Your Money with Michelle Martin

Big Pharma’s report cards just rewrote the market mood. Market View dives into why Pfizer slipped into a quarterly loss, why Novo Nordisk plunged double digits, and how Merck managed to buck the trend. We also unpack Singtel’s rally on acquisition chatter and what it signals for Singapore’s telco strategy. Across the Pacific, tech stocks drag Wall Street lower as Nvidia and Microsoft weigh on the NASDAQ. Plus, our UP or DOWN game covers PayPal, PepsiCo, Walmart and Intel’s GPU ambitions. All this and more, hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Danielle Lim, author of The Sound of S-C-H, joins READ with Michelle Martin to discuss the newly reissued edition of her Singapore literature prize-winning book that chronicled her uncle’s life with schizophrenia and her mother’s years of caregiving. She reflects on who Uncle Seng was beyond his illness, the memories that stayed with her across decades, and how stigma in 1960s and 70s Singapore shaped her family’s silence and survival. Danielle also explains how conversations around mental illness have evolved since the book’s first release. At its heart, this is a story about dignity, endurance, and what families carry when illness becomes part of everyday life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Money and Me unpacks why global investors may be hedging U.S. exposure rather than fleeing it outright, even as the dollar weakens and trade tensions simmer. Our guest, John Sidawi, Senior Portfolio Manager for Global Fixed Income at Federated Hermes explains how currency hedging has become a core strategy after years of unhedged U.S. outperformance. We explore what a softer dollar could mean for the greenback’s long-term dominance. Gold’s surge toward record highs - and its sudden drop - raises questions about whether this is a buying opportunity or a warning sign. Attention also turns to President Trump’s pick for Fed Chair and what that could mean for rates and markets. This episode connects geopolitics, currencies and commodities - hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Disney beats earnings but warns of falling tourist demand, sending its shares sharply lower. Costs are eating into some of the Disney magic. Meanwhile, Elon Musk is building a super stock story. Elon Musk has stunned investors by merging his AI and space ventures ahead of a blockbuster IPO. Wall Street swings higher as gold and silver slump after their recent wild ride. We look closely at trade deals heats up with new US-India and EU-India deals reshaping global flows. Market View unpacks earnings, geopolitics and volatility - hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Markets are flashing warning lights - and investors are wondering if the rules have changed. Gold and silver tumble after a near-vertical rally as politics collides with monetary policy. We unpack why Microsoft fell despite beating earnings and whether its OpenAI bet is turning from moat into risk. Japan’s bond yields surge to multi-decade highs, reviving fears of a yen carry trade unwind. Simon Ree, Founder of Tao of Trading, explains what traders are watching across metals, tech, and currencies. All this and more, hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Big Pharma goes global, precious metals go vertical - then crash, and Wall Street braces for a new Fed era. Market View tracks AstraZeneca’s New York debut and what it signals about the race between the US and China for drug innovation. Gold and silver suffer their worst rout in decades after news of Kevin Warsh as Donald Trump’s pick for Fed chair. US stocks wobble as investors reassess rate-cut risks and a packed earnings week led by Disney, Amazon and Alphabet. Back home, Singapore’s STI holds the 4,900 line with United Overseas Land, ST Engineering and Wilmar in focus. All that and more, hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang. Hear about : AstraZeneca, Nio, Sony, UOB, Amgen, Merck, Pfizer, Palantir, Disney, Alphabet, Uber, Amazon, ST Engineering, Wilmar InternationalSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It used to be the good old reliable way to grow wealth, but is it time to look away from this old favourite?  As concentration risk hits record highs, one dividend investor says the S&P 500 is no longer the “safe default.” Willie Keng of Dividend Titan explains why valuations look disconnected from reality - and what he uses instead to judge fair value. We explore three unexpected alternatives: Hershey in the US, Lendlease REIT in Singapore, and Indonesian brewer Multi Bintang. From cocoa prices to commercial property and emerging market dividends, this episode challenges passive investing assumptions. All this and more, hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apple and Marina Bay Sands just delivered blowout results - but not all markets are celebrating. Apple posts its best iPhone quarter in years as China demand rebounds and services face pressure. Marina Bay Sands clocks the strongest quarter in casino history, even as its parent struggles with Macau exposure. Copper surges