Dividend Magic

Saving and Investing towards Financial Independence in Malaysia

Investing

Webull Malaysia Full Review and Guide + RM200 free NVDIA shares

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Filed Under: Free Stuff, Investment 0

If you’re looking for a flexible, feature-rich investing app in Malaysia, Webull is starting to look very compelling.

Referral link: https://www.webull.com.my/k/Magic
Code: Magic

If you’ve missed Webull Malaysia’s first promo, not to worry, they’re still offering a subsequent promo giving new users RM200 worth of free NVIDIA shares with a deposit of RM1,000 and maintaining it for 60 days.

It is a little less but still a good deal because the entry point is now RM1,000 instead of RM5,000. What’s more, the 6% p.a. return is still on for new users! Capped at RM50,000 and for 45 days.

Webull Malaysia free RM200 NVDIA stock

Rewards you’ll get when signing up with my referral link

Use my link and code to register, deposit RM1,000 to get free RM200 worth of NVDIA shares. At the same time, make use of their 6% promo to get the most of your idle cash.

Referral link: https://www.webull.com.my/k/Magic
Code: Magic

  • Deposit RM1,000 into Webull.
  • Maintain the RM1,000 balance for 60 days.
  • Receive RM200 worth of NVIDIA shares.*
  • Enjoy 6% p.a. for 45 days on your Moneybull balance (up to RM50,000).

*new users only, campaign ends 31 March 2026.

In this article, I’ll walk you through how Webull works, why this promo is attractive, how their cash-management product “Moneybull” works, and the risks to be aware of.

What and who is Webull Malaysia?

Webull Malaysia is a local arm of the global Webull platform. It’s regulated by the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC), which gives it legitimacy and a layer of investor protection.

Some key features:

  • Access to US stocks (fractional shares) + Malaysian listed shares.
  • 24-hour trading for select US stocks and advanced charting tools.
  • No “platform fee” for now, and zero commission for Bursa Malaysia trades (at least for a limited time).
  • Option between Islamic and conventional bank account types. Once selected, the account type cannot be changed.

How to deposit money into Webull Malaysia

No FPX deposit (for now), you’ll have to deposit using DuitNow.

Follow the steps below to retrieve Webull’s Malaysia Account Information and Reference Number:

  1. Tap the Webull logo at the bottom of the screen
  2. Select “Securities”
  3. Tap “Transfers” at the top of the screen
  4. Tap “Deposit”
  5. You may copy the Webull’s Malaysia Account Information and Reference Number details into your online banking.

Just make sure you’re depositing under the same account holder’s name and to add in the correct reference. I got my money within seconds of doing the transfer.

The bank account details such as Account Number and Reference in your Webull Malaysia App are specific to your account for deposit purposes. It is important that the depositor’s name match your Webull account details.

Full steps and details via Webull Malaysia here.

Moneybull: Earn up to 6% p.a. on idle cash

Webull Moneybull 6% interest

One of the most interesting features Webull Malaysia has right now is Moneybull, a cash-management solution. Here’s what you should know:

  • Moneybull is powered by AHAM Capital, a fund manager, and it invests your idle cash into a Shariah-compliant money market fund – AHAM Aiiman Enhanced i-Profit Fund (Class B Accumulation)
  • Under normal conditions, this money market fund returns up to 3.4% p.a.
  • As part of the current promo – Webull is offering 6% p.a. for 45 days on Moneybull balances (up to RM 50,000) for eligible users.

To show you that I actually put my own money in – RM200,000:

How to deposit and move money into Moneybull

Auto Sweep automatically sweeps uninvested cash to Moneybull, ensuring funds remain instantly available as buying power for MY stock trading.

Tip: Set your Reserve Amount to RM0 so all your money will be moved to Moneybull to earn that 6% interest.

How to register for a Webull Malaysia account

  • Download the Webull Malaysia app.
  • Enter your mobile number and verify it with an SMS code.
  • Complete eKYC:
    • Take a photo of your IC (front and back).
    • Take a selfie for facial verification.
    • Upload a document that shows your address (e.g. bank statement or utility bill).
  • Fill in your personal details.
  • Review and accept the user agreement
  • Submit your application.
  • Account approval usually takes 1 to 3 working days.

Is Webull safe to use?

