Local Power Networks
In most Southeast Asian markets, the economic lifeblood is not entirely controlled by the free market but is highly concentrated in the hands of a few influential local family conglomerates. Through intricate political-business networks, these conglomerates hold enormous sway over access to key industries, policymaking, and the allocation of public resources. This research direction is dedicated to charting this complex "power map," helping clients understand who the real "insiders" in the local market are. We will analyze the business empires, generational successions, and political connections of these families to help clients make the wisest decisions when choosing partners, managing government relations, or facing unfair competition.
- Identifying and analyzing the most dominant family conglomerates in target countries (e.g., Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand) and their monopolistic positions in key industries (e.g., finance, real estate, telecommunications).
- Analyzing the formal and informal networks of connections between these business empires and political elites (including the military, royalty, or ruling parties).
- Assessing the changes in management style, new investment preferences, and potential internal family conflicts brought by the "second/third generation" successors of these business empires.
- Analyzing the "hidden advantages" enjoyed by these local giants and the barriers faced by foreign firms in public tenders, license applications, and regulatory approvals.
- Providing clients with strategies for competition, cooperation, or avoidance when facing entrenched local protectionism and vested interest groups.