Compare the Best Investment, Trading Platforms & Online Brokerages in Singapore
Choose from MoneySmart's curated list of best brokerage accounts in Singapore and learn how to maximise returns by investing. With rising inflation, protect your wealth by investing in assets that outpace the rate of inflation.
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We found 30 Investments for you!
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Unlimited free trading for US Stocks & ETFs
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APPLY NOW for Webull Singapore
on Webull's secure site
APPLY NOW for Plus500
on Plus500's secure site
APPLY NOW for FOREX.com
on FOREX.com's secure site
APPLY NOW for IG
on IG's secure site
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APPLY NOW for OANDA
on OANDA's secure site
APPLY NOW for eToro
on eToro's secure site
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First app to pay 3% interest on shares
All promotions are for share trading accounts only
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APPLY NOW for IG Markets (Share Trading)
on IG's secure site
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Low Commission Fees
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APPLY NOW for Tiger Brokers
on Tiger Brokers's secure site
0 Commission Fees
APPLY NOW for moomoo Singapore
on moomoo's secure site
Newest desktop trading platform on IBKR Desktop
APPLY NOW for Interactive Brokers
on Interactive Brokers's secure site
Lifetime 0 Commission Fee
First Brokerage with US Pre-Market Options
Powered by Longbridge AI
APPLY NOW for Longbridge Securities
on Longbridge's secure site
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APPLY NOW for CMC Markets
on CMC Markets's secure site
APPLY NOW for Saxo
on Saxo's secure site
APPLY NOW for CMC Invest
on CMC Markets's secure site
No hidden fees
APPLY NOW for Syfe Brokerage
on Syfe's secure site
Invest with CPF & SRS Funds
APPLY NOW for Endowus
on Endowus's secure site
Same day withdrawals
APPLY NOW for Syfe Managed Portfolios
on Syfe's secure site
No minimum commission | Lowest Trading Fees
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Disclaimer: At MoneySmart.sg, we strive to keep our information accurate and up to date. This information may be different than what you see when you visit a financial institution, service provider or specific product’s site. All financial products and services are presented without warranty. Additionally, this site may be compensated through third party advertisers. However, the results of our comparison tools which are not marked as sponsored are always based on objective analysis first.
How We Choose the Best Trading Platforms in Singapore at MoneySmart
At MoneySmart, our rankings and recommendations for the best trading platforms in Singapore follow a rigorous, transparent methodology to ensure fairness, fact-based, and relevancy to 2026’s evolving investor needs. Our editorial team analyses each platform using a verified database from MoneySmart’s internal product database, which draws directly from MAS-regulated providers, with corroboration assisted from external, credible issuer sources.
We assess all platforms using five weighted factors:
Our evaluation framework
We assess all platforms using five weighted factors:
- Trading fees: Includes commission rates, platform fees, and minimum funding requirements. We prioritise transparent, low-cost structures with no hidden charges.
- Platform experience: Evaluates usability across desktop and mobile platforms, app reliability, and customer support responsiveness.
- Product range: Considers access to global markets (e.g., US, SGX, HK) and availability of additional products such as ETFs, REITs, options, and funds.
- Promotions and value: Covers verified MoneySmart-exclusive offers, welcome rewards, or commission-free trading periods that provide tangible user benefits.
- Regulation and safety: Ensures the platform holds a valid Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) Capital Markets Services Licence and adheres to investor protection standards.
Understanding Trading Platforms, Brokerages, and Account Structures in Singapore
An online trading platform in Singapore is a digital gateway that lets investors buy and sell assets—such as stocks, ETFs, REITs, and currencies—directly from your computer or mobile device. Unlike traditional brokers, these self-directed online platforms don’t require a trip to an office or manual phone orders; instead, they enable investors to manage their portfolios, access trading tools, and monitor market updates anytime, anywhere.
Meanwhile, a brokerage account is the account you open with an investment firm or online broker. It holds your cash and securities, enabling transactions across various markets. While the trading platform is the front-end tool you interact with, the brokerage account is the financial framework behind it.
Meanwhile, a brokerage account is the account you open with an investment firm or online broker. It holds your cash and securities, enabling transactions across various markets. While the trading platform is the front-end tool you interact with, the brokerage account is the financial framework behind it.
