Saturday, January 31, 2015

Cash Is Still King - As Per The Recent Survey By Manulife

Cash is still king in 2015 - at least as per the recent survey done by Manulife on 500 people polled online. 

As per the image on the left, 25 percent will "invest" in cash more than any other assets. While stocks/equities came in second (with 21 percent).

What I don't quite understand from the result is this : 25 percent of people pooled viewed that stocks/equities will be the top performer in 2015. However, only 21 percent of them willing to invest in this asset more? Is it because they are more risk-averse this year or they themselves is not very confidence with their view in the first place? ;-)

Two other interesting side result of the survey are :

1. On average, cash constituted 36 percent of their total asset allocation.

2. Cash holding of local investors are equivalent to 46 months of income (significantly higher than the average of 24 months across the whole of Asia). 

Personally, I will invest more in stocks/equities as well as Reits from 2015 onward but because I am a real small retail investor at the moment, "more" is kind of subjective term. 

What about you? Will you be keeping more cash or investing more in stocks in 2015?

Cheers!

Friday, January 30, 2015

Market News In 2 Minutes @ 30th January 2015

As stock investors (even though a small one), it is important to keep abreast with the latest financial and market news. Since I am in it, I thought it might be worthwhile to share it out with my readers too.

Hence, I started this "Market News In 2 Minutes" series.

Following are the "Market News In 2 Minutes" for today :

1. Far East Orchard (O10) - Its wholly owned subsidiary, OPH Marymount (OPHM), has entered into a transaction with Transurban Properties, disposing its interest in two properties on Bassein road for a sum of $38.1 million. (Source : Shares Investment)

2. Midas Holdings (5EN) - Announced that its joint venture company, Nanjing SR Puzhen Rail Transport Co, secured a Rmb1.7 billion metro train contract from Shanghai Rail Transit Line 13 Development Co. The project is scheduled to be delivered by 2017. (Source : Shares Investment)

3. Thakral Corporation (T04) - Together with its subsidiary Thakral Capital Holdings (TCH), has entered into a share sale agreement to acquire 49 percent of Thakral Capital Australia (TCAP) from four vendors. TCH will allot and issue 0.3 million new shares in its capital at $80.80 per share to the vendors in consideration of the proposed acquisition, diluting Thakral Corporation’s shareholding interest by up to 25 percent upon completion of the share sales agreement. (Source : Shares Investment)

Cheers!

Thursday, January 29, 2015

Finally, My Turn To Be Interviewed!

If you are a frequent visitor to my blog, you might noticed that I have an "Interview With Peer Bloggers" blog series and my last interviewee is a youngster called Kendrick, owner of A Peek Into An Oddball Teen's Mind (his interview post can be found here).

Today, it is my turn to be interviewed...by him...not in my own blog of course! ;-)

Kendrick just started his interview blog series and I am honored to be his first "target". As his blog title implied, his style is destined to be wacky, funny and oddball. So, lots of Singlish and dialect to be expected in his posts. 

I've met him twice over the meal and I must say that he really started his entrepreneur/investing journey at a very young age and full of energy and ideas to chiong big time....I do foresee that he has a bright future.

Now, check out my interview post in his blog here (P/S : You will see a shockingly funny photo of me at his post.. so enter at your own risk ;-)). If you have any further questions/queries about my story/journey so far, you can either comment at his post or here. 

Cheers! 

Market News In 2 Minutes @ 29th January 2015

As stock investors (even though a small one), it is important to keep abreast with the latest financial and market news. Since I am in it, I thought it might be worthwhile to share it out with my readers too.

Hence, I started this "Market News In 2 Minutes" series.

Following are the "Market News In 2 Minutes" for today :

1. REITS : AIMS AMP Capital Industrial (O5RU) - Its gross revenue rose 8.8 percent to $29.7 million for the third quarter ended 31 December 2014, attributable to rental contribution from newly completed properties (103 Defu Lane 10 and Phase2E of 20 Gul Way). Consequently, as the expansion in rental income outpaced the rise in expenses, 3Q15 income available for distribution grew 21 percent to $14.6 million and a distribution per unit (DPU) of $0.0277 has been declared for the quarter. (source : Shares Investment)

2. REITS : CapitaRetail China Trust (AU8U) - A DPU of $0.0248 for fourth quarter ended 31 December 2014 has been posted. The DPU represents a 12.7 percent rise from the 2.2 cents DPU a year ago. Net property income grew 30.1 percent to $33.5 million mainly due to a stronger yuan against the Singapore dollar. (source : Shares Investment)

3. Ntegrator International (5HC) - Has secured four contracts worth $10.7 million for projects in Singapore, Vietnam and Myanmar. The contracts entail the provision of various supplies and equipment as well as installation, testing and commissioning services for the telecommunication sector. (source : Shares Investment)

4. Terratech Group (40I) - Has entered into an agreement to acquire the entire stake three Chinese companies (collectively referred to as Meilian Changchi) that produces and sells marble tiles and marble mosaic tiles, which is seen to allow greater efficiencies and cost savings. The consideration will be paid in the form of 186 million new shares in the group, representing approximately 23.2 percent of the enlarged share capital and is worth an estimated $15.4 million.  (source : Shares Investment)

Cheers!

