MGM Resorts International CEO Bill Hornbuckle signaled that his company might consider acquiring People Inc., a major shareholder owned by Barry Diller, following People Inc.'s recent withdrawal of its $48.30-per-share bid to buy the rest of MGM. Hornbuckle emphasized that MGM aims to maximize shareholder value, highlighting the company's diversified assets, including BetMGM, its operations in Macao, an upcoming Japanese resort, and Las Vegas properties. Despite the previous bid's collapse, MGM is reportedly exploring an offer for People Inc., signaling ongoing strategic maneuvering in the casino and media sectors.

People Inc., formerly known as IAC, holds about 27% of MGM and has shown sustained interest in strategic options involving MGM despite stepping back from its takeover proposal. Hornbuckle praised Diller and People Inc. as excellent shareholders, pointing out Diller’s strong confidence in Las Vegas as a unique, irreplaceable hub of physical entertainment experiences that artificial intelligence cannot substitute. This view reflects MGM's focus on the enduring value of tangible gaming and resort experiences amid a changing technological landscape.

Meanwhile, Caesars Entertainment is progressing with a planned privatization by Fertitta Entertainment, in a deal valued at $17.6 billion including debt. Caesars CEO Tom Reeg explained that operating as a private entity offers a longer-term strategic outlook, contrasting with the short-term pressures public companies face. The combination aims to integrate Caesars’ casino and digital assets with Fertitta’s broader hospitality enterprises, though the transaction is under extended antitrust review by the FTC, with some divestitures likely but expected to be minor in impact.

Beyond Las Vegas, Wynn Resorts shared updates on its $600 million cost increase for the Wynn Al Marjan Island project in the UAE, attributing the rise partly to regional conflicts but maintaining the opening timeline for September 2027. Wynn’s CEO Craig Billings also downplayed the significance of overall visitation in Macao, emphasizing the focus on high-value customers. MGM similarly targets premium clientele there, increasing suite offerings. Meanwhile, MGM’s ambitious Osaka resort in Japan is underway, with Hornbuckle optimistic it could become a $2 billion cash-flow operation, benefiting from a projected multi-year head start in that market.