The Straits Times Podcasts S2E53: How much cash is 'enough' and how to invest the rest? An investment expert breaks it down
Oct 5, 2026
Brian Lowe, an investment professional with KGI and a finance educator, explores the role of liquidity in building wealth. He discusses emergency reserves, cash versus accessible investments, and how age, job stability and risk tolerance shape portfolios. He also covers investing for BTO goals, CPF and retirement planning, speculation versus investing, and balancing financial growth with peace of mind.
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Cash Liquidity And Reserves Are Different
- Cash is an asset, liquidity is the ability to convert assets quickly, and emergency reserves describe a purpose.
- A stable government job may need one to two months of essential expenses, while variable work may require three to six.
Emergency Funds Depend On Personal Risks
- Emergency funds should reflect foreseeable personal risks rather than an arbitrary savings target.
- Insurance and coverage for aging parents can reduce the amount needed for health-related emergencies.
Cash Alone Cannot Make A Portfolio Liquid
- A portfolio can contain cash yet remain effectively illiquid if most wealth sits in property.
- Brian Lowe contrasts this with bonds and equities, which can be sold or rebalanced more easily.