Wednesday, January 28, 2015

I Fall For Three Out Of These Five Investing Myths

Last week, pop-by the National Library during one of the lunchtime period and managed to loan one of the investing book titled "Taking Charge With Value Investing" (by Brian Nichols, 2013 edition). The reason why I pick-up the book at random is because of its cover, showcasing a fierce looking half-face bull (don't ask me why I find it appealing as I also can't explain why ;-))

I am still half way through the book, so far, I find it quite a good and easy read, especially from value investing perspective. In the early chapter of the book, Brian shared 5 common investing myths that I personally can attest to, at least 3 of them. I find them interesting and relevant and hence like to share it in my blog here.

I am sure there are more myths than the five that I am going to relate from the book, but at least these are the common few.

Here are the five investing myths commonly told by the nay-Sayers :

1. People who invest are RICH

2. Investing is too COMPLEX

3. I CAN'T do it myself

4. I must take RISKS to be successful

5. I don't have the TIME

All of them are self-explanatory and hence no further explanation required. Sound familiar to you?

Personally, I used to fall for myths #1, #2 and #4. What about you? Have you ever (or are still) fall for any of the above mention investing myths?

Cheers!

Market News In 2 Minutes @ 28th January 2015

As stock investors (even though a small one), it is important to keep abreast with the latest financial and market news. Since I am in it, I thought it might be worthwhile to share it out with my readers too.

Hence, I started this "Market News In 2 Minutes" series.

Following are the "Market News In 2 Minutes" for today :

1. REITS : Cache Logistics Trust (K2LU) - For the fourth quarter ended 31 December 2014, it announced a 0.4 percent dip in revenue to $20.6 million, while net property income dipped 1 percent to $19.4 million due to vacancies and tenants’ rent-free period, as well as higher property maintenance expenses and lease commissions. Distributable income rose 1 percent to $16.8 million. Distribution per unit rose 0.4 percent to $0.02146, bringing the full-year distribution per unit to $0.08573. (source : Shares Investment)

2. REITS : CDL Hospitality Trusts (J85) - For the fourth quarter ending 31 December 2014, it posted a 14.4 percent rise in revenue to $45.1 million, attributed to the recognition of the full quarter’s hotel revenue from Jumeirah Dhevanafushi and a $1.3 million rental boost from Angsana Velavaru in the Maldives. Net property income grew by 6 percent to $38.6 million. Distributable income rose 7.8 percent to $34.1 million. A distribution per stapled security of $0.0313 was declared, a 7.2 percent jump year-on-year, bringing its full-year distribution to $0.1098. (source : Shares Investment)

3. REITS : CitySpring Infrastructure Trust (A7RU) - For the third quarter ended 31 December 2014, it reported a 7.3 percent fall in revenue to $120 million, due to lower contributions from its operating assets, City Gas, SingSpring and Basslink. Higher operating expenses, due to a Hydro Tasmania dispute settlement of AUD6 million, dragged the trust into a net loss position of $10.7 million. Distributions per unit remained constant at $0.0082, bringing year-to-date distribution to $0.0246. (source : Shares Investment)

4. Hoe Leong Corporation (H20) - Has agreed to sell its 49 percent stake in Semua International, an oil tanker and transport logistics company in Malaysia, to Reachmont Logistics and Asia Bioenergy Technologies, as Semua has been performing below expectations. The consideration of RM168 million will either be satisfied in cash, or shares in Asia Bioenergy Technologies. (source : Shares Investment)

5. REITS : Mapletree Greater China Commercial Trust (RW0U) - For the third quarter ending 31 December 2014, it reported revenue of $73.6 million, a 12 percent year-on-year jump. Net property income hit $59.3 million, 10.2 percent above that of 3Q14. Distributable income was 11 percent higher year-on-year at $45.1 million. A distribution per unit of $0.01662 was declared, 17 percent higher compared to its target. This brought its year-to-date distributions to $0.04815(source : Shares Investment)

6. Olam International (O32) - Redeemed US$750 million bonds due 2018 on 27 February, at 103.4 percent of the principal amount together with unpaid accrued interest. (source : Shares Investment)

7. REITS : OUE Hospitality Trust (SK7) - For the fourth quarter ended 31 December 2014, it saw a 4.8 percent growth in its revenue to $30.4 million due to better per-unit revenues in its hotel and retail assets. Net property income rose 5.5 percent to $27 million. Distributable income hit $23.6 million, a 7.5 percent rise from the previous year. A distribution per unit of $0.0178 was declared, bringing distribution per unit for the year to $0.0674. (source : Shares Investment)

8. REITS : Parkway Life (C2PU) - For the fourth quarter ended 31 December 2014, Parkway Life  disclosed a 1.5 percent increase in revenue to $25.1 million, due to higher rent from Singapore properties and rental contributions from Japanese properties acquired in 2H13 and in 2014. Net property income was $23.5 million, up 1.3 percent. Distributable income rose 2.9 percent to $17.5 million. The trust declared a distribution per unit of $0.029, a 2.8 percent rise from the previous year, bringing FY14 distribution per unit to $0.1152. (source : Shares Investment)

9. REITS : Starhill Global (P40U) - For its fourth quarter ended 31 December 2014, it saw a 0.4 percent fall in revenue to $48.9 million, due to weaker contributions from Renhe Spring Zongbei in China and Japanese properties. Net property income grew 2 percent to $39.6 million, as property expenses were lower. Distributable income went up by 6.6 percent to $29.1 million. The trust declared a distribution per unit of $0.0129, 4.9 percent higher year-on-year, bringing total distribution per unit for the year to $0.0505. (source : Shares Investment)

Cheers!

