Finance Investment Movement 66

It's nice to start off the year by checking the CPF interest income which as usual, did the heavy lifting in contributing to the 2.8% portfolio improvement target. In this new year, the hurdle to climb will be 8%, to reflect expediency towards my retirement plan. There were no slouchers as the STI rally shone through with ST Engg being the star in my small stock basket. Time in the market proved right which I fortunately did not waiver when prices were attractive for disposal. As things stand, I intend to initiate positions in new stocks with a $20000 budget but this would probably not be in near term due to high prices. Yet, with cryptos seemingly falling sharply, it's time once again to hold on to the seat belt.

Chinese New Year celebrations have started and my schedule already shows many upcoming dinners. In a couple of lunches with the seasonal menu, I noticed the prices hadn't changed from previous year. Reservations were surprisingly still available at last minute notice. This doesn't bode well for the festive period. I think it's a hard slog for the food and beverage sector. Not only are consumers and business owners paying more, the trends have shifted towards Chinese cuisine which seems to be a little over saturated. At this rate, we will lose heritage food and variety. Cost inflation basically killed the older and manual laborious food operators that I love. Even school canteens are becoming centralized!  Overall, while economists favor free market competition, I prefer more control to keep a balance in check. Please don't let the muah chee, kueh tutu, oyster cake, satay beehoon etc disappear. I'm willing to pay more. These are local delicacies that aren't replicated elsewhere and pray that day never comes. One Sichuan restaurant less won't impact much, doesn't it?

Dividends as of January 2026: $381.20 (avg $381.20 per month)

Tip: Choyofukumusume Junmai Gingo Summer, gentle crisp, young green grape, medium finish