Intel invests US$16mn across Asia

Intel Capital, Intel Corporation’s global investment and M&A organisation, announced three investments in e-commerce firms seeking to scale up and extend their businesses in Asia. 

The investments, totaling approximately US$16 million, are: India’s Bright Lifecare, a premier distributor of nutrition, health and wellness products; Snapdeal.com, a leading consumer goods marketplace in India; and existing portfolio company Singapore’sReebonz.com, one of Asia’s largest private luxury goods retailers.

 

“Intel Capital focuses on adding unique and differentiated value beyond just financial investments by providing entrepreneurs strategic expertise, a global network and business development programs to help them reach new customers and successfully scale businesses for a global economy,” said Arvind Sodhani, president of Intel Capital and Intel executive vice-president. “These three exciting and innovative companies are delivering new e-Commerce experiences to an ever-increasing customer base throughout Asia.  We look forward to helping them grow and succeed through our resources and their passion.” 

 

Announced on the sideline of the World Economic Forum on East Asia 2103, Intel Capital expects these investments to help drive innovation in the fast-growing e-commerce and distribution industries. Growth in Asia’s middle-class, overall expansion of its economy and ever improving internet connectivity in the region has given rise to a considerable online retail market opportunity for these firms.

 

 “We see start-up companies across Asia-Pacific taking advantage of new business opportunities created by the spread of personal computing and broadband Internet access. These technologies allow entrepreneurs to reach new markets and customers, and offer innovative new services that will help to enrich the lives of people across Asia,” said Gregory Bryant, vice-president and general manager, Intel Asia-Pacific.