Galaxy Dominates Macau Premium Mass Market, Sands Unveils Baccarat Jackpot

Galaxy Entertainment Group solidifies market leadership in Macau’s premium gaming sector in July 2025, capturing 35% of high-roller wagers, according to Citigroup’s latest table month survey. The operator’s Pavilion North gaming zone at Galaxy Macau drove momentum, attracting 12 of 35 tracked “whale” players, including one placing a record HK$1 million (US$128,000) bet. This report marks a four-month streak of seven-figure wagers being placed.

Analysts George Choi and Timothy Chau credit the newly opened Capella ultra-luxury hotel for drawing elite patrons, noting, “On our count, Galaxy has leapt to the pole position in our survey with a 35% share in total premium mass wager observed, likely reflecting Capella’s success in appealing to whales.” While Sands China trails closely, Galaxy’s performance defied operational challenges from typhoon warnings to severe weather conditions during the survey period.

Sand’s Jackpot Strategy

Sands China secured 25% of premium mass wagers in July 2025, boosted by Hong Kong icon Sandy Lam’s Venetian Arena concert and a novel baccarat jackpot targeting high-value side bets. The operator’s progressive jackpot system requires HK$500 (US$64) side bets in mass areas or HK$2,000 (US$255) in premium rooms. The pot offers over HK$5 million (US$640,000) for rare hands where a Player’s seven (same suit) defeats a Banker’s six.

Analysts Choi and Chau highlighted the jackpot’s potential to elevate Sands’ market share through increased side bet volumes, given their “significantly higher house advantage”. However, they cautioned that rivals replicating the model could erode the operator’s edge. The jackpot’s Caribbean Stud Poker-style trigger condition underscores Macau’s growing emphasis on gamification to attract premium players.

Premium Mass Market Defying Weather Troubles

Macau’s premium gaming sector grew significantly in July 2025 despite Typhoon Wipha’s disruptions. Total wagers hit HK$16 million (US$2.05 million), representing a 32% annual surge. Player numbers rose by 18% to 681, while average bets climbed 11% to HK$23,536 (US$3,020), which Citi analysts called “solid statistics” given transport shutdowns during the storm.

Gaming activity remained resilient despite typhoon signals escalating to No. 10 (Macau’s highest alert) before easing to No. 3 by Sunday evening. The data underscores the increasing stability of the premium mass market even with external disruptions.

Tech and Whale Activity Surge

SJM Holdings Grand Lisboa Palace contributed to Macau’s premium mass market surge with tech transformations. The property introduced smart gaming tablets that enhanced operational efficiency by streamlining player tracking and enabling rapid side bet payouts. July’s survey also revealed 35 high-roller “whales” placing HK$100,000+ bets, up 52% year-on-year, including two HK$500,000 bets at Galaxy Macau and StarWorld’s Horizon.