News
Galaxy Entertainment Group Announces Q4 & Annual Results 2018
Reading Time: 15 minutes
Full Year Adjusted EBITDA of $16.9 Billion, Up 19% YoY
Q4 Adjusted EBITDA of $4.3 Billion, Up 4% YoY & Up 12% QoQ
Announced Another Special Dividend of $0.45 Per Share
Galaxy Entertainment Group today reported results for the three months and twelve months periods ended 31 December 2018. (All amounts are expressed in HKD unless otherwise stated)
Q4 & FULL YEAR 2018 RESULTS HIGHLIGHTS
GEG : Delivered Solid Performance, Proceeding On A $1.5 Billion Property Enhancement Program For Galaxy Macau
And StarWorld Macau
- Full Year Group Net Revenue* of $55.2 billion, up 14% year-on-year
- Full Year Group Adjusted EBITDA of $16.9 billion, up 19% year-on-year
- Full Year net profit attributable to shareholders (“NPAS”) of $13.5 billion, an increase of 29% year-on-year including $0.6 billion of non-recurring charges
- Full year Adjusted NPAS of $14.1 billion, up 28% year-on-year after adjusting for non-recurring charges
- Q4 Group Net Revenue* of $14.2 billion, up 2% year-on-year and up 9% quarter-on-quarter
- Q4 Group Adjusted EBITDA of $4.3 billion, up 4% year-on-year, up 12% quarter-on-quarter
- Played lucky in Q4 which increased Adjusted EBITDA by approximately $77 million, normalized Q4 Adjusted EBITDA of $4.3 billion, up 4% year-on-year and up 1% quarter-on-quarter
Galaxy Macau
: Continued Solid Performance Driven By Mass And Non-gaming
- Full Year Net Revenue* of $39.5 billion, up 14% year-on-year
- Full Year Adjusted EBITDA of $12.9 billion, up 16% year-on-year
- Q4 Net Revenue* of $10.4 billion, up 2% year-on-year and up 11% quarter-on-quarter
- Q4 Adjusted EBITDA of $3.4 billion, up 2% year-on-year and up 16% quarter-on-quarter
- Played lucky in Q4 which increased Adjusted EBITDA by approximately $191 million, normalized Q4 Adjusted EBITDA of $3.2 billion, up 1% year-on-year and down 1% quarter-on-quarter
- Hotel occupancy for Q4 across the five hotels was virtually 100%
StarWorld Macau: Continued Solid Performance Driven By Mass
- Full Year Net Revenue* of $12.2 billion, up 18% year-on-year
- Full Year Adjusted EBITDA of $3.8 billion, up 28% year-on-year
- Q4 Net Revenue* of $3.0 billion, up 12% year-on-year and up 2% quarter-on-quarter
- Q4 Adjusted EBITDA of $893 million, up 19% year-on-year and down 4% quarter-on-quarter
- Played unlucky in Q4 which decreased Adjusted EBITDA by approximately $115 million, normalized Q4 Adjusted EBITDA of $1.0 billion, up 18% year-on-year and up 8% quarter-on-quarter
- Hotel occupancy for Q4 was virtually 100%
Broadway Macau
: A Unique Family Friendly Resort, Strongly Supported By Macau SMEs
- Full Year Net Revenue* of $562 million, up 9% year-on-year
- Full Year Adjusted EBITDA of $32 million versus $10 million in FY 2017
- Q4 Net Revenue* of $144 million, down 1% year-on-year and down 1% quarter-on-quarter
- Q4 Adjusted EBITDA of $8 million versus $7 million in Q4 2017 and $9 million in Q3 2018
- Played lucky in Q4 which increased Adjusted EBITDA by approximately $1 million, normalized Q4 Adjusted EBITDA of $7 million versus $3 million in Q4 2017 and $13 million in Q3 2018
- Hotel occupancy for Q4 was 98%
Balance Sheet: Healthy Balance Sheet
- Cash and liquid investments was $45.8 billion and net cash was $37.0 billion as at 31 Dec 2018
- Debt of $8.8 billion as of 31 Dec 2018 primary reflects ongoing yield management initiative
- Paid two special dividends: $0.41 per share on 27 April 2018 and $0.50 per share on 26 October 2018
- Announced another special dividend of $0.45 per share payable on or about 26 April 2019
Development Update: Continuing to Pursue Development Opportunities
- Cotai Phases 3 & 4 — Continue to move forward with Phases 3 & 4, with a strong focus on non-gaming, primarily targeting MICE, entertainment, family facilities and also including gaming
- Hengqin — Plans moving forward to develop a low-density integrated resort to complement our high-energy entertainment resorts in Macau
- International — Continuously exploring opportunities in overseas markets, including Japan
|
*Net Revenue is calculated in accordance with the new accounting standard and the Net Revenue in Q4 and full year 2017 is restated for comparison. |
Dr. Lui Che Woo, Chairman of GEG said:
“I am pleased to provide an updated on our financial results for Q4 and full year 2018. At GEG, we continue to drive every segment of the business with a particular focus on the mass business and continue to allocate resources to their most efficient use. Our efforts are reflected in full year Adjusted EBITDA of $16.9 billion. This was despite continuing competitive openings in both Macau and regionally and a number of geo-political and economic issues that impacted consumer sentiments. Our cash and liquid investments were $45.8 billion and net cash was $37.0 billion.
During the year, we purchased a minority equity stake of approximately 4.9% of Wynn Resorts.
We are pleased to announce another special dividend of $0.45 per share to be paid on or about 26 April 2019. Additionally, the Group paid two special dividends of $0.41 and $0.50 per share in 2018. The Group will continue to focus on both our Macau development plans and international expansion ambitions.
