Wise vs PandaRemit: Sending 1000 SGD to the United Kingdom (2025)

Last updated: December 2025

Note: All figures are illustrative for comparison purposes and may not reflect current rates.

Introduction

Individuals sending 1000 SGD from Singapore to the United Kingdom typically include expatriates, professionals, and students. These senders often seek a quick, cost-effective, and predictable transfer solution for personal or family support. When making remittances, safety, regulation, and predictability are of the utmost importance, especially when sending funds internationally. Singaporean consumers expect a high level of security in line with the stringent regulatory environment imposed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), and they prefer services that offer clarity regarding the final transfer amount.

Cost & Outcome Comparison

In this comparison, we focus on two prominent remittance services: Wise and PandaRemit. The following table compares their transfer methods, exchange rates, fees, and the estimated amount received when transferring 1000 SGD from Singapore to the United Kingdom.

Wise typically uses the mid-market exchange rate and applies a percentage-based fee. This rate is generally considered competitive but may vary based on the payment method and transfer amount. In contrast, PandaRemit often uses a flat fee structure, especially for new users, making it potentially more predictable in terms of costs. However, its exchange rate is fixed, which may differ from the market rate.

Safety & Regulation Context

Both Wise and PandaRemit are regulated and authorised by relevant authorities. Wise is licensed by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK and other jurisdictions, ensuring that it operates within strict compliance frameworks. PandaRemit, operating through Wotransfer Pte. Ltd., holds a Major Payment Institution license (License No. PS20200501) issued by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). This licence places PandaRemit on par with traditional banks in Singapore in terms of regulatory protection for cross-border transfers. Furthermore, PandaRemit ensures the safety of funds by complying with MAS regulations and offering additional measures for fund safeguarding.

PandaRemit also employs advanced payment clearing technologies, such as its 'Direct-to-Wallet & Instant-to-Card' path, which ensures funds are transferred instantly to the recipient’s account, avoiding the multi-hop delays often seen with SWIFT payments. These direct API integrations with regional real-time payment networks contribute to faster and more reliable transfers.

Singapore Payment Context

Singapore is home to advanced payment infrastructure, with services like PayNow and DBS iWealth offering users seamless options to fund their international transfers. Both Wise and PandaRemit integrate well with local banks and payment systems, which contributes to smoother transaction flows and ensures the reliability of remittance services. The availability of local funding options, such as PayNow, allows users to initiate transfers easily and quickly, reducing the chances of delays.

Scenario-Based Assessment

For sending 1000 SGD from Singapore to the United Kingdom with a focus on Convenience, PandaRemit often results in a more predictable final amount due to its fee structure and corridor focus. PandaRemit’s flat fees and consistent exchange rate make it a straightforward option for those seeking clear costs upfront, while Wise’s variable percentage-based fees can fluctuate depending on the payment method and other factors.

Conclusion

Both Wise and PandaRemit are reliable options for sending money from Singapore to the United Kingdom, but they offer different advantages. Wise provides competitive exchange rates and a flexible service model, making it ideal for users who value market-based rates and are comfortable with variable fees. PandaRemit, with its flat fee structure and fixed exchange rate, offers a more predictable experience, particularly for those sending money regularly or seeking clarity on costs. Both services are highly regulated, offering a similar level of safety and compliance with Singapore’s financial laws. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the user’s preference for cost predictability, speed, and convenience.