Podcast appearances and mentions of Michelle Martin

We sit down with Michelle Martin, Associate Artistic Director of Ballet Austin, for a refreshingly honest conversation about their complete training pipeline: the tuition-free Butler Fellowship program, Ballet Austin TWO, and the path into the main company. Michelle doesn't sugarcoat anything. She talks about why Ballet Austin kept their academy as an after-school program instead of going the full-time route, how the rise of post-grad programs has changed the industry, and what families need to know when they're researching trainee programs. Spoiler: not all programs are created equal, and some are designed more as revenue drivers than genuine training opportunities. This interview gets into the practical stuff parents want to know. Do dancers really need full-time day programs in high school? What's the actual difference between Butler Fellows (focused on training) and Ballet Austin TWO (focused on performance)? How many dancers move up through each level, and where do they go if they don't? Michelle shares the numbers and the reality behind them. We also talk about things you don't usually hear artistic directors discuss openly: why they do phone interviews before auditions, what they're actually looking for when they cast, how to be a good understudy, and why normalizing different definitions of success matters. Plus, Michelle shares what Ballet Austin learned from a major Wallace Foundation grant about building audiences for contemporary work. Interested in auditioning for Ballet Austin? Ballet Austin recruits dancers for the Butler Fellowship Program through their online Company Audition portal and through our Summer Intensive Program.   Ballet Austin recruits dancers for Ballet Austin TWO through their online Company Audition portal. Links: Read Our Ballet School Summer & Year-Round Reviews: Buy Corrections Journals Support Ballet Help Desk Instagram: @BalletHelpDesk Facebook: BalletHelpDesk TikTok: @BalletHelpDesk Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/ian-aisling/new-future License code: MGAW5PAHYEYDQZC

From Singapore’s AI ambitions to China’s EV and bubble tea giants - where is the smartest risk-reward right now? Singapore’s Budget 2026 signals an accelerated AI roadmap just as Chinese growth names like BYD, XPeng, Pop Mart and Guming Holdings capture investor attention, hosted by Michelle Martin. We unpack Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s innovation-led strategy and what it could mean for Singapore equities and AI infrastructure plays. Then we pivot to China’s EV landscape as global registrations soften and policy shifts test demand resilience. BYD’s battery leadership and export muscle face off against XPeng’s tech-driven autonomy ambitions.Pop Mart’s IP-powered collectibles and Guming’s beverage expansion highlight the power - and risk - of consumer identity investing. Are these companies building durable global franchises, or riding policy tailwinds and cyclical momentum?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our episode takes us from dormitories in Dubai to data centres in Seattle as investors navigate a market that feels both ambitious and anxious. Centurion Corp eyes Middle East expansion as Amazon stumbles, AMD faces scepticism, and Anthropic rides a post-Super Bowl surge - all while the STI flirts with the 5,000 mark. In this episode, hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang, we unpack Centurion’s “baby steps” into migrant housing demand across the Gulf. US markets pause but remain jittery, with AI reshaping sentiment around Amazon, AMD and Palo Alto Networks. Corporate earnings from Walmart and DoorDash add to the week’s catalysts as India hosts the AI Impact Summit featuring Microsoft and Anthropic. Back home, Yangzijiang Shipbuilding and Keppel Corp outperform while DBS lags the STI.Plus, in UP or DOWN, we size up GuocoLand’s movies and whether Anthropic’s marketing momentum signals something bigger. Hear about:Centurion Corporation, Amazon, AMD, Anthropic, Microsoft, Palo Alto Networks, DoorDash, Walmart, GuocoLand, Yangzijiang Shipbuilding, Keppel Corp, DBS.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can your child’s $10,000 today really turn into $86,000 - and what does Budget 2026 have to do with it?Michelle Martin unpacks the latest Budget goodies - from CDC vouchers and CPF top-ups to corporate tax rebates - and what they mean for families, seniors and businesses. Daniel Sim, Founder of Golden Goose Properties, breaks down the new voluntary CPF investment scheme and whether those in their late 40s should even consider taking market risk. We explore the bold 864% CPF growth strategy for kids, and the real trade-offs between long-term compounding and short-term liquidity. Plus, what Singapore’s new AI Park at One-North could mean for District 5 property values, rental premiums and long-term capital appreciation. A practical, future-focused conversation on money, mindset and opportunity - hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tucked away at Raffles Hotel is a new start-up with a hefty six figure annual fee for members. It aims to help its members live longer, healthier lives with preventive health checks and premium therapies on the market. Michelle Martin sits down with Ashish Chordia, Co-Founder and CEO of ELYX, to explore Singapore’s first concierge longevity service at Raffles Hotel. Instead of fragmented advice and annual check-ups, ELYX offers a coordinated “Circle of Experts” supported by an AI Healthspan Co-Pilot and research