Complete List of Banks in Singapore (2025). Singapore Banking system overview

If you’re looking for a list of banks in Singapore, you’ve found the definitive guide. As a premier global financial hub, Singapore offers an incredibly diverse and secure banking landscape designed to meet a wide variety of needs. Its reputation for economic stability and innovation means you can expect world-class services whether you’re opening a personal account or managing corporate finances.

Regulatory Oversight: The Role of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS)

At the core of Singapore’s financial system is the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), established in 1971. As the country’s central bank and primary financial regulator, MAS oversees all financial institutions, including banks, insurance companies, and capital market intermediaries.

MAS plays a vital role in maintaining the stability, integrity, and transparency of the financial system. Its strict regulatory framework not only protects consumers but also ensures Singapore remains an attractive destination for global investors and corporations.

Singapore’s Diverse Banking Landscape

Singapore’s banking system offers a variety of institutions, each tailored to specific customer needs. The MAS Financial Institutions Directory provides a detailed classification of banks operating in Singapore. Here’s an overview of the main categories:

Local Banks

These banks are incorporated in Singapore and provide a full range of financial services, including savings accounts, loans, and foreign exchange. The most prominent local banks are:

• DBS Bank
• Oversea-Chinese Banking Corporation (OCBC)
• United Overseas Bank (UOB)

Qualifying Full Banks (QFBs)

Foreign-incorporated banks with QFB licenses operate under certain restrictions, such as limits on the number of branches and ATMs. They still offer a wide array of services to individuals and businesses. Notable QFBs include:

• Citibank Singapore
• HSBC Bank (Singapore)
• Standard Chartered Bank

Full Banks

These foreign banks operate without the branch restrictions imposed on QFBs and provide comprehensive services similar to local banks. Examples include:

• ABN AMRO Bank
• CITIBANK NA

Wholesale Banks

Focused on serving large corporations and institutional investors, wholesale banks provide services like trade finance, corporate lending, and treasury management. Examples include:

• BNP Paribas
• Bank of China (Singapore Branch)

Merchant Banks

Merchant banks cater to businesses and High-Net-Worth Individuals (HNWIs) with specialized services, such as corporate finance and asset management. Examples are:

• Goldman Sachs (Singapore)
• J.P. Morgan Chase Bank

Finance Companies

Finance companies primarily serve individuals and small businesses, offering loans and consumer credit. Examples include:

• Hong Leong Finance Limited
• Malayan Banking Berhad (Maybank)

Representative Offices

These offices represent foreign banks and promote their parent institution’s services. While they do not conduct banking operations in Singapore, they play a crucial role in client relations.

Comprehensive List of Banks in Singapore

The following table provides a detailed breakdown of all 200+ banks operating in Singapore, categorized by their banking licenses: