Breaking: Binance Applying Crypto Services License In Singapore, But There’s A Catch

Binance applying a license in Singapore to offer crypto custody services to corporate clients in Singapore.
By Varinder Singh
Updated May 12, 2025
Binance Switches To Multiple Stablecoins, Discontinues Auto-Conversion Policy

The world’s largest crypto exchange Binance seeks to re-enter Singapore’s crypto hub after completely winding up its crypto trading operations in February last year.

Binance’s custody arm Ceffu to apply for the Capital Markets Service license with the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) to offer crypto custody services to corporate clients in Singapore. Binance recently renamed Binance Custody to Ceffu, taking inspiration from Binance’s Secure Asset Fund for Users (SAFU).

Commenting on the demand from institutional investors in Singapore, Athena Yu, vice president at Ceffu, said:

“Given the city’s reputation in innovation, good corporate governance and a strong regulatory framework, it’s no surprise that institutional investors are attracted to set up shop here.”

Singapore was a major market for Binance, but regulatory pressure from the MAS caused the crypto exchange to exit the market. The MAS didn’t renew Binance’s license in December 2021 as the crypto exchange failed to make the required changes as per the regulator. Jarek Jakubcek, head of law enforcement training at Binance, said the company has made several changes since then in order to meet regulators’ directives.

“If you take a look at recent hirings, you will see that Binance is hiring people with years of experience in law enforcement and regulations, he told Nikkei Asia.

Advertisement
Advertisement

Binance Seeks License in Singapore Amid Regulatory Crackdown in the U.S.

Similar to facing stringent regulatory pressure in Singapore, Binance is facing regulatory pressure in the U.S. due to heightened scrutiny following the collapse of FTX. Binance’s U.S. arm has been targeted by regulators, opposing the acquisition of bankrupt crypto lender Voyager Digital’s assets.

The U.S. SEC’s regulatory crackdown against crypto caused Binance to sever ties with its partners in the U.S., stopping Binance USD (BUSD) use for crypto trading, and impacting crypto staking services.

Also Read: Sam Bankman-Fried Proposes Consultants in Bail Restrictions Appeal

Advertisement
Varinder Singh
Varinder has over 10 years of experience and is known as a seasoned leader for his involvement in the fintech sector. With over 5 years dedicated to blockchain, crypto, and Web3 developments, he has experienced two Bitcoin halving events making him key opinion leader in the space. At CoinGape Media, Varinder leads the editorial decisions, spearheading the news team to cover latest updates, markets trends and developments within the crypto industry. The company was recognized as Best Crypto Media Company 2024 for high impact and quality reporting. Being a Master of Technology degree holder, analytics thinker, technology enthusiast, Varinder has shared his knowledge of disruptive technologies in over 5000+ news, articles, and papers.
Why trust CoinGape: CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights to our readers. Our journalists and analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.