Expand your financial horizons in Singapore with Enterworld. Get your Capital Market Services license in Singapore with an easy licensing process and secure your financial operations. We have helped 597+ founders in securing a Capital Market Services License in Singapore.
Get Singapore Capital Markets Services (CMS) License with Enterworld
Enterworld empowers you with a Singapore Capital Markets Services (CMS) license.
We will help you understand the complex regulations of the CMS license.
Enterworld will conduct an eligibility assessment in accordance with the MAS.
Assist you in preparing for the important documents, such as a business plan, etc.
Our professionals will ensure your company complies with the MAS before applying for the license.
Enterworld will assist with minimum capital requirements and financial structuring.
Help fill up Form 1 for the Capital Markets Services (CMS) license with MAS.
We will help you choose the right type of CMS license based on your regulated activity.
Enterworld will offer customised solutions to queries and offer post-license support.
3 to 6 Months
CMS License
No
Travel Required
100%
Foreign Ownership
Yes
Remote Process
SPecial offer
40% Off
Looking for a Capital Market Services License in Singapore?
Singapore has been recognized as the leading financial hub in the world. If you are thinking of entering the financial market of the country, obtaining the Capital Market Services (CMC) license is the first step. However, understanding the regulatory landscape is important before proceeding with the license application for a capital market services license in Singapore.
The Singapore Capital Markets Services (CMS) License is granted by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), and once approved, the licensed companies can engage in regulated financial activities. This includes fund management, securities financing, market operator and other capital market services. Worried about complexities in the journey of the Capital Market Services License in Singapore? Let our experts at Enterworld let you sit back, relax, and focus on your business while we streamline the licensing process.
Empowering Founders in the Financial Services Industry
Capital Market Services (CMS) License in Singapore
What are the Types of Singapore Capital Markets Services (CMS) License?
In Singapore, the MAS authorizes the CMS license depending on the regulated business activity within the capital markets. Each CMS license in Singapore has its own requirements; it is therefore important to understand the license types before applying. Below are the different types of Singapore Capital Markets Services (CMS) license for financial institutions-
A capital market services fund management license allows licensed companies to conduct business activities related to fund management. It includes managing portfolios and collective investment schemes on behalf of investors, such as asset management and the management of private equity and investment funds. This license authorizes fund managers to professionally manage funds in accordance with regulatory requirements set by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).
Dealing in Securities
A capital market services license for businesses dealing in securities allows companies to operate activities, such as buying, trading, subscribing and selling securities on behalf of clients or their own account. This license is also required for companies offering advice on securities or futures contracts. Both professional individuals and corporate entities, like securities trading companies and brokerage firms, can apply for the Singapore Capital Market Services (CMS) license.
Real Estate Investment Trust
A capital market services license for Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) is for registered companies operating and managing within the real estate sector. With the license, the legal entity can conduct business activities, such as management, acquisition and disposal of REIT assets. The REIT capital market services license will also involve overseeing real estate investment by complying with the rules and regulations set by the MAS.
Leveraged Foreign Exchange Trading
Leveraged Foreign Exchange Trading CMS license in Singapore is for registered companies involved in spot foreign exchange contracts. The licensed companies can also provide forex trading platforms and facilitate margin-based foreign exchange transactions for clients. This license confirms that the company complies with the regulatory standards and safeguards the interests of market participants. Additionally, the company will have to implement strict internal compliance measures.
Custody
The CMS custody license in Singapore will allow registered companies to offer custodial services for securities and other assets. The business activities involved with custody CMS license include safekeeping, administration of assets and settlement of client’s assets. To offer custodial services in Singapore, you will need a CMS 6 license. The major legal entities offering custody services are trust companies, banks and other financial institutions.
Securities Financing
The CMS license for securities financing is for legal entities involved in securities financing activities. It includes borrowing, lending, and repurchasing of agreements. To apply for this Capital Market Services (CMS) License in Singapore, the companies must demonstrate strong financial stability. The license enables companies to support liquidity and financing needs in the securities market while operating in compliance with regulations set by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).
Recognized Market Operator
A Capital Market Services License in Singapore for a recognized market operator is required for businesses providing trading facilities or alternative trading systems and exchanges in Singapore. As a market operator, the company will also be involved in setting rules for the market and facilitating the trading of financial instruments. This license ensures that the market operators maintain fair practices and operate transparently in accordance with MAS guidelines.
Capital Market Services (CMS) License in Singapore
What are the Capital Markets (CMS) License Requirements in Singapore?
Under the regulations of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), the Capital Markets (CMS) license application mandates meeting specific Capital Markets (CMS) license requirements in Singapore, such as:
Appoint Directors and CEO
The Capital Markets (CMS) license applicant will have to appoint two directors; one must be a resident of Singapore. A CEO with an experience of at least 10 years will also be required, who is a resident of Singapore.
Demonstrate Financial Capability
The applicant will have to show proof of financial capability to conduct capital market (CMS) services and deposit a minimum capital of around S$250,000 to get a Capital Market Services (CMS) License in Singapore. The exact amount of capital will vary based on specific regulated activity.
Prepare Compliance Structures
A strong risk assessment management framework and internal policies will have to be implemented by the applicant. Proper compliance and governance structures must be prepared to stay compliant with a Capital market services license in Singapore.
How to Apply for a Capital Market Services License in Singapore?
To legally operate as a financial institution in Singapore, you will need to obtain the CMS license. The application procedure for a capital market services license in Singapore is as follows:
Fill Up Form 1
Fill up Form 1 under the Securities and Futures (Licensing and Conduct of Business) Regulations. This form can be filled up online through the Monetary Authority of Singapore portal.
Prepare the Documents
Application of the CMS license requires preparing essential documents like a detailed business plan, compliance manuals and financial projections and also meeting the eligibility criteria set by the MAS.
