The Star casino warns investors of uncertain future




Against all odds, Star Entertainment has managed to avoid sliding into administration for now. But its near demise poses bigger problems for a glittering world that risks being consigned to a bygone era. Hong Kong investors Chow Tai Fook Enterprises and Far East Consortium, which each own 25 per cent of the Brisbane complex, had agreed to buy Star's 50 per cent stake for $53 million. In September last year, Star’s directors started getting advice on "safe harbour" provisions provided by the Corporations Act that would protect them from being personally liable for debts in the event that it cannot stay solvent.
The data used in our company analysis is from S&P Global Market Intelligence LLC. Motley Fool contributor Zach Bristow has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has positions in and has recommended Macquarie Group. The stock is down more than 58% in the past 12 months, and there's no saying when the sell-off might end – or if it will. There are many moving parts/challenges when considering Star Entertainment's earnings outlook with management's ability to execute the largest risk, particularly relating to cost-out and asset sales – likely beyond non-core. It cited a "degradation" in earnings expectations for FY25 due to Star's current set of challenges. Rather than seeing a potential bargin at these current levels, brokers are recommending investors steer clear of the company for now.
"Star put out a notice to staff on Friday assuring staff that they'll be paid this week, but that's yet to be seen, obviously," Mr Jones told Radio National Breakfast. NSW and Queensland governments said on Friday their main concern was to ensure jobs were protected. The 2022 inquiry determined that The Star Sydney had failed to protect itself from being used by criminal gangs to launder money in private high-roller junket rooms.