During 2018, Macau experienced another strong typhoon in September which resulted for the first time in the closure of casinos for a modest period of time. Due to the careful planning by the Macau government, damage to Macau and properties was minimal and there were only minor personal injuries but more importantly there were no fatalities.
Finally, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to all of our committed team members whom without their commitment we would not have been able to achieve these solid financial results. Our team members continue to deliver exceptional customer experiences and ‘World Class, Asian Heart’ service each and every day.”
Macau Market Overview
Investor sentiment throughout 2018 experienced periods of volatility. This was a result of a number of geo-political and economic issues such as global trade tensions, the slowing Chinese economy, rising interest rates, currency fluctuations and also the introduction of smoking restrictions, to name a few. Despite the above, GGR for full year 2018 was $294.0 billion, up 14% year-on-year. Quarterly GGR in Q4 2018 was $76.5 billion, up 9% year-on-year and up 7% quarter-on-quarter.
In 2018, visitor arrivals to Macau were 35.8 million, up 10% year-on-year, in which visitors from Mainland China grew at a faster rate of 14% year-on-year. Overnight visitors accounted for 52% of total visitation. The average length of stay for overnight visitors increased 0.1 day year-on-year to 2.2 days. The visitation growth in 2018 was also assisted by the improvements in infrastructure, including the opening of the Hong Kong–Shenzhen–Guangzhou high speed train, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge and further relaxation of visas for Mainland Chinese to enter Macau.
Summary of Accounting Changes During 2018
In accordance with the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (HKICPA), GEG adopted a new accounting standard in reporting revenue from gaming operation beginning from 1 January 2018. GEG’s first mandatory full year reporting period is the twelve months period ended 31 December 2018. The main changes due to this reporting standard are that commission and incentives are to be deducted from the net wins from gaming operation to arrive at the net gaming revenue. In addition, GEG now also reports all complimentary provided to gaming customers at market rate. The comparative figures of revenue in 2017 have been restated to conform with the current period’s presentation.
In summary the impact of these accounting changes will be lower reported gaming revenue, an increased Adjusted EBITDA margin, and an increase in non-gaming revenue such as hotels and F&B. There will be no change in the Adjusted EBITDA or NPAS.
Group Financial Results
Full Year 2018
The Group posted net revenue of $55.2 billion, up 14% year-on-year, and generating Adjusted EBITDA of $16.9 billion, up 19% year-on-year in 2018. Net profit attributable to shareholders was $13.5 billion, up 29% year-on-year. Galaxy Macau
’s Adjusted EBITDA was $12.9 billion, up 16% year-on-year. StarWorld Macau’s Adjusted EBITDA was $3.8 billion, up 28% year-on-year. Broadway Macau
’s Adjusted EBITDA was $32 million versus $10 million in 2017.
GEG experienced bad luck in its gaming operation during 2018, which decreased its Adjusted EBITDA by approximately $484 million. Normalized 2018 Adjusted EBITDA grew 22% year-on-year to $17.3 billion.
The Group’s total GGR on a management basis[1] in 2018 was $67.2 billion, up 16% year-on-year. Total mass table GGR was $27.5 billion, up 14% year-on-year. Total VIP GGR was $37.3 billion, up 18% year-on-year. Total electronic GGR was $2.5 billion, up 15% year-on-year.
|
Group Key Financial Data |
||
|
FY2017 (Restated) |
FY2018 |
|
|
Revenues: (HK$’m) |
||
|
Net Gaming |
40,624 |
47,025 |
|
Non-gaming |
4,949 |
5,298 |
|
Construction Materials |
3,067 |
2,888 |
|
Total Net Revenue[2] |
48,640 |
55,211 |
|
Adjusted EBITDA |
14,147 |
16,857 |
|
Gaming Statistics[3] (HK$’m) |
||
|
FY2017 |
FY2018 |
|
|
Rolling Chip Volume |
912,147 |
1,103,107 |
|
Win Rate % |
3.5% |
3.4% |
|
Win |
31,600 |
37,250 |
|
Mass Table Drop[4] |
100,252 |
119,657 |
|
Win Rate % |
24.1% |
23.0% |
|
Win |
24,208 |
27,487 |
|
Electronic Gaming Volume |
61,847 |
72,461 |
|
Win Rate % |
3.5% |
3.4% |
|
Win |
2,161 |
2,476 |
|
Total GGR Win[5] |
57,969 |
67,213 |
Balance Sheet and Special Dividends
As of 31 December 2018, cash and liquid investments were $45.8 billion and net cash was $37.0 billion. Total debt was $8.8 billion as at 31 December 2018, this was due solely to an ongoing treasury management exercise where interest income on cash holdings exceeds corresponding borrowing costs. Our balance sheet combined with cash flow from operations allows us to return capital to shareholders via dividends and to fund both our Macau development pipeline and international expansion ambitions.
In 2018, GEG returned capital to shareholders by paying two special dividends of $0.41 per share and $0.50 per share on 27 April 2018 and 26 October 2018, respectively. The Group announced another special dividend of $0.45 per share to be paid on or about 26 April 2019.
Q4 2018
During Q4 2018, the Group’s net revenue increased 2% year-on-year and increased 9% quarter-on-quarter to $14.2 billion. Adjusted EBITDA increased 4% year-on-year and increased 12% quarter-on-quarter to $4.3 billion. Galaxy Macau
’s Adjusted EBITDA increased 2% year-on-year and increased 16% quarter-on-quarter to $3.4 billion. StarWorld Macau’s Adjusted EBITDA increased 19% year-on-year and decreased 4% quarter-on-quarter to $893 million. Broadway Macau
’s Adjusted EBITDA was $8 million versus $9 million in Q3 2018 and $7 million in Q4 2017.
