MoneyDigest - Personal Finance, Lifestyle, Money Saving Tips

Singapore to implement sustainable fuel levy to reduce carbon emissions and this is how it will affect air ticket prices

Travelers, have you heard the news?

Starting in 2026, all flights leaving Singapore are going to have to use some sustainable aviation fuel to help reduce carbon emissions over time.

This means you can expect your ticket prices to go up a little because of a new fee they’re putting on sustainable fuel.

How much it costs you depends on things like how far you’re going and what class of seat you’re in.

This is all part of Singapore’s plan to make air travel more environmentally friendly.

An unambitious goal

In approximately two years, they’re aiming for flights to use just 1% sustainable fuel.

Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat says the cost increase should be manageable since they have run through the topic with major stakeholders.

Getting to that 1% goal will help fuel makers feel more confident investing in new production facilities.

Without more supply, it will be tough to use more sustainable fuel down the road.

Scaling slowly

Then by 2030, if feasible, they are eyeing for flights to run on 3 to 5% sustainable fuel, aligning with developments and more companies getting into the business in the next few years.

The long-term targets will balance being cost-effective with protecting the environment, to support air travel growth while reducing emissions over the decades.

To hit 1% in 2026, there will be a levy that could raise an economy ticket from Singapore to nearby places like Bangkok by $3, further places like Tokyo by $6, and London by $16 more.

Fliers in nicer seats will pay higher fees.

Image Credits: nzherald.co.nz

More info to be provided

The aviation authority will provide more details in 2025 on exactly how this will work when it starts.

Meanwhile, they will keep the lines of discussion open among stakeholders.

Using sustainable fuel is a big part of the plan as it can lower emissions a lot compared to regular jet fuel, and is key for reaching net zero over the long run.

But for now, it costs more, so they need to balance goals with keeping prices reasonable so air travel stays popular.

Only time will tell if they strike the right balance!

CAAS’ fixed cost approach

The market for sustainable aviation fuel is still developing and the price can be unpredictable.

However, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) wants to provide airlines and travelers with more certainty on costs.

As such, they will set a fixed amount for the levy based on targets and estimated prices for that year.

Whatever they collect from the levy will be used to buy the fuel, based on what it costs at purchase time.

But the levy amount won’t change even if the real price differs from what was estimated.

Instead, they will adjust how much fuel gets added based on the fixed levy and current price.

Planes can currently fly with a 50/50 mix of sustainable and regular jet fuel, so there’s still leeway to work around things for now.

5 multivitamins under $35.90 to start you right on your vitamin-taking journey

Embarking on a journey towards healthier living doesn’t have to be daunting.

In fact, it can begin with something as simple as incorporating a quality multivitamin into your daily routine.

Thus, we’ve handpicked some multivitamins, all under the budget-friendly price of $35.90 for your consideration.

21st Century One-A-Day 60s

Price: $12

Can it get any cheaper than this?

21st Century One-A-Day is specially formulated to help meet your body’s requirement of essential vitamins and minerals with just one tablet daily.

In addition to a wide range of vits and minerals, there’s added L-Lysine, choline, inositol, and lecithin, making it more than an ordinary multivitamin formula.

Take this easy-to-swallow tablet as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle.

There’s no added sugar, yeast, starch, artificial flavors, preservatives, or animal products.

Blackmores Multivitamin + Minerals 30s

Promo Price: $13.20 (was $18.90)

Or you can give this once-a-day multivitamin and mineral formula a try to help fill any nutrition gaps in your diet.

With essential B vitamins that support energy production from the foods you eat, this formula promotes a healthy immune system through vitamins A, C, and zinc.

The balanced blend of nutrients supports your daily health by providing essential vitamins and minerals your body needs.

Take one tablet daily to help maintain the health of your body, mind, and spirit.

Biofinest Women Multi Gummies 60s

Promo Price: $19.95 (was $39.90)

Hate swallowing pills?

These gummies with a unique blend of 20 essential daily nutrients in a chewable form were made just for you.

The combination of vitamins and minerals in each gummy helps boost brain, heart, digestive and immune health. They also support healthy vision, bones, joints, hair, nails, and skin.

Taking two gummies a day promotes a healthy mood, increases energy and stamina, and enhances female sexual health and overall wellness.

Made with pectin instead of gelatin and sweetened with organic tapioca syrup and beet sugar, these raspberry-flavored gummies deliver essential nutrients in a tasty and natural way.

Ocean Health Multivitamin & Minerals 60s

Price: $31

This all-in-one multivitamin and mineral formula provides 31 essential nutrients to help replenish what your body may be missing and maintain optimum health.

