Trends and challenges in Asian venture capital

SummaryVenture capital industries are developing rapidly in many countries in Asia. Some investment funds have been inspired by US investment successes, particularly in support of high technology start-ups. Venture capital (VC) industries in Asian countries have developed at very different rates and are enjoying different levels of success, particularly in those countries which have recently experienced severe currency and market corrections. This paper provides a snapshot of the history and current state of play of VC industries in several Asian countries. Although they are heterogeneous in wealth and management approach, Asian VC industries may be said to be generally investing in similar enterprises. With the exception of Taiwan, which is investing heavily in information technology, the majority of start-ups and new companies supported by Asian venture capital are not introducing new technologies.