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When Malaysia’s biggest pension fund starts buying more bread, both figuratively and literally, you pay attention. Back in 2019, Johor-based bakery business SDS Group Berhad went public at just 23 sen a share. Fast forward to today, and its stock has more than tripled. What’s even more interesting? The Employees Provident Fund (EPF) recently upped its stake from 3% to over 5%, officially becoming a substantial shareholder. Now, EPF investing in public companies isn’t news by itself. But this one made people stop scrolling. Why? Because SDS isn’t a flashy tech unicorn or a trendy IPO. It’s bread. Cakes. Buns. Swiss rolls. Everyday items you find at petrol stations and convenience stores — the unglamorous staples of Malaysian life. And yet, EPF, which manages over RM1 trillion, clearly sees something worth betting on. What do they see that the rest of us might be missing? From Johor Bakery to Listed Company Let’s start from the beginning. SDS began in 1987 with two brothers, Tan Kim Seng and Tan Kim Chai, baking in a small shop in Masai, Johor. No venture capital, no big machines, just determination and ovens. Over time, that tiny family bakery grew into SDS Group Berhad, now one of the most recognisable bakery names in southern Malaysia. If you’ve lived in Johor Bahru, you’ve probably had an SDS birthday cake or grabbed buns from one of their cafés. They expanded quietly — over 30 outlets in Johor and around ten more in the Klang Valley. Affordable, local, family-friendly. But here’s the twist: most Malaysians only see half the business. While SDS cafés make up the visible, retail-friendly side, their real engine lies in wholesale. Today, over 60% of SDS’s revenue  comes from this segment, supplying breads, buns, and cakes across the nation under two major brands: Top Baker  and Daily’s. Top Baker  serves traditional mom-and-pop sundry shops. Daily’s  supplies modern outlets like supermarkets, petrol marts, and convenience stores. Behind the scenes, SDS has quietly built a nationwide logistics machine, with distribution depots across Peninsular Malaysia and a fleet of hundreds of delivery trucks that move before dawn. That means every time you grab a bun from a petrol station or a Swiss roll from a supermarket rack, there’s a good chance it came from SDS. This scale, being able to produce and distribute in volume, gives SDS the kind of operational efficiency and margin control that smaller bakeries simply can’t match. The Mamee Connection: A Smart Expansion Just when people thought SDS was content with bread and buns, the company made a surprising move. In August 2025, SDS announced it was acquiring the bakery division of Mamee-Double Decker . Yes, the same brand famous for Mamee Monster noodles and Double Decker snacks. For RM28 million, SDS is taking over Mamee’s Plentong bakery plant  in Johor — including machinery, production lines, and the rights to produce London Roll  and Tora  Swiss rolls. These nostalgic products are cheap, shelf-stable, and everywhere. The genius? SDS can now plug them straight into its existing wholesale network. Every truck delivering bread can now carry Swiss rolls too. It's the same routes, but now with higher volume and better margins. Better yet, Swiss rolls last longer than fresh bread. That opens the door to exports , a potential new chapter for a company that’s so far been Johor-centric. SDS isn’t just baking anymore. They’re scaling nostalgia, and EPF seems to think that’s brilliant business. Why EPF Is Buying Bread So why would a trillion-ringgit institution buy into something as “boring” as buns? Because boring can be beautiful  — especially when the economy slows down. More than 60% of SDS’s revenue comes from products sold through supermarkets, hypermarkets, petrol marts, and convenience stores. These are not luxury goods but everyday staples, bought by the very people who make up Malaysia’s mass market. When times get tough, people don’t stop eating bread. They just skip the fancy cafés. Economists call this the “trade-down effect.”  Instead of RM30 brunches, families opt for RM2 buns and RM5 cakes. And the timing fits. Global growth  is slowing — the World Bank expects it to hover in the low 2%  range in 2025, one of the weakest  since 2008. Malaysia’s economy  is expected to moderate to around 4% , with exports softening and households feeling the pinch from high debt levels. That’s when defensive, consumer-staple companies like SDS shine. Their demand doesn’t collapse. It stabilises  or even grows . And with the Mamee plant’s longer-shelf-life products, SDS can ride through tough times with even more resilience. When you connect the dots of a slowing economy, steady demand, and scalable logistics, it’s clear why EPF is topping up on SDS. They’re not chasing hype. They’re chasing stability . The Numbers Behind the Dough Let’s talk returns. Back in 2020, SDS made around RM192 million  in revenue but only RM4 million  in profit — margins of just 2%. Fast forward to 2025, and SDS is pulling in RM346 million  in revenue and over RM33 million  in profit. That’s an eight-fold jump  in profit on less than double the sales. Margins now sit near 10%, and here’s the kicker: they achieved this without piling on debt or opening dozens of new stores. Instead, SDS learned to optimise, to squeeze more value  out of what they already had, whether it was their factories, distribution lines, or trucks. That’s what high Return on Capital Employed (ROCE)  looks like. A company turning every invested ringgit into meaningful returns. It’s the kind of metric big investors like EPF love. And the cash flow backs it up. SDS generated over RM50 million in operating cash flow  in FY2025, not exactly pocket change. This financial discipline means SDS can weather cost spikes, invest when others hesitate, and still pay dividends. In a market obsessed with hype, that’s a quiet kind of powerful. The Bigger Picture: Boring Is the New Brilliant So what’s the takeaway here? SDS might not make headlines with futuristic tech or viral marketing, but they’ve built a business that thrives on consistency, efficiency, and everyday consumption. They sell what Malaysians actually buy, and they do it profitably and sustainably. EPF’s latest move is just another vote of confidence in their favour. When the economy cools, flashy fades quickly. Bread (both the edible and spendable type) stays. SDS is proof that sometimes, the smartest investment isn’t the loudest — it’s the one that smells faintly of freshly baked buns. Prefer to watch a video instead of reading this? Check it out here! Disclaimer: This is not investment advice. All content is for education and entertainment purposes only . Consult a financial adviser before making investment decisions. (And do your own research too, it definitely helps!)

Almost every other week it feels like there’s a new investment app in the market. And each time, they’ll be marketed as the “best trading app” or the “cheapest brokerage app”. But more often than not, they end up not  being what they say they are. UPDATED (8 Oct 2025): Guess what? We launched our own budgeting app. Even better, a personal assistant on all your money matters, right inside your WhatsApp. It’s FREE - register here . This time, trust me when I say moomoo  is the only  investment platform you’ll need to trade US and Malaysia stocks. Whether you’re a beginner investor or a seasoned one, this app offers a blend of advanced features, user-friendly design, and invaluable educational resources that cater to the needs of every investor. A Comprehensive Moomoo Malaysia Review [2025] What is Moomoo? Moomoo  is the latest investment platform to arrive on Malaysia’s shores.  Here’s their backstory: Founded in 2018 in California, moomoo quickly set a benchmark for solving investor's challenges with its pro-level trading services and data . By 2021, it made a notable entry into Singapore, becoming a top choice for one in every four Singaporeans .  In 2022, moomoo ventured into Australia, introducing intelligent-assisted technology in investment analysis  and winning four awards from Wemoney. The following year, it expanded its innovative platform to Malaysia and Japan, offering comprehensive market information, investor education, and interactive community features .  Additionally, moomoo aimed to revolutionise the Canadian investment scene by providing in-depth market insights and educational tools  to help investors navigate and seize opportunities. What Can You Trade With Moomoo Malaysia? You will be able to trade US and Malaysian stocks including ETFs, warrants, and REITs  with this single platform.  There’s also the option to trade Shariah-compliant stocks  as well as to trade with margin, better known as margin trading . Is Moomoo Safe and Licensed In Malaysia? Now you might be asking, all of their features sound great but is Moomoo legal in Malaysia? The answer is, YES!   Futu Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.  (" Moomoo MY ") is a Capital Markets Services License holder and is regulated by the Securities Commission Malaysia  (SC). Additionally, it is also a  Capital Market Compensation (CMC) Fund Protected  whereby an eligible individual investor may claim up to RM100,000 on eligible Malaysia securities/related assets should an unlikely event occur. What Are Moomoo’s Fees? Moomoo Malaysia’s pricing and fees can be broken down into three categories. 1. Trading Fees For the first six months  since account opening, No commission Platform Fees To trade US stocks: USD 0.99/order To trade Malaysia/Bursa stocks: RM3/order So for example, if you were to invest in Stock ABC, whether for RM100 or RM10,000, you’ll only be charged USD 0.99 for US Stocks or RM3 for Bursa Stocks! Other fees 2. M argin Rate Moomoo Malaysia’s margin rate is among the lowest in comparison to other brokerages at a rate of 6.8% . 3. Other Services No fees are charged for other services like: Account Opening Fund Deposit in MYR Fund Withdrawal in MYR Inactive Account Transfer Stock in Here's how you can earn Nvidia shares with moomoo! Use our code "MTV40" for an additional RM40! Account Opening Benefits: Enjoy 180 days of commission-free trades  across the US, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, and China-A stock markets – that’s half a year with no trading fees! 5% Guaranteed Return with Cash Plus for 30 days  up to RM10,000. Exclusive Cash Rewards for Deposits Deposit RM1,000 or more  and get RM140 in rewards: RM50 cash coupon RM25 x 2 stock cash coupons RM20 x 2 exclusive stock cash coupons (use our code: MTV40 ) Deposit RM5,000 or more  to claim RM 200 Nvidia Share  as a reward. Deposit RM10,000 or more  to claim RM 500 Nvidia Share  as a reward. Deposit RM30,000 or more  and make 3 buy trades  to receive claim RM 1,000 Nvidia Share*! * Terms and conditions apply. How to Get Our Exclusive Rewards? Before we explore the app's features, for being our loyal supporter, we want to give you an exclusive reward  when you make your first deposit via moomoo 's app. Follow the simple steps below to earn our Exclusive Reward of a RM40 cash voucher  when you deposit at least RM1,000 for the first time : Step 1: Search for "Exclusive Deposit" at the top right corner before making your first deposit Step 2: Click in "Join Now" to find the "Deposit" page Step 3: At the bottom of the "Deposit" page, find "Exclusive code (optional)" and key in our promo code: MTV40 What Features Do Moomoo Have? I’ve been raving about moomoo  a lot in this article and I genuinely think it deserves the hype because it is truly an all-in-one super app. In my years of investing, I’ve rarely come across an investment platform that offers as many features as moomoo does. These features (that I’ll get into later) are both easy to navigate yet comprehensive enough for first-time investors and even seasoned ones. Moomoo Features 1: Heat Map The heat map is a visual tool used to display the performance of different market sectors  in a clear and intuitive manner.  As you can see in the picture above, the colour of each sector indicates its gains or losses, with the intensity of the colour reflecting the strength of the price movement. This means that larger sectors represent larger market caps, and the colour intensity provides immediate insight into sector performance. Then, if you click on each sector, you’ll be able to see a chart of how the overall sector is doing, key stocks that contribute to the market movement of the sector, comments as well as news from said sector. This tool comes in handy when you are trying to quickly grasp the overall market trends  and identify which sectors or stocks are outperforming or underperforming . You’ll also be able to customise your settings such as sorting by market cap, volume, or turnover, and adjusting the number of sectors displayed, allowing for a tailored analysis that matches your investment strategy. Moomoo Features 2: Market Monitor The market monitor is a real-time tool designed to help you keep track of unusual activities across all stocks in the markets.  The tool identifies and alerts you to unusual trading volumes and price movements, leveraging filters like market region, price range, and market cap range to tailor the monitoring process to your specific interests or investment strategies. By using this feature, you’ll be able to stay ahead of market movements  by tracking unusual stock activities in real-time. For instance, by identifying stocks with unusual trading volumes and price changes, you might be able to spot potential opportunities or risks early. So, whether you’re looking to capitalize on short-term market fluctuations or want to understand broader market trends, this tool will prove to be very valuable. Moomoo Features 3: Industrial Chain The industrial chain feature provides a comprehensive overview of the various stages, companies, and associated stocks within specific industries , aiding in the detailed analysis of the production and distribution processes.  This tool offers insights into the upstream, midstream, and downstream sectors, alongside a streamlined process for informed stock selection by categorizing stocks based on their industry segment . For instance, in the electric vehicle (EV) sector, it highlights the complete chain from raw material suppliers to manufacturers like Tesla , which dominates battery pack production. This feature not only aids in identifying investment opportunities and risks, especially in scenarios like fluctuating raw material costs but also promotes strategic portfolio diversification  by encouraging investments across different parts of the industrial chain. Moomoo Features 4: Institutional Tracker The institutional tracker is a tool designed to monitor and display the investment activities of established institutional investors .  This feature provides you with  insights into the quarterly position reports of these institutions , showcasing data such as the market value of holdings, changes in holdings, the number of stocks held, and changes in the number of stocks held. It offers a comprehensive overview,  industry distribution of holdings , and a detailed list of holdings for each institution , allowing you to discern the investing logic, trends, and strategies of these major players in the market. The information you’ll get from this tool, helps you understand the strategic moves of institutional investors  and can guide you in aligning your investment strategies with market trends, identifying potential investment opportunities, and avoiding sectors or stocks that are being heavily sold off. Moreover, it offers  clues about market sentiment and potential future movements , enabling more strategic portfolio management. Moomoo Features 5: Investment Themes Just as the name suggests, the investment themes feature offers a curated insight into specific industries, interests, or institutions , providing you with a comprehensive overview that includes charts, company lists, shared comments, and relevant news related to the chosen theme. This tool is particularly useful for investors who are just starting out, as it simplifies the complex world of investing into more digestible, themed segments . New investors can benefit from the structured approach to understanding market dynamics, identifying trends within specific industries or interests, and gaining insights from the shared experiences and strategies of more seasoned investors. Moomoo Features 6: Trend Projection The trend projection tool is designed to enhance the efficiency of analyzing candlestick charts by enabling you to quickly find stocks with candlestick patterns similar to a target stock  and makes it easier to predict what might happen next with the stock you're interested in.  