Decided to do whatever I like, over here.
Today's topic will be AI. Interestingly, AI is something that is here to stay, and it's a big game changer, not necessarily in a positive way.
As I got into vibe coding earlier in 2026, it was an exciting time when I coded all of my apps and software, reducing my biz costs by more than 80%. I have improved on the functions, making them work exactly the way I need. I have also added more functions along the way and, well, I have a proper ERP system for my small business at less than $100 a month.
AI has allowed me to catch up with software developers. All of this would have been very pricey just a decade ago. For example, it cost me $2.4k to convert a static website to one with e-commerce functionality (Magento).
However, I have noted that I have lost my unfair advantage too. I have been thriving with some innovative concepts and strategic and tactical decisions. It seems that with AI and correct prompting, more people will be able to think like me.
Come to think of the pre-internet era, it was flying and snail mail to get in communication with factories. Get the product in, get the branding, mark up, open a shop and sell.
Then came the internet and more platforms: Alibaba to source factories, communication via WeChat or email, an e-commerce store and sell.
As China is going B2C, they are selling directly already. We can take a look at PDD. For a dog pram which used to retail at $200–$300+, we can now get it at $50+ (though different models) via PDD. The only downsides are that you don't know the quality of the product you are actually getting and the long wait. So, retail is down.
F&B, they are dominating in Singapore right now. They are playing the long game. We have read the news on so many decades-old businesses closing down. So, F&B is out.
Service? Nah, it's just so darn competitive now. Some years back, PLB could get a good market share and high commissions with their marketing style (aka very nice videos), but you can see now, property agents can get a decent video up for $50.
From the limited network I have, I am just hearing how tough their businesses are.
We can only hope AI advancement means that there will be AI and robotics working for all humans, and we can just stay at home and shake legs.