Let's Talk, Singapore

Singapore Unfiltered: Is Singapore more racially integrated or just more polite?

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 01:34:49 +0000

As Singapore marks Racial Harmony Day, we explore a difficult but important question: Have we become more racially integrated, or simply better at avoiding uncomfortable conversations?

Let’s Talk, Singapore examines the latest surveys, policies and what racial harmony looks like in Singapore today.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek — LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 8am for Singapore Unfiltered.

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Talk of the Town: Can Singapore businesses compete in the RTS era?

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 01:17:16 +0000

A new study projects Singaporeans could spend an additional S$1.05 billion a year in Johor Bahru once the RTS Link opens. Should businesses be worried, or is this an opportunity to reinvent how they compete?

Let’s Talk, Singapore unpack the findings with Musa Fazal, Chief Policy & Operating Officer at Singapore Business Federation

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 7.20am for Talk of the Town!

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Breakfast Bites: Job hopping every two years - Smart Move or Red Flag 🚩?

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 23:43:45 +0000

Staying loyal to one company used to be the gold standard. Today, changing jobs every couple of years is often seen as the fastest way to grow your salary and career. So where's the line between being ambitious and looking unreliable? We explore whether frequent job hopping is the new normal—or still a hiring red flag.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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The Final Score: Celebrating the life and legacy of Kevin Keegan 🕊️

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 23:25:56 +0000

Kevin Keegan, the iconic Liverpool player and former manger of.England and Newcastle, passed away earlier this week aged 75. Having thrilled fans the world over on the pitch while playing for the Reds in the 70s, he went on to become a managerial icon in the 90s. To date, Kevin remains the ONLY English player to have won the Ballon d'Or twice, securing the prestigious award in back-to-back years in 1978 and 1979.

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Singapore Unboxed: Guess this 3,000-year-old global phenomenon

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 05:07:29 +0000

It's almost 3,000 years old, but its latest version has everyone talking. Despite its age, millions of people are experiencing it in a whole new way. Play along with Singapore Unboxed as we reveal clues one by one before uncovering the answer.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday and Thursday at 8.15am for Singapore Unboxed

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Talk of the Town: Faishal Ibrahim resigns. What does it mean for the PAP and Singapore politics?

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 01:21:48 +0000

Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim has resigned from the Cabinet, Parliament and the PAP after Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said his conduct fell short of the standards expected of political office holders.

Let’s Talk, Singapore invites Saravanan Sugumaran, Co-founder and Managing Director of Morrow Intelligence and Research Director (Global Affairs) at the Cognitive Influence Dynamics Lab (CID Lab) on the show to discuss what it could mean for the PAP, leadership succession and Singapore's political landscape.

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We Are Family: Is $1 million really enough to raise a child in Singapore?

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:26:58 +0000

For many Singaporeans, having children feels increasingly out of reach. But are soaring costs the real problem, or have our expectations of parenting changed?

From childcare and housing to enrichment and lifestyle choices, Let’s Talk, Singapore examines what it truly takes to raise a child today and whether the financial fear is justified with Kelvin Ang, Founder of Cheekiemonkies and Singapore’s OG Parenting Influencer & John Dasson, Wealth Manager.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday and Thursday at 7.15am for We Are Family

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Breakfast Bites: What's the best way to give kids an allowance?

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 00:12:19 +0000

Pocket money is about more than paying for recess. It's often a child's first lesson in budgeting, saving and spending. So should parents hand out allowance daily, weekly or monthly?

The answer could shape how children think about money long before they earn their first paycheck.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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The Final Score: Bellingham, Ronaldo and Trump all clinch awards...kinda! | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 23:43:13 +0000

From Audrey's new boo Jude Bellingham, to Neil's 'don't be naughty' pick and Raushan's rant on Ronaldo...the 'Let's Talk, Singapore' crew rolled out the red carpet to hand out the 'non-award awards' to recap the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Do you agree with our picks?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Ask Alessia: From the FIFA World Cup Stage to Singapore with Alessia Cara

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 03:23:53 +0000

Fresh from performing at the FIFA World Cup opening ceremony in Toronto, Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Alessia Cara joins Let's Talk, Singapore ahead of her return to Singapore as a headline act at Glow Festival.

Alessia opens up about taking creative risks with her latest project Love or Lack Thereof, the stories behind revisiting her own music, life on the road, and the moments that have shaped her career.

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The Final Score: Spain reign supreme; Argentina left in agony | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 03:17:01 +0000

Ferran Torres was the hero for Spain, scoring an extra-time winner to defeat Argentina in 2026 FIFA World Cup final, as La Roja were crowned Champions of the World. Deserved winners? Plus, a tennis score in the third-place playoff saw England defeat France 6-4 (yes 6-4!). A happy ending for the Three Lions, but does Thomas Tuchel deserve to stay on?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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SG Unfiltered: Kenneth Jeyaretnam's legacy | What happens to opposition politics now?

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 01:18:16 +0000

Kenneth Jeyaretnam, Secretary-General of the Reform Party and one of Singapore's longest-serving opposition figures, has passed away at the age of 67.

Let’s Talk, Singapore invites Nydia Ngiow, Managing Director (Global Trade & Economics / Singapore) at BowerGroupAsia , and government affairs expert on the show to reflect on his political journey, the legacy of the Jeyaretnam family, and what his passing means for the future of opposition politics in Singapore.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek — LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 8am for Singapore Unfiltered.

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Talk of the Town: Should Singapore clear mansions before forests for housing developments?

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 01:17:15 +0000

Plans to clear parts of Maju Forest for a new public housing estate have sparked a familiar but increasingly urgent debate: when land is scarce and homes are needed, what should Singapore be willing to sacrifice?

With vast plots of land occupied by Good Class Bungalows while forests make way for denser housing, are we making the right choices about who and what gets space in Singapore?

Dr. Harvey Neo, Professorial Research Fellow at the Lee Kuan Yew Centre for Innovative Cities, SUTD and Tony O'Dempsey, Member of NSS Conservation Committee

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 7.20am for Talk of the Town!

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Breakfast Bites: What do you look forward to most after a work day?

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:21:57 +0000

The laptop closes, the commute ends, and the day is finally yours. Is it a home-cooked meal, a workout, time with family, or simply doing absolutely nothing? We ask what your post-work ritual is and why it matters.

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Singapore Unfiltered: Is a 10-minute walk to the MRT really accessible?

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 01:31:42 +0000

Property listings love the phrase "10-minute walk to the MRT", but does that mean the same thing for everyone?

As Singapore's population ages, Let’s Talk, Singapore discusses whether our city is truly designed for seniors, families and people with different mobility needs.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek — LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 8am for Singapore Unfiltered.

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Ask Dick Lee: The man behind the music

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:37:46 +0000

After decades shaping Singapore's cultural identity, Dick Lee answers thoughtful questions about his career, the nation he loves and the legacy he hopes to leave behind.

For all ticketing information to Dick Lee's upcoming shows:

Chasing Light 《追》: Ding Yi x Dick Lee 70:
https://www.sistic.com.sg/events/light0726

Fried Rice Paradise - The Makan Party
https://www.srt.com.sg/show/fried-rice-paradise-2026

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Singapore Icons: The man behind 'Home' - Dick Lee on building Singapore's cultural identity

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:32:15 +0000

Before Singlish was celebrated and local stories became mainstream, Dick Lee was championing Singapore's unique identity through music and theatre. In this special National Day conversation, he reflects on his life's work, cultural pride, and the future of Singapore's creative scene.

For all ticketing information to Dick Lee's upcoming shows:

Chasing Light 《追》: Ding Yi x Dick Lee 70:
https://www.sistic.com.sg/events/light0726

Fried Rice Paradise - The Makan Party
https://www.srt.com.sg/show/fried-rice-paradise-2026

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Breakfast Bites: How often do you intentionally make time for friends?

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:20:25 +0000

Making friends might be easy, but keeping them is another story. Between demanding careers, family commitments and packed schedules, even our closest friendships can drift. Is that just part of growing up, or should we be putting as much effort into our friendships as we do every other important relationship?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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The Final Score: Spain vs Argentina, who will be crowned kings of the world? Does third-place really matter? | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 00:17:30 +0000

...and just like that, the finish line is in sight. Spain and Argentina have a date with destiny in their quest to be crowned kings of the world. Who will prevail? Plus, former England striker Michael Owen weighs in on the third-place match between England and France. Should it be played at all?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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The Final Score: "England lacked bravery and courage" - Michael Owen laments Tuchel's tactical blunder that sent the Three Lions packing | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 09:32:55 +0000

A scathing assessment from Michael Owen, as the pain and the post-mortem continues after England's semifinal exit at the hands of Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Speaking on the sidelines of "Breakfast with the Legend: Michael Owen" at Adventure Cove Waterpark presented by Resorts World Sentosa - the former England striker also weighed in on Harry Kane's Three Lions' future, and his pick for the eventual World Cup winners.

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Singapore Unboxed: Guess Singapore's most nostalgic new food spot

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 01:28:04 +0000

It has just reopened, looks like Singapore in the 1970s and brings together some of the country's most beloved hawker brands. Play along with Singapore Unboxed before we reveal the answer.

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We are Family!: Why Singapore will never be able to emulate Cabo Verde without a winning sports culture

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 01:15:27 +0000

Distance runner Soh Rui Yong has done it again, breaking his own 5,000m national record at 34. But why can’t his sustained success be emulated in other sports? Why do we still struggle to build a broader sports culture where sporting excellence can truly thrive? And yes, why can’t we do a Cabo Verde and be the little nation that could at the World Cup?

Fresh from his latest record, Rui Yong joins us to unpack what Singapore may be missing, from the way we raise and educate young athletes to our attitudes towards sporting careers, competition and success. And as smaller nations make their mark on the world stage, what needs to change if Singapore wants to become a genuine sporting nation?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday and Thursday at 7.15am for We Are Family

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The Final Score: Is Tuchel to blame for England's exit?; Argentina make it back-to-back finals | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 00:44:19 +0000

England suffered late heartbreak at the hands of Argentina - with Lionel Messi providing two assists as the reigning World Champions booked their spot in a second consecutive FIFA World Cup final. Was Tuchel and his cautious changes to blame for the Three Lions' exit?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Breakfast Bites: Airport divorce. Have you heard of it?

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 23:59:58 +0000

Forget moving in together. Some say the real relationship test starts the moment you arrive at the airport. With "airport divorce" going viral online, we ask why travelling can turn even the happiest couples into bickering teammates before the holiday has even begun.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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Miss Tam Chiak | Singapore Unfiltered: Should Singaporeans mind their own business?

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 02:52:28 +0000

This week on Singapore Unfiltered, a Tampines retiree has gone viral for using a long-range camera to report littering and illegal parking, while a content creator turned Potato Corner's Bring Your Own Tub promotion into a massive giveaway for migrant workers.

Both made headlines for very different reasons, but what does it really mean to be a good citizen? Should Singaporeans mind their own business, or is speaking up part of being civic-minded?

STOMP'S Maureen Ow also known as famous food blogger Miss Tam Chiak joins the conversation.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek — LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 8am for Singapore Unfiltered.

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Talk of the Town: A para-athlete's honest take on whether Singapore is truly wheelchair-friendly

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 01:29:09 +0000

After a viral story about a father advocating for a more special-needs-aware Singapore, wheelchair rugby player Edgar Cheong joins Let's Talk, Singapore to discuss accessibility, independence and the everyday challenges wheelchair users still face. From public transport and pavements to attitudes and awareness, we ask: how inclusive is Singapore really?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 7.20am for Talk of the Town!

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Breakfast Bites: How long do your CDC vouchers last?

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 01:28:48 +0000

Some people spend their CDC vouchers in the week they're issued. Others forget about them until the expiry reminder arrives. Every voucher has an expiry date, but how long do yours actually survive? Whether you're the type to spend them the moment they're released or stash them away for months, we explore the habits, strategies and little guilty pleasures behind one of Singapore's favourite freebies.

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The Final Score: Au revoir France as Spain book a spot in the final! Who will join them? | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 23:39:41 +0000

Spain booked their spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final, ousting tournament favourites France with a stunning 2-0 win. Could we now see a repeat of the 2024 Euros Final, when La Roja took on the Three Lions, as England and Argentina do battle in the other semifinal for the a spot in Sunday's showpiece event?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Singapore Unboxed: Can you guess the Singapore twist on this classic game?

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 01:20:21 +0000

This week on Singapore Unboxed, we're looking at a new weekly challenge that puts a distinctly local spin on a familiar pastime. From food and school memories to Singlish and everyday life, even the most ordinary Singaporean experiences can become part of the fun.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday and Thursday at 8.15am for Singapore Unboxed

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We Are Family: Lightning without rain? Singapore’s hidden weather threat

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 01:16:45 +0000

A tragic lightning strike at Pasir Ris Beach has raised urgent questions about one of Singapore's most overlooked natural hazards. Why can lightning strike even under seemingly clear skies? What is a "bolt from the blue"? And how can you keep yourself and your family safe?

NUS weather expert Adjunct Associate Professor Koh Tieh Yong joins Let's Talk, Singapore to separate myth from fact and explain what every Singaporean should know.

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Breakfast Bites: Your Colleague Is Clearly Sick… Do You Say Something?

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 23:50:47 +0000

Your colleague turns up coughing, sniffling and clearly under the weather. Do you tell them to go home, politely keep your distance, or say nothing at all?

We unpack the awkward workplace etiquette around sick colleagues, showing concern without overstepping, and whether coming to work unwell is still something we should accept.

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The Final Score: Gianni Infantino eyes expansion to 64 teams; France and Spain eye a spot in the final | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 23:41:36 +0000

FIFA are exploring a further extension to the FIFA World Cup with Gianni Infantino saying the first 48-team tournament has been "a huge success" - and now eyeing a 64-team format in time for 2030. But is bigger, necessarily better? Plus, who will book their spot in the 2026 final, France or Spain?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Singapore Unfiltered: 'Ministers have no time to watch movies'.... But is that acceptable?

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 01:29:48 +0000

A viral parliamentary exchange has reignited an important conversation about leadership. Is making the right decisions enough, or do public leaders also need to experience the realities faced by ordinary Singaporeans? Let’s Talk, Singapore discusses why perception can sometimes shape public confidence just as much as good policy.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek — LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 8am for Singapore Unfiltered.

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Talk of the Town: From Banker to Bike Repairer Helping Migrant Workers for Free

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:31:52 +0000

For many migrant workers in Singapore, a bicycle is an essential part of daily life. But what happens when it breaks down or when buying one simply isn't affordable?

Let's Talk, Singapore speaks with Philip Mehl, Founder of Free Bicycle Repairs and Deivanai Duryraju, Programme Officer of ItsRainingRaincoats, about the role bicycles play in migrant workers' lives, the community effort giving donated bikes a second life, and how a simple act of kindness can make a meaningful difference.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 7.20am for Talk of the Town!

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The Final Score: Tuchel and Belligham's 'spat', good news for England?; Final four takes shape! | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:04:15 +0000

England may have booked their spot in the semifinals, but the aftermath of the Three Lions win over Norway has been dominated by a clash of opinions between head coach Thomas Tuchel and the man of the hour Jude Bellingham. But could that be a catalyst to overcome Messi's Argentina in the final four?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Breakfast Bites: Friend Asks To Borrow Money… How Much Are You Giving?

Sun, 12 Jul 2026 23:52:55 +0000

A good friend asks to borrow money. Some of us would help without hesitation, while others have one firm rule: never mix money and friendship. We unpack whether you would lend to a friend in the first place, what counts as a “safe” amount, and when a generous favour risks becoming a very expensive lesson.

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Singapore Unfiltered: Singapore's new drink driving & mobile phone laws explained

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 03:09:39 +0000

Singapore is proposing some of its toughest road traffic law changes in years. From lower alcohol limits to stricter rules on mobile phone use while driving, Let’s Talk, Singapore breaks down what's changing, why it matters, and whether the measures go far enough.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek — LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 8am for Singapore Unfiltered.

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Breakfast Bites: Mental Health Days - How seriously should they be taken?

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 03:07:42 +0000

Feeling mentally drained can be just as debilitating as having the flu but should taking a day off for your mental health be treated the same way?

As conversations around burnout and wellbeing become more common in Singapore, are mental health days a genuine necessity or something that could be easily abused? We explore where employer

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The Final Score: France through to the Semis, will England join them in the final four? | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 01:30:00 +0000

France defeated Morocco 2-0 to book their spot in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Convincing scoreline, yes. Convincing performance, not quite. But powered by Kylian Mbappe's firepower - he's now on par with Lionel Messi on 8 goals at the top of the golden boot tally - could Les Bleus go all the way? Plus, will the perennial bridesmaids England join them in the final four?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Singapore Icons: How KF Seetoh put hawker culture on the world map

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 00:57:39 +0000

Long before UNESCO recognition, KF Seetoh was championing Singapore's hawkers to the world. In this special National Day edition of Singapore Icons, he shares the stories behind the food, the people who inspired him and why preserving hawker culture is really about preserving Singapore's identity.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek — LIVE every Friday at 7.15am for Interviews with Singapore's most iconic figures.

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Ask Seetoh: Hawker secrets, food myths and Singapore's best eats

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 00:54:24 +0000

Ever wondered what KF Seetoh really thinks about Singapore's food scene? In this special Q&A, the Makansutra founder answers questions on hawker culture, local favourites, hidden gems and much more.

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The Final Score: The good, the bad & the ugly of the tournament thus far | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 03:26:20 +0000

96 matches done, just 8 games to go...the 2026 FIFA World Cup is approaching the proverbial 'business end'. So timely then that The Final Score reflects on the good, the bad and the ugly of the tournament thus far! And trust us, these picks may surprise you.

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Singapore Unboxed: Can you guess this viral POP MART event?

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 01:08:23 +0000

Can you guess what's making a splash at the Singapore Oceanarium? Let’s Talk, Singapore puts Andre Hoegen, content strategist, SPH Radio to the test before revealing POP MART's latest Crybaby collaboration, featuring giant inflatables, exclusive collectibles and immersive ocean-themed installations.

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Ask Andre: Behind the mic with Andre Hoeden

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 00:48:44 +0000

What's it really like working in radio? Veteran broadcaster Andre Hoeden joins us as guest host to answer listeners' questions, share behind-the-scenes stories from decades on air, and reveal some of the moments you never get to hear behind the microphone.

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We Are Family!: Why are some Singapore families choosing more children?

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 00:31:21 +0000

This week on We Are Family!, we're meeting one family that's gone against the trend.

As Singapore's birth rate continues to fall, many couples are choosing to have one or two children. But what inspires some parents to keep growing their family? And what does everyday life really look like when there are five children under one roof?

Joining us is Debbie Leung, marketing manager and mother of five, to share her family's story, the realities of juggling work and parenting, the unexpected joys and challenges of raising a larger family, and why, for some Singaporeans, bigger really can be better.

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Breakfast Bites: Travelling with young kids - Is that still a "holiday"?

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 00:24:22 +0000

Packing, meltdowns, missed naps, and chasing toddlers through airports — travelling with young children can sometimes feel more exhausting than staying home.

So why do parents keep doing it? Is a family holiday about making memories, or just surviving the trip? We unpack the highs, lows, and hilarious realities of travelling with little ones.

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Miss Tam Chiak | Singapore Unfiltered: Why do we insist on romanticising corporate careers

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 01:58:23 +0000

Would you rather have a prestigious title or a job you genuinely love? From fishmongers and hawkers to plumbers and pilots, Let's Talk, Singapore and STOMP'S Maureen Ow also known as famous food blogger Miss Tam Chiak explore why certain careers carry more social status and whether it's time to rethink what success really looks like.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek — LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 8am for Singapore Unfiltered.

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Talk of the Town: Can Singapore become Asia's next festival hub?

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 00:36:08 +0000

From blockbuster concerts and Formula One to wellness and lifestyle festivals, Singapore has become a go-to destination for some of the world's biggest live events. But what makes our little red dot so attractive to organisers, performers and audiences alike?

Martin Capstick, CEO & Founder, Glow Festival by Prudential and Co-Founder, Exceed Sports & Entertainment and Singaporean singer-songwriter Shazza join us to unpack what goes into staging a major festival, whether Singapore can rival regional event hotspots, how the live events scene is creating new opportunities for local artists, and what to expect from this year's Glow Festival.

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Breakfast Bites: Halfway Through 2026... How Are You Really Doing?

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 00:18:11 +0000

Remember those New Year’s resolutions you were so sure you'd stick to? Well, we're more halfway through 2026. Whether you're smashing your goals, quietly pretending they never existed, or discovering new priorities along the way, now's the perfect time for a reality check.

Are you where you hoped you'd be by now, and if not, is it time to reset rather than give up?

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The Final Score: Messi & Co. leave it late as we are down to the final 8! | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 23:53:45 +0000

Argentina scored 3 goals in the final 15 minutes to pip Egypt 3-2, but the post-mortem has been marred by allegations of corruption and suggestions of conspiracy. Do FIFA really have a 'marketing agenda' to keep Lionel Messi in the tournament? If so, what does this mean for the integrity of the beautiful game?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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The Final Score: Should Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo retire for good?

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 04:59:39 +0000

Portugal’s 1-0 defeat against Spain was a sad showcase for Cristiano Ronaldo’s decline. He was slow, cumbersome and never looked like scoring against superior opponents. At 41, one of the greatest strikers of all time really should preserve his legacy and retire now. It’s time for Portugal to move on without him. Do you agree?

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Singapore Unboxed: The next generation of big ideas

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 04:27:02 +0000

This week on Singapore Unboxed, we're exploring an event that's challenging assumptions about age, creativity and capability. It brings together people with original ideas, plenty of determination and the chance to put their skills to the test in front of the public.

We'll also unpack why learning by doing can be one of the most valuable lessons of all, how confidence and resilience are built through real-world experiences and why this unique event is proving that great ideas don't always come from grown-ups.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday & Thursday at 8am for Singapore Unboxed.

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We Are Family: How do we attract workers to public transport jobs?

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 01:15:30 +0000

Singapore has unveiled its first dedicated residence for bus drivers, complete with air-conditioned rooms, shared facilities and a depot right next door. It's the latest effort to improve the working lives of those keeping our public transport system running.

But is better accommodation enough to attract more people into an industry known for long hours, split shifts and demanding responsibilities? Joining us is Jeffrey Sim Vee Ming, Group Chief Executive Officer of SBS Transit, to discuss what it will take to make public transport careers more appealing, how operators are rethinking the job, and why attracting the next generation of bus captains matters to every commuter in Singapore.

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Breakfast Bites: Singapore school dress codes - Time for an update?

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 01:01:18 +0000

Long socks, short hair, coloured shoes, dyed hair — school dress codes have long been part of student life in Singapore. But as schools evolve and attitudes change, are some of these rules starting to feel outdated?

Or do uniforms and grooming standards still play an important role in building discipline and school identity? Today, we ask whether it's time to rethink the rules or leave well enough alone.

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The Final Score: Trump intervenes to reverse Balogun's red card; Brazil ousted by Norway | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 03:40:53 +0000

Brazil were sent packing as an Erling Haaland-inspired Norway defeated them 3-1. Next up for the Vikings, England in the quarter-finals. Meanwhile Donald Trump intervened to get Florian Balogun's red card reversed - sending the football fraternity into a frenzy. A fair decision? Tune in to find out!

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Singapore Unfiltered: Why can’t we take criticism, Singapore?

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 01:24:35 +0000

This week on Singapore Unfiltered, a British tourist went viral after calling Singapore the "worst country" he'd visited, while another foreign content creator previously labelled it the "most toxic city in the world".

Both sparked fierce backlash online. So why do comments like these strike such a nerve? Are Singaporeans becoming too defensive, or is it only natural to stand up for our country when outsiders make sweeping judgments?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek — LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 8am for Singapore Unfiltered.

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Talk of the Town: How Changi Airport is putting Singapore Football on the world stage

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 00:57:39 +0000

Changi Airport could have celebrated the World Cup with football's biggest global names. Instead, it chose Singapore's national team. Let’s Talk, Singapore unpacks why, and what that says about national pride, storytelling and believing in local talent with Toh Lay Ling, Associate Director, Corporate & Marketing Communications, Changi Airport Group & Sudhir Pasumarty, Creative Director, Ogilvy Singapore.

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Breakfast Bites: Why do we always fight over the bill?

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 23:43:09 +0000

It happens at almost every meal. One person grabs the bill, another insists on paying, someone suggests splitting it, and suddenly the waiter is caught in the middle. Is insisting on paying a sign of generosity, good manners, or just social pressure?

This week, we're settling one of Singapore's most familiar dining dilemmas: when the bill arrives, what's the right thing to do?

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Singapore Unfiltered: What's going on with Singapore's food hygiene? 🍱🪳

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 01:18:56 +0000

A lizard in fried rice, cockroaches at a popular bakery, and dozens of food poisoning outbreaks linked to central kitchens and restaurants.

This week on Singapore Unfiltered, we ask if confidence in Singapore's food scene is starting to take a hit, or if social media is simply making every incident impossible to ignore.

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Breakfast Bites: Should you have full access to your partner’s phone passcode?

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 01:17:59 +0000

Your phone knows everything about you. So if your partner asked for your passcode, would you give it to them? Is sharing passwords a sign of trust, or does real trust mean never having to ask in the first place?

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Talk of the Town: From Pokémon cards to BTS and Taylor Swift tickets, are scalpers ruining it for everyone else?

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 00:53:55 +0000

What drives people to queue overnight for a plushie or pay three times the original price for a concert ticket?

Together with Dexter Tay, Executive Director of the Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE), Let’s Talk, Singapore explores the rise of resellers, the psychology of scarcity, and whether we've turned consumption itself into an investment.

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The Final Score: Spain progress, but have they played the best football thus far? | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 23:11:20 +0000

Spain have stayed true to their tag as pre-tournament favourites - thumping Austria 3-0 to book their spot in the next round. But beyond the results, have they played the best football of the 2026 FIFA World Cup thus far? Our picks might surprise you!

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Breakfast Bites: Can you trust online reviews anymore?

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 05:44:34 +0000

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ or ⭐️☆☆☆☆ — how much do online reviews actually influence where you eat, shop or spend your money? From glowing five-star ratings to suspicious one-star rants, reviews can make or break a business. But how reliable are they really?

We unpack the good, the bad and the downright bizarre world of online reviews, and ask whether Singaporeans are relying on them a little too much.

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We Are Family: Should Singaporean kids under 16 be banned from social media?

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 02:31:56 +0000

Australia has done it. Malaysia has followed. Britain is considering similar measures. Should Singapore do the same? Let’s Talk, Singapore invites Chee Thow Wei Liat, Deputy Director and Head of VOX @ Children's Society to explore whether social media is harming young minds, what parents can do and whether banning apps is the answer.

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Singapore Unboxed: When nature becomes the main attraction

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 02:21:30 +0000

This week on Singapore Unboxed, we're looking at how flowers and gardens have evolved beyond places to admire nature, becoming destinations for art, photography, family outings and even international competition.

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The Final Score: Kane-inspired England set a date with Mexico in the Round of 16 | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 00:37:12 +0000

Harry Kane was the star of the show - scoring a late double - as England defeated DR Congo to book a date with Mexico in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. But having survived through the skin of their teeth yet again...the age old question remains. Is it coming home?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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The Final Score: Giants Germany and Netherlands tumble on penalties, are 'stuttering' shootouts to blame? | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 02:22:57 +0000

Traditional giants Germany and Netherlands were sent packing from the 2026 FIFA World Cup - succumbing to shootout defeats to Paraguay and Morocco respectively. Beyond the roulette element, was it the new age routine of 'stuttering' penalties that caused these upsets?

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Singapore Unfiltered: From Road Rage to Coffeeshop Brawls - Why is Singapore so angry?

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 02:03:55 +0000

A string of viral fights has sparked debate over whether tempers in Singapore are getting shorter. Are stress, rising frustrations and social media bringing out the worst in us, or is this simply a case of a few isolated incidents going viral?

PLUS Singapore football legend, Fandi Ahmad, makes a surprise appearance on this episode of Singapore Unfiltered.

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Talk of the Town: Hundreds of migrant workers went unpaid. How did it happen in Singapore?

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 00:56:13 +0000

More than 400 migrant workers reportedly claimed they were owed unpaid salaries, raising difficult questions about employer accountability, worker protections and what happens when companies fail.

Let’s Talk, Singapore invites Ethan Guo, Executive Director, Transient Workers Count Too (TWC2) and Ada Cheong, Communications Lead, Transient Workers Count Too (TWC2) to unpack the case, the safeguards in place and what workers and employers need to know.

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Breakfast Bites: After-Hours Work Messages - Reply Or Ignore?

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 23:45:44 +0000

The workday may end, but for many people, the notifications don't. Whether it's a quick WhatsApp, an "urgent" email, or a late-night Teams message, many employees feel expected to stay connected long after they've logged off.

But where should the line be drawn? Should workers have a genuine right to disconnect, or is being reachable simply part of modern work culture?

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Singapore Unboxed: The new way to experience luxury

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 01:26:00 +0000

This week on Singapore Unboxed, we're looking at a global brand that's giving people a whole new reason to visit beyond shopping. As luxury labels continue expanding into lifestyle experiences, the line between retail and dining is becoming increasingly blurred.

We also explore other luxury food and beverage experiences you can check out around Singapore, and why they're becoming as much about the experience as the meal itself.

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We Are Family: Is there really such a thing as a ‘good’ Primary school in Singapore?

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 01:24:41 +0000

As Primary 1 registration begins, parents across Singapore are once again scrambling for places in popular schools. But after years of education reforms and the belief that "every school is a good school", does choosing the 'right' primary school still matter? Let’s Talk, Singapore invites Elisha Tushara, Education Correspondent with The Straits Times on the show to explore the psychology, pressure and reality behind Singapore's biggest parenting race.

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Breakfast Bites: Your new name on Paynow - Love it, or hate it? NeXX & AuXXXX have their say!

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 00:48:20 +0000

Sending money with PayNow is about to become a little more personal. Instead of just a mobile number or nickname, users may now see more identifying information when making transfers.

Supporters say it reduces mistakes and scams, while critics worry it comes at the expense of privacy. So is the change a welcome improvement, or does it reveal more than it should?

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The Final Score: Asian drought at the World Cup continues | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 23:25:37 +0000

Japan suffered late heartbreak as Brazil sent them packing in the round of 32 at the FIFA World cup. Australia are now the sole Asian representative remaining in the tournament, despite a record NINE Asian Nations qualifying. What does this say about the trajectory of Asian football?

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The Final Score: It won't be coming home if England keep this up, surely? | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 04:12:10 +0000

With England still failing to impress - despite topping their group unbeaten - we wonder if it'll still be coming home? Speaking of failing to impress, Ronaldo flatters to deceive once again. Will CR7 eventually come good consistently at the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

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Singapore Unfiltered: P1 Registration - Is there really such a thing as a ‘Good School’?

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 01:37:17 +0000

Primary 1 registration is back, and with it comes the annual scramble for places, parent volunteering and the famous 1km rule. As Singapore's birth rates fall and school intakes shrink, Let’s Talk, Singapore asks whether the race for a "good school" still matters, and what parents are really worried about.

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Talk of the Town: Is it brand Pritam or brand Workers' Party?

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:28:41 +0000

After retaining Pritam Singh as secretary-general, the Workers' Party has drawn a line under months of uncertainty. But has it strengthened public confidence or raised new questions about accountability?

Let’s Talk Singapore unpack the implications with Saravanan Sugumaran, Co founder & Managing Director, Morrow Intelligence.

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Breakfast Bites: Should you buy gifts for your colleagues?

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:25:18 +0000

You've just returned from a well-earned holiday. Before anyone asks how your trip was, there's one question on everyone's mind: "What did you bring back?" Whether it's snacks from Japan, chocolates from Europe or fridge magnets nobody asked for, office souvenirs have become an unwritten workplace tradition.

But is it a thoughtful gesture, an unspoken expectation, or a custom that's slowly disappearing? We ask Singaporeans if holiday gifts for colleagues are still a must.

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The Final Score: Singaporean Edmund Wong makes World Cup history … courtesy of Cristiano Ronaldo! | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 04:44:44 +0000

A Singaporean photographer has made World Cup history, as his photo was picked up and shared by Cristiano Ronaldo. How and why? Tune in to find out!

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Singapore Unfiltered: Have Singaporeans fallen out of love with Singapore?

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 01:55:03 +0000

From Australia to Bali to New York, many Singaporeans dream of life elsewhere. But is it freedom they’re chasing, or something they feel is missing at home? Let’s Talk, Singapore speaks to ADPList CEO Felix Lee about the growing desire to go overseas, and whether Singapore is being judged too harshly.

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Breakfast Bites: Is it ok to regift presents you won't use or don't like?

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 01:25:56 +0000

We've all been there. A gift arrives, you smile politely... and then wonder what on earth you're going to do with it. So, is it okay to pass it on to someone who'll actually use it?

With homes getting smaller and things getting more expensive, many Singaporeans are becoming more practical about gifts. If a present isn't your cup of tea, is it fair game to regift it?

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Talk of the Town: What counts as gambling in 2026?

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 00:55:51 +0000

Is it just casinos and Toto? Or do sports betting, crypto speculation, Pokémon cards and loot boxes belong in the same conversation? As the World Cup kicks off, Let’s Talk, Singapore invites Sarojini Padmanathan, Council Member, National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and Ms Bhavinagayatri Thinnagaran, Senior Counsellor, National Addictions Management Service (NAMS) at the Institute of Mental Health to find out whether our definition of gambling has failed to keep up with reality.

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Breakfast Bites: Why Singaporeans would rather starve than take the last piece

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 02:13:55 +0000

Do you leave it? Offer it away? Or grab it without hesitation? Let's Talk Singapore breaks down the personalities, etiquette and social dynamics behind one of Singapore's most relatable dining habits.

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Singapore Unboxed: Asia Cat Expo 2026 - What has a Musical, International Stars and can cost thousands?

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 01:18:51 +0000

Singapore's largest cat-exclusive event returns for its fourth edition, bringing together cat lovers, breeders, groomers, welfare groups and international guests. Let's Talk, Singapore unbox the highlights and what visitors can expect this year.

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We Are Family!: Tampines' new playground isn’t about disability. It’s about belonging

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:26:19 +0000

Featuring Singapore's first wheelchair-accessible slide, the new Magical Bridge playground is more than just a place to play. It's sparking conversations about empathy, disability and the invisible struggles many families face every day. Let’s Talk, Singapore invites Olenka Villarreal, Founder & CEO, Magical Bridge Foundation, Siti Sarah Mohd Jamil, an MOE staff, and mother of Mohd Jaime Arian, a student at Rainbow Margaret Drive.

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The Final Score: Which country has the best football fans? | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:17:53 +0000

The footballers have shown up, and so have the fans! Dubbed the "the greatest show on Earth" due to its unparalleled global reach and intense, multi-nation cultural impact - The FIFA World Cup has brought stories of fandom and fervour to the fore. But which country has THE BEST fans? Our picks might surprise you!

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Talk of the Town: Can Singapore Grow Without Leaving Nature Behind? 🐒

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 01:55:41 +0000

Singapore may be known as a city skyline, but it’s also home to some incredible wildlife and the people working behind the scenes to protect it. From endangered species breeding programmes to rainforest restoration and educating the next generation, what role does conservation really play in a modern city like ours?

Join us as we speak to Dr. Cheng Wen-Haur, Deputy CEO of Life Sciences and Chief Life Sciences Officer, Mandai Wildlife Group about the work happening beyond the zoo exhibits, why biodiversity matters more than ever, and how Singaporeans can play a part in protecting the natural world around us.

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Miss Tam Chiak | Singapore Unfiltered: Are cyclists becoming a problem in Singapore?

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 01:48:28 +0000

Every week seems to bring another headline involving cyclists and road users. Are cyclists becoming more reckless, or is Singapore struggling to adapt to a future with more bicycles? Let’s Talk, Singapore dive into the facts, statistics and latest incidents.

STOMP'S Maureen Ow also known as famous food blogger Miss Tam Chiak joins the conversation.

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The Final Score: Ronaldo finds his scoring touch, but England fire blanks | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 00:35:39 +0000

Ronaldo made history - becoming the FIRST player to score in SIX editions of the FIFA World Cup - grabbing two goals as Portugal smashed Uzbekistan 5-0. For England though, the hype train hit a speed bump as they drew 0-0 with Ghana. Is it still coming home?

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Breakfast Bites: Congrats, you got a raise! What would make you happy?

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 00:35:13 +0000

Let's say you feel you've been a stellar employee the past year. You've hit your targets, taken on extra responsibilities, and delivered a strong year at work. Then comes appraisal season. So what's a raise you'd actually be happy with? We hear from our listeners, and share some stats with you to help you calibrate your expectations.

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Singapore Unboxed: Your Soundtrack To July

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 01:34:19 +0000

This week on Singapore Unboxed, we're looking at a month-long celebration built around a music genre that's influenced everything from pop and hip-hop to film soundtracks and lounge music. While some people think it's only for serious music lovers, this event is showing just how accessible and diverse it can be.

We also delve into other exciting event you can check out around the island right now!

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Breakfast Bites: QR code, order yourself - Is it still fair to charge 10% service at restaurants?

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 01:17:48 +0000

Scan a QR code. Order from your phone. Pay digitally. In many restaurants today, customers are doing more of the work themselves, yet the 10% service charge remains. As dining becomes increasingly automated, are Singaporeans still getting the service they're paying for? Or is it time to rethink the charge altogether?

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We Are Family: IMDA eases dialect rules as Teochew-language movie 'Dear You' sparks debate

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:48:26 +0000

A Teochew-language film has reignited debate over Singapore's decades-old dialect policies. Have dialects become a threat, a forgotten heritage, or something worth preserving? Let’s Talk, Singapore invites Ng Wei Kai, Correspondent, SPH Media and Goh Yan Han, Assistant News Editor, SPH Media to discuss identity, culture, family and whether old language policies still make sense today.

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The Final Score: ✨ Messi makes history, Ronaldo are you watching? 👀 | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 00:16:46 +0000

Lionel Messi became the outright top score in FIFA World Cup history - notching 2 goals against Austria to take his tournament tally to 18 goals in 6 editions. Undisputed GOAT? Surely...but don't tell Cristiano Ronaldo!

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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The Final Score: Gianni Infantino's private jet & 'puzzling' rule change | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 03:02:30 +0000

Gianni Infantino is no surprise to bad headlines - but his extensive use of private jet travel during the ongoing FIFA World Cup has drawn criticism from environmental groups, who accuse football’s world governing body of ignoring climate concerns amid a heavily expanded tournament schedule. Plus, a puzzling rule change that has gone under the radar. What is it? Tune in to find out!

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Singapore Unfiltered: If Singapore is so prosperous, why are people sleeping in airports?

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 01:36:02 +0000

Changi Airport welcomes millions of visitors each year. But behind the crowds and duty-free shops are Singaporeans who spend nights there with nowhere else to go. Let's Talk, Singapore explores hidden homelessness, family breakdown and whether rough sleeping is more common than many realise with Melvinderpal Singh Ishar, Deputy News Editor, SPH Media.

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Talk of the Town: Can Singapore Still Cash In On The World Cup?

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 00:39:45 +0000

The FIFA World Cup is one of the biggest commercial events on the planet, generating billions in spending and marketing activity every four years. But what does that mean for businesses in Singapore?

James Walton, Sports Business Group Leader for APAC and Southeast Asia at Deloitte, joins us to discuss the business of the World Cup, the brands betting big on football fever, and whether this year's tournament could play out differently from previous editions.

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Breakfast Bites: Be honest. Do you watch World Cup at work?

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 00:39:05 +0000

The World Cup comes once every four years, but deadlines don't stop for football. Is it acceptable to stream matches at work, sneak a look at scores during meetings, or come in tired after a late-night game? We ask where Singaporeans draw the line between passion and professionalism.

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Breakfast Bites: What do the Dads really want on Father's Day?

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 04:04:58 +0000

Lots of us are celebrating a big weekend: Father's Day is here, and we asked a simple question with surprisingly complicated answers: What do dads really want? Is it some peace and quiet, a heartfelt meal with family, or a day out with friends?

We unpack the poll results and what makes our loving dads feel truly appreciated. And of course.... a little surprise is in store for the Let's Talk Daddies!

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Singapore Unfiltered: Do grades matter too much in Singapore?

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 01:30:45 +0000

This week on Singapore Unfiltered, we're diving into a story about a Singaporean who was rejected by local universities but went on to earn a PhD from Harvard has reignited a debate about opportunity and meritocracy.

Do grades matter too much in Singapore? Does our education system do enough to identify potential beyond academic results? And when opportunities are limited, how do we decide who gets a shot?

The man at the centre of the viral story, Harvard PhD graduate Joel Tan joins the conversation.

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Talk of the Town: Gavin Lee on raising a child and leading a nation

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 00:31:39 +0000

He's one of Singapore's youngest national team coaches and a new father. Gavin Lee reflects on the pressures of leading the Lions, the lessons passed down from his father, and what he hopes to leave behind for Singapore football and for his family.

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The Final Score: Can USA really win the tournament? | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 00:15:34 +0000

Buoyed by home support and off to a winning start on MD1, can the Mauricio Pochettino led USA defy the odds to have a fairytale run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup? The best historical United States men's performance in the tournament was a third-place finish at the inaugural tournament in 1930. In the modern era, the best performance was reaching the quarter-finals in 2002.

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Singapore Unboxed: The Experience Putting Singapore Fans In The Driver's Seat

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 01:24:39 +0000

This week on Singapore Unboxed, we're looking at a world-famous attraction that's finally making its way to Singapore. It's packed with iconic moments, legendary names and plenty of opportunities for visitors to experience what it feels like to be part of something usually reserved for an elite few.

We're also exploring why fans are increasingly drawn to immersive experiences, how Singapore continues to attract major international events and exhibitions, and other exciting things happening around the island this season.

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We Are Family!: Will Singaporeans live to 100… and what happens if we do?

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 01:07:31 +0000

Singapore's life expectancy has reached a new high. But as we add years to life, are we adding life to those years? Let’s Talk, Singapore invites Susana Harding, Senior Director of the International Longevity Centre Singapore (ILC-S), Tsao Foundation to discuss healthy ageing, retirement, friendships, caregiving and the future of growing old in Singapore.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday & Thursday at 7.20am for We Are Family!

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The Final Score: Kane-inspired England off to a winning start; Ronaldo blanks as Portugal draw | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 00:35:59 +0000

Harry Kane bagged a brace as England beat Croatia 4-2 to get their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign off to a winning start. But no rejoice for Ronaldo who blanked in Portugal's 1-1 draw against DR Congo - a day after his nemesis Lionel Messi stunned the world with a sublime hat-trick in Argentina's opener against Algeria.

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Breakfast Bites: Let's settle this - Is it soccer, or football? ⚽

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 00:34:29 +0000

The World Cup is here, which means it's time for one of sport's oldest arguments. Is it soccer or football? Why do different countries use different names, and what do Singaporeans actually call it? Pick a side and join the debate.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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Miss Tam Chiak | Singapore Unfiltered: A bucket down the chute?! What's wrong with our rubbish habits?

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 01:33:15 +0000

A bucket down the rubbish chute. A mattress left beside the bin. Someone stuffing bulky items where they clearly don't belong. For a nation that prides itself on cleanliness, Singaporeans seem to have a surprisingly complicated relationship with our rubbish chutes.

This week on Singapore Unfiltered, we're talking rubbish — quite literally.

STOMP'S Maureen Ow also known as famous food blogger Miss Tam Chiak joins the conversation.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek — LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 8am for Singapore Unfiltered.

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Talk of the Town: Are we asking too much of the people building Singapore?

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 00:30:42 +0000

From housing estates to MRT lines, migrant workers play a vital role in shaping modern Singapore. As construction activity ramps up and demand for labour remains strong, there more than 1.2 million Work Permit holders in the country. But, are we doing enough to support the workers behind the nation's growth?

Let’s Talk, Singapore speaks with Koh Xiao Ying, Director for Foreign Manpower Management and International Relations and Michael Lim, Director, Migrant Workers' Centre about the future of migrant labour in Singapore.

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The Final Score: Are 'hydration breaks' ruining the beautiful game? | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 23:55:50 +0000

It isn't just the scores and the stars who have been in the spotlight at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Enforced hydration breaks midway through each 45-minute half has caused much uproar, not because of the actual reason - player welfare. But rather for the ads that run during these 3-minute stoppages. Commercials over football? Why are hydration breaks turning the World Cup into an American show?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Breakfast Bites: What are fair waiting fees for private hire vehicles, if at all?

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 23:55:17 +0000

You’re almost ready. Just one more minute. Maybe two. But while you're scrambling for your keys or waiting for the lift, the meter could already be ticking. Waiting fees for private-hire rides are becoming a growing point of frustration for both passengers and drivers.

So what's actually a fair amount to pay? How long is too long to keep your driver waiting, and who should be more understanding: the person rushing out the door or the one waiting downstairs?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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Breakfast Bites: Should Singaporeans support another team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 01:45:24 +0000

Singapore may not be at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but that hasn’t stopped fans from picking sides. Whether it’s backing a favourite player, following a family tradition, supporting the underdog, or simply choosing the team with the best vibes.

So who should Singaporeans be cheering for this tournament and what makes us adopt a team that isn’t our own?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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The Final Score: Can Singapore learn from Cape Verde, who held tournament favourites Spain to a stalemate? | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 01:33:40 +0000

Cape Verde stunned tournament favourites Spain - holding them to a 0-0 draw in the World Cup opener. Could that serve as inspiration for an island-nation like Singapore too? Minister Edwin Tong weighs in on The Final Score together Neil and Raushan!

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Singapore Unboxed: Reigniting the 'kampung spirit' through World Cup 2026 Live Screenings

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 01:17:34 +0000

Can Minister Edwin Tong crack the clues? In this edition of Singapore Unboxed, Let’s Talk, Singapore puts him in the hot seat before revealing Singapore's FIFA World Cup 2026 community screenings. We also chat about football memories, kampung spirit and why some moments are simply meant to be shared.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday & Thursday at 8am for Singapore Unboxed.

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Ask the Minister: We know Edwin Tong the Minister, but what about the man?

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 01:17:01 +0000

He's usually the one answering questions in Parliament... But this time, Edwin Tong, Minister for Law and Second Minister for Home Affairs, answers yours. In this special segment, listeners take charge with questions ranging from football and community to personal stories and guilty pleasures.

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We Are Family!: Are Singaporean Fathers becoming better Dads than their own Fathers?

Tue, 16 Jun 2026 00:25:13 +0000

Modern fathers are expected to do it all. But are expectations growing faster than support?

Let’s Talk, Singapore and Minister for Law and Second Minister for Home Affairs Edwin Tong speak to Yuen Chee Onn, Chief Advocate at the Centre for Fathering, about masculinity, fatherhood and the invisible struggles many dads carry.

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Singapore Unfiltered: Is Singapore becoming a nation of greedy scalpers?

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 01:17:32 +0000

A viral flower exhibition has sparked a much bigger conversation. From concert tickets and collectibles to limited-edition merchandise, it seems like almost everything can end up on the resale market these days.

Have Singaporeans become too quick to buy things just to flip them for profit? Is scalping simply smart business or is it making it harder for genuine fans to enjoy the things they love?

Benjamin “Mr Miyagi” Lee, Playwright, Comedy Writer & Associate Director at APRW joins Let's Talk, Singapore as a special guest co-host.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek — LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 8am for Singapore Unfiltered.

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Ask Benjamin: Getting to know Benjamin 'Miyagi' Lee

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 01:11:44 +0000

He's usually the one asking the questions, but this time, the spotlight is on Benjamin 'Miyagi' Lee. Listeners get to know the man behind the mic in this special edition of Ask Benjamin.

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Talk of the Town: If the world stopped feeding Singapore, would we be ready?

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 00:17:16 +0000

Singapore imports more than 90% of its food, and the country's ambitious 30 by 30 food goal has now been revised. Was the target unrealistic from the start, or are we asking the wrong questions about food security?

Let’s Talk, Singapore invites William Haandrikman, Managing Director Fairmont Singapore and Swissôtel The Stamford and Crystal Low, CEO of Boon Teck to unpack the realities of Singapore's food ecosystem, from seafood farms and kelongs to hotels, supply chains and the future of dining.

Benjamin “Mr Miyagi” Lee, Playwright, Comedy Writer & Associate Director at APRW joins Let's Talk, Singapore as a special guest co-host.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 7.20am for Talk of the Town!

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Breakfast Bites: Is 2 years too long for National Service?

Sun, 14 Jun 2026 23:50:48 +0000

For generations of Singaporean men, National Service has been a rite of passage. But in a world that’s changing faster than ever, posing the question if two years is still the right amount of time. Could NS be shorter? Should it stay exactly as it is? Or is the real value of NS about more than just the number of months served?

We revisit one of Singapore’s favourite kopi tiam debates and find out where people stand today.

Benjamin “Mr Miyagi” Lee, Playwright, Comedy Writer & Associate Director at APRW joins Let's Talk, Singapore as a special guest co-host.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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The Final Score: Japan leave it late to rescue a point against Netherlands | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Sun, 14 Jun 2026 23:28:10 +0000

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is in full flow, as the group stages games come thick and fast. And it was Daichi Kamada who was the man of the hour - rescuing a point late on for Japan in their Group F opener. So, which team will go further in the tournament - Netherlands or the Blue Samurais?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Ask Kelly: Kelly Latimer Gets in the Hot Seat

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 02:30:05 +0000

She’s interviewed athletes, hosted live broadcasts and helped grow Singapore’s sports media scene. Now, it’s her turn to face the questions.

Join Kelly Latimer, TV presenter and partner at The Sports Arina for a candid and fun conversation driven entirely by you.

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Ask Colette: Colette Wong Answers YOUR Questions!

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 02:18:48 +0000

No scripts. No game plan. Just your questions. Sports presenter Colette Wong steps into the hot seat as we put your burning questions to her.

Expect candid stories, surprising answers and a peek behind the curtain of life as one of Singapore's most recognisable sports broadcasters.

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Singapore Unfiltered: What Does A Healthy Employer-Helper Relationship Look Like?

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 01:17:56 +0000

Recent theft cases involving domestic helpers have sparked difficult conversations in Singapore. But with more than 300,000 foreign domestic workers caring for children, elderly parents and households every day, how should trust and boundaries coexist?

From handing over house keys to relying on them for childcare, where should families draw the line between trust, responsibility and oversight? And how do both employers and helpers build healthy relationships built on respect and clear boundaries?

Colette Wong, Singaporean TV host and Sports Anchor joins Let's Talk, Singapore as a special guest co-host.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek — LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 8am for Singapore Unfiltered.

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Talk of the Town: Will Singapore ever qualify for the World Cup?

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 00:40:55 +0000

For generations of football fans, it has been the ultimate dream: seeing Singapore compete on the biggest stage in world football. But with the gap between regional hopefuls and global powerhouses growing wider, how realistic is that ambition today?

We speak to former Singapore international and coach Shasi Kumar about the state of local football, what needs to change, and whether a World Cup appearance is still possible in our lifetime.

Colette Wong, Singaporean TV host and Sports Anchor joins Let's Talk, Singapore as a special guest co-host.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 7.20am for Talk of the Town!

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Breakfast Bites: When should parents stop paying the bills?

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 23:34:27 +0000

University fees, phone bills, transport, even that daily coffee run — at what point should young adults start footing the bill for themselves?

While some parents see financial independence as an important life lesson, others believe supporting their children for longer sets them up for success.

Colette Wong, Singaporean TV host, and Sports Anchor joins Let's Talk, Singapore as a special guest co-host.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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The Final Score: 2 goals, 3 red cards and 80 thousand fans as Mexico get the party started! | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 23:24:33 +0000

Mexico got the World Cup party started as the co-hosts beat South Africa 2-0 - in a pulsating opener that saw THREE red cards. So does this now set the the tone for the tournament? Deepanraj Ganesan joins Neil and Raushan from Mexico City to tell us more!

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Singapore Unboxed: Your June Holiday Movie Guide 🎞️

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 01:15:17 +0000

This week on Singapore Unboxed, we're looking at a long-awaited animated sequel that's reconnecting audiences with some very familiar characters. While kids may be meeting them for the first time, plenty of adults are discovering they're just as excited for the movie as their children.

We're also exploring why childhood favourites continue to dominate the box office, how family entertainment has evolved over the years, and other family-friendly films making a splash this June holiday season.

Kelly Latimer, TV presenter and partner at The Sports Arina, joins us as a special co-host on Let's Talk, Singapore!

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday & Thursday at 8am for Singapore Unboxed.

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We Are Family!: If the Arts matter, why are they struggling?

Thu, 11 Jun 2026 00:21:31 +0000

With Pangdemonium set to close at the end of 2026, questions are being asked about the future of the arts in Singapore.

Actors Zachary Pang and Coco Wang Ling discuss whether Singaporeans can still build meaningful careers in the arts, how audience attitudes are changing, and what gives them hope for the next generation of creatives.

Kelly Latimer, TV presenter and partner at The Sports Arina, joins us as a special co-host on Let's Talk, Singapore!

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday & Thursday at 7.20am for We Are Family!

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Breakfast Bites: Is Pickleball too loud?

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 23:42:01 +0000

It’s one of the fastest-growing sports in Singapore, but not everyone is a fan of the distinctive pop-pop-pop sound coming from the courts. As pickleball continues to attract players of all ages, complaints about noise are also becoming more common in some communities.

So is the sport getting an unfair reputation, or is pickleball really louder than it needs to be? We serve up both sides of the debate.

Kelly Latimer, TV presenter and partner at The Sports Arina, joins us as a special co-host on Let's Talk, Singapore!

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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The Final Score: Kylian Mbappe's France to rule the roost? | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 23:41:40 +0000

Finalists in 2022 and champions of the world twice, will front runners France - led by the mercurial Kylian Mbappe - rise to the occasion to rule the roost at the 2026 FIFA World Cup? If not them, then who? The Final Score sets the scene ahead of the BIG kick-off!

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Miss Tam Chiak | Singapore Unfiltered: Why do Singaporeans complain about everything?

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 02:19:49 +0000

As Singaporeans, we’ve got plenty of traits that unite us. But an unusual one that many of us are probably guilty of has got to be the issue of ‘complaining’.

Just recently, power washing artist Marcus Pang went viral after he was reported for creatively cleaning sections of dirty concrete by an SMRT train staff. That’s even as the police confirmed he had done nothing illegal. So does the incident show our indifference or ignorance of the value of arts? And just because someone complains, does it necessarily mean they’re right?

STOMP'S Maureen Ow also known as famous food blogger Miss Tam Chiak joins the conversation.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek — LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 8am for Singapore Unfiltered.

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Talk of the Town: Why does nature keep being compromised in Singapore?

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 00:30:23 +0000

The illegal clearing of saplings at Lower Peirce sparked outrage across Singapore. But beyond the headlines lies a deeper question: Have Singaporeans truly become more invested in nature, or do we only notice our greenery when it's threatened?

N. Sivasothi, Senior lecturer at the NUS Dept of Sciences AKA "Otterman” joins Let’s Talk, Singapore, as they explore conservation, citizen stewardship and what it means to be a City in Nature.

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Breakfast Bites: When you travel, how long does it take for you to need local food again?

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 00:00:10 +0000

The holiday might be amazing, the sights unforgettable and the food delicious but for many Singaporeans, there comes a point when the cravings kick in. Maybe it's chicken rice, prata, laksa or just a proper kopi.

So how long can you survive overseas before you start dreaming about local food? And what is the first thing you eat when you land back in Singapore?

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The Final Score: Will Mo Salah's Egypt be one of the dark horses? | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 23:59:31 +0000

Everyone loves an underdog story. France in 1998. South Korea in 2002. Morocco 2022. So who will surprise as at the FIFA World Cup in 2026? Could Mo Salah's Egypt be one of the dark horses? Or even Asian powerhouses Japan?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Singapore Unboxed: What are we looking forward to this World Cup Season?

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 03:23:34 +0000

This week on Singapore Unboxed, we're diving into a collaboration that's bringing together two global obsessions: food and sport. Expect exclusive collectibles, limited-edition merchandise, special experiences and plenty of fans trying to complete a full set before it disappears.

We also dive into other exciting experiences, promotions and activities happening around Singapore this World Cup season, and where fans can soak up the tournament atmosphere beyond the matches themselves.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday & Thursday at 8am for Singapore Unboxed.

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Breakfast Bites: How important is it to know your mother tongue?

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 00:26:27 +0000

From awkward conversations with grandparents to struggling to order food in anything other than English, many Singaporeans have a complicated relationship with their mother tongue. Some use it every day, while others only dust it off during family gatherings or festive seasons.

So how important is being able to speak your mother tongue and what do we gain or lose when it starts to fade from everyday life?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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The Final Score: Neymar’s return; good or bad for Brazil? | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 00:25:38 +0000

Back in the Brazil squad for the first time since 2023, Neymar's inclusion in Carlo Ancelotti's 2026 FIFA World Cup squad received much fanfare. But with the tournament now just days away, the 34-year old is struggling for fitness - with reports emerging that he has yet to train with the rest of the team. So was it the right decision to call him up?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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We Are Family!: Do children with special needs belong in mainstream schools?

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 00:23:00 +0000

For children with special educational needs, choosing the right school environment is one of the most important decisions a family can make. While some students thrive in mainstream classrooms, others may benefit from more specialised support.

As Singapore continues to expand pathways for inclusive education, how should parents weigh the different options available and what factors matter most when determining the best fit for each child? Scarlet Leong, Senior Specialist Psychologist at the Dyslexia Association of Singapore, and Vivi Lee, whose son Marcus transitioned from a mainstream school to Pathlight School joins Let's Talk, Singapore to discuss how different school environments support different needs and what the right fit look like for each child.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday & Thursday at 7.20am for We Are Family!

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Singapore Unfiltered: Do Singaporeans care about our greenery?

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 03:04:43 +0000

Singapore is known as a City in Nature, with parks, nature reserves and green corridors woven into everyday life. But ongoing investigation into the unauthorised clearing of trees planted under a greening initiative has reignited questions about how much Singaporeans value our natural spaces.

In a city where land is scarce and development pressures are constant, how committed are we to protecting the greenery around us?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek — LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 8am for Singapore Unfiltered.

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Talk of the Town: How do you raise an elite athlete in Singapore?

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 02:56:58 +0000

Behind every elite athlete is often a family making countless sacrifices that few people ever see. From early morning training sessions and overseas competitions to balancing school, finances and expectations, what does it really take to support a child chasing sporting excellence?

Ahead of the World Cup and with global sporting dreams capturing attention once again, we speak to the mothers of some of Singapore’s most accomplished athletes — May Schooling, Hwee Keeng Maeder and Dawn Tan — about the realities of raising elite athletes and whether Singapore is becoming a place where sporting talent can truly thrive.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 7.20am for Talk of the Town!

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Breakfast Bites: How much are you willing to spend on a party?

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:33:12 +0000

A simple gathering can quickly turn into a surprisingly expensive affair. Whether it’s a child’s birthday, a baby shower, a wedding, or even a housewarming, the pressure to host a memorable celebration can come with a hefty price tag.

So where do you draw the line? Is it worth splurging for the experience, or have parties become more about keeping up appearances than having a good time? Join us as we unpack the true cost of celebrating.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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The Final Score: Will Kane finally deliver at a major tournament for England? | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Sun, 07 Jun 2026 23:26:56 +0000

With 15 goals across 5 major tournaments, Harry Kane has long established himself as England's talisman. But now having got that 'winning feeling' with Bayern Munich, can Kane help the Three Lions end 60-years of pain and bring it home?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Singapore Unfiltered: Eh, Singlish ok for office or not?

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 05:20:57 +0000

“Can lah.” “No need so kancheong.” “Steady or not?” Most Singaporeans switch effortlessly between Singlish and standard English depending on who they’re speaking to. But when it comes to the workplace, where should we draw the line?

Is Singlish a uniquely Singaporean way to build rapport and connect with colleagues, or does it still have a place only outside the meeting room? We unpack the language, identity and office culture behind Singapore’s favourite way of speaking.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek — LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 8am for Singapore Unfiltered.

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Talk of the Town: Singapore is clean. So, why are our hawker toilets still dirty?

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 05:03:50 +0000

Singapore is known as one of the cleanest cities in the world, yet public toilet cleanliness remains a persistent challenge.

From coffee shop toilets and civic responsibility to ageing populations and smart sanitation, Let’s Talk, Singapore spoke to Jack Sim, Founder, Restroom Association of Singapore, the World Toilet Organization, and Bottom of the Pyramid (BoP) Hub, about what our toilets reveal about society, culture and human behaviour.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 7.20am for Talk of the Town!

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Breakfast Bites: Halal/Non-Halal Tray Returns: How seriously do you take them?

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 23:59:30 +0000

Separate tray return stations for halal and non-halal meals have become a common sight in many hawker centres and food courts. But when you're clearing your tray after a meal, how much attention do you actually pay to the signs?

Is it an important matter of respect and consideration, or something many people overlook in the rush of everyday life? We unpack a uniquely Singaporean dining habit and ask: how seriously do you take tray segregation?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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The Final Score: Messi Magic's final hurrah? | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 23:29:15 +0000

At 39 years of age, Lionel Messi arrives at 2026 FIFA World Cup as a reigning world champion - having led his nation to the ultimate prize in 2022. With 13 goals in 26 appearances across 5 editions of the tournament thus far - will Messi inspire Argentina to become the first back-to-back world champions since Brazil in 1958 & 1962?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Singapore Unboxed: 40 Stories, 40 Floors - A portrait of Singapore life

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 01:18:42 +0000

Built from real conversations and encounters across Singapore's heartlands, 40 Stories offers a fresh and deeply local perspective on everyday life. Author Greg Rawson joins Let's Talk, Singapore, to discuss storytelling, community, and why some of the most meaningful Singapore stories happen in the spaces we often overlook.

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The Final Score: Cristiano Ronaldo's last dance? | 2026 FIFA World Cup

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:46:56 +0000

At 41 years young, Cristiano Ronaldo is heading into his SIXTH World Cup. That in itself speaks of the longevity of the Portuguese superstar - but is he still a hero his nation can count on, or is he a hindrance to their World Cup ambitions?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Breakfast Bites: Malaysia's aircon restaurant surcharge: Is this OK in SG?

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:46:17 +0000

A restaurant in Malaysia recently sparked debate after charging customers a surcharge for sitting in an air-conditioned section. In a tropical climate where many of us plan our meals around escaping the heat, the move has raised plenty of eyebrows.

But is it really that different from paying more for better seats, better views, or premium experiences? And if it happened in Singapore, would you be OK with it or would you walk out?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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We Are Family!: The biggest myths about divorce settlements in Singapore

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 00:45:01 +0000

The family home, CPF savings, investments, joint bank accounts - what actually happens to shared assets when a marriage ends? Many Singaporeans assume divorce settlements are straightforward or automatically split down the middle, but the reality is often far more complex.

In this episode of We Are Family, we speak with Justin Chan, Managing Partner of Justin Chan Chambers LLP, to explore the role of financial and non-financial contributions, common misconceptions about divorce settlements, and what couples should know when navigating one of life's most difficult transitions.

FIND OUT MORE: https://justinchanchambers.com/

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Miss Tam Chiak | Singapore Unfiltered: The stories Singapore couldn't stop talking about this week

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 01:36:04 +0000

This week on Singapore Unfiltered, we're unpacking two stories that got Singapore talking for very different reasons. One sparked debate about the treatment of domestic helpers and where the line should be drawn when it comes to expectations and respect. The other is a heartwarming moment between a father and son that reminded many of the simple joys of childhood.

Together, they raise a bigger question: what values are we modelling for the next generation?

STOMP'S Maureen Ow also known as famous food blogger Miss Tam Chiak joins the conversation.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek — LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 8am for Singapore Unfiltered.

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Talk of the Town: Could your home be a fire hazard without you knowing?

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:28:09 +0000

Residential fires in Singapore are rising, with recent blazes breaking out across Hougang, Yishun, Punggol and Telok Blangah.

From unattended cooking to overloaded sockets and lithium-ion batteries, Let’s Talk, Singapore explores what’s really causing more home fires today with Andy Choo, Senior Forensic Scientist, Health Sciences Authority and the hidden dangers many Singaporeans may be overlooking inside their own homes.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 7.20am for Talk of the Town!

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Breakfast Bites: "Market Price" menu items - Scam or legit?

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:25:22 +0000

You spot something delicious on the menu, only to see two words that instantly raise suspicion: Market Price. Is it a reasonable way to price ingredients that change every day or a warning that your wallet is about to take a hit?

From seafood restaurants to zi char stalls, we're unpacking the mystery behind "market price" and asking whether diners should know exactly what they're paying before they order.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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The Final Score: Are PSG now amongst the 'European elite'?

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 23:16:27 +0000

Having secured back-to-back UEFA Champions League titles - including a penalty shootout victory against Arsenal this past weekend - have PSG now cemented its status as one of the all-time greatest clubs?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Singapore Unboxed: The sweet side of history 🍍

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 01:41:16 +0000

This week, we're exploring an activity that proves history doesn't have to stay behind museum glass.

Expect stories from the past, a connection to Singapore's growth, and a hands-on experience that's equal parts educational and delicious.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday & Thursday at 8am for Singapore Unboxed.

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We Are Family!: Are adults to blame for 'screen time addiction' amongst children?

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:27:27 +0000

From YouTube and TikTok to gaming and group chats, screens have become a big part of childhood today. But when does screen time become too much, and are parents focusing on the wrong things?

Jiow Hee Jhee, Associate Professor at Singapore Institute of Technology and member of the Media Literacy Council joins Let’s Talk, Singapore with Neil Humphreys and Audrey Siek to unpack what screen time is really doing to our children from attention spans and sleep habits to social development and family relationships.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday & Thursday at 7.20am for We Are Family!

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Breakfast Bites: Is it OK to open packages to choose produce before you buy? 🍓🛒😅

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 23:43:18 +0000

You’re at the supermarket staring at a pack of strawberries, grapes or cherries. One looks a little bruised, another seems fresher. So... is it okay to open a sealed package to inspect the contents or swap out a few pieces before heading to the checkout?

Some see it as being a savvy consumer, while others think it’s inconsiderate and unhygienic. We unpack the supermarket etiquette debate that many Singaporeans have probably witnessed or participated in.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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The Final Score: With Arne Slot sacked, who next for Liverpool?

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 23:27:09 +0000

Were Liverpool harsh to sack Arne Slot after two seasons in charge, despite the Dutchman leading the club to a 20th league title in his debut campaign? And who should take over the reigns at the Reds?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Singapore Unfiltered: Is AI teaching our kids to cheat?

Fri, 29 May 2026 01:14:22 +0000

From homework and essays to exam revision and project work, AI is quickly becoming part of how young people learn. But as tools like ChatGPT become more common, parents and educators are grappling with a difficult question: where is the line between learning and outsourcing the work?

Is AI helping children build new skills, or making it easier to skip the thinking process altogether? As classrooms adapt to a new technological reality, we ask what responsible AI use should actually look like for the next generation.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek — LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 8am for Singapore Unfiltered.

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Talk of the Town: Are we living in Singapore’s nostalgia era?

Fri, 29 May 2026 00:06:11 +0000

In an era where malls are racing toward high-tech experiences, some are taking a very different route: nostalgia.

Let’s Talk, Singapore speaks to Mr George Chan, General Manager, City Square Mall, Retail Assets, Asset Management Division, City Developments Limited (CDL) as they explore the rise of “Newtro” culture, why younger consumers are drawn to retro experiences, and how malls are blending heritage, storytelling and modern retail to stay relevant today.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 7.20am for Talk of the Town!

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Breakfast Bites: How young is too young for a credit card?

Thu, 28 May 2026 23:59:08 +0000

A swipe here, a tap there - spending money has never been easier. But as cash becomes less common and digital payments become second nature, when is the right time for children to start using a credit card?

Is it a valuable lesson in financial responsibility or a recipe for impulse spending? We unpack how parents can help kids build healthy money habits in a world where spending often feels invisible.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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The Final Score: Will Arsenal beat PSG in the Champions League to complete a historic double?

Thu, 28 May 2026 23:42:29 +0000

All eyes on the big one, as Arsenal and PSG face off in the UEFA Champions League final on 30 May. What's the mood in the respective fanbases? And who will emerge victorious?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Singapore Unboxed: Childhood memories in full bloom this June holidays! 🌸

Thu, 28 May 2026 01:20:17 +0000

This week on Singapore Unboxed, we’re unboxing a larger-than-life attraction that mixes childhood nostalgia with one of Singapore’s most iconic destinations. Think familiar characters, immersive themed spaces, plenty of photo-taking… and a whole lot of fully-grown adults getting very emotional.

We also explore why nostalgia-driven experiences are becoming such a huge trend and why immersive attractions seem to thrive during the June school holidays.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday & Thursday at 8am for Singapore Unboxed.

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We Are Family!: Dad Duties 👶🏻 - Why More Singapore Fathers Are Staying Home

Thu, 28 May 2026 00:33:23 +0000

As more fathers step back from traditional full-time work to care for their children, conversations around parenting, masculinity and family roles are starting to shift too.

We speak to Jeggan Rajendram, who left a career in big tech to become a full-time dad to his two daughters. From hair-braiding workshops to questioning what success and fatherhood really look like today, we unpack why more dads are making this shift and whether Singapore is truly ready for it.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday & Thursday at 7.20am for We Are Family!

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Breakfast Bites: How much are you willing to splurge on Chicken Rice?

Thu, 28 May 2026 00:23:33 +0000

Chicken rice has long been seen as Singapore’s ultimate affordable comfort food but with some plates now crossing the $8, $10 or even $15 mark, many Singaporeans are starting to ask: how much is too much?

From rising ingredient costs and manpower shortages to changing expectations around dining and quality, we unpack why even everyday hawker meals are becoming more expensive and whether Singaporeans are still willing to pay for them. More importantly, what happens to hawker culture when “cheap and good” slowly disappears?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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The Final Score: The good, the bad and the ugly of the 25/26 Premier League season

Thu, 28 May 2026 00:23:30 +0000

Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes was crowned Premier League player of the 2025/26 season - but who else raised their game in the campaign gone by? Plus, who flattered to deceive...and who flat out flopped?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Ask Hossan: Singapore Asked. Hossan Answered.

Tue, 26 May 2026 01:30:15 +0000

For many Singaporeans, Hossan Leong is a familiar voice and face that has been part of local entertainment for years. But what happens when listeners get direct access to Hossan Leong? In this episode, we put Hossan in the hot seat for “Ask Hossan”, where listeners get to ask absolutely anything.

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Singapore Unboxed: June Holiday Madness! 🎉

Tue, 26 May 2026 01:22:31 +0000

The June holidays are here… and Singapore is turning into one giant playground. From hide-and-seek competitions and immersive gaming adventures to snow, sports and family-friendly festivals, Audrey & guest host, Hossan Leong, unbox some of the most fun activities happening around the island this holiday season.

So if you’re trying to keep the kids entertained, or just looking for an excuse to feel like a kid again, we’ve got your next outing covered.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday & Thursday at 8am for Singapore Unboxed.

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We Are Family!: Should parents ban their kids from dating?

Tue, 26 May 2026 00:20:15 +0000

Are teenagers in Singapore growing up too fast? From early relationships to online exposure and social media influence, many parents are struggling to navigate modern adolescent dating.

Audrey Siek and guest host, Hossan Leong, speak with Sam Roberts, Founder & Executive Director of Olive Branch Psychology to unpack how parents can guide their children without pushing them away.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday & Thursday at 7.20am for We Are Family!

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Breakfast Bites: What’s the first thing you’d cut if money got tight?

Tue, 26 May 2026 00:18:17 +0000

If your monthly expenses suddenly got tighter, what would be the first thing to go? Daily coffee? Streaming subscriptions? Grab rides? Gym memberships?

In a city where little expenses add up fast, Audrey and guest host, Hossan Leong, unpack the spending habits we secretly know we could live without… but really don’t want to give up.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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Singapore Unfiltered: Why is eating healthy in Singapore so expensive?

Mon, 25 May 2026 01:38:26 +0000

Salads that cost more than chicken rice, smoothies pushing double digits, and “healthy” snacks that somehow feel luxury-priced - trying to eat well in Singapore can sometimes feel painfully expensive.

But are Singaporeans really being overcharged for healthy food, or does eating clean naturally come with a higher price tag? From hawker centres to cafes and supermarkets, we unpack whether healthy eating here is becoming more of a lifestyle trend than an affordable everyday choice.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek — LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 8am for Singapore Unfiltered.

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Talk of the Town: What does Singapore owe its migrant workers?

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:51:50 +0000

From construction sites to cleaning services, migrant workers are deeply woven into everyday life in Singapore. Yet many remain socially invisible.

Featuring Alex Au, Vice President of Transient Workers Count Too (TWC2), Let’s Talk, Singapore explores dignity, empathy, public perception and the human stories behind Singapore’s progress.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 7.20am for Talk of the Town!

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The Final Score: West Ham relegated as 2025/26 Premier League season draws to a close

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:42:36 +0000

Tottenham survive by the skin of their teeth, while West Ham are relegated. We recap the final day mayhem in the English Premier League - and look back on the highs and lows of the season.

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Breakfast Bites: Is charging for an empty bowl going too far?

Sun, 24 May 2026 23:41:53 +0000

In a time of rising costs, tray returns and tighter margins for hawkers, where do Singaporeans draw the line between practicality and “nickel-and-diming”? And honestly… would you pay the 30 cents or not?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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Breakfast Bites: How serious are expiry dates, really?

Fri, 22 May 2026 04:21:03 +0000

You open the fridge, check the packet, and realise the expiry date was two days ago. Do you throw it away immediately or do the smell test and hope for the best?

From milk and bread to instant noodles and canned food, many Singaporeans have very different ideas about how seriously expiry dates should be taken. So are these dates strict rules… or just cautious suggestions?

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The Final Score: Spurs and West Ham in battle for the drop

Fri, 22 May 2026 03:47:20 +0000

On the latest episode of The Final Score, Neil Humphreys and Audrey Siek invite listener Daryl on to the show as they all give their predictions on the final round of English Premier League fixtures.

They are joined by special guest, Chelsea and England legend Joe Cole.

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Singapore Unfiltered: Are Singaporean cinemas dying?

Fri, 22 May 2026 01:42:05 +0000

Singaporeans used to have the highest number of cinema goers in the world. But the figures are declining in the age of streaming. Can local cinemas survive the digital age?

Let's Talk, Singapore invites Ben Slater, curator of Classics at Capitol to react to listeners' comments and views on the future of the local cinematic landscape.

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Talk of the Town: Can movies still bring people together?

Fri, 22 May 2026 01:40:14 +0000

From the closure of iconic cinemas like Cathay to the rise of streaming platforms, Singapore’s movie-going culture has changed dramatically. Yet audiences are still turning up for communal experiences like classic film screenings and local storytelling.

Let’s Talk, Singapore is joined by Ben Slater, curator of Classics at Capitol and Annette Lee, writer-director-actor of Dream Stall to discuss the future of cinema in Singapore, why nostalgia is making a comeback, and whether the big-screen experience can still survive in a digital world.

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We Are Family!: Has Singapore’s “Study Hard” Formula Stopped Working?

Thu, 21 May 2026 02:45:50 +0000

For years, Singaporeans were told the formula was simple: study hard, get a degree, land a stable job. But for many fresh graduates today, that promise feels a lot less certain.

With entry-level jobs now demanding multiple internships, industry experience and “third-year job” skills before graduation, has the university degree become just the bare minimum? And as Gen Zs push back against being labelled “not hungry enough”, are young Singaporeans really entitled or simply navigating a job market that’s changed faster than expectations have? Linus Choo, Managing Director, Regional Governance, Ethos BeathChapman joins the conversation.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday & Thursday at 7.20am for We Are Family!

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Singapore Unboxed: Family theatre picks around Singapore 🎭

Thu, 21 May 2026 02:41:58 +0000

From magical musicals and puppetry to ballet, circus acts and interactive theatre, Singapore’s family entertainment scene is packed this season.

On this episode of Singapore Unboxed, we’re unboxing some of the most exciting family-friendly theatre experiences happening around town, including larger-than-life stage productions, creative storytelling and immersive performances designed for both kids and adults to enjoy together.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday & Thursday at 8am for Singapore Unboxed.

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Breakfast Bites: Leaving work early for your kids - Fair Or Not?

Thu, 21 May 2026 00:09:08 +0000

For many working parents, leaving the office early sometimes just comes with the job. But in busy workplaces, it can also spark quiet frustrations, guilt or awkward conversations among colleagues.

So when family responsibilities clash with office expectations, where should the line be? And has Singapore become more understanding of working parents today?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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The Final Score: Has Salah's Liverpool legacy been tarnished by recent outbursts?; Chelsea to play in Johor!

Wed, 20 May 2026 23:33:56 +0000

Unai Emery continues his astonishing record in the Europa League, clinching a record 5th win in this competition ending Aston Villa's 30-year wait for silverware. Plus, has Mo Salah tarnished his Liverpool legacy with his recent social media outbursts? And why are Chelsea heading to Johor rather than Singapore?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Miss Tam Chiak | Singapore Unfiltered: Would you sell everything to see the world?

Wed, 20 May 2026 01:31:26 +0000

On this episode, we unpack two viral conversations that got Singapore talking this week.

First, why do we love queuing so much? From viral food launches to limited-edition drops, we explore why people here are willing to wait hours for certain experiences and whether queuing has become part of Singapore culture itself.

Plus, would you ever sell everything you own to travel the world? As more people rethink what happiness and success look like, we dive into the growing appeal of walking away from stability in search of freedom, adventure, and a completely different way of life.

STOMP'S Maureen Ow also known as famous food blogger Miss Tam Chiak joins the conversation.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek — LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 8am for Singapore Unfiltered.

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The Final Score: Arsenal are Premier League Champions!

Wed, 20 May 2026 00:46:15 +0000

Arsenal finally ended their 22-year wait for title glory - as Manchester City's draw at Bournemouth meant the Gunners were crowned 2025/26 Premier League Champions. We hear from a Gooner to soak up the North London euphoria, and wonder if Arteta's team could now secure an historic double?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Benjamin “Mr Miyagi” Lee | Talk of the Town: Why Must Singaporeans Queue For EVERYTHING?

Wed, 20 May 2026 00:42:28 +0000

Spot a long queue in Singapore and suddenly everyone wants in. Doesn’t matter if it’s bubble tea, watches, sneakers or free gifts somehow, the line itself becomes part of the attraction. So why are Singaporeans so obsessed with queueing? Is it kiasuism, FOMO, clever marketing… or have queues quietly become part of our national identity?

Benjamin “Mr Miyagi” Lee, Playwright, Comedy Writer & Associate Director at APRW, joins the show to unpack Singapore’s uniquely recognisable queue culture and why seeing a crowd somehow makes us want to join it too.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 7.20am for Talk of the Town!

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Breakfast Bites: Should cameras be mandatory during work meetings?

Wed, 20 May 2026 00:35:20 +0000

You join the meeting and immediately wonder if you can get away with leaving your camera off. For some bosses, cameras-on means better engagement and accountability. For employees, it can feel awkward, distracting, or even invasive, especially in a work-from-home world where personal space and professional life constantly overlap.

So should cameras during work meetings really be mandatory?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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We Are Family!: Work hard, play hard… or work too hard too young?

Tue, 19 May 2026 08:32:13 +0000

Are Singapore youths growing up too fast? As more teenagers and young adults enter the workforce earlier, many are balancing studies, financial pressure, hustle culture and career anxiety.

Let’s Talk, Singapore is joined by Julian Tan, Founder & CEO, FastCo Pte Ltd to discuss how young Singaporeans view work today and whether modern work culture is changing childhood itself.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday & Thursday at 7.20am for We Are Family!

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Singapore Unboxed: Unboxing Ladurée Macarons and exploring Singapore’s most iconic French treat

Tue, 19 May 2026 02:02:52 +0000

Tiny, colourful, and instantly recognisable. Ladurée macarons have become one of the world’s most famous luxury desserts.

In this Unboxed episode, Let's Talk, Singapore take a closer look at what makes them so special in Singapore’s food scene and whether these iconic French treats are really worth the hype.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday & Thursday at 8am for Singapore Unboxed.

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Breakfast Bites: Do you have a FAVOURITE public toilet in Singapore? We do!

Mon, 18 May 2026 23:45:57 +0000

Public toilets: unavoidable, deeply personal… and somehow one of Singapore’s strongest shared experiences. We've all been through this. Nature calls... but you've checked out the nearest toilet and it's not good at all! How long would you wait to avoid using a public toilet? From “trusted toilets” and hawker centre stories, we unpack the strange psychology behind where, and whether, we’re willing to go.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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The Final Score: Guardiola set to depart City; Mourinho returns to Real Madrid

Mon, 18 May 2026 23:18:55 +0000

With reports confirming the departure of Pep Guardiola from Manchester City at the end of the season after 10 trophy-laden years with the club - we discuss the Spaniard's legend and legacy. And as fate would have it, Pep's nemesis Jose makes the headlines too - with a return to Real Madrid on the cards.

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Singapore Unfiltered: Is ERP still working?

Mon, 18 May 2026 01:18:21 +0000

ERP 2.0 is set to roll out in Singapore by next year, with new on-board units and gantry-less technology set to replace the current system. But as the system evolves, so are the conversations around it.

Does ERP still influence the way Singaporeans drive today? Is it an effective way to manage congestion, or has it simply become part of the cost of owning a car here? We unpack the reactions, frustrations and questions surrounding one of Singapore’s most talked-about transport policies.

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Talk of the Town: Is retirement becoming a luxury in Singapore?

Mon, 18 May 2026 00:28:29 +0000

Retirement in Singapore is evolving. Rising living costs, longer life expectancy, and growing financial pressures are causing many Singaporeans to rethink what retirement truly means.

Let’s Talk, Singapore with Neil Humphreys and Audrey Siek invites Justin Fong, Fractional CMO & Founder of Retirement Guru to find out whether full retirement is still realistic today, why more seniors are choosing to continue working, and the hidden emotional side of ageing, including loneliness, purpose, and identity after leaving the workforce.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 7.20am for Talk of the Town!

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Breakfast Bites: My work’s done, why am I still in the office?

Sun, 17 May 2026 23:57:25 +0000

You’ve cleared your inbox, finished your tasks, and there’s nothing urgent left to do… but it’s only 3pm. So should employees be allowed to leave once their work is done, or does being “present” still matter at work?

As conversations around productivity, flexibility and burnout grow louder, we ask whether Singapore’s workplace culture is too focused on hours clocked rather than actual output.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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The Final Score: Guardiola's future, Alonso's appointment and Slot on shaky ground?

Sun, 17 May 2026 23:30:54 +0000

Could Pep Guardiola be heading into his final week at the helm of Manchester City? And with Chelsea confirming Xabi Alonso's appointment, have Liverpool missed a trick earning Arne Slot a stay of execution?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Singapore Unfiltered: Is Singapore getting too hot or is it just you?

Fri, 15 May 2026 01:38:54 +0000

If you’ve been sweating the moment you step outside lately, you’re probably not imagining it. From warmer nights and stuffier homes to unbearable midday walks, many Singaporeans say the heat feels more intense than ever before.

But is Singapore really getting hotter and if so, what’s driving it? And more importantly, how is this changing the way we live, work and move around the city?

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Talk of the Town: Why are cicadas swarming Tampines Changkat?

Fri, 15 May 2026 00:42:14 +0000

Why are cicadas suddenly dominating parts of eastern Singapore?

From their mysterious underground life cycle to the emergence of the orange-winged cicada (Asianopleura fulvigera), entomologist Foo Maosheng breaks down the science, ecological factors, and what residents need to know about Singapore’s latest biodiversity talking point.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 7.20am for Talk of the Town!

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Breakfast Bites: Can You Survive On $10 Of Food A Day In Singapore?

Thu, 14 May 2026 23:33:49 +0000

One kopi, one cai fan, maybe a snack… and suddenly your $10 is gone. In a time where even “cheap eats” don’t feel that cheap anymore, how far can $10 actually get you in Singapore today?

From hawker hacks and convenience store meals to the little sacrifices people quietly make, we put the ultimate budget food challenge to the test.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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The Final Score: Will Manchester City clinch an EIGHTH FA Cup?| Premier League Matchweek 37 Predictions

Thu, 14 May 2026 23:29:16 +0000

Will Pep Guardiola lead City to yet another FA Cup final win, or will Chelsea rescue a wayward season with victory in the Wembley final? Plus, Neil and Raushan take on a listener in a round of predictions ahead of the penultimate Premier League matchweek.

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Singapore Unboxed: Guessing the XPENG X9 Pro and the future of EV charging in Singapore

Thu, 14 May 2026 04:09:23 +0000

What if your car charged in the time it takes to grab a coffee? On this episode of Singapore Unboxed, Neil Humphreys, Audrey Siek and Dan Koh unpack the XPENG X9 Pro, its AI-powered features, and discuss what this means for the future of driving in Singapore, from charging anxiety to smart mobility.

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The Final Score: Foden inspired Man City close gap on Arsenal; Should Phil head to the World Cup?

Thu, 14 May 2026 02:18:10 +0000

The Premier League title race is going down to the wire - as City closed the gap on league-leading Arsenal to TWO points with TWO games to go. And could Phil Foden be peaking at the perfect time to secure a place in England's World Cup squad?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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We Are Family!: Can schools really teach kindness through caning?

Thu, 14 May 2026 02:17:10 +0000

As Singapore moves to standardise caning as part of its anti-bullying strategy in schools, the debate has gone far beyond discipline. Supporters say firm consequences are necessary to draw clear boundaries. Others question whether physical punishment contradicts the very values schools are trying to teach empathy, respect and emotional regulation.

Let’s Talk, Singapore is joined by Dr. Grace Soo, Principal Clinical Psychologist, Grace Psychology Services to unpack the psychology behind discipline, what research says about corporal punishment, and how schools and parents can respond to bullying while still supporting a child’s emotional development.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday & Thursday at 7.20am for We Are Family!

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Breakfast Bites: How expensive would petrol have to get before you stop driving?

Thu, 14 May 2026 00:08:46 +0000

Petrol prices go up… and somehow, the roads in Singapore still stay packed. But as driving becomes increasingly expensive, many Singaporeans are starting to ask themselves: at what point does owning a car simply stop making sense?

From convenience and comfort to status and necessity, we unpack just how far Singaporeans are willing to go to stay behind the wheel.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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Miss Tam Chiak | Singapore Unfiltered: Why can’t we agree on MRT seat etiquette?

Wed, 13 May 2026 01:53:58 +0000

It sounds simple...if someone needs the seat more, you give it up. But in reality, MRT seat etiquette in Singapore can feel surprisingly complicated. Who actually deserves a seat? Should we wait to be asked, or offer automatically? And what happens when offering a seat accidentally offends someone?

From pregnant women and seniors to exhausted NSFs and invisible disabilities, we unpack the unspoken social rules behind one of Singapore’s most awkward daily dilemmas.

STOMP'S Maureen Ow also known as famous food blogger Miss Tam Chiak joins the conversation.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek — LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 8am for Singapore Unfiltered.

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Talk of the Town: Are Singaporeans falling out of love and can the government be your wingman?

Wed, 13 May 2026 01:50:49 +0000

Dating today feels like a full-time job in Singapore… Endless swiping, awkward first dates, and disappearing matches. Now there’s even talk of government-backed matchmaking. So we have to ask: can the state really be your wingman?

On Talk of the Town, Let’s Talk, Singapore invites Rene Colond, CEO & Founder, Dream Match Services to discuss the government’s proposed “Firstdate” platform and whether matchmaking can truly be engineered in the modern world

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 7.20am for Talk of the Town!

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Breakfast Bites: What makes a café worth staying for?

Wed, 13 May 2026 00:11:40 +0000

Good coffee is one thing but what actually makes people want to stay? Is it the vibes, the food, the music, the air-con, the plug points… or just not being rushed out after 45 minutes?

From aesthetic cafés to hidden neighbourhood spots, we unpack what Singaporeans really look for when it comes to the perfect place to chill.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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The Final Score: Why does Asia not want to watch the World Cup?

Tue, 12 May 2026 23:38:46 +0000

Could China and India playing hardball over the 2026 FIFA World Cup broadcasting deals set an unhealthy precedence for future deals for the rest of the world? And is greed ruining the beautiful game?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score only on Let's Talk Singapore | Weekdays 6-10am

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Rishi & Parkash Budhrani | We Are Family!: Arts Over Academics, Career Suicide?

Tue, 12 May 2026 02:15:01 +0000

Comedy, acting, music… Can Singapore parents truly support artistic careers in a system built around stability and academic success?

Let’s Talk, Singapore speaks with Comedian and Actor, Rishi Budhrani and his father, Parkash Budhrani, Founder of Abba’s Department Store about generational expectations, creative risk-taking and whether Singapore is becoming more open to unconventional career paths.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday & Thursday at 7.20am for We Are Family!

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Singapore Unboxed: Rishi Budhrani's Tailor-Made Singapore Story

Tue, 12 May 2026 02:08:08 +0000

This week, we unbox a live local production centred around a profession that’s slowly disappearing in Singapore — but the stories, personalities and unsolicited comments that come with it definitely aren’t.

It’s funny, nostalgic, deeply Singaporean, and unexpectedly emotional in all the right places.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday & Thursday at 8am for Singapore Unboxed.

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Breakfast Bites: $1.50 Kopi vs $9+ Flat White - How much would you pay for coffee?

Mon, 11 May 2026 23:52:22 +0000

From kopi downstairs to fancy iced lattes with oat milk and sea salt foam, coffee prices in Singapore seem to be climbing fast. Some people swear good coffee is worth every cent but others think paying more than a meal for caffeine is ridiculous.

So where do you draw the line when it comes to your daily cup?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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The Final Score: Should Marcus Rashford come back to the Premier League?

Mon, 11 May 2026 23:23:50 +0000

"I don't know, I am not a magician. If I was, I would stay. We will see..." - Marcus Rashford, who has flourished on loan at Barcelona from Manchester United, in response to his club future. So should he stay, should he go?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score

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Singapore Unfiltered: Are HDBs still affordable for young Singaporeans?

Mon, 11 May 2026 01:57:38 +0000

Owning an HDB flat has long been seen as a major milestone for young Singaporeans. But with rising resale prices, higher costs of living and long waiting times for BTO flats, many are feeling increasing pressure when it comes to buying their first home.

So are HDBs still keeping pace with what young Singaporeans can realistically afford today and how are expectations around home ownership starting to change?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek — LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 8am for Singapore Unfiltered.

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Talk of The Town: How did Singapore's public housing get to $1.7 million and is it fair?

Mon, 11 May 2026 01:52:40 +0000

HDB resale prices in Singapore have reached new highs, with some flats selling for over $1.7 million. But are salaries keeping up? Is public housing still affordable for the average Singaporean?

Let’s Talk, Singapore invites Timothy Ho, Co-founder and Managing Editor at DollarsandSense to break down the rising cost of HDB flats, what’s driving demand, and whether the housing dream is changing forever.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 7.20am for Talk of the Town!

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The Final Score: West Ham's pain, Arsenal gain? Were the Hammers robbed by VAR?

Mon, 11 May 2026 00:21:45 +0000

Were the Hammers robbed by VAR? And do the Gunners have one hand on the Premier League trophy? Plus, recapping our round of Premier League predictions from last week. How did Neil & Raushan fare against our listener? Tune in to find out!

