Ra mắt quỹ đầu tư Vietnam Innovators - Horst Geicke, CEO Deutsches | Vietnam Innovators S3EP07

TL;DR

Horst Geicke discusses investments and Vietnam's potential.

Transcript

Good morning, guys. Welcome to another episode of Vietnam Innovators. I'm your host, the CEO and co-founder of Vietcetera. Thank you for tuning in for another episode every Tuesday on YouTube, Apple, Spotify, anywhere you get our content. Today, we're filming in a different location, at Deutsche Haus. Deutsches Haus is one of the premier office tow... Read More

Key Insights

• Horst Geicke emphasizes the importance of being present in Vietnam for effective investment, highlighting the need for local engagement rather than remote management.
• The development of Deutsches Haus showcases the potential for sustainable building practices in Vietnam, emphasizing energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
• Vietnam's startup ecosystem is growing, driven by local talent and returning Vietnamese who studied abroad, creating a dynamic environment for innovation.
• VinaCapital, co-founded by Horst Geicke, was one of the pioneers in professional fund management in Vietnam, focusing on local investments and economic potential.
• Horst Geicke highlights the importance of corporate governance and ESG principles for young entrepreneurs, advocating for mentorship and responsible business practices.
• The Vietnam Innovators Fund aims to provide hands-on support to startups, focusing on storytelling and execution to attract capital and drive growth.
• Horst Geicke's vision for investment in Vietnam includes fostering a collaborative environment among startups to attract foreign capital and drive innovation.
• The Vietnamese government is seen as a key player in promoting sustainable development and addressing environmental challenges, particularly in urban areas.

Questions & Answers

Q: What motivated Horst Geicke to invest in Vietnam?

Horst Geicke was motivated to invest in Vietnam due to its potential for economic growth and development. He recognized the similarities between Vietnam and China in terms of political and economic structures, which suggested a promising future for entrepreneurship and investment opportunities. His early visits and interactions with local businesses further convinced him of Vietnam's potential.

Q: How did Deutsches Haus contribute to sustainable building practices in Vietnam?

Deutsches Haus set a benchmark for sustainable building practices in Vietnam by implementing energy-efficient technologies and reducing environmental impact. The building features special cooling systems, heat-absorbing facades, and water filtration systems, leading to significant energy savings. These efforts resulted in the building receiving the LEED Platinum certification, highlighting its commitment to sustainability.

Q: What is the focus of the Vietnam Innovators Fund?

The Vietnam Innovators Fund focuses on investing in startups that demonstrate strong storytelling and execution capabilities. The fund aims to provide hands-on support to early-stage companies in Vietnam, helping them to navigate challenges and attract capital. It emphasizes collaboration and innovation, with a particular interest in digitalization and technology-driven solutions.

Q: What challenges do Vietnamese startups face according to Horst Geicke?

Vietnamese startups face challenges such as navigating regulatory environments, accessing capital, and competing with established companies. Horst Geicke highlights the need for mentorship, corporate governance, and ESG principles to overcome these challenges. He also emphasizes the importance of localizing successful global applications to fit the Vietnamese market.

Q: How has Vietnam's startup ecosystem evolved over the years?

Vietnam's startup ecosystem has evolved significantly, driven by local talent and returning Vietnamese who have studied abroad. The ecosystem is now more dynamic, with a growing number of innovative companies addressing both local and global challenges. This evolution is supported by increased foreign investment and a supportive government, creating a conducive environment for startups.

Q: What role does the Vietnamese government play in sustainable development?

The Vietnamese government plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable development by implementing policies that encourage energy efficiency and environmental protection. Horst Geicke notes that while regulations exist, enforcement and public awareness need to be strengthened. The government's effective handling of the pandemic demonstrates its potential to drive positive change in environmental practices.

Q: What are Horst Geicke's expectations for the Vietnam Innovators Fund?

Horst Geicke expects the Vietnam Innovators Fund to foster a collaborative environment among startups, helping them to attract foreign capital and drive innovation. He aims for the fund to support companies in overcoming challenges and achieving sustainable growth, ultimately contributing to Vietnam's economic development and technological advancement.

Q: What impact has the return of Vietnamese expatriates had on the local startup scene?

The return of Vietnamese expatriates has had a positive impact on the local startup scene by bringing diverse perspectives, skills, and experiences. These individuals contribute to the growth and innovation of the ecosystem, helping to bridge gaps in talent and knowledge. Their presence enhances Vietnam's ability to compete on a global scale and attract international investment.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Horst Geicke shares his journey from starting in Hong Kong to investing in Vietnam, highlighting the country's potential for growth and innovation. He emphasizes the importance of local presence for successful investments and the role of sustainable practices in real estate.

• The Vietnam Innovators Fund, launched in collaboration with Vietcetera, aims to support startups with hands-on guidance and capital. The fund focuses on companies that can effectively tell their story and execute their vision, addressing local and global challenges.

• Horst Geicke discusses the evolution of Vietnam's startup ecosystem, driven by local talent and returning expatriates. He underscores the need for corporate governance and ESG principles, encouraging young entrepreneurs to seek mentorship and embrace responsible business practices.