NEWS & NOTES

New York City lobbyists have seen a jump in compensation as the state considers applications for a downstate casino. Compensation for lobbyists rose 8 percent last year, from $121.15 million in 2022 to $130.96 million. Entities tied to Mets billionaire owner Steve Cohen and Seminole Hard Rock Entertainment led the trend, spending more than $2 million combined on a stable of lobbyists last year.  •   Ukraine’s gaming industry paid record taxes to the Ministry of Finance in February, the ministry reported March 6, according to Yogonet.The sector paid $0.047 billion taxes and fees, a 370 percent increase from the previous month when the industry paid $10.5 million. Last August Ukraine brought back an 18 percent turnover tax on internet gaming. The government has also ramped up enforcement against black market gambling, especially Russian gaming companies operating within its borders. Ukraine has vowed to eliminate all gambling that contributes to the Russian economy.   •   Last week, police in Thailand announced the bust of a major online gambling network. Law enforcement arrested four suspects and seized approximately US$8.9 million in cash assets.According to VNA News, Thailand’s Technology Crime Suppression Bureau conducted raids across 12 locations, primarily upscale residential units in Bangkok. In addition to cash, they confiscated seven luxury cars, millions in gold ornaments and amulets, as well as real estate with an estimated value of $3.5 million. The illicit iGaming network known as “fullplays39” reportedly had 200,000 registered members and a monthly cash flow of $13.4 million. Arrest warrants were issued for 16 others suspected of working for the racket. According to Yogonet, the wanted individuals were primarily involved in opening “mule” bank accounts for the operation.  •  The Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa and BetMGM Poker will host the Borgata Spring Poker Open April 29-May 14, 2024 at the resort in Atlantic City. The series includes three anchor events with more than $4 million in guarantees.  ●  On February 29, Bally’s introduced a new Bally’s Bet mobile sportsbook in Evansville, Indiana. Bally’s President George Papanier said the company is “very proud” to offer the sportsbook in Indiana, “a state with a coveted sports history and a legion of loyal fans.”  ●