A policyholder sent the projection of his investment linked policy. I calculated the result as follows:
Annual premium: $2,160
Projected yield at end of 20 years:
Gross yield: 5% p.a.
Projected cash value: $47,400
Net yield: 0.9%
Reduction in yield: 4.1%
Projected yield at end of 20 years:
Gross yield: 9% p.a.
Projected cash value: $64,200
Net yield: 3.8%
Reduction in yield: 5.2%
The reduction in yield varies from 4.1% to 5.2%. This is excessive. The ILP is extremely costly and gives a poor return to the policyholder. The charges taken away from the policy are far too high.
If the policyholder buys a decreasing term assurance and invest the remaining savings in a low cost investment fund, the reduction in yield is likely to be 1.5%.
The difference in yield of 3% can give the policyholder about 35% more in cash value at the end of 20 years. Read this FAQ:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/savings.html
Lesson: Avoid high cost investment-linked plans. It gives a poor yield due to high charges.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Hoarding of rice
The leader of a neighbouring country said that the traders are hoarding rice, creating an artificial shortage leading to escalation in its price. This is making life hard for the ordinary people.
This is an example of the failure of the free market. It applies not only to the price of rice, but other essential commodities as well.
In Singapore, we are fortunate to have a co-operative in Singapore (i.e. NTUC Fairprice), that provides essential commodities based on its cost plus a margin to cover expenses and profit. This helps to moderate price increases.
This is an example of the failure of the free market. It applies not only to the price of rice, but other essential commodities as well.
In Singapore, we are fortunate to have a co-operative in Singapore (i.e. NTUC Fairprice), that provides essential commodities based on its cost plus a margin to cover expenses and profit. This helps to moderate price increases.
High cost of transportation
I read a report in a Jakarata newspaper that the cost of transportation in Indonesia is much higher than several neighbouring countries, such as Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam. (Singapore is not mentioned).
This high cost adds to the total business costs, and affects competitiveness of business in Indonesia.
This cost affects businesses in two ways:
a) Cost of transporting goods
b) Cost of workers getting to work.
Lesson: It is important to reduce transportation cost, to make an economy more competitive.
This high cost adds to the total business costs, and affects competitiveness of business in Indonesia.
This cost affects businesses in two ways:
a) Cost of transporting goods
b) Cost of workers getting to work.
Lesson: It is important to reduce transportation cost, to make an economy more competitive.
Gold Savings Deposit Account
Hi Mr. Tan,
I have been pondering whether to park some of my savings in a gold savings deposit account. I saw it being offered by a local bank. But there's an administrative fee (in grams of gold) as low as 0.12 gm per month or 0.25% p.a. on the highest balance per month, whichever is higher.
REPLY
Some people think that Gold has already gone up very high. If you invest in Gold, be aware about the risk that it may fall down to a lower level. However, if you hold this investment as part of a diversified portfolio, then it may be all right.
Apart from the administrative fee (which is quite low), you should also be aware that Gold does not earn any recurring income.
Some people prefer to buy shares of Gold mining companies as it produces an income. But they have to look at other factors, such as leverage and cost structure.
I have been pondering whether to park some of my savings in a gold savings deposit account. I saw it being offered by a local bank. But there's an administrative fee (in grams of gold) as low as 0.12 gm per month or 0.25% p.a. on the highest balance per month, whichever is higher.
REPLY
Some people think that Gold has already gone up very high. If you invest in Gold, be aware about the risk that it may fall down to a lower level. However, if you hold this investment as part of a diversified portfolio, then it may be all right.
Apart from the administrative fee (which is quite low), you should also be aware that Gold does not earn any recurring income.
Some people prefer to buy shares of Gold mining companies as it produces an income. But they have to look at other factors, such as leverage and cost structure.
Effect of deduction
Hi Mr. Tan
I purchased a ILP 10 mths ago. Based on the postings in your website so far, it seems like ILP is highly unrecommended. Now, I realize I didn't really understand the meaning of effect of deductions.
Based on the plan projected for me (below), after 25 yrs, will I get a decent return? i.e, if the return is good (9%), will I get a lump sum of 111700?
Another thing is my agent told me that at end of 25 years, I can actually stop putting in money and then use the bonus or dividends to pay and cont to earn? Is this true, so can I get the 417200 then? I am feeling quite lost, please help me, thanks.
REPLY
It is not realistic to expect a gross yield of 9% in the future. I suggest that you take the average between the yield of 5% and 9%.
More important, you should study the effect of deduction. If the deduction takes away 2.5% from the gross yield, then it is an expensive policy.
I purchased a ILP 10 mths ago. Based on the postings in your website so far, it seems like ILP is highly unrecommended. Now, I realize I didn't really understand the meaning of effect of deductions.
Based on the plan projected for me (below), after 25 yrs, will I get a decent return? i.e, if the return is good (9%), will I get a lump sum of 111700?
Another thing is my agent told me that at end of 25 years, I can actually stop putting in money and then use the bonus or dividends to pay and cont to earn? Is this true, so can I get the 417200 then? I am feeling quite lost, please help me, thanks.
REPLY
It is not realistic to expect a gross yield of 9% in the future. I suggest that you take the average between the yield of 5% and 9%.
More important, you should study the effect of deduction. If the deduction takes away 2.5% from the gross yield, then it is an expensive policy.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Term and critical illness
Hi Mr Tan,
I am one of many grateful (and faithful) readers of your blog. Thank you to much to being ever so obliging in answering our questions. I got a quote for a term policy as follows:
Sum Assured Term Yearly Premium
Term Basic 100,000 35 years 315.00
Disability 100,000 35 years 49.00
Crisis Cover 100,000 35 years 580.00
Crisis Waiver 12.05
However, I am not sure if I need the crisis cover and the disability riders. They cost more than the basic itself! My agent highlighted that death benefit would continue even though a claim had been made under crisis cover, so the cover becomes $200 000. Is this a necessary and fair quote?
REPLY
In my view, the critical illness premium should be about 1.5X of the term premium. I find the premium to be somewhat high (i.e. 1.8X). You do not need such a large amount of critical illness cover. Maybe, it is better to have $150,000 in Term and $50,000 in critical illness. You should also consider buying a decreasing term insurance, as the cost is reduced by more than 50%
I suggest that you should get a quote from another insurance company on the term and critical illness cover. You can contact them as follows:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/termd.html
I am one of many grateful (and faithful) readers of your blog. Thank you to much to being ever so obliging in answering our questions. I got a quote for a term policy as follows:
Sum Assured Term Yearly Premium
Term Basic 100,000 35 years 315.00
Disability 100,000 35 years 49.00
Crisis Cover 100,000 35 years 580.00
Crisis Waiver 12.05
I compared it to the benchmark rates on your site and found that the basic policy is very close to the benchmark rate.
However, I am not sure if I need the crisis cover and the disability riders. They cost more than the basic itself! My agent highlighted that death benefit would continue even though a claim had been made under crisis cover, so the cover becomes $200 000. Is this a necessary and fair quote?
REPLY
In my view, the critical illness premium should be about 1.5X of the term premium. I find the premium to be somewhat high (i.e. 1.8X). You do not need such a large amount of critical illness cover. Maybe, it is better to have $150,000 in Term and $50,000 in critical illness. You should also consider buying a decreasing term insurance, as the cost is reduced by more than 50%
I suggest that you should get a quote from another insurance company on the term and critical illness cover. You can contact them as follows:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/termd.html
Insurance agents
Insurance agents play a useful role. They need to have good value products that can sell easily. They do not mind earning a modest rate of commission, if it is commensurate with the effort. To bring down the cost of insurance, we have to reduce the time taken by the agent to sell the insurance. We need to improve productivity.
CPF Dependent Protection Scheme
Dear Mr Tan,
DPS (Dependants' Protection Scheme) is an optional term insurance which covers CPF members for a maximum sum assured of $46,000 up to age 60. Is this a good value term insurance to have ?
http://mycpf.cpf.gov.sg/Members/Gen-Info/FAQ/Insurance/INS-DPS.htm
The premium payable depends on your age at your last birthday. Premiums can be paid from your CPF Ordinary and/or Special Account(s). The yearly premiums, based on age and regardless of gender, are as follows:
Age(Last Birthday) YearlyPremium
34 years and below $ 36
35-39 years $ 48
40-44 years $ 84
45-49 years $144
50-54 years $228
55-59 years $260
REPLY
You can compare it with the benchmark premium rates shown in my website:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/benchmark.html
My quick comparision shows that the premium rate for DPS is quite attractive for the customer.
DPS (Dependants' Protection Scheme) is an optional term insurance which covers CPF members for a maximum sum assured of $46,000 up to age 60. Is this a good value term insurance to have ?
http://mycpf.cpf.gov.sg/Members/Gen-Info/FAQ/Insurance/INS-DPS.htm
The premium payable depends on your age at your last birthday. Premiums can be paid from your CPF Ordinary and/or Special Account(s). The yearly premiums, based on age and regardless of gender, are as follows:
Age(Last Birthday) YearlyPremium
34 years and below $ 36
35-39 years $ 48
40-44 years $ 84
45-49 years $144
50-54 years $228
55-59 years $260
REPLY
You can compare it with the benchmark premium rates shown in my website:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/benchmark.html
My quick comparision shows that the premium rate for DPS is quite attractive for the customer.
Inflated Third Party Claims
Dear Mr. Tan,
In April 2002, we received a letter from a lawyer asking my insurance company to pay $4,900 as my husband's car hit a taxi. Later, the sum escalated to $5,400. It was settled by the insurance company. I still could not believe that a small damage could cost so much money. Since then, I greatly feel that Singapore system had not been fair. Now, I read about more inflation claims. Isn't it ridiculous?
REPLY
I agree with you. I suspect that there must be at least 10,000 claims of this nature each year in Singapore. I hope that the public can write to the papers to complained about it Maybe, if there is protests, then the Government will act.
In April 2002, we received a letter from a lawyer asking my insurance company to pay $4,900 as my husband's car hit a taxi. Later, the sum escalated to $5,400. It was settled by the insurance company. I still could not believe that a small damage could cost so much money. Since then, I greatly feel that Singapore system had not been fair. Now, I read about more inflation claims. Isn't it ridiculous?
REPLY
I agree with you. I suspect that there must be at least 10,000 claims of this nature each year in Singapore. I hope that the public can write to the papers to complained about it Maybe, if there is protests, then the Government will act.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Confidence, Trust, Hope
SENT TO ME BY A FRIEND.
One day, the villagers decided to pray for rain. On the day of prayer, everyone gathered and only one boy came with an umbrella. That's CONFIDENCE.
When you throw a 1 year old baby in the air, he laughs because he knows you will catch him. That's TRUST.
Every night we go to bed, we're not sure that we'll get up tomorrow, but we still have many plans for the coming day. That's HOPE.
Have confidence, trust in God and never lose hope.
One day, the villagers decided to pray for rain. On the day of prayer, everyone gathered and only one boy came with an umbrella. That's CONFIDENCE.
When you throw a 1 year old baby in the air, he laughs because he knows you will catch him. That's TRUST.
Every night we go to bed, we're not sure that we'll get up tomorrow, but we still have many plans for the coming day. That's HOPE.
Have confidence, trust in God and never lose hope.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
FAQ: True cost of life insurance
1. Does a life insurance policy provide good value for a person to plan for the future?
Insurance agents like to sell endowment and whole life policies, including variations of these policies, to consumers as a way to plan for their future. These policies offer poor value to the consumer.
The typical cost of an endowment or whole life policy is a reduction of 4% to 4.5% in the yield.
If the long term investment yield is 7%, a reduction of 4.5% gives you a net yield of 2.5%. This net yield is unsatisfactory, as it is not likely to cover the rate of inflation. You need to aim for a higher yield.
If you select a low cost insurance fund, the reduction in yield should be only 1%. This allows you to get a net yield of 6%.
If you are investing for 20 years, a difference of 3.5% in the yield (i.e. 2.5% from a life insurance policy compared to 6% from a low cost product) accumulates to 44% at the end of 20 years.
If you invest for 30 years, the difference is 80%,
For example, instead of getting cash value of $100,000 at the end of 20 years from a whole life policy, you could get $144,000 (i.e. 44% more) by buying Term insurance and investing the remaining savings in a low cost investment fund.
2. Why does the life insurance policy cost so much, i.e. a reduction of 4.5% in yield?
The reduction in yield comprise of:
a) Upfront marketing cost 1%
b) Expense ratio and mortality 1.5%
c) Guarantee penalty 2%
Total 4.5%
The upfront marketing cost is incurred in the advertising, marketing and commission to the agent. This could amount to 2 years of your savings. It is an upfront charge and is taken away from your savings during the initial few years.
The expense ratio is the charge for investing your savings and administering your account. The mortality charge is for providing the death, accident or critical illness cover.
The guarantee penalty is the cost to the consumer of getting the guarantee in the life insurance policy. The insurance company has to invest a large proportion (about 70%) of the investments in low yielding bonds to provide the guarantee. This has a significant impact on the yield (compared to the yield that can be earned from a diversified equity fund).
3. How can I get a higher return for my long term savings?
You can get a higher return as follows:
a) Buy a Decreasing Term to provide the insurance cover
b) Invest the remainder of your savings in a low cost investment fund
c) Invest in the fund directly, to avoid the upfront marketing expense
The reduction in yield to provide the insurance cover and expense ratio is likely to be about 1%.
If the investment fund can earn 7%, you can get a net yield is about 6%.
4. Is it risky to invest in an equity fund?
If you are investing in a diversified investment fund over the long term, say 10 years or longer, the risk will be reduced considerably.
By investing in a diversified fund comprising of 30 or more good quality investments (e.g. the largest companies in the stock market), you are diversifying your risk. A few investments may turn bad over the years, but they will be more than compensated by the good investments in the fund.
If you are investing over the long term, you will be able to get an average return from the good and bad years. In a good year, you may be able to earn more than 20%. In a bad year, you can suffer a loss. Over the long term, you will be able to get an average market rate of return.
The average return from the stock market over the past 30 years is more than 10%. For the future, the return is likely to be lower (due to global economic factors and other reasons), but the average is still likely to be quite attractive. Many experts predict an average return of 6% to 8%.
5. I have already invested most of my savings in a several high cost life insurance policies. Is it advisable for me to terminate the policies and invest in a low cost investment fund now?
First, you have to find an insurance company that is able to provide you with low cost Decreasing Term insurance and in a low cost investment fund with no upfront charge.
If you switch your investment now, you can benefit from the following:
a) Lower expense ratio
b) Higher return from the investment fund (i.e. no guarantee penalty)
The difference in yield could be 2.5%. Over the next 20 years, you could earn 27% more.
You have already suffered the upfront cost (which could amount to two years of your savings), but it is better to cut loss now and recover your loss from the higher return in the future.
The potential higher yield from the investment fund is not guaranteed and comes with a higher risk (i.e. avoid the guarantee penalty).
In my view, this risk is reduced considerably through diversification and a long term time horizon. But, you have to understand the risk clearly, before you switch your investment from the life insurance policy.
6. Can you recommend an insurance company that can provide low cost insurance cover and a low cost investment fund?
I am now working as a consultant to a relatively new life insurance company. I hope that this new company will be able to offer these good value products towards later in 2008.
Tan Kin Lian
Insurance agents like to sell endowment and whole life policies, including variations of these policies, to consumers as a way to plan for their future. These policies offer poor value to the consumer.
The typical cost of an endowment or whole life policy is a reduction of 4% to 4.5% in the yield.
If the long term investment yield is 7%, a reduction of 4.5% gives you a net yield of 2.5%. This net yield is unsatisfactory, as it is not likely to cover the rate of inflation. You need to aim for a higher yield.
