TLDR
- Robinhood received in-principle approval from the Monetary Authority of Singapore on April 23.
- The approval allows Robinhood to offer securities trading and exchange-traded derivatives in Singapore.
- Robinhood must meet specific conditions before obtaining a full capital markets services licence.
- MAS retains the right to withdraw the approval if circumstances change.
- Robinhood operates in Singapore through Bitstamp Asia Pte. Ltd., which holds a Major Payment Institution licence.
Robinhood secured in-principle approval from the Monetary Authority of Singapore on April 23. The approval allows the company to move toward offering brokerage services in Singapore. The company confirmed the development in an official statement.
Robinhood Gains Regulatory Clearance in Singapore
The Monetary Authority of Singapore granted Robinhood in-principle approval to operate brokerage services. The approval permits securities trading and exchange-traded derivatives. It also covers custody services, product financing, and collective investment funds.
However, Robinhood must meet specific conditions before securing a full capital markets services licence. MAS retains the authority to withdraw the approval if conditions change. The regulator issued the approval under its existing financial services framework.
Robinhood announced the update through its leadership channels. Johann Kerbrat, general manager of Robinhood International and Crypto, confirmed the decision publicly. He wrote, “Singapore, here we come.” He added, “Robinhood has received in-principle approval from MAS to offer brokerage services.”
Singapore, here we come. Robinhood has received in-principle approval (IPA) from MAS to offer brokerage services. We’re excited to deepen our presence in SG, our APAC headquarters and empower more investors across the globe. 🇸🇬
— Johann Kerbrat (@JohannKerbrat) April 23, 2026
He also stated that the company plans to strengthen its presence in Singapore. He described Singapore as Robinhood’s Asia-Pacific headquarters. He said the company aims to empower more investors globally.
Expansion Builds on Existing Singapore Operations
Robinhood already operates in Singapore through Bitstamp Asia Pte. Ltd. The subsidiary holds a Major Payment Institution licence from MAS. This licence allows digital payment token services under Singapore regulations.
The new approval expands Robinhood’s regulated footprint in the city-state. It enables the company to prepare for securities and derivatives brokerage operations. The firm will proceed once it satisfies MAS licensing requirements.
Patrick Chan, Robinhood’s head of Asia, addressed the development in a statement. He said, “Singapore’s world-class regulatory environment, high rates of digital adoption, and growing population of retail investors make it the ideal hub for our mission.” He confirmed the company will deepen its operational base in the country.
Singapore serves as Robinhood’s regional headquarters for Asia-Pacific operations. The company has invested in building teams and infrastructure in the city. The latest approval supports its broader operational plans in the region.
Robinhood stated that MAS issued the approval after reviewing its application. The company did not disclose a timeline for receiving a full licence. MAS will grant the final licence once Robinhood meets all stipulated requirements.