During Q4 2018, GEG played lucky in its gaming operations which increased Adjusted EBITDA by approximately $77 million. Normalized Q4 2018 Adjusted EBITDA grew 4% year-on-year and increased 1% quarter-on-quarter to $4.3 billion.
The Group’s total GGR on a management basis[6] in Q4 2018 was $17.0 billion, up 2% year-on-year and up 8% quarter-on-quarter. Total mass table GGR was $7.3 billion, up 10% year-on-year and up 11% quarter-on-quarter. Total VIP GGR was $9.0 billion, down 5% year-on-year and up 5% quarter-on-quarter. Total electronic GGR was $681 million, up 24% year-on-year and up 10% quarter-on-quarter.
|
Group Key Financial Data |
|||||
|
(HK$’m) |
|||||
|
Q4 2017 |
Q3 2018 |
Q4 2018 |
FY2017 |
FY2018 |
|
|
Revenues: |
|||||
|
Net Gaming |
11,630 |
11,068 |
12,138 |
40,624 |
47,025 |
|
Non-gaming |
1,319 |
1,358 |
1,369 |
4,949 |
5,298 |
|
Construction Materials |
921 |
569 |
651 |
3,067 |
2,888 |
|
Total Net Revenue[7] |
13,870 |
12,995 |
14,158 |
48,640 |
55,211 |
|
Adjusted EBITDA |
4,159 |
3,879 |
4,333 |
14,147 |
16,857 |
|
Gaming Statistics[8] |
|||||
|
(HK$’m) |
|||||
|
Q4 2017 |
Q3 2018 |
Q4 2018 |
FY2017 |
FY2018 |
|
|
Rolling Chip Volume |
280,698 |
264,491 |
260,505 |
912,147 |
1,103,107 |
|
Win Rate % |
3.4% |
3.3% |
3.5% |
3.5% |
3.4% |
|
Win |
9,481 |
8,604 |
9,034 |
31,600 |
37,250 |
|
Mass Table Drop[9] |
27,375 |
29,923 |
31,571 |
100,252 |
119,657 |
|
Win Rate % |
24.3% |
22.1% |
23.2% |
24.1% |
23.0% |
|
Win |
6,655 |
6,609 |
7,328 |
24,208 |
27,487 |
|
Electronic Gaming Volume |
15,936 |
18,202 |
18,191 |
61,847 |
72,461 |
|
Win Rate % |
3.5% |
3.4% |
3.7% |
3.5% |
3.4% |
|
Win |
551 |
621 |
681 |
2,161 |
2,476 |
|
Total GGR Win |
16,687 |
15,834 |
17,043 |
57,969 |
67,213 |
Galaxy Macau
Galaxy Macau
is the primary contributor to Group revenue and earnings. Net revenue in the year was up 14% year-on-year to $39.5 billion. Adjusted EBITDA was up 16% year-on-year to $12.9 billion. Adjusted EBITDA margin under HKFRS was 33% (2017: 32%).
Galaxy Macau
experienced bad luck in its gaming operations which decreased its Adjusted EBITDA by approximately $434 million in 2018. Normalized 2018 Adjusted EBITDA grew 19% year-on-year to $13.3 billion.
In Q4 2018, Galaxy Macau
’s net revenue was $10.4 billion, up 2% year-on-year and up 11% quarter-on-quarter. Adjusted EBITDA was $3.4 billion, up 2% year-on-year and up 16% quarter-on-quarter. Adjusted EBITDA margin under HKFRS was 33% (Q4 2017: 33%).
Galaxy Macau
played lucky in its gaming operations which increased its Adjusted EBITDA by approximately $191 million in Q4 2018. Normalized Q4 Adjusted EBITDA was $3.2 billion, up 1% year-on-year and down 1% quarter-on-quarter.
The combined five hotels registered strong occupancy was virtually 100% for both the full year and Q4.
|
Galaxy Macau |
|||||
|
(HK$’m) |
|||||
|
Q4 2017 |
Q3 2018 |
Q4 2018 |
FY2017 |
FY2018 |
|
|
Revenues: |
|||||
|
Net Gaming |
9,001 |
8,181 |
9,201 |
30,500 |
34,983 |
|
Hotel / F&B / Others |
864 |
888 |
858 |
3,279 |
3,385 |
|
Mall |
250 |
268 |
302 |
906 |
1,123 |
|
Total Net Revenue[10] |
10,115 |
9,337 |
10,361 |
34,685 |
39,491 |
|
Adjusted EBITDA |
3,357 |
2,957 |
3,433 |
11,130 |
12,871 |
|
Adjusted EBITDA Margin % |
33% |
32% |
33% |
32% |
33% |
|
Gaming Statistics[11] |
|||||
|
(HK$’m) |
|||||
|
Q4 2017 |
Q3 2018 |
Q4 2018 |
FY2017 |
FY2018 |
|
|
Rolling Chip Volume |
191,995 |
189,607 |
172,378 |
621,525 |
775,429 |
|
Win Rate % |
3.8% |
3.4% |
3.8% |
3.7% |
3.5% |
|
Win |
7,263 |
6,354 |
6,612 |
23,060 |
27,423 |
|
Mass Table Drop[12] |
16,135 |
17,650 |
18,593 |
59,041 |
70,286 |
|
Win Rate % |
29.0% |
25.1% |
27.8% |
28.2% |
26.7% |
|
Win |
4,682 |
4,434 |
5,178 |
16,664 |
18,746 |
|
Electronic Gaming Volume |
11,782 |
13,026 |
12,851 |
46,062 |
52,778 |
|
Win Rate % |
4.0% |
4.0% |
4.5% |
4.0% |
3.9% |
|
Win |
467 |
527 |
573 |
1,842 |
2,082 |
|
Total GGR Win |
12,412 |
11,315 |
12,363 |
41,566 |
48,251 |
Key Financial DataStarWorld Macau
StarWorld Macau’s net revenue in the year was up 18% year-on-year to $12.2 billion. Adjusted EBITDA was up 28% year-on-year to $3.8 billion. Adjusted EBITDA margin under HKFRS increased to 31% (2017: 29%).
