We’ve all seen it, or maybe even done it ourselves. The brilliant engineer who can solve complex problems but has no retirement plan. The savvy marketing manager who understands consumer psychology but is drowning in credit card debt. The university professor who invests in a “guaranteed” get-rich-quick scheme they heard about from a friend. How …
Managing money is a challenge for many Malaysians. Despite living in a rapidly developing economy, a large portion of the population struggles with debt, low savings, and financial insecurity. But why does this happen, and what can be done to improve the situation? Let us explore the key reasons why Malaysians face financial difficulties and …
The recent reduction in Malaysia’s Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) by 0.25% is more than just a headline—it directly affects your loans, savings, investments, and financial future. Whether you’re a homeowner, an investor, or simply trying to grow your savings, understanding these changes can help you make smarter financial decisions. Let’s break it down. 1. Lower …
Surviving solely on your Employees Provident Fund (EPF) in Malaysia is possible, but it depends on several factors, including your savings, lifestyle, and retirement strategy. Let’s break it down with a case study. Case Study: Can a Malaysian Retire on EPF Alone? Assumptions: Scenario 1: Withdrawing EPF as a Lump Sum If you withdraw RM500,000 …
As our parents age, many of us step into the role of financial caregivers—balancing their needs with our own financial goals. In Malaysia, where family ties are strong, supporting aging parents is both a cultural expectation and a personal responsibility. But how can you do this without straining your own finances? Here’s a practical guide …
Saving money is a common challenge for many Malaysians. Despite good intentions, people often find themselves living paycheck-to-paycheck, struggling with debt, or unable to build a safety net for the future. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—but the good news is, with the right strategies (and a little professional guidance), you can take control …
How often have you hesitated to ask a friend for money they owe you? Or felt awkward discussing salaries with colleagues? In many cultures—especially in Southeast Asia—the concept of malu (shame or embarrassment) surrounds money talk, making it a sensitive topic. This reluctance can lead to financial mismanagement, debt, and even strained relationships. But what …
Many Malaysians try to manage their finances alone—only to realize too late that small mistakes can lead to big financial setbacks. If you’re handling your own money without a clear strategy, you might be risking your future wealth without even realising it. Here are the top DIY financial planning mistakes we see—and how working with …
The Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) is a key interest rate set by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), influencing borrowing costs, savings returns, and overall economic activity. For Malaysians, changes in the OPR can have a direct impact on mortgages, loans, investments, and financial planning strategies. What is the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR)? The OPR is the …
“Risk is not volatility. Risk is the permanent loss of capital.” This simple yet profound distinction by Howard Marks reshapes how we think about risk management. Many people conflate risk with short-term price swings—volatility—but true risk is far more consequential. The Misconception of Risk as Volatility The stock market goes up and down daily. Headlines …
