The NCMP role gives opposition candidates who narrowly lost a second chance to enter Parliament. But with a $2,063 monthly allowance and limited voting rights, is it fair to expect them to accept it? In this episode of the DollarsAndSense Podcast, we unpack the origins of the NCMP scheme, how it's evolved, and why taking on the role is not just a political decision but a deeply personal one. We also explore how NCMPs can shape future elections, and why the choice to accept or reject the role isn't as straightforward as it seems.

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Can most Singaporeans really afford to retire between 40 to 60?

In this episode of DollarsAndSense podcast recorded at InsureXpo 2025, CIMB’s Raymond Tan breaks down what Singaporeans believe about retirement and the financial reality behind those dreams. From rising living costs and CPF choices to FIRE aspirations and healthcare inflation, this episode explores whether early retirement is achievable or just wishful thinking.

🎧 Whether you’re in your 20s just starting out or in your 40s feeling the pressure, this episode is packed with insights on what it really takes to retire well in Singapore.

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#SingaporeRetirement #CIMB #FIREmovement #CPF #RetirementPlanning #DollarsAndSense #FinancialIndependence

Is FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) realistic in Singapore?
With high property prices, rising living costs, and sandwich generation pressures, it seems like a distant dream for many. But is it really?

In this episode of DollarsAndSense podcast recorded at InsureXpo 2025, we speak with Dawn, better known as SGBudgetBabe, to unpack the realities of achieving FIRE in Singapore. She shares why it's not just about investing aggressively, but also managing lifestyle expectations, understanding CPF, and using "the system" to your advantage.

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Is your insurance plan really serving your life stage — or draining your wallet? In this episode of DollarsAndSense podcast recorded at InsureXpo 2025, Helen Shen, Group Head of Products at Singlife, joins us to unpack what "the right insurance at the right time" really means.

We talk misconceptions, affordability myths, how healthcare inflation is reshaping coverage, and the biggest mistakes young families and retirees make with their insurance plans. Whether you're just entering the workforce, starting a family, or planning your retirement, this is the insurance masterclass you didn’t know you needed.

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After Trump’s surprise trade tariffs sent global markets into turmoil, many rushed to “buy the dip” — but is that really the smart move? In this episode, we speak to Mr. Loo Cheng Chuan, founder of the 1M65 movement, on how he reads market crashes, why most investors fail at DCA, and what he’s doing this time amid the volatility.

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Curry puffs and chicken wings aren’t just snacks — they’re tracking inflation. In this DollarsAndSense podcast episode, we break down Singapore’s rising cost of living using a unique and surprisingly accurate gauge: the Old Chang Kee Index.

From 2006 to 2025, prices of OCK snacks have more than doubled — and that mirrors the inflation many of us feel every day. We explore how everyday staples like kopi, economic bee hoon, and even football pitch rentals reflect broader economic trends, why the official CPI might feel disconnected from real life, and why some costs (like mobile data) are actually falling.

🔗 Read more about The Old Chang Kee Index here:
https://dollarsandsense.sg/the-old-chang-kee-index-can-curry-puffs-chicken-wings-be-used-to-track-inflation-in-singapore/

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Most Singaporeans focus on investing and saving, but estate planning is often overlooked. Without a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) or a will, your assets and decision-making power may not be handled the way you intend.

In this episode of the DollarsAndSense Podcast, we speak with Tan Check How, Director at iFAST Global Trust, about why these legal documents are crucial. Learn how an LPA ensures your affairs are managed if you lose mental capacity and how a will secures your assets for your loved ones.

We also discuss real-life cases where having—or not having—these documents made a significant difference for families. Don't leave your financial future to chance. Watch now to understand how to safeguard your wealth.

In this episode of our DollarsAndSense Podcast Heritage Series, we uncover how the Securities Investors Association of Singapore (SIAS) became the champion for minority shareholders. Join us as we speak with David Gerald, founder and CEO of SIAS, about the 1999 Clob saga, where 172,000 Singapore investors had their Malaysian stocks frozen, and how SIAS fought against unfair deals to protect retail investors.

Drawing on the profound insights from SIAS’s acclaimed book, Boardroom Knockout, which served as the foundation for much of our discussion, we delve into the gripping story behind SIAS’s book, "Boardroom Knockout: How Singapore’s Investor Watchdog Fights for Minority Investors". This book reveals the intense world of shareholder activism where battles are often fought in the boardroom. Through remarkable real-life examples, such as the China Aviation Oil scandal, the Hyflux crisis, and the Lehman Brothers minibond fallout, readers gain an insider’s perspective on how SIAS confronted some of Singapore’s most challenging corporate battles.

If you’re passionate about corporate governance and the defense of minority investors, be sure to grab a copy of "Boardroom Knockout" at https://bit.ly/4ifahUs. 

#SIAS #SingaporeStocks #Investing #StockMarket #MinorityShareholders #ClobSaga #DavidGerald #Podcast #OurHeritage #StockTrading #FinancialHistory

Singapore Budget 2025 has introduced several major policy changes that will impact families, businesses, and workers. In this episode of the DollarsAndSense Podcast, Dinesh and Timothy break down the biggest game-changers you may have missed.

🔹 $6.4B Budget Surplus – What does this unexpected surplus mean for future government spending?

🔹 Large Family Scheme – Families with 3+ kids receive $10K CDA grants, $5K Medisave top-ups, and $1K/year (ages 1-6) in LifeSG credits.

🔹Corporate Tax Rebate – Businesses get a 50% rebate, capped at $40K, plus a $2K cash grant for those without profits.


🔹 SkillsFuture & Workfare Enhancements – Low-wage workers (30-39 y/o) can now get 50% salary support (up to $3K/month) for diploma courses.

🔹Support for Vulnerable Workers – CPF top-ups and hiring incentives for seniors, PWDs, and ex-offenders to boost employment opportunities.

🔹LifeSG Credits Expansion – Families with kids under 12 get $500 in credits, teenagers (13-20 y/o) get $400 EduSave top-ups.


How will these changes affect you? Watch the full breakdown and share your thoughts in the comments!

🔗 Read our full coverage of Budget 2025 here:
https://dollarsandsense.sg/live-updates-singapore-budget-2025-live-coverage-real-time-commentary/

https://dollarsandsense.sg/singapore-budget-2025-5-major-announcements-that-will-benefit-the-average-singaporean/

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#SingaporeBudget2025 #DollarsAndSense #SGFinance #GameChangers

The rise of AI is fueling unprecedented demand for semiconductor chips, with companies like NVIDIA and AMD at the forefront. But what does this mean for investors?

In this episode of the Dollars and Sense Podcast, recorded at FSM Invest Expo 2025, we dive deep into the semiconductor industry with Tan De Jun, Portfolio Manager at iFAST Singapore.



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