I don’t want pity. Pity is more painful than many other emotions that can be placed upon you, more than hostility, awe, envy, fear and repulsion.
Retirement? Singaporeans work long hours to try to afford retirement, but for many, this is just a dream, and some are even working in their twilight years.
Singaporeans’ long-term saving plans are being jeopardized by inflation hovering near the highest level in more than a decade, insufficient wage growth, accelerating housing costs and other financial burdens from living in a city recently listed as the world’s most expensive alongside New York.
The result is nearly 60% of Singaporeans say they are not on track with their retirement plans, according to a report by Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp. in November.
There are several reasons why some Singaporeans may be unable to retire:
- High cost of living: Singapore is known for its high cost of living, which can make it difficult for retirees to make ends meet. The cost of housing, healthcare, and daily expenses can be a significant burden on retirees, especially those with limited savings.
- Inadequate retirement savings: Many Singaporeans may not have saved enough for retirement due to a variety of reasons, such as a lack of financial planning, low income, or financial setbacks. The Central Provident Fund (CPF) is the main source of retirement savings for most Singaporeans, but some may have withdrawn their funds early or used them for other purposes. (like buying a HDB Flat)
- Longer life expectancy: Singaporeans are living longer, which means they need more savings to support themselves in retirement. With increasing life expectancy, the cost of healthcare and long-term care may also become more significant.
- Inability to find work: Some Singaporeans may be unable to find work in their later years due to age discrimination or health issues, making it difficult to supplement their retirement income.
- Family responsibilities: Some Singaporeans may have to support their children or elderly parents financially, which can put a strain on their retirement savings.
These factors can make it challenging for some Singaporeans to retire comfortably, and may require them to…
