Episodes

  • Asia's Gold Rush? | Shaokai Fan, World Gold Council | Tank Talks Asia

    Asia's Gold Rush? | Shaokai Fan, World Gold Council | Tank Talks Asia
    Jun 4 2026
    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Shaokai Fan from the World Gold Council joins Manisha Tank to discuss the enduring global fascination with gold and its evolving role today.They talk about why central banks are accumulating gold at record levels, why Asia is reshaping global demand and whether gold still deserves its reputation as a safe-haven asset in an increasingly complex world.Featured Voices Host: Manisha TankGuest: Shaokai Fan, Global Head of Asia Pacific (ex China) and Global Head of Central Banks, World Gold CouncilKey takeawaysShaokai explains why gold is highly valued across cultures for its symbolic, spiritual and financial significance.He talks about how our modern money systems evolved from gold-backed systems, including early gold coins and goldsmith-issued paper receipts.Shaokai says Asia now dominates global gold demand, with China and India together accounting for roughly half of global consumer gold consumption.He examines how central banks have accelerated their gold purchases in recent years amid geopolitical and financial uncertainty.Shaokai says gold remains a complex asset and he outlines how its price is influenced by factors like interest rates, liquidity needs and broader market stress.Chapter heads00:20The Ancient Allure of GoldManisha begins by discussing gold’s long history, tracing it all the way from ancient civilizations through to its modern resurgence in global markets.01:58From Wall Street to World HistoryShaokai reflects on his career path, which has led him from investment banking to the gold industry.03:42Why Humans Value GoldHe explores what’s behind gold’s universal appeal, including its cultural symbolism and its association with the sun.04:38The Birth of MoneyShaokai explains how gold coins and goldsmith receipts helped evolve into paper money and form the basis of our modern financial systems.06:07Asia’s Growing InfluenceHe talks about China’s role as a producer and consumer of gold and also discusses the rise of the Shanghai Gold Exchange.08:20India’s Deep Cultural ConnectionShaokai highlights India’s dual role as both a cultural and economic powerhouse in global gold demand.09:42Vietnam’s Evolving Gold MarketHe also touches on how Vietnam has loosened up its gold policy and where there’s still such a strong cultural demand for it there.11:24Is Gold Still a Safe Haven?Shaokai notes that gold doesn’t always rise during crises and that interest rates can affect its performance.13:48Central Banks and the Future of GoldHe discusses why central banks are increasing their gold reserves and how geopolitics plays into their decision making.17:38Gold vs BitcoinShaokai compares gold and cryptocurrency, highlighting their differing roles as reserve assets and investment tools.19:36The Future Gold EraThe episode concludes with a look at how Asia is becoming the central gravity point for the global gold market.Useful linkshttps://www.gold.org/https://www.royalmint.com/invest/discover/gold-news/a-brief-history-of-gold/https://www.federalreservehistory.org/essays/bretton-woods-createdhttps://www.gold.org/goldhub/research/gold-safe-haven-versus-silver-wildcardhttps://en.sge.com.cn/https://www.imf.org/en/homeDon’t miss outWe’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:tanktalksasia@asiaworks.comAnd don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.
