APAC Compliance Solutions - Waystone

      APAC Compliance Solutions

      Our APAC compliance solutions help businesses navigate the evolving regulatory landscape across Singapore and Hong Kong. With specialist expertise in regulatory compliance and risk management, we support firms in meeting the requirements of Monetary Authority of Singapore (“MAS”) and the Securities and Futures Commission (“SFC”) with confidence.
      Call our APAC team directly at

      +65 6911 3690

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      Waystone is a global regulatory compliance consultancy providing outsourced compliance services across Singapore, Hong Kong, the Middle East, the US, Europe and the Cayman Islands. Our APAC Compliance team of over 100 compliance specialists delivers licensing and registration, AML/KYC frameworks, risk management, compliance audits, and ongoing compliance support to asset managers, financial institutions, and corporate clients, drawing on more than 25 years of experience in the Asia-Pacific region.

      We provide outsourced APAC compliance advisory services to asset managers, financial institutions, and multinational corporations operating in Singapore and Hong Kong.

      Risk-Focused Compliance Solutions for Singapore and Hong Kong

      Our Singapore and Hong Kong teams are well-equipped to provide clients with bespoke, risk-focused, and cost-effective compliance solutions. Our wide-ranging experience in the Asia-Pacific region provides the local knowledge and global perspective you need whilst adding value to your corporate governance standards. As an outsourced compliance service provider, Waystone can deliver all the compliance support services required to operate in Singapore and Hong Kong.

      End-to-End Compliance Support Services

      We can assist your firm in the following ways, though not limited to:

      • Monetary Authority of Singapore (“MAS”) and Securities and Futures Commission (“SFC”) licensing and registration
      • outsourced compliance support
      • policy drafting support
      • compliance audits and mock inspection services
      • Anti-Money Laundering (“AML”) and Know Your Client (“KYC”) support
      • vendor and employee due diligence services
      • compliance trainings.

      Technology-Driven Regulatory Monitoring

      Waystone’s APAC compliance team uses regulatory monitoring tools to track evolving requirements from MAS, SFC, and other regional bodies across multiple APAC jurisdictions, reducing the risk of compliance blind spots for asset managers and financial institutions operating across borders. Our cyber advisory services help firms align their IT and data governance frameworks with local regulatory mandates, including MAS Technology Risk Management Guidelines.

      Why Choose Waystone

      Waystone is a global regulatory compliance consultancy with over 100 compliance specialists worldwide and more than 25 years of experience. As the world of asset management and financial services becomes increasingly complex, effective compliance management is essential to mitigate risks and ensure long-term success. Partnering with an experienced advisor like Waystone is key to navigating these regulatory challenges and achieving your investment goals with confidence.

      We’ve developed a comprehensive range of specialist compliance services, specifically tailored for the APAC market and beyond. With dedicated compliance teams based in Singapore and Hong Kong and a client base spanning start-ups seeking initial MAS or SFC registration to established asset managers requiring ongoing compliance programmes, Waystone brings local regulatory knowledge and global best-practice standards to every APAC engagement.

      To discuss your firm’s regulatory needs or learn more about our Asia-Pacific compliance solutions, contact our APAC Compliance Solutions team.

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      APAC Solutions Guide

      Waystone APAC Solutions offer a comprehensive range of regulatory services, including compliance, risk, governance and administration, tailored to the Singapore and Hong Kong markets. Learn more about how Waystone can help you navigate the complexities of regulatory requirements and the evolving landscape of asset management.

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      Our APAC Regulatory Compliance Services

      Licensing & Registration Support Services

      Licensing & Registration in Singapore

      At Waystone, our team of experienced compliance professionals has a deep understanding of the licensing and registration requirements set by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (“MAS”). We follow the process meticulously and assist clients from initial business set up to maintaining all ongoing regulated activities.

      Setting Up a Fund Management Company in Singapore

      This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the benefits and key requirements of setting up a fund management company (FMC) in Singapore.

      Payment Services Act

      The Payment Services Act (“PSA”) came into effect in Singapore on 28 January 2020 and streamlines the payment services regulatory framework under a single piece of legislation.

      Licensing & Registration in Hong Kong

      At Waystone, our team of experienced compliance professionals has a deep understanding of the licensing and registration requirements set by the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) in Hong Kong. We carefully navigate the process, assisting clients from initial business setup through to ensuring ongoing compliance with all regulatory obligations.

      Setting up a Fund Management Company in Hong Kong

      This guide outlines the key benefits and requirements for setting up a fund management company in Hong Kong, highlighting its regulatory environment and access to global markets.

      A Guide to Applying for a Type 9 SFC Licence in Hong Kong

      In Hong Kong, the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing financial markets and ensuring the integrity and stability of the financial services industry.

      Compliance Advisory Services

      Ongoing Compliance Support in Singapore and Hong Kong

      Our ongoing compliance support services help clients to objectively analyse whether they are meeting regional guidelines, industry requirements, and regulations to help them mitigate the ongoing risks of operating in Singapore and Hong Kong.