If you select a low cost insurance fund, the reduction in yield should be only 1%. This allows you to get a net yield of 6%.
If you are investing for 20 years, a difference of 3.5% in the yield (i.e. 2.5% from a life insurance policy compared to 6% from a low cost product) accumulates to 44% at the end of 20 years.
If you invest for 30 years, the difference is 80%,
For example, instead of getting cash value of $100,000 at the end of 20 years from a whole life policy, you could get $144,000 (i.e. 44% more) by buying Term insurance and investing the remaining savings in a low cost investment fund.
2. Why does the life insurance policy cost so much, i.e. a reduction of 4.5% in yield?
The reduction in yield comprise of:
a) Upfront marketing cost 1%
b) Expense ratio and mortality 1.5%
c) Guarantee penalty 2%
Total 4.5%
The upfront marketing cost is incurred in the advertising, marketing and commission to the agent. This could amount to 2 years of your savings. It is an upfront charge and is taken away from your savings during the initial few years.
The expense ratio is the charge for investing your savings and administering your account. The mortality charge is for providing the death, accident or critical illness cover.
The guarantee penalty is the cost to the consumer of getting the guarantee in the life insurance policy. The insurance company has to invest a large proportion (about 70%) of the investments in low yielding bonds to provide the guarantee. This has a significant impact on the yield (compared to the yield that can be earned from a diversified equity fund).
3. How can I get a higher return for my long term savings?
You can get a higher return as follows:
a) Buy a Decreasing Term to provide the insurance cover
b) Invest the remainder of your savings in a low cost investment fund
c) Invest in the fund directly, to avoid the upfront marketing expense
The reduction in yield to provide the insurance cover and expense ratio is likely to be about 1%.
If the investment fund can earn 7%, you can get a net yield is about 6%.
4. Is it risky to invest in an equity fund?
If you are investing in a diversified investment fund over the long term, say 10 years or longer, the risk will be reduced considerably.
By investing in a diversified fund comprising of 30 or more good quality investments (e.g. the largest companies in the stock market), you are diversifying your risk. A few investments may turn bad over the years, but they will be more than compensated by the good investments in the fund.
If you are investing over the long term, you will be able to get an average return from the good and bad years. In a good year, you may be able to earn more than 20%. In a bad year, you can suffer a loss. Over the long term, you will be able to get an average market rate of return.
The average return from the stock market over the past 30 years is more than 10%. For the future, the return is likely to be lower (due to global economic factors and other reasons), but the average is still likely to be quite attractive. Many experts predict an average return of 6% to 8%.
5. I have already invested most of my savings in a several high cost life insurance policies. Is it advisable for me to terminate the policies and invest in a low cost investment fund now?
First, you have to find an insurance company that is able to provide you with low cost Decreasing Term insurance and in a low cost investment fund with no upfront charge.
If you switch your investment now, you can benefit from the following:
a) Lower expense ratio
b) Higher return from the investment fund (i.e. no guarantee penalty)
The difference in yield could be 2.5%. Over the next 20 years, you could earn 27% more.
You have already suffered the upfront cost (which could amount to two years of your savings), but it is better to cut loss now and recover your loss from the higher return in the future.
The potential higher yield from the investment fund is not guaranteed and comes with a higher risk (i.e. avoid the guarantee penalty).
In my view, this risk is reduced considerably through diversification and a long term time horizon. But, you have to understand the risk clearly, before you switch your investment from the life insurance policy.
6. Can you recommend an insurance company that can provide low cost insurance cover and a low cost investment fund?
I am now working as a consultant to a relatively new life insurance company. I hope that this new company will be able to offer these good value products towards later in 2008.
Tan Kin Lian
Practical lesson in customer service
I waited a long time to be served at the check-in counter at Changi Airport.
I told the customer service officer, "Are you X? I waited an unusually long time for you to check-in the passenger in front of me. After that, you were chatting with your colleague at the next counter before you attended to me. I am angry at this slow service. I will be lodging a complaint."
X said, "The delay was caused by the system hang. I apologise". X then attended to me speedily, efficiently and courteously. His face light up when I said, "Thank you. I have decided not to lodge the complaint". I am sure that X had a practical lesson in customer service that he will remember for a long time.
Lesson: Never chat with a colleauge while at work. Pay attention to your customer.
I told the customer service officer, "Are you X? I waited an unusually long time for you to check-in the passenger in front of me. After that, you were chatting with your colleague at the next counter before you attended to me. I am angry at this slow service. I will be lodging a complaint."
X said, "The delay was caused by the system hang. I apologise". X then attended to me speedily, efficiently and courteously. His face light up when I said, "Thank you. I have decided not to lodge the complaint". I am sure that X had a practical lesson in customer service that he will remember for a long time.
Lesson: Never chat with a colleauge while at work. Pay attention to your customer.
Inflated injury claims
Dear Mr Tan
I assume you must have read the article in the Sunday Times on inflated car insurance claims. When you were at NTUC you implemented a rule whereby all car insurance policies at NTUC requires the insured to agree to use only workshops designated by NTUC. I believe that also covered all claims by 3rd parties. It was a good measure but not popular with many insurance companies who decided not to follow your footsteps. I wondered why.
It seemed that insurance companies when they met with 3rd party claims, they are very eager to settle the claim even when they are inflated. The excuse they give is that they do not wish to undergo a long legal process so it is easier to settle even if the claim is many times higher than what is really required to repair the car. Is this the case?
I have had experience of this nature before but the insurance company is very evasive when I question them. They are also very unwilling to disclose the amount the claim they have settled. Why is this so?
The end result is that I end up giving up my no claim bonus. Is there something we can do to nip this problem. I have a healthy suspicion that the insurance companies actually encourage this practise. Your views would be appreciated
REPLY
Here are my views. This is a difficult problem. It is difficult to solve.
The party that can solve it is the Government.They have to pass a law to make sure that people who cheat by inflating claims are severely dealt with. If the Government does not want to pass a law, then the insurance companies will continue to face difficulty in dealing with this matter. And the consumers will have to pay higher premiums.
I assume you must have read the article in the Sunday Times on inflated car insurance claims. When you were at NTUC you implemented a rule whereby all car insurance policies at NTUC requires the insured to agree to use only workshops designated by NTUC. I believe that also covered all claims by 3rd parties. It was a good measure but not popular with many insurance companies who decided not to follow your footsteps. I wondered why.
It seemed that insurance companies when they met with 3rd party claims, they are very eager to settle the claim even when they are inflated. The excuse they give is that they do not wish to undergo a long legal process so it is easier to settle even if the claim is many times higher than what is really required to repair the car. Is this the case?
I have had experience of this nature before but the insurance company is very evasive when I question them. They are also very unwilling to disclose the amount the claim they have settled. Why is this so?
The end result is that I end up giving up my no claim bonus. Is there something we can do to nip this problem. I have a healthy suspicion that the insurance companies actually encourage this practise. Your views would be appreciated
REPLY
Here are my views. This is a difficult problem. It is difficult to solve.
The party that can solve it is the Government.They have to pass a law to make sure that people who cheat by inflating claims are severely dealt with. If the Government does not want to pass a law, then the insurance companies will continue to face difficulty in dealing with this matter. And the consumers will have to pay higher premiums.
Travelling to Jakarta, April 2008
I will be in Jakarta for the next four days. I will return on Wed midnight. My posting to the blog will be less regular.
Goalkeeper to the blog
I have to act as goal-keeper to this blog.
There were regular comments from a few people attacking the following:
a) insurance agents in general
b) new products introduced by NTUC Income
c) the current management
I have to block many comments that fall into the following:
a) personal attacks
b) defamatory, e.g. accusing people of cheating, incompetence
c) vulgar, rude
I allow some comments to go through, if they appear to be fair, objective or substantiated.
To make my work easier, I suggest that you should send your e-mail to me giving the facts. I will post them, without disclosing your identity.
There were regular comments from a few people attacking the following:
a) insurance agents in general
b) new products introduced by NTUC Income
c) the current management
I have to block many comments that fall into the following:
a) personal attacks
b) defamatory, e.g. accusing people of cheating, incompetence
c) vulgar, rude
I allow some comments to go through, if they appear to be fair, objective or substantiated.
To make my work easier, I suggest that you should send your e-mail to me giving the facts. I will post them, without disclosing your identity.
Opportunities for growth and promotion
I am now a consultant to a relatively new life insurance company. This company sell life and health insurance directly to customers and corporte clients, using the internet, call center and worksite marketing. It will sell low cost investment funds later this year.
The company is interested to look for managers and executives for its sales and marketing team. We will use an innovative new marketing approach - create awareness, educate the customers and advice them on the suitable, good value products.
We are particularly interested in people who:
a) enjoy dealing with customers
b) like to try a innovative way of marketing
c) have a certificate or diploma in life and health insurance
d) enjoy success and achievement
The positions offer attractive salary and incentives, and good opportunity for growth and promotion.
If you are interested to learn more about this opportunity, send a brief resume by e-mail to kinlian@gmail.com
Please pass the word around to your friends, who may be interested to make a change of career.
The company is interested to look for managers and executives for its sales and marketing team. We will use an innovative new marketing approach - create awareness, educate the customers and advice them on the suitable, good value products.
We are particularly interested in people who:
a) enjoy dealing with customers
b) like to try a innovative way of marketing
c) have a certificate or diploma in life and health insurance
d) enjoy success and achievement
The positions offer attractive salary and incentives, and good opportunity for growth and promotion.
If you are interested to learn more about this opportunity, send a brief resume by e-mail to kinlian@gmail.com
Please pass the word around to your friends, who may be interested to make a change of career.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Avoid buying a private car
Dear Mr. Tan,
May I ask you whether it is a good time to buy a car now? As I had just came back from overseas lately. I found out that the COE had increased a lot. For the category below 1600cc, the COE price is $16930. Some people say it may hit $20000 for COE.
Do you think will the COE come down $12000 to $14000 in few months times As every things is increasing who will want to buy the car if COE keep increase. Please help me to answer my query.
REPLY
In my personal view, it is a bad time to buy a car any time. Although I I have a car, I prefer to keep it at home, and travel by MRT and bus.. Sometimes I take the taxi.
If you have to buy a car, you better get someone else to advise you on timing. I am not familiar with this matter.
May I ask you whether it is a good time to buy a car now? As I had just came back from overseas lately. I found out that the COE had increased a lot. For the category below 1600cc, the COE price is $16930. Some people say it may hit $20000 for COE.
Do you think will the COE come down $12000 to $14000 in few months times As every things is increasing who will want to buy the car if COE keep increase. Please help me to answer my query.
REPLY
In my personal view, it is a bad time to buy a car any time. Although I I have a car, I prefer to keep it at home, and travel by MRT and bus.. Sometimes I take the taxi.
If you have to buy a car, you better get someone else to advise you on timing. I am not familiar with this matter.
High price of rice
There are two letters in Today paper commenting on the high price of rice, its impact on the ordinary workers and the insensitive remarks by two politicians on this matter.
Here are my observations:
a) The increase in the price of rice, on its own, may appear to be bearable
b) But the prices of many other essentials have increased as well
c) Taxes and ERPs have also increased
d) The total impact of all the increases is large
It is not only the people on public assistance who cannot cope. Many workers or modest salary do not earn enough to meet their expenses. The recent increases is a big blow to their budget.
What is the solution? There are two possible approaches:
a) Price controls on essential products
b) Allowance for low income families
I agree with the approach adopted by the Government to provide assistance to low income families (rather than price controls). I believe that the assistance net should be widened to include more low income families who are affected by the hike in the cost of living.
Here are my observations:
a) The increase in the price of rice, on its own, may appear to be bearable
b) But the prices of many other essentials have increased as well
c) Taxes and ERPs have also increased
d) The total impact of all the increases is large
It is not only the people on public assistance who cannot cope. Many workers or modest salary do not earn enough to meet their expenses. The recent increases is a big blow to their budget.
What is the solution? There are two possible approaches:
a) Price controls on essential products
b) Allowance for low income families
I agree with the approach adopted by the Government to provide assistance to low income families (rather than price controls). I believe that the assistance net should be widened to include more low income families who are affected by the hike in the cost of living.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Are Bernanke's Hands Tied?
"Are Bernanke's Hands Tied? 8 Reasons the US May Be in Worse Trouble Than You Think "
http://www.currencytrading.net/2008/are-bernankes-hands-tied-8-reasons-the-us-may-be-in-worse-trouble-than-you-think/
http://www.currencytrading.net/2008/are-bernankes-hands-tied-8-reasons-the-us-may-be-in-worse-trouble-than-you-think/
STI Exchange Traded Fund- Liquidity
Dear Mr. Tan,
I would like to seek your advice about the Street-Tracks STI ETF http://www.sgx.com/psv/securities/etf/documents/STI4Apr2008Lodgementversion.pdf)
It seems that small investors can only sell through the SGX Exchange. As the volume of trade is low, there is liquidity risk. What do you think?
I read your blog frequently; maybe it will be good to discuss with blog readers.
Minimum Subscription: Creation Requests for Units may only be made in a minimum of Creation Unit size of 500,000 Units. Investors who wish to subscribe for Units has to go through Participating Dealers.
Liquidity: Investors should note the listing of the Fund on SGX-ST does not guarantee a liquid market for the Units.
REPLY
I believe that State Street will try to create the liquidity for this ETF. The current liquidity should be sufficient for the retail investors. It is suitable for long term investors (who are willing to buy on the market price).
It is not suitable for short term trading, where liquidity is important.
I would like to seek your advice about the Street-Tracks STI ETF http://www.sgx.com/psv/securities/etf/documents/STI4Apr2008Lodgementversion.pdf)
It seems that small investors can only sell through the SGX Exchange. As the volume of trade is low, there is liquidity risk. What do you think?
I read your blog frequently; maybe it will be good to discuss with blog readers.
Minimum Subscription: Creation Requests for Units may only be made in a minimum of Creation Unit size of 500,000 Units. Investors who wish to subscribe for Units has to go through Participating Dealers.
Liquidity: Investors should note the listing of the Fund on SGX-ST does not guarantee a liquid market for the Units.
REPLY
I believe that State Street will try to create the liquidity for this ETF. The current liquidity should be sufficient for the retail investors. It is suitable for long term investors (who are willing to buy on the market price).
It is not suitable for short term trading, where liquidity is important.
Government bonds
Dear Mr. Tan,
I would like to find out what a bond is. Is there a risk factor involved? How do I go about finding about government bonds?
REPLY
Government bonds have very little, almost negligble risk. You can buy through a bank or stockbroker. They can tell you about the yield and risk.
I would like to find out what a bond is. Is there a risk factor involved? How do I go about finding about government bonds?
REPLY
Government bonds have very little, almost negligble risk. You can buy through a bank or stockbroker. They can tell you about the yield and risk.
Honest advice on existing policies
Mr. Tan
Thanks for the honest and objective comments on the types of insurance products. I guess the gist of your message is to get low cost insurance product and fund.
Like many of your readers, I have already bought quite a numbers of life insurance products for myself and children. Like many, I must confess that I was a bit dazed when my agent-cum-my-friend explaining to me all the details. Anyway, I bought them.
Over the years, from time to time, I would take out my insurance policies and trying to understand again what I'd bought. Well, you can call me naive.Now that, as one of your readers, I have a better understanding especially on certain products, mentioned in your posts, that I should not have invested. Thanks !
I think the next logical question is that should we terminate these policies. Yes, you had pointed your readers asking similar question to FAQ. But, I thoght, it would do us a lot better if you or anyone reading this post could come up an excel file avail for public use to help to assess if one should drop any particular policy bought, based on certain inputs mentioned in the insurance product. Just a suggestion!
