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

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 HuangSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 AkhtarSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 landscapeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 HuangSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 HuangSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 SiekEdited by Trisha YeongSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 HuangSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 AsiaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 SiekSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 HuangSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 HuangSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 HuangSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 KohSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 HuangSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 HuangSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 AkhtarSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 HuangSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.