CLAIMS TO FAME
- Has led Resorts World Manila, now Newport World Resorts, since its 2009 launch
- Long awaited Entertainment City project taking shape
The Philippine gambling industry has endured another year of controversy, with pandemic complications overtaken by scandals across the online gaming sector and the hollowing out of VIP revenue thanks to Chinese government pressure.
But Travellers’ Newport World Resorts integrated resort, now free of Genting Hong Kong’s minority ownership, has had a steady, stellar year under the circumstances, concentrating on growth across its diverse interests and good press.
Company boss Kingson Sian can expect more of the same for the foreseeable future.
Newport World Resorts is a curio in the Asian industry. Peripheral to the conception (and geography) of the high-end Entertainment City cluster of IRs, it has nonetheless flourished on the back of a loyal domestic mass market, airport proximity and a near-optimal integration of gambling, accommodation, family entertainment and F&B. Its lack of a serious VIP program has also quarantined the property from losses associated with the pandemic and Beijing’s ire.
Sian’s star is set to rise further as Travellers’ investment in the Westside City residential, commercial and recreational precinct comes to fruition, including its collaboration with rebadged Suncity Group executives in the operation of a casino hotel, due next year. Whether the poor prognosis for VIP gaming will have improved by that time, and what share of business it should take, are key questions for Sian’s team.
Sian drops down the Power 50 rankings this year only because of the inclusion of Kevin Tan, the CEO and Vice Chairman of parent firm Alliance Global Group.
For the full list of 2023 Asian Gaming Power 50 winners, click here.
