I'm aching from 3 different locations right now. I've got two (early) abscess - one of my lower left thigh near the knee, and the other on my calf area. (Nope... I'm not uploading photos, don't think you want to see then either!)
What are the chances of getting two at the same time? I've no idea! But I think its pretty slim! And the third location which is aching is my left shoulder where the Doc gave me a jab.... man... I hate jabs.
Zzzzz..... pain....
Monday, December 24, 2007
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Finding your dream job
Not many people know exactly what job they would like to do for the long haul, myself included. One can't really job hop much because that pretty much trashes your resume and any employer is likely to ask why you had held so many jobs over such a short period.
Now, what if you had some sort of a job sampler that allows you to try many many different jobs within a year? One where you could try on a job a week each week?
Someone actually did just that! Not locally of course. Its a venture supported by a job search engine in Canada and all proceeds from it is actually contributed to charity. Personally, I think its a good opportunity to profile different jobs and perhaps allow job seekers the opportunity to experience what different jobs are like. Heck, it could even be a good way for companies to advertise themselves and perhaps they may even pay for it.
Interested to know more? Check out http://www.oneweekjob.com/
Now, what if you had some sort of a job sampler that allows you to try many many different jobs within a year? One where you could try on a job a week each week?
Someone actually did just that! Not locally of course. Its a venture supported by a job search engine in Canada and all proceeds from it is actually contributed to charity. Personally, I think its a good opportunity to profile different jobs and perhaps allow job seekers the opportunity to experience what different jobs are like. Heck, it could even be a good way for companies to advertise themselves and perhaps they may even pay for it.
Interested to know more? Check out http://www.oneweekjob.com/
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Be your own banker!
Or something like that... actually, I'm referring to microfinancing and I came across this website that allows the general population, i.e. people like you and me, to make micro loans to people in need.
I hardly think that this is a means to obtain profits nor is it an investment. In fact, I don't even know if these people pay interest on the loans! But I seems like its for a good cause, and anyone who wants to do some good this christmas can consider helping some poor people start or improve their own business.
I hardly think that this is a means to obtain profits nor is it an investment. In fact, I don't even know if these people pay interest on the loans! But I seems like its for a good cause, and anyone who wants to do some good this christmas can consider helping some poor people start or improve their own business.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Parents unhappy over free happy meal??
I had stopped reading my RSS feeds for awhile, but I'm back on it. :) I came across another interesting article on Motley Fool (seems that MF provides some interesting reads amongst all its other advertising articles in the feeds).
Basically, MacD used a new advertising tactic where they tied up with schools to place happy meal vouchers in exchange for helping schools print their report cards. These vouchers were to be placed in report cards of kids who scored well ('A's or 'B's). However, parents were unhappy with this move because it 'teaches' their kids that they are 'entitled' to a happy meal when they get good grades.
I don't quite understand the unhappiness of parents (in the US) over this. I'm sure Singaporeans will be more than happy to receive such 'gifts'. (My humble opinion is that) Parents are probably glad that they could save some money on some reward they were planning to give their kids anyway.
In addition, don't schools also provide some form of reward for kids that do well? I knew of teachers who offer to give their students a treat if they did well for their subjects, does this then cause students to expect rewards for doing well? I think to some extent it does, but the real question I suppose is, is this necessarily a bad thing?
At some levels, the young also need to be taught that they will be rewarded when they work hard for results, these 'lessons' sometimes comes in the form of parents/teachers giving some form of reward or recognition to children who do well. There is a side to balance however, and that is people are not always rewarded for the hard work they put in, and any working adult will probably agree with that. Indeed, life is not always fair. That's perhaps putting the cart before the horse. In my limited understanding, I think we should always teach children that they are rewarded for hardwork so that we can cultivate them to be hardworking and subsequently slowly teach them the other hard facts of life (that its not always fair).
Of course, to MacD its probably just a marketing strategy. What I really can't figure out is why parents (there) think that its such a bad thing and get so angry over it.
Basically, MacD used a new advertising tactic where they tied up with schools to place happy meal vouchers in exchange for helping schools print their report cards. These vouchers were to be placed in report cards of kids who scored well ('A's or 'B's). However, parents were unhappy with this move because it 'teaches' their kids that they are 'entitled' to a happy meal when they get good grades.
I don't quite understand the unhappiness of parents (in the US) over this. I'm sure Singaporeans will be more than happy to receive such 'gifts'. (My humble opinion is that) Parents are probably glad that they could save some money on some reward they were planning to give their kids anyway.
In addition, don't schools also provide some form of reward for kids that do well? I knew of teachers who offer to give their students a treat if they did well for their subjects, does this then cause students to expect rewards for doing well? I think to some extent it does, but the real question I suppose is, is this necessarily a bad thing?
At some levels, the young also need to be taught that they will be rewarded when they work hard for results, these 'lessons' sometimes comes in the form of parents/teachers giving some form of reward or recognition to children who do well. There is a side to balance however, and that is people are not always rewarded for the hard work they put in, and any working adult will probably agree with that. Indeed, life is not always fair. That's perhaps putting the cart before the horse. In my limited understanding, I think we should always teach children that they are rewarded for hardwork so that we can cultivate them to be hardworking and subsequently slowly teach them the other hard facts of life (that its not always fair).
Of course, to MacD its probably just a marketing strategy. What I really can't figure out is why parents (there) think that its such a bad thing and get so angry over it.
Sunday, December 09, 2007
Updates
Had not been updating my blog as regularly because I'd been focused on learning how to trade. Of course, it takes quite a long time before one can really be considered proficient, and what's more, since trading is rather personal, it takes time to evolve one's own trading style. I've decided to log down my trading journey on another blog. I know I've got tons of blogs that I don't write on.... but I'm sure this one will not be neglected.... haha.
Alright, other updates. I'd been with my division for about 2.5 years, and its about time for me to move on. I'll be moving on to a division that deals with the tourism industry. I'm not sure how well I'll fit in, but I think its definately new grounds which will provide me with new learning opportunities. Wish me luck on this one.
Alright, other updates. I'd been with my division for about 2.5 years, and its about time for me to move on. I'll be moving on to a division that deals with the tourism industry. I'm not sure how well I'll fit in, but I think its definately new grounds which will provide me with new learning opportunities. Wish me luck on this one.
Saturday, December 01, 2007
Investment Learning Resources
I had been subscribed to the MorningStar newsletter to get some market sentiments about mutual funds and stocks. Morningstar is a very good reference site for anyone wishing to do some investigation into the various types of funds available, and it also appears that they touch on stocks too. Not Singapore stocks unfortunately.
The recently sent out an advertisement on some workbooks they had come up with for stocks investing. It looks quite interesting and seems like a good resource for learning how to invest in stocks. I'm horrible with stocks investments (everything is in the red now), and will consider getting these workbooks only after I've perfected my FX trading.... that means... in a long long long long time. :P
The recently sent out an advertisement on some workbooks they had come up with for stocks investing. It looks quite interesting and seems like a good resource for learning how to invest in stocks. I'm horrible with stocks investments (everything is in the red now), and will consider getting these workbooks only after I've perfected my FX trading.... that means... in a long long long long time. :P
Friday, November 30, 2007
Good use of 2x2 Matrix
Here's an example of a good use (I think) of a 2 by 2 Matrix for analysis. There are many ways such matrices could be used, and many of them are now popular business or personal management tools. These include the Urgency vs Important Matrix for time management, the SWOT analysis, and many others.
Monday, November 19, 2007
The World Passing By
Don't you sometimes feel like the world is just passing you by? I get that feeling every now and then.... and it scares me.
At some level, I had perhaps attached some self-worth with what I do at work. I'm in transition right now, so the work I do is pretty meaningless and low-level. Not that I'm yearning to work OT or anything, just that suddenly, I feel like I'm not doing much. But then again, a person's shouldn't be too attached to the value of his work.
I wonder myself "What's bugging me?". I should be happy with more free time... and that's just it.... more free time, less meaningful things to do = feeling the world is passing you by....
At some level, I had perhaps attached some self-worth with what I do at work. I'm in transition right now, so the work I do is pretty meaningless and low-level. Not that I'm yearning to work OT or anything, just that suddenly, I feel like I'm not doing much. But then again, a person's shouldn't be too attached to the value of his work.
I wonder myself "What's bugging me?". I should be happy with more free time... and that's just it.... more free time, less meaningful things to do = feeling the world is passing you by....
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
e$avers Interest Rates Drop again
Just received another letter from standchart informing me that the interest I receive on my e$avers account will drop again. Doesn't seem too long ago that the interest rates was revised downwards. Since I have less than 50k in the bank, that will be the rates I'm looking at.
Previously, the rates were 1.8%, then in dropped to 1.5% and in Nov in will drop to 1.2%. Of course, the email also states that "despite this revision, e$avers remains one of the best savings accounts to earn higher interest on your savings."
At 1.2%, it is still a competitive rate compared to many savings accounts provided by many banks. But does this mean its the best option to keep your cash? I think it may be time to look around again and see if there are any other people who offer higher interest to keep your cash. Just for the purpose of illustration, if you had 49k in your bank, these are the interest you will receive.
1.8% : $882
1.5% : $735
1.2% : $588
That's a drop from $882 at 1.8% to $588 at 1.2%. Or in other words a drop of 33% in returns!
Of course, if its still the one offering the best rates, then we'll have to live with it, else you may want to consider some other options of where to park your cash. Perhaps you could cycle it through really short term T-Bills. These typically return about 2% per year.
This is what a friend's friend did: Invest in T-Bills with a holding period of 3 months, and cycle through them. So it looks something like that:
Month 1: Lot 1
Month 2: Lot 2
Month 3: Lot 3
Month 4: Lot 1 matures -> Reinvest
Month 5: Lot 2 matures -> Reinvest
... and so on.
Not sure if I'll go through the trouble for that.... but I might be worthwhile to do so if the interest rates keep dropping....
Previously, the rates were 1.8%, then in dropped to 1.5% and in Nov in will drop to 1.2%. Of course, the email also states that "despite this revision, e$avers remains one of the best savings accounts to earn higher interest on your savings."
At 1.2%, it is still a competitive rate compared to many savings accounts provided by many banks. But does this mean its the best option to keep your cash? I think it may be time to look around again and see if there are any other people who offer higher interest to keep your cash. Just for the purpose of illustration, if you had 49k in your bank, these are the interest you will receive.
