Japan’s northern prefecture of Hokkaido has set aside approximately US$65,000 in its latest budget to conduct fresh research into the feasibility of developing a casino-integrated resort (IR), according to multiple regional media sources.
While modest in size, the allocation signals that Hokkaido is not closing the door on potential participation in Japan’s future IR expansion rounds.
Chinese embassies in both Singapore and Vietnam have issued public advisories urging Chinese nationals to refrain from gambling during the Chinese New Year (CNY) period, reinforcing Beijing’s long-standing policy stance against overseas gaming activities.
Macau welcomed more than 215,000 visitors during the first two days of the Chinese New Year (CNY) Golden Week, reinforcing expectations of a strong seasonal rebound for the city’s tourism and integrated resort (IR) sector.
Melco Resorts & Entertainment has officially dropped plans to divest its stake in City of Dreams Manila, signaling renewed strategic confidence in the Philippines’ integrated resort (IR) market.
The reversal comes after months of strategic review during which Melco had explored monetisation options for the Manila asset as part of broader capital allocation optimisation. However, improving operational trends and long-term growth visibility have prompted the company to retain ownership.
Hong Kong’s 2026 rich list once again highlights the enduring power of integrated resorts, property and luxury retail capital, with Henry Cheng and Francis Lui securing places among the city’s Top 10 wealthiest individuals.
Multiple financial rankings and regional wealth trackers this year point to a stabilisation in gaming-linked fortunes, particularly those exposed to Macau’s premium-mass driven recovery. For Asia-Pacific IR stakeholders, the message is clear: capital confidence in Macau remains intact.
Author: Janice Chew • Thursday, 19/02/2026
