The DollarsAndSense Podcast

DollarsAndSense

The DollarsAndSense podcast brings you deeper conversation within the DollarsAndSense team. Join Dinesh Dayani and Timothy Ho for a weekly discussion on everything that matters to our wallets! If you enjoy reading our articles on DollarsAndSense.sg, we do hope you will enjoy listening to us on this podcast series as well.

  1. Sep 23

    Does Zero-Commission Investing Make It Easier To Stay Invested?| DollarsAndSense Podcast Ep56

    With US markets experiencing sharp swings, how can investors build their portfolios while managing volatility and keeping trading costs low? In this episode of the DollarsAndSense Podcast, host Feng Yi speaks with Vik, Director and Head, Securities Retail Sales at Phillip Securities, about navigating market volatility, dollar-cost averaging, and how zero-commission investing can help investors build their portfolios more cost-efficiently. We also explore the POEMS Cash Plus account, which offers zero commission and zero platform fees for US stock trading, and discuss how investors can evaluate trading costs alongside other factors when making investment decisions. From buying the dip to managing US dividend withholding tax, discover practical insights to help you make more informed investment decisions. Explore zero-commission US stock trading with the POEMS Cash Plus account. 👉 Learn more about POEMS: https://www.poems.com.sg/stock-research/] 👉 Open a POEMS account: [https://www.poems.com.sg/cash-plus/] Disclaimer This material is provided to you for general information only and does not constitute an investment advice, a recommendation, an offer or solicitation to subscribe for, purchase, sell or redeem any investment product or services mentioned herein. It does not have any regard to your specific investment objectives, financial situation or any of your particular needs. Any views or opinions are personal and expression of belief, information may be obtained from public sources which the Company has no reason to believe are unreliable and is subject to changes. Accordingly, no warranty whatsoever is given and no liability whatsoever is accepted for any loss or damages of any kind arising whether directly or indirectly as a result of your reliance or acting based on this information. Investments are subject to investment risks including the possible loss of the principal amount invested. The value of units in any fund and the income from them may fall as well as rise. You should obtain advice from a qualified financial adviser, pursuant to a separate engagement, before making a commitment to purchase the investment product or obtain any of the services mentioned herein. In the event you choose not to obtain advice from a qualified financial adviser, you should assess and consider whether the investment product or services are suitable for you before proceeding to invest. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. Follow us on our socials: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DollarsAndSenseSG Telegram: https://t.me/dollarsandsense Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dnssingapore/ 🎧 Listen to our podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6XkfHXOUXtFWfAWC7q0MwZ?si=c5ce4c58884a4fdb Co-host: https://www.instagram.com/emceefeng/ 📩 Don't forget to subscribe to our e-newsletter for the latest updates: https://dollarsandsensesg.link/dollarsandsensenewsletter

  2. Aug 12

    US SDRs Explained: Investing Beyond Singapore Through SGX | DollarsAndSense Podcast Ep55

    Singapore investors may know SGX for local stocks, but Singapore Depository Receipts (SDRs) offer access to selected overseas-listed companies while still trading in Singapore dollars during SGX market hours. In this episode of the DollarsAndSense Podcast, Feng Yi and Deanna speak with Bernice, SGX’s product manager for SDRs, and Han Hui, a trading representative from UOB Kehian, to explain how SDRs work and where they may fit in a portfolio. They explain what investors actually own, how pricing and conversion ratios work, and how liquidity compares with buying overseas directly, including why trading in SGD does not remove foreign exchange risk. The discussion also explores how SDRs can help diversify into sectors less represented in Singapore. A key takeaway is that being familiar with companies like Grab or Sea as a user is very different from evaluating them as investments, which still requires assessing business models, growth, risks and valuation. Bernice and Han Hui also share when SDRs may be useful, and when investing directly overseas may still be more appropriate. Watch this episode for a clear breakdown of SDRs, the trade-offs involved, and what investors should consider before adding them to a portfolio. 00:35 Investing beyond Singapore through SGX 03:37 What exactly is an SDR? 04:47 Do SDR investors own the underlying shares? 05:43 Understanding conversion ratios 06:39 How an SDR price is calculated 07:32 Why investors may choose SDRs 08:39 Comparing the total cost of investing 09:57 SDR liquidity versus overseas shares 11:01 How Singapore investors are using SDRs 12:40 Why Singapore-dollar trading still has FX risk 13:23 Bite-sized investing and position sizing 16:09 Diversifying beyond Singapore sectors 17:29 Evaluating SpaceX, Sea and Grab as investments 20:50 How retail investors are using SDRs 22:05 SDRs versus investing directly overseas 23:01 The risks investors should understand 25:43 When might an SDR be worth considering? Follow us on our socials: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DollarsAndSenseSG Telegram: https://t.me/dollarsandsense Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dnssingapore/ 🎧 Listen to our podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6XkfHXOUXtFWfAWC7q0MwZ?si=c5ce4c58884a4fdb Co-host: https://www.instagram.com/emceefeng/ https://www.instagram.com/deedeelsm/ 📩 Don't forget to subscribe to our e-newsletter for the latest updates: https://dollarsandsensesg.link/dollarsandsensenewsletter

