The Singapore unit of IG Group (LON: IGG) has launched a new brand, called IG Markets, and is offering 3 per cent annual interest on shares and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) held on its platform, the company announced today (Friday).
Push Beyond CFDs
The move came weeks after Gavin Chia, the CEO of IG’s Singapore division, said that he plans to expand the investment platform beyond its dominant contracts for difference (CFD) offerings.
Although many investment platforms offer interest on uninvested cash, the concept of “interest on shares” is unique.
“In an environment where interest rates are softening, investors are looking for new ways to stretch their dollar,” Chia said.
However, it remains unclear how IG would benefit from offering 3 per cent interest on shares and ETFs.
The offerings, which IG did not label as promotional, will provide interest on shareholdings up to S$50,000, with no minimum sum or lock-in period. Furthermore, investors need to execute at least one trade each calendar month.
Under the new IG Markets brand, IG is offering its Singapore-based customers access to their local market, as well as major global markets, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, and Japan.
Diversifying Globally
Headquartered and listed in London, IG is diversifying from its core CFD offerings not just in Singapore but globally. One of the areas where it sees value is cryptocurrencies. The platform has started offering physical cryptocurrencies through a third-party partnership, has bought a crypto exchange licensed in Australia and Singapore, and also acquired the UK regulator’s approval to offer crypto directly in the country.
While IG’s trading revenue for the first quarter of the current financial year marginally declined, its customer base continues to rise. Interestingly, its regional revenue from the APAC and Middle East markets, despite being lucrative markets, fell by 18 per cent.
This article was written by Arnab Shome at www.financemagnates.com.
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