How a regular 9-to-5 employee earns passive income for financial independence
The 4% rule has long guided retirees on how much they can safely withdraw from their portfolio. But in 2025, with inflation, volatility, and longer lifespans, does it still work? Here’s my take – and why I prefer dividend growth investing combined with provident fund stability.
Stealth wealth is about enjoying financial independence quietly – living simply, spending wisely, and focusing on freedom instead of status symbols.
Geographic arbitrage is one of the most powerful, but often overlooked, strategies for financial independence. By earning in a strong currency and spending in a lower-cost country, you can fast-track your FI journey, enjoy a higher standard of living, and reduce the amount you actually need to retire. Here’s how it works, the benefits, and what to consider before making the move.
America’s five wealth classes range from households with less than $29,300 to those worth over $2.1 million. But wealth on paper doesn’t always equal freedom. Here’s what each class means and how you can climb the ladder toward financial independence.
If you’re in your 20s, financial independence by 50 is within reach. With strong skills, disciplined saving, and dividend investing, you can build a portfolio that covers your expenses without selling shares. Here’s a practical roadmap to create freedom and live life on your terms.
60% of Singaporeans are now living paycheck to paycheck – even in one of the world’s wealthiest cities. In this post, I break down why it’s happening, how it impacts your time and mental peace, and the exact steps you can take to escape the cycle and work towards financial independence.
Singapore dividends are tax-free and capital gains aren’t taxed. US dividends get hit with 30% withholding. So who really wins on total return? I compare two pairs I own – OCBC vs Wells Fargo, and CICT vs Realty Income using 10-year total returns, and share the surprising lessons.
While ETFs are convenient and diversified, I prefer picking my own dividend stocks for passive income. Influenced by Peter Lynch’s philosophy, I focus on businesses I understand, control my holdings, avoid expense ratios, and seek consistent payouts. Here’s why this approach works for me and the trade-offs every investor should consider.
I don’t believe in depriving myself, but I do believe in spending intentionally. Here are 10 things I avoid buying – from brand-new cars to overpriced coffee that save me thousands every year and fuel my journey to financial independence.
Since 2015, I’ve never sold a single stock from my dividend-paying portfolio – no matter how bad the headlines got. From oil prices going negative, to billion-dollar lawsuits, to dividend cuts, I held on… and even bought more when fear was highest. These are the 3 times I almost sold and why I’m so glad I didn’t.
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