BT Money Hacks: Why gold is glimmering again in an uncertain world

When inflation is sticky, policy is fuzzy, and no one seems quite sure where the global economy is headed, gold starts looking less like a relic and more like a rational choice.

You’ve likely heard the pitch before: “Gold is a safe haven.” But in 2025, it’s not just fear driving gold’s comeback—it’s strategy. In this episode of Money Hacks by The Business Times, host Howie Lim gets into the nitty-gritty with Fan Shaokai from The World Gold Council, Stephanie Leung from StashAway and Robin Tsui from State Street Global Advisors to unpack why gold is having a moment, how to think about it in your portfolio, and whether it’s too late to get in on the action.

Why listen?

• Because gold isn’t just glinting in vaults. It’s quietly being stockpiled by central banks. That should make you pause.
• Because diversifying isn’t just about adding a shiny asset. It’s about understanding why gold behaves the way it does when everything else is on fire.
• Because the price has gone up but that doesn’t mean you’ve missed the boat. Timing might be overrated; allocation isn’t.

And because thinking of gold as a quick-hit investment? That’s how people end up disappointed. This episode helps you see it for what it is: a stabiliser, not a saviour.

Forget the gold fever of old, this is a calm, clear-headed look at how the metal fits into a modern portfolio. From dollar-cost averaging to the declining faith in the US dollar, this conversation gives you what you need to decide whether gold deserves space in your own mix.

Listen to the full episode of Money Hacks now because in a time of global uncertainty, a little glint of clarity goes a long way.

And as always, host Howie Lim invites your feedback or suggestions at btpodcasts@sph.com.sg.

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Written and hosted by: Howie Lim (howielim@sph.com.sg)

With Stephanie Leung, chief investment officer, StashAway; Robin Tsui, APAC gold strategist, State Street Global Advisors; and Fan Shaokai, head of Asia-Pacific (ex-China) & global head of Central Banks, World Gold Council

Edited by: Howie Lim & Claressa Monteiro

Produced by: Howie Lim & Chai Pei Chieh

A podcast by BT Podcasts, The Business Times, SPH Media

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Do note: This podcast is meant to provide general information only. SPH Media accepts no liability for loss arising from any reliance on the podcast or use of third party’s products and services. Please consult professional advisors for independent advice. 

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