In addition to Astra International, we also have updates from Grab, LivePerson, and FreshToHome

Astra International seeks to acquire seed, pre-seed stage startups – DealStreet Asia

Astra International Director Paulus Bambang WS announced that the company is “actively looking” to acquire seed and pre-seed stage startups that are in line with one of its diversified business, Dealstreet Asia reported.

He also announced that the company is close to acquiring a local startup in the logistics startup, though he did not disclose any name.

“We are not seeking for unicorn startups [to acquire]. We are hoping [to find] such [smaller] startups that could find us solutions that are related to our business,” the director said.

Grab plans major investment in Vietnam – Reuters

In an exclusive interview with Reuters, Grab President Ming Maa said that the company is set to invest “several hundred million dollars” in Vietnam where the company sees its next major growth market.

The announcement came just “weeks” after it announced a US$2 billion investment plan for Indonesia.

Ranking third or fourth in the company’s top markets, Ming Maa said that the Vietnam market has “very similar” characteristics with Indonesia.

Also Read: GOJEK, Astra launch all-in vehicle maintenance service GOFLEET

Indian e-commerce startup FreshToHome raises US$20M – TechCrunch

Indian e-commerce platform for fresh produces FreshToHome announced a US$20 million funding round led by Iron Pillar, TechCrunch reported.

Japan’s ZIGExn founder Joe Hirao also participated in the funding round.

Closing its US$11 million Series A funding round three months ago, the startup has raised a total of US$33 million.

Currently available in Bangalore, Mumbai, and Pune, the startup wants to use the funding to expand its service nationwide.

LivePerson opens office in Singapore, names regional sales director – Press Release

Live chat pioneer LivePerson today announced the launch of its new office in Singapore, that will serve as a central hub for its Southeast Asian operations.

The company also named Lim Wee Tee as Regional Sales Director of Southeast Asia in July 2019.

He will be responsible for spearheading sales and customer success operations in ASEAN, with a focus on expanding the business into the region.

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Image Credit: Muhammad Rizki on Unsplash

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