REPLY
When the new life insurance company is able to provide low cost investment fund, it will offer a service to help existing policyholders to decide if they should keep or terminate their policies. It will be honest advice, given in the best interest of the consumer.
Thanks for the honest and objective comments on the types of insurance products. I guess the gist of your message is to get low cost insurance product and fund.
Like many of your readers, I have already bought quite a numbers of life insurance products for myself and children. Like many, I must confess that I was a bit dazed when my agent-cum-my-friend explaining to me all the details. Anyway, I bought them.
Over the years, from time to time, I would take out my insurance policies and trying to understand again what I'd bought. Well, you can call me naive.Now that, as one of your readers, I have a better understanding especially on certain products, mentioned in your posts, that I should not have invested. Thanks !
I think the next logical question is that should we terminate these policies. Yes, you had pointed your readers asking similar question to FAQ. But, I thoght, it would do us a lot better if you or anyone reading this post could come up an excel file avail for public use to help to assess if one should drop any particular policy bought, based on certain inputs mentioned in the insurance product. Just a suggestion!
REPLY
When the new life insurance company is able to provide low cost investment fund, it will offer a service to help existing policyholders to decide if they should keep or terminate their policies. It will be honest advice, given in the best interest of the consumer.
Bonuses under Life Insurance Policies
Policyholders who try to analyse the bonuses paid under different life insurance policies found them to be complex and inconsistent. There is no reason why the bonuses should change significantly at certain durations and differ between different plans from the same company.
Here is the explanation. Life insurance companies have been "manipulating" their bonuses to allow their agents to sell the policies on the hope of a good yield, if they keep the policies for a long, long time. The yield on the earlier durations is extremely poor. The "manipulated" bonuses do not reflect the actual investment yield earned during the year.
Here are two big shortcomings:
a) Many people will not be keep the policies for the long duration, due to change in circumstance.
b) The jacked-up bonus at the "magic" duration is not guaranteed.
Due to the low investment yield (obtained from investing in low risk bonds) and the high marketing expenses (i.e advertisments and agent's commission), the life insurance policies give a poor yield. The company has to "manipulate" their bonuses to make them appear to give a good yield at the "magic" durations.
My advice:
a) Do not waste your time to understand the rationale of the bonuses. There is none.
b) Do not trust any life insurance company that has to resort to manipulating their bonuses.
Buy low cost insurance (i.e. term insurance) to protect your future earnings and invest in a low cost investment fund. Read these FAQs:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/savings.html
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/low.html
Here is the explanation. Life insurance companies have been "manipulating" their bonuses to allow their agents to sell the policies on the hope of a good yield, if they keep the policies for a long, long time. The yield on the earlier durations is extremely poor. The "manipulated" bonuses do not reflect the actual investment yield earned during the year.
Here are two big shortcomings:
a) Many people will not be keep the policies for the long duration, due to change in circumstance.
b) The jacked-up bonus at the "magic" duration is not guaranteed.
Due to the low investment yield (obtained from investing in low risk bonds) and the high marketing expenses (i.e advertisments and agent's commission), the life insurance policies give a poor yield. The company has to "manipulate" their bonuses to make them appear to give a good yield at the "magic" durations.
My advice:
a) Do not waste your time to understand the rationale of the bonuses. There is none.
b) Do not trust any life insurance company that has to resort to manipulating their bonuses.
Buy low cost insurance (i.e. term insurance) to protect your future earnings and invest in a low cost investment fund. Read these FAQs:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/savings.html
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/low.html
Solve Parking Woes
I read an interesting story in MyPaper entitled "Can't solve parking woes? Stack your car".
There is a mechanised parking system that can stack 8 to 16 cars on its platforms. It occupies the the parking space for 2 cars. 400 of these systems are used in Korea. It is being exported to other countries.
The Singapore distributor thinks that it is suitable for popular spots like Geylang, Holland Village and Demsey.
The Land Transport Authority has built a car park that can accomodate 142 cars at Club Street. Motorists drive their car to a platform and leave it there. A computer system directs the platform to stack the car in the right place.
We need to use mechanised systems for car parking, as space will become more expensive in the future.
There is a mechanised parking system that can stack 8 to 16 cars on its platforms. It occupies the the parking space for 2 cars. 400 of these systems are used in Korea. It is being exported to other countries.
The Singapore distributor thinks that it is suitable for popular spots like Geylang, Holland Village and Demsey.
The Land Transport Authority has built a car park that can accomodate 142 cars at Club Street. Motorists drive their car to a platform and leave it there. A computer system directs the platform to stack the car in the right place.
We need to use mechanised systems for car parking, as space will become more expensive in the future.
Contact a high level person
Hi Mr. Tan,
Thank you for being ever so obliging and patient in answering your readers' queries.
I like to share with you an incident with NTUC. I called the call centre to request for a quote on term insurance and I was referred to an adviser. He called me back and I explained to him what I needed. I waited for 2 days and called him up to check if he had sent already. It was quite obvious that he had totally forgotten about me. I had to explain to him again and then gave him my email address.
Later in the day, I received the email from him. But to my shock, the attachment was a questionaire from another client about his medical condition. This is considered a really serious breach of the client's confidentiality and such carelessness cannot be tolerated.
I wish to bring this matter up to higher management. I hope you can provide me with a contact in NTUC who would be the most appropriate to handle this incident.
REPLY
I suggest that you write a registered letter addressed to the chief executive officer. I think that it should receive high level attention. If you want to send by e-mail, you can try sq@income.com.sg.
Thank you for being ever so obliging and patient in answering your readers' queries.
I like to share with you an incident with NTUC. I called the call centre to request for a quote on term insurance and I was referred to an adviser. He called me back and I explained to him what I needed. I waited for 2 days and called him up to check if he had sent already. It was quite obvious that he had totally forgotten about me. I had to explain to him again and then gave him my email address.
Later in the day, I received the email from him. But to my shock, the attachment was a questionaire from another client about his medical condition. This is considered a really serious breach of the client's confidentiality and such carelessness cannot be tolerated.
I wish to bring this matter up to higher management. I hope you can provide me with a contact in NTUC who would be the most appropriate to handle this incident.
REPLY
I suggest that you write a registered letter addressed to the chief executive officer. I think that it should receive high level attention. If you want to send by e-mail, you can try sq@income.com.sg.
Exchange Traded Fund
Mr. Tan,
I just started investing in share and heard about ETF . Hope you can explain to me what is ETF?
REPLY
You can search "exchange traded fund" in Google.It gives you many references. Here is one of them:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exchange-traded_fund
An exchange-traded fund (or ETF) is an investment vehicle traded on stock exchanges, much like stocks or bonds. An ETF represents a collection or "basket" of assets such as stocks, bonds, or futures. Institutional investors can redeem large blocks of shares of the ETF (known as "creation units") for the underlying assets or, alternately, exchange the underlying assets for creation units. This creation and redemption of shares enables institutions to engage in arbitrage and causes the value of the ETF to track the net asset value of the underlying assets. Most ETFs track an index, such as the Dow Jones Industrial Average or the S&P 500.
An ETF takes the form of a collective investment scheme and combines the valuation feature of a mutual fund or unit investment trust, which can be purchased or redeemed at the end of each trading day for its net asset value, with the tradability feature of a closed-end fund, which trades throughout the trading day at prices that may be substantially more or less than its net asset value. Closed-end funds are not considered to be exchange-traded funds, even though they are funds and are traded on an exchange.
ETFs have been available in the US since 1993 and in Europe since 1999. ETFs traditionally have been index funds, but in 2008 the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission began to authorize the creation of actively-managed ETFs
I just started investing in share and heard about ETF . Hope you can explain to me what is ETF?
REPLY
You can search "exchange traded fund" in Google.It gives you many references. Here is one of them:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exchange-traded_fund
An exchange-traded fund (or ETF) is an investment vehicle traded on stock exchanges, much like stocks or bonds. An ETF represents a collection or "basket" of assets such as stocks, bonds, or futures. Institutional investors can redeem large blocks of shares of the ETF (known as "creation units") for the underlying assets or, alternately, exchange the underlying assets for creation units. This creation and redemption of shares enables institutions to engage in arbitrage and causes the value of the ETF to track the net asset value of the underlying assets. Most ETFs track an index, such as the Dow Jones Industrial Average or the S&P 500.
An ETF takes the form of a collective investment scheme and combines the valuation feature of a mutual fund or unit investment trust, which can be purchased or redeemed at the end of each trading day for its net asset value, with the tradability feature of a closed-end fund, which trades throughout the trading day at prices that may be substantially more or less than its net asset value. Closed-end funds are not considered to be exchange-traded funds, even though they are funds and are traded on an exchange.
ETFs have been available in the US since 1993 and in Europe since 1999. ETFs traditionally have been index funds, but in 2008 the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission began to authorize the creation of actively-managed ETFs
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Bonus projections of life insurance policies
The bonus projections of life insurance policies are not guaranteed. They depend on the future investment yield earned by the insurance company.
Long, long ago, the bonuses were distributed yearly to the policyholders based on sound actuarial principles. During the old days, you can trust the bonuses are computed fairly, and reflect the underlying economic conditions.
In the early 1990s, life insurance companies in Singapore started to "manipulate" the bonuses. They pay lower bonuses during the earlier years and jacked-up bonuses from age 60 or 65. The policy appears to give a good yield for the long term. As these bonuses are not guaranteed, the policyholder has to wait for a long time to find out if the higher bonuses will be paid. (In many cases, the actual bonuses paid were lower).
Many policies were sold on the basis of these projections. Insurance agents used the bonus projections to sell the concept that the policyholder can stop paying premiums after a certain number of years, called the "critical year". In many cases, the policyholders had to pay the premium for many years more than the projected "critical year". This affected many tens of thousands of policyholders.
I used the term "manipulated" because the bonuses do not reflect the real yield on the investments during the years. There is lack of clarity of the principles on which the bonuses were calculated.
These bonus projections are used to hide the high cost of marketing the life insurance products, which reduces the yield of the policy considerably. The effective yield is less than 2% in most cases, lower than the future rate of inflation. The policyholder is guaranteed to lose out on buying a life insurance policy.
Lesson: Do not trust this type of haphazard bonus projection. Do not trust insurance companies that offer these type of "manipulated" products.
Read this FAQ on how to invest your savings for the future:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/savings.html
Long, long ago, the bonuses were distributed yearly to the policyholders based on sound actuarial principles. During the old days, you can trust the bonuses are computed fairly, and reflect the underlying economic conditions.
In the early 1990s, life insurance companies in Singapore started to "manipulate" the bonuses. They pay lower bonuses during the earlier years and jacked-up bonuses from age 60 or 65. The policy appears to give a good yield for the long term. As these bonuses are not guaranteed, the policyholder has to wait for a long time to find out if the higher bonuses will be paid. (In many cases, the actual bonuses paid were lower).
Many policies were sold on the basis of these projections. Insurance agents used the bonus projections to sell the concept that the policyholder can stop paying premiums after a certain number of years, called the "critical year". In many cases, the policyholders had to pay the premium for many years more than the projected "critical year". This affected many tens of thousands of policyholders.
I used the term "manipulated" because the bonuses do not reflect the real yield on the investments during the years. There is lack of clarity of the principles on which the bonuses were calculated.
These bonus projections are used to hide the high cost of marketing the life insurance products, which reduces the yield of the policy considerably. The effective yield is less than 2% in most cases, lower than the future rate of inflation. The policyholder is guaranteed to lose out on buying a life insurance policy.
Lesson: Do not trust this type of haphazard bonus projection. Do not trust insurance companies that offer these type of "manipulated" products.
Read this FAQ on how to invest your savings for the future:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/savings.html
Armed robbery in Singapore
There are more armed robbery and serious crimes in Singapore. They are a sign of hard times. People are becoming desperate, and have to resort to crime.
Sometimes, I wonder if the large number of foreign workers earning low wages in Singapore increase the exposure to criminal activities.
What can we do? We have to find more effective ways to help people to cope with inflation and high cost of living, for our locals and foreign workers.
Sometimes, I wonder if the large number of foreign workers earning low wages in Singapore increase the exposure to criminal activities.
What can we do? We have to find more effective ways to help people to cope with inflation and high cost of living, for our locals and foreign workers.
Wider choice of cards for public transport
The Land Transport Authority plan to introduce a wider choice of cards to be used in public transport in 2009. This requires a big investments to change the readers in buses and MRT stations.
I think that this is a bad idea. It is wasteful. We are spending too much money in hardware. This should be avoided.
There is a perception competition will bring down cost. I doubt it, in this instance. After all, ez-Link is owned by the Government. It is easy to establish performance benchmarks for ez-Link. It is not necessary to have the market to establish it, especially as the market mechanism is likely to impose heavy cost.
I hope that the Government will drop this idea and avoid spending too much money, adding to inflation for the future years.
I think that this is a bad idea. It is wasteful. We are spending too much money in hardware. This should be avoided.
There is a perception competition will bring down cost. I doubt it, in this instance. After all, ez-Link is owned by the Government. It is easy to establish performance benchmarks for ez-Link. It is not necessary to have the market to establish it, especially as the market mechanism is likely to impose heavy cost.
I hope that the Government will drop this idea and avoid spending too much money, adding to inflation for the future years.
Haphazard projections
Dear Mr. Tan
I have two whole life policy proposals (from NTUC Income and Great Eastern Life).Both have sum assured of $100K and premium is payable for only 20 years to enjoy whole life coverage. I am thinking of buying the policy for my baby.
I am attracted to Great Eastern's higher annual reversionary bonus rate of $10 per $1,000 sum assured + 2% attaching bonus (compared to Income's $7 per $1,000 sum assured, compounded at 0.7% p.a.). This could explain why Great Eastern's total projected protection value of $416,000 at age 65 is much higher than Income's $263,000.
Great Eastern also has higher terminal bonus and surrender bonus rates than Income. However, Income has a higher guaranteed surrender value of $65,000 at age 65 (compared to Great Eastern's $54,000).
My guess is that this shows that Income is more confident of earning a higher yield compared to Great Eastern? However, Income's total projected surrender value of $171,000 at age 65 is much lower than Great Eastern's $226,000. Under "Reduction in Yield", Great Eastern's projected reduced yield of 4.43% at age 65 is higher than Income's 3.61%.
This is very confusing. On one hand, Income is confident of guaranteeing a higher surrender value at age 65 than Great Eastern, but Income's projections for total surrender value and total protection value are much lower than Great Eastern's.
Would greatly appreciate your advice on whether I should go for Income's Vivolife or Great Eastern's FlexiLife20. Also, can you help recommend a reliable and experienced insurance agent from Income?
REPLY
I am not able to advice on the merits of these two proposals. I do not advice buying a life insurance policy for a child.
Some life insurance companies adjust their bonuses to show attractive values at certain durations. They are not guaranteed and do not give consistent values. I do not trust these types of haphazard projections.
My advice is to buy a Term insurance policy on your own life and to invest the difference. See this FAQ:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/savings.html
I have two whole life policy proposals (from NTUC Income and Great Eastern Life).Both have sum assured of $100K and premium is payable for only 20 years to enjoy whole life coverage. I am thinking of buying the policy for my baby.
I am attracted to Great Eastern's higher annual reversionary bonus rate of $10 per $1,000 sum assured + 2% attaching bonus (compared to Income's $7 per $1,000 sum assured, compounded at 0.7% p.a.). This could explain why Great Eastern's total projected protection value of $416,000 at age 65 is much higher than Income's $263,000.
Great Eastern also has higher terminal bonus and surrender bonus rates than Income. However, Income has a higher guaranteed surrender value of $65,000 at age 65 (compared to Great Eastern's $54,000).
