In a decisive move to bolster integrity in public service, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has issued Memorandum Circular No. 2025‑082, imposing an immediate ban on all forms of online gambling for its personnel and local government officials (LGUs), citing serious ethical concerns. The directive, aligned with the 1987 Constitution and the Code of Conduct for public officials, extends the existing prohibition on brick-and-mortar casinos to online platforms, recognizing that their accessibility can pose an even greater threat to institutional credibility (DILG statement).
Wynn Macau Ltd has unveiled a bold US$1 billion senior notes offering, signaling its strategic intent to strengthen financial flexibility amid ongoing expansion commitments. In a filing dated August 13, 2025, the Macau casino operator announced the issuance of 6.750 percent senior notes due 2034, with interest beginning to accrue on August 19, 2025. The offering was arranged through a purchase agreement executed with Deutsche Bank AG, Singapore Branch, acting as representative for the initial purchasers.
Universal Entertainment Corporation, the parent company behind Okada Manila, has formally concluded the sale of its majority stake in Asiabest Group International Inc., marking the latest chapter in its evolving strategic roadmap. On August 8, 2025, Universal’s Hong Kong-based subsidiary, Tiger Resort Asia Ltd., completed the transfer of its 66.67 percent stake in the Philippine-listed entity to PremiumLands Corp., a privately held real estate developer, for a sum of PHP 510.4 million (approximately US$9 million).
Galaxy Entertainment Group has emerged as one of Macau’s most resilient and forward-looking gaming giants in the first half of 2025. Reporting a robust net profit of HKD 5.24 billion (US $667.6 million), the company achieved a 19.4 percent year-on-year jump in earnings. Reflecting this confidence, Galaxy has declared an interim dividend of HKD 0.70 per share, payable on October 31, underscoring its commitment to shareholders amid ongoing market uncertainties.
In a dramatic reversal of fortunes, The Star Entertainment Group has finally secured a binding agreement to sell its 50% stake in the Queen’s Wharf Brisbane integrated resort to long-standing joint venture partners, Chow Tai Fook Enterprises (CTFE) and Far East Consortium (FEC). The deal revives negotiations that had collapsed at the start of August, forcing Star into a precarious financial position—one that included looming repayment obligations of up to A$41 million to its partners.
Author: Janice Chew • Wednesday, 13/08/2025
