About
About Michael Cutler
I'm a Fractional CTO and AI expert based in Singapore, currently leading innovation at SC Ventures by Standard Chartered where I drive venture building through emerging AI, Web3, and quantum computing technologies.
What I Do
As Fractional CTO at SC Ventures, I spearhead the AI Lab initiative, bridging cutting-edge research with real-world applications across our portfolio companies. I work across the full innovation lifecycle—from early discovery to scaled deployment—developing ventures like Qatalyst (AI-powered sustainability insights) and upcoming collaborations with UBS on regulatory compliance transformation.
I'm also an Adjunct Lecturer at Singapore Management University, teaching Advanced Certificate in Fintech, where I share insights on harnessing AI, blockchain, and analytics in the digital era.
My Expertise
- Artificial Intelligence: From generative AI applications to machine learning pipelines, with deep expertise in emerging models and open-source innovations
- Web3 & Blockchain: Extensive experience building decentralized solutions, from tokenization platforms to carbon credit systems
- Venture Building: Hands-on experience taking concepts from design thinking workshops through proof-of-concept to production
- Cloud Architecture: Designed highly-scalable solutions across AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud Platform
- ESG Technology: Pioneering the use of emerging technologies to tackle Environmental, Social, and Governance challenges
Background
My journey spans venture building, enterprise consulting, and climate technology. At KPMG (6 years), I built blockchain-based loyalty management solutions generating multimillion-dollar revenues and led cloud migrations for government systems. As CTO of Poseidon Foundation, I tokenized carbon credits and launched retail carbon-offset solutions, including a successful pilot with Ben & Jerry's that demonstrated a 26% increase in sales.
I studied Computational Physics at Heriot-Watt University before leaving in my third year in 2001 to pursue a full-time career opportunity. I have been granted patents for media systems and personalized recommendation engines.
Current Focus
I'm dedicated to the progression of open-source AI and believe the future belongs to decentralized innovation rather than centralized, proprietary systems. My recent writing explores how breakthroughs like DeepSeek's R1 model prove that algorithmic ingenuity can outperform trillion-dollar data centers.
I actively collaborate with leading tech partners for privileged access to nascent services and work on meaningful projects alongside development banks and NGOs to address global challenges.
Beyond Technology
As a trusted technology advisor and angel investor, I support startups in the Web3, AI, and ESG sectors, helping accelerate fundraising for early-stage companies. I'm passionate about democratizing technology and believe the next breakthrough could emerge from anywhere—a principle that guides both my investment philosophy and approach to innovation.
Based in Singapore, I'm always interested in connecting with fellow innovators, entrepreneurs, and anyone passionate about using technology to solve meaningful problems.