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Asia Gaming eBrief: Gaming takes bigger share of Macau visitor budgets

AGBrief Editorial
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Asia Gaming eBrief: Gaming takes bigger share of Macau visitor budgets
Good morning. The house still has the pull. A CLSA survey shows Macau gaming taking a bigger slice of mainland visitors’ travel budgets, even as trip intentions remain broadly steady. Casino play now accounts for 41 percent of reasons to visit, the highest in the survey’s three-year run, while gaming’s share of planned budgets rose to 24 percent as entertainment and shopping lost ground. Meanwhile, Seaport expects July GGR to drop 7 percent to 9 percent year-on-year, with the World Cup still weighing on play and no relief in sight on reinvestment costs. In Australia, a $2.7 million US tariff refund has given Ainsworth an unexpected lift, with the slot maker raising its 1H26 profit guidance and cutting its net debt forecast.

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MACAU

Macau Labor Day holiday arrivals exceed 630K, May 2nd hits record high

Gaming takes a bigger share of Macau visitors’ travel budgets

A CLSA survey points to a renewed focus on casino play among mainland Chinese visitors to Macau, despite the city’s wider non-gaming diversification push. The report found that gaming accounted for 41 percent of respondents’ reasons for visiting Macau and 24 percent of planned travel budgets. Meanwhile, 79 percent of surveyed consumers said they intend to visit the city over the next year, indicating broadly steady demand.

Industry Updates

Corporate Spotlight

How Crypto Adoption in Asia is Changing iGaming Payments

Yevhen Krazhan, CSO for GR8 Tech

Yevhen Krazhan, CSO at GR8 Tech, explores how surging crypto adoption across Asia is revolutionizing iGaming payments, stating: “When I look at what’s changing fastest in Asia, it’s payment behavior,” as wallets, stablecoins, and seamless cross-border transfers become deeply ingrained in player habits. The winning operators will be those that offer fast, reliable, and local deposits and withdrawals. To make sense of it, Yevhen breaks Asia into two crypto realities.

INTELLIGENCE | ASEAN | AWARDS | CAREERS | EVENTS

MannBenham and Manavia launch Data Asset Foundation Knowledge Hub

AGBrief Editorial
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MannBenham and Manavia launch Data Asset Foundation Knowledge Hub

MannBenham Advocates and Manavia have announced the launch of the Data Asset Foundation Knowledge Hub, a dedicated online resource for organisations, advisers and data-rich businesses seeking to understand the Isle of Man’s new Data Asset Foundation regime.

The Knowledge Hub, available at dataassetfoundation.co, has been created to provide clear, practical and commercially focused information on Data Asset Foundations, including how they may support data governance, AI development, data licensing, collaboration, registration, stewardship and long-term commercial value.

Data has become one of the most important assets in the modern economy. It powers artificial intelligence, supports regulatory compliance, improves decision-making and creates new opportunities for licensing, partnerships and digital products.

Yet many organisations still lack a clear legal and governance structure through which valuable data can be identified, protected, governed and commercialised.

The Isle of Man Data Asset Foundation regime is designed to help address that gap.

A Data Asset Foundation provides a dedicated structure through which qualifying data can be held, governed, registered and used in accordance with defined objects, rules and oversight arrangements. For data-rich organisations, this may create a clearer route for turning data from an internal business resource into a governed commercial asset.

The Knowledge Hub has been developed by MannBenham Advocates and Manavia to help the market understand the regime, the terminology, the commercial use cases and the practical steps involved in considering whether a Data Asset Foundation may be appropriate.

The site includes introductory guidance, practical explainers and market-facing resources for organisations exploring data licensing, AI training and validation, data marketplaces, multi-party collaboration, research and life sciences use cases, financial services intelligence, gaming data, infrastructure data and other data-led opportunities.

MannBenham and Manavia bring together legal, fiduciary, governance and implementation capability from one Isle of Man platform. The combined proposition is designed to support clients from early opportunity assessment through to structuring, documentation, establishment, administration and ongoing governance.

