MGM partners with Thailand EM District to enhance Macau’s MICE tourism market

Macau

AGBrief Editorial

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February 25, 2025

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MGM partners with Thailand EM District to enhance Macau’s MICE tourism market

MGM has joined forces with Thailand’s top retail developer, EM District, to host a familiarization trip for 45 prominent Thai business leaders and industry professionals from February 21-23, 2025, in a strategic effort to boost Macau’s international MICE tourism market.

The delegation is composed of high-profile figures from financial services, banking, real estate development, hospitality management, and entertainment sectors. The familiarization trip represents a significant milestone in MGM’s ongoing efforts to enhance Macau as a premier international tourism and MICE destination, particularly within the lucrative Southeast Asian market.

This initiative builds upon MGM’s recent collaboration with EM District, launched in January through the “EMDISTRICT THE GOLDEN PROSPEROUS KINGDOM CHINESE NEW YEAR 2025” campaign. The partnership between MGM and EM District—operator of prestigious retail destinations Emporium, Emquartier, and Emsphere—offers exclusive MGM Macau travel experiences to top spenders at their shopping complexes, fostering stronger connections between Macau and Thailand.

This collaboration enabled MGM to expand its brand awareness in Thailand by showcasing Macau 2049, its groundbreaking residency show, on key advertising platforms including digital billboards and high-traffic transit areas. This exposure introduced Thai audiences to Macau’s best-in-class entertainment offerings, further elevating its appeal as a travel destination.

A highlight of the program was the Gala Dinner at MGM COTAI’s Vista on February 21^st. The event welcomed distinguished guests including (pictured below):

Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, Director of Macao Government Tourism Office;
Vincent U, President of Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute;
Vic Lam, Chief of the Division of Tourism, MICE and Commerce of Economic Development Bureau of Guangdong-Macao In-depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin;
Suthavadee Sirithanachai, Vice President – Marketing of EM District;
Kevin Wang, Assistant to Vice President, Commercial cum Regional General Manager – Greater Bay Area of Air Macau Company Limited;
Iwan Dietschi, Senior Vice President of Hospitality of MGM;
Irene Wong, Senior Vice President of Public & Community Relations of MGM;
Cindy Lui, Assistant Vice President of Resort Sales of MGM.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Iwan Dietschi emphasized the growing significance of the Thai market at MGM: “Thailand has emerged as MGM’s largest source of visitors from Southeast Asia, with a 15% growth last year. Our recent collaboration with EM District exemplifies our commitment to creating unique and luxury experiences that bridge our two cultures.”

Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes also said: “I am enthusiastic to see MGM creating synergies with Thailand’s top-tier shopping complexes and partners to reach out to Thai travelers. An important part of the development of Macao to reinforce its positioning as a world center of tourism and leisure is the expansion of international visitor source markets, and Thailand is one of the markets we hugely value.”

Vincent U added: “We see strong potential to collaborate with Thai businesses, combining strengths to drive mutual growth and innovation. ASEAN, including Thailand, has always been a close trading partner of our territory. We sincerely welcome our Thai friends to explore, connect, and uncover the endless opportunities Macao has to offer.”

MGM Grand Macau, MGM China — _{MGM Macau peninsula}

MGM Cotai, MGM China, Macau — _{MGM Macau peninsula}

The carefully curated program showcases the perfect blend of luxury, entertainment, and cultural experiences at both MGM MACAU and MGM COTAI, while introducing the delegation to Macau’s rich cultural heritage and diverse tourism offerings. This initiative reinforces MGM’s dedication to attracting international visitors and diversifying Macau’s tourism economy.

Ivan Kravchuk, CEO at Evoplay, said: “With Tree of Light: Fabled Fruits, we’ve built on the success of the first title in the series by introducing even more engaging features that enhance both excitement and rewards. The Hold & Win mechanic, combined with multiple jackpots and flexible bonus options, ensure an immersive experience that appeals to a wide range of players worldwide, especially fans of the fantasy genre.”

The series sparks into life with Ramses Book Flaming Link, with more scorching titles on the horizon, including Crystal Ball Flaming Link, Roman Legion Flaming Link, and Fancy Fruits Flaming Link—these are just the beginning. Flaming Link will turn up the dial on a range of GAMOMAT’s most iconic games, with additional titles already in development.

