Thursday, May 31, 2007

Arrival!!

K, took the MRT to Kranji then the 170 bus to the checkpoint. Should have bought a single paper bus ticket- cos due to the getting out and off- we may have incurred an extra fee using the ezycard - but its only about $2 or so.

The taxi ride from the checkpoint cost RM$40 (about Aussie $10) for a thirty minute ride. But it beats the hassle of getting back onto the bus.

The air ride was ok. But when we landed- we seemed to be gliding down forever- and when we landed we took forever to stop. I felt my flesh being peeled off as the pilot tried to stop the plane.

It was a scary moment.

Currently waiting in Semporna for dawn now- the last ferry to Sipadan left at 1pm- we got to the jetty at 3pm.

Still we made some new friends - one of them, Joe is an experienced diver with over 300 dives under his belt. He even swam to the sunked HMS Repulse


Wednesday, May 30, 2007

Arrival!!

K, took the MRT to Kranji then the 170 bus to the checkpoint. Should have bought a single paper bus ticket- cos due to the getting out and off- we may have incurred an extra fee using the ezycard - but its only about $2 or so.

The taxi ride from the checkpoint cost RM$40 (about Aussie $10) for a thirty minute ride. But it beats the hassle of getting back onto the bus.

The air ride was ok. But when we landed- we seemed to be gliding down forever- and when we landed we took forever to stop. I felt my flesh being peeled off as the pilot tried to stop the plane.

It was a scary moment.

Currently waiting in Semporna for dawn now- the last ferry to Sipadan left at 1pm- we got to the jetty at 3pm.

Still we made some new friends - one of them, Joe is an experienced diver with over 300 dives under his belt. He even swam to the sunked HMS Repulse


Arrival!!

K, took the MRT to Kranji then the 170 bus to the checkpoint. Should have bought a single paper bus ticket- cos due to the getting out and off- we may have incurred an extra fee using the ezycard - but its only about $2 or so.

The taxi ride from the checkpoint cost RM$40 (about Aussie $10) for a thirty minute ride. But it beats the hassle of getting back onto the bus.

The air ride was ok. But when we landed- we seemed to be gliding down forever- and when we landed we took forever to stop. I felt my flesh being peeled off as the pilot tried to stop the plane.

It was a scary moment.

Currently waiting in Semporna for dawn now- the last ferry to Sipadan left at 1pm- we got to the jetty at 3pm.

Still we made some new friends - one of them, Joe is an experienced diver with over 300 dives under his belt. He even swam to the sunked HMS Repulse


Cradle Mountain Tasmania




Did the Overland Trek via Cradle Mountain. 80km. We covered it in about 9 days. It was very tough, esp. at the start when we had to climb each step of the way with our packs filled with food. Advisable only for experienced hikers. Its tough and you're guaranteed to lose 10kg by the end of the whole trip.

The best time to go is during Summer: January - February. Be careful climbing the mountains like Barns Bluff, and Mt Ossa cos when the weather turns nasty- it gets dag nasty wet, cold, and windy very quickly. The wind chill can be deadly. Nearly had a bad accident climbing Ossa due to this.

Avoid taking canned food - like stewed beef - its mostly water and you have to carry the cans out of the reserve- and they weigh a ton.

Salami would be good- hard crackers too - plenty of coffee, lemonade, tea, milo, and horlicks satchels would be essential. You're going to be drinking a lot.

Confectioneries like gum drops - (sour) fruit pastilles- the Rowentree Blackcurrent jellies - really help. They moisturize the mouth and prevent it from getting dry- and provide some welcome relief. On the other hand, chocolates, mars bars, didn't taste so great after the 3rd day.

Bring your own stove with a mini-portable gas heater- open fires are not allowed in the Park.

Every 10 km there will be a resting cabin where you can find fresh rain water - in tanks. No flush toilets tho but they provide rice husk... ya, gross.

A topography map of the place - would be useful too. I bought mine at the Wilderness Shop for $10.

Due Diligence: best to trial your hiking buddies first before attempting this hike. You never know how they can turn out on such long journeys. Half way thru I was carrying two big tents, 3 sleeping bags - and ended up very pissed off. One of the dudes had an "ankle injury" and got me to carry his stuff, including his tent. But it did look very sus (suspicious) when he ran straight up Mount Ossa. I promptly dumped his kit after that - together with the other personal stuff I was carrying for the rest of my "team".

I learnt to take plenty of time to just chill out and not rush so much.

The Overland Trek- and indeed Tasmania- is a beautiful place to hike in. But to me the experience is only as good as the company you keep. Otherwise it can leave you feeling very hollow.

Tuesday, May 29, 2007

Water Tornado hits Singapore!!!

This... is ... unbelievable. Click on the link- watch.

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=water+spout+singapore&search=Search


Water Tornado hits Singapore!!!

This... is ... unbelievable. Click on the link- watch.

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=water+spout+singapore&search=Search

Synear, Sunvic, Mediaring



This is an example of a chart breakdown. Buyers who got in at $2. People like me - had to start selling at $1.95.

I sold some but held some back - thinking that the dip would be temporary- the volume wasn't all that big either. However more sellers are starting to hammer the thing down.

Its hard to say whether its just market manipulation or some horrible news around the corner. Bugger if I know. But I sold Synear today. The chart looks positively dangerous now - coupled with the recent market volatility.

Missed out also on Sunvic today. Put in an order to buy this morning @ 62 then later withdrew it. The chart looks positively sweet. But I'm off to Sipadan for my holiday on Wednesday and I didn't want to have any overhanging stuff and didn't feel like chancing a situation where SUNVIC just drifted along. Hmm... a better idea would have been to buy a small portion with a strict stop loss.

The main concern for share traders (and investors) esp. during times of market volatility is to seek to protect capital. Because if you lose your capital - or allow it to get stuck in downward trending shares- you're trapped. I've been in that situation before. Its a horrible place to be in.

Hmmm... I baulk at trying to explain Mediaring to my mum though. She's asked me to get it last week when it was at 40 cents. She got a tip from her friend's son who used to work for the company and mouthed out some old news. But the chart looked crap. And now it spiked up 10% today. This happens quite a fair bit with the old girl. She tells me to buy something because her hairdresser's son or squash buddy etc.. says some rubbish piece of news about a shit penny counter. I don't buy. And the idiot share runs up. Of course, the times when I do oblige her- the stock flat-lines. Groan.... I can't wait for her to return back to Australia.

Synear, Sunvic, Mediaring



This is an example of a chart breakdown. Buyers who got in at $2. People like me - had to start selling at $1.95.

I sold some but held some back - thinking that the dip would be temporary- the volume wasn't all that big either. However more sellers are starting to hammer the thing down.

Its hard to say whether its just market manipulation or some horrible news around the corner. Bugger if I know. But I sold Synear today. The chart looks positively dangerous now - coupled with the recent market volatility.

Missed out also on Sunvic today. Put in an order to buy this morning @ 62 then later withdrew it. The chart looks positively sweet. But I'm off to Sipadan for my holiday on Wednesday and I didn't want to have any overhanging stuff and didn't feel like chancing a situation where SUNVIC just drifted along. Hmm... a better idea would have been to buy a small portion with a strict stop loss.

The main concern for share traders (and investors) esp. during times of market volatility is to seek to protect capital. Because if you lose your capital - or allow it to get stuck in downward trending shares- you're trapped. I've been in that situation before. Its a horrible place to be in.

Hmmm... I baulk at trying to explain Mediaring to my mum though. She's asked me to get it last week when it was at 40 cents. She got a tip from her friend's son who used to work for the company and mouthed out some old news. But the chart looked crap. And now it spiked up 10% today. This happens quite a fair bit with the old girl. She tells me to buy something because her hairdresser's son or squash buddy etc.. says some rubbish piece of news about a shit penny counter. I don't buy. And the idiot share runs up. Of course, the times when I do oblige her- the stock flat-lines. Groan.... I can't wait for her to return back to Australia.

Water Tornado hits Singapore!!!

This... is ... unbelievable. Click on the link- watch.

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=water+spout+singapore&search=Search


Monday, May 28, 2007

Synear, Sunvic, Mediaring



This is an example of a chart breakdown. Buyers who got in at $2. People like me - had to start selling at $1.95.

I sold some but held some back - thinking that the dip would be temporary- the volume wasn't all that big either. However more sellers are starting to hammer the thing down.

Its hard to say whether its just market manipulation or some horrible news around the corner. Bugger if I know. But I sold Synear today. The chart looks positively dangerous now - coupled with the recent market volatility.

