Updated: 18 Feb 2026
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In providing the above information, SingSaver is carrying out introducing activities on behalf of financial advisers. SingSaver is not to be construed as in any way engaging or being involved in the distribution or sale of any financial product or assuming any risk or undertaking any liability in respect of any financial product. Neither singsaver.com.sg or the content on it is intended as securities brokerage or investment advice, as an offer or solicitation of an offer to sell or buy, or as an endorsement, recommendation or sponsorship of any company, security or fund. The content on singsaver.com.sg is for general information purposes only and does not review or include all available companies, products or offers. SingSaver may receive compensation from the brands providing the offers or services appearing on this website. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
In providing the above information, SingSaver is carrying out introducing activities on behalf of financial advisers. SingSaver is not to be construed as in any way engaging or being involved in the distribution or sale of any financial product or assuming any risk or undertaking any liability in respect of any financial product. Neither singsaver.com.sg or the content on it is intended as securities brokerage or investment advice, as an offer or solicitation of an offer to sell or buy, or as an endorsement, recommendation or sponsorship of any company, security or fund. The content on singsaver.com.sg is for general information purposes only and does not review or include all available companies, products or offers. SingSaver may receive compensation from the brands providing the offers or services appearing on this website. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
In providing the above information, SingSaver is carrying out introducing activities on behalf of financial advisers. SingSaver is not to be construed as in any way engaging or being involved in the distribution or sale of any financial product or assuming any risk or undertaking any liability in respect of any financial product. Neither singsaver.com.sg or the content on it is intended as securities brokerage or investment advice, as an offer or solicitation of an offer to sell or buy, or as an endorsement, recommendation or sponsorship of any company, security or fund. The content on singsaver.com.sg is for general information purposes only and does not review or include all available companies, products or offers. SingSaver may receive compensation from the brands providing the offers or services appearing on this website. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
In providing the above information, SingSaver is carrying out introducing activities on behalf of financial advisers. SingSaver is not to be construed as in any way engaging or being involved in the distribution or sale of any financial product or assuming any risk or undertaking any liability in respect of any financial product. Neither singsaver.com.sg or the content on it is intended as securities brokerage or investment advice, as an offer or solicitation of an offer to sell or buy, or as an endorsement, recommendation or sponsorship of any company, security or fund. The content on singsaver.com.sg is for general information purposes only and does not review or include all available companies, products or offers. SingSaver may receive compensation from the brands providing the offers or services appearing on this website. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
In providing the above information, SingSaver is carrying out introducing activities on behalf of financial advisers. SingSaver is not to be construed as in any way engaging or being involved in the distribution or sale of any financial product or assuming any risk or undertaking any liability in respect of any financial product. Neither singsaver.com.sg or the content on it is intended as securities brokerage or investment advice, as an offer or solicitation of an offer to sell or buy, or as an endorsement, recommendation or sponsorship of any company, security or fund. The content on singsaver.com.sg is for general information purposes only and does not review or include all available companies, products or offers. SingSaver may receive compensation from the brands providing the offers or services appearing on this website. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
In providing the above information, SingSaver is carrying out introducing activities on behalf of financial advisers. SingSaver is not to be construed as in any way engaging or being involved in the distribution or sale of any financial product or assuming any risk or undertaking any liability in respect of any financial product. Neither singsaver.com.sg or the content on it is intended as securities brokerage or investment advice, as an offer or solicitation of an offer to sell or buy, or as an endorsement, recommendation or sponsorship of any company, security or fund. The content on singsaver.com.sg is for general information purposes only and does not review or include all available companies, products or offers. SingSaver may receive compensation from the brands providing the offers or services appearing on this website. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
IG Markets is the first app in Singapore to pay 3% annual interest* on your shares and ETFs – on top of potential capital gains and dividends. Get guaranteed monthly interest payouts with just one trade a month, no lock-ins.
On your first S$50,000 in shareholdings
Guaranteed monthly payouts up to S$125, with one trade a month
No lock-in period, no minimum sum
For more information, refer to IG.com/sg/igmarkets
Terms and conditions apply.
