StarHub to buy MyRepublic mobile unit in Singapore

StarHub will acquire MyRepublic's mobile business in Singapore, extending its mobile brand portfolio in its home market.

The transaction will give StarHub full ownership of MyRepublic's consumer operations in Singapore across broadband and mobile, following its earlier investment in MyRepublic Broadband. Completion remains subject to conditions precedent being met by both parties.

MyRepublic Mobile customers will remain on their current plans and services, and service continuity is expected during the ownership change. Those customers have already been progressively migrated to StarHub's network under an existing relationship between the two groups.

The acquisition will keep the MyRepublic Mobile brand in place while bringing the business under StarHub's control. The purchase aligns with StarHub's multi-brand strategy of targeting different customer segments with separate offers.

Singapore's telecoms market has become more competitive in recent years as operators seek growth through broader service bundles and network investment. Against that backdrop, consolidation has emerged as one way to add scale in a mature market.

Nikhil Eapen, Chief Executive Officer, StarHub, linked the purchase to the company's longer investment in MyRepublic.

"Our acquisition of MyRepublic Mobile completes a multi-year journey that began with our investment in MyRepublic Broadband in 2021, culminating in full ownership of MyRepublic across both broadband and mobile. With ongoing consolidation, we are bringing greater scale to invest more effectively in the networks, resilience and innovation that Singapore will increasingly depend on. This transaction strengthens those foundations while continuing to give consumers meaningful choice in how they connect," said Eapen.

StarHub said the deal would support continued investment in connectivity infrastructure as demand for digital services rises. The larger combined base would also provide more scale for network investment, service development and customer service.

Multi-brand strategy

Matt Williams, Chief Executive Officer-designate, StarHub, said the company sees scope to run multiple brands for different customer groups rather than folding them into a single proposition.

"MyRepublic Mobile is a strong fit with our multi-brand, multi-segment strategy. Different customers want different things from their mobile experience, and our approach allows us to offer distinct brands and propositions while giving more customers access to the strength of StarHub's network. With our 5G+ network, we are continuing to invest in faster speeds, stronger indoor coverage and a better overall mobile experience, while building the scale needed to serve customers more effectively," said Williams.

The companies did not disclose financial terms or provide a timetable for completion beyond saying the transaction depends on standard closing conditions.

For MyRepublic, the sale separates its Singapore mobile unit from the wider group while transferring its subscriber base to a larger domestic operator. Management sought to reassure users that there would be no immediate changes to their plans or services.

"For MyRepublic Mobile customers, we deeply appreciate your support and loyalty over the years and nothing changes for you, continuity and quality of service remain our main priority. Customers will remain on the same plans and services they have today, without disruption, while continuing to benefit from StarHub's safe, reliable and extensive network," said Baker.