to record highs and oil jumps above US$70 as geopolitics and China optimism drive commodities. Microsoft sinks on AI spending fears while Meta jumps on strong earnings and cost discipline. All this and more, hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Big Tech earnings are splitting the market right down the middle - Meta soars, Microsoft stumbles, and investors are asking whether AI spending is starting to bite. Big Tech earnings dominate today’s Market View as Meta and Microsoft head in sharply different directions. Meta delivers blockbuster results, with fourth-quarter revenue jumping 24% and investors cheering its confidence to ramp up AI investment - even with spending set to surge this year. Microsoft, meanwhile, beats expectations but unsettles markets by flagging slower cloud growth, triggering a sell-off despite strong headline numbers. The earnings picture widens with our UP or DOWN round: Tesla grapples with its weakest annual profit since the pandemic, Starbucks shows signs of a long-awaited turnaround, while SK Hynix and Samsung ride relentless demand for AI-driven memory and chips. Markets zoom out as the S&P 500 briefly tops 7,000 before retreating, with the U.S. Federal Reserve holding rates steady under continued pressure from President Donald Trump. We end back home in Singapore, tracking STI movers and new SGX board lot changes, before closing with a cultural curveball - the Grammys! K-pop is entering the fray and Michelle shares her pick for an artist who signals a deeper shift from spectacle to substance.  Hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You think you’re diversified… but what if you’re just betting on the same seven tech stocks again and again? The so-called Magnificent Seven now dominate both US and global indices, quietly shaping returns for anyone holding “broad” ETFs. We examine whether global diversification is becoming important again as big institutional players like Vanguard cut back on UK exposure and also talk about the rise and rise of gold. Has one of our best known commentators changed his long-standing tactical view on the metal? Michelle Martin speaks with Arun Pai, Associate Partner at Monk’s Hill Ventures, about how to spot unintended exposure and what a smarter diversification strategy really looks like, hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bad news is piling up, yet markets keep climbing - so which signal should investors trust? Gold surges past US$5,000 an ounce as investors hedge against trade wars, political risk and warnings of a looming “capital war” from Ray Dalio. Elon Musk claims robots will outnumber humans and could make up most of Tesla’s long-term value, even as the car business faces slowing deliveries and rising competition. We ask whether stock prices are rising because the economy is healing - or simply because the dollar is weakening. With US market concentration at record highs, what does this mean for portfolios heavily exposed to American equities? Michelle Martin speaks with Swapnil Mishra, author of Investing for the Clueless, Reckless and Overly Cautious, about whether this is resilience, illusion, or the start of a structural shift See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From aircraft crises to AI cables and a surprise trade pact, markets are being pulled in very different directions at once. Boeing’s earnings revive hopes of a turnaround as deliveries improve after years of safety and production failures, though investors remain cautious. We size up corporate winners and losers in an UP or DOWN round, with General Motors and UPS showing resilience while UnitedHealth’s outlook weighs on sentiment. Attention shifts to geopolitics as India and the European Union seal a landmark free trade agreement that could reshape supply chains and export flows. In tech and industry, Corning’s multibillion-dollar AI data-centre deal contrasts with Meta’s risky push into paid social media subscriptions. Singapore stocks break new ground as the STI hits fresh highs led by banks and property names, while Micron’s US$24 billion expansion anchors the island’s semiconductor ambitions, hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang. Hear aboutBoeing, General Motors, UPS, UnitedHealth, Corning, Meta, Puma, Anta Sports, Micron, DBS, OCBC, UOL, Jardine Matheson, Wilmar International.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michelle Martin asks if falling interest rates are changing the maths for Singapore’s savers who love hoarding cash. With billions still parked in T-Bills and money-market funds, investors now face a new risk: opportunity cost. Michelle speaks with Afdhal Rahman of OCBC about what could trigger a shift from cash into equities, bonds and gold. They unpack why Asia ex-Japan may look more attractive than the US as the dollar weakens and valuations diverge. The conversation also explores how bonds are becoming income engines again, and why gold is moving from hedge to strategy. What happens when staying on the sidelines costs more than riding out volatility. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A brutal US winter storm knocks out power, freezes gas production and sends energy prices - and energy stocks - sharply higher. Gold smashes through US$5,000 an ounce as the US dollar weakens, pushing investors toward precious metals and currency hedges. Unexpected winners emerge on the SGX, with pawnshop operator MoneyMax riding the gold rally. In corporate news, Nvidia edges closer to overtaking Apple as TSMC’s top customer, while CoreWeave surges on fresh AI investment. Back home, Singapore banks weigh on the STI as Wilmar shines, highlighting sector rotation in local markets. Market View unpacks what extreme weather, soaring commodities and shifting tech leadership mean for investors - hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang. Hear about : Nvidia · Apple · CoreWeave · Cheniere Energy · Excelerate Energy · Quanta Services · MoneyMax Financial Services · Mapletree Logistics Trust · OUE REIT · UOB · DBS · OCBC · Wilmar InternationalSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today Michelle picks up a thought-provoking book by a serial British entrepreneur Gary Ashworth. The book unpacks a simple framework; what if becoming rich wasn’t about genius or luck - but about repeating one maths movement, ten times?  Michelle Martin speaks with self-made multi-millionaire and author Gary Ashworth about his “Double Up” wealth framework. The conversation explores responsible leverage, three-year wealth cycles, and why starting small doesn’t mean thinking small. Money and Me is hosted by Michelle Martin, and this episode reveals how patience, structure, and psychology shape long-term financial freedom. 3 High-Impact Insights: Wealth grows through repeatable maths, not one big win - what if doubling capital consistently became your new north star? Value is created, not found: improving assets is as important as buying them cheaply. Time and psychology matter as much as money - most people fail because they hesitate about getting started. No journey is perfect. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

United Overseas Bank has surged back into favour as investors reassess Singapore’s banking sector after months of caution. Michelle Martin and Ryan Huang unpack why UOB’s provisioning fears have eased and what rising target prices signal for bank valuations. They examine JPMorgan’s “sell list” and what it reveals about pockets of risk in an otherwise resilient market. The conversation widens to US markets, where Intel’s plunge and a heavy earnings calendar - from Apple to Tesla - shape sentiment. In UP or DOWN, they assess developments at TikTok, Berkshire Hathaway, USA Rare Earth and Frasers Centrepoint Trust. Market View is hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang. Join the conversation, featuring companies including UOB, DBS, OCBC, Intel, Apple, Microsoft, Meta, Tesla, Berkshire Hathaway, TikTok and Yangzijiang Shipbuilding.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Markets are rattled by geopolitics - but panic is rarely a strategy. From US military action in Venezuela to tensions over Greenland, investors are questioning whether uncertainty now warrants a shift in portfolios. We examine how US equities have actually behaved through geopolitical shocks - and what history suggests about staying invested. The Magnificent 7 start the year unevenly, raising the question of whether leadership is broadening beyond mega-cap tech into SMID caps. A weaker US dollar prompts a closer look at currency exposure in global portfolios - risk, opportunity, or both? With noise rising across geopolitics and policy, we ask the hardest question: sit in cash, or stay the course? Hosted by Michelle Martin. Guest: Cheng Chye Hsern, Head of Investment, Providend.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Intel beats earnings - but supply bottlenecks spook markets. We unpack why Intel sold off despite stronger revenue, and what supply constraints signal for the chip cycle. From semiconductors to staples, Procter & Gamble bets on premium pricing with luxury diapers - is pricing power holding up? US inflation stays sticky at 2.8%, reshaping expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts and equity valuations. Markets rally as tariff threats fade, with investors choosing policy relief over economic caution. UP or DOWN on Ubisoft, JPMorgan Chase, Suntec REIT, and City Developments Limited - hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A 140-year-old healthcare giant shows it can still grow, as Johnson & Johnson beats earnings expectations and doubles down on its ambition to lead the global fight against cancer. On geopolitics, markets rebound after U.S. President Donald Trump walks back tariff threats tied to Greenland, reframing the issue around mineral rights and strategic access instead. We unpack whether this is real policy clarity - or another case of TACO economics - as U.S. stocks rally on relief. In UP or DOWN, we look at L’Oréal’s big bet on Indian beauty tech, Lululemon’s brand stumble with squat-failing tights, Ryanair’s monetisation of controversy, and whether CDL is poised