Ever wondered what it's really like to run a business in China? From surviving the early 2000s recession to building innovative platforms, learn how these two seasoned Singaporean entrepreneurs spent over a decade building their ventures in the world's second-largest economy. Expect raw, unfiltered insights about the real challenges, unexpected opportunities, and what it truly takes to succeed in China's fast-paced business environment.

Guests:

• Roy Lin, Founder, GenTM—13 years in Shanghai, social entrepreneur focusing on connecting master tailors globally
• Keith Ng, Founder, Emilica Homes—22 years in Kunshan—runs a furniture manufacturing business with 200+ employees

Key highlights from our conversation:

• The unexpected journey that turned a two-year China stint into a decade-plus adventure
• Why some Singaporean entrepreneurs are still finding unprecedented opportunities in China's evolving economy
• Raw truths about running a business in China—from late-night negotiations to navigating complex regulations
• A fascinating new venture to revolutionize the global tailoring industry
• Compelling insights about China's intense work culture and what it means for aspiring entrepreneurs

Whether you're an entrepreneur eyeing the Chinese market, curious about international business, or interested in understanding the real story behind China's economic transformation, this episode offers authentic perspectives from someone who's lived it firsthand.

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00:54 Introducing Roy Lin, Founder of GenTM

01:59 Introducing Keith Ng, Founder of Emilica Homes

08:33 How affordable is the cost of living in Kunshan?

16:48 Are the costs different or similar across the zones?

22:38 Does the trade wars affecting the quality of life?

24:38 How does the labor law works in China?

29:28 With the difficulties of living in China, Why would you still stay?

32:58 For the upcoming entrepreneur, how do you encourage them?

36:18 Despite all the struggles, is it truly worth it?

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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.

Help us get to know you better: http://bit.ly/thefinancialcoconut-survey

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Curious how Singapore’s annual Budget comes to life?

Tune in as our hosts Reggie and Adrian, author of “No More Bosses,” dive deep with two top minds from the Ministry of Finance (MOF):

- Lim Ming Jing (Director, Social Programmes) and

- John Koh (Budget 2025 Director and concurrently Director, Security & Resilience Programmes)

What’s in store?

- Behind-the-scenes revelations on balancing immediate concerns (think CDC vouchers!) with longer-term nation-building.

- Why vouchers over cash?

- The story behind SkillsFuture’s evolution—and how your feedback shapes policies.

- "Theory of Change": How ministries pitch ideas (and why some get funded while others don’t).

- Candid takes on taxing wealth, ageing populations, and why your family’s income matters more than you think.

Ming Jing and John pull back the curtain on the gritty realities of policy-making—from managing public concerns to competing global pressures. Whether you’re a policy nerd or just want to know where your tax dollars go, this episode is packed with aha moments you won’t hear anywhere else.

Tune in for a masterclass in governance—and find out why even middle-class Singaporeans might rethink their gripes about the Budget.

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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

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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.

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Did you know your lifetime healthcare insurance could cost nearly a million dollars?

Join special guests as they pull back the curtain on the jaw-dropping mechanics of Integrated Shield Plans:

• Alex Lee, Chief Actuary
• David Wu, Minimalist in the City & Financial Coach
• Eddy Cheong, CEO of Havend

In this episode, uncover:

• Why premiums keep skyrocketing — and the hidden "buffet syndrome" driving your costs up.
• The real impact of medical inflation and how it’s quietly draining your savings.
• Expert strategies to decide: Do you REALLY need that premium plan?
• A candid debate on public vs. private healthcare — is faster treatment worth the price tag?

Eddie brings insider insights on conflict-free insurance advice, while Alex breaks down the actuarial secrets behind pricing and reserves.

"It’s not just insurance — it’s a climate change-level problem we’re creating for each other."

Don’t miss this eye-opening deep dive into one of Singapore’s most pressing financial dilemmas. Whether you’re 25 or 65, this episode could save you hundreds of thousands in the long run.

Tune in now — before your next premium renewal hits!

