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Question 1 of 30
1. Question
Zenith Fund Management, a Singapore-licensed firm, is launching an authorized collective investment scheme. They intend to delegate the management of 15% of the scheme’s Net Asset Value to a sub-manager based in the United Kingdom. Which condition must Zenith Fund Management and its related corporations satisfy regarding their existing operations in Singapore to proceed with this delegation?
Correct
Correct: They must already be managing at least SGD 500 million of discretionary funds in Singapore is the right answer because the rules state that if more than 10% of an authorized scheme’s value is sub-managed abroad, the manager and its related corporations must meet this specific asset management threshold locally.
Incorrect: The suggestion regarding base capital is wrong because the regulatory threshold for delegation is based on the volume of discretionary funds managed, not the firm’s internal capital. The claim that the sub-manager must be directly licensed by the local regulator is incorrect because the authority instead considers if the sub-manager is reputable and supervised by an acceptable foreign supervisor. The requirement for ten years of experience is wrong because the rules do not specify a minimum duration of experience for this delegation, focusing instead on the scale of assets managed in Singapore.
Takeaway: Managers delegating over 10% of a scheme’s assets to foreign sub-managers must demonstrate a substantial local presence by managing at least SGD 500 million in discretionary funds in Singapore.
Incorrect
Correct: They must already be managing at least SGD 500 million of discretionary funds in Singapore is the right answer because the rules state that if more than 10% of an authorized scheme’s value is sub-managed abroad, the manager and its related corporations must meet this specific asset management threshold locally.
Incorrect: The suggestion regarding base capital is wrong because the regulatory threshold for delegation is based on the volume of discretionary funds managed, not the firm’s internal capital. The claim that the sub-manager must be directly licensed by the local regulator is incorrect because the authority instead considers if the sub-manager is reputable and supervised by an acceptable foreign supervisor. The requirement for ten years of experience is wrong because the rules do not specify a minimum duration of experience for this delegation, focusing instead on the scale of assets managed in Singapore.
Takeaway: Managers delegating over 10% of a scheme’s assets to foreign sub-managers must demonstrate a substantial local presence by managing at least SGD 500 million in discretionary funds in Singapore.
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Question 2 of 30
2. Question
Vanguard Alpha is a Singapore-authorized Fund-of-Hedge-Funds (FOHF) that includes a capital guarantee meeting all regulatory requirements. Which of the following describes the borrowing restrictions applicable to this specific capital guaranteed FOHF?
Correct
Correct: The fund is exempt from the standard borrowing limit of 25% of the net asset value because regulations specifically waive this cap for Fund-of-Hedge-Funds that provide a capital guarantee meeting the required standards.
Incorrect: The suggestion that the limit is 10% is incorrect as the standard limit for regular FOHFs is 25%, and even that is waived for guaranteed funds. The idea that borrowing can be used for investment purposes is wrong because borrowing is strictly limited to temporary needs like meeting redemptions or bridging. The claim that the borrowing period can be six months is false because the maximum allowable period for temporary borrowing remains three months regardless of the guarantee.
Takeaway: Capital guaranteed Fund-of-Hedge-Funds are exempt from the standard 25% borrowing limit, but they must still only borrow for temporary liquidity needs for no more than three months.
Incorrect
Correct: The fund is exempt from the standard borrowing limit of 25% of the net asset value because regulations specifically waive this cap for Fund-of-Hedge-Funds that provide a capital guarantee meeting the required standards.
Incorrect: The suggestion that the limit is 10% is incorrect as the standard limit for regular FOHFs is 25%, and even that is waived for guaranteed funds. The idea that borrowing can be used for investment purposes is wrong because borrowing is strictly limited to temporary needs like meeting redemptions or bridging. The claim that the borrowing period can be six months is false because the maximum allowable period for temporary borrowing remains three months regardless of the guarantee.
Takeaway: Capital guaranteed Fund-of-Hedge-Funds are exempt from the standard 25% borrowing limit, but they must still only borrow for temporary liquidity needs for no more than three months.
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Question 3 of 30
3. Question
A fund management company is reviewing its reporting and administrative obligations for a Singapore-authorised collective investment scheme (CIS). Which of the following statements accurately describe the requirements regarding reports and the register of participants?
I. The trustee must send the annual report and audited accounts to participants within three months of the financial year-end.
II. A semi-annual report is required for a fund that has been operational for only two months since its initial launch.
III. Reports can be sent via electronic means as long as participants are notified of the URL where they can be accessed.
IV. The manager is the party responsible for maintaining the register of participants and providing translations if necessary.Correct
Correct: Statement I is correct because the trustee is responsible for ensuring that annual accounts, the auditor’s report, and the annual report are sent to participants within three months of the financial year-end. Statement III is correct because the regulations allow for the electronic delivery of reports, such as through a website, provided that participants are notified of their availability and the specific URL via a physical letter or email.
Incorrect: Statement II is incorrect because a semi-annual or annual report does not need to be prepared or sent if the period from the initial launch date is less than three months. Statement IV is incorrect because the responsibility for maintaining and providing access to the register of participants lies with the approved trustee, not the fund manager.
Takeaway: While managers prepare the financial statements, the trustee is responsible for distributing reports within specific timelines and maintaining the participant register, with exemptions available for very short initial or final reporting periods. Therefore, statements I and III are correct.
Incorrect
Correct: Statement I is correct because the trustee is responsible for ensuring that annual accounts, the auditor’s report, and the annual report are sent to participants within three months of the financial year-end. Statement III is correct because the regulations allow for the electronic delivery of reports, such as through a website, provided that participants are notified of their availability and the specific URL via a physical letter or email.
Incorrect: Statement II is incorrect because a semi-annual or annual report does not need to be prepared or sent if the period from the initial launch date is less than three months. Statement IV is incorrect because the responsibility for maintaining and providing access to the register of participants lies with the approved trustee, not the fund manager.
Takeaway: While managers prepare the financial statements, the trustee is responsible for distributing reports within specific timelines and maintaining the participant register, with exemptions available for very short initial or final reporting periods. Therefore, statements I and III are correct.
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Question 4 of 30
4. Question
A fund manager is reviewing the operational requirements for three Singapore-authorized collective investment schemes: a standard equity fund, a property fund, and a capital guaranteed fund. Which of the following correctly describes the regulatory treatment for these specific product types?
Correct
Correct: The requirement for property funds to have a full valuation at least once a year and for capital guaranteed funds to redeem at the higher of the guarantee or NAV is correct. Property funds follow specific guidelines allowing for annual valuations rather than daily. Capital guaranteed schemes must ensure investors receive the better of the two values (guarantee vs NAV) at the point of maturity.
Incorrect: The assertion that property funds require daily valuation is wrong because the regulations specifically allow for a yearly frequency for these assets. The claim that capital guaranteed funds only pay the guaranteed amount is incorrect because they must pay the NAV if it has performed better. The statement that standard equity funds only need monthly valuation is false as they generally require daily valuation. The idea that property funds are exempt from all valuations is incorrect as they must still perform a full valuation annually.
Takeaway: Fund managers must apply different valuation frequencies and redemption calculations depending on whether a scheme is a standard fund, a property fund, or a capital guaranteed product.
Incorrect
Correct: The requirement for property funds to have a full valuation at least once a year and for capital guaranteed funds to redeem at the higher of the guarantee or NAV is correct. Property funds follow specific guidelines allowing for annual valuations rather than daily. Capital guaranteed schemes must ensure investors receive the better of the two values (guarantee vs NAV) at the point of maturity.
Incorrect: The assertion that property funds require daily valuation is wrong because the regulations specifically allow for a yearly frequency for these assets. The claim that capital guaranteed funds only pay the guaranteed amount is incorrect because they must pay the NAV if it has performed better. The statement that standard equity funds only need monthly valuation is false as they generally require daily valuation. The idea that property funds are exempt from all valuations is incorrect as they must still perform a full valuation annually.
Takeaway: Fund managers must apply different valuation frequencies and redemption calculations depending on whether a scheme is a standard fund, a property fund, or a capital guaranteed product.
