KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 5 (Bernama) -- Bursa Malaysia closed lower on Friday amid mixed regional market performance as investors turned cautious over a possible rate hike by the Bank of Japan (BOJ) and upcoming US economic data that may influence the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) interest rate decision next week. At 5 pm, the FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI (FBM KLCI) pared most earlier losses to settle 4.55 points easier, or 0.28 per cent, to 1,616.52 from Thursday’s close of 1,621.07. The benchmark index, which opened 0.37 of-a-point lower at 1,620.70, moved between 1,609.67 and 1,621.25 throughout the day. The broader market was negative, with decliners outpacing advancers 604 to 439. A total of 550 counters were unchanged, 1,151 untraded, and 18 suspended. Turnover declined to 3.17 billion units worth RM2.24 billion from 4.48 billion units worth RM2.75 billion yesterday. Rakuten Trade Sdn Bhd vice-presiden...
Deflationary pressure in China, which has already pushed down prices of cars and fast food, is now reshaping the country’s US$38 billion medical aesthetics market.
So-Young Pushes Prices to Record Lows
So-Young International Inc has launched 33 clinics across major cities, offering chemical peels for 149 yuan (US$21) and skin boosters for 399 yuan. The company says there is further room to cut costs, moving closer to South Korea — the benchmark for affordable cosmetic treatments.
Average spending per customer at So-Young clinics is about 2,000 yuan, far below the sector average of 6,500 yuan, according to CEO Xing Jin. “As prices approach Korean levels, convenience will keep more consumers at home for treatments,” he said.
Rising Competition from E-Commerce Players
The push could ignite a broader price war. JD.com Inc has already opened two cosmetic clinics in Beijing, undercutting rivals on certain procedures. Internet platforms such as Meituan and Douyin are also expanding into medical aesthetics, adding pressure on margins.
Quality Concerns and Consumer Skepticism
Despite aggressive pricing, questions remain over product quality and safety. So-Young sells the Chinese-made Loviselle filler at one-third of its recommended retail price, but some consumers remain cautious about ultracheap treatments. Distrust of locally made healthcare products persists, with many clients still seeking procedures in South Korea or premium domestic clinics.
Financial Strain and Growth Plans
So-Young has reported losses in three of the past four years and is expected to remain in the red through 2025, even as beauty-clinic revenue surged 426% in the second quarter. To sustain growth, the firm plans to expand to 50 clinics by year-end and to 1,000 within eight years, aiming to place outlets within 15 minutes’ reach in major commercial hubs.
Outlook
China’s medical aesthetics industry is entering a new phase of hyper-competition. While lower prices may draw more clients away from South Korea, the challenge for providers will be balancing affordability with quality — and doing so without eroding profitability.
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