Is equity crowdfunding (ECF) really a viable option for serious investors, or is it a playground for “dumb money” and bloated valuations? On Enterprise Explores, we unpack the data, dispel myths, and debate the future of this funding model with Bikesh Lakhmichand of 1337 Capital and Kashminder Singh of pitchIN.

Drawing on the latest data from the Securities Commission of Malaysia, we explore the decline in fundraising, shifting investor trends, and growing concerns around deal quality, valuations, and exits.

Kashminder and Bikesh discuss the shift toward larger campaigns and dividend-paying companies, the rise in retail investor participation, and address the perception of “low quality deals” in ECF. They also tackle hot-button issues like inflated valuations, limited exit pathways, and the evolving role of angel and institutional investors; alongside insights into due diligence standards, secondary markets, and proposed improvements for the industry.