for a catch-up trade. Back home, the STI tests key support as only a handful of blue chips finish in the green. And in our Last Word, a tool-using cow in Austria challenges what we think we know about intelligence - in markets, and in life - hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is leaving your CPF alone the safest option in 2026 or are there smarter moves for more than 2.5%  interest? As Singapore’s retirement rules shift, what do you need to know about the moves that you can make for greater savings and smaller tax bills. With new dollar-for-dollar government matching schemes, the roadmap to retirement offers new possibilities regardless of paycheck size. We break down how the RSTU, MRSS and the newly launched MMSS actually work - and who benefits most. From withdrawal rules at 55 to whether CPF LIFE truly delivers a paycheck for life, we tackle listeners’ most pressing questions. We also explore how to prioritise top-ups for yourself versus your parents, and where spare cash should go now that SA rules have changed. A practical, clear-eyed guide to building retirement income with confidence - hosted by Michelle Martin with guest Boo Chiang Tat, Manager, Retirement Savings Department, CPF Board.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A nation’s birth story, revisited through freshly released interviews. A major new book and permanent exhibition at the National Library reopens the story of Singapore’s separation from Malaysia in 1965. The Albatross File: Inside Separation draws on newly declassified Cabinet papers, handwritten notes by Dr Goh Keng Swee, and oral history accounts to examine what was long seen as a sudden rupture. Joining the conversation is Mr Janadas Devan, Senior Adviser to the Ministry of Digital Development and Information, who coordinated the creation of the book. We explore why these records are being released now, what Singaporeans still misunderstand about separation, and how negotiated settlement differs from the idea of forced expulsion. The discussion humanises the leaders involved and political pressures on both sides of the divide. Hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From Netflix’s earnings pop to a bond-market shock out of Tokyo - markets are suddenly on edge. Netflix posts a near-30% jump in quarterly profits, but shares slide as investors digest higher content spending and a massive all-cash bid for Warner Bros., aimed at outflanking Paramount. We zoom out to Wall Street’s sharp sell-off as geopolitical tensions flare and volatility spikes. Then to Japan, where a sudden bond rout rattles global markets and raises fears of contagion beyond Tokyo. Billionaire investor Ray Dalio warns of looming “capital wars” as foreign holders rethink US Treasuries. Plus: UP or DOWN on United Airlines, Pop Mart, Busy Ming, Indonesia stocks - and a surprising airline angle tied to weight-loss drugs, hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The market looks strong - but only a handful of stocks are doing the lifting. As 2026 begins, investors are grappling with a big question: can mega-cap dominance last, or is leadership finally starting to broaden? With just 10% of the S&P 500 driving gains, valuation gaps are widening even as market breadth quietly improves. We explore whether easing rates, broader earnings, and capital rotation are setting the stage for SMID-cap companies to step into the spotlight. The conversation digs into AI’s shift from infrastructure to application, separating real earnings leverage from hype. We also assess how new US tax incentives are shaping corporate behaviour - and whether small- and mid-cap fundamentals are truly recovering. Joining the discussion is Ann Miletti, Head of Equity Investments and Chief Diversity Officer at Allspring Global Investments, hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Asia’s markets are flashing mixed signals - so how is a smart investor to think through where to really place money? Michelle Martin unpacks Morningstar’s Q1 2026 Asia Investment Outlook with Lorraine Tan, cutting through the noise on growth, rates and risk.From AI-driven earnings to valuation support - what’s real, what’s hype, and where the cracks could form. We zoom in on fund flows, asset allocation shifts, and how China and Japan are shaping the regional picture. Plus four Singapore stocks in focus - Singtel, StarHub, ST Engineering and SIA - and what investors should actually watch for next. Finally, we talk portfolio anchors, red flags, and how to balance opportunity with defence in the year ahead - hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Markets are wobbling as geopolitics heats up - and investors are heading for cover. Asia-Pacific stocks slide as US–Europe tensions flare over Greenland and fresh tariff threats. European equities retreat while safe havens shine, with gold and silver near record highs. A Hong Kong billionaire’s call to put 20% into gold raises eyebrows - is this a regime shift? Back home, Frasers Centrepoint Trust weighs JB competition as the RTS Link nears reality.Plus UP or DOWN on HSBC, Stellantis, De