By Jess Marquez   Tue, Feb 18, 2025

In this episode we sit down with Steven Myers and Robert Montgomery, founders of an innovative new gaming ESG initiative known as FiNTEL Sustain. 

This may come as a shock, but the global gaming industry isn’t always held in the best light. Some of this has to do with external factors, but the industry itself is not always its best advocate. With regard to investment, this often manifests in flawed or nonexistent ESG reporting and practices. Two veterans of the industry, Steven Myers and Robert Montgomery, have sought to change that with the launch of FiNTEL Sustain, a revolutionary new sustainability and ESG initiative that aims to highlight the victories and identify the weaknesses of the industry’s biggest companies. Both men spoke with GGB Managing Editor Jess Marquez at ICE Barcelona in January.

By Bruce Merati   Tue, Feb 18, 2025

Prediction markets have emerged as a new kind of gray-area sector that blends wagering with economic trading. But many, including Bruce Merati (l.), argue that they are simply betting platforms that regulators should take heed of.

The gaming industry has long been a battleground for innovation, regulation, and a source of tax revenue for the states. In recent years, the rise of sports betting has transformed the landscape, with nearly 40 states legalizing, regulating, and taxing wagering activities. 

However, the emergence of platforms like Kalshi and Crypto.com, which have started offering bets on sports under the guise of predictive markets, is sparking a contentious question: Are these platforms simply sports betting platforms in disguise, and if so, should they be subject to the same state-level regulations that govern traditional sports betting? The answer, as the old adage goes, is clear: if it looks like a duck and walks like a duck, it is a duck.

Historically and legally, the right to offer and regulate sports betting has been the domain of individual states. This framework was solidified by the Supreme Court’s 2018 decision to repeal the Professional and Amatuer Sports Protection Act (PASPA), empowering states to legalize the business and set their own rules. 

Since then, the majority of states have embraced legalized sports betting, creating a robust regulatory environment that ensures consumer protection, prevents fraud, and generates significant tax revenue. These regulations are not arbitrary; they are designed to uphold the integrity of sports and protect the financial interests of states.

Kalshi, a platform that is looking to offer betting on the outcome of sporting events under the banner of predictive markets, argues that its offerings are legal at the federal level and fall under the jurisdiction of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), not state gaming regulators. However, it remains unclear whether the CFTC has already approved or will approve Kalshi’s foray into peer-to-peer sports betting. Similarly, Crypto.com has ventured into sports-related wagering, further blurring the lines between traditional sports betting and predictive markets.

The crux of the issue lies in the format of these offerings. It is not just a legal gray area; it is a direct challenge to the authority of states to regulate gaming within their borders. Bypassing the regulations that states have created to ensure accountability, transparency, and protection for both operators and consumers is a major issue. Kalshi and similar platforms contend that their predictive markets are fundamentally different from traditional sports betting. They argue that their models are based on financial principles rather than gambling and, therefore, should not be subject to state-level gaming regulations. 

But this argument overlooks a fundamental truth: if you take a bet on the outcome of a sporting event, it doesn’t matter what the format is—it is still a bet on sports. Whether it’s offered as a binary option, a futures contract, or a straight wager, the underlying activity is the same.

State regulators have been clear: anyone offering sports betting must obtain the appropriate licenses and comply with state rules. These rules are not just bureaucratic hurdles; they are critical safeguards designed to protect the integrity of the industry. State regulators require operators to implement a number of checks and balances, including anti-money laundering (AML) protocols, measures to prevent match-fixing, and tools to ensure responsible gambling. These requirements are not optional—they are essential to maintaining the reputation of the business and the trust of consumers.

If platforms like Kalshi and Crypto.com are allowed to operate outside this framework, it could undermine the integrity of the entire system. It would create an uneven playing field, where some operators are subject to strict oversight while others operate with impunity. More importantly, it would expose the industry to significant risks, including money laundering, fraud, and the manipulation of sporting events.

The gaming industry cannot afford to ignore this issue. State regulators have long held that anyone offering sports betting must obtain proper licensing within each jurisdiction where they operate. The broader gaming industry—from operators to regulators—has invested significant resources in creating a stable and well-regulated market. If predictive markets are allowed to circumvent state regulations, it could set a dangerous precedent. 

Other operators might follow suit, claiming that their offerings are not technically sports betting and therefore exempt from state oversight. This would erode the regulatory framework that has been carefully constructed over the past few years, jeopardizing consumer protections and state revenues.

The solution is straightforward: if a platform offers bets on the outcome of sporting events, it should be treated as a sports betting operator, regardless of the format. State regulators must take a firm stance on this issue, ensuring that all operators comply with existing laws and regulations. The CFTC and other federal agencies should work in tandem with state regulators to clarify the boundaries of predictive markets and ensure that they do not encroach on the domain of sports betting.

Ultimately, the principle is simple. If it looks like a duck and walks like a duck, it is a duck. Platforms like Kalshi and Crypto.com may dress up their offerings in the language of predictive markets, but at their core, they are offering bets on sports. As such, they must play by the same rules as everyone else. The integrity of the gaming industry—and the authority of state regulators—depends on it. Without the necessary checks and balances, the industry risks losing the trust of consumers and the credibility it has worked so hard to build.

By Jill Dorson   Thu, Feb 13, 2025

The years-long quest to bring gaming to Texas has begun anew, following the introduction of a sports betting bill. Will this finally be the year for the Lone Star State?

Texas Rep. Sam Harless filed the first gambling bill of the state’s legislative session Feb. 12. The constitutional amendment would send the decision to legalize sports betting to state voters in November, per iGB.

HJR 134 appears to call only for retail sports betting, though it does not explicitly prohibit digital wagering. It would allow for professional sports teams, PGA Tour stops and Class I racetracks to become licensed. The proposal requires that any potential licensees be in existence as of Jan. 1, 2025. Licensees would be able to work with management service providers to operate sportsbooks.

There is no framework in the constitutional amendment and the language is vague:

The constitutional amendment authorising the legislature to legalise wagering in this state on certain sporting events.

Other state legislatures, including Louisiana and Maryland, have gone down similar pathways. Should voters approve in Texas as they did in those states, the legislature would then be tasked with developing a framework for legal betting. Included in that would be determining if digital betting is part of the package. Voters in Louisiana and Maryland legalised in 2020 and brick-and-mortar sportsbooks opened in 2021 in both states. Digital platforms went live in 2022.

By Nicole Macedo   Thu, Feb 13, 2025

For Entain, the appointment of Gavin Isaacs as CEO represented a much-needed sense of stability. Less than six months later, Isaacs is out, and the operator again faces an uncertain future.

Entain CEO Gavin Isaacs stepped down from his role on Feb. 11, effective immediately.

Isaacs joined the group in September 2024 from Games Global in the U.S. Although Entain did not give a reason for the decision, an investor update said Isaacs’ departure was a “mutual” decision, and the board was pleased with the company’s performance in 2024.

Entain’s non-executive chair and previous interim CEO, Stella David, will resume the role while a permanent replacement for Isaacs is found.

Throughout his career, Isaacs has served as chair of Games Global and previously held board roles at DraftKings, Jackpocket and SBTech.

Upon joining Entain Isaacs was handed a basic annual salary of $1.1 million, and he was entitled to a long-term incentive plan equivalent to 450 percent of his basic salary.

His pay package also included a 6 percent pension allowance and relocation assistance to support his move from the U.S. to the U.K.

