Weekend Conversation Corner – July, 18
Welcome to the newest installment of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, where we delve into the week’s top headlines that have captured global interest. By breaking down the chaos of the week into a concise summary, we will discuss the key stories that have impacted the narrative, influenced policies, and sparked conversations. Join us as we filter through the chatter and provide a condensed overview of the crucial developments of the week, keeping you informed on what truly counts in today’s fast-paced world.
Stay informed, stay motivated, and keep on gaming. Have a fantastic weekend ahead!
Philippine finance secretary proposes tax hike rather than online gambling ban
Ralph Recto, the Finance Secretary of the Philippines, advocates for stricter taxation and regulation of online gambling operators instead of a ban. He believes this approach will increase state revenue, enhance transparency, and provide oversight to a sector currently dominated by illegal operators. Recto suggests a 10% tax increase on online gambling could generate around PHP20bn annually. He also proposes mandatory stock exchange listings for licensed operators to ensure financial transparency. Other regulatory measures include national ID verification to block underage users, setting a minimum gambling age of 21, and addiction warning labels. Recto warns that banning online gambling would lead to illegal activities and hinder revenue collection. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is expected to announce policy decisions on online gambling during his State of the Nation Address on July 28.
Macau VIP baccarat revenue up 22.7% in Q2
Macau’s VIP baccarat revenue reached MOP16.33bn (US$2.02bn), showing a 13% increase quarter-on-quarter and a 22.7% rise year-on-year. VIP baccarat accounted for 26.7% of total gaming revenue in the quarter. Mass-market revenue made up 73.3% of the total GGR at MOP61.1bn (US$7.58bn). Non-VIP baccarat revenue increased by 2.7% yearly. Slot machines revenue rose by 7.33% quarter-to-quarter, while Live Multi Game revenue increased by 4% sequentially. The Macau government lowered its GGR forecast for 2025 by 5%, from MOP240bn (US$29.8bn) to MOP228bn (US$28.3bn). The city’s secretary for administration and justice, André Cheong Weng Chon, announced this change after the Executive Council reviewed the government’s amended budget plan. The Macau Legislative Assembly passed the 2025 fiscal budget amendment bill, estimating gaming tax revenue of MOP79.8bn (US$9.87bn), 5% lower than previously expected.
Philippine president reportedly considers online gambling ban
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the Philippines is considering a potential nationwide ban on online gambling, with proposals ranging from stricter regulations to a complete prohibition. Palace officials are cautious about the decision, citing potential economic impacts and the rise of illegal platforms if licensed operators are banned. Senator Raffy Tulfo has urged the President to address the issue in his upcoming State of the Nation Address, while other lawmakers advocate for a mix of restrictions. Despite calls for a ban, major integrated resort operators defend their online offerings, emphasizing compliance with regulations. The Licensed Online Gaming Operators group argues for better oversight instead of a ban. The Department of Finance has proposed a 10% tax on digital gambling operators for addiction recovery, a measure supported by President Marcos if backed by research.
Macau’s Financial Intelligence Office reports a decrease in gaming-related suspicious transactions
The Financial Intelligence Office (FIO) reported a 14.9% decrease in Suspicious Transaction Reports (STRs) filed by casino operators in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Gaming accounted for 73.8% of all STRs, totaling 1,856 reports. Across all sectors, there were 2,515 STRs reported, a 12.6% decrease from the previous year. Financial institutions and insurance companies submitted 19.9% of the total reports, while other institutions filed 6.3%. The gaming sector’s share of STRs decreased slightly, while reports from financial institutions and insurance companies increased marginally. In full-year 2024, casino operators filed 3,837 STRs, showing an 11.8% increase from the previous year, with gaming accounting for 73.2% of all reports.
Bill to regulate online casino gambling passes first reading in New Zealand parliament
The Online Casino Gambling Bill in New Zealand has passed its first reading in parliament, proposing up to 15 licenses for online gambling operators. Minister Brooke van Velden introduced the legislation to regulate the currently unregulated online market and ensure player safety standards. The Department of Internal Affairs would enforce the regulatory system, with fines of up to NZ$5m for rule violations. Companies applying for a license must provide a harm prevention strategy and compliance history. The bill aims to make online gambling safer for New Zealanders and contribute to tax revenue for treating gambling harm. Public submissions will be open for feedback as the bill progresses to the select committee.