Flaming Link delivers pure entertainment with a straightforward yet high-energy feature. The excitement rises as Fire Orbs unlock the Flaming Link mechanic, while random Multiplier Zones boost wins up to 12,100x the total bet. With no additional bets required and the feature always enabled, Flaming Link offers an engaging and accessible experience for all player types.

The first title, Ramses Book Flaming Link, breathes fire into a legendary classic. With its Ancient Egyptian setting, familiar mechanics, and now the power of Flaming Link, it takes players on an adventure filled with pharaohs, pyramids, and high-stakes returns. The game features five or ten paylines, Free Games, and the signature Book feature, making it a must-play for fans old and new.

Ramses Book Flaming Link will be available to all Bragg operator partners via the Bragg HUB and for social gaming via Whow.

GAMOMAT Distribution GmbH Managing Director Robert Kocher said: “Ramses Book is just the beginning of Flaming Link and we’ll be setting a whole host of epic classics on fire this year—we’re very excited.”

Speaking of the selection and membership growth, IGSA President Mark Pace noted that “The 2025 membership continues to expand, representing the breadth of the gaming industry. Our Board of Directors is similarly growing in diversity with supplier and operator members. Our continued focus on technology, partnering with other gaming organizations and working with regulatory authorities around the world for the benefit of the entire industry is a timely strategic direction”.

The IGSA this year welcomed Okada Manila operator Universal Entertainment as a new member and aims to further increase its membership beyond the 20 member-countries and 30 countries whose regulators, operators and suppliers provide input.

Speaking of new expectations for this year and beyond, IGSA Chair Nimish Purohit noted “Our committees are working on developing Standards and Best Practices in areas that are resonating with members and regulators alike. The participation in our Ethical AI, Cyber Resiliency and Payments committees has been incredible, and their output is already being discussed and used. I look forward to the output from a reinvigorated Responsible Gaming committee and the new Emerging Technology committee in 2025.”

MGM China seeks $2B loan amidst growth spurt: Report

Macau

Viviana Chan

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February 25, 2025

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MGM China seeks $2B loan amidst growth spurt: Report

Macau gaming operator MGM China is in discussions to secure a syndicated loan of approximately $2 billion, according to Bloomberg, citing sources familiar with the matter.

The report indicates that the gaming operator is negotiating with more than a dozen banks for a five-year facility denominated in Hong Kong dollars. If finalized, this would be the group’s first syndicated loan since the beginning of the pandemic, based on Bloomberg’s compiled data.

Sources added that the funds raised are expected to be used primarily for refinancing. However, MGM China remains in active discussions with lenders, and the terms of the deal could change.

An analyst from a top international investment bank, who prefers to remain anonymous, told AGB that the loan facility is unlikely to be used for expansion plans but rather for normal financial operations. He noted that in 2023, MGM extended the maturity date of some notes to mid-2026.

The analyst believes this move is in line with maintaining the company’s financial flexibility and refinancing its upcoming maturing notes.

This comes as MGM has been among the fastest-growing gaming operators in Macau in recent years. According to press releases dated February 13th, MGM China reported an all-time high market share of 15.8 percent in 2024, up from 15.2 percent in 2023 and a significant rise from 9.5 percent in 2019.

The company is reportedly considering upgrading its Macau casino resorts to attract a broader customer base beyond its traditional high-rollers. This strategic move aims to diversify its clientele and capitalize on the region’s post-pandemic recovery.

As AGB confirmed, MGM China’s most recent development, revealed in September of last year, was the conversion of MGM Macau junket areas into villas. This involved creating 28 villa units and turning 200 hotel rooms at its MGM Cotai property into 88 suites.

For FY24, MGM China’s total revenue grew by 27.2 percent to HK$31.4 billion ($3.92 billion), while adjusted EBITDA was up by 25.2 percent to HK$9.06 billion ($1.13 billion).

Since January 2024, the PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group (PNP-AKG) recorded 40 kidnapping cases, with 10 involving Chinese nationals who were reportedly abducted by their compatriots. These cases underscore the continued presence of criminal syndicates linked to POGO operations despite the official shutdown.

