A new US-SEA adventure shall begin its journey to bridge Southeast Asian innovation with American capital markets
Seri Kembangan, Selangor, May 7 – PORTMAN College today served as the venue for a landmark signing ceremony between Dato’ Sri Matthew Yeoh and Mr. Ernie Chen, marking the official formation of American Investments & Capital LLC, a new entity under The American Group of Companies. The company aims to connect high-potential Southeast Asian businesses with capital opportunities in the United States, particularly through access to the NASDAQ and other U.S. investment platforms.
This Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) shall become the representation of a strategic initiative to foster cross-border investment, accelerate IPO readiness, and develop regional talent—particularly in sectors such as technology, education, healthcare, and consumer services.
American Investments & Capital LLC will serve as a bridge for U.S. investors seeking exposure to high-growth opportunities in Southeast Asia (SEA). Beyond fund management, the entity will also offer strategic value through advisory roles, commercialization support, board appointments, and potential SPAC (Special Purpose Acquisition Company) participation.
“America can never truly understand Southeast Asia better than Asians do,” said Mr. Ernie Chen, Co-founder and Director. “As someone who has operated across Southeast Asia for over 21 years and lived in the U.S. for nearly 9, I understand both business cultures deeply. This initiative gives U.S. investors not only access but also insight into the SEA market. I’m also grateful to Dato’ Sri Matthew Yeoh, whose vision and determination made this partnership possible.”
Dato’ Sri Matthew Yeoh added, “I’ve always envisioned a bridge that creates real value between America and Southeast Asia. After years of searching for the right collaborator, I found the ideal partner in Mr. Ernie Chen. Together, we are committed to empowering regional unicorns with the American Dream—one that benefits both regions, their businesses, and their people.”
The signing ceremony attracted investors, startup founders, corporate executives, and media, all gathered to witness the formation of this transcontinental venture. Hosted at PORTMAN College @ Mines2, the event symbolizes a new era of collaboration aimed at redefining how Southeast Asian innovation reaches global capital markets.