Safety is a major concern for any investing platform, and Webull Malaysia has several layers of protection in place:

  • Regulated by the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC)
    Webull Malaysia operates under a Capital Markets Services Licence. This means they must follow strict rules on client funds, reporting, and risk management.
  • Your money is held in a trust account
    Client funds are kept separate from the company’s own money. This prevents misuse and protects your deposits if anything happens to the company.
  • Moneybull uses a licensed fund manager
    Moneybull is powered by AHAM Capital, which is one of Malaysia’s largest and most established fund managers. Your money is invested in a regulated money market fund, not held by Webull directly.
  • No lock-in for Moneybull
    Since Moneybull is a money market fund, your funds remain accessible. You can redeem anytime, and Auto Sweep ensures liquidity when you buy stocks.

How to sign up (using my Webull referral link)

  1. Click my referral link: https://www.webull.com.my/k/Magic
  2. Or use my code: Magic
  3. Register for a Webull Malaysia account and complete KYC.
  4. Deposit RM 1,000 into your Webull account (via bank transfer, or whichever deposit method Webull supports).
  5. Keep that balance for at least 60 days (do not withdraw).
  6. Once you deposit RM1,000, your stock coupons will appear on the rewards page by T+1, with the estimated arrival date of your shares.

Final thoughts and verdict on Webull Malaysia

Webull Malaysia ongoing promotion

Get started with Webull Malaysia: deposit funds, receive NVIDIA shares as a bonus, and optionally transfer cash to Moneybull for competitive returns on idle funds (6% pa for 45 days!).

Grab this opportunity, get the free RM200 NVDIA share and learn about investing with Webull along the way!

This content is sponsored by Webull and has not been reviewed by the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC).

Dividend Income (Malaysia) Update 2025

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Filed Under: Dividends 3

A list of my past dividend income from Malaysia and updates can be found below:

Dividend Magic Dividend Income Update

Dividend Income (Malaysia) Update – Oct 2025

Dividend Income (Oct) –  RM957.93
Dividend Income (2025) –  RM25,539.63
Dividend Yield – 5.58%

Freedom Fund updates can be found here.

RM957.93 in total dividend income for October 2025.

Total dividends consist of:

Sunway – RM400.12 +128%
Sunawy (Preference shares) – RM32.81 -%
Matrix – RM525 +5%

Huge increase from Sunway as they’ve gone up by a lot throughout the year. We’re at 4.43% dividend yield now for Sunway.

Matrix’s 4th dividend increased a little compared to last year’s dividend. But in total we’re still down as they paid out less during their 2nd and 3rd dividends.

No additional buy or sell.

Previously, I’ve also moved most of the stocks from my Hong Leong trading account to moomoo (I took advantage of their promo and will be getting an Apple share for transferring in) and will be investing from Moomoo. You can find my latest review on moomoo MY hERE.

Moomoo referral link: http://j.moomoo.com/00KiPh
Referral Code: DM77

Asset Allocation

Updated 2025

I’ll also be leaving my previous section on asset allocation here (down below) and updating it again towards the end of the year.

All my assets can be categorised into two main categories – Safe and Growth

2025 Asset Allocation
Safe Assets (48%)
FD and savings – 7%
ASM, EPF & PRS – 26%
Bonds – 15%
Growth Assets (52%)
US stocks, MY stocks, crypto, P2P

2024 Asset Allocation
Safe Assets (54%)
FD and savings – 13%
ASM, EPF & PRS – 24%
Bonds – 17%
Growth Assets (46%)
US stocks, MY stocks, crypto, P2P

For a little privacy and to avoid disclosing my exact numbers, I’ve lumped my growth assets into one. 😉
And so, the above is what my allocation looks like. It is very conservative considering my age. I’m still (relatively) young. Ideally, I would like to have about 60% in growing assets, maybe even 70%.

Financial Independence but not Retirement

Relating to FI/RE, I realise that I may be reaching my goal soon. And maybe it is time to update the FI/RE guide as well.
As this wasn’t an overnight achievement, there isn’t much excitement on my part. Perhaps more of a gradual anticipation.
I am, however, a little disillusioned. So I have a few questions for everyone:
1. What is your FI/RE number?
2. What do you plan to do with said amount?
I’m considering dumping into EPF (reaching the RM1M mark to enable withdrawals) and leaving the rest in stocks. OR leaving >50% in stocks and the rest in Safe Assets.
3. What jobs have you considered taking once you are financially independent?
I don’t like to be idle and I’m considering so many different jobs.
a. Work and travel
b. Working a simple job nearby with whoever is hiring
c. Becoming a personal trainer as I enjoy working out
d. Go into the financial planning field and utilise my CFP
e. Live off-grid and farm

For stock investing, I use Rakuten and moomoo MY. Don’t forget to use my referral link for extra rewards.

