Macau Officially Ends SJM’s Casino Grandview Satellite Operation

Casino Grandview Closure Marks the Beginning of Satellite Exit Phase

Macau has officially shut down its first satellite casino, Casino Grandview, signaling the beginning of a structured and regulated exit process overseen by the Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ). Operated under the license of SJM Resorts, S.A., the Taipa-based venue ceased operations on July 30, 2025.

The DICJ stated that the closure was conducted in full compliance with local laws and regulations, in cooperation with other government departments, and that public order was fully maintained throughout the process.

Part of SJM’s Broader Strategic Retraction

The shutdown aligns with SJM’s strategic plan, announced in June 2025, to wind down seven out of its nine satellite casino partnerships by the end of the year. SJM will retain only Casino Ponte 16 and Casino Grand Lisboa Palace, bringing both under direct ownership and management.

Authorities described the early closure of Casino Grandview as a “disciplined and compliant transition”, fully aligned with regulatory guidance.

DICJ Coordinated On-Site Closure Procedures

On the day of closure, DICJ officials suspended all gaming tables and oversaw the full decommissioning of the venue. The Labour Affairs Bureau dispatched staff to provide on-site consultations and hotline services to affected employees. Officers from both the Public Security Police Force and the Judiciary Police were present to ensure a smooth and secure process.

Players holding outstanding chips, deposits, or promotional credits from Casino Grandview may redeem them at Casino Casa Real starting July 31, 2025. SJM Resorts emphasized that all customer entitlements will be honored in full, despite the venue’s closure.

Regulatory Alignment and Long-Term Goals

The DICJ reiterated its long-term commitment to strengthening Macau’s gaming regulatory environment. The gradual closure of satellite casinos is part of a broader strategy to build a standardized and sustainable gambling sector and support economic diversification.

Satellite casinos—a Macau-specific model—are operated by third parties using licenses from major concessionaires. However, under Law No. 7/2022 (Macau Gaming Law), such arrangements are being phased out during a three-year transition period ending in 2025.

To date, SJM Resorts, Melco Resorts, and Galaxy Entertainment have submitted formal closure notifications for a total of 11 satellite casinos.

More Closures Expected in Coming Months

SJM, which currently operates nine satellite casinos, has indicated plans to acquire properties for Ponte 16 and Grand Lisboa Palace, subject to further negotiation. The company has confirmed it will not renew contracts for its seven remaining satellite venues, including Casino Casa Real and Casino Emperor Palace, after 2025.

Melco Resorts is also adjusting its operations, announcing it will close three Mocha Clubs by year-end. It is seeking regulatory approval to continue operating the remaining three clubs under the new legal framework.