With the finance industry of Southeast Asia dynamically evolving, Singapore is now an eminent center for driving progression in fintech. The well-regulated environment and the forward-thinking regulator make it just the right place for any firm looking to scale up their business in a risk-averse environment. One of the most coveted resources for any fintech player today is the MPI permit that is now available for purchase.
What Is a Major Payment Institution (MPI) Licence in Singapore?
A permit enables the offering of a wide range of regulated services to customers under terms different from those applicable to smaller establishments. This includes serving agents of local money transfer, multinational money transfer services, e-money issuance, merchant acquisition, account issuance, dealing in online payment tokens, and money-changing businesses. The MPI permit thus differs from the SPI one almost entirely in volume thresholds and operational freedom. This implies that MPIs can process larger volumes of transactions, hold higher outstanding balances, and have a reach that extends to a regional or global target without any capping of limits. In this respect, the MPI permit is suited for organizations that aspire to serve a regional or global target.
Regulatory Authority and Legal Framework
MAS oversees all licensees, encompassing MPI permit holders, under the PSA Act. There are seven key payment offerings defined and regulated by the act:
- Issuance of account;
- Domestic money transfer;
- Multinational money transfer;
- Merchant acquisition;
- E-money issuance;
- Virtual payment token service;
- Money changing.
MAS also enforces abidance demands continuously through yearly audits, cybersecurity safeguards, AML/CFT checks, and periodic returns for regular reporting, among other things. Letters of responsibility or undertakings from shareholders or parent organizations may be called upon, depending on the corporate structure.
Thresholds and Capital Requirements for MPI Applicants
One of the key reasons enterprises seek MPI status is the removal of transaction thresholds. Unlike SPIs, MPIs are not limited to monthly transaction caps or e-money storage limits.
Nevertheless, MPI applicants must meet stricter capital and operational criteria, such as:
- Base capital of at least S$250000;
- Security deposit with MAS (up to S$200000 or a suitable insurance policy);
- Having an enrolled office or business premises in Singapore;
- Appointment of a fit-and-proper management team, with at least one director who is either a citizen, permanent resident, or employment pass holder;
- Implementation of robust abidance, audit, and technology risk mitigation structures.
Before the licence is granted, online services must undergo penetration testing, and all major risks must be addressed and validated.
Who Should Consider Acquiring an MPI-Licensed Entity?
Acquiring a company with Payment Institution license in Singapore for sale offers a strategic shortcut for those looking to establish a regulated presence in Asia’s most advanced fintech nation. It is ideal for:
- Online currency exchanges and platforms wishing to licitly operate in the region;
- Multinational startups looking to scale without being constrained by volume limits;
- E-wallet providers and mobile banking solutions entering the Southeast Asian market;
- Global fintech firms seeking regional headquarters in Singapore;
- Backers and holding organizations aiming to launch monetary offerings in a compliant way.
Given the complexity and rigor of the licensing process, purchasing an existing MPI entity can save up to 4–6 months of preparation and approval time.
Conclusion
Getting into the growing industry in question can be tough, but there’s now a fast-track option. By taking over a firm that already has the needed approval to run, newcomers can avoid long wait times and difficult steps. This path is great for those who want to move money, build money apps, or set up shop in a trusted and modern place. With strong rules already followed and systems in place, it’s a smart way to start strong and grow fast.