Tuesday, January 27, 2015

Market News In 2 Minutes @ 27th January 2015

As stock investors (even though a small one), it is important to keep abreast with the latest financial and market news. Since I am in it, I thought it might be worthwhile to share it out with my readers too.

Hence, I started this "Market News In 2 Minutes" series.

Following are the "Market News In 2 Minutes" for today :

1. REITS : OUE Commercial REIT (TS0U) - Announced a DPU of 1.44 cents for the 4Q ended December 2014. This is 5.1% higher than forecasted. It delivered gross revenue of $71.5 million in FY2014, 3.6% increase over the forecast and the Net Property Income (NPI) of $53.8 million was 7% ahead of forecast. (source : The Edge Singapore)

2. CapitaLand (C31) - Its CapitaMalls Malaysia Trust signed a sales and purchase agreement with Tropicana City, to acquire Tropicana City Mall and Tropicana City Office Tower at a consideration of RM540 million. Post-acquisition, gearing ratio of CapitaMalls Malaysia Trust will increase from 28.8 percent to 39.5 percent. (source : Shares Investment)

3. JES International Holdings (EG0) - Has entered into a shares subscription agreement with Brilliant Choice International and Sun Yiyi, to which the latter parties will subscribe for 183 million new JES shares at a discounted price of $0.036 each. The subscription shares will represent 15.2 percent of existing issued shares and will increase the share capital of the company by $6.6 million. Proceeds raised will be used to pay off part of an amount owed to JES Overseas Investment. (source : Shares Investment)

4.  Viva Industrial Trust (T8B) - For the fourth quarter ending 31 December 2014, it reported revenue of $16.6 million, 8.7 percent better than forecasted. Net property income came in 8.6 percent higher at $11 million. Distributable income was at $10.3 million, a slight 1.6 percent off target. The group announced a distribution per stapled security of $0.01701, hitting below the mark by 0.7 percent, bringing total distribution per security for FY14 to $0.06833. (source : Shares Investment)

Cheers!

Let The Cash Flow To Create A Good Cashflow


No, I am not about to talk about the Cashflow board game from Robert Kiyosaki. This blog title was inspired by the giant cover sheet of the Financial Times (gotten it free at the counter of my company today). It is an advertisement from Visa in promoting their new business solution in helping the businesses in collecting payment. It reads "MAKE CASH FLOW".
 
I think there are more than one way to interpret this slogan. But before that, let's be mindful that cashflow consists of inflow as well as outflow. It can be interpreted as :
 
"Make CASH flow (as fast/smooth as possible)"

OR

"Make CASHFLOW (the efficient and effective way)"

Either way, I do believe that we need to maintain a fluid cash flow (both inflow or outflow) to ensure that there are regular financial exchanges so as to move ahead financially. Of course, with the aim to accumulate more assets than liability along the way ;-P

Cheers!

Monday, January 26, 2015

There Are More Ways To Invest Your Money

Today, met up with two entrepreneur friends (one local and one from Malaysia) for lunch at Raffles City. We get to know each other from a recent bloggers meet-up session in Penang (click here , here and here to see my previous posts).

Stock investment is one of the topic in our discussion, the counterpart from Malaysia (she is a lady) shared that she has loss quite a big sum of money in stock previous and hence would not touch the forbidden vehicle again. Whereas the local one is clueless about stock investment at all and seems to switch-off when we are at this topic. 

So, they invested their money and time in their own start-ups. Both of them have their respective online businesses (no, not those affiliate marketing or MLM type of businesses but proper businesses dealing with apps development and marketing stuff). Of course, the key is not about their money or businesses, it is how we invest our money? 

There are more than one way to INVEST (our money), we need to follow our heart and determine which way(s) closer to our heart. Of course, we can always invest in our business as well as stocks at the same time as they are not mutually exclusive. In fact, many of the seasoned investors are doing this to create multiple streams of income.  

The key here is : There are more ways to invest your money... 

Are you entrepreneur-cum-investor yourself? How do you juggle the roles? 

Cheers!

Market News In 2 Minutes @ 26th January 2015

As stock investors (even though a small one), it is important to keep abreast with the latest financial and market news. Since I am in it, I thought it might be worthwhile to share it out with my readers too.

Hence, I started this "Market News In 2 Minutes" series.

Following are the "Market News In 2 Minutes" for today :

1. CapitaLand (C31) - Its wholly owned subsidiary The Ascott has secured contracts to manage three more properties with over 300 apartment units in Beijing and Hong Kong, of which two are from a strategic alliance in Beijing while the third will be Ascott’s fifth Hong Kong property. The contracts will further reinforce Ascott’s leadership position as the largest international serviced residence owner-operator in China, with over 12,900 apartment units in 72 properties across 23 cities. (source : Shares Investment)

2. DeClout (5UZ) - Has announced the acquisition of approximately 0.5 million new shares in Corous360 for $7.4 million, which were supposed to be allotted and issued to JTech Mobile. The issuance served as part of Corous360′s payment for its $4.7 million acquisition of Netipay. DeClout and JTech Mobile entered into another agreement on 23 January, under which JTech has irrevocably renounced in favour of DeClout all rights, title and interest in the shares, and has undertaken to procure the allotment and issuance of Corous360 shares to DeClout. The payment will then be satisfied in full by the allotment and issuance of 32 million new shares in DeClout to JTech, representing 9.3 percent of existing shares. (source : Shares Investment)

