Singapore’s latest Household Expenditure Survey says retirees spend about $1,384 a month. But is that really enough? With longer lifespans, rising costs, and evolving CPF rules, retirement planning has never been more important. In this episode, we unpack retirement expenses across income levels, the impact of inflation, and how CPF LIFE payouts and retirement sums (BRS, FRS, ERS) translate into monthly income. Plus, hear real stories from retirees on stretching their dollars and get practic...
With T-bill yields falling below 2%, many investors are searching for better options. In this episode of the DollarsAndSense Podcast, recorded live at MooFest 2025, Timothy sits down with Bertram, Investment Director and Portfolio Manager at Amova Asset Management (formerly Nikko Asset Management). They discuss why bond ETFs are gaining traction, how they work, and why they may offer Singapore investors both diversification and steady returns. • Learn the difference between government and co...
With interest rates shifting, inflation pressures, and global uncertainty, more investors are taking a fresh look at fixed income in 2025. In this special episode of the DollarsAndSense Podcast (recorded live at MooFest 2025), our co-founder Dinesh Dayani sits down with Kylie Soh, Client Portfolio Manager for Fixed Income at Fullerton Fund Management, to unpack: • Why investors are paying more attention to bonds today • Key trends shaping Asia and Singapore’s credit markets • Whether bonds ...
Buying a property is one of the biggest financial decisions for Singaporeans and one debate always comes up: Should you buy freehold or leasehold? In this episode of the DollarsAndSense Podcast, we dive into the trade-offs, insights, and real-life stories behind freehold and leasehold properties. From why some leasehold condos outperform freehold, to the risks of older developments, en bloc potential, and how landlords and homeowners should think differently, and uncover what really matters ...
In this DollarsAndSense Podcast special episode recorded live at MooFest 2025, Our host and Co-Founder, Timothy Ho, chats with Binni Ong, professional trader and SGX Academy trainer, who shares 30 years of trading experience to break down complex concepts into practical strategies.We dive deep into Warrants vs Options, how they work, their key differences, and how traders can use them effectively in volatile markets. This podcast episode is brought to you in collaboration with Macquarie Warr...
Are property agents in Singapore really making five figures a month? Do those flashy cars and Instagram reels tell the whole story? In this episode of the DollarsAndSense Podcast, we speak with Kai Vearn, a real estate agent with 10 years of experience, to uncover the real income, commission structures, costs, and financial challenges faced by agents today. We break down how commission works, how much actually goes into their pocket after expenses, and how social media and market trends have...
In this special episode recorded live at MooFest 2025, DollarsAndSense co-founder Dinesh Dayani speaks with Isaac Lim, Chief Market Strategist at moomoo Singapore, on the big question every investor is asking: What to invest in for 2025? From US markets and China’s rebound, to Japan’s hidden value stocks and Singapore’s high dividend plays, we dive into the macro trends shaping investor behaviour today. Isaac also breaks down the surprising rise of crypto (yes, even among low-risk investors)...
You wouldn’t bet your life savings on a football team. So why do it with a single stock? In this DollarsAndSense podcast episode, we explore why investing in the STI ETF is a lot like following the English Premier League. Whether you're a Manchester United die-hard or just ETF-curious, we break down how index investing works, why teams (and stocks) get “relegated,” and how not to be a fair-weather investor. From Portsmouth to Noble Group, we look at what happens when stars fade and why it's ...
Ever tried booking a trip with 4, 5… or 6 kids? 😵💫 In this episode of the DollarsAndSense Podcast, Timothy, our Managing Editor/ Co-founder, also a dad of three, and Nick, a dad of six, dive into the real challenges and hilarious moments of traveling with a large family. From the logistical headaches of packing for multiple kids to finding family-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy, these dads share their personal struggles and best hacks for making family trips a success. Travellin...
The NCMP role gives opposition candidates who narrowly lost a second chance to enter Parliament. But with a $2,063 monthly allowance and limited voting rights, is it fair to expect them to accept it? In this episode of the DollarsAndSense Podcast, we unpack the origins of the NCMP scheme, how it's evolved, and why taking on the role is not just a political decision but a deeply personal one. We also explore how NCMPs can shape future elections, and why the choice to accept or reject the role ...
