Sin City to Sports Heaven: Las Vegas as an Athletic Destination

The emergence of Las Vegas as a premier sports city wasn’t always a foregone conclusion, and its recent success isn’t unjustified—it’s been earned through persistence and execution. GMA Consulting Managing Director Josh Swissman helps explore how the city has cemented itself as a high-caliber sports destination.

Mirage to Close July 17 for Hard Rock Renovations

The iconic Mirage Hotel & Casino (l.) will close for good July 17 as its new owner, Hard Rock International, will begin large-scale renovations to the property, rebranding it as the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

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Encore Boston Harbor Plans Put on Hold

Wynn Resorts is looking to build off of Encore Boston Harbor’s (l.) success with a major expansion. But issues over taxes and fees have put the plans on hold.

Thailand to Minimize Gaming in Proposed IRs

If Thailand OKs a plan to develop integrated casino resorts, the emphasis will be on non-gaming attractions, says Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat. Gaming floors could occupy about 5 percent of total space.

Bulgaria’s Gambling Ad Ban Becomes Law

Amendments to Bulgaria’s Gambling Law, voted without opposition, became law after President Rumen Radev declined to veto them. However, media outlets, gaming operators and sports clubs are calling foul.

Minnesota Racino Expands Federal Lawsuit

Running Aces racino in Columbus, MN expanded its federal lawsuit from three to five casinos, alleging the casinos illegally offered unauthorized games, giving them “illegal and unfair competitive advantages.”

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Malaysian PM: No Dice on Second Casino

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim (l.) has once again shot down speculation that government leaders and global gaming companies were discussing a second casino in the country.

Galaxy Macau to Introduce Smart Tables in July

Come July, Galaxy Entertainment in Macau will install its first “smart gaming tables” equipped with RFID chips. The tables alert operators to cheating and also provide valuable customer data.

Macau Looks to Boost Tourism with Visa Program

China has added eight cities to the Individual Visa Scheme for Macau to shore up a flagging tourism sector. Macau Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng said the SAR hopes to host more international events.

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Henry Birch in Running for Entain CEO

Henry Birch (l.), former chief executive officer of the Rank Group, is in the running to be CEO of Entain. The company’s former CEO Jette Nygaard-Andersen resigned last year.

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Proponents of Brazilian Gambling Cite Tourism

Supporters and foes of casinos, bingo halls, horse racing wagering and “jogo do bicho” in Brazil are debating whether it would benefit tourism. A hearing was held before the Senate's Constitution and Justice Committee (CCJ).

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New York Bill Would Legalize Online Poker

Senator Joseph Addabbo has introduced Bill 9226 in the New York Senate. The bill would legalize online poker and tax it at 15 percent. It would also put it under the umbrella of the New York State Gaming Commission.

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Alabama Lawmaker Discusses Gaming Bill Failure

Alabama House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter (l.) recently said that there “just wasn’t enough time” to pass gambling legislation in the recent session. Residents want more regulation of illegal gambling but without enforcement, so “nothing will change.”

Bally’s Receives RG Check Accreditation

Bally’s has been recognized by RG Check, the comprehensive gambling accreditation program. Bally’s Chicago also has formed partnerships with the Illinois Council on Problem Gambling and the Midwest Asian Health Association in Chicago.

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Louisiana Regulator Ronnie Johns Announces Retirement

Louisiana Gaming Control Board Chairman Ronnie Johns (l.) will retire June 30, after 37 years of public service. Johns oversaw the launch of sports betting in 2021, which now generates $100 million in annual revenue for the state.

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Emmett Opposes PlayAGS Takeover Bid

Money manager Emmett Investment Management is urging investors of slot and table game supplier PlayAGS to reject a $1.1 billion takeover by Brightstar Capital Partners.

Games Global Delays IPO

Games Global has postponed the launch of its initial public offering, citing “continuous positive performance” for the online gaming content supplier.

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