Net Worth Update June 2025 SGD1.88m!

In June 2025, my net worth rises to S$1.88 million record high mainly due to the recovery of stock markets.

Net Worth Breakdown:

Safe Heavens (62%)

CPF (35.6%): CPF is the bulk of my net worth and forms the foundation of my retirement savings. It is a low hanging fruit tree that we should not ignore.

Cash and war chest (17.1%): Liquid reserves strategically stashed in fixed deposits and Fullerton cash funds earning around 2.0% p.a. provide me with a peace of mind and security for unexpected expenses or investment opportunities.

Bonds (9.5%): A balanced portfolio of low-risk Singapore Savings Bonds and Astrea Bond ensures stability and provides steady source of passive income.

Retirement Savings (16%)

SRS (11.3%): This tax-deferred savings account provides a supplementary source of retirement savings and its value has recently surpassed $200k despite a cumulative contribution of less than $150k in past 8 years. I have completed the $15.3k contribution to maximise the annual individual limit for this year. My SRS funds are invested in $30k of SSB and 6 local stocks - Comfortdelgro, DBS, OCBC, Keppel DC Reit, Keppel Reit and Wilmar. Recently, I have stashed away all the idle SRS funds into Fullerton SGD Money Market Funds to yield 2.5% p.a. instead of meagre 0.05%.

Insurance (4.6%): A Prudential whole life insurance plan and other savings plans will provide me with 6-digit lump sum payout after my retirement while offering continual protection for peace of mind. I have also upgraded my MediShield life to integrated shield plan for private hospital coverage.

Equities (22%)

Stocks and Reits (21.8%): A real estate-focused portfolio of stocks and Reits provides long-term dividend income and stability. This financial asset class is riskier, more volatile and sensitive to interest rates but offers me the opportunity to indirectly own diversified portfolios of industrial, retail and commercial properties locally, and around the world for consistent passive income.

The Pursuit of FIRE

Our net worth is a financial health check to assess our net assets minus liabilities. The focus on building passive income streams and growing overall net worth is not solely about retiring early. It is about creating options in life to possibly regain time, location and financial freedom.  It is about creating the opportunity to pursue passions, work less, focus on living life on this earth, and navigate life's uncertainties without financial stress.  This journey is about building a foundation of security that empowers us with choices in life.

I hope to achieve my next milestone of SGD 1.9m soon in the coming months and $36k annual passive income by end of this year.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. It's crucial to conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Thanks for reading.

With love and peace, 

Qiongster

CPF: the Low-Hanging Fruit Tree You Can't Afford to Ignore

Singaporeans, let’s get unequivocally clear about something fundamentally important to our financial well-being: the Central Provident Fund (CPF). Forget the fleeting allure of speculative ventures, the dazzling promise of overnight riches, or the complex world of high-stakes investments. We’re going to talk about something far more grounded, dependable, and often shockingly underestimated: our CPF. While it might sometimes feel like a bureaucratic deduction from your hard-earned salary, a deeper, more informed perspective reveals CPF to be one of the most prolific and accessible "low-hanging fruit trees" in our entire financial ecosystem. It’s a powerful, multi-faceted wealth accumulation tool that, tragically, many of us aren’t fully understanding, let alone leveraging. In an increasingly volatile global economy, ignoring CPF's immense potential isn't just a missed opportunity; it's a significant financial oversight that could impact your quality of life in retirement.

Beyond the Deduction: Unpacking CPF as a Wealth-Building Ecosystem

The common perception of CPF as merely a mandatory savings account, or even worse, a forced contribution with limited access, is a disservice to its true design and potential. CPF is far more sophisticated than a simple bank account; it's a meticulously crafted financial ecosystem designed to address three core pillars of Singaporean life: retirement adequacy, affordable housing, and essential healthcare. The "low-hanging fruit" analogy isn't just a catchy phrase; it perfectly encapsulates how the growth within CPF is largely passive, inherently secure, and requires remarkably little active intervention from you to flourish.

Let's dissect the fundamental components that make CPF such a robust and prolific fruit tree.

The Indispensable Power of Compounding: Your Automatic Growth Engine

At the very core of CPF's potency lies the relentless, exponential force of compound interest. Consider the guaranteed interest rates: your Ordinary Account (OA) yields a minimum of 2.5% per annum, while your Special Account (SA) and MediSave Account (MA) command a significantly more attractive guaranteed minimum of 4.04% per annum (these rates are reviewed quarterly, but the minimums are enshrined). Your Retirement Account (RA), once established, also guarantees at least 4.04% per annum.

Pause and reflect on these figures. In an era where conventional bank savings accounts offer rates barely keeping pace with inflation (or often falling behind), and fixed deposits hover around 3% for limited terms, CPF provides consistently superior, guaranteed returns. Unlike the capricious stock markets that demand vigilance and stomach-churning volatility, CPF's growth is largely set-and-forget. This isn't merely about earning interest on your initial contributions; it's about earning interest on your accumulated interest, year after year, decade after decade. This continuous, compounding effect transforms seemingly modest monthly contributions into astonishingly substantial sums over the long term. It’s akin to planting a sapling that matures into a mighty fruit tree, bearing more and more fruit each season without you needing to manually pollinate or endlessly prune.

Unparalleled Risk-Free Returns: The Sweetest, Most Reliable Fruit

Perhaps the most compelling argument for CPF's status as a low-hanging fruit tree is its near-absolute risk-free nature. In stark contrast to virtually every other investment avenue – be it equities, bonds, real estate, or even gold – your CPF balances are explicitly and unconditionally guaranteed by the Singapore government. This sovereign guarantee is an invaluable layer of security, particularly for individuals who are inherently risk-averse, approaching retirement, or simply seeking a bedrock of stability in their financial portfolio.

Attempting to replicate these guaranteed, consistently high returns in the open market would be an arduous, if not impossible, task without introducing significant risk. The SA and MA rates, in particular, stand out, offering returns that comfortably outperform most low-risk fixed-income alternatives available to the retail investor. This "sweetest fruit" of guaranteed, robust returns, backed by the full faith and credit of the nation, is a cornerstone of why CPF should occupy a central position in every Singaporean’s financial blueprint. It’s peace of mind wrapped in attractive returns.

