Updated: 21 Aug 2025
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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. Remember that CFDs are a leveraged product and can result in the loss of your entire capital. Trading CFDs may not be suitable for some investors. Please ensure you fully understand the risks involved. The listed provider is licensed and regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. 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.
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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.
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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.
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.
Here's a quick look at some of the leading online brokerage platforms in Singapore:
Trading Platforms |
Minimum Deposit |
Minimum Spread (USD/EUR) |
Minimum Commission Fee |
Time to Open Account |
|
|
Web, Mobile |
S$0 |
Variable |
$0 |
1 day |
|
Web, Mobile |
S$0 |
Variable |
$0 |
1 to 3 days |
|
Web, Mobile |
US$1,000 |
Variable |
US$0.99 for US stocks 0.03% of trade value for SG stocks |
1 to 3 days |
|
Web, Mobile, Desktop |
S$0 |
Variable |
US$1.00 for US stocks S$2.50 for SG stocks |
1 to 3 days |
|
Web, Mobile, Desktop |
S$0 |
Variable |
US$0 for US stocks S$3.00 for SG stocks |
1 day |
|
Web, Mobile, Desktop |
S$0 |
Variable |
US$3.00 for US stocks S$2.00 for SG stocks |
1 day |
|
Web, Mobile, Desktop |
S$200 |
Variable |
$0 |
1 day |
Read the latest news about Online Brokerage products in Singapore and the best money saving tips.
Now that you have an overview of some of the best online brokers in Singapore, let's dive deeper into what online brokerages are and how they work.
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 is where your Singapore shares are held 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 the differences between these account types is crucial for making the right decision for your investment needs.
CDP-linked accounts
As the name suggests, a CDP-linked account is directly connected to your Central Depository (CDP) account – the electronic register where your Singapore shares are held. When you buy Singapore stocks through a CDP-linked account, the shares are directly deposited into your CDP account under your name, giving you direct ownership of the shares.
CDP-linked accounts are generally preferred by investors who:
Custodian accounts
With a custodian account, your shares are held by the brokerage firm on your behalf. This is common for investors buying overseas stocks, as it simplifies the process of dealing with foreign markets and regulations. You can think of it as the brokerage firm acting as a "custodian" for your investments.
Custodian accounts can be beneficial for those who:
Compare the pros and cons of a CDP-linked vs custodian account here.
Before you start investing, it's essential to understand the various fees associated with online brokerage accounts. These fees can eat into your returns if you're not careful, so it's crucial to factor them into your investment decisions. Here's a breakdown of the common fees you might encounter:
When you buy or sell any investment, you'll typically incur a commission fee. This is essentially the broker's charge for executing your trade. These fees can vary considerably. For instance, Saxo offers commission-free trading on US stocks but charges S$3.00 for Singapore stocks, while Tiger Brokers charges US$0.99 for US stocks and 0.03% of the trade value for SG stocks.
If you're a frequent trader, prioritise brokers with competitive commission structures, potentially with tiered fees that decrease as your trading volume increases.
Beyond commissions, there are trading fees, a broader category encompassing platform fees, clearing fees, and other charges related to executing your orders. These can range from 0.08% to 0.275% per trade, so it's crucial to carefully review your broker's fee schedule. Custodian accounts tend to have both lower trading fees and minimum commission fees.
Depositing and withdrawing funds can also incur charges. While many brokers offer free electronic transfers, some may impose a small fee or percentage-based charge. Look for platforms that minimise these costs to avoid unnecessary deductions from your investment capital.
Keep in mind that regulatory and transaction fees can also come into play. These are charges imposed by regulatory bodies or the stock exchange itself. Examples include clearing fees, stamp duties, and transaction levies. These fees can vary depending on the market you're trading in, so factor them into your investment strategy.
Some brokers may charge management fees for maintaining your account, particularly for specialised services or custodian accounts. Evaluate these fees against the benefits provided to ensure they align with your investment goals and horizon.
When trading assets like forex and CFDs, pay close attention to spreads, the difference between the bid and ask price. Wider spreads can increase your trading costs, so opt for brokers offering tighter spreads where possible.
If you're investing in ETFs or mutual funds, be aware of their expense ratios. These annual fees cover the fund's operating expenses and are expressed as a percentage of the fund's assets. Lower expense ratios translate to higher net returns over time.
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.
We understand that taking the first step into the world of investing can feel daunting. That's why we're here to answer some common questions and provide clarity on online brokerages.
In Singapore, you must be at least 18 years old to open an online brokerage account and start investing.
Online brokerages offer a diverse range of investment products to suit different needs and risk appetites. Depending on the broker you choose, you can invest in:
Yes, you can typically transfer your investments from one brokerage to another. This process is known as a "brokerage transfer" or "account transfer." However, there might be associated fees and paperwork involved, so it's best to check with both brokerages for specific instructions and costs.
This would depend on your risk appetite, investment horizon and financial goals. If you have plans to make frequent trades, you can consider a brokerage that offers the lowest fees in order for you to incur lower costs with each trade.
If you have plans to hold the stocks for the long term, it may be best to use a CDP-linked account so that your holdings are consolidated in your CDP account and you avoid paying any custodian fees.
Common strategies to consider include:
These are just a few examples, and there are many other investment strategies you can explore. It's essential to research and understand different approaches to find the ones that best align with your individual circumstances and investment objectives.
In Singapore, there are generally no capital gains taxes on profits from investments. However, you might incur dividend taxes or withholding taxes on foreign investments, depending on the country and your tax residency status. It's advisable to consult with a tax advisor for personalised guidance on tax implications related to your investments.