team. We unpack how data can dynamically shape health in this deep dive into the future of personalised health optimisation and executive longevity - hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is artificial intelligence about to upend trucking, property, and even your portfolio playbook? A former karaoke firm, Algorhythm Holdings, sparks an “AI Scare Trade” after unveiling its SemiCab logistics platform - rattling trucking and real estate services stocks as investors reassess disruption risk. Back home, Singapore’s S$155 billion Budget 2026 boosts AI adoption and business competitiveness just as the Straits Times Index surges past 5,000 for the first time. Wilmar International and United Overseas Land power the rally, with broker targets from UOB Kay Hian and Maybank Securities hinting at further upside. In UP or DOWN, we track Restaurant Brands, Pinterest, Instacart and Cisco as earnings and tariffs reshape sentiment. And in our Last Word, Britney Spears’ US$200 million catalog sale to Primary Wave reminds us that songs now live on balance sheets as much as playlists. A cross-asset conversation on disruption, liquidity and valuation - hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang. Hear about : Algorhythm Holdings (SemiCab), Wilmar International, United Overseas Land, Restaurant Brands International, Pinterest, Instacart, Cisco, Primary Wave.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You asked for it! Michelle Martin sits down with Dion Thong, Senior Manager, Retirement Withdrawals Department, CPF Board, to demystify CPF LIFE with questions listeners sent in. They tackle common fears - is CPF LIFE truly for life, what happens to your money when you pass on, and is the “up to 6%” interest too good to be true? We unpack enrollment rules, the threshold for inclusion, whether you can switch plans later, and what you can do today to boost your monthly payouts Find out: which plan best protects against inflation, which gives the highest starting payout, and how risk-pooling really works behind the scenes. A clear, practical guide to making one of retirement’s most irreversible decisions - hosted by Michelle Martin with guest Dion Thong, Senior Manager, Retirement Withdrawals Department, CPF Board.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From red ink to record profits - but how are Grab investors reacting? Grab posts its first full-year profit of US$268 million - and launches a US$500 million buyback - even as shares slide on concerns over growth and its US$425 million acquisition of Stash Financial. On Budget Day, we unpack what Singapore’s AI push, tighter CDC payouts and upskilling drive could mean for markets and households. In UP or DOWN: Apple’s Siri stumbles, McDonald’s value strategy delivers, Cloudflare rides the AI agent wave, and real estate services stocks wobble in the latest AI scare trade. Back home, the STI edges closer to 5,000, with SGX and Singtel leading while CapitaLand Investment slips. And in The Last Word - Avicii’s Wake Me Up crosses 3 billion streams, proving disruption often sounds risky before it sounds iconic. Hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang. In focus today : Grab, Stash Financial, Apple, McDonald’s, Cloudflare, Singapore Exchange (SGX), Singtel, CapitaLand Investment, Spotify.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if Budget 2026 could change the way you use your SRS , own your first home and teach your children about money? Ahead of Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s statement, we unpack ideas that could meaningfully reshape financial security in Singapore from a personal finance perspective. Elijah Lee, Senior Financial Services Manager, Phillip Securities, shares his view on why SRS reform could be a powerful lever for retirement flexibility and tax efficiency. We examine how stronger first-property support can balance affordability without reigniting a property bubble, think through structural cost-of-living solutions - and why financial literacy in schools may be the ultimate long-term hedge. A forward-looking conversation on Singapore budget priorities, hosted by Michelle Martin. For more Budget 2026 insights:https://www.moneyfm893.sg/whats-on/budget-2026/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hasbro soars, Mattel stumbles - and the gap between winners and losers has never looked wider. From a tale of two toymakers to sharp earnings surprises across global giants, today’s Market View unpacks what really drives stocks UP or DOWN. Hasbro jumps to a one-year high as new IP like K-Pop Demon Hunters and Harry Potter reignite growth, while Mattel sinks on discounting pressure and weak holiday sales. We size up mixed earnings signals from Coca-Cola, Ford, Spotify and Gucci-owner Kering, revealing how pricing power and execution are separating leaders from laggards. US markets churn as the S&P 500 briefly hits a record before pulling back, while bold claims from President Donald Trump on 15% growth add policy noise to investor nerves. Closer to home, we track Singapore movers including NTT DC REIT, Wing Tai and Boustead - hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hosted by Michelle Martin, this is the show that keeps your peace of mind at the heart of the wealth chase. When everything feels chaotic - wars, inflation, de-dollarisation fears and gold is rising - what if the smartest financial move is knowing when to stop chasing more? Drawing on insights from Christopher Tan, CEO of Providend, the conversation challenges the reflex to maximise, leverage, and hustle at all costs. Michelle and Chris unpack the most common investor mistakes during periods of volatility - from freezing in fear to making emotionally reactive moves. Gold makes a comeback in the headlines, but is it an investment, a hedge, or simply psychological insurance? The discussion also tackles the modern obsession with side hustles and multiple income streams - and whether more money always means more security. At the heart of it all: where to draw the line between building wealth and actually living the life that wealth is meant to support.