Tax-Exempt Growth: Maximizing Every Piece of Fruit

An often-underappreciated yet highly significant advantage of CPF is that all interest earned on your balances is entirely tax-exempt. In many other investment vehicles, capital gains, interest income, or dividends are subject to income tax, which can erode a substantial portion of your returns. With CPF, every single cent of interest earned remains within your accounts, continually compounding and accelerating your wealth accumulation. This tax efficiency is a powerful accelerator, adding more fruit to your basket without any additional effort or tax burden on your part. It’s like having a special variety of fruit tree that grows larger, juicier fruit because it’s immune to common pests (taxes).

Cultivating Your CPF Fruit Tree: Advanced Strategies for a Bountiful Harvest

Now that we understand the foundational benefits, let’s move beyond passive acceptance and delve into actionable strategies to actively cultivate your CPF fruit tree, ensuring the most abundant harvest possible.

1. Strategic Top-Ups to Your Special Account (SA) – The Golden, Accelerated Harvest

If you possess excess liquidity, performing cash top-ups to your Special Account (SA) should be at the top of your CPF optimization list. The rationale is simple yet profound: the SA consistently earns the higher guaranteed interest rate of 4.04% p.a. (and potentially more when prevailing rates are higher than the 4% floor). This move is incredibly potent because the funds transferred to the SA are irreversible, effectively locking them in for retirement. This forced discipline is a significant advantage for many who struggle with consistent voluntary savings.

Beyond the superior interest rate, cash top-ups to your SA (and subsequently your Retirement Account, RA, once it’s formed) are eligible for dollar-for-dollar tax relief, up to the prevailing Basic Healthcare Sum (BHS) and Full Retirement Sum (FRS) limits. This creates a compelling double benefit: you’re not only securing a higher guaranteed return on your capital but also simultaneously reducing your current year’s income tax liability. It’s akin to injecting a potent, growth-accelerating fertilizer into your fruit tree, yielding a bigger and faster return on your investment. Remember to check the contribution caps, as tax relief is generally granted for top-ups up to the current FRS.

2. Mastering the "Interest on First $60,000" – The Bonus Fruit Multiplier

CPF’s tiered interest structure offers an additional 1% interest on the first $60,000 of your combined CPF balances, with a maximum of $20,000 from the Ordinary Account (OA). This translates into an effective 3.5% p.a. on your OA funds up to $20,000, and a truly impressive 5.04% p.a. on your SA, MA, and RA funds up to $40,000. This bonus interest is a significant perk that disproportionately amplifies returns, especially for younger individuals or those building up their balances.

To fully capitalize on this bonus, consider strategically transferring funds from your OA to your SA. While such a transfer is irreversible and reduces the funds available in your OA for housing or education, the superior interest rate earned in your SA generally makes it a highly advantageous move over the long term. This strategy is particularly powerful if you've already accumulated sufficient OA funds for your current or anticipated housing needs, or if you’ve fully paid off your home loan. It’s like surgically pruning your tree to direct all its energy and nutrients to the branches that yield the most valuable fruit.

3. Optimising Your Ordinary Account (OA) – Preventing Fruit Rot

While the OA's 2.5% interest rate might seem less glamorous than the SA's, it’s still a respectable, absolutely risk-free return that comfortably outperforms most standard bank savings accounts. The critical mistake many Singaporeans make is allowing significant sums of cash to sit idle in low-interest bank accounts when they could be earning a guaranteed 2.5% in their OA. If you have excess liquidity that isn't immediately required for short-term expenses or active investments, ensure it's either in your OA or, even better, transferred to your SA.

However, prudence is key. Before initiating any irreversible OA to SA transfers, meticulously assess your immediate and future housing needs. Do you anticipate purchasing a property soon? Do you have an existing home loan being serviced by your OA? Always maintain a healthy buffer in your OA for these essential purposes. The goal is optimization, not depletion. It’s about ensuring every piece of fruit on your tree, even the less "exotic" ones, is nurtured to its fullest potential and not allowed to "rot" in a low-yield environment.

4. Maximizing Your MediSave (MA) – The Essential Health Fruit

Your MediSave Account (MA) is dedicated to funding your healthcare needs and also earns the same attractive 4.04% p.a. (currently) as your SA. Ensuring your MA is adequately funded up to the prevailing Basic Healthcare Sum (BHS) is paramount for long-term health security. While you cannot generally perform voluntary cash top-ups to your MA beyond the BHS (unless you have not hit the BHS and are self-employed or have insufficient contributions), it's crucial to be aware of its growth and to strategically leverage it for approved medical expenses, insurance premiums (like MediShield Life and private integrated shield plans), and even approved eldercare needs. This ensures that a critical portion of your "fruit harvest" is ring-fenced for your health, offering invaluable peace of mind against unexpected medical costs. It’s the protective "skin" on your fruit, ensuring it’s healthy and resilient for the long haul.

5. Consider the Retirement Account (RA) – The Ultimate Harvest

Once you turn 55, your Ordinary and Special Accounts merge to form your Retirement Account (RA), which continues to earn the attractive 4.04% p.a. interest. This is the ultimate harvest from your CPF fruit tree, designed to provide you with a lifelong income stream via CPF LIFE. Understanding the different Retirement Sums (Basic, Full, and Enhanced) and aiming to meet at least the Full Retirement Sum (FRS) is crucial. By maximizing your CPF growth throughout your working life, you set yourself up for higher CPF LIFE payouts, ensuring a more comfortable and secure retirement. This is the mature, fully laden fruit tree providing a steady, reliable yield for the rest of your life.

The CPF Difference: Beyond "Just Another Savings Account"

The disciplined, enforced long-term approach inherent in the CPF system is its greatest, often unsung, strength. For countless Singaporeans, the mandatory nature of CPF contributions instills a consistent savings habit that might otherwise prove difficult to maintain in the face of immediate gratification and consumerist pressures. It acts as a powerful barrier against impulsive spending, channeling a steady stream of funds into a high-yielding, supremely secure environment.