Disclaimer: The information in this page is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute (and should not be construed as containing) any form of financial or investment advice or an investment recommendation or an offer of or solicitation to invest or transact in any financial instrument. Nor does the information take into account the investment objective, financial situation, or particular need of any person. Where in doubt, you should seek advice from an independent financial adviser regarding the suitability of your investment, under a separate arrangement, as you deem fit. No responsibility is accepted by IG for any loss or damage arising in any way (including due to negligence) from anyone acting or refraining from acting as a result of the information. All forms of investment carry risks. Refer to full disclaimers and disclosures at IG.com/sg This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
In providing the above information, SingSaver is carrying out introducing activities on behalf of financial advisers. SingSaver is not to be construed as in any way engaging or being involved in the distribution or sale of any financial product or assuming any risk or undertaking any liability in respect of any financial product. Neither singsaver.com.sg or the content on it is intended as securities brokerage or investment advice, as an offer or solicitation of an offer to sell or buy, or as an endorsement, recommendation or sponsorship of any company, security or fund. The content on singsaver.com.sg is for general information purposes only and does not review or include all available companies, products or offers. SingSaver may receive compensation from the brands providing the offers or services appearing on this website. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
In providing the above information, SingSaver is carrying out introducing activities on behalf of financial advisers. SingSaver is not to be construed as in any way engaging or being involved in the distribution or sale of any financial product or assuming any risk or undertaking any liability in respect of any financial product. Neither singsaver.com.sg or the content on it is intended as securities brokerage or investment advice, as an offer or solicitation of an offer to sell or buy, or as an endorsement, recommendation or sponsorship of any company, security or fund. The content on singsaver.com.sg is for general information purposes only and does not review or include all available companies, products or offers. SingSaver may receive compensation from the brands providing the offers or services appearing on this website. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
CMC Markets Singapore Pte. Ltd. Co. Reg. No./UEN 200605050E ("CMC Markets"). Regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (CMSL No: 100063). See risk warning/disclosures and other important information (including the applicable terms of business) at our website: Home. Singsaver is our paid affiliate marketing partner.
The Information provided is not to be regarded as an offer, a solicitation or an invitation to deal in any investment product or an advice or a recommendation with respect to any investment product, and does not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs. Contracts for Difference (“CFDs”) are leveraged products and carry a high level of risk to your capital as prices may move rapidly against you. Losses can exceed your deposits and you may be required to make further payments. Countdowns carry a level of risk to your capital as you could lose all of your investment. Invest only what you can afford to lose. These products may not be suitable for all clients therefore ensure you understand the risks and seek independent advice. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
In providing the above information, SingSaver is carrying out introducing activities on behalf of financial advisers. SingSaver is not to be construed as in any way engaging or being involved in the distribution or sale of any financial product or assuming any risk or undertaking any liability in respect of any financial product. Neither singsaver.com.sg or the content on it is intended as securities brokerage or investment advice, as an offer or solicitation of an offer to sell or buy, or as an endorsement, recommendation or sponsorship of any company, security or fund. The content on singsaver.com.sg is for general information purposes only and does not review or include all available companies, products or offers. SingSaver may receive compensation from the brands providing the offers or services appearing on this website. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
CMC Invest provides an execution-only service. Investments carry risks and may not suit everyone. Refer to T&Cs & Risk Disclosures on www.cmcinvest.sg. SingSaver is a paid affiliate marketing partner of CMC Invest and may receive compensation from CMC Invest and the other brands providing the offers or services appearing on this website. Singsaver is not to be construed as in any way engaging or being involved in the distribution or sale of any financial product or assuming any risk or undertaking any liability in respect of any financial product. Neither singsaver.com.sg or the content on it is intended as securities brokerage or investment advice, as an offer or solicitation of an offer to sell or buy, or as an endorsement, recommendation or sponsorship of any company, security or fund. The content on singsaver.com.sg is for general information purposes only and does not review or include all available companies, products, or offers. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
