HKJC Phases Out Smart Card Services at Off-Course Betting Branches
HK01 · 1 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago4 MIN
Summary
The Hong Kong Jockey Club has announced plans to phase out its Smart Card (智財咭) service at off-course betting branches, citing successful digital transformation and the growing popularity of its integrated mobile betting application. The discontinuation will proceed in stages, with self-service machines losing Smart Card functionality from August 24, 2026, and counter services fully stopping from 2027 onwards. The card will remain usable at Sha Tin and Happy Valley racecourses during the transition period.
Key Points
- The Smart Card is an electronic betting card linking to individual wagering accounts for horse racing, football, and Mark Six betting
- The Club cites minimal customer usage and the success of its "Triple Integration" betting application as reasons for discontinuation
- Self-service ticket machines at off-course branches will cease Smart Card support on August 24, 2026
- Counter services supporting Smart Cards will be fully terminated from 2027, while the card remains operational at racecourses
- To reclaim the HK$20 deposit, cardholders must visit any off-course branch counter with the card and Hong Kong identity document
Why It Matters
The move signals the Club's commitment to full digitalization of its betting services, potentially affecting elderly or technologically hesitant customers who rely on the physical card. As Hong Kong's gambling landscape evolves toward app-based platforms, this transition reflects broader trends in financial technology adoption across the city's entertainment sector.
The move signals the Club's commitment to full digitalization of its betting services, potentially affecting elderly or technologically hesitant customers who rely on the physical card. As Hong Kong's gambling landscape evolves toward app-based platforms, this transition reflects broader trends in financial technology adoption across the city's entertainment sector.