MONEY FM 89.3 - Your Money With Michelle Martin

Michelle Martin speaks with Eugene Lim, Founder and CEO of “The Assembly Place,” on the lessons from his new book "The Placemaker" which is about this Singapore entrepreneur how used streetsmarts to develop a whole new business model of community living. From launching in 2019 to listing on the Singapore Exchange, his journey is a masterclass in resilience and reinvention. Eugene shares the mindset shifts required to move from one of the youngest real estate agents at age 22 to becoming CEO of a listed company. Plus his plans to extend dignity and community to underserved segments like migrant workers. Hosted by Michelle Martin Guest: Eugene Lim, Founder and CEO of “The Assembly Place” and his book "The Placemaker".See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if one person, one idea, and one restless night could build a global gaming success? Michelle Martin sits down with 33-year-old Yeo Ying Zhi, founder of YYZ Studio, to explore how indie developers are reshaping the gaming industry. From building Havendock into a 100,000-player hit to creating viral web games like Enchanted Heroes, YYZ shares what it really takes to go solo. We unpack the indie business model - owning your IP, taking full risk, and competing without big studio backing.Hosted by Michelle Martin. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if the biggest threat to food companies… isn’t inflation but your shrinking appetite? GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic are reshaping consumer behavior, forcing food giants to rethink portions, pricing, and product strategy. Meanwhile, US markets wobble as the Russell 2000 slips into correction territory, raising questions about the durability of the rally. Asian tech earnings from Xiaomi, PDD, Meituan and BYD are now in focus as investors hunt for growth signals. Corporate headlines add to the volatility - from Super Micro’s sharp selloff to Sinopec’s profit drop and Elon Musk’s legal battles. And in tech, Amazon explores a bold return to smartphones, joining Apple, Google, Meta and OpenAI in the race to redefine AI hardware. Hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang. Companies in focus: Amazon, Apple, Google, Meta, OpenAI, Xiaomi, PDD Holdings (Pinduoduo), Meituan, BYD, Coca-Cola Andina, Super Micro, Sinopec, Singtel, Sembcorp Industries, Hongkong Land.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A niche corner of real estate is quietly delivering strong income - but is it built to last? Michelle Martin explores whether purpose-built worker and student housing can offer investors stable, resilient returns in uncertain markets. Hosted by Michelle Martin, with insights from Centurion Accommodation REIT’s Chief Investment Officer Ginny Ang, we unpack how the REIT beat its DPU forecast and what’s driving demand. We examine why worker housing may behave differently from offices and malls - especially during economic slowdowns. With occupancy already near full, the big question becomes: where does future growth come from? Plus, how rising interest rates and a focus on community well-being could shape long-term returns for investors.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A silent gas is shaking global markets - and most investors didn’t see it coming. Michelle Martin breaks down how a supply shock tied to Middle East tensions is rippling through semiconductors, healthcare and aerospace. The conversation tuns to s logistics giant FedEx posts blockbuster earnings. Hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang, both explore how industrial gas leaders like Linde and Air Products could benefit while chipmakers face rising cost pressures. We also unpack Novo Nordisk’s next obesity drug breakthrough, Xiaomi’s massive AI spending push, and strategic moves in Suntec REIT and Hongkong Land. Plus, what’s driving weakness in Singapore’s STI and whether select names like Sembcorp Industries can hold up amid broader declines. From invisible commodities to visible winners - this is a market driven by forces most investors overlook.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oil above $110, war risks rising - yet markets are climbing… what’s really going on? Michelle Martin explores the surprising resilience of equities as the Fed holds rates steady despite inflation and geopolitical shocks. We unpack how Middle East tensions - from Iran to Qatar - are reshaping energy markets and reigniting inflation fears. At the same time, capital is rotating into AI, with Nvidia at the centre of renewed chip flows into China. Plus, a bold new frontier emerges: chips in space - could this redefine the next phase of computing and investment? All this and more, hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

