Singapore's retail cryptocurrency market is maturing, with investors increasingly prioritizing trust over low fees when selecting trading platforms. A recent survey conducted by MoneyHero and Coinbase Global indicates a significant shift in the city-state's crypto ecosystem.
The survey, which polled 3,513 retail investors and crypto-curious individuals in Singapore in August 2025, revealed that 61% of "finance-savvy" Singaporeans now hold cryptocurrency. This high adoption rate suggests that cryptocurrency is moving beyond a niche interest and becoming a mainstream part of retail finance in Singapore.
Notably, trust has emerged as the primary deciding factor for investors when choosing a crypto exchange, outweighing the importance of low fees. The survey found that 65% of respondents prioritized trust, while 42% considered fees as a key factor. This indicates a growing preference for regulated, onshore platforms that offer security and a reliable framework.
The survey also shed light on investment strategies among Singaporean crypto holders. A majority, 58%, identified as long-term holders, with 42% having held their investments for over two years. This "HODL bias" suggests a preference for longer holding periods rather than active trading, with only 22% identifying as active traders. The average self-reported allocation to cryptocurrency portfolios was between 6% and 12%, demonstrating interest alongside a limited risk appetite. Investors hold an average of three tokens, suggesting a disciplined approach to diversification.
In terms of perception, 44% of respondents view cryptocurrency as an asset, while 29% see it as a tool for speculation. Social media platforms are a major source of information on crypto, with 62% of respondents citing them as their primary source. While this highlights the accessibility of information, it also raises concerns about potential misinformation.
The findings suggest that Singapore's cryptocurrency market is entering a new phase of maturity. Ownership is becoming more common, allocations remain cautious, and trust outweighs fees in platform selection. However, the report also identifies challenges, including education gaps, volatility concerns, and reliance on social media, which could create vulnerabilities. The report emphasizes the need for targeted initiatives to close knowledge gaps and reduce reliance on social media. These conditions create both opportunities and responsibilities for stakeholders to support informed participation.
The survey highlights the importance of building trust and providing reliable information to foster responsible growth in Singapore's cryptocurrency market. As the market evolves, addressing these challenges will be crucial for promoting wider adoption and ensuring investor protection.
