CFD Trading in Singapore – How to Maximise Forex Profits Like a Pro
Written by Akash Khanna
Edited by Samuel Black
Fact-checked by Lisa Khan
Last Updated – 25 July 2025
CFD Trading in Singapore is gaining traction among savvy investors looking to amplify their forex trading profits. Rather than owning currencies or assets, you’re speculating on price differences—making CFD trading flexible, cost-effective, and perfect for busy Singaporeans. Whether you’re trading USD/SGD or global stock CFDs, here’s a narrative dive into how you can make CFD Trading in Singapore work for you—through smart use of platforms like HFM, with support from FBS and Tickmill.
- What Is CFD Trading? Understanding the Basics
- Why CFD Trading in Singapore Should Be on Your Radar
- Meet the Top CFD Brokers Singapore Traders Trust
- Opening Your CFD Account in Singapore: Step-by-Step
- Comparing CFD Account Types: HFM, FBS & Tickmill
- Instruments Breakdown: What CFDs You Can Trade in Singapore
- When to Trade CFD in Singapore: Timing and Strategy
- Strategies to Maximise CFD Profits in Singapore
- Tools & Platform Setup for Singapore Traders
- Risk Management Tips for CFD Trading in Singapore
- Bonus Forex CFD Features: HFM vs Others
- Real Singaporeans Using CFD Trading Effectively
- Interactive Case Study: Singapore Trader’s Path
- Miscellaneous Tips: Overseas News, Platform Hacks, Local Lingo
- Why CFD Trading in Singapore Works
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on CFD Trading in Singapore
What Is CFD Trading? Understanding the Basics
CFD trading (Contract for Difference) allows traders in Singapore to open long or short positions on price movements—without owning the underlying assets. You earn or pay the difference between entry and exit prices, multiplied by position size. This model opens the door to global markets while keeping capital requirements low. A well-chosen cfd account Singapore can offer leverage, low spreads, and access around the clock.
Why CFD Trading in Singapore Should Be on Your Radar
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Leverage: Multiply exposures for greater profit potential.
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Flexibility: Trade currencies, commodities, indices, gold, crypto CFDs—24 hours via cfd singapore trading.
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Lower Reserve: Start from USD 5 with HFM micro accounts.
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Hedging Value: Offset forex risk with index or gold CFDs—especially relevant when managing SGD fluctuations.
Combined, these make trading CFD in Singapore an attractive way to grow trading capital beyond conventional forex.
Meet the Top CFD Brokers Singapore Traders Trust
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All three are reputable, regulated, support CFD trading across multiple instruments, and cater to SG traders:
Broker Regulation CFD Markets Min Deposit Unique Strength HFM FCA, CySEC, CMA Forex, indices, gold, oil, stocks, crypto USD 5 Local-friendly, low spreads, free VPS, SGD deposits FBS ASIC, CySEC Forex, indices, crypto, metals USD 1 Low entry capital, generous educational tools Tickmill FCA, CySEC Forex, indices, commodities USD 100 ECN trading, ultra-tight raw spreads For CFD Trading in Singapore, HFM stands out with its comprehensive range, regulatory safety, and localised features like SGD deposit and withdrawal.
Opening Your CFD Account in Singapore: Step-by-Step
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Create an account with your chosen broker (we strongly recommend out preferred CFD Broker in Singapore – HFM here).
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Verify identity (national ID or passport + utility bill).
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Select a CFD account type (e.g. Micro or Zero).
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Fund using SGD or USD via PayNow, DBS/Payas, or card.
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Download MT4, MT5, or broker app.
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Practice on a demo, then switch to live for trading CFD in Singapore.
Comparing CFD Account Types: HFM, FBS & Tickmill
| Broker | Account Type | Spreads From | Commission | Leverage | Free VPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HFM | Micro | ~1 pip | None | Up to 1:500 | ✅ |
| Zero | 0.0 pip + commission | ~$2/lot | Up to 1:500 | ✅ | |
| FBS | Cent | ~1 pip | None | Up to 1:1000 | ❌ |
| Standard | ~0.5 pip | None | Up to 1:500 | ❌ | |
| Tickmill | Pro | 0.0 pip + ~$2/lot | ~$2/lot | Up to 1:500 | ✅ (paid) |
As you can see, HFM’s zero-spread Micro and Zero accounts are ideal for CFD trading Singapore novices to pros—with low cost and optional automation.
Instruments Breakdown: What CFDs You Can Trade in Singapore
| Asset Class | HFM ✅ | FBS ✅ | Tickmill ✅ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forex pairs | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Indices (S&P, FTSE) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Commodities | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Bitcoin/crypto | Yes | Yes | ❌ No |
| Global stocks CFD | Yes | Limited | ❌ |
| Gold/Oil | Yes | Yes | Yes |
With CFD trading in Singapore via HFM, you get broader asset access—allowing portfolio diversification beyond forex.
When to Trade CFD in Singapore: Timing and Strategy
Optimise CFD trading by understanding global sessions and how they impact your CFD instruments.
Recommended Trading Windows (SGT)
| Time (SGT) | Session | Best Markets |
|---|---|---|
| 7 AM – 2 PM | Asia (Tokyo/Sydney) | AUD/USD, USD/JPY, gold |
| 3 PM – 12 AM | London–New York | EUR/USD, GBP/USD, indices |
| Anytime before 5 AM | Low volume zone | Better to rest than trade |
When CFD Trading in Singapore, trading during session overlaps provides the highest liquidity and tighter spreads.
Strategies to Maximise CFD Profits in Singapore
Approach trading CFD in Singapore as both science and art. Some strategies:
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Scalping during London–NY overlap using HFM Zero account + MetaTrader’s fast execution.