The company also provided a buy-out award to compensate for awards forfeited as Isaacs stepped down from Games Global chair to join Entain.

By Jess Marquez   Thu, Feb 13, 2025

Cannibalization continues to polarize Marylanders, Tysons casino dies in subcommittee, new anti-online gambling group emerges and more.

In Maryland, Industry Rift Over iGaming Apparent

As during a state senate hearing last month, a Feb. 10 Maryland House hearing on iGaming displayed an industry at odds, according to iGB.

The house ways and means committee held a four-plus hour hearing on Feb. 10 on Rep. Vanessa Atterbeary’s HB 17. The bill would allow for statewide online casino licences tethered to existing casinos and digital sports betting licensees. It differs from a bill that passed through the House in 2024. Atterbeary said that in response to her colleagues’ concerns, HB 17 would ban funding accounts by credit cards.

She also suggested that a constitutional amendment might not be needed to add iGaming. Traditionally, any expansion of gaming in Maryland has gone to the voters. But Atterbeary pointed to the three referendums in Maryland that legalised video lottery terminals (2008), table games at land-based casinos and the addition of a sixth casino (2012) and in-person and online sports betting (2020). She said the voters have already spoken and embrace digital casino.

Atterbeary also touched on a subject that has become a top-level concern for the gambling industry – sweepstakes. The unregulated digital gaming platforms operate across the U.S., mostly in a gray area. That means they are not explicitly legal or illegal. The sites draw players in with free-to-play games, but consumers can ultimately buy and win “coins” or “tokens.”

Atterbeary and proponents of her bill said a legal market can create a framework to help tamp down the black market. She shared that the state had already sent letters to 12 sweepstakes operators. Surprisingly, she said, six replied and said they believe their business is legal in Maryland. But the state has no law it can cite to stop them.

Tysons Casino Efforts All but Dead for This Session

In Virginia, the push to bring a casino to Fairfax County near Tysons looks to be dead for this year after Senate Bill 982 did not advance out of a House subcommittee Feb.12. Normally, this would not be a death sentence, but that particular subcommittee does not have another meeting scheduled for this session.

SB 982 had been introduced by Sen. Scott Surovell, after a similar bill from Sen. Dave Marsden also failed last year. Surovell’s office confirmed to Virginia Business that the bill is “essentially” finished, although there is an outside chance that a House committee member could bring the bill back.

The movement has been very controversial, and has been especially opposed by Fairfax County lawmakers and constituents. Virginia has seen a flurry of casino activity in recent years, with facilities now in Norfolk, Bristol, Danville, Portsmouth and Petersburg.

“The voice of the people was finally heard today,” Paula Martino, president of the Tysons Stakeholders Alliance, said in a statement. “Thank you to the members of the Senate who voted no and to the House of Delegates for listening to the thousands of Fairfax County residents who expressed their opposition to the Tysons casino legislation. If this bill had passed, it would have not only wreaked havoc on our county and region, but it would have set a bad precedent in circumventing local authority and the will of the local community.”

New Anti-IGaming Group Forms

The National Association Against iGaming (NAAiG) Feb. 11 announced its formation and released an Innovation Group study that “debunks the myth that iGaming offers easy revenue for states.” According to a press release, the study shows that land-based casino revenue dropped 16 percent “on average” after iGaming was introduced in a state. The study also points to job losses when iGaming is introduced as well “significant losses” in economic output.

In the press release and on its website NAAiG does not indicate who its members are, though representatives from Churchill Downs, Inc. (CDI), the Cordish Companies and Monarch Casino are all quoted. Executives from Churchill Downs and the Cordish Companies have testified against iGaming expansion in several states over the last six months.

“iGaming is eroding our communities,” Shannon McCracken, Senior Director of Government Relations at CDI and NAAIG board member said in the press release. “This isn’t just about responsible gaming—it’s about protecting local family sustaining jobs and preventing financial harm. In Maryland alone, iGaming could cost $372 million in economic output, $342.6 million in lost casino revenue and nearly $110 million in annual wages. We must act now to protect our state and local economies nationwide.”

Google to Ban Affiliates From Promoting Social Casinos

Google on Feb. 10 released updated guidelines that include a ban on aggregators and affiliates promoting social casino games. The company says it will only allow the promotion of legal gambling and will require aggregators and affiliates to be licensed with Google. Failure to gain proper certification could result in an “account being prohibited from running ads until you apply for and receive certification,” according to a press release.

Google defines social casinos as “online simulated gambling-style games where there is no opportunity to win something of value.”

In the U.S., certified companies can advertise legal horse racing, lotteries, lottery couriers, online casinos and sports betting. Any advertising must include a warning about “addictive and compulsive gambling and related assistance information on the landing page or in the creative,” and cannot be targeted to those under the age of 21. In addition, according to the release, gambling advertisers may only promote gambling in legal gambling states.

The new guidelines indicate that there are 55 legal gambling countries in the world, and have a section with specific rules for each country.

Owensboro Racing & Gaming Opens in Kentucky

Churchill Downs’ (CDI) latest historical horse racing (HHR) casino, Owensboro Racing & Gaming, opened Feb. 12 in Owensboro, Ky. The 71,500-square-foot, $100 million facility features 600 HHR machines, a sportsbook, simulcast wagering and dining options. It will support purse funding for nearby Ellis Park in Henderson.

“Today marks an exciting milestone for our company as we expand our footprint in western Kentucky and further strengthen our commonwealth’s signature horse racing industry,” CDI CEO Bill Carstanjen said in a statement. “Owensboro’s newest entertainment destination will drive new tourism, entertainment and economic opportunities in eastern Daviess County.”

Mount Airy Casino Hit with Lawsuit Over Tips, Overtime

Pennsylvania’s Mount Airy Casino Resort has been hit with a class-action lawsuit in the U.S. District Court in the Middle District of Pennsylvania by former employees who allege that the casino failed to pay more than $5 million in wages and overtime to table games dealers.

According to a Feb. 11 report from the Times-Tribune, the suit alleges that the casino committed four violations: improperly claiming a tip credit and failing to inform employees, distributing pooled tips of hourly employees to “dual-rate supervisors,” improperly rounding time clock hours and miscalculating pay rates for overtime purposes. The suit is a class action because of the large number of employees who were potentially impacted.

Former NV Governor Named to Resorts World Las Vegas Board

Resorts World Las Vegas (RWLV) announced Feb. 10 that Brian Sandoval, current president of the University of Nevada, Reno and former governor of Nevada, has been named to the casino’s newly established board of directors. Sandoval now joins existing board members Jim Murren, A.G. Burnett, Michelle DiTondo and Tan Kong Han.

“Governor Sandoval’s leadership, vision, and extensive experience in both government and the gaming industry make him an extraordinary addition to our team,” RWLV CEO Alex Dixon said in a statement. “His appointment accelerates the property’s growth strategy.”

ICRG Relocates to Las Vegas

The International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) has completed its relocation from Beverly, Mass., where it had been located since its inception, to Las Vegas, Nev. Christine Reilly, who had served as executive director from the beginning, lived in the Boston area but retired in 2024.

“We came to Vegas for several reasons,” ICRG President Art Paikowsky told CDC Gaming. “Most of our funders — Sands, MGM, and Caesars and Aristocrat on the slot-machine side — are based here, so it gives us immediate access. In the three and a half years I’ve been in this job, I’ve gone to the Boston office twice. I’m here all the time. We’re also making a statement that there’s no place like Vegas when it comes to gambling.”

