The Financial Coconut Podcast

"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.

We debate if current income ceilings make sense anymore and share some controversial thoughts on Singapore Budget 2025.Joining us is:- Professor Sumit Agarwal from NUS Business School, author of the popular Kiasunomics series. He brings 25 years of mortgage expertise to the table!- Kuanyu Tan, [99.co](http://99.co/) CEO sharing his fresh perspective as a first-time homebuyer navigating the system.- David Baey, CEO of Mortgage Master, an Industry veteran who's been in mortgages for 15 years.We'll be unpacking:- Why this year's budget had surprisingly little on housing- The impact of 20,000 new BTOs coming to market- Whether HDBs should really be viewed as lottery tickets- What's really driving property price increases across SingaporeIt's a no-holds-barred discussion full of laughs, real talk and unique perspectives you won't hear anywhere else. Tune in now to get the inside scoop on Singapore's property market!Available on all podcast platforms. Drop your hot takes after listening.Also, 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-us00:00 - Introduction03:14 - Given the budget’s limited focus on housing, are current policies sufficient to ensure affordability?08:09 - How will the budget impact first-time buyers, homeowners, and property investors?17:22 - How does the BTO system impact life decisions, and how should its profit mechanics be managed for affordability?24:56 - How are current property market trends and mortgage rates evolving, given global interest rate influences?30:26 - How do you see long-term interest rates evolving, and what impact will they have on homeowners and the housing market?---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.

Singapore Budget 2025 continues to recognise that a topic that's top of mind for many Singaporeans - retirement planning and what it really means to retire well in Singapore today.Our panel of experts:- Daphne Lye, Financial Planning Solutions Lead at MoneyOwl- Dr Chong Poh Heng MD, HCA Hospice, who brings over 35 years of experience in end-of-life care- Ashok Samuel, Ex GIC Head of Private Equity Risk with 30 years in private equity experience, now retiree in his late 50s, offers a personal perspective on the realities of retiring in Singapore and the wisdom he’s gained along the wayEpisode highlights:- Why traditional notions of retirement feel uninspiring to many millennials- The evolving landscape of retirement planning beyond just CPF Life and insurance schemes- How to balance living well now while preparing for future healthcare needs- And some candid conversations about end-of-life planning that you won't hear anywhere else03:59 What does hospice care actually involve?05:56 What advice comes from those near the end of life?09:51 How well do current retirement schemes support Singaporeans?12:17 How can retirees manage rising healthcare costs?18:29 How does Singapore compare to other retirement destinations?21:03 How much should Singaporeans save for retirement?29:28 What factors make retirees relocate from Singapore?From financial strategies to emotional considerations, we cover the practical realities of retiring in Singapore today while challenging conventional thinking.This is one conversation about retirement you don't want to miss. Tune in now to get inspired and empowered to rethink your own retirement journey!Available on all podcast platforms. Drop your hot takes after listening.Also, 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-us---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 about how Singapore budget 2025 impacts small businesses?Join us and guests as we tackle crucial questions: How can SMEs maximise CDC vouchers? What's the real impact of grants and subsidies? And what innovative strategies are businesses using to attract both Gen Z talent and senior workers?Hasan Abdul Rahman, Managing Director or Pondok Abang, sharing insights from the F&B industryCeline Ng, Creative Director Fraction Design Pte. Ltd, discussing sustainable event solutionsJunyi Lee, Creative Builder of Cammunity x Gram Videos, offering perspectives on creative media productionOur panel also explore internationalization efforts, digital transformation, and manpower challenges facing today's entrepreneurs.Want to know how successful businesses are navigating these complex issues? Tune in for an engaging discussion full of practical insights and forward-looking strategies that could transform your business approachAvailable on all podcast platforms. Drop your hot takes after listening.Also, 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-us06:12 What are your thoughts on the latest national budget from an SME business owner’s perspective?07:55 How have CDC vouchers affected consumer behavior and business revenue in your industry? 17:42 How have government grants, such as MRA, helped SMEs expand and improve productivity?21:54 What are the key challenges SMEs face in international expansion?28:00 How do you balance hiring local talent, automation, and outsourcing to improve SME productivity34:00 What advice do you have for SMEs navigating grants, government support, and economic uncertainties?---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.