StarWorld Macau experienced bad luck in its gaming operations which decreased its Adjusted EBITDA by approximately $48 million in 2018. Normalized 2018 Adjusted EBITDA grew 30% year-on-year to $3.9 billion.
In Q4 2018, StarWorld Macau’s net revenue was $3.0 billion, up 12% year-on-year and up 2% quarter-on-quarter. Adjusted EBITDA was $893 million, up 19% year-on-year and down 4% quarter-on-quarter. Adjusted EBITDA margin under HKFRS increased to 30% (Q4 2017: 28%).
StarWorld Macau played unlucky in its gaming operations which decreased its Adjusted EBITDA by approximately $115 million in Q4 2018. Normalized Q4 Adjusted EBITDA was $1.0 billion, up 18% year-on-year and up 8% quarter-on-quarter.
Hotel occupancy was virtually 100% for both the full year and Q4.
|
StarWorld Macau Key Financial Data |
|||||
|
(HK$’m) |
|||||
|
Q4 2017 |
Q3 2018 |
Q4 2018 |
FY2017 |
FY2018 |
|
|
Revenues: |
|||||
|
Net Gaming |
2,524 |
2,794 |
2,839 |
9,758 |
11,659 |
|
Hotel / F&B / Others |
122 |
110 |
121 |
461 |
449 |
|
Mall |
13 |
12 |
13 |
48 |
51 |
|
Total Net Revenue[13] |
2,659 |
2,916 |
2,973 |
10,267 |
12,159 |
|
Adjusted EBITDA |
751 |
927 |
893 |
2,966 |
3,810 |
|
Adjusted EBITDA Margin % |
28% |
32% |
30% |
29% |
31% |
|
Gaming Statistics[14] |
|||||
|
(HK$’m) |
|||||
|
Q4 2017 |
Q3 2018 |
Q4 2018 |
FY2017 |
FY2018 |
|
|
Rolling Chip Volume |
85,920 |
73,750 |
87,317 |
278,575 |
323,063 |
|
Win Rate % |
2.5% |
3.0% |
2.7% |
2.9% |
3.0% |
|
Win |
2,116 |
2,191 |
2,386 |
8,213 |
9,654 |
|
Mass Table Drop[15] |
8,201 |
9,062 |
9,620 |
29,509 |
36,375 |
|
Win Rate % |
17.9% |
18.5% |
16.9% |
19.0% |
18.5% |
|
Win |
1,467 |
1,680 |
1,630 |
5,609 |
6,723 |
|
Electronic Gaming Volume |
1,640 |
1,945 |
2,010 |
6,472 |
7,585 |
|
Win Rate % |
2.1% |
2.1% |
2.1% |
2.3% |
2.3% |
|
Win |
35 |
41 |
42 |
146 |
172 |
|
Total GGR Win |
3,618 |
3,912 |
4,058 |
13,968 |
16,549 |
Broadway Macau
Broadway Macau
is a unique family friendly, street entertainment and food resort supported by Macau SMEs, it does not have a VIP gaming component. The property’s net revenue in 2018 was up 9% year-on-year to $562 million. Adjusted EBITDA was $32 million for 2018 versus $10 million in 2017. Adjusted EBITDA margin for 2018 calculated under HKFRS was 6% (2017: 2%).
Broadway Macau
experienced bad luck in its gaming operations which decreased its Adjusted EBITDA by approximately $2 million in 2018. Normalized 2018 Adjusted EBITDA was $34 million versus $12 million in 2017.
In Q4 2018, Broadway Macau
’s net revenue was $144 million, down 1% year-on-year and down 1% quarter-on-quarter. Adjusted EBITDA was $8 million, versus $7 million in prior year and $9 million in Q3 2018. Adjusted EBITDA margin under HKFRS increased to 6% (Q4 2017: 5%).
Broadway Macau
played lucky in its gaming operations which increased its Adjusted EBITDA by approximately $1 million in Q4 2018. Normalized Q4 Adjusted EBITDA was $7 million, versus $3 million in prior year and $13 million in Q3 2018. Hotel occupancy was 97% for the full year and 98% in Q4.
|
Broadway Macau |
|||||
|
(HK$’m) |
|||||
|
Q4 2017 |
Q3 2018 |
Q4 2018 |
FY2017 |
FY2018 |
|
|
Revenues: |
|||||
|
Net Gaming |
75 |
65 |
69 |
258 |
272 |
|
Hotel / F&B / Others |
60 |
69 |
63 |
216 |
246 |
|
Mall |
11 |
11 |
12 |
40 |
44 |
|
Total Net Revenue[16] |
146 |
145 |
144 |
514 |
562 |
|
Adjusted EBITDA |
7 |
9 |
8 |
10 |
32 |
|
Adjusted EBITDA Margin % |
5% |
6% |
6% |
2% |
6% |
|
Gaming Statistics[17] |
|||||
|
(HK$’m) |
|||||
|
Q4 2017 |
Q3 2018 |
Q4 2018 |
FY2017 |
FY2018 |
|
|
Mass Table Drop[18] |
377 |
368 |
346 |
1,456 |
1,404 |
|
Win Rate % |
19.7% |
16.9% |
18.9% |
18.0% |
18.4% |
|
Win |
75 |
62 |
65 |
262 |
259 |
|
Electronic Gaming Volume |
327 |
509 |
574 |
1,019 |
2,008 |
|
Win Rate % |
2.7% |
2.1% |
2.3% |
3.0% |
2.3% |
|
Win |
9 |
11 |
13 |
31 |
46 |
|
Total GGR Win |
84 |
73 |
78 |
293 |
305 |
Key Financial DataCity Clubs
City Clubs contributed $111 million of Adjusted EBITDA to the Group’s earnings for 2018 versus $107 million in 2017. Q4 2018 Adjusted EBITDA was $29 million, flat year-on-year, up 4% quarter-on-quarter.
