The Financial Coconut Podcast

Curious how Singapore’s annual Budget comes to life?Tune in as our hosts Reggie and Adrian, author of “No More Bosses,” dive deep with two top minds from the Ministry of Finance (MOF):- Lim Ming Jing (Director, Social Programmes) and- John Koh (Budget 2025 Director and concurrently Director, Security & Resilience Programmes)What’s in store?- Behind-the-scenes revelations on balancing immediate concerns (think CDC vouchers!) with longer-term nation-building.- Why vouchers over cash?- The story behind SkillsFuture’s evolution—and how your feedback shapes policies.- "Theory of Change": How ministries pitch ideas (and why some get funded while others don’t).- Candid takes on taxing wealth, ageing populations, and why your family’s income matters more than you think.Ming Jing and John pull back the curtain on the gritty realities of policy-making—from managing public concerns to competing global pressures. Whether you’re a policy nerd or just want to know where your tax dollars go, this episode is packed with aha moments you won’t hear anywhere else.Tune in for a masterclass in governance—and find out why even middle-class Singaporeans might rethink their gripes about the Budget.---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-spotifyApple Podcast: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-applepodcastYouTube: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-youtube[Connect with us]Instagram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-instagramTik Tok: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-tiktokTelegram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-telegramWhatsapp: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Whatsapp-channelNewsletter: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-NewsletterCheck out our other shows: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFinancialCoconutTFC/playlistsDisclaimer: 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.

What does it take to scale from a single rented house to becoming Singapore’s largest co-living operator with nearly 5,000 keys?We sat with Eugene Lim, Founder and CEO of The Assembly Place (TAP), for an unfiltered conversation about bold pivots, gritty beginnings, and building a real estate business with purpose.In this episode:From broke uni student to building a 20-year real estate careerWhy co-living is more than just renting roomsHow TAP is expanding into regional markets like KL and eyeing global hotspots like Japan and LondonThe strategic shift from operator to asset co-ownerFundraising, building lean with tech, and the road to a potential SGX listingWhether you're a budding entrepreneur or just curious how the co-living model works behind the scenes, this is one founder story you won’t want to miss.#business #entrepreneur #singapore #businessgrowth #businessstrategy #businesstips---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-spotifyApple Podcast: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-applepodcastYouTube: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-youtube[Connect with us]Instagram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-instagramTik Tok: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-tiktokTelegram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-telegramWhatsapp: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Whatsapp-channelNewsletter: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-NewsletterCheck out our other shows: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFinancialCoconutTFC/playlistsDisclaimer: 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.

What happens when DEI—once a corporate buzzword—quietly fades into the background? Has inclusion lost its value, or is it simply evolving? We dive into the heated debate around diversity, equity, and inclusion in today’s shifting workplace landscape.Meet the Guests:Nina Devouge - CEO, Elleuminate Group; A People Culture & Talent Expert with 20+ years in HR, sharing raw insights on why “optics” alone won’t build inclusive teamsSunil Puri - Senior VP & Head of Research; A leadership strategist from the Stewardship Asia Center, blending academic rigor with real-world stories about sustainable, values-driven organisationsKey Points You Won’t Want to Miss:The Rebranding of DEI: Why terms like “culture” and “belonging” are taking center stage—and what it means for your organisationThe ROI Myth: Debunking the biggest misconceptions about inclusivity’s impact on business successMiddle Managers’ Secret Weapon: Practical, no-fluff strategies to foster psychological safety and allyship—even without a dedicated DEI teamGeopolitical Tensions: How global politics are reshaping corporate priorities (and what it means for your career)Whether you’re a CEO, a team lead, or just curious about the future of work, this episode will challenge your assumptions and leave you with actionable takeaways.---Unlock global business potential with WorldFirst:Your all-in-one business account for global payments. Pay in 100+ currencies, collect in 20+ currencies with local bank details including USD, MYR, THB, CNH and more by opening a zero-cost multi-currency account. No minimum balance required. Enjoy unlimited 1.2% cashback on business expenses with their World Card!Act now to claim exclusive rewards: New users receive a USD100 sign-up bonus with code “EXCLUSIVEOFFER” (valid until 31 May 2025). Dive into effortless global transactions today:🔗 Explore the World Card🔗 Claim Your USD100 Sign-up Bonus---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[Connect with us]InstagramTelegramWhatsappNewsletterDisclaimer: 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.

