Investing: The Overlooked Sidekick to Your Daily Routine
We all know the secret recipe for a balanced life: exercise, culinary skills, and early bedtime. Investing should fit in that four‑ingredient combo too, but it often sneaks out of the spotlight because it feels like a giant, intimidating task, right?
Why the “investment dilemma” hits hard in Singapore
- It starts with confusion: “Where do I even kick off?” That unanswered question can turn the brightest financial goals into a quick flash‑card of procrastination.
- Time is the ultimate hurdle: Between work, school, and all the Insta‑lifestyle stuff, a few minutes to search “Investing for Dummies” can feel like a luxury.
- Discipline + knowledge = the perfect storm: Without an organized plan, the balance shifts to ‘just skip it.’
The magic trick: Regular Savings Plans
Imagine a side‑kick that lands at the moment you turn 18— no manuals, no excessive research. Regular savings plans let you dip your toes into the investment pool with no head‑long plunge.
- Zero entry barrier: Just put a bit of your pocket money to work.
- Automatic growth: The plan takes care of complexity—your money starts growing while you’re busy scrolling.
- Built for real life: This is how Singaporeans launch their financial future without over‑engineering.
The payoff: Your nest egg grows while you’re still chasing TikTok hacks
By the time you finally open your browser and commit to a deep dive on investment strategies, your savings will already be on a steady upward trajectory. That tiny yet wild resource will help you fight future uncertainties and keep you on track when you’re ready for serious learning.
So next time you’re tempted to put investing on the back burner, consider a regular savings plan— it could be the most effortless step toward your long‑term financial fitness.
What is a regular savings plan?
Regular Savings Plans: Your Easy Path to the Stock Market
Think of a regular savings plan as a financial gym where you treat yourself to a steady workout instead of a crazy sprint. Every month you drop a set amount into a mix of blue‑chip stocks, REITs, and ETFs.
What’s the Big Idea?
- Dollar‑Cost Averaging (DCA) – You invest the same money each month, no matter if the market is rocketing or rock‑hounding.
- Beat the Volatility – Lucky for you, the plan cushions your portfolio from daily market jitters.
- Long‑Term Growth – With a hand‑shake at the market’s ups and downs, you ride the wave toward an upward trend.
Who Should Grab This?
- Newbies – You can start building a portfolio without the overwhelm.
- Busy Bees – If you’re juggling a job, family, or a side hustle, this keeps your investments on autopilot.
- Patience Lovers – It isn’t a “quick buck” scheme; it’s built for medium- to long‑term investing.
Don’t expect to strike gold overnight. But, if you stay the course, your money will likely grow as the market does over time. Ready to give it a shot? Your regular savings plan is waiting.
5 best regular savings plans in Singapore
Let’s Dive into Singapore’s Top 5 Savings Plans!
Picture this: you’re on the hunt for the smartest way to grow your money. We’ve handpicked five sizzling options that’ll make your wallet smile.
- DBS Invest‑Saver – A friendly guide for your first dip into investing.
- FSMOne Regular Savings Plan – The ultimate “set‑and‑forget” guardian.
- OCBC Blue Chip Investment Plan – Stock picks that keep the drama at bay.
- POEMS Share Builders Plan – Think of it as a financially delicious cake you bake for the future.
- Saxo Regular Savings Plan – High‑tech simplicity for the modern saver.
Stick with us as we break each one down, sprinkle in a touch of humor, and help you decide which plan fits your style. Ready to make those coins work hard?
1. DBS Regular Savings Plan
DBS Invest‑Saver: Investing Made Easy and Affordable
What It Is
With the DBS Invest‑Saver plan, you can start investing in ETFs and unit trusts with a minimum of just $100 per month. The best part? All your dividends go straight into your existing DBS or POSB account, so you don’t have to create a whole new account. Just hit 18 and you’re good to go.
