Weekend Conversation Corner – October, 24

Welcome to the most recent installment of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, offering a brief overview of the week’s most important headlines that have captured global interest. As we summarize the week’s events, we will highlight the key stories that have impacted the narrative, influenced policies, and sparked conversations. Join us as we cut through the clutter to provide a concise summary of the week’s significant developments, keeping you informed on what truly matters in today’s ever-changing world. Stay informed, stay inspired, and keep on gaming. Have a fantastic weekend ahead!

Macau visitors for January-September up 14.5% year-on-year

In September 2025, Macau saw a 9.8% increase in visitor arrivals, totaling 2.7 million. The Statistics and Census Service of Macau reported a 14.5% year-on-year rise in visitor arrivals for the first three quarters of 2025, reaching 29.67 million. Same-day visitors increased by 24.9%, while overnight visitors rose by 2.5%. Mainland Chinese visitors accounted for the majority, with a growth of 18.4%. International visitors also increased, with significant rises from Southeast Asian and Northeast Asian markets. Despite disruptions from Super Typhoon Ragasa, Macau’s gross gaming revenue in September reached MOP18.3bn, showing a 6% year-on-year increase. Casino operations were temporarily halted due to the typhoon, impacting revenue compared to the previous month.

PAGCOR revenue almost halves after e-wallet unlinking for online gambling

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp (PAGCOR) has experienced a significant decrease in revenue following the disconnection of online gambling sites from e-wallets and the introduction of a minimum deposit rule. Revenue dropped by 49% after the central bank directed e-wallet providers to sever ties with online gambling platforms. Some players also stopped playing with licensed operators due to the new deposit rule. While regulations were put in place to address social concerns, there are calls for a complete ban or stricter regulation of online gambling. Despite contributing only 0.37% to the GDP, the industry’s revenue supports public services like education and healthcare. In 2024, gross gaming revenue from electronic games reached PHP154.51bn, with tax revenue funding various projects.

Thailand reinstates poker ban

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has reversed a decision made in July to legalize major poker tournaments in Thailand. The move to recognize poker as a legal game of skill was aimed at attracting international competitions but has now been revoked, reinstating the country’s ban on card games associated with gambling. The Interior Ministry Order No. 3179/2568 nullifies the previous directive, emphasizing the government’s zero-tolerance policy on gambling. Anutin’s administration is firm on not supporting any form of gambling, including activities disguised as sport. This decision comes after political turmoil led to Anutin’s party taking power and rejecting proposals to legalize casino resorts, citing concerns about social and financial harm. The stance reflects the government’s commitment to maintaining strict anti-gambling policies in Thailand.

Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry proposes raising betting limit for football and horse racing

The Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) is proposing an increase in the daily betting limit for horse racing and football to combat illegal operators. The draft decree suggests raising the current limit from VND1m to VND10m, but VCCI recommends setting the maximum daily bet at VND100m per player. They believe higher limits would help legal operators serve high-spending customers and compete with illegal markets. The VCCI also calls for a relaxation of advertising restrictions and a reduction in the mandatory contribution to the central government budget from 10% to 5% of gross gaming revenue during the pilot phase. They argue that this adjustment would support long-term investment and competitiveness in the industry.

Seaport reaffirms positive stance on Asia’s gaming sector

Seaport Research Partners remains optimistic about the gaming sector in Asia, particularly in Macau and Singapore, despite concerns about China’s economy. Analyst Vitaly Umansky believes that recent stock dips are unwarranted and present an opportunity for investors. Macau’s gaming revenue has shown growth, with companies like Wynn Macau and Sands China posting strong earnings. Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands is also highlighted as undervalued, with expectations of continued success. Seaport Research Partners suggests that market pessimism is exaggerated, and investors are well-compensated for taking on China-related risks. Overall, the firm sees potential for growth and profitability in the Asian gaming market.

India’s Supreme Court to weigh call for clampdown on gambling platforms posing as esports and social games

The Supreme Court of India will review a public interest litigation filed by the Centre for Accountability and Systemic Change regarding the enforcement of regulations against online gambling platforms posing as esports and social games. The plea seeks action under the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025, to address the prevalence of real-money gambling disguised as skill-based gaming. The petitioners are calling for measures to block illegal betting sites and transactions, as well as investigations into offshore betting firms for tax evasion. Concerns about data privacy, especially regarding minors, are also raised. The PIL aims to close regulatory loopholes and ensure a unified approach to online gaming laws at both central and state levels. Apple and Google are named as respondents for hosting such platforms on their app stores.

Welcome to the most recent installment of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, offering a brief overview of the week’s most important headlines that have captured global interest. As…