On August 4, 2025, Dae Sik Han, Chairman and CEO of Hann Philippines Inc., revealed the rationale behind moving forward with an IPO for Hann Holdings Inc., the parent company behind the integrated Hann Casino Resort in Clark Freeport Zone. In an interview on One News, Han stated the public listing was necessary “to ensure no delays” in executing his ambitious development roadmap.
In early August 2025, Wynn Macau Ltd. announced a significant expansion of its revolving credit facility, securing an additional US $1 billion in senior unsecured financing—raising its total committed revolving facility to US $2.5 billion.
On August 2, 2025, Colombo witnessed the grand unveiling of City of Dreams Sri Lanka, a US $1.2 billion joint venture between Melco Resorts & Entertainment and John Keells Holdings—marking the nation’s largest private investment ever and its first fully integrated resort.
In late July 2025, Philippine Finance Secretary Ralph Recto unveiled one of the most sweeping regulatory shifts under consideration for the country’s online gambling sector. During Post‑SONA discussions in San Juan City, Recto revealed that the government is exploring raising license fees on e‑gaming platforms from the current 25 percent up to 30 percent, 35 percent—or even 40 percent of gross gaming revenue (GGR).
As Portugal opens a high-stakes public tender for five casino concessions in Espinho, Póvoa de Varzim, and the Algarve, industry insiders expect Pansy Ho’s Estoril Sol to vigorously pursue renewal of its longstanding Póvoa de Varzim license. The Portuguese government has formally announced the launch of the tender, which covers 15-year licenses across three regions, with bids due by September 5, 2025. The existing contracts—extended through year-end as part of pandemic support—are now being put up for competitive award to the highest quality and financially sound candidates.
Author: Janice Chew • Monday, 04/08/2025