How online trading platforms work
When you open a brokerage account with a regulated trading provider, you gain access to live market data, execution tools, and portfolio management dashboards. Most platforms integrate funding options like PayNow or FAST, along with secure data encryption to protect your assets and personal information. This setup lets you trade globally, monitor performance, and manage funds anytime from your desktop or mobile device.
Once your account is set up and funded, you can log in securely to browse available securities, track live price movements, and place trades using common order types like market or limit orders. Plus, with lower fees and commissions, these platforms automatically route trades to the relevant exchange and update your portfolio in real time while handling the technical backend for you.
For example, Interactive Brokers provides access to over 160 markets worldwide. It offers $0 minimum funding, US stocks from US$1 minimum commission per order, and Singapore stocks from S$2.50 minimum commission per order (0.08%) under its GlobalTrader pricing plan via platforms such as Trader Workstation, IBKR Desktop, and IBKR Mobile. With robust tools, low fees, and strong regulatory oversight, it remains one of Singapore’s most comprehensive trading options.
Once your account is set up and funded, you can log in securely to browse available securities, track live price movements, and place trades using common order types like market or limit orders. Plus, with lower fees and commissions, these platforms automatically route trades to the relevant exchange and update your portfolio in real time while handling the technical backend for you.
For example, Interactive Brokers provides access to over 160 markets worldwide. It offers $0 minimum funding, US stocks from US$1 minimum commission per order, and Singapore stocks from S$2.50 minimum commission per order (0.08%) under its GlobalTrader pricing plan via platforms such as Trader Workstation, IBKR Desktop, and IBKR Mobile. With robust tools, low fees, and strong regulatory oversight, it remains one of Singapore’s most comprehensive trading options.
Core features of online trading platforms
In general, online brokers combine accessibility, ease of use, and affordability. Most offer mobile and web access, intuitive dashboards, and low or zero commissions that make trading simple for both beginners and experienced investors. MAS-regulated platforms like Moomoo, Tiger Brokers, Saxo Markets, and Interactive Brokers also extend access beyond the Singapore Exchange (SGX), like to global markets such as the US and Hong Kong.
Comparison Table: Key Online Trading Platforms
| Platform | Account type | Minimum funding | Commission fees (SG/US) | Platform fees | MoneySmart exclusive promo | Global market access |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moomoo | Custodian/Broker | None | SG: S$0 (1 year) US: S$0 (lifetime) |
US$1 per order |
Get S$100 Cash via PayNow OR Sennheiser Accentum Wireless Headphones (worth S$269) OR S$130 GrabGift Vouchers. Valid till 31 Jan 2026. |
SG, US, HK, JP, China A, global |
| Tiger Brokers | Custodian | US$1 |
SG: min. S$1.99/order (0.06%) US: min. US$1.99/order |
None |
Get S$120 UPSIZED Cash via PayNow OR Apple AirPods 4 (worth S$199) when you fund min. US$1,000 and complete 1 BUY trade. Valid till 8 Jan 2026. |
SG, US, HK |
| Interactive Brokers | Custodian | None |
SG: min. S$2.50/order (0.08%) US: min. US$1/order |
None | — | 150+ global markets |
| Syfe Brokerage | Custodian | None | From US$0.99/order | None | — | SG, US |
| Endowus | Custodian |
S$1,000 (cash/CPF/SRS combined) Subsequent top-ups from S$100 |
0.25%–0.60% p.a. (depending on AUA) + fund-level fees (0.4%–0.5% p.a.) | 0.05%–0.60% annual management fee | — | — |
| Saxo Markets | Custodian | None |
SG: min. 0.08% US: from US$3/order |
N/A | — | SG, US, HK, global; Multi-asset (FX, ETFs, Bonds) |
| Webull | Custodian | None |
SG: min. S$0.80/order (0.025%) US: US$0.90/order |
None |
Get up to S$260 Cash OR Apple AirPods Pro 3 / LOJEL luggage / Apple Watch SE. Valid till 31 Jan 2026. |
SG, US, HK, China A, ETFs, REITs |
| Longbridge Securities | Custodian | None |
SG: min. S$0.99/order (0.03%) HK: 0.02% |
None |
Rewards up to 10% of deposit incl. up to S$380 Cash OR iPad / Sony WH-1000XM5. Valid till 31 Jan 2026. |
SG, US, HK |
| uSMART SG | Custodian | None | SG: min. S$1/order (0.03%) | None | — | SG, US, HK |
