The Financial Coconut Podcast

Interest rates dropping? Markets volatile? Where do savvy investors park their cash now?Join host Reggie for a power-packed episode where we reveal:- Why private credit is becoming a go-to for investors seeking yield- How the Australian property market remains resilient despite global uncertainty- What makes real estate-backed loans a safer bet — and how you can get involved with as little as $1,000- Behind-the-scenes insights on risk management, underwriting, and why liquidity isn’t always kingWe’re diving deep into PRIVATE CREDIT – Wall Street’s best-kept income secret – with exclusive insights from:- Quah Kay Beng, CEO & Founder, BigFundr, a Singapore-based platform making real estate-backed private debt accessible to everyday investors- Meelan Gurung, Senior Director, Aspial Corporation, bringing deep expertise in real estate debt strategies- Craig Schloeffel, Head of HMC Private Credit, managing over $2 billion in private credit across Australia’s commercial real estate sectorYou’ll discover:- The shocking "1 million homes shortage" fueling Aussie property- How to tap 8-10% yields while banks pay peanuts- Real risk vs. reward decoded (no jargon!)Don’t miss this crash course in turning market chaos into cashflow!Sneak Peek: Craig reveals: "Developers are ditching banks over the ‘slow no’... and private lenders are stepping in FAST." Meelan Gurung: "My wife’s money’s in this – I don’t mess it up!”03:20 - What’s going on in the credit and bond markets right now?07:45 - What’s your take on recent fund flows in the credit markets?12:05 - What’s the house view on how individuals should assess private credit?22:49 - What’s a fair risk premium in the private credit space?26:24 - What’s driving Australian property prices to cross the $1 million mark?29:42 - How do you assess who to lend to, and what risk structures exist at the developer and builder levels?32:37 - Why should investors pay that 2% fee—what value or work justifies it?37:24 - Where does private credit fit in an average investor’s portfolio?40:26 - BigFundr.com40:39 - TFC Promo Code (valid from 10 July 2025 to 31 July 2025, T&C 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[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.

Ever wondered how a 21-year-old turned doodles into a $100,000 sticker empire —and landed their product in the hands of a K-pop sensation? Buckle up, because this week’s guest is rewriting the rules of small business.Meet Dylan Chia, Founder of dchtoons, a self-taught artist who went from printing stickers in his bedroom to supplying wholesale orders to K-pop events and viral fame. His secret weapon wasn’t just cute designs—it was a 365-day content challenge that catapulted him into the spotlight.Learn from this episode:- How one random K-pop fan sparked a chain reaction that changed his business forever- The pricing hack that 20X purchases (without customers batting an eye)- Why booth markets and customer feedback became his unlikely mentors- The surprising truth about selling directly vs. marketplaces like Shopee—and why he refuses to list thereDon’t miss Dylan’s journey and why he almost opened a mall shop at 21. This is the ultimate underdog story for creators, side-hustlers, and anyone who believes small ideas can spark big revolutions.Ready to learn how a hobby became a full-blown business? Tune in 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-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.

Deadlines, generational divides, team conflicts, communication breakdowns—Are you a manager feeling the pressure?We’re tackling real-life leadership challenges submitted by YOU — our amazing listeners.In this episode:- Practical strategies for managing conflicts and collaboration across age groups- How to handle communication breakdowns in fast-paced teams- The reality of burnout and how managers can regain control- The honest truth about "overachieving"—and when it might hurt more than help- Navigating tough conversations (and why technology might be your new best friend!)Meet our expert panel:- Susan Chen: Fractional CHRO, and author of ‘The Death of Best Practices’—here to challenge the status quo of management- Nicole Lee: Ex-banker turned FinTech consultant, host of ‘You Never Know’ podcast, and a coach passionate about transparency and growthPlus: Our co-hosts Dawn (aka SG Budget Babe) and Alex Loh (growth mindset coach) share their own stories of career transformation and management mishaps.Tune in for candid conversations, honest advice, and a few laughs—because being a manager isn’t easy, but you don’t have to do it alone.Don’t miss it! Hit subscribe and send in your own burning questions for a chance to be featured on future ‘Manage Who’ episodes.---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 if you could retire decades earlier without a CEO’s salary? Meet Alex Lee—former insurance regulator, ex-CFO, and Chief Actuary— he’s the brains behind some of the most critical financial models in healthcare and insurance, and now, he’s spilling the tea on how he retired early without sacrificing security or happiness. He reveals:- The "F-You Money" Mindset: How living below his means gave him the courage to speak truth to power (and why it accelerated his career)- Insurance Secrets You’ve Never Heard: Why he SKIPS critical illness coverage (and what he buys instead)- The Real Cost of "Upgrading" Your Life: Why he still lives in an HDB flat despite peers flipping condos- Retirement Reimagined: His 3-phase "Plan A, B, C" strategy for working only on his termsThis episode pulls no punches: from calling out industry whistleblowing to explaining why "whole life insurance is a scam." Whether you’re dreaming of retiring early, curious about actuarial science, or just trying to live a smarter financial life, this conversation will give you serious food for thought.Get ready for radical honesty, actuarial math, and actionable strategies to build freedom—without the fluff.---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.

