LifeStyle Updates : SCB Smart Card Changes

URL: https://milelion.com/2024/11/07/junk-card-stanchart-smart-card-introduces-minimum-spend-and-annual-fee/

The Standard Chartered Smart Card in Singapore has introduced new conditions: a minimum monthly spend of S$500 starting January 2024 to earn cashback, and an annual fee of S$199 that is waived only for the first year. These changes affect cardholders who previously enjoyed fee-free cashback benefits, sparking frustration among users who now see the card as less attractive.

LifeStyle Updates : NS Credits Cash Out

URL: https://sethisfy.com/best-ways-to-cash-out-your-ns-credits-2024-edition/

To cash out NS LifeSG credits, here are some options:

1. YouTrip: Transfer NS credits via PayNow QR code for an instant cashout, with a S$5 bonus for new users.

2. AXS: Pay bills (e.g., taxes, insurance) using credits, a convenient option.

3. ShopeePay: Top-up and withdraw to your bank (up to 3-day processing).

4. Sheng Siong ATM: Withdraw cash with a S$0.20 fee, limited to multiples of S$10.

Each method has different processing times and fees.

LifeStyle Updates : Hunt The Mouse

URL: https://mothership.sg/2024/10/hunt-the-mouse-gold-coin-hidden/

#HuntTheMouse is an annual treasure hunt in Singapore, organized by the gamification company Sqkii.

Participants search for hidden coins across the island, each redeemable for cash prizes.

The 2024 edition, running from October 10 to November 9, offers a total prize pool of S$1 million, including a grand prize of S$500,000 for finding a single gold coin.

To participate, players can access the game via the official website or mobile app.

Hints about coin locations are released daily on Sqkii's social media channels and the game platform.

The game is free and open to both residents and tourists in Singapore.

This year's event features 300 silver coins, each worth S$500 or S$2,500, in addition to the gold coin.

New power-up features, such as the Coin Sonar, have been introduced to assist hunters in locating the coins.

Referral Updates : Trust Bank Referral Code - YTKNCJWS

"I'm just 2 stamps short to receive a free AirPods Pro 😆. Creating a blog post using ChatGPT to increase awareness of my Trust Bank referral code : YTKNCJWS"

Why Trust Bank is Your Best Choice Among Digital Banks – Use Referral Code YTKNCJWS for Exclusive Perks!

Are you deciding between digital banks? With so many options, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. But Trust Bank stands out from the crowd, especially when you compare it to alternatives like MariBank and GXS Bank. And here’s the best part: if you sign up using my referral code YTKNCJWS, you’ll unlock exclusive perks that set your banking journey off on the right foot!

Trust Bank vs. MariBank and GXS Bank – The Winning Differences

1. Competitive Rewards and Bonuses

   - Trust Bank: With YTKNCJWS, you receive an exclusive welcome bonus and a higher rewards rate on your initial transactions, making it easy to start earning right away. Trust Bank’s loyalty program allows you to earn points on every transaction, redeemable for cash back, gift cards, or additional perks.

   - MariBank: While MariBank offers a good welcome bonus, it tends to have more specific requirements for higher-tier rewards, limiting flexibility.

   - GXS Bank: GXS Bank provides a solid loyalty program, but it often emphasizes limited-time promotions that may not always be available.

2. Fee Structure

   - Trust Bank: Known for its low to no fees, Trust Bank minimizes your banking costs, so you can keep more of your money.

   - MariBank: While fees are generally low, MariBank does have specific charges for select services that can add up if you’re not careful.

   - GXS Bank: GXS Bank’s fees are low for the most part, but it has a few extra charges on international transfers and certain payment options.

3. User-Friendly Digital Platform

   - Trust Bank: Trust Bank’s app offers an intuitive, easy-to-navigate interface that allows users to manage all their banking in one place. Plus, setting up an account with code YTKNCJWS is quick and secure.

   - MariBank: The app design is solid but has received feedback on occasional glitches during high-traffic times, which can disrupt smooth account management.

   - GXS Bank: GXS Bank’s app has a modern feel, but it can be a bit more complex for first-time users, especially those unfamiliar with digital banking platforms.

4. Flexible Spending & Saving Options

   - Trust Bank: Trust Bank provides flexible options that let you save, spend, and manage funds with ease. Its rewards are adaptable, allowing you to optimize points and cash back on what you value most.

   - MariBank: While MariBank has good savings features, it leans more toward set categories, which might not cater to every user’s spending style.

