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Daily Asia Gaming eBrief: The Star reaches deal for debt package

AGBrief Editorial
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Daily Asia Gaming eBrief: The Star reaches deal for debt package
Good morning. Saved by the bell. The Star Entertainment Group has announced a one-day postponement of its annual results following the acquisition of an essential AU$200 million ($136 million) debt relief package. The agreement follows extensive negotiations between Star’s chief executive, its lenders, and various state authorities over several weeks. Also in Australia, opponents of a proposed ban on gambling advertisements are advocating for age verification methods to prevent minors from accessing sports betting content. As for Macau, tourism authorities are expecting over 100,000 daily visitors during the October Golden Week, as hotel bookings and occupancy rates surge.

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The Star Entertainment, Sydney Australia

The Star delays annual results after debt package announcement

Australian gaming operator The Star Entertainment Group has announced a one-day delay in releasing its annual results due to securing a crucial AU$200 million ($136 million) debt package aimed at tackling its ongoing financial difficulties. This new funding will decrease its current AU$450 million ($306 million) credit line to AU$334 million ($227 million), enhancing its cash flow management.

Corporate Spotlight

Altenar brings premium sportsbook solution to Asia

Altenar brings premium sportsbook solution to Asia

Altenar, a leading sportsbook provider is bringing its global expertise to Asia, looking to expand its operations. Since 2011, Altenar has powered hundreds of online sports betting sites worldwide and is a major B2B provider in Europe and Latin America licensed markets.

1xBet, The most popular gambling games and slots in Asia

For global betting company 1xBet, Asia is a key market for several reasons. This is why 1xBet pays special attention to the Asian market and actively promotes its sports betting platform and the most popular gambling games on the continent.

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Philippines start profiling thousands of POGO workers set to lose jobs

Frank Schuengel
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Philippines start profiling thousands of POGO workers set to lose jobs

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in the Philippines has initiated the process of profiling workers from Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) who will be affected by the government’s decision to halt all POGO operations by the end of this year, as mandated by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.

Patrick Patriwirawan Jr., director of DOLE’s Bureau of Local Employment, stated that 27,747 out of the estimated 40,692 Filipino workers employed in the POGO industry have already been profiled, based on figures from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR).

DOLE, Department of Labor and Employment, Philippines

According to the latest data, 19,754 workers have been profiled in Metro Manila, 142 in Region III (Central Luzon), 7,387 in Calabarzon, and 14 in Region VII (Central Visayas). The average monthly income of these workers reportedly ranges from PHP16,000 ($280) to PHP 22,000 ($400).

Patriwirawan outlined DOLE’s strategy during a Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon briefing on Wednesday, explaining that the department follows a specific framework when labor market disruptions occur. “As soon as we detect such disruptions, we start profiling the affected workers,” he said.

He further noted that once the profiling is complete, DOLE offers various services to the displaced workers, facilitated through their public employment service offices across the country.

Philippines expected to exit FATF grey list soon

Frank Schuengel
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Philippines expected to exit FATF grey list soon

The Philippines is on track to exit the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list, which monitors jurisdictions under increased scrutiny, a Department of Justice (DOJ) official announced.

DOJ Undersecretary Jesse Hermogenes Andres expressed confidence during Tuesday’s briefing at the 2024 National Committee on Intellectual Property Rights High-Level Meeting in Manila. “We are very confident that when the FATF grey list matter is taken up this October, the Philippines will likely be removed from the grey list due to our performance in various areas, including intellectual property rights protection,” Andres said.

DOJ Undersecretary Jesse Hermogenes Andres
Jesse Hermogenes Andres, DOJ Undersecretary

The FATF, an international watchdog for money laundering and terrorist financing, placed the Philippines on its grey list nearly five years ago. To be delisted, the country was required to meet 18 committed outcomes. “We have already completed 15 of those 18 items, and we submitted our final report a month ago. We expect the FATF to make its decision in October,” Andres explained.

The remaining three areas of concern have also been addressed, according to Andres. The FATF has previously acknowledged the Philippines’ significant progress in enhancing its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) systems.

However, the organization emphasized that the country must continue working on three strategic priorities: ensuring AML/CTF controls are applied to casino junkets, implementing cross-border currency controls at all major ports, and increasing prosecutions for terrorism financing in line with risk.

With these areas now addressed, the Philippines is hopeful for a positive outcome when the FATF reviews its progress in October.

