Singapore Exchange (SGX) is widening its ETF lineup and seeking more cross‑border partnerships as it aims to cement its role as Southeast Asia’s leading multi‑asset exchange.
Expanding ETF offerings and new product ideas
CEO Loh Boon Chye said the exchange wants to “create a wider choice” of exchange‑traded funds that span the region, cover multiple asset classes and include diverse sectors. SGX currently lists 53 ETFs, managing more than S$21 billion (US$16.4 billion) in assets.
In addition to its existing offerings, the bourse plans to launch an active ETF tracking the iEdge Singapore Next 50 Index in September. That index follows the 50 largest companies on SGX after the top 30, providing investors broader exposure to local equities.
SGX also hinted at the possibility of single‑stock or leveraged products, should market demand emerge. The move would follow its recent introduction of a physical gold ETF in March, marking the exchange’s continued push into niche fund categories.
Strategic ties with Nasdaq and the Thai market
Loh noted that SGX is deepening collaborations with other exchanges to boost fundraising activities. A recent partnership with Nasdaq will simplify eligibility for firms seeking dual listings on Singapore’s and the United States’ technology gauge.
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Another agreement with the Thai bourse will allow depository receipts of Thai‑listed firms to be issued in Singapore, expanding investment options for regional investors.
“Whether it’s an extension of Singapore depository receipts, a dual‑listing partnership or a product partnership, I think those are all possibilities,” the chief executive said.
SGX’s own performance this year highlights the timing of its expansion plans.
The exchange’s shares have risen nearly 50 percent in 2026, placing it among the top performers on the Straits Times Index. This gain follows a 33 percent surge in 2025, which was driven by regulatory measures aimed at invigorating Singapore’s stock market.
Record highs for Singapore equities have been fueled by banking stocks.
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Financial results released last week showed a 7.8 percent increase in net income to S$698 million for the year ending June, supported by higher volumes in equities, foreign‑exchange and commodities trading.
Looking ahead, SGX expects more than 50 initial public offerings in the pipeline, a notable rise from the previous year.
Loh anticipates that the number of IPOs could outpace the total for the full 2026 financial year, signaling a robust pipeline of new listings.
Overall, SGX’s strategy blends product diversification with targeted regional partnerships, aiming to sustain momentum in a market that has already benefited from strong capital inflows.