By Robert Fletcher   Fri, May 2, 2025

Dining concepts at the Hollywood Casino sites will include Lucky Goat, Antique Taco, Pretty Cool Ice Cream and Five50 Pizza.

Penn Entertainment’s new Hollywood Casino locations in Joliet and Aurora have partnered with McClain Camarota Hospitality (MCH) to bring prominent Chicago chefs and restaurants to the Illinois locations.

Both locations will feature the Boulevard Food & Drink Hall, offering a range of dining options to visitors. MCH will design and operate the two Boulevard locations.

Concepts will include Lucky Goat, a new burger restaurant from celebrated chef Stephanie Izard. Both Boulevard halls will also house the first suburban locations for Antique Taco, as well as Pretty Cool Ice Cream and Five50 Pizza.

In addition, the Boulevard at the Joliet site will open a breakfast and bakery counter and a mid-century Hollywood-inspired bar. The hall is currently under construction.

Founded by Shawn McClain, MCH runs several other dining concepts across the U.S. These include Sage in Las Vegas, Chicago’s Green Zebra and Spring, and Highlands Detroit.

Local Focus For Hollywood Casino

“We’re proud to feature local area chefs and restaurants at the new Hollywood Casino Joliet,” said Ruben Warren, vice president and general manager of Hollywood Casino Joliet. “Boulevard food hall will offer premium dining options. We can’t wait to introduce our guests to this new social space later this year.”

Greg Moore, vice president and general manager of Hollywood Casino Aurora, made similar comments on this local focus. He said: “Boulevard is designed to be a lively place for customers to gather and enjoy great food and drinks.

“Bringing in local establishments that our customers know and love is an excellent addition to our new best-in-class property.”

The announcement follows another dining partnership for the two Hollywood Casino sites. In March, it was confirmed celebrity chef and entrepreneur Giada De Laurentiis would open restaurants at the two locations.

The Joliet casino is due to open in Q4, with the Aurora venue following in H1 next year.

By Robert Fletcher   Fri, May 2, 2025

White Earth Nation is seeking permission to build a new casino, convention center, hotel and truck stop.

Minnesota-based White Earth Nation has revealed plans to build a new casino in the state and presented its proposal to the local council where the venue could be built.

White Earth Nation recently purchased 280 acres of land near Moorhead for the new casino development. The project also includes a convention center, hotel and truck stop.

After an initial announcement, the tribe has progressed plans, holding talks with Moorhead City Council. Valley News Live reports that the tribe has also spoken with the Clay County Commission to secure additional support.

White Earth Nation is keen to place the land into a trust with the federal government. This would mean that it would not pay property taxes. However, the tribe is yet to take this step.

Public Uncertainty Over Casino Project

The tribe did encounter opposition during the Clay County Commission meeting. Some of the citizens in attendance flagged certain concerns about the project.

Issues raised include an increase in law enforcement and fire department calls to the casino without the tribe paying property taxes funding the services. There were also concerns over transparency, with some saying if the land is put into a trust, the county would have no say on anything being done with the land.

As for the council, several members raised similar concerns, with the land trust issue flagged again. One member questioned if it is possible to put a portion of the land into trust.

Should the project get the green light, the venue would feature a gaming floor spanning up to 100,000 square feet, housing 1,200 slot machines and 12 table games. The convention center and banquet areas would cover 120,000 square feet and could accommodate concerts.

White Earth plans on hiring 550 people and offering a $19-per-hour minimum wage, with a lower wage for tipped workers.

By Robert Fletcher   Thu, May 1, 2025

Caesars will make improvements to the gaming floor, accommodations and dining at Harveys Lake Tahoe.

Caesars Entertainment has announced plans to transform Harveys Lake Tahoe into Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe Hotel & Casino, with work to begin this summer.

The estimated $160 million renovation project will include upgrades across gaming, dining and accommodations. Caesars reported Harveys Lake Tahoe will remain open throughout the revamp.

