Analysts predict subscribers aren't likely to migrate from SingTel's mioTV to StarHub

Here is the reason why.

According to OCBC, the Ministry of Communications and Information (MCI) has rejected SingTel’s appeal against the Media Development Authority’s (MDA) directive to cross-carry Barclay’s Premier League (BPL) live matches for the 2013-2016 seasons. Recall that SingTel had negotiated for the BPL rights on a non-exclusive basis; but MDA deemed the conditions made it onerous for StarHub to negotiate for its own rights, thus triggeringthe Cross Carriage Measure.

As such, SingTelis required to make the necessary arrangements for the content to be carried on StarHub’s cable TV network. Understandably, StarHub has hailed the decision, calling it a “significant outcome”.

Here's more from OCBC:

Meanwhile, SingTel has just unveiled its pricing for BPL at S$59.90 (before GST) per month for new subscribers (both SingTel and StarHub) for its standalone, nine-channel package. mioTV does not have to cross carry channels included in its BPL Gold Packs which are currently being maintained at S$64.90 (includes BPL, sports, movies and family entertainment).

We also understand that existing mioTV subscribers are not affected and they will continue to pay S$34.90 (before GST) for the stand-alone package as well.

In light of the latest pricing announcement, we do not expect to see a significant migration of subscribers away from mioTV to StarHub’s cable TV platform, given that it will still be cheaper for existing subscribers to continue to watch BPL on the mioTV platform.

While many perceive StarHub’s platform as being more stable in its delivery, the price hurdle may prove to be quite a stumbling block; there may also be implementation issues still to be worked out.

And even if there are migrations, StarHub subscribers will be paying the fees directly to SingTel.

If you've been wondering whether SBR could work for your company — yes, probably.

A lot of the companies we partner with started as readers. They'd been following our coverage for a while, saw their own customers and competitors in it, and eventually asked the obvious question: could we do something with you? The answer is usually yes. The shape of it depends on what you're trying to do.

The options are broader than most people assume — thought leadership articles, sponsored content, industry summits across Southeast Asia, regional awards programmes, podcasts, and media placements in print and digital. Some partners use one channel; most use a mix. We figure out the right combination by starting with your brief, not with our rate card.

So if the question has been on your mind, here's the easy way to ask it.

We'll tell you honestly whether we can help, and how. It's a better use of everyone's time.

Book a meeting

| Or download the media kit (PDF)

240,000 senior readers quarterly in print Top 1,700 Singapore companies reached

7 markets across Southeast Asia