Industry News

Netflix has retained its dominant position in Singapore’s streaming market, boasting a market share four times greater than that of Apple TV+, according to a recent report by JustWatch. The report, which analyses data from 46,000 monthly users in Singapore, reveals significant shifts in the streaming landscape throughout 2024.

In the final quarter of 2024, Netflix continued to lead, whilst Prime Video and Disney+ were neck and neck for the second spot. The report also highlights the emergence of Max, which saw an impressive 8% increase in market share following its rebranding in November. Meanwhile, Apple TV+ and Catchplay experienced growth of 3% and 2%, respectively, since the beginning of the year.

Conversely, both Prime Video and Netflix faced declines, with market shares decreasing by 2% and 3%, respectively. These changes reflect the evolving preferences and engagement patterns of Singaporean viewers with various streaming platforms.

JustWatch, an international streaming guide with 55 million users across 140 countries, compiled the report to provide insights into the streaming industry’s dynamics. The data underscores the competitive nature of the market and the ongoing battle for viewer attention among major streaming services.

As the streaming landscape continues to evolve, platforms are likely to adapt their strategies to capture and retain audiences in Singapore. The report’s findings offer a glimpse into the shifting trends and consumer behaviours that will shape the future of streaming in the region.
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Teva Singapore has announced an exclusive partnership with Mandai Wildlife Group to launch a curated collection of adventure-ready footwear for the new Rainforest Wild ASIA park at Mandai Wildlife Reserve. The park, set to open on 12 March 2025, will feature eight zones that replicate a Southeast Asian rainforest, housing 36 species, including the François’ langur and Philippine spotted deer, both new to Singapore.

The collaboration will see Teva releasing six key footwear styles designed to navigate the park’s diverse terrains. These styles will be available for purchase at the park’s retail shop. Additionally, guests can enjoy free delivery on online purchases using a special code from the pop-up, along with an exclusive gift for using the code.

Visitors to the event can also participate in photo opportunities and receive complimentary jagua tattoo sessions. By posting a photo and tagging @tevasingapore and @mandaiwildlifereserve with #TEVAxMANDAI, guests can engage in these experiences.

This partnership not only enhances the visitor experience at Rainforest Wild ASIA but also highlights Teva’s commitment to creating functional and stylish footwear for outdoor adventures. The launch marks a significant step in promoting eco-tourism and wildlife conservation in Singapore.
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Singapore Management University (SMU) has announced significant updates to its Industry Practice Master of Digital Economy (IPMDE) programme, set to take effect in August 2025. The revamp introduces 14 new Industry Graduate Diplomas (IGDs), offering professionals a modular and flexible learning pathway aligned with Singapore’s focus on lifelong learning.

The IPMDE, first launched in January 2024, currently boasts over 130 learners. The new structure allows participants to earn an IGD by completing a curated set of modules, which can be stacked towards the full master’s certification. This approach aims to equip learners with in-demand skills whilst accommodating their professional commitments.

Professor Gary Pan, SMU’s Academic Director for Lifelong Learning, highlighted the programme’s focus on mid-career professionals and aspiring leaders. “With the introduction of Industry Graduate Diplomas, learners will have a more accessible and customisable pathway to upskilling,” he stated.

Jack Lim, Executive Director of SMU Academy, emphasised the institution’s role in preparing a future-ready workforce. “Through our extensive range of programmes and deep industry partnerships, we continue to shape Singapore’s professional landscape,” he said.

The revamped IPMDE includes a modular curriculum, personalised learning pathways, and recognition of prior learning, enhancing accessibility for professionals. The programme is highly subsidised, with up to 90% funding by SkillsFuture Singapore, making it one of the most affordable master’s programmes in the country. Registration is now open, with the new structure commencing in August 2025.
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Lady M has announced the launch of its first-ever sake-infused Mille Crêpes, crafted in collaboration with Dassai 23 sake. This new creation will be available from 8 March 2025 in all Lady M boutiques and online for a limited time. The cake features layers of delicate crêpes, sake-soaked vanilla sponge, and sake kasu pastry cream, topped with a white chocolate sake kasu glaze, powdered sugar, and gold leaf.

The inclusion of sake kasu, imported directly from Dassai in Japan, enhances the cake’s flavour profile with its natural sweetness, umami richness, and subtle nuttiness. This ingredient enriches the pastry cream, providing a silky texture and refined complexity.