Submission of Application
Once the form 1 is filled and documents uploaded, pay the application fee of $1000, which is non-refundable. After payment of the application fee, you can submit the form, which will be reviewed by the authorities.
What are the Benefits of a Capital Market Services (CMS) License in Singapore?
Obtaining a Capital Market Services (CMS) license in Singapore offers numerous benefits for financial institutions. These benefits make it easier for individuals and financial service providers to have smooth business operations. Below is a list of key benefits, which includes:
Having a CMS license in Singapore will confirm that you have complied with the regulatory requirements set by the MAS (Monetary Authority of Singapore). This will promote a transparent and standardised financial ecosystem.
Market Integrity
The Capital Market Services (CMS) license in Singapore will contribute to maintaining the integrity of financial markets. It will also help prevent malpractices and financial fraud, fostering a business-friendly environment with trust.
Access to Capital Market Opportunities
Obtaining a Capital Market Services (CMS) license in Singapore will give you access to capital market opportunities in the thriving financial hub of Singapore. The license gives you the authority to collaborate with major financial investors.
Investor Protection
The CMS license in Singapore is designed to protect the interests of investors by making sure that the legal entities are adhering to the compliance requirements, maintaining financial integrity and practising ethical procedures.
Professional Credibility
Obtaining a Singapore Capital Markets Services (CMS) License will give the financial institutions professional credibility. It also serves as a mark of professionalism and commitment to comply with the regulatory standards set by the MAS (Monetary Authority of Singapore).
Competitive Advantage
Having a Singapore Capital Markets Services (CMS) License gives your business a distinct competitive edge in the financial market compared to unlicensed competitors. It positions you as a trusted player in the financial industry and attracts more investors and clients.
Global Recognition
The country’s financial regulatory framework and license are recognised globally. Therefore, holding a Capital Market Services (CMS) License in Singapore will help your business expand internationally and demonstrate compliance with international standards.
Business Sustainability
When financial companies with the Capital Market Services (CMS) License in Singapore comply with the regulatory requirements, it will offer long-term sustainability for the business. Additionally, it will help you mitigate reputational and legal risks.
Documents Required
What are the Essential Documents for a Capital Market Services License in Singapore?
Application form 1
Company details
Personal details (directors or key personnel)
Type of regulated activity
Financial requirements
Compliance policies
Fit and proper evidence
Scanned copies of the audited financial statements
Capital Market Services (CMS) License in Singapore
Who Needs to Apply for a CMS License in Singapore?
Corporate Finance Advisers
Clients Dealing in Capital Markets Products
Product Financing Provider
Fund Managers
Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) Managers
Credit Rating Services Providers
Custodial Services for Securities
Securities and Future Intermediaries
Market Operators
Top Reasons to Choose Enterworld
Why Trust Enterworld for Capital Market Services License in Singapore?
Compliance with SFA
End-to-End Support for CMS License
100% Success Rate for CMS Approval
Secured 590+ CMS Licenses in Singapore
24/7 Dedicated Professional Available
Direct MAS Liaison
Local Consultants in Singapore
CMS Licensing Advisory
FAQs on Singapore Capital Markets Services (CMS) License
The Singapore Capital Market Services (CMS) license is a legal approval that allows Singaporean entities to trade in various financial services. The license is granted by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). Additionally, this license confirms that the entities comply with regulatory standards and protect the investors.
The Financial Services and Markets Act 2022 (FSMA) is an omnibus act for sector-wide regulation of various financial services and markets. Additionally, the FSMA has been implemented in phases since 2023 and enhances the powers of MAS to supervise the financial institutions.
Below are a few different types of MAS licenses available in Singapore:
CMS license dealing with capital market products, corporate finance advisory, and custodial services.
Licensed Fund Management Company
Registered Fund Management Company
Financial Advisers License (FA)
Exempt Corporate Finance Advisory (ECA) and others.
The time required to process the CMS license in Singapore is between 3 and 6 months. However, the exact time taken will vary and depend on the application submitted. The application time will be longer if the applicant has a complex business model and requires additional approvals.
The full form of MAS is the Monetary Authority of Singapore, which is a financial regulator and the central bank of Singapore. The MAS is responsible for managing currency and overseeing the country’s financial sector.
To obtain a Capital Market Services (CMS) license in Singapore, you will have to follow a comprehensive application process, which includes submitting essential documents, showing commitment to regulatory compliance, and demonstrating the company’s financial stability and operational capabilities.
The key reasons why a CMS License in Singapore is important are that it confirms that the companies comply with the required regulations, contributes to maintaining the integrity of financial markets and offers professional credibility.
The important compliance and ongoing obligations for a capital market services license in Singapore include:
Companies must maintain strict adherence to guidelines set by the MAS.
Companies must prepare strong internal controls and risk management systems.
Licensed companies must implement compliance policies and procedures for AML CFT and data protection.
Companies must submit periodic reports and statements to the MAS.
Licensed companies must appoint an experienced compliance officer.
To be eligible for the Capital Market Services (CMS) license, the applicant must meet the criteria set by the MAS (Monetary Authority of Singapore), which includes:
Applicant must be a company registered under the Companies Act.
The applicant must have a permanent place of business in Singapore.
The applicant must show proof of financial capability and stability and have a minimum capital of S$250,000.
The applicant must confirm and meet the fit and proper criteria set by the MAS.
The Capital Market Services (CMS) licensing requirements set by the MAS in Singapore include:
The applicant must be able to fulfil the financial requirements of the specific regulated activity.
A minimum of 2 directors (one director must be a resident of Singapore)
A CEO with 10 years of experience who is residing in Singapore.
At least 2 full-time representatives (based out of Singapore, except for REIT management).
Strong risk management framework and compliance framework.
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