Os satélites (VER OUTRA ENTRADA)

mar25

mar25

The ramp up of business at the Grand Lisboa Palace resort in Cotai, run by Macau concessionaire SJM Holdings Ltd, has been slower than expected by investment analysts, but should continue as the company makes “targeted investments” to improve operations at the complex, say two separate brokerages.

CBRE Capital Advisors Inc suggested in a Wednesday memo that any closure of a satellite casino in Macau operated under SJM Holdings could eventually contribute to lift business volumes at Grand Lisboa Palace (pictured).

Satellite casinos operate under the gaming licence of a Macau concessionaire, but are usually promoted by third parties.

Under a new gaming regulatory framework – coinciding with the current 10-year concessions of the six Macau operators – third-party investors in satellite casinos will only be permitted to earn a “management fee” via a ‘management company’ from 2026.

Macau has 11 satellite casinos that continued to operate under the new 10-year gaming concessions that started in January 2023. Nine of the 11 satellite casinos are under SJM Holdings’ licence, one is under Galaxy Entertainment Group Ltd’s permit, and one is under Melco Resorts & Entertainment Ltd’s gaming rights.

https://www.ggrasia.com/grand-lisboa-palace-to-continue-to-ramp-up-any-satellite-casino-closure-could-help-biz-analysts?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=grand-lisboa-palace-to-continue-to-ramp-up-any-satellite-casino-closure-could-help-biz-analysts

mar25

As the three-year transition period for satellite casinos approaches its conclusion, workers are bracing for potential job losses and reduced benefits amid significant industry changes.

The impending deadline, set for the end of the year, will restrict operations of the remaining 11 satellite casinos to management companies, intensifying concerns about job security among employees.

Many workers, some with nearly two decades of experience in the gaming sector, fear that these changes will adversely affect their welfare.

“We are worried about whether our benefits will be reduced and if we will be able to keep our jobs amid potential operational shifts,” shared one employee who has dedicated over a decade to the casino, as reported by TDM.

Another anonymous employee, reflecting on the uncertainty, expressed anxiety about adapting to new roles if operational changes occur.

“I’m concerned about my ability to handle a new job,” they stated.

The transition has already resulted in displacement for some, with colleagues being transferred to unrelated departments, such as kitchens, while others, particularly older workers, have opted for early retirement.

The operational model for satellite casinos is poised for a significant shift, restricting them to earning only fixed management fees starting next year.

This change raises concerns about financial viability; some managers argue that if these fees are set at unsustainable levels, it could impede their ability to repay bank loans. To ensure sustainability, they are advocating for rental prices to be aligned with operational performance.

Lawmaker Lei Leong Wong emphasized the broader implications, noting that the closure of satellite casinos could impact not only employees but also surrounding small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). “Business owners near the satellite casinos are also worried,” Wong said.

Wong urged the government to announce a clear plan to safeguard job opportunities for affected workers and to consider the economic ripple effects on the community.

While gaming concessionaires are responsible for employees under their contracts, many satellite casino workers are employed by contractors, leaving them in a precarious position.

Adding to the discussion, Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai spoke about the handling of satellite casinos, emphasizing the contractual obligations of gaming concessionaires in managing these establishments. He stated, “I believe gaming concessionaires will coordinate well with satellite casino operators. Workers of satellite casinos are sent to work there by gaming concessionaires. They are supposed to have an arrangement to take over them.”

He also mentioned that if gaming concessionaires require assistance, the SAR government would be ready to help.

Sam clarified, “Of course, gaming concessionaires will have their business judgment in dealing with these workers. If they need help from the SAR government, we will provide them help. Will the SAR government intervene in their discussion? It’s more on the gaming concessionaires. There are supposed to be contracts. Also, they are supposed to have certain anticipations during the transition period. They should consider how to deal with it.”

The concerns extend beyond the casino workers themselves.

As reported last week, Secretary for Security Wong Sio Chak has also voiced apprehension about the potential closure of satellite casinos, emphasizing the social and economic ramifications.

During a press conference on the 2024 crime report last week, Wong stated that the government is closely monitoring the situation, particularly its impact on employment and nearby businesses. He noted that while the issue is not currently a public security concern, it could evolve into one if not addressed promptly.

Lawmakers affiliated with the Macau Federation of Trade Unions, including Leong Sun Iok, Ella Lei, and José Pereira Coutinho, have echoed these concerns. They highlighted the significant impact on businesses in the ZAPE area following the closure of seven satellite casinos two years ago and warned that the loss of another 11 venues could devastate the local economy.