The way it works is that by comparing the patterns and trends of two candlestick charts through a specific algorithm, the tool calculates their similarity and offers forecasts on the future trend of the target stock based on the probability distribution obtained from historical trends of other stocks with similar patterns. This provides a solid foundation for speculating on future stock movements (if that’s what you’re into), making it a valuable tool for those looking to stay ahead in fast-moving markets. Usually, in order to get the information this tool offers, it takes a lot of time, manual labour and advanced knowledge of technical analysis. So, although this feature may be a bit of a stretch for beginner investors to use, it’s definitely one that seasoned investors who rely heavily on technical analysis will appreciate. Moomoo Features 7: In-Depth Insights Into A Company So far, I’ve been explaining some of the key tools that moomoo offer however, there’s an overarching feature that I’ve yet to mention – company analysis . Typically, when you’re using an investment platform, you’ll be able to get some  information on the specific company you’re planning to invest in like its share price movement and capital flow. However, Moomoo’s company analysis goes way beyond that. You’ll be able to get an in-depth insight into a company including the company’s valuation, market distribution, revenue breakdown, income statement, cash flows, shareholders, and insider activity to name a few. Generally speaking, everything you can find on a company’s financial report, you’ll be able to find in Moomoo’s company analysis. Moomoo Features 8: Comments and News Section Similar to the company analysis, the comments and news section is also an overarching feature that can be used in addition to the six tools mentioned above. For the comments section, it sort of works like X (previously known as Twitter) whereby, moomoo users can share their opinion or investment strategies with other users. Here’s the catch, since any user can comment their thoughts, it might not be the best feature to use if you want to make an informed investment decision. Perhaps using it to get a better understanding of market sentiment would be smarter.  As for the news section, depending on how you come across it, it might provide you with news on a specific company, industry or even investment theme. And of course, the news sources are credible and reliable, mostly coming from new portals like Yahoo Finance , Wall Street Journal  and Bloomberg . Moomoo Features 9: Learn More About Investing I think a common obstacle when it comes to starting one’s investment journey is that people don’t know where to begin and there’s too much information out there that it can feel very overwhelming, very quickly. Knowing this, the moomoo app offers a tab where you can learn more about investing. There are articles on top-performing stocks, beginner guides and even courses on technical analysis and the overall economy. It’s really like Investment 101 lah! Moomoo Features 10: Paper Trade  Along that same note of learning more about investing, moomoo also offers a feature called Paper Trade. This feature allows you to engage in simulated market trading without risking actual money.  Think of it as a practical lesson in addition to the theoretical one. This tool uses real market data to enable new and experienced traders, to practice trading, test out investment strategies, and familiarise themselves with various trading scenarios . Through paper trading, you can track the performance of your hypothetical investments, see the potential outcomes, and learn from the experience without the financial consequences of real trading. It’s worth noting that while paper trading offers a safe environment to learn and experiment, the emotional and psychological pressures of real trading can differ  significantly. Therefore, while paper trading is an excellent way to build foundational knowledge and skills, transitioning to real trading should be approached with caution. Step-by-step Guide: Moomoo Malaysia Account Opening Usually, with an investment platform, it takes quite a while to open an account because there’s an endless number of questions you need to answer and fill in. But with Moomoo Malaysia , it takes less than 5 minutes. Here’s how you can do it. 1. Fill in your Personal Details Click here  and start filling out your personal details like your full name, gender, marital status, birthday and so on. 2. Verify your identification You’ll be required to upload a picture of your identification card (IC) for both front and back. And as usual, make sure it’s clear, and doesn’t have any glares. 3. Provide your Residential Address Fill in your address and confirm if it’s the same address you’re currently residing in; otherwise, include your residing address as well. 4. Fill in your Tax Information Most of the questions should already be answered based on your personal details so you’ll only need to fill in your Tax Identification Number (TIN). It’ll look something like this: IG 12345678912. 5. Provide other information Some of the information you’ll be asked to provide here includes your employment status and financial information like your annual income, total assets, investment objective and period. 6. Complete your eKYC, verify your phone number and agree to the Customer’s Declaration Carry out your electronic Know-Your-Customer (e-KYC) which personally took me less than 30 seconds to do. Then, verify your phone number with the TAC Moomoo sends you. Finally, agree to the Customer’s Declaration. In just six simple steps, your moomoo Malaysia account should be up and running within 1-3 business days. Moomoo Malaysia Review: My Honest Opinion  I've been using moomoo for nearly a year now, and honestly, I find myself consistently reaching for this trading app over the others I have on my phone. Let me explain why. Starting with its features, unlike many other investment platforms, moomoo offers an  extensive range of tools , and what's even better is that they're all available for free! Typically, other trading apps charge additional fees for more advanced features, but with moomoo, I’m glad that that's not the case. Personally, I’m a huge fan of the heat map feature because it offers a visual representation of the overall sector performance, allowing me to quickly identify trends. I also really like the institutional tracker as it is quite interesting to me to see the investment activities of major players in the market. Moreover, I commend moomoo's commitment to educating investors . Their "Learn" and "Paper Trade" sections are particularly helpful for both beginners and pros, offering articles, guides, and simulated trading experiences to hone your skills without risking real money. Plus, the sense of community  in the comments and news section is great for staying in the loop and sharing insights with fellow traders. Now, when it comes to the UI/UX of the app, if you've explored different investment platforms, you may have encountered some that aren't very user-friendly and can be quite confusing. However, my experience with moomoo has been the opposite. I find it incredibly intuitive and easy to navigate , allowing me to access its tools and features effortlessly. The layout is clean and well-organised , making it a breeze to find what I need without any unnecessary clutter.  Overall, my journey with moomoo has been pretty great over the past year. It definitely stands out as a top-notch investment platform, especially for those who appreciate a balance between advanced trading tools and educational support . So, whether you're a beginner looking to dip your toes into the world of investing or a seasoned trader searching for an all-in-one solution, Moomoo could very well be the super app you've been looking for. If this article was a little too lengthy for you, I also made a video reviewing the moomoo app. You can check it out here . Disclaimer This is not an investment advice. All content produced is solely for education and entertainment purposes only. Please consult your financial advisor before making any investment decision. All views expressed in the article are the independent opinions of the author, which are not necessarily shared by Futu Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. ("Moomoo Malaysia"). No content shall be considered financial advice or recommendation. Moomoo Malaysia links are included in this post, through which referrals are made and I may receive certain commissions. Please contact Moomoo Malaysia for more information. Subscribe to our financial newsletter  for the latest news, insights, and advice on personal finance, investing, and more. With every email, you’ll gather the confidence and knowledge to make informed decisions to achieve your financial goals.

Investing always sounds like something you need a huge capital to start. But what if we told you that RM1,000 is enough to kickstart your wealth-building journey? Yes, RM1,000 may not seem like much, but it’s a powerful amount to begin investing. It allows you to tap into various asset classes, harness the power of compounding, and—most importantly—develop the right money mindset. Here’s why it works and how you can start investing today. UPDATED (8 Oct 2025): Guess what? We launched our own budgeting app. Even better, a personal assistant on all your money matters, right inside your WhatsApp. It’s FREE - register here . Why RM1,000 Is the Perfect Starting Point Accessibility to Investment Options The biggest misconception about investing is that you need tens of thousands to get started. But the truth is, RM1,000 gives you access to various investment options : Fixed Deposits (FDs)  – A great low-risk option where you park your money for a set period and enjoy guaranteed returns . While returns may not be high, FDs provide stability and are a good way to preserve your capital while earning modest interest. The risk level of this investment is very low but the annual return is on average 3%-4%. Gold & Commodities  – Some digital platforms like Maybank’s Gold Investment Account allow small investments in gold, making it easy to hedge against inflation. You can start with as little as RM1,000 and gradually accumulate more. Gold is widely considered to be a safe investment as the general trends have always shown a steady rise, however the price of gold can fluctuate at any time giving you a harder time predicting its value. Unit Trusts  – Many fund houses in Malaysia allow initial investments starting at RM1,000. These funds pool money from multiple investors and are professionally managed to provide diversified exposure to equities, bonds, and other assets. You don’t need to be an expert—just choose a fund that matches your risk appetite. These are low to moderate in risks depending on the fund asset allocations. Balanced funds give 4-7% while equity funds have a return of 7-12%. Robo-Advisors  – Platforms like StashAway , or Wahed Invest allow you to start investing with relatively low deposits. Robo-advisors use algorithms to automatically manage your portfolio based on your risk tolerance, making them ideal for hands-off investors. Robo-Advisors are also low to moderate in risks as they operate the same way unit trusts do. It all depends on the investment knowledge you have when investing. Stocks & ETFs  – Some brokerage platforms like moomoo allow fractional investing, meaning you can buy shares of big companies  like Tesla, Apple, or Google without needing to fork out thousands. Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) provide diversification by tracking indices like the S&P 500, giving you exposure to multiple stocks in one investment. This category is within moderate to high risks. While annual returns can potentially be higher than 15%, the market is much more prone to volatility. With RM1,000, you can diversify even with a small amount , spreading your risk across different investment classes while keeping your capital protected. It should also be noted that please use one account as much as possible. This can facilitate your fund management and improve the efficiency of fund usage. In this way, you can quickly allocate funds to places with higher certainty of returns. This is the benefit of using moomoo . In moomoo , you can invest in FDs, gold ETFs, stocks, etc. with one account. You can choose different investment categories based on your risk tolerance. This makes it easier for you to manage your assets and thereby obtain higher returns. The Power of Compounding – Your Money Grows While You Sleep Investing isn’t just about putting money in and hoping it grows. It’s about harnessing the power of compounding—where your money earns returns, and those returns start earning more returns. A helpful & simple tool that anyone can use to determine investments is the rule of 72. Using this formula, you just enter your capital and return rate to determine how long it would take to double your investments. Here’s a simple breakdown using the Rule of 72: At a 7% return per year → Your RM1,000 doubles in 10 years. At a 10% return per year → Your RM1,000 doubles in 7.2 years. By consistently reinvesting your gains and adding more funds when possible, you can supercharge your investment growth over time. Low-Risk Learning & Experimentation One of the biggest fears new investors have is losing money. But starting with RM1,000 keeps your risks manageable. Instead of going all-in with a big sum, you can use RM1,000 to test different strategies, learn from small mistakes, and refine your investment approach. It’s a great way to build confidence and develop investing discipline without worrying about major financial losses. Avoiding the “Paralysis by Analysis” Trap Many people hesitate to invest because they feel overwhelmed by choices, afraid of making mistakes, or simply unsure of where to begin. But here’s the truth: starting is more important than starting perfectly. RM1,000 is the perfect psychological entry point—it’s small enough to be comfortable, yet significant enough to build good investing habits. Instead of waiting for the “perfect time,” take action now. The best investors in the world don’t wait; they start, learn, and adapt. Moomoo's latest promotion Get Started Today with moomoo The hardest part of investing? Getting started. But with platforms like moomoo , investing has never been easier. Open an account with moomoo  and enjoy 180 days of commission-free trading  across US, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong & China-A stock markets! Plus, get a 5% return for 30 days  with Cash Plus!   Moomoo’s  Cash Plus  offers a smarter way to grow your money with a high-yield money market fund. With returns of up to *5% p.a. , no lock-up period, and zero fees, it’s a low-risk way to earn passive income while keeping your funds accessible. You can start investing with as little as RM0.01 , making it an easy and flexible option for anyone looking to optimize their cash. *If the annual return rate of your subscribed fund is below 5% p.a., Moomoo MY will subsidize the difference for up to 30 days in the form of cash coupons, limited to RM10,000 in your first subscribed fund. New users will receive the subsidy 30 days after their initial subscription. Deposit RM1,000+  and claim RM140 in rewards , or go bigger—deposit RM30,000+ and make 3 trades  to get RM1,700 worth of Tesla shares! *Use our exclusive code MMTV40  for extra RM40 stock cash coupons. Check the picture down below for steps on how to get started today! *T&Cs apply. All views expressed in the article are the independent opinions of Mr Money TV, which are not shared by Moomoo Securities Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. ("Moomoo MY"). No content shall be considered financial advice or recommendation. Moomoo MY links are included in this post, through which referrals are made and I may receive certain commissions. Please contact Moomoo MY for more information. Use our code: MMTV40 to get an extra RM40. Remember, the key to financial freedom isn’t how much you start with—it’s about starting early, staying consistent, and making smart investment choices. Your RM1,000 today could be the foundation for long-term wealth.

