Thu, Mar 13, 2025

Steve Cohen’s Queens Future casino project proposal at Citi Field gets approval from the NY City Council. But the project still needs a legislative fix and to be awarded a license before moving forward.

Billionaire baseball owner Steve Cohen and his Queens Future group took another step toward putting a casino complex adjacent to Citi Field. On March 11, the New York City Council and its Land Use Committee approved a series of proposals that would allow for a zoning change for the area from its “parkland” status. A series of local community boards have also already backed the changes.

The next step will be for Mayor Eric Adams to sign off on the changes.

But local approval does not ensure that the project can move forward. The group still needs a parkland alienation bill from the state legislature, which state Senator Jessica Ramos has consistently said she will oppose, and also needs to be awarded a casino license by the state.

In partnership with Hard Rock International, Cohen is one of 11 bidders for a downstate New York casino license. The New York State Gaming Commission’s Facility Location Board is tasked with vetting bids and is to issue licenses by the end of 2025. Bids are due June 27.

The proposed $8 billion project, called Metropolitan Park, would convert 50 acres of parking lot into an integrated casino destination. In addition to a casino, it is to include 25 acres of parkland, retail shops and restaurants, a food hall and improved and expanded bike paths and roads. The Mets-Willets Point subway station would also get a makeover.

Competition for three downstate casino licenses has been fierce. Major casino companies including Bally’s, Caesars, Resorts World and Wynn are in the mix. All bidders must get local approval before submitting proposals to the Facility Location Board, and some, like Cohen’s project, require variances. The frontrunners for licensing appear to be the Genting Group and MGM Resorts International, which operate the Aqueduct and Yonkers horse racetracks, respectively. That will leave one license for the remaining nine bidders.

The Genting Group is bidding to upgrade and expand its Resorts World New York City location at Aqueduct. The company has plans to build a 350,000-square-foot casino floor, which would be the biggest in the world. In addition, Genting would add additional hotel rooms, 3,000 affordable housing units, an entertainment venue and upgraded food-and-beverage options.

MGM Resorts International is bidding to expand the existing racino at Yonkers into an entertainment venue with a Las Vegas-style casino, sportsbook, performance center, new dining options and a parking garage.

By Jill Dorson   Thu, Mar 13, 2025

A proposal that would require states to get federal permission to offer sports betting gets a minor makeover. The SAFE Bet Act would create stringent advertising guidelines and require states to work with the federal government to tamp down illegal gambling.

A U.S. congressman and senator are preparing to reintroduce the SAFE Bet Act, again saying they don’t oppose digital gambling but want the federal government to make it safer.

At a press conference on Capitol Hill March 11, Representative Paul Tonko and Senator Richard Blumenthal gathered responsible and problem gambling advocates and an addiction survivor to talk about the Supporting Affordability & Fairness with Every Bet Act (SAFE Bet Act).

Tonko said there has been a change from the original proposal introduced last year, though the new bill has not yet been filed. In addition to previous requirements in the proposal, which saw no action in the prior congressional session, states would now be required to “work with the federal government to shut down the illegal market.”

This is an issue that states so far have taken the lead on. From Arizona to Michigan, regulators have sent cease-and-desist letters to offshore sportsbooks warning them to shutter. And state legislatures, including those in Mississippi and Maryland, have been entertaining bills to ban unregulated sweepstakes platforms.

Every step of the way, the industry has asked for federal support in shutting down the illegal market.

Spotlight on Gambling-Related Harm

Tonko and Blumenthal said they sought to reinvigorate the conversation about their proposal on “the eve of March Madness,” the NCAA men’s basketball tournament. That begins with Selection Sunday March 16 and culminates with the national championship April 7.

“In exactly one week, Americans will be placing bets and likely losing those bets made on their favorite teams,” Tonko said. “We are not here because we want to stop the industry from breaking (revenue) records, nor are we here to prevent Americans from wagering on sports should they choose to.

“We’re here today because government, at every level, has failed to pay attention to or understand the impact of gambling-related harms.”

Tonko said the legal sports betting industry earned a record $14 billion in 2024, a 25 percent increase over 2023. He went on to say that the industry “labels that record number as ‘revenue,’ a number to be celebrated … but the reality is that $14 billion in revenue is $14 billion extracted from the pockets of everyday Americans. Most of that revenue is made off the suffering of a disproportionately small number of gamblers.”

Blumenthal called legal sports betting “the science of exploitation.” He noted the SAFE Bet Act would limit what kind of markets could be available to bettors. The crux of the SAFE Bet Act, he said, is to slow down the process when it comes to wagering. Ultimately, that would likely mean eliminating in-play betting and college proposition bets.

Sports are now ‘nonstop slot machines’

In-play betting is the fastest-growing sector of online sports betting. In layman’s terms, in-play betting allows wagers on what comes next without waiting for a game’s outcome. Examples would be predicting the next play in a football game or the speed of the next pitch in a baseball game. Digital platforms small and large continue to develop new ways to make the process faster and more seamless for bettors.

As the industry continues to refine its products, on Tuesday the politicians and their supporters were lamenting an era past.

“Sports once belonged to the American people, to be shared by grandparents, parents and children,” said problem and responsible gambling advocate Harry Levant. “But those days are gone. The sports leagues have sold out to the gambling industry. Sports are now the equivalent of a non-stop slot machine where the action never ends.”

By Jill Dorson   Thu, Mar 13, 2025

Trade war impacts gaming, Bally’s unveils responsible gaming initiative, and Reno gears up for a casino revival.

Trump Trade War Bleeding into Gambling

U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade war with Canada is being felt in the gaming industry, as late last week the provincial government in Alberta, Canada banned the purchase of slot machines made by U.S.-based companies.

