Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Getting medical treatment
Here are some tips to consumers on whether to buy basic Medishield or a private Shield policy to meet the high cost of medical treatment and why a more expensive Shield plan will usually require the consumer to incur a higher co-payment for the medical bill. Read: www.tankinlian.com/latest/aspx.
A few senior moments
As we grow older, it is time to celebrate the occasion - even though we may lose some of our hearing and memory. Here are some humorous situations to laugh at. Go to www.tankinlian.com/latest.aspx
Whole Life vs Term Insurance
Watch this youtube video to explain why you should buy term insurance and invest the difference.
Asking for Advice
Here is a guide for you to seek advice from an adviser on a financial, medical or legal matter. Be prepared to pay a fee for the time spent. You can reduce the time that is spent by doing your homework and presenting the facts in an organised format to the adviser.
You should also follow this guide if you wish to seek free assistance from me under "Ask Mr. Tan". Read www.tankinlian.com/latest.aspx.
You should also follow this guide if you wish to seek free assistance from me under "Ask Mr. Tan". Read www.tankinlian.com/latest.aspx.
The Notebook Mall
I wanted to have a flat screen monitor for my old PC. I searched www.thenotebookmall.com and found someone willing to sell it at half of the price of a new monitor. He bought the monitor at a PC show and did not use it. The owner was glad to find a buyer. I was glad to have a flat screen monitor at a good price.
Portable mini-projector
I am looking for a portable mini-projector (new or used). It is to be used to project from a notebook to a wall for a small meeting. Any suggestion? Send to kinlian@gmail.com
Buy or rent a property?
This article gives the advantages and disadvantages of owning a property. Many people have the option to rent a property when the prices are too high.
Need to stabilize property prices
A country can be prosperous when the property prices increase, reflecting confidence of the citizens and foreigners in the country. However, this situation can get out of hand, resulting in an asset bubble and property that became priced out of reach of the citizens. This harmful impact is recognized in China, and steps are being taken to address this problem. Prime Minister Wen Jiabao said, "“It is the key responsibility of all levels of governments to stabilize housing prices and to guarantee availability of housing”. He did not say that this matter is beyond the control of the government and can be left to the market forces.
A property bubble can also be caused by excessive speculation as the speculators made big profits at the expense of the desperate home owners.
Singapore's prosperity is also largely built on an asset bubble. We have to be prepared for the economic consequences when the bubble burst.
A property bubble can also be caused by excessive speculation as the speculators made big profits at the expense of the desperate home owners.
Singapore's prosperity is also largely built on an asset bubble. We have to be prepared for the economic consequences when the bubble burst.
Monday, September 13, 2010
FISCA Talk - Invest for the Long Term
This talk attracted many participants last month. It will now be repeated.
Invest for the long term SMU - School of Business (Seminar Room 3.1 - Level 3)
Date: 25 September 2010, Saturday 03:00 PM
This event is available to all FiSCA members at a special members price of $20. The public can participate at a price of $30 per person. We encourage the public to join as FiSCA members as the annual fee for members is only $36.
An outline of the talk:
Invest for the long term SMU - School of Business (Seminar Room 3.1 - Level 3)
Date: 25 September 2010, Saturday 03:00 PM
This event is available to all FiSCA members at a special members price of $20. The public can participate at a price of $30 per person. We encourage the public to join as FiSCA members as the annual fee for members is only $36.
An outline of the talk:
- Principles of long term investing, compounding and dollar cost averaging
- Earn a better yield by investing in equities
- Reduce risk by investing for the long term in a low cost, diversified fund
- How to access information from the SGX website
- How to get information about ETFs, REITS and blue chip shares (with high dividend yield)
- How to open an account with a stockbroker (using a remisier or an online account)
- Expenses of investing
Non-disclosure of existing medical condition
A consumer took a private Shield policy. His claim for medical treatment was rejected due to "non-disclosure" of medical condition. However, he did honestly declare all that he knew. There were conditions that were not explained to him by the doctor, but was not used to reject the medical claim. One condition was diabetes mellitus.
When he went for a health checkup in the polyclinic, he was not told that his diabetes had reached a serious stage that require medical treatment. In fact, he was not placed on medication. His non-disclosure of this condition was used to reject a subsequent claim for a condition that is not related to his condition. I am now helping the consumer to gather evidence that he was not concealing any information.
But it is quite stressful for him to be saddled with a hospital bill of $7,000 that was not paid. If this was not covered, he would have gone for treatment in B2 ward and pay a much lower bill. Sometimes, the existence of an expensive medical insurance policy creates more problem to the consumer.
When he went for a health checkup in the polyclinic, he was not told that his diabetes had reached a serious stage that require medical treatment. In fact, he was not placed on medication. His non-disclosure of this condition was used to reject a subsequent claim for a condition that is not related to his condition. I am now helping the consumer to gather evidence that he was not concealing any information.
But it is quite stressful for him to be saddled with a hospital bill of $7,000 that was not paid. If this was not covered, he would have gone for treatment in B2 ward and pay a much lower bill. Sometimes, the existence of an expensive medical insurance policy creates more problem to the consumer.
Survey: Shuttle service to integrated resorts
Do you support the sudden decision of the Casino Regulatory Authority to stop the shuttle service? Take part in the survey in www.easyapps.sg/sgep/latest.aspx
Case Study - Medishield for the elderly
Look at this case study of how Medishield can save 80% of the premium that is charged by a private Shield insurance. The elderly person needs to pay only $534 a year, instead of $3,000. Go to www.tankinlian.com/latest.aspx.
Twisting of existing life insurance policies
Dear Mr Tan,
I read your blog (http://tankinlian.blogspot.
I listened to the agent's explanation how the new policy is more economically beneficial. In summary, the total premium i have to pay under this new policy is $25k less, yet the coverage is $50k more than what I have for my 2 existing policies added up together. Also the guaranteed surrender value of the new policy at e.g. age of 65 yrs is $20k more than my 2 existing policies added up, which means this new policy break even much earlier than my existing policies. Prima facie, the economic analysis seems to make alot of sense to switch to this new policy.
However, to terminate my 2 existing policies, i will lose $6k in total because both are less than 5 years. It is a dilemma now, whether to take the short term hit losing $6k vs the longer term benefit which are in tens of thousands.
I hence spoke to a friend who was an ex insurance agent for an independent advice. This is what he told me:
1) When I terminate policies, some items will lose coverage for a period eg cancer which kicks in only a few months after a new policy is bought. So I will have an 'exposure' period.
