Leadership Transition Amid Strategic Momentum at MGM Resorts

A significant executive departure is underway at MGM Resorts, yet the casino and entertainment conglomerate continues to demonstrate robust strategic progress across its global operations. The announcement that Chief Operating Officer Corey Sanders will retire after more than three decades with the company coincides with major advancements in Las Vegas, international ventures, and digital gaming initiatives.

Executive Shift with Continuity Assured

Corey Sanders, who has served as COO for MGM Resorts, is set to retire at the end of 2025. To ensure operational stability and knowledge transfer, Sanders will remain with the organization in an advisory capacity to CEO Bill Hornbuckle through the conclusion of 2026. The company has indicated that a successor will be named within September, a timeline that market participants are monitoring closely given Sanders’ lengthy tenure and deep institutional knowledge.

Strategic Ventures Drive Growth

Concurrent with this leadership development, MGM is fortifying its market position through extended partnerships and expansion. The company has renewed its agreement with TKO Group Holdings, securing the T-Mobile Arena as the exclusive Las Vegas venue for UFC and WWE events through 2030. This arrangement guarantees a minimum of four UFC and two WWE events annually, providing a sustained revenue stream from premium live entertainment.

Should investors sell immediately? Or is it worth buying MGM Resorts?

The BetMGM digital gaming joint venture continues to outperform expectations. Following a strong second quarter, the platform has raised its 2025 financial outlook, now projecting net revenues of at least $2.7 billion and EBITDA of no less than $150 million. CEO Hornbuckle has reiterated the longer-term ambition of achieving $500 million in EBITDA from this segment.

Global Expansion Gains Traction

Internationally, MGM’s integrated resort project in Osaka remains on schedule for an autumn 2030 opening. The company has committed approximately $3 billion in equity to this venture, demonstrating substantial confidence in the Japanese market. Meanwhile, in Macau, the company’s operational recovery continues to impress, with its market share climbing to over 16%—a significant increase from the sub-10% level recorded prior to the pandemic.

Positioning for Sustained Success

This executive transition occurs during a period of notable strategic strength for MGM Resorts. While leadership changes often introduce near-term uncertainty, the company’s simultaneous progress in digital transformation, international development, and strategic partnerships suggests a resilient operational framework. The impending appointment of a new COO will serve as a critical indicator of how seamlessly the organization can navigate this forthcoming change while maintaining its current growth trajectory.