Investment can be quite exciting when you start to understand the tricks of the trade. Thanks to the advancements of financial technology, there are now more ways for a beginner or even a seasoned investor to invest and trade more efficiently, and to add to the excitement, the ability to do it globally. In this article, we will be talking about Interactive Brokers , a global brokerage firm that is well-known among investors around the world for its broad investment opportunities and features. UPDATED (8 Oct 2025): Guess what? We launched our own budgeting app. Even better, a personal assistant on all your money matters, right inside your WhatsApp. It’s FREE - register here . What are Interactive Brokers? Interactive Brokers (IBKR)  is a Nasdaq-listed online trading platform founded in 1978. It offers access to more than 160 global markets, with a diverse range of investment products, including stocks, bonds, ETF, options, futures, and forex, making it an appealing single unified platform choice for individual traders and institutional investors worldwide. IBKR is also known for its low fees and advanced tools for investors to utilize. Why invest with Interactive Brokers? IBKR’s strength is that it provides everything under one roof - so to speak - where you have everything you need to make your investment decisions.  As mentioned earlier, the platform provides access to global markets, allowing investors to find the most attractive market to invest in. IBKR allows investors to fund account and trade assets using 28 world currencies as a base currency, with access to interbank currency trading quotes without any markups or hidden charges. Another interesting thing to note about IBKR is that they are powered with so many tools to use - for example, the IBKR Global Analyst, where investors can scan for investment opportunities around the world before deciding where to invest. Most importantly, IBKR can be relied on for security and trust. As a multiple award-winning broker, they take security seriously and are committed to protect clients from large trading losses through its strong capital position, conservative balance sheet and automated risk controls. What are the fees? IBKR has one of the lowest fees for brokerage out there, and the platform prides itself for professional pricing with low borrowing costs. Opening an account is free, while the trading fees differ by country and region.  Here is the Tiered fee structure for Malaysian investors, which varies from 0.03% - 0.08% depending on the trade value . Unfortunately there is no Fixed rate yet for Malaysia, but the Tiered price seems competitive enough. For withdrawals, IBKR provides one free withdrawal request per calendar month, but any additional ones made in the same month will incur fees. Other than these, IBKR does not impose any more fees, such as  inactivity, custodian, dividend handling, maintenance fees of sorts. Nevertheless, one important tip when selecting a broker is that they are transparent with their charges, and IBKR seems to do it quite well. You can find out a lot of information regarding pricing by checking their website here . IBKR features, tools and learning resources It does  not matter if you are a newbie or a seasoned investor, you can make use of IBKR’s impressive features, tools and learning resources to grow your skills and knowledge of the field. There are tonnes of features and tools offered by IBKR , but we particularly appreciate these ones: Client Portal The Client Portal, which functions like a dashboard, offers a straightforward interface for users to view their portfolios and execute simple buy and sell orders. This is especially good for beginners - the interface is simple and clean, without being overwhelming. IBKR Mobile You can access IBKR on the go, or on your mobile devices via a simplified version of client portal, which is great for easy and quick trades. IBKR Trader Workstation (TWS) The Trader Workstation is perfect for the more seasoned traders. It provides in-depth customization and trading, as it has real-time market data, advanced charting, and risk management tools.  TWS also offers tools for watchlists, order entry, portfolio monitoring, and more. The platform can be downloaded from the IBKR website, with no login free, although some advanced features may require a subscription. IBKR Global Analyst The Global Analyst feature allows traders to identify specific global stocks based on price-to-earnings ratios, market capitalization, growth rate, and so on. In fact, you can also customize what you want to see. It can easily find stocks that match  investor’s strategies based on different variables and suggest suitable ones that match the investor’s goals. It can help to find stocks at potentially undervalued prices across the globe, saves time by allowing targeted searches, and simplifies comparison by presenting relevant data in one place. IBKR Campus The IBKR Campus provides an impressive and comprehensive learning environment which is great for beginners. Nevertheless, no matter what level you are, you can learn about finance, IBKR products and services, markets and technology. Resources are available for learners and educators, ranging from online courses, webinars, podcasts and more.  Besides the one we highlighted, IBKR also provides access to 200 free and premium research and news providers, which can be essential to get to know the climate of the market and current sentiments. Pros and cons of IKBR: To wrap up, here’s our honest take about IBKR in terms of its pros and cons: PROS CONS Low commission and trading fees One-stop investment and trading platform Broad market reach for Malaysian investors Comprehensive learning resources to help beginners learn Sophisticated and in-depth tools for experienced traders Better cash returns compared to common Malaysian banks offer Robust infrastructure Can be intimidating to beginners due to its complex features Steep learning curve Does not support MYR currency, requires services like Wise or TT to fund the account With that being said, if investment is your game and you are interested in taking it up a notch, Interactive Brokers is definitely a recommended and trusted broker.  Get started today and next, find out how to open your free account from our step-by-step guide !

In the dynamic world of investments, the allure of daily returns is compelling. Think of Touch ‘n Go GO+ where your funds will accrue daily interest or StashAway Simple, which works the same way. Speaking of investments, Moomoo has recently made its debut in Malaysia, bringing with it an exciting opportunity for free money. If this is up your alley, dive into the details below to discover what MooMoo has in store for you - and it's a lot! UPDATED (8 Oct 2025): Guess what? We launched our own budgeting app. Even better, a personal assistant on all your money matters, right inside your WhatsApp. It’s FREE - register here . The one thing in common for both of these products (Touch ‘n Go GO+ and StashAway Simple) is that their primary investment vehicle is Money Market Funds (MMFs). These funds invest in highly liquid, short-term instruments, such as treasury bills and commercial papers, offering investors a unique blend of low risk and high liquidity . What makes MMFs particularly appealing is their ability to provide returns on a daily basis , making them an excellent choice for investors seeking stability alongside immediate income. Now that you have a better understanding of the mechanism behind these sorts of investments, let’s delve into the top 3 investments with daily returns, that are highly liquid and low-risk in Malaysia. 1. Touch n’ Go GO+ What Is Touch n’ Go GO+? According to TNG , GO+ is a Touch ’n Go eWallet feature which allows the balance in your GO+ account to earn potential returns. The underlying fund for GO+ is Principal e-Cash – a Shariah-compliant Money Market Fund managed by Principal Asset Management Berhad that aims to provide investors with liquidity and income. However, do note that it is neither capital guaranteed nor capital protected by PIDM. Benefits of Touch n’ Go GO+ Easy and fast to open the GO+ account Seamlessly reload into your Touch ‘n Go eWallet balance via Quick Reload Payment Earn daily returns Make cash-out requests anytime you like Daily Return Rate of Touch n’ Go GO+ 3.45% p.a. Minimum & Maximum Deposit for Touch n’ Go GO+ Minimum Deposit: RM10 Maximum Deposit: RM9,500 Fees Involved in Touch n’ Go GO+ Zero sales, cash-in or cash-out charges. Management fee: Up to 0.45% per annum. Trustee Fee: Up to 0.03% per annum. The daily returns you receive are after all deductions of all fees and charges. How To Open A Touch n’ Go GO+ Account? Download the Touch n’ Go mobile application and open an account. Click on the Upgrade Now icon in Touch 'n Go eWallet. Complete account verification (Submit your ID and personal details) Update your personal details on Touch 'n Go eWallet. Receive verification that your upgrade is successful, and begin to Cash In to GO+. 2. Versa Save (Versa Cash/Versa Cash-i) What Is Versa Save? According to Versa , Versa Cash and Versa Cash-i (Syariah-compliant fund) are their low-risk savings funds . The funds are strategically allocated to provide competitive returns on par with Fixed Deposits, with the freedom to cash out anytime . Versa Cash invests in a specific Money Market Fund called AHAM Enhanced Deposit Fund which only invests in low-risk assets – short-term deposits in multiple Malaysian banks. Unlike Fixed Deposits which only offer basic interest, Versa Cash offers interest that is compounded daily . You can also withdraw anytime with all the interest earned and with no penalties! However, do note that the fund is not protected by PIDM but is regulated by the Securities Commission Malaysia. Benefits of Versa Save (Versa Cash/Versa Cash-i) No lock-in periods: Access your savings anytime with the flexibility to cash in and out without penalties. Low and transparent fees: Enjoy zero fees with no hidden charges. Competitive returns: Expect returns that are on par if not more than Fixed Deposits rates in the market. Daily Return Rate of Versa Save Versa Cash: 3.82% p.a. Versa Cash-i: 3.28% p.a. Currently, they are offering a net return rate promotion of up to 4.3% p.a. for both products under Versa Save. Minimum & Maximum Deposit for Versa Save (Versa Cash/Versa Cash-i) Minimum Deposit: RM10 Maximum Deposit: None Fees Involved in Versa Save (Versa Cash/Versa Cash-i) Zero sales and redemption fee. Management fee: 0.30% p.a. Trustee Fee: 0.05% p.a. How To Open A Versa Save (Versa Cash/Versa Cash-i) Account? Download the Versa mobile application. Take a quick Suitability Assessment Test to find out the type of investor you are. Verify your Versa Account through your mobile number and eKYC. Confirm personal details. Select “Versa Save” and choose either Versa Cash or Versa Cash-i. Make a deposit and start earning daily! 3. StashAway Simple What Is StashAway Simple? According to StashAway , StashAway Simple is an ultra-low-risk cash management portfolio. The underlying fund of StashAway Simple is the Eastspring Investments Islamic Income Fund. Unlike fixed deposit accounts that require a minimum lock-up period, you can withdraw from StashAway Simple at any time . In addition, your Simple portfolio is made up of ultra-low-risk assets but is not insured. Benefits of StashAway Simple No limit on the amount that can earn the projected rate No investment, insurance, or salary requirements Prepare for short-term liquidity needs Daily Return Rate of StashAway Simple 3.8% p.a. The StashAway Simple portfolio earns returns in three ways. Monthly Dividends : You’ll earn monthly dividends and they’ll be paid out each month. Capital Appreciation : The value of your funds in StashAway Simple will increase as the underlying fund appreciates in value. This updates daily from Tuesday to Saturday, excluding public holidays in Malaysia. Quarterly Rebates : StashAway receive rebates from the underlying fund manager and returns 100% of them back to you. The rebates make up approximately 0.175% of the projected return. You’ll see them credited into your portfolio after the end of each quarter. Minimum & Maximum Deposit for StashAway Simple Minimum Deposit: RM1 Maximum Deposit: None Fees Involved in StashAway Simple Annual Fee: Free Underlying fund manager net fee: 0.115% (embedded in the projected rate) How To Open A StashAway Simple Account? Download the StashAway mobile application. Create an account and verify your identification. Open a “StashAway Simple” portfolio and start earning! Should You Invest Your Money in Money Market Funds Versus Other Investments? Deciding whether to invest or save your money in Money Market Funds (MMFs) in comparison to other investment vehicles can be a bit like choosing your favourite ice cream flavour – each has its own appeal and it really depends on your taste or, in this case, your financial goals and risk appetite. Let's compare Money Market Funds with two other popular options: Fixed Deposits and Stock Market Investing. Money Market Funds like Touch ‘n Go GO+, Versa Save, and StashAway Simple are like the vanilla flavour of investments – they're straightforward and reliable . They give you daily returns, which is like getting a small scoop of ice cream every day. They are highly liquid , meaning you can withdraw your money easily, and they're low-risk. However, the returns are usually lower than what you might get from riskier investments. Fixed Deposits , on the other hand, are more like a chocolate flavour – a classic choice. They offer stability and a guaranteed return , but your money is locked away for a set period . You won’t have the daily returns like with MMFs, but often the overall return can be quite competitive. However, if you need your money back before the term ends, you might face penalties. Stock Market Investing is like a rocky road – it can be thrilling but bumpy. The potential returns can be much higher, but so is the risk . Your investment can grow significantly, but it can also drop just as quickly. Unlike MMFs, the stock market doesn’t offer the same level of liquidity or stability . So, should you invest in Money Market Funds? If you value stability, need regular access to your funds, and prefer a lower-risk option, then yes , MMFs could be a great fit for you. They offer the peace of mind that comes with knowing you're earning a little bit every day, and you can pull out your money whenever you need it. However, if you're looking for higher returns and are comfortable with more risk, or if you don't need immediate access to your cash, exploring fixed deposits or stock market investments could be more up your alley. In the end, it's all about what works best for you. Whether it's the daily rewards of MMFs, the stability of fixed deposits, or the exciting potential of the stock market, there's an investment flavour out there for everyone. Don't forget the cherry on top! Moomoo 's launch in Malaysia introduces an exciting and much anticipated opportunity for Malaysian investors looking to diversify their portfolios . If you haven't heard of Moomoo, it's a platform that lets users buy and sell stocks, options, ETFs, and other financial products from around the world . With Moomoo coming to Malaysia, it offers many tools that are easy to use for both beginners and experienced investors. But the important part here is you can't have a big launch without big rewards , right? So, here's the deal: Sign Up & Deposit : By simply signing up and depositing RM 500 , you're rewarded with an RM 100 cash voucher . Go Big or Go Home : But if you deposit RM 8,000 not only do you secure another RM 100 cash voucher but also a FREE APPLE share worth RM 900 . Time Frame : This offer is only available from 26th February 2024 to 31st March 2024 , giving you enough time to get into the investing scene. Additional Perks for Opening an Account with Moomoo : 1. Enjoy a 180-day $0 commission fee period for trading on both the US and Bursa stock markets, essentially lowering the barrier to international and local market entries for you. 2. Gain access to premium market data with 60 depth levels for US stocks and 5 depth levels for Bursa Malaysia stocks . Talk about empowering you with in-depth market insights! To get started and unlock these rewards, simply use this exclusive link: tinyurl.com/flmm24 Wait are you waiting for? Download the Moomoo app from the App Store or Google Play now and start exploring your investment options today! Subscribe to our financial newsletter for the latest news, insights, and advice on personal finance, investing, and more. With every email, you’ll gather the confidence and knowledge to make informed decisions to achieve your financial goals.

