Posts

INCOME WealthLink ILP ETF for lifetime Dividend ?

Dilemma: Local ETF or DBS shares or Traded Endowment ? 1.  When it comes to buying new/resale endowments, INCOME is my preferred first choice. 2. Of course my opinion is that new endowments are no longer attractive, due to lower BI Par Fund illustration at 3% & 4.25%.   Hardly any insurer will pay more than they stated in their BI; especially if it is a long maturity runway. 3. For me, I won't consider Unit Trust Fund; especially if bought from bank.  You will have to  Fund switching in your self interest. 4.  Today I happened to speak to INCOME Advisor on above INCOME WealthLink (Investment-Link Policy: ILP) investing in Asia Dynamic Return Fund.  It is a local fund managed by Fullerton Fund, incepted since 11 Jan 22 at Par Fund $1/unit.  Now it is trading at $0.81/unit. 5.  Lol.  Since inception, it has lost 11%.   Fullerton is HQ in Singapore, regulated by MAS. Maybe we can buy at low for now?  lol. My opinion only: I would sure avoid old & mature Fund. In this case, th

Good Wife is True Key to Happiness ?

Happy Sonday. Someone shared this picture with me. "A Good Wife is Key to True Happiness" I thought that it is not really correct. ~~~   Good wife will slog very hard; and aged very much for the sake of the family. Happy Wife is better.  A Happy & Good Wife is Best. Whether Wife is Good, or Happy, one can maybe gauge on her inner body age.... and frequent smile on her face. ~~~~ Another wise said: When my wife is happy, I am happy. And when my wife is very happy, I am also very happy. Blessed Sunday.❤️🙏

My 11th to 14th Resale Endowments

My 11th & 12th Resale Endowments (INCOME X 2) 1. Yesterday I received the official e-Letter of notification of takeover of the two Wholelife policies. So I proceeded to pay up the $42,670 for initial premiums of two INCOME Wholelife Policies bought under Resale Endowments.    This completes the Resale Transitions. As easy that that. The two policies are seen on my MYINCOME Portal online. My next 13th & 14th Resale Endowments 2. TI13 (from GE) Premium: $23,820. Irr: 4.8% Lifetime payout --> $1,000 p.a. x 26 + $28,225 upon maturity payout at Year-26) At Year-26, I would be 60yo + 26 = 86yo. I have reserved my 13th policies which is to pay $1,000 p.a. for my wholelife from Year-0. 3. TI14 (GE) I just reserved this TI14 yesterday. Also from GE. Irr: 4.8% Premium: $18,470 + $1,900 × 6 = $29,870 Lifetime payout (from Year-6 at age 66) --> $1,600 p.a. x 25 + $40,76 upon maturity payout at 2055, at my age 85) 4. TI13 is better as I start collect at Year-0 at age 60 this year.

New Endowment can buy ? No

Manulife Income-Secure -  DBS agent quoted me the above Manulife policy yesterday. In short (Pay 5, Collect 60 @60yo) Pay $10k x 5 (Less Yr1 bonus $800). Projected lifetime payout: $1,000 p.a. for 60 years, from Year-3; based on the BI 4.25% Par Fund Performance. My Comment: 1. For me, this fixed income policy really cannot buy. Compare with CPF OA 2.5% (Reference#1) 2. Putting into OA @2.5%, risk free, capital guaranteed, $50,000×0.025 = *$1,250* p.a. In fact, it won't be attractive for anyone above age 55 who already can withdraw from OA interest. 3. I got back to her that we don't need to meet. Besides the BI at 100yo: At 4.25%, return is 2.84% p.a. At 3%, return is 1.87% p.a. Compare with DBS Stock (Ref#2) 4. lol. If I put into DBS $50k shares, I will have dividend $2k p.a. easily. Compare with (T-bills & banks interest rate)(Ref#3) For short term which these money market is still good, invest in them first. ~~~ My takeaway 1. Tradition new endowment market is not so b

Risk free T-bills, why not invest ?

Risk-free T-bills SGS T-bills have been around for many years. It only caught much attention due to recent high T-bill interest rate. For those who can afford to put-aside some money in T-bills, it is a useful avenue to get coffee money which is risk-free. The interest earned can also be used to pay utility bills or even pocket money for our school-going children. Example, 6-mth T-bill interest can fund our monthly expenses: $50,000 @3.7% = 50,000×0.037÷2÷6 = $150 p.m.  $100,000 @3.7% = 100,000×0.037÷2÷6 = $300 p.m. My takeaway Whatever it takes, make effort to invest.

Wonder why Resale Endowments can pay 4%~5%? Explain.

1. Have you ever asked why Resale Endowments are able to give lifetime payout risk-free 4.1%? 2. What is the catch and where does the returns come from? My reply: 1.  Insurers can also pay because their biz model comes from getting customers invest in them.   2. Recently the policies Benefit Illustration was made to reduce their return projection, these insurers have to keep innovating to draw customers, in a small local market. 3. That's why we have to be careful which insurers we invest in, their fees n costs overhead. Ultimately can they keep delivering? 4. While they guarantee annual cashbacks, they will likely cut in their maturity payout. As an illustration Actually the original policy pays 3.+%, but because it was re-sold at a discount to us, our premiums were lower & discounted. This allows us to now enjoy higher irr 4.+% ~ 5%, though the policy remaining terms and payouts are unchanged at 3.+%.   That's the mechanism and benefits of Resale Insurance. ~~~ My takeaw

My new "Cash Critical Illness" coverage

 1. Today I signed to takeover the 2 resale insurance; mainly TI11 & TI12. 2. At INCOME Branch, I tallied and confirmed the Policies Cash Values are as sold to me. 3. Interestingly, both policies are not endowments, but someone's wholelife policies, They started at their ages 13 & 21 on 2005 & 2006 respectively. 4. It was the first time buying someone's wholelife policies.   The irony: I surrendered both my PrudLink and Manulife Estate Protector policies as my own CI will expire by my age 63 in a few years' time.  Yet now, I buy someone's much younger wholelife policies which have breakeven.  I buy their wholelife which have Cash Values to form my Cash CI which covers me from now  and beyond. 5.  Both policies have guaranteed surrendered value upon maturity payout in 8~9years (Xirr: 5%) 6. In 2032/33, age 67/68, Total premiums paid $55.2k, Total combined guaranteed maturity payout = $81.7k. (XIRR =5%.) 7. While it was guaranteed upto my age 67/68, they are

Buy ETF or buy its top components?

