Kuala Lumpur, 17 October 2025 — The odds are increasingly tilting in favor of Genting Malaysia Bhd’s Resorts World New York City (RWNYC) to be awarded one of the coveted Downstate New York (DNY) full casino licences, following the withdrawal of a key rival and a strengthened bid structure.
Analysts at CIMB Research argue that with MGM Empire City pulling out of the race ahead of the October 15 application deadline, RWNYC now faces fewer competitors — one fewer headwind in a tight licensing process.
MGM’s exit left three remaining contenders: RWNYC, Metropolitan Park, and Bally’s. CIMB notes that while the New York Gaming Facility Location Board (NYGFB) may still opt to award fewer than three licences, the probability of RWNYC succeeding is now “very high.”
RWNYC’s bid was among the most aggressive. The application reportedly included an offer of US$600 million for a 30-year licence, US$100 million above the minimum requirement, and proposed slots/table game tax rates of 56% and 30%, respectively.
However, the structure includes a caveat: if competing licensees negotiate lower tax terms, RWNYC may seek adjustments to maintain parity.
CIMB also highlights a strategic advantage: RWNYC could become the sole full-casino licensee in Downstate New York for up to four years, thanks to MGM’s exit and the structure of the licensing round. That exclusivity window could allow RWNYC to capture outsized gross gaming revenues during that period.
Genting’s U.S. arm had earlier submitted its final bid materials to the NYGFB on October 14, as part of the formal licensing process. Officials expect winning bidders to be announced by 1 December 2025, with licences issued by 31 December 2025.
As Genting awaits the final decision, the company’s confidence is bolstered by the clearing of a major competitor and its strong financial offer, which now look poised to cement its position in one of the world’s largest gaming markets.