3. Fraser and Neave (F99) - Its Malaysian subsidiary has secured a 22-year licensing agreements with Nestle, to manufacture and distribute the various brands of Carnation, Bear Brand, Bear Brand Gold, Ideal Milk and Milkmaid in ASEAN including Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia and Brunei. The agreements will extend the licensing term granted by Nestle on 1 February 2007. Fraser and Neave plans to invest THB300 million on a new filling and packaging line at the manufacturing plant in Rojana, Thaliand, to cater to growing demands. (source : Shares Investment)

4. WE Holdings (5RJ) - Has announced plans to issue 4.2 billion warrants at $0.001 each that could raise up to $16.7 million, which will go towards working capital use, and the financial flexibility for acquisition opportunities and potential growth. Separately, the group has acquired the entire capital of Philippines based integrated environment service provider, Maritrans Recycler for no less than US$2 million, to be paid in equal portion of cash and shares. (source : Shares Investment)

Cheers!

Saturday, January 24, 2015

Privatizing Of Keppel Land by Keppel Corp - Two Side Of Reactions

So now we know why the Keppel Corporation's (BN4) counter was halted since Wednesday (21/01/2015), from the report that I read this morning, Keppel Corp is in the move to take their property arm, Keppel Land (K17) private. 

If the deal went through, it will be one of the biggest privatizations in recent year with a whopping $3.2 billions at stake. So, what is the deal? 

Keppel Corp will offer $4.38 per share of Keppel Land (this is about 20 percent above Keppel Land's last traded price of $3.65 on Tuesday). To top it off, it will bump up the price to $4.60 apiece if it manages to buy the whole company (which is 26% premium ).

Note :
The Net Asset Value (NAV) for Keppel Land as at 31 Dec 2014 is $4.95. 
The Net Asset Value (NAV) for Keppel Corp as at 31 Dec 2014 is $5.73 and its last traded share price is $8.10 on Tuesday (which is traded at 41% premium)

Whether you are currently holding the counter or not (if yes, some of you might be smiling wide wide already), there are always two side of reactions to such news (especially we are talking about a blue chip counter here) i.e. :

The Happy Bunch :
If you are an existing shareholder and went in with the short-term trading mindset, you can reap the fruits immediately without the need to wait for the stock to chiong upwards.

If you are currently not an existing shareholder, there is one less stock for you to analyse lol  

The Not So Happy Bunch :
If you are an existing shareholder and went in with the long-term investing mindset, you might find it a short-changed deal (since the offer price, even the bump up offer is below the NAV). Also, you might view it as losing one dividend yield cash-cow.  

If you are currently not an existing shareholder, there is one less stock for your to take advantage with lol

Personally, I am not vested in both Keppel Corp and Keppel Land and I belongs to the "Happy Bunch" camp. ;-)

So, which camp are you in?

Cheers! 

Friday, January 23, 2015

Market News In 2 Minutes @ 23rd January 2015

As stock investors (even though a small one), it is important to keep abreast with the latest financial and market news. Since I am in it, I thought it might be worthwhile to share it out with my readers too.

Hence, I started this "Market News In 2 Minutes" series.

Following are the "Market News In 2 Minutes" for today :

1. REITS : Ascendas (A17U) -  Announced an 11.2 percent rise in gross revenue to $171.7 million. The increase was due to the recognition of rental income from Hyflux Innovation Centre that was acquired in June 2014 and Aperia that was acquired in August 2014. Higher occupancies at Nexus@one-north and A-REIT City@Jinqiao as well as positive rental reversion also contributed to the higher revenue. Net property income margin fell 3.6 percentage points from 70.3 percent in 3Q14 to 66.7 percent in 3Q15 as operating expenses were relatively higher. Distributable income rose 1.6 percent to $86.4 million. A distribution per unit of $0.0359 was declared, a 1.4 percent increase from the previous year. (source : Shares Investment)

2. REITS : Ascott Residence Trust (A68U) - Revenue rose 13.2 percent to $95 million due to additional revenue from the acquisitions and stronger contributions from existing properties. Gross profit margin fell 1.5 percentage points from 49.6 percent in 4Q13 to 48.1 percent in 4Q14. Distributable income rose 25.9 percent to $33.1 million. A distribution per unit of $0.0216 was declared for the quarter, rising 62.4 percent from the previous year, bringing total distribution per unit for the year to $0.082. (source : Shares Investment)

3. REITS : CapitaMall Trust (C38U) - Saw a 2.2 percent rise in revenue to $165.2 million due to an increase in revenue from all malls except IMM and JCube. Net property income margin fell 4.2 percentage points from 68.3 percent in 4Q13 to 64.1 percent in 4Q14, due to a 27.6 percent rise in other property operating expenses. Distributable income rose 5 percent to $99.1 million. A distribution per unit of $0.0286 was declared, 5.1 percent higher than the previous year, bringing the full year distribution per unit to $0.1084. (source : Shares Investment)

4. REITS : Frasers Commercial Trust (ND8U) - Saw a 23.3 percent rise in revenue to $35.5 million. The growth was due to increased income from the underlying leases of Alexandra Technopark and China Square Central and 55 Market Street. Net property income margin fell 5.2 percentage points from 76.9 percent in 1Q14 to 71.8 percent in 1Q15 as property tax more than doubled and maintenance expenses surged 58.5 percent. Distributable income rose 22 percent to $16.7 million. The trust declared a distribution per unit of $0.024608, a 20.1 percent rise from the previous year. (source : Shares Investment)

