Media OutReach
Rising Costs and Coverage Gaps: The Diverging Medical Insurance Landscapes in Hong Kong and Singapore
As Hong Kong witnesses a burgeoning interest in health insurance, Singapore grapples with the challenges of rising medical costs and financial risk management.
- Budget Priorities: Respondents in both regions allocate significant portions of their budgets to Family, Finance, and Health. Notably, there is a strong intent to increase health budgets in 2025, particularly among the middle-income segment, with 31% in Singapore and 26% in Hong Kong planning for such increases.
- Insurance Coverage Gaps: While a majority of respondents in both markets benefit from medical insurance, Singaporeans exhibit higher levels of protection, with 49% having personal plans and only 10% uninsured, compared to 19% uninsured in Hong Kong.
- HNWIs Driving Demand: A substantial percentage of HNWIs in Hong Kong plan to purchase new medical insurance in 2025 (48%), contrasting with a smaller proportion in Singapore due to existing extensive coverage (30%).
- Motivations and Barriers: Hong Kong respondents are driven to purchase insurance to address coverage gaps (44%) and rising medical expenses (36%), while Singaporeans focus on mitigating financial risks (43%). High costs remain the top deterrent in both markets, affecting 62% in Hong Kong and 52% in Singapore.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 February 2025 – A recent survey by MDRi, which engaged 1,000 respondents across Hong Kong and Singapore, has unveiled a diverse array of health and medical insurance needs as the Year of the Snake approaches. The findings highlight the contrasting priorities of individuals in these two markets, revealing distinct trends in their insurance requirements.
Health has emerged as the paramount life priority for residents of both Hong Kong and Singapore. With a growing aging population in both markets, this shared emphasis on health underscores significant growth opportunities within the healthcare industry.
Middle-Income Segment Intends to Increase Health Budgets in 2025
In examining budget allocations for 2024, respondents from Hong Kong prioritized Family (23%), Finance (22%), and Health (15%). Singaporeans similarly allocated their budgets, with Family (22%), Finance (20%), and Health (16%) as top priorities.
Notably, 21% of Hong Kong respondents plan to increase their health budgets in 2025, particularly among the middle-income segment, where 26% intend to allocate more. In Singapore, 23% of respondents plan to boost their health budgets, with a striking 31% among the middle-income group.
Significant Differences in Medical Insurance Coverage
While the majority of individuals in both Hong Kong (81%) and Singapore (90%) have medical insurance coverage, notable differences arise in personal coverage. In Singapore, approximately 49% possess personal medical insurance, with 36% opting for additional coverage beyond company plans. In contrast, only 15% of Hong Kong respondents rely solely on company medical insurance without personal coverage, and about 19% of individuals in Hong Kong lack any medical insurance, compared to just 10% in Singapore. This disparity highlights Singapore’s population having better protection levels in terms of medical insurance relative to Hong Kong.
HNWIs and Future Insurance Plans
Looking ahead to 2025, 30% of individuals in Hong Kong are projected to acquire new medical insurance, with a significant 48% of HNWIs planning to purchase new policies. Conversely, only 24% of Singaporeans intend to secure additional coverage, reflecting their already extensive insurance ownership.
Motivations and Deterrents in Medical Insurance Decision-Making
In Hong Kong, motivations for purchasing new medical insurance are driven by the need to address coverage inadequacies (44%), rising medical expenses (36%), and reducing future financial risks (36%). In Singapore, the focus shifts toward mitigating financial risks (43%), exploring diverse coverage options (39%), and managing escalating medical costs (37%).
For those without insurance, high costs remain the primary deterrent, with 62% in Hong Kong and 52% in Singapore citing expense as a key barrier.
Growth Opportunities in Medical Insurance
Hong Kong presents substantial growth opportunities for insurance companies, particularly as many individuals remain uninsured. By positioning medical insurance as an affordable solution against rising medical costs, insurers can tap into this potential. Surprisingly, despite lower coverage rates, HNWIs in Hong Kong are actively considering new insurance purchases in 2025. In contrast, while the Singaporean market shows lower demand due to widespread coverage, there remains an opportunity to attract individuals by emphasizing the reduction of future financial risks and exploring low-cost solutions for those without medical insurance.
