How Your Child’s Money Habits Affect Old Age

As parents, we play a vital role in shaping our children’s behavior and values, including their money habits. While we often focus on the immediate impact of teaching our kids about financial responsibility, it’s crucial to recognize that these habits can have far-reaching consequences that extend well into old age.

We’ll explore the profound influence of childhood money habits on one’s financial well-being during the golden years.

EARLY FINANCIAL EDUCATION
Instilling a strong foundation of financial literacy in children sets them on a path towards a secure future. Teaching them basic concepts like saving, budgeting, and distinguishing between needs and wants establishes healthy money habits from an early age. These early lessons can profoundly impact how they handle their finances in adulthood, leading to better financial decision-making during retirement.

POWER OF SAVING
Encouraging children to save money fosters a sense of delayed gratification and financial discipline. By teaching them the importance of setting aside money for the future, we equip them with the tools needed to build a retirement nest egg. Children who develop a habit of saving are more likely to continue this practice throughout their lives, ensuring a more comfortable retirement.

UNDERSTANDING DEBT & CREDIT
Educating children about the responsible use of credit and the potential dangers of debt is crucial. When children learn to differentiate between good and bad debt, they are more likely to make informed decisions about borrowing in adulthood. By cultivating a sense of caution and encouraging responsible credit usage, we help them avoid financial hardships in their later years.

ATTITUDES TOWARDS WORK
The work ethic and attitudes towards earning money that children develop during their formative years can significantly impact their financial stability in old age. Teaching children the value of hard work, ambition, and perseverance can instill a sense of responsibility and a drive to succeed. These qualities are often correlated with higher earnings and a greater ability to build wealth for retirement.

FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE
Empowering children to become financially independent and self-sufficient individuals has lasting implications for their financial well-being in old age. Encouraging them to find part-time jobs, start small businesses, or pursue entrepreneurial ventures teaches them the importance of generating income and managing it responsibly. This independence reduces the risk of financial dependence on others during retirement.

FINANCIAL ROLE MODELS

Children learn by observing the behavior of their parents and other influential figures in their lives. Modeling positive financial habits and demonstrating responsible money management lays the groundwork for their own financial future. Parents who exemplify prudent spending, saving, and investing practices are more likely to raise children who adopt these behaviors in their later years.

IN A NUTSHELL

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Our children’s money habits have a profound impact on their financial well-being in old age. By providing them with a solid foundation in financial literacy, teaching the value of saving, cultivating responsible credit usage, and fostering a strong work ethic, we empower them to make wise financial decisions throughout their lives. As parents, we have a unique opportunity to shape their future financial security and set them on the path to a comfortable and fulfilling retirement. Let’s make the most of it and ensure our children are well-prepared for their golden years.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

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6 Tips to Improve Your Credit Score in Singapore

A credit score is a measure of your credit behavior, predicting the likelihood of you paying back loans on time based on information from your credit reports.

In Singapore, credit scores are determined by algorithms that track credit usage. Credit scores are ranked according to the following risk grades: AA is the highest, while BB or CC indicate late repayments or delinquency, and DD or lower indicate defaults. The credit score risk grades are as shown below.

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You can easily obtain a credit report from the Credit Bureau of Singapore’s website (CBS) for S$8.00 with prevailing GST. Alternatively, you can get it for free by applying for a new credit card or a loan facility.

Before we dive into ways to improve your credit score and manage your debt, it’s important to understand the significance of having a good credit score. A good credit score in Singapore can provide you with access to larger loans and better interest rates. You see, your credit score is a key factor in determining your loan eligibility for purchases like a flat or a car.

In addition to facilitating loan approvals, a good credit score can also have a significant impact on your career in finance. The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) considers credit checks to be essential for employees and potential hires in financial institutions. Low credit scores can lead to job rejections in the finance industry.

Now, let’s focus on how to improve your credit score. As mentioned above, a good credit score can help you to elevate your career in finance and to boost your eligibility for larger loans. In a place where the cost of living is relatively high, it’s necessary for you to manage your debts and maintain a good credit score to be financially stable. Here are some tips to help you manage your debt and improve your credit score:

#1: MANAGE YOUR DEBT

Be organized. Make a list of all your debts, including your personal loans, credit card balances, and mortgages. Keep track of the interest rates, due dates for each debt, and the minimum payments.

#2: PRIORITIZE HIGH-INTEREST DEBT

Focus on paying off high-interest debt first, such as credit card debt. Prioritizing debt can affect how quickly you can become debt-free. Focusing on high-interest debt will save you more money and allow you to redirect your funds to other financial goals, while following the timeline you set.