   - GXS Bank: GXS Bank offers flexibility, but their focus on limited-time promotions can make consistency in benefits less predictable.

Why You Should Sign Up with Trust Bank Today

Trust Bank prioritizes what matters most – seamless banking, low fees, and rewarding loyalty. With code YTKNCJWS, you’ll enjoy a unique welcome bonus and other perks designed to make your life easier and more rewarding. 

Get the Best of Banking in Your Hands – Use YTKNCJWS and Start Earning Today!

LifeStyle Updates : Ways to Earn Free Money in SG

URL: https://dollarsandsense.sg/ways-to-earn-free-money-in-singapore/

Here's a brief summary of the article:

• Credit Cards: Apply for credit cards that match your spending habits to take advantage of special promotions and deals.

• Cashback Cards: Use cashback credit cards for everyday purchases to earn a percentage of your spend back.

• High-Interest Savings Accounts: Optimize your savings by using high-interest rate accounts offered by banks.

• No-Frills Savings Accounts: Maintain a no-frills savings account for specific savings goals while earning some interest.

• Referral Programs: Refer friends to products and services you use, such as cashback apps and mobile wallet apps, to earn rewards.

"Article's accurate but it's missing something. Everyone should daily log in to their favourite shopping apps and perform basic actions or games to earn reward points. Diminishing returns principle apply here, not all actions will merit your time. Have to use do some testing and judgement on your efforts."

LifeStyle Updates : Trust Card over YouTrip in overseas

Investing Updates : Hamster Kombat Roadmap

URL: https://decrypt.co/251191/whats-next-hamster-kombat-after-airdrop-expanding-beyond-telegram

OpenAI

Here are five detailed points from the Decrypt article on the future of Hamster Kombat after its airdrop:

1. Game Concept and Popularity: Hamster Kombat is a tap-to-earn game on Telegram where players earn in-game coins by tapping. The game has gained significant popularity, amassing over 300 million players since its launch.

2. Airdrop on The Open Network (TON): The game recently launched an airdrop of its token on The Open Network (TON). Players can claim these tokens based on the coins they’ve earned in the game. This airdrop has driven a surge in player activity.

3. Expansion Beyond Telegram: Following the airdrop, the developers plan to expand the game beyond Telegram. This includes potential integration with other platforms and additional features to keep the game engaging and attract a broader audience.

4. Comparison to Notcoin: Hamster Kombat’s core concept is similar to Notcoin, another popular tap-to-earn game. However, Hamster Kombat offers richer game mechanics, such as simulating the role of a CEO of a crypto exchange, which adds depth to the gameplay.

5. Future Prospects and Player Engagement: The game’s future looks promising with plans for continuous updates and expansions. The developers aim to maintain high player engagement by introducing new features and possibly more airdrops, ensuring the game remains attractive to both existing and new players.

My Thoughts

• It's certainly unpredictable for Hamster Kombat from here onwards.

• Will still invest some of my time since it's quite fun.

• My referral https://t.me/hamster_Kombat_bot/start?startapp=kentId772562921

Investing Updates : Rocky Rabbit Airdrop

URL : https://rockyrabbit.io/

OpenAI

The recent Rocky Rabbit airdrop has generated a lot of buzz, especially due to its integration with a popular Telegram-based game on the TON blockchain. This tap-to-earn game allows users to earn in-game currency and cryptocurrency rewards by engaging in duels, upgrading virtual rabbits, and completing daily tasks. 

Feedback around the airdrop, which took place on September 23, 2024, has been mostly positive, especially due to the game’s significant growth, attracting over 25 million players in just a few months. Players have also been keen on the RabBitcoin (RBTC) token, which is expected to be listed on major exchanges like Binance and KuCoin, creating more opportunities for users to capitalize on their in-game efforts.

However, while the pre-market performance of the token has shown some volatility, with prices initially fluctuating between $0.001 to $0.005, its listing could provide further insight into its long-term value. The game’s high engagement rates and innovative referral system have contributed to its popularity, which could support its future in the crypto space.

Overall, the game's unique mix of gaming and crypto could ensure a promising future for RBTC, though success will heavily depend on continued user engagement and the reception of the token once fully listed.

My Thoughts

• Another popular crypto airdrop has landed. Got 600,000 tokens as shown.

• Had to pay 0.5 TON transaction fees. Internet criticised Rocky Rabbit for their "promise" of repaying this fee which didn't happen for many, including me. 

