The Singapore dollar (SGD) has surged to an all-time high against the Malaysian ringgit (MYR), crossing the 3.57 mark as of 20 February 2024 at 9:43 PM. (GMT+8)
As at time of writing, the Singapore dollar is trading at RM3.5731.
Source: Google Finance
For Malaysia, the continued weakness in its exports has been a significant concern. This downturn in export performance can be linked to sluggish global demand and competitive pressures, which directly impact the country’s trade balance and, consequently, the value of its currency.
Additionally, “external factors” such as the rate hikes by the United States Federal Reserve have exerted pressure on emerging market currencies, including the Malaysian ringgit. These rate increases tend to attract investors towards US-denominated assets, leading to a depreciation of other currencies. Geopolitical concerns and uncertainties regarding China’s economic prospects further contribute to the volatile global economic environment, affecting investor sentiment and causing fluctuations in currency values.
In contrast, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), has maintained its monetary policy unchanged, continuing its tight stance as the city-state grapples with persistent inflation. Unlike most countries where central banks adjust interest rates to influence economic activity, Singapore’s monetary policy is primarily centered on managing the exchange rate. The MAS allows the Singapore dollar to appreciate or depreciate against the currencies of its major trading partners within an undisclosed band. This strategy aims to stabilize prices and maintain competitiveness, thereby directly influencing the value of the Singapore dollar.
To commemorate the 50th anniversary of Hello Kitty, McDonald’s has launched an exclusive line up of Hello Kitty plush toys. Released today, on February 15, 2024, these plush toys could be acquired for a $9.90 with the purchase of an Extra Value Meal, Feast, 2x Value Meal, or Family Meal, subject to a limit of two sets per customer.
Within hours of the launch, scalpers took to Carousel, a popular online marketplace, to offer the plush sets at a staggering markup. Priced at $60 a pair, the resale value represents a significant increase over the original purchase price.
That is a markup for an eye-watering 506.06%!
In another listing, another seller has listed 4 sets for $160.
Approaching the milestone of 30 often evokes a mix of emotions, including anxiety about stepping into full-fledged adulthood. However, reaching this milestone actually signifies a significant upturn in various aspects of life, especially financially.
From enhanced independence to valuable government subsidies, here are 7 financial benefits awaiting individuals hitting the 30 mark in Singapore.
EMBRACING FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE
While the support of parents is undoubtedly cherished, transitioning to financial self-sufficiency is crucial. By your 30s, with a stable income in place, it’s time to bid farewell to dependency on parental finances.
This includes taking charge of personal expenses such as meals, bills, and travel costs. Assert your independence graciously, freeing yourself from the chains of reliance.
SECURE RETIREMENT PLANNING
Entering your 30s often coincides with a newfound discipline in managing finances, steering away from impulsive spending towards long-term financial goals, notably retirement.
With a robust retirement savings strategy apart from your CPF, which may involve diversifying investments, exploring supplementary income streams, and securing retirement policies, you lay the groundwork for realizing your aspirations in the future.
ENHANCED FINANCIAL LITERACY
Years of earning experience equip you with a deeper understanding of financial concepts like insurance, investments, and interest rates.
Armed with this knowledge, you can navigate financial decisions more confidently, from budgeting effectively to optimizing savings and investments. This financial preparedness ensures you’re equipped for the various life stages that lie ahead.
QUALITY SOCIAL CONNECTIONS
As you approach 30, you’ve likely curated a more refined social circle, having distanced yourself from toxic relationships.
Image Credits: unsplash.com
This streamlined network means fewer obligatory social engagements and a focus on nurturing meaningful connections with those who genuinely care. You would need trusted people to help you make significant financial choices. With reduced drama and authentic relationships, your 30s offer a more fulfilling social landscape.
RENEWED IC
Turning 30 in Singapore marks a symbolic transition as you bid adieu to the youthful snapshot on your identity card (IC). Re-registering for a new IC signifies a step into a new phase of adulthood, ensuring your identification remains current for essential activities like voting and accessing government services.
