The Aesthete’s Edition

The quote in this issue that resonates the most with me is from cover person Oi-Yee Choo, a mum of two teenage girls and CEO of digital securities exchange ADDX: “Financial education should be a life skill, no matter what path an individual takes. It needs to be a fundamental part of the curriculum, but it is not recognised today.”

As technology advances and new investment vehicles rapidly emerge, we’re riding the greatest wave of market democratisation in modern history. And I don’t mind admitting that despite not being a teenager, I do need a good sit down on making smart, considered decisions in building sustainable wealth.

In the same way Oi-Yee allows herself to invest in certain things for “personal enjoyment” (watches and art), I have my interests too (mostly in 750ml bottles). It was therefore an honour to co-host a round-table with insurance brokerage IPG Howden (page 36) on asset class evolution. Every expert, from wealth advisors and private bankers to fintech founders, was also a passion investor. One of them owned 1,000 watches, and another had launched South-east Asia’s first whisky-based token.

Whether it is art, fashion, craftsmanship, food or nature, we all appreciate beauty. There are just some people who invest more in artful possessions than others.

With pages dedicated to fashion, horology, art, and interior design, and with perspectives shared by leaders in their fields, this issue is for you – The Aesthete.