Newport World Resorts: Mass Market and Online Gaming Boost Profits to $9.2 Million

A significant structural shift is occurring in Manila's gaming industry. Travellers International Hotel Group Inc., the operator of Newport World Resorts, presented stellar figures for the second quarter of 2026. While business with so-called VIP customers noticeably slowed down, the mass market and especially the online gaming sector emerged as new engines of growth. This development indicates that the industry is increasingly moving away from reliance on a few high rollers, opting instead for a broader customer base.

The resilience of digital channels is particularly striking. At a time when physical casinos worldwide are struggling with changing guest demographics, online platforms offer a stable source of income. Through efficient cost management and an optimized revenue mix, the company was able to significantly increase its EBITDA. This performance lays the groundwork for ambitious expansion plans to be implemented within the year 2026.

Numbers and facts

The net income of $9.2 million marks a doubling compared to the same period last year. EBITDA climbed by 13 percent to an impressive PHP 4.4 billion, approximately $71.7 million. A look at the Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) excluding VIP customers is interesting: it rose by 6 percent to PHP 9.6 billion ($156 million). Total net revenue for the quarter was PHP 15.2 billion or $248 million.

The non-gaming sector, including hotels, restaurants, and entertainment, also contributed significantly to the success. Gross non-gaming revenue increased by 12 percent to PHP 3.9 billion ($63.5 million). Kevin Tan, President and CEO of the parent company Alliance Global Group, sees this as a confirmation of their diversification strategy.

„Gaming business increased earnings despite the industry moving away from VIP play, and the spirits business expanded through a stronger portfolio.“ - Kevin Tan, President and CEO of Alliance Global Group

Background

Alliance Global Group, the parent company of Travellers International, underwent a strategic realignment in March 2026. By deconsolidating the Golden Arches Development Corporation (GADC), the master franchisee for McDonald’s in the Philippines, the focus shifted more toward real estate, gaming, tourism, and spirits. Despite this accounting change, the group reported a net income of PHP 16.0 billion ($261 million) for the period, a 3 percent increase.

To maintain momentum, Travellers is investing heavily in infrastructure. The opening of Narra Palm Resorts and Villas is imminent. Furthermore, the Westside Resort in Entertainment City is scheduled to begin operations before the end of 2026. These new capacities are intended to ensure the operator remains flexible even during cyclical market fluctuations.

Why it matters for German players

For German players, reports on Philippine giants like Newport World Resorts serve primarily as a cautionary signal regarding regulation. While digital platforms often expand aggressively in Asia, the market in Germany is subject to the strictest rules under the Interstate Treaty on Gambling 2021 (GlüStV 2021). German customers should ensure they play exclusively with providers listed on the official whitelist of the Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde der Länder (GGL). This whitelist guarantees that protection mechanisms, such as the monthly deposit limit of 1,000 euros and the stake limit of 1 euro per spin on virtual slots, are maintained.

The LUGAS system also ensures that limits are monitored across different providers. Playing at a Philippine provider without a German license is illegal and results in the loss of any legal protection regarding winnings. While German licenses impose stricter limits, they effectively protect against gambling addiction and fraud.

What it means for GGL-licensed casinos

The trend toward the mass market and away from VIP systems seen in Manila is mirrored in German strategy. Since high rollers are heavily restricted by the 1,000-euro limit in Germany, GGL-licensed casinos must make their offerings attractive to casual players. The success of Newport World Resorts' digital platforms shows that technological innovation and a broad game selection are crucial. However, German operators must balance attractive entertainment with harsh regulatory requirements, such as the 5.3 percent gaming tax on stakes.