According to Savills’ assessment, properties linked to higher-performing satellite casinos have experienced the steepest valuation drops, in some cases exceeding 60 percent, as gaming income had accounted for a larger share of total property value. By contrast, properties associated with weaker-performing casinos generally recorded smaller, though still notable, declines of at least 30 percent.
Savills also found that nearby commercial units have been affected, with rents and prices for surrounding shops falling by as much as 50 percent from peak levels. Gaming-related businesses such as pawn shops and jewelry stores saw the sharpest declines, while livelihood-oriented retailers, including supermarkets and pharmacies, were relatively less affected.
Savills said that, over the coming period, many gaming-dependent merchants are unlikely to continue operating under previous rental terms once leases expire. Some are expected to close, while others may negotiate rent reductions, downsize operations, or transition toward more livelihood-focused businesses as gaming-driven demand fades.
Macau Responsible Gaming Association president Billy Song echoed this assessment, noting that while the overall impact on Macau’s gaming industry has been limited, the effect on specific neighborhoods has been more pronounced.
“After the satellite casinos closed, foot traffic in those areas has clearly dropped,” Song told AGB. “Hotels and restaurants in the same buildings continue to operate, but the overall flow of people is no longer what it used to be.”
Song said satellite casinos accounted for only a small share of Macau’s total gaming market, meaning the closures did not materially affect overall gaming performance. However, he said the localized impact on surrounding business districts has been significant.
“The overall market impact is not large, but for the nearby commercial areas, the change in visitor flow is quite obvious,” he said, adding that businesses relying heavily on casino customers have been the most affected.
On employment, Song said there has been no clear evidence so far of large-scale layoffs linked to the closures. He noted that most gaming staff have already been absorbed by licensed casino operators, though adjustments have occurred in support functions.
“Some non-gaming roles, such as security or logistics, may see reductions because the gaming floor is no longer operating,” Song said. “But based on the government figures available, the overall employment impact remains limited.”
Dingnews.com 26/01/2026