1.8% : $882
1.5% : $735
1.2% : $588
That's a drop from $882 at 1.8% to $588 at 1.2%. Or in other words a drop of 33% in returns!
Of course, if its still the one offering the best rates, then we'll have to live with it, else you may want to consider some other options of where to park your cash. Perhaps you could cycle it through really short term T-Bills. These typically return about 2% per year.
This is what a friend's friend did: Invest in T-Bills with a holding period of 3 months, and cycle through them. So it looks something like that:
Month 1: Lot 1
Month 2: Lot 2
Month 3: Lot 3
Month 4: Lot 1 matures -> Reinvest
Month 5: Lot 2 matures -> Reinvest
... and so on.
Not sure if I'll go through the trouble for that.... but I might be worthwhile to do so if the interest rates keep dropping....
Monday, October 29, 2007
Back to Climbing
I had finally (after repeated requests by Junjie) went rockclimbing at Yishun Safra yesterday! Our group comprised Nicholl, Junjie and myself. It was also really great to see familiar faces like Bernard, Angie and company.
Looks like in addition to the belly I'm growing, I'd also grown weak. Only managed 2 climbs, and I had rested 3-4 times along the way up for each climb! That speaks volumes! Well, I'm not left with sunburns and aching forearms. But all in all, it was great fun climbing again, somehow, people crap more when they climb, hahaha!
Looks like in addition to the belly I'm growing, I'd also grown weak. Only managed 2 climbs, and I had rested 3-4 times along the way up for each climb! That speaks volumes! Well, I'm not left with sunburns and aching forearms. But all in all, it was great fun climbing again, somehow, people crap more when they climb, hahaha!
Checking up on Financial Companies
I posted earlier on being careful on your investments and doing background checks. And recently, Sunshine Empire has also made the news with MAS on doing its checks to make sure that what the company is doing is legit. MAS has posted a list of companies under checks, and you may want to check against this list before dealing with any new finance-type companies.
Link: http://www.moneysense.gov.sg/check_our_list/Consumer_Portal_IAL.html
Link: http://www.moneysense.gov.sg/check_our_list/Consumer_Portal_IAL.html
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Diversifying my finances
I did some thinking over my finances again, and I think I shall start a small regular savings plan for unit trusts (or mutual funds). The front load is 3% and the maintainance fee is 0.25% per quarter. Been having some hesitations over getting into mutual funds because most literature says that funds generally do not out-perform indices. But my (independant) financial advisor is a friend, and I thought I could let someone manage abit of my cash for now. The draw-down and risk I think I can withstand, and if anything goes wrong, I'll just take the cash out and consider any losses as sunk costs.
So my upcoming portfolio comprises
a) Savings - To build up to 6 months worth of wages
b) Funds - To contribute about 10% of wages per month
c) Forex - Fix amount allocated for trading.
d) Stocks - Minimal amount of stocks being held. No intention to purchase more at this point.
The savings provide a safety net in the event of any emergencies, the funds provide a means for diversification and accumulation of cash over the long term, forex allows me to learn how to trade for profits, and stocks... well, that I'm just holding on because they aren't doing too well although some people project them to rise over a longer horizon.
So there you have it! My slightly modified approach to my finances. Actually, I really need to spend more effort and time on my other aspects - Career, Fitness...etc. But at least I'm getting some satisfaction knowing I had at least been moving steadily towards one of my goals.
So my upcoming portfolio comprises
a) Savings - To build up to 6 months worth of wages
b) Funds - To contribute about 10% of wages per month
c) Forex - Fix amount allocated for trading.
d) Stocks - Minimal amount of stocks being held. No intention to purchase more at this point.
The savings provide a safety net in the event of any emergencies, the funds provide a means for diversification and accumulation of cash over the long term, forex allows me to learn how to trade for profits, and stocks... well, that I'm just holding on because they aren't doing too well although some people project them to rise over a longer horizon.
So there you have it! My slightly modified approach to my finances. Actually, I really need to spend more effort and time on my other aspects - Career, Fitness...etc. But at least I'm getting some satisfaction knowing I had at least been moving steadily towards one of my goals.
Friday, October 26, 2007
Career Prospects
Was chatting with a friend over MSN one day, and he was recommending that I start looking for another job with better wages given that my bond value is much smaller. In a nutshell, it makes more economical sense to break it and get a job with higher wage - Target 5k - 6k monthly.
Its not the first time I'd been told to start lookout at other options for better prospect, and so I decided to check out the available finance jobs, and I found this link quite useful : http://www.efinancialcareers.sg
However, I'll be transferred to another division in Jan next year. So I think I'll probably stay till the end of my bond which will probably cost me around 13k to break. I think it is only responsible to stay for a year after a transfer just to learn the ropes, and besides, it sends a bad signal to the new boss if I just get transferred and quit shortly after.
I'll definately be keeping my options open I suppose... I know my pay is quite comfortable for someone who doesn't have a family or house to support, but one really shouldn't wait until its uncomfortable before doing something right?
Its not the first time I'd been told to start lookout at other options for better prospect, and so I decided to check out the available finance jobs, and I found this link quite useful : http://www.efinancialcareers.sg
However, I'll be transferred to another division in Jan next year. So I think I'll probably stay till the end of my bond which will probably cost me around 13k to break. I think it is only responsible to stay for a year after a transfer just to learn the ropes, and besides, it sends a bad signal to the new boss if I just get transferred and quit shortly after.
I'll definately be keeping my options open I suppose... I know my pay is quite comfortable for someone who doesn't have a family or house to support, but one really shouldn't wait until its uncomfortable before doing something right?
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Trading Learning Points
There's a general rule for trading out there - Cut your losses and let your profits run. In theory, that's a pretty good rule to follow. But its often easier said than done before letting your profits run also means the potential for a winner to become a loser.
Every trader would have had the experience of holding on for too long without taking profits and ultimately ending up with losses. I know I've had that.
So how do I use that in my trading? As far as I can, I'll take profits for most of my positions and then let a much smaller amount run so that I'll not lose much if the market turns on me. But that also significantly cuts down my profits, and my risks of course. I'll probably take some time to see what works for me. For now, keeping my eye on my outcome.... profits!
Every trader would have had the experience of holding on for too long without taking profits and ultimately ending up with losses. I know I've had that.
So how do I use that in my trading? As far as I can, I'll take profits for most of my positions and then let a much smaller amount run so that I'll not lose much if the market turns on me. But that also significantly cuts down my profits, and my risks of course. I'll probably take some time to see what works for me. For now, keeping my eye on my outcome.... profits!
Pranks like no other
I was skimming through my daily RSS feeds from Motley Fool and came across this prank performed on Abercrombie. Ambercrombie is basically a clothing store and as part of their marketing, they use lots of topless males and even have a topless male model running around the store. So what did the pranksters do? They sent 100+ males topless into the store as customers. Hahaha... this beats any flash mob in Singapore I think.
It appears that that was just their latest prank and there were other pranks too, and its all on their website. Everything from putting a Butler into a MacD's toilet to putting a suicide jumper on a 4 foot tall ledge (The entire story is hilarious!)
Go ahead! Laugh your hearts out.
It appears that that was just their latest prank and there were other pranks too, and its all on their website. Everything from putting a Butler into a MacD's toilet to putting a suicide jumper on a 4 foot tall ledge (The entire story is hilarious!)
Go ahead! Laugh your hearts out.
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Money as Debt
How was money created? Does money represent value, or actually debt? Here's an interesting video if you have about 40mins to spare. :)
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Restlessness
I'd been feeling this wave of restlessness. I don't know why exactly I feel that way... but what I do know is that its extremely bad emotional state for trading! The feeling of restlessness spurs me to enter into trading positions against my better judgements. Needless to say, there are always consequences to foolish actions. I'm feeling more broke than usual right now. :(
I suppose getting burnt then only adds more to the restless feeling, so I'll have to break the stupid cycle. In anycase, my book reading has come to a slight slow down with the exception of trading books. I think I should probably take some time off to read my other books - self-improvement books, story books, or even my long-stashed christian books.
Or maybe I just need to do a review of the goals I set for myself at the beginning of the year. Ha! I prob didn't meet most of them I guess. At least there's some progress in the correct direction.
Argh... stupid restlessness.... go away!
I suppose getting burnt then only adds more to the restless feeling, so I'll have to break the stupid cycle. In anycase, my book reading has come to a slight slow down with the exception of trading books. I think I should probably take some time off to read my other books - self-improvement books, story books, or even my long-stashed christian books.
Or maybe I just need to do a review of the goals I set for myself at the beginning of the year. Ha! I prob didn't meet most of them I guess. At least there's some progress in the correct direction.
Argh... stupid restlessness.... go away!
Monday, October 15, 2007
Crazy Bosses
Well, we all had times when we thought our bosses were unreasonable or even crazy. Well, I certainly had my own experiences, but some of these stories really take the cake!
http://bingbosses.blogs.fortune.cnn.com/
http://bingbosses.blogs.fortune.cnn.com/
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Trading Call (Kinda)
I'd been reading up with great interest a new trading tool. The Elliot Wave Theory provides quite a new perspective on reading the markets, and I think it will become a rather valuable tool when used properly with the rest of the technical indicators.
In anycase, I'd attempted to 'predict' the movement of the EURUSD for the near term based on what (very) little knowledge I have. So here it is! I think that EURUSD is now undergoing a correction after its extensive rally the past weeks. Based on Elliot Theory, I think it is undergoing a zig-zag kind of correction and will head south to about 1.3980 which also appears to be a small support/resistance area.
Well, its just a practice prediction... so I'm not actually trading any cash based on this. Use the analysis at your own risk.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Land Banking
I went to the SMART Investment & Property Expo over the weekend and came across many different companies selling properties, land and alternatives form of investing.
One of it which attracted me was profitable plots. The sales representative told me that they will be obtaining planning permission for the land they are selling within the next 2 years and I can be looking at a hefty return of 300+%. Sounds like a pretty good deal yeah?
I was quite convinced and went back to share with my parents and asked if they were interested. My Dad being the sceptic that he was told me to hold back. I'm glad he did, and that I did not enter this implusively.
I did a search on the internet and found that Profitable Plots has some rather dubious history, and it appears that they have many dissatisfied customers. In addition, I've also found that the plot of land they are selling (Hounslow, London) is a conservation green-belt and has a next to nil probability of getting planning permission in any near future. If anyone cames across this company, or any other company for that matter, pls do your due diligence and check up the facts before participating. You could save yourself alot of pain!
