Introduction
Coinbase just made its first major move outside the US, and it’s landing in Singapore. The crypto exchange launched Coinbase Business in the city-state on the 12th of November, giving startups and SMEs instant access to USDC payments, global settlements, and integrated crypto finance tools. With Standard Chartered backing the infrastructure, this isn’t just another product launch. It’s Coinbase planting a flag in Asia’s booming fintech scene.
Coinbase Business Singapore: What’s On Offer?
So what exactly does Coinbase Business bring to Singaporean firms? Think of it as crypto banking for the digital age.
The platform lets businesses manage payments in USDC (a stablecoin pegged to the US dollar), automate vendor and payroll transactions, and even earn rewards on their crypto holdings. No more waiting days for cross-border payments to clear, everything happens instantly.
Real-Time Fiat Integration With Standard Chartered
Coinbase has partnered with Standard Chartered to enable seamless Singapore dollar transfers. That means businesses can move between fiat and crypto without the usual friction. Standard Chartered’s involvement also adds a layer of regulatory comfort, crucial in a market like Singapore where compliance isn’t optional.
Why Singapore? Why Now?
Singapore isn’t just another city on Coinbase’s expansion roadmap. It’s Asia’s crypto hub, with a government that’s been actively building digital asset infrastructure.
Coinbase has been working with the Monetary Authority of Singapore through the BLOOM Initiative, which focuses on next-generation payment systems and “Agentic Payments” — basically, smarter, automated settlement tools. This launch is the payoff from that groundwork.
As Coinbase’s Sid Coelho-Prabhu and Hassan Ahmed put it: “This launch is not an isolated event; it’s the latest in a series of deep commitments we’ve made to the region.”
What This Means for Crypto Adoption in Asia
Coinbase Business Singapore is a clear signal: the company sees Asia as critical to its long-term growth. And they’re not just dipping a toe in, they’re building compliant, programmable infrastructure that connects traditional finance with digital assets.
For startups and SMEs in Singapore, this could be a game-changer. Faster payments, lower fees, and the ability to operate in both fiat and crypto without jumping through hoops? That’s the kind of infrastructure that accelerates adoption.
The Bottom Line
Coinbase is betting big on Singapore and by extension, Asia. With Standard Chartered providing the banking rails and the Monetary Authority of Singapore backing digital innovation, this expansion feels less like a test run and more like a strategic anchor.
If you’re a business in Singapore exploring crypto payments or treasury management, Coinbase Business just became one of your most practical options.
Want to stay ahead of crypto and fintech trends? Bookmark our finance coverage for weekly insights.
FAQ
Q1: What is Coinbase Business Singapore?
A: It’s Coinbase’s first international business platform outside the US, offering Singaporean firms instant USDC payments, global payouts, and automated crypto treasury management tools.
Q2: How does the Standard Chartered partnership work?
A: Standard Chartered enables seamless real-time Singapore dollar transfers for Coinbase users, bridging fiat and crypto with minimal friction. This partnership supports both retail and business customers.
Q3: Why did Coinbase choose Singapore for its first international expansion?
A: Singapore is Asia’s leading fintech hub with strong regulatory frameworks and government support for digital assets. Coinbase has been working with Singapore’s Monetary Authority through the BLOOM Initiative, making it a natural first step.
Q4: Can businesses earn rewards on their USDC holdings?
A: Yes. Coinbase Business allows firms to earn rewards on USDC balances, adding a yield component to their crypto treasury management.
Q5: What does this mean for crypto adoption in Asia?
A: It signals mainstream infrastructure is arriving. When a major exchange partners with a global bank like Standard Chartered, it legitimises crypto payments and makes adoption easier for traditional businesses.
DISCLAIMER
Effective Date: 15th July 2025
The information provided on this website is for informational and educational purposes only and reflects the personal opinions of the author(s). It is not intended as financial, investment, tax, or legal advice.
We are not certified financial advisers. None of the content on this website constitutes a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any financial product, asset, or service. You should not rely on any information provided here to make financial decisions.
We strongly recommend that you:
- Conduct your own research and due diligence
- Consult with a qualified financial adviser or professional before making any investment or financial decisions
While we strive to ensure that all information is accurate and up to date, we make no guarantees about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of any content on this site.
By using this website, you acknowledge and agree that we are not responsible for any financial loss, damage, or decisions made based on the content presented.