My guess is that this shows that Income is more confident of earning a higher yield compared to Great Eastern? However, Income's total projected surrender value of $171,000 at age 65 is much lower than Great Eastern's $226,000. Under "Reduction in Yield", Great Eastern's projected reduced yield of 4.43% at age 65 is higher than Income's 3.61%.
This is very confusing. On one hand, Income is confident of guaranteeing a higher surrender value at age 65 than Great Eastern, but Income's projections for total surrender value and total protection value are much lower than Great Eastern's.
Would greatly appreciate your advice on whether I should go for Income's Vivolife or Great Eastern's FlexiLife20. Also, can you help recommend a reliable and experienced insurance agent from Income?
REPLY
I am not able to advice on the merits of these two proposals. I do not advice buying a life insurance policy for a child.
Some life insurance companies adjust their bonuses to show attractive values at certain durations. They are not guaranteed and do not give consistent values. I do not trust these types of haphazard projections.
My advice is to buy a Term insurance policy on your own life and to invest the difference. See this FAQ:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/savings.html
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
Large American Airlines
Thirty years ago, there were two large American airlines, called Pan American (PanAm) and Trans World Airlines (TWA). They have disappeared. What happened to them?
Transfer of shares on death of shareholder
Hi Mr. Tan,
I need your advice. My father has passed away more than 10 years ago. He holds the shares of a specific company on SGX. May I have your advice in how to go about having the shares transfered to my mother or myself? I understand in the past, usually a share certificate is required but then after so long, we did not know where is the share certificate. SGX now practices scripless policy.
REPLY
The shares were registered in the name of your father. If your family has applied for letters of adminstration or probate of a will, the administrator or executor can take over the shares of your deceased father and distirbute it as part of the estate.
If this process was not done, you can apply for the letter or probate now. It should cost a few thousand dollars. I hope that the value of the shares are worth much more. Ask a lawyer.
I need your advice. My father has passed away more than 10 years ago. He holds the shares of a specific company on SGX. May I have your advice in how to go about having the shares transfered to my mother or myself? I understand in the past, usually a share certificate is required but then after so long, we did not know where is the share certificate. SGX now practices scripless policy.
REPLY
The shares were registered in the name of your father. If your family has applied for letters of adminstration or probate of a will, the administrator or executor can take over the shares of your deceased father and distirbute it as part of the estate.
If this process was not done, you can apply for the letter or probate now. It should cost a few thousand dollars. I hope that the value of the shares are worth much more. Ask a lawyer.
Life and term insurance
Hi,
For term insurance cover, do you mean life insurance?
REPLY
Term insurance covers a limited term, such as 15 or 30 years. Whole life assurance covers for whole of life and is 5 to 10 times more expensive than term insurance.
For term insurance cover, do you mean life insurance?
REPLY
Term insurance covers a limited term, such as 15 or 30 years. Whole life assurance covers for whole of life and is 5 to 10 times more expensive than term insurance.
High yield in the past years will not be repeated
Dear Mr. Tan,
NTUC has advertised its yield on endowment policies at about 6% per annum. This is attractive, compared to the low interest rate on fixed deposits. Will I be able to get this type of return in the future?
REPLY
The yield of 6% was obtained on the endowment policies bought 20 to 30 years ago, and matured this year. This high yield was possible due to:
a) High interest rate prior during 1970s and 1980s.
b) High return from the stock and property market
c) Low expenses in the past years
Going into the future, the yield should be much lower. I understand that the new products being sold today project a return of less than 2% per annum.
In the future, life insurance products will usually give a poor return due to:
a) A high proportion invested in low yielding bond
b) High expenses to pay agents commission and marketing
If you wish to have a higher return, you should invest in a low cost, diversified investment fund, as shown in this FAQ:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/savings.html
NTUC has advertised its yield on endowment policies at about 6% per annum. This is attractive, compared to the low interest rate on fixed deposits. Will I be able to get this type of return in the future?
REPLY
The yield of 6% was obtained on the endowment policies bought 20 to 30 years ago, and matured this year. This high yield was possible due to:
a) High interest rate prior during 1970s and 1980s.
b) High return from the stock and property market
c) Low expenses in the past years
Going into the future, the yield should be much lower. I understand that the new products being sold today project a return of less than 2% per annum.
In the future, life insurance products will usually give a poor return due to:
a) A high proportion invested in low yielding bond
b) High expenses to pay agents commission and marketing
If you wish to have a higher return, you should invest in a low cost, diversified investment fund, as shown in this FAQ:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/savings.html
Inadequate parking spaces
There are too many cars in Singapore. There is inadequate parking spaces for the cars.
It is frustrating, after paying the expensive ERP charges and spending a long time on congested roads, to arrive at a destination and find it difficult to find a vacant space to park the car.
This situation will be worsen when the new buildings are ready in Marina South. The new buildings will have fewer parking spaces, compared to the old buildings.
Why drive? It is better to learn how to use the MRT, buses and public transport.
It is frustrating, after paying the expensive ERP charges and spending a long time on congested roads, to arrive at a destination and find it difficult to find a vacant space to park the car.
This situation will be worsen when the new buildings are ready in Marina South. The new buildings will have fewer parking spaces, compared to the old buildings.
Why drive? It is better to learn how to use the MRT, buses and public transport.
Shortages and bubbles
The world is short of oil. Oil price went through the roof. This is followed by gold, commodities and food (i.e. wheat, rice, etc).
Is the world suddenly so short of these commodities, when it was in adequate supply two years ago? Why is there a sudden increase in consumption or a big drop in supply?
The main cause is speculation. When there is a small shortage, the speculators came into the picture and push up the prices. The ordinary people also start to stock up on food supply, aggravating the situation.
The world had gone through bubbles. It was the tulip bubble, South sea bubble. In more recent years, we have the dotcom bubble, the US housing bubble. Now we have the commodity bubble.
All bubbles will burst. Some burst earlier. Others burst later. Be careful. Do not be caught in the oil, gold or commodity bubble.
Is the world suddenly so short of these commodities, when it was in adequate supply two years ago? Why is there a sudden increase in consumption or a big drop in supply?
The main cause is speculation. When there is a small shortage, the speculators came into the picture and push up the prices. The ordinary people also start to stock up on food supply, aggravating the situation.
The world had gone through bubbles. It was the tulip bubble, South sea bubble. In more recent years, we have the dotcom bubble, the US housing bubble. Now we have the commodity bubble.
All bubbles will burst. Some burst earlier. Others burst later. Be careful. Do not be caught in the oil, gold or commodity bubble.
Timing the market
Mr. Tan
Is this a good time to invest in bonds, instead of fixed deposit?
REPLY
Please read this FAQ for long term investments:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/savings.html
If you want specific advice on timing, please see a financial adviser or stockbroker.
Is this a good time to invest in bonds, instead of fixed deposit?
REPLY
Please read this FAQ for long term investments:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/savings.html
If you want specific advice on timing, please see a financial adviser or stockbroker.
Advice from a financial planner
Hi,
I currently have the following insurance coverage: whole life, investment linked, decreasing term, mortgage insurance, company coverage disability income, private Shield. (Details provided)
However, my critical illness coverage is very low. I am considering either a limited premium life insurance or a term insurance covering specifically critical illness.
My questions are:
a) Do i need to cover for critical illness?
b) If yes, should i cover for 75 years or 99 years ?
c) If no, should I focus on something else?
REPLY
Please see if these FAQs are able to answer your questions:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/choice.html
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/savings.html
If you want specific advice on your situation, I suggest that you see a financial planner.
I currently have the following insurance coverage: whole life, investment linked, decreasing term, mortgage insurance, company coverage disability income, private Shield. (Details provided)
However, my critical illness coverage is very low. I am considering either a limited premium life insurance or a term insurance covering specifically critical illness.
My questions are:
a) Do i need to cover for critical illness?
b) If yes, should i cover for 75 years or 99 years ?
c) If no, should I focus on something else?
REPLY
Please see if these FAQs are able to answer your questions:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/choice.html
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/savings.html
If you want specific advice on your situation, I suggest that you see a financial planner.
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
Single premium endowment
Hi Mr Tan ,
I have a fixed deposit of 10k which is due soon. Currently, the interest rate is less than 1%. I like to invest this amount in a furnd or unit trust. My risk appetitue is toward low to balanced. I wish to hold it for 5 years or more . I am quite happy to invest in a single premium endowment. I wish to hae this saving for a rainy day and will not need this money at the moment.
Kindly advise.
REPLY
You can read this FAQ
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/savings.html
If you are happy with the return on a single premium endowment (about 3% to 4%), you can go ahead and invest in it. You only need to be clear about what you can get over the period of the policy.
I have a fixed deposit of 10k which is due soon. Currently, the interest rate is less than 1%. I like to invest this amount in a furnd or unit trust. My risk appetitue is toward low to balanced. I wish to hold it for 5 years or more . I am quite happy to invest in a single premium endowment. I wish to hae this saving for a rainy day and will not need this money at the moment.
Kindly advise.
REPLY
You can read this FAQ
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/savings.html
If you are happy with the return on a single premium endowment (about 3% to 4%), you can go ahead and invest in it. You only need to be clear about what you can get over the period of the policy.
Poll: local bus serivce
There were 19 repliest to the poll:
Do you like light buses to operate a local service within each town?
52% - strongly support
36% - neutral
10% - not feasible
Do you like light buses to operate a local service within each town?
52% - strongly support
36% - neutral
10% - not feasible
Poll: Makeover at Orchard Road
30 people replied to the poll:
What do we need along Orchard Road?
26% - covered walkway at second level
10% - light rail transport or monorail
46% - both
16% - none of the above.
What do we need along Orchard Road?
26% - covered walkway at second level
10% - light rail transport or monorail
46% - both
16% - none of the above.
Read the small print
A bank advertised two loans as follows:
a) Fixed repayment. Low interest rate of 7.5% p.a.
b) Flexible repayment. Low fund transfer rate of 0.3% per month for 6 months.
30% cash back on the interest charges for one year.
The small print at the bottom of the advertisement says:
a) The effective interest rate are 13.8% p.a. for 2 years, 13.69% p.a. for 3 years, etc
b) The effective interest rate is 10.05% for the first year. The prevailing interest rate of 16.5% p.a. applies thereafter.
Do not be misled by the lower interest rate that was advertised. Look for the effective interest rate. Are you prepared to pay an annual interest rate of about 13% on the loan?
Lesson: You should save now and spend later. If you lend to yourself (i.e. from your past savings), you can earn a yield of 13% p.a. (i.e. the interest rate that you have to pay on a loan).
a) Fixed repayment. Low interest rate of 7.5% p.a.
b) Flexible repayment. Low fund transfer rate of 0.3% per month for 6 months.
30% cash back on the interest charges for one year.
The small print at the bottom of the advertisement says:
a) The effective interest rate are 13.8% p.a. for 2 years, 13.69% p.a. for 3 years, etc
b) The effective interest rate is 10.05% for the first year. The prevailing interest rate of 16.5% p.a. applies thereafter.
Do not be misled by the lower interest rate that was advertised. Look for the effective interest rate. Are you prepared to pay an annual interest rate of about 13% on the loan?
Lesson: You should save now and spend later. If you lend to yourself (i.e. from your past savings), you can earn a yield of 13% p.a. (i.e. the interest rate that you have to pay on a loan).
Term Insurance with Cashback
Hi Mr Tan,
You are an expert in this subject. In the newspaper article it was mentioned by the reporter that with the term insurance covered for $400,000 annual premium of less than a thousand and yet there are cash back guarantee features.
Do you know of any such insurance company. I will be interested to purchase such policy.
REPLY
You can call the insurance companies listed in this FAQ:http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/termd.html
This FAQ shows the benchmark premium rates.
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/benchmark.html
If you are quoted a premium closed to the benchmark rate, you can accept it.
In most cases it is better to buy a Term insurance without any cash back feature. You pay a lower premium. If you invest the difference separately, you can get a better return compared to the cash back.
Monday, April 07, 2008
American Depository Receipt (ADR)
An American Depositary Receipt (or ADR) represents ownership in the shares of a foreign company trading on US financial markets. The stock of many non-US companies trades on US exchanges through the use of ADRs. ADRs enable US investors to buy shares in foreign companies without undertaking cross-border transactions. ADRs carry prices in US dollars, pay dividends in US dollars, and can be traded like the shares of US-based companies.
Each ADR is issued by a US depositary bank and can represent a fraction of a share, a single share, or multiple shares of foreign stock. An owner of an ADR has the right to obtain the foreign stock it represents, but US investors usually find it more convenient simply to own the ADR. The price of an ADR is often close to the price of the foreign stock in its home market, adjusted for the ratio of ADRs to foreign company shares.
Depository banks have numerous responsibilities to an ADR holder and to the non-US company the ADR represents. The first ADR was introduced by JPMorgan in 1927, for the British retailer Selfridges&Co. The largest depositary bank is the Bank of New York Mellon.
Individual shares of a foreign corporation represented by an ADR are called American Depositary Shares (ADS).
Each ADR is issued by a US depositary bank and can represent a fraction of a share, a single share, or multiple shares of foreign stock. An owner of an ADR has the right to obtain the foreign stock it represents, but US investors usually find it more convenient simply to own the ADR. The price of an ADR is often close to the price of the foreign stock in its home market, adjusted for the ratio of ADRs to foreign company shares.
Depository banks have numerous responsibilities to an ADR holder and to the non-US company the ADR represents. The first ADR was introduced by JPMorgan in 1927, for the British retailer Selfridges&Co. The largest depositary bank is the Bank of New York Mellon.
Individual shares of a foreign corporation represented by an ADR are called American Depositary Shares (ADS).
CPF pays higher interest than treasury bills
Hi Mr Tan,
I have read your newspapers articles and about your website, find that you are a very knowledgable person in the finance field.
As a student, I have always wanted to know more about investments. My question is, can I get higher interest by investing in 3 months treasury bills or just leave my money in CPF for 3 months?
http://www.sgs.gov.sg/announce/bill-announce.html
http://www.sgs.gov.sg/announce/bill-result.html )
REPLY
It is better to leave your money in CPF as you earn 2.5% interest plus a bonus of 1%. Short term treasury bills pay less than 1% interest.
I have read your newspapers articles and about your website, find that you are a very knowledgable person in the finance field.
As a student, I have always wanted to know more about investments. My question is, can I get higher interest by investing in 3 months treasury bills or just leave my money in CPF for 3 months?
http://www.sgs.gov.sg/announce/bill-announce.html
http://www.sgs.gov.sg/announce/bill-result.html )
REPLY
It is better to leave your money in CPF as you earn 2.5% interest plus a bonus of 1%. Short term treasury bills pay less than 1% interest.
Income Tax Relief
Dear Mr. Tan,
The price of every thing has gone up. I believe that every one feels the pinch. This year, made people have to think about their household budget or personal budget. The relief that the Government gives to tax-payer has remained the same over the years. Do you think that the Government should raise the amount by 5% or more?
REPLY
The Government has been quite firm about not changing the income tax relief. They prefer to reduce the tax rates.
My personal view is that the income tax relief should be increased over the year, in line with inflation.
The price of every thing has gone up. I believe that every one feels the pinch. This year, made people have to think about their household budget or personal budget. The relief that the Government gives to tax-payer has remained the same over the years. Do you think that the Government should raise the amount by 5% or more?
REPLY
The Government has been quite firm about not changing the income tax relief. They prefer to reduce the tax rates.
My personal view is that the income tax relief should be increased over the year, in line with inflation.
Products that are good for customers
Products that are good for customers have the following features:
* meet the needs of customers
* transparent, easy to understand
* educate the customers
* low marketing expense
* fair profit margin
* easy to compare the price of similar products
Many products in the market have these features. The prices are kept competitive and at a fair level. They represent good value to the customers.