Missed out also on Sunvic today. Put in an order to buy this morning @ 62 then later withdrew it. The chart looks positively sweet. But I'm off to Sipadan for my holiday on Wednesday and I didn't want to have any overhanging stuff and didn't feel like chancing a situation where SUNVIC just drifted along. Hmm... a better idea would have been to buy a small portion with a strict stop loss.

The main concern for share traders (and investors) esp. during times of market volatility is to seek to protect capital. Because if you lose your capital - or allow it to get stuck in downward trending shares- you're trapped. I've been in that situation before. Its a horrible place to be in.

Hmmm... I baulk at trying to explain Mediaring to my mum though. She's asked me to get it last week when it was at 40 cents. She got a tip from her friend's son who used to work for the company and mouthed out some old news. But the chart looked crap. And now it spiked up 10% today. This happens quite a fair bit with the old girl. She tells me to buy something because her hairdresser's son or squash buddy etc.. says some rubbish piece of news about a shit penny counter. I don't buy. And the idiot share runs up. Of course, the times when I do oblige her- the stock flat-lines. Groan.... I can't wait for her to return back to Australia.

My friendster webpage

http://profiles.friendster.com/yauming
Hardly really use it- due to the hassles of uploading photos and video on friendster - but it is useful for networking.
http://profiles.friendster.com/yauming

Sunday, May 27, 2007

Lessons on Children

I read a profound poem written by Kahlil Gibran:

It goes like this...

Your children are not your children.
They are the sons and daughters of Life's longing for itself.
They come through you but not from you,
And though they are with you,
yet they belong not to you.
You may give them your love but not your thoughts.
For they have their own thoughts.
You may house their bodies but not their souls,
For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow,
which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.
You may strive to be like them,
but seek not to make them like you.
For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterday.

You are the bows from which your children as living arrows are sent forth.
The archer sees the mark upon the path of the infinite,
and He bends you with His might
that His arrows may go swift and far.
Let your bending in the archer's hand be for gladness;
For even as he loves the arrow that flies,
so He loves also the bow that is stable.

Tivoli Audio Radio Model 1


Just bought the Tivoli Audio Radio Model No.1. And it looks and sounds beautiful. Just love that Retro 1950s look.

Its simple. Elegant. And for a unit that has no eternal antenna and a rather small mono speaker- produces great music!!!

I got it at a shop in Sim Lim for S$210. It appears to be cheaper in America tho- retails for S$156 (US$101) over there.

However, a year ago when I was in Australia I was thinking of getting it - and it cost double - S$450!!! (AUD$300)- must be the Aussie sales taxes.

Lessons on Children

I read a profound poem written by Kahlil Gibran:

It goes like this...

Your children are not your children.
They are the sons and daughters of Life's longing for itself.
They come through you but not from you,
And though they are with you,
yet they belong not to you.
You may give them your love but not your thoughts.
For they have their own thoughts.
You may house their bodies but not their souls,
For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow,
which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.
You may strive to be like them,
but seek not to make them like you.
For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterday.

You are the bows from which your children as living arrows are sent forth.
The archer sees the mark upon the path of the infinite,
and He bends you with His might
that His arrows may go swift and far.
Let your bending in the archer's hand be for gladness;
For even as he loves the arrow that flies,
so He loves also the bow that is stable.

Tivoli Audio Radio Model 1


Just bought the Tivoli Audio Radio Model No.1. And it looks and sounds beautiful. Just love that Retro 1950s look.

Its simple. Elegant. And for a unit that has no external antenna and a rather small mono speaker- produces great music!!!

I got it at a shop in Sim Lim for S$210. It appears to be cheaper in America tho- retails for S$156 (US$101) over there.

However, a year ago when I was in Australia I was thinking of getting it - and it cost double - S$450!!! (AUD$300)- must be the Aussie sales taxes.

Lessons on Children

I read a profound poem written by Kahlil Gibran:

It goes like this...

Your children are not your children.
They are the sons and daughters of Life's longing for itself.
They come through you but not from you,
And though they are with you,
yet they belong not to you.
You may give them your love but not your thoughts.
For they have their own thoughts.
You may house their bodies but not their souls,
For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow,
which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.
You may strive to be like them,
but seek not to make them like you.
For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterday.

You are the bows from which your children as living arrows are sent forth.
The archer sees the mark upon the path of the infinite,
and He bends you with His might
that His arrows may go swift and far.
Let your bending in the archer's hand be for gladness;
For even as he loves the arrow that flies,
so He loves also the bow that is stable.

Tivoli Audio Radio Model 1


Just bought the Tivoli Audio Radio Model No.1. And it looks and sounds beautiful. Just love that Retro 1950s look.

Its simple. Elegant. And for a unit that has no eternal antenna and a rather small mono speaker- produces great music!!!

I got it at a shop in Sim Lim for S$210. It appears to be cheaper in America tho- retails for S$156 (US$101) over there.

However, a year ago when I was in Australia I was thinking of getting it - and it cost double - S$450!!! (AUD$300)- must be the Aussie sales taxes.

Saturday, May 26, 2007

Trade not reversed!

Seems that one broker at DMG made the error. But the SGX may not reverse the trade.

Most likely the people who bought the stock at 27 cents are refusing to comply - they (or he/she) made a profit of over $4 million dollars. Most likely they're on the plane to Bora Bora now- early retirement.


DJ 2nd UPDATE: DBS Trade Causes STI Swoon; Trade Not Reversed (2007-05-25 03:26:00)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By John Jannarone & Frankie Ho

Of DOW JONES NEWSWIRES

SINGAPORE (Dow Jones)--Singapore''s blue chip Straits Times Index briefly plunged 11% at the start of trading Friday due to a bungled trade involving shares of DBS Holdings Ltd. (D05.SG).

In a trade executed by DMG & Partners, some 187,000 DBS shares changed hands at S$0.27 each, causing the STI to plunge 406 points to a 10-week low of 3124 points in the first minute of trading. DBS shares closed Thursday at S$24.50.

The index quickly recovered, but the Singapore Exchange hasn''t determined whether it will allow the trade to be reversed.

"There was an error trade in DBS," an exchange spokesperson told Dow Jones Newswires. "At this point the trade has not been reversed. We are analyzing the trade and there''s no confirmation on whether or not it will be reversed."

If the trade isn''t reversed, the seller would incur about S$4.4 million in losses to exit the position.

A senior broker at DMG said the trade was supposed to be for warrants but the mother shares were accidentally keyed in.

He said the trade is likely to be reversed as the price was far outside the usual trading range for DBS shares.

Another dealer said that the misplaced trade didn''t cause a lasting disturbance, and market conditions normalized quickly.

"It''s really liquidity that''s driving the market. When the market goes down, you don''t see huge sellers or buyers. Investors just stay out and don''t do anything at all," he said. "Once the market U-turns and goes back up, everyone just comes in again."

The STI was down 1.2% at 3488.79 in midmorning trade. DBS was down 2.4% at S$23.90.

DBS down 90% WTF???

Dismal opening on the SGX this morning. I was watching my screen when I noticed... WTF!! DBS is down 90% ???? I clicked on the DBS page and whoa... sh1t. Someone was selling DBS (a $23.00 blue chip stock) at 27 cents. I couldn't believe my eyes! There it was DBS a $23+ stock was going for ... peanuts. But the error was quickly detected and the buyers moved swiftly back in.

The problem is that at the opening most traders haven't put up their bids yet- so there's hardly anyone out there to buy or sell, and shit can happen. So this poor bastard- placed in an incorrect bid involving several hundred thousand shares (worth millions of dollars) - and got taken out.

The chart shows the horror.



The SGX reported it as thus:

DJ MARKET TALK: STI Off 1.2%; Rebounds From Morning Plunge (2007-05-25 01:36:00)


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------



0136 GMT [Dow Jones] Error trade involving DBS (D05.SG) shares sent STI plunging more than 400 points in opening minute to almost 10-week low of 3124. But problem rectified with index now down 1.2% at 3488.26. Dealer at local brokerage says error involved sale of 187 lots of DBS shares at S$0.27 each; "possibly some remisier was trying to sell a warrant, but clicked on DBS instead." DBS down 2.4% at S$23.90. (FKH)
____________________________________________________________________


The SGX has swiftly moved to cancel the trade and to make amends. As you can see from this quote screen they've X crossed the trades. Curiously, an earlier crossed trade of a higher amount was also cancelled.