5. REITS : Suntec REIT (T82U) - Reported a 7.3 percent rise in revenue to $76.8 million, due to the opening of Suntec Singapore and completion of Phase 2 of the asset enhancement works in Suntec City mall. Net property income margin fell 0.5 percentage points from 69.5 percent in 4Q13 to 69 percent in 4Q14 largely due to a 20.9 percent rise in other property expenses. Distributable income increased by 10.8 percent to $64.6 million, boosted by improved contributions from Suntec Singapore and income received from 177 Pacific Highway in North Sydney, Australia. The trust declared a distribution per unit of $0.02577, a 0.6 percent increase from the previous year, bringing the full-year distributions per unit to $0.094. (source : Shares Investment)

Cheers!

Thursday, January 22, 2015

Financial Freedom Is No Panacea Of Happiness

Many of the us (retail investors) are searching for the Holy Grail that enable us (quickly or gradually) to achieve the ultimate goal of financial freedom. It might mean rigorous saving and/or clever investing (or so we thought). If you are the luckier one, it might be a smooth sailing process, however, if you are not (that lucky), it might be a long and hard journey before reaching the goal.    

Without a doubt, many peer investors/bloggers here have achieved the goal. Kudos to them. Having said that, financial freedom does not automatically lead to happiness (in life), which is a bigger thing (to me)! 

You might have all the money in the world, but your soul still be as hollow (as before). Hence, while we are searching for that Holy Grail, let's not forgetting to live our life to the fullest and enjoying/appreciating what we've got. The key is NOT to wait until we achieve financial freedom but do it NOW. 

What is the point of achieving financial freedom if you feel that life is a misery?

What is the point of achieving financial freedom if you treat 5 cents bigger than cattle wheel (I am exaggerating here)? 

What is the point of achieving financial freedom if by then the one that concern you more is medical cost?

Don't get me wrong, I am still advocating savings and the importance of maintaining a strong personal financial position. just like to remind all of us not to have lopsided focus and conveniently omit the true meaning of living. ;-)

Cheers!

Market News In 2 Minutes @ 22nd January 2015

As stock investors (even though a small one), it is important to keep abreast with the latest financial and market news. Since I am in it, I thought it might be worthwhile to share it out with my readers too.

Hence, I started this "Market News In 2 Minutes" series.

Following are the "Market News In 2 Minutes" for today :

1. REITS : Fortune REIT (F25U) - For the full year ended 31 December 2014, it saw a rise in revenue by 25.7 percent to HK$1.7 billion. This is the strongest growth since FY06, on the back of solid occupancy rates, record-breaking rental reversion across the portfolio and full year income stream from Fortune Kingswood. Net property income margin fell 0.4 percentage point from 70.5 percent in FY13 to 70.1 percent. Distributable income rose 21.5 percent to HK$780.8 million. A final distribution per unit of HK$0.208 was declared, bringing full year DPU to HK$0.4168, an increase by 15.8 percent from the previous year. (source : Shares Investment)

2. Fragrance Group (F31) - Its subsidiary Fragrance TAS-Hobart has on Wednesday acquired a property at 171 Macquarie Street, Tasmania for AUD1.5 million ($1.6 million). The property has a freehold tenure, with a land size of 525 square metres and is currently classified in the “central commercial and administrative” zone. (source : Shares Investment)

3. Frasers Centrepoint (TQ5) - Announced on behalf of Sinomax International, its indirect wholly owned subsidiary, that an agreement to sell its entire stake in Beijing Sin Hua Yan Real Estate Development Co to Beijing Haina Junan Investment Co for Rmb357.4 million ($76.6 million) in cash. The divestment is in line with the group’s plan to streamline and divest its non-core business, and to focus on the main activities of the group. (source : Shares Investment)

4. REITS : Mapletree Commercial Trust (N2IU) -  For the third quarter ended 31 December 2014, it saw a 6.5 percent rise in revenue to $72.9 million due to a higher rental income from VivoCity and PSA Building. Net property income margin rose 2.9 percentage points from 72.2 percent in 3Q14 to 75.1 percent, given lower utilities expense, lower tariff rates as well as savings in the costs of organizing marketing and promotional events at the retail malls. Distributable income rose 13 percent to $43.8 million. A distribution per unit of $0.0208 was declared, an increase of 11.5 percent from the previous year. (source : Shares Investment)

5. REITS : Sabana Shari’ah Compliant (M1GU) - For the fourth quarter ended 31 December 2014, saw a rise in revenue of 1.9 percent to $25.3 million. Net property income margin fell 8.3 percentage points from 80.1 percent in 4Q13 to 71.8 percent. Distributable income fell 14.8 percent to $12.9 million. A distribution per unit of $0.0178 was declared, a decrease by 18.7 percent from the
previous year. (source : Shares Investment)

Cheers!

Wednesday, January 21, 2015

Market News In 2 Minutes @ 21st January 2015

As stock investors (even though a small one), it is important to keep abreast with the latest financial and market news. Since I am in it, I thought it might be worthwhile to share it out with my readers too.

Hence, I started this "Market News In 2 Minutes" series.

