Looking for the best crypto exchange Singaporeans can use? Look no further! Since Singapore has emerged as a popular destination for cryptocurrency trading, there are numerous exchanges available for investors to choose from.
To make things easier, though, I've narrowed down the top crypto exchanges in Singapore, such as Kraken or Coinbase, among others. The selected exchanges provide a huge variety of digital assets and features, competitive fees, and high liquidity, as well as prioritize user security and regulatory compliance.
Speaking of regulatory compliance, before looking into each crypto exchange in more detail, I'll also go over the crypto regulations in Singapore and the main points that make an exchange worth being considered one of the best crypto exchanges in Singapore.
Though, if you want to go straight to the point, here's the list of the platforms that will be discussed in this article:
I'm sure that once you go over this list, you'll find the perfect crypto exchange for you. So, without further ado, let's get started!
What Are Singapore Crypto Regulations?
To understand what it takes for an exchange to be named one of the best crypto exchanges Singaporeans can use, it is important to first review the local laws governing cryptocurrencies.
Overall, Singapore is a popular destination for cryptocurrency traders due to its crypto-friendly regulations and progressive outlook on digital assets.
The country has taken steps to encourage the growth of the industry, such as introducing a regulatory sandbox for fintech companies and exempting certain cryptocurrencies from the Goods and Services Tax.
As a result, many top cryptocurrency exchanges have established a presence in Singapore, making it a hub for crypto trading in Southeast Asia.
Crypto exchange services in Singapore are not only legal but also regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS)[1]. MAS is the central bank and financial regulator in Singapore, and it sets the guidelines for cryptocurrency exchanges to operate in a compliant and safe manner.
To comply with MAS guidelines, crypto exchanges in Singapore must employ Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) procedures. These measures ensure that all investors are properly identified and verified, and that their transactions are monitored to prevent illicit activities[2].
This crypto exchange regulation in Singapore makes the country an attractive destination for crypto investors looking for a secure and regulated environment to buy and trade digital assets.
MAS also requires every platform to provide a risk warning to its customers. Do note, though, that instead of crypto exchanges, Singaporeans refer to these platforms as digital payment token (DPT) service providers.
Comparing other crypto exchange environments to Singapore's, you'll surely notice some differences. One of those is that cryptocurrencies are classified as property and can be legally purchased from crypto exchanges, ATMs, and even some institutions in Singapore.
Besides, keep in mind that cryptocurrency trading is subject to taxes in Singapore. Gains made that way, due to the Singapore crypto regulation, are considered taxable income and must be reported on tax returns.
1. Kraken - Great for Both Beginners and Professionals
Ranks #1 out of 7 Crypto Exchanges
- + Secure and reliable
- + Low fees
- + A good amount of fiat currencies accepted
- - Not the most helpful customer service
Fees: In spot trading, maker fees start at 0.25%, while taker fees start at 0.4%.
Minimum Deposit or Purchase: $10.
Kraken is among the best crypto exchanges in Singapore, offering rigorous security measures, low fees, and multiple features that make it stand out. With over 200 cryptocurrencies available, traders can build their crypto portfolios with ease.
Speaking of features, with the exception of futures trading and opt-in staking, all other features on Kraken are available in Singapore. For example, the platform allows Singaporean traders to participate in on-chain staking. The annual stake interest goes up to 28%, making it a lucrative option for those who want to earn passive income.
Moreover, Kraken even allows experienced Singaporean traders to explore margin trading with up to 5x leverage. Margin trading increases your exposure to market volatility, which makes your trading techniques even more flexible. In total, Kraken provides more than 100 markets with margin-enabled buying and selling options.
When it comes to security, the platform has been working hard to establish itself as a leader in providing secure trading services. In fact, it is one of the safest crypto exchanges Singaporeans can use, as it abides promptly by all Singapore crypto regulations.
With 2FA, cold storage, API controls, surveillance, and SSL encryption, as of May 2024, the exchange has never experienced a large-scale hack since it was established in 2011. On top of that, Kraken's commitment to transparency is evident from the get-go. The website is packed with information about its security measures, products, and fees.
In terms of fees, the platform's rates are reasonable, and it's good to know that there are no deposit fees regarding USD. However, withdrawal fees may vary depending on the cryptocurrency in question.