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Question 5 of 30
5. Question
Mr. Lim is a compliance officer at a firm managing a Fund of Hedge Funds (FOHF). He is reviewing the scheme’s reporting obligations and prospectus requirements to ensure they align with the Code on Collective Investment Schemes. Which of the following statements regarding the reporting and disclosure requirements for this FOHF are correct?
I. The requirement to prepare quarterly reports is generally not applicable to FOHFs.
II. Annual audited accounts must be dispatched to participants within three months of the financial year-end.
III. If a quarterly report is issued for the FOHF, it should be sent within 45 days of the period’s end.
IV. The manager is strictly required to disclose the top 10 holdings even if it is deemed prejudicial to the scheme.Correct
Correct: Statement I is correct because the regulatory framework specifically exempts certain types of collective investment schemes, such as Funds of Hedge Funds (FOHFs) and capital guaranteed hedge funds, from the mandatory requirement to produce quarterly reports. Statement II is correct because the standard deadline for the trustee to ensure annual audited accounts reach participants is three months from the end of the scheme’s financial year. Statement III is correct because while standard hedge funds must typically issue quarterly reports within one month, specific guidance provides FOHFs with an extended period of 45 days to account for the time needed to receive data from underlying managers.
Incorrect: Statement IV is incorrect because managers are not strictly required to disclose the top 10 holdings in all circumstances. If the manager and the trustee both agree that such disclosure would be prejudicial to the interests of the scheme, they may omit the specific holdings and instead provide aggregate exposure data categorized by factors like industry, asset class, or credit rating.
Takeaway: While hedge funds generally face rigorous reporting cycles, FOHFs are granted specific exemptions from mandatory quarterly reporting and are allowed extended timelines for voluntary disclosures due to their unique operational structure. Therefore, statements I, II and III are correct.
Incorrect
Correct: Statement I is correct because the regulatory framework specifically exempts certain types of collective investment schemes, such as Funds of Hedge Funds (FOHFs) and capital guaranteed hedge funds, from the mandatory requirement to produce quarterly reports. Statement II is correct because the standard deadline for the trustee to ensure annual audited accounts reach participants is three months from the end of the scheme’s financial year. Statement III is correct because while standard hedge funds must typically issue quarterly reports within one month, specific guidance provides FOHFs with an extended period of 45 days to account for the time needed to receive data from underlying managers.
Incorrect: Statement IV is incorrect because managers are not strictly required to disclose the top 10 holdings in all circumstances. If the manager and the trustee both agree that such disclosure would be prejudicial to the interests of the scheme, they may omit the specific holdings and instead provide aggregate exposure data categorized by factors like industry, asset class, or credit rating.
Takeaway: While hedge funds generally face rigorous reporting cycles, FOHFs are granted specific exemptions from mandatory quarterly reporting and are allowed extended timelines for voluntary disclosures due to their unique operational structure. Therefore, statements I, II and III are correct.
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Question 6 of 30
6. Question
A fund manager is reviewing the operational and compliance requirements for a newly launched collective investment scheme (CIS) in Singapore. Which of the following statements regarding the ongoing obligations of the manager and the operation of the CIS are correct?
I. When a manager’s internal credit assessment for an investment differs from an external rating, the manager should use the higher rating to reflect the asset’s potential.
II. For a collective investment scheme that invests substantially all of its net asset value in another scheme, redemption proceeds must be paid within seven business days.
III. A fund manager is prohibited from acting as the counterparty to any over-the-counter financial derivative transaction entered into by the scheme it manages.
IV. Participants must be notified of an increase in the manager’s remuneration at least one month before it takes effect, even if the new rate is within the trust deed’s limits.Correct
Correct: Statement II is correct because collective investment schemes that function as feeder funds (investing all or substantially all of their assets into another scheme) are required to pay out redemption proceeds within seven business days. Statement III is correct because to mitigate conflicts of interest, a manager is strictly prohibited from acting as the counterparty for any over-the-counter financial derivative transaction involving the scheme they manage. Statement IV is correct because any increase in the remuneration for the manager or trustee is classified as a significant change that requires at least one month’s prior notice to participants, even if the increase does not exceed the maximum limits specified in the fund’s trust deed.
Incorrect: Statement I is incorrect because when there is a discrepancy between a manager’s internal credit assessment and an external credit rating, the manager is required to adopt the lowest rating rather than the higher one. This ensures a conservative approach to risk management and prevents the overvaluation of credit quality.
Takeaway: Fund managers must adhere to specific redemption timelines based on the fund type and provide advance notice for significant changes like fee increases, while maintaining independence in derivative transactions and credit assessments. Therefore, statements II, III and IV are correct.
Incorrect
Correct: Statement II is correct because collective investment schemes that function as feeder funds (investing all or substantially all of their assets into another scheme) are required to pay out redemption proceeds within seven business days. Statement III is correct because to mitigate conflicts of interest, a manager is strictly prohibited from acting as the counterparty for any over-the-counter financial derivative transaction involving the scheme they manage. Statement IV is correct because any increase in the remuneration for the manager or trustee is classified as a significant change that requires at least one month’s prior notice to participants, even if the increase does not exceed the maximum limits specified in the fund’s trust deed.
Incorrect: Statement I is incorrect because when there is a discrepancy between a manager’s internal credit assessment and an external credit rating, the manager is required to adopt the lowest rating rather than the higher one. This ensures a conservative approach to risk management and prevents the overvaluation of credit quality.
Takeaway: Fund managers must adhere to specific redemption timelines based on the fund type and provide advance notice for significant changes like fee increases, while maintaining independence in derivative transactions and credit assessments. Therefore, statements II, III and IV are correct.
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Question 7 of 30
7. Question
Sarah, a fund manager for an authorized collective investment scheme, is reviewing the annual expenses to determine which items can be paid out of the fund’s property. She must ensure that all payments are fair and comply with restrictions on marketing and promotional costs. Which of the following expenses is Sarah permitted to charge to the property of the scheme?
Correct
Correct: Charging the costs for the preparation, printing, and distribution of product highlight sheets is permitted. These documents are essential disclosure requirements for investors, and the regulations specifically exclude them from the general prohibition on charging marketing or promotional expenses to the fund.
Incorrect: Media advertisements and the distribution of promotional fact sheets are classified as marketing and promotion expenses, which the manager is prohibited from paying out of the fund’s property. Additionally, no fees can be paid from the fund’s property unless they have been explicitly provided for in the trust deed; verbal agreements or side arrangements are insufficient.
Takeaway: Fund managers are prohibited from charging general marketing and promotional expenses to a collective investment scheme, but they may charge costs related to mandatory disclosure documents like prospectuses and product highlight sheets.
Incorrect
Correct: Charging the costs for the preparation, printing, and distribution of product highlight sheets is permitted. These documents are essential disclosure requirements for investors, and the regulations specifically exclude them from the general prohibition on charging marketing or promotional expenses to the fund.
Incorrect: Media advertisements and the distribution of promotional fact sheets are classified as marketing and promotion expenses, which the manager is prohibited from paying out of the fund’s property. Additionally, no fees can be paid from the fund’s property unless they have been explicitly provided for in the trust deed; verbal agreements or side arrangements are insufficient.
Takeaway: Fund managers are prohibited from charging general marketing and promotional expenses to a collective investment scheme, but they may charge costs related to mandatory disclosure documents like prospectuses and product highlight sheets.
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Question 8 of 30
8. Question
A fund manager operates a capital guaranteed scheme where the guarantor is a financial institution. If the guarantor’s long-term credit rating is downgraded from AA to BBB, what is the required course of action?
Correct
Correct: The manager must enter into a new agreement with a qualified guarantor within six months or sooner if the trustee deems it necessary is the right answer because when a guarantor’s credit rating falls below the specified ‘A’ threshold, the manager is required to find a replacement that meets the original high-quality standards to ensure the capital guarantee remains valid.
Incorrect: The statement regarding no action being required for a BBB rating is wrong because the ‘no action’ allowance only applies if the rating remains at least at the ‘A’ level. The suggestion of immediate termination is wrong because the regulations provide a specific six-month grace period to secure a replacement. The idea of obtaining unanimous participant consent is wrong because the manager has a mandatory duty to maintain a qualified guarantor regardless of participant votes.
