Published on: May 4, 2026, 07:36h.
Updated on: May 4, 2026, 07:36h.
- Revenue from Macau casinos hit $2.36 billion in April
- New side bets on baccarat have recently been introduced in Macau casinos
- These new side bets heighten the casinos’ house edge on this popular game
In April, Macau casinos sustained their streak of success, with gaming revenue rising by 5.5% year-over-year to MOP19.9 billion (approximately US$2.36 billion).
As Macau experienced its best year post-COVID, with total gross gaming revenue (GGR) from six operators amounting to $30.9 billion, the momentum has continued into 2026. By the end of April, GGR for the city’s casinos surpassed $10.6 billion, marking a 12.1% increase compared to the previous year.
This growth aligns with a transformation in Macau’s gaming industry, shifting from solely catering to high rollers to also embracing affluent players and those simply looking to enjoy games of chance.
The exit of junket operators—previously responsible for bringing high-stakes players to Macau—resulted from Beijing’s restrictions on capital leaving the mainland. Consequently, casinos have broadened their focus to include mid-tier and mass-market players, even beginning to promote family-oriented and corporate events, evolving into an experience reminiscent of Las Vegas.
Strong Tourism in Macau
Market analysts had anticipated this ongoing gaming boom in the first half of 2026, though they remain cautious about the succeeding months. The year-over-year comparisons are projected to be “extremely challenging,” indicating that GGR figures may align more closely with those seen in 2025 as the year progresses.
At present, the gaming outlook appears optimistic. Early data from the recent five-day Labor Day holiday, commencing May 1, indicates that Macau is increasingly becoming a highly sought-after vacation locale for mainland tourists across different demographics.
During the first three days of the national holiday, Macau’s Public Security Police Force recorded over 630,000 visitors. This holiday, known as Golden Week, pays tribute to China’s laborers.
On Saturday, May 2, approximately 474,000 visitors entered the Special Administrative Region, contributing to a record-breaking total of 889,000 border crossings in a single day.
Innovative Baccarat Side Bets
Looking forward, the introduction of new side bets for baccarat—the favored game in Macau—could alleviate concerns regarding year-over-year GGR comparisons. The Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau of Macau has recently authorized the addition of several new side bets, including “Monkey No Monkey” and “Pairs+.”
In baccarat, “monkey” refers to cards valued zero, specifically face cards and tens. Under “Monkey No Monkey,” the wager is successful if the initial four cards dealt to the player and banker are all either face cards or all numbered cards (including aces). A payout of 50:1 is awarded for four face cards, while 1:1 is given for four numbered cards or aces.
The side bet “Pairs+” wins when either the player or banker is dealt a pair at the outset. This bet pays 3:1 when only one side has a pair and a whopping 30:1 when both receive pairs.
All six casino operators have begun offering these side bets, which will increase the house edge on a game that is typically regarded as favorable for players, regardless of their skill level. The banker wager in baccarat features a minimal house edge of approximately 1.06%, whereas the player bet carries a slightly higher edge at around 1.24%.