Study: Baby Boomers Fuel Betting Growth

TransUnion Feb. 10 released its annual “U.S. Betting Report,” and one of the more interesting takeaways is that there was an increase of bettors in the Baby Boomer and Gen X categories, while participation by Millennials dropped by five percent. The report also revealed 25 percent of those polled said they had bet in the fourth quarter of 2024 vs. 24 percent in the fourth quarter of 2023.

Even though the survey showed that betting increased overall, the number of bettors who wagered $500 or more per month decreased, and that the most “active” bettors surveyed had a “more volatile financial behavior.”

While the poll reported mostly good news for the wagering industry, TransUnion cautioned that problem gambling remains a concern.

“The risks of problem gambling only increase as the industry continues to expand,” study authors wrote. “And the chorus of concern from regulators and consumer advocacy groups related to responsible gaming is growing alongside the industry.”

Steve Wynn Appeals to Supreme Court Regarding Defamation Rule

Earlier this month, former casino mogul Steve Wynn appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court to review and potentially overturn the “actual malice” standard for defamation as established by the landmark New York Times v. Sullivan case from 1964.

Essentially, the case set a precedent that in order for public figures to win libel suits, they must show that the offending material was published with actual malice, or with knowledge that it was false or a disregard as to whether it was false. The ruling has been challenged several times in subsequent years.

Wynn had previously sued the Associated Press over a 2018 report detailing sexual assault allegations against him. The report included citizens’ complaints that an AP reporter had obtained from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. The suit was ultimately dismissed by the Nevada Supreme Court.

  Thu, Feb 13, 2025

Stake pulls out of the U.K., Superbet gets massive refinancing and Latvian operators to be compensated for Covid shutdowns.

Stake Pulls Out of UK Following Social Media Investigation

Crypto gambling operator Stake has exited the U.K. market following an investigation by the U.K. Gambling Commission found its branding was being featured in videos made by an adult film actress and was plastered across social media.

Stake said it agreed, as part of a strategic decision, to end its white-label partnership with TGP Europe Limited (TGP) and shut down its U.K.-facing site. TGP will complete a full shutdown of the site by March 11.

Stake has been the front-of-shirt sponsor of English Premier League football club Everton since the 2022-23 season.

The commission said it would contact Everton, as well as two other clubs partnered with unlicensed betting sponsors, to warn them of the risks of promotion of illegal sites. These teams have been warned to carry out their due diligence to ensure the brands they are displaying do not provide gambling activities to U.K. consumers.

Superbet Secures Billion-Dollar Blackstone Refinancing Deal

Romanian sports betting group Superbet last week secured a $1.34 billion refinancing agreement with its existing investors Blackstone and a number of funds and accounts managed by HPS Investment Partners (HPS).

Superbet said on Feb. 7 the funds would support growth in new markets like Brazil and M&A optionality. It will also further investment in innovative technologies.

According to a statement, recent funding from its consortium of investors has enabled Superbet to invest heavily in its proprietary technology platform. It has also been able to accelerate growth across Europe.

Hans-Holger Albrecht, Superbet’s chairman, said his company is “delighted” with the deal.

“The fact that we have two blue-chip investors, Blackstone and HPS, is not only a milestone for the company, but also, given our strong balance sheet, is something that enables us to continue our expansion story, driven by our unique tech and product position,” he said.

Latvian Operators to be Compensated for Covid Gambling Shutdown

Licensed gambling operators in Latvia will be granted up to $7.3 million in compensation from the state for having their operations shut down during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Online gambling was made illegal, alongside the sale of alcohol online in 2020 in Latvia, despite both activities being carried out without the risk of spreading the infection.

The Latvian Interactive Gambling Association (LIAB) released a statement on Feb. 6 announcing the Senate Court’s decision. A number of operators fought the decision to ban online gambling and have won their relevant cases.

“As a result of the legal proceedings, it was found that the law issued by the Saeima and the subsequent Lottery and Gambling (IAUI) decision adopted on its basis are unlawful, and the state will have to compensate the industry for the losses caused by these decisions,” the local trade body said.

“The politicians’ unlawful decision not only caused losses to the state budget, but also exposed players to a very high risk of illegal gambling. Latvia was the only country in the world that banned licensed interactive games during the Covid-19 pandemic.”

By Jill Dorson   Thu, Feb 13, 2025

Sports betting moving in Hawaii, GRIT Act reintroduced, legal operators see account boost from Super Bowl and more.

Hawaii Legal Sports Betting Bill Advances

Hawaii’s House Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs Committee Feb. 12 moved forward a legal sports betting bill that would allow for statewide mobile wagering. An amended version of HB 1308 passed, 6-4, but two committee members said they voted “aye” with reservations.

Committee chairman David Tarnas said he previously has voted against gambling bills, but that the state is “in a fiscal crisis.” He pointed to cuts in federal funding and said he was “trying to be creative and move forward with legislation in a deliberative way.” The bill now moves onto the Finance Committee.

Its companion bill, SB 1569, moved out the Senate Economic Development and Tourism Committee Feb. 12, as well. It now goes to the Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection and Ways and Means committees.

In the House committee hearing, BetMGM and DraftKings were among those testifying in favor as well as the Ironworkers Stabilization Fund. Cody Sula of that group testified that legal sports betting would bring funding for the islands.

“We have people leaving our islands, moving to Vegas, Arizona, Texas, wherever,” he said. “Half of our money is going out to Vegas, anyway … we want to come up with innovative ways to bring help to our people.”

Multiple community groups and the Honolulu attorney’s office testified in opposition, citing concern for the mental and financial health of Hawaiians.

Federal GRIT Act Reintroduced

Ahead of the Super Bowl Feb. 9, Connecticut Sen. Richard Blumenthal and Oregon Rep. Andrea Salinas reintroduced the GRIT Act, which seeks to use a percentage of a federal gambling excise tax to create a national framework for problem and responsible gambling.

The federal proposal would also require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to submit a report after three years about the effectiveness of the act. The legislation would direct 75 percent of federal gambling tax revenue to states for problem and responsible gambling initiatives. The remaining 25 percent of tax revenue would be earmarked for gambling research through grants from the National Institute of Drug Abuse.

“Federal funding for gambling addiction research, prevention, and treatment is long overdue, and the GRIT Act is a critical step in addressing this urgent need,” National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) Board President Susan Sheridan Tucker said. “This legislation provides essential support for those impacted by gambling addiction. We applaud Senator Blumenthal and Representative Salinas for their leadership on this important issue.”

The NCPG endorses the legislation.

Sportsbooks See Bump in Users Around Super Bowl

The Philadelphia Eagles weren’t the only winners this past Super Bowl weekend. According to initial data, legal sportsbook operators saw a 14 percent increase in active accounts over last year.

Compliance and geolocation tech supplier GeoComply released its annual data report after the game Feb. 9. The top-line news was a 14 percent year-on-year increase in active legal online sports betting accounts.

This is welcome news for the industry, especially given that there were no new markets launched for this year’s game. Missouri voters legalized sports betting there last November but the market has yet to launch. Over the course of the weekend, GeoComply said there were 724,400 new accounts created from 12 a.m. Feb. 8 through the end of the game Sunday night.

Georgians Overwhelmingly Support Legal Betting

Georgians want legal sports betting, according to a poll released by the University of Georgia School of Public Affairs. Eight hundred registered voters were surveyed by phone and 63 percent support legal sports betting. That number rose to 79.8 percent if state monies from sports betting were directed to the state’s HOPE program or pre-K programs. Also 77.9 percent of those surveyed say the decision on whether or not to legalize should be sent to the voters.

