Pop Mart is a rapidly growing company known for its collectible toys and blind box figures. It has successfully captured the attention of toy enthusiasts worldwide by blending the excitement of unboxing with creative and diverse designs. Among its many characters, Labubu has recently risen to fame, particularly after a viral Instagram post by K-pop star Lisa. The post introduced Labubu to a broader audience, sparking immense interest and contributing to its surge in popularity. Labubu, a mischievously adorable creature with triangle-shaped teeth, has a distinctive charm that appeals to collectors and casual fans alike. Its quirky design and unique aesthetic set it apart from other collectibles in the Pop Mart lineup. Many fans adore Labubu for its playful expression and whimsical personali

The first thing people might do when they open their Tiger Brokers app is check whether they can retire. But unlike them, I look for small victories to celebrate - like a stock that is down less than usual [Thinking]

The stock price of ZIM Integrated Shipping Services (ZIM) fell sharply by 10.29% yesterday, closing at USD 24.23. The decline appears to be driven by a downgrade from analysts who have revised their outlook on the stock to a “Sell” rating. 1. Dividend Yield and Ex-Dividend Date ZIM boasts a high dividend yield, which has been a key attraction for income-focused investors. The ex-dividend date is approaching on December 2, 2024, with a declared dividend of USD 3.65 per share. Investors who purchase the stock before this date will be eligible to receive the dividend. However, the high dividend might already be priced into the stock, reducing further upward potential. 2. Financial Performance The company’s financial performance has shown significant improvement in 2024 compared to the challen

Yesterday, MicroStrategy (MSTR) experienced a significant drop, declining by 16.16% to close at $397.28. The stock's trading range for the day was exceptionally wide, spanning from a low of $371.84 to a high of $543—a massive $171.16 range. This level of volatility highlights the risks associated with trading the stock, especially for those who may have purchased at the intraday peak of $543. Imagine holding an unrealized loss of nearly 27% within just a single trading session—such a scenario can be devastating for investors. The decline may have been partly triggered by Citron Research's announcement of a short position in MSTR. Citron, known for its critical reports, often targets companies with high valuations or perceived vulnerabilities. Their announcement likely spooked investors,

Investing or trading Bitcoin and related stocks might be enticing to some, but I choose to steer clear of them for several reasons. My decision is based on a combination of financial principles, personal risk tolerance etc. Below, I outline the key reasons why I avoid these investments: 1. High Volatility and Risk Bitcoin and related assets are notoriously volatile, with their prices subject to extreme fluctuations over short periods. As a risk-averse individual, this level of unpredictability does not align with my investment philosophy. For example, the price of Bitcoin can swing by a lot within hours, making it difficult to predict its value or plan a reliable strategy. Such volatility exposes investors to potential significant losses, which I prefer to avoid. 2. Lack of Income Generati

Google's stock (Alphabet Inc., trading as GOOG) closed at $169.24 yesterday, marking a significant 4.56% decline from the previous day. This drop coincides with escalating concerns over antitrust lawsuits that continue to loom over the company. The uncertainty generated by these legal challenges may explain the recent pullback in its stock price. Here are several key points to consider when evaluating whether Google is a "buy": 1. Ongoing Antitrust Lawsuits Google remains under scrutiny as antitrust litigation intensifies. These lawsuits create a significant overhang for investors, introducing regulatory uncertainty and potential financial liabilities. The outcomes could force Google to alter its business model or pay hefty fines, which might impact future profitability. 2. Financial Stren

Recently, MSTR (MicroStrategy) and MSTU (T-Rex Long MSTU Daily Target ETF) have experienced notable price increases, drawing significant attention from investors. While I don’t currently hold positions in either of these assets and didn’t benefit from their recent performance, I’ve chosen to stick to my investment principles. Here’s why: 1. Avoiding FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) The surge in MSTR and MSTU might be enticing for many, but FOMO is a dangerous motivator in investing. Chasing an asset simply because it’s rising often leads to hasty decisions. I believe in staying grounded and following a disciplined approach rather than rushing into a trend without due diligence. 2. The Trap of Buying High, Selling Low One of the most common pitfalls for investors is getting swept up in the hype,