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    23 mins
  • Brand Asia? Busting Asian Culture Myths | Andrea Ng, Canvas 8 | Tank Talks Asia

    Brand Asia? Busting Asian Culture Myths | Andrea Ng, Canvas 8 | Tank Talks Asia
    May 20 2026
    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha Tank talks to Andrea Ng, who’s Insights Director at Canvas8, to address some of the biggest myths surrounding Asia’s rise as a consumer powerhouse (from passive brand loyalty to bargain hunting).Andrea explains how the region is increasingly shaping global culture through phenomena like K-pop, Korean beauty and Labubu. Make sure you don’t miss the blind box reveal at the end!Featured Voices Host: Manisha TankGuest: Andrea Ng, Director of Insight APAC, Canvas8Key takeawaysAndrea says Asia’s rise is increasingly defined by its consumer culture, which is influencing global taste in entertainment, beauty, food and retail.She outlines why there is no single “Asian consumer” and that markets across the region are shaped by very different demographic, cultural and economic realities.Andrea believes consumers in Asia are highly sophisticated in how they assess value and prioritize their spending.She says that in Asia convenience is built into everyday life, through super apps and shared community spaces.Andrea states that consumers across Asia are actively shaping brands, by using their communities and networks to influence and question where brands are headed.Chapter heads02:28Is Asia’s Century Finally Here?Andrea explains why Asia’s global influence is being driven as much by consumer culture, as by economics and geopolitics.04:26From Hello Kitty to LabubuShe explores how digital connectivity has accelerated Asia’s cultural exports and turned regional trends into global phenomena.05:28The Myth of the Asian ConsumerAndrea breaks down why treating Asia as a single consumer market is one of the biggest mistakes brands can make.06:41How Demographics Are Reshaping DemandShe talks about how consumer priorities are diverging, from ageing societies in Japan and South Korea, to more youthful growth markets like India and Indonesia.09:09What Aspiration Looks Like in AsiaAndrea and Manisha discuss how status, luxury, and aspiration are expressed differently across markets and generations.11:47Why Value Beats DiscountsAndrea explains why consumers are strategically trading up and down, by prioritizing emotional and social value over price cuts.14:30The Ritual of Shopping FestivalsShe says the rise of double-digit shopping events reveals how e-commerce has become a budgeting strategy, as well as a form of entertainment.15:56Convenience as CultureFrom Japanese 7-Elevens to Indonesia’s social convenience stores and the rise of super apps, she states that convenience is taking on a deeper cultural meaning.19:38Who’s Really Setting Global Trends?Andrea and Manisha examine how Asia is increasingly exporting its culture, from K-pop and bubble tea to beauty trends and entertainment.20:41No Longer Passive Andrea explores how Asian consumers have become powerful brand participants, influencing everything from product direction to ethical accountability.23:11The Labubu LessonThe episode finishes with Andrea giving Manisha a blind box to open, as they reflect on why Labubus perfectly capture Asia’s growing soft power.Useful linkshttps://www.canvas8.com/sghttps://www.instagram.com/labubu/?hl=enhttps://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c20j01gqx1eohttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Bci1a1CF80https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AzCAwdp1uIQhttps://www.koreatimes.co.kr/lifestyle/trends/20260311/why-young-koreans-are-meeting-strangers-to-eat-french-fries-togetherhttps://songmontofficial.comhttps://www.gojek.io/Don’t miss outWe’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:tanktalksasia@asiaworks.comAnd don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.
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    25 mins
  • The Film That Changed Hong Kong Documentary Cinema | Robin Lee | Tank Talks Asia

    The Film That Changed Hong Kong Documentary Cinema | Robin Lee | Tank Talks Asia
    May 6 2026
    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha Tank talks to filmmaker Robin Lee, who shares the story behind “Four Trails”, his award-winning movie that documents one of Hong Kong’s most punishing endurance challenges (it combines Hong Kong’s four major hiking trails into one continuous 298-kilometre journey).Robin discusses what it took to turn this passion project into a piece of Hong Kong film history, as well as the documentary’s success, its growing international audience, and how it is helping to showcase a different side to Hong Kong.