Weekend Conversation Corner – March, 06

Welcome to the newest edition of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, a brief examination of the week’s most significant headlines that have captured global interest. As we condense the flurry of events into a coherent and concentrated summary, we will discuss the crucial stories that have molded the narrative, impacted policies, and sparked conversations. Join us as we filter through the chaos and offer a concise overview of the week’s essential advancements, keeping you informed about what truly counts in today’s swiftly changing world.

Stay informed, stay motivated, and keep gaming on. And have a fantastic weekend ahead!

Bloomberry EBITDA falls amid weaker VIP and premium mass gaming

Bloomberry Resorts Corporation, a Philippine integrated resort operator, reported a 39% decline in consolidated EBITDA for 2025 due to softer high-end gaming segments. Despite a decrease in gross gaming revenue and a net loss, the company saw growth in non-gaming revenue. Operating expenses increased, partly due to the launch of their online gaming platform. The opening of Solaire Resort North helped offset weaker VIP demand at their flagship property. The CEO mentioned challenges from regulatory uncertainty and implemented cost-saving measures. Debt refinancing activities were successful, and the company remains optimistic about future gains. They are focusing on enhancing their gaming properties and digital platforms while waiting for regulatory clarity in the online segment.

SJM posts 2025 loss as satellite casino closures impact results

SJM Holdings Limited reported a loss of HK$429m in 2025 due to the phased closure of satellite casinos in Macau. Net revenue decreased by 2.1%, with gross gaming revenue falling by 0.7% and adjusted EBITDA dropping by 15%. The company attributed these results to the cessation of satellite casino operations, while its self-promoted portfolio showed resilience. The Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau generated revenue of HK$7.37bn, with gaming revenue increasing, but adjusted property EBITDA declined. Chairman Daisy Ho highlighted the strategic realignment the group underwent in response to regulatory changes and competition. Moving forward, SJM Holdings plans to consolidate resources, focus on upgrades, and prioritize cost discipline to support growth.

New Zealand sets the date for online casino licensing

The New Zealand government plans to regulate the online casino industry with a three-stage approval process starting in July 2026. The Department of Internal Affairs will oversee the licensing process, limiting operators to 15 and aiming to prevent the flow of $442m annually to offshore platforms. Operators will go through an expression of interest phase, a competitive license auction, and detailed regulatory checks. Licenses will be granted for up to three years, with renewals based on compliance. Major players like SkyCity Entertainment Group and Entain are interested in securing licenses. Licensed operators will contribute 4% of gross gaming revenue to community programs. This move addresses concerns about potential losses to community funding and is expected to generate between $5.9m and $11.8m in the first year.

Racing Integrity Board steps up monitoring as New Zealand prepares for online casino licensing

New Zealand’s Racing Integrity Board is concerned about the impact of crypto-enabled operators and offshore wagering on local racing. With the expected launch of licensed online casino operations by the end of 2026, Chief Executive Dr. Eliot Forbes highlighted the overlap between online gaming and racing products. Despite TAB NZ’s exclusive rights, domestic wagering only represents a third of total Australasian betting on New Zealand races. The rise of crypto-enabled sportsbooks poses a significant threat, with over 50 leading brands accepting bets on New Zealand racing without adhering to integrity standards. The RIB is expanding offshore monitoring, tracking crypto-deposit activity, and advocating for greater transparency from operators. Forbes emphasized the need for more sophisticated monitoring and cooperation to address these challenges.

Macau GGR rises 4.5% year-over-year in February

In February, Macau’s gross gaming revenue (GGR) reached MOP20.63bn (US$2.57bn), showing a 4.5% increase year-on-year but an 8.9% decrease from January’s GGR. Despite high expectations for the Chinese New Year holiday, analysts noted a slow start to gaming activities in Macau during the festive period. The cumulative GGR for the first two months of 2026 was MOP43.26bn (US$5.38bn), a 13.9% increase compared to the previous year but still 14% below pre-pandemic levels. In 2025, Macau’s GGR reached MOP247.40bn (US$30.9bn), exceeding government forecasts and representing 84.6% of the 2019 total before the Covid-19 pandemic. Strong December GGR performance contributed to the overall positive results in 2025.

Welcome to the newest edition of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, a brief examination of the week’s most significant headlines that have captured global interest. As we condense the flurry of events into a coherent and concentrated summary, we will discuss the crucial stories that have molded the narrative, impacted policies, and sparked…