Monetary Authority of Singapore
(MAS)Regulatory Snapshot
The Monetary Authority of Singapore serves as Singapore's central bank and integrated financial regulator. Established in 1971, MAS administers the various statutes pertaining to money, banking, insurance, securities, and the financial sector in general. Its dual role as central bank and financial regulator makes it uniquely positioned to maintain financial stability in one of Asia's leading financial centres.
About MAS
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) is Singapore's central bank and integrated financial regulator, established by an Act of Parliament in 1971. MAS is responsible for overseeing all financial institutions in Singapore, including banks, insurance companies, capital market intermediaries, and financial advisers, while simultaneously managing Singapore's monetary policy and currency stability.
Regulatory Framework
Financial institutions offering forex trading and capital markets services in Singapore must obtain a Capital Markets Services (CMS) licence from MAS. The licensing framework requires a minimum base capital of SGD 1 million, along with ongoing risk-based capital requirements. MAS employs a robust supervisory approach that includes regular inspections, thematic reviews, and enforcement actions against non-compliant firms.
Investor Protection
MAS-regulated brokers must adhere to strict business conduct rules, including client money handling requirements, fair dealing guidelines, and comprehensive disclosure obligations. The Financial Industry Disputes Resolution Centre (FIDReC) provides an accessible avenue for consumers to resolve disputes with financial institutions through mediation and adjudication.
- Capital Markets Services (CMS) licence requirement
- Minimum base capital of SGD 1 million for CMS licence holders
- Risk-based capital framework with ongoing compliance
- Business conduct and client money handling standards
| Instrument | Retail | Professional |
|---|---|---|
| Major Forex | 1:20 | 1:50 |
| Minor Forex | 1:20 | 1:50 |
| Gold | 1:20 | 1:50 |
| Indices | 1:20 | 1:50 |
| Shares CFDs | 1:5 | 1:20 |
| Crypto | 1:2 | 1:5 |
Restricted Countries
MAS is both central bank and integrated financial regulator. Singapore is a major Asian financial hub.
Body: Financial Industry Disputes Resolution Centre (FIDReC)
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