  Building a stock portfolio 1. Know your risk tolerance. 2. Adequate industrial diversification 3. Don't put all your eggs in one region 4. Each portfolio size 5. Monitor & Review I wonder if this writer is old-fashioned way of stock investment ?  But I agree that "not to put all eggs in one basket". 1.  What stocks make up STI? Top-5 largest components of the ST: 1. DBS (20.2% weightage) 2. OCBC (11.8% weightage) 3. UOB (11.6% weightage) 4. Singtel (6.2% weightage) 5. Jardin Matheson (4.6%) makes up 60% of STI. These companies pay most of dividends. Why then bother to buy other stocks ? When these stock prices rise, so will the Index. 2. What stocks made up S&P 500 ? Top 8 largest companies of S&P 500 that made up 30% of market capitalization. 1. Apple, 2. Microsoft, 3. Amazon.com, 4. Nvidia, 5. Alphabet 6. Meta Platforms 7. Tesla 8. Berkshire Why then bother to buy other stocks ?  ~~~ Talking of diversification, most of us put 100% of our assets into SG bas

Endowment. No way. But why ?

Pay5, Wait5, Payout5 This is my first 15-year $100k endowment bought from GE in 2011.  It was my first venture into buying 21 endowments journey.... And I am still buying more. Lol. I heard from my agent that many queue at GE Centre @Pickering St to complain after GE declare their policies payouts cut !!   It suffered a cut in maturity payout from $29,100 to $20,320 at Year-15 maturity year. ~~~ Year-11 to Year-14 (Guaranteed payout) Year-11 to Year-14 is guaranteed at $29,100 annually from 2021 to 2024. My 4th payout is this 7th Mar 2024, guaranteed at $29,100. Year-15 in 2025 Even with the maturity payout cut/revised from $29,100 to $20,320. ~~~ XIRR downs It's effective XIRR drops from 3.77% to 3.16% p.a. annualized return. Effect :  Still beat OA 2.5% p.a. ~~~~~ Paradox of buying endowment/annuity 1. I know how to invest. I would not invest in endowment. I sure can make. 2 Don't trust Endowments. The payouts are not guaranteed. 3. Endowments payout yield will not be eve

Is CPFLife new ERS payout $3,300 p.m. really enough ?

 One wise shared that: At $3,300 pm per pax, it can be a comfortable income floor for a retiree couple. I wonder if $3,300 p.m. per pax really comfortable ? This $3,300 p.m. per pax will certainly not be even enough to cover Caregiver or Nursing home in 15-years' time for one, excluding inflation. NURSING HOME COST Current Nursing home cost is about $4k to $5k p.m. per pax. In 15~20 years' time, we will add to our children or society burden. WE WILL STILL NOT LAST SANDWICHED GENERATION  Sadly we can never be the last Sandwiched Generation ! ~~~~ Some takeaway: 1. Take good care of our health; physical & mental. 2.  Beef up on our children financial firepower to help  our "future dependency" on them. 3.  Bond & love our loved ones so that their Caregiving would be "sweeter". 4. Retirement expense is not just daily cost. Our most expensive cost maybe our Caregiving home cost from age 75 to 90; any shorter is a blessing. Our RA payout buffers $3k p.m.,

8 x 3 pointers to wealth, health & longevity

 There are eight health areas to be cared for: 1. Leg: Knee cap pain, bow legged 2. Hearing loss 3. Sights impairment 4. Mental capacity degradation 5. Hair loss/white 6. Dental health (Front teeth loss) 7. 3 fiends (cholesterol, diabetes, High BP) 8. Better your body age ~~~~~ There are eight wealth areas to build up: 1. Max up CPF-Life lifetime payout 2. Fully paid Home  3. Passive Income 4. Annuities 5. Critical Illness Insurance protection 6. Hospital & Surgical (H&S) protection 7. Children & your retirement Plan B 8. Pure Gold ~~~~ There are eight retirement pastimes to build up Blue-Zone lifestyle: 1. Frequent walks 2. Community community care and eat together 3. Traditions n Religion; faith n hope 4. Right Tribe with healthy habits and behaviors. 5. Regular plant based diet; beans, nuts, veg to improve body immunity 6. Emotional health. At peace, contentment. Something to live for. 7. Stay active; do some gardening 8. Volunteering services

Diligence payoff with CPF-RA topup

 1.  Current BASIC PLAN payout at age 65 My current RA Balance is $371k as at Feb 2024. [Projected Payout at age 65, for ERS Basic Plan: $2,180 p.m.] 2. NEW ERS BASIC PLAN PAYOUT (if cash topup with $117k in 2025) In 2025, with added RA whole year interest and cash topup permitted at $117k, my new RA Balance would slightly exceed $500k. [New Payout at age 65, for ERS BASIC Plan: $2,920 p.m.). (4 more years runway to age 65). 3. Calculator error beyond $500k But don't trust the CPFLife Estimator for $500k RA Balance at delay payout to age 70. Salivating if new payout is $3,890 p.m. !! (I might have to input as one year younger to calculate Delayed Payout at age 70). ~~~ 4. So far, I have topup RA (at ERS) with: Age 55: $88k (in 2019) Age 56: $7.5k (in 2020) Age 57: $7.5k (in 2021) Age 58: $10.5k (in 2022) Age 59: $10.5k (in 2023) Age 60: $10.5k (in 2024) Total: $134,500 (excluding additional annual MA cash topup to its yearly BHS). Wow a lot of forced saved money. It can be hear

CPF SA removal upon age 55 news

CPF SA Removal at age 55 news (16th Feb 2024) The Friday announcement of new CPF changes of CPF-SA removal from/at age 55 and its balance is transferred to OA must have caused a stir in the big chat. Those who did their SA hack might be lamenting and even angry with the new SA removal news. Actually the total interest lost may be $50k ? It should not derail one's retirement plan.   On the contrary, the increased RA ERS topup in 2025 would benefit more people.   If I were to topup this $117k next year and subsequent delta topup to its annual ERA, it will add about $3,000 - $2,200 p.m. or $800 p.m. lifetime. This is actually good news for budding retirees... 6 years to age 65. One lesson :  Not easy to outsmart our G. Even if one manages to, just whisper. "makan quietly". Just like the "1-99" loophole in home ownership to skirt around paying ABSD for 2nd pte pty, "makan quietly".

