Good Morning. Leadership can be a fluid thing. In the case of The Star, this has been particularly prominent. Now, the group has announced that its CEO and Managing Director, Steve McCann, is leaving, effective immediately, just weeks after the Bally’s/Investment Holdings investment was approved. Looking at Macau, the closure of satellite casinos is prompting operators to lower minimum bets at baccarat tables, hoping to get more punters in the door. Looking to the Philippines, timelines and estimated gains on the privatization of Casino Filipino are still on track, as PAGCOR moves closer to pure regulator status.

What you need to know

The Star Entertainment Group’s CEO and Managing Director Steve McCann is leaving the company, effective immediately.
Macau casinos lower mass baccarat minimum bets as competition heats up to capture players displaced by satellite casino closures: Citigroup.
Casino Filipino’s privatization is targeted for late 2026 to early 2027 as PAGCOR awaits approvals to complete its transition into a pure regulator.

On the radar

Naga 3: 50% funding agreement terminated, project still proceeding.
New York Gaming Commission approves all three downstate casino licenses.
SkyCity announces the resignation of its Chief Risk Officer Carolyn Kidd.
SJM secures shareholder approval for L’Arc Hotel acquisition.
Mohegan’s refinancing eases debt overhang from INSPIRE project: CBRE.
Aristocrat debuts Tian Ci Jin in PH at Hann Casino Resort new zone.
Macau ends casino-led role in developing six historic districts.

AGB Intelligence

AUSTRALIA

Steve McCann leaves CEO and Managing Director roles at The Star

Australia’s The Star Entertainment Group has announced that its CEO and Managing Director Steve McCann is leaving the company, effective from today. The executive had only held the role for a little over a year, facing the significant challenges required for the joint investment by Bally’s and Investment Holdings to go through, as well as weathering the group’s financial troubles.

Industry Updates

Regulating the Game Global Awards 2026 nominations are officially closed.
India’s gaming industry levels up with data protection reforms.
SOFTSWISS Cinema Club hosts special partner events in Malta and Brazil.

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Written by AGBrief Editorial The AGBrief Editorial Team is a group of contributors living around the world that are connected to Asia Gaming Brief. They are active members in pursuing the sources of our news, making them reliable and accurate for our readers. More from AGBrief Editorial →