Family offices cheer MAS’ new precious metals rules, but do not expect a gold rush

Industry players say higher holdings of physical precious metals can supercharge Singapore’s gold hub ambitions

Published Tue, Aug 25, 2026 · 08:44 PM
    • Historical portfolio allocation to gold among family offices generally ranges from 5 to 10%, notes a market player.
    • Historical portfolio allocation to gold among family offices generally ranges from 5 to 10%, notes a market player. PHOTO: YEN MENG JIIN, BT

    [SINGAPORE] When gold prices hit a record high of around US$5,500 an ounce in January, certain family offices and fund managers were forced to reduce their holdings in order to continue enjoying tax incentives. 

    Since Aug 1, they have no longer faced such a constraint.

    The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) announced the removal of the 5 per cent cap on holdings of physical precious metals for investment funds and family offices who come under the Section 13O and Section 13U tax-exemption schemes.