Simba's acquisition of M1 may drive down mobile plan prices, analysts say
Known for its affordable mobile plans with large data bundles, Simba is expected to push the local telco industry into a new phase of competition, especially as it leverages M1's nationwide infrastructure to strengthen its own network coverage.
On Monday (Aug 11), asset manager Keppel announced plans to sell M1 to Simba, with the transaction expected to be completed within months, pending approval from the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA).
"For retail customers, this acquisition is good news because Simba is known for its low-cost, high-data mobile offerings," said Ms Shirley Tee, deputy director for industry and innovation at Nanyang Polytechnic's School of Business Management.
"This will likely pressure other telcos to either lower their prices or improve their own service bundles to remain competitive."
She added that the new entity could introduce novel billing approaches such as usage-based pricing or AI-personalised plans.
Enterprise customers, such as large firms and organisations, may also benefit from more competitive pricing and attractive bundled offerings across mobile, broadband and information and communication technology (ICT) services, Ms Tee said.
Professor Lawrence Loh from the National University of Singapore Business School said the move signals growing consolidation in the telecoms sector.
'Disruptive pricing plans and agile asset-light strategies may be the way forward for market players to survive and thrive,' he said.
He noted the development mirrors global trends where legacy providers are challenged by digital-first entrants.
Tech industry observer Oo Gin Lee said bills may fall if Simba extends its 'no frills, cheap access services' to M1's customer base. A tiered system could also be introduced, offering premium services to legacy M1 customers while retaining Simba's low-cost model for existing users.
Still, Ms Tee cautioned that fewer players in the market could eventually reduce pricing diversity if not properly regulated.
BETTER CONNECTIVITY AND CAPACITY
The acquisition would allow Simba to tap M1's physical infrastructure – such as base stations and cell towers – to strengthen signal strength islandwide.
Founded in 1994, M1 has an advanced telecommunications network. Simba, the youngest of Singapore's four fully licensed mobile network operators, holds full 4G and 5G spectrum rights.
Prof Loh said the combined strengths of both entities would enhance customer offerings.
'M1 has the technology advantage with its advanced network while Simba has emerged as an innovative consumer service provider,' he said.
'The transfer will allow the M1 to scale in a focused way in the telecoms industry.'
Mr Oo added that while it is unclear if spectrum rights are part of the deal, Simba is likely to gain from M1's existing physical infrastructure, such as base stations and cell towers, to improve its signal strength.
DISRUPTING THE TELCO LANDSCAPE
The deal is the latest example of how Simba has been 'a disruptive force' since it entered the scene as Singapore's fourth telco, said Mr Oo.
'At that time, Simba's pending arrival already shook up the market as the incumbents Singtel, StarHub and M1 started working with MVNOs (mobile virtual network operators), like Circles.Life, to persuade IDA (Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore) that a fourth telco was not necessary for competition,' he said.
Upon its launch, Simba made waves with S$10 per month plans. Its acquisition of M1, one of the original 'big three' telcos, marks a full-circle moment, he said.
However, observers said the larger and more established telcos still have a role to play – provided they adapt to changing consumer expectations.
'Simba has a strong digital-first consumer model and creative marketing strategy, and may have captured the Singapore market share with their unique marketing and product offerings,' said Ms Tee.
'Established, legacy brands like M1 do still have a crucial role in today's telecoms landscape, but they must evolve.'
They can no longer rely solely on providing landline, cell phone and network capabilities, but must instead pivot and become 'comprehensive digital service providers' to remain relevant, she said.
To compete with the more nimble, digital-native brands, the older brands must also invest heavily to accelerate 5G and digital infrastructure, enhance their cybersecurity and AI capabilities, and significantly improve service quality, added Ms Tee.
Prof Loh said M1's brand may eventually be integrated under Simba's umbrella. 'Staying cool and chic will be the key determinant of a brand's success in the telecoms industry,' he said.
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