The Financial Coconut Podcast

What happens when you climb the corporate ladder, hit financial freedom… and then walk away from it all?Joining us is Shao, ex-Googler turned full-time YouTuber, who made headlines (and stirred the comments section) when he left Singapore and relocated to Chiang Mai. Was it burnout? Was it strategy? Or just a rebellious sabbatical?Tune in as we explore:- Why some Singaporeans are quietly “rebasing” overseas- The hidden cost of working in Singapore- What freedom really looks like after a layoff- How geo-arbitrage could be the next smart money move- And... is it really betrayal to leave Singapore?Shao doesn’t hold back—whether he’s laughing off the haters or revealing how a monthly lease and Grab rides replaced his CBD commute. If you’ve ever wondered, “Could I leave Singapore too?” —this episode will make you rethink what’s possible.Subscribe now and join the conversation: Is rebasing a betrayal or a smart financial play? ---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! Check out WorldFirstUSD100 sign-up bonus with “EXCLUSIVEOFFER” code. Available for sign-ups until 31 May 2025. T&Cs apply.---03:32 - Do you still like Singapore?11:00 - Why did you choose this destination over others?18:13 - How can Singaporeans leverage their advantages when considering life abroad?23:04 - You’ve shared cost comparisons, but what’s your full monthly expense?33:34 - How has your view of freedom evolved since leaving corporate life?---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/playlists 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.

Is the "safest bet" in investing actually... risky? What if your blue chips aren’t as stable as you think?Dive into the high-stakes world of blue chip stocks with three investing heavyweights:- Willie Keng, Founder of Dividend Titan- Chuin Ting Weber, CFP, CFA, CAIA, CEO & CIO, MoneyOwl- Kelwin Li, Principal Investment Specialist, Singapore Humble StockExpect a dynamic discussion on:- Singapore vs. Global Blue Chips: Why local giants like DBS and Singtel might not be your retirement heroes.- Dividend Traps: The psychological allure of dividends—and when they’re a “false sense of security.”- Warren Buffett’s Ghost: How Coca-Cola’s 50-year win still shapes today’s strategies (and why most investors get it wrong).- AI & Quantum Computing: The silent killers reshaping blue chips—are Singapore’s big players adapting fast enough?Are blue chip stocks the key to long-term wealth, or is it time to rethink their role in your strategy? Tune in to find out!---Unlock global business potential with WorldFirst: Your all-in-one payment platform 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!Check out WorldFirst latest offerings hereLearn more about WorldFirstUSD100 sign-up bonus with “EXCLUSIVEOFFER” code. Available for sign-ups until 31 May 2025. T&Cs apply.---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.

Ever wondered if your boss would fire you for having a side hustle? Or how to pivot careers when you’re juggling family, finances, and fear?Join Shazaf Moonis, Psychologist, and CEO of Linkked as we dive into the unspoken rules of balancing ambition with survival and hear about:- The hidden risks (and rewards) of moonlighting in a strict corporate culture.- "Should you tell your boss?" Transparency vs. privacy: When honesty could cost you your job.- Western vs. Asian workplace vibes: Why some companies embrace side gigs, while others penalise themPlus, we tackle a heart-tugging question from a 37-year-old single working mom desperate to pivot careers without losing her livelihood. Get expert insights from our clinical psychologist guest on why decisions driven by desire trump those fueled by fear.Your 9-to-5 shouldn’t own your 5-to-9." – ReggieListen now and redefine what it means to manage your future.00:00 Intro03:10 Hope, 35, Medical Lab Technologist13:10 Audience Member: Side hustle without risking main job28:57 Audience Member: Govt Sector34:41 Single work Mom, 37, Manager#sidehustle #earnmoney #career---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.