In a global financial landscape teeming with complex investment products, speculative bubbles, and bewildering market volatility, CPF stands as a beacon of stable, predictable, and remarkably effective wealth growth. It is a profound testament to the quiet, consistent power of compounding, discipline, and government backing over extended periods. While it may lack the glitz and glamour of a hot new IPO or the thrill of a cryptocurrency surge, its fundamental impact on your long-term financial security is undeniably more substantial and reliable.

Don't Let Your Low-Hanging Fruit Go Unpicked

In conclusion, your CPF is not just a statutory obligation; it is a truly extraordinary financial asset. It is a prolific, low-hanging fruit tree that consistently bears fruit – valuable, risk-free, tax-exempt fruit – year after year, with minimal active management required on your part. By moving beyond a passive understanding and actively engaging with its mechanics, by strategically optimizing your account balances, and by making informed decisions about top-ups and transfers, you possess the power to significantly enhance your financial security, fortify your retirement nest egg, and build an unshakeable foundation for a more comfortable future.

It's time to shed the perception of CPF as merely a deduction from your paycheck. It’s time to embrace it for what it truly is: a powerful, government-backed wealth-building machine that, with a little strategic foresight and consistent attention, can provide an unbelievably bountiful harvest for your retirement and beyond. The fruit is ripe, delicious, and within easy reach. Don't let this invaluable resource go unpicked. Start cultivating your CPF tree today, and watch your financial future flourish.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. It's crucial to conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

With Love & Peace,

Qiongster

Why Less is More? Empty is the new Full

In a world that constantly pushes us to acquire more, to fill every conceivable void with possessions, experiences, and commitments, there's a quiet revolution brewing. It’s a paradigm shift that challenges the very foundation of consumerism, whispering a radical truth: “Less is More.” And perhaps even more profoundly, “Empty is the New Full.”

This isn't just a minimalist aesthetic; it’s a powerful financial philosophy, a beacon guiding us towards true wealth and sustainable well-being. For too long, we've equated "more" with "better." More income, more investments, more luxury items, more activities. We’ve chased the elusive "full" as if it were a finish line, only to find ourselves exhausted, overwhelmed, and ironically, often feeling emptier than ever.

Consider your financial life. How many subscriptions do you have that you barely use? How many impulse purchases clutter your home, gathering dust and depreciating in value? How many times have you stretched your budget to acquire something “essential,” only to realize its true cost wasn't just the price tag, but the accompanying stress and the opportunity cost of what you could have done with that money?

The "less is more" approach in finance is about intentionality. It's about consciously choosing what truly adds value to your life and shedding the rest. It's about decluttering your financial landscape, not just your physical space. This means:

Fewer Debts, More Freedom

The weight of consumer debt, car loans, or even excessive mortgage payments can be suffocating. The constant worry about making payments, the gnawing feeling of being tethered to a lender – it's a heavy burden. By prioritizing debt reduction, you aren't just paying down numbers on a statement; you're actively liberating your future self. Imagine the mental space that opens up when you no longer have that credit card bill looming or that car payment draining a significant chunk of your paycheck. You free up cash flow, reduce crippling interest payments, and gain immense financial agility. An empty debt column is a full bank account of opportunities, ready to be deployed towards investments, experiences, or simply enjoying the present moment without financial anxiety. This freedom allows you to make choices based on your desires, not on your obligations.

Fewer Unnecessary Expenses, More Savings

We often underestimate the cumulative power of small, habitual drains on our finances. That daily coffee, the forgotten gym membership, the myriad streaming services you rarely watch – individually, they seem insignificant. Collectively, they can amount to a substantial sum. This is where the "less is more" philosophy truly shines. It's about developing a keen awareness of where your money is actually going. Scrutinize your recurring expenses. Do you truly need that premium streaming service when you only watch one show? Are you maximizing your grocery budget by meal planning and avoiding impulse buys? Cutting out these seemingly small, habitual drains can lead to surprisingly substantial savings over time. These savings aren't just numbers in a bank account; they represent a "full" emergency fund, a robust investment portfolio, or the down payment on a dream home. Every dollar saved from an unnecessary expense is a dollar invested in your future.

Fewer Possessions, More Experiences

In our consumer-driven society, there’s an incessant pressure to accumulate. We’re told that happiness lies in the latest gadget, the trendiest fashion, or the biggest house. However, countless studies and anecdotal evidence point to a different truth: experiences, not possessions, are the true drivers of lasting happiness and fulfillment. Instead of accumulating things that require maintenance, insurance, and often lead to buyer's remorse, shift your focus to experiences. Travel, learning new skills, pursuing hobbies, spending quality time with loved ones – these create indelible memories and enrich your life in ways no material object ever could. Think about it: that expensive gadget will eventually become obsolete, but the memory of hiking through a national park or learning to play an instrument will stay with you forever. Your passport can be fuller than your shopping cart, filled with stamps from adventures rather than receipts from fleeting purchases. This shift isn't about deprivation; it's about prioritizing joy and personal growth over material acquisition.

Fewer Complexities, More Clarity

Our financial lives can become unnecessarily complicated. A sprawling investment portfolio with too many diverse holdings, a multitude of bank accounts, or complex tax strategies can be overwhelming and difficult to manage effectively. The more moving parts, the more potential for confusion, errors, and missed opportunities. Simplify. Focus on a few core, low-cost investments that align with your long-term goals. Automate your savings and investments. Consolidate accounts where it makes sense. An "empty" inbox of complex financial statements means a fuller understanding of your wealth. By reducing complexity, you gain clarity. You can more easily track your progress, identify areas for improvement, and make informed decisions without feeling bogged down by unnecessary details. This streamlined approach frees up your mental energy, allowing you to focus on the bigger picture of your financial journey.