But its an embarrassment for all concerned, including the Singapore Stock Exchange- cos it shows up the failings of the system we are using. The SGX was down 500 points for a minute due to that error- and no doubt also caused other traders to press the panic button and start selling. Hopefully, they'd rectify this sort of error and prevent it from happening.

So whenever someone is typing this sort of order in- the computer will flash a BIG WARNING message on the screen.

The problem is that - even for me- when I put in the orders online- I don't even get a message which shows me a detailed summary of the order. Easy for mistakes to happen.

Trade not reversed!

Seems that one broker at DMG made the error. But the SGX may not reverse the trade.

Most likely the people who bought the stock at 27 cents are refusing to comply - they (or he/she) made a profit of over $4 million dollars. Most likely they're on the plane to Bora Bora now- early retirement.


DJ 2nd UPDATE: DBS Trade Causes STI Swoon; Trade Not Reversed (2007-05-25 03:26:00)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By John Jannarone & Frankie Ho

Of DOW JONES NEWSWIRES

SINGAPORE (Dow Jones)--Singapore''s blue chip Straits Times Index briefly plunged 11% at the start of trading Friday due to a bungled trade involving shares of DBS Holdings Ltd. (D05.SG).

In a trade executed by DMG & Partners, some 187,000 DBS shares changed hands at S$0.27 each, causing the STI to plunge 406 points to a 10-week low of 3124 points in the first minute of trading. DBS shares closed Thursday at S$24.50.

The index quickly recovered, but the Singapore Exchange hasn''t determined whether it will allow the trade to be reversed.

"There was an error trade in DBS," an exchange spokesperson told Dow Jones Newswires. "At this point the trade has not been reversed. We are analyzing the trade and there''s no confirmation on whether or not it will be reversed."

If the trade isn''t reversed, the seller would incur about S$4.4 million in losses to exit the position.

A senior broker at DMG said the trade was supposed to be for warrants but the mother shares were accidentally keyed in.

He said the trade is likely to be reversed as the price was far outside the usual trading range for DBS shares.

Another dealer said that the misplaced trade didn''t cause a lasting disturbance, and market conditions normalized quickly.

"It''s really liquidity that''s driving the market. When the market goes down, you don''t see huge sellers or buyers. Investors just stay out and don''t do anything at all," he said. "Once the market U-turns and goes back up, everyone just comes in again."

The STI was down 1.2% at 3488.79 in midmorning trade. DBS was down 2.4% at S$23.90.

DBS down 90% WTF???

Dismal opening on the SGX this morning. I was watching my screen when I noticed... WTF!! DBS is down 90% ???? I clicked on the DBS page and whoa... sh1t. Someone was selling DBS (a $23.00 blue chip stock) at 27 cents. I couldn't believe my eyes! There it was DBS a $23+ stock was going for ... peanuts. But the error was quickly detected and the buyers moved swiftly back in.

The problem is that at the opening most traders haven't put up their bids yet- so there's hardly anyone out there to buy or sell, and shit can happen. So this poor bastard- placed in an incorrect bid involving several hundred thousand shares (worth millions of dollars) - and got taken out.

The chart shows the horror.



The SGX reported it as thus:

DJ MARKET TALK: STI Off 1.2%; Rebounds From Morning Plunge (2007-05-25 01:36:00)


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------



0136 GMT [Dow Jones] Error trade involving DBS (D05.SG) shares sent STI plunging more than 400 points in opening minute to almost 10-week low of 3124. But problem rectified with index now down 1.2% at 3488.26. Dealer at local brokerage says error involved sale of 187 lots of DBS shares at S$0.27 each; "possibly some remisier was trying to sell a warrant, but clicked on DBS instead." DBS down 2.4% at S$23.90. (FKH)
____________________________________________________________________


The SGX has swiftly moved to cancel the trade and to make amends. As you can see from this quote screen they've X crossed the trades. Curiously, an earlier crossed trade of a higher amount was also cancelled.

But its an embarrassment for all concerned, including the Singapore Stock Exchange- cos it shows up the failings of the system we are using. The SGX was down 500 points for a minute due to that error- and no doubt also caused other traders to press the panic button and start selling. Hopefully, they'd rectify this sort of error and prevent it from happening.

So whenever someone is typing this sort of order in- the computer will flash a BIG WARNING message on the screen.

The problem is that - even for me- when I put in the orders online- I don't even get a message which shows me a detailed summary of the order. Easy for mistakes to happen.

Friday, May 25, 2007

Trade not reversed!

Seems that one broker at DMG made the error. But the SGX may not reverse the trade.

Most likely the people who bought the stock at 27 cents are refusing to comply - they (or he/she) made a profit of over $4 million dollars. Most likely they're on the plane to Bora Bora now- early retirement.


DJ 2nd UPDATE: DBS Trade Causes STI Swoon; Trade Not Reversed (2007-05-25 03:26:00)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By John Jannarone & Frankie Ho

Of DOW JONES NEWSWIRES

SINGAPORE (Dow Jones)--Singapore''s blue chip Straits Times Index briefly plunged 11% at the start of trading Friday due to a bungled trade involving shares of DBS Holdings Ltd. (D05.SG).

In a trade executed by DMG & Partners, some 187,000 DBS shares changed hands at S$0.27 each, causing the STI to plunge 406 points to a 10-week low of 3124 points in the first minute of trading. DBS shares closed Thursday at S$24.50.

The index quickly recovered, but the Singapore Exchange hasn''t determined whether it will allow the trade to be reversed.

"There was an error trade in DBS," an exchange spokesperson told Dow Jones Newswires. "At this point the trade has not been reversed. We are analyzing the trade and there''s no confirmation on whether or not it will be reversed."

If the trade isn''t reversed, the seller would incur about S$4.4 million in losses to exit the position.

A senior broker at DMG said the trade was supposed to be for warrants but the mother shares were accidentally keyed in.

He said the trade is likely to be reversed as the price was far outside the usual trading range for DBS shares.

Another dealer said that the misplaced trade didn''t cause a lasting disturbance, and market conditions normalized quickly.

"It''s really liquidity that''s driving the market. When the market goes down, you don''t see huge sellers or buyers. Investors just stay out and don''t do anything at all," he said. "Once the market U-turns and goes back up, everyone just comes in again."

The STI was down 1.2% at 3488.79 in midmorning trade. DBS was down 2.4% at S$23.90.

DBS down 90% WTF???

Dismal opening on the SGX this morning. I was watching my screen when I noticed... WTF!! DBS is down 90% ???? I clicked on the DBS page and whoa... sh1t. Someone was selling DBS (a $23.00 blue chip stock) at 27 cents. I couldn't believe my eyes! There it was DBS a $23+ stock was going for ... peanuts. But the error was quickly detected and the buyers moved swiftly back in.

The problem is that at the opening most traders haven't put up their bids yet- so there's hardly anyone out there to buy or sell, and shit can happen. So this poor bastard- placed in an incorrect bid involving several hundred thousand shares (worth millions of dollars) - and got taken out.

The chart shows the horror.



The SGX reported it as thus:

DJ MARKET TALK: STI Off 1.2%; Rebounds From Morning Plunge (2007-05-25 01:36:00)


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------



0136 GMT [Dow Jones] Error trade involving DBS (D05.SG) shares sent STI plunging more than 400 points in opening minute to almost 10-week low of 3124. But problem rectified with index now down 1.2% at 3488.26. Dealer at local brokerage says error involved sale of 187 lots of DBS shares at S$0.27 each; "possibly some remisier was trying to sell a warrant, but clicked on DBS instead." DBS down 2.4% at S$23.90. (FKH)
____________________________________________________________________


The SGX has swiftly moved to cancel the trade and to make amends. As you can see from this quote screen they've X crossed the trades. Curiously, an earlier crossed trade of a higher amount was also cancelled.

But its an embarrassment for all concerned, including the Singapore Stock Exchange- cos it shows up the failings of the system we are using. The SGX was down 500 points for a minute due to that error- and no doubt also caused other traders to press the panic button and start selling. Hopefully, they'd rectify this sort of error and prevent it from happening.

So whenever someone is typing this sort of order in- the computer will flash a BIG WARNING message on the screen.

The problem is that - even for me- when I put in the orders online- I don't even get a message which shows me a detailed summary of the order. Easy for mistakes to happen.

Stuff I collect: Noritake, Staunton etc..


Noritake Arlene design circa 1950s. (not to be confused with Arlene 1930s design). Cream plate with decal flowers - silver trim. Note the delicate flower design. This really is one of the best and most elegant designs Noritake came up with.

