Inovatif

Category: Personal Finance

  • MBSB Bank launches SBMB 5.0

    MBSB Bank today announced the launch of the fifth edition of its flagship savings campaign, Simpan Berganda Menang Bergaya (SBMB 5.0). The initiative continues the Bank’s focus on encouraging financial discipline and rewarding consistent saving habits among Malaysians.

    Following the strong participation recorded in the previous year, SBMB 5.0 will run throughout 2026. The campaign is designed to be inclusive, allowing customers to build their savings while becoming eligible for a rewards pool valued at RM2 million.

    Participation is open to both new and existing customers with a minimum earmarked deposit of RM2,000. By placing fresh funds or incremental deposits into designated accounts, customers qualify for rewards across multiple categories:

    • National Grand Prizes: Three premium SUV models: the Jetour T2, GWM Tank 300, and GWM Tank 500.
    • Regional Grand Prizes: Suzuki Jimny 5-door (complete with roof rack).
    • Voyager Rewards: Eleven Maldives travel packages for two.
    • Early Bird Rewards: Swiss-made luxury timepieces valued at up to RM35,000 each.

    Rafe Haneef, Group Chief Executive Officer of MBSB Bank, said, “We really want to change the conversation around saving in Malaysia. Often, people feel that growing wealth is only for a certain group, but with SBMB 5.0, we’ve intentionally kept the entry point at just RM2,000 to make it accessible for everyone. Our goal is to see more Malaysians building that financial safety net while having a bit of excitement doing it. Whether you’re just starting out or have been with us for years, this is about making disciplined saving something that feels achievable and genuinely exciting for people from all walks of life.”

  • Hong Leong Assurance launches HLA Legacy Wealth

    Hong Leong Assurance launches HLA Legacy Wealth

    Hong Leong Assurance (HLA) introduces HLA Legacy Wealth, a next-generation insurance solution designed to help individuals build, preserve, and pass on their wealth with clarity and care. The policy includes Loyalty Bonuses of up to 25% of the Basic Sum Assured, credited directly into the policy and compounded over time; the Lapse-Free Zone, a first-of-its-kind feature in Malaysia that ensures policy continuity beyond age 95 even in adverse market conditions; and the Death Benefit Settlement Options (DBSO), which allow policyholders to customise how and when their wealth is distributed.

    While wills, trusts and family offices remain essential components of estate planning, insurance continues to be one of the most widely adopted tools — offering both accessibility and structure. HLA Legacy Wealth complements these traditional instruments by providing a practical starting point for legacy planning.

    To enhance its investment potential, HLA Legacy Wealth offers access to a curated selection of funds, including the newly introduced HLA Strategic Global Equity Fund, managed by Hong Leong Asset Management in partnership with Amundi Singapore Limited — part of Amundi, Europe’s largest asset manager with over USD 2.7 trillion in assets under management (as at 30 June 2025). This global equity portfolio is designed to deliver medium to long-term capital growth.

    What truly sets HLA Legacy Wealth apart is its thoughtful approach to long-term financial security and legacy distribution. The Lapse-Free Zone offers true peace of mind in the later years of life, ensuring that the policy remains in force even when market conditions are unfavourable — a reassurance for those who want their legacy to endure without interruption. This feature reflects HLA’s commitment to protecting wealth not just during accumulation, but throughout the final stages of life.

  • StashAway launches ETF Explorer

    StashAway launches ETF Explorer

    StashAway Malaysia has launched ETF Explorer, a simple way to invest in Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) across assets, themes, and global markets in minutes by removing complexities through its intuitive design and transparent pricing. Users can invest in over 80 expertly-selected ETFs across global equities, bonds, commodities, and trending themes like US tech, artificial intelligence, and emerging markets – all without needing a foreign account.

    “Many Malaysians we spoke to felt that global investing was only for the financially savvy,” said Wong Wai Ken, StashAway Malaysia Country Manager. “But it has a place in everyone’s portfolio. Whether you’re just getting started or already experienced, ETF Explorer makes it easy to discover global opportunities and make informed decisions that build long-term wealth.”