“Four Trails” has just been released in North America and will debut in Japan in July, but Robin is currently exploring opportunities for broader distribution. So if you can help connect the film with wider audiences internationally, he’d love to hear from you.Featured Voices Host: Manisha Tank Guest: Robin Lee, Award-Winning Filmmaker and Director of “Four Trails”Key takeawaysThe Four Trails challenge, which the film documents, pushes runners across 298 kilometers and more than 14,500 metres of elevation with no official prizes beyond personal achievement.Robin says his passion for action sports helped inspire him to make “Four Trails”.Making the film also became an endurance test for Robin, as it involved six months of planning, three days of filming, and a two year editing process.A composer was hired to create the film’s emotional soundtrack, which is carefully crafted to mirror the physical and psychological journey of the trail runners.“Four Trails” has now become one of Hong Kong’s most successful documentary releases and earned Robin a Best New Director award at the Hong Kong Film Awards.Chapter heads02:10When Passion Pays OffRobin describes the surreal moment he won a major award for a film that started as a passion project.03:40From Ski Films to Hong Kong MountainsHe reflects on his background in action sports filmmaking and how it influenced his decision to tell this story.04:37More Than a RaceRobin discusses why Four Trails is not really a competition, but a deeply personal test of resilience.08:11Capturing Human LimitsHe talks about the difficulty of filming the runners in moments of extreme physical and mental exhaustion.10:22An Endurance TestRobin shares how making the documentary became his own personal Four Trails challenge.12:01Editing 200 Hours of FootageHe describes the painstaking process of turning hundreds of hours of raw footage into a feature-length film.14:01Why Music MattersRobin explains how the score was specially composed to heighten the emotional journeys of the runners.15:42The Struggle for DistributionHe opens up about his two-year effort to secure distribution and how getting the film seen, in some ways, proved harder than making it.17:49Chow Yun Fat’s Surprise EndorsementRobin recounts the surreal moment when “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” star Chow Yun Fat requested a private screening of his film.19:30Global HopeHe talks about the ongoing efforts to find international distributors so the film can reach a wider audience. 20:44Showcasing a New Hong KongThe episode closes with Robin reflecting on how “Four Trails” is helping to reshape perceptions of Hong Kong and how he has now become part of the city’s film history.Useful linkshttps://www.fourtrails.hk/https://www.instagram.com/robintlee/https://www.instagram.com/hk4tuc/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ogms9773yi0https://www.facebook.com/lostatlasproductions/https://www.robinleevisuals.com/https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000334/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6sOEH3yrNlIDon’t miss outWe’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:tanktalksasia@asiaworks.comAnd don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia. Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.
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    25 mins
  • From a Village in Java to Glastonbury: How an All-Girl Indonesian Metal Band Rose to the World Stage | Marsya from the Voice Of Baceprot | Tank Talks Asia

    From a Village in Java to Glastonbury: How an All-Girl Indonesian Metal Band Rose to the World Stage | Marsya from the Voice Of Baceprot | Tank Talks Asia
    Apr 22 2026
    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, guest host Andrew Clark is joined by Voice of Baceprot’s frontwoman, Firda Marsya Kurnia, better known as Marsya. She talks about the Indonesian heavy metal group’s remarkable journey from meeting as school friends in a small village in West Java, to performing at events like Glastonbury and the Singapore F1.Marsya reflects on the role social media has played in helping propel the band to fame, as well as discussing their distinctive look. She also talks about why the band isn’t afraid to address social and political issues in their song lyrics.Featured Voices Host: Andrew Clark (interviewer); Manisha Tank (introduction)Guest: Firda Marsya Kurnia, Voice of Baceprot, vocalist and guitaristKey takeawaysMarsya talks about how the Voice of Baceprot trio were guided by a teacher at school, who became their mentor.She says that discovering metal music on their teacher’s laptop sparked their interest in the genre.Marsya discusses how the band uses music to address social issues, such as poverty, patriarchy and freedom of expression in Indonesia.She reflects on the role social media played in turning a low-quality music video into a viral moment that launched their international career.Marsya also highlights the importance of giving back and explains how the band have built a studio in their hometown to support other young musicians.Chapter heads00:00From a Small Town to the Global StageAndrew and Manisha introduce Voice of Baceprot, discussing the band’s roots in rural Indonesia and their rise to fame.03:25How It All