| FOREX.com | Custodian | US$100 | FX spreads from 0.0 pips + commission | N/A | S$220 cash or 4,200 SmartPoints when you deposit ≥S$1,000 and execute 3 qualifying trades. Valid till 31 Jan 2026. | Global FX & CFDs |
| IG Markets | Custodian | None |
SG: min. S$10/order (0.06%) US: min. US$10/order |
N/A | Up to S$250 cash or 4,200 SmartPoints when you deposit ≥S$1,000 and execute 1 CFD trade. Valid till 31 Jan 2026. | 17,000+ global markets |
| OANDA | Custodian | None | Variable FX spreads from 0.0 pips | N/A | Welcome bonus up to S$18,888 when you meet the minimum deposit and trading requirements. Valid till 1 Feb 2026. | Global FX |
| Plus500 | Custodian | None | Commission-free CFDs (spread-based) | None | Enjoy S$250 Cash via PayNow when you open a NEW Plus500 account, deposit S$1,000 and make 3 trades and unlock up to S$828 when you meet the minimum deposit and trading requirements. | Global CFDs |
| Phillip Nova / MetaTrader 5 | Custodian | None | Spread + commission model | N/A | — | FX, commodities, indices |
| eToro | Custodian | US$50 |
SG: None US: min. US$1/order |
US$10 inactivity fee |
Get up to S$350 Cash OR iPad / AirPods / GrabGift vouchers. Valid till 31 Jan 2026. |
20+ global exchanges, ETFs, and derivatives |
Disclaimer: Information presented in this table is verified as of January 2026 and provided for general reference only. It is not intended as professional financial advice. Fees, promotions, eligibility criteria, and platform features are subject to change at the discretion of each brokerage (and MoneySmart) without prior notice. Please verify the latest terms and conditions directly with the provider before applying or making any investment decision.
The Smart Investor’s Shortcut
Skip the guesswork. Learn how brokerage accounts in Singapore work and compare them side by side with MoneySmart’s complete guide—from fees and features to platforms and perks, we break it all down for you.
Types of Products Offered by Investments
Login to any Investments website and you will find a list of trading products: stocks, ETFs, bonds, commodities, options, futures, funds, forex, and CFDs. These products can be further differentiated into two categories: asset classes and financial instruments. What's the difference?
Asset classes are the products that you can trade or invest in, while financial instruments are the different ways or methods to trade securities across asset classes.
Asset classes are the products that you can trade or invest in, while financial instruments are the different ways or methods to trade securities across asset classes.
Forex (FX)
Asset class
Forex trading involves the price movements of currency pairs– such as the EUR/ USD, and USD/ SGD. While it may feel conceptually similar to exchanging currency at a money changer, FX trading is speculative, involves leverage, and is conducted on the global interbank market. Know that FX trading inherently always carries high risk due to volatility and leverage.
Simply put, when you buy USD/SGD, you’ll receive (your buy) USD in exchange (your sell) for your SGD. In Singapore, retail FX trading is regulated by MAS on licensed brokerage platforms.
Commodities
Asset class
Commodity trading grants exposure to raw materials and commodities such as precious metals (gold, silver), energy (crude oil, natural gas) and agriculture (corn, soybeans). These are usually traded via futures contracts, CFDs (contract for differences), or ETFs.
Notably, commodity prices are influenced by global economic trends, geopolitical tensions, weather conditions, and supply and demand dynamics.
Equities (Stocks)
Asset class
Stocks, otherwise known as shares, are popular long-term securities traded actively via brokers or CFDs. They signify part-ownership in a company. Holding shares of firms like Singtel or CapitaLand means you’re a part-owner entitled to potential capital gains and dividends. A good investor will carefully evaluate a company’s financials and business prospects before purchasing its shares.
Bonds
Asset class
Bonds are fixed income instruments. Purchasing a bond essentially means lending money to a government or company in exchange for fixed and periodic payments. In Singapore, any retail investor can access bonds via Singapore Savings Bonds (SSBs), corporate bonds, or bond ETFs. While money is returned at maturity and considerably lower risk, returns can still fluctuate based on interest rate movements and issuer creditworthiness.