#3: AVOID LATE PAYMENTS

Can you imagine how continuously paying for late fees can affect your motivation levels to pay off your debt? By the time you receive your third delinquent payment letter, your credit score would already have dropped, regardless of whether the bank waives your late payment fee. Late payments can hurt your credit score, so ensure that you pay your bills on time.

Set up virtual reminders to help you stay on track. Or ask your financial institution how you can set up automatic payments.

#4: KEEP YOUR CREDIT UTILIZATION LOW

Your credit utilization ratio is the amount of credit you’ve used compared to your credit limit. Maintaining low credit utilization can improve your credit score. If possible, try to use no more than 30% of your available credit.

#5: MONITOR YOUR CREDIT REPORT

Check your credit report regularly to ensure that all the information is accurate. Get your credit report from the Credit Bureau of Singapore. If you find any errors, do not be afraid to raise them.

#6: WORK WITH YOUR BANK

Do not avoid calls or letters from your bank, its debt collectors, and lawyers. Hanging up the call can affect your opportunity to find better ways to pay off your debt. Remain cooperative and reachable. If you are cooperative, your bank is more likely to help you restructure your payment schedule.

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In conclusion, managing your debt and improving your credit score in Singapore requires good financial habits and discipline. By following these six tips, you can upgrade your financial situation and achieve your financial goals in a realistic timeline.

Sources:1,2, & 3

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Benefits & Drawbacks of Using Cash Versus Credit Cards in Singapore

KEY HIGHLIGHTS
a. Paying with cash can encourage mindful spending, as it lacks the convenience that credit cards have.
b. Credit cards have security features and a rewards program, which cash does not have.
c. Interest charges and late payment fees can pile up if you don’t pay off your credit card balance on time.

With the easing of travel restrictions, you are hearing more family and friends discuss their latest holiday plans. Some may even brag about the “free upgrades” they received on flights and hotels by using their credit cards’ miles and accumulated points.

If you are feeling tempted to get a credit card to reap its benefits when you travel, remember to do your own due diligence, and understand the pros and cons of using credit cards versus cash. Both credit cards and cash are widely accepted as payment methods in Singapore. It is imperative that you weigh your options and consider your spending habits, before deciding.

BENEFITS OF USING CREDIT CARDS

#1: UNDENIABLE CONVENIENCE

Credit cards allow you to make purchases without carrying cash, which can be more convenient when you need to make large purchases. You do not need to worry about queues at the ATM, or whether you have enough cash in your wallet. Simply swipe the card anytime and anywhere.

#2: REWARDS AND PROMOTIONS

Many credit cards offer promotions and rewards such as cashback, discounts, and points. You can earn rewards by swiping your card for everyday purchases, which can help you save money in the long run. If you play your cards right, you could be one of those people who fly for “free” due to their air miles redemptions. Imagine boarding the plane and redeeming the staycation of your dreams, without any additional spending on top of your usual expenses!

#3: SECURITY FEATURES

Credit cards come with fraud protection features such as receiving a notification for each transaction. This means that if your card is stolen or used illegally, you won’t be liable for charges. Call the credit card issuer immediately to inform them of any unauthorized transaction. Moreover, you can cancel a credit card if it is lost or stolen.

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In contrast, cash does not give consumer protection against fraud and theft. In the unfortunate event that your wallet is stolen, all the cash inside would certainly be gone.

BENEFITS OF USING CASH

#1: NO FEES

While having a credit card does make purchases in foreign currencies seamless, they tend to come with relatively high foreign exchange fees and unfavorable foreign exchange rates. When you use cash, you do not have to fret about paying fees or interest. Furthermore, some retailers offer devices that are cheaper when purchased in cash.

#2: SPENDING CONTROL

At one point or another, you have probably gone down the rabbit hole of splurging on an item that costs more than your budget. When this happens, sticking to your available cash will be your best bet to stay within your means. Using cash can enable you to track your spending and avoid overspending. With a limited amount of cash in your wallet, you are more likely to think twice before making a purchase.

#3: WIDELY ACCEPTED

While credit cards are widely accepted in Singapore, there are still some places where you can only pay with cash. Small local businesses, hawker centres, or street vendors may opt for cash transactions.

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The choice between credit cards and cash comes down to your financial situation and personal preference. If you value convenience, rewards, and security, a credit card may be a better choice. However, if you prefer mindful spending and avoiding fees and hidden charges, then cash may be the way to go.