AI demand is exploding - but are investors already pricing in too much too fast? Michelle Martin and Ryan Huang unpack Micron’s blockbuster earnings as AI-driven memory demand surges, even as its stock slips on heightened expectations. They explore whether the AI supply chain - from Nvidia-driven demand to chipmakers - is entering a new phase of volatility. Back home, a bullish broker call on Nam Cheong highlights how oil-linked plays are riding geopolitical tensions and offshore activity recovery. The Fed signals no rush to cut rates, sending markets lower - while Tencent, Disney, and Manulife US REIT reflect diverging global corporate momentum. Plus: Singapore’s STI reclaims 5,000 - hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you want to bank on the picks and shovels play behind the AI Capex spend, you need to understand growth drivers. Investors have been piling into semiconductors but what if you wanted to look beyond NVIDIA? As computing demands grow, bottlenecks are springing up like traditional copper wiring slowing data transfers because of their heat constraints. Enter photonics: a whole field devoted to controlling photons or light. We also ask What if the biggest AI winners aren’t the ones building it - but the ones powering it? Michelle Martin explores the $700 billion AI infrastructure surge reshaping markets, from hyperscaler spending by Amazon, Microsoft, Alphabet, Meta and Oracle to the hidden bottlenecks in power and data centres. The conversation with Alvin Chow unpacks who really profits from this capex explosion. Michelle and Alvin also explore OpenClaw, the open source viral AI agent phenomenon in China; if OpenClaw boosts productivity, which companies are set to benefit really?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From drone swarms in Ukraine to robots servicing warships, investors are chasing the next battlefield of AI. Michelle Martin and Ryan Huang unpack how little-known players like Swarmer and Gecko Robotics are capturing market imagination despite thin revenues, signalling a shift where real-world deployment matters more than profits. Hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang, the conversation explores how rising oil prices are rippling across industries - from airlines raising guidance to ComfortDelGro passing on fuel costs to commuters. We examine why US markets are rebounding even as geopolitical tensions simmer, and what easing oil prices could mean for risk sentiment. In corporate news, Meta pulls back on its metaverse ambitions, Nvidia restarts China-linked production, and Singtel faces fresh scrutiny after service disruptions. On the local front, the STI surges with Singtel leading gains, highlighting resilience in Singapore equities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The era of “set it and forget it” ETF investing is being challenged - are passive ETFs no longer enough? Michelle Martin dives into the shifting ETF landscape with Aman Pujara, Director of Quantitative Research and Portfolio Construction at Syfe, as investors rethink the classic “VOO and chill” strategy. Hosted by Michelle Martin, this episode explores why active ETFs are rapidly gaining ground, now accounting for over 80% of new launches in 2026. We examine how market volatility has exposed the limitations of passive index tracking. Aman explains why active strategies are attracting a growing share of inflows and offering investors more flexibility. The conversation also tackles the hidden opportunity costs of staying fully passive during turbulent markets and the fees involved in active ETF investing. How investors can distinguish true active skill from trend-following products?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

AI demand is exploding - but can Nvidia really deliver a trillion-dollar future? Michelle Martin and Ryan Huang unpack Nvidia’s bold $1 trillion AI forecast driven by Blackwell chips, Vera Rubin systems and the rise of agentic AI that can act, not just respond. Hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang, the conversation explores whether Nvidia can maintain dominance as rivals circle and energy constraints loom. We also revisit Berkshire Hathaway’s $2 billion Iran oil windfall - a reminder of Buffett’s enduring edge in geopolitics and commodities. In corporate news, Dollar Tree surprises on pricing power while Peloton pivots to gyms, Sert expands logistics assets in Europe, and SATS rides cargo growth optimism. Back home, the STI climbs with Singapore Exchange, Singtel and Wilmar leading gains even as UOL lags. And in today’s Last Word, Pop Mart faces life after Labubu mania - can it reinvent its toy empire?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cheap mortgages, a flood of resale flats, and a widening condo price gap - is 2026 the year to buy, sell, or refinance your property? Michelle Martin explores Singapore’s unusual property moment and what it might mean for you. Daniel Sim, Founder, Golden Goose Properties and Michelle unpack whether owners should sell ahead of rising competition, refinance their loans while rates are low, or upgrade to private property. Could ripple effects could extend into executive condominiums and resale condos as more homeowners consider upgrading? With new launch prices climbing and the gap with resale condos approaching 50%, buyers and sellers face a complex set of decisions. We also explore what Singaporeans who bought overseas property should do if those investments are underperforming in today's market.