MoneyDigest - Personal Finance, Lifestyle, Money Saving Tips

Singaporeans Are Borrowing More Than Ever

Singaporean households are taking on more debt than before, yet the broader financial landscape tells a reassuring story. Household balance sheet numbers from the recent Singapore Department of Statistics (SingStat) release showed that liabilities grew for the sixth consecutive quarter, rising 5.2% in the first quarter of 2025 compared with the same period a year ago and reaching $384.1 billion. This marks the sixth consecutive quarter of rising debt, driven mainly by increased borrowing for property purchases and other major expenses.

But don’t mistake rising debt for financial distress. For many Singaporeans, taking on long-term loans to finance big-ticket items such as homes is a sensible strategy, especially when balanced with careful cash management for everyday costs. In a city where the cost of living never sleeps, spreading payments over time helps families better manage their cash flow.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Meanwhile, household financial assets have grown even faster, increasing by around 7.5% compared with a year ago to an estimated S$670.1 billion. This means that the liquid assets Singaporeans hold, including cash and bank deposits, comfortably cover their debts. With assets outpacing liabilities, overall household net worth remains healthy, climbing 8.1% in the first quarter compared to a year earlier, reaching $3.1 trillion. This marks a slight slowdown from the previous quarter’s 8.5% growth, but the momentum is unmistakable.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Experts point out that housing loans continue to dominate household debt portfolios. Mortgage loans now represent more than 70% of total liabilities. Yet, resilient property values have provided a sturdy cushion, shielding households from overexposure and bolstering their net worth.

In essence, borrowing when paired with strong asset growth and responsible repayment can be a sign of financial strength rather than vulnerability.

Sources: 1 & 2

Watsons is running a “30% Off All Skincare” event till 1 June 2025, and here are some best sellers under $30

Two full days left to enjoy 30% off skincare products at Watsons!

You don’t want to miss out on their full list of items, but for the sake of this article, we’re spotlighting some best sellers under $30.

Hurry with your purchases because the promotion ends on Sunday, 1 June 2025

WATSONS Foot Peeling Mask

Promo Price: $3.46

Target dry feet with this foot peeling mask from WATSONS.

This treatment is an easy way to reveal soft skin without a pricey pedi.

Just apply the mask, let it work its magic for 60 to 90 minutes, then rinse.

The next day, soak your feet in warm water to speed up the peeling process.

There’s no need to use painful foot files for your feet for them to feel as a newborn’s; the mask does all the exfoliating work for you.

ACNES High Oil Absorbent & Anti-Bacterial Acne Patch for Night

Promo Price: $5.18

Fed up with pimples ruining your complexion?

These high-absorbent acne patches have your back with their medical-grade technology that drinks up pus and oil like a thirsty sponge, while the breathable barrier protects your pimple from further infection.

And thanks to their antibacterial properties, these tiny stickers fight acne-causing bacteria to help your skin heal.

They are also very thin, with an invisible design that conceals blemishes without telling the world “I’ve got a breakout!”

SUNPLAY Ultra Shield UV Body Mist SPF 130

Promo Price: $16.90

If you hate thick, greasy sun protection, you will grow to love SUNPLAY’s Ultra Shield UV Body Mist SPF 130.

This non-greasy aerosol spray makes applying (and re-applying) sunscreen easy with its convenient spray application.

Water resistant and formulated to last, this spray can lets you stay shielded through outdoor activities.

And despite offering maximum sun protection, the non-sticky formula infused with aloe vera and vitamin E feels lightweight.

When the day is done, remove it easily with your regular cleanser.

MELANO CC Vitamin C Concentrated Brightening Essence

Promo Price: $17.78

Banish uneven skin with MELANO CC’s concentrated vitamin C essence’s active ingredients, which penetrate deep to target dark spots and pigmentation.

It also floods skin with hydrating moisture to plump up cells while antibacterial agents act on acne-causing bacteria.

Long-term use will result in a better complexion with fewer blemishes and scarring.

NEUTROGENA Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturizer

Promo Price: $20.23

This Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Moisturizer is what your skin craves.

Formulated with a progressive 12-hour release system, this gel gives a sustained moisture flow that lasts all day.

Unlike other moisturizers that quench only to abandon you hours later, Hydro Boost restores your skin’s moisture levels by over 200% and keeps them evenly hydrated!

Click through this link to shop Watsons’ 30% off skincare products now!

6 newly built accommodations in Vientiane, Laos, to book a fresh stay in 2025

Need a fresh destination to travel to?

Give your usual travel spots a break and go for a new place this time around in…

Vientiane, Laos!

And coupled with a fresh destination is a list of newly built accommodations there, so you can have a fresh stay in 2025.

Take a look!

Latsavong Wanda Vista Vientiane

Agoda Rating: 9.4 (200+ reviews)

Opened in 2024, the Latsavong Wanda Vista Vientiane brings a fresh flair to the heart of Vientiane.