Following are the "Market News In 2 Minutes" for today :

1. REITS : CapitaCommercial Trust (C61U) -  For the fourth quarter ended 31 December, it reported a 3.1 percent increase in gross revenue to $66.4 million driven by higher rental rates and occupancies. Net property income margin remained flat at 76.3 percent. Distributable income to unitholders rose 5.7 percent to $63.6 million. Distributions per unit rose 2.9 percent to $0.0215, bringing the full-year distribution per unit to $0.0846. (source : Shares Investment)

2. RETIS : Mapletree Industrial Trust (ME8U) - For the third quarter ended 31 December 2014, it reported an increase in gross revenue by 3.3 percent to $78.1 million because of higher rental rates of renewal leases, as well as contributions from its completed development projects. Net property income margin rose 1.5 percentage points from 72.7 percent in 3Q14 to 74.2 percent in 3Q15, due to lower operating expenses. Amount available for distribution rose by 9 percent to $46 million despite a fall in interest income and a rise in borrowing costs. Distribution per unit rose by 6.4 percent to $0.0267. (source : Shares Investment)

3. Rex International Holding (5WH) - Announced that its subsidiary Carribean Rex completed the drilling of three wells in Trinidad & Tobago. Of the three, two are deemed to be commercial with substantial net pay sands. The company was able to lower drilling costs by 40 percent below budget, costing less than US$1 million per well. In a separate filing, Rex announced it made a NOK13.7 million subscription of Fram Exploration shares, increasing its stake from 22.3 percent to 30.3 percent after completion. The company also disclosed its decision to take in account the lower implied valuation of its associated company Fram Exploration to address impairment effects on the book value of its equity stake in Fram Exploration. This may result in larges losses for FY14 compared to FY13. (source : Shares Investment)

Cheers!

Tuesday, January 20, 2015

What Do You Think About The "Reversed 52 Weeks Saving Challenge"?

52 weeks of saving challenge
Just awhile ago, having a lengthy group chat with peer financial bloggers (you know who you are ;-)) and one of the topic discussed is : SAVING. Yes, one of the key element in personal finance is saving, it should come even before thinking about investing. 

Suddenly, I remembered a TV commercial that I watched in Melbourne a week ago which is also related to saving, it is called "52 weeks saving challenge". With this challenge, you can save $1,378 a year (excluding interest, if any) easily. It is a simple challenge by starting to save $1 for week 1, $2 for week 2, $3 for week 3 etc... till week 52. See sample table below for better illustration :


Of course, $1,378 (plus interest if you were to save it in the bank) might not be a big amount to many but it is a good start to promote the habit of saving. Just treat it as additional bonus lor! 

While searching through the Google, I chanced upon a blog post about "Reversed 52 Weeks Saving Challenge", which I thought is more interesting. As the name implied, basically it is still the similar challenge and the only difference is to reverse the amount you are saving weekly. In short, you are to save $52 in Week 1, $51 in Week 2, $50 in Week 3 etc... till $1 in Week 52. 

The overall yearly saved amount is still the same for both challenges ($1,378) but if we were to save the money in bank, the reversed method will attract more compounded interest. Some might say that to save $50+ per week upfront might be a challenge but the same challenge will still be applicable for the original challenge, the only difference is whether to face it earlier or later. 

What do you think?

Cheers!

Market News In 2 Minutes @ 20th January 2015

As stock investors (even though a small one), it is important to keep abreast with the latest financial and market news. Since I am in it, I thought it might be worthwhile to share it out with my readers too.

Hence, I started this "Market News In 2 Minutes" series.

Following are the "Market News In 2 Minutes" for today :

1. REITS : Keppel Infrastructure Trust (LH4U) - For the year ended 31 December 2014, , its revenue fell 2.5 percent to $65.5 million, because of lower finance and operations and maintenance income. Operating margin fell 1.9 percentage points from 21.9 percent in FY13 to 20 percent in FY14. Consequently, net profit fell 10.4 percent to $12.7 million. Earnings were lower due to higher output from the waste-to-energy plants and higher operation and maintenance tariffs as well as higher trust expenses. Distribution per unit for the year remained at $0.0782. (source : Shares Investment)

2. REITS : Keppel REIT (K71U) - Its revenue for FY14 rose 5.8 percent to $184.1 million, despite absence of contribution from Prudential Tower which was divested in September 2014. Net property income margin rose 2.8 percentage points from 79.5 percent in FY13 to 82.3 percent in FY14. However, a 31.4 percent decline in rental support and a 45.5 percent drop in revaluation gains caused income available for distribution to fall 3.7 percent to $206.1 million. Distribution per unit for FY14 fell 8.2 percent to $0.0723. (source : Shares Investment)

3. REITS : Mapletree Logistics Trust (M44U) - Has released financial reports for 3Q15, stating a 6.2 percent rise in revenue to $82.9 million due to contributions from six properties acquired in China, Singapore, Malaysia and South Korea in FY15, as well as contribution from Mapletree Benoi Logistics Hub and higher revenue from existing Singapore assets. Net property income margin fell 2.5 percentage points from 86.3 percent in 3Q14 to 83.8 percent in 3Q15. Total amount distributable to unitholders for the period rose 2.7 percent to $46.2 million. Distribution per unit increased by 1.6 percent to $0.0187. (source : Shares Investment)

Cheers!

