Change is inevitable

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Hello reader,

Change is a scary prospect for everyone, but if we ever want to grow, we have to embrace it.

Making big changes in my life – whether it was moving to a new country, taking on a new job, or ending a relationship – has usually led to growth.

Each of those changes involved some fear – what if I can’t adapt to a new culture? What if I’m not skilled enough for this role? What if I’m not ready to be single again?

Answering those questions can be terrifying, but it’s how we learn more about ourselves and grow.

Today’s featured premium story explores a media company that embraced a big change via a rising social media platform, and grew as a result.

Today we look at:

• The social media content firm that has leaned into TikTok for revenue growth
• VinFast closing in on a SPAC deal
• Other newsy highlights such as Halodoc’s US$100 million raise and Binance’s fight against US regulators.

Premium summary

Tapping TikTok

Image credit: Timmy Loen

Hepmil was facing stagnating revenue and its founder was even considering a sale – until the social media content company embraced TikTok.

Now, Hepmil has doubled its revenue and workforce while expanding across Southeast Asia from its Singapore base.

• Reaching out: As TikTok began to pick up steam in 2019, Hepmil co-founder and CEO Karl Mak saw an opportunity in influencers who had big followings but lacked the know-how to monetize their platforms. Mak sought to teach them how.
• Brand focus: Branded content is the largest source of cash for the company, accounting for nearly 84% of its total revenue last year. Hepmil counts household names like McDonald’s, Disney, Lazada, Starbucks, Adidas, and Warner Media among its clients.
• Grow baby, grow: Hepmil was previously profitable but for now, the firm is focusing on expansion. The company hopes to raise US$30 million to deepen its presence in the region via mergers and acquisitions.

Revving up

We’re headed to Bangalore next! Seize your chance to be part of our exclusive founders-only networking event.

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