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

Singapore's big 3 banks are bracing for macroeconomic uncertainty following mixed quarterly results. DBS outperformed its peers in Q2, helping its share prices hit new highs. On the other hand, OCBC and UOB missed expectations. With tariff headwinds on the horizon, what does the rest of the year hold? Danny Khoo, Head of Sales Trading, SAXO Singapore shares more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David Abella, Director of Investments, GoalVest reviews how much momentum is behind the recent marke run, against wall of worries -including: a rich S&P 500 valuation of 22.2X, relatively high tariffs that are now in force (which can cause stagflation), and continued tariff uncertainly especially with China, India, Mexico, and Canada. Produced/Presented: Ryan Huang Image: Pete Linforth from PixabaySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This edition of the Breakfast Quiz has a special, 60-year-old ring to it. National Day is nearly upon us, and as Singapore celebrates a milestone year in its history, Emaad tests Ryan and Audrey on how well they know our little red dot, all the way from the 1960s to the present day! Play along in the SG60 spirit! Happy birthday Singapore! Presented by Emaad Akhtar, Ryan Huang & Audrey Siek Produced by Emaad Akhtar Edited by Trisha Yeong Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For many entrepreneurs, failure is the beginning—not the end. Jack Yang’s story begins with personal hardship and early business loss, but evolves into a mission to empower SMEs with the right tools, governance, and funding strategies. The Breakfast Show sits down with Jack Yang to unpack his journey, his work across JYSigma and GTH Asia, and how he’s helping businesses rise through discipline, data, and deep-rooted impact.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Frank Cappelleri, Founder and President, CappThesis discusses what the fundamentals and technicals are indicating about market momentum. He also shares how he is approaching investing in energy and gold, against the tariff environment. Produced/Presented: Ryan HuangSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How much fibre do you eat in a day? We’re digging into the latest health trend that’s blowing up on social media: it’s called "Fibremaxxing", and TikTokers are loading up on fibre of all kinds.... all in the name of digestive health. But it’s not just about getting the daily recommended amount, but sometimes going way beyond it. Is this just another wellness fad, or is there something to it? Presented by Audrey Siek, Ryan Huang and Emaad Akhtar Produced by Audrey Siek Edited by Trisha Yeong Photo and music credit: Pixabay & its talented community of contributorsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Despite global headwinds in ESG, Southeast Asia’s sustainable finance market is still going strong. What is Southeast Asia is getting right? Kevin Lee, Group Head of Sustainability at CGS International, gives us a closer look at how innovation is powering real, credible change in sustainable finance. Produced, edited and presented by Audrey SiekSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From helping households cope with rising costs to celebrating Singapore’s 60th birthday, government vouchers have become a familiar form of support. But with some using their CDC and SG60 vouchers on items like AirPods or gaming consoles, questions have surfaced: Is there a “right” way to spend them? Terence Ho, Associate Professor (Practice) at the Institute for Adult Learning, Singapore University of Social Sciences joins the Breakfast Show to take a closer look at how Singaporeans are using their SG60 and CDC vouchers and what the public conversation reveals about expectations around fairness, spending, and support. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.