Sign up for the Daily Newsletter, sent exclusively to our premium subscribers. We break down the big and messy topics of Asia’s tech and startup community. Get the newsletter in your inbox everyday with a premium subscription.
Hi readers,
Two of my most successful stories on Tech in Asia have been on direct-to-consumer and quick commerce – both hot sectors in India right now. So when I came across the idea of D2C startups getting hooked on quick commerce, I thought, “Why not?” The combination of these two booming trends seemed like a fascinating angle to explore.
The biggest challenge, though, was reaching out to Twinkle Uppal, founder of D2C wellness brand Hoop, whom I believed would add more substance to the story. I had seen one of her posts about quick commerce on LinkedIn and knew her perspective would add value to the article.
However, getting in touch with Uppal wasn’t easy. I sent her a connection request and several messages on LinkedIn but received no response. So I reached out to other executives at Hoop, who eventually helped me arrange a call with her.
That conversation became the heart of the story. Uppal shared how a new-age brand like Hoop collaborates with quick commerce platforms to reach customers faster than ever. Her insights not only made the article more compelling but also highlighted how quick commerce is reshaping the D2C landscape.
— Samreen Ahmad, journalist at Tech in Asia
Top stories this week
Image credit: Timmy Loen
1️. Why Indian brands are hooked on the quick commerce craze
It offers a cost-effective way for new brands to scale quickly, but there’s a catch regarding commissions.
2. Singapore bitcoin rush defies MAS warnings
Some say the next two years will be a “golden era” for the mainstream adoption of digital assets in the city-state.
3. Funding rebound ahead? 5 key predictions for VC in 2025
As interest rates drop and IPO markets reopen, venture capital is poised for recovery – especially in Southeast Asia.
4. Silver linings for EasyParcel despite 2023 revenue drop
The company plans to go public in the next three to five years.
5. As Philippine call centers weigh genAI, jobs hang in the balance
AI tools could boost call center productivity, but workers who fail to upskill fast enough may be sent packing.
6. SGX-listed 17Live wants to be the streaming world’s ‘izakaya’
CEO Jiang Honghui believes that the company can compete with YouTube and TikTok by playing to its niches.
Stay updated on the go with our mobile app.
Get latest insights with smoother, more personalized experience through TIA mobile app.
