Best Funds & Asset Management Lawyers in Singapore

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City Hall, Singapore

Founded in 2018
5 people in their team
English
Avant Law LLC is a Singapore-based boutique law firm focused on corporate law and cross-border legal solutions for businesses. The firm was founded in 2018 by partners who previously held positions at Singapore's leading firms and who are dual-qualified in Singapore and Malaysia, enabling seamless...
Harry Elias Partnership LLP
City Hall, Singapore

Founded in 1988
67 people in their team
English
Harry Elias Partnership LLP is a Singapore-based full-service law firm founded in 1988 with deep experience in commercial litigation and transactional work. The firm represents local, regional and international clients in complex disputes, regulatory matters and cross-border commercial transactions...
PDLegal LLC Advocates & Solicitors
City Hall, Singapore

Founded in 2017
24 people in their team
English
Chinese
Tamil
Malay
Hindi
PDLegal LLC offers a sophisticated legal practice characterised by exceptional legal services, delivered cost effectively. With industry recognised expertise, we deliver advocacy and advisory services to our clientele, based both in Singapore and overseas, on a wide spectrum of matters. By forging...
Chia Wong Chambers LLC
City Hall, Singapore

Founded in 2019
English
Chia Wong Chambers LLC is a Singapore based law firm focusing on litigation and dispute resolution. With a boutique practice and a strong litigation foundation, the firm emphasizes an aggressive and effective approach to resolving disputes and handling complex commercial matters. The firm has...
City Hall, Singapore

Founded in 2007
English
SMU Yong Pung How School of Law in Singapore stands at the forefront of legal education and research, offering a rigorous and innovative curriculum designed to cultivate legal professionals with a strong sense of ethics and leadership. The institution is distinguished by its interdisciplinary...
JT Legal LLC
Marina, Singapore

Founded in 2017
3 people in their team
English
Chinese
We are a boutique corporate & corporate finance law firm specialising in mergers and acquisitions, reverse takeovers, IPOs, sale and purchase of company and company assets, joint-ventures, convertible note and bond issues, security arrangements, major asset acquisitions and disposals, employee...
KGP LEGAL LLC
Tanjong Pagar, Singapore

Founded in 2018
10 people in their team
English
Founded in 2018, KGP Legal LLC is a Singapore-licensed corporate and commercial international law that provides seamless assistance to clients in Singapore, Hong Kong, China and Japan. It is a member firm of the InterAsia Law Alliance, a network of independent liaison law firms in the...
LYTAG LAW LLP
City Hall, Singapore

Founded in 1971
English
LYTAG LAW LLP is a Singapore based law firm with a long history of legal practice formed through a series of amalgamations. The firm traces its roots to 1971 as Low Yeap Toh & Goon LLP and later rebranded to LYTAG LAW LLP following changes in management in 2022. It maintains a tangible presence in...
Actus Legal LLP
Chinatown, Singapore

Founded in 2018
2 people in their team
English
Competent Compassionate Community Counsel who can provide good legal services at affordable rates!Actus Legal LLP (UEN T18LL1456F) is a limited liability law partnership, registered in Singapore under the Limited Liability Partnerships Act (Chapter 163A). We are a new firm that has started in...
City Hall, Singapore

Founded in 1987
150 people in their team
English
Adsan Law is a Singapore-based law corporation offering a broad range of commercial and private client legal services with particular strength in banking and finance, intellectual property, litigation and cross-border matters. The firm combines sector-specific legal knowledge with a...
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About Funds & Asset Management Law in Singapore

Funds and asset management is a rapidly growing sector in Singapore, supported by a robust legal and regulatory framework. Singapore is recognized as a leading global hub for investment funds, wealth management, and alternative investments. The city-state's strategic location, political stability, and sound legal system make it an attractive destination for fund managers, investors, and financial institutions around the world. Legal standards in Singapore oversee the establishment, regulation, and management of all kinds of investment vehicles, ensuring investor protection and market integrity.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal advice is essential in the funds and asset management sector, given its complexity and regulatory requirements. You may need a lawyer if you are:

  • Setting up an investment fund or collective investment scheme in Singapore
  • Navigating licensing and registration requirements with the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS)
  • Structuring complex investment products or alternative investment vehicles
  • Complying with ongoing regulatory duties, including anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT)
  • Drafting or reviewing fund documentation, agreements, and offering documents
  • Handling disputes between investors, fund managers, or custodians
  • Restructuring or winding up funds or asset management entities
  • Participating as a foreign fund manager looking to enter the Singapore market
  • Responding to regulatory investigations, audits, or enforcement actions

A lawyer can guide you through these processes and help you avoid costly mistakes or penalties.