    ETF Explorer is designed to make global investing as intuitive as possible. Users can invest in an ETF in as little as a minute, without having to sift through thousands of different tickers. Each ETF comes with clear, jargon-free explanations, so users understand exactly what each ETF represents and what they’re investing in.

    With just USD $1.99 per order and no ongoing management fees — ETF Explorer allows returns to compound faster over time. Dividends are also automatically reinvested at no charge.

    Behind the scenes, StashAway’s investment team screens thousands of ETFs worldwide to identify the most cost-efficient, tax-optimised, and well-managed options for each asset class. This allows investors to benefit from professional insights without the high costs of traditional wealth managers.

    ETF Explorer is part of StashAway’s mission to make long-term investing simple and cost effective for all Malaysians. It’s designed for investors who want to build their own portfolios with guidance, while those who prefer a hands-off approach can still choose to grow their wealth through StashAway’s managed investment portfolios.

  • Zurich Malaysia introduces Z-Driver EV Protect

    Zurich Malaysia introduces Z-Driver EV Protect

    Zurich Malaysia has introduced Z-Driver EV Protect, a comprehensive insurance and takaful benefits designed exclusively for electric vehicle (EV) owners. This new offering enhances car insurance and takaful protection to cover EV batteries, home wall chargers, portable charging accessories, and more. With an affordable add-on premium/contribution of just RM120*, Z-Driver EV Protect delivers targeted coverage tailored to the unique needs of EV owners.

    “EV owners face a unique set of risks that go beyond traditional motor insurance and takaful. Z-Driver EV Protect is designed to address these concerns, offering practical coverage that reflects how EVs are used today. It’s part of our commitment to making protection more relevant, accessible, and aligned with our customers’ evolving lifestyles,” said Foo Chuen Hou, Chief Distribution Officer, General Segment of Zurich Malaysia.

    Key benefits* of Z-Driver EV Protect include:
    • Home wall charger coverage up to RM15,000
    • Personal liability while charging up to RM50,000
    • Portable charging cable coverage up to RM2,000
    • Compassionate allowance for incidents at public charging stations up to RM20,000
    • Optional enhanced special perils protection, including battery damage due to water ingress from insured events

    These benefits complement existing Z-Driver features, such as unlimited towing in the event of battery depletion, giving EV drivers greater confidence, peace of mind, and protection for every journey.

    Furthering this commitment to sustainable mobility, Zurich Malaysia has collaborated with Gentari Green Mobility Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Gentari Sdn Bhd (Gentari), to support greater awareness and visibility of EV charging infrastructure nationwide. Through this collaboration, Zurich Malaysia has extended its brand presence to 13 EV charging stations at high-footfall destinations, including Suria KLCC, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, KLIA2 Gateway, The Gardens Mall, Paradigm Mall Johor Bahru, Gamuda Gardens, Putrajaya Sentral, and more.

    “Reliable charging infrastructure plays a pivotal role in enabling more Malaysians to embrace electric mobility. Our collaboration with Gentari is not just about increasing the number of chargers, it’s about helping to build a more connected and confident EV ecosystem. Sustainability must be practical, customer-focused, and accessible,” said Teresa Wong, Chief Risk Officer – General Segment and Head of Sustainability Risk of Zurich Malaysia.

    Aliah Nasreen Abdullah, Chief Customer Officer of Gentari Green Mobility, echoed this sentiment, saying, “Gentari is committed to creating a robust green mobility ecosystem in Malaysia, and our collaboration with Zurich Malaysia is another step in that direction. Together, we’re expanding the availability of EV chargers and enhancing the entire ownership experience, making it easier, safer, and more accessible for drivers to transition to clean mobility.”

    The collaboration with Gentari, a leading clean energy solutions provider, supports Zurich Malaysia’s goal of building a more sustainable future by addressing one of the main barriers to EV adoption, convenient and reliable charging infrastructure.