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan on Let's Talk, Singapore - LIVE every weekday for The Final Score!

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Breakfast Bites: Junk food for breakfast - Yay or Nay?

Sun, 10 May 2026 23:47:41 +0000

Cold pizza, bubble tea, fries, leftover nuggets...we’ve all had those mornings where “breakfast” feels more chaotic than healthy. But is junk food for breakfast secretly underrated, or is it the worst way to start the day?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.05am for Breakfast Bites

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The Final Score: How proud will Unai Emery's mother be?; Premier League Matchweek 36 predictions

Sat, 09 May 2026 05:43:34 +0000

Unai Emery is through to a record 7th Europa League final, eyeing a competition record 5th win. Can Aston Villa get their hands on the cup? Plus, Neil and Raushan pit themselves against a listener ahead of the Premier League weekend.

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 7.10am for The Final Score.

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Singapore Unfiltered: Are Singaporean mothers carrying too much?

Fri, 08 May 2026 03:20:22 +0000

Many mothers in Singapore today are balancing careers, caregiving, household responsibilities and emotional labour, often all at once. While conversations around equality have progressed, some feel that much of the pressure at home still falls disproportionately on women.

Let's Talk, Singapore with Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek speak with Sunita Sue Leng author of The Unlikely Motherhood Of Shaleni May

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek — LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 8am for Singapore Unfiltered.

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Talk of the Town: What does being a mother in Singapore look like today?

Fri, 08 May 2026 01:14:59 +0000

Motherhood today doesn’t always follow the script people once expected. Here in Singapore, women are having children later in life, some are choosing alternative paths to parenthood and conversations around fertility, family and parenting are becoming far more open than before.

Ahead of Mother’s Day, Let's Talk, Singapore with Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek speak with Sunita Sue Leng author of The Unlikely Motherhood Of Shaleni May

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.40am for Talk of the Town!

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We are Family!: What do mums actually want for Mother’s Day?

Thu, 07 May 2026 23:40:29 +0000

Flowers, brunches, handwritten cards - Mother’s Day often comes with big expectations. But beyond the gifts and social media posts, what does an ideal Mother’s Day really look like to mums themselves?

Is it quality time, peace and quiet, feeling appreciated… or simply getting a break? This Mother’s Day, we unpack the small things that might matter more than the grand gestures.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 6.40am for We Are Family!

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Breakfast Bites: How much should you spend for Mother's Day?

Thu, 07 May 2026 22:56:54 +0000

Mother’s Day has become big business: flowers, gifts and packed-out restaurants. But in the pressure to “do enough,” are we forgetting what mums actually want? Audrey and Neil chat about the rising cost and commercialisation of Mother’s Day in Singapore, and some simple ways to make mums feel truly seen, appreciated and cared for.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 6.20am for Breakfast Bites

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Singapore Unboxed: Trade The Mall For Something Different this Mother's Day

Thu, 07 May 2026 02:35:20 +0000

Flowers and brunch are nice… but what if this Mother’s Day was a little more adventurous? From slowing down and soaking in the scenery to trying something just slightly out of the ordinary, we’re talking experiences that get you moving, laughing and spending actual quality time together.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday & Thursday at 8am for Singapore Unboxed.

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Talk of the Town: Having kids in Singapore, blessing or burden?

Thu, 07 May 2026 01:12:01 +0000

For generations, having children was simply part of life. But in modern Singapore, rising costs, career pressures, and changing priorities are reshaping that expectation. As more couples choose homes over parenthood, we ask: what does family mean today and why are fewer people choosing it?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.40am for Talk of the Town!

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The Final Score: Will PSG win back-to-back Champions League titles?

Wed, 06 May 2026 23:39:11 +0000

PSG will be vying to become only the second team in the Champions League era to defend their continental crown, having booked their berth in the 2025/26 UCL final. But could Arsenal crash the Parisian party?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score

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Breakfast Bites: Want Us To Have Kids? Make It Make Sense

Wed, 06 May 2026 23:38:40 +0000

From baby bonuses, childcare subsidies, parental leave, Singapore has rolled out plenty of support to encourage parenthood. But for many young adults, the bigger question remains: is having kids today emotionally, financially, and mentally realistic?

As birth rates continue to fall, are Singaporeans rejecting parenthood or just responding to the realities around them?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 6.20am for Breakfast Bites

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We Are Family!: Is Raising Successful Kids In Singapore Pay-To-Win?

Wed, 06 May 2026 23:38:15 +0000

From tuition, enrichment classes, overseas exposure, family networks, some children grow up with opportunities others simply don’t have access to

This poses the question: how much of success really comes down to hard work, and how much depends on the advantages you’re born into? As the pressure to “keep up” grows, unequal opportunities becoming harder to ignore.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 6.40am for We Are Family!

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Talk of The Town: KF Seetoh on Singapore's "eroding" hawker culture

Wed, 06 May 2026 02:41:04 +0000

Hawker food has always been more than just a meal - it’s identity, community, and comfort. But as prices rise and expectations clash, the relationship between diners and hawkers is shifting. Do we truly value this culture, or only when it stays cheap?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.40am for Talk of the Town

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Singapore Unfiltered: Are We Too Harsh on our Hawkers?

Wed, 06 May 2026 01:40:19 +0000

Got a bad meal at a hawker stall - do you keep it to yourself, or post it online for everyone to see? And when does feedback cross the line into public shaming? Maybe its time to rethink the expectations we place on hawkers and what “value for money” really means.

STOMP'S Maureen Ow also known as famous food blogger Miss Tam Chiak joins the conversation.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek — LIVE every Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 8am for Singapore Unfiltered.

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The Final Score: Will Arteta’s Arsenal actually win the Champions League?

Tue, 05 May 2026 23:48:07 +0000

Through to the Champions League final for the first time in 20 years, top of the Premier League 5 points clear of their closest rivals - could Mikel Arteta's Arsenal be on the cusp of an historic double?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score

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We are Family!: Elder Care Home or Filial Duty? The Singapore Dilemma

Tue, 05 May 2026 23:21:46 +0000

In a society shaped by filial piety, the idea of moving ageing parents into elder care can spark instant judgement. Yet with packed schedules, limited space, and increasing medical needs, many Singaporean families are asking: Is keeping parents at home always the best care or just the expected one?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 6.40am for We Are Family!

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Breakfast Bites: Do you care enough about your elderly parents?

Tue, 05 May 2026 22:49:35 +0000

We all say we care about our parents, but how does that actually show up in everyday life? In this reflective Breakfast Bites, Audrey and Neil explore whether they are doing enough for their ageing parents, beyond just financial support: and why time, presence, and connection may matter more than we think.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 6.20am for Breakfast Bites

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Singapore Unboxed: Mother’s Day Movie Picks! 🍿

Tue, 05 May 2026 01:21:25 +0000

Ahead of Mother’s Day this Sunday, we unbox a movie that could be your pick for a night at the theatres with your mom. But if you prefer to stay in, we got you covered too - as we discuss 5 films that you could stream from the comfort of your home!

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Tuesday & Thursday at 8am for Singapore Unboxed.

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Talk of the Town: Are Singapore malls losing their soul?

Tue, 05 May 2026 00:32:13 +0000

For years, heartland malls have been woven into the fabric of neighbourhood life. Now, in Clementi, that sense of familiarity may be slipping. Reports of steep rent hikes and the potential loss of local and halal businesses are sparking unease among residents. Is this the beginning of a deeper transformation, one that could reshape what heartland malls mean to the communities they serve in Singapore? Ethan Hsu, CEO & Founder, Catbird and Karen Ang, a resident of Clementi weigh in on Talk of the Town.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.40am for Talk of the Town!

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The Final Score: Have Manchester City BOTTLED their Premier League title chances?

Tue, 05 May 2026 00:27:00 +0000

Having dropped 2 valuable points at Everton, have Manchester City lost ground in their bid to topple Arsenal at the top of the Premier League table? Plus, Chelsea’s season goes from bad to worse.

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score

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We are Family!: The fine line between 'safety' and 'stalking'

Mon, 04 May 2026 23:31:19 +0000

With rising concerns over addiction, safety, and mental health, some parents are going cold turkey on devices. But in a hyper-connected world, is that realistic or even fair?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 6.40am for We Are Family!

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Breakfast Bites: Banning phones for your kids - extreme or necessary?

Mon, 04 May 2026 22:55:08 +0000

No phones at all or just tighter control? Our Let's Talk Singapore poll says it all: 1 in 4 parents say banning phones is necessary, a small but vocal group say it’s too extreme, and most are backing supervision instead. So what actually works when raising kids in the digital age?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 6.20am for Breakfast Bites

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Breakfast Bites: Is the COE System Working?

Mon, 04 May 2026 01:40:51 +0000

$120K+ for a COE... how is this working out for your family? From the sheer cost of car ownership, to individual families with different needs, is the system fair? Audrey and Neil chat about what listeners had to say, some possible changes people have been weighing, and their own experiences.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 6.15am for Breakfast Bites!

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Singapore Unfiltered: Do Singapore drivers lack road awareness and courtesy?

Mon, 04 May 2026 01:38:12 +0000

With traffic deaths hitting a 10-year high, we explore what’s happening on our roads. Is it poor driving skills or worsening attitudes?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 8am for Singapore Unfiltered.

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We Are Family!: Should parents drive their kids to school?

Mon, 04 May 2026 01:05:25 +0000

Should independence start from the daily commute to school for Singaporean kids? Or should they be ferried from doorstep to doorstep?

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 6.40am for We are Family!

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Talk of the Town: Will rising COE and oil prices aid Singapore's "car-lite" ambitions?

Mon, 04 May 2026 00:54:38 +0000

Singapore has long pushed towards a “car-lite” future but for many people on the ground, the question is far more personal. Between rising COE prices, changing work patterns and the growing appeal of electric vehicles, how are individuals and families actually deciding whether a car is still worth it? Jake Ler, Chief Marketing Officer from Motorist Singapore weighs in.

Join Neil Humphreys & Audrey Siek - LIVE every weekday at 7.40am for Talk of the Town.

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The Final Score: Is the Manchester United-Liverpool still the biggest rivalry in world football?

Sun, 03 May 2026 23:44:28 +0000

Manchester United's 3-2 win over arch-rivals Liverpool secured the Red Devils a return to the UEFA Champions League for next season. But is this age old rivalry still the BIGGEST in world football?

Join Neil Humphreys & Zia-ul Raushan - LIVE every weekday at 6.50am for The Final Score.

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US Markets Wrap: Ignore the Noise - How to Trade the Midterms and Overvalued Tech

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 05:37:22 +0000

Are semiconductor stocks stretched too far? Abe Sheikh, CIO, Cordoba Advisory Partners breaks down the latest market outlook, including why it might be time to short the chip rally and shares where investors can rotate into for better value.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang
Image: Geralt via Pixabay

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The Final Breakfast Show: Ryan and Audrey turn the tables

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 00:36:52 +0000

It’s the end of an era on The Breakfast Show on MoneyFM 89.3.

After more than two and a half years, Ryan and Audrey take a walk down memory lane as we mark the end of the show (and welcome in a new program), before flipping the script and interviewing each other for the very first time.

Expect candid moments, untold stories, and a look ahead at what’s next!

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Breakfast Quiz: Goodbye! We take a walk down memory lane with Ryan

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 23:29:13 +0000

Ryan puts on his quizmaster hat for the last time!

Don't worry, you'll still hear from us every day; but after more than two and a half years, MoneyFM 89.3 is making some changes to programming, and we are taking the morning to say goodbye to the Breakfast Show with Ryan and Audrey (and Emaad!).

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US Markets Wrap: Oil Shock Meets AI Reality Check

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 08:09:50 +0000

Stocks pulled back from record highs as rising oil prices and the shock exit of the UAE from OPEC rattled sentiment. At the same time, concerns over slowing growth at OpenAI hit semiconductor stocks, raising fresh questions about the cost of sustaining the AI boom. Isaac Wakszol, CEO, Activest Wealth Management discusses with Big Tech earnings ahead, is this just a pause or the start of a deeper rethink?

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Morning Shot: Why Cyberattacks Are Getting Smarter And What SMEs Are Missing

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 02:04:52 +0000

Cyberattacks have come a long way, from nuisance malware a decade ago to highly coordinated operations powered by artificial intelligence. Today, attackers can automate ransomware campaigns, scan for vulnerable systems at scale, and even mimic human behaviour to slip past security checks. For many businesses, especially SMEs, the risks are no longer theoretical but immediate and costly.

In this episode of Morning Shot, the Breakfast Show speaks with Sebastian Phua, Head of Business Strategy at Delta Underwriting, who brings an “offense-informed” perspective shaped by hands-on experience as a Certified Ethical Hacker.

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Companies To Watch: Match Group bets on the future of dating with $100 million Sniffies investment

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 00:26:09 +0000

Match Group has invested $100 million into Sniffies, signaling a shift in the online dating landscape. As traditional swipe-based apps face user fatigue, the company is exploring new formats and communities while leaning into artificial intelligence to reshape user experience.

Dan Koh, Ryan Huang and Audrey Siek find out what this move means for the future of dating and digital platforms.

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Breakfast Bites: You are what you eat - your diet affects your focus!

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 22:59:57 +0000

From that mid-afternoon slump to struggling to focus at work, could your diet be to blame? We break down new research linking ultra-processed foods to lower attention spans, and explore how everyday choices may be impacting your energy, mood and performance more than you think!

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong and Dan Koh

Photo and music credit: Pixabay and their talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: The Modern CMO - Balancing Long-Term Brand with Immediate Sales

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 03:23:59 +0000

Brand building takes time, but the board wants sales today. Stryv's Chief Marketing Officer Vanessa Tan shares her executive playbook for navigating the ultimate modern marketing dilemma. Drawing from her experience driving growth at tech giants like Xiaomi and Razer, Vanessa reveals how to balance long-term storytelling with immediate, hard-dollar ROI. She discusses how to kill "vanity metrics," the mechanics of building a challenger brand on a budget, and how artificial intelligence is completely rewriting the rules of the modern marketing department.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Record Highs, AI Cracks, and the Geopolitical Gamble

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 03:08:44 +0000

The S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite have scaled new summits, inching up to new record highs, but beneath the surface of this historic rally, a tug-of-war is emerging between robust corporate fundamentals and a thickening fog of global instability. Mark Giambrone, Head of US Equities and Portfolio Manager at Barrow Hanley Global Investors, to dissect the "Earnings Shield" protecting the markets from a fresh escalation in the Strait of Hormuz and stalled Iran peace talks.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang
Image: Geralt via Pixabay

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Companies To Watch: Avis stock surges 600 percent before crashing 70 percent

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 01:48:39 +0000

Avis Budget Group has experienced one of the most extreme stock moves in recent market history, with shares surging more than 600% before plunging nearly 70% in just days. The dramatic move was driven by a massive short squeeze, high short interest, and limited share supply rather than fundamental improvements in the business.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down what triggered the rally, why the stock reversed so quickly, and what investors should watch next.

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Bigger Pic: The opportunities (& risks) in overseas property investments

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 01:31:41 +0000

Most Singaporeans invest in property close to home, but what if the real opportunities are overseas? We speak to Han Teo and Tracy Peh of Byte Sized Investments about how they built a multi-million dollar US real estate portfolio from Singapore, and unpack the risks, realities, and what it truly takes to make it work.

Presented and produced by Audrey Siek

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Breakfast Bites: Business with Besties - Great idea, or friendship risk?

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 00:47:17 +0000

Would you start a business with your buddy if the offer came up today? We dig into the real pros and cons of mixing friendship with entrepreneurship… from shared vision to blurred boundaries, power struggles, and the very real risk of losing the friendship itself.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Dan Koh

Photo and music credit: Pixabay and their talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Special: Rethinking the Performance Appraisal “Black Box”

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 00:08:14 +0000

Performance appraisal season is here again and for many, it still feels like a process that’s hard to read and even harder to influence. From self-assessments to peer feedback and final ratings, the outcome can often feel like it’s decided behind closed doors, long before the formal review even takes place.

In this episode of Morning Shot, we speak with Roger Pua, former Asia Pacific Head of Communication and Brand at LinkedIn, to unpack how performance appraisals actually work in practice and what employees can do to navigate them more effectively.

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Breakfast Special: The Business of "You" - Retiring at 39 and Treating Your Career Like an Asset

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 07:58:51 +0000

We often talk about the hustle of climbing the corporate ladder, but what if the real secret to financial independence is treating yourself as the ultimate business entity? Christopher Ng, a Financial Educator, Bestselling Author, and a man who achieved Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) at just 39 years old shares how he did it, all without ever earning a massive C-suite salary. Instead of relying on corporate loyalty and a single paycheck, he mastered extreme discipline, relentless dividend investing, and ultimate career agility. Christopher also opens up about his deeply personal backstory, sharing how watching his father transition from a founder of Pet Lovers Centre to a blue-collar worker fundamentally shaped his radical approach to risk management.

Presented: Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

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Bigger Pic: The Q2 Playbook - Anchoring Your Portfolio in Geopolitical Chaos

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 02:55:33 +0000

With oil prices rising again in the wake of canceled peace talks between the US and Iran, plus inflation fears reigniting, Brandon Ho, Head of Investment Advisory, Singapore, Arta Finance breaks down the Fed’s looming dilemma and the tech sector’s deepening valuation split. He explores the breakdown of traditional bonds as safe havens and where private credit fits into the equation amid concerns of stress in the sector.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Calista Liaw on building LIAÜ from Erhu Strings to Fashion Seams

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 00:53:59 +0000

What happens when a musician decides to express her ideas through fashion instead of sound?

The Breakfast Show invites Calista Liaw, celebrated erhu soloist & founder of LIAÜ, to talk about her journey from music to building a fashion brand from scratch and the challenges of turning a deeply personal vision into a sustainable business.

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Breakfast Bites: "Got discount?" - The real cost of “friend’s rates” in business

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 00:30:00 +0000

From discounted invoices to freebies, where do you draw the line when friends become clients? We unpack the unspoken rules of “friend’s rates,” why they can strain relationships, and how Singapore’s network-driven culture makes it even trickier to balance goodwill with real business costs.

Presented by Audrey Siek and Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music & Picture credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Highs, Lows, and the Hormuz Bottleneck

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 02:24:40 +0000

The markets teased investors with a glimpse of the mountaintop on Thursday, as both the S&P 500 and Nasdaq touched fresh all-time intraday highs before a dramatic reversal left Wall Street in the red. Steven Wieting, Co-Founder and Chief Investment Strategist at The CIO Group shares how he is repositioning his portfolio and his view of where safe havens are now.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: How Decibelist is turning everyday objects into Art Speakers

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:48:53 +0000

Most speakers are built to perform. But what if they were built to be seen as well?

In this episode of Mind Your Business, The Breakfast Show speaks with Brian Ho, founder of Decibelist, a Singapore-based brand that creates handcrafted “Art Speakers” designed to blend into and elevate living spaces.

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Bigger Pic: Are stocks too optimistic as oil prices rise and risks build

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:47:12 +0000

US markets are back at record highs, driven by strong Big Tech earnings and continued momentum in artificial intelligence. But with oil prices rising amid Middle East tensions and inflation risks lingering, are markets becoming too complacent?

On the Bigger Picture, Dan Koh speaks to Billy Toh, Regional Head of Retail Research, CGS International Securities as he breaks down what’s really driving the rally, from earnings and AI spending to valuations, geopolitical risks, and what investors should watch next.

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Companies To Watch: L’Oréal results highlight resilient beauty demand

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:23:23 +0000

L’Oréal has reported strong first-quarter results, with sales growth beating expectations and showing resilience across key markets including North America, Europe, and emerging economies. Demand for premium beauty products remains robust despite a challenging global environment.

Dan Koh and Audrey Siek look into L’Oréal’s latest earnings, what’s driving growth, and whether global demand for beauty products can continue to hold up in an uncertain world.

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Morning Shot: Inside The Singapore Open 2026 and Golf’s Changing Game

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:16:21 +0000

The Singapore Open is back, drawing top talent from across the region and putting a spotlight on Asia’s growing presence in the global game. But beyond the competition, the tournament also reflects broader shifts in how professional golf is evolving – from player pathways to the business of the sport.

Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner and CEO of the Asian Tour, speaks with The Breakfast Show about what this next phase of the Singapore Open represents, how opportunities for Asian players are developing and what it takes to run a tour in today’s changing golf landscape.

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Breakfast Quiz: Bet you had no idea these super common phrases were Shakespeare's!

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:13:09 +0000

“Wild goose chase”, “break the ice”, “fair play”... turns out, we’ve all been quoting William Shakespeare without even realising it. In this fun quiz, we break down the everyday phrases he coined, what they originally meant, and why they still show up everywhere from business meetings to casual conversations today.

Presented by Audrey Siek and Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music & Picture credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Record Highs & Red Flags

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 05:14:39 +0000

Wall Street is celebrating record highs following President Trump's U.S.-Iran ceasefire extension and a stellar earnings season fueled by major beats. However, with the Strait of Hormuz effectively closed and Brent crude surging past $100 a barrel, concerns are mounting over whether equity markets are dangerously complacent about escalating geopolitical risks. Miller Tabak's Chief Market Strategist, Matt Maley discusses if these strong corporate fundamentals can outlast an impending energy shock, or if it is finally time for investors to take chips off the table.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Bigger Pic: Why is property still our go-to wealth strategy?

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 01:44:15 +0000

Buying property has long been seen as the go-to strategy for building wealth in Singapore. But when you look at the numbers, returns don’t always outpace other investments like equities.

So why does real estate continue to hold such a strong grip on how Singaporeans think about growing their money? Alan Cheong, Executive Director of Research & Consultancy at Savills Singapore, to unpack the enduring appeal of property.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

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Breakfast Bites: Watch it when you sail... the average cruiser gains 5kg a week!

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 01:23:35 +0000

From all-you-can-eat buffets (and the extra kilos that come with it) to the surprising trend of retirees choosing life at sea, we dive into the business and lifestyle of cruising. With Singapore Tourism Board naming Singapore a regional cruise hub, we unpack why we love cruises so much! Is this just a holiday… or a whole new way of living?

Presented by Audrey Siek and Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music and picture credit: Pixabay and its talented team of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Why these founders chose to franchise BingXue in Singapore

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 00:52:44 +0000

Many founders believe entrepreneurship means creating something entirely new. But Joyce Lim and James Leong took a different approach.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, the founders of BingXue Singapore share why they decided to franchise an existing brand instead of building their own, the operational realities of running a franchise, competing in a crowded market, and the lessons this journey offers for entrepreneurs.

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Companies To Watch: Victory Giant becomes one of Hong Kong’s hottest AI listings

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 00:47:23 +0000

Victory Giant has made a strong debut in Hong Kong, raising over HK$20 billion and seeing its shares surge on the first day of trading. The company manufactures printed circuit boards used in AI servers and data centers, placing it at the center of the growing AI infrastructure boom.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang analyze Victory Giant’s business, what’s driving investor demand, and the risks behind the rally.

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Morning Shot: Retirement Age Is Rising, But Are Jobs Adjusting Accordingly?

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 00:12:37 +0000

Singapore is raising its retirement and re-employment ages, with more seniors staying in the workforce than ever before. But beyond the headline numbers, a deeper question is emerging: are we simply extending working years, or are we meaningfully rethinking what work should look like? From healthcare to the broader economy, examples of job redesign are beginning to show how roles can evolve to better match workers’ strengths at different life stages.

Christopher Gee, Senior Research Fellow, Institute of Policy Studies, NUS joins the Breakfast Show on this episode of Morning Shot.

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Mind Your Business: Goliath founders on creating an outdoor brand in Singapore

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 09:20:43 +0000

Starting an outdoor brand in Singapore isn’t the most obvious idea, but that’s exactly what Goliath is doing.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, The Breakfast Show goes behind the scenes with co-founders Kenneth Wong and Maribelle Su to understand what it really takes to build a brand from scratch and figuring out what actually sells.

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US Markets Wrap: Fragile Calm as Ceasefire Holds

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 01:08:26 +0000

Market sentiment is getting a lift after Donald Trump extended the US-Iran ceasefire. Oil volatility continues to dominate headlines, with prices swinging on every development tied to the Strait of Hormuz and shifting diplomatic signals. Ryan Detrick, Chief Market Strategist, Carson Group discusses whether markets are getting ahead of themselves on hopes for peace, how investors should navigate the turbulence in energy, and what mixed signals from earnings say about the strength of the consumer versus corporate America.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang
Image: Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay

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Companies To Watch: Apple CEO Tim Cook to step down as John Ternus takes over

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:24:44 +0000

Apple has announced that CEO Tim Cook will step down in September 2026, with longtime executive John Ternus set to take over. The leadership transition marks the end of a remarkable era that saw Apple grow into one of the most valuable companies in the world.

In this episode of Companies to Watch, Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down Tim Cook’s legacy, how Apple’s business and stock performed under his leadership, and what investors need to know about John Ternus.

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Breakfast Bites: Pics, plants or nothing - What does your desk/workspace look like?

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:10:55 +0000

Hot-desking, hybrid work, and clean desk policies are changing how we work, but does your workspace still shape how you feel and perform?

We dive into why your desk might matter more than you think: from productivity and stress to identity and belonging. What does your desk say about you?

Presented by Audrey Siek and Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music & Picture credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Morning Shot: NTU Makes AI Literacy Mandatory – Are Students Ready for an AI-First Future?

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:06:31 +0000

From August, Nanyang Technological University will make AI literacy compulsory for all students — not just those in computing. Alongside this, the university is rolling out free access to advanced tools from Google, including Gemini Enterprise, signalling a major shift in how higher education is preparing students for a workforce shaped by artificial intelligence.

In this episode of Morning Shot, the Breakfast Show speaks with Professor Christian Wolfrum, Deputy President and Provost, NTU, to unpack what this move means in practice. As AI becomes a baseline skill rather than a specialised one, what does it take to equip an entire generation to not just use these tools, but use them responsibly and effectively?

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US Markets Wrap: Navigating Global Conflict and AI Spending

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 03:24:09 +0000

José Torres, senior economist, Interactive Brokers breaks down a volatile Monday as Middle East tensions snap the Nasdaq’s historic winning streak. He dives into the record-breaking rotation toward small caps that is bucking the wider market trend, the high stakes of AI capital spending, and Apple’s bombshell leadership change announcement.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang
Image: Alexandra_Koch from Pixabay

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Mind Your Business: What does it take to scale an events business to an IPO

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 00:49:20 +0000

Major sporting events may look seamless on the surface, but behind every successful event is a business built on execution, trust, and scale.

On Mind Your Business, The Breakfast Show invites Vincent Chai, Executive Director and CEO of Kin Global Limited to find out what it takes to build and grow an events business in Singapore, how companies operate behind the scenes, and why their role is becoming increasingly important as Singapore positions itself as a global events and tourism hub.

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Companies To Watch: AEVEX debuts as investors bet on defense technology growth

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 00:23:06 +0000

AEVEX has recently gone public, raising $320 million as investors look to gain exposure to the rapidly growing defense technology sector. The company focuses on drones, autonomous systems, and intelligence platforms, areas seeing increased demand amid evolving global conflicts.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they investigate AEVEX’s IPO, its business model, and if this defense play is more than just hype.

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Morning Shot: Why Singapore Is Growing Uneasy About the US

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 00:07:48 +0000

Singapore has long been one of Washington’s closest and most pragmatic partners in the region. But new findings from the State of South-east Asia 2026 Survey suggest that sentiment may be shifting. From trade policy to geopolitical leadership, Singaporean stakeholders are expressing growing unease about the reliability and predictability of the United States even as its strategic importance remains unchanged.

Joanne Lin, Senior Fellow and Coordinator, ASEAN Studies Centre, ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute. Visiting Scholar at the MIT Center for International Studies, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack what’s driving this shift in perception.

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Breakfast Bites: Is "filial piety money" to your parents still a thing?

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 23:51:54 +0000

Do you still give your parents a monthly allowance, or has “filial piety” evolved into something else? We unpack why nearly 70% of Singaporeans still give, but why younger generations are shifting toward lifestyle support, and what it really means to show care in today’s economy.

Presented by Audrey Siek and Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music & Picture credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: S&P 7,000 vs. The Hormuz U-Turn

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 04:22:57 +0000

Just as global markets breached the historic 7,000 mark on a wave of ceasefire euphoria, the "geopolitical risk premium" has come roaring back. With Iran reversing its decision to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, the fragile optimism of the past week is facing a stark reality check. Vasu Menon, Managing Director of Investment Strategy at OCBC, examines this collision of record-high valuations and escalating energy threats. He dives into the latest earnings season takeaways to see if corporate margins can survive another oil shock, analyze the second-order effects of "sticky" inflation on central bank policy, and look ahead to a critical week of US retail sales data. Is the "soft landing" narrative still intact, or is the market's latest peak a house of cards?

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: How Jing Chan built sensibilities as a young founder

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 00:51:29 +0000

Starting a fashion brand sounds glamorous, until you realise how much of it has nothing to do with design.

Join The Breakfast Show as they speak with Jing Chan, founder of Sensibilities, about the misconceptions people have about starting a fashion label, and the lessons she’s learned building a business in a high-cost, highly competitive market like Singapore.

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Companies To Watch: PepsiCo starts 2026 strong as snack volumes recover

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 00:19:23 +0000

PepsiCo has reported a strong start to 2026, beating expectations on revenue and earnings while maintaining its full-year guidance. Price cuts on key snack brands, stronger beverage trends, and a broader brand refresh helped improve volumes, especially in North America.

In this episode of Companies to Watch, Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down PepsiCo’s latest earnings, the turnaround efforts shaping the business, and the risks still facing the company.

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Morning Shot: Why the Middle East Conflict Is Forcing a Rethink about Singapore’s Energy Security and Green Push

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 00:19:04 +0000

The recent conflict in the Middle East has triggered fresh volatility in global energy markets, but beyond the immediate price shocks, it’s also exposing just how dependent modern economies remain on fragile, imported energy systems. For Singapore, where most of our electricity is generated from imported natural gas, the question isn’t just about costs, but about vulnerability.

In this episode of Morning Shot, the Breakfast Show speaks with Jeffery Tan, Group General Counsel and Chief Sustainability Officer at Jardine Cycle & Carriage, to unpack why going green is not just a climate issue but a resilience strategy, how energy shocks are reshaping the way we think about efficiency and risk, and what this means for Singapore’s economic security going forward.

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Breakfast Bites: Job references - Would you risk your reputation for a friend?

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 00:17:09 +0000

If a friend asked you to be their job reference… but you know they weren’t exactly a star employee. What would you do?

We unpack real poll results, the pressure of protecting your “rice bowl” in Singapore’s tight job market, and the tricky balance between loyalty and credibility. Plus, practical ways to handle the situation without burning bridges or your reputation!

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Dan Koh

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Breaking 7,000 - What the Rally Is Really Telling Us

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 02:16:30 +0000

Wall Street is celebrating historic highs as optimism over a potential resolution to the Iran conflict pushes the S&P 500 past the 7,000 mark. The Nasdaq is also riding a massive wave of momentum by notching its longest winning streak since 2009. Mark Newton, Managing Director & Global Head of Technical Strategy, Fundstrat Global Advisors, dissect what the charts are really saying about this record-breaking rally. He explains whether the tech-heavy momentum is dangerously overextended and reveals if the underlying market breadth actually supports a longer run. We also explore the key technical support levels to watch if upcoming geopolitical talks stumble and discuss exactly how investors should position their portfolios to navigate potential macroeconomic headwinds.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Bigger Pic: Do SMID stocks hold any value in today’s market

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 01:03:48 +0000

Singapore’s small- and mid-cap (SMID) stocks are gaining renewed attention as market reforms, improving liquidity, and fresh institutional inflows begin to reshape the sector. But with oil prices rising, inflation risks lingering, and global uncertainty increasing, how should investors approach this space now?

On The Bigger Picture, Dan Koh invites Andy Wong, Senior Equity Research Analyst at OCBC to discuss what’s really driving the sector, how macro risks like rising oil prices and inflation are impacting smaller companies, and where investors can still find opportunities in today’s market.

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Mind Your Business: Christabel Chua on converting followers into customers

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 00:58:25 +0000

The creator economy has made it easier than ever to build an audience. But turning that audience into a real business is a very different challenge.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, The Breakfast Show speaks with Christabel Chua, co-founder of Bridge & Bella, about her transition from content creator to brand builder and how she used her experience as a creator to build a product-led business.

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Companies To Watch: Allbirds stock jumps over 400 percent on AI pivot

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 00:58:06 +0000

Allbirds has made a dramatic pivot from footwear to artificial intelligence, rebranding itself as NewBird AI and sending its stock soaring. After struggling with declining sales and selling off its core business, the company is now betting on AI compute infrastructure and GPU services.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down what’s driving the rally, the strategy behind the pivot, and whether this is a genuine turnaround story or a hype-driven move.

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Morning Shot: Can a Singapore Brand Stay Local Without Being Made Here?

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 00:11:47 +0000

As businesses grapple with rising costs, more are shifting parts of their operations overseas to stay competitive. But when a homegrown brand like Tiger Beer moves production abroad, it raises a deeper question: what do we lose when things are no longer made here?

Associate Professor Lau Kong Cheen, Head of the Marketing Programme at the Singapore University of Social Sciences’ (SUSS) School of Business joins the Breakfast Show to unpack whether rising costs are reshaping not just business decisions, but how we define what is truly “Singaporean” in a globalised economy and whether identity can endure even as production moves elsewhere.

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Breakfast Quiz: Can you identify these iconic voices?

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 00:11:45 +0000

No visuals, no hints… just voices. We celebrate World Voice Day with a fun, fast-paced quiz featuring some of the most recognisable voices of our time!

Play along with us — how many can you get before the reveal? Tune in and test your ears!

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Are markets too complacent? Nasdaq, S&P 500 hit new highs

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 03:52:25 +0000

The S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite are breaking records and riding massive win streaks, but is the market ignoring the risks right in front of it? Aninda Mitra, Head of Asia Macro and Investment Strategy at BNY Investments discusses a fascinating Wall Street session where the Nasdaq advanced 1.6% to hit 24,016 (marking an 11-day win streak) and the S&P 500 gained 0.8% to close at 7,023. While investors seem buoyed by hopes of a resolution to the Iran war, the Dow shed 72 points, reminding us that the broader economic picture remains complex.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Bigger Pic: After a record Q1, will global tensions cool property investments?

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 01:22:02 +0000

Singapore’s property investment market just posted its strongest first quarter on record — but rising geopolitical tensions could test that momentum. We speak with Leonard Tay, Head of Research, Knight Frank Singapore, on what’s driving the surge, where investors are placing bets, and whether global risks could derail the outlook.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

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Companies To Watch: JPMorgan delivers strong earnings but Jamie Dimon still sees risks

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 00:54:01 +0000

JPMorgan has reported stronger-than-expected earnings, with profit rising and trading revenue hitting a record as market volatility boosted activity across Wall Street. Investment banking also rebounded, while consumer spending and loan growth remained resilient.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down JPMorgan’s latest results, what drove the quarter, and why Jamie Dimon is still warning about risks.

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Morning Shot: How Southeast Asia Is Handling a More Unpredictable United States

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 00:32:43 +0000

For years, engaging the United States was seen as a way for Southeast Asia to secure stability and economic opportunity. But that assumption is now being tested. With tariffs, shifting alliances and a more unpredictable foreign policy under President Donald Trump, countries in the region are starting to reassess what engagement with Washington really means.

In this episode of Morning Shot, we speak to Kevin Chen, Associate Research Fellow with the US Programme at the Institute of Defence and Strategic Studies, S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Nanyang Technological University, to unpack why Southeast Asia’s approach may be shifting from pragmatic cooperation to something more defensive and what that could mean for the future of US–ASEAN relations.

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Breakfast Bites: Job hopping - Is it the new norm?

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 23:21:19 +0000

Staying at one company for 30 years used to be a norm, but times have certainly changed. We’re diving into the "Job Hopping" phenomenon—where a single move can net you a 20% pay bump compared to the usual 3% annual raise.

We break down the "Sweet Spot" for switching, what Gen Z and Millennials are prioritising, and whether your resume looks like a career climber or a red flag.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Outgrowing the Founder - How The Financial Coconut Scaled Beyond One Voice

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 05:40:00 +0000

Every successful business starts with a founder wearing many hats, but true growth requires outgrowing the reliance on just one person. Reginald Koh, founder of The Financial Coconut, shares his journey from a solo operator at his dining table to a strategic systems-builder.
He reveals his operational playbook for scaling a bootstrapped SME, from overcoming the media "personality trap" to systemizing creative quality and delegating daily control.

Presented: Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

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Bigger Pic: Energy Wars and the China Trade

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 05:27:57 +0000

The global balance of power is being rewritten not by weapons, but by energy. As oil shocks expose vulnerabilities across Europe and Asia, China appears to have quietly built a buffer through renewables, coal, and electrification, reducing its sensitivity to global supply disruptions. However, energy independence does not automatically translate into investor returns. Fierce domestic competition, government intervention, and structurally lower margins could cap upside even as China gains geopolitical strength. Aadil Ebrahim, Group Head of Equities, Klay explores how this shift is reshaping global markets, where the real winners are emerging, and how investors should position for the next decade of energy-driven competition.

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US Markets Wrap: Markets Climb the Wall of Worry

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 05:20:51 +0000

Stocks pushed higher on Tuesday as investors looked past geopolitical tension and focused on what could still go right. Despite a breakdown in U.S.–Iran peace talks, markets rallied on lingering optimism that a deal remains within reach. The S&P 500 is now within striking distance of its 52-week high, while the Nasdaq surged on continued strength in tech. Names like Oracle, Nvidia, and Palantir led the charge, reinforcing the market’s reliance on big tech momentum. Michele Schneider, Chief Strategist, MarketGauge Group breaks down what’s driving this resilience, whether optimism is justified, and how long this rally can last.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Companies To Watch: Bloom Energy becomes a hidden winner of the AI boom

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 00:42:27 +0000

Bloom Energy’s stock has surged after expanding its partnership to supply power for AI data centers. As demand for artificial intelligence infrastructure grows, electricity has become a key bottleneck, and Bloom Energy’s fuel cell systems are emerging as a potential solution.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they investigate what’s driving the rally, the significance of the large-scale deployment, and whether Bloom Energy could become a major beneficiary of the AI boom.

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Morning Shot: Why Singapore Is Acting Early With S$1 Billion Support Amid the Middle East War

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 00:24:28 +0000

Singapore has rolled out close to S$1 billion in additional support for businesses and households, even as the full economic impact of the Middle East conflict has yet to show up in the data. But this isn’t just about immediate relief. The timing of the move is raising a deeper question: what are policymakers seeing ahead and why act now?

In this episode of Morning Shot, we speak with Chua Yeow Hwee, Assistant Professor of Economics at Nanyang Technological University, to discuss the latest support package. He explains how early intervention can help manage inflation expectations, why targeted measures matter in a small open economy like Singapore, and what this signals about the risks to growth and prices in the months ahead.

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Breakfast Bites: Emotional spending - Are you splurging based on feelings?

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 23:35:14 +0000

It can be a cup of matcha. A trip to Bali. Just going through Shopee after a long day at work and checking out a cart of stuff you don’t really need.

We look at why 4 in 5 Singaporeans are impulse buyers, and share simple hacks to keep your "treat yourself" moments from breaking the bank!

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Singapore growth slows as global risks and inflation pressures build

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 15:14:53 +0000

Singapore’s economy expanded 4.6% in Q1 2026, missing expectations and slipping into a slight quarterly contraction. Manufacturing led the pullback while services lost momentum, even as construction held up. With energy prices rising amid global tensions, the central bank has tightened policy for the first time since 2022 to contain inflation, signaling a more cautious outlook ahead. Barnabas Gan, Group Chief Economist & Head, Market Research, RHB Bank shares how optimistic he is for the coming quarters.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Markets rebound as hopes build for a US Iran deal

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 10:41:11 +0000

Stocks reversed earlier losses to surge higher as optimism grew around a potential US Iran deal, with tech leading the recovery and erasing war driven declines. Oriano Lizza, Sales Trader, CMC Markets Singapore discusses whether the rally can last, key signals from inflation and earnings, and what to watch from US banks and upcoming China data.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang
Image: Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

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Mind Your Business: Is yachting becoming a lifestyle industry in Asia?

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 00:32:56 +0000

As Asia’s affluent population grows, so too does demand for new forms of lifestyle consumption, and yachting is emerging as one of them.

The Breakfast Show invites Jonathan Sit, Regional General Manager for the Marina Division at SUTL Enterprise on Mind Your Business to discuss the business behind the yachting industry, from marina infrastructure and regional expansion strategies to the shift from ownership to access.

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Companies To Watch: TSMC revenue jumps 35 percent as AI chip demand surges

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 00:32:16 +0000

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company just reported a roughly 35% jump in revenue, driven by strong demand for AI chips. The results reinforce TSMC’s position at the center of the artificial intelligence boom, supplying advanced semiconductors to major tech companies building AI infrastructure.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down what’s driving TSMC’s growth, why AI demand remains strong despite geopolitical tensions, and why TSMC remains one of the most important companies in the global tech supply chain.

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Breakfast Special: Is Saying “No” at Work a Risk or a Skill?

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 00:00:57 +0000

At work, saying “yes” is often seen as a sign of commitment, but over time, that can come at a cost. More responsibilities start to pile up, expectations quietly shift, and it becomes harder to draw the line without worrying about how it might be perceived. So how do you push back without being seen as uncooperative and what does saying “no” actually signal in today’s workplace?

Jennifer Loh Drysdale-Banks, organisational performance adviser and executive coach at recruitment firm Talent Merge, joins the Breakfast Show to look at how employees can have clearer conversations around workload and why consistently saying yes may be shaping expectations in ways people don’t always realise.

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Breakfast Bites: Disciplining kids - Where do you draw the line?

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 23:56:19 +0000

Our "Breakfast Bites" focuses on our poll question for the day: Imagine you saw a stranger publicly disciplining their child. Do you step in, or is it "not your business"? We unpack what our listeners voted for, and discuss our "cane-friendly" history, what the research says about physical discipline, and how we compare with other countries.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Morning Shot: Do Price Tags Matter More Than Price Per Square Foot?

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 00:14:37 +0000

New condo launches in Singapore are commanding record prices per square foot, yet buyers are still snapping them up. So what’s changed?

It seems buyers may be looking beyond psf figures, paying closer attention to absolute price, space efficiency and how well a home fits their needs. Leslie Yee, Senior Correspondent at The Business Times, joins us to break down why psf could be losing relevance and what this means for the property market going forward.

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Breakfast Quiz: Who knows Emaad best? A quiz to mark the end of an ERA

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 02:56:06 +0000

To mark Emaad's final day on the show (the end of an ERA), he decided to put a different spin on this week's Breakfast Quiz.

Audrey and Ryan remained in the hot seat, but instead of fielding questions about lifestyle, culture or history, their knowledge of Emaad was put to the test - his likes, dislikes and much more!

Have a listen!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: The Bull Case for Nam Cheong in a Crisis Market

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 03:23:03 +0000

We dive into the turbulent offshore energy sector to uncover a compelling investment opportunity: Nam Cheong. Despite global shipping bottlenecks, war-driven fuel spikes, and Middle East geopolitical shocks, Syahril Hanafiah, Research Analyst at RHB Banking Group maintains a definitive 'BUY' call on the Offshore Support Vessel (OSV) provider with a projected 35% upside. He unpacks Nam Cheong’s strategic pivot, its resilience against supply chain disruptions, its forward-looking ESG transition, and the catalysts needed to finally close its valuation gap.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: The Ceasefire Rally and Q1 Earnings Outlook

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 01:55:33 +0000

US stocks move higher for another session as the U.S. and Iran ceasefire holds steady. IG Market analyst Fabien Yip joins us to discuss the Dow turning positive for 2026 and what the latest PCE data means for your portfolio. She also previews the risks of the Q1 earnings season and the impact of rising oil prices on this recovery.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: How Airalo scales across Asia through partnerships and local execution

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 01:06:56 +0000

International roaming has long been expensive and inconvenient for travellers. But the rise of eSIM technology is reshaping how people stay connected abroad, enabling mobile data to be activated instantly without a physical SIM card.

On Mind Your Business, The Breakfast Show invites Melvin Ng, Senior Director, APAC Partnerships, Airalo to discuss how his company built the world’s first travel eSIM marketplace and scaled it into a unicorn.

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Breakfast Special: Goodbye, Emaad - A final on-air farewell

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 01:06:07 +0000

The Breakfast Show did something a little different this morning. Usually, Emaad’s the one asking the questions, and keeping conversations on track. But today, Audrey and Ryan flipped the script.

Because it is his final day on the Breakfast Show on MONEY FM 89.3, we thought it’s only right we put him in the hot seat for once.

We welcomed Emaad Akhtar to his first and last interview with us.

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US Markets Wrap: Markets Rip on a Two Week Pause

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 03:12:28 +0000

Stocks staged a massive comeback after Donald Trump signaled a temporary halt to attacks on Iran. The Dow surged more than 1,300 points while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq posted sharp gains. Investors are now weighing whether this is a turning point or just a relief rally. Christine Short, Head of Research, TMX Datalinx also digs into bank earnings, IPO momentum, and whether the resilient consumer can keep holding up.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang
Image: Geralt via Pixabay

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Bigger Pic: A look at S-REITs during geopolitical risk

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 01:45:40 +0000

As Middle East tensions drive volatility in oil, rates, and global markets, investors are rethinking where to find stability. Joy Wang, HSBC's Head of ASEAN Equity Research and ASEAN Property, explores how these shocks are flowing into real estate, and what it means for Singapore REITs, from sector shifts to where the real opportunities lie today.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

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Mind Your Business: Is your business designed to include or exclude?

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 00:59:03 +0000

Most businesses are designed around efficiency, scale, and transactions. But what if the way a business is designed also determines who gets included, and who gets left out?

The Breakfast Show invites Ravi Sinha, founder of Art Werkx to share how his creative café-studio is working with the Down Syndrome Association to design more inclusive, everyday experiences, and how businesses can balance accessibility with sustainability.

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Breakfast Bites: Digesting the "Early Dinner" trend - Is 5:30pm the new 8pm?

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 00:31:52 +0000

From 5:30pm dinner reservations to better sleep and digestion, younger consumers are shifting their mealtime earlier... but does it work in Singapore’s late-dining culture? We unpack the trend, the science behind early eating, and whether it’s time to rethink your dinner routine.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Special: Leaving a “Safe” Career to Build Something of Her Own

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 00:29:36 +0000

For many people, career success is often measured by progression – climbing the ladder, taking on bigger roles, and building stability over time. But what happens when that path starts to feel disconnected from the work you actually set out to do?

The Breakfast Show speaks to Theresa Pong, Founder & Counselling Director, The Relationship Room, about her decision to step away from a stable leadership role to start her own counselling practice. She shares what that turning point looked like, how she navigated the financial and emotional uncertainty that followed, and what she discovered about purpose, risk and growth along the way and what her journey might mean for others rethinking their own careers.

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Bigger Pic: Gold and Bitcoin Face a Fresh Safe Haven Test After the Iran Ceasefire

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 09:11:16 +0000

Markets are behaving in ways that are challenging the old playbook. Even after President Trump agreed to a two week ceasefire with Iran, gold is climbing instead of easing, while Bitcoin is showing surprising resilience under pressure. Mark Wong, Head of Trading at Independent Reserve, unpacks whether the definition of a safe haven is being rewritten, what shifting correlations mean for portfolio strategy, why institutional conviction in Bitcoin remains strong, and whether stablecoins may be the real utility play in crypto. He also examines whether quantum computing is becoming a credible risk for Bitcoin and the key macro signals investors should be watching as markets head deeper into Q2.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang
Image: Steve Bidmead from Pixabay

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US Markets Wrap: A Late Diplomatic Twist Lifts Wall Street

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 09:00:28 +0000

The major averages staged a late recovery after reports of a possible Pakistani-brokered delay in U.S. military action against Iran lifted sentiment. However, beneath the headline relief, investors are still navigating fragile geopolitics, mixed sector signals, Fed succession risks, and rising expectations for first-quarter earnings. Joseph Sroka, CIO and Co-Founder of NovaPoint Capital, shares his key market takeaways.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Bites: Beauty Pageants Featuring Camels, Goldfish & Barbie Dolls!?!?

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 05:54:31 +0000

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the term ‘beauty pageant’?

Elegance, style… glitz and glamour, maybe.

But quirky? Probably not the first word you’d think of.

Well, today, that’s exactly where we’re going.

On World Pageant Day, Emaad, Ryan and Audrey take you around the world to uncover some of the most unexpected beauty competitions — featuring humans, animals…and even plastic fashion dolls!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Ethically Sourced Coffee: Integrating Impact Into The Bottom Line

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 04:50:09 +0000

Did you know that 60% of the world's coffee is grown by 12.5 million smallholder farmers, 44% of whom live in poverty, and 22% in extreme poverty? Statistics like these would appear to support those who argue that the coffee industry is by and large a highly extractive one.

Enter NoFilter, a social enterprise coffee company whose mission is to challenge the industry's status quo by focusing on the long-term sustainability of both the landscapes it operates in and the farmer partners it works with.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, The Breakfast Show invites Alex Clark, Founder, NoFilter, to discuss the economics of co-owning supply chains with and reinvesting 10% of roasted profits to small-scale farmers; whether 'sourcing responsibly' actually makes coffee taste better; optimising distribution networks to ensure his sustainability-driven mission isn't cancelled out by the carbon footprint of shipping containers and last-mile delivery; and how he successfully pitched a circular economy coffee brand to big corporates.

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Morning Shot: If AI Makes It Too Easy, Are Children Still Learning?

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 23:39:04 +0000

AI is quickly becoming part of how students do their homework, from generating ideas to writing full answers. But as these tools become more embedded in everyday learning, some parents are starting to question what’s really happening beneath the surface. If tasks feel easier and faster to complete, does that mean children are actually learning more?

On Morning Shot, we speak with Raghav Gupta, Head of Education for APAC at OpenAI, to unpack how students should be using AI and where the line is between support and over-reliance. We explore why effort and “productive struggle” still matter, what good versus poor use of AI looks like in practice, and how parents can guide their teens to use these tools in ways that build curiosity, confidence, and independent thinking.

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Breakfast Bites: Do you use feet and inches, or metres and centimetres?

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 05:24:32 +0000

Kilograms, seconds, centimetres.

These are just a few examples of standard units of measurement that we probably use in some way, shape or form on a daily basis.

They form part of what is formally known as the metric system, which was created in France in the 1790s to simplify and consolidate the myriad ways people used to measure things.

On Metric System Day, Emaad and Ryan dive into how the imperial system (which preceded the metric system) evolved, the interesting tale behind the formation of the International Prototype of the Kilogram (IPK), why older units of measurement like miles, feet and pints are still widely used, and historical mistakes caused by confusion between measurement systems.

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Ryan Huang

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Why China's Airlines Are Cautious About 2026

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 04:43:17 +0000

The ongoing crisis in the Middle East has thrown a spanner in the works to the global aviation industry's growth picture. And China is no exception.

Leithen Francis, Co-founder & Managing Director, Francis & Low, helps us understand how exposed Chinese airlines are compared to their international peers despite holding the strategic advantage of being able to fly over Russian airspace. He also discusses how much protection fuel hedging provides against fuel price hikes; the delicate balancing act of protecting margins without hampering demand; and why outbound international traffic still lags behind pre-COVID levels.

Produced & Presented by: Emaad Akhtar

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US Markets Wrap: Navigating Oil Shocks, Stagflation Fears, and Where to 'Buy the Dip'

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 04:30:17 +0000

The S&P 500 just logged its worst quarter since 2022, but is the sky really falling, or is this a prime buying opportunity? George Schultze, Founder and Managing Member at Schultze Asset Management unpacks the complex macroeconomic forces driving the latest market session. He shares his insights on the Federal Reserve's "worst-case scenario" of oil-driven stagflation and whether double-digit corporate earnings growth and a projected $700B in AI capital expenditures can keep the fundamentals intact.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image: Gino Crescoli from Pixabay

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Mind Your Business: How to build a scalable food business

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 01:01:03 +0000

Most desserts served in restaurants today are not made in-house. As labour shortages and rising costs reshape the F&B industry, many operators are turning to specialised manufacturers to deliver consistency, efficiency, and scale.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, The Breakfast Show invites Erik and Shamsa van Keulen, co-owners of Oishi, to share how their business supplies desserts to over 1,700 outlets across Singapore, the operational systems behind large-scale food production, the concept of “customisation at scale,” and what it takes to build a scalable business behind the scenes.

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Breakfast Special: Why Workplace Fit Can Make or Break Your New Job

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 00:56:40 +0000

Education systems reward individual performance – grades, rankings, achievements. But once graduates enter the workplace, success often depends on something less visible: how well they fit within a team, a manager’s expectations and the organisation’s culture.

In this episode of Breakfast Special, we unpack the idea of “fit” at work. What it really means, why it matters across teams and organisations, and how graduates can better navigate workplace expectations that aren’t always explicitly stated.

Sriram Iyer, Senior Adjunct Lecturer of the Dept of Management & Organisation, NUS Business School joins The Breakfast Show.

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Bigger Pic: The 'TACO' Trade - Trump’s Iran Ultimatum, Soaring Oil, & Market Whiplash

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 04:17:49 +0000

As President Trump’s expletive-laden ultimatum to Iran sends oil prices soaring, Trackrecord Asia CIO Phan Vee Leung breaks down the broader market implications. He explores whether this geopolitical spike is just another Wall Street 'TACO' trade—the theory that Trump Always Chickens Out after peak volatility. He also analyses the paradox of drifting gold prices amidst the escalation.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Are students really learning or just memorising?

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 00:58:29 +0000

Singapore’s education system is known for its rigour and results, but it has also raised questions about whether students are truly learning or simply preparing for exams. As tuition becomes increasingly common, some educators are rethinking how learning should take place.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, Wei Yi Lim, co-founder of Study Room, joins The Breakfast Show to share his journey from finance journalism to building an alternative education model, how he balances educational philosophy with business realities, and what it takes to create a meaningful learning experience in today’s system.

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Breakfast Special: How Good Are You at Digital Parenting?

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 00:14:54 +0000

With smartphones now largely kept out of schools and new safeguards like app store age checks and device curfews coming into play, the boundaries around children’s screen use are shifting. But beyond these measures, much of the responsibility still sits with parents navigating a growing ecosystem of filters, settings and controls.

Shem Yao, Head of TOUCH Cyber Wellness joins the Breakfast Show to unpack how parental controls actually work in practice and where their limits lie. More importantly, we explore what effective digital parenting looks like today, how parents can approach conversations with their children, and what really makes a difference beyond just switching settings on.

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Breakfast Bites: Screen Time Wars - Why being too strict might backfire

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 23:11:56 +0000

How much screen time is too much... and are we getting it wrong? Kids are now limited as much as possible with screen time, but do we adults practice what we preach?

The Breakfast Show unpacks why strict limits might actually make screens more addictive, what the famous M&M experiment reveals about behaviour, and how Singapore parents can help kids build healthier digital habits instead of just enforcing rules.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Blasting Back to Peace? The High Stakes of a Ceasefire

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 05:18:40 +0000

Stocks rallied while oil prices dipped below $102 as President Trump signaled a potential U.S. withdrawal from Iran within weeks, contingent on the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Lawrence Hatheway, Global Investment Strategist, Franklin Templeton Institute discusses whether current valuations have already priced in a resolution.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image: Pexels from Pixabay

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Bigger Pic: How AI is redefining property investing

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 01:21:53 +0000

Real estate is no longer just about homes, offices, or malls; it’s increasingly about data. As AI and cloud demand surge, we explore the rise of digital infrastructure like data centres and what it means for investors in Singapore.

Keith Ong of RealVantage breaks down the risks, returns, and why this could be the next frontier in property investing.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

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Mind Your Business: Why doing less can grow your business faster

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:53:19 +0000

Many founders focus on building products, raising funding, and chasing growth. But what if most startups fail because they’re solving the wrong problems from the start?

On Mind Your Business, Joshua Chan, co-founder of ErgoTune, shares the lessons behind his social content that’s been gaining traction online, what actually works when scaling a business and the common mistakes founders continue to make.

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Companies To Watch: McCormick’s $45 billion deal with Unilever raises big questions

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:23:02 +0000

McCormick is making one of the biggest bets in its history. After reporting solid earnings, the company announced a multi-billion dollar deal with Unilever’s food division, a move that could transform it into a global food giant. But with scale comes risk.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang find out if this a smart move for long-term growth, or a deal that’s simply too big to execute.

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Morning Shot: Why a Distant War Could Hit Your Mortgage in Singapore

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:22:40 +0000

Global conflicts don’t just reshape geopolitics – they can ripple through financial markets in ways that affect everyday costs at home. With oil prices rising and long-term interest rates already edging higher, the question now is how much of that pressure will show up in Singapore.

The segment breaks down how external shocks influence local rates, why Singapore Overnight Rate Average (SORA) could start moving again, and what MAS might do next. For homeowners and borrowers, what signals should matter most in the months ahead?

Arup Raha, Independent Economist based in Singapore joins the Breakfast Show

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Breakfast Bites: Unwrapping Singapore's growing love for the burrito

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:21:37 +0000

It’s International Burrito Day and MoneyFM 89.3 is giving them away at the CBD today! But before you grab your free lunch, we unwrap the surprising origins of burritos, how they went global, and why/how Singaporeans are doing them a little differently. Find out what your lunch says about spending habits and the cost of living!

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Bites: Do you recognise these April Fool's pranks?

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 10:50:34 +0000

It's that time of the year again!

Tune in to Breakfast Bites this April Fool's as Emaad, Ryan and Audrey share some famous historical pranks from around the world!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo credit: Unsplash & its talented community of contributors

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: The Middle East Conflict & The Inflation "Perfect Storm"

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 03:28:51 +0000

The global economy is currently navigating a "perfect storm" of supply shocks, from military conflict in the Middle East to the total shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz. With oil prices staying elevated, how much will its effects play out in the second quarter and beyond. Is the latest report of comments by Trump signaling the potential end of the war enough to win back confidence in the markets? UOB’s Head of Markets Strategy, Heng Koon How shares his outlook in this high-stakes environment.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Bullish Resilience - Navigating the Iran Peace Rally

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 03:12:47 +0000

Laila Pence, President & Co-Founder, Pence Wealth Management breaks down the explosive market surge as the Dow climbs over 1,100 points on reports of a potential de-escalation in the Iran conflict. She explains why current market corrections represent a rare buying opportunity, the surprising strength of corporate earnings despite the war, and how massive AI capital expenditures re poised to drive generational productivity.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Why he walked away from Gong Cha to build LiHO

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 00:57:35 +0000

Rodney Tang built one of Singapore’s most successful bubble tea businesses with Gong Cha, only to walk away and rebuild from scratch with LiHO Tea. It was a bold decision that reshaped his approach to business, leadership, and long-term control.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, The Breakfast Show invites Rodney to share the story behind that pivot, how he scaled LiHO into a leading brand, and why he now documents the realities of running an F&B business on TikTok.

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Companies To Watch: Stock showdown winner - Wonik Holdings, Schlumberger, Pacific Edge, SEA

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 00:57:14 +0000

The Breakfast Show crew each picked a stock at the start of the year. Now it’s time to face the results.

After three months, some picks are thriving, others are struggling, and a few didn’t go as planned. We break down the performance, the original thesis, and what we got right, or completely wrong, in this stock pick showdown.

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Morning Shot: Singapore’s 10-Cent Recycling Scheme - Will It Change Habits?

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 00:17:08 +0000

From April 1, Singapore’s Beverage Container Return Scheme kicks in with consumers paying a refundable 10-cent deposit on bottled and canned drinks. With more than 1,000 reverse vending machines rolling out across the island, the goal is clear: boost recycling rates and cut contamination.

But with a transition period, rejected bottles, and questions around convenience, how smoothly will this shift in behaviour play out? And what will it take for the system to actually work at scale?

Ang Qing, Correspondent at The Straits Times (covering environment & sustainability) joins the Breakfast Show.

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Breakfast Bites: What should you do if you're being gaslighted at work?

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 09:36:58 +0000

Have you ever been criticised, had your achievements diminished, or doubted yourself for no apparent reason in the workplace?

If your answer is a yes, this might be an indicated that you were being gaslighted.

On this edition of Breakfast Bites, Emaad and Ryan explore the origins of gaslighting, common signs employees should look out for, and when / how to escalate if needed.

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Ryan Huang

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Will Regional Flight Cuts Hurt Singapore?

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 08:23:04 +0000

As Middle East tensions continue to disrupt oil supplies, resulting in higher fuel prices, some airlines have responded with flight cuts. Brendan Sobie, Independent Analyst & Consultant, Sobie Aviation, discusses how Changi airport has performed from a passenger traffic perspective so far this year; the most prominent flight cuts and what they mean for Changi's operations in the weeks ahead; and whether budget airlines might be losing their price advantage.

Produced & Presented by: Emaad Akhtar

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US Markets Wrap: Tech’s Tumble, Micron’s AI Paradox, and the SpaceX Orbit

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 04:56:14 +0000

Volatility is back with a vengeance. Steve Sosnick, Chief Strategist at Interactive Brokers breaks down a turbulent Monday on Wall Street as the S&P 500 slipped for its third straight session, settling at 6,344 — now more than 9% off its recent closing highs. While the Dow managed a slight gain, the Nasdaq bore the brunt of the selling, sliding 0.7% as investors grappled with a "higher-for-longer" reality. Despite Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s attempts to soothe the market, surging oil prices and a steep 1% drop in the tech sector sent the VIX, Wall Street’s "fear gauge", piercing through the 30 level for the first time in a year.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang
Image: leo from pixabay

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Mind Your Business: What investors really look for in founders today

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:53:26 +0000

Singapore has invested heavily in research and innovation, particularly in deep tech and science-driven sectors. But a growing question is emerging: are strong ideas translating into real, scalable businesses?

The Breakfast Show invites Theodora Lai, Principal at Tembusu Partners & Director of the Singapore Valley Awards, to discuss her perspective on the gap between innovation and execution, what investors are actually looking for in founders, the common blind spots among technical entrepreneurs, and how exposure to faster-moving markets is shaping a new generation of execution-ready founders.

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Companies To Watch: The AI biotech company everyone is watching

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:52:25 +0000

Insilico Medicine has just signed a deal worth up to $2.75 billion with Eli Lilly, putting the spotlight firmly on AI-driven drug discovery.

In this episode of Companies to Watch, Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down what Insilico Medicine actually does, why its Hong Kong IPO drew massive investor demand, and what this latest partnership means for the future of healthcare.

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Morning Shot: The “Reliable Employee” Trap

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:32:07 +0000

Always the one people count on to get things done? That reliability might be your biggest strength but it could also be quietly shaping your career path.

From being stuck in operational roles to missing out on leadership opportunities, how do you avoid being typecast?

Archana Srinivasan, Founder & Director, Alchemy People Partners (a HR consultancy firm) joins The Breakfast Show.

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Bigger Pic: Beyond the Headlines of Energy Shocks and Tech Valuations

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 05:10:47 +0000

Oil markets are reeling this Monday as Brent crude surges past $115 a barrel. Following new missile strikes in the Middle East by Yemen's Houthi movement, the global energy supply faces a fresh wave of uncertainty that threatens to transform into a broader demand shock. Martin Hennecke, Head of Asia & Middle East Investment Advisory, St. James’s Place shares how investors can navigate this volatility without falling into the trap of over-leverage or short-term speculation. He also explores the shifting dynamics of global wealth as Dubai faces a critical test of its reputation as a geopolitical safe haven.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: How serial entrepreneurs think about business

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:57:58 +0000

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming how businesses operate, from automation and productivity tools to entirely new ways of scaling personal expertise. One emerging concept is the “digital twin”, an AI system designed to mirror a person’s thinking and communication style.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, The Breakfast Show speaks with Sabrina Wang, Founder of People’s Inc. 360 and Royal Visionary Society to discuss her journey building multiple ventures and creating Seraphina, an AI twin trained on her digital footprint, and the lessons she’s learned from building and scaling companies.

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Companies To Watch: Meta’s business model is being questioned like never before

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:57:48 +0000

Meta is facing one of its biggest challenges yet. After a landmark U.S. ruling found the company liable for designing addictive social media platforms, its stock has taken a hit, raising deeper concerns about legal risks, regulatory pressure, and the sustainability of its core business model.

In this episode of Companies to Watch, Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down what this ruling really means, why investors are reacting so strongly, and how it could reshape not just Meta, but the entire social media industry.

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Morning Shot: Why Work in Singapore Still Isn’t Built for Parents

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:47:09 +0000

Singapore has strengthened support for working parents in recent years, from expanded parental leave to formal requests for flexible work arrangements.

But on the ground, the burden of making things work continues to fall on families.So, what does this reveal about how workplaces are actually structured and whether policies are translating into real support?

Chong Sin Hui, Assistant Professor of Organisational Behaviour and Human Resources at Nanyang Business School, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack the gap between policy and practice, the tensions teams face when caregiving needs arise, and what it would take to build workplaces where parents don’t have to choose between being present at work and at home.

Image by Myriams-Fotos from Pixabay

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Breakfast Bites: Quit first, worry later? Unpacking the burnout debate

Sun, 29 Mar 2026 23:01:48 +0000

Would you ever quit your job without another one lined up?

With burnout on the rise but employers still wary of resume gaps, should we prioritise our mental health, or take it on the chin in this rough job market? We explore whether career breaks are a smart reset (or a risky move) and what it really takes to make one work in Singapore today.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Dan Koh

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Quiz: It's Theatre Trivia Time...Break A Leg!

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 10:45:35 +0000

It's World Theatre Day!

If you're a theatre history buff, enjoy discussing playwrights, reciting famous lines, or learning about stage terms, this quiz is for you!

Join the crew on stage for this performance...break a leg!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Why you can now eat quality Durian all year round

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 06:00:38 +0000

Durian is one of the most loved fruits in Southeast Asia, but it has always been limited by one key factor, seasonality. Outside of peak periods, quality drops and availability becomes unpredictable, creating a gap between demand and supply.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, Christopher Quek, founder of Spike Durian, joins The Breakfast Show to share how he turned that problem into a business and what it takes to transform a seasonal product into a scalable system.

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US Markets Wrap: Volatility Returns as Oil Climbs, Ceasefire Doubts Rise

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 02:23:26 +0000

Markets took a hit as oil prices surged and nerves crept back in. Tech stocks led the drop, pushing the Nasdaq into correction territory. There’s still a lot of uncertainty around a ceasefire and where inflation goes next. Mark Giambrone, Head of US Equities and Portfolio Manager, Barrow Hanley Global Investors shares how he’s navigating the swings.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang
Image: Pete Linforth from Pixabay

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Morning Shot: Health Insurance Claims - What Policyholders Often Miss

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:44:17 +0000

Health insurance is meant to provide peace of mind but when it comes to making a claim, the details matter. From Integrated Shield Plans to riders, coverage often hinges on definitions, exclusions, and how policies are structured in practice.

Chan Wai Kit, Executive Director, Life Insurance Association Singapore joins The Breakfast Show to unpack how health insurance claims work in Singapore, where common misunderstandings can arise, and what policyholders should pay closer attention to from hospitalisation coverage to fine print that may affect payouts.

We also explore how consumers can better review their plans, ask the right questions, and avoid surprises when it matters most.

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Bigger Pic: What to buy in Asian markets during the Iran oil shock and AI shakeout

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:30:00 +0000

Asian equities are facing renewed pressure as rising oil prices from the Iran conflict drive capital outflows and raise concerns over inflation and growth across the region. But beyond geopolitics, parts of the market, particularly software and internet stocks, have seen sharper declines amid fears of AI-driven disruption.

Dan Koh speaks with Lorraine Tan, Director of Equity Research Asia at Morningstar, to understand how investors should think about Asian markets today, from assessing key risks and regional resilience to understanding the recent selloff and where value opportunities may be emerging.

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Companies To Watch: Pop Mart’s annual revenue surged 185%, so why did the stock crash 20%?

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:24:09 +0000

Pop Mart just delivered record-breaking earnings, with revenue soaring and profits more than tripling, yet its stock plunged over 20%. What’s driving this sharp disconnect?

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down why investors are growing concerned over Pop Mart’s heavy reliance on its viral character Labubu, and whether the company can sustain its momentum beyond a single hit.

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Bigger Pic: Why Greater Air Connectivity Means More MNC Investment

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 13:21:47 +0000

Siqi Zheng, Principal Investigator, Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research & Technology (SMART) & MIT Professor discusses a recent study by SMART identifying a strong statistical association between global air connectivity and patterns of where multinational corporations (MNCs) invest and set up subsidiaries.

She shares why being connected to the right cities matters more than just have more routes; how even a single layover can reduce investment; and the reason finance and tech are especially sensitive to connectivity.

Produced & Presented by: Emaad Akhtar

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Mind Your Business: What It Really Takes to Profit Off the Padel/Pickleball Craze

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 06:17:03 +0000

The rising popularity of padel and pickleball in Singapore has sparked a wave of new operators racing to meet demand. One of them is The Sports Arina, the country’s first and largest air-conditioned pickleball and padel facility.

But running a venue like this is anything but simple. From court maintenance and specialised flooring to soundproofing, pricing strategies, and creating new revenue streams, there’s a lot happening behind the scenes to stay competitive and profitable, especially once the hype begins to settle.

On this episode of Mind Your Business, we’re joined by Kelly Latimer, Partner, The Sports Arina, who made the leap from media host and sports personality to business owner, to share what it really takes to turn this sporting craze into a sustainable business.

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US Markets Wrap: Ceasefire Hopes Lift Markets but Reality Lurks

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 05:33:37 +0000

US stocks climbed as hopes of a U.S.–Iran ceasefire cooled oil and lifted sentiment, but the situation on the ground remains far from resolved. With troop deployments reportedly in the pipeline and tensions around the Strait of Hormuz unresolved, markets may be underpricing geopolitical risk.
Dilin Wu, Research Strategist, Pepperstone unpack what this means for crude, gold, and the dollar as traders navigate a market driven by headlines and uncertainty.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Companies To Watch: Arm is making its own chips and changing the AI race

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 01:56:27 +0000

Arm has announced it will develop and sell its own AI chips, marking a historic shift from its traditional licensing model. The move could unlock billions in revenue but also puts Arm in direct competition with its biggest customers.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down what this means for the AI chip race and investors.

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Breakfast Bites: Budgeting apps - There's a reason why many try, and quit!

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 23:18:22 +0000

We see it more and more now within our bank apps: Budgeting tools and programs that promise control, clarity, and better financial habits. But for many, Audrey included, they end up creating stress instead and drives us to quit after a couple months!

Let's unpack why so many people start tracking their spending… only to give up, and whether a lighter, more flexible approach to budgeting might actually work better!

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Bites: Can being too versatile at work affect your career growth?

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 09:15:53 +0000

Versatility and reliability. There is no doubt that these are positive traits to have as an employee, especially in a tough job market.

But is there a risk that being too "dependable" can affect career growth?

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey share why experts stress on the importance of recognising your own value and framing your contributions strategically.

Have a listen!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Market Pullback and Ceasefire Hopes

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 02:18:53 +0000

With the Iran war now stretching into its fourth week, President Trump has indicated that the US is in active negotiations and the other side wants to make a deal. Kyle Rodda, Senior Financial Market Analyst at Capital.com discusses whether a ceasefire is truly realistic, and also dives into the continued energy disruptions, climbing costs, and the surprising reasons behind a weaker gold market.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Bigger Pic: The Real Cost of Asia's New Energy Supply Shock

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 02:14:11 +0000

The Middle East conflict is no longer just driving up prices at the pump. We are now seeing actual physical shortages across Asia. With headlines reporting grounded flights, new work from home mandates, and shorter school weeks, the energy crunch has officially arrived. Uday Vikram, Co-CIO at Klay discusses why Asia's fast growing economies are especially vulnerable, and how markets are pricing in the latest developments.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Companies To Watch: Estée Lauder in talks with Puig as beauty industry consolidates

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:38:41 +0000

Estée Lauder is reportedly in talks with Spanish beauty group Puig over a potential merger that could create a $40 billion cosmetics giant.

Dan Koh and Audrey Siek break down what’s driving the deal, why the fragrance market matters, and what investors should watch next.

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Morning Shot: If AI Is Creating Jobs, Why Is Hiring Getting Harder?

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:23:14 +0000

Singapore’s job market is being reshaped by AI, with newly created roles now making up almost half of all vacancies in 2025. From software developers to data scientists, demand for tech and engineering talent is surging and employers are increasingly hiring based on skills, not degrees.

At the same time, retrenchments among PMET workers are rising, entry-level roles have dipped and some of the most in-demand jobs are also the hardest to fill.

So what’s really happening beneath the surface of Singapore’s hiring landscape? And how should workers, employers and fresh graduates make sense of a market where opportunities are growing but matching them is getting more complex?

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US Markets Wrap: Pulling Back From The Brink

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 02:04:09 +0000

Stocks surged Monday as news of potential U.S. and Iran talks offered a lifeline to a market teetering on the edge of a correction. Ryan Detrick, Chief Market Strategist, Carson Group discusses whether this massive relief rally signals a genuine recovery or a temporary head fake.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Bigger Pic: Where property investors are looking amid Middle East tensions

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 01:00:00 +0000

When geopolitical tensions rise, investors don’t just react in markets, they rethink where to park their money. Louise Kavanagh, Chief Investment Officer and Head of Asia Pacific, Real Estate, Nuveen, explores how the Middle East conflict is reshaping real estate investment strategies, with a growing shift toward income, stability, and resilience. Where are the opportunities now, and how should investors position themselves?

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

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Mind Your Business: The business behind Singapore’s famous Lobster Porridge

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:48:48 +0000

Running a restaurant in Singapore is one of the toughest businesses, with rising costs, manpower challenges, and constantly evolving customer expectations. Yet some brands continue to stand the test of time, building loyal followings through consistency, identity, and strong operations.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, Clarice Png, Founder, Orchid Live Seafood joins the Breakfast Show to share her journey transitioning from finance into the F&B industry and helping to run a multi-decade family business.

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Companies To Watch: Grab expands aggressively but raises governance concerns

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:21:46 +0000

Grab is making bold moves, from a $600 million acquisition of Foodpanda Taiwan to controversial changes in voting rights that could strengthen founder control.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down the growth story, governance risks, and what it all means for investors.

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Morning Shot: Doing More for the Same Pay - What Are Your Options?

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:15:55 +0000

Taking on more at work, but not seeing it reflected in your pay? It’s a situation many employees face as roles evolve and job scopes expand. But is it a signal to push for a raise, renegotiate your role, or rethink how you position your value?

Sam Neo, Founder, Stories of Asia (a storytelling and mentorship platform) joins the Breakfast Show to unpack how to navigate these conversations, from reframing your contributions in terms of impact, to negotiating non-monetary benefits and building long-term career value in a changing workplace.

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Breakfast Bites: Financial ghosting - Does the "set and forget" trick still work?

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

We’ve all heard of ghosting… but what about ghosting your finances? This episode breaks down the growing trend of “financial ghosting”: where you save and invest, then completely tune out. Is it smart long-term discipline, or a risky blind spot? We explore why staying lightly engaged with your money might be the real sweet spot.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Bites: Did you know that bears love to eat honey?

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 10:11:19 +0000

It's World Bear Day!

On Breakfast Bites, Emaad, Ryan and Audrey share some fun facts about our big, furry mammal friends; including what they like to eat, hibernation habits and their incredible sense of smell!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Picture: Brent, Risk and the Week Ahead

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 06:49:19 +0000

A volatile stretch for markets could be about to get even more consequential. As tensions around Iran and the Strait of Hormuz escalate, investors are staring down a potential binary event with major implications for oil, inflation and risk assets. Vasu Menon, Managing Director, Investment Strategy, OCBC Bank discusses how to hedge uncertainty, where Brent starts to hurt demand, and whether gold’s selloff has created an opening.

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Companies To Watch: BTS is back and HYBE is ready to cash in

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:57:05 +0000

HYBE is back in focus as BTS reunites after nearly four years, releasing a new album and announcing a massive global tour.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down what this comeback means for HYBE’s revenue, why investors are watching closely, and whether this could mark the company’s next growth cycle.

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Mind Your Business: Why Singapore remains a magnet for global entrepreneurs

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:56:40 +0000

Entrepreneurship is increasingly global. Founders today are thinking not just about markets and products, but also about where to live, where to base their companies, and how to structure their operations internationally.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, The Breakfast Show invites Andrew Henderson, founder of Nomad Capitalist, to discuss the rise of global mobility strategies among entrepreneurs and the mindset behind building businesses that operate across borders.

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Morning Shot: Asia’s Water Stress — A Growing Threat to Food Security

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:46:35 +0000

As the world marks World Water Day 2026, attention is turning to how water is quietly shaping agriculture across Asia. Farming already accounts for about 70 percent of global freshwater use, even as climate change makes rainfall more unpredictable.

For Singapore, which imports over 90 percent of its food, this raises an important question: how are farmers adapting, and what does this mean for the resilience of our food supply? Duke Hipp, Public Affairs Director, CropLife Asia speaks with the Breakfast Show about the challenges on the ground and the role of innovation in using water more efficiently.

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Work Smart: The Motivation Trick You’re Overlooking

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Big goals are inspiring but they can also feel overwhelming.

Research on motivation shows that visible progress, even in small steps, is one of the strongest drivers of engagement and sustained effort.

This episode explains why celebrating small wins can fuel momentum far more effectively than pressure or deadlines alone.

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Breakfast Bites: 4 at-home tests that reveal how well you’re aging

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 04:56:50 +0000

Age is just a number! Or so the saying goes.

While that may be true, aging is still a phenomenon that has real-world implications for our physical health and vitality.

So how do we know if we're aging well?

Experts have identified four, simple at-home tests that may give you an indication of how you're faring.

Give them a go!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Markets on edge as oil spikes and the Fed drama deepens

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 03:26:25 +0000

Wall Street trims steep losses as investors track fresh developments in the Iran conflict and volatile oil prices. Alex Morris, CEO, F/m Investments discusses how close crude is to a tipping point that could start hurting the broader U.S. economy and portfolios. In Washington, tensions swirl around the Fed as rising inflation collides with political gridlock on rates Plus, the overlooked side of the AI boom and why infrastructure could be the real trade ahead.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image: Gino Crescoli from Pixabay

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Bigger Pic: How smart money is positioning between the Iran oil shock and the AI boom

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 01:13:25 +0000

Oil prices are surging, inflation risks are back in focus, and markets are rotating fast. But where is the smart money actually going?

Dan Koh speaks to Billy Toh, Regional Head of Retail Research, CGS International Securities on how experts position portfolios, from energy and defense plays to AI leaders like NVIDIA and Microsoft, and what investors should watch next.

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Companies To Watch: Is Lululemon losing its shine as growth slows?

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 01:02:34 +0000

Lululemon beat expectations in its latest earnings, but weaker 2026 guidance, slowing US demand, and a growing boardroom battle sent shares lower.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down the numbers, the strategic shift toward full-price selling, and what investors should watch next.

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Morning Shot: Singapore’s Tourism Boom - Who Is the New Visitor Economy Built For?

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 00:59:48 +0000

Singapore’s tourism strategy has increasingly focused on quality over quantity attracting visitors who stay longer and spend more. The results are showing: tourism receipts are on track to break records, with projections reaching as high as $32.5 billion in 2026.

Venues, restaurants and entertainment spaces are investing heavily to attract younger travellers and business visitors, particularly those tied to Singapore’s fast-growing MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions) organisers and attendees industry.

What impact will intensifying global tensions have on tourism here? And as the visitor economy evolves, what does this strategy mean for businesses, the tourism sector and for locals navigating a city increasingly designed to appeal to high-spending travellers?

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Mind Your Business: Who governs AI in the doctor’s office

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 00:59:45 +0000

With Singapore accelerating AI adoption under its 2026 agenda, healthcare is becoming a critical test case for responsible innovation. But as AI tools enter clinical workflows, how do we safeguard integrity?

Dr. Tom Kelly, CEO and Co-Founder at Heidi joins The Breakfast Show to unpack what “trusted AI” should look like in clinical practice and why medical-grade guardrails may be essential.

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Breakfast Quiz: The K-Pop powerhouse is back! How well do you know BTS?

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 00:29:47 +0000

From record-breaking hits, international success to global influence beyond music, how well do you really know BTS? We put your knowledge to the test with a fun Friday quiz on the world’s biggest K-pop phenomenon, and why their impact goes far beyond the charts!

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: BHP names new CEO as mining enters a new era

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 04:19:54 +0000

BHP has appointed Brandon Craig as its new CEO, marking a major leadership transition at the world’s largest mining company.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down what the change means, the company’s strategic focus on copper and potash, and how global demand for critical minerals is shaping its next phase of growth.

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US Markets Wrap: Markets stumble as inflation fears return and the Fed holds its nerve

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 02:05:44 +0000

Wall Street tumbles as fresh data and signals from Jerome Powell reinforce fears that inflation will stay higher for longer. The Dow Jones Industrial Average breaks key levels, deepening concerns about a broader market reset. With the Federal Reserve still eyeing just one rate cut, doubts are growing over whether policy is already behind the curve. Ben Emons, Chief Investment Officer, FedWatch Advisors unpacks rising stagflation risks, the impact of surging oil, and what investors should do as volatility picks up.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image: USD Dollar 3D Animation Production Company from Pixabay

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Mind Your Business: From engineering student to fragrance founder

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:50:49 +0000

Most engineering students build prototypes. Ashley Mun built a fragrance brand. What started as a fascination with scent evolved into Ashley Mun Candles, a Singapore-based label producing hand-poured candles, car diffusers, and premium scent experiences.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, The Breakfast Show explores how he transitioned from student to founder, developed his products from scratch, sourced materials aligned with his sustainability philosophy, and secured partnerships with major automotive brands.

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Bigger Pic: A shift in retail property - From transactions to experiences

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:50:00 +0000

Shopping malls in Singapore are no longer just about convenience: they’re being reimagined as spaces for community, experience, and everyday living.

Adrian Tan, Managing Director of Retail at Frasers Property Singapore, shares how retail spaces are evolving, what today’s consumers really want, and the key trends shaping the future of Singapore’s retail property landscape.

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Morning Shot: 11 BTO Tries - What Went Wrong, and What Can Be Done?

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 00:17:07 +0000

A viral TikTok video questioning why hundreds of flats from a Bukit Merah BTO project later appeared in the Sale of Balance Flats exercise has reignited debate about fairness and transparency in Singapore’s public housing system. The Housing Board has clarified that such units are typically unsold, unselected, or returned flats that are only offered after all eligible BTO applicants have had their chance to book a unit.

But the episode also reflects a broader frustration many homebuyers feel — repeatedly balloting for flats in popular locations and still coming up empty-handed. Nicholas Mak, Chief Research Officer, Mogul.sg joins the Breakfast Show to unpack how balance flats arise, why supply can appear suddenly in later exercises and what this reveals about demand patterns in Singapore’s housing market.

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US Markets Wrap: Crude Awakening How Oil and the Fed Are Driving the Markets

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 01:59:36 +0000

Steve Sosnick, Chief Strategist, Interactive Brokers breaks down a wild trading session and looks past the headlines to understand what is truly moving Wall Street. Stocks recently tried to bounce back after a dip in crude prices, but the shadow of global geopolitics and energy infrastructure attacks continues to loom large over the markets.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Building a Singapore fashion label with Andrea Chong

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 00:58:38 +0000

Many influencers launch brands. Few build businesses that last. The Breakfast Show invites Andrea Chong, Co-Founder & Creative Director of Good Addition as they discuss her journey from influencer to co-founder of Good Addition, and what it really takes to turn personal brand equity into operational infrastructure.

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Companies To Watch: Nvidia GTC 2026 shows the next phase of the AI boom

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 00:57:34 +0000

Nvidia’s GTC 2026 conference delivered major announcements around AI chips, inference computing, and the company’s long-term roadmap. CEO Jensen Huang raised the company’s AI market opportunity to $1 trillion and unveiled new chips, software platforms, and AI agent technologies.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down the biggest takeaways and what they mean for Nvidia’s growth story.

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Morning Shot: Iran War - Has the Gulf Lost Its Safe-Haven Image?

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 00:38:14 +0000

For years, Gulf states such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar have positioned themselves as stable economic hubs in an otherwise volatile region, attracting global capital, businesses and talent. But the latest escalation involving Iran, the United States and Israel has brought missile strikes, disrupted air travel and attacks near key infrastructure, raising questions about whether that carefully built image of stability can hold.

So how significant is this shift, and what does it mean for the Gulf’s long-term economic ambitions and regional diplomacy?

Carl Skadian, Deputy Director, Middle-East Institute, NUS joins the Breakfast Show.

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Breakfast Bites: Binge watching - harmless habit or hidden addiction?

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 23:12:38 +0000

From Squid Game marathons to weekend late-night movie binges, how much is too much screen time? During Oscar season, The Breakfast Show unpacks why binge-watching can feel addictive, its surprising impact on your health, and simple ways to cut back without giving up your favourite shows!

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bigger Pic: Is the Iran War Reshaping Aircraft Leasing?

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 08:31:05 +0000

Shukor Yusof, Founder & Analyst, Endau Analytics, discusses how the Iran War is affecting the aircraft leasing space; whether lessors are exposed to big players like Emirates, Etihad and Qatar; the impact to certain aircraft models; and whether insurers are becoming more selective about coverage areas to hedge against geopolitical risk.

Produced & Presented by: Emaad Akhtar

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Breakfast Bites: What's a "good" pay raise in the same company?

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 08:14:44 +0000

What's considered a "good" salary increment within the same company?

For starters, experts say the value shouldn't be assessed by percentage alone, but include other variables such as promotions, core competencies and responsibilities.

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey break it down on Breakfast Bites!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Companies To Watch: Exxon Mobil rallies as Middle East tensions send oil prices higher

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 01:02:50 +0000

Exxon Mobil has been gaining as geopolitical tensions involving Iran and the broader Middle East push oil prices higher.

Dan Koh and Audrey Siek break down what’s driving the rally, the company’s latest strategic moves, and what investors should watch next.

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Morning Shot: Why Preventable Cancer Risks Still Persist in Singapore

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 00:09:31 +0000

Singapore has long invested in cancer prevention, from strong tobacco control to national vaccination programmes against hepatitis B and HPV. But oncologists say lifestyle-related risks remain a major driver of cancer cases, even as policies continue to evolve.

Globally, research suggests nearly four in 10 cancer cases may be linked to preventable causes such as smoking, diet and environmental exposures. So what explains the persistent risks in a high-income, ageing society like Singapore?

Dr. Gloria Chan, Consultant, Department of Haematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS) joins the Breakfast Show.

Image by Nabil Maaizi from Pixabay

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Bigger Pic: Crude Shocks and Central Bank Cracks

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 03:15:52 +0000

As the conflict surrounding Iran moves from rhetoric to a direct strike on Kharg Island, global energy markets are on a knife-edge. Oriano Lizza, Sales Trader at CMC Markets Singapore discusses whether the IEA’s record 400-million-barrel reserve release is enough to stop an oil spiral, how Chair Powell will navigate a fresh inflationary shock during this week’s FOMC meeting, and why China’s recent NPC "growth floor" is failing to spark a rotation back into mainland equities.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Morning Shot: Is HR Singapore’s Next Competitive Advantage?

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 01:29:17 +0000

In a world shaped by AI disruption, economic uncertainty and rapid workplace transformation, companies are being forced to rethink how they manage talent. Increasingly, the HR function is being seen not just as administrative support, but as a strategic driver of change.

Singapore’s tripartite partners are now encouraging stronger HR standards and wider adoption of professional certification. But will professionalising HR really make organisations more agile?

Benjamin Boh, SNEF Council member, and Co-Chair of the Tripartite Workgroup on Human Capital Capability Development joins the Breakfast Show to unpack why stronger HR capabilities may matter for business resilience.

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Breakfast Bites: Is owning a car in Singapore a necessity or a luxury?

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 01:25:47 +0000

Annually, Singapore tops yet another global list for being the most expensive place in the world to own a car.

With COEs hitting new highs, a typical family car easily costs up to S$250,000 to maintain. We ask the big question: is a car here a luxury… or something families actually need? We break down the numbers, compare global habits, and debate whether policies should make it easier for families to own their first car.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: AI On Your Own Terms - Balancing Ownership and Cost

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 01:24:09 +0000

With Singapore reinforcing its AI ambitions in Budget 2026, questions around data control and digital independence are intensifying.

Anoop Sagoo, CEO of Accenture SEA joins The Breakfast Show to unpack sovereign AI, hybrid cloud models and what enterprises must do to remain competitive and resilient.

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Work Smart: Why Multitasking Is Slowing You Down

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Multitasking feels productive, but studies show the brain actually switches rapidly between tasks instead of doing them at the same time. This constant task-switching increases errors and slows overall performance.

This episode explains why focusing on one thing at a time is often the fastest way to get more done.

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Budget 2026 Roundtable: What’s the Most Underrated Policy This Year?

Sat, 14 Mar 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Budget 2026 includes measures aimed at helping Singapore companies venture overseas, as policymakers encourage businesses to look beyond the domestic market for their next phase of growth. But in an uncertain global environment, how much appetite is there for regional expansion and are firms truly ready to take that step?

Ryan Huang moderates a panel with Shawn Huang, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Finance & Manpower, Lee Sze Yeng, Managing Partner, KPMG in Singapore, Ang Yuit, President at ASME, and Max Loh, Vice-Chair, Singapore Institute of Directors.

Watch the full discussion on MONEY FM 89.3's YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/_ZIxGRaoCY8

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Budget 2026 Roundtable: Can Singapore Raise Wages Without Losing Competitiveness?

Sat, 14 Mar 2026 00:30:00 +0000

Budget 2026 continues Singapore’s push to uplift wages and strengthen the local workforce, including raising the Local Qualifying Salary from S$1,600 to S$1,800 and tightening salary thresholds for Employment Pass and S Pass holders. The move reflects a broader effort to upgrade jobs and lift incomes while keeping Singapore competitive as a global business hub.

But as hiring costs rise, businesses are weighing the implications. Are SMEs feeling the squeeze as wage floors move up?

Watch the full discussion on MONEY FM 89.3's YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/_ZIxGRaoCY8

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Budget 2026 Roundtable: Is Singapore Ready for the AI Economy?

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Artificial intelligence sits at the heart of Budget 2026, with new AI missions aimed at accelerating adoption across Singapore’s economy the establishment of a new National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Council chaired by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong to drive the nation’s AI agenda.

But translating ambition into real change raises practical questions. How can policymakers ensure AI adoption does not end up concentrated among large corporations? And as companies integrate AI into core operations, are business leaders and boards prepared to manage the risks, governance challenges and cybersecurity implications that come with it?

In this special MONEY FM 89.3 SG Budget Conversations panel, Ryan Huang speaks with Shawn Huang, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Finance & Manpower, Lee Sze Yeng, Managing Partner, KPMG in Singapore, Ang Yuit, President at ASME, and Max Loh, Vice-Chair, Singapore Institute of Directors.

Watch the full discussion on MONEY FM 89.3's YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/_ZIxGRaoCY8

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US Markets Wrap: Options Markets Signal Rising Iran Risk

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 03:47:25 +0000

Chris Weston, Head of Research, Pepperstone, shares his thoughts on whether the market has shifted its timeline for the duration of the Iran war; the implications of equity markets rotating into defensive plays; the sectors most vulnerable to margin pressures should oil prices remain elevated; and why gold hasn't rallied despite the geopolitical risks.