2) Insurance products are always improving, so I am never gonna be getting the best
3) Returns from insurance policies are just nominal, so the returns doesnt matter that much. I should focus my attention on seeking returns from investments, rather than 'optimising' the returns from my insurance policy.
I hope to seek your expert advice on this topic, whether switching to the new product is indeed beneficial for me.
REPLY
You can send the benefit illustration for the three policies to me.
Generally, it is bad idea to terminate an existing policy to take up a new policy, as you will be incurring the upfront cost (1 to 2 years of your premium) all over again. When an agent advise you to take up a new policy to replace an existing policy, the agent is "twisting" the policy. This is almost always at the expense of the consumer. Some agents can make a good living by adopting this type of predatory practice. It is easy to mislead the consumer by pointing out some half truths. It is considered to be illegal in some countries, but not the case in Singapore, due to our lax regulations.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Holes in medical coverage
Read this article.
My view
Consumers in Singapore may face the same type of difficulty when the insurance company suspects that they have not declared pre-existing illness.
My view
Consumers in Singapore may face the same type of difficulty when the insurance company suspects that they have not declared pre-existing illness.
Twisting a Life Insurance Policy
A life insurance agent will get a consumer to stop an existing policy and take up a new policy for its "better benefits". This is an unethical practice called "twisting". The consumer is usually fooled by the agent and suffers a large loss in taking this bad decision. Read this FAQ to learn how to avoid being fooled.
Voting in the general election [3]
Do you wish to find out how other people will be voting in the next general election? Give your views in this survey, so that the results can be shown to all. Go to www.easyapps.sg/sgep/latest.aspx.
Essential reading for young people [2]
I have a list of essential FAQs that must be read by young people, before they buy a life insurance policy. It helps them to make the right choice and avoid losing a large part of their life saving in a bad life insurance policy that takes away 40% of their future savings. Read "essential reading: in www.tankinlian.com/latest.aspx.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Tangram apps on Apple Store
You can download my tangram apps on Apple App store. They are called:
- Easy Tangram
- Bright Tangram
The free versions of these apps have 10 shapes. The paid version has 100 shapes (USD 0.99) and will be available by 1 October 2010 (or ealrier).
My friend downloaded them and like the apps. He is helping to tell other people through Facebook and Twitter. Please help me to spread the word around. You can see the videos of these apps here. The apps will be available on Nokia and Windows by 1 December 2010 (tentative).
Portals and websites managed by TKL
I am now managing a few portals and websites. Here are the links for you to bookmark on your browser:
TKL website
Tan Kin Lian
TKL website
Singapore General Election portal
TKL blog
Bright town portal
Easysearch portal
Tan Kin Lian
Tan Kin Lian's website
You can bookmark this page to visit the Tan Kin Lian website for the latest postings on insurance and financial planning: www.tankinlian.com/latest.aspx
Singapore General Election Portal [5]
The SGE portal attracted over 400 visitors yesterday. It has matched the number that visits the TKL website.
This morning, the SGE portal already attracted twice the number of the TKL website. Many people are now visiting this portal daily. You can bookmark this page: www.easyapps.sg/sgep/latest.aspx
This morning, the SGE portal already attracted twice the number of the TKL website. Many people are now visiting this portal daily. You can bookmark this page: www.easyapps.sg/sgep/latest.aspx
Instant Google
Google gets faster.
My view
I like Google for its content, and not for its speed of search. It does not make any difference if the search takes 1 minute later, so long as the content is good.
My view
I like Google for its content, and not for its speed of search. It does not make any difference if the search takes 1 minute later, so long as the content is good.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Property bubble in Malaysia
Diffuse the property bubble before it is too late.
My view
Rising property prices will be a burden to the future generation, especially when jobs are not secure. It is the duty of any government to manage the economic forces, and not leave these matters to be manipulated by some people.
My view
Rising property prices will be a burden to the future generation, especially when jobs are not secure. It is the duty of any government to manage the economic forces, and not leave these matters to be manipulated by some people.
Story of Bright Town - book
The book is now available at www.tankinlian.com/ishop. Each book will be personally signed by the author.
Wage inequality and recession
I wrote a letter about wage inequality and recession. This is the problem faced by America. Singapore will face the same challenge. If wage inequality is not reduced to a more sensible level, we will also face a economic recession or other type of economic and social problems.
www.easyapps.sg/sgep/latest.aspx.
www.easyapps.sg/sgep/latest.aspx.
Singapore General Election Portal [4]
The SGE portal attracted 333 visitors yesterday. This is a high number. It is getting quite popular. I have posted 5 articles today, taken from other blogs and website. They cover issues that are relevant for Signaporeans to consider at the next general election.
Go to www.easyapps.sg/sgep and click on "Latest"
Bookmark this page: www.easyapps.sg/sgep/latest.aspx
Go to www.easyapps.sg/sgep and click on "Latest"
Bookmark this page: www.easyapps.sg/sgep/latest.aspx
Betting - get a fair payout
If you place a bet or visit the casino, you need to know what is a fair payout for your bet. Here are some tips. Go to www.tankinlian.com/latest.aspx. Be savvy, and you can enjoy the bet more.
Thursday, September 09, 2010
SGE Portal [3]
I managed to put up a few articles in the Singapore General Election Portal. Two persons have agreed to help me as Editors. Together, we will put up several new contributions to the portal each day.
Do visit the portal daily. www.easyapps.sg/sgep. Click on "Latest" to see the new postings. You can read the summary of the article, and decide if you wish to read the full article - which is usually in a separate blog or website, or a PDF document.
Do visit the portal daily. www.easyapps.sg/sgep. Click on "Latest" to see the new postings. You can read the summary of the article, and decide if you wish to read the full article - which is usually in a separate blog or website, or a PDF document.
Customer Service - contact number
Richard Branson talked about companies that make it difficult for customers to contact them. This is true. Many companies bury their contact number in obscure places in their website - so that customers will not call them. How bad. http://www.todayonline.com/Commentary/EDC100909-0000080/Online,-its-the-second-impression-that-counts
Case Study - critical illness policy for 50 year old
Read the case study of a critical illness policy taken by a 50 year old.
www.tankinlian.com/latest.aspx
It gives poor value to the consumer. A better approach is described in this FAQ.
www.tankinlian.com/latest.aspx
It gives poor value to the consumer. A better approach is described in this FAQ.
