UPDATE: The Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City has just unveiled a stunning new 25,000-square-foot gaming floor dedicated exclusively to popular Asian casino games, including Pai Gow Poker, Sic Bo, and Baccarat. This strategic move comes as the global casino market is projected to surge by $132.17 billion between 2024 and 2028, targeting travelers from Asia who frequent multiple gambling venues.
The rollout of this new gaming section, which aims to attract Asian gamblers, was announced just ahead of the summer season, signaling a bold shift in the resort’s strategy. The Borgata, operated by MGM Resorts International, now employs casino staff fluent in Mandarin and Cantonese, as well as Korean and Vietnamese, to cater to this lucrative demographic.
Incorporating elements of Asian culture, the redesigned casino space features rich red and gold hues, which are traditionally associated with good fortune. Niklas Rytterstrom, President and COO of Borgata, stated, “From lucky colors and patterns, symbolic imagery for good fortune, and refined woodworking, our design team considered every element to deliver the splendor our guests expect.”
Adding to the experience, a new pan-Asian fusion restaurant, Noodles, has opened directly on the gaming floor, allowing visitors to enjoy a range of dishes—from Chinese barbecue to traditional dim sum—during gaming breaks. Previously located at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas, this beloved eatery returns with a menu that includes unique drinks like traditional sake and a creative twist on boba tea.
The evolving landscape of the gambling market is significant. A recent report from payment platform Inpay reveals that the Asian gambling market, including countries like China, Hong Kong, Japan, and South Korea, is valued at over $104 billion, accounting for 23% of global gambling revenue last year. U.S. casinos are moving quickly to capitalize on this trend, with Borgata leading the charge.
As the demand for Asian gaming options rises, experts predict that elite gamblers will increasingly travel between major casino hubs, impacting both Atlantic City and Las Vegas. Las Vegas Sands recently reported that $7.1 billion of its $11.3 billion revenue came from its Asian operations, highlighting the growing potential of this market.
Moving forward, industry leaders anticipate that the Macau gambling market will exceed $30 billion in gaming revenue by 2025. Robert Goldstein, CEO of Las Vegas Sands, expressed optimism in a recent earnings call: “We believe the Chinese economy will grow, and [the Macau] market will grow as well.”
This urgent update from Borgata not only reflects the shifting dynamics of the casino industry but also underscores a broader trend towards cultural inclusivity and tailored experiences for a diverse clientele. As the summer season approaches, all eyes will be on Atlantic City to see how these changes resonate with visitors.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and how it will shape the future of gaming in the United States.
