Weekend Conversation Corner – March, 27

Welcome to the most recent installment of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, where we provide a brief overview of the week’s most important headlines that have captured global attention. As we break down the flurry of events into a concise summary, we will discuss the key stories that have influenced the narrative, impacted policies, and sparked conversations. Join us as we cut through the noise and offer a condensed look at the week’s significant developments, keeping you updated on what is truly important in today’s ever-changing world.

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

Paradise Entertainment reports drop in full-year profit

Paradise Entertainment reported a 63.5% decline in profit for 2025 due to the closure of Casino Kam Pek Paradise in Macau. Revenue also fell by 23.1%, impacting both gaming equipment and casino management businesses. The cessation of operations at Casino Kam Pek Paradise, accounting for over 90% of annual profit, was a major factor in the decline. Despite the challenges, the company declared a final dividend and is focusing on new products and international expansion, such as the upcoming launch of the Black Coral system and Infernoplay igaming brand. The board remains optimistic about the future and is committed to shareholder returns.

Macau visitor surge diluted gaming spend in February, CreditSights notes

The article discusses a decrease in gross gaming revenue per visitor in Macau due to an increase in non-gaming tourists during the Chinese New Year holiday. CreditSights reported a 20% month-on-month and 21% year-on-year decline in GGR per visitor. The number of visitor arrivals in Macau rose by 32.6% in February, driven by the Lunar New Year holidays. Despite this, Macau’s GGR for February was MOP20.63bn, a 4.5% increase year-on-year but 8.9% lower than January. The cumulative GGR for the first two months of 2026 was MOP43.26bn, up 13.9% year-on-year but still 14% below pre-pandemic levels. The rise in non-gaming visitors diluted per-capita casino spending, leading to the decline in GGR per visitor.

Philippine authorities probe alleged illegal transfer of agrarian land to gaming operator

The Philippines National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is investigating the illegal transfer of agrarian lands in Bataan to a former offshore gaming operator. Around 20 farmers have submitted sworn affidavits alleging that land parcels covered by Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs) were sold without approval from the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR). Initial findings suggest the use of falsified documents in the transfer of titles, and investigations are ongoing to identify individuals involved. Former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque is among those named in connection with the transactions. The NBI is also looking into the source of funds used in the land purchases. The Philippines banned offshore gaming operators in 2025 due to concerns about human trafficking and scams.

GLI becomes first igaming testing lab accredited by PAGCOR in Philippines

GLI has been accredited as an Independent Testing Laboratory by PAGCOR in the Philippines, making it the first company authorized to test and certify online gaming platforms in the country. GLI will support PAGCOR’s policy goals by providing expertise in gaming regulation, testing, certification, and data security. GLI’s testing framework, based on the GLI-19 Standard, will ensure that igaming platforms meet regulatory and technical standards. GLI’s president, James R. Maida, expressed gratitude for the trust placed in the company by PAGCOR and looks forward to working together to achieve policy objectives. PAGCOR’s chairman, Alejandro H. Tengco, acknowledged GLI as a global leader in regulatory advisory, igaming testing, and data security, highlighting the importance of their accreditation in the Philippines.

Macau premium mass segment holds up in March, says Citigroup

Summary:
Citigroup reports a strong performance in Macau’s premium mass gaming segment, with higher-value play offsetting the usual seasonal decline in volume. The average wager per player increased by 17% year-on-year to HKD20,689, while the number of players decreased by 16%. Total wagers remained flat at HKD11.2m. The bank noted an increase in high rollers, with 25 whales betting HKD100,000 or more, up from 20 the previous year. Galaxy Entertainment Group led with a 32% share of wagers, followed by Sands China at 21%. Citigroup predicts low-to-mid teens growth in gross gaming revenue for the first quarter of 2026.

Macau visitors for February up 32.6% year-on-year

In February 2026, Macau saw a 32.6% increase in visitor arrivals, totaling 4.17 million, driven by the Lunar New Year holidays. Mainland Chinese visitors accounted for the majority, with a 43.6% rise. International visitors slightly decreased by 3.3%. The average length of stay fell to 0.9 days. In the first two months of 2026, total visitor arrivals rose by 15.1%. The gross gaming revenue for February was MOP20.63bn, up 4.5% year-on-year but lower than January. Cumulatively, the GGR for the first two months was MOP43.26bn, a 13.9% increase from the previous year but still below pre-pandemic levels.

Welcome to the most recent installment of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, where we provide a brief overview of the week’s most important headlines that have captured global attention. As we break down the flurry of events into a concise summary, we will discuss the key stories that have influenced the narrative, impacted…