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oil above $100, war in the Middle East, and AI spending from Big Tech are colliding to reshape the global market outlook. On this episode of Market View, hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang, we unpack how the Iran conflict and disruption in the Strait of Hormuz are pushing oil prices sharply higher and unsettling investors worldwide. Brent crude’s surge toward US$103 is raising fresh inflation fears just as the U.S. Federal Reserve prepares for a key rate decision. Closer to home, the ripple effects could hit Singapore’s REIT sector, which faces pressure from rising financing costs and property valuation risks. Meanwhile, corporate headlines span Meta’s AI-driven layoffs, Berkshire Hathaway’s buyback signals, and Singtel’s ambitious US$250 million AI investment fund. We also check in on the STI movers, with Wilmar International surging while ST Engineering and Yangzijiang Shipbuilding face selling pressure.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are investors focusing too much on headline DPU when evaluating Singapore REITs? Michelle Martin examines why the familiar distribution-per-unit number may not tell the full story. In this episode of Money and Me, we explore whether investors should shift their focus from the quantity of distributions to the quality and sustainability behind them. REIT specialist and Wealth Advisory Director Kenny Loh introduces a new framework - the Management Efficiency Index (MEI) - meant to help investors evaluate how effectively REIT managers generate and protect long-term income. The conversation also unpacks the risks behind 100% payout strategies, accounting optic moves, and the impact of management fees paid in units. With AGM season approaching, Kenny shares the key questions retail investors should ask management teams to better understand the resilience of distributions. Any investor heading to a REIT AGM would benefit from knowing the right questions to ask to dive beyond the numbers to get at management "sweat equity".See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you “raising a lobster”? A new open-source AI agent called OpenClaw - created by an Austrian developer - is sparking a frenzied wave of experimentation across China. The AI agent can draft reports, organise your inbox and even book you a flight. Its rapid adoption has spawned a cottage industry of small businesses helping Chinese households set up the software (you need a cloud server to run OpenClaw). Michelle Martin steers the show with markets on edge as oil surges past US$100, with tensions around the Strait of Hormuz threatening global supply and rattling investors. Meanwhile in the US, Adobe faces a leadership transition as markets question whether generative AI could disrupt its long-dominant creative software business. In our UP or DOWN segment, we take a closer look at CrowdStrike and PayPay. And in today’s Last Word, Michelle spotlight's the global rise of K-pop storytelling.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There will soon be a new way to grow your CPF savings, what do you need to know? In this episode of Ask CPF! Michelle Martin puts your questions to Wu Meei, Director of Investment Schemes at CPF Board. Will you still have access to CPFIS? What sort of products might you be able to invest in? How does portfolio rebalancing happen? Has this scheme been successful elsewhere? What sort of returns are possible? We also explore how the “glide-path” strategy works to grow your wealth, the fees and the key risks involved with using the scheme.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oil markets are on edge as Middle East conflict threatens one-fifth of the world’s oil supply moving through the Strait of Hormuz. Michelle Martin and Ryan Huang unpack the ripple effects across energy markets, global equities and insurance. Hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang, the show explores why oil prices are rising even after the International Energy Agency released a record 400 million barrels of emergency reserves. We also examine why defense stocks are suddenly being treated as safe havens by investors. In corporate news, Netflix is making a massive AI bet, while Indonesia’s GoTo surprises markets with stronger earnings guidance. Closer to home, DFI Retail surges on investor optimism while UI Boustead REIT’s public offer draws strong demand.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When markets shake, your instincts may tell you to run and turn your equities into cash - but history suggests, that action may be an expensive mistake. Michelle Martin speaks with Tim Phillips, Founder of TimTalksMoney, about why investors instinctively flee equities during turmoil - and why that move may actually be self-sabotage. What separates disciplined investors from panicked sellers in turbulent times? We find out in this episode of Money and Me hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A 200-year-old trading empire is looking good. Asian conglomerate Jardine Matheson posts strong earnings and a higher dividend as its property, retail and infrastructure empire powers ahead. Meanwhile, Oracle delivers strong profits on AI demand - but investors are questioning whether its debt-fuelled data-center