|
City Clubs Key Financial Data |
|||||
|
(HK$’m) |
Q4 2017 |
Q3 2018 |
Q4 2018 |
FY2017 |
FY2018 |
|
Adjusted EBITDA |
29 |
28 |
29 |
107 |
111 |
|
Gaming Statistics[19] |
|||||
|
(HK$’m) |
|||||
|
Q4 2017 |
Q3 2018 |
Q4 2018 |
FY2017 |
FY2018 |
|
|
Rolling Chip Volume |
2,783 |
1,134 |
810 |
12,047 |
4,615 |
|
Win Rate % |
3.7% |
5.2% |
4.4% |
2.7% |
3.7% |
|
Win |
102 |
59 |
36 |
327 |
173 |
|
Mass Table Drop[20] |
2,662 |
2,843 |
3,012 |
10,246 |
11,592 |
|
Win Rate % |
16.2% |
15.2% |
15.1% |
16.3% |
15.2% |
|
Win |
431 |
432 |
455 |
1,673 |
1,759 |
|
Electronic Gaming Volume |
2,178 |
2,722 |
2,756 |
8,294 |
10,090 |
|
Win Rate % |
1.8% |
1.6% |
1.9% |
1.7% |
1.7% |
|
Win |
40 |
42 |
53 |
142 |
176 |
|
Total GGR Win |
573 |
533 |
544 |
2,142 |
2,108 |
Construction Materials Division
The Construction Materials Division contributed Adjusted EBITDA of $940 million in 2018, up 26% year-on-year. Q4 2018 Adjusted EBITDA was $205 million, down 13% year-on-year and up 4% quarter-on-quarter.
Development Update
Galaxy Macau
and StarWorld Macau
To maintain our attractiveness, we are proceeding on a $1.5 billion property enhancement program for Galaxy Macau
and StarWorld Macau. This program not only enhances our attractiveness, but also includes preparation work for the effective future integration and connectivity of Phases 3 & 4.
Cotai — The Next Chapter
GEG is uniquely positioned for long term growth. We continue to move forward with Phases 3 & 4, which will include approximately 4,500 hotel rooms, including family and premium high end rooms, 400,000 square feet of MICE space, a 500,000 square feet 16,000-seat multi-purpose arena, F&B, retail and casinos, among others. We look forward to formally announcing our development plans in the future.
Hengqin
We continue to make progress with our concept plan for our Hengqin project. Hengqin will allow GEG to develop a low density leisure destination resort that will complement our high energy resorts in Macau.
International
On 20 July 2018 the Japanese Diet passed the Integrated Resort (“IR”) Bill. We are very pleased with the recent passing of the IR Bill in Japan. We view Japan as a great long term growth opportunity that will complement our Macau operations and our other international expansion ambitions. GEG, together with Monte-Carlo SBM from the Principality of Monacoand our Japanese partners, look forward to bringing our brand of World Class IRs to Japan.
Selected Major Awards in 2018
|
Award |
Presenter |
|
GEG |
|
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Asiamoney Asia’s Outstanding Companies Poll – Most Outstanding |
Asiamoney |
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Most Honored Company Best Investor Relations Program (Overall) — First Place Best Corporate Governance (Overall) — First Place Best ESG SRI Metrics (Overall) — First Place Best Analyst Day (Overall) — First Place |
Institutional Investor Magazine — 2018 All |
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Sina 2018 Golden Lion Awards — Best Listed Companies |
Sina |
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Best IR Company (Large Cap) |
Hong Kong Investor Relations Association |
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Top 100 Hong Kong Listed Companies Award — Comprehensive |
QQ.com x Finet |
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Outstanding Corporate Social Responsibility Award |
Mirror Post |
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Galaxy MacauTM |
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Integrated Resort of the Year |
11th International Gaming Awards |
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World’s Leading Casino Resort 2018 Asia’s Leading Casino Resort 2018 |
The 25th World Travel Awards |
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Best Hospitality & Gaming Company 2018 |
APAC Hong Kong Business Awards 2018 |
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Best Integrated Resort Award Best Gaming Floor Award |
G2E Asia Awards |
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StarWorld Macau |
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The Supreme Award of Asia’s Best F&B Service Hotel |
The 18th Golden Horse Awards of China |
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Top Ten Charm City Hotels |
The 13th International Hotel Platinum Award |
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Broadway MacauTM |
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Business Awards of Macau 2018 – Excellence Award for Environmental |
Macau Business Magazine |
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Construction Materials Division |
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Caring Company Scheme — 15 Years Plus Caring Company Logo |
The Hong Kong Council of Social Service |
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Grand Award-Excellence in Environmental Disclosure |
Hong Kong ESG Reporting Awards |
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Hong Kong Green Organization Certification — Wastewi$e Certificate — |
Environmental Campaign Committee |
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17th Hong Kong OSH Award — Safety Performance Award – Other Industries — Safety Management System Award – Other Industries |
Occupational Safety and Health Council |
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Sustainable Consumption Award Scheme — Certificate of Excellence — |
Business Environment Council |
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Green Office Award Labeling Scheme — Certificate of Recognition Green Office and Eco — Healthy Workplace Awards Labeling Scheme – |
World Green Organization |
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Social Capital Builder Logo Award |
Labour and Welfare Bureau — Community |
Outlook
In 2019, we will continue to focus on driving every segment of our business with a particular focus on the mass segment and we will continue to allocate resources to their highest and best use.
