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.

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