Part V: Regional & Cultural · Asia-Pacific Regional Terms

1.6 Satellite Casino

Macau — Operations

A satellite casino is a gaming property operated by a third-party entity under the gaming concession of one of Macau’s six concessionaires, rather than being directly owned and operated by the concessionaire itself. The satellite model emerged after the 2002 gaming liberalization and allowed independent operators to run casino properties using a concessionaire’s license. Under the 2022 gaming law amendments, satellite casinos were given a three-year transition period (ending December 31, 2025) to either come under direct management by the concessionaire or cease operations. As of late 2025, the last remaining satellite casino (Casino Landmark under SJM’s license) closed, effectively ending the satellite casino era in Macau.

In practice

At their peak, there were numerous satellite casinos, particularly under SJM’s license. SJM opted to close seven of nine satellites while acquiring two others under directly managed models.

One entry from the Casino Industry Glossary — 1,157 terms written for surveillance, compliance and operations professionals rather than for players. Definitions describe industry usage; where a term carries a regulatory meaning, verify against the instrument that governs your jurisdiction.