Webull Singapore Review (2023): The investing platform to recharge your wealth journey?

Was “Grow my Wealth” or “Start Investing” on your 2022 list of financial goals? No matter which stage of investing you’re at, Webull Singapore is here to help you get to the next level.

A new online brokerage has come charging onto the investing scene. Webull, a popular online broker in the US that has won several awards, has set its sights on Singapore and the region with its latest foray – Webull Singapore. 

The digital trading platform was registered with the Monetary Authority of Singapore in 2021 and holds a Capital Markets Services (CMS) Licence, which should assuage any concerns around legitimacy that you may have over its status as a new player on the market. 

The platform currently offers access to the US and Hong Kong markets, with more markets expected to be added in time. 

Is Webull the best new platform for your trading and investment needs? Read on to find out. 

• Overview of Webull Singapore
• Pros and cons of Webull Singapore
• Why you should trade with Webull Singapore
• Who should use Webull Singapore
• Fees, charges and promotions
• How to open and fund your Webull Singapore account
• How Webull Singapore compares against other popular online brokers

Overview of Webull Singapore

Product Summary

• What you can invest in: US-listed stocks, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), American Depositary Receipts (ADRs), and options, HK-listed stocks and options
• Minimum balance required: None, but at least S$2,000 needs to be deposited to qualify for welcome rewards*
• Fees: 0.025% of total trade among, min. US$0.50 for US-listed stocks and ETFs (zero commissions* and zero platform fees* for new users (31 days)) 
• Margin financing: 7.53% for USD, 7.98% for HKD, 5.76% for SGD. and 7.10% for CNH
• Withdrawal fees: none (S$20 for USD and HKD withdrawals, charged by the remitting bank)
• Deposit fees: none
• Inactivity fee: none
• Licence: Capital Markets Services (CMS) Licence – Monetary Authority of Singapore

Pros and cons of Webull Singapore

Why trade with Webull Singapore?

#1. Possibly Singapore’s lowest-cost online brokerage

Webull Singapore is determined to carve out a niche for itself in the crowded online brokerage space here.

It charges 0.025% of the total trade amount (min. US$0.50). However, new users can enjoy zero commissions* and zero platform fees* for up to a month (or stipulated limits).  

As long as Webull continues to suppress these fees, they are the lowest-cost brokerage in Singapore – at least at face value. Investors should take note that charges may be adjusted and changed. For details, please check the official website.

To find out if they are absolutely the lowest-cost broker for you, do a test by executing the same trade across this and a few other platforms, and compare the results.

#2. Supports fractional shares trading from US$5*

Webull supports fractional shares trading from as low as US$5* per fractional share. Fractional shares trading is beneficial to traders and investors as it allows you to own high-priced shares even if you do not have a large capital. 

This feature is presently available for US-listed stocks and ETFs on the platform, but we expect this will be extended to other markets in time. 

Note that you can only purchase fractional shares using market orders and spot trades during trading hours. All other types of trades, as well as after-hours trades, are currently not supported for fractional shares trading.

#3. Trade leading stocks and ETFs from around the world

Webull’s selection of products and markets may not be as extensive as some of those of more established brokers, but this isn’t necessarily an issue. The platform allows access to United States and Hong Kong stock markets, which should offer plentiful choices for most regular investors. 

You can access the most popular stocks and funds, including ETFs and REITs in the US and HK stock markets, which should serve you well in constructing a robust investment portfolio. 

Besides conventional buying and selling, Webull also offers options trading for those pursuing more advanced trading strategies. However, this feature is currently limited to selected markets only. 

For whom is Webull Singapore best suited?

Webull’s proposition is a straightforward one. Access one of the lowest-cost online brokers in the market, and trade popular stocks and funds (to be made available soon). If you are looking to trade in the US and HK markets, Webull Singapore might be a good option for those with more basic trading or investing needs. 

Having said that, do be aware that the current zero-fee structure is not set in stone. There is a strong possibility that the platform will start introducing fees sometime down the road; this is to be expected, as every brokerage needs to generate revenue in one way or another, whether this is through trading commissions, high spreads, or other channels. 

What charges or fees should you look out for?

Webull charges a commission fee of 0.025% of the total trade amount (min. US$0.50). 

However, new users won't be charged any fees or commissions for trading on its platform for a stipulated time.

There aren't any fees for deposits or withdrawals. That said, your trades will be subject to prevailing fees levied by various regulatory bodies, including GST in Singapore. There may also be bank handling fees, depending on the method you choose for depositing or withdrawing your funds. There's also a trading fee of US$0.000145 of the total trade volume (min. US$0.01 per trade). 

Of course, savvier traders will know to watch out for high spreads, which is how many zero-commission brokers make their money. However, zero-commission brokers are required to perform the best execution obligations to ensure that the transaction price is the best among multiple order endpoints.

Also read: Brokerage Fees And Other ‘Hidden Fees’ To Know When Investing In Singapore

What promotions are available for Webull Singapore?

Welcome rewards of one fractional share worth up to US$1,000*

• Fund any amount and get one free fractional share with US$20 to US$1,0000. You need to maintain your funds for at least 30 days to get one fractional share worth US$20 to US$1,000
• Offer valid till 31 Oct 2023 15:59 SGT.

Commission-free trading

• Zero-commission* trading on US exchange-listed stocks and ETFs (however, fees by other regulatory agencies apply).

How do you open and fund your Webull Singapore account?

Opening your Webull account

Sign up to access exclusive Webull Singapore member events and promotions!

To open your Webull account, follow these steps:

1. Go to Webull’s website and click “Sign Up” at the bottom of the page.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions to register for a Webull account.
3. If you have a Singpass account, remember to use it to shorten your registration process. 

Funding your Webull account

You may fund your Webull account using any one of the following methods:

In addition, take note of the following when funding your account:

• Deposits must be from your own individual bank account. You may link your bank account using the Webull app.
• Webull does not charge any deposit fees. However, any fees or charges related to your deposit (charged by banks or transfer agents) shall be borne by you. 

Webull Singapore vs other popular trading platforms

Learning how to trade well can change your life. Growing your wealth independently can lead you to financial independence and even early retirement. 

In short, if you are a fan of US stocks, options trading and high-frequency trading, Webull will be a good choice. If you also like a platform with simple operation and clear functions, a user-friendly app like Webull is just right for you.

*Terms and Conditions apply. For detailed terms and conditions and full disclaimer, please refer to Webull’s website at https://www.webull.com.sg/. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.