Did you know your lifetime healthcare insurance could cost nearly a million dollars?Join special guests as they pull back the curtain on the jaw-dropping mechanics of Integrated Shield Plans:Alex Lee, Chief ActuaryDavid Wu, Minimalist in the City & Financial CoachEddy Cheong, CEO of HavendIn this episode, uncover:Why premiums keep skyrocketing — and the hidden "buffet syndrome" driving your costs up.The real impact of medical inflation and how it’s quietly draining your savings.Expert strategies to decide: Do you REALLY need that premium plan?A candid debate on public vs. private healthcare — is faster treatment worth the price tag?Eddie brings insider insights on conflict-free insurance advice, while Alex breaks down the actuarial secrets behind pricing and reserves."It’s not just insurance — it’s a climate change-level problem we’re creating for each other."Don’t miss this eye-opening deep dive into one of Singapore’s most pressing financial dilemmas. Whether you’re 25 or 65, this episode could save you hundreds of thousands in the long run.Tune in now — before your next premium renewal hits!---Unlock global business potential with WorldFirst:Your all-in-one business account for global payments. Pay in 100+ currencies, collect in 20+ currencies with local bank details including USD, MYR, THB, CNH and more by opening a zero-cost multi-currency account. No minimum balance required. Enjoy unlimited 1.2% cashback on business expenses with their World Card!Act now to claim exclusive rewards: New users receive a USD100 sign-up bonus with code “EXCLUSIVEOFFER” (valid until 31 May 2025). Dive into effortless global transactions today:🔗 Explore the World Card🔗 Claim Your USD100 Sign-up Bonus---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[Connect with us]InstagramTelegramWhatsappNewsletterDisclaimer: 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.

Survival, innovation, and the secret sauce behind thriving in one of the toughest industries—this episode, in partnership with RespectSG, is a masterclass in resilience!Join our two titans of Singapore’s F&B scene:- Danny Loong, CEO of Timber Group and chairman of Respect SG, who’s redefining placemaking with live music, hawker hubs, and a mission to balance profit with purpose- Mustaffa Kamal, founder of Black Hole Group, the brains behind 20+ buzzing F&B concepts, who reveals how pivoting from hipster cafes to halal Mexican joints kept his brands alive for over a decadeWhat’s in store?- Behind-the-scenes struggles: From razor-thin margins to the real cost of "viral" success- Respect SG’s game-changer: How a youth internship program is reshaping perceptions—and why Gen Z might just save the F&B industry- The "respect factor": Why treating staff and customers with dignity isn’t just nice—it’s profitableTune in for raw stories, hard-earned wisdom, and the hustle behind your favorite dining spots. Whether you’re a business owner, foodie, or just love a good underdog story—this episode will leave you hungry for more.#business #entrepreneur #singapore #businessgrowth #businessstrategy #businesstips---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-spotifyApple Podcast: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-applepodcastYouTube: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-youtube[Connect with us]Instagram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-instagramTik Tok: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-tiktokTelegram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-telegramWhatsapp: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Whatsapp-channelNewsletter: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-NewsletterCheck out our other shows: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFinancialCoconutTFC/playlistsDisclaimer: 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.

Curious how your salary stacks up in today’s competitive job market? Wondering if it’s the right time to ask for a raise—or how to future-proof your career in the age of AIGet answers as we explore Singapore’s salary trends, workplace flexibility wars, and the skills you need to stay ahead.Guests:- Ken Ong, Country Head at Morgan McKinley, unveils shocking salary benchmarks and why roles are shifting across borders.- Puay Lim Yeo, Partner at Talentkraft, shares game-changing tips on upskilling, negotiating non-financial perks, and bridging the gap between data experts and business leaders.Discover:- The hidden trends reshaping Singapore’s job market (and what they mean for YOU)- Why "doing more with less" might be your biggest career opportunity- How to outsmart AI in job applications—without losing your authenticity- The one skill employers are desperate for (hint: it’s not just coding!)Whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder, eyeing a career pivot, or just want to decode your paycheck, this episode is packed with insider insights you can’t afford to miss.Listen now and level up your career strategy!---Unlock global business potential with WorldFirst:Your all-in-one business account for global payments. Pay in 100+ currencies, collect in 20+ currencies with local bank details including USD, MYR, THB, CNH and more by opening a zero-cost multi-currency account. No minimum balance required. Enjoy unlimited 1.2% cashback on business expenses with their World Card!Act now to claim exclusive rewards: New users receive a USD100 sign-up bonus with code “EXCLUSIVEOFFER” (valid until 31 May 2025). Dive into effortless global transactions today:🔗 Explore the World Card🔗 Claim Your USD100 Sign-up Bonus---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[Connect with us]InstagramTelegramWhatsappNewsletterDisclaimer: 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.

