[Post 383] Why Malaysia’s Currency Has Been Falling: Can The Ringgit Recover? | Insight | Full Episode

Summary

In February this year, the Malaysian currency, the ringgit, suffered its steepest decline in 26 years. It briefly slipped past MYR 4.8 against the US dollar, its weakest since reaching an all-time low of 4.88 during the 1998 Asian Financial Crisis. 

This has caused a strain on the country’s key industries - from the airlines to manufacturing - due to higher fuel prices and cost of raw materials. It has shaken investor confidence and accelerated outward migration. 

Why has the ringgit lost so much of its value? Could the depreciating ringgit spell trouble for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim? As the government projects a recovery, is a turnaround in sight?

[Post 382] Hot Weather Makes You Less Productive: How To Keep Cool & Save On Energy Costs | Money Mind

Summary

Beating the heat with some cool tips and solutions while keeping energy bills down.

[Post 381] Save Money On Your Home Renovation With DIY, Thrifting, Taobao: Bargain Hunters | On The Red Dot

Summary

Creating your dream home can be costly…but it doesn’t have to be. Host Das meets couples who have done more for less, as he picks tips on glamming up his future home. When Izwan and Nadirah were forced to move up the timeline on their home purchase, they were left with just $5,000 to renovate their 5-room flat. Das discovers how they turned their blank canvas into a modern masterpiece - and their limitation into a thriving business – by doing it themselves.

Myra, known to her friends at the “Taobao queen”, saved thousands on furniture by buying direct from manufacturers on China’s largest online marketplace, despite not being able to read a word of Chinese. She teaches Das how to navigate the platform, save costs on shipping and even snag free furniture customisation. You’d never guess that 80% of the furnishing in Renee and Leo’s home is second-hand. Das learns how to haggle for homeware and get furniture for free, and transforms a worn out chair into a new piece for his home.

[Post 380] How Food Prep Saved Me From Having To Get A Second Job | Money Mind | Japan

Summary

After decades of deflation, Japan is now experiencing rising prices. Food items have seen some of the most price hikes. So how do you cope with inflation when your salary just isn't keeping up? For one Japanese millennial in Tokyo, the solution is at his fingertips.

[Post 379] Save Or Spend? Tips On Making The Most Of Your Bonus | Money Mind | Personal Finance

Summary

You've earned it, so how can you make the most of it? Tips on making your bonus go further.

[Post 378] What's Driving Up Gold Prices Despite A Strong US Dollar & Stock Market? | Money Mind | Asset Class

Summary

Find out what’s keeping gold prices strong despite strong stocks and a strong US dollar.

[Post 377] What does the yen at a 34-year low mean for Japanese companies, consumers and tourism?

Summary

The Japanese yen has fallen sharply to a 34-year low against the US dollar. The weak yen is positive for inbound visitors, but Japanese consumers and companies are feeling the pinch. CNA's Henry Yin and Michiyo Ishida explain.