Core Insights - Dividend investing focuses on building a sustainable income stream that grows over time rather than just seeking high payouts [1][22] Rule 1: Focus on Dividend Growth, Not Just Yield - High yields can indicate higher risk or unsustainable payouts; consistent dividend growth based on real profits and strong cash flow is more important [2] - Singapore Exchange (SGX: S68) has consistently increased its dividend from S$0.32 per share in FY2022 to S$0.375 in FY2025, showcasing steady performance [3] - Parkway Life REIT (SGX: C2PU) has increased its core distributions every year since 2007, with a 2.3% increase to S$0.1156 for 3Q2025 [4][5] Rule 2: Prioritise Quality and Resilience - Quality companies with stable earnings, solid balance sheets, and manageable debt are essential for a successful dividend portfolio [6] - CapitaLand Integrated Commercial Trust (SGX: C38U) reported a 1.6% YoY increase in net property income to S$294.4 million for 3Q2025 [7] - Singapore Technologies Engineering (SGX: S63) reported a 9% YoY revenue increase to S$9.1 billion for 9M2025, maintaining consistent dividend payouts [9][10] Rule 3: Diversify Across Sectors and Markets - Concentrating investments in a single sector can lead to vulnerabilities; diversification across sectors mitigates risks [11][12] - A suggested allocation is 40% in REITs, 30% in banks, 20% in consumer staples/utilities, and 10% in overseas stocks to ensure steady income [12][13] Rule 4: Reinvest Dividends to Boost Compounding - Reinvesting dividends can significantly enhance portfolio growth over time, as compounding increases the number of shares owned [15][16] - For example, DBS Group's dividends increased from S$1.09 per share in 2021 to an annualized S$3.00 per share in 2025 for those who reinvested [16][17] Rule 5: Review Regularly but Avoid Overreacting - Regular portfolio reviews are important, but investors should focus on fundamentals rather than market fluctuations [18][20] - Singapore Telecommunications Limited (SGX: Z74) proposed a total FY2025 dividend of S$0.17, up from S$0.15 in FY2024, demonstrating stability despite market conditions [19] Conclusion - A strong dividend portfolio combines growth, quality, and discipline, focusing on companies that consistently raise payouts and maintain solid financials [22][23]

Economic Landscape - The current economic environment presents heightened uncertainty for investors, driven by concerns over AI bubbles, overvalued U.S. asset prices, and ongoing economic and geopolitical tensions [1] Investment Strategies - Broadening exposure to global equities is recommended as a strategy, with the S&P World Index gaining 16.39% over the past year and 0.91% quarter to date, outperforming the S&P 500 [2] Investor Sentiment - U.S. equity funds experienced a slowdown in demand, with only $1.15 billion added in the week ending Nov. 12, marking the weakest weekly net inflow since mid-October [3][4] - Inflows into U.S. large-cap funds dropped sharply to $2.35 billion from $11.91 billion the previous week, indicating a shift in investor sentiment [4] AI Bubble Concerns - There are growing concerns on Wall Street regarding a potential bubble in the AI sector, with fears that excessive capital inflow may obscure future revenue and profit visibility [5] Sector Exposure - Portfolios heavily invested in U.S. market indexes like the S&P 500 are significantly exposed to the information technology sector, particularly the "Magnificent 7" tech leaders [6] - Approximately 36% of the S&P 500 is allocated to information technology, highlighting the importance of managing concentration risk and ensuring diversification [7] International Equity ETFs - Adding international equity ETFs can enhance geographical exposure and improve overall diversification, with specific ETFs like Schwab Fundamental International Equity ETF (FNDF) and Dimensional International Core Equity Market ETF (DFAI) showing significant exposure to Japan, the U.K., and Canada [8][9] Dividend-Focused Funds - Global dividend-focused funds are recommended for reliable income during market volatility, with options like WisdomTree International Hedged Quality Dividend Growth Fund (IHDG) and Vanguard International Dividend Appreciation ETF (VIGI) offering attractive dividend yields [11][12] Emerging Market ETFs - Emerging market ETFs present opportunities for higher returns, with inflows of $2.17 billion in the week ending Nov. 12, marking a third consecutive week of additions [13] - The Dow Jones Emerging Markets Index has gained 21.05% over the past year and 1.05% quarter to date, indicating strong performance [13]

