Best Crypto Exchanges in Singapore

Best Crypto Exchanges in Singapore

Summary: Cryptocurrency trading in Singapore is supported by a clear regulatory framework enforced by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). MAS regulates exchanges under the Payment Services Act, ensuring compliance with anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing.

Here is a list of the six best crypto exchanges supporting Singapore Dollar (SGD) deposits:

  1. Independent Reserve - Best Crypto Exchange in Singapore
  2. Coinhako - Most Popular Singaporean Exchange
  3. Gemini - Recommended for Institutional Investors
  4. Coinbase - ‍Feature-Rich Crypto Platform
  5. Crypto.com - Access DeFi & Web3 Products
  6. HashKey - Leading Derivatives Trading Platform

Top Crypto Trading Platforms in Singapore

Crypto exchanges in Singapore are regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), providing clarity and security for investors. Digital assets are not legal tender in Singapore, but the MAS allows residents to trade crypto safely through licensed platforms that accept deposits in Singapore Dollars (SGD). Here’s our selection of the most trusted exchanges for Singaporean traders.

Exchange
Cryptocurrencies
Trading Fees
SGD Deposit Methods
Key Features
Independent Reserve
30+
0.5% - 0.02%
PayNow, FAST, Local Bank Deposits
OTC Desk, Advanced Orders, Multilingual Interface
Coinhako
200+
0.6%
PayNow, FAST, Cards, GrabPay
Alternative Products, SOC 2, Custody Services
Gemini
70+
0.2%
FAST Transfers, Bank Wires
ActiveTrader®, Futures, Gemini Crypto Credit Card
Coinbase
210+
0.5%
PayNow, FAST, Debit Cards
Coinbase One, Singpass Integration, USDC Rewards
Crypto.com
400+
0.1%
FAST, Debit Cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay
Crypto.com Visa Card, Web3 Integration, Staking
HashKey
110+
0.2%
FAST Transfers, Bank Wires
Spot, Derivatives, Launchpool, Audited Security

1. Independent Reserve

Independent Reserve is the best crypto exchange in Singapore, serving over 400,000 users since launching in 2013. It accommodates all investment styles, offering advanced order types such as limit orders, automated dollar-cost averaging, and an API for algorithmic traders.

It holds a Major Payment Institution license from MAS, ensuring users benefit from strong regulatory protections and rigorous security measures. Its reputation for reliability attracts diverse investors, including retail traders, family offices, corporate institutions, and asset management firms.

High-volume clients benefit from an OTC desk, providing private, competitive execution and minimal slippage for trades between $50,000 and $50 million. Security is important for IR, reinforced by annual external audits, ISO 27001 certification, cold storage solutions, and 2FA.

  • Fees: Trading fees range from 0.5% down to 0.02%, with free SGD deposits.
  • Supported Assets: Over 30 cryptocurrencies.
  • Regulation & Licensing: Fully licensed by MAS (License No: PS20200517).
  • SGD Deposit Methods: PayNow, FAST, and local bank deposits.
Independent Reserve.

2. Coinhako

Coinhako is Singapore’s most popular crypto exchange, trusted by over 400,000 customers. It provides an easy gateway into crypto investing, suitable for beginners. Users benefit from the extensive asset selection, with over 200 cryptocurrencies and over 100 trading pairs available. 

Transactions are straightforward, supported by a clean, streamlined interface designed to remove complexity. Additionally, the platform offers institutional solutions, including custom custody services and high-volume trading capabilities tailored specifically for corporate clients.

Coinhako takes security seriously, reinforced by MAS regulation, SOC 2 certification, and industry-leading encryption. Instant deposits via PayNow or FAST bank transfers make trading crypto convenient. Its commitment to safety has made it a top choice for Singaporean traders.

  • Fees: Trading fees typically around 0.6% per transaction.
  • Supported Assets: Over 200 cryptocurrencies.
  • Regulation & Licensing: Fully licensed by MAS (License No: PS20200556).
  • SGD Deposit Methods: PayNow, FAST transfers, credit card, debit card, and GrabPay.
Coinhako.

