Every day, 100k+ smart people read our newsletter. You can sign up here.
Hello readers,
I’m a creature of habit. For the most part, I love routines, and this extends to my leisure time as well; I don’t tend to pick up new interests often. That said, the itch to try something new does happen from time to time, and I dove into the world of tabletop role-playing games for the first time relatively recently. Besides being a player, I’ve also run a game for friends, which is fun in its own storyteller-manipulator way.
Apparently, this thirst to try new things happens to sovereign wealth funds as well: Singapore’s Temasek isn’t just investing in large corporations anymore. It has launched some startups of its own, becoming players in the blockchain, cybersecurity, and vertical farming industries, among others.
Today we look at:,
- Temasek’s moves in the startup world
- How partnering with Grab for digital banking has already shown results for Singtel
- Other newsy highlights such as the future of flying cars and the first investments of a new Gobi Ventures-backed VC firm
PREMIUM SUMMARY
Giants can be agile too
Singaporean sovereign wealth fund Temasek is putting some serious investment into early-stage startups, launching and running its own enterprises. These moves give it the opportunity to grow alongside the companies, and also gives it deep insights into emerging technologies that could impact its overall investment portfolio.
- Spice of life: Temasek’s latest projects are in the varied fields of blockchain technology, recruitment, and B2B marketplaces. It also has its fingers in the cybersecurity and vertical farming pies.
- Blockchain as an enabler: Affinidi, Temasek’s blockchain startup, is crafted to adapt to different scenarios. Its technology has been used in the recruitment sector, insurance, and even in verifying Covid-19 swab test results and health credentials.
- Adjusted appetite: The early-stage startup world presents many new kinds and levels of risk, but Temasek says that it’s well-placed to address various challenges and gaps. This is due to its long-term view and orientation, its ability to provide capital over longer horizons, and its more patient stance toward a path to profitability.
Read more: The investor’s gambit: Temasek launches its own startups
NEWS SPOTLIGHT
Singtel + Grab = shares go up
Pitching competitions provide more than funding
Stay updated on the go with our mobile app.
Get latest insights with smoother, more personalized experience through TIA mobile app.