FREE HPV SCREENINGS FOR WOMEN
Women reaching the age of 30 in Singapore enjoy the advantage of complimentary HPV screenings at designated clinics, facilitating early detection of potential health issues. Get a free HPV Screening at the Singapore Cancer Society Clinic in Bishan. Test results will be available within 4-6 weeks, and the clinic will schedule follow-up medical appointments if you test positive.
Considering the connection between HPV and cervical cancer, regular screenings are crucial for safeguarding your health and well-being.
ACCESS TO FREE SKILLSFUTURE COURSES
Singaporeans aged 25 and above are entitled to SkillsFuture credits, with an initial allocation of S$500 as well as a one-time top-up of S$500, valid until December 31, 2025.
Leveraging these credits for courses in diverse fields such as career advancement, digital literacy, and entrepreneurship empowers you to upskill and seize new opportunities in the evolving job market. Tapping into these resources early is advantageous for personal and professional development.
Image Credits: unsplash.com
By embracing these financial benefits as you cross the threshold into your 30s in Singapore, you lay a solid foundation for continued growth and prosperity in various aspects of life. Cheers to being thirty and thriving!
As the Lunar New Year festivities fade into memories, the rush of Valentine’s Day preparations is upon us. If you’re among the early birds who meticulously plan for this day of love, hats off to you!
But if you find yourself in the “Wait, Valentine’s Day is tomorrow?” category, fret not—you still have time to make it special. Whether you’re seeking the perfect present for a dear friend or a sweet surprise for your new flame, these last-minute gift ideas will help you express your affection with thoughtfulness and care.
FOR THE MELODY MAKER
If your loved one is a music enthusiast, consider gifting them the second-gen AirPods, available at a discount of 20% (S$159) at Courts. These wireless earbuds provide quick access to Siri and boast a range of convenient features. Alternatively, the second-gen AirPods Pro offer enhanced sound quality and noise cancellation, making them a perfect choice for audiophiles. Find them at Courts for a discounted price of S$325.
Image Credits: unsplash.com
Imagine the joy on their face as they immerse themselves in their favorite tunes, thanks to your thoughtful gift!
FOR THE CREATIVE SOUL
Express your love through art with a blank sketchbook from Popular Bookstore. Fill its pages with heartfelt words and cherished memories, creating a personalized gift that speaks volumes. Available for as low as S$8.70, this simple yet meaningful gesture is sure to touch their heart.
Pouring your emotions onto paper, you create a unique masterpiece that reflects the depth of your feelings.
FOR THE SWEET TOOTH
Indulge in decadent delights with ANGELINA’s macarons. Treat your sweetheart to a box of assorted flavors, each bite a symphony of sweetness and delight. Available in various sizes, these delectable treats are sure to sweeten your Valentine’s Day celebration. Order online or visit the ANGELINA store at MBS. Price starts at S$13 for a box of 4.
Share a moment of sweetness as you savor each macaron together in an at-home romantic dinner, creating memories as delightful as the flavors themselves.
FOR THE TIMELESS ROMANTIC
Declare your love with the PUREST LOVE quartz movement watch by Swatch. Its elegant design, featuring a red sun-brushed dial adorned with symbols of love, makes it a timeless symbol of affection.
Image Credits: swatch.com
Priced at S$106, this watch is a simple yet meaningful gesture that will be treasured for years to come.
FOR THE MEMORY KEEPER
Capture precious moments together with the Fujifilm Instax Mini 12. This instant camera is perfect for creating tangible memories on the spot. With its user-friendly design and built-in selfie mode, it’s ideal for preserving your special moments in an instant. Get your very own Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 kit for S$179 at Harvey Norman.
Every click of the shutter captures a memory that will be cherished for years to come—a tangible reminder of your bond.
FOR THE PAMPERED PRINCESS
Spoil your beloved with luxurious self-care products from Lush. The With Love Gift Set, priced at S$59, includes a selection of indulgent bath and body treats designed to pamper and rejuvenate.