SGE Portal [2]
The Singapore General Election Portal now has a section called "Letters from Citizens". You can click on Guide tab to read the instructions on how you can submit a letter to this portal. I hope that it will encourage more citizens to take an interest in the issues that will be raised at the next General Election. Go to:
www.easyapps.sg/sgep (click on Guide or Latest)
www.easyapps.sg/sgep (click on Guide or Latest)
Wednesday, September 08, 2010
Story of Bright Town
Here are the short summaries from 3 people who read the book:
―As governments around the world are looking for better
ways to serve their people, why not develop e-centers that
are based on the concept of this book. The greatest strength
of these e-centers is that they are easy to use even for
people who are not Internet savvy. In addition, they
provide business opportunities for shop keepers who
operate these e-centers. Mr. Tan has truly come up with a
win-win solution for the government and the people.‖
— Dr. Tommy Wong (author of “Wisdom on How to
Live Life” )
―I liked the idea of shifting the burden of form data entry
from customers to government employees. We live in the
world that tries to become more and more efficient by
making people specialize in one or two particular activities.
Hence it's surprising that the government still wants us to
become experts in tax filing, medical insurance
reimbursements, i.e. things that would far more efficiently
done by experts.‖
— Dr.Vitali Zagarodnov, university professor
―The idea of using PDF format as a way of delivering
information is quite an interesting concept. Something
different from the usual HTML concept.‖
— Tan Boon Keng, I.T. security consultant
The soft copy of the book is available here:
http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=165
―As governments around the world are looking for better
ways to serve their people, why not develop e-centers that
are based on the concept of this book. The greatest strength
of these e-centers is that they are easy to use even for
people who are not Internet savvy. In addition, they
provide business opportunities for shop keepers who
operate these e-centers. Mr. Tan has truly come up with a
win-win solution for the government and the people.‖
— Dr. Tommy Wong (author of “Wisdom on How to
Live Life” )
―I liked the idea of shifting the burden of form data entry
from customers to government employees. We live in the
world that tries to become more and more efficient by
making people specialize in one or two particular activities.
Hence it's surprising that the government still wants us to
become experts in tax filing, medical insurance
reimbursements, i.e. things that would far more efficiently
done by experts.‖
— Dr.Vitali Zagarodnov, university professor
―The idea of using PDF format as a way of delivering
information is quite an interesting concept. Something
different from the usual HTML concept.‖
— Tan Boon Keng, I.T. security consultant
The soft copy of the book is available here:
http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=165
Singapore General Election Portal (SGE Portal) - 3 postings
There are 3 postings in the portal. You can view them by clicking on "Latest". This is just a start. When more contributors and editors come forward to help, the portal will have a few new postings daily. Do make it a point to visit this portal daily. www.easyapps.sg/sgep
Critical illness insurance - is it essential?
Many people are troubled by this question - is it essential to get critical illness insurance?
My answer is, "buy critical illness insurance, only if you can get it at a low cost, such as the cover provided by the SAF insurance scheme. Do not pay a lot of money for this cover".
Why?
Read this FAQ - http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=173
My answer is, "buy critical illness insurance, only if you can get it at a low cost, such as the cover provided by the SAF insurance scheme. Do not pay a lot of money for this cover".
Why?
Read this FAQ - http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=173
Tuesday, September 07, 2010
Bundle Offers in i-Shop
There are a few attractive bundle offers in i-Shop, giving discounts of up to 40%.
Rechargeable Torchlights (with locator lamp) Watch video.
If you have any of the books in the bundle, you can give them away or sell them to a friend - and enjoy the discount.
Singapore General Election Portal
I announce the soft launch of the Singapore General Election Portal. It can be access from any of the following:
Easysearch portal: www.easysearch.sg
Direct link: www.easyapps.sg/sgep
You can visit the portal now, click on "Latest" tab, to view a few contributions. I hope that there will be a few contributions daily.
I invite contributors to send relevant materials to sgeportal@gmail.com. They will be retrieved by my editors to be added to the portal. Contributors can do research about the results of past general elections to be written in articles in PDF format, to be added to the portal.You can download a PDF guide on the portal here.
I wish to ask for volunteers to be contributors and editors of this portal.
Easysearch portal: www.easysearch.sg
Direct link: www.easyapps.sg/sgep
You can visit the portal now, click on "Latest" tab, to view a few contributions. I hope that there will be a few contributions daily.
I invite contributors to send relevant materials to sgeportal@gmail.com. They will be retrieved by my editors to be added to the portal. Contributors can do research about the results of past general elections to be written in articles in PDF format, to be added to the portal.You can download a PDF guide on the portal here.
I wish to ask for volunteers to be contributors and editors of this portal.
Downloads of Tangram apps
There were 1,172 downloads of my apps (Easy Tangram and Bright Tangram) over the past two days, around the world. This is much higher than I expected!
More details here:
I hope that this will be translated into the downloads of my paid version (USD 0.99, 100 shapres), which will be available soon.
Essential knowledge for young people
I list down the FAQs that are essential for a young person to read before they buy a life insurance policy soon after starting work.
www.tankinlian.com/latest.aspx (Search for "essential knowledge")
http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=172
www.tankinlian.com/latest.aspx (Search for "essential knowledge")
http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=172
Half truths about Life Insurance
A life insurance agent uses several statements that are half truths to fool a consumer to buy a whole life or investment linked policy that takes away too much of the accumulated savings of the consumer. Read about these statements in www.tankinlian.com/ask.aspx. Search for "half truths".
http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=170
http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=170
Allow members to opt out of CPF Life
To CPF
I note that for those age below 54, they will automatically be enrolled in CPF life when they turn 55. While I think CPF Life is a good scheme to ensure Singaporeans have some savings they can tap on when they are old, it may not be an efficient way of allocating hard earn money for some members.
I am a Certified Financial Planner since 2006 and have been in the investment management industry for 20 years. I have a well diversified portfolio and I am comfortable that my wife and I can retire from active work life anytime we may chose to do so. We think we can do better in allocating the CPF monies we have accumulated.
I am sure many members have their retirement plan well thought out and executed. Some members might want to use the CPF monies to start their own small business to provide income for their future. Some may see investing in their kids education a better alternative. I understand perfectly that the CPF Life scheme requires the law of large numbers for it to work but I think it is not fair to force members to be in the scheme if they have better uses and needs for their monies.
I think the scheme should allow for opt out, as long as members can argue for their decisions. To attract more members to stay with the scheme, perhaps the government should chip in to make the scheme attractive (compared to say members investing in private sector annuity scheme). Failing which, the government should set up a fund to provide for any shortfalls of the scheme. Please do not use hard earned monies of some members to fund other members, which I see the CPF Life scheme is all about.