As always, follow my Facebook and Instagram to keep up to date!

Dividend Income (Malaysia) Update – Aug & Sept 2025

Dividend Income (Aug/Sept) –  RM8,123.45
Dividend Income (2025) –  RM24,581.70
Dividend Yield – 5.37%

Freedom Fund updates can be found here.

RM8,123.45 in total dividend income for August and Sept. Combined the two together as we actually received only nothing from in August.

So, in September 2025, we received a total of RM8,123.45 from:

IGB REIT – RM938 +10%
Public Bank – RM735 +5%
Maybank – RM1,743.60 +3.4%
Maybank (MooMoo) – RM2,370 +4.3%
SunCon – RM26.10
SunREIT – RM2,310.75 +20%

Huge increase in dividends from both IGB REIT and SunREIT. Total dividend yield for the portfolio is 5.37% right now, and we’ve got one more quarter to go!

Dividend Income (Malaysia) Update – June & July 2025

Dividend Income (June/July) –  RM3,543.00
Dividend Income (2025) –  RM16,458.25
Dividend Yield – 3.59%

Freedom Fund updates can be found here.

RM3,543.00 in total dividend income for June and July. Combined the two together as we received only RM18 from SunCon in June.

In July, we received one from Matrix and one from Scientex.

Matrix paid out RM405 this time again, compared to RM500 last year. A 21% drop in dividends.

Scientex paid out RM3,138 in dividends. No increase in the % compared to last year. An increase in amount because I added more Scientex stocks to the portfolio.

Dividend Income (Malaysia) Update – April & May 2025

Dividend Income (Apr/May) –  RM1,899.21
Dividend Income (2025) –  RM12,897.25
Dividend Yield – 2.89%

RM1,899.21 in dividend income in April and May. Combined the two together as May has always been a slow month. Only received IGB REIT’s dividend. A slight jump from RM1,602.64 in April/May last year. Moving in the right direction.

Matrix paid out RM405 this time around, compared to RM500 last year. A 21% drop in dividends.

Sunway paid out RM400.12 compared to RM51.85 last year. A 684% increase. No surprise here as Sunway has been on a roll and share price has gone up by a lot as well.

Sunway PA paid out RM32.81 compared to RM65.62 last here. Half of the stock was bought back by Sunway so this is actually the same when compared.

IGB REIT paid out RM1,061.28 compared to RM984.87 last year. A 7% increase.

No additional buy or sell in April and May.

Previously, I’ve also moved most of the stocks from my Hong Leong trading account to moomoo (I took advantage of their promo and will be getting an Apple share for transferring in) and will be investing from Moomoo. You can find my latest review on moomoo MY hERE.

Moomoo referral link: http://j.moomoo.com/00KiPh
Referral Code: DM77

Dividend Income (Malaysia) Update – March 2025

Dividend Income (Mar) –  RM4,453.84
Dividend Income (2025) –  RM10,998.04
Dividend Yield – 2.55%

RM4,453.84 in dividend income in March! A big jump from RM2,620.22 in March last year. Moving in the right direction.

Public Bank paid out RM770 in March 2025, up 10% compared to RM700 in 2024.
Maybank went up to RM1,859.84 from RM1,801.72 last year. A 3+% increase.

I’ve since added more Maybank on MooMoo, and it gave me an additional RM1824 this year.

No additional buy or sell in March. But markets are really volatile now, and I’ve got my ammo at the ready.

Dividend Income (Malaysia) Update – February 2025

Dividend Income (Feb) –  RM3,054.20
Dividend Income (2025) –  RM6,544.20
Dividend Yield – 1.52%

RM3,054.20 in dividend income (Malaysia) for February 2025. This is a pretty big increase compared to the previous year. IGB REIT’s dividends actually decreased for the first quarter. It has been some time since they’ve decreased dividends. RM832.11 from RM898.52 previously.

