The Definitive Guide to the Best Audit Firms in Singapore (2025/2026 Edition)
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The Definitive Guide to the Best Audit Firms in Singapore (2025/2026 Edition)
In Singapore’s rigorous regulatory environment, choosing an audit firm is more than a compliance box-check—it is a strategic decision that affects your company's credibility, investor relations, and operational efficiency. Whether you are a high-growth startup, an SME, or a multinational corporation (MNC), the "right" auditor depends on your scale, industry, and complexity.
In this guide, we categorize the top-tier, mid-tier, and boutique audit firms in Singapore to help you find the partner that aligns with your business goals.
1. The "Big Four": Global Giants for MNCs and Publicly Listed Entities
The Big Four dominate the global landscape and are the go-to choices for companies listed on the SGX or those with complex cross-border operations.
Deloitte Singapore: Known for its deep technical resources and robust internal controls. Best for large-scale risk management and complex tax advisory.
PwC Singapore (PricewaterhouseCoopers): A leader in digital transformation and ESG reporting. PwC is often preferred for M&A and strategic financial advisory.
EY Singapore (Ernst & Young): Renowned for its innovation-driven audit framework and strong focus on the tech and finance sectors.
KPMG Singapore: Highly regarded for its IPO readiness services and sustainability governance.
2. Leading Mid-Tier Firms: High Quality, Greater Agility
For mid-cap companies and regional enterprises, mid-tier firms offer "Big Four" quality but often with more direct partner involvement and competitive fee structures.
RSM Singapore: The largest accounting and audit firm outside the Big Four. RSM is the specialist for growing SMEs and regional businesses looking to scale.
BDO Singapore: Part of the world’s 5th largest network. They excel in business restructuring and risk advisory.
Baker Tilly TFW: A top-10 firm in Singapore known for its excellence in statutory audits and IPO advisory.
Mazars Singapore: A globally integrated firm that is particularly strong in serving European-linked MNCs and fast-growing Asian startups.
Crowe Singapore: A member of a top-10 global network, specializing in public-listed entities and financial institutions.
3. Specialized & Boutique Firms: Tailored for SMEs and Startups
Smaller firms often provide the most value for startups and localized SMEs that require high-touch service at a lower price point.
Foo Kon Tan: One of Singapore’s oldest firms, focusing on mid-cap and family-owned businesses.
Nexia Singapore PAC: Offers a full suite of audit and advisory services with a personal touch.
Bestar Singapore: An emerging player known for dedicated financial solutions for startups and cost-effective internal audits.
How to Choose the Right Audit Firm: A 5-Point Checklist
To ensure you aren’t just paying for a brand name, evaluate your prospective auditor against these criteria:
1. ACRA Registration & Compliance
Ensure the firm is registered with the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA). Public accountants must be members of the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) to sign off on statutory audits.
2. Industry-Specific Experience
Audit requirements for a construction firm (progress billing) differ vastly from a Fintech startup (crypto-asset compliance). Ask for case studies or client references within your specific niche.
3. Technology & Digital Capabilities
The best modern firms use cloud-based portals (like Xero or QuickBooks integration) and data analytics to identify anomalies. This reduces manual errors and ensures a faster audit turnaround.
4. Responsiveness and Communication
A common complaint in the industry is "ghosting" by auditors during peak seasons. Look for firms that guarantee a response time (e.g., 24-48 hours) and provide a dedicated account manager.
5. Transparency in Fee Structure
Avoid "hidden" charges. Ensure the quote includes all disbursements and clearly states what is required for the audit to stay within the estimated hours.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does my company need an audit in Singapore?
Under the "Small Company" audit exemption, your company does not need an audit if it meets at least two of the following criteria in the last two consecutive financial years:
Total annual revenue ≤ S$10 million.
Total assets ≤ S$10 million.
Number of employees ≤ 50.
When is the deadline for filing audited financial statements?
For most companies, the audited financial statements must be presented at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) and filed with ACRA within 7 months of the financial year-end.
How much do audit services cost in Singapore?
Fees typically start from S$1,000–S$3,000 for small, dormant, or low-transaction companies and can scale to S$50,000+ for complex mid-tier entities.
Conclusion
Selecting a top audit firm in Singapore is a balance between brand reputation and service personalization. While the Big Four offer prestige, mid-tier firms like RSM or Baker Tilly provide exceptional value for growing businesses. Always prioritize a firm that understands your industry and leverages technology to make your compliance journey seamless.
