Entertainment Updates: 'Not financial advice': How new content creation guidelines could shake up Singapore's finfluencing landscape

Source:

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/finfluencer-sg-budget-babe-sethisfy-kelvin-learns-investing-chocolate-finance-octafx-5389336

ChatGPT:

Singapore’s Monetary Authority (MAS) and the Advertising Standards Authority (ASAS) have introduced new guidelines for responsible financial content, effective March 25, 2026, following past controversies such as unlicensed trading platform promotions and the Chocolate Finance saga. These rules aim to curb misleading “finfluencer” content and ensure creators avoid giving personalised financial advice or inducing panic and FOMO through posts.

Finfluencers like Seth Wee (Sethisfy), Chris Chong (HoneyMoneySG), and Kelvin Tan said the guidelines reinforce practices they already follow, such as transparency and educational framing over recommendations. Chong plans to stress that financial advice should not be one-size-fits-all, while Tan has toned down sensational content and now avoids risky topics like cryptocurrency.

The guidelines also hold financial institutions accountable for marketing content shared through influencers and state that disclaimers such as “not financial advice” do not remove legal liability. Content creators are urged to disclose sponsorships clearly and balance pros and cons in financial product reviews.

Veteran creators like Aaron Wong (The MileLion) and Dawn Cher (SG Budget Babe) welcomed the changes, saying clearer disclosure is overdue and vital for audience trust. They noted that some lifestyle influencers unknowingly promoted unregulated platforms like Octa due to a lack of due diligence.

MAS recently issued advisory letters to five creators for potentially offering unlicensed advice and warned of future enforcement. Some finfluencers proposed a separate licensing scheme for financial educators. Overall, the industry views the move as necessary to professionalise the space and protect consumers from misleading or risky content.

Food Updates: Amid S’pore’s tough food scene, this vending biz has 120+ machines & offers a new F&B alternative

Source:

https://vulcanpost.com/899197/instachef-hot-meal-vending-machines/

ChatGPT:

InstaChef, created by food tech company Aikit Pte Ltd, is reimagining vending machines as AI-powered mini restaurants. Launched in 2023 after two years of R&D, the company now operates over 120 units across Singapore, including at NUS, offices, and residential areas. Unlike typical reheated vending meals, InstaChef dishes are par-cooked and finished on-demand using induction (5–10 minutes, preserving texture) or microwave heating (2–3 minutes for speed). Meals cost S$5–S$9, ordered on-site or via the InstaChef app, which tracks cooking progress and alerts customers when food is ready.

Aikit’s proprietary ChefGenie AI manages stock levels, hygiene schedules, and menu customization by location to minimize waste—offices tend to get Asian meals, schools more Western items. Hygiene is emphasized, with machines cleaned every two days, or more in busy spots. Each unit carries about 15 dishes, rotated every two to three months, from a pool of 80+ recipes.

Despite growth, customer skepticism remains. To counter this, InstaChef holds tasting events whenever new units launch. Feedback has been positive, with online reviews praising taste and variety. In 2024, InstaChef introduced a franchising programme, now running 30% of its machines. Franchisees focus on locations, while Aikit handles backend operations, offering a low-effort business model.

The brand’s model has drawn attention from Enterprise Singapore (ESG) amid rising F&B closures. In September 2025, ESG launched a pilot at Punggol Digital District with local names like Springleaf Prata and Shihlin Taiwan Street Snacks, using InstaChef machines to expand without heavy overheads.

With five machines already in the U.S., InstaChef aims to prove globally that vending machines can deliver fresh, restaurant-quality meals, shifting perceptions of automated dining.

Investing Updates: Commentary: More uncertainty for Singapore economy after US interest rates cut

Source:

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/commentary/us-fed-cut-interest-rates-singapore-inflation-economy-5385076

ChatGPT:

Singapore’s domestic interest rates have fallen sharply, with the three-month compounded SORA dropping to 1.44 per cent this year, about half of where it should be relative to US policy rates. This divergence reflects strong capital inflows and investor demand for Singapore as a safe haven, buoyed by geopolitical uncertainty and trade risks. Equity returns have also outpaced global benchmarks, adding to abundant liquidity and suppressing borrowing costs.