Carly Stratton, Director of MannBenham
Carly Stratton

Commenting on the release, Carly Stratton, Director of MannBenham, said: “Data is increasingly being recognised as a core commercial asset. The challenge for many organisations is not whether they hold valuable data, but whether they have the right structure to govern it, evidence it, protect it and use it commercially. The Data Asset Foundation Knowledge Hub has been created to help organisations understand that opportunity and the role the Isle of Man regime may play.”

The launch reflects MannBenham and Manavia’s commitment to helping position the Isle of Man as a leading jurisdiction for data asset structuring, fiduciary governance and innovation in the digital economy.

Organisations interested in exploring the Data Asset Foundation regime can visit dataassetfoundation.co or contact MannBenham and Manavia for an initial discussion.

Ainsworth lifts 1H26 profit guidance after $2.7 million tariff refund

Viviana Chan
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Ainsworth lifts 1H26 profit guidance after $2.7 million tariff refund

Australian slot machine manufacturer Ainsworth Game Technology has raised its profit and cash flow guidance for the six months ended June 30th, 2026, after receiving a $2.7 million (AU$3.8 million) refund of tariffs paid under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).

The company now expects underlying profit before tax of approximately AU$5 million ($3.6 million) and EBITDA of AU$17 million ($12.1 million), excluding currency impacts and one-off items, up from the AU$1 million ($710,000) and AU$13 million ($9.2 million) flagged in its previous trading update in May.

Revenue guidance is unchanged at approximately AU$116 million ($82.4 million), down 24 percent year-on-year, mainly reflecting weaker North American sales.

Ainsworth’s US subsidiary received the refund on June 30th, representing substantially all of the tariffs it had previously paid under IEEPA, following a US Supreme Court ruling on February 20th that the Act does not authorize the US administration to impose tariffs.

The group now expects positive operating cash flows of around AU$8 million ($5.7 million), with net debt falling to approximately AU$8 million ($5.7 million), compared with the AU$14 million ($9.9 million) projected in May. The company also cited stronger-than-anticipated cash collection.

The results remain subject to period-end close and review procedures, with full 1H26 financial results due on or around August 25th.

Hemisphere to run New Zealand’s Safer Gambling Aotearoa harm-reduction platform

Frank Schuengel
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Hemisphere to run New Zealand’s Safer Gambling Aotearoa harm-reduction platform

New Zealand advertising agency Hemisphere has won a three-year contract to run Health New Zealand’s Safer Gambling Aotearoa platform, taking over the government’s minimizing gambling harm account following a competitive tender.

The agency will handle strategy, creative, media, and research for the national public health initiative, which it plans to deliver as a single integrated program aimed at communities where gambling-related harm is most prevalent. The work centers on raising awareness, encouraging behavior change, and improving access to support services, according to Campaign Brief NZ, which first reported the appointment.

Central to Hemisphere’s proposal is a partnership with Big River Creative, a Māori-owned agency led by Te Awanui Reeder. The two companies said their approach would guide campaigns targeting Māori, Pacific, Asian, and rangatahi (youth) communities. Hemisphere managing director Tim Antric described the assignment as social marketing and said the agency had worked in the gambling harm field for an extended period.

Hemisphere said its earlier harm-reduction work for Te Hiringa Hauora increased use of self-help tools by 88 percent and contributed to an estimated NZD13 million ($7.9 million) reduction in social harm costs.

The appointment comes as New Zealand prepares to open its first regulated online casino market. The Online Casino Gambling Act 2026 took effect on May 1st, and the Department of Internal Affairs is expected to begin a three-stage licensing process in July, capping the market at 15 licensed operators. Applications are due by December 1st, after which unlicensed operators must cease offering services to New Zealand customers or face penalties of up to NZD5 million ($3 million).

Data from the New Zealand Gambling Survey 2023/24 has shown that offshore online gambling participation is concentrated among younger men and certain ethnic groups, particularly in areas of social deprivation—the same communities the harm-reduction program is designed to reach.