Speaking of financial literacy, we all have probably heard the old adage of “ In the long run, it’s not just how much money you make that will determine your future prosperity. It’s how much of that money you put to work by saving it and investing it .” But, the real question is how exactly do we do it? UPDATED (8 Oct 2025): Guess what? We launched our own budgeting app. Even better, a personal assistant on all your money matters, right inside your WhatsApp. It’s FREE - register here .   One of the ways is to build wealth, and more often than not, the first thing that comes to mind is to start an investment. However, to some newbies or even experienced investors, it could sometimes get quite overwhelming. But wait, what if there is actually a way to invest in an easy, simple and most importantly, effective way? The answer could be StashAway - a digital wealth management platform that allows you to build an investment portfolio that is tailored to you and your financial goals. It uses an algorithm based robo-advisor that will monitor your investments and do the necessary rebalancing in your account ( selling and buying ) to suit your investment goals. Read on as we share more in this StashAway review: How does StashAway work? The aptly named StashAway provides a simple investing solution - you stash your money away and invest in a low-cost, risk-managed portfolio of Exchange-Traded Funds (ETF).  ETF allows for an investment in a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, or other assets without the need to pick individual securities. Instead of having to worry about which stock will perform best, an ETF gives you exposure to a broad range of companies or industries, and spreads out your risk. Investing in an ETF also allows for a more passive investment that does not require us to constantly monitor our portfolios. With the robo-advisor technology, StashAway automates the investment and builds a portfolio that is customized to the investor’s risk profile and subsequently monitors the investment. The platform also allows recurring transfers and keeps investors informed by sending regular updates from its CIO. With its low and transparent fee structure, it's pretty much a comfortable place for anyone to start investing. Who is StashAway suitable for? StashAway is great for beginners, because it takes out the guesswork and reduces the anxiety that comes with investing for the first time. Nevertheless, it is also still a smart and reliable investment option for anyone with any investment experience level, because it builds a diversified portfolio and manages risk effectively. Nobody needs to be a market expert to get started investing in StashAway .  How about StashAway fees? Compared to unit trust funds that typically come with a 5% upfront sales charge and a 2% annual management fee, StashAway fees only range from 0.2% to 0.8% per year. The annual management fee in StashAway is calculated as a percentage of the total assets under management and is charged monthly on a pro-rated basis. The other fee included is the low fee associated with the ETFs, averaging 0.15% - 0.25%. Other than that, a currency conversion fee is charged at 0.29% of the transaction amount, which is the fees charged by StashAway vendors, but is a lot better against the higher currency conversion fees charged by commercial/retail banks (1-3% depending on transaction size). StashAway does not charge for: Withdrawals Opening an account Closing an account They also provide unlimited and free: Withdrawals Switching or transfers between portfolios Whatever costs related to rebalancing, and re-optimisation are already included in the said fees percentage above. Is StashAway safe? StashAway is licensed by the Securities Commission Malaysia, and all investors' money are held safely by custodian banks, namely Citibank and HSBC.  They don’t mix up their operation funds with investor’s money, by using an SC licensed trustee, so that also makes it secure. The system adopts a strict withdrawal verification, with a 2-factor identification in place for login. What type of investments are offered by StashAway? StashAway provides a few ways to start investment. Depending on what your goals are, you can select from: General investing for the long run Thematic portfolios if you wish to invest in certain technologies Flexible Portfolios where you can pick the asset classes you want, decide their exact allocations, and change them any time Grow cash with StashAway Simple Projected 3.6% return per annum Shariah compliant funds Perfect for saving for retirement, education, or something on your wishlist Start investing with StashAway So there it is, we have covered all the essentials that you need to know before starting to invest with StashAway. It could be the best solution if you are looking for a simplified, stress-free and low-risk platform to invest in. It could also be a great place for you to start growing cash for your travel or wishlist sinking fund through StashAway Simple . Whatever it is, we hope it will help you reach your financial goals in time. Visit StashAway's website  or download the StashAway app from Google Play Store or Apple Appstore to get started with your investment! How to to sign up and set up a portfolio on StashAway: Getting started with StashAway is easy! All you need to do is download the app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store, and just follow the steps outlined below: Click on the Sign Up button to begin: Select “Create a New Account” : Choose your authentication method, whether to use Face ID or PIN: Enter your details into the form: Answer questions related to your eligibility: StashAway will begin a financial assessment to customise your portfolio: Once done, you can start setting-up your investment portfolio. For this guide, let’s go for General Investing. Select the “Invest for long-term wealth” option: Choose the “Hands-off” option to let StashAway manage the investment for you: Select “General Investing” and then tap on “Explore”: Here, it'll show you the details for your portfolio depending on your risk appetite: You will be asked to select your risk appetite by sliding the button up and down the range: Name your investment portfolio accordingly so that you can easily manage it later, and select “Create Portfolio”: Once your portfolio is set up, you'll be taken to the deposit page. Here, you can choose from three options: direct debit (quick and easy from your bank account), manual deposit (online transfer), or asset transfer (move investments from another portfolio). Do note that first time deposits will take up to 6 business days to process, according to StashAway’s e-mandate with banks that ensure security. You will be asked to fill in your personal and account details for deposits. Then you are given a choice of a one-time deposit or a recurring deposit. After choosing which type of deposit you want, you can enter the amount to deposit. Then review your details & deposit, and you’re done! That’s it! Once everything is completed, you will get a confirmation for your registration and  your account will be up and running within 1-3 business days. After you’ve deposited, you can look at the performance details of your investment in the ‘General Investing’ tab. Here, it will show you the current value of your investments, and the total returns that you’ve had overtime. Under the assets tab in ‘General Investing’, you can also browse through the different investments that StashAway has made. After you’ve completed all the steps, this is what your page will look like. Here you will be able to browse through performance graphs, and the different investments you’ve made! It’s 2025, a new year for new opportunities! Click the button below if you’re interested in getting started on your investment journey. 👇🏼 And don't forget to tune into our video where we dive into StashAway's performance over the years! You'll be interested to hear what we found 👀

Now that you have got to know about Interactive Brokers (IBKR) and are ready to start, we have prepared a step by step guide that can help you get started. IBKR provides a pretty straightforward user experience, so we believe in little time you will be up and running with your investments! UPDATED (8 Oct 2025): Guess what? We launched our own budgeting app. Even better, a personal assistant on all your money matters, right inside your WhatsApp. It’s FREE - register here . How to open an account with IBKR? First things first, head on to IBKR's page to open an account. 1) Fill in your details and make sure you choose the country where you are from (corresponds with your identity card), not where you reside. In this case let’s choose MALAYSIA. Click Create Account  when you are ready. 2) You will receive an email from IBKR to confirm and verify your email shortly after. 3) After verifying, you can proceed to choose what kind of account that you want to create. Individual Joint account: Joint account is suitable for couples who want to manage the account jointly and have equal rights to access. However, take note that there might be some legal or tax implications that you need to be aware of. Interactive Brokers (IBKR) Accounts 4) Next, fill in all the required personal details in the form. Tip : It's good to fill in your Tax Identification Number  if you already have it. You can get it from Borang B or Borang BE of your Cukai Pendapatan . 5) After that, IBKR will prompt you to configure your account. Now is the time to choose between 3 types of investment : Cash, Margin or Portfolio Margin. Tip: We strongly recommend you to set up a Cash account as a beginner as this comes with the least risk. Plus you can always change it later once you get more experience. 6) IBKR will also ask you about your Trading Experience in order for them to gauge your knowledge and grant you certain features based on your experience. Just key in your relevant information as you go along. For Malaysians, we are not qualified for the US Treaty Benefits Qualifications so be sure to check the box. 7) Then, go through the certification details, click Yes to agree with the T&C and you will be directed to sign it off electronically. 8) Now that this part is done, you will be directed to the e-KYC process. This is where you need to submit proof to verify your identity (for Malaysians it is the IC) and take a selfie. 9) Once submitted, the system will start verifying you and your documents, and prompt you to wait a while. If all is clear, you will get a notification that your application is now in process. 10) You will receive an email from IBKR stating that your application has been approved. From this point you can now login to the platform and start funding your investment. It usually takes less than 24 hours to be approved, on average. How to fund your IKBR account? Although IBKR does not allow MYR as a base currency to fund your investments, there are a few options for Malaysian investors to do so. First, click on the “Transfer & Pay” button on the upper screen, then you will find the “Transfer Funds” button. Select “Deposit Funds”. Methods of funding your IBKR account Here are the options for fund your account: Use a Bank transfer  Use Foreign Telegraphic Transfer (TT) service from your local account in MYR to IBKR’s international account. Note that your bank will charge a fee for this currency conversion and the wiring transaction so it's good to check with your bank beforehand. Also, it will take a few days to appear in your IBKR account. Use Wise transfer If you have a Wise account, you can use it to transfer money into your funds using the currency of your choice in IBKR. Wise is known to have competitive rates and is a good option to fund your account. First and foremost, you need to link your Wise account to your IBKR account. Once it is linked to IBKR, you can see your balances in Wise instantly within IBKR site. From there, you can choose to transfer money from Wise to IBKR, using one of these 2 methods: Transfer from Wise Balance Bank transfer via Wise Deposit using Wise Wise will do the necessary conversion into your target currency. They will handle all the fees, including whatever fees charged by IBKR . Once you have successfully funded your account, it's time to place orders and begin your first trade. Navigating the platform You will see a big dashboard once your account is verified and approved and you login to the homepage. From here you can start exploring your options for your first trade or investment. Interactive Brokers (IBKR) Dashboard L ive charts, essential financial indicators, and an easy-to-use order form for purchasing shares.r Conclusion That’s it! We hope this guide serves as a good guide for you to venture into IBKR and make the most out of your investments. Don’t forget that IBKR itself has a tonne of resources for learning, so make sure to leverage on it to broaden your experience and maximise returns from investing.