Index
Asset class
An index tracks the performance of a specific basket of securities (e.g. stocks, bonds, ETFs, REITs, etc.). In Singapore, the Straits Times Index (STI) tracks the performance of the top 30 companies listed on the SGX, and serves as an indicator of Singapore’s economic health. You gain exposure to indices via ETFs or CFDs.
ETFs
Asset class
An ETF (Exchange-Traded Fund) is a basket of assets like stocks, bonds, or commodities. They are traded like individual stocks on an exchange. Many ETFs are designed to replicate or track the performance of an underlying index. For example, the STI ETF tracks the Straits Times Index.
ETFs offer diversification, lower fees, and transparency, making them popular among both beginner and experienced investors. Since an ETF is marketed as a security, it has a buy and sell price and can be traded on an exchange.
CFDs
Financial instrument
A CFD (Contract For Difference) is a derivative product from entering a contract between you and the brokerage firm to exchange the price difference of an asset between the time you first open and close a position. There is no actual ownership of the underlying asset (e.g. stock, commodity) and leverages are often involved.
Futures
Financial instrument
Futures are standardised financial contracts that obligate traders to transact an asset at a set price on a predetermined future date. You can buy futures on a variety of asset classes such as forex, commodities, equities, and indices.
Mutual funds / Unit trusts
Financial instrument
Mutual funds or unit trusts are pools of money collected from investors and subsequently professionally managed and diversified across asset classes such as stocks, and commodities. Since these funds will be used to buy a variety of securities, it is generally considered a safer investment instrument, but they still carry risk.
How to Choose the Best Brokerage?
Finding the right brokerage that is aligned with your investment goals, educational needs, and learning style is fundamental to your success as an online investor. While all Investments firms may provide you with the convenience of investing online, the fees structure, platform features, and customer support accessibility may vary.
When choosing your brokerage, strike the right balance by considering these criteria:
When choosing your brokerage, strike the right balance by considering these criteria:
#1
Brokerage fees
Brokerage fees include more than just commissions. Look out for extra charges like deposit, withdrawal, account maintenance fees, and others. Active traders will benefit from low per-trade costs, while casual investors should still beware of minimum chargers that affect smaller trades.
#2
Platform usability & features
An user-friendly interface can greatly enhance your trading experience. Look out for intuitive navigation, clear layouts, and responsive features on both desktop and mobile.
#3
Ease of opening & managing account
While the ease of account opening and maintenance vary, most Investmentss in Singapore generally support SingPass MyInfo, allowing Singaporeans and PRs to open accounts instantly without tedious paperwork.
#4
Market access and tradeable product range
When choosing a brokerage, start by identifying trading products you plan to invest in. Not all brokerage platforms offer the same range of instruments, so limited product access can be a constraint.
For instance, if you wish to trade both Singapore-listed stocks (SGX) and US equities, choose a broker with access to both markets.
Similarly, if investing in other asset classes such as contracts for difference (CFDs), precious metals like gold, or real estate investment trusts (REITs), your broker should support these products too.
#5
Try out demos first
Before committing to an Investments, testing out different platforms with a demo account is useful. Trying out different brokerage interfaces in trial versions allow you to decide on a platform best aligned to your trading style and preferences.
#6
Research material and insights
Many brokers hire in-house professional analysts and experts to help investors interpret market behaviour and understand stock performance.
Some brokers also host webinars and networking events for professional investors and traders to mingle and share market outlooks and respond to live questions from participants.
CDP vs Custodian Accounts in Singapore: Which Trading Account Suits You?
Your trading account structure defines how your investments are held and the rights you retain as a shareholder. In Singapore, investors typically choose between CDP-linked accounts and custodian accounts. Understanding these options helps you align your investing style with the right platform.
To reiterate, a CDP-linked account connects directly to the Central Depository (CDP), meaning your Singapore-listed shares are stored under your name with full shareholder rights granted to you (e.g. receiving dividends directly).
Who it’s for:Long-term investors focused on Singapore-listed stocks, blue chips, and REITs
Those valuing transparency, direct ownership, and stable returns
In contrast, custodian accounts hold your investments under the brokerage’s name “in trust” for you as the beneficial owner, while they handle all the corporate actions on your behalf. This model facilitates lower fees, faster execution, and access to global markets beyond SGX.
