Lazada 7.7 vs Shopee 7.7: Which Sale Is Really Worth Your Click?

Singapore’s mid-year shopping showdown is here again, and it is game on between Lazada and Shopee. With both platforms promising jaw-dropping prices, lightning-fast delivery, and massive vouchers, the real question is: where should you spend your money?

We took a deep dive into both Lazada’s 7.7 Big Summer Sale and Shopee’s ongoing 6.6 to 7.7 Great Shopee Sale to help you figure out where the real savings are hiding this season. The discounts may be loud, but we’re cutting through the noise to find the true value.

THE SALE TIMELINE

Shopee launched its Great Shopee Sale, stretching the campaign from June 6 all the way to July 7. It is a full month of timed flash sales, daily dining deals, and exciting voucher drops. The main event will happen on July 7. The campaign keeps shoppers coming back with fresh offers almost every other week.

In contrast, Lazada keeps things concise. Its Big Summer Sale begins on July 6 and ends on July 10. The deals are tightly packed, and users can consult LazCalendar to track the daily highlights and prepare in advance.

Verdict: Shopee dominates in duration and frequency. 

FOOD & LIFESTYLE DEALS

Shopee’s 50% off daily dining deals are a clear win for budget-savvy foodies. From Popeyes and KFC to Mr Bean, the discounts cover everyday cravings and quick comfort meals. Combine that with Shopee Live cashback, time-limited vouchers, and major markdowns on fashion and beauty, and you get a fantastic online GSS experience.

Lazada offers lifestyle deals as part of wider store promotions, but it is not as aggressive in food discounts. Their focus leans more toward value-for-money bundles across electronics, home, and essentials.

Verdict: Shopee steals the spotlight for lifestyle and food offers.

DELIVERY, RETURNS, & USER PERKS

Shopee’s guaranteed next-day delivery is a major win for shoppers. Free shipping vouchers are available all day and buyers enjoy a no-questions-asked 15-day return policy. It is fast, forgiving, and fuss-free.

Lazada offers free shipping on selected items and LazMall products often arrive quickly. Returns are usually accepted but policies can vary depending on the seller. Their 100% satisfaction guarantee provides some peace of mind, although it feels less straightforward than Shopee’s blanket return policy.

Verdict: Shopee leads the way with convenience and smoother logistics.

FLASH SALES, FASHION, & TECH

Shopee’s flash sales hit hard with up to 90% off branded items from Timberland, David Jones, and H&M. Vouchers stack across categories including fashion, home, beauty, and electronics. With major discounts on Roborock, PrismPlus, and Samsung, it is easy to get caught in the shopping loop.

Lazada focuses more on big-ticket deals across electronics, appliances, and home essentials. It may not have as many fashion-forward drops, but for large purchases, Lazada gives strong value through bundled discounts and cashback stacking.

Verdict: If you are planning to upgrade your home tech, Lazada offers a more structured deal path.

OVERALL SHOPPING EXPERIENCE

Shopee thrives on daily engagement. Its interface is built around live shopping, surprise vouchers, and limited-time rewards. The campaign feels more interactive, like a shopping game you want to keep playing.

Lazada appeals more to the planner. LazCalendar helps map your buys ahead of time and big-brand deals are usually clean and clearly labeled. It is less flashy, but arguably more efficient for focused shoppers.

Verdict: Shopee is more fun and immersive, while Lazada wins for structure and simplicity. It depends on your shopping habits.

FINAL VERDICT

Image Credits: unsplash.com

If you are chasing everyday value, fast delivery, and the joy of stacking vouchers across categories, Shopee is your go-to this 7.7. But if your eye is on the prize and that prize happens to be a new appliance or serious electronics upgrade, Lazada still holds its ground.

Want the best of both? Compare, claim early, and shop smart. These deals move fast and so should you.

Follow @moneydigest or facebook.com/MoneyDigest for real-time alerts and top picks this GSS season.

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6 Celebrity Brands SG Beauty Lovers Are Obsessed With

Celebrity makeup lines have come a long way. What used to be a hit-or-miss endorsement deal has evolved into full-fledged beauty empires with real staying power.

From inclusive shade ranges to innovative skincare-meets-makeup formulas, these brands have proven they’re not just riding on fame. If you’re wondering which celebrity-owned beauty brands are worth adding to your cart, this curated list highlights the most popular ones that beauty lovers here keep raving about.