Simply take one caplet daily after a meal to get a balanced blend of vitamins B, D, K, and chromium to support your body’s daily functions.

Whether you follow a vegetarian diet or simply want extra nutritional support, this daily supplement contains key nutrients to meet your body’s needs.

The formula is suitable for adults of all ages looking to fill any nutritional gaps and maintain optimum health.

OLLY Men’s Multi 90s

Price: $35.60

Lastly, we have these gummy vitamins for men that work as hard as you do, providing essential nutrients to support your health and well-being.

Made with a blackberry and grape flavor, the all-natural chewable vitamins contain Vitamins A, C, D, E, and the B complex, along with zinc and CoQ10 to help fuel your active lifestyle.

The gluten-free and color-free formulas are imported from the USA to deliver a delicious chewable sidekick that absorbs easily to boost your energy, immunity, and more.

Just pop two gummies daily with or without food and get on with your day, knowing this on-the-go supplement covers your multivitamin needs.

Wrapping up, we’ve looked through a list of affordable multivitamins and presented you with five options under $35.90 to kickstart your wellness journey. These multivitamins are your allies, providing the essential nutrients your body craves. As you begin on your vitamin-taking journey, remember: small steps can lead to substantial health transformations. Here’s to a healthier you, one vitamin at a time.

Singapore dollar hits an all-time high of 3.57 against the Malaysian ringgit

The Singapore dollar (SGD) has surged to an all-time high against the Malaysian ringgit (MYR), crossing the 3.57 mark as of 20 February 2024 at 9:43 PM. (GMT+8)

As at time of writing, the Singapore dollar is trading at RM3.5731.

Source: Google Finance

For Malaysia, the continued weakness in its exports has been a significant concern. This downturn in export performance can be linked to sluggish global demand and competitive pressures, which directly impact the country’s trade balance and, consequently, the value of its currency.

Additionally, “external factors” such as the rate hikes by the United States Federal Reserve have exerted pressure on emerging market currencies, including the Malaysian ringgit. These rate increases tend to attract investors towards US-denominated assets, leading to a depreciation of other currencies. Geopolitical concerns and uncertainties regarding China’s economic prospects further contribute to the volatile global economic environment, affecting investor sentiment and causing fluctuations in currency values.

In contrast, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), has maintained its monetary policy unchanged, continuing its tight stance as the city-state grapples with persistent inflation. Unlike most countries where central banks adjust interest rates to influence economic activity, Singapore’s monetary policy is primarily centered on managing the exchange rate. The MAS allows the Singapore dollar to appreciate or depreciate against the currencies of its major trading partners within an undisclosed band. This strategy aims to stabilize prices and maintain competitiveness, thereby directly influencing the value of the Singapore dollar.

4 electric toothbrushes $49.90 & under for better brushing on a budget

Oral hygiene is a necessity, and achieving a nice smile shouldn’t cost THAT much.

We understand the importance of finding a balance between quality and affordability and that’s why we’ve handpicked these electric toothbrushes, each $49.90 and under, that will boost your brushing routine without denting your wallet.

Dive into our list right now! We will show you what it means to have oral care meeting budget-friendly innovation.

Enchen Sonic Electric Toothbrush Aurora T+

Promo Price: $11.30 (was $20.60)

First up, we have this toothbrush that packs big performance into its compact form.

With three brushing modes including a massage setting, the Enchen Sonic Electric Toothbrush Aurora T+ provides a customized clean every time.

Its fast vibrations of up to 40,000 strokes/minute help break up plaque and debris, while the two-minute smart timer and auto-shutdown ensure you don’t overbrush.

The low-noise operation lets you enjoy your brushing session without disturbance, and the USB rechargeable battery delivers up to 14 days of brushing on a single charge.

Lightweight and portable, this toothbrush is great for travel and everyday use, giving you a whiter, healthier smile in 2024.

Xiaomi Mijia Sonic Electric Toothbrush T100

Promo Price: $11.90 (was $14.90)

Or you can consider the Xiaomi Mijia Sonic Electric Toothbrush T100 instead.

It uses high-frequency vibrations and a 360-degree cleaning mode to remove stains and plaque like no ordinary toothbrush.

Two cleaning modes—standard and soft for sensitive teeth—mean you get a customized clean.

The light 46g brush and long 30-day battery life mean convenience and comfort, while the 6-month warranty provides peace of mind.

Say goodbye to stained teeth and hello to a brighter smile.

Colgate Proclinical B150 Charcoal Electric Powered Soft Toothbrush

Promo Price: $27.40 (was $30.50)

This electric toothbrush is for those who want to step up their plaque-fighting power.

