The conflict comes when the advisor NEEDS the business. IF the business is just a want, and not a need, there is noting to be thinking about (conflict of interest, putting their interest over theirs) generally for most people. Of course, we still have unethical rich people. So, even if they are rich, it doesn't change their behaviour to not be black sheeps.

If you are looking at general concepts, module 1 of CFP or ChFC or even M9 paper would be sufficient knowledge. The actual planning for low income groups require understanding their unique situation and to reduce expenses and increase income (both are very challenging for them), because they have extremely limited resources, and also trying to keep themselves sane (spending on an ice cream cone of $0.50 is already considered a luxury). Its easier if you work with government subsidises and to manage their expectations. They likely may not even have budget for insurance.

Lets look at what is condescending first. treating someone as if you are more important or more intelligent than them: showing that you consider yourself better or more intelligent : Both are about feelings of better or more intelligent than others. However, it has a negative meaning behind because the one that is condescended is made (or perceive) to feel that he is "not as good as" the other person. So it points more to the delivery of the message instead of the actual content... If you feel that way, you do not need to work with them.

Hi, I buy over such policies. But as you only paid the first year, we are unlikely to takeover because the opportunity cost is very low (and returns for us is very low). As Ernest Suggest, it makes sense to understand the opportunity cost and also whether you can reliably do your investments. You cannot be panicky when markets drop and "sell low buy high". I hope you understand but in mathematical terms, do a cost benefit analysis and give yourself a decision. Such plans are like putting into CPF SA hence i would normally compare it with 4% opporunity cost. (even if you can't invest wisely), and SA top up can be stored anytime. Of course, everyone's situation is unique. Please understand before taking advice from anyone.

CPF is one of the best around. Why not seek to understand CPF first for retirees? A bigger payout is more sustainable with a higher lumpsum imho. Or annuity plans (but less liquidity). But if you are an accredited investor or ex-FA who can do claims, then can consider 2nd hand insurance policies that give potential 4% returns, and 2% gauranteed returns. Because there are some inherent risk which retail investors may not be able to resolve.

Oh boy. This is difficult even for FAs unless they have very good comparison tables. Focus on the ones that you need for your trip, for example, trip curtailment, and READ the exclusion clauses etc. You pay for what you get, usually. If you do not require some additional beenfits of the travel policy, then do not buy it if the premium is higher than a comparable (but isn't that easy) plan.

The opportunity cost to life insurance currently is still low. (except for insurability). It starts to be expensive once you get to age 28 and by age 32, the premium increment to coverage is high. Make your play, since life insurance is for dependents and liabilities (like loans to be paid off). Look into growing your income if possible. Investment is only worth it once you have at least $200,000 capital for dividend and management of the investment funds for returns.

There are good loans and bad loans. Good loans are those that even a high interest savings account can potentially beat the interest rates (anything that is 2.6% and below). You should stretch your dollar to invest those monies (as long as you can afford the cashflow for 1 year). Bad loans are those that is above 4% p.a. this is because, even CPF SA (risk free) cannot beat it. Unless you are able to beat the interest, it does not justify to take that risk.

Term plans are the highest leverage in terms of insurance protection (not those to 99 but to age 65). Buy only what you need, based on the coverage, and your investment returns that you can nett. Do comparison of BTIR and Whole Life and choose the one that fits you. I have studied so many plans that I can safely say, ECI plans, comparing to whole life, you need a 6% p.a BTIR (before age 30) to beat it. CI plans, have a 4% BTIR to beat it Life plans, just a 2% BTIR to beat it. Make sense of what you can, because these are just guidelines and best to use facts and figures to support it.

You can consider Elastiq Etiqa where you can do top up as it is a semi-psuedo bank account which describe what you need. However, there is a minimum holding period of 3 months and a minimum sum of $5,000.00. (about 1.8% p.a) I think a higher interest saving account might suit you better instead since the interest are similar.