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With Microsoft shares down more than 15% year-to-date, Michelle zeros in on a debate that couldn't be timelier for investors. Microsoft splits Wall Street - one broker waves the red flag, another doubles down on AI-driven upside. Who’s right? Microsoft is at the heart of a sharp broker divide, with Melius Research downgrading the stock over free cash flow pressures while D.A. Davidson turns bullish on the AI ecosystem surrounding OpenAI. We unpack why one camp is worried about subscription growth and capital intensity, while the other sees long-term operating leverage from AI adoption. From the US to Japan, markets also react to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s election win - and Warren Buffett’s winning Japan strategy. Our UP or DOWN segment checks in on Montage Technology, Novo Nordisk, NatWest, and Oracle amid volatile global trading. Plus, local market movers on the STI and a surprising box office twist in today’s Last Word, hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After years in the penalty box, S-REITs are staging their strongest comeback since before COVID - but the real question is: who’s thriving, and who’s just surviving? The iEdge S-REIT Leaders Index delivered a standout 16.3% return in 2025, its best annual performance since 2019, signalling a shift in momentum as rate pressures ease. But this recovery is uneven, with pockets of strength emerging while weaker balance sheets continue to lag. We break down which property types are leading the rebound, and why yesterday’s winners may not be tomorrow’s. With Singapore Budget 2026 just around the corner, expectations are building around policy support, funding costs, and growth catalysts for the sector. Kenny Loh, REIT Specialist and Wealth Advisory Director, shares what investors should watch - hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Asia-Pacific markets are flashing mixed signals - from softer bank profits to roaring equity rallies, so where is the opportunity for investors? DBS’ Q4 earnings remind investors that even best-in-class banks aren’t immune to margin pressure as interest rate tailwinds fade, even as wealth and fee income show resilience. Japan’s markets surge as Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi secures a decisive election victory, fuelling optimism around fiscal stimulus, tax cuts, and a renewed equity bull case. Wall Street stages a powerful comeback, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq jumping as chipmakers rebound and investors debate whether this is a genuine reset or a classic dead-cat bounce. Goldman Sachs spotlights selective opportunities - from nuclear energy plays linked to Meta’s power needs to under-the-radar biotech bets after a bruising year. Closer to home, Singapore stocks hold onto weekly gains, with Keppel Corp and Singapore Airlines leading, even as Yangzijiang Shipbuilding drags. All this and more - hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“It's a good end to the week” as the Dow hits 50K for the first time. Michelle Martin thinks people are buying the dip after selling was overblown. She thinks a lot of market rotation has to do with valuation and the maturity of the bull market. She sees pockets of opportunity in emerging markets, influenced by a weaker dollar and trade negotiations outside of the U.S.; she particularly likes India and Mexico. ======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day.Options involve risks and are not suitable for all investors. Before trading, read the Options Disclosure Document. http://bit.ly/2v9tH6DSubscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribeDownload the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-network/id1460719185Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-Network/dp/B07KRD76C7Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/191928615bd8d47686f94682aefaa007/watchWatch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplus-exploreWatch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-network/Follow us on X – https://twitter.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/schwab-network/About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about

