What is remittance and what are the different types of remittances?

What Is Remittance in banking? 

Remittance means the process of sending money from one party to another, especially when it comes to transferring funds overseas. For a business owner, remittance means transferring funds smoothly within your business network. Whether settling invoices with suppliers and vendors or managing international transactions, remittance is crucial in keeping your business financially operational. It involves making timely payments for goods and services and even handling payroll, especially if your employees are scattered across different locations. Whether you opt for traditional banking methods or embrace modern digital platforms, how you handle remittance payments can significantly impact the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of your financial transactions. Efficient remittance processes are essential for maintaining a steady cash flow and managing relationships with your business partners.

It's important to note that remittance isn't exclusive to businesses. It also encompasses individual money transfers between countries. The term refers to the process of individuals or family members sending money from one country to another, emphasising its broader application beyond business transactions.

Another very popular term associated with remittances is bank remittances. It basically means sending or receiving money internationally through banks. You use these financial institutions to securely transfer funds across borders, whether for personal reasons, business transactions, or investments. While opting for bank remittances, the intermediary bank ensures security and regulatory compliance, keep in mind that fees and processing times may vary. Global remittances involve a network of banks, currency exchanges, and regulations, all impacting the efficiency and cost of moving money across borders.

What Are the Types of Remittances?

There are two main types based on who receives the funds.

1. Inward Remittances:

Inward Remittance involves receiving money from a foreign location in your own country. This could be for various reasons like receiving your salary or payment for services your business has rendered. Essentially, it's the flow of funds into your country, contributing to your business finances, whether for operating expenses, investments, or other financial obligations.

2. Outward Remittances:

On the flip side, sending money abroad from your home country to a person, company, or institution residing abroad is referred to as outward remittance. For example, if your company sends salaries to international employees, that's an outward remittance. Understanding these two types helps you manage and categorise the flow of funds in and out of your financial transactions.

What Payment Methods Are Available for Remittance?

Here's the lowdown on how your business can send or receive money:

1. Money Transfer Services:

Go for the classic move – direct money transfer. Shift funds from your business bank account straight to the other recipient's bank account. Do it online or hit up your bank's branch. However, it’s important to keep an eye on those fees, especially if you're swiping with a credit card.

2. Money Orders:

Consider money orders if you're not in a rush and want to keep those transaction fees low. Deposit them at the bank, provide the recipient's details, and you're all set.

3. Cheques:

Taking it old school, you can move money with cheques. Just a heads up, though – it's a slow process with account verification and processing time.

4. Prepaid Cards:

And for a bit of electronic magic, try prepaid debit cards. Load them up, enter the beneficiary's details, and send that money over. However, some prepaid cards might hit you with hefty international transfer fees, and only some countries are on board with payments from these cards.

5. Banks, Credit Unions and other payment platforms:

Singapore has a well-connected banking scene with branches all over. Use it to your advantage for remittances. If your usual bank is playing hide-and-seek, try cosying up to a new one. Also, credit unions and payment services institutions may do transfers at a lower cost. For instance, Aspire’s business account can be a viable alternative for efficient and affordable business transactions.

Singapore Remittance Market  

According to a recent report published by Allied Market Research, Singapore’s remittance market is estimated to reach a value of approximately $13.34 billion by the year 2032. The same report valued this market at $8.05 billion in 2022 and is believed to be growing at a brilliant CAGR of 5.2%.  

Remittance plays an important role in the global financial fabric. Funds can be safely transferred from one country to another without worrying about geographical borders. A growing number of financial institutions in Singapore are offering remittance services through an efficient network of data-driven processes  and partners.  

The primary factor responsible for the increased demand for remittance services is the popularity of mobile-based payment channels. This, coupled with the increased volume of international transactions and the ease with which remittance occurs, has propelled this market to new heights. Singapore’s focus on technological advancements and adopting several tech-savvy banking and financial practices turn it into a lucrative avenue for remittance. 

