Atlantic City (N.J.) Casinos Reopen

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie on Friday announced the reopening of Atlantic City casinos and lifted the mandatory evacuation order for the city's residents.

The announcement comes after a report from Fitch Ratings that said while casinos would likely re-open relatively quickly, infrastructure damage could limit the ability of employees and customers to get to the properties.

"Fitch believes the longer term effects on physical infrastructure and consumer sentiment in New Jersey and surrounding states could have a material impact on fourth-quarter gaming demand," the report said.

Atlantic City's 12 gambling properties did not experience the type of physical damage from Hurricane Sandy that would prevent reopening.

Fitch said the relatively modest damage to the casinos themselves will limit the storm's impact on cash flow.

"The bigger question for the industry remains the status of roadways and other infrastructure in the Atlantic City and feeder areas," analysts said.

"We also believe that regular customers in the region may be preoccupied for some time with storm recovery, potentially lowering visitation volumes for a few weeks."

The state of New Jersey receives a portion of its revenues from an 8% tax on the gross revenues of all casinos.

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