Still beautiful after over 50 years of use.

I like to collect pretty things, beautiful objects, well made. Lately, I've been collecting old teak and ebony Jacques Martin Staunton chess sets and old Nortitake porcelain pieces..

The staunton chess set that you see comes from England- made in the 19th century. The king alone weighs about 10g and is filled with lead. Usually they sell for about $1,000 per set. I bought mine for about $200 including postage.
They are very very hard to come by though.

Noritake is a famous Japanese porcelain company that started in the 19th century. You can read about their history here:
http://www.noritakecollectorsguild.info/

Noritake gives special name to its different design sets: like Alice, Arlene, Arabesque, Doral. Glenwood, Smithfield, Shangrila etc..

I collect the Noritake Arlene. I love its floral chic country pattern design.

Vintage Noritake is worth collecting - its elegant, well made, well designed, long lasting and very popular, you can pick up an old tea set on eBay for less than $100. (Postage is another matter though)

There are two types of Noritake Arlene. A fine bone china type - with gold trim and elaborate flower decal marking - made in the 1930s. Some of the individual flowers appear to be hand painted. Its got a lovely tinkling sound when you rest the cup and saucer together.

In the 1950s and 1960s, Noritake simplified the design and made it cream with silver trim. The porcelain was made slightly thicker. The old elaborate flower design was replaced with a subtle country chic rose and grey leave design. I prefer the newer one - plus its easier to collect.

Nonetheless the two different Noritake Arlene tea cups are beautifully made - exquisite - with no sign of cracks/ crazying or age discoloration !!!

Fine bone china - means the porcelain is thin enough to allow the tea/coffee to rapidly cool and thus enable the drinker to sip and drink from a freshly poured hot cup without getting scalded.

The porcelain that is currently being made now are more hardier - I think its refered to as "stone" wear.

You probably can purchase fine bone china today - but it would cost a fortune. Personally I'd avoid English made porcelain.

I also take great pleasure in purchasing these antique Noritake sets because they are such great value for money. You can purchase a good set for about $100 - $300.

But I try and collect just one particular variety - "the Arlene". Otherwise my house would become way too cluttered. Oh wait, it already is. Fail. However if I can pick up another set for a very cheap price, I don't mind. Recently I purchased a Doral set (made in the 1990s) for $16.49. Cheaper than paper plates.

In Singapore, it is harder to purchase old porcelain sets - because the 2nd hand market for porcelain is weak.

You have to be patient or just lucky. I had the good fortune to find and purchase a perfect Smithfield set- still in the original Noritake cardboard boxes and paper wrapping for $228 here in Singapore 2 years back. I think it was the owner's old wedding present - never used. I felt like I had found lost treasure. haha.

Drinking from a beautiful fine bone china cup makes me feel oh so civilized. :)

Royal Tenenbaums

Rating:★★★★★
Category:Movies
Genre: Comedy
You know what cool is? Cool is doing something great effortlessly. And that is why I just love the movie Royal Tenenbaums. Its about this misfit family beginning with- the father, "Royal", is a selfish bombastic ass of a lawyer who doesn't think twice about stealing from his kids, Etheline, the mother, is an urban archaeologists who later attracts a string of bizarre suitors, and the kids well... played with deadpan precision by Ben Stiller, Clive Owens, Paltrow etc. Clive Owens plays an outstanding performance as "the nerdy kid next door" who dreams of being part of the wacky family.

Read the reviews here- at www.imdb.com.

You get plenty of ironic, dead-pan humor, sometimes hilarious, sometimes just sweet and funny, and some of the best satires on New Yorkers... Brilliant acting and directing.

On a sidenote, I found the peculiar painting on Eli Cash (Owen Wilson's) flat very funny for some reason.

Anyhow, if you have nothing better to do on a Sunday night. Go watch it. Borrow it on DVD or VHS.

Its one of the best movies made.

Thursday, May 24, 2007

Chilly Day




Snow Blizzard on Bulla. Reminds me of a story a survivor from a failed Mt Everest expedition. Asked whether he wanted to go back there, he replied, "No! I'd rather put myself naked in a deep freezer, cover myself with a white blanket, and hammer my head with an ice pick."

But personally I found the snow blizzard a lot of fun. A different experience perhaps but it was strangely exhilaratingly to be in. Guess my chi or metabolic rate was in the right place!

Ready to go skiing?




Sam gives some useful tips on skiing... all of them are snowboarding... I was the only skier... :(

Skiing in Australia/NZ


It looked as if the whole sky was aflame. I marvel at God's beauty and creation.

I took this photo at the evening on Perisher Blue Mountain, NSW, Australia 2004.

Amazing what a simple camera can do.

Perisher Blue NSW. Hotham, Bulla, Falls Creek. And also Cardona, Coronet Peak, Remarkables at Queenstown New Zealand. 1997 - 2005. Good times. Some of the best moments in my life were spent there - living in hand carved stone cottages with open roaring fireplaces, drinking red wine, vodka lemonade, cooking great food and just chilling out looking at a winter white wonderland.

Or doing silly things like placing a sixpack of Lemon Ruskis outside to chill- only to wake up next morning and finding it buried under 6 feet of fresh snow. My friends nearly died laughing watching me dig out the LRs...

All of this adventures would not be possible if not for one remarkable person - Joy Khoo, good friend, organizer extraordinaire, skilled dentist, exercise queen, and a wonderful Christian.

Great Times, Great Friends. Hope to go skiing with them soon.

Why can't these moments last forever?

But with virtually everyone else married and settled down, paying off mortgages and investment properties and planning for their 2nd baby - I doubt it :(

Wednesday, May 23, 2007

ultimate frisbee@sentosa -19 May 07

Check out the rest of the photos of the beach party at Steven's site
Click here!!
Link



The UN is a joke

The UN is a joke. Read the article below and see why.

Read the full article here
James Allan: Iran, Syria, Zimbabwe: are you laughing yet? When outlaws run UN committees, global community is a dubious concept: May 22, 2007

Read below for the summary

LISTEN carefully and you will hear regular appeals to "the international community" or to "the UN" or to "what the rest of the world thinks".

Start with the UN itself. The old UN Commission on Human Rights was dismantled in June last year for being ineffective, biased, ridiculous. In its place we have the UN Human Rights Council, with 47 member countries. And in its short lifespan it has already made nine resolutions criticising human rights abuses.

Sounds good, right? Well, not one of those resolutions was critical of Sudan (over Darfur), or Zimbabwe, or China, or anywhere, save Israel. Yes, Israel is the only country this new body has criticised (on nine separate occasions, no less) for rights abuses. Gee, nothing to be sceptical about in that.

How about the UN Commission on the Status of Women? At its 2007 annual conference, when surveying the plight of women around the entire world, what countries did it single out? Saudi Arabia, maybe, where women aren't allowed to drive and are liable to be stoned to death? Or big chunks of Africa? Or Afghanistan? Nope. Apparently the only country that warranted a resolution for violating women's rights was, wait for it, Israel.

Or how about this? The UN Commission on Sustainable Development, which is charged with economic development and the environment, just elected as its chairman Zimbabwe. Yes, Zimbabwe, which has annual inflation of more than 2200% and whose economy is contracting by more than 5% a year.

Or what about the UN's Disarmament Commission? Iran was just elected to serve as vice-chairman, with Syria as rapporteur. Even George Orwell couldn't satirize that!

Oh, the countries on that above-mentioned UN Human Rights Council include Egypt, Saudi Arabia, China, Cuba, Angola, Azerbaijan and others whose advice on human rights might not strike you as terribly persuasive, which is no doubt why those people who don't like the outcomes of democratic politics tend to phrase their appeals in vague, amorphous terms ("the international community") rather than in specifics ("here's what Robert Mugabe and the Baath party of Syria think about the proper level of treatment for women and minorities").

Need more examples of "interesting" countries on various agencies and bodies? Here are just a few. Committee on Information: China and Kazakhstan. World Food Program executive board: Sudan and Zimbabwe (for some reason North Korea missed out, despite its famine). International Labour Organisation Governing Body (the one lots of union officials like to appeal to): Saudi Arabia (that bastion of generous treatment to non-citizen workers).

Now, I know that some readers - those who have more than a passing acquaintance with the whole international law superstructure and who, one supposes, get the odd invitation to conferences across the world or are asked to serve in some paid role here or there - like to say that these examples are all on the political side of the UN. Forget all that, they'll say (well, at least if you get a few drinks into them). The real work, they assure you, takes place in the various treaty bodies, the groups of "experts" who report on the many human rights treaties in existence.