In providing the above information, SingSaver is carrying out introducing activities on behalf of financial advisers. SingSaver is not to be construed as in any way engaging or being involved in the distribution or sale of any financial product or assuming any risk or undertaking any liability in respect of any financial product. Neither singsaver.com.sg or the content on it is intended as securities brokerage or investment advice, as an offer or solicitation of an offer to sell or buy, or as an endorsement, recommendation or sponsorship of any company, security or fund. The content on singsaver.com.sg is for general information purposes only and does not review or include all available companies, products or offers. SingSaver may receive compensation from the brands providing the offers or services appearing on this website. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
In providing the above information, SingSaver is carrying out introducing activities on behalf of financial advisers. SingSaver is not to be construed as in any way engaging or being involved in the distribution or sale of any financial product or assuming any risk or undertaking any liability in respect of any financial product. Neither singsaver.com.sg or the content on it is intended as securities brokerage or investment advice, as an offer or solicitation of an offer to sell or buy, or as an endorsement, recommendation or sponsorship of any company, security or fund. The content on singsaver.com.sg is for general information purposes only and does not review or include all available companies, products or offers. SingSaver may receive compensation from the brands providing the offers or services appearing on this website. This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
|
Broker |
Account Type |
Minimum funding |
Commission Fees (SG/US) |
Minimum platform fees |
Global market access |
|
Interactive Brokers (IBKR) |
Global broker |
None |
SG: 0.08% of the trade value USD: 0.005 per share |
FREE |
30+ market centers |
|
Tiger Brokers (Tiger Trade) |
Custodian |
US$1 |
SG: 0.03% of trade value (Min. S$0.99/Order) USD: US$0.005 per share (Min. USD 1/Order) |
SG: 0.03% of Trade Value (Min. S$1/Order) US$0.005 per Share (Min. USD 1/Order) |
SGX, NYSE/NASDAQ, HKEX, ASX |
|
Moomoo Singapore |
Custodian |
S$0 |
S$0 |
S$0 |
SGX, NYSE/NASDAQ, HKEX |
|
Syfe Brokerage |
Custodian |
S$0 |
SG: 0.060% of trade value US: 2 free trades per month (S$1.49 per trade thereafter) |
S$0 |
SGX, NYSE, NASDAQ, HKEX (stocks & ETFs) (Syfe) |
|
Endowus |
Robo-advisor |
S$1,000 |
Fees embedded in portfolios |
All-in advisory & service fee |
Global funds exposure via mutual funds, not direct stock markets |
|
Saxo Markets |
Full-service broker |
S$0 |
Varies by market |
Varies by market |
70k+ instruments |
An online brokerage is like a digital bridge between you and the financial markets. It provides a platform for you to buy and sell various investment products, such as stocks, bonds, Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), and more.
Whether you're interested in Singapore-listed companies or exploring opportunities in overseas markets, an online brokerage empowers you to manage your investments with ease and convenience.
When you decide to buy or sell an investment product, you'll use your online brokerage account to place an order. The brokerage then executes that order on the stock exchange, acting as the intermediary between you and the market. For this service, they charge a fee or commission, which can vary depending on the broker and the type of transaction.
Unlike a Central Depository (CDP) account, which holds your Singapore shares electronically, you can open multiple brokerage accounts with different firms. This allows you to take advantage of various platforms, fees, and investment options.
When you open an online brokerage account in Singapore, you’ll typically have two main choices: CDP-linked accounts and custodian accounts. Understanding how these account types work — and how their fees can impact your returns — is crucial before you start investing.
As the name suggests, a CDP-linked account is directly connected to your Central Depository (CDP) account. When you buy Singapore stocks through a CDP-linked brokerage account, the shares are deposited directly into your CDP account under your name. This gives you direct ownership of the shares, even if you change brokers later.
CDP-linked accounts are generally preferred by investors who:
Primarily invest in Singapore stocks
Prefer direct ownership of their shares
Want their holdings registered under their own name
Do not want their assets held under a broker’s custodian structure
However, this structure often comes with higher transaction costs, especially for smaller trades. Traditional brokerages that link directly to a CDP account typically charge a commission of around 0.28% per transaction, with a minimum fee of $25.
This minimum commission can significantly impact the cost of smaller trades. For investors who trade smaller amounts or invest regularly using dollar-cost averaging, these minimum fees can eat into returns over time.
Some online brokerages in Singapore that offer CDP-linked accounts include:
CGS-CIMB Securities
DBS Vickers
FSMOne
KGI Securities
Lim & Tan Securities
Maybank Securities
Kim Eng Securities
OCBC Securities
Phillip Securities (POEMS)
RHB Securities
UOB Kay Hian
With a custodian account, your shares are held by the brokerage firm on your behalf rather than being deposited directly into your CDP account. This setup is especially common — and often unavoidable — when investing in overseas markets such as the US, Hong Kong, or Europe.
You can think of the brokerage as acting as a “custodian” that safeguards your assets while allowing you to trade across multiple global markets from a single platform.