While the US Federal Reserve cut rates in September and signalled further reductions, local rates may not fall much further. Still, the lower-for-longer environment brings relief to households and businesses. Mortgage rates have declined from peaks of 4.5 per cent in 2022 to below 2.5 per cent, easing repayment burdens and boosting disposable income. Rising asset values also support consumption, though savers may feel the squeeze as deposit rates fall.

For companies, cheaper borrowing encourages expansion, especially in trade-related sectors that are front-loading exports ahead of potential US tariffs. Construction firms and larger corporates benefit most, though SMEs may struggle to access lower rates due to collateral and credit constraints.

Despite these positives, Singapore’s economic outlook remains clouded by external risks. The US faces slowing job growth, sticky inflation, and fears of stagflation, while China remains in deflation. Trade tensions, particularly tariff changes under US President Donald Trump, threaten global demand and complicate business planning.

Domestically, policymakers have expanded financing support and slowed currency appreciation to cushion the economy. However, Singapore’s growth momentum is expected to moderate, with 2026 posing greater uncertainties. Lower interest rates ease short-term strains, but global developments will ultimately shape the city-state’s trajectory.

Investing Updates: What to Expect in the Week Ahead (Earnings from Nike; JOLTS, PMI and Nonfarm Payrolls)

Source:

https://www.moomoo.com/news/post/59068254/what-to-expect-in-the-week-ahead-earnings-from-nike?level=1&data_ticket=1758502671892302

ChatGPT:

The week ahead brings a mix of corporate earnings and key U.S. economic data that could shape market sentiment. Sportswear giant Nike (NKE.US) is set to release Q3 results on September 30 after market close. The stock has rebounded 13.9% this quarter, outpacing its industry peers. Analysts forecast revenue of $10.98 billion, a 5% sequential decline, and EPS of $0.27, down 60% year-on-year. Nike has guided for mid-single-digit sales decreases, with consensus expecting a 7% drop. The company is also contending with $1 billion in additional structural costs from new tariffs. While management is pursuing production shifts and partnerships to mitigate the impact, gross margins could contract by about 75 basis points.

On the macro front, the September nonfarm payrolls report due Friday takes center stage. The release is seen as critical for the Federal Reserve’s policy outlook, as investors currently expect two rate cuts before the end of 2025. Forecasts are highly uncertain, ranging from a contraction of 20,000 to a gain of 100,000 jobs. The report could also face delays if lawmakers fail to avert a potential government shutdown on October 1.

Other major releases include the ISM Manufacturing PMI (Wednesday), expected to tick up to 49.1 from 48.7, and the ISM Services PMI (Friday), projected to remain at 52, indicating modest expansion. Regional Fed surveys suggest mixed signals, with softening demand but improving employment conditions.

Together, Nike’s earnings and a full slate of economic data—led by Friday’s payrolls—will guide market expectations on consumer demand, corporate resilience, and the Fed’s next moves.

Investing Updates: MAS to warn 5 content creators in S’pore who may have given financial advice without a licence

Source:

https://www.straitstimes.com/business/companies-markets/mas-to-warn-5-content-creators-in-spore-who-may-have-given-financial-advice-without-a-licence

ChatGPT:

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) will issue advisory letters to five content creators suspected of offering unlicensed financial advice, marking the first such action against online “finfluencers.” They have been told to adjust their practices or risk enforcement under the Financial Advisers Act, which carries penalties of up to $75,000 in fines or three years’ jail.

The move follows MAS’ release of new guidelines on Sept 25, aimed at promoting responsible online financial content. These guidelines stress encouraging informed decision-making, such as understanding risk tolerance, conducting independent research, and seeking licensed advice. Content creators are urged to highlight budgeting, caution against overspending, and disclose risks as well as rewards. They should avoid exploiting fear of missing out and must prioritize followers’ financial well-being.

MAS clarified that disclaimers like “this is not financial advice” do not remove liability. A licence may be required when recommending products, tailoring advice to individuals, or facilitating trades. Creators are advised to vet collaborations by checking MAS’ Financial Institutions Directory and avoiding entities on its Investor Alert List. Sponsored content must also be disclosed.

