This DBS Vickers Securities review explores the broker’s regulatory profile, trading infrastructure, and asset coverage across Asia-Pacific markets. Operated by Singapore’s DBS Bank Group, DBS Vickers serves institutional, corporate, and retail clients with access to equities, ETFs, and derivatives across major regional exchanges. It is widely regarded for its research-led execution and strong compliance standards.

Regulation and Safety

DBS Vickers Securities is fully licensed and regulated in multiple jurisdictions:

• Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) – CMS License
• Hong Kong Securities and Futures Commission (SFC)
• Thailand SEC and Bursa Malaysia for regional branches

Client assets are held with DBS Bank under strict segregation rules. As part of a major banking group, DBS Vickers benefits from:

• Regular compliance audits and capital adequacy supervision
• Investor protection through local schemes (e.g., SIPC equivalent in Singapore)
• Data encryption, 2FA, and secure login infrastructure

Execution Model and Trading Platforms

DBS Vickers uses a direct market access (DMA) model via its proprietary systems and exchange memberships. Execution models include:

• DMA equity execution across SGX, HKEX, Bursa, NYSE, and NASDAQ
• DMA derivatives execution with SGX and CME connectivity

Available platforms:

• DBS Vickers Online (DVO): Web platform for equities and ETFs
• DBS digibank: Integrated mobile app with banking + trading
• iOCBC OneAdvisor and iWealth (for Malaysia/HK clients): Regional variants for multi-market access

FIX API is not publicly listed, and no VPS or MT4/MT5 support is available, reflecting a focus on traditional assets rather than FX/CFD trading.

Markets and Instruments

DBS Vickers focuses on listed securities across Asia-Pacific and the US:

• Stocks – Singapore, Hong Kong, US, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand
• ETFs – Global ETFs listed on SGX, HKEX, NASDAQ, NYSE
• Options and Futures – SGX derivatives and CME contracts
• Bonds – government and corporate bonds via DBS platform

No forex trading, crypto derivatives, or leveraged CFDs are offered.

Accounts, Spreads and Leverage

DBS Vickers offers cash and margin accounts depending on client profile:

• Cash Account: T+2 settlement, no margin or borrowing
• Margin Account: 3.5% to 6.0% financing rate, subject to eligibility
• Custodian Account: Shares held under DBS nominee for global markets

No spreads or leverage apply to listed equities. Margin ratios range from 10% to 50% depending on security type and exchange.

Funding and Base Currencies

Clients can fund accounts in SGD, USD, HKD, MYR, and other regional currencies. Accepted funding methods include:

• DBS/POSB bank transfers (instant for Singapore clients)
• Telegraphic transfers for international users
• Currency conversion via FX-linked accounts

Withdrawals are processed to linked bank accounts. All transactions are protected under DBS Bank’s encrypted infrastructure.

Client Protections and Features

DBS Vickers ensures client security via:

• Bank-level cybersecurity protocols and biometric login
• Investor compensation schemes in regulated jurisdictions
• Segregation of client securities from proprietary holdings
• Access to DBS research, stock screeners, and alerts

2FA is required for all online trading accounts, and paperless statements are standard. Trading limits and compliance flags are automated under MAS rules.

Institutional and Retail Offering

DBS Vickers caters to:

• Retail clients: Self-directed equity investors and ETF traders
• Corporate accounts: SMEs, family offices, and trusts
• Institutional clients: Execution and clearing services through DBS Prime Services

Institutional services include block trade execution, corporate access, and order staging through the FIX network (by request).

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Backed by DBS Bank, Southeast Asia’s largest financial group
• Regulated by MAS, SFC, and other Tier-1 authorities
• Access to 7+ international exchanges
• Integrated banking and trading through digibank
• Strong research and portfolio tools

Cons

• No forex or CFD trading
• Higher commission fees compared to pure online brokers
• No MT4, MT5, or crypto trading support
• FIX API and algorithmic access are limited to institutional clients

Frequently Asked Questions

Is DBS Vickers regulated?

Yes, DBS Vickers is regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), the SFC in Hong Kong, and other regional regulators.

Can I trade forex or crypto with DBS Vickers?

No, DBS Vickers does not offer forex or cryptocurrency trading. It specialises in listed equities and derivatives.

What trading platforms are available?

DBS Vickers provides DBS Vickers Online (DVO), DBS digibank app, and regional platforms for multi-market access.

Is DBS Vickers suitable for retail investors?

Yes, DBS Vickers offers self-directed equity and ETF trading for retail investors with access to key Asian and US markets.

Are my funds safe with DBS Vickers?

Yes, client funds and securities are held securely by DBS Bank under regulated custodial practices and investor protection schemes.