Bitcoin in 2025: What Malaysian Investors Need to Know

Bitcoin has once again captured global attention, with prices surging and institutional interest at an all-time high. For Malaysian investors, this raises an important question—should you consider Bitcoin as part of your investment portfolio? In this post, we’ll break down the latest developments, risks, and opportunities for investing in Bitcoin, tailored specifically for Malaysian investors.

1. Bitcoin’s Latest Developments: What’s Driving the Surge?

Bitcoin’s price fluctuations are nothing new, but the recent rally has been fueled by several key factors:

✔ Bitcoin ETFs Gaining Global Adoption
The approval of Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) in the U.S. and other countries has made it easier for institutional investors to buy Bitcoin. This has led to increased demand and price appreciation.

✔ Bitcoin Halving in 2024
Bitcoin’s next halving event (where miner rewards are reduced) took place in April 2024, cutting the new Bitcoin supply in half. Historically, this has led to a price surge in the following months.

✔ Growing Corporate Adoption
Companies like Tesla, MicroStrategy have started accumulating Bitcoin as part of their balance sheets. This legitimizes Bitcoin as a store of value.

✔ Malaysian Regulations Becoming More Favorable
The Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) has regulated cryptocurrency exchanges like Luno, making it easier and safer for Malaysians to buy, sell, and hold Bitcoin.

2. Is Bitcoin a Good Investment for Malaysians?

Bitcoin is often compared to gold, as both are scarce and act as a hedge against inflation. But does Bitcoin make sense as part of a Malaysian investor’s portfolio?

✅ Hedge Against Inflation: With Malaysia’s inflation rates fluctuating, Bitcoin offers a decentralized store of value.

✅ Portfolio Diversification: Bitcoin’s low correlation with traditional assets makes it an excellent way to diversify investments.

✅ Potential for High Returns: Bitcoin has historically outperformed many asset classes, with an average annualized return of over 200% in the last decade.

However, there are risks, too:

❌ High Volatility: Bitcoin’s price can fluctuate by double-digit percentages in a single day.

❌ Regulatory Uncertainty: While Malaysia’s stance on crypto is clear, other governments could impose stricter regulations in the future.

❌ Security Risks: Holding Bitcoin requires strong security measures to prevent hacking or loss of private keys.

3. How Malaysians Can Invest in Bitcoin

If you’re interested in Bitcoin, here are some ways you can invest safely in Malaysia:

1️⃣ Regulated Crypto Exchanges – Platforms like Luno are registered with the Securities Commission Malaysia, ensuring a secure way to buy and sell Bitcoin.

2️⃣ Bitcoin ETFs – While not yet available in Malaysia, international ETFs provide indirect exposure to Bitcoin without the need to hold the asset yourself.

3️⃣ P2P Trading & OTC Desks – Peer-to-peer (P2P) platforms offer alternative ways to buy Bitcoin, often with lower fees.

4. Bitcoin and Malaysia’s Financial Future

Bitcoin adoption in Malaysia is growing. Local fintech startups are exploring blockchain solutions, and more merchants are accepting Bitcoin as a form of payment. If this trend continues, we could see Bitcoin play a bigger role in the country’s financial landscape.

While Bitcoin remains speculative, it offers an exciting opportunity for Malaysian investors who understand the risks and rewards. Whether you're investing for retirement, portfolio diversification, or long-term wealth building, Bitcoin can be an asset worth considering.

Get Started with Bitcoin – Bonus for New Investors!

If you’re looking to start your Bitcoin investment journey, sign up on Luno using my promo code and get free Bitcoin upon your first deposit!

If you haven’t signed up for Luno yet, now’s the perfect time! New users can claim RM75 in free Bitcoin after their first trade of at least RM250.

What makes this bonus so special? That RM75 is 30% of your initial investment 🤯—a significant boost to start your crypto journey. It’s not just an incentive but a solid introduction to how much potential crypto investing can have!

