MAS Rules & Disclosures
This document sets out the compliance framework, disclosures, and disclaimers that govern the operations of Singapore Finance. It explains our regulatory status, our relationship with readers and with licensed financial advisers, the manner in which we label and disclose advertising or affiliate arrangements, and the limitations inherent in the information we provide. It also sets out important risk warnings for users of our services.
Singapore Finance is first and foremost an educational publisher. Our mission is to provide Singaporeans with clear, independent, and accessible information about financial products and decisions. We do not, however, provide financial advice. That function is strictly reserved for individuals and entities licensed under the Financial Advisers Act (Cap. 110) and supervised by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). Where our readers require personalised recommendations, we connect them with MAS-licensed advisers who are qualified to provide such services.
Our Status as an Educational Publisher
Singapore Finance is not, and does not hold itself out to be, a financial adviser. We do not hold any licence under the Financial Advisers Act or related legislation in Singapore. We are not authorised to recommend or sell specific financial products, nor do we engage in portfolio management, insurance broking, or fund distribution. Our role is strictly limited to the publication of educational content, comparison tables, guides, and analytical tools. These materials are designed to improve financial literacy, assist users in understanding broad features of available products, and highlight important considerations before consulting a professional.
We emphasise that no user of our services should treat any content published on our website as a substitute for professional advice. The information provided is general in nature and does not take into account the specific objectives, financial situation, or needs of any individual.
Role of MAS-Licensed Advisors
Where users wish to take the next step, we provide an advisor connection service. This service operates on the principle of consent and transparency. When a user requests an introduction, we collect only the information necessary to make the connection, such as contact details and a brief description of financial goals. With the user’s consent, this information is passed to an MAS-licensed financial adviser or firm.
It is important to clarify that once an introduction is made, the professional responsibility for advice lies entirely with the licensed adviser. That adviser is required to conduct a needs analysis, consider the client’s circumstances, and make suitable recommendations in accordance with the Financial Advisers Act, the Notice on Recommendations on Investment Products (FAA-N16), and other applicable regulations. Singapore Finance is not a party to that advisory relationship. We are not responsible for the quality, suitability, or outcomes of the advice provided.
Advertising, Sponsorship, and Affiliate Arrangements
To sustain our publishing operations, we accept advertising and participate in affiliate marketing programs. Such arrangements may result in Singapore Finance receiving compensation when users click on links or are referred to third-party providers.
We believe that transparency is essential. Sponsored content is always labelled with the word “Sponsored” or an equivalent disclosure. Affiliate links are disclosed clearly within articles or at the end of content. We never allow sponsors or partners to influence our editorial scoring, product rankings, or methodology. Our editorial and commercial functions are separated by internal policies to ensure independence.
Unsponsored content, including most of our comparison tables and explanatory guides, is produced independently by our editorial team and is not influenced by advertisers. We publish our methodology openly so that readers understand how we arrive at our conclusions.
Limitations of Information
While we strive to ensure accuracy, all information presented on Singapore Finance has inherent limitations. Financial products are subject to change. Insurers may revise premiums, exclusions, or riders. Brokers may adjust fee structures. Banks may withdraw or amend offers without notice.
The information we provide is therefore accurate as of the date of publication, but may not reflect the latest changes. Furthermore, our lists of products are not exhaustive. While we cover major providers in the Singapore market, there may be additional offerings not included in our guides or tables.
We rely on publicly available sources such as product brochures, prospectuses, official websites, and disclosures from regulators. Although we review and verify these materials carefully, we cannot guarantee their completeness or accuracy. Users must always consult the original product documentation and seek advice from an MAS-licensed adviser before making decisions.
Risk Warnings
All financial products carry risk. Past performance is not indicative of future results, and no investment or insurance plan is without potential downsides.
For investment products, risks include but are not limited to market risk, credit risk, liquidity risk, and counterparty risk. Prices can go down as well as up, and investors may not recover the capital they invest. Complex instruments, such as investment-linked policies (ILPs) or derivatives, can result in substantial losses and are not suitable for all individuals.
For insurance products, risks manifest in different ways. Policies may contain exclusions, waiting periods, or conditions that limit coverage. Claims may be denied if conditions are not met. Premiums may increase over time, and certain benefits may be subject to review or termination.
We therefore caution users: do not rely solely on our summaries or comparison tools. Always seek independent, personalised advice from a licensed professional.
Editorial Independence
Independence and trust are the foundation of our work. Our editorial staff operate under strict guidelines that separate them from the influence of advertisers. Staff are required to disclose any personal conflicts of interest, such as ownership of shares in companies under review. Where conflicts exist, staff are recused from coverage.
Our scoring methodologies for “Best” lists are applied consistently across categories and are published under our Selection Methodology page. Sponsored placements cannot alter scores. Any sponsored content is clearly labelled and written separately from editorial analysis.
Data Protection and Privacy
In handling user information, we comply with the Personal Data Protection Act 2012 (PDPA). Personal data collected for advisor connections is used strictly for that purpose and shared only with MAS-licensed advisers upon user consent. We retain referral information only as long as necessary to complete the introduction and comply with record-keeping obligations.
Our full Privacy Policy explains in detail the types of data we collect, the purposes for which it is used, and the rights of individuals under the PDPA. Users have the right to request access to their data, correction of inaccuracies, or withdrawal of consent.
Complaints and Disputes
We welcome feedback and are committed to resolving complaints promptly. Complaints relating to the website, content accuracy, or disclosures may be directed to compliance@singaporefinance.sg.
Where a complaint concerns the advice given by an MAS-licensed adviser, users should raise the matter directly with the licensed firm. Such firms are required under MAS rules to have their own complaints handling procedures.
If a user is not satisfied with the resolution, they may escalate the matter to the Financial Industry Disputes Resolution Centre Ltd (FIDReC), an independent and impartial institution in Singapore that handles disputes between consumers and financial institutions. Users may also escalate to the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) in cases involving potential regulatory breaches.
Legal Disclaimers
The content and services of Singapore Finance are provided on an “as is” basis without warranties of any kind. We disclaim all warranties, express or implied, including but not limited to accuracy, completeness, timeliness, merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, and non-infringement.
We accept no liability for any damages, losses, or expenses arising directly or indirectly from the use of our services. This includes, without limitation, loss of data, loss of income, loss of opportunity, or loss arising from dealings with third-party advisers, advertisers, or product providers.
User Responsibilities
By using our website and services, users acknowledge and accept the limitations and disclaimers contained in this document. Users agree to read relevant product prospectuses, policy documents, and regulatory disclosures. Users agree to hold Singapore Finance harmless for any reliance placed on the general information we provide.
We remind users that any financial decision should be made with the assistance of an MAS-licensed adviser who is obligated by law to conduct a thorough suitability analysis before making recommendations.
Governing Law and Jurisdiction
This document, and the services provided by Singapore Finance, are governed by the laws of Singapore. Any dispute arising out of or in connection with this Policy shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Singapore.
Conclusion
Through this MAS Rules & Disclosures statement, we reaffirm our commitment to transparency, independence, and compliance. We exist to inform and empower Singaporeans, not to advise or sell. Our relationship with readers is built on clarity: we are a publisher; advice comes only from MAS-licensed professionals. We disclose when content is sponsored or when we may earn referral income. We highlight the risks inherent in financial products and the limitations of our information.
By setting out these disclosures in full, we ensure that users can make informed decisions, not only about their money but also about the sources of information they choose to rely upon.