Macau’s gaming sector is swinging back into gear with remarkable strength. For the first 24 days of August 2025, its gross gaming revenue (GGR) reached approximately MOP 17.65 billion (around US $2.2 billion), averaging about MOP 735 million (US $91.9 million) per day. As reported by JP Morgan, last week’s daily run-rate surged 9% week-over-week to MOP 793 million (US $99.1 million), compared to MOP 710 million earlier in the month—and even eclipsing July’s average of MOP 714 million. This marks the most robust non‑Golden Week performance since the pandemic struck.
India’s Parliament has passed the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, which completely prohibits all forms of real-money online games—whether based on skill or chance. The law also bans advertisements, financial transactions, and platform offerings tied to such games, leaving only e-sports and social or educational gaming models untouched and subject to regulation.
Sands China Ltd is charting a bold path forward with plans to boost its annual dividend payouts to a whopping US $1.5 billion, anticipating that business conditions in Macau will improve significantly. This ambitious target represents nearly triple its current distribution levels and underscores a renewed focus on delivering shareholder value. According to Seaport Research Partners, Sands China is prioritising the return of capital to investors and expects that once performance rebounds, this elevated dividend level is entirely feasible — with its parent, Las Vegas Sands (LVS), receiving approximately 72% of the payout.
Suntrust Resort Holdings Inc., the gaming operator behind the $1.1 billion Westside City integrated resort in Metro Manila, has confirmed that despite an accumulated deficit of PHP 4.76 billion (approximately US$ 85.2 million) as of June 30, 2025, its financial footing remains stable. In its recent quarterly filing with the Philippine Stock Exchange, the company explicitly ruled out any material uncertainty regarding its going‑concern status, citing ongoing progress and expected future revenue once its resort is completed.
Thailand’s suspended Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, recently took the stand in court ahead of a crucial August 29, 2025 verdict—a hearing that could determine her political future. The case stems from a controversial phone call with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen, which was leaked and sparked allegations that she betrayed national interests and breached ethical duties. This scandal led to her suspension by Thailand’s Constitutional Court.
Author: Janice Chew • Monday, 25/08/2025
