Macau’s gross gaming revenue (GGR) fell 12.1% year over year in June 2026 as the FIFA World Cup continued to impact casino demand. This is according to figures released by the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ).
Total GGR reached MOP18.52 billion (approximately US$2.29 billion), down 18.1% from May. The monthly total equated to an average daily GGR of around MOP617 million. Analysts noted the result was largely in line with market expectations.
Analysts Cite Seasonal Weakness
Industry analysts attributed the softer performance primarily to the World Cup. Historically, it has diverted betting activity away from Macau’s casino market.
Deutsche Bank noted that June’s daily gaming revenue declined 15.4% from May. This is a much steeper drop than the historical pre-pandemic average seasonal decline of 8.6%. Furthermore, compared with June 2019, Macau’s gaming revenue remained approximately 22% lower.
Citigroup also described the June results as broadly matching its forecasts. Revenue reached roughly 78% of pre-pandemic June 2019 levels.
July Recovery Expected After Tournament
Analysts expect the World Cup to continue weighing on gaming demand through the tournament’s conclusion on July 19.
Citigroup forecasts July GGR of approximately MOP21 billion, representing a 5% year-over-year decline. Meanwhile, Deutsche Bank projects a slightly lower figure of MOP20.6 billion, down 7.9% from the previous year.
Although short-term pressure is expected to continue, both firms anticipate activity improving after the tournament concludes.
Entertainment Events Could Support Recovery
Macau’s packed entertainment schedule may help offset some of the slowdown in the second half of July.
A series of concerts and live performances featuring regional artists are expected to attract additional visitors following the World Cup. This could potentially support casino traffic and tourism.
Despite the weaker second quarter, analysts remain optimistic about Macau’s longer-term outlook. Deutsche Bank continues to forecast full-year 2026 gaming revenue growth of 5.2%. It expects the market to recover as tourism and entertainment activity strengthen in the months ahead.