Pereira Coutinho has called for an extension of the transition deadline, while Lei and Leong have urged gaming concessionaires to find solutions, such as acquiring the casinos or reintegrating displaced workers into other properties. Victoria Chan

https://macaudailytimes.com.mo/satellite-casino-workers-brace-for-uncertainty-as-transition-deadline-nears.html

fev25

Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering a “stable”, “healthy”, and “orderly” gaming industry as the transition period for satellite casinos nears its end.

Speaking to the media on Thursday, Sam said that gaming operators and their partners in the satellite casino business had had sufficient time to manage the three-year transition efficiently.

As many as 30 casinos are currently operating across the city, with 11 of them classified as “satellite casinos”—gambling houses that depend on the licences of larger concessionaires but are located on premises owned by third parties.

The majority of these casinos partner with SJM Holdings. During the Covid-19 pandemic, seven were forced to close amid unfavourable business conditions.

Such offsite casinos have until the end of the year to switch to a partnership arrangement in which they can only charge a management fee.

It is believed by some industry observers that the remaining operations have a combined workforce of between 11,000 and 12,000.

“I have recently noticed public opinion on the matter, and I believe gaming companies are coordinating well with satellite casino operators,” Sam said.

The city leader also pledged that the government would provide necessary support to staff in need.

Addressing this matter during an earnings event for Galaxy Entertainment Group on Thursday, Chairman Francis Lui vowed to prioritise the interests of local workers.

Waldo Casino, Galaxy’s satellite partner, employs more than 100 workers.

“The group and its partner are still discussing the operation of the Waldo project and the prospects for employees, but we will need to wait for a government decision first,” he said.

Legislator Lei Leong Wong revealed recently that he had received many assistance requests from concerned employees.

“If satellite casinos halve their operations, it could affect employment as well as the surrounding communities economically,” he said in a recent media interview.

“The government should actively address this issue and facilitate early coordination between satellite casinos and the gaming concessionaires to reach a consensus on management and minimise the impact.”

https://www.macaubusiness.com/city-leader-promises-orderly-transition-for-satellite-casinos/

fev25

Police closely monitoring risks as satellite casino transition ends: Secretary Wong

By

 Tony Lai

Macau police will closely monitor and assess any potential risks associated with satellite casinos as they approach the end of a three-year transition period this year, Secretary for Security Wong Sio Chak said on Thursday.

His remarks came during a press conference on Macau’s crime situation in 2024, amid growing concerns from satellite casino operators and employees about their future.

“This year marks the final year of the three-year transition period for satellite casinos, and security in this segment has remained stable,” Wong said.

“I hope it will remain stable as always this year,” he added. “The police will analyse any situation in a timely manner and maintain close communication with other departments to stay informed and assess potential risks [concerning satellite casinos].”

Uncertainty over future

Satellite casinos in Macau are gaming venues that operate under the licence of a casino concessionaire but are managed and promoted by third-party entities. Under Macau’s revised gaming law, amended in 2022, satellite casinos are no longer allowed to share gaming revenue with concessionaires and may only receive a management fee.

The law allows a three-year transition period, ending in 2025, for satellite casinos to adjust to this new model.

However, it is reported that neither the Macau government nor the city’s six gaming concessionaires have engaged in discussions with these venues regarding their future—particularly on the calculation of management fees—raising concerns among stakeholders in the community.

On Wednesday, a group of employees and management executives from local satellite casinos met with legislator Lei Leong Wong to voice their concerns and seek assistance.

Call for government coordination

A satellite casino executive, who remained anonymous, told local media on Wednesday that satellite casinos had “repeatedly sought” discussions with the concessionaires, but had yet to receive a response.

“The delay in these discussions is not just affecting satellite casinos—it also impacts our outsourcing partners,” the executive stated. “If an agreement with the gaming concessionaires cannot be reached soon, it will affect contract signings with outsourcing firms, which in turn could disrupt their hiring plans.”

He urged the government to intervene, arguing that direct negotiations between satellite casinos and gaming concessionaires alone were unlikely to produce a consensus.

“The government should step in to coordinate discussions and cooperation between the two parties, helping to balance their interests, assist employees and surrounding businesses in ensuring a smooth transition, and maintain social stability,” the executive said.

Immense financial pressures for staff

Macau currently has 30 casinos, including 11 satellite casinos, nine of which operate under the concession of SJM Holdings Ltd. Seven satellite casinos shut down in 2022, largely due to a combination of regulatory changes and the lingering effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Industry estimates suggest that the 11 remaining satellite casinos employ between 11,000 and 12,000 workers.

Several satellite casino employees who attended the meeting with Lei on Wednesday expressed fears that they could lose their jobs if their employers shut down. Many cited financial pressures, such as mortgage payments and family responsibilities, as key concerns.

