Beansprout explores why the open architecture advisory model is gaining traction in Singapore, and how greater choice and transparency can lead to better financial outcomes for consumers. This post was created in partnership with Ascend Asia. All views and opinions expressed in this article are Beansprout's objective and professional opinions. What was it like when you made your first insurance purchase? Probably, it was a friend who reached out to you. First came a text message, followed by a coffee chat arranged out of obligation and politeness. You then bought something—maybe you understood it, maybe you didn't. You just knew that insurance was important; it's a narrative many of us grew up with. And then—in many stories that have become all too common—you never see this friend again. Apart from servicing the regular insurance premiums, your insurance plan sits somewhere forgotten. One day, hopefully, it will come in useful....