Trump announced a 25 percent tariff on all Canadian-made goods entering the U.S. That was set to go into effect last week but has been pushed to April. Alberta’s decision to fight back could be just the start. British Columbia and Ontario, which also offer legal gaming, could potentially follow suit.

Even one province putting a prohibition in place will sting major U.S. suppliers like International Gaming Technology (IGT) and Light & Wonder, both of which sell slot machines in Canada. According to the Nevada Independent, Alberta accounts for 4 percent of sales by all major manufacturers.

The Alberta Gaming Liquor and Cannabis Commission, which also already stopped allowing U.S. liquor to be imported, wrote that it “will prioritize procurement on companies that have support services in Alberta, Canada, or with countries that we share a free trade agreement with.”

Bally’s Launches ‘Game In Good Hands’ Responsible Gaming Brand

Bally’s Corporation launched its “Game In Good Hands” global responsible gaming initiative, emphasizing the pillars of trust and responsibility, in support of Problem Gaming Awareness Month.

The Game In Good Hands campaign will be promoted through both online and land-based casinos, utilizing signage, websites and direct mail communications to reach customers.

“Bally’s Corporation is proud to introduce the ‘Game In Good Hands’ responsible gaming campaign. This initiative highlights Bally’s dedication to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all users of its gaming products worldwide,” said Robeson Reeves, CEO of Bally’s.

For online gaming, Bally’s provides a range of RG tools, from deposit and loss limits to session reminders, giving players the freedom to play their way. Plus, there is always someone on hand to assist if needed.

If players wish to self-exclude online, they should visit the responsible gaming web pages for more information. If players would like to self-exclude while at a Bally’s casino, they should visit the designated property location for immediate assistance.

To learn more about Game In Good Hands, visit here.

‘Revival’ Coming to Reno

The old Harrah’s site in Reno is set for a makeover, News4 reported March 10. Madison Capital Group announced that it has purchased the property and will start work on “Revival,” which will be a mixed-use development.

The renovation will include work on the “iconic” Harrah’s building, including redesigning its three towers and the hotel. The end result will be 300 “market-rate” residences, corporate housing and office space as well as grocery, restaurant and retail spots. There will also be integrated outdoor space, with Las Vegas-based Fine Entertainment opening The George as a flagship tenant

Since Caesars Entertainment sold the property after being acquired by El Dorado Resorts in 2020, redevelopment has been delayed through ownership changes.

Madison Capital executives and their local partner, Brianna Bullentini, said the project is about revitalizing downtown Reno.

“Breathing new life into this cornerstone property will play a key role in the continued revitalization of downtown Reno, further establishing it as a top city to live, work, and visit,” Madison Capital CEO and founder Ryan Hanks said.

New Zealand Casino Owner Star City Opposes Digital Expansion

SkyCity owns three land-based casinos in New Zealand, and as the country wrestles with whether to add digital gambling, SkyCity is pushing back. According to Complete iGaming via local media outlet RNZ, a proposal calls for 15 digital platforms. SkyCity is pushing for five platforms, as well as restricting access to local companies only. A second casino owner, the TAB, also wants the number of licenses restricted, but would agree to up to seven.

SkyCity and TAB are concerned about the potential cannibalization of their brick-and-mortar businesses should a robust, international online gaming market open.

Both companies, in documents filed with the federal Internal Affairs Department, argued against  allowing non-New Zealand-based operators, saying those operators would not be subject to local taxes and that their presence could “hurt” local companies. But Internal Affairs Minister Minister Brooke van Velde told RNZ that giving preference to local operators may be in violation of the country’s free-trade agreements.

The government is set to issue licenses in February 2026.

In Other News …

The Belle of Baton Rouge Casino is no more … it is now known as the Bally’s Baton Rouge Hotel after Bally’s Corporation bought Queen Casino & Entertainment, Inc., according to Hotel Business.

Brandon Lenssen has been appointed the new vice president and general manager of Chamonix Casino Hotel in Cripple Creek, Colorado, the company announced March 10.

Bally’s Corporation announced March 11 that Mira Mircheva is now the executive vice president and chief financial officer, replacing Marcus Glover in that role. Glover is now the EVP of the Global Operations Group.

By Nicole Macedo   Thu, Mar 13, 2025

Deposit limits on legal Netherlands’ gambling websites has resulted in driving traffic to the black market, Norwegian politician says market liberalization will protect players, and more.

Netherlands Illegal Gambling Traffic Grows ‘Significantly’ Following Deposit Limits

A study on illegal gambling domains in the Netherlands on March 10 reported traffic to illegal sites had “increased significantly” following the introduction of deposit limits on legal platforms last year.

The Dutch-based Quality Mark Responsible Affiliates (KVA) scheme noted that traffic to domains found by searching for “casino without limits” or “casino without Cruks,” the Dutch self-exclusion system, had steadily increased since deposit limits went into effect in October.

In October, traffic to illegal domains stood at 172,576, while in November that rose to 294,255. By February it had reached 412,997. As of March 5, traffic to illegal domains had surpassed the 1 million mark.

The number of domains linked to illegal sites that appear in the top search results for “casino without limits” or “casino without Cruks” has also increased from 19 in October to 72 in March, according to KVA’s research.

Norway Conservative Politician: Market Liberalization Will Better Protect Players

Norwegian Conservative party politician Tage Pettersen said ending the current gambling monopoly would ensure better protection for players now gambling with grey-market operators and Norsk Tipping. In an interview with local publication Moss Avis on March 8, Pettersen once again called for market liberalization in Norway, to open up the market to private operators.

The Conservative party member predicts 50 percent of Norway’s online gambling market is currently powered by offshore operators.

Pettersen is one of four party members driving a campaign for market liberalization. In its September 2024 election manifesto, the party called for the monopoly model to be replaced, to provide “greater opportunities to help those who are struggling with problem gambling,” it said.

