The new expanded format of this year’s World Cup could result in an even greater negative impact on Macau GGR than has been historically seen, although the city should enjoy a strong post-tournament recovery, according to commentary from investment bank Citigroup.
In a note, Citi analysts George Choi and Timothy Chau said they expect a 10% year-on-year decline in GGR in June and a 5% decline in July before a “swift recovery driven by a strong post-tournament event calendar. ”
The World Cup runs from 11 June to 19 July.
Citi pointed to historical analysis which shows that major soccer tournaments divert the gaming budgets of Macau players.