  3. Aug 5

    CFD Trading Explained: How It Works And What Can Go Wrong | DollarsAndSense Markets S2 E2

    CFDs allow traders to take advantage of short-term market movements, whether prices are rising or falling. They can also be used to access global markets, trade with leverage or hedge an existing investment portfolio. However, CFD trading is very different from long-term investing. While leverage can give you greater market exposure with less upfront capital, it can also amplify your losses when a trade moves against you. In this episode of DollarsAndSense Markets, Alex Furber, Head of Client Engagement at Maybank Securities, explains how CFD trading works, why traders use it and the risks that investors need to understand. We also discuss going long and short, trading around market news, managing margin calls and why discipline may be more important than correctly predicting every trade. CFDs can be a useful tool, but they should never be treated as a shortcut to making quick money. 00:00 Introduction 03:25 What Is CFD Trading? 04:18 Common Misconceptions About CFDs 05:36 Why Do Traders Use CFDs? 10:28 Using CFDs For Short-Term Trading 14:46 How Leverage Works In CFD Trading 16:18 Accessing Global Markets And Going Long Or Short 20:05 The Biggest Risks Of CFD Trading 22:23 Practical Risk Management Strategies 27:29 Who Is CFD Trading Suitable For? This Markets season is proudly brought to you in collaboration with Maybank Securities. Disclaimer: This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. For general information only and do not constitute an inducement, recommendation, offer, or solicitation to buy or sell any of the securities mentioned. Past performance is not indicative of future results. This interview does not take into account your specific investment objectives, financial situation or particular needs. All investments carry risks, and may not be suitable for all investors. Please seek independent advice to ensure you fully understand these risks and that an investment product is suitable for you before investing. Maybank Securities Pte. Ltd is not liable for any loss or damage, including without limitation loss of profit, which may arise directly or indirectly from this interview. Follow us on our socials: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DollarsAndSenseSG Telegram: https://t.me/dollarsandsense Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dnssingapore/ 🎧 Listen to our podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6XkfHXOUXtFWfAWC7q0MwZ?si=c5ce4c58884a4fdb Co-host: https://www.instagram.com/emceefeng/ 📩 Don't forget to subscribe to our e-newsletter for the latest updates: https://dollarsandsensesg.link/dollarsandsensenewsletter

  4. Jul 29

    Can You Recover From Life’s Biggest Setback? | DollarsAndSense Podcast Ep54

    Having insurance does not automatically mean you are adequately protected. A serious illness, accident, loss of income, or unexpected family situation can change your finances overnight. The key question is whether your coverage can support you and your dependants when it matters most. Recorded on-site at InsureXpo by CIMB 2026, host Deanna Lim and Helen Shen from Singlife discuss common protection gaps in Singapore, why insurance should work alongside wealth building, and how caregiving for ageing parents can create both emotional and financial strain. Helen also shares how to review multiple policies, understand exclusions, and build protection step by step even on a tight budget. In this episode, we explore why people delay protection planning, the false sense of security from simply owning policies, and how a parent’s health crisis can impact the whole family. We also cover key questions to ask your adviser, the importance of reviewing older policies, sufficient medical and hospitalisation coverage, and how insurance supports long-term financial resilience. Finally, we discuss how to start small and three simple protection checks to do this year. The goal is not to own more policies, but to ensure your coverage matches your life stage, responsibilities, and financial priorities. Follow us on our socials: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DollarsAndSenseSG Telegram: https://t.me/dollarsandsense Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dnssingapore/ 🎧 Listen to our podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6XkfHXOUXtFWfAWC7q0MwZ?si=c5ce4c58884a4fdb Co-host: Deanna Lim https://www.instagram.com/deedeelsm?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== 📩 Don't forget to subscribe to our e-newsletter for the latest updates: https://dollarsandsensesg.link/dollarsandsensenewsletter

  5. Jul 2

    How to Build Financial Freedom Without Chasing Millions | DollarsAndSense Podcast Ep53