Bubble tea has become a global phenomenon, especially in places like Singapore where bubble tea shops are abundant. However, I tend to avoid buying bubble tea as part of my effort to live a healthier lifestyle. Here are some reasons why I have made this choice, as well as thoughts on enjoying bubble tea responsibly: 1. Health Considerations Bubble tea is often high in sugar, with sweeteners and sugary syrups used to flavor the tea and the tapioca pearls (commonly known as boba). Consuming bubble tea regularly can lead to an excessive intake of calories and sugar, which may contribute to health issues like weight gain, diabetes, or other related conditions. However, not all bubble tea is unhealthy—some shops offer reduced sugar levels, sugar-free options, or healthier ingredients like fresh

The performance of Singapore's Straits Times Index (STI) has been impressive recently, reflecting a surge in investor confidence and strong fundamentals among the listed companies. Unfortunately, I do not currently hold any Singapore stocks and haven’t been able to benefit from this rise. However, if I were to pick a favorite Singapore stock, it would definitely be DBS Bank, given the many benefits it brings to Singaporeans and its positive societal impact. Why DBS Bank Stands Out DBS Bank is not only a leading financial institution in Asia but also a socially conscious company that provides tangible benefits to the community. For instance, its PayLah! $3 cashback campaign on Saturdays is a small but impactful gesture that helps Singaporeans save money and reduce the cost of living. Such i

I have decided not to purchase Pinduoduo (PDD) stock before its earnings report due to several factors that make it an unappealing investment at this time. First, there is significant uncertainty surrounding the company's upcoming earnings, which could lead to unpredictable price movements. Such volatility increases the risk of short-term losses. Second, Pinduoduo does not pay dividends, meaning it does not provide direct returns to shareholders through cash payouts. This makes it less attractive for investors like me who prioritize income-generating assets or companies that share profits with their investors. Lastly, the stock is currently trading at a relatively high price, which might not justify its valuation considering the risks and market conditions. This premium pricing creates

Many investors seem to be overly optimistic about NVIDIA, and it’s worth examining whether this enthusiasm is justified. While NVIDIA is undoubtedly a fantastic company with cutting-edge technology and a dominant position in key markets like GPUs and AI hardware, its valuation raises significant concerns. Here are several points to consider: 1. Earnings Expectations and Overvaluation NVIDIA's upcoming earnings report is eagerly anticipated, but current market sentiment may already be pricing in extremely high growth expectations. The company’s past financial data, including impressive net income and EPS, supports its reputation as a tech leader. However, these strong fundamentals do not necessarily justify its lofty valuation. NVIDIA’s price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio is significantly higher

The SMCI stock price saw an uptick on Monday and Tuesday, attributed to the announcement of a compliance plan and the appointment of a new auditor. While this news may have temporarily boosted investor sentiment, I personally don't see it as a compelling reason to buy the stock just yet. Here's why: Impact on Fundamentals: These developments, while positive in terms of governance and regulatory compliance, do not directly address the company's core financial performance or operational challenges. For me, any investment decision must be grounded in substantial improvements in earnings, revenue growth, or market positioning, none of which appear to have changed based on this news. Market Overreaction: Stock markets often react strongly to news that has limited long-term impact. In this case,

The U.S. automobile industry is home to numerous car companies catering to a diverse range of consumers, from luxury electric vehicles to traditional combustion-engine cars. Many of these companies are publicly traded, providing investors with opportunities to participate in their growth and financial performance. Below is an analysis of three prominent car companies—Tesla, Ford, and General Motors—based on their recent stock performance and financial outlook. 1. Tesla, Inc. (TSLA) Tesla is arguably the most well-known electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer globally and a leader in the EV revolution. Its stock has been a favorite among growth-oriented investors. Stock Performance: Tesla’s stock closed at $346 yesterday. The stock has demonstrated significant growth over the years, reflecting s