Can most Singaporeans really afford to retire between 40 to 60? In this episode of DollarsAndSense podcast recorded at InsureXpo 2025, CIMB’s Raymond Tan breaks down what Singaporeans believe about retirement and the financial reality behind those dreams. From rising living costs and CPF choices to FIRE aspirations and healthcare inflation, this episode explores whether early retirement is achievable or just wishful thinking. 🎧 Whether you’re in your 20s just starting out or in your 40s fee...
Is FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) realistic in Singapore? With high property prices, rising living costs, and sandwich generation pressures, it seems like a distant dream for many. But is it really? In this episode of DollarsAndSense podcast recorded at InsureXpo 2025, we speak with Dawn, better known as SGBudgetBabe, to unpack the realities of achieving FIRE in Singapore. She shares why it's not just about investing aggressively, but also managing lifestyle expectations, unders...
Is your insurance plan really serving your life stage — or draining your wallet? In this episode of DollarsAndSense podcast recorded at InsureXpo 2025, Helen Shen, Group Head of Products at Singlife, joins us to unpack what "the right insurance at the right time" really means. We talk misconceptions, affordability myths, how healthcare inflation is reshaping coverage, and the biggest mistakes young families and retirees make with their insurance plans. Whether you're just entering the workfo...
After Trump’s surprise trade tariffs sent global markets into turmoil, many rushed to “buy the dip” — but is that really the smart move? In this episode, we speak to Mr. Loo Cheng Chuan, founder of the 1M65 movement, on how he reads market crashes, why most investors fail at DCA, and what he’s doing this time amid the volatility. Follow us on our socials: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DollarsAndSenseSG Telegram: https://t.me/dollarsandsense Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dnssingap...
Curry puffs and chicken wings aren’t just snacks — they’re tracking inflation. In this DollarsAndSense podcast episode, we break down Singapore’s rising cost of living using a unique and surprisingly accurate gauge: the Old Chang Kee Index. From 2006 to 2025, prices of OCK snacks have more than doubled — and that mirrors the inflation many of us feel every day. We explore how everyday staples like kopi, economic bee hoon, and even football pitch rentals reflect broader economic trends, why t...
Most Singaporeans focus on investing and saving, but estate planning is often overlooked. Without a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) or a will, your assets and decision-making power may not be handled the way you intend. In this episode of the DollarsAndSense Podcast, we speak with Tan Check How, Director at iFAST Global Trust, about why these legal documents are crucial. Learn how an LPA ensures your affairs are managed if you lose mental capacity and how a will secures your assets for your ...
In this episode of our DollarsAndSense Podcast Heritage Series, we uncover how the Securities Investors Association of Singapore (SIAS) became the champion for minority shareholders. Join us as we speak with David Gerald, founder and CEO of SIAS, about the 1999 Clob saga, where 172,000 Singapore investors had their Malaysian stocks frozen, and how SIAS fought against unfair deals to protect retail investors. Drawing on the profound insights from SIAS’s acclaimed book, Boardroom Knockout, whi...
Singapore Budget 2025 has introduced several major policy changes that will impact families, businesses, and workers. In this episode of the DollarsAndSense Podcast, Dinesh and Timothy break down the biggest game-changers you may have missed. 🔹 $6.4B Budget Surplus – What does this unexpected surplus mean for future government spending? 🔹 Large Family Scheme – Families with 3+ kids receive $10K CDA grants, $5K Medisave top-ups, and $1K/year (ages 1-6) in LifeSG credits. 🔹Corporate Tax Reba...
The rise of AI is fueling unprecedented demand for semiconductor chips, with companies like NVIDIA and AMD at the forefront. But what does this mean for investors? In this episode of the Dollars and Sense Podcast, recorded at FSM Invest Expo 2025, we dive deep into the semiconductor industry with Tan De Jun, Portfolio Manager at iFAST Singapore. Follow us on our socials: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DollarsAndSenseSG Telegram: https://t.me/dollarsandsense Instagram: https://www.inst...
With new global policies shaking up the economy, investors are re-evaluating their strategies. Filming The DollarsAndSense Podcast offsite once again—this time at FSM InvestExpo 2025, we explore how trade tensions, market volatility, and shifting supply chains could impact your investments. Senior Portfolio Manager You Weiren from iFAST Singapore breaks down: 01:55 – How markets and investors are reacting to the latest policy shifts 04:52 – Trade tensions: Do tariffs create winners and lose...