The Financial Coconut Podcast

We explore the topic of sustainability and how SMEs approach this theme. We sat down with business leaders from different industries to discuss their perspectives, as well as opportunities and challenges surrounding sustainability.Beyond reducing their carbon footprints, we also touched on long-term business growth.You'll hear their candid reflections on how their sustainability journeys began, whether initially driven by opportunities or external factors. We also address a common concern –how can businesses balance sustainability efforts with profitability?Gather insights from UOB's recent study on rising costs, market expansion, and more. Take away practical advice, tools and resources available to SMEs to get started on building sustainable businesses. We also discuss what sustainability reporting and planning for the future could mean for your company in the years ahead.Join us for an informative discussion on this topic.For more information on UOB’s recent study: https://go.uob.com/4gSi0rA00:00 - Intro00:57 - Guests' Introduction05:52 - How do you balance sustainability with business growth?10:16 - What does sustainability look like in practice for you?24:38 - How do sustainability efforts impact consumer choices and business differentiation?29:22 - What advice would you give competitors struggling to implement sustainability while barely surviving?32:42 - When should SMEs start focusing on advanced business strategies?---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-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 Chinese brands truly taking over global markets? Host Reggie and co-host Alex Low sat with marketing veterans and guests Lovie Li Account Director & Partner, Deren Marketing, and Xiao Saunders, Bilingual Fitness Franchise & Licensing Consultant to unpack the secrets behind successful cross-border brand expansion.From billion-dollar Chinese tech companies to Western fitness franchises, discover why some brands thrive while others fail when entering new markets. Our experts share fascinating behind-the-scenes stories about brand localisation, marketing strategies, and the real costs of going global.Whether you're a business owner looking to expand into China or curious about how Chinese brands are revolutionising customer experience worldwide, this episode offers valuable insights from industry insiders who've been in the trenches.Don't miss this candid discussion about the future of global commerce and where the real opportunities lie. Listen now.---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-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.

We dive into a critical topic affecting professionals worldwide - layoffs. Featuring guests Shao Chun Chen, a former Google employee who went viral after sharing his layoff experience and now, Host of YT channel "9 to 5 Millionaire Mindset," and Nina Devouge, a veteran recruitment expert and CEO of ElluminateGet perspectives on:Why waiting until layoff happens is too lateUnderstanding the emotional and financial impactsPractical strategies to stay ahead of the curveBreaking the stigma around layoffsHow to navigate the transition periodWhether you're currently employed or between roles, this candid discussion provides valuable strategies to help you stay ahead of the curve in today's evolving job market. Tune in to this eye-opening episode to learn why waiting until after a layoff happens is too late.04:36 Were there signs before the layoff?06:44 What was your financial response to the layoff?10:24 How can layoff stigma be minimized?18:43 Does high pay make employees vulnerable in layoffs?22:26 How do you compassionately deliver layoff news?33:13 How should you prepare for layoffs?---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-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 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-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-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.

They say the world is your oyster when you're a small business owner, but how do you actually crack it open? For savvy Singapore entrepreneurs, the answer may lie closer than you think - just a short hop across the causeway.This week on the TFC Business Show, we're diving deep into the glocal talent strategies that are allowing our island's SMEs to punch way above their weight. From tapping into ASEAN's vast skilled labor pool, to strategic overseas stints for homegrown leaders, we'll explore how going regional is the new staying local.Our guests? Two seasoned insiders who've helped SMEs of all sizes navigate this frontier. Yeo Puay Lim from HR tech firm Glints has facilitated cross-border team building for startups and MNCs alike. Meanwhile, Shirley Lim, Deputy Director at Workforce Singapore will share little-known government incentives to support your regional talent plays.Supercharging your growth, maximizing your Singapore core's potential, and gaining a foothold in thriving ASEAN markets - it's all on the menu. Tune in as we undress the opportunities and challenges of becoming a true regional SME powerhouse.So grab your coconuts and get ready to think global while acting natively local. This is the future of smart small business in Singapore - are you ready?00:00 - Introduction03:12 - In the talent pool space, what are the struggles SME bosses face?06:57 - How are we keeping up to still land jobs here?10:31 - In terms of helping Singapore companies place locals elsewhere, what do you want to achieve from that?12:58 - What then is the Singapore Core?25:10 - What processes can work?28:01 - Tidbits for SME bosses/ Singapore Core for the next decade---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-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.

We go into one of today's hottest workplace trends - the 4-day work week. Is it just a pipe dream or could it become the new normal?Joining us is Nina Devouge, CEO and founder of Elleuminate, and Danny Tan Managing Director, Grayling Singapore, who shares real-world insights from implementing flexible work arrangements in their organizations. From boosting productivity to managing client expectations, discover the surprising realities of shortened work weeks and what it could mean for the future of work in Asia.Want to know if a 4-day work week could work for your company? Curious about how employers are navigating this major shift? Tune in to hear practical experiences, unexpected challenges, and valuable lessons learned from leaders who've taken the leap.04:05 How do you balance clients with fewer work hours?07:35 How do you handle low performers on a shorter schedule?13:29 What challenges come with ‘quiet vacationing’ remotely?20:15 Does culture affect 4-day week feasibility?22:11 Does a shorter week affect stress positively?28:40 Do leaders practice what they preach on flexibility?33:39 Is 4.5-day week a USP for Grayling?---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-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.

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 overlookWhether 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-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-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 an entrepreneur seeking new frontiers? Or just curious about the Cambodia business buzz? Join us for a fascinating peek into why more and more Singaporean companies are venturing into the Kingdom of Wonder..We chat with the President of Singapore Cambodia Venture Club, Executive Director of Hong Lai Huat Group and CEO of House of Brands to explore the appealing for sectors like F&B, retail, and property development, from its youthful workforce to investor-friendly policies.But it’s not all smooth sailing. We’ll dive into the real challenges, including training needs and supply chain issues, and discuss how to effectively tackle them. Whether you're an entrepreneur or just intrigued by the Cambodia buzz, this conversation is for you! Tune in for insights on the growing economic ties between Singapore and Cambodia and discover when you can also apply for the MRA grant for expansion to Cambodia.---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-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.