“There is significant concern among employees about the fate of satellite casinos and our livelihoods,” one employee was quoted as saying. “We hope for a smooth transition and the ability to continue in our current positions with our existing companies.”

Broader economic impact

Investment bank CLSA suggested in a research note last year that the end of the transition period would reshape the operational structure of satellite casinos but would not eliminate their role in Macau’s gaming industry. It proposed that management fees could be tied to the performance of satellite casinos in 2025, with room for adjustments based on inflation.

Legislator Lei, speaking after meeting with satellite casino staff, stressed the broader economic implications of potential closures. “If satellite casinos were to close, it would have a significant impact on both the community and the wider economy,” he said.

“The SAR government should release relevant information and take a proactive role in coordinating relations between gaming concessionaires and satellite casinos,” he added. “Regardless of the agreements reached between the two sides, the priority should be ensuring the continued operation of satellite casinos to protect local employment.”

https://www.macaubusiness.com/police-closely-monitoring-risks-as-satellite-casino-transition-ends-secretary-wong/

FEV25

An executive at one of Macau’s satellite casinos told media on Wednesday that they have yet to hold any discussions with either the government or concessionaires around the transition to the city’s new satellite law when it comes into effect next year.

As reported by IAG, the new law will mean the operators of Macau’s 11 satellite casinos will no longer be allowed to engage in revenue share agreements with concessionaires and will instead only be permitted to receive a fixed management fee.

However, the executive said Wednesday that the government has not yet entered into the situation and that concessionaires had not yet responded to satellite casino operator’s requests for clarity.

“It’s almost March now,” he said. “Satellite casinos work with a lot of other companies, including some outsourcing contracts which are now beginning to be discussed.

“For example, for cleaning and other services we have to start discussions now with the outsourcing companies.”

Under the new law, satellite casino operators will essentially be given the option to rent out the property and establish casino operations much like a tenant would any other business, although the casino will still run under the relevant concessionaire’s gaming concession.

The executive said most satellite casino operators were of the view that the rent should be determined flexibly – possibly on a monthly basis based on gaming volume.

He also noted that Macau’s 11 satellite casinos have more than 10,000 employees combined across various departments.

“Satellite casinos generally have borrowed from banks, so if they close down it will have a certain impact on the financial environment,” he added, revealing that some banks had already made enquiries with satellite casinos about their situation.

Legislative councilor Lei Leong Wong, who has previously raised a written question on the issue, said again that he hoped the government would intervene as soon as possible because a large number of employees and shops in the vicinity of satellite casinos were involved.

“When the Government intervenes, it should deal with the matter in the direction of the continued operation of the satellite casino, so as to protect the employment of the employees of the satellite casino,” Lei said.

https://asgam.com/2025/02/27/macau-satellite-casino-operator-says-no-discussions-yet-with-government-concessionaires-on-industrys-future/

fev25

Gaming-table yield at Macau satellite venue Casino Kam Pek Paradise (pictured) is likely for 2024 to have been the “third-highest” in Macau, with only the gaming concessionaires Wynn Macau Ltd and MGM China Holdings Ltd, being higher.

Brokerage CLSA Ltd said in a Thursday report, by analysts Jeffrey Kiang and Leo Pan: “Compared with all six Macau gaming concessionaires, our published forecast implies Casino Kam Pek Paradise’s table yield – i.e., gross gaming revenue (GGR) per table –  to be HKD115,355 [US$14,811]… per day in 2024, trailing behind only Wynn Macau [Ltd] and MGM China.”

Casino Kam Pek Paradise, in downtown Macau, is under the licence of SJM Holdings Ltd, and is run via a services agreement by Hong Kong-listed Paradise Entertainment Ltd.

The latter firm is also the parent of casino electronic table game (ETG) specialist LT Game Ltd.  Casino Kam Pek Paradise’s gaming inventory includes LT Game’s live multi game (LMG) machines.

CLSA’s note was about its view of the fundamentals of Paradise Entertainment’s business.

The brokerage stated, explaining its view on why it estimated Casino Kam Pek Paradise as a Macau market leader in table yield: “We attribute this to the massive adoption of LMG terminals in Casino Kam Pek Paradise, which accommodates roughly 1,000 terminals within a casino floor of 200,000 square feet [18,581 sq. metres].”

The CLSA analysts said factors including “quick table turnover“ and “ultra-low minimum bets” made LMG terminals “popular among grind mass players”.

The brokerage added that as a manager of a satellite, rather than being a gaming concessionaire in its own right, Paradise Entertainment was also not constrained by the concessionaires’ non-gaming spending commitments to the Macau government.

In first-half 2024, Paradise Entertainment’s satellite casino operations business made up the bulk of the firm’s earnings.