Beers and IJM, the STI check-in, and Hollywood’s sequel-heavy 2026 - hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Asia’s tech story may be entering a very different growth phase - and it’s not all about AI. Michelle Martin and Ryan Huang unpack Macquarie’s bullish call on Asia internet stocks driven by gaming, music, super-apps and cultural exports. From K-pop giant HYBE to platforms like Tencent, Baidu and Kakao, the focus shifts to monetising ecosystems people already live on. The duo also examine Bernstein’s bullish bet on BYD - not just as a carmaker, but a vertically integrated tech play. Global tensions rise as President Trump revives trade war threats against Europe, while earnings season heats up in the US. All this and more, including Intel, Micron and Singapore market movers - hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our company in focus list, zeroes in on companies we here know about in Singapore. In 2026, it’s no longer about whether markets rise - it’s about which companies truly deliver.Money and Me looks past daily noise to uncover businesses entering pivotal turning points across sectors.. Hosted by Michelle Martin, this episode features Vance Tan, Financial Services Manager, PhillipCapital, on spotting durable value beyond headlines. We explore how to identify companies with real structural tailwinds versus short-term hype and headline-driven rallies. The discussion dives into balance sheet strength, non-negotiable financial metrics, and valuation discipline in a still-uneven market. Finally, we break down how investors can turn high-conviction ideas into diversified, long-term portfolio strategies without overconcentration. Will STI hit 5000 in 2026?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The discussion looks at chips surging and banks cashing in. Asia-Pacific markets trade mixed as investors weigh TSMC’s blockbuster earnings against fresh US-Taiwan trade developments. We unpack what Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company’s profit jump says about the durability of the AI trade and global chip supply chains. Wall Street steadies as Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley deliver strong earnings, powered by trading and wealth management. In UP or DOWN, we size up Spotify’s price hike, Boston Scientific’s mega-deal, and CapitaLand India Trust’s data-centre push. And in our Last Word, we ask what authenticity means when a very unusual singer with no soul climbs Spotify’s charts - hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Singapore REITs may finally be turning the corner. Singapore REITs enter 2026 at a pivotal moment say's Kenny Loh, as interest-rate cuts revive sentiment and valuations remain below historical averages. After delivering a near-23% gain in 2025 - their best run since 2019 - analysts expect a two-year earnings upgrade cycle driven by falling borrowing costs and rising distributions. We unpack which REITs face refinancing risks, how balance sheets are being managed, and where higher interest coverage offers protection. From industrial and logistics to retail, offices and data centres, we assess which property sub-sectors look resilient - and which still face headwinds. We also ask whether current price-to-NAV discounts present compelling entry points, or if markets are still pricing in too much caution. Joining us is Kenny Loh, REIT Specialist and Wealth Advisory Director, as we discuss strategy, risks and specific S-REITs on the radar for 2026, hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US bank earnings take centrestage as Citigroup, Bank of America and Wells Fargo open their books, revealing a split between headline beats and sharp market reactions. Citigroup posts stronger-than-expected earnings despite a costly exit, while Bank of America delivers hefty profits - yet both stocks slide. Wells Fargo disappoints, with severance costs dragging results and shares taking the biggest hit of the day. Financials lead US markets lower, pulling the S&P 500, NASDAQ and Dow into the red after record highs. In UP or DOWN, we unpack China’s record trade surplus, silver mining stocks surging past the US$90 mark, DBS unlocking S$1 billion in AI value, and YZJ Maritime expanding its fleet. And in The Last Word, from earnings to emotions - we ask whether a globalised K-pop industry is finally ready to let its biggest stars fall in love, hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When rates diverge, the real risk isn’t missing the bottom - it’s what you do once you’re there. Singapore’s interest rates are nearing a projected floor, while the UK remains stubbornly higher - setting up a rare refinancing crossroads for homeowners. Michelle Martin speaks with Daniel Sim, Founder of Golden Goose Properties, about whether this is the moment to lock in cash-flow relief or risk overleveraging,refinancing timelines and borrower psychology. From Singapore’s TDSR to the UK’s stress tests, we explore how safeguards work - and where blind spots still exist. Ultimately, it’s about keeping leverage as a disciplined wealth tool, not a silent strain - hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Big earnings, so why did Wall  Street sell? Earnings season kicks off with surprises as JPMorgan Chase posts higher revenue but lower profits - and investors head for the exits. Michelle Martin and Ryan Huang unpack why a one-time Apple card charge and booming trading desks still weren’t enough to calm markets. Delta Air Lines delivers soaring profits powered by premium travel - yet its shares dip as expectations run even hotter. UP or DOWN breaks down GigaDevice’s explosive Hong Kong debut, SK Hynix’s US$13 billion chip bet, Meta’s Ray-Ban push, and Singapore port records. A bullish Broker’s Take sees UOB Kay Hian calling 40% upside for NTT DC REIT, riding global demand for data centres. And in The Last Word, a viral Chinese app called “Are You Dead?” reveals a surprisingly human fear in hyper-connected cities - hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A digital bank, a S$1.3 billion war chest - and a big question: can a newcomer really change how Singaporeans save, invest and bank. Michelle speaks with Natalia Goh, CEO of MariBank, on how a digital-first model is reshaping everyday finance. Backed by Sea Limited and licensed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore, MariBank has rapidly grown its investment offerings to over S$1.3 billion in AUM. We unpack how the Lion - MariBank SavePlus Fund works, what investors should know about short-term bonds and capital preservation, and how gold investing fits into a digital wallet for this bank's customers. Natalia also explains fixed deposit rates, the rationale behind the S$100,000 deposit cap, and what safety looks like in a digital bank. Finally, we ask the big question for savers and investors alike: is putting your money with a digital bank worth a thought?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A surge in insider buying puts diesel engines, cocoa and construction firmly in focus. Hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang, we track director deals at XMH Holdings, JB Foods and Reclaims Global - and what those trades signal for small-caps. Institutional action heats up as United Overseas Bank tops buy-backs while US markets notch fresh highs. Earnings season looms with big banks and airlines reporting, setting the tone for equities. UP or DOWN breaks down moves in Rolls‑Royce, Walmart, Apple and TSMC. We close with Singapore stocks - and a global pop-culture pulse check as BTS prepares a long-awaited comeback.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As 2026 begins, Money and Me takes a moment of introspection - looking not just at how much you made, but how you spent. What did money add to your life in 2025 - and what quietly drained your peace, health, or joy? Hosted by Michelle Martin, this episode features Christopher Tan, CEO of Providend, who introduces a powerful reframing: Return on Spending, not just Return on Investing. From a $10,000 wedding anniversary to resisting ego-driven purchases, Christopher shares how values - not status - guided his big financial decisions. The conversation explores how spending today shapes the future story of our health, ageing, and relationships. Listeners are invited to do a simple year-end money audit - no spreadsheets required - before setting their goals for the year ahead.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Defense stocks swing sharply as US President Donald Trump pivots from threatening dividends to floating a staggering US$1.5 trillion military budget. Hosted by Michelle Martin, this episode unpacks why names like Lockheed Martin, L3Harris Technologies and AeroVironment surged - and what it says about policy-driven markets. We also look to Europe, where defense stocks extend a four-day rally as geopolitical tensions reshape spending priorities. In Asia, Hong Kong gets a boost as China-backed tech champions debut, led by AI firm Zhipu AI alongside chip and robotics players. UP or DOWN tackles movers including CrowdStrike and Fast Retailing, while Singapore stocks pause near record highs. And finally, from AI fridges to strange CES gadgets, we ask whether tech innovation is getting smarter - or just louder.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the China growth narrative fades, attention is shifting from the New Economy to an overlooked source of income: high-dividend state-owned enterprises. Raymond Cheng explains why China’s energy and infrastructure giants have delivered strong returns even as oil prices fell. We explore how Beijing’s policy reset has effectively programmed state firms to return more cash to shareholders. Why Hong Kong-listed H-shares may offer higher yields than identical A-shares in Shanghai — and why that matters now. Plus, what Southbound Connect flows, falling bank rates, and balance-sheet quality tell cautious investors about China’s role in a diversified portfolio. Hosted by Michelle Martin with guest Raymond Cheng, Chief Investment Officer for North Asia at Standard Chartered Bank’s Wealth Solutions unit.