Detailing the project, Caesars said the 88,000-square-foot casino floor will be “reimagined”. New carpets, lights, tables, chairs and displays will be installed alongside new slot machines, a new High Limit Room and World Series of Poker Room.

All rooms within the Remus Tower, formerly the Mountain Tower, will also be remodeled. In addition, the Romulus Tower, previously the Tahoe Tower, will be refreshed after undergoing a full remodel in 2020.

As for dining, Cleo’s Coffee and Cocktails will open in the resort’s lobby. This will run as a café during the day and transform into an upscale lounge at night. Other on-site dining amenities include Gordon Ramsay HELL’S KITCHEN and WOLF by Vanderpump.

Meanwhile, Caesars will also make improvements to Harrah’s Lake Tahoe across the street. Connected to the resort, the facility will see improvements such as renovations to its Summit Suites.

Work at Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe Hotel & Casino is slated to continue throughout 2025, pausing for the summer season. The entire project is to be completed in mid-2026.

Caesars Talks Up ‘Tremendous Transformation’

Anthony Carano, president and chief operating officer of Caesars Entertainment, said the new-look resort will bring in a “new era of luxury” for Lake Tahoe.

“The property transformation has begun,” Carano said. “It will continue throughout 2026 with the all-new hotel tower, hotel lobby, stellar restaurants and the start of a completely reimagined casino coming online this summer for our guests to enjoy right away. Our second phase will begin in the fall, with the entire project completing next summer.

“With its bold new look and modern energy, Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe will set the stage for a new era of luxury in the region.”

Karie Hall, senior vice president and general manager of Harrah’s and Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe, said: “We are thrilled to usher in a new era with the transition to Caesars Republic.

“This transformation honors the storied history of Harveys while introducing modern amenities and elevated experiences. We look forward to welcoming guests to a resort that blends the best of our past with an exciting vision for the future.”

Caesars Republic Lake Tahoe is the second Caesars Republic to open in two years, following Caesars Republic Scottsdale, a Hilton Hotel.

By Frank Legato   Wed, Apr 30, 2025

A rezoning bill that is a necessary component of Steve Cohen's multibillion-dollar Metropolitan Park casino proposal is moving through the New York Senate, despite infighting between local officials.

New York Mets owner Steve Cohen’s plan to transform parking space at the team’s Citi Field ballpark in Queens into a casino resort cleared a major hurdle this week as a state Senate committee narrowly voted to advance a bill required to rezone the land for a casino.

The chance for Cohen’s $8 billion project to win one of three available downstate casino licenses hinges on passage of a bill to authorize construction of a casino on what is currently designated as parkland. Without such legislation, the plan to create what Cohen calls Metropolitan Park on 50 acres of city-owned land cannot move forward.

Such “parkland alienation” bills are normally introduced by the lawmakers representing the district in which the project is proposed. While Queens Assemblymember Larinda Hooks, who supports the project, introduced the legislation in the lower chamber, Queens state Senator Jessica Ramos refused to introduce an alienation bill, citing vehement opposition from her constituents.

The vast majority of the project is in Ramos’ district. However, 12 acres of the 50-acre project is within the district of Flushing state Senator John Liu. Last month, Liu introduced the park alienation bill after Cohen promised to build a pedestrian bridge over Flushing Creek to give easy access to his constituents, who he said have communicated an outpouring of support for the project.

Cohen agreed to explore building “Flushing Skypark,” a pedestrian bridge over Flushing Creek linking downtown Flushing to the project area. Liu has said the bridge would become an attraction in its own right. Cohen also pledged to donate $100 million over 10 years to Flushing Meadows Corona Park if the bridge isn’t built.

On Tuesday, the Senate Committee on Cities advanced the bill to the Senate floor on a 4-3 vote, without a recommendation for passage by the full Senate.