Takeaway: When a guarantor’s credit rating drops below the ‘A’ category, the manager has a six-month window to replace them with a new eligible guarantor to protect the fund’s capital guarantee.
Incorrect
Correct: The manager must enter into a new agreement with a qualified guarantor within six months or sooner if the trustee deems it necessary is the right answer because when a guarantor’s credit rating falls below the specified ‘A’ threshold, the manager is required to find a replacement that meets the original high-quality standards to ensure the capital guarantee remains valid.
Incorrect: The statement regarding no action being required for a BBB rating is wrong because the ‘no action’ allowance only applies if the rating remains at least at the ‘A’ level. The suggestion of immediate termination is wrong because the regulations provide a specific six-month grace period to secure a replacement. The idea of obtaining unanimous participant consent is wrong because the manager has a mandatory duty to maintain a qualified guarantor regardless of participant votes.
Takeaway: When a guarantor’s credit rating drops below the ‘A’ category, the manager has a six-month window to replace them with a new eligible guarantor to protect the fund’s capital guarantee.
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Question 9 of 30
9. Question
Mr. Lim is the compliance officer for a fund management company that operates a capital guaranteed fund. Due to a recent restructuring of the guarantor, the trustee is reviewing the existing guarantee agreement and the fund’s disclosure obligations. Which of the following statements regarding the management of the guarantee are correct?
I. The guarantee must be a first-demand guarantee and legally enforceable in Singapore by the trustee on behalf of the participants.
II. Any variation to the guarantee agreement, regardless of its impact on participants, requires an ordinary resolution at a meeting of participants.
III. If the guarantee applies only on a specific date, the manager must notify participants of the guaranteed redemption value at least 30 days before that date.
IV. If the fund continues without a guarantee because the cost of a new one is too high, the name must be changed to remove words like ‘guaranteed’ or ‘assured’.Correct
Correct: Statement I is correct because the guarantee must be structured as a first-demand obligation that the trustee can legally enforce within the Singapore jurisdiction to protect the interests of the fund’s participants. Statement III is correct because for funds where the guarantee is date-specific, participants require sufficient notice of at least 30 days to understand the redemption value and make informed decisions. Statement IV is correct because if a fund loses its guarantee and chooses to continue, it must not mislead investors by retaining terms like “guaranteed” or “assured” in its title or marketing materials.
Incorrect: Statement II is incorrect because not every variation requires a participant resolution. Minor changes only require the trustee’s approval; only those changes deemed material by the trustee necessitate an ordinary resolution by the participants. Additionally, variations in the guaranteed amount due to routine subscriptions or redemptions are not considered variations to the agreement.
Takeaway: Capital guaranteed funds must maintain strictly enforceable first-demand guarantees and provide timely notifications to investors, ensuring that the fund’s name accurately reflects its guaranteed status at all times. Therefore, statements I, III and IV are correct.
Incorrect
Correct: Statement I is correct because the guarantee must be structured as a first-demand obligation that the trustee can legally enforce within the Singapore jurisdiction to protect the interests of the fund’s participants. Statement III is correct because for funds where the guarantee is date-specific, participants require sufficient notice of at least 30 days to understand the redemption value and make informed decisions. Statement IV is correct because if a fund loses its guarantee and chooses to continue, it must not mislead investors by retaining terms like “guaranteed” or “assured” in its title or marketing materials.
Incorrect: Statement II is incorrect because not every variation requires a participant resolution. Minor changes only require the trustee’s approval; only those changes deemed material by the trustee necessitate an ordinary resolution by the participants. Additionally, variations in the guaranteed amount due to routine subscriptions or redemptions are not considered variations to the agreement.
Takeaway: Capital guaranteed funds must maintain strictly enforceable first-demand guarantees and provide timely notifications to investors, ensuring that the fund’s name accurately reflects its guaranteed status at all times. Therefore, statements I, III and IV are correct.
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Question 10 of 30
10. Question
A foreign fund manager has successfully registered a recognised collective investment scheme in Singapore. To maintain this recognition and serve local investors, what specific operational duty must their Singapore-based representative fulfill?
Correct
Correct: Facilitating the issue and redemption of units and the publishing of unit prices is the right answer because the representative acts as a local administrative point of contact. This ensures that investors in Singapore have a practical way to buy or sell units and can view current prices in the same language used in the offering documents.
Incorrect: The suggestion that the representative provides investment advice or manages asset allocation is wrong because these are duties of the fund manager, not the local representative. The claim that the representative must serve as the legal trustee is incorrect because the trustee is a separate entity responsible for asset safekeeping, whereas the representative handles local administrative access. The idea that the representative performs independent compliance reviews or audits is wrong because those functions are handled by professional auditors or the manager’s internal compliance department.
Takeaway: The representative of a recognised scheme acts as the essential local link for administrative functions, specifically ensuring investors can transact units and access pricing information easily.
Incorrect
Correct: Facilitating the issue and redemption of units and the publishing of unit prices is the right answer because the representative acts as a local administrative point of contact. This ensures that investors in Singapore have a practical way to buy or sell units and can view current prices in the same language used in the offering documents.
Incorrect: The suggestion that the representative provides investment advice or manages asset allocation is wrong because these are duties of the fund manager, not the local representative. The claim that the representative must serve as the legal trustee is incorrect because the trustee is a separate entity responsible for asset safekeeping, whereas the representative handles local administrative access. The idea that the representative performs independent compliance reviews or audits is wrong because those functions are handled by professional auditors or the manager’s internal compliance department.
Takeaway: The representative of a recognised scheme acts as the essential local link for administrative functions, specifically ensuring investors can transact units and access pricing information easily.
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Question 11 of 30
11. Question
A fund manager is developing a new commodity-linked index fund to be offered to retail investors in Singapore. Which of the following statements regarding the regulatory requirements for this index fund are correct?
I. The manager may use an optimization approach even if some investments are not index constituents, provided the fund’s characteristics closely match the index.
II. For a commodity index, a single constituent can have a maximum weighting of 35% as long as all other constituents do not exceed 20%.
III. If the index provider is a related corporation of the manager, the manager must ensure proper segregation of roles to manage potential conflicts of interest.
IV. The manager is required to notify the Authority within 14 business days if the underlying index no longer meets the diversification requirements.Correct
Correct: Statement I is correct because the regulatory framework allows for optimization and sampling strategies where the fund may hold assets that are not part of the index, provided the resulting portfolio characteristics closely align with the index. Statement II is correct because for indices composed of non-entity constituents like commodities, the maximum weighting for a single constituent is increased to 35%, while others must remain at or below 20%. Statement III is correct because when a related corporation provides the index, the manager must implement effective conflict management measures, such as the functional segregation of roles.
Incorrect: Statement IV is incorrect because the manager is required to notify the Authority immediately, rather than within a specific 14-day period, if the index fails to meet the necessary characteristics or diversification requirements. Providing a specific multi-day window is a common misconception, as the rules emphasize prompt reporting to ensure regulatory oversight.
Takeaway: Index funds must maintain specific diversification thresholds and transparency standards, and any breach of these index characteristics requires the manager to notify the regulator immediately and propose remedial actions. Therefore, statements I, II and III are correct.
Incorrect
Correct: Statement I is correct because the regulatory framework allows for optimization and sampling strategies where the fund may hold assets that are not part of the index, provided the resulting portfolio characteristics closely align with the index. Statement II is correct because for indices composed of non-entity constituents like commodities, the maximum weighting for a single constituent is increased to 35%, while others must remain at or below 20%. Statement III is correct because when a related corporation provides the index, the manager must implement effective conflict management measures, such as the functional segregation of roles.
Incorrect: Statement IV is incorrect because the manager is required to notify the Authority immediately, rather than within a specific 14-day period, if the index fails to meet the necessary characteristics or diversification requirements. Providing a specific multi-day window is a common misconception, as the rules emphasize prompt reporting to ensure regulatory oversight.
