Madison Malone, a prominent journalist from New Zealand, is embarking on a new journey as she transitions to independent journalism through platforms like YouTube. Malone, the host of the podcast “Markets with Madison,” recently shared her vision and motivations during an episode of the Media Insider podcast. She explained her decision to produce content independently and outlined her plans for a new show, emphasizing a shift towards greater freedom in her work.

In her conversation, Malone reflected on her early fascination with news, recalling how her childhood routine involved watching the 6 PM television news. “I remember – well, I don’t remember but I’ve been told numerous times in my life – that I was always watching the news,” Malone shared. This deep-rooted interest has now evolved into a desire to create her own narrative, away from traditional media constraints.

The concept of “tall poppy syndrome,” a cultural phenomenon in which successful individuals are criticized or resented, was also discussed. Malone believes this mindset is gradually fading, suggesting that audiences are becoming more supportive of independent voices in journalism. She hopes that her new platform will allow her to explore topics with a fresh perspective, unencumbered by established media practices.

Malone’s shift to independence comes at a time when many journalists are seeking alternatives to traditional media outlets. With the rise of digital platforms, the landscape of news consumption is rapidly changing. According to a report by the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism, independent journalism is gaining traction, especially among younger audiences who prefer diverse sources of information.

As Malone prepares for this new chapter, she is focused on building a community around her content. She aims to engage directly with her audience, fostering a space for open dialogue and discussion. Her commitment to transparency and authenticity is evident in her plans for the new show, which will cover a range of topics relevant to her viewers.

In a media environment often criticized for bias and sensationalism, Malone’s independent approach may resonate with those seeking more credible and relatable journalism. By leveraging platforms like YouTube, she plans to reach a broader audience and provide insights that reflect her unique voice and perspective.

As she embarks on this independent journey, Malone is poised to contribute to the evolving narrative of journalism in New Zealand and beyond. Her commitment to authentic storytelling and engagement may set a new standard for how journalists connect with their audiences in the digital age.

Moomoo Singapore has officially surpassed 1.5 million users, marking a significant achievement in the company’s growth and influence within the retail investing landscape. This milestone was announced during MooFest 2025, held on July 12, 2025, at the Suntec Convention Centre, where the event attracted nearly 4,000 attendees, including investors, partners, and community members.

Themed ‘The Future of Wealth, Reimagined,’ MooFest 2025 focused on how innovation and accessibility are reshaping investment opportunities for everyday Singaporeans. Gavin Chia, CEO of Moomoo Singapore, emphasized the importance of this user growth, stating that it reflects the platform’s integration into the nation’s financial ecosystem. He noted that this new user count represents one in two Singapore residents aged 20 to 70.

This achievement indicates a 50% increase in user growth within just 15 months since reaching the 1 million user mark in April 2024. Chia highlighted the blend of intuitive technology, financial education, and community support as key drivers of this surge.

Investor Success Amid Market Volatility

During his keynote address, Chia revealed that nearly 70% of Moomoo Singapore’s clients reported profitability over the past year, despite volatile market conditions in the first half of 2025. Equities remain the most popular investment choice, constituting almost 60% of successful portfolios, while wealth management products accounted for 26%.

Chia attributed this success to a proactive investment strategy. He noted that investors adjusted their portfolios in response to market shifts, reducing their exposure to the US market while increasing their investments in Hong Kong and maintaining a steady position in Singapore. “The data is clear: informed, agile investors who stay the course continue to find opportunities, even in challenging environments,” he said.

The event also introduced Moomoo AI, an advanced investment assistant designed to help users make informed decisions by analyzing stocks and tracking market trends through a user-friendly interface. This tool delivers real-time insights by combining financial data, technical indicators, and the latest news tailored to user queries.

Expansion into Digital Assets

Moomoo Singapore is doubling down on its digital asset offerings, having successfully launched crypto trading in 2024. As of July 15, 2025, it remains the only licensed online broker in Singapore to provide these services. According to its recent Retail Investor Sentiment Survey, nearly 8% of investors plan to increase their cryptocurrency exposure in the latter half of 2025, a sentiment that rises to 30% among high-risk investors.

In response to this emerging demand, Moomoo plans to introduce new crypto products and enhanced analytics to assist users in diversifying their portfolios.

MooFest featured over 50 speakers from various financial institutions and included panel discussions focused on navigating the evolving market landscape. Sessions covered topics such as macroeconomic trends, digital finance integration, and the rise of AI in investing. The discussions aimed to translate Moomoo Singapore’s technological advancements into actionable strategies for everyday investors.