So, any room for scepticism there? I think that depends on whether you're a democrat at heart or you're more inclined towards aristocratic, philosopher-king, judicial-activism type of government.

James Allan is a professor of law at the University of Queensland.

The UN is a joke

The UN is a joke. Read the article below and see why.

Read the full article here
James Allan: Iran, Syria, Zimbabwe: are you laughing yet? When outlaws run UN committees, global community is a dubious concept: May 22, 2007

Read below for the summary

LISTEN carefully and you will hear regular appeals to "the international community" or to "the UN" or to "what the rest of the world thinks".

Start with the UN itself. The old UN Commission on Human Rights was dismantled in June last year for being ineffective, biased, ridiculous. In its place we have the UN Human Rights Council, with 47 member countries. And in its short lifespan it has already made nine resolutions criticising human rights abuses.

Sounds good, right? Well, not one of those resolutions was critical of Sudan (over Darfur), or Zimbabwe, or China, or anywhere, save Israel. Yes, Israel is the only country this new body has criticised (on nine separate occasions, no less) for rights abuses. Gee, nothing to be sceptical about in that.

How about the UN Commission on the Status of Women? At its 2007 annual conference, when surveying the plight of women around the entire world, what countries did it single out? Saudi Arabia, maybe, where women aren't allowed to drive and are liable to be stoned to death? Or big chunks of Africa? Or Afghanistan? Nope. Apparently the only country that warranted a resolution for violating women's rights was, wait for it, Israel.

Or how about this? The UN Commission on Sustainable Development, which is charged with economic development and the environment, just elected as its chairman Zimbabwe. Yes, Zimbabwe, which has annual inflation of more than 2200% and whose economy is contracting by more than 5% a year.

Or what about the UN's Disarmament Commission? Iran was just elected to serve as vice-chairman, with Syria as rapporteur. Even George Orwell couldn't satirize that!

Oh, the countries on that above-mentioned UN Human Rights Council include Egypt, Saudi Arabia, China, Cuba, Angola, Azerbaijan and others whose advice on human rights might not strike you as terribly persuasive, which is no doubt why those people who don't like the outcomes of democratic politics tend to phrase their appeals in vague, amorphous terms ("the international community") rather than in specifics ("here's what Robert Mugabe and the Baath party of Syria think about the proper level of treatment for women and minorities").

Need more examples of "interesting" countries on various agencies and bodies? Here are just a few. Committee on Information: China and Kazakhstan. World Food Program executive board: Sudan and Zimbabwe (for some reason North Korea missed out, despite its famine). International Labour Organisation Governing Body (the one lots of union officials like to appeal to): Saudi Arabia (that bastion of generous treatment to non-citizen workers).

Now, I know that some readers - those who have more than a passing acquaintance with the whole international law superstructure and who, one supposes, get the odd invitation to conferences across the world or are asked to serve in some paid role here or there - like to say that these examples are all on the political side of the UN. Forget all that, they'll say (well, at least if you get a few drinks into them). The real work, they assure you, takes place in the various treaty bodies, the groups of "experts" who report on the many human rights treaties in existence.

So, any room for scepticism there? I think that depends on whether you're a democrat at heart or you're more inclined towards aristocratic, philosopher-king, judicial-activism type of government.

James Allan is a professor of law at the University of Queensland.

Beach, Babes and a Frisbee


Bill and Michelle, his lovely girlfriend. Apparently Bill has conveyed some good news to Mich. Hence the look of joy on her face. :)

Some more photos of the game at Sentosa. Every so often, the frisbee gang go to places to have our game and a little party.

Hopefully, one day we can all go to Koh Samui (Thailand) and have a game THERE. lol. Wouldn't that be uber cool!?? The plane rides to Thailand are cheap as. So its not as unlikely as you think.

ultimate frisbee@sentosa -19 May 07

Check out the rest of the photos of the beach party at Steven's site
Click here!!
Link

Tuesday, May 22, 2007

ultimate frisbee@sentosa -19 May 07

Check out the rest of the photos of the beach party at Steven's site
Click here!!
Link



Abandoned Mansion - Botanical Gardens Singapore 2




Tysersall House: former residence in Singapore for the Sultan of Johor. Located next to the Botanical Gardens and MacRitchie Reservoir. This shows the garden and exterior area. Its a massive estate- could be about 100,000 sq metres.

The UN is a joke

The UN is a joke. Read the article below and see why.

Read the full article here
James Allan: Iran, Syria, Zimbabwe: are you laughing yet? When outlaws run UN committees, global community is a dubious concept: May 22, 2007

Read below for the summary

LISTEN carefully and you will hear regular appeals to "the international community" or to "the UN" or to "what the rest of the world thinks".

Start with the UN itself. The old UN Commission on Human Rights was dismantled in June last year for being ineffective, biased, ridiculous. In its place we have the UN Human Rights Council, with 47 member countries. And in its short lifespan it has already made nine resolutions criticising human rights abuses.

Sounds good, right? Well, not one of those resolutions was critical of Sudan (over Darfur), or Zimbabwe, or China, or anywhere, save Israel. Yes, Israel is the only country this new body has criticised (on nine separate occasions, no less) for rights abuses. Gee, nothing to be sceptical about in that.

How about the UN Commission on the Status of Women? At its 2007 annual conference, when surveying the plight of women around the entire world, what countries did it single out? Saudi Arabia, maybe, where women aren't allowed to drive and are liable to be stoned to death? Or big chunks of Africa? Or Afghanistan? Nope. Apparently the only country that warranted a resolution for violating women's rights was, wait for it, Israel.

Or how about this? The UN Commission on Sustainable Development, which is charged with economic development and the environment, just elected as its chairman Zimbabwe. Yes, Zimbabwe, which has annual inflation of more than 2200% and whose economy is contracting by more than 5% a year.

Or what about the UN's Disarmament Commission? Iran was just elected to serve as vice-chairman, with Syria as rapporteur. Even George Orwell couldn't satirize that!

Oh, the countries on that above-mentioned UN Human Rights Council include Egypt, Saudi Arabia, China, Cuba, Angola, Azerbaijan and others whose advice on human rights might not strike you as terribly persuasive, which is no doubt why those people who don't like the outcomes of democratic politics tend to phrase their appeals in vague, amorphous terms ("the international community") rather than in specifics ("here's what Robert Mugabe and the Baath party of Syria think about the proper level of treatment for women and minorities").

Need more examples of "interesting" countries on various agencies and bodies? Here are just a few. Committee on Information: China and Kazakhstan. World Food Program executive board: Sudan and Zimbabwe (for some reason North Korea missed out, despite its famine). International Labour Organisation Governing Body (the one lots of union officials like to appeal to): Saudi Arabia (that bastion of generous treatment to non-citizen workers).

Now, I know that some readers - those who have more than a passing acquaintance with the whole international law superstructure and who, one supposes, get the odd invitation to conferences across the world or are asked to serve in some paid role here or there - like to say that these examples are all on the political side of the UN. Forget all that, they'll say (well, at least if you get a few drinks into them). The real work, they assure you, takes place in the various treaty bodies, the groups of "experts" who report on the many human rights treaties in existence.

So, any room for scepticism there? I think that depends on whether you're a democrat at heart or you're more inclined towards aristocratic, philosopher-king, judicial-activism type of government.

James Allan is a professor of law at the University of Queensland.

Share Trading

One edge that truly great share traders have over ordinary punters - is that they don't care. Yes, they don't give a rat's arse about the market. They are totally unemotional - detached = over something which has such a great influence over their lives.

Why do you ask? Why?

Simple. If you have no vested emotion in a thing- you are in the best position to be totally rational and scientific and most importantly, impartial about the matter.

Once you start making judgments, having strong opinions, being excited about the stock market- you make it harder for yourself to make a honest assessment over the situation.


That's how most of the big time traders and investors stumble. They think they know. And really, unless you're God, you don't. The stock market can be unpredictable.

I've stopped share trading these last two weeks. It bothered me that the market was rising too high. But what really got to me - was that I couldn't seem to detach my emotions and feelings for the stocks. I found I couldn't do that, I kept on second guessing myself, worrying about minute details, and otherwise losing my cool and rational frame of mind. Emotional trading is the worse sort of drug to indulge in.

Anyhow for the moment, I'm sitting this market out for the moment. Meanwhile, I'm going to see a physio regarding my age old back problems. I had a good (and recommended) specialist doctor check it out - Doctor Low Wye Mum (#01-04, StarHub Centre: 67345830). Thankfully, he doesn't think I need to go for an MRI or X-Ray- but need to improve on my posture and muscle development. To this end he told me to go see a physio that specialises in back and neck injuries. I'll like you know how it goes.