HCM
I note that for those age below 54, they will automatically be enrolled in CPF life when they turn 55. While I think CPF Life is a good scheme to ensure Singaporeans have some savings they can tap on when they are old, it may not be an efficient way of allocating hard earn money for some members.
I am a Certified Financial Planner since 2006 and have been in the investment management industry for 20 years. I have a well diversified portfolio and I am comfortable that my wife and I can retire from active work life anytime we may chose to do so. We think we can do better in allocating the CPF monies we have accumulated.
I am sure many members have their retirement plan well thought out and executed. Some members might want to use the CPF monies to start their own small business to provide income for their future. Some may see investing in their kids education a better alternative. I understand perfectly that the CPF Life scheme requires the law of large numbers for it to work but I think it is not fair to force members to be in the scheme if they have better uses and needs for their monies.
I think the scheme should allow for opt out, as long as members can argue for their decisions. To attract more members to stay with the scheme, perhaps the government should chip in to make the scheme attractive (compared to say members investing in private sector annuity scheme). Failing which, the government should set up a fund to provide for any shortfalls of the scheme. Please do not use hard earned monies of some members to fund other members, which I see the CPF Life scheme is all about.
HCM
View problems in perspective
Here are three responses to SM Goh's speech:
Lucky Tan
Singapore Notes
Singapore Recalictrant
My view
Different people have different perspectives, because they are affected by circumstances in different ways. For most people, they do not earn enough and the cost of living is too high. Their perspective is to struggle daily and feel the discomfort of crowded trains and buses and the stress of life. It is quite different from the perspective of government leaders who earn high salaries and perks, and receive the comfort given by their subordinates.
Lucky Tan
Singapore Notes
Singapore Recalictrant
My view
Different people have different perspectives, because they are affected by circumstances in different ways. For most people, they do not earn enough and the cost of living is too high. Their perspective is to struggle daily and feel the discomfort of crowded trains and buses and the stress of life. It is quite different from the perspective of government leaders who earn high salaries and perks, and receive the comfort given by their subordinates.
Buying a property
Here are 10 steps to follow
My view
Many people fail to follow most of these steps. They go to a property launch and listen to the sales talk of the well dressed property agent. The agent tell them that the prices are going up, and get the buyer to sign an option on the spot. None of these steps were followed. The buyer must avoid going to property launches, especially if they have not done any homework.
My view
Many people fail to follow most of these steps. They go to a property launch and listen to the sales talk of the well dressed property agent. The agent tell them that the prices are going up, and get the buyer to sign an option on the spot. None of these steps were followed. The buyer must avoid going to property launches, especially if they have not done any homework.
Passwords
Beef up your password strength
A strong password isn't your strongest security
My view
I agree with the second article. A complicated password that is changed regularly actually caused problem to the user. The user has to keep several dozen passwords for various logins. If they keep changing, it is difficult to keep track. The security consultants who recommend changing passwords are not practical people. They make life difficult to earn consultancy fees.
A strong password isn't your strongest security
My view
I agree with the second article. A complicated password that is changed regularly actually caused problem to the user. The user has to keep several dozen passwords for various logins. If they keep changing, it is difficult to keep track. The security consultants who recommend changing passwords are not practical people. They make life difficult to earn consultancy fees.
Monday, September 06, 2010
Metaphor
What is a metaphor?
My view
I was quite surprised that a person could be arrested just for using what is word like "burn". Nobody pays attention to these statements - except the police who make the address for "inciting violence". How can an unknown person incite other people? Who is so gullible to follow his call, even if he had meant the word "burn" literally?
My view
I was quite surprised that a person could be arrested just for using what is word like "burn". Nobody pays attention to these statements - except the police who make the address for "inciting violence". How can an unknown person incite other people? Who is so gullible to follow his call, even if he had meant the word "burn" literally?
Consumer banking and Teaching
A undergraduate approached me for advice. She will be graduating in a few months time, and has been offered a job in the Consumer Banking department. Her job was to stand by the ATM machine and to sell insurance products to the customers who went to withdraw money. She has to meet sales targets. She is worried about having to do this type of work and does not know if she can meet the sales target.
As a foreign student on scholarship, she is required to serve at three years bond to work in Singapore. Her career choices are limited. She does not know what to do. I advised her to consider taking a job in teaching.
As a foreign student on scholarship, she is required to serve at three years bond to work in Singapore. Her career choices are limited. She does not know what to do. I advised her to consider taking a job in teaching.
Google Translate
I received a circulate letter written in Chinese, complaining about a life insurance policy. I used Google Translate to translate it into English. I was amazed. Google Translate did the work in a few seconds. The translation was perfect.
I used Google Translate previously to translate from European language to English. This is the first time that I did for Chinese. Wow!
I used Google Translate previously to translate from European language to English. This is the first time that I did for Chinese. Wow!
Fooled by insurance savings plan
Read this letter about the anguish of a consumer who has been fooled by an insurance savings plan sold by an agent at a road show.
www.tankinlian.com/latest.aspx (see "Fooled")
http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=171
www.tankinlian.com/latest.aspx (see "Fooled")
http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=171
Buy Term and Invest The Rest
A consumer ask why some people are recommending to "buy term and invest the rest". He was told that it is better to buy a whole life policy, as the premium will not increase as one gets older. The answer is given in this article.
www.tankinlian.com/latest.asp, search for "Buy Term".
www.tankinlian.com/latest.asp, search for "Buy Term".
The reality of property investments
Many people are paying too much for their property, either for own occupation or for rental. They are told by the property agents that the yield is better than interest on bank deposits and that prices will continue to increase further, due to economic growth.
The property agent wishes to talk up the property market, so that more people will invest in properties and they can earn their attractive commission, which can amount to a few thousand dollars.
Investors should realize the facts of property investments:
a) The gross yield on rental may look attractive, say 3% to 4%, but you have to deduct maintenance charges (for condos), repair cost, agent's commission (to rent out the property) and vacancies. The net yield is likely to be less than 2%.
b) The profit made from property is likely to be exaggerated. Many people ignore the cost of investing in property, e.g. stamp duty, lawyer's fees, agent's commission, in computing their profit.
c) Many owners heard that their neighbors were able to sell their property at an attractive price. However, when the put their property in the market, they may have to wait a long time to find a buyer. Some properties are unsold for many years, unless the owner is willing to cut the asking price drastically.
d) Owners are attractive by the high price psf for new properties in the vicinity. They forget that there is a gap of up to 20% between the price psf of old and new properties in the locality. Their property is not likely to achieve the high price psf of new properties.
