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Articles by Vanessa Nah
Issue #93: What's Happening This Week? DBS PayLah! Goes Live in Taiwan, NWC Recommends 6%–8% Pay Rise, and More
More than 250,000 merchants in Taiwan now accept a payment app you probably already have on your phone. Closer to home, lower-wage workers have a fresh set of pay rise guidelines to look forward to, while car buyers are taking stock after the first COE tender since a major review was announced. One local bank is making trips across the Causeway easier on the wallet, home buyers are putting more skin in the game, and the euro is looking wobbly. Here's what you need to know this week.
Issue #92: What's Happening This Week? MAS Warns of Elevated Inflation into 2027, Singapore's Economy Grows 5.4%, and More
by on Image: oatawa/iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images Over 70%. That's how much global oil prices have climbed since the start of the year—and it's a big reason pump prices may stay stubbornly high for a while yet. This week, Singapore's central bank made its latest policy call, while the economy posted another quarter of surprisingly strong growth (though your payslip may not feel it).
Issue #90: What's Happening This Week? Bus and Train Fares Rise, Electricity Tariffs Fall, and More
More than 1 million HDB households have a little something coming their way in October—and the timing couldn't be better, because your daily commute is about to get pricier. The silver lining? Your electricity bill is heading in the opposite direction, at least for now. Elsewhere, a new study finds that Singaporeans are making real progress on their legacy plans, but a new worry is emerging: whether the next generation is ready to inherit.
Li Chun 2026: The Most Auspicious Date and Time to Deposit Money This Chinese New Year 2026
You might not know it by name, but perhaps you've noticed snaking queues at cash deposit machines on a particular day during the Chinese New Year (CNY) period. That date is called Li Chun. Signifying the start of spring, Li Chun is supposedly an auspicious day for you to deposit money. Fengshui masters even determine specific hours during Li Chun when it's most auspicious to deposit cash for different zodiac signs. How did Li Chun come about?
Issue #87: What's Happening This Week? Sheng Siong Ups CHAS Discount, Grab Launches Car Marketplace, and More
It’s a bit of a give and take this week. Groceries just got a little cheaper, but driving in Singapore just got a lot pricier. Sheng Siong is sweetening its CHAS discount to 6%, while Grab is rolling out a brand-new marketplace for buying cars—new or used. Speaking of cars, Category A COE premiums just smashed through $133,000, a fresh all-time high (ouch).
UOB One vs Citi Cash Back: When Does 8% Cashback Beat 20%?
by on When it comes to cashback, is less more? I wouldn't think so. More cashback is always better, right? At least, that's what I assumed, until I started comparing two of Singapore's most popular cashback credit cards: the UOB One Cardand theCiti Cash Back Card. That conviction didn't survive the comparison. The UOB One Card currently boasts up to 20% cashback on everyday merchants like McDonald's, Grab, and Shopee.
Issue #85: What's Happening This Week? NDR 2026's New Family Support Boost, DBS PayLah! Cashback Returns, and More
Lawrence Wong delivered the National Day Rally on Sunday night, 23 August 2026. In case you missed it, we've got the family and housing highlights right here, including a fresh package that promises every Singaporean child close to $70,000 by age 17. Elsewhere, Singlife found a hidden $170,000 recovery gap most of us haven't planned for, DBS brought back its Saturday cashback perk bigger than ever, and YouTube Premium quietly got more expensive.
Public Holidays in Singapore 2027: How to Get 46 Days Off With Just 14 Days of Annual Leave
If you're the kind of person who opens the leave calendar the moment public holidays for the new year drop, 2027 is worth the effort. The Ministry of Manpower has gazetted 11 public holidays for 2027, and with the right leave days booked in the right spots, you can turn those 11 holidays into 46 days off the whole year. The best part? You don't need a fat leave balance to pull this off.
Issue #84: What's Happening This Week? GXS Launches New Credit Card, COE Premiums Jump, and More
A new credit card just dropped, and it might be the best card for Grab users—especially for overseas spend. Meanwhile, car buyers are feeling the pinch again, as COE premiums climbed across almost every category, motorcycles included. Heading over to Malaysia? Cash is officially out at two more bus stops from this week. And a new study suggests Singapore's wealthy are rethinking what retirement even looks like, though most haven't brought their kids into the conversation yet.
Trust Freedom Credit Card Review (2026)—Singapore's First Credit Card Offering Stockback
In my Trust Cashback Credit Card review, I said it Frankensteined 2 cashback modes (bonus cashback and unlimited cashback) into one card. That card just got an upgrade, with a new face and new name—the Trust Freedom Credit Card. The Frankensteined cashback duo is still very much alive inside Freedom, but it's no longer flying solo. Now, it's got 2 (spoiler: soon 3) new, less mad-scientist teammates to work with.
