BT Money Hacks: Are Stablecoins a Smarter Way to Hold Your Cash?
They promise stability, speed, and low-cost transfers so what’s not to like? But behind the slick branding, stablecoins are far from a sure bet.
In this episode of Money Hacks by The Business Times, host Howie Lim speaks with Amy Zhang, head of APAC at Fireblocks, and Koen Hoorelbeke, investment strategist at Saxo, to demystify what stablecoins really are and what role, if any, they should play in a typical investor’s portfolio.
Singapore’s Monetary Authority has just rolled out one of the most advanced stablecoin regulatory frameworks in the world, far ahead of peers like Hong Kong and the US. That’s fuelling optimism but also raising questions about risks, use cases, and whether stablecoins are truly as “stable” as advertised.
Why listen?
Because stable doesn’t mean safe Stablecoins can still fluctuate in value, depending on demand and the exchange you’re using.
Because Singapore’s regulatory edge matters Clear rules mean more trust and opens the door to institutional adoption and better retail platforms.
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Because they’re a payments game, not an investment Think low-cost, cross-border transactions. Not passive income or capital gains.
Because retail adoption is growing fast Especially in emerging markets, where stablecoins can offer dollar exposure in places where banking access is limited.
Because due diligence still matters Who issues the coin? How are reserves held? What happens when regulation shifts? These are the questions investors should be asking.
Listen now as Howie Lim cuts through the crypto gloss to help listeners understand how stablecoins work, where they fit into the financial landscape, and when to approach with caution.
Find more great content at bt.sg/podcasts. For feedback or episode ideas, email the team at btpodcasts@sph.com.sg.
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Send us your questions, thoughts, story ideas, and feedback to btpodcasts@sph.com.sg.
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Written and hosted by: Howie Lim (howielim@sph.com.sg)
With Amy Zhang, head of APAC at Fireblocks and Koen Hoorelbeke, investment strategist at Saxo
Edited by: Howie Lim & Claressa Monteiro
Produced by: Howie Lim
A podcast by BT Podcasts, The Business Times, SPH Media
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