As for trading fees, spot trading follows the maker-taker fee structure. Maker fees go from 0.25% to as low as 0%, while taker fees go from 0.4% to 0.1% (they change based on your 30-day trade volume). Margin trading fees, on the other hand, go from 0.01% to 0.02% for opening a position, plus you have to pay a 0.02% rollover fee every 4 hours.
Now, Kraken does have one drawback when it comes to Singapore-based users. As of writing, it does not support SGD. However, it does support other fiat currencies (like USD), which you can use to purchase crypto, no matter where you reside.
Besides, it's worth noting that Kraken has two mobile applications that are available on iOS and Android devices. One is the basic version of Kraken, while the other is the advanced one - Kraken Pro (both these versions are available on the web-based platform as well).
In conclusion, Kraken is among the best exchanges for crypto in Singapore, thanks to its excellent security measures, diverse range of cryptocurrencies, reasonable fees, and advanced trading features. It's no wonder Kraken has been around for so long and continues to be a popular choice for traders all over the world.
2. Coinbase - Enhanced Security for Your Crypto Assets
Ranks #2 out of 7 Crypto Exchanges
- + Fiat currencies - accepted
- + Simple to use
- + Accepts only the most trustworthy cryptocurrencies
- + Very secure
- - Some of the less-known coins aren't supported
Fees: In spot trading, maker fees start at 0.4%, while taker fees start at 0.6%.
Minimum Deposit or Purchase: Vary depending on the asset in question.
If you are looking for a reliable and user-friendly platform, Coinbase is one of the best Singaporean crypto exchanges. This crypto exchange puts a strong emphasis on security, education, and accessibility.
Even though it is a US-based crypto exchange, Coinbase has opened various country-based entities, one of which is Coinbase Singapore. The Monetary Authority of Singapore has granted it in-principle approval to function as a major payment institution offering digital payment services in Singapore.
Security is a top priority when it comes to crypto exchanges, and Coinbase doesn't disappoint in this regard. The platform uses two-factor authentication to keep your account safe, and the majority of users' crypto assets are stored offline to protect against potential hacks or breaches. Plus, Coinbase has an insurance policy in place to safeguard your funds.
When it comes to SGD support, Coinbase not only allows users to purchase crypto using SGD with a credit / debit card but also allows them to deposit (and withdraw) it into (and from) their accounts using bank transfers.
Speaking of features, apart from simply trading crypto, the platform offers the Coinbase Earn program, which allows you to earn through staking and yield farming. Besides, there's also the Learn and Earn program, which offers the possibility of earning while learning about the crypto world.
Also, if you're into NFTs, then you gotta check out Coinbase NFT. It's a huge community where you can find, create, and buy NFTs.
Now, speaking of supported cryptocurrencies, Coinbase allows users to access over 240 crypto assets, including popular ones like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Cardano.
Lastly, note that Coinbase fees are calculated at the time of order placement and are determined by several factors, including payment method, order size, and market conditions. However, its fees are known to be on the more expensive side of the barricade.
All in all, Coinbase is a user-friendly and secure crypto exchange that is a great option for traders in Singapore (and many other countries), no matter if you're a seasoned trader or a newbie.
3. Uphold - A Trusted, Regulated Exchange
Ranks #3 out of 7 Crypto Exchanges
- + Fully reserved and transparent
- + Multiple tradable asset classes
- + Early new token support
- + Over 265 supported cryptos
- + Multiple additional features (wallet, card, etc.)
- - No live customer support
- - May have a steeper learning curve
Fees: 0.25% - 2.95% (somewhat unclear for Asian markets - depends on the asset class and cryptocurrency type)
Minimum Deposit or Purchase: $10.
Uphold is a well-known cryptocurrency exchange in the space. Referring to it as just a “crypto exchange” doesn’t really do it justice, though - the platform supports traditional finance tools, as well, including stocks and equities.
One of the strongest features of Uphold is its security. The exchange utilizes cold storage for user funds. Meaning, if you keep your cryptocurrencies on Uphold, they’ll be stored in designated, enterprise-level hardware wallets. This, in itself, provides a lot of assurance for anyone who’s looking into the safest exchanges.