One of it which attracted me was profitable plots. The sales representative told me that they will be obtaining planning permission for the land they are selling within the next 2 years and I can be looking at a hefty return of 300+%. Sounds like a pretty good deal yeah?
I was quite convinced and went back to share with my parents and asked if they were interested. My Dad being the sceptic that he was told me to hold back. I'm glad he did, and that I did not enter this implusively.
I did a search on the internet and found that Profitable Plots has some rather dubious history, and it appears that they have many dissatisfied customers. In addition, I've also found that the plot of land they are selling (Hounslow, London) is a conservation green-belt and has a next to nil probability of getting planning permission in any near future. If anyone cames across this company, or any other company for that matter, pls do your due diligence and check up the facts before participating. You could save yourself alot of pain!
Sick Sick Boi
Been feeling unwell since Sunday morning. I'm guessing I might have caught the flu bug from someone at the SMART Investment and Property Expo on Saturday. Quickly saw the Doc on Sunday and got an MC for Monday, but went back to office on Tuesday.
I decided that I'd better see the doc again to get another MC for today since I'm headed off to Genting tomorrow. Afterall, I paid good money to go Genting so I might as well make sure that I'm well enough to enjoy the trip. :)
Still having really bad cough right now, but at least the fever is gone. I was really feeling cold at office yesterday, but now in my parent's air-conditioned room with my laptop on my lap watching TV (yup... quite the life eh? :P), I'm feeling pretty comfortable. Looking forward to a nice trip over the weekend.... a much needed break from work.
I decided that I'd better see the doc again to get another MC for today since I'm headed off to Genting tomorrow. Afterall, I paid good money to go Genting so I might as well make sure that I'm well enough to enjoy the trip. :)
Still having really bad cough right now, but at least the fever is gone. I was really feeling cold at office yesterday, but now in my parent's air-conditioned room with my laptop on my lap watching TV (yup... quite the life eh? :P), I'm feeling pretty comfortable. Looking forward to a nice trip over the weekend.... a much needed break from work.
Friday, October 05, 2007
Getting Fat
And I don't mean my wallet getting fatter.... conversely, my wallet is actually getting thinner! I need to get new shoes (current one is losing its soul), new working clothes (they are getting holy). Last month we had two weddings, and my forex trading is still making a net loss although its catching up now.
But the point of the matter is.... I'm getting physically fatter!! ARGH. Last night a friend asked me why I had stopped climbing - I used to be quite a regular then. My excuses (yes, I know they are excuses) are (a) I'd been learning new stuff, like trading, (b) I need to spend time watching the markets, (c) I'd lost momentum, (d) I'd gotten lazy.
There we go... a good list of 'reasons' why I had no time to exercise and get rid of that horrible spare tyre.
The year is ending pretty soon, my goal of actually making profits before re-joining the gym isn't quite here yet. I'm wondering at some level if I should join the gym first, then look at recovering the costs from trading. But if I do that, its like spending cash before I make it.... so I need to be focused on my goals. Well, at least for now I'd been exercising abit more thanks to Weng.
Man... I need to train up more....
But the point of the matter is.... I'm getting physically fatter!! ARGH. Last night a friend asked me why I had stopped climbing - I used to be quite a regular then. My excuses (yes, I know they are excuses) are (a) I'd been learning new stuff, like trading, (b) I need to spend time watching the markets, (c) I'd lost momentum, (d) I'd gotten lazy.
There we go... a good list of 'reasons' why I had no time to exercise and get rid of that horrible spare tyre.
The year is ending pretty soon, my goal of actually making profits before re-joining the gym isn't quite here yet. I'm wondering at some level if I should join the gym first, then look at recovering the costs from trading. But if I do that, its like spending cash before I make it.... so I need to be focused on my goals. Well, at least for now I'd been exercising abit more thanks to Weng.
Man... I need to train up more....
Friday, September 21, 2007
Trading workshop
Attended my first day of Chris Loris' Forex Essentials Workshop. He's a nice person who really does seem to be sharing everything he knows. The sincere type with no airs, and seems really approachable.
Hope that these few days I'll learn even more on how to trade and get my trading skills up. The markets had been volatile lately and even Chris is taking more of a backseat. Hey... if a pro trader is making less trades, we as noobs should follow suit. hahaha.
Oh well... waiting for tomorrow's session to learn more!
Hope that these few days I'll learn even more on how to trade and get my trading skills up. The markets had been volatile lately and even Chris is taking more of a backseat. Hey... if a pro trader is making less trades, we as noobs should follow suit. hahaha.
Oh well... waiting for tomorrow's session to learn more!
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Hedging Strategy (Forex)
I was just going through my daily RSS feeds today and I came across this interesting Hedging strategy. It may not be new to the market, but it certainly is new to me.
Its pretty much range trading, and I suppose I could use other oscillating indicators to buy/sell overbought/oversold areas, which is another range trading strategy.
I'm actually tempted to test out the hedging strategy, but the down side is this: If the market breaks out of the range immediately after you hedge, you will lose money once it breaks out eitherway. So the timing better be good, and you never know when prices are going to move in a range or going to break out.
Well, if you are trading... you might want to give it a shot.
Its pretty much range trading, and I suppose I could use other oscillating indicators to buy/sell overbought/oversold areas, which is another range trading strategy.
I'm actually tempted to test out the hedging strategy, but the down side is this: If the market breaks out of the range immediately after you hedge, you will lose money once it breaks out eitherway. So the timing better be good, and you never know when prices are going to move in a range or going to break out.
Well, if you are trading... you might want to give it a shot.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
To MBA or not to MBA
Met up with Samuel, Shaun and Frank last night to try out Sam's attempt at making burgers and bread and butter pudding. Of course, we had usual other activities.... this time round its playing texas hold-em.
Anyway, to be more straight to the point, we were also talking about our work, expectations and anticipated future lifestyles and how we think we will fare. I'm not too sure what the future will hold for me, but like many others, the thought of going for an MBA did cross my mind.
Its the usual thought processes I suppose, hopefully getting a MBA will open more doors, perhaps get a promotion earlier, increase earning capacity...etc. But here's an interesting article Sam just sent me about how many financial analyst are choosing not to go for MBA..... read here to see why.
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/09/16/business/16mba.html?pagewanted=1&_r=2
Anyway, to be more straight to the point, we were also talking about our work, expectations and anticipated future lifestyles and how we think we will fare. I'm not too sure what the future will hold for me, but like many others, the thought of going for an MBA did cross my mind.
Its the usual thought processes I suppose, hopefully getting a MBA will open more doors, perhaps get a promotion earlier, increase earning capacity...etc. But here's an interesting article Sam just sent me about how many financial analyst are choosing not to go for MBA..... read here to see why.
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/09/16/business/16mba.html?pagewanted=1&_r=2
Sunday, September 02, 2007
FX Trading - Month 1 Update
I've just completed my official first month of live trading. Notwithstanding that I was on reservist for about 3 weeks, I did have a few opportunities to trade.
As of right now.... the total account is making a loss of 2.6%. I want to blame it on the volatile markets these days, but can only blame myself for not being able to hold back from entering the markets knowing that it is volatile.
Hoping that next month's performance will be better. :)
As of right now.... the total account is making a loss of 2.6%. I want to blame it on the volatile markets these days, but can only blame myself for not being able to hold back from entering the markets knowing that it is volatile.
Hoping that next month's performance will be better. :)
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Long Jing Tea
I told someone that I'll write about tea.... so here it is.
I came across this store called the Tea Bone Zen Mind Cafe which serves tea and sells really beautiful pottery - mainly those related to tea. The key reason was actually sourcing for corporate gifts, but the owner was so hospitable and really took time to share about Chinese and Tea culture. In addition, I had the opportunity to sample their 8 treasures tea and Long Jin Tea on separate occasions.
But the key topic for this is the Long Jin Tea. Supposedly only from 5 selected mountains in China, I heard the the B grade harvest for this year is only 8kg, and the A Grade, only 5kg. That explains the premium on price that these tea command. But to truly appreciate these tea, you must know how to make them! One needs to be concerned about the temperature of water, and even the PH of the water!
Done well, the Tea has a nice nutty flavour. Done poorly, it will be bitter.
I finally decided against buying any Long Jing as my mother requested, but instead bought a lower grade tea for her. If she would like to really try out Long Jin... I'll just have to bring her down to experience it herself. :)
I came across this store called the Tea Bone Zen Mind Cafe which serves tea and sells really beautiful pottery - mainly those related to tea. The key reason was actually sourcing for corporate gifts, but the owner was so hospitable and really took time to share about Chinese and Tea culture. In addition, I had the opportunity to sample their 8 treasures tea and Long Jin Tea on separate occasions.
But the key topic for this is the Long Jin Tea. Supposedly only from 5 selected mountains in China, I heard the the B grade harvest for this year is only 8kg, and the A Grade, only 5kg. That explains the premium on price that these tea command. But to truly appreciate these tea, you must know how to make them! One needs to be concerned about the temperature of water, and even the PH of the water!
Done well, the Tea has a nice nutty flavour. Done poorly, it will be bitter.
I finally decided against buying any Long Jing as my mother requested, but instead bought a lower grade tea for her. If she would like to really try out Long Jin... I'll just have to bring her down to experience it herself. :)
Old magical memories
Just met up with Jack, Cynwell and Cynwell's friend yesterday at TCC Bugis. I had ordered a magic book from Cynwell and decided that I could just get some of my magician friends to meet and catch up alittle. It has been a long time since we met, and I've been too busy to organise any magic meeting sessions.
Actually, I have long stopped practicing my magic tricks, so everything is really rusty. I can't even remember the names of the sleights and tricks anymore! So the intention was really to just catch up and see how everyone is doing. As magicians would have it, no gathering of magicians is complete without some sharing of new sleights, tricks, advice..etc. Needless to say, I'd been so out of touch that my role was mainly that of a spectator. But learning some of Cynwell's new sleights had been fun! He's quite the creative person actually. :)
The gathering actually makes me want to pick up my magic books again. But really, I need to focus on my outcomes. For now, I really need to read up on Forex and perhaps learn more about economics and learn how various market forces and indicators move the forex markets. I had been reading up on some CFA materials to get an understanding. So far, its been quite an interesting read.
Anyway, magic will have to take a queue number right now as I put other areas of my life in order. Oh well...