Who it’s for:Beginners or cost-sensitive investors starting with smaller trade sizes
Frequent traders seeking low commissions and global diversification
Knowing the distinction between having shares held through a CDP or custodian accounts affects how you manage dividends, your ownership rights, and handle corporate events. In general, custodian models are typically preferred by investors seeking cost efficiency and global reach, while CDP-linked accounts suit those prioritising transparency and direct ownership.
💡 For custodian account examples, refer to our comprehensive online brokerage comparison table above.
Below are typical Singapore investor profiles mapped to the platforms and account types best aligned to their objectives:
CDP-linked accounts
To reiterate, a CDP-linked account connects directly to the Central Depository (CDP), meaning your Singapore-listed shares are stored under your name with full shareholder rights granted to you (e.g. receiving dividends directly).
Who it’s for:
| Platform | Account type | Minimum funding | Trading fees (SG) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DBS Vickers | CDP-linked | S$0 | 0.12% (min. S$25/order) | Direct CDP linkage; dividends credited automatically. |
| OCBC Securities | CDP-linked / Custodian | S$0 | 0.275% (min. S$25/order) | Choice of CDP or global access; supports MyInfo onboarding. |
Custodian accounts
In contrast, custodian accounts hold your investments under the brokerage’s name “in trust” for you as the beneficial owner, while they handle all the corporate actions on your behalf. This model facilitates lower fees, faster execution, and access to global markets beyond SGX.
Who it’s for:
Knowing the distinction between having shares held through a CDP or custodian accounts affects how you manage dividends, your ownership rights, and handle corporate events. In general, custodian models are typically preferred by investors seeking cost efficiency and global reach, while CDP-linked accounts suit those prioritising transparency and direct ownership.
💡 For custodian account examples, refer to our comprehensive online brokerage comparison table above.
Platform fit by investor persona
Below are typical Singapore investor profiles mapped to the platforms and account types best aligned to their objectives:
| Persona | Trading Objective | Account Type | Platform Examples | “Best For” Badge | Why? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Long-term SGX shareholder | Buy-and-hold SGX shares | CDP | Local brokers | Direct SGX shareholding | Enjoy direct ownership, robust record-keeping, and eligibility for shareholder perks. |
| Seasoned and Ambitious Investors | Frequent US/global market trading | Custodian | Tiger, Moomoo, Webull | Low fees, broad market access | Lower minimum commissions, access to US, HK, and other markets, with streamlined mobile or web trading. |
| Beginner to Risk-Averse Investors | ETF / Unit Trust / Fund Buyer | Custodian | FSMOne, Saxo, Longbridge | Diverse funds, recurring investing | Broader global ETF access, competitive fees for regular purchases, and strong tools for tracking non-SGX funds. |
| Long-term investors | CPF / SRS investment | CPF-IS / SRS | Local brokers | CPF/SRS eligibility (see guide) | Ideal for long-term wealth building through government-linked investment schemes. |
| Mobile-first Investors | Easy mobile onboarding | Custodian | Moomoo, Webull, Tiger | Beginner-friendly, mobile-first | Intuitive app experience, fast onboarding, educational tools, and low or zero minimum balance. |
| Foreigner / PR flexibility | Greater eligibility and accessibility for non-Singaporeans | Custodian | Moomoo, Tiger, Longbridge | Non-citizen onboarding | Simpler international signup, broader global remit, and flexible asset options for non-residents. |
Beginners
Those new to trading or investing small amounts would prefer custodian accounts for their simplicity and affordability.
Through the brokers, you can access multiple markets, track real-time data, and start trading immediately without worrying about high-entry fees or paperwork.
✅ Recommended platforms: Moomoo, Tiger Brokers, Syfe Trade
🔑 Key advantages: Low fees, easy app usage, educational resources
Through the brokers, you can access multiple markets, track real-time data, and start trading immediately without worrying about high-entry fees or paperwork.
✅ Recommended platforms: Moomoo, Tiger Brokers, Syfe Trade
🔑 Key advantages: Low fees, easy app usage, educational resources
Active or global traders
For investors frequently trading across global markets, custodian accounts are a no-brainer choice. They provide faster execution, lower commissions, and any trade-offs in shareholder rights are outweighed by the access to diversified markets and trading tools anyway.
