Daily Asia Gaming eBrief: Philippines set to shut down remaining POGOs by Jan 1st

Good morning. It is the season for new beginnings. The revocation of licenses in the for Philippines Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) officially commenced on December 15, following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive to terminate POGO operations nationwide. PAGCOR Chairman Alejandro Tengco announced that about 20 POGOs remain active, all of which must cease operations by January 1st. Meanwhile, Francis Lui has been appointed Chairman of Galaxy Entertainment Group, transitioning from his role as Deputy Chairman, following the passing of his father and company founder, Lui Che Woo. In nearby news, Morgan Stanley has warned that SJM Resorts' plan to convert an office building in Hengqin into a hotel could exacerbate the company's already high debt levels.

What you need to know

• The revocation of remaining POGO licenses in the Philippines began on December 15th, with operations to cease by January.
• SJM Resorts' decision to reconvert an Hengqin office building into a hotel risks increasing its debt levels even further, Morgan Stanley analysts warned.
• Francis Lui, the son of late gaming mogul Lui Che Woo, has been officially appointed as Chairman of Galaxy Entertainment Group.

On the radar

• The Star Gold Coast CEO resignation followed by immediate leadership search.
• China’s President Xi Jinping confirms 3-day trip to Macau.
• New South Wales launches compliance operation to prevent minors from gambling.
• China's crackdown on Macau’s illicit FX trade: over 260 syndicates dismantled.

AGB Intelligence

PHILIPPINES

POGO license revocation process is officially underway

Corporate Spotlight

Introducing Lee ‘SunBhie’ Jeong-jae: The Mastermind behind the Aurora Gaming team

Altenar brings premium sportsbook solution to Asia

Industry Updates

• BetConstruct unveils "The Center of Gravity" for ICE Barcelona 2025.
• SJM revamps Kam Pek Market into a culinary landmark in San Ma Lo.
• SOFTSWISS to present new Affilka features at iGB Affiliate Barcelona 2025.

MEMBERSHIP | INTELLIGENCE | ASEAN | CAREERS