Local Laws Overview

Singapore's funds and asset management sector is mainly regulated by the Securities and Futures Act (SFA) and its subsidiary legislation. The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) is the primary regulator overseeing licensing, conduct, and compliance matters for fund managers and investment advisors. Key aspects of local laws and regulations include:

  • Licensing Regimes: Fund managers, real estate investment trusts (REITs), and other market participants may need to apply for licensing under the SFA, or be registered as Registered Fund Management Companies (RFMCs) or Licensed Fund Management Companies (LFMCs).
  • Collective Investment Schemes (CIS): Rules govern the formation, operation, and marketing of both public and private investment funds in Singapore.
  • Code on Collective Investment Schemes: Sets requirements for prospectuses, disclosures, and risk management for collective investment schemes offered to the public.
  • Ongoing Compliance: Fund managers are subject to continuous obligations, including capital adequacy, risk management, compliance frameworks, and reporting duties.
  • AML/CFT Requirements: Strict anti-money laundering and anti-terrorism financing laws apply, with mandatory client due diligence and reporting obligations.
  • Taxation: Fund management activities are subject to specific tax incentives and regimes, such as the Enhanced Tier Fund Scheme and the Singapore Resident Fund Scheme.
  • Investor Protection: Laws prioritize the protection of investors, with disclosure, transparency, and fair dealing mandated for all market participants.

Non-compliance with these rules can result in severe penalties, including fines, suspensions, or criminal prosecution.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of funds are commonly set up in Singapore?

Common fund types include unit trusts, open-ended and closed-ended funds, hedge funds, private equity funds, real estate investment trusts (REITs), and variable capital companies (VCCs).

What licenses are required for fund managers in Singapore?

Fund managers must typically hold either a Capital Markets Services (CMS) license or be registered as a Registered Fund Management Company (RFMC) with MAS, depending on the size and activities of the business.

Who regulates the funds and asset management sector in Singapore?

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) is the main regulatory body governing this sector.

What is a Variable Capital Company (VCC) and why is it significant?

A Variable Capital Company (VCC) is a flexible corporate structure for funds that allows greater operational efficiency, flexibility in share issuance, and ease of fund consolidation, making Singapore more attractive for fund domiciliation.

Are there tax incentives for funds set up in Singapore?

Yes, Singapore offers various tax incentive schemes, such as the Enhanced Tier Fund Scheme and the Singapore Resident Fund Scheme, which provide tax exemptions for qualifying funds.

What are the disclosure requirements for public funds?

Public funds must comply with detailed disclosure requirements set out in the Code on Collective Investment Schemes, including prospectus registration, risk warnings, and regular reporting to investors and MAS.

What ongoing compliance requirements do fund managers face?

Fund managers must comply with regulations on AML/CFT, risk management, client due diligence, regular reporting, and maintaining adequate financial and operational resources.

Can foreign fund managers operate in Singapore?

Yes, foreign fund managers can operate in Singapore, but they must comply with local licensing requirements and may need to establish a presence in Singapore to offer their services to local investors.

How are disputes involving funds typically resolved?

Disputes can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation, depending on the nature of the dispute and the agreements governing the fund or investment product.

What happens if a fund manager breaches regulatory requirements?

Regulatory breaches may result in administrative sanctions, monetary penalties, suspension or revocation of licenses, and in severe cases, criminal prosecution by MAS.

Additional Resources

If you need further information or support in the funds and asset management sector, these resources may be helpful:

  • Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) - The main regulator for funds and asset management in Singapore
  • Singapore Academy of Law (SAL) - Provides legal resources and directories for finding experienced lawyers
  • Law Society of Singapore - Offers a “Find a Lawyer” service and general guidance on engaging legal professionals
  • Singapore Funds Industry Group (SFIC) - An industry body providing insights, guidelines, and events relevant to fund professionals
  • Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) - Information on tax incentives and schemes available for funds
  • Ministry of Law - Guidance on business regulations and dispute resolution options

Next Steps

If you believe you need legal assistance in funds and asset management matters, consider taking the following steps:

  • Outline your objectives and gather relevant documents, such as business plans, fund structures, and any correspondence with regulatory bodies
  • Contact a law firm or practitioner experienced in funds and asset management for an initial consultation
  • Ask about the lawyer’s specific experience in dealing with fund setups, compliance, and disputes relevant to your needs
  • Discuss potential costs, timelines, and required documentation upfront
  • Follow your lawyer’s advice on compliance, structuring, and regulatory submissions to ensure smooth and timely outcomes
  • Stay updated on regulatory changes by subscribing to updates from MAS or professional bodies

With the right legal support and a clear understanding of regulatory requirements, you can confidently participate in Singapore’s dynamic funds and asset management sector.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Singapore through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Funds & Asset Management, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.