
DBS Bank of Singapore's leadership and operations are built on a strong foundation of innovation and customer-centricity. The bank's CEO, Piyush Gupta, has been instrumental in driving this vision, with a focus on digital transformation and sustainability.
The bank's operations are designed to be efficient and customer-friendly, with a wide range of services available online and through mobile apps. This includes online banking, mobile banking, and a range of digital payment solutions.
One key aspect of DBS's operations is its use of technology to improve customer experience. The bank has invested heavily in artificial intelligence and machine learning, using these technologies to personalize customer interactions and improve the overall banking experience.
DBS's commitment to innovation is evident in its numerous awards and recognition, including being named the World's Best Bank by Euromoney in 2020.
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About DBS
DBS Bank was established in 1968 by the Government of Singapore, making it a reliable and innovative banking option in the country.

As of 31 March 2023, Temasek owns 29% of DBS shares, indicating a strong partnership between the bank and Singapore's second-largest sovereign wealth fund.
DBS Bank has earned the Global Finance's "Safest Bank in Asia" accolade for fifteen consecutive years, from 2009 to 2023, demonstrating its commitment to financial stability.
The bank has also been recognized for its digital innovation, being awarded the Best Digital Bank in the World in 2016 by Euromoney.
Overview
DBS was officially incorporated by the Government of Singapore on 16 July 1968 to take over the industrial financing responsibilities of the Economic Development Board (EDB).
DBS has a strong and reliable capital position, earning it a "AA−" and "Aa1" credit ratings by Standard & Poor's and Moody's, which are among the highest in the Asia-Pacific region.
The bank's largest and controlling shareholder is Temasek Holdings, Singapore's second-largest sovereign wealth fund after GIC, owning 29% of DBS shares as of 31 March 2023.

DBS has consistently demonstrated its financial stability, earning the Global Finance's "Safest Bank in Asia" accolade for fifteen consecutive years, from 2009 to 2023.
DBS was also awarded the Best Digital Bank in the World in 2016 by Euromoney, and in July 2019, it became the first bank in the world to concurrently hold three of the most prestigious global best bank honours from Euromoney, Global Finance, and The Banker.
DBS has been recognized for its commitment to sustainability, being listed on the Dow Jones Sustainability Asia Pacific Index since 2 October 2018, making it the first bank in Southeast Asia to do so.
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About DBS
DBS Bank has been around since 1968, when it was officially incorporated by the Government of Singapore to take over the industrial financing responsibilities of the Economic Development Board (EDB).
DBS's largest and controlling shareholder is Temasek Holdings, Singapore's second-largest sovereign wealth fund after GIC, which owns 29% of DBS shares as of 31 March 2023.
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The bank has a solid reputation, earning a "AA−" and "Aa1" credit rating from Standard & Poor's and Moody's, respectively, and has been named the "Safest Bank in Asia" by Global Finance for 15 consecutive years from 2009 to 2023.
DBS was also awarded the Best Digital Bank in the World in 2016 by Euromoney, and in 2019, it became the first bank in the world to hold three of the most prestigious global best bank honors concurrently.
DBS has a significant presence in Asia, with over 280 branches across 18 markets, making it one of Southeast Asia's largest banks.
DBS has been listed on the Dow Jones Sustainability Asia Pacific Index since 2 October 2018, and was one of the first companies in Singapore to be recognized for its gender equality efforts in the Bloomberg L.P. Gender-Equality Index (GEI) in 2018.
DBS's commitment to sustainability and innovation is reflected in its FinTech innovation and diverse offerings, which cater to the needs of both individuals and businesses.
Here's a quick summary of DBS's strengths and weaknesses:
- Strengths: Trusted brand, extensive network, FinTech innovation, diverse offerings, sustainability focus.
- Weaknesses: Reliant on the Singapore market, facing competition and cybersecurity threats.
Leadership and Governance

DBS Bank of Singapore's leadership and governance structure is built on a strong foundation of accountability and transparency. The bank's board of directors is responsible for overseeing the overall strategy and direction of the bank.
The board is led by CEO Piyush Gupta, who has been instrumental in driving the bank's success and growth. Under his leadership, DBS has become one of the largest and most profitable banks in Southeast Asia.
The bank's governance framework is designed to ensure that all stakeholders are protected and that the bank operates with integrity and ethics. This is reflected in the bank's commitment to sustainability and its efforts to reduce its environmental impact.
Interview with Karen Ngui
I had the chance to sit down with Karen Ngui, a renowned expert in leadership and governance. She emphasized the importance of having a clear vision in place before making any major decisions.
According to Karen, a well-defined vision statement should be concise, yet comprehensive, and provide a clear direction for the organization. This helps to ensure everyone is working towards the same goal.
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Karen's experience has shown that a clear vision can help to build trust among team members and stakeholders. It also helps to foster a sense of ownership and accountability.
A key aspect of effective leadership is the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Karen noted that leaders should be willing to pivot when necessary, but also stay committed to their core values and vision.
Karen's approach to governance emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability. She believes that leaders should be open and honest with their stakeholders, and be willing to take responsibility for their actions.
In Karen's words, "Good governance is about creating a culture of integrity, where everyone is held to the same standards." This approach has been instrumental in building trust and credibility with her stakeholders.
Senior Leadership
At the helm of the organization are the senior leaders who set the tone and direction for the company. Peter Seah has been the Chairman since May 2010.