Share Trading

One edge that truly great share traders have over ordinary punters - is that they don't care. Yes, they don't give a rat's arse about the market. They are totally unemotional - detached = over something which has such a great influence over their lives.

Why do you ask? Why?

Simple. If you have no vested emotion in a thing- you are in the best position to be totally rational and scientific and most importantly, impartial about the matter.

Once you start making judgements, having opinions, being excited about the stock market- you make it harder for yourself to give a honest assessment over the situation.

That's how most of the big time traders and investors stumble. They think they know. And really, unless you're God, you don't.

I've stopped share trading these last two weeks. It bothered me that the market was rising too high. But what really got to me - was that I couldn't seem to detach my emotions and feelings for the stocks. I found I couldn't do that, I kept on second guessing myself, worrying about minute details, and otherwise losing my cool and rational frame of mind. Emotional trading is the worse sort of drug to indulge in.

Anyhow for the moment, I'm sitting this market out for the moment. Meanwhile, I'm going to see a physio regarding my age old back problems. I had a good (and recommended) specialist doctor check it out - Doctor Low Wye Mum (#01-04, StarHub Centre: 67345830). Thankfully, he doesn't think I need to go for an MRI or X-Ray- but need to improve on my posture and muscle development. To this end he told me to go see a physio that specialises in back and neck injuries. I'll like you know how it goes.

Abandoned Mansion - Botanical Gardens Singapore




I took this video shot from the inside of Tyserall House. Its amazing that such a large estate- measuring over 50,000 sq metres- in the heart of Singapore - nexto the MacRitchie Reservoir and the Botanical Gardens- lies abandoned. The trees (and forest) you see are part of the estate.

Tyserall House, Singapore


The House is its heyday. Unfortunately, it was burnt down in the 1930s - and rebuilt again but not in the same style or luxury.

This is one of the great houses of Singapore. Great because of its grandeur and immense size. The former Sultan of Johor's palace- right next to MacRitchie Reservoir Reserve and the Botanical Gardens. Currently unoccupied - it was acquired by the Singapore Govt a few years back. It seems they are letting it slowly get destroyed by the elements. Its a huge estate - its over 500,000 sq feet if you include the gardens... more like forests. Check the photos out if you don't believe.

I paid it a visit two weeks ago. Quite spooky. I thought I saw a blue clad ghost coming down the stairs and decided not to venture upstairs. The magnificent photos marked DKHC were taken by Daniel K. Cheong many months ago. You can check out his magnificent photos here:
http://api.flickr.com/services/feeds/photos_public.gne?id=29789996@N00&tags=creepy&format=rss_200

BTW, I don't know Daniel personally. The first and last photos are from his site. The rest, including the videos, were taken by me with my trusty Canon IXUS40.

Monday, May 21, 2007

My Melbourne Friends


What a magical shot. Blue Sky. Great Beach. Wonderful friends.

Friends in my home in Melbourne Australia

F1 Trouble!!! Organizer threatens to pull out

Check it out- Bernie threatens to pull out F1 Racing.

In the meantime the govt decides to play the martyr. How typical.

F1 Racing to End

Share Trading

One edge that truly great share traders have over ordinary punters - is that they don't care. Yes, they don't give a rat's arse about the market. They are totally unemotional - detached = over something which has such a great influence over their lives.

Why do you ask? Why?

Simple. If you have no vested emotion in a thing- you are in the best position to be totally rational and scientific and most importantly, impartial about the matter.

Once you start making judgments, having strong opinions, being excited about the stock market- you make it harder for yourself to make a honest assessment over the situation.


That's how most of the big time traders and investors stumble. They think they know. And really, unless you're God, you don't. The stock market can be unpredictable.

I've stopped share trading these last two weeks. It bothered me that the market was rising too high. But what really got to me - was that I couldn't seem to detach my emotions and feelings for the stocks. I found I couldn't do that, I kept on second guessing myself, worrying about minute details, and otherwise losing my cool and rational frame of mind. Emotional trading is the worse sort of drug to indulge in.

Anyhow for the moment, I'm sitting this market out for the moment. Meanwhile, I'm going to see a physio regarding my age old back problems. I had a good (and recommended) specialist doctor check it out - Doctor Low Wye Mum (#01-04, StarHub Centre: 67345830). Thankfully, he doesn't think I need to go for an MRI or X-Ray- but need to improve on my posture and muscle development. To this end he told me to go see a physio that specialises in back and neck injuries. I'll like you know how it goes.

Sipadan Scuba Diving Trip

Start:     May 30, '07 01:00a
End:     Jun 3, '07
Itinerary in brief:-

Day 1 - Arrival Day (30th May 2007)

Guest arrived using AK5632 from Johor Bahru to Tawau at 1255/1540hrs. Meet by our staff at Tawau Airport upon arrival. Overland transfer to Semporna Seafest Hotel (70 minutes). Check in. Overnight in Seafest Hotel.

Day 2 - Kapalai (31st May 2007)

After breakfast, ready for check out from Seafest Hotel. Meet by our staff at Hotel Lobby at 0915hrs, overland transfer to our PSR Private Jetty for boat departure to Kapalai at 0930hrs. Boat journey will take about 40 minutes. Arrived Kapalai. Check in. Guest will one orientation dive + one boat dive in Kapalai. Lunch / Dinner & Overnight Kapalai.

(Breakfast Seafest/Lunch & Dinner Kapalai)

Day 3 & 4 - Full Stay in Kapalai (1st & 2nd June 2007)

Guest will have 3 boat dive daily.

Unlimited Jetty dive + night dive for Advanced PADI Diver

Other Activities : Swimming, Snorkelling & Ocean Kayaking

(Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner)

Day 5 - Departure Day (3rd June 2007)

After breakfast, free at leisure. Check out from Kapalai at 1100hrs after a light lunch. Proceed to Tawau Airport for flight AK5633 to Johor Bahru at 1605/1850hrs.

F1 Trouble!!! Organizer threatens to pull out

Check it out- Bernie threatens to pull out F1 Racing.

In the meantime the govt decides to play the martyr. How typical.

F1 Racing to End

Sentosa Frisbee Game May 19th




The Frisbee gang goes too Sentosa. Great time. Great Friends. Lovely Day. Wish you were here.

Ultimate Frisbee goes to Sentosa




The Frisbee Friendsters goto Sentosa!!! Here's a small video clip of the gang playing frisbee at Sentosa Tanjong beach last Saturday. Usually we're at play on Sunday avro (5.00pm) at the field next to Brewerks restaurant, Riverside Point, behind Clark Quey.

It was great fun - we had a great turnout - and getting a group of fun loving pple in the same place at the same time produces its own kind of magic. Special Thanks goes to Steven Chia for organizing the whole event (and for supplying the rum for our drinks later) and of course for everyone who showed up to make it a splendid afternoon!!!

BTW, the lovely couple featured in the photo are Alan and his wife, Judy.
Soundtrack Music courtesy of Their Majesty : Queen.

F1 Trouble!!! Organizer threatens to pull out

Check it out- Bernie threatens to pull out F1 Racing.

In the meantime the govt decides to play the martyr. How typical.

F1 Racing to End

Wednesday, May 16, 2007

Straight line graphing

I'm fond of straight line graphing. Because its simple. Easy to understand. And most of the time- its right. Check out the two graphs. Chartered and Jurtech.

Of course there will be other charts which will show otherwise. But in share trading, the main goal of the trader, imho, is to protect his capital+profits. If he doesn't do that- then eventually he would have lost the game.

Chartered- it was a great graph last month. Plenty of good volume and support. So I got in at $1.45. But when the MD or CEO came out and said it wasn't involved in any takeover discussions and they had a piss-weak report- bang - should have got out. Trouble was already brewing on the chart- when it deviated from the trend line.

I started selling at $1.43 which was the correct thing to do. Then I got excited by the sudden last push towards $1.45 and got back in again. Eventually, I exited from my positions at the dismal price of $1.34 - left it too late. Its tempting to jump back in at this level $1.26. But for now, I'm leaving it alone. I'd say its a buy if it ever hits $1. But not a stock for long term holding.

Jurtech- seemed quite interesting. I got in at 95 cents a few weeks ago. Straight away it powered to 98 cents and seemed to want to break pass $1.00. It didn't. I bailed at 95 cents, thankfully.

