Singapore's New Single Family Office Policies(2023)
2023-12-07
On July 5, 2023, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) introduced a series of new policies regarding Singapore single family office, providing clearer guidelines on investment directions and updating some application conditions. This article will delve into the 3 major changes brought about by these policies.
1. Increased Initial Capital Requirement:
The previous requirement for family offices to submit their final tax-exempt and license-free applications within 24 months with an initial investment of SGD 10 million has been revised. As of July 5, 2023, family offices are now mandated to invest a direct sum of SGD 20 million in the first year, with no grace period for reaching this threshold.
2. Restriction on Employment Passes (EP):
Earlier policies allowed family offices to apply for two EPs, both of which could be family members. However, the new regulation, effective July 5th, stipulates that one EP must be a family member, while the other fund manager must be a non-family member.
3. Refined Investment Focus:
The MAS has specified the minimum capital's investment direction, aiming to encourage local hiring and investments in the Singaporean stock market. Qualified actions include donating to eligible Singaporean charitable organizations, which will be counted as double expenditures for tax calculations.
Climate-related investments and hybrid financing structures are also deemed eligible investments. In the case of hybrid financing, stocks listed in Singapore will be accorded double recognition. For instance, a donation of $300,000 to the Asian Climate Solutions Scholarship Fund will be considered as a $600,000 contribution.
In summary, Singapore's new family office policies aim to enhance transparency, attract local talent, and stimulate investments in crucial sectors. These changes provide a more structured framework for family offices to operate within the country's regulatory landscape.
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