Here’s how you can claim your bonus:

1. Download the Luno app from the App Store or Google Play.
2. Complete your account verification.
3. Enter my referral code: 4FARC8.
4. Deposit at least RM250 and make your first trade.
5. Enjoy RM75 in Bitcoin, credited to your account!

Disclaimer: This is not financial advice. Investing in Bitcoin involves risk, and you should always conduct your own research before making investment decisions

Real-Life Investment Success Stories: Lessons from Actual Investors

Investing can feel overwhelming, but many people have built wealth through smart financial decisions. Real-life success stories remind us that with patience, strategy, and discipline, anyone can grow their financial future.

In this post, we’ll explore real investors, from global figures like Warren Buffett to Malaysians who’ve succeeded in stocks, property, and other investments.

1. Warren Buffett – The Long-Term Stock Investor

✅ Background: Buffett, one of the world’s richest men, started investing as a teenager and built Berkshire Hathaway into a financial empire.

✅ Key Strategy: Value investing—buying stocks at a discounted price and holding them for decades.

✅ Biggest Win:

• In 1965, he bought Coca-Cola shares; today, they’ve grown over 10,000% and provide millions in dividends.
• His Apple investment in 2016 turned $35 billion into over $100 billion in value.

✅ Lesson for Malaysians:

• Invest in strong companies with long-term potential.
• Don’t panic during market crashes—Buffett buys more stocks when prices drop.

📌 Malaysian Perspective: Value investing works in Bursa Malaysia too! Stocks like Public Bank and Nestlé Malaysia have shown steady long-term growth.

📌 Disclaimer: This is not a buy recommendation. Always do your own research before investing.

2. Tan Sri Teh Hong Piow – The Banking Visionary (Public Bank Founder)

✅ Background: The late Teh Hong Piow founded Public Bank in 1966 with just RM20 million capital.

✅ Key Strategy:

• Focused on conservative lending and steady business expansion.
• Avoided risky loans that caused financial crises for other banks.

✅ Biggest Win:

• A Public Bank RM1,000 investment in 1970 would be worth over RM2 million today.
• The stock consistently pays dividends, making it a favorite among Malaysian investors.

✅ Lesson for Malaysians:

• Banking stocks can provide long-term stability.
• Dividend investing can fund retirement expenses.

📌 Investor Tip: Many EPF and mutual funds invest heavily in Public Bank due to its track record.

📌 Disclaimer: This is not a buy recommendation. Always do your own research before investing.

3. Peter Lim – The Malaysian Billionaire Who Bet on Healthcare

✅ Background: Peter Lim, a Malaysian-born investor in Singapore, made billions through stock investing before shifting to healthcare and real estate.

✅ Key Strategy:

• Invested in Wilmar International (palm oil giant) early and sold his stake for over S$1.5 billion in 2010.
• Shifted to healthcare investments, betting on long-term demand for medical services.

✅ Biggest Win:

• His healthcare group, Thomson Medical, is now a leading hospital network in Asia.
• Owns stakes in various real estate and sports franchises, including Valencia CF (Spain).

✅ Lesson for Malaysians:

• Diversifying investments into different industries can be a smart move.
• Long-term trends like healthcare and technology offer great investment potential.

📌 Malaysian Perspective: Healthcare stocks like IHH Healthcare and KPJ Healthcare are seeing steady growth.

📌 Disclaimer: This is not a buy recommendation. Always do your own research before investing.

4. Tony Fernandes – The Budget Airline Disruptor

✅ Background: Tony Fernandes took over a failing airline (AirAsia) in 2001 and turned it into Asia’s biggest budget airline.

✅ Key Strategy:

• Low-cost, high-volume model—offering cheap tickets but making profits through add-ons and operational efficiency.
• Expanded aggressively into new markets despite industry challenges.

✅ Biggest Win:

• AirAsia’s stock grew nearly 2,000% from its early IPO price.
• Expanded into logistics, digital businesses, and financial services.