Issue #83: What's Happening This Week? Driving Lesson Surcharges, Insurance Premiums Surge, and More
This week, Singapore's economy is having a moment—GDP forecasts got a serious upgrade, exports are surging on the back of an AI boom, and life insurers just posted their best half in years. But not everything's rosy: if you're one of the many still waiting on a driving lesson slot, brace yourself for a fresh surcharge. From billion-dollar export gains to a $45 premium just to book a weekend slot, here's what moved the needle this week.
Issue #82: What's Happening This Week? FairPrice's $6 National Day Vouchers, Amex Shop Small's 7th Year Return, and More
This week: FairPrice hands out $6 vouchers for every $61 you spend this National Day weekend, while fresh SingStat data shows middle-income households facing their sharpest cost squeeze yet. Car buyers get a small break as COE premiums for smaller cars dip below $124,000, and Aidha marks 20 years with a new financial literacy push for migrant domestic workers.
Issue #81: What's Happening This Week? $900m Support Package, HDB Wait-Out Period Removed, and More
$900 million. That's the fresh support headed to Singapore households and businesses this week, as the government moves to soften the blow from an Iran conflict that's dragged fuel prices — and now, core inflation — higher. Speaking of driving costs, ride-hailing surcharges aren't going anywhere until September. Meanwhile, private property owners just got a much easier path back into the HDB resale market, and MAS caught markets off guard with another policy tightening.
Citi Cash Back Card Review 2026: Earn Up to 8% Cashback on Petrol, Dining, and More
The Citi Cash Back Card earns 8% cashback on petrol and private commute (Grab, Gojek, taxis) and 6% on dining and groceries—with fuel savings climbing as high as 23.64% at Caltex, Esso, and Shell when stacked with merchant promos. Quick note to clear up confusion: the Citi Cash Back Card and the Citi Cash Back+ Card are 2 different cards. This review covers the original Cash Back Card—a tiered, category-based card with a $800 monthly minimum spend.
OCBC Rewards Credit Card Review 2026: Up to 6 mpd on Shopee, Watsons and More
Vanessa Nah Wed, 20 May 2026 at 8:56 am UTC 27 min read Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. ocbc rewards credit card review The OCBC Rewards Credit Card is a rewards card built for shoppers. Until 30 Jun 2026, cardholders earn an upsized 15 OCBC$ (the equivalent of 6 air miles) for every $1 spent at Watsons and on selected online shopping platforms—Lazada, Shopee, Taobao, and TikTok Shop.
Issue #72: What’s Happening This Week? Syfe Launches Joint Accounts, Tourism Outlook Softens, and More Original
This week, Singapore's making waves on the global stage—and not always in the ways you'd expect. Our city-state has just dethroned Tokyo in one major asset class for the first time in years, while a homegrown investment platform is rolling out a feature that could change how couples and families manage money together. Meanwhile, a heavyweight local bank is shaking hands with the Australian government on a multi-year deal that could reshape regional trade.
26 Best Mother’s Day Dining Credit Card Promos in Singapore (2026)
mothers day dining credit card promotions Mother's Day is just around the corner, and what better way to show mum how much she means to you than treating her to a memorable meal at her favourite restaurant? Whether she's craving a lavish hotel buffet, an intimate afternoon tea experience, or a boozy bottomless brunch, a thoughtful meal out is one of the easiest ways to make her feel celebrated—without burning a hole in your wallet.
Issue #71: What’s Happening This Week? COE Premiums Climb, AI-Skilled Engineers Earn 25% More, and More Original
This week, Singapore's making headlines on multiple fronts. COE premiums are climbing again, with one category creeping uncomfortably close to a 6-figure milestone. The cross-border taxi scheme between Singapore and Johor Bahru just got a major shake-up, leaving commuters torn between cheers and gripes. A global financial watchdog has weighed in on how well the Republic is fighting financial crime, with a verdict that's mostly cheering but comes with a few firm nudges to do better.
Cost of Living in Singapore 2026: How Much More Are You Paying Due to High Oil Prices?
Vanessa Nah Wed, 29 April 2026 at 9:56 am UTC 8 min read Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. cost of living higher oil prices The war in the Middle East may feel a world away, but its effects are showing up much closer to home—at the petrol pump, in your grocery bill, and in just about everything that has to be shipped, flown, or made from plastic.
