Endowus Chief Client Officer So Sin Ting discussed how emotional biases, such as present bias and inertia, can delay retirement planning, leading to many Singaporeans postponing their investment decisions. To stay on track, she advised automating monthly contributions from bank, CPF, or SRS accounts and selecting globally diversified portfolios managed by professionals to simplify long-term investing and reduce decision fatigue.

Endowus CIO Hugh Chung explained how CPF contributions and allocations shift across life stages to support retirement, healthcare, and housing needs. He highlighted key milestones such as the Retirement Account at 55 and CPF LIFE payouts at 65, while cautioning that CPF alone may not be sufficient. Hugh encouraged individuals to build personal savings alongside CPF to ensure financial security and flexibility in retirement.

As Asia expands retail access to private credit, Endowus CIO Hugh Chung noted key barriers such as limited transparency remain. He projected that Singapore’s retail demand could reach S$100 billion, if 5% of household assets shift to private credit. Chung emphasised the need for investor education, highlighting the illiquid nature of such assets and the importance of a long-term investment horizon.

On the Asia Centric podcast, Endowus Head of Hong Kong Steffanie Yuen discussed the growing accessibility of private market investments for retail investors, a shift driven by technology and innovation. She highlighted both the opportunities and risks in the sector, including the potential for overinvestment, as part of the broader trend of democratising investing.

SRS deposits have been steadily rising to over $20.58 billion in 2024. Endowus Chief Client Officer, So Sin Ting, observed strong growth among the 36-45 age group amongst the company’s clients, who often belonged to the “sandwich generation”. She attributed the trend to growing financial literacy, employer support, and broader investment options available under SRS. So also noted that if the scheme is optimised further, such as extending the 10-year withdrawal period, additional safeguards may be needed to help users fully maximise their retirement savings.

With MAS considering new frameworks for retail access to private markets, Endowus CIO Hugh Chung highlighted the potential of private assets to offer diversification and reduce portfolio volatility. He noted that while these investments can enhance long-term returns, investors should adopt a diversified approach and be mindful of liquidity and fees. Chung emphasised the importance of investor education and professional guidance to help retail investors navigate these opportunities confidently and responsibly.

Hugh Chung, Endowus’ Chief Investment Officer, weighed in on the growing uncertainty around the 60/40 portfolio strategy. Traditionally seen as a balanced approach to investing, the allocation of 60% equities and 40% bonds has faced headwinds amid persistent inflation and rising geopolitical tensions. Chung noted that sticky inflation may prompt interest rate hikes, which can negatively impact bond values, while also warning that stagflation could pressure equities. With stock valuations already stretched, it is important for investors to build diversified portfolios across asset classes and geographies.

Hugh Chung, Chief Investment Advisory Officer at Endowus, shared that while private market investments can offer attractive long-term returns and diversification, retail investors need to be aware of the unique characteristics of these assets. These include longer investment horizons, less frequent liquidity, and greater complexity compared to public markets. In addition, it is important that retail investors should also seek independent financial advisers with strong credentials and aligned interests to ensure they receive high-quality, objective, and conflict-free advice. He further emphasised the importance of investor education, professional advice, and diversification across sectors and strategies to mitigate concentration and liquidity risks.

Hugh Chung, Endowus’ Chief Investment Officer, appeared on Bloomberg TV’s The Asia Trade to discuss how investors are navigating today’s uncertain macro environment. He noted that beyond equities, real assets—particularly infrastructure—can offer relative stability due to their lower sensitivity to GDP growth. Private assets continue to attract interest, driven by higher base rates and the growing availability of evergreen structures for investor access. Hugh added that taking a more constructive market view will require volatility to reduce and calmness to return.

Hugh Chung, Chief Investment Officer at Endowus, shared how the firm is redefining wealth management by combining institutional-grade investment strategies with digital innovation. Speaking at the Hubbis Independent Wealth Management Forum, he highlighted how Endowus uses technology to lower costs and improve access, especially for the underserved mass affluent segment. The platform offers curated, transparent portfolios without commissions, ensuring true alignment with client interests. Endowus has also gained traction with private market GPs, thanks to its growing scale and independent model. Chung emphasised the firm's commitment to client education, independence, and building high-integrity portfolios through a blend of tech and advisory expertise.

Hugh Chung, Chief Investment Officer at Endowus, advises investors to focus on “time in the markets” rather than attempting to time the market amid current volatility triggered by US tariff developments. He notes that reacting emotionally—such as selling off risk assets or staying out of the market—can lead to missed opportunities. Instead, he encourages a disciplined, long-term approach to investing, especially during uncertain periods.

Endowus tripled its investments in alternatives in 2024, surpassing US$350 million, with strong interest from high-net-worth clients. To meet this demand, Endowus launched Private Credit and Private Equity solutions, giving accredited investors in Singapore and professional investors in Hong Kong access to top-tier managers like Apollo, Ares, Blackstone, and Carlyle through a single, semi-liquid vehicle. These offerings are made available via a partnership with iCapital. As private markets gain traction for their diversification benefits, Endowus aims to address the accessibility and education gaps for investors seeking new sources of return.