Buy Now, Pay Later - Code of Conduct (“BNPL Code”)
The BNPL Code aims to set best practice standards for the sector and strengthen consumer protection, while fostering the safe growth of this innovative market in Singapore. BNPL providers commit to abide by the terms laid out in the BNPL Code administered by the Singapore Fintech Association. The BNPL scheme is a service that is not regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. Nonetheless, Atome is licensed as a Major Payment Institution under the Payment Services Act 2019 to conduct payment services - Account Issuance Service, Domestic Money Transfer Service, Cross-border Money Transfer Service and Merchant Acquisition Service.
Some of the key industry-agreed standards include:
- Creditworthiness safeguards: Consumers may be granted a credit limit of more than SGD 2,000 when they complete additional credit assessment and it satisfies the BNPL Provider's internal credit assessment checks
- Fair, transparent fees, and clear disclosures: There will be a cap on all fees, including late fees and other charges. Fees and interest, if any, will not be compounded. All fees and fee-related structures will also be communicated in a manner that is clear and transparent to customers.
- Ethical marketing practices: Advertising and promotional materials will be clear and not misleading or deceptive.
- Accommodation for voluntary exceptions once this has been communicated via writing by the consumer.
- Extending financial hardship assistance to consumers facing financial hardships.
For further information surrounding the BNPL Code and our Complaints approach, please click the links below.