Amazon which posted solid headline profits, but saw a market recoil as expectations collide with a US$200bn AI spending plan. So why did Wall Street blink? AWS shines with robust margins and growth, underscoring where Amazon’s real engine lies — the cloud and AI arms race. Meanwhile, Bitcoin sinks deeper into correction territory and silver struggles to stabilise after sharp volatility. Earnings season delivers mixed signals as Reddit and Roblox surge while tariff pressures crush consumer brands. All this as US and Singapore markets wobble, unpacked hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang. Hear about :Amazon, Amazon Web Services, Alphabet, Qualcomm, Reddit, Roblox, Ralph Lauren, Estée Lauder, DBS, CapitaLand China Trust, Elite UK REIT.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gold and silver just gave investors a brutal reminder: safe havens can still whipsaw. After blistering rallies into early 2026, both metals have plunged as a stronger U.S. dollar, ETF unwinds and crowded positioning collide. Silver’s extreme swings highlight how fragile liquidity can be when sentiment turns. Gold has fared better, but even it is facing its sharpest pullback in years as rate expectations reset. So is this a temporary correction - or the end of the precious-metals bull case? Should we still all be lining to buy gold? We break it all down, hosted by Michelle Martin who speaks with Nirgunan Tiruchelvam, Head of Consumer and Internet at Alethea Capital.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if the real risk in buying a home isn’t interest rates - but your job? In early 2026, AI disruption, shifting HDB policies and volatile careers are forcing buyers to rethink what “affordable” really means. Shorter BTO waiting times promise relief for young couples, but could trigger unexpected ripple effects across resale. At the same time, the long-standing price gap between RCR and CCR or prime and slightly beyond prime districts has narrowed to levels that are seeing some sit up. What does this all mean for you and your wealth journey? Ivan Cai, CEO of Crestbrick, breaks down what this new property cycle means for buyers and investors, hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many Singaporeans treat SRS as a “set it and forget it” tax tool, leaving cash idle at 0.05% while inflation does the damage. Hosted by Michelle Martin, this episode explores why investors are waking up - with ETF holdings in SRS accounts surging 380% to over S$800 million. We break down how SGX-listed ETFs can transform SRS from dormant savings into a long-term growth engine. From local STI anchors to global equity, bond, REIT and gold ETFs, we unpack what SRS investors are actually buying. Founder of TimTalksMoney, Tim Phillips, dives into popular choices with investors and takes us beyond the ETF wrappers for choices for someone looking to China, US and even gold! Plus, practical steps for anyone with idle SRS cash who wants to start investing confidently in 2026 and beyondSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alphabet’s blockbuster quarter puts AI back in the spotlight as the tech giant delivers surging profits and resilient ad growth, even as markets turn jittery. Hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang, this episode unpacks what’s powering Alphabet’s earnings and why its results still sparked a sell-off. We explore how AI spending is lifting hardware winners like Nvidia and Broadcom - while software stocks face mounting skepticism. The conversation widens to Wall Street’s uneven session, where tech drags on the S&P 500 and NASDAQ despite broad-based market strength. Our UP or DOWN game runs through big earnings from Eli Lilly, GSK, Uber, UBS and Yum Brands. Plus, Singapore markets hit fresh highs and a cultural “Last Word” on the Melania documentary and brand power.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

China’s investment narrative is shifting from old economy giants to new-generation growth engines. Michelle Martin speaks with Dr Wealth cofounder Alvin Chow, to explore whether the new CSI A500 index could replace the CSI 300 as investors’ core China exposure. We unpack why CSOP’s new SGX-listed ETF makes it easier for Singaporeans to “buy China” in one trade. Then, attention turns to China’s Six AI Tigers - startups positioning themselves as local rivals to OpenAI and Nvidia. With MiniMax and Zhipu AI surging after their Hong Kong debuts, are investors spotting the next tech champions or chasing hype?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Big Pharma’s report cards just rewrote the market mood. Market View dives into why Pfizer slipped into a quarterly loss, why Novo Nordisk plunged double digits, and how Merck managed to buck the trend. We also unpack Singtel’s rally on acquisition chatter and what it signals for Singapore’s telco strategy. Across the Pacific, tech stocks drag Wall Street lower as Nvidia and Microsoft weigh on the NASDAQ. Plus, our UP or DOWN game covers PayPal, PepsiCo, Walmart and Intel’s GPU ambitions. All this and more, hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Danielle Lim, author of The Sound of S-C-H, joins READ with Michelle Martin to discuss the newly reissued edition of her Singapore literature prize-winning book that chronicled her uncle’s life with schizophrenia and her mother’s years of caregiving. She reflects on who Uncle Seng was beyond his illness, the memories that stayed with her across decades, and how stigma in 1960s and 70s Singapore shaped her family’s silence and survival. Danielle also explains how conversations around mental illness have evolved since the book’s first release. At its heart, this is a story about dignity, endurance, and what families carry when illness becomes part of everyday life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Money and Me unpacks why global investors may be hedging U.S. exposure rather than fleeing it outright, even as the dollar weakens and trade tensions simmer. Our guest, John Sidawi, Senior Portfolio Manager for Global Fixed Income at Federated Hermes explains how currency hedging has become a core strategy after years of unhedged U.S. outperformance. We explore what a softer dollar could mean for the greenback’s long-term dominance. Gold’s surge toward record highs - and its