I don't mind holding the stock if it strays away from the straight line uptrend for a day or so- but any longer and I get nervous.



Best Interrogation Scene this week

Just saw this video on metacafe. You gotta watch it.

http://www.metacafe.com/watch/571624/police_secrite/

Straight line graphing

I'm fond of straight line graphing. Because its simple. Easy to understand. And most of the time- its right. Check out the two graphs. Chartered and Jurtech.

Of course there will be other charts which will show otherwise. But in share trading, the main goal of the trader, imho, is to protect his capital+profits. If he doesn't do that- then eventually he would have lost the game.

Chartered- it was a great graph last month. Plenty of good volume and support. So I got in at $1.45. But when the MD or CEO came out and said it wasn't involved in any takeover discussions and they had a piss-weak report- bang - should have got out. Trouble was already brewing on the chart- when it deviated from the trend line.

I started selling at $1.43 which was the correct thing to do. Then I got excited by the sudden last push towards $1.45 and got back in again. Eventually, I exited from my positions at the dismal price of $1.34 - left it too late. Its tempting to jump back in at this level $1.26. But for now, I'm leaving it alone. I'd say its a buy if it ever hits $1. But not a stock for long term holding.

Jurtech- seemed quite interesting. I got in at 95 cents a few weeks ago. Straight away it powered to 98 cents and seemed to want to break pass $1.00. It didn't. I bailed at 95 cents, thankfully.

I don't mind holding the stock if it strays away from the straight line uptrend for a day or so- but any longer and I get nervous.



Best Interrogation Scene this week

Just saw this video on metacafe. You gotta watch it.

http://www.metacafe.com/watch/571624/police_secrite/

Tuesday, May 15, 2007

Straight line graphing

I'm fond of straight line graphing. Because its simple. Easy to understand. And most of the time- its right. Check out the two graphs. Chartered and Jurtech.

Of course there will be other charts which will show otherwise. But in share trading, the main goal of the trader, imho, is to protect his capital+profits. If he doesn't do that- then eventually he would have lost the game.

Chartered- it was a great graph last month. Plenty of good volume and support. So I got in at $1.45. But when the MD or CEO came out and said it wasn't involved in any takeover discussions and they had a piss-weak report- bang - should have got out. Trouble was already brewing on the chart- when it deviated from the trend line.

I started selling at $1.43 which was the correct thing to do. Then I got excited by the sudden last push towards $1.45 and got back in again. Eventually, I exited from my positions at the dismal price of $1.34 - left it too late. Its tempting to jump back in at this level $1.26. But for now, I'm leaving it alone. I'd say its a buy if it ever hits $1. But not a stock for long term holding.

Jurtech- seemed quite interesting. I got in at 95 cents a few weeks ago. Straight away it powered to 98 cents and seemed to want to break pass $1.00. It didn't. I bailed at 95 cents, thankfully.

I don't mind holding the stock if it strays away from the straight line uptrend for a day or so- but any longer and I get nervous.



Best Interrogation Scene this week

Just saw this video on metacafe. You gotta watch it.

http://www.metacafe.com/watch/571624/police_secrite/

Friday, May 11, 2007

Life is a sideshow

Don't you ever get the feeling that life is a sideshow for a bigger event?

I had that distinct impression today.

What we do now echoes for eternity... but perhaps in some other realm.

Life is a sideshow

Don't you ever get the feeling that life is a sideshow for a bigger event?

I had that distinct impression today.

What we do now echoes for eternity... but perhaps in some other realm.

Thursday, May 10, 2007

Ab Oriente : Choral Concert


I love hearing the sound of beautiful singing- esp. music that incorporates the full harmony and complexity of the human voice. To date, only choral music (from the ancient past) has that.

Its difficult to find groups which can perform this sort of music. Its even harder to find them here in Singapore where such music is totally foreign and alien.

However I've been fortunate to being introduced to this music group - AB ORIENTE - comprised of talented well trained musicians who live here in Singapore. Its a small group numbering between 4 - 6.

Their first concert in 2004 at KK Methodist Church was absolutely magnificent. I thought I had died and gone to heaven. It was manna for the ears.

Their recent performance was at the Auditorium, The Arts Museum. They held two performances- I attended both of them. The second one on Saturday was delightful and worth hearing again. Go here to find out more about their next performance

http://www.ab-oriente.com/concert.htm


I invited nearly everyone I knew to go- but virtually everyone didn't show up. Its sad that a thing of beauty lies unnoticed. But I guess its just human nature. We go for things we love.

For samples of their music go here (but be warned that the music recording is raw and therefore not clear) http://www.ab-oriente.com/audio.htm

Ab Oriente : Choral Concert


I love hearing the sound of beautiful singing- esp. music that incorporates the full harmony and complexity of the human voice. To date, only choral music (from the ancient past) has that.

Its difficult to find groups which can perform this sort of music. Its even harder to find them here in Singapore where such music is totally foreign and alien.

However I've been fortunate to being introduced to this music group - AB ORIENTE - comprised of talented well trained musicians who live here in Singapore. Its a small group numbering between 4 - 6.

Their first concert in 2004 at KK Methodist Church was absolutely magnificent. I thought I had died and gone to heaven. It was manna for the ears.

Their recent performance was at the Auditorium, The Arts Museum. They held two performances- I attended both of them. The second one on Saturday was delightful and worth hearing again. Go here to find out more about their next performance

http://www.ab-oriente.com/concert.htm


I invited nearly everyone I knew to go- but virtually everyone didn't show up. Its sad that a thing of beauty lies unnoticed. But I guess its just human nature. We go for things we love.

For samples of their music go here (but be warned that the music recording is raw and therefore not clear) http://www.ab-oriente.com/audio.htm

Life is a sideshow

Don't you ever get the feeling that life is a sideshow for a bigger event?

I had that distinct impression today.

What we do now echoes for eternity... but perhaps in some other realm.

Emerald Hill




Emerald Road is a quaint street off busy Orchard Road - lined with historic colonial houses.

Ab Oriente : Choral Concert


I love hearing the sound of beautiful singing- esp. music that incorporates the full harmony and complexity of the human voice. To date, only choral music (from the ancient past) has that.

Its difficult to find groups which can perform this sort of music. Its even harder to find them here in Singapore where such music is totally foreign and alien.

However I've been fortunate to being introduced to this music group - AB ORIENTE - comprised of talented well trained musicians who live here in Singapore. Its a small group numbering between 4 - 6.

Their first concert in 2004 at KK Methodist Church was absolutely magnificent. I thought I had died and gone to heaven. It was manna for the ears.

Their recent performance was at the Auditorium, The Arts Museum. They held two performances- I attended both of them. The second one on Saturday was delightful and worth hearing again. Go here to find out more about their next performance

http://www.ab-oriente.com/concert.htm


I invited nearly everyone I knew to go- but virtually everyone didn't show up. Its sad that a thing of beauty lies unnoticed. But I guess its just human nature. We go for things we love.

For samples of their music go here (but be warned that the music recording is raw and therefore not clear) http://www.ab-oriente.com/audio.htm

Tuesday, May 08, 2007

Hamas Mouse

This has got to be a very sick joke. But I'm afraid it isn't.

Hamas uses Mickey Mouse to promote killing Jews.






Hamas Mouse

This has got to be a very sick joke. But I'm afraid it isn't.

Hamas uses Mickey Mouse to promote killing Jews.






Monday, May 07, 2007

Downfall of France

Once France was the centre of Europe. It dominated in all fields. They built the best ships. They developed the fastest planes. They led the world in the sciences. It was a safe place- people didn't need to lock their houses at night. All this has changed. Now the nation is falling apart. Why?

Read the answer here:

Can France be Saved by M. Gurfinkel

Fell asleep at Choir practice today

Oh crap. I totally zonked out at Choir practice this afternoon. Man it was embarrassing. I should have excused myself and just taken a cab back home and gone to sleep.

I've not been having good sleep lately. A big tropical house lizard has set up camp in the ceiling lofts in my room. Every so often it will emit a loud awful screeching sound and wakes me up throughout the night. No, I'm not going to hyperlink it- google it yourself. I so hate them.

I've tried to chase it out and even set up traps for it- but its fairly elusive. I think its hiding in the curtains- once I pulled open the curtains and it fell - splat- on the floor. It looked totally gross.

Anyhow, we had choir practice after church today. I felt ok but after lunch, and sitting in the air-con room, I was overcome by the Z-monster and fell dead asleep- whilst our conductor, Tong Jen was training us. I wonder whether I should apologize.