Takeaway: Index funds must maintain specific diversification thresholds and transparency standards, and any breach of these index characteristics requires the manager to notify the regulator immediately and propose remedial actions. Therefore, statements I, II and III are correct.
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Question 12 of 30
12. Question
A fund manager is preparing the prospectus for a newly authorized index fund in Singapore. Which information regarding the index constituents must be included in this document to comply with the Code on Collective Investment Schemes?
Correct
Correct: The names and weightings of the top 10 largest constituents as of a date within one month of the prospectus is the right answer because the regulations require specific transparency regarding the most significant components of the index. This data must be current, specifically within one month of the prospectus date, to provide investors with an accurate view of the fund’s primary exposures and concentration at the time of the offering.
Incorrect: The option suggesting a comprehensive list of every constituent is wrong because the rules focus on the largest exposures to maintain clarity and brevity in the prospectus rather than requiring the entire index list. The option mentioning the top 5 constituents and a three-month window is incorrect as it fails to meet the specific ‘top 10’ and ‘one month’ requirements set by the Code. The option regarding the top 20 constituents and their historical performance is wrong because historical performance of individual constituents is not a mandatory disclosure requirement for the index fund prospectus.
Takeaway: To ensure transparency, index fund prospectuses must disclose the top 10 constituents and their weightings using data no older than one month from the prospectus date.
Incorrect
Correct: The names and weightings of the top 10 largest constituents as of a date within one month of the prospectus is the right answer because the regulations require specific transparency regarding the most significant components of the index. This data must be current, specifically within one month of the prospectus date, to provide investors with an accurate view of the fund’s primary exposures and concentration at the time of the offering.
Incorrect: The option suggesting a comprehensive list of every constituent is wrong because the rules focus on the largest exposures to maintain clarity and brevity in the prospectus rather than requiring the entire index list. The option mentioning the top 5 constituents and a three-month window is incorrect as it fails to meet the specific ‘top 10’ and ‘one month’ requirements set by the Code. The option regarding the top 20 constituents and their historical performance is wrong because historical performance of individual constituents is not a mandatory disclosure requirement for the index fund prospectus.
Takeaway: To ensure transparency, index fund prospectuses must disclose the top 10 constituents and their weightings using data no older than one month from the prospectus date.
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Question 13 of 30
13. Question
A foreign fund manager intends to offer a recognised collective investment scheme to investors in Singapore. Under the prevailing regulations, which condition regarding the manager’s assets under management (AUM) must be satisfied for this recognition?
Correct
Correct: The manager of a recognised collective investment scheme, together with its related companies, is required to manage at least SGD 500 million of discretionary funds specifically within Singapore. However, this asset management threshold is waived if the units of the scheme are approved for listing and trading on a securities exchange.
Incorrect: The suggestion that the threshold applies to global funds is incorrect because the regulation specifically measures discretionary funds managed within Singapore. The mention of a SGD 1 billion threshold is factually inaccurate as the regulatory requirement is set at SGD 500 million. The statement that the requirement applies to all schemes regardless of their listing status is wrong because the rules provide a specific exemption for schemes that are listed and traded on an exchange.
Takeaway: Managers of recognised schemes must generally meet a SGD 500 million local AUM threshold unless the scheme’s units are listed for trading on a securities exchange.
Incorrect
Correct: The manager of a recognised collective investment scheme, together with its related companies, is required to manage at least SGD 500 million of discretionary funds specifically within Singapore. However, this asset management threshold is waived if the units of the scheme are approved for listing and trading on a securities exchange.
Incorrect: The suggestion that the threshold applies to global funds is incorrect because the regulation specifically measures discretionary funds managed within Singapore. The mention of a SGD 1 billion threshold is factually inaccurate as the regulatory requirement is set at SGD 500 million. The statement that the requirement applies to all schemes regardless of their listing status is wrong because the rules provide a specific exemption for schemes that are listed and traded on an exchange.
Takeaway: Managers of recognised schemes must generally meet a SGD 500 million local AUM threshold unless the scheme’s units are listed for trading on a securities exchange.
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Question 14 of 30
14. Question
Alpha REIT Management is considering purchasing a commercial building recommended by their appointed advisor, who is also the marketing agent for that specific property. How should the manager and advisor proceed to comply with the Code?
Correct
Correct: The advisor must disclose their role as marketing agent to the manager and ensure they are not an associate of the manager. This is because the regulatory framework allows advisors who are not independent to make recommendations on properties they are marketing, provided there is full disclosure of their role and they do not have a close corporate relationship (associate status) with the fund manager.
Incorrect: The requirement for the advisor to be completely independent of the manager is wrong because the rules specifically state that an advisor appointed to provide expertise does not need to be independent. The suggestion that the advisor must waive all marketing commissions from the seller is incorrect as the regulation focuses on disclosure and association rather than the waiver of external commissions, provided fees paid by the fund are at market rates. The claim that the advisor must obtain prior written approval from the Authority is wrong because regulatory consent is not required for individual property recommendations, even when a conflict of interest like a marketing role exists.
Takeaway: An advisor who also acts as a marketing agent for a property may only recommend that property to the fund if they disclose their dual role and are not an associate of the fund manager.
Incorrect
Correct: The advisor must disclose their role as marketing agent to the manager and ensure they are not an associate of the manager. This is because the regulatory framework allows advisors who are not independent to make recommendations on properties they are marketing, provided there is full disclosure of their role and they do not have a close corporate relationship (associate status) with the fund manager.
Incorrect: The requirement for the advisor to be completely independent of the manager is wrong because the rules specifically state that an advisor appointed to provide expertise does not need to be independent. The suggestion that the advisor must waive all marketing commissions from the seller is incorrect as the regulation focuses on disclosure and association rather than the waiver of external commissions, provided fees paid by the fund are at market rates. The claim that the advisor must obtain prior written approval from the Authority is wrong because regulatory consent is not required for individual property recommendations, even when a conflict of interest like a marketing role exists.
Takeaway: An advisor who also acts as a marketing agent for a property may only recommend that property to the fund if they disclose their dual role and are not an associate of the fund manager.
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Question 15 of 30
15. Question
Mr. Tan is the trustee of the Emerald Growth Fund, a unit trust. He determines that the fund’s responsible person has ceased to carry on business and decides to summon a meeting of participants to determine the course of action. What is the most appropriate procedure for Mr. Tan to follow when notifying the participants about this meeting?
Correct
Correct: Providing 21 days written notice and advertising in four specific language newspapers is the right answer because the regulations mandate a minimum notice period and broad public disclosure across Singapore’s main languages to ensure all participants are adequately informed of the meeting.
Incorrect: The suggestion of a 14-day notice period and only two newspapers is wrong because the law requires at least 21 days and coverage in four specific languages (English, Malay, Chinese, and Tamil). The suggestion of a 30-day notice and the Government Gazette is wrong because, although the timeframe is sufficient, the publication must occur in four daily newspapers to reach the general public. The requirement for 75% consent before the meeting is wrong because the 75% majority rule applies to the value of participants voting at the meeting to pass a resolution, not as a condition for summoning the meeting.
Takeaway: To validly summon a meeting of participants, a trustee must provide 21 days’ notice via direct mail and advertisements in four daily newspapers representing the main local languages.
Incorrect
Correct: Providing 21 days written notice and advertising in four specific language newspapers is the right answer because the regulations mandate a minimum notice period and broad public disclosure across Singapore’s main languages to ensure all participants are adequately informed of the meeting.
Incorrect: The suggestion of a 14-day notice period and only two newspapers is wrong because the law requires at least 21 days and coverage in four specific languages (English, Malay, Chinese, and Tamil). The suggestion of a 30-day notice and the Government Gazette is wrong because, although the timeframe is sufficient, the publication must occur in four daily newspapers to reach the general public. The requirement for 75% consent before the meeting is wrong because the 75% majority rule applies to the value of participants voting at the meeting to pass a resolution, not as a condition for summoning the meeting.
Takeaway: To validly summon a meeting of participants, a trustee must provide 21 days’ notice via direct mail and advertisements in four daily newspapers representing the main local languages.
