Macau Junket Commissions Approaching Junk Bond Yields?

06/20/08 10:51AM EDT
Only the government can save them now. VIP junket commissions up again, crimping margins. Short of government intervention, commissions may bump up against the break even rate of 1.5%.
  • This is a gross exaggeration I know, but I am increasingly alarmed by the junket price war. Our sources indicate that LVS may have boosted its commission again, from 1.25% of roll to 1.3%, and I think that MGM may have moved even higher than LVS. No indication on Crown but if I had to guess I'd say MPEL will or already has followed suit. The first exhibit examines the relationship between escalating junket commission rates and declining theoretical EBITDA margins on VIP revenues. I estimate the casino's break even on VIP business around a commission rate of 1.5%.
  • No word yet on WYNN but I'm skeptical that they can hold out any longer. WYNN has proven to be the best operator in Macau and their performance resilient despite an uncompetitive junket rate. At some junket rate, price will win over product, at least with some junkets and players. I'm not sure we are there yet but any market share loss or softening of its junket position could be a major dent to this Bugatti. WYNN's stock has been a massive outperformer relative to the group and deservedly so. Could WYNN's stock become a victim of its own success? Follow the junket rates and market share.
  • Todd Jordan Managing Director Gaming/Lodging/Leisure
© 2024 Hedgeye Risk Management, LLC. The information contained herein is the property of Hedgeye, which reserves all rights thereto. Redistribution of any part of this information is prohibited without the express written consent of Hedgeye. Hedgeye is not responsible for any errors in or omissions to this information, or for any consequences that may result from the use of this information.