The proposed Metropolitan Park would include a Hard Rock casino, a hotel and a music venue, plus 25 acres of green space, athletic fields, bike paths, and access to Flushing Bay. The project also would include a “Taste of Queens Food Hall,” a concert venue and improvement of the transit facilities surrounding the area to the tune of $1 billion.

Cohen has said he will offer a community benefits package with the project, with support for responsible gaming and improvement of youth and senior services, including $10 million for a health clinic in East Elmhurst, $10 million for a youth and senior center in Corona, and $5 million for addiction and mental health services in Flushing.

“For decades, these 50 acres of asphalt have only been parking lots,” Karl Rickett, a Metropolitan Park spokesperson, said in a statement published by the Queens Eagle. “Today’s committee approval brings us one step closer to delivering 25 acres of actual public park space, 23,000 union jobs, new entertainment options, and over $1 billion in community benefits for Queens.”

In a separate statement to the newspaper, Ramos doubled down on her opposition, “I have consistently voiced the will of the majority of my constituents and I will continue to do,” said Ramos, who is running for New York City mayor. “We do not want a casino in our backyard. The costs far outweigh the benefits.”

The narrow committee approval came after a hearing at which Liu testified in favor of the bill. “The site in question is primarily not in my district, but a fair amount of it is in my district,” Liu told the panel, according to the Eagle report. “Notwithstanding the precise boundaries of my district, or really any one district, the size and magnitude of what’s being proposed will clearly have very strong impacts on my district. It’ll have impacts, I dare say, even on your districts, just because it’s a very large New York City downstate project.

“The reality is that it also directly affects my residential and my commercial areas in Downtown Flushing. It’s a hop and skip away.”

The Assembly version of the park alienation bill has yet to be brought up for a committee vote. Formal applications for the New York casinos are due in late June, with decisions on the licenses expected by the end of the year.

By Robert Fletcher   Wed, Apr 30, 2025

Iris Hotel Group and Morris Group have been linked with a takeover of the Reef Hotel Casino.

The Reef Hotel Casino in Queensland, Australia has confirmed media reports that it is in talks with several parties over a possible takeover of the venue.

According to The Australian, the Reef Hotel Casino is speaking with both the Iris Hotel Group and Morris Group. The casino has released a statement to confirm discussions with the two parties.

Iris is a fully integrated development and hospitality group, while Morris Group is owned by billionaire Chris Morris.

Reef Corporate Services (RCSL), which is responsible for the Reef Casino Trust (RCT), said the talks relate to a full takeover over the property in north-west Queensland. However, it said discussions are “incomplete” and remain ongoing.

The statement also made clear there is no certainty a deal will be agreed, while no party is obliged to proceed. It added that any acquisition would be subject to certain conditions, including regulatory approvals.

Reef Hotel Casino Proposals Exceed AUS$200 million

RCSL also referred to the reported figure as to how much the deal could be worth. The Australian said the successful buyer would pay over $AUS200 million (US$128 million) to acquire the venue.

In its statement, RCSL confirmed this, saying both proposals are in excess of $200 million for all components. This covers all units of the RCT, as well as all issued share capital of both Casinos Austria International Cairns (CAIC), which operates the casino, and RCSL itself.

However, while price and value allocation remain under negotiation, RCSL said the value allocated to units in RCT is less than $200 million.

“While discussions are ongoing, investors are cautioned not to rely on any speculation regarding the negotiations, including any price or transaction terms that may be achieved or the allocation of total value between the units in RCT, the shares in CAIC and the shares in RCSL,” the statement said.

“RCT will continue to keep the market informed in accordance with its continuous disclosure obligations.”

Located in Cairns, the Reef Hotel Casino opened in January 1997. It features a large casino, hotel, on-site dining options and event and conference facilities.

By Robert Fletcher   Tue, Apr 29, 2025

STN Sportsbook will be based inside the Golden Circle at Treasure Island Las Vegas Hotel & Casino

Station Casinos has opened its first, full-scale STN Sportsbook on the Las Vegas Strip through a new partnership with Treasure Island Las Vegas Hotel & Casino.

The STN Sportsbook will be integrated within the Golden Circle at Treasure Island, Station Casinos has confirmed. Golden Circle is already established as a retail sportsbook venue on the Strip.

Spanning an area of 3,089 square feet, the sportsbook features 74 high-definition screens and video walls for viewing live sports events. Customers can wager on a range of sports across eight kiosks at the venue.

In addition, the new facility provides a dedicated mobile sign-up location. The STN Sports mobile app is accessible from anywhere inside Nevada.

Station Casinos was able to proceed with the launch following approval from the Nevada Gaming Commission.

‘Unparalleled’ Betting Experience on the Strip

Commenting on the launch, Treasure Island Executive Vice President and General Manager Najam Khan said the casino is excited to begin its new partnership with Station Casinos.

“This collaboration underscores our commitment to providing exceptional hospitality and entertainment, now integrated with Station Casinos’ innovative approach to sports betting,” Khan said. “The sportsbook will offer an unparalleled betting experience with cutting-edge technology and deluxe amenities. We can’t wait to introduce it to our guests.”

Jason McCormick, vice president of race and sports operations at Station Casinos, also talks up the launch. He said: “Through this partnership, we will be able to bring the energy, innovation, and hospitality of STN Sports to the property’s guests.

“We are excited for the opportunity to further our commitment in providing the best sports betting experience across Nevada.”

By Robert Fletcher   Tue, Apr 29, 2025

Work at the Casino Lac-Leamy will be ongoing for two years but the casino will remain open throughout.

The Quebec government has approved plans for a new convention center on the Casino Lac-Leamy complex grounds in the city of Gatineau.

Announced at the weekend, the convention center will be a joint project between Quebec’s government and Loto-Québec. Work at the Casino Lac-Leamy will last for an estimated two years.

Covering an area of 100,000 square feet, the new venue aims to allow Quebec to host more large-scale events. Developers also hope to attract more business tourists and generate economic benefits for the region.

Loto-Québec is committing CAN$50 million (US$36 million) in funding to the project. To help market the new venue, the government will provide $1.5 million to the local tourist board.

Casino Lac-Leamy will operate as normal throughout construction.

Convention Center Will Make Region More Competitive

Caroline Proulx, minister of tourism and minister responsible for the Lanaudière region, is supportive of the plans. She said tourism is a “true driver” of economic development and the new venue will help attract more people to the region.

“Gatineau and the Outaouais region have all the assets needed to establish themselves as a leading business tourism destination,” Proulx said. “Thanks to this new infrastructure and the management provided by Loto-Québec, a partner recognized for its event expertise, our government is delivering a project that lives up to the community’s ambitions.”

Jean-François Bergeron, president and CEO of Loto-Québec, said the venue will allow the region to become more competitive.

“Loto-Québec is proud to once again contribute to the vitality of Gatineau and the Outaouais region,” Bergeron said. “The expansion of our convention center will allow the region to be much more competitive and thus attract larger-scale events whose spinoffs will benefit the entire community.”

By Frank Legato   Mon, Apr 28, 2025

Nearly 10 years after acquiring a majority stake in Ainsworth Game Technology, Novomatic has agreed to buy up the remaining 47 percent of shares in a deal that values Ainsworth at A$336.5 million.

Austria’s Novomatic AG Group, Europe’s largest gaming technology group and one of its leading suppliers and operators, has signed an agreement to acquire all outstanding shares of Australian slot supplier Ainsworth Game Technology. Novomatic is currently the majority shareholder of Ainsworth.

Novomatic announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire Ainsworth via Scheme of Arrangement. The company holds an existing stake of 52.9 percent in Ainsworth, which it purchased in 2016 from company founder Len Ainsworth. It has agreed to a Scheme Implementation Deed with Ainsworth to acquire all of its outstanding shares, 47.1 percent of the company, for a “best and final” cash consideration of A$1 (US$0.64) per share.