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Question 16 of 30
16. Question
A fund management company acting as the responsible person for an authorised collective investment scheme is currently being wound up in a foreign jurisdiction. MAS intends to revoke the scheme’s authorisation. Which statement best describes MAS’s obligation regarding the ‘opportunity to be heard’?
Correct
Correct: MAS is permitted to revoke the authorisation of a scheme without first offering an opportunity to be heard if the responsible person is undergoing winding up or dissolution. This exception applies regardless of whether the winding up occurs in Singapore or in a foreign jurisdiction, as the insolvency status itself triggers the exception to protect the public interest.
Incorrect: The statement that MAS must always provide an opportunity to be heard is incorrect because specific legal exceptions exist for insolvency, bankruptcy, and receivership. The claim that the exception only applies to Singapore-based liquidations is wrong, as the rules explicitly include winding up processes occurring outside Singapore. The idea that MAS must wait for the liquidation to conclude is incorrect; the authority is empowered to act while the process is ongoing to mitigate risks to participants.
Takeaway: The procedural right to be heard before a scheme’s status is revoked is waived in cases of insolvency or bankruptcy to allow for swift regulatory intervention.
Incorrect
Correct: MAS is permitted to revoke the authorisation of a scheme without first offering an opportunity to be heard if the responsible person is undergoing winding up or dissolution. This exception applies regardless of whether the winding up occurs in Singapore or in a foreign jurisdiction, as the insolvency status itself triggers the exception to protect the public interest.
Incorrect: The statement that MAS must always provide an opportunity to be heard is incorrect because specific legal exceptions exist for insolvency, bankruptcy, and receivership. The claim that the exception only applies to Singapore-based liquidations is wrong, as the rules explicitly include winding up processes occurring outside Singapore. The idea that MAS must wait for the liquidation to conclude is incorrect; the authority is empowered to act while the process is ongoing to mitigate risks to participants.
Takeaway: The procedural right to be heard before a scheme’s status is revoked is waived in cases of insolvency or bankruptcy to allow for swift regulatory intervention.
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Question 17 of 30
17. Question
The compliance officer of a Singapore-constituted property fund is reviewing the trust deed to ensure it aligns with the Code on Collective Investment Schemes. The fund is preparing for its upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM) and needs to verify the requirements for manager removal and meeting protocols. Which of the following statements regarding these trust deed provisions are correct?
I. The manager can be removed by a simple majority of participants present and voting at a general meeting, provided no participant is disenfranchised.
II. A general meeting must be convened if requested in writing by at least 25 participants or those representing 5% of the issued units.
III. The financial statements presented at the AGM must be made up to a date not more than four months before the date of the meeting.
IV. The fees and expenses of the fund’s auditor must be fixed by the trustee independently of the participants’ authorization.Correct
Correct: Statement I is correct because the regulatory framework for property funds requires that the trust deed allow for the removal of a manager through a simple majority vote of participants who are present and voting, ensuring participant rights are protected. Statement III is correct because to ensure participants receive timely information, the financial accounts (statement of total return and balance sheet) must be current, specifically dated within four months of the meeting date.
Incorrect: Statement II is incorrect because the threshold to compel a meeting is higher than stated; it requires at least 50 participants or those holding at least 10% of the units, not 25 participants or 5%. Statement IV is incorrect because the power to fix auditor fees resides with the participants at a general meeting, or they may delegate this authority to the manager, but it is not a unilateral power of the trustee.
Takeaway: Property funds must adhere to specific governance standards regarding manager removal, meeting thresholds, and financial reporting timelines to ensure transparency and participant control. Therefore, statements I and III are correct.
Incorrect
Correct: Statement I is correct because the regulatory framework for property funds requires that the trust deed allow for the removal of a manager through a simple majority vote of participants who are present and voting, ensuring participant rights are protected. Statement III is correct because to ensure participants receive timely information, the financial accounts (statement of total return and balance sheet) must be current, specifically dated within four months of the meeting date.
Incorrect: Statement II is incorrect because the threshold to compel a meeting is higher than stated; it requires at least 50 participants or those holding at least 10% of the units, not 25 participants or 5%. Statement IV is incorrect because the power to fix auditor fees resides with the participants at a general meeting, or they may delegate this authority to the manager, but it is not a unilateral power of the trustee.
Takeaway: Property funds must adhere to specific governance standards regarding manager removal, meeting thresholds, and financial reporting timelines to ensure transparency and participant control. Therefore, statements I and III are correct.
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Question 18 of 30
18. Question
Sarah is the manager of a Singapore-authorised property fund. She intends to acquire a new retail mall from an entity within the same corporate group as the manager for an amount representing 6% of the fund’s Net Asset Value. How should Sarah’s firm proceed with this transaction?
Correct
Correct: The firm must announce the transaction immediately and obtain a majority vote at a participants’ meeting where the interested party is excluded from voting. This is required because the transaction value (6%) exceeds the 5% threshold of the property fund’s Net Asset Value (NAV) for interested party transactions.
Incorrect: The suggestion that only an announcement is needed is wrong because the 5% threshold for a mandatory participant vote has been reached. The option allowing the sponsor to vote is incorrect because any person with a commercial, financial, or personal interest in the outcome of the transaction, other than as a participant, is prohibited from voting. The option regarding cash fees and delayed reporting is wrong because manager fees for transactions with interested parties must be paid in units with a one-year lock-up, and announcements must be made immediately rather than in an annual report.
Takeaway: Property funds must obtain disinterested participant approval and provide immediate public disclosure for any interested party transaction that is equal to or greater than 5% of the fund’s NAV.
Incorrect
Correct: The firm must announce the transaction immediately and obtain a majority vote at a participants’ meeting where the interested party is excluded from voting. This is required because the transaction value (6%) exceeds the 5% threshold of the property fund’s Net Asset Value (NAV) for interested party transactions.
Incorrect: The suggestion that only an announcement is needed is wrong because the 5% threshold for a mandatory participant vote has been reached. The option allowing the sponsor to vote is incorrect because any person with a commercial, financial, or personal interest in the outcome of the transaction, other than as a participant, is prohibited from voting. The option regarding cash fees and delayed reporting is wrong because manager fees for transactions with interested parties must be paid in units with a one-year lock-up, and announcements must be made immediately rather than in an annual report.
Takeaway: Property funds must obtain disinterested participant approval and provide immediate public disclosure for any interested party transaction that is equal to or greater than 5% of the fund’s NAV.
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Question 19 of 30
19. Question
Mr. Lim is the newly appointed compliance officer at Apex Capital, a firm intending to operate as a Registered Fund Management Company (RFMC) in Singapore. He is reviewing the firm’s proposed operational limits and the potential legal consequences of failing to maintain the correct licensing status. Which of the following statements regarding the regulatory requirements and penalties for fund management are correct?
I. The firm is limited to serving a maximum of 30 qualified investors, including no more than 15 funds.
II. If the firm upgrades to an A/I LFMC, it will still be restricted to a specific maximum number of qualified investors.
III. Conducting fund management business without a valid license or registration may lead to a fine of up to S$150,000.
IV. The firm may manage funds for retail investors as long as its total assets under management do not exceed S$250 million.Correct
Correct: Statement I is correct because Registered Fund Management Companies (RFMCs) are subject to specific limits, including serving a maximum of 30 qualified investors, of which no more than 15 can be investment funds. Statement III is correct because the law stipulates that any person carrying out a regulated activity like fund management without the appropriate license or registration is liable for a fine of up to S$150,000, imprisonment, or both.
Incorrect: Statement II is incorrect because Licensed Accredited/Institutional Fund Management Companies (A/I LFMCs) are permitted to serve an unlimited number of qualified investors, unlike the RFMC category which has a strict cap. Statement IV is incorrect because RFMCs are only permitted to serve qualified investors; they are strictly prohibited from managing assets for retail investors regardless of their total assets under management.
Takeaway: Fund management companies must operate within the specific investor and asset limits of their regulatory category, as unlicensed activity or breaching these boundaries carries heavy financial and criminal penalties. Therefore, statements I and III are correct.
