The Impulso Podcast

Yesterday, the US House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed a Bill dubbed the “Protecting Americans From Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act,” that would give ByteDance about six months to divest the US assets of TikTok or face a ban.   What does this mean for TikTok?   Join us on the latest episode of the Impulso Podcast as we delve into:  The likelihood of the ban;  TikTok's options - there seem to be no good options Donald Trump's opposition to the ban - will he really stand against it?; Will other countries follow suit?   Featured materials:  [Event Deck] Indonesia after the TikTok Shop ban, Momentum Works  E44: The winners and losers of the TikTok-GoTo deal, The Impulso Podcast

Is Shanghai mirroring Singapore's nutritional labelling approach?    Recently, Bawang Tea Ji's (Chagee) Shanghai store has introduced a "Nutritional Choice" logo on all its beverages - a first for freshly-made drinks in China. This mirrors Singapore's Nutri-Grade ratings (A to D), implemented by the Health Promotion Board, from December 2022, which were introduced to increase consumers' awareness, and help them make healthier choices.    But do these labels actually change consumer habits? And are they a hindrance to the bubble tea business, or do they push for product innovation?   Tune into our latest episode for a light-hearted discussion on the impact of these nutri-grades on consumer habits and business operations.  Featured materials Who is Mixue?, Momentum Works  Bubble tea in Southeast Asia, Momentum Works

Last night, Sea group published their 2023 Q4 and FY results, announcing its first profitable year. The market had mixed feelings - stock price fluctuated the first trading day post-results, and eventually closed with a 5% increase in share prices.    During the earnings call, Sea executives reiterated the group's dedication to deepening its moat in the region to maintain its position as a market leader in the region. But what exactly is its moat?   Join us in this latest episode as we delve into Sea Group's latest financial results, investor reactions, and explore the rationale behind Shopee's confidence in its guidance of a high teens growth rate, even in the ever-changing ecommerce landscape in the region.

Luckin Coffee is making headlines with its staggering pace of opening nearly 1,000 new stores each month. The discussion reveals how it has eclipsed Starbucks in sales, prompting questions about its true competitors. Experts analyze Luckin's aggressive expansion in China, fueled by operational strategies and technological innovations. The podcast also delves into the challenges of entering the Southeast Asian market and contrasts Luckin's model with Cotti's franchise approach. Key insights into consumer behavior and data-driven decision making provide a fascinating look at the coffee industry.

Grab recently published their 2023 Q4 and FY results, and during its earnings call, COO Alex Hungate confirmed that Grab is not pursuing acquiring FoodPanda. This aligns with Delivery Hero, FoodPanda’s parent, announcement earlier last week that acquisition talks for Foodpanda in Southeast Asia had collapsed.   Why did Grab give up on the potential acquisition of FoodPanda? Was the €1 billion price tag for FoodPanda (that German media quoted) not the "right price" for Grab?   Tune into this latest episode where we dive into the considerations behind Grab’s decision, examine the complexities of mergers and acquisitions, and discuss what’s next for Foodpanda in the region.    Featured materials: Grab is buying back shares, but not Foodpanda? Our thoughts on Grab’s 2023 Q4 and Full Year results Food delivery platforms in Southeast Asia 2024

China's live commerce industry is not just big—it's a trillion-dollar powerhouse with a vast ecosystem, encompassing MCNs, enablers, logistics, and more.    With only a month away from Momentum Works upcoming live commerce immersion in Shenzhen, China (where participants will have will visit/meet key players in this ecosystem), we wanted to address some common questions we’ve received from interested participants, as well as share insights into the ecosystem and trends of live commerce in China.    Tune into this latest episode where we uncover the driving forces behind China's live commerce boom, explore its potential in the US and Southeast Asia, and contemplate the future and influence of AI in this space.    Featured materials: Live Commerce Immersion, Momentum Academy Live commerce in Southeast Asia report, Momentum Works How did this company reach $280m sales in Live commerce?, The Low Down  Why are AI virtual hosts not yet dominant in live commerce?, The Low Down

Omar Kassim joins us in the latest episode of the Impulso podcast in a candid discussion about the current dynamics of the venture and investment ecosystem in the Middle East.    With over a decade of experiences in venture and investment in the region, Omar has many insights into the appealing yet mysterious market and ecosystem of the Middle East.    Join us as we dive into: How the two major economies, UAE and Saudi Arabia differentiate in their strategy and compete with each other The Middle East’s investment and venture capital landscapes The unique challenges faced by both local and global companies operating in the region The region's potential for growth and development

The podcast dives into the intriguing possibility of Deliveroo and DoorDash entering Southeast Asia. It discusses the operational challenges unique to the region and how rising delivery fees might impact dining out. Vietnam's impressive 30% GMV growth is highlighted, along with the potential for expansion into smaller cities. The special case of the Philippines emphasizes Jollibee's extensive delivery network. Additionally, the hosts explore competition from Chinese F&B brands and provide strategies for local players to thrive.

Meituan faces tough competition from Douyin and Pinduoduo, prompting a major restructuring under CEO Wang Xing. He will now directly manage overseas operations and spearhead drone delivery initiatives. The discussion highlights the implications of this shift, especially compared to Alibaba's restructuring. Hosts explore Meituan's cautious approach to international expansion, particularly in Hong Kong, while addressing the challenges of adapting its business model abroad. The episode wraps with reflections on Meituan's convenience in daily life for many.

Explore the latest trends in Southeast Asia's food delivery scene. DoorDash shines in capital markets while Meituan struggles post-IPO. Chinese F&B brands are making a bold entrance with innovative strategies. Profitability is now the focus, as companies seek growth amidst a slowly maturing market. Could TikTok disrupt the food delivery game? Discover how local dynamics influence strategies and the rising importance of advertising as a revenue stream. Insights into self-operated delivery by fast-food giants offer a glimpse into future market shifts.