Osaka economy to thrive on IR

According to brokerage Nomura, if Osaka hosted the World Expo and an IR it would boost its economy.

Japan.- The casino industry has yet to land in Japan as it is still unclear where the integrated resorts (IRs) will be located. However, Osaka is one of the front-runners for an IR licence and, according to experts, a potential venue would have a great impact in the region’s economy.

Japanese brokerage Nomura assessed that the Osakan economy would be boosted hugely by a potential IR bid win, as well as if the region wins the bid to host the World Expo in 2025. “A win for both the World Expo bid and the casino licence would be expected to boost investment returns and have a positive impact on Osaka’s economy,” the brokerage said in a recent note.

“This would likely stimulate redevelopment around Yumeshima, and benefit companies with real estate in the area and Osaka-based construction companies. We also believe that drawing more foreign visitors to the area would increase the stability and growth prospects for the many hotels already being developed in the area,” Nomura added.