sudden drop - raises questions about whether this is a buying opportunity or a warning sign. Attention also turns to President Trump’s pick for Fed Chair and what that could mean for rates and markets. This episode connects geopolitics, currencies and commodities - hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Disney beats earnings but warns of falling tourist demand, sending its shares sharply lower. Costs are eating into some of the Disney magic. Meanwhile, Elon Musk is building a super stock story. Elon Musk has stunned investors by merging his AI and space ventures ahead of a blockbuster IPO. Wall Street swings higher as gold and silver slump after their recent wild ride. We look closely at trade deals heats up with new US-India and EU-India deals reshaping global flows. Market View unpacks earnings, geopolitics and volatility - hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Markets are flashing warning lights - and investors are wondering if the rules have changed. Gold and silver tumble after a near-vertical rally as politics collides with monetary policy. We unpack why Microsoft fell despite beating earnings and whether its OpenAI bet is turning from moat into risk. Japan’s bond yields surge to multi-decade highs, reviving fears of a yen carry trade unwind. Simon Ree, Founder of Tao of Trading, explains what traders are watching across metals, tech, and currencies. All this and more, hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Big Pharma goes global, precious metals go vertical - then crash, and Wall Street braces for a new Fed era. Market View tracks AstraZeneca’s New York debut and what it signals about the race between the US and China for drug innovation. Gold and silver suffer their worst rout in decades after news of Kevin Warsh as Donald Trump’s pick for Fed chair. US stocks wobble as investors reassess rate-cut risks and a packed earnings week led by Disney, Amazon and Alphabet. Back home, Singapore’s STI holds the 4,900 line with United Overseas Land, ST Engineering and Wilmar in focus. All that and more, hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang. Hear about : AstraZeneca, Nio, Sony, UOB, Amgen, Merck, Pfizer, Palantir, Disney, Alphabet, Uber, Amazon, ST Engineering, Wilmar InternationalSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apple and Marina Bay Sands just delivered blowout results - but not all markets are celebrating. Apple posts its best iPhone quarter in years as China demand rebounds and services face pressure. Marina Bay Sands clocks the strongest quarter in casino history, even as its parent struggles with Macau exposure. Copper surges to record highs and oil jumps above US$70 as geopolitics and China optimism drive commodities. Microsoft sinks on AI spending fears while Meta jumps on strong earnings and cost discipline. All this and more, hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It used to be the good old reliable way to grow wealth, but is it time to look away from this old favourite? As concentration risk hits record highs, one dividend investor says the S&P 500 is no longer the “safe default.” Willie Keng of Dividend Titan explains why valuations look disconnected from reality - and what he uses instead to judge fair value. We explore three unexpected alternatives: Hershey in the US, Lendlease REIT in Singapore, and Indonesian brewer Multi Bintang. From cocoa prices to commercial property and emerging market dividends, this episode challenges passive investing assumptions. All this and more, hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You think you’re diversified… but what if you’re just betting on the same seven tech stocks again and again? The so-called Magnificent Seven now dominate both US and global indices, quietly shaping returns for anyone holding “broad” ETFs. We examine whether global diversification is becoming important again as big institutional players like Vanguard cut back on UK exposure and also talk about the rise and rise of gold. Has one of our best known commentators changed his long-standing tactical view on the metal? Michelle Martin speaks with Arun Pai, Associate Partner at Monk’s Hill Ventures, about how to spot unintended exposure and what a smarter diversification strategy really looks like, hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Big Tech earnings are splitting the market right down the middle - Meta soars, Microsoft stumbles, and investors are asking whether AI spending is starting to bite. Big Tech earnings dominate today’s Market View as Meta and Microsoft head in sharply different directions. Meta delivers blockbuster results, with fourth-quarter revenue jumping 24% and investors cheering its confidence to ramp up AI investment - even with spending set to surge this year. Microsoft, meanwhile, beats expectations but unsettles markets by flagging slower cloud growth, triggering a sell-off despite strong headline numbers. The earnings picture widens with our UP or DOWN round: Tesla grapples with its weakest annual profit since the pandemic, Starbucks shows signs of a long-awaited turnaround, while SK Hynix and Samsung ride relentless demand for AI-driven memory and chips. Markets zoom out as the S&P 500 briefly tops 7,000 before retreating, with the U.S. Federal Reserve holding rates steady under continued pressure from President Donald Trump. We end back home in Singapore, tracking STI movers and new SGX board lot changes, before closing with a cultural curveball - the Grammys! K-pop is entering the fray and Michelle shares her pick for an artist