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Melco Resorts Embraces Asset-Light Expansion Beyond Macau
2 Aug
Summary
- Melco Resorts plans to expand beyond Macau through co-run casino projects
- CEO Lawrence Ho aims to reduce debt and capture growth in emerging markets
- Melco opens its first project under the new strategy in Sri Lanka
As of August 2, 2025, Melco Resorts & Entertainment Ltd. has been actively pursuing an expansion strategy beyond its traditional stronghold of Macau. The company's CEO, Lawrence Ho, revealed in a recent interview that Melco is now in talks to ramp up an asset-light approach, partnering with local players to co-run large-scale casino projects in emerging markets.
This shift in strategy is aimed at helping Melco reduce its debt burden while also tapping into growth opportunities in regions outside of Macau. Ho, who also founded the company, explained that the new model will see Melco team up with local partners to develop and operate multi-billion-dollar casino resorts, rather than taking on the full ownership and investment.
The CEO's comments come as Melco is set to open its first project under this new collaborative approach. The company is currently in the process of launching a casino resort in Colombo, Sri Lanka, marking its initial foray into the South Asian market. This move is part of Melco's broader efforts to diversify its geographic footprint and reduce its reliance on the Macau gaming hub.
By embracing an asset-light strategy, Melco aims to capture growth opportunities in emerging economies while also strengthening its financial position. The company believes this approach will allow it to expand its brand and customer base more efficiently, without the burden of heavy capital investments.
