Singapore Crypto Regulations: What You Need to Know in 2025

When it comes to Singapore crypto regulations, the strict but transparent framework set by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) that governs digital asset trading, custody, and issuance. Also known as MAS crypto rules, it’s one of the few places where crypto businesses can operate legally without guessing what’s allowed. Unlike countries that ban crypto or leave it in a gray zone, Singapore has built a clear path: register, comply, and operate.

This system isn’t just about control—it’s about trust. The Monetary Authority of Singapore, the country’s central bank and financial regulator responsible for overseeing all financial activities, including crypto. Also known as MAS, it requires every crypto exchange, wallet provider, or token issuer to get a license under the Payment Services Act. That means they must prove they have proper anti-money laundering (AML) systems, secure custody for customer funds, and real-time transaction monitoring. If they fail, they’re shut down. No warnings. No second chances. This is why platforms like Coinbase and Binance have offices here—they know MAS won’t let them cut corners.

It’s not just exchanges that are watched. VASP Singapore, Virtual Asset Service Providers, which include any business handling crypto transfers, custody, or trading. Also known as crypto service providers in Singapore, they must report suspicious activity to the Financial Intelligence Unit. Even small token sales need to follow disclosure rules. The MAS doesn’t ban any coin outright, but if a token looks like a security under the Howey Test, it’s treated like one. That’s why many projects avoid launching tokens in Singapore unless they’re clearly utility-based.

For users, this means safety. Your funds are more likely to be protected. Withdrawals are faster because exchanges aren’t hiding behind offshore shells. But it also means fewer risky airdrops, no unregulated leveraged trading, and no platforms promising 1000% returns. If it sounds too good to be true in Singapore, it probably is—and it’s likely already blocked.

What you’ll find in the posts below are real examples of how these rules play out: how exchanges navigate compliance, what happens when a project ignores MAS guidelines, and how traders adjust their strategies under clear, enforced rules. There’s no speculation here—just facts from the front lines of one of the world’s most disciplined crypto markets.