Ever wondered what it really takes to sit on a company's board of directors? Is it the cushy retirement gig many imagine it to be, or something far more complex?Join experienced CEO, and board chair serving on multiple prestigious boards, to pull back the curtain on the world of directorship- Su-Yen Wong, Past Chair, Singapore Institute of Directors- Terence Quek, CEO, Singapore Institute of DirectorsThey'll explore:- What board directors actually do (hint: it's not just approving budgets!)- The surprising pathways to joining your first board- Why directorship is evolving into a serious profession requiring specific skills- Whether the compensation is worth the responsibility (including potential legal liability!)Plus, get insider perspectives on boardroom dynamics during company crises, and discover if your background might make you a valuable board candidate.Whether you're plotting your post-executive career or simply curious about how corporate governance really works, this episode offers rare insights into a role that shapes organisations but remains mysterious to most.Tune in to discover if joining a board could be your viable retirement plan—or if you might want to think twice!01:35 - What does SID do, and what role does it play?04:35 - How does the board of directors decide to remove management, and what does that process involve?10:15 - Do board members earn a lot, and is it worth their time?25:20 - What are the pathways to becoming a board member?27:49 - How is a board structured, and what are its common roles?30:20 - What does it take to approve people, budgets, and decisions on a board?35:46 - How do you join a board, and who selects the members and chairman?---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/playlists 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 leaving money on the table when it comes to your compensation? We tackle a challenge many Asians struggle with: negotiating your salary!What you'll discover:- The psychology behind why negotiating feels so difficult- Strategic timing: when to ask for a raise (and when not to)- How to document your achievements to build a bulletproof case- Navigating difficult situations when your manager isn't your advocateFeaturing expert insights from:- Souhila Keffi, Salary negotiation advisor and founder of the Pay Edge; a compensation specialist with 20 years of experience across various industries, most notably, US tech giant Amazon, Finance powerhouses like Franklin Templeton, AIA and Aomori Hewitt- Nina Devouge, CEO & Founder of Elleuminate, and former HR professional who's been on the other side of the negotiation tableDon't miss these insider secrets from HR professionals who've been in the rooms where compensation decisions happen! Whether you're preparing for your annual review or considering a career move, this episode will equip you with practical strategies to confidently ask for what you deserve.Tune in to transform your approach to salary conversations and take control of your financial future!00:00 Intro03:02 Why does salary negotiation feel uncomfortable for most people?05:25 When should employees bring up salary negotiations?11:14 What’s the best way to gather inside information on pay structures?18:22 How do I negotiate a raise if my manager isn’t on my side?24:28 How can I negotiate a pay raise outside of the annual review?33:52 What’s the best way to handle a rejected pay raise request?#negotiation #salary #career ---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/playlists 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.

We're pulling back the curtain on some of the more critical trends shaping investments in 2025.Join us as we welcome two seasoned investment experts, Chin Hui Leong, Co-founder, The Smart Investor, and Thomas Chua, Founder of Steady Compounding, who are about to unpack:- The surprising AI revolution transforming tech giants- Why some brands are winning – and others are struggling- The truth behind the market's long-term growth potentialIs the legendary 8-10% annual return still intact? Are American brands losing their global edge? And what role will artificial intelligence play in reshaping entire industries?From Meta's AI strategies to the battle between tech titans, this episode promises insights you won't hear anywhere else. We're diving deep into advertising ecosystems, digital transformation, and the critical shifts happening right now.One hint: Not all industries are created equal, and the winners might surprise you.#InvestmentInsights #US Market #TechTrends202500:00 Introduction03:24 Will the US stock market sustain long-term growth, and where should investors focus beyond tech?05:28 How will AI reshape industries, and which sectors offer the best investment opportunities?13:05 How will AI and automation impact total addressable markets (TAMs) and industry growth?15:30 Can AI-driven advertising sustain growth for Meta and Google amid evolving user behavior?20:21 How will SaaS firms adapt to AI integration and competition from emerging players like Lark?26:25 Can Oracle and SAP maintain dominance despite slow innovation and high switching costs?30:45 What drives the success or failure of US brands expanding into competitive markets like China?35:34 Should investors prioritize high growth sectors like AI or take a diversified approach?---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/playlists 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.