BeganMarsya explains how a teacher played a pivotal role in helping form the band while the girls were at school.04:55Discovering MetalShe talks about how discovering the music of System of a Down and Rage Against the Machine sparked their interest in metal.06:00Naming the BandMarsya goes on to discuss the story behind Voice of Baceprot and the positive influence of their mentor.07:01Musical InfluencesShe discusses how global metal icons and the Indonesian music scene have contributed to shaping the band’s sound.08:28Joy and BraveryMarsya talks about key themes in their music and says that performing is an act of freedom and self-expression for the trio.10:04Challenging PerceptionsShe talks about how, by performing metal in the hijab, the girls have had to confront online and offline stereotypes.11:46Music and Social IssuesMarsya states that the band isn’t afraid to address issues like patriarchy and inequality in their lyrics.12:58Going Viral and Going GlobalShe explores how social media transformed their path and opened up international doors.15:47Life on TourShe shares insights from performing at Glastonbury to Wacken and tells us how it feels to meet your musical idols.20:40Giving Back at HomeMarsya explains that the band have returned to live in their home village and have built a studio there with the aim of supporting other talent.23:33The Next ChapterShe outlines the band’s upcoming plans and has some advice for other young women in Asia.Useful linkshttps://voiceofbaceprot.com/https://www.instagram.com/marsyavob/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DH4sQPdgOgkhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KJOtmMKwkcchttps://www.instagram.com/p/DAVd8ynyUuG/a-little-story-when-we-were-racing-our-musical-roar-at-the-singapore-f1-arena-f1/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OU420zwX7do&list=RDOU420zwX7do&start_radio=1https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iywaBOMvYLIhttps://www.instagram.com/alissawhitegluz/?hl=en-gbhttps://copenhell.dk/en/front-page/https://www.instagram.com/voiceofbaceprot/https://www.youtube.com/@VoiceofBaceprot https://www.tiktok.com/@voiceofbaceprot https://open.spotify.com/artist/32rI2a65NqHEnTAewmPNEC?si=r0wuYnZkSZOmpktT-Sr6Vg Don’t miss outWe’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:tanktalksasia@asiaworks.comAnd don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.
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    26 mins
  • From Hormuz to Hong Kong: How the Iran War is Redirecting Capital to Asia | Milken Symposium Hong Kong | Tank Talks Asia

    From Hormuz to Hong Kong: How the Iran War is Redirecting Capital to Asia | Milken Symposium Hong Kong | Tank Talks Asia
    Apr 15 2026
    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha Tank is joined by colleagues Andrew Clark and Yeen Chong for a debrief from the Milken Global Investors’ Symposium in Hong Kong. The symposium’s theme this year was “Capital in a Changing World”.Drawing on their conversations with policymakers, investors and entrepreneurs, they explore Asia’s economic resilience, China’s accelerating digital transformation, and the long-term growth story emerging across Southeast Asia.Featured Voices Hosts: Manisha Tank, Andrew Clark and Yeen ChongGuests: Dr. Rania Al-Mashat, Former Minister of Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation, EgyptProfessor Ben Shenglin, Dean, International Business School, Zhejiang UniversityPerry Wong, Managing Director and Senior Fellow, Milken Institute InternationalChristopher Ganis, Chief Investment Officer, Indonesia Investment AuthorityAdrian Li, Founder and Managing Partner, ACV CapitalZabrina Lo, Senior Editor, TatlerKey takeawaysWe discuss how geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are helping to accelerate capital flows into Asia, with cities like Hong Kong and Singapore seen as stable investment hubs.We talk about how China’s rapid digital transformation, especially in payments and infrastructure, is reshaping how capital moves and how economies function.We explore how Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia, is emerging as a major long-term investment opportunity, driven by demographics and domestic consumption.We look at how deglobalization is creating both uncertainty and opportunity, and is pushing countries to build resilience through regional collaborations like ASEAN.We consider how social and cultural perceptions in Asia are shifting, with younger generations increasingly choosing to pursue careers in the arts and creative industries.Chapter heads00:20Setting the SceneManisha introduces Andrew and Yeen and asks them to unpack their experience at the Milken Institute Global Investors’ Symposium in Hong Kong.02:15The Elephant in the Room: GeopoliticsThey discuss the impact of events in the Middle East and how global uncertainty is shaping investor sentiment.03:35Capital Flows in AsiaDr. Rania Al-Mashat talks about how capital is shifting across Asia, driven by a growing demand for