MGM Resorts to invest in Genting?: MGM Resorts International has reportedly held talks with Singapore’s billionaire Lim family, the controlling shareholder of Genting Singapore Ltd., for a prospective takeover interest or investment in the Singapore-based casino operator. While the discussions did not result in an agreement, MGM reportedly could resume its pursuit. It has also led to many more potential investors considering a stake or takeover of Genting Singapore. Genting Singapore operates Resorts World Sentosa, the 49-hectare destination featuring over 550 gaming tables and more than 2,400 slot machines and other games, the Universal Studios Singapore theme park, a water park and restaurants. Genting Singapore’s listed parent, Malaysian conglomerate Genting Bhd., owns 53% of the business. MGM Resorts currently runs casinos across the U.S., Macau and Japan. Genting Singapore and Las Vegas Sands Corp. are the only two casino operators in Singapore. Singapore has been trying to compete with Macau, where the government has shut all the casinos after a recent outbreak of COVID-19.
Banyan Tree debuts in the Philippines: Banyan Tree Group, Singapore, will debut in the Philippines with Banyan Tree Residences Manila Bay in Manila, which is expected to open in the third quarter of 2025. Residence owners will enjoy access to Banyan Tree Sanctuary Club, a membership program which allows Banyan Tree Group property owners to receive benefits and privileges and use them in any of the group’s network of properties.
Canada resumes random COVID tests at airports: Canada is re-implementing the compulsory random COVID testing for air travelers flying into Canada from July 19. The random tests only for fully vaccinated travelers will be carried out at four airports — Vancouver, Montreal, Toronto and Calgary — and will be conducted offsite, either at in-person appointments at certain testing provider locations and pharmacies or using virtual appointments and self-swab tests. Unless they are exempt, unvaccinated visitors will have to test on days one and eight of their mandatory 14-day quarantine period. Compulsory random testing continues at the country’s land border points of entry. The random tests were suspended for five weeks to reduce wait times and ease bottlenecks but shifting the testing offsite will help the government to resume the measure.