Are million dollar HDB flats a phenomenon or just the realisation of an underlying issue? In this episode, we sit down with renowned sociologist Chua Beng Huat Emeritus Professor, NUS and Visiting Fellow, SMU, to understand the factors that have led to this situation.

Professor Chua provides insights into the origins of Singapore's public housing policy and how HDB flats have transitioned from being a social welfare good to an instrument for private wealth accumulation. He explains how this unintentionally contributes to income inequality in Singapore.

As the discussion delves deeper, Professor Chua shares his perspective on whether the government is still in control of the housing market and if selling your million dollar flat is a smart move.

Don't miss this fascinating conversation that sheds light on the complexities surrounding the future of affordable public housing in Singapore. Tune in to get Prof Chua's analysis and hear more about the larger moral and political implications at play.

Professor Chua's provocative analysis of how Singapore's public housing policy in his book "**Public Subsidy, Private Accumulation: The Political Economy of Singapore's Public Housing**" is a must-read for those seeking a deeper understanding of the unintended consequences of well-intentioned social programs.

02:47 - Could you share the journey that led to your current, widely recognised position?

06:20 - Could you briefly introduce your book and its core message for our audience?

10:29 - Could you provide our audience with an understanding of the factors behind the phenomenon of million-dollar flats?

19:31 - Is it accurate to say that a primary goal of the BTO scheme is to stabilize HDB prices, potentially impacting homeowners?

24:05 - What advice do you have for professionals using the HDB system to enter the private market?

32:07 - How can we maintain the affordability of HDB while acknowledging its quality and benefits?

36:40 - What is your perspective on the new HDB Plus and Prime initiatives?

40:48 - What advice would you offer to working professionals based on your experiences?

---

Welcome to The Financial Coconut, your source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. Join us as we explore personal finance, investing and more.

Get ready to take control of your financial future and live your best life, financially wise: https://linkin.bio/thefinancialcoconut

[Podcast, Vodcast]

Spotify: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-spotify

Apple Podcast: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-applepodcast

YouTube: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-youtube

[Connect with us]

Instagram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-instagram

Tik Tok: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-tiktok

Telegram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-telegram

Whatsapp: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Whatsapp-channel

Newsletter: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Newsletter

Disclaimer: The content discussed in this episode is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. The information provided is based on our understanding at the time of recording and may not reflect the current regulations or market conditions. The opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent those of The Financial Coconut. Please do your due diligence before making any investment or financial decisions.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Want to achieve financial freedom while working a 9-to-5 job? Meet Shao Chun Chen (9 to 5 Millionaire Mindset), who reached his version of financial freedom at age 35 through a corporate career at Google and in finance. No entrepreneurship required, no side hustles needed.

Shao Chun challenges common beliefs about career success and financial independence. He shares his unconventional approach to climbing the corporate ladder and reveals counter-intuitive strategies that helped him build wealth through a stable job.

Join Host Reggie and guests Matthew, FIRE Enthusiast, & Shao Chun Chen as they explore:

- Why the traditional retirement narrative might be outdated

- A surprising perspective on active vs passive income

- The hidden advantages of Singapore's corporate landscape

- Career growth tactics most people overlook

Whether you're a young professional or mid-career executive, this episode offers fresh insights on achieving financial freedom without sacrificing stability. Tune in to discover why being "passive" in your active income might be holding you back.

03:13 - At 35, you achieved your version of financial freedom. What does that look like for you?

06:54 - How do you view the idea that advancing in your career may involve tasks you don’t love but tolerate?

09:44 - Can you share more on how being more active in your job helps in developing people and driving growth?

14:14 - What led you from finance and tech to education after retirement, and was it always your passion?

15:53 - How do you manage your extra cash flow after realising stock picking isn’t for you?

20:12 - What’s your thought process behind choosing fixed income at this stage in your life?

22:13 - How does risk management shape investment strategies, and what key lessons learned?

33:58 - What’s your transition after losing job, going viral, and what has your journey looked like since then?

40:14 - What’s the story behind your frequent travels between Bangkok and Singapore?

---

Welcome to The Financial Coconut, your source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. Join us as we explore personal finance, investing and more.

Get ready to take control of your financial future and live your best life, financially wise: https://linkin.bio/thefinancialcoconut

[Podcast, Vodcast]

Spotify: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-spotify

Apple Podcast: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-applepodcast

YouTube: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-youtube

[Connect with us]

Instagram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-instagram

Tik Tok: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-tiktok

Telegram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-telegram

Whatsapp: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Whatsapp-channel

Newsletter: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Newsletter

Disclaimer: The content discussed in this episode is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. The information provided is based on our understanding at the time of recording and may not reflect the current regulations or market conditions. The opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent those of The Financial Coconut. Please do your due diligence before making any investment or financial decisions.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Worried about your mortgage rates? Wondering how the Fed's latest moves will affect your investment portfolio?

We dive deep into one of the most talked-about financial topics of 2024 - the Federal Reserve's interest rate decisions and their far-reaching impact on global markets.