✅ Lesson for Malaysians:

• Investing in disruptive businesses can lead to high growth.
• Look for companies with strong leadership and a clear strategy.

📌 Investor Tip: The airline industry is cyclical—meaning stock prices can rise and fall depending on economic conditions.

📌 Disclaimer: This is not a buy recommendation. Always do your own research before investing.

5. Philip Fisher – The Growth Stock Expert

✅ Background: Philip Fisher, a famous American investor, focused on growth investing—finding companies with high innovation potential.

✅ Key Strategy:

• Invested in companies with strong R&D (Research & Development).
• Focused on future trends, not just past performance.

✅ Biggest Win:

• Invested in Texas Instruments and Motorola early—turning small investments into millions over decades.

✅ Lesson for Malaysians:

• Consider investing in tech stocks or growth industries like semiconductors, AI, and automation.
• Look at companies with high R&D spending (e.g., Pentamaster, Greatech in Malaysia).

📌 Investor Tip: The tech sector requires patience—short-term fluctuations are common, but long-term gains can be massive.

📌 Disclaimer: This is not a buy recommendation. Always do your own research before investing.

Final Thoughts: What We Can Learn from These Investors

📌 Patience is key – All successful investors hold stocks for years or decades.

📌 Diversification matters – Real estate, stocks, and businesses all play a role in building long-term wealth.

📌 Understanding trends helps – Investing in emerging industries (tech, healthcare, finance) can bring higher returns.

📌 Dividends can fund retirement – Investing in strong dividend stocks helps generate passive income.

💡 Whether you’re investing in stocks, real estate, or businesses, these stories prove that success is possible with the right strategy.

Financial Lessons from Warren Buffett: How Malaysians Can Apply Them

Warren Buffett, the "Oracle of Omaha," is one of the most successful investors of all time. With a net worth exceeding $100 billion, his investment philosophy is widely studied and admired. But what makes Buffett truly remarkable isn’t just his wealth—it’s the simplicity and timelessness of his financial wisdom.

Many of Buffett’s principles can be applied not only by stock market investors but also by everyday Malaysians looking to build financial security. Whether you’re saving for retirement, investing in stocks, or just managing personal finances, Buffett’s strategies offer valuable guidance.

Let’s explore some of his key financial lessons and how they can be adapted to the Malaysian context.

1. Spend Wisely and Live Below Your Means

Buffett’s Lesson:

Despite being a billionaire, Buffett still lives in the same house he bought in 1958 for $31,500. He avoids unnecessary luxury and focuses on value rather than prestige.

How Malaysians Can Apply This:

Many Malaysians fall into the trap of lifestyle inflation—spending more as their income increases. From upgrading cars to buying luxury items on credit, these choices can strain long-term financial health.

To apply Buffett’s principle:

• Stick to a budget and track your expenses.
• Avoid unnecessary debt—credit cards and personal loans should be used responsibly.
• Don’t overspend on a car. Cars in Malaysia are expensive, and taking a long-term loan for a depreciating asset isn’t ideal. Consider second-hand cars or more affordable options.

2. Invest for the Long Term

Buffett’s Lesson:

Buffett believes in buying great companies and holding them forever. He avoids short-term speculation and market timing.

How Malaysians Can Apply This:

• If you invest in stocks, focus on fundamentally strong companies with consistent earnings and a history of paying dividends.
• Consider Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) if you’re not confident in stock picking.
• Avoid frequent buying and selling—long-term investing benefits from compounding returns.

A good example is Public Bank Berhad (PBBANK)—one of Malaysia’s most stable and well-managed banks. Those who invested in it many years ago and held onto their shares have seen significant returns over time.

3. The Power of Compound Interest

Buffett’s Lesson:

Buffett famously said, "My wealth has come from a combination of living in America, some lucky genes, and compound interest."