stability and predictability.09:09China’s Digital LeapProfessor Ben Shenglin explains how digital payments and infrastructure are transforming China’s economy and capital movement.11:46Rethinking Growth in ChinaPerry Wong evaluates China’s approach to market correction, government intervention and long-term economic resilience.16:00Indonesia’s MomentChristopher Ganis outlines how deglobalization and domestic strength are positioning Indonesia as a key investment destination.20:21Southeast Asia’s Growth StoryAdrian Li shares why the region’s demographics and economic fundamentals make it one of the world’s most compelling opportunities.25:50Hong Kong’s Cultural EvolutionZabrina Lo reflects on the growing viability of careers in the arts and creative industries.Useful linkshttps://milkeninstitute.org/https://www.zju.edu.cn/english/https://www.britannica.com/biography/Adam-Smithhttps://asean.org/https://www.ina.go.id/https://hyrox.com/https://acv.vc/https://www.tatlerasia.com/Don’t miss outWe’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:tanktalksasia@asiaworks.comAnd don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.
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    28 mins
  • The Beatles, Imelda Marcos and the 'Snub' That Changed Everything | David Guerrero | Tank Talks Asia

    The Beatles, Imelda Marcos and the 'Snub' That Changed Everything | David Guerrero | Tank Talks Asia
    Apr 8 2026
    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, guest host Andrew Clark is joined by author and advertising executive, David Guerrero, to discuss The Beatles’ controversial visit to Manila in 1966. David’s new book “You Won’t See Me: When The Beatles Ghosted Imelda” revisits, from a Filipino perspective, the events that led to one of the band’s most infamous tour incidents.They discuss how miscommunication, cultural differences and media narratives have shaped the way a missed invitation to Imelda Marcos’ palace is remembered. Guerrero even suggests this Manila trip may have played a role in The Beatles’ decision to stop touring!Featured Voices Host: Andrew Clark (interviewer); Manisha Tank (introduction)Guest: David Guerrero, Author and Creative Chair of BBDO GuerreroKey takeawaysDavid explains how the 1966 Manila incident has, until now, largely been told from the band’s perspective, leaving the Filipino side underrepresented.He says the missed visit to the palace to meet the Filipino First Family stemmed from miscommunication, rather than intentional disrespect.David discusses how cultural differences played a major role in escalating the situation.He explains how media narratives, repeated over decades, have helped cement a simplified (and possibly unfair) version of events.David believes that the fallout, including security withdrawal and airport tensions, ultimately contributed to the band’s decision to stop touring.Chapter heads00:00Scene SettingAndrew and Manisha explain who David Guerrero is and talk about his cross-cultural upbringing and global career.06:06Formative YearsDavid reflects on how his interest in The Beatles first began and how Sgt. Pepper played a significant role for him in shaping a lasting connection to their music. 08:10A Different Lens on a Famous StoryAndrew provides some background to the story, while David outlines how The Beatles were subjected to intense media scrutiny wherever they went.14:06The Palace InvitationDavid details how excitement built ahead of The Beatles’ visit, which led to a poorly communicated invitation to Malacañang Palace being issued.17:08Miscommunication and Cultural NuanceHe goes on to discuss how assumptions and indirect communication led to the misunderstanding on both sides.19:45The Fans at the Heart of the StoryDavid shares an account from a group of Filipino fans, including their encounter with The Beatles at their hotel. 21:35Fallout and EscalationHe explains how the perceived disrespect to the First Family led to The Beatles having their security withdrawn.22:24The Airport Incident RevisitedDavid tries to separate fact from fiction as he details the band’s chaotic departure from Manila.24:03Shaping HistoryAndrew and David finish by discussing how, at the time, interviews with The Beatles helped cement stereotypes about the Philippines, despite a far more nuanced reality.Useful linkshttps://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLkh9JHyyHK-4RqQFXTCMb7djhlFgrVV1P&si=LWKYtXxmMSOEZo2V https://www.penguin.sg/book/you-wont-see-me/https://bbdoguerrero.com/https://dash.harvard.edu/entities/publication/2fb7a04a-cee3-4017-96e1-71c3f3e572a7https://rollingstonephilippines.com/music/the-beatles-1966-visit-philippines-manila/https://www.beatlesbible.com/1966/07/04/live-rizal-memorial-football-stadium-manila-philippines/https://wspartners.bbc.com/episode/w3ct2zvkDon’t miss outWe’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:tanktalksasia@asiaworks.comAnd don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia. Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.
