Finance Updates: Ringgit nears RM3 per Singapore dollar, but cross-border spending by Singaporeans holds steady

Source:

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/malaysian-ringgit-singapore-dollar-travel-currency-5958446

ChatGPT:

The Malaysian ringgit has strengthened significantly against the Singapore dollar, rising from a low of about RM3.55 per SGD to around RM3.10, and analysts say it could soon approach RM3.00. Despite the stronger currency, Singaporeans continue to spend actively in Malaysia, with little sign that cross-border spending has slowed.

For individuals who regularly travel or live across the Causeway in Johor Bahru, the impact has been noticeable but manageable. For example, a Singaporean couple renting an apartment there saw their monthly expenses rise slightly as the ringgit appreciated. Their combined rent, car loan and daily expenses total about RM5,700, equivalent to roughly S$1,860, around S$200 more than when the exchange rate was more favourable. However, they say the stronger ringgit mainly requires better budgeting rather than major lifestyle changes.

Others who visit occasionally report only minor increases in costs. One Singaporean who travels monthly to Johor Bahru estimated the stronger ringgit adds roughly S$12 per outing, a relatively small increase for activities such as food, transport and entertainment.

Data from cross-border payment platforms supports these experiences. Revolut reported that conversions from Singapore dollars to ringgit increased steadily through 2025, with January 2026 transactions up nearly 42% year-on-year. Similarly, YouTrip said both transaction volumes and spending amounts have grown. According to YouTrip, Singaporeans tend to convert money quickly when the rate hits around RM3.30 per SGD, suggesting users are becoming more strategic about locking in exchange rates.

Analysts say the ringgit’s rise is driven largely by global factors, particularly expectations around US interest rates and broader currency movements, rather than major differences between the Singapore and Malaysian economies. The ringgit also had room to rebound after being previously undervalued.

Looking ahead, forecasts suggest the rate could reach RM3.00–RM3.05 per SGD by mid-2026, though currency movements remain sensitive to global economic conditions.

Comments:

Come on SGD! Be Strong! 😏

Rewards Updates: Best Credit Cards to Use For Atome (2026)

Source:

https://sethisfy.com/best-credit-cards-atome/

ChatGPT:

Atome has become a popular Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) app in Singapore, allowing users to split purchases into three interest-free monthly payments. Besides improving cash flow, it can also help users maximise credit card rewards if paired with the right cards.

One advantage of Atome is that transactions typically code as MCC 5999 (miscellaneous retail) and are processed as online transactions. This makes it easier to use credit cards that offer bonus rewards for online spending. Another benefit is that purchases are automatically split into three payments, which helps users stay within monthly spending caps on reward cards. Atome also offers discount vouchers, reward points, and competitive foreign exchange rates for overseas purchases.

Best credit cards confirmed to work with Atome

Some cards reliably earn rewards on Atome transactions:

• DBS Live Fresh Card – Up to 6% cashback (with S$800 monthly spend; cashback capped at S$50).

• HSBC Revolution Credit Card – 4 miles per dollar on online/contactless payments (up to S$1,500 spend monthly).

Other cards commonly used with Atome

These cards typically reward online spending and have been reported to work, though users must manually trigger the second and third instalment payments in the Atome app to ensure they are treated as online transactions:

• Citi Rewards Mastercard – 4 miles per dollar on up to S$1,000 spend (Visa version reportedly does not work).

• DBS Woman’s World Card – 4 miles per dollar on up to S$1,000 monthly online spend.

• KrisFlyer UOB Credit Card – 1.2–2.4 miles per dollar, depending on annual spending with Singapore Airlines.

Cards that might work

Cards such as OCBC FRANK Credit Card, DCS Flex Card, Maybank Platinum Visa Card, and SAFRA DBS Credit Card may reward Atome payments, though user reports are limited.

Cards to avoid

Several **UOB cards — including UOB EVOL, UOB One, and UOB Preferred Platinum Visa — reportedly do not give rewards, as Atome transactions may be classified as instalment plans.

Overall, Atome can help maximise miles or cashback by splitting payments, earning additional points, and enabling bonus rewards on online transactions when paired with the right credit cards.

Comments:

Good information.

Food Updates: These instant noodles went viral on TikTok, but is it worth the hype? We find out.

Source:

https://mothership.sg/2026/03/jin-mai-lang-noodles/

ChatGPT:

A viral instant noodle brand from China, Jin Mai Lang, has been gaining attention on TikTok after creators reviewed its wide variety of flavours. Known as one of China’s most popular noodle makers, the brand offers a “Food Tour” series inspired by regional Chinese dishes, allowing consumers to sample diverse flavours from across China in convenient instant noodle form.