Issue #70: What’s Happening This Week? OCBC and SC Nerf Savings Accounts, DBS Rolls Out $10m Cashback, and More
Vanessa Nah Tue, 28 April 2026 at 7:41 am UTC 12 min read Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. singapore top finance news ocbc sc savings accounts nerfs It's been a busy week on the home front: your favourite supermarket is making more daily essentials easier on the wallet, a major bank is dishing out millions to lighten everyday spending, and tens of thousands of HDB households are about to see their estates levelled up.
Issue #69: What’s Happening This Week? Prices are Rising, MAS Tightens Policy, and More
singapore top finance news Costs are creeping up again—and you might already be feeling it at the hawker centre. At the same time, the job market is showing signs of cooling, even as policymakers step in to manage rising inflation. Across the economy, higher energy prices are quietly pushing up costs for businesses and households alike, while growth momentum looks a little less certain.
Cost Guide for Kitchen, Bathroom, Living Room Renovations in Singapore (2026)
renovation cost guide kitchen bathroom living room singapore Recently I was house-hunting for resale flats, and one thing quickly became clear: no 2 homes come with the same renovation needs. Some units had beautifully done-up kitchens that I’d happily keep as-is, but the rest of the house needed work. Others had stylish living rooms and bedrooms, but outdated bathrooms that would definitely need upgrading.
What Counts as Income When You’re Buying a Flat in Singapore?
Vanessa Nah Fri, 10 April 2026 at 10:25 am UTC 8 min read Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. what counts as income hdb singapore Did you know that if you’re a student receiving a stipend, you can be considered employed in the eyes of HDB for income assessment? I didn’t. At least not until last month, when my fiancé and I tried to buy a resale flat and ran into issues with our HDB Flat Eligibility (HFE) Letter.
What Counts as Income When You’re Buying a Flat in Singapore?
what counts as income hdb singapore Did you know that if you’re a student receiving a stipend, you can be considered employed in the eyes of HDB for income assessment? I didn’t. At least not until last month, when my fiancé and I tried to buy a resale flat and ran into issues with our HDB Flat Eligibility (HFE) Letter. It turned out we hadn’t declared his “income” correctly, and what followed was a week of calling HDB daily to sort it out.
Issue #68: What’s Happening This Week? $1B Support Package, $1,000 Payouts for Large Families, and More
singapore top finance news 8 apr 2026 This week, it’s all about rising costs—and what’s being done about them. A fresh $1 billion support package is rolling out just as inflation risks creep back into the spotlight, while COE prices continue their relentless climb. Families with more kids are getting a boost, and some workers could soon see pay rises. There are also changes that could affect how you pay your bills, and even how you cash out long-held shares.
Pandapro vs GrabUnlimited—Only 2 Players, Which is More Worth it Now?
Vanessa Nah Thu, 2 April 2026 at 9:55 am UTC 10 min read Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. pandapro vs grabunlimited If you’ve opened your food delivery apps recently, you might have noticed something missing—Deliveroo is gone for good in Singapore as of 4 Mar 2026. That leaves just 2 big names fighting for your next takeaway: Pandapro and GrabUnlimited.
How Much Ang Bao Should the Bride and Groom Give to Wedding Helpers?
Vanessa Nah Thu, 2 April 2026 at 4:37 am UTC 9 min read Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. wedding ang bao for wedding helpers singapore When we talk about wedding ang baos (red packets), most people think of guests giving them to the bride and groom. But what about the other way around?
Issue #67: What’s Happening This Week? Beverage Container Returns Begin, New IP Riders Launch, and More
singapore top finance news april 2026 Today, big changes are rolling out: both the new Integrated Shield Plan riders and Singapore’s long-awaited beverage container return scheme kick in. This month, expect to see electricity and gas tariffs heading up, U-Save and S&CC rebates landing in household accounts, and Grab rides getting pricier for a while. We’ve also got a surprise move in HDB resale prices, plus a record spike in medical cost inflation that could affect many.
Issue #66: What’s Happening This Week? Electricity Prices Jump, Fake Gold Scams Rise, and More
top finance news singapore march 2026 electricity prices rise It's been a really busy week—and if you've felt like everything from bills to markets has been shifting, you're not wrong. Electricity prices are creeping up, groceries are getting a bit of relief, and even your Grab ride might cost a touch more. At the same time, there are some bigger-picture changes worth noting: how Singaporeans are managing debt, what's happening in the job market, and a rise in scams to watch out for.
