Premium Mass Gaming Hits Record High During Chinese New Year Surge
High-spending visitors from mainland China pushed Macau’s premium mass segment to new peaks over the 2026 Chinese New Year.
Key Takeaways:
- Mainland Chinese visitors drive peak spending in Macau’s premium mass segment
- All-time high average wager per player reaches HK$29,625, up 13%
- Operators expand offerings to cater to high-stakes and mid-tier players
Citigroup’s table survey showed an all-time high average wager per player of HK$29,625, up 13% from 2025.
Total observed wagers rose 17% to HK$24.4 million while the number of premium mass players ticked up 3% to 824, underscoring stronger spend per head rather than a surge in volumes, per Asia Gaming Brief.
January’s earlier performance had been described as surprising as average wagers climbed sharply month-on-month.
According to GGR Asia, the survey’s “Whale Watch” noted 53 high-stakes bettors contributing HK$11.3 million in combined wagers, with several single-room bets above HK$700,000 at major operators.
Melco Resorts & Entertainment emerged as the leader in observed premium-mass share at 25%, up markedly from 13% a year earlier, with Galaxy Entertainment up 23%.
Recent results from Studio City further underline this shift toward mass-market resilience. The property narrowed its 2025 losses on the back of improving mass-market performance.
Premium Mass Gaming Momentum Supports Operator Outlook
Analysts also recorded a modest increase in average baccarat minimums, signaling recovery in the grind-mass tier.
Citigroup projects February GGR at MOP20 billion and expects January–February combined growth of about 12% year‑on‑year, citing renewed strength in luxury retail and new brand openings at integrated resorts as complementary demand drivers.
Operators are also repositioning floor offerings: SJM’s Grand Lisboa Palace has added 24 low-limit baccarat tables, including three with HK$300 minimums, widening access for mid-tier patrons.