Ever wondered how your brand could crack the lucrative markets right on Singapore's doorstep? Or what Malaysian franchises know about scaling that we don't?We pull back the curtain on the real franchising game between Singapore and Malaysia. We’re joined by a true industry heavyweight: Deric Yeo, Secretary General of the Malaysian Franchise Association. With decades of experience launching brands like Manhattan Fish Market across 15+ countries, Derek’s insights are pure gold for any entrepreneur eyeing regional growth.A sneak peek of what you’ll discover:- Why Singaporean brands are getting it wrong (and right) in Malaysia —hint: It’s not about copying your business model- Emerging markets in Sabah/Sarawak and Halal opportunities- Real-world examples: US Pizza and education brands- Logistics challenges and "test-market" franchising modelsWhether you’re a franchise newbie or a seasoned operator, this episode is your roadmap to navigating two of ASEAN’s most dynamic markets."If you think Malaysia’s just a smaller Singapore, you’re already behind. The rules have changed—and the winners are those who adapt, not replicate.”---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 considered leaving the stability of a multinational corporation (MNC) for the dynamic, fast-paced world of a small-to-medium enterprise (SME)? What if we told you that the leap could come with a pay cut, more responsibility, and a completely different company culture?We dive into the real, raw stories behind professionals who’ve made the switch — and what they wish they knew before taking the plunge.Meet Our Guest:- Doreen Heng, Finance Head, Toh Thye San Farm; ex-MNC finance professional turned growth driver in an SME, shares her 8-year journey — from negotiating a major pay cut to leading transformation projects and helping scale a family-run business into a structured, growing entity.- Plus, insights from our host and mindset coach Alex Loh, who breaks down the psychology of SME bosses and why they’re on the hunt for top-tier MNC talentWhat You’ll Discover:- The real trade-offs (yes, including pay cuts!) and unexpected rewards- How to negotiate your worth and grow beyond your role- The cultural shifts no one warns you about—hierarchy, flexibility, and "family-style" workplaces- Why impact in an SME can outstrip corporate achievements- The one question you should ask yourself before even thinking about the switch- And the truth about SME culture — is it really all about family, or is there a hidden risk?Is the grass greener? Tune in to find out!Plus, we dive into the boss’s mindset: What SME leaders really think when hiring ex-MNC talent.---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 wiseDisclaimer: 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’s brewing in China’s $46 billion beverage market?From explosive IPOs to cutthroat competition, three giants are rewriting the rules of global F&B dominance. Are they sustainable growth stories or hype-fueled bubbles?Tune in as we decode:- How these brands scale thousands of stores faster than Starbucks while staying profitable?- Tech vs. Tradition: Why your next coffee order might be shaped by AI-driven loyalty apps—and how one company’s data game could outpace Domino’s- Global Ambitions: Can “affordable luxury” tea and $1 ice cream conquer Southeast Asia? We dissect their playbook for world domination- Investor Red Flags: Are margins a mirage? We reveal which brand’s strategy could backfire—and why chasing trends might sink even the hottest IPOsMeet the Experts:- Lee Kok How, Economist, Managing Partner AORA Group, who spills insights from his deep dives into China’s private education sector and viral business models- Willie Keng, Founder of DividendTitan, breaks down dividend stocks, supply chain wars, and why sugar (yes, sugar) might be the ultimate moatWhy listen? Whether you’re a caffeine addict, a franchise hopeful, or a China bull, this episode will change how you see the next Starbucks—or maybe the next MixueIs this the golden era of Chinese drinks—or the calm before the storm? Tune in to find out!#Investing #ChinaTech #BeverageWars #Podcast #Mixue #Luckin #Chagee---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.

In this electrifying episode, Reggie pulls back the curtain on an anonymous internet sensation who turned curiosity into a multi-million-view media empire—all while hiding behind a literal green chair.You’ll discover:- The radical privacy strategy that helped his brand scale beyond his identity- How he monetised accidentally viral content—starting with just $500- Behind-the-scenes of cracking the code for high-conversion videos (without traditional ads!)- Why he’s expanding into Indonesia—and why he calls media "the worst business in town"Meet Koocester, an ex-food delivery rider who now commands $7k per video, collaborates with ministries and luxury brands, and built a 12-person team… all while staying faceless. Is anonymity his superpower? Or his biggest risk?Don’t miss this mind-bending conversation about attention, authenticity, and the business of staying invisible.Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.---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 dive into the AI revolution with a provocative guest who’s shaking up conversations about automation, economics, and survival in the age of humanoids. In this eye-opening episode, they unpack:- The hidden crisis for professionals: Why your career might be on borrowed time.- Shocking stats about graduates and layoffs – and what it means for YOUR family.- Bitcoin, burritos, and broken systems: One guest’s controversial take on fighting inflation.- Japan’s robot revolution vs. Singapore’s automation gamble: Who’s winning?- Soft skills vs. silicon: What humans can still do better than AI (for now).Guest:- Jeremy – Growth mindset coach, election candidate, and automation policy advocate. He ran on platforms addressing AI disruption, Bitcoin ETFs, and economic resilience. Advised businesses on automation trade-offs and workforce transformation, and challenged ministries, universities, and listeners to rethink everything.Don’t miss the debate that left the hosts rattled:“If you think your job is safe… you haven’t met the robots dressing as influencers.”“Your kids’ education is failing them. Here’s what to demand NOW.”Tune in for raw truths, generational survival strategies, and why "bell curve gods" won’t save us. Listen wherever you get podcasts!00:00 Intro02:53 What’s your main advice for working professionals today?14:26 How would you redesign our education system?28:30 How can I raise my kids to handle challenges that will become their everyday reality?38:44 What interpersonal skill will disappear soonest? Which will endure?40:28 What stood out to you in this conversation?---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.