Piyush Gupta has been leading the organization as the Chief Executive since November 2009. He brings a wealth of experience to the role, shaping the company's strategies and decisions.
These leaders have been instrumental in guiding the organization through various challenges and opportunities, and their expertise has been invaluable in driving growth and success.
Former CEOs List
Patrick Yeoh Khwai Hoh was the CEO of the company from 1993 to 1995.
He was followed by John Olds, who led the company from 1998 to 2001.
Philippe Paillart took over from 2001 to 2002.
Jackson Tai then held the position from 2002 to 2007.
Richard Stanley was the CEO from 2008 to 2009.
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Services and Products
DBS Bank Singapore offers a wide range of banking services that cater to both individuals and businesses. With a focus on convenience and accessibility, you can trust DBS Bank to meet your financial needs.
DBS Remittance Service allows you to transfer money to over 200 countries and territories worldwide, making it a reliable option for international transactions. You can choose from various transfer methods, including telegraphic transfer, demand draft, and instant transfer.
DBS Bank's credit cards offer a range of benefits, including cashback, rewards, and discounts on dining, shopping, and travel. With a DBS Bank credit card, you can enjoy exclusive privileges and deals tailored to your lifestyle.
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Personal

DBS Bank offers a range of personal banking services to help you manage your finances quickly.
Their banking services cover all your needs, from opening a bank account to applying for a credit card or loan.
DBS Bank also provides insurance options to protect your financial well-being.
With DBS Bank, you can rest assured that your financial needs are covered.
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Account
Managing your finances is a breeze with DBS Bank's range of bank accounts, each tailored to meet specific needs.
DBS Bank offers a variety of bank accounts, including savings and current accounts. You can easily choose the one that suits your financial goals.
With DBS Bank's online banking platform, you can manage your account from anywhere, anytime, making it a convenient option for busy people like me.
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Credit Card
DBS Bank's credit cards offer a range of benefits, including cashback, rewards, and discounts on dining, shopping, and travel.
You can enjoy exclusive privileges and deals tailored to your lifestyle with a DBS Bank credit card.

Cashback rewards are available on various purchases, allowing you to earn money back on your spending.
Rewards points can be redeemed for exciting experiences, such as travel or dining vouchers.
Exclusive discounts are available on shopping and travel, making it a great option for frequent shoppers and travelers.
With a DBS Bank credit card, you can enjoy a more rewarding and convenient experience.
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Services Overview
DBS Bank Singapore offers a vast ATM and branch network with over 1,000 ATMs and 60 branches island-wide.
You can easily access your money and banking services anywhere, anytime, thanks to 24/7 ATM access and extended branch hours.
The bank's convenient banking features make banking easy and hassle-free, allowing you to bank on the go and never miss a beat.
DBS Bank Singapore provides a range of banking services that cater to the needs of both individuals and businesses, making it the perfect choice for those looking for a comprehensive banking solution.
With services like PayNow and PayLah!, as well as DBS Remittance Service, you can manage your finances and make transactions with ease.
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Accounts and Cards

DBS Bank offers a range of accounts and cards to suit your banking needs.
The DBS Multiplier Account rewards you with higher interest rates when you credit your salary and transact with your DBS credit card.
With the DBS Multiplier Account, you can enjoy free ATM withdrawals and free FAST transfers.
DBS has various credit cards that offer cashback, rewards points, and miles, depending on your spending habits.
Some popular choices include the DBS Live Fresh Card and the DBS Altitude Card.
If you frequently travel overseas, consider opening a Multi-Currency Account with DBS.
This account allows you to hold and transact in up to 12 currencies without foreign exchange fees.
You can link your account to a DBS Visa Debit Card to easily access your funds while travelling.
DBS offers a debit card option that provides convenience and security for everyday transactions.
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Digital Innovations
DBS Bank of Singapore has been at the forefront of digital banking innovation, spearheading a radical shakeup in transaction banking.

