Airwallex raised US$300 million from a group that includes Square Peg, Airtree, and Blackbird, marking one of Australia’s largest tech funding rounds by size and valuation. The capital supports product development and international expansion as the company grows its global payments platform and ecosystem. Backed by more than US$1 billion in funding, Airwallex reported US$720 million in annualised revenue and over US$130 billion in payments volume across 150,000 business customers.
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PayNet has launched Malaysia’s first fintech-focused community and accelerator, the PayNet Fintech Hub, to support startups with capital access, corporate partners, and expert mentorship. Participants will receive over US$1.08 million in curated benefits, including cloud credits, advisory, and co-working space. Selected startups will join a fully sponsored global accelerator hosted by Imperial College London, gaining international exposure and investor access. Gobi Partners is among the investors selected to support startups within the hub.
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Gobi Partners Head of ESG and Circular Economy, Carlo Chen-Delantar, reflected on the decade since Super Typhoon Yolanda devastated the Visayas, underscoring the Philippines’ vulnerability to climate disasters - and its untapped potential in climate innovation. The Philippines holds rich natural resources, a strong diaspora talent pool, and growing local solutions. However, systemic challenges such as regulatory hurdles and limited infrastructure continue to hinder progress. Carlo called for streamlined permitting, increased R&D investment, and stronger public-private collaboration to scale innovations like microgrids and regenerative agriculture, positioning the Philippines as a model for island climate resilience.
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G R E A T E R B A Y A R E A :
F U T U R E T E C H S E R I E S
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This month, Gobi spotlights portfolio companies advancing automation and intelligent systems across the Greater Bay Area. Each startup demonstrates how applied AI and robotics address real-world challenges across sectors. The series reflects Gobi’s commitment to innovation and Asia’s future tech landscape.
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Championing Innovation: From Hong Kong to Macau
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At BEYOND Expo 2025, Gobi marked its third year of participation with Thomas, Chibo, Navvin Kumar (Senior Director, Investments), Fred Li (Managing Director), Renee Pan (Managing Director), Jason Chen (Chief Operating Officer and Managing Director), and Catherine Shu (Head of Content) hosted and discussed at the Go Beyond: The Asia Leadership Dialogue—on scaling strategies, industry applications, and exit planning. The session concluded with a book signing by Chief Executive Officer of the Bank of Punjab, Zafar Masud, the author of Seat 1C: A Survivor’s Tale of Hope, Resilience, and Renewal. Zafar shared his journey of recovery following the PIA Flight 8303 crash and his perspectives on Pakistan’s evolving digital landscape.
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