One key feature that differentiates Jin Mai Lang noodles from many traditional instant noodles is its non-fried production method. Instead of deep-frying, the noodles are air-dried and heat-dried to remove moisture. This process reduces greasiness and fat content, resulting in a cleaner taste. A simple indicator of this difference is that Jin Mai Lang noodles tend to sink in water, whereas typical fried instant noodles float due to absorbed oil. The noodles also have a firmer, more elastic texture that resembles fresh handmade noodles.

Several flavours were tested by reviewers, colleagues, and family members. The Shanxi Dao Xiao Mian (classic pork flavour) stood out for its umami pork broth and tangy vinegar packet, creating a savoury yet light soup. The Shanghai Scallion Oil (dry noodles) impressed with its fragrant scallion aroma, caramelised onion notes, and soy-based seasoning, making it a favourite among dry noodle lovers.

For those who enjoy spice, Anhui Ban Mian (spicy beef) delivered a balanced heat and rich beef flavour, while Chongqing Xiao Mian (spicy mala) provided a numbing mala kick with crunchy fried soybeans. Reviewers praised the springy texture of the noodles and the lingering flavour of the broth.

The brand also offers halal-certified options, including Hot & Sour Vermicelli, Tomato and Egg, and Seafood Soup flavours. These provide lighter, tangy, or umami soups suitable for different dietary needs.

Currently available on online platforms like Shopee, TikTok Shop, and Lazada, Jin Mai Lang noodles can also be found at selected Sheng Siong and Prime supermarkets in Singapore, with FairPrice expected to stock them soon.

Comments:

Interesting instant noodles. Might try it.

Investing Updates: What to Expect in the Week Ahead (CPI, Core PCE, and Earnings from ORCL, NIO, ADBE, and DKS)

Source:

https://www.moomoo.com/news/post/66547765/what-to-expect-in-the-week-ahead-cpi-core-pce?level=1&data_ticket=1772949895111202

ChatGPT:

The upcoming week will be dominated by key inflation data and several high-profile corporate earnings reports, which could influence expectations for U.S. Federal Reserve rate cuts. Investors are closely watching whether inflation is cooling enough for the Fed to keep potential rate reductions on the table.

The main macro catalyst arrives on Wednesday with the release of February’s Consumer Price Index (CPI). Economists expect headline inflation to rise slightly but forecast core CPI to slow to around 0.19% month-on-month, down from 0.30% previously. If the data confirms continued disinflation, it could support market expectations for policy easing later this year.

Friday’s release of January core Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) inflation—the Fed’s preferred gauge—is expected to show a hotter reading of about 0.40% month-on-month, pushing the annual rate to roughly 3.1%. However, markets may downplay this backward-looking data if the more recent CPI reading suggests inflation pressures are easing.

Other economic indicators include Tuesday’s NFIB Small Business Optimism index and existing home sales, which are expected to soften to about 3.84 million annualized. Thursday’s initial jobless claims should remain low, indicating limited layoffs even as hiring demand softens.

Corporate earnings will also drive market sentiment. Electric-vehicle maker Nio will be evaluated on progress toward profitability and margin improvement. Oracle’s report will be scrutinized for growth in its cloud infrastructure business and whether artificial-intelligence demand can accelerate revenue without hurting margins.

Later in the week, Dick’s Sporting Goods will provide insight into consumer demand and retail trends, while Adobe’s results will test whether its generative-AI features are translating into stronger subscription growth.

Overall, with multiple economic releases and earnings reports concentrated mid-week onward, traders are expected to stay cautious and tactical, focusing on highly liquid sectors such as AI technology, semiconductors, and crypto-related stocks while monitoring potential sector rotations.

Comments:

Another volatile week due to war? 😓

Investing Updates: First home-grown gold ETF to list on SGX on Mar 26

Source:

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/first-home-grown-gold-etf-list-sgx-mar-26

ChatGPT:

Singapore will soon see its first home-grown physical gold exchange-traded fund (ETF) when the Singapore Exchange lists the LionGlobal Singapore Physical Gold ETF on Mar 26, 2026. This marks the first gold ETF listing on SGX in about 20 years, reflecting renewed investor interest in gold amid global uncertainty.

The ETF is issued by Lion Global Investors, a subsidiary of Great Eastern Holdings and part of the OCBC group. It will trade in both Singapore dollars (SGD) and US dollars (USD) under tickers GLS and GLU respectively.