Thankfully, we were saved by SunREIT’s increase in dividends – RM2,222.10 vs RM1,878.56.

BUY: Bought more Scientex in February. Holding a total of 52,300 units now.

SELL: Sold APOLLO to free up a little money, anticipating a downturn in the economy.

Dividend Income (Malaysia) Update – January 2025

Dividend Income (January) –  RM3,490.00
Dividend Income (2025) –  RM3,490.00
Dividend Yield – 0.89%

RM3,490.00 in dividend income (Malaysia) for January 2025. This is a huge increase compared to the previous year as we added Apollo to our portfolio. Scientex’s dividends increased from RM1,900 in 2024 to RM2,280 this year. That’s a 20% increase. Matrix’s one also increased from RM500 to RM550, a 10% bump. All in all, a good start to the year 2025.

As Matrix have been giving the portfolio a very solid performance, I’ll be monitoring and waiting for the right price to add more.

BUY: During trading last week, Scientex’s share price briefly took a dip below RM4. I took the opportunity to add 6,300 units at RM4.01 per share. You’ll see this reflected when I update my Freedom Fund come end of Q1.

Moomoo referral link: http://j.moomoo.com/00KiPh
Referral Code: DM77

Dividend Income (Malaysia) Update 2024

By
Filed Under: Dividends 2

A list of my past dividend income from Malaysia and updates can be found below:

Dividend Magic Dividend Income

Important Update: I’ve fixed my email subscription button and will be taking it seriously moving forward. You can find it on the homepage and on the right side bar as you’re reading this.

Feel free to sign up (you can unsubscribe and opt-out anytime). You’ll get updated on new articles, monthly updates and important reminders (such as to keep calm during turbulent times). I promise, no bullshit promos or sponsored ads or misinformation, ever. See you there!

Dividend Income (Malaysia) Update – November 2024

Dividend Income (November) –  RM1,001.87
Dividend Income (2024) –  RM20,735.99
Dividend Yield – 5.50%

RM1,001.87 in dividend income (Malaysia) for November. This is an increase compared to the previous year as we added Apollo to our portfolio. Also, IGB REIT’s dividends have increased as well y-o-y. RM891.87 compared to RM865.31.

We will have passed the RM20,000 mark in dividends this year with a yield of 5.50% currently. I’ll continue to add more money into stocks and be less conservative moving forward. The goal is still RM1,000,000 in Malaysian stocks.

Previously, I’ve also moved most of the stocks from my Hong Leong trading account to moomoo (I took advantage of their promo and will be getting an Apple share for transferring in) and will be investing from Moomoo. You can find my latest review on moomoo MY hERE.

Moomoo referral link: http://j.moomoo.com/00KiPh

I’ll also be leaving my previous section on asset allocation here (down below) and updating it again towards the end of the year.

All my assets can be categorised into two main categories – Safe and Growth

Safe Assets (54%)
FD and savings – 13%
ASM, EPF & PRS – 24%
Bonds – 17%

Growth Assets (46%)
US stocks, MY stocks, crypto, P2P

For a little privacy and to avoid disclosing my exact numbers, I’ve lumped my growth assets into one. 😉
And so, the above is what my allocation looks like. It is very conservative considering my age. I’m still (relatively) young. Ideally, I would like to have about 60% in growing assets, maybe even 70%.

Financial Independence but not Retirement

Relating to FI/RE, I realise that I may be reaching my goal soon. And maybe it is time to update the FI/RE guide as well.
As this wasn’t an overnight achievement, there isn’t much excitement on my part. Perhaps more of a gradual anticipation.
I am, however, a little disillusioned. So I have a few questions for everyone:
1. What is your FI/RE number?
2. What do you plan to do with said amount?
I’m considering dumping into EPF (reaching the RM1M mark to enable withdrawals) and leaving the rest in stocks. OR leaving >50% in stocks and the rest in Safe Assets.
3. What jobs have you considered taking once you are financially independent?
I don’t like to be idle and I’m considering so many different jobs.
a. Work and travel
b. Working a simple job nearby with whoever is hiring
c. Becoming a personal trainer as I enjoy working out
d. Go into the financial planning field and utilise my CFP
e. Live off-grid and farm

For stock investing, I use Rakuten and moomoo MY. Don’t forget to use my referral link for extra rewards.

