What is the Register of Registrable Controllers (RORC) and must my company maintain one?

Yes — most companies must set up and maintain an RORC and lodge the information with ACRA's central register. To improve corporate transparency and combat money laundering, Singapore requires most companies and foreign companies to set up and maintain a Register of Registrable Controllers (RORC). A controller is generally an individual or entity that directly or indirectly holds more than 25% of shares or voting rights, or that has significant control or influence over the company. A company must set up the register within 30 days of incorporation, identify and record controller information, and lodge that information with the central register maintained by ACRA; it must update the register promptly when details change. This obligation is usually handled by the corporate secretary, including sending controller notices, verifying identities and keeping records. Failing to maintain the RORC is an offence and can be penalised. Few entities are exempt (e.g. listed companies, financial institutions).