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Daily Asia Gaming eBrief: Macau CE vows to protect US-backed operators

AGBrief Editorial
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Daily Asia Gaming eBrief: Macau CE vows to protect US-backed operators
Good Morning. Money talks. In the case of Macau, the massive reliance of the government on taxes from gaming means that it’s highly in its interests to protect its continued operations, even those with US ties. And the SAR’s top official has pledged to do just that in the ongoing China-US trade spat, albeit highlighting a need for diversification. This is particularly important given the strong drop in gaming revenue after Golden Week, larger than normal after the holiday. And in the online world, the Isle of Man loses another gambling licensee, as SBObet turns away from the jurisdiction.

What you need to know

On the radar

AGB Intelligence

MACAU

Macau, Cotai strip

Chief Executive vows to protect US-backed gaming firms

In his first focused comments on the issue, Macau’s Chief Executive has pledged to protect foreign investments in the city, including those by US gaming operators, even as the tariff spat between China and the United States undergoes a temporary reprieve. The official, however, did push for diversification away from gaming, even as the city’s visitors are trending towards spending less, but arriving in higher numbers.

Corporate Spotlight

Bettorify bridges European operators to Asia’s gaming markets

Beyond Ordinary Platforms: Bettorify bridges European operators to Asia's gaming markets

With over 30% of global gaming revenue projected to come from Asia soon, the window of opportunity is wide open. Bettorify’s white-label and turnkey solutions deliver what most platforms miss: sharp execution backed by real local expertise.

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Slotegrator unveils ultimate guide for iGaming growth in 2025

AGBrief Editorial
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Slotegrator unveils ultimate guide for iGaming growth in 2025

The iGaming industry in 2025 is advancing at an unprecedented pace, presenting both remarkable opportunities and heightened competition. In this dynamic landscape, mastering effective player engagement is not just beneficial—it is essential for the sustained success of any online casino or betting platform.

First of all, affiliate marketing will remain the most powerful channel for driving quality traffic in 2025, if you approach it strategically. Focus on building a network of true ambassadors for your brand: carefully select partners with relevant audiences, offer them transparent and favorable terms, and provide them with regular, effective promotional materials. Remember, a motivated affiliate is your most productive advertising engine.

In addition, players in 2025 value not only generosity, but also a smart and personalized approach to bonuses. Develop a flexible rewards policy with clear and straightforward terms and conditions, segment your audience to create customized offers — from welcome packages to loyalty programs — and don’t forget about creative promotions tied to current events to keep interest and excitement high.

With the dominance of mobile traffic, a seamless user experience on smartphones and tablets is an absolute necessity in 2025. Your website and all of your games should be perfectly tailored to provide lightning-fast loading, intuitive navigation, and the ultimate in financial transactions. Consider PWAs, native apps or even innovative solutions such as Telegram сasino to offer players the best and most affordable mobile solution to suit their habits.

Furthermore, it is important to note that the future of direct mail lies in personalized campaigns that are data-driven. Employ modern CRM systems and analytics tools to collect and analyze player behavior and preferences. This will allow you to create highly targeted offers that will not only attract attention, but also significantly increase conversion rates and long-term loyalty.

The technological platform is the foundation of any successful iGaming project in 2025. Players expect not only a variety of content, but also flawless, stable, and secure operation of the service. Investing in quality software that ensures fast game loading, data protection, a wide range of payment systems, and advanced management tools is a direct contribution to attracting and retaining users and building trust in your brand.

Yana Khaidukova, Managing Director of Slotegrator, observed: “By 2025, the leading companies in the iGaming sector will be those who not only follow trends, but also influence them by leveraging a profound understanding of their audience and implementing advanced technological solutions. Successful player engagement is a synergy of smart marketing and flawless, high-quality software that instills confidence and enjoyment in gambling.”

Barb Tasci, Co-founder and Business Director of Revpanda, added: “User acquisition has become more expensive than ever. With markets getting more crowded, regulations tightening, and new brands launching almost daily, standing out is no longer as simple as it used to be.”