The poll did not specify whether or not lawmakers were considering in-person or digital sports betting or both.

Georgia lawmakers have been trying for at least five years to bring legal sports betting to the state, but have run into political issues that have prevented passage. So far, no bills have been filed for this session, though several lawmakers have promised to carry the issue again.

NY Sports Awards, Season-Long Props Bill Moves

The New York State Senate passed a bill that legalizes a new kind of proposition bets and some awards wagers, writes iGB.

In a bill sponsored by New York State Sen. Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr., the committee voted Feb. 11 to amend the racing, pari-mutuel wagering and breeding law. SB 2616 would allow for betting on season-long proposition and future award winners, such as the Heisman Trophy. It would also add betting on pre-game coin tosses.

The bill passed unanimously. From here, it will continue moving through the Senate. It must pass the House and get Gov. Kathy Hochul’s signature before it could become effective.

According to the text of the proposal, allowing for season-long proposition bets and predicted award winners would “expand on an already successful” online sports betting product.

Canada’s NorthStar Gaming Trending Up

NorthStar Gaming Tuesday (11 Feb.) released preliminary fourth-quarter results that project a 42 percent increase in handle against Q4 2023 and a 31.6 percent increase in gross gaming revenue (GGR) against the same quarter in 2023. The company also projects a 51 percent increase in handle for the full year vs. 2023 and a 51 percent increase in GGR.

The company also announced that it has secured $30 million in financing, which CEO and Chair Michael Moskowitz said “we believe we have the funding in place to reach profitability based on the current business platform.” The company expects to release audited Q4 and FY 2024 results in late April.

By Jill Dorson   Thu, Feb 13, 2025

Oklahoma sports betting bills move to full committee, Navajo Nation announces new casino, Kewadin Casinos hit with cyberattack and more.

Oklahoma Betting Bills Get Out of Subcommittee

Two sports betting bills that would require four tribes to sign model legislation passed out of an Oklahoma subcommittee Feb. 10.

IGB reported that the bills unanimously passed out of the House Subcommittee on Appropriations and Budget Select Agencies. They will now move to the full Appropriations Committee, though no hearing date has been set. Oklahoma’s legislature is set to adjourn May 30, and there is no crossover deadline.

Rep. Ken Luttrell, who has sponsored gambling legislation in the past, is carrying the bills. He is also the subcommittee chairman. Feb. 10, he explained that HB 1047 would bring sports betting to the state via the legislature. If the bill fails, HB 1101 would then be “triggered” and the decision would go to the voters via referendum.

Luttrell did not specify in either bill whether retail or digital betting — or both — would be legalised should either bill become law. He says that the “tribes can decide” and that “we’re not going to legislate what the tribes do.”

Arizona’s Navajo Nation to Build Second Casino

The Navajo Nation of Arizona announced plans for a second casino near Flagstaff, reports Flagstaff Business News. The land was transferred into a trust last November, and the tribe can have up to 300 gaming machines. Tribal leader Buu Nygren said he expects the new casino to create 300 jobs during construction and 100 permanent jobs on completion.

The site, located about four miles from the Flagstaff mall, was home to the Horsemen Lodge Steakhouse, and Nygren says the tribe plans to reopen the restaurant. The tribe’s other facility is about 20 miles east of Flagstaff.

The tribe will partner with the Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise for the venture.

Kewadin Casinos Shut Down Following Cyber Attack

Michigan’s  Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of the Chippewa Indians shut down its five Kewadin casino operations early this week following a ransomware attack, per multiple media reports.

In a statement Feb. 9 after the attacks were discovered, the tribe released the following statement: “Beginning Monday, Feb. 10 at 7 a.m. our gaming operations will be halted until further notice. We understand that this is inconvenient and unexpected news. Please know our experts are working around-the-clock to restore gaming operations.”

It does not appear that digital gambling was affected by the attack. The tribe did not release any details about the nature of the cyber attack.

In Other News …

Speak Up Shasta Association, composed of the Wintu Tribe of Northern California and the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians, has sued the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), reports Action News Now. In the lawsuit, the tribes say that the BIA did not consider a plot of land known as Strawberry Fields, is culturally and religiously important to the tribes. The BIA put the land in trust last July.

California’s Morongo Casino Resort & Spa and Casino Morongo named Mike Bean CEO Feb. 11. Bean is a former executive at Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment, Foxwoods Resort Casino, Harrah’s Entertainment and Mohegan Sun.

By Marjorie Preston   Thu, Feb 13, 2025

Thai PM pledges to combat illegal iGaming, Macau sees uptick after CNY comes up short, Hoiana Resort announces massive new investment and more.

Thai Prime Minister Pledges to Fight Illegal Online Gambling

In her first official visit to China since taking office last summer, Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra said her government would cooperate with Beijing in its fight against illegal igaming.

Chinese government spokesperson Lin Jian said Paetongtarn conferred with President Xi Jinping about “enhancing the fight against online gambling and telecom fraud.

“China is working with Thailand, Myanmar and neighboring countries” to identify and shut down illegal offshore operators, Lin said at a Feb. 7 press briefing.

Last year, Chinese police investigated some 73,000 cross-border gambling cases, “destroyed” more than 4,500 online gambling platforms, and detained more than 11,000 suspects.

According to crypto website Inside Bitcoins, Macau—the only place in China where gambling is legal—is using “advanced surveillance systems and forensic digital tools to track online communications and transactions in real time.”

Meanwhile, Thailand is weighing legislation that could introduce legal “entertainment complexes” with casinos, and possibly include an online gambling component. According to the Bangkok Post, Xi inquired about these plans and warned about the potential social costs.

Paetongtarn said the kingdom would proceed with caution, but also talked up the benefits. “If (gambling is) legalized,” she told reporters on Feb. 11, “revenue can be collected from them and used for national development projects.”

Back at home, opposition to the plan is mounting. Former prime minister Abhisit Vejjajiva calls gambling a “major social problem” that negatively affects gamblers and their families.

“This is dangerous,” Abhisit said at a recent seminar on the gaming legislation. “Online gambling, in particular, will have a negative impact on society by increasing household debts and consequently, crime rates.”

In a January report, the Phuket News cited a source close to the National Economic and Social Development Council who said the economic benefits of casinos may be overstated, as gaming revenue does not contribute to production.

Thai Sang Thai Party (TST) leader Khunying Sudarat Keyuraphan slammed the bill as “one of the worst pieces of legislation ever written. This is not about economic growth —it’s about opening the door to legalized gambling with little oversight.”

Following Lackluster CNY, Macau Casinos See Upturn

Macau casinos posted softer-than-anticipated results during the recent Chinese New Year (CNY) holiday (Jan. 29-Feb. 4).

Daily gross gaming revenue (GGR) came to MOP780 million (US$97.3 million), 1 percent down from the same period in 2024, and 8 percent under the 2019 benchmark.

In a Feb. 10 note, Jefferies Group analysts said post-CNY returns were “slightly better than the actual CNY performance,” with daily revenue of MOP822M through Feb. 9. They expect “the recovery to continue going forward” and projected GGR of MOP18.4-19.4 billion for the month, versus MOP18.5 billion in 2024 (a leap year, in which February had an extra day).

According to Macau Business, JP Morgan analysts DS Kim, Mufan Shi, and Selina Li agreed that “post-LNY GGR (was) better-than-feared at MOP725 million/day thanks to solid ‘tail-end’ demand, somewhat offsetting the weakness from LNY.” The team projects monthly GGR of MOP18.3 billion to MOP19.4 billion.