Sources:1,2, & 3

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Having a Credit Card is Not a License to Spend

Convincing yourself that you are not spending real money is easy when you charge for items on your credit card. Technically, you are correct! You are not spending money, in fact, you are borrowing money.

Using your credit card means that you will have to pay the bill eventually. The promise of small minimum payments can entice you into thinking that these purchases are bargains. Unless you pay back the purchase immediately, you will not feel the pain of the bill for another month.

Be responsible with your credit card by treating it like cash and swiping only what you know you can pay back in full. You can reap its benefits by using your credit card in the following situations.

#1: GROWING YOUR REWARD POINTS

Many credit cards provide reward points for certain categories of spending like groceries, gasoline, air fares, and restaurants. When earning thresholds are reached, points can be redeemed for travel, shopping, and more. Choose a card that best suits your spending patterns.

#2: PAYING RECURRING BILLS

As long as you make payments on time, recurring payments will keep that line of credit open so you can continue to maintain or boost your credit score. Any recurring payments you have such as subscription on Spotify or Netflix can be paid through your credit card.

#3: SHIELDING YOU FROM EMERGENCY

Are you ready for unexpected expenses? When this happens, you need some time to cushion the blow. You can use your credit card in case of an emergency, including fixing, changing your tire or repairing a broken window. Be sure to repay more than the minimum on your credit card payments to avoid unnecessary interest.

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#4: SHOPPING ONLINE

Senior Industry Analyst at CreditCards.com once said: “Chip-enabled cards are very good at deterring in-person fraud but that doesn’t help you online, and that’s where most of the fraud has gone.” You can use your credit card when shopping online instead of shopping with your debit card.

Check your browser and shopping apps to ensure that your debit card is not saved on any of these platforms. You can either add your credit card information or delete all your card information to make it harder for you to overspend online.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

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5 Things to Consider Before Getting a Personal Loan

Personal loan is one of the most sought-after loans in Singapore. With a personal loan, you can borrow funds from a financial institution and pay them back in fixed instalments over an agreed period. However, you typically need to meet a minimum income requirement and to pass a background check on your credit history.

Generally, it is much cheaper to get a personal loan rather than borrowing money from a moneylender. Moreover, you will need to submit a lesser number of documents compared to other types of loans such as car or home loans. These factors contribute to the popularity of personal loans.

Apart from these, consider the following points before getting a personal loan.

#1: PERSONAL LOAN HAS A MINIMUM INCOME REQUIREMENT

The eligibility for personal loan incorporates your income and your age. You need to pass the minimum income requirement (e.g., S$30,000 per annum) and the age requirement (i.e., usually under 60 years old). These strict requirements ensure that you will be capable of paying off the loans and that you will be paying on time.

#2: PERSONAL LOAN IS NOT FOR EVERYONE

Now that you know the basics of personal loans, you must remember that it is not for everyone. You need to contemplate the purpose of the loan before getting one. Compute for the monthly fees and other charges.

You see, it is better to use your extra funds if you intend to use the loan for lifestyle desires. Lifestyle desires include purchasing a new gadget or booking an international cruise. On the other hand, you need to carefully assess your business plan and financial situation if you intend to use the money for business and investment.

#3: PERSONAL LOANS CAN MAKE OR BREAK YOUR CREDIT STANDING

Examine your credit standing as it affects your personal loan application. Paying your dues on time is one way to keep your credit score on the good side. In contrast, accumulated monthly charges and overdue payments add red flags to your credit score. As a new applicant, carefully consider the terms and conditions of the bank.

#4: PERSONAL LOANS COME WITH SERVICE FEES AND OTHER CHARGES

Do not be fooled by the attractive loan prices flashed by the banks and financial institutions. You can end up paying more money due to service fees and other charges. You will pay the monthly fees along with the effective interest rates. If you plan to pay by cheques, returned checks can also be charged. Thus, new applicants must consider other forms of payment such as mobile banking.

#5: PERSONAL LOANS SHOULD BE YOUR LAST RESORT

Building an emergency fund is a part of the fundamentals of being financially savvy. When an unfortunate event takes a toll on your finances, you still have reserves. If your emergency funds have depleted, personal loans should be your last resort.

Avoid spending your personal loan to impress other people with your new gadget or with a grand getaway. Spend your extra funds on your lifestyle desires instead of borrowing money.

Personal loans have a variety of advantages and disadvantages. We hope that you can manage your finances well if you decide to avail yourself of a personal loan in the future.

Sources: 1 & 2

 

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