Weekend Conversation Corner – May, 09
Welcome to the most recent edition of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, a brief overview of the top headlines of the week that have captured global interest. As we summarize the whirlwind of 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 and provide a concise summary of the week’s crucial developments, keeping you informed on what truly matters in today’s fast-paced world.
Stay informed, stay inspired, and keep gaming on. Wishing you a fantastic weekend ahead!
Fernando Saffores – Founder and CEO at Focus Gaming News
Japan may open bidding for two new IR licences
The government of Japan is considering opening new applications for integrated resort (IR) licenses, with two additional permits possibly being awarded by the end of 2027. Hokkaido and Yokohama are among the prefectures that may host an IR, with Tokyo also being a potential location. Wakayama is considering bidding for an IR license after withdrawing its proposal in 2022. The only approved IR project in Japan is the MGM Osaka on Yumeshima island, set to open in 2030. The project is expected to cost JPY1.27tn (US$8.9bn) and will feature a hotel, conference facilities, exhibition space, a theater, and a casino with table games and slot machines.
SkyCity lowers EBITDA forecast
SkyCity Entertainment Group has revised its EBITDA projections for 2025 due to market conditions, lowering it by 4% to NZ$225-245m. Auckland’s spend per visit has decreased, while Hamilton and Queenstown casinos are performing as expected. Adelaide’s performance is impacted by lower visitation and VIP gaming spend, despite EGM turnover growth. CEO Jason Walbridge acknowledges challenging market conditions but remains optimistic. In the first half of 2025, revenue was down 5%, EBITDA down 22%, and NPAT down 73.1% year-on-year. Underlying net profit decreased by 41.5% mainly due to a settlement with South Australia on gaming duty. SkyCity is adjusting its cost base and remains hopeful for future opportunities like the NZICC opening in 2026.
PAGCOR reports rise in revenue in Q1
PAGCOR, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp, reported a revenue increase of 11.2% in the first quarter of the year, reaching PHP28.07bn (US$502m). Gaming revenue accounted for PHP25.52bn (US$457m), with electronic games and e-bingo contributing the most. Operating expenses decreased by 15.54%, resulting in a net income of PHP4.22bn (US$76m), up 23% year-on-year. Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco attributed this success to responsible governance and fiscal discipline. PAGCOR’s contributions to nation-building also increased by 21.5% compared to the previous year. Tengco emphasized the agency’s commitment to ensuring revenues benefit the Filipino people through various programs. Overall, PAGCOR’s strong performance in the first quarter sets a positive outlook for the rest of the year.
GCGRA signs MoU with New Jersey gaming regulator
The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) of the United Arab Emirates has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety, Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE). The MoU focuses on cooperation in cybersecurity, consumer protection, and regulatory collaboration in both land-based and online gaming. The partnership aims to drive innovation, strengthen consumer protections, and enhance economic opportunities in both regions. The GCGRA sees this collaboration as a step towards becoming a global leader in gaming innovation. The GCGRA, established in September, has already issued a lottery license and granted its first casino license to Wynn Resorts in Ras Al Khaimah. MGM Resorts has also applied for a casino license, and vendor licenses have been granted to Novomatic and EQL Games.
Belle Corp expects to receive licence for second Philippine resort this year
Belle Corp is seeking a gaming license from PAGCOR to develop an integrated resort in Clark, Pampanga. The company’s unit, Premium Leisure Corp, has applied for the license, with hopes of securing it this year. Belle Corp’s president, Armin Raquel Santos, mentioned that they have received a letter of no objection, and now await PAGCOR’s decision. If approved, the resort will require an investment of $200-300 million and take around two years to construct. Belle Corp reported a 7.8% increase in casino revenue in the first quarter of the year. Additionally, revenue from lottery services remained flat, while income from real estate activities decreased. The planned resort in Clark is expected to contribute to the company’s growth and stability in the future.
