Whether in your 20s or 30s, it’s time to start planning your financial future. Saving money may help you earn through interest generated over time, but a well-diversified investment portfolio can substantially increase your wealth. That’s where brokerages and trading platforms become valuable, especially for beginners.
Brokerages and trading platforms provide beginner investors with essential tools, educational content, and global access to various markets. They bridge the gap between investors and the world of investments, making it easier to build a diversified portfolio.
As such, finding the right brokerage platform is crucial to your investment journey. It should align with your investment goals, cater to your educational needs, and match your risk affinity. Each brokerage has its unique fee structure, platform features, and customer support quality. Here we will look into some of the best brokerages and trading platforms in Singapore to help you choose the right one for you.
What Is a Brokerage Account?
A brokerage account is an investment account where you can buy and sell various investment products, including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds).
Unlike a savings account, where you can passively grow your money through interest, diversifying your portfolio through a brokerage or trading account means actively participating in the financial market. When done right, this option can yield higher returns than traditional savings accounts.
Some of the most well-known brokerages in Singapore include DBS Vickers, SAXO Markets, Tiger Brokers, and more. Rest assured that the Monetary Authority of Singapore regulates brokerage and trading platforms operating in Singapore. They adhere to strict rules and regulations to protect investors. However, investors are encouraged to thoroughly research, plan, and consider their risk tolerance before investing through their brokerage accounts.
Brokerage Account Fees and Charges
The brokerage account fees and charges will vary per brokerage. However, the commission fee is the main cost you will incur when using a brokerage or trading platform. This fee is charged every time you make a trade – buy or sell an investment product. Aside from commission fees, some brokerages may charge a minimum fee for trades.
| Type of account | What it is | Minimum commission fee |
| CDP Accounts | The stocks are purchased under your name and credited to your CPD account | Between S$8.80 and S$25 per trade |
| Custodian Account | The stocks are purchased through a nominee account that the brokerage firm manages. | Between S$0 and S$28 per trade |
Note that these fees can impact your overall investment returns. That said, it’s crucial to consider them and any hidden fees when choosing a brokerage platform.
Factors To Consider When Choosing a Brokerage or Trading Platform
How do you pick the one that meets your investment needs with different online brokerage firms? An online broker can significantly impact your investing experience and potential returns, but before settling for one, consider these factors:
- Cost of using the brokerage service: Note that fees can affect investment returns. As previously discussed, most brokerage firms impose a minimum commission fee. Some may even charge a minimum transaction fee for buying and selling. So take these into account. Most importantly, look out for hidden costs, such as annual fees, account maintenance fees, withdrawal fees, inactivity fees, and other extra charges.
- Ease of use: Not all online broker apps are made equal. Some may be user-friendly and intuitive, regardless of your experience level. When choosing a brokerage firm, consider whether their online app has the needed features. Plus, the app must be fast and responsive, have a clear information display, quick order execution, and easy access to account services are essential.
- Account opening process: Opening an account should be straightforward and hassle-free. It’s a plus if the brokerage offers an online account opening with a simple verification process.
- Minimum investment amount: Depending on your financial situation, the minimum amount required to start investing can be significant. Some brokerages may require a large initial deposit, while others might allow you to start with a small amount. For example, Moomoo charges a minimum fee of $1.99 for US shares, including platform and commission fees.
- Customer Support: Look for a brokerage that offers prompt, reliable, and accessible customer service. This is particularly important for beginners who need help understanding various features or dealing with any issues that might arise.
- User Reviews and Feedback: Online reviews, ratings, and comments can provide insights into the user experience and the reliability of the brokerage. While it’s important not to rely solely on these, they can be useful when combined with other factors.
Best Brokerage Accounts To Use in Singapore
| Brokerage and Trading Platform | Best for | Minimum Fee(based on Singapore Stocks) | Trading Fee(based on Singapore Stocks) |
| MoomooSG | Low Fees | 0.03% | 0.0075% |
| Syfe Trade | US Stocks and ETFs | S$0 | 0.06%*traded value (min. S$1.98) |
| DBS Vickers | Singapore Stocks | S$25 S$10 for Cash Upfront Account | 0.0075% |
| SAXO Markets | Minimal fees | S$2 | 0.08% |
| Tiger Brokers | Accessing Global Markets | 0.03% | 0.0075% |
1. Moomoo SG
Moomoo, powered by Futu SG, is a renowned trading platform in Singapore known for its comprehensive trading tools and intuitive user interface. Its commission-free trading for US, HK, and SG markets makes it a compelling choice for cost-conscious investors. Additionally, it offers seamless and secure access to global financial markets right at your fingertips, promoting a convenient and flexible trading experience.
Key Features
- Lifetime commission-free trading for the U.S. market
- Low platform fee of S$0.99/order (except for commission-fee months)
- The platform provides comprehensive and real-time market data, advanced charting capabilities, and smart alert features for effective trading.
Fees: S$0 commission fee for US stocks and ETFs and S$0.99/order platform fee. You can check out Moomoo’s fees here.
Account Opening
Requirements:
- Copy of your NRIC and proof of address* (Not required for users who complete the application form using their SingPass details via MyInfo)
- Passport photo page and proof of address (for Foreigners)
- Your employment status
- Your financial status
- Your tax information
Steps to Open an Account:
- Install and Sign up with Moomoo
- Choose Open Account
- Select if you are a Singapore citizen or permanent resident
- Verify your Email
- Complete the online application form
- Submit your application
Promos
- Get a guaranteed Coca-cola stock* and up to S$288* cash coupon (*T&Cs apply)
- 1-year commission-free for SG Market
- Lifetime Commission-Free in the U.S. Stock Market*
- Get S$150* fund cash coupons
- Free Level 1 Singapore Market Data
2. Syfe Trade
Founded in 2019, Syfe has become a leading digital investment platform in the Asia-Pacific region. It offers users a straightforward and efficient investing experience by offering a range of low-cost, curated portfolios that span different asset classes and risk levels.