Our healthy balance sheet combined with our strong cash flow allows us to return capital to shareholders through special dividends and fund both our Macau development pipeline and international expansion opportunities. These include Cotai Phases 3 & 4, Hengqin and Japan.
Mainland China has significant demand for leisure, tourism and travel. GEG is uniquely positioned to capitalize on future growth potential having the largest development pipeline in Macau with Phases 3 & 4.
In addition, we believe the Greater Bay Area integration plan will further facilitate the flow of people, logistics and capital within Macau, Hong Kong and the nine cities of southern Guangdong. GEG will continue to support and leverage on the plan by enhancing the competitiveness of our resort portfolio, including our development plans on Hengqin.
We also look forward to the continued improvements in infrastructure. The opening of the Hong Kong–Shenzhen–Guangzhou high speed train and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge in 2018 will further enhance the appeal and accessibility to Macau for both Chinese and international visitors. In addition, the expected opening of the Light Rail Transport (LRT) in Taipa in the second half of 2019 will also help to enhance the ease of travel within Macau.
The recent developments in the United States and China trade discussions are certainly cause for optimism, having said that we expect to continue to experience geo-political and economic challenges that may have an impact on consumer confidence in 2019.
We remain confident in the longer term outlook for Macau in general, and GEG specifically. We look forward to celebrating the 20th anniversary of Macau’s handover to China and continue to support the Central Government’s Greater Bay Area Initiative. GEG is committed to invest in Macau’s economic diversification and support the Macau Government’s vision of becoming a World Centre of Tourism and Leisure.
About Galaxy Entertainment Group
Galaxy Entertainment Group (“GEG” or the “Group”) is one of the world’s leading resorts, hospitality and gaming companies. It primarily develops and operates a large portfolio of integrated resort, retail, dining, hotel and gaming facilities in Macau. The Group is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and is a constituent stock of the Hang Seng Index.
GEG is one of the three original concessionaires in Macau with a successful track record of delivering innovative, spectacular and award-winning properties, products and services, underpinned by a “World Class, Asian Heart” service philosophy, that has enabled it to consistently outperform and lead the market in Macau.
GEG operates three flagship destinations in Macau: on Cotai, Galaxy Macau
, one of the world’s largest integrated destination resorts, and the adjoining Broadway Macau
, a unique landmark entertainment and food street destination; and on the Peninsula, StarWorld Macau, an award winning premium property.
The Group has the largest undeveloped landbank of any concessionaire in Macau. When The Next Chapter of its Cotai development is completed, GEG’s resorts footprint on Cotai will double to more than 2 million square meters, making the resorts, entertainment and MICE precinct one of the largest and most diverse integrated destinations in the world. GEG is also planning to develop a world class leisure and recreation destination resort on a 2.7 square kilometer land parcel on Hengqin adjacent to Macau. This resort will complement GEG’s offerings in Macau, and at the same time differentiate it from its peers while supporting Macau in its vision of becoming a World Centre of Tourism and Leisure.
In July 2015, GEG made a strategic investment in Société Anonyme des Bains de Mer et du Cercle des Etrangers à Monaco (“Monte-Carlo SBM”), a world renowned owner and operator of iconic luxury hotels and resorts in the Principality of Monaco. GEG continues to explore a range of international development opportunities with Monte-Carlo SBM including Japan.
GEG is committed to delivering world class unique experiences to its guests and building a sustainable future for the communities in which it operates.
For more information about the Group, please visit www.galaxyentertainment.com
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[1] The primary difference between statutory gross revenue and management basis gross revenue is the treatment of City Clubs revenue where fee income is reported on a statutory basis and gross gaming revenue is reported on a management basis. At the group level the gaming statistics include Company owned resorts plus City Clubs. |
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[2] Total net revenue is reported under the new accounting standard and the corresponding figures for past periods are restated. |
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[3] Gaming statistics are presented before deducting commission and incentives. |
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[4] Mass table drop includes the amount of table drop plus cash chips purchased at the cage. |
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[5] Total GGR win includes gaming win from City Clubs. |
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[6] The primary difference between statutory gross revenue and management basis gross revenue is the treatment of City Clubs revenue where fee income is reported on a statutory basis and gross gaming revenue is reported on a management basis. At the group level the gaming statistics include Company owned resorts plus City Clubs. |
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[7] Total net revenue is reported under the new accounting standard and the corresponding figures for past periods are restated. |
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[8] Gaming statistics are presented before deducting commission and incentives. |
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[9] Mass table drop includes the amount of table drop plus cash chips purchased at the cage. |
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[10] Total net revenue is reported under the new accounting standard and the corresponding figures for past periods are restated. |
|
[11] Gaming statistics are presented before deducting commission and incentives. |
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[12] Mass table drop includes the amount of table drop plus cash chips purchased at the cage. |
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[13] Total net revenue is reported under the new accounting standard and the corresponding figures for past periods are restated. |
|
[14] Gaming statistics are presented before deducting commission and incentives. |
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[15] Mass table drop includes the amount of table drop plus cash chips purchased at the cage. |
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[16] Total net revenue is reported under the new accounting standard and the corresponding figures for past periods are restated. |
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[17] Gaming statistics are presented before deducting commission and incentives. |
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[18] Mass table drop includes the amount of table drop plus cash chips purchased at the cage. |
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[19] Gaming statistics are presented before deducting commission and incentives. |
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[20] Mass table drop includes the amount of table drop plus cash chips purchased at the cage. |
Source: Galaxy Entertainment Group Limited
Source: European Gaming Media
This is a Syndicated News piece. Photo credits or photo sources can be found on the source article: Galaxy Entertainment Group Announces Q4 & Annual Results 2018
The iGaming industry is advancing at breakneck speed, driven by technological innovation and evolving player expectations. Itai Zak, Executive Director of iGaming at Digicode, emphasizes the importance of bridging client aspirations with customized business solutions. Key trends shaping the future of iGaming include live dealer games, blockchain integration, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), enhanced personalization, and shifting regulatory environments. Let’s delve into how these trends influence the industry, presenting new opportunities while paving the way for future growth.
