Singapore
 
Background Information
Singapore is renowned for its world-class lifestyle and friendly environment. Whilst having a reputation for being ultra modern, it retains a wide range of Chinese, Malay and Indian traditions and it offers a superb blend of Asia and Western influences.
 
Law Firms & In-House
Singapore has long been established as a premier financial centre and is the South East Asia base for a number of UK and US law firms. Whilst not as big a market as Hong Kong, it does not have the same demand for Asian language skills and firms usually look overseas for their lateral recruits. In-house roles in Singapore are fairly few and far between for lawyers based overseas, though some roles do exist in major multi-nationals and top investment banks.
 
Private Practice
The market has recovered remarkably from the downturn in 2002 and 2003. Law firms have grown significantly in the last two years and the outlook remains positive. Areas in demand are principally:
  • Corporate
  • Banking & Finance
  • Project Finance
  • Capital Markets
  • Energy
In-House
Whilst roles are relatively scarce, lawyers with skills in the following areas are of interest:
  • Structured Finance & Securitisation
  • Debt Capital Markets
  • Derivatives & Structured Products
  • Compliance - both investment banking and funds related
Remuneration & Benefits
Salaries in Singapore have moved away from the traditional ‘ex-pat package’. Whilst the occasional role may offer housing and cost-of-living allowances, most law firms and banks now pay a local Singapore dollars salary. Salaries are still relatively high and tax is low at 20%. The cost of living in Singapore is low compared to London or Hong Kong and lawyers tend to live in houses or large apartments with gardens and swimming pools.
 
Outside the Office
Singapore offers something for everyone. There is a superb range of bars, clubs and restaurants, shopping, fantastic parks and great beaches. It offers a wide range of sporting facilities, including a number of top golf courses. It is vibrant and social for younger lawyers, yet also provides a superb environment for families. The climate is excellent, the air is clean and there is far more space than in most Asian cities! Singapore is a fantastic base for travelling across the region. Indonesia is a stone's throw away, as are some of the region's most beautiful outlying islands.
 
 
If you are interested in working as a Lawyer in the above jurisdiction, please contact us for a confidential and detailed discussion.