On top of that, 100% of user funds are reserved. Not a lot of exchanges can say that they reserve the entirety of their user funds! Uphold also claims to never lend out user assets - something that’s become a rather controversial topic in recent times, as far as crypto exchanges go.
As a licensed and regulated exchange, Uphold supports nearly 300 different crypto coins & tokens. While that’s not the largest number out there, you will still be able to find all of the biggest cryptos available on the exchange.
While staking is also a major highlight on the exchange, with APYs reaching an awesome 14%, it’s worth pointing out that this feature isn’t available in Singapore.
That being said, with features like recurring transactions for easier DCA and three whole wallets to choose from (custodial, Vault, and UpHODL), even with some limitations, you should still be able to utilize a lot of great aspects of the exchange in question.
As a cherry on top, Uphold can be accessed via the web interface, or a designated mobile app. The app is well designed and made with active traders in mind - meaning, no matter where you are, you will always be able to access your funds and perform transactions easily.
To sum up, if you’re on the lookout for the best crypto exchange in Singapore, Uphold should definitely be on your list of the top options!
Did you know?
Compare Crypto Exchanges Side by Side With Others
All Crypto Exchanges may look similar to you but they're NOT all the same!
4. Coinmama – Buy and Sell Crypto With Ease
Ranks #4 out of 7 Crypto Exchanges
- + High levels of security
- + Helpful customer support
- + User-friendly platform
- + Available in 188 countries, and most US states
- + Accepts credit/debit cards
- - No way to call the support via phone
- - Limited amount of cryptocurrencies
Fees: When buying crypto, fees depend on the payment method and range from 1.5% to 4.19%.
Minimum Deposit or Purchase: From $5 to $20, depending on the payment method.
Launched in 2013, Coinmama has managed to establish itself as a trusted platform, catering to over 2,300,000 people across 180 countries, including Singapore. Coinmama offers a reliable platform for purchasing a variety of digital currencies using fiat money, including SGD, which makes it one of the best crypto exchanges in Singapore.
Among the pioneers of the cryptocurrency market, Coinmama was one of the first exchanges to offer Bitcoin purchases through credit and debit cards.
The platform continues to offer many alternatives for purchasing crypto, including Faster Payments, Fedwire, Sofort, SEPA, SWIFT, and Apple Pay. It is suitable for both beginners and advanced traders, and it provides high spending limits and immediate delivery of cryptos to user wallets upon payment.
Compared to other crypto exchanges in Singapore, one of its standout features is the Loyalty Program (also known as Affiliate Program). It gives a significant advantage for users of the platform, with rebates of up to 25% on all fees.
However, it is important to note that Coinmama does charge considerably high fees. It charges service and network fees, as well as payment processing fees, which depend on the payment method and range from 1.5% to 4.19%. A fee for credit and debit card purchases, for example, ranges around 3.24-3.34%.
Security-wise, Coinmama is committed to ensuring fund safety and employs two-factor authentication (2FA). Additionally, Coinmama does comply with Singapore's crypto exchange regulations.
If they face any issues, users can access customer support through email, phone, chat, and social media, with support available in several languages. However, there’s no support for Malay, Tamil, or Singaporean Mandarin, which can be a bummer for some customers.
However, there is one important thing to note - Coinmama doesn’t offer any advanced trading tools for Bitcoin and other cryptos. Thus, you can only buy, sell, and swap crypto on this exchange. It does plan to introduce trading and earning features, as well as a crypto wallet in the near future, though.
Besides that, the amount of supported cryptocurrencies might be relatively small (although they plan to expand this in the future, too). However, the most popular cryptocurrencies are available, including Bitcoin, ADA, EOS, Ethereum, Tezos, and so on.
All in all, Coinmama offers a reliable and secure platform for new investors looking for an easy-to-use crypto exchange available in Singapore for buying crypto using fiat.
5. Changelly - Multiple Features to Choose From
Ranks #5 out of 7 Crypto Exchanges
- + Flat cryptocurrency exchange fee of 0,5%
- + No history of security breaches
- + Offers widgets and API
- + 24/7 live customer support
- - Can be slow
- - Quite high fees when changing fiat currencies
Fees: The fee for buying crypto starts at 4% but might go up depending on several factors.
