Articles

Islamic Economics: Wage Maximisation by Prof.Dr.Belal Ehsan BaaquieView Belal Ehsan Baaquie
Islamic Finance

Islamic Economics: Wage Maximization

It is proposed that the wage maximization is one of the fundamental principles of Islamic economics, and should be counterposed to the profit maximization principle of private capital. Wage maximization needs to be analyzed for both the macroeconomy as well as for the microeconomy, since wage maximization has to be realized at the level of the firms of the microeconomy. A mathematical model for the Islamic macroeconomy is postulated that determines how to maximize macroe conomic wages. A model for a firm is proposed that pays minimum wages based on macroeconomic wage maximization. Wages can be further augmented by wages having a variable component based on profit and loss sharing with the firm, and which entails a degree of risk. Fixing the variable wage component results in the rate of profit of all firms becoming equal to the macroeconomic wage maximizing macroeconomic rate of profit. 

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Fiqh & Finance: Empowering Muslims in Navigating a New Economic Paradigm with Emerging Financial Tools
Islamic Finance

Notes from Fiqh & Finance: Empowering Muslims in Navigating a New Economic Paradigm with Emerging Financial Tools

At this point in history, the pace of practical developments in society is fast surpassing their ethical framing and religious jurispudential deliberations. One clear example is how we are far from reaching consensus in determining the permissublility of cryptocurrencies and other emerging financial tools in accordance to Islam. While some scholars and religious organisations have ruled cryptocurrencies as haram (prohibited), others hold an an opposing opinion.

Through a sharing on the diversity of approaches and views from a critical lens and Islamic Juristic perspective, the notes shared aims to foster a nuanced understanding of Islamic Financial ethics within contemporary financial landscape and explore a roadmap for Muslims to navigate and thrive in the complexities of today’s economic world, empowered, and guided by maqasid and Islamic principles.

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Kickstarting your Personal Finance Journey
Personal Finance

How to Kickstart Your Personal Finance Journey as a Muslim

Managing finances through an Islamic lens involves a comprehensive approach, encompassing budgeting, investments, protection, and future planning. By adhering to these financial principles, Muslims can build a stable foundation for their families and contribute positively to society while remaining true to their faith.

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Spot Bitcoin ETFs Unveiled: A Halal investor's guide
Investing For Muslims

Spot Bitcoin ETFs Unveiled: A Halal investor’s guide.

In a groundbreaking development, the approval of 11 Spot Bitcoin ETFs by the SEC in 2024 mirrors the transformative introduction of gold-backed ETFs in 2004. This decision bears profound implications, shaping the legitimacy, accessibility, and exposure of cryptocurrencies. The entrance of major financial entities into the crypto space is anticipated to streamline capital inflows, providing a regulated and efficient avenue for investors. Regulatory approval not only fosters accountability and transparency but also mitigates risks associated with centralized exchanges. Investors now enjoy the convenience of accessing real-time Bitcoin prices through traditional investment accounts, coupled with the advantage of lower fees. Despite the positive performance of Bitcoin in 2023, potential risks, such as market volatility and regulatory challenges, necessitate careful consideration. The decision to incorporate Spot Bitcoin ETFs into a portfolio hinges on individual risk profiles and financial objectives, requiring consultation with a financial advisor. The future may witness the emergence of Shariah-compliant Bitcoin ETFs, presenting opportunities for the Islamic finance sector to establish a Sharia framework for crypto certification.

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Advancing The Esg Framework With Shariah Principles
Islamic Finance

Advancing The ESG Framework With Shariah Principles

In this paper, we explore how economic policy to support sustainability can coordinate efforts to tackle climate risk, overcome environmental challenges and ensure human security. The financial system faces very significant risks posed by climate change, as well as the transition to a low carbon economy. As such, the ESG framework as it is needs to be enhanced in order to be itself effective and sustainable. Hence, we propose an enhanced ESG framework that is grounded in strong Islamic fundamentals to anticipate gaps that can be exploited. Considering human relationships with the natural world from the perspective of Islamic teachings holds great promise for rethinking resource management and preservation. A fundamental role of humans in Islam is that of trustees of creation. The need to achieve sustainable economic development globally and its transition to a low-carbon economy requires strong policies and initiatives to drive green and sustainable finance for the purpose of achieving public policy objectives effectively.

