9 E-Wallets In Singapore That Let You Buy From Shops Hassle-Free

Aside from the explosion of rock music and big curls in the 80s, we were introduced to the cashless payment method called the General Interbank Recurring Order (GIRO). GIRO enabled its users to make convenient payments to billing organizations through their bank accounts. Since then, the digital cashless payment options have evolved dramatically. Nowadays, we can purchase items on online stores with a few taps of a button!

Let us get to know the nature and the examples of the e-wallets in Singapore.

HOW E-WALLETS WORK

Electronic wallets, e-wallets, digital wallets, or mobile wallets have taken over our lives in the previous months due to the effects of the global pandemic. E-wallets are virtual wallets, which are in collaboration with financial institutions (e.g., UOB or DBS), mobile service providers (e.g., SingTel), and international companies (e.g., Apple, Google, and Samsung). Many people have turned to cashless transactions to avoid carrying money or to avoid trips to the ATM.

E-wallets allow its users to store credit cards, debit cards, and loyalty cards into your device. Payments are made hassle-free as long as they are connected to your bank accounts or cards. Some e-wallets let you send and receive money through paperless transactions.

THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE USING AN E-WALLET

1. Which e-wallet do you want to get?

2. Does your preferred e-wallet have a maximum value that can be stored inside?

3. What is the expiry date for the money inside your potential e-wallet?

4. How much is the maximum value you can transfer out from an e-wallet per transaction?

5. Are there fees involved in top-up and other services?

POPULAR E-WALLETS IN SINGAPORE

1. Apple Pay

Apple Pay handles secure payment transactions between contactless terminals and Apple iOS devices. It can be used in 7-Eleven, Breadtalk, Giant, FairPrice, Uniqlo, and so much more.

2. SingTel Dash

Dash allows you to top-up your Singtel prepaid account or other Dash accounts to pay partner merchants in Singapore, Thailand, and Visa payWave partner merchants worldwide. You may pay online purchases through the Dash Visa Virtual Account and transfer funds within Singapore and to India, Indonesia, Philippines, China, Myanmar, and Bangladesh.

3. GrabPay

As the name suggests, GrabPay can be used to pay for Grab rides, GrabFood deliveries, and selected merchants with the GrabPay QR code. You can also use it with the GrabPay Card where MasterCard is accepted.

4. FavePay

FavePay is a quick and easy way to pay your favorite merchants and get instant cashback. FavePay accepts debit or credit cards (e.g., Visa, MasterCard, and American Express), GrabPay, Paypal, Boost Payment, and Air Asia Big Points. You can use the FavePay for selected merchants with the FavePay QR code.

5. AliPay

AliPay is a global payment platform with over 400 million users around the world. It is backed by the Chinese tech giant Alibaba and uses advanced encryption technology to ensure personal information and online payments are secured. It can be used to cover payments to ComfortDelGro and Prime taxis, Resorts World Sentosa, Metro, Singapore Zoo, Universal Studios, and more.

6. Google Pay

Google Pay is an online payment system developed by Google. It enables its users to pay for transactions with Android devices in-store and on supported websites. You can use it in-store at more than 80,000 checkout counters such as Cheers, Cold Storage, 7-Eleven, NTUC, McDonald’s, and Uniqlo.

7. DBS PayLah!

DBS PayLah! is a personal virtual wallet, which allows you to perform transactions such as Scan and Pay (NETS), funds transfer, QR Code payments, online purchases, and bill payments on-the-go. Discover its functions through the DBS PayLah! app.

8. NETSPay

NETSPay enables you to register your POSB/DBS ATM Card digitally. Once you have stored your cards, you may leave it at home and start paying with your smartphone. You can use this digital wallet to pay selected merchants in Singapore and Alipay Connect-enabled merchants in Japan.

9. EZ-Link Wallet

EZ-Link Wallet is personal mobile wallet within the EZ-Link app. You can use it to make payments conveniently at retail outlets domestically and overseas by scanning a QR Code or at an Alipay Connect-enabled merchant. Moreover, you can earn EZ-Link Rewards points for your transactions.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Use these information to make thoughtful decisions when it comes to your e-wallet and online payment transactions.