    How much money do you really need to retire comfortably in Singapore? Is the famous $1 million retirement goal realistic, or should you be focusing on something else? In this special episode of the DollarsAndSense Podcast, filmed live at **InsureXpo by CIMB 2026, we sit down with Prof Sharon Ng to discuss what financial independence actually means—and why retirement planning isn't just about hitting one magic number. In this episode, we cover whether $1 million is enough for retirement, how to calculate your own retirement needs, why financial independence looks different for everyone, common retirement planning mistakes, the importance of insurance and protecting your financial future, habits that help you build long-term financial security, and the "Sleep Test", a simple way to know if you're financially prepared. Whether you're just starting your career or already planning for retirement, this conversation offers practical insights to help you build lasting financial confidence. Follow us on our socials: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DollarsAndSenseSG Telegram: https://t.me/dollarsandsense Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dnssingapore/ Listen to our podcasts on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6XkfHXOUXtFWfAWC7q0MwZ?si=c5ce4c58884a4fdb Co-host: Feng Yi https://www.instagram.com/emceefeng Don’t forget to subscribe to our e-newsletter to receive the latest updates from us: https://dollarsandsensesg.link/dollarsandsensenewsletter

  6. Jun 17

    The Secret to Investing Through Uncertain Markets | DollarsAndSense Podcast Ep52

    Market volatility can be uncomfortable, but it's also a normal part of investing. In this special episode of the DollarsAndSense Podcast, recorded live at InsureXpo 2026 by CIMB, we speak with Diana Teo, Team Lead, Equities at CIMB Chief Investment Office, about how investors can stay disciplined when markets become uncertain. We discuss why emotions often become the biggest obstacle to long-term investing, how investors can distinguish between rational decisions and fear-driven reactions, and why having a clear investment plan matters before market volatility strikes. Diana also shares practical insights on diversification, portfolio resilience, and the investing habits that can help investors stay focused on their financial goals. In this episode: • Why volatility is a normal feature of markets • How fear and emotions can hurt investment returns • The importance of diversification and portfolio discipline • How to avoid getting distracted by market headlines • Why consistency often beats trying to time the market • 3 investing fitness checks every investor should do this year Whether you're investing for retirement, financial independence, or long-term wealth building, this conversation offers practical strategies to help you stay focused when markets become challenging. Follow us on our socials: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DollarsAndSenseSG Telegram: https://t.me/dollarsandsense Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dnssingapore/ Listen to our podcasts on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6XkfHXOUXtFWfAWC7q0MwZ?si=c5ce4c58884a4fdb Co-host: Feng Yi https://www.instagram.com/emceefeng Don’t forget to subscribe to our e-newsletter to receive the latest updates from us: https://dollarsandsensesg.link/dollarsandsensenewsletter

  7. Jun 10

    $900 Million Lost To Scams: Why Singaporeans Are Prime Targets | DollarsAndSense Podcast Ep51

    Scams are becoming more sophisticated and Singaporeans are attractive targets because of our savings, digital habits and trust in official communications. In this episode of the DollarsAndSense Podcast, Feng Yi and Timothy discuss why scam and cybercrime remain a major concern in Singapore, why seniors may be especially vulnerable to high-value losses, and how different age groups are targeted through different scam tactics. We cover: - Investment scams promising low risk and high returns - Government impersonation scams involving CPF, Singpass and alleged investigations - Why scammers use urgency, fear and authority to pressure victims - How AI-generated voices, faces and messages can make scams harder to spot - CPF safeguards, including daily withdrawal limits, the CPF Withdrawal Lock, - Trusted Contact Notification Service and CPF Safety Switch - How ScamShield and simple digital habits can help protect you and your loved ones One important reminder: never make a financial decision because someone on the phone or in a message is pressuring you to act immediately. Pause, verify through official channels, and speak to someone you trust before transferring money or sharing personal information. Share this episode with your parents, grandparents and loved ones. Staying informed is one of the best ways to protect the people around us. This podcast episode is brought to you in collaboration with CPF. Follow us on our socials: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DollarsAndSenseSG Telegram: https://t.me/dollarsandsense Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dnssingapore/ Listen to our podcasts on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6XkfHXOUXtFWfAWC7q0MwZ?si=c5ce4c58884a4fdb Don’t forget to subscribe to our e-newsletter to receive the latest updates from us: https://dollarsandsensesg.link/dollarsandsensenewsletter

About

The DollarsAndSense podcast brings you deeper conversation within the DollarsAndSense team. Join Dinesh Dayani and Timothy Ho for a weekly discussion on everything that matters to our wallets! If you enjoy reading our articles on DollarsAndSense.sg, we do hope you will enjoy listening to us on this podcast series as well.

You Might Also Like