From the navy to bullion trading: Start-up founder builds wealth through precious metals, discipline

Former naval officer Ian Chan found his calling in precious metals trading, after a difficult decision to leave the navy. Starting Big Bullion in December 2025, Chan invested his savings and family support to begin the business. The company has generated $1.5 million in revenue, primarily from gold and silver bullion. Chan faced challenges in establishing suppliers, sourcing inventory, and managing bullion price fluctuations.

With a goal to make investing in precious metals more accessible to younger Singaporeans, Chan aims to educate customers about gold and silver pricing, premiums, and buyback values. While Chan invests in various stocks, including US indexes like the S&P 500, he emphasizes the importance of diversification and consistently investing below his means. At 25, Chan is engaged to his 25-year-old fiancée, who assists him in his business.