Under a new gaming regulatory framework for Macau – coinciding with the current 10-year concessions of the six Macau operators – from the year 2026, third-party investors in Macau satellite casinos will only be permitted to earn a “management fee” via a ‘management company’.

CLSA observed in its Thursday note, referring to the satellite topic: “Uncertainty about compensation for casino managers [management entities] after 2025 remains, but we think the ‘management fee’ from 2026 onwards will be based on Casino Kam Pek Paradise’s performance in 2025 – with step-up and/or inflation-linked terms.”

Paradise Entertainment has also been refreshing its gaming machine product range.

In November, LT Game demonstrated the latest software for its LMG product platform. The software, branded “Black Coral”, is said to feature artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, and is compatible either with the company’s new slant-top SpeedWave LMG cabinet or earlier product.

In January, the LT Game’s chief operating officer Eddie Au, confirmed to GGRAsia that it was targeting its latest EGM product, “Super Bull”, for the Macau market and Southeast Asia.

CLSA observed in its Thursday memo, regarding the Paradise Entertainment parent: “Opportunities for overseas expansion abound. The company is positioning itself to sell slot machines into overseas markets, primarily in the Southeast Asia region. “

CLSA added: “Although this business remains at an early stage, investors can enjoy further earnings upside from these overseas sales once they materialise. These sales should not come with high incremental selling expenses, and costs should be comfortably absorbed by the 60-percent to 70-percent gross margin.”

In Paradise Entertainment’s first half 2024 results, issued in August, the group said revenue from casino operations stood at HKD356.5 million, up 48.5 percent from a year earlier.

Revenue in the electronic gaming equipment and systems segment grew to HKD68.2 million in the first half this year, compared to HKD3.9 million a year earlier.

https://www.ggrasia.com/satellite-casino-kam-pek-likely-3rd-best-2024-table-yield-in-macau-at-us14-8k-daily-just-behind-wynn-macau-ltd-and-mgm-china-brokerage-clsa?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=satellite-casino-kam-pek-likely-3rd-best-2024-table-yield-in-macau-at-us14-8k-daily-just-behind-wynn-macau-ltd-and-mgm-china-brokerage-clsa

jan25

As Macau’s satellite casinos approach the end of a three-year transitional period, some operators have proposed tying future management fees to their average win rate over the past six months.

This suggestion was made by a satellite casino operator in comments to Macau Daily News on Tuesday. The report, however, did not disclose the identity of the operator.

The operator told the city’s largest newspaper that they “have not received any updates” about the future of satellite casinos or how management fees will be calculated, despite only 11 months remaining before the grace period expires.

Satellite casinos in Macau are gaming venues operated under the licence of a casino concessionaire but managed and promoted by third-party entities. Under Macau’s new gaming law, amended in 2022, satellite casinos will no longer be allowed to share gaming revenue with concessionaires. Instead, they will receive a management fee.

Nonetheless, the law provides a three-year transitional period, ending in 2025, for satellite casinos to adapt to the new management company model.

Uniform fees not feasible

“Gaming concessionaires are likely taking a wait-and-see approach, waiting for the government to provide updated guidance before making any decisions,” the operator was quoted as saying. “The stance of concessionaires on management fees is critical and could determine whether satellite casinos survive or shut down.”

The operator emphasised that a uniform management fee structure would not be feasible, citing the diverse financial circumstances of satellite casinos, such as varying monthly win rates, personnel costs, operating expenses, and loan obligations.

“Using the average win rate of a satellite casino over the past six months as the basis for setting management fees could be a viable solution,” the operator suggested. “This would strike a balance between the interests of gaming concessionaires and satellite casinos.”

Call for government coordination

With the transitional period nearing its end, the operator urged the Macau government to step in and mediate the discussions.

“With just 11 months left until the end of the grace period, [we] hope the government will take the initiative to coordinate and help resolve this issue. This would balance the interests of concessionaires and satellite casinos, enabling a seamless transition by the end of the year,” the operator said. “Satellite casinos can then continue to make contributions to Macau’s gaming industry and its tax revenue.”

Currently, Macau has 30 casinos, including 11 satellite casinos, nine of which operate under the concession of SJM Holdings Ltd. Seven satellite casinos shut down in 2022, largely due to the combination of the new gaming law and the lingering effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.

In November, Jay Chun, co-chairman and managing director of Paradise Entertainment, which operates Casino Kam Pek under SJM’s licence, said he hoped discussions about the future of satellite casinos would begin “soon.” He highlighted that one of the key issues in these talks would be how management fees are calculated.

