Banking & Financial Services: H2 2025 Market Update

The hiring landscape in Singapore’s financial services sector is evolving rapidly as we move into 2025. Economic pressures and regulatory changes are driving firms to rethink their talent strategies, balancing cost efficiency with the need for specialised expertise.

Key Highlights from the Report:

Permanent Hiring Trends:

• Leaner structures are consolidating roles, requiring professionals to manage portfolios while advising clients.
• Demand for hybrid talent with multi-asset product knowledge and strong UHNW networks is intensifying.
• Skills in Python, machine learning, and AI are now more valued than traditional finance degrees.
• Asian hedge funds are targeting science and engineering graduates affected by U.S. visa restrictions for quant roles.

Contract Hiring Insights:

• Contractors are filling critical gaps across HR, marketing, finance, and operations amid strict FTE caps.
• MAS reviews, IFRS17 wrap-ups, and risk culture uplift initiatives are driving demand for project-based hires.
• Administrative and operational functions are being centralised or offshored to emerging markets for cost efficiency.

To navigate these trends effectively—whether you’re hiring or seeking new opportunities—understanding the evolving market dynamics is key.

Complete the form on the right to download a copy of our market updates flyer today, and gain actionable insights into permanent and contract hiring movements across Singapore’s financial services sectors.