While 73,000 investors are still interested in CFDs, only half stayed active in 2024.
The market evolution is marked by prop firms, transparency, and lower costs.
The number of active FX/CFD traders in Singapore is falling
Singapore's
leverage trading market continues to contract toward pre-pandemic levels, yet
maintains a significant market presence with 73,000 potential investors still
showing interest in CFD trading, according to a new industry report by
Investment Trends released today (Wednesday).
What is
more, 60% of active investors expressed interest in the offerings of
proprietary trading firms, confirming the growing importance of this sector in
retail trading.
Singapore CFD Market Holds
Ground but Retail Trading Base Shrinks
The latest
research from Investment Trends reveals that while retail leveraged trader
numbers are trending toward pre-pandemic levels, a substantial pool of online cash
equities investors maintains an active interest in CFDs.
This
transition marks a significant shift in trading motivations, with 47% of
traders now primarily focused on profiting from specific market events, while
leverage remains a crucial factor for 41% of participants.
Lorenzo Vignati, Associate Research Director at Investment Trends
“The
data highlights an evolving dynamic in Singapore’s leverage trading market,”
said Lorenzo Vignati, Associate Research Director at Investment Trends.
“While active trader numbers have declined, the interest in CFDs remains
significant, driven by sharp pricing and effective decision-support tools. This
shift reflects changing trader priorities and signals an opportunity for the
market to better meet evolving investor needs.”
Although
Investment Trends reports that there are over 70,000 investors in Singapore interested
in CFDs, the actual number of “active” participants is significantly
lower (check the infographic above). In the report, activity is defined as
investors who have opened at least one leveraged position in the past 12
months.
According
to 2024 data, this group comprises 38,000 individuals, the lowest since 2019
and nearly 10,000 fewer than the 2021 peak, when
the figure reached 47,000. The number of consistently active clients,
however, has not changed as drastically. Three years ago, it stood at over
30,000, compared to the current figure of 26,000.
The number
of traders is declining not only in the CFD sector but also across other
markets. Two weeks ago, Investment
Trends released a similar report revealing that Singapore's online trading
community had shrunk to just under 250,000 active traders, down from 264,000
reported a year ago. The number of investors has fallen to its lowest level
since 2018, marking the third consecutive period of decline.
Prop Trading on the Rise
The
landscape is witnessing a notable surge in portfolio diversification, with
traders actively incorporating CFDs alongside other investment products.
Technological adoption is accelerating, with three in five traders either
already engaged in or showing interest in prop trading.
Local
regulations, however, may pose challenges for proprietary trading firms. Two
months ago, Singapore-based
MPFunds ceased operations, citing “regulatory decisions and strict
enforcement within the local landscape” as the reasons for its closure.
Moreover,
the integration of artificial intelligence in trading strategies has gained
significant traction, with two-thirds of traders either utilizing or expressing
openness to AI-assisted trading tools.
“The
diversification of investment products and the integration of global
innovations like AI-assisted trading reflect a more sophisticated trader base,”
Vignati added. “The data clearly shows Singaporean traders are increasingly
seeking cutting-edge tools and insights to enhance both trading opportunities
and efficiency.”
Transparency and Cost
Efficiency
The report also
highlights a steady increase in switching intentions among traders over the
past five years. Cost consciousness and execution quality have emerged as
primary drivers for broker changes, with traders increasingly demanding
transparency in their trading relationships. This trend suggests a maturing
market where sophisticated traders are actively seeking partners that align
with their evolving needs.
“Transparency
is an increasingly vital factor for traders,” Vignati emphasized. “Those
looking to switch are demanding not only lower costs but also more reliable and
efficient trading experiences. Brokers who can deliver on these fronts will be
well-positioned to win over this discerning segment.”
Singapore
has become an important market for brokers, as highlighted in IG
Group's fiscal year 2024 financial report. It was the only jurisdiction to
report revenue growth last year, with larger clients driving a 6% increase in
income through heightened trading activity. IG attributed the stronger trading
revenue in Singapore to higher trading volumes from its largest clients.
The
findings underscore Singapore's position as a dynamic trading hub, where
traditional leverage trading practices are being reshaped by technological
innovation and changing investor preferences.
Singapore's
leverage trading market continues to contract toward pre-pandemic levels, yet
maintains a significant market presence with 73,000 potential investors still
showing interest in CFD trading, according to a new industry report by
Investment Trends released today (Wednesday).
What is
more, 60% of active investors expressed interest in the offerings of
proprietary trading firms, confirming the growing importance of this sector in
retail trading.
Singapore CFD Market Holds
Ground but Retail Trading Base Shrinks
The latest
research from Investment Trends reveals that while retail leveraged trader
numbers are trending toward pre-pandemic levels, a substantial pool of online cash
equities investors maintains an active interest in CFDs.