The regulator said promotional content must comply with the Singapore Code of Advertising Practice, and financial institutions must ensure their marketing is professional and accurate. Complaints against finfluencers have risen, with eight lodged in 2025 as of April, compared with an average of five annually in previous years.

Industry players welcomed the guidelines. Executives from Beansprout, The Weeblings, and The Financial Coconut said clearer standards will raise industry credibility, protect consumers, and build trust, though some cautioned that even regulated advice has limits.

Opinion:

Don’t take my word for it! 😂
YouTube feels overloaded with ads and flashy clickbait — big headlines, big reactions everywhere. 

I get it, that’s how creators drive views and income. Still, I wish there were a better, less in-your-face way to do it 😛

Investing Updates: SGX to launch index that tracks listcos beyond STI: Chee Hong Tat

Source:

https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/sgx-launch-index-tracks-non-sti-listcos-chee-hong-tat

ChatGPT:

The Singapore Exchange (SGX) will launch a new index to track listed companies beyond the Straits Times Index (STI), said Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) deputy chairman and Minister for National Development Chee Hong Tat on Sept 12. The initiative aims to showcase a broader segment of Singapore’s equity market, given that the STI – comprising the 30 largest firms by market capitalisation – only represents part of SGX’s listed companies.

Chee, who also chairs MAS’ equities review group, explained that the new index will highlight the performance of the next tier of large and liquid companies, focusing on business transformation, governance, and capital management. The move comes alongside a S$5 billion equity market development programme to boost liquidity, complemented by tax incentives for listings and streamlined disclosure processes.

Chee noted growing investor interest in non-STI stocks, and said more indices may follow, covering areas such as corporate governance and sustainability. Indices, he added, act as recognition mechanisms that enhance company visibility and investor awareness. SGX is also working on roadshows, trade fairs, and media features to help smaller companies improve exposure.

However, Chee emphasised that companies must also take responsibility by actively communicating their strategies, growth stories, and long-term plans. Effective communication—through regular updates, media engagement, and forward-looking guidance—builds investor confidence and ultimately drives shareholder value. MAS is reviewing regulatory frameworks to reduce legal concerns around such disclosures.

Industry leaders echoed the call for stronger corporate practices and more proactive investor engagement. SGX executives stressed that unlocking shareholder value and greater transparency are essential to sustaining market growth. Further measures from the review group will be unveiled later this year to support listed companies in strengthening value creation and visibility.

Opinion:

Nice development on local market.

Let's see what this new index is about and whether it's worth considering.

Investing Updates : Jackson Hole Preview: Powell's Moment to Steer Markets

Source : 

https://www.moomoo.com/news/post/57150170/jackson-hole-preview-powell-s-moment-to-steer-markets?level=1&data_ticket=1755137009108042

ChatGPT : 

The Fed’s annual Jackson Hole symposium (Aug 21–23) puts Jerome Powell in focus as markets anticipate guidance on September’s FOMC. Historically, his remarks here have sparked major moves—hawkish in 2022, dovish in 2024. Investors largely expect a 25 bps cut in September, but Powell is unlikely to commit, stressing data dependence. Analysts differ on whether his tone will be neutral, hawkish, or dovish. He may also outline a policy framework shift away from flexible average inflation targeting. Jobs data Sept 5 will be crucial.

Opinion : 

Time flies.

Seemed like yesterday when Janet Yellen was Fed chair.

Chart gives the impression it's just up up up!

Sports Updates : 'It's a different world.' Who strings the racquets at Cincinnati Open tennis tournament?

Source : 

https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/tennis/2025/08/14/cincinnati-open-tennis-racquet-stringers-priority-one-atp-wta-2025/85631622007/

Apple Intelligence : 

At the Cincinnati Open, Nate Ferguson’s company Priority One handles high-pressure racquet stringing for ATP/WTA players, sometimes mid-match. With up to 30 racquets per day per stringer, the team works from early morning to the last match, adjusting string tension for conditions and player preference. Professionals bring their own strings, often natural gut or polyester. Ferguson, who started in 1986 and has strung for legends like Sampras, Federer, and Djokovic, says the job is stressful but rewarding, with his experienced crew operating like a family under tight deadlines.

Opinion : 

Never knew stringing was stressful.