“Relying only on traditional channels like SEO and affiliate PPC just isn’t enough anymore. Algorithms change constantly, and the competition is intense. What we see working now—and what will work even more in 2025—is a shift toward strong branding and long-term marketing strategies. Brands that play the long game with a clear identity and consistent message are the ones getting ahead.”

“I believe operators should focus on building their own traffic through smarter, more modern methods like Programmatic Advertising and brand awareness campaigns. Affiliate traffic can still play a role—especially for quick wins—but it should support your brand, not carry it. The real impact comes when you retain those players with solid community engagement and CRM efforts.”

“At the end of the day, it’s about trust, consistency, and showing up with a strategy that looks beyond the next deposit.”

Aristocrat sees revenue increases across all segments, profit tops $474M in fiscal half year

Kelsey Wilhelm
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Aristocrat sees revenue increases across all segments, profit tops $474M in fiscal half year

Aristocrat has announced a 5.6 percent increase in profit for the first financial half year (ending March 31st), totaling AU$732.6 million ($474.36 million), bolstered by strong North American sales.

According to the group’s most recent financials, the company booked an 8.7 percent increase in revenue, to AU$3.03 billion ($1.96 billion).

The group attributed the increases to ‘the Group’s breadth and high-quality portfolio of scaled, world-class gaming assets, ongoing effective execution of our growth strategy and leading organic investment in talent, technology and product’.

Strong results were seen across all segments, with revenue from its Gaming segment rising by 2.4 percent to nearly AU$1.87 billion ($1.21 billion), bringing profit from the segment up to AU$1.03 billion ($666.92 million) – a 3 percent annual rise.

This amounted to some 62 percent of the group’s overall revenue and 68 percent of profit, ‘reflecting the expansion of the installed base footprint by around 2,500 net additional units with approximately 6,400 net unit growth over the 12 months’.

Profit from the Gaming segment was driven by an AU$60 million ($38.85 million) increase in North America, despite Rest of World being down by AU$36 million ($23.21 million) – partially attributed to expectations of the launch of the new Baron cabinet in the second half of the year.

North America revenue totaled AU$963.8 million ($627 million), up by 1.4 percent yearly, while profit rose to AU$560 million ($362.6 million), up by 3.8 percent. The group currently holds 42 percent market share in North America.

Rest of World revenue amounted to AU$341.2 million ($220.9 million), down by 9.4 percent yearly, with profit from the segment slipping nearly 20 percent, to AU$143.7 million ($93 million).

In Asia, revenue grew by 2.5 percent, ‘driven by a favorable product mix and strong game performance, that more than offset the impact of lower volumes’.

Social Casino Product-Madness, by Aristocrat

Looking to its social casino business Product Madness, revenue was up by 1.5 percent yearly, to nearly $570 million, with profit rising by 9.4 percent to $244.3 million, as the group’s social casino franchises outperformed the market. Product Madness ranked #1 in the overall social casino slot market, with 21 percent market share.

Aristocrat Interactive, Aristocrat Leisure, Real Money Gaming

Regarding the group’s online Real Money Gaming (RMG) business, Aristocrat Interactive, revenue was up by 200.8 percent yearly, to $216.3 million, while segment profit skyrocketed by nearly 260 percent, to $71.9 million.

The group’s segment offerings encompass iLottery, iGaming, Online Sports Betting and Customer Experience Solutions.

Speaking of the results, Trevor Croker, CEO and Managing Director of the company, noted that “This was a positive result, illustrating the quality of Aristocrat’s portfolio and ability to grow through different operating environments while also investing for the future.”.

“I am excited that we now have three focused and fully complimentary business lines, united by a common core of great gaming content and each offering exciting growth prospects.”

The executive furthered that the company continues “to actively pursue strategic M&A opportunities, in a disciplined and consistent manner.”

The executive is expecting “an acceleration in operating momentum in the second half of the year as we capitalize on product rollout and technology initiatives across our portfolio”.

The group anticipates continued growth in profit (NPATA) for the full year ending September 30th, with continued market share gains from its Gaming segment, ‘disciplined execution in Product Madness’ and ‘accelerating performance at Aristocrat Interactive’.

