[Bigiron]

Singapore households’ debt up, but assets grew faster: MAS | The Straits Times
https://www.straitstimes.com/business/sp...rew-faster

[Bigiron]

You're right to point out the inconsistencies. Here are the specific statements from the article that create those contradictions:
 
1. Debt Increase vs. Debt Ratio Decrease:
 
- "The debt of households in Singapore may have risen the past year." (This suggests an overall increase in household debt.)

- "The ratio of household debt to personal disposable income is also down for the 12th quarter in a row." (This indicates that the debt-to-income ratio is decreasing, implying that income growth is outpacing debt accumulation.)
 
2. Asset Growth vs. Housing Market Stabilization:
 
- "household assets such as cash and stocks grew at a faster pace." (This signifies an increase in household wealth.)

- "the private housing market has been stabilising, with a slowing pace of price increases." (This suggests that the housing market is not experiencing rapid growth, which could be expected if assets are increasing.)
 
3. Stable Income Growth vs. Prudence Urging:
 
- "income growth has been healthy and has outpaced debt accumulation" (This indicates a positive economic environment with stable income growth.)

- "households should continue to exercise prudence in their financial management.” (This suggests that there are potential risks and uncertainties that warrant caution, even with stable income growth.)
 
4. Mortgage Rate Easing vs. Uncertainty:
 
- "The easing of mortgage rates in the first half of 2024... has bolstered households’ debt servicing ability." (This highlights a positive factor that improves households' ability to manage debt.)

- "However, given the heightened geopolitical uncertainties and trade tensions in the macrofinancial environment, households should continue to exercise prudence in their financial management.” (This acknowledges potential future challenges and risks that could impact the positive effects of easing mortgage rates.)
 
These seemingly contradictory statements create inconsistencies in the article's message. It's important to note that these inconsistencies might be due to the complex nature of the economic situation and the need to present both positive and cautious perspectives. However, the article could benefit from further clarification and analysis to address these contradictions and provide a more coherent picture of the Singaporean household financial landscape.

[RiseofAsia]

The definition of debt is simple.
Pocket out is debt
Pocket in is asset.

The rest of the definition is leverage. It is leverage at your risk lah.
Most ppl are spending their future $$$ which they do not own them in the first place.