Industry experts debate the next Las Vegas of Asia at SiGMA Asia 2025
As the global gaming industry gathers in Manila for the SiGMA Asia 2025 Summit, one panel tackled a question echoing across boardrooms and governments in Asia: Where is the next Las Vegas of Asia?
Moderated by Brady Hiscox, Managing Director at Cosanta Technology Group, the panel brought together industry heavyweights Joe Pisano (Founder & CEO, Jade Entertainment), Evan Spytma (CEO, Casino Plus), and Lucifer Morningstar (CEO, Lucifer Gaming). Together, they offered insights into where the next gaming boom might erupt and what might stand in its way.
Thailand as a promising contender
Thailand emerged as a front-runner in the conversation, with experts noting its immense tourism infrastructure and global appeal. Thailand is gonna thrive they are an entertainment hub for all the centre of East Asia, said Lucifer Morningstar, emphasising the countrys readiness beyond gaming.
However, the regulatory environment is still developing. Joe Pisano warned, Theyre going to wait for land-based [바카라s] to be built and live before they regulate online, noting that investor interest in integrated resorts could diminish if online competition is allowed too soon.
Pisano also pointed out the economic realities: If you can make a lot of money online, youre gonna think about, will I spend 5 billion or will I just spend 1 billion, go online and make the same money?
Sri Lanka: The dark horse
Another rising candidate is Sri Lanka. Pisano emphasised its strategic location and existing gaming footprint: You have 1.4 billion people right next door gamings been operating there for many years. With the pending Gaming Authority Bill and developments like City of Dreams Colombo, Sri Lanka could open up to global operators.
The yield per table is very high, he added, pointing to Sri Lankas low operational costs and existing workforce.
Philippines: The current leader
While other regions may have potential, the consensus was clear: the Philippines is currently the most viable and dynamic gaming hub in Asia.
If youre gonna place your bets somewhere theres no better place than right here in the Philippines, said Spytma, who lauded the country’s regulatory maturity and infrastructure.
Joe Pisano added, The Philippines has the best human resource in the region and also the best natural resource this can be one of the leading economies in Asia over the next 10 years.
With new integrated resorts underway and a booming online gaming market, the Philippines momentum is undeniable. Look at the numbers only in two years. Fantastic, said Pisano of the post-COVID online growth.
Japan, Taiwan, and others
Despite past hype around Japan, the panel was sceptical. MGM had groundbreaking in Osaka but even if they start today, itll be at least seven years, said Pisano. As for Taiwan, Morningstar was blunt: Its never gonna happen. Its wishful thinking.
Summing up the session, Pisano said, Philippines short term. Keep an eye on Thailand. And Sri Lankas your outside bet.
With Asias gaming map being redrawn, the race for the next Las Vegas is heating up and the SiGMA Asia summit remains the ideal venue to track every move.
If youre gonna bet on three markets short term and next 10 years, it has to be here [Philippines]. Joe PisanoWant more insights like these? Dont miss the next panels. Follow the SiGMA Asia 2025 agenda to stay ahead of the game.