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Samsung’s blockbuster profits put South Korea’s market back in the global spotlight, as investors ask whether the AI-driven rally still has legs. We play UP or DOWN on defence contractors like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman after President Donald Trump targets dividends and buybacks. Alphabet overtakes Apple in market value for the first time since 2019 - is Big Tech leadership shifting for good?Meanwhile, deal drama surrounds Paramount Global, while Serve Robotics jumps into focus after praise from Nvidia’s Jensen Huang. We check in from CES 2026 in Las Vegas to separate investor signal from gadget noise. Plus, brokers turn bullish on Micron Technology and lithium producer Albemarle, as Singapore stocks push deeper into record territory - hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When prices barely move after big news, that’s often the loudest signal of all. Nvidia’s Vera Rubin chip debut at CES promises cheaper, faster, lower-power AI - yet the stock barely flinched, raising questions for both traders and long-term investors. Michelle Martin unpacks what muted price action really means when expectations are crowded and positioning is full. Geopolitical shock from Venezuela has sent gold and silver surging - what does seasoned investor Simon Ree, founder of the Tao of Trading think of the possibilities ahead; follow-through, or a fade? From memory-chip spillovers to crowded AI trades, explore markets with Michelle and Simon in this conversation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A single chip may have just changed the economics of artificial intelligence. From CES in Las Vegas, Nvidia unveils its Vera Rubin AI chip - promising faster computing at a fraction of today’s power and cost. Michelle Martin breaks down what cheaper AI means for data centres, electricity demand and capital budgets. The ripple effects spread across global chipmakers as memory shortages drive rallies in Samsung, SK Hynix and Micron. Markets hit fresh records, Shake Shack gets a World Cup twist, and Singapore stocks surge on a softer US dollar. All that and more, hosted by Michelle Martin. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

He was told borrowing could boost his retirement - instead it wiped out his peace of mind. A real-life Singapore case shows how a retiree lost a large portion of his savings after taking loans to buy complex insurance-linked investments. In this episode, we unpack why borrowing to invest is especially dangerous once your paycheque stops. We break down the red flags hidden in structured products, leverage, and “projected returns” that sound reassuring but aren’t guaranteed. You’ll learn what questions retirees - and their adult children - must ask before signing anything involving debt. Hosted by Michelle Martin, this Money and Me episode helps you protect retirement capital by understanding what not to do before it’s too late.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oil shocks, AI momentum, and record markets - but the real story is who’s positioned to win when geopolitics meets capital. Wall Street rallies as energy stocks surge after US action in Venezuela, putting companies with deep roots - like Chevron - back in the spotlight. We unpack why Halliburton’s Singapore-linked legacy and Chevron’s decades-long patience may now pay off in one of the world’s biggest energy rebuilds. From Caracas to CES 2026, we track how AI demand is moving from hype to factory floors, with Nvidia-linked supply chains firing up. In UP or DOWN, we assess what boardroom shifts, airport traffic records, data-centre leases and new SGX listings signal for investors. Hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang, Market View connects oil, technology and global capital flows - revealing why timing, scale and staying power matter more than headlines.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The biggest threat to your money in 2025 wasn’t what everyone was shouting about, it was your reaction to them. As markets whipsawed through tech shocks, AI scares, and policy pivots, many investors hurt themselves trying to react. This episode reveals the real wealth destroyer hiding beneath the headlines. We unpack volatility, false market narratives and why first impressions often lead investors astray.  The conversation challenges the obsession with timing, predictions, and expert forecasts. Hosted by Michelle Martin featuring Chin Hui Leong, the Co-founder, The Smart Investor, this is a reset on how clever investors think through the headlines as we head into 2026.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A geopolitical shock meets market momentum as oil, EVs, and equities collide. The arrest of Venezuela’s leadership puts energy markets back in the global spotlight. Which EV maker has overtaken Tesla? Which is racing toward EV profitability? Meanwhile, we check in on Berkshire's first test under new leadership. Singapore REITs diverge as investors scrutinise funding strategies and balance sheets. Wall Street enters 2026 confident - but stretched valuations, AI bets, and politics loom large. Hosted by Michelle Martin this episode unpacks where optimism holds - and where cracks may be forming.