Produced & Presented by: Emaad Akhtar

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Breakfast Special: “Welcome Home”: A Singaporean Couple’s Journey on an RSAF Evacuation Flight

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:59:27 +0000

As tensions escalated across the Gulf region, some Singaporeans living there suddenly found themselves facing missile alerts, airspace closures and uncertain routes home. With commercial flights disrupted, the Singapore Government activated evacuation efforts, including a Republic of Singapore Air Force aircraft flown into Riyadh to bring Singaporeans safely back.

Among the passengers were Nisar Keshvani, Assistant Dean, Communications and Public Affairs, Northwestern University in Qatar and his wife, Malathi Keshvani, Mental Wellness Coach, Soul Elevate, who had been living in Doha when the conflict intensified. They join The Breakfast Show to share what those tense days were like — from sheltering during missile alerts and weighing their options to leave, to the moment they stepped onto the RSAF evacuation flight in Riyadh and heard the words: “Welcome home.”

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Breakfast Bites: World Sleep Day - 5 myths that might be keeping you awake

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:05:52 +0000

Think you’ve “trained” your body to survive on five hours of sleep? Or that you can catch up on lost rest over the weekend? This World Sleep Day, Audrey and Emaad bust some of the most common sleep myths — from sleeping with the TV on to lying awake in bed. With Singaporeans among the most sleep-deprived in the world, we look at what the science actually says!

Presented by Audrey Siek & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Morning Shot: As Condos Age, Who Pays for the Repairs?

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:04:16 +0000

More than 1,000 private residential developments in Singapore are now over 30 years old, raising urgent questions about how ageing condominiums should fund major repairs and upgrades. The Government is reviewing the Building (Strata Management) Act, with proposals that include lowering approval thresholds for essential works, requiring training for management council members, and potentially co-funding lift upgrades.

While many residents and managing agents welcome the changes, concerns remain about implementation, funding gaps and whether subsidies could unintentionally delay necessary maintenance.

Joyce Lim, Senior Correspondent at The Straits Times covering property news, joins The Breakfast Show to unpack why ageing condos are becoming a growing issue in Singapore, the tensions between owner-occupiers and investors, and what the proposed reforms could mean for residents and estate management.

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Bigger Pic: Why Cruise Lines Are Betting on Singapore

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 14:29:40 +0000

On the Bigger Picture, Sarah Stanley, Travel Journalist, The Straits Times talks about her experience on the Disney Adventure cruise in Singapore (the company's first foray into the Southeast Asian market), whether it enhances the Little Red Dot's push to become a premier cruise destination, and challenges the industry may face in attempting to achieve this objective

Produced & Presented by: Emaad Akhtar

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Breakfast Quiz: How good is your general knowledge of the Middle East?

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 06:26:35 +0000

It isn't a surprise that all eyes have been glued to the continuous flow of headlines emanating from the Middle East of late.

But how good is your general knowledge of the region?

Emaad tests Ryan on populations, capital cities, intergovernmental organizations and more!

Play along!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Ryan Huang

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Budget 2026 Roundtable: A month in, what’s actually changing?

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 03:20:12 +0000

It has been about a month since Budget 2026 was delivered and the Committee of Supply debates have wrapped up. But beyond the headline measures, what are the early signals emerging for businesses, workers and the broader economy?

Ryan Huang moderates a panel with Shawn Huang, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Finance & Manpower, Lee Sze Yeng, Managing Partner, KPMG in Singapore, Ang Yuit, President at ASME, and Max Loh, Vice-Chair, Singapore Institute of Directors.

From workforce upskilling and AI readiness to SME support and procurement opportunities, the conversation looks at what businesses and workers should be watching in the months ahead.

Watch the full discussion on MONEY FM 89.3's YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/_ZIxGRaoCY8

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US Markets Wrap: Oil Surges Even as the IEA Opens the Tap

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 01:23:41 +0000

Oil prices surged even after the International Energy Agency announced its largest-ever release of strategic reserves. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell as investors weighed the economic fallout from the disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz. Michele Schneider, Chief Strategist, MarketGauge Group discusses how transport stocks could signal deeper economic stress. She also explores whether with inflation cooling but energy rising, could the Federal Reserve face a new policy dilemma?

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image: tetracarbon from Pixabay

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Morning Shot: Are Tuition Centres Overselling Success?

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 00:34:53 +0000

Tuition is now a $1.8 billion industry in Singapore fuelled by parental anxiety and an increasingly competitive education landscape. But when centres advertise “90% distinctions” or “ex-MOE teachers”, how much context are parents actually getting?

The Ministry of Education is working with the advertising industry to develop a code of conduct aimed at curbing questionable marketing practices in the sector. Could a standardised disclosure panel raise transparency without over-regulating the market?

Associate Professor Kelvin Law, Nanyang Business School, Division of Accounting at Nanyang Technological University joins the Breakfast Show to unpack why selective disclosure can be misleading even when technically true, and what higher advertising standards could mean for the broader education system.

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Breakfast Bites: "Sleep divorce" - why are some couples opting to sleep separately?

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 13:22:47 +0000

The practice of married couples sleeping in separate rooms isn’t new, but it’s being discussed more frequently today.

Some couples in Singapore are also experimenting with what’s known as a “sleep divorce” — choosing to sleep apart to improve sleep quality and, in turn, reduce potential tensions that can arise between partners.

A 2025 survey found that 49 percent of Singaporean respondents have tried sleeping separately from their partners, and 64 percent of them reported improved sleep quality.

Listen in to find out more!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Ryan Huang

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

Photo credit: Unsplash & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Geopolitics shakes markets but investors hold steady

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 05:30:36 +0000

Oil prices have pulled back after an earlier surge driven by fears the Iran conflict could disrupt shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. Crude briefly approached $120 a barrel before retreating as traders bet governments could release emergency reserves to offset potential supply shocks. Confusion over a social media post suggesting a tanker had been escorted through the strait, later contradicted by the White House, added to the volatility. Reports that Iran could be preparing to deploy mines in the vital shipping lane have kept markets on edge even as stocks staged a rebound. Josh Gilbert, Market Analyst, eToro explore the return of the geopolitical risk premium and what it means for investors.

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Bigger Pic: China’s Growth Target Meets Rising Geopolitical Risk

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 05:20:49 +0000

China has set a 4.5 to 5 percent growth target at this year’s National People’s Congress, signaling a more pragmatic approach as the world’s second largest economy grapples with weak demand, property stress and deflationary pressures. At the same time, escalating tensions around Iran are raising questions about energy security, trade routes and the broader balance of power between China and the United States. Alicia García-Herrero, Chief Economist for Asia Pacific at Natixis CIB, shares what the latest policy signals from Beijing mean for growth, markets and China’s role in an increasingly uncertain global economy.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Can a 40 year old snack still win over Gen Z?

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 01:05:37 +0000

How does a pineapple tart brand stay relevant beyond Chinese New Year?

Adrian and Gordon Ang of Kele join the Breakfast Show to share how they transformed a family confectionery into a recognised Singapore Heritage Brand through rebranding, premium positioning, e-commerce strategy and cross-generational collaborations.

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Breakfast Bites: Is it smart to take on high-visibility tasks during appraisal season?

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 11:04:54 +0000

It's appraisal time. Your performance for the year is about to be scrutinised.

You might be thinking: should I take on more high-visibility tasks to give myself a higher chance of being promoted?

That's the question we explore on today's Breakfast Bites.

Emaad and Ryan share the experts' views on why employees choose this path as well as some drawbacks of doing so, including the risk of a widening gap between perceived and demonstrated performance.

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Ryan Huang

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Markets Whipsaw on Iran Headlines

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 04:21:38 +0000

US markets staged a dramatic turnaround after early losses of nearly 900 points in the Dow, closing higher as signals emerged that tensions with Iran may be easing. Matt Maley, Chief Market Strategist, Miller Tabak breaks down what drove the reversal, whether oil markets overreacted to worst-case scenarios, and how investors should interpret geopolitical headline risk.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image by Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay

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Mind Your Business: How SMEs can cut costs and carbon at the same time

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 00:59:09 +0000

Diesel generators still power events, construction sites and mobile operations across Singapore, but carbon pricing is starting to change the cost model.

Colin Peh, Founder of GoRental SG joins The Breakfast Show to explain what businesses get wrong about clean energy adoption, why storage matters as Singapore targets 3 GWp of solar by 2030, and how SMEs can think practically about grants and green financing.

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Morning Shot: Deliveroo’s Exit - The End of Cheap Convenience?

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 00:57:50 +0000

Deliveroo’s decision to exit Singapore has sparked concerns about higher delivery fees, fewer choices for consumers, and weaker bargaining power for riders and F&B operators. But is this really about one company leaving or is it a broader reset of Singapore’s convenience economy?

Sumit Agarwal, Low Tuck Kwong Distinguished Professor of Finance, Economics and Real Estate at the National University of Singapore Business School, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack whether Singapore’s food delivery market is simply moving toward its natural state and what that means for consumers, workers and businesses in Singapore.

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Bigger Pic: Protracted Middle East tensions likely to squeeze business profit margins

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 11:18:23 +0000

Pan Jingyi, Economics Associate Director, S&P Global Market Intelligence discusses whether Singapore's latest factory activity numbers suggest continued optimism, the implications of a sharp rise in global manufacturing input prices; what a protracted conflict in the Middle East means for the wider business sentiment / growth outlook; and key takeaways from China's Two Sessions.

Produced & Presented by Emaad Akhtar

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Work Smart: The Right Way to Ask for Help at Work

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 01:00:00 +0000

Many professionals hesitate to ask for help at work because they worry it might make them look incapable. But research in workplace psychology suggests the opposite: high performers tend to seek clarification and input earlier, helping them avoid costly mistakes and move projects forward more effectively.

This episode explores why asking for help is often misinterpreted as weakness, and how framing your question the right way can signal initiative, preparation, and ownership.

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Breakfast Bites: Incentivising your kids - are money rewards bribery?

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 23:24:43 +0000

Would you pay your child for scoring an A? Or give them cash for doing chores? We dive into the parenting debate around incentivising kids — from paying for grades to rewarding good behaviour. With Singapore parents already spending billions on tuition, does adding financial rewards motivate kids… or make learning transactional?

We break down the poll results and explore where the sweet spot might be between encouragement and bribery.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: From Building Maintenance to Space Tech

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 02:48:13 +0000

Investors are often searching for the next hidden opportunity in the market, sometimes these can be in smaller companies where new catalysts can unlock growth. Jarick Seet, Head of Small-Mid Caps, Maybank Securities Singapore shares a closer look at two Singapore names with very different stories but potentially strong momentum. One is a familiar engineering contractor exploring technology and new revenue streams to boost margins. The other is a niche satellite communications player tapping into rising global demand for connectivity and drone applications.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Markets Slide as Oil and Geopolitics Return to the Forefront

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 02:40:08 +0000

US stocks turned lower as a sharp rally in oil renewed worries about inflation and growth. The Dow led the losses while investors rotated out of cyclical industrial names. Mel Siew, portfolio manager (Asia public credit), Muzinich & Co discusses what he's looking out for in the upcoming February US jobs report for signs that hiring trends are shifting. At the same time China’s lower growth outlook highlights a changing global economic backdrop.

Image: Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

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Mind Your Business: How Abel Richard went from managing power plants to selling 6 figure handbags

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 00:52:10 +0000

How does a former power-plant project manager and biotech entrepreneur end up building a six-figure luxury handbag house?

In this episode of Mind Your Business, Abel Richard Bullock, Founder & Creative Director of Abel Richard joins the Breakfast Show to discuss the thinking behind merging precision engineering with Italian craftsmanship, why his bags take around 1,000 hours to make, and how a new brand positions itself at the ultra-high end from day one.

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Morning Shot: Singaporeans Caught in the Middle East Conflict - The Race to Get Home

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 00:47:00 +0000

As tensions escalate across the Middle East following missile and drone strikes between Iran, the US and Israel, thousands of travellers have found themselves stranded as airspace closures disrupt flights across the region. Among them are Singaporeans who are now scrambling to find safe routes home, navigating airport shutdowns, uncertainty and rapidly changing security conditions.

Judith Tan, journalist at The Straits Times, joins Morning Shot to share what Singaporeans on the ground are experiencing, how authorities are responding to assist those affected, and what the situation reveals about the risks travellers face when geopolitical tensions suddenly escalate.

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Breakfast Quiz: Who runs the world? Girls! — The International Women’s Day Quiz

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 00:40:30 +0000

In the spirit of International Women’s Day, Audrey puts the guys to the test with a fast-paced quiz on the state of women in business and society. From the global gender pay gap to female CEOs, political representation and who’s really doing most of the unpaid care work — the numbers may surprise you. Gentlemen, are you man enough to take the test?

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Bites: Want to add years to your life? Playing tennis might be the answer!

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 13:27:13 +0000

It is no secret that exercising - be it walking, running or strength training - has great cardiovascular and other long-term health benefits.

But studies show that playing tennis has a particularly positive impact on lengthening lifespan because of the sport's unique blend of physical, social and cognitive challenges.

Tune in to Breakfast Bites to find out more!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Wall Street Bounces Back as Tech Leads the Charge

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 04:45:19 +0000

US stocks rebounded as easing oil prices and stronger economic data calmed fears of a growth scare.
The Dow, S&P 500 and Nasdaq all climbed, snapping a 3-day losing streak for the market.
Chipmakers such as Nvidia, AMD and Micron helped power the rally as investors returned to tech.
Kyle Rodda, Senior Financial Market Analyst at Capital.com weigh whether the rebound signals renewed confidence or just short term relief.

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Mind Your Business: The SME survival playbook for 2026

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 01:04:17 +0000

With rents high and margins tight, Singapore SMEs face a delicate balance between growth and prudence.

Aaron Koh, General Manager of Statrys joins The Breakfast Show to unpack sector-specific risks in F&B, services and trading, and how better financial visibility can mean the difference between scaling and shutting down.

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Bigger Pic: BTO applications down — What’s next for HDB buyers?

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 00:50:00 +0000

HDB’s February 2026 sales exercise saw over 9,000 flats on offer, but BTO application rates have dipped again, while Sale of Balance Flats are drawing stronger interest. Are buyers getting pickier, or are we seeing a deeper shift in sentiment? We unpack the trends with Christine Sun, Chief Researcher and Strategist at Realion Group.

Produced and Presented by Audrey Siek

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Bigger Pic: How Iran Tensions Could Hit Singapore

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 03:06:03 +0000

Rising tensions involving Iran have pushed oil prices higher, renewing concerns about global growth and inflation. For Singapore, a small and energy importing economy, the impact could ripple from consumer prices to trade, shipping and financial markets. As the Government signals it may reassess GDP forecasts if the conflict persists, how exposed is Singapore really and where are the key pressure points. Selena Ling, Chief Economist, OCBC Bank unpacks the risks to growth, sector vulnerabilities and the policy response ahead.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image: tetracarbon from Pixabay

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US Markets Wrap: Strait of Hormuz Fears Grip Global Markets

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 02:43:32 +0000

Stocks tumbled in another volatile session as fears of a prolonged U.S.-Iran conflict rattled investors, even after comments from US President Donald Trump sought to reassure markets about energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz. Dilin Wu, Research Strategist, Pepperstone discusses why oil risks may be skewed to the upside, why gold has not surged as expected, and whether the stronger US Dollar Index has further room to run. With nonfarm payrolls ahead, can economic data still move markets, or will geopolitics continue to dominate risk sentiment across equities, crude and currencies?

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image: Pawel Grzegorz from Pixabay

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Mind Your Business: Singapore’s aging future and the leadership behind community healthcare

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 01:01:15 +0000

As Singapore approaches “super-aged” status, healthcare is no longer just about treatment, it’s about prevention, active ageing, and holistic wellbeing.

On Mind Your Business, The Breakfast Show invites Tan Lay Kheng, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of St. Andrew’s Community Hospital to discuss how community hospitals are adapting to rising demand, how mental and physical health are becoming equally prioritised, and what Singaporeans should understand about living well for longer.

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Morning Shot: The Health Gap Men Don’t Talk About

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 00:28:29 +0000

Around World Obesity Day, much of the public conversation focuses on diet and body image. But clinicians are observing a quieter pattern, many men notice early weight gain or other subtle health changes, yet delay seeking help.

Annelise Lai, Senior Psychologist and Founder of Soma Psychology Clinic, joins the Breakfast Show to discuss how delayed action may surface in the daily lives of working adults, and what earlier, stigma-free intervention can realistically look like for individuals and organisations alike.

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Breakfast Bites: Inheritance 101 - How much should you leave your kids?

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 00:22:47 +0000

We tackle one of our most popular and emotionally charged poll questions today: how much should you actually leave your children? From property as “the inheritance plan” in Singapore, to the rise of the Die With Zero mindset, we unpack timing (should we give when we're gone?), fairness (split evenly between kids?) and motivation (would my kids get lazy??).

Whether you're a parent planning ahead or a child quietly wondering, this is a conversation every family eventually has.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Middle East tensions cast a shadow over aviation sector

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 08:19:09 +0000

Shukor Yusof, Founder & Analyst, Endau Analytics, discusses the consequences of escalating Middle East tensions on the aviation sector, including hits to commercial and cargo operations. He also analyses whether Gulf carriers can withstand ongoing geopolitical shocks, and potential cascading effects of the conflict on tourism sectors and economies beyond the region.

Produced & Presented by: Emaad Akhtar

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Breakfast Bites: As AI reshapes roles, what skills should fresh grads prioritise?

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 07:54:20 +0000

As AI continues to disrupt jobs and industries, it is incumbent upon humans to adapt to stay relevant.

This is particularly important for fresh graduates, who enter the workforce with limited real-world experience.

So what are employers looking for in the fresh grads of today as AI reshapes entry-level roles?

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey reveal what the experts have to say.

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Buying the Dip in a War Scare

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 03:25:02 +0000

U.S. stocks clawed back from steep losses after strikes involving the U.S., Israel and Iran rattled markets, with the S&P 500 finishing just above flat as oil prices eased and investors piled into mega cap tech names like Nvidia and Microsoft. José Torres, senior economist, Interactive Brokers discusses whether the slide toward 2026 lows was a buying opportunity or a justified repricing of geopolitical risk. At what point does elevated crude, potential supply disruption from Iran and shifting inflation expectations threaten the bull market and force the Federal Reserve to rethink rate cuts.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image: Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay

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Mind Your Business: The hard truth about food insecurity in Singapore

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 01:01:11 +0000

Singapore may be one of the world’s wealthiest nations, yet one in 10 residents still experiences food insecurity.

The Breakfast Show speaks with Arthur Chin, Executive Director of The Food Bank Singapore, about hidden hunger, rising cost pressures, and why support must go beyond meals to dignity and stability.

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Budget 2026: Are Current Family Policies Missing the Real Cost?

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:11:58 +0000

Budget 2026 continues to expand support for families through measures such as Child LifeSG credits and enhanced preschool and student-care subsidies, continuing efforts to ease the financial burden of raising children. But some argue that while these schemes reduce upfront costs, they may not address the longer-term income and career penalties associated with caregiving.

So, are current family policies targeting the right constraints? And could more structural forms of support, including experimentation with caregiving compensation, influence decisions around family formation?

Dr Kalpana Vignehsa, Senior Research Fellow at the Institute of Policy Studies at the National University of Singapore, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack what a deeper rethink of family policy might look like amid mounting demographic pressures.

For more Budget 2026 insights: https://www.moneyfm893.sg/whats-on/budget-2026/

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Bigger Pic: Markets on the Edge After Iran Strike

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 02:49:10 +0000

Markets are jittery after a coordinated strike on Iran, and uncertainty reigns. Is this just a short-lived shock, or the start of a prolonged energy-driven inflation cycle? From the Strait of Hormuz to safe havens, airlines, defense stocks, and gold, traders are reacting fast. Phan Vee Leung, CIO of Trackrecord Asia, breaks down real-time investor moves and the key risks shaping the days ahead.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Morning Shot: US and Israel Strike Iran - How Far Could This Go?

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 01:02:58 +0000

The United States and Israel have launched coordinated strikes on Iran, triggering retaliatory missile attacks across the Middle East and sharp exchanges at the United Nations. Tehran calls it a “war crime”. Washington says it is acting in the interest of global security.

As oil markets react and regional powers scramble to contain spillover, the question now is not just who acted but what happens next.

In this episode of Morning Shot, the Breakfast Show speaks with James M. Dorsey, Adjunct Senior Fellow at Nanyang Technological University’s S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, to examine how this confrontation is unfolding, what it signals about the balance of power in the region and how prolonged instability could reshape the global landscape.

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Mind Your Business: The real cost of running a pasta business in Singapore

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 01:02:14 +0000

Pasta is comfort food, but building a pasta brand in Singapore is anything but comfortable.

The Breakfast Show speaks with Timothy Chan, the founder of Pasta Play, about customisation, pricing strategy, operational discipline and surviving one of the toughest F&B markets in the world.

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Work Smart: Why Constant Notifications Are Costing You

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 01:00:00 +0000

Emails, messages, Slack alerts — they feel small in the moment. But cognitive research shows each interruption leaves “attention residue,” making it harder to return to deep focus.

In this episode, we explore why your brain craves notifications and how simple shifts in timing can reduce distraction and stress at work.

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Breakfast Bites: “How much do you earn?” — Is it rude to ask people about money?

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 23:29:16 +0000

Is it ever okay to ask someone how much they make — or how much they paid for their home? In this episode, we unpack our weekend poll results and dive into Singapore’s complicated relationship with money talk: from Chinese New Year “auntie questions” to generational divides and global salary transparency trends. Is it rude, cultural, or just badly phrased curiosity?

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: How robots are becoming real businesses in Asia

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 11:29:05 +0000

Robots are no longer science fiction, they’re becoming operational tools for businesses.

The Breakfast Show invites Abel Deng, President, Asia-Pacific & Middle East Region, AGIBOT to share his insights of the current state of the robotics industry, how humanoid robots like the A2 Ultra are built and used, and what it takes to scale a robotics company across Asia-Pacific.

Presented by: Audrey Siek and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by: Dan Koh

Image credit: AgiBot

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Breakfast Quiz: How well do you know your NGOs?

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 11:28:03 +0000

The Breakfast Quiz celebrates World NGO Day!

Listen in and play along as Emaad quizzes Ryan and Audrey on all things non-profits, including some that have rather unique missions!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Sean Cheong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Volatility Rising - Are Investors Rebuilding Cash?

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 02:41:00 +0000

U.S. stocks slipped despite earnings beats from Nvidia and Salesforce, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite pulling back as chip stocks sold off. Deborah Cunningham, CIO of Global Liquidity Markets at Federated Hermes talks about shifting investor sentiment and whether volatility is driving a move back into cash and liquidity instruments. How are tariff risks and geopolitical tensions influencing short-term positioning? And what do recent developments at Blue Owl mean for private credit and liquidity risk?

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Bigger Pic: Peak Profits or Second Wind? Inside Singapore Banks’ Earnings Test

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 02:35:48 +0000

Fresh results from Singapore banks come as rates ease and net interest margins drift off their highs — raising the question: have earnings peaked? Carmen Lee, Head of Equity Research, OCBC discusses whether fee income, regional growth and ASEAN expansion can offset margin pressure. Plus, what the latest numbers signal for asset quality, dividends and strategy in a lower-rate year ahead.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: AI Spending, Tariffs & the Next Leg for U.S. Markets

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 05:56:13 +0000

U.S. equities pushed higher ahead of Nvidia earnings, as investors reassess AI valuations and hyperscalers’ capex race. Todd Rabold, Investment Management Partner, Callan Family Office discusses the latest relatively weak US Q4 GDP print, tariff uncertainty, and what a steady Federal Reserve means for rate cuts this year. He also looks at the real opportunities may lie beyond mega-cap tech, from energy infrastructure to small caps and emerging markets.

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Mind Your Business: Why 85% of AI projects stall and how to get to production

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 01:10:49 +0000

Enterprise AI experimentation is slowing, and a harder question is emerging: where is the business value? With only 10–15% of AI projects reaching sustained production, many organisations are facing a “production gap” between pilots and profitability.

The Breakfast Show speaks with Guna Chellappan, General Manager Singapore at Red Hat, about why AI demos don’t automatically scale, the infrastructure and governance challenges holding companies back, and how to move AI from the playground to the profit centre.

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Breakfast Bites: Mental health days - How seriously should we take them?

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 01:07:10 +0000

“I'm not physically sick… I just can’t do today.” Ever heard this in your head in the morning?
Sometimes we need a break, even if we don't have the flu or a fever. But is that a legitimate reason to take leave? Are mental health days a right that is needed in today's landscape, or is it still misunderstood?

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Sean Cheong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Back to the Office - APAC rents stabilise, but what’s next?

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 01:06:59 +0000

Are we finally done with the office market rollercoaster? After a couple of choppy years, rents across Asia-Pacific are stabilising, and prime spaces are seeing demand again. The big question now is: who has the upper hand going into 2026: landlords or tenants? We find out with Tridiana Ong, Head of Occupier Strategy and Solutions for Singapore at Knight Frank.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

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Breakfast Bites: Burnout - is it a sign you should change jobs or careers?

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 06:33:15 +0000

Are you burnt out?

Does it mean you should change companies or switch careers even?

It all depends on your individual situation, and this is why investigation how you truly feel is important.

Are you overworked, or just staying in a job that isn't aligned with your long-term goals?

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey share what the experts are saying.

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Sean Cheong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Six commerce trends reshaping how consumers pay and spend

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 05:46:56 +0000

From AI-powered shopping agents to instant payments and embedded finance, commerce is evolving faster than many businesses realise.

On Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show speaks with Krishnaraj Tantri, Senior Vice President, South and SEA, Global Payments, to break down the six forces redefining how consumers pay, spend and interact with businesses across Asia.

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Breakfast Special: Beyond pay and perks - What’s really making you happy at work?

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 03:44:11 +0000

Singapore’s workforce is entering 2026 with a striking disconnect: while most workers believe happiness at work is possible, only 56% say they actually feel happy, placing Singapore among the lowest in the region.

Esther Lee, Managing Director, Singapore, Jobstreet by SEEK unpacks new findings that point to burnout, limited career progression and uneven access to purpose and recognition as key pressure points, even as pay is increasingly viewed as a baseline rather than a differentiator.

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US Markets Wrap: AI Relief Rally - AMD’s Breakout, Meta’s Bet, and the Software Comeback

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 03:20:54 +0000

U.S. markets rebounded sharply as fears of AI-driven disruption eased, lifting the S&P 500, Nasdaq, and Dow in a broad relief rally. A blockbuster multiyear partnership between Advanced Micro Devices and Meta Platforms — including up to 6 gigawatts of GPUs and a potential 160 million-share warrant — reignited the AI capex narrative and raised fresh questions about competition with Nvidia. Meanwhile, software names like Salesforce, ServiceNow, and DocuSign bounced as investors reconsider whether AI is a threat or a tailwind. Ryan Detrick, Chief Market Strategist, Carson Group breaks down whether this is just a relief rally, what it means for the AI arms race, and how global tariffs and industrial names like John Deere fit into the bigger macro picture.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image: Geralt via Pixabay

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Bigger Pic: ASEAN at an Inflection Point - Rates, AI & the New Risk-Reward Playbook

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 01:44:35 +0000

As policy rates peak across ASEAN, what does easing mean for banks, asset quality and the broader credit cycle? Daniel Lau, Portfolio Manager, Eastspring Investments shares where the real opportunities lie, and which of Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand or Vietnam offers the best risk-reward today.

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Breakfast Bites: Curling 101 - fun facts you may not know about this winter sport!

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 05:59:00 +0000

The Winter Olympics 2026 are in full swing - and that means our favourite winter sports are back in the spotlight!

Now, curling may not be as popular as the likes of snowboarding, figure skating, or freestyle skiing, but it's idiosyncracies may pique your interest!

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey dive into the basic rules and some fun facts on Curling is Cool Day!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Dan Koh

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Morning Shot: China’s Retail Wave - Are Singapore SMEs Being Crowded Out?

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 05:17:09 +0000

Singapore’s retail sector is facing intensifying pressure. While nearly 90% of registered retail entities are locally owned, the rapid expansion of Chinese brands across F&B, fashion, beauty and lifestyle has sharpened competition in malls and prime retail spaces. But beyond brand visibility, the real strain lies in a cost environment and competitive model that increasingly rewards scale, speed and capital strength.

Dr Lawrence Loh, Director of the Centre for Governance and Sustainability at NUS Business School, joins the Breakfast Show to examine whether this moment marks a passing competitive wave or a longer-term reset of Singapore’s retail landscape, and what it will take for local SMEs to stay resilient in a market that is evolving faster than ever.

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US Markets Wrap: When AI Anxiety Meets Tariff Turbulence

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 03:01:58 +0000

US stocks slid sharply as AI disruption fears and renewed tariff tensions under President Donald Trump rattled sentiment, pushing the S&P 500 back into negative territory for 2026. Heavyweights like IBM, Microsoft and CrowdStrike led the decline amid fresh competition from Anthropic. Fabien Yip, Market Analyst, IG breaks down the Supreme Court tariff implications, the close of US Q4 earnings with focus on Nvidia, and more.

Image: Alexandra_Koch from Pixabay

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Bigger Pic: Useful money-saving travel tips for 2026!

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 02:41:51 +0000

Jessica Min, Travel Trends & Destinations Expert, Skyscanner shares the biggest hurdles Singaporeans face when planning their overseas vacations, the most popular cheap destinations for 2026, how travellers can maximize value on short trips, and whether there really is a cheapest day to fly.

Produced & Presented by: Emaad Akhtar

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Breakfast Bites: Ever been tempted to scroll through your kid’s phone?

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 02:02:16 +0000

On Breakfast Bites, we’re tackling one of modern parenting’s trickiest debates. If your child has a smartphone, do you have the right to check it?
Is that responsible parenting, or a serious invasion of privacy?
Audrey, Ryan and Emaad dive into safety versus trust in the age of smartphones.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Not just admin - How SMEs should work on their HR

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 02:01:40 +0000

SMEs power Singapore’s economy, but rising costs, intense competition and talent pressures are making survival tougher than ever. With people often the biggest expense line, is HR still being treated as back-office admin instead of a strategic function?

We speak with Stephanie Chua, Founder of Vault Personnel, about whether HR has evolved fast enough to meet the realities facing SMEs today, and why getting it wrong can be costly.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Sean Cheong

Photo credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Tariffs, Oil & AI - What’s Driving Markets Now?

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 06:06:54 +0000

Markets are navigating fresh uncertainty after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down former President Trump’s emergency tariff powers, while oil prices swing on U.S.-Iran tensions and AI-fueled tech stocks brace for Nvidia’s earnings. We speak with Vasu Menon, Managing Director, Investment Strategy, OCBC Bank about what this means for investors in Asia, market volatility ahead, and whether the AI trade still has room to run.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Work Smart: The Secret Power of a 3-Minute Break

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 01:00:00 +0000

You don’t need a long rest to reset, studies on micro-breaks show that even pauses under five minutes can lift your mood, restore attention and reduce mental fatigue. So, a simple three-minute pause gives your brain just enough space to detach and let its “reset networks” switch on, so you return sharper than before.

This episode explores why these “micro-resets” work and how to fit them naturally into a busy day.

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Mind Your Business: Why you don’t need VC money to build a million-dollar business

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 00:56:39 +0000

Entrepreneurship is often framed as speed, scale and venture capital. But what if longevity is the real advantage?

The Breakfast Show invites Joanna Teo, Managing Director of Attribute Data, to share her journey from bootstrapping a profitable data agency to building a self-funded product startup, and what sustainable entrepreneurship really looks like in Singapore.

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Budget 2026: Singapore’s Next Phase in Sustainability and Carbon Pricing Strategy

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 00:08:35 +0000

Budget 2026 has added nuance to Singapore’s sustainability journey. While the country remains committed to its long-term net-zero ambitions, the tone around carbon pricing appears more measured, reflecting a global environment where climate momentum has become less uniform and economic pressures more pronounced.

Beyond the carbon tax, the Government continues to push ahead with solar expansion, regional electricity imports and the exploration of emerging low-carbon energy sources.

So how should businesses interpret this mix of pragmatism and ambition? Kum Mun Lock, Vice President of Strategic Client Success at Univers joins the Breakfast Show to unpack what Budget 2026 signals for corporate sustainability strategies and long-term investment decisions.

For more Budget 2026 insights:

https://www.moneyfm893.sg/whats-on/budget-2026/

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US Markets Wrap: Inflation Patience, Retail Caution, and Geopolitical Risk

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 02:20:19 +0000

U.S. stocks pulled back, leaving the S&P 500 hovering near flat for the year as investors rotated out of financials and kept a close eye on simmering tensions between the United States and Iran. Steve Sosnick, Chief Strategist, Interactive Brokers examines mixed corporate signals from Walmart and Deere & Company, and what they reveal about the consumer and cyclical outlook. With the Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index expected to edge higher, we ask whether inflation is stalling — and if markets are too optimistic on rate cuts.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Bigger Pic: Is real estate back in 2026 and why Coliwoo is on the radar

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 01:29:09 +0000

Interest rates have plateaued, long yields are easing, and capital is slowly returning to property markets. But is 2026 a true recovery year for real estate, or just selective strength?

Dan Koh sits down with Vijay Natarajan, Vice President, Real Estate & REITs, Equity Research, RHB Singapore to unpack the rate impact on property valuations, segment divergence across real estate, and the investment case behind co-living operator Coliwoo.

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Mind Your Business: Why most SMEs struggle to scale and how AI could change that

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 01:19:30 +0000

Startups may dominate headlines, but SMEs remain the backbone of Singapore’s economy. So why are so many struggling to scale or survive beyond the founder?

On this episode of Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show speaks with Daniel Charles, Founder & CEO of Sum Capital Partners, about acquiring and modernising traditional businesses, building shared systems across SMEs, and using AI as a strategic advantage.

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Companies To Watch: New York Times rallies after Berkshire Hathaway takes a stake

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 01:05:43 +0000

The New York Times is back in focus after Berkshire Hathaway disclosed a roughly 3% stake in the media company. Shares jumped following the news, adding to a strong 12-month rally driven by digital subscription and advertising growth.

Dan Koh and Audrey Siek break down why Warren Buffett’s move matters, how NYT’s business has transformed, and what investors should watch next.

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Budget 2026: How New Work Pass Rules Could Influence Hiring Strategy

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 00:26:44 +0000

Under Budget 2026, Singapore will raise the qualifying salaries for Employment Pass and S Pass holders from 2027, alongside lifting the local qualifying salary and adjusting selected work permit levies. The changes are phased in, but they form part of a continued calibration of the foreign workforce framework. So, how might firms adjust their workforce mix? And what should businesses be reviewing now as the changes take effect from 2027?

Jod Gill, Partner, Deloitte SG Tax Services, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack what the Budget 2026 measures mean for employers on the ground.

For more Budget 2026 insights:

https://www.moneyfm893.sg/whats-on/budget-2026/

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Breakfast Quiz: From hawkers to handouts - A global look on government support

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 00:08:38 +0000

In the spirit of Budget 2026, we put your global knowledge to the test with a fun, fast-paced quiz on government grants and support schemes around the world! From Singapore’s hawker subsidies to generous maternity leave in Bulgaria, how well do you really know where the money goes? Play along and see if you can ace this global “goodies” edition of Breakfast Quiz.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Dan Koh

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Morning Shot: Can Budget 2026 Spark a ‘We First’ Shift?

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 09:05:10 +0000

Budget 2026 sets aside $50 million for a new SG Partnerships Fund to back ground-up community projects as part of a broader push to strengthen social bonds and build what Prime Minister Lawrence Wong calls a “we first” society. Corporate volunteer and donation tax incentives have also been extended to 2029, signalling a continued effort to encourage businesses to play a larger role in social impact.

But will funding and tax deductions be enough to shift behaviour? According to the National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre’s latest study, only 14% of companies in Singapore engage in corporate volunteering, with leadership interest cited as the biggest barrier.

Megan Fernandes, Head of Community Investment, Prudential Singapore joins the Breakfast Show to examine whether Budget 2026’s measures can translate intent into sustained action and what it will take for businesses to step up.

For more Budget 2026 insights:

https://www.moneyfm893.sg/whats-on/budget-2026/

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Breakfast Bites: A less experienced colleague gets promoted ahead of you - what next?

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 06:59:18 +0000

Have you ever been in a situation where a less experienced colleague has been promoted ahead of you? How did you react?

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey share expert tips on good practices to follow in such instances, including shifting the narrative from "why not me" to "what would it take."

Have a listen!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Dan Koh

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Navigating AI Frenzy and Market Divergence in 2026

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 04:29:18 +0000

David Abella, Director of Investments, GoalVest breaks down the latest moves in the U.S. stock market. The S&P 500 climbed on tech gains while the equal-weight index outperformed signaling a shift in leadership. We explore where smart money is rotating in technology, how AI is driving capital expenditures and which sectors could benefit. David also shares insights on earnings trends market valuations and potential triggers for volatility along with strategies for dividends international markets and hedges like gold.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image: Frank Rietsch from Pixabay

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Bigger Pic: Prime property rebound? Touring Singapore’s luxury housing outlook

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 01:24:58 +0000

Singapore’s prime residential market is tipped to return to growth after a weak 2025, but is this the start of a sustained recovery or just a modest bounce? We speak with Alan Cheong, Executive Director of Research & Consultancy, Savills Singapore about who’s buying, how cooling measures like ABSD are shaping demand, and the key risks high-end buyers should watch in 2026.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

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Mind Your Business: How Fossa turned Singapore flavours into a sustainable craft business

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 00:58:44 +0000

From Satay Sauce and Salted Egg Cereal chocolate bars to curated craft sake, Fossa Chocolate has built one of Singapore’s most distinctive premium food brands. But behind the bold flavours lies serious operational strategy.

The Breakfast Show speaks with co-founder Yilina Leong about building craft with commercial intelligence.

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Companies To Watch: Ferrari earnings rev up as the prancing horse gallops into 2026

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 00:49:22 +0000

Ferrari beat expectations in its latest earnings and lifted sentiment with a confident 2026 forecast, supported by new model launches and a strong order book.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down the key numbers, why the market reacted positively, and what investors should watch as Ferrari prepares to unveil its first fully electric model in May.

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Bigger Pic: AI Scare Trade, Global Earnings & Singapore Market Moves

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 01:16:20 +0000

Oriano Lizza from CMC Markets Singapore unpacks the AI scare trade and which industries could face the biggest disruption, previewing major global earnings from Alibaba, Walmart and Berkshire Hathaway, and examining recent movers in the Singapore stock market following the Budget statement.

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Breakfast Bites: CDC Vouchers - Spend, splurge or pay it forward?

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 01:00:20 +0000

With every Singapore household set to receive another $500 in CDC vouchers next January, how should you use yours? As we unpack Budget 2026, we go beyond supermarket runs and hawker favourites to explore Michelin Bib dining spots, hobby finds at Bras Basah, and even how you can donate your unused vouchers to charity.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Work Smart: The Smart Way to Align With Your Manager

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 01:00:00 +0000

If you’ve ever wished your boss understood what you need, you’re not alone. Managing up is really about clearer communication, not manipulation.

This episode shows how small habits like clarifying expectations and pre-empting updates can make work smoother for both you and your manager.

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Companies To Watch: Hermès delivers strong growth as luxury sector slows

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 00:59:19 +0000

Hermès reported full-year 2025 revenue of €16 billion, beating expectations with resilient growth in leather goods and strong performance in the Americas and Japan.

While net profit dipped slightly due to a one-off French surtax, underlying earnings and margins remained robust. Dan Koh and Audrey Siek break down the numbers, why Hermès continues to outperform peers, and what investors should watch in 2026.

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Mind Your Business: Scaling a Singapore food brand without opening more stores

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 00:57:32 +0000

The Kettle Gourmet started as a gourmet popcorn brand. Today, it operates 11 snack brands and exports across Asia.

On Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show invites Zac Chua, Founder, The Kettle Gourmet to share how owning production lines, avoiding retail, and focusing on regional distribution transformed his company into a scalable consumer business built for long-term profitability.

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Budget 2026: What the New Manpower Rules and Business Incentives Mean for SMEs

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 00:52:56 +0000

Budget 2026 sets out a mix of adjustments and incentives that may shape the operating environment for Singapore’s small and medium-sized enterprises going forward. From changes to foreign manpower qualifying salaries to measures aimed at supporting internationalisation and business transformation, the signals are clear but the impact may not be uniform across sectors.

So how should SMEs interpret this year’s Budget? Where might cost pressures be most keenly felt, and how might firms respond as policy shifts take effect over the next two years?

Chor Khieng Yuit, Senior Business Correspondent, The Straits Times joins the Breakfast Show to share her insights.

For more Budget 2026 insights:
https://www.moneyfm893.sg/whats-on/budget-2026/

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Breakfast Quiz: It's time for Friday the 13th trivia! How superstitious are you?

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 17:13:23 +0000

This Breakfast Quiz is all about Friday the 13th! Featuring historical origins, pop culture, presidents and more!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: When AI Becomes the Market’s Biggest Risk

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 04:10:11 +0000

Wall Street tumbled as investors shifted from cheering AI’s promise to fearing its disruption, with the Dow plunging 670 points and tech and software stocks extending steep losses. From financials to freight and real estate, concerns over job losses and squeezed profit margins rattled sentiment, even as some strategists argue the selloff may be overdone. Brenda Vingiello, Chief Investment Officer, Sand Hill Global Advisors unpack the volatility, defensive rotation into staples, and what the upcoming inflation data could mean for markets next.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image: Frank Rietsch from Pixabay

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Budget 2026: From Caution to Confidence - Can SMEs Seize the Budget Moment?

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 02:50:47 +0000

In the wake of Singapore’s latest Budget, attention is turning to what the measures will mean where it matters on the ground for small and medium-sized enterprises. From cost pressures and manpower constraints to AI adoption and overseas expansion, are businesses feeling reassured… or still wary about the road ahead?

We take the pulse of SME sentiment with:

Chen Ze Ling, Group Head of Corporate and SME Banking at DBS
Eric Sim, Founder of Institute of Life
Toh Ting Feng, CEO and Co-Founder of GetGo

Join the Breakfast Show as we unpack early reactions to the Budget, explore how AI is reshaping business models, and explore why more SMEs are eyeing overseas expansion in 2026.

For more Budget 2026 insights:
https://www.moneyfm893.sg/whats-on/budget-2026/

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Budget 2026: Relief, Reform, and a Reset for Growth

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 01:52:41 +0000

Budget 2026 was delivered yesterday against a backdrop of moderating growth and rising global uncertainty. The speech spanned business tax rebates, enhanced overseas expansion support, labour market adjustments, artificial intelligence initiatives, capital market funding, and more calibrated household support.

This episode of Morning Shot breaks down what stood out from the announcements, from the signal being sent to Singapore firms, to the shift in tone around household relief, and the structural bets on AI and capital markets.

As businesses and households begin digesting the measures, we also look ahead to what matters most in the months to come. The Breakfast Show is joined by Ovais Subhani, Senior Business Correspondent at The Straits Times.

For more Budget 2026 insights:
https://www.moneyfm893.sg/whats-on/budget-2026/

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Bigger Pic: Can Budget 2026 push Singapore stocks even higher

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 01:30:20 +0000

The STI has just crossed 5,000 for the first time, and Budget 2026 may be adding fresh fuel to the rally. From a S$1.5 billion boost to deepen equity participation, to a new National AI Council and fresh consumer support, the policy signals are clear.

Dan Koh speaks with Sarah Jane Mahmud, Senior Industry Analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence to break down the real winners, the overlooked sectors, and whether Singapore stocks can sustain their record run.

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Companies To Watch: Sheng Siong slides after OCBC downgrade despite Budget boost

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 01:27:18 +0000

Sheng Siong is back in focus after OCBC downgraded the supermarket operator to “hold”, citing stretched valuations following a strong 2025 rally.

Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar examine whether fundamentals justify the premium pricing, how Budget 2026’s CDC vouchers could help stabilise demand, and what investors should monitor next.

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Breakfast Bites: Great female inventions throughout history!

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:46:23 +0000

On International Day of Women and Girls in Science, Emaad, Ryan and Audrey share some of the greatest female inventions across history!

Think paper coffee filters, the foot-pedal trashcan, disposable diapers and frozen pizza!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Will 2026 be a turning point for the industrial property market?

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 01:14:22 +0000

Singapore’s industrial sector may not make splashy headlines, but it powers everything from semiconductors to AI infrastructure. Despite global trade tensions and rising supply, the market has held firm in 2025 — so how durable is that resilience? We speak with Dr Chua Yang Liang, Head of Research & Consultancy for Southeast Asia at JLL about where the real opportunities and risks lie, and what to watch as Budget 2026 approaches.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

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Mind Your Business: Building a hawker business from the ground up

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 01:04:32 +0000

As fewer young people enter the hawker trade, some are finding new meaning in old paths.

On Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show speaks with Reuben Koh, Founder of The Reverie, about modernising a hawker business, balancing passion with practicality, and what small food operators need to survive and grow in Singapore today.

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Companies To Watch: CapitaLand Investment profit plunges as China drag weighs

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 00:29:56 +0000

CapitaLand Investment reported a sharp 70% drop in full-year net profit after significant revaluation losses from its China portfolio weighed on earnings. While headline results disappointed, operating profit and fee income remained resilient as the group continues shifting toward an asset-light, recurring revenue model.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang unpack what drove the weakness, how the dividend held up, and what investors should watch next.

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Budget 2026: What Should Singaporeans Be Listening For?

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 00:24:00 +0000

Singapore’s economy has closed the past fiscal year on a strong note, but many households are still navigating cost pressures, job uncertainty and a rapidly shifting global environment. As Budget 2026 is unveiled later today — the first of the new political term — expectations are high. Will the focus be on extending cost-of-living support, strengthening job security in an AI-driven economy, or rebuilding fiscal buffers for future shocks?

Dr. Reuben Ng, Behavioural and Data Scientist at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at NUS, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack the public mood heading into this Budget, the trade-offs policymakers face, and the key signals Singaporeans should be listening for when the speech is delivered.

For more Budget 2026 insights:
https://www.moneyfm893.sg/whats-on/budget-2026/

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Breakfast Bites: The great 'Ang Bao' debate - How much is enough?

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 00:16:27 +0000

As Chinese New Year is just around the corner, we dive into the annual ang bao arithmetic! How much should we give nowadays? Do we think about “equalising” between families?

Plus, in a world where more adults stay single longer, when is it time to retire from collecting red packets? It’s tradition, budgeting, and a little family politics... all in one festive conversation!

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Singapore’s Growth Surge Before CNY, Momentum or Mirage

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 12:16:26 +0000

Singapore heads into Chinese New Year on a festive high, with Q4 2025 GDP expanding nearly 7% year on year and full-year growth beating expectations. However, beneath the headline numbers, questions remain about how much of the surge was powered by AI-driven external demand versus genuine domestic strength. Song Seng Wun, Economic Advisor at SDAX, unpacks the drivers behind the upgrade, the risks and upside factors shaping MTI’s 2% to 4% growth forecast for 2026, and how vulnerable Singapore’s outlook is to global AI investment cycles, trade tensions and geopolitical uncertainty. We also examine why CNY still feels expensive despite easing inflation, and whether the rapid turnover in Singapore’s F&B scene signals renewal or deeper structural strain in the economy.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Retail Reality Check as Wall Street Splits

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 02:14:59 +0000

Matt Maley, Chief Market Strategist, Miller Tabak looks at the US markets sending mixed signals as softer retail sales rattled confidence in the consumer outlook. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq slipped amid pressure on major retailers and fresh worries about AI’s impact on finance, while the Dow defied the gloom to notch another record close above 50,000.

Produced/presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: hue and the business of making wellness enjoyable

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 01:14:05 +0000

Mood wellness is becoming part of everyday life, but turning science-backed benefits into products consumers actually enjoy is no small feat.

On Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show speaks with Sophian Abdul Rahman and Shaneika Ong of Hue about building a new wellness category through snackable formats, research-driven product development, brand trust, and scaling across Asia.

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Companies To Watch: Advantest rallies on Japan’s election boost and the AI chip testing boom

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 00:49:51 +0000

Japan’s market surged after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s landslide election win, reigniting a “Takaichi trade” that lifted tech and semiconductor-linked names. One standout was Advantest, the chip-testing equipment giant, which has also been delivering strong fundamentals as AI data-centre spending drives demand for advanced chip testing.

In this episode, Dan Koh and Ryan Huang unpack why the election mattered for markets, what Advantest just reported, the latest guidance upgrades, and why investors are watching capex-driven AI demand so closely right now.

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Budget 2026: Can Budget 2026 Save Singapore’s F&B Sector?

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 00:27:22 +0000

As Budget 2026 approaches, Singapore’s dining and hospitality industry is warning that many of the pressures facing operators may be structural rather than temporary. Volatile rentals, rising manpower costs and persistent labour shortages are making it harder for businesses to plan ahead, invest and stay viable in an increasingly crowded market.

Andrew Chan, Vice President of the Management Committee at the Restaurant Association of Singapore, joins the Breakfast Show to explain why the association is pushing for changes such as rental cost predictability, enhanced wage co-funding and adjustments to foreign worker policies and how these proposals could shape the future of dining in Singapore.

For more Budget 2026 insights:
https://www.moneyfm893.sg/whats-on/budget-2026/

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Bigger Pic: Where are we traveling this Lunar New Year?

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 06:04:27 +0000

Laura Houldsworth, Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Booking.com discusses the factors driving overseas travel during Lunar New Year; why Singaporeans seem increasingly open to long-haul trips during this period; accommodation trends emerging for families traveling together; and why some markets and are staying local while others are going international.

Produced & Presented by Emaad Akhtar

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US Markets Wrap: Markets Climb with Tech in Focus

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 02:53:27 +0000

Markets opened the week on a strong note as technology stocks drove gains across major indexes. The S&P 500 rose for a second consecutive day while the Dow hit a record close. Nvidia and Broadcom continued their rally and Oracle surged after an analyst upgrade fueled by AI optimism. Kyle Rodda, Senior Financial Market Analyst at Capital.com looks at how investors are positioning for the delayed January jobs report following weak ADP numbers and await a fresh round of earnings releases. He also breaks down Japan's sharp rise in the stock market following a resounding election win by PM Sanae Takaichi.

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Mind Your Business: How Koocester turned curiosity into a creator business

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 01:05:01 +0000

A simple question sparked a creator journey that grew into a multi-vertical business.

On Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show speaks with Koocester about how curiosity became a platform spanning business, wealth, autos and more, and what he’s learned about entrepreneurship, money and success from speaking to people across the region.

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Companies To Watch: DBS earnings signal the shift after peak interest rates

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 01:04:29 +0000

DBS reported softer earnings as lower interest rates weighed on margins, even as fee income, wealth management and dividends improved.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang unpack the results, what drove the profit miss, how investors should read the outlook, and what matters next for Singapore’s biggest bank.

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Morning Shot: Can Singapore Hold Its Edge in an AI-Driven Global Economy?

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 00:27:19 +0000

As global companies reassess supply chains, geopolitical risk and long-term growth plans, decisions about where to invest are becoming more strategic and more selective. Despite this volatile backdrop, Singapore secured S$14.2 billion in investment commitments in 2025, with nearly S$9 billion in total business expenditure, signalling continued confidence in its role as a hub for high-value activities.

Jillian Lim, Executive Vice President at the Economic Development Board, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack what’s driving these investment decisions, why manufacturing and newer growth areas like AI and R&D continue to feature strongly, and what this shift towards more innovation and skills-intensive sectors means for businesses and workers heading into 2026.

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Breakfast Bites: Adult kids living at home - When is it time to pay up?

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 00:22:50 +0000

With many Singaporeans living at home well into adulthood, the question of money can get awkward fast. Audrey, Ryan and Emaad unpack when adult children should start contributing to household bills — whether it’s rent, utilities, groceries, or something in between — and how families can navigate expectations without turning dinner conversations tense.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Bites: Did you know Norwegians are the biggest consumers of pizza?

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 08:07:07 +0000

On World Pizza Day, the Breakfast Crew discuss some fun facts about our favourite circular-shaped friends.

Who are the world's largest consumers of pizza? What's considered the most expensive one? What is the most bizarre mode of payment for a pizza?

All these questions answered on Breakfast Bites!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Singapore’s PMI Pops - Real Momentum or Regional Sugar Rush

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 01:39:03 +0000

Singapore has kicked off 2026 strongly, with the PMI rising to 56.8 in January, marking a year of expansion driven by faster new business and hiring, even as costs stay elevated. That strength contrasts with a tentative global recovery, where manufacturing PMI is just 50.9, while Japan’s post-election policy clarity and improving PMI add a fresh regional tailwind. Pan Jingyi, Economics Associate Director, S&P Global Market Intelligence looks at the the question of whether Singapore’s momentum is sustainable or partly sentiment-driven.

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Mind Your Business: How a second generation founder modernised a family beauty business

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 01:26:28 +0000

As the beauty and aesthetics industry evolves, legacy businesses face a choice: adapt or fade.

On Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show speaks with Sandra Koh of Bio Aesthetic about rebuilding trust through data-backed treatments, restructuring a family business, and redefining what longevity looks like in a changing market.

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Work Smart: Why Reflection Makes You Better at Your Job

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 01:00:00 +0000

Pausing to reflect can feel like wasted time in a busy schedule. But your brain doesn’t improve simply by doing more, it improves by noticing patterns and adjusting behaviour. Research on learning and performance shows that reflection plays a critical role in this process.

This episode breaks down why reflection matters for workplace learning, and how small, intentional pauses can lead to better decisions and long-term skill development.

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Companies To Watch: Amazon earnings beat but stock slumps as big capex looms

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 00:49:21 +0000

Amazon posted strong revenue growth and solid cloud performance in its latest earnings report, but investors were more focused on an aggressive $200 billion capital expenditure plan and softer near-term profit guidance.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down the latest results, what the numbers say about AWS and core retail, why the stock fell, and what investors need to watch next.

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Morning Shot: Japan’s Decisive Vote - What Takaichi’s Supermajority Changes

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 00:49:02 +0000

Japan’s voters have spoken — delivering Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi a powerful supermajority just four months into her leadership. It comes at a moment when Japanese voters are feeling the strain of rising living costs, markets are uneasy over proposed tax cuts, and the region is watching closely as Tokyo sharpens its stance on defence, China and Taiwan.

Dr. Lim Tai Wei, Adjunct Senior Research Fellow at the East Asian Institute, National University of Singapore, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack what this election changes and what businesses and investors in Singapore should be watching next.

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Bigger Pic: How investors are rethinking AI infrastructure and healthcare

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 01:03:56 +0000

Markets have turned more selective as volatility returns and investors demand clearer earnings and efficiency. The focus has shifted from big ideas to real-world constraints, from whether AI spending can deliver returns, to whether power and grid infrastructure can keep up, and why healthcare is back on investors’ radar.

On The Bigger Picture, Dan Koh speaks with Charu Chanana, Chief Investment Strategist at Saxo about the key themes shaping markets right now and how investors should think about positioning in a more demanding investment environment.

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Mind Your Business: Building a women’s tailoring business and competing with fast fashion

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 01:03:43 +0000

From investment dressing to the rise of tailored workwear, women’s fashion is evolving alongside shifting consumer expectations.

The Breakfast Show invites Frederieke van Doorn, founder of FREY, to discuss business timing, manufacturing challenges, pricing strategy, and how niche brands can stand out in a market dominated by fast fashion and mass production.

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Companies To Watch: E.L.F Beauty delivers strong earnings and expands its growth strategy

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 01:03:12 +0000

E.L.F. Beauty posts a standout earnings quarter, raises full-year guidance, and reshapes its future with the billion-dollar acquisition of Hailey Bieber’s Rhode brand.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang unpack what’s driving performance today and how the Rhode acquisition could influence the next phase of growth.

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Breakfast Quiz: Are you huat or not? Let's test you on your Chinese New Year knowledge!

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 23:47:36 +0000

Chinese New Year is almost here, and this week’s breakfast quiz is all about the meanings behind the munchies and traditions. From oranges and bakkwa to lion dances and lo hei, it’s a festive deep dive into wealth, luck, and symbolism. Think you know your CNY facts? Find out in this edition of "Huat or Not"!

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Unpacking the state of data centre REITs in 2026

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 01:37:05 +0000

Data centre REITs sit at the heart of digital growth, but rising rates and other risks have tested the sector. Digital Core REIT CEO John Stewart breaks down where the market stands now, what’s stabilising, and what investors should watch heading into 2026.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

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Mind Your Business: How brand collaborations really work behind the scenes

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 00:56:30 +0000

Brand collaborations look simple from the outside, but behind every successful partnership are hard decisions around product fit, operations and execution.

On Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show speaks with Sophia Yeow of Tiaptiap and Amy Bell of Yo-Chi about building brands, expanding into Singapore, and the realities of collaborating well.

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Companies To Watch: Why Keppel REIT’s DPU dropped and what it means for investors

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 00:41:19 +0000

Keppel REIT reported a meaningful decline in distribution per unit despite higher income. Dan Koh and Ryan Huang analyse the drivers behind the drop, the impact of acquisitions and dilution, and what income investors should watch next.

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Breakfast Special: The Recognition Gap - Why Employees Want More Than “Good Job”

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 00:40:00 +0000

A recent Randstad survey in Singapore, shows that a lack of recognition or appreciation is among the top three factors discouraging employees across Gen Z, millennials and Gen X. What’s striking is that this dissatisfaction persists even in workplaces that already offer competitive pay and benefits, pointing to a problem that goes beyond compensation. As work becomes more fluid, much of what organisations now depend on is harder to track and easy to overlook.

Trevor Yu, Associate Professor at the Nanyang Business School, Co-director of the NTU Centre for Research and Development in Learning joins the Breakfast Show to unpack why recognition is breaking down in today’s workplaces, why it matters more now than before, and what this says about how organisations value work in an era of ambiguity and constant change.

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Breakfast Bites: A jar every 2.5 seconds - Unpacking the story of Nutella

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 23:59:25 +0000

A jar sold every 2.5 seconds, 99% brand recognition, and countless copycats... Nutella’s numbers are as rich as its spread!

This World Nutella Day episode looks at how it all began, why the world (and Singapore!) oves it, and how Nutella stays winning without flashy ads or constant reinvention.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Tech Takes the Hit as Wall Street Loses Its Nerve

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 23:08:35 +0000

A renewed sell-off in technology stocks pulled the S&P 500 lower and sent the Nasdaq down 1.5 percent, with Advanced Micro Devices among the notable laggards. The Dow managed to rise, but the overall tone remained defensive. Crypto markets mirrored the caution, as bitcoin dropped more than 3 percent after breaking below the $73,000 mark. José Torres, senior economist at Interactive Brokers discusses what investors are concerned about most now.

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Bigger Pic: What the Nasdaq-SGX Bridge Means for Markets

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 03:53:36 +0000

As capital markets go global, regulators are rethinking how companies list across borders. Tim Pitrelli, Partner at Cooley, talks about the proposed SGX–Nasdaq regulatory bridge, why a single prospectus could change the calculus for dual listings, and what it means for issuers and investors as the framework moves toward a mid-2026 launch.

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US Markets Wrap: Tech Selloff and Dollar Signals

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 03:32:29 +0000

The S&P 500 pulled back as investors rotated out of tech stocks, while the Dow briefly touched a new record. The Nasdaq slipped further with heavy losses among the Magnificent Seven and software names. Dilin Wu, Research Strategist, Pepperstone explores what’s happening in precious metals, with gold and silver stabilizing after a correction and technical factors supporting short-term rebounds.

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Mind Your Business: What this economic cycle is teaching Singapore SMEs

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:46:40 +0000

As credit conditions tighten and cost pressures remain elevated, Singapore’s SMEs are being tested on more than growth alone. Increasingly, survival is about judgment, discipline and knowing where to invest — and where not to.

The Breakfast Show invites Aditya Haripurkar, CEO of HitPay, to unpack how businesses are navigating this tougher environment, what responsible scaling really looks like today, and how SMEs should think about global expansion without overextending themselves.

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Companies To Watch: Parkway Life REIT results highlight defensive income appeal

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:45:11 +0000

Stable hospital leases and overseas healthcare assets helped Parkway Life REIT deliver steady income growth.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang explore how its healthcare portfolio supports predictable cash flows and long-term income.

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Morning Shot: Inside China’s Military Shake-Up

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:38:55 +0000

China’s military leadership has been under rare and intense scrutiny in recent weeks, following the removal of some of its most senior generals including figures once seen as close to Xi Jinping. While authorities have described the investigations as cases of “serious violations of discipline and law”, messaging from military-linked outlets has stressed zero tolerance for corruption and warned that no rank is beyond reach.

As these moves ripple through China’s armed forces, questions are emerging about command stability, morale, and how power is now exercised inside the People’s Liberation Army.

Yew Lun Tian, Senior Correspondent reporting on China, The Straits Times joins the Breakfast Show to unpack why this matters beyond Beijing and what should countries in the region, including Singapore, be paying attention to?

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Breakfast Bites: Would you be a "meal buddy" or queue for others to make money?

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 23:07:50 +0000

Office work? Forget it! From queueing for concert tickets to being hired as a meal buddy or even a “rent-a-date,” non-mainstream jobs are on the rise as Gen Z gets creative in a changing job market. As AI and automation reshape entry-level work, we explore how "unconventional" gigs are becoming a new hustle!

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: SanDisk shares soar as AI demand fuels memory supercycle

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 00:43:58 +0000

SanDisk has been one of the market’s hottest stocks as demand for AI infrastructure and data centre storage surges.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down its blowout earnings, bullish outlook, and why memory pricing power is driving the rally.

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Breakfast Bites: Career gaps - Are they no longer taboo?

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 00:35:26 +0000

Would you dare to step away from work for a year... or longer? From burnout and reskilling to caregiving, career breaks are becoming more common and more accepted in Singapore. Audrey and Ryan unpack why the stigma around career gaps is fading, what employers really think today, and how to turn time away from work into a strength, not a setback.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Morning Shot: Is Your Business Actually Ready for Disruption?

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 00:34:43 +0000

As Singapore runs Exercise SG Ready 2026, businesses are being asked to confront a different kind of risk. Not dramatic crises, but prolonged power outages and degraded digital connectivity that can quietly disrupt everyday operations. For organisations that rely heavily on digital tools and real-time systems, even short disruptions can expose assumptions that aren’t always visible. So why does this matter for business leaders and teams here in Singapore?

Mr Suhaimi Zainul-Abidin, CEO of Quantedge Capital, joins the Breakfast Show to discuss what simulated disruptions reveal about organisational blind spots, how smaller teams can think more realistically about preparedness, and why resilience increasingly comes down to leadership judgement rather than technical fixes alone.

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Bigger Pic: After the Gold Shock, Where Now for Investors?

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 09:03:22 +0000

Gold has suffered its sharpest fall in decades, with silver and copper also sliding in a violent reversal that has rattled metals markets. Is this simply a positioning shakeout, or a deeper signal that shifting US rate expectations and a stronger dollar are reshaping the investment landscape? Martin Hennecke, Head of Asia and Middle East Investment Advisory at St. James’s Place, shares what the gold plunge says about real rates, the Fed outlook, and gold’s role in portfolios. We also explore whether today’s earnings picture is masking narrow opportunities, where overlooked value may be emerging beyond big tech and AI.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Work Smart: Why It’s Hard to Say No at Work

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 01:00:00 +0000

Ever said yes at work and regretted it almost immediately? You’re not alone. Research shows we’re wired to agree to requests, even when it costs us focus and energy.

In this episode, we unpack why saying no feels so uncomfortable and why it doesn’t actually make you look difficult. Plus, one simple, research-backed way to stop saying yes automatically.

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Breakfast Bites: Is it OK to take money from your parents as an adult?

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 00:59:39 +0000

Is it really wrong to accept financial help from your parents once you’re a working adult? From housing and cars to childcare and cost-of-living pressures, Audrey and Ryan dive into why parental support is still common in Singapore and globally, and how to think about it without guilt, pride, or blind dependency.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: How Dearborn turned breakfast into a business

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 00:56:16 +0000

Granola may look simple, but building a business around it isn’t. The Breakfast Show invites Christopher Kong, co-founder of Dearborn, to discuss what he’s seeing in modern eating habits, and the realities of running a small-batch food brand in Singapore.

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Companies To Watch: Adidas earnings highlight growing momentum in the sportswear battle

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 00:54:31 +0000

Adidas reported strong earnings with record revenue and rising profits, reinforcing its turnaround momentum. Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down what drove the results, how buybacks signal confidence, and how Adidas currently compares with Nike in the global sportswear race.

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Morning Shot: What Companies Get Wrong in a PR Crisis

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 00:39:38 +0000

When organisations face a reputational crisis, the pressure to respond is immediate but the right response is rarely obvious. Leaders must weigh incomplete information, competing stakeholder expectations and long-term trust, often in real time.

Lars Voedisch, Founder & Group CEO of PRecious Communications, and Meilin Wong, Partner and CEO at Milk & Honey PR join the Breakfast Show to unpack how companies navigate a PR crisis in practice, from the first internal decisions that shape outcomes to how timing, tone and visibility influence public perception.

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Breakfast Bites: Is "digital masculinity" content hurting teenage boys?

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 10:43:34 +0000

Teenage boys are being increasingly exposed to content about "digital masculinity," acording to a recent survey.

This includes posts about fighting, building muscles and making money, resulting in lower self-esteem, loneliness and suppression of feelings.

What can parents do about it?

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey reveal what the experts are saying.

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Asia Currencies in a Shifting Dollar World

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 03:37:44 +0000

Global currency markets begin 2026 with renewed volatility as rate expectations shift and HSBC sees the US dollar entering a softer phase. Joey Chew, Head of Asia FX Research at HSBC, shares which G10 currencies could outperform, how Asian currencies navigate low yields and policy management, what China’s FX stance means for the region, and how the Singapore dollar fits into the picture. The conversation also explores gold’s rising role, asking whether it is acting as a hedge, a currency alternative, or both in today’s uncertain landscape.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Dollars, Data and Deals

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 03:34:45 +0000

Daniel Tan, Portfolio Manager, Grasshopper Asset Management breaks down the Fed’s rate decision, the dollar outlook, and where equities, Asian markets and gold could move next. He looks at how AI spending by tech giants is reshaping opportunities and which sectors and regions are set to outperform.

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Breakfast Quiz: January markets, headlines and a little bit of 'tea'

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 01:15:27 +0000

It’s the last Friday of the month, which means it’s time to put your news knowledge to the test! From market trends to global politics and even a bit of celebrity drama, this quiz wraps up the stories that shaped the month.

Play along with Ryan, Audrey and Emaad and see how closely you’ve been following the headlines!

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Meta’s earnings beat shows why Big Tech advertising still works

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 00:49:16 +0000

Strong revenue growth and profits pushed Meta back into the spotlight. Dan Koh and Ryan Huang look at how advertising, AI investment and scale continue to power Meta’s business, and what could move the stock next.

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Mind Your Business: How luxury hospitality is changing in 2026 and what entrepreneurs can learn

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 00:49:04 +0000

Luxury hospitality is evolving, shaped by shifting guest expectations, cultural relevance, and the need for deeper connection.

On Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show invites William Haandrikman, Managing Director of Fairmont Singapore and Swissôtel The Stamford, as they explore how culture, curation, experience design and people-led delivery are reshaping the industry, and what entrepreneurs across sectors can learn about positioning, relevance and long-term differentiation.

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Morning Shot: AI Is Everywhere — So Why Hasn’t Work Really Changed?

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 00:25:13 +0000

AI tools are now part of everyday work across Asia-Pacific. But while usage has surged, the way organisations operate has been slower to shift. Research from Boston Consulting Group shows that 78 per cent of employees in APAC use AI weekly, yet only about 39 per cent say they spend any of the time saved on more strategic work, suggesting most AI use is still focused on doing the same tasks faster, rather than doing work differently.

Christopher Cai, Co-Head of AngelHack Dev Labs, joins the Breakfast Show to explore why adoption has raced ahead of transformation, how leaders should read AI metrics beyond headline numbers, and what it takes to turn everyday AI use into real business impact as organisations look toward 2026.

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US Markets Wrap: S&P 500 Hits 7,000 as the Fed Stands Firm

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 05:20:43 +0000

The S&P 500 briefly crossed the historic 7,000 mark before pulling back after the Federal Reserve left interest rates unchanged at its January 2026 meeting. With the Fed upgrading its growth outlook while acknowledging inflation remains elevated, Ben Emons, Chief Investment Officer, FedWatch Advisors looks at why policymakers chose to pause and what it signals about the health of the economy. He explores what steady rates mean for consumers and businesses, and how rising political scrutiny of Fed Chair Jerome Powell could influence perceptions of central bank independence.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image: 3D Animation Production Company from Pixabay

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Companies To Watch: ST Engineering shines as contract wins hit record levels

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 01:34:18 +0000

Singapore engineering giant ST Engineering reported record contract wins, reinforcing confidence in its long-term growth outlook.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang explain where the demand is coming from and how it supports future earnings.

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Mind Your Business: Why some gyms survive while other fail in Singapore

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 01:31:54 +0000

With gyms on nearly every corner, Singapore’s fitness industry is one of the toughest to crack.

On Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show invites Benson Poh, Founder, Vigeo Personal Training as he breaks down the behind-the-scenes realities of running Vigeo Personal Training, including upfront investment decisions, ongoing costs, and why personal training can be more sustainable than mass-market gyms in a saturated market.

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Bigger Pic: Understanding "catalytic capital" and its power in health & climate

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 01:09:26 +0000

Venture capital isn’t the only way to scale innovation. We sit down with Ryan Tan, Head of Catalytic Capital for Climate & Health (C3H) at Temasek Trust to unpack catalytic capital, why climate and health must be tackled together, and how startups in Asia can position themselves for this kind of long-term, impact-first investment.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

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Morning Shot: Why Singapore’s Car Leasing Industry Is Under Strain

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 01:08:44 +0000

Singapore’s car leasing sector has seen significant upheaval over the past year, with more than 220 firms shutting down in 2025 alone. As rental companies fold and fleets are repossessed, drivers who rely on leased vehicles for their livelihoods have been left scrambling raising questions about how an industry that benefited from strong demand ended up so exposed.

Kenneth Lee, Honorary Treasurer of the Vehicle Rental Association, and Ng Chee Haw, General Manager at Bolt Car Leasing, join the Breakfast Show to unpack what’s driving the shake-out, from COE volatility and aggressive price competition to debt-fuelled expansion, and what drivers should realistically be watching out for as the sector recalibrates.

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Bigger Pic: Asia’s Capital Surge and the Next Phase of the Market Rally

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 02:52:40 +0000

Risk appetite across Asia is surging, with capital flowing into equities and IPOs at a rapid pace. At the same time, investors are adjusting to a new US trade reality under President Trump, an uneven recovery in China, and growing questions over whether the rally can broaden beyond US technology stocks. Sean Quek, Senior Portfolio Manager of the Paragon SAGE Fund at Paragon Capital Management Singapore, shares what Asia’s deal flows are signalling, how Trump’s tariff policies are reshaping global portfolios, where China’s recovery is gaining traction, along with the key risks markets may be underestimating.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Wall Street Hits New Highs as Big Tech Takes Center Stage

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 01:45:49 +0000

US markets pushed into record territory overnight, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq hitting fresh highs as investors piled back into Big Tech ahead of a crucial earnings wave. While Apple and Microsoft led gains, a sharp sell-off in UnitedHealth dragged the Dow lower, highlighting widening performance gaps across the market. With the Federal Reserve set to deliver its first rate decision of the year and heavyweight earnings from Meta, Microsoft, Tesla, and Apple coming up, Fabien Yip, Market Analyst, IG, breaks down what to watch, how earnings could shape sentiment, and why recent volatility in the dollar, yen, and Aussie dollar matters for global markets.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image: Geralt via Pixabay

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Mind Your Business: Inside the business of Matcha Masta

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 00:54:36 +0000

From café trend to functional wellness staple, matcha is changing, and so is the business behind it.

On Mind Your Business, Matcha Masta founders Tiara Hudyana and Shu-Hui Wee join the Breakfast Show to unpack the thinking behind their functional matcha products, how they source ingredients amid supply constraints, price premium products responsibly, and manage subscriptions and logistics.

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Companies To Watch: MoneyMax in focus as pawnbroker stocks ride the gold rally

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 00:53:45 +0000

As gold prices surge, pawnbrokers are back in the spotlight. Dan Koh and Ryan Huang look at MoneyMax’s recent share price jump, its earnings momentum, and what higher bullion prices mean for its secured lending and retail business.

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Morning Shot: Networking More Effectively in a Digital World

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 00:29:58 +0000

As hiring becomes more competitive and more professional interactions move online, networking has taken on a more central role in how people access opportunities. From LinkedIn outreach to virtual coffee chats, many career and business conversations now happen digitally — often before any formal application, pitch or proposal is made.

Christina Tan, Founder of Sales Symphony (a sales training, coaching and consultancy firm), joins the Breakfast Show to discuss how professionals and business owners can navigate online networking more effectively.

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Morning Shot: Is Singapore Still the Top Relocation Hub in Asia?

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 23:37:13 +0000

Singapore has long been Asia’s default relocation choice, prized for its stability, predictability and business-friendly environment. But as cities like Dubai, Hong Kong and Tokyo sharpen their pitches to global talent, the question is no longer whether Singapore is attractive, but who it is still designed for.

Kay Cheong, Managing Director at The Immigration People, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack how relocation decisions are shifting in 2026 from immigration certainty and tax treatment to lifestyle trade-offs and talent selectivity and what Singapore’s evolving approach signals about its place in Asia over the next decade.

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Breakfast Bites: Love and the 50/50 rule - Who should pay more?

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 23:18:45 +0000

Money can be one of the trickiest topics in any relationship. Our listeners weighed in, and 88% say expenses should be split based on income, not equally.

What does “fair” really mean when one partner earns more? And how much transparency is actually healthy. We talk proportional spending, personal splurges, and where transparency helps — or hurts — relationships.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Will High-Speed Rail really work in Singapore?

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 05:33:44 +0000

TC Chew, APAC Managing Director, Arup the commercial viability of High-Speed Rail for Singapore, drawing on real-time lessons from other regional models in terms of demand, costs and integration.

He also talks about the importance of public-private partnerships to ensure the long-term success of HSR projects.

Produced & Presented by Emaad Akhtar

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US Markets Wrap: Markets at a Crossroads in a Big Earnings Week

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 02:13:16 +0000

US markets kick off a pivotal week on a steady note, with stocks rising as investors weigh fresh political headlines, looming tariff risks and a packed calendar of earnings and central bank decisions. With GDP growth running hot, profit margins at record highs and big tech earnings back in focus, the question is whether this rally can finally broaden beyond AI leaders. Todd Rabold, Investment Management Partner at Callan Family Office, unpacks the strength of the US economy, the outlook for small caps and cyclicals, the pause in the AI trade, the surge in gold and silver, and what markets may be mispricing as the Fed stays on hold and policy uncertainty lingers.

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Breakfast Bites: Is it ever OK to back out of a job offer?

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 00:54:33 +0000

So you’ve accepted a job offer, and then a better one comes along. Congratulations! But what do you do - do you settle, or do you bail on the contract? We break down the etiquette, the ethics, and the real-world consequences of saying ‘thanks, but no thanks’.... without burning bridges!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: What entrepreneurs need to know about cyber threats in 2026

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 00:51:28 +0000

Cybercrime is no longer random or opportunistic. It’s becoming organised, automated, and run like a business.

On Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show is joined by Jonas Walker, Director of Threat Intelligence at Fortinet, to discuss how cybercrime is evolving into a large-scale industry powered by AI and automation, why Asia-Pacific businesses are increasingly targeted, and what entrepreneurs and leaders should focus on to stay resilient in 2026 and beyond.

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Companies To Watch: CSG shares jump 30 percent in blockbuster defence IPO

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 00:42:49 +0000

Czech-based defence group CSG jumped around 30% on its IPO debut, marking one of Europe’s biggest defence listings on record.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down what the company does, why investors piled in, and what the listing says about global defence spending trends.

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Bigger Pic: Politics, the Fed, and Tech Earnings

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 11:40:42 +0000

Global markets start the week in wait-and-see mode as geopolitical headlines, tariff talk, and a pivotal Federal Reserve meeting collide with a heavy slate of tech earnings. Vasu Menon, Managing Director of Investment Strategy at OCBC Bank, discusses shifting market sentiment, what truly matters on the macro calendar, the implications for the US dollar and gold, and what investors should watch as earnings season hits full stride.

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Mind Your Business: Inside the founder journey behind Australia’s first regulated NMN supplier

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 01:19:15 +0000

NMN is one of the most talked-about ingredients in longevity science, but what does it actually do?

On Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show invites Sally Panton, Co-Founder and CEO of Longevity Life Sciences to discuss what NMN is, how it supports NAD+ levels, the business and science behind Longevity Life Sciences, and what the future of healthy ageing looks like across APAC.

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Work Smart: Why Working Longer Isn’t Working

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 01:00:00 +0000

Your brain isn’t built for endless concentration, it naturally cycles through peaks and dips in energy roughly every 90 minutes, a pattern known as ultradian rhythms. When you align your work with these natural focus waves, you can get more done with less strain.

This episode breaks down how these rhythms work and how to structure your day around them for better performance.

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Companies To Watch: Ubisoft tumbles as cancelled games rattle investors

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 00:32:05 +0000

Ubisoft suffered one of the worst selloffs in its history after announcing a sweeping restructuring, cancelling multiple games and cutting guidance.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they discuss how rising development costs and franchise pressure are shaping the company’s outlook.

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Morning Shot: Trump’s Board of Peace and What Singapore Might Weigh

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 00:09:16 +0000

US President Donald Trump’s new Board of Peace has quickly become a point of division among governments, as its mandate appears to stretch beyond Gaza toward a broader role in managing global conflicts. The initiative has reopened questions about how peace-building is organised internationally, and how new US-led frameworks sit alongside the United Nations system.

Ja Ian Chong, Associate Professor of Political Science, National University of Singapore joins the Breakfast Show to examine what is at stake as Singapore weighs its response.

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Breakfast Bites: Gen Z 101 - LOL isn’t funny anymore

Sun, 25 Jan 2026 23:09:19 +0000

Language moves fast, and if you’re a millennial trying to keep up with Gen Z and Gen Alpha, the struggle can be real. Audrey, Ryan and Emaad (try to) break down the latest slang you need to know, plus the latest viral names taking over the “Karen” spot.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Quiz: Greenland's been in the news lately; but how well do you really know it??

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 12:07:46 +0000

Greenland has been in the news cycle of late, but how much do you really know about this autonomous territory?

Play along and find out!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Markets Climb as Geopolitical Fears Ease

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 02:20:29 +0000

Stocks extended their rally as trade tensions with Europe eased, lifting the Dow 300 points and pushing the S&P 500 and Nasdaq higher, fueled by Nvidia, Microsoft, and Meta. David Abella, Director of Investments with GoalVest, discusses rich valuations, tech bubble fears, and potential tariff shocks as well as why there is now a "mountain of worry" ahead in 2026.

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Bigger Pic: Risk Appetite Returns or Just a Relief Bounce

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 01:40:33 +0000

After a rocky start to the week, global markets are finding their footing as US small caps extend a historic winning streak, AI enthusiasm lifts tech stocks, and investors weigh shifting geopolitical and policy signals from Washington to Tokyo. With headlines driving sharp swings in sentiment, Aadil Ebrahim, Group Head of Equities at Klay, discusses what is really powering this rebound, how to think about winners and losers in the AI trade, and how investors can stay positioned in a market that can change by the hour.

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Mind Your Business: “Old people’s medicine” to modern milk tea - The Amacha story

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 01:04:55 +0000

Singapore loves milk tea, but it’s also a place deeply rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show invites Sebastian Ang, Co-founder of Amacha, to discuss why he chose to blend TCM-inspired herbal tea with modern milk tea culture, how Amacha makes herbs palatable and enjoyable, how it positions itself against bubble tea giants, and what aspiring entrepreneurs can learn about differentiation in saturated markets.

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Companies To Watch: Sumitomo Mitsui bond plans trigger selloff in Japanese megabank

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 01:03:16 +0000

Japan’s bond market is back in the spotlight, and Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group is feeling the impact.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down SMFG’s plan to expand its JGB holdings, why bond exposure matters for banks, and how the broader interest-rate shift is reshaping the sector.

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Morning Shot: Can Indie Cinema Make a Comeback in Singapore?

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 00:18:13 +0000

Five months after the sudden closure of The Projector, a familiar team is returning to a familiar space. Filmhouse is set to open at Golden Mile Tower, taking over the former three-screen cinema, retaining its murals, hall names, and much of the spirit that made the venue a cultural fixture for indie film lovers.

But this is more than a reopening story. John Lui, Senior Film Correspondent, Straits TImes joins the Breakfast Show to discuss bigger questions about sustainability, audience support, and whether independent cinemas can still survive amid rising costs and changing viewing habits.

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US Markets Wrap: Wall Street Rebounds & Gold Hits Record Highs

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 05:15:28 +0000

After a rocky start to the week, US stocks surged as President Trump dropped plans for extra tariffs on European nations opposing his Greenland strategy. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq each climbed 1.2%, recovering from their biggest single-day declines since October. Meanwhile, gold extended its rally, surpassing $4,800 an ounce, as investors sought safety amid lingering trade tensions and global uncertainty. Mark Newton, Managing Director & Global Head of Technical Strategy, Fundstrat Global Advisors explores whether gold’s momentum can continue into 2026, as well as where investor flows are rotating to.

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Bigger Pic: How AI is shaping Southeast Asia's property future

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 01:23:57 +0000

Home ownership is still out of reach for millions across Southeast Asia — but technology is starting to change that. Winston Lee, Co-Founder and CEO of MilikiRumah, chats about how his social PropTech company is helping underbanked Indonesians move from renting to owning, and what this could mean for the region’s property landscape.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

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Breakfast Bites: 2026 work trends - would you take a pay cut for more flexibility?

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 01:14:31 +0000

In 2026, employees are rethinking when and how they work, fitting tasks around life instead of life around work. From parents juggling schedules to “workations” on tropical beaches, we explore the rise of microshifting, and why flexibility is now as valuable as pay.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Building a sustainable water business in a crowded global market

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 00:56:47 +0000

Water is one of the most crowded and commoditised categories in the world, yet its modern delivery system is riddled with inefficiencies, waste, and sustainability challenges.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show invites Mike Hecker, Founder & CEO of BE WTR to discuss how BE WTR operates as a premium, circular water business, how it convinces partners to pay for value rather than volume, and what founders can learn from building operationally complex but resilient businesses.

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Companies To Watch: Netflix earnings and what hit shows mean for growth

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 00:52:31 +0000

Netflix’s latest earnings highlight a streaming giant that’s still growing, evolving its ad business, and shaping global entertainment.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down the numbers, what’s driving subscriber trends, and how hit shows continue to support the stock story.

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Morning Shot: Trump Shakes Davos — What Happens Next

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 00:36:39 +0000

The World Economic Forum is underway in Davos, drawing a record number of global leaders and business chiefs at a time of mounting strain in the global economy.

The summit has already been shaped by sharp exchanges over trade, geopolitics and global leadership, from renewed tensions between the United States and its allies, to Europe’s pushback against economic coercion, and China’s effort to position itself as a predictable trading partner amid rising protectionism.

US President Donald Trump’s appearance has dominated proceedings in Davos, with pointed remarks toward allies and shifting positions on trade and geopolitics drawing close scrutiny from markets and policymakers alike.

Singapore is watching closely, following its invitation to join Trump’s proposed Board of Peace as trade and security issues become increasingly intertwined.

Pushan Dutt, Professor of Economics and Political Science at INSEAD, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack what has stood out so far at Davos, how markets and governments are responding, and what the rest of the summit could signal for the global economy and for Singapore’s positioning in the months ahead.

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Breakfast Bites: Wanna burn more calories? Try Nordic walking!

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 05:04:18 +0000

Whether you’re an early riser or a night owl, a simple walk around the neighbourhood or your favourite park is one of the easiest ways to stay active and clear your head.

But add a specific type of trekking stick — known as Nordic walking poles — and that walk could become a full-body workout, helping you burn more calories along the way.

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey break down how Nordic walking works and how it can benefit your overall health.

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo & music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: From Bullion to Barrels - The Global Commodity Outlook

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 03:13:53 +0000

Gold, silver, copper, and oil — all under the microscope. Warren Patterson, Head of Commodities Strategy for APAC, ING shares insights on the forces shaping commodities, the latest geopolitical and supply developments, and the surge in mining M&A as companies race to scale up for future demand.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: How Singapore’s traditional ice cream business really works

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 00:56:05 +0000

Most Singaporeans grew up with the iconic ice cream cart, but few understand the business behind it.

On Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show invites Kenneth Goh, Director of Chip Guan Heng, a third-generation ice cream distributor and wholesaler specialising in traditional ice cream, as he takes them behind the scenes of the ice cream distribution ecosystem and what the future could look like for one of Singapore’s most nostalgic food traditions.

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Companies To Watch: Why Bayer is bucking the European market selloff

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 00:51:40 +0000

While European stocks slide on trade tensions and tariff fears, Bayer shares are moving higher.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang explain the US Supreme Court decision behind the rally, what the Roundup appeal means for long-running cancer lawsuits, and why this legal development could change the company’s outlook.

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Morning Shot: What Happens If EV Charging Becomes a Local Monopoly?

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 00:13:15 +0000

Singapore’s electric vehicle rollout is accelerating, with thousands of new charging points planned over the coming years. But while the network is expanding, EV charging is experienced very locally. Many drivers rely on the same chargers near home, work, or familiar commercial hubs — raising questions about how much choice exists in practice, and what it could mean if charging in certain locations begins to resemble a localised monopoly.

Dr. Goh Kheng Lim, Associate Professor, Newcastle University joins the Breakfast Show to discuss what localised concentration could mean for everyday charging experiences, how competition is felt on the ground, and what listeners should be watching as Singapore’s EV charging landscape continues to evolve.

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Morning Shot: The ERA Censure and Agent Oversight

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 05:53:58 +0000

Singapore’s property agency sector has come into focus after ERA Realty Network was issued a letter of censure by the Council for Estate Agencies over lapses in supervising a suspended salesperson and failures in internal processes. The case has drawn attention to how listing accuracy is monitored, how marketing practices are managed, and how accountability works within large agency networks.

Professor Sing Tien Foo, Provost's Chair Professor in the Department of Real Estate, NUS Business School, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack what this incident reveals about supervision and compliance in practice, how incentives shape agent behaviour, and what this means for buyers and sellers navigating today’s property market.

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Mind Your Business: How to build a strong logistics backbone for your business

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 00:53:11 +0000

Over the past ten years, Singapore’s logistics landscape has undergone rapid transformation, shaped by platform work, e-commerce growth, global uncertainty and increasingly demanding customers.

On Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show invites Alex Lin, Managing Director of Lalamove Singapore to share what it takes to lead through constant change, and how operating in a high-cost, high-expectation market like Singapore has sharpened his approach to leadership and execution.

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Companies To Watch: BMW faces tariff risks as US Europe tensions escalate

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 00:36:13 +0000

BMW has been flagged as one of the European carmakers most exposed to the latest US tariff threat linked to the Greenland dispute.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down how tariffs could hit BMW’s margins, its reliance on global supply chains, and what rising EV competition means for the company’s outlook.

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Breakfast Bites: Business class for kids - The “treat or waste” debate

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 23:42:25 +0000

We all love a good upgrade… but would you pay for business class for your kids? From miles-hacking parents to viral Singapore Airlines TikToks, we unpack (along with listeners who wrote in!) whether splurging on premium seats for children actually makes sense, or if it could actually be a learning lesson.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Bites: Burnt out? Try these 7 global wellness trends in 2026!

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 04:22:13 +0000

The start of a new year is a great time to take stock of your mental health.

You might be feeling burnt out and in need of some deep, nourishing rest.

And sometimes you need look no further than some long-standing traditions which have proven to be an effective way of reconnecting and replenishing those energy stocks.

Emaad and Ryan take you through seven global wellness trends that might be worth a try this year!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Ryan Huang

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo & music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Earnings, AI, and Global Outlook

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 02:48:18 +0000

We break down how markets are shaping up after a short trading week around Martin Luther King Day. Oriano Lizza, Sales Trader at CMC Markets, shares insights on the impact of key Fed speeches, previews the biggest names reporting earnings - including Netflix, Intel, and Johnson & Johnson - and explores what strong results from banks last week signal for investors. We also take a closer look at the Davos agenda, from geopolitical cooperation to AI adoption, and examine China’s GDP data to see whether the world’s second-largest economy still sets the pace for global markets.

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Mind Your Business: Building a relationship-led luxury travel business in an AI-driven world

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 01:01:34 +0000

As AI and digital platforms reshape how travel is planned, can human expertise still compete at the top end of the market?

The Breakfast Show invites Simon Cameron, Founder & CEO, Lightfoot Travel to discuss shifting UHNW travel behaviours, the rise of experience-led and multi-generational travel, why silence and simplicity now command a premium, and what entrepreneurs can learn from building a business that resists commoditisation.

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Work Smart: Why Your To-Do List Keeps Failing You

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 01:00:00 +0000

We all love the satisfaction of ticking off a task, but for many of us, to-do lists just keep growing. Research shows that overloaded lists strain our attention, making it harder to prioritise and follow through.

This episode unpacks why to-do lists often backfire, and shares simple, research-backed ways to finally get things done.

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Companies To Watch: TSMC earnings reignite optimism in the global chip sector

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 00:59:53 +0000

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company has delivered strong earnings and upbeat guidance, helping revive confidence across the semiconductor industry.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang explore the numbers, the guidance and how its outlook is lifting AI and chip-related names globally.

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Morning Shot: US–Iran Tensions and What Comes Next

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 00:16:01 +0000

Tensions between the US and Iran have been building since early January, following weeks of protests inside Iran and repeated warnings from President Donald Trump that Washington could take “strong action” in response to Iran’s crackdown. As the US weighs its options, military assets have been repositioned in the region and diplomatic efforts have been underway among US allies to prevent further escalation. Why should we be paying attention here in Singapore?

Dr. James M. Dorsey, Adjunct Senior Fellow at Nanyang Technological University’s S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies joins the Breakfast Show to unpack what has happened so far, the signals being sent by key players, and the possible paths the situation could take in the days ahead.

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Bigger Pic: AI, Asia, and Building Smarter Portfolios for 2026

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 03:05:11 +0000

2026 presents major opportunities and tougher decisions for investors. AI spending is accelerating, but how do you stay invested while maintaining discipline and a clear line of sight on returns? Market concentration is also near extremes, with just 10 stocks making up around 40% of the S&P 500, raising fresh questions about diversification and risk. Ritesh Ganeriwal, Head of Investment and Advisory at Syfe, shares how to navigate a high-dispersion market, and explores how to build balanced portfolios that blend thematic growth with income and stability for 2026.

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US Markets Wrap: Chips Power the Rebound, AI Optimism Lifts Wall Street

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 03:01:08 +0000

U.S. stocks rebounded after two straight losing sessions, with chipmakers and banks leading the charge. The Dow jumped nearly 300 points, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq both edged higher, though all three benchmarks finished off their intraday highs. Semiconductor stocks surged after Taiwan Semiconductor posted a record quarter and signaled confidence in the AI boom with a big jump in planned 2026 capital spending. Shane Oliver, Chief Economist & Head of Investment Strategy, AMP Capital looks at where investors are shifting their money in the coming months.

