A recent study conducted by researchers at universities in Macau and mainland China has found a concerning link between higher minimum wagers at table games and increased levels of debt among gamblers in Macau. The study revealed that 32.7 percent of individuals who reached out to gambling helplines between 2015 and 2021 owed more than MOP200,000 (US$25,000), which is more than double the amount owed by gamblers in mainland China or Hong Kong. Additionally, nine percent of these individuals carried debt exceeding MOP1 million (US$124,400).
The report attributes this disproportionate debt to the minimum wagers at Macau casinos, which can be as high as $35 per hand. During peak periods such as weekends and holidays, minimum bets can range from HK$500 (US$64) to HK$1,000 (US$128) per hand, as reported by Asia Gaming Brief.
The study, titled “Characteristics of Gambling Helpline Callers in Macau: A Regional Comparison,” was a collaborative effort between researchers at the Center for Gaming and Tourism Studies at Macau Polytechnic University, the School of Tourism Management at Macau University of Science and Technology, and Guangzhou Xinhua University. The findings revealed that individuals seeking help and counseling for gambling problems had been struggling with such issues for an average of 7.3 years, with approximately 60 percent of them being table game players.
Interestingly, the study highlighted that Macau helpline callers tended to be younger, raising concerns about the growing trend of young individuals and students from Hong Kong facing gambling-related problems. As a result, the researchers recommended that Macau, mainland China, and Hong Kong work together to share information on statistical trends, effective treatment methods, and prevention strategies.
Furthermore, the study proposed incorporating educational initiatives into school curricula to educate young people about the potential risks associated with gambling. By increasing awareness and providing information on the harms of gambling, it is believed that the onset of gambling problems among the youth could be prevented.
In conclusion, the study sheds light on the negative impact of high minimum wagers on gambling debt in Macau and emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts and educational initiatives to address this growing issue. By raising awareness, sharing information, and implementing preventive measures, it is hoped that the prevalence of gambling-related problems in the region can be reduced.
