#Singapore #Hero Esports #Danny Tang #Esports Industry

Hero Esports CEO Speaks at CNBC CONVERGE LIVE

In March 2025, Hero Esports, the leading esports organization in Asia, showcased its industry influence at the inaugural CNBC CONVERGE LIVE conference held in Singapore. The event, featuring business leaders and innovators, brought together minds interested in technological advances, sustainability, and the evolving landscapes of business and entertainment.

Danny Tang, the Co-Founder and CEO of Hero Esports, was a keynote speaker and engaged in a compelling fireside chat with CNBC's senior technology reporter, Arjun Kharpal. The discussion, titled Inside the Billion Dollar E-sports Industry, delved into the lucrative expansion of esports and the transformative role of artificial intelligence in accelerating its growth.

During her talk, Danny emphasized her gratitude for the opportunity to speak to such a distinguished audience, which included representatives from Singapore's Economic Development Board. She underscored Asia's pivotal role in the esports realm, noting, "The global outreach of tournaments reflects the significant interest that fuels growth in this sector. We are merely at the nascent stage of what promises to be a vibrant first century of esports."

Danny elaborated on how esports functions similarly to traditional sports and bring together communities around shared passions. She pointed out the thriving gaming culture in Asia, particularly highlighting early mobile gaming adoption, which has created deeper connections with audiences. With accessibility provided through smartphones, gaming and competition can occur anytime, anywhere—a significant feature of modern esports engagement.

The conversation also touched on the evolution of business models within the esports landscape. Danny acknowledged the presence of multiple revenue streams, stating that game developers are keen to invest in the esports ecosystem to enhance community connection with their games. Furthermore, various brands are discovering value in esports sponsorship, realizing that this platform provides access to a diverse audience—a key demographic characterized by youthful energy and significant representation across gender lines.

Brands traditionally outside the realm of gaming are now reaping rewards through esports partnerships. Danny mentioned, "It's heartening to see a variety of brands—from jewelry to automotive—recognizing the dynamic audience they can engage through esports platforms. These brands aren’t limitations to niche segments anymore. They understand that to connect with the youth, investing in esports is no longer optional. It’s essential."

The panel discussion, held at Singapore's Jewel Changi Airport, was one of the highlights of the conference, which took place on March 12-13, 2025. Danny's insights reflect the ongoing transformation in how industries perceive and engage with the esports community.

About Danny Tang

Danny Tang's journey led her from the role of CFO to Co-Founder and CEO of Hero Esports, showcasing her leadership in sculpting the strategic direction of a powerhouse in the esports sector. Before her tenure at Hero Esports, she honed her skills with notable firms, including Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. and China Development Bank Capital, earning respect and accolades along the way, such as being named one of the Top 100 Asian-Pacific Women-Powered Leaders in 2022.

Under her stewardship, Hero Esports has evolved since its inception in 2016, now operating 12 offices and enhancing the esports experience for over 800 million fans through more than 7,000 annual matches. The company also facilitated prestigious tournaments including the Olympic Esports Week and maintains partnerships with top gaming publishers.

Hero Esports continues to champion the esports movement, most recently by launching the Esports Asian Champions League, underscoring its commitment to cultivating international competitive gaming. As gaming trends evolve, Hero Esports remains a critical player in shaping the future landscape of esports worldwide.