Meanwhile, brokerage CLSA suggested in a research note released last year that the end of the three-year grace period would reshape the operational structure of satellite casinos but would not eliminate their role in Macau’s gaming sector. CLSA proposed that management fees could be tied to satellite casinos’ performance in 2025, with room for adjustments based on inflation.

https://www.macaubusiness.com/satellite-casino-operator-advocates-management-fee-based-on-six-month-average-win-rate/

jan25

Macau’s satellite casino operators have expressed confusion over the lack of guidance from both the government and gaming concessionaires regarding the management fees for satellite casinos.

They have called for the government to take the lead in coordinating efforts to balance the interests of gaming operators and satellite casinos, ensuring profitability for the satellite venues, and stabilizing the business environment in the NAPE area of the Macau Peninsula, which is believed to be most affected by local economic headwinds.

The statement was reported by the local media outlet Macao Daily, but the report did not identify the names of the satellite casinos expressing this opinion.

https://agbrief.com/news/macau/21/01/2025/macau-satellite-casinos-call-for-guidance-as-transition-period-nears-end/?utm_source=Asia+Gaming+Brief&utm_campaign=ff6b9e647d-AGB%3A+%2302067+Wednesday%2C+22nd+January%2C+2025&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_51950b5d21-ff6b9e647d-%5BLIST_EMAIL_ID%5D&ct=t%28AGB%3A+%2302067+Wednesday%2C+22nd+January%2C+2025%29&goal=0_51950b5d21-ff6b9e647d-%5BLIST_EMAIL_ID%5D&mc_cid=ff6b9e647d&mc_eid=31e20475e6

dec24

Macau gaming operators are anticipating regulatory fine-tuning for satellite casinos in 2025. This expectation was shared with Bank of America, although the names of the operators were not disclosed.

Following meetings with all six gaming operators, Bank of America revealed that some operators believe the newly introduced “once-a-week” visa policy for Zhuhai residents visiting Macau may eventually be extended to other Mainland cities. This could benefit satellite casinos, allowing them to remain operational beyond 2025.

The current regulatory plan for satellite casinos is temporary. Under this plan, satellite casinos will continue to share gaming revenue with the concessionaires until the end of 2025. After 2025, however, satellite casino operators may be required to transition to management companies, which will no longer be permitted to share in gaming revenue. Instead, they would only receive a management fee.

https://agbrief.com/news/macau/04/12/2024/macau-gaming-operators-expect-regulatory-fine-tuning-for-satellite-casinos/?utm_source=Asia+Gaming+Brief&utm_campaign=21a184808a-AGB%3A+%2302040+Thursday%2C+05th+December%2C+2024&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_51950b5d21-21a184808a-%5BLIST_EMAIL_ID%5D&ct=t%28AGB%3A+%2302040+Thursday%2C+05th+December%2C+2024%29&goal=0_51950b5d21-21a184808a-%5BLIST_EMAIL_ID%5D&mc_cid=21a184808a&mc_eid=31e20475e6

nov24

The Macau government and gaming concessionaires have not yet engaged in discussions with satellite casinos about their future, despite the impending conclusion of a three-year transitional grace period next year under the new gaming law, a satellite venue operator has revealed.

Jay Chun, the co-chairman and managing director of Paradise Entertainment, stated on Tuesday that they hope such discussions can begin “soon”.

Paradise Entertainment oversees Casino Kam Pek on the Macau peninsula under the gaming licence of SJM Holdings. Satellite casinos are establishments operated under the licence of a Macau concessionaire but are managed and promoted by third parties.

“Given the change in the [Macau] government’s term, I believe these discussions will only occur after the new government takes office,” Chun remarked, referring to Sam Hou Fai, who is set to assume office as the city’s new Chief Executive on 20 December, succeeding Ho Iat Seng.

According to the new gaming law, satellite casinos will no longer be allowed to share gaming revenue with concessionaires but will instead receive a management fee. However, the law provides a three-year grace period, ending in 2025, for satellite casino operators to transition to the management company model.

Last month, legislator José Pereira Coutinho raised questions in a written inquiry to the Macau government regarding the future of satellite casinos and the potential for closures, which could affect the jobs of nearly 10,000 local workers.

At present, Macau has 30 casinos, including 11 satellite casinos, nine of which operate under SJM’s licence. Seven satellite casinos closed in 2022 due to the new gaming law and the negative impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Speaking on the sidelines of an event in Macau on Tuesday, Chun expressed optimism that satellite casinos will remain operational beyond the grace period. “We have many employees, and no one wishes for these workers to abruptly lose their jobs,” he said.

“The focus now lies on the [calculation of] management fees,” he continued. “Each [satellite] venue faces unique circumstances. I’m also not sure how these discussions will unfold.”

Meanwhile, the MGS Entertainment Show, an annual casino industry trade exhibition and conference organised by the Macau Gaming Equipment Manufacturers Association (MGEMA) since 2013, will not take place this year.

