Blind boxes: adorable, collectible… and unexpectedly addictive. What began as a niche hobby for toy enthusiasts has exploded into a mainstream phenomenon, popping up in stores, fast food chains, and online platforms.

But this popularity comes with a downside. Concerns over compulsive spending have prompted Singapore to consider regulations aimed at curbing the gambling-like risks of blind boxes.

If rules are introduced, can strategies like ‘demarketing’ actually help curb addiction? And is it even possible to make a product designed to be irresistible truly safe without killing its appeal?

On The Big Story, Debbie Yong speaks with Dr. Nurhafihz Noor, Senior Lecturer in Business (Marketing) at James Cook University Singapore, to find out more.

Blind boxes: adorable, collectible&hellip; and unexpectedly addictive. What began as a niche hobby for toy enthusiasts has exploded into a mainstream phenomenon, popping up in stores, fast food chains, and online platforms.
But this popularity comes with a downside. Concerns over compulsive spending have prompted Singapore to consider regulations aimed at curbing the gambling-like risks of blind boxes. If rules are introduced, can strategies like &lsquo;demarketing&rsquo; actually help curb addiction? And is it even possible to make a product designed to be irresistible truly safe without killing its appeal?
On The Big Story, Debbie Yong speaks with Dr. Nurhafihz Noor, Senior Lecturer in Business (Marketing) at James Cook University Singapore, to find out more.

Your evening guide to the day's most important topics — navigate the key events in politics, business, markets, wealth management, and top investment opportunities. Keeps you informed and ahead of the curve, daily.

Money Matters is your guide to navigating the day's most important topics, from politics and current affairs to wealth management and trending issues. Every evening, the team delivers insightful discussions on business news, market movements, and the latest in alternative assets. Whether navigating the political landscape, understanding the economy, or uncovering emerging investment opportunities, Money Matters keeps you informed and ahead of the curve. Tune in daily to Hongbin Jeong and Chua Tian Tian from 4 pm to 7 pm on MONEY FM 89.3.

Money Matters is your guide to navigating the day's most important topics, from politics and current affairs to wealth management and trending issues. Every evening, the team delivers insightful discussions on business news, market movements, and the latest in alternative assets. Whether navigating the political landscape, understanding the economy, or uncovering emerging investment opportunities, Money Matters keeps you informed and ahead of the curve. Tune in daily to Hongbin Jeong and Chua Tian Tian from 4 pm to 7 pm on MONEY FM 89.3.