Layered endowments versus CPF VHR approach

Compare XIRR & CAGR Definition: XIRR takes into account the exact timing and amount of each cash flow, making it a more accurate representation of the true returns of a SIP. CAGR , on the other hand, assumes a constant rate of return over the entire investment period, which may not accurately reflect the returns of a SIP. The CAGR measures the return on an investment over a certain period of time. The most important distinction is that the CAGR is straightforward enough that it can be calculated by hand. The main difference between them is that the CAGR is often presented using only the beginning and ending values, whereas the annualized total return is typically calculated using the returns from several years. ~~~~ My dilemma Just sharing my dilemma over nibbling buy to build up layered endowments versus simply VHR (voluntary home refund) into CPF-OA. Each endowment return singly, or bundled collectively can/may give a XIRR higher than 3.5%.   However in my case, the bundles payo

Wee Cho Yaw - about his Luck

This week see the passing of Banking Mogul Mr Wee. I try search for published wisdom words from him.  Managed to read this ST article of him by Goh Eng Yeow reporter. Veteran banker Wee Cho Yaw said that the late former deputy prime minister Goh Keng Swee once told him that it is better to be born lucky than to be smart. It is a sentiment most of us would share with Dr Goh; having luck on our side can help us breeze through life. ~~~~ About Luck : To get lucky, think positive 1. Lucky people create avenue of more luck. Lucky people try hard to add variety to their lives - talking to different people, breaking routines and being open to new experiences. In doing so, they create more "chance opportunities" for themselves to get lucky. 2. Unlucky people miss chance opportunities because they are looking for something else. Lucky people see the chance opportunities and pursue them. 3. Count your blessings Lucky people have a positive attitude, and lead happier lives. 4. With luc

Critical Illness (CI) medical cost in Singapore

This HL Assurance article was dated Sep 2020.  Estimated CI  medical cost in Singapore in 2020. 1.  The  most common types of cancer  for women in Singapore are breast cancer, followed by colorectal cancer and lung cancer. For men, the most common type of cancer is colorectal cancer, followed by lung cancer and then prostate cancer. Risk factors for cancer include family history, obesity, smoking and diet. However, people can still get diagnosed with cancer despite not exhibiting high-risk factors. The  cost of treating cancer  in Singapore has been estimated at about $100,000 to $200,000 a year. 2. Stroke is quite costly to treat, with the  mean direct medical cost of stroke  estimated at about $12,473.70 in Singapore.   3. Heart bypass medical cost. The median cost of heart bypass surgery at public hospitals in Singapore is $8,312 for those in Class B2 wards and $6,046 for those in Class C wards. 4. Heart angioplasty is an expensive procedure, with the subsidised cost of the procedu

Saltwater or Listening better for Oral gargle ?

What are the 3 major portals of entry for disease? a. Inhalation (via the respiratory tract) b. Absorption (via mucous membranes such as the eyes) c.  Ingestion (via the gastrointestinal tract) I no Doctor.  But I try to find out about bacteria entry through the above; termed as ENT channel (Ear, Nose & Throat). 1. Does salt water kill bacteria? Salt water may kill some, but does not kill all, mouth and throat bacteria. However, solutions of salt can help bring bacteria to the surface of the gums, teeth, and throat. Once the bacteria is brought to the surface, some of it washes away when a person spits the salt water out. However, the saltwater gargle was not as effective at reducing bacteria as the alum mouthwash. Alum, which is potassium aluminum sulfate, is an active ingredient in some medicated mouthwashes. Doctors and dentists often recommend saltwater gargles to help alleviate mouth and throat pain. 2. Is it better to gargle with salt water or Listerine? Gargling salt water c

Hearing loss increases dementia risk by 90% !

Something new about Dementia: Protect your hearing. Protect, check and support your hearing 1.  Hearing loss in midlife can increase dementia risk by an average of 90%. 2.  Use hearing aids if needed – they help reduce that risk. Protect your hearing from loud noises. Get your hearing tested. http://alzheimer.ca/en/about-dementia/how-can-i-reduce-risk-dementia/10-ways-reduce-your-risk-dementia

Tinnitus - Serious hearing condition ?

 1. Tinnitus is the medical term for "hearing" noises in your ears. It occurs when there is no outside source of the sounds. Tinnitus is often called "ringing in the ears." 2. Tinnitus is common . Almost everyone notices a mild form of tinnitus once in a while. It usually lasts a few minutes. 3. Can tinnitus go away? Many times, tinnitus can't be cured. But there are treatments that can help make your symptoms less noticeable. Your doctor may suggest using an electronic device to suppress the noise. 4. Untreated earwax buildup can lead to hearing loss , irritation, pain in your ear, dizziness, ringing in your ears and other issues. In most cases, earwax impaction isn’t dangerous and symptoms go away with treatment. Earwax blockage treatments include drops to soften the wax. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14428-ear-wax-buildup--blockage https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/tinnitus https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/patient

17 Habits of self-made millionaires who retire early

17 habits of self-made millionaires who retired early 1. Take stock of own finances 2. Track net worth & spending 3. Frugal 4. Underspend on housing 5. Focus on increasing earnings 6. Earn more, to invest more 7. Create passive income 8. Comfortable living outside comfort zone 9. After retiring, spend even less 10. When they do spend, it's on experiences 11. After retiring, money is not huge motivator 12. Value happiness as living life they love 13. Move to areas with lower cost of living 14. Develop hobbies 15. Like to exercise 16. They travel 17. They are optimistic https://www.businessinsider.sg/self-made-millionaire-early-retirement-habits-2019-12/ Further applications Worldly temporal wealth 1. Track net worth & spending 2. Create and grow passive income 3. Be frugal but spend wisely 4. Value happiness and life over money 5. Retire in areas of lower cost 6. Develop hobbies, exercise and travel 7. Be optimistic True Wealth 1. Know the Giver of your wealth 2. Know your w

PA Senior Silver Passion Card

For those Senior finally hitting 60-yo to apply for new PA Silver Passion Card . Not young anymore... ~~~ When one reaching 60yo, People Association (PA) will send you a TransitLink Application Form for you to apply for Silver Passion Card.  This card will entitle you for cheaper Senior rate for MRT & Bus transportation, Cinema movie, Restaurant buffets & other perks. The New Application Form basically captures your personal particulars. Together with recent hardcopy or e-Passport size photo,  we can either to TransitIink Ticketing Booth to apply or register @SimplyGo website to submit application, as stated in the Form QR Code. SimplyGo - Poor UI !! And I need to download app from PlayStore !! This form looks real, not scam.  However this SimplyGo web site will lead us to a "wild-goose chase" to register.   Poor UI (User Interface) and not helpful at all. Sometimes it is a worrying trend.  With so much scams going on, and we still subject to such e-application.  We n

13 Vitamins our body needs

  What are the 13 classes of vitamins that our body needs? The 13 vitamins your body needs are: vitamin A, C, D, E, K, B1 (Thiamine), B2 (Riboflavin), B3 (Niacin), B5 (Pantothenic Acid), B6 (Pyridoxine), B7 (Biotin), B9 (Folate) and B12 (Cobalamin). From the fruit-vitamin chart, these vitamins are available in fruits. Group1 : milk (6): A, B1, B2, B6, B12, D + sunlight Banana (2): B, E Tomato (2): C, K Group2 Egg (4): A, B12, D, E Beans/Nuts (): B1; B2, B, B6, E, K Oranges/Grapes: (1): C I am no Doctor.   Generally as one gets older, our absorption and consumption of vitamins may not be enough.  I hear of people adding supplements beside Multivitamin, Omega 3, 6 & 9 in their supplements. During my younger days, I was given cod-liver oil daily.   I remembered its taste.  Recently I tried to consume the same brand of Cod-Liver oil, it still tastes the same; so this brand is not so adulterated and authentic. ~~~~ One added Magnesium supplements too. Magnesium may help to prom

SRS another solid income stream!!

