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Are you looking to earn stable returns with minimal risk in Singapore? Government securities like Singapore Savings Bonds (SSB), Treasury Bills (T-Bills), and Singapore Government Securities (SGS) offer some of the safest investment options with competitive interest rates. However, before you can start investing in these financial instruments, you'll need to set up a Central Depository (CDP) account. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process.

The Central Depository (CDP) is a subsidiary of the Singapore Exchange (SGX) that holds securities on behalf of investors. Think of your CDP account as a digital safe that stores all your investment certificates. It's essential for investing in:

• Singapore Savings Bonds (SSB)
• Treasury Bills (T-Bills)
• Singapore Government Securities (SGS)
• Stocks listed on the SGX
• Bonds and other securities
  

Without a CDP account, you won't be able to participate in these government-backed investments that currently offer attractive yields of 3-4% with virtually no risk.

Before applying, ensure you meet these basic requirements:

• At least 18 years old
• Not bankrupt
• Have a Singapore bank account with DBS / POSB, UOB, or OCBC
• Possess a SingPass account (for Singapore Citizens and PRs)
• Valid identification (NRIC for Singaporeans / PRs or passport for foreigners)
  

You have three main options:

1. Online via MyInfo (fastest, for Singapore Citizens and PRs)
2. Online manual form (for all applicants)
3. Through a brokerage firm (when opening a trading account)
   

• Your SingPass login details
• A digital copy of your signature
• Your bank account details

• Scanned copy of your NRIC (front and back) or passport
• Proof of address (utility bill, bank statement less than 3 months old)
• Digital signature (signed on white paper and scanned)
  

1. Visit the SGX CDP web portal
2. Click 'Open CDP Account'
3. Select "MyInfo" as your verification method
4. Log in with your SingPass
5. Review your pre-filled information
6. Upload your signature
7. Choose 'Direct Credit Service' and link your bank account
8. Provide your tax residency information
9. Review and submit your application

1. Access the CDP application form
2. Fill in your personal details
3. Upload required documents
4. Complete and submit the form
   

• You'll receive a CDP account number immediately
• Your account will be active within 2-3 business days
• You'll receive an official welcome letter by mail within 10 business days
  

1. Log in to your bank's internet banking portal (DBS/POSB, UOB, or OCBC)
2. Navigate to the "Investments" or "Apply for SSB" section
3. Enter your CDP account number
4. Select the SSB issue (they're released monthly)
5. Enter your investment amount (minimum $500, in multiples of $500)
6. Confirm and submit your application
   

1. Log in to your bank's internet banking
2. Navigate to "Investments" or "T-Bills"
3. Select the upcoming T-Bill auction
4. Enter your CDP account number
5. Choose between competitive or non-competitive bidding (non-competitive is simpler)
6. Enter your investment amount (minimum $1,000, in multiples of $1,000)
7. Submit your application before the auction deadline
   

1. Log in to your bank's internet banking
2. Go to "Investments" or "Bonds"
3. Select the SGS bond issue you're interested in
4. Enter your CDP account details
5. Specify your investment amount (typically minimum $1,000)
6. Review and submit your application
   

• Activate Direct Crediting Service (DCS): This allows interest payments and redemption proceeds to be credited directly to your bank account.
• Use the CDP Internet Service: Register for online access to view your holdings and transaction history.
• Update Your Contact Information: Ensure SGX can reach you with important notifications.
• Monitor Upcoming Issuances: Keep track of new SSB, T-Bill, and SGS offerings through the Singapore Government Securities website.
• Understand the Differences: SSBs offer flexibility with no penalty for early redemption, T-Bills are short-term (6 or 12 months), and SGS bonds have longer maturities (2-30 years).
  

While SSBs, T-Bills, and SGS offer safe returns of 3-4%, they may not be sufficient to meet all your long-term financial goals, especially with inflation eroding purchasing power. To truly build wealth, consider diversifying your portfolio with other investments like Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs).