SINGAPORE, November 18, 2024 – CGS International Securities (CGS International) has unveiled UP, a trading platform designed to democratise access to capital markets for a new generation of investors. With features like fractional share trading and an intuitive interface, UP aims to make investing more affordable and accessible, catering especially to younger, tech-savvy individuals.
Fractional Trading for Bursa Malaysia: A Regional First
In a pioneering move for Southeast Asia, UP introduces fractional trading for Bursa Malaysia stocks, allowing investors to purchase portions of shares rather than whole units. This feature lowers the financial barrier to entry, enabling users to diversify their portfolios without significant upfront costs. The platform also supports trading on the Singapore Exchange and US stock markets.
To celebrate the launch, UP is offering new users a package of perks, including:
- Free fractional Malaysian shares worth approximately S$55 (RM180).
- Commission-free trading for all ‘buy’ transactions.
- Additional rewards for participants in its regular savings plan, SaveUP.
The platform has also partnered with BigPay, a leading financial technology company in the Capital A ecosystem. BigPay will promote UP across its marketing channels, offering AirAsia vouchers to new users who sign up via its platform.
Simplifying Investing for a New Generation
As digital-native investors increasingly influence capital markets, UP seeks to address the gaps in financial knowledge often observed among younger traders. Many rely on social media for investment tips, which can lead to uninformed decisions driven by hype rather than sound strategies. UP focuses on fostering a foundation of responsible investing, helping users prioritise sustainable, long-term wealth accumulation over short-term speculative gains.
Carol Fong, Group CEO of CGS International, emphasised the platform’s mission: “At CGS International, we aim to make capital markets accessible to all while encouraging responsible and sustainable investing. By equipping new investors with the right tools and knowledge, we hope to empower communities to build a financially secure future.”
Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A, echoed this vision: “UP is a game-changer, much like how AirAsia revolutionised travel. Fractional trading opens up investment opportunities to everyone, creating a more inclusive financial ecosystem. We are excited to support this effort through the Capital A network and BigPay.”
Innovative Features: SaveUP and Discover Insights
UP offers several unique features tailored to novice investors:
- SaveUP: A regular savings plan allowing users to invest as little as $1 per month. Users can set specific investment goals or select stocks for systematic investment, promoting disciplined wealth accumulation.
- Discover Tab: Exclusive access to CGS International’s top investment picks across trending themes, including Artificial Intelligence, Dividends, and Big Tech.
- Educational Resources: The platform provides simplified infographics and blogs on investment fundamentals, designed to demystify complex financial concepts for beginners.
Elgin Ting, Group Head of Strategic Partnerships at CGS International, highlighted the platform’s focus on accessibility: “UP removes traditional barriers to investing with an easy onboarding process, a user-friendly interface, and CGS International’s award-winning insights. As the first in the region to offer fractional shares trading on Bursa Malaysia, UP makes it possible for anyone to participate in Malaysia’s dynamic market affordably.”
With UP, CGS International aims to empower a new generation of investors, enabling them to confidently navigate the complexities of capital markets while building sustainable financial futures.