UAE Lottery expands H.O.P.E. CSR program with new SAGIP campaign

AGBrief Editorial
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UAE Lottery expands H.O.P.E. CSR program with new SAGIP campaign

The UAE Lottery, the Philippine Consulate General, and Infinite Communities have joined forces to deliver the SAGIP initiative, a comprehensive support program for Filipino expats in the UAE.

The SAGIP initiative, which stands for “Rescue” in Filipino, took place on 28 June 2026 at the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai, provided beneficiaries with essential groceries alongside valuable career guidance and wellness counseling.

The campaign was further strengthened by the voluntary contributions of local Filipino businesses, human resources practitioners, medical and healthcare professionals, psychologists, and community volunteers, helping deliver a holistic and person-centred support programme for beneficiaries. 

Commenting on the support program, Consul Aleah Marie Gica said: “The Filipino community in the UAE has always demonstrated resilience and unity during difficult times. Community outreach programs such as SAGIP reflect the strength of collaboration between institutions and community organisations working together to support those most in need.” 

“Through our Good Neighbour initiative and our collaboration with The UAE Lottery and the Philippine Consulate, we hope to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals feel seen, supported, and empowered to move forward with dignity and confidence,” added Elena C. Cruz, Founder and CEO of Infinite Communities.

Suzan Kazzi, Associate Director of CSR at Momentum – The UAE Lottery, shared: “At a time when many members of the Filipino community are facing various challenges, we aim to provide not only immediate relief through grocery pack distribution, but also pathways toward resilience and renewed opportunities. Through our HR specialists who volunteered their time and expertise, the career coaching sessions were designed to help beneficiaries navigate uncertainty, regain confidence, and reconnect with employment opportunities through practical advice and guidance.”

Through H.O.P.E, which focuses on Healthcare, Opportunities, Planet and Enrichment, The UAE Lottery continues to demonstrate its commitment to developing socially responsible initiatives that contribute positively to various communities across the UAE. 

ELA Games records 201% growth in Greece following localization push

AGBrief Editorial
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ELA Games records 201% growth in Greece following localization push

ELA Games has unlocked substantial growth in Greece by delivering the content and experiences local players demand, turning strategic market positioning into tangible results.

Over the last two quarters, the studio’s certified portfolio has established a notable presence in the region, with recent performance metrics highlighting this rapid ascension.

Outstanding Results

  • 201.90% surge in overall bet counts
  • 86.30% increase in active users
  • 77.20% jump in turnover

Focused on Extraordinary Visual Design and Player Preferences

One of the biggest factors behind these metrics is a strong alignment with local player preferences. ELA Games’ portfolio performs exceptionally well in Greece precisely because it provides exactly what the market demands.

The studio combines beautiful, detailed artwork with striking visual designs to create immersive, narrative-led experiences. With such a wide variety of engaging slots, ELA Games is helping top operators keep players happy while fundamentally improving the everyday gaming experience.

This visual-first philosophy is perfectly reflected in the data. The studio’s top-three performing titles in Greece, the vibrant celebrations of Piñatas Festival, the fast-paced mechanics of Riches Express, and the blazing aesthetic of Flame Fruits Frenzy, each demonstrate the studio’s ability to blend top-quality aesthetics with interactive and transportative gameplay.

Operator Impact and Expansion

As this regional strategy continues to show results, the industry’s most prominent operators are taking note. This measurable growth played a major role in securing a strategic partnership with Fonbet, one of the most respected operators in the Greek market.

The integration establishes an exclusive hub for ELA Games’ evolving catalog and gives local players direct access to the studio’s signature mechanics and entertainment. It stands as a clear indicator that the studio’s customized methods translate directly into sustainable business value for its partners.

Yaroslav Soloshenko, Business Development Team Lead at ELA Games, summarized the importance of this ongoing expansion: “When we look at the numbers, it is satisfying to see that our regional strategy is paying off in such a big way. We spend a lot of time analyzing what players in specific markets want to see. Our unique design philosophy combined with that regional focus has resulted in proven commercial success across our main European markets, and Greece is a perfect example of that in action.”

