roll out its own four-wheeler service to compete directly with Grab. To fund these ambitions, Angkas is also preparing for a series B round.
Meanwhile, in this week’s Hot Take, I look at how startups are filling in different roles to help the aviation industry reduce its carbon footprint through the use of greener fuel.
– Glenn
BIG STORY
Angkas shifts gears as Grab vies for PH motorcycle taxi crown
Image credit: Made by Tech in Asia using Midjourney
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