written and last updated by
Sam Smith at
07 Jul 2023
Journalist, Editorial Department
Analysts at Morningstar anticipate that by the early 2030s, the integrated resort and casino MGM in Osaka will generate over $4 billion (approximately 368.12 billion rubles) in revenue. This figure surpasses the pre-pandemic earnings of Las Vegas Sands in Singapore and the Venetian in Macau.
Dan Vasilik, a senior equity analyst at Morningstar, noted that prior to COVID-19, Osaka attracted more than 12 million international tourists. The introduction of the casino is expected to draw many of these visitors back, along with new guests from China. Vasilik points to the resort's proximity to Osaka Airport and the city's business district as key factors in its appeal.
The Morningstar research team also predicts that a significant number of local residents will frequent the casino. Vasilik highlighted the area's high population density and income levels, as well as the Japanese appetite for gaming and entertainment options.
Osaka's metropolitan population stands at 19 million, with a density approximately 50% higher than that of Singapore and significantly greater than in the United States. The average household income is around $50,000 (4.6 million rubles) per year. Analysts believe these factors will contribute to strong demand for the casino resort's offerings.
The initial revenue target for MGM in Osaka is set at $3.6 billion (331.3 billion rubles), with the majority of income expected to come from gaming operations. Projections suggest the establishment will attract 14 million local visitors and 6 million international tourists.
Regarding competition with direct rivals in Singapore and Macau, Vasilik believes that the Japanese resort's distance from Hong Kong and southern regions of China will work in its favor. As a result, the primary visitors are likely to be players from Shanghai and other coastal and northern cities in mainland China, which are closer to Japan.
Meanwhile, employees at Macau's casinos are hoping for summer bonuses.