NEW YORK Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown gaming, lodging and leisure analyst Mark Mutkoski recently published a new report entitled “Biloxi Blues?” The report examines the long-term outlook of the Gulf Coast casino market, which consists of Biloxi, Gulfport, Bay St. Louis, and New Orleans.
Despite present challenges of the Gulf Coast, Mutkoski believes the market has the critical mass of gaming and lodging amenities necessary to further develop into a regional tourist destination. “The Gulf Coast has historically been one of the fastest growing casino markets since the inception of gaming in Mississippi in 1992. With the opening of Beau Rivage in March 1999, and Harrahs Jazz the following October, the competitive environment has changed dramatically,” states Mutkoski. “We are cautious over the short term, but believe the Gulf Coast should see solid growth over the long-term.” (12/19/00)