May is a time of popular Chinese holidays that are celebrated nationwide. Analysts noted increased activity, which led to a significant 5% annual revenue increase—in terms of specific figures, gross gaming revenue in Macau in May totalled 21.19 billion patacas, a substantial amount both in absolute and relative terms. Compared to May 2024, the figure is 5% higher. Compared to April of this year, revenue increased by 12.4%.

Gross gaming revenue in Macau reached its highest monthly figure since the COVID-19 pandemic began in May. Revenue since the beginning of the year has reached a figure that is just over 100 billion patacas, or slightly more than 12 billion US dollars when converted into another currency.

Analysts believe that one of the most critical factors influencing revenue growth was the additional holidays during the month, which were popular national holidays that significantly increased activity in Macau’s gambling zone.

Another significant reason for this surge in activity is the range of modern games and entertainment offered by local casinos. These include the interactive game Plinko, which has quickly gained popularity in local establishments. Interestingly, although people can play Plinko game online, many still prefer to visit physical establishments.

Last time, the monthly revenue in Macau after the pandemic peaked in October 2024. At that time, it exceeded 20.79 billion patacas. According to data from the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau, the revenue generated in May 2024 exceeded the previous figure by 2%, representing a significant difference.

Based on the May figure, it can be interpreted as follows: it means that Macau’s revenue since the beginning of the year has reached an impressive 97.71 billion patacas. Compared to the same period last year, revenue increased by 1.7%. This is a fairly encouraging figure.

In May, Macau’s revenue not only met but exceeded forecasts. Analysts at Seaport Research Partners stated that May’s revenue exceeded expectations due to the gambling zone’s significant benefit from the extra Saturday during the month. Analytics indicate that revenue on weekends increases by an average of 20% compared to regular weekdays. And this level of revenue provides significant growth both during the month and on an annual basis.

This year, the Macau Dragon Boat Festival took place from May 31 to June 2. Last year, the same holiday fell in mid-June. Of course, there was also additional activity in the gambling zone during that period.

Seaport estimated the market growth rate in May to be 5.3% year-over-year. As for June, revenue growth was estimated at 3.4% year-on-year. At the same time, compared to May, growth decreased by 13.7%. Analysts predict that Macau will remain in the black, thanks to several large-scale concerts and the early start of the Dragon Boat Festival this year.

At the same time, analysts say that the June estimate is conservative. The fact is that as the season approaches in June, there is a risk that typhoons will have a significant impact on the figures.

As for the year as a whole, Seaport forecasts a 4% increase in gross revenue in Macau, Asia’s Las Vegas. The company believes that this will be the result of marketing efforts by operators. In addition, the figure will also be influenced by improved consumer trends in China. This is due to stimulus and policy measures by the government, which are helping to strengthen the economy. This is expected to lead to improved consumer confidence at the end of the year.