News Summary
Bill Hornbuckle, CEO of MGM Resorts International, expressed a positive outlook for Las Vegas tourism despite recent visitor declines. At the Global Gaming Expo, he emphasized the need for operators to focus on customer value, rejecting claims of Las Vegas losing appeal. With average gaming revenue growth over 30 years and significant room bookings due to promotions, Hornbuckle believes the next 16 months could be transformative for the city’s tourism. He also highlighted MGM’s expansion plans and ongoing projects in other regions, reaffirming the company’s commitment to Las Vegas.
Las Vegas, NV – Bill Hornbuckle, CEO of MGM Resorts International, expressed optimism about the future of tourism in Las Vegas despite recent declines in visitation numbers. Addressing concerns about the tourism market at the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) in Las Vegas, Hornbuckle described negative headlines regarding the city’s tourism as “silly.” He emphasized the importance of operators focusing on customer value to ensure continued growth.
Hornbuckle’s appearance at the expo was part of his licensing process before the Nevada Gaming Control Board, where he received a positive recommendation for licensing approval pending review by the Nevada Gaming Commission. He highlighted that gaming revenue growth in Las Vegas has averaged between 4.5% to 5% over the past 30 years, showcasing a historical trend of resilience in the industry.
Drawing comparisons to the exceptional years of 2006 and 2007, Hornbuckle indicated that 2023 and 2024 hold similar promise for the region. While he could not provide specific financial data due to MGM being in a “quiet period” ahead of its earnings report, he did note a noticeable “bifurcation of markets,” whereby the luxury market is currently outperforming the value segment.
A promising development came from recent promotions by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, which offered discounted deals that increased room reservations substantially, from 150,000-160,000 to nearly 300,000 room nights. Hornbuckle firmly rejected claims that Las Vegas has lost its appeal as a tourism destination, reaffirming MGM’s commitment to investing and growing within the Las Vegas market.
In addition to expanding in Las Vegas, Hornbuckle indicated that MGM is exploring domestic opportunities in New York and Texas. He mentioned a significant $12.5 billion casino project currently under construction in Osaka, Japan, which is scheduled to open in 2030, and also referenced a non-gaming hotel development in Dubai with potential for future casino additions.
Furthering MGM’s diversification efforts, Hornbuckle pointed to the growth of the company’s digital business through its joint venture with Entain for BetMGM, which is expected to expand its footprint in Brazil as well.
Despite facing challenges, including a nationwide decline in Vegas tourism of approximately 10% year-over-year from June to August 2025, Hornbuckle remained resolute in his outlook for the city. Upcoming major events, such as Super Bowl 58 and the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, are expected to contribute positively to tourism figures.
Hornbuckle expressed his belief that the next 16 months could mark the strongest convention months in Las Vegas history, optimistic that the city’s attractions will continue to draw visitors, even with external factors affecting foot traffic.
In discussions about regulatory changes, he mentioned modifications to federal tax codes impacting gamblers and expressed hope for future amendments allowing deductions for gambling losses. He also briefly touched on the integration of artificial intelligence within MGM’s operations, particularly in call centers, while underscoring the enduring value of personal customer interactions.
Overall, Hornbuckle’s comments reflect a commitment not only to the immediate needs of MGM Resorts but also to the broader recovery and growth of Las Vegas as a premier tourism destination, maintaining a focus on both short-term strategies and long-term investments in the region.
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Additional Resources
- SI.com: MGM Resorts Unveils Pop-Ups for Las Vegas GP
- Wikipedia: Tourism in Las Vegas
- Review Journal: MGM Boss Says Las Vegas Future is Bright
- Google Search: Las Vegas tourism future
- Hotel Dive: MGM Resorts Restructures Executive Leadership
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Gaming Industry
- MGM Resorts Investor Relations: BetMGM 3Q 2025 Update
- Google News: MGM Resorts Las Vegas
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LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER The LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELasVegas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Las Vegas, Clark County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Electric Daisy Carnival, World Series of Poker, and Consumer Electronics Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce and Three Square Food Bank, plus leading businesses in hospitality and entertainment that power the local economy such as MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, and Las Vegas Sands. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Nevada's dynamic landscape.
