How Asia’s born-global SMEs are scaling through volatility
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For a growing class of Asian SMEs, going global is baked into their business model from day one. These are born-global, upmarket operators running multiple entities, selling across borders, sourcing internationally and dealing with the full complexity of cross-border commerce far earlier than traditional small businesses ever did.
In this episode of BT Podcasts, produced in collaboration with Payoneer, host Howie Lim examines how these sophisticated SMEs are navigating today’s volatile economic landscape and still finding ways to scale. Joined by Nagesh Devata, senior vice president for APAC GTM at Payoneer, the conversation moves beyond buzzwords to the practical realities of expansion across a fragmented Asia-Pacific region and why Singapore continues to function as both gateway and launchpad for regional growth.
ProduceD BY: Howie Lim, Claressa Monteiro & Chai Pei Chieh edited by: Howie Lim & Claressa Monteiro
graphics: TEOH YI CHIE
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Nagesh Devata, senior vice president for APAC GTM, Payoneer
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The episode ultimately asks a simple but uncomfortable question: what breaks first when an SME goes global? The answers may surprise founders who think expansion is mostly about demand. For anyone running, advising or investing in regionally ambitious businesses, this conversation offers a grounded look at what it really takes to grow across borders and keep moving fast when complexity multiplies. Listen now. For more episodes, visit bt.sg/podcasts. Got feedback or ideas? Write to us at btpodcasts@sph.com.sg.
This podcast is meant to provide general information only. SPH Media accepts no liability for loss arising from any reliance on the podcast or use of third party's products and services. Please consult professional advisors for independent advice.
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This episode is in collaboration with
Payoneer
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Scaling From Singapore into ASEAN: A Practical Expansion Guide
The rise of the born-global SME These are not mom-and-pop shops, but multi-entity businesses built to scale across borders early and fast.
Why Singapore keeps winning as a launchpad What makes it more than a hub, and why serious regional players still start here.
The real friction in going cross-border Payments, trust, FX and compliance often matter more than sales when expansion begins.
Looking global without losing local credibility How SMEs bridge the trust gap with customers and partners halfway around the world.
Building once, scaling everywhere Why unified financial infrastructure beats rebuilding systems market by market.