Do consider these points carefully, and make your research, before you pay a high price to invest in a property.
Read:
http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=124
Tan Kin Lian
The property agent wishes to talk up the property market, so that more people will invest in properties and they can earn their attractive commission, which can amount to a few thousand dollars.
Investors should realize the facts of property investments:
a) The gross yield on rental may look attractive, say 3% to 4%, but you have to deduct maintenance charges (for condos), repair cost, agent's commission (to rent out the property) and vacancies. The net yield is likely to be less than 2%.
b) The profit made from property is likely to be exaggerated. Many people ignore the cost of investing in property, e.g. stamp duty, lawyer's fees, agent's commission, in computing their profit.
c) Many owners heard that their neighbors were able to sell their property at an attractive price. However, when the put their property in the market, they may have to wait a long time to find a buyer. Some properties are unsold for many years, unless the owner is willing to cut the asking price drastically.
d) Owners are attractive by the high price psf for new properties in the vicinity. They forget that there is a gap of up to 20% between the price psf of old and new properties in the locality. Their property is not likely to achieve the high price psf of new properties.
Do consider these points carefully, and make your research, before you pay a high price to invest in a property.
Read:
http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=124
Tan Kin Lian
Sunday, September 05, 2010
Do not sign a form without understanding
Hi Mr. Tan,
I am a 24 year old fresh graduate who has just started working. Recently, I was looking around for a whole life insurance (without an investment linked policy attached to it) and approached a company to ask for a quotation. I asked repeatedly for the proposal document to be sent to me before deciding to sign anything, but the agent had asked me to sign the application first.
I wish to ask if it is a norm in the industry to sign any insurance document on the spot, or is it unreasonable for me to request for the full document before signing anything?
REPLY
You should not sign any document without knowing what it is. There is no such thing as a "norm" to sign a legally binding document blindly. You should consider lodging a complaint against the agent for unethical conduct. Let me know if you wish to take this step. I will help you to write the complaint.
I am a 24 year old fresh graduate who has just started working. Recently, I was looking around for a whole life insurance (without an investment linked policy attached to it) and approached a company to ask for a quotation. I asked repeatedly for the proposal document to be sent to me before deciding to sign anything, but the agent had asked me to sign the application first.
I wish to ask if it is a norm in the industry to sign any insurance document on the spot, or is it unreasonable for me to request for the full document before signing anything?
REPLY
You should not sign any document without knowing what it is. There is no such thing as a "norm" to sign a legally binding document blindly. You should consider lodging a complaint against the agent for unethical conduct. Let me know if you wish to take this step. I will help you to write the complaint.
If you are buying an life insurance policy, you should ask for the benefit illustration. You should read my FAQ on "benefit illustration" to get the key points to look out for - i.e. the distribution cost and the effect of deduction.
See things in perspective
Dear Mr. Tan,
SM Goh ask Singaporeans to see things in perspective. Perhaps, someone can tell him to see things from our perspective. We have to work long hours to earn just enough to pay for the high cost of housing and to travel in crowded trains. I will respect him, if he come and join us in the crowded trains, and then we can see things with the same perspective.
JL
SM Goh ask Singaporeans to see things in perspective. Perhaps, someone can tell him to see things from our perspective. We have to work long hours to earn just enough to pay for the high cost of housing and to travel in crowded trains. I will respect him, if he come and join us in the crowded trains, and then we can see things with the same perspective.
JL
Live on interest income
A retiree needs to earn a decent interest rate to get sufficient income to live on. With the low interest environment, they have to consider other types of investments, rather than bank deposits. But, they face the risk of being sold a toxic product that can cause the total loss of their capital.
For the past many decades, the savvy investor already knows the way to make invest money to get a good yield without taking high risk. They choose blue chip shares (which are relatively secure) that pay high dividends. And these shares also have capital appreciation.
Read the FAQ on "high dividend yields" at www.tankinlian.com/ask.aspx
For the past many decades, the savvy investor already knows the way to make invest money to get a good yield without taking high risk. They choose blue chip shares (which are relatively secure) that pay high dividends. And these shares also have capital appreciation.
Read the FAQ on "high dividend yields" at www.tankinlian.com/ask.aspx
Einstein's Quiz
Albert Einstein created a quiz that has puzzled many people for a few decades. I saw it in the Reader's Digest more than 30 years ago. I could not solve it at that time. I have since discovered the technique of solving the quiz. It requires a systematic approach. By learning this approach, you will also learn how to solve other problems in a systematic way. Read this article:
http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=164
http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=164
Tangram apps on Apple Store
Good news for owners of Apple iPhone and iPod
The free versions of Tangram are now available in Apple Store
The free versions of Tangram are now available in Apple Store
Look for
Easy Tangram Lite
Bright Tangram Lite
Shape Quiz (Easy and Bright versions) will be available soon.
Please download from App store and give me your feedback. Pass the word around for your friends to try.
Watch these videos
The tangram apps are especially fun for children, but they are also challenging for adults and seniors (good to exercise their minds).
The free version has 10 shapes. The paid version (with 100 shapes) will be available from 1 October 2010.
Blog: NTU Chartist
Hi Mr Tan,
I am the owner of the blog www.NTUchartist.blogspot.com . This is a site where I share my views of the economy, opinions of events and even business ideas with fellow netizens.
I was wondering if you would mind adding my link on your blog?
Daniel
Saturday, September 04, 2010
Car and flooding
This reader has an innovative idea on how to save your car from flooding of the basement car park.
http://www.tankinlian.com/Information.aspx?CatID=15
http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=168
http://www.tankinlian.com/Information.aspx?CatID=15
http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=168
Mortgage Loans
Posted at request of Vinod Nair, www.SmartLoans.sg
So you're looking at buying a property and come to realize that you need to get a home loan as well. You call a banks' hotlines, only to speak with a generic customer service rep who's not specialized in home loans. You then wait to be directed to someone who IS a mortgage specialist in the bank, and then have to comprehend a whole lot of mortgage jargon. Even when the banker gives you the rate packages available, you're not sure how exactly it matches up to the other banks and whether you're getting the best deal. Then you call the next bank and go through the same process again.
SmartLoans.sg is Singapore's first Online Mortgage Comparison Platform that allows consumers to directly compare rates and packages from all major banks. All the latest rates and packages are consolidated and available directly onSmartLoans.sg. Our Home Loan Wizard allows you to calculate monthly and cumulative interest payments, and rates them from lowest cumulative interest to highest. You can also set your interest calculation period from 1-3 years also if you plan to refinance your loan in the future.
