Survey: Over 70% of HKers loosen purse strings on dining this V-day

It's Valentine's Day and Hongkongers are loosening up their purse strings as over 70% of respondents plan to dine out with their partners, according to a survey by matchmaking company HK Romance Dating (HKRD). 

Conducted between 13 January to 4 February through phone interviews, events, and online questionnaires, the survey involved 461 couples and spouses to explore their gift-giving and spending patterns for Valentine's Day, along with reasons behind their choices.

The survey revealed that Hongkongers are more willing to spend on dining compared to last year, with 72% of men and 76% of women planning to dine out with their partners. Additionally, 40% of men and 42% of women expect to spend between HK$1,001 and HK$2,000, while 34% of men and 32% of women expect or spend between HK$501 and HK$1,000.

The survey also showed that 38% of men and 31% of women have no plans for Valentine's Day, similar to last year's figures. Among those with plans, 48% of men said they will celebrate at home, while 51% of women said they will go to the movies. Additionally, 41% of men and 38% of women choose shopping, reflecting a decline in percentages compared to their celebration methods in 2024.

However, some said they will celebrate the occasion outside Hong Kong, with 21% of the men travelling to mainland China, while 16% plan to travel overseas. For women, the figures were 21% and 22% respectively, showing an upward trend in travel compared to last year.

In terms of Valentine's Day gifts, most respondents plan to spend between HK$1,001 and HK$5,000 on gifts. This year, 8% of men expressed a desire to avoid spending money, up from 5% last year. Additionally, nearly 25% of Hongkongers do not want their partners to spend money on Valentine's Day celebrations, with 27% of men and 24% of women feeling this way, reflecting an increase compared to last year.

Meanwhile, over 80% of male and female respondents said they would shop at physical stores, reflecting Hongkongers' desire of buying items in person. The most preferred gift among men is digital electronics, accounting for 38%. Meanwhile, the most sought-after gift is watches or jewelry, making up 51%. 

When it comes to gifts they least want to receive, 47% of men said they do not wish to receive theme park tickets, followed by flowers at 43%. For women, the least desired gifts are stationery, at 46%, and stuffed animals/toys/models at 37%. Furthermore, 47% of men and 28% of women said they have not thought about receiving gifts.

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In fact, the HKRD's survey aligns with a recent study conducted by digital investment platform Syfe and dating app Coffee Meets Bagel, which seeks to explore Hongkongers' attitudes toward money in dating and relationships. 

The survey revealed that 86% of respondents consider financial skills an ideal trait in a partner, particularly among younger individuals. All respondents aged 18 to 24 agree, while 89% of those aged 25 to 34 feel the same. Additionally, 65% find knowledge about investments attractive, especially among those aged 18 to 24. These findings indicate that the younger generation increasingly values financial savvy in relationships, underscoring the importance of financial stability.

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