Custodian accounts can be beneficial for investors who:
Invest primarily in overseas markets
Want lower minimum commissions per trade
Prefer access to global markets through a single platform
Are comfortable with the brokerage holding their assets
|
Broker |
Account type |
Min. funding |
Commission fees (SG stocks) |
Platform / other fees |
Notes |
|
Syfe Brokerage |
Custodian |
No minimum |
From ~0.06% per trade (min fee applies) |
No platform fee |
SG stocks held under custodian, not CDP |
|
FSMOne |
Custodian (non-CDP option) |
No minimum |
From ~0.08% per trade |
No platform fee |
Offers both CDP-linked and custodian options |
|
Tiger Brokers |
Custodian |
No minimum |
~0.03% commission + platform fee (min applies) |
Platform fee per trade |
Popular for low-cost SG trades |
|
Moomoo Singapore |
Custodian |
No minimum |
$0 commission (SG stocks)* |
No platform fee* |
Zero-commission structure subject to T&Cs |
|
Webull Singapore |
Custodian |
No minimum |
~0.025% commission (min applies) |
No platform fee |
SGX access via custodian |
|
Longbridge Securities |
Custodian |
No minimum |
$0 commission (SG stocks)* |
Platform fees may apply |
Designed for low-cost frequent trades |
|
uSMART SG |
Custodian |
No minimum |
$0 commission (SG stocks)* |
Platform/settlement fees may apply |
MAS-licensed broker |
|
Broker |
Account type |
Min. funding |
Commission fees (US stocks) |
Platform / other fees |
Notes |
|
Syfe Brokerage |
Custodian |
No minimum |
$0 commission (US stocks)* |
No platform fee |
Long-term, ETF-focused investing |
|
Tiger Brokers |
Custodian |
No minimum |
From US$0.005 per share (min ~US$0.99) |
Platform fee per trade |
Supports options & ETFs |
|
Moomoo Singapore |
Custodian |
No minimum |
$0 commission (US stocks)* |
No platform fee* |
Popular for active US traders |
|
Webull Singapore |
Custodian |
No minimum |
$0 commission (US stocks)* |
No platform fee |
Advanced charting tools |
|
Longbridge Securities |
Custodian |
No minimum |
$0 commission (US stocks)* |
Platform fees may apply |
Supports fractional shares |
|
uSMART SG |
Custodian |
No minimum |
$0 commission (US stocks)* |
Platform / settlement fees may apply |
Wide international market access |
|
eToro |
Custodian / CFD (mixed) |
~US$50 |
$0 commission (US stocks) |
Spread & withdrawal fees |
Some assets traded as CFDs |
|
Saxo Markets |
Custodian |
Typically S$0–2,000 |
Tiered pricing (varies by account tier) |
Data & FX fees may apply |
Professional-grade global access |
When you open a trading account in Singapore, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is how your shares are held. Understanding the differences upfront can help you avoid unnecessary costs and choose a platform that fits your investing style.
CDP-linked accounts are generally suited to investors who:
Focus mainly on Singapore-listed stocks
Take a buy-and-hold approach to investing
Value transparency and direct ownership
Invest in blue-chip stocks or REITs for long-term income
Custodian accounts are generally better suited to investors who:
Are new to investing or starting with smaller amounts
Trade more frequently and want to keep costs low
Invest mainly in US or global stocks and ETFs
Prefer a mobile-first or app-based trading experience
In practice, many Singapore investors end up using both account types — a CDP-linked account for long-term SGX holdings, and a custodian account for overseas investments.
|
Investor profile |
Main objective |
Account type |
Platform examples |
Why it fits |
|
Long-term SGX investor |
Buy-and-hold SG stocks & REITs |
CDP-linked |
DBS Vickers, POEMS, Maybank Securities |
Direct ownership, shareholder rights, CPF/SRS compatibility |
|
Active or global trader |
Frequent US / global trading |
Custodian |
Tiger Brokers, Moomoo, Saxo Markets |
Lower commissions, access to multiple overseas markets |
|
Beginner investor |
Start small, learn the ropes |
Custodian |
Moomoo, Webull, Syfe Trade |
Low minimums, easy onboarding, educational tools |
|
ETF & fund investor |
Regular investing & diversification |
Custodian |
FSMOne, Saxo, Longbridge |
Wide ETF access, recurring investment features |
|
CPF / SRS investor |
Long-term retirement investing |
CPF-IS / SRS |
Local CDP-linked brokers |
Eligibility for government-linked schemes |
|
Mobile-first investor |
App-based trading |
Custodian |
Moomoo, Tiger Brokers, Webull |
Intuitive apps, fast setup, low barriers to entry |
|
Foreigner or PR |
Flexible access & eligibility |
Custodian |
Moomoo, Tiger, Longbridge |
Easier onboarding, broader global market access |
Singapore has a wide mix of MAS-regulated platforms — from traditional brokers and banks to app-first trading platforms. The biggest differences usually come down to:
Account structure: CDP-linked (direct SGX shareholding) vs custodian/nominee (broker holds shares on your behalf)
Market access: SGX only vs multi-market (US, HK, China A-shares, etc.)