The initial offer period runs from Mar 6 to Mar 20, during which investors can subscribe through several brokerages. Participating dealers include DBS Vickers Securities, iFAST Financial, Lim & Tan Securities, Maybank Securities, Moomoo, OCBC Securities, Phillip Securities, and Tiger Brokers Singapore. OCBC customers can also subscribe via ATMs and its digital banking platforms.

The ETF will be backed by physical gold stored and insured in Singapore, offering investors a cost-efficient way to gain exposure to gold without directly holding bullion. It aims to closely track the London Bullion Market Association Gold Price AM benchmark and will invest in LBMA Good Delivery gold bars, which meet strict industry standards.

The launch follows the December 2025 debut of the LionGlobal Singapore Physical Gold Fund, which has already accumulated S$502.2 million in assets under management.

Gold demand has surged recently as investors seek safe-haven assets amid macroeconomic uncertainty and currency volatility. Strong central bank buying and investor demand pushed gold prices to a record US$5,597.23 per ounce on Jan 29, 2026.

Lion Global Investors said the ETF listing represents a natural step in expanding access to physical gold investments in Singapore, particularly as traditional asset allocations face increasing challenges.

Comments:

Nice to have an additional Gold ETF in SGX.

Good for Singaporean investors who are mindful on geo-political risks and estate tax.

Will be thinking through on either owning this or GSD.SI as part of portfolio.

Investing Updates: Singdollar weakens more than 1% against the US dollar as Iran conflict sparks safe-haven flight

Source:

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/capital-markets-currencies/singdollar-weakens-more-1-against-us-dollar-iran-conflict-sparks-safe-haven-flight

ChatGPT:

The Singapore dollar has weakened more than 1% against the US dollar following an escalation in Middle East tensions, after US and Israeli strikes on Iran triggered a global flight to safe-haven assets. As of Mar 4, the SGD/USD pair was trading at 0.7824, down 1.1% over five days, while USD/SGD stood at 1.278.

Broad US dollar strength was driven by its safe-haven appeal and concerns that rising oil prices could stoke inflation, reducing the likelihood of US Federal Reserve rate cuts this year. The US dollar index climbed close to the psychological 100 level, peaking at 99.7 before easing slightly.

DBS economists noted that Singapore’s markets saw risk-off but contained movements, with the Straits Times Index down 1.6%. They added that Singapore enters this period of uncertainty from a relatively strong position, supported by solid growth momentum, AI-driven tailwinds and low inflation at the start of 2026.

Analysts suggest the US dollar rally may be overstretched. After encountering resistance near 100, investors pared long positions. UOB expects USD/SGD to consolidate between 1.273 and 1.281 in the near term, with a possible move towards 1.285 in the coming weeks.

Brent crude surged 15% in a week to around US$81 per barrel amid concerns over the Strait of Hormuz, which handles about 20% of global oil flows. For Singapore, higher oil prices pose risks of imported inflation and rising business costs, with about 7% of its CPI basket directly affected by sustained energy spikes.

While regional currencies like the baht and peso have been hit harder, the Singdollar may show relative resilience given its safe-haven characteristics.

Comments:

Don't think there's a need to panic yet.

SG market remains strong enough for a good growth year.

Gaming Updates: Indie World Showcase 3.3.2026

Source:

https://www.youtube.com/live/1DCtXFrB9OE

Comments:

Nice showcase. Thumbs down to exclusives 👎

LifeStyle Updates: Why HDB Needs To Start Building Bigger Flats For “Large Families”

Source:

https://dollarsandsense.sg/why-hdb-needs-to-start-building-bigger-flats-for-large-families/

ChatGPT:

The article argues that Singapore should start building larger HDB flats to better support “large families” with three or more children, as part of broader efforts to address the country’s persistently low fertility rate. During Budget 2025, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong introduced the Large Families Scheme, while in Budget 2026, MP David Hoe proposed a new “jumbo BTO flat” with extra bedroom space.

Although Housing & Development Board (HDB) already offers 5-room and 3Gen flats, flat combinations, and priority schemes for families with three or more children, the average size of 5-room flats has stayed at about 110 sqm since 1997. This is despite changes in household structures and living needs. Official data shows that while average household size has declined, the absolute number of large households (five or more persons) has remained broadly stable over the past decades. The fall in average household size is mainly due to rapid growth in smaller households, not a disappearance of large families.

