Citi's August survey of Macau gaming tables shows operators cutting minimum bets to pull in mass-market players while premium customers wager more. Total premium mass wagers rose 7% from a year earlier to HK$14.3 million ($1.83 million).
The number of premium players Citi observed fell 16% to 525, which pushed the average wager per player up 27% to HK$27,284. On mass tables the minimum bet dropped 13%, from HK$2,191 to HK$1,901.
Wynn tops the premium table
Citi counted 31 whales in August, seven more than in July but one fewer than a year earlier. Their average wager jumped 54% to HK$243,548, and the largest single bet, HK$820,000, was placed at the Chairman's Club at Wynn Palace. Wynn led the premium segment with a 29% share, against 18% a year earlier. City of Dreams put tables into play with minimums from HK$300 to HK$1,000, the lowest threshold Citi has recorded.
Operators are spending on their premium floors. MGM Cotai opened a slot zone beside the Masters Club and is renovating the Supreme Room; City of Dreams is also under renovation, and construction of The Enclave has started near Wynn Palace.
Concerns about weak GGR in June and July are easing now that the football World Cup is behind the market. Citi keeps its forecast of 6% Macau GGR growth in 2026.