Product range: stocks/ETFs only vs multi-asset (options, futures, FX/CFDs)
Total trading costs: commissions + platform fees + FX conversion/spreads + any custody or market data fees
As a rule of thumb, CDP-linked accounts appeal to investors prioritising direct SGX ownership, while custodian accounts are often chosen for lower fees and easier access to overseas markets.
A long-running Singapore brokerage platform that offers broad product coverage (e.g., stocks/ETFs and more) and multi-market access through its trading platforms. POEMS positions itself as a one-stop platform for investing across global exchanges.
A mobile-first brokerage with a strong focus on multi-market access and competitive pricing, with detailed fee schedules published online. It’s commonly used by investors who want access to SGX and overseas markets in one app.
moomoo is a MAS-licensed digital broker known for its trading tools and data-heavy app experience. As of 2026, moomoo provides CDP account fee documentation, which reflects that CDP-linked trading is available (so avoid calling it “custodian-only”).
A multi-asset platform designed for investors who want deep global access and advanced tools. One important cost detail to note for 2026: Saxo’s published terms state an annual custody fee applies for accounts with certain positions (e.g., stocks/ETFs/bonds), with specifics laid out on Saxo’s rates pages.
A global brokerage known for broad market access and institutional-style tooling. IBKR Lite has been launched in Singapore, and IBKR’s own pricing pages state it offers commission-free trades for US exchange-listed stocks and ETFs under Lite (with exclusions).
A digital brokerage positioned around low-cost trading. Its official pricing page outlines how fees work by market (including platform fee mechanics and GST treatment for Singapore residents).
A MAS-regulated brokerage with a strong mobile experience and a transparent pricing page. Webull’s Singapore pricing page shows fee structures by market and is explicitly marked with a “last updated” date (useful for compliance/recency).
A well-known Singapore investment platform that offers a broad range of products beyond just stocks (depending on what you’re buying), often used by investors who want to manage multiple investment types under one roof. (If you want, I can rewrite the FSMOne paragraph based on its latest product/fee pages you’re referencing in your tables.)
A bank-led trading platform for investors who prefer keeping banking + investing together. Standard Chartered markets access to 14 stock exchanges and highlights $0 custody fees as part of its value proposition (always pair this with a note that brokerage minimums/market fees may still apply).
CMC Invest emphasises a low-friction fee structure (e.g., no platform/maintenance/inactivity fees), and also markets monthly free-trade allowances by tier on its fees page.
Syfe positions its brokerage offering around access to US, SG, and HK stocks/ETFs and publishes a detailed help centre breakdown of how commission, free trade tiers, and exchange/regulatory fees work.
Integrated investment platforms combine trading, portfolio management, and wealth-building tools in one place, making them ideal for investors who want simplicity, diversified access, and consolidated account views. These platforms often go beyond traditional brokerage features by bundling investment products, analytics, and sometimes advisory services — all under a single login.
In Singapore, several notable integrated platforms offer a mix of stock trading, ETFs, funds, and portfolio management, while others tie in CPF/SRS investing or multi-asset access across global markets. Below are key examples with a snapshot of what each platform emphasises:
|
Platform |
Account Type |
Market Access |
Products Available |
Key Features |
|
Syfe Brokerage |
Custodian |
SG, US, HK |
Stocks, ETFs |
Integrated with Syfe wealth tools, simple pricing |
|
Endowus |
Managed / Fund |
Global funds (via ETFs/mutual funds) |
ETFs, Unit Trusts, Managed portfolios |
Portfolio & advisory focus with tiered Access Fee |
|
FSMOne |
CDP-linked & Custodian |
SG, US, HK, MY, UK |
Stocks, ETFs, Bonds, Unit Trusts, Insurance |
Broad product range under one account |
|
ProsperUs (CGS-CIMB) |
Custodian |
SG, US, HK, AU, EU & more |
Stocks, ETFs, Bonds, Other assets |
Global market access + research tools |
|
Standard Chartered Online Trading |
Custodian |
14+ global markets |
Stocks, ETFs |
Seamless banking + investing in one ecosystem |
|
CMC Invest |
Custodian |
SG, US (expanding) |
Stocks, ETFs |
Low fees, multi-currency, free trade allowances |
Before opening an online brokerage account, it’s important to understand how fees really work — not just what’s advertised on the homepage. Small charges can quietly add up and eat into your returns over time, especially if you trade frequently or invest smaller amounts.
