The Star Entertainment Evaluates Sale of Brisbane Stake as Financial Woes Persist
The Star Entertainment Group is in ongoing discussions with its Hong Kong-based partners, Chow Tai Fook Enterprises (CTFE) and Far East Consortium (FEC), regarding the potential sale of its 50% stake in the Destination Brisbane Consortium, which owns The Star Brisbane integrated resort. Both CTFE and FEC currently hold 25% stakes each in the consortium.
Chow Tai Fook Enterprises (CTFE) is a Hong Kong-based multinational conglomerate with investments spanning property development, hospitality, and retail. It is part of the Chow Tai Fook Group, known for its luxury jewelry brand and extensive real estate holdings across Asia and beyond. CTFE is also a major investor in global integrated resorts, including the Queen’s Wharf project in Brisbane.
A University Is Buying Star Entertainment’s Treasury Casino.
Far East Consortium (FEC), also based in Hong Kong, is a leading property development and investment company with operations in Asia, Australia, and Europe. It specializes in real estate, hospitality, and gaming investments, with a strong presence in Australia's hotel and residential sectors.
Financial Challenges Drive Sale Consideration
The potential sale comes as The Star faces significant liquidity issues, regulatory scrutiny, and recent fines. In January 2025, the company sold its Sydney Event Centre assets for A$60 million, as part of its broader cash flow improvement measures.
The Star Brisbane, which soft-launched in August 2024, has already added AU$1.6 billion (US$1 billion) in debt to the company’s balance sheet, requiring additional investments for full completion. The financial strain has prompted The Star to consider divesting assets to stabilize operations.
While discussions are still in progress, there is no guarantee that a sale will be finalized. The Star continues to explore alternative liquidity solutions while balancing its long-term growth plans with immediate financial recovery efforts. As the Brisbane casino project progresses, industry analysts anticipate further developments in asset restructuring within Australia’s gaming sector.
