E24: GoTo launches GoPay app, TikTok Shop’s logistical dilemma and a Chinese tech investment ban for the US

For the second week in a row, there isn’t too much explosive news for us to dissect, but that’s not to say that the world of tech, business and innovation has been quiet by any standard. Join us as we dissect ride hailing and e-commerce giant GoTo’s decision to launch a standalone GoPay app in Indonesia, Tiktok Shop’s recent developments, and cross border tensions as the US imposes a ban on tech investment in China.   How do WeChat and AliPay differ? One is a social app with payment, and the other is a payment app with other functions. GoTo is tapping into a middle ground here with the creation of their standalone GoPay app which will operate as an e-wallet on its own, potentially allowing for consumers to engage in payment outside of the GoTo ecosystem. This app will take up less space than Gojek and Tokopedia do, and aims to tap into the customer base that may not have ride hailing, food delivery or e-commerce needs per se, but still have interest in an e-wallet.   Next, we take another look at TikTok Shop. A couple weeks ago we did an in-depth look at TikTok Shop, and today we have some updates and new perspectives for you. How are brands viewing TikTok Shop in comparison to traditional e-commerce platforms like Shopee? Should TikTok invest in their own logistics set up, or continue to rely on third party solutions? Find out this and more on today’s episode.   To end on a light note (pure sarcasm here), we take a brief look at US-China relations, and how they are developing in light of the White House signaling a ban or severe restriction on tech investment going into China from the US. While the motives appear to be security related, the knock on effect is yet to be seen, as are any retaliatory measures that will be imposed by Beijing.   Stay tuned for Wednesday’s in-depth episode on food delivery platforms!