The Impulso Podcast
Momentum Works
The Impulso Podcast is hosted by Momentum Works, a venture outfit headquartered in Singapore. Each week, our in-house experts, community and guests unpack the latest trends, undercurrents and lessons in tech across borders. We explore topics like innovation, ecommerce, digital financial services, venture investment, and the broader digital economy.
In addition to covering our home base of Southeast Asia and advanced global markets like the US, we also draw extensive lessons from tech companies in China.
Visit momentum.asia or get in touch via hello@mworks.asia for our insights reports, newsletter, Academy and Venture offerings.
In addition to covering our home base of Southeast Asia and advanced global markets like the US, we also draw extensive lessons from tech companies in China.
Visit momentum.asia or get in touch via hello@mworks.asia for our insights reports, newsletter, Academy and Venture offerings.
Episodes
Mentioned books
12 snips
Aug 25, 2023 • 32min
E26: Momentum Works Goes to China Part 1/2
Yolian, a team member at Momentum Works, shares her exciting experiences from a recent China immersion trip. She discusses innovative retail concepts like machine-washable teddy bears attached to coffee cups. The team explores Meituan's swift delivery services, emphasizing fresh food logistics. They also delve into China's autonomous vehicle landscape with flying taxis and a visit to tech giants like Huawei and Tencent. Additionally, Yolian highlights talent incentives in Qianhai aimed at attracting international firms, showcasing China's rapid innovation.
10 snips
Aug 16, 2023 • 28min
E25: [In-depth] Food Delivery platforms and landscape in Asia
Explore the dynamic world of food delivery in Asia, where Zomato has unexpectedly turned profitable despite its tiny user base. Discover how Meituan achieves lightning-fast deliveries, setting a standard for efficiency. Delve into the contrasting delivery experiences in Singapore compared to larger markets like China and India, revealing the impact of transport regulations. Witness partnerships and superapp growth shaping consumer habits, as companies navigate unique regional challenges and strive for profitability.
11 snips
Aug 11, 2023 • 27min
E24: GoTo launches GoPay app, TikTok Shop’s logistical dilemma and a Chinese tech investment ban for the US
Explore the launch of GoTo's standalone GoPay app, designed to streamline e-wallet services in Indonesia. Compare WeChat's social features to Alipay's functionality and discover the fragmented e-wallet landscape. Dive into TikTok Shop's challenges and its rivalry with traditional e-commerce, and debate whether TikTok should invest in logistics. Finally, reflect on the tensions surrounding recent US tech investment restrictions in China. This lively discussion touches on the evolving digital market!
13 snips
Aug 9, 2023 • 26min
E23: [In-depth] Finding business clarity with Meituan
Discover the fascinating journey of Meituan's evolution from a group-buy platform into a powerhouse in food delivery. Explore how it successfully competed against Alibaba's dominance by enhancing its services and operational efficiencies. Learn about Meituan's venture into AI with the acquisition of Lightyear and its ambitious expansion into Hong Kong's delivery market. With intriguing insights into Wang Xing's entrepreneurial spirit and Meituan's profitability strategies, this discussion unravels key lessons from one of China's most successful companies.
15 snips
Aug 4, 2023 • 32min
E22: Elon is fined again, China considers tech restrictions for kids and AI is replacing recruiters
Elon Musk faces a hefty fine for installing a flashy sign without permits, showcasing the chaos of rebranding. Meanwhile, China eyes a curfew for underage internet users, echoing past gaming restrictions and raising questions about effectiveness. AI continues to make waves in recruitment, as glitches from chatbots spark concern about their readiness for hiring blue-collar workers. The hosts also discuss the potential loss of human touch in hiring and whether AI will ultimately free humans or threaten jobs.
18 snips
Aug 2, 2023 • 33min
E21: [In-depth] The rise and strategies of SHEIN
Dive into the fascinating world of Shein, the fast fashion giant that exploded onto the scene since its 2008 founding. Uncover its game-changing supply chain strategies that allow rapid trend responses and low prices. The discussion touches on Shein's massive global reach, its competitive speed compared to traditional brands like Zara, and the recent shifts in leadership. Plus, learn about the impact of TikTok on its popularity and the ongoing sustainability debates surrounding fast fashion.
20 snips
Jul 28, 2023 • 35min
E20: Twitter becomes X, Grab buys Trans-cab, Temu enters South Korea, and EV motorcycles in Indonesia
Elon Musk's bold rebranding of Twitter into 'X' raises questions about its future as an everything app. Temu's explosive growth into 27 countries and its leap into South Korea spotlights its potential to disrupt the e-commerce scene. Meanwhile, Grab's acquisition of Trans-Cab aims to tackle ride-hailing challenges in Singapore, blending traditional taxis with modern ride services. Lastly, Maka Motors delves into the Indonesian EV motorcycle market, tackling roadblocks in battery life and supply chains.
20 snips
Jul 26, 2023 • 28min
E19: [In-depth] Luckin Coffee’s expansion, and the impact on Starbucks
In this engaging discussion, Jung Un Lee, CEO and founder with extensive experience in consumer and F&B sectors, shares insights on Luckin Coffee's evolution and its rivalry with Starbucks. The focus is on how Luckin succeeded by catering to Chinese taste preferences, notably with popular drinks like the coconut latte. Jung Un contrasts Luckin's app-driven efficiency and minimal in-store experience with Starbucks' inviting ambiance. He also highlights Luckin's rapid expansion strategies and the innovative use of tech in retail, reshaping the competitive landscape.
13 snips
Jul 21, 2023 • 25min
E18: [In-depth] Ant Group part two: building the future
The discussion dives into Ant Group's strategic shifts amid regulatory hurdles. Explore Alipay's astounding user base and its leap into diverse financial services like lending and insurance. The hosts analyze its incremental expansion, likening it to Amazon's evolution. Insights on building credit scoring through utility payments and engaging users with innovative everyday products are shared. The conversation also touches on Ant's international growth in Southeast Asia and its efforts to navigate the complexities of cross-border payments.
13 snips
Jul 19, 2023 • 26min
E17: [In-depth] Ant Group part one: rise and challenges
Discover the incredible rise of Ant Group, launched by Jack Ma, and its transformation into a financial technology giant. Learn how Alipay evolved from an escrow service to a mobile payments powerhouse. Dive into the implications of recent regulatory crackdowns and their impact on Ant Group's future. Explore its diverse offerings like microfinance lending, innovative insurance solutions, and the challenges posed by compliance changes. Unravel the strategic approach that has made Ant a key player in the global financial landscape.