Looking at market liberalization in Sweden and Denmark, Pettersen said neither of these markets regretted ending the monopoly model.

“In Norway we can create the best model based on the experiences from Denmark, Sweden and Finland. No one in these countries is advocating a return to a monopoly!”

Online Gambling up 30 Percent in Slovakia; Land-based Revenue to Drop in 2025

The Slovakian Gambling Regulatory Authority (URHH) said it expects revenue from land-based gaming to decline in 2025 as online gambling revenue jumped 30 percent to almost $517 million in 2024. URHH posted its annual report March 11, outlining revenue, sales and tax income from the gambling industry for 2024. Last year, legal gambling in Slovakia reached a total player spend of $26.3 billion, up 11 percent from the previous year.

Total gambling revenue for the region across all verticals came in at $1.72 billion, an increase of 9.6 percent from 2023.

Overall land-based revenue in Slovakia was $521.5 million, which included $369 million in revenue from gambling rooms and $156.1 million in casino revenue. But the regulator said it expected this to decline into 2025.

“The Gambling Regulatory Authority expects that revenues from land-based gaming and casinos may decline in 2025, as a result of stricter regulations at the local government level,” the report said.

The authority stressed that this situation may lead to a shift of players to the illegal market, which will require stricter supervision and the introduction of more effective mechanisms to eliminate illegal activities.

Popular Illegal Sites Use Licensed Platforms in Sweden, Reports ATG

New Q4 research from Sweden’s racing monopoly Aktiebolaget Trav och Galopp (ATG) has found 17 out of 20 popular illegal gambling sites use the same platform providers as licensed operators.

Published March 12, an ATG-led report covering illegal gambling activity during Q4 said traffic to unlicensed sites in Sweden has increased tenfold since regulation in 2019.

This is some way below the government’s long-term target of 90 percent, set in 2019, when the country opened its regulated online gambling market.

ATG placed casino channelization at between 59 percent and 74 percent, while sports betting was in a range of 79 percent to 88 percent.

The operator uses web analytics tools to track web traffic within Sweden to licensed and unlicensed gambling companies.

ATG also noted six of the illegal websites flagged offered direct deposits and withdrawals from Swedish bank accounts via BankID, a digital identification system in Sweden which enables players to instantly access their bank account.

Additionally, two of the top 20 were on the gambling regulator’s list of banned unlicensed operators.

By Jill Dorson   Thu, Mar 13, 2025

A group of new Texas lawmakers say they will oppose “any attempt to expand gambling, DraftKings prepping to enter prediction market, more.

New Texas Legislature Won’t Favor Sports Betting, Gambling

It appears the November election didn’t turn out well for the future of gambling expansion in Texas. A group of anti-gambling Republican lawmakers newly elected in the state replaced some who previously supported the idea, according to the Texas Tribune. In addition, three GOP senators who supported a gambling expansion in 2023 say they now oppose the idea. The Texas legislature meets only in odd-numbered years.

House State Affairs Committee Chairman Ken King received a letter from the group March 11. In it, they wrote they would oppose “any attempt to expand gambling.” The letter was sent a day after Democratic Senator Juan Hinojosa’s constitutional amendment that would send the decision of whether or not to legalize sports betting was assigned to the State Affairs Committee March 10.

SJR 65 would allow the state’s professional sports teams to be licensed for sports betting, as well as golf courses that host PGA Tour events. The bill does not specify if in-person or digital sports betting, or both, would become legal.

If it passes, a referendum would go on the state’s November ballot. Voters would select “yes” or “no” to the following:
The constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to legalize wagering in this state on certain sporting events.

A similar constitutional amendment was filed earlier this session in the House. Neither bill has had a hearing.

Given Lt. Governor Dan Patrick’s past comments, it seems unlikely that SJR 65 – or any other gambling expansion proposal – will gain any traction. Patrick, also the president of the Senate, has previously said he’ll call for votes only on legislation that has the strong backing of the Republican Party.

In their letter to King, a dozen GOP senators wrote, “We are confident this legislation does not have the votes necessary to pass the Texas House this session. Given the certainty of its failure, I urge you not to waste valuable committee time on an issue that is dead on arrival.”

The issue has been fraught in Texas for multiple sessions, despite heavy lobbying efforts headed by Las Vegas Sands. That large casino company, which spent $13 million on lobbying ahead of the 2025 session, is aiming to build a casino complex in Dallas. Owner Miriam Adelson last year purchased a majority share of the Dallas Mavericks and wants to build out an entertainment complex around the team’s home arena.

A University of Houston poll has reported that 60 percent of Texans support legalized sports betting and 73 percent support adding destination resort casinos.

But given Patrick’s strong opposition and the new makeup of the legislature, it does not appear that 2025 will be the year for a gambling expansion in the second-biggest state in the U.S.

Another Southern California Sports Bettor Indicted

A Southern California man was indicted March 10 on four counts of tax evasion. He allegedly used corporate funds to pay for sports betting losses. According to a press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California, Edwin Michael Greer used some of the funds to pay off debts to illegal bookmakers Wayne Nix and Ken Arsenian.

Per the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Greer owned an insurance salvage company from 2017-20. During that time, he allegedly used company funds to pay off gambling debt and “concealed these personal payments in the company’s business records, and in many cases directed the payments to be recorded as business expenses to reduce the company’s income.”

If convicted, Greer would face a potential maximum of five years in prison for each count.

Nix, who in 2022 pled guilty to a federal tax fraud charge and running an illegal sportsbook, has not yet been sentenced. According to a 2022 court press release, he ran an illegal sportsbook and laundered money at Las Vegas casinos. Arsenian also pled guilty to running an illegal sportsbook, money laundering and two other federal charges. He agreed to pay $1.1 million in back taxes and forfeited $341,459.

DraftKings Getting Into Prediction Market?