The S&P 500 has seen remarkable growth in recent years, reflecting significant optimism in the market. However, with such elevated levels, investors often face the dilemma of whether it's safe to invest. Here are some critical considerations and strategies for navigating this situation. Potential Scenarios for the S&P 500 Market Correction (Prices Falling Due to Profit-Taking) After a significant rise, a common concern is that investors may sell off their holdings to lock in profits, leading to a market correction. This scenario aligns with the adage, "What goes up must come down," especially if valuations become too stretched or economic conditions deteriorate. A correction can be healthy in the long run but unsettling for investors caught off-guard. Sideways Movement (Market Stay

Selecting the right stocks to monitor isn’t just about spotting trends; it requires understanding the why behind each decision. Here's a step-by-step approach to stock selection, complete with examples and explanations of why these factors are important. 1. Evaluate Net Income: Is the Company Profitable? Why It Matters: A company with positive net income is making a profit, which indicates financial health and a better chance of long-term survival. Negative net income suggests the company might be struggling, which increases risk. Example: Company A: Net income of -$50 million (negative) [Facepalm]. Company B: Net income of $100 million (positive) [USD]. Decision: I focus on Company B, as profitability shows the company is generating more revenue than expenses, a critical sign of stabilit

I'm keeping an eye on Tesla’s stock today, even though I don’t hold any shares myself. It's currently up more than 5% in pre-market trading, which is interesting, especially considering the stock’s already high price. I’m genuinely puzzled about why people are still buying into it at these elevated levels. While there are probably multiple factors at play, one clear reason might be the recent victory of Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election. Investors could be betting that his win will lead to a more business-friendly environment, potentially benefiting companies like Tesla. With Trump’s policies historically favoring deregulation, tax cuts, and support for big corporations, some might see his presidency as a catalyst for increased growth for tech companies, especially in the ener

When investors invest in the stock market for the long term, it’s important to acknowledge that profits are never guaranteed. While many times the market trends upward, there will always be periods when things don't go as expected. Such challenges are an inherent part of stock investing. For example, one of the darkest moments in investing can be having to sell at a loss or witnessing a company go bankrupt. Both of these situations can be emotionally taxing, but they are part of the risk investors must be willing to accept. That's why I always strive to manage my risks carefully. One key strategy is to only invest money I can afford to lose, ensuring that any downturn doesn't jeopardize my financial stability. In addition to that, I focus on diversification—spreading investments across d

Have I ever faced a darkest moment? Yes, obviously, given my age and the ups and downs of life. But when I reflect on my journey, a more recent moment stands out – one that I encountered in investing. It's the time I made the decision not to sell my TLT ETF when it crossed $100 per share. Fast forward to today, and it's now hovering around $90, which can be a little disheartening. At first, I felt a pang of regret, thinking about the opportunity I missed to realize a profit. It's easy to get caught up in the 'what-ifs,' especially when you see the market fluctuating and realize you could have capitalized on that swing. But then, I remind myself that trading isn't just about catching the highs; it's also about managing risk and having a long-term perspective. I look on the bright side o

I really like Disneyland and have always been fascinated by it, even though I haven’t had the chance to visit one yet. The idea of stepping into a magical world filled with enchanting Disney characters is incredibly exciting. I’ve always admired the creativity behind Disney’s stories, and the fairytale atmosphere of Disneyland seems like the perfect place to experience that magic in real life. The park looks absolutely stunning, with its beautifully designed attractions, vibrant parades, and immersive themes. I imagine it would be amazing to explore iconic locations like Sleeping Beauty’s Castle or Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. I’m also intrigued by the idea of meeting beloved Disney characters in person and seeing them come to life—it would feel like stepping straight into the movies I grew

December has not arrived yet, so the Federal Reserve's decision on a potential rate cut remains uncertain. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that there are still key economic reports to be released between now and December. Data on retail sales, consumer confidence, manufacturing activity, and housing market trends, among others, could influence the Fed's decision. If the data points to a significant slowdown in economic activity or if inflation cools more than expected, the case for a rate cut could strengthen. I think that if there is a rate cut, the cut is likely to be small. A small cut, such as 25 basis points, might signal caution. On the other hand, a larger cut, like 50 basis points, seems less likely unless there are significant signs of economic weakness, such as tightenin