Census data further reveals that households with five or more members are far more likely to live in homes larger than 120 sqm, yet most newer HDB flats fall below this threshold. Large families also have significantly less living space per person. For example, a five-person household in a typical 5-room flat has around 22 sqm per person, roughly half the space enjoyed by a single person in a 2-room unit.

The article concludes that housing design matters for family formation. If Singapore is serious about encouraging larger families, policies should go beyond incentives and priorities, and include building genuinely larger flats that are more conducive to raising children.

Comments:

Agree that I need bigger flats 😏

Investing Updates: What to Expect in the Week Ahead (Nonfarm Payrolls, and Earnings from CrowdStrike, Broadcom and Marvell)

Source:

https://www.moomoo.com/news/post/66197665/what-to-expect-in-the-week-ahead-nonfarm-payrolls-and?level=1&data_ticket=1772415306293138

ChatGPT:

Markets head into the new week focused on whether softer economic data reflects temporary disruptions or deeper shifts tied to AI-driven change. Last week’s selloff in AI-linked stocks was sparked by a widely circulated sell-side note warning of potential large-scale white-collar layoffs, reviving fears that automation could weigh on employment. This drove a rally in bonds as investors reassessed growth and rate expectations.

The key macro event will be February US Nonfarm Payrolls on Friday. Payroll growth is expected to slow sharply—down about 30,000 from January’s surprisingly strong figure—but economists largely blame late-January and early-February cold weather rather than structural labor-market weakness. Markets will read the report closely for implications on Federal Reserve policy. Earlier in the week, ISM Manufacturing and Services PMIs are expected to show continued expansion, albeit at a slower pace, reinforcing a narrative of cooling but resilient growth.

Earnings are another major driver. On Tuesday, CrowdStrike, Target, and Best Buy report. Retailers are expected to show slowing profits and margin pressure amid uncertain tariffs and soft consumer demand. Analysts warn Best Buy could miss EPS expectations due to weak demand, market share erosion, and memory-chip shortages.

Wednesday brings results from Broadcom, where margins are expected to support a modest EPS beat as AI-driven semiconductor revenue surges. On Thursday, Costco and Marvell Technology report. Marvell’s growth is moderating from explosive highs but remains strong relative to peers, with guidance pointing to sustainable expansion and potential post-earnings upside.

Overall, the week balances AI optimism against valuation concerns, cooling data, and uncertainty over whether massive AI investment can deliver commensurate returns.

Comments:

Iran war will add to uncertainty this week.

World Peace pls 💖

Entertainment Updates: Pokémon Store Plunged Into Chaos Over 30th Anniversary Pikachu Plush As Fans Blame Scalpers

Source:

https://kotaku.com/pokemon-30th-anniversary-pikachu-plush-scalpers-2000674775

ChatGPT:

Chaos erupted at several Pokémon Centers in Japan following the release of a limited-edition Pikachu plush celebrating Pokémon’s 30th anniversary. On February 27, 2026, fans rushed to obtain a monochrome, Game Boy–inspired Pikachu plush unveiled as part of the anniversary merchandise by The Pokémon Company. The frenzy was especially intense at the Tokyo Bay Poké Center, where a lack of ticketing or queue controls reportedly led to crowd surges from multiple entrances.

Videos shared on X captured scenes described by eyewitnesses as “total war,” with shoppers pushing, shouting, and scrambling for the plushies. One user recounted children crying after being struck amid the crush, while another video showed staff attempting to control the situation with a megaphone outside the store. Similar overcrowding was reported at Pokémon Centers in Yokohama and Osaka, suggesting the issue was widespread rather than isolated.

Many fans blamed scalpers for fueling the panic, arguing that resellers snapping up limited items have worsened crowd behaviour and made it harder for genuine collectors to buy merchandise fairly. The incident reignited long-standing frustrations within the Pokémon fan community over scalping, particularly in Japan’s collectibles and trading card market.

Less than a day after the incidents, The Pokémon Company announced that the anniversary Pikachu plush would be made available for online purchase in the near future, easing concerns that fans had permanently missed out. This move was widely welcomed as a way to reduce pressure on physical stores.

The chaos contrasts with recent signs of cooling demand in Japan’s Pokémon resale market, where some card shops have reportedly closed due to declining sales, raising speculation that the long-running “Pokémon bubble” may be deflating. Observers hope the anniversary turmoil proves to be an exception driven by celebratory hype, rather than a return to routine scarcity and reseller-driven disorder.

Comments:

Aiyo it's just collectibles mah... 😌