Sources: 1 & 2

Read More...

COVID-19 times – Can I not key my NETS ATM PIN?

Good ol’ NETS. What immediately comes to mind when we think about NETS is keying your ATM PIN, Singapore’s very own payment mode which we grew up with and is still an essential part of our lives today. NETS and PIN (aka NETS Pin) has become synonymous with what the brand has to offer – we see it in use everywhere we go, from supermarkets to prata shops and departmental stores.

But herein lies a conundrum: most of us do not know much else about NETS beyond NETS Pin. NETS actually has a variety of cashless payment modes such as eNETS, NETS FlashPay, NETS QR and NETS Contactless ATM card to name a few. Today we’ll be talking about NETS Contactless ATM card, which makes retail purchases a breeze during checkout.

What is NETS Contactless ATM card?

As the name suggests, NETS Contactless ATM card allows you to go contactless and tap your ATM card for purchases under S$100 instead of entering your card PIN during payments. It’s fast, seamless, and secure — every contactless card contains a highly sophisticated chip which performs a wide range of functions to maintain the card’s security, and can interact safely with a contactless terminal.

NETS Contactless ATM card is accessible to the majority of residents in Singapore as it’s essentially your ATM card with an added contactless payment function. Tap away using your contactless card without having to worry about tracking your expenditure or incurring late payment charges since payment is directly debited from your bank account.

How do I identify a NETS Contactless ATM card?

  • Step 1: Reach for your purse or wallet and grab your ATM card
  • Step 2: Make sure you grab one from DBS, OCBC, POSB, UOB, HSBC or Maybank
  • Step 3: Look for the NETS tap icon on the face of the card

For DBS/POSB, OCBC and UOB, only the above cards are NETS tap-enabled.

For HSBC & Maybank, NETS Tap icon is located at the back of the card.

Where can I get a NETS Contactless ATM card?

Don’t see the NETS tap icon on your ATM card? You can upgrade to a NETS tap-enabled ATM card by visiting any branch from the participating banks namely DBS/POSB, UOB, OCBC, HSBC and Maybank.

NETS Contactless ATM Card – the one card for your ATM, retail and transit needs.

Enter the wonderful world of cashless payment — from making cash withdrawals at the ATM to making payment at the supermarket, your NETS tap-enabled ATM card is the card to rule them all. What’s more, with a SimplyGo account, it can be used for your transit needs too! Save the hassle of queuing to top up your card and have your travel and fare history at the tip of your fingers.

Who knew commuting could be this easy-breezy?

Do all merchants accept NETS tap payments?

If a merchant accepts NETS, it’s likely that NETS tap payments will be welcomed as well. After all, NETS has more than 120,000 acceptance points islandwide. To be safe, just check in with the merchant before making payment! Supermarkets such as NTUC FairPrice, Sheng Siong, Giant, Cold Storage, and health & beauty retailers such as Watsons and Guardian all accept NETS tap payments. Start enjoying the joy of seamless and secure checkouts today!

Tap to Pay and Win $50 Every Month

What’s more, from now to 31 December 2020, tap to pay with your NETS Contactless ATM card and stand to win $50 every month! Simply spend $30 and be automatically enrolled into the draw.

Bonus: Are you a NETS merchant? Look here!

Hi there, familiar one! Curious to ascertain if your NETS terminal accepts NETS tap payments? You might not be aware of it, but most of our terminals are already embedded with the NETS tap function. Look out for the NETS tap logo on your terminal and have your customers tap their NETS Contactless ATM cards. The payment process and transaction fees are the same as NETS Pin. It’s that simple!

If your NETS terminal doesn’t have a NETS tap icon, it’s time to upgrade it! Contact NETS at [email protected] to get a complimentary terminal/software upgrade or for any queries you might have.

Pssst: For new merchants, you will also enjoy a 3-month subscription fee waiver when you apply for NETS POS terminal online before 31 December 2020!

Read More...

Singapore Will Cease Issuing S$1,000 Notes Next Year

This month, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) announced that it plans to discontinue the issuance of the S$1,000 notes from January 1, 2021. A limited quantity of this note will be made available each month from now until December 2020.

How will this affect you? What are the implications of this decision?