A Closer Look at Emerging Trends
- Live Dealer Games
Live dealer games are revolutionizing the online gaming experience, blending the best aspects of land-based casinos with the convenience of virtual gaming. Players can now engage with real-life dealers via high-definition video streams, enhancing the social component of online gambling. This bridge between physical and virtual casinos introduces interactive features like live chat and immersive gameplay. Industry leaders like Evolution Gaming and NetEnt are setting new standards in player engagement with innovative game formats and top-tier studio setups, redefining the realism and appeal of live gaming.
- Blockchain and Cryptocurrency Integration
Blockchain technology is transforming iGaming by offering unparalleled transparency and security. With blockchain’s ability to enable provably fair gaming, players can verify that each round is fair via an immutable ledger. Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum facilitate faster, more secure transactions, catering to tech-savvy players who value privacy. Platforms like Bitcasino.io are leading the way, leveraging blockchain to ensure fairness and seamless payments. However, the rise of blockchain also attracts regulatory attention, requiring operators to balance innovation with compliance as governments navigate this new technology.
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
AI and ML are instrumental in enhancing player experience and operational efficiency. AI algorithms analyze player behavior in real-time, offering personalized game recommendations and promotions. Additionally, AI-powered chatbots provide instant customer support, improving user satisfaction. AI-driven predictive analytics also help operators fine-tune marketing strategies based on player preferences. Companies like Bet365 are already using these technologies to stay ahead of the competition, offering more personalized and efficient gaming experiences.
- Richer Personalization and Engagement
Personalization has become crucial for iGaming operators looking to boost player satisfaction and retention. By leveraging data analytics, companies can offer tailored game recommendations, dynamic bonuses, and individualized promotional offers. This level of engagement enhances the player experience and strengthens loyalty. Industry pioneers like DraftKings and FanDuel push the envelope by offering highly customized features, such as personalized fantasy sports leagues and bespoke betting options.
- Regulatory Changes and Market Expansion
The constantly evolving regulatory landscape offers both challenges and opportunities for iGaming operators. As more regions legalize various forms of online gambling, companies gain access to new markets. With their large populations and increasing internet penetration, emerging markets like Brazil and Nigeria represent lucrative opportunities. However, navigating the diverse regulations in these markets requires agility and strict compliance with local laws to succeed.
- Enhanced Payment Solutions
With digital transactions becoming the norm, the demand for fast, secure, and flexible payment methods is skyrocketing. From digital wallets to instant banking and cryptocurrencies, players expect payment solutions that offer convenience and security. This growing demand is driving innovation in payment processing, giving operators more opportunities to streamline the transaction process while building trust with users.
Future Implications
The Expanding Role of AI and Blockchain
AI and blockchain are not just current trends, but they are poised to play an even more significant role in iGaming’s future. As AI technology evolves, more sophisticated algorithms will emerge, enabling real-time adaptation to player behavior and preferences. Blockchain’s application may extend beyond transparency and security, transforming game mechanics and player interactions potentially redefining how games are designed and played.
Shifting Player Preferences
Player expectations will continue to evolve toward immersive, interactive experiences. As Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) become more mainstream, they will significantly influence the future of iGaming. Players will demand more engaging, lifelike environments, pushing the industry to create innovative game formats and features that offer deeper immersion and entertainment value.
Regulatory Developments
The regulatory environment will continue to evolve, and iGaming operators must stay agile to navigate future changes. New regulations may increasingly emphasize responsible gaming and player protection, influencing platform design and operational practices. A more harmonized regulatory framework across jurisdictions could provide stability while requiring operators to prioritize compliance.
Integrating Emerging Technologies
Technologies like 5G and edge computing are set to revolutionize iGaming by enabling faster, more reliable connectivity. This will allow for more complex game designs and real-time player interactions, opening new avenues for innovative gaming experiences. As these technologies mature, operators will have greater opportunities to differentiate their offerings. The potential of these emerging technologies to revolutionize iGaming is truly exciting and promising for the industry’s future.
Final Thoughts
The iGaming industry is on the cusp of significant transformations, driven by technological advancements and shifting player demands. Innovations like live dealer games, blockchain integration, AI, ML, and enhanced personalization are just the beginning. As the industry evolves, staying ahead of these trends will be critical for operators looking to thrive in an increasingly dynamic environment.
At Digicode, we are constantly exploring new technologies and refining our solutions to meet the evolving needs of our clients. Our focus on adaptability and foresight ensures that our clients are not just keeping pace with the industry—they’re leading it.
The post Innovations Redefining iGaming: What Operators Need to Know appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.
A partnership between game developer Turbo Games and iGaming solution provider and aggregator Slotegrator began in November 2022 via the APIgrator game integration solution. Since then, the collaboration has been developing successfully — and now it’s time to analyze what made it successful.
Turbo Games has noticed how the new technologies spreading throughout the industry can work for the good of brand transparency and player loyalty: “We can already see how blockchain technology has made it possible to make betting checks more accessible to players. All you need is a blockchain-hash and a decoder service. We think we will continue to move in this direction. Many traditional online casinos do not offer the possibility to check the bet. Sooner or later we all have to come to this. Perhaps the development of artificial intelligence will help here, because we are already seeing its involvement in all spheres of human life.”