3. Gemini

Gemini has firmly established itself as the crypto exchange of choice for institutional investors in Singapore. Founded in 2014 by cryptocurrency pioneers Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, it is designed specifically to cater to sophisticated investors seeking a highly secure trading environment.

Institutions have access to advanced trading capabilities through Gemini ActiveTrader®, which delivers live market analytics and customizable interfaces. It protects assets with advanced security protocols, including comprehensive SOC 1 Type 2 and SOC 2 Type 2 audits performed by Deloitte.

Licensed and regulated under MAS, Gemini adheres strictly to local compliance requirements, including capital reserves, cybersecurity, and stringent banking standards. Additionally, Gemini supports convenient SGD deposits via local bank transfers, further streamlining the onboarding process.

  • Fees: Trading fees begin at 0.2%, with reduced rates available through Gemini ActiveTrader.
  • Supported Assets: Over 70 cryptocurrencies.
  • Regulation & Licensing: Received In-Principle Approval (IPA) for a Major Payment Institution license from MAS.
  • SGD Deposit Methods: Bank transfers (FAST) and wire transfers.
Gemini.

4. Coinbase

Coinbase is Singapore's safest and most feature-rich crypto exchange, providing over 210 cryptocurrencies. Setting up an account and getting verified takes only a few minutes via seamless integration with Singapore's Singpass, enabling rapid and secure identity verification.

The platform offers advanced order types such as Market, Limit, Stop Limit, and Auction Mode. It provides a unique subscription service, Coinbase One, granting users zero trading fees on transactions up to S$10,000 per month and boosted USDC staking rewards of up to 4.5%.

It is the largest publicly listed crypto exchange globally, offering full financial transparency and advanced asset protection methods. Users in Singapore enjoy fast SGD deposits via PayNow, FAST bank transfers, and debit cards without fees, alongside seamless USD deposits through SWIFT.

  • Fees: Trading fees start at 0.5%.
  • Supported Assets: Over 210 cryptocurrencies.
  • Regulation & Licensing: Fully licensed by MAS.
  • SGD Deposit Methods: PayNow, FAST transfers, and debit cards.
Coinbase.

5. Crypto.com

Crypto.com is known for its extensive crypto offerings and Web3 integration, providing access to the exchange’s blockchain (Cronos) and native token (CRO), which gives users discounts on fees. Since its launch, it has grown into a trusted platform, now serving over 140 million users worldwide. 

It has a user-friendly interface and diverse crypto selection, with over 400 digital assets for trading and staking. The platform also offers innovative products, including crypto loans, staking, lending and borrowing, and Crypto.com’s popular Visa debit card, which offers attractive rewards.

Crypto.com maintains stringent security protocols, validated by globally recognized certifications including ISO 27701, ISO 22301, and PCI DSS. Offering advanced DeFi products alongside advanced trading capabilities, it remains a leading choice for Singaporean investors.

  • Fees: Trading fees start from 0.1%, with discounts for CRO holders.
  • Supported Assets: Over 400 cryptocurrencies.
  • Regulation & Licensing: Licensed by MAS and operating under Foris Dax Asia.
  • SGD Deposit Methods: FAST, debit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.
Crypto.com.

6. HashKey

HashKey is a top choice among professional traders in Singapore, supporting an extensive suite of products, including spot markets, futures contracts, and innovative offerings such as Launchpool, which enables early participation in emerging digital assets like altcoins and memecoins. 

Security at HashKey is exceptional, with 90% of customer assets securely held in cold storage featuring military-grade encryption, supported by leading global security firms. It also ensures full transparency by regularly undergoing independent audits conducted by major accounting firms. 

Comprehensive insurance coverage, including full hot wallet protection, further assures traders that their funds remain secure. Its high liquidity, competitive fee structure, and institutional-grade trading tools make HashKey ideal for experienced investors and high-frequency traders in Singapore.

  • Fees: Trading fees start from 0.2%.
  • Supported Assets: Over 110 cryptocurrencies.
  • Regulation & Licensing: Fully licensed by MAS.
  • SGD Deposit Methods: Bank transfers, FAST, and wire transfers.
HashKey.

Is Crypto Regulated in Singapore?