#1: SAFETY MEASURE TO REDUCE THE MONEY LAUNDERING RISKS

According to MAS, this is a pre-emptive measure to mitigate the higher money laundering and terrorism financing risks associated with large denomination notes. Large denomination notes allow people to carry significant values of money anonymously. The anonymity attached to these notes can be used to facilitate money laundering and other illegal activities.

#2: ELECTRONIC PAYMENTS ARE HIGHLY ENCOURAGED

To reduce your health and financial risks, it is best to use electronic payments whenever possible. MAS encouraged the use of electronic payments. Moreover, National University of Singapore’s Associate Professor and CGIO director Lawrence Loh highlighted that electronic payment systems are more secure than cash, despite the cyber-risks associated with online payments.

He said that: “You are able to secure two things with e-payments. Firstly, in terms of technical security, you can trace where your money is going, and secondly, you have physical security because you don’t have to carry large amounts of cash.”

#3: EXISTING S$1,000 NOTES IN CIRCULATION WILL REMAIN LEGAL TENDER

According to MAS, existing S$1,000 notes in circulation can still be used as a means of payment. They will continue to remain legal tender and can be used by the banks. To adapt to the upcoming demands of other denominations (particularly the S$100 note), MAS will make sufficient quantities of other denominations available.

#4: THE SELLING PRICE OF THE S$1,000 NOTE WILL LIKELY INCREASE

Currency collectors and dealers acknowledged that the selling price of the S$1,000 note will likely increase due to the limited supply of this note in the upcoming year. However, the currency dealers and collectors interviewed by TODAY have predicted that it will not increase dramatically.

You see, most people gravitate towards collecting notes of smaller denominations. For instance, a S$1,000 note from the orchid series (issued from 1967 to 1976) is worth around S$2,000. In contrast, a bundle of 1,000 S$1 notes from the same series is worth about S$12,000. It is amazing how these items have a S$10,000 difference in its selling prices!

#5: THIS MOVE IS ALIGNED WITH INTERNATIONAL NORMS

Renowned economists, including those from the International Monetary Fund, have advocated the phasing out of notes with large denominations to deter financial crimes such as corruption and tax evasion. This move by MAS is aligned with the international norms. For instance, European authorities stopped the printing of the 500-euro banknote last year.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

Read More...

6 Storage Solutions For Small Spaces

As we celebrate the 2020 Singles’ Day (11.11) in Singapore, more and more retailers have converted their promotions into the e-commerce platform. According to The Straits Times report, this year’s 11.11 sales will most likely shatter the 2019’s 11.11 sales record.

Physical stores in Singapore, such as Isetan and Marks & Spencer, have started selling their products online through Lazada. Metro, will also be joining Lazada’s 11.11 promotions this year. I know it is tempting to purchase items today due to the good deals. However, being mindful is more important that giving in to your impulse purchases.

If purchasing storage items are necessary for your home, you may consider these storage ideas and other inexpensive alternatives to decorate your small space.

#1: MAXIMIZE THE SPACE BEHIND THE DOOR

For flats with tiny laundry areas, you may take advantage of the storage space behind the door. Use stick-on hooks or over-the-door racks to keep your laundry supplies and accessories. You may also mount a hook rack, if you are looking for a long-term solution.

#2: USE PEGBOARDS FOR MULTIPLE PURPOSES

From cubby holder to tool organizer, pegboards have multiple uses in one’s home. Simply mount a pegboard above your desk and use hooks or zip ties to attach your art materials and other items.

Image Credits: familyhandyman.com

Most pegboards come in two colors – white and brown. Dress it up by rolling a coat of paint with a gloss or semi-gloss finish. Remember to apply light coats to avoid clogging up the holes. You can get a 36×56 cm pegboard for S$15 at IKEA Singapore.

#3: PURCHASE AN OTTOMAN STORAGE

Investing your money on an ottoman storage can help you store unnecessary items scattered around your living area. You may either purchase a new one or revamp an old one. Aside from adding a functional furniture and a dash of glamour to your space, an ottoman storage will keep the clutter out of sight.

Lazada Singapore offers ottoman storages such as this fabric option, which retails for S$13.86.