Another reason for this steep incline is the increasing demand from the consumption segment. Singapore has a substantial immigrant population is a major tourist and education hub. This is also a global financial and investment centre and is expected to witness incredible growth in the investment sector in the upcoming years. Combining these factors has contributed to an increased need for cross-border fund transfers. A major reason why the remittance segment in Singapore had the highest share in terms of transactions is because of the large number of foreign workers and expatriates living in Singapore. When all this is put together, one thing becomes abundantly clear: Singapore’s remittance market is expected to continue its upward trajectory in the foreseeable future. 

How has COVID-19 Affected Remittance Services in Singapore? 

Since many foreign workers in Singapore transfer money back to their home countries, the COVID-19 pandemic had a substantial impact on the Singapore remittance market. This is because the pandemic led to unemployment and reduced incomes, which made it more difficult for these workers to send money back home. Additionally, lockdowns and travel restrictions slowed down remittance services, which had an impact on the flow of money. On the other side, digital remittance services saw an increase in demand as more consumers turned to online choices to ensure their safety due to social distancing. As a result, COVID-19 made it more difficult for overseas workers to send money back home, but it also sped up the transition toward digital remittance options in the Singapore remittance sector. 

Challenges in Remittance Services  

Now that you know what remittance is and understand how it works, let’s look at some common challenges in this service.  

Strict regulatory compliance 

All financial institutions have various regulatory and compliance requirements for fund transfers, especially international transfers such as remittances. Remittance providers must follow much-needed know-your-customer regulations, anti-money laundering compliances, and customer safety and security. Abiding by these compliances can feel cumbersome, but they are needed to prevent illegal activities, including fraud. This can make remittance services more expensive and result in delays. 

Integration with new technology 

In this tech-dominated world, newer and quicker technologies are being introduced to simplify banking services and processes. However, financial institutions take some time to adopt these tech technologies to ensure remittance services are more efficient and quicker. Whether it is connecting to a new system, data privacy concerns, or system downtime, all these factors can delay the process. Also, there are instances when certain technologies are quickly adopted in certain regions while others take time. 

Delay in processing 

Whether it is the difference in time, zones, slow banking systems, or the involvement of intermediary financial institutions, all these occurrences result in delays while processing remittances. If you are waiting for money, especially in an emergency, these processing delays can be stressful. However, when making a remittance or expecting to receive one, consider a couple of days as a buffer for any processing time that might be needed. 

Changes in the exchange rate 

Currency rates are volatile in the global market. Even a slight fluctuation can reduce the amount of remittance received from the recipient. This is another risk that’s inherent to remittance services. 

Transaction cost 

Whenever funds have to be transferred internationally, the providers charge a certain transaction fee along with the cost of currency conversion. 

Limited access  

Remittance services are easy to use, provided you have a bank account and reliable internet connection, and the bank or financial institution has the infrastructure needed to support fund transfers. If your access to such services is limited, remittance becomes slightly challenging. By overcoming these regulatory barriers, it becomes easier to send or receive money across borders. 

How to Receive a Remittance? 

Familiarizing yourself with remittance in banking is needed, especially if you either remit the funds or receive them. Receiving a remittance is incredibly simple. For instance, if you have to receive funds from a foreign country, they will show up in your account as if it were any other normal electronic fund transfer, regardless of whether an individual or a business makes the transfer. So, receiving a remittance does not require any additional steps in the case of an electronic fund transfer. However, if the remittance needs to be collected in cash, you must go to the required bank where the cash has been transferred and provide proof of identity along with any other documents to complete the transaction. 

How to Send a Remittance?

1. Parties Involved

In the remittance process, as a business owner, you'll encounter four key parties:

• The Sender: This is you—the one initiating the transfer, debiting funds from your account, and sending them to another party.
• Sending Agent: The first go-between in the process, usually a financial institution. They gather the funds, receiver's details, payment method, transaction fees, and other necessary information.
• Receiving Agent: The second intermediary is the receiver's bank. They validate your details and inform the recipient about the transaction.
• The Recipient/Receiver: The final party in the chain receives the money into their account after deducting foreign exchange fees and other applicable taxes.