How Malaysians Can Apply This:

• Start investing as early as possible to maximize compounding.
• If you’re saving for retirement, take advantage of EPF (Employees Provident Fund) and consider additional investments like PRS (Private Retirement Scheme).
• A simple example:
  • If you invest RM1,000 per month with an average return of 7% per year, in 30 years, you will have RM1.2 million—most of it from compound growth!

4. Never Invest in Something You Don’t Understand

Buffett’s Lesson:

Buffett avoids complex investments and only invests in businesses he fully understands.

How Malaysians Can Apply This:

• Don’t invest in stocks, cryptocurrencies, or forex just because others are doing it. Always do your own research.
• If an investment sounds “too good to be true” (e.g., guaranteed high returns), it’s likely a scam.
• Many Malaysians have lost money in Ponzi schemes like JJ Poor to Rich (JJPTR). Buffett’s rule? Avoid what you don’t understand.

5. Keep Cash Reserves for Opportunities

Buffett’s Lesson:

Buffett always has billions in cash ready to take advantage of market downturns.

How Malaysians Can Apply This:

• Always maintain an emergency fund (at least 6 months of expenses).
• Keep some cash reserves so you can invest when opportunities arise (e.g., when stock markets dip).
• In 2020, during the pandemic, Malaysia’s stock market crashed, and many undervalued stocks became attractive. Those who had spare cash could buy at a discount and enjoy great returns later.

6. Focus on Increasing Your Income

Buffett’s Lesson:

Buffett believes in improving your skills and investing in yourself to increase earning potential.

How Malaysians Can Apply This:

• If you’re in a job, upskill and look for higher-paying opportunities.
• Consider starting a side hustle—online businesses, freelancing, or passive income sources.
• Malaysians can explore gig economy jobs like Grab, Shopee Live selling, content creation, or investing in rental properties.

7. Be Fearful When Others Are Greedy, and Greedy When Others Are Fearful

Buffett’s Lesson:

Buffett advises investing when markets are down and avoiding hype-driven speculation.

How Malaysians Can Apply This:

• During stock market downturns, don’t panic sell—consider buying instead.
• Avoid following trends blindly—during the Bitcoin hype of 2021, many bought at all-time highs and later suffered losses.
• Think long-term: Instead of chasing hot stocks, look for companies that can survive and grow over decades.

Final Thoughts

Warren Buffett’s principles are timeless and simple:
✔ Live below your means
✔ Invest in what you understand
✔ Take advantage of compounding
✔ Keep cash reserves
✔ Grow your income

By applying these lessons, Malaysians can build wealth steadily and achieve financial security.

Dividend Investing: A Smart Strategy for Retirement in Malaysia

As we journey through life, one goal becomes increasingly important: ensuring financial stability during retirement. With rising living costs and longer lifespans, planning for retirement has become more crucial than ever. Among the various strategies for building retirement wealth, dividend investing stands out as a reliable and sustainable option, especially for Malaysians looking to balance income generation with capital preservation.

This post explores what dividend investing is, how it works, and why it can be an excellent approach for funding retirement expenses. We’ll also dive into its unique advantages for Malaysians and how you can get started today.

What is Dividend Investing?

Dividend investing focuses on building a portfolio of stocks that pay regular dividends—cash payments distributed to shareholders, usually from a company's profits. These payouts can provide a steady stream of passive income, which can be reinvested or used to cover daily expenses.

Unlike growth investing, which emphasizes capital appreciation, dividend investing prioritizes income generation while maintaining long-term growth potential. It’s particularly attractive for retirees or those nearing retirement who seek predictable cash flow.

Why Dividend Investing Works for Retirement

1. Steady Income Stream

Dividends provide a consistent income source, allowing retirees to cover essential expenses without selling their investments. This approach ensures that your portfolio continues to grow while meeting your financial needs.

2. Inflation Protection

Dividend-paying companies often increase their payouts over time. For example, if you invest in well-established companies with a history of dividend growth, your income stream can keep pace with or even outstrip inflation.