The ETF Line‑up
- Nikko AM Singapore STI ETF – tracks Singapore equities
- ABF Singapore Bond Index Fund – tracks SGD bonds
- Nikko AM SGD Investment Grade Corporate Bond ETF – tracks SGD corporate bonds
- Nikko AM–StraitsTrading Asia ex Japan REIT ETF – tracks Asian REITs
Keep an Eye on the Fees
Every plan has its hidden costs, and DBS Invest‑Saver is no exception. The transaction fees will eat into your gains:
- Bonds: 0.50% per trade
- Equities & REITs: 0.82% per trade
Putting it into perspective, if you invest $100 a month, you’ll see a max of $0.82 a month – which adds up to about $9.84 per year in fees. So while the plan is convenient, be mindful of how the fees might clip your returns over time.
2. OCBC Regular Savings Plan
Let’s Talk About OCBC Blue Chip Investment Plan
Got a sweet spot for staying inside your bank’s universe? OCBC’s Blue Chip Investment Plan is the go‑to. Jump in once you’re 18, or if you’re still a junior, co‑open an account with a parent or guardian – no hassle, no fuss.
The Easy‑Peasy Regular Savings
- Drop as little as $100 a month into a 30‑stock (or ETF) bundle.
- You earn dividends (if any) straight into your OCBC pocket.
- Invest in top Singapore names like DBS, OCBC, Singtel, and Starhub.
- Also consider these ETFs:
- Lion‑OCBC Securities Hang Seng Tech ETF
- Lion OCBC Securities Singapore Low Carbon ETF
- Lion OCBC Securities China Leaders ETF
- Lion‑Phillip S‑REIT ETF
- Nikko AM SGD Investment Grade Corporate Bond ETF
- Nikko AM Singapore STI ETF
- Nikko AM ICBCSG China Bond ETF
Green Financing? Absolutely!
If you’ve been sipping the Singapore Green Plan 2030 vibes, the Lion OCBC Securities Singapore Low Carbon ETF could be your winning shot. The gov’s green checklist is high‑on‑the‑list, so a low‑carbon play might just tick your boxes.
Fees That Make Your Wallet Smile
- Under 30, invest up to $500 a month, and enjoy a starter rate of 0.88% per txn on a $100 pedlar. That’s $0.88 per $100, or $10.56 a year.
- Else, choose the higher of 0.3% or $5 per counter. Above 30, the higher the monthly amount, the better you’ll feel about those fees.
Bottom line: If you’re comfy with OCBC’s ecosystem, let the Blue Chip plan do the heavy lifting. Spread a few dollars a month, stash a solid mix of stocks & ETFs, and let the dividends roll in. It’s a smooth ride for both the newbies and the seasoned investors. Happy investing!
3. POEMS Regular Savings Plan
POEMS Share Builders Plan: A Casual Take on Your Next Savings Adventure
Imagine dropping just $100 a month into a portfolio that feels more like your own personal fortune‑builder than a boring savings account. That’s the vibe of the POEMS Share Builders Plan — it rolls cash straight into your Philip Investment Account via a simple GIRO autopay, so you’re not left wondering where your hard‑earned money’s going.
What’s in the Box?
- Over 50 ETFs and stocks to juggle with. Think major players like:
- DBS
- OCBC
- Genting Singapore
- Keppel Corporation
- Sembcorp Industries
- ETFs that’re more diverse than your usual options:
- SPDR Straits Times Index ETF
- ABF Singapore Bond Index
- Lion‑OCBC Securities Hang Seng Tech ETF
- Real‑estate lovers can snag REITs like:
- Frasers Centrepoint Trust
- MapleTree Commercial Trust
Why It’s Different from the Big Banks
DBS and OCBC let you dip your earnings straight into your regular bank account. POEMS, however, wants you to keep everything in a separate Philip Investment Account—a safe playground that keeps your investments tidy.
Sweet Bonuses
- You can reinvest dividends automatically. That’s a win for younger investors who don’t need the cash now but want the growth to keep rolling.
Heads‑Up: The Price Tag
- It isn’t the cheapest option out there. The plan pulls a $6 fee for one or two “counters” (transactions) and bumps up to $10 when you exceed three.
- That means it’s best suited if you’re looking to throw more money into your pot each month—otherwise, the fees might bite a little.
All in all, the POEMS Share Builders Plan is great for those who want a broader range of stocks and ETFs under one roof, appreciate the power of reinvested dividends, and are willing to pay a bit more for a richer growth playground.
