The Business Pre‑Nup vs. The Business Divorce In our previous article, we discussed the importance of a shareholders’ agreement as the “business pre-nup” i.e., setting ground rules for managing a business together as co-owners. But what happens when someone decides to leave the partnership? Every business partnership has two chapters: coming together and parting ways. The Sale & Purchase Agreement (SPA) governs the second. If the shareholders' agreement is the "pre-nup", then the SPA is the divorce agreement drafted before the wedding. One party exits and the SPA decides who keeps what, how the price is paid, and who bears responsibility if any surprises come up later. For example, Party A and Party B have been business partners for years.…
Image by Freepik Every company strives to navigate its strategic course with the lightest possible asset footprint. Yet, finding the optimal balance can resemble solving a complex puzzle. Executives often grapple with a perplexing choice when considering the heft of their assets. On one hand, there is the allure of asset-heavy, vertically integrated models that promise unmatched control. But do they also tether too much capital and lack the nimbleness needed in today's ever-shifting business environment? On the flip side, asset-light business models offer newfound flexibility, but can they be effectively managed? Do they raise concerns with the looming risks of Intellectual Property (IP) leaks and potential depreciation in value? "The art of business lies in the ability to make…
Rooted Leadership: What Business Can Learn from the Natural World The modern business landscape pushes for relentless acceleration, propelled by an undercurrent of continuous innovation, rapid scaling, and an 'always-on' operational mindset. Leaders are under pressure to deliver continuous growth and chase new milestones which often inadvertently cultivate a "hustle" culture. However, this pursuit of acceleration exacts a heavy toll: employee burnout, resource depletion, and a struggle for sustained relevance. We have collectively fallen for the myth of endless productivity, believing that the more efficient our processes, the more work we can (and should) undertake. This mindset traps us in a loop of constant doing, neglecting the essential value of pause, renewal, and strategic timing. In contrast, the natural world…
We are delighted to sit down with Mr Teo, a visionary businessman who is an architect by training. His influence extends far beyond his professional endeavours into the heart of Singapore’s arts community. With a lifelong passion for fostering creativity and culture, Mr Teo has become a key figure in enhancing Singapore’s artistic landscape through generous support, insightful collaborations, and an unwavering commitment to the arts. In this interview, we delve into the driving forces behind his dedication, his perspectives on the future of the arts, and the profound impact of his initiatives. We’ll explore the unique challenges and rewards of supporting the arts and uncover his inspiring journey as an arts advocate and founder of The Private Museum. Architecture:…
Image by Jirsak via Shutterstock In today's fast-paced, interconnected business world, a crisis can present itself without warning, catching even the most prepared organizations off-guard. A twist in market dynamics, an unforeseen operational failure, or a global phenomenon such as the COVID-19 pandemic - there's an array of situations that may impose severe challenges for any business. According to statistics from FEMA, nearly 40% of small businesses never reopen after a disaster, demonstrating the significant impact a crisis can have on an organization's survival. “Crisis management is the art of avoiding trouble when you can, and managing it well when you can’t.” The importance of crisis management cannot be overstated. A robust, action-oriented strategy not only mitigates the immediate impact but also shields long-term reputation and shareholder…
