In early October, high rollers in Macau spent a record-breaking $27.2 million at the casinos

Analysts at Citigroup have conducted a study on the activity of premium segment players in Macau's casinos during the first week of October, coinciding with the Golden Week, China's official autumn holiday period.
Analysts George Choi and Timothy Chau report that the total amount wagered during this period reached a record HK$27.2 million (approximately US$3.5 million). This figure represents an 81% increase compared to October 2022. Additionally, the amount spent by players was 18% higher than in February 2024, when Macau celebrated the Lunar New Year.
The study indicates that the occupancy rate of gaming tables by premium segment visitors reached around 52%. According to Citigroup, this is the highest level since the easing of COVID-19 restrictions in January 2023.
The number of premium segment players at the beginning of this month totaled 966, marking a 90% increase compared to the same period last year. The average bet size decreased by 5% to HK$28,150 (approximately US$3,600), yet it remains the third-largest average in Citigroup's recorded history.
Analysts noted that demand in the premium segment has always been robust. However, interest in casinos surged even further following China's announcement of economic stimulus measures. According to the city's tourism bureau, nearly 86% of Macau's visitors during the first five days of Golden Week were from mainland China.
Citigroup's report also highlighted an increase in the number of "whales," or high-stakes players, in October, rising to 62 individuals. The majority, 15 guests, chose the Galaxy Macau resort-casino, where the highest single bet recorded was HK$420,000 (approximately US$53,000).
It is worth noting that shares of Macau casino operators have risen in response to China's economic stimulus measures.