This
transition marks a significant shift in trading motivations, with 47% of
traders now primarily focused on profiting from specific market events, while
leverage remains a crucial factor for 41% of participants.
Lorenzo Vignati, Associate Research Director at Investment Trends
“The
data highlights an evolving dynamic in Singapore’s leverage trading market,”
said Lorenzo Vignati, Associate Research Director at Investment Trends.
“While active trader numbers have declined, the interest in CFDs remains
significant, driven by sharp pricing and effective decision-support tools. This
shift reflects changing trader priorities and signals an opportunity for the
market to better meet evolving investor needs.”
Although
Investment Trends reports that there are over 70,000 investors in Singapore interested
in CFDs, the actual number of “active” participants is significantly
lower (check the infographic above). In the report, activity is defined as
investors who have opened at least one leveraged position in the past 12
months.
According
to 2024 data, this group comprises 38,000 individuals, the lowest since 2019
and nearly 10,000 fewer than the 2021 peak, when
the figure reached 47,000. The number of consistently active clients,
however, has not changed as drastically. Three years ago, it stood at over
30,000, compared to the current figure of 26,000.
The number
of traders is declining not only in the CFD sector but also across other
markets. Two weeks ago, Investment
Trends released a similar report revealing that Singapore's online trading
community had shrunk to just under 250,000 active traders, down from 264,000
reported a year ago. The number of investors has fallen to its lowest level
since 2018, marking the third consecutive period of decline.
Prop Trading on the Rise
The
landscape is witnessing a notable surge in portfolio diversification, with
traders actively incorporating CFDs alongside other investment products.
Technological adoption is accelerating, with three in five traders either
already engaged in or showing interest in prop trading.
Local
regulations, however, may pose challenges for proprietary trading firms. Two
months ago, Singapore-based
MPFunds ceased operations, citing “regulatory decisions and strict
enforcement within the local landscape” as the reasons for its closure.
Moreover,
the integration of artificial intelligence in trading strategies has gained
significant traction, with two-thirds of traders either utilizing or expressing
openness to AI-assisted trading tools.
“The
diversification of investment products and the integration of global
innovations like AI-assisted trading reflect a more sophisticated trader base,”
Vignati added. “The data clearly shows Singaporean traders are increasingly
seeking cutting-edge tools and insights to enhance both trading opportunities
and efficiency.”
Transparency and Cost
Efficiency
The report also
highlights a steady increase in switching intentions among traders over the
past five years. Cost consciousness and execution quality have emerged as
primary drivers for broker changes, with traders increasingly demanding
transparency in their trading relationships. This trend suggests a maturing
market where sophisticated traders are actively seeking partners that align
with their evolving needs.
“Transparency
is an increasingly vital factor for traders,” Vignati emphasized. “Those
looking to switch are demanding not only lower costs but also more reliable and
efficient trading experiences. Brokers who can deliver on these fronts will be
well-positioned to win over this discerning segment.”
Singapore
has become an important market for brokers, as highlighted in IG
Group's fiscal year 2024 financial report. It was the only jurisdiction to
report revenue growth last year, with larger clients driving a 6% increase in
income through heightened trading activity. IG attributed the stronger trading
revenue in Singapore to higher trading volumes from its largest clients.
The
findings underscore Singapore's position as a dynamic trading hub, where
traditional leverage trading practices are being reshaped by technological
innovation and changing investor preferences.
Damian's adventure with financial markets began at the Cracow University of Economics, where he obtained his MA in finance and accounting. Starting from the retail trader perspective, he collaborated with brokerage houses and financial portals in Poland as an independent editor and content manager. His adventure with Finance Magnates began in 2016, where he is working as a business intelligence analyst.
Capital Index UK Changes Name to Vantos Markets Following Tough Trading Year
Hannah Hill on Innovation, Branding & Award-Winning Technology | Executive Interview | AXI
Hannah Hill on Innovation, Branding & Award-Winning Technology | Executive Interview | AXI
Recorded live at FMLS:25, this executive interview features Hannah Hill, Head of Brand and Sponsorship at AXI, in conversation with Finance Magnates, following AXI’s win for Most Innovative Broker of the Year 2025.
In this wide-ranging discussion, Hannah shares insights on:
🔹What winning the Finance Magnates award means for AXI’s credibility and innovation
🔹How the launch of AXI Select, the capital allocation program, is redefining industry standards
🔹The development and rollout of the AXI trading app across multiple markets
🔹Driving brand evolution alongside technological advancements
🔹Encouraging and recognizing teams behind the scenes
🔹The role of marketing, content, and social media in building product awareness
Hannah explains why standout products, strategic branding, and a focus on innovation are key to growing visibility and staying ahead in a competitive brokerage landscape.
