Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)

At a glance

DBS offers expert foreign direct investment (FDI) advisory services across a wide array of industries and sectors, serving a diverse clientele that includes large corporations to small-and-medium enterprises (SMEs). 

As a one-stop shop, DBS provides a comprehensive range of corporate banking solutions, wealth management, and capital market offerings. Through close collaborations with government agencies, business associations, and professional service providers, we offer integrated and tailored solutions for your business. Leverage our global network, deep local insights, and bespoke services to guide your business towards sustainable long-term performance.

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Our networks

With a global presence across 19 markets and industry-specific expertise in 14 sectors, we are the largest bank in Southeast Asia and the safest bank in all of Asia. Our extensive reach and industry knowledge empower businesses to seamlessly navigate the complexities of international expansion. While digitalisation remains a key theme, sustainability is deeply embedded in our core values. As an internationally acclaimed leader in the industry, we stand as your trusted global financial partner, ready to transform businesses and drive success. 

*According to the database from ‘Bloomberg Terminal’ dated as of 31 December 2023, DBS is the largest bank by asset in Southeast Asia.

# Safest Bank in Asia 2009 – 2023, Global Finance

 

Strong credit rating

Consistently rated “AA-” and “Aa1” by S&P and Moody’s

Robust financials

SGD 739 billion in total assets in 2023

Purpose-driven

Committed to our clients' sustainability journeys, with SGD 70 billion in sustainable financing commitments, net of repayments

Worldwide network

12.2 million clients globally, across a broad range of industries and sectors

 

Source: DBS Annual Report 2023

Our solutions

Our tailored corporate banking and digital solutions, and tailored wealth planning strategies, help clients navigate the business landscape effectively

  • Corporate Financing

    We offer a range of solutions to support your loan syndication and working capital needs.

  • Capital Markets

    We are a leader in offering global debt and equity financing through our full-service solutions.

  • Wealth Planning

    We offer tailored strategies for your succession, liquidity and legacy planning.

Our partners


DBS collaborates with a vibrant ecosystem of partners across government agencies, business associations, and professional services firms - including law firms, audit firms, human resource management companies, and company secretary providers. This extensive network allows us to offer best-in-class expertise and maximise potential for our clients by providing integrated, tailored solutions that leverage our partners' specialised capabilities.


Key initiatives
 

Latest on DBS's events

2024 Western China International Fair for Investment and Trade in Chongqing
2024 Wuxi-Singapore Enterprise Cooperation Conference
Conference on International Industrial Cooperation (Singapore) & China's Machinery and Electronics Show in Singapore

Insights
Pitfalls of an everything rally

Macro insights livestream

Pitfalls of an everything rally
Read more

Greater Bay Area outlook

Macro insights webinar

Greater Bay Area outlook
Watch now

GBA is an economic dynamo within China

Understanding China: Greater Bay Area

GBA is an economic dynamo within China
Read more

S’pore’s reputation as a regional technology hub

Semiconductor: Singapore - Beneficiary of China+1

S’pore’s reputation as a regional technology hub
Read more

Pitfalls of an everything rally

Macro insights livestream

Pitfalls of an everything rally
Read more

Greater Bay Area outlook

Macro insights webinar

Greater Bay Area outlook
Watch now

GBA is an economic dynamo within China

Understanding China: Greater Bay Area

GBA is an economic dynamo within China
Read more

S’pore’s reputation as a regional technology hub

Semiconductor: Singapore - Beneficiary of China+1

S’pore’s reputation as a regional technology hub
Read more

Awards
Safest Bank Award Safest Bank in Asia, 2009-2023

Global Finance

Safest Bank Award
Safest Bank in Asia, 2009-2023

Awards for Excellence

Euromoney

Awards for Excellence
Best Bank for Corporate Responsibility, Global, 2023

Sustainable Finance Awards Best Bank for Sustainable Finance 2024

The Asset

Sustainable Finance Awards
Best Bank for Sustainable Finance 2024

Financial Adviser of the Year, APAC, 2020 & 2022

IJGlobal

Financial Adviser of the Year, APAC, 2020 & 2022

Safest Bank Award Safest Bank in Asia, 2009-2023

Global Finance

Safest Bank Award
Safest Bank in Asia, 2009-2023

Awards for Excellence

Euromoney

Awards for Excellence
Best Bank for Corporate Responsibility, Global, 2023

Sustainable Finance Awards Best Bank for Sustainable Finance 2024

The Asset

Sustainable Finance Awards
Best Bank for Sustainable Finance 2024

Financial Adviser of the Year, APAC, 2020 & 2022

IJGlobal

Financial Adviser of the Year, APAC, 2020 & 2022

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is foreign direct investment (FDI) and what are the activities associated with it?

Foreign direct investment (FDI) is an investment from an entity in one country into a business or corporation in another country, with the intention of establishing a lasting relationship or interest. This could come in the form of an acquisition of a substantial stake in a foreign business, or an outright purchase of a company as a means to expand into a new market and develop a multinational presence.

What are the risks associated with FDI activities?

As with any kind of investment, FDI activities carry with them a certain level of risk. 

Given the international nature of FDI, investors may face financial risks because of high transaction costs, sudden currency volatility, or third-party intermediaries. In foreign markets – especially those in emerging economies – investors may also face liquidity risks, or risks posed by political instability.  

What FDI products are available at DBS?

We offer a wide range of products and services for clients to begin engaging in FDI activities, including advisory and platform-based solutions. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your business goals.

Why is Singapore a prime location for FDI?

Singapore stands as a global business hub, renowned for its innovation, reliability, and stability. The nation offers a business-friendly climate, supported by strong legal and regulatory frameworks along with attractive tax policies, making it straightforward for both corporations and individuals to conduct business. As a highly regarded regional treasury centre (RTC), Singapore serves as an optimal platform for global expansion.

Singapore is also one of the largest offshore clearing centres for renminbi (RMB) and maintains large trade volumes with its ASEAN neighbours, outperforming other hubs in Asia. 

Learn more about Reminbi Solutions.

Has the Singapore government implemented any initiatives to support FDI growth in the country?

In Singapore, the government has introduced a range of measures to foster FDI. These include incentives from the Economic Development Board of Singapore (EDB), tax exemptions, grants for research and development (R&D) and permits for technology professionals.

What rules apply to Singapore FDI?

Although Singapore widely welcomes foreign investment, it is governed by specific regulations and restrictions. Sectors considered sensitive to public or national security, including media and real estate, may face FDI limitations. Meanwhile, industries such as professional services, banking, and telecommunications might be regulated through licensing requirements.

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