Rising Premium Mass Bets Drive Macau’s 2025 Rebound

_{Image: Macau Skyline}

Investment bank Citigroup’s year‑end survey points to a clear engine behind Macau’s 2025 resurgence: rising premium mass play, with both more players and larger bets driving growth.

Key Takeaways: 

• Premium mass players in Macau increased by 6%, with higher bets fueling growth
• December saw an 18% rise in total wagers, boosted by entertainment events
• Industry forecasts suggest sustained momentum, with luxury amenities as key drivers

Premium Mass Players Drive Bigger Bets and Volumes

Investment bank Citigroup’s year‑end survey points to a clear engine behind Macau’s 2025 resurgence: rising premium mass play, with more players and larger bets driving growth. According to IAG, Citi’s team observed roughly 8,000 premium mass gamers, a 6% increase year‑on‑year, and an average bet per gambler that rose to HK$24,018 (about US$3,086). Citi analysts George Choi and Timothy Chau noted that both higher gaming volume and elevated betting limits showed a healthy and sound outlook for gaming in Macau.

Entertainment and Amenities Convert Footfall Into Play

December data and event programming reinforced the pattern: total observed wagers in the year‑end survey rose 18% year‑on‑year to HK$12.6 million, with Sands China taking a December premium mass share uplift attributed to a high‑profile Alan Tam concert at the Venetian Arena. 

The finding echoes earlier quarters where the mass market accounted for roughly three‑quarters of revenue, underscoring the importance of non‑gaming attractions in converting entertainment footfall into table play. 

The broader industry context reflects structural shifts that complement the growth in premium mass play. With Macau’s final satellite casino, Casino Landmark, closing as part of the three‑year transition to integrated resorts

Looking ahead, industry forecasts and bank notes point to sustained momentum. UBS has lifted its 2026 GGR outlook on “firm premium demand” and operator reinvestment, while quarterly government and market data show the mass segment remains the backbone of recovery despite modest headline growth rates.