4. FSMOne Regular Savings Plan
FSMOne’s Massive Regular Savings Plan: 88 ETFs for the Budget‑Smart Investor
Looking for a one‑stop shop that gives you a taste of both the big global markets and the juicy niche pieces? FSMOne’s Regular Savings Plan does just that—offering a whopping 88 ETFs across the Singapore Exchange, Hong Kong, and the United States. It’s the biggest spread you’ll find on any of the plans in our roundup.
What’s Inside the Vault?
- Standard staples for the global index crowd
- Also you’ll find the Premia Dow Jones EM ASEAN Titans 100 ETF, which is all about the rising stars in Southeast Asia.
- And there’s the ARK Next Generation Internet ETF—so you can tap into the digital and tech space without having to crunch fancy numbers.
Getting Started Can Be Overwhelming…
With so many choices, newbies may feel like they’re stepping into a maze. But if you’re on the lookout for a solid plan that gives you a broad exposure without breaking the bank, FSMOne is your go‑to.
Low Minimums, Low Fees
Whether you’re a lead investor or just scraping together a lean portfolio, you can start with $50 a month. That’s pretty sweet for those tight budgets.
Customer Cost:
- Commission: 0.08%
- Minimum Order: 1 SGD, 5 HKD, or 1 USD — whichever is the highest of those.
Tune It Up for Better Value
Because of that minimum order charge, you’re wise to swing a few hundred dollars per trade. That way the fees won’t eat up a significant portion of what you’re investing.
In short, FSMOne’s plan delivers a broad web of options while keeping costs low and the entry barrier gentle enough that most people can jump in—one step at a time.
5. Saxo Regular Savings Plan
Welcome to Saxo Markets’ RSP – Your Portfolio Playground
Choose the Portfolio that Fits Your Mood
- Defensive – Low risk, high “feel-good” factor. All about bonds and staying safe.
- Moderate – Middle ground. Gently balances growth without losing sleep over losses.
- Aggressive – For those who want a thrilling ride. Think stocks, high potential, high risk.
- Dynamic Growth: Asian Perspective – If you fancy the fast‑pacen, emerging market scene.
Why Pick a Ready‑Made Portfolio?
Just like most robo‑advisors, Saxo’s Resource‑Sharing Portfolio (RSP) lets you invest straight into curated mixes of ETFs. No need to lift a finger picking stocks or doing your own market science.
Getting Started – Minimums, Contributions, Fees
- Minimum deposit: $2,000 – that’s the entry fee for this adventure.
- Regular contributions: Start with $100 a week or month. Keep the pattern steady.
- Service fee: Between 0.25 % and 0.75 %. That means you’ll pay roughly $0.25–$0.75 a month on a $100 monthly investment, or $3–$9 a year if you keep the pace.
What Makes This Plan Stand Out?
If you’re tired of the endless scroll through single stocks, pick up a handful of ETFs, and still feel uncertain, Saxo’s approach simply hands you a “bundle of joy.” Each portfolio is managed by experts from BlackRock and Lion Global, so you’re not left to guess what works.
Quick Takeaway
Deposit $2,000, choose a tone that fits your risk appetite, contribute at least $100 on a regular basis, and leave the heavy lifting to the pros. With a tiny monthly fee, you’ll have a polished, diversified portfolio that can make your money feel a bit more… well, fun.
So, which regular savings plan should you use?
Investor’s Quick Pick: Which One’s For You?
Need a hassle‑free way to grow your dough?
Let’s break down the top options so you can decide which plan suits your style.
1. DBS Invest‑Saver & OCBC Blue Chip – The Convenience Champs
- No extra account setup – dividends roll straight into your main wallet.
- All in one place – easier to track, easier to relax.
2. DBS Invest‑Saver (for the <30 Crowd) – Budget‑Friendly & Limited
- Cost‑effective for younger investors – low fees means more money stays in your pocket.
- Limited ETF & stock options – just enough for a beginner but not so many to get overwhelmed.
3. FSMOne Regular Savings Plan – The Global Index Guru
- Best selection of worldwide ETFs – you’ll love the variety!