🏆 Award Highlight: Most Innovative Broker of the Year 2025
👉 Subscribe to Finance Magnates for more executive interviews, industry insights, and exclusive coverage from the world’s leading financial events.
#FMLS25 #FinanceMagnates #MostInnovativeBroker #TradingTechnology #FinTech #Brokerage #ExecutiveInterview #AXI
Recorded live at FMLS:25, this executive interview features Hannah Hill, Head of Brand and Sponsorship at AXI, in conversation with Finance Magnates, following AXI’s win for Most Innovative Broker of the Year 2025.
In this wide-ranging discussion, Hannah shares insights on:
🔹What winning the Finance Magnates award means for AXI’s credibility and innovation
🔹How the launch of AXI Select, the capital allocation program, is redefining industry standards
🔹The development and rollout of the AXI trading app across multiple markets
🔹Driving brand evolution alongside technological advancements
🔹Encouraging and recognizing teams behind the scenes
🔹The role of marketing, content, and social media in building product awareness
Hannah explains why standout products, strategic branding, and a focus on innovation are key to growing visibility and staying ahead in a competitive brokerage landscape.
🏆 Award Highlight: Most Innovative Broker of the Year 2025
👉 Subscribe to Finance Magnates for more executive interviews, industry insights, and exclusive coverage from the world’s leading financial events.
#FMLS25 #FinanceMagnates #MostInnovativeBroker #TradingTechnology #FinTech #Brokerage #ExecutiveInterview #AXI
Executive Interview | Dor Eligula | Co-Founder & Chief Business Officer, BridgeWise | FMLS:25
Executive Interview | Dor Eligula | Co-Founder & Chief Business Officer, BridgeWise | FMLS:25
In this session, Jonathan Fine form Ultimate Group speaks with Dor Eligula from Bridgewise, a fast-growing AI-powered research and analytics firm supporting brokers and exchanges worldwide.
We start with Dor’s reaction to the Summit and then move to broker growth and the quick wins brokers often overlook. Dor shares where he sees “blue ocean” growth across Asian markets and how local client behaviour shapes demand.
We also discuss the rollout of AI across investment research. Dor gives real examples of how automation and human judgment meet at Bridgewise — including moments when analysts corrected AI output, and times when AI prevented an error.
We close with a practical question: how retail investors can actually use AI without falling into common traps.
In this session, Jonathan Fine form Ultimate Group speaks with Dor Eligula from Bridgewise, a fast-growing AI-powered research and analytics firm supporting brokers and exchanges worldwide.
We start with Dor’s reaction to the Summit and then move to broker growth and the quick wins brokers often overlook. Dor shares where he sees “blue ocean” growth across Asian markets and how local client behaviour shapes demand.
We also discuss the rollout of AI across investment research. Dor gives real examples of how automation and human judgment meet at Bridgewise — including moments when analysts corrected AI output, and times when AI prevented an error.
We close with a practical question: how retail investors can actually use AI without falling into common traps.
Brendan Callan joined us fresh off the Summit’s most anticipated debate: “Is Prop Trading Good for the Industry?” Brendan argued against the motion — and the audience voted him the winner.
In this interview, Brendan explains the reasoning behind his position. He walks through the message he believes many firms avoid: that the current prop trading model is too dependent on fees, too loose on risk, and too confusing for retail audiences.
We discuss why he thinks the model grew fast, why it may run into walls, and what he believes is needed for a cleaner, more responsible version of prop trading.
This is Brendan at his frankest — sharp, grounded, and very clear about what changes are overdue.
Brendan Callan joined us fresh off the Summit’s most anticipated debate: “Is Prop Trading Good for the Industry?” Brendan argued against the motion — and the audience voted him the winner.
In this interview, Brendan explains the reasoning behind his position. He walks through the message he believes many firms avoid: that the current prop trading model is too dependent on fees, too loose on risk, and too confusing for retail audiences.
We discuss why he thinks the model grew fast, why it may run into walls, and what he believes is needed for a cleaner, more responsible version of prop trading.
This is Brendan at his frankest — sharp, grounded, and very clear about what changes are overdue.
Elina Pedersen on Growth, Stability & Ultra-Low Latency | Executive Interview | Your Bourse
Elina Pedersen on Growth, Stability & Ultra-Low Latency | Executive Interview | Your Bourse
Recorded live at FMLS:25 London, this executive interview features Elina Pedersen, in conversation with Finance Magnates, following her company’s win for Best Connectivity 2025.
