Singapore is extending and enriching its equities market through a new collaboration with Nasdaq for dual listings. The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has developed a dual listing conduit that links the Singapore Exchange (SGX) and Nasdaq in the United States, thereby creating a novel board, as per the latest announcement.
The new board is anticipated to commence operations around mid-2026 and will have a focus on “top-tier Asian growth firms” that have a market capitalisation of S$2 billion ($1.5 billion) or higher. The primary objective is to facilitate firms that have “an Asian connection and worldwide objectives” to raise funds from investors in both markets.
The two exchanges have suggested a number of measures, all of which are subject to regulatory procedures. These include the use of a single set of offering documents to minimize regulatory hurdles and costs. According to MAS, the new system will “offer a direct and harmonized route for businesses to simultaneously access capital and liquidity across North America and Asia.”
As part of a broader initiative being undertaken by the Equities Market Review Group, the new bridge has been established. The group has recently concluded its examination of the stock market and released a final report.
Additional initiatives announced include the introduction of a S$30 million package designed to assist listed companies in unlocking shareholder value and deepening engagement. There will be appointments for a second batch of asset managers as part of the S$5 billion Equity Market Development Program (EQDP). The program will also see several enhancements, such as strengthening market making, modernizing post-trade custody, and reducing board lot size.
The second batch of asset managers will be allocated S$2.85 billion. The group includes Amova Asset Management (previously known as Nikko Asset Management), AR Capital, BlackRock, Eastspring Investments (Singapore), Lion Global Investors, and Manulife Investment Management (Singapore).
What is the objective of the new board?
The new board aims to facilitate “top-tier Asian growth firms” with a market capitalization of S$2 billion ($1.5 billion) or more to raise funds from investors in both the Singapore and US markets.
What measures have been proposed by the two exchanges for the new board?
The two exchanges have suggested a number of measures including the use of a single set of offering documents to help reduce regulatory hurdles and associated costs.
What are some of the initiatives announced by the Equities Market Review Group?
The Group has announced several initiatives including a S$30 million package to assist listed companies, appointment of a second batch of asset managers under the Equity Market Development Program (EQDP), and various enhancements to strengthen market making, modernize post-trade custody, and reduce board lot size.
