The operators of Macau’s casinos are still adjusting their approach to baccarat side bets, says gaming scholar Ryan Ho Hong Wai from the Centre for Gaming and Tourism Studies at Macao Polytechnic University. Though these have become increasingly popular since 2024, especially with the implementation of smart table technology, finding the right mix is an evolving issue for the city’s gaming houses.

The Rise of Smart Table Technology and Side Bets

Baccarat side bets have become an industry favourite for their ability to enhance house edge margins significantly. Ho explained that smart table technology has positioned Macau casinos at the forefront of gaming innovation, allowing staff to manage the more intricate payout structures associated with complex side bets. These systems automatically calculate both actual and theoretical hold rates, providing operators with real-time performance data.

The success story extends beyond Macau. At Las Vegas Sands’ Marina Bay Sands property in Singapore, smart table implementation has shown impressive results. The theoretical hold rate on baccarat rolling chip tables increased from 3.5 percent in the third quarter of 2024 to 4.2 percent by the third quarter, demonstrating the real revenue effect from these innovations.