A January survey by Citigroup has found that bet volumes from so-called “whales” in Macau surged by 72% year on year, pointing to a robust rebound in high-end play despite ongoing concerns around margins and regulatory constraints. The findings suggest that top-tier players are returning to the market in greater force, contributing meaningfully to headline gaming volumes at the start of 2026.
The Governor of Hokkaido has called on the Japan central government to reassess its integrated resort (IR) policy, questioning why only one project has successfully secured approval nationwide so far. Speaking publicly, the governor suggested that the outcome reflects structural and regulatory challenges within Japan’s IR framework rather than a lack of interest or capability among regional governments.
Thailand’s deposed Pheu Thai Party has officially dropped its long-debated casino legalisation policy, pivoting instead toward positioning the country as a global hub for wellness and medical tourism. The move marks a significant policy recalibration, distancing the party from gaming liberalisation amid persistent political sensitivities and public concern over social impacts associated with casino development.
A renewed surge in VIP gaming volumes has prompted JPMorgan to trim its Macau EBITDA forecasts, warning that the recovery’s composition is becoming less favorable for margins. While headline gross gaming revenue (GGR) continues to show resilience, the investment bank cautioned that a heavier reliance on VIP play—traditionally lower-margin and more volatile than mass-market gaming—is diluting profitability across the sector.
The Cape Verde government has formally taken over an unfinished hotel-casino project originally developed by Macau Legend Development, marking a decisive intervention aimed at preventing further deterioration of a long-stalled investment. The project, envisioned as a flagship tourism and gaming development, had remained incomplete for years due to financial and operational challenges faced by the Macau-listed firm.
Author: Janice Chew • Monday, 19/01/2026