The Dassai Sake Mille Crêpes is priced at $16 per slice in boutiques, $18 per slice at the Lady M Champagne Bar, and $198 for a whole cake online. This limited-edition cake is available for purchase online and in all Singapore Lady M boutiques.
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Singaporean female entrepreneurs are achieving global success by launching their brands on Amazon, reaching millions of customers worldwide. As International Women’s Day approaches, stories of these trailblazing women highlight their innovative contributions across various sectors, from pet products to lifestyle goods.

Ruth, founder of RaceHerd, left the corporate world to pursue her passion for dogs, creating science-backed toys that cater to dogs’ natural herding instincts. Her signature herding ball has gained popularity in markets including Canada, Australia, and the UK. “Seeing my ideas transform into products that make dogs happy is the most rewarding part of what I do,” Ruth shared.

Yvon, CEO and founder of Hegen, revolutionised the baby care industry with the Sqround bottle, featuring a unique Press-To-Close, Twist-To-Open design. Despite initial scepticism, her innovation has set Hegen apart, allowing the brand to expand from the US to Amazon.sg. Yvon encourages entrepreneurs to “dream big and never limit what you can achieve.”

Ann and Christina, co-founders of Nook Theory, launched their lifestyle brand during the pandemic, offering eco-friendly home products. Their brand now thrives on Amazon, reaching customers in the US, Canada, and Mexico. Christina advises, “Don’t overthink; just take that first step.”

Riyana, founder of Everiday Foods, turned her passion for holistic health into a successful business, offering authentic Asian pantry staples on Amazon. She emphasises the importance of authenticity, stating, “Building a strong brand identity matters more than size.”

These entrepreneurs exemplify the power of innovation and resilience, inspiring others to pursue their dreams on a global stage.
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FairPrice Group (FPG) is marking SG60 with the launch of its ‘FairPrice Best Sellers for Less’ campaign, offering 60 special deals on its popular Own Brands products from 6 March to 28 May 2025. The initiative aims to help Singaporeans stretch their dollar by providing weekly discounts on five housebrand items, starting with up to 36% off on Canola Oil, Thai White Fragrant Rice, Two-ply Bathroom Tissues, Roasted Chicken Mid Wings, and Tortilla Chips.

The campaign will span 12 weeks, featuring a variety of products including kitchen and bathroom essentials, as well as snack items. FPG’s Own Brands, which includes over 3,500 products, are typically priced 10 to 15% cheaper than branded alternatives. Vipul Chawla, Group CEO of FairPrice Group, noted the popularity of these products, stating, “Today, one in two shoppers check out with an FPG Own Brands product in their basket.”

Since the beginning of 2025, FPG has implemented several initiatives to support Singaporeans, such as doubling discounts for CHAS Blue and Orange cardholders and freezing prices on popular produce during the Chinese New Year season. The ‘Best Sellers for Less’ campaign is part of FPG’s ongoing efforts to provide value and quality to its customers, ensuring they have the essentials needed to celebrate SG60. For more information, customers can visit the FairPrice Group website.
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ESET, a global leader in cybersecurity, has announced the launch of its 2025 Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship in Singapore, coinciding with International Women’s Day on 8 March. This initiative aims to empower women in the cybersecurity and STEM fields by providing financial support and career advancement opportunities. The scholarship offers a $3,700 (S$ 5,000) grant and a one-day attachment at ESET’s Singapore office for hands-on experience.

The scholarship comes at a time when the cybersecurity sector in Singapore remains predominantly male, with women comprising just 26.2% of the workforce. ESET’s President for Asia Pacific and Japan, Parvinder Walia, emphasised the importance of diversity in driving innovation within the industry, stating, “As cyber threats continue to evolve, diversity is essential for driving innovation. By investing in these future leaders, we are strengthening global cybersecurity and contributing to a safer digital world.”

Since its inception in 2016, the ESET Women in Cybersecurity Scholarship has supported over 28 women globally. The programme is now expanding to Singapore and India in 2025, alongside existing initiatives in the US, Canada, Australia, and the UK.

Applications for the scholarship will be open from 8 March to 25 April 2025. It is available to Singaporean citizens or permanent residents enrolled in a cybersecurity or STEM programme. The selection process will consider academic excellence, leadership, community involvement, and commitment to the field. The winner will be announced in June 2025.
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iShopChangi has unveiled its March Spring Sale, offering travellers and non-travellers alike the opportunity to enjoy significant savings on a wide range of products. Running until 31 March 2025, the sale features tax-free prices on luxury fashion, beauty products, and travel essentials from renowned brands such as GUCCI, SK-II, and Braun Büffel. In celebration of International Women’s Day, the sale also highlights women-led brands, providing a platform for female entrepreneurs to showcase their offerings.

