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Macau’s gaming giant, Sands China Ltd, is shaking up the baccarat scene at its Cotai Strip resorts this July by introducing the region’s first—and currently only—two-tier bonus payout for side bets on ‘6s’ and ‘7s’. This innovative “Sands Baccarat Bonus” opens new possibilities for high-stakes players who opt for the distinct side bet combinations of Small 6, Big 6, Lucky 7, and Super Lucky 7.

The promotion requires a minimum side wager of HKD 500 (approximately US$64), with additional incentives for higher stakes. Players betting HKD 2,000 in premium zones—such as APEX areas and high-limit pits at The Venetian Macao, The Plaza, and Londoner Macao—qualify for elevated rewards. Across these venues, branded tables adorned with dragon and tiger motifs feature dedicated felt, signboards, and rule sheets that highlight the bonus opportunities.

The two-tier bonus structure offers compelling potential payouts. The top-tier “Grand Bonus” activates when a player wins with exactly six cards totaling seven points, all in the diamonds suit, while the banker’s hand consists solely of spades. The slightly broader “Major Bonus” applies when the player wins with five or six cards totaling seven, all in a red suit (hearts or diamonds), against a banker’s all-black-suit hand.

Another intriguing feature ensures that when multiple players hit qualifying “Lucky Wagers” simultaneously, the bonus pool is divided proportionally, based on each player's wager amount. Sands China’s move comes amid a broader industry trend of rolling out baccarat side-bet combinations and deploying “smart tables” across Macau since last year.

By being the first to launch this two-tier bonus structure, Sands China is not only enhancing the thrill factor for high-rollers but also reinforcing its competitive edge in Macau’s premium gaming market. The unique rules of the Grand and Major bonuses require precise card distributions and suit sequences, adding layers of excitement and sophistication to the traditional baccarat experience.

As this promotion unfolds through the month, it will be fascinating to see whether rival concessionaires will respond with similarly bold incentives—and whether Sands China will expand the concept beyond its Cotai resorts. For now, baccarat enthusiasts have a rare chance to chase these extravagant six- and seven-point payouts, elevating their side-bet strategies into a realm of higher stakes and richer rewards.