Minimum Deposit or Purchase: Ranges from $5 to $50, depending on the payment provider.
Changelly is a non-custodial exchange that allows users to trade in several digital currencies, a feature much searched if you’re after the best crypto exchange in Singapore. The website advertises an easy-to-use service with competitive transaction fees.
Founded in 2015, Changelly has over 2 million active customers and offers a one-stop-shop experience for purchasing, selling, swapping, and trading cryptocurrencies. Besides, the site is also available as a widget through its API.
One of the most popular features of the platforms is Changelly Earn. With it, users can access a wide range of tools to enable new functionalities for their business and promote monetization. Besides, it's worth noting that Changelly shares up to 50% of revenue from crypto-to-crypto and fiat-to-crypto transactions.
Now, it also offers a platform for advanced users called Changelly PRO. It provides them with access to a full-featured exchange platform with a multi-currency wallet for storing coins, more than 50 markets with competitive trading fees, an intuitive trading terminal, and much more.
Do note that Changelly is also available as a mobile app on both the Apple iOS store and the Google Play store. The app offers the same competitive market rates and features over 160 cryptocurrencies.
However, there are some negative aspects to keep in mind. For instance, purchasing crypto with fiat through Changelly may be expensive, with the rate starting at 4%.
Crypto exchange fees are a bit different, as you can choose between the floating and the fixed rate. With the former, the fee is charged during the transaction process; it includes the network fee and the service fee of 0.25%. With the fixed fee, however, you pay a dynamic fee that you see before the transaction; it secures you from market volatility.
Lastly, it's worth noting that Changelly doesn't have a built-in wallet for your digital assets, which means you must have a separate wallet (only the Changelly PRO version does). Some of the best crypto wallets that can be connected to Changelly include Ledger Nano X and Zengo.
Overall, Changelly is a great option for those looking for an easy-to-use crypto exchange Singaporeans can access.
6. Crypto.com - Free Deposits and Withdrawals for SGD Transfers
Ranks #6 out of 7 Crypto Exchanges
- + Beginner-friendly
- + Secure
- + Decent trading and withdrawal fees
- + Credit / debit card purchases - available
- - Long KYC verification times
- - Small number of available cryptos
- - Can only exchange cryptocurrencies on mobile
Fees: In spot trading, the fees start at 0.075% for both makers and takers.
Minimum Deposit or Purchase: Varies depending on the asset and the payment method.
You've probably stumbled upon Crypto.com when searching for “best crypto exchange Singapore,” or something along these lines. This is because it has over 80 million users, is a trusted leader with regulatory compliance worldwide, and offers industry-leading custodial insurance.
In addition to that, one of the things that set Crypto.com apart from other platforms is the wide range of assets it offers for Singaporean customers - over 250 cryptocurrencies available for buying, selling, and trading.
Besides, for those looking to earn yields, Crypto.com's Crypto Earn program is also available in Singapore. With 21+ cryptocurrencies and stablecoins to choose from, users can earn yields while maintaining the security and trustworthiness that Crypto.com is known for.
Crypto.com also offers some unique features that few other cryptocurrency exchanges can match. For example, users can trade options and futures contracts, earn interest by staking their coins, and make trades with up to 10x leverage when they feel particularly confident in a coin.
For those who hold Crypto.com's native crypto asset, CRO, the exchange offers discounts on maker and taker fees.
If security is a top priority for you, you might appreciate this platform's use of multi-factor authentication (MFA) and custodial bank accounts to store users' funds.
In addition, the platform has implemented appropriate data protection measures for their personal data, in accordance with Singapore’s Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA). Consequently, Crypto.com abides by Singapore's crypto regulations.
But what about fees? Well, the exchange offers a flat trading fee of 0.075%, with free deposits and withdrawals for SGD transfers. While its fees might be on the pricier end compared to some other crypto exchanges, in August 2022, it did reduce spot trading fees by 80% (down to the current 0.075%). Besides, don't forget that CRO holders can get a discount, and there's also a VIP program that turns maker fees to zero.
Overall, Crypto.com provides a great user experience, from depositing fiat to buying and spending crypto. This is why it cannot be overlooked when trying to find the best crypto exchange in Singapore for all your trading needs!