- Diversify from day one – spreads risk across the globe.
4. Saxo Market’s Profession‑Managed Portfolios – For the “Hands‑Off” Kenny
- No picking stocks or ETFs yourself – a pro curates your portfolio.
- Effectively “settle back and watch” – compare with Singapore’s robo‑advisors if that’s your vibe.
So, what’s your play? Need zero hassle? Go with DBS or OCBC. Want budget savings that still offer a decent range? DBS under 30. Love picking your own global game‑plan? FSMOne. Prefer a hand‑crafted approach without the effort? Sassop in.
Case study: Investing $500/month with a regular savings plan
Investing With a Regular Savings Plan: A Case Study
Meet Mr Muhammad Ali – a 30‑year‑old, monthly paycheck of $3,000, and a handy $500 stash ready to grow.
What’s the deal with regular savings plans?
Below is a quick snapshot of three of the most popular plans that offer ETF‑only options. No code or fancy maths – just the numbers that matter.
DBS Invest‑Saver
- Fees: 0.5%–0.82% per annum
- ETF options: 4 varieties
Thought this one looks a bit pricey? It’s just a standard “kick‑start” plan, perfect for newcomers who want a small, manageable load.
OCBC Blue Chip Investment Plan
- Fees: 0.88% if below 30; 0.30% (min $5) afterward
- ETF & stocks: 15 tailored sets
Because you’re 30, the reduced rate kicks in. Think of this as a “blue‑chip” taste for the more established player.
POEMS Share Builders Plan
- Fees: $6 for up to two counters, $10 for three or more
- ETF & stocks: 50+ selections
It’s a big play – you pay a bit for the extra breadth. And if you prefer to diversify, this is your playground.
FSMOne Regular Savings Plan
- Fees: 0.08% with a minimum of $1 (or US$1HKD5)
- ETF options: 88 worldwide picks
Low‑fee, high‑choice. The best for investors who love variety without the extra cost.
Saxo Regular Savings Plan
- Fees: Free to open, but 0.25%–0.75% annual service charge
- ETF portfolios: 4 managed bundles
Free to start, but the service charge is like the maintenance fee of a fancy gadget—you still pay for the extra features.
What to Pick?
- Low fees + many options → FSMOne
- Broad selection + moderate fees → POEMS
- Balanced, beginner‑friendly → DBS Invest‑Saver
- Age‑based discount + decent range → OCBC
- Managed portfolios with zero opening fees → Saxo
Mr Ali could consider putting the $500 each month into two or three of these plans to spread risk. Remember, the goal is to grow that $500, not to pay too much for antsy out‑of‑bargain.
1. DBS Regular Savings Plan
DBS Invest‑Saver Plan: A Simple Path to Growing Your Money
Have you ever dreamed of investing in ETFs or unit trusts, but thought it was too complicated? DBS Invest‑Saver makes that dream a reality, even if you’re just starting out. With a $100 monthly contribution, you can jump straight into a range of Singapore‑focused ETFs, all while keeping your earnings deposited into your existing DBS or POSB account.
Key Features at a Glance
- Start Strong at 18 – Age 18 is the minimum to enroll, so you can begin as you step into adulthood.
- Pay No Extra Account Fees – Your dividends roll right into your existing account; no new account set‑up required.
- Easy Monthly Investment – Just a simple $100 per month.
What ETFs are on the Menu?
- Nikko AM Singapore STI ETF – Tracks the performance of Singapore’s top companies.
- ABF Singapore Bond Index Fund – Focuses on local SGD bonds.
- Nikko AM SGD Investment Grade Corporate Bond ETF – Invests in solid SGD corporate bonds.
- Nikko AM‑StraitsTrading Asia ex Japan REIT ETF – Gives exposure to Asian real estate investment trusts.
Keep an Eye on the Hidden Costs
Every trade carries a small fee that can eat into your returns over time. For the DBS Invest‑Saver plan you’ll encounter:
- Bond ETFs: 0.50 % per transaction.
- Equity and REIT ETFs: 0.82 % per transaction.
