Good Morning. Down but not out. Thailand continues to pull at heart (and purse) strings, as operators try to judge the likelihood of a political environment that will support casino legislation. If the gaming-friendly Pheu Thai party can form a coalition that secures a majority, there is still hope. Otherwise… Looking to Macau, the gaming mecca saw a record post-pandemic month in August, with GGR topping $2.77 billion – an encouraging sign for 2H25 figures. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Jockey Club also set a new record in sports betting figures, even as it sets up shop for the legalization of basketball wagering.
What you need to know
- Thailand’s gaming legalization hinges on Pheu Thai’s coalition success; political instability may cause severe setbacks to casino plans, a legal expert says.
- Macau August gaming revenue tops $2.77 billion, up 12.2 percent, marking the best month post-COVID.
- Hong Kong Jockey Club sees record high sports betting in financial year, anticipates legal basketball wagering.
On the radar
- Suntrust: new ‘working arrangement’ for Westside City development/operation.
- Moody’s affirms ratings for Melco group subsidiaries and ‘stable’ outlook.
- Jeju Dream Tower posts 30.5% YoY revenue gain amid record August visitors.
- Macau summer visitors exceed 7.68M, up 7.4% from pre-pandemic levels.
AGB Intelligence
THAILAND
Gaming bill success depends on Pheu Thai coalition
While many are sounding the death knell for Thailand’s casino legislation, all hope may not yet be lost. A top legal expert notes that it’s now up to the Pheu Thai party to form a coalition government and push through a representative that can secure a majority vote in parliament. This could allow for the revival of the legislation by as early as next year. If this fails, the bill could likely be stalled indefinitely unless another party chooses to take up the gaming-friendly mantle.
Corporate Spotlight
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