Just 8.5 km from the international airport, this new hotel makes a great “home base”.

It’s also about a 10-minute drive to View Mall (shopping mall).

Traveling with little ones?

They will love the huge outdoor pool area with child-friendly facilities.

Adults will also love that kids under 6 stay free using existing bedding in the rooms, ranging from deluxe types to suites and executive/business options.

Amari Vientiane

Agoda Rating: 9.3 (100+ reviews)

Amari Vientiane is a 5-star retreat that opened its doors in 2025.

Yes, this year!

Perfectly positioned less than 300 m from the Vientiane Night Market and Mekong Riverside Park, you can choose from a range of suite accommodations with city or river views.

Kids under 11 stay free using existing bedding.

There’s also a full-service spa on-site.

Best of all, it’s just 3.6 km from Wattay International Airport, so no long car rides to and fro.

Holiday Inn And Suites Vientiane By IHG

Agoda Rating: 9.2 (100+ reviews)

This 5-star hotel opened its doors in 2024 with a prime location just 3.2 km from Wattay International Airport and within 800 m of Vientiane Night Market and Mekong Riverside Park.

Whether you’re traveling solo or bringing the family, Holiday Inn has a room to fit your needs—from standard rooms to premiums and suites, some even offering kitchenettes.

Kids 12 and under stay free when sharing your room.

Souphattra Heritage Vientiane

Agoda Rating: 9.1 (100+ reviews)

Just 4 km from the airport, this new 5-star accommodation fuses luxury with heritage.

Retire to majestic suites or book a heritage room honoring traditional design.

Wake up refreshed from your midday nap and stroll 200 m to Vientiane Night Market, savoring the sights and aromas of local foods.

SNResidences

Agoda Rating: 9.1 (70+ reviews)

Just arrived in 2024, this new condominium-style property is situated 6.1 km from Wattay International Airport and 2 km from Patuxay Victory Monument.

On-site, there’s an outdoor pool, gym, and a choice of studio, suite, or spacious one- to two-bedroom apartments.

Souphattra Hotel Vientiane

Agoda Rating: 9.1 (50+ reviews)

Last but not least, we have this brand-new Souphattra Hotel Vientiane, built in 2024, a 5-star hotel with a central location that puts you just 500 m from Patuxay Victory Monument and a short 5.8 km drive from Wattay International Airport.

After a day out exploring, relax in the rooftop pool while taking in city views, or retreat to one of their suites, some featuring city views.

40+ newly launched stuff in May 2025 from Daiso Korea to buy & bring back to Singapore

Korea has recently entered its summer season, so it’s the perfect time to bring back some summer season launches from Daiso Korea.

This month, we’ve got several pet-specific new items great for pet owners, or if you know of someone who is, those items make good gifts/souvenirs.

Take a look and happy shopping in the land of kimchi

#1: MODA MODA Zero Gray Black Shampoo (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.83 SGD)

#2: MODA MODA Gray Hair Coverage Tattoo (Giant Brush) (1,000 KRW; approx. 0.94 SGD)

#3: MODA MODA Gray Hair All Cover Stick (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.71 SGD)

#4: MODA MODA Silk Water Coloring (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.71 SGD)

#5: ‘from the skin’ Outdoor Sun Gel Patch (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.83 SGD)

#6: ‘from the skin’ Glow Miracle Sun Balm (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.71 SGD)

#7: ‘from the skin’ Glow Sun Cream (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.71 SGD)

#8: UV Protection Umbrellas (Assorted) (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.71 SGD)

#9: UV Protection Base Layer Top (Black / White) (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.71 SGD)

#10: UV Protection Arm Cover (Assorted) (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.88 SGD)

#11: Neck Cover Sun Cap (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.83 SGD)

#12: Cool Scarf (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.88 SGD)

#13: BORYUNG Coat Care (Collagen for Pets) (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.83 SGD)

#14: BORYUNG Oral Health Care (Spirulina for Pets) (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.83 SGD)

#15: BORYUNG Immunity Care (Colostrum for Pets) (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.83 SGD)

#16: BORYUNG Multi-Care (Probiotics, Boswellia, Spirulina & Lutein for Pets) (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.83 SGD)

#17: BORYUNG Joint Care (Boswellia for Pets) (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.83 SGD)

#18: BORYUNG Eye Care (Lutein for Pets) (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.83 SGD)

#19: Woven Handbags (Assorted) (Small for 2,000 KRW; approx. 1.88 SGD) (Medium for 3,000 KRW; approx. 2.83 SGD)

#20: Foldable Pocket Fans (1,000 KRW; approx. 0.94 SGD)

#21: Wooden Stick Fan (1,000 KRW; approx. 0.94 SGD)

#22a: ‘Cool Touch’ Pillow Cover (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.88 SGD)

#22b: ‘Cool Touch’ Blanket (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.71 SGD)

#23: ‘Cool Touch’ Pillow (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.83 SGD)

#24: ‘Cool Touch’ Multi-Use Mat (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.71 SGD)