Singapore Budget 2025 continues to see SkillsFuture as an anchor policy in the nations transition. Join us as we dive deep into the realities of Singapore’s job market, retrenchments, and whether the government’s policies are truly bridging the gap for workers in crisis.Reggie (a.k.a. The Financial Coconut) is joined by:- Adrian Tan, Author - “No More Bosses", Fractional CMO, sharing insights on self-employment and the gig economy.- Kai Ning Lim, Co-founder & CEO of The Courage Chapter, a platform that helps senior professionals transition to their second chapters through meaningful flexible projects with companies, for greater business impact.- Puay Lim Yeo, Partner, Talentkraft, and former business leader at Glint, offering a fresh perspective on career transitions and workforce challenges.Key points teased:- SkillsFuture Under the Microscope: Is it promoting lifelong learning or just a buzzword?- Retrenchment Realities: How are middle managers and professionals coping in a shaky job market?- Career Conversion Programs: Do they actually help people switch industries, or are they just a temporary fix?- The SME Lifeline: Why small businesses might be the unexpected heroes in hiring returnees and older workers.- AI vs. Humans: Is the rise of artificial intelligence making traditional jobs obsolete?From heated debates about government grants to raw stories of career pivots, this episode is packed with unfiltered insights and actionable advice for anyone navigating Singapore’s ever-changing job landscape.00:00 Intro02:21 What key takeaways on employment did you get from the budget?11:26 Does the SkillsFuture system need improvement?13:44 How can we improve career conversion programs?22:29 Thoughts on career conversion programs and how effective is it?30:45 Is Singapore’s job market strategy too broad?Don’t miss out—whether you’re a job seeker, employer, or just curious about the future of work in Singapore. Hit subscribe and tune in to this must-listen conversation."The job market is tough, but understanding it doesn’t have to be."Available on all podcast platforms.Also, 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-us---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.

Is the 2025 Singapore Budget a lifeline for families, a gamble on nuclear energy, or a wake-up call for Singapore’s workforce? Tune in as we unpack the hidden layers of this year’s fiscal blueprint—no jargon, just real talk.Join host Reggie (aka Chief Financial Coconut) and guests:Anthony, co-host of TFC Market Updates, and Energy Infrastructure LawyerSher-li Torrey, Founder of Mums@Work Singapore, championing women’s rights and caregiver strugglesImran Johri, Marketing Director at BigFundr, dissecting investment trends and economic realitiesEpisode highlight:AI vs. Ageism: Can reskilling save mid-career workers, or is it just lip service?Cash or Community? The CDC voucher debate—helping households or fueling inflation?Nuclear Power on the Table: Why Singapore’s sudden pivot to atomic energy is raising eyebrows.Caregiver Crisis: New grants for families—are they enough to ease the burnout of “sandwich generation” parents?From heated debates about fiscal prudence to raw stories of balancing kids, careers, and aging parents—this isn’t your typical budget analysis.Don’t miss out—whether you’re a policy wonk, a stressed parent, or just curious where your tax dollars are going. Hit subscribe and join the unfiltered conversation now.Available on all podcast platforms. Drop your hot takes after listening—we dare you. Also, 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-us03:28 - What aspect of the Budget stood out to you in terms of its impact on the economy?12:57 - Do you believe Singapore’s emphasis on energy independence through nuclear power and small modular reactors is a realistic solution?18:55 - Given the government's focus on sectors such as finance, high-end manufacturing, research, and logistics, how should Singaporeans prepare for potential structural shifts in employment?24:50 - Do you think the government's proposed tax incentives for SGX listings will significantly enhance Singapore’s position as a financial hub?29:24 - From your perspective as a parent, were there any family-related policies in the Budget that particularly stood out to you?31:54 - At what point would state spending on families be considered "sufficient," and should the government aim to cover basic needs or enable families to thrive?40:24 - How do you view the adequacy of support provided to caregivers, particularly those balancing childcare and elderly care responsibilities?---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/thefinancialcoconutDisclaimer: 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.

Looking to level up your career in 2025? Join us as we dive deep into the latest job market trends with two heavyweight guests:- John Borneman - Country Manager of Hays Recruitment Singapore- Natasha Wahap, Senior Manager, Employer Branding SAPMENA L'Oréal (South Asia Pacific, Middle East & North Africa)Get insider perspectives from both sides of the hiring table as we explore:- Which industries are actively hiring despite market uncertainties- How the recruitment landscape has evolved in 2025- Game-changing tips to make yourself more discoverable to recruiters- The truth about job applications and what happens behind the scenesPlus, our guests share surprising insights about CV length, salary negotiations, and a creative LinkedIn hack that could expand your network overnight.Unpack these valuable insights to help you position yourself for success in today's job market. Tune in to discover why some traditional career advice might be outdated and what really catches a recruiter's eye in 2025.Whether you're actively job hunting or planning your next career move, this episode is packed with practical strategies you won't want to miss.00:00 Introduction05:29 What skills do you need for change management roles?07:59 How can mid-career professionals switch to change management?10:08 Are there any non-negotiable traits employers want before skills?12:48 What makes a candidate stand out to get headhunted?14:45 How can you make your LinkedIn profile stand out?20:13 Is it better to be a specialist or a generalist?23:03 How do recruiters spot AI-generated resumes and identify real skills?24:50 What’s the best way to negotiate a salary?28:50 Does sharing your salary history hurt salary negotiations?31:40 How do hiring managers decide who gets interviewed?35:38 Is there really a shortage of talent or jobs?---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.