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Singapore Islamic Finance Country Report 2024
Islamic Banking

Islamic Finance and Banking in Singapore: Country Report 2024

Singapore, famed for its ingenuity and perseverance in the face of shortage, has maintained its success trajectory in 2023. Sustained prosperity in the country has been attributed to its strategic focus on developing a highly qualified workforce, promoting a vibrant digital economy, preserving top-notch infrastructure and sustaining a strong regulatory framework. On the other hand, the Islamic finance industry, which has been largely founded on the efforts of private citizens and organizations, might seem young. Nonetheless, 2023 established the framework necessary for the success of creative Islamic financing projects. In the upcoming year, these programs aim to establish stronger foundations, promoting increased collaboration and growth.

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Ultimate Insurance Guide for Singapore Muslims
Insurance

Is Insurance Halal or Haram; The Complete Guide on life insurance and Takaful in Singapore

Are you unsure whether to cancel your non-shariah-compliant insurance policies or if takaful is available in Singapore? Do you wonder if insurance is necessary for sole breadwinners?  At Islamic Finance Singapore (IFSG), we receive countless inquiries about insurance. 
While we are not financial advisors, we hope this article can offer our community a simplified guide to understanding insurance in Singapore, from A to Z.

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Ultimate insurance guide for Singaporean Muslims
Insurance

Insurance & Takaful Guide for Singapore Muslims

“Should I surrender my current non-shariah-compliant insurance plans? But if I were to surrender, I’ll be at a loss.”, “Why is there no takaful in Singapore?”, “Do you think the hukum is Wajib for a sole breadwinner to purchase insurance?”. 

These are just some of the questions we receive at Islamic Finance Singapore (IFSG). Do note that we are not financial advisors. If the question comes above our expertise, we pass on these questions to the professionals in our network.

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Step by step guide on investing in 21 halal ETFs through IBKR
Investing For Muslims

Interactive Brokers (IBKR): A Comprehensive Review and Guide to Halal Investing

Trading stocks and ETFs can be a highly effective means of generating additional income or even a full-time livelihood for those who commit to it. In fact, over 48% of Singaporeans have already invested their money in stocks, emphasizing its popularity. If you’re considering entering the world of ETFs and stock trading, one of the primary decisions you’ll face is choosing a reliable stockbroker. Among the top-rated trading platforms for stocks and ETFs, Interactive Brokers stands out, catering to several countries, including Singapore.

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Singapore Islamic Finance Country Report
Islamic Finance

Singapore Islamic Finance Country Report 2023: Insights & Trends

Much can be said about Singapore when it comes to the world stage. Despite being a tiny country surrounded by resource-rich countries, the little red dot remains at the forefront in almost every aspect of business and finance. With rising uncertainty over the global economy as well as tensions in the geopolitical arena, it is no surprise that affluent families and wealth managers are looking at Singapore as a haven. In March 2023, Farro Capital amassed SG$1.35 billion in assets under management (AUM) despite only being launched for four months.

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Personal Finance

Evaluating Maybank’s Asian Growth & Income Islamic Fund

A mutual fund is a type of investment asset consisting of a portfolio of stocks, bonds, or other securities, which is overseen by a professional money manager. In this article, we analyse the new Maybank Asian growth & Income Islamic fund which combines: Shariah compliance, ESG and is powered by artificial intelligence. Will this fund help you grow your wealth? We also look at mutual fund fees, and other myths you might have heard about.

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Learn Islamic Banking and finance
Personal Finance

Complete Guide to Islamic Finance Education in Singapore

Islamic banking and finance is a branch of Islamic economics.
Islamic banking is the practice of making profit from non-interest-bearing assets, such as through leasing, profit sharing and selling as asset. It has its roots in the Quran and hadith, thus forms an alternative economic model that is just and socially equitable. This category is an attempt to provide a comprehensive list of Islamic related education and courses in Singapore.

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Personal Finance

Complete Guide to 12 Halal Investment Options in Singapore

Halal investing is a unique form of socially responsible investments because Islam makes no division between the spiritual and the secular. It satisfies Islamic principles and can be just as profitable as conventional investing. In this article we share 12 investments for Muslims including stocks, bonds, mutual funds and other assets you might want to consider to increase or manage your wealth.

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