Actually, I have long stopped practicing my magic tricks, so everything is really rusty. I can't even remember the names of the sleights and tricks anymore! So the intention was really to just catch up and see how everyone is doing. As magicians would have it, no gathering of magicians is complete without some sharing of new sleights, tricks, advice..etc. Needless to say, I'd been so out of touch that my role was mainly that of a spectator. But learning some of Cynwell's new sleights had been fun! He's quite the creative person actually. :)
The gathering actually makes me want to pick up my magic books again. But really, I need to focus on my outcomes. For now, I really need to read up on Forex and perhaps learn more about economics and learn how various market forces and indicators move the forex markets. I had been reading up on some CFA materials to get an understanding. So far, its been quite an interesting read.
Anyway, magic will have to take a queue number right now as I put other areas of my life in order. Oh well...
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Quote of the day
"The most important thing in life is to stop saying 'I wish' and start saying 'I will.' Consider nothing impossible, then treat possibilities as probabilities."
-David Copperfield, Magician
Saturday, August 18, 2007
First High Key Reservist and Some Reflections
I just spent my past 3 weeks on my first high key reservist. I don't really have much to say about it, except that I'd met some nice people there that I'll like to keep in contact with.
Well, I'm not going to talk much about the reservist itself. In a nutshell, I had basically been performing an RP job. So its like making sure people don't bring in 'illegal' stuff and changing passes etc.
What's interesting to note actually is.... amongst the people there, I realised that I'm actually quite highly paid. There's this guy who was looking to change jobs and his expectation is about 1.5k. Granted that he holds a diploma instead of a degree, but I gradually realised that I am generally the higher paid amongst them.
That being said though, my circle of friends generally are rather well paid bunch, so in comparison, I'm actually not so highly paid. So at the end of the day, its all subjective.
Ha... funny that the main thing I write about is my salary when the key topic is reservist. Oh well... back to reality....
Well, I'm not going to talk much about the reservist itself. In a nutshell, I had basically been performing an RP job. So its like making sure people don't bring in 'illegal' stuff and changing passes etc.
What's interesting to note actually is.... amongst the people there, I realised that I'm actually quite highly paid. There's this guy who was looking to change jobs and his expectation is about 1.5k. Granted that he holds a diploma instead of a degree, but I gradually realised that I am generally the higher paid amongst them.
That being said though, my circle of friends generally are rather well paid bunch, so in comparison, I'm actually not so highly paid. So at the end of the day, its all subjective.
Ha... funny that the main thing I write about is my salary when the key topic is reservist. Oh well... back to reality....
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Get a (second) life!
Was reading through newsweek, and this article on technology caught my eye. It talks about a new occurance and how more people are spending their lives online.
Now, with MMORPG like world of warcraft, I'm not surprised that people are now living in alternative fantasy online games that provides escape from the often dull real-life that one experiences. Of course, one might argue that how interesting real-life is really depends on you, (well, having been a coach myself, that's actually a valid viewpoint!) everyone needs some plain old escapism every now and then.
But this platform seems rather different. Named "Second Life", I think this virtual world almost replicates the real world. You can choose to do the things you have always wanted to do in real life, in this simulated 3-D world. Seems abit like the Sims, but it provides you with the rest of the world to interact with.
The most interesting thing about this platform, is that it allows you to do business! Stay with me here. On the website, it appears that you can test your product contents, hold conferences and discussions...etc all in this virtual world. And what's more interesting is this: You can cash out your virtual cash in REAL CASH! There's even an exchange rate for it!! (In case you are wondering... no, that's not a currency pair I'm interested in...)
I think its cool, check it out if you have the time. You might even start some form of business there! - Think virtual business incubator! -
Now, with MMORPG like world of warcraft, I'm not surprised that people are now living in alternative fantasy online games that provides escape from the often dull real-life that one experiences. Of course, one might argue that how interesting real-life is really depends on you, (well, having been a coach myself, that's actually a valid viewpoint!) everyone needs some plain old escapism every now and then.
But this platform seems rather different. Named "Second Life", I think this virtual world almost replicates the real world. You can choose to do the things you have always wanted to do in real life, in this simulated 3-D world. Seems abit like the Sims, but it provides you with the rest of the world to interact with.
The most interesting thing about this platform, is that it allows you to do business! Stay with me here. On the website, it appears that you can test your product contents, hold conferences and discussions...etc all in this virtual world. And what's more interesting is this: You can cash out your virtual cash in REAL CASH! There's even an exchange rate for it!! (In case you are wondering... no, that's not a currency pair I'm interested in...)
I think its cool, check it out if you have the time. You might even start some form of business there! - Think virtual business incubator! -
Saturday, July 28, 2007
First Trade
I've finally activated my account and made my first trade! That was yesterday. Lets just say things have started on a positive note! Unfortunately, I'll be on reservist for the next 3 weeks (haven't even packed yet!) and am not sure if I'll be able to trade.
Haha! Trading is so cool!
Haha! Trading is so cool!
Two Wolves
One evening an old Cherokee told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people.
He said, "My son, the battle is between 2 "wolves" inside us all. One is Evil. It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.
The other is Good. It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity,truth, compassion and faith."
The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather: "Which wolf wins?"
The old Cherokee simply replied, "The one you feed."
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
My first cheque
I hate to use cheques, especially when there's a charge to maintain a current account, or the cheques are for things like ready credit that comes with a hefty interest.
That's why I forgot I even had my extrasavers account which provided cheque services for free (for now at least). Today, I'm forced to write my first cheque to open my trading account with Saxo.
Basically, Saxo only takes cheques or wire transfers (MEPS). Since wire transfers will cost me, I decided to go wtih writing a cheque. I wish that they start implementing internet banking services soon, that will make things so much more convenient.
That's why I forgot I even had my extrasavers account which provided cheque services for free (for now at least). Today, I'm forced to write my first cheque to open my trading account with Saxo.
Basically, Saxo only takes cheques or wire transfers (MEPS). Since wire transfers will cost me, I decided to go wtih writing a cheque. I wish that they start implementing internet banking services soon, that will make things so much more convenient.
Sunday, July 08, 2007
Trading!!!
I think I'm going to open a live account to trade very soon. Returns on the demo account has been great! All I need to do is to make sure I can replicate those results on a live account. And more importantly, be able to repeat its performance consistently over long periods of time.
Meanwhile, I'll be cool if I could get people to chip in and pool the cash together. Its like a mutual fund kind of thing, but just different. Any friends out there willing to take the risk with me?
Here's the system. Everyone who's willing to chip in will put their cash into a pool that... ahem... I will manage. The pool then be used for trading. The profits will be split according to the percentage contribution each person has in the total pool, and I'll take a tiny small 5% commission on the profit.
To make it simple, here is what it looks like from the viewpoint of an individual. Lets say John (imaginary character) contributed 5k.
Month Start
John's contributions : $5k
Month End
John's profits: $100
John's account less commission : $5,095
Commission charge: $5
See! Who wants to come on board??
Disclaimer: Contributers are advised to understand the risks involved. The worst case scenario is losing all your cash put in. You will not lose more than what you have contributed.
Meanwhile, I'll be cool if I could get people to chip in and pool the cash together. Its like a mutual fund kind of thing, but just different. Any friends out there willing to take the risk with me?
Here's the system. Everyone who's willing to chip in will put their cash into a pool that... ahem... I will manage. The pool then be used for trading. The profits will be split according to the percentage contribution each person has in the total pool, and I'll take a tiny small 5% commission on the profit.
To make it simple, here is what it looks like from the viewpoint of an individual. Lets say John (imaginary character) contributed 5k.
Month Start
John's contributions : $5k
Month End
John's profits: $100
John's account less commission : $5,095
Commission charge: $5
See! Who wants to come on board??
Disclaimer: Contributers are advised to understand the risks involved. The worst case scenario is losing all your cash put in. You will not lose more than what you have contributed.
Thursday, July 05, 2007
Time for Deeper Reflection
I just went out with Jeric and a colleague this evening. Jeric brought another female friend along. Though I'm not exactly anti-social, I wasn't feeling in a very social mood. So I was mainly quiet through the evening.
I realised that I hadn't really caught up with my colleague for awhile. For a time we used to go gym together, and sometimes after work we'll go out for drinks. Things seems to have changed somewhat since then.
Anyway, I digress.
My colleague reminded me of the time I was so frustrated with things at work, I sort of broke down in office. Think of it as a passive, mild kinda break down. Then my Dy Director did notice something I guess, but I wasn't sure. I was just grumpy mainly.
Things had moved on, and I had forgotten about the incident. But now that it was brought up again, a flood of emotions did suddenly resurface. I realised that my work attitude had changed somewhat, but I can't really say whether its for the better or for worse.
Operationally, I still feel like I'm leading in most of the work, although technically my other colleague (not the one I had drinks with) is the OIC. (This colleague is more senior than me, but is newer to the organisation than me.) I'm at best supposed to be 2IC. The frustration built up because I was being asked for most things, and somehow, it felt like I was accountable for most things. At the same time, I'm not actually the lead, so the responsibility for coordination, task assignment etc... shouldn't be mine. Somehow.... I was doing it.
The frustration built up, and I gradually realised that I had to take hold of the bull by the horns and manage the project. I still don't know if I will be recognised for it..... But I realised that I want the credit. I don't remember being credit conscious in the past... but now.... I want it.
My support staff passed me a document which shows the responsibility of each officer. The version of it seemed rather different in my mind, but when I saw that some of the items that I had been managing had been parked under my colleague's name.... I was angry... really angry. Actually, the angry surprised me. But, no way am I going to let someone else take the credit for what I had done, and had been doing.
In some ways, when my Dy Director left, I felt like I had to take on a larger role, and see what I can do to manage the project and lead it. So at least at the end of the day, it will be somewhat successful if not a great success. But I can't say I'm very happy doing it.
My division's size had been dropping.... and as it dropped, well, you know what happens. Some would say this is normal..... But if you look at a division who's size dropped from 4 to 2, and 1 of which is new.... you get an idea of the difference in workload.
Somewhere along the line.... I dropped going for guitar lessons, I dropped practicing magic, I finally dropped going to gym, and somewhere along the line.... climbing came to a standstill too. Many is because of the increased workload, and some - like climbing or blading - is because I want some time for myself during the weekends, or some time to do other things. I guess work-life balance got tipped somewhat.... and its never on the side that I wish for.