Monday, January 19, 2015

Interview With Kendrick Of A Peek Into An Oddball Teen's Mind

It has been more than 3 months since my last "Interview Series" post, I am pleased to share that I've found my next "target" ;-)

He is a young chap (I called him "Ah Boy") with vast experience in personal finance stuff, ranging from precious metals to stock investing to business start-up. His name is Kendrick, owner of A Peek Into An Oddball Teen's Mind. Mind you, he is only 18 years old and is still schooling. He is very oddball (that explains why the name of his blog) and like to "piak" Singlish and Hokkien. 

I met him once and have a chance to chat with him during a meal session. He strikes me as someone with big dreams and will make it big one day (Ah Boy : remember to keep smiling regardless of which state of your life, OK?) 

Oh, wonder why I am using the image of Doreamon in this post (In fact, he is the one send this image to me)? The reason being that he is as cute as Doreamon (physically) ;-)  

Without further ado, let's take a look on how Kendrick responded to my interview questions in his oddball and Singlish style.  

Enjoy!

Q1 : Can you give us a brief introduction about yourself?
Q1 : I’m a full time polytechnic student at Temasek Polytechnic , a full time Business person , full time financial literacy advocate, a full time investor and an occasional trader. Oh my , what a mouthful! Oh and I look like the uglier version of an over sized doraemon :p 

Q2 : Are you a full time or part-time investor at the moment?
A2 : I’m a full time investor.

Q3 : When (at what age) did you start investing in shares and who has influenced you the most?
A3 : I started dabbling in shares when I was about 14, about 4 years ago? I think I was inspired by this news article of a successful investor earning a million a year then ? Then $1m is like $5m now? haha 

Q4 : Do you view yourself as long-term (holding shares in years), short-term investor (holding shares in days/months) or mixture?
A4 : Definitely both , I can’t be holding just a defensive portfolio now , can I?

Q5 : What is your basis of selecting the shares to invest (e.g. basing on fundamental analysis, technical analysis or other methods/sources [share a little bit more details if it is the latter])?
A5 : Wah , this one I have to attribute to my “anyhow hantam theory” le . Well, I guess I use FA and my gut feel , sometimes TA but rarely . For FA I would look at the Assets the company have and how much “liquid” assets it can use to save itself should it screw up and need the $ to bump cashflow up.

Then I look at the liabilities and bump the figure up by 80% and see if the biz model is viable , if it is , then I’ll look at who is running the company , the industry it is in , industry standards for the past three year as comparison and loads of other stuff where now I feel I can “use my gut” to go lar , then I decide whether I wanna buy. Oh yah , I need to mention this , I only buy stuff that I can sleep with and sleep peacefully and soundly at night :)

Q6 : What is your targeted and achieved annual rate of returns (%) so far? 
A6 : My targeted rate of returns : 60 %
My achieved rate of returns : Average out my portfolio , my yearly returns is about 35-40% , with silver being the most “shiok” and “ho chiak” thing till date kekeke , 60% in 3 yrs…. ! 

Q7 : What is your most recommended online investing resource (site or blog) to share with our readers?
A7 :  Ah! Lai Lai , I list out for u! 
1) The Russian Gun (ASSI AK) , 
2) The Japan named blog :p (Kenji Wealth Mgmt) 
3) Uncle Rich’s blog! (Invest Openly) 
4) Bully the bear 
5) SGYI 
6)TeenageInvesting 
7) Epsilon Luxe 
8) My blog, if you’re bored kekeke and can tahan enough singlish to feed you for a year 
9) Investopedia
10) Book of singlish if you can’t figure out my blog 

Q8 : Besides shares, what other investment are you involved in (e.g. Real Estates, Bonds or REITs etc)?
A8 : Hehehehe, well I’m vested in IGPM , Investment Grade Precious Metals (ie, gold , silver , platinum) physical ones only , I’m an advocate for it :) It is also my business lar , my investments include Shares , both in listed and in start-ups , physical precious metals and well I still can’t get over the idea of owning half a basin somewhere in Telok Blangah :p (please infer)

Q9 : What is your current Shares Investment portfolio size (in range, no need specific)? 
A9 : Ok , so here goes nothing. My portfolio is in the low-five figure range , my portfolio distribution looks like this : Out of the 30% in shares , 45% in pennies , 40% in mid-cap , 15% in blue chips. For IGPM , 40% gold , 59% Silver , probably 1% platinum.



Q10 : If the readers want to get in touch with you, how to get hold of you? (Sharing of your website/blog/social media profile etc..)
A10 : See what pattern you wanna chut , you can add me on Facebook (Kendrick Goh) , Instagram, Twitter , email me at ken-inc@hotmail.com , visit my blog at kgwj.blogspot.sg or worst come to worst if u wanna drink kopi, look for uncle rich , he’ll be my “gatekeeper” ( don't know if he is willing bo? ;-) [after note from uncle richard : yes, I am happy to]

Last but not least, if you are a retail investor and would like to be featured in my "Interview With The Fellow Investors" blog series, please feel free to email me at investopenly@gmail.com

Also, for the complete list of my interviewees and their posts, check it out here.

Cheers!

Market News In 2 Minutes @ 19th January 2015

As stock investors (even though a small one), it is important to keep abreast with the latest financial and market news. Since I am in it, I thought it might be worthwhile to share it out with my readers too.

Hence, I started this "Market News In 2 Minutes" series.