1. One perspective of SRS contributions is another solid Retirement Layer (SRS).   2. SRS scheme was started in 2001, which is to augment our retirement.  Only in 2016 when it increased annual contribution to $15,300. 3. A solid 23 years to contribute and grow into a portfolio. This annual topup of $15.3k into SRS can build up into an SRS income stream.   ~~~ 4. Someone shared that his SRS was used to buy endowment single premiums to generate an income stream of $70k p.a. !!! for upto 70+ yo.   5. Maybe it was his gross estimation. Realistically $30k ~ $40k p.a for 10-year maybe possible. Even so, it will be $3k p.m. from age 65 to 75; quite impression stream too ? ~~~~ 6. How much personal income tax saving from SRS contributions? * At say, 10% tax bracket, it would be saving of $15,300 × 0.1 = $1.5k annually. * At say, 20% personal income tax bracket, savings from SRS contributions would be $15,300 × 0.2 = $3k annually saving. https://www.mof.gov.sg/schemes/individuals/supplementar

Retirement financial consideration

1. Some considerations of Retirement Planning *  Pre-retirement is Wealth accumulation *  Post-retirement is Wealth Preservation, without Wealth de-accumulation, not endless accumulation. *  Emotion Journey in retirement (loss of identity & power can cause unease) *  Steady income steam (from diversify portfolio & allows for long term compounding interest) ~~~~ 2. Layered Retirement Income streams * Stable fixed stream 1. CPFLife Payout 2. CPF Balance (SA/OA) Interest 3. Endowments & Annuities 4. SRS (withdrawal/investment) 5. Cash withdrawal/FD & Bill/Bond interest/ 6. Pension Payout * Dynamic stream 7. Rental income 8. Equity returns 9. Others (e-Vouchers, allowance) ~~~ 3. Retirement expenses woes 1.  High inflation 2.  High living cost expenses 3.  Medical cost 4.  Nursing home cost 5.  Split-over cost from loved ones https://www.inspiredvillages.co.uk/blog/the-journey-through-the-5-stages-of-retirement

Be kind to your liver. How ?

  5 Ways to Be Kind to Your Liver 1. Be careful about alcohol consumption. 2. Wash produce and steer clear of toxins. ... 3. Prevent hepatitis A, B and C. ... 4. Watch out for medications and herbs. ... 5. Exercise and eat right. https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/5-ways-to-be-kind-to-your-liver&ved=2ahUKEwjp5MbB_dODAxVpTGwGHekPA_4QFnoECAkQBQ&usg=AOvVaw2x218jwjTRw-NqHOmj5kLE ~~~ Best Ways To Detox Your Liver 1. Consume More Water. Starting off easy, water is great and one of the best ways to detox your liver. 2. Sweating Is The Way To Go. It is imperative for your body to sweat. 3. Say Goodbye To Toxic Foods. ... 4. Raw Vegetable Juice To The Rescue. 5. You Need Potassium-Rich Foods. 6. Liver Support Supplements. https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://psrihospital.com/simple-ways-to-detox-your-liver/&ved=2ahUKEwjp5M

Parent topup to children CPF

I realised that this was Mr CPF Loo's sharing with FM93.8 on building up Child's CPF SA. Annually CPF will publish a Table showing CPF Regrossed Balance tabulating for various ages and their corresponding Balance in CPF. Regrossed Balance in 2022, only 30 children have more than $300k ~ $400k in their CPF. Let me try extract this table, as attached. I was thinking if this was real. I checked my SA topup for my children; now in their mid-20s. To-date their SA is more than $110k; projected to achieve $600k+ at their age 65. Thinking back, CPF only started a "Others" category in year 2015 to allow topup for our children; that was when when they were in Secondary schools. And they don't even have Nric to register for CPF Login Account yet !!  Everything is hardcopy then, include bringing their Birth Certs to CPFB Branch to do the transactions for first topup. So from 2015 to 2023, 9 years of topup to reach their present SA $110k+ in Jan 2024. For my case, it is just

Retrenched without notice

 https://cna.asia/3HbLsbq This morning we heard of Lazada retrenched without notice; and even recalled the staff back from leaves just to be issued the R" Letter. One of the real nightmares is to be retrenched without advanced notice or due to poor performance or other damning reasons. This is esp. worrying if you are sole breadwinner of a young family with schooling kids. Imagine that it happened to your children or loved ones who just started their family. My first Resale Endowment policy was bought from a young housewife of 30yo.  According to her agent whom I met later, her spouse was retrenched and she might have surrendered her policy (~$10k+) to support the family. Sad but harsh reality.  My takeaway: 1.  Std answer: Build up a second source of income, be it from another part-time job or passive income. 2. Choose your SAFE secure job properly. But have a mindset that your job can be taken away from you; lest to get emotionally attached to the job. 3. As parents, give a lif

Paradox of using CPF-OA to buy T-bills

Paradox of using CPF-OA for T-bills & investment. Usually 1 Jan is a routine activity for CPF Balance stock-take. 1.  Check annual interest for the past year; in this case Whole Year Interest for 2022. 2.  VCMA to BHS from $68,500 to $71,500 by $3,000 cash topup, VCRA to its ERS from $298,200 to $308,700, with $10,500 cash topup. 3.  Subsequently another VC3AC by ~$8,000 cash topup to 3 CPF accounts (OA & SA, since MA reached its BHS).  This is to max CPF topup to its yearly $37,740 for Seniors whose CPF contribution rate is reduced after age 55 and then after age 60. 4.  Subsequently few cash topups to refund MA withdrawal by Medical premiums; maybe $3,000 for whole year. ~~~ I noticed that my total whole-year interest (for 2022) actually dropped and less than that of 2021. I expected its interest $33k+ for whole-year 2022.  But it was $30k+. Reason: I use OA to buy 6-mth T-bills.   T-bills interest earned is returned into OA Balance, not accounted as interest paid by CPFB. I

