Singapore’s financial regulator has appointed five new asset managers and allocated S$1.45 billion to support the local equities market, reinforcing efforts to make Singapore a more attractive destination for investors and companies.
- S$1.45 billion allocated to five global asset managers
- Programme expanded to S$6.5 billion since 2025 launch
- New grant scheme supports liquidity for small- and mid-cap stocks
What happened
The Monetary Authority of Singapore recently appointed five asset managers—Amundi, Franklin Templeton, HSBC Asset Management, M&G Investments, and Natixis Investment Managers—under its Equity Market Development Programme (EQDP). This marks the third batch of managers receiving support from the programme, which has grown to a total allocation of S$6.5 billion since its launch in early 2025. The latest allocation of S$1.45 billion brings the total placed capital to S$5.4 billion across 14 managers to date.
In addition to these allocations, MAS announced a new initiative to boost trading liquidity for around 80 eligible small- and mid-cap stocks by introducing the Grant for Equity Market Singapore (GEMS) scheme. Backed with S$20 million from the Financial Sector Development Fund, this grant aims to encourage market makers to improve liquidity for key stocks, including newly listed companies, until the end of 2028.
Why it feels good
These investments and support schemes reflect Singapore’s commitment to enhancing its stock market’s growth and global competitiveness. By engaging reputable asset managers with strong regional expertise and global networks, the initiative is expected to attract fresh international capital. This not only broadens investor participation but also helps to diversify and deepen the local market, creating a more vibrant and robust financial environment.
Furthermore, the targeted approach to support liquidity in smaller and newly listed stocks helps address common challenges faced by emerging companies in maintaining active trading. This fosters a healthier market ecosystem that benefits institutional and retail investors alike, while also encouraging quality jobs and investment capabilities in Singapore’s financial sector.
What to enjoy or watch next
Looking forward, MAS is currently reviewing proposals for a fourth batch of asset managers, with decisions expected in 2027. This signals ongoing efforts to nurture and expand Singapore’s asset management landscape, offering more opportunities for investors to engage with the region through trusted financial partners.
Investors and market participants can also look out for developments and benefits stemming from the GEMS liquidity grant, which aims to improve the trading environment for a key segment of the market. Continued enhancements like these contribute directly to making Singapore a more attractive place for listings, fundraising, and investment exits in the years ahead.