Singapore is a popular financial gateway for Asia and beyond. Its strong infrastructure and regulatory environment has put it on the centre of the radar for many businesses coming to Asia. The range of financial services offered on this tiny island include, banking, insurance, investment banking and treasury services.
One of the strategic reasons for Singapore's success is the cost-competitive, highly skilled and international labour force in Singapore. Singapore also has an open door policy to international talent and expertise. Washington-based risk consultancy agency, Business Environment Risk Intelligence (BERI), has rated Singapore's workforce as the world's best workers since 1980. According to the IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook 2010, Singapore's labour regulations are also the most business conducive in Asia. This ecosystem of job opportunities and availability of highly skilled and dependable talents further entrenched Singapore as a regional financial hub.
Established in 1963, the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Singapore (ICPAS) is the national accountancy body that develops supports and enhances the integrity, status and interests of the profession. ICPAS is the largest professional body in Singapore and plays a defining role supporting the development of Singapore as a regional financial hub. At present, there are close to 24,000 members making their strides in businesses across all industries in Singapore and around the world. The Institute also caters for the training and professional development of its members through regular courses conducted by its training arm, the SAA Global Education (SAA-GE).
SAA Global Education, as the training arm of ICPAS, supports the national objective of developing a vibrant and relevant financial, accounting and business environment in Singapore. SAA Global Education now offers a suite of Professional Accounting and Taxation preparatory programmes that meet the needs demanded by the industry:
- ICPAS Professional Examinations
- Specialist Certificate in Taxation
- Foundations in Accounting (Preparatory Course for Certified Accounting Technician)
- Preparatory Course for Association of Chartered Certified Accountants