How to Stretch Your KrisFlyer Miles with Spontaneous Escapes: Tips and Best Credit Cards to Use
All Singaporeans love SQ—and let’s be honest, comparing how much we paid for our flights is practically a national pastime. If you’ve ever scored a good deal with your KrisFlyer miles, you know the thrill of sharing just how few miles you used. But what if you could stretch your miles even further? With KrisFlyer Spontaneous Escapes, you can get selected flight redemptions at up to 30% off every month.
How to Stretch Your KrisFlyer Miles with Spontaneous Escapes: Tips and Best Credit Cards to Use
krisflyer spontaneous escapes guide singapore All Singaporeans love SQ—and let’s be honest, comparing how much we paid for our flights is practically a national pastime. If you’ve ever scored a good deal with your KrisFlyer miles, you know the thrill of sharing just how few miles you used. But what if you could stretch your miles even further? With KrisFlyer Spontaneous Escapes, you can get selected flight redemptions at up to 30% off every month.
11 Best Halal Buffets in Singapore (Mar 2026)—Starting From $30++
Vanessa Nah Tue, 24 March 2026 at 1:00 am UTC 20 min read Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. best-halal-buffets-singapore-hotel-high-tea Whether you’re a Muslim or are dining with Muslim friends, you’ll be pleased to know that many of the best buffets in Singapore are halal-certified. We’re not just talking about the indulgent intercontinental buffets at hotels—there’s a lot more out there than you think.
11 Best Halal Buffets in Singapore (Mar 2026)—Starting From $32++
Vanessa Nah Tue, 24 March 2026 at 1:00 am UTC 20 min read Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. best-halal-buffets-singapore-hotel-high-tea Whether you’re a Muslim or dining with Muslim friends, you’ll be glad to know that plenty of the best buffets in Singapore are halal-certified. And it’s not just your usual hotel spreads—there’s a surprisingly wide range of options, from Peranakan and Thai-themed buffets to international spreads with local favourites done right.
How to Stack Spends and Get More Miles on Your Credit Card (2026)
stack miles on credit card guide Maximising credit card miles isn't just about spending more—it's about spending smarter. If you're a Singaporean miles chaser, you've probably heard about "stacking" your spends to squeeze out every last mile from your cards. But with new rules, tighter exclusions, and frequent changes to rewards programs, the old tricks don't always work any more.
How to Invest in Gold in Singapore (2026)
4If you’ve been following the headlines, you’ll know gold has been making history. In 2025, gold prices smashed all previous records—fuelled by global uncertainties, inflation worries, and a rush for safe-haven assets. Singaporeans rode this wave, with local investment demand for gold bars and coins surging by nearly 50%, hitting an all-time high despite those soaring prices. But gold’s story doesn’t end there.
How to Invest in Gold in Singapore (2026)
4If you’ve been following the headlines, you’ll know gold has been making history. In 2025, gold prices smashed all previous records—fuelled by global uncertainties, inflation worries, and a rush for safe-haven assets. Singaporeans rode this wave, with local investment demand for gold bars and coins surging by nearly 50%, hitting an all-time high despite those soaring prices. But gold’s story doesn’t end there.
Issue #65: What’s Happening This Week? HSBC Revolution Card Buff, ComfortDelGro Fees, Teachers’ Pay Hike, and More
singapore top finance news march 18 Surprise, surprise: COE prices are climbing again—while thousands of teachers are set to get a long-awaited pay bump later this year. Meanwhile, food service workers can look forward to steady wage increases, but aspiring drivers might feel the pinch with higher test fees. Ride-hailing? That's getting a little pricier too. On the credit card front, HSBC is giving its popular Revolution card a glow-up (with a catch, of course).
HSBC Personal Loan—MoneySmart Review (2026)
Vanessa Nah Fri, 13 March 2026 at 3:00 am UTC 15 min read Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. hsbc personal loan moneysmart review When you need extra cash—whether it’s to manage an unexpected expense, cover a big-ticket purchase, or simply enjoy greater financial flexibility—a personal loan can offer a quick solution without the long wait.
GXS FlexiLoan Review—MoneySmart Review 2026
Vanessa Nah Thu, 12 March 2026 at 2:00 am UTC 16 min read Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. gxs flexiloan moneysmart review When it comes to getting fast access to cash, digital personal loans are rewriting the rules in Singapore. One contender launched in 2023 is the GXS FlexiLoan—a flexible credit line designed for anyone who wants more control, less paperwork, and zero hidden fees.
Issue #64: What’s Happening This Week? New IP Rider Premium Cuts, Ringgit Nears RM3, and More
singapore finance news issue 64 Markets swung, healthcare rules shifted, and the job market showed fresh signs of change — it’s been a busy week for money news. From new insurance rider rules that could reshape premiums, to Singapore’s hiring market getting a boost from AI demand, there’s plenty that could affect your finances. We also look at why Singaporeans are still spending in Malaysia despite currency shifts, and a global wealth trend that could reshape investing for decades.
