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Best Crypto Exchange in Singapore (MAS-Regulated Options)
Singapore has quickly established itself as one of Asia's top cryptocurrency hubs, thanks to strong legal frameworks, government backing for digital asset innovation, and increasing popularity among retail and institutional investors alike.
As interest grows, more Singaporeans are looking into cryptocurrency as an asset class, whether for long-term investment, trading, or diversification.
However, with potential comes risk. In 2024 alone, criminals stole over S$230 million in cryptocurrency in Singapore, emphasizing the essential need of selecting the correct platforms to trade safely and securely.
This guide will walk you through the finest cryptocurrency exchanges in Singapore, focusing on licensed platforms that provide high security, ease of use, and features targeted to both novice and experienced traders.
Why trade with licensed cryptocurrency exchanges in Singapore?
In Singapore, all cryptocurrency exchanges and wallet providers that deal with digital payment tokens (DPTs) such as Bitcoin or Ethereum are subject to the Payment Services Act (PSA). As of April 2025, MAS had issued licenses to 33 major payment institutions for Digital Payment Token services.
Best Crypto Exchange in Singapore (MAS-Regulated Options)
The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) enforces this regulation, which ensures that digital asset service providers meet severe criteria for anti-money laundering (AML), counter-terrorism financing (CTF), technical risk management, and consumer fund preservation.
Trading on a MAS-regulated exchange provides additional protection for cryptocurrency investors. It indicates that the platform is subject to frequent audits, has transparent operational standards, and complies with consumer protections.
While the MAS does not guarantee against losses, regulation reduces the possibility of fraud or operational failure, providing investors more confidence when managing digital assets.
MAS-regulated cryptocurrency exchanges in Singapore
Here’s a breakdown of some of the top crypto exchanges that have been approved by MAS:
| Exchange | Trading Fees | Cryptocurrencies | Trading type | Purchase Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Coinhako | 0.6% | 130+ | Spot only | PayNow & FAST |
| Independent Reserve | 0.5% | 25+ | Spot only | PayNow, FAST or SWIFT bank transfer |
| Crypto.com | Up to 0.25% (maker fees); up to 0.5% (taker fees) | 250+ | Spot and derivative | Bank transfers, credit cards, debit cards, and cryptocurrency transfers |
| Coinbase | Up to 0.45% | 210+ | Spot only | Debit card, FAST or SWIFT bank transfer |
| Upbit | 0.2% – 0.25% | 150+ | Spot only | PayNow, FAST |
| OKX | 0.1% (both maker and taker fees) | <100 | Spot and derivative | PayNow, FAST, credit/debit cards |
| Gemini | 1.49% transaction fee & 1.00% convenience fee | 70+ | Spot and derivative | FAST, ACH, Wire transfer, debit card, Google/ Apple pay, Paypal, CUBIX, xPULSE |
MAS-regulated non-exchange platforms for buying crypto in Singapore
| Exchange | Trading Fees | Cryptocurrencies |
|---|---|---|
| Revolut | 1.49% (free) or 0.99% (paid) | 130+ |
| Moomoo | 0.3% | BTC, ETH, BCH, XRP, DOT, and ADA |
| DBS Digital Exchange (DDEx) | Only for accredited and institutional investors | BTC, ETH, BCH, XRP, DOT, and ADA |
While MAS-regulated cryptocurrency exchanges are the most popular way to purchase and sell cryptocurrency in Singapore, they may not be the best option for everyone. Some consumers prefer non-exchange systems for a variety of reasons.
- Convenience: If you currently bank with DBS, use Revolut, or trade with Moomoo, it may be easier to acquire cryptocurrency within your existing financial ecosystem rather than setting up an account with a separate exchange.
- Regulatory Confidence – Banks and established fintech organizations frequently adhere to tougher financial rules, which may make some investors feel safer than standalone crypto exchanges.
- Institutional & Accredited Investors – DBS Digital Exchange and Sygnum Bank offer professional-grade crypto services, including trading, custody, tokenization, and wealth management.
However, there are several disadvantages in using these platforms:
- Limited Crypto Selection – Non-exchange platforms typically support only a few major cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum.
- Trading costs on bank-backed platforms or fintech apps are typically higher compared to MAS-regulated crypto exchanges.
- Some services, like Revolut, do not enable withdrawals to external wallets, implying you do not completely “own” the cryptocurrency in a self-custodial sense.
Fee structure for bitcoin exchanges
Trading on a cryptocurrency exchange is not free; each order, deposit, and withdrawal may incur fees. Here's what you should know.
1. Trading fees: Most exchanges use a maker-taker model, with fees based on whether liquidity is added or removed from the market.
2. Deposit and withdrawal fees: FAST or PayNow bank transfers, which are normally free for deposits, are supported by the majority of significant cryptocurrency exchanges in Singapore. Because of this, funding your cryptocurrency wallet straight from your local bank account is incredibly practical and economical.
However, fiat withdrawals aren’t always free. When you return your money to your bank, some platforms impose a flat cost (Independent Reserve charges S$1.5). One of the few that provides free withdrawals is OKX.
Due to the hefty fees (about 3%–4%), using credit or debit cards for deposits is not advised.
3. Deposit and withdrawal fees: FAST or PayNow bank transfers, which are normally free for deposits, are supported by the majority of significant cryptocurrency exchanges in Singapore. Because of this, funding your cryptocurrency wallet straight from your local bank account is incredibly practical and economical.
However, fiat withdrawals aren’t always free. When you return your money to your bank, some platforms impose a flat cost (Independent Reserve charges S$1.5). One of the few that provides free withdrawals is OKX.
Due to the hefty fees (about 3%–4%), using credit or debit cards for deposits is not advised.
Safety tips for trading cryptocurrency in Singapore
1. Make use of MAS-regulated platforms
Exchanges with MAS licenses adhere to KYC/AML regulations, which lowers the risk of fraud.
2. Keep an eye on peer-to-peer (P2P) trading.
Unregulated but not illegal, no consumer protection, increased chance of fraud.
P2P cryptocurrency transactions may be reported as suspicious by banks.
3. DEX (Decentralized Exchanges) usage:
100% self-custody without a MAS license system, but no protection in the event that money is lost.
There is a greater chance of dealing with illegal monies if there is no KYC.
4. Why CEXs are safer
- MAS-regulated platforms provide fraud prevention, dispute resolution, and better security.
5. Secure your crypto holdings
- Use hardware wallets for long-term storage.
- Enable 2FA & withdrawal whitelisting.
- Avoid phishing scams—always verify URLs before logging in.