2. Process Involved

• Choose a Reliable Service: Pick a trusted remittance service based on fees, rates, and speed.
• Provide Information: Be ready with your identification and the recipient's details.
• Specify Amount and Currency: Decide how much you want to send and in which currency.
• Understand Fees and Rates: Know the fees and exchange rates involved.
• Select Transfer Method: Choose a convenient transfer method, like online platforms or banks.
• Consider Speed: Consider how quickly you need the funds to reach the recipient.
• Confirm and Pay: Double-check the details, confirm the transfer, and make the payment.
• Inform the Recipient: Let the recipient know about the transfer details.
• Track Your Transfer: Keep an eye on your transfer's progress with any tracking options provided.

Understanding Your Remittance Transfer Fees

Remittance fees are contingent upon the service provider, and the specific service utilised for sending money internationally. The costs associated with transferring funds across borders can differ significantly depending on factors such as the financial institution or remittance service chosen. Providers may implement diverse fee structures, encompassing handling charges, currency conversion fees, and other associated costs.

When you send money overseas from your SGD account to your vendor overseas, it's essential to be aware of the various fees associated with the transaction. Here's a breakdown of the different types of fees:

1. Handling Commission (Handling Charge):

• You'll encounter a surcharge imposed by the bank or remittance service provider.
• This fee covers the administrative cost of handling the transaction on your behalf.

2. Cable Charge:

• If you're transferring money from your bank account to an overseas one, keep the cable charge in mind.
• This fee compensates for the time and effort the bank puts in to contact the receiving bank.
• Think of it like the charges you might incur when making international calls on your telecommunication post-paid plan.
• Typically, the bank or money transfer service provider sets a fixed fee per transaction.

3. Agent Bank Charge:

• In any overseas money transfer you initiate, there's a receiving bank known as the agent bank.
• The agent bank plays a key role in liaising with your bank or money transfer service provider to ensure the smooth completion of the transaction.
• They do charge a fee for these efforts.

Now that you know what is remittance and how remittance transfer fees work, let’s look at their benefits.

What Are the Benefits of Remittances?

You'll find several benefits that play a crucial role in economic well-being:

1. Access to Quality Products: You can benefit from international remittances by accessing high-quality products sourced globally. Remittance enables you to acquire the best raw materials, enhancing the quality and competitiveness of your offerings.
2. Global Expansion: Your business can experience ease in global expansion through remittance channels. Efficient payroll systems enabled by remittances contribute to smoother international transactions, making it easier for your business to operate on a global scale.
3. Cost-Effective Vendor Sourcing: Remittances facilitate efficient pricing strategies for your business through cost-effective vendor sourcing. This helps you optimise production costs and ensures competitive pricing for your products and services.
4. Aid in Emergencies: In natural disasters, you can use international remittance money for donations and essential help.
5. Boost in Spending Power: Receiving inward remittances enhances your spending power. This increases your spending on goods and services, stimulating production activities and strengthening your distribution channels.
6. Economic Growth: The rise in your spending capacity results in more purchases, injecting more money into the economy and contributing to the growth of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This, in turn, leads to increased sectoral income for your business.

What Are the Limitations of Remittances?

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and individual financial institutions play a role in establishing and enforcing these limits. Remittance limits include

1. Minimum Transaction Limit: Typically set at a minimum amount per transaction, such as US$ 10 or its equivalent.
2. Maximum Daily Limit: A cap on the maximum amount that can be remitted in a single day, often ranging from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars.
3. Annual Limit: An overall limit on the total amount an individual or business can remit within a calendar year, often expressed in USD or its equivalent.

Financial Impact of Remittance in Singapore

According to a recent report by Allied Market Research, the Singapore Remittance Market, valued at $8.05 billion in 2022, is projected to reach $13.34 billion by 2032, with an anticipated Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.2% from 2023 to 2032. The growth is attributed to Singapore's sizable foreign population, its role as a global financial hub, and advancements in digital banking and fintech services, which have facilitated more accessible and efficient remittance options. This positive outlook underscores the dynamic financial landscape shaped by Singapore's economic strength and its evolving position in the global financial ecosystem.

Cross-border Transactions and Mobile-based Payment Network in Singapore 

The Singapore remittance industry is anticipated to develop due to the rise in cross-border transactions, shift toward mobile banking, and use of mobile-based payment solutions. Furthermore, the market is expanding as a result of rising international trade, migration, and changes in national economic trends. Real-time international payments could also become a reality thanks to recent advancements in cross-border payments. Several banks are working to provide value-added services and fast cross-border remittances through a relationship-centric strategy, which supports market expansion.  

