Published on: March 14, 2026, at 01:45h.
Updated on: March 14, 2026, at 01:45h.
- Marina Bay Sands, managed by Las Vegas Sands, holds the title for the most lucrative casino globally.
- MGM is optimistic that its Osaka integrated resort will be a serious contender in the market.
- MGM Osaka is projected to launch in 2030.
Leaders at MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM) have expressed confidence that the company’s ambitious casino hotel venture in Japan could ultimately rank among the most lucrative gaming establishments worldwide.
During the recent J.P. Morgan Gaming, Lodging, Restaurant, and Leisure Management Access Forum, MGM executives expressed strong optimism about the construction of MGM Osaka, claiming it may soon compete effectively with the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore, known for its financial success.
“This year, we are allocating approximately $450 million in equity investment toward our Japan endeavor, and we’re planning for this to increase in the following years,” stated MGM CFO Jonathan Halkyard at the forum. “We believe it has the potential to be the largest and most successful integrated resort globally, surpassing Marina Bay Sands. Therefore, we are enthusiastic about investing there.”
This comparison sets a high standard, as Marina Bay Sands consistently ranks as the world’s most profitable venue of its type—a distinction that is becoming increasingly pronounced as its earnings continue to grow.
MGM Identifies Parallels Between Singapore and Japan
MGM CEO Bill Hornbuckle remains upbeat about the company’s prospects in Japan, suggesting that the emerging casino market may eventually mirror Singapore’s success—where MGM will stand as the sole operator for a number of years.
“If it materializes as we anticipate, with a potential cash flow of $2 billion, we could see approximately $800 million net, based on our equity share. That’s a significant opportunity,” he discussed at the J.P. Morgan conference.
Hornbuckle’s assessment holds weight, as he openly acknowledges his career hinges on the success of the Japan initiative. He further suggested that Japan could emerge as a larger gaming market than Singapore, given its geographical benefits compared to Macau, which leads in gross gaming revenue (GGR).
“Consider this: Japan has a population of 120 million and is only 1.5 hours closer to Shanghai and Beijing than Macau,” he noted.
Japan Emerging as an Enticing Casino Destination
In the gaming industry, credible growth opportunities are scarce. This is particularly true since Macau and Singapore remain closed to new operators for the foreseeable future.
Currently, Japan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) represent fertile ground for major operators like MGM to explore new growth avenues. Although both regions start off as single casino markets, this dynamic is likely to evolve over time. There’s potential for Japan to initiate a new phase of integrated resort proposals next year, with evidence suggesting the country can accommodate several gaming facilities.
“With geographic advantages and the scale of the market, along with the continued $30 billion revenue from Pachinko in Japan, we feel confident about our prospects,” Hornbuckle remarked at the J.P. Morgan conference. “The existing infrastructure is solid. We are committed to delivering an exceptional product that reflects our global standards and reputation.”