Clark Aviation Capital officially launched in the Philippines

Frank Schuengel
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Clark Aviation Capital officially launched in the Philippines

The government-owned land surrounding Clark International Airport has been officially named the Clark Aviation Capital of the Philippines.

This aviation-centric business hub is set to become the country’s new center for aviation, logistics, and sustainable urban development.

On Monday, Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) president Arrey Perez led the formal launch during a general assembly attended by Department of Transportation (DOTr) Undersecretary for Aviation Roberto Lim, Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) Vice President Kenneth Peralta, and Dr. John Ortiz Teope, representing BCDA chair Thompson Lantion.

“Clark makes one’s dream work,” Perez said during the event. “The airport is at the heart of Clark, connecting the country to the world. But beyond this airport lies an aviation-centered metropolis that will take this dream and make it fly.”

Clark-International-Airport,Philippines
Clark International Airport, Philippines
Clark-International-Airport-New-terminal_Philippines
Clark International Airport terminal, Philippines

As a BCDA subsidiary, CIAC oversees Clark International Airport’s operations and the surrounding land development. The new Clark Aviation Capital will span 2,367 hectares of prime land ready for both local and foreign investments.

Perez described the vision for the aviation capital as a dynamic ecosystem integrating aviation, logistics, commerce, and sustainable urban development, all contributing to national economic growth. The aim is to turn these previously idle lands into a global hub for innovation, investment, and infrastructure.

CIAC is keen to attract partners for various ventures, including cargo and logistics services, infrastructure projects, and the sustainable development of heritage parks to boost tourism. Key to this plan are the “Seven Flagship Projects,” which include the Clark National Food Hub, a World Events and Entertainment Center, and the Urban Renewal and Heritage Conservation program.

Banyan Tree enters the Philippines with Hann Reserve Resort in New Clark City

Other major initiatives in the pipeline are the Direct Access Road Link to Clark Airport, the upgrading of road networks, a detailed site development plan for a second runway, and the construction of the Clark Aviation Capital headquarters.

Since September last year, CIAC has actively promoted these flagship projects, particularly the Clark National Food Hub, which recently gained approval from the House of Representatives’ Committee on Trade and Industry. These projects aim to significantly contribute to the nation’s economy by transforming Clark into a premier aviation and business hub.

The Star secures crucial $136M debt package ahead of annual results

Nelson Moura
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The Star secures crucial $136M debt package ahead of annual results

Australian gaming operator The Star Entertainment Group, facing significant challenges, announced that it will postpone the release of its annual results by one day after securing an essential AU$200 million ($136 million) debt package.

This financial lifeline comes in the form of a new facility worth up to AU$200 million ($136 million) from its corporate lenders, which will help the casino group navigate ongoing financial difficulties.

The existing AU$450 million ($306 million) facility will be reduced to AU$334 million ($227 million), allowing the company to better manage its cash flow. The AU$200 million ($136 million) financing will be distributed in two phases, with an immediate AU$100 million ($68 million) allocated to address rising costs associated with the development of its new Queens Wharf resort in Brisbane.

Queen's Wharf Brisbane, The Star Entertainment
The Star Brisbane, Queen's Wharf Brisbane
Queen’s Wharf Brisbane, Star Entertainment

This agreement follows extensive negotiations between Star’s chief executive, its lenders, and various state authorities over several weeks. The first tranche of funding is anticipated to be available from late October through December 20, contingent upon certain conditions being met.

The second tranche will impose stricter requirements on Star, including the need to raise at least AU$150 million ($102 million) in additional capital and to provide detailed insights into its long-term strategy.

Star’s operational future remains uncertain following an inquiry that revealed issues related to its leadership and corporate culture, deeming it unfit to run its Sydney casino.

The company, which operates casinos in Sydney, Brisbane, and the Gold Coast, saw its shares suspended from trading on September 2 after failing to submit its fiscal 2024 annual report on time.

Aristocrat Gaming unveils blazing new game: Phoenix Link

AGBrief Editorial
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Aristocrat Gaming unveils blazing new game: Phoenix Link

Aristocrat Gaming is raising the stakes with the launch of Phoenix Link™, the latest evolution in one of their most iconic game series.

This all-new slot game is the perfect complement to the international hit game, Dragon Link™ and brings with it new twists and turns that provide players with more features, more entertainment and more ways to win.

Phoenix Link rises on the Neptune™ Single cabinet and will make its premiere in the Aristocrat Gaming booth at the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) in Las Vegas this October. The game will first hit casino floors in North America.