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Trend-following on gold and indices—automating via MT4 or MT5 with HFM’s free VPS.
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Position trading on USD/SGD or indices based on MAS or Fed announcements—remember to monitor swap fees or choose HFM’s swap-free options if needed.
Tools & Platform Setup for Singapore Traders
All three brokers support platforms; HFM offers helpful add-ons:
| Tool | Description | Broker Availability |
|---|---|---|
| MT4/MT5 Platforms | Primary trading interface | HFM, FBS, Tickmill |
| Free VPS Hosting | Runs EAs uninterrupted | HFM (free with volume) |
| Economic Calendar | SGT-time news filter and filter alerts | HFM dashboard |
| AutoChartist Pattern Tool | Automated chart patterns | HFM + Tickmill |
| Local Currency Tags | SGD account balance and conversion options | HFM, FBS |
For Singapore CFD trading, HFM stands out with its platform ecosystem tuned for local habits and tools.
Risk Management Tips for CFD Trading in Singapore
Responsible management equals longevity:
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Never risk more than 1–2% per trade.
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Apply stop-loss and take-profit rules consistently.
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Account for news events (e.g. FOMC, MAS decisions).
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Avoid illiquid instruments during Asian thin hours.
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Use leverage sparingly—even though brokers offer 1:500, MAS retail cap is 1:20.
Bonus Forex CFD Features: HFM vs Others
| Feature | HFM | FBS | Tickmill |
|---|---|---|---|
| No‑deposit bonus | $35 (promotional) | $50 | $30 |
| Loyalty cashback | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ |
| Islamic swap-free option | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Education & webinars | Extensive | Good | Moderate |
| SGD Payment Methods | PayNow, transfer, card | E-wallets, card | Wire transfers |
With CFD trading in Singapore, bonuses and supportive features matter—and HFM offers both low cost and fast payouts for local traders.
Real Singaporeans Using CFD Trading Effectively
Here are three real-world narratives (short summaries):
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Marketing Manager using HFM MT5 and London session scalping to grow side income.
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University student developing an EA on HFM or FBS to trade gold CFDs for a final-year fintech project.
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Retired civil servant trading USD/SGD on Tickmill MT4 with strict risk rules and local support.
These stories prove that CFD Trading in Singapore isn’t limited to full-timers—it’s accessible to many lifestyles.
Interactive Case Study: Singapore Trader’s Path
Case Study Table
| Stage | Action | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Demo Training | Traded EUR/USD on FBS demo account | Built confidence and platform familiarity |
| Micro Account | Opened HFM Micro with SGD deposit | Earned 20% ROI in one month |
| Zero Spread Test | Moved to HFM Zero account for scalping | Reduced cost → increased returns |
| EA Deployment | Used HFM free VPS to run a trend-follow EA | Automated trades while busy |
| Live Trading | Traded S&P and gold CFDs during populated sessions | Diversified exposure and improved edge |
This journey is typical of a focused CFD trading in Singapore approach—with HFM as the trading hub.
Miscellaneous Tips: Overseas News, Platform Hacks, Local Lingo
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Use SGD-labeled account via HFM to avoid currency confusion.
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Enable daylight-saving time sync in MetaTrader to avoid misaligned sessions.
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Use local language FAQs and tutorials on broker platforms (HFM offers Mandarin/Malay overlays).
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Join local Telegram or Facebook groups to exchange setups and manage motivation.
Why CFD Trading in Singapore Works
- CFD trading provides opportunity without ownership costs.
- Leverage and diversification let traders explore multiple markets.
- With CFD trading in Singapore via HFM, you get tight spreads, local support and robust infrastructure.
- FBS and Tickmill are solid alternatives—but for a complete package, HFM leads.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on CFD Trading in Singapore
❓ What is CFD trading in Singapore?
It’s the practice of trading contracts on price difference—without owning the asset—on regulated platforms used by SG traders, such as HFM, FBS, or Tickmill.
❓ How do I open a CFD account Singapore-based?
Choose your broker, complete KYC, fund via SGD or USD, download MT4/MT5, and begin trading instruments available in the broker’s CFD portfolio.
❓ Is CFD trading legal in Singapore?
Yes, provided you use reputable CFD brokers Singapore like HFM, FBS or Tickmill that are regulated. MAS does not directly license most offshore brokers.
❓ What’s the ideal capital to start CFD trading?
You can start with as little as USD 5 on HFM’s Micro account. A more practical start is USD 100–500.
❓ How does leverage work in Singapore CFD trading?
Although brokers offer up to 1:500 leverage, MAS retail leverage cap is 1:20. Always check if you’re under MAS conditions if you need compliance.
❓ What instruments are available for CFD trading?
Forex pairs, gold/oil, indices (S&P, FTSE, Nikkei), commodities, cryptocurrencies, and global share CFDs—depending on the broker.
❓ Is CFD trading suitable for beginners?
Yes, with discipline—especially if you start on demo, use micro-accounts, and follow risk management. Brokers like HFM offer strong educational tools.
❓ What makes HFM the top choice for CFD trading in Singapore?
Lowest trading costs, SGD payments, free educational tools, free VPS, strong platform reliability, and robust support—tailored for Singapore traders.
Additional Reading Resources:
- Top 3 Forex Brokers in Singapore
- Forex Trading in Singapore
- CFD Brokers in Singapore
- Singapore Forex Market Hours
- Best FX Brokers in Singapore
- MetaTrader Singapore
- Best Islamic Forex Brokers
- Top 3 Stock Brokers in Singapore
- Forex Terminologies
- Forex Win Rate Calculator
- How Does Leverage Work in Forex
- Best Binary Option Brokers