MasterCard sees a rise in spending during GSS

MasterCard cardholders spent a lot during the Great Singapore Sale (GSS) this year. The spending rose by 2.2 percent compared to last year due to increased purchases by tourists.

According to MasterCard, SGD708 million was spent by visiting cardholders during the Great Singapore Sale. Compared to last year, this year saw a decline in the spending by the local cardholders as the amount fell from S$1. 46 billion (last year) to S$1.41 billion this year. The total spending by MasterCard cardholders came up to SGD2.121 billion, which is more than last year's SGD2.076 billion.

Before May 2015, tourism saw a decline in Singapore. In May, there was a rise in the tourists’ numbers in the Island nation due to campaigns by the Singapore Tourism Board. It was also due to an increase in Indian and Chinese tourists. People from Australia, China and Malaysia topped the list of highest spenders this year and the money was spent mostly in eating places and restaurants.