Here are the key fees to watch for, along with common red flags investors often overlook.
Commission fees are charged when you buy or sell an investment. While many platforms promote “low” or “zero” commissions, the structure matters.
Some brokers charge a flat fee per trade, while others apply a percentage-based commission with a minimum charge. For example, a small trade may technically qualify for a low percentage rate, but still be hit with a minimum fee — pushing up your effective cost.
Red flag to watch: A low headline commission paired with a high minimum fee, which can make small trades disproportionately expensive.
Beyond commissions, brokers may charge additional trading-related fees, such as platform, clearing, or exchange-related charges. These are sometimes bundled together and can range from fractions of a per cent to fixed amounts per trade.
Custodian accounts typically have lower trading fees and minimum charges than CDP-linked accounts, which is why they’re often preferred by cost-sensitive or active investors.
Red flag to watch: Fees that are not clearly separated from commissions, making it hard to calculate your true cost per trade.
Most online brokers offer free electronic fund transfers, but some may charge for certain withdrawal methods, currencies, or repeated withdrawals.
Red flag to watch: Hidden charges for withdrawals or currency conversions that aren’t obvious during account sign-up.
Some fees aren’t set by the broker at all. These include exchange, clearing, and regulatory fees, such as stamp duties or transaction levies. They vary by market and are usually passed on to investors.
While these fees are unavoidable, they should still be factored into your total trading cost.
Red flag to watch: Platforms that advertise “zero fees” without clearly disclosing mandatory exchange or regulatory charges.
Certain platforms charge management or custody fees, especially for custodian accounts, managed portfolios, or specialised services. These fees are often charged annually and may be based on the value of your holdings.
Red flag to watch: Ongoing fees that apply even if you don’t trade, which can quietly erode long-term returns.
If you trade forex, CFDs, or leveraged products, spreads play a major role in your costs. A wider spread means you’re paying more each time you enter or exit a position.
Red flag to watch: Exceptionally tight spreads advertised during “ideal” market conditions, but much wider spreads during normal or volatile periods.
When investing in ETFs or mutual funds, expense ratios are charged annually and deducted from the fund’s assets. While they may seem small, higher expense ratios can significantly reduce long-term returns.
Red flag to watch: Funds with higher expense ratios that don’t clearly justify the added cost through performance or unique exposure.
With a plethora of online brokerage platforms vying for your attention, selecting the right one can feel overwhelming. There's no one-size-fits-all solution, as the ideal broker depends on your individual investment style, preferences, and financial goals.
To help you navigate this decision, consider these key factors:
As mentioned previously, fees can significantly erode your investment returns, so it's crucial to understand the fee structure of each broker. Look beyond just commission fees and delve into platform fees, deposit/withdrawal fees, and any other charges that might apply.
Consider your anticipated trading frequency and volume. If you plan to trade actively, prioritise brokers with lower commission fees or tiered pricing that rewards higher volume. For long-term investing, be mindful of custody fees and account maintenance fees that can accumulate over time.
Think about the markets and asset classes you want to invest in. Do you primarily focus on Singapore stocks, or are you interested in exploring international markets like the US or Hong Kong? Ensure the broker offers access to the specific exchanges and instruments you need.
Also, consider whether they offer fractional shares, which allow you to invest in portions of expensive stocks, making them more accessible to smaller investors.
The trading platform's user interface and overall experience can significantly impact your investment journey. A clunky or complicated platform can lead to frustration and poor decision-making. Look for a platform that is intuitive, easy to navigate, and offers the features you need.
Consider whether you prefer a web-based platform, a mobile app for trading on the go, or a desktop application with advanced charting tools.
For more experienced traders, the availability of advanced charting tools, technical indicators, and research resources is essential. These tools can help you analyse market trends, identify potential trading opportunities, and make informed investment decisions.
Assess the broker's research offerings, including market news, analyst ratings, and educational materials.
Different brokers offer various account types with different features and minimum deposit requirements. Consider your investment goals and the level of service you need.
Some brokers cater to casual investors with basic accounts and low minimum deposits, while others target active traders with premium accounts and higher deposit requirements. Choose an account type that aligns with your investment strategy and financial capacity.
Read the latest news about Online Brokerage products in Singapore and the best money saving tips.