• I still feel good for this game. All these animals ; Hamster, Rabbit, related games etc are cute 😂. I think you have to manage your expectations with this genre. Enjoy the game, humor and treat profits as a plus.

Investing Updates : Hamster Kombat Airdrop

URL : https://hamsterkombatgame.io/

OpenAI

The Hamster Kombat airdrop, which took place in late September 2024, has garnered significant attention but received mixed feedback. While the airdrop was labeled as one of the largest in crypto history, only 43% of the users qualified, leading to some dissatisfaction. Over 131 million users were eligible, but 2.3 million accounts were banned due to cheating, contributing to the reduced eligibility.

Despite this, the overall reception from the community remains optimistic, particularly as Hamster Kombat continues to grow, boasting over 300 million users globally. The airdrop was seen as a reward for early supporters, with over 60 billion tokens distributed initially, and 15% of the total token supply set aside for future seasons. Analysts predict that the token could reach up to $0.05 by the end of 2024, driven by increasing adoption and upcoming exchange listings on major platforms like Binance and Bybit.

Looking ahead, Hamster Kombat aims to introduce new features, such as additional battle arenas, NFTs, and community-driven events, to maintain player engagement and expand its ecosystem. This continued development is expected to bolster the future of the game, especially as it integrates further into the Web3 space.

My Thoughts

• Rejected by Catizen airdrop 😂. Accepted by Hamster Kombat 😀.

• For 60 days of effort, I didn't win much tokens. To be fair, I didn't participate actively. Only doing in the morning, train rides, kids sleeping.

• I'm beginning to enjoy it the more I play. Will instil discipline to push harder in other promising apps as referenced in my referral page.

Investing Updates : SG Crypto Landscape

https://www.straitstimes.com/business/crypto-tie-ups-heat-up-action-in-singapore-in-areas-of-payment-and-stablecoin

OpenAI

The cryptocurrency landscape in Singapore is witnessing rapid growth through key partnerships and initiatives. Payment firm Triple-A has teamed up with DCS Card Centre, allowing users to top up with five digital currencies, including Bitcoin and Ether. Ride-hailing platforms Grab and Tada have integrated crypto payments. Meanwhile, Standard Chartered invested in One Trading, Circle partnered with Sony for stablecoin USDC, and TRM Labs joined forces with Tron and Tether to combat crypto-related crimes. Analytics platform Nansen also expanded its offerings by acquiring StakeWithUs.

My Thoughts

• Grab and Tada crypto payments for services are interesting developments. I wonder how's the transaction volumes so far.

• I think it will drive awareness and adoption greatly if crypto is available in Shopee & Lazada platforms, PayLah, etc. These are popular everyday services used by many.

• Generally, it's going the right direction in SG. Looks exciting from here onwards.

Investing Updates : GXS Interest Rate Boosting

https://www.theedgesingapore.com/capital/investing-101/gxs-bank-launches-interest-rate-boosting-feature-savings

OpenAI

Summary of the Article:

1. Feature Introduction: GXS Bank has launched a new savings account feature that offers an enhanced interest rate based on meeting certain conditions.

2. Interest Rate Boost: This feature provides a higher interest rate compared to traditional savings accounts. The boost is contingent on specific criteria such as maintaining a minimum balance or making regular deposits.

3. Eligibility Requirements: To qualify for the boosted interest rates, account holders must adhere to conditions set by the bank, which may include minimum balance requirements or frequent transactions.

4. Market Impact: The introduction of this feature is intended to make GXS Bank's savings accounts more competitive and attractive in the financial market.

5. Consumer Benefit: The feature is designed to offer better returns on savings, aiming to appeal to customers seeking higher yields on their deposited funds.

Online Forum Insights:

HardwareZone:

1. Feedback on Interest Rates: Users generally appreciate the higher interest rates compared to traditional savings accounts, but some question whether the eligibility criteria are too stringent.

2. Ease of Use: Positive comments often highlight the user-friendly nature of the online banking platform, but there are mixed feelings about the ease of meeting the required conditions.

3. Comparison with Competitors: Many users compare this feature with similar offerings from other banks and digital platforms, noting that GXS Bank's feature is competitive but not necessarily the highest available.

4. Customer Service: There are mixed reviews about customer service, with some users praising prompt responses while others report delays or difficulties.

5. Overall Satisfaction: The overall sentiment is cautiously optimistic, with users recommending the account for those who can meet the criteria, but advising others to consider their own financial habits and needs.

Reddit:

1. Interest Rate Appeal: Users on Reddit find the interest rate boost attractive, particularly when compared to standard savings account rates. However, some express concerns about the feasibility of meeting the conditions.