According to The Closing Line, DraftKings has registered the name “DraftKings Predict” with the National Futures Association. The filing indicates that DraftKings could be exploring a prediction market product. The filing shouldn’t come as a complete surprise – DraftKings founder and CEO Jason Robins alluded to his company’s interest in prediction markets during the company’s third-quarter conference call in November.

“I do think there could be a place for it outside of elections,” Robins said. “We’ll have to see where it fits in the priority list, but it is something we’ll plan on looking at ahead of next election, for sure.”

Flutter Entertainment CEO Peter Jackson didn’t outright dismiss getting into prediction markets during his company’s Q4 earnings call. He called prediction markets “an interesting opportunity” at that time. He also said that he believes that such markets don’t have the energy or excitement of a “true sportsbook.”

Digital Sports Betting Becoming Political Football in Mississippi

The Mississippi House amended two Senate bills in order to include legal sports betting along with a sweepstakes ban. Those bills are now back in the Senate, writes iGB.

When the bills left the Senate, neither was about legalizing digital sports betting. But both passed the full House March 11, and bill sponsor Casey Eure says it’s time to negotiate.

One of the bills originally addressed tidelands. The other addressed fines for platforms operating illegally in the state. Language from a dead House digital wagering bill was put into the tidelands bill.

Retail betting has been legal in Mississippi’s casinos since 2018, but attempts since then to add the type of mobile betting available in other states have been rebuffed.

“It’s a possibility” that tidelands will not get addressed this year if the Senate fails to take up mobile sports betting, Eure said, according to the Clarion-Ledger. “But the House’s position is on mobile sports betting. We’re concerned about tidelands, but at this point, it’s all about negotiating.”

Whether the tactic will work is unclear, as the Senate Gaming Committee has not considered digital sports betting this year. Eure inserted the language into the Senate bills because the crossover deadline has passed. Only bills that have already crossed from one chamber to the other are currently in play. Mississippi’s legislature is set to adjourn April 6.

HHR, Sweepstakes in Holding Pattern in Maryland

Maryland lawmakers heard detailed testimony and asked equally as detailed questions during discussion of two gambling bills, but neither measure was called for a vote in committee.

Per iGB, in the House Ways and Means Committee March 11, a two-part hearing yielded no movement for a bill that would ban sweepstakes and another that would allow for historical horse racing machines at Maryland OTBs.

Maryland’s legislature has not passed any gaming expansion bill this session. So far, House and Senate committees have declined to move a legal online casino bill. Lawmakers and stakeholders are at odds on whether or not to legalize, resulting in a stalemate.

But a Senate committee March 7 did advance SB 860, which would ban sweepstakes platforms. The platforms are currently unregulated and the companies that run them do not pay taxes to the state. Casino companies say they should be prohibited.

Sweepstakes proponents maintained in testimony that their platforms are already technically legal in the state. They went on to say that HB 1140, which calls for prohibiting them, would also explicitly ban online casino and could have unintended consequences.

Josh White of KO Public Affairs testified on behalf of Australian-based sweepstakes operator VGW, saying the games are “just like Candy Crush,” the popular online tile game. Both that game and sweepstakes sites are “always free to play,” but consumers can purchase “game tokens for enhanced play.” He suggested that VGW uses sweepstakes-style “promotions in the same way that McDonald’s or Microsoft does,” as a marketing tool.

North Carolina has Strong First 12 Months

March 11 marked the one-year mark since North Carolina launched sports betting, and its regulator shared a snapshot of what the first year looked like.

According to the North Carolina State Lottery Commission, operators took $6.6 billion in bets during the first 12 months. The commission released an anniversary report describing the numbers from the first year, problem and responsible gambling initiatives, and how legalisation and launch happened.

According to the report, operators collected $713 million in gross gaming revenue (GGR) and paid the state $128 million in taxes. The state charges an 18 percent tax on GGR.

The numbers fall in line with other states of similar size and situations, reports iGB. North Carolina has a population of 11 million people, several big-time college football and basketball teams, three major professional sports teams and multiple NASCAR venues.

During the legalisation process, North Carolina lawmakers prioritised problem and responsible gambling initiatives. The lottery commission is required to direct $2 million to the North Carolina Problem Gambling Program. Proceeds are used to support a gambling help line, treatment and education. The state also has a voluntary self-exclusion program.

Some proceeds are also directed to youth sports and universities across the state.

iGaming Ontario Still Without a New Leader

IGaming Ontario, the regulator for Ontario’s sports betting market, continues its search for a replacement for Executive Director Martha Otton, according to a March 11 Gaming News Canada post. Otton last August announced that she would retire at the end of 2024.

But in December, she agreed to stay on until the end of March. GNC reports that the agency has not yet found a replacement. It’s unlikely that a replacement will be found before the end of the month, as the agency “will not be in a position to comment at least until the caretaker period is over and the Premier announces his Cabinet.”

The Conservative Party and Douglas Ford won reelection in Ontario, it was announced March 10. The provincial legislature won’t go back into session until April 14.

In addition to the agency moving forward without an executive director, the vacancy that will be created means a delay in separating the IGO from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario. That process, which started in November, will make the IGO an independent agency.

April 4 marks the third anniversary of go-live for sports betting platforms in Ontario.

In Other News ….

PrizePicks became the first fantasy sports operator to earn the Internet Compliance Assessment Program accreditation from the National Council for Problem Gambling, the company announced March 11. The accreditation is the highest online responsible gaming assessment program available.

By Jill Dorson   Thu, Mar 13, 2025

A group of North Dakota tribes has plans for a 23-acre parcel on the south end of the Strip, GeoComply says tribes can protect sovereignty, get ahead by embracing Class II gaming and more.

