In June, Macau experienced a significant drop in gross gaming revenue (GGR), which fell by 12.1% compared to the same month last year, totaling MOP$18.5 billion (approximately $2.29 billion). This decline marks the lowest monthly performance since September 2025, largely attributed to the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup affecting casino expenditures.
According to data from the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ), June's revenue also saw an 18.1% decrease from May's figures.
Despite this monthly downturn, the GGR for the first half of 2026 demonstrated a year-on-year increase of 6.8%, reaching MOP$126.9 billion ($15.7 billion). However, the growth rate has slowed as comparisons to the previous year have become more challenging.
Industry experts have linked part of June's revenue drop to the World Cup being held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, which has redirected some betting activity away from Macau's casinos.
Analysts had predicted a weaker June, especially with the expanded tournament format featuring 48 teams and 104 matches, compared to the usual 64, potentially prolonging its effect on gaming spending.
CitiGroup analysts are optimistic about a swift recovery for Macau's casino sector post-tournament, buoyed by a packed schedule of entertainment and sporting events. Upcoming highlights include performances by K-pop groups Babymonster, TWS, and Enhypen, as well as Taiwanese singer Zhao Chuan, and the NBA China Games featuring the Houston Rockets and Dallas Mavericks.
Throughout the first half of the year, the average monthly GGR was MOP$21.15 billion ($2.62 billion), surpassing the MOP$19.66 billion monthly average needed to achieve the Macau government's annual revenue target of MOP$236 billion ($29.21 billion).