The compact charcoal-infused brush head with soft bristles sweeps along your gum line, while the lightweight handle allows for easy maneuvering.

With up to 20,000 strokes/minute and multi-directional cleaning, it provides superior plaque removal.

The built-in 2-minute timer helps ensure you brush right.

Ideal for fresh breath, this toothbrush also comes with a tongue and cheek cleaner to help remove odor-causing bacteria.

The brush head is replaceable, while the included batteries allow you to start brushing right away.

Zenyum Sonic Go Essential Travel Electric Toothbrush

Promo Price: $49.90 (was $59.90)

Last but not least, Zenyum Sonic Go Essential is THE travel partner for your dental care needs.

This slim toothbrush uses high-frequency micro-vibrations for a deep cleanse through sonic technology, providing an optimal brushing experience.

You can choose from three personalized settings to find the mode that works for you.

The long-lasting battery provides up to 25 days of continuous brushing on a single charge, so you can leave your charger behind for short trips.

The IPX7 waterproofing means you can use Zenyum Sonic Go worry-free, like brushing in the shower.

And there you have it—we’ve shown you that oral care doesn’t have to come with a steep price tag. Each of these electric toothbrushes delivers on quality, efficiency, and affordability. Now, it’s your turn to decide which one meets your needs the best. A brighter smile and healthier teeth are just a switch away. So, take advantage of the promo prices now and brush your way to better oral health in 2024!

4 baby lotions $14.40 & under to protect your little one’s sensitive skin

As a parent, we believe your baby’s well-being is always top of mind.

And if you want to protect their sensitive skin from unfavorable conditions, this article is your guide.

Here’s a list of some affordable baby lotions, each priced at $14.40 and under for your consideration.

Johnson’s Baby Bedtime Lotion 500ml

Price: $5.50

Slip your precious one into a cocoon of comfort with Johnson’s Baby Bedtime Lotion.

This lotion contains NaturalCalm essence, clinically proven to help calm and soothe your baby before bedtime. The lotion is pH balanced, hypoallergenic, and dermatologist tested, with a soothing aroma of jasmine and lily to gently signal it’s time for sleep.

The coconut oil and moisture-locking ingredients moisturize your baby’s delicate skin for 24 hours while being free of parabens, phthalates, and dyes. Just a few strokes of this lotion can help prep your baby’s mind and body for sweet dreams.

Dove Baby Rich Moisture Lotion 200ml

Price: $5.90

Next up, we have this lotion from Dove that is formulated for the most delicate of skin—your newborn’s.

Made with a blend of prebiotic moisture and cream, it helps protect and soothe your baby’s skin from the very first use. The prebiotics support the baby’s skin microbiome to keep it healthy and protected, while the hypoallergenic formula is dermatologist and pediatrician-tested to be gentle enough.

The rich lotion moisturizes for up to 24 hours, sealing in hydration so your baby’s skin stays soft and smooth. Use after every bath to help nourish skin and help prevent dryness that can lead to irritation and discomfort. Give your little one’s skin the loving care it needs from day one.

Pigeon Natural Botanical Baby Milky Lotion 200ml

Price: $8.07

Pigeon’s natural botanical baby lotion provides long-lasting moisturization for your baby’s skin.

Made with more than 90% natural ingredients, this non-greasy formula contains nourishing extracts of argan, olive, and chamomile to soothe dryness through the night.

Dispense an appropriate amount into your palm after your baby’s nightly bath and gently massage it into the skin. The light yet effective moisturization leaves skin soft and comfortable for a sound slumber.

Aveeno Baby Daily Moisture Lotion 227ml

Promo Price: $14.40 (was $18.05)

Last but not least, we have this nourishing lotion that hydrates your baby’s delicate skin for a full 24 hours without clogging pores.

The hypoallergenic, fragrance-free formula contains a natural colloidal oatmeal and emollient blend that soothes and moisturizes while protecting sensitive skin. Free of drying alcohols, it absorbs quickly and leaves skin feeling soft and comforted.

This daily moisturizer is gentle enough for your little one. Use it morning and night to keep your baby’s complexion happy and healthy.

As we wrap up, it’s clear that caring for your baby’s delicate skin ain’t tough. The abovementioned baby lotions we’ve explored in this post, all $14.40 and under, are proof of that. Each one offers a blend of gentle ingredients designed to protect your little one’s skin at an affordable price. So choose the lotion that resonates with you the most, confident in the knowledge that you’re making a wise choice no matter what you pick.

An unambitious goal

Scaling slowly

More info to be provided

CAAS’ fixed cost approach

Search the site