#1: LADY GAGA’S HAUS LABS
Where to shop: Sephora

After a rocky global launch in 2019 and a powerful relaunch in 2022, Haus Labs by Lady Gaga is finally here. The brand’s breakout hit, the Triclone Skin Tech Foundation (S$80 for 30ml), is a skincare-infused base available in an impressive 51 shades. Designed to look like second skin, it’s lightweight, breathable, and made for all-day wear.

Image Credits: facebook.com/hauslabs

Haus Labs has also gained a following for its high-performance mascara (S$46), which is safe for sensitive eyes. With bold pigments and clean formulas, it’s clear Lady Gaga isn’t playing it safe and SG queens are here for it.

#2: RIHANNA’S FENTY BEAUTY
Where to shop: Sephora

Rihanna launched Fenty Beauty with inclusivity at its core, making it one of the first major brands to cater to diverse skin tones. Its skin-friendly formulas and versatile textures suit all types – perfect for our multicultural population.

Image Credits: facebook.com/fentybeauty

Some crowd favorites here include the Gloss Bomb Heat Lip Luminizer (S$40), Gloss Bomb Stix (S$39), and the glow-enhancing Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter Duo (S$61). If you ask me, my favorite is the Gloss Bomb Stix Shimmer Lipstick in the shade Flamingo Fling (S$39). Fenty’s message of self-expression resonates deeply, and in our humid climate, its long-wearing, breathable makeup truly stands out.

#3: HUDA KATTAN’S HUDA BEAUTY
Where to shop: Sephora

Founded by Iraqi-American beauty mogul Huda Kattan, Huda Beauty first gained popularity through social media, and it’s still a cult favorite in our local beauty scene. Known for its high coverage and long-wear capabilities, the brand is perfect for those who love full glam looks that last in our tropical weather.

Image Credits: facebook.com/hudabeauty

Top sellers include the Liquid Matte Ultra-Comfort Transfer-Proof Lipstick (S$40), Fauxfilter Luminous Matte Liquid Concealer (S$53), and the dramatic Classic Lash (S$33). Whether you’re attending a wedding, event, or just want to make an impression, Huda’s products help you put your best face forward.

#4: KYLIE COSMETICS BY KYLIE JENNER
Where to shop: Sephora

Kylie Jenner’s brand continues to attract fans with its chic packaging, social media buzz, and glam-girl aesthetic. Kylie Cosmetics has found a loyal customer base here, especially among those who love defined lips and fresh, glowy skin.

Image Credits: kyliecosmetics.com

Top picks include the High Gloss (S$30), Skin Tint Blurring Elixir Foundation (S$50), and the Velvet Liquid Lipstick & Lip Liner Kit (S$55). Whether you’re dressing up for a weekend brunch or heading for drinks at Marina Bay Sands, Kylie’s products have that easy glam factor.

#5: ARIANA GRANDE’S FRAGRANCES
Where to shop: arianagrandefragrances.com, perfumestore.sg, or Zalora

Ariana Grande may be known for her powerhouse vocals, but her fragrances have carved out their own space in the beauty world. With multiple fragrance awards under her belt, Ari’s perfumes are among the most-loved celeb scents globally and Singapore is no exception.

Cloud Eau de Parfum (S$115) is a dreamy mix of lavender, coconut, and vanilla that smells like a soft hug. Thank U Next EDP (S$88) and Sweet Like Candy EDP (S$79) are fruity, flirty, and fun. You can either use it for daily wear or gifting. These scents regularly appear on “best perfume” award lists and continue to be popular across online platforms.

#6: RARE BEAUTY BY SELENA GOMEZ
Where to shop: Sephora

Rare Beauty is more than just pretty packaging as it’s built on the idea of mental wellness and breaking beauty standards. Selena’s brand connects with younger audiences who value authenticity and self-expression.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Best-sellers include the Positive Light Liquid Luminizer (S$44) for a dewy glow and the viral Soft Pinch Dewy Liquid Blush Mini (S$26), a TikTok favorite. The latest hit, Soft Pinch Matte Bouncy Blush (S$44), is winning fans with its airy, non-cakey formula. This works best with Singapore’s heat and humidity.

IN A NUTSHELL

Not every celebrity brand is a guaranteed success, but those that thrive in Singapore offer real value. They stand out with inclusive shade ranges, high-performing products, and a strong emotional connection with customers. Personally, I’m excited that Hailey Bieber’s Rhode will soon be available at Sephora.