* meet the needs of customers
* transparent, easy to understand
* educate the customers
* low marketing expense
* fair profit margin
* easy to compare the price of similar products
Many products in the market have these features. The prices are kept competitive and at a fair level. They represent good value to the customers.
At the expense of customers
How can you identify a business that is being operated "at the expense of the customer"?
These businesses make big profits as follows:
* overcharge the customers
* mislead the customer into buying a bad product
* pays high commission to sales people to sell the products
The features of these products are:
* complicated
* lack of transparency
* speculative
Examples of these types of bad products are:
* time sharing
* land banking
* high cost insurance and structured products
These businesses are able to design products that are not suitable for customers, make them complicated, train marketeers to push the products and pocket big profits.
Lesson: Avoid these products that are developed to "rip off" the customers.
These businesses make big profits as follows:
* overcharge the customers
* mislead the customer into buying a bad product
* pays high commission to sales people to sell the products
The features of these products are:
* complicated
* lack of transparency
* speculative
Examples of these types of bad products are:
* time sharing
* land banking
* high cost insurance and structured products
These businesses are able to design products that are not suitable for customers, make them complicated, train marketeers to push the products and pocket big profits.
Lesson: Avoid these products that are developed to "rip off" the customers.
Sunday, April 06, 2008
More Trust & Faith in Our Younger Generation
Dr. Lee Kum Tatt’s (LKT ) blog is now one year old. He has many visitors from all over the world to his blog. They range from students, parents, professionals, professors and friends besides the men in the street. He has to cover a wide spread of people.
He has asked three of his grandchildren who are a University graduate, and two undergraduates for their views on his articles and the issues that affect them.
Read about their views in his blog www.leekumtatt.blogspot.com.
He has asked three of his grandchildren who are a University graduate, and two undergraduates for their views on his articles and the issues that affect them.
Read about their views in his blog www.leekumtatt.blogspot.com.
Customer Service in Singapore
COMMENT POSTED IN MY BLOG
Customer service level in Singapore is getting worse than expected. When you stand in front of the shopping centers customer service staff, they can just ignore you and act busy or chatting among themselves.
Hopefuly, every shopping centers management can really put in some effort to promote "Service with a good manners".
VIEW FROM TAN KIN LIAN
It is extremely impolite for customer service staff to chat among themselves, instead of serving a customer. This bad habit seems to be a Singapore culture. I hope that this weakness can be removed.
Customer service level in Singapore is getting worse than expected. When you stand in front of the shopping centers customer service staff, they can just ignore you and act busy or chatting among themselves.
Hopefuly, every shopping centers management can really put in some effort to promote "Service with a good manners".
VIEW FROM TAN KIN LIAN
It is extremely impolite for customer service staff to chat among themselves, instead of serving a customer. This bad habit seems to be a Singapore culture. I hope that this weakness can be removed.
Terminate an existing policy?
Dear Mr. Tan,
Please advice if it's good for me to terminate this policy (benefit illustion attached) which I hold since 1993. I intend to buy term and invest the cash in ETF STI. Appreciate what you are doing…
REPLY
Please follow this guide and let me have your preliminary conclusion:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/existinglife.html
Please advice if it's good for me to terminate this policy (benefit illustion attached) which I hold since 1993. I intend to buy term and invest the cash in ETF STI. Appreciate what you are doing…
REPLY
Please follow this guide and let me have your preliminary conclusion:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/existinglife.html
Being accessible to customers
Dear Mr. Tan,
I was reading your blog entry titled: Excellent Customer Service. I also understand that you used to communicate with customers directly when you were a CEO, is that what you mean by being "accessible"?
I can't figure out the rationale behind needing to have top people who are accessible to customers. Personally, as a buyer of a service or product, I do not really care about who solved my problems when they arise, I do not go directly to the highest level but work my way up until my problems are fixed. So if an organisation is able to hire and train good customer service officers, I do not see the need to have access to the top people.
I must say though, to have a very good customer service team is not easy. As a customer or shareholder of a company, I don't think it's a good idea to have the top people handling customers, as I think the cost will have to be passed on somehow, either to the customer or the organisation's bottom line will suffer. I hope and would appreciate if you could enlighten me.
REPLY
Most customers have their issues solved at the lower levels. Only a small number of cases go to the top. Some customers write an email to me (3 to 5 per day). It was quite easy for me to handle them.
I give them an immediate reply (usually a partial reply) and forward the issue to the right people to handle it. It worked quite well.
I was reading your blog entry titled: Excellent Customer Service. I also understand that you used to communicate with customers directly when you were a CEO, is that what you mean by being "accessible"?
I can't figure out the rationale behind needing to have top people who are accessible to customers. Personally, as a buyer of a service or product, I do not really care about who solved my problems when they arise, I do not go directly to the highest level but work my way up until my problems are fixed. So if an organisation is able to hire and train good customer service officers, I do not see the need to have access to the top people.
I must say though, to have a very good customer service team is not easy. As a customer or shareholder of a company, I don't think it's a good idea to have the top people handling customers, as I think the cost will have to be passed on somehow, either to the customer or the organisation's bottom line will suffer. I hope and would appreciate if you could enlighten me.
REPLY
Most customers have their issues solved at the lower levels. Only a small number of cases go to the top. Some customers write an email to me (3 to 5 per day). It was quite easy for me to handle them.
I give them an immediate reply (usually a partial reply) and forward the issue to the right people to handle it. It worked quite well.
Immediate or deferred annuity
An immediate annuity pays the annuity payment immediately. A deferred annuity pays the annuity payment at a specified date in the future. During the deferred period, the invested sum is invested to earn interest.
If you do not need the annuity payment immediately, you have the following options:
a) buy a deferred annuity
b) invest your money separately and buy an immediate annuity at the future date
Your choice depends on the terms that you are offered. For example, if the insurance company pays 2.5% per annum for the deferred period, it will be attractive compared to leaving the money in the bank to earn 1%.
If you buy the deferred annuity, you are locked into the contract now. If you wish to withdraw from it later, you may be subject to penalty. You should choose the deferred annuity only if you are sure that it is what you really want.
My preference is to invest separately and buy an immediate annuity at the time that you need the annuity payment. For example, it is better to keep your minimum sum in the Central Provident Fund until 62 or 65 years, and earn interest at 4% plus bonus of 1%. You can decide at 62, if you wish to switch to an immediate annuity at that time.
Lesson: Keep the flexibility. Do not be locked into a contract that you cannot change. If you buy an annuity contact, stick to it for the entire period.
If you do not need the annuity payment immediately, you have the following options:
a) buy a deferred annuity
b) invest your money separately and buy an immediate annuity at the future date
Your choice depends on the terms that you are offered. For example, if the insurance company pays 2.5% per annum for the deferred period, it will be attractive compared to leaving the money in the bank to earn 1%.
If you buy the deferred annuity, you are locked into the contract now. If you wish to withdraw from it later, you may be subject to penalty. You should choose the deferred annuity only if you are sure that it is what you really want.
My preference is to invest separately and buy an immediate annuity at the time that you need the annuity payment. For example, it is better to keep your minimum sum in the Central Provident Fund until 62 or 65 years, and earn interest at 4% plus bonus of 1%. You can decide at 62, if you wish to switch to an immediate annuity at that time.
Lesson: Keep the flexibility. Do not be locked into a contract that you cannot change. If you buy an annuity contact, stick to it for the entire period.
Lyxor Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs)
Hi Mr. Tan,
I read your blog. You said that it might be better to buy into ETF such as STI ETF to reduce expenses and upfront loading. Recently, there has been a number of Lyxor ETFs listed on SGX and they are denominated in USD. What is your opinion of such ETFs, in particular that the exchange rate risk of such ETFs seemed particularly high in current market?
REPLY
The Lyxor ETFs are denominated in USD for the purpose of trading only. The underlying risk depends on the asset class that the fund is invested in, and is not affected by the traded currency. For example, if the USD weakens and the underlying fund is performing well, the unit price denominated in USD will increase to compensate for it.
I am not familiar with the Lyxor ETFs, but if they are widely diversified, invested in good quality stocks (i.e. non speculative) and have low expense ratios, then these ETFs are suitable for long term investors.
I read your blog. You said that it might be better to buy into ETF such as STI ETF to reduce expenses and upfront loading. Recently, there has been a number of Lyxor ETFs listed on SGX and they are denominated in USD. What is your opinion of such ETFs, in particular that the exchange rate risk of such ETFs seemed particularly high in current market?
REPLY
The Lyxor ETFs are denominated in USD for the purpose of trading only. The underlying risk depends on the asset class that the fund is invested in, and is not affected by the traded currency. For example, if the USD weakens and the underlying fund is performing well, the unit price denominated in USD will increase to compensate for it.
I am not familiar with the Lyxor ETFs, but if they are widely diversified, invested in good quality stocks (i.e. non speculative) and have low expense ratios, then these ETFs are suitable for long term investors.
Future role of the intermediary
Hi Mr. Tan
If more insurance companies offer their products through the internet, is there a need for insurance agents?
REPLY:
Insurance agents will continue to play a useful role. They have to advice the customer on making the final decision, after the customer has obtained most of the information from the internet. As the insurance agent takes less time to make the sale, the commission rate can be reduced.
This is similar to the situation with buying shares from a stockbroker. The brokerage is now 0.3% (as compared to 1% previously). The stockbroker continue to do well through a larger volume of business.
I use a stockbroker to obtain relevant information and handle the transactions. This is more convenient than searching for the information by myself. I do not mind paying a slightly higher brokerage (compared to transacting through the internet), as the service is valuable.
There is a role for insurance agents in the new environment. The new system will be more efficient and will reduce cost for the benefit of everybody. The agent can earn a fair rate of remuneration, but should not be placed in a conflict of interest.
The challenge is making the change to move forward.
If more insurance companies offer their products through the internet, is there a need for insurance agents?
REPLY:
Insurance agents will continue to play a useful role. They have to advice the customer on making the final decision, after the customer has obtained most of the information from the internet. As the insurance agent takes less time to make the sale, the commission rate can be reduced.
This is similar to the situation with buying shares from a stockbroker. The brokerage is now 0.3% (as compared to 1% previously). The stockbroker continue to do well through a larger volume of business.
I use a stockbroker to obtain relevant information and handle the transactions. This is more convenient than searching for the information by myself. I do not mind paying a slightly higher brokerage (compared to transacting through the internet), as the service is valuable.
There is a role for insurance agents in the new environment. The new system will be more efficient and will reduce cost for the benefit of everybody. The agent can earn a fair rate of remuneration, but should not be placed in a conflict of interest.
The challenge is making the change to move forward.
Excellent Customer Service
Excellent customer service is built from the following components:
a) A genuine belief in doing the best for customers
b) Simple and efficent processes
c) People who enjoy serving customers
d) Teamwork among the service providers
e) Competent leadership, who knows the business
It is not possible to have excellent customer service under the following environment:
a) When an organisation wants to increase profit at the expense of customers
b) When there is high turnover of managers and staff
c) When people look after their individual performance, rather than work as a team
d) When the top people are not accessible to customers
There are so many organisations that fall into this trap. The leaders think that excellent customer service can be achieved by engaging consultants to improve the processes. It hardly works.
It takes man years to build an organisation that has excellent customer service. It can take a short time to destroy it.
a) A genuine belief in doing the best for customers
b) Simple and efficent processes
c) People who enjoy serving customers
d) Teamwork among the service providers
e) Competent leadership, who knows the business
It is not possible to have excellent customer service under the following environment:
a) When an organisation wants to increase profit at the expense of customers
b) When there is high turnover of managers and staff
c) When people look after their individual performance, rather than work as a team
d) When the top people are not accessible to customers
There are so many organisations that fall into this trap. The leaders think that excellent customer service can be achieved by engaging consultants to improve the processes. It hardly works.
It takes man years to build an organisation that has excellent customer service. It can take a short time to destroy it.
5 year Single Premium Endowment
Hi Mr. Tan,
I wish to seek your advice on the best return single premium endownment for 5 years. This sum of money is mean for housing which i intend to use it after 5 years.
My objective is to treat the single premium endowment as a form long term fixed deposit for high return as compare to the current fixed deposit rate. Thank you for your advice.
REPLY
You have to do some work. Call the telphone numbers of the life insurance company directly. Tell them that you have $x and wish to have a 5 year single premium endowment. Let me quote the best terms to you.
You can show me the figures (of guaranteed and non-guaranteed benefit). I will help you to make a decision. The telephone numbers of the insurance companies are found in this FAQ:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/termd.html
Alternatively, you can ask a bank or stockbroker to find a government bond that will mature in 5 years time. You will probably get a yield of about 3%. Over 5 years, the gain should be about 16%.
I wish to seek your advice on the best return single premium endownment for 5 years. This sum of money is mean for housing which i intend to use it after 5 years.
My objective is to treat the single premium endowment as a form long term fixed deposit for high return as compare to the current fixed deposit rate. Thank you for your advice.
REPLY
You have to do some work. Call the telphone numbers of the life insurance company directly. Tell them that you have $x and wish to have a 5 year single premium endowment. Let me quote the best terms to you.
You can show me the figures (of guaranteed and non-guaranteed benefit). I will help you to make a decision. The telephone numbers of the insurance companies are found in this FAQ:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/termd.html
Alternatively, you can ask a bank or stockbroker to find a government bond that will mature in 5 years time. You will probably get a yield of about 3%. Over 5 years, the gain should be about 16%.
Should MAS ban high cost products?
Someone posted a comment about an ILP product that gives poor cash value after two years. He asked, "Why doesn't MAS (i.e. Monetary Authority of Singapore) ban this type of product, or set some limit on the commission that can be paid to the agent?"
It seems that many consumers are not aware about the high charges of an ILP product, and now learn to their regret that so much of their savings is taken away from them.
If you are in this category, and you felt that the insurance agent has not been fair in disclosing this important point to you, should write to MAS. If enough people write to MAS, maybe, they will take actions to protect the interest of consumers.
Alternatively, you should write a letter of complaint to the newspapers and wait for MAS to reply to your letter.
It seems that many consumers are not aware about the high charges of an ILP product, and now learn to their regret that so much of their savings is taken away from them.
If you are in this category, and you felt that the insurance agent has not been fair in disclosing this important point to you, should write to MAS. If enough people write to MAS, maybe, they will take actions to protect the interest of consumers.
Alternatively, you should write a letter of complaint to the newspapers and wait for MAS to reply to your letter.
High charges of ILP policy
There are many stories about consumers who bought the ILP policy from several insurance conmpanies and agents, only to find the cash value to be so low after paying permiums for two years. Read this website to learn about the high cost:
http://www.askdrmoney.com/Ins_ILP_RP.htm
According to this survey by Dr. Money, the insurance proeuct can take away 19 months of your savings. If you save $300 a month, you will lose more than $5,000. It is a lot of hard work for you to earn this money. It is taken away to pay the insurance agent and the marketing cost of the insurance company.
You should avoid these high cost insurance products. Please help to tell your friends and relatives. They should avoid ILP policies sold by insurance agents.
It is better for you to invest in a low cost fund, such as the STI exchange traded fund (i.e. managed by StateStreets).
You can also wait for a few months, and invest in the Wealth Accumulator which will be introduced later this year. Read this FAQ:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/low.html
http://www.askdrmoney.com/Ins_ILP_RP.htm
According to this survey by Dr. Money, the insurance proeuct can take away 19 months of your savings. If you save $300 a month, you will lose more than $5,000. It is a lot of hard work for you to earn this money. It is taken away to pay the insurance agent and the marketing cost of the insurance company.
You should avoid these high cost insurance products. Please help to tell your friends and relatives. They should avoid ILP policies sold by insurance agents.