Keep our teeth intact

  Sharing on Teeth & oral hygiene 1. This week I met with few Seniors in their 70s & 80.  All are still able to walk without aid. 2. Particularly two of them already have full lower mouth dentures. One was candidly showing me his food cutter in case that he had to eat hard meat. 3. It seems like lower teeth decay first.  4. One has to floss our teeth regularly to remove plaques. At least half-yearly regular visit to dentist is required too for cavities, cleaning and oral checks. 5. I used to have my dental in Singapore. But now my dental appointments are in Bkt Indah Dental Clinic. The cost is 1/3 cost of that in SG. ~~~~ 6. Lol. I had an ex-colleague, 60yo then, whose teeth is always seen with full of plaque. Each time I speak to him, somehow I would be looking at his teeth. As I did not know him well, I held my comment. 7. Inevitably after a few years, I saw that he had lost two front lower teeth. Dental Plaque Dental plaque is a sticky film that forms on your teeth. E

Stock picks for Retirement

 1. My sharing on my layered 20 endowments: a. For the past 10-years, I have been building up about $600k worth of endowments to supplement my Retirement Income base. I started the Endowment Chapter in 2011 at age 47. (The same year that I also embark from my health regime and clocked 4 full Marathons in 10 years.) b. And 10-year later, this Endowment Chapter is yielding results. Starting from 2022 at age 58, my layered endowments have and will be paying my lifelong cash payouts.  Last year was $40k, This year payout is $70k.  Next year onwards will continue to give me $40k+ p.a. , not including annual cashback reinvestment of $12k per year over next 6 ~ 8 years. This endowment payout will give me a stable average $4k p.m. of retirement income when I retire. c. For now, likely I will taper off my Endowments Chapter. One thing about nibbling into endowments, it gives me time and investment maturity & clarity for next portfolio.   d. I supposed that one cannot avoid stock and propert

Daily Healthy Habits

  10 Healthy Habits to practice everyday 1. Take Vitamin n supplements 2. Hydrate 3. Stretch 4. Walk outside 5. Socialise 6. Mediate n Breathing 7. Eat mindfully 8. Keep a Journal 9. Practice proper hygiene 10. Wind down for bed earlier https://www.foxnews.com/health/10-healthy-habits-practice-every-day-that-take-less-than-10-minutes-each ~~~ I would add: 11.  Be thankful for the day 12.  Say a prayer for your loved ones

Car park lot fight. You won ?

 Happy Sonday Carpark joke Scene 1: 2 cars fight over a parking lot. (Witnessed today) a. Woman in early 50s got out of car: "I came first, you get out of the Lot." b. Old man sheepishly exit from the half-entered Lot. Scene 2: 2 cars fight over a parking lot. (My encounter 20-years ago) a. Young man in his 30s said: "I came first. You get out of the Lot." b. Older man with his wife: "Sorry sorry, 我无耻的,我下流. (I am despicable)" c. Young man walked away angrily. Scene 3: 2 cars fight over a parking lot. (My encounter 10-years ago) a. Young man's car happened to arrive at the just-emptied lot, but another old man snatched it. b. Old man car was at right turn far distance insisted, rushed in & took the lot: "I waited for 30min, this lot is mine. You just came. You wait." c. Both created a scene for 20s, before another car exit the lot near them. Scene 4: 2 cars fighting for a lot. (My encounter 10-years ago) a. Young man came from opposite

Don't rob God's People? Backfire

Just had lunch with a missionary.  Their perspective of hoarding assets are so different from us.   Oddly, our conversation did not even talk of CPF, or endowments.  Day-night we dream n breathe $$.   They are contentment, Word and Missions.  In other words, we live in 'Greed'; wonder if you would disagree. Good reminder. One lesson from our chats: "Dont cheat on God's People.  Bad things can really backfire."

Why I surrender my wholelife insurance at 60yo

Painful & sad to surrender my ILP PrudLink today. Imagine I am a believer in endowments & insurance, and yet to surrender one, due to rising mortality cost. To-date, I have 20 endowment policies (one just matured) , and 14 insurance protection under my name; excludes this PrudLink. Over time, if not surrendered, it will eat up my policy cash value & eventually forced lower my actual death coverage value. At the rate of increasing morality charge after age 60, my annual premium already inadequate to cover my insurance cost; net loss is $54 per month x 12 = $648 p.a. loss . (This net loss over my annual premium was provided by the Prud Counter staff). Any insurance policy (be it ILP or traditional) will encounter rising mortality cost when one gets very old above 60yo.  The annual premiums which we pay will not be adequate to cover the insurance cost. This will eat into my cash value till zero; then the coverage will be reduced over the years. ~~~  My TPD & Disability Cov

Know your health numbers

 Happened to read about Kidney Disease: 2 test parameters seem important: Creatinine level & Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR). ~~~ Usually we hear and share about property, investment, CPF, stocks, rental..   We all say Health is important. So how we keep healthy? ~~~ Usually when we are nearing 50yo or into 60yo, it is recommended that we go for internal body screening: 1.  Colonoscopy & Gastroscopy 2.  If female, more tests like Mammogram & Pap smear. For me, I would do a full body baseline check at age 50. ~~~~ Full Body check-up It involves the following 8 non-invasive screening tests: (ownself idea.  I am no doctor): 1. Brain & Neck MRI 2. Eye Check 3. Breathe Test -  Bacteria in stomach. 4. Upper body Chest X-ray 5.  Heart Exercise Stressed Test or even 3D-MRI) 6. Lower abdomen ultrasound 7. Colonoscopy & Gastroscopy 8. Prostate The last time which I did was in my early 50yo.  As they are fairly comprehensive, it took me about 3-years to complete

Any good lobang for saving plans?

After 1 Jul21, no good lobang for new endowments. First Option : Limited tenure Structured Deposit or Bonds offer by Banks (or T-bills).  Good time it can offer 3.5% to 4% due to high interest period. Second option would be leveraged annuity, but subjected to high loan interest. I love this, but before 1 Jul21. Not after. Third option : Investment Link Policies (ILP) from AIA, Manulife n GE.  But buy those which has bonuses promotion.  But ilp is love-hate. Of all ilp, AIA seems best performer in par fund performance history. I not so love this, but better bet for higher returns than any new endowments. But for (3) above, it depends on entry age. For me, nearing 60, best is to put into SA n RA. Least risk and guaranteed returns at 4%. Even ILP carrots better than 6%, I wont bite it.  Fourth: Traded Insurances or Resale Insurance.  Better chance of good returns; but choose your policy wisely with guaranteed returns.   I would recommend this. ~~~ After sharing my traded endowments jour

Blue Zone - Healthy Centurions Zones

Netflix documentary on " Blue Zone - Healthy Centurions who live nearing 100 or over 100 yo, healthy". Why Blue Zone ? 1. It started when researchers started to dot a "blue-dot" each place a Centurion was spotted. 2. Over time, over the world, they notice that there are trending of Healthy Centurions living in a Zones in various parts of the world. 3. The documentary visit these zones to speak to these Centurions, to gather their livestyles. 4. They are healthy, many unaided, independent, good mental capacity, physical healthy. 5. I happened to see two series of these Blue Zones: * Japan, Okinawa Blue Zone * * Italy Sardinia Blue Zone * * USA Loma Linda Blue Zone * 6. I captured some points here, for sharing: - Frequent Walks; (some on steep uphill) - Community social norms.  Community care and eat together. Not living in isolation. Care for Elderly. - Traditions n Religion ; faith n hope, interaction, choir - Right Tribe with healthy habits and behaviors

How much CI coverage sufficient ?