Image: Frank Rietsch from Pixabay

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Breakfast Bites: Which of these 6 "money personalities" resonate with you?

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 01:21:17 +0000

What's your relationship with money like? Are you a spender, a saver, an investor, or something else?

One expert, through direct experiences with clients, has formulated what she calls the 6 "money personalities" that exist.

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey dive into the details.

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo & music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Janice Wong on building a house of brands

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 00:56:15 +0000

From 2am:dessertbar to omnichannel confectionery and bean-to-bar chocolate, Janice Wong joins the Breakfast Show to share how she built a house of brands where creativity meets commercial discipline, and what it takes to survive and scale in Singapore’s F&B scene.

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Companies To Watch: Fresnillo rides the silver rally after a meteoric share price surge

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 00:55:48 +0000

Silver has outperformed gold in recent months, and Fresnillo has been one of the biggest beneficiaries.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang unpack the company’s Mexican mining operations, its exposure to global metals markets, and the bull and bear case after the stock’s meteoric rise.

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Morning Shot: Understanding Pritam Singh’s Removal as Leader of the Opposition

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 00:47:18 +0000

Singapore’s political landscape shifted this week following the removal of Pritam Singh as Leader of the Opposition, after Parliament voted that he was unsuitable to continue in the role and Prime Minister Lawrence Wong withdrew the designation. The move marks a significant moment in Singapore’s parliamentary history, with implications for how the Leader of the Opposition role is understood and exercised.

Nicholas Fang, Managing Director of Black Dot Research and former Nominated Member of Parliament, joins the Breakfast Show to examine how the decision came about, what it means for the functioning of Parliament, and how this episode may shape opposition politics in Singapore going forward.

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Breakfast Quiz: Mala, chilli padi, sambal - How well can you take the heat?

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 00:39:40 +0000

We turn up the heat for International Hot and Spicy Food Day! This week’s breakfast show quiz tests your spice knowledge across culture, history and business.

Fom the origins of sambal, wasabi, to the chilli that broke the internet, play along and see how well you really know your spice facts!

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: A property outlook - Going back to the heart(lands)

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 00:59:33 +0000

Prime projects had their moment, but 2026 could be all about the suburbs. As a large majority of new launches are slated to hit the Outside Central Region, Ismail Gafoor, Executive Chairman of PropNex breaks down what buyers and investors should watch for in the year ahead.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

Photo credit: ST Photo

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Companies To Watch: JPMorgan Chase Q4 earnings breakdown and what it means for US banks in 2026

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 00:34:36 +0000

JPMorgan Chase kicks off earnings season with a mixed but solid quarter: EPS beats, revenue growth and strategic expansion into Apple Card, all while facing headwinds in investment banking and regulatory risk.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down what matters most for investors ahead of 2026.

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Morning Shot: The Power, and Damage, of a One-Star Review

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 00:28:06 +0000

As digital platforms continue to shape how people discover and evaluate businesses, online reviews have become an increasingly influential part of everyday decision-making. One-star reviews, in particular, can shape perceptions quickly and publicly, often carrying more weight than many positive experiences combined.

Debbie Yong, F&B industry observer and founder of branding and communications agency, Atypical Media & Dr. Jean Lui, Associate Professor of Psychology, Singapore Institute of Technology join the Breakfast Show to explore why people leave one-star reviews, how other consumers read and react to them, and how businesses might approach negative feedback in an online setting.

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US Markets Wrap: Tech Slumps, Mega-Caps, and Where Risk Is Really Flowing

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 22:43:16 +0000

Stocks slipped for a second straight session as tech and chip stocks pulled back, with Nvidia and Broadcom leading the declines amid Chinese trade restrictions. Despite headline weakness in the S&P 500 and Nasdaq, smaller-cap and commodity-linked assets continue to show strength. Steve Sosnick, Chief Strategist at Interactive Brokers, unpacks whether this is healthy market rotation or a warning sign, explore the structural risks of mega-cap concentration, and examine why earnings beats are no longer enough to move markets. We’ll also look at where investors are taking risk today and what it says about the next phase of the bull market.

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US Markets Wrap: Good Data, Bad Tape - Banks Slide as Policy Noise Rattles Markets”

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 03:12:04 +0000

Markets slipped from record highs as investors sold banks despite JPMorgan’s earnings beat, highlighting growing unease over policy risk and valuation. This episode unpacks why strong results weren’t enough to lift financials, how President Trump’s proposed credit-card rate caps and other interventionist ideas are rattling investors, and what softer core CPI means for the Fed’s rate path. With stocks brushing off geopolitics but reacting sharply to domestic policy noise, Jason Britton, Founder and CIO of Reflection Asset Management, weighs whether this is healthy profit-taking—or an early warning that political risk is being repriced.

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Bigger Pic: Stress-Testing the Future - Saxo’s Outrageous Predictions

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 03:07:29 +0000

What happens when the future doesn’t unfold gradually, but jolts forward in sudden, shocking leaps? Charu Chanana, Chief Investment Strategist, Saxo explores the firm’s Outrageous Predictions for 2026, a set of low probability but high impact scenarios designed to challenge conventional thinking. From quantum computers threatening digital security and artificial intelligence stepping into the CEO’s chair, to pop culture influencing economic behavior and geopolitics testing the global monetary order, this conversation is not about forecasting. It is about widening the lens and preparing for surprises that markets and societies may not yet be pricing in.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: How a sneaker custom artist built a real business

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 00:50:26 +0000

Turning creativity into income isn’t easy, especially when every product is handmade. So what does it take to turn a side hustle into a viable business?

On the Breakfast Show, Billy Chow, founder of Velvethoop Customs, breaks down how he identified a niche in sneaker customisation, priced his work, managed demand, and built a sustainable creative business.

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Companies To Watch: How Google became a $4 trillion company

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 00:50:23 +0000

Alphabet has crossed the $4 trillion mark, overtaking Apple and cementing Google’s place among the world’s most valuable companies.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang unpack the latest stock move, explain why investors are betting big on Google’s AI and cloud ambitions, and discuss whether the market’s optimism is getting ahead of fundamentals.

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Morning Shot: What the US Intervention in Venezuela Means for Smaller States

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 00:35:23 +0000

Singapore has expressed grave concern over the United States’ military intervention in Venezuela, emphasising its commitment to international law and the principles of the UN Charter, particularly the protection of sovereignty and territorial integrity for small states. The response from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs comes amid wider unease across the Asia-Pacific over how major power actions are shaping the global order.

Drew Thompson, Senior Fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS) at Nanyang Technological University joins the Breakfast Show to examine how Singapore’s response should be understood, why events far from the region can carry implications for Asia-Pacific security, and what this moment reveals about the relationship between power, precedent and international law in an increasingly uncertain world.

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Breakfast Bites: Wine, snacks and paying your bills… fancy an “admin night”?

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 23:07:29 +0000

Adulting is hard: from bills to appointments to subscriptions, the mental load is real. Enter Admin Night: a TikTok-fueled trend where friends gather, pour some wine, snack, and tackle life admin together.

We explore how this quirky ritual boosts productivity, saves money, and even makes the dreaded “to-do list” a little more fun.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Want free airport limo rides and best value for lounge access? Try these cards!

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 10:49:15 +0000

Aaron Wong, Founder, The Milelion, discusses easy wins to earn more miles in 2026; why Krisflyer award availability has been hard to come by; credit cards that offer free airport limo rides and those that offer the best value for lounge access.

Produced & Presented by: Emaad Akhtar

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US Markets Wrap: Markets Make New Highs as Politics, Profits and the Fed Collide

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 03:08:51 +0000

US stocks pushed to fresh record highs, shaking off political noise around a DOJ probe into Fed Chair Jerome Powell, but the tension is far from over. Christine Short, Head of Research, TMX Datalinx discusses what strong Q4 earnings momentum means for 2026, and why President Trump’s renewed push to cap credit card fees is unsettling bank stocks. We also look at consumer credit health as a key test of the soft-landing narrative, and why investor confidence in Fed independence may quietly become one of this earnings season’s biggest risks.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Companies To Watch: Capital One under pressure as credit card rate caps enter the debate

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:51:49 +0000

Capital One is under the spotlight after President Donald Trump called for a one-year cap on credit card interest rates at 10%.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang examine how Capital One has reacted in the markets, why this proposal matters more to Capital One than most banks, and how the company has been performing operationally.

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Mind Your Business: How Beekeeping became a platform for sustainable entrepreneurship

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:51:25 +0000

Beekeeping in Singapore has evolved beyond conservation into education, enterprise, and legacy-building.

On Mind Your Business, John Chong, founder of BEE Amazed Garden joins the Breakfast Show to share how his work with universities, premium venues, and regional partners is empowering the next generation to be “BEE entrepreneurial” while building a viable sustainability-driven business.

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Breakfast Bites: Riding the airwaves - The fascinating origins of radio

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:48:50 +0000

Before podcasts, playlists, and streaming, there was radio; the medium that changed the way the world communicated.

Emaad, Ryan & Audrey dive into the stories of invention, innovation, and the magic that made radio the world’s first truly mass medium.

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Morning Shot: Parliament recap - New NMPs, healthcare pressures, and what’s ahead

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:28:04 +0000

Parliament sat yesterday with a packed agenda, from the swearing-in of a new cohort of Nominated MPs to debates on healthcare financing and the review of political salaries. This episode of Morning Shot recaps what stood out from the sitting so far, including what the backgrounds of the new NMPs may add to debates, and the key pressure points raised over upcoming IP rider changes.

With sittings continuing over the next few days, we also look ahead to the debates still to come, including a motion on parliamentary leadership, and what listeners should be watching as proceedings in the House continue. The Breakfast Show is joined by Royston Sim, News Editor at The Straits Times.

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Bigger Pic: Bonds at a Turning Point - Rates, the Dollar, and the Search for Yield

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 12:24:43 +0000

As markets respond to the latest U.S. economic data and expectations for further Fed rate cuts into 2026, the fixed income landscape is shifting alongside a softer U.S. dollar. In this episode, we examine what this means for duration positioning, whether calm corporate credit spreads are masking deeper risks, and why emerging market debt is back in focus. Pierre Chartres, Investment Director, Fixed Income, M&G Investments discusses how structural forces are reshaping fixed income strategies.

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Breakfast Bites: $1K or $10K? Understanding internship pay

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 02:56:33 +0000

Internships aren’t just for fresh grads anymore!

From unpaid roles to eye-watering $10,000-a-month stints, we unpack why internship pay varies so wildly, and whether there’s really a secret formula to landing the big bucks.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo credit: Chng Choong Hiong (ST)

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: How functional beverages became big business

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 01:11:11 +0000

From R&D and ingredient integrity to pricing and scale, building a functional beverage brand isn’t as simple as it looks.

Join the Breakfast Show as they invite John Duprat, Founder & CEO, Alchemy Affair to discuss the business realities behind drinkable wellness, from scaling challenges to staying credible in a crowded market.

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Companies To Watch: Why RTX is at the centre of a defense market tug of war

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 01:07:03 +0000

RTX has been one of the most volatile defense stocks to start 2026, caught between political pressure on dividends and buybacks and renewed optimism around higher U.S. defense spending.

On Companies to Watch, Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down why RTX shares sold off and rebounded in quick succession, how the company has been performing operationally, and what investors should watch next as policy, geopolitics and earnings expectations collide.

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Morning Shot: What Viability Looks Like in Singapore’s Restaurant Scene in 2026

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 00:21:52 +0000

Singapore’s restaurant sector is entering 2026 after a year of elevated churn, with thousands of new outlets opening in 2025 even as a large number shut — particularly among sit-down restaurants operating on thin margins. Rising rents, higher labour and ingredient costs, and more cautious consumer spending have sharpened pressures on mid- to upper-tier establishments, at a time when regional dining competition is also intensifying.

On this episode of Morning Shot, Dr. Guy Llewellyn, Assistant Professor of Hospitality at EHL Hospitality Business School, joins the Breakfast Show to discuss what these pressures mean for Singapore’s restaurant landscape in 2026, and how operators are adapting their concepts and business models to remain viable.

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Breakfast Quiz: See how you fare with some historical money trivia!

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 09:28:55 +0000

It's apt that we talk a lot about money on Money FM 89.3! So why not make some fun out of it?

It's time for historical money-related trivia! Play along and see how you fare!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Rotation & Rates - What’s Next for the Market?

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 03:10:09 +0000

Markets are shifting as investors rotate out of tech and into other sectors. Ben Emons, Chief Investment Officer at FedWatch Advisors, shares what's driving about rate expectations, the impact of oil prices on inflation, and what upcoming jobs data could signal for investors.

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Bigger Pic: Market Rotation 2026 - Strategies Amid Uncertainty

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 02:44:32 +0000

As central banks take different paths and market volatility persists, investors are asking: where should capital flow in 2026? Ray Heung, Senior Investment Strategist at Standard Chartered Bank, shares insights on navigating the evolving landscape - from Fed policy, market positioning to emerging market opportunities, gold, and equities.

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Mind Your Business: What It Took to Make Bike-Sharing Work in Singapore

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 01:11:31 +0000

Bike-sharing is back in Singapore — but this time, it’s smaller, more regulated, and far more operationally demanding. After a chaotic boom-and-bust cycle that saw bikes clutter pavements and operators disappear almost overnight, only a handful of players remain. One of them is Anywheel, now operating around 35,000 bikes across the island.

On this episode of Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show speaks with Htay Aung, Founder and CEO of Anywheel, about how the company survived while rivals folded, what changed to make bike-sharing viable again, and the hard operational realities behind running a hardware-heavy, regulated business.

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Morning Shot: US Strikes Venezuela - What Comes Next?

Fri, 09 Jan 2026 00:51:56 +0000

The United States has carried out its most direct intervention in Latin America in decades, capturing Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in a January 3 strike ordered by Donald Trump. Washington says the operation was aimed at dismantling a “narco state” and restoring democracy. But critics warn the move revives memories of past US interventions and raises urgent questions about sovereignty, legality, and regional stability — especially as the US moves to take control of Venezuelan oil sales as leverage.

Dr. Lincoln Mitchell, Professor at School of International and Public Affairs, Columbia University, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack what this intervention really signals, how oil has become central to US strategy, and what the risks are for Venezuela, and US foreign policy more broadly.

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Breakfast Special: CES 2026 - Reading the Roadmap for Tech and AI

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 06:57:47 +0000

We head inside CES 2026 at Las Vegas, where the world’s biggest tech leaders are unveiling the next phase of artificial intelligence. From Nvidia and AMD’s AI chip race to Lenovo’s vision for personal AI agents, Money Matters' Chua Tian Tian joins us from the show floor with the key announcements, standout gadgets and what they mean for everyday life.

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US Markets Wrap: Gunboat Diplomacy Meets Market Complacency

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 06:33:16 +0000

U.S. markets slipped from fresh all-time highs this week, with financials and energy — two of 2026’s early winners — suddenly losing momentum. Beneath the day-to-day volatility, a bigger question is emerging: are markets being driven by fundamentals, or simply by liquidity? Alex Morris, CEO of F/m Investments, unpack why geopolitics barely registers for investors, whether markets are misreading the risks around inflation and a more political Federal Reserve, and why the much-debated AI “bubble” may still be in its early innings. We also dive into the less obvious inflationary pressures created by the AI build-out and what a “boring but smart” portfolio actually looks like as we head deeper into 2026.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Companies To Watch: From Manila to Wall Street Jollibee’s global expansion push

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 00:40:26 +0000

Jollibee shares surged after news of a potential US listing for its international business, reigniting interest in the company’s global growth story.

Dan Koh and Audrey Siek break down how Jollibee has been performing, why the market is reacting now, and whether a US listing could unlock a new valuation narrative for the Southeast Asian fast-food leader.

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Breakfast Bites: How to reset your finances after all that festive spending

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 00:32:52 +0000

Feeling the pinch after all that festive cheer? From facing the numbers to tackling holiday debt and even trying a no-spend January, we break down simple, practical ways to get your money back on track — and start the year feeling financially in control again!

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Morning Shot: What Leaders Need to Get Right About Employee Growth and Engagement

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 00:20:32 +0000

As organisations head into a new year, many are reflecting on how to keep employees motivated, engaged and committed at work. Questions around growth, development and empowerment often surface in these conversations, particularly as expectations between employers and employees continue to evolve.

Nicole Golloso-Kazemi, Director of Human Resources and Corporate Communications (SG & HK) and Regional DEI Lead (APAC), McCann, joins The Breakfast Show to discuss why employee growth matters from both a business and HR perspective, how leadership behaviour shapes engagement, and what leaders can pay attention to as they support development within their organisations.

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Breakfast Bites: Did you know it's considered bad luck to take a rock from Hawaii??

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 10:04:43 +0000

On Old Rock Day, Emaad, Ryan and Audrey dive into fun facts about the fundamental building blocks of our global landscape — with surprises involving ostriches, Hawaii and plants!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Oil, Inflation and the Venezuela Wildcard

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 08:34:30 +0000

U.S. markets hit fresh all-time highs as investors shrug off geopolitical shocks. Markets barely flinched after U.S. action in Venezuela, but should investors be paying closer attention? Laila Pence, President & Co-Founder, Pence Wealth Management look at why the short-term impact on oil is limited, how increased supply could shape inflation longer term, and what this means for positioning in energy stocks and oil services. We unpack what’s really driving markets to new highs - from blockbuster earnings and tax-driven stimulus to the Federal Reserve’s easing bias.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Bigger Pic: How might a Venezuelan regime change impact global oil markets?

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 03:25:44 +0000

Vishnu Varathan, Head of Macro Research, Asia ex-Japan, Mizuho Securities (Singapore), discusses what a potential Venezuelan regime change could mean for global oil markets; impacts to geopolitical dynamics for the rest of LatAm as well as China, Russia and Iran; the role Saudi Arabia and OPEC may play in calibrating oil supply; and why these developments may provide the USD a marginal petrodollar boost.

Produced & Presented by: Emaad Akhtar

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Bigger Pic: Venezuela's shockwaves - What Singapore investors need to know

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 01:30:49 +0000

We unpack the fallout from the dramatic capture of Venezuela’s president and what it means for markets around the world — and here at home in Singapore.

From oil price dynamics and commodity safe havens, to China’s strategic interests and the implications for regional equities, long-time economist and advisor Song Seng Wun breaks down the key issues for investors, businesses and Singapore’s economic outlook.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

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Companies To Watch: How Nvidia is setting the tone for AI in 2026

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 00:59:25 +0000

As markets open for the first working day of 2026, Nvidia sits at the centre of the global AI story. From surging demand for its H200 chips and fresh talks with TSMC to rising orders from Chinese tech firms and growing debate around valuation, the company has become a barometer for confidence in artificial intelligence spending.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they unpack the latest headlines surrounding NVIDIA, explain why supply constraints now matter as much as demand, and explore what Nvidia’s performance could signal for tech, markets and investor sentiment in the year ahead.

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Mind Your Business: How a 150 year copper art house went global

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 00:58:12 +0000

Why choose copper, and why choose Singapore, for a heritage brand’s first global step?

Join the Breakfast Show as they invite Gao Haotian, Managing Director, ZenBron Singapore to explore ZenBron’s business strategy, the appeal of design-led heritage objects, and the operational realities of bringing intangible cultural heritage craftsmanship to a new market ahead of Chinese New Year.

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Morning Shot: Working Longer — Can Older Workers Keep Up in a Digital Workplace?

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 00:28:33 +0000

With Singapore set to increase its retirement age to 64 by July this year, more older adults are expected to remain active in the workforce for longer, raising important questions about skills, adaptability, and inclusion.

On this episode of Morning Shot, we speak with Tan Wee Liang, Generative AI Alumni, Vertical Institute, who upskilled in generative AI not just for himself, but to better support the seniors he teaches. He shares why access to technology alone isn’t enough, how intergenerational learning can shift mindsets on both sides, and what it really takes to keep older individuals confident, capable, and relevant in an increasingly digital workplace.

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Breakfast Bites: Emergency funds - How much Is enough?

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 00:58:39 +0000

You hope you’ll never need it — but when life throws a curveball, an emergency fund can make all the difference.

In this episode, we break down what an emergency fund really is, how much you should have, where to keep it, and how to build one even if money feels tight.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Why Venezuela’s crisis is putting Chevron back in focus

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 00:30:13 +0000

Geopolitical risk is back in focus for oil markets, following dramatic developments in Venezuela and fresh comments from Donald Trump on the country’s future and its oil resources.

On Companies to Watch, Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar look at how Chevron, the only major U.S. oil producer still operating in Venezuela, has responded so far, why its shares have moved, and what this means for investors.

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Morning Shot: Party rules, Parliament, and political accountability

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 00:26:34 +0000

The Workers’ Party has confirmed it is following up on a request by cadre members to convene a special cadre members’ conference, a rarely used mechanism provided for under the party’s rules. The development comes after WP chief Pritam Singh’s conviction for lying to Parliament’s Committee of Privileges was upheld by the High Court, and ahead of a scheduled parliamentary discussion on leadership implications this month.

On this episode of Morning Shot, Eugene Tan, Associate Professor of Law at Singapore Management University, explains what a special cadre members’ conference is, how such meetings are triggered, and how internal party processes fit within Singapore’s wider political system.

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US Markets Wrap: How energy is powering markets higher despite weak data

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 23:03:57 +0000

Wall Street has returned from the holidays with renewed momentum, pushing major indices to fresh highs even as manufacturing data weakens. Energy stocks are leading the charge following geopolitical developments in Venezuela, while investors weigh the implications for inflation, rates, and global supply.

Dan Koh speaks with José Torres, Senior Economist at Interactive Brokers, about what’s really driving these new market highs, where energy markets could go next, how to read China’s slowing service sector, and the key investing themes to watch as 2026 comes into focus.

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Breakfast Bites: You've had fingerprints since before you were born!

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 04:55:50 +0000

Here's something I bet you don't pay much attention to on a day-to-day basis. Here are a couple of clues - they are used in some notarization processes and known to be unique to each individual.

If you haven't guessed already - we're talking about fingerprints!

Emaad and Audrey reveal some fun facts about our mysterious friends!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Tracking the stock pick challenge as the competition heats up

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 01:09:58 +0000

The stock pick challenge is back for its second edition, and the competition is heating up. We check in on the latest performance and key developments behind this quarter’s picks, Sea Limited, Schlumberger, Pacific Edge, and Wonik Holdings, as we track who’s pulling ahead and what’s been driving each stock.

From Southeast Asia tech and global energy services to healthcare diagnostics and Korean semiconductor equipment, we break down what’s changed and what investors should watch as the challenge unfolds.

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Bigger Pic: Singapore ends 2025 strong, what PMI and GDP say about the global economy in 2026

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 01:09:56 +0000

Singapore wrapped up 2025 with stronger-than-expected growth, as fourth-quarter GDP surprised on the upside and manufacturing activity stayed in expansion territory. But while the data point to resilience at home, global PMI readings suggest uneven growth and weaker confidence heading into 2026.

Dan Koh speaks with Pan Jingyi, Economics Associate Director at S&P Global Market Intelligence, to unpack what Singapore’s latest PMI and GDP numbers really mean, how sustainable the momentum is, and what the global PMI signals tell us about risks and opportunities in the year ahead.

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Mind Your Business: How a Singapore company built a global compact equipment business

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 00:53:38 +0000

When we think of e-commerce, we don’t usually think of heavy machinery. But even compact construction equipment is now being bought and sold online. And it shows how even traditional industries are being reshaped by technology and global trade.

The Breakfast Show invites Dennis Tan, Founder of TYPHON Machinery as they discuss how the business identified gaps in the market, built its product offering, competed against larger brands, and scaled globally through digital channels.

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Bigger Pic: From Surprises to Signals - Positioning Portfolios for 2026

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 02:18:54 +0000

Despite widespread uncertainty, parts of the global economy proved more resilient than expected in 2025. However, big swings in currencies, commodities and China-related assets kept investors on edge. So what lessons should investors carry into 2026? Heng Koon How, Head of Markets Strategy at UOB, discusses what worked last year, where the risks and opportunities lie now, and how everyday investors should think about the US dollar, major currencies, gold, oil and China — plus the three macro indicators that matter most.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Companies To Watch: Crowning the champion of the stock pick challenge

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 01:06:19 +0000

As markets settle into the first trading days of 2026, Dan Koh, Ryan Huang, Audrey Siek & Emaad Akhtar revisit four very different stocks, Spotify, Pop Mart, Pfizer, and Genus. What's changed and how has each been performing?

Join the Breakfast Show on this episode of Companies To Watch as they breakdown the latest headlines, stock moves, key developments shaping each company as the new year begins, and the undisputed champion of this mini competition.

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Breakfast Quiz: 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year! Are you ready?

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 00:02:18 +0000

New year, new you and new headlines!
We look ahead to 2026: we’re just kicking off the new year but already we’re anticipating many events, holidays and upcoming things to note. From sports, to Chinese New Year and Budget 2026, play along at home and let us know how well you do.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Bites: Check out these travel hotspots in 2026!

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 13:48:56 +0000

Still unnsure about travel plans for 2026?

We have you covered! The Straits Times has put together 7 up-and-coming travel hotspots worth a visit in the new year.

Emaad and Audrey summarize the attractiveness of these destinations!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo credit: ST File

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Why more corporate professionals are becoming startup founders

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:53:37 +0000

The startup pipeline in Southeast Asia is changing. Drawing on AngelCentral’s 2025 analysis of startup applications, Shao-Ning Huang, Chief Angel & Partner at AngelCentral joins the Breakfast Show to discuss data-driven insights on mid-career founders, what angel investors look for, and why many corporate professionals struggle in startups.

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Bigger Pic: Singapore banks data centre lending risks and ASEAN banks outlook 2026

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:51:11 +0000

As Southeast Asia positions itself as a global hub for data centres and digital infrastructure, banks are stepping up lending to support the boom. But with growth comes new forms of credit risk.

Dan Koh speaks with Rena Kwok, Senior Credit Analyst, Asian Financials, Bloomberg Intelligence, about Singapore banks’ exposure to data centre loans, whether risks are contained, a look ahead to ASEAN banks’ outlook for 2026, and the impact of currency volatility across the region.

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Breakfast Bites: New year, new you! What are your goals for 2026?

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:31:51 +0000

It's that time of year where we try to eat healthy, quit drinking, and hit the gym! As 2026 knocks on our doors, we look back at the goals we had set for ourselves last year; and find out what and why we fell short. Audrey and Emaad also share tips from experts on how to make your 2026 resolutions stick!

Presented by Audrey Siek & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Can Nike run again after a tough year for the stock?

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:20:55 +0000

Nike is one of the world’s most recognisable brands, but the company is navigating a challenging reset after a period of weak stock performance and uneven growth.

Dan Koh and Audrey Siek unpack Nike’s latest earnings, the pressures on margins, ongoing weakness in China, and what recent insider buying by Apple CEO and Nike board member Tim Cook could signal.

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US Markets Wrap: Selective stock & sector picks may reward you in 2026

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 07:31:34 +0000

Dilin Wu, Research Strategist, Pepperstone shares her market outlook for 2026, including expectations for the AI and tech sectors (other investable opportunities in these spaces apart from stocks); risks that could alter the Fed's policy path; the upside potential for gold and silver; and whether oil prices will remain under pressure.

Produced/Presented: Emaad Akhtar

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Mind Your Business: From music to multi-ventures — building businesses around creative skill

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:58:10 +0000

Music may seem worlds apart from branding, content studios, or operating businesses in China. But for JJ Ong, Multi-Hyphenate and serial entrepreneur, those disciplines are deeply connected.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show explores how JJ’s early years as an independent musician laid the groundwork for his later ventures — from founding branding and content businesses to running cross-border operations in China. JJ shares how creative skills can be translated into scalable business models, the mindset shift from being hired talent to building platforms, and the practical lessons in pricing, risk, and cash management that come with growing multiple ventures.

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Mind Your Business: How to build a profitable creative business in Singapore

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 01:01:46 +0000

Paper art may sound niche, but for Pei Li and Symond, co-founders of PeiPer and PeiPer Arts School, it became the foundation of two profitable businesses.

In this Mind Your Business episode, the Breakfast Show explores how PeiPer evolved from artistic practice into large-scale commissions and an arts school serving hundreds of students, and the steps Pei Li and Symond took to build a sustainable creative enterprise by pairing artistic vision with operational discipline.

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Companies To Watch: Why Silver is shining and what’s driving the record rally

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 00:59:20 +0000

Silver prices have surged to record highs, turning the once-overlooked metal into one of the biggest market stories of the year.

Join Dan Koh and Audrey Siek as they discuss why silver behaves differently from gold, why it can be more volatile, and what everyday investors should watch next as prices push into uncharted territory.

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Breakfast Bites: The true cost of Disney - Are memories worth the price tag?

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 00:57:13 +0000

We all love Disney, right? The rides, the magic, the memories. But for Singaporean families, a Disney holiday can quickly turn into a serious financial decision.

On today’s Breakfast Bites, we break down the real costs, from flights and park tickets to hotels and premier passes, and explore why so many families are willing to stretch their budgets — or even go into debt — to make the dream come true.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Dan Koh

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Dollar Dominance Under Pressure, AI Hype on Trial

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 00:55:00 +0000

The US dollar has anchored the global financial system for decades, but cracks are beginning to show. At the same time, artificial intelligence is driving trillion dollar valuations even as real economy productivity gains remain uncertain. Tom Orlik, Bloomberg's Chief Economist examines what is changing beneath the surface of global markets. We explore why confidence in the dollar is being tested, what credible alternatives could look like, and whether AI investment is running ahead of economic reality.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: AI names & Q3 GDP outperform; high hopes for 'Santa Claus rally'

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 16:27:23 +0000

Fabien Yip, Market Analyst, IG, discusses the AI rally, Q3 GDP outperforming expectations; the current Fed policy trajectory for 2026; a sliding greenback; and a stellar run for precious metals gold and silver.

Produced/Presented: Emaad Akhtar

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Bigger Pic: Stocks, gold and growth signals at the end of 2025

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 01:07:28 +0000

As 2025 draws to a close, markets have delivered strong gains. Global equities are up sharply, Singapore stocks have hit record highs, and gold has surged on geopolitical and rate-cut expectations. But beneath the headline numbers, questions remain about growth, valuations, and what lies ahead in 2026.

Dan Koh speaks with Vasu Menon, Managing Director of Investment Strategy at OCBC Bank, to break down the winners and losers of 2025, the chances of a Santa Claus rally, what US growth figures reveal about the economy, and how investors can prepare their portfolios for risks and opportunities in the year ahead.

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Companies To Watch: Coca Cola’s Christmas test

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 00:51:28 +0000

Christmas and Coca-Cola have long been intertwined, from the iconic red trucks to seasonal packaging and global campaigns. But this year, as the company reports solid third-quarter results and leans into its 2025 holiday campaign, the festive season is also shaping up as a market signal for consumer behaviour.

On Companies to Watch, Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar unpack Coca-Cola’s latest financial performance, how its Christmas marketing is evolving in an age of AI and social media buzz, and what the holiday season reveals about brand power, consumer confidence and spending ahead of 2026.

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Breakfast Bites: Reliving Emaad's 10-hour hair transplant op...4,234 grafts later!

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 09:15:12 +0000

Earlier this month, Emaad decided - after much deliberation - to get a hair transplant done.

The location? Islamabad, Pakistan

The total number of grafts transplanted? 4,234

Tune in as Emaad relives the whole experience, from pre-op fears to being on the operating table to the meticulous aftercare protocols.

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Ryan Huang

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Dan Koh

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Airline stocks to watch in 2026 - Cathay, Cebu Pacific, AirAsia

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 08:53:24 +0000

Shukor Yusof, Founder & Analyst, Endau Analytics discusses the aviation industry outlook for 2026 from the perspective of potential jet fuel price trajectories, forex risks and geopolitical tensions, and how these factors may influence investor sentiment.

Produced and presented by Emaad Akhtar

Photo credit: ST File

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Mind Your Business: How to run a restaurant without high rent

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:58:58 +0000

What happens when you remove rent, large service teams, and foot traffic from the restaurant equation?

In this episode of Mind Your Business, Pristina Mok of Fragment Dining joins the Breakfast Show to discuss how she built a private dining business from her own home, the cost structures, pricing strategy, menu design, customer acquisition, and the trade-offs involved in building a sustainable, hands-on food business.

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Companies To Watch: Can Airbnb capture the spirit of Christmas travel?

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:44:38 +0000

As Christmas approaches, more travellers are choosing getaways and shared homes over traditional hotel stays, putting Airbnb firmly in focus during the peak holiday season.

On Companies to Watch, Dan Koh, Emaad Akhtar, and Ryan Huang look at how holiday travel trends have evolved in recent years, what Christmas demand reveals about consumer spending on experiences versus material gifts, and what investors should watch as the company heads into its most important travel quarter of the year.

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US Markets Wrap: Tech Leads, Valuations Stretch, What’s Next for Markets

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 23:52:40 +0000

U.S. markets climb into a shortened holiday week, led by gains in artificial intelligence stocks like Nvidia, Micron, and Oracle. David Abella, Director of Investments at GoalVest, explains why strong earnings have kept markets resilient in 2025 despite rich valuations, where tech and dividends fit in a portfolio, and what investors should expect as volatility picks up heading into 2026.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Bigger Pic: Cracks in the AI Crown? Nvidia, China’s GPU Push and the Road to 2026

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 03:38:52 +0000

As 2025 draws to a close, markets are navigating a volatile mix of AI disruption, geopolitics and macro uncertainty. China’s GPU challengers MetaX and Moore Threads are raising fresh questions about Nvidia’s long-term dominance, just as the threat of tighter U.S. trade restrictions looms over the chip sector. Add a delayed U.S. GDP report and thin year-end liquidity, and investors are being forced to reassess positioning into the final week of the year. Oriano Lizza, Sales Trader at CMC Markets Singapore, shares his view on tech and AI, near-term market risks, and the key themes shaping investor strategy heading into 2026.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: How technology leaders are rebuilding preventive healthcare

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 00:51:55 +0000

Preventive health is a fast-growing industry in Asia, but one still struggling with fragmented data and unclear guidance.

The Breakfast Show invites Hari V. Krishnan, Co-Founder & CEO of Genie Health, to discuss how lessons from building billion-user tech platforms are now being applied to healthcare, and why successful health innovation requires trust, behaviour design and long-term thinking.

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Morning Shot: How SMEs Can Protect and Grow Their Cash

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 00:48:45 +0000

Cash flow remains the heartbeat of every small business, yet in today’s climate of volatile tariffs, higher operating costs and unpredictable payment cycles, many SMEs are finding it difficult to keep liquidity steady.

According to the 2022 ASEAN SME Transformation Study by UOB, Accenture and Dun & Bradstreet, 82% of business failures are linked to poor cash-flow management, serving as a reminder of how vulnerable SMEs can be when funds are left idle or visibility over cash positions is weak.

Kelvin, Co-founder and Group CEO, Funding Societies and Dennis Poh, Founder and Managing Partner of Legatcy Consulting LLP, join the Breakfast Show to explore what smarter cash management looks like today, from segmenting working capital to using digital treasury tools and short-term instruments, and how SMEs can build stronger financial resilience.

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Companies To Watch: Can Hasbro win Christmas in a digital world?

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 00:48:40 +0000

As Christmas approaches, few companies feel the pressure quite like toy makers, and Hasbro sits right at the centre of the festive season. From Monopoly and Scrabble to Nerf and Transformers, the company’s brands are Christmas staples in households around the world.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang look at what this holiday season could mean for Hasbro, what toy and board-game sales reveal about consumer confidence, and why Christmas can make or break the year for the company.

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US Markets Wrap: The Global Rate Dance - Inflation, Tech, and Central Bank Moves

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 02:07:05 +0000

From Micron’s AI-fueled rally to a surprising CPI reading, markets are recalibrating ahead of 2026. Kyle Rodda, Senior Financial Market Analyst, capital.com discuss the implications for U.S. interest rates, corporate earnings in a challenging consumer landscape, and the evolving policy signals from the ECB, BOE, and BOJ.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Quiz: Christmas trivia, traditions, and tasty tidbits!

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 01:39:00 +0000

Think you know your Christmas history? From why turkey and ham became holiday staples, to the first artificial Christmas trees, festive desserts, and quirky traditions like first-footing in Scotland or mistletoe kisses — this quiz will take you on a whirlwind tour of Christmas around the globe. Play along at home and see how festive-savvy you really are!

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Dan Koh

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: How consumer behaviour is transforming Asia’s frozen food industry

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 01:03:41 +0000

Lamb Weston has supplied fries to restaurants worldwide for decades, but its decision to enter the Singapore retail market marks a major strategic shift.

The Breakfast Show invites Jeevan Dass, Senior Commercial Director for Asia Pacific, Lamb Weston to discuss what this move signals about Asia’s evolving F&B landscape, how consumer expectations are changing, and the innovations shaping the next generation of premium frozen foods.

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Companies To Watch: Could MetaX be China’s next Nvidia after a blockbuster IPO?

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 00:51:34 +0000

Chinese AI chipmaker MetaX made a dramatic market debut this week, with shares surging around sevenfold after a heavily oversubscribed IPO in Shanghai.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang unpack what drove the explosive first-day rally, why China is pushing hard to build domestic AI chip champions, and what investors should watch next as excitement around valuation, execution and long-term competitiveness comes into focus.

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Emerging Enterprise: Redefining nutrition and dignity for an ageing world

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 23:30:00 +0000

With Hong Kong projected to become one of the world’s most rapidly ageing societies, the need for safe, dignified and accessible nutritional care has never been more urgent. This is the gap My-Care Healthcare set out to fill, specialising in medical nutrition for seniors with dysphagia, diabetes and kidney disease, and designing innovative eating utensils that support independence and quality of life.

Their solutions now serve patients across the Greater Bay Area and beyond, anchored by food-factory operations that prioritise waste reduction, lower consumption and sustainability.

On this episode of 2025 OCBC Emerging Enterprise, Francis Ho Ho-tak, Founder of My Care Healthcare and one of this year’s Emerging Enterprise Award winners, shares how his company is redefining patient-centred nutrition, the challenges of scaling impact for an ageing population, and the sustainability commitments driving their next phase of growth.

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US Markets Wrap: AI Shakeout - Oracle Sparks Tech Sell-Off

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 04:57:52 +0000

Stocks fell sharply on Wednesday as investors rotated out of high-flying AI names, triggered by a report that Oracle’s primary investor pulled out of its $10 billion Michigan data center project. Frank Cappelleri, Founder and President, CappThesis weighs in on the tech sell-off, where investors are rotating to, and if there is enough momentum for a Santa rally.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image by Frank Rietsch from Pixabay

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Bigger Pic: How to stay ahead of smarter cyberthreats in APAC

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 01:09:35 +0000

Cyber threats are evolving faster than ever, with attackers targeting the human element and leveraging AI to outsmart businesses.

Gar O’Hara, Senior Director of Sales Engineering at Mimecast, breaks down why Southeast Asia is a hotspot for attacks, and the key moves organisations should make in 2026 to stay secure.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

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Breakfast Bites: Swapping gifts for meaning - How the world is rethinking Christmas

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 01:02:50 +0000

We’re a week out from Christmas, and here’s a question for you — what does the holiday really mean to you?
Because while many of us are busy buying, hosting and spending… there’s a growing movement around the world that’s ditching gifts altogether, and it might just make you rethink Christmas this year!

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Dan Koh

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: The business of turning coffee waste into products

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 00:44:36 +0000

Singapore generates millions of tonnes of waste every year, with food waste among the fastest-growing streams. But what if waste wasn’t the end of the story, but the beginning of a new business model?

The Breakfast Show speaks with Loh Yen Lyng of A1 Environment about how spent coffee grounds are recovered and repurposed into materials, products, and compost, and the commercial realities of making circular economy ideas work.

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Companies To Watch: Can Rheinmetall sustain growth as Ukraine war dynamics evolve?

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 00:19:41 +0000

Rheinmetall has been one of Europe’s standout defence stocks since the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war, but recent diplomatic signals have injected fresh volatility into the sector.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they unpack the latest developments in the war, why European defence spending remains structurally elevated, and what Rheinmetall’s outlook means for investors navigating geopolitics-driven markets.

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Emerging Enterprise: Engineering Asia’s Low-Carbon Future

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 23:30:00 +0000

As industries across Asia confront tightening emissions rules and rising pressure to decarbonise, the demand for cleaner, more efficient environmental solutions has never been greater. That’s where Green Environmental Engineering comes in. From advanced air-pollution control systems to waste-to-energy facilities and proprietary carbon-capture technologies, the company delivers end-to-end solutions that help manufacturers, energy players, and government agencies cut emissions and meet increasingly stringent sustainability standards.

On this episode of the 2025 OCBC Emerging Enterprise series, Eddy Wee, Managing Director of Green Environmental Engineering and one of this year’s Emerging Enterprise Award winners, shares how his company is driving the region’s low-carbon transition, the breakthroughs behind their technology suite, and what it takes to scale environmental innovation across Asia’s rapidly evolving green economy.

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Bigger Pic: From Startups to Shipping - Unlocking Hidden Opportunities

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 15:00:24 +0000

How do you spot opportunities where technology meets traditional industries? Dennis Goh, CEO of Salt Investments has done it in food-tech, fintech, and now maritime. He walks us through the mindset, strategies, and practical lessons behind building ventures that challenge conventional thinking, and explains how Salt Investments is creating transparency, predictability, and long-term growth in the maritime sector.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Bites: All I want for Christmas is… not this song again!

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 00:17:09 +0000

Once December hits, there’s no escaping Christmas music.

Audrey and Ryan count down the most overplayed festive songs and reveal just how much money they make every year.... including why Mariah Carey’s 30-year-old hit still delivers a very merry payday.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: DBS rallies on RMB clearing bank status and regional growth

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 00:15:44 +0000

DBS shares have climbed to fresh all-time highs after the bank was appointed Singapore’s second renminbi clearing bank, strengthening its role in China-ASEAN trade and capital flows.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang unpack why this strategic win matters for DBS’s long-term growth, how it enhances fee-based income and regional competitiveness, and what investors should watch next as capital returns, interest-rate trends and valuation come back into focus.

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Emerging Enterprise: Innovating Everyday Grooming

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 23:30:00 +0000

As personal care evolves from functional tools to lifestyle essentials, Stryv has carved out a distinct space by making premium grooming and beauty devices both accessible and design-led. From hair styling tools to grooming and oral care solutions, the brand has built a loyal following through sleek design, thoughtful pricing, and an omni-channel presence that bridges online convenience with in-store experience across Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong.

On this episode, we speak with Roy Ang, CEO of Evolut Holdings — the company behind the Stryv brand and one of this year’s Emerging Enterprise Award winners — as he shares how Stryv is redefining personal care in Southeast Asia, the lessons learned from scaling a fast-moving consumer brand, and the opportunities they see as they expand into new markets across the region.

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US Markets Wrap: Markets rethink the AI Trade, time to rotate?

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 02:42:45 +0000

Steve Sosnick, Chief Strategist, Interactive Brokers discusses how markets are repricing expectations around the AI trade, as the AI-related names continue to see weakness on the back of Oracle and Broadcom falling short of lofty expectations. He shares if it is now time to rotate out to other sectors.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Companies To Watch: Oracle’s earnings shock and what it means for AI stocks

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 00:34:35 +0000

Oracle is back in focus after its latest earnings update triggered a sharp sell-off in its shares and sent ripples across the broader tech sector.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they unpack what really moved Oracle’s stock, why even strong earners like Broadcom felt the pressure, and what investors should watch next as markets demand proof that AI spending can translate into sustainable profits.

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Emerging Enterprise: Redefining cleaning, one smart robot at a time

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 23:30:00 +0000

With labour shortages and rising hygiene expectations reshaping the facilities management sector, the need for smarter, more efficient cleaning solutions has never been clearer. That’s where Hivebotics steps in. Its AI-driven robotics, including a multifunctional cleaning arm and high-efficiency vapour technology, are designed to take on some of the most demanding tasks in modern facilities, raising cleanliness standards while reducing reliance on manual labour.

On this episode of the 2025 OCBC Emerging Enterprise series, Rishab Patwari, Founder and CEO of Hivebotics and one of this year’s Emerging Enterprise Award winners, shares how his company is redefining facilities management, the challenges behind scaling breakthrough robotics across global markets, and the opportunities they see in shaping the next generation of smart, automated cleaning solutions.

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Breakfast Bites: The true cost of Christmas - how much do you blow on the holidays?

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 23:25:21 +0000

Christmas may warm the heart... but it quietly empties the wallet. From turkeys and hams to Christmas trees, decorations, hosting, travel and stacked celebrations, we break down how much the holidays really cost in Singapore, and why December is such a powerful economic engine.

Audrey and Ryan add up the business of Christmas, and ask whether festive spending is truly worth the price tag.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Dan Koh

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Cooling the AI Fever - Broadcom’s Shock, Global Data Risks, and the Case for Gold

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 02:20:35 +0000

After months of strong gains, the AI-led tech rally is starting to cool, with Broadcom’s sharp post-earnings selloff highlighting growing investor caution around the trade. Phan Vee Leung, CIO of Trackrecord Asia, explores what’s behind the latest pullback in AI-related stocks, the key macro risks ahead—including China’s retail sales data and the European Central Bank’s policy decision—and how investors might position for the days and weeks ahead, including why gold’s strength during the recent equity pullback could signal a move to new highs.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: A DJ turned entrepreneur builds a global snack brand from Singapore

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 00:55:32 +0000

From a processing facility deep in the Amazon rainforest to supermarket shelves in Singapore, Truly Nuts! has built a supply chain unlike any other snack brand.

Gareth Lloyd, Co Founder and CEO of Truly Nuts! joins the Breakfast Show to talk about the evolution of the snacking landscape, the rise of healthier and sustainable choices, and how he’s scaling a mission-driven business that supports rainforest communities while expanding globally.

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Breakfast Bites: Secret Santa - Fun, or stressful?

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 00:49:56 +0000

It’s that time of year again—office Secret Santa season! In Singapore, most employees join in the festive fun, but one in five admit they stress more over the gift exchange than their year-end deadlines.

From quirky global traditions to tips for surviving your manager as a match, we share some fun personal stories and practical ideas to keep the cheer (and sanity) intact!

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Dan Koh

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Can Nintendo catch them all with Pokémon hype after its US$14 billion slide?

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 00:19:40 +0000

Nintendo has been a cultural phenomenon in Japan for decades, and today, that influence is global, powered by franchises like Pokémon, Mario and Zelda. But after hitting highs in August, Nintendo shares have pulled back as investors weigh a potential memory and chip-cost squeeze that could pressure Switch 2 margins.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang on Companies to Watch as they unpack the latest headlines behind the US$14 billion market value drop, the key growth drivers still supporting the Switch 2 cycle, and what investors should look out for ahead of Nintendo’s next results update.

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Emerging Enterprise: Turning Skincare into Self-Expression

Sun, 14 Dec 2025 23:30:00 +0000

As skincare shifts toward products that are not just effective but expressive, Dodo Ventures has tapped into a growing demand for solutions with personality. Their coloured, FDA-approved Dododots pimple patches have turned a once-mundane step in acne care into something fun, confident and collectible — backed by rapid product drops, bold designs and exclusive retail collaborations across Asia-Pacific, the Gulf, North America and Latin America.

On this episode of the 2025 OCBC Emerging Enterprise series, we speak with the co-founders of Dodo Ventures — Ethan Wong, Chief Operating Officer, and Esther Erin, Chief Marketing Officer — whose company is among this year’s Emerging Enterprise Award winners, share how the brand is rewriting the rules of acne care, the challenges of scaling a design-driven skincare company, and where they’re aiming their next big leap.

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Bigger Pic: ASEAN angels reset expectations heading into 2026

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 02:47:18 +0000

AngelCentral’s latest review of its 140-member network reveals how angel investors are reshaping their strategies in a softer 2025 fundraising climate. With startup funding down 21.6 percent year on year, angels are leaning away from high-growth moonshots and toward startups that show quick profitability, real margins and sustainable growth. Yet optimism hasn’t disappeared; seasoned angels remain active, follow-on rounds are gaining traction, and AI startups still draw the strongest interest. Huang Shao-Ning, AngelCentral’s Chief Angel shares what this shift means for founders, where opportunities remain in ASEAN, and how new angels are navigating an investment landscape that rewards discipline over hype.

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US Markets Wrap: AI Fallout and Rate Cuts - Reading the Mixed Market Signals

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 02:35:13 +0000

The U.S. equity markets reached new milestones on Thursday as the Dow surged to a fresh closing high, while the Nasdaq pulled back amid tech-sector jitters. Following the Federal Reserve’s 25-basis-point rate cut, investors rotated out of high-flying AI stocks like Oracle, which tumbled nearly 11% after raising its AI spending forecast, and into cyclical names poised to benefit from economic growth. Jason Britton, Founder & CIO of Reflection Asset Management, breaks down the mixed market signals, explores investor caution around AI capital expenditures, and shares insights on how dip buyers are supporting the S&P 500.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Why algorithmic trading is becoming mainstream

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 00:57:13 +0000

Algorithmic trading used to be something only global banks and hedge funds could access. Today, AI, automation, and faster infrastructure are pushing those capabilities into the hands of smaller funds, family offices, and even advanced retail traders.

On Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show speaks with Emmanuel Raja Singam, the founder & CEO of RoboGenesys, the deep-tech fintech company behind Tradomatix, to unpack the fundamentals of algorithmic trading, why execution matters more than prediction, and how automation is reshaping the way traders operate.

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Breakfast Quiz: Test out your wine IQ ahead of the holidays!

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 00:04:23 +0000

The holidays are here, and we’re pouring a little vino-themed fun into your Friday morning!

Audrey has just started a fine wines course, so naturally, she’s taking you along for the ride with a light, festive wine quiz.

From global wine trivia to Singapore’s sipping habits, test your knowledge and see if you can earn the title of sommelier.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Emerging Enterprise: Transforming Water Treatment for a Greener Economy

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 23:30:00 +0000

With industrial water use rising and environmental standards tightening across the region, the need for cleaner, more sustainable treatment solutions has never been more urgent. That’s where Hydroleap comes in. Its chemical-free, automated technologies are designed to help industries cut waste, improve water efficiency, and reduce their reliance on traditional, resource-intensive methods.

On this episode of the 2025 OCBC Emerging Enterprise series, Mohammad Sherafatmand, Founder and CEO of Hydroleap and one of this year’s Emerging Enterprise Award winners, shares how his company is reimagining industrial water treatment, the breakthroughs driving their rapid growth across Asia-Pacific, and the role they hope to play in accelerating the shift toward a greener, more resource-efficient economy.

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US Markets Wrap: Markets Rally as the Fed Eases - What’s Next for 2026?

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 03:41:28 +0000

The Dow surged more than 490 points after the Federal Reserve delivered its third consecutive rate cut, bringing the federal funds rate to 3.5%-3.75%. The S&P 500 flirted with record highs, and the Nasdaq climbed as traders digested the Fed’s message. What signals are investors reading from Jerome Powell’s remarks, and what does this mean for equity markets heading into 2026? Ben Emons, Chief Investment Officer at FedWatch Advisors, breaks down the market reaction, Fed policy implications, and strategies for the year ahead.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Bigger Pic: Cybersecurity and kids in the digital age

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 01:09:44 +0000

With cyberbullying, malware, and phishing scams hiding in the games our kids love, online safety has never been more urgent.

Adrian Hia, Managing Director for APAC at Kaspersky, breaks down the latest threats targeting young people, how AI is changing the game for both attackers and defenders.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

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Mind Your Business: How a 21-year-old Is helping revive a family retail business in Singapore

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 01:00:26 +0000

A candid TikTok video brought unexpected attention to Tom & Stefanie, a family-run retail business navigating modern challenges.

Founder’s daughter Stefanie Chua joins the Breakfast Show to unpack the pressures facing legacy retailers, and what it means for the next generation to take ownership of a struggling brand.

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Emerging Enterprise: Rethinking Chronic Care with Digital Health Innovation

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 01:00:16 +0000

With chronic diseases rising across the region and healthcare systems under growing strain, the need for more proactive, data-driven patient care has never been more urgent. That’s where Mesh Bio comes in. Its digital health platforms help clinicians spot risks earlier and make more informed decisions, moving care upstream rather than reacting only when complications surface.

On this episode of the 2025 OCBC Emerging Enterprise series, Dr. Andrew Wu, Co-Founder and CEO of Mesh Bio and one of this year’s Emerging Enterprise Award winners, shares how his company is transforming chronic disease management, the realities of scaling health-tech across diverse markets, and the opportunities they see in shaping the future of predictive, precision-driven healthcare.

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Breakfast Bites: The stress of buying gifts - why is it so hard?!

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 00:36:52 +0000

If you’re stressing over what to buy for the people you love, you’re not alone. We break down the surprising science behind why choosing gifts is tougher than it looks — and the simple strategies that actually make it easier. Perfect for anyone still hunting for that “just right” present.

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Mind Your Business: Inside Singapore’s first ultra-fast charging hub for heavy vehicles

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 03:14:53 +0000

Singapore’s EV conversation often centres on passenger cars, but the country’s real electrification challenge lies in vans, trucks, and industrial fleets that keep the economy moving. As demand surges, existing charging infrastructure falls short.

The Breakfast Show speaks to Martin Toh, CEO of Busways, about Singapore’s first ultra-fast charging hub for commercial and heavy-duty vehicles, the tech that makes 180kW to 480kW charging possible, and the entrepreneurial lessons behind building infrastructure ahead of demand.

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Bigger Pic: The AI Opportunity - Stocks, Semiconductors, and Supply Chains

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 02:31:59 +0000

AI is no longer just a buzzword. It is transforming industries, from the chips that power computers to the massive data centres behind the scenes. In this episode, we speak with Aadil Ebrahim, Group Head of Equities at Klay, about the impact of AI on semiconductors, GPU competition, and tech stock opportunities. We explore US-China tech relations, including recent Nvidia chip exports to China, the evolving regulatory landscape, and what retail investors should watch in AI hardware supply chains. He also shares insights on memory and logic chip spending, and whether AI-driven productivity gains are already priced into the market or if there is more upside for investors.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: The Calm Before the Cut - Markets Hold Steady as the Fed Takes Center Stage

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 02:20:03 +0000

Wall Street held steady ahead of the Fed’s final rate decision of the year, with the S&P 500 flat, the Nasdaq inching higher, and the Dow dragged lower by bank-sector weakness. Beneath the calm surface, big forces are shaping 2025 investor strategy, from AI’s massive but delayed physical buildout to the inflationary impact of data center demand and the demographic pressures pushing advanced economies toward automation. Alex Morris, CEO of F/m Investments explains how investors should position across cash, equities, and fixed income as the Fed navigates diverging inflation and labor signals.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Morning Shot: Australia’s Teen Social Media Ban — Could Singapore be next?

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 00:55:56 +0000

Australia is now enforcing a world-first ban on social media accounts for anyone under 16, compelling platforms like Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat to verify ages and remove underage users. The move has sparked a global conversation about online harms, parental responsibility, and how far governments should go in regulating digital spaces for young people.

As countries watch to see what works and what doesn’t, Singapore faces its own questions about balancing youth safety, privacy and practical enforcement.

Professor Gemma Calvert, Neuroscientist and Professor of Marketing at Nanyang Business School, and Deputy Director of NTU’s Centre for Marketing Technologies joins the Breakfast Show to unpack what Australia’s approach signals about the evolving conversation around youth and technology, and what insights other countries may take from this moment

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Breakfast Bites: The words that almost made it to Words of the Year 2025

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 23:59:25 +0000

Not every word gets the crown, but some almost make it!

On today’s Breakfast Bites, we celebrate the underdogs of 2025’s Words of the Year. From Cambridge’s “Vibey,” to the TikTok-inspired gems like “Roman Empire,” we explore the playful, weird, and wonderfully telling words that didn’t quite take the top spot.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Fed Watch and AI Investing ahead of 2026

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 02:51:58 +0000

U.S. stocks pulled back on Monday as investors await the Federal Reserve’s final meeting of the year, with the S&P 500, Nasdaq, and Dow all closing lower. Despite rising optimism for an upcoming rate cut, Treasury yields continued to climb, keeping markets on edge. Todd Rabold, Investment Management Partner, Callan Family Office shares his outlook on economic growth, and the sectors poised to benefit in 2026. Plus, we touch on ongoing tariff debates, tech exports, and which areas of the market could outperform as the new year unfolds.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Building a business around honest nutrition

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 02:08:48 +0000

Most adults in Singapore take supplements, but few can explain what’s actually inside their daily capsules. With confusing labels, vague marketing, and little transparency around sourcing, the wellness aisle has become one of the most opaque corners of consumer health.

In this episode, the Breakfast Show speaks to Joyce Tan, founder of Needful, about why the supplement category needed rethinking, how she built a brand grounded in radical transparency, and what her journey reveals about consumer trust, product design, and building a business with integrity in a crowded market.

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Breakfast Bites: Words of the Year 2025 - We'll try not to 'rage-bait' you with 6-7.

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 00:45:19 +0000

It's the end of the year, so review time is underway! The Breakfast Show breaks down the world’s biggest buzzwords, from Gen Alpha’s favourite “meaningless” catchphrase to the AI-powered future of writing code. Audrey and Ryan try their best to understand all the jargon!

Presented by Audrey Siek and Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Morning Shot: What MOH’s 2026 Insurance Changes Mean for You

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 00:26:28 +0000

With premiums for private health insurance rising sharply and medical bills climbing faster than wages, the Ministry of Health is rolling out major changes to Integrated Shield Plan riders from April 2026. New riders will no longer cover minimum deductibles, co-payment caps will double, and policyholders will take on a larger share of their bills, even as annual premiums are expected to fall by about 30 per cent.

What do these shifts mean for Singaporeans trying to balance affordability with adequate protection? Vincent Gan, Chartered Financial Consultant and Chartered Life Underwriter with 20 years experience in the financial services industry, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack how these reforms may shape everyday decisions around hospital choice, budgeting, and long-term healthcare planning.

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Bigger Pic: Singapore’s PMI Cooldown and the Global Signals That Matter This Week

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 03:17:47 +0000

Singapore’s economy is still expanding, but November’s PMI pullback from 57.4 to 55.4 raises fresh questions about whether this is a healthy reset or the first sign of global pressures. Pan Jingyi, Economics Associate Director at S&P Global Market Intelligence, breaks down what the latest data says about the strength of various sectors and how Singapore compares with a surprisingly strong ASEAN manufacturing landscape. We also look ahead to the week’s biggest global signals, including new PMI readings from the world’s major economies and the upcoming Fed meeting, to understand how external demand, trade flows and financial conditions could shape Singapore’s outlook heading into 2026.

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Mind Your Business: Could co-living be Asia’s next big real estate bet?

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 01:55:56 +0000

Urban living is changing fast, driven by mobile talent, rising rents, and new expectations around flexibility and community. Co-living has moved from niche experiment to mainstream housing solution, and at the forefront is Coliwoo, now Singapore’s first listed co-living company.

The Breakfast Show speaks to Kelvin Lim, Executive Chairman of LHN Group and CEO of Coliwoo, about the future of urban living, the strategic pivot behind the brand’s rapid rise, and the leadership lessons that come from building and listing a new category of real estate.

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Breakfast Bites: Pantone picks… white?! The colour of 2026 is a polarizing one.

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 00:33:54 +0000

Pantone has spoken; and 2026’s Colour of the Year is officially... white. "Cloud Dancer" is here to wash over everything; but is it even a colour?! We break down why Pantone hit reset, what the internet really thinks, whether Pantone is losing its sparkle, and what this all means for brands, trends, and your shopping cart next year.

Presented by Audrey Siek and Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Asia’s Clean Energy Moment - Why APAC Is Charging Ahead

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 02:09:17 +0000

As policy uncertainty in the United States slows investment momentum, Asia Pacific is emerging as one of the world’s most resilient and attractive regions for clean energy deployment. Joost Bergsma, Global Head of Clean Energy at Nuveen Infrastructure, explains why APAC investors are increasing commitments to renewables and how the region is accelerating its energy transition through grid upgrades, large scale solar and wind, and rising power demand from data centres and digitalisation. He also breaks down the impact of supply chain shifts, evolving risk return expectations and the long term policy signals shaping capital allocation across Asia.

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Mind Your Business: Why Asia White Knight is entering F&B now and what it means for Singapore’s dining future

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 01:11:29 +0000

Singapore’s F&B sector is shifting, and Asia White Knight Group believes it’s a transition, not a downturn.

The Breakfast Show speaks with Adam Tan and Ash from White Knight to unpack their investment logic behind the acquisition of Creative Eateries, and what the next generation of dining in Singapore could look like.

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Breakfast Bites: Tired of hoarding your leave? Micro-adventures may be the way to go!

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 01:10:04 +0000

We all have our different styles of how we take vacation. We have those people who save all their leave days for one big blow-out trip, and we have a growing camp of folks who are seeing the benefits of splitting them up into many tiny breaks.

We're seeing the rise of the micro-adventures: the 24 or 48-hour jaunt to a nearby getaway to help us unwind and break routine.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Nov private payrolls fall; Fed rate cut expectation elevated

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 15:03:06 +0000

José Torres, Senior Economist, Interactive Brokers, analyses the unexpected fall in private payrolls numbers for November and the consequential impacts for risk assets and Fed rate cuts; the factors driving the divergence between small-business job cuts and hiring at mid-size and large firms; whether there's any weight to Big Short investor Michael Burry's comments about the AI market bubble unwinding within the next two years; and how investors should position themselves in the current environment.

Produced & Presented by Emaad Akhtar

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Breakfast Quiz: December trivia featuring birthstones, festive plants and more!

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 12:06:29 +0000

This week’s Breakfast Quiz is all about December — from birthstones to festive plants and iconic moments from history.

Join Emaad and Audrey and see how well you know the final month of the year!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: How a start-up turned a slow manual process into a regional marketplace

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 01:13:29 +0000

Construction tech is exploding across Southeast Asia, and even heavy equipment rental is finally going digital.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show speaks with Antbuildz founder Kek Hean Hooi on what it takes to modernise a traditional industry, and the entrepreneurial lessons behind building Southeast Asia’s largest equipment rental marketplace.

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Bigger Pic: What's the next "Digital Frontier" in finance today?

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 00:41:06 +0000

Southeast Asia’s digital economy is set to hit US$1 trillion by 2030 — and could go even higher if advanced technologies scale fast.

Winnie Yap, HSBC’s Head of Global Payment Solutions, unpacks the innovations driving this growth, from programmable money to AI in corporate treasury, and shares what businesses should be experimenting with today to stay ahead in the decade ahead.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

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Breakfast Bites: Chicken glasses, glowing tires and other weird historical inventions!

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 08:50:12 +0000

If you ever needed proof that human creativity knows no limits, look no further than the world’s weirdest inventions.

Join Emaad and Ryan as they unpack some of the most delightfully odd creations ever to exist!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Ryan Huang

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Trade Tensions, Data Gaps and the Race for AI Leadership

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 02:29:34 +0000

Asian markets are navigating a mix of US China trade friction, shifting policy signals from Beijing and a fast intensifying global AI race. Uday Vikram, co-CIO of Klay Group breaks down how these crosscurrents are shaping equity leadership across the region. He looks at how China’s move to withhold private home sales data affects investor confidence, where the next wave of AI driven performance may come from and what hedging or diversification strategies matter most in a year marked by uncertainty.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Why cars sit idle 95 percent of the time and what it reveals about driver behaviour

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 01:11:03 +0000

COE prices remain high, commuter routines are changing, and cars now sit idle 95% of the time, all of which are reshaping how Singaporeans think about mobility.

On Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show brings back GetGo & ZipZap CEO Toh Ting Feng to break down the behavioural shifts he’s observed since ZipZap’s launch and what that means for car access vs ownership, and what entrepreneurs can learn from these shifts when building in a high-cost, high-expectation market.

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Morning Shot: Rethinking What It Means to Be Hireable Today

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 01:07:53 +0000

Singapore’s hiring landscape is evolving, from shifting skill demands to new technologies influencing how employers find and evaluate talent. As job searches become more complex, professionals are reassessing how they present their strengths, build visibility, and make strategic choices about their careers.

Angel Kilian, Career Strategist and Founder of Career inFocus, joins the Breakfast Show to explore how the idea of being “hireable” is changing, and what these shifts reveal about the future of work going into 2026.

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Breakfast Bites: Biohacking trends - science or hype?

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 00:37:01 +0000

Could you freeze your age if you could? From cold plunges to NAD⁺ IV drips, biohacking is all the rage—but what actually works?

Audrey, Emaad and Ryan break down the global trends, what Singaporeans are trying, and which biohacks are backed by science (and which are just hype).

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Is Changi on track to surpass pre-Covid highs?

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 06:02:15 +0000

Brendan Sobie, Independent Analyst & Consultant, Sobie Aviation, analyses overall passenger traffic at Changi Airport this year; performance of the outbound segment compared to inbound and transit; popular outbound destinations; and overall expectations for 2026.

Presented & Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Photo: ST File

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US Markets Wrap: Dip or Danger - What December’s Sell-off Really Signals

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 03:50:01 +0000

Stocks stumbled as December opened, with a sharp drop in Bitcoin dragging risk sentiment lower.
Christine Short, Vice President of Research, Wall Street Horizon discusses what this bout of volatility really means. We explore whether the pullback marks a brief pause in the broader bull run or hints at deeper pressure on growth assets, why rising yields are clashing with expectations for Fed rate cuts, and how weakening manufacturing data fits into the macro picture. She also breaks down the surprising strength of holiday spending despite record-low consumer sentiment and highlights the key inflation and jobs data in the weeks ahead that will determine whether this downturn becomes a buying opportunity or the start of a broader correction.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image: Gino Crescoli from Pixabay

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Morning Shot: Why Young Buyers Are Rethinking HDB vs Condo

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 01:27:33 +0000

Resale HDB flats crossing the million-dollar mark were once rare outliers but for younger buyers today, they’re becoming a genuine part of the search. As price gaps narrow between larger resale flats and smaller new condo units, more first-timers are asking whether private property now makes better sense, or if public housing still offers the stronger long-term value.

Nicholas Mak, Chief Research Officer at mogul.sg joins the Breakfast Show to unpack what’s driving this shift, how consumer psychology shapes perception of the “million-dollar threshold”, and the trade-offs young couples face as they weigh space, lifestyle, and future needs. We also explore whether renting is increasingly becoming a viable strategic option in today’s market.

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Mind Your Business: Lessons from a 30-year F&B veteran

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 01:16:21 +0000

From taking over her family’s sauce business at 21 to building Singapore’s first hot-food vending machine café, JR Group CEO Jocelyn Chng has witnessed every phase of the F&B industry.

She joins the Breakfast Show to discuss consumer shifts, automation, scalability, and how to future-proof food businesses in a landscape defined by disruption.

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Breakfast Bites: Kids acting up? Try these parenting hacks

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 08:11:25 +0000

Parenting can be tough even at the best of times.

Yes, kids bring plenty of joy, but they also come with their fair share of everyday challenges: half-eaten meals, struggles with bedtime and early-morning wake-ups, screen-time negotiations...the list goes on.

Luckily, many parents have been through the same struggles — and some have been kind enough to share some tricks that actually work.

Emaad and Ryan dive into a few of these real-life parenting hacks. Who knows — they might just make your day a little easier too!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Ryan Huang

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

ST Photo: Gin Tay

Music credit: Unsplash & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: How two founders built a 70-machine Kopi network in just one year

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 03:23:27 +0000

What happens when two kopi lovers try to solve the problem of inconsistent, increasingly expensive kopi? They build a vending-machine kopi business now serving over 250,000 cups.

The Breakfast Show invites Leow Jun Heng & Loh Jian Yuan, Founders, Kopi Near Me to discuss the taste science behind their kopi, their strategic location decisions, and the biggest lessons in scaling an asset-heavy F&B model in Singapore.

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Morning Shot: What Can Workers Do When Companies Shut Overnight?

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:31:10 +0000

Singapore has seen a string of abrupt business closures — from Art Works to Twelve Cupcakes and Jollibean — leaving employees suddenly jobless and owed unpaid wages. These incidents highlight a recurring gap: when companies collapse without warning, what real protections do workers have, and what immediate steps can they take to safeguard themselves?

Krist Boo, Senior Business Correspondent at the Straits Times & Ian Lim, Partner, TSMP Law Corporation and head of TSMP’s Employment & Labour team, join the Breakfast Show to unpack how current laws work, what recourse workers actually have, and the practical actions employees should take the moment a closure is announced.

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US Markets Wrap: Rally or Reality Check - Positioning for the Year-End Market Push

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 03:26:46 +0000

As markets eye a potential year-end grind higher, driven by rising confidence in coming rate cuts, Shane Oliver, Chief Economist & Head of Investment Strategy, AMP Capital unpacks what this shifting macro backdrop really means for investors. The conversation dives into the rotation toward healthcare and consumer names and why these sectors are seeing renewed attention as growth broadens out. We also tackle the big question on many portfolios: what should investors do if they are still heavily weighted in mega-cap tech?

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Mind Your Business: Could digital therapy be Asia’s next big health opportunity?

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 02:25:31 +0000

Across Southeast Asia, access to basic rehabilitation remains uneven, care is expensive, specialists are scarce, and long-term recovery often relies on patients managing alone. At the same time, digital health has accelerated, opening new opportunities for more flexible and affordable models of care.

The Breakfast Show speaks to Louis Payet, Founder of Peach Health Asia, about why the region is primed for evidence-based digital therapy, why he left a 15-year pharmaceutical career to build a more accessible model, and what entrepreneurs can learn from navigating regulation, trust, behaviour change, and commercialisation in one of the most complex sectors of the economy.

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Breakfast Quiz: Blackpink in our area - Take the ultimate K-Pop business quiz!

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 00:02:16 +0000

Blackpink is taking over Singapore with three sold-out National Stadium nights — so we’re celebrating with a fast-paced, banter-filled quiz all about their music, money moves, and massive global influence. Test your Blackpink knowledge and see if you can keep up with the Blinks!

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Bites: Singapore's favourite office buzzwords...can you relate?

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 10:46:20 +0000

"I don't have the bandwidth for this right now. Let me circle back and see what I can bring to the table in due course."

If you work in an office, that sentence probably hits a little too close to home. Corporate jargon is everywhere — some of it useful, some of it… less so.

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey unpack the most commonly used phrases in Singapore’s workplaces, including - according to survey responses - the most and least annoying ones!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Unsplash & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: AI Momentum, Market Breadth & the Gold Tailwind

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 04:07:40 +0000

Phan Vee Leung, CIO of TrackRecord unpacks the market’s fourth straight day of gains as the Dow, S&P 500 and Nasdaq all push higher ahead of the Thanksgiving break. Tech once again steals the spotlight, with Oracle rallying on renewed bullish conviction, Nvidia rebounding from its recent dip, and Microsoft extending its climb - fueling a broader narrative around AI-driven market strength. He also explores the steady uptrend in gold and what it signals for investors navigating an evolving macro landscape.

Image: Pexels from Pixabay

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Morning Shot: Key Takeaways from COP30 in Brazil

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 02:07:59 +0000

COP30 wrapped up in Belém, Brazil last week, concluding two weeks of negotiations aimed at charting the next phase of global climate action. Countries ultimately agreed on a deal that captures both areas of progress and the deep divides that shaped this year’s talks. From the push to triple adaptation finance by 2035, to the absence of a fossil fuel roadmap, to developments on forests, methane and climate finance, the summit delivered a mix of breakthroughs and difficult compromises.

Ang Qing, Correspondent at The Straits Times who was on the ground at COP30, joins the Breakfast Show to break down the key takeaways and what they mean for Singapore

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Mind Your Business: What APEC CEOs are preparing for in 2025

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 01:40:57 +0000

From AI adoption to supply chain shifts and rising sustainability investments, CEOs across Asia Pacific are reshaping their strategies for 2026. Deloitte’s first APEC CEO Survey uncovers what leaders are confident about, cautious of, and preparing to take on next.

On Mind Your Business, The Breakfast Show speaks with Indranil Roy, CEO Program Leader, Deloitte Southeast Asia to unpack the findings, and what they mean for entrepreneurs planning growth in an uncertain environment.

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Bigger Pic: Building the Future - How innovation is transforming our construction sites

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 01:13:38 +0000

Singapore’s construction sector faces safety risks and a heavy reliance on migrant labour, but innovation is stepping in to change the game.

Join us as Jash Mota, Founder and CEO of Flywheel AI, explains how tele-operated excavators and AI innovations are making worksites safer, boosting efficiency, and reshaping the workforce.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

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Bigger Picture: SIA's 2026 fleet overhaul - anticipated but long overdue

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 11:27:25 +0000

Recently, Singapore Airlines offered a first glimpse of the major hardware and software upgrades it plans to roll out in 2026.

From retrofitted aircraft and faster in-flight connectivity to next-generation cabin products, the carrier is betting on a wave of enhancements to stay competitive as global rivals modernise at speed.

Aaron Wong, Founder of The Milelion, joins us to unpack why these upgrades are overdue, how transformative they may be for passengers, and what SIA must do to keep pace with rapidly rising competition from Middle Eastern airlines.

Produced & Presented by Emaad Akhtar

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US Markets Wrap: Markets Bounce Back - Fed, AI, and Year-End Opportunities

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 02:27:24 +0000

U.S. markets staged a strong turnaround on Tuesday, as traders digested expectations of a December Fed rate cut and the evolving AI trade. Laila Pence, President of Pence Wealth Management, shares her perspective on what drove the latest market session, why she remains positive despite headline volatility, and what investors should watch as 2025 draws to a close.

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Mind Your Business: How a chef turned butter into a brand

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 01:06:48 +0000

Flavour is becoming the new frontier of entrepreneurship. As Singapore’s food scene evolves, a new wave of makers is redefining what comfort food means, from condiments to even butter.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, The Breakfast Show invite Ryan Foo, Founder, Meraki Butters to explore how his homegrown brand is blending Asian flavours like Szechuan Mala, Yuzu Kosho, and Salted Egg Yolk into a business built on culture, craft, and creativity.

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Morning Shot: How Community Care Is Evolving in an Ageing Singapore

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 00:58:45 +0000

Singapore’s ageing population is reshaping what recovery looks like after a hospital stay, with community care taking on a larger role in helping patients regain confidence closer to home. St. Andrew’s Community Hospital is opening a new facility in Bedok featuring real-world rehabilitation spaces, dementia-inclusive design, and tech-enabled care to support safer, smoother transitions back to daily life.

Dr. Angel Lee, Medical Director of St. Andrews Community Hospital joins the Breakfast Show how community hospitals fit into Singapore’s wider care pathway and what this next phase of community care means for patients, caregivers, and the heartland communities they return to.

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Breakfast Bites: My kid said a bad word. Whose fault is it, and what do I do?

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 00:46:05 +0000

We dive into every parent’s nightmare today: the moment your sweet, innocent child drops a perfectly-pronounced naughty word. This has recently happened to Audrey, who dug deep into research on how she can deal with this.

Where are kids picking this stuff up, and can parents realistically control it?

Audrey, Ryan and Emaad unpack the playground influence, expert advice, and how to guide kids without losing your cool.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Bites: The "Dream Ball" lottery and other unique employee benefits

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 10:12:46 +0000

There aren’t many employees who’d turn down a good workplace perk — especially if it’s the deciding factor between staying put or jumping ship.

We all know the usual benefits: health insurance, paid leave, retirement plans, parental leave…pretty par for the course.

But on this edition of Breakfast Bites, Emaad, Ryan and Audrey uncover some unexpected workplace benefits that may be new to you — and which you might secretly wish your company offered.

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Bridging Markets - Singapore Meets Nasdaq

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 02:15:04 +0000

Singapore is about to open a new gateway for capital markets with the SGX‑Nasdaq dual-listing bridge, set for mid-2026. This pioneering initiative allows companies to tap both U.S. and Singapore investors simultaneously, offering a potential boost to liquidity, valuation, and investor access.
James Leong, CEO of Grasshopper Asia, unpacks what the bridge could mean for Singapore’s equities market: which sectors are likely to benefit, how dual listings may influence global investor participation, and the role of sovereign wealth funds. We also explore the potential impact on price discovery, volatility, and retail investor access, and whether this marks a turning point in Singapore’s quest to reclaim its position as a hub for growth companies.

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US Markets Wrap: AI Rally or Holiday Relief? Markets Bounce Back

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 02:08:51 +0000

Stocks surged Monday, led by tech giants like Alphabet, as markets recovered from a shaky start to November. The Nasdaq posted its biggest gain since May, fueled by renewed optimism in AI, from Google’s Gemini 3 upgrade to strong moves in Broadcom, Micron, AMD, and Palantir. Ryan Detrick, Chief Market Strategist at Carson Group, breaks down whether this rally signals renewed conviction in the AI trade or is simply a relief bounce, explores how shifting Fed rate expectations are influencing sentiment, and weighs the risks of volatility during thin holiday trading. Plus, he previews key economic data this week, including retail sales and producer prices, and what it could mean for the market heading into December.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image: Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

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Mind Your Business: Butter, belacan, and the business of reinvention

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 01:04:25 +0000

Every dish tells a story, and sometimes, that story begins with a spoon.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, The Breakfast Show speaks to Ilya Nur Fadhly, Founder, Sudu, about his journey from MasterChef Singapore to building a brand that celebrates Malay heritage through flavours like Smoked Sambal, Belacan, and Kulim Butter, and what it takes to run a creative food business today

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Companies To Watch: Cloudflare’s global failure and the test of investors’ confidence

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 22:47:06 +0000

A single Cloudflare glitch triggered global outages across X, Spotify, ChatGPT and major services, exposing just how much of the internet depends on one company.

Dan Koh, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar unpack what went wrong, how Cloudflare powers 20% of global web traffic, and why this incident matters for tech investors, businesses and everyday users.

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Mind Your Business: Building a tropical brand in a tough F&B climate

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 00:47:38 +0000

Singapore’s F&B scene is more competitive than ever, with closures hitting record highs. But for some founders, the solution isn’t scaling fast, it’s going deeper into purpose.

This week on Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show speaks to Surekha Yadav, co-founder of Jungle Kitchen, about how her personal transformation inspired a business rooted in clean-label values, why sourcing and provenance matter more than ever, and what it really takes to sustain a purpose-driven food brand in one of the toughest consumer markets in Asia.

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Breakfast Bites: Do you love your job, or do you follow the paycheck?

Sun, 23 Nov 2025 23:41:23 +0000

A viral clip of a woman saying, "don't love your job... job your love" has cast some questions on what that actually means. We’ve all heard “follow your passion”… but is that still realistic?

Audrey, Ryan and Emaad unpack the viral “job your love” moment, why loving your job may actually be an elitist expectation, and what really matters to workers here—like belonging, growth, and yes, getting paid.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Singapore’s growth surprise - what’s next for 2026?

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 03:00:07 +0000

Singapore’s economy has exceeded expectations, with MTI upgrading its 2025 GDP forecast to around 4.0% after a strong Q3 performance led by manufacturing, wholesale trade, and finance. Barnabas Gan, Group Chief Economist & Head, Market Research, RHB Bank breaks down the key drivers behind this growth, the role of AI-related electronics and biomedical manufacturing, and what lies ahead for 2026 as global trade faces new headwinds.

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Companies To Watch: Prada’s next move and the future of Italian luxury

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 00:27:44 +0000

Prada’s sales are rising, Miu Miu is surging, and Versace has just joined the family. But what’s really behind the renewed talk of a potential Milan listing?

Dan Koh and Audrey Siek break down the numbers, the strategy, and the succession story inside one of fashion’s most influential houses, and what investors should watch in the shifting luxury landscape.

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US Markets Wrap: Nvidia’s Rollercoaster and the Fed Dilemma

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 00:00:29 +0000

Stocks fell on Thursday after a market-wide rally fizzled, with Nvidia’s early gains reversing and investor hopes for a December Fed rate cut fading. The Dow dropped 387 points, the S&P 500 shed 1.6%, and the Nasdaq fell 2.2%, despite a midday surge. Frank Cappelleri, Founder and President, CappThesis discusses Nvidia’s surprising reversal, the ripple effects on the broader market, and whether the chip giant is a buy amid AI hype. We also dissect the latest jobs data, Walmart’s earnings, and Ray Dalio’s warning signs of a potential market bubble.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Bites: “Fake It Till You Make It” - Does this actually work?

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 23:31:38 +0000

Ever nodded along in a meeting because someone sounded super confident… but weren’t sure the numbers actually backed them up?

Audrey and Ryan unpack what’s called the “confidence language trap” — why the loudest voice often wins, why our quieter colleagues can hold real insight, and how to make sure style doesn’t beat substance at work.

Presented by Audrey Siek and Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Dan Koh

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Quiz: How well do Ryan and Audrey know Emaad?

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 04:46:12 +0000

On today's Quiz, we celebrate Emaad's birthday in style, as he tests how well Ryan and Audrey really know him through a series of questions around fears, pet peeves, habits, cuisines, travel and more!

Play along!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang and Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Tech’s Comeback Amid Gold and Bitcoin Pressure

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 01:41:14 +0000

Tech stocks regain momentum ahead of Nvidia’s report card (and climb higher on its earnings beat after hours) and Alphabet hits fresh highs with its Gemini 3 launch. Dilin Wu, Research Strategist, Pepperstone explains why the AI rally differs from the dot-com era, and whether investors should wait before buying dips. We also look at gold holding near the 4,000 level as shifting Fed expectations weigh on sentiment, and we review the drivers behind Bitcoin’s recent sell-off.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Bigger Pic: How INSEAD is shaping new leaders as its Asia Campus turns 25

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 01:10:12 +0000

Singapore’s INSEAD Asia Campus has just celebrated 25 years of leadership, innovation, and global collaboration.

Sameer Hasija, Dean of INSEAD Asia Campus, shares insights from the Tech Venture Summit, how emerging technologies are reshaping education and entrepreneurship, and how the school is preparing leaders to thrive in a fast-changing, innovation-driven world.

Produced and Presented by Audrey Siek

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Mind Your Business: What Southeast Asia’s new wave of entrepreneurs can teach us

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 00:52:31 +0000

Entrepreneurship in Singapore is changing. Funding is tighter, competition sharper, and the need for clarity greater than ever. So what does it take to build a business that lasts?

The Breakfast Show invites Megha Singh, Founder of Megha Singh Consultancy and CEO of Launchpad as she shares lessons from her journey across corporate leadership and entrepreneurship, revealing how clarity, confidence, and collaboration can reshape the way founders grow.

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Companies To Watch: What NVIDIA’s US$57 billion quarter tells us about the future of AI

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 00:19:54 +0000

NVIDIA just reported another massive quarter, with US$57 billion in revenue and explosive data-centre growth, even as tech stocks fall on fears of an AI bubble.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down NVIDIA’s latest earnings, the risks behind the recent tech selloff, and whether GPU demand can keep driving the AI supercycle.

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Bigger Pic: Crowded Trades and Thin Margins

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 06:13:19 +0000

Investor positioning has shifted rapidly, with the latest Bank of America Global Fund Manager Survey showing cash levels falling to 3.7 percent — a threshold often viewed as a warning sign that markets may be running hotter than fundamentals justify. At the same time, conviction has become heavily concentrated, with more than half of fund managers calling the “Magnificent 7” the most crowded trade in global markets. Vasu Menon, Managing Director of Investment Strategy at OCBC Bank, unpacks what this mix of optimism, concentration, and rate-cut dependency means for investors.

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Breakfast Bites: Did you know that you can't flush toilet paper in Greece & Turkey?

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 05:51:11 +0000

It’s World Toilet Day — yes, that’s a real thing, and yes, we’re absolutely celebrating it.

On this edition of Breakfast Bites, Emaad, Ryan and Audrey dive into the fascinating world of bathroom etiquette across cultures and the endless lingo we’ve invented for the place we all visit multiple times a day!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Protecting reputation in the age of cyber threats

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 05:09:39 +0000

A cyber breach isn’t just an IT problem, it’s a business crisis. With global cyberattacks on the rise, leaders are learning that poor communication can erode stakeholder trust faster than the breach itself.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show speaks to Dan La Russo, Senior Partner at Penta, about the new realities of cyber risk, why leadership and communication matter more than ever, and how companies can prepare before the next crisis strikes.

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Companies To Watch: Buffett’s big Google bet and inside Alphabet’s first US$100 billion quarter

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 00:41:39 +0000

Warren Buffett has famously avoided high-growth tech, at least until now.

With Berkshire Hathaway taking a major stake in Alphabet, Dan Koh and Ryan Huang explore why the world’s most famous value investor finally sees Google as a long-term compounder, and how its latest Q3 results reveal a company transforming into an AI-cloud powerhouse.

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Morning Shot: Hiring Smart — How SMEs Can Build Strong Teams on Lean Resources

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 00:17:33 +0000

Hiring is one of the most important and most difficult decisions any leader can make. Beyond qualifications, the right hire can depend on cultural fit, growth potential, and even timing. For SMEs, the challenge is even sharper, every role matters, and resources to recruit, train, and retain talent are often limited.

Eugene Goh, Advisor and Co-Founder of TalentKraft joins the Breakfast Show to unpack how SMEs can approach hiring more strategically, and what effective talent decisions look like in resource-constrained environments.

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US Markets Wrap: AI at a Crossroads

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 00:03:24 +0000

Wall Street’s hottest trades are cooling. Stocks fell again as AI-linked names continued to retreat, bitcoin flashed weaker risk appetite, and a Cloudflare outage reminded investors how vulnerable the digital ecosystem can be. Investors are now questioning whether the AI momentum trade is losing steam. Steve Sosnick, Chief Strategist, Interactive Brokers discusses whether this is a temporary pullback or an early shift in market sentiment as we head toward key earnings from Nvidia and Walmart along with an overdue Payrolls report.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Bigger Pic: SG travel trends 2026 - expect more road & "relationship test" trips

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 05:19:14 +0000

As the end of 2025 fast approaches, many of us may be wondering what travel will look like in the new year.

According to a recent Booking.com survey, 2026 is going to be defined by ultra-personalised adventures.

Anthony Lu, Regional Director, Southeast Asia & Greater China, Booking.com, discusses some of these trends, which include road and relationship compatibility trips, as well as a willingness to explore AI-driven hospitality.

Produced and presented by Emaad Akhtar

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Companies To Watch: Why Don Don Donki’s parent lost 9% overnight and what’s next

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 00:52:33 +0000

Don Don Donki may be a Singaporean guilty pleasure, but its parent company is now caught in the middle of a diplomatic clash.

Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar explore how China’s travel advisory on Japan sent PPIH shares sliding, why Chinese tourists play such a big role in Don Quijote’s profits, and what the numbers really say about this cult-favourite retailer’s long-term resilience.

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Mind Your Business: AI sleep tech launches in Singapore changing how we rest

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 00:52:21 +0000

We track our steps, calories, and screen time, but rarely our sleep. Across the world, rising stress, heat, and late-night connectivity are fuelling a modern sleep crisis. Scientists now call rest the “third pillar” of health, as essential as diet and exercise.

The Breakfast Show speaks to Matteo Franceschetti, Co-Founder and CEO of Eight Sleep, to find out why sleep has become the next frontier in health technology, the business of recovery, and how a high-tech approach to temperature and circadian science could redefine how we rest, recharge, and perform.

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Breakfast Bites: Rewatching "Friends" for the 10th time? There's a real reason why!

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 00:05:14 +0000

Do you have any TV shows you find yourself rewatching for the thousandth time? It’s very common for many people to rewatch stuff they've watched before, despite all the new choices we have.
Researchers call it “comfort rewatching", and there is actually physical and emotional explanations as to why we love the oldies so much.

Audrey and Emaad chat about their favorite comfort shows.

Presented by Audrey Siek and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Morning Shot: The Record 43-Day U.S. Shutdown Is Over — What You Should Know

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 23:55:04 +0000

The U.S. government has reopened after a record 43-day shutdown that froze key services, stalled economic data, and disrupted everything from airport operations to food assistance. Now the question is how quickly the world’s largest economy can get back on track — and what the missing data means for global markets and policymakers.

Bryan DeAngelis, Partner and Head of Washington Office at Penta Group, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack the political dynamics behind the deal, the risks of another shutdown in January, and the signals Singapore should watch as Washington works to restore stability.

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US Markets Wrap: From AI frenzy to sector rotation ahead of 2026

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 23:24:17 +0000

Markets are recalibrating after a soft session on Wall Street, with the Dow falling more than 500 points and AI stocks showing renewed volatility. With investors now leaning into the idea of a Fed pause, attention is turning to opportunities beyond mega-cap tech, from healthcare to energy to financials, and a potentially brighter setup for 2026.

Dan Koh speaks with Mark Giambrone, Head of US Equities and Portfolio Manager and Analyst, Barrow Hanley Global Investors about the volatility inside AI, the opportunities outside it, and what investors should be preparing for next.

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Bigger Pic: Data Gaps, Fed Ambiguity & the AI Test

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 09:25:46 +0000

With economic data turning patchy and the Fed refusing to commit to a December move, investors are operating with more noise than clarity. Kyle Rodda, Senior market analyst, Capital.com decodes what the market’s volatility is really saying - from the risks lingering after the U.S. shutdown to the shifting expectations around rate cuts. He previews Nvidia’s pivotal earnings, the emerging “AI-ROI” debate, and why cross-asset jitters may be hinting at deeper fragilities.

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Breakfast Bites: Would you attend a uni that runs 3-and-a-half-week-long courses?

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 04:13:15 +0000

If you're reading this, you've most likely attended a conventional university programme.

But what about the road less travelled? Would you be willing to be adventurous and explore uncharted territory when it comes to pursuing a degree?

Emaad and Ryan explore three unique universities around the world and why they may appeal to the next generation of uni-goers!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Ryan Huang

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: How technology is transforming the way we drive

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 00:45:55 +0000

Cars are no longer just machines, they’re becoming digital ecosystems on wheels. Across Southeast Asia, drivers today want more than horsepower, they want continuous connectivity.

The Breakfast Show invites Benson Yeo, SVP Connectivity for APAC, IDEMIA, to unpack how connectivity, identity, and security are redefining mobility, and what opportunities it opens for entrepreneurs and business leaders shaping the future of transport.

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Companies To Watch: The truth behind Singapore Airlines’ earnings

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 00:44:43 +0000

Headlines screamed that Singapore Airlines’ profits plunged 68 percent, but the truth is far more nuanced.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they unpack how Air India’s losses, lower interest income and normalising travel yields created misleading headlines, and why the underlying business remains resilient heading into the busiest travel season of the year.

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Morning Shot: The DBS–ITE Collaboration and the Role of Business in Social Mobility

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 00:11:06 +0000

As Singapore renews its focus on social mobility, attention is turning to how the private sector can help level the playing field. Beyond hiring or donations, can businesses play a deeper role in shaping opportunity from education access to employability and financial resilience?

DBS Foundation has announced a new SGD14.5 million partnership with the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) to support 8,000 students from lower-income families each year. The initiative aims to ease financial pressures so students can stay in school, while providing mentorship and financial literacy training to prepare them for work and independent living.

Karen Ngui, Head of DBS Foundation & Group Head of Strategic Marketing and Communications joins the Breakfast Show to unpack how such collaborations between private and public institutions can make a lasting impact and what it will take to build a more inclusive model of growth.

