US neobroker Robinhood Markets Inc (NASDAQ:HOOD) has announced that in what it calls a milestone for its international expansion, the company has received in-principle approval (IPA) from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) to offer brokerage services.
We had reported back in late 2024 that Robinhood was developing plans to open an APAC office headquartered in Singapore, and acquire brokerage licenses in the region.
Patrick Chan, Head of Asia for Robinhood 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.We see enormous potential to democratize the financial markets for a new generation of investors in Singapore.”
The IPA paves the way for Robinhood to offer a comprehensive suite of brokerage services in Singapore, including trading of securities, exchange-traded derivatives, custody, product financing, and collective investment funds.
Singapore serves as Robinhood’s Asia-Pacific headquarters, supporting its broader goal of building the world’s leading financial ecosystem. Robinhood’s presence in the region is further strengthened by its subsidiary, Bitstamp Asia Pte. Ltd., which holds a Major Payment Institution (MPI) license from the MAS.
By establishing a local footprint, Robinhood said it aims to provide investors in Singapore with the tools and access they need to participate in the global economy, furthering its mission to democratize finance for all.
Robinhood stated that an in-principle approval (IPA) reflects MAS’ view that a license may be issued to the applicant, Robinhood Singapore Pte. Ltd. (“RHSG”), upon the fulfilment of specified conditions and provided there are no material adverse developments affecting the applicant. An IPA does not constitute a license for RHSG to provide brokerage services at this juncture. MAS reserves the right to rescind the IPA in circumstances where it considers appropriate.
About Robinhood
Robinhood transformed financial services by introducing commission-free stock trading and democratizing access to the markets for millions of investors. Headquartered in Menlo Park, California, Robinhood puts customers in the driver’s seat, delivering unprecedented value and products intentionally designed for a new generation of investors.












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