Incorrect
Correct: Statement I is correct because Registered Fund Management Companies (RFMCs) are subject to specific limits, including serving a maximum of 30 qualified investors, of which no more than 15 can be investment funds. Statement III is correct because the law stipulates that any person carrying out a regulated activity like fund management without the appropriate license or registration is liable for a fine of up to S$150,000, imprisonment, or both.
Incorrect: Statement II is incorrect because Licensed Accredited/Institutional Fund Management Companies (A/I LFMCs) are permitted to serve an unlimited number of qualified investors, unlike the RFMC category which has a strict cap. Statement IV is incorrect because RFMCs are only permitted to serve qualified investors; they are strictly prohibited from managing assets for retail investors regardless of their total assets under management.
Takeaway: Fund management companies must operate within the specific investor and asset limits of their regulatory category, as unlicensed activity or breaching these boundaries carries heavy financial and criminal penalties. Therefore, statements I and III are correct.
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Question 20 of 30
20. Question
A fund manager is preparing to lodge an amendment to the prospectus of an unlisted collective investment scheme. Under what specific circumstance is the manager required to update the Product Highlights Sheet (PHS) associated with this offer?
Correct
Correct: The Product Highlights Sheet (PHS) must be updated if a change to the prospectus has a material effect on the key features and risks of the investment product. This ensures that the summary information provided to investors remains accurate and reflects the most significant aspects of the fund’s risk-return profile.
Incorrect: The suggestion that the PHS must be updated for every single change to the prospectus is incorrect because the requirement is specifically triggered by material impacts on features and risks. Limiting updates only to changes in the manager or trustee is wrong because other material changes, such as shifts in investment strategy or asset allocation, also necessitate an update. Waiting until the prospectus expires to update the PHS is incorrect because the PHS must be updated concurrently with material prospectus changes to avoid misleading investors.
Takeaway: A Product Highlights Sheet must be updated whenever a change to the prospectus materially affects the investment’s key features or risks to ensure investors have current and relevant summary information.
Incorrect
Correct: The Product Highlights Sheet (PHS) must be updated if a change to the prospectus has a material effect on the key features and risks of the investment product. This ensures that the summary information provided to investors remains accurate and reflects the most significant aspects of the fund’s risk-return profile.
Incorrect: The suggestion that the PHS must be updated for every single change to the prospectus is incorrect because the requirement is specifically triggered by material impacts on features and risks. Limiting updates only to changes in the manager or trustee is wrong because other material changes, such as shifts in investment strategy or asset allocation, also necessitate an update. Waiting until the prospectus expires to update the PHS is incorrect because the PHS must be updated concurrently with material prospectus changes to avoid misleading investors.
Takeaway: A Product Highlights Sheet must be updated whenever a change to the prospectus materially affects the investment’s key features or risks to ensure investors have current and relevant summary information.
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Question 21 of 30
21. Question
A fund manager is preparing the prospectus for a new collective investment scheme that includes a Regular Savings Plan (RSP) feature. Which of the following statements regarding the RSP disclosures is NOT correct?
Correct
Correct: The statement regarding the notice period is incorrect because the regulations specify that the notice period required for an investor to cease participation in a Regular Savings Plan must be no longer than the interval between the regular subscriptions. This ensures that the exit process is not unnecessarily delayed beyond the next scheduled payment cycle.
Incorrect: The statement regarding allotment timing is wrong because the prospectus is indeed required to specify when units are allotted to the investor each month. The statement regarding penalties is wrong because it is a mandatory requirement that investors be allowed to cease participation without suffering any penalty. The statement regarding deduction timing is wrong because the prospectus must disclose when monies are deducted from the investor’s account to ensure full transparency of the payment process.
Takeaway: Prospectuses for schemes with Regular Savings Plans must ensure that investors can exit without penalty and that the exit notice period does not exceed the frequency of the subscriptions.
Incorrect
Correct: The statement regarding the notice period is incorrect because the regulations specify that the notice period required for an investor to cease participation in a Regular Savings Plan must be no longer than the interval between the regular subscriptions. This ensures that the exit process is not unnecessarily delayed beyond the next scheduled payment cycle.
Incorrect: The statement regarding allotment timing is wrong because the prospectus is indeed required to specify when units are allotted to the investor each month. The statement regarding penalties is wrong because it is a mandatory requirement that investors be allowed to cease participation without suffering any penalty. The statement regarding deduction timing is wrong because the prospectus must disclose when monies are deducted from the investor’s account to ensure full transparency of the payment process.
Takeaway: Prospectuses for schemes with Regular Savings Plans must ensure that investors can exit without penalty and that the exit notice period does not exceed the frequency of the subscriptions.
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Question 22 of 30
22. Question
Mr. Lee is the manager of a property fund that owns a large shopping mall. The mall has been valued by a specific independent valuation firm for the last two consecutive financial years. As the fund prepares for its next annual audit and valuation cycle, which course of action should Mr. Lee take to remain in compliance with the Code on Collective Investment Schemes?
Correct
Correct: Appointing a different valuation firm is the right answer because the regulations prohibit a valuer from assessing the same property for more than two consecutive financial years. This requirement is intended to safeguard the independence of the valuation process by preventing over-familiarity between the valuer and the fund’s assets.
Incorrect: Re-appointing the firm for a desktop valuation is wrong because the two-year limit applies to any valuation performed by that firm on that specific asset, regardless of the valuation’s depth or the stability of market conditions. Retaining the firm based on disclosure of business transactions is wrong because, while disclosure is required to assess independence, it does not exempt the firm from the mandatory rotation requirement. Seeking trustee approval to waive the rotation is wrong as the regulations do not provide the trustee with the authority to bypass the two-year limit for valuer rotation, even if other valuers are difficult to find.
Takeaway: Property fund managers must ensure that the same valuer does not assess a specific real estate asset for more than two consecutive financial years to maintain independent oversight.
Incorrect
Correct: Appointing a different valuation firm is the right answer because the regulations prohibit a valuer from assessing the same property for more than two consecutive financial years. This requirement is intended to safeguard the independence of the valuation process by preventing over-familiarity between the valuer and the fund’s assets.
Incorrect: Re-appointing the firm for a desktop valuation is wrong because the two-year limit applies to any valuation performed by that firm on that specific asset, regardless of the valuation’s depth or the stability of market conditions. Retaining the firm based on disclosure of business transactions is wrong because, while disclosure is required to assess independence, it does not exempt the firm from the mandatory rotation requirement. Seeking trustee approval to waive the rotation is wrong as the regulations do not provide the trustee with the authority to bypass the two-year limit for valuer rotation, even if other valuers are difficult to find.
Takeaway: Property fund managers must ensure that the same valuer does not assess a specific real estate asset for more than two consecutive financial years to maintain independent oversight.
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Question 23 of 30
23. Question
A fund manager is drafting a prospectus for a newly authorized collective investment scheme (CIS) in Singapore. Which of the following statements accurately reflect the disclosure requirements for such a prospectus?
I. Any comparison of the CIS’s past performance with another investment of similar risk must be made on an offer-to-bid basis.
II. A forecast of future performance is permitted if the CIS is a trust that invests only in real estate and real estate-related assets.
III. The calculation of the expense ratio must include brokerage fees and foreign exchange gains or losses to reflect the total cost of ownership.
IV. The prospectus must disclose whether the manager or sub-manager intends to receive soft dollar commissions in respect of the CIS.Correct
Correct: Statement I is correct because any comparison of a scheme’s past performance with another investment of a similar risk profile must be presented on an offer-to-bid basis to ensure fair comparison. Statement II is correct because while future performance forecasts are generally prohibited, an exception is made for real estate investment trusts, provided they include reasonable assumptions and an auditor’s statement. Statement IV is correct because the prospectus for a new scheme must explicitly state the manager’s intention regarding the receipt of soft dollar commissions.
Incorrect: Statement III is incorrect because the expense ratio calculation is required to exclude specific costs, including brokerage fees, transaction costs, and foreign exchange gains or losses, to provide a standardized view of the fund’s operating costs.