Simon Tye, CEO of MDRi, emphasizes the importance of these trends: “Insurance firms must recognize the distinct landscapes of Hong Kong and Singapore. In Hong Kong, the opportunity lies in catering to an eager market looking for new insurance options. Meanwhile, Singapore’s focus should be on providing diverse coverage solutions that effectively mitigate financial risks and address the concerns of rising medical expenses.”
Notes to editors:
- The press release result is based on a survey conducted by MDRi during 31st December 2024 – 6th January 2025, measuring the sentiment and happiness level of both markets of Hong Kong and Singapore towards the year 2025, including ownership of medical insurance.
- The survey engaged a total of 1,000 participants, with an equal sample size of 500 individuals from each market, to ensure a balanced representation of the demographic distribution within the respective territories.
For further information, interviews, or comments, please contact [email protected].
Hashtag: #MDRi
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About The Mishcon de Reya Group
The Mishcon de Reya Group is an independent, international professional services business with law at its heart, employing over 1450 people with over 650 lawyers. It includes the law firm Mishcon de Reya LLP and a collection of leading consultancy businesses that complement the firm’s legal services.
Mishcon de Reya LLP is based in London, Oxford, Cambridge, Singapore and Hong Kong (through its association with Karas So LLP). The firm services an international community of clients and provides advice in situations where the constraints of geography often do not apply. Its work is cross-border, multi-jurisdictional and complex, spanning seven core practice areas: Corporate; Dispute Resolution; Employment; Impact; Innovation; Private; and Real Estate.
The Mishcon de Reya Group includes consultancy businesses MDR Discover, MDR Mayfair (in London, Singapore and Dubai), MDR ONE, MDRi (in Hong Kong) and MDRx. The Group also includes MDR Lab, which invests in the most promising early stage legaltech companies as well as the Mishcon Academy, its in-house place of learning and platform for thought leadership.
Earlier this year, the Group announced its first strategic acquisition in the alternative legal services market, flexible legal resourcing business Flex Legal. It also acquired a majority stake in Somos, a global group actions management business.
About MDRi
Based in Hong Kong and with operations in London and Singapore, MDRi is a leading provider of business insights, empowering organizations with data-driven advice to make informed decisions and drive growth.
Through advanced analytics, industry expertise, and innovative methodologies, MDRi uncovers strategic opportunities, mitigates risks, and helps businesses stay ahead in a rapidly evolving marketplace. With a commitment to excellence and client-centricity, MDRi is revolutionizing the way organizations harness insights for success.
Media OutReach
Natural Diamonds Take Center Stage on the Red Carpet at the Grammy Awards
Today’s biggest stars express individuality and confidence with natural diamonds
LOS ANGELES, US – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 February 2026 – At this year’s GRAMMY Awards, the Red Carpet sparkled with natural diamonds punctuating the looks of today’s most celebrated music artists.
Leading artists, performers and presenters showed up for music’s biggest night in diamond jewelry looks that spoke to creativity, individuality, glamour and power. From nominees Olivia Dean and Sabrina Carpenter to presenter Keltie Knight’s choices, natural diamonds expressed not only the timeless glamour and brilliance they’re known for, but their ability to amplify personal style. Natural diamonds were spotted in a range of tones from icy whites to deep whiskeys, and in settings from platinum to rose gold. Just as Hollywood stars are hitting the Red Carpet this year in Desert diamonds, the biggest new trend in natural diamonds, musical artists are experimenting with a bolder diamond palette, creating a more personality-driven red carpet.
Desert diamonds
Desert diamonds, ranging from warm whites to deep whiskeys, were spotted everywhere, including on presenter Keltie Knight, who opted for unique diamond and yellow gold hoops by RENNA, as well as a smattering of yellow gold, fancy-shaped diamond solitaire rings from the brand. Highlights also included power player J Balvin who chose a clean and classic tuxedo paired with a large cushion cut yellow diamond ring that added a nice balance to the traditionally masculine look.
Simple Drops
Simple drop earrings emerged as a quiet standout at the GRAMMYs, proving that restraint can be just as impactful as large statement pieces. Addison Rae and Madison Beer leaned into effortless glamour, choosing sleek diamond drops that framed the face with subtle movement and modern elegance. Billie Eilish brought her signature edge, using pared-back diamond drops to balance her bold black and white suiting. Kelsea Ballerini elevated the look in Sabyasachi, where refined diamond drops added softness and romance, while Reba McEntire turned to Martin Katz for timeless brilliance, opting for classic diamond drops that were sure to catch the eye.
