DBS To Launch Retail Access To Robo-Based ETF Portfolios

DBS’ retail clients will gain access to its robo-platform «digiPortfolio» by year-end which will generate ETF portfolios designed by its wealth management arm.

Retail investors will have access to portfolios constructed using exchange-traded funds (ETFs) by the end of the third quarter, the bank said in a release on Monday.

The bank will launch two portfolios made of Singapore and UK-listed ETFs, allowing retail customers to tap the investment expertise of the bank’s wealth management team.

Technology has helped us to avail some services to our retail clients that in the past was almost impossible to do so at affordable rates, said Jeremy Soo, DBS head of consumer banking group for Singapore, at a media briefing on Monday.

DBS digiPortfolio was first launched in March this year with two portfolios offered only to DBS Treasures clients, who have assets under management of S$350,000 and above. In contrast, the new Asia portfolio is available to customers with no prior investment experience.

The Asia Portfolio, which requires a minimum investment sum of S$1,000, offers Singapore Exchange (SGX)-listed ETFs, the first of such portfolio for the bank. It provides the investor with exposure to Singapore, China, and India. For investors seeking global diversification, they can opt for the Global Portfolio, which offers UK-listed ETFs for a minimum investment sum of S$1,000.