Gambling Landscape In Macau Could Change Without Ho

The big US-based casino companies may have invaded Macau, but that does not mean they have control over the gambling mecca. That distinction still belongs to the man who is responsible for casinos being in Macau in the first place.

Stanley Ho was the innovator that brought casino gambling to Macau. he had a nice monopoly over the gaming industry in Macau until 2002. Even after his monopoly ended, however, he still remains one of the most powerful gaming industry icons in the world.

The question must now be asked, who will take over for Ho when he finally leaves the business? Ho is not getting any younger at eighty-seven years old, and as evidenced by his recent surgery, his body is starting to feel the effects of his age.

"Politically and socially, Stanley Ho's absence comes at a very difficult time, both for his own companies as well as for the whole Macau gambling industry," said Carlos Lobo, a former legal advisor to the Macau Gaming Commission, as reported in The Wall Street Journal, "since he has long been the most influential figure in business."

Stanley Ho and his family account for over fifty percent of the gambling revenue in Macau. That is despite the fact that big companies such as Las Vegas Sands and MGM Mirage have moved into the territory. The large revenue Ho and his family create are just an example of how important he is to Macau.

Pansy Ho would be the most logical successor to Stanley. The daughter of the casino mogul is in the industry herself, but doubts remain about her taking over. In recent years, Pansy has tried to separate herself from her father's business interests in order to gain prominence in the US casino industry.

It is unknown when Stanley Ho will step away from the gaming business for good in Macau. What is known is the tremendous legacy he will leave behind, to whom, is anyone's guess.

August 6, 2009
Posted By Tom Jones
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
Submit News!

Wizard Of Oz Slot Pays Gambling Woman $1.6 Million in California
Ameristar Casinos Have Sharp Second Quarter Revenue Decline
Gambling Commences At FireKeepers Casino In Michigan
State Revenue For Tribal Casinos Down In Arizona
Underage Gambling Leads To Large Fine For Atlantic City Hilton