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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:

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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]

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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.

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are Singapore banks the golden ticket to bulletproof investing? Or is the ship sailing just as the storm clouds gather?

Join Reggie, your Chief Financial Coconut, and special guest Willie Keng—Founder of DividendTitan.com and a seasoned expert in dividend investing—as they crack open the vault on one of Singapore’s most debated topics: Should you invest in local banks?

What you can expect:

- The "3-6-3 Rule" that’s kept banks profitable for decades (hint: it’s not what you think).

- Critical metrics every investor MUST check before buying bank stocks (spoiler: deposits aren’t just for savings accounts).

- Why wealth management is quietly reshaping Singapore’s banking giants—and what it means for your portfolio.

- The red flags even seasoned investors miss when evaluating banks (think Lehman Brothers and Credit Suisse).

- Valuation secrets: Are Singapore banks overpriced? Willie reveals his surprising ranking of the "Big Three."

- Bonus: How Hong Kong and China’s financial turbulence could create hidden opportunities for savvy investors.

Willie breaks down complex banking strategies into bite-sized wisdom, while Reggie challenges him with hard-hitting questions. Whether you’re a dividend hunter or a growth seeker, this episode arms you with a framework to navigate banking stocks—without the jargon.

Banking on success? Tune in before the market closes the door.

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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

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03:43 - Can you explain how banks generate revenue?

06:38 - How do capital rules affect how much banks can lend and their risk?

19:11 - Besides loan interest, what other ways do banks make money today?

27:32 - How do you compare the three big banks for investment?

32:06 - How much does management quality matter when comparing these banks?

34:33 - What valuation range would you prefer for investing in local banks?

37:02 - Are there opportunities in the undervalued financial sector?

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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.

Help us get to know you better: http://bit.ly/thefinancialcoconut-survey

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever wonder what it take for someone to leave a comfortable, impactful career to step into the unpredictable world of politics?

Meet Shawn Loh, a former Ministry of Finance Director, private sector leader, and dad of four kids under 12. He’s stepping into the political arena, but why now?

Highlights:

- From Civil Servant to Candidate: Why leave a stable career for the "ring of fire"? Shawn reveals his unfiltered take on duty, policy-making, and the real cost of public service.

- Work-Life Balance or Bust: How raising 4 kids shapes his fight for affordable childcare, eldercare, and redefining "family time" in Singapore.

- CPF Secrets & Economic Fears: Behind-the-scenes stories from his MOF days + his warning about Singapore’s next biggest economic challenge.

- "Fired Up" vs. FIRE: Forget retiring early – Shawn flips the script on financial independence with a controversial twist.

Some hot takes you won’t want to miss:

- Politics isn’t a career – it’s a calling

- Quality time can’t replace quantity time with kids

- The debate on pet bereavement leave (yes, really) and what it says about Singapore’s future

Whether you’re a policy nerd, a stressed parent, or just curious about the minds shaping Singapore’s next decade – this raw, no-filter conversation bridges national budgets and kitchen-table struggles.

Is joining politics worth losing your privacy – and sanity? Tune in NOW to hear the answer.

04:34 - What motivated you to join politics?

09:21 - When you talk about work-life balance, how do you translate that idea into actionable policies?

15:27 - Given the personal sacrifices of entering politics, what is the core platform or issue you hope to push for?

24:26 - What’s your view on unemployment insurance and enhancing MediShield coverage for working professionals?

32:17 - What’s your party’s stance on minimum wage versus the progressive wage model?

36:43 - How should we view CPF contribution cuts during downturns, given its long-term impact on retirement?

41:13 - What’s your view on minimum income standards and how do you define a good life for Singaporeans?

46:11 - What role should the state play in balancing individual aspirations with life’s practical demands?

49:45 - How does state support in basics help Singaporeans pursue their aspirations?

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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]

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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.

Help us get to know you better: http://bit.ly/thefinancialcoconut-survey

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is your money working for you, or are you working too hard for it?

