Forum: As wealth management expands, investor safeguards should too
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As wealth management reaches a broader segment of Singaporeans, investor protection must keep pace (DBS targets $1 trillion in wealth assets by 2030, banks on AI and 600 new hires, July 15).
The expansion of wealth management beyond traditional private banking raises an important policy question: Does the accredited investor regime remain fit for purpose when more mass-affluent customers are opting in?
Many may not fully appreciate the regulatory protections they relinquish, including access to the Financial Industry Disputes Resolution Centre for larger investment disputes.
This places an even greater premium on clear and timely disclosure. Material risks should be explained prominently before an investment decision is made, not buried in lengthy legal documents.
If Singapore is to strengthen its position as a leading wealth management centre, growth must be matched by robust investor safeguards. The Monetary Authority of Singapore should review whether the accredited investor framework and disclosure requirements remain appropriate for a market where sophisticated investment products are increasingly offered to mass-affluent customers.
Jacqueline Woo Mei Lin