As always, Facebook, Instagram, and now! Follow, and keep up to date.

Dividend Income Update – October 2024

Dividend Income (October) –  RM740.68
Dividend Income (2024) –  RM19,734.12
Dividend Yield – 5.24%

RM740.68 in dividends for October. It’s an increase compared to the previous year as we’ve added Matrix and cut Nestle. Sunway’s dividends have increased as well y-o-y.

We will pass the RM20,000 mark in dividends this year but we’re unlikely to get to a 6% yield. I’ll continue to add more money into stocks and be less conservative moving forward. The goal is still RM1,000,000 in Malaysian stocks.

Dividend Income Update – September 2024

Dividend Income (September) –  RM6,813.80
Dividend Income (2024) –  RM18,993.44
Dividend Yield – 5.05%

Nothing in August but we got a big bump in September this year. Mainly thanks to a bigger Maybank holding. Received a total of RM3,338.48 in dividends from Malaysia’s largest bank. Yield is around the 6% region. A little tough to calculate as I’ve got them in two different brokerage accounts. Next year’s figures will be easier to calculate.

Also received RM852.02 from IGB REIT. An increase compared to RM788.56 last year. Yield is at 5.27% currently (one more dividend to go).

RM700 from Public Bank compared to RM630 last year. Yield increased significantly from 4.03% to 5.76% this year. Still can’t believe I’m seeing yields like this from PBB. Regret not buying more..

SunREIT paid out RM1,910.70 this time around compared to RM1,308.46 last year. Yield went up from 4.10% to 5.62% this year/ Finally looking like a proper REIT.

Dividend Income Update – July 2024

Dividend Income (July) –  RM2,780
Dividend Income (2024) –  RM12,179.64
Dividend Yield – 3.24%

Received RM2,780 in dividends for July 2024.
One from Scientex, which gave me RM2,280 this year, compared to RM1,900 last year. It may not seem like it’s a lot but that’s a 20% increase. 5.06% yield for me.

Another was from Matrix – RM500. First year holding this stock so no comparison yet. 4.69% yield so far.

Dividend Income Update – May 2024

Dividend Income (May) –  RM984.87
Dividend Income (2024) –  RM9,399.64
Dividend Yield – 2.44%

Received RM984.87 in dividend income for May 2024.
All of them are from IGB REIT, compared to RM930.99 same time last year. That’s a 5.7% increase.

We may be skipping June’s update as typically we don’t receive dividends in June. We will have an update on how the Freedom Fund is doing though.

Dividend Income Update – April 2024

Dividend Income (Apr) –  RM617.47
Dividend Income (2024) –  RM8,414.77
Dividend Yield – 2.18%

Received RM617.47 in dividends for April 2024.
RM500 from Matrix.
RM51.85 from Sunway.
RM65.62 from Sunway – Preference shares.

Relatively quiet month.
RM500 from Matrix, bought it last year so nothing to compare it to for the time being. The rest were from Sunway. Company is at an all-time high right now (finally).

I’ve also been contemplating moving more money out from my safe assets for awhile now. Will probably go all in on one stock soon – Maybank? =)

Dividend Income Update – March 2024

Dividend Income (Mar) –  RM2,620.22
Dividend Income (2024) –  RM7,797.30
Dividend Yield – 2.02%

Received RM2,620.22 in dividends for the third month of 2024.
RM700 from Public Bank.
RM1,801.72 from Maybank.
RM118.50 from QL Resources.

Both Public Bank and Maybank have increased their dividend amount compared to last year.
QL’s remained the same. And as the price has increased this month, I’ve subsequently sold all of my QL shares in line with my consolidation plans. Will be moving it to moomoo account to reinvest in either Matrix, Maybank or Scientex.

Dividend Income Update – February 2024

Dividend Income (Feb) –  RM2,777.08
Dividend Income (2024) –  RM5,177.08
Dividend Yield – 1.26%

Received RM2,777.08 in dividends for the second month of 2024. RM898.52 from IGB REIT and RM1,878.56 from SunREIT. My only two REIT holdings at the moment.
SunREIT and IGB REIT are both doing good and both had an increase in dividend payout this year compared to 2023.

Dividend Income Update – January 2024

Dividend Income (Jan) –  RM2,400
Dividend Income (2024) –  RM2,400
Dividend Yield – 0.59%

Had RM2,400 in dividends for the first month of 2024. RM1,900 from Scientex and RM500 from Matrix. My two darlings.
Scientex maintained the same dividend payout as 2023. Matrix is a new one for me and RM500 will be the first I receive from them.

Tiger Brokers Review: Platform, Fees & Features

By
Filed Under: Investment, Dividends, FI/RE, Financial Independence, Investment Portfolio, Sponsored, US Stocks 2

As of 2025, I am now using only MooMoo Malaysia and Rakuten Trade for my stock trading needs.

I have had an account with Tiger Brokers since 2020 but have yet to utilise it apart from trying out their interface and depositing a small amount in there.

If you are looking to trade international stocks and have yet to open an account with Tiger Brokers, you will be glad to know that there are huge perks to opening an account now.

Tiger Brokers Account Opening Referral and Promotion

  • 1 unit of Grab share
  • Unlimited commission-free trades for HK, SG, and China A-Shares for 365 days.
  • Unlimited commission-free trades for US stocks for 180 days. 

Account Funding Reward (Initial Deposit of SGD1,000 or more + execute 5 BUY trades)

  • SGD88 cash

The full T&C can be viewed hERE. The promotion lasts till 12 October 2022.

Why Tiger Brokers?

Fees

First off, as always, fees. Tiger Brokers’ zero-commission trading is huge and beats many other international brokers.

Now, zero commissions do not mean that trading of US shares is totally free because there is, of course, a platform fee of USD0.005 per share or a minimum of USD1 per trade. It is a fee, but it is cheaper in comparison to many other brokers. So, keep that in mind.

As I’ve mentioned many times, fees are important because they eat their way into your investment and you’ll find yourself paying a lot more than 1% at the end of day, say, 20 years.

You may think a 0.1% or a 1% fee is of no significance but with the compounding nature of long-term investing, we, as average investors, are looking at hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars in our investments at the end of the day.

Regulation and Protection

Tiger Brokers (Singapore) Pte Ltd is regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).

Elsewhere, they’re also regulated by the SEC in the US, ASIC in Australia and HKSFC in Hong Kong. They’re compliant in all the countries they operate in so they’re safe. Apart from that, customer funds are held in a segregated trust account with DBS Bank Ltd. Custodian of investors’ shares is with the Central Depository (CDP) as well as overseas brokers.

Another important safety factor is that Tiger Brokers is listed on NASDAQ and under the ticker TIGR. This, in my book, adds credibility to Tiger Brokers as a brokerage platform. Their books and reports are easily accessible should you feel the need to refer to them as well.

Rewards

There’s a built-in rewards system for users of Tiger Brokers – Tiger Coins. By completing certain tasks (which aren’t all that hard) you’ll be credited with Tiger Coins which can be used to redeem rewards such as commission-free trades.

Account Opening and Registration

So, you’ve decided to open an account. Two types of accounts are available at Tiger Brokers – Margin and Cash Upfront. I’ll always recommend a cash upfront account to start with. If you’ve been trading and investing for a long time and are confident in your abilities, you can always move up and open a margin account.

Link to register hERE.

Funding Your Tiger Brokers Account

The are many ways to move your funds to Tiger brokers but the best I’ve found and that’ll save you fees in the future is this: You’ll have to open a bank account in Singapore. Basically, you transfer your monies to an SG bank account (you can use services like Transferwise etc to save on fees) and then from there into your Tiger Broker’s account.

Another transfer method to note is to use Wise which is integrated directly into the Tiger Trade APP, as part of a collaboration with Tiger Brokers. This method is fast and easy once it is set up. More info can be found here: https://www.tigerbrokers.com.sg/help/detail/87168024.

What I’ll be Using

As of 2025, I am now using only MooMoo Malaysia and Rakuten Trade for my stock trading needs.

As always, my Facebook, Instagram. Follow, keep up to date.

Because of Tiger Broker’s low fee structure, I’ll be looking to add a ton of long-term international stocks here. Especially US shares.

Love the rewards I get from trading as well in the form of Tiger Coins.

End.

Account opening rewards are looking good and you get rewards as you trade and invest.

If you’ve yet to sign up and want to, use the registration link hERE. Check out the full details of the promotion hERE.

Disclaimer

This post is sponsored by Tiger Brokers.