I couldn't concentrate on my notes- man I totally lost it today.

When the class finished I went straight home and fell on my bed. But darn it I didn't fall asleep!!! I was sweaty after the walk home... It took me awhile before I finally nodded off.

Downfall of France

Once France was the centre of Europe. It dominated in all fields. They built the best ships. They developed the fastest planes. They led the world in the sciences. It was a safe place- people didn't need to lock their houses at night. All this has changed. Now the nation is falling apart. Why?

Read the answer here:

Can France be Saved by M. Gurfinkel

Fell asleep at Choir practice today

Oh crap. I totally zonked out at Choir practice this afternoon. Man it was embarrassing. I should have excused myself and just taken a cab back home and gone to sleep.

I've not been having good sleep lately. A big tropical house lizard has set up camp in the ceiling lofts in my room. Every so often it will emit a loud awful screeching sound and wakes me up throughout the night. No, I'm not going to hyperlink it- google it yourself. I so hate them.

I've tried to chase it out and even set up traps for it- but its fairly elusive. I think its hiding in the curtains- once I pulled open the curtains and it fell - splat- on the floor. It looked totally gross.

Anyhow, we had choir practice after church today. I felt ok but after lunch, and sitting in the air-con room, I was overcome by the Z-monster and fell dead asleep- whilst our conductor, Tong Jen was training us. I wonder whether I should apologize.

I couldn't concentrate on my notes- man I totally lost it today.

When the class finished I went straight home and fell on my bed. But darn it I didn't fall asleep!!! I was sweaty after the walk home... It took me awhile before I finally nodded off.

Hamas Mouse

This has got to be a very sick joke. But I'm afraid it isn't.

Hamas uses Mickey Mouse to promote killing Jews.






Downfall of France

Once France was the centre of Europe. It dominated in all fields. They built the best ships. They developed the fastest planes. They led the world in the sciences. It was a safe place- people didn't need to lock their houses at night. All this has changed. Now the nation is falling apart. Why?

Read the answer here:

Can France be Saved by M. Gurfinkel

Fell asleep at Choir practice today

Oh crap. I totally zonked out at Choir practice this afternoon. Man it was embarrassing. I should have excused myself and just taken a cab back home and gone to sleep.

I've not been having good sleep lately. A big tropical house lizard has set up camp in the ceiling lofts in my room. Every so often it will emit a loud awful screeching sound and wakes me up throughout the night. No, I'm not going to hyperlink it- google it yourself. I so hate them.

I've tried to chase it out and even set up traps for it- but its fairly elusive. I think its hiding in the curtains- once I pulled open the curtains and it fell - splat- on the floor. It looked totally gross.

Anyhow, we had choir practice after church today. I felt ok but after lunch, and sitting in the air-con room, I was overcome by the Z-monster and fell dead asleep- whilst our conductor, Tong Jen was training us. I wonder whether I should apologize.

I couldn't concentrate on my notes- man I totally lost it today.

When the class finished I went straight home and fell on my bed. But darn it I didn't fall asleep!!! I was sweaty after the walk home... It took me awhile before I finally nodded off.

Sunday, May 06, 2007

U2, taxes and 3rd world aid

I find it odd that Bono from the band U2 has been urging govt leaders to raise the aid to 3rd world nations- meanwhile his music publishing company has shifted to the Netherland to get a better tax rate.

For years U2 was benefiting from Ireland's zero tax rate on musicians. Last year, the Irish govt decided to raise taxes on wealthy musicians. Seems fair doesn't it?

However U2 thought otherwise and promptly shifted its company overseas so that it could pay just 5%!!! U2 made about 110 million in 2005.

Meanwhile, Bono has been asking Ireland's Prime Minister to raise its share of overseas aid. Sounds quite hypocritical to me.

The Edge, defending the off-shore decision, argued:

'Our business is a very complex business. Of course we're trying to be tax-efficient. Who doesn't want to be tax-efficient?'

Yeah right. I bet next time his bank will be located in street with no name.

You can find out more details here

The Telegraph: U2 move their assets out


Bloomberg


U2 avoids tax and ask others to donate

You know what the solution is- a flat tax. Every one pays 10% on their gross income. If you don't pay the tax, you stay out of the country.

U2, taxes and 3rd world aid

I find it odd that Bono from the band U2 has been urging govt leaders to raise the aid to 3rd world nations- meanwhile his music publishing company has shifted to the Netherland to get a better tax rate.

For years U2 was benefiting from Ireland's zero tax rate on musicians. Last year, the Irish govt decided to raise taxes on wealthy musicians. Seems fair doesn't it?

However U2 thought otherwise and promptly shifted its company overseas so that it could pay just 5%!!! U2 made about 110 million in 2005.

Meanwhile, Bono has been asking Ireland's Prime Minister to raise its share of overseas aid. Sounds quite hypocritical to me.

The Edge, defending the off-shore decision, argued:

'Our business is a very complex business. Of course we're trying to be tax-efficient. Who doesn't want to be tax-efficient?'

Yeah right. I bet next time his bank will be located in street with no name.

You can find out more details here

The Telegraph: U2 move their assets out


Bloomberg


U2 avoids tax and ask others to donate

You know what the solution is- a flat tax. Every one pays 10% on their gross income. If you don't pay the tax, you stay out of the country.

U2, taxes and 3rd world aid

I find it odd that Bono from the band U2 has been urging govt leaders to raise the aid to 3rd world nations- meanwhile his music publishing company has shifted to the Netherland to get a better tax rate.

For years U2 was benefiting from Ireland's zero tax rate on musicians. Last year, the Irish govt decided to raise taxes on wealthy musicians. Seems fair doesn't it?

However U2 thought otherwise and promptly shifted its company overseas so that it could pay just 5%!!! U2 made about 110 million in 2005.

Meanwhile, Bono has been asking Ireland's Prime Minister to raise its share of overseas aid. Sounds quite hypocritical to me.

The Edge, defending the off-shore decision, argued:

'Our business is a very complex business. Of course we're trying to be tax-efficient. Who doesn't want to be tax-efficient?'

Yeah right. I bet next time his bank will be located in street with no name.

You can find out more details here

The Telegraph: U2 move their assets out


Bloomberg


U2 avoids tax and ask others to donate

You know what the solution is- a flat tax. Every one pays 10% on their gross income. If you don't pay the tax, you stay out of the country.

Saturday, May 05, 2007

U2, taxes and 3rd world aid

I find it odd that Bono from the band U2 has been urging govt leaders to raise the aid to 3rd world nations- meanwhile his music publishing company has shifted to the Netherland to get a better tax rate.

For years U2 was benefiting from Ireland's zero tax rate on musicians. Last year, the Irish govt decided to raise taxes on wealthy musicians. Seems fair doesn't it?

However U2 thought otherwise and promptly shifted its company overseas so that it could pay just 5%!!! U2 made about 110 million in 2005.

Meanwhile, Bono has been asking Ireland's Prime Minister to raise its share of overseas aid. Sounds quite hypocritical to me.

The Edge, defending the off-shore decision, argued:

'Our business is a very complex business. Of course we're trying to be tax-efficient. Who doesn't want to be tax-efficient?'

Yeah right. I bet next time his bank will be located in street with no name.

You can find out more details here

The Telegraph: U2 move their assets out


Bloomberg


U2 avoids tax and ask others to donate

You know what the solution is- a flat tax. Every one pays 10% on their gross income. If you don't pay the tax, you stay out of the country.

U2, taxes and 3rd world aid

I find it odd that Bono from the band U2 has been urging govt leaders to raise the aid to 3rd world nations- meanwhile his music publishing company has shifted to the Netherland to get a better tax rate.

For years U2 was benefiting from Ireland's zero tax rate on musicians. Last year, the Irish govt decided to raise taxes on wealthy musicians. Seems fair doesn't it?

However U2 thought otherwise and promptly shifted its company overseas so that it could pay just 5%!!! U2 made about 110 million in 2005.

Meanwhile, Bono has been asking Ireland's Prime Minister to raise its share of overseas aid. Sounds quite hypocritical to me.

The Edge, defending the off-shore decision, argued:

'Our business is a very complex business. Of course we're trying to be tax-efficient. Who doesn't want to be tax-efficient?'

Yeah right. I bet next time his bank will be located in street with no name.

You can find out more details here

The Telegraph: U2 move their assets out


Bloomberg


U2 avoids tax and ask others to donate

You know what the solution is- a flat tax. Every one pays 10% on their gross income. If you don't pay the tax, you stay out of the country.