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

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 PixabaySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 PixabaySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 HuangSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 AkhtarSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 PixabaySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 HuangSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With Singapore reinforcing its AI ambitions in Budget 2026, questions around data control and digital independence are intensifying. Accenture joins The Breakfast Show to unpack sovereign AI, hybrid cloud models and what enterprises must do to remain competitive and resilient.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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/_ZIxGRaoCY8See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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? 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/_ZIxGRaoCY8See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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/_ZIxGRaoCY8See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 AkhtarSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 AkhtarSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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 contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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/_ZIxGRaoCY8See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.