Growth in Las Vegas still struggling but gaming stocks continue to soar

The Bedford Report examines the outlook for companies in the Resorts & Casinos Industry and provides research reports on Las Vegas Sands and Melco Crown Entertainment.

Las Vegas faces many problems in terms of economic growth. According to a recent New York Times article, unemployment in Nevada is currently at a startling 14.4% - the highest of any state in the nation - and 14.7% in the city of Las Vegas. Over the last three years, much of the local economic downturn can be tied to the gambling industry, which has seen sharply declining revenues.

Despite the string of negative data coming out of Las Vegas, casino stocks have seen hefty gains in the last month. While Vegas is struggling, according to a recent report from The Wall Street Journal gambling revenue in Macau jumped 40 % in September. Both Las Vegas Sands and Melco Crown Entertainment generate over 75 % of their earnings from holdings outside of the United States.

In fact, 100% of Melco Crown's revenues are derived from Macau. The holding company operates the Mocha Club and Crown Macau gaming interests in Macau and is developing the City of Dreams casino and resort complex. While Melco's growth prospects in Macau are appealing, competition in Macau is heating up.

The Bedford Report releases regular market updates on the Resorts & Casinos Industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns.

Las Vegas Sands may go a step further to reflect its international presence. According to LVS spokesman Ron Reese, the company's billionaire CEO Sheldon Adelson is pushing to have the words "Las Vegas" removed from the company's name. Sands took in less than one-fifth of its us$ 1.59 billion in second-quarter revenue in Las Vegas. Reese said the name change could come as early as November, when Sands' board meets next.

The Bedford Report provides Analyst Research focused on equities that offer growth opportunities, value, and strong potential return. It strives to provide the most up-to-date market activities. We constantly create research reports and newsletters for our members.