3. Capital Preservation

High-quality dividend-paying stocks, especially those from blue-chip companies, tend to be more stable during market downturns. This stability helps protect your retirement nest egg while still generating income.

4. Tax Efficiency in Malaysia

In Malaysia, dividends are typically tax-exempt for individual investors. This means you get to enjoy the full payout without worrying about additional taxes—an added bonus for building wealth efficiently.

5. Compounding Benefits

Reinvesting your dividends can accelerate the growth of your portfolio through compounding. This is especially beneficial during the years leading up to retirement when you may not need the income immediately.

Dividend Investing in Malaysia

Malaysia offers a conducive environment for dividend investing, thanks to a range of dividend-friendly companies and favorable tax policies. Here’s why this approach is particularly beneficial for Malaysians:

A Wealth of High-Dividend Stocks

Malaysia is home to numerous companies with a strong history of paying dividends, particularly in sectors like:

• Banking (e.g., Maybank, Public Bank)
• Telecommunications (e.g., Maxis, Digi)
• Utilities (e.g., Tenaga Nasional)
• Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)

These sectors are known for their stability and consistent payouts, making them ideal for dividend-focused portfolios.

Shariah-Compliant Options

For Muslim investors, Malaysia’s vibrant market for Shariah-compliant stocks provides ample opportunities to build a dividend-paying portfolio that aligns with Islamic principles.

Dividend Investing for Retirement Expenses

Here’s an example of how dividend investing can help cover retirement expenses:

Scenario:

• Retirement Age: 60
• Monthly Expenses: RM4,000
• Annual Expenses: RM48,000

To generate this income solely from dividends:

• Assume an average dividend yield of 5%.
• You would need a portfolio worth RM960,000 to produce RM48,000 annually.

How to Achieve This:

1. Start Early
   Begin investing as soon as possible to leverage the power of compounding.

2. Focus on Dividend Growth Stocks
   Companies that consistently increase their dividends offer protection against inflation.

3. Reinvest Dividends
   Use dividend reinvestment plans (DRIPs) to buy more shares and grow your portfolio faster.

4. Diversify
   Spread your investments across different sectors to reduce risk and ensure a stable income stream.

Realistic Expectations and Challenges

While dividend investing is a robust strategy, it’s important to approach it with realistic expectations.

1. Market Volatility
   Stock prices can fluctuate, even for dividend-paying companies. A diversified portfolio can mitigate this risk.

2. Dividend Cuts
   Companies may reduce or eliminate dividends during economic downturns. Researching the company’s financial health and payout history is essential.

3. Achieving the Target Portfolio
   Accumulating a portfolio large enough to generate sufficient income requires time, discipline, and consistent contributions.

Getting Started with Dividend Investing

Here’s how you can begin building your dividend-focused portfolio:

1. Set Clear Goals
   Determine your desired monthly or annual income and calculate the portfolio size needed to achieve it.

2. Research Stocks
   Look for companies with:

   • A strong history of paying and increasing dividends.
   • Stable earnings and manageable debt levels.
   • Attractive dividend yields (but beware of excessively high yields).

3. Choose the Right Platform
   Use local or global brokerage platforms that offer access to dividend-paying stocks and ETFs. 

4. Monitor and Rebalance
   Regularly review your portfolio to ensure it aligns with your goals. Rebalance as needed to maintain diversification.

Famous Quotes on Wealth and Investing

To end on a thoughtful note, here are some timeless words of wisdom to inspire your financial journey:

• “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” – Benjamin Franklin
• “Do not save what is left after spending, but spend what is left after saving.” – Warren Buffett
• “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.” – Chinese Proverb

A Final Word

Dividend investing offers a sustainable and reliable approach to funding retirement expenses. For Malaysians, the combination of dividend-friendly stocks, tax advantages, and a stable economy makes this strategy even more compelling.

As you embark on this journey, remember that consistency and patience are key. Start small, stay disciplined, and let time and compounding work their magic.