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    27 mins
  • How Rugby Became Asia’s Biggest Sporting Festival: The Hong Kong Sevens at 50 | Jon Pallett and Jamie Farndale | Tank Talks Asia

    How Rugby Became Asia’s Biggest Sporting Festival: The Hong Kong Sevens at 50 | Jon Pallett and Jamie Farndale | Tank Talks Asia
    Mar 31 2026
    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, guest host Andrew Clark is joined by Jon Pallett and Jamie Farndale from Hong Kong China Rugby, to talk about the upcoming Hong Kong Sevens which is preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary.They talk about what makes the Sevens such a thrilling global spectacle, the evolution of the tournament and how it continues to grow as both a sporting and cultural event. And they even divulge some top tips on which players and teams to watch out for this year!Featured Voices Host: Andrew ClarkGuests: Jon Pallett, Head of Communications, Hong Kong China RugbyJamie Farndale, General Manager Club Development & Sustainability, Hong Kong China RugbyKey takeawaysJon and Jamie talk about how the Hong Kong Rugby Sevens manages to create a festival-like atmosphere which differentiates it from other rugby tournaments.They say that the tournament’s evolution over the past 50 years has broadened its appeal to diverse and international audiences.They believe the move to Hong Kong’s Kai Tak stadium has enhanced the Sevens experience, at the same time as preserving traditions like the South Stand’s party vibe.They discuss how the Sevens plays a crucial role in grassroots rugby development, inspiring youth participation across Hong Kong and beyond.They say the Hong Kong Sevens is a bucket-list experience for sports fans worldwide.Chapter heads02:25What is Rugby Sevens?Jamie explains how the game is much more fast-paced (and has less players) than a traditional rugby game. He also talks about how relentless and physically demanding Sevens matches are.03:36The Hong Kong Sevens ExperienceJon says the tournament manages to combine sport, entertainment and fan engagement to create a really unique festival atmosphere.04:20Then vs Now: The Evolution of the EventThey discuss how the Sevens has transformed over the years from an expat-focused event into a more inclusive, family-friendly global attraction.07:12The Legendary South StandJamie gives his take on how the South Stand has weathered the move to the new Sevens stadium at Kai Tak.09:46Beyond the Pitch: Growing the GameJon talks about how Hong Kong China Rugby is inspiring youth participation in rugby and trying to expand the sport’s reach.10:45Economic PowerhouseJon shares some insights into the economic impact of the Sevens and how it compares to other global sporting events.12:03A Bucket List Sporting EventBoth Jon and Jamie say the Hong Kong Sevens is a must-visit experience for international fans.13:08Top Tourist TipsJon and Jamie each reveal their must-see itinerary for visitors coming to Hong Kong.16:41Celebrating 50 Years at Kai TakThey talk about how the event’s 50th anniversary is being marked, with expanded programming and enhanced fan experiences, while also recognising its heritage.19:07The Future of Rugby in Hong KongJon and Jamie give their opinion on upcoming international competitions and share their long-term vision for the sport.21:36Who’s Going to Win?Jon and Jamie reveal who they think will come out on top at this year’s Hong Kong Sevens.Useful linkshttps://hksevens.com/https://hksevens.com/tickets/ticketshttps://hksevens.com/news/flying-in-for-the-hk-7s-here-are-7-things-you-need-to-knowhttps://www.hkrugby.com/https://www.svns.com/en/fixtures-and-results/svnshttps://www.kaitaksportspark.com.hk/venues-spaces/4https://www.rugbyworldcup.com/2027/enhttps://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/index.htmlDon’t miss outWe’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:tanktalksasia@asiaworks.comAnd don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia.Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.
