Forget unicorns. This is the next wave of startups in Southeast Asia

Dear readers,

The world may be focused on unicorns, but Tech in Asia is looking out for the diversity of startups looking to break out.

“Unicorn” is a vanity term anyway. Given how the Lyft and Uber IPOs have performed, perhaps it’s time the industry focuses on operational metrics rather than mindless growth.

For every WeWork, there’s a JustCo, a US$200 million co-working operator that’s trying to set itself apart.

A unicorn itself, Bukalapak is carving a distinct path from larger rival Tokopedia by opening its platform to international users.

And while Honestbee’s stumbles have cast doubt on online groceries, Metromart in the Philippines is confident it can be profitable.

If you’d like us to continue spotlighting the companies that matter in Southeast Asia, do subscribe to us.

Check out the remaining premium content from the past week:

• Facing slowing growth, WeChat wants some TikTok energy
• Samsung tried and failed to replace Android. How is Huawei going to do it?
• Rising startups on Tech In Asia: groceries, cross-border fintech, co-working spaces
• Ex-banker eyes Myanmar with loans startup
• Tokopedia in talks to invest in agritech startup Sayurbox, source says
• Meet the 50 top-funded startups and tech companies in India

Cheers,

Terence
Chief Editor