If you currently have an outstanding mortgage, you can save thousands with SmartLoans.sg. The refinancing calculator helps you calculate exactly how much you stand to save if you refinance your home loan to any of the current packages.
Other LoansSmartLoans also helps you get the best deal for Commercial Property Loans, Renovation Loans, Cash Out Refinancing,Education Loans and Business Loans.
Land at Gerrards Cross, UK
Hello Mr Tan
A company is currently offering land in Gerrards Cross in the UK to investors via Friday evening sales events at some of the major hotels in Singapore and Malaysia. Apparently if you buy land at these events you may get a free Apple IPad computer.
According to this Freedom of Information request below the land being sold is green belt and protected until at least 2026. South Bucks say they have enough land to meet housing requirements until that time.
I wonder if this information which is clearly in the public domain and must be known to the marketeer, is being disclosed to investors at these events ?
SF
According to this Freedom of Information request below the land being sold is green belt and protected until at least 2026. South Bucks say they have enough land to meet housing requirements until that time.
I wonder if this information which is clearly in the public domain and must be known to the marketeer, is being disclosed to investors at these events ?
SF
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
You have a new response to the Freedom of Information request
'Status Of Land In Gerrards Cross' that you made to South Bucks
District Council.
To view the response, click on the link below.
http://www.whatdotheyknow.com/
When you get there, please update the status to say if the response
contains any useful information.
Although all responses are automatically published, we depend on
you, the original requester, to evaluate them.
District Council.
To view the response, click on the link below.
http://www.whatdotheyknow.com/
When you get there, please update the status to say if the response
contains any useful information.
Although all responses are automatically published, we depend on
you, the original requester, to evaluate them.
Family3 for a child
A parent bought a Family3 policy for a child. He was attracted to the limited 10 year payment and the series of cash bonus and survival benefits, but was not aware about the cost of the insurance. Here is an analysis of the policy and the alternative of investing the same sum of money in a low cost investment fund.
Go to www.tankinlian.com/latest.aspx (search for Family3).
Go to www.tankinlian.com/latest.aspx (search for Family3).
What is Talent?
Read this article.
My view
The word "talent" was invented to provide excuse for excessive greed and predatory practices of people earning obscene incomes, e.g. the talented people who created the derivative products and swaps or professionals who charge excessive fees. It was also used to fool the local people to accept foreigners to work in Singapore on favorable terms, while the locals have to bear the burden of national service.
My view
The word "talent" was invented to provide excuse for excessive greed and predatory practices of people earning obscene incomes, e.g. the talented people who created the derivative products and swaps or professionals who charge excessive fees. It was also used to fool the local people to accept foreigners to work in Singapore on favorable terms, while the locals have to bear the burden of national service.
Insurance CEO quits
Read this report
My view
It is important for the top leadership of a life insurance company to be stable, so that their policyholders can some measure of certainty on their long term savings. If the top leaders can "jump ship" or make changes to established practices, the uncertainty will be bad for the policyholders. To avoid this uncertainty, consumers should take control of their long term savings, by investing in a transparent, flexible fund. They should avoid locking their savings in a insurance policy that has a high penalty on withdrawal.
Read my book, Practical Guide on Financial planning.
My view
It is important for the top leadership of a life insurance company to be stable, so that their policyholders can some measure of certainty on their long term savings. If the top leaders can "jump ship" or make changes to established practices, the uncertainty will be bad for the policyholders. To avoid this uncertainty, consumers should take control of their long term savings, by investing in a transparent, flexible fund. They should avoid locking their savings in a insurance policy that has a high penalty on withdrawal.
Read my book, Practical Guide on Financial planning.
Friday, September 03, 2010
Wage inequality
Robert Reich said that to fix the economy, we have to end wage inequality. I agree with his views. If the wage disparity is wide, those at the lower income levels do not have enough money to spend. There is no need to produce the goods. The economy must reduce in size.
Population of 5 million
Read this article.
My view
To achieve the growth in population, there is a need for public services to be expanded as well. I hope that the essential services can now be expanded to match the larger population.
My view
To achieve the growth in population, there is a need for public services to be expanded as well. I hope that the essential services can now be expanded to match the larger population.
5 book bundle [3]
You can buy this bundle of 5 popular books at an attractive discount of 40%. If you have bought some of the books, you can pass them or sell them to a friend. Do not miss this offer. Order at iShop or click on icon at the right panel.
e-Post Office
A citizen complained that the service of Sing Post has turned from good to bad. It is difficult for him to post a letter. He liked Sing Post to provide more letter boxes and collect and deliver mails on weekends.
It is time for us to consider a new way to deliver mail. It is better to have mail delivered through an e-Post Office. Read about this idea in The Bright Town story here. Here is the prototype of the Bright Town portal.
It is time for us to consider a new way to deliver mail. It is better to have mail delivered through an e-Post Office. Read about this idea in The Bright Town story here. Here is the prototype of the Bright Town portal.
Focus on core services, SingPost
Letter published in St Times Online
I REFER to Monday's letter by Mr Andrew Soh ("SingPost should focus on core services") and regret to say that our postal service is going from good to bad.
Since I wrote about having to walk 800m and climb two overhead bridges to post a letter and to solve the mailing woes of condominium residents last year, SingPost removed that mailbox in River Valley Grove early this year for no apparent reason.
Now I have to walk a longer distance to post a letter. I still believe that collecting and delivering ordinary mail from condo residents increases productivity.
The stated mission of SingPost on its website is to provide services for its customers through the most reliable and efficient domestic and global networks. I am not sure whether the move to withdraw delivery on Saturday, reducing the number of postboxes and offering declining quality services to customers work towards that mission.
The latest financial report of SingPost revealed that despite its efforts to expand its retail and logistics service businesses to boost revenues, the return was about 45 per cent of its total revenues.
Would it be better if SingPost leaves the retail and logistic services to the respective key business players and focuses on improving its core services for customers?
Perhaps SingPost should ramp up its postal service operation to rival international competitors like DHL and Federal Express.
Paul Chan
http://www.straitstimes.com/STForum/OnlineStory/STIStory_574084.html
My view
It is better for some services to be considered as public services. I will be writing an article about the role of public services, the need to be efficient and operate on cost recovery basis.They should not be turned into profit oriented enterprises.
I REFER to Monday's letter by Mr Andrew Soh ("SingPost should focus on core services") and regret to say that our postal service is going from good to bad.
Since I wrote about having to walk 800m and climb two overhead bridges to post a letter and to solve the mailing woes of condominium residents last year, SingPost removed that mailbox in River Valley Grove early this year for no apparent reason.
