No More $1,000 Red Packets for Chinese New Year, but Other Unique Designs Still Available
In light of the ongoing pandemic, Chinese New Year celebrations are expected to be quieter this year, with many adjustments to traditional practices. The exchanging of red packets (hongbaos) is no exception, with a push towards giving electronic red packets instead. However, some companies continue to offer unique and quirky designs for those looking to add a special touch to their celebrations.
One such design was the $1,000 banknote red packet, created by local design studio wheniwasfour. Unfortunately, these packets will no longer be available after the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) intervened. The MAS warned the studio that any products reproducing Singapore’s currency—either in part or in full—must be approved by the authority.
The design studio announced on January 29 that, due to logistics issues and MAS’ warning, they would cease production and cancel existing orders. Customers who have not received their red packets will be refunded. Despite this setback, other quirky red packet designs are still available for those seeking something out of the ordinary for the Year of the Ox.