By providing flexible, subscription-based access to smartphones, laptops, and other digital devices, Cinch addresses both the strong consumer appetite for the latest technology and the high cost barrier of outright ownership, making technology more accessible to a broader market. Monk’s Hill Ventures invested in Cinch based on clear market opportunities and the company’s strong execution capabilities. Our thesis is driven by three key insights: 

1. Strong consumer demand for affordability and flexibility in a market where high-end devices remain financially out of reach for many.
2. Untapped B2B leasing potential, providing businesses with cost-effective access to technology.
3. Sustainability as a growing priority, where extending device lifecycles and reducing e-waste contribute to environmental goals

The founding team—Mahir Hamid, Hisham Aziz, and Binh Thai—brings a strong blend of expertise across private equity, data engineering, and risk management, all essential to driving scalable and enduring growth.

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Large and Underserved Consumer Market 

Southeast Asia’s consumer electronics market is valued at approximately $55 billion. However, the high cost of premium devices, which can amount to 200% of the average regional disposable income, creates significant unmet demand for more affordable options. Additionally, the refurbished segment remains underdeveloped, representing just 10% of this market, compared to 25% in North America.

Cinch’s subscription-based model directly addresses this gap by enabling its customers to rent electronics instead of purchasing them outright. This significantly reduces upfront costs, providing access to the latest premium technology to a broader audience.

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B2B Leasing: A Largely Untapped Opportunity 

The business segment of the Southeast Asian market is also a largely untapped opportunity. Electronics leasing accounts for just 2% of the market—far below the 20% penetration seen in more developed regions like the US and Europe. As digital transformation accelerates, companies increasingly require flexible, cost-efficient solutions to equip their teams with the latest devices without the strain of substantial capital expenditures.

Cinch is strategically positioned to capitalize on this opportunity, offering enterprises a low-capital investment option that allows for regular device upgrades and predictable budgeting, a particularly attractive solution amid rapid digitalization.

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Driving Sustainability

With sustainability becoming a key priority for both consumers and enterprises, Cinch’s Device-as-a-Service model directly contributes to environmental goals by extending device lifecycles and reducing electronic waste. This commitment to the circular economy not only addresses ecological concerns but also strengthens Cinch’s brand value and market appeal.

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Proven Traction and Strong Execution

Cinch has demonstrated strong operational execution and strategic market positioning.. Strategic collaborations, including key partnerships with Samsung and the Singapore Press Holdings (SPH), underscore the company’s ability to secure and maintain high-profile business relationships.

Central to its success is Cinch’s subscription model, characterized by predictable revenue streams, high customer retention, and strong unit economics. Additionally, its robust, data-driven underwriting approach ensures sustainable margins and capital-efficient growth.

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Conclusion

Mahir and his co-founders have demonstrated strong passion, market knowledge, and commitment to fundamentally changing how technology is accessed across Southeast Asia. Mahir’s clear vision and the team’s relentless execution have rapidly validated Cinch's innovative model. At Monk’s Hill Ventures, our investments are ultimately bets on visionary founders like Mahir, whose ambition and perseverance create lasting impact.

Cinch stands at the forefront of an exciting shift toward greater accessibility and sustainability in technology consumption. With strong early traction, strategic market positioning, and a compelling business model, we believe Cinch is uniquely positioned to become a defining company in the region’s consumer electronics ecosystem.

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