Key Findings from the July 2024 Survey
According to Choi and Cheung, the total wager observed in July 2024 surged by 34% compared to the same period last year, reaching HK$12.2 million. This increase was driven by a substantial rise of 61% in premium mass players, totaling 575 individuals. Moreover, the average wager per player also saw a notable uptick of 15% from the previous month.
Insights into Gaming Dynamics
The analysts suggest that concerns over Beijing’s crackdown on illegal fund flows may be overstated, as legitimate means for bringing funds into Macau appear robust among high-end players. They assert that most players have sufficient avenues to support significant bets, evidenced by observations of bets reaching up to HK$1 million per hand.
Player Behavior and Trends
In detailing their observations, Choi and Cheung noted a growing presence of high-stakes players in Macau’s premium gaming areas. They observed 23 players betting HK$100,000 or more in July, up from 19 in the previous year. Additionally, they highlighted a consistent trend where certain players regularly wagered HK$1 million per hand, underscoring the sustained high-stakes activity in the region.
Notable Players and Locations
The analysts provided specific examples of high-roller activity, such as a player with HK$6 million in chips betting at MGM Cotai’s high limit area. They also mentioned a HK$700,000 player at the Supreme Room of MGM Cotai and a HK$500,000 player at Wynn Palace’s Chairman Club. Interestingly, they identified Japanese players among those participating in high-stakes games at Plaza Apex.
Adoption of Smart Gaming Tables
Citibank’s report also highlighted the increasing adoption of smart gaming tables across Macau’s casinos. For instance, all 43 tables at Galaxy Macau’s Pavilion South room and all 18 tables at Sands China’s Apex Room at Plaza have been upgraded to smart tables. At The Venetian Macao, 73 out of 414 baccarat tables in the grind mass area are now smart, while Wynn has expanded its inventory to 30 smart tables out of 199 in operation at Encore.
Citibank’s insights from their July 2024 survey indicate a resilient gaming market in Macau, driven by robust demand from premium mass players and supported by the widespread adoption of smart gaming technologies. Despite concerns over regulatory impacts, the data suggests that legitimate financial channels continue to facilitate substantial wagers, contributing to the overall strength of Macau’s gaming sector.