Fewer Distractions, More Focus

We live in an age of constant noise. The relentless bombardment of advertisements, social media showcasing curated "perfect" lives, and the pressure to keep up with the latest trends are major distractions from your personal financial goals. This constant external pressure can lead to impulse purchases, lifestyle inflation, and a perpetual feeling of inadequacy. By tuning out the noise, you can focus on what truly matters: building a secure financial future, enjoying your present, and living according to your deepest values. This might mean unfollowing certain accounts on social media, unsubscribing from marketing emails, or consciously limiting your exposure to consumerist messaging. When you reduce these external distractions, your internal financial compass becomes much clearer. An empty mind from consumerist desires is a full mind for purposeful living, allowing you to allocate your energy and resources to what genuinely contributes to your well-being.

"Empty is the new full" extends beyond mere budgeting and conscious spending. It speaks to the mental and emotional space created when we release the burden of excess. When our financial lives are less complicated, less encumbered by debt and unnecessary spending, we gain clarity, peace of mind, and the bandwidth to pursue what truly brings us joy and purpose. It’s about recognizing that true abundance isn't measured by the quantity of our possessions, but by the quality of our lives. It's about finding contentment in what we have, rather than constantly striving for what we don't.

So, take a deep breath. Look around you, and within your financial habits. What can you release? What can you simplify? What "empty" space can you create that will ultimately lead to a richer, more meaningful "fullness" in your life? The journey to financial freedom often begins not with acquiring more, but with the courage to embrace less. What are you willing to let go of to gain true financial abundance?

With Love & Peace,

Qiongster

Portfolio Update May 2025

Welcome to my latest portfolio update as May 2025 has wrapped up!

My SGX Income Portfolio value increases to $392k from $382k mainly due to capital injection into Mapletree Industrial Trust. S-Reits have remained sluggish despite more positive market sentiments that believe interest rates may be cut at least 2 times in 2025. Immense fears from global trade war and potential recession have subsided but future uncertainties are still causing the US and Asian stock markets to remain volatile.

My US Growth Portfolio recovers to US$13.2k from US$8.7k due to rebound of NVIDIA and GOOGL share prices. I am unwavered in their long term growth potential and plan to keep rolling over the cash secured put options to delay the expiry date or take assignment of the NVIDIA and GOOGL shares.

My SRS Ultra Long-Term Portfolio value rises to $212k from $206k mainly due to recovery of OCBC share price.

Portfolio Actions

1. Bought 5,275 shares of Mapletree Industrial Trust at $2.02.

Portfolio Dividends

1. Received $613 of dividends from SSB on 2 May.

2. Received $2,850 of dividends from OCBC in SRS on 9 May.

3. Received $1,170 of dividends from UOB on 13 May.

4. Received $212.50 of dividends from ComfortDelgro in SRS on 14 May.

5. Received $150.00 of dividends from Wilmar in SRS on 15 May.

6. Received $750.75 of dividends from DBS on 27 May.

7. Received $184.10 of dividends from Astrea 7 A-1 PE Bond on 27 May.

8. Received $600.00 of dividends from DBS in SRS on 27 May.

9. Received $42 of dividends from OUE on 29 May.

10. Received $738 of dividends from Frasers Centrepoint Trust on 30 May.

11. Received $78.15 of dividends from Suntec Reit on 30 May.

SGX Income Portfolio

Portfolio Value = $392k

US Growth Portfolio

Moomoo

Tiger Broker

Syfe Trade

Portfolio Value = US$13.2k

SRS Ultra Long-Term Portfolio

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. It's crucial to conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Thanks for reading.

With love and peace, 

Qiongster

Shaolin Financial Lessons

I was recently inspired by life lessons from Shaolin Master Shi Heng Yi's Teachings.

Master Shi Heng Yi's discourse centers on the profound wisdom of detachment, mindfulness, and facing reality to achieve inner peace and growth. 

Summary of key takeaways are as follows:

 * Impermanence of Possessions: Nothing truly belongs to us; excessive attachment to material things leads to suffering. The true freedom lies in not being possessed by our possessions.

 * Detachment from Desire and Aversion: Avoid chasing desires or pushing away dislikes, as both actions deplete energy and distract from present focus.

 * Embrace the Present Moment: Life unfolds now; dwelling on the past or obsessing over the future pulls us away from the only reality we have.

 * Perspective and Self-Illusion: Viewing life as a movie director offers objective perspective, and not taking our current identity too seriously helps navigate struggles.

 * Inner Awareness & Body's Role: Understanding our inner energy and emotions is vital for managing reactions. Physical activity is crucial for overall balance.

 * Facing Suffering and the Unknown: True growth comes from confronting fears and challenges, not avoiding them. Security-seeking prevents discovery of life's greatest aspects.

 * Courage and Letting Go: Mental and physical development requires stepping out of comfort zones and letting go of what holds us back.

 * Prepare for the End in the Now: Acknowledge the impermanence of our current self and prepare to let go throughout life, making transitions smoother.

 * Self-Observation Without Judgment: To understand ourselves truly, we must observe our thoughts and actions without ego or judgment, acknowledging our history.

 * Thoughts Create Reality: Our inner thoughts significantly shape our experience of the world.

 * Shifting from Thinking to Feeling: Engaging in non-analytical activities (like art, Tai Chi) helps quiet the thinking mind and fosters observation without judgment.

Financial Zen: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Wealth

In a world obsessed with accumulation and constant growth, the path to financial well-being often feels like an endless race. We chase higher returns, bigger houses, and the latest gadgets, only to find ourselves feeling perpetually unfulfilled or stressed. But what if the secrets to lasting financial peace and abundance lie not in what we gain, but in what we understand and let go of?

Drawing inspiration from timeless wisdom, particularly the teachings on detachment and mindfulness, we can discover a powerful framework for navigating the modern financial landscape.

1. The Illusion of Ownership: Not Being Possessed by Your Possessions

Master Shi Heng Yi reminds us that "the universe makes sure you leave with nothing." In finance, this translates to the understanding that true wealth isn't just about what you own, but how much those possessions own you.

