Your Daily Asia Gaming eBrief: PIGOs gaining momentum after a challenging start

Good morning. DFNN’s domestic online unit saw some challenges as a first-mover in the PIGOs space, but CEO Calvin Lim says growth is accelerating. Lim says the sector is evolving and a decision to allow online bets from all registered players rather than just VIPs had been a major step forward.

What you need to know

• Genting Malaysia 2Q21 revenue soared more than seven times from last year, but  the latest lockdowns in the country will weigh on business going forward.
• The Philippines’ online cockfighting sector, known as eSabong, is seeing surging revenue, with the performance outstripping that of offshore gambling operators.
• Helen Coonan is stepping away from her role as Chairman of Crown Resorts, with Ziggy Switkowski expected to assume the role on Friday, pending regulatory approval.
• Ainsworth has significantly narrowed its 2Q21 loss to AU$3.3 million as vaccination rates in its target markets improve.
• Paradise Entertainment returned to profit at the EBITDA level in 1H21 as revenue from all key areas of its business improved.

On the radar

• Macau’s vaccination rates are lagging compared to HK and Singapore.
• Macau recorded a single-day visitor record since its Aug 3 lockdown.
• New Silkroad posted zero 1H revenue from its Jeju casino.
• Las Vegas Strip July GGR hit an all-time monthly record. 
• Melco hosted a $3 million lucky draw as part of its Get the Jab campaign.

What the papers say

• Former IPI chair Cui has been found in contempt of court again.
• Bally is eyeing a New York casino license, sports betting expansion.
• Delhi court rebuffs AIGF, calls online gambling dangerous.
• Telangana is encouraging self regulation for online and fantasy gaming.

AGB Intelligence

FACE TO FACE

PIGOs gaining momentum after a challenging start: Lim

DFNN’s domestic online unit had a slow start, seeking to cope with the rollout of a new product during the pandemic, however, it’s growth is now accelerating. DFNN CEO Calvin Lim says the sector is constantly evolving and a decision to allow online bets from all registered players rather than just VIPs had been a major step forward. 

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