The School of Marketing and Management (SoMM) at Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) recently hosted a highly engaging speaking engagement titled “Leveraging AI and Alternative Investments for Business Growth in 2025.”

Led by Ms Harjinder Kaur (Senior Lecturer and IAP Coordinator, SoMM at APU), the speaking engagement attracted a diverse audience of students across multiple academic disciplines, all eager to explore the latest advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and investment strategies.

The speaking engagement featured esteemed guest speaker Mr Hen Zhi Neng, Branch Manager of Stockbroking and Investment at RHB Investment Bank Berhad, who captivated students with real-world insights into the transformative role of AI in business operations and investment planning. 

Key Discussion Points

Firstly, Mr Hen discussed AI in business operations, highlighting how AI is streamlining processes by automating routine tasks and enhancing client interactions through tools such as chatbots and robo-advisors.

Secondly, Mr Hen delved into AI in stockbroking and portfolio management, where he shared real-world examples, including JP Morgan’s “LOXM” and Zerodha’s trading tools, which are revolutionising trade execution and risk management.

Thirdly, the speaking engagement focused on AI in sales and marketing, where Mr Hen showcased how virtual AI live streamers on platforms like JD.com and Taobao are transforming digital marketing.

Fourthly, Mr Hen introduced the concept of alternative investment strategies, encouraging students to explore diverse options beyond conventional stocks and bonds.

Lastly, Mr Hen emphasised the importance of understanding investor profiles and initial public offering (IPO) insights, where he explained how tailored strategies such as thematic investing, evaluating economic moats, and analysing price-to-earnings (PE) ratios can lead to more informed and forward-looking investment decisions.

Engagement and Learning Opportunities

The speaking engagement concluded with an interactive Q&A segment, during which students posed thought-provoking questions about AI applications, market trends, and smart investment decisions. 

This dynamic exchange allowed students to gain practical knowledge and expand their understanding of industry-relevant topics. 

Student Perspectives

A few perspective from students:

1. Chit Naing, Foundation in Computing and Technology: “I truly appreciated the speaking engagement as it provided practical knowledge on where and how to invest wisely in today’s market, while also offering eye-opening insights into how AI is transforming investment strategies through data-driven decision-making and innovative growth opportunities.”
2. Tan Teoh Zi Qing, Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Marketing Management with a specialism in Digital Marketing: “It was an eye-opening speaking engagement that not only deepened my understanding of financial planning, but also highlighted the pivotal role of technology, particularly AI, in shaping the future of investment and business strategies.”
3. Naveen Mahendran, Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science (Cyber Security): “I truly appreciated the speaking engagement as it offered a comprehensive and insightful look into how AI is revolutionising the investment landscape, deepening my understanding of market trends and the power of data-driven decision-making.”
4. Philip Christian Parlagutan, Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in International Business Management: “I found the speaking engagement incredibly insightful as it showcased how AI is transforming business operations through powerful tools and real-world applications, while also offering valuable insights into IPOs that greatly enhanced my understanding of the broader financial landscape.

Reflections on the Speaking Engagement

Ms Harjinder highlighted that the insightful and engaging speaking engagement provided students with a valuable opportunity to gain first-hand knowledge from an experienced investment professional, deepening their understanding of how AI is reshaping business operations and modern investment strategies through real-world examples and expert insights.

She further emphasised that it was inspiring to witness the students actively participate with such enthusiasm and curiosity throughout the speaking engagement.

“We remain committed to fostering learning experiences that bridge the gap between academia and industry, empowering students with the knowledge, confidence, and future-ready mindset to embrace technological advancements like AI and make informed, strategic decisions in their professional journeys.”

In contrast, Assoc Prof Dr Devinder Kaur (Head, SoMM at APU) emphasised that talks by industry experts on topics such as financial planning and investment are vital for students’ personal growth, equipping them to thrive in the AI-driven era and contribute meaningfully to society.

“To which, it highlights APU’s dedication to fostering not only academic excellence, but also the holistic development of its students.”