The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has introduced a regulatory structure for single-currency stablecoins tied to the Singapore Dollar or any G10 fiat currency. Under this arrangement, tokens with a circulating value surpassing S$5 million will be classified as MAS-regulated stablecoins. Even though only one stablecoin currently operates in Singapore, this regulation supports the country’s aim to stimulate digital asset innovation while maintaining stability.
MAS holds the perspective that stablecoins if regulated appropriately for value stability, can pave the way for pioneering concepts like on-chain digital asset exchanges.
Singapore’s stance on cryptocurrency
Given the expected growth of the global stablecoin market from $125 billion to a staggering $2.8 trillion in the upcoming five years, countries like Singapore and the US are proactively crafting regulations.
The directives set by MAS for stablecoin providers encompass ensuring value consistency, having sufficient reserves for redemptions, and transparently showcasing audit outcomes. These issuers are mandated to keep liquid assets equivalent to the entire supply of the stablecoin and allocate either over S$1 million or at least 50% of their yearly operating costs.
Singapore’s forward-thinking crypto regulation framework distinguishes it within the Asian crypto ecosystem, drawing both investors and enterprises. According to a survey by Gemini and CoinMarketCap, about two-thirds of Singaporeans possess cryptocurrencies, with a notable portion of the younger generation deeply invested in them.
While there may be concerns over potential regulations, MAS’s stance is relatively liberal, as it continues to assess the cryptocurrency sector. Babel Asia, a crypto-oriented firm, aims to capitalize on Singapore’s growing crypto adoption, complying with rules and benefiting from the country’s strong legal and financial services sectors.
Yet, due to the rise in fraudulent crypto activities affecting the local population, MAS urges investors to remain cautious and reiterates its commitment to preventing cryptocurrency-related fraud.
To sum up, Singapore’s combination of a liberal view on crypto, rigorous regulations, and financial trustworthiness positions it as a favorable destination for crypto entrepreneurs and aficionados.