T&Cs apply. Please visit our website for other applicable fees: https://www.tigerbrokers.com.sg/commissions/fees.

This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.

Kenanga Digital Investing (KDI) – An Review of KDI Save and KDI Invest

By
Filed Under: Investment, Robo-Advisor 8

Fully Automated Robo Advisor

Another new addition to the Robo-advisor stratosphere! This time from Kenanga and it is called Kenanga Digital Investing (KDI). The platform is fully A.I.-driven with little to no human involvement. Most of the Robo-advisors we have in Malaysia right now are a mix of A.I. plus fund manager’s decisions. The only other similar one is from MyTheo.

Is Kenanga Digital Investing (KDI) Safe?

First off, they’re licensed by the Securities Commission (SC). In terms of governance and licensing, that is as safe as it can get.

As for its execution, the algorithm used by Kenanga Digital Investing is fully A.I.-driven with machine learning capabilities. In the online briefing I attended, Kenanga mentioned that they’ve backtested all the portfolios from 2004. The results shown and presented to us were positive.

Kenanga Digital Investing – KDI Save and KDI Invest

KDI Save – Cash Management Fund

KDI offers two main products to clients and investors. The first is their Cash Management Fund (CMF) – KDI Save. They’re offering fixed returns at 3.0% p.a. with zero fees and calculated on a daily basis. This is one of the highest I’ve seen. And, you don’t have to start off with a huge amount, the minimum is RM100. However, it is capped at RM200,000, anything above that, it’ll be a 2.25% return p.a. Still decent.

KDI Invest – A.I. Driven Investing

KDI Invest is further broken down into five different funds based on your risk profile.

  1. Very Conservative
  2. Conservative
  3. Balanced
  4. Growth
  5. Aggressive Growth

From the backtesting results (from 2004 to 2021) I sighted during KDI’s briefing, the annualized return for the five funds ranges from 6% to 14%. The maximum drawdown was in the range of 10% to 16% for all five funds. Which is pretty damn good.

Kenanga Digital Investing – How to Register?

The steps from registration to execution are simple and straightforward. Before that, there is a special promotion for Dividend Magic readers.

Promo and Referral Code

Click Here to Sign Up
Referral code: 100108

Using the above link, you’ll receive RM20 for free upon successful activation of your account with a minimum transacted amount of RM100 into KDI Save or RM250 into KDI Invest. This RM20 will be paid out within 30 days.

Do also note that this promotion is only applicable to the first 500 successful referrals and valid up to 31st May 2022.

The next step to registering is to key in your personal details and to take a clear picture of the front and back of your IC.

You then answer a few simple questions regarding your investment goals and horizon. You’ll be recommended with one of the five portfolios based on your answers. However, you’re still free to pick one on your own. As I’ve still got a long time-horizon ie. 20+ years, I went with the KDI Invest – Aggressive Growth portfolio.

Benefits Kenanga Digital Investing (KDI) – What sets it apart?

Their cash management fund – KDI Save is currently one of the best I’ve found. No fees, a 3% return, and one-day withdrawals. It is perfect for my emergency funds now instead of placing them in fixed deposits or a savings account. I plan to move my funds here. Keep in mind that funds over RM200K earn a lower rate of 2.25%. Which is still higher than FDs!

As for KDI Invest, I’m happy with the returns shown from their backtesting. Would love to see them go further back than 2004 though. I’ll be trying this out for a year and then compare it to my returns from my investments in StashAway.

The fully A.I.-driven approach sounds good to me, and the maximum drawdowns, even for their most aggressive portfolio was only 16%.

Lastly, FEES! I know how everyone, myself included is always concerned about fees. KDI Invest employs a tiered system.

The fees are in line with other Robo-advisors, even cheaper at some tiers. They’re also not charging anything for investments RM3,000 and below.

Also to note, the minimum investment amount is RM250.

How will I use Kenanga Digital Investing (KDI)

I’m definitely going for their cash management fund – KDI Save. And I’ll be testing the waters first with RM3,000 in KDI Invest for a few months. If all is good, I’ll be doing DCA via Kenanga Digital Invest for the long term.

MIDF Invest Review

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Filed Under: Dividends 10

As of 2025, I am now using only MooMoo Malaysia and Rakuten Trade for my stock trading needs.