  • Kenanga Futures launches “Futures Awaken”

    Kenanga Futures Sdn Bhd (“Kenanga Futures”) has announced the launch of its latest nationwide campaign, “Futures Awaken”. Running until 30 November 2025, the campaign is dedicated to shaping a new generation of traders by enhancing their financial strategies and redefining Futures as a vital hedging and risk management tool amidst ongoing global economic uncertainties.

    Futures Awaken highlights Malaysia’s growing prominence in the global derivatives space by showcasing the vibrant and dynamic product landscape of Bursa Malaysia Derivatives (BMD) as a gateway to new opportunities. Reflecting Kenanga Futures’ commitment to Building a Smart Derivatives Trading Community, the campaign offers a curated digital learning journey featuring interactive e-modules and seminars – all designed to foster financial literacy and empower Malaysia’s New-Gen, which makes up 25% of the population, to take charge of their financial future in the ever-evolving derivatives landscape.

    “At Kenanga Futures, we are building tomorrow, today. By staying true to our values, we strive to inspire and empower the next generation of traders through innovation and enhanced education to thrive in this dynamic derivatives industry. The Futures Awaken campaign is a timely initiative that celebrates the spirit of Malaysia Day by equipping Malaysians with a strong foundation in futures trading and advancing them to the next level. As the Gen-Alpha of today embraces disruptive technology and adopts AI-machine learning in trading strategy, the derivatives landscape is being redefined – unlocking new opportunities in this new era of trading,” said Azila Abdul Aziz, Chief Executive Officer/ Executive Director & Head of Listed Derivatives of Kenanga Futures.

    Throughout the campaign period, account opening fees are reduced to a nominal RM10, lowering the barrier of entry for newcomers to capitalise on the current market landscape. Additionally, new clients who successfully register and open a futures trading account with Kenanga Futures during the campaign period, and trade a minimum of 10 BMD contracts, will be eligible to receive a RM100 e-shopping voucher, while the top 20 traders must fulfil the minimum requirement of trading more than 500 BMD contracts during the campaign period in order to qualify for the RM300 e-shopping voucher.

    Looking ahead, Kenanga Futures plans to expand the campaign with advanced learning modules, collaborative initiatives, and partnerships with industry experts – reinforcing its commitment to Building a Smart Derivatives Trading Community.

  • StashAway launches Shariah Global Portfolios

    StashAway launches Shariah Global Portfolios

    StashAway, Malaysia’s leading digital wealth management platform, has announced the release of its Shariah Global Portfolios. These Shariah-compliant diversified portfolios have delivered back-tested returns of up to 14.4% annually over the past five years.

    The portfolios have demonstrated strong 5-year annualised composite historical returns ranging from 7.3% to 14.0% annually, positioning them competitively against conventional investment options. Built with low-cost Shariah-compliant ETFs, which have ample liquidity and low tracking errors, clients benefit from efficient execution.

    “We are proud to offer a solution that empowers more Malaysians to grow their wealth with their Shariah-compliant values. With our Shariah Global Portfolios delivering competitive double-digit returns, investors can access global growth opportunities while staying aligned to Islamic principles. We believe that the global exposure of our Shariah-compliant offerings is highly complementary to Malaysians’ core investments such as Amanah Saham Bumiputera and retirement-focused Employee Provident Fund which provide primarily domestic exposure,” said Wong Wai Ken, Country Manager, StashAway Malaysia.

    StashAway’s offering provides investors with four distinct risk levels to match different investor profiles, from moderate to very aggressive. The globally diversified portfolios offer exposure, through ETFs, to global equities, US equities, emerging market equities global Sukuk and gold, helping reduce over-concentration risk. Clients are also able to use these ETFs to build portfolios through StashAway’s Flexible Portfolios which include the asset classes listed above, alongside Silver, Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs.

    StashAway’s Shariah-compliant offerings have been screened and certified by Masryef Advisory, a Shariah advisory firm registered with the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC). Ongoing reviews ensure portfolios remain aligned with Islamic principles, giving investors peace of mind.

