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The New SME Playbook for 2026: Outsource, Digitalise, Go Regional [TBS 42, Sponsored by UOB BOS]

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Is your business ready for the future?

We dive into the 2025 UOB Business Outlook Study with a powerhouse panel of experts.

  • Paul Kan, Country Head of UOB Business Banking Singapore, who sheds light on the financial landscape for SMEs and how businesses can adapt to thrive
  • Joseph Soh, Founder of Xpressflower.com, offering his experience in scaling a retail business and the role of data and digitalisation in expanding regionally
  • Desmond Goh, Managing Director of NETS, who shares how digital payment solutions are reshaping business operations.

You'll Discover:

  • How business sentiment has evolved in 2025 amid rising costs, talent shortages, and global uncertainty.
  • Real-world strategies for scaling regionally and innovating under pressure.
  • The latest in digitalisation and AI: what’s actually working for customer engagement, automation, and growth.
  • Tips for managing costs, increasing productivity, and staying nimble in the face of rising competition.

If you're an SME owner or entrepreneur, this conversation is a must-listen! Don’t miss out on the key takeaways that could define your next big move. Watch now and discover how you can stay competitive, innovate, and grow your business.

What We Discuss:

  • 01:40 - What does your role in the business entail?
  • 02:46 - How do you manage the challenges of running 18 outlets?
  • 04:18 - What is the current sentiment among business owners you interact with?
  • 06:15 - How are you coping with the rising costs and manpower challenges?
  • 08:04 - How has expanding to the Philippines impacted your business?
  • 10:35 - How has digital payment adoption benefited merchants, especially during COVID?
  • 14:06 - How does your bank help businesses use digital tools to improve efficiency?
  • 15:46 - What advice do you have for businesses looking to expand regionally?
  • 18:25 - What types of businesses have been successful expanding into regional markets?
  • 22:04 - Do you think businesses are investing in the right digital tools?
  • 23:29 - Can you share any successful use cases of digitalization in business?
  • 28:41 - How can AI tools help businesses understand and grow their customer base?
  • 29:59 - What are the key factors for businesses to access sophisticated support and growth?
  • 32:06 - How do you approach upskilling your staff to handle new technology?
  • 33:11 - How important is reinvention and innovation for businesses today?

Episode Resources:


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