7. Bitstamp - No Fees While Trading Up To 1350 SGD
Ranks #7 out of 7 Crypto Exchanges
- + Helpful customer support
- + Fiat payments are accepted
- + Reliable and established
- + Low trading fees
- - Small number of supported cryptos
Fees: In spot trading, the fees start at 0.3% for makers and 0.4% for takers.
Minimum Deposit or Purchase: 25 USD/EUR/GBP when buying crypto with a card.
Bitstamp is one of the most popular crypto exchanges worldwide. Not only is it easy to use, but it also offers a host of features. Thus, it can also be considered one of the best crypto exchanges in Singapore. Now, let's take a look at what Bitstamp has to offer.
Firstly, Bitstamp has an app that can be downloaded from the Google Play and Apple App Store. So, traders in Singapore can access Bitstamp from their mobile devices, making trading available at their fingertips!
Moreover, Bitstamp offers an API tool that allows users to integrate custom software. So, for example, you can integrate a trading bot to automate your trading strategies and execute trades more efficiently. It makes it so much easier to efficiently buy and sell over 80 popular cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and many others!
Another crucial advantage of Bitstamp is its long history of supporting cryptocurrency users. As one of the oldest exchanges in the industry, Bitstamp has over a decade of experience providing a secure and reliable platform for traders. This experience has helped Bitstamp build a strong reputation as one of the most trusted exchanges in the industry.
And, when it comes to security, Bitstamp takes the protection of its users' funds to the next level! The platform uses strong security practices and stores the bulk of client funds offline in cold storage. Bitstamp also operates in accordance with Singapore crypto regulations.
In fact, in March 2024, Bitstamp received the In-Principle Approval (IPA) in Singapore, which is a step toward obtaining the Major Payment Institution license.
On top of that, when you sign up for a new account, Bitstamp allows you to set up multi-factor authentication for added security. This layer of protection helps keep your account safe from hackers and other threats.
Lastly, when it comes to Bitstamp trading fees, note that they are based on the maker-taker model that changes in accordance with your 30-day trading volume and can go from 0.4% to as low as 0%. Though, if you trade up to $1000 (around 1350 SGD), there is no fee at all.
All in all, with a user-friendly platform, competitive fees, and strong security measures, Bitstamp surely is one of the best crypto exchanges Singapore residents can use.
Best Crypto Exchange in Singapore: Evaluation Criteria
If you didn't find the one in this best crypto exchanges in Singapore list, you might go and search for one yourself. But how to know whether an exchange is the best crypto exchange Singaporeans can access? Well, here are some criteria that should be considered:
✓ SGD Support. Singapore dollar (SGD) support is a significant advantage when choosing an exchange to use in Singapore. While it is not necessarily a must, SGD compatibility can greatly benefit your trading experience. After all, most prominent exchanges allow users to buy crypto using fiat. So, if you're a Singaporean, it's only natural that you'll want to use SGD to do that.
✓ Regulatory Compliance. As discussed before, there are serious regulations and guidelines crypto exchanges in Singapore must abide by. Thus, compliance with MAS regulations is a decisive factor when searching for the best cryptocurrency exchange in Singapore. You do want to have a secure and smooth crypto trading experience, don't you?
✓ Supported features. The services and features offered by a crypto exchange are obviously one of the main points you should consider, too, especially if you're looking for a more niche feature, which is not spot trading.
However, some crypto exchanges might not offer the same services for different countries. Imagine finding a feature that is a make-or-break for your trading experience, just to find that it is not supported in your region. To prevent that, all features that were discussed in this article are available in Singapore, unless mentioned otherwise.
✓ Supported cryptocurrencies. Apart from feature support, you should also look into crypto asset support before choosing an exchange. While most exchanges support popular crypto assets like Bitcoin, Ethereum or Litecoin, not all exchanges support the less-known ones.
Thus, always check if you'll be able to trade the crypto you desire on the exchange in question. Though, generally speaking, note that the greater number of cryptocurrencies an exchange supports, the better option it is.
Keeping all that in mind, you should find the best crypto exchange in Singapore for you with ease.
