While the main casino floor is filled with casual tourists playing penny slots, a completely different world exists behind closed doors.

To attract these massive bankrolls, casinos employ dedicated VIP hosts whose entire job is to cater to their every whim.

How Much Do You Need to Bet to be a Whale?

Whales are the absolute apex predators of the gambling world, often placing $50,000 to $100,000 on a single hand of Baccarat.

There are estimated to be fewer than 500 legitimate whales operating globally, primarily wealthy businessmen from Asia and the Middle East.

• Whales rarely play on the main floor; they gamble in private salons hidden deep within the resort, away from the public eye
• Baccarat is the undisputed game of choice for whales due to its fast pace, massive betting limits, and low house edge
• Because their action is so large, whales often negotiate 'loss rebates', where the casino agrees to refund 10% to 20% of their total losses

What Do Casinos Give Away to High Rollers?

To ensure the whale loses their money at their specific property, the casino will cover absolutely all expenses for their entire entourage.

If a whale wants front-row tickets to a sold-out championship boxing match, the casino will simply buy the seats at an exorbitant markup.

They exist in a parallel universe of luxury, where millions of dollars change hands in the blink of an eye.