IGT results drop in 1Q25 but are “in line with expectations”, as company focuses on lottery segment

Kelsey Wilhelm
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IGT results drop in 1Q25 but are “in line with expectations”, as company focuses on lottery segment

International Game Technology (IGT) says that its first quarter results were “In line with expectations”, with revenue falling by 12 percent yearly to $583 million as it focuses on its lottery business.

The group did not include results from its Gaming & Digital business, as it’s set to be acquired by funds managed by Apollo Management, expected to close by the third quarter of this year.

Income from continuing operations totaled just $8 million, down by 93 percent yearly, while adjusted EBITDA shrank to $250 million, from $327 million in the previous year.

Speaking of the results, Vince Sadusky, CEO of IGT noted that “Global sales of instant ticket and draw games continue to expand, driven by a steady pipeline of game innovation and portfolio optimization strategies”.

“While the world is currently faced with great uncertainty, we are excited about the initiatives we are working on to drive sustainable, long-term growth and shareholder value.”

The group notes that its EBITDA and lower operating income were influenced by the rebranding costs associated with separating its Lottery from its Gaming & Digital arm, alongside ‘incremental investments to drive sustainable long-term growth’. Higher jackpot flow-through in the US multi-state jackpots in the previous period also pushed down comparisons.

Looking ahead, for FY25, the group is now expecting revenue of approximately $2.55 billion and adjusted EBITDA of $1.1 billion, ‘given lower US multi-state jackpot activity and the current worsening macroeconomic environment’.

ZingBrain AI boosts CatAffs brands, driving revenue and KPI success

AGBrief Editorial
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ZingBrain AI boosts CatAffs brands, driving revenue and KPI success

CatAffs’ partners program has witnessed a remarkable surge in revenue and key performance indicators (KPIs) following the seamless integration of ZingBrain AI.

ZingBrain AI is the artificial intelligence engine for iGaming, which delivers personalised recommendations to create a fully bespoke experience for users. Since CatAffs integrated the ZingBrain AI platform, it has seen impressive results across the board.

This has included:

  • 17 percent increase in GGR per player, significantly increasing revenue;
  • 16 percent increase in turnover per player, driven by an increase in activity;
  • 11 percent increase in bets per player, boosting engagement;
  • 30 percent increase in deposits and sessions, improving retention;
  • 1 hour per session increase, meaning players are sticking around for longer.

Oleg Smolerov, CPO at ZingBrain AI, said: “We couldn’t be happier to see CatAffs already enjoying improved performance via our platform. This kind of success shows how AI isn’t just a buzzword, but rather something that can significantly improve business performance. We’ll continue to work closely with the CatAffs team to help their brands reach even greater heights.”

Oleksii, Head of Technical Product at CatAffs, added: “ZingBrain AI has very quickly become a key part of our growth strategy here at CatAffs, and the improvements in player engagement and revenue have already gone well beyond our expectations. But what we appreciate most is just how willing the ZingBrain AI team has been to adapt and innovate based on our needs. This is just the start of a great partnership.”

ZingBrain-AI

ZingBrain AI is redefining personalisation for iGaming operators, giving users the personal experience they’ve become used to when using YouTube, Spotify or Netflix. The insights are drawn from more than 15 billion transactions and 3.5 million users.

Agreegain granted GSC licence for software supply in the Isle of Man

AGBrief Editorial
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Agreegain granted GSC licence for software supply in the Isle of Man

Agreegain, a one-stop casino solution provider to the global iGaming industry, has achieved a significant milestone after receiving a software supplier licence from the Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC).

Regarded as a Tier One licence, the GSC gambling licence is recognised worldwide as a mark of credibility due to the rigorous standards that must be met.

The licensing process has been completed after a dedicated team effort from various departments and strengthens Agreegain’s ability to work with major suppliers to improve the products and services it can offer as a casino solution provider.

Agreegain aims to provide exceptional casino aggregation solutions by offering a wide selection of the best casino games from leading providers, supported by the technology and industry experience of parent company Altenar.

