Buy Bitcoin with DBS Bank

[✓] last verified 2026-02-04·Reviewed by BankToBTC Team

Data from bank docs & MAS registers · How we verify · Report an error

DBS is crypto-friendly. Retail customers can freely transfer SGD to MAS-licensed exchanges via PayNow or FAST. DBS operates an institutional crypto exchange but retail crypto services are through third-party platforms.

Supported payment methods: PayNow, FAST, GIRO

Last verified: Feb 4, 2026

Top Exchanges for DBS Bank

• Indep. Reserve
• Coinhako
• Coinbase

Step-by-step guide to buying Bitcoin with DBS Bank

DBS Bank customers typically buy Bitcoin by funding a MAS-licensed exchange using PayNow or FAST from DBS digibank. Follow the steps below.

1. Pick a MAS-licensed exchange
   Choose a platform with a Major Payment Institution licence from MAS that supports PayNow deposits for SGD funding.
2. Create your exchange account
   Sign up with your email, set a strong password, and enable two factor authentication.
3. Complete identity verification
   Upload your NRIC or passport and complete the selfie check. Your exchange account name must match your DBS account name exactly.
4. Get the exchange deposit details
   In the exchange deposit screen, copy the PayNow UEN or virtual account number, and the reference code if one is provided.
5. Send funds using PayNow
   Open DBS digibank, go to PayNow, enter the UEN or account number, paste the reference code in the description field exactly as shown, and confirm.
6. Alternatively use FAST
   If PayNow is unavailable, use FAST transfer with the account number and bank code provided by the exchange. Include the reference code.
7. Wait for the deposit to credit
   PayNow deposits are usually instant. FAST transfers typically arrive within minutes. Large first-time transfers may trigger a security review.
8. Purchase Bitcoin
   Once your SGD balance arrives, go to Buy or Trade, select BTC, enter the amount, review fees and confirm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy Bitcoin with DBS Bank?

Yes, but not inside DBS digibank. DBS does not provide a "buy Bitcoin" feature in the banking app for retail users. The usual path is funding a regulated crypto platform using PayNow (to a UEN or mobile) or a bank transfer over FAST, then buying on the platform once the SGD deposit lands.

What is the best DBS funding method for crypto deposits, PayNow or FAST?

For most people, PayNow is the simplest when the platform supports it (UEN or mobile number). If the platform gives you a bank account (DBS or another bank) and a reference code, FAST is the go-to for same-day, near real-time SGD transfers. What matters is what the platform actually supports on its SGD deposit screen.

Where do I change my DBS transfer limit before sending money to a crypto platform?

In DBS digibank, you can adjust your Funds Transfer Limit (your daily cap for local transfers, including PayNow and FAST). If a deposit fails or you cannot submit the transfer, this limit is one of the first things to check.

What is DBS's maximum daily limit for local transfers like PayNow and FAST?

DBS states the daily Funds Transfer Limit can be set up to S$200,000 for local transfers in Singapore (subject to your profile and settings). If you are trying to send size, you usually need to lift the limit first, then do a smaller test payment before the full amount.

Why did DBS ask for extra verification or slow my first transfer to a new crypto payee?

This is usually new payee risk controls, not a crypto-only rule. First-time payments to a fresh PayNow recipient or a new bank beneficiary can trigger extra checks, step-up authentication, or delays. The fastest way to reduce friction is a small first transfer to establish history, then scale.

Should I use a DBS debit or credit card to buy crypto, or stick to bank transfer?

For reliability, stick to PayNow or FAST. Card transactions are screened differently and can fail based on merchant category, issuer risk settings, or the platform's card processor. Bank transfers are easier to reconcile because the deposit is tied to a named transfer rail and reference format. (If you use cards at all, treat it as a small test, not your main plan.)

Evidence & Verification

This page references 4 sources: DBS Bank Transfer Guide, DBS Transfer Limits, Reuters: SGD Crypto Transfers. Information was compiled from official sources and user reports.

Sources:

• DBS Bank Transfer Guide
• DBS Transfer Limits
• Reuters: SGD Crypto Transfers
• Regulator

How we verify · Report an error

Information can change without notice. Always verify current policies directly with your bank and exchange before making transactions.