Image Credits: facebook.com/theperfumeshoponline

So, whether you’re restocking essentials or trying new scents, these celebrity beauty brands add a touch of Hollywood glamour to your everyday routine.

Sources: 1 & 2

 

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Singapore Pools launching new TOTO MATCH game with fixed payout

Ready for a fresh way to play TOTO? Launching 10 June 2025, Singapore Pools is bringing you a whole new game that blends thrill with simplicity — TOTO MATCH! This all-new way to play TOTO offers fixed cash prizes based on how many numbers you match — no sharing of prize pools, no rollovers, just straight-up wins.

How TOTO MATCH Works

Instead of chasing jackpots, TOTO MATCH rewards you with guaranteed payouts for matching 2, 3, or 4 numbers. Here’s the breakdown:

How to Play

Pick one, two, three or four numbers between 1 and 49.

  • M2: Pick two numbers between 1 and 49 and if your chosen numbers matches the six winning numbers, you win $50
  • M3: Pick three numbers between 1 and 49 and if your chosen number matches the six winning numbers, you win $500.
  • M4: Pick four  numbers between 1 and 49 and if your chosen number matches the six winning numbers, you win $7000.
  • M AN: Pick one number between 1 and 49 and if your chosen number matches the additional number, you win $30. If your chosen number matches the additional number, you win $30.

Want to See It in Action?

Watch the official explainer video here:
👉 TOTO MATCH YouTube Video

For more information, visit the Singapore Pools’ website here.

🔞 Play responsibly. Need help? Call the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1800-6-668-668.

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Where to Sell or Donate Your Preloved Items in Singapore

If your wardrobe is bursting or your shelves are stacked with items you no longer need, it may be time to let them go. Be it making some extra cash, helping others, or reducing waste, there are many responsible ways to declutter in the Lion City.

This guide covers where to sell, donate, or recycle your gently used clothes, shoes, accessories, and household goods.

SELL YOUR PRELOVED ITEMS

Reselling them might be your best option if you have branded clothing, trendy accessories, or household items in good condition. Not only do you declutter, but you might even earn back some of your original investment.

a. ONLINE MARKETPLACES

Digital platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Carousell, and Poshmark allow you to connect directly with buyers. These are perfect for items with niche appeal, trendy fashion pieces, or gadgets.

Simply snap a few photos, write a description, and set your price. You’ll get to negotiate directly with interested buyers and arrange for delivery or pickup at your convenience.

b. REFASH

This local fashion resale brand is a favorite among Singaporeans. REFASH buys trendy women’s clothing and sells them at affordable prices across its brick-and-mortar stores.

Drop your items off at outlets such as Bugis Junction, Wisteria Mall, or Tiong Bahru Plaza. You’ll receive cash or credits to spend in-store. REFASH is a great place to find lightly worn apparel that’s still in season or style.

c. NEW2U THRIFT SHOP

Tucked within the Singapore Council of Women’s Organisations building, New2U is a charitable thrift store with a heart. It accepts clothes, books, accessories, and household items. Proceeds go toward funding women’s and children’s programs.

Shoppers (including my friends) love it for its hidden gems and affordable prices, and donors appreciate that their items support meaningful causes.

d. CASH CONVERTERS

This well-known resale chain buys just about everything: electronics, musical instruments, kitchen gadgets, tools, and fashion items. You can bring your preloved goods to one of their many locations and receive immediate cash offers. Their outlets include: Joo Seng Road (E-Commerce Centre), Ang Mo Kio Avenue 8, New Bridge Road at Chinatown Point, Jurong Gateway Road, Tampines Avenue 1, Toa Payoh Lorong 4 (i.e., the one I usually explore).

Each location features a huge selection of used goods, and it’s a go-to spot for savvy bargain hunters.

DONATE TO THOSE IN NEED

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Prefer to pass your items on as a blessing to someone else? Donation is a fulfilling way to do so.

a. THE SALVATION ARMY

With a long-standing presence in Singapore, The Salvation Army accepts clothing, furniture, household goods, toys, and more. These donations are sold at Family Stores, with proceeds supporting community care programs, including services for the elderly, children, and vulnerable individuals.

Drop-off points include: Tanglin Family Hub, The Haven, Praisehaven, Hope Centre, and IMM.

b. MINDS SHOP

Operated by the Movement for the Intellectually Disabled of Singapore, these thrift stores offer more than resale. They provide vocational training and employment for persons with intellectual disabilities. Donated items are sorted, priced, and sold by MINDS trainees, giving them essential skills and opportunities.