#4: ADD A MAGIC MIRROR

Adding a mirror to your space gives an illusion of a bigger and a brighter room. If you have a blank wall space on your flat, take advantage of it with a full-length mirror. Max out the space on a small entryway by adding the mirror without the need to add a bench.

You can get a long mirror an IKEA for as low as S$7.90.

#5: CONSIDER A FLOATING WORKSPACE

Instead of filling up a cramped space with bulky tables and dressers, you may opt for floating shelves and cabinets. They can store your needs without occupying an overwhelming amount of space.

IKEA Singapore sells the  EKBY ALEX for S$89. For corners and short walls that can be hard to utilize, you may use wall-hung shelves and cabinets like EKBY ALEX. Pull up a chair underneath and you are ready to go!

#6: KEEP YOUR SHOES IN ONE PLACE

The abundance of the shoes your family owns may cause a major headache when you have a small space. Do not fret! Use your creativity to tuck away your shoes in a tidy manner. You can either purchase a dresser with pull-out drawer or a shoe hanger. These will provide extra surface area for other necessary furniture in your home.

You can grab a 24-pocket hanger for your shoes in Lazada Singapore for only S$15.20. Look for other options to reap the best value for your money.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

Read More...

7 things you need to know about the Singapore – Hong Kong air travel bubble starting on Nov 22

A-couple-walk-on-Avenue-of-Stars-with-the-Hong-Kong-island-skyline-on-the-background

Apart from it being a hectic 11.11 promotions-filled day, out comes a piece of excellent news for people who are dying to travel. After the announcement of the in-principle agreement to establish a bilateral air travel bubble mid-October, it’s finally coming to play.

Here are 7 things you need to know about the Singapore and Hong Kong air travel bubble starting on Nov 22 (Sunday).

#1: One flight per day for a start

There will only be a flight a day going into Singapore and Hong Kong. Also, expect a limit of up to only 200 passengers each way. A little too scarce? Fret not. The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) said that from Dec 7, there would be an increase to two flights a day.

#2: Dedicated flights compulsory
Singapore Airlines

Image Credits: Business Traveller

As it’s probably a given, travellers keen to fly via the air travel bubble will have to hop on dedicated flights. But thankfully, there will be no restrictions on your travel purpose or itinerary. With that said, there isn’t the need to serve any quarantine or stay-home notice.

#3: COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests required

As the world battles the pandemic, the situation might quickly escalate. So even without a controlled itinerary, COVID-19 PCR tests are required. You must test negative within 72 hours before your scheduled departure time.

#4: Take your PCR test at least seven days before departure

Suppose you’re departing from Singapore, you will need a confirmed flight ticket to Hong Kong before applying for approval to take the PCR test. And yes, you have to do it at least seven days before your scheduled departure date.

If you think it’s a hassle to seek approval, then you might want to arrange to travel from Dec 1. By then, you won’t need to apply for approval to take the test. According to the Ministry of Health (MOH) on Tuesday (Nov 10), individuals will be able to get tested at approved clinics and providers.

#5: Cooperate to take another COVID-19 test at Hong Kong
Hong Kong International Airport

Image Credits: Time Magazine

Upon reaching Hong Kong International Airport, you will take another COVID-19 test. Until you’ve received your negative test results, your movement will be restricted to only within the airport grounds.

#6: Upon testing positive for COVID-19

Should the unfortunate situation happens, COVID-19 positive travellers will have to bear the full cost of any medical treatment. Of course, this is subjected to prevailing medical and healthcare policies in the respective countries.

#7: Possible suspension of the air travel bubble

While arrangements are in place, there are still chances of a suspension of the air travel bubble. Specifically, if the weekly average number of unlinked COVID-19 cases is more than five in either country. When that happens, the air travel bubble will be deferred for two weeks.

Transport Minister Ong Ye Kung said, “The Singapore-Hong Kong Air Travel Bubble enables us to achieve two objectives at the same time – open up our borders in a controlled manner while maintaining safety in our societies.”

“While we may be starting small, this is an important step forward. I have no doubt both Singapore and Hong Kong will cooperate fully to make this scheme work.”

singapore-hong-kong-travel-bubble-graphic

Image Credits: CNA

Read More...