I started looking for ways to increase my net worth, or some ways to earn some passive income. I spent lots of time learning about investments and eventually trading. I'm now spending time learning more about it, and hopefully, it is a good way to increase my income.
I had also thought of taking CFA, but for now, I may not. Though I'm still very interested to study the materials as I think it is very useful to have that kind of knowledge.
I somehow don't really have a peace of mind these days. I'm not quite sure why yet. I do know I have been sleeping earlier, waking up later, and feeling less rested. Energy levels are dropping too.
What am I doing about it?
Trading is my one option out. Learning a new trade (pun not intended) may help increase my financial stability, and perhaps allow me more freedom in career. But more importantly, I need to know what I want. Sometimes, your passion and your practical needs can be quite different. So I'll need more time to figure out the direction I want to take. But I can't take too much time.... because it waits for no man.....
I realised that I hadn't really caught up with my colleague for awhile. For a time we used to go gym together, and sometimes after work we'll go out for drinks. Things seems to have changed somewhat since then.
Anyway, I digress.
My colleague reminded me of the time I was so frustrated with things at work, I sort of broke down in office. Think of it as a passive, mild kinda break down. Then my Dy Director did notice something I guess, but I wasn't sure. I was just grumpy mainly.
Things had moved on, and I had forgotten about the incident. But now that it was brought up again, a flood of emotions did suddenly resurface. I realised that my work attitude had changed somewhat, but I can't really say whether its for the better or for worse.
Operationally, I still feel like I'm leading in most of the work, although technically my other colleague (not the one I had drinks with) is the OIC. (This colleague is more senior than me, but is newer to the organisation than me.) I'm at best supposed to be 2IC. The frustration built up because I was being asked for most things, and somehow, it felt like I was accountable for most things. At the same time, I'm not actually the lead, so the responsibility for coordination, task assignment etc... shouldn't be mine. Somehow.... I was doing it.
The frustration built up, and I gradually realised that I had to take hold of the bull by the horns and manage the project. I still don't know if I will be recognised for it..... But I realised that I want the credit. I don't remember being credit conscious in the past... but now.... I want it.
My support staff passed me a document which shows the responsibility of each officer. The version of it seemed rather different in my mind, but when I saw that some of the items that I had been managing had been parked under my colleague's name.... I was angry... really angry. Actually, the angry surprised me. But, no way am I going to let someone else take the credit for what I had done, and had been doing.
In some ways, when my Dy Director left, I felt like I had to take on a larger role, and see what I can do to manage the project and lead it. So at least at the end of the day, it will be somewhat successful if not a great success. But I can't say I'm very happy doing it.
My division's size had been dropping.... and as it dropped, well, you know what happens. Some would say this is normal..... But if you look at a division who's size dropped from 4 to 2, and 1 of which is new.... you get an idea of the difference in workload.
Somewhere along the line.... I dropped going for guitar lessons, I dropped practicing magic, I finally dropped going to gym, and somewhere along the line.... climbing came to a standstill too. Many is because of the increased workload, and some - like climbing or blading - is because I want some time for myself during the weekends, or some time to do other things. I guess work-life balance got tipped somewhat.... and its never on the side that I wish for.
I started looking for ways to increase my net worth, or some ways to earn some passive income. I spent lots of time learning about investments and eventually trading. I'm now spending time learning more about it, and hopefully, it is a good way to increase my income.
I had also thought of taking CFA, but for now, I may not. Though I'm still very interested to study the materials as I think it is very useful to have that kind of knowledge.
I somehow don't really have a peace of mind these days. I'm not quite sure why yet. I do know I have been sleeping earlier, waking up later, and feeling less rested. Energy levels are dropping too.
What am I doing about it?
Trading is my one option out. Learning a new trade (pun not intended) may help increase my financial stability, and perhaps allow me more freedom in career. But more importantly, I need to know what I want. Sometimes, your passion and your practical needs can be quite different. So I'll need more time to figure out the direction I want to take. But I can't take too much time.... because it waits for no man.....
Monday, July 02, 2007
Future Plans
I just received my posting survey. Its part of my organisation's HR process for rotation, and according to the email, it is likely that the transfer will be effected within a year.
To be honest, I have mixed feelings about it. On one hand, I'm pretty tired of the work I'm currently doing. On the other hand, I'm not sure what I will be getting myself into when I get a transfer, or even where I will be transferring to.
Current state: Somewhat confused.
Not sure what I should do next... but I think I'll discuss with my boss and see if he has any advice. Don't think he will want to keep me in the division for too long either, but what's more important is that I need to know what I really want. That I don't have a clear idea yet.
Some criteria I have include: (a) Stable working hours so that I have time to learn my own things, (b) satisfying job - but I won't know until I'm doing it, (c) good boss - its difficult if bosses aren't good/supportive.
Oh well.... need to decide.... DECIDE!!
To be honest, I have mixed feelings about it. On one hand, I'm pretty tired of the work I'm currently doing. On the other hand, I'm not sure what I will be getting myself into when I get a transfer, or even where I will be transferring to.
Current state: Somewhat confused.
Not sure what I should do next... but I think I'll discuss with my boss and see if he has any advice. Don't think he will want to keep me in the division for too long either, but what's more important is that I need to know what I really want. That I don't have a clear idea yet.
Some criteria I have include: (a) Stable working hours so that I have time to learn my own things, (b) satisfying job - but I won't know until I'm doing it, (c) good boss - its difficult if bosses aren't good/supportive.
Oh well.... need to decide.... DECIDE!!
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Planning
I had been doing some planning since some time back. This includes what books to read, how much money to save, what interests to pursue...etc.
Taking a brief stock check, I realised that everything is skewing towards my finances. I had been reading quite abit before I had my coaching camp, but I had hardly read any self-improvement type books since. So where had I been spending all my time?
Reading investment books, planning my cashflows for the coming months/year ahead. Re-defining how much to spend, or rather type of lifestyle that I want. Lamenting about how I need more job satisfaction....
Bottomline is, reduce spending as much as possible. It is possible to live on 8 bucks a day if I become a minimalist. Of course, there's the occasional (or not so occasional during holiday periods) movie and expensive lunch/dinner. But I can actually save quite abit by living that way.
Then, I can channel the cash to investments.
As for investments, I'm still one confused individual as to whether to put my cash with a unit trust/mutual fund. The front load charges aren't appealing, and there are always ETFs that we can consider. The question is, is the financial advisor good enough to deserve that 3%.
But on the other hand, unit trusts/mutual funds provides the diversification that would be difficult to achieve on our own if we have limited capital. The transaction charges alone is enough to suck up any potential profit you may have.... so will I put my cash into a unit trust/mutual fund? No idea yet.... I must just channel the cash into trading.
Is that a wise move?? Not sure. I know I'm supposed to diversify. So perhaps I'll have a mixture of unit trusts, stocks, and FX trading. Sounds good?
On the other hand, I really should be looking another other areas of my life.... like my fitness. I'm getting fatter and fatter! haha.... I need to spend some time exercising instead of starting at charts!!! oh well....
Taking a brief stock check, I realised that everything is skewing towards my finances. I had been reading quite abit before I had my coaching camp, but I had hardly read any self-improvement type books since. So where had I been spending all my time?
Reading investment books, planning my cashflows for the coming months/year ahead. Re-defining how much to spend, or rather type of lifestyle that I want. Lamenting about how I need more job satisfaction....
Bottomline is, reduce spending as much as possible. It is possible to live on 8 bucks a day if I become a minimalist. Of course, there's the occasional (or not so occasional during holiday periods) movie and expensive lunch/dinner. But I can actually save quite abit by living that way.
Then, I can channel the cash to investments.
As for investments, I'm still one confused individual as to whether to put my cash with a unit trust/mutual fund. The front load charges aren't appealing, and there are always ETFs that we can consider. The question is, is the financial advisor good enough to deserve that 3%.
But on the other hand, unit trusts/mutual funds provides the diversification that would be difficult to achieve on our own if we have limited capital. The transaction charges alone is enough to suck up any potential profit you may have.... so will I put my cash into a unit trust/mutual fund? No idea yet.... I must just channel the cash into trading.
Is that a wise move?? Not sure. I know I'm supposed to diversify. So perhaps I'll have a mixture of unit trusts, stocks, and FX trading. Sounds good?
On the other hand, I really should be looking another other areas of my life.... like my fitness. I'm getting fatter and fatter! haha.... I need to spend some time exercising instead of starting at charts!!! oh well....
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Taking a breather
Its been a long awhile since I wrote my entry. Sometimes I wonder if anyone is still reading it. But in anycase, it will serve as a good collection of my past even if no one else reads all these entries.
I just met up with meng today as its his birthday in a few days time. Had a nice meal at some german restaurant at vivo, and chatted about how each other is doing and what's new in our lives. It has really been awhile since we caught up with each other like that.
Life has been pretty hectic, and I shall not rant about my work life which I generally go have some things to get off my chest from time to time. Sometimes, there are many things on my mind, but I gradually realise that they are generally not very encouraging stuff... so more and more... I'm sharing less and less. No one likes to meet up with someone who has nothing but negativity.
So that means that, I have to work towards more positive things in my life. Or more new things in my life to move it towards the direction that I want. Am I successful in that? Its too early to tell, but there are some fundamental mindset changes that I need to go through.
Looking back on my past few years, it seems like so much has happened and progressed. People change, friends getting attached and married, colleagues leaving the company, new challenges in life, changes in lifestyle (or lack thereof)....
I really don't have the words to complete this entry right now.... :) Perhaps I'll continue another day, or later. But I'll leave you with a thought... one that just popped into my mind with regards to changes.
Here's the version that I remember.....
"Not all things can be done incrementally or by parts, somethings require a single huge effort. Afterall, you can't cross a chasm in two small leaps."
And here's the version I found from the internet:
‘Do not be afraid to take a big step if one is indicated. You cannot cross a chasm in two small jumps.’ — David Lloyd George
I just met up with meng today as its his birthday in a few days time. Had a nice meal at some german restaurant at vivo, and chatted about how each other is doing and what's new in our lives. It has really been awhile since we caught up with each other like that.
Life has been pretty hectic, and I shall not rant about my work life which I generally go have some things to get off my chest from time to time. Sometimes, there are many things on my mind, but I gradually realise that they are generally not very encouraging stuff... so more and more... I'm sharing less and less. No one likes to meet up with someone who has nothing but negativity.