Each sports at the top tiers have unique challenges.

Food Updates : McDonald's Pokémon Card Giveaway Ends Early Amid Restaurant Chaos, Scalping and Widespread Food Waste, as Fans Buy Dozens of Happy Meals Only to Dump Uneaten Burgers

Source : 

https://www.ign.com/articles/mcdonalds-pokmon-card-giveaway-ends-early-amid-restaurant-chaos-scalping-and-widespread-food-waste-as-fans-buy-dozens-of-happy-meals-only-to-dump-uneaten-burgers

ChatGPT : 

McDonald’s Japan ended its Pokémon Happy Meal card giveaway early after overwhelming demand led to chaos, scalping, and massive food waste. Launched 9 Aug 2025 and planned for three days, the promo sold out in under 24 hours despite a five-meal-per-person limit. Fans bought dozens of meals just for the cards, dumping untouched food, sparking arguments, and even police involvement. Packs appeared online at inflated prices, prompting calls for stricter purchase limits to prevent future waste and abuse.

Opinion : 

Give the food to the poor...

Technology Updates : You can hide an AirTag in Skechers’ new kids’ shoes

Source : 

https://www.theverge.com/news/716076/find-my-skechers-shoes-apple-airtag-tracking

ChatGPT : 

Skechers has released a new line of kids' shoes called Find My Skechers, which includes a hidden compartment under the insole designed to securely hold an Apple AirTag. This allows parents to track their children discreetly and safely.

- The AirTag compartment is recessed in the midsole, covered by a fabric liner and screw-in lid, making it tamper-resistant and safer for toddlers.

- The shoes come in multiple styles and sizes for kids from toddlers to age 8.

- There’s no visible branding to indicate an AirTag is inside, making the shoes a covert tracking option.

- Compared to external AirTag accessories, this built-in solution is more secure and less likely to be removed or lost.

It’s a practical option for parents who want added peace of mind while their kids are out and about.

Opinion : 

Interesting idea.

Just not sure if it will make AirTag less durable 😋

Technology Updates : Commentary: More people are considering AI lovers, and we shouldn’t judge

Source : 

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/commentary/ai-chatbot-love-romance-risk-danger-safety-5249426

ChatGPT : 

AI companion apps are gaining popularity, with millions of users forming romantic bonds with chatbots. While critics fear these relationships could harm human intimacy, ethicist Neil McArthur argues they can be healthy, complementary connections rather than replacements. Risks like poor privacy, harmful behavior, or sudden loss of access need regulation, especially for younger users. Public education is key to understanding AI companions without stigma. Human relationships remain irreplaceable, but AI romances offer a safe space to explore emotions and fantasies.

Opinion : 

Robotics romance coming soon just like the movies? 😉

I think it's possible to have this in future, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Westworld_(TV_series)

I think governance and security will be configured more intricately at an individual level, unlike today.

Entertainment Updates : Some S’poreans joke that new tower at MBS looks like a dehumidifier or ‘like a 4th person lurking’

Source : 

https://theindependent.sg/some-sporeans-joke-that-new-tower-at-mbs-looks-like-a-humidifier-or-like-a-4th-person-lurking/

ChatGPT : 

The S$10.3 billion fourth MBS tower was unveiled on July 15, 2025, as part of plans for an “ultra-luxurious resort and entertainment destination” with new amenities for tourists. While architect Moshe Safdie emphasized preserving MBS’s iconic design, locals on Reddit joked that the new tower looks like a “giant dehumidifier,” “Dyson Tower,” or “a fourth person lurking” that disrupts the symmetry of the original three towers.

Some believe Singaporeans will eventually adapt, just as they did with other landmark designs, while others worry it could dilute MBS’s global iconic image.

Investing Updates : CNA Explains: Singapore's tightened crypto licensing rules – 'closing the door' or 'raising the bar'?

Source : 

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/crypto-licensing-mas-cna-explains-5186446

Apple Intelligence : 

• Regulation Target: Unlicensed cryptocurrency firms operating in Singapore that only serve overseas markets.

• Regulation Deadline: June 30.

• Regulation Goal: Closing a loophole and ensuring digital token service providers meet the same standards to bolster trust and align with global anti-money laundering efforts.

