Good morning. It’s a new dawn, it’s a new day. Macau has officially welcomed its new leadership, with Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai sworn in by China’s president. It remains to be seen exactly how the new leadership will deal with casino operators, as China’s top brass pushes for diversification away from casinos. Meanwhile, Curacao has taken a step forward with its new LOK gambling law, but not all parties are convinced of the benefits it could hold. And in Thailand, the government has confirmed it will have the final decision on the locations of new entertainment complexes, to ensure fair competition.
What you need to know
- China’s President urges Macau to diversify away from gaming, a push echoed by Macau’s newly-sworn-in Chief Executive.
- Curacao’s new LOK gambling law marks a new era for the jurisdiction, but operators and players alike already have their qualms.
- Thailand’s casino bill gives the government the final say on the locations of entertainment complexes, ensuring fair competition among investors.
On the radar
- Tabcorp restructures executive leadership to enhance wagering and media.
- “POGO Mayor” Alice Guo’s bail petition was denied.
- Bloomberry names Gregory Hawkins as acting COO of Solaire.
- Special Class of BPO confirmed as exempt from POGO ban.
- Macau visitor arrivals topped 2.83 million in November.
AGB Intelligence
MACAU
A new era for Macau has arrived
Macau is turning the page to start yet another chapter in its epic as the world’s gaming hub. The swearing-in of its new Chief Executive by China’s president brought with it mixed messages for the gaming mecca, as Xi Jinping pushed for Macau to continue its efforts away from casinos. The economic diversification strategy has already hit roadbumps, however the pledged investments must go ahead. It remains to be seen how the new leadership will hold operators to their obligations.
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