[JPM2025] J.P. Morgan’s executive discusses APAC’s healthcare investment landscape

The 2025 J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference, held in San Francisco, has emerged as the industry’s most significant annual event, gathering global leaders in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and investment to discuss the future of medicine and innovation.

Known for shaping the industry’s agenda, the conference this year focuses on pivotal topics such as advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), the growing demand for weight-loss drugs, and the implications of geopolitical shifts, including the return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency.

With over 9,000 attendees and presentations from more than 500 companies, the event underscores the growing convergence between healthcare and technology, offering a platform for companies to unveil breakthrough innovations, explore partnerships, and attract investment.

Amid this backdrop of high-stakes discussions and industry-defining announcements, Korea Biomedical Review had an email interview with David Lau, Co-head of China Investment Banking and Co-head of Asia Healthcare Investment Banking at J.P. Morgan, for the third consecutive year to hear more about the conference and his prediction for the healthcare industry in 2024.

According to Lau, J.P. Morgan has been actively supporting its Asia-Pacific clients in achieving their strategic growth and innovation goals by utilizing its expertise in cross-border mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and strategic partnerships.

“We’re helping regional companies expand their global footprint and raise capital for high-growth healthcare firms, such as biotech companies working in advanced fields like ADCs and bispecific antibodies,” Lau said. “This strategic focus enables J.P. Morgan to play a pivotal role in connecting Asia’s healthcare innovators with global markets.”

Still, Asian healthcare startups face unique hurdles when seeking investments to scale globally.

These include navigating complex regulatory frameworks, meeting stringent manufacturing standards, and building international credibility.

“Many startups struggle with brand recognition and track records in global markets,” Lau said. “J.P. Morgan addresses these challenges by offering strategic advisory services, connecting startups with global partners, and facilitating access to growth capital through equity, debt, or private placements.”

When asked about the potential impact of political shifts, such as a hypothetical return of the Trump administration, Lau remained optimistic.

“While a change in administration may bring near-term uncertainties, I’m confident that with greater clarity, all parties will work collaboratively toward mutually beneficial solutions,” he said.

Lau also discussed the effect of U.S. drug price reforms on the global biopharmaceutical sector. While these changes could initially reduce R&D investments in the U.S., he noted that emerging markets like China could offset this gap by offering lower-cost development opportunities.

Lau also discussed the transformative impact of advanced technologies like AI, big data, and cloud computing on healthcare.

“These innovations are revolutionizing precision medicine, optimizing drug discovery, and enhancing patient outcomes,” he said.

With tech giants like NVIDIA and AWS actively entering the healthcare space, Lau sees significant investment opportunities in AI-powered diagnostics, cloud-based healthcare infrastructure, and real-time analytics.

“J.P. Morgan is actively helping clients explore partnerships with these tech leaders, secure capital for digital transformation, and identify growth opportunities where technology drives value creation,” he said.

Lau also explained that the Covid-19 pandemic had accelerated the adoption of digital healthcare and telemedicine platforms.

“The surge in demand for remote care and digital health solutions is a key driver of investment,” he said.

For Korean and Asian companies aiming to secure global competitiveness, he advised focusing on scaling innovative solutions, ensuring regulatory compliance across diverse markets, and integrating advanced technologies to improve care delivery.

“Strategic partnerships with global healthcare providers and IT firms, along with targeted R&D investments, are essential for expanding market reach and differentiation on the global stage,” he said.

Looking ahead, Lau expressed optimism about the biotech and healthcare sectors in 2025. He highlighted the potential of advanced therapies like ADCs and bispecific antibodies and the importance of cross-border partnerships and capital raises as companies seek to scale and access global markets.

“Despite market volatility, I believe that ongoing innovation and increasing demand will drive substantial value in the sector,” he said.

Regarding this year’s J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference, Lau emphasized the importance of addressing critical issues like precision medicine, the integration of AI in drug discovery, and evolving regulatory landscapes.

“This year’s conference features more in-depth discussions on emerging technologies and increased participation from tech giants, reflecting the growing convergence of healthcare and technology,” he said.