Welcome to the Money Monkey – a web blog devoted to all the bananas of personal finance! I am the main author — a young, new graduate from the University of Waterloo in Canada. My educational background is not rooted in finance but I have high interest and passion for learning and discussing everything related to personal finance and investing. As of this writing, I am a Level 1 candidate for the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation, and I’m in high hopes to someday make the jump to the investments industry, albeit the current market turmoil of 2008.

What do you do?

My educational background is in engineering and I work as an IT professional for one of the most influential investment powerhouses in Canada. My previous work experiences were also mainly from the financial industry, but always from an IT perspective.

Why did you start The Money Monkey?

I recently graduated in early 2008 deep in debt and I am currently trying to get a head start in micro-managing my personal finances. Starting young and being sensible about this aspect of my life will surely help me reach the financial independence that I dream of, and in time, build wealth through diligent saving and investing.

Is this site about frugality and penny pinching?

This site is not about penny pinching, clipping coupons, or contain any teachings about the life of frugality. I personally do not think excessive frugality is necessary and I put emphasis on living a balanced financial life – one of happiness and financial freedom. I do not believe in making your life miserable just to save an extra few bucks here and there.

What are your financial goals?

I am currently approaching my mid-twenties as of this writing. The Money Monkey will serve as my performance log and personal journal to have a net worth of a million dollars by the time I’m in my  mid-thirties. That gives me more than ten whole years to achieve that goal and I am optimistic. How do I get there? Simple. Save money and make more money.

This blog will outline that journey.