North Dakota Tribe to Spend $2B on Strip Property

While the Golden Knights say they have no plans to move from their home at T-Mobile Arena, a group of North Dakota Indian tribes says it is hoping to lure a professional sports team and build a casino on 23 acres they bought on the south end of the Strip across from the Luxor.

The Las Vegas Review-Journal March 13 wrote the “Three Affiliated Tribes — also known as Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation, or MHA Nation — bought 23 acres along the south Strip for $115 million in recent years without concrete plans for the sites or public votes on most of the spending.”

Mark Fox, chairman of the Three Affiliated Tribes of the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation, said he never intended to suggest that the Golden Knights would move from their arena. Rather, he “meant to convey the message that they were interested in our project, as are most of our neighbors. But it was never my intention to suggest that we are pursuing a business relationship with them. We are keeping all of our options open.”

The tribes are aiming to get up to $2 billion in outside funding.

Fox said the tribes will unveil plans for the parcel once they have submitted plans to local government agencies. According to the Review-Journal, the tribes appear to have already submitted preliminary plans to Clark County officials. Records filed February 19 show plans for an integrated resort, including a casino, hotel, convention space and entertainment venue. No renderings were included with the filing.

GeoComply: Tribes Have ‘Unique’ Opportunity

Tribes in every U.S. state have the opportunity to protect their sovereignty and create a solid income through their exclusive right to Class II gaming, GeoComply wrote in a blog post March 11. The company, which provides geolocation and location fraud protection services, wrote that because tribes have exclusivity for Class II gaming, they can get ahead of commercial competitors by offering Class II digital gaming on reservation.

A key sponsor of the Indian Gaming Association conference in San Diego, GeoComply wrote that “tribes can modernize gaming, meeting the changing preferences of today’s tech-savvy consumers while supporting sustainable economic growth within their communities.”

In the post, GeoComply details the rise of cashless gaming and how tribes can leverage that at land-based casinos, as well as how best to educate consumers on the registration process.

“As tribal casinos continue to evolve, they remain foundational to their communities, offering gaming experiences tailored to the needs of modern patrons,” the company wrote. “This path strengthens not only the economies of tribal nations but also ensures that tribal gaming remains a symbol of resilience and leadership in an ever-evolving digital landscape.”

Minnesota Lawsuit Against Tribes Tossed

Running Aces, a horse racetrack in Minnesota, last fall filed a lawsuit against five tribal casinos claiming they were illegally offering certain card games. A federal district court judge dismissed the case, MRP News reported March 12.

The relationship between Minnesota’s two racetracks and Indian Country casinos has been contentious in recent years. The tribes, who have federal exclusivity for Class III gaming, want to see legal sports betting passed in the state. But they want to retain exclusivity for it, while the racetracks also want a cut of the action.

The card-game lawsuit is one of a handful in progress between the tracks and tribes. In the Running Aces case, the judge said he dismissed the case because he believed it wasn’t correctly filed, not based on the merits of the case. Running Aces sued a list of executives, but U.S. District Court Chief Judge Patrick Schiltz said the executives don’t represent the tribes that run the casinos. He also raised concerns that the tribes were not named directly.

Nebraska Lawmakers Hear About Digital Sports Betting

Nebraska lawmakers heard three-plus hours of testimony during their first legal digital betting hearing of the session. There was no vote, but opponents dominated the session, reports iGB.

On March 10, the Nebraska Legislature’s General Affairs Committee heard from representatives from all sides of the issue concerning four legal sports betting bills. The Winnebago Tribe, through its Ho-Chunk, Inc. commercial arm, operates land-based casinos and sportsbooks in Lincoln and Omaha.

Ho-Chunk CEO and President Lance Morgan testified in favor of the gambling expansion. He pointed out that the biggest betting companies in the U.S. account for about 90 percent of market share across the nation. His company has plans to partner with one of those companies should sports betting become legal.

“There are four entities that are an oligarchy,” he testified. “We’re not going to reinvent the wheel. But we are going to make it so that we are not victims in their growth – we are participants.”

The only thing proponents and opponents agreed on is that online wagering is already happening on the black market in Nebraska. Proponents say that legalizing will give law enforcement the tools to tamp down the illegal market. Opponents counter that legalizing will only increase the number of people gambling in total.

Retail betting has been available to Nebraskans in certain locations since 2023, and some lawmakers have been trying unsuccessfully for several years to add digital betting to the menu. Most recently, the issue failed to receive floor consideration during a summer special session.

Monday’s first committee hearing was for LR20CA, a constitutional amendment that would send the decision to legalize digital betting to the voters. That bill would have to pass for any of the filed framework bills to become law.

By Marjorie Preston   Thu, Mar 13, 2025

Thai PM suspends review of Entertainment Complex Bill saying ‘Let all issues be thoroughly examined,’ Sri Lankan officials revive call for a casino regulator and more.

Thailand Pauses Review of Casino Bill
Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has suspended review of the country’s controversial Entertainment Complex bill pending further public comment.

Thailand’s Entertainment Complex bill, which would introduce legal casinos at resorts across the country, will not return to the Cabinet for final review until critics have their say.

Proponents sought speedy passage of the bill, hoping the resort complexes would attract foreign investment and boost tax revenue. Studies indicate that at maturity, the casinos could generate gross gaming revenue (GGR) of up to 308 trillion baht (US$9.1 billion) per year, making Thailand the world’s third-largest market after Macau and Las Vegas.

But opposition, including a series of public protests, has persuaded lawmakers to weigh the legislation more carefully. Protestors gathered outside the Government House on March 11, reported the Bangkok Post. “People who love the country must rise up and unite to fight the legalization of casinos and online gambling,” said former “red shirt” political activist Jatuporn Prompan. “This will ruin our nation and weaken our people.”

