[15] tanko: investment choices discussed on 9 Oct

Hi Keng Oon,

Just a summary of some investment ideas discussed, to be published on my personal blog.

Real estate — my exposure and concentration is rather high. Out of my entire investment portfolio, more than 70% is in this sector, including 200k in Manila, and 30k in Germany+Brazil.

Bonds — offers something close to compound return, esp at the low-yield end. I have about 70k – 90k in bonds.

** High yield bonds — most of my bonds are high yield bonds. Price has dropped 15% – 30% since 2013, so I feel I should buy more, but my existing holding is at a loss, so I am hesitant and cautious.

Equities — I have 30k – 60k invested. I feel now the valuation has improved so I should invest more.

** US equities — is the strongest stock market over long term. I have relatively low exposure now (perhaps 5k – 10k). Should consider a top-up like 10k. However, US stocks are possibly overvalued. Again, I’m hesitant.

** Index tracking ETF — is new to me but I do hope to overcome the initial resistance and give it a try. However the lot size is uncomfortable to me. Luckily I found an index tracking fund with $0 commission and basically no minimum commitment.

Gold — very cautious. I would only consider 1 ounce

Without converting my USD, My SGD may have very little left after the next 90k investment in the real estate deals, as planned. Therefore, I will consider only small investments at the moment.