Diamond Hoops for Men
Men are increasingly embracing minimalist yet impactful diamond hoop earrings as a refined accessory choice. Bad Bunny paired his sharp Schiaparelli tuxedo with a single diamond hoop earring, bringing a subtle but polished sparkle to his look that perfectly balanced his experimental sartorial vibe. Kaytranada’s red carpet presence and inclination for understated yet stylish accessories suggest that simple diamond hoops align naturally with his fashion-forward aesthetic. This trend points to a broader moment in men’s red carpet jewelry: pared-back diamond hoops that provide polished shine without overpowering the rest of the ensemble, signaling a move toward jewelry that feels personal, versatile, and modern.
Rings
Rings at the GRAMMYs reflected a dual trend of bold expression and refined delicacy, underscoring natural diamonds’ versatility. Sabrina Carpenter complimented her look in Chopard, opting for diamond rings that delivered impact without overpowering her look, while Sombr also made a striking impression with a diamond ring that was perfect high-jewelry shine to go with his existing sequined ensemble. In contrast, Olivia Dean showcased a more delicate approach in Cartier High Jewelry, layering elegant diamond rings that emphasized timeless sophistication perfectly echoing her Chanel gown. Miley Cyrus made perhaps the boldest ring statement of the night with several diamond rings stacked and worn over leather gloves.
Necklaces
Necklaces at the GRAMMYs showcased how natural diamonds can define both quiet refinement and bold presence on the red carpet. On the delicate end of the spectrum, Charlotte Lawrence in Messika exemplified understated luxury with a finely crafted diamond necklace that traced the neckline proving that less is more. In contrast, Hailey and Justin Bieber turned heads with matching Lorraine Schwartz statement diamond neck pieces that anchored their looks. Tate McRae also grabbed attention with a 50 carat Lorraine Schwartz necklace, while Pharrell Williams elevated his ensemble with a striking diamond necklace that blended artistry and scale. Together, these moments underscored a versatile necklace trend: from minimalist diamonds that whispered elegance to oversized, expressive pieces that commanded attention. Natural diamonds continue to serve as dynamic anchors in personal style storytelling.
Hashtag: #ADiamondisForever #NaturalDiamonds #diamonds #GRAMMYS
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The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About De Beers Group
Established in 1888, De Beers Group is the world’s leading diamond company with expertise in the exploration, mining, marketing and retailing of diamonds. Together with its joint venture partners, De Beers Group employs more than 20,000 people across the diamond pipeline and is the world’s largest diamond producer by value, with diamond mining operations in Botswana, Canada, Namibia and South Africa. Innovation sits at the heart of De Beers Group’s strategy as it develops a portfolio of offers that span the diamond value chain, including its jewellery houses, De Beers London and Forevermark, and other pioneering solutions such as diamond sourcing and traceability initiatives Tracr and GemFair. De Beers Group also provides leading services and technology to the diamond industry in the form of education and laboratory services and a wide range of diamond sorting, detection and classification technology services.
De Beers Group is committed to ‘
Building Forever,’ a holistic and integrated approach to sustainability that underpins our efforts to create meaningful impact for the people and places where our diamonds are
discovered. Building Forever focuses on three key areas where, through collaborations and partnerships around the globe, we have an enhanced ability to drive positive impact; Livelihoods, Climate and Nature. De Beers Group is a member of the Anglo American plc group. For further information, visit
www.debeersgroup.com.
Media OutReach
ICONSIAM Drives Its Destination Marketing Strategy to Elevate Bangkok as a Global Chinese New Year Destination
Featuring Renowned Actor Wang Zhuo Cheng and T-Pop Sensation BUS to Boost Thai–Chinese Tourism Economy
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 February 2026 – ICONSIAM, the global landmark on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, announces a major collaboration with leading public and private partners—including the Ministry of Culture (Thailand), the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), KASIKORNBANK, CP AXTRA “Makro – Lotus”, Alipay +, and Tiger Balm—to host a world-class Chinese New Year celebration. Reinforcing its Destination Marketing strategy, ICONSIAM aims to position itself as one of the world’s premier Chinese New Year destinations through festivities that blend Thailand’s cultural heritage with revered Chinese traditions. A key highlight is ICONSIAM’s spiritually significant location, known as the “Dragon’s Belly,” a powerful symbol of prosperity along the most beautiful curve of the Chao Phraya River. To honor the Year of the Horse, a sacred statue of Guan Yu—the deity of honesty, loyalty, and righteousness, will be enshrined. The celebration will feature world-class entertainment led by renowned Chinese actor Wang Zhuo Cheng and T-Pop Sensation BUS, alongside dragon and lion dances, festive street food, shopping, and cultural experiences. ICONSIAM is confident that foot traffic and spending within the destination will grow by more than 10%, helping to stimulate overall economic activity and tourism in the first quarter. The event will take place from 12–17 February 2026 at River Park, ICONSIAM.