If you stick to the standard $100 monthly investment, the overhead might look like this:
- Up to $0.82 in fees each month.
- Approximately $9.84 rolled up across a whole year.
That’s a modest cost for the convenience and diversification the plan offers.
Bottom Line
DBS Invest‑Saver is a great entry point for young investors. It’s hassle‑free, with all the dividends funneled back into your main account, and the ETF selection covers stocks, bonds, and real estate—letting you build a balanced portfolio from the get‑go. Just remember that the small transaction fees are part of the game and will gradually be offset by the growth of your investments.
2. OCBC Regular Savings Plan
Ready to Grow Your Green Wallet?
Say hello to the OCBC Blue Chip Investment Plan – the banking‑friendly way to get your hands on a solid mix of Singapore’s best stocks and ETFs without stepping outside the bank’s playground.
Who Can Join?
- Adults (18+): Sign up on your own.
- Teenagers (under 18): Open a joint account with a parent or guardian.
How It Works
The plan’s a regular savings scheme that lets you throw away as little as S$100 a month. In return, you’ll build a portfolio that can hold up to 30 different stocks or ETFs – no need to pick ‘em all yourself!
Top Pick Your Portfolio
Let’s start with the big‑name Straits Times Index (STI) stocks:
- DBS
- OCBC
- Singtel
- Starhub
And here’s a list of LPH ETFs to spice things up:
- Lion‑OCBC Securities Hang Seng Tech ETF
- Lion OCBC Securities Singapore Low Carbon ETF
- Lion OCBC Securities China Leaders ETF
- Lion‑Phillip S‑REIT ETF
- Nikko AM SGD Investment Grade Corporate Bond ETF
- Nikko AM Singapore STI ETF
- Nikko AM ICBCSG China Bond ETF
If you’ve been keeping up with the Singapore Green Plan 2030, the low‑carbon ETF is a super‑wise move – you plant a green future and watch your money grow!
Who Gets a Deal?
Under 30? You’re in the “Young Money” zone, getting preferential fees:
- 0.88% per transaction for a S$100 monthly installment.
- That’s just S$0.88 per month, or a cozy 12‑month total of S$10.56.
Over 30? The minimum fee kick‑starts higher monthly amounts. The standard charge is 0.3% (or S$5 per counter, whichever tops the other). So, if you’re older, the more you invest, the more you’re rewarded.
Bottom Line
OCBC’s Blue Chip Investment Plan is a handy, bank‑centric route to ride the Singapore market’s wave. It gives both the juniors and the seasoned investors a chance to build a diversified portfolio with a little gentle dose of sustainability. The catch? Younger folks win on fees, older folks have to feed a bigger pile to break even. But that’s the tidy piece of the OCBC puzzle – simple, friendly, and ready to help you invest in the future you wish to see.
3. POEMS Regular Savings Plan
POEMS Share Builders Plan: The Low‑Cost, High‑Flexibility Investment Option
If you’re looking to dip into the market without breaking the bank, the POEMS Share Builders Plan is worth your attention. It lets you start investing with just $100 a month—and it’s all handled automatically via GIRO, so you won’t even notice the money leaving your pocket.
Why it’s a Sweet Deal
- Over 50 different ETFs and individual stocks are at your fingertips.
- Stock picks that flash some house names: DBS, OCBC, Genting Singapore, Keppel, and Sembcorp Industries.
- ETF variety beats the usual DBS/OCBC offerings—think SPDR Straits Times Index ETF, ABF Singapore Bond Index, and Lion‑OCBC Securities Hang Seng Tech ETF.
- Real‑estate lovers: add some REITs like Frasers Centrepoint Trust or MapleTree Commercial Trust into your mix.
- Great for younger investors who want to grow their portfolio rather than cash out the dividends—automatic dividend reinvestment is built in.
Got a Philip Investment Account?
Unlike DBS and OCBC’s savings plans that push returns straight into your bank account, you must open a dedicated Philip Investment Account with POEMS. Think of it as a separate, more focused money‑bank that’s tailored for market play.
Cost: The Ninja Move
On the downside, this plan isn’t the cheapest. You’ll pay:
- $6 for managing one or two transaction counters.