Watch as our guests battle it out in TFC Budget Royale, sharing valuable financial insights that you can apply to your own life. Discover how protecting your financial future can also contribute to a healthier lifestyle.

Cast your vote to crown the Budget King/ Queen for each topic—plus, the best commenter stands a chance to win alongside their Budget King/ Queen!

Featuring:

• Stanley, the man with 4 jobs, reveals his unique approach to managing expenses

• Fran, one-half of the Corporate Breakout Couple, brings insights from 5 years of early retirement experience

• Alex Loh, co-host of Wise & Shine and growth mindset coach, is balancing family life with a household of 6 adults and 3 kids

We’re tackling inflation, retirement planning, and family spending with practical tips. You might even find a surprise or two that could improve both your wealth and well-being.

Who will win your vote—and the Budget King crown—each round?

Listen now and join the conversation

How to Win the Prize?

To participate, vote for the "Budget King/Queen" and one (1) original financial tip or comment per episode on the designated platforms. The Financial Coconut will evaluate comments based on relevance, originality, and engagement. The "Best Commenter" will win a prize!

Make sure your entry follows our content guidelines. Offensive or promotional content will disqualify your entry. For full Terms and Conditions, visit: https://www.thefinancialcoconut.com/p....

This episode is brought to you by Manulife, for details of Manulife Early CompleteCare, please visit https://go.manulife.sg/MECCTFC . Terms and Conditions apply.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed belong to the guest/content creator, and do not represent the views of Manulife (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. Protected up to specified limits by SDIC.

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.

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What happens when you climb the corporate ladder, hit financial freedom… and then walk away from it all?

Joining us is Shao, ex-Googler turned full-time YouTuber, who made headlines (and stirred the comments section) when he left Singapore and relocated to Chiang Mai. Was it burnout? Was it strategy? Or just a rebellious sabbatical?

Tune in as we explore:

- Why some Singaporeans are quietly “rebasing” overseas

- The hidden cost of working in Singapore

- What freedom really looks like after a layoff

- How geo-arbitrage could be the next smart money move

- And... is it really betrayal to leave Singapore?

Shao doesn’t hold back—whether he’s laughing off the haters or revealing how a monthly lease and Grab rides replaced his CBD commute. If you’ve ever wondered, “Could I leave Singapore too?” —this episode will make you rethink what’s possible.

Is rebasing a betrayal or a smart financial play?

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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

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03:32 - Do you still like Singapore?

11:00 - Why did you choose this destination over others?

18:13 - How can Singaporeans leverage their advantages when considering life abroad?

23:04 - You’ve shared cost comparisons, but what’s your full monthly expense?

33:34 - How has your view of freedom evolved since leaving corporate life?

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Welcome to your new source of financial knowledge at The Financial Coconut! Join us and take control of your financial future and live your best life, financially wise.

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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.

Help us get to know you better: http://bit.ly/thefinancialcoconut-survey

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is the "safest bet" in investing actually... risky? What if your blue chips aren’t as stable as you think?

Dive into the high-stakes world of blue chip stocks with three investing heavyweights:

- Willie Keng, Founder of Dividend Titan

- Chuin Ting Weber, CFP, CFA, CAIA, CEO & CIO, MoneyOwl

- Kelwin Li, Principal Investment Specialist, Singapore Humble Stock

Expect a dynamic discussion on:

- Singapore vs. Global Blue Chips: Why local giants like DBS and Singtel might not be your retirement heroes.

- Dividend Traps: The psychological allure of dividends—and when they’re a “false sense of security.”

- Warren Buffett’s Ghost: How Coca-Cola’s 50-year win still shapes today’s strategies (and why most investors get it wrong).

- AI & Quantum Computing: The silent killers reshaping blue chips—are Singapore’s big players adapting fast enough?

Are blue chip stocks the key to long-term wealth, or is it time to rethink their role in your strategy? Tune in to find out!

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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

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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: About TFC

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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.

Help us get to know you better: http://bit.ly/thefinancialcoconut-survey

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