Chun, who also serves as the chairman of the MGEMA, disclosed on Tuesday that the show will continue, with further details regarding its future to be announced next year.

https://www.macaubusiness.com/no-discussions-yet-about-future-of-satellite-casinos-says-jay-chun/

nov24

Macau authorities have revised the land concession for Ponte 16, paving the way for another step in the revitalisation of Casino Macau Palace.

In a Wednesday gazette announcement, it was stated that the land where the Ponte 16 casino resort sits – about 23,066 square metres in the Inner Harbour – will undergo resizing.

A section of it, comprising two plots totaling about 4,160 square metres and three parcels totaling about 265 square metres, will be returned to the government for handling unconditionally.

The size of the land will now be composed of two parcels, one about 9,424 square metres and the other 9,217 square metres.

On top of the existing hotel, a new commercial complex will be constructed.

Other adjustments to the land concession include a premium of MOP459.86 million (US$57.44 million).

This move aims to rejuvenate Pier No. 14 and initiate the relocation of

2,084-square-metre Casino Macau Palace – an obligation SJM Holdings has taken on as part of its contract renewal requirements.

https://www.macaubusiness.com/govt-resizes-ponte-16-land-to-kick-off-casino-macau-palace-relocation/

out24

O deputado ligado à Associação de Trabalhadores da Função Pública de Macau alerta para a possibilidade de no próximo ano se assistir a uma onda de desemprego, devido à situação indefinida dos casinos-satélite

 

Com os acordos entre os casinos-satélite e as concessionárias a terminarem no final do próximo ano, o deputado Pereira Coutinho alertou o Executivo para a possibilidade de haver uma onda de desemprego. A mensagem foi deixada através de uma interpelação escrita, em que o legislador pede soluções ao Executivo.

Quando foram apresentadas as últimas alterações à lei do jogo, antes da renovação das concessões, o Governo tentou acabar com todos os casinos-satélite do território. Estes casinos têm acordos de exploração com as concessionárias, mas são geridos por empresas independentes. No entanto, os trabalhadores nas áreas de jogo estão contratualmente ligados às concessionárias, o que não acontece com trabalhadores de restaurantes, hotéis e lojas nos edifícios desses casinos.

Após várias queixas de deputados, associações e dos responsáveis por estes casinos, o Governo aceitou uma solução de meio-termo. Os casinos satélites foram autorizados a continuar a operar, mas os contratos com as concessionárias tiveram um limite de três anos, que termina no próximo ano.

“Actualmente, falta um ano para o final dos contratos de exploração dos casinos-satélite. Todavia, estima-se que muitos casinos-satélite vão cessar as operações, o que vai afectar as pequenas, médias e micro empresas e possivelmente causar uma onda de encerramentos”, alertou. “Como resultado, um grande número de residentes pode ficar desempregado. Que soluções o Governo tem para este problema?”, questionou.

Tratamentos diferentes

Na interpelação, Coutinho revela também ter recebido queixas de 300 trabalhadores de casinos-satélite que se consideram discriminados. Segundo os relatos apresentados pelo deputado, quando trabalham nos casinos-satélite, os trabalhadores tendem a ter ordenados mais baixos do que quando desempenham funções em casinos explorados pelas entidades patronais.

Além disso, privilégios como folgas e bónus também são diferentes, o que levou o deputado da Associação de Trabalhadores da Função Pública de Macau a considerar que são “trabalhadores de segunda classe”.

Na interpelação consta também que, apesar destes trabalhadores se terem queixado de discriminação à Direcção de Serviços para os Assuntos Laborais, o assunto não foi resolvido. Por isso, Coutinho pergunta ao Governo o que vai fazer para acabar com a discriminação dos trabalhadores dos casinos-satélite.

https://hojemacau.com.mo/2024/10/24/casinos-satelite-coutinho-alerta-para-possiveis-despedimentos/

set24

O deputado Leong Sun Iok pediu ao Governo para explicar se os casinos-satélite vão poder continuar a operar depois do próximo ano. O assunto foi abordado pelo legislador no âmbito do balanço dos trabalhos realizados no ano legislativo 2023/2024, tendo em conta que no final de 2025 chega ao fim o chamado “período de transição”, em que se espera que os casinos-satélites passem a ser explorados directamente pelas concessionárias.

Os casinos-satélites são explorados por entidades independentes, que têm um contrato de exploração com as concessionárias, como acontece com o casino Ponte 16 ou o casino Kam Pek.

De acordo com Leong, o Governo precisa de anunciar uma decisão, para que os trabalhadores se possam preparar para o futuro, que pode passar por procurar um novo emprego, no caso de se gerar mais uma onda de despedimentos no sector do jogo.

