Weekend Conversation Corner – May, 15
Welcome to the newest installment of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, a brief exploration of the week’s top headlines that have captured global interest. As we condense the flurry of events into a focused summary, we will discuss the key stories that have shaped the narrative, impacted policies, and sparked conversations. Join us as we cut through the clutter and provide a concise overview of the week’s important developments, keeping you informed on what truly counts in today’s fast-paced world.
Stay informed, stay inspired, and keep on gaming. Have a fantastic weekend ahead!
Universal reports improved Q1 results thanks to amusement equipment business
Universal Entertainment Corp returned to operating profitability in the first quarter of fiscal year 2026, with its amusement equipment division driving growth. The company reported a 4.2% increase in consolidated net sales, reaching ¥28.43bn (US$196.2m), and operating profit of ¥3.50bn (US$24.1m). Okada Manila, however, saw a decline in net sales and operating profit. VIP rolling chip volume increased, but the rolling chip win and VIP win rate decreased. The company emphasized cost management measures to support performance at Okada Manila. Looking ahead, Universal expects increased competition in the Philippine market and potential impacts from tensions in the Middle East. The company plans to focus on digital gaming initiatives through its Okada Play online platform. Universal maintained its full-year forecast of ¥140bn (US$965.5m) in net sales, ¥16bn (US$110.3m) in operating profit, and adjusted EBITDA of ¥29bn (US$200.0m).
Jeju Dream Tower drives record Q1 revenue growth for Lotte Tour Development
Lotte Tour Development reported record first-quarter revenue of US$111.5m, driven by growth at the Jeju Dream Tower integrated resort in South Korea. The casino operations at the resort saw a 40.3% increase in revenue, with VIP activity and foreign visitation contributing to the growth. Hotel operations also showed solid growth, with revenue from the Grand Hyatt Jeju increasing by 20.2% year-on-year. Despite concerns over the Middle East situation and the off-season, the company remains optimistic about the future and expects a significant improvement in annual results as the tourism season progresses.
PAGCOR remits over US$98.4m in dividends to the Philippine National Treasury
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has remitted PHP5.67bn (US$98.4m) in dividends to the Philippine National Treasury, representing 50% of its net earnings for 2025. This contribution, in line with the Philippines’ Dividends Law, brings PAGCOR’s total dividend contributions since 2022 to PHP29.9bn (US$519.3m). PAGCOR’s chairman and CEO, Alejandro H. Tengco, emphasized the agency’s commitment to supporting government programs despite global challenges. The Deputy National Treasurer, Kenneth Ian Francisco, highlighted the importance of this remittance in providing fiscal resources to address the impact of the global oil crisis and promote economic and social transformation. The contribution aims to uplift the lives of Filipinos and support economic initiatives in the face of ongoing uncertainty.
PAGCOR introduces new caps on e-gaming cashback and rebate programmes
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has introduced new rules for cash rebate and cashback programs in electronic gaming. Cash rebates based on player turnover are capped at 1.5% for certain games, while cashback on player net losses can be up to 15% for all electronic games. Approval by PAGCOR’s Electronic Gaming Licensing Department is required, considering the game’s return-to-player rate. Marketing and promotional applications must be submitted for approval before implementation, with specific requirements for program structures. Cash rebates and cashback are classified as marketing expenses and cannot be deducted from gross gaming revenue. Non-compliant programs have a transition period until May 15, 2026, after which no extensions or modifications will be allowed. These changes have been included in the regulatory frameworks for gaming system administrators and gaming venue operations.
Macau gaming tax revenue up 16.9% January-April
The Macau government collected US$4.34bn in casino taxes in the first four months of 2026, representing a 16.9% increase from the previous year. Gaming taxes accounted for nearly 86.5% of government revenue during this period, with April alone generating US$1.12bn in gaming tax revenue. Under the 10-year concessions, casinos pay 40% on GGR, and the government estimates total income from gaming sector taxes to reach US$11.52bn for the year. Despite a 12.1% increase in GGR compared to the previous year, Macau’s GGR for the first four months of 2026 was still 14% below pre-pandemic levels.
