As a startup and venture lawyer, it is common for a startup founder in Malaysia to ask me whether it is legal to issue a Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE) round for his Malaysian company. The answer is yes. You can raise funds using a SAFE round in Malaysia. But the usual standard template…
I co-authored a World Bank report on startup financing in Malaysia
During the early lockdown month last year, I was surprised when I received an email from a World Bank researcher asking to schedule a call with me to ask a few questions on the state of startup financing in Malaysia. I found out afterwards that both of the researchers came across one of my webinars…
How to issue sweat equity for your start-ups in Malaysia
Getting a start-up off the ground isn’t easy. It is also hard to keep a good team around and secure new talents especially when you’re bootstrapped with limited cash. Sweat equity shares are a powerful tool for helping you retain talents, and even get others like advisors and mentors in the ecosystem or industry that…
New rules for ‘buy now pay later’ in Malaysia soon?
Earlier this year, I was asked to comment on the ‘buy now pay later’ (BNPL) operators earlier this year by The Edge Malaysia. What is ‘buy now pay later’? To recap, a BNPL is a service that allows consumers to buy things at 0% interest on an equal instalment basis. Currently, BNPL services are not…
What Malaysian startups need to know about reverse vesting
Last month, I discussed vesting schedules structures for startups. This post will discuss reverse vesting and how it can save your startup from being destroyed by your co-founders.
Why and when you need to hire a startup lawyer
In your journey as a startup founder or entrepreneur, it is so crucial for you to get a startup lawyer as soon as possible. Here’s why.
Board observers: What startup founders need to know
More venture capitals and angels prefer to take up a board observer status as opposed to a usual board seat in a company. Read more to know the pros and cons of a board observer status.
Pros and cons: Angel investor for your startup
Angel investors are one of the usual and easiest sources of financing for new startups. Find out the pros and cons of having an angel in your startup.
Webinar: Fintech startups in Malaysia 101
I love working with fintech startups. We need to have more innovative solutions in the financial space so that we can empower more underserved and unbanked segments in Malaysia. Next week, I will be sharing my experience in advising fintech startups. To date, I’ve worked with various fintech companies from equity crowdfunding, peer to peer,…
Pre-emptive rights (and why it’s important for your startup)
Pre-emptive or pre-emption rights, aka right of first refusal is a right given to a shareholder. Find out why this right is is important for your startup.