Em Março de 2022, quando foi discutida a lei do jogo em vigor e a polémica em torno dos casinos-satélites, devido ao receio de encerramentos forçados, o secretário para a Economia e Finanças, Lei Wai Nong, admitiu que o período poderia ser prolongado, caso se adivinhasse uma onda de despedimentos.

No balanço dos trabalhos legislativas, Ella Lei, Leong Sun Iok, Lam Lon Wai e Lei Chan U defenderam ainda que o Governo deve começar a distribuir cupões aos turistas e aos residentes que participam nos espectáculos organizados pelas concessionárias de jogo, para que haja um aumento do consumo nos bairros comunitários da cidade.

https://hojemacau.com.mo/2024/09/23/faom-pedidos-dados-sobre-o-futuro-dos-casinos-satelites/

set24

Representatives from the Macau gaming industry have raised concerns regarding the possible shutdowns of satellite casinos, citing their potential impact on local employment.

This issue arises in light of Macau’s new gaming law, which mandates that satellite venues must transition to a management company within three years, with the deadline set for the end of 2025. 

Under the current framework, management companies will not be entitled to share in gaming revenues; instead, they will only receive a management fee from the concessionaire.

In this context, concessionaires may evaluate the costs associated with maintaining satellite casinos, considering the return on investment (ROI), which may eventually lead them to decide to cease the operation of some satellite casinos.

In 2022, seven satellite casinos ceased operations in Macau, a decision made before the Legislative Assembly approved of the new gaming law bill.

On September 19th, the Chief Executive candidate Sam Hou Fai’s campaign office met with a delegation from the Macao Gaming Industry Employees Home and the Macao Gaming Practitioners Volunteers Association. The industry representatives shared insights on the post-pandemic recovery of the gaming sector and the implications of the new law.

According to the press release, during the meeting, the representatives emphasized the crucial role that satellite casinos play in employing thousands of local workers.

The representatives called for the protection of the employment rights of gaming workers and highlighted that providing paid training is vital for the industry’s sustainable development. They urged that employees receive adequate support to adapt to the changing landscape.

The challenges faced by middle-aged and older workers were also significant concerns. The representatives suggested the need for targeted employment protection measures for this demographic.

Additionally, the necessity to enhance responsible gaming measures was underscored, promoting healthy growth in the industry while ensuring the physical and mental well-being of employees.

Sam Hou Fai’s campaign office expressed gratitude for the valuable insights shared by the representatives, committing to continue gathering feedback from various sectors of society to enrich and refine their policy platform.

https://agbrief.com/news/macau/24/09/2024/association-reps-flag-concerns-over-satellite-casino-potential-shutdowns/?utm_source=Asia+Gaming+Brief&utm_campaign=998ac0c60e-AGB%3A+%2301992+Wednesday%2C+25th+September%2C+2024&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_51950b5d21-998ac0c60e-%5BLIST_EMAIL_ID%5D&ct=t%28AGB%3A+%2301992+Wednesday%2C+25th+September%2C+2024%29&goal=0_51950b5d21-998ac0c60e-%5BLIST_EMAIL_ID%5D&mc_cid=998ac0c60e&mc_eid=31e20475e6

jun24

Macau concessionaire SJM Resorts S.A. said Friday it has revised upwards the maximum amount it can pay to the operating entity of satellite casino L’Arc, and extended by three years the lease of Jai Alai from another entity, due to the steady improvement in business performance seen post-COVID.

Both entities are majority owned by Angela Leong, the Co-Chairman and Executive Director of SJM Resorts parent company SJM Holdings.

In a series of filings, SJM said it has revised upwards the annual cap payable to Leong’s wholly-owned L’Arc Entertainment for services rendered and for allowing the company use of the hotel and casino areas at the peninsula property. In both instances the cap has more than doubled, from HK$351.7 million (US$45 million) to HK$908.3 million (US$116 million) in FY24, and from HK$450.1 million (US$58 million) to HK$960 million (US$123 million) in FY25.

https://www.asgam.com/index.php/2024/06/02/macaus-sjm-resorts-expands-agreements-with-director-angela-leong-for-gaming-operations-at-larc-and-jai-alai/

may24

An offshore unit of Macau satellite casino promoter Emperor Entertainment Hotel Ltd is to acquire a 25-storey building in the Central district of Hong Kong from a connected company, for a total consideration of HKD655.2 million (US$83.9 million).

Emperor Entertainment Hotel, which promotes the Grand Emperor Hotel and casino in downtown Macau operated under SJM Holdings Ltd’s gaming licence, said in a Friday filing to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange that the deal with a unit of Emperor International Holdings Ltd was to “expand its assets portfolio within the scope of its principal business”.