Japan leads OECD tourism growth as arrivals hit record high

Viviana Chan
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Japan leads OECD tourism growth as arrivals hit record high

Japan was one of the strongest tourism performers among OECD and partner economies in 2025, with international tourist arrivals rising by double digits and reaching a record high, according to the OECD Tourism Trends and Policies 2026 report.

The OECD, or the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, is a policy forum and data hub whose member countries include major economies across Europe, North America, South America and the Asia-Pacific. The 2026 tourism report covers 53 OECD and partner countries, meaning it includes both OECD member economies and selected partner markets.

The report showed that Japan’s international tourist arrivals rose by 15.8 percent in 2025, following a 47.1 percent rebound in 2024. The OECD said the recovery in Japan and Korea was supported by expanded air connectivity and a weak yen.

Japan also ranked as the fastest-growing destination in the OECD’s comparison of countries that recorded more than 10 percent growth in international tourist arrivals between 2019 and 2025, with 2025 marking a new record.

The tourism gains come as Japan prepares for MGM Osaka, the country’s first integrated resort with a casino, which is scheduled to open in 2030.

Across OECD countries, international tourist arrivals rose by an estimated 3.4 percent in 2025 to 847 million, after increasing 8.1 percent in 2024. The tourism sector directly contributed 4.0 percent of GDP and 19.3 percent of services exports, while supporting wider activity in transport, retail, agriculture and other sectors.

However, the OECD warned that tourism resilience is being tested by geopolitical uncertainty, changing traveler behavior and extreme weather-related events. It said the conflict in the Middle East had disrupted global travel flows, increased costs and weighed on traveler confidence, particularly for destinations in the region and those reliant on Gulf aviation hubs.

‘Tourism continues to grow, generating business opportunities, jobs and tax revenues across the OECD,’ OECD Secretary-General Mathias Cormann said.

The OECD said governments need more flexible and coordinated policies to manage visitor flows, strengthen crisis preparedness and ensure tourism growth delivers broader economic, social and environmental benefits.

Gaming Realms to launch ‘Slingo 49’s’ via new SIS licensing deal

AGBrief Editorial
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Gaming Realms to launch ‘Slingo 49’s’ via new SIS licensing deal

Gaming Realms has signed a licensing agreement with SIS to develop a Slingo title based on the supplier’s popular fixed-odds live numbers draw 49’s. 

SIS announces new Competitive Gaming leadership team to drive business growth

The deal marks the first time that SIS has licensed the IP for its world-renowned portfolio of numbers products, with the original 49’s live draw played by millions around the globe.

A Slingo version will be launched in July 2026, merging the popular Slingo concept with the 49’s branding, theme tune and its live presenters making an appearance throughout the game.

Gaming Realms’ unique Slingo format is the core mechanic powering the game, with players spinning the reel to match numbers on the board to climb the Slingo ladder for incrementally increasing prizes.

Gaming Realms renews licensing agreement with Light & Wonder

Slingo 49’s will be made available to all of Gaming Realms’ global operator partners with the live draw product having particular appeal to players in the UK and Africa.

Licensing of established third-party IP is a key strand of Gaming Realms’ strategy, an approach that combines brand recognition with the distinctive Slingo mechanic, delivering unique experiences for players.

Gareth Scott, Chief Commercial Officer at Gaming Realms, said: “Partnering with SIS to bring the iconic 49’s and Slingo together is a fascinating collaboration. The 49’s live draw is an adjacent gaming vertical and one of the most popular numbers products internationally, with a loyal following built over decades.”

2026 marks a major milestone 12 months for both brands, with 49’s and Slingo each celebrating their 30th anniversaries. The collaboration brings together two globally recognised brands with decades of heritage and loyal player communities, combining the nostalgia and familiarity of 49’s with the proven appeal of Slingo’s gameplay.