who signals a deeper shift from spectacle to substance. Hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bad news is piling up, yet markets keep climbing - so which signal should investors trust? Gold surges past US$5,000 an ounce as investors hedge against trade wars, political risk and warnings of a looming “capital war” from Ray Dalio. Elon Musk claims robots will outnumber humans and could make up most of Tesla’s long-term value, even as the car business faces slowing deliveries and rising competition. We ask whether stock prices are rising because the economy is healing - or simply because the dollar is weakening. With US market concentration at record highs, what does this mean for portfolios heavily exposed to American equities? Michelle Martin speaks with Swapnil Mishra, author of Investing for the Clueless, Reckless and Overly Cautious, about whether this is resilience, illusion, or the start of a structural shift See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From aircraft crises to AI cables and a surprise trade pact, markets are being pulled in very different directions at once. Boeing’s earnings revive hopes of a turnaround as deliveries improve after years of safety and production failures, though investors remain cautious. We size up corporate winners and losers in an UP or DOWN round, with General Motors and UPS showing resilience while UnitedHealth’s outlook weighs on sentiment. Attention shifts to geopolitics as India and the European Union seal a landmark free trade agreement that could reshape supply chains and export flows. In tech and industry, Corning’s multibillion-dollar AI data-centre deal contrasts with Meta’s risky push into paid social media subscriptions. Singapore stocks break new ground as the STI hits fresh highs led by banks and property names, while Micron’s US$24 billion expansion anchors the island’s semiconductor ambitions, hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang. Hear aboutBoeing, General Motors, UPS, UnitedHealth, Corning, Meta, Puma, Anta Sports, Micron, DBS, OCBC, UOL, Jardine Matheson, Wilmar International.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michelle Martin asks if falling interest rates are changing the maths for Singapore’s savers who love hoarding cash. With billions still parked in T-Bills and money-market funds, investors now face a new risk: opportunity cost. Michelle speaks with Afdhal Rahman of OCBC about what could trigger a shift from cash into equities, bonds and gold. They unpack why Asia ex-Japan may look more attractive than the US as the dollar weakens and valuations diverge. The conversation also explores how bonds are becoming income engines again, and why gold is moving from hedge to strategy. What happens when staying on the sidelines costs more than riding out volatility. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A brutal US winter storm knocks out power, freezes gas production and sends energy prices - and energy stocks - sharply higher. Gold smashes through US$5,000 an ounce as the US dollar weakens, pushing investors toward precious metals and currency hedges. Unexpected winners emerge on the SGX, with pawnshop operator MoneyMax riding the gold rally. In corporate news, Nvidia edges closer to overtaking Apple as TSMC’s top customer, while CoreWeave surges on fresh AI investment. Back home, Singapore banks weigh on the STI as Wilmar shines, highlighting sector rotation in local markets. Market View unpacks what extreme weather, soaring commodities and shifting tech leadership mean for investors - hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang. Hear about : Nvidia · Apple · CoreWeave · Cheniere Energy · Excelerate Energy · Quanta Services · MoneyMax Financial Services · Mapletree Logistics Trust · OUE REIT · UOB · DBS · OCBC · Wilmar InternationalSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today Michelle picks up a thought-provoking book by a serial British entrepreneur Gary Ashworth. The book unpacks a simple framework; what if becoming rich wasn’t about genius or luck - but about repeating one maths movement, ten times? Michelle Martin speaks with self-made multi-millionaire and author Gary Ashworth about his “Double Up” wealth framework. The conversation explores responsible leverage, three-year wealth cycles, and why starting small doesn’t mean thinking small. Money and Me is hosted by Michelle Martin, and this episode reveals how patience, structure, and psychology shape long-term financial freedom. 3 High-Impact Insights: Wealth grows through repeatable maths, not one big win - what if doubling capital consistently became your new north star? Value is created, not found: improving assets is as important as buying them cheaply. Time and psychology matter as much as money - most people fail because they hesitate about getting started. No journey is perfect. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

