Lessons I learn when I turn 49+1

 “Getting old is like climbing a mountain; you get a little out of breath, but the view is much better!” – Ingrid Bergman As I stand on the precipice of my 50th year, a profound sense of introspection washes over me, acknowledging the undeniable passage of time and the nearing eventuality… Continue Reading

My USD portfolio performance in 2025

“Our favorite holding period is forever.” – Warren Buffett Since 2020, my blog has chronicled my investment philosophy, which centers on a long-term approach, particularly with Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs). My strategy is built on the conviction that these assets, held over extended periods, are key to achieving financial independence…. Continue Reading

Your background doesn’t define your future

person riding kayak

“Your background and circumstances may have influenced who you are, but you are responsible for who you become”. Darren Hardy Let me tell you about a common scenario. It might make you feel that you are actually not that  bad.  Globally, in 2024, a significant portion of the population –… Continue Reading

We prefer a reassuring lie than an inconvenient truth in life

gray rolled asphalt road under cloudy sky

“Far more money has been lost by investors trying to anticipate corrections, than lost in the corrections themselves.” Peter Lynch Just as in life, the world of investing is ripe with examples of how readily we embrace comforting narratives over harsh realities. This phenomenon is particularly potent when it comes… Continue Reading

The most fearful thing in life is illness, not death

man person people old

“Can I order a replacement body, please? This one is constantly malfunctioning.” For those familiar with my blog, I am nearing retirement, scheduled for October 2025. Through consistent monthly ETF investments, a diversified portfolio of Singaporean bank and REIT counters, and diligent contributions to EPF and ASM, I have successfully… Continue Reading

Ignore the noise and be calm

How to handle stress in life?

” Don’t pay attention to the daily noise. Stay the course.” Jack Bogle The ongoing trade war between the U.S. and other nations, particularly China, undoubtedly carries significant global economic consequences that will likely affect everyone financially. However, as I grow older, I’ve learned the value of focusing my energy… Continue Reading

Top 30 Malaysia Investment Blogs 

“You only have to do a very few things right in your life so long as you don’t do too many things wrong.” -Warren Buffett When I first embarked on this blog during the tumultuous period of the Covid-19 pandemic, my intentions were straightforward and heartfelt. I yearned to create… Continue Reading

Why do I top up my ASM3?

a person holding a coin

A wise person should have money in their head, but not in their heart. –Jonathan Swift In my previous discussions on investment options, I’ve highlighted the benefits of EPF and ASMs, particularly emphasizing the attractive dividend yields of the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) compared to Amanah Saham Malaysia (ASM) in recent… Continue Reading

Lessons that 2024 has taught me

“Life is a succession of lessons which must be lived to be understood.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson As the curtain falls on 2024, I find myself in the final act of my professional journey, with retirement less than 300 days away. The imminence of my 50th birthday in 2025 has prompted… Continue Reading

How much money do you need to retire in Malaysia and Singapore?

“Retirement is like a long vacation in Las Vegas. The goal is to enjoy it the fullest, but not so fully that you run out of money.” – Jonathan Clements The amount of money needed for a comfortable retirement is a subject of much debate and varies significantly based on… Continue Reading