Mrs. Suma Wongphan, Executive Vice President of ICONSIAM Co., Ltd. said “This event reaffirms ICONSIAM’s role as a Global Experiential Destination that captivates visitors worldwide. Our ambition is not only to elevate Thailand’s tourism experience, but also to celebrate the deep-rooted ties between Thailand and China. We have curated a landmark festival that seamlessly blends traditional beliefs with contemporary artistry, creating a special experience to attract global audiences to witness the most magnificent Chinese New Year celebration along the Chao Phraya River. Alongside the cultural aspects, ICONSIAM enhances the festive experience through its ‘Lucky Angpao Mega Campaign’, offering over 8,300 prizes, with expectations of driving more than 10% growth in visitor traffic and 10% increase in consumer spending during the campaign period.”
The 2026 Chinese New Year season is expected to generate significant economic impact across Thailand’s tourism sector, aligning closely with the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s strategy in setting the target of attracting 6.7 million Chinese visitors under ongoing visa-free measures. ICONSIAM is confident that the scale and creativity of this celebration will serve as a powerful catalyst in advancing Thailand’s tourism and retail sectors to global prominence.
The ICONSIAM A Prosperous Chinese New Year 2026 key highlights include:
- Landmark of Blessing: Visitors are invited to experience profound spiritual power at The Auspicious Guan Yu Shrine, featuring the enshrinement of five sacred manifestations of Guan Yu, brought directly from the People’s Republic of China for the first time in Thailand. Enhancing the experience is the Interactive Blessing Pavilion, showcasing the “Eight Auspicious Horses” through cutting-edge interactive technology that breathes new life into ancient mythology.
- Prosperous Celebration: The riverside comes alive with a world-class cultural spectacle led by the appearance of globally renowned Chinese actor Wang Zhuo Cheng, who joins the grand procession of the legendary ‘Long Ma’ (Dragon Horse), a mythical creature stretching over 32 metres in length, symbolising success and progress. The celebration is further energised by a breathtaking performance of the dragon-horse dance by Thailand’s leading T-POP sensation BUS (Because of You I Shine), creating a powerful fusion of tradition and contemporary pop culture.
- The Miracle of Fountain: At ICONSIAM’s iconic river curve — regarded as the most beautiful bend of the Chao Phraya, visitors will witness the mesmerising “Chao Phraya River Dragon Multimedia Water Feature,” the longest of its kind in Southeast Asia, featuring a choreographed spectacle of dancing fountains, light, and sound.
More than a celebration, ICONSIAM A PROSPEROUS CHINESE NEW YEAR 2026 is a cultural phenomenon that positions Bangkok as one of the world’s most compelling festive destinations. Be part of this extraordinary celebration from February 12–17, 2026, at River Park, ICONSIAM. Discover upcoming events and the latest updates via ICONSIAM’s Facebook at www.facebook.com/ICONSIAM or call 1338 for more information.
Hashtag: #ICONSIAMCNY2026 #ICONSIAMaProsperousChineseNewYear2026 #ICONSIAM
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Media OutReach
DFI Retail Group to Announce 2025 Full Year Financial Results and Host Analyst Presentation Live Webcast
Time: 09:30-10:30 am (Hong Kong Time)
Hashtag: #DFIRetailGroup #Mannings #Guardian #7-Eleven #Wellcome #MarketPlace #IKEA #yuu
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About DFI Retail Group
DFI Retail Group (the ‘Group’) is a leading Asian retailer, driven by its purpose to “Sustainably Serve Asia for Generations with Everyday Moments”.
At 1 December 2025, the Group and its associates operated over 7,400 outlets, and employed over 81,000 people across 12 markets.
The Group is dedicated to delivering quality, value and service to Asian consumers through a compelling retail experience, supported by an extensive store network and highly efficient supply chains.
The Group and its associates, operates a portfolio of well-known brands across five key divisions: health and beauty, convenience, food, home furnishings and restaurants.
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