Here’s wishing you financial success and a secure retirement ahead. Let’s take the first step today toward building a future you can enjoy.

Luno Bundles: The Smarter Way to Invest in Cryptocurrency in Malaysia

 

Cryptocurrency is no longer just about buying Bitcoin. With the ever-changing landscape of the digital asset market, the ability to manage a diversified portfolio is now a must for investors. To make this process easier, Luno Malaysia has launched an innovative feature called Luno Bundles, offering Malaysians a seamless way to invest in multiple cryptocurrencies while keeping things simple.

What Are Luno Bundles?

Luno Bundles is a new offering created in collaboration with CoinDesk Indices, a leading provider of digital asset market indexes. This feature enables investors to manage a portfolio of 5-10 top cryptocurrencies by market capitalization, selected based on the CoinDesk Large Cap Select Index (DLCS).

Key benefits of Luno Bundles include:

• Top Performers Prioritized: The bundle is weighted towards the highest-performing assets to provide an optimal market representation.
• Quarterly Rebalancing: Every three months, the portfolio is rebalanced to reflect changes in the DLCS index, ensuring that your investment adapts to market dynamics.
• Streamlined Monitoring: You can track your portfolio's performance directly in the Luno app for convenience and transparency.

This thoughtful design makes Luno Bundles ideal for those who want to diversify their crypto investments without the complexity of managing individual assets.

Why Luno Bundles Could Be Right for You

1. Ease of Access: Investing in Luno Bundles is as simple as a few taps on your phone. You can "bundle" or "unbundle" your portfolio at any time, providing maximum flexibility.
2. Broad Exposure: Instead of focusing on a single cryptocurrency, Luno Bundles offer exposure to the broader crypto market. This reduces risk and increases potential returns.
3. Built-In Security: As a Securities Commission Malaysia-regulated exchange, Luno ensures your investments are safe and compliant with local regulations.
4. Designed for All Investors: Whether you’re new to cryptocurrency or a seasoned trader, Luno Bundles is accessible to everyone with any investment amount.

Don’t Forget: RM75 Sign-Up Bonus!!!

If you haven’t signed up for Luno yet, now’s the perfect time! New users can claim RM75 in free Bitcoin after their first trade of at least RM250.

What makes this bonus so special? That RM75 is 30% of your initial investment 🤯—a significant boost to start your crypto journey. It’s not just an incentive but a solid introduction to how much potential crypto investing can have!

Here’s how you can claim your bonus:

1. Download the Luno app from the App Store or Google Play.
2. Complete your account verification.
3. Enter my referral code: 4FARC8.
4. Deposit at least RM250 and make your first trade.
5. Enjoy RM75 in Bitcoin, credited to your account!

A Few Investment Guidelines to Keep in Mind

Once you’ve set up your Luno account and explored Bundles, consider these general tips for investing in cryptocurrencies:

1. Diversify Your Investments: Don’t put all your funds into a single cryptocurrency. Luno Bundles is a great way to spread your risk across multiple assets.
2. Invest What You Can Afford to Lose: The crypto market is volatile, so always invest money you’re willing to risk.
3. Adopt a Long-Term Perspective: Cryptocurrencies often yield the best results over time. Avoid making decisions based on short-term price fluctuations.
4. Learn Continuously: The crypto world is always evolving, so stay updated with the latest trends and insights.

Final Thoughts

Luno Bundles is a welcome addition for investors looking to streamline their crypto journey. By combining simplicity, flexibility, and diversification, this feature ensures you have the tools to succeed in today’s dynamic digital asset market.

If you’re ready to start investing in cryptocurrencies, don’t miss out on Luno’s RM75 bonus—it’s an excellent way to begin with an extra boost.