In one Retirement Planning Webinar, I ask what would be recommended CI coverage.  The reply offline from agent was 2~3 years of annual income. Many would be grossly under covered. I think CI coverage cannot be quoted by percentage.  If 2x 3x, it may run into $Million for household coverage !  Who would cover so much in CI!! And age 60 beyond, CI term premiums are very expensive! Unless one buy CI TermLife.   During 90s, early n late CI are unheard of; CI List is also not comprehensive. ~~~ I remembered someone, whose parents recently both died of cancer, was sure CI is non-essential and coverage $50k~$100k generally suffice.  Surely he is correct; being single in his early 40s, it will be someone's biz to take care of him?

Mindef-Aviva Term (Living Care)

For Mindef-Aviva Term policy: I noticed that Living Care premium: - jumps at age 45 by ~300% (from $9.90 --> $27.50 p.m.). - jumps at age 60 by ~40% (from $58 --> $80 p.m.). Takeaway#1 is to buy Limited Pay TERMLife CI before age 40 where its premium are lock-in at entry. Takeaway#2 for Mindef-Aviva Term Living Care policy: is not worth buying Living Care & Living Care Plus after age 60. (See RED circle above on steep premium from $58 to $80 p.m. from age 60). In fact, mortality charge premium (for senior beyond age 60) for most insurance policy are high. ~~~~ About a year ago, I was at Manulife Roadshow; the young agent sounded convincing to advise me to surrender my ILP Prudlink Wholelife policy and use the cash to switch over buy her ILP Manulife ... with bonus.    This new Manulife policy cover more CI coverage list and properly stated late CI. A few clarification from me about mortality charge and sale charge, she was quietened. ~~~~~ In summary , 1. Dont buy any mor

Melbourne for retirement contributions?

We self-drive from Melbourne Central, along Dandedong, Yarra Valley, Warburton, Gippsland, to Tip South Cape Schanck, back to Mornington, Chadstone, to Melbourne Central. The land is so vast with many small towns along the way. Melbourne city is melting pot of many races, very vibrant.  (Not my first holiday in Melbourne).  I didn't face much racial discrimination when holidaying. Outside Melbourne Central, in suburbs , more Caucasians and little Asians are seen; maybe is not school holidays time. As I shop nearby Chadstone which is about 20km from Melbourne Central, more Asians shoppers are seen. My opinion for retirement perspective, - city living in nearby Melbourne Central region, - good time to retire is when we are able, before mid-70s.  - best time to stay is mid-Sep to mid-Feb which is around Late Spring to Summer time. - don't invest big in condo nor apartment.  Small 2BR + 2 Toilets may be good enough. Locals prefer landed away from Central Melbourne, I think.  So re

Rules for the Old & being Old

  25 RULES TO BE OLD AND  HAPPY * 01 -* Don't get involved in your children's lives. * 02 -* Do not interfere with the education of grandchildren. * 03 -* Love or at least tolerate your son-in-law and daughter-in-law, it was your son or daughter’s choice. * 04 -* Never take sides or give your opinion on their marriage. * 05 -* Don't make yourself an elderly complainer. * 06 -* Don't be an elderly person feeling sorry for yourself. * 07 -* Don't get attached *TO YOUR TIME,* it has passed. * 08 -* Have plans for the future. * 09 -* Don't talk about illnesses. Rest assured, nobody wants to know. * 10 -* No matter how much you earn, save a portion every month. * 11 -* Don't procrastinate. There is not much time left. * 12 -* Have a health plan or save money for medical expenses. * 13 -* Save money for the funeral or have a plan for that purpose. * 14 -* Don't leave "problems" for your children. * 15 -* Don't stay connected to the news or politi

Be Lovable & useful, but still meaningless

FOUR STAGES OF ELIMINATION IN LIFE At the age of 60 , the workplace eliminates you. No matter how successful or powerful you were during your career, you'll return to being an ordinary person. So, don't cling to the mindset and sense of superiority from your past job, let go of your ego, or you might lose your sense of ease! At the age of 70, s ociety gradually eliminates you. The friends and colleagues you used to meet and socialize with become fewer, and hardly anyone recognizes you at your former workplace. Don't say, "I used to be..." or "I was once..." because the younger generation won't know you, and you mustn't feel uncomfortable about it! At the age of 80 , family slowly eliminates you. Even if you have many children and grandchildren, most of the time you'll be living with your spouse or by yourself. When your children visit occasionally, it's an expression of affection, so don't blame them for coming less often, as they'

SRS to build up a retirement income layer. Smart one

Using my colleague's case of using SRS to build up a layered Retirement INCOME : 1.One senior colleague shared that he uses his SRS to buy into endowments; 2. it will pay him annually $40k p.a. when he retires. 3. I was a little doubtful; upon clarification, he shared that the $40k p.a. payouts will not last till age 85.  4. If I try to illustrate using a more predictable INCOME SAIL-SP policy: Yr-1 to Yr-14 : Invest single premium: $30k p.a. x 14 years (invest at age 50 to 63) = $420k total invested. 5. Maturity payouts from age 65 to 78 From Yr-11 to Yr-24: Maturity sum: 14 x 45k p.a. (payout from age 65 to 78) 6. While we put aside if SRS can achieve it, because only $15.3k p.a. annually, requiring every 2-yearly to buy a $30k policy in our illustration.  He would have bought $15k p.a. instead. In summary, 7. what he says may be achievable. 8. Of course INCOME SAIL policies allow payout over 20-years; need not surrender at age 11 as illustrated.  If he had done it,he might be a

Layered Endowments as Annuity

Using layered insurance endowments payouts as Annuity Income: 1.  Previously INCOME and some insurers offer CLASSIC ANNUITY Plans for single premiums by cash or OA.  And those days, BI payout illustration was based on higher Par Fund Performance as follows: Before 1 Jul 2013: 4.75% to 5.25% I managed to buy 5 new endowments during this BEST period. After 1 Jul 2013: 3.25% to 4.75 % I managed to 4 new endowments  during this period. After 1 Jul 2021: Now the BI Par Fund Performance projection is much lower at 3.00% to 4.25%. Why Insurers lower than BI illustration ? Because MAS intervened to ensure its projection was based market Par Fund Performance conditions. MAS intervened twice on 1Jul 19 and 1 Jul 21. Since then, my opinion was that new endowments were not attractive anymore. 1. While one can argue that these are payout projections guidelines, insurers can pay more than these projection payout.   2. But again, which insurers would be so nice to pay much more than it projected in

