Good morning. SJM Holdings’ structural reset is beginning to lift operating efficiency, but the benefits have yet to reach the bottom line. The casino operator reported a first-half loss 62 percent wider, even as adjusted EBITDA rose and its margin expanded under the new direct management model. In Australia, New South Wales has set 2028 for mandatory facial recognition at gaming room entrances across approximately 2,100 pubs and clubs. And in the Philippines, PAGCOR is turning to technology to steer players away from illegal platforms, which it estimates represent half of the online gaming sites accessed nationwide.
What you need to know
- SJM Holdings’ 1H26 loss widened 62% to $37.8 million despite a 3.3% rise in adjusted EBITDA and stronger operating margins.
- NSW will introduce mandatory facial recognition and a statewide exclusion register across about 2,100 pubs and clubs from 2028.
- PAGCOR estimates that half of the online gaming sites accessed in the Philippines are illegal and plans an app to guide players to licensed platforms.
On the radar
- Wynn Al Marjan reveals details of four Townhomes within Enclave.
- Ainsworth 1H26 net profit drops 78% amid North America downturn.
- Melco Resorts Finance to redeem $600M 2027 notes 10 months early.
- Uzbekistan adds GLI to the approved gaming laboratory list.
AGB Intelligence
MACAU
SJM Holdings posts wider loss after satellite casino exit
SJM Holdings’ loss attributable to its owners widened 61.7 percent to $37.8 million in the first half of 2026, despite a 3.3 percent rise in adjusted EBITDA. Total net revenue fell 20.8 percent as the group completed its transition from satellite casinos to direct management. Chairman Daisy Ho said the new structure had strengthened SJM’s control over customer experience, costs and earnings quality, with benefits visible in its operating margin.
Industry Updates
- The Script to open SBC Summit 2026 with an exclusive live performance.
- IBIA welcomes Pure Casino as Alberta opens online gambling market.
- QTech Games strengthens platform with GoldenRace’s virtual portfolio.
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.
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