- $10 when using three or more counters.
That makes it the most expensive option on our list—but the extra fee can be justified if you’re putting a bigger amount into your portfolio each month.
Bottom Line
Consider the POEMS Share Builders Plan if you’re looking for a flexible, low‑entry monthly investment that gives you access to a wide range of market vehicles, with the bonus of dividend reinvestment. The catch? A separate Philip Investment Account and a fee structure that’s a bit pricier. Overall, it’s a smart pick for those willing to invest more each month and enjoy the growth potential of a broad stock and ETF selection.
4. FSMOne Regular Savings Plan
FSMOne’s Regular Savings Plan: Your Ticket to a World of ETFs
Sink your teeth into 88 ETFs that span Singapore’s SGX, Hong Kong’s HKEX and the US markets. It’s the widest global ETF selection anyone can get with a single, simple plan.
It’s Not Just the Big Names
Beyond blue‑chip giants, the lineup has all the weird and wonderful side‑kicks:
- Premia Dow Jones EM ASEAN Titans 100 ETF – charts the growth of emerging Southeast Asian economies.
- ARK Next Generation Internet ETF – dives into tech and digital wildcards.
- And a slew of other niche funds that’ll make your portfolio feel like a truly global adventure.
Who Shouldn’t Get Lost?
If you’re brand new to investing, the sheer breadth can feel like stepping into a supermarket overrun with choices. Take a breath. It’s all there to choose from later.
Perfect for Then‑and‑Now Investors
Buyers who keep an eye on the budget but still want serious exposure to a global spread will find this plan a sweet spot. Minimum monthly investment: just $50.
Cost Breakdown
- Buying fee: 0.08% per trade.
- Minimum order requirement: the higher of 1 SGD, 5 HKD, or 1 USD. (A cost‑wise twist to make small buys a bit pricey.)
- Recommendation: Commit a few hundred dollars each time to keep the fee just a tiny fraction of your purchase.
Bottom Line
FSMOne’s Regular Savings Plan is a golden ticket for those ready to dive into a global ETF buffet without breaking the bank. For the safe‑striding beginner—or the savvy budget‑holder—this plan is great to test the waters and then, as you grow, expand your horizons.
5. Saxo Regular Savings Plan
Saxo Markets Drops a Portfolio‑Buster That Makes Your Wallet Smile
Here’s the scoop: Saxo is rolling out a brand‑new “RSP” – a robo‑advisor that lets you slide into four tidy, professionally‑managed ETF pools from BlackRock and Lion Global. No more hunting down individual funds or cracking your head over the market’s moves.
Choose Your Style, Grab Your Funds
- Defensive – A low‑risk mix that’s heavy on bonds.
- Moderate – Mid‑risk, balances growth opportunities with a safety net.
- Aggressive – High‑risk, all‑stock playground for the bold.
- Dynamic Growth: Asian Perspective – High‑risk, gives you a taste of Asia and emerging markets.
Getting Started: Minimums Made Simple
Drop a minimum of $2,000 to open your account. After that, keep the momentum going with weekly or monthly injections – each one at a minimum of $100. Think of it as a steady, cost‑effective “auto‑save” for your future.
Fees – Not Your Old‑School Investment Tax
The service fee runs between 0.25% and 0.75%. That equates to roughly $0.25‑$0.75 per month on a $100 monthly contribution, or $3‑$9 a year. It’s tiny compared to traditional brokerage costs – and you’re getting a full-fledge ETF basket in return.
In short,‑Saxo’s RSP lets you jump into ready‑made portfolios with ease, offering a minimal touch‑and‑go mechanism for adventurers looking to grow their money without the headache of picking piecemeal ETFs. Your wallet will thank you!
So, which regular savings plan should you use?
Finding the Perfect Investment Plan—No Stress, No Complication
*Convenience Wins the Day
*– Easy peasy dividends—your money stays in the same account, no wayward paperwork.
– The same “one‑stop shop” style. Perfect for those who want to sit back and watch their returns roll in.
Cost‑Savvy for the Under‑30 Crowd
* – Younger investors get the best bang for their buck.