The Spring Sale includes exclusive promo codes, allowing shoppers to save up to 60% on their purchases. For instance, a minimum spend of S$150 can earn a 12% discount, capped at S$50, whilst a S$500 spend offers a 20% discount, capped at S$250. Mastercard users can enjoy an 18% discount on a minimum spend of S$350, capped at S$80.

Amongst the featured products are the GUCCI Women’s Flora Gorgeous Gardenia Eau De Parfum Spring Gift Set, priced at S$228.30, and the Anker MagGo Ultra-Slim Power Bank, available for S$99.88. Additionally, the sale includes exclusive travel and beauty finds, such as the SK-II Facial Treatment Essence Duo Set for S$491.80 and the Isle of Leomhann Single Malt for S$131.60.

iShopChangi’s initiative not only offers substantial savings but also supports female-led brands like Dr Ora, Scent Journer, and Bohème SG. Wynnie Tham of Dr Ora, Joyce Lian of Scent Journer, and Veronique Manchharam of Bohème SG are among the entrepreneurs featured, each bringing unique products to the market.

The sale also includes special offers for new iShopChangi shoppers and Changi Pay users, with discounts available on their first purchases. Non-travellers can enjoy tax-absorbed prices with free delivery on orders over S$59, whilst travellers can shop up to 30 days in advance and collect their purchases at Changi Airport.

Launched in 2013, iShopChangi continues to enhance the shopping experience for both travellers and local residents, providing access to over 30,000 products from 900 brands. The March Spring Sale is a testament to its commitment to offering convenience and value to its customers.
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Singapore’s CUBE Boutique Capsule Hotels has unveiled its latest venture, CUBE Social@Boat Quay, a social capsule hotel that combines affordable luxury with a community atmosphere. Situated in a restored heritage shophouse along the Singapore River, this new property aims to attract savvy travellers seeking both comfort and social interaction.

The hotel features 72 premium capsules, 13 private rooms, and a women-only section, all designed with high-quality amenities such as plush mattresses, 300-thread count linen, and sound insulation for a restful stay. Guests can enjoy shared spaces including a bar lounge, verandah with river views, and a private soundproof booth for teleconversations.

CEO Mohd K Rafin highlighted the hotel’s unique blend of heritage charm and modern amenities, stating, “CUBE Social is redesigned to provide well-travelled guests with affordable premium lifestyle capsule accommodation and a space that encourages social interaction within an elegant setting.”

The location offers easy access to Singapore’s Civic District and its cultural landmarks, making it an attractive destination for both locals and tourists. Founder and COO Sonia Anya Tay noted, “Our guests appreciate the premium capsule accommodations, safety, and cleanliness, and the vibrant, community-oriented atmosphere in our shared spaces.”

CUBE Hospitality is open to franchising and joint ventures, with plans to expand into Southeast Asian countries such as Bali, Vietnam, and Hong Kong. Rates at CUBE Social@Boat Quay start from $62 (S$85) per night, offering a budget-friendly yet upscale experience for travellers.
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Manulife has announced a significant milestone in its digital transformation journey, with 75% of its global workforce now actively engaged with GenAI-powered solutions. This development is part of a broader multi-billion-dollar investment in digital capabilities, including the introduction of ChatMFC, a proprietary GenAI assistant that saves employees up to two hours weekly. The company expects these advancements to generate a threefold return on investment by 2027.

The AI integration spans various business functions, such as sales enablement tools developed in Singapore, which are now being rolled out globally to provide personalised insights for financial consultants. Additionally, AI-powered contact centres are enhancing customer interaction efficiency across Asia and North America, supporting 110 million interactions annually.

Jodie Wallis, Global Chief Analytics Officer at Manulife, highlighted the transformative impact of AI, stating, “By equipping our teams with GenAI tools, we’re enabling them to work smarter, move faster, and make a bigger impact.” The company has already realised over S$600m in benefits in 2024 from its digital initiatives.

Manulife’s commitment to responsible AI is underscored by its adherence to ethical and sustainability standards, ensuring innovations align with these principles. The company’s AI strategy includes deploying over 35 GenAI use cases across Canada, the US, and Asia, with plans to expand to 70 more by the end of 2025.

As Manulife continues to embed AI across its operations, it aims to deepen customer relationships, improve adviser connections, and unlock new revenue streams, reinforcing its position as a leader in AI adoption within the financial services sector.
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