Issue #63: What’s Happening This Week? 10¢ Drink Deposit, Cherry Blossom Refund Guarantee, Retirement Age Rising, and More
Vanessa Nah Wed, 4 March 2026 at 9:13 am UTC 10 min read Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. whats happening this week issue 63 singapore finance news Spring brings new beginnings, and this week’s round-up is no exception. Get ready for a shake-up at your favourite drink stalls as a small deposit changes the way we buy bottled and canned drinks. Travelling to see cherry blossoms? A fresh promise means you could be protected if nature doesn’t cooperate.
American Express Platinum Credit Card-MoneySmart Review 2026
Not all Platinum cards are created equal—especially when it comes to American Express. This review covers the American Express Platinum Credit Card, not to be confused with The Platinum Card (the ultra-exclusive metal charge card that comes with airport limo rides, unlimited lounge access, and a price tag to match).
MSIG PawEasy Pet Insurance Review Singapore (2026)
Vanessa Nah Fri, 27 February 2026 at 1:11 pm UTC 9 min read Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. MSIG pet insurance review MSIG PawEasy is one of the more comprehensive pet insurance plans in Singapore, particularly when it comes to hospitalisation and surgery coverage. Premiums start from $604.26 for dogs and $241.95 for cats, with pets eligible from 16 weeks up to 9 years old.
Shopee Pet Insurance Review Singapore (2026)
Shopee Pet Insurance is the newest entrant in Singapore’s pet insurance market, launched in Jan 2026. Distributed exclusively through Shopee by MoneeInsure Agency and underwritten by MSIG Insurance, it combines the familiarity of a major insurer with the convenience of an e-commerce platform. MoneeInsure is registered with the General Insurance Association of Singapore (GIA), as required for general insurance agents.
Tiq Pet Insurance Review Singapore (2026)
Tiq Pet Insurance positions itself as an affordable, flexible plan with some surprisingly strong perks—especially for young pets. Premiums start from $355.20 for dogs and $296.00 for cats, placing it in the mid-range of Singapore’s pet insurance market. One standout feature? You can enrol your pet from just 8 weeks old—a minimum age matched only by Liberty PetCare.
CIMB My Paw Pal Pet Insurance Review Singapore (2026)
Vanessa Nah Fri, 27 February 2026 at 10:42 am UTC 7 min read Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. CIMB pet insurance review If you’ve started comparing pet insurance in Singapore, chances are CIMB My Paw Pal pet insurance has appeared on your radar—mainly because of its eye-catching flat premium of $103.55 per year for both cats and dogs. At first glance, it looks like one of the most affordable ways to get your pet insured.
Liberty PetCare Pet Insurance Review Singapore (2026)
With plan names like Adogable, Ameowing, Furtastic, Ultipaw, and Pawsh, Liberty PetCare doesn’t exactly shy away from purr-sonality. But more importantly, beyond the themed tiers sits one of the more comprehensive pet insurance offerings in Singapore. Premiums start from $392.40 per year for both dogs and cats, and pets can enrol from as young as 8 weeks old up to below 9 years—making it one of the more flexible options age-wise.
Income Happy Tails Pet Insurance Review Singapore (2026)
If you’re looking for comprehensive pet insurance in Singapore, Income Happy Tails is one of the more robust options on the market. It’s priced higher than entry-level plans, with premiums starting from $596.38 for dogs and $389.52 for cats, but it also offers some of the strongest illness coverage available. What sets Income apart? For one, chemotherapy is included as a standard benefit, not an add-on — with annual limits of up to $5,000 depending on your plan tier.
Issue #62: What’s Happening This Week? Top 5% Hold One-Third of Singapore’s Wealth, Deliveroo Exits Singapore, and More
Vanessa Nah Thu, 26 February 2026 at 3:29 am UTC 10 min read Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. singapore top finance news Inequality, inflation and even your dinner delivery app—it’s been that kind of week. Fresh data shows how wealth is really distributed in Singapore, alongside a new survey that suggests even high-income earners aren’t feeling entirely ready for retirement.
WorldFirst World Corporate Debit Card-MoneySmart Review (2026)
Vanessa Nah Mon, 23 February 2026 at 4:48 am UTC 9 min read Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. worldfirst world corporate debit card review If you’re a business owner in Singapore, you already know how painful managing payments can be—especially if you’re juggling overseas suppliers, digital subscriptions, or different currencies.
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