“We’re delighted to partner with Gaming Realms to bring 49’s to life in a completely new format,” added Jess Mills, Head of 49’s at SIS. “The 49’s live draws have an extraordinary heritage and a passionate, global fanbase, so the decision to license our IP was not one we took lightly. Gaming Realms’ track record with Slingo gave us every confidence that this was the right partnership to make that step. Slingo is the ideal vehicle to introduce 49’s to a new player vertical, while keeping the authenticity that existing fans love at the heart of the experience.”

Asia-Pacific casinos face softer demand and rising cost pressures: S&P

Viviana Chan
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Asia-Pacific casinos face softer demand and rising cost pressures: S&P

Asia-Pacific casino operators face moderating demand and rising cost pressures over the next 12 months, as macroeconomic uncertainty, higher oil prices, regulatory controls and capital spending weigh on sector earnings, according to S&P Global Ratings.

In its July 1st Asia-Pacific Sector Roundup Q3 2026 report, S&P gaming analyst Flora Chang described the regional gaming sector as facing ‘moderate demand amid macro challenges’.

S&P said Macau’s gross gaming revenue growth is likely to moderate in the coming quarters because of softer demand and a higher comparison base. However, the agency said growth should remain at 5 percent to 7 percent, supported by good visitation and steady premium mass demand.

The report also warned that high oil prices could soften travel demand if consumers cut discretionary leisure spending. S&P said demand from price-sensitive base mass players would be more affected than premium mass or VIP demand.

Gaming revenue in Singapore and Malaysia should edge higher, supported by stronger visitation, asset upgrades and the Visit Malaysia campaign. In the Philippines, supportive visa policies and a recovery in online gambling could support a return to GGR growth.

However, casino GGR in Australia and New Zealand is likely to remain constrained by regulatory requirements. The agency said mandatory carded play, cash limits and higher anti-money laundering compliance spending would weigh on gaming revenue and margins in both markets.

Cost pressures are also expected to rise. S&P said higher marketing and operating expenses, as operators compete for market share, could intensify competition for premium mass gaming revenue in Macau. Rising energy costs may also reduce cash flows in markets with energy-saving mandates, including the Philippines and Korea.

Capital expenditure is another risk. S&P said projects in Japan, the United Arab Emirates and New York are likely to drive spending by operators including MGM, Wynn and Genting Bhd in 2026.

King Is Back: Conor McGregor is new 1xBet Global ambassador

AGBrief Editorial
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King Is Back: Conor McGregor is new 1xBet Global ambassador

Some names change the game. Conor McGregor is one of them. 1xBet announces a partnership with the UFC’s first-ever double-champion, a global sports superstar, and the man who forever transformed the world of mixed martial arts.

Not just a fighter. Not just a champion. McGregor is a phenomenon who helped turn the UFC from a niche sport into a global spectacle – driving record-breaking PPV sales, attracting worldwide media attention, and engaging millions of fans. Every time the Irishman steps into the octagon, it becomes an international event.

The 1xPartners affiliate program is getting a major boost. The legendary Notorious is now a long-term part of the 1xBet.

This partnership carries special importance ahead of UFC 329, which takes place on July 11. The main event will feature a rematch between Conor McGregor and Max Holloway, 13 years after their first meeting. Their 2013 bout marked a turning point in both fighters’ careers, and the upcoming clash is already being described as the most anticipated MMA event in recent years.

For 1xBet, partnering with one of the world’s most recognizable athletes creates new ways to reach a global audience, strengthens the brand’s international presence, and gives 1xPartners affiliates additional opportunities to scale sports traffic. Our affiliate program offers competitive monetization terms, including up to 50% RevShare, regular payouts, and a comprehensive suite of modern tools. This helps to consistently deliver strong conversion and engagement rates worldwide.

For 1xPartners affiliates, this is a chance to become part of a large-scale project, leverage one of the most recognizable athletes’ incredible media influence, work with the hottest traffic from the biggest UFC events, and continue growing with 1xBet. 

Join the 1xPartners affiliate program and become part of a story that’s just beginning.

This campaign is promoted by 1xBet l and is intended only for users in jurisdictions where the relevant services are legally available. 21+ only. Please gamble responsibly.

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