Walter de Oude is a visionary fintech entrepreneur and the Founder of Chocolate Finance, a groundbreaking savings platform offering global users superior returns on their spare cash—without the rigidity of traditional fixed deposits. Driven by a mission to make money work harder for everyone, Walter is redefining how everyday people grow their wealth. Previously, he founded Singapore Life (Singlife) in 2014 and scaled it to a valuation of S$3.2 billion in just six years, making it one of Singapore’s most successful fintech stories. In parallel, he established Chocolate Ventures, an early-stage VC platform where he invites like-minded investors to co-invest in high-growth opportunities where his experience adds value. Known for his bold, customer-centric approach to finance and innovation, Walter continues to lead at the frontier of financial transformation—creating accessible, impactful solutions that challenge the status quo and unlock smarter financial futures for individuals and investors alike.
Manuel Recto is a seasoned Business Strategist and Executive Coach with over 38 years of experience in financial management, business development, and international market strategy. Retired Vice President of Unilab, Southeast Asia’s largest healthcare conglomerate, he has led Finance and International Market Development across healthcare, pharmaceuticals, FMCG, and natural products sectors, with exposure to Asia-Pacific, Middle East, North America, Africa, and the EU. An Associate Certified Executive Coach (ICF-ACC), Manuel mentors C-level executives and startup entrepreneurs, helping them enhance analytical, problem-solving, and strategic decision-making skills. He guides organizations in creating shareholder value, building execution-focused cultures, and achieving sustainable growth. Manuel also serves as a Part-time Senior Lecturer at De La Salle University’s Ramon V. del Rosario College of Business and is an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion at the Roman Catholic Diocese of Pasig, combining leadership, strategy, and ethical guidance.
