Redefining Retirement for Modern Filipinos

RETIREMENT — once seen as a sunset, a slow fade into the twilight years of life — is being reimagined by modern Filipinos. Today, retirement is not just about resting after decades of hard work; it’s about embracing a new dawn full of opportunities to reinvent oneself, pursue passions and live life with renewed purpose. … Read more

Navigating high inflation and managing education costs

AS Filipinos brace for another year of financial uncertainty, continuous high inflation remains a pressing concern. This economic challenge not only affects everyday expenses but also adds significant pressure on personal finances, especially with the incoming tuition fee season for the new school year. The reality of high inflation High inflation impacts every facet of … Read more

Best financial strategies for 2024

AS we welcome the dawn of a new year with the dazzling display of fireworks and joyous celebrations, it is essential to recognize the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead in the realm of personal finance. Much like orchestrating spectacular fireworks shows requires careful planning and precision, managing one’s finances demands strategic foresight and adaptability. … Read more

The Silent Wealth Killer

A SEASONED seafarer dwelled in a beautiful coastal province. I met him 10 years ago and attended one of my financial planning seminars when I was starting as a financial planner. With salt-kissed dreams of financial prosperity, he often gazed out at the boundless sea, envisioning a future of abundance. However, there was an ever-present … Read more

Strategies for preventing financial losses during times of inflation

THE recent collapse of banks in the United States and Europe left many people worried about the safety of their own finances. Last March 10, US Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (FDIC) took control of Silicon Valley Bank. Two days after, FDIC shut down Signature Bank after a run on its deposits by customers. Then on … Read more

Avoid Being a Victim of Revenge

PEOPLE are complaining about the high prices that we are experiencing nowadays. For example, in the last year, 2022, our average inflation was 5.8 percent, and the BSP Monetary Board forecast for 2023 will likely be around 2 percent to 4 percent inflation. Inflation has two sides: cost-push inflation is when the demand does not … Read more

Retiring during rising inflation

MOST Filipinos rely on social security for their retirement. However, despite the evidence in the past that depending on the government retirement program will surely lead us to despondent golden years. Still, from generation to generation, this is a considerable debate about whether to invest in it or just be faithful for the future. Of … Read more

Investing during war time

As investors, we know too well that volatility is part of the game, whether it is war or time of peace. That is why it is a good investment to have an alternative asset that will add to your diversification, which will then help reduce overall portfolio volatility. And now is a good time for you to check the health condition of your portfolio.

Managing your financial plan when interest rises

THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) announced last May 19 the decision of the Monetary Board to hike rates by 25 basis points (bps) effective May 20. Some analysts expect the Monetary Board to hike benchmark rates by 75 bps this year to tame inflation and reduce currency risks after the US Fed (US Federal Reserve) hikes its benchmark rates. … Read more

The Best Christmas Gift

Celebrations are a quick translation for “Christmas season’ for many Filipinos. Many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and seafarers also come home to their families for this annual merry making. This 2020 however, celebrations might not be the same due to the lingering effects of the pandemic on the Philippines. What could be the best way … Read more