buildout could become tomorrow’s risk. On Wall Street, HSBC says peak fear around the Iran oil spike may have passed - and argues it’s time to overweight equities again. Corporate news includes buyback ambitions from Salesforce, an AI-agent social network move by Meta, tax provisions at Mapletree Logistics Trust, and profitability at EV maker Nio. Markets, strategy and the stories behind the numbers - hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang. Companies mentioned:Jardine Matheson • Oracle • Salesforce • Meta • Mapletree Logistics Trust • Nio • Yangzijiang ShipbuildingSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if inflation isn’t an accident - but a feature of the system? In this episode of Money and Me, hosted by Michelle Martin, we dive beneath the headlines with Paul Musson, author of Capital Offence: Why Some Benefit At Your Expense. Musson argues that the modern monetary system quietly redistributes wealth - often from savers and wage earners to asset owners. We unpack why many investors confuse money with real capital, and why that matters. The conversation explores declining trust in systems, the role of central banks, and whether gold or cryptocurrencies are rational responses. Finally, we examine what a future might look like in a world of rising debt, deficits and monetary expansion.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

War rhetoric, surging oil and AI spending are colliding - and markets are trying to figure out what breaks first. In this episode of Market View, hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang, we unpack how mixed signals from U.S. President Donald Trump on the Iran conflict are rattling investors and pushing Brent crude toward the US$100 mark. We explore what 50 years of oil shocks teach us about the two signals markets really watch during geopolitical crises. Strategist Ed Yardeni warns the odds of a U.S. market meltdown could rise to 35% if the Iran conflict escalates - but is that too pessimistic? Meanwhile, the AI infrastructure race intensifies as Oracle builds massive data centers financed by heavy borrowing. We also play UP or DOWN with HPE, Hims & Hers, YouTube and Suntec REIT, and check in on the Straits Times Index, Hongkong Land, UOL and Wilmar International as Singapore markets try to stabilize. Companies mentioned: Oracle, Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), Hims & Hers, YouTube, Suntec REIT, Hongkong Land, UOL, Wilmar InternationalSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A smoky char siew filling , molten salted egg custard, and a skin so thin it almost melts in your mouth- this humble pau has built a Singapore food legacy spanning three decades Tanjong Rhu Pau is so famous customers keep returning. Founded in 1988, the family business is now run by siblings Chloe Yap and Yap Wei Jie, who stepped in to continue their parents’ legacy. They share their modern expansion plans, including deliveries, with Michelle Martin. Find out how this family businesses is reinventing while staying true to what made them beloved in the first place.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Singapore retiree has sparked a lot of conversation after revealing she receives roughly $4,600 a month from CPF payouts. We examine the numbers behind her strategy For listeners turning 55 today, the key question is whether replicating this strategy is still possible under today’s CPF rules. We explore the role of the Enhanced Retirement Sum (ERS), annual top-ups and the powerful impact of compounding. We also unpack what meaningful retirement payouts mean for different life circumstances in this episode of Money and Me, hosted by Michelle Martin, with guest Elijah Lee of Phillip Securities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

War risk in the Middle East is back on traders’ screens - and the ripple effects are already shaking oil, defense stocks, airlines and global markets. Escalating tensions in the Middle East - including Iran’s unprecedented leadership succession - are sending shockwaves through global markets. Oil has surged above US$100 a barrel for the first time in years, reigniting inflation fears and putting pressure on equities. Defense companies are rallying while travel and aviation stocks stumble amid rising geopolitical uncertainty. Meanwhile investors are watching Greg Abel’s first major moves as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway for clues on the next phase of Warren Buffett’s empire. Closer to home, the Straits Times Index slipped for the week as Singapore Airlines, SATS and Jardine Matheson came under pressure while ST Engineering surged on defence optimism. In this episode of Market View, hosted by Michelle Martin we unpack how geopolitics is reshaping sector winners and losers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet some of Singapore's most impactful individuals in Influence with Michelle Martin. If you are going through pain, sorrow or grief, trust that you are not alone After losing his 26-year-old son Lawrance to manic depression, philanthropist Yen-Lu Chow set out to transform grief into action by founding - together with his wife - the Over The Rainbow Academy that helps parents with resources and which gives young people a platform to "just be heard". The academy aims to help transform the landscape of mental wellness in Singapore and offers scholarships for its training programmes. Social innovator Yen-Lu Chow believes getting to a "we first society" starts with very important first step; caring for the self. We ask: in a competitive world driven by individual success, can Singapore move from a “me-first” mindset to a “we-first” culture that protects its human capital? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is Singapore’s property market quietly shifting after Budget 2026? In this episode of Money and Me, hosted by Michelle Martin, we break down what new policies on foreign work passes, AI investment and housing demand could mean for buyers and investors. Michelle speaks with Christine Sun, Chief Researcher and Strategist at Realion Group (OrangeTee & ETC), about whether the absence of new cooling measures signals confidence that prices have stabilised. They unpack why demand for some Prime and Plus HDB flats appears softer, and why first-time buyers may now prioritise space over central locations. The conversation also explores how stricter foreign hiring rules could affect rental demand and whether Singapore’s push to become an AI hub might boost long-term property values. Finally, Christine shares where investors might find the smartest opportunities in Singapore’s property market in 2026.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oil shocks, gold surges and a familiar tech giant's stumble - markets are suddenly on edge. In this episode of Market View, hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang, we unpack the forces shaking global markets - from Sea Ltd’s earnings surprise and share price plunge to Singapore’s growing ambitions as a physical gold hub. Gold prices are surging past historic levels as wealthy investors pile into safe havens and policymakers position Singapore as a regional bullion trading center. Meanwhile, a widening Middle East conflict and the Strait of Hormuz blockade threaten global energy flows, pushing Brent crude above $81 and disrupting LNG supplies. We also run through earnings movers including Target, Best Buy, Swiss sneaker maker On, DFI Retail Group and Wilmar International. Plus: the next computing revolution may not be in your phone - tech giants like Qualcomm, Meta, Google and Apple are racing to build AI-powered wearables that blend seamlessly into everyday life. Companies mentioned: Sea Ltd., Target, Best Buy, On Holding, DFI Retail Group, Wilmar International, ST Engineering, Keppel, CapitaLand Integrated Commercial Trust, Qualcomm, Meta, Google, Samsung, Apple, OpenAI.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it mean to see 70 patients a day - and still believe you are living your dream? On Influence, hosted by Michelle Martin, we are celebrating champions ahead of IWD which falls on March 8th, under the 2026 theme “Give To Gain.” Dr Deanna Koh, Resident Physician and Clinical Research Lead at SATA CommHealth Medical Centre for Migrant Workers, shares life on the frontline serving Singapore’s most marginalised. Dr Koh reveals what she has gained - and what young women dreaming of medicine need to know about the reality behind the calling.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is the so-called “sleepy” Singapore market waking up - or are we at the start of a full-blown IPO revival? In this episode of Money and Me, hosted by Michelle Martin, we unpack Southeast Asia’s reopening equity capital markets with Art Karoonyavanich of DBS. Trading volumes are up to S$1.65 billion a day in early 2026, and billion-dollar deals like UI Boustead REIT are landing smoothly despite tariff headlines. We explore why CapitaLand India Trust and Lendlease REIT can raise fresh capital even amid global trade noise - and what that says about investor confidence. Beyond property, we examine Ultragreen’s S$520m tech IPO and whether healthtech, AI and digital infrastructure are next in line. Is Singapore simply benefiting from regional recovery — or positioning itself as Southeast Asia’s IPO hub for the next cycle?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oil is surging, LNG flows are threatened, and defense stocks are flying - but are markets underestimating the inflation shock? In this episode of Market View, hosted by Michelle Martin , we unpack how a widening Middle East conflict is rippling across global markets. Crude jumps past $78, gold climbs, and LNG futures explode as Qatar halts production - yet US equities steady on hopes oil stays below the $100 danger zone flagged by Morgan Stanley. Defense names like Palantir, Lockheed Martin and ST Engineering rise, while travel and aviation players including Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific and SATS face pressure. Meanwhile, Nvidia doubles down on photonics with Coherent and Lumentum, CrowdStrike gets an upgrade, and Apple rolls out a lower-cost iPhone 17e. We break down what matters for inflation, rate cuts, and sector rotation - and where smart money may hide if energy volatility persists.