Bonds, ETFs, the Future: How to Make Your Money Work While You Sleep
No cap, you don’t need big bucks to start investing.
You’ve probably scrolled past TikToks about stocks, crypto, or “passive income hacks” and thought you’ll need big bucks to start. But investing isn’t just for rich uncles in suits. It’s one of the smartest things you can do to grow your money, and you can start way smaller than you think. But before we get into the magic number, let’s settle the basics.
Investing versus saving: What’s the difference?
Saving is like leaving your money to nap in a bank account. It’s safe but barely moving, earning less than one per cent interest a year. Investing, on the other hand, is like sending your money to the gym. It works harder, grows faster (if done right), and can outpace inflation. Sure, there’s a bit of risk, but risk is where the gains live.
Why bother investing?
Because inflation is eating your savings alive. Remember when kopi used to be $0.90? Now it’s $1.30, and that’s your sign. If your money is just sitting in a savings account, it’s slowly losing buying power. Investing helps your money grow faster than inflation so that future you can still afford your iced oat latte. Think of investing as your secret weapon for financial freedom. It’s how you make your money hustle for you instead of just sitting there.
Who should be investing?
Anyone who has an emergency fund covering three to six months of expenses is already in a good spot to start. Even students or fresh grads can invest! You don’t need to be rich or a finance pro (at least know some basics). Build wealth slowly and let compound interest do its magic.
What should you invest in?
If you’re a total beginner, Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs), which track a specific index or indices, are a great starting point because they spread out your risk. Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) are solid if you like the idea of earning dividends from property. Blue-chip stocks, like DBS or Singtel, are also beginner-friendly as they’re stable, well-known companies. And if all that sounds like too much work, robo-advisors are your set-and-forget solution.
So, how much do you really need?
With apps like Syfe or StashAway, you can begin with as little as $1. Want a slice of Apple or Tesla? Fractional shares mean you can own a piece without dropping hundreds. It’s less about the number you start with, and more about the habit of investing.
How do you start investing?
First, open a brokerage account or get on a robo-advisor. Apps like Moomoo, Tiger Brokers, or DBS Vickers let you do it yourself, while robo-advisors like Syfe, StashAway, or Endowus will invest for you. Start by setting aside a small part (10 to 20 per cent) of your monthly savings and put it to work. The goal is not to go all-in on the first day but to start early and stay consistent. Even if you don’t fully get all the finance jargon yet, don’t worry since you’ll learn as you go.
The sooner you start investing, the better, even if it’s just kopi money each month. Your future self will thank you for not waiting until you “have enough.” Start now, stay chill during market dips, and let your money grow while you focus on living your best life. Investing is for anyone who wants their money to work harder, even while you sleep.
We ask Ian Leong, CEO, Tiger Brokers Singapore about the trend of Gen Z investors on their app and this is what he said: "While much has been said about the financial pressures facing Gen Z - rising costs of living and uncertain job markets - what’s often overlooked is how this generation is actively reclaiming financial agency, particularly through investing.
"At Tiger Brokers Singapore, we have observed a 33.5% growth in number of Gen Z users from 2021 to 2024, reflecting a steady and growing commitment among young investors taking control of their financial futures. They are educating themselves, seeking out opportunities, and building portfolios earlier than any generation before.
"We believe this surge in Gen Z investors is driven by both accessibility and empowerment. Tiger Brokers has made it a priority to lower the barriers to investing, through offerings such as fractional shares and low trading commissions so that even those with small capital can get started. Beyond tools, we also aim to equip younger investors with the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions, through a growing ecosystem of in-app learning resources, university partnerships, and a vibrant in-app community. Our platform not only provides access, but also creates a space for peer learning, real-time market discussions, and ongoing financial literacy.
"Among Tiger's Gen Z investors in Singapore, 3 out of 4 are investing in equities, reflecting their strong preference for growth-oriented assets and confidence in the stock market. Beyond stocks, there is a noticeable interest in funds, suggesting that younger investors are also thinking long-term and beginning to diversify their portfolios. The presence of Gen Zs exploring options (typically viewed as a more complex and technical product) highlights their growing financial maturity and willingness to engage with more advanced strategies. Bonds, on the other hand, remain the least attractive, indicating a discerning approach where underperforming or lower-yield instruments are consciously deprioritised. Altogether, this signals a generation that is stepping into the markets with intent, curiosity, and a fast-evolving sense of sophistication."