Weekend Conversation Corner – June, 26
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Welcome to the most recent installment of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, where we provide a brief overview of the week’s top headlines that have captured global interest. As we summarize the key stories that have impacted the narrative, influenced policies, and sparked conversations, join us in filtering through the noise to present a concise update on the week’s significant developments. Stay informed, stay inspired, and keep gaming on. Wishing you a fantastic weekend ahead!
Vicki Scott, DIA: “The Online Casino Gambling Act provides the regulator with new enforcement tools”
The article discusses the implementation of New Zealand’s new online casino regulatory regime following the passage of the Online Casino Gambling Act. Vicki Scott, director of Gambling at New Zealand’s Department of Internal Affairs, outlines the upcoming licensing process for online casino operators, including eligibility checks and a staged rollout starting in mid-2026. The regulatory framework includes strict advertising prohibitions and financial obligations. The article also addresses enforcement against offshore operators and the allocation of tax revenues for community benefits and harm prevention programs. The government plans to issue up to 15 licenses through a competitive auction process. International partnerships and best practices have influenced New Zealand’s approach to online casino regulation. The DIA’s top priorities for the next 12 months include conducting the licensing process, ensuring compliance with the new Act, and educating the public on safe gambling practices.
ACMA makes gambling advertising reform a key enforcement priority for 2026–27
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has revealed its enforcement priorities for 2026–27, with a focus on implementing Australia’s gambling advertising reforms. The regulator aims to enhance industry compliance to better protect consumers, particularly in the area of gambling advertising. ACMA Chair Nerida O’Loughlin emphasized the importance of acting where industry fails to meet standards. The ACMA also released its 2025–26 Compliance Priorities Outcomes Report, detailing its regulatory activities, including investigations into offshore gambling services and enforcement actions taken. Additionally, over 64,500 Australians have enrolled in the BetStop self-exclusion scheme since its launch in 2023, with positive impacts on participants’ quality of life, mental health, and relationships.
Nagasaki governor says prefecture could support potential Omura integrated resort bid
Ken Hirata, the Governor of Nagasaki, has expressed readiness to offer expertise to support a potential bid for hosting a casino in Omura City. Discussions within Omura’s business community indicate growing interest in submitting a bid for an integrated resort (IR) with a casino. While only prefectures and designated cities can apply for IR licenses, Omura would require Nagasaki Prefecture’s backing. Hirata emphasized the need for Omura City to first discuss the desire for an IR before proceeding. A feasibility study council is set to be established in August to assess the viability of an IR project, with recommendations expected by the end of 2026. Nagasaki previously failed to secure approval for an IR in 2023, with Osaka’s MGM Resorts-led project being the sole approval. The new IR application window in Japan is set from May 6 to November 5, 2027.
Maybank expects inflation and lack of VIPs to continue to pressure Philippine casino gaming
Maybank Investment Bank has warned that land-based casinos in the Philippines will face ongoing challenges in the second half of 2026. The forecast cites inflation, high utility costs impacting disposable income, and a lack of VIP high-rollers due to slower tourism growth as key factors. Despite a 2.6% increase in foreign visitor arrivals in the first quarter, the gaming sector may see a significant decline in annual gross gaming revenue. Alejandro Tengco, chairman and CEO of Pagcor, anticipates a potential 19% drop in revenue to PHP320bn, compared to PHP396.14bn in 2025. These challenges highlight the uncertain future for the Philippine gambling industry in the coming months.
Morgan Stanley lowers Macau 2026 GGR forecast
Morgan Stanley has revised its forecast for Macau’s gaming industry in 2026, expecting slower growth in gross gaming revenue (GGR) and earnings. Analysts Praveen Choudhary and Stephen Grambling now project a 5.3% year-on-year GGR growth, lower than the market consensus of 6%. Quarterly GGR growth is expected to be 2-3% through the fourth quarter of 2026. The bank also reduced its EBITDA forecast from 2% to 1% growth, citing slower revenue growth and higher costs. Earnings estimates for Sands China and SJM Holdings were negatively revised due to weaker performance expectations. This revision follows a previous downgrade in March, indicating ongoing challenges in the Macau gaming sector despite revenue growth. For more information, you can visit the article here.
FIFA World Cup sends Macau premium mass bets to post-pandemic low, Citi says
Citigroup’s survey shows a 38% decrease in premium mass wagering in Macau compared to last year. Analysts predict that the FIFA World Cup 2026 is impacting Macau’s gaming industry, with lower player volume and betting. The tournament is expected to divert some gambling budgets to sports betting, affecting Macau’s gaming revenue. The survey also revealed a decrease in premium mass players and whales, with a 13% decline in average wager per player. Citi reported a 20% drop in daily gross gaming revenue since the World Cup began. The expanded format of the World Cup, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches, is anticipated to have a significant impact on gaming expenditure in Macau.
Welcome to the most recent installment of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, where we provide a brief overview of the week’s top headlines that have captured global interest. As we summarize the key stories that have impacted the narrative, influenced policies, and sparked conversations, join us in filtering through the noise to present…