So that means that, I have to work towards more positive things in my life. Or more new things in my life to move it towards the direction that I want. Am I successful in that? Its too early to tell, but there are some fundamental mindset changes that I need to go through.
Looking back on my past few years, it seems like so much has happened and progressed. People change, friends getting attached and married, colleagues leaving the company, new challenges in life, changes in lifestyle (or lack thereof)....
I really don't have the words to complete this entry right now.... :) Perhaps I'll continue another day, or later. But I'll leave you with a thought... one that just popped into my mind with regards to changes.
Here's the version that I remember.....
"Not all things can be done incrementally or by parts, somethings require a single huge effort. Afterall, you can't cross a chasm in two small leaps."
And here's the version I found from the internet:
‘Do not be afraid to take a big step if one is indicated. You cannot cross a chasm in two small jumps.’ — David Lloyd George
Sunday, May 27, 2007
Rants
I realised that ...
... I hadn't met many people for a long time.
... I hadn't touched my guitar for a long time.
... I should be making more effort to get back to church
... I needed coach often as long as I know those I coach have had postive changes
... Its more important to me form deeper friendships with those I coach than coaching many people
... my fitness level has dropped by a large margin.
... I'm not really satisfied about alot of things.
I wish that...
... I had more cash. (Who doesn't?)
... I had more time to practice magic.
... I can draw close to God again.
... I feel better about the work that I do.
... I had people whom I feel comfortable enough towards to call up at anytime to talk about anything.
... I am fitter.
... I know what I really want for the long term.
I'm grateful for...
... my family.
... all my friends I'm come to know.
... all my close friends and buddies. (You deserve separate mention).
... my experiences in coaching
... having coached wonderful people
... Singapore's stability
... I hadn't met many people for a long time.
... I hadn't touched my guitar for a long time.
... I should be making more effort to get back to church
... I needed coach often as long as I know those I coach have had postive changes
... Its more important to me form deeper friendships with those I coach than coaching many people
... my fitness level has dropped by a large margin.
... I'm not really satisfied about alot of things.
I wish that...
... I had more cash. (Who doesn't?)
... I had more time to practice magic.
... I can draw close to God again.
... I feel better about the work that I do.
... I had people whom I feel comfortable enough towards to call up at anytime to talk about anything.
... I am fitter.
... I know what I really want for the long term.
I'm grateful for...
... my family.
... all my friends I'm come to know.
... all my close friends and buddies. (You deserve separate mention).
... my experiences in coaching
... having coached wonderful people
... Singapore's stability
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Setting up a Trading Account
Man! I swear that POEMS has one of the worst customer service around! ok, that sets the tone of this blog... :P
I was planning to get myself a CFD account on top of the normal cash management account, so I decided to go down to Boon Keng Investment Centre (heck! There's one near my office too, but I thought that wasn't a service type outlet.). Well I was served by a new lady who knew nuts about practically anything. She had the nerve to tell me everything is on the website, and for more info on CFD, I can call the CFD hotline. If that's the case, what's the point of hiring her?? Pissed....
Anyway, so my cash management account is finally up, but the instructions on how to settle payment is highly unclear! So how?? Rubbish right?? Argh.... so I just dropped them an email....
ok... enough ranting...
I was planning to get myself a CFD account on top of the normal cash management account, so I decided to go down to Boon Keng Investment Centre (heck! There's one near my office too, but I thought that wasn't a service type outlet.). Well I was served by a new lady who knew nuts about practically anything. She had the nerve to tell me everything is on the website, and for more info on CFD, I can call the CFD hotline. If that's the case, what's the point of hiring her?? Pissed....
Anyway, so my cash management account is finally up, but the instructions on how to settle payment is highly unclear! So how?? Rubbish right?? Argh.... so I just dropped them an email....
ok... enough ranting...
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Fundamental vs Technical
I'm referring to investments, just in case some of you are wondering.
Some of you may recall me writing about wanting to go into investments sometime back. Afterall, living from paycheck to paycheck doesn't really help you build your capital or help you with your retirement plans. Some of you are thinking... what? Planning for retirement already? I kid you not.... if I could, I'd retire tomorrow. :) Wouldn't you?
We need to look for ways to increase our pay, ways to build passive income, and ways to grow capital. So investments is really one of the ways to do so.
And by investments, I don't mean like just buy a stock or share because you think it might go up.... and its kind of an intuition thing.... that's how my mum trades. And no matter how much I nag her, she insists that she hadn't lost much, and had infact gained some. Strange thing is... most people only remember their wins and write off their losses. I wonder how much to believe her... haha
So how else to go into investing? There are two schools of thought. One is Fundamental Analysis, the other is Technical Analysis.
Fundamental Analysis
Fundamental analysis checks the health of a company to identify if the stock is a good one to hold. Generally, stocks with good P/E ratios (that's Price-to-Earning ratios) and good financial status...etc, tend to grow over long periods of time. At least 5-7 years I think... most recommend 20 yr timespan (See why planning for retirement starts now?? haha)
Most people will recommend a long term, 'lazy' investor approach. And use something called dollar cost averaging. Generally, with a good portfolio (this means good selection of stocks, indexes, mutual funds, bonds...etc for diversity as well), one can expect about 10% per annum returns over the long run.
Technical Analysis
Technical analysis is the subtle (or not so subtle?) art of reading charts. Basically, it identifies trends and rides on up and down trends to maximise returns (Something fundamentalist strongly disagree with). Personally, I think there's some truth in TA. So I'll give it a short.
I'm still pretty new to all these... but I'm going to test these things virtually on my virtualstockexchange account to see which is better. :)
Some of you may recall me writing about wanting to go into investments sometime back. Afterall, living from paycheck to paycheck doesn't really help you build your capital or help you with your retirement plans. Some of you are thinking... what? Planning for retirement already? I kid you not.... if I could, I'd retire tomorrow. :) Wouldn't you?
We need to look for ways to increase our pay, ways to build passive income, and ways to grow capital. So investments is really one of the ways to do so.
And by investments, I don't mean like just buy a stock or share because you think it might go up.... and its kind of an intuition thing.... that's how my mum trades. And no matter how much I nag her, she insists that she hadn't lost much, and had infact gained some. Strange thing is... most people only remember their wins and write off their losses. I wonder how much to believe her... haha
So how else to go into investing? There are two schools of thought. One is Fundamental Analysis, the other is Technical Analysis.
Fundamental Analysis
Fundamental analysis checks the health of a company to identify if the stock is a good one to hold. Generally, stocks with good P/E ratios (that's Price-to-Earning ratios) and good financial status...etc, tend to grow over long periods of time. At least 5-7 years I think... most recommend 20 yr timespan (See why planning for retirement starts now?? haha)
Most people will recommend a long term, 'lazy' investor approach. And use something called dollar cost averaging. Generally, with a good portfolio (this means good selection of stocks, indexes, mutual funds, bonds...etc for diversity as well), one can expect about 10% per annum returns over the long run.
Technical Analysis
Technical analysis is the subtle (or not so subtle?) art of reading charts. Basically, it identifies trends and rides on up and down trends to maximise returns (Something fundamentalist strongly disagree with). Personally, I think there's some truth in TA. So I'll give it a short.
I'm still pretty new to all these... but I'm going to test these things virtually on my virtualstockexchange account to see which is better. :)
Thursday, April 05, 2007
Quote of the day
"I find it fascinating that most people plan their vacations with better care than they plan their lives. Perhaps that is because escape is easier than change."
Jim Rohn
Author and Speaker
Monday, April 02, 2007
Strengths and Weaknesses
I was reading one of the book summaries from BestSummaries.com and since I'm thinking of rotation right now, it does have some relevance to my thoughts at this point in time.
This is an executive summary of the book "Now, Discover your strengths" by Marcus Beckingham and Donald O. Clifton. And the following quote struck me in particular. Here it is below for your reading pleasure and reflection. :)
This is an executive summary of the book "Now, Discover your strengths" by Marcus Beckingham and Donald O. Clifton. And the following quote struck me in particular. Here it is below for your reading pleasure and reflection. :)
Are there any obstacles to building my strengths?Yes. Apart from obstacles, if any, contributed by the current organization you are in, your own reluctance will keep you from building your strengths. This reluctance usually comes about from fear: fear of one’s weakness, fear of failure and fear of one’s true self. You must remember that working to improve your weaknesses only serves to prevent you from failing. It does not allow you to reach out towards excellence. Many people have taken what they thought were their strengths, polished them and find that they still failed. What you must understand is that learning about yourself through performance builds your strengths too. It is irresponsible to resist cultivating your strengths. Other people don’t realize their strengths because they’ve taken these aspects of their lives for granted. There is a constant need to investigate one’s self, lest the true value of one’s strengths be lost.
Friday, March 30, 2007
Our Deepest Fear
One of the A-Coaches was kind enough to encourage everyone with a note. On it was an inspirational poem by Marianne Williamson which had been used in a few movies, one of it being Coach Carter. I thought I'd share it here. :)
-------------
Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate,Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us.We ask ourselves,Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?Actually, who are you not to be?
You are a child of God.Your playing small doesn’t serve the world.There’s nothing enlightened about shrinkingso that other people won’t feel insecure around you.We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us.It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone.
And as we let our own light shine,we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.As we’re liberated from our own fear,our presence automatically liberates others.--Marianne Williamson
Needing Motivation
Been feeling somewhat less motivated these days. And it seems to permeate most areas of my life right now.
Personal
I had not been able to follow the plan I designed at the beginning of the year. Somewhat behind most of my goals such as reading of books, learning things... etc.
I'll need to sit down and re-plot my goals from now... actually its a good thing to review my goals every quarter or even more frequently. Actually... right now is a perfect time if I want to do quarterly reviews!
On a brighter note, some things did get moving. I had finally stopped the GIRO payment for my ILP (Bad idea to get into one in the first place...) and starting another insurance policy at the advice of my Financial Advisor. Next step is to get my SINGPASS and check how much CPF funds I have left to invest.
Career
Its coming to 2 years since I started work. To recap, I decided to go to where I am instead of doing technical work or programming work, and one of the key reasons was to put myself out of my comfort zone and see what other things I can learn. There are other skill areas to pick up.
Being in the same division for the 2 years, I think I'm now yearning for a change. To be honest, my bosses now aren't bad, so it is kind of a risk if I were to request for the change. I guess the same concept of moving out of comfort zone applies.... how else can a person grow?