Whether they prefer a relaxing bath or a refreshing shower, this thoughtful gift is sure to make them feel cherished. So, grab a set at the nearest Lush store or purchase it online.
FOR THE BEAUTY CONNOISSEUR
Treat your beauty enthusiast to fragrant delights from Jo Malone or vibrant lipsticks from MAC Cosmetics. Whether it’s a signature scent or a red lip color, these beauty essentials are sure to delight. Choose from a range of options, including Jo Malone colognes starting from S$120 and MAC lipsticks starting from S$38.
The bestsellers of Jo Malone colognes include English Pear & Freesia Cologne, Lime Basil & Mandarin, and Honeysuckle & Davana. As for my personal favorites from MAC, I adore the Ruby Woo and Russian Red shades. These universally beautiful shades complement most skin tones perfectly.
FOR THE LOVER OF ELEGANCE
Elevate their style with exquisite jewelry pieces from Pearly Lustre. From elegant earrings to enchanting necklaces, their Valentine’s Day collection offers timeless pieces that reflect your love and admiration. Available online or at their flagship store at 313@Somerset, these stunning pieces are sure to capture their heart.
Image Credits: pearlylustre.com
This Valentine’s Day, let these thoughtful gifts serve as expressions of your love and appreciation, making your celebration truly memorable. Whether it’s a grand gesture or a simple token of affection, what matters most is the love that lies behind it.
Lunar New Year, also known as the Chinese New Year (CNY), marks the transition from the old to the entrance of good fortune in the new year.
In 2024, embrace the Year of the Dragon by celebrating strength, power, and success. Start by understanding its significance.
Significance of the Year of the Dragon
To truly appreciate each Lunar New Year, it’s essential to grasp the attributes of both the element and the animal.
With wood as the element for CNY 2024, we welcome growth, success, and the initial stage of development. Wood signifies humanity’s aspiration to achieve, progress, grow, and expand.
Image Credits: unsplash.com
The Year of the Dragon symbolizes health, strength, and good fortune, embodying natural leadership, charisma, and boundless enthusiasm for those born in this year.
Your Guide to Surviving this CNY 2024
PREPARE YOUR SPACE
As the festive season approaches, consider cleaning and decorating your home to optimize feng shui. This will help invite good luck, health, and prosperity throughout the year.
Feng Shui Teacher Anjie Cho emphasizes the importance of cleaning your front door, the “mouth of chi,” to welcome in new energy and enhance your connection with the world.
EMBRACE THE CHANGING SEASONS
On the first day of spring on the lunar calendar, open all your windows and doors for nine minutes, an auspicious number in Chinese culture.
Allow fresh air to flow through, dispelling stagnant energy and inviting new, revitalizing energies.
MASTER THE ART OF TOSSING
Enhance your participation in the CNY tradition of tossing yusheng by learning the art of lo hei.
Watch a video tutorial on the lo hei prosperity toss to confidently partake in this joyful activity.
DISCOVER LOCAL CELEBRATION SPOTS
Immerse yourself in the Lunar New Year festivities by exploring various events in Singapore.
Highlights include the Chinatown street light-up, River Hongbao, Chingay Parade, Dahlia Dreams at Gardens by the Bay, and more.
LOOK YOUR BEST
Symbolize a new start by dressing in new threads during the festive season.
Opt for bright colors or explore modern cheongsam and fashionable CNY clothes from brands like Mama & Misse, Shanghai Tang, Lark & Peony, and YeoMama.
IMPRESS WITH LUXE HAMPERS
Gift luxurious hampers filled with goodies from brands such as FNP SG, The Hamper Story, or Lady M, perfect for picky family members or those you want to impress.
RELAX WITH CNY ACTIVITIES
Take a breather after festive gatherings by indulging in a movie marathon with your favorite Chinese movies. Alternatively you can enjoy games like mahjong, baccarat, blackjack, or CNY trivia for a delightful time with loved ones.
