Singapore Dollar

(

SGD

) Overview

History, value and economic impact

Country/Region
Singapore
Regulated by
Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS)
Symbol
S$

Introduction to the

SGD

currency

The Singapore Dollar (SGD), S$, is Singapore's official currency and a critical element of the nation's economic framework. Introduced in 1967, it replaced the Malaya and British Borneo dollar following Singapore's independence and has since become one of the world's most stable and widely respected currencies.

The SGD is divided into 100 cents and is available in coin and note forms. It features iconic Singaporean symbols like the Merlion, the country's symbolic lion-headed fish.

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) is responsible for issuing and managing the currency, ensuring its stability through a carefully crafted exchange rate policy that pegs the SGD against a basket of currencies rather than just one.

As a leading global financial hub, Singapore's economy is intricately linked with international trade and finance, making the SGD a key player in global forex markets. Singapore's strong economic fundamentals, including its high GDP per capita, low inflation, and robust financial regulatory framework, support the currency's stability and strength.

This makes the SGD a preferred currency for investors and traders seeking a stable and reliable store of value.

Economic overview
of the

Singapore Dollar

The Singapore Dollar (SGD) is known for its stability and strength, reflecting Singapore’s well-managed economy. The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) uses a unique exchange rate policy by managing the SGD against a basket of currencies instead of pegging it to a single one.

This approach allows Singapore to maintain price stability and control inflation, which is essential for its small, open economy.

Current Economic Status of Countries Using SGD

The value of the Singapore Dollar is influenced by various economic factors, including Singapore’s GDP growth rate, inflation rate, and interest rates. As a financial hub in Southeast Asia, Singapore’s robust economy makes the SGD a reliable currency for local and international transactions.

Key Economic Indicators Affecting the Currency's Value

The SGD is traded on the foreign exchange market against other currencies, forming pairs with the USD and EUR. Singapore's monetary policy, GDP growth, and overall economic stability influence the SGD's value.

International organisations, such as the International Monetary Fund, closely monitor the SGD’s performance in the global market.

Historical performance of

SGD

Since its introduction, the Singapore Dollar (SGD) has appreciated against major global currencies, driven by Singapore’s strong economic fundamentals and prudent monetary policies.

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has consistently updated the currency with new designs and enhanced security features to prevent counterfeiting and maintain its integrity.

The currency’s historical performance demonstrates Singapore’s economic resilience, with the SGD maintaining stability even during global financial crises. Its value reflects Singapore’s strategic role in international trade and finance, positioning the SGD as a significant currency in the global forex market.

Significant events such as economic downturns, global financial crises, and regional economic developments have impacted the value of the SGD. The MAS's monetary policy decisions and Singapore’s role in global trade have been crucial in shaping the SGD's trajectory in the foreign exchange market. International organisations and forex traders closely monitor the SGD's performance.

Past 1 year
performance for
SGD
0.22%
1 Year

Current rate
S$
1 =
105.375
GBP
AED

Factors Influencing the Singapore Dollar (SGD)

Internal factors affecting
Singapore Dollar
  • Monetary policies
  • The economic health of Singapore
  • Political stability within the country 

External factors affecting
Singapore Dollar
  • Global market trends 
  • Regional economic conditions

Singapore’s position as a global financial centre means that the SGD is often influenced by international events and market sentiments, adding another layer of complexity to its valuation. 

The interplay of these factors creates a dynamic environment where the value of the SGD is constantly being adjusted to reflect both domestic economic conditions and global economic trends.

The MAS’s effective management of these influences ensures that the SGD remains a solid and stable currency in the international financial system. 

Investment and trading information for

SGD

Investment and trading information about the Singapore Dollar (SGD) is vital for investors and traders looking to capitalise on its movements in the forex market. The SGD is Singapore's official currency and a significant financial hub in Southeast Asia.

The SGD shows stability in the forex market, with fluctuations influenced by factors such as Singapore's monetary policy, regional economic conditions, and global trade dynamics. Here are some tips for investors and traders:

  • Trading the SGD during the Asian trading session can offer optimal liquidity and price movements.
  • From an investment perspective, the SGD can provide diversification benefits in international portfolios due to its stable currency pairings with major currencies like the USD, EUR, and JPY.
  • The SGD is widely used in regional transactions and remittances, reflecting its importance as a key currency in Asia and the global financial landscape.

Travel and exchange information

When travelling to Singapore, it's essential to be familiar with the official currency, the Singapore Dollar (SGD), with the currency code SGD and symbol S$.

Here are some exchange tips to keep in mind when travelling to Singapore:

  • The Singapore Dollar is widely accepted across Singapore, including retail outlets, restaurants, and tourist attractions.
  • Exchange your money at authorised exchange centres or banks for the best rates. Avoid airports or hotels, as they may offer less favourable rates.
  • Check the current SGD exchange rate before converting your currency, and use reputable online platforms or financial apps to monitor rates.
  • ATMs are readily available and typically accept international debit and credit cards, but be aware of potential withdrawal fees from your bank and the ATM operator.
  • The SGD is accepted in Brunei due to a currency interchangeability agreement, but when travelling to nearby countries like Malaysia or Indonesia, SGD is exchanged for the local currency.
  • Singapore widely uses digital payment platforms and contactless payments. Some SGD is carried in cash for smaller transactions or public transport, but credit cards are also commonly used.

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