You can drop your donations at Margaret Drive, 800 Margaret Drive or Woodlands, 30 Woodlands Ring Road.

c. H&M GARMENT COLLECTING PROGRAM

This global initiative encourages customers to recycle their unwanted clothes from any brand and in any condition. Simply bring them to any H&M outlet in Singapore. Locations include: ION Orchard, JEM, NEX, Kallang Wave Mall, and VivoCity.

You’ll receive a discount voucher as a thank-you, and the clothing is either reworn, repurposed, or recycled into insulation materials or new textiles. I can attest to this as I’ve tried it myself.

d. GREENSQUARE

Focused on textile recycling, Greensquare collects items directly from homes and also operates drop-off points. They accept clothes, household linens, bags, and shoes in any dry condition. Items are sorted and sold to secondhand importers in developing countries, promoting a circular economy.

Key drop-off spots include: Alexandra Technopark, Fusionopolis One and Two, NUS Utown Residence, The Green Collective at Funan, and Viva Business Mall.

e. ITSRAININGRAINCOATS

Focused on uplifting Singapore’s migrant workers, this nonprofit operates the inspIRRe store, where workers can shop for free. Donations should be in excellent condition and include:

  1. Men’s apparel and footwear
  2. Luggage, duffel bags, and backpacks
  3. Sports gear, water bottles, and accessories
  4. Small appliances like rice cookers or power banks

It’s located at 470 Upper Paya Lebar Road.

g. SG MUMMIES UNITED

What began as a humble Facebook group during the 2020 circuit breaker has grown into a bustling blessings community. The group connects struggling mothers with those who can offer help. Common donation items include: diapers, baby formula, baby gear and toys, secondhand children’s clothing, and books.

Requests are posted daily, and you can respond directly to offer what you have. Join their Facebook group to participate.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

What are you waiting for? Let your preloved items find a second life!

Sources: 1,2, & 3

 

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How Do U.S. Tariffs Affect Online Shopping for Singaporeans?

U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff policies introduced significant changes that could impact online shoppers in Singapore, particularly when buying from American retailers or goods subject to U.S. trade regulations.

UNDERSTANDING TARIFFS

Tariffs are taxes imposed on imported goods, and the U.S. has long used them to regulate trade. These taxes can lead to higher prices for goods and services, influencing overall consumer spending and contributing to inflation.

IMPACT ON ONLINE SHOPPING

One key change under Trump’s tariff plan was the end of the tax exemption for low-value Chinese imports, known as the “De Minimis” provision. This provision previously allowed certain low-cost goods from China and Hong Kong to enter the U.S. duty-free. The policy change, effective last May 2, means that such goods are now subject to tariffs before reaching the U.S. market.

While this policy directly targets imports into the U.S., its ripple effects can be felt globally, including by Singaporean consumers.

WHY SINGAPOREANS ARE AFFECTED

Many Singaporeans shop online from U.S.-based platforms or purchase U.S. brands that rely on Chinese manufacturing. When tariffs increase the cost of these goods before they even reach American warehouses or online retailers, the additional costs are often passed down the supply chain (i.e., including to international buyers).

According to Professor Kirthi Kalyanam from Santa Clara University’s Leavey School of Business:

“You will definitely be paying more and there’s no question about that,” he explains. “Customers should also expect disruptions and delays as these new tariff policies are rolled out.”

Image Credits: unsplash.com

PRICES INCREASE BY PRODUCT TYPE

If a broad 25% tariff is fully applied to finished goods, near-term price increases are estimated at:

a. 9.5% for investment goods (e.g., electronics, machinery)

b. 2.2% for consumer goods (e.g., clothing, home products)

For Singaporeans, this means that electronics or other high-value items bought from U.S. platforms could become significantly more expensive. Additionally, shipping delays or disruptions may occur due to the uncertain implementation of trade policies.

INFLATION & ECONOMIC EFFECTS

The impact of these tariffs on global inflation depends on several factors, including the proportion of imports in affected goods and how they contribute to overall pricing indexes. The Yale Budget Lab estimated in 2025 that average U.S. tariff rates could hover around 25%, though the exact rate may vary by product and country.

IN A NUTSHELL

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Although the U.S. tariff changes primarily target goods entering the U.S., they indirectly affect international consumers like Singaporeans by increasing prices and delaying shipments of American and other products. If you’re shopping online from U.S. platforms, especially for items involving Chinese manufacturing, expect higher costs and slower delivery times.

Sources: 1 & 2

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