2. Eligibility Concerns: Discussions often center around whether the criteria for the boosted rate are reasonable and how they compare to other banks’ offers.

3. User Experience: Feedback about the user experience is generally positive, with praise for the digital platform’s functionality but occasional complaints about account management and customer support.

4. Product Comparisons: Users frequently compare GXS Bank’s new feature with other savings products and digital banks, finding it competitive but noting that alternatives might offer better terms or fewer restrictions.

5. Recommendations: Recommendations on Reddit suggest that the account is a good option for those who can comfortably meet the eligibility requirements, but it’s important to weigh it against other available options.

Conclusion:

The new interest rate-boosting feature from GXS Bank is generally well-regarded for offering higher returns on savings compared to traditional accounts. However, user feedback indicates mixed opinions on the practicality of meeting the eligibility requirements and the overall customer service experience. It appears to be a competitive product but should be evaluated alongside other options based on individual financial habits and needs.

My Thoughts

• It's a good new term-based savings product. Especially when SSB, T-Bills are falling quickly. GXS Bank is SDIC insured, although I'm not sure if these are covered.

• Imo, GXS Bank has to step up. Trust Bank has focused on NTUC link up, rewards, credit cards with good foreign rates. MariBank has focused on Shopee rewards, cash back credit card. GXS Grab link up with Grab pales in comparison.

• If GXS maintains their product interest rate around 3%+ while all govt financial products fall. It will be an attractive option.

Picture generated by Co-pilot

Technology Updates : Worldcoin

AI Summarisation

Worldcoin has garnered both praise and controversy. Let’s delve into the details:

1. Legitimacy:

   • Worldcoin is a legitimate venture co-founded by Sam Altman, the former president of Y Combinator and current CEO of OpenAI¹.
   • It aims to create a privacy-preserving human identity and financial network by verifying user accounts (World IDs) using biometric data captured by Worldcoin Orbs².
   • These World IDs can be used to verify accounts on other platforms, proving users are human².

2. Controversy:

   • Worldcoin’s approach involves collecting iris scans and other biometric data from users, which has raised privacy concerns³.
   • In Spain, the Agency for the Protection of Data ordered Worldcoin to stop data collection and processing, issuing a temporary ban on its operations⁴.
   • Regulators worldwide have also banned Worldcoin due to privacy fears⁵.

3. Singapore:

   • Worldcoin has been operating in Singapore since December 2023, with orbs in at least 10 locations islandwide².
   • Users queue up to get their eyes scanned for Worldcoin cryptocurrency, receiving tokens in return².
   • Each person can verify their account only once, and the amount of tokens varies².

In summary, while Worldcoin has notable support and technological backing, its controversial data collection practices and regulatory challenges warrant caution. Consider your privacy preferences and risk tolerance when engaging with it. 🌐💡🔍

My Thoughts

• Worldcoin has a good cause. At least theoretically in a world that's increasing driven by AI all around.
• Worldcoin technically adheres to the ethos of crypto, that is, it resides on a decentralised blockchain for everyone to see.
• The question though is not on the tech itself, but on the middlemen who's executing it i.e. organisers, businesses, etc.

https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/queues-spotted-in-s-pore-as-people-get-their-eyes-scanned-for-cryptocurrency

Rewards Updates : Mari Credit Card

• Interested in getting this cashback card since Shopee is my regular platform.
• Wonder what's required to be invited. Lots of $$ in Savings and Mari Invest?
• More competition in this space is always a good thing for consumers.

https://milelion.com/2024/06/28/mari-credit-card-review-shopee-pi-pi-pi-pi/

LifeStyle Updates : First 1000 EZ Link Wallet Rewards

• Just got rewarded $2 into EZ-Link e-Wallet.
• Fastest finger first survey. One of the reasons to turn on all notifications for mobile applications.

LifeStyle Updates : KFC Whack A Chicken

• $8 off e-Voucher is good. It's applicable for all types of purchases (Online, Takeaway, Delivery) too.
• But it's hard to get the required points. At least 1000 points to have a chance.
• Games also seem to be random with the chicks' types. (Blue chick awards the most points) So sometimes it feels like 1000 points is not doable.

https://www.kfc.com.sg/whats-new/kfc-sg-app

Rewards Updates : Kopitiam Rewards

• Kopitiam has a good reward system especially when you use Trust Card as payment.
• There is free hot kopi when you scan the QR Code for surveys. It expires within 1 month. Use of Trust Card with 4 transactions gives you free kopi too. It expires within 3 months.
• When purchases are > $10, scan with ShopperLink app to get points.