Takeaway: Singapore regulations mandate specific inclusions and exclusions in CIS prospectuses, particularly regarding performance comparisons and cost ratios, to ensure transparency and prevent misleading investors. Therefore, statements I, II and IV are correct.
Incorrect
Correct: Statement I is correct because any comparison of a scheme’s past performance with another investment of a similar risk profile must be presented on an offer-to-bid basis to ensure fair comparison. Statement II is correct because while future performance forecasts are generally prohibited, an exception is made for real estate investment trusts, provided they include reasonable assumptions and an auditor’s statement. Statement IV is correct because the prospectus for a new scheme must explicitly state the manager’s intention regarding the receipt of soft dollar commissions.
Incorrect: Statement III is incorrect because the expense ratio calculation is required to exclude specific costs, including brokerage fees, transaction costs, and foreign exchange gains or losses, to provide a standardized view of the fund’s operating costs.
Takeaway: Singapore regulations mandate specific inclusions and exclusions in CIS prospectuses, particularly regarding performance comparisons and cost ratios, to ensure transparency and prevent misleading investors. Therefore, statements I, II and IV are correct.
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Question 24 of 30
24. Question
A property fund manager recently completed a significant new issuance of units to raise capital. This transaction caused the fund’s investment in income-producing real estate to drop from 80% to 48% of its deposited property. Within what timeframe must the manager restore the real estate investment level to the minimum requirement of 75%?
Correct
Correct: The manager must restore the real estate investment level to 75% within 24 months because the holdings dropped below 50% of the total deposited property following the new unit issuance.
Incorrect: The 12-month restoration period is only applicable if the real estate holdings fall to a level between 50% and 75% of the deposited property. Immediate restoration is not required by the regulations, which provide a specific grace period to allow managers to source and acquire appropriate real estate assets. The idea that no rectification is necessary is incorrect because the exemption from divesting only applies to breaches caused by market fluctuations or redemptions, not to active corporate actions like issuing new units.
Takeaway: Property funds must restore their 75% real estate investment threshold within 12 or 24 months if a breach is caused by divestments or new unit issuances, depending on the severity of the drop.
Incorrect
Correct: The manager must restore the real estate investment level to 75% within 24 months because the holdings dropped below 50% of the total deposited property following the new unit issuance.
Incorrect: The 12-month restoration period is only applicable if the real estate holdings fall to a level between 50% and 75% of the deposited property. Immediate restoration is not required by the regulations, which provide a specific grace period to allow managers to source and acquire appropriate real estate assets. The idea that no rectification is necessary is incorrect because the exemption from divesting only applies to breaches caused by market fluctuations or redemptions, not to active corporate actions like issuing new units.
Takeaway: Property funds must restore their 75% real estate investment threshold within 12 or 24 months if a breach is caused by divestments or new unit issuances, depending on the severity of the drop.
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Question 25 of 30
25. Question
A manager of an unlisted property fund is preparing a mandatory annual redemption offer for its participants. Which of the following statements regarding the requirements for this redemption process is NOT correct?
Correct
Correct: The statement that redemption requests must be satisfied within 14 calendar days is NOT correct because the standard requirement is that these requests must be satisfied within 30 calendar days after the closing date of the offer. This period may be extended to 60 days only if the manager convinces the trustee it is in the fund’s best interest, or even longer if the participants themselves approve the extension.
Incorrect: The statement regarding the offer period duration is correct as the rules require the window to stay open for at least 21 days but no more than 35 days. The statement about leverage limits is correct because while depreciation beyond the manager’s control is not a formal breach, it does legally prevent the manager from taking on any new debt. The statement about redemption frequency is correct because unlisted property funds are required to offer liquidity to participants at least once every year.
Takeaway: Managers of unlisted property funds must provide annual liquidity and satisfy redemption requests within 30 days of the offer closing, while strictly halting new borrowings if leverage limits are exceeded due to falling asset values.
Incorrect
Correct: The statement that redemption requests must be satisfied within 14 calendar days is NOT correct because the standard requirement is that these requests must be satisfied within 30 calendar days after the closing date of the offer. This period may be extended to 60 days only if the manager convinces the trustee it is in the fund’s best interest, or even longer if the participants themselves approve the extension.
Incorrect: The statement regarding the offer period duration is correct as the rules require the window to stay open for at least 21 days but no more than 35 days. The statement about leverage limits is correct because while depreciation beyond the manager’s control is not a formal breach, it does legally prevent the manager from taking on any new debt. The statement about redemption frequency is correct because unlisted property funds are required to offer liquidity to participants at least once every year.
Takeaway: Managers of unlisted property funds must provide annual liquidity and satisfy redemption requests within 30 days of the offer closing, while strictly halting new borrowings if leverage limits are exceeded due to falling asset values.
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Question 26 of 30
26. Question
Mr. Lim, a compliance officer at a fund management firm, has just lodged a new prospectus for a retail collective investment scheme with the MAS. Four days later, the investment team decides to include information regarding the scheme’s inclusion under the CPF Investment Scheme (CPFIS). Which of the following statements accurately describe the regulatory requirements for this process?
I. The MAS will generally register the prospectus between the 7th and 21st day from the initial date of lodgement.
II. Including CPFIS information after the initial lodgement will reset the registration timetable to the date of the amendment.
III. The firm may begin accepting subscription applications once the prospectus is posted on the OPERA website for public comment.
IV. If an amendment is lodged without the consent of the MAS, the prospectus is deemed lodged on the date of that amendment.Correct
Correct: Statement I is correct because the standard registration window for a prospectus is between the 7th and 21st day from the date of lodgement. Statement IV is correct because amendments made without regulatory consent cause the prospectus to be deemed lodged only on the date the amendment was submitted, which effectively resets the registration timeline.
Incorrect: Statement II is incorrect because the inclusion of CPFIS information is specifically treated as an amendment made with regulatory consent, which allows the registration timetable to continue from the original lodgement date without interruption. Statement III is incorrect because it is a legal offence to accept applications or subscriptions for a scheme before the prospectus is officially registered; simply being available for public comment does not permit the firm to take orders.
Takeaway: While most unconsented amendments reset the registration clock, specific updates like CPFIS information do not, and no commercial activity can occur until the registration process is complete. Therefore, statements I and IV are correct.
Incorrect
Correct: Statement I is correct because the standard registration window for a prospectus is between the 7th and 21st day from the date of lodgement. Statement IV is correct because amendments made without regulatory consent cause the prospectus to be deemed lodged only on the date the amendment was submitted, which effectively resets the registration timeline.
Incorrect: Statement II is incorrect because the inclusion of CPFIS information is specifically treated as an amendment made with regulatory consent, which allows the registration timetable to continue from the original lodgement date without interruption. Statement III is incorrect because it is a legal offence to accept applications or subscriptions for a scheme before the prospectus is officially registered; simply being available for public comment does not permit the firm to take orders.
Takeaway: While most unconsented amendments reset the registration clock, specific updates like CPFIS information do not, and no commercial activity can occur until the registration process is complete. Therefore, statements I and IV are correct.
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Question 27 of 30
27. Question
A compliance officer is reviewing the marketing and disclosure materials for a newly proposed property fund to be listed on the exchange. Which of the following statements regarding the disclosure and operational requirements for property funds are NOT correct?
I. Performance for listed property funds is calculated based on the change in the unit price transacted on the stock exchange over the reporting period.
II. Property funds are generally considered to be more diversified than general securities funds because they invest in tangible physical assets.
III. Managers are required to disclose any fees received upon the acquisition of real estate assets in percentage terms or dollar value in the prospectus.
IV. Discounts may be offered to institutional investors subscribing for units at the time of listing to ensure the fund reaches its target size.Correct
Correct: Statement II is correct because property funds are typically less diversified than general securities funds, not more, making this statement an incorrect description of fund risk. Statement IV is correct because the regulations explicitly prohibit offering discounts to institutional investors at the time of listing to ensure fair treatment and transparency.
Incorrect: Statement I is incorrect because it is a factually true statement; the performance of listed property funds is indeed calculated based on the change in unit price on the exchange over the reporting period. Statement III is incorrect because it is a factually true statement; managers are required to provide clear disclosure of acquisition fees in either percentage or dollar terms in the prospectus.