In comments to the nation on March 11, Shinawatra said she will hear “the opinions of all stakeholders. There is no need to expedite (the bill’s) return to the Cabinet. Let all issues be thoroughly examined first … because Thailand has never had casinos before.”

Paetongtarn is steering clear of controversy ahead of a no-confidence vote later this month. The opposition People’s Party claims the prime minister, elected last year, is unduly influenced by her father, former Thailand PM Thaksin Shinawatra. Thaksin supports legal casinos as well as online gambling.

Sri Lanka Finance Committee Reiterates Call for Casino Regulator
Sri Lanka’s Committee on Public Finance is demanding that the republic form a regulatory body, and now, to collect past-due taxes and rein in illegal online gambling.

The Sri Lankan Committee on Public Finance (COPF) has again called for the establishment of a casino regulatory authority.

During a March 6 parliamentary session, COPF chair Harsha de Silva said a regulator is long overdue to monitor the industry, and especially crack down on illegal online gambling, which is rife in the Southeast Asian nation.

Sri Lanka first approved the formation of a regulator in 2023, and last month passed a resolution to establish it. But the job remains undone.

“Despite our efforts, the online casino industry remains untaxed,” said de Silva, according to Lankan Newspapers. “We must act swiftly to ensure proper financial oversight.”

Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Finance estimates that INR644 million (US$7.4 million) in casino taxes are now past due because of lax regulatory enforcement.

There are five casino resorts in Sri Lanka. The latest entrant, Melco’s $1.2 billion City of Dreams Sri Lanka, which opened last October.

JP Morgan: March GGR in Macau “Encouraging”
Macau’s gaming industry has generated MOP$5.75 billion (US$718 million) for the first nine days of March, in line with estimates from JP Morgan.

Gross gaming revenue (GGR) at Macau casinos has been tabulated at MOP$5.75 billion (US$718 million) through March 9, or roughly MOP$638 million a day.

According to Macau Business, analysts at JP Morgan Asia Pacific say that’s in keeping with expectations, and indicates stable but unspectacular results for the balance of the month.

The team including DS Kim, Selina Li and Mufan Shi expect GGR to grow by 5 percent in the second half of 2025, for an annual growth rate of 3 percent.

They add that current stock valuations are “cheap enough” to attract long-term investors, with Galaxy Entertainment Group and MGM China Holdings looking particularly attractive.

LET Group Appoints New Directors
LET Group Holdings Ltd., formerly Macau junket firm Suncity, has announced a new slate of directors, including two who resigned in protest last year.

Two of the four, Tou Kin Chuen and John Lo Wai Tung, are rejoining the group after a walkout in November, sparked by a proposed sale of LET’s stake in the Primorye casino Tigre de Cristal. Visitation to the integrated resort in Russia’s Black Sea region has been hard-hit by Putin’s ongoing war with Ukraine.

The former Suncity Group changed its name in 2022, following the conviction of former chairman and junket king Alvin Chau. A Macau court sentenced Chau to 18 years in prison for illegal gambling.

The new directors join Andrew Lo, appointed chairman that same year. Financial website Market Screener reports that shareholders must approve the appointments.

South Korean Casino Operator Plans New Hotel
Paradise Co., operator of four casinos in South Korea, will break ground on a new hotel in Seoul by the end of the month. The property will serve VIP gamblers.

Paradise Co., operator of four foreigner-only casinos in South Korea, has secured funding for a planned luxury hotel in Seoul.

The project will be funded through a KRW550 billion (US$379 million) loan from Woori Bank.

A Paradise official told the Korean Top Daily that the project will “maximize the synergy with existing businesses such as Paradise City and Paradise Hotel Busan … and establish an unrivaled position in the luxury hospitality market.”

Groundbreaking on the 18-story, 200-room hotel originally was expected in the fourth quarter of 2024. Now it is set to begin by the end of March. Opening has been scheduled for 2028.

  Thu, Mar 13, 2025

Brazilian Sport Commission to consider banning betting ads while Columbian platform will “return” VAT tax as promotion, and more.

Brazil’s Sport Commission to Discuss Bill Banning Betting Ads

Brazil’s Sports Commission said that March 12 it would be discussing a bill banning fixed-odds betting advertising in Brazil.

The bill, authored by Senator Styvenson Valentim, would amend Article 33 of Law No 13,756/2018. That law brought forward regulation on fixed-odds sports betting in Brazil. The bill would ban gambling ads across all channels and mediums.

Senator Valentim said the legislator was looking for the ban on gambling advertisements as it is their view that companies are disregarding restrictions on marketing, particularly towards younger people.

“This proposal is justified in view of the sudden change in the profile of bettors, which is now mostly made up of young people, who have at their disposal, 24 hours a day, with just one click, the possibility of placing bets without any barrier to impulsive behavior,” Valentim said.

Luckia Colombia to Give Back VAT Deposit Tax in Bonuses

Luckia Colombia will return player-paid value-added tax (VAT) on deposits submitted to the operator back in the form of promotional bonuses.

A 19 percent VAT on of every deposit made with Colombian licensed operators came into force February 22.

Lina Gallego, Luckia’s country manager in Colombia, told the Colombian media that the company would be assuming the impact of taxes and return them to the players.

The VAT measure was first suggested last year, but attempts to introduce it were stopped in December. The government reintroduced it on February 12 with emergency legislation issued in an updated bill, (Decree No 0175), that had previously eliminated online gambling’s VAT exemption.

Last month, Stake’s Colombia business said it would give players back the 19 percent VAT on deposits placed with it as part of a promotional scheme to counteract the new tax.

Inspired Expands RSI Partnership to South America

U.S. B2B gaming content provider Inspired Entertainment expanded its Rush Street Interactive on March 10, bringing content to three South American nations.

Inspired Entertainment’s iGaming content will launch on Rush Street Interactive’s RushBet platforms in Mexico, Colombia and Peru.