    “Our partnership with StashAway reflects our shared commitment to enabling ethical, faith-aligned investing. Every ETF in the Shariah Global Portfolios has been rigorously screened and vetted based on globally recognised Shariah screening methodology. Investors can have confidence that their portfolios remain Shariah-compliant.” said Khairil Anuar, Principal, Masryef Advisory.

    This comes at a time when Malaysia’s Islamic finance sector continues to expand, with increasing investor appetite for Shariah-compliant investment products that deliver competitive returns. StashAway’s solution provides access to global markets which previously has proven difficult for individual investors to access cost-effectively.

  • Manulife and Bank of China Malaysia launch global income fund to strengthen retirement readiness

    Manulife and Bank of China Malaysia launch global income fund to strengthen retirement readiness

    Financial wellbeing is increasingly recognised as a key pillar of long-term health and longevity, with many acknowledging that financial fitness can significantly influence their quality of life as they age. In response to this growing awareness – and the pressing need to help investors in Malaysia better prepare for retirement – Manulife Investments and Bank of China (Malaysia) Berhad (BOCM) announced that they are offering BOCM clients the Manulife Global Multi-Asset Diversified Income Fund (the Fund). The Fund invests at least 85% of its net asset value into the Manulife Global Fund – Global Multi-Asset Diversified Income Fund (the Target Fund).

    The Manulife Global Multi-Asset Diversified Income Fund is suitable for investors who seek regular income, and wish to participate in a diversified portfolio of assets in the global markets, and have a medium to long-term investment horizon.

    A recent survey[1] conducted by Manulife revealed that only 58% of Malaysians believe they have sufficient funds for retirement – raising concerns that the remaining 42% may face health and longevity challenges post-retirement. Additionally, over half (56%) believe it is critical to have a steady income stream after retirement, while nearly one-third say a diversified investment portfolio helps bridge their financial gap.

    The Manulife Global Multi-Asset Diversified Income Fund takes a differentiated approach to income generation, focusing less on equity appreciation and more on delivering yield through fixed income and an option writing strategy. A key feature of the strategy is the tactical use of option writing, which may provide a steady income stream in both rising and falling markets. Option premiums tend to increase with market volatility, making this approach particularly valuable during market downturns – when traditional capital payouts may be under pressure.

    Yan Ye, Deputy Chief Executive of BOCM, said “BOCM understands that the country will become an aged nation earlier than expected by 2040, with those who are 60 years old and above accounting for 17% of the population[2] . According to a public mandatory retirement scheme, most Malaysians do not have enough savings for their retirement. Therefore, planning for retirement should start early to enable individuals to adopt suitable strategy. As a financial service provider, BOCM provides banking solutions that bridge the financial needs of Malaysians. Leveraging the Fund’s objective and Manulife Investments’ fund management expertise over the years, we are onboarding the Fund on our platform to enhance the range of options available for our customers’ selection.”

    Grace Ho, Head of Retail Wealth Distribution and Direct Digital Business, Asia, Manulife Investments said: “We are pleased to offer the Manulife Global Multi-Asset Diversified Income Fund to the valued customers of BOCM. Across Asia, we continue to see rising demand for income solutions that can help investors navigate longer lifespans, shifting retirement expectations, and evolving market conditions. Bringing this established strategy to Malaysia reflects our commitment to supporting local investors with proven, globally diversified approaches that align with their long-term financial goals.”

    BOCM customers can subscribe to the Manulife Global Multi-Asset Diversified Income Fund through bank branches and mobile banking (eWealth Banking) platform.

  • Razorpay Curlec and VISA launch instalment payments

    As Malaysia’s consumer spending gears up for a strong 2025, driven by an average income growth of 3.3% year-on-year, household expenditures are set to rise sharply – from RM896.9 billion in 2024 to an anticipated RM943.7 billion this year.