Following are the "Market News In 2 Minutes" for today :

1. CNMC Goldmine Holdings (5TP) - Has announced the mutual termination of its joint venture agreement involving Menteri Besar Incorporated (Perak) and its subsidiary, entered into on 5 December 2013. (source : Shares Investment)

2. Keppel Land (K17) - Has signed a conditional agreement to secure a 4.6-hectare site for IDR381.9 billion (approximately $40.2 million) in West Jakarta. The company will subsequently enter into a sales and purchase agreement for the site to be developed as a high-rise condominium. The site is strategically located within the growth corridor of West Jakarta, with accessibility to business districts, lifestyle hubs and a 15-minute drive to the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. (source : Shares Investment)

3. Unionmet (A6F) - Has entered into a non-binding memorandum of understanding with SG Support Service (SGSS) to acquire 49 percent stake in SGSS. SGSS is the one of four Singapore companies which has the license to collect water & oil sludge and has over 50 heavy vehicles. Unionmet believes there are possible synergies between its oil-blending business, including the provision of water and oil sludge to Biofuel Research for treatment. (source : Shares Investment)

4. Blumont (A33) - has withdrawn its takeover bid for Melin Diamonds. The termination comes after Merlin triggered a breach of a defeating condition set under its 7th supplementary bidder's statement announced to the SGX on 6th Jan. (source : The Edge Singapore)

5.  Centurion Corp (OU8) - Announced it is exploring the feasibility of establishing a REIT. Centurion said the establishment and listing of the REIT would allow the company to recycle capital to pursue its growth strategies across its growing accommodation business. (source : The Edge Singapore)

Cheers!

Sunday, January 18, 2015

Some Key Observations In Melbourne City (Number 2 and 3 Do Save Some Money)

I AM BACK! ;-)

As some of you might know, I was away for two weeks and am now back to the warm place called HOME.  For the past 15 days, I was in Kangaroo-land, Melbourne. Since there are only 3 hours time difference and 7-hours plus flight, not suffering much from jet-lag and hence back to my regular posting routine, starting from this post.

Since my experience in Melbourne is still fresh and hence thought maybe it is good idea to share some of my observation/experience in Melbourne City. Not to worry, this is not a travel or food blog and hence I will not share stuff like tourists attraction/food that I have been visited ;-) Rather, I will be sharing some day-to-day observation from tourist perspective. Some of them can save you some money if you are planning to visit Melbourne anytime soon. 

Here we go...

1. The conventional marketing/advertisement method are still going strong.
Melbourne is a vibrant city with many high rise buildings and strong coffee culture. One observation that I had is related to how the businesses are promoting their products/services. I am surprised that many of them are still stick to the conventional method e.g. the distribution of physical leaflets, cinema advertisement and TV advertisement. 

I've watched a couple of movies in cinema in Melbourne (in case you don't know, I am a movie buff and one of the must do itinerary in my oversea trip is to visit cinemas/theaters. If happens that you are about to do the same in Melbourne, do prepare to wait for up to 25 minutes of those pre-show advertisements (including trailers). Also, their TV programs are filled with many advertisements (many of them are related to insurance products, for whatever reason). Lastly, check out some of the movie promotional leaflets that I've collected:


2. Cash Is King In Melbourne
Do take note that Cash is still king in Melbourne city (actually it applies everywhere lar). What I really meant by this is that quite a number of the shops/restaurants in Melbourne accept only cash (i.e. no credit cards). Even some of the shops/restaurants accept credit cards, they might charge additional admin fee. 

So, do make sure to bring enough cash before landing in Melbourne. Unless it is absolutely necessary, exchange money in the money changer there is not recommended as the rate is very lousy.

3. Discount coupons are there for the picking
One thing I like about Australia is that they are very pro-tourists. Their Tourists Information/Guide booth can be found in many places within the city (the biggest one is in Federation Square). Besides gaining some insights of the tourist attraction, you also can get some of the discount coupons/leaflets from these booth. For example, I've gotten my 20% discount leaflet for the Sea Life Aquarium there. 

Not only that, many of the hotels do have some discount vouchers/cards (for tourists attraction/souvenir shops etc...) on their front desks. So, do look out for them and take the advantage of these discount coupons.  

4. Weather is as volatile as the stock market
Even though Australia is deemed to have 4 seasons but not to go too strict by the rule. For example, even in their summer, not to expect hot and sunny days throughout the season. One of the hotel service staff did tell us that the weather in Australia is so unique country that we can experience 4 seasons within a day (we experienced it ourselves and got to agree with her). So, do come prepare with umbrella and thicker clothing as standby.

5. Need to withdraw money? Go inside the shops/supermarkets/departmental stores
For whatever reason, if you need to withdraw cash from your credit cards via the ATM machine, do take note that there are quite a number of shops (yes, those normal convenient shops), supermarkets and departmental stores have ATMs installed within their premises. So, it is convenient and safer to do the withdrawal there.

That's it! Hope you folks find this post relevant and interesting. From tomorrow onward, will be blogging more serious stuff...Nah, just kidding ;-)

Cheers!

Friday, January 2, 2015

I am AWAY... But Will be back ;-)

From tomorrow onwards, I will be away and having some fun time at Down Under (Melbourne) and will be back only on 17th Jan 2015. So, see you folks in slightly more than 2 weeks time ;-)

Meanwhile! Hope you folks have a great start of 2015 and keep going, keep growing your portfolio.

I will be BACK! ;-)

Cheers!

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