Core Insights - Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) provide investors with exposure to a diversified basket of stocks and can also pay dividends, making them suitable for different investment strategies based on age and financial goals [1][2] Group 1: Dividend ETFs for Retirees - Dividend ETFs are particularly beneficial for retirees as they generate annual income and offer diversification [2] - The Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD) aims to track the Dow Jones U.S. Dividend 100 Index, with an expense ratio of 0.06% and a return of 33% over the past five years, while maintaining a trailing-12-month dividend yield of nearly 3.8% [3][4] - The portfolio of SCHD includes large-cap stocks across various sectors, providing solid diversification, with defensive stocks like Coca-Cola and Pepsi, and healthcare companies such as AbbVie and Merck [4][5] Group 2: Bond ETFs for Older Investors - As investors age, they tend to shift towards bonds to preserve their savings, with the Vanguard Intermediate-Term Bond ETF (VBIIX) fitting this strategy by tracking the Bloomberg U.S. 5-10 Year Government/Credit Float Adjusted Index [7][8] - VBIIX has an expense ratio of 0.03% and has experienced a 16% loss over the past five years due to rising interest rates, but it has maintained a trailing-12-month dividend yield of approximately 3.9% [9][10] - The ETF's portfolio consists of over half in U.S. government bonds, with 20% in corporate BBB bonds and 17% in A-rated bonds, indicating a focus on stability and safety [10][11]

Core Insights - The typical American aged 65 to 74 had $200,000 in retirement savings as of 2022, indicating that many older Americans rely heavily on Social Security to meet their financial needs [1] Group 1: Retirement Savings Strategies - Starting early in contributing to retirement accounts like IRAs or 401(k)s is crucial for wealth accumulation, even with small amounts [4] - Extending the savings period significantly increases the potential retirement nest egg; for example, saving $400 monthly for 30 years could yield around $544,000, while extending it to 40 years could result in approximately $1.243 million, assuming an 8% return [5] - Investing wisely is essential; a conservative approach may lead to lower returns, while a stock-heavy portfolio can provide reasonable returns [7] Group 2: Investment and Spending Habits - Diversification across market segments and maintaining a long-term perspective during market downturns can help protect retirement portfolios [8] - Mindful spending on experiences rather than cutting back on all enjoyable activities can enhance quality of life while still contributing to retirement savings [9][10] - Careful selection of splurges allows individuals to enjoy life without compromising their financial goals, leading to a comfortable retirement [11]

Core Insights - The logistics sector has seen significant engagement from investors, particularly in the ASEAN and US markets, highlighting its growth potential and diversification opportunities [1] - The popularity of insurance companies in the Philippines since 2014 indicates a shift in investment strategies among local investors, moving towards a more diversified portfolio [1] - The trend of investing in blue-chip companies has evolved, with investors now holding a mix of stocks across various industries and market capitalizations, reflecting a more strategic approach to retirement and trading profits [1] Industry Focus - The banking sector remains a key area of investment, with holdings in both the Philippine and US markets, showcasing its stability and growth prospects [1] - The telecommunications industry is also a significant focus for investors, indicating its importance in the overall market landscape [1] - The hotel and logistics sectors are gaining traction, with investments reflecting confidence in their recovery and growth post-pandemic [1] Market Engagement - The entry into the US market has been a strategic move for investors, allowing for broader exposure and comparison with the ASEAN market [1] - The use of platforms like Seeking Alpha has facilitated knowledge sharing and analysis, enhancing investment decision-making processes [1] - The diversification into various sectors, including shipping and logistics, underscores a comprehensive investment strategy aimed at maximizing returns [1]

Core Viewpoint - The discussion focuses on the investment potential of platinum and palladium, highlighting their roles as alternatives to traditional precious metals like gold, particularly in the context of inflation and economic uncertainty [4][6][12]. Industry Overview - Platinum and palladium have been less prominent compared to gold and silver, but they are gaining attention due to their unique demand dynamics and potential as hedges against monetary risks [4][6]. - The demand for platinum is driven by both industrial and investment needs, with a significant portion of its use in various technologies, including hydrogen fuel cells [7][12]. Supply Dynamics - Platinum is approximately 30 times less abundant than gold, with most production concentrated in South Africa, primarily by Sibanye-Stillwater, which accounts for about 25% of global production [8][9]. - Recent production cuts by Sibanye-Stillwater due to low prices are expected to create a supply shortage, which could drive prices higher in the long term [20][21]. Investment Outlook - The PPLT ETF is highlighted as a strong investment choice, with expectations of increased demand for inflation hedges over the next decade [10][12]. - The price of platinum is anticipated to rise as it becomes a more recognized store of value, similar to gold, especially in times of economic volatility [15][16]. Market Trends - The price of platinum has seen a significant increase, with a reported 71% rise year-to-date, attributed to market realization of supply shortages and rising investment demand [19][20]. - The long-term outlook suggests that while industrial demand may stabilize, the growth in investment demand will be the primary driver for price increases [14][21]. Portfolio Allocation - It is suggested that investors consider a portfolio allocation of 5% to 15% in platinum, with the potential for higher positions due to its undervaluation compared to other metals [22].

