Gaming stocks extended their gains during afternoon trading, with MELCO INT'L DEV (00200) rising 5.03% to HK$5.64, GALAXY ENT (00027) climbing 3.08% to HK$42.9, SJM HOLDINGS (00880) advancing 2.59% to HK$3.17, and MGM CHINA (02282) gaining 1.72% to HK$16.01 as of press time.

On the news front, the Macau SAR government ordered casino closures from 5 PM on September 23 until 2 AM on September 25, lasting 33 hours, as a precautionary measure against Super Typhoon Koinu. HSBC noted that the casino shutdowns could further dampen off-season demand ahead of the National Day Golden Week.

However, analysts remain optimistic about the approaching Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day "Super Golden Week," with tourism's robust recovery providing long-term confidence for gaming stocks. Goldman Sachs previously issued a research report stating that gaming companies generally expect strong demand for the October Golden Week, based on nearly fully booked hotels and client communications, while the National Games are not expected to significantly impact gaming revenues.

Zhongtai International also pointed out that leading gaming stocks would benefit if visitor numbers and casino revenues perform well during September and the National Day period.