From late 2021 to 2022, nonfungible tokens (NFTs) exploded in popularity, dominating global headlines and online conversations. Buzzwords like Bored Ape, CryptoPunks, minting and metaverse were heard in every corner. But, while NFTs can be bought and sold on the blockchain, does owning an NFT mean you own the trademark for it? Let’s dive into it.
Can NFT artwork be trademarked in Singapore?
Yes, if it meets requirements.
The NFT artwork itself can be trademarked if it is used as a brand to identify the source of goods or services, and it has to meet the standard requirements for all trademark applications.
- Acts as a badge of origin (brand identifier)
- Capable of being represented graphically for the purposes of registration
- Distinct from other goods/ services
- Be used consistently in trade and not just sold as art
What happens to the trademark rights when my NFT is transferred?
Does buying the NFT mean you own the trademark? No, trademark ownership does not transfer automatically and must be done in writing.
Typically, the rights you receive include:
- Ownership rights of the token
- Rights to resell the token
- Rights to display for personal use
- Sometimes access to exclusive membership benefits
Using your NFT for a global brand
When using your NFT for a global brand, your NFT may be protected on the blockchain, but what about your trademarks?
Registering for a trademark in Singapore limits your protection only to the country. Trademark rights are territorial. Instead, consider filing your trademarks through the Madrid Protocol (if applicable) on top of a Singapore trademark registration.
The Madrid Protocol is a system that allows you to file a single trademark application with one set of payments but covers you internationally across 132 countries (as of January 2026).
Trademark classification for NFTs
Singapore follows the NICE classification of goods and services when registering trademarks.
NFTs are commonly registered under these categories:
Class 9 – For downloadable digital assets / NFTs
e.g.
A brand registering their logo as downloadable art to be used in a metaverse gallery.
Virtual clothing for avatars.
Digital artwork and brand imagery.
Class 35 – For retail services relating to NFTs (marketplaces for NFTs)
e.g.
Online marketplaces for NFTs.
Retail services for virtual goods.
Class 41 – For virtual entertainment and experiences
e.g.
Virtual art galleries
Virtual tours and training
Class 42 – For minting NFTs and other NFT & blockchain technology services
e.g.
Blockchain development
Designing virtual spaces
Designing software for minting and managing NFTs.
Why trademark NFTs in Singapore?
There are a myriad of reasons why you should trademark your NFTs, but here are some more noteworthy ones to consider.
- Protecting Your NFT Brand
Just as it would for a physical company, trademarking your NFT brand name will protect your project from potential copycats. This is essential for building long term brand value and distinctiveness from the crowd.
- Monetisation
Building a strong brand presence for your NFTs will allow you to build value, opening doors for merchandising and licensing. This can potentially grow to expansion in games and the metaverse.
- Futureproofing Your Brand
Since its peak in 2021, the hype around NFTs has dropped significantly. That said, we cannot guarantee that they are gone for good. If NFTs do make a big comeback, especially with more practical real-world uses, brands that have planned ahead will find themselves at an advantage.
Technology trends may rise and fall but strong branding can outlive these fluctuations, beyond NFTs.
- Investment and Partnerships
A combination of the above helps to strengthen investor and partner confidence. Registering trademarks reduces legal risk and shows you are taking your brand seriously, making it more attractive to potential collaborators.
NFTs exist on the blockchain, but trademark rights still operate in the real world. In Singapore, creators can secure their names, logo, artwork – the core elements of their brand.
Before embarking on your next NFT project, make sure to understand how to protect your IP. For any enquiries or clarification, feel free to reach out to us before starting on your blockchain journey.