It is better for you to invest in a low cost fund, such as the STI exchange traded fund (i.e. managed by StateStreets).
You can also wait for a few months, and invest in the Wealth Accumulator which will be introduced later this year. Read this FAQ:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/low.html
Keen interest in Wealth Accumulator
Hi Mr. Tan,
I follow your blog, and there's more and more story about ILP charges. Sadly, I also have ILP policy with this "P" insurance company. When I signed the policy, I thought that's the only insurance model I can have with some value return. As for term insurance, initially, I thought it's not good since the policy doesn't return any value at the end.
But, as I read your blog, I understand that "Buy Term and Invest the Rest" might be a better model. However. it's too late for me, as the ILP has been signed about 1.5 years ago, and as you already know, the cash value is so little at this time. As I will still be charged by premium cost for another 1-2 years (which might be around 50%), do you think I should surrender this policy now?
Since current ILP model mostly doesn't give proper benefit to customer, and only gives heavy benefit to insurance agent, why don't the government ban this insurance model? Or at least make some regulation for the size of the initial premium charge? Government has done similar to the Sales Charge of Unit Trust, which only allows 3% sales charge to the Unit Trust (if it's invested using CPF), which as expected, followed by the reduction of sales charge by almost all institution or bank.
I look forward to your "Wealth Accumulator" product. Hope it will be an "innovation" that will be followed by other insurance company to provide better benefit for customer. May I know how you will realize/market this product?
REPLY
If you are willing to cut loss, you can terminate the ILP policy now and save on the high charges for the next few years. I hope to get a new insurance company to offer the Wealth Accumulator product later in 2008.
Read this FAQ to learn about the Wealth Accumulator:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/low.html
I follow your blog, and there's more and more story about ILP charges. Sadly, I also have ILP policy with this "P" insurance company. When I signed the policy, I thought that's the only insurance model I can have with some value return. As for term insurance, initially, I thought it's not good since the policy doesn't return any value at the end.
But, as I read your blog, I understand that "Buy Term and Invest the Rest" might be a better model. However. it's too late for me, as the ILP has been signed about 1.5 years ago, and as you already know, the cash value is so little at this time. As I will still be charged by premium cost for another 1-2 years (which might be around 50%), do you think I should surrender this policy now?
Since current ILP model mostly doesn't give proper benefit to customer, and only gives heavy benefit to insurance agent, why don't the government ban this insurance model? Or at least make some regulation for the size of the initial premium charge? Government has done similar to the Sales Charge of Unit Trust, which only allows 3% sales charge to the Unit Trust (if it's invested using CPF), which as expected, followed by the reduction of sales charge by almost all institution or bank.
I look forward to your "Wealth Accumulator" product. Hope it will be an "innovation" that will be followed by other insurance company to provide better benefit for customer. May I know how you will realize/market this product?
REPLY
If you are willing to cut loss, you can terminate the ILP policy now and save on the high charges for the next few years. I hope to get a new insurance company to offer the Wealth Accumulator product later in 2008.
Read this FAQ to learn about the Wealth Accumulator:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/low.html
Disappointing service at Business Center
Dear Mr. Tan,
Firstly, I will like thank you for your blog, which Ibelieve is beneficial to consumers.
I have visited a business centre of an insurance company on two occasions. Both times, the business consultants wanted to sell the idea of Life insurance to me. They looked disappointed when I insisted on a low cost term policy instead.
The moral of the story is;
1) Even though the consultants are earning mostly afixed salary (a small component in commission), it is difficult to be objective when commissions no matter how small or targets are involved.
2) Consumers have to take some responsibility in educating themselves and study the product before purchasing any products. It is difficult to obtain objective advice.
REPLY
Thank you for your feedback. I hope to get a new life insurance company to offer low cost insurance and low cost investment funds. They can be bought over the telephone or its office. This will happen later in 2008.
Firstly, I will like thank you for your blog, which Ibelieve is beneficial to consumers.
I have visited a business centre of an insurance company on two occasions. Both times, the business consultants wanted to sell the idea of Life insurance to me. They looked disappointed when I insisted on a low cost term policy instead.
The moral of the story is;
1) Even though the consultants are earning mostly afixed salary (a small component in commission), it is difficult to be objective when commissions no matter how small or targets are involved.
2) Consumers have to take some responsibility in educating themselves and study the product before purchasing any products. It is difficult to obtain objective advice.
REPLY
Thank you for your feedback. I hope to get a new life insurance company to offer low cost insurance and low cost investment funds. They can be bought over the telephone or its office. This will happen later in 2008.
Saturday, April 05, 2008
Dollar Averaging
Hi Mr Tan,
I have an investment link policy. My advisor has advised me to invest on a yearly basis to enjoy better allocation rates (i.e. at the moment, I am doing regularly investment on a yearly basis).
My question is for dollar cost averaging to work best (i.e. for long term investment), it is advisable to invest on yearly or monthly basis? You advice is appreciated.
REPLY
Both methods should produce neutral results. The effect of dollar averaging depends on the level of the market at the time of each investment
It is more important for you to buy an ILP that invest 100% of your annual or monthly premium. Do not buy an ILP that takes away two years of your savings.
Read this FAQ:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/ilp.html
I have posted two cases in my blog of policyholders who were shocked to discover that after investing over $2000 for 2 years, they cash value is less than $400 today. You should not fall into the same trap.
I have an investment link policy. My advisor has advised me to invest on a yearly basis to enjoy better allocation rates (i.e. at the moment, I am doing regularly investment on a yearly basis).
My question is for dollar cost averaging to work best (i.e. for long term investment), it is advisable to invest on yearly or monthly basis? You advice is appreciated.
REPLY
Both methods should produce neutral results. The effect of dollar averaging depends on the level of the market at the time of each investment
It is more important for you to buy an ILP that invest 100% of your annual or monthly premium. Do not buy an ILP that takes away two years of your savings.
Read this FAQ:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/ilp.html
I have posted two cases in my blog of policyholders who were shocked to discover that after investing over $2000 for 2 years, they cash value is less than $400 today. You should not fall into the same trap.
ILP policy takes away most of the premiums
Dear Mr. Tan,
I've bought an ILP policy. My premiums are $1200 per year and have paid it for two years. I has cash value of about $310 now. The sum insured is 100k. It is a yearly premium and the third one is going to be due soon.
After reading about the charges and feasibility of ILPs, I'm sceptical that I should keep this policy. Would you advise me to give it up or continue with it?
REPLY
I suggest that you ask the insurance company about the charges for the next three years, i.e. what percentage of your premium will be invested. If the charges are small, it is probably better for you to continue the policy, as you have already incurred most of the front end charges.
It is quite sad that an insurance company can take away so much of a person's savings. You should tell your family and friends to avoid this type of policy in the future.
I intend to get a new life insurance company to introduce an ILP that has no front end charge. 100% of the premium will be invested. Tentativelyly, this is called the Wealth Accumulator.
Read this FAQ:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/low.html
I've bought an ILP policy. My premiums are $1200 per year and have paid it for two years. I has cash value of about $310 now. The sum insured is 100k. It is a yearly premium and the third one is going to be due soon.
After reading about the charges and feasibility of ILPs, I'm sceptical that I should keep this policy. Would you advise me to give it up or continue with it?
REPLY
I suggest that you ask the insurance company about the charges for the next three years, i.e. what percentage of your premium will be invested. If the charges are small, it is probably better for you to continue the policy, as you have already incurred most of the front end charges.
It is quite sad that an insurance company can take away so much of a person's savings. You should tell your family and friends to avoid this type of policy in the future.
I intend to get a new life insurance company to introduce an ILP that has no front end charge. 100% of the premium will be invested. Tentativelyly, this is called the Wealth Accumulator.
Read this FAQ:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/low.html
Makeover of Orchard Road
I read about the $40 million makeover of Orchard Road.
Here are my wishes for this project:
a) Have a second level covered walkway to allow people to connect the whole stretch of Orchard Road. This can be linked to all the buildings.
b) Build a light monorail to run down Orchard Road connected to the walkway.
c) Have large multi-storey carparks on the fringe of Orchard Roads, connected to the monorail.
This will reduce the traffic congestion on Orchard Road. It will make shopping in Orchard Road more pleasant.
Here are my wishes for this project:
a) Have a second level covered walkway to allow people to connect the whole stretch of Orchard Road. This can be linked to all the buildings.
b) Build a light monorail to run down Orchard Road connected to the walkway.
c) Have large multi-storey carparks on the fringe of Orchard Roads, connected to the monorail.
This will reduce the traffic congestion on Orchard Road. It will make shopping in Orchard Road more pleasant.
Change of address
The authority now requires a resident to provide documentary proof for a change of address in the NRIC records. The documents could be a bill sent to the resident in the new address. This can caused timing problem.
I wish to suggest a practical solution. The new resident can ask two neighbours to be witnesses to the residency. The neighbours particulars can be provided for the authority to make the verification.
This is simple and effective. It also encourges the new resident to knock on the doors of the neighbours.
I wish to suggest a practical solution. The new resident can ask two neighbours to be witnesses to the residency. The neighbours particulars can be provided for the authority to make the verification.
This is simple and effective. It also encourges the new resident to knock on the doors of the neighbours.
Local Bus Services
I wish to introduce the concept of local bus services. I propose that it operates as follows:
a) Use light buses
b) Runs a specific route in a town
c) Uses the existing bus stops
d) Actively publicised through maps at bus stops
e) Operated by small operators
f) Licences to be given based on service level and commuter demand
g) Can be exempted from road tax and ERP, so as to bring down the cost for commuter
h) Fares to be controlled
Some taxi drivers may be interested to be operators of these light buses. This will reduce cost and create a more efficient public transport system.
a) Use light buses
b) Runs a specific route in a town
c) Uses the existing bus stops
d) Actively publicised through maps at bus stops
e) Operated by small operators
f) Licences to be given based on service level and commuter demand
g) Can be exempted from road tax and ERP, so as to bring down the cost for commuter
h) Fares to be controlled
Some taxi drivers may be interested to be operators of these light buses. This will reduce cost and create a more efficient public transport system.
Premium Bus Services
Is there a website that shows all the premium bus services that are available in Singapore?
It should show the pickup areas, drop off points, and the fares. Commuters can have an easy acces to the information instead of searching the many websites of the operators.
I hope that Land Transport Authority can be the central source of this information.
It should show the pickup areas, drop off points, and the fares. Commuters can have an easy acces to the information instead of searching the many websites of the operators.
I hope that Land Transport Authority can be the central source of this information.
Friday, April 04, 2008
Loading for term insurance
If you are a smoker, or have an adverse family history of cancer or heart disease, you may have to pay a loading of up to 100% on the standard premium for term insurance. As the premium rate is quite low, this loading may be still quite affordable.
Read this article: http://www.tankinlian.com/course/usa.html
Read this article: http://www.tankinlian.com/course/usa.html
High unemployment among youths in S Korea
My friend in South Korea told me that there is a high rate of unemployment of youths. Employers are reluctant to increase employment as it is costly to downsize the workforce during economic slowdown. The trade unions are strong and impose high cost for termination of workers.
Some employers will recruit young workers as temporary employees and pay wages that are half the rate of permanent workers.
Lesson: If trade unions are too strong, employers are afraid to recruit more people. If trade unions are too weak, employers pay low wages. The soceity has to find the correct balance between what is good for business and fair wages for workers.
Some employers will recruit young workers as temporary employees and pay wages that are half the rate of permanent workers.
Lesson: If trade unions are too strong, employers are afraid to recruit more people. If trade unions are too weak, employers pay low wages. The soceity has to find the correct balance between what is good for business and fair wages for workers.
Leverage
Leverage is the amount of loans compared to equity. If the leverage is 1 time, the amount of loan is the same as the amount of equity.
Some hedge funds are leveraged by 10 times. The borrowing is 10 times of the equity of the investors. This is risky.
I recalled that at the time of its collapse, Bear Stearns was leveraged 30 times. This is far, too high. To make matters worse, the borrowings are short term and their investments are long term. When the lenders refused to refinance the borrowings, Bear Stearns become insolvent. If they had to sell their investments, the markets would collapse. Bear Strearns had to be rescued by J P Morgan.
Lesson: It is very bad for hedge funds and investment banks to be highly leveraged. Leverage of 10 times is too high. Leverage of 30 times is madness.
Some hedge funds are leveraged by 10 times. The borrowing is 10 times of the equity of the investors. This is risky.
I recalled that at the time of its collapse, Bear Stearns was leveraged 30 times. This is far, too high. To make matters worse, the borrowings are short term and their investments are long term. When the lenders refused to refinance the borrowings, Bear Stearns become insolvent. If they had to sell their investments, the markets would collapse. Bear Strearns had to be rescued by J P Morgan.
Lesson: It is very bad for hedge funds and investment banks to be highly leveraged. Leverage of 10 times is too high. Leverage of 30 times is madness.
Personal savings for retirement
Hi Mr. Tan Kin Lian
I enjoyed your blog. My friend told me that the savings in CPF is not sufficient for retirement needs. I have to supplement it with personal savings to be invested for my retirement. What is the amount that I should save? How is this computed?
REPLY
I usually advice people to save 10% to 15% of their regular earnings for the future. This should be invested in a low cost fund, preferably an equity fund to obtain the best return.
This is explained in this FAQ:
http://www.tankinlian.com/articles/savings.html
I enjoyed your blog. My friend told me that the savings in CPF is not sufficient for retirement needs. I have to supplement it with personal savings to be invested for my retirement. What is the amount that I should save? How is this computed?
REPLY
I usually advice people to save 10% to 15% of their regular earnings for the future. This should be invested in a low cost fund, preferably an equity fund to obtain the best return.
This is explained in this FAQ:
http://www.tankinlian.com/articles/savings.html
Low cost funds
Dear Mr. Tan,
You referred to a low cost fund. What is the expense ratio that can be considered "low cost"? How do you find the expense ratio for a life insurance policy?
REPLY
If you are investing for the future, you should look for a fund that have an expense ratio of less than 1%. If you earn 6% and deduct an expense ratio of 1%, you get a net yield of 5%.
For a life insurance policy, the front end and other charges will reduce your yield by about 2.5%. It is quite high.
Read this FAQ:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/expense.html
You referred to a low cost fund. What is the expense ratio that can be considered "low cost"? How do you find the expense ratio for a life insurance policy?
REPLY
If you are investing for the future, you should look for a fund that have an expense ratio of less than 1%. If you earn 6% and deduct an expense ratio of 1%, you get a net yield of 5%.
For a life insurance policy, the front end and other charges will reduce your yield by about 2.5%. It is quite high.
Read this FAQ:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/expense.html
Difficult to find parking space
I visited a friend at his office in Bukit Merah. There is no parking space in his building or in the large building next to it. I had to park at a multi-story car park a few blocks away.
I concluded that it would have been more convenient to use public transport or to travel by taxi (in spite of the high fare). It is becoming quite inconvenient (and expensive) to use a private car.
I concluded that it would have been more convenient to use public transport or to travel by taxi (in spite of the high fare). It is becoming quite inconvenient (and expensive) to use a private car.
Singapore and Global Equities
Hi Mr. Tan,
You advised many people to invest in the STI ETF. This is invested only in Singapore. Should they be more diversified and invest in global equities? What are your views?
REPLY
It is all right for a Singapore resident to invest in Singapore equities. If you invest in the STI ETF, you are quite well diversified.
If you wish to take a global perspective, or you wish to reside abroad, it is all right to be invested in global equities.
This FAQ shows the past yields of the various asset classes, including Singapore and global equities:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/returns.html
You advised many people to invest in the STI ETF. This is invested only in Singapore. Should they be more diversified and invest in global equities? What are your views?
