The panel discussion by Shawn Dehpanah,  Maneerat Anulomsombut and Paul Srivorakul give advice on the best exit strategies for startups and entrepreneurs. 

What are the common ways to exit?

Shawn - There are several ways to exit, let the investors know your exit strategy and the people who will be your investor Aquasition. Companies have left at different levels of capital and gone into IPOs as a different direction. Every startup needs to grow their business and add value to their company. 

Paul - When you build a business you can grow your businesses quickly as the markets have changed and there are so many platforms to leverage on. It used to take us 5 - 6 years to build a large company but now it takes half the time.

What is the perfect strategy?

As things move quickly you have to create your strategy from the outset.

Shawn - You must be careful and take into consideration things like what companies are there to acquire you. Who are your ideal partners? Are they the right partner? How long will it take you to make money?  Why did they choose the route of IPO? Are you able to take liquidity from the products that we create?  Its all about the team which will help you raise money.

Paul - Our goal is to build a sustainable business. You have to evaluate all the factors to take it to IPO. You have to also take the direction to turn down the offer.

As investors, you have to know about founders not wanting to give away their babies (companies)? You have to know or try and predict the future and next step. at least 3 months in advance. Find a platform with an investor with a lot of opportunity with introductions

Nok - we start investing in the products - in Vietnam and Indonesia. We look at the startups like the investors, We can relate it into the market

How do you say no to a really aggressive investor who could crush your business?

Nok - It’s about bidding and timing and really research your investor, you have to delay the deal if you are unsure. Economic Landscapes are changing globally, therefore, investment is changing too. Take a look at Europe for example. Brexit has rocked the boat and a lot of people are looking to Germany. The US is very active as an investment hotbed as well. 

Shawn - The Southeast Asian market is growing rapidly and is definitely a great place to invest in but as it stands Silicon Valley is holding the most startups in the world still. 

Paul - I personally invest as an angel which give the investor the right to veto certain aspects. You don't want an investor to block your strategy and negate a  Late exit/early exit. don't take advice without legal advice. Large companies in China and in the US acquire investors in their own right. 

Do you see that happening in south-east Asia?

Shawn - They are investing in Fintech across the spectrum. If we take a look at Indonesia, Go-Jek has incredible traction with people with a strong connection to the banks. You need to find independent investors  You need to compete as space is getting competitive with Google and Amazon showing their weight in these markets now. 

Nok - Its really interesting how China is seeping in and the e-commerce space is very prominent.  Understanding the whole ecosystem gives you an edge. Big companies like Alibaba help to grow markets. Hiring and expanding into other markets is also advantageous with large successful companies.  

If you have the skills then you can align yourself with strategic partners to gain financial support in markets where large companies are booming.

What advice should you keep in mind for your exit strategy?  

Paul - Should I Exit as quickly as possible?  You can you still make money. Don't accept the first offer. Focus on core strengths. Raise capital - The investor looks at your business model in depth so have it very detailed and transparent.