 * Financial Lesson: Are you accumulating things that drain your finances (through debt, maintenance, or simply constant upgrading) and your mental energy? True financial independence often means recognizing that less can be more. Focus on essentialism – investing in experiences, education, and assets that generate income or truly align with your values, rather than mindlessly consuming. Differentiate between assets that free you and liabilities that bind you.

2. Taming Desire and Aversion: The Emotional Investor's Pitfall

The wisdom states: "Don't pull towards what you desire, and don't push away what you dislike." In the investment world, desire manifests as FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out), chasing the latest hot stock, or expecting instant riches. Aversion leads to panic selling during market downturns or avoiding necessary risks.

 * Financial Lesson: Emotional investing is often disastrous investing. Develop a disciplined investment strategy based on your long-term goals and risk tolerance, not on market hype or fear. Automate your savings and investments. When the market dips, resist the urge to panic; instead, view it as a potential opportunity to buy low. When markets are soaring, avoid irrational exuberance and stick to your plan.

3. The Power of the Present Moment: Beyond Future Fantasies

We're constantly bombarded with future projections – retirement planning, market forecasts, next quarter's earnings. While planning is crucial, obsessing over an imagined future can prevent us from making sound decisions in the present.

 * Financial Lesson: While long-term planning is essential, execute your financial plan consistently in the present moment. Are you saving your target amount today? Are you resisting impulsive spending now? Financial strength is built one conscious decision at a time, not solely by dreaming of a distant future. Consistent, disciplined action today yields results tomorrow.

4. Embracing Suffering: Navigating Market Volatility

Life, like markets, has its ups and downs. Master Shi Heng Yi emphasizes that true growth comes from facing challenges, not avoiding them. Our societal programming often pushes us towards constant security, but life's greatest aspects are found beyond our comfort zone.

 * Financial Lesson: Market corrections and recessions are inevitable. Instead of panicking, cultivate financial resilience. Build an emergency fund. Understand that market downturns are a natural part of the economic cycle. View them as a test of your investment conviction and a chance to accumulate assets at a lower cost. Courage isn't about avoiding financial storms, but about knowing how to weather them.

5. Self-Observation Without Judgment: Understanding Your Money Psychology

"To truly see ourselves, we need to let go of our ego and observe ourselves without judgment." This is profoundly true for our financial lives. We all have money biases, ingrained habits, and emotional triggers related to spending and saving.

 * Financial Lesson: Take time for financial introspection. Review your bank statements and credit card bills without shame or guilt. Understand why you spend the way you do, why you feel anxious about money, or why you're drawn to certain investments. This non-judgmental observation is the first step towards building healthier financial habits and overcoming limiting beliefs.

6. Thoughts Create Reality: Cultivating a Wealth Mindset

Our thoughts have immense power in shaping our experience. If we constantly believe we are poor, or that money is difficult to acquire, our actions will often reflect that reality.

 * Financial Lesson: Cultivate a positive and realistic financial mindset. Replace thoughts of scarcity with abundance. Focus on gratitude for what you have. Educate yourself about money and investment principles. Believe in your ability to manage your finances, set achievable goals, and consistently work towards them. Your financial reality is significantly influenced by your internal dialogue.

In conclusion, financial peace isn't just about spreadsheets and stock tickers; it's about understanding ourselves, our impulses, and our relationship with the transient nature of wealth. By embracing these timeless lessons, we can build a financial life that is not only abundant but also deeply fulfilling and resilient.

Thanks for reading.

With love and peace, 

Qiongster

Net Worth Update May 2025

My net worth increases to S$1.867 million after CPF contributions, dividends collected and salary savings. There is a boost from the resurgence of stock markets after the trade war situation has normalised.

Net Worth Breakdown:

Safe Heavens (63%)

CPF (35.8%): CPF forms the bulk of my retirement savings and net worth. I am comfortable to not invest the CPF OA funds and letting them idle to earn the basic 2.5% risk-free. I have made top-ups earlier to max out my Medisave Account at $75.5k. 

Cash and war chest (17.1%): Liquid reserves strategically stashed in fixed deposits and Fullerton cash funds earn around 2.5% p.a. This financial cushion provides me with a peace of mind and security for unexpected expenses or investment opportunities.

Bonds (9.6%): A balanced portfolio of low-risk Singapore Savings Bonds and Astrea Bond ensures stability.

Retirement Savings (15%)

SRS (11.3%): This tax-deferred savings account provides a supplementary source of retirement savings and its value has recently surpassed $200k despite a cumulative contribution of less than $150k in past 8 years. I have completed the $15.3k contribution to maximise the annual individual limit for this year. My SRS funds are invested in $30k of SSB and 6 local stocks - Comfortdelgro, DBS, OCBC, Keppel DC Reit, Keppel Reit and Wilmar. Recently, I have stashed away all the idle SRS funds into Fullerton SGD Money Market Funds to yield 2.5% p.a. instead of meagre 0.05%.

Insurance (4.5%): A Prudential whole life insurance plan and other savings plans will provide me with 6-digit lump sum payout after my retirement while offering continual protection for peace of mind. I have also upgraded my MediShield life to integrated shield plan for private hospital coverage.

Equities (22%)

Stocks and Reits (21.7%): A real estate-oriented portfolio of stocks and Reits, focuses on long-term dividend income and stability. This segment of financial assets is riskier, more volatile and sensitive to interest rates but offers me the opportunity to indirectly own diversified portfolios of industrial, retail and commercial properties locally, and around the world for consistent passive income.

The Pursuit of FIRE

Our net worth is a financial health check to assess our net assets minus liabilities. The focus on building passive income streams and growing my overall net worth is not solely about retiring early. It is about creating options in life to possibly regain time, location and financial freedom.  It is about having the choice to pursue passions, work less, focus on living life on this earth, and navigate life's uncertainties without financial stress.  This journey is about building a foundation of security that empowers us with choices in life.

I hope to achieve my next milestone of SGD 1.9m soon in the coming months and $36k annual passive income by end of this year.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. It's crucial to conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Thanks for reading.

With love and peace, 

Qiongster

Final IPPT of my Life

 

After turning 39 year old last week, I attempted the Individual Physical Proficiency Test (IPPT) for fun today.