As healthcare costs continue to rise , choosing the right medical insurance or Takaful plan in Malaysia has become increasingly important.  In 2024, the variety and flexibility of policies available make it possible for individuals to find coverage that best suits their needs and financial situations. So here are the top 5 medical insurance and takaful options in Malaysia.  UPDATED (8 Oct 2025): Guess what? We launched our own budgeting app. Even better, a personal assistant on all your money matters, right inside your WhatsApp. It’s FREE - register here . 1. Prudential PRUValue Med Medical Card Limits Annual Limit: Not Applicable Lifetime Limit: Not Applicable Coverage and Benefits Based on their brochure , Coverage Age 18 gestational weeks - 100 years Number of Panel Hospitals 93 Investment-Linked Plan Yes My Review I think this health insurance is quite an  all-rounder . It covers most medical expense s more than adequately and has an  investment-linked pla n which is good for those who have a hard time saving on their own and a relatively  broad network of panel hospitals .  The “not applicable” lifetime and annual limit is also quite reassuring because it means that the policy offers unlimited coverage  for medical expenses, subject to other terms and conditions of the policy.  2. AIA A-Plus Health Medical Card Limits Annual Limit: From RM500k up to RM2m, depending on chosen plan Lifetime Limit: No Limit Coverage and Benefits Based on their brochure , Coverage Age 14 days - 100 years Number of Panel Hospitals 94 Investment-Linked Plan Yes My Review Similar to the Prudential PRUValue Med Medical Card, this insurance is also quite an all-rounder . However, a really cool addition that AIA offers is their  Health Wallet  which rewards policyholders with additional benefits  if they stay healthy and essentially go without claiming anything in a year.  One thing to note is that there are four plans you can consider and if you choose their lowest plan, Plan 150, your annual limit and certain coverages will be lower – which is expected.  So, it’s best to understand what kind of plan would be best for you in terms of coverage and budget.  3. FWD Insurance Medi First by BSN Limits Annual Limit: From RM1m up to RM5m, depending on chosen plan Lifetime Limit: No Limit Coverage and Benefits Based on their brochure , Coverage Age 30 days - 100 years old Number of Panel Hospitals 184 Investment-Linked Plan Yes My Review This insurance policy by BSN covers the standard medical expenses, although not by a lot but still a pretty good amount. One thing that I especially like is the Government Hospital Daily Cash Allowance of RM200  which should be able to offset the cost of a regular doctor’s check-up. Among all the medical insurance and takaful on this list, this policy has the most number of panel hospitals  (possibly because it’s BSN and has some ties to the government) which is a great thing, especially if you’re living on the outskirts of town. 4. Manulife Health Saver Benefit + MHSB Booster Limits Annual Limit: From RM1m up to RM2.2m, depending on the chosen plan Lifetime Limit: No Limit Coverage and Benefits Based on their brochure , Coverage Age 30 days - 99 years old Number of Panel Hospitals 93 Investment-Linked Plan Yes My Review This insurance policy has a really high annual limit  even if you choose the lowest plan which is pretty amazing. However, the coverage is not as comprehensive as the previous ones above.  With that being said, I think if you’re considering this policy, it’ll be a good idea to sign up for the MHSB Signature plan as the benefits are notably higher than the other three plans. Of course, this is if it fits your budget. 5. Takaful myClick MediCare Medical Card Limits Annual Limit: From RM50k up to RM100k, depending on chosen plan Lifetime Limit: Not Applicable Coverage and Benefits Based on their brochure , Coverage Age From 30 days Number of Panel Hospitals 98 Investment-Linked Plan No My Review This medical takaful policy covers the very basic medical expenses at a relatively low cost. And since it’s a takaful plan, 38% of the contribution is deducted upfront as the Wakalah fee and it’s not an investment-linked plan.  Personally, I think this policy is good enough if you’re young or just started working but as you get older, getting a more comprehensive plan would be best as the risk of falling sick is higher. Which Medical Insurance or Takaful Is The Best For You in Malaysia? Ultimately, choosing the best medical insurance or takaful in Malaysia depends on six factors: Budget and Affordability Determine how much you can comfortably spend on premiums and consider plans within your budget. Healthcare Needs Assess your healthcare needs based on age, health conditions, family history, and lifestyle. Coverage Scope Look for a plan that covers essential medical services you might need, including hospitalization, surgery, outpatient services, and any specific treatments. Network of Hospitals Consider the network of panel hospitals and whether they are accessible and meet your standards. Additional Benefits Evaluate any extra benefits like health screenings, wellness programs, or international coverage. Policy Terms Understand the terms, including limits, exclusions, claim processes, and renewal conditions. Personally, I think the best choice for you is one that will balance cost, coverage, and convenience according to your circumstances and preferences. Subscribe to our financial newsletter  for the latest news, insights, and advice on personal finance, investing, and more. With every email, you’ll gather the confidence and knowledge to make informed decisions to achieve your financial goals.

These days, there are a myriad of trading and investment brokerages saturating the Malaysian market. So much so that it can get overwhelming trying to find the “perfect” platform that feels like it’s made just for you.  UPDATED (8 Oct 2025): Guess what? We launched our own budgeting app. Even better, a personal assistant on all your money matters, right inside your WhatsApp. It’s FREE - register here . Perhaps you're an investor who... Is just starting out. Has years of experience in investing. Would like some guidance from your chosen platform. Wants a simple, direct way to trade. Well, no matter the kind of investor you are, in this article, we’ve got you covered. We’re going to compare  three of the most commonly used brokers in Malaysia – moomoo MY, M+ Global, and Interactive Brokers  breaking down what makes each tick.  Getting to Know: M+ Global, moomoo MY & Interactive Brokers moomoo MY Moomoo MY  is a subsidiary of Futu Holdings Limited , a leading fintech company in China. Launched in Malaysia  in 2024, moomoo MY offers  a user-friendly platform with features such as commission-free trading, advanced trading tools, and access to global markets. With a focus on the younger generation of investors, the platform aims to provide a seamless investing experience.  Additionally, the broker is a Capital Markets Services License holder and is regulated by the Securities Commission ( SC ) Malaysia. It is also a Capital Market Compensation (CMC) Fund Protected whereby eligible investors may claim up to RM100,000 on eligible Malaysia securities/related assets should an unlikely event occur. M+ Global M+ Global  is an investment trading platform launched  in 2023 by one of the most renowned stock brokers in town - Malacca Securities Sdn Bhd . With a diverse range of investment products including stocks, ETFs, and mutual funds, M+ Global emphasises  simplicity and transparency, offering competitive fees and comprehensive research tools to help users make informed investment decisions. M+ Global fully licensed and regulated by SC as Malacca Securities Sdn Bhd is the parent company of Malacca Securities is a participating Organisation of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad . Interactive Brokers (IBKR) Interactive Brokers  (IBKR) is a renowned global brokerage firm founded in 1978 . Offering access to over 135 markets in 33 countries, IBKR provides  a wide range of investment products, including stocks, options, futures, and forex. With low fees and advanced tools, IBKR is popular among active traders and institutional investors worldwide. Unfortunately, IBKR isn't regulated  by SC Malaysia because it operates under U.S. regulations. Malaysian accounts are automatically set up with Interactive Brokers LLC in the U.S., not allowing us to choose a specific entity. This means any issues that may occur would fall under U.S. jurisdiction. Now that you have a little background on each of these brokers, let’s get into the stuff that really matters – what is being offered by these platforms and how they compare to serve your different investment needs. Comparison #1: Investment Products and Market Access First up, let’s delve into the investment products and market each broker offers. Whether you’re interested in global exchanges like Wall Street or local opportunities in Malaysia, understanding what securities these apps provide is key. moomoo MY M+ Global Interactive Brokers Investment Products Stocks ETFs Warrants  REITs Stocks Warrants ETFs IPOs Bonds Over 10 products including stocks, ETFs, options, futures, bonds, and forex. Market Access Malaysia & US Malaysia, US & Hong Kong 150 markets including those in the US, Canada, Europe, Australia, India, and Singapore. My Review Simply based on these two categories, I found moomoo MY  and M+ Global  to be particularly welcoming for beginner investors . They offer a straightforward  array of investment options like stocks, ETFs, and REITs, which I believe aren’t too complicated for anyone just starting out. Both platforms maintain simplicity  by mainly focusing on markets in Malaysia, the U.S., and for M+ Global, Hong Kong as well. This simplicity is crucial for novices who would likely prefer to ease into the investing world  without being overwhelmed by too many choices. On the flip side, Interactive Brokers  is a powerhouse suited for the more advanced traders . The platform's extensive offering of investment products and access to an impressive 150 global markets offer a broad reach , perfect for those looking to employ complex trading strategies and explore investment opportunities across various international landscapes. Comparison 1: Cost Structure Next, let's examine the cost structure including must-know fees, margin and conversion rates associated with each platform. These are essential factors because they directly impact your investment costs and returns .  What we’re looking for is transparency and competitive pricing, reasonable borrowing costs, and favourable currency conversion rates which are critical in maximizing your investment potential while minimizing expenses. moomoo MY M+ Global Interactive Brokers Fees Account Opening   Free Platform Fee RM3/order or USD0.99/order. Tools & Resources Fee Free Account Opening   RM11 Trading Fee  US$3/trade or 0.10% of trade value  (whichever is higher). Tools & Resources Fee Free Account Opening   Free Trading Fee  0.05% - 0.10% of trade value  (depending on chosen plan). Tools & Resources Fee Extra charges apply  (depending on chosen plan and tools/resources) Margin Rate 6.8% 8% 6-8%  (depending on chosen currency) Conversion Rate MYR accepted. MYR accepted. MYR is not accepted.   The conversion rate depends on your chosen bank. My Review After comparing the cost structure of these three brokers, the “perfect” broker for you comes down to the type of investor you are – an active trader or a passive one.  Active traders , who may buy and sell a particular stock several times a day to dollar cost average  their investments, will find M+ Global  and Interactive Brokers   cheaper  over time. That's because both these platforms combine all your day's trades of a particular stock into one and charge you a single fee . For example, if you split RM5,000 worth of a stock's trade into 10 different entries of RM500 each, M+ Global and IBKR would charge you around RM5 in total because they treat it as one transaction. On the other hand, moomoo Malaysia  charges RM3 or USD0.99 for each trade . So, using the same example, you'd pay RM30 for those 10 trades since each one is charged separately. This makes moomoo more costly for those who trade a particular stock very frequently . However, if you’re a more passive investor  or  don’t have the time  to make multiple transactions in a day, it’ll make more sense for you to use moomoo Malaysia  as their platform fee is very competitive.  For instance, say you plan to buy RM5,000 worth of AAPL shares  in one transaction. With moomoo, the charge would only be RM3 or USD0.99. In comparison, M+ Global or IBKR would charge you around RM5 for the same buy.  Comparison 2: Features, Tools and Resources When evaluating any brokerage or investment platform, having a wide range of functionalities like features, tools, and resources is crucial. This variety ensures that you have access to all the necessary mechanisms to manage your portfolios effectively. moomoo MY M+ Global Interactive Brokers Features and Tools Market Monitor Trend Projection Company Analysis Heat Map Industrial Chain Institutional Tracker Investment Themes Market Overview Sector Overview ETFs Tracker Trending Stocks List Top Stocks List Watchlist IBKR GlobalAnalyst Reporting Suite Trader Workstation Resources and  Learning Materials Comments Section News Updates Paper Trade Learning Section News Updates Featured Topics Livestream IBKR Campus Technology Features in Focus Traders' Insight My Review Taking a close look at the functionalities offered by these brokerages, I find that M+ Global  and moomoo  are ideal for investment newcomers , while Interactive Brokers  is a better match for seasoned investors . Moomoo MY  being a more fintech-leaning  platform, is packed with a wealth of intuitive features  like the Market Monitor and Trend Projection, coupled with all kinds of resources  in the Learning Section and the Paper Trade tool. These ensure that even those  new to investing  can grow their knowledge and confidenc e to navigate the stock market.  