For example, in Singapore, authorities are working to meet the demand brought about by smartphone use and the widespread use of digital access points for remittances, such as Alternative Payment Methods (APMs). This element drives the expansion of the Singaporean remittance sector. 

The Influence of Fintech on Remittance

The impact of fintech on remittance fees in Singapore is quite significant for businesses. Fintech companies bring innovation to the table, often offering more competitive pricing by cutting overhead costs through efficient use of technology.

Fintech platforms are known for transparent fee structures, making understanding the costs associated with your remittance transactions easier. Beyond cost, fintech enhances efficiency and speed, providing faster and more streamlined remittance services. Some platforms even facilitate remittances through digital wallets, offering businesses a seamless and cost-effective alternative to traditional banking channels.

Key Difference Between Remittance vs Payment

Understanding the difference between remittance and payment is crucial for a business. Remittance typically involves sending money across borders using various methods like traditional banks or digital platforms. Therefore, remittance is not limited to just “digital transfers” between countries. However, in nowadays, it is commonly associated with international money transfers through digital channels. 

But is it just like transferring money from one account to another? Let's find out.

Let’s consider the scenario wherein your tech company in Singapore regularly procures components from a vendor based in Australia. When you initiate a transaction to send funds to settle the payment for these components, it's not just any payment; it's a business-to-business foreign remittance. This goes beyond a domestic payment for goods and introduces an international dimension, highlighting the crucial difference between a standard payment and a cross-border remittance in the business world.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is remittance legal in Singapore? 

Yes, remittance is legal in Singapore as long as the transfers are done through legitimate and licensed financial institutions regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). It is the sender's responsibility to do due diligence and choose the right remittance partner. 

What is the purpose of remittance? 

Remittance is primarily used for payments, debt repayment, and gifts to friends and family. Businesses often use remittances to make purchases and pay vendors. People also use remittance to give gifts and aid. Overseas workers use migrant remittances to transfer money to their families in other countries. 

Are remittance transactions monitored? 

Service providers, bank and financial institutions, and MAS keep a tab on all remittance transactions to combat fraud and money laundering. 

How long does it take for a recipient to receive funds? 

In most cases, the recipient will get the money no later than four days after the next business day. However, that would change based on the country and the bank that receives the money. 

Can remittance be considered as proof of payment? 

A remittance is a transfer of funds between two participating parties, but it isn't a proof of payment. Remittance advice can prove that the payment has been successfully completed and can be considered as proof of payment. 

Why was my payment not received by the beneficiary? 

In case if there is any compliance issue or miss on any other mandatory checks, your overseas transfer may get stalled. For any such issues, it is best to call your bank or financial institution where you initiated the transfer (sending agent) or write an email to their customer service department.   

How can my beneficiary collect the remittance? 

A beneficiary can choose from multiple options for collecting the remittance. They can opt for a bank account transfer or get it uploaded on a prepaid card or a money wallet. They can also choose to pickup cash from the bank. 

What is the remittance limit for payments in Singapore? 

As of now, there is a daily limit of S$200,000 for remittance payments in Singapore.

What are the different types of remittance costs you need to be aware of? 

When sending money from your SGD account to an international merchant, you must be aware of the following fees. 

• Handling charge: This is charged by banks and remittance providers for administrative charges. This fee is a charge for the secure and smooth transaction. 

• Cable Charge: Money transfers to foreign banks often incur cable fees, which cover the coordination fee between the sending agent and receiving bank. It is more like a predetermined fee for the communication required to complete your transaction. 

• Agent Bank Fee: Agent banks charge for receiving transactions, as they coordinate with your provider to achieve the transfer as per schedule.

How have fintech solutions and digital wallets made remittance? 

Digital wallets enable faster, cheaper money transfers than banks. Fintech has improved remittance services by cutting fees, simplifying the transfer process and reducing the time of transfer. Digital wallets let users exchange currencies, track payments, and transfer instantaneously, which reduces delays and improves payment processing.