For Singapore guys, IPPT is an annual national service (NS) liability for those who are certified fit and have not completed the 10 operationally ready cycles after completing full time NS.

I did not train for running nor exercise much in recent months and was lucky to do 31 standard push ups and 30 sit ups with uncle belly, clocking 37 points out of 50 for static stations under my age group of 37 to 39.

The evening weather was good with cool breeze today. Track conditions was dry and perfect too.

I managed to run 2.4km in slightly over 14mins to gain 27 more points and pass with 64 points for $200!

Happy to earn back $200 to subsidise the $4.4k taxes which IRAS shall collect from me soon for nation building whereby a large part will be channelled into defence.

This shall me my last IPPT before I am put into Mindef Reserve at 40 year old next year.

Fitness + health > Wealth

This achievement will encourage me to exercise more this year.

As much as we focus on building wealth, I believe we should also take care of our own fitness and health despite our busy work schedule and family commitments.

Thanks for reading.

With love & peace,

Qiongster

Added Mapletree Industrial Trust

 

My orders for Mapletree Industrial Trust (MIT) are filled today as I added 5,275 shares.

I have long been wanting to increase my investment in Mapletree Industrial Trust from an odd number of 15,725 shares to at least 20,000 shares at a target price of below $2.08 for a dividend yield of at least 6.5%.

After MIT announced a dividend of $0.0336 last week despite revenue dipping 0.5% past quarter due to non- renewal of leases in its North America Portfolio and loss of income from divestment of its Tangling Halt factories, I believe the time is now ripe to make an addition.

MIT is on cum dividend for these 3 days till 7 May. By adding shares now, I will get to increase the dividends to be collected from MIT.

MIT is severely undervalued compared to it's historical valuations and future cashflows. DBS valued MIT at a target price of $2.60 based on discounted future cashflows and factoring in reduced future incomes from non renewal of leases. The last preferential offering in 2021 was at a price of $2.64.

Interest rate cuts are on the cards by the federal reserve and hopefully once the interest rate cuts are announced by later this year, the share price of MIT could recover by at least 10 to 20%.

MIT is still a resilient Reit with a portfolio of well located flatted factories, high-tech buildings with specifications catered to IT, media, bio-medical and varied industrial sectors. This diversification across different segments reduces its reliance on any single type of industrial property and the specific market conditions affecting it. Its large and diverse tenant base of over 2,000 tenants minimizes the impact of non-renewal or financial difficulties of any single tenant.

I am not bothered about short-term volatility but rather focused on long-term income investing in a well managed industrial Reit owning freehold data centres with long Wale and stable DPU above 6.5%.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. It's crucial to conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Thanks for reading.

With love and peace, 

Qiongster

Singapore GE 2025: Financial Lessons for Investors and Citizens

 

It's insightful to consider how a country's political landscape, as seen in a General Election, can intersect with and influence its financial outlook.

The Singapore General Election 2025 has concluded, and as the dust settles, it's time to analyse the potential financial implications of the results. While elections are primarily about political representation, they also have significant economic ramifications. Here's a breakdown of key financial lessons:

1. Stability and Investor Confidence:

 * A key takeaway from the GE 2025 results is the strong mandate given to the ruling People's Action Party (PAP). This level of political stability is often viewed favorably by investors, both local and international.

 * Investors tend to appreciate predictability. A stable political environment reduces uncertainties, encouraging long-term investments and fostering economic growth.

 * This stability can translate to a more robust Singaporean dollar, attractive foreign direct investment, and a healthy stock market.

* Most Singaporeans and investors would not entrust jokers who look left, look right, nor trust clowns, Tom, Dicks and Harry to be in parliament making a fool out of themselves. They would rather play safe with the incumbent government which is not perfect, but not that bad relative to any constitution in the world.

2. Policy Continuity and Economic Direction:

 * With the PAP's continued governance, we can expect a degree of policy continuity. This is crucial for businesses and individuals planning their financial futures.

 * Key economic policies related to areas like:

   * Infrastructure development.

   * Fiscal responsibility.

   * Attracting foreign investments.

 * These are likely to remain consistent. This allows for increased predictability for financial planning.

 * However, it is also important to note that the government will still have to remain flexible to adapt to changing global economic conditions.

3. Addressing Cost of Living Concerns:

 * A prominent issue during the election was the rising cost of living. The government's response to this will have significant financial implications for Singaporeans.

 * Potential measures could include:

   * Increased social support.

   * Policies to control inflation.

   * Investments in affordable housing.

 * These policies will directly impact household budgets and consumer spending.

 * It is very important for individuals to keep a close eye on any new policies that are implemented, and adjust their personal financial plans accordingly.

4. Navigating Global Economic Uncertainties:

 * Singapore, as a trade-dependent nation, is vulnerable to global economic shifts. The GE 2025 occurred amidst a backdrop of international economic turbulence.

 * The government's ability to navigate these uncertainties will be crucial. This includes:

   * Maintaining strong international trade relationships.

   * Diversifying the economy.

   * Building resilience against external shocks.

 * Investors should pay close attention to how the government responds to these challenges.

5. Long-Term Financial Planning:

 * The election results underscore the importance of long-term financial planning for individuals.

 * Factors to consider include:

   * Retirement planning.

   * Investing in education

   * Diversifying investment portfolios.

 * Understanding the government's economic direction can help individuals make informed financial decisions.

The Singapore GE 2025 provides valuable insights into the country's financial future. Political stability, policy continuity, and the government's response to economic challenges will all play a role in shaping Singapore's financial landscape. As investors and citizens, it's crucial to stay informed and adapt to the evolving economic environment.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. It's crucial to conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Thanks for reading.

With love and peace, 

Qiongster

Portfolio Update April 2025

Happy Labour Day on 1 May 2025. Time for an update of my investment portfolios.

My SGX Income Portfolio value decreases to $382k from $388k. S-Reits have remained sluggish after recent recoveries due to institutional inflows and the market sentiments do still believe that interest rates have peaked and will be cut at least 2 times in 2025. Immense fears from global trade war and potential recession have subsided but future uncertainties are still causing the US and Asian stock markets to stay volatile.