"Sometimes, life breaks you down to build you back stronger."We sit down with Sylvia Chan, a remarkable woman who turned her darkest moments into a mission to inspire and empower others. From navigating a public divorce and professional setbacks to building a thriving travel content channel and coaching business, Sylvia’s journey is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the power of community.What to expect:- How Sylvia transformed her pain into purpose after hitting rock bottom.- The surprising lessons she learned from working with over 15 coaches (yes, 15!).- Why she believes in the power of *abundance, collaboration, and community* for business growth.- Her candid take on side hustles: Should they be profitable or just for fun?- The importance of finding your tribe and building a support system that lifts you up."It’s not about how many times you fall—it’s about how you rise, rebuild, and thrive."Whether you’re a jaded corporate professional, an aspiring entrepreneur, or someone searching for meaning in life’s chaos, Sylvia’s story will inspire you to take that leap of faith and create the life you deserve.Available on all major podcast platforms. Don’t miss it!00:00 Intro01:53 How did you grow something part-time into something so big?07:23 How did you find guidance during your transition?11:04 How do I know if a coach is good?14:50 What’s the price range for coaches?16:09 What’s the key to choosing a profitable hustle?21:55 What inspired you to make a community for people to launch their side hustle?27:11 What would be your best advice for people who don't have time to start a side hustle?35:52 Summary---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.

The world is changing fast, and Asia’s biggest economies—China, India, and Japan—are at the center of it all. But what does this mean for Singaporeans? Should businesses still bet on China? Is India really the next manufacturing giant? And why is Japan still a powerhouse despite its slow growth?We explore the rising economic influence of Asia's power trio - China, India, and Japan - with our special guest Jamus Jerome Lim, Associate Professor of Economics, ESSEC Business School and Member of Parliament for Sengkang GRC.He’s here to break down the biggest economic trends shaping Asia today and what YOU need to know.- China’s risky economic policies—Is it still the golden land for businesses?- India’s untapped potential—Big opportunities, but at what cost?- Japan’s quiet strength—Why it’s still a major player in Asia’s economy.- And most importantly, how should Singaporeans position themselves in this new economic landscape?Whether you're interested in regional expansion, career opportunities, or understanding macro trends that will shape the future, this episode offers valuable perspectives from both academic and policy angles.Don't miss this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Asia's economic powerhouses and what their evolution means for Singapore and the region.---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/playlists 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 your business ambitions outgrowing Singapore's shores? You're not alone. In our latest episode, we dive deep into the challenges and opportunities facing Singaporean SMEs looking to expand regionally.Join our host Reggie as he discusses with industry experts:- Jolin Nguyen, Managing Director of AYP Group, specialising in helping companies expand across 14 Asia-Pacific countries- Debbie Yong, Founder, Atypical Media, former journalist and brand strategist who's covered Singapore's F&B and retail scene for over a decade, and- Mr. Ang Yuit, President of ASME (Association of Small Medium Enterprises)We'll explore:- Why many SMEs struggle to move beyond "zero to one" thinking- Surprising insights about regional expansion costs vs Singapore- How some businesses are successfully scaling through strategic partnerships- The truth about government support schemes—what's working and what's notDiscover why internationalisation might be easier (and harder) than you think.Tune in now to learn how Singaporean SMEs can truly compete in the regional market!Drop your questions below! Which Budget 2025 initiative are you most excited about for taking your business global?Available on all podcast platforms. Drop your hot takes after listeningAlso, ask us anything today! and best questions will be selected to be personally answered by our expert network! Send us your questions here: https://www.thefinancialcoconut.com/ask-us05:09 What challenges do businesses face when trying to scale?06:12 What stands out in this year’s budget for businesses?14:38 Can you share examples of businesses expanding successfully?24:08 Should SMEs take a different approach when entering new markets?35:20 What’s your top advice for SMEs going international?---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.