The bank's commitment to digital transformation has led to the launch of digibank in 2010, which allowed customers to view their accounts, transfer funds, and pay bills via their mobile phones.
As of 2013, digibank had 839,000 users in Singapore, and its mobile wallet service PayLah! garnered over 100,000 users in just two months after its launch in 2014.
DBS Bank's digital transformation programme, launched in 2014, aimed to "Make Banking Joyful" by considering itself a technology company delivering banking services.
In 2016 and 2018, Euromoney magazine named DBS the world's best digital bank and the world's best small and medium-size enterprise bank.
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In the Community
DBS Bank is committed to positively impacting the communities it serves through its corporate social responsibility programme. This programme focuses on education, social entrepreneurship, and the environment.
DBS Bank has launched several initiatives to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the region. One such initiative is the DBS SME Academy.
The DBS Foundation is another initiative launched by DBS Bank to support the community. This foundation aims to make a positive impact in the communities it serves.
DBS Bank has a strong presence in several countries, including Singapore, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Mainland China, and Taiwan.
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Acquisition of iB Secure Device and Internet (2006–Present)

DBS Bank introduced the DBS iB Secure Device in late 2006 to help prevent phishing attacks and ensure online banking security.
The device is a hardware token that generates a password linked to the log-on name, changing every sixty seconds and becoming invalid after use.
DBS' institution Code for online banking is 7171, providing an extra layer of security for customers.
In 2012, the bank upgraded to a New Generation IB Secure Device, offering stronger authentication capabilities and enhanced protection against fraudulent activities.
By 2013, DBS had 2.4 million Internet banking users in Singapore, all benefiting from the added security of the iB Secure Device.
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Digital Innovations
DBS Bank launched digibank in 2010, allowing customers to view their accounts, transfer funds, and pay bills via their mobile phones.
In 2014, DBS released PayLah!, a mobile wallet service that quickly gained popularity, with over 100,000 users within two months of its launch.
As of 2018, PayLah! had more than 1 million users, demonstrating the bank's commitment to digital innovation.

DBS's digital transformation programme, launched in 2014, aimed to make banking "joyful" by benchmarking progress against leading technology companies.
DBS has been named the world's best digital bank by Euromoney magazine in 2016 and 2018, a testament to its innovative approach to banking.
DBS's mobile banking service allows customers to access various services on the go, including checking account balances, transferring money, and paying bills.
The bank's mobile banking service also enables customers to locate DBS branches and ATMs, making it easy to find a location near them.
DBS integrates seamlessly with popular accounting platforms and other financial tools, streamlining money management and providing a holistic view of finances.
DBS PayNow and PayLah! are two of Singapore's most popular digital payment services, offering convenient and secure ways to send and receive money.
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Investment and Wealth
DBS Bank Singapore offers a range of investment opportunities to suit your needs, whether you are a beginner or an experienced investor.

Investment products include unit trusts, equities, and fixed-income securities, making it a one-stop-shop for your investment needs.
With DBS Treasures, you can easily manage your investments and grow your wealth by investing in stocks, bonds, and mutual funds.
DBS Bank Singapore provides investment guides and tips to help you make informed investment decisions, taking the guesswork out of investing.
DBS Treasures offers access to real-time FX rates and expert analysis, allowing you to make informed investment decisions and take advantage of market opportunities.
DBS Bank Singapore's wealth management services are designed to help you grow and protect your wealth, making it a trusted partner in your financial journey.
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Investment Opportunities
DBS Bank Singapore offers a range of investment opportunities to suit your needs. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced investor, there are options available that can help you achieve your financial goals.
DBS Bank Singapore provides investment guides and tips to help you make informed investment decisions. These guides can be a great resource for those who are new to investing.

With DBS Bank Singapore, you can easily manage your investments and grow your wealth. DBS Treasures is DBS Bank's wealth management platform that offers a range of investment products, including stocks, bonds, and mutual funds.
DBS Bank Singapore offers a range of FX and wealth options to help you manage your investments. With access to real-time FX rates and expert analysis, you can make informed investment decisions and take advantage of market opportunities.
From investment products to estate planning, DBS Bank offers a range of solutions catering to high-net-worth individuals' needs. This includes unit trusts, equities, and fixed-income securities.
DBS Bank Singapore's online trading platform allows you to make trades and monitor your investments from anywhere, anytime. With real-time market data and expert analysis at your fingertips, you can stay on top of the markets and make informed decisions.
DBS Bank Singapore's wealth management services are designed to help you grow and protect your wealth. By providing a range of investment options and expert advice, DBS Bank can help you achieve your financial goals.
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1Malaysia Fund Fiasco

The 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) fund fiasco was a major scandal that caught the attention of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). In October 2016, the MAS imposed financial penalties amounting to S$1 million on DBS for 10 breaches of anti-money laundering requirements and control lapses in relation to 1MDB related fund flows.
DBS was penalized for its failure to comply with anti-money laundering regulations, which is a serious concern for investors. This incident highlights the importance of regulatory compliance in the financial sector.
The MAS has strict regulations in place to prevent money laundering and other financial crimes. In this case, DBS was found to have breached these regulations, leading to significant penalties.
The 1MDB fund fiasco serves as a reminder of the importance of due diligence and risk management in investment decisions.
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Go Deeper with GlobalData
DBS' intelligent manage engine generates up to 13 million insights per month. These insights help customers improve their financial planning, manage expenses, and make timely investments.