However, I recognise that the extensive features and resources offered by moomoo could be a bit much for some. That's where M+ Global  steps in to provide a simpler alternative . By offering a more streamlined selection of functionalities , it effectively  minimises the risk of feeling overwhelmed  by too many choices, making it an approachable platform for those taking their first steps into investing  or maybe those who prefer getting straight to the point  of buying and selling their stocks. Meanwhile, Interactive Brokers  once again proves to be the ultimate toolkit for advanced investors . The depth of its analytical tools, such as the IBKR GlobalAnalyst  and Trader Workstation , offers a level of detail and customization  which suits more complex investment strategies that experienced investors are likely to dabble in. On top of that, the educational resources available through IBKR Campus  would certainly come in handy when keeping up with specific market trends and refining investment approaches.  BTW, are you looking for even more  stock market analysis & tools for your investment tradings? Introducing, Seeking Alpha . Seeking Alpha  is an investment research platform  that offers articles, financial analysis, insightful market commentary, and a community of investors for you to exchange ideas and strategies with when it comes to investing. From  detailed stock analysis and ratings  to earnings call transcripts and dividend information , the platform ensures that you have access to all the data you’ll need to make an informed investment decision.  Additionally, Seeking Alpha’s real-time news updates  will keep you abreast of market movements as they happen, while its portfolio tracking tool  allows for effective management of your investments.  But perhaps its most valuable asset is the vibrant community of investors  it hosts. The platform offers a space for lively discussions, debates, and sharing of insights that can enrich your investment strategy and decisions. Think of it as Twitter but solely dialled in on investments.  This community aspect is precisely why Seeking Alpha  has become my go-to platform , much more so than others like CNBC or CNN. As an investor, my decisions are largely influenced by market sentiment  rather than deep-dive chart analyses. This means I value a range of expert opinions on a specific stock to inform my own judgment on whether to buy, sell, or hold it in my portfolio. Seeking Alpha has been incredibly useful in facilitating this approach, allowing me to make well-rounded decisions with confidence.  So, I believe, whether you're a beginner eager to learn the ropes or a seasoned investor seeking sophisticated strategies and stock evaluations, Seeking Alpha will certainly equip you with all the tools and resources you’ll need to deepen your market understanding and enhance your portfolio performance.  Comparison 3: Platform UI/UX For any app or digital platform out there, the importance of user interface and user experience (UI/UX) cannot be overstated. This is especially true in the case of a brokerage app and/or platform.  Primarily, this is because the UI/UX directly impacts your ability to navigate markets effectively . A user-friendly interface enables quick decision-making, ensures easy access to essential data, and facilitates smooth trade execution, crucial for seizing market opportunities.   moomoo MY M+ Global Interactive Brokers Ease of Use and Intuitiveness User-friendly design. Intuitive interface. Many features can overwhelm users. With fewer features, it is straightforward and less crowded. Intuitive user experience. Powerful platform. Interface can be complex and overwhelming due to advanced functionalities. Real-Time Data and Speed Quick access to real-time market data.  Fast execution. Provides real-time data efficiently. May experience slight delays during peak hours. Known for its robust infrastructure. Ensures high-speed data transmission and trade execution. Customization and Analytical Tools Wide array of customizable features. Has advanced analytical tools. Provides essential tools and analytical capabilities. Limited customization options. Highly customizable interface. Offers broad range of sophisticated analytical tools. My Review When it comes to the UI/UX of these three brokerages, I find that each platform would suit different kinds of investors. For those who are just starting  their investment journey, moomoo Malaysia  is my top recommendation. It's incredibly user-friendly  and the features and tools that come with the platform are arranged intuitively, making it less daunting for newcomers. Personally, I found its instinctive approach ideal for easing into the trading world, especially for those who need some hand-holding. Meanwhile, M+ Global  is the go-to for investors who appreciate simplicity . It doesn't bombard you with too many features, which I think is perfect for those who might feel lost in more complex platforms. It strikes a nice balance between being helpful and not overcomplicated , offering just enough to get you trading without any hassle. For beginners needing less guidance  or those who prefer a lean trading experience , M+ Global hits the mark. Interactive Brokers  is undoubtedly designed for the seasoned trader . Its platform might be a bit challenging to navigate  at first, but for those with experience, it's a treasure trove of tools and analytics. The customization  and sophisticated analytical capabilities  are impressive , catering to almost any strategy you might have. From my perspective, if you're serious about trading and ready to tackle its steep learning curve, IBKR offers unparalleled depth. Comparison 4: Account Opening Opening an account is your first real interaction with a brokerage, and it can tell you a lot about what to expect later on.  In this part of our broker comparison, we're looking at how simple or complicated it is to start trading with moomoo Malaysia, M+ Global, and Interactive Brokers in terms of what you need to do and how long it takes. moomoo MY M+ Global Interactive Brokers Simplicity and Speed Online account opening. 6 sections  to fill in. Takes  less than 10 minutes  to complete. Platform evaluation within 1-3 working days. Online account opening. 10 sections  to fill in. Takes 20 minutes  to complete. Platform evaluation within 1-3 working days.  Online account opening. More than 10 sections  to fill in. Takes 30-45 minutes  to complete. Platform evaluation within 1-3 working days.  Verification Identity verification via e-KYC. Phone number verification via TAC. Email verification via 6-digit code. Identity verification via e-KYC. Phone number verification via TAC. Email verification via 6-digit code. Bank statement verification  via file upload. Identity verification via photo ID. Phone number verification via TAC. Email verification via 6-digit code. Residential address verification  via file upload. My Review Comparing the different account opening processes for these three brokers, I found that moomoo MY  is the best bet for beginners for its ease and speed, M+ Global  serves well those in the middle ground, and Interactive Brokers  is tailored for the seasoned investors seeking depth and breadth in their trading platform. To me, moomoo MY  stands out for its simplicity , offering a quick and easy account setup  that’s perfect for beginners  or those seeking straightforward trading . With a process that takes less than 10 minutes and minimal verification, it's ideal for investors eager to trade without hassle. Meanwhile, M+ Global  strikes a balance with a slightly longer setup time but remains user-friendly. It adds a layer of security  through bank statement verification, making it ideal for semi-experienced investors who prefer a bit more depth without the complexity of more advanced platforms. For advanced traders , Interactive Brokers  offers a detailed account opening process that aligns with the platform’s need for a comprehensive trading environment. Its thorough verification  caters to professionals seeking extensive market access and a secure, robust platform. Comparison 5: Customer Support When embarking on your investment journey, the quality of customer support can be just as crucial as the features and fees offered by a brokerage platform.  A prompt, helpful, and knowledgeable support team can significantly enhance your trading experience, providing peace of mind in times of uncertainty or urgency. moomoo MY M+ Global Interactive Brokers Accessibility and Availability Live chat, customer service hotline, email. 24 hours on weekdays;  09:30 - 21:30 on weekends and public holidays. Live chat, customer service hotline, email. 24-hour customer support, 7 days a week. Live chat, customer service hotline, email. 24-hour customer support, 5 days a week. Comprehensive Self-Help Resources FAQ section covers necessary queries. FAQ section covers a wider range of queries compared to moomoo. FAQ section is the most comprehensive among the three brokers. My Review When it comes down to the customer support offered by these three brokers, I find that if you're new  to investing, M+ Global  would serve you well. It's easy to reach out for help anytime , and their  FAQ section is detailed enough  to get you started without feeling lost. It's straightforward and user-friendly, ideal for beginners needing quick answers. For the pros , Interactive Brokers  offers an unmatched depth of information in its FAQs and 24/5 support, catering to advanced traders with specific needs. Its comprehensive resources are best suited for those who understand the intricacies of trading  and need detailed information. Which Broker Is The Best in Malaysia – M+ Global, moomoo MY or Interactive Brokers? Initially, when I had the idea to write this article, I thought I would be able to give you guys a direct answer. But when it comes down to it, I find that it’s not so straightforward after all. In my opinion, deciding on the “perfect” broker for you boils down to understanding your own investment style and needs.   For moomoo M Y , the platform is intuitively laid out, meaning you can find what you need without a manual. It’s filled with tools and functionalities that range from basic to advanced, catering to all levels of investors. And, if you're someone who leans towards a more “set-and-forget” style of investing, you'll appreciate moomoo's competitive platform fees. They make it an ideal choice for passive investors  looking to stretch their ringgit further. Plus, moomoo doesn't just leave you to fend for yourself; it offers a wealth of guidance through educational resources and in-depth analytical features, making it a nurturing space for those new to the investment scene. On the other hand, M+ Global   embodies the principle of simplicity. Its investment product offerings are straightforward, the app layout is clean, and the features and tools are exactly what you need, no more, no less. It’s the broker for those of us who aren't looking to make trading a full-time job. You get in, make your trades, and get on with your day , which is perfect for investors who value simplicity and efficiency over the bells and whistles. M+ Global's fee structure is particularly appealing for local active traders , as it consolidates transactions to minimize costs, and the fact that it accepts MYR without any fuss adds to its charm. Finally, Interactive Brokers  is the heavyweight champion for seasoned traders . It’s where the pros go, thanks to its incredibly detailed and customizable resources and tools. Yes, it's used by institutional traders , which tells you something about its capabilities. However, this also means that its platform can be a labyrinth for anyone who isn't trading stocks for a living. The UI/UX is, frankly, not the friendliest, and it can feel like you need a degree in finance to navigate it effectively. But for those in the know, this complexity is a small price to pay for the depth and breadth  of options available, making it a powerhouse  for those looking to take their trading to the next level. Personally, I find the straightforward nature of M+ Global  aligns with my active and rather experienced investment style, which leans towards leveraging market sentiment over intricate charts and analytics. This preference is due to my approach of preferring to make swift decisions  based on the broader market trends and insights, which M+ Global facilitates with its streamlined platform. The ideal broker for me cuts through the noise, providing a seamless and efficient trading experience  that allows for quick action. Ultimately, the quest for the best broker in Malaysia isn't about finding a one-size-fits-all solution but rather understanding which platform aligns best with your individual trading style, needs, and level of experience . Whether you're drawn to the comprehensive tools and guidance of moomoo Malaysia, the simplicity and efficiency of M+ Global, or the depth and sophistication of Interactive Brokers, each offers unique benefits tailored to different investor profiles. The “perfect” broker for you is one that not only meets your current trading needs but also supports your growth as an investor, helping you navigate the complexities of the market with confidence and ease. Which broker do you think suits you best? Reach out  and let us know! Disclaimer This is not a piece of investment advice. All content produced is solely for education and entertainment purposes only. Please consult your financial advisor before making any investment decision. Subscribe to our financial newsletter  for the latest news, insights, and advice on personal finance, investing, and more. With every email, you’ll gather the confidence and knowledge to make informed decisions to achieve your financial goals.