Meanwhile, the Macau government has forecasted full-year GGR of MOP240 billion, up 11 percent year-on-year.

Vietnam Casino Announces $1 Billion New Investment

Hoi An South Development Ltd. (HASD), developer and operator of Hoiana Resort & Golf in Hoi An, Vietnam, has announced “an estimated new investment of US$1 billion” for Phase 2 of its development. The luxury resort is in Quang Nam Province on Vietnam’s central coast.

The news follows the appointment of a new chief executive. In a Feb. 8 press release, HASD announced that Alan Teo, former COO of both Universal Hotels and Resorts World Sentosa, had replaced onetime CEO Stephen Wolstenholme.

“Alan’s appointment comes at a crucial juncture, as HASD continues to solidify its position as an industry leader within the hospitality industry in Vietnam,” the release stated. It noted that more than 225,000 people visited the resort in 2024.

In an interview with The Investor days before he stepped down, Wolstenholme said Quang Nam is “well-positioned to maintain its stature as a premier cultural heritage destination while unlocking new opportunities to attract high-value international travelers through premium, unique and experiential offerings.” He added that 2025 “represents a pivotal phase” in the resort’s growth strategy.

Malaysian Games Group Looks to Growth in Philippines

Phillip Capital Research says RGB International Bhd could post its best-ever quarter following a multimillion-dollar sale to the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR). In the third quarter of 2024, the Malaysian manufacturer delivered 1,969 electronic gaming machines (EGM) to the government regulator.

According to the Malaysian Star, PAGCOR paid $81million for the machines.

“For 2024 to 2026, we expect this strong momentum to persist, … primarily supported by a robust pipeline of resort openings in the Philippines and a growing replacement market,” the research group stated. “We also expect a blockbuster year for RGB, forecasting a 32 percent compounded annual growth rate in profit over the 2023 to 2026 time frame.”

RGB is the predominant distributor of EGMs in Asian markets, according to Phillip, with up to 80 percent of market share. The Philippines is its biggest customer.

By Kyle Goldsmith   Thu, Feb 13, 2025

New round of operators licensed in Brazil, Colombian VAT raises questions, Betano re-ups deal with F1’s Massa and more.

Brazil Regulator OK’s 21 Additional Operators for Full Licenses

Brazil’s gambling regulator, the Secretariat of Prizes and Bets (SPA), granted 21 more online betting licenses on Feb. 11, increasing the total number of fully licensed operators to 35.

Only 14 Brazilian betting companies secured full licenses from the SPA before the legal market launch on Jan. 1, while 52 others received provisional licenses as they awaited final approvals and technical certifications.

With the latest round of approvals published in the Official Gazette of the Union, the number of fully licensed operators has risen to 35. These licenses collectively cover 173 brands authorized to operate in the market.

The newly awarded full licenses include major players, with international giants like Kaizen Gaming-owned Betano and Bet365 making the list, alongside local brands such as Aposta Ganha and Betsul.

Colombia’s New Gambling VAT Sparks Confusion

After Colombia introduced an emergency 19 percent value-added tax (VAT) on gambling in January, local lawyer Juan Camilo Carrasco told iGB the industry needs clarity.

Thanks to an exceptional measure in Article 213 of Colombia’s Political Constitution, the government has implemented the 19 percent VAT on a temporary basis, lasting for an initial 90 days.

However, this can be extended for an additional 180 days, and Carrasco warned: “We know that regarding taxes nothing is more permanent than something that comes in temporarily.”

It’s also unclear where the VAT will be taken from players deposits or turnover, with Carrasco telling iGB: “With what is written in the law, [the tax] should be on deposits, because there are a lot of provisions and regulations that [suggest] that VAT on gambling should be over deposits.”

Brazil’s SPA Seeks Industry Input on Regulations for 2025-2026 Agenda

Brazil’s Secretariat of Prizes and Bets (SPA) has initiated a public consultation, inviting industry feedback on enhancing online gambling regulations.

On Feb. 10, the SPA hosted a press conference at its Brasília headquarters to outline the timeline for its 2025-2026 biennium. During the event, the regulator invited industry stakeholders to provide feedback on the current regulatory framework and suggest potential improvements.

The SPA will publish its 2025-2026 regulatory agenda on April 4, utilizing feedback from the sector to adapt its current proposed agenda.

SPA chief Regis Dudena feels the body’s work is cyclical and in constant need of improvement, saying: “We have created a framework of main rules which is quite complete and essential for the start of the regulated fixed-odds betting market, but regulation is a cycle; there are always points to be reviewed and improved.”

Potential 45-Day Extension Proposed for Match-Fixing CPI

The Parliamentary Inquiry Commission (CPI) on match-fixing in Brazil could be extended for another 45 days after a request from its President Jorge Kajuru.

A meeting Feb. 11 for the CPI’s rapporteur Romário to present his final report was canceled due to there not being the minimum numbers of senators available to attend the meeting.

With the CPI only currently authorized to operate until Feb. 15, Kajuru has presented a request to the General Secretariat of the Senate Board for a 45-day extension.

Betano Renews Sponsorship Agreement with F1 Legend Massa

Betano has announced the renewal of its sponsorship agreement with former Formula One driver Felipe Massa.

Betano’s renewed deal with the Brazilian Massa will extend a relationship which first began in 2023.

To celebrate the renewal, Massa visited Betano’s new office in São Paulo, saying: “It is a pleasure to continue this collaboration and I’m looking forward to achieving more together in the coming years.”

Guilherme Figueiredo, Betano’s Country Manager in Brazil, added: “Felipe Massa is more than an ambassador for Betano; he is a symbol of trust that shares similar values with us and has a story that inspires.”

By Frank Legato   Thu, Feb 13, 2025

The latest announcements from ICE Barcelona, IGT, Koin and more.

ICE Barcelona Sets Record

The Barcelona editions of ICE and iGB Affiliate have set new records, attracting a total of 59,101 unique attendees surpassing the previous high of 52,345 which was set in 2024, the last editions to be held in London.

The ICE unique attendance of 50,019 represented an 11 percent year-on-year uplift with iGB Affiliate recording a total of 9,082 unique visitors, an increase of 24 percent on the previous highest, which was set 12-months ago.

ICE and iGB Affiliate registered a total visitation figure, which measures the number of person days spent at the Fira Gran Via Barcelona of 107,664—another gambling industry world record. Nine nations recorded four figure attendances with Spain topping the table (8,954), followed by the U.K. (6,518), Malta (3,074), Cyprus (2,328), Ukraine (1,938), United States (1,730), Italy (1,496), Bulgaria (1,252) and Germany (1,157).

BetMakers Signs Long-Term Pricing and Data Extension with Sportsbet

BetMakers Technology Group announced the long-term extension of its agreement with leading Australian wagering operator Sportsbet for the provision of its pricing and data services across three codes of racing.
Under this extended agreement, BetMakers will continue supplying Sportsbet with a comprehensive suite of pricing and data solutions to drive their global racing book, leveraging BetMakers proprietary technology, global race day control services to support market management, racing event life-cycle and enhance trading strategies.

IGT Extends Tennessee Lottery Contract

International Game Technology PLC announced that its subsidiary, IGT Global Solutions Corporation, signed a nine-year contract extension with the Tennessee Education Lottery (TEL). The contract extension begins June 2027 and runs through June 2036.