The event also highlighted Moomoo’s commitment to deepening its local market presence. Key initiatives announced included the linkage to CDP for seamless access to SGX-listed stocks and the upcoming launch of boutique physical stores. These stores will blend digital convenience with personalized support, creating hubs for financial education and community engagement.

As Moomoo Singapore continues to innovate, its mission remains clear: to empower retail investors with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to successfully navigate the markets. Chia concluded, “What we’re building at Moomoo goes far beyond a trading platform. We’re shaping the future of retail investing — one that’s smarter, more inclusive, and deeply connected to the needs of the next generation.”

With 1.5 million users and growing, Moomoo Singapore’s trajectory reflects its commitment to fostering a more confident retail investing culture, not just within Singapore but across the region.

The Great Taste biking trail in Tasman, New Zealand, has been closed until further notice following significant damage estimated at over $2 million due to recent flooding and landslips. This trail, which spans 200 kilometres, has faced repeated weather-related challenges in the Nelson-Tasman region, affecting its usability and safety for cyclists.

The Nelson Tasman Cycle Trails Trust reported that while some sections of the trail had reopened after the initial deluge in June, the heavy rains on Friday have further compromised these areas. Trail manager Belinda Crisp highlighted the ongoing difficulties in assessing the trail’s condition, stating, “We are dealing with multiple weather events in close succession, which is making it extremely difficult to fully assess the state of the trail, let alone begin repairs in some areas.”

Safety concerns are paramount, as many parts of the trail are currently deemed unsafe or inaccessible due to slips, flooding, windfall, and structural issues. Crisp noted that several bridges have been washed away, complicating recovery efforts.

Economic Impact and Recovery Plans

The Great Taste biking trail is crucial for the local economy, generating approximately $34 million annually and supporting numerous small businesses that depend on tourism. Crisp emphasized the trail’s importance for local commerce and the urgency of restoring access.

According to Gillian Wratt, chair of the trust, preparations for repair and reconstruction are underway, although it is unclear whether funding from the national Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) will fully cover the costs. “We are fortunate that a national fund exists to support cycle trail recovery after extreme weather events,” Wratt stated. “However, it’s still too early to know whether that funding will cover the full cost of the necessary work.”

Wratt reassured the community that the trust is committed to restoring as much of the trail as possible by summer. Yet, she acknowledged that some sections will require significant time and resources due to engineering challenges and the need for renegotiations regarding access.

As the situation develops, the trust is focused on balancing safety with the need to reopen the trail for the benefit of the local economy. The community remains hopeful that with diligent effort, the Great Taste biking trail can be restored to its former glory, welcoming visitors back to explore its scenic routes.

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) has released a report highlighting significant changes in banking and investment behaviors as the population ages. The bank stresses the need for the financial industry to prepare for these long-term shifts, which may introduce new risks to the financial system.

According to co-author Enzo Cassino, over the next 25 years, the demographic changes are expected to result in higher savings and altered investment patterns. These shifts will likely impact interest rates, bank lending, and the insurance sector. Cassino noted that there will be a decreased demand for housing loans as older individuals gravitate towards lower-risk investments, such as term deposits.

“Overall, we think there will be lower demand for housing loans and higher deposits as older people seek to hold more in safer investments,” Cassino explained. “This will affect the business models that banks are currently utilizing.”

The report also forecasts a similar impact on the insurance sector, predicting an increased demand for health insurance and a reduced need for life insurance. This trend toward increased savings is expected to place upward pressure on interest rates and elevate the value of assets like housing and shares.

Implications for Financial Institutions

The anticipated demographic shift may prompt banks to redirect lending strategies towards other sectors. With an increase in domestic savings and capital sources, institutions could find themselves borrowing less from overseas. Cassino aims to alert banks and financial businesses to the potential changes and their implications.

“We want to encourage banks and other financial institutions to consider how an older population will impact their business model over the coming decades,” Cassino stated. “The greatest risk may be that these institutions are not preparing for these changes and how they will affect them.”

Despite the significant changes outlined in the report, Cassino emphasized that the RBNZ is not raising alarms regarding financial stability at this time. The report will be included in the upcoming RBNZ Financial Stability Report, set to be published in November.

The findings serve as a wake-up call for financial institutions to adapt to a rapidly aging population and the consequent shifts in consumer behavior, ensuring they remain resilient and responsive to future challenges.