The recent Shark Tank Forum 2025 brought together leading entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts for a compelling discussion on the future of startup investments. The highlight was a panel discussion focused on “What Are Investors Looking For After the ‘Fundraising Winter'” – a timely exploration of investment strategies in today’s evolving market landscape.

Key Investment Trends and Priorities

Shifting Investment Landscape

Following a period of aggressive funding and intense market activity, investors are adopting more measured approaches to investment decisions. This shift is particularly evident in the technology sector, where performance hasn’t always met expectations.

Minh Bui, the president of Beta Group remains open to diverse opportunities but emphasizes three key sectors:

  • Consumer entertainment
  • Education
  • Healthcare

The distinguishing factor, according to Bui, lies in identifying startups with clear differentiation and demonstrable potential for sustainable growth.

Emerging Business Models

Phi Van Nguyen, the Chairwoman of Vietnam Franchising & Licensing Network highlighted several promising areas gaining investor attention:

  • Franchise models
  • Food and beverage enterprises
  • Handicraft businesses
  • Artisanal product companies

These sectors are particularly attractive when combined with scalable operations and effective technology integration for management and optimization.

Current Market Challenges

President of Next Tech Group, Nguyen Hoa Binh pointed out the increasing complexity of securing funding, particularly regarding valuation challenges during fundraising rounds. Ms. Hoang Thi Kim Dzung, country director of Genesia Venture Vietnam emphasized that successful startups must address genuine consumer pain points, with investors particularly interested in solutions that optimize value chains and fill market gaps.

Global Expansion Opportunities

Mr. Quang Pham from ABB Private Equity emphasized the importance of international market expansion, highlighting significant opportunities:

  • Growing middle class in Vietnam (projected to reach 75 million by 2030)
  • Untapped potential in rural consumer markets
  • Expansion possibilities in the US and emerging economies

The New Investment Criteria

Both Shark Minh Beta and Shark Binh stressed that modern investors seek founders who demonstrate:

  • Strong ethical values
  • Clear long-term vision
  • Commitment to social responsibility
  • Focus on sustainable business practices

Looking Forward

The forum highlighted that successful startups in today’s environment must:

  • Address real market challenges
  • Demonstrate sustainable growth strategies
  • Maintain strong ethical foundations
  • Show potential for cross-border expansion
  • Adapt to changing market conditions

This gathering of industry leaders provided valuable insights into the evolving startup ecosystem, emphasizing the importance of sustainable growth, innovation, and ethical leadership in building successful enterprises.

This article is part of Asia Founders Alliance’s ongoing coverage of key startup and investment events in the region.

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