Core Viewpoint - Farmers & Merchants Bancorp is launching a special voluntary program allowing shareholders with 99 shares or less to sell their shares without fees, aimed at increasing liquidity and portfolio diversification [1][2]. Group 1: Program Details - The program will be effective from November 19, 2025, to December 23, 2025, unless terminated or extended by the company [2]. - Eligible shareholders will be notified by mail about the program [2]. - The program will be administered by Georgeson LLC, with Computershare Trust Company serving as the paying agent [2]. Group 2: Company Overview - Farmers & Merchants Bancorp trades on the OTCQX under the symbol FMCB and is the parent company of Farmers & Merchants Bank of Central California [4]. - Founded in 1916, F&M Bank operates 33 locations in California and has $5.6 billion in assets [4]. - The bank has maintained a 5-Star rating from BauerFinancial for 35 consecutive years, making it one of the safest banks in the nation [4]. Group 3: Banking Services - F&M Bank offers a comprehensive range of loan, deposit, equipment leasing, and treasury management products for businesses, as well as consumer banking products [5]. - The bank received the highest rating of "Outstanding" from the FDIC in its last Community Reinvestment Act evaluation [5].

Core Insights - CBL & Associates Properties, Inc. (CBL) reported a significant increase in earnings for Q3 2025, with diluted EPS rising to $2.38 from $0.52 a year earlier, driven by gains on property sales and deconsolidation [2][10] - The stock has outperformed the S&P 500 Index, gaining 4.3% since the earnings report, and 13.3% over the past month [1] Financial Performance - Total revenues increased by 11.3% to $139.3 million from $125.1 million year-over-year, with rental revenues up 12.3% to $134.8 million [2] - Funds from operations (FFO) per diluted share rose 69.5% to $2.17, while adjusted FFO increased slightly by 0.6% to $1.55 [2] Operating Metrics - Same-center net operating income (NOI) grew by 1.1% year-over-year, with lifestyle centers showing a 15.2% increase [3] - Total portfolio occupancy improved to 90.2%, up from 89.3% a year earlier, with malls at 87.6% leased [4] Leasing Activity - CBL executed over 972,000 square feet of leases in the quarter, achieving a 17.1% average rent increase [5] - Same-center tenant sales per square foot increased by approximately 4.8% year-over-year [5] Management Commentary - Management described the quarter as "excellent," highlighting growth in same-center NOI, higher occupancy, and robust lease spreads [6] - The company is diversifying its tenant mix towards lifestyle and experiential offerings [6] Balance Sheet Management - CBL extended its non-recourse term loan, pushing out a major maturity cluster, and secured a new $43 million loan at a lower interest rate [7] - The company reported a $51.2 million gain on real estate asset sales, significantly contributing to the increase in net income [10] Outlook and Guidance - CBL reaffirmed its full-year 2025 FFO guidance at $6.98–$7.34 per share, with expectations for same-center NOI to range from a 2% decline to 0.5% growth [11] - Estimated capital needs for 2025 are projected at $137.5 million–$167.5 million [12] Transaction Activity - CBL generated over $238 million from property dispositions in 2025, including significant sales of various properties [13] - The company acquired four regional malls for $178.9 million, expanding its portfolio [14] Stock Buyback and Liquidity - CBL has repurchased approximately $7.3 million of stock and has a new $25 million buyback authorization in place [15] - The company maintained liquidity with $313 million in unrestricted cash and marketable securities at quarter-end [15]

The more your portfolio bores you, the richer you’ll likely become. ...

Core Insights - A woman named Sarah discovered her former employee benefits account is now worth approximately $18 million, potentially linked to a tech giant like Nvidia [2][3] - Financial expert Dave Ramsey advises her to diversify her investments and be cautious about tax implications from selling shares [3][4] Investment Strategy - Ramsey emphasizes the importance of not having a significant portion of net worth tied to a single stock, labeling it as "scary and unwise" [3][5] - He recommends consulting with a tax planner or investment adviser to minimize tax liabilities while diversifying her portfolio [5][6] Tax Considerations - The maximum federal capital gains tax rate for high earners is 20%, with an additional 7% state tax applicable in Washington State [4] - Selling even a small fraction of the account could push Sarah into the highest tax bracket, necessitating careful planning [3][4]