MONEY FM 89.3 - The Breakfast Huddle with Elliott Danker, Manisha Tank and Finance Presenter Ryan Huang

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 HuangSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 HuangSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 AkhtarSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 HuangSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 HuangSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 HuangSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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, Pepperstonediscusses 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 HuangSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 SiekSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 HuangSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 PixabaySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 AkhtarSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 HuangSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.