Maria Afzaal, Senior Partner Manager at Agreegain, said: “We are delighted to have received the GSC gambling licence and this is a big step forward as we establish Agreegain as a leading casino solution provider and trusted partner in the gaming industry. This recognition strengthens our commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable casino solutions that operators can depend on.” 

US-backed gaming operators will not be targeted amid China-US tensions: Macau gov’t 

Viviana Chan
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US-backed gaming operators will not be targeted amid China-US tensions: Macau gov’t 

Macau Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai has publicly confirmed that US-backed gaming companies operating in Macau will not face retaliatory measures, despite growing geopolitical tensions between China and the United States.

The statement was made during a media briefing on Tuesday, following the conclusion of a six-day visit by Xia Baolong, director of the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office under China’s Central Government. In response to a journalist’s question about whether Macau might punish US firms due to the intensifying bilateral conflict, Sam stated that foreign investment remains a core part of Macau’s economic strategy and will continue to be protected.

“Foreign investments are highly welcomed in the Macau SAR,” he said. “This is also one of the goals outlined in my recent Policy Address. According to the law, and as long as they comply with local regulations, all foreign investments will be protected and supported.”

The Chief Executive’s comments mark the first time the Macau government has addressed this issue directly, amid heightened investor concerns about the long-term outlook for American firms in the region. Three US-backed casino operators hold 10-year concessions in Macau (Sands China, MGM Macau, Wynn Macau), making the SAR’s regulatory stance critical for their operations.

gaming

At the same briefing, Sam summarized Xia Baolong’s visit, highlighting Macau’s continued reliance on gaming revenue, which accounts for over 80 percent of government tax income. While recognizing the importance of the gaming industry, he acknowledged the pressing need for economic diversification.

“There are real difficulties in shifting our revenue base away from gaming,” he said. “But Macau’s commercial sector has always been aligned with national interests. We must adopt a ‘united front’ mindset to reduce dependency on gaming and explore new paths for growth.”

Reflecting on earlier comments made during the US-China trade dispute, Sam said that previous concerns about indirect impacts on Macau’s economy had now materialized more clearly. “The impact is already here. We have more tourists, but spending is down,” he noted.

gaming

According to the top official, the consumption patterns and profile of tourists visiting Macau have shifted significantly, prompting the government to adjust its strategic approach. He noted that tourists today, particularly younger generations, are spending less and seeking different types of experiences than in the past. Sam also pointed out that Xia Baolong had been briefed on the rising popularity of so-called “military-style tours” — a travel trend gaining traction among younger visitors.

These tours are characterized by tightly scheduled, fast-paced itineraries with early departures, multiple stops in a single day, and minimal leisure time. While cost-effective and efficient, this style of travel tends to generate lower per-capita spending, posing challenges for sectors such as retail and hospitality that traditionally rely on higher-spending tourists.

To address these trends, the Chief Executive announced new initiatives to promote Macau abroad. “The SAR government will join with the local business community to promote Macau’s tourism and gaming sectors in Portuguese-speaking countries, Spain, and Southeast Asia,” he stated. The campaign also aims to enhance the competitiveness of local SMEs in adapting to new market conditions.

“These measures will help implement concrete solutions, improve governance efficiency, and support Macau’s businesses in exploring overseas markets and new development paths,” he said.

SBObet surrenders Isle of Man online gambling license

Frank Schuengel
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SBObet surrenders Isle of Man online gambling license

Celton Manx, the license holding entity for SBObet and various of its online presences, has surrendered its Isle of Man online gambling license.

The move took place on the 9th of May and the company is no longer listed in the register of licensees maintained by the island’s regulator, the Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC). Instead, its name is now placed on the register of previous licensees also maintained by the GSC. No official reason or statement has been given by Celton Manx or the GSC yet. The company’s LinkedIn profile still indicates it as being registered on the island.