🔹In this wide-ranging discussion, Elina shares insights on:
🔹What winning a Finance Magnates award means for credibility and reputation
🔹How broker demand for stability and reliability is driving rapid growth
🔹The launch of a new trade server enabling flexible front-end integrations
🔹Why ultra-low latency must be proven with data, not buzzwords
🔹Common mistakes brokers make when scaling globally
🔹Educating the industry through a newly launched Dealers Academy
🔹Where AI fits into trading infrastructure and where it doesn’t
Elina explains why resilient back-end infrastructure, deep client partnerships, and disciplined focus are critical for brokers looking to scale sustainably in today’s competitive market.
🏆 Award Highlight: Best Connectivity 2025
👉 Subscribe to Finance Magnates for more executive interviews, industry insights, and exclusive coverage from the world’s leading financial events.
#FMLS25 #FinanceMagnates #BestConnectivity #TradingTechnology #UltraLowLatency #FinTech #Brokerage #ExecutiveInterview
Recorded live at FMLS:25 London, this executive interview features Elina Pedersen, in conversation with Finance Magnates, following her company’s win for Best Connectivity 2025.
🔹In this wide-ranging discussion, Elina shares insights on:
🔹What winning a Finance Magnates award means for credibility and reputation
🔹How broker demand for stability and reliability is driving rapid growth
🔹The launch of a new trade server enabling flexible front-end integrations
🔹Why ultra-low latency must be proven with data, not buzzwords
🔹Common mistakes brokers make when scaling globally
🔹Educating the industry through a newly launched Dealers Academy
🔹Where AI fits into trading infrastructure and where it doesn’t
Elina explains why resilient back-end infrastructure, deep client partnerships, and disciplined focus are critical for brokers looking to scale sustainably in today’s competitive market.
🏆 Award Highlight: Best Connectivity 2025
👉 Subscribe to Finance Magnates for more executive interviews, industry insights, and exclusive coverage from the world’s leading financial events.
#FMLS25 #FinanceMagnates #BestConnectivity #TradingTechnology #UltraLowLatency #FinTech #Brokerage #ExecutiveInterview
In this video, we take an in-depth look at @BlueberryMarketsForex , a forex and CFD broker operating since 2016, offering access to multiple trading platforms, over 1,000 instruments, and flexible account types for different trading styles.
We break down Blueberry’s regulatory structure, including its Australian Financial Services License (AFSL), as well as its authorisation and registrations in other jurisdictions. The review also covers supported platforms such as MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, TradingView, Blueberry.X, and web-based trading.
You’ll learn about available instruments across forex, commodities, indices, share CFDs, and crypto CFDs, along with leverage options, minimum and maximum trade sizes, and how Blueberry structures its Standard and Raw accounts.
We also explain spreads, commissions, swap rates, swap-free account availability, funding and withdrawal methods, processing times, and what traders can expect from customer support and additional services.
Watch the full review to see whether Blueberry’s trading setup aligns with your experience level, strategy, and risk tolerance.
📣 Stay up to date with the latest in finance and trading. Follow Finance Magnates for industry news, insights, and global event coverage.
Connect with us:
🔗 LinkedIn: /financemagnates
👍 Facebook: /financemagnates
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/financemagnates
🐦 X: https://x.com/financemagnates
🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/tag/financemagnates
▶️ YouTube: /@financemagnates_official
#Blueberry #BlueberryMarkets #BrokerReview #ForexBroker #CFDTrading #OnlineTrading #FinanceMagnates #TradingPlatforms #MarketInsights
In this video, we take an in-depth look at @BlueberryMarketsForex , a forex and CFD broker operating since 2016, offering access to multiple trading platforms, over 1,000 instruments, and flexible account types for different trading styles.
We break down Blueberry’s regulatory structure, including its Australian Financial Services License (AFSL), as well as its authorisation and registrations in other jurisdictions. The review also covers supported platforms such as MetaTrader 4, MetaTrader 5, cTrader, TradingView, Blueberry.X, and web-based trading.
You’ll learn about available instruments across forex, commodities, indices, share CFDs, and crypto CFDs, along with leverage options, minimum and maximum trade sizes, and how Blueberry structures its Standard and Raw accounts.
We also explain spreads, commissions, swap rates, swap-free account availability, funding and withdrawal methods, processing times, and what traders can expect from customer support and additional services.
Watch the full review to see whether Blueberry’s trading setup aligns with your experience level, strategy, and risk tolerance.
📣 Stay up to date with the latest in finance and trading. Follow Finance Magnates for industry news, insights, and global event coverage.
Connect with us:
🔗 LinkedIn: /financemagnates
👍 Facebook: /financemagnates
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/financemagnates
🐦 X: https://x.com/financemagnates
🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/tag/financemagnates
▶️ YouTube: /@financemagnates_official
#Blueberry #BlueberryMarkets #BrokerReview #ForexBroker #CFDTrading #OnlineTrading #FinanceMagnates #TradingPlatforms #MarketInsights
