SRI Lanka’s government has granted Melco a 20-year casino licence for the City of Dreams SRI Lanka development, according to reports. Melco is partnering with John Keells Holdings on the integrated resort, valued at more than US$1bn, which will be rebranded from Cinnamon Life Integrated Resort.
Melco’s 20-year casino licence establishes the operating term for its SRI Lankan resort development.
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Citigroup’s June survey found premium mass wagers in Macau fell 38% year on year to HK$9.8 million. The survey recorded 448 players, down 29%, and Citigroup attributed the slowdown to the World Cup and a high comparison base from a June 2025 concert; it said it expected a swift recovery after the tournament ends on 19 July.
Police spokesman Fredrick Wootler said authorities arrested more than 1,000 foreigners for cybercrime activity in SRI Lanka this year, more than twice last year’s 430. The Gambling Regulatory Authority, created under a 2025 law, is expected to be fully operational by 30 June 2026, with responsibility for anti-money-laundering and counter-terrorist-financing compliance.
Belle Corp said it is discussing an operating partnership for a planned integrated resort in Clark, Pampanga, after board approval for a provisional casino licence. It plans to invest at least $300 million and aims to choose an operator within the year; its request to become a co-licensee remains under regulatory assessment.
Anutin Charnvirakul's re-election as Thailand's prime minister reportedly leaves no prospect of casino legalisation during his term. The previous government's plan for five casinos was halted after its fall, and the casino bill has been shelved; Melco had opened a Bangkok office in preparation for a licensing campaign.
YOHO Group plans to invest at least MOP30 million in a food court at the former Greek Mythology Casino site in Taipa, as part of the redevelopment of the New Century Hotel. Trial operations are planned for the third quarter, and YOHO will allocate stalls through a competition open to Macau residents, with priority for first-time entrepreneurs and local SMEs.