It added: “Emperor Entertainment Hotel has been engaging in the provision of hospitality services in the past two decades, and currently operates a number of hotels and serviced apartments in Hong Kong and Macau.”

https://www.ggrasia.com/macau-satellite-biz-emperor-ent-in-us84mln-hk-apt-deal/

APR24 Legend

Gaming and hotel services firm Macau Legend Development Ltd reported a net loss of nearly HKD4.9 million (US$ 628,497) for full-year 2023, on revenue that rose by 26.7 percent year-on-year, to HKD901.6 million. The loss for 2023 was an improvement on the HKD607.2-million loss recorded in the prior year, according to a Thursday filing.

The company’s costs stood at HKD741.4 million in 2023, down 29.2 percent from the prior year.

The Hong Kong-listed firm has business linked to one casino in Macau – Legend Palace (pictured) – under a so-called services agreement with Macau licensee SJM Holdings Ltd. In 2022, the company was also linked to two other casinos in Macau – Landmark and Babylon.

https://www.ggrasia.com/macau-legend-narrows-annual-loss-revenue-up-27pct/

mar24 PONTE 16

The Deputy Chairman of Macau’s Ponte 16 casino-resort has told Inside Asian Gaming he expects to receive government approvals to proceed with a HK$500 million expansion and upgrade of the property “very soon”.

Speaking at the Macau After Dark event held at Sofitel at Ponte 16 on Tuesday night, Dr Hoffman Ma said the company was keen to get moving on the project, which is to include the development of a new shopping mall and enhancements to existing facilities.

It will also see the creation of a night market and potentially the renovation and relocation of Macau’s decommissioned floating casino alongside Ponte 16, likely as a bar or other non-gaming attraction.

“The most important upcoming plan will be the construction site we have next door [for the mall], Dr Ma said. “We have made our submission to the government and I believe they will be confirming issuing the permit very soon so that we can get moving.

https://www.asgam.com/index.php/2024/03/27/ponte-16-expecting-government-approvals-for-expansion-very-soon/

mar24

Macau’s Paradise Entertainment Ltd has reported a profit of HK$60.9 million (US$7.8 million) in 2023, reversing a loss of HK$166.3 million (US$21.3 million) a year earlier primarily due to the return of patrons to the peninsula casino it manages: Casino Kam Pek.

In a Tuesday filing, Paradise said the improved results came on the back of a 113% increase in group-wide revenue to HK$634.3 million (US$81.1 million) in 2023, of which HK$564.8 million (US$72.2 million) came from the provision of casino management services at Kam Pek. The casino, operated under the casino under the concession of SJM Resorts S.A, ran 24 traditional gaming tables, 10 Live Multi-Game (LMG) tables, 860 LMG terminals and 96 slot machines on average in 2023.

Revenue from the sale of electronic gaming equipment and systems, which includes the LMG set-up, increased from HK$3.5 million (US$447,000 million) in 2022 to HK$53.6 million (US$6.9 million) in 2023, although revenue from the leasing of such systems declined slightly to HK$3.24 million (US$414,000). Paradise said it sold 260 LMG terminals in 2023 compared with none the year before.

Group-wide Adjusted EBITDA of HK$162.8 million (US$20.8 million) reversed an Adjusted EBITDA a loss of HK$38.0 million (US$4.9 million) for the year ended 31 December 2022.

https://www.asgam.com/index.php/2024/03/27/macaus-paradise-entertainment-books-us7-8-million-profit-in-2023-on-casino-kam-pek-recovery/

 fev24

A long-anticipated extension to Ponte 16, a casino-hotel complex (pictured) overlooking Macau’s Inner Harbour, is likely to involve investment of “HKD500 million [US$63.9 million] to HKD600 million”, reported Hong Kong-based Chinese-language newspaper Ming Pao, citing Hoffman Ma Ho Man.

Mr Ma is deputy chairman of Hong Kong-listed Success Universe Group Ltd, an investor in Ponte 16. The Ponte 16 extension project, referred to by the company as “Phase 3”, would include a shopping mall and an open-air “plaza”, Mr Ma had mentioned to GGRAsia last year.

Macau casino concessionaire SJM Holdings Ltd supplies the gaming licence for Ponte 16, and also controls an effective 51 percent interest in Pier 16 – Property Development Ltd, the entity that operates the Ponte 16 complex. The remaining 49-percent is controlled by Success Universe.

Speaking at a Hong Kong media gathering on Tuesday, Mr Ma said the Ponte 16 Phase 3 plan had been submitted to the Macau government for approval.

https://www.ggrasia.com/ponte-16-new-phase-cost-minimum-us64mln-hoffman-ma/