✅ Recommended platforms: Interactive Brokers, Saxo Markets, Tiger Brokers
🔑 Key advantages: Advanced tools, global access, low commissions
✅ Recommended platforms: Interactive Brokers, Saxo Markets, Tiger Brokers
🔑 Key advantages: Advanced tools, global access, low commissions
Long-term investors
Those preferring to hold Singapore stocks long-term like blue chips and REITs would appreciate the transparency of CDP-linked accounts.
✅ Recommended platforms: Endowus, POEMS, Maybank Securities, DBS Vickers
🔑 Key advantages: CPF/SRS compatibility, CDP ownership
✅ Recommended platforms: Endowus, POEMS, Maybank Securities, DBS Vickers
🔑 Key advantages: CPF/SRS compatibility, CDP ownership
You Don't Need Thousands to Start Investing
You don’t need a big bank account to start investing. Regardless of the savings you’ve amassed, it’s possible to invest smartly and confidently—even with as little as $1,000.
Integrated Investment Platforms in Singapore: Syfe, Endowus, & Saxo Explained
Today’s leading trading platforms in Singapore go far beyond the basic trade executions to offer integrated wealth ecosystems that combine investing, portfolio management, and financial planning. Platforms such as Syfe, Endowus, and Saxo Markets are leading this transformation by merging brokerage, robo-advisory, and goal-based investing into unified, MAS-regulated solutions.
| Platform | Ideal For | Product Range | Fee Structure | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Syfe | New investors seeking hybrid robo-advisory + direct investing | SG & US stocks, ETFs, CPF, SRS | 0.04%–0.06% trading fees 0.35%–0.65% management fees |
Seamless CPF/SRS integration |
| Endowus | Long-term investors managing CPF/SRS/cash together | Unit trusts, curated portfolios | 0.25%–0.60% management fees | Institutional fund access, no sales charges |
| Saxo Markets | Active traders and professionals | Multi-asset (FX, ETFs, Bonds, Options) | From 0.08%/order commission fee for SG stocks From US$1/order commission fee for US stocks |
Institutional-grade tools, global coverage |
Fees & Hidden Costs: What to Watch For
Singapore trading platforms offer plenty of bells and whistles, with low trading fees being one of their biggest attractions. However, not all “zero commission” claims mean the same thing. Every platform structures its costs differently, and their true costs can trip up both savvy and new investors.
Commission & platform fees
All brokers charge transaction-based fees, usually split between commission fees and platform or handling fees. Just take these 3 brokerage platforms as an example:
At first glance, these differences may seem small, but they can affect net returns for frequent and high-volume SG and US traders. Plus, occasional or more cautious traders investing smaller sums will benefit from the ultra-low minimums.
| Online Brokerage | US Stocks | SG Stocks | Platform Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moomoo | S$0 lifetime commissions | S$0 commissions (for 1 year) | US$1 per order |
| Tiger Brokers | US$0.99 per trade | 0.06% of trade value (min. S$1.99) per trade | None |
| Interactive Brokers | Min. US$1 per trade | 0.08% of trade value (min. S$2.50) per trade | None |
At first glance, these differences may seem small, but they can affect net returns for frequent and high-volume SG and US traders. Plus, occasional or more cautious traders investing smaller sums will benefit from the ultra-low minimums.
Other hidden costs
While base commissions are transparent, traders often overlook secondary fees. Here’s what to watch for:
FX conversion fees: If you trade across currencies (e.g. SG → US markets), brokers apply small spreads or fixed conversion charges when converting currencies. Some brokers charge spreads as low as 0.7 pips (e.g. Saxo Market) but details can change per currency and platform.
Withdrawal fees: Custodian platforms may charge nominal amounts for international fund transfers, though common methods like FAST/PayNow are typically free.
Custody fees: Most digital brokerages featured here now waive this, except select cases (Saxo: possible 0.12% p.a. if not in securities lending).
Inactivity fees: Some international brokers impose charges if your account remains unused for long periods.
Data fees: Real-time data access is often subscription-based, but some brokers like Moomoo and Tiger Brokers offer complimentary Level 2 US data for new users.
