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The Star
2 hours ago
- Business
- The Star
Can Singapore maintain its ‘exclusive' concerts going forward?
IN the snaking lines for Lady Gaga merchandise at the Singapore Sports Hub's foyer in May, one could hear a smattering of Tagalog and Vietnamese, Thai and Hindi, and mainland Chinese Mandarin among the chatter. It was a smorgasbord sampling of fans from Asia and beyond, who had descended on Singapore for Lady Gaga's only shows in the region. As with Taylor Swift's runaway success of sold-out shows in March 2024, the Republic had once again managed to work out such a deal – making sure that Lady Gaga performed only there. Besides the economic boost, this strategy of securing international superstars for Singapore-exclusive shows could fuel the country's aspirations of being a global entertainment epicentre – and is one that should be pursued for as long as possible. Swift set a high bar, With six shows that sold over 300,000 tickets, Swift's concerts – combined with British band Coldplay's six shows in January 2024 – injected up to S$450mil (RM1.5bil) into the Singapore economy, bringing in high international visitor arrivals, hotel occupancy rates and tourism revenue, according to private-sector estimates. Economists estimated that Gaga's concerts have generated as much as S$150mil in tourism receipts but it appeared that tickets took longer to sell. The rise in business during the week of the Gaga shows was far less pronounced than when Coldplay and Swift were in town in 2024. While Gaga also has a smaller and niched following, 2025 has also been a slow year for business due to the shaky global economy. Still, paradoxically, tourism experts say the climate of global economic uncertainty could encourage spending on such one-off events. Associate Professor Kuan-Huei Lee, director of programmes, business, communication and design at the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT), said: 'During periods of crisis and economic uncertainty, individuals may increase their spending on emotional or aspirational goods and experiences that they perceive as 'once-in-a-lifetime' events, such as a Lady Gaga concert.' Can the formula be repeated? Lady Gaga's recent run of shows marks the second time in two years that a major international act has chosen Singapore as its only regional stop. However, pulling off such 'once-in-a-lifetime' events on a regular basis could be a challenge. Not only is it contingent on mega artistes' touring schedules and attracting them to Singapore, but other countries in the region could also emulate the Republic's strategy. But observers agree that Singapore is well placed to keep the momentum going. Several key factors make it a preferred choice in the region, noted tourism expert Benjamin Cassim, senior lecturer at the School of Business at Temasek Polytechnic. These include the availability of hospitality and tourism infrastructure for travelling artistes, their teams and visitors attending the concerts, as well as venues with a proven track record that are equipped to deliver in terms of size and technical support. Accessibility is another element, including the ease of getting to Singapore, and travelling within it safely, with an efficient public transport system that is close to venues. Cassim noted that the Republic has already established itself as a premier entertainment and sports events destination, not just within the Asia-Pacific region, but also globally. 'A major catalyst for this transformation is probably the Formula One Singapore Grand Prix event that Singapore started hosting in 2008,' he said. The F1 Singapore GP's consistently stacked and high-quality off-track entertainment line-ups – with concerts by A-listers, built around the marquee race event – have been a template that has since been imitated by other F1 races around the world. 'The more concert and entertainment events Singapore hosts, the more experience the relevant stakeholders get at honing their craft,' said Cassim. 'This increases our levels of expertise to successfully deliver top-notch events.' For concert promoters as well, Singapore is a reliable choice, though it is the most expensive in the region. It costs about 25% to 30% more to stage a concert here, compared with other places in the region such as Seoul, Bangkok and Jakarta, noted Zaran Vachha, co-founder of independent touring company Collective Minds. 'Bringing someone like Lady Gaga here costs millions of dollars, and at that level, they don't want things to go wrong,' he said. 'And in the region, despite it being the most expensive, Singapore is the least risky place to do that – in terms of everything from securing venues, licensing, approvals and visas (for artistes and crew), to (ensuring) ticket demand. 'It's a safety net for both promoters and artistes.' Securing the next big fish While Singapore has a first-mover advantage in this space, and the ability to make it happen again, it should pursue this 'Singapore-exclusive' strategy for as long as it can before others catch up. 'Replicating Singapore's advantages as a tourist destination is challenging,' said SIT's Prof Lee, noting that organising such events involves well-oiled coordination between the public and private sectors – the government, venue operators, lodging and logistics. She added: 'As neighbouring countries continue to lag behind in competing with Singapore, it is crucial for Singapore to secure exclusive agreements. 'These should align with fan travel patterns, capitalise on logistical strengths, integrate additional activities for tourists to enjoy outside the concert, and closely observe emerging competitors in the region to adapt and adjust.' In 2024, Singapore hit a record S$29.8bil in tourism receipts, driven largely by visitors from markets such as China, Indonesia and Australia, said the Singapore Tourism Board (STB). Between January and September 2024, tourism receipts showed that spending grew across all categories, led by the sightseeing, entertainment and gaming category, which increased by 25 % to S$4.6bil. STB's outlook for 2025 is even more bullish, with expectations of receiving 17 million to 18.5 million international visitors, bringing in S$29bil to S$30.5bil in tourism receipts, surpassing 2024's numbers. After 2024's sold-out shows by Taylor Swift and 2025's run of shows by Lady Gaga, perhaps Singapore should angle for its next big fish in 2026. With such marquee concert events in the year attracting top tourism eyeballs and dollars, and with Singapore shifting priorities to quality tourism instead of quantity in terms of visitor numbers, the Republic must strike while the iron is hot – and continue on its rodeo run to lasso the highest stratosphere of superstars in the world. There is a very limited list of such stars, and one Beyonce Knowles-Carter – currently on her reportedly 94% sold-out run of Cowboy Carter shows around the US and Europe for 2025 – happens to be on it. — The Straits Times/ANN
Economic Times
5 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Economic Times
Travis Kelce reacts after Jelly Roll calls Taylor Swift the GOAT: ‘My dawg is the realest!'