Here’s wishing you success on your investment journey! May your path be filled with growth, opportunities, and exciting milestones. Happy investing! 🚀

Unpacking Malaysia’s Lending Rates: BLR, BR, and SBR Made Simple

 

For many Malaysians, buying a home is a dream come true. But navigating the loan application process can be daunting, especially when you're faced with acronyms like BLR, BR, and SBR. What do these terms mean, and how do they affect your home loan? Let’s break it down for you.

The Journey of Malaysia's Lending Rates

Before 2015: Base Lending Rate (BLR)

The BLR system was a straightforward reference rate introduced by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM). It applied a single formula across all banks, ensuring uniformity and predictability.

• The BLR was derived based on factors like the Statutory Reserve Requirement (SRR) and costs for banks to lend money.
• Transparency was high: consumers could easily compare rates across banks, but competition was minimal since all banks adhered to the same BLR.

For Islamic loans, the equivalent was known as the Base Financing Rate (BFR).

2015–2022: Base Rate (BR)

In 2015, BNM introduced the Base Rate (BR) to encourage competition and innovation among banks.

• Bank-Specific Formula: Each bank set its own BR based on internal factors, such as operating costs, liquidity premiums, and profit margins, while still being tied to the Overnight Policy Rate (OPR) as a benchmark.
• Consumer Benefit: Borrowers with good credit ratings often enjoyed better rates due to increased competition.
• Complexity: Comparing rates became more challenging since each bank had a unique BR.

Why It Matters: BR adjustments reflected not only OPR changes but also internal bank decisions, adding a layer of unpredictability.

August 2022 Onwards: Standardised Base Rate (SBR)

To simplify things, BNM introduced the SBR on 1st August 2022, tying it directly to the OPR.

Key Features:

1. Unified Reference Rate: All banks use the same SBR as their base. Changes in the OPR directly affect the SBR, making the system more transparent.
2. Ease of Comparison: Consumers can now easily evaluate loan packages since only the spread (reflecting bank profits and borrower risk) varies between banks.
3. Limited Scope: The SBR applies only to new floating-rate loans approved after August 2022. Existing loans remain under their original BLR or BR frameworks.

A Quick Comparison

Aspect	BLR (Pre-2015)	BR (2015–2022)	SBR (2022 Onwards)
Reference Rate	Set by BNM	Bank-determined	Pegged to OPR
Transparency	High	Moderate	High
Competitiveness	Low	High	Moderate
Ease of Comparison	Easy	Complex	Easy

How These Rates Affect You

1. For Existing Borrowers:

   • If your loan was approved before 2015, it continues under the BLR/BFR system.
   • Loans approved between 2015 and mid-2022 will follow the BR unless refinanced.

2. For New Borrowers:

   • Loans taken after August 2022 fall under the SBR framework.

3. Floating vs. Fixed Rates:

   • Floating rates fluctuate with OPR changes, while fixed rates remain stable. However, fixed loans often come with higher initial rates to account for future risks.

Practical Tips for Homebuyers

• Understand the Spread: While the SBR is standardized, each bank’s spread varies. Look for banks offering competitive spreads tailored to your risk profile.
• Monitor the OPR: The Overnight Policy Rate drives changes in the SBR. When it dips, consider refinancing to secure lower rates.
• Assess Loan Terms: Factors like lock-in periods, penalties, and tenure length can impact long-term costs.
• Insurance Matters: A Mortgage Reducing Term Assurance (MRTA) can protect you and your loved ones from unforeseen risks.

In Summary

The transition from BLR to BR and now SBR reflects Malaysia’s efforts to modernize and improve its lending systems. For borrowers, the SBR brings greater transparency and simplicity, making it easier to compare loans and make informed decisions.

Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or looking to refinance, understanding these lending rates is key to maximizing your financial potential. Speak with your banker today to explore options that work for you!

Get Started with Luno: Unlock RM75 Free Credit

A Glimpse into the Crypto World Today

The cryptocurrency market is buzzing once again, especially after Bitcoin reached a new all-time high following the recent U.S. presidential election. This surge is driven by increased institutional adoption and growing interest from mainstream investors who see digital assets as a hedge against economic uncertainty. In Malaysia, regulatory frameworks are evolving to protect investors while promoting innovation in the digital asset ecosystem.