Now I have to walk a longer distance to post a letter. I still believe that collecting and delivering ordinary mail from condo residents increases productivity.
The stated mission of SingPost on its website is to provide services for its customers through the most reliable and efficient domestic and global networks. I am not sure whether the move to withdraw delivery on Saturday, reducing the number of postboxes and offering declining quality services to customers work towards that mission.
The latest financial report of SingPost revealed that despite its efforts to expand its retail and logistics service businesses to boost revenues, the return was about 45 per cent of its total revenues.
Would it be better if SingPost leaves the retail and logistic services to the respective key business players and focuses on improving its core services for customers?
Perhaps SingPost should ramp up its postal service operation to rival international competitors like DHL and Federal Express.
Paul Chan
http://www.straitstimes.com/STForum/OnlineStory/STIStory_574084.html
My view
It is better for some services to be considered as public services. I will be writing an article about the role of public services, the need to be efficient and operate on cost recovery basis.They should not be turned into profit oriented enterprises.
Advice to a college bound son
Read this letter from a parent, who is a financial planner.
My view
I hope that many young people will read this letter and follow the good tips.
My view
I hope that many young people will read this letter and follow the good tips.
Thursday, September 02, 2010
Financial Crisis
Relevance of Tommy Wong’s book
Three years ago, the world plunged into the deepest financial crisis since the Great Depression of the 1930s. Will this kind of crisis happen again in the future? To be able to answer this question, you need to understand the mindset of the bankers. To this end, you are recommended to read the chapter “Conversation with Guru Dick” in Tommy Wong’s book “Wisdom on How to Live Life”.
Wireless@SG
I have a lot of trouble in configuring my Android phone to use Wireless@SG. If you found it easy, please write to kinlian@gmail.com
Wednesday, September 01, 2010
Survey - National Day Rally Speech
The survey report has now been updated to show the views of 100 respondents. Go to www.tankinlian.com/information.aspx and search for "Rally"
MS SQL 2008
I need the assistance of an expert to configure MS SQL 2008. Please send e-mail to kinlian@gmail.com.
Singapore Index Fund
The Singapore Index Fund is invested to track the ST Index. This can be bought in SGX like an ETF. I was told that it can also be bought like a unit trust. The annual management fee for this fund is 0.55% (i.e. slightly higher than 0.3% for StateStreet and 0.28% for DBS). However, being a unit trust, it allows smaller quantities to be bought, instead of 1,000 units in an ETF. If you have personal experience in investing in this fund, please share it.
Case study - Family3
In this case study, I analyze the features of a new life insurance policy called the Family3. Go to www.tankinlian.com/ask.aspx and search for "Family3"
Insuring the unexpected
Read my FAQ on "Insuring the Unexpected". It is available at www.tankinlian.com/ask.aspx (search for this title).
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Towering Malaysian of yesteryear
It is interest to read about Malaysians and Singaporeans of the Merdeka generation. They have ideals of a democratic and socially just country that looks after the welfare of the people. Read this story to learn about what are these ideals.
In the mid 1970s, I visited Skrine & Co in Kuala Lumpur on a legal matter. I met James Puthuchery. I knew at that time that he was exiled from Singapore, but did not know his background or his beliefs. It is nice to read about the ideals of this person, more than 35 years later.
In the mid 1970s, I visited Skrine & Co in Kuala Lumpur on a legal matter. I met James Puthuchery. I knew at that time that he was exiled from Singapore, but did not know his background or his beliefs. It is nice to read about the ideals of this person, more than 35 years later.
One angry citizen
Hi Mr Tan,
I deliberately left the house when PM Lee made his National Day Rally speech live because I don't want to end up smashing my TV set. His usual condescending smile/laughter alone to is enough to enrage me.
Reading the transcript later, I'm glad I did what I did. As expected, PM Lee pretends to "understand" the plight of ordinary S'poreans. The fact that he said "if you can't board a train, the next train is just minutes away" betrays his pretentions. It is not just overcrowded trains/buses S'poreans have to endure. The entire infrastructure is bursting at the seam. A significant proportion of primary schools, junior college and university places have been taken up by foreigners/PRs/new citizens. S'poreans place a lot of importance on having a good education, yet the PAP govt doesn't think it necessary to ensure that S'poreans should get absolute priority in this area. MOE's position on P1 registration is baffling. On the one hand it claims all primary schools are equally equiped (thus implying they are of the same standards) and that there are sufficient places for all. Yet it refuses to make PRs queue behind S'poreans for P1 registration.
It is now crowded everywhere. There is shortage of hospital beds, long waiting times at polyclinics, crowded hawker centres, long queues at govt agencies. The list goes on and on. Obviously, our mutli-millionaire ministers are not impacted by these at all. They and their families get priority for everything in this country. They can afford to eat at exclusive restaurants, get first-class medical treatment at private clinics/hospitals, their homes are guarded by burly Gurkha guards, they get special police protection, etc.
I deliberately left the house when PM Lee made his National Day Rally speech live because I don't want to end up smashing my TV set. His usual condescending smile/laughter alone to is enough to enrage me.
Reading the transcript later, I'm glad I did what I did. As expected, PM Lee pretends to "understand" the plight of ordinary S'poreans. The fact that he said "if you can't board a train, the next train is just minutes away" betrays his pretentions. It is not just overcrowded trains/buses S'poreans have to endure. The entire infrastructure is bursting at the seam. A significant proportion of primary schools, junior college and university places have been taken up by foreigners/PRs/new citizens. S'poreans place a lot of importance on having a good education, yet the PAP govt doesn't think it necessary to ensure that S'poreans should get absolute priority in this area. MOE's position on P1 registration is baffling. On the one hand it claims all primary schools are equally equiped (thus implying they are of the same standards) and that there are sufficient places for all. Yet it refuses to make PRs queue behind S'poreans for P1 registration.
It is now crowded everywhere. There is shortage of hospital beds, long waiting times at polyclinics, crowded hawker centres, long queues at govt agencies. The list goes on and on. Obviously, our mutli-millionaire ministers are not impacted by these at all. They and their families get priority for everything in this country. They can afford to eat at exclusive restaurants, get first-class medical treatment at private clinics/hospitals, their homes are guarded by burly Gurkha guards, they get special police protection, etc.