Always check a platform’s fee schedule before funding your account, especially if planning to diversify across markets.
Always check a platform’s fee schedule before funding your account, especially if planning to diversify across markets.
“Costly” red flags
Step-By-Step Guide: How to Start Investing and Trading For Beginners
Investing isn’t just for the wealthy or the financially savvy—it’s one of the best ways to grow your money, beat inflation, and achieve long-term financial goals. By leveraging MAS-regulated platforms and tools like robo-advisors and Investmentss, your investing journey can be simplified and streamlined—even with as little funds as $1,000.
💡MoneySmart Tip: While savings is important, relying on it alone isn’t enough to keep pace with inflation. In recent years, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in Singapore has averaged around 4%, while most savings accounts offer less than 1% base interest unless you meet multiple bonus conditions. Left untouched, inflation erodes the purchasing power of your inflation by over 30% in 10 years.
💡MoneySmart Tip: While savings is important, relying on it alone isn’t enough to keep pace with inflation. In recent years, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in Singapore has averaged around 4%, while most savings accounts offer less than 1% base interest unless you meet multiple bonus conditions. Left untouched, inflation erodes the purchasing power of your inflation by over 30% in 10 years.
Step 1
Define your investment goals
Before opening any account, ask yourself:
With clear goals, choosing the right platform and account type gets much easier.
Step 2
Check eligibility
In Singapore, you must be at least 18 years old and not an undischarged bankrupt to open a trading or investment account. Also, decide on how much starting capital you’re comfortable with—$1,000 is a good benchmark for many.
Step 3
Choose and open an Investments account
To find the right trading platform for your needs, use our MoneySmart investments comparison tool to compare brokers side by side. Quickly assess fees, trading features, market access, and exclusive MoneySmart promotions all at a glance.
Once decided, click on the “Apply Now” button of your preferred online broker to kickstart the application process.
Step 4
Prepare necessary documents
While most brokers now support MyInfo/Singpass integration for near-instant data syncing and minimising manual upload errors, some platforms might still require extra documents if needed:
Step 5
Open your trading account: CDP-linked or custodian account
A Central Depository (CDP) account, managed by the SGX, allows you to securely hold and own purchased SGX-listed stocks. You can create your CDP account online.
Meanwhile, opening a custodian account through an online brokerage means your shares are held under the broker’s name on your behalf, and you won’t have direct ownership of the securities. Nevertheless, these accounts offer lower fees, faster trade executions, and access to global markets
Step 6
Fund your account
Step 7
Place your first trade
Place an order with your broker to buy or sell your shares. Decide between
Step 8
Regularly monitor and review your portfolio
Are you a short-term trader or long-term investor? Reflect, review, and rebalance your portfolio periodically to assess its performance, adjust your goals, and adapt to changing market conditions.
FAQs About Investments and Online Brokerages
Can foreigners invest in the Singapore stock market?
- Yes, foreigners can invest in the Singapore stock market. They can either trade directly by opening a local brokerage account or a brokerage in their home countries offering access to the Singapore Exchange (SGX).
Are Singapore REITs a good investment?
- While we can’t recommend a “good” or “bad” investment, Singapore Real Estate Investment Trust (REITs) are tax-efficient. You neither pay income tax on dividends received nor corporate tax, making them a highly popular investment type.
What is an investment brokerage firm?
- An investment brokerage firm gives you access to the stock market, allowing you to buy and sell shares on the stock market. To start trading, you’ll need to open a brokerage account first. Most platforms charge a commission fee per trade, which is why frequent traders often opt for brokers with lower trading fees to keep costs down.
Who can open an online trading account?
- If you’re above 18 years old and not an undischarged bankrupt, you can open an online trading account in Singapore. Even if you’re a foreigner working outside of Singapore, you can open a trading account any time you want as long as you meet the above requirements.
What is margin trading?
- Margin trading is when investors borrow funds (the margin) from a broker or bank to trade securities. The main objective is to leverage the capital and increase its prospective returns. An example of margin trading is share financing.
How much do I need to pay to open a trading account?
- The initial deposit required by brokerage firms in Singapore varies. To accommodate the different risk appetites and budget of individuals, brokerage firms offer different funding tiers. For example, Saxo Markets (Classic Account) and IG do not have any minimum funding requirements.
