AI hiring in Singapore fintech rises 40% YoY

Around 23% of professionals are currently upskilling through online courses, focusing on areas like AI.

AI-related hiring continues to surge in Singapore’s fintech sector, with a 40% YoY rise in demand for roles such as AI engineers, data scientists and MLOps professionals, according to the Singapore Fintech Talent Report 2025.

Despite macroeconomic headwinds, 32% of firms plan to increase hiring in 2026.

The report highlighted a shift in hiring priorities, with soft skills such as communication (92%) and adaptability (85%) ranking above formal qualifications.

Around 23% of professionals are currently upskilling through online courses, focusing on areas like AI, data analytics, and advanced Excel. Singapore remains the regional anchor for fintech talent, accounting for about one-third of the Asia-Pacific’s fintech workforce.

Companies are increasingly using a hybrid workforce model, with 71% prioritising local hiring for strategic roles, whilst also expanding regional and contract talent pools.

On compensation and retention, salary remains the top motivator (67%), but 70% of employers report budget constraints. As a result, 67% of professionals would accept equity or stock options in place of higher base pay.

Emerging-tech specialists can command 20–35% pay premiums, whilst 72% of firms are investing in certifications and training. Structured learning programmes are cited by 54% of employers as helpful for retaining talent.

Beyond compensation, 84.6% of professionals value hybrid work and career progression (77%), whilst 60% of hybrid staff say they may leave if required to spend more time in the office.

The report also noted a trust gap in leadership, with only 43% of professionals expressing high confidence in senior management. However, all respondents emphasise the importance of a collaborative culture, and over half of employers (54%) support cross-functional learning.

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