uncle lim kopi

2024 is coming to an end. It's been an eventful year for myself. While I had experienced multiple rounds of layoffs in my 20+ year of working for MNCs, 2024 is special, because I didn't dodge the bullet this time, basically I kena chopped lah! Then, I was offered another role in the company. which I took and thus I gave up my severance money. I figured its better to try something different and stay employed, and I estimated I will even out as long as I last until the next RSU vest date, which is less than 6 months away from the layoff date. So no harm trying it out and if it doesn't pan out, I can take the RSU and run road. Unfortunately, I really have to run road after 6-7 months, due to the difficulties I faced in the new role, compounded by distractions in my family life at the same time. And plus my energy levels weren't as high as before, likely due to me not taking good care of myself. So here I am, doing nothing for past few months since I left the company. Well,...

 Huat ah! already hit above $400. Damn shiok to see my holdings doubled.  It's not a lot, but still shiok lah. Maybe it will hit $800??? Never say never! Thanks Mr Musk :)

Was reading this  https://www.asiaone.com/money/sandwich-generation-singapore-finances-caring-aged-parents-and-children   Coincidentally, this is also a topic close to my heart, as I am really part of this sandwiched generation. Uncle isn't blaming anyone, since Uncle's parents aren't well to do, and they literally gave all they have to their children, to support them and give them a head start in life, while sacrificing their own retirement resources. If they had focused on their own retirement, Uncle and my siblings would had to stop school pre-maturely to start working to fend for ourselves, likely resulting in bad outcomes for ourselves. So I thank my good parents and would always be happy to support them in their golden years. Uncle also made a choice to have children as they give me purpose in life.  So what does Uncle want to do? My view is, as long as it's within my ability, I will strive to be the last generation of being sandwiched. This means, I will aim to b...

  OA is dwindling each month as my income has stopped and mortgage payments continue each month ($1400 per month). This is expected and the amount will last me another 1.5 years before I will run out and need to incur additional $1400 of cash outlay per month. Maybe I'll be working again before that happens, but even if not, I am not too worried atm

 Uncle had a chat with an old friend (same age) recently. He is married without kids and lives in a HDB flat that has been fully paid for many years ago. His wife has stopped working due to health issues (non-life threatening), while he continues to be gainfully employed.  During our chat, he mentioned about planning to retire in 2025, and I was sincerely very happy to hear that. Of course I was curious about how he did it. And I am glad to say, he seems to have things sorted out. Housing is paid for, and they both have decent amounts accumulated in their CPF accounts which should provide a good safety net as they reach 55 and beyond. He has also active investments and trading which he said provides sufficient coverage for his household living expenses.  To be, he lives a comfortable and humble lifestyle. He doesn't own a car though he could comfortable afford one. He eat simple meals and enjoys short trips to nearby countries very often. All these expense are well within...