    But what’s truly reshaping the consumer spending landscape? A new wave of digitally savvy Malaysians is demanding smarter, more flexible payment solutions such as Easy Payment Plans (EPP) to help manage both planned and unplanned purchases.

    Recognising this shift in consumer expectations, Malaysia’s leading payment gateway, Razorpay Curlec, has joined forces with the trusted leader in digital payments, VISA, in a strategic partnership to deliver credit card-based instalment plans through VISA Instalment Solutions (VIS).

    This game-changing collaboration is designed to empower businesses nationwide, enabling them to offer customers easy and affordable ways to manage both planned expenditures and unexpected expenses.

    With VIS now integrated into the Razorpay Curlec platform, businesses can provide their customers the freedom to spread the cost of big-ticket items over manageable monthly instalments, available on credit cards from major banks. This partnership not only meets the evolving needs of Malaysia’s consumers but also unlocks fresh growth opportunities for businesses in a fast-paced digital economy.

    Kevin Lee, Country Head and Chief Executive Officer of Razorpay Curlec, said, “Today’s consumers do not just appreciate flexibility, they expect it, especially when it comes to making high-value purchases. To stay ahead, Malaysian businesses need solutions that deliver choice without compromising cash flow or customer experience.

    Through our partnership with Visa, we are enabling thousands of Razorpay Curlec businesses to offer trusted, seamless instalment options, empowering them to elevate the checkout experience, deepen customer relationships, and unlock new avenues for growth and loyalty,” Lee concluded.

    Previn Pillay, Country Manager of Visa Malaysia, said, “We’re thrilled to partner with Razorpay Curlec to enable Visa Instalment Solutions at checkout, empowering consumers with seamless and flexible ways to pay. Instalments are increasingly becoming a smart and manageable way to spend, whether on everyday essentials or larger purchases, because they provide both choice and peace of mind. By bringing VIS to Razorpay Curlec, we are supporting financial confidence and giving consumers greater control of their spending, underscoring our commitment to driving inclusive payments built around the needs of consumers.”

    According to the 2024 Visa Consumer Payment Attitudes study, card payments are especially prevalent in more mature markets such as Singapore and Malaysia (91%), where card usage maintains a deeper foothold than other newer payment methods, despite the momentum for mobile wallets.

    With EPP, businesses offer customers 0% interest and no management fees on purchases with flexible instalments for credit card users. Customers can access over thousands of participating retailers across categories like home & living, electronics, jewellery, and beauty services.

    By combining world-class technology with deep local insight, Razorpay Curlec is redefining what it means to be a modern payment gateway in Malaysia. Trusted by businesses of all sizes, Razorpay Curlec remains committed to driving innovation, strengthening security, and delivering customer-first solutions to Malaysian businesses, powering growth in one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic digital economies.

  • RHB introduces new Vehicle Financing-i (Variable Rate) Flexi Redraw

    RHB Banking Group introduces its new Vehicle Financing-i (Variable Rate) Flexi Redraw with the aim to provide a more responsive alternative to conventional hire purchase arrangements.

    The RHB Vehicle Financing-i (Variable Rate) Flexi Redraw seeks to address limitations of traditional vehicle financing through a two-pronged approach. At its core, the product allows hirers to make additional payments beyond their scheduled instalments. Crucially, these overpayments are designed to directly reduce the underlying profit charges on the outstanding financing amount. This mechanism presents a tangible opportunity for hirers to reduce their total financing cost over the tenure, a notable departure from standard fixed-payment structures.

    The “Flexi Redraw” element introduces a significant layer of financial agility by permitting customers to withdraw these accumulated excess funds when unforeseen circumstances arise. This feature effectively integrates a liquidity buffer directly into the financing arrangement, potentially alleviating the need for alternative, often more costly, short-term borrowing/financing solutions during financial exigencies.

    Jeffrey Ng Eow Oo, Managing Director of Group Community Banking, RHB Banking Group, highlighted the rationale behind the product, “Consumers are increasingly seeking financial solutions that offer both savings and flexibility. Our latest financing enhancement is designed to help our customers take control of their financial future by reducing overall costs while ensuring they have access to additional funds when needed.”