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why do intelligent, hard-working people still struggle financially in retirement — and what do they miss along the way? Straits Times Invest Editor, Tan Ooi Boon and author of Retire With More Money discusses the money traps and glimmering opportunities available to us here in Singapore to retire well using foresight. From CPF blind spots and property laws to marriage, legacy planning and investment traps, this conversation tackles the issues people avoid until it’s too late. We unpack real-life cases of devastating financial mistakes - and the quiet habits that protect wealth over decades. This is a discussion for readers, investors, and lifelong learners who believe thinking well is the foundation of living well. Money and Me - hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Asia’s markets are mixed this Christmas Eve - but beneath the calm, powerful themes are moving capital fast as investors weigh healthcare breakthroughs, defence spending, and surging commodities. Novo Nordisk jumps as US regulators approve the first-ever GLP-1 weight-loss pill, reshaping the obesity drug market. US defence stocks rally, with Huntington Ingalls riding expectations of higher military spending and domestic shipbuilding. Huawei defies expectations, pushing into ultra-luxury electric vehicles and outselling traditional European carmakers in China. Meanwhile, copper and platinum hit record highs, fuelled by supply constraints, electrification, AI demand and tariff stockpiling. From Singapore stocks to luxury crab replacing caviar, this is Market View - hosted by Michelle Martin solo.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Markets are shifting fast - not just what you invest in, but how you stay ahead when trading never stops. As NASDAQ moves toward a 23-hour trading day, investors face a world that’s always-on, faster, and more volatile. At the same time, AI enters its second phase, with infrastructure players like Micron powering the data-centre boom. And AI is no longer just in servers - it’s moving onto our faces, as smart eyewear reshapes consumer tech. So which trends are structural, which are cyclical, and where should investors be wary of hype? We break it all down, hosted by Michelle Martin and Swapnil Mishra, Author of "Investing for the Clueless, Reckless and Overly Cautious".See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tech stocks lift Wall Street, but AI is creating both breakout winners and deep value traps. Investors grapple with whether laggards like Adobe, Salesforce and GoDaddy are bargains or warnings. Gold and silver surge to record highs as rate cuts, deficits and policy risk drive demand. A high-stakes bidding war pits Netflix against Paramount for Warner Bros Discovery, with shareholders watching closely. Asia offers mixed signals, from China Vanke’s debt reprieve to HTC’s AI smart-glasses push and Johor industrial buys. All this and more, hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.  Companies mentioned today: Nvidia, Adobe, Salesforce, GoDaddy, Gartner, Micron Technology, Netflix, Paramount, Warner Bros Discovery, China Vanke, HTC, CapitaLand Malaysia Trust, Ever Glory United, Seatrium, Yangzijiang Shipbuilding, Thai Beverage.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen in on a conversation around a practical approach to managing your wealth while finding meaning in life. Michelle Martin speaks with Craig Pearce publisher of  "The Art of Spending Money " by Morgan Housel to take readers beyond the page. Why is this book especially relevant when prices of things around us seem to be increasing? Can one still make money by writing books? This is a conversation for both readers and aspiring authors, hoping to be picked up by renowned publishing houses.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Asia-Pacific markets kick off the week on a strong footing - and beneath the surface, capital is quietly rotating, power is concentrating, and old franchises are finding new life. In today’s Market View, we unpack Keppel REIT’s move beyond offices into retail, and whether investors are warming to that diversification even as Singapore offices remain core. We look stateside as Wall Street ends the week mixed, with Bank of America flagging Estée Lauder, UBS, and Bruker as 2026 plays - from consumer brands to precision instruments. It’s UP or DOWN time with Oracle stepping deeper into TikTok’s US future, ByteDance eyeing a staggering US$50 billion profit year, and Elon Musk securing a record-breaking Tesla pay package - which gets a DOWN for governance optics. We also touch on Sony’s US$450 million bet on the Peanuts franchise, why Snoopy still matters at 75, and what ValueMax’s legal tussle means for investor sentiment. All that plus a holiday-shortened week ahead, the Straits Times Index check-in, and a cinematic Last Word from Pandora as Avatar: Fire and Ash hits the global box office - hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.