Under the terms of the agreement, IGT will deploy its high-performing Aurora central system, a feature component of IGT’s integrated lottery solution, OMNIA. Additionally, IGT will provide upgraded Wizard back-office business applications, replace existing terminals with newly launched Retailer Pro S2 terminals with WinCheck S2 peripherals, provide new keno show controllers with WiFi capabilities and deliver communication network upgrades.

TEL has been an IGT customer since 2004.

Koin Brings Cashless to Emerald Island

Cashless solutions provider Koin announced a new partnership with Emerald Island Casino in the Water Street Entertainment District in downtown Henderson, Nevada, a partnership marking a significant step forward in the availability of digital technology in the local resort industry.

Powered by Koin’s advanced payment solutions, Emerald Island customers will now enjoy more convenience and security in their transactions, with instant access to their funds through the Koin cashless program, eliminating the need for cash or traditional card payments.

Introducing Koin’s payment solutions, the property is positioned to meet growing customer demand for frictionless, secure digital spend. As more casinos and entertainment venues embrace this functionality, the operational benefits are becoming more widely realized and embraced, giving early adopters like Emerald Island a competitive edge.

Aristocrat Interactive Names Nir Hakarmeli as New iGaming & Sports Managing Director

Aristocrat Interactive announced the appointment of industry veteran Nir Hakarmeli as the new managing director of its iGaming & Sports division.

In his new role at Aristocrat Interactive, Nir will lead the iGaming & Sports division, focusing on expanding the company’s portfolio with complementary products and content for both land-based and online operators in major regulated markets.

Hakarmeli brings over a decade of extensive experience in the gaming industry, having held key leadership positions across several prominent organizations. Most recently, he served as the international managing director at Evoke, where he played a pivotal role in steering the company’s international operations and growth strategies.

Prior to that, Hakarmeli was the Gaming Director at William Hill, contributing significantly to the company’s gaming initiatives.

Imagine This to Host Exclusive 2025 IGA AfterParty

Marketing firm Imagine This announced its highly anticipated Annual IGA AfterParty, an exclusive event for casino executives, taking place at Moonshine Flats during the Indian Gaming Association’s annual Conference & Tradeshow. This premier celebration brings together top industry leaders for a night of networking, entertainment, and recognition of outstanding achievements in the casino industry.

A highlight of the evening will be the presentation of Imagine This’s Annual Native American Award of Achievement, which recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication to the Native American community, particularly within the gaming industry. In collaboration with the Indian Gaming Association, Imagine This will  donate a total of $10,000 on behalf of the award recipients to a charity of their choice.

This year’s AfterParty is made possible through the support of sponsors FABICash, TPI, Cord Media, and Statewide.

By Frank Fantini   Thu, Feb 13, 2025

All too often, the biggest-name operators and the flashy startups are the ones who receive all the coverage. But there are some mid-size companies that have the total package: strong leadership, growth plans and exposure to the right markets.

In a time when the brick-and-mortar casino business is more stagnant than not, the well-managed Steady Eddies continue to outperform.

That has been demonstrated again in the latest earnings releases and outlooks from Boyd Gaming, Red Rock Resorts and Monarch Casino. They move forward by blocking and tackling rather than by dazzling investors with splashy, expensive projects in exotic locales that promise returns someday.

These companies share several key components, such as strong founding-family ownership, considerable exposure to growing Nevada locals markets and, in the case of Boyd and Red Rock, step-by-step, almost railroad timetable exact, capital growth plans.

Here’s a quick take on each of them:

• Boyd is geographically diversified and has a broad ownership base. It has steadily and meaningfully returned capital to shareholders through significant stock repurchases (BYD has 10 percent fewer diluted shares outstanding than a year ago) and a dividend yielding just under 1 percent.

Debt is less than four times EBITDA even financing a number of property expansions and renovations. Boyd also has a $750 million casino to rise in under-served Norfolk, Virginia, in partnership with the Pamunkey Indians to goose future earnings.

This steady growth in the business and in returns to shareholders comes at a stock valuation under eight times analysts’ expected 2026 EBITDA and a mere 11 times earnings per share.

For those who would like to own a piece of digital gaming, BYD offers that, too. Online generated $44 million in EBITDA last quarter and Boyd owns 5 percent of FanDuel, which, along with DraftKings, amounts to an online sports betting duopoly in North America.

There aren’t too many other companies in gaming, leisure and entertainment with such steady growth and shareholder friendly practices being delivered by proven management and selling at such modest valuations.

• Red Rock Resorts is relatively expensive compared to its peers with a stock price around 30 times next year’s earnings per share and more than nine times EBITDA.

The company also faces a hit to EBITDA of $22 million to $25 million this year because of construction disruption brought about by property renovations.

Perhaps for those reasons, Red Rock has gotten the least enthusiastic response from analysts, some of whom have “hold” ratings on the stock. But for those looking beyond this year, the investments should lead to growth that will make today’s stock price a bargain.

How can we be confident of that? Look at the track record. Red Rock grows profits. Its new Durango casino is a hit, and its expansion promises to make it an even greater success.

Most important is the long-term. Red Rock has more property expansions, a new casino after Durango likely to be announced next year, a nascent tavern business, an Indian casino coming in California and 450 acres of undeveloped land in the Las Vegas Valley to be put to productive use.

It is interesting to see investor excitement over other companies’ multibillion-dollar projects in far-flung corners of the globe that have no assurance of generating returns commensurate with those investments and then see the yawning response to a company built upon best-in-class properties serving the phenomenal growth of Las Vegas and which proves itself every day.

• Monarch is different almost to the point of being quirky.

It is a family-controlled company that in some ways operates like a privately owned company. It doesn’t hold investor conference calls, for example. Its growth plan beyond continuing to gain market share in metro Denver is to look for acquisitions. Given the state of some regional competitors, such opportunities may arise. Likewise, Monarch is in the hospitality and resort business and could grow beyond casinos.

Meanwhile, its appeal is execution, execution, execution built upon quality, quality, quality.

That makes for its steadily growing profits. And the money is piling up.

By the end of next year, MCRI should have more than $300 million in cash and no debt. That growing cash is what finances its $1.20 a share dividend and share repurchases. The company had 18.758 million diluted shares outstanding at year-end, down 4.27 percent from 19.595 million last year. Given its cash, there could be millions fewer shares by the end of next year.

In other words, whatever its strategic direction turns out to be, Monarch’s growing wealth should find its way into shareholder pockets.

By Roger Gros   Thu, Feb 13, 2025

In this episode we sit down with Kevin Mullaly, the first CEO of the UAE’s General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority.

Kevin Mullally has a long history in the gaming regulatory space. He spent 12 years as the first executive director of the Missouri Gaming Commission, following nine years as chief of staff to an important state senator in Missouri. He later spent almost 18 years with GLI as the vice president of government affairs and general counsel, where he advised regulatory bodies from around the world how things work. He was named the first CEO of the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority in the United Arab Emirates in 2023 and oversees all regulatory actions of that body, which includes land-based gaming, online gaming, sports betting and lottery. He spoke with GGB Publisher Roger Gros at the ICE trade show in Barcelona in January.

By Robert Fletcher   Thu, Feb 20, 2025

Portugal's Casino Estoril has followed its sister venue, Casino Lisboa, in implementing the Novovision casino management system from Novomatic Biometric Systems (NBS),

The Novovision solution, which went live at Casino Estoril in mid-February, features a range of functionalities. These, NBS said, will help improve both the player journey at the casino and wider business processes.