    In close partnership with Volvo Car Malaysia, RHB Vehicle Financing-i (Variable Rate) Flexi Redraw will now also be available as an option on Volvo Car Financial Services – Volvo’s premium financing solutions to help customers get in the seat of their new Volvo car.

    “We are grateful to have RHB Banking Group as our long-standing financing partner for Volvo Car Financial Services whose products have given our customers the flexibility of variable rates. The new Flexi Redraw option is an excellent value-add for customers seeking the safety, luxury, comfort and performance of our latest electrified cars without compromising their financial security,” said Chris Tan, Sales Director of Volvo Car Malaysia.

    For prospective motor vehicle owners in Malaysia, the RHB Vehicle Financing-i (Variable Rate) Flexi Redraw introduces several key advantages:

    • Cost Efficiency Potential: The ability to reduce profit charges through proactive overpayments offers a pathway to lower overall financing expenditure.
    • Integrated Financial Buffer: The redraw feature provides an accessible liquidity option directly linked to one’s vehicle financing.
    • Enhanced Control: The product design aims to empower hirers to better manage their long-term financial commitments.

    The product is available for individuals (18-65 years old) and various business entities, covering new, new unregistered reconditioned, and used vehicles, with a minimum financing amount of RM80,000. It is important to note that the profit charges discount on excess payments is capped at 50% of the total original financing amount, and withdrawals are subject to minimal fee, with a minimum withdrawal of RM2,000 and in multiples of RM1,000.

  • AFFIN launches “AFFIN 50 Years, 50 Prizes” Golden Jubilee campaign

    AFFIN launches “AFFIN 50 Years, 50 Prizes” Golden Jubilee campaign

    AFFIN Group (“AFFIN” or “the Group”) celebrates its 50th anniversary with the launch of the “AFFIN 50 Years, 50 Prizes” Golden Jubilee Campaign, a year-long celebration rewarding customers with exclusive prizes, strengthening financial literacy and empowering Malaysians on their financial journey. Running from 1 March 2025 to 31 January 2026, this milestone campaign features 50 exclusive prizes, including a Grand Prize of RM1,000,000.

    The “AFFIN 50 Years, 50 Prizes” Golden Jubilee Campaign invites customers to participate by performing eligible transactions, such as maintaining a minimum Month-End Balance (MEB) of RM5,000 in their AFFIN Current or Savings accounts. With every eligible transaction, customers earn entries for a chance to win.

    Datuk Wan Razly Abdullah, President & Group Chief Executive Officer of AFFIN Group, said, “For 50 years, AFFIN has underscored its commitment to strengthening financial resilience, fostering economic growth, and delivering value to our customers wherever they are. The “AFFIN 50 Years, 50 Prizes” Golden Jubilee Campaign reflects our dedication to creating opportunities, driving progress, and empowering people with financial solutions that meet their evolving needs. As we look ahead, we remain focused on building a future-ready financial ecosystem that serves a wider community, aligned with the strategic pillars of our AFFIN Axelerate 2028 (AX28) Plan, which are Unrivalled Customer Service, Digital Leadership, and Responsible Banking With Impact.”

    Beyond this flagship campaign, AFFIN is introducing a suite of initiatives tailored to meet the diverse financial needs of its customers, including Jalan-Jalan Raya AFFIN with Naelofar, the Porsche Cashback Campaign, the 1-for-1 Business Class offer with AFFIN Credit Card, and many more to be launched throughout the year. These initiatives are spearheaded by AFFIN’s key business divisions such as Deposit Business, Cards, Personal Financing, Mortgage, Auto Finance, Corporate Banking, Enterprise Banking and Wealth Management, in collaboration with Affin Hwang Investment Bank Berhad.

    Learn more about how customers can benefit from the “AFFIN 50 Years, 50 Prizes” Golden Jubilee Campaign and start earning rewards today by visiting www.AffinAlways.com or following @Affinmy on social media.