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Mind Your Business: The Enneagram Edge - Leading with Self-Awareness

Sat, 15 Nov 2025 09:02:56 +0000

Personality drives performance more than we think. Cindy Leong, founder of The Enneagram Academy, breaks down how understanding core motivations and emotional patterns can transform teamwork, sharpen leadership, and reduce workplace conflict. We explore why more organisations are turning to the Enneagram as a strategic business tool and how it can reshape hiring, communication and culture.

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US Markets Wrap: Tech Slump, Rates and What’s Next

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 08:11:17 +0000

Stocks tumbled sharply on Thursday, with all major U.S. indices logging their worst session since early October as renewed worries over interest rates and lofty tech valuations wiped out recent gains. George Schultze, Founder and Managing Member at Schultze Asset Management, breaks down the turn in market mood. We explore why economic growth remains resilient but is beginning to moderate, how inflation’s mixed signals are guiding expectations for another Fed rate cut in December, and what recent cracks in the credit markets signal for 2026. He also shares where he sees opportunity amid the volatility and explains how shifts in AI, electrification and the energy transition are reshaping long-term investment strategies.

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Breakfast Quiz: From Insulin to Insights - A World Diabetes Day Quiz

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 03:15:54 +0000

Diabetes affects hundreds of millions worldwide, but how much do we truly understand about it?

Join us for a light, informative quiz that breaks down the facts, busts a few myths, and helps raise awareness on this important global health day.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: How 90,000 Singapore businesses reached 14 million global customers

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 01:00:46 +0000

More than 90,000 Singapore businesses are now selling to 14 million international customers, generating over US$1.6 billion in annual cross-border sales.

The Breakfast Show speaks with Matthew Lucas, Vice President & Head of Cross-Border Trade at PayPal, to unpack the Global Beat 2025 findings, from the top sectors driving growth to new markets like Mexico and Germany, and what this means for Singapore’s next generation of global entrepreneurs.

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Companies To Watch: Will Asia’s favourite holiday app fly on Wall Street?

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 01:00:14 +0000

Holiday season is in the air, airport queues are growing, and the frantic tapping of Klook users booking last-minute Universal Studios tickets' a scene that many of us are familiar. And right on cue, travel-tech darling Klook has chosen now, November 2025, to file for a U.S. IPO on the New York Stock Exchange, under ticker symbol KLK.

Fly with Dan Koh and Audrey Siek as they explore how Asia’s ‘experiences super-app’ went from a startup offering discounted attraction tickets, to a publicly listed travel-tech contender betting big on the global rebound in tourism.

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Bigger Pic: Investing Where the World Is Moving

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 00:58:02 +0000

Stuart Dunbar, Partner, Baillie Gifford explores why long-term thinking is essential at a time when markets chase headlines, and why Asia remains wildly underrepresented in global portfolios. We unpack the region’s powerful shifts, from China’s policy reset to India’s innovation boom, Vietnam’s rise, and Asia’s deepening role in global AI infrastructure. He shares where he sees the most compelling long-term opportunities, what defines true homegrown champions, and how “active patience” guides investing in fast-moving markets.

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Driving Impact with Renewed Purpose: FairPrice Foundation

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 23:30:00 +0000

At the heart of every community lies a simple goal — to make everyday life a little better. That’s the driving force behind FairPrice Foundation’s renewed purpose to uplift lives and strengthen communities. From helping families access nutritious food to empowering the next generation through education and sustainability, the Foundation is redefining what it means for a business to give back. It’s not just about donations, but about leveraging FairPrice Group’s scale and network to create lasting, meaningful impact. Jean Khong, General Manager of FairPrice Foundation, shares how this renewed purpose is shaping its next chapter and how Singaporeans can be part of the journey.

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Companies To Watch: Obesity drugs, GLP-1s & pharma’s next billion-dollar bet

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 02:23:50 +0000

Big Pharma just rewrote the rulebook in the obesity-treatment race. Pfizer has won the bidding for Metsera after a showdown with Novo Nordisk.

Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar unpack how this US$10 billion move signals a pivot into GLP-1 drugs, why Novo walked away and what it all means for investors tracking the next trillion-dollar health-tech frontier.

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Breakfast Bites: 10 social media acronyms that are leaving netizens confused

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 01:18:19 +0000

If you're an avid user of social media, you'll likely be very familiar with acronyms like IDK (I don't know), BTW (by the way), LMK (let me know) and IYKYK (if you know you know).

But don't fret if you're not. The world of short-hand social media communication still flummoxes many.

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey share 10 of the more common abbreviations that remain in the indecipherable category for these folks.

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: COP30 and its role in sustainable investment and innovation

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 00:55:23 +0000

With COP30 underway, governments are looking at how to meet ambitious climate and sustainability targets. But how does this all impact investors?

Thomas Höhne-Sparborth. Head of Sustainable Investing at Lombard Odier Investment Managers, shares how these international goals are shaping sustainable investment.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

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US Markets Wrap: Markets at a Crossroads - Positioning for the Data Reboot

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 00:29:38 +0000

With the Dow closing above 48,000 for the first time and investors bracing for the U.S. government to finally reopen, markets are preparing for a flood of long-delayed economic data. Damian McIntyre, Head of Multi-Asset Solutions at Federated Hermes, breaks down how his team is positioning portfolios amid the uncertainty. We explore whether the market narrative has become too crowded around policy and inflation, how to identify deeper signals hiding beneath the noise, and where cyclical opportunities differ from structural shifts across asset classes.

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Morning Shot: What’s Taking Shape at COP 30 in Brazil

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 00:21:22 +0000

As COP 30 unfolds in Belém, Brazil — the gateway to the Amazon — world leaders are marking ten years since the Paris Agreement with a renewed focus on resilience, equity, and climate action that connects to real lives.From the launch of the global “Beat the Heat” initiative to efforts strengthening carbon markets and adaptation finance, the talks are moving from pledges to practical progress.

Audrey Tan, Assistant News Editor, The Straits Times and Melissa Low, Research Fellow, NUS Centre for Nature-based Climate Solutions join the Breakfast Show to unpack what’s taking shape at this year’s COP and what it means for Singapore and the region.

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Bigger Pic: The Rise of Intelligent Investing

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 03:59:55 +0000

Artificial intelligence is changing the face of wealth management — not by replacing advisers, but by empowering them. From hyper-personalised portfolios to real-time risk analysis, AI is helping investors make sharper, faster, and more data-driven decisions. Amanda Ong, Singapore CEO, Arta Finance discusses how the shift from automation to augmentation is creating a new era of intelligent investing, where technology provides the insight, and humans provide the judgment.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Blue Chips Rise, Tech Stumbles

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 03:28:12 +0000

Wall Street closed with a split performance as the Dow Jones surged to a new record, powered by healthcare heavyweights like Merck, Amgen, and Johnson & Johnson, while the Nasdaq slipped amid renewed pressure on AI-linked names. Meanwhile, new ADP data hinted at a cooling labor market, adding another layer of complexity for investors. With Washington inching closer to ending the historic government shutdown, we break down what these market moves say about shifting investor sentiment with Jason Britton, Founder and CIO of Reflection Asset Management.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Building a business that gives

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 00:45:31 +0000

She left a stable career in government, risked financial ruin, and built a business that now changes hundreds of lives.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show speaks with Lydia Lok, Founder, Curious Thoughts Academy & Curious Thoughts Giving to learn how she risked everything to build a social enterprise that bridges education inequality.

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Companies To Watch: Is CoreWeave’s AI infrastructure bet paying off?

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 00:42:36 +0000

CoreWeave burst onto the scene in March 2025 and quickly crossed the US$100 mark on the back of a booming AI demand wave. But after a strong Q3, the stock is slipping thanks to guidance cuts and data-centre delays.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang explore the upside, the cap-ex risks, and what investors should really be watching before buying into the hype.

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Morning Shot: What Singapore’s New Food Targets Mean for Local Farms

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 00:14:53 +0000

Singapore has dropped its “30 by 30” ambition, the goal of producing 30% of its nutritional needs locally by 2030, and replaced it with revised targets for fibre and protein production by 2035. The shift comes amid farm closures, cost pressures, and a tougher funding climate for the agri-tech sector. Under the new plan, Singapore aims to produce 20% of its fibre needs, such as leafy greens, sprouts and mushrooms and 30% of its protein needs by 2035.

Shabana Begum, Correspondent (with a focus on Environment and Science) at The Straits Times and Webster Tham, Co-Founder of Tomato Town (Singapore's 1st Vertical Hydroponics Farm) to unpack what the recalibration reveals about the realities of local farming in a land-scarce city, how urban and aquaculture farms are adapting to stay viable, and what the government’s proposed shared-facility model could mean for the next phase of food-security planning.

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Breakfast Bites: Are you a hoarder? Probably not of DVDs... but digitally.

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 23:23:55 +0000

We often see shows about hoarders who refuse to throw out old DVDs and cassette tapes (what are those?). But now, more and more of us are hoarding something different.

How many photos do you have on your phone right now? A few thousand? And what about your email inbox? If the numbers shock you, you might just be a digital hoarder.

A local study found that about 7 in 10 office professionals admit to digital hoarding — higher than the global average. Many of us just keep saving “in case we need it later.”

Audrey, Ryan and Emaad chat about why we do it, and what we can do to tackle our personal mess.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Will Air India's financial woes hurt SIA's image?

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 05:02:16 +0000

Air India has not been having an easy time with its balance sheets lately - a situation made worse by the deadly crash of one of its 787 Dreamliners in Ahmedabad earlier this year.

Now, the airline is seeking a US$1.1 billion lifeline from its shareholders, Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines.

On the Bigger Picture Shukor Yusof, Founder & Analyst, Endau Analytics, breaks down whether Air India's troubles could hurt SIA's image.

Produced and presented by Emaad Akhtar

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Breakfast Bites: Gamified simulations may be the next frontier for job interviews

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 04:39:39 +0000

Assessments pertaining to an individual's industry knowledge, personality traits and interpersonal skills have become the primary means of determining candidate viability in the job interview process.

But in some quarters, gamification is being added to the mix to give employers a flavour of what it might actually be like to work with these candidates outside of stellar paper credentials and prepared answers.

Emaad and Audrey share some examples on this edition of Breakfast Bites.

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: How to commercialize a Quantum startup

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 00:58:35 +0000

What does it take to build a company around a technology most people can’t yet see or touch? After all, quantum technology isn’t science fiction anymore, it’s becoming a business.

The Breakfast Show invites Dr Goh Koon Tong, Co-Founder and Chief Technologist of Squareroot8 Technologies to explore the use and commercializing cases of quantum technology, what the business model for a quantum startup looks like, and how companies in Singapore and beyond can start preparing for a quantum-ready future.

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Companies To Watch: Can L’Oréal reclaim its glow?

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 00:39:25 +0000

After a surprise earnings miss and a 7 percent share-price tumble, the world’s largest beauty company is re-writing its playbook.

From China’s cautious consumer recovery to a €4 billion luxury deal with Kering that gives it Gucci, Bottega Veneta and Balenciaga in its fragrance stable, Dan Koh and Audrey Siek unpack how L’Oréal is navigating slower growth, rising competition, and the next big beauty cycle.

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Morning Shot: What the Best Workplaces in Singapore Tell Us About Trust at Work

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 00:14:33 +0000

A record 55 organisations have earned a spot on this year’s Great Place To Work® Singapore Best Workplaces™ list — recognised for building high-trust, people-first cultures. But the latest Insights Report 2025 also highlights a challenge for the wider workforce: only one in five employees in typical workplaces say they trust their leaders.

Evelyn Kwek, Managing Director of Great Place To Work ASEAN & ANZ, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack the report’s findings and discuss what the best workplaces in Singapore are doing differently to build trust, psychological safety, and performance.

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US Markets Wrap: What the end of the government shutdown and Buffett’s letter say about market timing

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 23:28:21 +0000

After 40 days of gridlock, the U.S. Senate has advanced a funding bill that could finally reopen the government, and Wall Street is cheering. The Nasdaq 100 jumped 2 percent while Treasury yields edged higher, signaling relief after a selloff. Meanwhile, Warren Buffett’s farewell letter struck a tone of patience, with Berkshire Hathaway sitting on more than US $300 billion in cash.

Dan Koh speaks with Fabien Yip, Market Analyst at IG, about what the possible end of the shutdown means for markets, how investors are reacting to it, and what lessons Buffett’s caution may hold for the months ahead.

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Breakfast Special: Business and Philanthropy Forum 2025 — When Wealth Meets Purpose

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 23:21:44 +0000

Philanthropy in Asia is entering a new chapter — one where business, culture, and purpose converge to create lasting impact. As the Business and Philanthropy Forum 2025 returns to Singapore, this year’s edition introduces the “Celebrities for Good” theme and a new partnership with Weibo, marking a shift toward cross-sector and cross-cultural collaboration.

John Zheng, Founder and CEO of Alliance for Good, joins us to discuss how the forum is reframing the role of wealth in addressing shared challenges, the growing influence of cultural figures in driving social change, and what the future of impact investing in Asia might look like

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Bigger Pic: What the latest global PMI data reveal about growth and risks

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 01:14:48 +0000

Global growth is up, confidence is down, and Singapore’s economy is quietly outperforming.

Dan Koh and S&P Global Market Intelligence’s Pan Jingyi break down what the latest PMI data mean for investors, sectors to watch, and the macro risks shaping the rest of 2025.

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Mind Your Business: How inclusive entrepreneurship is shaping ASEAN’s economic future

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 01:03:46 +0000

Can empowering the marginalised become ASEAN’s next growth engine?

The Breakfast Show speaks with Izlyn Ramli, CEO of Maybank Foundation, on how the R.I.S.E. programme is turning disability and disadvantage into entrepreneurship and economic independence across the region.

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Breakfast Bites: PJs and sweats at work - does it impact productivity?

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 00:46:45 +0000

We’re diving into wardrobes and productivity; yes, your clothes might actually make you work better! From pyjamas on Zoom calls to “work-mode” outfits, we explore the science of enclothed cognition and how dressing (even at home) can help you switch on, set boundaries, and boost confidence.

Tune in for tips on how your outfit could be your secret productivity hack!

Presented by Audrey Siek and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: DBS vs OCBC vs UOB - Who won the earnings season?

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 00:34:34 +0000

Singapore’s banking heavyweights, DBS, OCBC, and UOB, have released a mixed set of Q3 results. With margins narrowing, loan growth softening, and provisions rising, what do their earnings tell us about the health of Singapore’s economy and the road ahead for investors?

Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar break down who’s holding up best, who’s under pressure, and what it all says about the next phase of the rate cycle.

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US Markets Wrap: Oct layoffs hit 22-year high, fuelling labour market worries

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 03:56:29 +0000

Todd Rabold, Investment Management Partner, Callan Family Office, discusses the market's pullback and ongoing concerns about high valuations in the AI space; what a 22-year high for layoffs in October could mean for Fed policy; the Supreme Court's hearing on the legality of trade tariffs; and his overall outlook through year-end.

Produced & Presented by: Emaad Akhtar

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Breakfast Quiz: Can you guess the wordsmiths behind these famous quotes?

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 03:29:18 +0000

We all love to read or share a famous quote or two occasionally when we're seeking some inspiration.

Sometimes we know whom these sayings are attributed to, and sometimes not (other times, we may guess based on hearsay).

On today's Breakfast Quiz, Emaad puts Audrey to the test.

Who said it? Listen in, play along and find out!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: What’s next for tech, jobs and Singapore stocks

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 01:14:38 +0000

From a sharp tech sell-off and an unexpected drop in US private jobs to mixed results at Singapore’s big banks and the STI hitting fresh highs, investors face a lot of moving parts.

Dan Koh hosts Abhilash Narayan, Investment Strategist at HSBC Private Banking, for a deep dive into valuation pressures, economic signals, what Singapore’s latest trio of banks' earnings results tell us about the economy, what’s behind the STI’s record highs, and how global investors should position from here.

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Mind Your Business: The AI engine powering the next gaming boom

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 01:00:57 +0000

With more than 3 billion players worldwide, gaming is evolving into a creator-driven economy. But what happens when AI thinks like a game developer?

The Breakfast Show invites Pavel Bains, CEO of Ambitionz to discuss how AI tools like Cipher are making it possible for anyone to build and monetise their own games and what that means for Asia’s fast-growing digital market.

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Companies To Watch: Can McDonald’s still deliver Happy Meals for investors

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 00:58:41 +0000

From millet burgers to blank Happy Meals and a zesty tom-yum burger, McDonald’s is shaking up its menu, and investors are wondering if it can still serve growth with a side of profits.

Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar dig into the fast-food giant’s latest results, value-meal strategy, and global expansion plans. The world’s biggest burger chain may still be flipping patties — but can it keep flipping earnings too?

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US Markets Wrap: Tariffs, Tech and Turbulence: Markets Find Their Footing

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 05:28:22 +0000

U.S. equities bounced back midweek as investors cheered signs that the Supreme Court may be open to reining in former President Trump’s sweeping tariffs. Hopes of a rollback boosted trade-exposed sectors while chipmakers like AMD led a rebound in the AI complex after a bout of valuation jitters. However, with the government shutdown now the longest in U.S. history and key federal programs grinding to a halt, the question is whether this market resilience can last. Alex Morris, CEO of F/m Investments, discusses how investors are navigating a mix of legal drama, policy paralysis, and signs of a still-stubborn labor market.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Bites: Airbnb property damage - what's the right way to handle it?

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 03:05:01 +0000

Let's say you're all ready to enjoy a wonderful stay at your Airbnb. And you walk in to find some cracks in the walls.

Or halfway through your stay, you mistakenly spill some red wine on the owner's plush white carpets.

Whether it's pre-existing or unintentional damage, accidents do happen. So the question is, how can you handle them in the best way possible?

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey share some expert tips that can help you navigate this process without (hopefully) too many headaches!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang and Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Building a business that feeds both purpose and profit

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 00:55:51 +0000

Behind every “healthy” brand is a real business model, one that needs to survive costs, competition, and changing tastes.

The Breakfast Show invites Cynthea Lam, Founder of Super Farmers, to share how she manages innovation, pricing, and diversification in Singapore’s crowded wellness space, and why simplicity remains her most powerful strategy.

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Companies To Watch: Coliwoo and the Singapore co-living trade

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 00:29:06 +0000

From a packed rental market, 90-plus percent occupancy, and to a fresh SGX listing, Coliwoo is taking Singapore’s co-living story public.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down the IPO, the demand drivers keeping beds full, and the milestones that will make or break the stock.

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Bigger Pic: From Mega-Caps to Asia’s Momentum - The Next Chapter in Global Equities

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 04:45:38 +0000

With U.S. tech giants showing signs of fatigue and Asia’s growth stories regaining investor attention, is a global equity rotation finally taking shape? Aadil Eebrahim, Global Head of Equities at Klay Group, breaks down the shifting market dynamics, Japan’s renewed momentum, and the thematic trends shaping portfolios for the year ahead.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: AI Stocks Stumble - Is the Bull Run Losing Steam?

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 01:47:23 +0000

Markets took a sharp turn lower on Tuesday, with AI heavyweights such as Palantir and Nvidia dragging the broader indices down. The S&P 500 slipped 1.2%, the Nasdaq tumbled 2%, and even gold and crypto were not spared in the risk-off move. With investors increasingly worried about stretched valuations in market leaders and headlines of Michael Burry shorting Nvidia, are we seeing the first cracks in the bull market’s AI-led momentum? Chris Weston, Head of Research at Pepperstone, joins us to unpack what’s driving the derisking, how far the pullback could go, and where investors might find resilience amid the volatility.

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Mind Your Business: How to stay secure in a quantum world

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 00:55:12 +0000

Quantum breakthroughs are rewriting the future of cybersecurity, but are businesses ready?

The Breakfast Show speaks with Kevin Bocek, Senior Vice President of Innovation at CyberArk, to unpack how machine identities are transforming security, why Asia is especially vulnerable, and what leaders can do today to prepare for the coming quantum age.

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Breakfast Bites: Step aside, quiet quitting. There's a new workplace trend now.

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 00:47:59 +0000

We’ve talked about a lot of different workplace trends going on lately, like “quiet quitting” or “rage applying”. But now, we’re talking about a new trend called “The Big Stay", which means... people don't want to leave their jobs!

According to a new survey by Robert Walters Singapore, 81% of professionals here say fears around job security are stopping them from moving jobs, even if the grass looks greener elsewhere.

Audrey, Emaad and Ryan chat about why it’s not just about the salary anymore — it’s about stability.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Can SM Entertainment hit the right note with China

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 00:38:21 +0000

K-pop might be getting its biggest encore yet. Seoul and Beijing’s new content-exchange deal has investors tuning in again, and SM Entertainment is centre stage.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang dive into why SM is the market’s purest China-sensitivity play, how its Tencent link could open mainland doors, and why backstage drama, from EXO’s CBX dispute to the Kakao saga, might still steal the spotlight.

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Breakfast Special: Inside The Singapore FinTech Festival 2025

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 00:09:25 +0000

As the Singapore FinTech Festival returns for 2025, the industry stands at a crossroads where AI is transforming how we bank and invest, digital assets are gaining mainstream traction, and sustainability is reshaping what it means to innovate responsibly. Kenneth Gay, Chief FinTech Officer at the Monetary Authority of Singapore, joins us for a behind-the-scenes look at what to expect this year, from the big themes driving FinTech’s next chapter to how Singapore is charting its path as a global hub for trusted, inclusive financial innovation.

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Bigger Pic: SG-Mongolia direct flights take off - but will they last?

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 04:58:12 +0000

If you've ever harboured ambitions of travelling to Mongolia but were put off by the prospect of a cumbersome journey, here's some good news.

With effect from today (Nov 4), Singapore is launching a twice-weekly non-stop service to Ulaanbaatar, the Mongolian capital.

It has been branded a strategic move to bolster trade, tourism and business ties between the two countries, and gives Singaporeans a chance to explore another exotic destination.

Brendan Sobie, Independent Analyst & Consultant, Sobie Aviation discusses the significance and timeliness of this development, and whether it will be a commercially viable proposition in the medium to longer-term.

Produced and presented by Emaad Akhtar

Photo credit: Changi Airport / Facebook

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Mind Your Business: What businesses can learn from cross-border finance

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 00:52:41 +0000

Cross-border flows are rising, but so are the complexities. And with trade, travel, and digital transactions surging across ASEAN, what must businesses know to thrive?

The Breakfast Show sits down with Chong Wee Yeat, Head of Global Banking at Maybank Singapore, to unpack what SMEs and leaders should know about financing expansion, managing risk, and navigating ASEAN’s increasingly connected financial landscape.

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Breakfast Bites: Throat singing and beyond - Discover Mongolia’s secrets with us!

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 00:48:59 +0000

Want to discover Mongolia, or maybe you were thinking about visiting for the first time? It just got easier for us, as the Breakfast Show marks the launch of MIAT Mongolian Airlines' direct flights from Singapore to Ulaanbaatar.

Emaad and Audrey explore fun facts about the world’s vast, sparsely populated land of nomads, epic history, and yes... throat singing!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar and Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Is Sheng Siong a steady bet for investors today?

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 00:35:35 +0000

In the heart of Singapore’s neighbourhoods, a local supermarket chain is quietly delivering strong results, store-count up, profits up, and grocery demand holding firm.

Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar dive into Sheng Siong’s latest numbers, what they reveal about Singapore consumers, and whether this house-hold name is worth keeping in your portfolio as tides shift in retail.

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Morning Shot: How Singaporeans Are Redefining Their Dream Home

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 00:14:36 +0000

Homeownership remains a cornerstone of the Singapore dream — 93% of respondents in ERA’s latest My Dream Home Survey 2025, conducted with Ngee Ann Polytechnic, still see owning a home as a key life milestone, even amid higher prices and tighter lending rules.

Eugene Lim, Key Executive Officer of ERA Singapore, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack the survey findings and discuss how these shifting mindsets are reshaping housing choices, and what they reveal about the future of homeownership in Singapore.

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US Markets Wrap: Can the market’s AI rally outrun economic gravity

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 23:31:47 +0000

Wall Street’s latest rally is being powered by another AI mega-deal, OpenAI’s US $38 billion partnership with Amazon Web Services. That’s pushing the Nasdaq higher even as most sectors finished lower. But beneath the AI excitement, U.S. manufacturing remains in contraction, Treasury yields are pushing past 4 percent, and the dollar’s firming again.

Dan Koh speaks with José Torres, Senior Economist at Interactive Brokers, about what this split in the market says about the economy’s true health, the signals from corporate earnings, and whether rising yields and a stronger greenback could test investors’ optimism.

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Companies To Watch: NuScale and the race to reinvent nuclear energy

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 13:58:10 +0000

As the world looks for cleaner baseload power, a small U.S. company wants to shrink the nuclear reactor.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang explore the story of NuScale Power, the world’s first certified small modular reactor designer, its latest billion-dollar partnerships, and how its technology could shape Singapore’s long-term energy future.

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Bigger Pic: Riding the Market High - what’s next for investor flows?

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 05:00:38 +0000

Francis Tan, Chief Strategist, Asia, Indosuez Wealth Management discusses what he is expects from investor flows heading into the final months of the year as markets hit new highs. He also looks at what we can take away from the next round of PMI data releases towards manufacturing sentiment.

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Mind Your Business: What Gen Z is teaching global brands

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 00:49:19 +0000

Pop culture is no longer background noise, it is the marketplace. From K-pop fandoms to TikTok trends, Gen Z is reshaping how brands connect, communicate, and grow.

The Breakfast Show invites Jonathan McCarthy, VP of Marketing at Mondelēz Southeast Asia, to unpack how cultural collaboration and fan energy are driving measurable business impact, what Southeast Asia reveals about global youth marketing, and how every entrepreneur can learn to move at the speed of culture.

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Breakfast Bites: Attention parents - Are songs getting more explicit nowadays?

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 00:44:01 +0000

Many of us grew up with some music that can be a bit raunchy, with rap songs that can be quite explicit. With all the double entendres and smart wordplay, maybe you were too young to realize what you were singing along to!

But now, the explicit content has really gone mainstream. From Sabrina Carpenter to even Taylor Swift, are songs getting raunchier, or is it just you noticing it more these days? And the bigger question— what do you do to help police this with your kids?

Presented by Audrey Siek and Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Morning Shot: Trade, Tech and Diplomacy at the 2025 APEC Summit

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 00:22:12 +0000

The APEC Summit in Seoul unfolded last week, against a backdrop of shifting global power dynamics, from President Trump’s early departure and renewed U.S.–China trade talks to President Xi’s call for unity and proposals for new global AI cooperation.

Dr. Oh Ei Sun, Senior Fellow at the Singapore Institute of International Affairs, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack what the summit revealed about Asia-Pacific leadership, how countries like Singapore are navigating this changing landscape, and what to watch as China prepares to host APEC in 2026.

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US Markets Wrap: Tech Turns, Traders Rebalance

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 03:33:02 +0000

U.S. markets pulled back as investors digested a mixed bag of Big Tech earnings and a cautious tone from the Fed. While Alphabet impressed, Meta and Microsoft stumbled, sparking a rotation out of AI and into banks and healthcare. Portfolio Manager Daniel Tan from Grasshopper Asset Management unpacks the tech pull back, the Trump–Xi summit’s trade signals, and what it all means for markets heading into year-end.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang
Image by Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay

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Bigger Pic: Invested in Growth: The STI’s 10,000-Point Ambition

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 03:29:33 +0000

Could Singapore’s Straits Times Index really reach 10,000 points by 2040? That’s the forecast from DBS, pointing to sustained growth in the economy and capital markets. But as IPOs continue to be oversubscribed and institutional investors dominate allocations, the big question is: how can individual investors get a bigger piece of the pie? Phua Zhenghao, Group Head of Investments for Asset Management at CGS International, discusses what’s driving optimism in Singapore’s equity market, and what it’ll take to make that growth more inclusive.

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Breakfast Quiz: How well do you really know October’s headlines?

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 01:03:09 +0000

Are you ready to test your news smarts? This week on the Breakfast Show Quiz, we dive into the biggest stories from October — from global tech layoffs and the U.S. government shutdown, to Donald Trump’s Asia tour.

Play along at home, see how well you’ve been keeping up with the headlines!

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Dan Koh

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Building a business in Singapore’s health economy

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 00:59:58 +0000

Singapore is getting older, but also more active. Yet one in three seniors still suffers a fall each year, with treatment and rehabilitation costing families thousands.

The Breakfast Show invites Martin John, Director & Osteopath at Orchard Health Clinic, to discuss how preventive care is reshaping Singapore’s healthcare economy, why movement is the new medicine, and what entrepreneurs can learn from building a business around better living.

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Companies To Watch: October stock pick challenge review!

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 00:56:27 +0000

What happens when four market watchers pick wildly different stocks and track them for a month?

Join Dan, Ryan, Emaad, and Audrey as they revisit their October stock picks, from Chinese e-commerce giants to biotech heavyweights and quirky toy makers, to see whose call crushed it and whose didn’t quite stick the landing.

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Bigger Pic: As cyber threats evolve, how do we keep up?

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 01:24:25 +0000

Cyber threats never take a break, and neither can the companies protecting against them.

Gene Yu, CEO and Founder of Blackpanda, shares how cybersecurity in Southeast Asia is evolving, why innovation matters without losing sight of the fundamentals, and how companies can stay resilient in this ever-changing world.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

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Breakfast Bites: What was the last book you read, and did you get it from Tiktok?

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 01:08:51 +0000

We’re talking about the phenomenon known as BookTok, and how social media is giving publishing a real boost. Yu may have seen this in Kinokuniya or other bookstores that now have some shelves dedicated to social media recs!

Audrey and Dan chat about our last reads and how we get our reviews.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Dan Koh

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: How Bruce Yang scaled Agnes AI to two million users without hype

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 01:08:23 +0000

Agnes AI has become one of Asia’s fastest-growing AI platforms, built right here in Singapore.

The Breakfast Show sits down with Bruce Yang, Founder & CEO of SapiensAI, to unpack how the company scaled to two million users in three months, what this says about Singapore’s AI adoption, and the lessons entrepreneurs can learn about building tech that truly adds value.

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Companies To Watch: Visa still has the world’s wallet

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 00:37:03 +0000

Even with inflation, higher rates, and talk of a spending slowdown, consumers are still tapping away, and Visa’s numbers prove it. With quarterly revenue up 12 percent and cross-border transactions climbing 12 percent, Visa remains one of the clearest reflections of how the world spends.

Dan Koh and Audrey Siek find out what these results reveal about consumer confidence, digital payments, and the quiet power of a company that moves nearly half the world’s money.

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US Markets Wrap: US Fed cuts rate and turns cautious

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 00:35:13 +0000

The Fed has begun cutting again, but without the comfort investors expected. Jerome Powell’s message was clear: the path to lower rates will be “data-dependent,” not automatic. Meanwhile, stocks remain at all-time highs, gold continues to glitter, and yields are refusing to budge.

Dan Koh speaks with Ben Emons, Chief Investment Officer at Fed Watch Advisors, about what the Fed’s shift in tone really means, how the end of quantitative tightening could reshape liquidity, and whether markets are due for a healthy pullback after months of record highs.

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US Markets Wrap: AI Boom, Human Cost? Markets Rally to Record Highs

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 05:02:34 +0000

Stocks surged to new records as the artificial intelligence frenzy showed no signs of cooling. Nvidia led the charge with a 5% jump and fresh announcements at its GTC conference, including a billion-dollar stake in Nokia to accelerate AI ambitions. Microsoft and Apple each crossed the $4 trillion mark, while investors braced for the Fed’s rate decision. But beneath the market euphoria, concerns are mounting over the wave of AI-driven layoffs reshaping the workforce. Josh Gilbert, Market Analyst at eToro discusses how Wall Street’s AI winners are fueling record valuations and what that means for jobs and the broader economy.

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Mind Your Business: The CEO who took a Singapore manufacturer to Nasdaq

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 00:57:54 +0000

In two years, Singapore-based OMS Energy Technologies went from a management buyout to a Nasdaq listing, posting more than US $200 million in revenue and securing long-term contracts with Saudi Aramco and Petronas. At the centre of that transformation is How Meng Hock, a CEO who staked his own money to save jobs and rebuild culture before taking the company global.

The Breakfast Show invites How Meng Hock, CEO of OMS Energy Technologies, to talk about leading with empathy, building credibility in global markets, and how he turned a quiet industrial brand into an international success story.

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Companies To Watch: Qualcomm takes on the big boys of AI

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 00:36:17 +0000

Smartphones made it famous, but servers may define its future. Qualcomm is stepping into the AI-chip arena with its new AI200 and AI250 accelerators, designed to challenge NVIDIA’s dominance with smarter, more efficient designs.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang explore what makes these chips different, what’s at stake for investors, and whether Qualcomm’s AI pivot can truly pay off.

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Breakfast Bites: Love a cashback deal? Guess what, so do businesses!

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 00:35:11 +0000

Are you one of those people who can’t resist a good cashback deal?
You know, you’re shopping online, and then you see that magic phrase: “Get 5% cashback!”

It’s that little dopamine hit that makes you go, “Eh, it’s okay, I’m getting something back.”

But is cashback a smart financial move… or are we just tricking ourselves into spending more?

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Morning Shot: Why Leadership Starts with Self-Awareness

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 00:23:32 +0000

Leaders are often expected to stay composed under pressure, make quick decisions, and guide others through uncertainty. Yet behind that sense of control lies a growing conversation about how those in senior roles manage their own mental and emotional well-being.

As therapy and executive coaching become more common tools for reflection and growth, how are leaders using them to build resilience and clarity? And what does it take to create workplaces where those conversations can happen more openly?

Dr. Jonathan Marshall, Executive Coach and Psychologist, Marshall Consulting, joins us to discuss the evolving relationship between leadership, self-awareness, and mental well-being and how understanding the difference between therapy and coaching can help leaders decide which form of support best fits their needs.

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US Markets Wrap: Wall Street hits new highs as as trade tensions cool

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 01:50:48 +0000

Easing U.S.-China tensions are fueling a record-setting rally across major indexes. With the S&P 500, Nasdaq, and Dow all hitting fresh highs, chipmakers and Big Tech led the charge in a week of a packed earnings to come. However, beneath the market euphoria, headlines of layoffs and trade uncertainty hint at deeper questions about growth. Christine Short, Vice President of Research, Wall Street Horizon unpacks the market mood, the potential trade deal framework, and what investors should watch as the Fed gears up for its next rate cut decision.

Produced/presented: Ryan Huang

Image: Geralt via Pixabay

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Mind Your Business: How Tiaptiap built a heritage-inspired business

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 00:59:38 +0000

In a city full of food trends, few concepts blend heritage and creativity quite like Tiaptiap. Founded by mother-daughter duo Sophia and Nicole, the home-dining brand reimagines Peranakan cuisine through storytelling and experience.

The Breakfast Show invites Sophia Yeow, Founder of Tiaptiap, to talk about the inspiration behind the brand, how she transformed her personal journey into a creative business, and what it really takes to bring meaning back to the table.

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Companies To Watch: Fujikura and the hidden highways of AI infrastructure

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 00:58:51 +0000

AI might grab the headlines, but the real story lies underground, in the cables and fibre that carry the data.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they uncover how Fujikura, a 140-year-old Japanese company, became one of 2025’s top stock performers by supplying the backbone of AI data-centres.

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Breakfast Bites: Why do you still feel strapped for cash after a big raise?

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 00:44:12 +0000

Has this happened to you: You’ve finally gotten a nice raise, or landed a higher-paying job, and you have more hard-earned cash. But somehow, by the end of the month, your wallet still feels empty.

You’re not imagining it; it’s called Lifestyle Creep. Basically, as our income rises, so do our expectations. And before you know it, your spending has snuck up alongside your salary, leaving you feeling, ironically, poorer.

Audrey and Ryan talk about the sneaky creep that keeps dipping into your accounts, and how you could possibly chase it away.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Morning Shot: Can SMEs Afford to Go Green?

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 00:18:51 +0000

Small and medium-sized enterprises make up the backbone of Singapore’s economy, yet a new Flo Energy survey finds that 62 percent still prioritise cost over sustainability when choosing an energy provider.

As Singapore pushes toward its net-zero target by 2050, what will it take to bring SMEs on board the green transition?

Matthijs Guichelaar, Co-founder and CEO of Flo Energy, and Jeryl Yep, Co-founder and Innovation Lead at Semula, join the Breakfast Show to discuss what’s driving the gap between ambition and action, how SMEs can balance cost with sustainability, and the kinds of support that could help smaller firms play a stronger role in Singapore’s low-carbon future.

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Companies To Watch: LVMH and Kering— who’s winning luxury’s reset

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 06:12:17 +0000

The world’s biggest fashion houses are learning to live with slower growth. LVMH’s Q3 rebound and Kering’s cautious recovery signal that the luxury cycle may be bottoming out, but not evenly.

Dan Koh and Audrey Siek dives into how beauty, travel, and Chinese demand are driving the comeback, and why the battle between brand power and consumer fatigue could define 2026.

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Bigger Pic: Gold, Memes, and the Fed in Focus

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 02:18:45 +0000

Gold is retreating after its sharp run-up, meme stocks are still making noise, and investors are digesting a cooler-than-expected US inflation print — one that’s reshaping expectations for the Federal Reserve’s next move. At the same time, reports of new US trade deal discussions are adding another layer to the global outlook. Phan Vee Leung, Chief Investment Officer at TrackRecord, unpacks what the latest CPI data means for rate cuts, whether gold’s rally may be losing steam, and where markets could head next as trade diplomacy and Fed policy take center stage.

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Mind Your Business: How Winter Time keeps cool in a hot market

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 00:57:26 +0000

Every year, when the temperature doesn’t drop in Singapore, thousands of Singaporeans head overseas to find places where it does. From Japan to Europe, winter escapes have become a national pastime, and one local brand has been helping travellers gear up for nearly two decades.

The Breakfast Show invites Dinah Poh, General Manager of Winter Time, to talk about why Singaporeans love their cold-weather holidays, how travel habits are changing, and what goes into keeping a retail business relevant in a warming world.

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Breakfast Bites: The Great Family Debate - How to handle political differences at home

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 00:39:49 +0000

What happens when politics comes up at family dinner... or worse, during Chinese New Year? Elections may be over, but the conversations continue at home.

Ryan and Audrey talk about what happens when political opinions clash within families — across generations, relationships, and friendships — and how to stay connected even when you don’t agree.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Special: Building AI-Ready Talent for Singapore’s Next Tech Wave

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 00:28:41 +0000

Three in four business leaders in Singapore say their companies are already adopting Agentic AI, yet nearly half admit they don’t fully understand the technology. As this next wave of automation reshapes how work gets done, the gap between experimentation and real capability is widening. To help close it, Singapore’s Heicoders Academy has teamed up with Manus.AI the world’s first general-purpose AI agent platform to launch GA100, a hands-on course that teaches professionals to design and deploy autonomous AI systems.

Beh Min Yan, co-founder and CEO of Heicoders Academy joins the Breakfast Show to discuss what makes Agentic AI different from traditional automation, why mid-career professionals are most at risk of being left behind, and how Singapore’s AI training push under Singapore’s National AI Strategy 2.0 could turn today’s workforce into tomorrow’s AI leaders.

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Mind Your Business: Why 13rushes proves values still sell

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 02:30:42 +0000

The beauty industry is saturated with global giants, yet one homegrown brand has found its place by staying true to ethics and craftsmanship. From confronting the hidden cruelty behind traditional brush-making to creating a line that meets professional standards, 13rushes has shown that values and performance can go hand in hand.

The Breakfast Show invites Yuhui Tay, Founder of 13rushes, to talk about building a purpose-driven business from scratch, staying resilient in a fast-changing market, and what entrepreneurs can learn from her decade in the beauty world.

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Morning Shot: The New Front in US-China Trade Tensions

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 01:20:01 +0000

Trade tensions between Washington and Beijing are flaring again. A quiet rule change by the US Bureau of Industry and Security has widened Washington’s trade blacklist, prompting Beijing to tighten its export controls on rare earths — critical materials for everything from smartphones to fighter jets. The back-and-forth has rattled markets, and raised questions about how far this standoff could go.

Jeep Kline, Founder and Managing Partner at Raisewell Ventures, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack what’s driving this escalation, how it’s reshaping global supply chains and investment flows, and what it means for Asia’s role in the shifting trade landscape.

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US Markets Wrap: Big Tech Leads the Charge as US-China Tensions Cool

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:59:56 +0000

A tech-fueled rally lifted Wall Street, with the S&P 500 closing in on record highs as easing trade tensions and strong earnings boosted investor confidence. Hopes for progress ahead of President Trump’s upcoming meeting with China’s Xi Jinping helped offset worries about oil prices and inflation. Ryan Detrick, Chief Market Strategist at Carson Group, break downs what’s driving the rebound, how investors are positioning ahead of key inflation data, and what the latest corporate layoffs signal about the broader economy.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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A Full Plate: More Than a Meal with FairPrice Group

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:35:10 +0000

For some families, access to fresh produce and protein remains out of reach. That’s where A Full Plate comes in — Singapore’s largest food donation drive by FairPrice Group. What makes the initiative unique is its focus on providing fresh vegetables and fruits, protein, as well as nutritious groceries, going beyond the typical dry staples. Plus, it’s about more than just putting groceries on the table, it’s about enabling families to cook, eat, and bond together. Vipul Chawla, Group CEO of FairPrice Group, shares how they are scaling up the programme and how you can help make a difference easily.

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Breakfast Quiz: Pop the Bubbly and celebrate the world's most festive drink!

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:03:40 +0000

It’s Friday, it’s quiz time, and today we’re raising a glass to one of France’s finest exports — champagne! Join us for a fun, fizz-filled quiz on Global Champagne Day, where we test your knowledge from bubbly history to luxury labels. Play along at home and see if you’ve earned a toast!

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Starting innovation early - is 13 too young to be a tech intern?

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 05:58:20 +0000

Innovation starts young. Dixon Lim, Executive Director of Antica Foundation, shares how students aged 13 to 16 are gaining hands-on experience in emerging tech — from AI to smart home automation — through early internship programmes. We explore how these opportunities build confidence, spark creativity, and prepare Singapore’s next generation of innovators for the rapidly evolving workforce.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

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US Markets Wrap: Trade Tensions, Earnings Misses, and What Comes Next

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 03:54:56 +0000

U.S. equities stumbled as renewed trade tensions with China and disappointing earnings from major names like Netflix and Texas Instruments weighed on investor sentiment. Adding to the uncertainty, the White House is reportedly considering fresh export curbs on software made with U.S. technology. With GDP growth showing signs of resilience but inflation pressures and labor market slowdowns clouding the outlook, investors are asking: where to next.

George Schultze, Founder and Managing Member at Schultze Asset Management, unpacks the market reaction, assess the implications for sectors from housing to utilities, and share his investment outlook amid rising geopolitical and economic crosswinds.

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Mind Your Business: Can your e-commerce platform survive the holiday rush?

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 00:48:38 +0000

As the holiday season heats up, so does the competition for your clicks. And for some retailers, they might be losing sales before they even hit “checkout.” A new survey by Ping Identity found that 54% of shoppers abandon purchases because of frustrating logins, while 63% would switch to a competitor offering a smoother experience.

The Breakfast Show invites Jasie Fon, Regional Vice President for Asia at Ping Identity, to unpack what these findings reveal about changing consumer behaviour, why login friction quietly costs retailers millions, and how businesses can turn digital trust into their next big advantage this shopping season.

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Companies To Watch: Can Coca-Cola continue to keep its profits fizzy?

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 00:45:56 +0000

Flat soda sales, shrinking cans, and shifting tastes haven’t stopped Coca-Cola from popping strong results this quarter.

Join Dan Koh and Audrey Siek as they find out how the 130+ year-old brand is reinventing itself for the health-conscious consumer, the AI-driven marketer, and the long-term investor.

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Breakfast Bites: #MoneyManifestation - Is delusion the solution?

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 23:14:48 +0000

The idea of manifestation has picked up in recent years: If you believe, think positive and put the energy out in the world, you can achieve that goal. And in recent times, there is a viral trend on Tiktok all about manifesting money.

Sounds nice, right? But is there any truth to this? What’s a healthy balance?

Audrey and Ryan discuss how experts view this trend, and about how the best way to “attract wealth” might still be to earn it, plan it, and protect it.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Picture: Inside China’s Next Chapter - What the Fourth Plenum Means for Markets

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 04:36:43 +0000

China’s Communist Party is holding its Fourth Plenum, a key meeting that will shape the country’s next five-year plan and guide economic priorities through 2030. With growth slowing, a deepening property downturn, and renewed trade uncertainty, how will policymakers keep the recovery on track? Heng Koon How, Head of Markets Strategy at UOB, joins us to discuss China’s outlook, the path of the renminbi, and how ASEAN markets could be affected as Beijing charts its next phase of growth and reform.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Broadening Out - Can the Market’s Rally Gain Real Traction?

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 01:32:51 +0000

The Dow hit a record high on strong earnings from Coca-Cola, 3M, and General Motors, even as the S&P 500 and Nasdaq struggled to follow through. Is this a sign that the market’s rally is starting to broaden, or just another short-lived rebound? Frank Cappelleri, Founder and President of CappThesis, unpacks the latest technical signals — from improving market breadth to bullish setups in small-cap value stocks — and shares what investors should watch this earnings season to gauge whether the rally can truly sustain its momentum.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: What it takes to run a restaurant in Singapore

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 00:47:51 +0000

Singapore’s F&B industry has always been vibrant, but also unforgiving. Costs are up, margins are down, and the market has never been more competitive.

The Breakfast Show speaks with Chef Houssein Hafian Rodriguez, the mind behind Asador and Mamma Mia Focaccia, on how he’s learned to adapt, diversify, and rethink what makes a restaurant work in today’s environment.

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Companies To Watch: Amazon’s cloud crash and what it reveals about Big Tech’s backbone

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 00:45:21 +0000

When AWS went dark, the internet blinked. A single network glitch took out apps, games, and entire websites, all powered by Amazon Web Services.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang find out what caused Amazon’s biggest outage in years, how it’s shaking investor confidence, and what it means for the trillion-dollar cloud race.

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Breakfast Bites: The thrill of the find - Secondhand e-commerce takes off!

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 00:43:37 +0000

Singaporeans are really getting into resale - topping the region in secondhand furniture purchases on Carousell. That’s a big shift from just a few years ago, when “second-hand” still had a bit of a stigma.

What's the psychology behind this boom? Audrey and Ryan chat about the thrill of the find, decluttering our minds and the push for sustainability.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Special: How BlackBerry is Powering Secure Communications at the 47th ASEAN Summit

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 00:14:13 +0000

Next week’s 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur — the largest in the bloc’s history — will bring together over 12,000 delegates and global leaders including President Donald Trump, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. Behind the diplomacy lies an invisible web of encrypted communications managing more than 500 meetings in real time. Powered by BlackBerry, these systems shield sensitive exchanges from interception and ensure operational continuity.

Jonathan Jackson, Senior Director for APAC at BlackBerry joins The Breakfast Show to discuss how ASEAN nations are modernising diplomatic coordination and crisis communications to meet converging threats, from cyber espionage to climate-driven disruptions.

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US Markets Wrap: Markets Rebound as Shutdown Hopes Lift Sentiment

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 01:32:56 +0000

US stocks kicked off the week on a strong note, buoyed by optimism over a possible end to the government shutdown and anticipation ahead of key earnings and inflation data. Dilin Wu, Research Strategist, Pepperstone unpacks what’s driving market confidence, why Wall Street is rallying even as Asian markets lag, and how easing US–China trade tensions could shape the next phase for investors. Plus, with Tesla set to report and gold facing renewed volatility, we ask: is it still safe to “buy the dip,” and where are the smart opportunities in this earnings-heavy week?

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image: Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

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Mind Your Business: How a Singapore-linked startup is rewriting the doctor’s workflow

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 00:57:27 +0000

Across Southeast Asia, burnout and attrition are straining healthcare systems even as AI promises relief. Yet most tools still miss the mark.

The Breakfast Show invites Dr Nelson Lau, Co-founder and CEO of HealthBridge AI, to share how clinician-led innovation is bridging that gap with JarvisMD, an AI copilot that automates clinical notes and gives doctors more time for patients.

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Companies To Watch: Walmart enters the chat with ChatGPT

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 00:54:36 +0000

The world’s biggest retailer just entered the chat. Walmart’s partnership with OpenAI could change how we shop, talk, and buy, all in one conversation.

Find out with Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they find out what this means for margins, competition, and the future of retail.

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Morning Shot : The PR Challenge Behind the Optus Fallout

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 00:11:49 +0000

Singtel’s Australian subsidiary, Optus, has faced a series of service disruptions and regulatory scrutiny in recent months putting its crisis communications and brand management to the test. As the company works to rebuild confidence among customers and regulators, attention has turned to how it has handled public messaging and stakeholder engagement.

Lars Voedisch, Founder & Group CEO of PRecious Communications joins the Breakfast Show to discuss how Singtel and Optus have navigated the communications challenges surrounding the outages, what lessons can be drawn from their response, and how large companies can manage reputation and trust when crises unfold across borders.

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Breakfast Bites: Kiasu, or quality? How long are you willing to wait in a queue?

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 23:36:42 +0000

What was the longest time you’ve waited in line for something? Or better yet, have you ever joined a long queue… without even knowing what it was for?

In Singapore, queueing isn’t just something we do, it’s practically a national sport. The average person says 15 minutes is their limit for standing in line, but many admit they’ve waited far longer if the stall is famous.

Now, what’s behind this love affair with lining up?
Are you joining because it’s really that good, or just because everyone else is?

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Beyond the Bounce - Building Purpose in the Creator Economy

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 13:46:37 +0000

Not every creator story is about overnight success - some are about persistence, purpose, and playing the long game. Gaddiel See, Founder of OwnYourCourt, basketball content creator and a basketball community builder talks about growing a basketball brand from scratch, navigating the ups and downs of social media, and finding fulfilment beyond the numbers. For anyone chasing a dream in the creator space, this is an honest look at the hustle behind the highlight reel.

Presented: Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

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Bigger Pic: Building a Resilient Portfolio - Balancing Growth and Stability

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 02:40:03 +0000

Global markets have seen plenty of ups and downs this year, but optimism remains about where things are headed. Andy Budden, Investment Director at Capital Group, shares how investors can build resilient portfolios by balancing equities and bonds. We discuss why many Singaporeans are still holding cash, whether waiting for the “right time” to invest is a mistake, and what to look for when choosing funds or managers. He also highlights long-term themes such as AI and industrial innovation that could shape market opportunities in the years ahead.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Wall Street Wobbles as Gold Glitters

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 02:03:22 +0000

US stocks fell overnight, snapping earlier gains as fresh concerns over bad loans at regional banks reignited fears about the health of the financial system. Add to that renewed US-China trade tensions and investors are retreating to safe havens. Kyle Rodda, Senior Financial Market Analyst at capital.com unpacks what’s behind the market jitters, why financial stocks are under pressure, and what this flight to safety could signal for the broader economy and investors heading into year-end.

Image: Steve Bidmead from Pixabay

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Breakfast Quiz: Are you a person of culture? Test your hawker, tango & tea knowledge!

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 00:46:45 +0000

From Singapore’s hawker delights to even music and dance around the world, we will be taking a tasty, global tour as the world marks the Day of Intangible Cultural Heritage! Kaya toast, anyone?

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: ComfortDelGro gets a lift from Singapore’s fare hike

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 00:07:18 +0000

Another year, another fare hike, and this time, Singapore’s buses and trains are getting a little more expensive to keep the wheels turning. But while the headlines focus on commuter costs, investors are watching what the move means for ComfortDelGro’s profits, policy risk, and dividend potential.

Dan Koh and Audrey Siek find out what the change means for ComfortDelGro’s earnings, costs, and dividend outlook, and whether this marks a turning point after years of thin margins.

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Bigger Pic: Scaling tomorrow’s tech and sustainability today

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 01:18:04 +0000

Singapore is staking its claim as a hub for deep tech and sustainable innovation.

Rony Palathinkal, Head of the Urban SustaInnovator at SMU IIE, joins us to chat about the accelerator’s mission to scale breakthrough startups, connect them with global mentors, and empower the next generation of tech talent.

Produced, presented and edited by Audrey Siek

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Mind Your Business: How messaging became Asia’s digital marketplace

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 00:31:16 +0000

Super-apps aren’t dead, they’re evolving. Across Southeast Asia, consumers are blurring the lines between chat, commerce, and community. As the region’s digital economy expands, messaging platforms are emerging as the new super-apps, leaner, local, and built around trust.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, Audrey Siek speaks with David Tse, Senior Director for APAC at Rakuten Viber, about how messaging is transforming business engagement, what this means for SMEs, and how Asia is redefining the future of digital connection.

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Companies To Watch: Hanwha Ocean under fire as the trade war turns to the seas

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 00:30:41 +0000

As tensions between the US and China spill beyond chips and tariffs, shipyards are now caught in the crossfire. Hanwha Ocean, one of South Korea’s biggest maritime players, has found itself at the center of fresh sanctions targeting its US-linked subsidiaries, sending its shares tumbling and investors scrambling to gauge the impact.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang find out what this means for the company’s margins and defense ambitions, how Seoul is navigating the diplomatic fallout, and whether Hanwha’s expansion into American shipbuilding can weather a storm that’s no longer just political.

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Breakfast Bites: Workslop - when AI makes your work look good (but isn’t)

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 23:18:54 +0000

Think AI will always make your work life easier? Think again.

Audrey and Ryan unpack the phenomenon of workslop — shiny, fast, AI-generated work that looks impressive but often lacks substance. From wasted time and lost productivity to annoyed colleagues, we explore the hidden costs of over-relying on AI.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Wall Street, US-China trade, and the rise of AI in retail

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 04:03:02 +0000

Steve Sosnick, Chief Strategist, Interactive Brokers reviews a day of mixed signals in the markets as the S&P 500 fluctuated amid renewed U.S.-China trade tensions, including recent disputes over soybean and cooking oil exports. We break down how President Trump’s comments affected investor sentiment and take a closer look at the banking sector's better-than-expected earnings reports. Plus, we explore Walmart’s new partnership with OpenAI to integrate AI chatbots into the shopping experience, reflecting shifts in consumer behavior.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Bigger Pic: Trade tensions, AI bubbles, and what’s next for investors

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 02:34:38 +0000

It’s been another eventful month for markets - rom renewed U.S.–China trade tensions rattling commodities to growing warnings of a bubble in AI stocks. The IMF has also flagged new risks to global growth even as labor markets remain resilient. Vasu Menon, Managing Director of Investment Strategy at OCBC Bank breaks down what all this means for investors. We discuss the ripple effects of geopolitics on commodities and inflation, as well a whether the AI rally still has legs.

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Mind Your Business: Can AI decode the way we live better?

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 00:54:22 +0000

Singapore’s wellness economy is booming, but so is confusion. From superfoods to supplements, consumers are spending more than ever on health solutions that often rely on guesswork. Globally, the wellness market is worth US$6.3 trillion, and by 2028 it’s expected to hit US$9 trillion. Yet many of us still don’t know what actually works for our bodies.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show invites Cedric Lee, CEO and Co-Founder of ConnectingDNA to share how he’s building a data-driven wellness movement from Singapore, one that blends genetics, AI, and entrepreneurship to help people take control of their health.

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Companies To Watch: Why LG India is now more valuable than its parent company

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 00:31:53 +0000

A record-breaking IPO, a 50 percent jump, and a market cap that just overtook its parent. Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they take a spin to learn what this listing says about India’s consumer boom, and whether LG India can keep the momentum.

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Morning Shot: Guardrails for the Digital Generation

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 00:11:00 +0000

By March 2026, Google will roll out new age assurance measures in Singapore to automatically apply safeguards for users under 18 — from blocking access to adult-only apps to activating wellbeing tools on YouTube and Search. The move, introduced under IMDA’s new Code of Practice for Online Safety, aims to make digital spaces safer for young users.

Rachel Teo, Head of Government Affairs and Public Policy, Google Singapore, and Beatrice Tan, Head of YouthTech Institute at YouthTech SG, join the Breakfast Show to discuss how these protections will work, what privacy and education challenges remain, and how families, schools, and platforms can share responsibility in guiding the next generation online

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Breakfast Bites: Do you turn to chatbots for therapy and advice?

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 23:59:28 +0000

Many of us use ChatGPT or Gen AI everyday. Maybe it’s for work; drafting emails, brainstorming ideas, or fixing up your resume. But have you ever used it for something more personal — like a vent session, or to speak to a friend?

People are using AI not just as tools, but as sounding boards, confidants, virtual friends. For some, these bots are more available than human friends — always “on,” always ready.

Audrey and Ryan discuss the plus points, the drawbacks, and how to balance between virtual “friends” and our human companions.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Singapore GDP up 2.9% in Q3, surpassing forecasts

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 01:59:30 +0000

Singapore’s economy outperformed expectations with 2.9% growth in the third quarter, showing resilience even as global uncertainties weigh on trade and manufacturing. With the Monetary Authority of Singapore holding policy steady, what does this mean for inflation, property, and investment sentiment going into 2026?

OCBC’s Chief Economist Selena Ling unpacks what’s behind the surprise upside, where the next headwinds could emerge, and how Singapore can ride Southeast Asia’s growth wave while keeping its footing in a shifting global landscape.

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US Markets Wrap: Earnings, Treasuries, and Tech

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 01:00:47 +0000

Mark Newton, Managing Director & Global Head of Technical Strategy, Fundstrat Global Advisors breaks down the market’s next technical turns. From his bullish stance on Financials ahead of earnings to his call for Treasuries to keep climbing, Newton shares where he sees strength and why he’s staying bearish on crude oil. Plus, we’ll dive into why he still thinks semiconductor stocks have more room to run.

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Mind Your Business: How a veteran project director became an AI entrepreneur

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 00:51:03 +0000

Here’s a number that might surprise you: Nine out of ten megaprojects still miss their targets, despite all the new digital tools and technologies we have today. And the problem isn’t always technical, it’s human.

On Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show invites Muriel Demarcus, CEO of Marsham Edge to share what’s broken in the world of big projects, how Singapore’s innovation ecosystem helped her rebuild her career, and what it takes to succeed when the odds, and the industry, are stacked against you.

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Companies To Watch: Ferrari’s electric gamble and the price of retaining its legacy

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 00:46:37 +0000

After years of roaring demand and luxury-brand valuations, Ferrari has shifted gears, issuing cautious long-term guidance and trimming its electric ambitions just as rivals accelerate.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they find out what spooked investors, how the Elettrica fits into a slower EV roadmap, and if discipline or hesitation is driving Maranello’s next decade.

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Breakfast Bites: When Love Meets Money - Are you “financially compatible”?

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 00:39:13 +0000

Today on Breakfast Bites, we’re talking about financial compatibility; that sweet spot where love meets money, and some tips for those who spend differently from their partners.

Audrey and Ryan discuss “money personalities” (Are you a spender, saver, avoider or planner?), and how to work towards a future together without changing the other person.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Morning Shot: Tariff Troubles – Can Singapore Firms Adapt in Time?

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 00:09:06 +0000

Rising tariffs from the US are rippling through global supply chains, forcing Singapore exporters to adapt in new ways. To help, the government has launched the Business Adaptation Grant (BizAdapt) offering up to $100,000 to support firms in reconfiguring operations, diversifying markets and seeking trade advisory services.

Mark Lee, Vice-Chairman of the Singapore Business Federation, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack how the scheme can help businesses navigate tariff pressures, which sectors are feeling the impact most, and what it will take for Singapore companies to stay competitive in an uncertain trade landscape.

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Bigger Pic: Tariffs, Tech, and $4,000 Gold

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 01:25:20 +0000

Markets are reeling after Donald Trump’s latest tariff move on China, sending investors scrambling and tech stocks tumbling. Is this the start of a deeper downturn or just another short-term correction? We break it down with Oriano Lizza, Sales Trader at CMC Markets, as we unpack the ripple effects across equities, AI, and commodities. Plus, with gold soaring past $4,000 an ounce and US banks kicking off Q3 earnings amid looming rate cuts, what should investors brace for next?

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Mind Your Business: The entrepreneur’s guide to surviving ERP disruption

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:50:58 +0000

Global trade tensions and rising tariffs are forcing businesses across Asia to do more with less, and legacy ERP systems may be holding them back.

The Breakfast Show invites Seth Ravin, CEO of Rimini Street to find out why many believe “ERP as we know it is dead,” what strategies enterprises in Singapore and the region are adopting to stay agile, and what this shift means for Asia’s long-term competitiveness in a volatile global economy.

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Breakfast Bites: Are we taking "treat yourself" too far?

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:36:53 +0000

You must have heard the term "treat yourself". Any excuse is a good excuse. You got a promotion? Celebrate and treat yourself. Didn’t get that promotion? Treat yourself. It’s Monday - cheer yourself up and treat yourself. If it’s Friday... party time and treat yourself!

Treat culture is huge online, with millions sharing their little treat hauls, and younger workers deciding to lean into enjoying life now. But has Gen Z taken ‘treat yourself’ to a whole new level?

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Tata Capital IPO debuts India’s next big non-banking powerhouse

Sun, 12 Oct 2025 23:52:27 +0000

Tata Capital’s blockbuster IPO marks Tata Group’s bold entry into India’s fast-growing NBFC space and one of 2025’s biggest listings.

Find out with Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they unpack its retail and SME focus, and how it stacks up against Bajaj and Shriram as investors hunt for the next compounding financial stock.

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Bigger Pic: Currencies, Cycles, and the New 60/40

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 04:45:43 +0000

From a softening dollar to diverging growth in China, Citi’s CIO Outlook captures a world in transition. Ken Peng, Head of Asia Investment Strategy at Citi Wealth, breaks down where opportunities still lie amid slower growth, the risks of narrow AI leadership, and how investors can rethink balance and resilience for the next phase of the global cycle.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Navigating Wall Street highs and Asia’s hidden value

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 02:45:44 +0000

With U.S. equities near record highs despite a government shutdown and mixed economic signals, are investors being too complacent — or too cautious? Sam Konrad, Investment Manager for Asian Equity Income at Jupiter Asset Management, shares his outlook on U.S. markets, why he’s keeping faith in AI-driven growth, and why Singapore and Taiwan may be among the most overlooked stories in Asia right now.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Why scents could be your brand’s secret weapon

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 01:32:50 +0000

Scents can boost sales and shape memories, but how do you turn that into a business?

Join the Breakfast Show as they speak to Dayyan James (DJ), founder of CocosBotanica, as he shares how he grew from skincare into scent marketing, what it takes to design fragrances that work, and the lessons behind running a dual business model.

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Breakfast Quiz: Treat yourself this World Mental Health Day!

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 01:15:34 +0000

Whether you enjoy a nice walk outside, doing yoga or just laying down on your bed, do whatever feels right to you this World Mental Health Day!

We celebrate by testing your knowledge and sharing fun, global facts about how people cope, unwind, and take care of their minds. Play along at home and see how much you know — all in a lighthearted, stress-free way!

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: HSBC’s big bet on Hong Kong and what the Hang Seng takeover means for investors

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 00:40:15 +0000

HSBC is making its boldest move in years, offering to fully acquire Hang Seng Bank for HK$106 billion.The bank calls it a strategic reinvestment; markets call it a risky bet.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they look at the numbers behind the HK$155-per-share offer, why markets reacted cautiously, and what this says about HSBC’s long-term confidence in Hong Kong’s banking future.

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Breakfast Bites: Digital switching may be the cause of your exhaustion

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 05:29:59 +0000

Are you using technology to complete multiple tasks simultaneously?

If the answer is yes, it may be (but not necessarily so) the reason you're so fatigued.

This continuous wave of interruptions between thought patterns and tech platforms is known as digital switching, and it's likely doing you more harm than good.

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey share an expert's take on the different kinds of "switches" we should be aware of.

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo & music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Gold, Fed Divide, and a Dollar on the move

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 04:55:28 +0000

Wall Street shrugged off shutdown worries as the S&P 500 and Nasdaq notched fresh record highs — powered by tech and Nvidia’s unrelenting AI momentum. But under the surface, questions linger about how sustainable the AI trade really is. Fabien Yip, Market Analyst at IG, discusses what the Fed’s divided minutes reveal about the rate-cut path ahead, how a weakening yen and stronger U.S. dollar are shaping global capital flows, and why investors are watching China’s growth divergence and Japan’s carry trade risks closely.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Bigger Pic: How can SMEs better adopt and scale up innovation?

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 01:12:11 +0000

Innovation is a key buzzword in business, but for many SMEs, putting it into practice is easier said than done. Despite government support in areas like AI, digitalisation, and sustainability, too many companies still struggle to adopt the right technologies and scale up effectively.

Michael Goh, CEO of IPI Singapore, explores the real challenges businesses face, and how to turn policy into practice.

Produced and Presented by Audrey Siek

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Companies To Watch: Can Gold’s $4,000 safe-haven rally last?

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 01:00:43 +0000

It’s a record-breaking moment for gold as prices cross US$4,000 an ounce, driven by safe-haven demand amid a US shutdown, weaker dollar, and mounting central-bank buying. But is this the start of a long-term run, or the peak of investor euphoria?

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they unpack why gold’s rally has gained unstoppable momentum, and whether it’s still worth buying at these levels.

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Mind Your Business: Lessons from rebuilding a family renovation business

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 00:59:27 +0000

Renovation horror stories are common, but some businesses are trying to change the way things are done.

The Breakfast Show speaks with Benjamin Toh, Director and Interior Designer, M2 Decor, who shares how he rebuilt a struggling family business, why he chose to keep an in-house team of craftsmen, and what it takes to run a sustainable design firm in a crowded market.

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Breakfast Bites: Feuding Colleagues - How to stay professional when tensions rise

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 05:59:34 +0000

Disagreements at work are inevitable, but when tensions start to simmer between colleagues, how do you prevent them from derailing team morale and productivity?

Emaad and Audrey unpack experts’ takes on managing conflict constructively, keeping conversations focused on solutions and maintaining professionalism when emotions run high.

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US Markets Wrap: Buying pullbacks in equity market a smart play for investors

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 02:51:06 +0000

Chris Weston, Head Of Research, Pepperstone, weighs in on US President Trump's "hardball tactics" vis-a-vis his threats to furlough federal workers should the government shutdown continue; why the "buy everything" trade is still a hit among market participants; crypto's latest trajectory;

Produced & Presented by: Emaad Akhtar

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US Markets Wrap: Gold breaks $4,000-an-ounce barrier - could there be more upside?

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 02:23:03 +0000

Joseph Sroka, Chief Investment Officer & Co-Founder, NovaPoint Capital discusses sector rotation towards utilities and healthcare; continuing implications of the US government shutdown; expectations for Q3 earnings; gold's first foray into the $4,000 / ounce territory; and why investors should double down on long-term plays.

Produced & Presented by: Emaad Akhtar

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Bigger Pic: Are Singapore REITs back in play for income investors

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 01:05:26 +0000

Singapore REITs have rallied more than 20% in 2025, buoyed by easing bond yields and resilient demand across offices, retail and logistics. But despite the rebound, the sector still trails broader Asian equities, raising questions about whether valuations can stretch further.

Dan Koh speaks with Xavier Lee, Equity Analyst at Morningstar, to unpack the latest Morningstar Industry Pulse Q3 2025 Report, from what’s driving the recovery to which sectors stand out, how rate cuts could shape returns, and the S-REITs that still offer compelling value today.

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Companies To Watch: Is DBS the best bank stock to own in Singapore right now?

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 01:02:05 +0000

DBS just hit an all-time high, crossing the S$150 billion mark and outpacing OCBC and UOB. But in a normalising rate environment and with tech risks still lingering, can the bank sustain its run, or is it time for investors to take profits?

Find out with Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they unpack what’s driving its dominance, how it’s managed to widen its moat, and whether investors should still be buying at these levels, or waiting for a breather.

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Mind Your Business: Building smarter businesses through Voice AI

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 01:01:46 +0000

Voice AI is one of the fastest-growing applications of artificial intelligence, with the market expected to reach USD 47 billion by 2034. And today, Singapore is emerging as a key testbed. From call centres to healthcare and eldercare, voice-led interactions are reshaping how we connect.

The Breakfast Show invites Christopher Connolly, Solution Engineering Lead, APJ, Twilio & Muhammad Hazwan Bin Ismail, Lead Innovation Catalyst at Lions Befrienders to discuss how voice AI is transforming both business and society.

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Morning Shot: Second Careers, Second Chances

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 00:25:14 +0000

More Singaporeans in their 40s and 50s are rethinking their careers, some by choice, others by circumstance. Whether triggered by retrenchment, a desire for more meaningful work, or the need to stay relevant in a changing economy, starting over midlife brings both opportunity and uncertainty.

Noel Ang, Principal Career Coach, Workforce Singapore and Cheong Choy Kiew, Executive and Team Coach, Batang Tiga Consulting, who made her own successful mid-career switch after decades in the corporate world, join the Breakfast Show to discuss what it takes to make that leap, how employers can better support career transitions, and what a “second career” can really mean later in life.

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Bigger Pic: China's extended Golden Week holiday sparks tourism boom

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 09:38:43 +0000

What do you get when China's Golden Week, National Day and the Mid-Autumn Festival converge?

A "super holiday," which has the potential to be a massive driver of growth for the country's tourism sector.

Online travel agency Trip.com revealed several key shifts in the way Chinese travellers are planning their trips for the holiday. Edmund Ong, General Manager, Trip.com Singapore dives into the details.

Produced & Presented by: Emaad Akhtar

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Breakfast Bites: Career highs - how to stand out without bragging on social media

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 04:31:26 +0000

If you don't quite know how to go about sharing career highlights on social media without coming across as a show off - don't worry, you're not alone.

Emaad and Audrey share experts' takes on showcasing your achievements online whilst maintaining your values and benefiting others.

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo credit: Straits Times Illustration (Lee Yu Hui)

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: What it takes to build a beverage brand in Singapore

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 01:03:01 +0000

Singapore’s beverage scene is crowded, competitive, and dominated by global giants. Yet shifting consumer demand for healthier, lower-sugar options is opening new doors, especially for ready-to-drink teas and functional drinks.

The Breakfast Show invites Chester Koh, founder of Merlyo Beverages on Mind Your Business to discuss all about the realities of starting up in Singapore’s F&B space, the lessons from moving from military life into entrepreneurship, and what it takes to survive, and thrive, in one of the toughest industries around.

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Morning Shot: Trump’s Gaza Proposal, Two Years After October 7

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 00:48:09 +0000

Two years after the October 7 attacks, the Gaza war shows glimmers of movement as President Donald Trump unveils a 20-point peace plan, accepted by Israel and partially acknowledged by Hamas. The proposal lays out an immediate ceasefire, hostage releases, and a transitional technocratic government for Gaza, but key disputes over disarmament and Israeli withdrawal remain. As talks begin in Cairo, Trump has urged all sides to “move fast,” warning that further delay could bring “massive bloodshed.”

Dr. Lincoln Mitchell, Professor at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack what’s at stake for Israel, Hamas, and Washington and whether this marks the start of a genuine path to peace or just another fragile pause in a long, grinding conflict.

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Companies To Watch: Samsung’s rising role in the AI supercycle

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 00:44:25 +0000

Samsung isn’t just about Galaxy phones anymore. With its latest collaboration with OpenAI, the company is cementing its role as a global AI infrastructure leader. But can it balance innovation in consumer tech with the volatility of chips and fierce competition from rivals?

Join Dan Koh and Audrey Siek as they explore how this move could reshape its growth story, and whether the risks of cyclicality, smartphones, and global competition could limit its upside.

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US Markets Wrap: Why investors are ignoring the shutdown and buying everything

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 23:52:44 +0000

Wall Street’s on a high even as Washington shuts down. The Russell 2000, Nasdaq 100, and gold all hit record levels to start the week, powered by fresh AI momentum and a wave of dealmaking. OpenAI’s multibillion-dollar partnership with AMD has reignited investor enthusiasm, while Fifth Third Bancorp’s takeover of Comerica signals new life in M&A.

Dan Koh speaks with José Torres, Senior Economist at Interactive Brokers to unpack what’s really driving the risk-on mood, the data gaps left by the government blackout, and how investors should read Japan’s sudden leadership change under Sanae Takaichi.

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Bigger Pic: Reading market signals from the PMI to the Fed

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 01:10:30 +0000

Global manufacturing is stabilising, but the recovery remains uneven across regions. Singapore’s factories are finding their footing again amid tariffs and soft demand, while markets worldwide brace for the next move from the U.S. Federal Reserve.

Dan Koh speaks with Pan Jingyi, Economics Associate Director at S&P Global Market Intelligence, to unpack what the latest PMIs and the upcoming Fed minutes reveal about the health of global trade, inflation pressures, and Asia’s growth outlook heading into the final quarter of 2025.

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Mind Your Business: Making AI work for SMEs

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 01:01:44 +0000

AI is reshaping industries, but many SMEs struggle to adopt it meaningfully. Costs, skills, and strategy often stand in the way.

Join the Breakfast Show as they speak with Percy Hung, Co-Founder of Choco Up to find out how local businesses can approach AI adoption, avoid common pitfalls, and build the financial foundations to scale responsibly.

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Companies To Watch: Investing showdown - Alibaba, Genus, Pfizer, and Pop Mart compete for the crown

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 00:31:13 +0000

It’s time for The Breakfast Show’s monthly stock face-off. Four picks, three bull cases each, and one clear winner by month-end.

Dan Koh’s betting on Alibaba, banking on its AI-and-chips transformation. Emaad Akhtar’s countering with Pfizer, and its promising pharma pipeline. Ryan Huang’s going with Genus, turning bull genetics into a billion-dollar business. And Audrey Siek’s pick? Pop Mart, riding Asia’s collectible craze.

From tech to pharma, agriculture to pop culture, they break down the catalysts that could send these stocks higher, and find out whose pick takes the crown when the dust settles.

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Breakfast Bites: Every skyline tells a story - celebrate World Architecture Day!

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 00:11:24 +0000

From the Eiffel Tower in Paris to Sydney’s Opera House, iconic structure define cities all around the world. But what about Singapore? From the iconic Marina Bay Sands to the lush Jewel Changi Airport, the city is packed with architectural gems.

Audrey and Emaad explore the stories behind these landmarks, the creativity that shaped them, and why even everyday buildings can be works of art.

Presented by Audrey Siek and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Quiz: Step into the driver's seat and test your Formula 1 knowledge!

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 04:16:56 +0000

Formula 1 is back in town for another edition of the Singapore Grand Prix!

And that means another quiz that is set to test your on-track (and off-track) knowledge!

Are you ready to rev your engines? It's lights out and away we go!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: From tariffs to tech, what’s next for global markets in Q4?

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 01:19:09 +0000

Global equities recovered in 3Q 2025 after April’s tariff-triggered sell-off, with Asia leading the charge while Europe slipped behind. But as we head into the final quarter of the year, investors face fresh uncertainties, from a dovish Fed and stretched valuations to Trump-era policy risks and a U.S. government shutdown.

In this episode of The Bigger Picture, Dan Koh speaks with Sean Quek, Managing Director & Senior Portfolio Manager at Paragon Capital Management Singapore, to unpack the quarter’s key market drivers, assess the outlook for 4Q, and explore where opportunities and risks lie for investors.

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Mind Your Business: Is your business wasting ad dollars?

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 00:56:44 +0000

Every year, more than US$100 billion is lost to wasted or fraudulent digital ads. In APAC, and especially Singapore, the problem is even more pronounced, with ad violations nearly double the global average.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show speaks to Mark Zagorski, CEO, DoubleVerify about why so much ad spend is being wasted, the risks beyond just money, how AI is reshaping the advertising landscape, and why businesses need to take action before the year-end shopping season.

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Companies To Watch: Investing in Formula One - Is FWONK the ultimate motorsport stock play?

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 00:05:10 +0000

As Marina Bay prepares for one of the most spectacular races of the year, investors are looking at FWONK, the Formula One Group’s Nasdaq-listed stock, as a way to invest in the spectacle itself.

From surging share prices and global expansion to MotoGP’s blockbuster acquisition, Dan Koh and Audrey Siek dive into the bull and bear cases that could determine whether FWONK keeps pole position or risks a slowdown.

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Breakfast Bites: Do you know the origins of the world's iconic peace symbols?

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 02:58:39 +0000

October 2nd is designated as World Peace Day by the Soka Gakkai, a global Buddhist movement.

The day serves as a wonderful reminder to promote harmonious relationships between friends, loved ones, and nation-states.

One of the most effective ways cultures and traditions have depicted peace is through universally recognized symbols, such as the olive branch, dove, V-hand signal and rainbow.

But do you know the origins of these peace symbols?

Listen in to this edition of Breakfast Bites to find out!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Markets rally despite shutdown and weak jobs data

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 02:16:41 +0000

U.S. stocks ended higher after a volatile session, with the Nasdaq climbing 0.4% and the S&P 500 rebounding from earlier losses on strength in health-care names. The gains come even as the U.S. government shut down following failed Senate negotiations, and fresh ADP data showed the steepest private payroll decline in over two years. Michele Schneider, Chief Strategist, MarketGauge Group breaks down why investors seem unfazed by Washington gridlock, the risks of a weakening labor market, and whether momentum can continue in the face of stretched valuations and mounting economic uncertainty.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Rewinding the future of TV

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 00:55:55 +0000

In the U.S., streaming has overtaken broadcast and cable for the first time. But Asia tells a different story. Pay-TV here is still projected to grow from US$63.8 billion in 2024 to more than US$71 billion by 2033, with millions of households in Hong Kong, Malaysia, and even Singapore sticking with curated channels.

On Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show invites Avi Himatsinghani, Founder and CEO of Rewind Networks to find out how a Singapore-headquartered company built a regional presence through channels like HITS, HITS MOVIES, and HITS NOW, why Asia’s TV market is evolving differently from the West, and what it takes to scale a media business against global streaming giants.

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Bigger Pic: Fast cars, smooth skin? Find out how F1 and luxury skincare collide

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 00:49:11 +0000

Elemis has joined forces with the Aston Martin Aramco F1 Team as their official skincare partner, bringing high-performance beauty to the high-octane world of racing. This partnership is redefining brand innovation and engaging F1’s growing female fanbase.

Amy Mansell, Chief Global Partnerships Officer at Elemis, takes us behind the scenes to reveal how two seemingly different worlds can come together in style, speed, and strategy.

Produced and Presented by Audrey Siek

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Companies To Watch: Are Nike’s earnings a sign consumers are still spending or pulling back

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 00:24:25 +0000

With revenue steady but net income falling sharply, Nike’s results raise a big question: is consumer demand holding up, or starting to crack? Find out with Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they explore the bullish case for a brand-led recovery and the bearish view of fading consumer power.

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Bigger Pic: STI at record highs - what it means for Singapore investors

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 03:02:49 +0000

The Straits Times Index has surged to new highs recently, sparking fresh interest from investors at home and abroad. What’s driving this rally, and how well does the STI still reflect Singapore’s evolving economy? Miko Huang, Manager of Equity Index Product Management Asia at FTSE Russell, and Geoff Howie, Market Strategist at SGX, unpack the forces behind the index’s performance, its changing composition, and what it means for retail and institutional investors. From sector shifts and regional earnings exposure to trading activity in STI-linked products, they share key insights on where the market stands today, and what Singapore investors should keep in mind as they look ahead.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Markets climb as shutdown looms, investors turn to safe havens

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 02:56:20 +0000

Stocks closed higher Tuesday despite growing concerns over a looming U.S. government shutdown that could freeze key economic data and rattle investor confidence. The Dow hit a new record, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq also posted gains. But under the surface, anxiety is rising. Investors are moving into safe-haven assets like gold and Treasuries, bracing for potential fallout if the shutdown drags on. José Torres, senior economist, Interactive Brokers breaks down the market’s reaction, the latest job openings and consumer confidence reports.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Companies To Watch: Could Etsy’s OpenAI partnership be the blueprint for conversational commerce

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 00:42:03 +0000

Etsy’s shares spiked after announcing two bold moves: a switch from Nasdaq to the NYSE, and a first-of-its-kind integration with OpenAI’s ChatGPT that lets users shop directly in chat. Bulls say this could be a game-changer for growth and visibility, while bears warn fundamentals and competition haven’t changed.

Join Dan Koh and Audrey Siek as they break down the case on both sides for investors.

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Breakfast Bites: Is quitting always bad, or is there a right time to walk away?

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 00:22:43 +0000

"If at first you don't succeed, try again." "Winners never quit and quitters never win."

We have a lot to say about quitting something... that it’s like a failure, that you didn’t stick it out, and you didn’t try hard enough.

But maybe there is a right time to drop something. Audrey, Ryan and Emaad talk about the power of knowing when to walk away, and the signs psychologists say to watch out for.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Morning Shot: Making Sense of Singapore’s Freelance Landscape

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 00:12:10 +0000

Singapore draws a firm line on freelance work. Foreigners need valid passes to take on physical gigs like food delivery, private hire driving or on-site photography, whereas the lines are more blurred for firms hiring overseas talent for remote jobs such as coding, design and content creation. The approach has sparked debate over fairness, competition, and how Singapore can protect local livelihoods while staying open to global expertise.

Dr. Clara Lee, Research Fellow at the Institute of Policy Studies at NUS, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack what this divide means for workers, businesses and the future of work.

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Bigger Pic: APAC travellers flocking to domestic hotspots in 2025

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 03:38:09 +0000

APAC travellers haven't held back when it comes to making overseas trips in 2025. And the proof is in the pudding.

Data from Booking.com revealed some interesting patterns, including a greater interest in exploring domestic destinations and the rise in intra-regional travel. Laura Houldsworth, Managing Director, Asia-Pacific, Booking.com explains these findings and more.

Produced & Presented by: Emaad Akhtar

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Mind Your Business: Building restaurants in a brutal market

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:58:06 +0000

In 2024, more than 3,000 F&B outlets shut down in Singapore, yet new ones keep opening. Is this oversaturation, or survival of the fittest?

The Breakfast Show speaks with Leo Pang, Special Projects Manager, The Fat Sparrow & Daydream Desserts about the realities of running restaurants in today’s climate, from balancing quality with affordability to staying relevant in a fast-changing dining scene.

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Companies To Watch: Sony Financial Group offers fresh opportunity in Japan’s financial services

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:55:03 +0000

After soaring more than 30% on its Tokyo debut, Sony Financial Group is one of the hottest new listings in Asia. But is it just IPO buzz, or a long-term play for investors?

Join Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they find out why Sony decided on a spin-off of its banking and insurance arm, how investors should think about this new stock, and what it signals for Japan’s corporate landscape.

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Morning Shot: Laid Off, What Next?

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 00:29:32 +0000

The recent retrenchments at Agoda have stirred debate after clauses in its severance terms drew criticism from unions and the Ministry of Manpower. The saga highlights bigger questions facing workers in Singapore: What should employees expect in a layoff, what rights do they retain, and where are the boundaries of employer obligations?

So how are severance agreements usually structured, what recourse exists if workers feel pressured, and should Singapore move towards stronger legal protections on retrenchment benefits? Ian Lim, Partner, TSMP Law Corporation and head of TSMP’s Employment & Labour team, joins the Breakfast Show to break down the legalities and what this means for both workers and employers.

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US Markets Wrap: Can the US rally keep rolling into Q4, and what a shutdown means for the economy

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 23:17:26 +0000

After five straight months of gains, the S&P 500 is heading into a historically volatile October with strong momentum on its side. Growth looks solid, consumption remains resilient, and AI is giving GDP a powerful boost. Conversely, inflation, Fed policy, and the looming U.S. government shutdown still cloud the outlook.

Dan Koh speaks with Sonu Varghese, Vice President & Global Macro Strategist at Carson Group, to unpack the forces driving markets, the risks ahead, and what investors should be watching as we enter the final quarter of the year.

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Bigger Pic: Shutdown Jitters, Tariffs, and Asia Credit Resilience

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 03:13:00 +0000

As Washington edges closer to a government shutdown, contradictory signals in the US economy are keeping investors on edge, from a cooling labor market to resilient growth and consumption. Meanwhile, Trump’s tariffs remain unpredictable but markets seem largely unfazed. Mel Siew, Portfolio Manager for Asia Public Credit at Muzinich & Co, also examines how China’s Golden Week may reveal consumer strength, why EM and Asian credit are seeing strong inflows, and where opportunities are emerging in credit markets.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Bites: Friends or Clients? Navigating awkward catch-ups

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 01:13:47 +0000

We’ve all been there: an old friend suddenly pops back into your life, and you’re excited to reconnect… until you realize they’re now an insurance agent, life coach, or some other professional, and you’re the target of a pitch.

In this episode of Breakfast Bites, we explore the delicate balance between supporting a friend and protecting your wallet, with practical tips on how to handle these tricky “friend-or-client” moments without making things weird.

Presented by Audrey Siek and Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Starbucks’ billion-dollar reset

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 00:52:03 +0000

Starbucks has dominated for decades, but consumer habits are shifting and smaller cafés are stealing time and traffic. Add in layoffs and closures, and the world’s biggest coffee chain is suddenly on the defensive.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they digest the latest on the coffee chain’s restructuring plan, shifting consumer trends and what it all means for global investors.

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Mind Your Business: Building a business on brainpower

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 00:51:46 +0000

The bottleneck in education isn’t content, it’s capacity. Attention spans are shrinking, working memory is under strain, and technology risks eroding the very skills students need to succeed.

The Breakfast Show speaks with Hoa Ly, Co-founder and CEO of Nuroe about building a venture that brings science out of the lab and into family life.

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Breakfast Special: Bridging the AI Gap - Why Boards Struggle to Turn Investment into Impact

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 00:15:32 +0000

AI is now at the top of the agenda for many boards across Asia, but turning those investments into business value has proven far harder than expected. Egon Zehnder’s latest CIO survey shows 60% of Asian boards prioritise AI, yet most organisations still struggle to scale projects or see real returns.

So what explains this gap between ambition and outcomes? What kind of leadership do companies actually need to unlock AI’s potential, and how might the answer differ in Southeast Asia’s corporate landscape? Burcu Bicakci, Partner at Egon Zehnder, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack the leadership challenge behind AI adoption.

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US Markets Wrap: Inflation, Global Equities, and China’s Tech Rebound

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 02:53:57 +0000

Daniel Tan, Portfolio Manager at Grasshopper Asset Management, discusses why global equities may be running ahead of fundamentals, and where fresh catalysts could emerge. From China’s tech rebound to defense stocks and the dollar’s slide, we explore the forces shaping markets into year-end.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Building a business in the long kang

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 01:04:09 +0000

Most of us in Singapore don’t think twice about the longkang, until it floods. And we rarely think about the people who keep them clear, even though their work keeps our city safe from floods, pests, and disease. Too often, these essential jobs are stigmatised, seen as “less meaningful” or “less dignified.”

The Breakfast Show invites Shaik Nifael, Founder, Jetters Incz to share how he built a company in one of Singapore’s least glamorous industries and turned it into a purpose-driven business recognised as a Companies of Good.

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Bigger Pic: Asia Buys Asia - Harnessing Local Savings for Regional Growth

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 00:55:00 +0000

Asia’s financial markets are undergoing a quiet revolution. Instead of relying on global capital, more Asian households and institutions are now channeling their vast savings into local investments. HSBC calls this the Asia Buys Asia mega-trend - one that could reshape financial resilience, investment flows, and the role of Asia in global markets. Herald van der Linde, Head of Equity Strategy for Asia Pacific at HSBC shares what this means for investment opportunities.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Quiz: Think you know the top headlines of the month? Let's see!

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 00:25:50 +0000

How closely were you following the news this month? September was undoubtedly a busy time: we saw a slew of global and local headlines from a big shakeup of the US's HB-1 visas, to Charlie Kirk's high profile assassination and Singapore's parliamentary debates.

Play along and let us know how well you do!

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Could Lithium Americas be an EV supply chain winner?

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 00:14:08 +0000

Lithium Americas shares nearly doubled after reports that Washington may take a 10% stake in its Nevada project.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they break down what this means for the Thacker Pass mine, U.S. EV supply chains, and whether this stock is a speculative trade or a long-term strategic investment.

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Breakfast Bites: Would you open a joint bank account with a friend?

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 13:20:00 +0000

Joint bank accounts are a pretty common occurrence between couples and families.

But would you open a shared account with a friend as a means to invest more in the bond you have with them? Some are already doing so, and reporting stronger friendships as a result.

This is not to say that such a move is not without its risks.

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey dive into the positives and negatives on Breakfast Bites!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

Music credit: iStock & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Tech Turbulence, Gold Surges, and Fed Watch

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 06:03:18 +0000

U.S. stocks stumbled for a second day as AI leaders like Nvidia, Oracle, and Micron lose momentum amid concerns over sky-high valuations. Dilin Wu, Research Strategist, Pepperstone
discusses the risks and opportunities in tech, the bullish gold rally, and the dollar’s surprising strength. We explore what it all means for markets, Fed policy, and investors seeking opportunities across U.S. and Asian equities.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Why most AI projects fail

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 01:17:34 +0000

AI is reshaping how we work, but while 81% of organisations are piloting or scaling AI, only 15% succeed. So what separates flashy AI pilots from enterprise projects that truly scale?

The Breakfast Show speaks with Russell Fishman, Global Head of AI Solutions at NetApp to discuss why so many projects stall, which industries stumble most, the true cost of failed pilots, and the detailed solutions enterprises need to scale AI responsibly.

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Companies To Watch: CAREIT IPO brings a new twist to Singapore’s REIT market

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 01:09:12 +0000

A new REIT has arrived on the SGX, and it’s all about accommodation! With its focus on worker dorms and student housing, Centurion Accommodation REIT is offering projected yields of 7 to 8 percent!

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they unpack its IPO details, strengths, and risks, and ask whether this new REIT belongs in your portfolio.

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Morning Shot: Unpacking the UN's 80th General Assembly so far

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 01:07:27 +0000

The United Nations marks its 80th General Assembly in New York this week, with leaders gathering to debate conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine alongside wider challenges facing the global community. From humanitarian crises to climate risks and women’s rights, the session comes at a moment when international cooperation is being put to the test.

What should we watch for in the days ahead, and how might Singapore position itself in this complex landscape? Bhavan Jaipragas, Deputy Opinion Editor at The Straits Times, joins the Breakfast Show to share his insights.

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Bigger Pic: Marketing on Full Throttle - How ION Orchard leverages the F1 buzz

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 01:02:57 +0000

As Formula 1 season revs up on our shores, many brands are constantly looking for ways to stand out and tap into such a global event - and that's when marketing innovation comes in at full speed.

We zoom over to the iconic ION Orchard as the mall shifts gears and turns to F1! We find out more about its "Live the Race" campaign from Yeo Mui Hong, CEO of Orchard Turn Developments.

Produced and Presented by Audrey Siek

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Bigger Pic: Equities on the Rise - Global Markets, US Rate Cuts, and Singapore’s Next 50

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 05:48:31 +0000

September has been a record-breaking month for global markets, with the Dow, S&P, and NASDAQ hitting all-time highs. Asian equities have also soared, led by KOSPI and Hang Seng gains, as investors shift from fixed income to equities in search of higher returns. In Singapore, initiatives like the Equity Market Development Programme and new rules for single-family offices are strengthening the local market, while a strong IPO pipeline promises more opportunities ahead.

Lee Kian Soon, CEO of Astral Asset Management unpacks what these developments mean for investors and what to watch in the final quarter of 2025, from China’s 15th Five-Year Plan to the next Fed decision.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Fed Cuts, Strong Earnings, and the AI Supercycle

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 05:38:45 +0000

While global forecasts are improving, U.S. markets continue to defy tariff headwinds with record earnings, margin expansion, and surging AI-driven investment. Laila Pence, President & Co-Founder, Pence Wealth Management explores how monetary policy, labor market shifts, and the AI supply chain are shaping the next phase of the economy — from small caps and financials to hyperscaler spending that could define the next industrial revolution.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image: Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

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Breakfast Bites: Parenting tips that may help boost your kids' social skills

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 03:33:06 +0000

How can I help my child develop strong social skills?

