Singapore, being a financial hub, offers rewarding compensation for certified CFAs. The CFA salary in Singapore typically ranges between SGD 60,000 and SGD 180,000 per year, depending on the level of CFA certification and years of experience. With roles in asset management, investment banking, and private equity, CFAs enjoy a growing market demand across the region.
What is Average CFA Salary in Singapore?
CFA professionals in Singapore earn high salaries due to the city’s status as a global financial centre. The average CFA salary in Singapore is around SGD 90,000 to SGD 120,000 per annum. This figure varies depending on job role, level of the CFA exam completed, and years of experience. Professionals who pass CFA Level 1 can expect lower entry-level salaries compared to those who hold a full CFA charter. Yet, even at entry-level, companies value the rigorous analytical skills gained through the CFA program.
Understanding Average Salaries Across Industries
CFA designation is highly valued across investment firms, banks, consultancy companies, and fintech startups. The financial analyst salary Singapore offers can vary significantly based on the sector.
| Sector | Average CFA Salary (SGD) |
| Asset Management | 100,000–140,000 |
| Investment Banking | 120,000–180,000 |
| Wealth Management | 80,000–110,000 |
| Financial Planning & Analysis | 70,000–100,000 |
Factors such as the size of the company, location of the job, and additional professional certifications also influence the average CFA salary in Singapore.
CFA Salary in Singapore by Level and Experience
The CFA Program consists of three levels. With each level passed, earning potential significantly improves. Candidates gain a deeper understanding of portfolio management, financial reporting, and ethics, which employers value highly.
CFA Level-Wise Salary Breakdown
Professionals who clear the CFA Level 1 are often offered junior roles such as research analyst or assistant portfolio manager. The CFA level in Singapore typically ranges from SGD 45,000 to SGD 60,000.
- On passing CFA Level 2, candidates unlock intermediate roles. The CFA Level salary in Singapore goes up to SGD 70,000 to SGD 90,000.
- After completing CFA Level 3, professionals can apply for portfolio manager or senior analyst roles. The CFA salary in Singapore usually starts at SGD 100,000 and, with experience, can exceed SGD 160,000.
- Years of work experience matter too. A fresher earns less compared to someone with 5–7 years of industry experience. A CFA fresher’s salary in Singapore is about SGD 45,000 annually.
CFA vs Non-CFA: Salary Comparison in Singapore
Employers tend to reject non-CFA candidates because CFA candidates have proven expertise in the field of investment management and finance. The CFA charter is one more asset to the resume of a candidate and equals more dollars in the paycheck.
Comparative Analysis
Two candidates with similar years of experience, one certified with CFA and the other without, are considered. The CFA-certified candidate is said to earn an average of 20-30% more than a non-CFA-certified candidate. The salary of a financial analyst in Singapore who does not have a CFA could range somewhere around SGD 70,000; on the contrary, a CFA analyst in Singapore would earn about SGD 90,000 or more in the same role.
| Job Role | Non-CFA Salary (SGD) | CFA Charterholder Salary (SGD) | % Increase with CFA |
| Financial Analyst | 55,000–70,000 | 80,000–100,000 | 30–40% |
| Investment Analyst | 65,000–85,000 | 100,000–130,000 | 40–50% |
| Portfolio Manager | 90,000–120,000 | 150,000–200,000 | 50–70% |
| Risk Manager | 75,000–95,000 | 110,000–140,000 | 35–50% |
| Equity Research Associate | 70,000–90,000 | 110,000–150,000 | 40–60% |
| Wealth Management Advisor | 60,000–80,000 | 100,000–130,000 | 40–60% |
| Corporate Finance Executive | 65,000–85,000 | 100,000–140,000 | 40–65% |
In addition, CFA certification improves promotion chances and opens global opportunities. Employers value the CFA designation salary and Singapore benefits over generic finance degrees.
Is Pursuing a CFA Worth it in Singapore?
CFA certification is a major commitment in terms of time, effort, and cost. In Singapore, this investment delivers strong returns. The city’s finance industry respects the CFA charter as a gold standard in finance.
Benefits of CFA in Singapore Job Market
The demand for CFA professionals continues to rise. Several top financial firms in Singapore—like DBS, OCBC, Standard Chartered, and global investment banks—actively seek candidates with CFA credentials. Many CFA jobs in Singapore postings specify CFA levels as a prerequisite.
The CFA course salary data for Singapore shows that professionals who hold a CFA can earn much more than those who don’t. Over time, the CFA income in Singapore consistently surpasses the salary of those with only a finance degree or diploma.