UPDATED (8 Oct 2025): Guess what? We launched our own budgeting app. Even better, a personal assistant on all your money matters, right inside your WhatsApp. It’s FREE - register here . Alamak! It’s two weeks until payday, and you’re already low on cash?! Where did all that money go? If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. It’s easy to lose track of where your money goes. Managing expenses can be a hassle—sometimes, it even feels like a full-time job. Budgeting apps are a great tool to help you stay on top of your spending. Let’s dive into the top five budgeting apps that can help you manage your money effectively. 1. Wally Wally is an AI-powered budgeting app that helps you keep track of your finances. It automatically tracks income, spending, pending bills, budgets, and just about everything financial. Source: Wally You can sign in with your email address, set savings goals, create daily budgets, log expenses and income, track expenses over time, set bill reminders, and more—all presented in a timeline feed or calendar. The app allows you to sync all your accounts and payments with over 15,000 banks in 60 different currencies across 70 countries. While the app is mostly free, it offers additional in-app features you can purchase, like a customised budget tool, handling foreign accounts, and additional currencies. Subscription Fee: Free (with in-app purchases) Platform Availability:   Google Play 2. Money Coach  Money Coach boasts a 4.6 rating on the Apple Store. It’s a comprehensive budgeting app that offers personalised guidance and a suite of tools to make managing money easier. The Quick Entry feature lets you create a transaction shortcut in just 2 seconds. Source: Money Coach Other key features include automatic expense tracking with auto-categorisation, customised budgets for various spending types, savings goals, and access to educational resources on personal finance. T he app also connects directly to your bank accounts to automatically import and categorise transactions , so you'll have a complete view of your expenses and savings across checking, savings, credit card, and investment accounts. A bonus point for this app is that it automatically syncs data across your iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch at the touch of a button. Subscription Fee: Free with in-app purchases. Subscription offers additional bonus features from the early development team. You have the option to test them with a free trial; after the trial period, a monthly subscription fee is required to continue using the app and its services. Platform Availability: App Store 3. YNAB (You Need A Budget) If you’re serious about your financial goals, then you can learn to do money differently with the YNAB app . This award-winning budgeting app helps users achieve their financial goals using a zero-based budgeting approach . Source: YNAB Y ou can organise your finances by linking your bank accounts, credit cards, and loan balances, all in one place for a centralised view of your finances. The app then guides you on how much of your income should go towards various categories such as goals, savings, debt, and expenses. For those looking to increase their financial literacy, YNAB includes financial education resources like free live classes offered by financial experts. Subscription Fee: 34-day free trial, followed by a monthly subscription of $14.99*/month (approximately RM65/month) Platform availability: Google Play  | App Store 4. Wallet: Budget & Money Manager (BudgetBackers) Wallet stands out as the best overall free app. It has the high ratings both on the App Store ( 4.6 ) and Google Play ( 4.7 ). The app is designed to help users save, plan, and manage their finances all in one place. Source: Wallet by BudgetBakers A unique feature of this app is its use of AI to generate automatic daily spending tracking and provide weekly spending reports. Another major plus is that the developers, BudgetBackers, do not sell customer data to third parties, so you don’t need to worry about your privacy. Subscription fee: Free  Platform availability:   Google Play  | App Store | Web App 5. Bill Organizer Budget Planner (TimelyBills) Never miss a bill again with Bill Organizer Budget Planner (TimelyBills) . This app is one of the top-rated, reliable bill reminders and budget planners out there. It’ll automatically remind you to pay your bills and keep you on track to pay off your loans. Source: TimelyBills It also acts as your personal financial advisor to ensure you stay within your budget. You can see how much you need to save for retirement with the built-in retirement calculator. You can even download your expense reports into PDF and Excel formats to document your finances. Subscription Fee:  Free  Platform availability: Google Play  | App Store   UPDATED (8 Oct 2025): Guess what? We launched our own budgeting app. Even better, a personal assistant on all your money matters, right inside your WhatsApp. It’s FREE - register here. Disclaimer: All prices listed are accurate at the time of writing; however, prices may vary at the time of purchase.  Subscribe to our   financial newsletter  for the latest news, insights, and advice on personal finance, investing, and more. With every email, you’ll gather the confidence and knowledge to make informed decisions to achieve your financial goals.

Inflation and lifestyle costs can be a major headache. How can Malaysians earning RM8,000 today feel poorer than their parents, who earned RM2,000 twenty years ago? It’s not about bad spending habits. Many are budgeting, saving, and investing, but somehow still feel the squeeze. Why? Official salaries have risen 7.9% since 2020, yet household costs like food, housing, childcare, and insurance have surged 25% to 40% . In this article, we’ll break down exactly how much purchasing power Malaysians have lost and reveal practical strategies for T20 and M40 earners to regain financial control . If you’re earning RM6,000 or RM10,000 and still feel broke, it might not be your fault—but understanding the system and learning how to play it is your responsibility. 1. The Wage vs Reality Gap Bank Negara reports salaries grew 7.9% since 2020. That’s a good thing, right? Not really. Official CPI inflation  rose 9.8% in the same period. Real-life essentials are even worse: Category Actual Increase Food & dining out +40% Housing +35% Childcare +30% Healthcare & insurance +15% Transport +30% Think of your salary as a bucket of water. If your expenses grow faster than your inflow, the bucket empties faster, no matter how much you pour in. Example:  If you earned RM5,000 in 2020, a 7.9% raise brings you to RM5,395 in 2024. Meanwhile, your lifestyle now costs RM5,440, RM945 less purchasing power per month . 2. Inflation - The Daily Squeeze Everyday life paints the same picture: Food:  Nasi lemak rose from RM3.44 to RM3.72. Annual inflation on dining out exceeds 4%, turning a RM60 family dinner into over RM100. School tech:  Families now spend between RM2,000 to RM4,000 yearly on laptops and iPads just to stay current. Transport:  A Perodua Kancil cost RM25,000 in the 2000s. An Axia today? Up to RM50,000. Housing:  Damansara homes that once cost between RM250,000 to RM400,000 now cost between RM1.5 mil to RM2 mil. Add renovations, furnishings, and mortgage pressures, and the numbers are staggering. Every extra RM500 on essentials is RM500 you can’t invest or save. Compounded over years, that’s tens of thousands in lost opportunity. 3. The Sandwich Generation Trap Many 30-to-40-somethings support both ageing parents and young children . Healthcare:  Parental medical costs rise 10% to 15% yearly. Plans that were once RM300 per month now cost upwards of RM600. Childcare:  Between RM1,200 to RM2,500 per child per month, with bigger families paying more. Education:  Private school fees can go up to RM50,000 per year. Even public schools still add fees, activities, and enrichment classes. Even M40 families often fall into a gap: too rich for subsidies, not wealthy enough for private services . The sandwich generation feels pressure from both ends, faced with accelerating lifestyle inflation and limited savings. 4. Why the B40/M40/T20 Labels Are Broken Household income classifications can also be misleading: A single person earning RM5,000 is in B40. But two people in the same household earning RM5,000 each makes it a T20 household. Add three kids and the reality diverges even more. Khazanah Research Institute highlights that dependents, location, and disposable income  are ignored. Two RM12,000 families can have entirely different financial stress. Using these brackets as benchmarks is like judging runners in different weather solely by their speed. Context matters. 5. Breaking Free from Our Parents’ Playbook Sorry, but the old financial playbook doesn’t work anymore. Home Ownership Trap Houses that once cost RM150,000 are between RM1.5 mil to RM2 mil now. Spending 60% to 70% of your income on mortgages can kill long-term wealth. Lost opportunity cost:  An RM5,000 per month mortgage might block investments from growing by 8% to 10% annually. Renting and investing might yield higher net wealth. “Best for Kids” Trap Overspending on schools, enrichment, and gadgets teaches kids two hidden lessons: stress and poor money habits. Instead, why not show them financial discipline  and develop their problem-solving skills? Redefining Success Flashy car or luxury home no longer mean success today. Focus on financial freedom, options, and long-term wealth : Live aggressively below your means. Measure success by freedom, not appearances. Teach kids financial responsibility over indulgence. 6. The New Investment Reality Old strategies like fixed deposits no longer protect purchasing power. Expenses rise 20% to 40% faster than official inflation , so 6% portfolio returns may be negative in real terms. Some smart alternative approaches available today include: Stocks:  Look for sectors that can pass on inflation, like tech or healthcare. Cryptocurrency:  Keep a small amount for growth & hedging. International Exposure:  Getting into USD or SGD assets can protect you against any ringgit weakness. Remember that bucket example earlier? Smart investing requires both inflow (investments) and leak control (spending discipline). 7. Practical Next Steps Here are some steps you can take to help you better protect and grow your wealth. Short-term:  Track expenses, question “must-have” costs, and open investment accounts.  Mid-term:  Automate investing, research stocks or exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and align family spending priorities to make sure everyone is on the same page.  Long-term:  Redefine your lifestyle for wealth creation, involve kids in money decisions to teach them financial discipline, and aim for a portfolio generating about 30% of income. Conclusion The old rules, like obsessing over owning a home, overspending for kids, and keeping up appearances, all of this can keep you feeling broke. Understanding inflation, real costs, and active wealth-building strategies  empowers you to regain control. Financial freedom is achievable, but you need to understand the system, plan smartly, and make informed choices. If you prefer this in video form, check it out here on our YouTube channel! Disclaimer This is not investment advice. All content is for education and entertainment purposes only . Consult a financial adviser before making investment decisions.

