Closure signals the accelerating transformation of the city’s satellite casino landscape
End of an Era: Casino Grandview Closes Early
On 31 July 2025, Casino Grandview officially ceased operations at midnight, becoming the first satellite casino in Macau to close ahead of the 2025 deadline imposed by new gaming regulations. The closure was marked by a modest crowd of visitors capturing the venue’s final moments, highlighting the significance of the change for both locals and gaming enthusiasts.
Notices posted outside the property instructed patrons with unredeemed chips or other pending matters to resolve them at an affiliated SJM Holdings gaming property.
Regulatory Shifts Driving Industry Change
Casino Grandview’s closure stems from regulatory amendments introduced in 2022, which mandated that all satellite casinos either transition under the direct control of licensed concessionaires or cease operations by the end of 2025. These measures were designed to tighten oversight, ensure compliance, and create a more transparent operational framework within Macau’s casino industry.
Unlike integrated resorts that hold their own gaming licences, satellite casinos rely on agreements with licensed operators—a model the government now seeks to phase out.
SJM Holdings’ Strategic Decision
Operated under SJM Holdings, Casino Grandview’s early shutdown reflects a strategic business decision by the group to streamline operations ahead of regulatory changes. Importantly, the company has assured that over 160 affected staff members will remain employed through alternative roles within its network of properties, mitigating the social impact of the closure.
SJM’s proactive approach may set a precedent for other satellite operators as the industry undergoes a significant structural overhaul.
Industry Implications and Outlook
The early closure of Casino Grandview highlights the rapid transformation of Macau’s gaming sector, where the satellite model—once a critical component of the city’s casino ecosystem—is quickly being dismantled.
This move aligns with Macau’s policy shift toward greater control by licensed concessionaires, paving the way for a more centralized and regulated market.
As the end-of-2025 deadline approaches, other satellite properties will need to transition ownership structures or follow Grandview’s example by shutting down. This transition marks a new chapter in Macau’s gaming industry, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape and investment outlook in the years ahead.
