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According to government data released on Sunday, the gross gaming revenue of Macau’s casinos came in at MOP22.63 billion, or $2.81 billion, for the month of January. The total marked a 24.0 percent increase from January of the prior year’s MOP18.25 billion. Compared to December’s MOP20.89, it rose to 8.4 percent month-on-month. The Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau put out the numbers, showing steady demand early in the year.
JP Morgan noted in a January 26 memo that GGR held firm and strong for the first 25 days, averaging MOP712 million daily. That pace set the tone for the month’s solid close. The full-year GGR of Macau for the year 2025 has reached MOP247.40 billion, setting its record-best since COVID hit in early 2020. It has topped every year since but still trails 2019’s near MOP292.46 billion.
Government Eyes Prudent 2026 Target
The local government’s November 2026 budget plan calls for casino GGR to hit MOP236 billion this year. Economy and Finance Secretary Tai Kin Ip called the forecast carefully during Legislative Assembly talks. He pointed to risks from global economic swings, without giving details. The target follows 2025’s record performance, incorporating prudence in the face of external forces.
The year’s 24 percent year-over-year increase in January easily beat forecasts, following December’s strong performance. Daily averages were in line with JP Morgan’s early estimate, indicating strong play in mass and VIP. The bureau’s quick release lets operators adjust fast.
January Pace Tops Prior Year
MOP22.63 billion reflects robust visitor flow and hold rates holding firm. Up 24 percent from last January’s MOP18.25 billion, it shows recovery deepening. Month-on-month 8.4 percent gain from December keeps the streak alive. 2025’s MOP247.40 billion set post-COVID high, now January pushes toward 2026 goals.
Budget Reflects Steady Outlook
Tai Kin Ip framed MOP236 billion as a safe bet, mindful of international ups and downs. Legislative nod came shortly after the November plan drop. Against 2019’s MOP292.46 billion peak, progress continues but tempered. JP Morgan’s “steady and solid” call for late January lines up with full-month results.
Recovery Momentum Holds Firm
January GGR’s $2.81 billion underscores Macau’s pull, 24 percent ahead yearly. Bureau data confirms an 8.4 percent monthly lift. 2025 record MOP247.40 billion provides base 2026 MOP236 billion target prudent per secretary. Daily MOP712 million early pace proved spot on. Path to 2019 levels stays in sight with consistent gains.
Source: GGR Asia
