Mastercard to Hire 250 Staff in Singapore by 2029
New Innovation Centre of Excellence expands regional workforce and AI development capabilities.
1Strategic Workforce Expansion
Mastercard announced plans to hire 250 additional employees for its Asia-Pacific headquarters in Singapore by the end of 2029. This expansion will increase the local workforce to over 1,000 people. The company currently employs 850 staff, positioning the Singapore office as a critical hub for regional market support and operations.
2New Innovation Hub Launch
The hiring announcement coincided with the opening of Mastercard’s first Asia-Pacific Innovation Centre of Excellence at DUO Tower. Spanning 7,200 square feet, the facility currently houses 55 specialists. These experts focus on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, customer experience, and rapid prototyping to address complex challenges within the regional digital commerce ecosystem.
3Focus on Advanced Technologies
The new centre integrates four distinct units: an AI Centre of Excellence, a Fusion Centre, an Experience Centre, and a Makerspace. These departments collaborate to develop commerce tools and fraud prevention solutions for over 40 regional markets. The facility also enables partners to test emerging technologies through immersive demonstrations and prototyping.
4Government and Talent Synergy
Minister for Energy, Trade and Industry Tan See Leng emphasized the importance of investing in local talent pipelines. Mastercard has already recruited over 100 early-career professionals through its graduate development programme. The government views this partnership as a vital investment in Singapore’s long-term competitiveness and future leadership capabilities within technology.
5AI-Driven Commerce Solutions
The centre aims to scale innovations beyond experimentation, such as AI agents capable of booking transport or assisting with purchases. Mastercard previously collaborated with DBS and UOB in 2026 to complete live authenticated agentic payment transactions. These tools are designed to provide consumers with personalized product recommendations while maintaining user control.
6Risk Mitigation and Security
Beyond commerce, the facility monitors emerging threats, including cybersecurity risks, geopolitical instability, and fraud. By working with partners like Interpol, the Singapore Police Force, and the Cyber Security Agency, Mastercard intends to protect the global payment ecosystem. These proactive measures help small and medium enterprises assess supplier risks using anonymized data.
7Digital Economy Context
Singapore’s digital economy reached $144.1 billion in 2025, representing 19.3% of the nation’s gross domestic product. Mastercard’s investment is intended to build on this momentum by anchoring specialized AI and data science capabilities locally. This initiative supports the broader national ambition of helping local businesses harness technology to compete globally.
8Long-term Regional Commitment
Jon Huntsman, Mastercard’s vice-chairman, stated that this investment reflects the company’s confidence in Singapore’s future. By fostering collaboration between global firms and local enterprises, the centre aims to create high-quality jobs. The strongest ideas developed in Singapore may eventually be adopted globally, reinforcing the city-state's role in international innovation.
Original article: The Straits Times – Singapore — Mastercard to Hire 250 Staff in Singapore by 2029