Online trading didn’t kill the remisier; it’s helping them make a comeback in S’pore

In Singapore, the role of remisiers, licensed trading representatives, has seen a resurgence despite the rise of online trading platforms. These professionals, who receive a cut of around 40% in transaction commissions, are perceived as trusted advisors who provide essential human insights that apps cannot easily offer. Tiger Brokers, Saxo Markets, Moomoo Singapore, and Syfe are among the digital brokerages recruiting and training remisiers, emphasizing their role as investment representatives who help clients navigate a data-rich market.

The shift in remisiers' value has moved from order-taking to interpretation, as AI tools now handle execution costs close to zero. While 89% of investors use digital tools for information, only 37% feel comfortable relying on AI for personalized financial advice. During market volatility, 50% of investors still prefer speaking with a human.

Studies show that 69% of young people prefer human advisers for important insurance decisions. Human representatives bring accountability, personalized context, and emotional support during market downturns, which AI cannot replicate. The profession faces a succession challenge, with two-thirds of SRS members aged 60 or above, and younger recruits are attracted by the entrepreneurial nature of the role and agency arrangements.

The government's Equity Market Development Programme (EQDP) has rekindled interest in the profession, encouraging retail participation and trading activity. However, long-term sustainability depends on consistent investor engagement over time rather than short-term market surges.