Inside Asian Gaming

inside asian gaming November 2017 30 EYE ON JAPAN Ideally, that growth path would include all or part of an IR in Japan. Some believe controversies attached to Okada Manila plus the Philippines’ poor probity reputation make owning it, or any Philippine casino, an impediment to IR success in Japan. But sources in Japan and beyond see it differently. “The Okada Manila project improves Universal’s chances of winning a bid for an IR license – well, except for the name,” Global Market Advisors Senior Partner Andrew Klebanow says. “I do not see Universal offloading Okada Manila any time soon. This is a flagship project for the company and one that can be used to demonstrate to the IR selection committee that Universal is capable of developing and operating large-scale integrated resorts. That is going to emerge as a very important issue as Japan begins to evaluate development proposals. “Never underestimate the importance of being a Japanese company, particularly one with a long history of gaming in Japan. Feature In Focus Having a Japanese partner or being a Japanese company can be a critical success factor in winning a bid for a coveted IR license.” Universal’s pachinko and pachislot experience also matters, Mr Klebanow argues. “With all due respect to Konami, there is not a company out there that has a better understanding of the kinds of electronic games Japanese enjoy playing, and with the experience in designing, building, opening and operating an IR, Universal remains in a good position to compete for a license,” he adds. Mr Okada’s dismissal could also boost Universal’s prospects as an IR partner. Beyond his legal and ethical legacy, Mr Okada has a well- earned reputation as a volatile maverick. Those aren’t ideal qualities for a partner in any situation, but may be especially unwelcome in what’s likely to be a fastidious Japanese casino regulatory environment. In the end, Okada Manila may well help Universal realize Kazuo Okada’s dream of owning a casino in Japan – and his own ouster could help make his wish come true. Pagcor chief Andrea Domingo