REPLY
It is all right for a Singapore resident to invest in Singapore equities. If you invest in the STI ETF, you are quite well diversified.
If you wish to take a global perspective, or you wish to reside abroad, it is all right to be invested in global equities.
This FAQ shows the past yields of the various asset classes, including Singapore and global equities:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/returns.html
Professionally managed funds
Dear Mr. Tan,
Is it better to buy a long term investment portfolio offered by banks or to buy company shares directly from a broker? What's your advise?
REPLY
It is better to invest in a professionally managed fund, provided that the expense ratio is kept below 1%.
The advantages are:
a) Diversification. You are invested in a large number of shares, and not in a few shares
b) Stock picking. You do not have to worry about stock picking. It is done by the fund manager
c) Transaction. You do not have to take care of collecting dividends, subscribing to rights issues, paying for share purchases and other tedious tasks. They are done by the fund.
Let the professionals take care of the investments (if the fees are modest).
However, if you have a large sum to invest (say, more than $1 million) and you can afford to spend the time to take care of the investments, you can buy the shares through a stockbroker. You will save the fees charged by the fund, but you have to do the work on your own.
Is it better to buy a long term investment portfolio offered by banks or to buy company shares directly from a broker? What's your advise?
REPLY
It is better to invest in a professionally managed fund, provided that the expense ratio is kept below 1%.
The advantages are:
a) Diversification. You are invested in a large number of shares, and not in a few shares
b) Stock picking. You do not have to worry about stock picking. It is done by the fund manager
c) Transaction. You do not have to take care of collecting dividends, subscribing to rights issues, paying for share purchases and other tedious tasks. They are done by the fund.
Let the professionals take care of the investments (if the fees are modest).
However, if you have a large sum to invest (say, more than $1 million) and you can afford to spend the time to take care of the investments, you can buy the shares through a stockbroker. You will save the fees charged by the fund, but you have to do the work on your own.
Hedge Funds
Someone asked me to explain a hedge fund. Here is an explanation from Wikipedia, accessed through Google.
A hedge fund is a private investment fund that charges a performance fee and is typically open to only a limited range of qualified investors.
Hedge fund activity in the public securities markets has grown substantially as it constitutes approximately 30% of all U.S. fixed-income security transactions, 55% of U.S. activity in derivatives with investment-grade ratings, 55% of the trading volume for emerging-market bonds, as well as 30% of equity trades.
Hedge Funds dominate certain specialty markets such as trading in derivatives with high-yield ratings, and distressed debt.
Alfred Winslow Jones is credited with inventing hedge funds in 1949.
In the United States, in order for an investment fund to be exempt from direct regulation, it must be open to accredited investors only and only a limited number of investors can belong to it.
While there is no legal definition of "hedge fund" under U.S. securities laws and regulations, typically they include any investment fund that, because of an exemption from the types of regulation that otherwise apply to mutual funds, brokerage firms or investment advisors, can invest in more complex and riskier investments than a public fund might.
Hedge funds managed from other countries have similar relationships with their national regulators. As a hedge fund's investment activities are therefore limited only by the contracts governing the particular fund, it can make greater use of complex investment strategies such as short selling, entering into futures, swaps and other derivative contracts and leverage.
As their name implies, hedge funds often seek to offset potential losses in the principal markets they invest in by hedging their investments using a variety of methods, most notably short selling.
However, the term "hedge fund" has come in modern parlance to be applied to many funds that do not actually hedge their investments, and in particular to funds using short selling and other "hedging" methods to increase risk, and therefore return, rather than reduce it.
Hedge funds have acquired a reputation for secrecy. Being outside the regulatory regime that applies to retail funds greatly reduces the information a hedge fund is legally required to make public. Additionally, divulging trading methods and positions would compromise the business interests of many types of hedge fund, tending to limit the information they want to release.
The assets under management of a hedge fund can run into many billions of dollars, and this will usually be multiplied by leverage. Their sway over markets, whether they succeed or fail, is therefore potentially substantial and there is a continuing debate over whether they should be more thoroughly regulated.
COMMENT BY TAN KIN LIAN
A big risk in hedge fund is that its investment is "multipled by leverage". They borrowed additional funds at the market rate of interest to increase their investments. During the market downturn, the borrowers refused to refinance the short term loans. This caused the liquidity crisis.
A hedge fund is a private investment fund that charges a performance fee and is typically open to only a limited range of qualified investors.
Hedge fund activity in the public securities markets has grown substantially as it constitutes approximately 30% of all U.S. fixed-income security transactions, 55% of U.S. activity in derivatives with investment-grade ratings, 55% of the trading volume for emerging-market bonds, as well as 30% of equity trades.
Hedge Funds dominate certain specialty markets such as trading in derivatives with high-yield ratings, and distressed debt.
Alfred Winslow Jones is credited with inventing hedge funds in 1949.
In the United States, in order for an investment fund to be exempt from direct regulation, it must be open to accredited investors only and only a limited number of investors can belong to it.
While there is no legal definition of "hedge fund" under U.S. securities laws and regulations, typically they include any investment fund that, because of an exemption from the types of regulation that otherwise apply to mutual funds, brokerage firms or investment advisors, can invest in more complex and riskier investments than a public fund might.
Hedge funds managed from other countries have similar relationships with their national regulators. As a hedge fund's investment activities are therefore limited only by the contracts governing the particular fund, it can make greater use of complex investment strategies such as short selling, entering into futures, swaps and other derivative contracts and leverage.
As their name implies, hedge funds often seek to offset potential losses in the principal markets they invest in by hedging their investments using a variety of methods, most notably short selling.
However, the term "hedge fund" has come in modern parlance to be applied to many funds that do not actually hedge their investments, and in particular to funds using short selling and other "hedging" methods to increase risk, and therefore return, rather than reduce it.
Hedge funds have acquired a reputation for secrecy. Being outside the regulatory regime that applies to retail funds greatly reduces the information a hedge fund is legally required to make public. Additionally, divulging trading methods and positions would compromise the business interests of many types of hedge fund, tending to limit the information they want to release.
The assets under management of a hedge fund can run into many billions of dollars, and this will usually be multiplied by leverage. Their sway over markets, whether they succeed or fail, is therefore potentially substantial and there is a continuing debate over whether they should be more thoroughly regulated.
COMMENT BY TAN KIN LIAN
A big risk in hedge fund is that its investment is "multipled by leverage". They borrowed additional funds at the market rate of interest to increase their investments. During the market downturn, the borrowers refused to refinance the short term loans. This caused the liquidity crisis.
Delay in issuing a policy
Hi Mr. Tan,
Could I seek your advise on this issue. My husband and I went down to one of the Business Centre in NTUC and sign off and make premium payment for Living Benefit policy under the Family Policy.
Yesterday, we received a letter to ask us to go for routine checkup and that NTUC will decide if they will take on the policy with us. Is it right for the insurance company to receive premium payment and then 3 weeks later sent us a letter of such?
What if something happens during this period? After making the premium payment, I thought I am covered under the policy and was shocked when I received the letter yesterday..
REPLY
The coverage will commence on the commencement date shown in the policy. This will be after the acceptance of your application, including medical checkup. In the meantime, the premium is received as an "advance premium" and is refunded in full if the application is rejected.
During my time, NTUC Income offered coverage against accident from the time of payment of the premium until acceptance of the application. I am not sure if this practice is still being continued. You can ask the business center about it.
Normally, there should not be a delay of 3 weeks. It should have been processed much earlier. It must have been an oversight.
What you may lose is the interest on the premium paid for a few days or weeks. As the interest rate is quite low, the lost interest is not significant. If you get accident coverage, it should make up for this lost interest.
Could I seek your advise on this issue. My husband and I went down to one of the Business Centre in NTUC and sign off and make premium payment for Living Benefit policy under the Family Policy.
Yesterday, we received a letter to ask us to go for routine checkup and that NTUC will decide if they will take on the policy with us. Is it right for the insurance company to receive premium payment and then 3 weeks later sent us a letter of such?
What if something happens during this period? After making the premium payment, I thought I am covered under the policy and was shocked when I received the letter yesterday..
REPLY
The coverage will commence on the commencement date shown in the policy. This will be after the acceptance of your application, including medical checkup. In the meantime, the premium is received as an "advance premium" and is refunded in full if the application is rejected.
During my time, NTUC Income offered coverage against accident from the time of payment of the premium until acceptance of the application. I am not sure if this practice is still being continued. You can ask the business center about it.
Normally, there should not be a delay of 3 weeks. It should have been processed much earlier. It must have been an oversight.
What you may lose is the interest on the premium paid for a few days or weeks. As the interest rate is quite low, the lost interest is not significant. If you get accident coverage, it should make up for this lost interest.
6 digit postal code
The 6 digit postal code used in Singapore is organised as follows:
a) A specific code is given to each building or residential block, e.g. 560207 is block 207 in Ang Mo Kio. The individual units are identified by the unit number, e.g. #12-456 for level 12, house 456.
b) Each landed property has a separate 6 digit number, e.g. 8098xx is for xx Begonia Drive.
In my view, it is inefficient to allot a 6 digit number for each house. It is better to allocate a 6 digit code for each street, e.g. Cactus Crescent and to identify each house by the house number. All the houses in the street share the same 6 digit code.
This new method has the following advantages:
a) Reduce the size of the postal code directory by as much as 90% (my estimate)
b) Allows the use of 6 digit postal code and house number for mailing.
A letter can be sent to
Lee Kim Teck
15
Singapore 809001
809001 could be the name of a street, say Begonia Drive.
a) A specific code is given to each building or residential block, e.g. 560207 is block 207 in Ang Mo Kio. The individual units are identified by the unit number, e.g. #12-456 for level 12, house 456.
b) Each landed property has a separate 6 digit number, e.g. 8098xx is for xx Begonia Drive.
In my view, it is inefficient to allot a 6 digit number for each house. It is better to allocate a 6 digit code for each street, e.g. Cactus Crescent and to identify each house by the house number. All the houses in the street share the same 6 digit code.
This new method has the following advantages:
a) Reduce the size of the postal code directory by as much as 90% (my estimate)
b) Allows the use of 6 digit postal code and house number for mailing.
A letter can be sent to
Lee Kim Teck
15
Singapore 809001
809001 could be the name of a street, say Begonia Drive.
Letter with postal code only
I send a letter addressed to the following:
Tan Kin Lian
Singapore 809744
The letter finally arrived after 20 days. The post office searched for my house address and street address, using my postal code, and wrote it on the envelope. This is necessary for the postman to deliver the letter to my house (i.e. the "last mile").
Congratulations to Singapore Post. They did take the trouble!
Tan Kin Lian
Singapore 809744
The letter finally arrived after 20 days. The post office searched for my house address and street address, using my postal code, and wrote it on the envelope. This is necessary for the postman to deliver the letter to my house (i.e. the "last mile").
Congratulations to Singapore Post. They did take the trouble!
Thursday, April 03, 2008
Investing in resource and commodity
Hi Mr. Tan,
What is your view about investing in resource and commodity sector? I understand that this sector has appreciated fast during turmoil in the financial market, caused by high price of oil, gold, and other commodities. However, there's also a recent correction, which might give a better opportunity to enter.
What is your view of this sector fund? Currently I am looking at First State Global Resource, which has 1.5% annual management charge, and 1.74% expense ratio. The United Global Resource Fund has 8.63% expense ratio (which I think it's too high).
REPLY
I am not familiar with investing in the resource and commodity sector. I heard the comment of an analyst on CNBC. He said that commodities are bullish now, but investors should be ready to sell at short notice. He reminded investors about what happened on the bursting of the dotcom bubble.
I prefer to invest in a well diversified equity fund.
What is your view about investing in resource and commodity sector? I understand that this sector has appreciated fast during turmoil in the financial market, caused by high price of oil, gold, and other commodities. However, there's also a recent correction, which might give a better opportunity to enter.
What is your view of this sector fund? Currently I am looking at First State Global Resource, which has 1.5% annual management charge, and 1.74% expense ratio. The United Global Resource Fund has 8.63% expense ratio (which I think it's too high).
REPLY
I am not familiar with investing in the resource and commodity sector. I heard the comment of an analyst on CNBC. He said that commodities are bullish now, but investors should be ready to sell at short notice. He reminded investors about what happened on the bursting of the dotcom bubble.
I prefer to invest in a well diversified equity fund.
Investing in hedge funds
Hi Mr Tan,
Hope to seek your advice on my queries:
1) What is a hedge fund?
2) There are many investment portfolios offered by banks, are any of these considered as hedge fund?
3) Can you give an example of a hedge fund?
4) Is it safe to buy investment portfolios offered by banks such as UOB, OCBC?
5) Is it better off buying a long term investment portfolio offered by banks or is it better off buying company's shares directly from a broker? What's your advise? Note that I'm not one person who market watch.
REPLY
I suggest that you search for "Hedge Funds" in Google. You will come across several references in the internet. You can read the articles on hedge funds there.
If you are picking a unit trust offered by a bank, you should look at the initial spread, the annual expense ratio and other factors. Most of these funds have high charges that reduce the return on your investments.
You should avoid investing in an investment that you are not familiar, such as a hedge fund. There are many types of hedge funds. They take money from the investors and borrow additional money (i.e. leveraged) to make risky investments. Many hedge funds performed badly during the past year, as their investments lost money.
I usually advice people to buy a low cost diversified fund, such as the STI ETF, as a long term investment. Read this FAQ:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/savings.html
Hope to seek your advice on my queries:
1) What is a hedge fund?
2) There are many investment portfolios offered by banks, are any of these considered as hedge fund?
3) Can you give an example of a hedge fund?
4) Is it safe to buy investment portfolios offered by banks such as UOB, OCBC?
5) Is it better off buying a long term investment portfolio offered by banks or is it better off buying company's shares directly from a broker? What's your advise? Note that I'm not one person who market watch.
REPLY
I suggest that you search for "Hedge Funds" in Google. You will come across several references in the internet. You can read the articles on hedge funds there.
If you are picking a unit trust offered by a bank, you should look at the initial spread, the annual expense ratio and other factors. Most of these funds have high charges that reduce the return on your investments.
You should avoid investing in an investment that you are not familiar, such as a hedge fund. There are many types of hedge funds. They take money from the investors and borrow additional money (i.e. leveraged) to make risky investments. Many hedge funds performed badly during the past year, as their investments lost money.
I usually advice people to buy a low cost diversified fund, such as the STI ETF, as a long term investment. Read this FAQ:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/savings.html
Invest in a life annuity
Dear Mr. Tan,
I am 61 year old. I have around $100,000 to invest. I need your advise on a better investment compared to the low interest rate for fixed deposit.
I am thinking of putting the sum to a deferred anunity with NTUC Income. Am I able to withdraw the full amount from NTUC when I reach 65 years old. What are the likely return I will be getting in 4 year time?
REPLY
I suggest that you call the business center of NTUC Income and ask them about the return on the deferred annuity.
Please read this FAQ
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/life.html
I am 61 year old. I have around $100,000 to invest. I need your advise on a better investment compared to the low interest rate for fixed deposit.
I am thinking of putting the sum to a deferred anunity with NTUC Income. Am I able to withdraw the full amount from NTUC when I reach 65 years old. What are the likely return I will be getting in 4 year time?
REPLY
I suggest that you call the business center of NTUC Income and ask them about the return on the deferred annuity.
Please read this FAQ
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/life.html
Poor return on ILP policy
Hi Mr. Tan,
Great to chance upon your website!
I have an issue with my ILP investment. My annual premium is $1200, and I have been paying it for 2 years and eight months, current cash value at only $600.
I'm aware it's too late to cancel the account. Even though my monthly premium is not high, I still don't like the idea of paying for mortality charges.
Do you think it's more worthwhile to cancel now, suffer some loss and start investing in better products for a longer term gain? Does this make sense?
