Clifford Chance leverages its deep expertise in banking and finance to navigate a broad range of fintech and financial issues, including payment systems, export finance, and regulatory matters related to derivatives and automated trading systems. The firm’s extensive multi-jurisdictional experience also positions it well to manage complex regulatory investigations effectively. Lena Ng advises on licensing, exemptions, conduct of business, and other regulatory issues, frequently supporting clients on both a local and international basis. She leads the team alongside Stella Cramer, who assists clients on complex, digital and transformational technology and commercial transactions, platform agreements, and the full range of data and privacy matters. Elsewhere in the team, Kabir Singh stands out for his expertise in cross-border disputes, and Nish Shetty is recommended for his experience advising clients on high-profile cross-jurisdictional regulatory investigations.

Lauded for its ability to provide clients with ‘professional and practical advisory opinions’, the fintech and FSR team at Linklaters stands out for its comprehensive expertise in global reorganisations, digital assets, advanced payment solutions, and programmable money. The team is also well-equipped to support ESG initiatives, particularly those involving blockchain technology. Practice head Peiying Chua, who is praised for her ‘in-depth knowledge of the regulatory regime in Singapore’, maintains a busy practice covering the spectrum of fintech matters. Evan Lam is a key port of call of international and domestic clients seeking advice on the full spectrum of Singapore financial regulations, while Jonathan Horan stands out for his capital markets expertise.

‘Responsive, attentive, and great to work with’, the team at A&O Shearman excels in fintech-related matters, offering expert advice on cryptocurrency, digital assets, and blockchain technologies. Additionally, the practice is renowned for its deep expertise in data compliance for the banking sector and in addressing regulatory demands from the Monetary Authority of Singapore. Steering the practice is the ‘amazing’ Shuhui Kwok, who is frequently instructed by banks, insurers, broker-dealers, payment services providers, fund managers, financial advisers and fintech players on matters affecting the financial services industry. Yu Jia Ang specialises in providing guidance to financial institutions on anti-money laundering and a range of compliance issues.

Herbert Smith Freehills LLP is noted for its expertise in contentious mandates, namely cross-border regulatory investigations, in addition to non-contentious matters covering regulatory compliance and implementation, licensing and authorisations, new products and service design, in addition to digital assets. Key clients include international banks, financial institutions and listed companies. Managing director of Prolegis LLC, the Formal Law Alliance partner of the firm, Daniel Chia is a key contact in the group alongside Chee Hian Kwah.

Highlighted for its ‘exceptional responsiveness, reliability, and comprehensive approach’, Norton Rose Fulbright’s fintech practice stands out with its regulatory expertise in P2P platforms, blockchain, data privacy, and technology disputes. The team adeptly supports major clients with fintech expansions and has experienced a notable increase in demand for guidance on emerging platforms and disruptive technologies, particularly for those introducing new products in Singapore prior to a global launch. At the helm sits Etelka Bogardi, who divides her time between Singapore and Hong Kong and is recognised for her expertise in the regulation of digital assets and innovative payment solutions. Anna Tipping is noted for her extensive experience in the insurance sector, while Wilson Ang stands out for his work on crypto matters. Nina Stammbach is also recommended and has been lauded as an ‘exceptional professional’.

Standing out for its ‘expertise, client-centric approach, and ability to stay ahead of industry trends’, the team at Reed Smith LLP is highly regarded for its extensive knowledge of Singapore’s financial regulations, encompassing payment services, traditional securities, licensing, and regulatory issues. Practice co-head Hagen Rooke draws considerable praise from clients for his ‘thorough understanding of the regulatory landscape and ability to offer practical, tailored solutions’ which make him an ‘invaluable asset’. Fellow co-head Bryan Tan is noted for his experience advising on venture capital investments into fast-growing technology companies, as well as cryptocurrency projects, including funds, exchanges, and international consortiums. Jun Qi Chin is also recommended.