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When oil spikes and planes are grounded, markets move fast - and so should you. As Middle Eastern airport hubs shut and global airlines reroute, we unpack what escalating Iran-US-Israel tensions mean for rerouted travel to this region and for Singapore investors. How long can markets stomach disruption around the Strait of Hormuz? What might this all mean for gold momentum? Nirgunan Tiruchelvam of Alethea Capital joins the conversation to map the risks and opportunities — hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oil is spiking, AI firms are being blacklisted, and inflation just ran hotter than expected - what does that mean for your money in March? As US-Israel strikes on Iran and retaliation across the Gulf rattle markets, we examine how a potential Strait of Hormuz disruption could drive energy prices higher and reignite inflation fears globally — including in Singapore. Then we turn to AI turmoil: Anthropic’s Claude has been labelled a national security risk, while OpenAI swiftly secured a Pentagon deal. Are we entering an era where political alignment determines corporate survival - and how do investors price that risk? Add in Jack Dorsey’s Block cutting nearly half its workforce for agentic AI and fresh layoff data, what does that mean for global economic growth? Simon Ree, Founder of Tao of Trading, joins us to break down safe havens, and how to position portfolios for volatility ahead - hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

War in the Middle East sends oil surging and markets are scrambling for cover. Brent crude spikes to four-year highs as investors rotate into classic safe havens, while Dow futures tumble. We unpack how OPEC may respond - and what higher energy costs mean for inflation and equities. Then, in our “Invest Like Buffett” segment, we assess Berkshire Hathaway’s final quarter under Warren Buffett and the market’s early verdict on Greg Abel. We also break down why UBS is turning cautious on U.S. stocks and preview earnings from cruise lines to chipmakers. Plus, UP or DOWN on Anthropic, the Yangzijiang names, and the Straits Times Index - hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang. Companies in focus: Berkshire Hathaway, Warren Buffett, Greg Abel, UBS, Anthropic, Apple, Yangzijiang Financial, Yangzijiang Maritime, Yangzijiang Shipbuilding, Genting Singapore, OPECSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is the world quietly walking away from U.S. tech - and should you? In this episode, hosted by Michelle Martin, we unpack the US$52 billion exodus from U.S. equities - the fastest in 16 years - where is smart money going? Guest Swapnil Mishra, author of Investing for the Clueless, Reckless and Overly Cautious, explains what “rotation” really means beneath the headlines. We examine whether U.S. tech is simply expensive - or structurally peaking after years of dominance. Nvidia posts a record US$68.1 billion in revenue while defending AI’s long-term case, even as Salesforce slides on fears of AI-driven job disruption. Are markets pricing in consumer stress and white-collar layoffs or is that a myth?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A US$100 billion media deal collapses, a gold miner surges 400%, and Nvidia still can’t satisfy investors - what’s really driving markets? In this episode, hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang, we unpack Netflix’s decision to walk away from acquiring Warner Bros. Discovery after a superior cash bid from Paramount, and what that means for streaming economics and consumers. We track CNMC Goldmine’s near-400% profit surge as gold prices power earnings - and ask whether momentum can last after a 500% share price run. Our UP or DOWN segment ranks Singapore earnings from Soilbuild’s 84% jump to Centurion’s 82% slide - separating operating strength from one-off gains. In the US, Nvidia drops despite strong results, dragging the NASDAQ lower, while the STI slips below 5,000 with UOL and City Developments leading losses. We close with market breadth, leadership shifts, and what this rotation tells long-term investors. Plus: a quick cultural pivot with the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nominees - because markets, like music, are about timing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When the Dow drops 800 points in a day, is it panic - or opportunity knocking? In this episode, hosted by Michelle Martin, we break down the brutal US selloff triggered by fresh 15% tariffs and rising policy uncertainty under President Trump. Guest Cheng Chye Hsern, Head of Investment at Providend, explains which sectors are taking the hardest hit - and where investors can pivot strategically. We examine whether today’s volatility risks echoing last year’s “Liberation Day” market tremors. Closer to home, Singapore’s big three banks post record profits even as margins soften late in the quarter. With a $1.5 billion boost to the Equity Market Development Programme, we ask whether it’s time to increase home bias toward local stocks. Finally, we explore how to balance blue-chip resilience with smaller, high-growth opportunities on the STI.