Firstly, I'll need to check with my scholarship officer to find out what my options are.... I might rotate out of the organisation and try my hand at tech stuff again if that's possible. Alternatively, I can also rotate to another division, if I can quickly decide which one is the best route to take.... argh... I'm so confused!
Health & Fitness
Had stopped climbing for quite awhile.... Chow's been busy studying... I'd been slacking off, and apple had been asking me when we're going to climb. Actually, Jason had been asking too.
Think I'll get back to climbing again soon... haha, its so seasonal for me....
I had also stopped going gym for quite awhile.... well, the lacking of motivation part is one of it, the other I suppose is that I want to get too many things done at the same time. The concurrent pulling in multiple directions doesn't get one anywhere, and that's why I need to sit down and sort out my priorities again....
ZZZzzz... feeling rather tired now... haha... well, it is ridiculous to be up so early.... zzzzzzz
Personal
I had not been able to follow the plan I designed at the beginning of the year. Somewhat behind most of my goals such as reading of books, learning things... etc.
I'll need to sit down and re-plot my goals from now... actually its a good thing to review my goals every quarter or even more frequently. Actually... right now is a perfect time if I want to do quarterly reviews!
On a brighter note, some things did get moving. I had finally stopped the GIRO payment for my ILP (Bad idea to get into one in the first place...) and starting another insurance policy at the advice of my Financial Advisor. Next step is to get my SINGPASS and check how much CPF funds I have left to invest.
Career
Its coming to 2 years since I started work. To recap, I decided to go to where I am instead of doing technical work or programming work, and one of the key reasons was to put myself out of my comfort zone and see what other things I can learn. There are other skill areas to pick up.
Being in the same division for the 2 years, I think I'm now yearning for a change. To be honest, my bosses now aren't bad, so it is kind of a risk if I were to request for the change. I guess the same concept of moving out of comfort zone applies.... how else can a person grow?
Firstly, I'll need to check with my scholarship officer to find out what my options are.... I might rotate out of the organisation and try my hand at tech stuff again if that's possible. Alternatively, I can also rotate to another division, if I can quickly decide which one is the best route to take.... argh... I'm so confused!
Health & Fitness
Had stopped climbing for quite awhile.... Chow's been busy studying... I'd been slacking off, and apple had been asking me when we're going to climb. Actually, Jason had been asking too.
Think I'll get back to climbing again soon... haha, its so seasonal for me....
I had also stopped going gym for quite awhile.... well, the lacking of motivation part is one of it, the other I suppose is that I want to get too many things done at the same time. The concurrent pulling in multiple directions doesn't get one anywhere, and that's why I need to sit down and sort out my priorities again....
ZZZzzz... feeling rather tired now... haha... well, it is ridiculous to be up so early.... zzzzzzz
Friday, March 23, 2007
Mai-HiME
Just finished watching Mai-HiME which my colleague lent me. I must say, the anime is pretty good! Think I spent about 3-4 days to complete the whole thing. Hahaha.... its the same for every anime... I'll store power and not watch it because of work or other committments, but once I start, it really doesn't take long for me to complete watching it. :P
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Moive and IT Show
Went to catch "Pursuit of Happyness" (No typo here, its really "Happyness") with Xun and Jack. The movie had no climax and was a good effort to communicate the life and struggles of the lead actor.
Not a brillant show, but certainly has some subtle learning points in there.
After that went down to IT Show to get some stuff. Had somethings in mind for office and for myself, but with the horrendous crowd, I quickly lost interest. After getting my office stuff, all I had time to get for myself was a Times Magazine Subscription. Well, my newsweek subscription was coming to an end, and I thought it was pretty dry. So I decided I'll give Times a shot. And what comes free with it.... Fortune Magazine. Well, its better than a chess set that I will probably never use, and have no place to display.
Not a brillant show, but certainly has some subtle learning points in there.
After that went down to IT Show to get some stuff. Had somethings in mind for office and for myself, but with the horrendous crowd, I quickly lost interest. After getting my office stuff, all I had time to get for myself was a Times Magazine Subscription. Well, my newsweek subscription was coming to an end, and I thought it was pretty dry. So I decided I'll give Times a shot. And what comes free with it.... Fortune Magazine. Well, its better than a chess set that I will probably never use, and have no place to display.
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Coaching Preparation
The Coach camp is nearing! In fact there's one going on right now. Too bad I'll need work on Mon-Wed, don't think I can take a full 5 days off for two camps. But well, one camp should be a good experience for me too.
I hadn't been contacted yet with information on the details on preparation for the camp. On my own though, my thought mechanisms had been running. And I have a few ideas I would like to put to the test.
1) Its always difficult to get participants to break the ice initially. Sometimes, what bonds people is what they have in common. Be it hobbies, or simply having come from the same school. So what I have in mind for the first task.... is for them to find similarities with each other. There're two ways I can go about doing this. Firstly, is for them to pair up and simply find as common areas as possible in those pairs. Alternatively, I can just let them move around and find 3 common areas with 3 other people. Which do you think will be more effective? :P
2) Aligning Expectations. Sometimes for adult seminars, expectations are clarified and then reviewed if they are met at the end of the course. Since the target audience are now... young adults... I'm not so sure if this approach will work too. But never know until I put it to the test... so perhaps this camp is good testing ground.
3) Eliciting Criteria. I may not have the time for this part, but it may be good to ask them "what has to happen before they will enjoy themselves and put in their best?" This will elicit the criteria which can then be used to motivate or urge them. Its kind of an unconscious agreement, you tell me what has to happen for you to do X, and when it is fulfilled, the person should rightfully be compelled to do X. Still not sure if that would work, and perhaps I should keep it for another camp....
That's all I have for now.... there are other tricks up my sleeve.... but I don't think can test everything out in a single camp. :)
I hadn't been contacted yet with information on the details on preparation for the camp. On my own though, my thought mechanisms had been running. And I have a few ideas I would like to put to the test.
1) Its always difficult to get participants to break the ice initially. Sometimes, what bonds people is what they have in common. Be it hobbies, or simply having come from the same school. So what I have in mind for the first task.... is for them to find similarities with each other. There're two ways I can go about doing this. Firstly, is for them to pair up and simply find as common areas as possible in those pairs. Alternatively, I can just let them move around and find 3 common areas with 3 other people. Which do you think will be more effective? :P
2) Aligning Expectations. Sometimes for adult seminars, expectations are clarified and then reviewed if they are met at the end of the course. Since the target audience are now... young adults... I'm not so sure if this approach will work too. But never know until I put it to the test... so perhaps this camp is good testing ground.
3) Eliciting Criteria. I may not have the time for this part, but it may be good to ask them "what has to happen before they will enjoy themselves and put in their best?" This will elicit the criteria which can then be used to motivate or urge them. Its kind of an unconscious agreement, you tell me what has to happen for you to do X, and when it is fulfilled, the person should rightfully be compelled to do X. Still not sure if that would work, and perhaps I should keep it for another camp....
That's all I have for now.... there are other tricks up my sleeve.... but I don't think can test everything out in a single camp. :)
IT Show
Been thinking of going down to the IT show. But feeling rather reluctant since there will be an unreal crowd there. The plan was to go down at 12noon when its just open, but I was watching EarthSea DVD and kinda forgetten the time.
I need to get a wireless presenter for work, and perhaps get a few DVD-R and CD-R for myself. May be a thumbdrive too.
Seriously though, is there a need to squeeze with the crowd and all? Popping by Sim Lim or Funan wouldn't be all that bad, not would there be such a huge difference in price. Often times, the stores at Sim Lim or Funan are the ones who are manning the booths at the IT Show and are able to provide the same offers as found in the IT Shows.
So why do people still want to go down to the IT Show? I've no idea, and may head down there tomorrow myself. Perhaps its the Buzz of it all.....
I need to get a wireless presenter for work, and perhaps get a few DVD-R and CD-R for myself. May be a thumbdrive too.
Seriously though, is there a need to squeeze with the crowd and all? Popping by Sim Lim or Funan wouldn't be all that bad, not would there be such a huge difference in price. Often times, the stores at Sim Lim or Funan are the ones who are manning the booths at the IT Show and are able to provide the same offers as found in the IT Shows.
So why do people still want to go down to the IT Show? I've no idea, and may head down there tomorrow myself. Perhaps its the Buzz of it all.....
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Coaching in March (Part 2)
Coach Training and the Coach Selection is over. And I'm coaching for the IAG camp. That's Sec1 to JC2 kidz.
It appears that they do not have enough people who are available to coach for the SK camp this time round, and they are asking if I would like to coach that camp. Actually, I would like to do so if I could spare the time. But I have a divisional outing that I really should not miss, and I don't think taking a full 5 days of leave is an appropriate thing to do.
So this time round, I think I'll just coach the IAG camp. Perhaps in the June Holidays I'll stagger my time abit more and coach for more camps.
I wonder who my a-coach will be....
It appears that they do not have enough people who are available to coach for the SK camp this time round, and they are asking if I would like to coach that camp. Actually, I would like to do so if I could spare the time. But I have a divisional outing that I really should not miss, and I don't think taking a full 5 days of leave is an appropriate thing to do.
So this time round, I think I'll just coach the IAG camp. Perhaps in the June Holidays I'll stagger my time abit more and coach for more camps.
I wonder who my a-coach will be....
Sprain Back
Was playing badminton with Dave on Sunday night, and ended up spraining my back. Argh, that evil man made me run all over the court! Left! Right! Front! Back! What's worse is that he loves to give those super near the net, super low shots that you must almost dive for.
I think I sprained my back receiving one of those shots!
Must really admit that I'm getting old liao le.....
I think I sprained my back receiving one of those shots!
Must really admit that I'm getting old liao le.....
Sunday, March 04, 2007
Meeting old friends & old tutor passing on...
Just met up with my council friends, and really wasn't expecting to stay till 1.30am. But we did.
Just a couple of thoughts before I go to bed
1) Sometimes I really don't realise how much I miss my friends until I see them again.... erm... you understand right?
2) We realised that my CT Tutor in JC has just passed on. She was an extremely nice person whom I deeply respected. She will be missed greatly. I'm wondering if I should head down for the wake. Guess I'll check with my class and see what they say... Sigh... life is fragile. I guess at certain age, the frailty of life becomes more apparent.
Just a couple of thoughts before I go to bed
1) Sometimes I really don't realise how much I miss my friends until I see them again.... erm... you understand right?