“These incidents highlight the continuing challenges posed by criminal syndicates operating in the aftermath of the POGO shutdown,” Marbil stated, according to The Philippine News Agency.

PNP Chief General Rommel Marbil, Philippines

The PNP is also investigating the disappearance of a Chinese national last seen on February 20th in Taguig City. Marbil assured the public of a “thorough investigation” and urged reliance on official reports, emphasizing the PNP’s commitment to “upholding the rule of law and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable.”

Ongoing raids and law enforcement actions

On February 20th, authorities raided a POGO facility in Parañaque City, leading to the arrest of 453 individuals, including 307 Filipinos and 137 Chinese nationals. The raid is part of a broader effort to dismantle underground POGO networks.

In Metro Manila, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-National Capital Region (CIDG-NCR) has formed a special tracker team to target remaining illegal POGO operations.

Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators, or POGOs, were first legalized in 2016 to boost government revenues. The industry attracted many Chinese workers, given its focus on online gambling targeting mainland China, where gambling is prohibited.

However, the sector became mired in controversy due to rising crime rates, including kidnappings, extortion, and human trafficking, predominantly involving Chinese nationals. In response, President Marcos Jr. ordered a total ban, citing national security concerns and growing public backlash.

The crackdown on POGO operations marks a significant shift in the Philippine government’s stance on offshore gaming, with heightened law enforcement measures from the PNP and other government bodies since the start of the year.

The cancellation was announced on February 16th, 2025, through a public notice, which confirmed the tender, first issued on January 27th, had been withdrawn without specifying a reason. This marked the first official disclosure of plans to establish a casino service counter at Colombo Airport, intended to provide travelers with an entertainment option.

While this airport project faces uncertainty, Sri Lanka’s casino industry is expanding. The country currently operates various casinos, including Bally’s, Bellagio, Casino Marina, Stardust, Continental Club, and The Ritz Club.

Another two major casino projects are underway in Colombo. The City of Dreams Sri Lanka, a $1 billion integrated resort by Melco Resorts & Entertainment and John Keells Holdings, is set to open its casino in 3Q25.

Additionally, Majestic Pride Casino, a partnership between Golden Island Hospitality and Majestic Group Hotels and Casinos, will open at Colombo Lotus Tower, further solidifying the city’s status as a regional gaming hub.

Ainsworth Game Technology reverses profit loss in 2024, despite drop in revenue

Kelsey Wilhelm

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February 25, 2025

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Ainsworth Game Technology reverses profit loss in 2024, despite drop in revenue

Australian gaming machine manufacturer Ainsworth Game Technology has reported a strong turnaround in profit after tax for 2024, reversing a AU$6.5 million ($6.12 million) loss into a AU$30.3 million ($19.2 million) gain for the year.

According to the group’s most recent financials, this came despite a 6.1 percent yearly drop in revenue for the Asia Pacific segment, which totaled AU$42.7 million ($27.05 million) – the group’s third-highest performing segment.

This resulted in a segment profit of AU$2.7 million ($1.7 million), down slightly by 0.7 percent.

The group noted that during the period, the decrease in revenue was ‘mainly driven by the lower sales unit volume within Asia and New Zealand regions due to competitive market conditions’.

Results in North America continued to lead in regards to segment, with AU$147 million ($93.12 million) in revenue, up by 6.6 percent yearly, leading to a 3.2 percent increase in the segment’s profit – at AU$68.2 million ($43.2 million).

The group’s Latin America & Europe segment saw revenue fall by 13.3 percent yearly, to AU$66.8 million ($42.32 million), with profit down by 5.6 percent to AU$27.5 million ($17.42 million).

The group’s Online Gaming segment also saw a downturn, with revenue falling by 8 percent yearly to AU$7.6 million ($4.8 million) and profit down by 7.1 percent to AU$6.9 million ($4.37 million).

Overall revenue for the year was down by 20.8 percent, to AU$264.1 million ($167.3 million), while reported EBITDA actually rose by 38.8 percent, to AU$58.9 million ($37.3 million).

No dividends were declared and paid by the company for the year.

MGM partners with Thailand EM District to enhance Macau’s MICE tourism market

MGM has joined forces with Thailand’s top retail developer, EM District, to host a familiarization trip for 45 prominent Thai business leaders and industry professionals from February 21-23, 2025, in a strategic effort to boost Macau’s international MICE tourism market.

