“It’s understandable that the existing concessionaires, with their infrastructure currently in place and their properties arguably almost worthless if they lose the right to deal cards, are bidding for a continuation of their casino businesses. It’s the only way they have a shot at recouping the obscene losses they have accrued during the pandemic.”
—Andrew Scott, Inside Asian Gaming publisher, in a column on why Macau’s Big 6 concessionaires want to re-up for another 10 years (and Genting’s chances to upset the apple cart)
“Back when things were good, it would be almost too crowded to walk. Now, you can find maybe one or two locals passing through. I think the people of Macau are frustrated about the economy and future prospects.”
—Pinky Tam, laid-off Macau casino worker, on concerns about the city’s recovery from Covid-19
“Why would China let the Americans keep 50 percent of the gaming industry in Macau? I cannot see any good reason.”
—Ben Lee, Macau gaming consultant and founder of IGamiX, on the vulnerability of U.S.-based Wynn, Sands and MGM in the Macau license retender
“A weak yen is most effective in attracting inbound tourism.”
—Andrew Haskins, Schroders Capital, in a report on the impact of integrated resorts on Japanese tourism
“It was an extreme situation for a relatively free and open city like Macau.”
—Sulu Sou, former Macau lawmaker, on Covid-19 shutdowns in the city in July. He added that the economy emerged from the lockdown “on life support”
“In the last two to three years, Covid-19 has really put a spotlight on the need to diversify. It won’t happen overnight, it’s a slow progression.”
—Glenn McCartney, associate professor in tourism management, University of Macau, on the city’s slow road to a more resilient, less gaming-centric economy
“Even if the tribes and state can agree on internet gambling, the tribes will be in a precarious legal position until Congress updates the law or the courts provide a final interpretation.”
—Tory Jackson, a real estate attorney in North Dakota, writing about a proposed tribal state gaming compact that would give tribes exclusive rights to offer online gaming