2) We realised that my CT Tutor in JC has just passed on. She was an extremely nice person whom I deeply respected. She will be missed greatly. I'm wondering if I should head down for the wake. Guess I'll check with my class and see what they say... Sigh... life is fragile. I guess at certain age, the frailty of life becomes more apparent.
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Coaching in March
The next Coaching Camp is coming and Mar... and I'm thinking of participating. I must say, its rather irritating that for some reason I'm not on their mailing list.
Anyway, now have the option of coaching pri sch kidz or Sec sch kidz. I'd already experienced the pri sch kidz, now wondering if I should give the sec sch one a shot, or to coach the pri sch one again. Afterall, I'm now more familiar with it, and had some learning points from my previous coaching experience.
On the other hand, the age gap is smaller if I coach the sec sch kidz, and perhaps it will be easier to build rapport. Its the age where they are challenge others more too though. Hmm... choices choices.... :P
In anycase, I need to see if I can get leave for those days, otherwise its all talk.... haha... but coaching is definately a good source of variety in my life. Ever thought of getting coached myself too.... but getting professionally coached is just way to expensive.... and lots of time committment.
Anyway, now have the option of coaching pri sch kidz or Sec sch kidz. I'd already experienced the pri sch kidz, now wondering if I should give the sec sch one a shot, or to coach the pri sch one again. Afterall, I'm now more familiar with it, and had some learning points from my previous coaching experience.
On the other hand, the age gap is smaller if I coach the sec sch kidz, and perhaps it will be easier to build rapport. Its the age where they are challenge others more too though. Hmm... choices choices.... :P
In anycase, I need to see if I can get leave for those days, otherwise its all talk.... haha... but coaching is definately a good source of variety in my life. Ever thought of getting coached myself too.... but getting professionally coached is just way to expensive.... and lots of time committment.
Happy Chinese New Year
Seasons Greetings to all, though this is somewhat late.
Yesterday was "Ren Ri" or the birthday of humans (so says the people on radio!), so technically, its EVERYONE's birthday. Come to think of it, us Chinese really age quickly.... :P We have normal calendar Birthday, our Chinese Birthdays, and this CNY Birthday.... so technically we have 3 birthdays a year.... that makes me... 78 this year??
haha, enough of crapping.
Not withstanding that this is a horrendous period where work is concerned, I thought I'd focus on how the CNY has been.
Generally, managed to catch up with a great many people surprisingly. And by that I mean my friends rather than family because as far a family is concerned, it appears to be lesser and lesser.
Lets see.... I went to
a) Yonghui's GF place (actually, was just dropping him off after blading, but then decided to drop by to see the huge doggie.... :P )
b) Samuel's place (Overnight Majong and PS)
c) Yonghui's place (Majong again! This is where I learnt that a "Cai Wei" or "Fortune Position" really exists! )
d) Edwin's place (Had steamboat with his family and one of his friends. And there's a little kid who clings onto me asking me to teach him magic... heee. Well, at least got to meet up just before he flew back to Aussie.)
e) Peihan's place ( nice condo overlooking two other condo's swimming pools instead of her own! hahaha)
By far, that's the most visiting I'd done in years.... hahaha.
Well... Wishing everyone a happy new year and many good returns... Huat ha!
Yesterday was "Ren Ri" or the birthday of humans (so says the people on radio!), so technically, its EVERYONE's birthday. Come to think of it, us Chinese really age quickly.... :P We have normal calendar Birthday, our Chinese Birthdays, and this CNY Birthday.... so technically we have 3 birthdays a year.... that makes me... 78 this year??
haha, enough of crapping.
Not withstanding that this is a horrendous period where work is concerned, I thought I'd focus on how the CNY has been.
Generally, managed to catch up with a great many people surprisingly. And by that I mean my friends rather than family because as far a family is concerned, it appears to be lesser and lesser.
Lets see.... I went to
a) Yonghui's GF place (actually, was just dropping him off after blading, but then decided to drop by to see the huge doggie.... :P )
b) Samuel's place (Overnight Majong and PS)
c) Yonghui's place (Majong again! This is where I learnt that a "Cai Wei" or "Fortune Position" really exists! )
d) Edwin's place (Had steamboat with his family and one of his friends. And there's a little kid who clings onto me asking me to teach him magic... heee. Well, at least got to meet up just before he flew back to Aussie.)
e) Peihan's place ( nice condo overlooking two other condo's swimming pools instead of her own! hahaha)
By far, that's the most visiting I'd done in years.... hahaha.
Well... Wishing everyone a happy new year and many good returns... Huat ha!
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
Food for Thought
"You are different, just like everyone else."
So are you different from, or same as everyone? :P
Monday, January 08, 2007
Investing Journey
Met up with Laihock (my sec sch tutor) when he came back to Sg for awhile.
Its quite strange when we (Laihock and myself) think about it, because for each year that he's overseas, we hardly corresponded over emails and he's not on MSN; yet, when he's back in Sg there seems to be so much to talk about. Even more interestingly, though there's little correspondance, our interest and topics usually seem to move in the same direction!
This time round, the key topic is investments!
Anyway, he told me that US is a good market to invest in. Firstly, unlike Sg, we do not need to purchase in lots of 1000, so that means greater flexibility. Secondly, US Markets have extremely high volume compared to Sg. This means that its easier to sell any stocks, and much lower brokerage fees! (Where do you think the brokers' bonus of 6-9 months come from??) Thirdly, there's readily available information and discussion on US Market stocks.
I've summarised my list of investment-related internet links below:
Infomation
Google Finance
Yahoo Finance
iShares (For index stocks)
Reuters
Business Week
Barron's Online
The Wall Street Journal
Brokerage
Interactive Brokers (Talk about low brokerage fees, they charge US$1 for each 200 shares traded)
Scot Trade (Flat rate brokerage fees, good if you buying alot of shares in one go)
Its quite strange when we (Laihock and myself) think about it, because for each year that he's overseas, we hardly corresponded over emails and he's not on MSN; yet, when he's back in Sg there seems to be so much to talk about. Even more interestingly, though there's little correspondance, our interest and topics usually seem to move in the same direction!
This time round, the key topic is investments!
Anyway, he told me that US is a good market to invest in. Firstly, unlike Sg, we do not need to purchase in lots of 1000, so that means greater flexibility. Secondly, US Markets have extremely high volume compared to Sg. This means that its easier to sell any stocks, and much lower brokerage fees! (Where do you think the brokers' bonus of 6-9 months come from??) Thirdly, there's readily available information and discussion on US Market stocks.
I've summarised my list of investment-related internet links below:
Infomation
Google Finance
Yahoo Finance
iShares (For index stocks)
Reuters
Business Week
Barron's Online
The Wall Street Journal
Brokerage
Interactive Brokers (Talk about low brokerage fees, they charge US$1 for each 200 shares traded)
Scot Trade (Flat rate brokerage fees, good if you buying alot of shares in one go)
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
The Moral of the Story is....
LESSON 1
A junior manager, a senior manager and their boss are on their way to a meeting. On their way through a park, they come across a wonder lamp. They rub the lamp and a ghost appears. The ghost says, "Normally, one is granted three wishes but as you are three, I will allow one wish each."
So the eager senior manager shouted, "I want the first wish. I want to be in the Bahamas, on a fast boat and have no worries." Pfufffff, and he was gone.
Now the junior manager could not keep quiet and shouted "I want to be in Florida with beautiful girls, plenty of food and cocktails." Pfufffff, and he was also gone.
The boss calmly said, "I want these two idiots back in the office after lunch at 12.35pm."
*MORAL OF THE STORY: ALWAYS ALLOW THE BOSSES TO SPEAK FIRST*
LESSON 2
Standing in front of a shredder with a piece of paper in his hand. "Listen," said the CEO, "This is a very sensitive and important document, and my secretary has left. Can you make this thing work?"
"Certainly," said the young executive. He turned the machine on, inserted the paper, and pressed the start button.
"Excellent, excellent!" said the CEO as his paper disappeared inside the shredder machine. "I just need one copy."
*MORAL OF THE STORY: NEVER, NEVER ASSUME THAT YOUR BOSS KNOWS EVERYTHING*
LESSON 3
There were these 4 guys, a Russian, a German, an American and a French, who found this smallgenie bottle. When they rubbed the bottle, a genie appeared. Thankful that the 4 guys had released him out of the bottle, he said, "Next to you all are 4 swimming pools, I will give each of you a wish. When you run towards the pool and jump, you shout what you want the pool of Water to become, then your wish will come true."
The French wanted to start. He ran towards the pool, jumped and shouted "WINE". The pool immediately changed into a pool of wine. The Frenchman was so happy swimming and drinking from the pool.
Next is the Russian's turn, he did the same and shouted, "VODKA" and immersed himself into a pool of vodka.
The German was next and he jumped and shouted, "BEER". He was so contented with his beer pool.
The last is the American. He was running towards the pool when suddenly he slipped on a banana peel. He slipped towards the pool and shouted, "SHIT!!!!!!!........."
*MORAL OF THE STORY: THINK TWICE BEFORE YOU SAY SOMETHING, BECAUSE SOMETIMES ACCIDENTS DO HAPPEN*
LESSON 4
The organs of the body were having a meeting, trying to decide who was in charge. Each organ took a turn to speak up:
Brain: I should be in charge because I run all body functions.
Blood: I should be in charge because I circulate oxygen for the brain.
Stomach: I should be in charge because I process food to the brain.
Legs: I should be in charge because I take the brain where it wants to go.
Eyes: I should be in charge because I let the brain see where it's going.
Asshole: I should be in charge because I get rid of yourwaste.
All the other parts laughed so hard and this made the asshole very mad.
To prove his point, the a**hole immediately slammed tightly closed and stayed that way for 6 days, refusing to rid the body of any waste whatsoever.
Day 1 - Brain got a terrible headache and cried out for relief
Day 2 - Stomach got bloated and began to ache terribly
Day 3 - Legs got cramps and became unstable
Day 4 - Eyes became watery and vision became blurred
Day 5 - Blood became toxic and poisoned the body
Day 6 -The other organs agreed to let the a**hole be in charge.
*MORAL OF THE STORY: NO MATTER WHO YOU ARE, OR HOW IMPORTANT YOU THINK YOU ARE, YOU WILL FIND THAT IT IS ALWAYS THE A**HOLE THAT IS IN CHARGE.
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