Getty Images Travis Kelce reacted on social media after Jelly Roll called his girlfriend, Taylor Swift, the "GOAT" on The Pat McAfee Show on July 17. (File Image) NFL star Travis Kelce shared a rare public reaction on social media after rapper and singer Jelly Roll gave a glowing shoutout to his girlfriend, Taylor Swift. During his appearance on The Pat McAfee Show on ESPN on July 17, Jelly Roll was naming his favorite artists including Morgan Wallen and Post Malone, when he enthusiastically called Swift the 'GOAT' (Greatest of All Time).'I'll fistfight anybody who says otherwise,' he joked, before adding, 'Travis, don't even worry, I got this one.' Also Read: Who is Charli XCX's husband George Daniel? Inside their romance, his role in The 1975, and net worthThe clip quickly gained traction online, and Kelce responded in the comments of McAfee's Instagram post, writing, 'my dawg is the realest!!' with laughing and high-five emojis. It was one of Kelce's rare public comments about Swift, sending fans into a frenzy and adding to the buzz around the couple's ongoing relationship. Kelce and Swift, who began dating in 2023, have regularly made headlines for their supportive public appearances. From Taylor attending Kelce's home games with the Kansas City Chiefs to Travis joining her on the Eras Tour, the couple has shared many moments both on and off the stage. They were also spotted at events like the US Open and Kelce's training camp, often seen with fellow NFL players Patrick Mahomes and his wife, Swift's Eras Tour ending in December 2024 and Kelce's NFL season concluding in February 2025, the couple has been making the most of their downtime. A source told People earlier this year that they've been traveling together and spending quality time with friends.'They are very much in sync,' the source said. 'They value the same things and are enjoying this special time out of the spotlight.' While the couple tends to keep their relationship mostly private, Kelce's reaction to Jelly Roll's praise offered a glimpse into his continued admiration for Swift's music and legacy. Fans appreciated the sweet gesture, with thousands liking his comment within hours.
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Travis Kelce reacts after Jelly Roll calls Taylor Swift the GOAT: ‘My dawg is the realest!'
NFL star Travis Kelce shared a rare public reaction on social media after rapper and singer Jelly Roll gave a glowing shoutout to his girlfriend, Taylor Swift . During his appearance on The Pat McAfee Show on ESPN on July 17, Jelly Roll was naming his favorite artists including Morgan Wallen and Post Malone, when he enthusiastically called Swift the 'GOAT' (Greatest of All Time). 'I'll fistfight anybody who says otherwise,' he joked, before adding, 'Travis, don't even worry, I got this one.' Explore courses from Top Institutes in Select a Course Category Data Analytics Degree Data Science Artificial Intelligence Healthcare Data Science Others healthcare others Digital Marketing Project Management MCA Design Thinking CXO Cybersecurity Management PGDM Finance MBA Public Policy Leadership Product Management Technology Operations Management Skills you'll gain: Data Analysis & Visualization Predictive Analytics & Machine Learning Business Intelligence & Data-Driven Decision Making Analytics Strategy & Implementation Duration: 12 Weeks Indian School of Business Applied Business Analytics Starts on Jun 13, 2024 Get Details Also Read: Who is Charli XCX's husband George Daniel? Inside their romance, his role in The 1975, and net worth by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like DMD Diamond launched an open Beta [Join Now] DMD Diamond Learn More The clip quickly gained traction online, and Kelce responded in the comments of McAfee's Instagram post, writing, 'my dawg is the realest!!' with laughing and high-five emojis. Live Events It was one of Kelce's rare public comments about Swift, sending fans into a frenzy and adding to the buzz around the couple's ongoing relationship. Kelce and Swift, who began dating in 2023, have regularly made headlines for their supportive public appearances. From Taylor attending Kelce's home games with the Kansas City Chiefs to Travis joining her on the Eras Tour , the couple has shared many moments both on and off the stage. They were also spotted at events like the US Open and Kelce's training camp, often seen with fellow NFL players Patrick Mahomes and his wife, Brittany. With Swift's Eras Tour ending in December 2024 and Kelce's NFL season concluding in February 2025, the couple has been making the most of their downtime. A source told People earlier this year that they've been traveling together and spending quality time with friends. 'They are very much in sync,' the source said. 'They value the same things and are enjoying this special time out of the spotlight.' While the couple tends to keep their relationship mostly private, Kelce's reaction to Jelly Roll's praise offered a glimpse into his continued admiration for Swift's music and legacy. Fans appreciated the sweet gesture, with thousands liking his comment within hours.
