The gambling industry’s future took center stage at the ASEAN Gaming Summit in Manila this week, with a panel titled “Where Do We Go from Here: The Operators’ Take.”
Moderated by Kelsey Wilhelm, Managing Editor of Asia Gaming Brief, the discussion featured David Lawrence – General Manager of Dragon Royale; Angel Sueiro – COO of PH Resorts; Tony Macmillan – CEO of Bally’s Colombo; and Niall Murray – Chairman of Murray International Group (Macau) Co. Ltd. Together, they offered a snapshot of shifting dynamics across key Asian markets.
Wilhelm, based in Macau, opened by asking about the state of the world’s premier gaming hub. Niall Murray described Macau as in a “transition phase.” With operators mandated to invest $25 billion – 95 percent in non-gaming ventures like entertainment and only 5 percent in casino refurbishments – he likened their efforts to a marathon with runners heading in scattered directions. “It’s not a strategic plan; they’re muddling through,” he said, noting the government’s delegation of economic diversification to operators. He expressed hope that Macau’s new CEO and the “1 plus 4” diversification strategy might align with mainland China’s expectations, potentially boosting player numbers.
Wilhelm then turned to the Philippines, recently removed from the FATF grey list. David Lawrence credited PAGCOR’s proactive stance, though he acknowledged grey areas had posed risks.
Regarding Sri Lanka, Tony Macmillan painted a picture of an emerging yet unregulated market. “It’s a grey area with a 45 percent tax and a finance ministry license,” he said. The upcoming $100 million City of Dreams (Sri Lanka) resort signals change, but firm regulations lag despite steady revenue generation.
On Macau’s non-gaming push, Murray was skeptical. “It’s hard to rival mainland China’s offerings – cheaper food, more value,” he said, noting that with 45,000 hotel rooms, 70 percent of occupancy comped by, leaving little room for non-gaming guests.
Back to the Philippines, Sueiro raised a challenge: highlighting the status and recognition of land-based gaming online. “How do you make someone feel special digitally?” he asked. Lawrence saw synergy as key in the Philippines. “It’s mobile-first here – you need both channels working together,” he said.
In Sri Lanka, Macmillan noted Bally’s operates two online sites without a specific license, anticipating new legislation for clarity.
Wilhelm asked about the Philippines’ POGO shutdown and calls to regulate PIGOs further. Sueiro suggested perception matters, noting PIGOs haven’t surfaced as an election issue – a positive sign.
Lawrence distinguished the two: “POGOs and PIGOs are different animals. PIGOs tap mass-market potential, especially beyond Metro Manila – like Cebu.”
In Sri Lanka, Macmillan tied future growth to an IMF-mandated gaming commission. “There’s plenty of money here; we’ll see what develops,” he said.
Murray wrapped up with Macau’s outlook under its new CEO. “Change is clear, compliant with mainland China, but there’s some confusion,” he said.
The panel painted an industry adapting to diverse pressures – regulation, digital shifts, and demographics. For attendees, it was a grounded yet hopeful take on where gaming might head next.