Dragon Link, Aristocrat Gaming

“Phoenix Link and Dragon Link are the ‘Yin’ and ‘Yang’ to each other. While they come from the same family, the Phoenix has its own, fiery personality that brings together game features we know players love, and some new ones we’re excited for them to discover,” said Victor Duarte, EVP of Gaming Product for Aristocrat Gaming. “This game is brought to life in a way that only Aristocrat Gaming can, with industry-leading game design, mathematics, art, sound, and software functionality.”

Phoenix Link players will enjoy the game’s additional denominations, configurations, and jackpots on each of the launch game theme titles. All four games share two exciting features, the first is Hold & Spin, where classic Hold & Spin gameplay meets the chance for multiple bonus prizes or Major Jackpots on a single symbol.

The second is the Phoenix Mystery feature, where all Phoenix symbols landed increment towards a counter with a chance to trigger a free Hold & Spin. The ultimate prize of a Grand progressive scales with higher denominations.
 
When it comes to exciting Free Games, two game themes feature twin spins for chances at great line wins and increased chances to win the Hold & Spin. Additionally, the remaining two game themes feature wild 2x multipliers for chances at dynamic line wins.

Delta Corp announces demerger plan aiming to enhance gaming business

Viviana Chan
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Delta Corp announces demerger plan aiming to enhance gaming business

Indian casino operator Delta Corp Ltd has announced a strategic move to separate its gaming business from its hospitality and real estate divisions.

This decision aims to enhance operational focus on its core gaming activities, allowing for more efficient management and development. According to the company’s Tuesday filing, this reorganization is “considered desirable and expedient to segregate its gaming business from the hospitality and real estate vertical.”

The demerger will create two distinct publicly listed entities: one dedicated to hospitality and real estate and the other continuing the gaming operations. Delta Corp believes this structure will “ensure transparency, accountability, [and] the highest standards of corporate governance.”

Delta Corp
Deltin Royale Casino, Asia’s largest offshore gaming vessel

The hospitality division includes notable properties such as Deltin Suites in Goa and The Deltin, Daman, while the gaming arm will maintain its focus on casino operations. The company reassured stakeholders that this transition will not adversely affect employees, customers, or business partners, stating, “the Scheme will have no impact on employees, customers, and our business partners.”

Shares of Delta Corp have recorded a nearly two-digit increase in Wednesday’s trade following the demerger plan announcement.

As reported by AGB, Delta Corp has seen a steep decline in revenue and net profits during the second quarter of this year compared to the same period last year, primarily driven by a slowdown in gaming operations. 

Total revenue reached Rs1.81 billion ($21.55 million) in the second quarter of 2024, down by 30.3 percent from Rs2.59 billion ($30.92 million) in the same period last year, again primarily due to a slowdown in gaming operations.

Hub88 launches HubConnect, a new tool for suppliers and operators

AGBrief Editorial
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Hub88 launches HubConnect, a new tool for suppliers and operators

Hub88 announced the launch of its new product HubConnect, which offers detailed insights for its studio partners to increase operational efficiency, along with significant enhancements to its product features.

The first-of-its-kind HubConnect comprises a Supplier Zone and Operator Zone which both aim to offer more data and create better reporting for partners on the Hub88 platform. Self-service features allow partners the ability to effectively problem solve for better use of time and resources, ultimately serving partners to do the best of their endeavors.

Further features are set to be rolled out in Q1 2025, including automated promotions, allowing suppliers to offer campaigns tailored to the last detail.

HubConnect also has a fully equipped service desk for support cases with a range of different functions. The customer experience module has been developed by centralizing all communications with supplier clients, moving away from conventional messaging apps into a more organized platform, and helping improve efficiency. ⁠

Additionally, updates to Hub88’s back office now enable operators to break down data to a more granular level to better understand player behavior. This includes the introduction of native currency reporting, providing the ability to see the activity of each account and currency, departing from the previous Euro-centric default reporting.

HubConnect will be showcased at the SBC Summit in Lisbon where Hub88 is exhibiting on Stand-B134.

Jess Inglott, Head of Supplier Relations at Hub88, said: “We are constantly reviewing ways we can further improve our offering, ensuring we make the lives of our partners easier and at the same time, providing best-in-class service.”

Also on the product launch, Ollie Castleman, Head of Hub88, added: “We have listened to client feedback for our latest enhancements, with the updates offering significant data for player insight as well as better reporting and support. There is more to come for our HubConnect product as we continue to strengthen our services, and we’re excited to showcase our portfolio at the upcoming SBC Summit in Lisbon.”

