Growth function

The Irony of Liquidity: Are Your Emergency Fund and ASB Holding You Back?

If I were to ask you about your financial safety nets, what would you say? For most of us, the answer is almost automatic: “I have an emergency fund” and “I save in ASB or other ASNB fixed price funds”. And you know what? That’s fantastic. Having an emergency fund and investing in ASNB fixed price funds …

Navigating Financial Crossroads: A Framework for Clarity, Not Confusion

You’ve worked hard, saved diligently, and now you’re facing a financial decision that feels monumental. The money is sitting in your account, and two powerful, competing goals are vying for it. These aren’t simple math problems. They are deeply personal crossroads where logic meets emotion, and short-term desires clash with long-term dreams. The anxiety comes …

Voluntary EPF Contributions: Smart Move or Money Trap?

The Employees Provident Fund (EPF) is a retirement savings scheme designed to help employees build a financial cushion for their future. While mandatory contributions are deducted from your salary, you also have the option to make voluntary EPF contributions—but is it worth it? In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of voluntary EPF contributions to help …

Can You Retire Early in Malaysia? A Realistic Guide for Malaysians Pursuing FIRE

Dreaming of early retirement? As Malaysians, we’re lucky to live in a country with affordable living costs, making Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) an achievable goal. But how much do you really need? Let’s break it down. 1. Monthly Living Costs for Early Retirement Here’s what you can expect to spend monthly: Expense Budget (RM) Housing …

Why Saving Money Feels So Hard (And How to Make It Easier)

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 …

Investment Portfolio Construction: No One-Size-Fits-All

Constructing an investment portfolio requires careful planning based on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon. Here’s a structured approach to building a diversified investment portfolio in Malaysia: 1. Define Your Investment Goals 2. Assess Your Risk Tolerance 3. Asset Allocation A well-diversified portfolio in Malaysia may include: A. Equities (Stocks) B. Fixed Income …

EPF Dividend 2024

The Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) has declared its dividend for 2024. The rate for conventional savings is 6.30% (2023: 5.50%). It is the same (2023: 5.40%) for Simpanan Shariah. This is the first time that both types of accounts having the same dividend rate. This dividend rate is better than what I expected. Dividend history …