This week, Bitcoin takes a step forward in Asia, China lifts its game console ban, Xiaomi gains a new convert, and Tech in Asia launches Techlist, a platform for connecting startups and investors. It’s shaping up to be an exciting 2014!
Terence’s pick: Singapore government to tax some bitcoin transactions
Reactions towards Singapore’s taxation policy on bitcoins have generally been met with praise. Perhaps other countries would look to Singapore as a model for legislating the digital currency.
Saiyai’s pick: Happy New Year friends! Show some love for our newest baby, Techlist.Asia
Yes! Our baby Techlist – where investors meet startups – has finally launched! Please give it a warm welcome! Bookmark the site if you’re either looking to fund a startup or a founder looking to be funded!
Steven’s and Paul’s pick: Oh happy day! China officially lifts game console ban
Steven: After 13 years of refusing to permit any games consoles to go on sale, Chinese authorities have relented. However, we reckon that Sony and Microsoft have a long path ahead – of adding local content and removing other stuff – before their consoles can hit shelves in China. So don’t expect PS4 and XBox sales to begin immediately in China.
Paul: This is big news, but only on paper so far. Even if consoles are available in China, the market might be too accustomed to cheap and/or free gaming on mobile and PC for Playstation, Xbox, and Nintendo to succeed in China.
Willis’ pick: Xiaomi gets another new convert as Steve Wozniak drops into Beijing HQ
Xiaomi received a huge attaboy from Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak this week. It is a huge compliment for Xiaomi that was not too long ago accused by The New York Times that its success is simply achieved by aping Apple in China.
Phoebe’s pick: New Bitcoin exchange in the Philippines could set the stage for wider adoption of the currency
Bitcoin is continuously gaining ground in Asia, and now Filipinos have a platform to go to. Following this, we’re looking to see what the government’s take will be on the digital currency.
Josh’s pick: In China you can now hail a taxi and pay the driver on WeChat
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