Friday 8 March 2024

[Post 335] CPF Special Account closure: How it will affect you | Money Talks podcast


Summary

The latest changes to the CPF scheme announced in Budget 2024 raised concerns about the potential impact on retirement planning – specifically, the closure of the CPF Special Account. How will these changes affect your nest egg? We speak to Alvin Chow, CEO of financial education platform Dr Wealth.

Tuesday 5 March 2024

[Post 334] We Test How Effective Are Cheaper & Generic Medicines From Malaysia


Summary

Do you stock up on generic drugs when you travel to Malaysia? Or buy medication from online retailers that deliver to Singapore? In this #TalkingPoint experiment, we test the potency of such medicines to see if they are really effective. 

Monday 4 March 2024

[Post 333] How Can Economical Rice Stalls Improve Confusing Price Lists?


Summary

In this digital extra, Talking Point producer Charmaine Tan takes on the challenge of redesigning the stall’s confusing price list, with tips from a marketing expert to make the menu more intuitive for customers. 

Sunday 3 March 2024

[Post 332] Paying $10 More For The Same Hair Cut: Are Lunar New Year Surcharges Fair? | Talking Point


Summary

Singaporeans have had to grapple with surcharges while they prepare for the Lunar New Year festivities. From haircuts, manicures, car servicing and even pet grooming – businesses are charging their clients an extra cost on top of their regular prices. But why are these surcharges starting so early and how do we determine what is a fair surcharge? That’s what host Steven Chia investigates in this episode of Talking Point. 

[Post 331] "Let Me Postpone Having A Child": Why Young Couples Aren't Making Babies - Part 2 | Love Delayed


Summary

Love-wary actor Aaron Mossadeg explores why young people from Singapore and Asia delay marriage and parenthood. In Singapore and Hong Kong, he meets couples struggling with housing issues and limited space, learning its impact on family formation. Aaron examines if better gender equality in parenting might encourage more children. His quest leads him to Sweden, known for progressive parental leave policies, where he encounters a 'Latte Papa,' a symbol of modern fatherhood.

Reflecting on his own doubts about lifelong marriage, Aaron visits South Korea to explore the youth's growing preference for cohabitation over traditional wedlock. Finally, Aaron confronts misconceptions about fertility, testing his sperm and questioning the effectiveness of IVF as a last resort. Delays in childbearing may hinder the aspiration for larger families, but he finds hope in the supportive role of grandparents. Aaron merges personal and cultural insights on modern Asian family life.

Saturday 2 March 2024

Monday 26 February 2024

[Post 329] #Adulting: We Want To Move Abroad But Can't Leave This Family Member Behind | Money Mind | Migration


Summary

A young Singapore couple is eyeing a dream move for a change of lifestyle. But there's an unexpected roadblock. Do they have a plan B?