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) oversees the regulatory framework for cryptocurrencies, primarily through the Payment Services Act of 2019, which mandates that digital payment token (DPT) service providers obtain appropriate licenses and adhere to stringent anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CFT) standards.

In 2024, MAS expanded the PSA to include custodial services, cross-border money transfers, and the facilitation of DPT transactions between accounts and exchanges. These amendments require service providers to segregate customer assets, maintain trust accounts, and implement robust security controls to enhance financial stability and consumer protection.

To further safeguard retail investors, MAS introduced measures effective from June 2025. These include prohibitions on offering incentives for account sign-ups, restrictions on the use of credit or leverage for crypto purchases, and mandatory assessments of retail investors' risk awareness.

How is Crypto Taxed by IRAS?

Singapore provides a clear approach to cryptocurrency taxation, managed by the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS). While there's no capital gains tax, certain crypto-related earnings are taxable, based on the activity type and frequency:

  • Capital Gains: Individuals holding cryptocurrencies long-term for personal investment purposes pay no capital gains tax. Profits from casually holding and selling crypto are generally tax-exempt.
  • Income Tax: Taxable income derived from crypto activities like frequent trading, mining, or staking is taxed at the progressive personal income tax rates, which range from 0% to 24%.
  • Corporate Tax: Businesses earning profits from running exchanges, managing digital asset portfolios, or token issuance are subject to the standard corporate tax rate of 17%.
  • Goods and Services Tax (GST): Since January 2020, Singapore exempts digital payment tokens (cryptocurrencies used as payment methods) from GST.

Singapore’s clear taxation policy promotes transparency, reduces investor uncertainty, and encourages growth in the crypto and blockchain sectors while ensuring regulatory compliance and market stability.

Cryptocurrency Adoption in Singapore

Cryptocurrency adoption in Singapore continues to grow rapidly, reflecting the country's advanced financial infrastructure and supportive regulatory environment. By 2025, approximately 3.4 million Singaporeans, nearly 56% of the population, will engage with cryptocurrencies, demonstrating high penetration compared to global standards. 

The local cryptocurrency market is projected to generate revenues of around US$229.4 million, despite experiencing a slight 3.8% revenue decline in the same year. This adoption is driven by factors such as a vibrant blockchain startup ecosystem, increasing institutional interest, and growing acceptance among businesses and individuals.

Cryptocurrency Adoption in Singapore.

How to Buy Bitcoin in Singapore

Singaporean investors looking to buy Bitcoin should use exchanges regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) that support deposits in Singapore Dollars (SGD). Follow these simple steps to buy BTC in Singapore:

  1. Choose Exchange: Select a MAS-licensed crypto exchange supporting SGD deposits. Popular options include Coinbase, Coinhako, Crypto.com, and Independent Reserve.
  2. Open an Account: Sign up on your chosen platform and complete identity verification procedures. This usually involves providing official identification such as your NRIC or passport, alongside proof of address in Singapore.
  3. Deposit SGD: Fund your exchange account using approved methods like PayNow, FAST bank transfers, or debit/credit cards accepted by the platform.
  4. Buy Bitcoin: Head to the trading page, specify the amount of Bitcoin you'd like to purchase, carefully review current market prices, and finalize the transaction.

After purchasing Bitcoin, consider transferring your assets to a personal cryptocurrency wallet for better security. Hardware wallets or reputable software wallets are recommended to safeguard your investment.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right cryptocurrency exchange in Singapore hinges on your individual needs and investment style. 

While each platform discussed offers distinct benefits, from Independent Reserve’s reliability and Coinhako’s simplicity to Gemini’s institutional appeal, it's important you select one aligning closely with your investing style and security needs.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best crypto wallets for Singaporean investors?

Can foreigners buy cryptocurrencies on Singaporean crypto exchanges?

Do Singaporean crypto exchanges offer staking?

Is cryptocurrency insurance available on Singaporean exchanges?

Written by 

Jed Barker

Editor-in-Chief

Jed, a digital asset analyst since 2015, founded Datawallet to simplify crypto and decentralized finance. His background includes research roles in leading publications and a venture firm, reflecting his commitment to making complex financial concepts accessible.