Asia’s technology and business sectors are seeing strong activity as companies increase investments, launch new digital products and expand into emerging markets. Venture capital firms are backing startups, while major technology companies are using artificial intelligence to reshape advertising, commerce and financial services.
Malaysian VC firm Cypress Asia has launched a new fund to support technology startups, while TikTok is introducing AI-powered shopping tools and expanding its advertising network. In the semiconductor industry, Hanmi Semiconductor has secured a major Samsung-related contract for AI substrates.
Meanwhile, Hong Kong fintech Qupital is entering on-chain lending, and Flipkart is strengthening its travel business through an investment in TravClan.
Cypress Asia Launches $12.2 Million Fund for Malaysian Startups
Malaysian venture capital firm Cypress Asia has launched a RM50 million ($12.2 million) fund to back technology startups in the country. The firm will focus on companies at the pre-Series A and Series A stages, particularly businesses with a clear path to profitability. The fund comes as Malaysian startups seek more local capital to scale their operations and develop technology products. Cypress Asia plans to support businesses with growth potential across several technology-focused sectors.
- New Hoong Fatt Holdings has committed up to RM20 million as the anchor investor.
- Cypress Asia plans to invest RM1 million to RM3 million in each company.
- The fund expects to make five to seven investments initially.
TikTok Announces AI Shopping Tools and Ad Network
TikTok is introducing new artificial intelligence-powered shopping tools as it expands its e-commerce and advertising capabilities. The company is developing features that can help users discover products and complete purchases while browsing the platform. TikTok is also giving advertisers new tools to automate campaigns and reach customers beyond its own application. The move comes as social platforms increasingly combine AI, shopping and targeted advertising.
- Buy Direct will allow users to purchase products directly from the For You feed.
- Shopping Assistant will use conversational AI to provide product and shopping information.
- TikTok is expanding its TikTok Ad Network to reach audiences outside the platform.
Hanmi Semiconductor Wins $18.1 Million Samsung Deal for AI Substrates
South Korean semiconductor equipment maker Hanmi Semiconductor has secured an $18.1 million order from Samsung Electro-Mechanics. The deal covers equipment used in the production of advanced semiconductor substrates for artificial intelligence applications. The contract highlights growing demand for advanced packaging equipment as chipmakers increase investment in AI infrastructure. Hanmi is expected to deliver the equipment under a contract running through December 2027.
- The order is worth approximately 24.5 billion won ($18.1 million).
- Hanmi will supply Micro Saw & Vision Placement systems.
- The contract runs from September 2026 through December 17, 2027.
Hong Kong Fintech Qupital Launches On-Chain Lending Platform
Hong Kong-based fintech company Qupital has launched an AI-powered on-chain lending platform for global e-commerce merchants. The new system combines artificial intelligence with blockchain-based smart contracts to automate lending and settlement processes. The platform uses USDC to provide round-the-clock liquidity and enable faster cross-border transactions. Qupital is targeting merchants seeking alternative financing as global digital commerce continues to expand.
- The platform uses AI to monitor merchant sales and loan performance.
- Financing is settled through USDC and Ethereum-based smart contracts.
- Qupital has processed more than $9.5 billion in cumulative trade financing.
Also Read: Asia Today: EVs, Fintech, Retail, Travel & Business Expansion
Flipkart Takes Stake in Indian Travel Platform TravClan
Indian e-commerce company Flipkart has acquired a minority stake in travel technology platform TravClan. The investment will help Flipkart strengthen its international travel offerings through Cleartrip and Flipkart Travel. TravClan provides technology and travel inventory to agents selling holidays, hotels and activities to customers. The partnership comes as Flipkart expands its presence across India’s growing online travel market.
- TravClan’s platform is used by more than 15,000 travel agents.
- The investment will strengthen international holiday offerings on Cleartrip and Flipkart Travel.
- TravClan plans to invest in technology, global supply and destination expansion.
