Lower fees, dedicated expertise: How retail investors can access US markets on better terms

INVESTING has never been more accessible. With a few taps, Singapore investors can buy into US stocks and exchange-traded funds (ETFs), track market moves and build portfolios across borders.

But faster access has not made investing easier to understand. For new investors, questions such as “How do I start?”, “What fees do I pay?” and “Who can I turn to for help?” still come up. Seasoned traders, meanwhile, want clarity on foreign exchange rates and any additional markups.

These questions have become more relevant as investors grow more cost-conscious and the brokerage scene becomes more competitive. Although lower fees can ease market entry, investors still value guidance, research and support.

This is where POEMS by PhillipCapital is drawing the line between simply being a digital trading platform and a full-service brokerage. Through its POEMS Cash Plus Account, investors can trade US stocks and ETFs with zero US commission, zero settlement fee and zero platform fee.

This lowers the barriers to investing, particularly for those starting with smaller sums, building their portfolios gradually or looking to invest more regularly.

Behind the platform is PhillipCapital, an integrated financial group that has been serving investors for more than 51 years and has a presence in 15 locations globally. A pioneer in Singapore’s online trading space, PhillipCapital launched POEMS in 1996, helping to bring online share trading to retail investors.

Luke Lim, managing director of Phillip Securities, the main retail brokerage division at PhillipCapital, says: “As we look to the future, we recognise that the barriers to entry for global markets must be dismantled.

“By offering zero-fee trading for the US market on our Cash Plus Account, we are combining the trust and stability of our institution with the modern pricing our clients deserve. This initiative reflects our confidence that clients stay not because of price alone, but because of trust, service and long-term partnership.”

This philosophy is reflected in POEMS by PhillipCapital’s hybrid model, which combines digital trading tools with access to investment specialists, investor centres, research and advisory support.

“Our mission is to empower Singaporeans to build long-term, intergenerational wealth,” he adds.

Why support still matters in investing

Familiarity with an app does not mean familiarity with markets. Even seasoned investors find overseas markets harder to read.

US trading involves different market hours, currency conversion and a wide range of investment products. Periods of market volatility can also raise questions about how to respond to overnight price swings and constant market news.

This is where POEMS by PhillipCapital says access to guidance and research can make a difference, particularly for investors who are building confidence and investing habits over time.

According to Kosin Tan, manager for dealing and margin marketing at Phillip Securities, one of the biggest challenges investors face today is filtering through the sheer volume of information available online.

“Investors today face information overload, making it difficult for them to distinguish generic market commentary from strategies suited to their risk profile and time horizon,” she says.

“Our guidance helps bridge that gap, particularly for goal-based investing through the Central Provident Fund, Supplementary Retirement Scheme or Regular Savings Plans.”

Even with a digital-first platform, POEMS keeps human support close at hand.

Investors can tap PhillipCapital’s network of more than 1,000 investment specialists, a 24-hour, 5.5-day hotline and a dedicated investment specialist. These specialists can help users navigate the platform, understand account features and become more familiar with their investment options.

This blend of scale, accessibility and personal support underpins POEMS’ “high-tech, high-touch” approach.

Chawla Vikramjit Singh, director and head of retail sales at Phillip Securities, explains: “On the tech front, our digital platforms deliver seamless trade execution, live pricing and advanced analytics. Our POEMS Mobile 3 app allows investors to engage directly with our market analysts.

“This is supported by initiatives such as our quarterly Strategy and Stock Picks Market Outlook sessions, which draw more than 600 physical attendees and 3,000 virtual viewers.”

Access to global investment products

While POEMS Cash Plus focuses on making US investing more accessible, the broader platform is designed to support investors as their needs evolve.

As investors gain experience, they may look to diversify beyond a single market or asset class. POEMS offers access to more than 40,000 financial products across more than 26 global exchanges, alongside research resources and trading tools within the broader PhillipCapital ecosystem. The platform is available across web, mobile and desktop.

For investors with more advanced needs, POEMS by PhillipCapital’s broader offerings include commodities, contract for difference trading, securities borrowing and lending, and funds management.

“As investor needs evolve, a hybrid ‘high-tech, high-touch’ approach is emerging as the most sustainable path forward. By combining digital capabilities with trusted guidance, accessibility, personalisation and accountability can coexist,” says Lim.

Disclaimer: This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.

Find out more about the POEMS Cash Plus Account by PhillipCapital.