Almost every other week it feels like there’s a new investment app in the market. And each time, they’ll be marketed as the “best trading app” or the “cheapest brokerage app”. But more often than not, they end up not  being what they say they are. This time, trust me when I say moomoo  is the only  investment platform you’ll need to trade US, HK, SIngapore & Malaysia stocks. Whether you’re a beginner investor or a seasoned one, this app offers a blend of advanced features, user-friendly design, and invaluable educational resources that cater to the needs of every investor. A Comprehensive Moomoo Malaysia Review [2025] What is Moomoo? Moomoo  is the latest investment platform to arrive on Malaysia’s shores.  Here’s their backstory: Founded in 2018 in California, moomoo quickly set a benchmark for solving investor's challenges with its pro-level trading services and data . By 2021, it made a notable entry into Singapore, becoming a top choice for one in every four Singaporeans .  In 2022, moomoo ventured into Australia, introducing intelligent-assisted technology in investment analysis  and winning four awards from Wemoney. The following year, it expanded its innovative platform to Malaysia and Japan, offering comprehensive market information, investor education, and interactive community features .  Additionally, moomoo aimed to revolutionise the Canadian investment scene by providing in-depth market insights and educational tools  to help investors navigate and seize opportunities. What Can You Trade With Moomoo Malaysia? You will be able to trade US, HK, SG, China-A, and Malaysian stocks , including ETFs, warrants, and REITs , all with this single platform There’s also the option to trade Shariah-compliant stocks  as well as to trade with margin, better known as margin trading . Is Moomoo Safe and Licensed In Malaysia? Now you might be asking, all of their features sound great but is Moomoo legal in Malaysia? The answer is, YES!   Futu Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.  (" Moomoo MY ") is a Capital Markets Services License holder and is regulated by the Securities Commission Malaysia  (SC). Additionally, it is also a  Capital Market Compensation (CMC) Fund Protected  whereby an eligible individual investor may claim up to RM100,000 on eligible Malaysia securities/related assets should an unlikely event occur. What Are Moomoo’s Fees? Moomoo Malaysia’s pricing and fees can be broken down into three categories. 1. Trading Fees For the first six months  since account opening, No commission Platform Fees To trade US stocks: USD 0.99/order To trade Malaysia/Bursa stocks: RM3/order So for example, if you were to invest in Stock ABC, whether for RM100 or RM10,000, you’ll only be charged USD 0.99 for US Stocks or RM3 for Bursa Stocks! Other fees 2. M argin Rate Moomoo Malaysia’s margin rate is among the lowest in comparison to other brokerages at a rate of 6.8% . 3. Other Services No fees are charged for other services like: Account Opening Fund Deposit in MYR Fund Withdrawal in MYR Inactive Account Transfer Stock in Here's how you can earn a Nvidia share with moomoo! Use our code "MMTV40" for an extra RM40! Account Opening Benefits: Enjoy 180 days of commission-free trades across the US, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, and China-A stock markets – that’s half a year with no trading fees! 5% Guaranteed Return with Cash Plus for 30 days (up to RM10,000) Exclusive Cash Rewards for Deposits Deposit RM1,000 or more and get RM140 in rewards: RM50 cash coupon RM25 x 2 stock cash coupons RM20 x 2 exclusive stock cash coupons (use our code: MMTV40 ) Deposit RM5,000 or more  to claim RM200 Nvidia Share  as a reward. Deposit RM10,000 or more to unlock RM500 Nvidia Share as a reward. Deposit RM30,000 or more and make 3 buy trades to receive RM1,000 Nvidia Share*! * Terms and conditions apply. Limited to 5,000 participants, first come first served. Here’s a little trick lah okay – once you’ve deposited your RM30,000 into your account have received the Nvidia stock along with the cash voucher* (which can be used to buy stocks or even Bitcoin ETFs), wait 30 days then you can withdraw your RM30,000 and keep the goodies. By then you can decide whether to sell the Nvidia stock or continue keeping it. But I’m almost certain you won’t do it because the moomoo app will change your experience with investing – that’s how good it is. How to Get Our Exclusive Rewards? Before we explore the app's features, for being our loyal supporter, we want to give you an exclusive reward  when you make your first deposit via moomoo 's app. Follow the simple steps below to earn our Exclusive Reward of a RM40 cash voucher  when you deposit at least RM1,000 for the first time : Step 1: Search for "Exclusive Deposit" at the top right corner before making your first deposit Step 2: Click in "Join Now" to find the "Deposit" page Step 3: At the bottom of the "Deposit" page, find "Exclusive code (optional)" and key in our promo code: MMTV40 What Features Do Moomoo Have? I’ve been raving about moomoo  a lot in this article and I genuinely think it deserves the hype because it is truly an all-in-one super app. In my years of investing, I’ve rarely come across an investment platform that offers as many features as moomoo does. These features (that I’ll get into later) are both easy to navigate yet comprehensive enough for first-time investors and even seasoned ones. Moomoo Features 1: Heat Map The heat map is a visual tool used to display the performance of different market sectors  in a clear and intuitive manner.  As you can see in the picture above, the colour of each sector indicates its gains or losses, with the intensity of the colour reflecting the strength of the price movement. This means that larger sectors represent larger market caps, and the colour intensity provides immediate insight into sector performance. Then, if you click on each sector, you’ll be able to see a chart of how the overall sector is doing, key stocks that contribute to the market movement of the sector, comments as well as news from said sector. This tool comes in handy when you are trying to quickly grasp the overall market trends  and identify which sectors or stocks are outperforming or underperforming . You’ll also be able to customise your settings such as sorting by market cap, volume, or turnover, and adjusting the number of sectors displayed, allowing for a tailored analysis that matches your investment strategy. Moomoo Features 2: Market Monitor The market monitor is a real-time tool designed to help you keep track of unusual activities across all stocks in the markets.  The tool identifies and alerts you to unusual trading volumes and price movements, leveraging filters like market region, price range, and market cap range to tailor the monitoring process to your specific interests or investment strategies. By using this feature, you’ll be able to stay ahead of market movements  by tracking unusual stock activities in real-time. For instance, by identifying stocks with unusual trading volumes and price changes, you might be able to spot potential opportunities or risks early. So, whether you’re looking to capitalize on short-term market fluctuations or want to understand broader market trends, this tool will prove to be very valuable. Moomoo Features 3: Industrial Chain The industrial chain feature provides a comprehensive overview of the various stages, companies, and associated stocks within specific industries , aiding in the detailed analysis of the production and distribution processes.  This tool offers insights into the upstream, midstream, and downstream sectors, alongside a streamlined process for informed stock selection by categorizing stocks based on their industry segment . For instance, in the electric vehicle (EV) sector, it highlights the complete chain from raw material suppliers to manufacturers like Tesla , which dominates battery pack production. This feature not only aids in identifying investment opportunities and risks, especially in scenarios like fluctuating raw material costs but also promotes strategic portfolio diversification  by encouraging investments across different parts of the industrial chain. Moomoo Features 4: Institutional Tracker The institutional tracker is a tool designed to monitor and display the investment activities of established institutional investors .  This feature provides you with  insights into the quarterly position reports of these institutions , showcasing data such as the market value of holdings, changes in holdings, the number of stocks held, and changes in the number of stocks held. It offers a comprehensive overview,  industry distribution of holdings , and a detailed list of holdings for each institution , allowing you to discern the investing logic, trends, and strategies of these major players in the market. The information you’ll get from this tool, helps you understand the strategic moves of institutional investors  and can guide you in aligning your investment strategies with market trends, identifying potential investment opportunities, and avoiding sectors or stocks that are being heavily sold off. Moreover, it offers  clues about market sentiment and potential future movements , enabling more strategic portfolio management. Moomoo Features 5: Investment Themes Just as the name suggests, the investment themes feature offers a curated insight into specific industries, interests, or institutions , providing you with a comprehensive overview that includes charts, company lists, shared comments, and relevant news related to the chosen theme. This tool is particularly useful for investors who are just starting out, as it simplifies the complex world of investing into more digestible, themed segments . New investors can benefit from the structured approach to understanding market dynamics, identifying trends within specific industries or interests, and gaining insights from the shared experiences and strategies of more seasoned investors. Moomoo Features 6: Trend Projection The trend projection tool is designed to enhance the efficiency of analyzing candlestick charts by enabling you to quickly find stocks with candlestick patterns similar to a target stock  and makes it easier to predict what might happen next with the stock you're interested in.  The way it works is that by comparing the patterns and trends of two candlestick charts through a specific algorithm, the tool calculates their similarity and offers forecasts on the future trend of the target stock based on the probability distribution obtained from historical trends of other stocks with similar patterns. This provides a solid foundation for speculating on future stock movements (if that’s what you’re into), making it a valuable tool for those looking to stay ahead in fast-moving markets. Usually, in order to get the information this tool offers, it takes a lot of time, manual labour and advanced knowledge of technical analysis. So, although this feature may be a bit of a stretch for beginner investors to use, it’s definitely one that seasoned investors who rely heavily on technical analysis will appreciate. Moomoo Features 7: In-Depth Insights Into A Company So far, I’ve been explaining some of the key tools that moomoo offer however, there’s an overarching feature that I’ve yet to mention – company analysis . Typically, when you’re using an investment platform, you’ll be able to get some  information on the specific company you’re planning to invest in like its share price movement and capital flow. However, Moomoo’s company analysis goes way beyond that. You’ll be able to get an in-depth insight into a company including the company’s valuation, market distribution, revenue breakdown, income statement, cash flows, shareholders, and insider activity to name a few. Generally speaking, everything you can find on a company’s financial report, you’ll be able to find in Moomoo’s company analysis. Moomoo Features 8: Comments and News Section Similar to the company analysis, the comments and news section is also an overarching feature that can be used in addition to the six tools mentioned above. For the comments section, it sort of works like X (previously known as Twitter) whereby, moomoo users can share their opinion or investment strategies with other users. Here’s the catch, since any user can comment their thoughts, it might not be the best feature to use if you want to make an informed investment decision. Perhaps using it to get a better understanding of market sentiment would be smarter.  As for the news section, depending on how you come across it, it might provide you with news on a specific company, industry or even investment theme. And of course, the news sources are credible and reliable, mostly coming from new portals like Yahoo Finance , Wall Street Journal  and Bloomberg . Moomoo Features 9: Learn More About Investing I think a common obstacle when it comes to starting one’s investment journey is that people don’t know where to begin and there’s too much information out there that it can feel very overwhelming, very quickly. Knowing this, the moomoo app offers a tab where you can learn more about investing. There are articles on top-performing stocks, beginner guides and even courses on technical analysis and the overall economy. It’s really like Investment 101 lah! Moomoo Features 10: Paper Trade  Along that same note of learning more about investing, moomoo also offers a feature called Paper Trade. This feature allows you to engage in simulated market trading without risking actual money.  Think of it as a practical lesson in addition to the theoretical one. This tool uses real market data to enable new and experienced traders, to practice trading, test out investment strategies, and familiarise themselves with various trading scenarios . Through paper trading, you can track the performance of your hypothetical investments, see the potential outcomes, and learn from the experience without the financial consequences of real trading. It’s worth noting that while paper trading offers a safe environment to learn and experiment, the emotional and psychological pressures of real trading can differ  significantly. Therefore, while paper trading is an excellent way to build foundational knowledge and skills, transitioning to real trading should be approached with caution. Step-by-step Guide: Moomoo Malaysia Account Opening Usually, with an investment platform, it takes quite a while to open an account because there’s an endless number of questions you need to answer and fill in. But with Moomoo Malaysia , it takes less than 5 minutes. Here’s how you can do it. 1. Fill in your Personal Details Click here  and start filling out your personal details like your full name, gender, marital status, birthday and so on. 2. Verify your identification You’ll be required to upload a picture of your identification card (IC) for both front and back. And as usual, make sure it’s clear, and doesn’t have any glares. 3. Provide your Residential Address Fill in your address and confirm if it’s the same address you’re currently residing in; otherwise, include your residing address as well. 4. Fill in your Tax Information Most of the questions should already be answered based on your personal details so you’ll only need to fill in your Tax Identification Number (TIN). It’ll look something like this: IG 12345678912. 5. Provide other information Some of the information you’ll be asked to provide here includes your employment status and financial information like your annual income, total assets, investment objective and period. 6. Complete your eKYC, verify your phone number and agree to the Customer’s Declaration Carry out your electronic Know-Your-Customer (e-KYC) which personally took me less than 30 seconds to do. Then, verify your phone number with the TAC Moomoo sends you. Finally, agree to the Customer’s Declaration. In just six simple steps, your moomoo Malaysia account should be up and running within 1-3 business days. Moomoo Malaysia Review: My Honest Opinion  I've been using moomoo for nearly a year now, and honestly, I find myself consistently reaching for this trading app over the others I have on my phone. Let me explain why. Starting with its features, unlike many other investment platforms, moomoo offers an  extensive range of tools , and what's even better is that they're all available for free! Typically, other trading apps charge additional fees for more advanced features, but with moomoo, I’m glad that that's not the case. Personally, I’m a huge fan of the heat map feature because it offers a visual representation of the overall sector performance, allowing me to quickly identify trends. I also really like the institutional tracker as it is quite interesting to me to see the investment activities of major players in the market. Moreover, I commend moomoo's commitment to educating investors . Their "Learn" and "Paper Trade" sections are particularly helpful for both beginners and pros, offering articles, guides, and simulated trading experiences to hone your skills without risking real money. Plus, the sense of community  in the comments and news section is great for staying in the loop and sharing insights with fellow traders. Now, when it comes to the UI/UX of the app, if you've explored different investment platforms, you may have encountered some that aren't very user-friendly and can be quite confusing. However, my experience with moomoo has been the opposite. I find it incredibly intuitive and easy to navigate , allowing me to access its tools and features effortlessly. The layout is clean and well-organised , making it a breeze to find what I need without any unnecessary clutter.  Overall, my journey with moomoo has been pretty great over the past year. It definitely stands out as a top-notch investment platform, especially for those who appreciate a balance between advanced trading tools and educational support . So, whether you're a beginner looking to dip your toes into the world of investing or a seasoned trader searching for an all-in-one solution, Moomoo could very well be the super app you've been looking for. If this article was a little too lengthy for you, I also made a video reviewing the moomoo app. You can check it out here . Disclaimer This is not an investment advice. All content produced is solely for education and entertainment purposes only. Please consult your financial advisor before making any investment decision. All views expressed in the article are the independent opinions of the author, which are not necessarily shared by Futu Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. ("Moomoo Malaysia"). No content shall be considered financial advice or recommendation. Moomoo Malaysia links are included in this post, through which referrals are made and I may receive certain commissions. Please contact Moomoo Malaysia for more information. Subscribe to our financial newsletter  for the latest news, insights, and advice on personal finance, investing, and more. With every email, you’ll gather the confidence and knowledge to make informed decisions to achieve your financial goals.