Why You Probably Want to Track Your Spending
I came to America in 1997 with only $500 in my pocket. It was a grueling 20-hour flight from Manila to Philadelphia. Coming from a third-world country, I thought that was a lot of money. So, midway through the flight, I bought a $100 Swiss leather watch, which I justified …
The Power of Compounding Continues to Amaze Me
Let’s say you’ve saved Warren Buffett’s cat from falling into a ditch. Extremely grateful, he offered a reward that lets you pick between two options: Which option would you pick? Option 1 or Option 2? If you picked the first option, congratulations, you’re $3,000,000 richer: But then, you just short-changed …
Why You Probably Don’t Want to Trade Options
When the market is moving haywire, many DIY investors are tempted to be more creative with their investments. So, they resort to strategies that will likely ruin their portfolios: day trading, buying on margin, short selling, etc., instead of sticking to the proven, slow-and-steady, or buy-and-hold approach to investing. One such strategy …
Why There’s No “Bad” Time to Invest
Many newbie investors have second thoughts about investing their hard-earned money in the stock market, which is completely understandable. But some ask silly questions like, “Should I invest now or wait for the bottom?” And I’m like, “Good luck finding the bottom!” The truth is, whether you invest at the …
Why Work ‘Til You Drop When You Can Retire Early in the Philippines?
For many Americans, retiring early in the USA is a lost dream. Sure, staying within your comfort zone has certain advantages: established social connections, proximity to family and friends, and the local culture. But the cost of living— with rising housing, taxes, and healthcare costs— could potentially deplete your retirement …
Net Worth Update: Six Years Later
Once again, it’s Labor Day– the day I “brag” about the fruits of my labor. Except there’s nothing to brag about this year. Our investments have been hammered like cryogenically frozen horse meat you badly want to barbecue. As a result, our household net worth is down for the first …
Keep it Simple, Sister! KI$$ Investing for Millionaire Dummies
One reason why this blog will never achieve mainstream is I couldn’t share it with my family or friends. How could I when I’ve been blogging about the intimate details of my finances— and theirs too! I first blogged about my sister’s finances in 2017 when she had a net …
Millionaire Interview 16 by Dividend Power
I recently got interviewed by a prolific blogger who runs the Dividend Power blog where he conducts a series of millionaire interviews. It’s an honor to be #16 on his list! The article originally appeared on Dividend Power and was republished with permission. Millionaire interview 16 is with the author of …
How to Survive and Thrive from a Bear Market Attack
Imagine you’re hiking in the Alaskan wilderness with a friend, and not far away, you spot two little cubs heading toward you both. Your heart starts pounding, wondering where momma bear is until you get startled by the sight of an angry grizzly ready to pounce the two of you …
Can You Retire from the U.S. Military as a Millionaire?
Retiring as a millionaire is probably the last thing you’d think about when joining the military. To serve the country is on top of the list. Besides, any financial gain you get from the government wouldn’t offset the sacrifices you have to endure: Rigorous training (10-13 week boot camps in …