Celton manx License Surrender
Celton Manx is now listed as having surrendered its Isle of Man GSC license

The prominent firm is the latest big name to hand back its Isle of Man license in a recent seismic shift for the industry on the small British Crown Dependency. Not too long ago, 188BET, another Asian gaming giant that had called the Isle of Man home for many years, also surrendered its license and moved operations back to Asia. 188BET has since acquired an Anjouan license to replace its Isle of Man one but there is no confirmed information at this time if Celton Manx – the name behind SBObet, SBOtop and others – will do the same.

At the time of publication, the websites previously listed under the company’s OGRA Network License, including SBObet.com, SBOtop.com, SBObeteu.com and others, are no longer showing the Isle of Man gambling license seal, a legal requirement for companies licensed on the island. In fact, the sites do not appear to show any gambling licensing information, a point that may prove controversial as most online entities tied to the firm are still listing it as principal partner of Fulham Football Club.

gaming
The company’s websites no longer show the Isle of Man crest

SBObet was one of the early online gambling licensing pioneers on the Isle of Man and its operating company, Celton Manx, has been an active supporter of many charitable organizations and community events over the years.

It is uncertain at this time if the company is planning to leave the island entirely or will remain based in the jurisdiction, where it owns its own office building on the outskirts of Douglas, the capital city of the Isle of Man.

Celton Manx did also operate a live casino facility from its headquarter, but it is understood that this may have been closed some time ago due to staffing issues.

gaming
The company’s LinkedIn page still indicates it as being Isle of Man licensed

The move will come as a further shock to an island that has seen its eGaming industry, an important sector responsible for around a quarter of its economy, being rocked by negative headlines in recent times. The biggest story was no doubt the King Gaming scandal, but since then, numerous additional criminal investigations, police raids, and enforcement actions by the gambling regulator have taken place. All of this marks a significant change in the island’s attitude towards online gambling and companies from Asia in particular. How the license surrender of this latest big name will affect the island and its reputation in the industry remains to be seen.

Macau International Airport expansion project commences construction

Viviana Chan
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Macau International Airport expansion project commences construction

The expansion project at Macau International Airport (MIA) has been kicked off. The undertaking aims to increase the airport’s capacity and operational capabilities, targeting 15 million annual passengers.

gaming
Ma Iao Hang, chairman of the board of directors of Macau International Airport Company Limited (CAM)

According to a press release published on Monday (May 12th), Ma Iao Hang, chairman of the board of directors of Macau International Airport Company Limited (CAM), attended the May 7th groundbreaking ceremony alongside CAM’s executive committee, department directors, and members of the expansion and reclamation working group.

Representatives from the project contractors were also present. Key stakeholders from project management, supervision, quality control, and quantity surveying units participated in the event.

Following preparatory work, on-site construction for Phase I of the expansion has now begun. The contract for this phase has a projected duration of 1,977 calendar days, with an anticipated completion date by the end of 2030.

CAM anticipates that upon completion, the total usable area of Macau International Airport will reach 325 hectares, and its annual passenger throughput will double, increasing from 7.7 million passengers in 2024 to 15 million passengers.

In the first quarter of 2025, the Macau International Airport handled some 13,621 commercial flights, up by 2.4 percent yearly. Visitor arrivals during the period totaled 743,014, making up 7.5 percent of total arrivals to Macau in 1Q25, up by 0.9 percent yearly.

According to the airport authority, total passenger figures for the first quarter amounted to over 1.83 million. In 2024, total passengers amounted to 7.64 million.

SBC Summit Americas 2025

AGBrief Editorial
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SBC Summit Americas 2025

SBC Summit Americas will bring together more than 8,000 industry professionals and host 300 exhibitors and sponsors, setting the stage for unparalleled networking, knowledge exchange, and growth opportunities across the casino (online and land-based) and sports betting sectors in North, South, and Central America.

As the premier gathering for the Americas, this event delves deep into pivotal topics shaping the industry’s trajectory. From deciphering intricate market regulations to spearheading product innovation, fostering vital connections among operators and stakeholders, safeguarding sports integrity and data rights, exploring the dynamic realms of cryptocurrency, AI, and cybersecurity, and seizing the expansive opportunities in sports licensing.

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