Turbo Games specializes in provably fair games. Provable fairness is a concept where players can verify their wins or losses using blockchain technology — the outcome of the game is dictated by a smart contract and is absolutely random, barring the possibility of any human involvement. Using cryptographic hashing algorithms, the gambling site and the player’s device both generate seeds (random strings of numbers). Players receive a key that allows them to check the results; if the results are the same as the game round they witnessed, it proves that there was no foul play.
According to statistics from Turbo Games, the audience for provably fair games is mostly between 18 and 25 years old. However, there are also players aged 35-40 who prefer traditional games but would like to try something new, and have turned their attention to provably fair games.
There are good odds that the technology of provably fair games will become more popular, if not even commonplace, because it gives players a feeling of transparency and proves that the business is trustworthy without the need to search through dozens of reviews. Whereas many innovations in iGaming simply add entertainment, provable fairness addresses security concerns and reassures players that they’re not being exploited, which is invaluable.
Provably fair games are beneficial for both players and online casinos. Vadim Potapenko, Head of Sales at Turbo Games, comments: “It often happens that the users are not satisfied with the result, because gambling is not only about big wins, but also possible losses. By allowing them to check the fairness of a bet, we make life easier for platforms and players. Of course, this allows us to communicate with partners and users that we work honestly and that’s why they should trust our games.”
Ayvar Gabidullin, Business Development Manager at Slotegrator, adds that “this type of game is now becoming more and more popular and has great potential for both players and game providers in the future. On the part of the player, the advantage is that the player can always be sure that his game is fair and he can independently check any of his bets. And for the game provider, this also simplifies the process of implementing casino games, since now it will not be necessary to obtain the appropriate certificates from independent laboratories before launching new games, they can immediately enter the market with these games and where anyone can check the result and make sure that that there is no cheating with players. Many game providers are starting to look towards this type of game. And as far as I see, many operators are starting to think about adding these games.”
What do players in 2023 need? The iGaming industry is all about reputation and trust. Players have a huge number of platforms to choose from, making them pickier and pickier. There’s an abundance of forums where players leave reviews, so if players view a brand as untrustworthy, there are plenty of places they can share their opinion. Provable fairness not only stops that from happening, it provides evidence to the contrary, giving players something else to talk about.
Slotegrator also recommends investing time and effort into localization and creating an effective and detailed marketing strategy — before trying provably fair technology players need to get to the platform, and there is no acquisition without marketing.
ABOUT SLOTEGRATOR
Since 2012, Slotegrator has been one of the iGaming industry’s leading software and business solution providers for online casino and sportsbook operators.
The company’s main focus is software development and support for online casino platforms, as well as the integration of game content and payment systems.
The company works with licensed game developers and offers a vast portfolio of casino content: slots, live casino games, poker, virtual sports, table games, lotteries, casual games, and data feeds for betting.
Slotegrator also provides consulting services in gambling license acquisition and business incorporation.
More information: https://slotegrator.pro/
ABOUT TURBO GAMES
Turbo Games — a provably fair games provider that belongs to Turbo Stars company — has an ambitious goal to establish widespread recognition throughout the iGaming world. Even though it is young, the company consists of professionals who have been working on the brand for over five years and are even planning to introduce a new brand for a wider audience soon.
Turbo Games also works in Europe, India, and South Africa, where the company sees the most potential and expects the same “hype” as in Brazil.
The portfolio of Turbo Games consists of 21 titles, including well-known games like Mines, Crash X, DoubleRoll, Hi-Lo, and Plinko. The studio releases a game every month. However, not all games are developed from scratch. Wicket Blast and Spin Strike, the last two releases, are based on cricket and the Indian Premier League. Crash X remains the most popular fast game in the Turbo Games portfolio, and the studio reports that crash games enjoy stable levels of popularity. Overall, the main focus of the brand is provably fair games.
More information: https://turbogames.io/
Looking to take your career to the next level in the games industry? Then, Nordic Game Talents is the place to be! Games Factory Talents has teamed up with Nordic Game to bring you Nordic Game Talents.
From Oct 27-29, the online and interactive event is dedicated to recruitment and career building in the creative & games industry within the Nordic region. The event empowers participants to be part of a bigger community and motivates them to explore new paths in achieving their career goals.
Hiring creative & games studios – Supercell, Funcom, Panzerdog, Tactile Games, Gamecan, Fingersoft, Dazzle Rocks, Redhill Games to name a few from the Nordic region will be participating in the event. These studios will share information on their latest projects, work culture and what it takes to be part of their team. The individual games associations from Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway and Estonia will share insights through live sessions on the booming games industry in their respective countries. Career development topics pertinent to job seekers like – How to have a successful first interview, Creative Portfolio reviews will also be discussed.
Experienced game industry professionals and individuals beginning their careers from around the world are welcome to join the event. One-to-one interviews with the hiring studios can be scheduled through the event platform. A great opportunity to get to know the studios and network with game professionals from around the world.
Participating in the event
As a job seeker attending Nordic Game Talents, take a few minutes to fill out a simple registration form. After filling the registration form you will receive a link to the online event platform – PINE, to join the event on 27th October. Participants joining Nordic Game Talents will also receive a free-of-charge pass to the Nordic Game Conference.
To view the complete agenda, please click here and to learn more about the event please visit Games Job Fair
About Games Factory Talents
A Helsinki-based talent attraction agency dedicated to the games & creative industry. Our services include direct recruitment, organizing game job fairs and managing a community of game industry professionals through our GameDev Talent Board.
To learn more about Games Factory Talents visit – Games Factory Talents
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