My US Growth Portfolio tanks to US$8.7k from US$10k due to my exposure to cash secured NVIDIA and GOOGL put options which have resulted in hefty paper losses. Nonetheless, I still believe in their long term growth potential and plan to keep rolling over the options to delay the expiry date or take assignment of the NVIDIA and GOOGL shares.

My SRS Ultra Long-Term Portfolio value falls to $206k from $212k mainly due to correction of OCBC share price.

Portfolio Actions

1. Bought 300 shares of DBS at $38.08 in SRS.

2. Subscribed 4,000 shares of Frasers Centrepoint Trust at $2.05.

3. Rollover 1 put option of Nvidia with strike price $116 with expiry date 19 Dec.

4. Rollup 1 put option of GOOGL with strike price $200 with expiry date Dec 26.

Portfolio Dividends

1. Received $303 of dividends from SSB on 1 Apr.

2. Received $147.50 of dividends from SSB in SRS on 1 Apr.

3. Received $600.60 of dividends from DBS on 16 Apr.

4. Received $300 of dividends from DBS in SRS on 16 Mar.

SGX Income Portfolio

Portfolio Value = $382k

US Growth Portfolio

Moomoo

Tiger Broker

US$7.6k

Syfe Trade

US$1.1k

Portfolio Value = US$8.7k

SRS Ultra Long-Term Portfolio

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. It's crucial to conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Thanks for reading.

With love and peace, 

Qiongster

Net Worth Update Apr 2025

  

My net worth rises slightly to S$1.837 million after CPF contributions, dividends and salary savings despite tanking by more than $60k at one point after Trump’s tariffs stirred carnage in the markets.

Net Worth Breakdown:

Safe Heavens (63%)

CPF (36%): CPF is the foundation of my retirement savings and wealth. I am comfortable with not investing my CPF funds and letting them idle to earn the basic 2.5% in OA and 4% in SA. I have shared the 8 key changes to CPF in 2025 previously.

Cash and war chest (17%): Liquid reserves strategically stashed in fixed deposits and Fullerton cash funds earn around 2.5% p.a. This financial cushion provides me with a peace of mind and security for unexpected expenses or investment opportunities.

Bonds (10%): A balanced portfolio of low-risk Singapore Savings Bonds and Astrea Bond ensures stability. I have maxed out my SSB individual limit of $200k in Aug 2024, just before the interest rates declined.

Retirement Savings (15%)

SRS (11%): This tax-deferred savings account provides a supplementary source of retirement savings and its value has recently surpassed $200k despite a cumulative contribution of less than $150k in past 8 years. I have completed the $15.3k contribution to maximise the annual individual limit for this year. My SRS funds are invested in $30k of SSB and 6 local stocks - Comfortdelgro, DBS, OCBC, Keppel DC Reit, Keppel Reit and Wilmar. Recently, I have also used SRS funds to add more DBS shares, nibble Amundi Prime USA fund to gain exposure to S&P 500 tech growth businesses and stash away in Fullerton SGD Money Market Funds to yield 2.5% p.a. instead of meagre 0.05%.

Insurance (4%): A Prudential whole life insurance plan and other savings plans will provide me with 6-digit lump sum payout after my retirement while offering continual protection for peace of mind. I have also upgraded my MediShield life to integrated shield plan for private hospital coverage.

Equities (22%)

Stocks and Reits (22%): A real estate-oriented portfolio of stocks and Reits, focuses on long-term dividend income and stability. This segment of financial assets is riskier, more volatile and sensitive to interest rates but offers me the opportunity to indirectly own diversified portfolios of industrial, retail and commercial properties locally, and around the world for consistent passive income.

The Pursuit of FIRE

Our net worth is a rough measure of our wealth to provide us with the peace of mind. The focus on building passive income streams and growing my overall net worth is not solely about retiring early. It is about creating options in life to possibly regain time, location and financial freedom.  It is about having the choice to pursue passions, work less, focus on living life on this earth, and navigate life's uncertainties without financial stress.  This journey is about building a foundation of security that empowers us with choices in life.

I hope to achieve my next milestone of SGD 1.85m soon in the coming months and $36k annual passive income by end of this year.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. It's crucial to conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Thanks for reading.

With love and peace, 

Qiongster

Subscribed to Frasers Centrepoint Trust Preferential Offering at $2.05

I subscribed to 4,000 Frasers Centrepoint Trust (FCT) preferential offer (PO) shares at $2.05 today.

As I currently own 12,000 FCT shares, my entitled right is 648 FCT PO shares based on the allocation ratio of 54 shares per 1,000 shares owned. My Subscription of 4,000 PO shares include the 648 entitled shares and 3,352 excess shares.

In Mar 2025, Frasers Centrepoint Trust (FCT) has issued 105.3m shares at $2.09 from private placement to institutional investors to raise funds of $220m to partially fund the acquisition of Northpoint City South Wing from North Gem Trust for $1.2b.

This PO exercise for retail investors will raise another $201.3m and the last date/time of acceptance will be on this Wednesday, 16 April 2025 at 5.30pm.

This yield accretive acquisition of Northpoint City South Wing is a strong diversification and consolidation move to cement FCT's position as heartland mall king in Singapore. After the acquisition, FCT effectively owns Northpoint City fully and will still be the only pure local retail mall Reit in Singapore which also owns Causeway Point, 50% of NEX, Century Square, Waterway Point and Tampines One etc. I hope and believe that FCT will eventually also acquire Nex fully to also give shareholders an opportunity to participate in equity fund raising again.

FCT has always been in my watchlist to grow my SGX income portfolio for more dividend income. It will be announcing its results and the dividends of 1H FY25 on 29 Apr 2024, which is expected to be between 6.13 and 6.17 cents.

My recent visits to Northpoint City and Tiong Bahru Plaza owned by FCT have been encouraged by great shopper traffic, strong retail sales, high tenancy and highly efficient usage of atrium spaces for sales events. 