This review of MIDF Invest will cover Malaysia’s first brokerage that gives us access to international stocks at a cheap and competitive rate.

I’ve long been advocating against using local brokerages for international stocks. But with MIDF Invest, I can finally change my stance. No longer will we be charged once locally, and then again internationally, and vice versa when we sell said stock.

I digress, back to our new favorite local broker – MIDF Invest.

MIDF Invest – Registration & Account Opening

To get started, you’ll first have to download the app here:
https://link-to.app/LeighLee

The registration process can be completed in 10 minutes to 24h in most cases according to MIDF.

Mine took less than 24 hours as I did it at night.

You have to:

  1. Submit front and back pictures of your IC;
  2. Record a 20 seconds video;
  3. Receive and submit SMS verification;
  4. Receive and submit email verification;
  5. Create your PW; and
  6. Answer questions.

MIDF Invest – Brokerage Fees & Rates

MIDF’s rates are as above, which are pretty self-explanatory. You get 16 free trades if the trade value is <$1,000 per trade for the first 30 days. Thereafter, you move on to the Investor or Trader category depending on how often you trade.

The other fees you’ll need to pay attention to are the Stamp Duty and SEC Clearing Fees.

Stamp Duty is RM1 for every RM1,000 and capped at RM200.
Clearing Fee is 0.00051% of the total sale value, rounded up to the nearest cent.

The rates are pretty competitive when compared to our local brokers. It might be beneficial to make full use of your Explorer status during the first month.

From the calculator from MIDF above, a $1,932 trade will incur a $12.64 total fee. That’s about 0.65% in total fees per trade.

As for dividends, there are no extra charges there. Thank god. There will only be the standard withholding tax based on the country you bought the shares from.

Forex Rate

As I have yet to use MIDF’s platform at the time of this article, I cannot confirm the forex rates. However, the MIDF team has assured me that it is competitive and pretty standard. There are no forex fees charged by MIDF, just a straight-through conversion based on the day’s forex rates.

Interest on Cash Balances

Investors will also be given a small return in the form of interest for unutilized cash held in MYR in your MIDF Invest account. None for balances held in other currencies.

Another feature I confirmed with MIDF was that once your shares are sold, it will not be automatically converted back to MYR. For example, after selling a US stock, the cash will be held in USD. This is a good thing as we won’t be subject to unnecessary forex conversion.

Safety & Legitimacy

As far as I’m concerned, going through a local brokerage is as safe as it gets for us Malaysians. They’re of course regulated by the Securities Commission. MIDF is also wholly owned by our very own Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB).

If you didn’t already know, Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB) is one of the largest fund management companies in Malaysia with assets under management (AUM) of RM322.6 billion (as of 31 December 2020).

And the ASNB mutual funds we love so much are handled by PNB.

MIDF Invest – Comparisons

Right now, as a local broker offering access to international stocks, MIDF is in the lead in terms of fees (which matters a lot). Other local brokers ie Maybank, CIMB, Public Bank, HL Bank etc do offer us Malaysians access, however, the fees are way too high for retail investors like us. I cite a previous example where I received a net dividend of ZERO dollars after all the fee deductions for my investment in Vanguard ETF through Hong Leong.

So, vs local brokers, MIDF is top. If we look at online international brokers like eToro, Tiger Brokers TD, and Interactive Brokers, MIDF losses out in terms of fees.

The trade-off? You get a regulated broker and peace of mind as a Malaysian with a local broker. This is especially important if you’re planning a huge investment in international stocks.

Another advantage of using a local brokerage is the ease of transfer of funds. You can easily inject more capital within minutes.

Moving Forward

I have opened an account with MIDF but I have yet to deposit any money. I do plan to hold long-term ETFs and dividend stocks through MIDF.

With MIDF being the first (AFAIK) relatively cheap brokerage, we have with access to international stocks, it will be interesting to see if our other brokers step up their game in offering better rates.

End.

I’ll be giving MIDF a trial run soon. My plan is to purchase and hold ETFs through the platform for now. Vanguard’s S&P 500 ETF will be my first buy. Might even be building up a big portfolio of ETFs and some long-term dividend stocks.

I’ll also be updating and inserting MIDF Invest into my previous comparison post soon. So keep an eye out for that.

As of 2025, I am now using only MooMoo Malaysia and Rakuten Trade for my stock trading needs.