United Overseas Bank has surged back into favour as investors reassess Singapore’s banking sector after months of caution. Michelle Martin and Ryan Huang unpack why UOB’s provisioning fears have eased and what rising target prices signal for bank valuations. They examine JPMorgan’s “sell list” and what it reveals about pockets of risk in an otherwise resilient market. The conversation widens to US markets, where Intel’s plunge and a heavy earnings calendar - from Apple to Tesla - shape sentiment. In UP or DOWN, they assess developments at TikTok, Berkshire Hathaway, USA Rare Earth and Frasers Centrepoint Trust. Market View is hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang. Join the conversation, featuring companies including UOB, DBS, OCBC, Intel, Apple, Microsoft, Meta, Tesla, Berkshire Hathaway, TikTok and Yangzijiang Shipbuilding.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Intel beats earnings - but supply bottlenecks spook markets. We unpack why Intel sold off despite stronger revenue, and what supply constraints signal for the chip cycle. From semiconductors to staples, Procter & Gamble bets on premium pricing with luxury diapers - is pricing power holding up? US inflation stays sticky at 2.8%, reshaping expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts and equity valuations. Markets rally as tariff threats fade, with investors choosing policy relief over economic caution. UP or DOWN on Ubisoft, JPMorgan Chase, Suntec REIT, and City Developments Limited - hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Markets are rattled by geopolitics - but panic is rarely a strategy. From US military action in Venezuela to tensions over Greenland, investors are questioning whether uncertainty now warrants a shift in portfolios. We examine how US equities have actually behaved through geopolitical shocks - and what history suggests about staying invested. The Magnificent 7 start the year unevenly, raising the question of whether leadership is broadening beyond mega-cap tech into SMID caps. A weaker US dollar prompts a closer look at currency exposure in global portfolios - risk, opportunity, or both? With noise rising across geopolitics and policy, we ask the hardest question: sit in cash, or stay the course? Hosted by Michelle Martin. Guest: Cheng Chye Hsern, Head of Investment, Providend.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A 140-year-old healthcare giant shows it can still grow, as Johnson & Johnson beats earnings expectations and doubles down on its ambition to lead the global fight against cancer. On geopolitics, markets rebound after U.S. President Donald Trump walks back tariff threats tied to Greenland, reframing the issue around mineral rights and strategic access instead. We unpack whether this is real policy clarity - or another case of TACO economics - as U.S. stocks rally on relief. In UP or DOWN, we look at L’Oréal’s big bet on Indian beauty tech, Lululemon’s brand stumble with squat-failing tights, Ryanair’s monetisation of controversy, and whether CDL is poised for a catch-up trade. Back home, the STI tests key support as only a handful of blue chips finish in the green. And in our Last Word, a tool-using cow in Austria challenges what we think we know about intelligence - in markets, and in life - hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is leaving your CPF alone the safest option in 2026 or are there smarter moves for more than 2.5% interest? As Singapore’s retirement rules shift, what do you need to know about the moves that you can make for greater savings and smaller tax bills. With new dollar-for-dollar government matching schemes, the roadmap to retirement offers new possibilities regardless of paycheck size. We break down how the RSTU, MRSS and the newly launched MMSS actually work - and who benefits most. From withdrawal rules at 55 to whether CPF LIFE truly delivers a paycheck for life, we tackle listeners’ most pressing questions. We also explore how to prioritise top-ups for yourself versus your parents, and where spare cash should go now that SA rules have changed. A practical, clear-eyed guide to building retirement income with confidence - hosted by Michelle Martin with guest Boo Chiang Tat, Manager, Retirement Savings Department, CPF Board.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A nation’s birth story, revisited through freshly released interviews. A major new book and permanent exhibition at the National Library reopens the story of Singapore’s separation from Malaysia in 1965. The Albatross File: Inside Separation draws on newly declassified Cabinet papers, handwritten notes by Dr Goh Keng Swee, and oral history accounts to examine what was long seen as a sudden rupture. Joining the conversation is Mr Janadas Devan, Senior Adviser to the Ministry of Digital Development and Information, who coordinated the creation of the book. We explore why these records are being released now, what Singaporeans still misunderstand about separation, and how negotiated settlement differs from the idea of forced expulsion. The discussion humanises the leaders involved and political pressures on both sides of the divide. Hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The market looks strong - but only a handful of stocks are doing the lifting. As 2026 begins, investors are grappling with a big question: can mega-cap dominance last, or is leadership finally starting to broaden? With just 10% of the S&P 500 driving gains, valuation gaps are widening even as market breadth quietly improves. We explore whether easing rates, broader earnings, and capital rotation are setting the stage for SMID-cap companies to step into the spotlight. The conversation digs into AI’s shift from infrastructure to application, separating real earnings leverage from hype. We also assess how new US tax incentives are shaping corporate behaviour - and whether small- and mid-cap fundamentals are truly recovering. Joining the discussion is Ann Miletti, Head of Equity Investments and Chief Diversity Officer at Allspring Global Investments, hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From Netflix’s earnings pop to a bond-market shock out of Tokyo - markets are suddenly