With Syfe Trade, you can seamlessly invest in stocks and ETFs. The platform has powerful in-app discovery tools for insights and market data. As such, its emphasis on simplicity and affordability makes it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced investors.
Key Features
- Offers free monthly trades and competitive fees
- Introductory offer of 5 free trades per month
- Simple and easy-to-use interface
Fees: S$0 minimum commission fee for US stocks. 0.06%*traded value (min. S$1.98) for SG stocks
Account Opening
Requirements:
- Minimum Age: 18 years old
- No document requirements when applying through Singpass
Steps to Open an Account:
- Download the Syfe app and sign up for a Syfe Trade account. Use Singpass to verify your identity instantly OR manually enter your details and upload supporting documents.
- Complete your KYC verification
- Complete your investment knowledge assessment
- Sign the necessary contract details
- Transfer funds to your Syfe Trade buying power using PayNow, Fast, Telegraphic Transfer, or other methods and start trading
Promos
- Receive S$20 with the code “TRADE20” when you sign up with Syfe Trade and buy any stock of your choice.
3. DBS Vickers
DBS Vickers, the brokerage arm of DBS Bank, offers outstanding trading services that allow access to a wide range of global markets. What stands out about DBS Vickers is its low minimum commission fee of S$10 when you buy Singapore stocks. Other investment products they offer include bonds, ETFs, REITs, structured warrants, and more.
Known for its reliability and comprehensive market research, DBS Vickers caters to both novice and experienced investors seeking a secure platform with in-depth market insights.
Key Features
- DBS Vickers provides direct access to a wide range of markets worldwide, enabling investors to diversify their portfolios across geographies.
- A subsidiary of DBS bank, making it one of the safest brokerages in Asia
- S$0 account opening and no initial deposit or fee required.
Fees: Min. commission fee of S$10 for Cash Upfront Account. You can check out their pricing here.
Account Opening
There are different ways to trade using DBS Vickers, including:
- DBS Vickers Online Platform
- DBS Vickers mTrading App
- Investment Service Center
Here’s how you can start trading using their online platform:
- Simply login via your DBS/POSB iBanking account
- Complete your application online
- If you want to trade in the Singapore securities market, you’ll need a Central Depository (CDP) account.
Promos
- Receive S$30 cash reward when you open an account and make a cash upfront trade on the DBS Vickers app.
4. Saxo Markets
Saxo Markets provides a premium trading platform with access to global financial markets and is one of the best online brokerage and trading platforms in Singapore. It combines low cost, excellent market access, and a user-friendly interface.
Known for its sophisticated trading tools and vast range of tradable assets, Saxo Markets caters to serious investors who require advanced trading features and a comprehensive investment product suite. Currently, SAXO offers bonds, futures, ETFs, mutual funds, stocks, CFDs, and more.
Key Features
- No deposit fees, withdrawal fees, and withdrawal limits
- Access to over 22,000 stocks and more than 6,400 ETFs across 37 exchanges worldwide
- The platform provides advanced trading tools and detailed analytics to facilitate informed trading decisions.
Fees: Min. commission fee of S$2 and a trading fee of 0.08% for the Singapore Market; Min. commission fee of S$4 and a trading fee of 0.06% for the US Market.
Account Opening
Before applying, SAXO suggests interested investors read the following documents:
- General Business Terms
- Order Execution Policy
- Conflict of Interest Policy and
- Risk Disclosure Notice
To apply:
- If you’re a Singaporean or Permanent Resident, simply complete their online form using your Singpass details via Myinfo.
5. Tiger Brokers
Tiger Brokers, a leading online brokerage firm in Singapore, offers a comprehensive and seamless trading experience across various global markets. It is also one of the cheapest online brokers, offering a low fee of 0.03% for the Singapore Market. Best of all, it has no hidden fees while providing easy access to global markets.
Known for its competitive fees and state-of-the-art technology, Tiger Brokers is an excellent choice for both new and seasoned investors seeking a cost-effective and efficient trading platform.
Key Features
- Supports U.S. equities, HK equities, ETFs, options, and futures
- No inactivity fee or custodian fee
- Low commission fees for various markets, helping to maximize your returns.
Fees: 0.03% trading fee for Singapore, HK, China, and Australia Markets; $0.005 trading fee for US Markets
Account Opening
Document Requirements:
- Identity document
- Proof of residential address
- Tax residency and tax identification number (if any)
- The name and address of your employer
- Investment objectives and experience, etc.
To open an account:
- Login to Tiger Trade APP and click ‘Open Account Now’
- Enter personal info to continue
- Choose an account opening method: via MyInfo or manual filling
- If you choose MyInfo, you will be directed to the SingPass login page to retrieve your info.
- For the manual filling, simply input all the necessary personal information
- Read and agree to the agreements and disclosures
- Upload the documents required
- Complete the face verification to complete the account opening application.
Promos
- Get rewards worth up to S$410 with a 6% guaranteed return when you open an account.
Conclusion
When choosing the best online brokerages in Singapore, you need to understand your investment goals. Plus, you must also consider the costs involved, such as min. trading fees and investment brokerage fees, as well as compare various platform features. Remember, a well-chosen brokerage is a crucial stepping stone on your journey toward successful investing.
Key Takeaways:
- Ensure your chosen platform aligns with your investment goals and offers suitable tools and resources for your investing strategy.
- Be aware of all costs involved, including transaction fees, account maintenance fees, and other charges that can impact your returns.
- Look for a user-friendly platform that offers advanced trading tools, comprehensive market data, and strong customer support.
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