A highlight of the program was the Gala Dinner at MGM COTAI’s Vista on February 21^st. The event welcomed distinguished guests including (pictured below):

Table of Contents

Evoplay enriches Fantasy Series with Tree of Light: Fabled Fruits

**Evoplay, the award-winning game development studio, has announced the launch of Tree of Light: Fabled Fruits, the newest title added to its popular Tree of Light series.**

Table of Contents

PAGCOR warns that fraudsters are impersonating its Chairman and President

The Philippine gaming regulator has warned the public that fraudsters are ‘impersonating its top executives to deceive individuals and businesses’.

GAMOMAT unveils Flaming Link series featuring Ramses Book edition

GAMOMAT, the renowned independent German slot game developer, has just unveiled its highly awaited Flaming Link series.

Table of Contents

International Gaming Standards Association elects 2025 Board of Directors

The International Gaming Standards Association (IGSA) has announced the election of its 2025 Board of Directors, following a restructuring in membership levels last year.

Philippine National Police intensifies crackdown on illegal POGOs

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil has vowed to intensify efforts against illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) activities, following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive for a total ban on the industry.

Ongoing raids and law enforcement actions

Table of Contents

Reef Casino Trust announces trade halt following ownership change speculation

Reef Corporate Services Limited, the entity responsible for the Reef Casino Trust (RCT) has requested an immediate halt to the trading of its securities due to ongoing speculation of a possible ownership change.

Sri Lanka cancels casino service counter tender at Colombo Airport

Sri Lanka’s Airport & Aviation Services has canceled the tender for a proposed casino service counter at Bandaranaike International Airport.

Ainsworth Game Technology reverses profit loss in 2024, despite drop in revenue

Australian gaming machine manufacturer Ainsworth Game Technology has reported a strong turnaround in profit after tax for 2024, reversing a AU$6.5 million ($6.12 million) loss into a AU$30.3 million ($19.2 million) gain for the year.

ENQUIRIES & SUBSCRIPTIONS

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FOLLOW AGB

MGM has joined forces with Thailand’s top retail developer, EM District, to host a familiarization trip for 45 prominent Thai business leaders and industry professionals from February 21-23, 2025, in a strategic effort to boost Macau’s international MICE tourism market.

A highlight of the program was the Gala Dinner at MGM COTAI’s Vista on February 21st. The event welcomed distinguished guests including (pictured below):

Table of Contents

Evoplay, the award-winning game development studio, has announced the launch of Tree of Light: Fabled Fruits, the newest title added to its popular Tree of Light series.

Table of Contents

The Philippine gaming regulator has warned the public that fraudsters are ‘impersonating its top executives to deceive individuals and businesses’.

GAMOMAT, the renowned independent German slot game developer, has just unveiled its highly awaited Flaming Link series.

Table of Contents

The International Gaming Standards Association (IGSA) has announced the election of its 2025 Board of Directors, following a restructuring in membership levels last year.

Macau gaming operator MGM China is in discussions to secure a syndicated loan of approximately $2 billion, according to Bloomberg, citing sources familiar with the matter.

Table of Contents

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil has vowed to intensify efforts against illegal Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) activities, following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive for a total ban on the industry.

Ongoing raids and law enforcement actions

Table of Contents

Reef Corporate Services Limited, the entity responsible for the Reef Casino Trust (RCT) has requested an immediate halt to the trading of its securities due to ongoing speculation of a possible ownership change.

Sri Lanka’s Airport & Aviation Services has canceled the tender for a proposed casino service counter at Bandaranaike International Airport.

Australian gaming machine manufacturer Ainsworth Game Technology has reported a strong turnaround in profit after tax for 2024, reversing a AU$6.5 million ($6.12 million) loss into a AU$30.3 million ($19.2 million) gain for the year.

ENQUIRIES & SUBSCRIPTIONS

CONTACTS

A highlight of the program was the Gala Dinner at MGM COTAI’s Vista on February 21^st. The event welcomed distinguished guests including (pictured below):

**Evoplay, the award-winning game development studio, has announced the launch of Tree of Light: Fabled Fruits, the newest title added to its popular Tree of Light series.**