• Regulation Impact: Singapore’s Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) is implementing stricter regulations on cryptocurrency firms, impacting both licensed and unlicensed entities.

• Licensing Challenges: While major players like Coinbase and OKX have obtained licenses, smaller firms face difficulties in obtaining licenses and complying with new regulations.

• Industry Response: Larger firms are adapting by relocating staff and operations, while smaller firms may face compliance costs, legal restructuring, or shutdown.

• Impact on Employees: Employees working for digital token firms generally do not have to relocate due to MAS’ stricter rules.

• Industry Reaction: Singapore’s approach to crypto, while not universally embraced, has been consistent.

• Compliance Efforts: Centralized exchanges have implemented enhanced KYC and AML measures to comply with regulations and prevent illicit activities.

• MAS’s Stance on Crypto Businesses: Firms with a substantive presence in Singapore, including servicing local customers, can still obtain licenses.

• Industry Preparation Time: The industry has had sufficient time to prepare for licensing requirements since the Financial Services and Markets Act was passed in April 2022.

• Impact of MAS’s Decision: A small number of providers are affected, and it doesn’t signify hostility towards digital assets but rather emphasizes meeting Singapore’s standards.

Technology Updates : Polyclinic patients to trial AI tool that reads heart rate and blood pressure with just a phone camera

Source : 

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/polyclinic-patients-to-trial-ai-tool-that-reads-heart-rate-and-blood-pressure-with-just-a-phone

Apple Intelligence : 

• AI Tool Functionality: DeepHealthVision uses a phone camera to measure heart rate and blood pressure by analyzing blood flow in the face.

• Trial Details: The tool will be tested by polyclinic patients in Singapore in collaboration with SingHealth Polyclinics.

• Measurement Accuracy: The tool provides accurate readings regardless of skin color and can be used with various devices like phones, laptops, and tablets.

• Healthcare Monitoring Advancement: DeepHealthVision, a wearable device, enables continuous remote health monitoring, potentially reducing hospitalizations.

• DeepHealthVision Accuracy: Demonstrated 96% accuracy in heart rate and blood pressure readings compared to established devices.

• Pilot Test in Singapore: Around 60 polyclinic patients will participate in a pilot test of DeepHealthVision in the coming months.

• Pilot Test Objective: To assess patient confidence, acceptance, and concerns regarding the use of AI in healthcare.

• Pilot Test Duration and Data Analysis: The pilot test will run for at least a year, with collected data analyzed and peer-reviewed.

• Potential Future Integration: DeepHealthVision, if successful, may be integrated into healthcare apps like Health Buddy.

LifeStyle Updates : KL to JB ETS launches Aug 2025 — a new era for Singapore-Malaysia travel

Source : 

https://sethlui.com/new-ets-route-launch-kl-jb-malaysia-jun-2025/

Apple Intelligence : 

• Travel Time Reduction: The new ETS will reduce travel time between Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru from 7 hours to 4 hours and 30 minutes.

• Route and Speed: The ETS will operate on the Gemas – JB Sentral route, reaching speeds of up to 140km/h, with stops at Segamat, Kluang, Kulai, and JB Sentral.

• Passenger Comfort: The ETS 3 train set offers 312 seats, onboard WiFi, USB charging ports, and ample luggage space.

• Projected Daily Ridership: Approximately 3,000 passengers.

• Road Closure Duration: Jalan Johor Bahru–Endau road will be closed from June 3, 2025, to December 31, 2026.

• Affected Roads: Jalan Tun Abdul Razak (towards Danga Bay), Jalan Station, Jalan Wong Ah Fook, and Jalan Lingkaran Dalam.

LifeStyle Updates : Economy rice stalls at Koufu food courts to have price labels for all dishes

Source : 

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/koufu-food-court-economy-rice-caifan-price-labels-dishes-5020061

Apple Intelligence : 

• Price Transparency Initiative: Economy rice stalls at Koufu food courts will display price labels for all dishes.

• Labeling System: Price labels will be color-coded to categorize dish types (meat, seafood, vegetables, premium) and individual prices.

• Implementation Timeline: The initiative will be implemented across all Koufu economy rice stalls by the end of 2025.