Why Bestar is the Right Audit Firm for Your Singapore Business (2026 Guide)
The Definitive Guide to the Best Audit Firms in Singapore (2025/2026 Edition)
Looking for the best audit firm in Singapore? Discover why Bestar’s ACRA-registered experts are the preferred choice for statutory audits, internal controls, and MAS compliance.
In a global financial hub like Singapore, audit compliance isn't just a legal requirement—it’s a badge of transparency that builds trust with investors, banks, and the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA).
While the "Big Four" are often the default for MNCs, many high-growth SMEs and startups find that Bestar offers the perfect balance of global standards and personalized, cost-effective service. Here is why Bestar stands out as the premier choice for audit and assurance in Singapore.
1. ACRA-Registered Excellence and ISCA Membership
When choosing an auditor, the first "must-have" is regulatory licensing. Bestar operates as an ACRA-registered Public Accounting Corporation (PAC).
Professional Standards: As members of the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA), Bestar’s auditors adhere to the highest ethical and professional frameworks.
Liability Protection: Bestar is fully insured against professional liability, giving business owners peace of mind that their financial integrity is in safe hands.
2. Comprehensive Audit & Assurance Suite
Bestar provides a "one-stop" ecosystem for financial health. Unlike firms that only handle year-end filings, Bestar integrates audit with strategic advisory:
Statutory Audits: Ensuring full compliance with Singapore Financial Reporting Standards (SFRS).
Internal Audits & Risk Management: Identifying operational bottlenecks and fraud risks before they impact your bottom line.
Specialized Audits: Expertise in Grant Claims Audits (for ESG or EDB grants), M&A Due Diligence, and MCST Audits.
MAS Compliance: Specialized assurance for Fund Management Companies (FMCs) and Financial Institutions.
3. The "Boutique" Advantage: Personalized & Agile
The most common complaint regarding larger firms is the lack of senior-level attention. Bestar solves this through:
Direct Partner Involvement: Clients work directly with experienced leaders like Catherine Yau (Audit Leader) and Angela Tan (Tax & Family Office Leader).
Scalable Solutions: Whether you are a "Small Company" exempt from audit but seeking voluntary assurance, or a complex group requiring consolidated accounts, Bestar scales its fee structure and team size accordingly.
Transparent Pricing: Bestar is known for competitive, "no-surprise" pricing, typically starting around S$3,000 for mid-tier engagements—a fraction of Big Four costs without sacrificing quality.
4. Next-Gen "Digital First" Audit Approach
In 2026, manual auditing is obsolete. Bestar leverages AI-powered digital technology and cloud integrations (Xero, QuickBooks) to:
Increase Accuracy: Reducing human error through automated data verification.
Faster Turnaround: Streamlined workflows mean your audited financial statements are ready for AGMs and ACRA filings well ahead of deadlines.
Strategic Insights: Bestar moves beyond "pass/fail" reporting to provide data-driven recommendations on cost optimization and resource allocation.
Comparison: Why Choose Bestar Over Competitors?
Feature | The Big Four | Boutique/Small Firms | Bestar Singapore |
Primary Client | Global MNCs / Listed | Small Local Shops | SMEs, Startups & MNCs |
Service Style | Standardized / Junior-led | High-touch / Limited Scope | Personalized / Expert-led |
Fee Structure | Premium / High | Budget / Low | Competitive / Value-driven |
Tech Adoption | Very High | Low to Medium | High (Digital-First) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my startup exempt from an audit?
Under Singapore law, your company is exempt if it meets at least two of these:
Revenue < S$10M
Assets < S$10M
Employees < 50
However, Bestar often recommends voluntary audits for startups seeking Series A/B funding to prove financial validity to VCs.
How long does an audit with Bestar take?
A typical statutory audit takes between 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the complexity of the accounts and the readiness of the company’s internal documentation.
Can Bestar help with international subsidiaries?
Yes. Bestar has extensive experience in Group Financial Audits, managing consolidated accounts for Singapore-based holding companies with subsidiaries across Asia and Europe.
Conclusion: Compliance as a Competitive Edge
Choosing Bestar means moving away from "checking a box" and moving toward strategic financial health. With a combination of ACRA-licensed rigor, digital efficiency, and deep local expertise, Bestar ensures your business is not just compliant, but optimized for growth.
Ready to streamline your audit process? Contact Bestar Singapore today for a customized quote.
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