Story of Bright Town
You can get a soft copy of my book, Story of Bright Town. It will be published in Amazon.com. It tells the story about how a fictitious Bright Town introduced a portal to provide e-government services for its citizens. Feel free to download the soft copy and give your feed back to kinlian@gmail.com.
www.tankinlian.com (Latest > Story of Bright Town)
Einstein Quiz - enhanced
Einstein created a logic quiz with 5 houses. It was quite challenging to solve.
I have now created a quiz that uses 7 houses. It has more combination and clues.
Can you solve it?
http://tankinlian.com/Admin/File.aspx?id=20
I have now created a quiz that uses 7 houses. It has more combination and clues.
Can you solve it?
http://tankinlian.com/Admin/File.aspx?id=20
National Day Rally - some views
NATIONAL DAY RALLY
1.
Moving, inclusive speech
SIX years ago, after Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's maiden National Day Rally speech,
I was moved to write a letter to the Forum page ('Govt critic won over by speech'; Aug 25, 2004).
Now, six years later, after listening to his marathon speech
delivered with more panache, pride and a touch of humour,
I am moved once again to offer my gut-feel response.
Patrick Low
http://www.straitstimes.com/
2.
Good work on education front
I AM a third-generation Singaporean. On Sunday, our family of four sat down together
and heard the entire speech by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.
He spoke with passion about improving on Singapore's already 'very good' education system
and offering more choices.
V. Balu
3.
Recognition for NSmen
MS IVY TAN:
I applaud the Government's move to give more concrete recognition to our national servicemen
through a $9,000 National Service Recognition Award.
Fine tribute
MR RONALD LEE:
PM Lee agreed with those who lamented that the younger generation knew so little
about former deputy prime minister Goh Keng Swee.
It was a fitting gesture to name the Singapore Armed Forces' (SAF) premier training institute
and a new education complex after Dr Goh.
YOG connection
MR K.H.K. RANGAN:
I was heartened to note the steps taken by the Government
to nurture students with different abilities
by tapping their varied potential through different avenues and bringing out their best.
Missing element
MADAM MONICA CHIA:
I am encouraged by PM Lee's message that we are slowly gearing towards recognising
and developing the different talents that all of us have.
My Take on the ND Rally ..... ( Lucky Tan )
http://singaporemind.blogspot.
The Speech That Need Not Be Delivered
http://singaporedesk.blogspot.
PM Lee’s National Day Rally Speech 2010 — James Bond is in town!
http://www.sgpolitics.net/?p=
Case study - Investment Link Policy
Read the case study of an investment link policy proposed to a consumer in 2008. It contains some issues raised by consumer - for which I gave the answers.
www.tankinlian.com (Latest tab)
www.tankinlian.com (Latest tab)
Direct link:
Monday, August 30, 2010
National Day Speech - 2010
Telling it as it is.
Take this survey and give your views!
Read the preliminary results of the survey, based on the 49 responses received during the first 12 hours.
Take this survey and give your views!
Read the preliminary results of the survey, based on the 49 responses received during the first 12 hours.
Invest in STI ETF
Read this story about the actual experience of an investor who invested regularly in the STI ETF over the past 6 years.
Go to www.tankinlian.com, and click on "Latest" tab.
Direct link here:
http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=161
Go to www.tankinlian.com, and click on "Latest" tab.
Direct link here:
http://tankinlian.com/admin/file.aspx?id=161
Youth Olympic Games - a success
Here are some positive comments:
YOG'S TRUE GAIN
YOG'S TRUE GAIN
More than just dollars and cents
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Death Penalty
Read this article.
My view
Perhaps, as a first step, we should leave it to the discretion of the judge whether the crime merits the death penalty. It should not be mandatory for the death penalty to be imposed.
My view
Perhaps, as a first step, we should leave it to the discretion of the judge whether the crime merits the death penalty. It should not be mandatory for the death penalty to be imposed.
Danger of Online Gambling
Read this article.
My view
If you gamble online, you do not know if the online website is running the game fairly. You could be cheated!
My view
If you gamble online, you do not know if the online website is running the game fairly. You could be cheated!
FISCA Educational Talks [2]
I gave my 3rd talk on Financial Planning - A Practical Guide on 28 August 2010. It was attended by 35 participants. About half of them were young people, who are interested to know about financial planning - before they buy the wrong financial products!
This turned out to be my most successful talk. I received e-mails from 3 participants expressing their appreciation - more than for my previous talks.
Dear Mr Tan Kin Lian
Thank you for the excellent talk. Here is a photo to share:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ckwongb/4934618020/in/set-72157624824484588/
Note: if you have difficulty to see this photo, try right-click and open a new tab.
I was able to update the talk with my FAQ on "exchange traded funds" and also to give an exercise on how to do the calculations. This made the talk more interesting. I encourage members who have attended the talk before to attend again, and get the new information. You can also attend the talk on "Invest for the Long Term".
www.fisca.sg
This turned out to be my most successful talk. I received e-mails from 3 participants expressing their appreciation - more than for my previous talks.
Dear Mr Tan Kin Lian
Thank you for the excellent talk. Here is a photo to share:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ckwongb/4934618020/in/set-72157624824484588/
Note: if you have difficulty to see this photo, try right-click and open a new tab.
I was able to update the talk with my FAQ on "exchange traded funds" and also to give an exercise on how to do the calculations. This made the talk more interesting. I encourage members who have attended the talk before to attend again, and get the new information. You can also attend the talk on "Invest for the Long Term".
www.fisca.sg
Young and in debt
Young and in debt
My view
Young people should avoid getting into debt, including car loan. The worst is debt on credit card. They have to pay a high interest rate. This is covered in my talk on Financial Planning, arranged under FISCA, www.fisca.sg.
My view
Young people should avoid getting into debt, including car loan. The worst is debt on credit card. They have to pay a high interest rate. This is covered in my talk on Financial Planning, arranged under FISCA, www.fisca.sg.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Mio TV
ORIGINALLY POSTED IN DECEMBER 2009
My friend has a Mio TV. He found it to be rather unsatisfactory. It took a long time to get started. He also has a Starhub cable TV, which was quite easy to use.
He said that he needed two set top boxes (for Mio and Starhub) and two separate TVs (as it s not possible for his TV to receive signals from both set top boxes.
I wonder what is the experience of other Mio TV users? Is it convenient to use? Is t fast to get started?
My friend has a Mio TV. He found it to be rather unsatisfactory. It took a long time to get started. He also has a Starhub cable TV, which was quite easy to use.
He said that he needed two set top boxes (for Mio and Starhub) and two separate TVs (as it s not possible for his TV to receive signals from both set top boxes.
I wonder what is the experience of other Mio TV users? Is it convenient to use? Is t fast to get started?
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