“These new market launches reflect the success of our previous initiatives with Rush Street Interactive and we are excited about the potential ahead,” Inspired Entertainment CEO Brooks Pierce said in a press release.

Inspired Entertainment’s gaming content is also being expanded into Delaware. This follows the group’s launches in New Jersey, Michigan, and Pennsylvania.

LatAm Q4 Round-Up: Operators Position Themselves for Brazil Market Launch

With the majority of gambling companies having published their Q4 results, iGB has analyzed operator performance in the region and their upcoming strategies.

Operators battled for position ahead of the legal Brazil betting market launch on January 1. Flutter, which last year agreed to acquire an initial 56 percent stake in NSX Group, operator of the Brazil-facing Betnacional brand, reported constant currency revenue growth of 19 percent in the market over Q4 2024.

Entain, meanwhile, reported year-on-year revenue growth of 41 percent in Brazil across 2024, though CFO Rob Wood warned that growth will likely level out in 2025 as the market adapts to the new regulations.

Betsson’s largest growth market in 2024 was LatAm, with growth in Argentina, Colombia and Peru powering it to Q4 growth in the region of 46.8 percent to $85.2 million, a company all-time high.

Brazil’s Interministerial Working Group Addressing Gamblers’ Health Gathers

The Ministry of Finance in Brazil has conducted the first meeting of an Interministerial Working Group that aims to address issues related to the health of gamblers in Brazil.

The Interministerial Working Group’s first meeting was held at the Ministry’s headquarters in Brasília. That meeting was attended by the Ministries of Finance, Health and Sports, as well as the Secretariat of Social Communication of the Presidency of the Republic. These bodies comprise the Interministerial Working Group.

“The health of gamblers is one of the priority points in regulation and, as it is a multidisciplinary topic, the work of this (group) will be essential for us to be able to advance on this issue,” Ministry of Finance Secretary of Prizes and Bets Regis Dudena said.

Dudena added that the group had already carried out actions aimed to protect the mental and financial health of gamblers. One such measure being taken is the creation of a gambler self-exclusion platform.

By Frank Legato   Thu, Mar 13, 2025

AGEM will host a problem gambling webinar next week, Vixio expands its Technical Compliance Tool and more.

AGEM Announces Problem Gambling Awareness Webinar
The Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers (AGEM) will stage a timely webinar addressing central issues of problem gambling. AGEM Director of Responsible Gaming Connie Jones will lead the 30-minute webinar, “Seeking Understanding,” on March 18 at 9 a.m. PT.

Staged in recognition of Problem Gambling Awareness Month, this webinar features Dr. Brett Abarbanel and Charmaine Hogan, two leading experts who will provide insights to help attendees navigate the issue within their organizations and the broader industry.

The webinar will seek to answer key questions such as:

• How do we increase public awareness that gambling addiction is a legitimate mental health issue?
• How do we ensure people know about the safeguards in place to prevent harm?
• And what can you do within your business to foster positive and informed conversations around this topic?

Vixio Announces Expanded Compliance Tool

Vixio, a leading provider of regulatory intelligence solutions, announced that it has expanded its Technical Compliance Tool to cover over 80 different information security requirements in two dozen regulated jurisdictions worldwide.

The Technical Compliance Tool is the first of its kind to offer a one-stop solution for navigating technical requirements for gambling operators and suppliers. The addition of information security requirements now allows users to compare infosec standards globally to help maintain compliance and prepare for expansion to additional jurisdictions.

The expansion to include information security compliance takes it a step further at a critical time. Amid heightened concerns about cybersecurity, gambling regulators are increasingly setting highly detailed requirements designed to ensure the technical security of online gaming platforms and the third-party systems that are integrated with them.

Inspired Partners with Ivy Casino

Inspired Entertainment, Inc., a leading provider of B2B gaming content, systems and solutions, announced the launch of its top-performing gaming content with Ivy Casino, a relative newcomer to the established U.K. online gaming market.

Since launching its online casino in 2024, Ivy Casino has gained traction as a standout operator in the U.K. iGaming space. With the integration of Inspired’s world-leading slots portfolio, Ivy Casino is set to offer an even more engaging experience to its players.

Through this collaboration, Ivy Casino gains access to Inspired’s extensive suite of high-performing titles, including Gold Cash Free Spins, 20p Roulette, Cops ‘n’ Robbers Big Money, Reel King Big Money and Big Piggy Bank.

Zitro Launches Concept Line at Aguascalientes

Clover Casino in Aguascalientes is now home to Zitro’s Concept cabinet line, courtesy of operator Golden Lion Entertainment Group.

The Concept seamlessly blends ergonomics, comfort, and state-of-the-art multimedia features. A light show, synchronized with the game sequences, creates a visually stunning atmosphere. The giant Screen Deck touchscreen further elevates the user experience, providing convenience and functionality for both players and operators.

Beyond the striking new cabinets, Clover Casino has also bolstered its game library with the addition of Legendary Sword, Triple Charm Journey, and Fairyland Quest. These three titles are known for their graphics, innovative gameplay mechanics, and enticing prizes.

TCSJohnHuxley Honored with Service Excellence Award

TCSJohnHuxley, a leading manufacturer and supplier of live gaming products and services, has received the Service Excellence Award at the Sands Suppliers Excellence Awards held at Marina Bay Sands. This accolade recognizes their service and delivery of premium gaming solutions to the integrated resort.

The Sands Suppliers Excellence Awards celebrates key partners demonstrating dedication to excellence and innovation. TCSJohnHuxley was commended for its consistent adaptability to Marina Bay Sands’ evolving operational needs and its commitment to design excellence throughout their 15-year partnership.

TCSJohnHuxley has been instrumental in providing Marina Bay Sands with innovative gaming equipment and accessories, enhancing the guest experience. Its ability to meet the resort’s specific requirements has been key to their successful partnership.