#25: Training Shorts (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.83 SGD)

#26: Homewear Set (Top + Bottom) (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.71 SGD)

#27: Indoor Ribbon Slippers (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.71 SGD)

#28: Hawaiian Pet Shirt (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.83 SGD)

#29: Assorted Pet Toys (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.88 SGD)

#30: Cooling Sleeveless Pet Tee (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.83 SGD)

#31a: Cheerleader’s Pet One-Piece (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.83 SGD)

#31b: Racket & Ball Pet Toys (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.83 SGD)

#32: Ballet Pet Dress (3,000 KRW; approx. 2.83 SGD)

#33: Cool Pillow Mat (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.71 SGD)

#34: ‘Cool Touch’ Cushion (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.71 SGD)

#35: Sponge Cool Mats (Assorted Sizes) (2,000 KRW ~ 5,000 KRW; approx. 1.88 SGD ~ 4.71 SGD)

#36: Gel Type Cool Mats (Assorted Sizes) (2,000 KRW ~ 5,000 KRW; approx. 1.88 SGD ~ 4.71 SGD)

#37a: Neck Band Fan (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.71 SGD)

#37b: LED Handy Stand Fan (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.71 SGD)

#37c: Squarish Table Fan (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.71 SGD)

#37d: Mini Handy Clamp-Style Fan (5,000 KRW; approx. 4.71 SGD)

#38: Checklist Stickers (1,000 KRW; approx. 0.94 SGD)

#39: Foldable Index Stickers (5 Pcs) (Pastel / Brown) (1,000 KRW; approx. 0.94 SGD)

#40: Pastel Stickers (10 Pcs) (Labels / Circles) (1,000 KRW; approx. 0.94 SGD)

#41: Character Coloring Books (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.88 SGD)

#42: Character Puzzles (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.88 SGD)

#43: Character Water Coloring Books (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.88 SGD)

#44: Character Sticker Books (2,000 KRW; approx. 1.88 SGD)

All image credits to Daiso Korea.

Price conversion from KRW to SGD is accurate at the time of writing.

6 black dresses under $56 to have in your wardrobe because ‘little black dresses’ never go out of style

We all know that fashion changes fast, but one piece has stood the test of time: the little black dress.

And that’s why we think it’s a must-have for any wardrobe!

Whether you want to survive a day at the office or strut down the streets in town, these black dresses under $56 can take you to places

Grace Sleeveless Linen Babydoll Dress with Pockets

Price: $38.90

First up, we have perfection in babydoll dress form, a linen number that’s casual chic, combining a free-flowing fit with details like a smocked back and adjustable straps.

There are also side pockets—because what’s a day dress without somewhere to tuck your essentials?

Made using an airy linen blend with an inner lining for coverage.

Throw it over a cardi and you can head out the door in 60 seconds flat.

Cynthia Padded Cap Sleeve Dress (Black)

Price: $43.90

Polished and practical, this little black dress strikes a balance with a curve-complementing silhouette.

It features an A-line cut, round neckline, and cap sleeves.

It also has a concealed back zipper, while removable padding offers customizable coverage.

Made using a polyester/rayon blend with a slight stretch, this dress molds to your body without sacrificing comfort.

Plus, its low-maintenance fabric stays crisp all day, from morning meetings at the office to evening cocktails at the bar.

Jules Puffy Sleeves Babydoll Dress in Black

Price: $51.50

Stand out with puffy sleeves and a babydoll silhouette in this The Velvet Dolls’ dress made of a cotton blend.

This number is fully lined so it skims your figure without clinging.

A concealed back zip keeps things sleek, while elasticized armbands give those puffy sleeves their shape and volume.

Comes with functional side pockets, this dress is a piece you can wear now and later.

Prism Pleated Crochet Midi Dress In Black

Price: $53.90

This fit and flare midi dress in a classic black polyester blend has a sweetheart neckline adorned with crochet trim, an adjustable self-tie ribbon, and a pleated bottom.

The stretchy smocked back allows for movement while you strut your stuff, and the fully-lined fabric keeps things demure.

Two side pockets add a practical touch.

Nareen Cap Sleeve Dropwaist Dress

Price: $54

A versatile weekend fashion warrior, this cap-sleeved dress features a loose dropwaist detail and lightweight tencel cotton blend fabric for all-day comfort.

It also has underarm panels to conceal bra bulge and invisible side pockets for stashing essentials.

A fully lined piece you can wear to brunch with sneakers.

Editor’s note: This is a backorder design with an estimated arrival date in July 2025.

Georgette Mesh Midi Dress

Price: $55.90

Last but not least, we have this Georgette Mesh Midi Dress with a mesh overlay that floats over its silhouette, creating a play of sheer and sultry.

Figure-sculpting ruched accents flow across the bodice, while a concealed back zip offers a neat finish.

Comes with removable padding that lets you customize the coverage and is made from a polyester blend with cotton-polyester lining.

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