      Compliance Policy & Procedure Solutions in Singapore and Hong Kong

      Our team of APAC compliance specialists provides robust policy and procedure management solutions that safeguard organisations against legal and regulatory risks in both Singapore and Hong Kong.

      AML and KYC Compliance in Singapore and Hong Kong

      Waystone assists regulated institutions with Anti-Money Laundering (“AML”) and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (“CFT”) obligations in both Singapore and Hong Kong.

      Risk Management Solutions in Singapore and Hong Kong

      We work with organisations in both Singapore and Hong Kong to identify, build and streamline the necessary internal controls that are required to effectively manage risks.

      Regulatory Compliance Audits in Singapore and Hong Kong

      As global events and geopolitical shifts continue to happen, they introduce new risks for financial institutions (“FI”) operating in either Singapore or Hong Kong.

      Corporate Compliance Solutions in Singapore

      Our Corporate Compliance Solutions team assists clients in Singapore with all financial business processes, including incorporation, company secretarial services, and accounting and payroll to ensure tax compliance.

      Corporate Compliance Solutions in Hong Kong

      Our Corporate Compliance Solutions team assists clients in Hong Kong with all financial business processes, including incorporation, company secretarial services, and accounting and payroll to ensure tax compliance.

      SFC Market Sounding Guidelines Compliance Services

      The Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) has introduced the Hong Kong Market Sounding Guidelines, which will take effect on May 2, 2025.

      SFC Mock Inspection Services

      As the regulatory landscape for asset managers continues to evolve, ensuring your firm remains fully aligned with the Securities and Futures Commission’s (SFC) requirements has never been more crucial.

      Compliance Training, FAQs and Guides

      Compliance Training in Singapore and Hong Kong

      Waystone provides a range of corporate governance and regulatory training solutions in both Singapore and Hong Kong that include customised and interactive online courses for all levels of business stakeholders.

      Compliance FAQs

      We have provided these FAQs based on queries received from our clients and prospective clients.

      APAC Guides and Articles Available for Download

      Our key documents to assist you in navigating the ever-changing regulatory landscape in the APAC region can be found here.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      What are APAC compliance solutions and who needs them? image/svg+xml Atoms / Icons / plusExpand

      APAC compliance solutions help financial institutions meet the regulatory requirements of jurisdictions across the Asia-Pacific region. These services typically include regulatory compliance, licensing support, AML and KYC advisory, risk management, regulatory reporting, governance, and ongoing compliance monitoring.

      Asset managers, fund managers, investment advisers, fintech firms, banks, broker-dealers, and other regulated financial institutions operating in Singapore, Hong Kong, and other APAC markets can benefit from specialist compliance support. Whether you are entering a new market, expanding your operations, or strengthening your compliance framework, expert guidance can help you navigate evolving regulatory expectations and reduce operational risk.

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      What is the difference between MAS and SFC compliance requirements? image/svg+xml Atoms / Icons / plusExpand

      The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) are the primary financial regulators in Singapore and Hong Kong respectively. While both regulators promote market integrity, investor protection, and robust governance, each has its own licensing regimes, conduct standards, reporting obligations, and supervisory expectations.

      Firms operating across multiple APAC jurisdictions must ensure they understand and comply with the specific requirements applicable to each regulator.

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      How does outsourced compliance support work in Singapore and Hong Kong? image/svg+xml Atoms / Icons / plusExpand

      Outsourced compliance provides firms with access to experienced compliance professionals without the need to build a full in-house compliance function. Depending on your regulatory obligations and business model, outsourced support may include compliance monitoring, regulatory reporting, policy development, compliance testing, staff training, AML advisory, regulatory change management, and ongoing access to specialist compliance advice.

      Waystone works as an extension of your internal team, providing practical, risk-based compliance support that helps firms maintain effective governance while adapting to changing regulatory requirements in Singapore, Hong Kong, and across the wider APAC region.

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      What AML and KYC obligations apply to financial institutions in APAC? image/svg+xml Atoms / Icons / plusExpand

      Financial institutions operating in APAC are generally required to implement robust Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) frameworks in accordance with local regulatory requirements. While obligations differ by jurisdiction, firms are typically expected to perform customer due diligence, verify client identities, monitor transactions, assess money laundering and terrorist financing risks, maintain appropriate records, and report suspicious activities where required.

      Regulators such as MAS and the SFC expect firms to adopt a risk-based approach to financial crime compliance and regularly review their AML and KYC controls to ensure they remain effective.

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      How can Waystone help with MAS licensing and registration in Singapore? image/svg+xml Atoms / Icons / plusExpand

      Waystone supports firms throughout the MAS licensing and registration process, helping clients understand regulatory expectations, prepare applications, develop compliance frameworks, and establish governance arrangements that align with Singapore’s regulatory requirements.

      Our specialists provide practical guidance before, during, and after authorisation, assisting firms with compliance policies, AML frameworks, risk management, regulatory obligations, and ongoing compliance support. By combining local regulatory knowledge with global compliance expertise, Waystone helps firms establish and maintain a strong compliance foundation for operating in Singapore.

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