Investment bank JP Morgan has expressed surprise over the unexpected share price declines seen in Sands China and Melco Resorts & Entertainment, noting that the sell-off does not appear to be supported by any clear deterioration in fundamentals. In a recent research note, analysts said they were “baffled” by the sharp pullback, particularly as both operators continue to demonstrate stable operational trends within Macau’s recovering gaming market.
Century Entertainment International Holdings Limited has announced plans to develop online gaming applications through a newly established joint venture with a partner based in the Philippines, signalling a strategic move to diversify beyond its existing land-based casino exposure. According to disclosures, the joint venture will focus on the design, development and operation of online gaming platforms targeting regulated and permissible markets, aligning with broader digitalisation trends across the Asian gaming industry.
Analysts at Citigroup concluded that Macau’s major casino concessionaires saw less improvement in operating leverage during the December 2025 quarter than expected largely because of higher incremental operating expenses tied to external events and structural changes, despite underlying revenue growth trends.
In a bold step toward transforming Macau from a gambling-centric destination into a diversified global entertainment hub, Galaxy Entertainment Group (GEG) reported that it hosted 212 entertainment and sports events in 2025, reinforcing its role in advancing the city’s non-gaming tourism ambitions. The announcement, made in early January 2026, highlights how the company’s events strategy aligns with Macau’s broader policy to develop into a “World City of Entertainment.”
A recent investigation has uncovered a growing network of illegal gambling dens in Seoul that exclude Korean citizens, instead targeting Chinese residents and visitors, according to a report by Chosun Daily. These establishments, located primarily in Garibong-dong, Guro-gu, have reportedly proliferated alongside increases in the local Chinese population and tourist flows, with more than 100 operations identified featuring slot machines and mahjong tables that prohibit entry to Koreans, allowing only those with Chinese identification to gamble.
Author: Janice Chew • Saturday, 10/01/2026