 

Rewards Updates : CrowdTask

• New Government platform to answer questions, submit budget meals and claim points for NETs QR discounts.
• The questions are usually simple. Although you could be identified since it is via SingPass login, some people may provide "fake" responses.
• Budget meal submissions are cool. Needs more people to do submissions and verifications.

  
https://www.crowdtask.gov.sg/

Shopping Updates : Shopee, Lazada 11.11

• Noticed something odd on TCL Official Store on Shopee. While prices on each item page states ??? before 11.11, the shop page itself has images that are already showing the prices. I think this is not the first time I've seen something like this, whether if it is deliberate or not, knowing the prices in advance help in budgeting for all your items.
• Bought a few stuff i.e. TV, TV box, pants & boxers around midnight to grab the vouchers. Prices are generally cheaper based on my monitoring.
• Shopee supermarket running out of 30 x Coke deal and Shopee Brand Toilet Paper.

Rewards & Referrals Updates : EZ Link Holey Moley

EZ Link Referral Code : 4018B5C

Very difficult game version this time.

Why? You can't play with one hand. Very easy to tap on the spider. Keep getting the Try Again for the candies.

https://sg.theasianparent.com/ez-link-app-introduces-holey-moley-a-fun-halloween-game-for-singapore-commuters 

Rewards & Referrals Updates

---Highlight--- 

Removing services below that I no longer actively use or intend to use in near future.

NFT market is at all time low so not spending any time browsing NFTs.

Shifting some USDC and Polkadot into Coinbase after it won major licensing in Singapore.

---Current Rewards---

https://www.singaporepools.com.sg/

https://cointiply.com/

https://faucetcrypto.com/

https://firefaucet.win/ref/wfsw

https://freebitco.in/?op=home

https://www.swagbucks.com/

https://www.lifepointspanel.com/

https://sg.yougov.com/en-sg/results/

Defi Services

Ledger Live, Lido, Curve, Compound, RocketPool, UniSwap, Yoroi, MinSwap, Aave, Bake (Previously CakeDefi), Coinbase Earn

---Current Referrals---

MooMoo 

LUW9ET7M

https://invite-code.moomoo.com/share?code=LUW9ET7M&inviter=103096561&global_content=%7B%7D&channel=&subchannel=

Tiger Brokers 

KDXR9K

https://tigr.link/1qmhWP

WeBull

https://www.webull.com.sg/s/7JusgpFjuEAY9jmAL6

Syfe

SRPTUW33H

https://www.syfe.com/invite/trade/SRPTUW33H

EndowUs

NPERD

https://endowus.com/invite?code=NPERD

uSMART

UUEA

https://m.usmartsg.com/promo/overseas/bonus-dec.html?ICode=uuea&langType=3&Id=

Coinhako

Gs52LE6

https://www.coinhako.com/affiliations/sign_up/Gs52LE6

Crypto.com

vkmtstj959

https://crypto.com/app/vkmtstj959

Bake (Previously CakeDefi)

011465

https://cakedefi.com/?ref=011465

Ledger

https://shop.ledger.com/?referral_code=KT5ZJ1JDC61QY

Trust Bank

YTKNCJWS

Interactive Brokers

https://ibkr.com/referral/szewei952

KuCoin

QBSAG9MC

https://www.kucoin.com/r/rf/QBSAG9MC

Independent Reserve

WGAZDY

https://www.independentreserve.com/invite/WGAZDY

SwagBucks

https://www.swagbucks.com/p/register?rb=128107398

Cointiply

http://cointiply.com/r/ag96v6

Faucetcrypto.com

https://faucetcrypto.com/ref/3089558

Fire Faucet

https://firefaucet.win/ref/wfsw

Free BitCo

https://freebitco.in/?r=52232821

ShopBack

qg5mp5

https://app.shopback.com/vMqHzbB9Gxb

DBS Paylah

WINMWM398

FavePay

FAVEWINSON4

https://m.myfave.com/singapore/invite/FAVEWINSON4

Grab

https://r.grab.com/r/wnsn55dv

YouTrip

https://youtrip.onelink.me/3xWB/ua0ad5pv

FoodPanda

https://www.foodpanda.sg/referral?code=2b80d3de15f1db5d91e4d0ea9b489380&geid=FP_SG

NordVPN

https://ref.nordvpn.com/ADNXcKUhxHb