– Heads up: the range of ETFs and stocks isn’t as massive, but you’ll save a few bucks.
Want a World‑Wide Portfolio?
* – Top pick for global indices lovers.
– If you’re hunting for a solid spread of ETFs worldwide, this is your ticket.
Fancy a Hand‑Held Portfolio?
* – Think of it as a “personal concierge” for investments.
– They handcraft professionally‑managed portfolios instead of offering a menu of stocks and ETFs.
– Compare it to the robo‑advisors in Singapore—some may swear by the human touch, some may love the algorithm.
Bottom Line
*Pick what feels right for your wallet and your peace of mind!
Case study: investing $500/month with a regular savings plan
Meet Mr. Muhammad Ali – 30‑Year‑Old Investor on a Budget
Ali pulls in roughly $3,000 a month and has a neat $500 earmarked for investing. But how much will he have to part with for the monthly fees? Let’s break it down.
Investment Savings Plans & Their Monthly Fees
- Saxo Regular Savings Plan: $1.25 – $3.75
- FSMOne Regular Savings Plan: $1.35
- DBS Invest‑Saver (Bonds): $2.50
- DBS Invest‑Saver (Equities): $4.10
- OCBC Blue Chip Investment Plan: $5
- POEMS (1 to 2 share counts): $6
- POEMS (3 or more share counts): $10
Which Plan is the Cheapest?
It’s simple: FSMOne’s plan is the sweet spot—just $1.35 a month. Great for a tight budget. But with 88 different ETFs to choose from, it can feel like a beginner’s club of options—like trying to pick a favorite pizza topping when there are 200 choices!
If Ali Wants Something More “Home‑Country” Friendly
The DBS Invest‑Saver keeps the fees modest too, ranging from $2.50 to $4.10. The catch? It only offers four local ETFs, which might feel small once Ali starts craving a bigger stock variety.
Going Global – The Saxo Plan
For those who want a worldwide ETF spread without limiting themselves to Singapore, the Saxo Regular Savings Plan is a solid choice—costing just between $1.25 and $3.75 per month. It’s a middle‑ground option that balances price and global exposure.
Later‑Stage Plans for the “Free‑Spending” Phase
The OCBC Blue Chip Investment Plan and POEMS plans are pricier, sitting at $5, $6, or $10 per month. Ali might feel comfortable skipping those until his paycheck’s bigger or his investment appetite grows.
Bottom line? Ali’s got a solid starter cash‑flow, and choosing a plan that’s affordable yet gives room to learn is the key. Let’s keep the fees low, the options digestible, and maybe add a sprinkle of humor to keep the stress level down.
What about other banks’ regular savings plans?
When Your Bills Are as Complex as Your Investment Strategy
Citibank, Standard Chartered and UOB give you a regular savings plan, but a catch: you can only dip into unit trusts. If you’re wondering why stop at one type of trust, this quick guide will sort it out.
What’s a Unit Trust in Plain English?
A unit trust (aka a mutual fund) is like a versatile salad bowl. It holds a mix of assets—stocks, bonds, the whole shebang—so you’re not putting all your eggs in one basket. Pay the great deal to a professional manager who’s constantly tweaking the mix. Think of them as the culinary expert of the marketplace.
How Do ETFs Compare?
ETFs are the ultimate “set it and forget it” buffet. Once you buy in, the portfolio is managed passively. The mix automatically follows the ETF’s recipe—no need to add or remove ingredients yourself. Fees? Yes, but they’re often a fraction of the unit trust price.
Which One Is Right for You?
- Beginners & Long‑term Investors – ETFs win. They’re cheaper, honest, and you can ignore the day‑to‑day grind.
- High‑Risk Seekers & Tactical Players – Unit trusts might give you that extra edge if a pro can manoeuvre the market during rough patches.
- Every Other Scenario – Mix it up. Keep a portion in each; diversify like you would with your cereals.
Bottom Line
In a world of confusing finance jargon, think of unit trusts as the “chef” and ETFs as the “self‑service buffet.” Pick the one that fits your style—and maybe the one that keeps a lower price tag on your wallet.
Original source: MoneySmart