Elle
9 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Elle
Travis Kelce Posted a Rare Reply to a Taylor Swift Comment That Went Viral
THE RUNDOWN On Thursday, Travis Kelce posted a rare reply to an online comment about his girlfriend, Taylor Swift. The NFL star was apparently watching musical artist Jelly Roll on ESPN's The Pat McAfee Show, where the singer was shouting out his own favorite artists. He suggested Morgan Wallen and Post Malone, before thinking of Swift. But then he couldn't stop gushing. 'She's the GOAT!' Jelly Roll insisted. 'I will fistfight anybody who says otherwise. Travis, don't even worry I got this one. You know what I mean? She's the GOAT.' Kelce commented on McAfee's Instagram post of the moment, writing, 'my dawg is the realest!!' adding some laughing and high-five emojis for emphasis. The comment has already garnered over 3,000 likes as fans seem to agree. Swift and Kelce have been enjoying some downtime together ahead of training camp for his team, the Kansas City Chiefs. The football player had a spring and summer break following the team's loss at the Super Bowl in February. Swift wrapped up her Eras Tour in December. The couple has been spotted in New York City, Florida, and Tennessee during the last few months. A source told People in April, 'They have been traveling nonstop and very much enjoy it. They are making the most of their time off together. They are hanging out with friends, too. It's a special time for them.' The source added that the couple is 'very serious and in sync.' 'They value the same things,' the source said. 'Right now, the focus is very much on private time out of the spotlight.'
Mint
a day ago
- Business
- Mint
Europe gets tougher on Putin
European leaders on Friday at long last cranked up sanctions on Russia, sending Vladimir Putin a message that there will be more economic costs if he continues his drone and missile barrages on Ukraine. Now it's Washington's turn. Brussels' latest sanctions package ratchets up economic pressure on Moscow by closing loopholes and punishing foreign companies that circumvent them. Europe has already ended most of its Russian natural gas imports by pipeline. Oil tankers that are insured by European companies are also prohibited from transporting Russian crude sold at more than $60 a barrel. The goal has been to weaken Russia's war machine by reducing its oil and gas revenue while minimizing the pain for Europe. But Russian oil and gas have continued to flow to global markets by other channels. Russia has deployed uninsured shadow fleets to sell crude to refineries in India and Turkey, which export fuel back to Europe. The price cap also has less effect now, when crude is trading around $65 a barrel, than when it took effect in December 2022 and crude fetched $80 a barrel. Friday's package will lower the price cap to $47.60 a barrel, which will be revised every three months, and restrict imports of refined fuel that is produced from Russian crude. Europe will further isolate Russia from the global financial system by kicking 22 Russian banks out of the Swift financial-transfer network. It will sanction two Chinese banks that have helped Russia circumvent sanctions and a large oil refinery in India that is partially owned by Russia's state-run oil company Rosneft. Europe is also telling Mr. Putin not to count on reviving the Nord Stream gas pipelines between Russia and Germany. The pipelines were damaged in an underwater explosion in 2022, but some U.S. and European investors are eager to repair and restart them once the war in Ukraine ends. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz isn't so keen. The new sanctions will bar transactions that could revive or repair the pipelines. Mr. Merz and other European leaders deserve credit for their resolve, though lower oil and gas prices helped by increased U.S. production have made this easier. Venture Global signed a 20-year contract on Wednesday to supply LNG to Italy's Eni from its new Louisiana CP2 export facility. Sanctions are no substitute for the weapons Ukraine desperately needs. But Russia's economy is showing signs of trouble with interest rates near 20% to contain inflation. Bloomberg News this week reported that executives at some of Russia's biggest banks have discussed the possibility of seeking state bailouts if more loans on their books default. All of this suggests the West's economic leverage over Moscow is growing if countries unite to use it. President Trump could join this effort by backing a bipartisan Senate bill that would empower him to impose 500% tariffs on countries that purchase Russian oil and gas products. He could also work with Europe to confiscate some $300 billion in Russia assets frozen in the West to buy weapons for Ukraine. There's no good excuse for Mr. Trump not to follow Europe's lead now and put more pressure on Russia to negotiate a cease-fire.