IGT Receives Sixth Consecutive European Lottery RG Recertification

International Game Technology PLC announced that its Italian subsidiary, IGT Lottery, obtained the European Lotteries (EL) Responsible Gaming Certification for the sixth consecutive time. Through an agreement between European Lotteries and the World Lottery Association (WLA), IGT Lottery has also obtained WLA Responsible Gaming Certification Level 4, the highest level available.

The EL RG Certification was developed to promote the adoption of RG best practices across EL membership organizations. The EL RG standards are also designed to be complementary to the WLA RG Principles and Framework, allowing companies that meet the implementation of the EL RG Standards to also achieve Level 4 certification of the WLA Framework.

IGT Lottery’s RG program is guided by international best practices. Consistently updated to meet evolving standards, the program operates on three macro guidelines: the promotion of a positive approach to gaming, the prevention of underage gambling, and support for players who need it.

GiG Names Andy Evers SVP Commercial

GiG Software PLC (GiG) has announced the appointment of former DraftKings Commercial Director Andy Evers as its new senior vice president of commercial.

As GiG continues to scale its commercial capabilities in response to a strong pipeline of new partnerships, the appointment of Evers underscores the company’s strategic focus on deepening relationships with its clients and ensuring exceptional service delivery. Evers will take ownership of GiG’s commercial, account management and managed services teams.

With over a decade of experience in the B2B iGaming sector, including leadership roles at Betgenius and DraftKings, Evers brings a wealth of expertise in sportsbook and platform solutions. His track record in fostering high-value partnerships across regulated markets in the U.S., Asia and Europe will be invaluable in driving GiG’s commercial strategy forward.

By Frank Fantini   Thu, Mar 13, 2025

In spite of, or maybe because of Trump 2.0 investors could find some gambling stocks worth investing in.

For a long time now, we’ve measured stocks by pre-COVID and post-COVID.

That generally has worked well, but the comparisons are getting less meaningful each day as we’re now five years past COVID and the more meaningful measure is where we go from here.

Given all of the turmoil over tariffs and other new and proposed policies and their impact on the future of the economy, the new measuring dates might be pre-Trump and now.

Gaming stocks have been mixed since Trump took office. The big Las Vegas casino operators are about flat, suppliers are mostly up and more digital stocks are down than up.

The one group with clear direction is regional casino operators. They are down, several by double digits and some, like Las Vegas-centric Golden Entertainment and Red Rock Resorts, both at 52-week lows. Joining them on the new low list is Churchill Downs, a company with a proven growth record that may be paying the price of its valuation migrating towards its lower-valued peers in a pressured market.

Regional casino operators are facing a tough go because many investors fear that the “Trump Tariffs” will result in a recession that will hit consumer discretionary stocks hard. See sales declines reported recently by retailers for possible evidence of that.

Gaming revenue being hit in a recession makes sense, though that thinking differs from the once popular notion that people will continue to gamble even in hard times. They might, though the continued double-digit growth of online sports betting and iGaming suggests that they will be doing so on their phones from home, not in high-overhead casino buildings.

In other words, don’t be surprised to see brick-and-mortar casino revenue take a hit this year. That already appears to be happening given the generally weak revenue reports recently issued by various states. In a full-blown recession, declines may become significant.

Don’t expect Las Vegas to be exempt. As we’ve mentioned before, the convention business is vulnerable to recession. And, as Las Vegas has become more expensive and is more non-gambling oriented, it may act more like other consumer discretionary industries where customers cut back spending. Nor can we completely ignore any impact of anti-American attitudes building among the city’s biggest source of foreign visitors, Canadians. More insults by Trump aimed at our “51^st state” are certain to alienate a significant number of prospective visitors.

However, there are opportunities in casino stocks. Regional casino valuations are ridiculously low. Lower profits will bring stock prices down even further. In other words, a patient investor can get some slam-dunk winners today, and perhaps at even better prices tomorrow.

This should be especially true of Red Rock and Golden as the former has a clear growth plan and both will benefit long-term from the seemingly inexorable population growth of the Las Vegas Valley.

Finally, there are the digital plays. Prices have been coming down. Flutter, Rush Street Interactive and Gambling.com Group have fallen double digits since inauguration day even though they are growing businesses in a growing sector.

In summation, there are opportunities for long-term gaming stock investors despite, and in some cases perhaps because of, Trump 2.0.

By Robert Fletcher   Fri, Mar 14, 2025

Lilac Club Casino, a new land-based venue in Rochester, New Hampshire, will host its grand opening later today (March 14) after staging a ribbon-cutting ceremony earlier this week.

Spanning 32,000 square feet, Lilac Club Casino boasts over 200 gaming machines and a host of table games. Players in New Hampshire can access blackjack, roulette craps and a 12-table poker room.

On top of this, the casino will house the Lucky Oak Bar & Grill, operated by the Briar Group.

Members of the public will be able to gamble at the casino from 9am local time today. This comes after the official ribbon-cutting on March 10, attended by local dignitaries, business leaders and other special guests.

Among those in attendance for the ceremony was Rochester Mayor Paul Callaghan and Eric Barbaro, chief operating officer of Granite State Gaming & Hospitality.

Lilac Club to Become ‘Vital’ Part of Community

Commenting on the new venture, Barbaro said once operational, the casino will become a key part of the Rochester community. He added that it will bring new opportunities to the local area.

“As we prepare for our grand opening, we are thrilled to welcome guests from near and far to experience everything our casino has to offer,” Barbaro said.

“Lilac Club Casino is more than just a business. It’s a vital part of our community that will create jobs, foster local partnerships, and contribute to the region’s growth.

“We are excited to play a role in the continued success of Rochester. We very much look forward to serving our guests and community, for many years to come.”