on edge. Netflix posts a near-30% jump in quarterly profits, but shares slide as investors digest higher content spending and a massive all-cash bid for Warner Bros., aimed at outflanking Paramount. We zoom out to Wall Street’s sharp sell-off as geopolitical tensions flare and volatility spikes. Then to Japan, where a sudden bond rout rattles global markets and raises fears of contagion beyond Tokyo. Billionaire investor Ray Dalio warns of looming “capital wars” as foreign holders rethink US Treasuries. Plus: UP or DOWN on United Airlines, Pop Mart, Busy Ming, Indonesia stocks - and a surprising airline angle tied to weight-loss drugs, hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Asia’s markets are flashing mixed signals - so how is a smart investor to think through where to really place money? Michelle Martin unpacks Morningstar’s Q1 2026 Asia Investment Outlook with Lorraine Tan, cutting through the noise on growth, rates and risk.From AI-driven earnings to valuation support - what’s real, what’s hype, and where the cracks could form. We zoom in on fund flows, asset allocation shifts, and how China and Japan are shaping the regional picture. Plus four Singapore stocks in focus - Singtel, StarHub, ST Engineering and SIA - and what investors should actually watch for next. Finally, we talk portfolio anchors, red flags, and how to balance opportunity with defence in the year ahead - hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Markets are wobbling as geopolitics heats up - and investors are heading for cover. Asia-Pacific stocks slide as US–Europe tensions flare over Greenland and fresh tariff threats. European equities retreat while safe havens shine, with gold and silver near record highs. A Hong Kong billionaire’s call to put 20% into gold raises eyebrows - is this a regime shift? Back home, Frasers Centrepoint Trust weighs JB competition as the RTS Link nears reality.Plus UP or DOWN on HSBC, Stellantis, De Beers and IJM, the STI check-in, and Hollywood’s sequel-heavy 2026 - hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Asia’s tech story may be entering a very different growth phase - and it’s not all about AI. Michelle Martin and Ryan Huang unpack Macquarie’s bullish call on Asia internet stocks driven by gaming, music, super-apps and cultural exports. From K-pop giant HYBE to platforms like Tencent, Baidu and Kakao, the focus shifts to monetising ecosystems people already live on. The duo also examine Bernstein’s bullish bet on BYD - not just as a carmaker, but a vertically integrated tech play. Global tensions rise as President Trump revives trade war threats against Europe, while earnings season heats up in the US. All this and more, including Intel, Micron and Singapore market movers - hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our company in focus list, zeroes in on companies we here know about in Singapore. In 2026, it’s no longer about whether markets rise - it’s about which companies truly deliver.Money and Me looks past daily noise to uncover businesses entering pivotal turning points across sectors.. Hosted by Michelle Martin, this episode features Vance Tan, Financial Services Manager, PhillipCapital, on spotting durable value beyond headlines. We explore how to identify companies with real structural tailwinds versus short-term hype and headline-driven rallies. The discussion dives into balance sheet strength, non-negotiable financial metrics, and valuation discipline in a still-uneven market. Finally, we break down how investors can turn high-conviction ideas into diversified, long-term portfolio strategies without overconcentration. Will STI hit 5000 in 2026?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The discussion looks at chips surging and banks cashing in. Asia-Pacific markets trade mixed as investors weigh TSMC’s blockbuster earnings against fresh US-Taiwan trade developments. We unpack what Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company’s profit jump says about the durability of the AI trade and global chip supply chains. Wall Street steadies as Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley deliver strong earnings, powered by trading and wealth management. In UP or DOWN, we size up Spotify’s price hike, Boston Scientific’s mega-deal, and CapitaLand India Trust’s data-centre push. And in our Last Word, we ask what authenticity means when a very unusual singer with no soul climbs Spotify’s charts - hosted by Michelle Martin with Ryan Huang.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Singapore REITs may finally be turning the corner. Singapore REITs enter 2026 at a pivotal moment say's Kenny Loh, as interest-rate cuts revive sentiment and valuations remain below historical averages. After delivering a near-23% gain in 2025 - their best run since 2019 - analysts expect a two-year earnings upgrade cycle driven by falling borrowing costs and rising distributions. We unpack which REITs face refinancing risks, how balance sheets are being managed, and where higher interest coverage offers protection. From industrial and logistics to retail, offices and data centres, we assess which property sub-sectors look resilient - and which still face headwinds. We also ask whether current price-to-NAV discounts present compelling entry points, or if markets are still pricing in too much caution. Joining us is Kenny Loh, REIT Specialist and Wealth Advisory Director, as we discuss strategy, risks and specific S-REITs on the radar for 2026, hosted by Michelle Martin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.