Takeaway: Property funds are characterized by specific risks like lower diversification and are governed by strict rules that mandate fee transparency and prohibit price discounts for institutional investors at listing. Therefore, statements II and IV are correct.
Incorrect
Correct: Statement II is correct because property funds are typically less diversified than general securities funds, not more, making this statement an incorrect description of fund risk. Statement IV is correct because the regulations explicitly prohibit offering discounts to institutional investors at the time of listing to ensure fair treatment and transparency.
Incorrect: Statement I is incorrect because it is a factually true statement; the performance of listed property funds is indeed calculated based on the change in unit price on the exchange over the reporting period. Statement III is incorrect because it is a factually true statement; managers are required to provide clear disclosure of acquisition fees in either percentage or dollar terms in the prospectus.
Takeaway: Property funds are characterized by specific risks like lower diversification and are governed by strict rules that mandate fee transparency and prohibit price discounts for institutional investors at listing. Therefore, statements II and IV are correct.
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Question 28 of 30
28. Question
Sarah is a compliance officer at a Singapore-based fund management firm. She is currently reviewing the draft prospectus for the ‘Global Alpha Hedge Fund,’ a new collective investment scheme intended for retail investors. To ensure the document complies with the specific disclosure requirements for hedge funds, which of the following must Sarah ensure are included?
I. A clear statement on the cover page that the Code does not prescribe investment guidelines for hedge funds, unlike other CIS types.
II. A prominent disclosure that the investment is intended to be a complete investment programme for investors with high risk tolerance.
III. Comprehensive details regarding the hedge fund’s risk management and monitoring procedures and internal controls.
IV. A specific statement confirming that the liability of the investor is limited to their initial investment in the hedge fund.Correct
Correct: Statement I is correct because hedge funds are distinct from other collective investment schemes in that the regulatory Code does not set specific investment guidelines for them, and this must be explicitly stated on the cover page. Statement III is correct because the prospectus must provide transparency regarding how the manager monitors risk and maintains internal controls to protect the fund’s objectives. Statement IV is correct because it is a mandatory disclosure to inform investors that their potential losses are capped at the amount they have invested in the scheme.
Incorrect: Statement II is incorrect because the regulations require the exact opposite disclosure; the prospectus must state that an investment in a hedge fund is NOT intended to be a complete investment programme for any investor. This ensures investors understand the need for portfolio diversification and do not over-concentrate their capital in a single high-risk vehicle.
Takeaway: Hedge fund prospectuses must emphasize that they are not subject to standard investment guidelines and are not meant to serve as a standalone investment solution for a client’s entire portfolio. Therefore, statements I, III and IV are correct.
Incorrect
Correct: Statement I is correct because hedge funds are distinct from other collective investment schemes in that the regulatory Code does not set specific investment guidelines for them, and this must be explicitly stated on the cover page. Statement III is correct because the prospectus must provide transparency regarding how the manager monitors risk and maintains internal controls to protect the fund’s objectives. Statement IV is correct because it is a mandatory disclosure to inform investors that their potential losses are capped at the amount they have invested in the scheme.
Incorrect: Statement II is incorrect because the regulations require the exact opposite disclosure; the prospectus must state that an investment in a hedge fund is NOT intended to be a complete investment programme for any investor. This ensures investors understand the need for portfolio diversification and do not over-concentrate their capital in a single high-risk vehicle.
Takeaway: Hedge fund prospectuses must emphasize that they are not subject to standard investment guidelines and are not meant to serve as a standalone investment solution for a client’s entire portfolio. Therefore, statements I, III and IV are correct.
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Question 29 of 30
29. Question
A fund management company is preparing to lodge a supplementary prospectus for an existing collective investment scheme. Which of the following statements regarding prospectus requirements and exemptions are correct?
I. If a supplementary document is lodged, the offeror has 7 days to notify applicants who applied under the original prospectus on how to obtain it.
II. A prospectus for a collective investment scheme remains valid for a period of 12 months from the date it was lodged with the authority.
III. A corporation is considered an accredited investor if its net assets exceed SGD 10 million, allowing for a prospectus exemption.
IV. The expiration of a prospectus does not render the sale of units void, even if the scheme is offered on an ongoing basis.Correct
Correct: Statement III is correct because a corporation with net assets exceeding SGD 10 million meets the definition of an accredited investor, which is a valid ground for a prospectus exemption. Statement IV is correct because the law explicitly states that the expiration of a prospectus does not automatically invalidate or make void any previous sales or issues of units.
Incorrect: Statement I is incorrect because the requirement is to notify applicants on how to obtain the supplementary document within 2 business days of lodgement, not 7 days. The 7-day period refers to the timeframe for actually providing the documents to the applicants. Statement II is incorrect because the 12-month validity period of a prospectus is calculated from the date of its registration by the regulator, not from the date it was initially lodged.
Takeaway: Fund managers must strictly observe the distinction between registration and lodgement dates for validity and follow specific two-day notification windows when issuing supplementary disclosures to existing applicants. Therefore, statements III and IV are correct.
Incorrect
Correct: Statement III is correct because a corporation with net assets exceeding SGD 10 million meets the definition of an accredited investor, which is a valid ground for a prospectus exemption. Statement IV is correct because the law explicitly states that the expiration of a prospectus does not automatically invalidate or make void any previous sales or issues of units.
Incorrect: Statement I is incorrect because the requirement is to notify applicants on how to obtain the supplementary document within 2 business days of lodgement, not 7 days. The 7-day period refers to the timeframe for actually providing the documents to the applicants. Statement II is incorrect because the 12-month validity period of a prospectus is calculated from the date of its registration by the regulator, not from the date it was initially lodged.
Takeaway: Fund managers must strictly observe the distinction between registration and lodgement dates for validity and follow specific two-day notification windows when issuing supplementary disclosures to existing applicants. Therefore, statements III and IV are correct.
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Question 30 of 30
30. Question
Mr. Lim, a client with a previously dormant investment account, suddenly receives a large credit from an overseas entity. He immediately requests to withdraw the entire balance in cash to pay for an “urgent business opportunity.” How should the fund management company’s representative proceed?
Correct
Correct: Investigating the plausibility of the client’s explanation and considering a report is the right answer because transactions involving immediate withdrawals of large credits from abroad, especially from dormant accounts, are classic indicators of potential money laundering. Intermediaries are required to scrutinize such activities and verify the background of the transaction rather than accepting declarations at face value.
Incorrect: Accepting the explanation without scrutiny is wrong because firms must verify the plausibility of a customer’s claims rather than taking them at face value to maintain a relationship. Suggesting the client split the withdrawal into amounts under S$20,000 is wrong as it encourages “structuring” to evade detection and constitutes a serious compliance failure. Terminating the relationship and notifying the client of an investigation is wrong because “tipping off” a client about a suspicious transaction investigation is prohibited and could interfere with law enforcement efforts.
Takeaway: Financial professionals must identify and investigate transactions that lack economic sense or involve unusual cash movements, especially when they involve dormant accounts or unexplained overseas credits.
Incorrect
Correct: Investigating the plausibility of the client’s explanation and considering a report is the right answer because transactions involving immediate withdrawals of large credits from abroad, especially from dormant accounts, are classic indicators of potential money laundering. Intermediaries are required to scrutinize such activities and verify the background of the transaction rather than accepting declarations at face value.
Incorrect: Accepting the explanation without scrutiny is wrong because firms must verify the plausibility of a customer’s claims rather than taking them at face value to maintain a relationship. Suggesting the client split the withdrawal into amounts under S$20,000 is wrong as it encourages “structuring” to evade detection and constitutes a serious compliance failure. Terminating the relationship and notifying the client of an investigation is wrong because “tipping off” a client about a suspicious transaction investigation is prohibited and could interfere with law enforcement efforts.
Takeaway: Financial professionals must identify and investigate transactions that lack economic sense or involve unusual cash movements, especially when they involve dormant accounts or unexplained overseas credits.