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is the AI trade still unstoppable - or is smart money quietly rotating? In this episode, hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang, we unpack Nvidia’s blockbuster US$43 billion quarter and CEO Jensen Huang’s bold pushback against fears of an AI threat to software firms. We examine why Salesforce is leaning on a US$50 billion buyback as shares slide - and what that signals about SaaS sentiment. Closer to home, we explore how OCBC is prioritising special dividends over buybacks as Singapore payouts surge to multi-year highs. In UP or DOWN, we look at diverging fortunes across Air New Zealand, Qantas, Axon Enterprise and Lynas Rare Earths. We also check in on the Straits Times Index after Genting Singapore’s sharp drop. Finally, Malaysia’s durian-fuelled tourism push rounds out today’s Last Word.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In China’s 2026 market, survival isn’t about buying the dip - it’s about finding the moat. In this episode, hosted by Michelle Martin, we dissect why investors are shifting from momentum plays to structural dominance with Willie Keng, Founder of Dividend Titan (https://www.dividendtitan.com/). We explore four defining themes and why hyper-competitive sectors are being left behind. From China Tower’s near-97% telecom dominance to Tencent’s evolving identity from growth darling to cash-generating powerhouse, we unpack where durability lies. We also assess whether LVMH can maintain pricing power amid China’s luxury fatigue and the rise of local brands. Finally, in an easter egg moment, our guest shares his view on the rush for gold from the value investor perspective.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will dividends, one-off gains and Washington politics reshape market momentum this week? In this episode, hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang, we unpack why OCBC’s Q4 profit rose 3% to S$1.75 billion and what its special dividend signals about capital strength. We compare performance across Singapore’s banking trio - OCBC, DBS, and UOB - and examine why OCBC shares are outperforming. Then we turn to Singapore Airlines, where record operating revenue contrasts sharply with a steep drop in net earnings after last year’s Vistara one-off gain. From there, we assess what investors will be listening for as U.S. President Donald Trump delivers his State of the Union - tariffs, cost-of-living pressures, and election risk in focus. In UP or DOWN, we track deal tension around Warner Bros. Discovery, Paramount, Stripe, PayPal, JPMorgan Chase, and Genting Singapore, before checking whether the STI is clawing back losses.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From a pop-up in London to a 10-brand international group - how do you scale in F&B without losing soul? In this episode, hosted by Michelle Martin, Chef-Founder Dave Pynt of Burnt Ends Hospitality Group shares his journey from dishwashing to growing a culinary empire. Hard work, an attention to customer needs and smart pivots figure large, in his 13-year journey. We unpack the growth of the group from Michelin-starred Burnt Ends to Meatsmith and The Ledge in the Maldives and Bali. Dave reveals how new concepts are born while staying true to the group’s wood-fire ethos. We explore the operational realities of scaling talent, culture and consistency across borders. Finally, we ask what’s next - partnerships, new markets, or experiences diners haven’t imagined yet.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if the real AI opportunity in 2026 isn’t in the stocks everyone already owns? In this episode, hosted by Michelle Martin, we explore whether the crowded “AI Builder” trade is reaching diminishing returns and where capital could rotate next. Guest Raisah Rasid, Vice President, Global Market Strategist, JP Morgan Asset Management, maps out under-owned sectors quietly integrating AI for margin expansion. We examine how traditionally low-margin industries could see profitability leap as automation scales. With Trump’s global tariff rate rising from 10% to 15%, we unpack what Asia’s calm reaction - including the STI’s resilience - is signaling. We also look at how investors can diversify away from mega-cap concentration without losing AI exposure. Finally, we ask what contrarian AI view could define the rest of 2026.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is AI now a valuation divider? In this episode, hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang, we unpack UOB’s 7% dip in Q4 profit to S$1.41 billion and what it signals for Singapore banks amid a shifting rate environment. FedEx moves to recover tariff costs after a U.S. Supreme Court ruling, just as President Trump doubles down on global tariffs - rattling U.S. stocks. IBM tumbles 13% on fears an Anthropic programming breakthrough could disrupt legacy code businesses. Meanwhile, Paramount raises its bid for Warner Bros Discovery in a high-stakes move to counter Netflix. We also assess how the STI is holding up amid global volatility and whether this is rotation - not retreat. Companies in focus: UOB | FedEx | IBM | Anthropic | Paramount | Warner Bros Discovery | NetflixSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.