SJM Casinos Accelerate Shutdowns
The closure of Casino Fortuna is part of a broader retreat by SJM Holding’s satellite casino network. Kam Pek Casino, another SJM-licensed venue, will shut down on November 30, while Landmark Casino has yet to confirm a timeline but vows to operate “until the final moment.”
Recent closures include Casino Casa Real, which ceased operations on November 21. Ponte 16 is expected to close on November 28 after SJM abandoned acquisition talks that might have preserved it as a self-operated property.
These exits have disrupted joint ventures, including Success Universe Group’s stalled expansion plans for Ponte 16 and a delayed Inner Harbor revitalization project. The initiative, which envisioned a floating casino and infrastructure upgrades, was estimated to cost HK$100 million (US$12.8 million).
L’Arc Survival
Amid widespread satellite casino closures, L’Arc Hotel’s gaming venue near StarWorld in Macau’s NAPE district stands as the lone exception. SJM finalized a HKD1.75 billion (US$224 million) acquisition of Arc of Triumph Development Co Ltd., securing ownership of the property. The venue, renamed Casino Le Royal Arc, will transition to SJM’s direct management, becoming the only satellite casino retained under the operator.
Workforce Shifts Detailed
Macau authorities have disclosed labor transition figures linked to the satellite casino phaseout. Economy and Finance Secretary Tai Kin Ip confirmed 1,600 employees from six closed venues have been redeployed to parent companies. Closed properties include SJM Holdings’ Grandview, Legend Palace, Casa Real, and Emperor Palace, alongside Galaxy Entertainment’s Waldo, and Melco Resorts’ Grand Dragon.
During a legislative debate, Tai noted four more closures, one in late November and three in December, impacting about 3,200 workers. Government teams and hotlines established to help employees have received 29 inquiries, all of which have been resolved without being escalated.
