Macau Gambling Revenue Surges 40% In August To $2 Billion
September 2, 2010 9:26 amMacau once more lived up to its reputation as the world’s largest gambling destination, after posting a growth of 40% in its casino revenue which reached a staggering $1.971 billion in August.
Macau has 34 casinos run by six main companies, of which Sociedade de Jogos de Macau (SJM) has the largest market share. Earlier this year, the casinos also added a number of high stakes baccarat tables to attract more high rollers into the casinos, and SJM has already reported a doubling in their first half high roller revenue, while Wynn Macau has reported an 80% rise over the same period.
Commenting on Macau’s August figures, Gaming Analyst Steve Schwartz said:
“With each passing month, it becomes more clear that Macau is the place to be for serious gamblers. If Las Vegas wants to reclaim their throne of being the best gaming destination, there will have to be major changes, and even then, it is unlikely they will ever again top Macau.”
Despite growth for the first eight months of 2010 now at an incredible average of 63%, August’s figure is actually the lowest this year with most others falling in the range between January’s figure of 62.5% and May’s figure of 94.1%.
However, the lower revenue figure for August was largely in line with earlier expert predictions and as industry consultant Jonathan Galaviz pointed out:
“A slight moderation in the growth momentum of Macau’s gross casino revenue would probably be a healthy thing at this point. A significant real-estate market downturn is likely in China, and its ultimate effect on Macau would be pronounced.”
Although its gambling revenue is expected to slow throughout the rest of the year, Macau will still remain way out in front of its nearest rivals.