Seven venues to shut down as operator moves toward ownership-based model by end of 2025
SJM Resorts has announced a significant restructuring of its satellite casino operations in Macau, confirming that seven of its nine satellite casinos will close by 31 December 2025. The decision aligns with Macau’s revised gaming laws introduced in 2022, which require all satellite casinos to transition away from profit-sharing models in favour of direct ownership or non-revenue-based management agreements.
Satellite Model Faces Legal Sunset
Historically, satellite casinos in Macau operated under a revenue-sharing arrangement, where third-party property owners partnered with concessionaires like SJM to offer gaming services. However, under Article 44 of the updated gaming law, this model will be phased out entirely by the end of 2025.
SJM, one of Macau’s oldest gaming concessionaires, currently operates nine satellite casinos. The company has expressed intent to acquire the properties housing Casino L’Arc Macau and Casino Ponte 16, transitioning them to compliant ownership structures. However, formal negotiations are yet to begin.
Seven Casinos to Cease Operations
The other seven properties — Casino Casa Real, Casino Emperor Palace, Casino Fortuna, Casino Grandview, Casino Kam Pek Paradise, Casino Landmark, and Casino Legend Palace — will cease operations once current agreements expire. SJM confirmed that gaming tables and slot machines from these sites will be redistributed across its self-owned venues, ensuring continued use of assets.
The company reassured investors and stakeholders that this restructuring is not expected to materially impact its operational performance, liquidity, or profitability.
Employee Redeployment and Labour Commitment
SJM also moved swiftly to address labour concerns, given the potential displacement of hundreds of employees. In a public statement, the company reiterated its commitment to safeguarding local employment, offering internal reassignment opportunities to direct employees and encouraging third-party staff to apply for vacancies within the broader SJM Resorts portfolio.
This employment-first approach echoes Macau’s broader push to support local livelihoods while modernising its gaming sector under tighter regulatory frameworks.
Strong Q1 Results Support Strategic Transition
The announcement comes amid a strong financial quarter for SJM Holdings, which reported HK$7.5 billion (approx. $970 million) in net revenue for Q1 2025. Growth was driven by improved performance at flagship properties, particularly Grand Lisboa Palace, which continues to gain momentum in Macau’s post-COVID recovery.
As the region’s gaming landscape becomes more regulated and competitive, SJM’s proactive compliance and operational consolidation signal a strategic shift aimed at long-term sustainability and profitability — all while navigating complex legal transitions and preserving local employment.
