The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) recognizes the impact of the global financial crisis in Asia. MAS is adopting a long-term perspective in supervising and developing the financial sector, and conducting critical liberalization in the banking sector.

As Singapore is a leading financial center in Asia, MAS encourages more investment from both international and local financial institutions and corporations. MAS has developed shari'a-compliant financial services by building upon existing strengths in banking, trade finance, capital markets, and asset management.

Details of MAS’ strategic priorities are available through the links provided below.

MAS tries to ensure its regulatory framework is responsive to capital market developments through amendments to the Securities and Futures Act (SFA). Amendments for 2009 include sections on Capital Markets Licensing and Business Conduct; Market Misconduct Enforcement Framework; Notification of Changes in Shareholding of Directors, Chief Executive Offices and Substantial Shareholders and Offers of Investments; Markets and Clearing Facilities; and Regulatory Flexibility to Deal with Market Innovation.

The Singapore Exchange (SGX) supports market integration of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and aims to be Asia’s risk management center by maintaining a regulatory infrastructure responsive to the market environment, and aligning market practices to international best practices. In March 2009, SGX implemented new securities listing rules and revised other rules to heighten market efficiency.