We're joined by two distinguished guests:

• Rena Kwok, Credit Analyst (Asian Financials), Bloomberg Intelligence

• Anthony Raza, Head of Multi-Asset Strategy, UOB Asset Management (UOBAM)

Together, we explore:

• Why the Fed's latest moves matter more than you might think

• How rate changes ripple through different investment instruments

• What opportunities could emerge in this evolving financial landscape

• Expert perspectives on where markets might be headed

Whether you're an experienced investor or just getting started with understanding market dynamics, this episode breaks down complex concepts into digestible insights that matter for your financial decisions.

Tune in to Episode 194 of Chills with TFC for this essential conversation about the future of interest rates and what it means for investors everywhere.

03:48 - What prompted the Federal Reserve to implement a rate cut at this time, and how might this decision impact global financial markets?

13:23 - Do you foresee a substantial and rapid decrease in interest rates, or a more gradual decline?

14:55 - What does the recent divergence in interest rate changes among major central banks suggest about the direction of global monetary policy?

20:12 - What does the recent merger of Switzerland's largest bank suggest about the stability of the European banking sector?

25:51 - Has the demand for commercial properties fundamentally shifted, and can we expect a recovery despite potential interest rate cuts?

31:33 - Is the growing focus on value in the Chinese market a sign of a broader global shift in consumer spending habits?

37:54 - What is the financial world’s view on the current economic climate in the Middle East?

43:14 - Given the rising geopolitical risks in the Middle East, what hedging strategies are you using to mitigate these uncertainties?

46:11 - What key insights would you like to share with our audience to deepen their understanding of global markets?

---

Welcome to The Financial Coconut, your source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. Join us as we explore personal finance, investing and more.

Get ready to take control of your financial future and live your best life, financially wise: https://linkin.bio/thefinancialcoconut

[Podcast, Vodcast]

Spotify: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-spotify

Apple Podcast: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-applepodcast

YouTube: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-youtube

[Connect with us]

Instagram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-instagram

Tik Tok: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-tiktok

Telegram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-telegram

Whatsapp: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Whatsapp-channel

Newsletter: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Newsletter

Disclaimer: The content discussed in this episode is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. The information provided is based on our understanding at the time of recording and may not reflect the current regulations or market conditions. The opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent those of The Financial Coconut. Please do your due diligence before making any investment or financial decisions.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we dive into Singapore’s booming REIT market with Willie Keng, CFA. CEO and Founder, Dividend Titan, and co-host Anthony. The trio breaks down how Singapore REITs work, why sponsors are so crucial, and what makes REITs a favourite investment for generating stable income.

They highlight key REITs like Capitaland Ascendas Trust and AIMS APAC REIT, known for their conservative management and solid asset bases. Want to know how interest rates impact REIT performance, or how REITs like these are navigating today’s volatile markets?

Willy also shares insider tips from his 83-page guide on choosing the right REITs for your portfolio. Whether you’re new to investing or a seasoned pro, this video has essential insights for anyone considering REITs. Stick around to the end, where they reveal if the REIT ship has truly sailed or if there’s still time to jump on board!

00:00 - Introduction

02:18 - What is the focus of your report or guide, and what key concepts do you think people often overlook?

04:49 - Why are sponsor dynamics so crucial in the Singapore REITs market?

12:11 - How should we evaluate the risks in the REITs market?

16:05 - What is your assessment of the current situation in the REITs market, and how do you see it evolving moving forward?

20:14 - How do you see interest rates and credit management impacting the structure and performance of REITs moving forward?

36:13 - With the Federal rate cut, how do you think REITs will perform compared to stocks and bonds, and should investors view them as a safe haven?

---

Welcome to The Financial Coconut, your source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. Join us as we explore personal finance, investing and more.

Get ready to take control of your financial future and live your best life, financially wise: https://linkin.bio/thefinancialcoconut

[Podcast, Vodcast]

Spotify: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-spotify

Apple Podcast: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-applepodcast

YouTube: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-youtube

[Connect with us]

Instagram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-instagram

Tik Tok: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-tiktok

Telegram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-telegram

Whatsapp: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Whatsapp-channel

Newsletter: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Newsletter

Disclaimer: The content discussed in this episode is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. The information provided is based on our understanding at the time of recording and may not reflect the current regulations or market conditions. The opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent those of The Financial Coconut. Please do your due diligence before making any investment or financial decisions.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Curious about what life is like for Singaporeans living in Bangkok? In this episode, we sit down with Geraldina, Justin, and Ernie, three professionals who made the big move from Singapore to Thailand for better job opportunities and a change of lifestyle. From navigating the renewable energy market to setting up a legal consulting firm and even starting a dog fitness business, they share the ups and downs of living and working in Bangkok.

Discover how Thailand's "grey areas" create more room for business and personal growth, and why these Singaporeans are choosing to stay long-term. If you've ever wondered what it's like to work abroad or if you're looking for a life beyond the hustle in Singapore, you won’t want to miss this conversation!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Marketing experts know how to target your weaknesses, but with the right strategies, you can flip the script! Start by recognising the marketing tactics that lure you into impulsive spending in this new episode.