Conclusions
To wrap all of this up, if you're looking for the best crypto exchange in Singapore, you've got a lot of great options to choose from, including Kraken and Coinbase. These platforms, as well as the others listed above, offer a wide variety of cryptocurrencies, useful features, and compliance with Singapore crypto regulations.
Of course, as the world of cryptocurrencies is constantly evolving, it's essential to stay up to date with the latest regulations and changes. So, be sure to check out the latest crypto news, as well as the most recent list of entities that operate under the Payment Services Act issued by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
Additionally, once you choose a suitable crypto exchange, you should also consider getting a secure crypto wallet. I suggest getting a hardware wallet, which will keep your funds safe from hackers. The top choices on the market include the Ledger Nano X and Ledger Nano S Plus.
Now that you have all this info, trading in Singapore will be a piece of cake!
Other Crypto Exchanges in This Category
Here are other crypto exchanges related to the category but not as favored by BitDegree readers yet. In my personal opinion, today there are much more optimal crypto exchanges in the list with the higher rating that I'd recommend for the same price range or less.
KuCoin - Reduce Fees With KuCoin Shares (KSC)
- + Strong security measures
- + Over 700 supported cryptocurrencies
- + A variety of trading and earning features
- + Competitive fees
- - Not available for US traders
- - Might be somewhat complicated for beginners
Disclaimer: KuCoin is no longer available for Singaporean traders.
In the past, KuCoin could be found on many "best crypto exchange in Singapore" lists, as it offers an array of trading services with nominal fees. The platform quickly became a well-known crypto exchange globally, with a community of over 10 million users in 200+ countries.
Traders have access to a diverse range of features and tools that can be utilized through both KuCoin's web-based exchange and a mobile app (accessible on Android and iOS). Whether you're interested in spot trading, margin trading, peer-to-peer trading, or derivatives trading, KuCoin has got you covered!
For those looking for a platform with a wide range of cryptocurrencies, KuCoin might be the one. It supports over 700 crypto assets, including popular ones like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Cardano, Tether, and XRP. Besides that, it also supports various fiat currencies, including SGD. So, if you want to buy crypto using SGD, you'll be able to do that on KuCoin (you won't be able to do that if you're a Singaporean resident, though).
Furthermore, by lending or staking your cryptocurrencies on KuCoin, you can earn passive income. Also, if you have KuCoin Shares (KCS), the exchange's native token, you'll enjoy significant discounts on trading fees and earn even more rewards. The more KCS tokens you have, the more money you'll save on fees!
Speaking of fees, there is a maker-taker-based fee structure for spot trading on KuCoin. Maker fees go from 0.1% to -0.005% (yes, it's a negative fee, which basically is a discount), while taker fees go from 0.1% to 0.025%. Just don't forget that you can get 20% off all spot trading fees when paying with KCS.
Futures trading fees are also based on the maker-taker model. However, you do not get a discount if covering them with KCS. Maker fees go from 0.02% to -0.015%, while taker fees go from 0.06% to 0.03%.
Now, when it comes to security, KuCoin takes extensive measures to ensure the safety of its users' assets. It features multilayer encryption, multi-factor authentication, and micro-withdrawal wallets. The company also has specialized risk departments dedicated to overseeing data operations and security.
Besides, if you want extra security when it comes to your digital assets, KuCoin's non-custodial option might be of interest to you. It allows users to connect a third-party crypto wallet for storing their crypto assets instead of storing them on a built-in KuCoin wallet.
In addition to the commitment to accessibility, security, and a diverse range of features, KuCoin also abided by Singapore crypto regulations, but it was probably not enough, as the platform is no longer accessible in this country.
Either way, for all the aforementioned reasons, it was one of the top contenders for the title of the best crypto exchange in Singapore (and beyond, where it still remains at the top).
The content published on this website is not aimed to give any kind of financial, investment, trading, or any other form of advice. BitDegree.org does not endorse or suggest you to buy, sell or hold any kind of cryptocurrency. Before making financial investment decisions, do consult your financial advisor.
Scientific References
1. C.L. Koh, N. Chan: 'Singapore's Fintech and Crypto Regulations';
2. S. Sater: 'Do We Need KYC/AML: The Bank Secrecy Act and Virtual Currency Exchanges'.