Citigroup has again praised the effectiveness of hosting appropriate non-gaming sports and entertainment events in attracting affluent players to Macau after Galaxy Macau proved a clear standout during the investment bank’s latest Table Survey.
In a Monday note, Citi analysts George Choi and Timothy Chau observed that while a typhoon warning meant foot traffic at Macau’s casinos during Friday’s survey was lighter than usual, Galaxy Macau welcomed a “lively crowd” which Citi attributed to the “FIVB Women’s Volleyball Nations League – Finals Macao 2026” at Macau East Asian Games Dome from 22 to 26 July. Galaxy Entertainment Group was a co-organizer and major sponsor of the event, and according to Citi managed an unprecedented 43% of Macau’s premium mass volume share during the survey period.
“Knowing the popularity of the sport in China, Galaxy strategically organized numerous events around the tournament (e.g. an autograph session with Team China and other national teams),” wrote Choi and Chau.
“We would not be surprised if some good tickets were reserved for its top players. This once again suggests that well-chosen right non-gaming offerings are a powerful tool to induce the affluent Chinese to visit Macau and spend money there.”
Citi noted that total wager observed of HK$13.0 million (US$1.66 million) was up 33% compared with its June Survey although still 19% lower year-on-year – possibly due to some players postponing their Macau trips with Typhoon Noul approaching. Likewise, the number of premium mass players seen was 15% lower year-on-year at 581, implying that average wager per player fell 5%.
The top three whales spotted by Citi in its July survey were all at Galaxy Macau and included one player wagering HK$600,000 (US$76,500) at Pavilion South and two more in the Horizon Room wagering HK$440,000 (US$56,105) and HK$300,000 (US$38,350) respectively.