It's probably a question many parents tend to ask themselves from time to time. After all, building a strong foundation at a young age can be hugely beneficial when adulthood approaches.

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey share some interesting insights from a mother (who has observed 200 parent-child relationships).

Have a listen!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Building trust in the renovation business

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 00:54:22 +0000

In Singapore’s booming renovation scene, scams and disputes cost homeowners millions each year. But where others saw problems, Wenny Lim saw a chance to build solutions.

Join the Breakfast Show as they invite Wenny Lim, Co-founder and COO, Homepay to explore her journey from losing her commissions to co-founding HomePay, a platform designed to protect homeowners, and the entrepreneurial lessons of resilience.

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Companies To Watch: Is BYD still a buy after Buffett’s exit

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 00:31:34 +0000

BYD shares fell after Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway sold its entire stake and the company cut its 2025 sales target. Yet BYD is expanding globally with a new Hungary plant and breaking records with its Yangwang hypercar.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they unpack what this means for its global brand and whether the stock still has momentum.

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Morning Shot: Trump’s US$100,000 H-1B Fee and the Fallout

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 00:11:58 +0000

President Donald Trump announced a US$100,000 fee on H-1B visas on Friday, in what could be the most sweeping change to America’s skilled worker programme in decades. The move has rattled tech giants, sparked warnings of talent flight, and raised questions about whether protectionism will come at the cost of US innovation.

So what does this say about Trump’s broader immigration agenda, how might it affect the global race for tech talent, and what opportunities or risks does it present for Asia? Bryan DeAngelis, Partner and Head of the Washington Office at Penta Group, joins the Breakfast Show to break down the stakes in Washington and beyond.

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Bigger Pic: Are employees splashing the cash on business trips?

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 03:31:35 +0000

SAP Concur recently unveiled the latest edition of its Global Business Traveller Survey, which revealed key employee spending behaviours on business trips.

Charlie Sultan, President, Concur Travel, SAP Concur, discusses how business travellers' spending habits have evolved; generational differences in the way travellers are stretching their allowances; navigating the line between company responsibility and personal choice when it comes to travellers' willingness to spend their own money to enhance a trip; and how companies can rethink their approach to business trips to balance comfort and cost against the backdrop of shrinking travel budgets.

Produced & Presented by: Emaad Akhtar

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Mind Your Business: The business of meaningful gifts

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 00:51:56 +0000

In Singapore, gifting is changing. A recent study found that 72% of people value the thought behind a gift more than its price, and 66% see gifting as a way to show someone how special they are. That shift from transaction to meaning is reshaping not just personal traditions, but the way companies connect with clients and partners.

The Breakfast Show invites Ellie Lim, the founder of The Luvine Story, to share her entrepreneurial journey, the business model behind The Luvine Story, and what her story teaches us about resilience, reinvention, and building businesses with purpose.

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Companies To Watch: The Next 50 stocks to watch on SGX

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 00:44:49 +0000

Beyond the Straits Times Index, Singapore investors now have two new benchmarks: the iEdge Singapore Next 50 and the Liquidity-Weighted Next 50.

Join Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they explain what they track, why SGX launched them, how they’ve already outperformed the STI, and what this means for investors looking at Singapore’s mid-cap opportunities.

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Morning Shot: What Stood Out on Parliament’s First Day

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 00:26:21 +0000

On the first day of debates on the President’s Address, MPs pressed the Government on Singapore’s position in the Gaza crisis, enforcement against vaping and drug-laced Kpods, and accountability for recent train disruptions.

So what do these exchanges reveal about the Government’s priorities heading into this new term, and what should Singaporeans be watching for in the days ahead? Nicholas Fang, Managing Director at Black Dot, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack the top takeaways and their implications for Singaporeans at home and abroad.

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US Markets Wrap: AI Leaders, Defence Supercycle, and Essential Niches

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 00:01:51 +0000

Joseph Shaposhnik, Founder & Portfolio Manager of Rainwater Equity breaks down the latest market themes shaping investor sentiment. We explore why some AI leaders may be better long-term bets than consensus expects, and where opportunities lie amid market volatility — including a potential defence sector supercycle driven by surging demand in key regions. Plus, we dive into strategies for identifying companies that dominate essential niches, creating lasting value through strong pricing power and resilience against disruption.

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Breakfast Bites: “IRL” events - Making friends the old-new way

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 23:04:16 +0000

When was the last time you made a new friend… in real life, not from LinkedIn, not from a networking event – just, a fun activity?

Gen Zs seem to be leaning into what’s called “IRL events”: not a planned networking mixer, not organized speed dating; but a bread making class, sushi rolling courses and sports where you get paired up with strangers.

Audrey, Emaad and Ryan talk about this new digital generation putting down their devices, and are now combining passion and interest with the desire to meet new people.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: New SGX Indices, Fed Cuts & the Q4 Market Playbook

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 08:33:31 +0000

Singapore investors have a new way to diversify their portfolios, thanks to the launch of SGX’s iEdge Singapore Next 50 Indices, which track the next tier of large and liquid companies beyond the Straits Times Index. This comes at a critical time for global markets, as the Federal Reserve kicks off a fresh rate-cut cycle and investors brace for key US data, including PCE inflation and Q2 GDP, that could shape the final stretch of 2025. Vasu Menon, Managing Director, Investment Strategy, OCBC Bank unpacks what these developments mean for Singapore stocks, global markets, and safe-haven assets like gold, while sharing strategies for navigating both the opportunities and risks in the months ahead.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Bites: Would you ever consider going car-free if you aren't already?

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 04:18:00 +0000

It's World Car Free Day!

It's no secret that cars and other four-wheeled vehicles contribute significantly to global carbon emissions.

And this is why going green (at least for one day in a year) can be a positive step in the other direction.

On this edition of Breakfast Bites, the crew dive into the origins of World Car Free Day and explore cities around the world that have adopted car-free initiatives!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo credit: Lim Yaohui (The Straits Times)

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Building a wine business in Asia

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 01:04:29 +0000

Wine is more than a drink. It’s a global industry worth hundreds of billions, and Singapore is one of Asia’s fastest-growing premium markets. So what does it take to run a wine business, from vineyards to distribution hubs like our little red dot?

Join the Breakfast Show as they invite Jarrod Englefield, Commercial Director, Misty Cove Wines & Maggie Christie, New Zealand's Trade Commissioner to Singapore to discuss how New Zealand positioned itself as a premium wine leader, how Singapore shapes regional consumption trends, and what entrepreneurs can learn about scaling, sustainability, and standing out in a competitive space.

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Companies To Watch: Is NVIDIA still the AI stock to own

Sun, 21 Sep 2025 23:55:04 +0000

Nvidia remains the poster child of the AI boom, but the ground is shifting. With China curbing purchases of its chips, regulators probing its market power, and Chinese tech giants developing alternatives, the risks are rising. At the same time, NVIDIA is betting big on Intel with a $5 billion investment and new AI collaborations.

Join Dan Koh and Audrey Siek as they break down what’s happening, how it impacts the global AI race, and what investors should think about NVIDIA’s future.

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Bigger Pic: After the Fed Cut - what’s next for Asian Currencies?

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 05:45:29 +0000

The U.S. Federal Reserve has just pulled the trigger on its latest rate cut — a move that could set the tone for global markets in the months ahead. As the dollar adjusts, all eyes are on Asia: Will regional currencies get a much-needed lift, or will lingering economic and geopolitical headwinds keep them under pressure? Joey Chew, Head of Asia FX Research, HSBC unpacks what the Fed’s decision means for the key Asian currencies, and how investors should navigate the shifting landscape of capital flows, carry trades, and currency risk.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Quiz: Big brand origin stories - how well do you know them??

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 03:38:41 +0000

Big brands are everywhere these days. They're so well marketed and advertised that you couldn't miss them if you tried.

But some of these companies may not have been founded because of the product or service that is helping them thrive in 2025.

On this week's quiz, we dive into some unlikely but intriguing origin stories. Play along with the crew and see how you go!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Markets at Record Highs - Fed Cuts, AI Alliances & the Smart Glasses Race

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 02:03:27 +0000

US stocks climb to fresh all-time highs after the Federal Reserve kicks off its rate-cut cycle, with small-cap stocks leading the charge. Christine Short, VP of Research at Wall Street Horizon shares what this means for investors. She also discusses the surprising $5 billion dollar partnership between Nvidia to shape the future of AI infrastructure; as well as Meta unveiling its newest Ray-Ban smart glasses, intensifying the race to dominate the wearable tech space.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Beyond the 5Cs and the future of the Singaporean dream

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 01:01:21 +0000

The “5Cs” once defined success in Singapore: Cash, Car, Credit card, Condominium, and Country club. But as the nation turns 60, are our dreams changing?

Join The Breakfast Show as they speak with Theresa Syn, founder of The Singaporean Dream and game studio SYNT, and Andrew Yeo, Chief Executive Officer at Income Insurance Limited, about how aspirations are shifting, why resilience matters, and what it means to dream boldly but sustainably in today’s uncertain world.

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Companies To Watch: Puma stock runs with the bulls

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 00:15:58 +0000

Puma shares jumped more than 10 percent after reports that Authentic Brands and CVC are preparing a bid for the Pinault family’s 29 percent stake.

Join Dan Koh and Audrey Siek as they unpack the buyout rumors, what they reveal about Puma’s valuation, how the brand compares with Adidas and Nike, and how investors should weigh both the upside of a takeover premium and the risks if no deal happens.

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US Markets Wrap: Fed cuts for first time in 2025, citing risk management

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 02:43:18 +0000

The Federal Reserve has cut rates and signaled two more reductions before year-end, sparking debate over whether policymakers are managing risks or overstepping in the face of persistent inflation and a cooling labor market. Ben Emons, Chief Investment Officer at FedWatch Advisors, unpacks the Fed’s latest move, the implications of its shift toward a more neutral stance, and how markets should interpret the diverging views within the FOMC.

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Bigger Pic: With TikTok and Labubus, educators innovate to rethink education for Gen Alpha

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 01:20:12 +0000

Generation Alpha — kids born after 2010 — are growing up on TikTok and bite-sized content, and this has huge implications not just for classrooms, but also for how businesses and educators think about how to best connect and teach a new generation of students.

In today's Bigger picture, Daniel Tay, Founder of BestMinds Academy, talks about the innovation needed to capture attention, and how tech is changing the education landscape.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

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KPMG - Be In Front: Courage – Embracing Risk to Unlock Growth

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 00:30:29 +0000

In this episode of Be In Front, a special series in partnership with KPMG in Singapore, we unpack the values and strategies that keep organisations not just prepared, but to Be In Front. Here, we explore how Courage empowers leaders to take strategic risks, embrace bold ideas, and drive sustainable success.

Anton Ruddenklau, Partner, Head of Financial Services at KPMG in Singapore, shares insights from advising more than 200 growth projects, and how courage is shaping the future of payments, fintech innovation, and responsible AI adoption.

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Breakfast Bites: Do you think revealing your salary would help close the gender pay gap?

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 00:18:37 +0000

The world is marking a very important day today... International Equal Pay Day! It is all about shining a light on the global gender pay gap, which is the persistent difference in earnings between men and women.

Globally, women earn on average about 68.8% of what men earn. At this pace, it could take over a century to reach full parity.

Audrey, Ryan and Emaad chat about how we can speed things up and how open conversation can help level the “paying” field.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Why investors are watching Baidu stock now

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 00:04:43 +0000

Baidu shares have jumped more than 16 percent to hit two-year highs, driven by optimism over its homegrown AI chip venture and signs of growth in its AI Cloud business.

Join Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar in this episode of Companies to Watch, as they break down what’s fueling the rally, how Baidu stacks up against Tencent, Alibaba, and global tech giants, and the risks investors need to weigh before buying into the hype.

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US Markets Wrap: Rate Cuts, Tech Slump, and the TikTok Deal

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 04:36:38 +0000

U.S. equities slipped as investors took profits ahead of the Federal Reserve’s much-anticipated rate decision, with markets pricing in a quarter-point cut and more to come by year’s end. Big tech names like Nvidia, Microsoft, and Alphabet dragged the indexes lower, while attention now shifts to Fed Chair Powell’s press conference and political headlines from President Trump’s state visit to the UK. Jason Britton, Founder & CIO, Reflection Asset Management also break down the Oracle-led consortium’s deal for TikTok’s U.S. assets, and what it could mean for trade talks and tariffs.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Bigger Pic: New Rules, New Plays - Investing in Asia amid trade shifts

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 04:03:11 +0000

Trade wars, tariffs, and shifting supply chains are rewriting Asia’s investment landscape. Samuel Bentley, Head of Client Portfolio Managers (SG) at Eastspring Investments, discusses how U.S. trade policy is reshaping manufacturing hubs, where regional income opportunities are emerging, and what geopolitical developments in Indonesia and Thailand mean for markets. Plus, we spotlight the sector winners and investment strategies to watch for the rest of 2025.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Bites: Be honest... do you bring your phone into the bathroom?

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 01:10:42 +0000

We are all mostly glued to our phones and we take it everywhere with us. It may seem like second nature, but it turns out - there are some places you shouldn’t bring your smartphone to - and that includes the commode. A new study says that habit could actually give you some health issues!

But the bathroom isn’t the only danger zone for your device — or for you. Audrey and Ryan talk about some other risky spots.

Presented by Audrey Siek and Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Sleep tech and the billion-dollar opportunity

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 01:01:58 +0000

We often trade sleep for success, and the cost is catching up. Poor sleep is driving chronic disease, fuelling rising healthcare bills, and sparking a multi-billion-dollar sleep economy. From miracle “cortisol cocktails” to connected devices, the noise has never been louder.

Join the Breakfast Show as they invite Dr. Carlos M. Nunez, M.D., Chief Medical Officer at ResMed, to cut through the hype and reveal how sleep could be healthcare’s next frontier for patients, policymakers, and businesses alike.

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Companies To Watch: TransThera Sciences stock surges 4500 percent after Hong Kong IPO

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 00:50:29 +0000

How did a clinical-stage biotech from Nanjing go from obscurity to one of the hottest stocks on the Hong Kong Exchange?

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang on this episode of Companies to Watch, as they unpack the incredible rise of TransThera Sciences, its groundbreaking small-molecule drug pipeline, the risks behind its jaw-dropping surge, and what investors need to understand before jumping aboard this biotech rocket.

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Morning Shot: When Do Workplace Demands Go Too Far?

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 00:40:10 +0000

From managing attendance to setting expectations around digital availability, workplace policies are meant to guide fair practice — but they can also blur into overreach. In Singapore’s hybrid and always-connected work culture, how do we define what’s “reasonable” oversight versus what feels intrusive? And what risks do companies face when trust is eroded and staff feel constantly monitored?

Raunak Bhandari, seasoned HR professional and leader at Google, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack the evolving norms around workplace boundaries and why these issues matter for morale, retention, and reputation.

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Bigger Pic: Is aviation safety facing its biggest test yet?

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 04:14:34 +0000

Mitchell Fox, Director, Flight Safety Foundation, explains why aviation safety has risen to prominence; the most pertinent issues plaguing the industry today; developing positive safety cultures; addressing controllable and uncontrollable challenges.; and the importance of stakeholder collaboration.

Produced & Presented by: Emaad Akhtar

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Breakfast Bites: "Can we slow down?" - phrases that may help your relationship thrive

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 03:47:34 +0000

Arguments and misunderstandings are pretty common in romantic relationships.

And it's often the language partners use with each other that determines whether an amicable solution is found or the situation gets worse.

To this point, couples therapists have come up with a list of phrases they say can be deployed during crisis periods to not only soothe prevailing tensions, but also help relationships thrive.

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey share the experts' tips!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Earnings, AI, and the Fed - What’s driving markets now?

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 03:15:12 +0000

Stocks are climbing on positive signals in U.S.-China trade talks and investor anticipation of a key Fed decision. Yussef Gheriani, Director of Investments and Operations at IHT Wealth Management, to unpacks a busy week on Wall Street and beyond. He discusses whether a shift from quarterly to semiannual earnings reports would really help companies think long-term — or just limit market transparency. We look at the unstoppable rise of AI, highlighting how Nvidia, Broadcom, and other chipmakers are powering a growing tech ecosystem that extends well beyond hyperscalers.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: How Lai Yew Seng’s third generation is building Singapore’s future

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:58:16 +0000

Fewer than one in ten family businesses make it to the third generation. But Lai Yew Seng is defying the odds.

Join the Breakfast Show as they invite Lai Wei Xiang, Managing Director, Lai Yew Seng to talk about taking over during the pandemic, reshaping operations with a modern edge, and his vision for a construction sector that values partnerships and innovation over price wars.

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Companies To Watch: Is Zijin Gold International a golden opportunity or risky bet?

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:55:17 +0000

From the ancient allure of gold to the modern rush for copper and lithium, few names in mining have risen as quickly on the global stage as Zijin Mining. Now, its international arm is set to make headlines with a highly anticipated IPO, one that could reshape investor sentiment in the commodities space. But is this the next golden opportunity… or just another glittering gamble?

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang mine through the details, digging deep into the numbers, the risks, and what this means for your portfolio.

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Bigger Pic: All Eyes on the Fed - can the market rally last?

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 02:50:06 +0000

U.S. markets are riding high after a record-breaking week for the Nasdaq, but can the rally continue? As the Federal Reserve prepares to announce its latest interest rate decision, investors are holding their breath. Oktay Kavrak, Director of Communications & Strategy at Leverage Shares, unpacks what’s driving market momentum - from Fed policy expectations to key data out of China and U.S. retail numbers.

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Mind Your Business: Sailing into creativity as an entrepreneur

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 01:11:02 +0000

Two decades at sea taught Captain Ravi Sinha about resilience, isolation, and the quiet power of creativity. After building a maritime services firm in Singapore, he launched Art Werkx, a café where people “sip and mess,” blending food with hands-on play.

Join the Breakfast Show as they speak to Ravi Sinha, Founder and CEO, Aregius Maritime Group and Art Werkx about how life on tankers shaped his leap into F&B and what his journey reveals about starting fresh.

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Companies To Watch: Can Chagee brew long-term growth?

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 00:39:17 +0000

In China’s booming “new-style tea” market, one brand has gone from zero to more than 7,000 stores in under a decade. Chagee, now trading on the Nasdaq under ticker CHA, made headlines with a blockbuster IPO earlier this year, but only to see its shares cool from the highs. What does this say about the company’s growth model, its overseas push, and whether investors should still have it on their watchlist?

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang sip on Chagee’s rise, the numbers behind its latest earnings, and what the stock’s rollercoaster ride reveals about consumer trends and investor appetite for China’s lifestyle brands abroad.

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Morning Shot: Vers and the Lease Reality - What It Means for HDB Flat Values

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 00:36:13 +0000

Singapore’s public housing model rests on a simple but often overlooked fact: HDB flats come with 99-year leases that eventually run down to zero. With the Voluntary Early Redevelopment Scheme (Vers) set to roll out in the coming years, homeowners will need to grapple with what that really means for flat values, compensation, and the future of ageing towns.

How compensation is structured, how precincts are chosen, and how expectations are managed will shape whether the scheme strikes the right balance between today’s flat owners and tomorrow’s Singaporeans.

Joining the Breakfast Show to unpack the trade-offs and implications are Ng Keng Gene, Land Use Reporter at The Straits Times, and Nicholas Mak, Chief Research Officer at Mogul.sg.

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Breakfast Bites: How do you talk to your kids about bad news?

Sun, 14 Sep 2025 23:47:48 +0000

In this day and age, we are all surrounded by the news – and a lot of it is not pleasant. So what do you say when your child looks up at you and asks about some scary news they’ve just heard? How do you even begin to explain that to kids?

Experts say it’s less about hiding the news, and more about how we guide them through it. Audrey and Ryan go through some expert tips on how to tackle this issue.

Presented by Audrey Siek and Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Fed still on track for 25bps cut as core CPI meets forecasts

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 04:15:09 +0000

David Abella, Director of Investments, GoalVest, discusses the stock market's third successive day of record highs; the latest consumer inflation data print and the likelihood of a Fed rate cut to the tune of 25bps; expectations for Q3 earnings; and why tech with diversification, dividend stocks and gold might be a good play for investors.

Produced/Presented: Emaad Akhtar

Photo credit: Reuters

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Bigger Pic: What Indonesia’s banking strains and rupiah weakness mean for investors

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 01:08:28 +0000

Indonesia’s protests over inequality and lawmakers’ perks have rattled investors, triggered capital outflows, and pressured the rupiah. With the sudden removal of Finance Minister Sri Mulyani, questions loom over fiscal credibility and banking stability. Dan Koh speaks with Rena Kwok, Senior Credit Analyst, Asian Financials, Bloomberg Intelligence to unpack the risks for markets, the currency, and Indonesian banks for the rest of 2025.

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Mind Your Business: From counterfeit crisis to entrepreneurial mission

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 01:04:13 +0000

Counterfeiting is more than fake handbags on the street corner. It’s a global shadow economy worth hundreds of billions of dollars, touching everything from cosmetics and healthcare to electronics and automotive parts. It erodes brand value, costs companies revenue, and in some cases, endangers lives.

The Breakshow sits down with GuanKai Ng, Co-founder and Director of Business Development at Nabcore to uncover his remarkable journey: from falling ill after unknowingly consuming counterfeit alcohol in China, to leaving a stable executive job and building a Singapore-based company that now protects over 100 million products annually across Asia.

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Companies To Watch: Chipotle’s big leap into Asia and the investor watchlist

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 00:31:49 +0000

Chipotle Mexican Grill has long been a Wall Street favorite, but with rising costs, lowered projections, and a stock nearly 40% off its highs, investors are asking: is this still a growth story?

Join Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they unpack Chipotle’s latest expansion into Asia, its bold restaurant targets, menu innovations, and the challenges weighing on its valuation.

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Breakfast Quiz: Show me the money! Do you know these money movie blockbusters?

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 23:55:59 +0000

Over the years, money, Wall Street, and investing have made it to the big screen! Many blockbusters have captured the attention and love of the audience; some of them based on true stories and real events.
So how well do you know these iconic movie quotes, movie plots and actors? Play along at home and let us know how well you do at today’s test!

Presented by Audrey Siek and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Unexpected drop in wholesale prices boosts investor sentiment

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 05:08:11 +0000

José Torres, Senior Economist, Interactive Brokers discusses another bullish session for Wall Street; Oracle's historic gain; the unexpected fall in wholesale prices and whether the CPI print may meet a similar fate; and the potential odds of a jumbo Fed rate cut at next week's FOMC meeting.

Produced/Presented: Emaad Akhtar

Photo credit: AFP

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Bigger Pic: How retailers are turning to AI to improve customer experience

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 04:16:24 +0000

When we think of innovation and AI, our minds usually go to tech firms. But it has been transforming the marketing and retail space; with tools improving product descriptions, personalization and experience.

Gavin Watson, Senior Industry Lead at Monday.com, shares how retailers are now turning to these tools to not only boost customer experience, but drive growth and sales.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

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Breakfast Bites: 6 mistakes that might land you in the E.R., and how to avoid them!

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 03:33:59 +0000

Earlier this year, the Breakfast crew shared 5 things to avoid if you don't want to pay a visit to the emergency room.

Now it's time for a second round of warnings from medical doctors.

They might be focused on U.S.-based cases, but can still be applicable to us here on our little red dot!

Have a listen!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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KPMG - Be In Front: Innovation – Reinventing for Lasting Impact

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 00:30:54 +0000

In this episode of Be In Front, a special series in partnership with KPMG in Singapore, we unpack the values and strategies that keep organisations not just prepared, but to Be In Front. Here, we explore how Innovation drives reinvention, from bold ideas to real-world impact.

Talal Ikhwan, Director of Corporate Transformation, KPMG in Singapore shares his unconventional journey from pharmacy to digital innovation, and how he now helps businesses reimagine models, embrace AI responsibly, and co-create future-ready solutions through KPMG Digital Village.

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Companies To Watch: Qualcomm stock outlook with BMW AI partnership and automotive growth

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 00:29:32 +0000

Qualcomm may be best known for the chips powering our smartphones, but the company is rapidly reinventing itself. From hands-free driving with BMW to multimodal AI partnerships with Google Cloud, and even a $2.4 billion acquisition in the data-center space, Qualcomm is pushing far beyond mobile.

Join Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they break down Qualcomm’s latest collaboration with BMW, the outlook for its automotive and AI businesses, and what Wall Street thinks about its stock.

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US Markets Wrap: Markets scale record highs despite steep downward job growth revisions

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 04:06:54 +0000

Todd Rabold, Investment Management Partner, Callan Family Office, discusses another day of record high closes for the benchmark indexes; whether the sizeable downward job growth revisions should be concerning; the continuing positive trajectory of AI spend; and why US, international and small cap stocks are good bets for investors in the current market environment.

Produced/Presented: Emaad Akhtar

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Bigger pic: China’s trade slowdown, Japan’s political shake-up & where Asia’s opportunities lie

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 01:23:56 +0000

From China’s weaker-than-expected export growth to Japan’s surprise leadership shake-up, this week’s market headlines are keeping investors on their toes. With U.S. stock valuations at dizzying highs and whispers of Fed rate cuts ahead, could Asia be the next big opportunity for global capital flows?

Dan Koh unpacks it all with Martin Hennecke, Head of Asia and Middle East Investment Advisory, St James’ Place as they dive into China’s rallying stock market, Japan’s political transition and its impact on monetary policy, and why negative real interest rates could reshape investor strategies.

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Mind Your Business: Eradicating poverty through entrepreneurship

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 01:20:39 +0000

Southeast Asia is known for its booming startups and billion-dollar unicorns. But behind the growth story lies a quieter truth. Millions across the region still face poverty, and even in Singapore, one in four live in relative poverty, cut off from opportunities many take for granted. Traditional aid and microloans have tried to bridge the gap, but too often they fail to deliver lasting change.

Join the Breakfast Show as they sit down with Raymond Gabriel, Co-founder and Executive Director of People Systems Consultancy (PSC), a social enterprise that has helped over 100,000 people raise their incomes, and in some cases by up to 400%, without a single loan, grant, or handout.

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Companies To Watch: Can the iPhone Air lift Apple’s share?

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 01:18:33 +0000

Apple’s widely anticipated ‘Awe Dropping’ event is finally here and it features a long list of products that consumers can look forward to. From a notably slimmer phone to a smartwatch that features new ways to track sleep and alert wearers of possible hypertension, one question remains: Are consumers and investors buying it?

Find out with Dan Koh and Audrey Siek as they explore Apple’s latest arsenal of smart gadgets and whether they’re enough to keep the tech giant on top.

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Morning Shot: Should Cyber Insurance Be Essential for SMEs in Singapore?

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 00:14:44 +0000

Cyber threats are escalating, and SMEs are finding themselves increasingly in the firing line, from phishing and ransomware to costly business email compromise. Yet a QBE survey shows fewer than 4 in 10 SMEs in Singapore carry cyber insurance, with many citing cost or doubts about relevance. The real challenge is understanding what’s at stake: the financial risks of downtime, how coverage fits alongside basic cyber hygiene, and whether insurance should be treated as core to risk management.

Sam Russell-Vick, Senior Cyber Underwriter, QBE Asia, joins the Breakfast Show to unpack the rising risks, why uptake remains low, and how SMEs can balance prevention, protection, and preparedness in 2025 and beyond.

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Breakfast Bites: We all see the posts… How are Gen Zs affording all these luxury trips!?

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 00:14:07 +0000

Have you ever opened Instagram and wondered: How on earth are Gen Zs affording all these luxury trips? We’ve seen floating breakfasts in Bali, infinity pools in Dubai, drone shots in the Maldives… all treats for some 20-somethings we see on social media.

Well… spoiler alert: many aren’t affording it. At least, not in the way you think.

Audrey and Emaad unpack the secrets of this business-savvy generation, and how sometimes “fake luxury” can actually pay off.

Presented by Audrey Siek and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: How Agentic AI is redefining business advantage

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 03:38:04 +0000

AI is everywhere in today’s business landscape, powering chatbots, crunching data, and automating tasks. But for all its promise, many organisations are still struggling to turn AI into real results. That’s where the next wave comes in: Agentic AI, a shift from tools that assist to agents that act.

The Breakfast Show invites Sandeep Bhargava, Senior Vice President, Global Services and Solutions, Public Cloud Business Unit at Rackspace Technology, to unpack what Agentic AI really means, why only a small group of AI leaders are pulling ahead, and how entrepreneurs and business leaders can harness this evolution to stay competitive in a rapidly changing market.

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Breakfast Bites: Study links intermittent fasting with higher cardiovascular risks

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 03:28:31 +0000

Intermittent fasting has been popularized the world over thanks to its purported health benefits, which have been supported by science.

However, a new study has raised some few alarm bells, after it found a link between time-restricted eating and a higher risk of cardiovascular complications.

Have a listen!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo credit: Pexels & its talented community of contributors

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: AI ecosystem building out beyond Mag 7 and S&P 500

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 03:07:01 +0000

Alex Morris, CEO & CIO, F/m Investments, discusses the unusually strong September start for markets in a historically weak month; the sustainability of the AI revolution beyond the Mag 7 and S&P 500; expectations for PPI and CPI prints; and the current investor playbook for cash, equities and fixed income.

Produced/Presented: Emaad Akhtar

Photo Credi: ST Illustration: Chng Choon Hiong, Adobe Stock

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Bigger Pic: Why 40% of Singaporeans say travel is a top financial priority

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 02:09:47 +0000

It's no secret that Singaporeans love to travel.

But you might be surprised to hear that - according to findings from a recent survey co-commissioned by global travel app, Skyscanner and digital bank, Trust Bank - 40% of us believe saving for overseas trips is more important than other financial goals.

Why is that so? Cyndi Hui, Travel Trends & Destination Expert, Skyscanner, tells us more.

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Companies To Watch: Can Volkswagen keep its lead in the electric era?

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 00:18:51 +0000

Volkswagen has long defined luxury and performance with brands like Bugatti, Bentley, Porsche, and Audi. But now, the German auto giant is making a bold pivot: chasing the entry-level EV market with a lineup of affordable electric small cars. But can this strategy offset Chinese competition, trade headwinds, and the pressure on Porsche’s performance?

Dan Koh and Audrey Siek find out if Volkswagen can reinvent itself fast enough to thrive in the new EV era.

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Bigger pic: How China’s export numbers and the Fed’s next move could shift markets

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 01:11:56 +0000

The world’s two largest economies may have hit pause on their trade war, but the truce is fragile, and the data rolling out this week could tell us just how shaky things really are.

In light of China’s August trade and inflation numbers and the all-important Fed meeting, where a rate cut now looks more likely than ever, what does this all mean for markets, from bond yields and equities? And how should investors be reading the signals amid so much uncertainty?

Dan Koh finds out with Barnabas Gan, Group Chief Economist & Head, Market Research, RHB Bank

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Companies To Watch: Can Broadcom outpace Nvidia in the AI Chip revolution

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 01:04:39 +0000

The AI chip wars are heating up. With tech giants from Google to Meta designing their own custom silicon, Broadcom has just taken a bold step, announcing a $10 billion deal with OpenAI to co-develop next-generation AI accelerators. What could this mean for Nvidia’s dominance in the AI hardware space? And with high risks, long lead times, and questions over exclusivity, will this partnership deliver on its promise, or prove too ambitious?

Join Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they break down what this deal means for Broadcom, the semiconductor industry, and investors betting on the future of AI.

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Morning Shot: Opening of Singapore's 15th Parliament - Key Signals for Singapore's Future

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 00:50:43 +0000

The 15th Parliament of Singapore opened on Friday, 5 September with the swearing-in of 97 elected Members of Parliament and two Non-Constituency MPs, including a record number of women and 32 first-time MPs. President Tharman Shanmugaratnam’s address laid out the Government’s priorities for the term, touching on keeping social mobility alive, strengthening unity, adapting to a shifting global order, and ensuring inclusive growth amid economic headwinds. So what do these priorities mean for jobs, wages, and opportunities? How will they shape the way Singapore navigates global uncertainty and domestic concerns in the years ahead?

Joining the Breakfast Show is Dr. Eugene Tan, Associate Professor of Law at Singapore Management University, to unpack the signals, challenges, and opportunities from this new parliamentary term.

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Breakfast Bites: Have you ever talked about money with your parents?

Sun, 07 Sep 2025 23:53:07 +0000

We talk alot about money on MoneyFM 89.3: How to handle your money, how to talk to your kids about money, budgeting, companies to watch, etc. But have you ever actually talked to your parents about their money?

It feels like roles have reversed when this talk happens. CPF, insurance, savings, bills, investments… all very sensitive stuff.

But it’s important; because chances are that we’ll have to step in at some point to help manage our parents’ finances. Audrey and Emaad discuss how to start the conversation early before an emergency happens.

Presented by Audrey Siek and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Emerging markets, precious metals savvy bets for investors

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 11:07:57 +0000

Mark Newton, Managing Director & Global Head of Technical Strategy, Fundstrat Global Advisors deconstructs the S&P 500's 21st record close for the year and why there's been a bifurcation in the performance of tech stocks in the past month; freshly released lower-than-expected ADP private payroll numbers and expectations for August nonfarm payrolls; and why investors should bet on emerging markets and precious metals.

Produced/Presented: Emaad Akhtar

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Breakfast Quiz: Birthday rapid fire trivia - how well do you know Audrey?

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 08:06:03 +0000

On this week's quiz, we change things up a little to celebrate Audrey's special day!

No multiple choice options; instead, a casual rapid fire round of trivia questions that dive a little deeper into the birthday queen's personality, likes and motivations!

Happy birthday, Audrey!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: How AI could transform Singapore’s F&B industry

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 01:26:24 +0000

Singaporeans love food, but running an F&B business here is no walk in the park. High rents, manpower shortages, and razor-thin margins mean that many eateries struggle to survive beyond their first year. But what if the kitchen itself could be reimagined?

Join the Breakfast Show as they invite Crono Lee, Marketing Manager of Aikit Pte Ltd, the company behind ChefGenie, Singapore’s first AI-powered autonomous kitchen. They find out how this new proprietary technology is tackling everything from manpower gaps to ensuring food quality and scalability, and how entrepreneurs can rethink entrenched problems with fresh solutions.

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Bigger pic: China’s tech catch up and what it means for investors

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 01:25:08 +0000

From DeepSeek’s AI breakthrough to Alibaba’s chip ambitions and Meituan’s open-source model, it’s no question that China’s tech is rising fast. With policy tailwinds, a massive domestic market, and a wide valuation gap, investors are asking: can China rival U.S. tech dominance?

Join Dan Koh as he speaks to Sean Teo, Sales Trader at Saxo, on China’s tech momentum, Nvidia’s challenge, and how investors can position. Plus, a look at the U.S. jobs report, inflation, and whether a Fed rate cut is coming this September.

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Companies To Watch: Chasing gold gains at CNMC Goldmine

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 00:25:23 +0000

With gold prices hitting fresh highs and mining stocks glittering with potential, investors are asking: is this the start of a new golden era or just another fleeting shine? CNMC Goldmine, Singapore’s only listed gold producer, has been making headlines with its production updates, expansion plans, and the impact of global gold price movements.

Embark on the journey with Dan Koh and Audrey Siek as they dive into the world of Gold, breaking down CNMC’s latest stock performance, price trends, and what the future could hold for investors chasing that elusive sparkle.

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US Markets Wrap: Tech Titans Lift Wall Street: Alphabet ruling, Fed watch, and AI’s next wave

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 03:41:56 +0000

The S&P 500 and Nasdaq closed higher on Wednesday, powered by tech heavyweights Alphabet and Apple after a favorable antitrust ruling eased regulatory fears. Joseph Sroka, CIO and Founder of NovaPoint Capital, unpacks why markets rallied despite September’s reputation as a tough month for equities, the implications of rising Treasury yields and tariff uncertainty, and how the Federal Reserve’s next move hinges on Friday’s jobs report. He also shares why AI-driven investment is rippling far beyond Silicon Valley, shaping opportunities across sectors from utilities to industrials.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay

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Bigger Pic: New mega resort to reinvigorate Sri Lanka's luxury & tourism sector

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 00:47:04 +0000

When you see casino, luxury hotels, fine dining, and MICE facilities: the places that come to mind include Singapore and Las Vegas.

But we have another one to add to the list. Sri Lanka’s new mega resort “City Of Dreams” is a landmark partnership between John Keells Holdings and Melco Resorts & Entertainment.

Gihan Cooray, Deputy Chairperson, John Keells Holdings, tells us how this innovative project could impact the luxury and travel sector in the region.

Produced and Presented by Audrey Siek

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KPMG - Be In Front: Foresight – Anticipating Change, Shaping Advantage

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 00:30:00 +0000

In this episode of Be In Front, a special series in partnership with KPMG in Singapore, we explore the value of foresight - the ability to anticipate change, seize opportunities, and stay competitive in an increasingly complex world.

Ajay Kumar Sanganeria, Partner & Head of Tax at KPMG in Singapore, shares his perspective on how businesses can navigate shifting global tax landscapes, harness digital transformation, and future-proof their strategies. With over 23 years of experience advising multinational corporations, Ajay reveals how foresight isn’t just about reacting to disruption, but about positioning organisations to thrive in what comes next.

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Companies To Watch: Boustead Singapore’s leap into REITs

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 00:19:45 +0000

Boustead Singapore has been a quiet stalwart in engineering, energy, and real estate solutions for decades. But today, it’s making headlines for something bigger, a billion-dollar REIT listing that could reshape its future and unlock hidden value. So how did a legacy firm get here, and what does this transformation mean for investors?

Join Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they explore Boustead’s journey, its market impact, and why this once-steady industrial player is suddenly on everyone’s watchlist.

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Breakfast Bites: Is it a good idea to pay your kids to help with chores?

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 23:56:20 +0000

Hands up if you had to do chores as a kid... but here’s the real question: Did your parents ever pay you for it?

Celebrity chef Ayesha Curry, wife of NBA star Steph Curry, recently admitted she paid her 13-year-old daughter and niece $20 to clean the kitchen and living room.

And it sparked this age-old parenting debate: should kids be paid for chores, or should they just pitch in because they’re part of the family?

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Bites: Does a bearded man look more masculine and mature?

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 06:21:09 +0000

Do you think beards influence how a man might be perceived by society?

Some studies suggest this might be the case.

On Breakfast Bites, we dive into the traits that have been commonly associated with beards as well as some surprising world records!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Wall Street wobbles as trade ruling and tech moves take centre stage

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 03:13:37 +0000

U.S. stocks kicked off September on the back foot, with all three major indexes closing lower as investors weighed rising bond yields and the latest twists in trade policy. Big Tech names like Nvidia, Amazon, and Apple saw declines during regular trading, but Apple and Alphabet rebounded sharply after hours on key legal rulings. Fabien Yip, Market Analyst, IG breaks down what the appeals court’s decision on Trump’s tariffs means for markets, why profit-taking is hitting bull market winners, and how shifting legal winds could reshape the tech landscape.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Markets, Milestones, and Safari Lessons with SGX CEO Loh Boon Chye

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 02:15:00 +0000

SGX CEO Loh Boon Chye marks 10 years at the helm and his recent CEO of the Year award with reflections on a decade of transformation — from an equities-led exchange to a multi-asset global hub. He shares the challenges, surprises, and opportunities ahead for Singapore’s markets, plus the leadership lessons he draws from his passion for safari adventures.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Reimagining entrepreneurship in design

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 01:19:27 +0000

As cities grow denser and lives move faster, the spaces we inhabit are being asked to do more. And sitting right at the intersection of these needs is the design and build industry, shaping environments that influence how we live, work, and feel.

Join the Breakfast Show as they invite Oliver Goh, Founder and Managing Director of Ngee Koon to discuss how his team is reimagining the future of interiors, not just as spaces, but as experiences with impact.

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Companies To Watch: Is Alibaba’s 19 percent surge a buy call?

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 00:48:32 +0000

For years, Alibaba has been synonymous with e-commerce. But today, the real story is unfolding in the cloud and in artificial intelligence. With triple-digit AI growth and plans to reduce reliance on foreign chipmakers, Alibaba is now trying to reshape its identity in real time.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they look into the catalysts behind Alibaba’s impressive 19% jump in stock price, and whether Alibaba can truly emerge as a leader in the next wave of AI innovation.

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Morning Shot: Appraisal Season - How to Make It Work for You

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 00:24:59 +0000

As the final quarter of the year approaches, performance reviews will soon take centre stage and for many employees it brings a mix of anticipation and anxiety. The challenge is knowing how to prepare: what evidence of impact to bring to the table, how to align with next year’s priorities, and when it makes sense to raise questions about reskilling or internal moves.

Shalynn Ler, Managing Director at Ethos BeathChapman (EBC Singapore), joins the Breakfast Show to discuss how employees can approach appraisals constructively, avoid common pitfalls, and keep conversations focused on both immediate outcomes and longer-term growth.

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Bigger Pic: ASEAN on Edge - Protests in Indonesia, Political Shifts in Thailand

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 08:19:29 +0000

As Southeast Asia navigates a volatile mix of political unrest and economic uncertainty, investors and policymakers alike are watching developments in Indonesia and Thailand with growing concern. In recent weeks, protests have flared across Indonesia, while Thailand faces fresh political instability following the ouster of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Against this backdrop, questions loom large over economic resilience, monetary policy direction, and investor sentiment across ASEAN. We speak today with Lavanya Venkateswaran, Senior ASEAN Economist, OCBC, to unpack the economic implications of these flashpoints, & explore what it all means for regional stability heading into the final quarter of 2025.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Companies To Watch: What Cathay Cineplexes closure means for mm2 Asia investors

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 01:03:39 +0000

After 70 years of date nights, family outings, and blockbuster premieres, the lights have gone out at Cathay Cineplexes. Once a cultural icon, the chain is now shuttered for good, dragged down by debt, landlords, and the unstoppable rise of streaming.

Join Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they trace Cathay’s final act, the financial struggles of its parent mm2 Asia, and what this means for the future of moviegoing in Singapore.

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Mind Your Business: How Pollisum is modernising Singapore’s crane industry

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 01:02:10 +0000

Singapore’s skyline is shaped by cranes, silently powering the city’s infrastructure. Behind these machines is an industry that is competitive, traditional, and in need of innovation. Pollisum Group, founded in 1984, has been part of this backbone for decades.

Join the Breakfast Show as they invite Chris Ang, CEO of Pollisum Group to discuss how he transformed a family business, modernised operations, navigated a competitive industry, and is shaping the future of heavy-lifting in Singapore.

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Breakfast Bites: "You've gained weight!" - Is it ever OK to comment on someone's looks?

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 23:49:43 +0000

A woman in Singapore shared a video on Reddit about an older stranger who told her in Chinese "you’re pretty, but fat” while she was buying fishball noodles.

She just laughed it off and called it the funniest part of her day; but this has also sparked a debate on whether it is ever acceptable to comment on someone’s weight and appearance. In many parts of Asia, blunt comments are a cultural norm; but is this a good reminder that maybe some comments should be kept to yourself?

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Bites: Here's what your handwriting style may say about your personality!

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 06:37:48 +0000

When was the last time you penned a letter to a friend or loved one, or anyone for that matter?

In this predominantly digital age, the art of authentic letter writing has been lost on many. And that means fewer occurrences of seeing cool handwriting styles.

On World Letter Writing Day, we dive into what your handwriting style may indicate about your personality!

Maybe it'll rekindle a flame to put pen to paper! Have a listen!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Markets on Edge - Indonesia Unrest and the Fed’s Next Move

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 02:52:11 +0000

Political risk is back on the radar in Southeast Asia. Intensifying protests in Indonesia have rattled investor confidence in one of the region’s biggest emerging markets. We’ll unpack how this instability is reverberating through equities, currencies, and investor sentiment. At the same time, all eyes turn to the U.S., where this week’s jobs report could anchor expectations for the Fed’s September policy decision. Oriano Lizza, Sales Trader, CMC Markets Singapore breaks down what to watch in the markets, from AI-linked earnings to retail bellwethers — and whether September’s reputation as a tough trading month could play out again.

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Mind Your Business: AXS and the art of scaling fintech in ASEAN

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 00:30:35 +0000

When you swipe a card or tap an app to pay your bills, chances are AXS is behind it. What started as a simple bill-payment kiosk has grown into one of ASEAN’s leading fintech companies.

The Breakfast Show invites Jeffrey Goh, Group CEO & Executive Director, AXS Pte Ltd to uncover how he scaled the business, navigated challenges, and redefined digital payments in the region.

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Companies To Watch: Spotify vs. Meta - Dan and Ryan’s market showdown

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 00:19:14 +0000

It’s Spotify versus Meta, Dan Koh versus Ryan Huang, and two months of stock suspense. Who rode the market waves better?

From shocking earnings twists to AI surprises and user growth stories, tune in to find out who claimed the crown in this friendly but fierce stock battle.

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Bigger Pic: Investing Together - eToro’s Vision for Asia

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 01:56:45 +0000

In Singapore’s crowded investment platform space, standing out takes more than just low fees or a slick interface. Yaki Razmovich, Managing Director of eToro Singapore and Asia, discusses how the platform is redefining what it means to invest in a connected world. We look at the rise of social investing and the distinct habits of Asian retail investors, to the technologies set to reshape the next wave of fintech.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: AI, Rate Cuts, and Record Highs - Mapping the Market’s Next Move

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 01:53:55 +0000

U.S. stocks have surged to fresh records, with the S&P 500 breaking above 6,500 for the first time, powered by resilience in tech and optimism around Fed policy. Nvidia’s blockbuster growth highlights the relentless demand for AI chips, while upward GDP revisions underscore the scale of corporate investment in software and equipment. At the same time, small caps are outperforming as markets price in a faster pace of Fed rate cuts. Sonu Varghese, Vice President & Global Macro Strategist at Carson Group, unpacks the signals behind the rally.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: The entrepreneur behind Asia’s creative revolution

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 01:04:08 +0000

Every September, Singapore transforms into a playground of speed, spectacle, and culture. But before the engines roar for Formula 1, another stage sets the tone, a festival where music, gaming, sports, and entertainment collide, where ideas spark, careers launch, and moments become legendary.

On this episode of Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show goes behind the scenes with Jasper Donat, CEO and co-founder of Branded, to explore 20 years of Asia’s most influential creative platforms, and what’s the next big frontier for the entertainment landscape.

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Companies To Watch: China’s Nvidia? Spotlight on Cambricon and the AI chip race

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 00:30:52 +0000

In the midst of Nvidia’s latest earnings and the global AI boom, a new contender is making waves in China.

Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar dive into the story of Cambricon Technologies, a homegrown AI chipmaker challenging international giants. From meteoric revenue growth to partnerships with Tencent and ByteDance, they explore how Cambricon is carving its place in the high-stakes AI market, the investment potential, and what it means for investors and tech enthusiasts alike.

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Breakfast Quiz: That's a wrap for August 2025! How well do you know the headlines?

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 23:28:46 +0000

Another month has come and gone! From Singapore’s SG60 celebrations to Taylor Swift’s engagement and even the surprising Johor quakes, August 2025 was packed with big headlines. Have you been following the news? Let’s see how well you know this month’s big topics.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang and Emaad Akhtar

Produced and edited by Audrey Siek

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Bites: Eat what you want, pay what you can - are you on board?

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 03:13:53 +0000

"Eat what you want, pay what you can."

Several times a year, a restaurant in Mexico City applies this principle for its patrons to ensure that its Michelin-starred dishes are available even to those who wouldn't otherwise have been able to afford them.

Listen in to Breakfast Bites to find out more!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Dan Koh

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: The real currency in marketing is… authenticity

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 00:49:19 +0000

A report from impact.com and Cube Asia shows that micro and nano influencers are steadily earning consumer trust, even as bigger creators face skepticism across Southeast Asia.

These smaller-scale voices are emerging as powerful partners for brands that want genuine, measurable connections.

Adam Furness, Managing Director for APAC at impact.com, unpacks how these shifts are reshaping the rules of marketing.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

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KPMG - Be in Front: People - At the Heart of Transformation

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 00:30:00 +0000

In this episode of Be In Front, a special series in partnership with KPMG in Singapore, we explore how people are the true differentiator for businesses navigating change.

Shelley Chan, Partner of People, Performance and Culture at KPMG in Singapore, shares her journey from Edinburgh to Singapore, and how saying “yes” to opportunities shaped her global perspective. She discusses what agility looks like in practice, how to balance breadth with depth in talent development, and why putting people at the centre of transformation is key to building resilient, future-ready organisations. From global mobility to purpose-driven growth, Shelley unpacks how businesses can nurture talent that not only adapts to disruption but also helps lead the way.

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Companies To Watch: Weight loss but profits up with Eli Lilly

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 00:03:11 +0000

Obesity treatments are evolving, and one pharmaceutical giant is making headlines with a tiny but mighty pill. Eli Lilly, a company with over 140 years of history in innovation, is stepping into uncharted territory with its oral GLP-1 weight-loss drug, orforglipron—a potential game-changer in a market dominated by injectables.

Join Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they tear down the story behind the company, the science behind orforglipron, and what it means for investors and the future of healthcare.

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US Markets Wrap: Nvidia earnings beat, but stocks fall

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 23:40:55 +0000

Kyle Rodda, Senior Financial Market Analyst at capital.com discusses Nvidia's tepid revenue forecast for the current period, fueling concerns that a massive run-up in artificial intelligence (AI) spending is slowing.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Bigger Pic: China’s Market Rally: Boom or Bust?

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 05:28:22 +0000

Despite mounting pressure from US tariffs and a lingering property crisis, Chinese stocks are on a tear. In the past month alone, onshore equities have surged by nearly a trillion dollars in value. The Shanghai Composite has reached a decade-high and the CSI 300 has moved into bull market territory. Behind the market’s exuberance, economic indicators such as weak consumption, falling home prices, and sluggish inflation are flashing warning signs. Vasu Menon, Managing Director of Investment Strategy at OCBC Bank, unpacks the disconnect between China’s fragile economy and its surging markets and explores what it could mean for investors.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Markets shake off Trump's latest attack on central bank

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 02:21:09 +0000

Christine Short, Vice President of Research, Wall Street Horizon discusses how markets are reacting to Trump's stepping up of pressure on the Central Bank with his decision to fire Fed Governor Lisa Cook over allegations of mortgage loan fraud. She also examines how retailers are coping with tariffs and where consumer spending sentiment is heading.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: The startup that wants to end loneliness in Singapore

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 01:12:54 +0000

With rents soaring and remote work on the rise, young adults in Singapore are paying more but often getting less. In fact A 2023 McKinsey study found that one in three Gen Z and Millennial adults report feeling always or often lonely.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show invites Casa Mia Coliving co-founders, Eugenio Ferrante and Ahmed Nizar, who are rethinking housing by focusing on something often overlooked: belonging. From their psychology-based housemate matching to simple shared rituals, they share how they’ve built one of the fastest-growing coliving companies in Singapore, and why they believe the future of housing is as much about community as convenience.

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Morning Shot: Fires at home - Protecting Lives, Homes and Legal Rights

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 00:21:02 +0000

Fatal fires in Singapore are on the rise, with at least eight deaths reported so far this year. From faulty batteries to kitchen accidents, the risks are varied and often overlooked until tragedy strikes. But beyond knowing how to react in an emergency, another question looms: what happens if your home, or your neighbour’s, is damaged in a fire?

David Sun, Crime Correspondent at The Straits Times & Justin Chan, Managing Partner, Justin Chan Chambers LLP join the Breakfast Show to unpack why fire-related deaths are climbing, what the most common household risks are today, and the legal questions that follow in a fire’s aftermath.

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Breakfast Bites: Be honest... have you lied on your résumé?

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 23:53:19 +0000

Fluent in French? Proficient in Excel? When it comes to our CVs, everyone’s added a little polish, right? The hope is always that it won’t come up or they won’t put you to the test... but a survey by FlexJobs found that 1 in 3 workers admit to lying on their résumés.

The Breakfast Show chats about the most common fibs, and what to do instead!

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Should investors buy into the new King of Southeast Asia?

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 23:35:12 +0000

Not too long ago, the crown jewel of Southeast Asia’s markets was a bank. DBS symbolised stability, trust, and the financial backbone of Singapore. But today, that story is changing.

Sea Group, the tech giant behind Shopee, Garena, and SeaMoney, has just overtaken DBS to become Southeast Asia’s most valuable publicly traded company.

This isn’t just a shuffle on the leaderboard. It’s a symbol of something bigger: the digital economy in Southeast Asia isn’t just catching up, it’s redefining who leads, who scales, and who sets the pace for the future.

Join Dan Koh and Audrey Siek on this whirlwind tour of Sea’s latest performance as they decipher what it means when a tech startup-turned-super app eclipses a century-old financial powerhouse, where the next growth curves lie, and how long Sea can hold onto the crown.

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Bigger Pic: Aviation sector resilient despite major headwinds

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 04:58:58 +0000

Subhas Menon, Director General, Association of Asia Pacific Airlines, discusses the airline sector's ongoing resilience in the form of strong passenger and cargo growth numbers, aided by lower fuel costs; headwinds affecting supply chains including tariffs and conflicts; and the industry outlook for the remaining of 2025.

Produced & Presented by Emaad Akhtar

Photo Credit: The Straits Times

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Breakfast Bites: Did you know that dogs can sense the Earth's magnetic field?

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 03:37:48 +0000

Did you know that dogs were the very first animals to be domesticated by humans? Or that they can sense the Earth's magnetic field?

If you'd like to find out more about these and other fun facts, "paw-lease" tune in to Breakfast Bites on International Dog Day!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Trump says US may take stakes in other firms like Intel deal

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 02:39:25 +0000

Michele Schneider, Chief Strategist, MarketGauge Group discusses the takeaways for wider markets with the Trump administration taking a 10 percent stake in chipmaker Intel. This comes as White House economic advisor Kevin Hassett says this is part of a broader strategy to create a sovereign wealth fund that could include more companies. She also takes a closer look at Nvidia ahead of its earnings, and why she still like Novo Nordisk despite recent negative headlines.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang
Image by 3D Animation Production Company from Pixabay

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Mind Your Business: How SōngHè is Reinventing a Heritage Staple with SōngHè Plus

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 01:32:54 +0000

For over 30 years, SōngHè has been more than just a rice brand in Singapore — it’s been a symbol of comfort, care, and tradition at the dinner table. What started as a family business has grown into a household name, trusted for its consistency across generations. Now, SongHe is entering a new chapter with the launch of SōngHè Plus, Singapore’s first enriched fragrant rice fortified with fibre, iron, zinc and folate.

Ally Ng, Marketing Director at SōngHè joins the Breakfast Show to unpack how she balances her father’s legacy with her own vision for the brand. From innovating without losing the familiar taste, to explaining what “enriched rice” really means, to charting the future of SongHe, Ally shares her entrepreneurial lessons on carrying a heritage brand into the next generation.

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Bigger Pic: Powell signals for rate cuts, citing jobs risks

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 05:03:09 +0000

Mel Siew as Portfolio Manager, Asia Credit (Public Markets), Muzinich & Co. discusses what's in store for markets as Fed Chair Jerome Powell gives a stronger signal for a rate cut in September's FOMC meeting amid growing risks to the labour market. He also previews Nvidia's earnings report later in the week that could help markets grind to new record highs.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Bites: Is milk a must-have for stronger bones?

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 01:36:12 +0000

We have long been fed the narrative that drinking plenty of milk is a pre-requisite for maintaining a healthy set of bones.

But is it really essential? Emaad and Audrey dissect what the experts are saying.

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Dan Koh

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: How Play Nation went from a Board Game Café to a global Playmaker

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 00:58:09 +0000

In 2009, Play Nation opened its doors as one of Singapore’s first board game cafés, a cosy hangout where friends could gather over food, laughter, and endless rounds of play. What began as a niche idea has since grown into a creative powerhouse that designs toys, builds original IPs, and partners with global icons like Sanrio.

Join the Breakfast Show as they sit down with Kai Jun Wong, Founder and Managing Director of Play Nation, to unpack the entrepreneurial journey behind the brand. From how it all began, to sustaining the business through challenges, to the bold leap into product innovation with the newly launched Sanrio Pikku! A Miniature World, they explore how Play Nation turned play into a serious business, and what entrepreneurs can learn from its story.

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Breakfast Bites: Let’s say you used CDC vouchers to pay for your date. Is that weird?

Sun, 24 Aug 2025 23:44:47 +0000

A viral story on Tiktok has started an online debate; and it’s all about our beloved CDC and SG60 vouchers.

A woman went on a date and decided to pay for the meal when she realised the restaurant accepts vouchers! Score! On the ride back, the guy said it was “embarrassing” that she used the vouchers to pay.

But why? Didn’t the meal get paid for? How would YOU feel?

Audrey, Emaad and Ryan discuss the broader discussion on “voucher etiquette” - is there such a thing?

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang and Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo credit: ST Lim Yaohui

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Rate cut forecasts down; further Fed clues in focus at Jackson Hole

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 13:51:33 +0000

Ryan Detrick, Chief Market Strategist, Carson Group, discusses why investors may not need to be too concerned about a fifth straight day of losses for the S&P 500 and tech stocks; how markets reacted to Walmart earnings; Fed Chair Powell's upcoming speech at Jackson Hole; and latest details about the US-EU trade agreement.

Produced & Presented by Emaad Akhtar

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Breakfast Quiz: You use it daily but how well do you know the Internet's history?

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 13:14:08 +0000

It might be something we use every day, but how well do we know its history?

On this edition of the Breakfast Quiz, Emaad puts Audrey's knowledge of the Internet to the test.

Join in on the fun and see how you fare!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Dan Koh

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: How Spaceman is unlocking the true value of your home

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 01:01:53 +0000

In a city where every square foot counts, how we furnish our homes is more than a style choice. It’s a lifestyle and financial decision.

Join the Breakfast Show as they sit down with Matt Levin, Co-founder & Managing Director, Spaceman, who’s spent 14 years transforming the way Singaporeans live with smart, space-saving furniture. They explore how furniture can adapt to life, unlock hidden value, and redefine the meaning of home.

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Bigger Pic: From Swipe to Strategy - Citi’s Cards-to-Wealth Playbook

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 00:50:00 +0000

From rewards and perks to data-driven insights and personalized experiences, Citi is reimagining the card not just as a payment product, but as a bridge into long-term wealth management. Sanjay Nambiar, Head of International Cards and Unsecured Lending at Citi Wealth shares how Citi is transforming cardholders into wealth clients, the signals they watch for, and what affluent customers really value when it comes to their financial journey

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Companies To Watch: Why fashion giant GUESS is going private

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 00:12:14 +0000

From the mall runways of the 90s to the boardrooms of Wall Street, Guess has always been a brand with flair. But now, it’s making headlines for a very different reason. The fashion retailer has agreed to a $1.4 billion deal to go private, backed by Authentic Brands and its own co-founders.

What does this mean for shareholders cashing out, for the company’s future strategy, and for an industry under pressure?

Dan Koh and Audrey Siek dissect the latest take-private deal, breaking down what’s on the table, why it’s happening now, and how to read between the seams of this high-stakes fashion move.

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US Markets Wrap: Palantir's plunging stock - is the AI theme losing steam?

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 03:27:09 +0000

Ben Emons, Chief Investment Officer, FedWatch Advisors, analyses another gloomy session for tech stocks; Palantir's sliding fortunes and concerns about over-valuation, the highlights from Q2 earnings for Target and Lowe's; and the takeaways from the Fed's July meeting minutes.

Produced & Presented by Emaad Akhtar

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Bigger Pic: Building an "anti-brand" that outshines luxury norms

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 03:15:00 +0000

When most of us buy an expensive jewellery piece, it’s usually a special and personal purchase. But behind the diamonds and designs lies an industry at a crossroads: one rooted in heritage and tradition, yet being pushed to innovate by a new generation of buyers and a digital-first world.

Monil Kothari, Founder and CEO of Haus of Brilliance, shares his perspective on reimagining a 3-generation jewellery legacy, and building an “anti-band” in the luxury space.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek

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Companies To Watch: Will Labubu’s magic keep Pop Mart’s stock flying high?

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 00:43:33 +0000

From toy shelves to trading floors, Pop Mart has shocked investors with a jaw-dropping 400% profit surge in just six months, all thanks to the runaway success of its quirky Labubu dolls. But can this wild ride keep going, or is it a bubble waiting to pop?

Join Dan Koh and Audrey Siek as they unbox the latest earnings, the CEO’s bold ambition to hit 30 billion RMB in sales, the hype around the new mini Labubu, and whether this toy phenomenon has what it takes to turn Pop Mart into a true global brand.

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KPMG - Be in Front: Reputation - Building Trust in Times of Change

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 00:30:00 +0000

In this episode of Be In Front, a special series in partnership with KPMG in Singapore, we explore why Reputation is one of the most valuable assets any business can hold.

Lee Sze Yeng, Managing Partner of KPMG in Singapore, shares her insights from over 30 years of advising some of Singapore’s largest companies and multinationals. From guiding businesses through growth, succession, and reinvention, to helping clients navigate the challenges of AI, ESG, and shifting workforce expectations — she explains how reputation is earned, protected, and sustained.

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US Markets Wrap: Intel's future - is a $2bn Softbank bet and US backing enough?

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 11:20:35 +0000

Nadine Terman, CIO & CEO, Solstein Capital, discusses the latest market sell-off after Big Tech stocks disappoint; Softbank's $2 billion lifeline for Intel and the US government weighing up a potential 10% stake in the chipmaker; what this week's retail earnings could reveal about consumer spending as well as the housing market; and what we can expect at the Jackson Hole Symposium.

Produced & Presented by Emaad Akhtar

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Bigger Pic: Navigating Asia with Quantitative strategies

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 05:48:27 +0000

Markets in Asia are dynamic, fast-growing, and often unpredictable, making it both a land of opportunity and a test of discipline for investors. Quantitative strategies, built on data and systematic models, promise a way to cut through the noise and uncover patterns where human instinct might fall short. But what are the real advantages and the risks of going quant in APAC?

Join Dan Koh as he speaks with Christopher Hughes, Portfolio Manager, Eastspring Investments, to explore how quant investing is reshaping portfolios, what it means for volatility and resilience, and where the next opportunities might lie in the fast-moving region of Asia.

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Mind Your Business: RushOwl’s urban revolution for a greener future

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 01:06:49 +0000

Every city struggles with traffic, pollution, and the daily grind of commuting. But what if shared shuttles powered by AI could ease congestion, cut emissions, and make travel more human?

Join the Breakfast Show as they invite Shin Ng, CEO of RushOwl to discuss how his Singapore-born startup is transforming the way communities move, and why rethinking transport is key to reaching our climate goals.

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Breakfast Bites: Looking tired lately? Good news - it's the new trend!

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 00:48:00 +0000

Feel like you've been looking more tired lately? There’s hope for you yet — because apparently that’s the new beauty goal!

The latest fleeting beauty trend taking over TikTok is the “Tired Girl” makeup look; Dark circles left unhidden, pale skin, and dark shadows. Tutorials for how to look “beautifully exhausted” have racked up hundreds of thousands of views.

So why is this catching on? And is Gen Z onto something good?

Presented by Audrey Siek and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Novo Nordisk strengthens its lead in the metabolic race

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 00:39:34 +0000

The fight against chronic metabolic disease is shifting fast. In the U.S., millions of patients who struggle to afford life-changing treatments like Ozempic may finally see a breakthrough, as Novo Nordisk opens new, cheaper access points for those without insurance.

And just as the affordability conversation takes center stage, another milestone arrives: the FDA has given its nod to GLP-1 receptor targeting for fatty liver disease, approving Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy as only the second-ever treatment for MASH.

What does this mean for patients, healthcare systems, and the future of metabolic medicine?

Join Dan Koh and Audrey Siek as they unpack as they break down what this means for Novo’s growth trajectory, how it impacts competitors, and why the GLP-1 category is fast becoming one of the most important stories in healthcare investing.

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Morning Shot: From Boardrooms to Brooms - Can Corporates Help Keep Singapore Clean?

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 00:35:42 +0000

The Public Hygiene Council has launched a new Train-the-Trainers programme to equip corporate “cleanliness champions” with the skills to rally colleagues and lead clean-up initiatives, with the aim of fostering a stronger culture of shared responsibility.

So why should companies take on responsibility for public cleanliness, and can workplace-led efforts spark lasting change beyond the office? Dr. Christina Liew, Executive Director of the Public Hygiene Council, and Jimmy Yeap, Head of CSR & Employee Engagement at HP, join the Breakfast Show to unpack the goals of the programme, how it’s being put into practice, and what it could mean for Singapore’s hygiene culture.

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Bigger Pic: Are airline listings taking off in the Middle East?

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 04:58:19 +0000

Saudi Arabia has become a hotbed for IPO activity in recent times, with 14 listings during Q2 this year. The largest was the $1.1 billion listing of budget carrier flynas, which represented 44% of total quarterly proceeds.

Could this kickstart a potential resurgence in airline IPOs in the Middle East?

Shukor Yusof, Founder & Analyst, Endau Analytics, weighs in with his thoughts.

Produced & Presented by Emaad Akhtar

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US Markets Wrap: Markets reacting more to good news than bad news

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 02:11:33 +0000

Steve Sosnick, Chief Strategist, Interactive Brokers discusses why investors appear to be more sensitive to good news and reacting less to bad news. This comes as a surprise reading last week in with a +0.9% monthly jump in both the headline and Core Producer Price Index levels - which stocks had generally yawned at.

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Mind Your Business: Why Singapore leads the future of global wealth

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 01:21:24 +0000

When the rules keep shifting and markets grow more uncertain, where does wealth go to feel safe? In a world where investors once chased the lowest taxes, today’s globally mobile families are seeking something different - predictability, clarity, and resilience.

According to The Wealth Report 2025: The Taxed Generation by Multipolitan, only one city on the planet ranks in the global top five for tax favourability, wealth preservation, and future readiness: Singapore.

Join the Breakfast Show as they speak to Nirbhay Handa, CEO of Multipolitan, about why Singapore stands alone, how climate and digital infrastructure are reshaping the map of global wealth, and why stability, not incentives, has become the new benchmark.

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Breakfast Bites: All by yourself - Solo travel is now the new big thing!

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 00:47:20 +0000

Is it time to pack your bags and go on an adventure alone? Today, we focus on solo trips! More and more people are becoming fans of this trend; with a new study by Scoot showing that 79% of Singaporean respondents took multiple solo trips in the past year.

Find out the top choice for these lone adventurers, and how YOU can plan your first solo trip.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: How much could a US IPO unlock for Klook?

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 23:45:16 +0000

There’s a new travel contender in town! Klook, a Hong Kong-based online travel agency and experiences platform, is poised to capitalize on structural shifts with its U.S. IPO, tapping on the $1 trillion market fueled by pent-up demand and a surge in tech-driven personalization.

Take a journey into the world of post-pandemic travel with Dan Koh and …. as they take a deeper dive into Klook’s IPO filing and ponder over the investment case and risks and opportunities of this highly anticipated IPO!

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Breakfast Bites: Want to boost your attention span? Head out for a nature walk!

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 04:01:24 +0000

Learning a language, getting a good night's rest, doing crossword puzzles. These are a few of the ways in which we can improve our attention spans.

Nature walks can help too. If you're lucky enough to be living near a park or green area, make an effort to go for a stroll so you don't miss out on the cognitive benefits!

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey share what the experts are saying.

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: National Day Rally 2025 - Economic Takeaways

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 02:37:02 +0000

In his second National Day Rally speech as prime minister, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong acknowledged the disruptive potential of new technology like AI, while outlining plans to strengthen job-matching services so Singaporeans do not fall behind, and also how tariffs will impact Singapore .Selena Ling, Chief Economist & Head of Global Markets Research & Strategy, OCBC discusses the key economic takeaways from his speech.

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Mind Your Business: What it takes to scale seamless experience at large-scale events

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 00:56:55 +0000

Singapore’s concerts and festivals are bigger and more electrifying than ever, but delivering a seamless experience for tens of thousands of attendees is no easy feat.

Join the Breakfast Show as they speak with Chandrakant Singh, Chief Investment & Revenue Officer at PouchNATION to explore the stories behind the screens and the technology shaping the future of hospitality and events.

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Morning Shot: Jobs, Tech, and Transformation - Unpacking National Day Rally 2025

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 00:34:20 +0000

In his National Day Rally speech, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong called innovation and technology an “overarching priority,” announced new support for SMEs to harness AI, and rolled out initiatives from town-level job matching to expanded SkillsFuture training. He also unveiled bold redevelopment plans for Singapore’s north, from new housing in Kranji to a transformed Woodlands regional centre alongside coastal protection measures.

So what do these announcements mean for workers, businesses, and families? Dr. Reuben Ng, Behavioural and Data Scientist at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at NUS and Goh Yan Han, Political Correspondent at The Straits Times, join the Breakfast Show to break down the top takeaways and what they signal about Singapore’s next stage of growth.

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Companies To Watch: Should investors buy into Intel’s move toward nationalization?

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 00:26:41 +0000

2025 has been a rollercoaster ride for Intel. From a corporate leadership and cultural revamp, to criticisms by US President Trump on CEO Lip-Bu Tan’s earlier ties to China, this has evolved into the US government possibly having a stake in the company! So what could a government support mean for the lagging chipmaker? And how should investors be reading this latest update?

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they take a deeper analysis into Intel’s latest development and find out if this is enough to help regain its industry leadership in today’s landscape.

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Bigger Pic: Singapore's evolution as a hub for asset management

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 04:16:57 +0000

As Singapore marks SG60, there’s plenty to celebrate in terms of what has been achieved but also more transformation to look forward to in the coming decades. Neil Synnott, Chief Commercial Officer, IQ-EQ Asia explores how Singapore is positioning itself as a leading hub for asset and wealth management, how investors can navigate evolving opportunities and challenges, and which trends are likely to define the next ten years.

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Breakfast Quiz: We used to put maggots in a top fave dish! Can you guess which??

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 04:02:32 +0000

As we continue to focus on the big milestone of SG60, let's turn to our favourite topic: Food! What makes Singapore special on the culinary front?

Audrey quizzes Ryan on some historical facts, plus surprising tidbits about some of our most beloved dishes. Play along!

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Dan Koh

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: From tonic traditions to entrepreneurial transformation

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 01:23:11 +0000

What happens when you take a decades-old wellness brand and give it a bold, modern twist? From herbal tonics passed down through generations to sleek sachets for today’s busy lifestyles, Huiji’s story is one of heritage meeting innovation.

Join the Breakfast Show as they sit down with Alex Chow, second-generation owner of Huiji, to uncover how he’s transforming a trusted Traditional Chinese Medicine brand into a modern wellness powerhouse, without losing the roots that made it special.

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Companies To Watch: Brewing profits with Carlsberg

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 00:46:18 +0000

Beer isn’t just for happy hour, it’s big business. And few names are as storied as Carlsberg, the Danish brewing giant with a frothy history and a complex financial story bubbling beneath the surface. From shifting consumer tastes to navigating global markets, Carlsberg’s performance says a lot about the future of the beverage industry.

Join Dan Koh and Audrey Siek on a pint-sized deep dive into Carlsberg’s stock and business performance, where they pour over the numbers, swirl in market trends, and serve up insights with a crisp, refreshing twist.

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US Markets Wrap: Buying on dips amid the noise & data around inflation

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 00:10:52 +0000

Jason Britton, Founder and CIO, Reflection Asset Management discusses the whipsaw session where markets initially sold off based on a disappointing Producer Price Index report, but rebounded as investors showed willingness to buy the dip, with the S&P turning positive at the end of the session to squeeze out a new record high for a third day in a row.

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US Markets Wrap: Why calls for a jumbo rate cut may be unrealistic

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 06:29:59 +0000

Josh Gilbert, Market Analyst, eToro discusses how much justification there is for US Treasury Scott Bessent to call for a 50 bps rate cut in September, with a view that short-term interest rates should be between 1.5 percentage points and 1.75 percentage points lower than their current level. He weighs whether the Federal Reserve will bow to the rising pressure from the Trump administration.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Bigger Pic: A slice of history - Heritage brand Lana Cakes shares their recipe for success

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 01:32:57 +0000

As we continue to mark and celebrate SG60, we take a look at the businesses that have grown alongside the nation. Heritage brands aren’t just keepers of tradition; the most successful ones are also innovators, finding fresh ways to stay relevant while staying true to their roots.

Jason Kwan, 2nd Generation Owner of Lana Cakes, tells us how he has been steering Lana Cakes into the future, while ensuring its soul remains intact.

Produced, edited and presented by Audrey Siek

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Breakfast Bites: Why are we so bad at accepting compliments?

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 01:26:20 +0000

How do you think you deal with compliments? Here in Asia, most of us will try to downplay or reject whatever nice things are being said to us - instead of just saying “Thanks,” we’ll mumble something like, “Nah, I didn’t do much.” or “no no”...

Audrey and Ryan unpack why this happens, what we can do to compliment others better, but also how to maybe better accept people's praises!

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Dan Koh

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: How ZipZap is redefining the way Singapore drives

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 01:01:24 +0000

In a city where COE prices soar higher than the cars themselves, the dream of ownership is slipping away. But what if driving could be flexible, affordable, and commitment-free?

On this episode of Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show speaks to Toh Ting Feng, co-founder of GetGo and creator of ZipZap, the subscription service that’s carving out a new lane between renting and owning. They explore how it could change the way Singapore moves, and why the future of driving might not involve owning at all.

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Companies To Watch: How Haw Par Corporation is soothing investors’ market woes

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 00:40:47 +0000

If you’ve ever suffered from any form of muscle pain or joint pain, you’ve probably heard of or have used the iconic Tiger Balm ointment known for its magical pain relieving effects. And today, it seems like people are using more of it! That’s after parent company Haw Par Corporation reported an 18.2 percent rise in net profit for its first quarter earnings results.

Join Dan Koh and Audrey Siek as they unwrap Haw Par’s latest financial results and find out why the Tiger Balm brand might actually be worth more than what investors are making it today.

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Bigger Pic: Singapore’s 2025 Outlook: Reading between the forecast lines

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 03:34:11 +0000

Singapore’s economy has posted a surprisingly strong first half in 2025, with growth driven by a mix of manufacturing, services, and construction - and a rush of exports ahead of looming U.S. tariffs. But with a wide forecast range and trade risks still in play, how should we read the signals for the rest of the year? Barnabas Gan, Group Chief Economist & Head, Market Research, RHB Bank unpacks the numbers, the risks, and the strategies shaping Singapore’s growth outlook.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Cash-rich & retail flow investors chasing momentum

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 03:25:54 +0000

Alex Morris, CEO & CIO, F/m Investments explains how the current rally isn’t driven by conviction, but instead it is cash-rich and retail flow investors chasing momentum, aided by structured products and index flows. He shares why while there are short term momentum wins are to be had, longer term, he prefers diversification to concentration.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Bites: Ready for another holiday? Watch for these "hidden" tourist fees!

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 01:17:13 +0000

We all know this feeling... booking a vacation thinking you’ve budgeted perfectly, only to get there and get hit with some mysterious “extra charge”.

From transaction fees, resort fees and tipping culture, there are quite a few of these hidden fees lurking in popular travel spots. Here are some top ones to bear in mind —so you’re ready for the next vacation!

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Morning Shot: Behind Singapore’s Workplace Injury Claims

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 01:09:43 +0000

A recent workplace injury claim involving salad chain Sumo Salad has stirred public debate about whether Singapore’s compensation system is vulnerable to abuse and what protections exist for small business owners. But new figures from the Ministry of Manpower show that 94% of such claims are actually paid out by insurers, not employers. So how does the Work Injury Compensation Act (WICA) really work? How are fraudulent claims detected? And what should both employers and workers know before making or handling a claim?

Jonathan Yuen, Head of Employment & Commercial Litigation at Rajah & Tann, and Ang Yuit, President of the Association of Small and Medium Enterprises join the Breakfast Show to unpack how Singapore’s workplace injury claims process works, how long it typically takes, and what safeguards are in place to protect against misuse.

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Mind Your Business: How Ember and Ash grew from passion to profit

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 00:58:25 +0000

In a marketplace dominated by mass production, Ember & Ash stands out by staying true to its creative roots and emotional storytelling.

The Breakfast Show chats with Colette Chan, founder of Ember & Ash, about the evolution of her business, the importance of authentic design, and the lessons learned while building a brand that resonates deeply with families everywhere.

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Companies To Watch: What Starhub’s acquisition of MyRepublic mean for investors

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 23:40:36 +0000

In the latest of the ever evolving telco landscape, Singapore’s second-largest mobile operator Starhub recently announced that it will be taking full ownership of MyRepublic's broadband business! And that comes one day after the years-long speculation of StarHub acquiring M1 from Keppel was invalidated when the asset manager announced its proposed sale of the telco to Simba Telecom.

How should investors be digesting news of Starhub’s latest acquisition? And what could this mean for the iconic green star’s strategic positioning in this highly competitive landscape? Find out with Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they tear down the details.

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US Markets Wrap: Markets have potential to grind higher

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 03:57:07 +0000

Joseph Shaposhnik, founder and CEO of Rainwater Equity zooms in on the positive news from the software industry and AI beneficiaries in the latest earnings season, He discusses why he likes Constellation Software and Microsoft.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: What happens when a psychologist plays the market

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 01:17:22 +0000

Singapore’s 60-year journey has been a masterclass in adaptability, a trait shared by the innovators shaping its future. Few reflect this better than James Leong, who made the leap from organisational psychology to the high-stakes world of proprietary trading.

Now CEO of Grasshopper, he has guided the firm from a two-person start-up into a fintech player with regional influence. The Breakfast Show invites James on the show to explore the story behind that bold career shift, the tech-driven strategies powering Grasshopper, and what it takes to succeed in an industry that never stands still.

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Breakfast Bites: Do you have the post-holiday blues? Here's how to beat it!

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 23:51:46 +0000

It's hard to describe the feeling after a nice vacation... a weird combination of sluggishness, mild dread, and wishing you could rewind to Saturday. Congratulations, you might just have the post-holiday blues. It's something we've all probably experienced, and the "depression" can hit hard. How do we manage it? Is this a feeling that can be avoided?

Audrey and Ryan discuss the ways you can "game" your mind and get back to the routine with minimal pain.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: The AI company suffering ‘catastrophic’ losses

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 23:31:14 +0000

It’s a company once touted as a rising star in enterprise artificial intelligence. But all it took was one quarter to change it all for C3.ai - a company that serves a broad global client base in sectors from energy to financial services and healthcare.

Join Dan Koh and Audrey Siek as they investigate the ‘catastrophic’ quarter that C3.ai is faced with and what red flags are analysts flagging about the stock today.

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Bigger Pic: Tariff implications for inflation

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 03:58:41 +0000

Phan Vee Leung, CIO, Trackrecord, discusses how much the kicking in of tariffs will figure in this week's inflation reading in the US Consumer Price Index data for July. He looks at how markets are pricing in the expectations, and explains why they continue to hit new highs as well as where to buy on the dips.

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Mind Your Business: Meet the Unsung Heroes Who Keep Singapore Going

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 01:23:51 +0000

As Singapore marks its 60th birthday, the My Community Festival is turning the spotlight on the country’s “unsung economic heroes” — the hawkers, craftsmen, farmers, and family-run businesses who keep our cultural and economic fabric alive.

Kwek Li Yong, Co-founder and Executive Director of My Community, joins the Breakfast Show to share how these everyday players in Singapore’s cultural economy are adapting to modern challenges, and why supporting them matters now more than ever.

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Breakfast Bites: How well do you know the lyrics to our most beloved NDP songs?

Sun, 10 Aug 2025 23:57:24 +0000

As the SG60 weekend winds down, our minds are probably still on the NDP concert that was filled with our most familiar tunes we have been singing for decades. No, we don't mean our National Anthem, but our mainstay national day songs we listen to and sing in unison every year.

Can Singapore count on you to know these lyrics? Are we One People, One Nation, One Singapore? Let's play "finish the lyric"!

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo credit: ST Photo Gavin Foo

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Bigger Pic: Singapore banks post mixed Q2 report cards

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 04:30:10 +0000

Singapore's big 3 banks are bracing for macroeconomic uncertainty following mixed quarterly results. DBS outperformed its peers in Q2, helping its share prices hit new highs. On the other hand, OCBC and UOB missed expectations. With tariff headwinds on the horizon, what does the rest of the year hold? Danny Khoo, Head of Sales Trading, SAXO Singapore shares more.

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US Markets Wrap: Markets continue to push through "wall of worry”

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 03:51:40 +0000

David Abella, Director of Investments, GoalVest reviews how much momentum is behind the recent marke run, against wall of worries -including: a rich S&P 500 valuation of 22.2X, relatively high tariffs that are now in force (which can cause stagflation), and continued tariff uncertainly especially with China, India, Mexico, and Canada.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image: Pete Linforth from Pixabay

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Breakfast Quiz: National Day special! How well do you know our little red dot?

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 02:14:51 +0000

This edition of the Breakfast Quiz has a special, 60-year-old ring to it.

National Day is nearly upon us, and as Singapore celebrates a milestone year in its history, Emaad tests Ryan and Audrey on how well they know our little red dot, all the way from the 1960s to the present day!

Play along in the SG60 spirit! Happy birthday Singapore!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: The future of SME funding and digital transformation

Fri, 08 Aug 2025 01:08:36 +0000

For many entrepreneurs, failure is the beginning—not the end. Jack Yang’s story begins with personal hardship and early business loss, but evolves into a mission to empower SMEs with the right tools, governance, and funding strategies.

The Breakfast Show sits down with Jack Yang to unpack his journey, his work across JYSigma and GTH Asia, and how he’s helping businesses rise through discipline, data, and deep-rooted impact.

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US Markets Wrap: Keep an eye on market breadth

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 06:26:56 +0000

Frank Cappelleri, Founder and President, CappThesis discusses what the fundamentals and technicals are indicating about market momentum. He also shares how he is approaching investing in energy and gold, against the tariff environment.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Bites: Unpacking the Tiktok trend - is "fibremaxxing" a good idea?

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 01:16:06 +0000

How much fibre do you eat in a day? We’re digging into the latest health trend that’s blowing up on social media: it’s called "Fibremaxxing", and TikTokers are loading up on fibre of all kinds.... all in the name of digestive health.

But it’s not just about getting the daily recommended amount, but sometimes going way beyond it.

Is this just another wellness fad, or is there something to it?

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Sustainable finance remains robust in SEA despite headwinds. What's the secret?

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 01:11:48 +0000

Despite global headwinds in ESG, Southeast Asia’s sustainable finance market is still going strong. What is Southeast Asia is getting right?

Kevin Lee, Group Head of Sustainability at CGS International, gives us a closer look at how innovation is powering real, credible change in sustainable finance.

Produced, edited and presented by Audrey Siek

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Morning Shot: Spending with Purpose - A Look at SG60 and CDC Vouchers

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 00:36:02 +0000

From helping households cope with rising costs to celebrating Singapore’s 60th birthday, government vouchers have become a familiar form of support. But with some using their CDC and SG60 vouchers on items like AirPods or gaming consoles, questions have surfaced: Is there a “right” way to spend them?

Terence Ho, Associate Professor (Practice) at the Institute for Adult Learning, Singapore University of Social Sciences joins the Breakfast Show to take a closer look at how Singaporeans are using their SG60 and CDC vouchers and what the public conversation reveals about expectations around fairness, spending, and support.

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Bigger Pic: Thailand-Cambodia Conflict: What’s at Stake?

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 04:16:37 +0000

A fragile truce between Thailand and Cambodia continues to hold, following days of deadly border clashes. Erica Tay, Director of Macro Research at Maybank discusses how serious the standoff is and why investors should be paying attention to it.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Bites: Wanna burn 600 calories in an hour? Go scuba diving!

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 04:08:47 +0000

Did you know that approximately 71% of the Earth's surface is covered by water?

There's a whole other world under the sea - so much to explore and experience.

If you're a deep sea diver, or aspire to be one, listen in to this episode of Breakfast Bites!

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey share some fun facts about scuba diving on International Scuba Day!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Turning ink into income

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 01:44:07 +0000

In a city built on structure, forging a path in art can feel like rebellion. But what if your future lives somewhere outside the frame?

The Breakfast Show sits down with Cyann Lee, founder of HEYCYANN to find out how she’s building a life from creativity, turning a niche art form into a powerful personal brand, with nothing but bold vision, raw skill, and a refusal to fit the mould.

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US Markets Wrap: Deregulation could be next catalyst for markets

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 01:04:51 +0000

Todd Rabold, Investment Management Partner, Callan Family Office discusses how the Trump administration will focus on deregulation once the tariff discussions are completed. He expects financial, energy and technology companies to be among the beneficiaries.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Staying long still a play for investors despite tariff uncertainty

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 09:35:40 +0000

José Torres, Senior Economist, Interactive Brokers, explains why stocks rebounded on Monday following Friday's steep losses; what recent weak economic data means for interest rates moving forward; the rational behind OPEC+'s decision to boost oil output; and how investors should position themselves in August - an historically weak month for markets.

Produced / Presented: Emaad Akhtar

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Mind Your Business: Breaking the menopause silence

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 01:04:49 +0000

Midlife isn’t a pause, it’s a pivot. And for many women, it begins with changes they were never truly prepared for. Hot flashes, brain fog, mood swings, and little attention from the healthcare system

But that’s starting to change, as more women refuse to suffer in silence and demand support for this vital life stage.

The Breakfast Show welcomes Grace Oh, Founder of Sol, to explore how she’s helping women across Asia reframe menopause as a season of renewal, not decline.

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Morning Shot: Singapore Forms 5 New Committees to Shape its Economic Future

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 01:02:02 +0000

On August 4, Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong announced a major new review of Singapore’s long-term economic strategy. Five new committees have been formed to tackle challenges ranging from global competitiveness and tech innovation, to entrepreneurship, workforce resilience, and economic restructuring. What does this move signal about the pain points facing Singapore’s economy today? And how might this strategy reshape opportunities for businesses and workers over the next decade?

Song Seng Wun, Economic Advisor at CGS International joins the Breakfast Show to unpack what’s driving this strategic reset and what pain points Singapore must confront to remain resilient in an increasingly volatile global landscape

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Breakfast Bites: Struggling to hit your daily step goal? Don't fret - 7,000 is the new 10,000!

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 23:30:29 +0000

Hands up if you obsessively track your steps everyday, like me. Most of us have a famous goal - 10,000 steps a day.

This would take non-stop walking for at least an hour; and for the average person, it’s about 8 kilometres of walking. For a lot of us, it may seem out of reach. But if you’ve been falling short, here’s some good news: you might not need that many after all! A brand-new global study found that 7,000 steps a day is the new golden number.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Bites: Giannis Antetokounmpo - can you pronounce this NBA star's name?

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 09:06:02 +0000

It's time for another episode in the commonly mispronounced series - and today we turn our attention to the world of professional sport.

The reality is, some athletes just have difficult names to get right the first time.

The Breakfast Show crew dive into some of them, from the world of Formula 1, basketball, soccer and tennis!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Impact of reciprocal tariffs on Singapore

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 02:46:02 +0000

Global markets were shaken up last Friday, after US President Donald Trump’s tariffs barrage against nearly all US trading partners. Dozens of economies, including Singapore, will face new tariff rates of between 10 and 41 per cent from August 7th. Vishnu Varathan, Head of Economics & Strategy, Asia at Mizuho Bank discusses how Singapore will be able to weather the headwinds of slower growth and potentially higher import costs.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: How Banyan Group became a global brand with heart

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 01:54:49 +0000

What began as a bold idea on a disused tin mine in Phuket has grown into one of Asia’s most respected hospitality brands. Founded in 1994, Banyan Group redefined what luxury could look and feel like - sustainable, rooted in local culture, and deeply restorative.

As Singapore celebrates 60 years of nationhood, The Breakfast Show is turning the spotlight on homegrown businesses that have made their mark on the world while staying true to their values.

Join them as they invite Ho Kwon Ping, Founder & Executive Chairman, Banyan Group to explore the origins of his entrepreneurial journey, the philosophy that shaped his global empire, and what it takes to grow a business without losing its soul.

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Bigger Pic: OCBC Q2 profit drops 7% as rates fall, to pay lower interim dividend

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 03:13:59 +0000

Sarah Jane Mahmud, senior analyst with Bloomberg Intelligence discusses how much OCBC's results were weighed down by falling net interest margins, and how much tariffs will affect the outlook for loans growth. She also shares why OCBC's overseas exposure is worth watching.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Markets unfazed by latest FOMC meeting

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 02:55:11 +0000

Daniel Tan, Portfolio Manager, Grasshopper Asset Management unpacks the main takeaways from the July FOMC meeting which saw no rate cuts as widely expected. He also looks at how much tariffs are driving the rate policy path and market sentiment.

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Mind Your Business: Singapore’s recruiting game has changed as companies look beyond the résumé

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 00:53:34 +0000

Singapore’s job market isn’t frozen — it’s evolving. As hiring slows down, companies are shifting from reactive recruitment to strategic talent acquisition.
Whether you're hiring or job-hunting, it’s important to know how businesses are rethinking fit, why leadership roles are harder to fill, and what innovation really looks like in today’s hiring landscape.
Joshua Woo, Founder of Recruit Fast, tells us more about why precision hiring is now the next big thing.

Produced and presented by Audrey Siek
Edited by Trisha Yeong

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Breakfast Quiz: It’s Int’l Beer Day! Celebrate the drink’s "lager-than-life" popularity with us.

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 23:58:09 +0000

It’s time for our Friday quiz here on the Breakfast Show, and maybe also time to grab yourself a pint on International Beer Day!

The world marks this every year on the first Friday of August to celebrate the most consumed alcoholic beverage on the planet.

Let’s see how much you know about the drink we love so much!

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Fed Chair Powell pours cold water on Sept cut hopes

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 06:13:16 +0000

Damian McIntyre, Head of Multi-Asset Solutions, Federated Hermes discusses what the lower prospects of a rate cut will mean for markets, as uncertainty over the impact of tariffs loom. He also highlights the largely positive earnings season so far, where about 75 percent of companies that have reported have beaten expectations.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Special: Do low-cost carriers have the budget to survive?

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 02:48:42 +0000

It's the end of an era.

After 20 years in operation, Jetstar Asia is bidding farewell to the Singapore market on July 31st. The airline cited rising costs and competition key reasons for its departure.

And the proof is in the pudding. Because only six of those 20 years were profitable.

It certainly raises some questions about the viability of the low-cost carrier model, especially at higher-cost airports like Changi.

Brendan Sobie, Independent Analyst & Consultant, Sobie Aviation, joins Breakfast Special to explore this theme.

Produced, Presented & Edited by Emaad Akhtar

Photo credit: Jetstar Asia

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Breakfast Bites: Would you still click on a link after reading an AI summary?

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 02:11:22 +0000

Google has been a game changer for all internet users. Recent number suggest there are 5 TRILLION searches on Google annually. And the results typically manifest in the form of clickable links to websites.

But you would've noticed a slight change within the past year. Now, instead of links, we see AI summaries, or what the company calls "AI Overviews."

They might be more convenient, but they're also re-directing much-needed traffic away from sites.

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey explore further.

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Want to know how many leave days you have left? Ask an HR AI Chatbot.

