Future-Proofing Businesses: Navigating Uncertainty and Seizing Opportunities in 2025
On 13 March 2025, over 400 industry leaders and visionaries gathered for IndSights Research Business Leaders Forum, titled ‘Future-Proofing Businesses: Navigating Uncertainty & Seizing Opportunities in 2025’. In its second year, the exclusive event provided a dynamic platform for leaders to connect, exchange ideas, and gain fresh insights on future-proofing their businesses amid a rapidly evolving global landscape. The forum also coincided with Singapore’s SG60 milestone year, offering a fitting backdrop that highlighted the importance of resilience, collaboration, and forward-looking strategies.
A big thank you to everyone who joined us. Your participation made this an insightful and engaging discussion on tackling uncertainties and unlocking growth opportunities.
We were privileged to have a distinguished lineup of speakers:
- Mr Desmond Tan (Guest-of-Honour), Senior Minister of State, Prime Minister’s Office & Deputy Secretary-General, NTUC
- Mr Ho Kwon Ping (Special Guest), Founder & Executive Chairman, Banyan Group & Thai Wah Public Company
- Mr Heng Koon How, Executive Director, Head of Markets Strategy, Global Economics and Markets Research, UOB
- Mr Ken Soh, Chair, SGTech Cyber Security Chapter, CIO, BH Global Corporation Ltd & CEO, Athena Dynamics Pte Ltd
- Mr Ernie Koh, President, Singapore Retailers Association, Executive Director (Marketing), Koda Ltd, Chairman, Commune Lifestyle Pte Ltd
- Ms Evelyn Tay, CEO, Singapore & Group CHRO, EtonHouse International Education Group
- Ms Elizabeth Liau, Founder & CEO, MAISON DE L’ASIE
Our attendees came from a diverse range of industries, with most from the Modern Services, Manufacturing & Trade and Information & Communications Technology sectors. Other sectors represented included Lifestyle, Urban Systems, and Human Health, reflecting a broad interest in navigating uncertainties and seizing growth opportunities across industries.
This event was made possible with the support of our valued partners: e2i (NTUC’s Employment and Employability Institute) and Knovel Engineering.
Opening Address
Competition is real, and collaboration is key. Our Guest-of-Honour, DSG Mr Desmond Tan, delivered a compelling opening address, emphasizing that as global competition intensifies and economic dynamics shift, collaboration across industries, policymakers, and ecosystems will be crucial for businesses to thrive. He highlighted key themes such as the role of AI in shaping the future of work and business, government support for SMEs through Budget 2025, and the importance of company training committees in strengthening workforce capabilities for the future.
Fireside Chat: Why SMEs Must Think Global from Day One
In our fireside chat with Mr Ho Kwon Ping, Founder & Executive Chairman of Banyan Group and Thai Wah Public Company, he shared valuable insights on the importance of adopting a global mindset early. He highlighted that global disruptions like political shifts and economic sanctions can present opportunities for businesses to expand into new markets and form strategic partnerships.
Key takeaways from the discussion:
- A Global Mindset from Day One – SMEs should integrate international expansion into their strategy early, leveraging regional supply chains and unconventional markets.
- Collaboration Strengthens Businesses – Success abroad requires cultural awareness and strategic partnerships, with the right legal safeguards in place.
- Adapting to Market Shifts – SMEs must remain agile to meet emerging demands, focus on innovation, and align with sustainability trends to stay competitive.
Panel 1: Navigating Trade Risks, AI Opportunities, and Economic Resilience in Uncertain Times
A big thank you to Mr Heng Koon How and Mr Ken Soh for their insights on managing trade risks, leveraging AI, and building economic resilience.
Key takeaways from the discussion:
- Managing Trade Risks & Tariffs – As tariffs and trade disruptions rise, businesses must stay informed on policy changes to minimize risks and safeguard consumer purchasing power.
- Leveraging AI – With AI evolving rapidly, businesses must remain agile to seize emerging opportunities and stay ahead in a competitive landscape.
- Economic Resilience in Singapore – Singapore’s strong domestic demand and trade relations help businesses withstand global volatility. Collaboration across industries is key to building long-term resilience.
The session emphasised the need for businesses to stay agile, collaborate effectively, and adapt to external shifts to remain competitive in uncertain times.
Panel 2: Seizing Global Opportunities While Balancing Localisation and Brand Consistency
Mr Ernie Koh, Ms Evelyn Tay, and Ms Elizabeth Liau shared their invaluable insights on seizing opportunities in 2025 and beyond. The panel stressed that businesses must look beyond Singapore’s small domestic market and seize opportunities in the broader regional and global landscape.
Key takeaways from the discussion:
- Navigating Foreign Market Challenges – Businesses must understand local regulations, consumer expectations, and demographics to succeed internationally.
- Striking the Right Balance – Successful expansion requires businesses to adapt products and strategies to local needs while maintaining brand identity and values. Balancing localisation with brand consistency is crucial for long-term success.
Expanding into international markets offers immense growth potential but requires careful planning, adaptability, and strategic insight.
Networking Session
We were pleased to offer ample opportunities for networking throughout the day. These moments provided valuable time for business leaders to engage, share insights, and explore potential partnerships.
Thank You
We extend our sincere gratitude to our distinguished speakers, attendees, and the RySense and IndSights Research teams for making this event a success. Your participation has contributed to a thought-provoking discussion on the future of business in 2025 and beyond.