My journey of building up 19 endowments

Part #1 New Endowments (10 NEW policies) At the age of 47, after fully paid my home mortgage, car loan and children entered into the Secondary schooling, I am better to commence my passive income savings. After some lousy hits-and-runs in local stocks, I decided to slowly nibble into buying new endowments as a way of savings.  No one taught us how to save!! Over 10 years, I finally bought a total of 9 new endowments invested, directly through the insurance companies: 2011: 1 endowment, amt: $100k (from GE) 2012: 1 endowment amt:  $130k (from GE) 2013: 3 endowments amt: $ 92k (from INCOME & GE leveraged endowment) 2015: 1 endowment amt:   $ 42k (from Prud) 2019: 2 endowments amt: $160k (from TM & INCOME) 2021: 1 endowments amt: $ 73k (from GE PLG3) Total premiums: $596k (Part #1) ~~~~~~~ Part#2 - Resale Endowments (10 Resale Policies) In Jun 2021, Monetary Authority of Singapore announced the lowering of Par Fund Performance low and high return payout.  This was to take effect o

Invest and Rent JB pty. Return good?

 On MY properties, my friend bought two freehold JB condos as Foreigner buying above RM500k per unit; meant as for bequest/inheritance for his two sons. He shared that he is just renting out the unit to AirBnB stays, for some days he can still stay in JB too. Because of his age at 65, he is not able to take MY home loan and have to pay for full condo by TOP.  Each unit he paid ~RM900k (or S$260k); total RM1.8M (S$520k) by TOP in 2024.  One unit has TOP; while another nearby will TOP by 2024. His two sons' wives are MY who owns MY local properties too. ~ I share my views with him: 1.  Why didnt he pass the monies to his DIL, let them choose the JB condo or landed they wishes.  And being a local, his DILs are not subject to min RM500k threshold pty requirement.   As locals, they would have bought at local prices.   (of course under both sons' names too. His children have already own SG HDB home liao). 2. For AirBnB rental for both units, even if the rental is RM1k pm, (or RM12k p

Does Blood Bank want your blood? It tells your health

 Someone shared that a particular chap has a wide investment diversification; which included: 1. Pty (local n overseas) 2. FD (T-bills, bonds) 3. Cash 4. Equity (ETF, local n overseas, S&P500) 5. Endowments 6. SRS 7. CPF 8. Cryptos ~~~~~~ My reply would be: If he is in his 20s to mid 40s, he is very commendable and outstanding. Never mind if the passive income is sizable.  His runway is still long way to grow. And being investment savvy, he will outshine. ~~~ Generally, if one is nearing retirement or retired, usually all these taps maybe more or less default. By then we cannot talk in % now. We will be asking what is the real passive income number ?  $200k p.a.?  For working class peoples. If he is willing to share his numbers. ~~~~ For some who has retired, even 3 or 4 taps are already JBL (Jia Buay Liao); do not need to be troubled by so many investment types. I have known of one couple who owns few landed and many pty condos (more than 10 then, local pty).  They belong to diffe

Can a 40yo starts to retirement big-save ?

 It may not be easy for young couple with kids who just started family to start saving big-time for retirement. ~~~ Someone in chat candidly detailed his $12k (x 2?) household monthly expenses; mainly: - fixed expenses $10k - kids enichment classes: $4k - maid n food: $4k - car n other expenses: $2k - HDB + Pte condo loan: $4k+ p.m. On investment : Usually one will start to big-time-save for retirement around age 40s; when your kid is into teenage years.  His loan obligation may get lower. But with so much mentors sharing, the younger ones learn better to invest; unlike us who pay for hard lessons. For him, one hdb and one private are very commendable feat.  From his HDB Town Council charges of $80 p.m., likely it maybe a 3-rm flat? Hefty loan risk: But $4k+ p.m. housing loan, likely for his pte condo, is hefty and maybe risky. What if one or both got retrench, which ever happened to few couples ? (My first resale endowment was bought from a 30-yo young housewife whose spouse got retre

$500k strategy for ~$3.9k p.m. lifetime payout

 A lot of chats talk of achieving $3k p.m. retirement passive income.  1. Is it $1k, $2k or $3.5k ? Some asked if $1k p.m. or $2k p.m. is enough.  A retirement lifestyle survey says $3.5k p.m. can retire adequately. 2. Is it $1.8k investible portfolio sufficient to general dividend? 3. Some say 2% or 4% drawdown from your networth. ~~~~ My workable, practicable strategy just require $346k + $143k = $490k portfolio is enough to generate an annual passive income from age 65 with lifetime payout of $46k p.m. (or $3.9k p.m.) Just do the following: 1. CPF-RA: $346k @59yo. 2. 3 x endowments, payout at $32k p.a., singly. ~~~~~ To extrapolate, imagine a couple would double up to $46k x 2 = $92k p.a. (or $3.9k x 2 = $7.8k p.m.) ~~~~~ Query1 from someone1: Are these real numbers? My reply: These are my real numbers.   My CPF Retirement RA Payout: 1. Payout is from CPFB estimator calculator at age 65 and 70.   2. The CPF RA Payout says $2,150 p.m. at my age 65.  So my annual RA payout: $2,150 × 1

Slaving in the World

 Someone in chat asked on how best optimise his cash on buying into T-bills; and minimise his effort to monitor. I thought was no-brainer; it has by left and by right implications: Option 1. Easiest is lump sum into T-bills, easier to admin. Then renew in 6mth- or 12mth- bill Option 2: Build-down and do DCA for T-bills; as by averaging, we will dollar average the T-bill auction price. By left answer: "watch your thought on the "Love of money".  Meaningless, absolutely meaningless. ~~~~ Sharing on being slaved in the world Yesterday I spoke to a colleague; asking why he didnt reply to my whatsapp, sent last week ?  His answer was that he read it but too busy to reply.  Upon further asking, his large home aquarium of 1000 fishes, half died of bacterium.  He had to clean up the mess; now the aquarium health is in control. It makes me wonder, if I were the one who were too caught up and slaved by technology. ~~~~ Find a hobby, spend our time wisely. By the way, my colleague

My strategy to beat Delayed CPFLife Payout at age 70

 The strategy: 1. Still Withdraw CPFLife payout at age 65. 2. For me, I would select Basic Plan instead of Std Plan or Escalating Plan.  Std Plan or Escalating Plan bequest becomes zero around age 80/82. But Basic Plan payout bequest becomes zero around age 92.  3. Strategy 1 (just by-the-way sharing), difference between Std Plan and Basic Plan payout from age 65 to 85 is ~$180 p.m. x 12 × (86 - 65) = $43k. Choose Basic Plan.  Just build up a sum equals to $43k before retirement, you already would have enjoyed Std Plan Payout.  In addition, re-invest this $43k, you earn even more. ~~~ Strategy #2 (which you requested): 4. Withdraw CPFLife payout at age 65. Then, (depend on how deep your pocket):  option 1: On Jan or any month after age 65, transfer back your $$ into RA or even VC3AC & MA again. This will have effect of delay your payout, and yet withdraw first.  This will earn you 4% interest. Continue to do it from age 65 to 69/70, to match the effects of delayed Payout at age

Should I start my CPFLife Payout at age 65 or delay till age 70?