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 01:33:41 +0000

We’re in a world where AI is transforming our lives in multiple ways - including how we reach customers and appeal to new markets, while also heavily influencing the products being developed.

One great example comes from JustLogin — a homegrown HR management software company that has taken a bold step by rolling out an AI-powered chatbot for its clients, and is using new tools to market this chatbot.

Hariz Maloy, Head of Marketing, JustLogin talks about the power of AI in both marketing and in HR technology.

Produced, edited and presented by Audrey Siek

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Mind Your Business: Making luxury homes work for you

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 01:15:46 +0000

Want to stay in a luxury villa in Provence or a cliffside home in Costa Rica, all without paying a cent in rent? That’s what ThirdHome offers its members. It’s not a timeshare, not a swap, but a private exchange built on trust, quality, and a clever credit system.

The Breakfast Show invites Wade Shealy, Founder, Chairman & CEO of ThirdHome to discuss how he turned the problem of unused second homes into a passport to the world.

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Bigger Pic: MAS flags slower growth in H2, what's next for markets?

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 03:01:46 +0000

Francis Tan, Chief Strategist, Asia, Indosuez Wealth Management discusses how much growth has been frontloaded into the economy ahead of tariffs kicking in, and how much markets in the second half will reflect the slowdown.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: How Lilac Oak changed plant-based dining

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 01:18:22 +0000

Before it became one of Singapore’s most beloved plant-based cafés, Lilac Oak began as something smaller, a daughter cooking quietly for her mother. Today, Lilac Oak is known for its soulful food, wholesome community, and a menu that bridges comfort and creativity.

The Breakfast Show invites Chloe Lee, Founder & Culinary Director, Lilac Oak to explore how she turned a personal philosophy into a thriving food space, what it means to build a values-led business, and why intention might just be the most important ingredient of all.

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Morning Shot: What if you lost your job tomorrow?

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 01:15:45 +0000

Singapore’s unemployment rate may be low but behind the numbers are stories of struggle, reinvention, and quiet resilience. As layoffs rise and AI reshapes how people apply for jobs, many Singaporeans are finding that traditional job search tactics are no longer enough. Many are finding that polished résumés and persistence no longer guarantee results.

Teo Kai Xiang, journalist at the Straits Times’ Life Desk joins The Breakfast Show to discuss his article titled “‘I applied to over 300 jobs’: What people wish they knew before they got laid off” which explores how retrenched Singaporeans are navigating long-term unemployment not just financially, but emotionally and what it really takes to stay resilient in a job market marked by burnout, rejection, and automation. How are jobseekers breaking through the noise and rewriting the rules of what it means to bounce back?

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US Markets Wrap: Investors hit pause amid mixed earnings, FOMC decision ahead

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 01:05:25 +0000

Josh Gilbert, Market Analyst at eToro unpacks what the latest earnings - including from Starbucks, Spotify - indicate about the growth outlook for the US economy. He also previews the FOMC's rate decision as the clock counts down towards the August 1st tariff deadline.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Bites: Tiktok's "No Makeup First Date" trend is turning heads!

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 23:23:31 +0000

If you've ever been on a first date (which I'm sure most of us have), you'd know it can be quite a stressful, nerve-wracking experience. After all, it’s all about putting your best foot — or face — forward. Until now!

It’s natural for many to spend time getting ready. So to fight back, there’s a new trend going around on Tiktok called the "no makeup first date" trend.

Audrey, Emaad and Ryan talk about their own experiences, and unpacks this latest trend.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Bites: Did you know - tigers can survive for several days without food!!

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 03:05:03 +0000

It's International Tiger Day - a wonderful occasion to celebrate the largest member of the cat family!

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey dive into some cool facts about our beautifully striped friends, including how long they've been around, their food habits and swimming abilities!

Enjoy!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Stocks grind higher amid big week of earnings

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 01:36:40 +0000

Ryan Detrick, Chief Market Strategist, Carson Group looks at the bullish set up for markets this week against a busy backdrop of megacap tech earnings and a FOMC rate decision. He also discusses three recent "worries" that are overdone.

Presented/Produced: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Why your next CFO might be an algorithm

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 01:23:47 +0000

Once upon a time, running a business meant late nights with spreadsheets, chasing receipts, and hoping your numbers added up. But what if your finance team included an AI that never sleeps; reconciling, forecasting, and advising in real time?

The Breakfast Show meets Anigo Cao, APAC COO, ccMonet.ai, the force behind an AI-powered finance platform that’s changing how businesses think about money. Learn how ccMonet.ai is becoming the CFO modern companies didn’t know they needed, until now.

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Mind Your Business: Solving the payment puzzle across Asia

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 01:17:27 +0000

Asia’s payments landscape is booming and getting more complex by the day. From QR codes, real-time bank transfers, BNPL, digital wallets, local rails, customers want them all, and businesses are scrambling to keep up.

But what if there was a way to simplify all that complexity under one roof?

The Breakfast Show chats with Nakul Kothari, Head of APAC and Middle East, Juspay, who’s helping shape how payment experiences are built, scaled, and localized across APAC and the Middle East.

Presented and edited by: Audrey Siek

Produced by: Dan Koh

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Breakfast Bites: Unsolicited advice - the pet peeve that we can't seem to quit!

Sun, 27 Jul 2025 22:51:14 +0000

"Can I make a suggestion?"

How do you feel when you receive some unsolicited advice? Or be honest — are you the one handing it out? Some of us just can’t help ourselves. What's up with that? Why do people do it when it has been established that most of us don't enjoy it?

Audrey and Ryan talk about a pet peeve that has recently reared its ugly head in our personal lives. These "suggestions" and "tips" range from how to raise kids and what weights to lift at the gym.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced and edited by Audrey Siek

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Quiz: Time to test your news knowledge for July - how much do you recall?

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 03:19:14 +0000

It's the final Friday of the month! And that means its time to dig deep into the recesses of your mind to see if you're up to speed with some major news headlines.

Play along with Emaad and Ryan and see how you fare for July!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Ryan Huang

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: MAS consulting on ways to make civil recourse and legal action easier for investors

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 02:43:55 +0000

Retail investors who suffer losses in the stock market due to market misconduct could soon find it easier to seek civil recourse. The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) will consult on proposals later this year to strengthen investor protection through the enhancement of avenues to do so. Three areas of focus include enabling the pursuit of legal action, facilitating self-organisation, and providing access to funding. Mak Yuen Teen, Professor (Practice) of Accounting, NUS Business School & Director at the Centre for Investor Protection, discusses how adequate the latest suggestions are and if they are akin to giving lifejackets to passengers after putting them on a leaky boat.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Eased trade tensions help markets push new highs

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 02:39:55 +0000

Dilin Wu, Research Strategist, Pepperstone shares how much Japanese and Chinese markets will benefit from the easing of trade tensions. She also looks at the momentum being provided by the latest wave of earnings including Alphabet.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Companies To Watch: Can brain tech deliver billion-dollar returns?

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 00:10:15 +0000

Controlling devices with your mind sounds like sci-fi, until Neuralink made it real. With brain implants now in live human trials and plans to treat paralysis, restore vision, and one day upgrade cognition itself, Elon Musk’s most radical venture is racing to merge mind and machine.

Join Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they explore Neuralink’s latest breakthroughs, its bold commercial roadmap, and how it aims to scale to 20,000 surgeries a year. They also reveal how investors can tap into this growing neurotech wave, even if Neuralink isn’t public.

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Breakfast Bites: Would you pay 8k for a wellness retreat with VR therapy?

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 11:45:20 +0000

On International Self-Care Day, Emaad and Ryan explore luxury wellness retreats around the world catered to those who are willing to go the extra mile - both geographically and financially - to achieve better health.

Think VR therapy, suspension therapy, four-hour hikes, and restricted diets. Listen in to find out more!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Ryan Huang

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo credit: Martin Morrell/Lanserhof

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Alphabet Q2 earnings beat, Tesla misses

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 04:56:42 +0000

Kyle Rodda, Senior Financial Market Analyst at Capital.com breaks down the Q2 earnings from Alphabet, Tesla, and IBM. He outlines the bright spots and weaknesses from the numbers.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Bigger Pic: China's aggressive tourism revival strategy a boon for domestic economy

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 04:19:49 +0000

China has doubled down on reviving its tourism industry, and its aggressive efforts are paying off. Lavinia Rajaram, Asia Travel Expert, Expedia Group discusses the measures that have been implemented to boost inbound tourist numbers, including the expansion of the country's transit policy; and how this is boosting the domestic economy.

Produced/Presented: Emaad Akhtar

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Mind Your Business: Behind the business powering a billion in sales

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 01:19:23 +0000

Retail tech often brings to mind flashy e-commerce platforms, but behind the scenes, true transformation is happening in how physical and omnichannel businesses run day to day.

Across Southeast Asia, one company has been quietly building the infrastructure that powers thousands of stores, helping brands modernize from POS and CRM to analytics and AI.

Join the Breakfast Show as they speak with Bikash Kumar, CEO and Anupama Singal, Director of Integrated Retail, the team behind over 3,000 stores and $1B+ in commerce. They share how they built a cross-border business, how they make money, and the entrepreneurial fundamentals that have guided their journey from startup to trusted retail partner.

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Companies To Watch: Is Coca-Cola’s sugar shift a signal to buy, hold or pass?

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 00:09:48 +0000

Coca-Cola’s bringing back cane sugar and it’s not just a flavor choice. Days after US President Donald Trump claimed victory for “real cane sugar,” the company confirmed a fall launch of a U.S.-made, cane-sweetened version of its iconic drink.

Meanwhile, Coke’s Q2 earnings beat expectations with a 3.5% profit surge, even as global volumes slipped. What does this mean for investors?

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang find out what this means for Coca-Cola’s valuation, investor sentiment, and long-term growth story.

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Breakfast Bites: Working before your official start date - yay or nay?

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 08:54:19 +0000

Suppose you have been offered a job. You’ve signed under the dotted line. Happy with the terms and conditions. Excited to start a new chapter of your career.

And then your employer assigns you unpaid tasks ahead of your official start of employment.

What should you do? Emaad and Ryan analyse what the experts say.

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Ryan Huang

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo credit: The Straits Times (ST Illustration: Lee Yu Hui)

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: “Rare entry point” in real estate amid reshaping of global capital flow

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 04:39:11 +0000

Regina Lim, Head of Property Research, Asia, M&G Real Estate discusses the state of real estate across Asia and why this moment is a ‘rare entry point’. She talks about what’s driving that optimism, as well as how geopolitical changes are reshaping the global flow of capital?

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Teaching beyond the ten-year series

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 01:08:21 +0000

It starts with one extra class… then becomes a routine, a strategy, and for many, a necessity. In Singapore, tuition is often seen as the key to keeping up, or getting ahead. But what’s it like for the people on the other side of the classroom?

The Breakfast Show sits down with Eric Kua, Founder and Chemistry Educator at Mr Khemistry to discuss why he left MOE to start his own centre, how he helps students thrive under pressure, and why meaningful learning goes way beyond the syllabus.

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Morning Shot: First Job Jitters - Should Grads Be Worried?

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 00:31:16 +0000

Many fresh grads are anxious about finding a job, but should they be? Manpower Minister Tan See Leng is urging graduates and parents to “stay calm,” pointing to new figures that show the employment rate for the 2025 university graduating cohort was 51.9% in June, 4 percentage points higher than in June 2024. That suggests the graduate job market may be on sturdier ground than expected, even amid global uncertainty.

So how worried should graduates really be and what can they do to boost their chances? Loh Pui Wah, Independent Business Consultant & Career Coach and Ng Kian Boon, Host of the Red Dot Perspective (YouTube), join the Breakfast Show to unpack the outlook, highlight where opportunities are emerging, and explore how fresh graduates can navigate the current hiring scene.

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US Markets Wrap: Signs of weakness in market rally

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 00:14:21 +0000

Jay Woods, Chief Global Strategist, Freedom Capital Markets discusses how he is seeing signs of weakness with his favourite momentum indicator in the RSI is showing a slight bearish divergence. He believes much of the rally off the lows needs to be digested and accepted before climbing higher, especially in the S&P 500 stocks.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image by Temel from Pixabay

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Companies To Watch: Meet the latest meme stock catching fire

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 23:23:07 +0000

Once a darling of the SPAC boom, Opendoor spent most of 2024 flat on its back, out of favor, out of steam, and nearly out of cash. But just when Wall Street had written it off as another housing-tech flameout, the meme-stock crowd kicked down the door.

From trading at less than the price of a bubble tea to surging nearly 500% in a matter of weeks, Opendoor has staged one of the most bizarre and exhilarating comebacks on the Nasdaq. Is this the beginning of a true comeback, or just another Reddit-fueled sugar rush?

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang swing open the doors on what’s really driving the hype and explore what’s really driving the stock’s gravity-defying leap.

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Breakfast Bites: World Brain Day: memory recall & forgetfulness

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 06:15:24 +0000

Have you ever wondered why you remember certain past events so vividly, and others not so much?

On World Brain Day, Emaad and Ryan explore a couple of experts' takes on the step-by-step process of memory recall, why we have lapses, and whether Sudoku or crossword puzzles are better for the health of the fattiest organ in the human body!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Ryan Huang

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo credit: Unsplash & its talented community of contributors

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Stocks hit new highs pre-tech earnings

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 02:51:59 +0000

Christine Short, Vice President of Research, Wall Street Horizon discusses what's in store for the Magnficent 7 with earnings from Tesla and Alphabet on tap in the coming days. She notes that the Q2 earnings season is already off to a fabulous start - thus far 83% of the 62 S&P 500 companies that have reported earnings have beaten expectations on the top and bottom-line, better than the 1, 5, and 10 year average beat rates.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: The school for adults who still dream

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 01:40:57 +0000

For many adults, the dream of making music feels out of reach — too expensive, too technical, or simply too late. But what if it didn’t have to be?

The Breakfast Show explores what it means to return to creativity later in life with Rachel Tan, founder of Momentum Lessons, an online music school helping adults, especially those with no formal background, learn to remix, produce, and rediscover the emotional, cultural, and healing power of sound.

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Companies To Watch: How Dasin Retail Trust lost investor confidence

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 23:38:02 +0000

Once hailed as a gateway to China’s Greater Bay Area retail boom, Dasin Retail Trust is now in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Mounting debt defaults, executive exits, shareholder revolt, and now a trading halt amid failure to comply with SGX listing rules on timely financial reporting and AGMs.

As the headlines pile up and distributions disappear, investors are left asking: What happened? What’s next? And is there anything left to salvage?

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang dissect the turmoil, breaking down what led to Dasin’s dramatic fall from grace, its latest regulatory breaches, and what this means for unitholders, the SGX, and the future of business trusts in Singapore.

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Breakfast Bites: How do you really pronounce Rihanna's name??

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 06:48:44 +0000

Music forms a pretty essential part of our daily lives.

But do you know how the names of some of our favourite artists and bands are correctly pronounced?

The mispronounced series is back - have a listen!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Ryan Huang

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo & music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Unlocking value through stewardship

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 05:48:27 +0000

In today’s fast-changing world, businesses face growing pressure to do more than just deliver profits. Environmental crises, social inequality, and governance challenges demand a new kind of leadership—one that balances purpose with performance.

Join the Breakfast Show as they invite Rajeev Peshawaria, CEO of Stewardship Asia Centre and author of Sustainable Sustainability to discuss his vision for “steward leadership”—a values-driven approach that redefines how companies create lasting impact for shareholders, society, and the planet.

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Bigger Pic: Investors weigh extent of Japan's ruling coalition defeat

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 04:32:12 +0000

Vasu Menon, Managing Director, Investment Strategy, OCBC Bank discusses what are the market implications of Japan's ruling coalition losing majority in both parliament houses for first time in history.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Companies To Watch: The precious metal quietly beating gold

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 00:39:51 +0000

While gold and silver hog the spotlight, there's a lesser-known metal quietly stealing the show: ruthenium. Once an obscure player in the platinum group family, it's now surging past $800 an ounce, outpacing traditional safe-havens in year-to-date gains.

From its critical role in AI infrastructure and data storage to its tight global supply, joins Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they dig into what's fueling the price spike, and whether it’s time investors start paying serious attention.

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Bigger Pic: SG60 and beyond- Unlocking wealth creation

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 04:50:09 +0000

Derrick Kam, Asia Economist at Morgan Stanley lays out his long-term view on how Singapore can transition from value creation to wealth creation over the coming decade. He discusses why wealth creation is becoming a national priority, as Singapore prepares to support an ageing population and meet its citizens' aspirations.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: The story of Uncle Ringo and where it’s headed next

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 01:52:26 +0000

For many of us in Singapore, carnivals meant one name — Uncle Ringo. From heartland pop-ups to big city events, it’s a brand that defined childhoods, dates, and weekend outings. But who’s keeping the magic alive today?

The Breakfast Show sits down with Joyce Lee, Director of Uncle Ringo and daughter of its founder, to talk legacy, innovation, and what it takes to run one of Singapore’s most iconic entertainment businesses in a changing world.

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Breakfast Quiz: It's World Listening Day! See if you can identify these famous sounds.

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 00:48:27 +0000

Did you know that, on average, a person spends about 60% of a typical conversation just listening — but only remembers about 25% of what they hear?

Sounds play a huge role in our daily lives, in movies, and in the world around us. Let’s find out who is the best "listener" in the Breakfast Crew, and whether you can identify these famous sounds, songs and effects!

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: The collapse of Japan’s biggest foreign takeover

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 00:48:19 +0000

It was poised to be Japan’s biggest foreign takeover—Alimentation Couche-Tard’s $46 billion bid for 7-Eleven owner Seven & i Holdings. After nearly a year of back-and-forth, the deal collapsed. Why did it fall through? What does it mean for the future of Seven & i—and for foreign investors eyeing Japan

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they break down the anatomy of this historic non-deal, what it means for Seven & i going forward, how investors are reacting, and what the fallout reveals about Japan’s evolving corporate governance landscape.

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US Markets Wrap: Earnings beat by Netflix and others lifting sentiment

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 22:55:49 +0000

Ben Emons, Chief Investment Officer, FedWatch Advisors discusses what the latest earnings beats by the likes of Netflix, PepsiCo and etc signal about the US economy as well as what investors should take away. He also looks at what might happen if Fed Chair Jerome Powell gets replaced by President Donald Trump.

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Breakfast Bites: Do you know what the three most used emojis are??

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 03:53:29 +0000

It's World Emoji Day! Our cute little friends have emerged as wonderful companions for the human race in the realm of digital communications.

So much so that we probably can't imagine having a WhatsApp conversation without them!

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey dive into the origin and meaning of emojis, how they're created and approved, and the three most used ones!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo credit: Unsplash & its talented community of contributors

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Innovation in luxury travel - The devil is in the details

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 01:17:14 +0000

Innovation and personalisation are now reshaping the luxury travel space. New, reimagined experiences are key for a new generation of high-net-worth shoppers and travellers.

Tony Archbold, Vice President of Sales for Abercrombie & Kent and Crystal Cruises in Asia, tells us how iconic brands can reinvent themselves and expand into diverse markets across Asia-Pacific.

Produced, edited and presented by Audrey Siek

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Companies To Watch: Where ComfortDelGro is taking investors next

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 00:33:54 +0000

Once known simply as Singapore’s go-to cab company, ComfortDelGro is rewriting its story—one autonomous shuttle at a time. Picture a veteran driver boarding his vehicle—not to drive, but to monitor an autonomous shuttle. This is ComfortDelGro’s new reality. From taxis to robotaxis, the company is transforming under the radar.

Join Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they unpack the remarkable transformation of one of Asia’s largest land transport giants, and what it all means for investors eyeing the future of transport.

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US Markets Wrap: Stocks are on a tear, but investors may consolidate gains

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 05:06:17 +0000

Phil Orlando, Chief Equity Market Strategist, Federated Hermes discusses why investors are better placed to look for a pull back before entering into new positions, as storm clouds on the horizon present the potential to induce some modest profit-taking among investors.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Bigger Pic: The 60/40 portfolio is past its relevancy

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 05:04:02 +0000

Dorian Carrell, Head of Multi Asset Income at Schroders discusses why investors need to rethink the traditional 60/40 portfolio allocation between equities and fixed income. He also shares why concentrated exposure to US assets may be riskier than many global investors assume.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Here’s how you should be defending your business against AI-powered cyber threats

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 01:41:50 +0000

Breaches aren’t just hitting companies — they’re hitting everyone connected to them. We’re seeing more attacks come through third parties, vendors, and service providers. So what now?

Kavitha Mariappan, Chief Transformation Officer, Rubrik joins the Breakfast Show to discuss how AI is changing the cyber game, why supply chains are under siege, and how businesses can stay resilient and one step ahead.

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Breakfast Bites: Here's an awkward question - Have you written your will?

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 00:48:18 +0000

This may be a little 'morbid' to ask, but when’s the last time you thought about writing your will? Have you written one?

If you're in good health and in your 30s or 40s - it’s easy to put this off. Plus, talking about death can feel a little taboo. But if you have ageing parents, kids, or even just a growing pile of savings and investments —it’s never too early to think about who handles our money after we’re gone.

Audrey, Ryan and Emaad discuss whether they've thought about it, and basic steps on how to get started today.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang and Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Morning Shot: Beyond Paychecks - How Appreciation Shapes the Workplace

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 00:24:29 +0000

Randstad’s 2025 Singapore survey shows nearly 9 in 10 employees believe a sense of community helps them perform better, and lack of appreciation ranks among the top three reasons staff feel discouraged across all age groups. Yet many workplaces still struggle to build cultures where people feel recognised. This segment will explore why appreciation often falls through the cracks, how it ties into the pillars that drive belonging at work, and what leaders can do to personalise recognition to keep their teams engaged and loyal in a high-stress job market.

Jasmine Liew, CEO of Breakthrough Catalyst and the Premier Partner of Appreciation at Work, shares her thoughts on the Breakfast Show.

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Companies To Watch: Can Kraft Heinz ketchup to market demands?

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 23:59:11 +0000

Kraft Heinz might be breaking up with its grocery aisle staples — but is it really about health, wealth, or just bad taste? In a twist that has Wall Street raising eyebrows, the food giant is reportedly cooking up a $20 billion corporate split! But will this move spice up shareholder value, or just further complicate an already sticky legacy?

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they connect the dots between changing consumer demand, investor pressure, and the growing realization that maybe not all mergers age like fine ketchup.

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US Markets Wrap: Meta to invest in massive data centers, AI theme remains intact

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 09:59:06 +0000

Sevasti Balafas, CEO, Goalvest, discusses the market's resilience in the face of recent tariff announcements; why the AI theme and dominance remains intact in the US; expectations for the upcoming June CPI report; and why Q2 earnings growth is expected to come in lower than Q1.

Produced/Presented: Emaad Akhtar

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Breakfast Bites: You know what "whooping cough" is, but how do you pronounce it?

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 04:52:56 +0000

The Breakfast Bites "commonly mispronounced" series continues, and today we explore the realm of medical terms and conditions.

Emaad and Audrey walk you through how to correctly pronounce some of them, which can sound quite different to how they look on paper!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo credit: Pexels & its talented community of contributors

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: How are extreme weather events reshaping travel trends?

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 04:24:42 +0000

Extreme weather events are reshaping the way people think about travel. On the Bigger Picture, Abhishek Bhati, Pro Vice-Chancellor & CEO, University of Newcastle in Singapore and Vice-President, International Tourism Studies Association discusses evolving traveller trends / behaviours, including whether 'climate migration tourism' may become mainstream; the viability of Singapore as a tourism hub given rising temperatures; how tourism businesses are adapting; and the potential impact on travel insurance premiums.

Produced & Presented by: Emaad Akhtar

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Mind Your Business: How FastCo is changing the way Singapore hires

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 01:02:38 +0000

The way we hire and work is changing — fast. In a world where talent gaps need to be filled instantly and flexibility is no longer a perk but an expectation, businesses are rethinking everything they know about employment.

The Breakfast Show invites Julian Tan, Founder and CEO of FastCo to discuss how his platform is enabling companies to stay agile while empowering a new generation of independent workers.

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Companies To Watch: Can BTS’ comeback power HYBE’s stock?

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 23:28:39 +0000

HYBE, the company behind BTS, is riding high as all seven members are back from military service—fueling hype for a long-awaited full-group comeback and sending the stock soaring. But behind the scenes, serious trouble is brewing.

Regulators in South Korea are investigating HYBE’s 2020 IPO, with allegations that founder Bang Si-hyuk may have hidden hundreds of billions of won in profits.

Join Dan Koh and Audrey Siek as they break down how BTS’ comeback is shaping HYBE’s market value, and what investors, fans, and the industry should be watching next.

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Mind Your Business: The AI gap no one’s talking about

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 01:25:04 +0000

Companies are rushing to adopt AI—but many are forgetting one thing: their people. So as the pressure to adopt AI grows, the question remains - is it up to companies or individuals to stay relevant?

Ryan Meyer, Managing Director of APAC at General Assembly joins the Breakfast Show to discuss the hidden risks of ignoring workforce development, and how smart companies are preparing their teams for what’s next.

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Bigger Pic: Singapore's Q2 GDP data and what it means for the rest of 2025

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 01:15:43 +0000

Singapore’s economy just delivered a 4.3% year-on-year growth in Q2, beating expectations and brushing off recession fears. But what’s really behind the numbers? And can the momentum continue into the second half of the year?

Dan Koh chats with Selena Ling, Chief economist & Head, Global Markets Research & Strategy, OCBC to unpack the latest GDP figures, break down the key growth drivers, and explore what this means for businesses, investors, and policy decisions in the months ahead.

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Breakfast Bites: Dealing with intrusive demands from your boss? Here's how to address it.

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 01:02:52 +0000

Have you ever taken a sick day, and then got a surprise call from your boss just checking if you’re really at home resting? Or maybe you’re expected to do lots of work after you’ve clocked out for the day.

This is something that was addressed on AskST on the Straits Times. What can you do when your boss crosses the line with intrusive demands? And how do you even tell when a request is fair game… or is it over the top?

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced and edited by Audrey Siek

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Can NTT DC REIT deliver on its 7.5 percent promise?

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 23:24:56 +0000

Singapore dividend lovers, here's something to cheer about! The Singapore REIT scene just got a new heavyweight contender — NTT DC REIT, backed by global telecom giant NTT Ltd., is making its trading debut on the SGX.

With a projected 7.5% yield and exposure to high-demand data centres across the US, Europe, and Singapore, this IPO is turning heads among dividend hunters and tech-savvy investors alike. But does the yield hold up long-term? And how does it stack against data centre REIT darlings like Keppel DC REIT?

Find out with Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they find out if this should be the next big thing in your portfolio!

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Bigger Pic: REITs, resilience and what's next for SGX IPOs

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 02:24:46 +0000

With shifting global headwinds, sector rotations, and emerging investor priorities, what does the outlook hold for listings on the SGX? Ronald Tan, Senior Vice President, Equity Capital Market, Global Sales & Origination, SGX discusses what’s driving activity on the exchange, where global interest is coming from, and how REITs—especially milestone listings like NTT DC REIT—are shaping Singapore’s position as a preferred listing destination.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Quiz: World Population Day - how good is your geography?

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 01:37:06 +0000

It's World Population Day! Today's Breakfast Quiz will surely test how knowledgable you are in the realm of geography! Try your luck!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Dan Koh

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: US earnings could boost markets, watch out for concentration risks

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 01:33:50 +0000

Gina Martin Adams, Chief Equity Strategist & Global Director of Equity Strategy, Bloomberg discusses why we could see the upcoming earnings season beat expectations. She also shares why investors need to look out for concentration risks in their portfolios.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: From bodyguard to baby swim coach

Fri, 11 Jul 2025 01:02:54 +0000

He once protected world leaders as an elite bodyguard. But when life fell apart, Athanasius Pang found healing in the water. Today, he teaches babies to swim—and builds resilience from their very first breath.

The Breakfast Show invites Athanasius Pang, Founder, Dip Swim to find out how he turned rock bottom into a ripple effect of impact.

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US Markets Wrap: To buy or not to buy (on the dips)?

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 05:12:16 +0000

Alex Morris, CEO, F/m Investments discusses why momentum does not always equate to optimism, and why investors should not try to buy on the dips in the current market.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Reinventing a tailoring legacy

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 02:28:09 +0000

In a world of fast fashion and fleeting trends, few traditions are as enduring—or as endangered—as bespoke tailoring. For decades, Meiko Tailor in Singapore has quietly upheld that craft, led by Master Tailor Chung Chi Kwong. But times are changing.

Now, his daughter, Adele Chung, is stepping into the spotlight—bringing fresh vision to a business stitched in tradition. The Breakfast Show invites Adele Chung, Bespoke Designer of Meiko Tailor and Founder of Uncommon Hem by Meiko Tailor to discuss what it’s like to grow up surrounded by scissors and suits, and how she’s balancing heritage with innovation as a second-generation leader in a male-dominated industry.

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Bigger Pic: Innovation meets conservation with Mandai X and BCG X

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 01:59:26 +0000

When we say "Mandai", chances are you think of the Singapore Zoo and its decades-long commitment to conservation. But today, that mission is leaping beyond the zoo gates — through Mandai X.

That is the Mandai Wildlife Group’s new growth and impact accelerator, and in partnership with BCG X, they are bringing fresh ideas to life to take conservation from the reserve to your living room.

Belina Lee, CEO of Mandai X, and Abby Zhang, Principal Venture Architect at BCG X share more.

Produced, edited and presented by: Audrey Siek

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Breakfast Bites: Ever lost your promotion to a new hire? You're not alone!

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 01:55:27 +0000

This is a sore spot for some of us who have had to deal with this issue at the workplace. Being passed over for a promotion… and then watching the role go to someone brand new instead.

So this was a topic on AskST on the Straits Times - and it's more common than you think. What do you do when you’re left standing there without the promotion you think you deserve?

Audrey and Ryan discuss their personal experiences, and share tips from career experts.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced and edited by Audrey Siek

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Why the next tech giants will emerge here in SEA

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 10:01:25 +0000

With one of the youngest and fastest-growing digital economies on the planet, SEA has become fertile ground for breakthroughs in AI, Web3, and Deep Tech. But how are these innovations being supported? Who’s behind the scenes, nurturing founders and helping them scale?

The Breakfast Show invites Alyssa Chen, Principal Accelerator, AppWorks, to find out what’s fueling Southeast Asia’s rise, what investors are really looking for, and why the region’s next-gen AI, Web3, and Deep Tech startups might just lead the global charge.

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Bigger Pic: Over 70% of investors plan to keep or raise SG equity exposure

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 02:48:21 +0000

Isaac Lim, Chief Market Strategist, Moomoo Singapore discusses how the second quarter of 2025 was dominated by the “3 Ts” – Trump, Tariffs, and Trade Wars. He looks at how the third quarter could see the TACO (Trump Always Chickens Out) trade take off again. The discussion also zooms in on the safe haven flows supporting the Straits Times Index to new highs.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: US sabre-rattling with tariffs to weaken the dollar

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 02:38:30 +0000

John Lekas, President and CEO of Leader Capital shares why the U.S. administration may be pursuing a deliberate weak-dollar policy, partly to gain an upper hand in trade with countries like China by making U.S. exports cheaper and putting pressure on foreign economies. He believes that the U.S. administration is using tariff threats mainly as sabre-rattling - as a strategy to weaken the dollar rather than a serious trade policy.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Bites: To spank, or not to spank your kids? That is the ultimate parenting question.

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 01:26:13 +0000

It’s one of the oldest debates in parenting: If you’re a parent, or if you’ve just thought about having kids - would you ever spank your child?

This "argument" is far from settled, especially here in Asia where traditional discipline methods still hold strong.

But more parents today are asking: does physical punishment really work, or does it do more harm than good in the long run?

Audrey and Ryan talk about whether or not they spank their kids, whether they were punished as children, and what the studies show.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced & edited by Audrey Siek

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Bites: Are probiotics really a 'must have' for good gut health?

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 10:44:36 +0000

We've all heard various theories about foods or supplements we should take or avoid to promote better gut health. And diets we should follow. And to be wary of certain patterns. But how much of this is really true?

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey discuss some gut health "myths" that experts have sought to clarify.

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Dan Koh

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Have Middle East air hubs lost their mojo?

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 10:28:13 +0000

Middle Eastern air hubs are an essential cog in the wheel of the global aviation industry. But in mid-June, these hubs were caught in the crosshairs of escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. Scores of flights were diverted away from the likes of Doha, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, home to the three most profitable carriers in the world, resulting in operational chaos. Shukor Yusof, Founder & Analyst, Endau Analytics, discusses whether the recent geopolitical turmoil may have any long-term implications for the viability of these Gulf aviation hubs, and what it would take for them to regain their shine.

Produced/Presented: Emaad Akhtar

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US Markets Wrap: US stocks knocked lower by tariff worries

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 02:07:25 +0000

Frank Cappelleri, Founder and President, CappThesis unpacks how Wall Street’s major indices closed lower, on the latest developments from US President Donald Trump announcing hefty tariffs against Japan, South Korea and other trading partners. He also looks at how much weight we should be putting on the recent formation of a Golden Cross for the S&P500.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: How Canon is reinventing imaging in Asia

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 00:49:33 +0000

In a region powered by digital transformation and economic growth, Canon is evolving beyond photography — into industrial, medical, and business innovation. With Southeast and South Asia undergoing rapid change, how does a legacy imaging giant stay ahead?

Toshiyuki Ishii, President and CEO of Canon Singapore joins the Breakfast Show to discuss Canon’s role in shaping the future of imaging across 23 diverse markets — and how it’s responding to the rise of smartphone photography.

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Morning Shot: “Second China Shock” - Can Southeast Asia Compete or Will It Be Outpaced?

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 00:44:21 +0000

As China’s manufacturing engine powers ahead, this segment looks at how Southeast Asia is grappling with a fresh wave of competition or what some have called the “Second China Shock.” We explore how cheap, tech-driven Chinese exports are reshaping industries from textiles to autos, why ASEAN’s own export markets are feeling the strain, and what options the region has to protect local jobs without jeopardising ties with Beijing.

Ravi Velloor, Associate Editor and Senior Columnist with The Straits Times joins the Breakfast Show to share his perspectives.

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Bigger Pic: US trading partners look to strike deals ahead of July 9 tariff deadline

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 01:23:48 +0000

Pan Jingyi, Associate Director, S&P Global Market Intelligence discusses the latest Singapore and global PMI numbers and what this means for business confidence; last week's better-than-expected nonfarm payrolls data; and US President Donald Trump's looming tariff deadline on July 9.

Produced/Presented: Emaad Akhtar

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Breakfast Bites: Chocolate has been used as a form of currency in the past!

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 01:17:59 +0000

It's World Chocolate Day!

On today's Breakfast Bites, Emaad and Audrey share some unexpected ways chocolate has been used - as a form of currency, and for special effects (fake blood) in movies.

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Dan Koh

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Designing a workplace that doesn't just function - but inspire

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 00:54:08 +0000

As hybrid work becomes the norm, companies across Asia Pacific are rethinking their offices — with 58% planning increased investment in space design. But what tech is driving this change? And what data really matters?

The Breakfast Show invites Jes Singh, founder and Managing Director of DVI Solutions to discuss what it takes to design spaces that truly serve people — not just workflows.

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Mind Your Business: How AI is transforming Radiology at Parkway

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 06:14:37 +0000

Radiology is getting a high-tech upgrade. Parkway Radiology, Singapore’s top private imaging provider, is teaming up with Australian health-tech firm Annalise.ai to launch the country’s first large-scale AI deployment in diagnostic imaging.

The Breakfast Show invites Ms. Tan Yujuan, CEO of Parkway Radiology and Parkway MediCentre and Dr. Aengus Tran, Co-founder and CEO of Annalise.ai to discuss about how this partnership is set to improve care for over 85,000 patients a year — and what it means for the future of healthcare.

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Bigger Pic: How ASEAN will be affected by volatile oil prices

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 03:14:51 +0000

It’s been quite a choppy ride for oil prices in the past week. We’ve seen prices ease on tariff uncertainties - as that weighs on the global growth outlook and demand. On the other hand, headlines around geopolitics in the middle east have weighed on the supply side of the equation to support prices. Lavanya Venkateswaran, Senior ASEAN Economist, OCBC discusses what to look out for in 2H2025.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Quiz: It's time for fireworks and hotdogs... It's the 4th of July!

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 00:39:55 +0000

For this week's Breakfast Show quiz, we turn to the land of the free and the home of Donald Trump and the S&P500! It’s Independence Day today in the US - so markets are closed this 4th of July; but what is open for business is a long weekend packed with barbecues, parties and parades.

Are you ready for a 4th of July showdown? Play along to see how well you know the holiday!

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Morning Shot: What Singapore's new stamp duty hike means for property buyers

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 00:38:37 +0000

Singapore is raising stamp duties on homes sold within four years to curb short-term speculation, reversing a move from 2017. This comes as sub-sales surge to their highest in over a decade, driven by rising prices and investor activity.

Nicholas Mak, Chief Research Officer at mogul.sg, joins the Breakfast Show to discuss what’s fueling the spike in quick resales, how the new rules might reshape investor behaviour, and what ripple effects this could have on developers, transaction volumes, and even the HDB resale and rental markets.

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Companies To Watch: Why U.S. retail stocks are in focus now

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 00:12:23 +0000

Trade tensions are back on center stage. Earlier this week, US President Trump just struck a high-stakes tariff deal with Vietnam—slashing proposed import tariffs while cracking down on transshipped goods, especially those with links to China. With the latest U.S.-Vietnam trade framework signaling major supply chain shifts and tariff dynamics, how will brands like Nike, Lululemon, Under Armor and Levi’s adapt?

From performance gear to premium yoga pants, join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they unpack how Vietnam’s new deal with the U.S. could reshape sourcing strategies, profit margins, and stock trajectories.

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Breakfast Bites: How do you pronounce the Scottish city of "Edinburgh" correctly?

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 08:19:00 +0000

We're back with another "commonly mispronounced names" edition of Breakfast Bites and in the spotlight today...cities!

We wax lyrical about them, visit them, but in some cases, may not really know how to pronounce them correctly.

Listen in and see how you fare!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: TSMC, Yum China among top picks for Q3

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 05:44:34 +0000

Sean Quek, Senior Portfolio Manager (Paragon SAGE Fund), Paragon Capital Management Singapore discusses why his portfolio continues to hold onto chipmaker TSMC, and how the strengthening Taiwan Dollar affects the company. He also explains how Yum China is poised to benefit in the long run based on recent indicators around China's economy.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: US-Vietnam deal pushes markets to new highs

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 05:25:50 +0000

Steve Sosnick, Chief Strategist, Interactive Brokers discusses how some good news on the trade front is lifting markets to new record highs, though investors are keeping a close eye on the condition of the US labour economy - where reports have been somewhat conflicting.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: How Levels Living is redefining Vhive for a new generation

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 01:25:07 +0000

What happens when you're handed a legacy—and asked to reimagine it? That’s what Thomas Ding, Managing Director of Levels Living, was tasked to execute by his father-in-law—the founder of iconic furniture brand Vhive.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show invites Thomas to share how Levels Living grew from the roots of Vhive into a bold new startup redefining custom living—with support from the SMU Business Innovations Generator, where he honed his vision and scaled the venture.

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Companies To Watch: Wall Street’s new favorite bet

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 23:53:23 +0000

Not long ago, Penn Entertainment was seen as a traditional gaming company trying to find its place in a fast-evolving digital world. But that narrative is shifting — fast. In fact, that’s pushed a JPMorgan analyst to initiate an ‘overweight’ rating on PENN and a $24 price target, signaling a potential ~31% upside based on its then-current price.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they explore the key reasons analysts are warming up to Penn, and find out if this a short-term reaction or a long-term opportunity.

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US Markets Wrap: US equities remain a good bet for investors

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 09:10:33 +0000

Todd Rabold, Investment Management Partner, Callan Family Office discusses the passing of President Donald Trump's Big Beautiful Bill in the Senate and next steps; Fed Chair Jerome Powell's comments at the ECB forum; expectations for the upcoming nonfarm payrolls report and its potential implications for future Fed interest rate decisions; and how investors should be positioning themselves in the current market environment.

Produced / Presented: Emaad Akhtar

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Breakfast Bites: Ever been ghosted by a job recruiter? Most of us have!

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 01:16:04 +0000

Breakfast Bites today is a bit of a sore subject: getting ghosted. But we’re not talking about being ghosted on a dating app, but by a recruiter!

If that sounds familiar, you’re definitely not alone. A poll found a whopping 88% have said they’ve been ghosted while job hunting.

Should we expect a polite “thanks but no thanks"? What can we do if we find ourselves in that situation?

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: The ROI of workplace wellbeing

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 00:30:00 +0000

As mental health challenges continue to rise across industries, many companies are still relying on generic wellness programs that don’t always meet the real needs of their people. From burnout to disengagement, the cost of neglecting mental wellbeing is becoming too big to ignore — not just for employees, but for business performance too.

So how can organisations move from ticking boxes to truly understanding and addressing workplace wellbeing in a meaningful way?

The Breakfast Show speaks to Dr. Oliver Suendermann, Vice President, Clinical at Intellect about how businesses can identify their unique stress points, design targeted mental health interventions, and foster a culture of genuine psychological safety and support.

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Companies To Watch: Is Oracle the next big AI stock?

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 23:48:28 +0000

Once a dominant force in enterprise software, Oracle spent years trailing cloud giants like AWS, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud. At 48, the company has often been seen as a slow mover in a fast-paced tech landscape—until now.

With a staggering $30 billion-a-year cloud deal on the table and its stock hitting record highs, Oracle is signaling a bold new chapter. So what does this mean for investors? Is Oracle finally ready to lead the next wave of cloud transformation?

Join Dan Koh and Audrey Siek as they unpack Oracle’s big move, the market reaction, and what it all means for the future of tech and investing.

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Breakfast Bites: Do you know the origins of the classic "Knock Knock" joke?

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 08:38:50 +0000

On International Joke Day, the Breakfast crew dive into the origins of some classic jokes (think "Knock, Knock," "Yo Mama" and "Why did the chicken cross the road?") and share some jokes from around the world that may reveal a little about the culture in those countries.

Have a good laugh today!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Markets hit record high for 2nd straight day

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 01:58:52 +0000

Jason Britton, Founder and CIO, Reflection Asset Management looks at how the latest market highs have been achieved on the back of the news that Canada decided to rescind its digital service tax in an attempt to bring the US back to the negotiating table. He also unpacks his outlook on various sectors including retail, energy and technology.

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Bigger Pic: Optimism over Europe Equities

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 01:53:53 +0000

Thomas Rupf, Co-Head Singapore and CIO Asia, VP Bank discusses how European markets are benefiting from reallocations from the USA as well as from the planned economic stimulus and armaments programmes in the EU. He examines the upside potential in view of how valuations in Europe have risen, plus the stronger euro is also having a dampening effect.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: How companies are losing millions without knowing it

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 00:55:59 +0000

In a world where hybrid work is the norm and real estate costs are soaring, many companies are stuck in outdated assumptions about how much office space they really need. Empty desks and half-used floors aren’t just quirks of modern work—they’re quiet financial drains.

The Breakfast Show explores the hidden cost of wasted space with Ricardo Chacón, founder of The Common Blue and finds out how he is using real behavioural data and a proprietary tool called The Cascade, to help companies rethink and right-size their real estate strategies.

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Companies To Watch: Stock Showdown - Dan’s Spotify vs Ryan’s Meta

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 00:37:01 +0000

In this special episode of Companies to Watch, Dan Koh and Ryan Huang kick off a month-long friendly stock face-off. With one pick each and reputations on the line, Dan throws his support behind Spotify, while Ryan backs Meta — and yes, they're quietly keeping score.

They break down why these two tech giants caught their eye, what trends they're watching, and what could swing the performance either way. Who will win? Who will regret everything? They'll revisit the results at the end of the month — but for now, it’s game on.

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Morning Shot: The Role of International Bodies in a Tense World

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 00:35:29 +0000

As geopolitical tensions rise, this segment looks at how international bodies like the UN are responding to conflict and whether they remain effective platforms for diplomacy. This will explore what the Israel-Iran situation reveals about the limits of multilateral consensus, how small states like Singapore continue to see value in the UN Charter, and what recent debates suggest about the future of global cooperation.

Dr. Oh Ei Sun, Senior Fellow at the Singapore Institute of International Affairs joins The Breakfast Show to share his insights.

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Bigger Pic: Wall Street hits new high, breaking Feb record

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 02:37:30 +0000

Phan Vee Leung, CIO, Trackrecord discusses what's different this time fundamentally and technically with the markets, with the S&P 500 now in a bull market and hitting a new high.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

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Breakfast Bites: Do you feel “MC Guilt” when you need to take a sick day?

Sun, 29 Jun 2025 23:33:55 +0000

We've all probably experienced this before: waking up to a splitting headache, you are down with a bad cold, or you're just not feeling well. What do you do? Do you take the sick day you're entitled to, or do you find yourself feeling bad, and you end up soldiering on?

If you're in the latter group, you're definitely not alone. In fact, there’s a name for this weird feeling we get: MC guilt.

Audrey, Ryan and Emaad talk about whether they suffer from this "ailment", and how experts suggest we deal with it.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Can Xiaomi disrupt Tesla, Apple and Meta all at once?

Sun, 29 Jun 2025 23:33:23 +0000

Once known for affordable smartphones, Xiaomi is now chasing Tesla, Apple, and Meta—all at once. With the YU7 SUV racking up over 200,000 pre-orders in minutes, smart glasses aiming for your face, and a flagship phone keeping you plugged into their ecosystem, this isn’t just a product launch—it’s a strategy shift.

Join Dan Koh and Audrey Siek as they unpack how the tech giant is shifting gears—literally—from your pocket to the open road. From their sleek YU7 electric SUV, futuristic smart glasses, and their latest flagship phone. Find out what this bold expansion means for its stock and the future of smart living.

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Breakfast Quiz: How well do you know your news headlines for June? Try your luck!

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 13:36:26 +0000

This week's quiz hones in on some of the news headlines you may have missed from the month of June.

Play along and see how you fare!!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: USD under pressure as Trump eyes new Fed Chair

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 02:30:24 +0000

Ben Emons, Chief Investment Officer, FedWatch Advisors discusses how markets are pricing in the Fed's rate moves as the US dollar falls to a new 3 1/2 year low on the Euro, and amid reports of US President Trump mulling announcing a replacement for Fed Chair Jerome Powell.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Bigger Pic: Investors reassess concentration risks, diversifying away from US

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 02:14:44 +0000

Low Guan Yi, Head of Asia Fixed Income, M&G Investments discusses how evolving US policy dynamics and regulatory uncertainty have prompted investors to reassess concentration risks in their portfolios. She notes that should such exploration continue, Asian markets appear well-positioned to attract interest.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Companies To Watch: H&M’s financial fit check

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:12:36 +0000

Fast fashion may move quickly, but the numbers don’t lie—and H&M’s latest earnings report just hit the runway. In a world where shoppers are pickier, trends are fleeting, and sustainability is no longer optional, even retail giants are feeling the pressure to reinvent.

So how’s H&M holding up? Are they strutting confidently into the future—or stitching together a last-season strategy?

Join Dan Koh and Audrey Siek as they dig into the Swedish fashion giant’s financials to see what’s working, what’s wearing thin, and what it tells us about the state of the retail industry.

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Breakfast Bites: How do you pronounce "schedule" in British & American English??

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 06:52:53 +0000

English is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world - be it in a business, educational or social setting.

Throughout the course of history, a split between British and American English developed, leading to different pronunciations of the same words.

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey explore some of these distinctions using everyday words!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo & music credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Asia local currency bonds getting attractive

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 05:50:19 +0000

In a world of shifting macroeconomic tides, Asia’s local currency bond markets are emerging as a compelling destination for global investors. Goh Rong Ren, Fixed Income Portfolio Manager, Eastspring Investments discusses the confluence of factors behind his market outlook.

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Mind Your Business: Building digital strategies that actually scale

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 01:08:33 +0000

In a world where content is everywhere and attention is scarce, how do you make your brand stand out and grow your business?

Tan Suet Keem, Co-Founder cum Chief Executive Officer, Kredence Creative Solutions joins the Breakfast show to find out how her results-driven digital agency is helping brands across Southeast Asia streamline content strategies and drive measurable growth.

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Companies To Watch: Are investors swiping left/right on Bumble?

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 00:47:01 +0000

Just a few years ago, Bumble was the darling of dating tech — bold and IPO-hot. But fast-forward to 2025, and the app’s charm is fading. Stock's down over 80% from its peak. This week? A 30% layoff, a CEO shakeup, and a stock bounce back to $6.52 after hitting lows near $5.

Join Dan Koh and Audrey Siek as they unpack Bumble’s attempt to woo back investors — from mass layoffs to product overhauls — all while the dating app industry itself might be falling out of love with growth.

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Breakfast Bites: Deconstructing the Emotional Freedom Technique, or "tapping"

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 06:33:17 +0000

We have all tried different techniques to manage stress and anxiety in our lives, whether it is talk and exposure therapy, physical exercise or making healthy lifestyle choices.

You may or may not have heard about a self-help method, "tapping," also known as the Emotional Freedom Technique.

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey deconstruct E.F.T., its apparent benefits and why some remain skeptical.

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Staying optimistic amidst Middle East uncertainties, eyeing AI

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 03:13:31 +0000

Mark Giambrone, Head of US Equities and Portfolio Manager/Analyst, Barrow Hanley Global Investors discusses why he remains optimistic about the market outlook despite the conflict in the Middle East and why he is staying overweight on AI investment plays.

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Bigger Pic: How much does the economy correlate to the stock market?

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 03:03:43 +0000

Vasu Menon, Managing Director, Investment Strategy, OCBC Bank discusses why we are not seeing a sense of panic in markets despite the conflict in the Middle East, where investors are appearing to be getting less sensitive to geopolitical developments. He also discusses the implications of oil price movements on economic growth and the stock market.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: A CEO’s perspective on future-proofing your business

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 01:13:59 +0000

In a world where change is the only constant, businesses are under constant pressure to adapt, innovate, and stay ahead of the curve. From digital transformation to evolving customer expectations, the modern business landscape demands both resilience and vision.

The Breakfast Show explores the evolving business landscape with Wee Tee Hsien, Chief Executive Officer of FUJIFILM Business Innovation Singapore and finds out how the company is turning challenges into opportunities and enabling businesses to thrive with future-ready solutions.

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Companies To Watch: What FedEx’s earnings suggests about the US economy

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 23:34:36 +0000

Despite reporting better-than-expected quarterly earnings and revenue on the back of a successful cost-cutting strategy, investors sent shares of FedEx tumbling more than 5% after a bleak forecast.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they unpack the details surrounding FedEx’s earnings report, and find out what it suggests about the overall economic health today.

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Bigger Pic: Overweight Europe & EM amid geopolitical, trade uncertainties

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 02:49:24 +0000

Francis Tan, Chief Strategist, Asia, Indosuez Wealth Management discusses why he remains optimistic over the outlook despite trade and geopolitical uncertainties. He shares his views on why he is overweight Europe & Emerging Market equities over the US, as well as encouraging signs of China's revival being reflected in the stock market.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Iran strikes US airbase in Qatar, but markets climb

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 02:45:38 +0000

Dilin Wu, Research Strategist, Pepperstone discusses what appears to be counterintuitive market responses to US intervention in the Middle East as well as Iran's strike on a US airbase in Qatar. She looks at what could drive oil prices in the near future.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang
Image: Geralt via Pixabay

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Breakfast Bites: What does your handwriting say about you?

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 01:22:30 +0000

When was the last time you wrote something by hand? And how’s your penmanship these days? You may want to consider picking up the pen, because studies have shown that writing by hand can help improve memory and even boost comprehension—way more than typing.

But besides that, it’s also a little mirror into your personality. Some experts claim it can reflect things like emotional stability, creativity, even how outgoing you are.

Find out what your handwriting says about you!

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Special: Iran, Israel and the Global Fallout

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 01:08:33 +0000

Could tensions in the Middle East be easing? U.S. President Donald Trump announced this morning a "total and complete" ceasefire between Iran and Israel. This comes on the heels of a dramatic escalation: Iran attacked a US air base in Qatar after Washington struck 3 key Iranian nuclear facilities, following a wave of Israeli bombardments.

This Breakfast Special unpacks the implications of the crisis. What ripple effects could reach Singapore and the wider region?

Dr. James Dorsey, Adjunct Senior Fellow at Nanyang Technological University’s S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, and Bhavan Jaipragas, Deputy Opinion Editor at The Straits Times, join the Breakfast Show to break it down.

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Mind Your Business: How OpenAI’s new workplace tools are redefining business operations

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 00:30:00 +0000

From automating tasks and analyzing data to summarizing meetings and integrating with the tools we use every day, generative AI is beginning to function less like software and more like a true teammate.

Explore the newest suite of workplace tools being launched inside ChatGPT with the Breakfast Show as they invite Oliver Jay, Managing Director, OpenAI International to discuss what this means for businesses, team productivity, and the future of work.

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Companies To Watch: Oil price slump and outlook amid the Iran-Israel conflict

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 23:59:03 +0000

After what seemed like a rollercoaster of conflict between Iran and Israel after the US’ involvement over the weekend, US President Donald Trump unexpectedly announced a tentative ceasefire between the two nations despite Iran attacking a US military base in Qatar. This latest development sent oil prices spiralling downwards, and reinvigorating hopes that a de-escalation of conflicts between Iran and Israel might just be around the corner.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they drill into the details of the various moving parts influencing prices of the oil market and figure out what analysts are saying about the near-term prospects of the iconic ‘black gold’.

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Bigger Pic: Trump calls to 'Make Iran Great Again'

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 02:56:10 +0000

Kyle Rodda, Senior Financial Market Analyst at capital.com discusses how the various scenarios markets have to confront with the fall-out from the US missile strike on Iranian nuclear assets over the weekend.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Morning Shot: Learning in the Age of Prompts - The Evolving Role of Generative AI in the Classroom

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 00:28:28 +0000

As generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini become more widely available, educators across Singapore, from secondary schools to universities, are grappling with a growing dilemma of how to adapt teaching and assessment methods to keep pace with AI, without losing the essence of independent thinking and learning.

This segment explores how local educators are adapting. Are students being taught how to use these tools responsibly, or are they learning to game the system? How is AI being governed by educational institutions? How do we strike the right balance between embracing new tech and maintaining academic integrity?

Professor Venky Shankararaman, Vice Provost (Education) & Professor of Information Systems at SMU and Danish Lukawski, Founder and Generative AI Lecturer at DANAMIC joins the Breakfast Show to share their insights.

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Breakfast Bites: Would you pay for a "travel buddy" to eat and take pics with you?

Sun, 22 Jun 2025 23:47:11 +0000

Would you ever hire a stranger to go on holiday with you? Say hello to the rise of the travel buddy economy — part personal guide, part bestie for the day, all rolled into one. Plus, this person is usually based at the place you’re visiting, so they have the inside scoop!

Audrey and Ryan talk about what they’d do if they were someone travel buddy, and how much someone can make being a travel buddy!

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Is Lockheed Martin a ‘buy’ amid an escalation of the Iran-Israel war?

Sun, 22 Jun 2025 23:19:00 +0000

What started as a promise to be a ‘peacemaker’ progressed to an escalation of the war between Iran and Israel, in which America is now an active participant. In a dramatic turn of events, US President Trump made the bold decision to insert the US into the fraught conflict, striking three nuclear sites in Iran over the weekend. That’s putting the strategic value of defense stocks in the spotlight.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they analyse the investment case of Lockheed Martin, one of many defense stocks that defied the bearish movement in the broad equities market amid the widening of conflict in the Middle East.

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Mind Your Business: The marketing playbook that speaks Gen Z

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 01:53:19 +0000

In today’s hyper-digital world, grabbing attention isn’t just about being online—it’s about being unforgettable. With social media platforms saturated with content, brands are in a race not just for visibility, but for relevance—especially with the Gen Z audience that’s rewriting the rules of engagement.

The Breakfast Show invites Silvia Teh, CEO & Co-founder of Confetto, a boutique creative agency that’s made a name for itself by helping businesses—particularly SMEs—cut through the digital noise with scroll-stopping content and razor-sharp strategy.

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Bigger Pic: Fragmentation between economies a new reality for Asia

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 01:47:59 +0000

Christopher Wong, Client Portfolio Strategist, South East Asia, Fidelity International discusses how the fragmentation between economies is a new reality facing Asia. He also looks at the implications of a weaker USD for the region.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Companies To Watch: SG3 - Quick picks of the week

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 01:18:10 +0000

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang on this whirlwind tour of markets as they conduct a quick analysis of 3 local Singapore stocks on this edition of Quick Pick stocks! Are they hot, or not? Tune in to find out!

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Breakfast Quiz: Donald Trump's merchandise game is strong. What has (or hasn't) he sold?!

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 23:58:40 +0000

In this week’s quiz, we hone in on some interesting ventures and merchandise that have been sold (or, are still available to buy!) with the Trump name. From steaks to sneakers, and even a Bible — Donald Trump has put his name on a wide range of products over the decades. Some have become iconic, others… less so.

So today, the quiz is called “HAS TRUMP SOLD THIS?”

Play along!

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Fed keeps rates steady with eye on tariffs, Israel-Iran conflict

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 05:18:56 +0000

Deborah Cunningham, Chief Investment Officer, Global Liquidity Markets, Federated Hermes discusses the takeaways from the Fed’s decision to keep rates on hold as officials watch Trump’s tariffs and Israel-Iran conflict.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Bigger Pic: Asian Credit increasingly a safe-haven region

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 05:01:52 +0000

Mel Siew, portfolio manager (Asia public credit), Muzinich & Co discusses he sees Europe and Emerging Markets as natural beneficiaries of the current theme of diversifying away from US assets. He shares how within Emerging Markets, Asian Credit is increasingly a safe-haven region. Siew also looks at how Asian corporates have been raising credit in local currency as the high US dollar funding environment has deterred issuers from accessing international capital markets.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: How Marina Bay Sands is redefining responsible hospitality

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 01:03:21 +0000

As the climate crisis intensifies, the hospitality industry faces a tough but exciting question: Can world-class luxury coexist with deep sustainability? In Singapore, Marina Bay Sands is answering with a bold “yes.”

Join the Breakfast Show as they speak to Roger Simons, Director of Sustainability at Marina Bay Sands about MBS’ newly released Responsible Business Report 2024, which lays out how this iconic resort is aligning with Singapore’s national Green Plan, how MBS is leading by example in reimagining what hospitality can and should be in the 21st century.

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Breakfast Bites: Struggling to sleep in economy class? Here are some tips!

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 00:34:43 +0000

If you’ve ever tried to get some shut-eye in economy class, you’ll know it’s not the easiest thing to do.

On top of that, ultra-long-haul flights are becoming more common: with a new 13-hour direct route to Vienna via Scoot, and Qantas planning 20-hour flights to London.

How can you make the most of that narrow seat space? Audrey and Ryan go through some expert tips that were covered on the Straits Times.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Nippon Steel seals acquisition of US Steel

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 23:56:56 +0000

After a long 18 month political struggle, Japan's largest steelmaker, Nippon Steel, has finally announced the acquisition of United States Steel for a staggering US$14.1 billion. Now that’s a milestone touted by veteran traders as one of the most unique they’ve ever witnessed!

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they find out what the golden share rights of the deal entail and what this could mean for both steelmakers going forward.

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Bigger Pic: Investors see more appeal in private markets in push to diversify

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 01:59:56 +0000

Eric Chng, Senior Managing Director for Global Alternatives, State Street discusses why allocations into private markets continue to rise despite a near-term slowdown in fund-raising caused by valuation mismatches and all-time high levels of dry powder.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Geopolitical volatility back in full force

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 01:51:59 +0000

Damian McIntyre, Head of Multi-Asset Solutions, Federated Hermes discusses how markets are responding over fears that Iran could use its military to shut down the Strait of Hormuz, which sees nearly 25% of all global oil production flow through it daily. He also looks at why while Tariffs and Trump's Tax bill can cause short-term volatility in July, they also have the potential to be upside catalysts for the second half.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image by Pexels from Pixabay

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Mind Your Business: Why Singapore still sets the stage for global dialogue

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 01:19:26 +0000

As Asia’s influence on the global stage grows, Singapore continues to lead as a hub for strategic dialogue and innovation. One key platform driving this momentum is the Milken Institute Asia Summit.

With a new agreement between the Singapore Tourism Board and the Milken Institute extending the Summit’s home in Singapore through 2028, the Breakfast Show invites Robin Hu, Asia Chairman of the Milken Institute to discuss the significance of this partnership and the evolving role of Asia in shaping global conversations.

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Breakfast Bites: Believe it or not, there is such a thing as "good debt". But you gotta be careful.

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:43:04 +0000

When someone says the words “I have debts to pay” or “I’m in debt” - usually we think… not good things? We often think of debt as a dirty word — something to avoid.

But not all debt is created equal. Some kinds of debt can actually help you build wealth, open doors, and improve your quality of life… if you manage them wisely.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: The stock that soared 64,000% without selling a thing

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 23:39:24 +0000

A little-known biotech firm focused on Traditional Chinese Medicine has surged over 64,000%, catapulting its valuation to nearly $10 billion. Is this a biotech breakthrough, a speculative frenzy, or something in between?

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they dissect the rise of Regencell Bioscience Holdings Limited — a company with just 12 employees, no FDA-approved products, and a CEO earning $1 a year.

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Bigger Pic: Impact of rising geopolitics on venture capital

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 02:27:51 +0000

Nicholas Cator, Founder & Managing Partner, Venturi Partners discusses how the venture capital space is grappling with the current market volatility. He shares how his consumer-focused investment portfolio of companies is coping with changing spending patterns and risk appetites. Cator also talks about what aspiring founders looking to attract VC investment need to do.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Middle East de-escalation hopes spark relief rally

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 01:56:30 +0000

José Torres, Senior Economist at Interactive Brokers discusses the risk-on mode returning to markets as concerns ease around the odds of the Israel-Iran conflict spreading wider. He also previews the FOMC rate decision in view of oil price volatility plus recent jobs and inflation data.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: What real workplace wellness looks like

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 01:06:21 +0000

It starts with a tight shoulder, a sore back, a wrist that aches after long hours at the keyboard. But in Singapore’s relentless work culture, we’re trained to push through — until small discomforts become something far more serious.

The Breakfast Show invites Amelia Lee, CEO of The Health Collective, to talk about the silent health crisis affecting office workers and why prioritising well-being is no longer optional. Together, we unpack how healthcare can be more human, more proactive, and more accessible — even in a world that glorifies burnout.

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Morning Shot: High Altitude, Higher Risks? Tackling the Rise of In-Flight Theft

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 00:13:13 +0000

Across Asia, reports of passengers having valuables stolen mid-flight are on the rise with some cases pointing to coordinated criminal groups targeting specific routes. In 2024 alone, Hong Kong saw a 75% surge in cases, while airports in Tokyo and Singapore have reported similar upticks. In Singapore, there were 4 reported cases between January 2023 and September 2024, with one case involving a man who stole the equivalent of about S$120,000 from a jeweller on a Singapore Airlines (SIA) flight in March 2024. The issue has grown serious enough for the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to put it on the agenda this year, highlighting concerns around onboard security and cross-border enforcement.

This Morning Shot episode explores what’s driving this trend, why certain routes are more vulnerable, and what’s being done, or not done, to deter in-flight theft. Dr. Alan Tan, Professor, NUS Law School (specialising in Aviation Law) joins the Breakfast Show to share his insights.

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Breakfast Bites: Rich Friend, Poor Friend - ever dealt with wealth gaps between buddies?

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 23:38:47 +0000

Have you ever been invited to a meal with a friend that you can’t quite afford? (Or maybe you can, but you’d really rather not spend that much dough on lunch.)

As we grow older, financial gaps between friends can widen. Perhaps this makes you feel out of place with your friends because you simply couldn’t afford the same lifestyle; or maybe it's YOU who realise your friends hesitate when you suggest trying out a fancy new restaurant for dinner.

What can we do to make things less awkward?

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Can Luca de Meo reengineer Kering like he did Renault?

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 23:20:08 +0000

He’s an Italian responsible for Renault's turnaround during his five years at the helm, sending its share up more than 90% over the period. Now, Luca de Meo, departing CEO of the carmaker, has been tasked with the onerous role of revitalizing Kering after the stock lost almost 80% of its value since reaching a record in August 2021.

Dan Koh and Audrey Siek venture into the world of luxury fashion to find out if De Meo’s brand management and marketing prowess is enough to turnaround the slump facing Kering, and what investors are saying about the new leadership change.

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Bigger Pic: Lookahead to the week

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 03:19:20 +0000

Daniel Tan, Portfolio Manager, Grasshopper Asset Management discusses how markets are reacting to the rising Iran-Israel tensions as well as bracing for the slew of central banks in action this week.

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Mind Your Business: Why your fraud strategy isn’t working

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 01:02:01 +0000

Asia Pacific’s digital economy is booming — faster payments, faster growth, and unfortunately, faster fraud. Despite 85% of companies increasing their fraud prevention budgets and investing heavily in defense, businesses are still bleeding — losing over 5% of their revenue to increasingly sophisticated criminal networks.

Join the Breakfast Show as they invite Matt DeLauro, President at SEON to discuss the rising tide of organised digital crime in APAC and adaptive solutions for anyone navigating risk in today's digital-first landscape.

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Breakfast Bites: "Can I borrow $100?" Is it a good or bad idea to lend people money?

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 00:00:20 +0000

“Hey, can you spot me $100?”
It’s one of the trickiest situations we face with friends and family — money.

Of course, very situation is different, and it also depends on your relationship with the person. But today, we’re breaking down a very real dilemma: Should you lend money to people you care about? Is it ever a good idea?

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo and music credit: Pixabay and their talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Boeing and the tragic Air India crash

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 23:54:12 +0000

In a string of tragic cases, Boeing’s thrown back into the spotlight again after news reports of a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner crashed shortly after take-off, carrying 242 passengers and crew. This came even after newly Chief Executive Kelly Ortberg, who took over in August, told employees that the company is on a fragile path to recovery and can’t afford another mistake.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they investigate the deadliest aviation accident in a decade and what it means for Boeing and their efforts to rebuild trust after years of setbacks tied to its troubled 737 MAX program.

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Breakfast Quiz: Time to test your Father's Day knowledge!

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 11:46:08 +0000

On this edition of the Breakfast Quiz, Emaad tests Ryan's Father's Day knowledge!

Play along and see how you fare!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Ryan Huang

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo & Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Singapore leads in crypto ownership at 28%

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 09:04:11 +0000

Saad Ahmed, Head of APAC at Gemini discusses what's driving the momentum behind Singapore taking the lead in global cryptocurrency adoption, with 28% of its population now owning digital asset. That's more than any other country surveyed in Gemini's 2025 State of Crypto Report, and marks a rise from 26% in 2024, placing it head of traditionally strong markets like the UK, US, and Australia.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Trump calls Fed chief Powell 'numbskull'

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 02:32:16 +0000

Gina Martin Adams, Chief Equity Strategist & Global Director of Equity Strategy, Bloomberg discusses if the pressure from President Donald Trump on the Fed to cut rates is warranted in view of the recent cooler than expected inflation data.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Building a jewelry empire with Maddy Barber

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 01:33:29 +0000

Before she was designing stunning, one-of-a-kind jewelry, Maddy Barber was a household voice on Singapore radio. Now, she’s the founder of MADLY Gems, a brand that's redefining what bespoke luxury means with rare, ethically sourced gemstones and bold, personal storytelling through design.

Join the Breakfast Show as they invite Maddy Barber, founder of MADLY Gems to share how she went from broadcasting to building a global jewelry brand, why she took the leap, and how she's shaking up the diamond industry—one dazzling piece at a time.

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Companies To Watch: Meta builds ‘Superintelligence AI team’

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 23:54:15 +0000

Think you know AI enough? Does a 7-9 figure pay sound good to you? If so, perhaps you may want to consider applying for Meta’s CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s superintelligence group. This comes after the Facebook-maker expressed his frustration with Meta Platform’s shortcomings in AI; personally recruiting 50 people for the team.

Join Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they analyze the details behind Zuckerberg’s latest job offering and ponder whether this superintelligence group has what it takes to outstrip other tech companies in achieving artificial general intelligence.

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Breakfast Bites: What is swimmer's ear and how can you prevent it?

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 11:16:06 +0000

Do you enjoy swimming? Good - because it's an excellent full-body exercise.

That being said, it can in some instances lead to a not-so-pleasant infection known as Swimmer's Ear?

If you haven't heard of it, Emaad and Ryan get you up to speed, and also provide tips for prevention!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Ryan Huang

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo & music credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: US-China trade deal not impressing investors yet

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 05:37:04 +0000

Nadine Terman, CEO & CIO, Solstein Capital discusses how much of a deal has been struck between the US and China, with outlines of a plan to restart the flow of sensitive goods, meaning China will speed up rare earth metal shipments, and the US will ease some export controls. She talks about what else is worrying investors.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image by Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay

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Bigger Pic: What USD gloom & doom means for investors

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 05:13:04 +0000

Heng Koon How, Head of Markets Strategy, UOB discusses how the US dollar is being weighed down by rising de-dollarization fears, ballooning US fiscal deficit, and worries about deteriorating US economic exceptionalism. He shares what investors should keep an eye on in 2H2025.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Special: SuperAI powering the new frontier

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 01:40:33 +0000

As AI races past milestones once thought decades away, the world’s brightest minds are gathering to ask: what’s next?

Here in Singapore, SuperAI 2025 brings together pioneers, founders, and prodigies to explore the future of intelligence. As SuperAI 2025 brings together a remarkable mix of creators, leaders, and challengers of the status quo, the Breakfast Show sits down with two standout voices making their mark: Peter Noszek, co-founder of SuperAI, and Jasmine Eyal, Breakthrough Junior Challenge winner and Guinness World Record holder.

Together, they dive into the big ideas shaping tomorrow — from bold innovation to the human side of AI — and what to expect as the global AI ecosystem takes the stage.

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Mind Your Business: The key to building resilient AI systems with strong governance

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 01:28:17 +0000

As AI rapidly shifts from experimental to essential, organizations around the world are racing to embed it into the very fabric of their operations. But beneath the excitement lies a growing concern: how do we scale AI responsibly—without compromising data quality, security, or public trust?

The Breakfast Show explores what it really takes to future-proof businesses in an AI-driven world with David Irecki, Chief Technology Officer for Asia Pacific & Japan at Boomi, as they unpack how organizations can prepare for the future of AI-driven integration and automation—while staying grounded in trust, transparency, and control.

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Companies To Watch: Nintendo breaking records with Switch 2!

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 23:54:42 +0000

Founded in 1889 initially as a manufacturer of hanafuda playing cards, Nintendo has come to be a household name that has exerted a profound and lasting influence on the global gaming landscape. Known for creating popular franchises like Mario, Zelda, and Pokémon, the Japanese company has yet again reinforced its influence on the sector with the official release of its latest Switch 2 console that showcased astronomical demand from consumers.

Join Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they venture into the world of Mario and Pokémon, uncovering all that you need to know about the latest Switch 2 console which has taken the world by storm, and if this spells an astronomical growth for the gaming company.

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US Markets Wrap: Short-term bonds still have attractive yields

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 10:46:56 +0000

Alex Morris, CEO, F/m Investments, discusses the second day of US-China trade talks in London; potential investment implications of the Trump-Musk fallout; expected moves from the Fed in light of recent jobs data; and why the "Split between TBIL & RBIL & Chill" strategy may be appealing to investors.

Produced/Presented: Emaad Akhtar

Image: Pixabay

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Mind Your Business: What goes behind the making of the world’s 3rd largest fiat-backed stablecoin

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 01:14:46 +0000

From facilitating cross-border payments in seconds, to unlocking new models of finance in DeFi, there’s no denying that stablecoins play a significant role in today’s financial ecosystem. But behind every stablecoin is a question: Who do we trust to issue, back, and manage these digital dollars?

Vincent Chok, CEO of First Digital joins the Breakfast Show to discuss FDUSD’s rapid rise as one of the leading stablecoins within the digital finance ecosystem and First Digital’s role in reimagining the digital asset infrastructure today.

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Bigger pic: ASEAN banks in the eye of the storm

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 01:06:02 +0000

As global markets brace for potential U.S. rate cuts and grapple with the return of Trump-era tariffs, ASEAN’s banking sector finds itself at a critical inflection point. With external shocks reshaping capital flows and trade patterns, what does this mean for bond issuance, liquidity, and the future of financial stability in the region?

Dan Koh invites Rena Kwok, CFA, Senior Credit Analyst for Asian Financials at Bloomberg Intelligence to decode the key themes driving ASEAN banks in 2H 2025 — from regulatory headwinds and FX risk to where the opportunities may lie amid the noise.

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Companies To Watch: OCBC, Great Eastern & the shareholder showdown

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 00:19:04 +0000

In one of the most closely watched corporate moves in Singapore this year, OCBC’s S$900 million conditional exit offer to privatize Great Eastern Holdings has ignited a storm of scrutiny, shareholder activism, and questions about governance.

Find out what’s at stake with Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they investigate the details; from OCBC’s rationale and strategic intent to the valuation pushback and public reaction.

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US Markets Wrap: Semiconductor stocks rise following US-China trade talks

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 09:55:24 +0000

Christine Short, Vice President of Research, Wall Street Horizon discusses the significance of US-China trade talks in London, especially around critical minerals; what market watchers can expect from two key inflation readings (CPI and PPI) this week; and why Apple's 2025 Developers Conference didn't wow investors on the AI front.

Produced/Presented: Emaad Akhtar

Image: Pixabay

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Mind Your Business: How Agnes AI puts Singapore on the AI map

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 01:51:51 +0000

While the world’s AI race has been led by Silicon Valley and Beijing, Singapore has quietly stepped onto the world stage with a bold new creation: Agnes AI. Dubbed ‘Singapore’s DeepSeek’, this next-gen agent was built entirely on local soil.

Today, the Breakfast Show meets Bruce Yang, Co-Founder of SapiensAI, the visionary behind Agnes—and explores what this means for the future of AI in Southeast Asia.

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Bigger pic: Decoding US-China negotiations and S&P surge

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 01:17:04 +0000

After more than six hours behind closed doors in a grand 19th-century London mansion, US and Chinese officials wrapped up the first day of pivotal negotiations in the British capital. What came out of these high-stakes talks? Dan Koh welcomes Sean Teo, Sales Trader at SAXO, to break it all down.

Together, they unpack the key takeaways from the diplomatic exchange, delve into the latest US non-farm payroll numbers, and take a closer look at the S&P 500—now edging ever closer to its record high from February.

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Companies To Watch: DBS making history on SGX!

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 00:26:28 +0000

In a monumental milestone for the Singapore exchange, DBS has become the first listed company in Singapore to reach $100 billion in market value! Join Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they find out what’s driving DBS’ stellar performance and how analysts believe their stock will perform for the rest of this year.

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Bigger pic: Bulls are back in South Korea

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 01:23:13 +0000

Despite posting a second straight month of contraction, Singapore’s PMI revealed an improvement in overall factory activity amid a de-escalation of global powers’ trade tensions. What does this suggest about the state of the economy? Also, on the back of a new political landscape, does newly-elect Lee Jae-myung have what it takes to revive the economic crisis that South Korea’s in today? Join Dan Koh as he invites Pan Jingyi, Economics Associate Director, S&P Global Market Intelligence to breakdown all you need to know.

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Morning Shot: Rethinking Fatherhood in the Workplace

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 01:21:34 +0000

While more Singaporean fathers want to play an active role at home, workplace culture and policy haven’t fully caught up. With only around half of eligible dads taking paternity leave, the reality is that many working fathers face structural and cultural barriers when it comes to being present parents.

Dr. Xander Ong, CEO of Centre for Fathering joins the Breakfast Show to explore how far Singapore has come in supporting working dads and how much further we need to go. Are employers ready to offer flexibility and emotional support for fatherhood the way they’ve done for working mothers? What will it take to build truly inclusive family-first workplaces, where both parents are empowered to be caregivers?

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Companies To Watch: What the world’s biggest breakup could mean for Tesla

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 01:10:35 +0000

If there’s one thing we understand about breakups, it’s that it's never good to air your dirty laundry on social media. And in the case of US President Donald Trump and CEO Elon Musk, Tesla’s emerged as the unfortunate victim of this wrangle, losing more than $150 billion in market value in a single day.

Join Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they unpack the latest drama between Trump and Musk, and how an open with the president could pose multiple hurdles for Tesla and the rest of Musk's sprawling business empire.

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Mind Your Business: Community, Collaboration & a Cause worth playing for

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 01:09:00 +0000

As Singapore celebrates SG60, AMP Singapore and Berita Harian come together for their first-ever charity golf and dinner event—uniting sport, philanthropy, and purpose.

Mokhsin Mohd Rashid, Executive Director of AMP Singapore joins the Breakfast Show to discuss the vision behind the event, the causes it supports, and what it means to lead a legacy organisation into the future.

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Breakfast Bites: Customs woes? Here is how to dodge issues after a holiday abroad!

Sun, 08 Jun 2025 22:53:17 +0000

Have you ever been stopped at customs after a nice, shopping-filled holiday? Breezing through the Green Channel is always a relief - but there are rules you need to follow to make sure you have a good experience once you land at Changi airport.

Audrey and Emaad discuss the Straits Times article about the tips you need to know to avoid unnecessary travel trouble.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo credit: Kua Chee Siong via The Straits Times

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: How markets may react to May non-farm payrolls report

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 01:28:32 +0000

Chris Weston, Head Of Research, Pepperstone discusses the future trajectory of US equities including risks, the noise likely to emanate from the debate in the Senate on the Big Beautiful Bill, how markets may react to May non-farm payrolls data out on Friday, continued downside risks to the USD, and what this all means for gold.

Produced/Presented: Emaad Akhtar

Image: Pixabay

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Mind Your Business: Why live commerce is more than just a digital sales gimmick

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 01:25:08 +0000

In an age where attention is currency and authenticity drives conversion, one platform is rewriting the rules of engagement: live-streaming. From TikTok Shop to Shopee Live, live commerce is no longer just a trend — it’s becoming one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing sales channels. But beyond flashy product demos and influencer cameos, what does it really take to turn viewers into loyal customers — and content into a thriving business?

Genecia Alluora Luo, Co-Founder of Alluora Skincare joins the Breakfast Show to discuss how she’s leveraging the power of live-streaming to grow her brand, reach untapped markets, and build meaningful connections with customers — all while redefining what success looks like for women-led businesses in Southeast Asia.

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Bigger pic: Winners and losers of a rate cut by the ECB and RBI

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 01:16:37 +0000

In a widely anticipated move, the European Central Bank cut interest rates by 25 basis points to 2% on Thursday, but also suggested that it’s closing to the endpoint for an easing cycle. How should investors be reading the latest decision and is that too early of a call amid the tariff trade war? Find out with Dan Koh as he is joined by Abhilash Narayan, Investment Strategist, HSBC Global Private Banking and Premier Wealth to discuss all you need to know about the latest ECB meeting.

They also find out the possible implications of Trump’s steel tariff hike and the sectors that could benefit greatly from a rate cut by the Reserve Bank of India.

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Breakfast Quiz: June holidays are underway - let’s ‘school’ you during this travel season!

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 00:14:03 +0000

The June School Holidays are underway: which kid doesn’t love a month-long holiday? With Ryan actually enjoying the break with his kids today, you get a true or false test version of the weekly quiz. Are you up to speed on the travel trends this month, and where Singaporeans love to go with their kids during this time?

Play along at home! Happy vacay!

Presented by Audrey Siek & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo & Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: The stock that soared more than 2,300% since its IPO

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 23:59:52 +0000

China’s ‘Hermes of gold’ is shining brighter than ever, and that’s worrying investors… Laopu Gold, a Chinese company that has blended cultural elements within contemporary designs is enjoying an extraordinary stock surge after its stock price hit a staggering HK$1,000!

Join Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they dissect what analysts are saying about the iconic jeweller’s stock performance and if it has further room left to run.

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US Markets Wrap: Weakening greenback due to cyclical, secular factors

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 02:08:53 +0000

Kyle Rodda, Senior Financial Market Analyst, capital.com explains the cyclical and secular factors behind the US dollar's continued weak showing, whether global investors are actively rotating out of dollar-denominated assets and the EM carry trade will gather steam, as well as why recent tech results are being underappreciated.

Produced/Presented: Emaad Akhtar

Image: Pixabay

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Bigger Pic: Where to invest in the APAC market today

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 01:25:08 +0000

Signs of the impact of US President Donald Trump’s tariffs are finally revealing after China reported shrinking factory activity in May for the first time in eight months. But that isn’t enough to keep investors at bay as Chinese stocks rose after Chinese President Xi Jinping reaffirmed his plans for manufacturing-led growth. Where can investors find opportunities in the Chinese market? And how can we diversify our portfolios internationally? Find out with Dan Koh as he speaks to Thomas Taw, Head of APAC Investment Strategy, BlackRock.

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Mind Your Business: From crayon to company

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 01:21:10 +0000

What if your next big business idea came from your child’s sketchbook? That’s the story of MonstroJ—a creative brand born from the monster doodles of a 3-year-old boy.

Stell Lim & Jacus Lim, Founder, MonstroJ join the Breakfast Show to discuss how they are turning everyday moments into meaningful ventures through his doodles—and how entrepreneurs can find powerful ideas in the most unexpected places.

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Breakfast Bites: No wifi, no phone, no screens - Would you go on a “digital detox retreat”?

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 00:33:23 +0000

Imagine you’re planning for a vacation, and you see a little icon below a very idyllic, nice looking resort. And it says “No wifi”. Is that a plus, or a negative?

Many now see this as a benefit, believe it or not - exclusively cutting out devices during their “digital detox retreats”.

Luxury resorts are even offering “digital detox concierges” who take your devices at check-in. Yes, someone physically removes your phone!

Is this something you’d try?

Presented by Audrey Siek & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo & Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Companies To Watch: Robinhood hitting all time highs - should you be joining the run?

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 00:10:41 +0000

Almost 4 years after its widely anticipated stock market debut, Robinhood Markets is finally soaring to all time highs, largely driven by a wave of optimism in the cryptocurrency market.

Join Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they unpack the latest behind the brokerage app’s latest bull run, and why their recent acquisition of Bitstamp is brightening its future outlook.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US Markets Wrap: Growth picture remains solid despite OECD's slashed forecasts

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 02:16:34 +0000

Todd Rabold, Investment Management Partner, Callan Family Office discusses the main highlights from the economy's stellar performance in May, whether the OECD's slashed growth forecasts may throw a spanner in the works and why much of the concern around Trump tariffs has largely dissipated.

Produced/Presented: Emaad Akhtar

Image: Pixabay

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Mind Your Business: How Volt Auto is driving the future of EVs in Singapore

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 02:06:46 +0000

The shift to electric vehicles is happening fast, and Singapore is at the forefront of the movement. But how can local startups compete in an industry dominated by global giants?

Soh Ming, Founder and Managing Director, DongFeng Singapore joins the Breakfast Show to discuss how his company is shaking up the EV market and pushing the boundaries of sustainable mobility.

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Breakfast Bites: You are what you eat - and it also affects your sleep!

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 01:54:08 +0000

We all have good nights and bad nights when it comes to sleep; but how much do you think diet plays into the quality of your rest?

If you’ve been struggling to get a good night’s sleep, experts say - your dinner—or even that sneaky late-night snack—might be partly to blame. Audrey and Emaad discuss tips on what to eat to get yourselves a good snooze!

Presented by Audrey Siek & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by Audrey Siek

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo & Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger pic: Will US equities hit new highs in June?

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 01:12:35 +0000

After a nightmarish Spring which saw the US stock market bottoming out in April, equities are defying gravity thanks to optimism that a tariff-induced economic meltdown might be averted. Will it be enough to fuel a new record high this month?

Dan Koh invites Ray Heung, Senior Investment Strategist, Standard Chartered Bank on the Bigger Picture to discuss the investment case for US equities, how investors should be digesting news of the latest US and China dispute, and why investors might want to pay attention to long-term US bonds today.

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Companies To Watch: Shrinking investors' appetite for Tung Lok

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 23:45:19 +0000

If you’re a huge fan of authentic Chinese cuisine, you probably would’ve heard of Tung Lok group and their chain of restaurants! From Singapore-style seafood to the iconic peking duck, it’s no surprise that the group has come to be one of the go-to spots for Chinese food lovers. But unfortunately, that alone isn’t enough to shield it from Singapore’s F&B slump.

Join Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they digest Tung Lok’s latest quarterly earnings report and figure what headwinds from a subdued economic outlook and softer consumer sentiment would mean for the group.

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US Markets Wrap: Tariff tantrums, what do markets do next?

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 02:59:09 +0000

Jason Britton, Founder and CIO, Reflection Asset Management discusses how the continuing sign of the times will be Trump's tariffs and the administration's willingness to subject the US economy to tantrums while the Federal Reserve looks to see what, if any, actual effects permeate the economy, and whether those effects cool inflation and or slow job growth.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image: Pixabay

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Breakfast Bites: Do you know how Dr. Seuss's name is CORRECTLY pronounced?!?!

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 02:55:16 +0000

We talk about or quote famous people (think celebrities, authors, artists) pretty regularly - during conversations with friends, family and at work.

But how often are we pronouncing these names correctly?

There are more than a handful out there that even the most ardent fans probably haven't gotten right.

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey dive into some of the commonly mispronounced star names.

Presented by: Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by: Emaad Akhtar

Edited by: Trisha Yeong

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: 3 reasons why Asian fixed income should continue to outperform in 2025

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 02:43:20 +0000

Ang Ze Yi, Fixed Income Portfolio Manager, Allianz Global Investors discusses what's driving the outperformance by Asia fixed income, and how the tariff tensions are being priced in by markets.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Morning Shot: Is Singapore built for retirement?

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 00:56:23 +0000

Singapore’s population is ageing fast and by 2030, about one in four citizens will be over 65. As the retirement age rises and lifespans stretch, it is important for Singaporeans to understand what it really takes to retire well in Singapore, and what kind of life one can expect in those later years.

This segment takes a closer look at what makes Singapore a livable place for retirement, from accessible healthcare, public safety, and transport infrastructure. It will look into the government policies that have been implemented to aid the ageing population, its effectiveness, and how that specific demographic is being encouraged to continue to participate in society. It will also examine the trade-offs Singaporeans need to consider as they plan for retirement, including what a fulfilling retirement looks like today and how cultural values, family expectations, and emotional preparedness shape those decisions.

Dr. Kelvin Tan, President of the Society for Gerontechnology & Head of Programme in Applied Ageing Studies at SUSS and Lim Ai Leen, Associate Foreign Editor at The Straits Times, share their insights on the topic.

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Companies To Watch: The hot investment case of AstraZeneca

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 23:20:21 +0000

The medical industry has achieved a new clinical milestone. In what’s touted as a transformational shift in how we approach precision medicine, AstraZeneca released a new study, revealing how its experimental breast cancer pill delayed disease progression by over six months.

Join Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they venture into the world of medicine, and analyze what AstraZeneca’s new discovery could mean for its business and cancer treatment moving forward.

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Bigger Pic: Downgrading U.S. equities from neutral to underweight

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 02:40:48 +0000

Eddy Loh, Chief Investment Officer, Maybank Singapore's Group Wealth Management discusses how the back and forth on tariffs sets up June after a better than expected month of May. He walks through the likelihood of tariff escalations, as well as why he is more cautious towards global equities particularly US stocks.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Bites: Why are CEOs jumping on the social media video bandwagon??

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 02:35:25 +0000

CEOs of big companies are often not the most easily approachable. They typically go about their business behind closed doors, away from the public eye.

But that's starting to change.

Chief executives are now turning to social media video as a means to connect more deeply with staff, shareholders and investors.

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey share more!

Presented by: Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by: Emaad Akhtar

Edited by: Trisha Yeong

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Reinventing protein for tomorrow

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 01:17:15 +0000

As demand grows for healthier, more sustainable food, NuFood Concept Studio is leading the charge — blending science, taste, and speed to bring better-for-you products to market. At the center of this innovation: a breakthrough Q Protein-enhanced hybrid meat, co-created by Nurasa, Quality Meat, and Cremer.

Guo Xiuling, CEO of Nurasa & Joey Oh, General Manager, Quality Meat, join the Breakfast Show to explore how this powerful partnership is reshaping what’s on our plates — and why it matters.

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Companies To Watch: How this Chinese company is easing investors’ concerns

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 23:52:27 +0000

Gaming might very well be the new safe haven! From regulatory support to a wave of youthful consumerism, NetEase is undoubtedly enjoying a surge in spending amid US tariffs and chip-export restrictions.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they travel into the world of gaming, analyzing the investing case for one of China’s biggest internet companies, and why this sector is worth a second look today.

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Breakfast Quiz: How well do you remember the biggest news headlines from May?

Fri, 30 May 2025 04:06:00 +0000

As usual, at the last Friday of the month, The Breakfast Show reviews the biggest news headlines of the last few weeks, and what has happened in Singapore and around the world.

Play along with the team!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Trisha Yeong

Photo & Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Why most family businesses fail, and how boards can get succession right

Fri, 30 May 2025 02:49:36 +0000

Most family businesses have a short life span, rarely going beyond their founder’s stage. In fact, it's estimated that 95 percent of family businesses do not survive the third generation of ownership. This is often seen as the result of a lack of sustainable governance structures, unmanaged growth risks and failure to address succession. Dr. Jay Bevington, partner in Heidrick & Struggles’ Dubai office, and a member of the CEO & Board of Directors Practice discusses how family businesses can navigate these issues.

Presented: Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

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US Markets Wrap: Consumers have not given up, growth stocks remain the story

Fri, 30 May 2025 02:27:50 +0000

Michele Schneider, Chief Strategist, MarketGauge Group looks at the pockets of strength in the markets led by retail and semiconductors - reflecting how consumers have not given up, and the growth stocks remain the story. She zooms in how in the retail space, the vanity trade based on the domino effect of the diet drugs is waking up-from a trend to a megatrend.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: How today’s Chief Risk Officers are shaping strategic resilience

Fri, 30 May 2025 01:39:11 +0000

From cyber threats and regulatory shake-ups to reputational landmines and climate risks, organisations are facing a complex web of challenges that demand more than traditional risk management. But how exactly is the role of a Chief Risk Officer evolving? And what does it reveal about the future of business?

Ashley Wallace, Managing Director, Head of Financial Services, Asia Pacific at Russell Reynolds Associates joins the Breakfast Show to discuss how CROs are driving enterprise-wide resilience, influencing C-suite strategy, and preparing organisations for what’s next.

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Companies To Watch: Manchester United’s stock tanks further into the red

Fri, 30 May 2025 00:09:17 +0000

From losing its chance at silverware after a 1-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, to missing out the Champions League football next season and a shocking loss to a South-east Asian XI in Kuala Lumpur, one would think if this could get any worse for the red devils.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they unravel the factors pushing Manchester United’s stock deeper into the red, and what this could mean for investors and fans going forward.

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Bigger Pic: Will more S-Reits soon exit the local market?

Thu, 29 May 2025 03:39:56 +0000

Alvin Chow, CEO, Dr Wealth weights the pros and cons of the latest bid by Frasers Hospitality Trust to going private to unlock value for investors - its second attempt in three years. This follows Paragon Reit's plans to also go private as looks to facilitate a major AEI at its flagship property. Is this a sign of more delistings on the cards?