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    26 mins
  • Inside the Business of the World’s Fastest Growing Sport | Victor Cui | Tank Talks Asia

    Inside the Business of the World’s Fastest Growing Sport | Victor Cui | Tank Talks Asia
    Mar 25 2026
    In this episode of Tank Talks Asia, Manisha Tank is joined by Global Sports Executive, Victor Cui, to talk about how he’s bringing the EPIC World Championship (the world’s first large-scale amateur international pickleball tournament) to Singapore and why pickleball’s accessibility is fueling its rapid growth.Drawing on nearly three decades of experience in sport, Victor also discusses the economics of sports participation, the evolving Olympic model, and why the next generation is redefining how sport fits into modern lifestyles.Featured Voices Host: Manisha TankGuest: Victor Cui, Global Sports Executive, Co-founder of ONE Championship and founding partner of EPIC World ChampionshipKey takeawaysVictor believes pickleball’s inclusivity is helping to drive its global rise, because it allows players of different ages, abilities, and backgrounds to compete together.He says pickleball surged in North America first, but that Asia will be the sport’s next growth wave due to its large population and accessible infrastructure.Victor explains how the EPIC World Championship introduces a poker-style prize pool that grows as more players enter the competition.He states that the future of sports events is experiential, which is why EPIC aims to offer food, music and other social experiences on the sidelines of the competition.Victor talks about how sport is evolving, as younger generations increasingly view sport and wellness as social and lifestyle activities, rather than purely competitive pursuits.Chapter heads00:26The Pickleball BoomAn introduction to why one of the fastest-growing sports in the world is attracting both passionate fans and vocal critics in Singapore.02:58The Origin of EPICVictor Cui explains how conversations with friends sparked the idea for the EPIC World Championship, and how players qualify.05:52A New Kind of Prize PoolHe details the innovative poker-style model behind the prize purse, which grows as more players enter.07:20F1-Style Event EnergyVictor says EPIC aims to be more than just a pickleball tournament, and talks about how the competition will combine sport with music, food, and festival-style entertainment.09:01When Sports Meet Urban LivingHe explains how EPIC is trying to balance pickleball’s popularity, at the same time as responding to concerns about noise and community impact.11:06The Business of Participation SportsVictor notes that low barriers to entry and being able to use shared infrastructure make pickleball economically very attractive.14:29Why Youth Sports Culture Differs by RegionHe reflects on how attitudes toward youth sports differ between North America and Asia.16:31Do the Olympics Still Matter?Victor discusses how the Olympic model is evolving to deliver legacy value and stronger commercial partnerships.20:18The Integrity Challenge in Modern SportsHe says the growth of sports betting is changing the risks and governance of professional competition.22:14More Irons in the Fire?To conclude, Manisha asks Victor what we can expect from him next.Useful linkshttps://pickleball.com/https://epicworldchampionship.com/https://www.singaporepickleball.com.sg/https://www.ft.com/content/e0d8801b-e8f6-4b58-9d2d-814469f358fehttps://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/50-badmintonpickleball-courts-to-be-built-in-singapore-over-next-5-yearshttps://www.onefc.com/https://olympic.ca/https://www.the-wolfpack.com/https://gastrobeats.com.sg/https://thesnowleague.com/Don’t miss outWe’re on a mission to bring the real Asia — its thinkers, builders, dreamers, and disruptors — to global ears. So if you know someone who would be a great guest or want to contact the team, please email:tanktalksasia@asiaworks.comAnd don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and share so you don’t miss the next episode of Tank Talks Asia. Tank Talks Asia is an AsiaWorks production.
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    24 mins