Vietnam is poised to fundamentally alter how its citizens gain access to domestic casinos. Under a new proposal by the Ministry of Finance, the existing requirement for Vietnamese locals to prove financial capacity—a cumbersome rule limiting access—is set to be replaced with a straightforward entry‑fee model. Public consultation is now underway for this plan, which has already earned approval from the Politburo and awaits formal government legislation.
In a move that reasserts Melco Resorts’ commitment to premium hospitality, Lawrence Ho, Chairman and CEO of Melco Resorts & Entertainment, announced on August 1, 2025 that the long‑stalled Countdown Hotel at City of Dreams Macau will be completely transformed into an all‑suite, high‑end luxury hotel. The existing 330‑room property will be reimagined as a boutique tower featuring approximately 150 expansive suites, each averaging over 1,000 square feet, with the rebrand and reopening slated for the third quarter of 2026.
On August 4, 2025, Dae Sik Han, Chairman and CEO of Hann Philippines Inc., revealed the rationale behind moving forward with an IPO for Hann Holdings Inc., the parent company behind the integrated Hann Casino Resort in Clark Freeport Zone. In an interview on One News, Han stated the public listing was necessary “to ensure no delays” in executing his ambitious development roadmap.
In early August 2025, Wynn Macau Ltd. announced a significant expansion of its revolving credit facility, securing an additional US $1 billion in senior unsecured financing—raising its total committed revolving facility to US $2.5 billion.
On August 2, 2025, Colombo witnessed the grand unveiling of City of Dreams Sri Lanka, a US $1.2 billion joint venture between Melco Resorts & Entertainment and John Keells Holdings—marking the nation’s largest private investment ever and its first fully integrated resort.
Author: Janice Chew • Tuesday, 05/08/2025