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Tech & quality are the places to be

Thu, 29 May 2025 03:13:02 +0000

Yussef Gheriani, Director of Investments and Operations, IHT Wealth Management discusses how Nvidia's latest earnings report reflects how the AI wave is real - which is why tech and quality are the places for investors to be.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Rethinking data for the AI finance era

Thu, 29 May 2025 01:40:23 +0000

In a region where small and medium enterprises fuel the economy, the future of finance hinges on more than just algorithms — it’s about how intelligently we manage the data that powers them. But for SMEs across Asia, smart data isn’t just a tech upgrade — it’s a competitive edge.

Kunal Anand, Chief Innovation Officer at F5 joins the Breakfast Show to discuss how smarter data strategies are unlocking new possibilities for growth, security, and agility in AI-led finance.

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Breakfast Bites: Leaving your job? Should you give your bosses a heads up before you officially resign?

Thu, 29 May 2025 00:56:35 +0000

Are you thinking about leaving your job? If you are, you don’t have to tell us - but should you tell your boss? Here’s a question many professionals struggle with, and it was addressed by ASkST on the Straits Times.

Before you hand in your official resignation, should you ever tell your boss in advance - like a heads up? Audrey, Ryan and Emaad discuss their thoughts.

Presented by: Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by: Audrey Siek

Edited by: Trisha Yeong

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: What you need to know about Circle’s IPO

Thu, 29 May 2025 00:24:27 +0000

In a potentially game-changing event for the cryptocurrency industry, USDC stablecoin issuer Circle Internet Group announced that it has initiated an IPO on the New York Stock Exchange to raise more than $600 million.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang dive into the world of digital currencies, analysing the details of Circle’s IPO, and figuring out what kind of impact this would have on crypto moving forward.

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US Markets Wrap: New monthly highs on the horizon?

Wed, 28 May 2025 05:47:11 +0000

Mark Newton, Managing Director & Global Head of Technical Strategy, Fundstrat Global Advisors shares why he believes the broader markets (SPX, QQQ) have generally not broken their uptrends. He also looks at how Apple is positioned after going through range-bound consolidation lately. Newton adds his views on why Copper is worth looking at and the various ways to approach investing in it.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image by Geralt via Pixabay

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Bigger Pic: Where to find dividend opportunities across Asia

Wed, 28 May 2025 05:20:27 +0000

Christina Woon, Portfolio Manager, Eastspring Investments discusses where investors can find the best dividend opportunities across Asia, and how she has repositioned her market approach since "Liberation Day". She also looks at whether Asia technology stocks are worth chasing.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: How AI-Human hybrids are rewriting cybercrime

Wed, 28 May 2025 01:05:04 +0000

It sounds like your boss. It reads like your coworker. But it’s not them—it’s a scam, engineered by AI and executed by a human.

Paul Wilcox, Vice President of Asia Pacific and Japan at Infoblox joins the Breakfast Show to discuss everything you need to know about the chilling rise of hybrid scams, and what it will take to outsmart them.

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Breakfast Bites: Are you pronouncing "hummus" and these other foods correctly?

Wed, 28 May 2025 01:04:20 +0000

We've all been guilty of butchering the pronunciation of some of our favourite foods in the past before being humbly corrected by our friends, family or Google.

On this edition of Breakfast Bites, Emaad serves up 10 foods for Ryan and Audrey to test their pronunciation skills!

Presented by: Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by: Emaad Akhtar

Edited by: Trisha Yeong

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Will Xiaomi’s SUV YU7 revive EV orders for the phonemaker?

Tue, 27 May 2025 23:53:40 +0000

Since its founding back in 2010, Xiaomi has come to be one of the biggest household names across the world. From excelling in the manufacturing of phones to every home appliance you can think of, the consumer electronics maker is pushing boundaries yet again, by unveiling its latest iteration of automobiles - the YU7 SUV.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they explore Xiaomi’s latest financial report card and find out if the smartphone maker’s ‘Tesla Model Y killer’ has what it takes to capture a portion of the automobile pie.

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US Markets Wrap: Too late to jump on defensive trades

Tue, 27 May 2025 03:34:39 +0000

Mark Giambrone, Head of US Equities and Portfolio Manager / Analyst, Barrow Hanley Global Investors discusses why now may be a better time to start scouting for undervalued riskier assets, amid the uncertainty from the tariff environment.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Morning Shot: From Kitchen to Closure - Inside Singapore’s F&B Squeeze

Tue, 27 May 2025 02:39:13 +0000

Behind every shuttered café or restaurant is a difficult, often deeply emotional decision. Rising rents, falling margins, changing consumer habits, all of these weigh heavily on owners trying to balance financial survival with personal investment and passion.

This segment unpacks the real-world pressures and challenges the F&B Industry is facing today, taking a look into the tipping points business owners face especially with steep rental costs, the support structures that could make a difference, and what’s at stake if more independent players are forced out of Singapore’s F&B landscape.

With insights from long-time F&B operator Heidi Tan, co-owner of Flor Patisserie, and Dr. Guy Llewellyn, Assistant Professor of Hospitality at EHL Hospitality Business School, to help us unpack what’s really going on and what might need to change.

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Mind Your Business: How the world’s first customer experience rating system is redefining the real estate landscape

Tue, 27 May 2025 01:47:17 +0000

We’ve rated hotels, ranked restaurants, and scored buildings for energy—but what about how a space feels to the people inside it? In this episode, the Breakfast Show explores a revolutionary concept that could redefine how we design, evaluate, and invest in buildings: a star rating system for human-centric customer experience.

Join in on this conversation as they speak to Dr. Marigold Kimura, the inventor and founder of EXPIScore, and Mr. Peter Holland, Executive Advisor, to unpack how their groundbreaking system brings clarity to the invisible, emotional side of real estate.

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Breakfast Bites: "Don't go to bed angry with your partner." Is this true?!

Tue, 27 May 2025 00:34:28 +0000

We've all heard of the age old saying. Let’s say you’ve just gotten into a fight with your spouse, maybe even your parents.... or something happened at work and you’re still seething - is it ever okay to go to bed angry?

For a long time, we’ve all been told never to do that — that arguments should be done and dusted before your head hits the pillow. But psychologists now say that advice might not be as helpful as we think. So here are some reasons why you SHOULD!

Presented by: Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by: Audrey Siek

Edited by: Trisha Yeong

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Japan Foods Holding struggles to hold up

Mon, 26 May 2025 23:44:42 +0000

Established back in 1997, Japan Foods, the brains behind iconic restaurants like Ajisen Ramen and Fruit Paradise, had just reported their latest financial results and spoiler alert - consumers are spending less…

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they investigate what’s driving Japan Foods’ losses deeper during the recent quarter and how the Japanese restaurant chain hopes to execute its turnaround strategy.

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Bigger Pic: Markets kick off week with another tariff U-turn

Mon, 26 May 2025 03:04:50 +0000

Mitul Kotecha, Head of Asia FX and Rates Strategy, Barclays discusses what to look out for in the week ahead, amid another U-turn on tariffs by US President Donald Trump. Last Friday, he had threatened to slap 50% tariffs on the European Union for what he saw as its indifference towards negotiating a trade deal. He changed his mind after a phone call on Sunday, pausing the hikes until July 9th. Kotecha also discusses how the Fed will be positioned for rate cuts with the next set of FOMC minutes due on Thursday.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: What you’re not taught about parenthood

Mon, 26 May 2025 01:27:09 +0000

We often treat childbirth education as a checklist—learn the stages of labor, pack the hospital bag, breathe. But what if the real preparation isn’t just physical, but emotional and relational?

Explore the hidden gaps in how we prepare for one of life’s biggest transitions—and why both mums and dads deserve more than just basic instructions with the Breakfast Show as they speak to Rynette Joyce Tan, founder of 13Thirteen.

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Breakfast Bites: When is it OK to touch a stranger??

Mon, 26 May 2025 00:58:04 +0000

You may have experienced touching or being touched by a stranger at some point in your life.

But when is it ok to do so? Are there certain situations or circumstances that would justify coming into contact with someone you don't know?

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey share their personal experiences and some expert insights.

Presented by: Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by: Emaad Akhtar

Edited by: Trisha Yeong

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Is BYD Europe’s new favourite EV?

Sun, 25 May 2025 23:59:15 +0000

In a historical moment for Europe’s car market, BYD has officially overtaken Tesla in car sales, registering close to a 170% rise from last year. This pushes the Chinese car manufacturer into the top 10 brands by EV sales! How much higher can it go?

Find out with Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they analyze the latest numbers driving BYD’s exponential growth in the EU market and what this means for Tesla going forward.

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Bigger Pic: What China tech earnings tell us about the economy

Fri, 23 May 2025 05:23:52 +0000

Lee Kian Soon, CEO, Astral Asset Management discusses the key takeaways from the mixed bag of earnings from China's tech giants, and what they tell us about the state of the economy in view of April data showing Chinese retail sales came in below expectations, highlighting a continued lack of confidence among consumers. He also discusses Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang's criticism of how US chip restrictions are backfiring.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Tax bill narrowly clears House, raises US deficit fears

Fri, 23 May 2025 04:40:49 +0000

Dilin Wu, Research Strategist, Pepperstone discusses the significance of US policy makers approver a bill - with tax cuts and increased military spending - estimated at nearly $4 trillion. She also reviews the opportunities in the Hang Seng Index and Gold.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image by Qimono via Pixabay

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Breakfast Quiz: From monkeys to otters - here’s a quiz on strange animal sightings!

Fri, 23 May 2025 02:30:42 +0000

This week’s Breakfast Quiz is pegged to the news story you must have seen this week out of Punggol: wild macaques breaking into some homes, causing some chaos with 200 complaints so far.

So today - we are playing a quiz called “Wait, What Animal?!” - all about strange animal sightings in Singapore. What have YOU encountered yourself??

Presented by: Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced by: Audrey Siek

Edited by: Trisha Yeong

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: The most overlooked thing in your kitchen that deserves more attention

Fri, 23 May 2025 01:27:14 +0000

It’s one of the most used—and most overlooked—features in your kitchen. From scrubbing pans to prepping meals, the humble sink does it all… but how often do we really think about what makes a good one?

Vinay Asdhir, Co-founder, Zuhne joins the Breakfast Show to explore how durability, design, and affordability can actually coexist in a high-quality product, and why the sink might just be the silent centerpiece of your kitchen.

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Companies To Watch: HSBC downgrades UnitedHealth. Should you?

Thu, 22 May 2025 23:24:02 +0000

What started out as a competitive edge that gave UnitedHealth an unstoppable upward trajectory in its stock price has become its very liability. From the surge of medical costs to political scrutiny, it looks like the series of setbacks is starting to waver the health behemoth’s dominance.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they investigate the allegations of UnitedHealth making secret payments to nursing homes in order to cut costs and what it might take to reinvigorate hope into its stock that has been beaten down more than 40%.

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Bigger Pic: Singapore keeps 2025 growth forecast at 0% to 2% despite tariff concerns

Thu, 22 May 2025 03:45:38 +0000

Barnabas Gan, Group Chief Economist & Head of Market Research, RHB Bank discusses Singapore keeping its economic growth forecast for 2025 at zero per cent to 2 per cent, while noting that the external demand outlook for the rest of the year has “improved slightly”, given the tariff truces that have de-escalated global trade tensions.

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US Markets Wrap: Weak bond auction weighs on market sentiment

Thu, 22 May 2025 03:26:09 +0000

Shane Oliver, Chief Economist & Head of Investment Strategy, AMP Capital discusses the spike in bond yields following a weak auction of 20-year bonds. The selloff in long term debt saw equity markets having their worst session in a month, with the S&P 500’s slide topping 1.5%. He also discusses the implications of a weakening greenback.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Bites: Here's why gardening can help you live better for longer

Thu, 22 May 2025 03:13:16 +0000

Sometimes, going back to our roots is the best way to recharge and re-energize.

There's perhaps no better example of this than spending more time in that back yard (if you have one) and indulging in some gardening.

In fact science suggests that having a green thumb can help you live better for longer.

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey tell you more.

Presented by: Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by: Emaad Akhtar

Edited by: Trisha Yeong

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Is Chanel losing its shine?

Thu, 22 May 2025 00:20:02 +0000

Since its founding in 1909, Chanel has evolved into one of the most recognizable brands worldwide, responsible for creating top-quality designer handbags, accessories, clothing. But in the face of Trump’s tariff war, how is the flap bag maker faring?

Join Dan Koh and Audrey Siek as they take a deep look into Chanel’s latest earnings report card, which revealed a significant drop in sales across the board. They also find out if the powerhouse fashion brand’s newly appointed artistic director has what it takes to reinvigorate hope amid a slump in the luxury market.

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Bigger Pic: Remove watchlist, streamline rules to revive the SGX?

Wed, 21 May 2025 04:35:18 +0000

More ideas have been laid out to revive the Singapore Exchange by market regulators, as part of the ongoing bid by the Equities Market Review Group to attract IPOs and boost investor interest. Among these, the MAS is proposing for disclosure requirements to be simplified to make the listing process easier and help firms provide more relevant information to investors. Concurrently, SGX RegCo is considering doing away with the financial watch list, after feedback that it has unintended negative effects on business confidence and access to financing. Mak Yuen Teen, founding director of the Centre for Investor Protection and Professor (Practice) of Accounting at the NUS Business School weighs the pros and cons of the proposals.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Tech sell off snaps Wall Street's six-day winning streak

Wed, 21 May 2025 04:02:12 +0000

Kyle Rodda, Senior Financial Market Analyst at Capital.com discusses the tech sell off weighing on markets in the latest Wall Street session, which snapped a six-day winning streak. He also shares why he is short on the USD and long on gold.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: How attackers are outsmarting organizations in 2025

Wed, 21 May 2025 01:18:44 +0000

In today’s cyber battlefield, the front lines have shifted—from hardened networks and firewalls to something far more vulnerable: people. The 2025 Global Threat Report from cybersecurity leader CrowdStrike reveals a stark new reality: humans are now the primary targets in the evolving landscape of cybercrime.

In this episode of Mind Your Business, Fabio Fratucello, Field CTO, World Wide at CrowdStrike, to unpack the major findings from the report and how companies and individuals alike should respond before it’s too late.

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Breakfast Bites: Matcha, Bubble, Bulletproof - Enjoy a cuppa this International Tea Day!

Wed, 21 May 2025 00:42:12 +0000

Today’s the perfect excuse to put the kettle on — because it’s International Tea Day!

Some of us might think of tea as just your morning pick-me-up or that soothing cup before bed, but tea is more than just a beverage. It’s a drink with history, culture and has had large economic implications on the entire world.

Audrey, Ryan and Emaad chat about their favourite teas, famous IPOs, and how different cultures enjoy it.

Presented by: Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced and Edited by: Audrey Siek

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Is CATL a no brainer buy?

Tue, 20 May 2025 23:44:29 +0000

Despite being blacklisted by the Pentagon and facing significant headwinds from Trump's tariff trade war, that hasn’t stopped Contemporary Amperex Technology from wrapping up the world’s biggest listing this year by raising $4.6 billion. And some analysts have even called it a ‘no brainer buy’...

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they dive deep into the world of electric vehicles, analyzing what’s driving strong confidence in the world’s biggest producer of lithium-ion EV batteries and if they are capable of holding the moat in years to come.

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Bigger Pic: Singapore bracing for tariff-fueled slowdown

Tue, 20 May 2025 04:49:22 +0000

Song Seng Wun, Singapore Economic Advisor, CGS International discusses how optimistic the outlook following signs of US-China trade tensions easing. He examines the latest update from the Singapore Economic Resilience Taskforce, including the potential impact of sector-specific tariffs on pharmaceuticals and semiconductors.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Investors shake off US debt grade

Tue, 20 May 2025 04:19:18 +0000

George Schultze, Founder and Managing Member at Schultze Asset Management discusses how despite recent easing of U.S.-China trade tensions, significant uncertainties persist. He shares why more investors are looking beyond the US to other markets for better opportunities.

Produced/Presented: Ryan

Image: Pixabay

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Morning Shot: Leadership Transitions at Work: How to Adapt to a New Boss (or Be One)

Tue, 20 May 2025 03:41:34 +0000

When a new boss takes over, even the most high-performing teams can feel off balance. Employees often find themselves second-guessing how to communicate, how to prove their value, or how to align with a different leadership style. On the other hand, new managers face their own set of challenges, from building trust quickly to navigating a team culture they didn’t create. So how can both sides manage this common but tricky transition more smoothly?

This morning, we take a closer look at what really makes leadership transitions succeed or fall apart. From communication missteps to trust-building strategies, we’ll unpack the key dynamics that shape those first critical weeks when a manager comes onboard.

Adeline Tiah, Founder of Soar Collective Asia & Leadership and Team Coach at Unilever shares her insights.

Presented by: Emaad Akhtar

Produced and Edited by: Trisha Yeong

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Companies To Watch: Can SIA’s share price continue to fly higher?

Tue, 20 May 2025 01:44:53 +0000

Wouldn’t it be nice to be rewarded with a more than 7 months bonus 2 years in a row? Lucky for Singapore Airlines’ employees, that’s a benefit well deserved after the company reported yet another year of strong earnings results!

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they take a tour of SIA’s financial report card to find out what’s driving the generosity of the airline and what analysts are forecasting for its share price performance.

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Mind Your Business: The Tutor Illusion - Why big promises don’t always mean big results

Tue, 20 May 2025 01:43:02 +0000

In a world where education is big business, how do you separate real value from flashy marketing? From the murky waters of unethical tactics used by tuition centres—misleading testimonials, inflated promises, to the ‘top tutor’ illusion, how can parents find the ‘perfect tutor’ for their child?

The Breakfast Show speaks to Gary Ong, the Founder of Genius Mind Home Tuition to find out how he’s helping parents navigate the saturated tutoring market to match their children with tutors who actually fit their learning needs—not just those with the best ads.

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Breakfast Bites: Commuters who don't use headphones - yay or nay?

Tue, 20 May 2025 00:54:12 +0000

There are two Gen Z public transport trends that are gaining traction in the UK.

Trend #1: train and bus-goers going on a complete digital detox (no phones, tablets, e-books etc)

Trend #2: commuters using their devices without headphones

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey delve into them on this edition of Breakfast Bites!

Presented by: Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by: Emaad Akhtar

Edited by: Trisha Yeong

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Should investors worry about Moody's US credit rating downgrade

Mon, 19 May 2025 02:38:40 +0000

Phan Vee Leung, CIO, Trackrecord Asia puts into context the significance of Moody's cutting the credit rating of the US from Aaa to Aa1. He also shares whether he agrees with investor Michael Burry's bearish view on Nvidia and Chinese stocks.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Bites: China fun facts - From Shanghai's marriage market to sticky rice at the Great Wall!

Mon, 19 May 2025 00:30:40 +0000

Audrey is back from her holiday to China, and she takes us on a whirlwind tour of two of its most iconic cities: Beijing and Shanghai.

Part of the highlight reel: a bustling matchmaking marketplace in the heart of Shanghai, and an interesting ingredient used to bind bricks at the iconic Great Wall of China.

Presented by: Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced and Edited by: Audrey Siek

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Why Tencent is on track to deliver a solid year of growth

Mon, 19 May 2025 00:27:18 +0000

With a guiding principle to use technology for good, it's no surprise that China’s Tencent has come to be one of the biggest technological companies in the world, connecting more than one billion individuals under one singular superapp. And that’s paying off.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they unpack the WeChat maker’s latest financial report card, and find out why it’s fuelling strong confidence among investors, especially in a year swamped with news of uncertainty.

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Bigger Pic: Why high yield bonds are good surrogate for equities

Fri, 16 May 2025 06:06:47 +0000

Will Smith, Director of US High Yield Credit, AllianceBernstein shares why high-yield bonds are a good alternative to stocks and what markets are pricing in as investors brace for the impact of tariffs triggering a wider economic slowdown.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wraps: Pockets still struggling amid market reprieve

Fri, 16 May 2025 05:32:04 +0000

Sonu Varghese, Vice President & Global Macro Strategist, Carson Group discusses how there are still pockets of the market that are still struggling in the space of transport, small caps, and homebuilders - despite recent headlines of easing trade tensions providing relief to markets.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

Image: Pixabay

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Breakfast Quiz: Attention travellers - how well do you know your airports?

Fri, 16 May 2025 02:22:04 +0000

Are you a traveller? How well do you know your airports?

Join Emaad and Ryan on this edition of the Breakfast Quiz and see how you fare!

Presented by: Emaad Akhtar & Ryan Huang

Produced and Edited by: Emaad Akhtar

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: What Schools and Parents can’t teach—but the market might

Fri, 16 May 2025 01:28:36 +0000

College. Career. Status. Many young people may feel forced into a life script they never wrote. But what if success isn’t about checking the boxes—but creating your own?

Matthew Zachary Liu, Founder, Maverick Movement joins the Breakfast Show to discuss Maverick Blueprint—a method that equips young people to define success on their own terms, find their voice, and stop living life on autopilot.

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Companies To Watch: SingPost’s earnings report card review

Thu, 15 May 2025 23:37:57 +0000

Having operated since 1858, SingPost has grown to become a leading postal and eCommerce logistics provider in Asia Pacific. But how did they fare in the recent financial report?

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they dissect the numbers behind SingPost’s latest earnings report card and what the future holds for them amid the ongoing trade tensions, with US tariffs and retaliatory measures by key trading partners.

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US Markets Wrap: Investing amid "socially acceptable volatility"

Thu, 15 May 2025 05:43:31 +0000

Steve Sosnick, Chief Strategist, Interactive Brokers discusses how investors should manage what he describes as Socially Acceptable Volatility in the markets. He also explains why they should pay closer attention at instruments like options as a way to both protect themselves and find opportunities in the current environment.

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Bigger Pic: Competitive advantages that shield companies during trade wars

Thu, 15 May 2025 05:30:23 +0000

Adam Wong, Editor in Chief, Fifthperson discusses how some companies are better positioned to weather the business uncertainty and volatile tariff environment, and may even outperform their counterparts during times of trade disputes. He shares what these traits are and where to find them.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Bites: Is your job preparing you to become a leader?

Thu, 15 May 2025 01:29:47 +0000

Are you happy with your job? Would you like to take on more responsibilities? Perhaps even target a leadership position?

These are all good questions to ask yourself from time to time.

Emaad and Ryan talk about what employees can do - according to the experts - to show more initiative towards building leadership capabilities.

Presented by: Emaad Akhtar & Ryan Huang

Produced and Edited by: Emaad Akhtar

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Is this the end of Nissan motor?

Wed, 14 May 2025 23:27:08 +0000

For a company that’s been manufacturing vehicles for over a century, one would imagine Nissan to stand strong amidst the stiff competition within the automobile space. But based on their latest earnings report, things don’t seem to look too good for the GT-R maker.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang investigate Nissan’s next step of approach to save its ailing business and find out who might be a potential candidate for a merger, after the recent Honda deal fell through.

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Morning Shot: Are DEI practices surviving or thriving in Singapore's company culture?

Wed, 14 May 2025 06:19:22 +0000

In recent times, major corporations the world over have taken a back seat with respect to implementing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) practices in company culture.

Meta, Amazon, McDonald's and Boeing are among the names that have scaled back on DEI initiatives for various reasons.

How are Singapore companies, both big and small, faring on diversity hiring?

Ang Yuit, President, Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (ASME) and Lee Boon Huat, Chief Growth Officer, Asia Pacific, Visier, share their insights.

Produced & Presented by: Emaad Akhtar

Edited by: Trisha Yeong

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: More bilateral trade deals to revive global growth?

Wed, 14 May 2025 03:53:55 +0000

The compromise between the US and China which will see tariffs being slashed are another sign of global trade tensions easing. It follows a trade deal done between the UK and India. Are we moving more towards deal making and less tariff tensions? Radhika Rao, Senior Economist, DBS Group Research discusses if the worst is over for the global economy.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Consumer, Tech lead gains in latest rally

Wed, 14 May 2025 03:51:18 +0000

Frank Cappelleri, Founder and President, CappThesis shares why he is keeping a close eye on stocks such as Coinbase, Mondelez International, AT&T, The Williams Companies and Krogers.

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Breakfast Bites: Apps that can come in handy on your next adventure

Wed, 14 May 2025 03:33:16 +0000

Your tickets have been booked. You've got your physical packing list checked: clothes, toiletries, shoes, gadgets and any other material necessities.

But, given how much time we spend on our smartphones, how about cobbling a digital packing list together?

Emaad and Ryan dive into some apps experts say you could find useful for navigation, entertainment, safety and other purposes on your next overseas adventure.

Presented by: Emaad Akhtar & Ryan Huang

Produced and Edited by: Emaad Akhtar

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Build Your App. No Code Required.

Wed, 14 May 2025 02:04:39 +0000

Think building an app means you need to be a coding wizard locked in a dark room surrounded by energy drinks and error messages? Think again.

Steven Chu, the Chief Operating Officer at OrangeKloud joins the Breakfast Show to discuss how his company is removing the waiting months for a simple tool and turning ideas into apps in a fraction of the time.

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Companies To Watch: Samsung’s slim bet for a fat gain

Wed, 14 May 2025 00:43:45 +0000

The days of bulky phones might soon be over! In a shift towards sleek and ultra-thin design, Samsung recently unveiled their latest offering, the Galaxy S25 Edge smartphone, which will come to be known as one of the thinnest in the industry!

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they unpack the latest specifications behind Samsung’s smartest handset and if that’s enough to reinvigorate investor optimism back to its business, which has been hard hit by declines in the chip division.

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US Markets Wrap: US-China tariff cuts drive global stock market rally

Tue, 13 May 2025 12:59:58 +0000

Ryan Detrick, Chief Market Strategist, Carson Group discusses the impact of larger-than-expected US-China tariff cuts on markets and future interest rate decisions by the Fed. He also highlighted companies / sectors that spearheaded a positive earnings season.

Produced/Presented: Emaad Akhtar

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Companies To Watch: Will Apple’s next big bet on smart glasses pay off?

Tue, 13 May 2025 01:20:16 +0000

Forget smartphones, smart glasses might be the next big thing that will keep us glued to our screens. From entertainment, to useful guides that might make navigating around a lot easier, it sounds like we might be in for a technological treat, especially when it's coming from Apple!

Join Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they venture into the world of augmented reality and discuss if the iconic maker has what it takes to compete against the likes of Meta’s Ray Bans AI glasses, leading the charge in this new technological age.

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Mind Your Business: Your guide to a meaningful and successful finance transformation

Tue, 13 May 2025 01:19:40 +0000

Finance leaders today are faced with an increasing pressure to do more with less—faster, smarter, and with fewer errors. On top of that, the struggle to cope with transformation fatigue in the early stages of change or deep into a digital journey can also stand in the way of driving results that matter.

Jeremy Ung , Chief Technical Officer, BlackLine joins the Breakfast Show to discuss the blueprint businesses can employ to modernize their finance operations and make transformation not just a buzzword.

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Bigger pic: Is the worst over for markets? Are investors set for a mega rally?

Tue, 13 May 2025 01:18:06 +0000

In possibly one of, if not the best positive surprise of this year, trade negotiators from the world’s biggest economies announced a massive de-escalation in tariffs for 90 days. That’s enough to reinvigorate optimism in the markets with some market strategists revealing that future episodes of weakness should be used as buying opportunities.

Dan Koh invites Vasu Menon, Managing Director, Investment Strategy, OCBC Bank to find out if the worst is over for markets and how investors should be positioning their portfolios at this crucial moment in time.

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Bigger Pic: OCBC keeps 2025 outlook despite uncertainties and drop in Q1 profit

Fri, 09 May 2025 02:56:11 +0000

Yeap Junrong, Market Strategist, IG assesses how OCBC's Q1 5% decline in earnings stacks up against the other local banks. This comes as OCBC chief executive Helen Wong flagged heightened uncertainties but said the bank continued to see deposit inflows and loan growth, while portfolio quality remained sound.

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US Markets Wrap: US-UK trade deal impact

Fri, 09 May 2025 02:45:44 +0000

Laila Pence, President & Co-Founder, Pence Wealth Management discusses how the new US-UK trade deal will impact markets and the economy. She also shares why she likes sectors such as defence, big tech and AI and weight loss drugs.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Quiz: How good is your knowledge of Europe?

Fri, 09 May 2025 00:20:15 +0000

In celebration of Europe Day (May 9th), the Breakfast Crew has prepared a quiz that tests your knowledge of this wonderful continent, with questions relating to language, politics, history and even flags!

Play along and try your luck!

Presented by: Emaad Akhtar & Ryan Huang

Produced and Edited by: Emaad Akhtar

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Toyota forecasts staggering profit decline

Fri, 09 May 2025 00:15:38 +0000

Following a string of automotive companies warning substantial impacts to their bottom lines as a result of Trump’s tariffs, it looks like Toyota has joined the bandwagon. From a lukewarm finish to their recent fiscal year to a disappointing forecast, what does this year mean for the iconic carmaker?

Find out with Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they unpack the full details on Trump’s tariffs impact on Toyota, and how the company is set to position itself amid this period of volatility.

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Bigger Pic: US Fed interest rate trajectory and DBS earnings review

Thu, 08 May 2025 02:13:37 +0000

Citing rising risks of higher unemployment and higher inflation and the wave of uncertainty unleashed by US President Donald Trump’s trade policy, the US Federal Reserve announced that they will be keeping interest rates unchanged at 4.25% to 4.5%. How should investors be reading this move and what does it suggest about the trajectory of the policy rate path for the rest of this year?

Closer to home, DBS just released its latest set of earnings reports, revealing a fall in net profit for its first quarter. What were the main growth drivers and weaknesses from Q1? Find out with Dan Koh as he speaks to Isaac Lim, Chief Market Strategist at Moomoo Singapore as they break down these stories and more.

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Mind Your Business: Embed intelligence deep into your business core with ClayboxAI

Thu, 08 May 2025 01:30:09 +0000

AI isn’t just a tech tool — it’s a new language of strategy, culture, and innovation. But are business leaders ready to speak it? Parry Singh, Founder & Chief AI Whisperer, ClayboxAI joins the Breakfast Show to discuss his mission to help executives not only understand AI, but embed it deeply into the fabric of their organizations.

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Companies To Watch: CEO Lisa Su is bullish on AMD. Should you be?

Thu, 08 May 2025 00:19:00 +0000

In the face of chip giants like Nvidia and Intel, AMD does not waver. In fact, it stands out as a viable alternative, offering powerful and cost-effective solutions that pushes the boundaries of performance and efficiency. And their technological prowess shows in the latest earnings report card.

Join Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they dissect the key factors driving strong growth in the semiconductor player and find out how they are navigating in the increasingly complex and competitive space

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Breakfast Bites: What does your morning routine look like?

Wed, 07 May 2025 06:18:00 +0000

What do you do when you wake up? While there is no hard and fast rule about the healthiest way to start one's morning, sleep and circadian rhythm experts do agree on a few ways that can't hurt.

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey reveal more!

Presented by: Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced and Edited by: Emaad Akhtar

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: How will intra-ASEAN dynamics change amidst global trade tensions?

Wed, 07 May 2025 03:36:48 +0000

Aris Dacanay, HSBC Asean Economist discusses how with all the talk around US tariffs, which economy in ASEAN faces the largest headwinds and how they can respond.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Lack of trade deals, Fed angst, drive investors to safety

Wed, 07 May 2025 03:11:50 +0000

José Torres, Senior Economist at Interactive Brokers, discusses how investors are embracing defensive positions as stocks are continue to lose ground this week as several firms signal profitability concerns in light of tariff pressures.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Digitize your wardrobe with PAKT

Wed, 07 May 2025 01:25:26 +0000

Imagine having a personal wardrobe butler—someone who stores your clothes in pristine condition, catalogs each item digitally, and lets you browse your closet from your phone. Need a dress delivered for dinner or want to resell that designer piece you’ve only worn once? Done.

Barbara Yu Larsson, Founder and CEO of PAKT joins the Breakfast Show to share how she’s helping people extend the life of their garments, reduce waste, and reconnect with the value of their wardrobe through smarter and more conscious living.

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Companies To Watch: Skechers makes history with latest sneaker deal

Wed, 07 May 2025 00:03:32 +0000

In one of the market’s biggest surprise moves and the second-largest fashion deal ever, Skechers has agreed to be taken private by 3G Capital for US$9.42 billion in the footwear industry’s biggest buyout to date.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang investigate the motivation behind this latest buyout and what going private would mean for the third largest footwear brand in the world.

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Breakfast Bites: How do you talk to your children about money?

Tue, 06 May 2025 04:25:40 +0000

Having an educational conversation with your kids can be a difficult task at the best of times.

Which makes talking to them about money at a time where uncertainty is the only constant (be it in the stock markets, or in relation to tariffs, inflation and a possible recession) a challenge to say the least.

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey discuss experts' suggestions on how parents can broach this sensitive topic with their offspring without making them feel anxious.

Presented by: Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced and Edited by: Emaad Akhtar

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Business conditions in Singapore improve further in April

Tue, 06 May 2025 03:46:33 +0000

Jingyi Pan, Economics Associate Director, S&P Global Market Intelligence PMI Team discusses the latest readings signaling that business conditions continued to improve and at the fastest pace since last November. The headline seasonally adjusted S&P Global Singapore Purchasing Manager’s Index - a composite single figure indicator of performance – rose to 52.8 in April, up from 52.7 in March. Posting above the 50.0 no-change mark for a third successive month.

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US Markets Wrap: Why markets are now in the eye of the hurricane

Tue, 06 May 2025 03:42:15 +0000

Dave Sekera, Chief US Market Strategist, Morningstar Research Services discusses how to position amid the tariff environment, as well as why investors should ignore data points like GDP releases. He shares some of his winners in the current earnings season including Microsoft and Meta, plus other stock picks.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Rebooting the Future & Reinventing Business with Damien Kopp

Tue, 06 May 2025 01:41:04 +0000

Forget business-as-usual. Companies today are being forced to rethink everything from how they work, how they grow, and how they stay relevant in a world moving at the speed of AI. Damien Kopp, Managing Director, RebootUp & Founder, KoncentriK joins the Breakfast Show to discuss the intersection of technology, innovation, and organizational resilience, and how his firm is helping companies not just adapt—but lead—through complexity and rapid change.

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Companies To Watch: Does Greg Abel have what it takes to succeed Warren Buffett?

Tue, 06 May 2025 00:22:15 +0000

“Be Fearful When Others Are Greedy, and Greedy When Others Are Fearful”. “If You Don’t Find a Way to Make Money While You Sleep, You Will Work Until You Die.” These are some of the iconic pearls of wisdom shared by the legendary Warren Buffett in his various Berkshire Hathaway letters. After all, when the world’s biggest investor says something, it is advisable that investors across the board take notes. And today, if there’s one thing everyone’s going to remember, it’s the day the 94 year old who built his Berkshire Hathaway empire into a business valued at more than $1.16 trillion for the past 6 decades announces his retirement.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they marvel at Buffett’s investing achievements over the years and find out if Greg Abel has what it takes to fill the shoes of arguably one of, if not the best investor of all time.

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Bigger Pic: Earnings this week to shed more light on consumer strength

Mon, 05 May 2025 03:21:21 +0000

Kelvin Wong, Senior Market Analyst, OANDA previews the top earnings due this week and what to watch out from the likes of DBS, UOB, OCBC and Walt Disney.

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GE2025: From 'Taskforce Man' to 'Look Left Look Right'; let's look behind the scenes of The Straits Times coverage

Mon, 05 May 2025 02:42:44 +0000

As the dust settles from GE2025, we are taking a look back at the viral moments, memes, and trends that shaped election coverage, with a focus on a younger, digitally-savvy crowd.

From "Taskforce Man" to "Look Left Look Right" remixes, we gain a behind-the-scenes look into the Straits Times' 'Young and Political' initiative, and how the past two weeks played out in the media space.

Audrey chats with Danson Cheong, Assistant News Editor at The Straits Times.

Produced & Presented by: Audrey Siek

Edited by: Trisha Yeong

Photo credits: The Straits Times

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Companies To Watch: What Mastercard’s results suggest about the health of consumers?

Mon, 05 May 2025 00:20:07 +0000

As one of the biggest technology companies within the global payments industry, it’s no surprise how reliant we are on Mastercard. In fact, it’s almost safe to say that we’ve all experienced using their branded electronic payment cards to make purchases both online and at brick and mortar stores. And it shows in their latest financial report card.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang unpack the latest figures of Mastercard’s Q1 financial results and analyse the plans they have in mind to keep consumers spending and their profits growing.

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Breakfast Bites: You probably don't look at the label when you take Panadol. Are you taking it right?

Sun, 04 May 2025 22:54:45 +0000

Let’s talk about something you definitely have sitting at home right now — that little stash of painkillers in your medicine cabinet. The over-the-counter meds like Panadol, Acetomenophin… maybe some Ibuprofen.

When used correctly, these meds are safe and effective and very helpful when we’re not well. But how many of us actually follow the instructions perfectly? Studies show a lot of us don’t.

Audrey and Ryan chat about their habits and what you should do!

Presented by: Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced and Edited by: Audrey Siek

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Tech earnings lift market sentiment

Fri, 02 May 2025 03:54:01 +0000

Brenda Vingiello, Chief Investment Officer, Sand Hill Global Advisors breaks down the takeaways from the latest earnings from Apple, Amazon, Airbnb, and Reddit. Key issues include the projected impact of tariffs on their outlook, as well as how ad spending is holding up amid concerns over consumer spending sentiment.

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Bigger Pic: What the Asian consumption downgrade trend means for startups

Fri, 02 May 2025 03:20:40 +0000

Consumers are cutting back - not a big surprise - considering the uncertainty surrounding U.S. tariffs, that will in turn weigh on business sentiment and the economic projections for 2025 may lead to cautious investor backdrop in Asia. Carolyn Dawson, CEO of Founders Forum Group discusses how this affects the startup ecosystem.

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Mind Your Business: Transforming hair into diamond

Fri, 02 May 2025 00:47:25 +0000

What comes to mind when you think of holding on to a part of someone you love? Photograph? Or maybe a piece of jewelry? But what if your next piece of diamond is made of something or someone you love?

On this episode of Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show speaks to Andrew Lim, Founder, Together Diamonds, to discuss how he’s transforming hair and fur into custom lab-grown diamonds, and his passion in building a business around legacy, memory, and love.

For more information visit: www.togetherdiamonds.co

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Companies To Watch: What’s driving the greens on Grab Holdings

Thu, 01 May 2025 23:28:01 +0000

From ride-hailing, food delivery, and digital payment solutions, Grab Holdings has grown to become one of the biggest behemoths within the superapp landscape. And it looks like their growth isn’t slowing down!

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they cruise through Singapore’s iconic green app’s latest financial report card if the ride-hailing giant is able to continue their growth momentum for this year and beyond.

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Breakfast Quiz: 2-hour lunches & 4-day work weeks ARE real! Celebrate Labour Day with this test.

Thu, 01 May 2025 22:54:25 +0000

We hope you enjoyed the May Day public holiday; an annual holiday marked around the world recognising the international working class.

Let’s celebrate May 1st with fun and surprising questions about workers, weird labour laws, and office life around the world! Play along and let us know how you did!

Presented by: Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced and Edited by: Audrey Siek

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Why invest in China despite China facing highest tariffs

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 05:43:48 +0000

Abhilash Narayan, Investment strategist, HSBC Private Banking, discusses why he is overweight on Chinese stocks despite China being subject to the highest US tariffs. He also shares his view on whether US equities are still attractive with US consumer readings hitting multi-year lows.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Market tailwinds from "done" trade deals

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 05:39:46 +0000

Joseph Sroka, Chief Investment Officer & Co-Founder, NovaPoint Capital discusses whether markets are now at an inflection point with signs of the Trump administration dialing back on tariffs and gravitating towards deal-making. He shares why he sees further upside for the S&P 500 by the end of the year.

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Breakfast Bites: Do you "forget" to respond to texts? Is that actually OK?

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 00:59:17 +0000

How many groupchats are you a part of? Family chats, work chats, friend groups… it can get overwhelming real fast.

In a recent digital study, it was found that 90% of text messages are read within 3 minutes of being received — but only about 50% are responded to immediately.

So today on Breakfast Bites, we’re talking about texting etiquette, and how to juggle all those text threads without losing your mind.

Presented by: Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced and Edited by: Audrey Siek

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Simplify the process of owning a car with Motorist

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 00:53:15 +0000

Beyond traffic jams and the exuberant prices of vehicles in Singapore, the paperwork, policies and administrative burden from owning a car in Singapore are stressors faced by many who live here. But that doesn’t have to be the case - at least not with local platform Motorist around!

In this episode of Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show is joined by Angela Poh, Deputy CEO, Motorist to discuss how this ingenious platform is transforming the way Singaporeans manage car ownership — simplifying everything from COE renewals to selling your car, and even making it more inclusive for drivers of all backgrounds.

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Companies To Watch: Why analysts are still bullish on HSBC

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 23:15:36 +0000

Effects of Trump’s global trade war is trickling down on every corner of the market and it shows on HSBC’s forecast during the announcement of their earnings results.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they unpack the latest report card of one of the world’s largest banking and financial services organizations, and find out why there might be something to cheer for despite this uncertain economy.

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Bigger Pic: MAS warns of pressure on economy, wages from US tariffs

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 09:09:49 +0000

Brian Lee, Economist, Maybank Securities discusses how much of a slowdown in the economy to expect as the Monetary Authority of Singapore's quarterly macroeconomic review flags a warning over that the raft of tariffs announced by US President Donald Trump and the uncertainty over the extent of damage they will cause across the global economy. He shares why we should not rule out a technical recession, and how likely a full blown one is this year.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: Previewing "Magnificent Earnings"

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 03:34:35 +0000

Chartered Market Technician Jay Woods, Chief Global Strategist, Freedom Capital Markets previews the "magnificent earnings" out this week including those from Meta Platforms (META), Microsoft (MSFT), Apple (AAPL) and Amazon (AMZN). He discusses what investors will be looking out for in the space of AI, tariffs, and the global economy as the stocks hope to build off their recent price momentum.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: How Zenyum went from a dental startup to a leading brand for clear aligners and smile cosmetics

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 00:50:00 +0000

Many of us who have worn braces before, or know of someone who had, would probably remember the traditional metal brackets and wires that stretch across your teeth, sometimes even unintentionally cutting your gums. But with the option of clear aligners today, it's no wonder that we’re seeing an increase in the number of people opening up to teeth correction solutions more than ever!

Join the Breakfast Show as they invite Julian Artopé, Founder and CEO of Zenyum to discuss how their latest aligner solution, ZenyumClearTM Pro is designed to give consumers the best possible smile and treatment outcomes, and what the future cosmetic dentistry looks like.

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Breakfast Bites: R U a text abbreviator? Turns out people don’t like it.

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 00:46:50 +0000

Hands up if you’re guilty of this: when you text someone, do you send a “thx” instead of “thanks”, or maybe just a lone, cold “K"?

You’re not alone - but if you find yourself doing this often: here’s something you should know. A series of studies looked into how people feel when they receive these kinds of clipped, abbreviated messages. And it turns out… people don’t love it.

Audrey and Ryan chat about their texting habits, and when it’s OK to abbreviate those texts.

Presented by: Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced and Edited by: Audrey Siek

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Is Huawei set to dethrone Nvidia in chipmaking?

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 23:51:41 +0000

For years now, mega Chinese tech firms' advances in building top-end chips that could rival with Nvidia and technological developments has been largely stymied by Washington's relentless cut off attempts. But that might be changing in the foreseeable future. Just recently, China’s Huawei Technologies announced it is preparing to test its newest and most powerful artificial intelligence processor - which the company believes might be more powerful than Nvidia's H100.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they take a deep dive into Huawei's latest iteration of its Ascend AI processors and how it is expected to shake dynamics within the semiconductor landscape.

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Bigger Pic: Trade deals & tech earnings

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 07:38:08 +0000

Kyle Rodda, Senior Financial Market Analyst at capital.com, discusses what investors should look out for this week. As Washington works on trade deals, markets are enjoying a reprieve and could get a further boost with the next wave of earnings that include numbers from Meta, Amazon, Apple and etc.

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Mind Your Business: How Geneco is leading the energy charge in Singapore

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 01:12:42 +0000

As Singapore works toward its 2030 green plan, Geneco has emerged as a key player in helping households reduce their carbon footprint. As they mark their 7th anniversary this year, Lim Han Kwang, CEO, Geneco joins the Breakfast Show to discuss their contribution to Singapore's energy goals and what lies ahead for them.

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Morning Shot: Could Singapore’s manufacturing sector benefit from US tariffs?

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 00:45:12 +0000

Singapore’s manufacturing sector has found itself in a unique—and uncertain—spot.

After the Trump administration rolled out a fresh wave of tariffs, some manufacturers here are seeing a surge in interest from American clients looking to shift away from China and Vietnam,

Does this give us an advantage, or is the uncertainty too difficult to plan for?

Lennon Tan, President of the Singapore Manufacturing Federation, joins us.

Produced & Presented by: Audrey Siek

Edited by: Chua Meng Choon

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Bites: Be part of the global movement and "Pay it Forward"!

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 00:39:01 +0000

Today is Global Pay It Forward Day - a special day celebrated in over 85 countries around the world, including right here in Singapore!

The whole idea is to remind us how powerful small, thoughtful acts of kindness can be — and how one good deed often sparks another.

Audrey and Ryan share ideas of how you can be part of the movement today.

Presented by: Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced and Edited by: Audrey Siek

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Stocks to watch: Intel, Pfizer, Exxon

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 14:05:13 +0000

David Dietze, chief investment strategist at Dietze Wealth Management Group discusses any significant dips in the market should be bought. He also shares the rationale behind some of his current stock picks including Intel, Pfizer, Exxon. He also any significant dip should be bought.

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Bigger Pic: Why sustainable equity investors should pay close attention to Singapore

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 04:12:00 +0000

We explore one of the most dynamic and important shifts in global finance — investing in the green economy. With Asia playing a key role in the global green economy and Singapore acting as the region’s technology innovation and capital markets hub, Singapore’s equity market could be worth a closer look from sustainable equity investors.

Sharing their insights are Lee Clements, Head of Applied Sustainable Investment Research, London Stock Exchange Group as well as Geoff Howie, Market Strategist, Singapore Exchange.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Shape the future of your business with AI and Automation

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 00:53:47 +0000

From the explosion of generative models to new ways of automating workflows, AI is reshaping industries across the board. But with all these advancements, how do businesses keep up? And more importantly, how do they integrate AI into their day-to-day operations to truly unlock its potential?

John Deeb, Field CTO for Workato APAC joins the Breakfast Show to discuss the challenges businesses face in adopting these new technologies, and how automation is becoming the key to success and growth.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced and edited by Audrey Siek

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Breakfast Quiz: April was a packed month! How well do you know the headlines?

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 00:33:30 +0000

As usual, at the last Friday of the month, The Breakfast Show reviews the biggest news headlines of the last few weeks, and what has happened in Singapore and around the world.

Play along with Ryan, as Audrey quizzes him on April's highlights. Let’s see how much you know about these headlines... we'll give you a clue - we’re really heavy on our top story (GE!).

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced and edited by Audrey Siek

Photo & Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: GenAI, Disinformation & the Battle for Voter Trust in GE2025

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 02:13:04 +0000

As Singapore gears up for its first General Election under Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, the stakes are higher than ever—not just politically, but digitally. With the rise of generative AI and deepfakes, the manipulation of political narratives has become easier, faster, and disturbingly more believable.

Jennifer Cheng, Director of Cybersecurity Strategy for APJ at Proofpoint, joins the Breakfast Show to discuss how AI is transforming the disinformation landscape, what it means for Singapore’s democratic process, and how individuals and institutions can guard against this new wave of digital deception.

Presented by: Audrey Siek
Produced by: Dan Koh
Edited by: Chua Meng Choon

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Breakfast Bites: Do you swear by your phone case, or are you part of the "Bare Phone Brigade"?

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 00:46:43 +0000

Show of hands: do you have a phone case? And how much did you fork out for it? Twenty bucks? Fifty?

Well, there’s actually been a bit of a phone fashion movement lately. A new wave of minimalists — called the “Bare Phone Brigade” — walking around with their phones completely naked. No case. No screen protector. These folks are living on the edge.

So, do we still need them? Or are phone cases just… old news?

Presented by: Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced and Edited by: Audrey Siek

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: Is this a time to buy what others are forced to sell? And where are the opportunities amid a potential recession?

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 00:44:00 +0000

Jason Britton, Founder and CIO at Reflection Asset Management shares his insights on whether it's a good time to get excited about getting back into markets, latest sentiments surrounding earnings season, where would investors find the more defensive names, and how much of a concern a potential recession is to companies and investors.

Presented by: Ryan Huang
Produced by: Yeo Kai Ting (ykaiting@sph.com.sg)
Photo credits: pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Have Chinese markets bottomed out?

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 04:50:34 +0000

Francis Tan, Chief Strategist, Asia, Indosuez Wealth Management discusses how he is approaching investing in Chinese markets, in view of signals from the White House's willingness around de-escalate its trade war with China. He also looks at what various indicators are pointing towards, following the IMF's cut to its 2025 growth forecast for the country.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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US Markets Wrap: 2-steps forward, one-step back into May

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 04:18:17 +0000

Mark Newton, CMT, Managing Director & Global Head of Technical Strategy, Fundstrat Global Advisors discusses why despite the ongoing volatility, last week’s volume and price action suggests a good likelihood of a short-term low in place for US stocks, which might now be followed by a push higher in a “2-steps forward, one-step back” type process into May.

Produced: Yeo Kaiting

Presented: Ryan Huang

Image by freepik

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Mind Your Business: How Pigeon Singapore is designing parenthood, one bottle at a time

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 01:20:16 +0000

Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all feeding. After all, feeding your baby isn’t just about milk—it’s about comfort, bonding, and building confidence.

Masataka Hongo, Managing Director of Pigeon Singapore joins the Breakfast Show to discuss how their thoughtful innovations, including the customizable SofTouch™ Bottle, are making life smoother and sweeter for new parents everywhere.

Presented by: Audrey Siek

Produced by: Dan Koh

Edited by: Chua Meng Choon

Photo credits: Pigeon Singapore

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Breakfast Special: It's Nomination Day for GE2025! How will candidates be hitting the ground running?

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 01:12:20 +0000

It’s Nomination Day — a key milestone in the lead-up to Polling Day on May 3rd, and we’re keeping a close eye on how the final pieces of the election puzzle are falling into place.

We’ve seen some early signals of the lineups - though some parties like the Workers’ Party have kept their cards close; raising speculation about where the key heavyweights are going to go, and the possible contests and key constituencies to watch.

Dr Chong Ja Ian, Associate Professor from the Department of Political Science at National University of Singapore, helps us make sense of what surprises we can expect today, and what lies ahead in the campaign trail.

Produced and Presented by: Audrey Siek

Edited by: Chua Meng Choon

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Bites: Tiktok turns to a "Dinosaur Time" trend for those veggie haters!

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:44:06 +0000

Have you ever struggled to get your kids to eat their vegetables? Or, better yet - YOU find it hard to hit your daily dose of greens.

Well, TikTok might have just come to the rescue with a new trend making waves, and it’s called “Dinosaur Time". It's a somewhat silly way to get the kids on the veggie bandwagon. Would you try it?

Presented by: Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced and Edited by: Audrey Siek

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Markets rattled by Trump threats to fire Fed Chair Powell

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 03:37:21 +0000

Vasu Menon, Managing Director, Investment Strategy, OCBC Bank discusses why US President Donald Trump is threatening to fire the Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell, and if there is a valid argument behind Trump's call for lower rates "immediately".

Presented/Produced: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: Vin’s Automotive shakes off market uncertainties to debut as SGX’s first IPO of 2025

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 02:58:29 +0000

Since its founding in 1987, Vin’s Automotive has evolved from a humble workshop into a dynamic mobility group — known for its leadership in parallel car imports and growing footprint in leasing, financing, and aftersales.

We explore the company’s embrace of AI and its bold move to go public with a Catalist listing— the first on the SGX this year - with Galvin Khong, CEO, Vin’s Holdings, who took over the business from his father. He also talks about the lessons and values picked up from his early work experience in Japan that be now applies to the family business.

Presented by: Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Edited by: Chua Meng Choon

Picture credits: Vin's Automotive

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Breakfast Bites: The Airport Theory - How close are you willing to cut it?

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 00:41:13 +0000

When it comes to heading to the airport to catch a flight, there are two types of travelers out there: The “three hours before, grab a coffee and people-watch” types… or the “I’m gonna risk it and cut it close” type.

There’s a new trend making waves on TikTok right now called Airport Theory, this wild idea where people show up at the airport as little as 15 minutes before their flight boards. Yup — No checked bags, boarding pass ready, and it’s basically a race against time through security to your gate. Fashionably late… or dangerously close to missing your flight?

Audrey and Ryan chat about this theory, and how late – or brave – you’re willing to get!

Presented by Audrey Siek and Ryan Huang

Produced & Edited by: Audrey Siek

Photo credits: The Straits Times

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US Markets Wrap: A new chip in the wall - Are we heading into a tech turmoil as Trump's trade war thickens?

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 23:46:24 +0000

Michele Schneider, Chief Strategist at MarketGauge Group shares her insights surrounding tech stocks being under pressure of late, how the tit for tat trade war is playing out, whether the Fed will be inclined to lower rates, as well as where the current optimism lies. She also weighs in on how investors can diversify their portfolio right now.

Presented by: Ryan Huang
Produced by: Yeo Kai Ting (ykaiting@sph.com.sg)
Photo credits: bluebay via Shutterstock.com

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Bigger Pic: Look ahead to the week - Tesla, Alphabet earnings

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 08:21:33 +0000

Yeap Junrong, Market Strategist, IG discusses what to look out for in the US earnings releases this week including from Tesla and Alphabet, as well as how much pessimism from the tariff tensions will be reflected in the latest round of global PMIs.

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Mind Your Business: Here’s a beer that can support your gut health

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 01:45:28 +0000

Beer that’s actually good for your gut? Sounds like a dream — but it’s real, and it’s brewed right here in Singapore.

The Breakfast Show cracks open the story behind Probicient, the startup that created the world’s first probiotic beer — a refreshing craft brew packed with billions of live probiotics, designed to taste great and support your digestion with Dr Chen Dai, Chief Technology Officer, Probicient and Associate Professor Benjamin Tee, Vice President (Ecosystem Building), NUS Enterprise. They also discuss the role NUS Enterprise plays in nurturing, supporting, and scaling local innovations like this to make waves both locally and globally.

Presented by: Ryan Huang

Edited by: Chua Meng Choon

Picture credits: Probicient

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Breakfast Special: GE2025 - The power of social media in this "phy-gital" election

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 01:02:42 +0000

Campaigning is already in full swing for GE2025! Polling Day is set for May 3rd, and as much as this election will play out on the ground, it’s also happening, in a big way, online.

We’re looking at what’s being called a “phy-gital” election — where physical and digital campaigning are coming together like never before. But with this comes both opportunities and risks.

Joel Lim, Host of “The Political Prude” podcast, talks about the changing social media landscape, the online strategies of our political parties, and what trends to look out for this year.

Produced & Presented by: Audrey Siek

Edited by: Chua Meng Choon

Photo credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Morning Shot: Is China turning to Southeast Asia as tensions rise with US?

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 00:41:06 +0000

Chinese President Xi Jinping has wrapped his high-stakes tour of Southeast Asia.

From Vietnam to Malaysia and Cambodia, President Xi urged regional economies to stand together, after US President Donald Trump ramped up its tariffs against most countries - with its biggest targets on China, who has since hit back with tit-for-tat tariffs.

Professor Lawrence Loh, Director, Centre for Governance and Sustainability, NUS Business School, breaks down what this all means for the Southeast Asian region.

Produced & Presented by: Audrey Siek

Edited by Chua Meng Choon

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Breakfast Bites: Did you know? Some things you use everyday were invented by accident!

Sun, 20 Apr 2025 23:27:04 +0000

Today is World Creativity and Innovation Day! It’s a day to celebrate those brilliant, weird, and sometimes accidental ideas that completely change how we live, work, and play.

Take the microwave oven, for example - or chopsticks. Stuff we use everyday that were invented by some creative soul with an idea, who had luck and happy accidents! Audrey and Ryan explore some of these essential daily items we use that were complete flukes.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced and edited by Audrey Siek

Photo & Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Encouraging more SGX-listed companies to hold hybrid AGMS key to corporate governance & investor interest

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 05:15:24 +0000

Mak Yuen Teen, Professor (Practice) of Accounting & Director at the Centre for Investor Protection, NUS Business School, National University of Singapore discusses why it is regulators should promote hybrid annual general meetings (AGMs) for companies listed on the Singapore Exchange - beyond just physical meetings. He points out this allows for great engagement with shareholders, ultimately fostering better corporate governance and more active investor interest.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Bites: Stressed about your schedule? Try these 4 tips!

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 03:16:32 +0000

Does life feel too busy? Too much to do, too little time to do it in?

If you answered yes to both these questions, this Breakfast Bites edition will be music to your ears.

Emaad and Audrey dive into 4 tips you can experiment with to cut out all that schedule stress!

Have a listen and give them a try!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar & Audrey Siek

Produced and edited by Emaad Akhtar

Photo & music credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: What it really takes to build an investment fund

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 01:28:21 +0000

Ever wondered what it really takes to start your own asset management company? In the episode of Mind Your Business, the Breakfast Show is joined by Joseph Ong, Executive Director & Co-Founder, Euro Asia Asset Management to unpack the real story behind launching a regulated investment firm — from the first bold idea to navigating regulations, finding the right team, and bridging markets across Asia and Europe.

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Breakfast Bites: Have you jumped on a social media trend? Want to know why we do it?

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 01:39:40 +0000

If you are on social media (who isn’t?), you’d see all sorts of trends that people jump on. The viral cookie challenge with their kids, the ice bucket challenge for ALS back in the day, Wes Anderson style videos… it always seems to happen overnight, and before you know it, your feed is flooded.

Why do we do it? What is it about these social media trends that makes us jump in and copy them? Psychologists weigh in, and it’s time to find out why.

Presented by Audrey Siek & Emaad Akhtar

Produced and edited by Audrey Siek

Photo & Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Asset allocation strategies to navigate Trump’s tariffs

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 01:09:09 +0000

US President Trump’s tariffs are sending shockwaves to every part of the global economy and it says a lot on the Ministry of Trade and Industry’s new forecast for Singapore’s 2025 GDP - expected to come in at zero percent to 2 percent. So how should investors be digesting this pessimistic outlook and how should we be positioning our portfolio today?

Find out with Dan Koh as he invites Kelly Chia, Head of Investment Strategy, UOB Private Bank to discuss how to strategically navigate your portfolio in this economic uncertainty and what the future presents for fixed income and the commodities market.

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Mind Your Business: Everything you need to know to counteract deepfakes

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 01:06:45 +0000

The Singpass app is one that we’re all so familiar with - granting seamless access to our CPF statements and even instantaneously filling up official documents with a single tap. But how does that face scan recognise our features, especially in this age of AI where deepfakes remain prevalent in every facet of our lives?

Dominic Forrest, CTO of iProov joins the Breakfast Show to discuss the key to stopping identity fraud in its tracks, protecting businesses against deepfakes, and what it really takes to keep our digital lives secure.

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GE2025: The race begins! Here's what to look out for before you head to the ballot box.

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 00:21:28 +0000

With Polling Day set for 3rd May, the countdown is on for Singapore to vote for 97 Members of Parliament, who will serve the country for the next five years.

We are just a week away from Nomination Day, slated for 23rd April, of which the finalised list of candidates will be confirmed. Then, it's 9 days of whirlwind campaigning, before a cooling off day.

Fielding 30 potential new faces, this election will be the first under the leadership of Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.

On the Breakfast Show, Audrey Siek speaks to Eugene Tan, Associate Professor of Law from the Yong Pung How School of Law at Singapore Management University, to talk about the key issues that are top of mind for Singaporeans, and the reasons behind our shorter campaign periods.

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US Markets Wrap: Are traditional safe havens no longer safe with Trump's tariffs?

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 23:53:12 +0000

Todd Rabold, Investment Management Partner from the Callan Family Office shares his insights on on the topsy-turvy market movements in recent days and whether traditional safe havens like US Treasuries and the dollar are losing their appeal in light of President Trump’s new tariffs. He also weighs in on consumer sentiments and if he foresees a notable pullback or reallocation by investors in the short term.

Presented by: Emaad Akhtar
Produced by: Yeo Kai Ting (ykaiting@sph.com.sg)
Photo credits: pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Are the golden days of LVMH over?

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 23:35:19 +0000

Global trade tensions are roiling companies from almost every corner, and the luxury industry is no exception. This can be seen from LVMH’s latest quarterly report card, which kicked off the industry’s earnings season and suggests a contraction of sales might be in sight.

Join Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they dissect LVMH’s first quarter earnings report and find out what the downbeat demand for luxury goods could mean for the industry going forward.

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Morning Shot: Are student arrests tarnishing the US' image as a champion of democratic values?

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 06:16:18 +0000

To date, the Trump administration has reportedly revoked over 600 international student visas.

The reason? These students have taken political stances on the Israel-Gaza conflict that the government argues is a threat to U.S. national security / foreign policy.

It has resulted in them being arrested, detained (in weeks, for some cases) and deported.

Free speech advocates have cited violations of the First Amendment, and warn that the crackdown could have ramifications for the wider population.

On this episode of Morning Shot, Dr Lincoln Mitchell, Professor from the School of International and Public Affairs at Columbia University shares his insights.

Produced & Presented by: Emaad Akhtar

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Bigger Pic: Is the worst of the market turmoil over?

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 02:30:37 +0000

Thomas Rupf, Co-Head Singapore and CIO Asia, VP Bank discusses why his positioning in the market has moved from overweight to neutral in various assets over the past few months. He also shares his view on investing in gold at current record high prices.

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US Markets Wrap: Should we buy US domestic plays with pricing power?

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 02:23:07 +0000

Christine Short, Vice President of Research, Wall Street Horizon shares her insights on whether the latest market reprieve will last as US President Donald Trump makes exemptions for tariffs on smartphones and other electronics.

Presented by: Ryan Huang
Produced by: Yeo Kai Ting (ykaiting@sph.com.sg)
Photo credits: AP / Brendan Smialowski

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Mind Your Business: Personalize your listening experience with Plexsonic

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 00:57:51 +0000

In a world of one-size-fits-all audio, what if your sound experience could be as unique as your fingerprint? Think: pro-level audio performance, tailored fit, and wireless convenience—all in one sleek package.

Benjamin Soh, Co-founder, Plexsonic and Xavier Chow, Brand Marketeer, Plexsonic joins the Breakfast Show to discuss how they are reimagining what personal audio can be and how they stand out in a crowded tech and lifestyle market.

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Companies To Watch: What US Banks’ earnings results are saying about the economy

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 00:55:19 +0000

Widely regarded as bellwethers of the economy, US banks kicked off 2025’s first quarterly earnings season with a relatively positive start thanks in part to trading and business activities. While that provided a much needed relief from the volatility of recent weeks, one narrative echoing across the board suggests that markets are not completely out of the woods just yet.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang break down the latest financial statements of JPMorgan, Morgan Stanley, and Wells Fargo, and investigate what they are forecasting for the US economy for the rest of this year.

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Breakfast Bites: From ‘Choping’ to our ‘Taxi Uncles': Exploring “unofficial” cultures

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 00:38:27 +0000

Today is the International Day of Culture; and when we think culture, we often picture those big, grand things. But what about the little quirky things that locals do that may not be in the travel brochures? These customs can really tell you what a place is like.

Audrey, Ryan and Emaad discuss “unofficial” cultural habits - which virtually every country or region has. So chope your seats and listen in!

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced and edited by Audrey Siek

Photo credit: Kua Chee Siong via The Straits Times

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Bites: Tips to stay safe if you are caught in an earthquake

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 11:27:39 +0000

The recent deadly 7.7-magnitude earthquake that rocked Myanmar at the end of March is a reminder that our safety should never be taken for granted.

And it can often be challenging to process what we could do to keep ourselves safe in the chaos and panic-stricken seconds following such situations.

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey share some useful tips!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced and edited by Emaad Akhtar

Photo & music credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: S'pore downgrades 2025 growth forecast

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 05:20:27 +0000

Selena Ling, Chief Economist, OCBC Bank discusses if we should expect a recession this year, following Singapore cutting its official growth forecast for this year to a range of 0% to 2%, from 1%-3%.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: What if insurance actually worked for you

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 01:00:53 +0000

Insurtech, the combination of insurance and technology, has been reshaping the way we consider and interact with insurance. One perfect example is the shift away from a one-size-fits-all model to a personalized approach, which is not just redefining the customer experience but also opening new avenues for growth among providers.

Rob Schimek, Founder and Group Chief Executive Officer, bolttech joins the Breakfast Show to discuss how AI is revolutionizing the insurance landscape and the broader trends shaping the industry in 2025.

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Companies To Watch: Will Trump’s tariffs waver TSMC’s supremacy?

Sun, 13 Apr 2025 23:50:03 +0000

Touted as the world’s leader in the production of advanced semiconductors used for AI and smartphones, it’s no surprise that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. has come between the geopolitical crosshairs of the US and China. And while it has been successful in beating earnings, analysts are starting to question the potential impact of Trump' s tariffs on its future performance.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they learn what analysts are saying about the implications of the global trade war on the semiconductor supply chain and the outlook of TSMC’s performance in the foreseeable future.

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Bigger Pic: Markets slump as US hikes China tariffs to 145%

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 07:34:59 +0000

Sean Teo, Sales Trader, SAXO Singapore discusses how markets are pricing in the latest trade war escalation, and whether the upcoming US earnings season is likely to disappoint against the tariff environment.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: How real leaders drive lasting change

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 00:59:51 +0000

In a world where change is constant and complexity is the norm, the need for authentic, resilient leadership has never been more critical. As organizations navigate shifting landscapes—from digital disruption to evolving workforce expectations—the pressure is on leaders to not just perform, but to transform.

Wendy Wong, Managing Partner of Petadiri Leadership Development and Advisory PLT joins the Breakfast Show to share what it really means to lead with purpose, how leaders can unlock their full potential, spark lasting transformation, and foster cultures where people—and performance—can thrive.

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Breakfast Quiz: Do you know some of the world's strangest tariffs?!

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 00:59:41 +0000

The word “Tariffs” has probably been one of the most used words of the year so far! It has been a wild few weeks; with Donald Trump implementing sweeping tariffs on most countries, then pausing some of them except for the ones against China.

We’ve had “Tariff Thursday”, “Turnaround Thursday”, and so now it’s time for “Funky Taxes Friday”. Did you know the world has seen some crazy, weird taxes in the past? Play along!

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced and edited by Audrey Siek

Photo & Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Are chocolates losing their appeal?

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 00:02:51 +0000

After a volatile trading session that sent the Stoxx Europe 600 Index tanking more than 4%, European stocks are finally getting their much needed breather from Trump’s tariffs. But unfortunately for one, its stock price hasn’t stopped melting…

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang journey into the world of chocolates and cocoa beans as they investigate Barry Callebaut’s recent meltdown and find out if the world still craves the brown sweet treats today.

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US Markets Wrap: How is Beijing reacting to Trump's tariffs on imports from China?

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 23:47:56 +0000

Dilin Wu, Research Strategist, Pepperstone shares her insights on how markets are pricing in the potential retaliation from China, bond market movements, rise in Hang Seng Index and whether she is bracing for more headwinds as the US earnings season kicks off.

Presented by: Ryan Huang
Produced by: Yeo Kai Ting (ykaiting@sph.com.sg)
Photo credits: Kevin Frayer/Getty Images; Nathan Howard/Reuters; AP; Kylie Cooper/Reuters

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Breakfast Bites: What is Tiktok's "cookie challenge" and why has it garnered 49m views??

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 22:59:30 +0000

Have you heard of Tiktok's viral "cookie challenge?"

If your answer is no, you might want to join another 49 million people and give it a watch.

It's about kids, parents, cookies and sharing.

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey dive into it!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced and edited by Emaad Akhtar

Photo & music credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Trump pauses global tariffs but hits China even harder

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 05:06:15 +0000

Lee Kian Soon, CEO, Astral Asset Management, discusses how investors should approach Chinese markets as the US-China trade war heats up even further following US President Donald Trump's move to hike China tariffs to 125%, while keeping it at 10% for most other countries.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: How is ENGIE Lab powering Singapore’s evolving energy landscape

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 01:02:57 +0000

The energy industry has been undergoing a transformative shift over the last few decades. With mounting pressures to combat climate change and the rise of renewable energy, countries around the world are focusing on innovation to meet growing energy demands sustainably. And here in Singapore, ENGIE Lab Singapore is leading this charge.

Yee Wah Tang, Managing Director at ENGIE Lab Singapore joins the Breakfast Show to discuss her strategic approach to sustainability and energy innovation, and how her company is leveraging research and partnerships to turn today's energy challenges into tomorrow's breakthroughs.

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Morning Shot: Trade Wars and Changing Alliances - Trump’s Tariffs at the Crossroads

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:27:37 +0000

In a dramatic change of policy, just hours after levies against roughly 60 of America's trading partners came into effect, US President Donald Trump made a tariff u-turn.

Trump authorised a 90-day pause in the higher tariffs for most countries he announced last week - while maintaining a 10% baseline tariff across the board.
But at the same time,Trump raised tariff rates on China to 125% after Beijing imposed additional retaliatory tariffs on US goods.

On this episode of Morning Shot, Casey Mace, Chargé d’Affaires at the US Embassy in Singapore shares his insights.

Presented by: Emaad Akhtar & Audrey Siek
Produced by: Yeo Kai Ting (ykaiting@sph.com.sg)

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Companies To Watch: Will you pay more for your next iPhone?

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:23:29 +0000

Right before US President Donald Trump decided on a 90-day tariff pause, if there’s one thing clear about his policy threat to the global economy, it’s the fact that even stocks viewed as a safe haven of sorts isn’t immune to shocks. While Trump’s backpedal provided a much needed reprieve for Apple's stock price, the ever evolving tariff narrative undoubtedly puts it in a sticky situation.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang assess the iPhone maker’s business prospects, especially in the wake of a recent historic selloff, and find out how much of a dent would the escalation of Trump’s current trade war with China have on its ability to deliver in the foreseeable future.

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US Markets Wrap: Trump's Tier 2 Tariffs

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 23:57:35 +0000

Chris Weston, Head Of Research, Pepperstone shares his insights on the magnitude of the latest signals in the markets following Trump's latest tariff surfs, odds of a recessions on the horizon, whether the retaliatory tariff moves between the US and China could escalate even further in coming days, as well as how investors are navigating in order to find a window for entrance.

He also weighs in on how investors should be pricing in and the forecast for the FOMC rate path ahead.

Presented by: Ryan Huang
Produced by: Yeo Kai Ting (ykaiting@sph.com.sg)
Photo credits: Andrew Harnik/Getty Images

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Bigger Pic: Will trade wars spark recession in Singapore?

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 02:58:24 +0000

Vishnu Varathan, Head of Economics & Strategy, Asia at Mizuho Bank discusses the odds of Singapore entering a recession amid a global growth slowdown from trade wars. He also shares why the USD has lots its mojo in recent times, and has not been behaving like the safe haven currency it conventionally has been.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Special: How tariffs & trade wars could shape voter sentiments at GE2025

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 01:02:31 +0000

The race is heating up as we see new faces appearing in the community with GE2025 soon to be upon us.

However, recent global unrest regarding US Trump Tariffs have shaken up Singapore in more ways than one. So the question is, will this be a factor to consider when we look at how political parties approach potential voters.

On the Breakfast Show, Audrey speaks to Dr Reuben Ng, Assistant Professor at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at NUS, as they discuss more about recent news surrounding GE2025 and how US Tariffs could potentially play a role in campaign strategies.

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Mind Your Business: Sculpting Singapore’s woodworking legacy

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 00:56:00 +0000

Woodworking is more than just a craft; it’s a testament to patience, skill, and the delicate balance between tradition and innovation. In a world where mass production and technology dominate, the timeless art of shaping wood into functional masterpieces requires a deep understanding of both the past and the future.

Ryan Yeo, Operations Director at Roger&Sons joins the Breakfast Show as he shares the philosophy and dedication behind the company’s approach, revealing how he continues to push the boundaries of craftsmanship while staying true to the roots of woodworking.

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Breakfast Bites: How much screen time do you have daily? Do you need a tech break?

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 00:38:26 +0000

Be honest: how many times have you checked your phone today? While many parents are careful about limiting screen time for their kids, a lot of us adults don’t hold ourselves to the same standard.

So how should we fix this? A key suggestion is something called the tech break. It’s a simple practice that helps you build healthier habits/

Audrey, Ryan and Emaad discuss tips on how to give our eyes and brains a break from the screens.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced and edited by Audrey Siek

Photo & Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: Is this the end of Tesla?

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 00:19:38 +0000

Tariffs have been top of mind for most investors, especially amid a $10 trillion market sell off, hammering almost every sector of the economy. And while some might think it’s a good time to start stocking up on Tesla given that it has a far smoother tariff road than other carmakers, one of Wall Street’s most bullish Tesla analysts isn’t feeling it…

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they investigate what analysts are saying about the EV maker and why many think there’s more room for the stock to fall in the foreseeable future.

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US Markets Wrap: How are traditional safe haven assets evolving in today's shifting market?

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 23:52:03 +0000

Matt Maley, Chief Market Strategist, Miller Tabak shares his insights on how much downside investors should brace themselves for as Trump's tariffs kick in, outlook on growth given the tit-for-tat tariffs and whether we're headed for a slowdown.

He also weighs in on which safe havens investors are looking into right now, whether they should be cutting exposure from equities and if gold is still shining bright for investors.

Presented by: Ryan Huang
Produced by: Yeo Kai Ting (ykaiting@sph.com.sg)
Photo credits: Carlos Barria/Reuters; pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Great Singapore Stock Sale?

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 07:43:55 +0000

Alvin Chow, CEO, Dr Wealth, discusses whether the recent plunge in markets is a good opportunity for entry, or if stocks are due for more downside when higher tier tariffs kick in on 9 April 2025.

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Mind Your Business: The crypto heist that shook the world

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 03:48:28 +0000

Beyond the unavoidable effects of US President Donald Trump’s tariffs, the global crypto community is still reeling from the shocking $1.4 billion Ethereum heist orchestrated by the notorious Lazarus Group, a North Korean cybercrime syndicate. This unprecedented attack has not only exposed vulnerabilities in the digital finance ecosystem but has also raised urgent questions about how companies can better protect themselves in an increasingly hostile cyber environment.

Jonathan Levin, CEO & Co-founder of Chainalysis joins the Breakfast Show to discuss his insights on how blockchain technology can be leveraged to enhance security measures and prevent future attacks of this scale, and the broader implications of global trade policies on the crypto market, particularly the impact of Trump’s tariffs.

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Breakfast Bites: Do you carry an emergency travel bag? Here's what you could have in it!

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 02:08:25 +0000

Have any of you ever considered taking an emergency travel bag - in addition to checked and other carry-on luggage - on your business and / or pleasure trips?

If the answer is no, it might be time to reconsider, because travel mishaps can and do happen.

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey reveal some essentials that could come in handy on your next adventure!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced and edited by Emaad Akhtar

Photo & music credits: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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US Markets Wrap: US inflation swaps - How hefty will the short term impact from Trump's tariffs be on consumer prices, as recessionary fears escalate?

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 00:39:12 +0000

Sonu Varghese, Vice President & Global Macro Strategist, Carson Group shares his insights on whether investors are overreacting to the latest tariffs, where he's sitting right now with recessionary fears reverberating through the markets, impact of the tariffs on prices, and what's on investors' playbooks right now amid the waves of uncertainty.

Presented by: Ryan Huang
Produced by: Yeo Kai Ting (ykaiting@sph.com.sg)
Photo credits: Getty Images

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Companies To Watch: How will Trump’s tariffs impede the growth of Singapore’s magnificent 3?

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 00:01:04 +0000

To say that Trump’s tariffs are sending shockwaves across global markets might be an understatement. After all, the sea of red in the wake of Trump’s latest agenda is reinvigorating fears of tampered growth expectations for companies and in the worst case scenario a recession. And here in Singapore, our banks are not spared.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they look into the declines of Singapore’s trio of banks and find out what an escalating global trade war would mean for the banking sector moving forward.

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Mind Your Business: Snack smarter with the future of vending

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 01:29:56 +0000

For a while now, food from vending machines have often been perceived as convenient, affordable but also unhealthy. But what if vending machines could offer something far beyond a candy bar or a can of soda?

Serene Ong, Founder, HYPHA joins the Breakfast Show to share how she is empowering local food brands, supporting sustainability, and delivering quality straight to consumers with unparalleled convenience through vending machines.

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Bigger pic: How much deeper can the global market sell-off get

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 01:29:38 +0000

From stocks to bonds and commodities, the trade war unleashed by US President Donald Trump is leaving very little unscathed. Across the global markets, we’re witnessing a complete meltdown in markets from Asia, Europe and various parts of the developing world. In fact US markets were the hardest hit, with stocks plummeting to levels not seen since 2020. So how should investors be making sense of the current market turmoil?

Dan Koh is joined by Kyle Rodda, Senior Financial Market Analyst at capital.com to discuss how markets are digesting news of the evolving tariff war, Beijing’s retaliatory measures and key economic data to watch out for the week ahead.

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Companies To Watch: Your Rolex’s about to get more expensive

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 01:29:20 +0000

Recognized for its precision, quality and timeless designs, it’s no surprise that Rolex has come to be one of Switzerland’s biggest names in the field of luxury watches. But for many watch lovers out there, you might end up burning a bigger hole in your wallet just to wear it on your wrist!

Join Dan Koh and Emaad Akhtar as they find out the repercussions of Trump’s 31% tariff on Switzerland and its watch market, and how much more can consumers expect to pay for these timeless pieces.

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Morning Shot: Hope Under Rubble - Myanmar’s Need for Aid and Peace

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 00:41:48 +0000

Heavy rains have added misery to Myanmar, which was recently hit by a magnitude 7.7 earthquake. The worst-hit areas - Naypyidaw, Mandalay, and Sagaing - have suffered extensive damage to infrastructure, and a mounting official death toll now exceeding 3,000.

The earthquake was the most catastrophic in Myanmar’s recent history, occurring amid a prolonged political crisis and escalating civil war triggered by the 2021 military coup. The overlap of a natural disaster with a governance crisis complicates relief efforts and raises questions about how aid can be delivered efficiently and equitably.

On this episode of Morning Shot, Benjamin William, Secretary-General of the Singapore Red Cross shares his insights.

Presented by: Emaad Akhtar & Audrey Siek
Produced by: Yeo Kai Ting (ykaiting@sph.com.sg)

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Breakfast Bites: Life coaches: Help, Hype or Hustle?

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 00:30:50 +0000

After a tough week at work or maybe it was a tough time in your life, have you ever felt like you need a life coach to guide you through life’s chaos? Steve Jobs and Google’s Eric Schmidt famously started working with coaches; but now it’s no longer just for the C-Suite execs.

But here’s the question: are they actually helping? Audrey and Emaad discuss the dangers of an unqualified coach. Catch the full article on the Straits Times!

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced and edited by Audrey Siek

Photo & Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Special: Power Shift - What's Next for South Korea?

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 00:28:28 +0000

South Korea has just made history — Former President Yoon Suk-yeol has been officially removed from office last week.

On the Breakfast Show, Audrey and Emaad break down the Constitutional Court’s verdict and discuss what it means for the country moving forward. More importantly though, the sudden power vacuum is reshaping the race for the Blue House, thus they look at the potential candidates that could be the new leader of South Korea.

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Bigger Pic: How much growth slowdown will Singapore suffer?

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 02:16:21 +0000

Jingyi Pan, Economics Associate Director, S&P Global Market Intelligence PMI Team discusses the impact of tariffs on Singapore directly and indirectly. She looks at some of the recent PMI readings, which indicate continued softness in the manufacturing sector.

Produced/Presenter: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Quiz: What's the history behind our iconic streets? Find out!

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 00:50:08 +0000

We walk on them, ride on them and drive on them.

Singapore's iconic streets aren't just a fundamental means of movement for people and goods - they are also an essential part of the nation's social fabric.

But how well do you know the history behind our smoothly paved friends?

Play along with the Breakfast crew!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced by Emaad Akhtar

Edited by Audrey Siek

Photo & Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Breakfast Special: Will colour-coded price labels at economy rice stalls improve price transparency?

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 00:49:59 +0000

In a move to make prices more transparent for consumers, food chain operator Koufu will be rolling out colour-coded price labels at all its economy rice stalls by the end of 2025. This comes on the back of disputes over how much each dish is priced at and aims to give consumers more certainty about the cost of their plate of food.

With this, CASE hopes the initiative will "lay the groundwork" for all economy rice stalls in Singapore to display their prices for individual dishes.

On this episode of Breakfast Special, Associate Professor Lau Kong Cheen, Head of Marketing Programme at the School of Business at Singapore University of Social Sciences shares his insights.

Presented by: Audrey Siek
Produced by: Yeo Kai Ting (ykaiting@sph.com.sg)
Photo credits: Lianhe Zaobao

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US Markets Wrap: Record Q4 Buybacks, Softer Trends to Begin 2025. Why are investors eyeing Global Repurchase Developments?

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 00:43:56 +0000

Yussef Gheriani, Director of Investments and Operations, IHT Wealth Management shares his insights on the broad selloff we're seeing in the markets, growing talks on a potential recession, odds of more rate cuts, as well as the playbook for investors trying to find a harbour of sorts to get into a position to hedge their bets or investments. He also weighs in on record buybacks and whether the correction and slump in values are potential tailwinds for companies to continue that trend.

Presented by: Ryan Huang
Produced by: Yeo Kai Ting (ykaiting@sph.com.sg)
Photo credits: pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: How much higher can Gold prices get

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 00:38:06 +0000

Amid a global market selloff, therein lies an asset that retains its shine - gold. In fact, prices of the yellow metal surged to an all time high after President Donald Trump unveiled his sweeping “reciprocal” tariffs, and according to many analysts, there’s room for more.

Dan Koh and Ryan Huang take a deep dive into the demand forces fueling the dazzling rally of gold prices and find out if everyone’s favorite precious metal can hold its appeal in this fearful market.

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Bigger Pic: Markets under heavy pressure as tariffs shock trade partners

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 05:19:25 +0000

Sean Quek, Senior Portfolio Manager (Paragon SAGE Fund), Paragon Capital Management Singapore discusses how Trump's slew of hefty tariffs globally will shape his investment approach in the coming quarters.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Mind Your Business: How automation can safeguard against costly financial errors

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 01:15:11 +0000

In February, a single error by Citibank led to a $81 trillion mistake—one of the most infamous financial blunders in recent history. This was a stark reminder of the risks financial institutions face due to human error and inefficiencies in manual processes. As the financial world grows increasingly complex, the need for automation in accounting and finance has never been more urgent.

Jo-Ann Chung, CEO of Summit Global joins the Breakfast Show to find out why automation is no longer just a convenience, but a necessity for preventing disastrous financial mistakes and how her cutting-edge automation tools are designed to empower accountants, reduce costly errors, and streamline financial workflows.

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US Markets Wrap: Trump’s tsunami of tariffs

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 01:06:16 +0000

Mark Matthews, Managing Director & Head of Research Asia, Julius Baer shares his insights on the latest tariff headlines coming out of the US, impact on global growth, whether we are likely to see the China Plus One effect, as well as the current momentum behind gold at the moment.

Presented by: Ryan Huang
Produced by: Yeo Kai Ting (ykaiting@sph.com.sg)
Photo credits: Carlos Barria | Reuters

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Breakfast Bites: How brands trick you into spending - It's all in the mind(games)!

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 00:48:48 +0000

Ever bought something on impulse and later thought, “Wait… did I REALLY need that?” You’re not alone. Brands have mastered the art of sneaking into our brains and making us buy things—without us even realising it.

It’s called neuromarketing—a powerful blend of psychology and neuroscience that influences how we react to ads, pricing, and packaging.

In this Breakfast Bites, we break down the marketing mind tricks that get us every time—and how you can spot them before they empty your wallet.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced and edited by Audrey Siek

Photo & Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Companies To Watch: What J&J’s talc litigation setback means for its share price

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 00:32:31 +0000

They say that third time’s a charm. But unfortunately, that doesn’t seem like the case for Johnson & Johnson after it was announced that a US bankruptcy judge had rejected the pharmaceutical giant’s $10 billion proposal to end 60,000 lawsuits against its baby powder.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they explore the latest dismissal of J&J’s bankruptcy gambit and the approach they will be taking to address these claims.

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Bigger Pic: Getting TIPSy to inflation proof investments

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 02:54:03 +0000

Daryl Ho, Senior Investment Strategist, DBS Bank’s Chief Investment Office discusses why Treasury Inflation Protected Securities (TIPS) look particularly attractive in the current climate of frequent geopolitical or economic shocks occupying the headlines.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Breakfast Bites: Is IKEA pronounced "eye-kee-uh" or "ee-kay-ah"?

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 02:53:18 +0000

We've all been guilty of mispronouncing a global consumer brand at some point in our lives.

IKEA is one notable example. Porsche is another.

The question is, are we aware of it?

Emaad, Ryan and Audrey reveal the most commonly mispronounced brands (the two above, included) and the right way to say 'em!

Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek

Produced and edited by Emaad Akhtar

Photo credit: The Straits Times

Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: How is NetApp helping business keep the human touch in a data-driven world

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 00:49:35 +0000

AI is revolutionizing marketing, driving hyper-personalization, predictive insights, and automation like never before. But as brands lean into AI, how do they ensure customer experiences remain personal, authentic, and trust-driven?

Gabie Boko, Chief Marketing Officer at NetApp, joins the Breakfast Show as they explore how businesses can harness AI without losing the human connection, and how to best navigate data challenges while balancing automation with empathy.

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GE2025: Unpacking the New Election Spending Limits

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 00:35:58 +0000

As Singapore gears up for the 2025 General Election, significant changes are unfolding in the political landscape, through an increase in the election expenses cap from S$4 to S$5 per elector.

The Electoral Boundaries Review Committee cites inflation and rising campaign costs, but how will this reshape electoral strategies and voter engagement in the upcoming polls?

Joining us on The Breakfast Show to elaborate more on the implications of these changes is Dr Mustafa Izzuddin, Senior International Affairs Analyst, Solaris Strategies Singapore.

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Companies To Watch: Is Huawei set to be the next king of smartphones?

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 23:53:18 +0000

Founded in 1987, Huawei has grown to become a leading global provider of information and communications technology infrastructure and smart devices. And despite facing multiple US sanctions over the years, it looks like their venture into new areas have been paying off.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang as they cruise through Huawei’s latest financial report and find out if the smartphone maker is staging a global comeback.

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US Markets Wrap: Beyond gold, where are investors looking amid uncertainties and tariff headlines?

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 23:24:16 +0000

Alex Morris, CEO at F/m Investments shares his insights on the gold action right now, and its prospects for the rest of the year. He also weighs in on inflation, instruments that are worth looking at right now, durations that he is opting for when it comes to treasury inflation protected securities, and his playbook for equities and energy.

Presented by: Ryan Huang
Produced by: Yeo Kai Ting (ykaiting@sph.com.sg)
Photo credits: pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Bigger Pic: Important to distinguish signal vs noise

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 02:44:33 +0000

Ray Heung, Senior Investment Strategist, Standard Chartered Bank discusses how investors should position themselves in Q2, amid global trade tensions and geopolitics. He shares his view why the US is likely to avoid a recession, and equities will rebound once volatility normalizes.

Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang

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Morning Shot: Rise and Fall of Venezuela as a Petrostate - What does an “America first” approach to Venezuela look like?

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 00:15:28 +0000

The political and economic situation between the United States and Venezuela is growing increasingly tense - spanning domestic and international borders, involving deportations, oil tariffs, and geopolitical maneuvering.

Even as questions arise in a legal challenge over the process to determine gang members, the Trump administration deported more alleged Venezuelan and MS-13 gang members to El Salvador over the weekend.

On the trade front - US President Donald Trump recently issued an executive order declaring that any country buying oil or gas from Venezuela will pay a 25% tariff on trades with the US. According to the executive order, the 25% tariff to be imposed on buyers of Venezuelan oil will take effect on 2nd April and would be combined with any existing tariffs.

On this episode of Morning Shot, we dig deeper into the constitutional debate behind the deportations, impacts of oil tariffs on Venezuela as a petrostate, and why Venezuela’s ongoing descent into economic and political chaos is a cautionary tale of the dangerous influence that resource wealth can have on developing countries.

Presented by: Emaad Akhtar & Audrey Siek
Produced by: Yeo Kai Ting (ykaiting@sph.com.sg)

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US Markets Wrap: Is a slowdown more likely than a recession?

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 00:15:14 +0000

Sevasti Balafas, CEO at GoalVest shares her insights on choppiness in the markets ahead of "Liberation Day" on 2nd Apr as promoted by President Donald Trump, rotation away from some expensive names, CoreWeave's US initial public offering, as well as sentiments around recessionary fears. She also weighs in on what investors' playbooks are looking like as we head into the rest of 2025, amid an uncertain rates path.

Presented by: Ryan Huang
Produced by: Yeo Kai Ting (ykaiting@sph.com.sg)
Photo credits: Dado Ruvic | Reuters

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Companies To Watch: Can Pop Mart keep the collectible craze popping higher?

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 00:02:45 +0000

Many of us know it for its iconic furry monster-like dolls embraced by collectors and celebrities alike. Others might recognize the brand for its exciting blind box concept featuring popular characters like Molly, SkullPanda, and Crybaby. But if there’s one thing we all can agree on today, it's how much of an impact the collectible craze is having on Pop Mart’s business.

Join Dan Koh and Ryan Huang to unpack Pop Mart’s latest financial results for the full year of 2024 and if investing in one of the world’s biggest indulgence pays off in the long run.

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Breakfast Bites: Power banks have come under fire lately. Is yours safe?

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 23:46:54 +0000

Do you rely on power banks and chargers as much as we do? Power banks have been getting a bit of bad press lately. And now if you’re flying SIA or Scoot, you can’t use it on the plane anymore. You can still bring them, but you can’t use them, and you can’t charge them either.

What’s going on? Audrey, Ryan and Emaad discuss the proper ways to use a power bank, and what you should look out for if you’re in the market for one.

Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang & Emaad Akhtar

Produced and edited by Audrey Siek

Photo & Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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Mind Your Business: Watsons and GNC revolutionize wellness retail

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 01:13:40 +0000

As Singaporeans place greater importance on health and wellness, the demand for high-quality supplements and personalized health solutions continues to soar. And according to Watsons Singapore, today’s consumers aren’t just looking for products—they seek expert advice, tailored recommendations, and a seamless, integrated shopping experience.

In response to this shift, the iconic health and beauty retailer has introduced a game-changing concept: the first-ever GNC store-within-a-store. Goh Choon Gek, Commercial Director of Watsons Singapore joins the Breakfast Show to discuss the significance of GNC’s return to Singapore after three years and what this move means for the future of wellness retail in the region.

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Breakfast Quiz: Q1 2025 is coming to an end! How well do you know March's headlines?

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:59:02 +0000

We can't believe Q1 2025 is coming to a close! Time flies - and the headlines just keep coming.

Many things have happened this month in Singapore and around the world that we’ve covered here on The Beakfast show. Let’s see how much you know about this month's top stories. Play along with us! Are you ready?

Presented by Audrey Siek & Ryan Huang

Produced and edited by Audrey Siek

Photo & Music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributors

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