Are there any brokerages with zero-commission trading?
- Yes, there are zero-commission trading platforms available in Singapore. Investments platforms like Moomoo and WeBull allow users to trade in stocks and ETFs without charging a per-trade commission fee.
Where to open a brokerage account?
- Active investing: You can open a brokerage account at an online broker if you want to pick and choose your own investments. Passive investing: If you'd rather pay a small fee to have a service manage your investments, you might opt for a robo-advisor. These companies typically charge around 0.25% of your account balance.
Why is my “zero commission” trade still incurring charges?
- Most Singapore trading platforms now advertise $0 commission, especially for US and SG equities but this rarely means a completely free trade. Most platforms still impose platform, handling, or clearing fees per transaction, and some apply FX conversion spreads when trading foreign stocks. For active traders, these micro-fees can add up for frequent trades. Always consider your broker’s “all-in” cost structure, not just headline commission rates.
What should I do if I don’t receive my sign-up promo reward?
- MoneySmart-exclusive promotions are typically available to new Singapore-based users who apply through our official MoneySmart “Apply Now” links, fund their accounts (e.g. S$1,000—S$250,000), complete the required buy trades, and submit any claim forms by deadline.
If rewards remain uncredited, contact your broker’s support team with your account details and transaction IDs. Promo fulfilment delays are common as campaigns grow more complex. How do I verify if a trading platform is MAS-licensed?
- Before funding any account, verify the broker’s Capital Markets Services (CMS) Licence in the MAS Financial Institutions Directory. Licensed platforms include Moomoo, Tiger Brokers, Webull, Saxo Markets, Interactive Brokers, Longbridge, uSMART, and others listed on MoneySmart’s investments channel. For CPF-IS or SRS investing, only selected local bank brokerages (e.g. DBS Vickers, OCBC Securities) and Endowus are approved. Always cross-reference with the official CPFIS and SRS eligibility lists, where possible.
Can I use CPF or SRS funds for stock or ETF trading on app-based platforms?
- As of 2025, no, you cannot. Global or app-based brokers do not support CPFIS (CPF Investment Scheme) or SRS. You’ll need a platform specifically approved for CPF or SRS transactions, typically local banks or select traditional brokers. Always check CPFIS or SRS eligibility before funding.
Why was my trade delayed or rejected during a market surge?
- High trading volumes or sudden price movements can overwhelm even established platforms, leading to order rejections or delays. Most MAS-regulated brokers have system safeguards and prompt user updates, but service bottlenecks do happen during major market swings. If your order fails, review trade status and contact support if funds are debited but no confirmation is shown. This is a rising concern linked to increased retail trading during big global news events.
How can I protect my trading account from scams or frauds?
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA), only use official websites and apps, and avoid third-party links or chat-based investment tips. By end-2025, MAS mandates full 2FA adoption across all licensed trading platforms.
Why are my foreign stock trades settled at a rate different from what I see online?
- Platforms may use built-in FX conversion rates or apply a spread on live interbank rates; these vary day to day and by broker. Even if the commission is $0, FX-related charges can eat into returns. Check platform fine print for details or ask support for the specific FX spread or calculation method.
What happens if my trading platform goes offline or my app won’t load?
- If your broker’s platform suffers an outage, check for official announcements on their website, app, or MAS updates. In urgent cases, try alternative supported platforms (some brokers have both web and mobile), or contact customer support to place manual trades if allowed (note potential extra fees for non-digital order placement). Reliability and downtime queries are now emerging as more users actively participate in high-volume trading events.
How do I submit feedback or report issues with my broker?
- Most brokers have in-app chat, helpdesks, or support emails. If unresolved issues arise, escalate via the MAS Feedback Portal or the Financial Industry Disputes Resolution Centre (FIDReC). Consumer reports support regulatory oversight and promote fair trading practices.
Should I trust investment tips from social media “finfluencers”?
- Be wary of investment tips on social media. Only licensed financial advisers can legally provide investment advice in Singapore. Acting on unverified “finfluencer” content can lead to losses or breaches of MAS regulations.
Should I invest during a recession?
Investing during a recession can be an opportunity to buy low prices and sell stocks at profit in the future.
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