Should I start my CPFLife Payout at age 65 or delay till age 70? Here is my answer:  1. Compare: * BASIC Plan RA payout at 65yo vs * Delayed BASIC Plan RA payout to age 70-yo . 2. The Payout is based on CPFB provided RA Payout Estimator at age 65 and delayed at age 70. Hence more acccurate. 3. My CPFLife payout at age 65 will be $2150 p.m. If I delay my CPFLife payout till age 70, my payout will be $2,870 p.m. Above are based on BASIC Plan payouts. 4. I tabulate the combined payouts; and find that the delayed payout at age 70 will only catch-up at age 84 with those who starts payout at age 65. 5. Breakeven for Delayed Payout at age 70, with Payout at age 65, is at age 84. (comparing BASIC plan and BASIC plan payout.  Not BASIC n STD Plans) ~~~~ 6. Actually I have a legal way to better-er to beat the payout system, even if I withdraw at age 65.  Beat the BASIC age70 payout for life and for bequest. 7. I shared the strategy with my colleagues who early wanted to withdraw at age 70; but

Resale Endowment explains

On Resale Endowments, there are about 7 local Resale Agents; Largest is REPS. I prefer TES Capital and Conservation Capital; being smaller and lesser overhead cost.  My opinion. As for reliable, all are reliable as your policy deal is transferred directly at the original insurer; For example, if original policy is bought with Ntuc Income, then your resale transaction can be done at Ntuc branch; discuss directly with the Ntuc branch Agent.  Document is chopped and official. Subsequently Ntuc will send official acknowledgement that you are the new Policy Holder, though Assured is still the original assured. And you can go to Ntuc Income app, your resale policy is registered in your portfolio. Once you go to TES or CC Investment List, the Policy Code will tell you their policy is from which Insurer. Example N1657 refers to Ntuc Income Policy No. is xxxxxx1657 or M1666 refers to Manulife or P4555 refers to Prud or S1355 refers to Singlife As I have bought many resale policies from TES and

Is MY EPF better than our CPF?

 This present CPF was "suan" by Late Ex DPM Toh CC. I think the EPF is better.  It is more flexible. 1.  Far higher but unsustainably high interest rate at 8.15%. 2. Full withdrawal allowed at age 55.   3. Case by case basis, it can be  withdrawn before age 55. 4. One can choose not to withdraw after age 55 to enjoy the high interest rate; withdrawal of annual interest is allowed.  You keep what you earn. If one is able to save RM1M, annual interest earn is RM1,000,000 x 0.0815 = RM81,500 (eye-bogging sum). 5. EPF can be withdrawn for home repayment. ~~~~ From ChatGPT:  Malaysia EPF Explained: The Employees Provident Fund (EPF) is a retirement savings scheme in Malaysia.  It is a compulsory savings plan for employees, where both the employer and the employee contribute a portion of the employee's monthly salary to the fund. The main objective of EPF is to help Malaysian workers save for their retirement. Here are some key points about Malaysia's EPF Contribution : Bo

Am I stressing by heart during exercise ?

 1.  Is it OK to exercise near max heart rate? The American Heart Association recommends exercising with a target heart rate of   50 to 75 percent of your maximum heart rate for beginners, and for moderately intense exercise .  You can work at 70 to 85 percent of your maximum heart rate during vigorous activity. 2. How long is it safe to run at max heart rate? Max Heartbeat rate (MHR) is based on 220 - your_age. Since your max heart rate is attained by the most strenuous level of physical exertion your body is capable of, it is only sustainable for very short periods of time.  For the average person, this likely falls somewhere between 10 seconds and 1 minute. 3. Can I run at 95% max heart rate? Vigorous: 77% to 95% of MHR The vigorous heart rate zone is from 77% to 95% of your maximum heart rate.  You are now in the vigorous-intensity zone. You will be breathing very hard and able only to speak in short phrases.   This is the zone to aim for when training for endurance. 4. Does max h

Malaysian endowment? I also bought

you know lah.  I also got Malaysian endowment too with TM 20-year policy; 1. Tokio Marine 20-year endowment bought with  MY bank Total premiums paid: RM300k, guaranteed yearly.  I also got Malaysian endowment too with TM 20-year policy; 1. Tokio Marine 20-year endowment bought in MY bank Total premiums paid: RM300k, guaranteed yearly payout of RM10.5k for next 19 years.  On Year 20, get back maturity amount sum: RM300k+.  2. The policy fund performance Benefit Illustration (BI) is illustrated at 5.5% and 8%.   Unbelievable but that roughly matched EPF at 5.35% @2023. 3. The Policy is transparent ; it shows you: - how much premium used for rider coverage, - its death & TPD payout grows to x1.5 - it's agent fees n charges 4. To maximise return , one should reduce premiums used for rider protection; in this case, use your children as Policy Assured ; this is to keep rider premiums as low as possible to max investment return to the policy which we pay. 5. I can also make partial

Our Job is best investment

When I first started working, that was about 35 years ago, my eldest brother then gave me this advice. "Focus on doing your full time job well;  it will be your best investment". Looking back, his advice may be still valid and true for me. Just a bonus in one year, one can even save the trouble to make small profits bites (say $250 per month) in trading for more than years. Unless it is for purpose of mental exercise play play.  But usually such trading need to spend many nights to monitor which can lose some sleeps.

You can run betterer than me?

 I free-free extracted some runs from past few months of May- early Jul 23.  My observation from this data extraction: 1. It seems that I am now not able to clock 7+min/km which I used to in early 50s, before Covid.  The extra ~10-year reduces my allowable max heartbeats by ~10beats/min. 2. And be it 5km or 13km, my pace now is fairly consistent at 9+min/km. 3. I am pacing myself not to exceed my max heartbeat of 161 beats/min.  In so doing, 7~8min/km was things of the past. 4. Even if I can achieve 7~8min/km, it will be at my expenses of doing a worthiness stress test on my heart. 5. At age 59, I need to be mindful not to run like a 40-yo, even if I can still clock 7+min/km. But I need to add that my runs timing included a few traffic road stop/waiting-time. My next longer run would be the StdChart full-Marathon on Dec 23.  But let's hope that I can stil complete within the 7.5 h cut-off time; my 5th full marathon.