Aspects include new Novovision Self-Registration Terminals to allow fast player access to the gaming floor. Customers can opt for a biometric registration via fingerprint or facial scan with card or a one-off QR code ticket that can be scanned to enter.

Meanwhile, most live tables at Casino Estoril have been retrofitted with facial recognition equipment. In addition, all electronic gaming machines feature Novovision Player Tracking Modules, allowing players to easily access their accounts.

Other functionalities include the Novovision Promo Tower to assist with the allocation of promotional points and loyalty features. The casino will also have access to accurate accounting and player tracking data.

Casino Estoril aims to transform customer journey

Speaking about the latest on integration, Bruno Ferreira, gaming manager and coordinator for Casinos Lisboa and Estoril, said the roll out will improve the experience of customers at both venues.

“With this implementation Estoril Sol completes the systems migration in both properties,” Ferreira said. “System-wise we have a robust solution and will be able to transform our customers’ journey and experience.”

George Paterakis, poroject manager NBS, added: “Seeing Novovision in operation in these renowned casinos is very gratifying. The joint effort that was put into this project both by our development teams and the experts at Estoril Sol has yielded a highly customised solution for the unique requirements of these operations.”

Casino Estoril’s gaming floor features over 490 slot machines, as well as table games including poker, roulette blackjack and baccarat.

By Robert Fletcher   Wed, Feb 19, 2025

Denmark’s gambling regulator Spillemyndigheden has launched a new campaign aimed at raising young people’s awareness of the country’s ROFUS self-exclusion scheme.

Running for eight weeks, the campaign will seek to change how young people in Denmark perceive ROFUS. It centres on a 60-second film that will feature across YouTube, Twitch and various streaming services.

The campaign comes after a recent study found young Danish men associate ROFUS with having a gambling problem. At present, more than 15,000 men aged 18 to 25 are registered with ROFUS.

The initiative is targeted at young men aged 18 to 24, who have been given access to gambling for money.

‘Take it to ROFUS’

Anders Dorph, director of Spillemyndigheden, hopes the campaign will encourage more young people seeking help for their gambling habits to also sign up.

“For many people, gambling is an entertainment product,” Dorph said. “But it’s important that there is also room for taking a break from gambling. ROFUS can be a good tool for many. We hope our new campaign can help inform the target group about this.”

From the recent study, Spillemyndigheden found gambling plays a large role in young men’s communities. However, at the same time, there was not much talk about potential negative consequences of gambling.

“When gambling is a large part of the community, it can be vulnerable to speak out and stand out from the crowd,” Dorph said. “That’s why we hope that a new campaign can start a conversation among young people about it being okay to skip the game and ‘take it ROFUS’, which is the campaign’s slogan.”

By Robert Fletcher   Wed, Feb 19, 2025

Melco Resorts & Entertainment has received recognition from several environment-focused organisations for its ongoing corporate sustainability efforts.

The S&P Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA) listed Melco as an ‘Industry Mover’ in its S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook 2025. Meanwhile, Melco also secured Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) certification for the Studio City Phase 2.

S&P, a leading evaluation of companies’ sustainability performance, featured Melco in the Casinos & Gaming section of its 2025 rankings. Yearbook members are selected based on their score from the S&P Global 2024 CSA.

To be listed, companies must score within the top 15% of their industry. They must also achieve a CSA score within 30% of their industry’s top-performing company.

Meanwhile, Melco’s Studio City Phase 2 development has secured an ‘Excellent’ rating from BREEAM. In doing so, it becomes the first BREEAM certified project in Macau, following its earlier ‘Excellent’ rating for the design stage.

The BREEAM New Construction standards provide a framework to support the delivery of assets which are high performing and sustainable.

Melco CEO talks up sustainable goals

Commenting on the achievements, Melco CEO and chairman Lawrence Ho said the achievements recognise the operator’s long-term goals on sustainability.

“In our goal to inspire guests by showing them a sustainable future is a better future, we are honoured to be recognised by S&P and BREEAM for our dedicated efforts towards our sustainability ethos, reflecting our commitment at every operational level and touchpoint,” Ho said.

“As highlighted in our sustainability strategy ‘Above & Beyond’, we will strive to continue to make a positive impact in everything we do, leading by example, and showing that it is possible to be successful while being responsible stewards of our planet and communities.”

By Rory Squires   Thu, Feb 20, 2025

Churchill Downs Incorporated has unveiled a series of major infrastructure projects at its Churchill Downs racetrack in Kentucky, USA.

CDI, which set out plans to develop a new historical racing machine (HRM) venue in Kentucky last year, will undertake projects across four areas of the business over the next three years. The total cost of these infrastructure projects could reach $900m, the business said.

The plans include the Skye Terrace renovation and expansion project, which is expected to cost $455-$465m, a Conservatory project for premium admissions valued at $320-$330m, infield general admission upgrades costing $60-$70m and other infrastructure projects costing $45-$55m.

Pending approvals, CDI expects to spend $120-130m on the various projects this year, with all of the improvements complete ahead of the 154^th Kentucky Derby in May 2028.

Long-term value

“These projects, as well as key infrastructure improvements, reflect the company’s commitment to providing world-class hospitality and premium seating options for guests for many decades to come,” said Bill Carstanjen, Chief Executive Officer of CDI.

“We have a proven track record of prudently investing capital in the Kentucky Derby to create once-in-a-lifetime experiences for our guests while also creating significant long-term value for our shareholders.”

Gaming growth

Plans for the HRM entertainment venue in Calvert City, Kentucky, include 250 machines, a sports bar and a sportsbook.

The venue will serve as an extension of Oak Grove Racing, Gaming and Hotel and will be the company’s eighth historical horse racing entertainment venue in Kentucky.

In the company’s latest quarterly financial update, covering Q3 of 2024, CDI posted growth across its three core segments – live and historical racing, the TwinSpires online horse race betting operation and gaming. Of the three verticals, gaming was the main source of revenue at $269.7m – a year-on-year increase of 10.4% and a new all-time high.

By Rory Squires   Tue, Feb 18, 2025

Scientific Games will provide the New Mexico Lottery with the company’s Momentum solution, which features the advanced AEGIS central gaming system, as well as the SciTrak instant game system and the Infuse business intelligence platform.

Scientific Games will provide the New Mexico Lottery with the company’s Momentum solution, which features the advanced AEGIS central gaming system, as well as the SciTrak instant game system and the Infuse business intelligence platform.

It is hoped that Scientific Games’ WAVE X point-of-sale retailer terminals and the PlayCentral suite of self-service machines across its network of more than 1,000 retailers will help to engage lottery players with expanded game content.

John Schulz, President of Americas & Global Instant Products for Scientific Games, added, “We have partnered with the New Mexico Lottery on the instant game portion of their business for many years and are looking forward to helping take their performance to new heights as a full-line provider in a new collaborative contract.

“The lottery has always taken an innovative approach to Scratchers. As the systems technology provider, we look forward to innovating its full-line business with our full ecosystem of advanced solutions to drive responsible growth.”

Innovative approach

The company also provides the New Mexico Lottery with licensed properties such as Game of Thrones and Loteria. The Lottery will be supported in Albuquerque by a Scientific Games team of game, product and technology experts, along with the company’s state-of-the-art facilities and logistics services.

Currently serving 150 government-regulated lotteries in 50 counties, S Scientific Games will provide the New Mexico Lottery with the company’s Momentum solution, which features the advanced AEGIS central gaming system, as well as the SciTrak instant game system and the Infuse business intelligence platform.

