The First App in Singapore to Pay Guaranteed 3% p.a. on Shares & ETFs—and Why It Could Redefine How We Invest

You’ve heard of high-yield savings accounts and fixed deposits. They’re safe, familiar, and a go-to for many Singaporeans who want their money to “do something” without taking too much risk.

But as the cost of living keeps climbing, even the most disciplined savers are realising that safety alone isn’t enough. Your money may be secure in the bank, but it’s not exactly growing.

That’s why more investors today are looking for something different. A way to earn steady income while staying invested for long-term growth. 

Enter IG Markets, a brand new share-dealing app designed to do exactly that. It’s the first in Singapore to pay 3% per annum interest on your shares and ETFs, on top of your regular market returns.

In this article, we’ll break down what makes this 3% feature different, how it compares with traditional options like fixed deposits and stocks, and why it could be a smarter way to stay invested for growth.

[ms-toc title="The First App in Singapore to Pay Guaranteed 3% p.a. on Shares & ETFs—and Why It Could Redefine How We Invest"]

What is the modern investor’s dilemma?

For many Singaporeans, finding the right balance between safety and growth feels like a never-ending puzzle.

Take Jonathan, for example.

Meet Jonathan

He’s a 35-year-old who’s been diligently saving every month. After years of discipline, he’s built up S$50,000 in cash and he’s planning on investing one of two ways.

*Illustrative range based on typical market movement. Actual returns vary.

So… Jonathan’s choices?

A safe but modest S$1,000 gain, or a roller-coaster that could add S$3,000… or erase it.

He, like most young Singaporean investors, are looking for something steadier—a way to earn consistent returns while staying invested for growth.

Here’s a smarter way to stay invested

A middle ground now exists. And it’s closer to the way most of us actually want to invest.

IG markets doesn’t make you pick between safety and growth.

It’s a new share-dealing app that gives investors 3% per annum interest on their share and ETF holdings (up to S$50,000 in shareholdings)—on top of regular market returns and dividends.

Here’s the part that stands out:

• You don’t need to lock up your funds for months
• You don’t need to guess when to sell
• You just need to stay invested, and IG Markets rewards you for doing exactly that

Interest is paid out monthly, so you can see your progress add up in real time. All it takes is one qualifying trade a month. 

Here’s what that could look like for someone like Jonathan:

All figures shown are for illustrative purposes only. Actual returns may vary based on market conditions and qualifying criteria.

So while Jonathan’s fixed deposit might take a year to show modest returns, or his stock picks might swing up and down, his IG Markets account could be quietly earning in the background—every month.

Why this 3% p.a. matters

Traditionally, investors only earn when stock prices rise or when companies pay dividends.

That means your money only “works” when markets do, and that can be stressful in uncertain times.

But this 3% interest on shares concept changes the equation. 

By paying interest on your share and ETF holdings, IG Markets turns “holding” into a source of steady income. Even when markets are quiet, you’re still earning.

Of course, peace of mind matters too. That’s why the IG Markets platform is operated by IG Asia, which is regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and backed by over 50 years of global expertise from its parent company, IG Group—a trusted name in trading and investing.

You’ll also get commission-free trading, access to global markets (US, UK, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Japan), and the flexibility to start small with fractional shares from just S$1.

What’s the catch?

You’ll only earn interest on shares and ETFs—not on the cash sitting in your brokerage account—when you make at least one qualifying trade each month. This refers to one buy or sell of eligible shares or ETFs on the IG Markets app within the same month. Transfers of shares from other brokers will not qualify.

IG Markets is looking for investors who trade on their platform and stay active with them on their wealth-building journey. You’re eligible to earn interest with any shares you buy, no matter the amount. Even if you start with just $1, you can enjoy these perks as long as you make at least one trade a month.

Get up to S$268 in cash rewards when you start with IG markets

If earning 3% interest on your shares and ETFs isn’t enough of a reason to get started, IG Markets has made the deal even sweeter.

New users can earn up to S$268 in cash rewards,  just by opening and funding an account through MoneySmart.

That’s up to S$268 in total rewards, even before you even start earning 3% per annum on your holdings.

And with interest paid monthly, your investments can start working for you sooner than you think.

This post was written in collaboration with IG Markets. While we are financially compensated by them, we nonetheless strive to maintain our editorial integrity and review products with the same objective lens. We are committed to providing the best information in order for you to make personal financial decisions with confidence.

IG provides an execution-only service. The information in this article is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute (and should not be construed as containing) any form of financial or investment advice or an investment recommendation or an offer of or solicitation to invest or transact in any financial instrument. Nor does the information take into account the investment objective, financial situation, or particular need of any person. Where in doubt, you should seek advice from an independent financial adviser regarding the suitability of your investment, under a separate arrangement, as you deem fit.

No responsibility is accepted by IG for any loss or damage arising in any way (including due to negligence) from anyone acting or refraining from acting as a result of the information. All forms of investment carry risks.

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

This post was written in collaboration with IG Markets. While we are financially compensated by them, we nonetheless strive to maintain our editorial integrity and review products with the same objective lens. We are committed to providing the best information in order for you to make personal financial decisions with confidence.

Having been writing for a little over 10 years, KC has flexed his pen in a variety of industries—think automotive, fitness, entertainment, and finance. He’s ultimately on a mission to prove that any topic, no matter how serious, can be made fun.

Off-duty? It’s all about food, drinks, parties, and gaming marathons.