More funds and products expected, as market awaits details about Singapore’s S$5 billion equities push

[SINGAPORE] The S$5 billion Equity Market Development Programme (EQDP) that was announced by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) in February will likely encourage more funds and products to come to the local market, even as questions remain on its potential effectiveness, said industry watchers.

“A lot of the Singapore-based fund managers we spoke with are awaiting more details of the programme to see how they can create a product that is suited to the requirements,” said Jason Saw, group head of investment banking at Asian broking house CGS International.

He expects more funds to launch, given the EQDP’s focus on directing capital into domestic markets.

Lin Yujun, chief executive of Interactive Brokers Singapore, said that the MAS initiative creates a “stronger foundation” for fund launches and growth by “fostering a more active trading environment”.

Under the EQDP, MAS will invest in selected fund managers with expertise to implement investment mandates with a strong focus on Singapore stocks. Not only must they have a good track record, they should venture beyond index component stocks and be open to expanding operations in the Republic. The programme aims to build up Singapore’s fund management industry and boost trading liquidity in the local market.