REPLY
As you have paid two years of premium, most of the upfront charges have already been incurred. I suggest that you keep the current investment account.
You can ask the insurance company for the mortality charges for the next five years and compare them with the benchmark rates shown on the attached.
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/benchmark.html
If the mortality charges are too high, you can cancel the life insurance cover and buy a term insurance policy. You can still keep the investments.
If the mortality charges are reasonable, you can continue the policy for the next 5 to 10 years. You can cancel it when you reach age 60 or 65.
Great to chance upon your website!
I have an issue with my ILP investment. My annual premium is $1200, and I have been paying it for 2 years and eight months, current cash value at only $600.
I'm aware it's too late to cancel the account. Even though my monthly premium is not high, I still don't like the idea of paying for mortality charges.
Do you think it's more worthwhile to cancel now, suffer some loss and start investing in better products for a longer term gain? Does this make sense?
REPLY
As you have paid two years of premium, most of the upfront charges have already been incurred. I suggest that you keep the current investment account.
You can ask the insurance company for the mortality charges for the next five years and compare them with the benchmark rates shown on the attached.
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/benchmark.html
If the mortality charges are too high, you can cancel the life insurance cover and buy a term insurance policy. You can still keep the investments.
If the mortality charges are reasonable, you can continue the policy for the next 5 to 10 years. You can cancel it when you reach age 60 or 65.
Public Tender
Singapore is used to the public tender system. The business is awarded to the tenderer who submitted the most competitive (lowest) bid. In some cases, the tenderer have to bid below cost, to win the tender. They find ways to cut corners to meet the low budget, leading to a poor quality of work.
Someone observed that the public tender system favours the large companies. They have the financial resources to spend money to submit the bid. The smaller companies are not able to compete.
I hope that there is another way for the principal to offer a reasonable price, and select the contractor based on their ability to deliver a better quality of work.
Someone observed that the public tender system favours the large companies. They have the financial resources to spend money to submit the bid. The smaller companies are not able to compete.
I hope that there is another way for the principal to offer a reasonable price, and select the contractor based on their ability to deliver a better quality of work.
Walkways in Hong Kong
My friend worked in Hong Kong a few years back. When he arrived in Hong Kong, he was provided with a car. After two months, he sold off the car. He preferred to use the Hong Kong MTR (Mass Transit Railway).
It was possible to walk to a nearby MTR station from most parts of Hong Kong. He could walk through the underground or overhead walkways. It was quite comfortable during most months of the year, due to the congenial weather.
He observed that many people in Hong Kong and Japan were quite slim. The walking is good for their health and keep them fit.
I hope that all MRT stations in Singapore have underground or overlink walkways. If commuters can walk in these sheltered walkway at a different level from the road traffic, more people will be willing to take the train. This has been proven by the Hong Kong experience.
It was possible to walk to a nearby MTR station from most parts of Hong Kong. He could walk through the underground or overhead walkways. It was quite comfortable during most months of the year, due to the congenial weather.
He observed that many people in Hong Kong and Japan were quite slim. The walking is good for their health and keep them fit.
I hope that all MRT stations in Singapore have underground or overlink walkways. If commuters can walk in these sheltered walkway at a different level from the road traffic, more people will be willing to take the train. This has been proven by the Hong Kong experience.
Wednesday, April 02, 2008
Interest rate on CPF savings
Mr. Tan,
From 1 January this year, interest rate for savings in the Special, Medisave and Retirement Accounts (SMRA) is pegged to the 12-month average yield of the 10-year Singapore Government Security (10YSGS) plus 1%. The average yield of the 10YSGS over one year, from 1 March 2007 to 29 February 2008, plus 1% works out to be 3.75%.
According to the news, CPF Board will only provide a floor of 4% for the Special, Medisave and Retirement Accounts rate for 2008 & 2009 only. The 4% will be lifted after 2 years, and the 2.5% floor rate will apply for all CPF accounts thereafter.
In view that the average yield of 10YSGS from Mar 07 to Feb 08 is only 2.75%, I'm kinda worry about this lower rate.
Furthermore, remember that last year, CPF Board encourage members to transfer their OA to SA and earn a 4% steady yearly compound interest seems to be no longer valid after 2010.
Care to share you comments?
http://mycpf.cpf.gov.sg/CPF/News/News-Release/N_10Mar2008.htm
REPLY
I recommend the following:
1. Transfer your OA to SA to earn a higher rate of interest
2. Do not worry that the interest rate will drop below 4% as you still getting 1% higher than the market rate for govt bonds
3. I expect the interest rate to increase, due to higher inflation.
4. If you wish to earn a higher return on your OA, I suggest a low cost diversified fund.
See this FAQ:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/savings.html
From 1 January this year, interest rate for savings in the Special, Medisave and Retirement Accounts (SMRA) is pegged to the 12-month average yield of the 10-year Singapore Government Security (10YSGS) plus 1%. The average yield of the 10YSGS over one year, from 1 March 2007 to 29 February 2008, plus 1% works out to be 3.75%.
According to the news, CPF Board will only provide a floor of 4% for the Special, Medisave and Retirement Accounts rate for 2008 & 2009 only. The 4% will be lifted after 2 years, and the 2.5% floor rate will apply for all CPF accounts thereafter.
In view that the average yield of 10YSGS from Mar 07 to Feb 08 is only 2.75%, I'm kinda worry about this lower rate.
Furthermore, remember that last year, CPF Board encourage members to transfer their OA to SA and earn a 4% steady yearly compound interest seems to be no longer valid after 2010.
Care to share you comments?
http://mycpf.cpf.gov.sg/CPF/News/News-Release/N_10Mar2008.htm
REPLY
I recommend the following:
1. Transfer your OA to SA to earn a higher rate of interest
2. Do not worry that the interest rate will drop below 4% as you still getting 1% higher than the market rate for govt bonds
3. I expect the interest rate to increase, due to higher inflation.
4. If you wish to earn a higher return on your OA, I suggest a low cost diversified fund.
See this FAQ:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/savings.html
CPF Life Annuity
Hello Mr. Tan
I am 59 years of age and am interested in participating in the CPF annuity scheme. As I have full faith in our government and when given the choice, I will always opt for a government managed program than a private company's.
However, I have been told by a CPF counter staff that the details are still being finalised and that this program will only start in 2013. I am not sure if the staff has given me the right information - why would the government take such a long time to start this program? I wouldn't know if 2013 will be too late for me.
REPLY
The CPF Lfe Annuity scheme is intended for people who reach age 50 in a few years time. You exceed this age. So, it is not intended for you.
You can leave your money in the CPF retirement fund to be drawn down in installments. It will earn an attractive rate of interest, currently at 4% plus 1% bonus on $40,000.
You can buy a life annuity from a private insurance company with your personal savings.
I am 59 years of age and am interested in participating in the CPF annuity scheme. As I have full faith in our government and when given the choice, I will always opt for a government managed program than a private company's.
However, I have been told by a CPF counter staff that the details are still being finalised and that this program will only start in 2013. I am not sure if the staff has given me the right information - why would the government take such a long time to start this program? I wouldn't know if 2013 will be too late for me.
REPLY
The CPF Lfe Annuity scheme is intended for people who reach age 50 in a few years time. You exceed this age. So, it is not intended for you.
You can leave your money in the CPF retirement fund to be drawn down in installments. It will earn an attractive rate of interest, currently at 4% plus 1% bonus on $40,000.
You can buy a life annuity from a private insurance company with your personal savings.
Two layer upfront charge
If you invest in a regular premium investment linked product (which is commonly sold in the market), you are hit with a two layer upfront charge, namely:
a) Distribution charge
b) Spread
The distribution charge is the proportion of the premium that is taken away from your savings during the first few years. Typically, this proportion is about 80% during the first year, 50% in the second year and 25% in the third and fourth years. The total taken away is 180% of the annual premium.
If you invest $500 a month, the amount taken away during the first 4 years is 180% of $500 X 12 or more than $10,000. This is the money that is taken away from your savings to pay commisison to the agent and other marketing expenses.
The net amount that is invested is subject to another upfront charge, called the spread. This could be as high as 5% of the invested amount.
For example, if you invest $500 a month during the first year, only 20% or $100 is invested each month. This invested sum has to buy the units at a spread of 5%. This is another upfront charge. After taking away this charge, the actual amount that is invested is only $95. You pay $500 and only get units worth $95.
If you are buying a regular premium ILP, you should ask about these two layer upfront charge. It is too costly. I advise you to avoid this type of investment.
a) Distribution charge
b) Spread
The distribution charge is the proportion of the premium that is taken away from your savings during the first few years. Typically, this proportion is about 80% during the first year, 50% in the second year and 25% in the third and fourth years. The total taken away is 180% of the annual premium.
If you invest $500 a month, the amount taken away during the first 4 years is 180% of $500 X 12 or more than $10,000. This is the money that is taken away from your savings to pay commisison to the agent and other marketing expenses.
The net amount that is invested is subject to another upfront charge, called the spread. This could be as high as 5% of the invested amount.
For example, if you invest $500 a month during the first year, only 20% or $100 is invested each month. This invested sum has to buy the units at a spread of 5%. This is another upfront charge. After taking away this charge, the actual amount that is invested is only $95. You pay $500 and only get units worth $95.
If you are buying a regular premium ILP, you should ask about these two layer upfront charge. It is too costly. I advise you to avoid this type of investment.
Low cost products
What are the low cost products?
They are:
a) Low cost insurance, i.e. term insurance
b) Low cost, diversified fund
Find out more from this FAQ:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/low.html
They are:
a) Low cost insurance, i.e. term insurance
b) Low cost, diversified fund
Find out more from this FAQ:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/low.html
Financial planning for the young
I recommends that a young person should save 15% of the earnings. This FAQ shows how this saving rate can contribute towards an income after retirement at age 65:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/finplan.html
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/finplan.html
Tuesday, April 01, 2008
Alternative Investments
Alternative investments are hedge funds, managed futures and managed currency funds. The proponent of this asset class argues that it is not correlated to the traditional asset classes, for example, they can move in the opposite direction to equities.
This is suitable for short term investors, including professional fund managers, who are required to avoid showing a portfolio loss during a year.
For a long term investor, it is better to take the volatility and benefit from the average higher return over the long term. There is no point in investing in equities and than offsetting them by alternative investments. This strategy incurs high costs and reduces the return to the long term investor. It gives good fees to the professionals (i.e. fund managers).
If the investor wish to avoid volatility, it is better to invest in fixed income bonds, and accept a lower long term return. Do not invest in complicated structured products (including alternative investments) that gives you an even lower return.
This is suitable for short term investors, including professional fund managers, who are required to avoid showing a portfolio loss during a year.
For a long term investor, it is better to take the volatility and benefit from the average higher return over the long term. There is no point in investing in equities and than offsetting them by alternative investments. This strategy incurs high costs and reduces the return to the long term investor. It gives good fees to the professionals (i.e. fund managers).
If the investor wish to avoid volatility, it is better to invest in fixed income bonds, and accept a lower long term return. Do not invest in complicated structured products (including alternative investments) that gives you an even lower return.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Benefit, insight, honesty
Dear Mr Tan,
I have been reading the articles on your site and found them to be of great benefit, insight and honesty. I wish to commend you on your efforts which many of us could certainly benefit from.
I have been reading the articles on your site and found them to be of great benefit, insight and honesty. I wish to commend you on your efforts which many of us could certainly benefit from.
Amazing Numbers
Try this puzzle:
http://www.tankinlian.com/amazing/index.html
Do you want to know the secret behind the Amazing Numbers? Send an e-mail to me. If you know the secret, you can make the cards (using the numbers from my website) and amaze your friends!
http://www.tankinlian.com/amazing/index.html
Do you want to know the secret behind the Amazing Numbers? Send an e-mail to me. If you know the secret, you can make the cards (using the numbers from my website) and amaze your friends!
Walk half of the distance
You are in a large hall. There is a pretty girl at the other end of the hall. You are old that it takes 10 seconds to walk half of the distance to the girl, another 10 seconds to walk half of the remaining distance, another 10 seconds to walk half of the remaining distance, and so on. How long will it take you to reach the girl?
Most people will say that you will never reach the girl. No matter where you are, it will take 10 seconds to walk half of the remaining distance.
What is the practical answer?
Most people will say that you will never reach the girl. No matter where you are, it will take 10 seconds to walk half of the remaining distance.
What is the practical answer?
Asset Allocation
Dear Mr. Tan,
I read a comment in the blog from someone who said that a long term investor should look at asset allocation, which accounts for most of the yield. Can you explain this concept?
REPLY
Asset allocation means choosing the class of assets to invest in. The main classes are:
a) Equity
b) Bonds
c) Property
d) Cash
Within each class, there are sub-classes to choose from, e.g. different markets or sectors.
If you are focusing on asset allocation, you are giving less emphasis on stock selection, i.e. choosing the specific shares or bonds within the sub-class. You can invest in a fund that is invested in many shares or bonds within the sub-class. This is called diversification.
For a long term investor, the yield on equity is higher than bonds. I advice long term investors to invest in equities and ride out the volatility, i.e. average out the good and bad years.
Read this FAQ to get some information about the long term yield on various asset classes:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/savings.html
For my long term investments, I prefer to invest in Singapore equities, e.g STI ETF or in global equities, e.g. S&P 500. The S&P 500 are the largest US companies, which have global operations. I prefer indexed funds, as they have low charges.
I read a comment in the blog from someone who said that a long term investor should look at asset allocation, which accounts for most of the yield. Can you explain this concept?
REPLY
Asset allocation means choosing the class of assets to invest in. The main classes are:
a) Equity
b) Bonds
c) Property
d) Cash
Within each class, there are sub-classes to choose from, e.g. different markets or sectors.
If you are focusing on asset allocation, you are giving less emphasis on stock selection, i.e. choosing the specific shares or bonds within the sub-class. You can invest in a fund that is invested in many shares or bonds within the sub-class. This is called diversification.
For a long term investor, the yield on equity is higher than bonds. I advice long term investors to invest in equities and ride out the volatility, i.e. average out the good and bad years.
Read this FAQ to get some information about the long term yield on various asset classes:
http://www.tankinlian.com/faq/savings.html
For my long term investments, I prefer to invest in Singapore equities, e.g STI ETF or in global equities, e.g. S&P 500. The S&P 500 are the largest US companies, which have global operations. I prefer indexed funds, as they have low charges.
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Investing at a low level
Hi Mr. Tan,
I read your comment about two weeks ago, when someone asked you if it is all safe to invest in the stockmarket. You said that for a long term investor, the market represents good value as it is 30% below its recent peak.
I decided to take the plunge and invest my cash at that level over a few days. My investments have shown an appreciation of over 5%. Thank you for your good advice.
REPLY
Congratulations on making a good investment decision. The market is still quite uncertain and volatile, so you should be prepared in case there are some negative surprises over the next few weeks.
Do not be worried about the volatility, provided that you are well diversified. I hope that you have invested in a low cost, diversified fund, such as the STI ETF. If you are investing for the long term, you will ride over the current downturn.
I read your comment about two weeks ago, when someone asked you if it is all safe to invest in the stockmarket. You said that for a long term investor, the market represents good value as it is 30% below its recent peak.
I decided to take the plunge and invest my cash at that level over a few days. My investments have shown an appreciation of over 5%. Thank you for your good advice.
REPLY
Congratulations on making a good investment decision. The market is still quite uncertain and volatile, so you should be prepared in case there are some negative surprises over the next few weeks.
Do not be worried about the volatility, provided that you are well diversified. I hope that you have invested in a low cost, diversified fund, such as the STI ETF. If you are investing for the long term, you will ride over the current downturn.
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