FCT is a stable S-Reit which allows investors to own a slice of the suburban malls in Singapore, thereby collecting some “rental income” to offset our daily expenses or fuel our compounding growth of investments.

At current market of $2.13, FCT is trading at 6% below its net asset value of $2.28 and yielding more than 5.5%. As the PO price of $2.05 is still lower than the market price, net asset value and private placement price, I am comfortable with the margin of safety and feel obliged to subscribe to the PO shares including excess, saving up commission and trading fees than if I were to buy from open market.

I believe it is a no brainer to add FCT for long-term investment albeit the short-term volatility due to immense fears and uncertainties over impact from tariff policies, trade war, potential economic recession and interest rates.

Thanks for reading.

Related posts:

Added FCT

Applied for FCT Preferential Offer Shares

Nibbled FCT

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. It's crucial to conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

With love & peace,

Qiongster

Lost a Bomb after Market Crash? Stay Calm and don't Panic!

 

Ouch! There's no easy way to put it – seeing a significant chunk of your portfolio value evaporate in a market downturn is a gut punch. 

For me, that recent dip translated to a paper loss of more than $60,000, representing more than 3% of my net worth and many months of my salaried income. And let's be honest, even though we intellectually understand that these fluctuations are part of the investment game, it still hurts. A lot.

If you're feeling that same knot of anxiety in your stomach, know that you're not alone. This isn't the first rodeo for many of us. Memories of 2020, 2018, even the more distant echoes of 2009, likely resurfaced. It feels like the same old story playing out again – a sharp decline that leaves us questioning our decisions and staring at red numbers on our screens.

It's easy to get caught up in the immediate panic. The news headlines scream of market turmoil, friends, experts and analysts whisper about potential further drops, and the urge to do something – anything – to stop the bleeding can be overwhelming.

But here's the crucial point, the mantra we need to repeat to ourselves during these turbulent times: this is often the price of admission to the long-term wealth-building journey.

Market cycles are a fundamental aspect of investing. Periods of exuberant growth are often followed by corrections and even crashes. These downturns can be triggered by a myriad of factors – economic slowdowns, geopolitical events, shifts in investor sentiment, or even just a natural cooling-off after a period of rapid expansion.

And yes, it can feel incredibly unfair. The narrative that "the rich get richer" during these times often stems from the fact that those with more capital can often weather these storms more comfortably and may even be able to capitalize on discounted asset prices. Meanwhile, those with less financial cushion can feel more vulnerable and trapped.

However, succumbing to panic and making rash decisions is often the biggest mistake we can make. Selling low locks in those paper losses and prevents us from participating in the eventual recovery. As history has repeatedly shown, broad market indexes like the S&P 500 have a long-term upward trajectory, weathering numerous crises and ultimately reaching new highs.

So, what can we do when the market takes a nosedive?

 * Breathe. Seriously. Take a moment to step away from your screens and acknowledge your emotions without letting them dictate your actions.

 * Remember your long-term strategy. Why did you invest in the first place? What are your financial goals? A temporary market dip shouldn't derail a well-thought-out long-term plan.

 * Resist the urge to panic sell. This is often the most damaging reaction. Selling low crystallizes losses and means you'll miss out on the rebound.

 * Focus on what you can control. You can't control the market, but you can control your contributions (if you're still in the accumulation phase), your asset allocation (ensure it still aligns with your risk tolerance and time horizon), and your spending.

 * Consider it an opportunity (if you have the means). For long-term investors with available capital, market downturns can present opportunities to buy quality assets at discounted prices. Think of it as a sale on your favorite stocks or ETFs.

 * Review your portfolio, but don't obsess. It's wise to periodically check your asset allocation, but constantly monitoring daily fluctuations will likely only increase your anxiety.

 * If you're trading on margin, act decisively to cut losses. Margin calls can amplify losses significantly. Regroup, understand what went wrong, and re-strategize without the added pressure of margin.

This recent market dip is a stark reminder that investing involves risk and that volatility is a normal part of the process. It's uncomfortable, it can be disheartening, but it's not the end of the world, and it's certainly not unprecedented.

So, let's take a collective deep breath. Let's stay calm, stay cool, and remain focused on the long term. This too shall pass, and those who maintain a disciplined and patient approach are more likely to reap the rewards in the long run. We've seen this cycle before, and while it never gets easy emotionally, understanding its nature is the first step towards navigating it successfully.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Investment decisions should be made based on individual circumstances and after careful consideration of risks and potential rewards.

Thanks for reading.

With love and peace, 

Qiongster

Scooped DBS

 

This week, the share price of DBS (SGX:D05) plummeted by more than $5 or 10% following the US president's global tariffs announcement, igniting trade war fears and amplified concerns of a global recession and economic slowdown.

I smelt blood on the streets, pounced on my passive income greed to catch the falling knife amidst the global fears to add some DBS shares using idle SRS funds.

There it goes.

Ideally, I would prefer to add DBS at below $40 and the time is now. 

At its peak of $46, DBS has a forward yield of more than 6.5% assuming annual dividend of $3 (inclusive of 4 quarters of $0.6 dividends and $0.15 capital return) and based on less than 60% payout ratio. Hence it is very attractive relative to S-Reits which pay at least 90% of their income to achieve more than 5% yield. 

In the past weeks, DBS has been buying back its own shares at between $36 and $44 as part of its $3 Billion share buyback programme. Hence, I feel that at $38, DBS is fairly valuated by the markets to factor in its future lower net interest margin income, greater uncertainties and lower growth prospects.

I am determined to make the idle funds in my SRS work harder after they were recycled from the sale of ST Engineering in my SRS portfolio last year.

It is crucial that long-term investors like us always remain calm, unwavered and focused on our investment objectives.

While the share prices of local banks and US tech stocks may remain volatile and continue to tank, we have nothing to fear if we are in the game for the long haul.

I shall continue to monitor and shall not hesitate to add more local bank or other great company shares for alignment with my investment objectives in the future.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Investment decisions should be made based on individual circumstances and after careful consideration of risks and potential rewards.

Thanks for reading.

With love and peace, 

Qiongster