• Initiative Goal: To promote fair and clear pricing for economy rice in Singapore.

• Initiative Details: Koufu and CASE are partnering to implement color-coded labels for economy rice dishes, allowing consumers to make informed choices and prevent price disputes.

• Initiative Benefit: Benefits both customers and stall operators by making pricing and choices clearer.

Investing Updates : CNA Explains: What happens if a Singapore-licensed investment platform goes under?

Source : 

https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/mas-licence-sdic-investment-chocolate-finance-4995486

Apple Intelligence : 

• Investment Protection Discussion: The pause in instant withdrawals on Chocolate Finance sparked discussion on the protection of investments.

• SDIC Coverage Limitation: Money placed with investment platforms like Chocolate Finance is not covered by the SDIC Deposit Insurance Scheme, unlike bank deposits.

• Chocolate Finance’s Assurance: Chocolate Finance, licensed by MAS, assured customers that their funds are safe and held separately by custodians.

• Regulation Requirements: Companies managing funds need a capital markets services license from MAS, considering factors like fitness, track record, management expertise, business plans, and projections.

• Regulated Companies: Prominent investment platforms like Endowus, StashAway, and Chocolate Finance are typically regulated by MAS.

• Benefits of Licensing: MAS-licensed companies are likely to be financially stable, less prone to collapse, and provide consumer confidence due to regulatory oversight.

• Customer Fund Protection: Customers’ funds must be held in segregated, ringfenced accounts and protected by a robust custodian framework.

• Risk Management and Transparency: Companies must have a risk management framework and provide clear, transparent disclosures on service terms.

• Company Failure Protection: While funds are protected, customers may still experience delays in accessing their money if a company fails, and the government may provide implicit guarantees.

• Market Impact of COVID-19: Heightened market volatility caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Potential Losses for Customers: Customers forced to liquidate portfolios could suffer losses.

LifeStyle Updates : 2024 Dragon Year failed to boost S’pore’s total fertility rate, which remains at a low of 0.97

Source:

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/politics/2024-dragon-year-failed-to-boost-spores-total-fertility-rate-which-remains-at-a-low-of-0-97

Apple Intelligence:

• Singapore’s TFR: Remained low at 0.97 in 2024, unchanged from 2023.

• Impact of Low Fertility Rate: Significant implications for Singapore’s economy and society, including slower workforce growth and challenges in supporting an aging population.

• Dragon Year Effect: Diminishing over the years, reflecting generational shifts in attitudes and priorities among young couples.

• Singapore’s TFR: Singapore’s TFR dropped to a record low of 0.97 in 2023, below the replacement rate of 2.1.

• Dragon Year Impact: Singapore’s TFR rose in the past three Dragon years, but the impact is not guaranteed.

• Government Initiatives: The Singaporean government has implemented measures to promote marriage and parenthood, such as shared parental leave.

• Government’s Goal: Encourage couples to have more children.

• Reason for Low Birth Rate: Couples worry about having less time for each child and higher expenses.

• Existing Support Measures: Families receive more Baby Bonus Scheme and parenthood tax rebate for each subsequent child.

• Financial Benefits for Larger Families: Families with three or more children will receive increased grants for child development, healthcare, and household expenses.

• Increased MediSave Grant: The Large Family MediSave Grant will be increased to $5,000, up from the current $4,000, to offset pregnancy and medical expenses.

• Societal Support for Larger Families: Over 30 companies will offer deals and discounts to families with three or more children.

• Family-Friendly Policies: Discounts for larger vehicles, value bundles for groceries, and a call for a shift in mindset and culture to foster a family-friendly workplace.

• Childcare Leave: Six days of paid childcare leave per year for each working parent with a child under seven years old, and 12 days of unpaid infant care leave per parent per year in the child’s first two years of life.

• Immigration Benefits: Immigrants help to moderate the impact of Singapore’s low birth rate and ageing population.

• Immigration Trend: The average number of new citizenships and PRs granted in the past five years is slightly higher than the preceding five years.

• Transnational Marriages: Over a third of citizen marriages in the past decade involved a Singaporean and a foreigner.

• Immigration Policy: The government will continue to carefully manage the pace of immigration, considering factors like the falling Total Fertility Rate (TFR).