After a brutal period that hurt startups and companies with exposure to the US, green shoots are emerging in Asia in some sectors.

Firms based in France and Singapore claimed the top prizes at the ninth edition of the global innovation competition, backed by Temasek Foundation with new support from Singapore government agency A*Star.

Studio EB Despite a slowdown in gender-inclusive commitments from traditional western markets, the Impact Investment Exchange (IIX) has pushed ahead with plans to scale women-focused 'orange capital', while forging new alliances to expand the 'orange economy' in emerging Asia.

Capital from Gulf nations are shifting eastward and Asia is emerging a a key destination for green investment. But turning this momentum into lasting impact will require the region to address gaps in ESG reporting standards and rules.