Good Morning. Will Thailand be able to advance with legalizing casinos? Following a recent Senate committee meeting, the answer is still unclear, as members failed to reach consensus, even as opposition voices gain strength. Meanwhile, in Japan the future is already decided, as a ground breaking was held for MGM Osaka, despite some predicted headwinds. And in results, Las Vegas Sands saw continued success in Singapore, while Macau lagged slightly behind expectations.
What you need to know
- Thai Senate committee’s first meeting exposes deep divisions over gambling legalization within entertainment complexes.
- Construction of the $10B MGM Osaka begins, with high expectations for how the IR can draw in tourism.
- Las Vegas Sands results drop in 1Q25, as Macau lags expectations, however Marina Bay Sands continues to deliver.
On the radar
- Bloomberry to launch new online gaming platform in 2Q25.
- G2E Asia to feature Francis Lui and Ed Bowers as keynote speakers.
- StarDream Cruises to call Thailand its home port nation.
- Macau receives 1,230 STRs in 1Q25, gaming sector reports down 20.8%.
- Thai authorities bust illegal crypto trading ring.
- Visa-free agreement between China and Malaysia extended for five years.
AGB Intelligence
THAILAND
First Senate committee meeting exposes divisions
Thailand continues to keep potential investors guessing about the possible future of casinos in the country. In the latest update, a Senate committee formed to address opposition to the legalization of gambling failed to find consensus on how to proceed. Anti-gambling voices are gaining momentum, despite attempts from pro-casino figures to point out potential economic benefits and efforts to rein-in illegal gambling.
Industry Updates
- PAGCOR strengthens quality standards with ISO 9001:2015 recertification.
- BMM Testlabs gets official approval to test gaming products in the UAE.
- Continent 8 reinforces cybersecurity defenses for Tachi Palace Casino.
INTELLIGENCE | ASEAN | CAREERS