Are Singapore banks the golden ticket to bulletproof investing? Or is the ship sailing just as the storm clouds gather?Join Reggie, your Chief Financial Coconut, and special guest Willie Keng—Founder of DividendTitan.com and a seasoned expert in dividend investing—as they crack open the vault on one of Singapore’s most debated topics: Should you invest in local banks?What you can expect:- The "3-6-3 Rule" that’s kept banks profitable for decades (hint: it’s not what you think).- Critical metrics every investor MUST check before buying bank stocks (spoiler: deposits aren’t just for savings accounts).- Why wealth management is quietly reshaping Singapore’s banking giants—and what it means for your portfolio.- The red flags even seasoned investors miss when evaluating banks (think Lehman Brothers and Credit Suisse).- Valuation secrets: Are Singapore banks overpriced? Willie reveals his surprising ranking of the "Big Three."- Bonus: How Hong Kong and China’s financial turbulence could create hidden opportunities for savvy investors.Willie breaks down complex banking strategies into bite-sized wisdom, while Reggie challenges him with hard-hitting questions. Whether you’re a dividend hunter or a growth seeker, this episode arms you with a framework to navigate banking stocks—without the jargon.Banking on success? Tune in before the market closes the door. ---Unlock global business potential with WorldFirst:Your all-in-one business account for global payments. Pay in 100+ currencies, collect in 20+ currencies with local bank details including USD, MYR, THB, CNH and more by opening a zero-cost multi-currency account. No minimum balance required. Enjoy unlimited 1.2% cashback on business expenses with their World Card!Act now to claim exclusive rewards: New users receive a USD100 sign-up bonus with code “EXCLUSIVEOFFER” (valid until 31 May 2025). Dive into effortless global transactions today:🔗 Explore the World Card🔗 Claim Your USD100 Sign-up Bonus---03:43 - Can you explain how banks generate revenue?06:38 - How do capital rules affect how much banks can lend and their risk?19:11 - Besides loan interest, what other ways do banks make money today?27:32 - How do you compare the three big banks for investment?32:06 - How much does management quality matter when comparing these banks?34:33 - What valuation range would you prefer for investing in local banks?37:02 - Are there opportunities in the undervalued financial sector?---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.

Are you ready to peek behind the curtain of the AI revolution?Dive into the world of enterprise AI with two extraordinary guests who are reshaping how businesses make decisions:Mark Leadercramer, AlphaSense APAC Regional Director. A tech veteran who transitioned from Stripe to the cutting-edge world of AI-powered market intelligenceSerene Keng, EDBI Director of Value Creation & Communications. The strategic mind behind Singapore's venture capital approach to emerging technologiesHighlight:- Discover why trustworthy AI is the ultimate game-changer for Fortune 500 companies and investors- Learn how AlphaSense blends proprietary data with AI to power billion-dollar decisions—without the hallucinations- Get insights into the future of enterprise intelligence that's happening RIGHT NOW- Explore Singapore’s strategic role as a global AI hub and why investors like EDBI are investing in this sector- The rise of “agentic AI” and what it means for the future of work“AI isn’t about replacing humans—it’s about amplifying our critical thinking. But if you’re still using free tools, you’re already behind.”Don’t miss this episode if you’re ready to cut through the AI noise and uncover actionable insights for your business or portfolio. Tune in now!02:03 What’s EDBI’s main investment mission?09:15 Why do companies choose AlphaSense instead of building in-house?15:15 How big is the opportunity space for AlphaSense?30:52 Which new careers should Singaporeans look into because of AI?#aitools #agenticai #businessgrowth #thefinancialcoconut---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[Connect with us]Instagram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-instagramTelegram: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-telegramWhatsapp: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-Whatsapp-channelNewsletter: https://rebrand.ly/TFC-NewsletterDisclaimer: 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.

Are you a tech professional feeling lost in the layoff cycle? Or maybe you're in another industry facing similar challenges? This episode of Wise Shine is a must-listen!We dive into the power of alumni networks, emotional resilience, and reinvention in the tech world. Join us and our guests:✨ Christopher Fong – Co-Founder/President of Key, and Founder of Xoogler – A former Google leader turned community architect, who’s built a 33,000-strong global alumni network to support laid-off tech professionals. Discover how he turned layoffs into lifelines and why "Xoogler" is now a badge of strength.✨ Stanley Kan – The "4-job hustler" who cracked the code to rebounding from career shocks. Learn how he turned networking into an art form (even as a self-proclaimed introvert) and why your LinkedIn might be your next career lifeline.Sneak Peek:- The hidden emotional toll of layoffs – Why "losing your job" doesn’t mean losing your worth- Networking hacks for introverts – How to thrive without burning out your social battery- From LinkedIn ghosts to influencers – Crafting a profile that screams "hire me" in a noisy job market- Why alumni communities are the new career safety net – Real stories of hope, hustle, and second chances- The 15-minute exit strategy – How to escape awkward networking conversations (without being rude)Tune in to learn how to turn career setbacks into opportunities and build a thriving professional network that supports you every step of the way!---Unlock global business potential with WorldFirst:Your all-in-one business account for global payments. Pay in 100+ currencies, collect in 20+ currencies with local bank details including USD, MYR, THB, CNH and more by opening a zero-cost multi-currency account. No minimum balance required. Enjoy unlimited 1.2% cashback on business expenses with their World Card!Act now to claim exclusive rewards: New users receive a USD100 sign-up bonus with code “EXCLUSIVEOFFER” (valid until 31 May 2025). Dive into effortless global transactions today:🔗 Explore the World Card🔗 Claim Your USD100 Sign-up Bonus---13:37 Which events have made the most impact in helping people, particularly after layoffs?23:45 Should ex-tech professionals work for startups for free to gain experience and build their portfolio?27:15 How can you build real relationships while networking?31:57 How do you know which networking events are valuable?37:55 How can small, casual gatherings help connect people worried about job security due to AI?41:51 How effective have alumni groups been in helping members secure jobs quickly?---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.