Meanwhile, trends like the rise of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) and decentralized finance (DeFi) solutions continue to shape the market, showing the transformative potential of blockchain technology.

How to Get Started with Luno: Unlock RM75 Free Credit

If you're looking to kickstart your cryptocurrency journey in Malaysia, Luno is the perfect platform to begin with. Here’s why Luno stands out for both beginners and seasoned investors:

1. Fully Regulated and Trusted: Luno is regulated by the Securities Commission Malaysia, which means your investments are protected by industry-standard security measures. With over 10 million users globally, Luno has built a solid reputation for being reliable and secure.

2. User-Friendly Interface: Luno’s intuitive platform makes it easy to buy, sell, and manage cryptocurrencies. Whether you’re new to crypto or have some experience, Luno simplifies the process of entering the digital asset space.

3. Educational Resources for Beginners: Luno provides extensive educational content to help users understand the basics of cryptocurrency, market trends, and investment strategies. This empowers you to make informed decisions about your investments.

4. Recurring Buy Feature: Interested in automating your investments? Luno offers a Recurring Buy option, allowing you to set up automatic purchases of cryptocurrencies at regular intervals (daily, weekly, or monthly). This is perfect for adopting a dollar-cost averaging strategy, helping you build your crypto portfolio over time without the stress of market timing.

5. Exclusive Sign-Up Offer – Get RM75 Free: Here’s a special bonus to kickstart your journey! By using my referral code when you sign up, you can earn RM75 in free Bitcoin after making your first trade of at least RM250.

   How big is that RM75 bonus? To put it into perspective, it’s like getting nearly 30% of your initial investment back in free Bitcoin! Think of it as a head start on your crypto journey, giving you an extra boost to explore the market. 🌟

   How to Claim Your RM75 Bonus:

   • Step 1: Download the Luno app from the App Store or Google Play.
   • Step 2: Sign up and complete your account verification.
   • Step 3: Enter my referral code: 4FARC8.
   • Step 4: Deposit a minimum of RM250 and make your first crypto purchase.
   • Step 5: Enjoy your RM75 bonus in Bitcoin, instantly added to your account!

Crypto Investment Strategies: Tips for Navigating the Market

Now that you’re set up on Luno, let’s talk about some strategies to maximize your returns in the crypto world:

1. Do Your Own Research (DYOR): Before diving in, take the time to understand the fundamentals of a cryptocurrency project. This means researching its use case, technology, and the team behind it. A well-informed investor is a successful investor.
2. Diversify Your Portfolio: Never put all your eggs in one basket. Diversifying across different cryptocurrencies can help spread risk. Consider a mix of established coins like Bitcoin and Ethereum alongside promising altcoins.
3. Embrace Market Volatility: Cryptocurrencies are known for their dramatic price swings. Be mentally prepared for ups and downs, and avoid making rash decisions based on short-term market movements.
4. Leverage Dollar-Cost Averaging (DCA): Luno’s Recurring Buy feature is a great tool for this strategy. By investing a fixed amount regularly, you can reduce the impact of market volatility and accumulate crypto assets over time.
5. Think Long-Term: While the crypto market can offer quick gains, long-term investments often yield the best returns. Patience is key, especially when navigating this fast-paced environment.

Final Thoughts

Cryptocurrencies are opening up new avenues for financial growth, but like any investment, they come with risks. Platforms like Luno provide a secure and user-friendly way to start your crypto journey. Don’t miss out on the RM75 sign-up bonus—it’s a great incentive to dive into the world of digital assets with some extra funds to explore.

Remember, the best investment is in your financial education. Stay informed, diversify your investments, and make the most of the opportunities that the crypto space has to offer. Happy investing, and may your crypto journey be both exciting and profitable! 🚀