CFA Salary in Singapore: Complete Breakdown by Level
Each level of the CFA exam adds more value and leads to higher job offers. Employers often differentiate salaries based on which CFA level a candidate has completed.
| CFA Level | Typical Job Role | Salary Range (SGD) |
| Level 1 | Analyst, Research Assistant | 45,000–60,000 |
| Level 2 | Associate, Risk Analyst | 65,000–90,000 |
| Level 3 | Portfolio Manager, VP | 100,000–160,000 |
This CFA pay scale in Singapore motivates candidates to push through all three levels. Along with this, companies also factor in other qualifications and years of experience.
What Influences a CFA’s Earnings in Singapore?
Several factors determine how much a CFA earns in Singapore. The first is the number of levels completed. Next is the years of experience, followed by the type of employer.
Other Factors Affecting Salary
- Industry: Investment banking pays more than financial planning.
- Job Title: A senior manager earns more than a junior analyst.
- Location: Central business district (CBD) jobs pay higher.
- Certification: Additional certifications like CPA or FRM increase salary.
- Company Size: Global MNCs pay more than local firms.
Candidates with CFA Certification salary expectations in Singapore must consider these factors. Work ethics, networking, and continuous upskilling also influence income.
Entry-Level vs Senior-Level CFA Salary in Singapore
The pay gap between entry-level and senior CFA professionals is wide. Entry-level roles are ideal for recent CFA Level 1 and Level 2 pass-outs, while senior roles suit CFA charterholders.
Role-Based Salary Gap
| Career Stage | Example Role | Salary (SGD) |
| Entry-Level | Junior Analyst | 45,000–60,000 |
| Mid-Level | Associate/Consultant | 70,000–100,000 |
| Senior-Level | Director/VP | 130,000–180,000+ |
A CFA professional’s salary in Singapore increases drastically after 5–10 years in the industry. The CFA and earnings in Singapore jump when moving from analytical to strategic leadership roles.
CFA Salary in Singapore by Industry and Job Role
Not every CFA works in asset management. Professionals find opportunities in private equity, real estate finance, fintech, and consulting. Each of these industries offers different pay scales.
| Industry | Job Role | Avg Salary (SGD) |
| Private Equity | Investment Associate | 140,000 |
| Fintech | Risk Analyst | 90,000 |
| Commercial Banking | Credit Risk Analyst | 80,000 |
| Real Estate Finance | Investment Manager | 110,000 |
| Insurance | Portfolio Strategist | 100,000 |
This is where the CFA qualification salary in Singapore plays a crucial role. Some sectors reward CFA candidates with faster promotions and bonuses.
CFA vs MBA Salary in Singapore: Which Pays More?
Both CFA and MBA are prestigious. In Singapore, MBAs from top B-schools enjoy substantial benefits. However, CFA charterholders in specialized finance roles often surpass generalist MBA grads in compensation.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Qualification | Avg Salary (SGD) | Best Fit Roles |
| CFA | 90,000–160,000 | Investment, Portfolio Mgmt |
| MBA | 80,000–140,000 | Management, Strategy, Finance |
The CFA vs MBA salaries debate in Singapore favors CFA for finance-only roles because of the technical depth that the CFA carries. An MBA, on the other hand, performs well in leadership and multi-functional roles.
Future Outlook: Salary Growth Trends for CFA in Singapore
Increased demand is anticipated in Singapore with the expansion of the financial services sector. Personal evolution through digital banks, ESG investing, and AI-driven trading requires very skilled people in finance.
Salary Growth Expectation
Generally, the average CFA salary expectation per annum in Singapore may increase between 5 and 10 percent.
- Thus, CFA charter holders are expected to enjoy faster salary progression.
- Those who integrate CFA with technology or ESG skills would have an edge.
- Recruiters are also looking forward to CFA-accredited talent to rule the area of wealth tech, robo-advising, and green finance. The chartered financial analyst’s salary thus seems bound to rise steeply in Singapore.
CFA Salary in Singapore FAQs
- What is the average CFA salary in Singapore for Level 1?
CFA Level 1 candidates in Singapore usually earn between SGD 45,000 to 60 and0 annually, depending on the employer and job role.
- How does the CFA vs CCA salary in Singapore compare?
In Singapore, CFA holders earn more in finance roles, while CAs dominate accounting. The CFA vs. CFA salary Singapore comparison depends on the industry and function.
- What are typical cfa jobs in singapore?
Roles include research analyst, risk manager, portfolio manager, and financial consultant. These jobs often list CFA as a preferred qualification.
- What is the cfa analyst salary singapore range?
Analyst-level CFA professionals earn between SGD 70,000 to 100,000, depending on experience and sector.
- How much is the cfa designation salary singapore over time?
Over time, CFA designation increases salary by up to 30–40% compared to non-certified professionals due to specialization and credibility.