Today, Reggie, our Chief Financial Coconut, is joined by Dave, the author of Minimalist in the City, Daron, the founder of the team Property Partners, and Andy Schmidt, a solopreneur also known in the market as the beekeeper. Listen as they provide their best financial advice, strategies and more to help you stay ahead.

This is that one episode you won’t want to skip out on. So turn the volume up and start taking notes!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Chills episode, we sit down with Andy Schmidt, a former CFO at Siemens, who reveals his journey from climbing the corporate ladder to retiring at 44. After spending over two decades in the corporate world, Andy realized the importance of family time, having heard from retiring colleagues about their biggest regret—neglecting their children. Determined to avoid the same mistake, he left his job with a well-planned financial foundation, including a $1-2 million investment portfolio.

Andy also explores the emotional aspects of investing and frugality, emphasizing that true financial freedom isn’t just about wealth but having the freedom to control your time. Now, he’s an entrepreneur promoting the Beekeeper app to improve communication for frontline workers.

Curious to learn more about how Andy transitioned out of corporate life and built a life of balance and purpose? Keep watching to find out!

00:00 - Introduction

00:54 - Andy's Introduction

05:50 - After climbing all the way to the top in the corporate life, what changed that made you leave?

09:01 - After you retired from corporate grind, what was your financial situation, how did you prepare, and how was the transition?

15:08 - After leaving the corporate world and delving into personal finance, what ideas did you find most intriguing?

25:29 - Why have you returned to business and work after retiring?

31:17 - In hindsight, how would you approach this arc differently if given the chance to do it again?

33:55 - What advice do you have for those financially stable but hesitant to leave the corporate grind?

---

Welcome to The Financial Coconut, your source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. Join us as we explore personal finance, investing and more.

Get ready to take control of your financial future and live your best life, financially wise: https://linkin.bio/thefinancialcoconut

[Podcast, Vodcast]

Spotify: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-spotify

Apple Podcast: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-applepodcast

YouTube: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-youtube

[Connect with us]

Instagram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-instagram

Tik Tok: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-tiktok

Telegram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-telegram

Whatsapp: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Whatsapp-channel

Newsletter: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Newsletter

Disclaimer: The content discussed in this episode is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. The information provided is based on our understanding at the time of recording and may not reflect the current regulations or market conditions. The opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent those of The Financial Coconut. Please do your due diligence before making any investment or financial decisions.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With medical inflation soaring to 9.5%, your health and financial future are at a critical crossroads. In this eye-opening episode, we unpack the real impact of rising healthcare costs and reveal why taking charge of your health now can save you from major expenses—and stress—later on.

Explore the latest in medical advancements, the crucial role of early health screenings, and how the right insurance coverage can be your best defense against unexpected medical bills. Plus, learn how to weave proactive health management into your financial planning strategy, ensuring you're not just living longer, but living well. More insights from Manulife Asia Care Survey - https://go.manulife.sg/TFC2yt

Whether you're gearing up for retirement or simply aiming to stay one step ahead, this episode is filled with actionable insights to help you navigate the complexities of healthcare and financial planning in today's world. Don't miss out on this essential guide to securing both your health and wealth!

00:00 - Introduction

03:28 - With medical inflation at 9.5%, how is this affecting retirement plans, and what’s driving these rising costs?

09:58 - As a working professional with regular health screenings, how does early detection of health issues affect my quality of life and survival chances?

11:56 - In terms of public medical infrastructure, what percentage of resources or support can our audience rely on for their comfort and reassurance?

13:40 - Given the ongoing issue of medical inflation, what strategies can individuals employ to effectively manage their healthcare costs and ensure financial stability?

17:00 - How should individuals evaluate their insurance needs based on care options, budget, and anticipated needs?

21:31 - Does having favorable biomarkers lead to lower insurance premiums?

24:12 - Based on the Manulife Asia Care Survey, people in Singapore managing their healthcare differently, how could they improve their approach?

29:42 - In the realm of financial planning, what are some foundational principles that everyone should consider to ensure a solid and sustainable financial strategy?

---

Welcome to The Financial Coconut, your source for empowering financial knowledge and unlocking possibilities. Join us as we explore personal finance, investing and more.

Get ready to take control of your financial future and live your best life, financially wise: https://linkin.bio/thefinancialcoconut

[Podcast, Vodcast]

Spotify: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-spotify

Apple Podcast: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-applepodcast

YouTube: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-youtube

[Connect with us]

Instagram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-instagram

Tik Tok: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-tiktok

Telegram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-telegram

Whatsapp: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Whatsapp-channel

Newsletter: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Newsletter

Disclaimer: The content discussed in this episode is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. The information provided is based on our understanding at the time of recording and may not reflect the current regulations or market conditions. The opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily represent those of The Financial Coconut. Please do your due diligence before making any investment or financial decisions.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.