Engaging new players

It is hoped that Scientific Games’ WAVE X point-of-sale retailer terminals and the PlayCentral suite of self-service machines across its network of more than 1,000 retailers will help to engage lottery players with expanded game content.

is the world’s largest lottery games creator, producer and manager. Since 2017, the company has completed ~ 40 lottery systems implementations and conversions.

Scientific Games will provide the New Mexico Lottery with the company’s Momentum solution, which features the advanced AEGIS central gaming system, as well as the SciTrak instant game system and the Infuse business intelligence platform.

It is hoped that Scientific Games’ WAVE X point-of-sale retailer terminals and the PlayCentral suite of self-service machines across its network of more than 1,000 retailers will help to engage lottery players with expanded game content.

By Richard Mulligan   Tue, Feb 18, 2025

Light & Wonder (L&W) has agreed to acquire the charitable gaming assets of Grover Charitable Gaming in a deal that could eventually cost more than $1bn.

L&W has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the charitable gaming assets of Grover Gaming and G2 Gaming for total consideration of $850m cash. The deal also includes a four-year revenue based earn-out of up to $200m cash.

Privately owned by Garrett Blackwelder, Grover Charitable Gaming has an installed base of over 10,000 leased electronic pull-tab units across five US states. Founded in 2013, Grover operates in North Dakota, Virginia, Kentucky, New Hampshire and Ohio.

For the year ended December 31, 2024, on an unaudited and preliminary basis, Grover Charitable Gaming generated revenue of $135m and adjusted EBITDA of $111m.

The transaction is due to close during the second quarter of 2025, with a combination of Grover Gaming and L&W employees to run the expanded group following its completion.

“Grover Gaming is a leading player in charitable gaming, a category that has experienced significant growth in recent years,” said Matt Wilson, president and chief executive of L&W. “This transaction complements our position as the leading cross-platform global games company by adding another compelling regulated adjacency to our profile.”

L&W said that Grover has a leading position in the fast-growing charitable gaming space and a best-in-class supplier in every state it operates across. It also told investors that the transaction complements its cross-platform strategy, by expanding into another high-growth, regulated adjacency in which L&W is not currently a participant.

L&W added: “Grover Charitable Gaming has developed long-standing and persistent relationships with charitable customers in the states that it operates, underpinned by a dedicated local team of service technicians and relationship managers.”

By Richard Mulligan   Mon, Feb 17, 2025

New South Wales has launched a public consultation over gambling policy reforms, including the establishment of an exclusion scheme.

The Minns Labor Government in the Australian state said the month-long consultation will give people the chance to have their say on two new schemes drawn from its election commitments.

The public can give feedback on consultation papers for a proposed third-party exclusion scheme and proposed mandatory facial recognition technology to support a statewide exclusion register for NSW hotels and clubs with gaming machines. The third-party exclusion scheme would allow family, friends and venues to apply to ban someone experiencing significant gambling harm.

Minister for Gaming and Racing David Harris said: “The Minns Labor Government is committed to addressing gambling harm through evidence-based policy and it’s important that we get the balance right.

“Third-party exclusions are designed to help those experiencing gambling harm and their loved ones when other avenues to seek help may have failed.

“It recognises the physical, psychological, emotional and financial flow-on effects of gambling on a person’s family and friends.

“This is complex reform which is why we are seeking feedback on a range of issues.”

Reduce gambling harms

The proposed measures are the latest in a suite of reforms introduced over the last two years by the Minns Labor Government to reduce gambling harm.

It is proposed the minimum period for an exclusion order would be 12 months, with a maximum period of two or three years, with a temporary exclusion of 21 days while an application is considered.

The NSW government has sought to diminish concerns about facial recognition technology by building strict parameters into the reforms to protect people’s privacy. It said this technology will support gambling harm-minimisation by removing the guesswork of staff identifying excluded patrons, often in crowded venues.

Harris said: “Facial recognition will also be an important harm-minimisation tool by providing another way to identify excluded patrons in crowded venue environments, which can often be challenging for venue staff.

“I encourage everyone to have their say on these important harm-minimisation measures.”

By Richard Mulligan   Mon, Feb 17, 2025

Thailand is proposing tough new entry requirements designed to restrict its citizens from entering its planned casino resorts.

According to the updated Entertainment Complex Bill, as reported on Monday, Thai nationals must have more than 50 million baht in fixed deposits for at least six months to be able to enter the proposed casinos. That figure – about $1.2m – compares to Thailand’s per capita gross domestic product of about $7,300.

An entry fee of up to 5,000 baht was also put forward by the Office of the Council of State, which government consults on legal issues, policy and appointments.

The revised draft also proposes that casinos can make up no more than 10% of the premises at the entertainment complexes. The casino must also be separate to the rest of the resort.

According to The Nation Thailand, the Finance Ministry expects the bill to legalise casinos to be debated in Parliament before the end of this year, with the Council of State due to complete its review on March 6.

In January, Thailand’s cabinet approved a draft law that would legalise gambling and casinos, a move aimed at boosting tourism, jobs and investment. Under the initial bill, at least four other types of business as well as casino must be housed inside the proposed entertainment complexes.

The Thai government hopes to attract at least 100 billion baht in new investment, for an annual boost to foreign arrivals by 5% to 10% and generate revenue of more than 12 billion baht a year. However, some are concerned that shutting out domestic players could now deter potential investors.

Thailand allows gambling on state-controlled horse racing, betting on some sports and lottery play.

By Richard Mulligan   Fri, Feb 14, 2025

US land-based gambling groups such as Churchill Downs Incorporated and The Cordish Companies have joined together to form a group opposing the expansion of online gaming.

The National Association Against iGaming (NAAiG) has been established as a response to concerns over the “significant health and economic risks”.

The coalition’s leadership team includes executive members of The Cordish Companies, Monarch Casino & Resort and Churchill Downs Incorporated (CDI). It also features local businesses, industry veterans, community advocates and concerned citizens.

NAAiG said states should restrict online gaming and support in-person, legal gaming because it is better regulated and prioritises the safety and well-being of communities.

“Beyond the lack of any real upside for states, igaming puts vulnerable individuals at greater risk of problem gambling and financial instability,” said NAAiG board member Jason Gumer, who is executive vice-president and general counsel at Monarch. “NAAiG is uniting stakeholders to push back and stop the spread of these harmful trends and advocate for responsible gaming policies.”

Anti-online gaming study

NAAiG has published a comprehensive study conducted by The Innovation Group, which determines the economic impact of online casino expansion. The study shows that land-based casino revenue drops by an average of 16% after igaming is introduced. This results in widespread job losses, reduced economic output, and shrinking tax revenues.

By 2029, almost 5,000 jobs in both New York and Illinois would be eliminated if igaming is introduced. GDP losses could reach $602m in Ohio and $428m in Indiana.

Furthermore, the report suggested states could experience a decline in tax revenue due to transition to online platforms. The findings revealed that individuals participating in igaming are eight times more likely to exhibit compulsive gambling behaviours. Some 81% of those with gambling problems are involved in online gaming, which poses significant challenges for addressing addiction.

“Igaming is eroding our communities,” said Shannon McCracken, CDI’s senior director of government relations and NAAiG board member.

“This isn’t just about responsible gaming — it’s about protecting local family-sustaining jobs and preventing financial harm. We must act now to protect our state and local economies nationwide.”