counters in bold are held in higher proportions. as at Mar 15 2026.
History: A job security scare in 2023 led me to selling my small weekend condo and useing the profits to begin investing. As I gained experience, i poured more cash into it. Finally, i activated CPF into the portfolio which is now divided into two wings: Cash and CPF. as there are more restrictions on the use of CPF, investments there are heavily centred on the Amova ETF, which is one of the few that has no investment restrictions, and the highest dividend yield at over 5%. My overall dividend yield in 2025 was 6.9%.
personality: not every person has the right personality for investing. It requires discipline, objectivity and lots of courage. Before I make a purchase, I pour over reports and statistics before making a decision. I prefer to manage and make my own call, even as I am open to opinions. I even did various personality tests and even had AI engines to check my bazi / astrology to complete a very elaborate self-evaluation (don't laugh. hahaha). Those who are not willing to put in the work (its, ok), or make the call should avoid investing. Those who are faint hearted or believe everything their 'friends' tell them should keep away too!
purpose: self reflecting before investing is a very critical exercise as it will determine the type and form which the investment will materialise. as a result of the job insecurity scare and my legacy plans, i am clear that i am investing largely for income. that led me to sg- reits and other dividend stocks. your purpose may lead to you other forms of investing such as capital investing and even property. Purpose gave me clarity in give and take, which is essential in any investment exercise. I priortise stability and dividend returns over capital gains. It helps me to focus especially when the market turns choppy.
alternative: You don't have to do it on your own. Go to a good bank and talk to a professional. let them do the work with you and for you. Of course they will charge a fair bit, but you get some freebies like miles or an exclusive credit card, and its way better than sitting on capital. Depending on a professional is also helpful when the investment amount is or becomes very large. They could have more advanced or exclusive investment vehicles that are not available on the open market. managing a few million on your own can be more than a full time job!