Habanero launches new feature-filled sequel with Jump! 2

AGBrief Editorial
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Habanero launches new feature-filled sequel with Jump! 2

Habanero, a premium slots and table games provider has launched its colorful new joker-themed release, Jump! 2.

The five-reel slot offers a minimum of 243 ways to win, which can climb up to 3125 as players unlock the top and bottom reels when a joker symbol lands. This unlocks a respin, which opens up two reel slots for the spin.

Displayed above the reels are base game symbols, and once all of these have been collected, the Mega Symbol feature is triggered, offering more opportunities to win.

The free spins mode features sticky Joker Wilds which can be key to awarding the max win of 2000x in this retro-themed sequel. Players can also get to the bonus directly in certain jurisdictions via the Buy Bonus feature.

Jump! 2 is the latest addition to Habanero’s growing portfolio, following a plethora of successful launches in Q3 so far such as Haunted Harbour and Glory of Rome.

Commenting on the release, Toni Karapetrov, Head of Corporate Communications at Habanero, said: “Jump! 2 evolves many of the core mechanics of the original and we’re excited to welcome back our favorite jester to our slot offering, with the addition of two new thrilling features. With Mega symbols, respins, and a bonus round centered on sticky wilds, there’s plenty to appeal to both new and existing fans of the series.”

Good weather could push Macau Golden Week visitors beyond 100k daily: Govt 

Viviana Chan
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Good weather could push Macau Golden Week visitors beyond 100k daily: Govt 

With the October Golden Week approaching, Macau could see daily visitor numbers exceed 100,000 if the good weather continues.

Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, Director of the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO), mentions that visitor numbers in August surpassed expectations, reaching over 3.65 million—an increase of nearly 10 percent compared to the same period in 2019, and more than 13 percent year-on-year. Fernandes emphasized that favorable weather has significantly contributed to these figures.

Macau Visitor Arrivals_August 2024
August’24 Visitor Arrivals
Macau Visitor Arrivals 2024(1)
Visitor Arrivals 2024
Macau
Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, Director of the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO)

As of last week, hotel occupancy rates for the holiday period were around 70 percent, with five-star hotels nearly fully booked. The overall hotel occupancy rate for January to July stood at approximately 85.5 percent, slightly lower than in 2019, but with thousands more rooms available now.

Meanwhile, Wong Suk Yan, President of the Macau Hotel Association, expressed optimism about the upcoming holiday in an interview with the local newspaper Macau Daily.

She indicated that daily visitor numbers in September could exceed 120,000, and the hotel industry is eager to build on this momentum. She highlighted the need for measures to extend visitor stays and attract more international guests to bolster Macao’s tourism sector.

Currently, about 70 percent of visitors come from mainland China, with the remainder from Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia, averaging a stay of 1.2 days. The industry aims to explore various strategies to enhance visitor experiences and lengthen their stays.

SPA, Karl Lagerfeld Hotel, Grand Lisboa Palace,Macau

Hotel prices 7% lower than May Golden Week

While room bookings for the upcoming October Golden Week appear satisfactory, macroeconomic challenges could dampen overall performance. Analysts from UBS Group AG report that 17 out of 31 tracked hotels are sold out or unavailable, a significant increase compared to both Labour Week earlier this year and last October’s Golden Week.

Despite this high demand, hotel prices are approximately 7 percent lower than during the first Golden Week of the year and remain unchanged from last October’s rates.

Kenneth Feng, executive director of MGM China, expressed optimism about achieving an overall occupancy rate of 95 to 100 percent.

Hoffman Ma, executive director of Success Universe Group, noted that occupancy rates for the first three days of the Golden Week have tentatively reached 80 to 90 percent, although room rates have decreased by 5 to 6 percent compared to last October.

UBS analysts forecast daily gross gaming revenue (GGR) to be around MOP900-950 million ($113-119 million) during the upcoming Golden Week, aligning with expectations from Labour Week 2024 and October Golden Week 2023. This forecast is bolstered by anticipated concert events and visitor growth from new Individual Visit Scheme (IVS) eligible cities.

However, Macquarie Equity Research analysts recently highlighted concerns about the quality of visitors, suggesting that while room bookings are decent, the overall demand from players may be weak. Economic uncertainties are expected to influence visitor behavior during the October 1st-7th period, leading to cautious sentiments among operators.

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