Busy busy busy

I really should be writing more often given that i am semi retired and have all the time in the world. But before you start jumping at me, i have to tell you that i have been busying myself with a lot of things.

The Singlish Debacle

There are many interesting things i would like to talk about recently including the Chinese new year celebrations but something important caught my attention. Anyway before i start blabbering, i would like to wish everyone a Happy Chinese New year! Gong Xi Fa Cai!!! (Wish you great wealth)

Back From Ho Chi Min City

Finally reached Singapore yesterday after spending 5 beautiful days in Vietnam. It was my first trip to Vietnam and the first impression that you get is that there are a lot of motocycles. The entire street is filled with motorcycles.

The fascinating thing is that there is order within the chaos so even though there are few traffic lights, accident rate is believed to be among the lowest in South East Asia. Even when you try to cross the street packed with motorists, somehow or rather, the motorcycles will be able to skirt pass you with ease. Thats the beauty of this country. Food is good but more often than not, i try to avoid hawker food and stick to the safer hotel food option.

The Vietnamese are a resilient lot moulded by the many wars that they have endured throughout history. Who can forget the Vietnam war? It speaks volume of what they can achieve in future. From the trip, i have absolute confidence that the country will eventually come good.  

More about the GIC-Citi deal

A few days ago, i was writing up on the possible risks that GIC is taking on with the US$6.88 billion investment in Citigroup. It prompted me to investigate further so as to have a more balanced view towards this issue.

Singapore is becoming a cash cow real soon

 

My first post on WSJ.com

I have been quite happy with myself for the past week, where i was honoured and privileged to have a tiny mention on Wall Street Journal. It’s not everyday you get mentioned on an international journal website. I still get the tingles when i think about it… haha…

A trip to the Silver Industry Conference & Exhibition (SICEX)

Since it’s a Sunday, i make a trip down to Suntec, Singapore to have a look at the exhibition. Admission was free by the way..

To Retire or not to retire – A Singaporean view

I have been asked on numerous occasions about retirement from my good friends  so i thought it good that i share some of my initial considerations when i decided to call it quits with everyone here. Take note that the considerations might vary with different people and it’s definitely not a one fit all solution.

Retirement means death, don’t stop working – MM Lee

I think our Ministor mentor (MM) Lee Kuan Yew has hit the nail this time with the report that he published today. Turning 85 this year, MM Lee is still very much active in the political arena with frequent official trips to India and China. He believes that an active life, regular exercise and frequent travels were his secrets to aging gracefully.

About Baby Boomers / What are Baby Boomers

The Baby Booomers born between 1946 and 1964 form the single largest demographic spike in American hostory. Never before or since have birth rates shot up and remained so high so long with some obvious results: When the baby boomers were kids, American culture revolved around families and schools; when they were teenagers, the US was wracked by rebelliousness; now as mature adults, the baby boomers have led America to become the richest and most powerful country in the history of the world.