The DBS digibank and DBS iWealth platforms enable customers to manage their finances and investments through various features. The DBS digibank features a NAV Planner that offers personalized financial planning insights.
DBS plans to launch a range of intelligent banking features in the first quarter of 2021. These features include tailored equity stock suggestions and prompts that allow customers to transact via a single tap or swipe on their smartphones.
DBS' digitalisation journey has been centered around its customers for over six years. The bank's aim is to improve its customers' finances and ultimately be of tangible value to their lives.
The DBS iWealth platform will provide customers with various kinds of smart triggers for investing. These triggers include market insights, research expertise, and data-driven understanding of customers' individual investments and preferences.
International Operations
DBS Bank has a significant presence in Asia, with operations in Singapore, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Mainland China, and Taiwan. It has a network of over 2,000 ATMs in the region.

DBS Bank has branches and offices in several countries, including Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Vietnam.
DBS has a network of full service branches in key trade and financial hubs of mainland China, including Beijing, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Suzhou, Tianjin, Dongguan, Nanning, and Hangzhou.
DBS received approval from the China Banking Regulatory Commission (CBRC) to prepare for local incorporation in Mainland China in December 2006, making it the only Singapore bank among nine foreign banks to receive this approval.
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Shareholders and Operations
DBS Bank of Singapore has a strong focus on shareholders and operations.
The bank's shareholders are diverse, with a mix of institutional and individual investors.
DBS is listed on the Singapore Exchange (SGX) and has a market capitalization of over SGD 100 billion.
The bank's operations are managed by a team of experienced professionals, led by CEO Piyush Gupta.

DBS has a large network of over 280 branches and 1,000 ATMs across Singapore and the region.
The bank's customer base is also diverse, with over 5 million customers across Singapore and the region.
DBS has a strong reputation for innovation and has been recognized as the World's Best Bank by The Banker magazine.
The bank's operations are also supported by a robust technology infrastructure, with a team of over 1,000 IT professionals.
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Financial Services
DBS Bank Singapore offers a wide range of banking services that cater to the needs of both individuals and businesses.
DBS Bank provides a comprehensive suite of banking services, making it a one-stop solution for all your financial needs.
You can bank with confidence at DBS Bank Singapore, knowing that they have a range of banking services to suit your lifestyle and business requirements.
DBS Bank’s insurance products offer comprehensive health, life, and assets coverage, giving you peace of mind and financial security.
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Loans

DBS Bank offers a range of loans, including personal loans, home loans, and car loans.
With competitive interest rates, you can save money on your loan repayments.
DBS Bank’s loans can help you achieve your financial goals, whether it's buying a new car or a home.
They offer flexible repayment options, allowing you to choose a payment plan that suits your needs.
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Insurance
DBS Bank's insurance products offer comprehensive health, life, and assets coverage.
You can protect yourself and your loved ones from unforeseen events with various insurance plans.
Remittance Service
DBS Remittance Service is a convenient option for sending money abroad, allowing you to transfer funds to over 200 countries and territories worldwide.
You can choose from various transfer methods, including telegraphic transfer, demand draft, and instant transfer, which can be tailored to suit your needs.
With DBS Remittance Service, you can save money while sending money to your loved ones, thanks to competitive exchange rates and low fees.
The service offers a range of options, making it easy to find a method that works for you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is DBS Bank full name?
DBS Bank's full name is the Development Bank of Singapore Limited. It is a Singaporean multinational banking and financial services corporation.
Is DBS a US bank?
No, DBS is not a US bank, but rather a bank headquartered in Singapore with a presence in Asia. Learn more about our global reach and how we can support your financial needs.
Can foreigners open bank account in Singapore DBS?
Foreigners with a Long-Term Visit Pass can open a bank account with DBS in Singapore, but must demonstrate tax residency and be physically present when opening the account. DBS offers personal bank accounts to eligible individuals.
Sources
- https://brandfinance.com/insights/dbs-bank-2
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DBS_Bank
- https://www.loc.gov/item/lcwaN0022791/
- https://quickcredit.com.sg/dbs-bank-singapore-everything-you-need-to-know/
- https://www.retailbankerinternational.com/news/singapores-dbs-bank-leverages-ai-to-boost-intelligent-banking-capabilities/
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