Key points:
- SJM Resorts will restructure its satellite casino operations in Macau by the end of 2025, in line with updated gaming laws
- Seven satellite casinos will close; two may be acquired, pending negotiations
- The company aims to preserve local employment and reassign affected staff within its portfolio
SJM Resorts has confirmed plans to restructure its satellite casino operations in Macau by the end of 2025, in line with revised gaming laws enacted in 2022.
The regulatory changes mandate that all satellite casinos must shift from profit-sharing arrangements to direct ownership or operate under non-profit-sharing management agreements by 31 December 2025.
Currently operating nine satellite casinos in collaboration with third-party property owners, SJM has announced its intention to acquire the properties housing Casino L’Arc Macau and Casino Ponte 16. However, negotiations for these acquisitions have yet to begin, and no formal agreements are in place.
At the same time, SJM has decided not to continue operations at seven satellite properties — Casino Casa Real, Casino Emperor Palace, Casino Fortuna, Casino Grandview, Casino Kam Pek Paradise, Casino Landmark and Casino Legend Palace — once current service agreements expire at year-end.
The gaming tables and slot machines from these locations will be reallocated to SJM-owned casinos.
Good to know: SJM’s Board stated that the restructuring is not expected to have a material adverse impact on its operations, liquidity or profitability
The company emphasised its commitment to protecting local employment. All affected Macau residents, whether directly employed by SJM or through third-party operators, will be offered opportunities within the wider SJM Resorts portfolio.
Direct employees will be reassigned to similar roles, while others will be invited to apply for vacancies.
This move comes amid SJM Holdings' reported HK$7.5bn ($970m) in net revenue for Q1 2025, with improved profitability and continued performance recovery at key properties such as the Grand Lisboa Palace.
