From Accounting to Financial Advisory: My Journey of Discovery

Introduction

The Wake-Up Call

COVID-19 disrupted our lives, making us reassess our priorities. With the circuit breaker measures in place, I found myself with extra time. I decided to dive into my financials—a task I’d put off for far too long.

Insurance: More Than Just Policies

I always saw insurance as more than just a safety net; it was a key part of my risk management and wealth-building strategy. I had covered all bases—hospitalisation, disability, personal accident, life insurance, education funds, and retirement plans. I thought I was well-prepared for whatever came my way.

The Missing Piece: Financial Planning

But then reality hit. Have you ever felt like despite having insurance, something crucial was missing from your financial strategy?

I realised that having insurance alone wasn’t enough. I needed a comprehensive financial plan.

I discovered that regular portfolio reviews were essential, especially since I was invested in investment-linked plans. My previous financial adviser had failed to conduct these reviews, leaving me in the dark about my true financial situation.

The Quest for Independence

Determined to take control, I explored my options. I met various advisers through Facebook ads, but none met my expectations:

• Understanding My Needs: I needed someone who truly understood my unique situation.
• Independent Advice: I wanted unbiased guidance, free from product sales pressure.
• Investment Savvy: I was looking for more than a one-size-fits-all approach; I needed a deep understanding of investments.
• Wealth Growth: Long-term profitability was crucial.

Banks and Beyond

Even the banks fell short. They lacked holistic financial planning and accountability. Frustrated, I decided to become my own financial adviser. With my strong accounting background and meticulous attention to detail, I took on this role myself.

Driven by a quest for perfection, I dove deep into online research. But I soon realised it only scratched the surface and didn’t provide the full picture. I was missing out on tailored solutions designed for both mass affluent and retail markets. This realisation led me to join the financial advisory industry to get a more comprehensive perspective.

The Eye-Opening Industry 

Joining the financial advisory field was eye-opening. I learned that not all firms are created equal. Only a few are truly independent and committed to offering unbiased advice. The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) emphasises fair dealing and the importance of regular portfolio reviews, reinforcing the need for comprehensive financial planning.

My Mission

Three years ago, I plunged into financial research and hands-on experience, discovering my true passion for financial planning. This journey didn’t just shape my career; it became a personal quest to help others achieve their financial dreams and secure their future. I’m on this path for myself as well.

• Empowering Your Early Retirement: With my F.I.T. program, I’m dedicated to helping you retire 10 to 15 years earlier than planned. The Trigger Point Investment Strategy is a key tool in this process.
• Income and Asset Protection: I’m here to help safeguard your most valuable assets and ensure long-term security for you and your loved ones.
• Legacy Building: Building wealth isn’t just about today—it’s about creating a lasting impact for future generations. My mission is to help you leave a meaningful legacy that benefits those who follow.

Insights for My Clients

I genuinely believe that everyone deserves clarity when it comes to their finances. Here’s how I make that happen:

1. Breaking Down Complexity

Financial jargon can be a real head-scratcher. That’s why I take the time to simplify complex concepts and explain them in straightforward terms. Whether it’s figuring out investment options, understanding protection plans, or planning for retirement, I’m here to make it clear. I’ll look at your current financial situation, talk about your goals, and work together to create a plan that works for you.

2. Inspiration and Motivation

Achieving financial freedom isn’t just about crunching numbers; it’s also about having the right mindset. I love sharing inspiring stories and practical tips that help you avoid common financial pitfalls. By making informed choices, you set yourself up for lasting financial well-being and a brighter future.

Customized Investment Strategies

Investing is personal, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Based on extensive research and industry insights, here are two key strategies that have proven effective:

1.Trigger Point Strategy: Buy Low, Sell High (Without Timing the Market)

The market can be unpredictable, but we can leverage its volatility to our advantage. Instead of trying to time or predict market movements—an often elusive goal even for experienced investors—I use the Trigger Point Investment Strategy to navigate market volatility effectively. Here’s how it works

• The Trigger: When index (such as MSCI World) reaches a predetermined level—our “trigger”—we take action.
• Buy Low: If the Index drops to our trigger point, we consider it an opportunity to buy low.
• Sell High: Conversely, when the Index rises to the trigger point, we evaluate whether it’s time to sell high.

This approach uses established benchmarks, such as the Price -to-Book Ratio (PB ratio) of the index, and relies on the principle of reversion to the mean to manage risk and keep us on track, all while avoiding the stress and uncertainty of market timing. The underlying investments include index funds, unit trusts, and bonds.

2. Quantitative Multi-Strategy Model (“Quant”)

This approach combines multiple strategies using ETFs as underlying assets, alongside robust risk management techniques. It’s designed to optimize portfolio performance while effectively managing risk.

Leveraging My Business Experience

But there’s more to my story. With a business-savvy mindset, I make sure my experience isn’t wasted.

When creating financial plans for business owners, I leverage my expertise in accounting, business tax planning, risk management, and government grants. My goal is to add value by making their businesses more tax-efficient and financially robust, while also focusing on wealth transfer and legacy planning

From Accounting Roots to Financial Advisory: A Transformative Journey

For those eyeing early retirement, discover how the Bespoke FIT program, combined with the Trigger Point Investment Strategy, can help you retire 10 to 15 years ahead of schedule. Let’s explore how this tailored approach can accelerate your journey to financial freedom and secure your future.

For business owners, let’s delve into how I can enhance your business’s financial health, optimize tax efficiency, and implement effective wealth transfer and legacy planning. By doing so, you’ll ensure your business remains strong and your legacy endures for future generations.

Ready to take the next step in securing your financial future? Reach out today to start your journey toward financial empowerment and a well-planned legacy. Let’s connect and make your financial goals a reality!