Cash consideration implies an equity value of A$336.8 million and enterprise value of A$336.5 million for Ainsworth. The cash consideration represents a premium of approximately 35 percent to Ainsworth’s last closing price and 28 percent to Ainsworth’s six-month volume-weighted average price to April 24, 2025, the last trading day prior to the date of the announcement.

Ainsworth’s Independent Board Committee (IBC) has unanimously recommended that Ainsworth shareholders vote in favor of the transaction.

The transaction is subject to, among other things, Ainsworth shareholder approval and customary closing conditions, and is expected to close in the second half of 2025. The Novomatic offer is not conditional on due diligence or regulatory approvals. Foreign Investment Review Board approval has been received.

“The acquisition of Ainsworth is consistent with our international growth strategy and the expansion of our presence across the Asia-Pacific and the U.S. region,” said Stefan Krenn, a member of the executive board of Novomatic AG, in a press statement. “As a long-term shareholder, we are familiar with the business and believe that integrating Ainsworth into our operations is in the best interest of this strategy.

“We look forward to welcoming the highly qualified and experienced Ainsworth employees into the Novomatic family to become part of our international growth and success.”

“The proposal put forward by Novomatic, who is already the majority shareholder, represents a significant premium to long-term trading value and is compelling for AGI minority shareholders,” said Ainsworth Chairman Danny Gladstone in a statement. “The IBC have carefully evaluated the proposed Scheme Consideration against the company’s medium- and long-term growth prospects and alternative opportunities, and has unanimously formed the view that the proposal represents attractive and certain value for AGI minority shareholders.”

Ainsworth is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX), with headquarters in Newington, Sydney and operations worldwide, including North and South America. Ainsworth is one of the leading manufacturers and suppliers of gaming solutions in Australasia as well as in the Americas.

Ainsworth has grown its revenues significantly since opening its U.S. headquarters in 2016. The company made a name for itself in the high-denomination video space, and more recently has branched out into lower-denom products and game families with much success.

Novomatic is one of the largest gaming technology groups in the world, and a full-service provider in all segments of the gaming industry through approximately 300 international subsidiaries. The company is active in over 130 countries and employs more than 26,200 employees.

A meeting for Ainsworth shareholders to vote on the proposal is due to take place after July, after shareholders receive an independent expert report on the deal. If the deed is approved, the deal will be submitted for final court approval. Ainsworth expects this in August 2025.

Ainsworth shares were up 32.4 percent to A98 cents at 1p.m. AEST on April 28, taking it close to Novomatic’s A$1-per-share valuation.

By Robert Fletcher   Mon, Apr 28, 2025

Hackers have threatened to release sensitive details about the Catawba Nation’s Two Kings Casino in North Carolina, including blueprints that reveal the location of the casino’s chip vault.

Cybercriminal gang Anubis posted a ransom threat on its dark website last week. According to Cybernews, this included a time counting down to when details on Two Kings Casino would be made public.

North Carolina newspaper The Herald has since reported that the casino is working with exterior cybersecurity experts on the issue. Other information threatened by the hackers includes surveillance camera placement.

Two Kings Casino Blueprints ‘Outdated’ – Catawba Nation

Trent Troxel, vice president of the Catawba Nation Gaming Authority, which oversees the casino, spoke out on the issue. He said the sensitive documents in question are outdated and involve previous design and construction plans.

“Although our investigation is ongoing, there is no indication that our network, operations or customer data have been impacted or that this information was obtained via the Catawba Two Kings Casino network,” Troxel said. “We take the security of customer data very seriously and will continue to diligently investigate.”

Based on a reservation near Rock Hill, the Catawba Indian Nation has approximately 3,300 citizens. The tribe opened its temporary casino in 2021, with a permanent location due to launch early next year.

The current Two Kings Casino features a range of slots and table games, as well as an on-site sportsbook.

By Robert Fletcher   Mon, Apr 28, 2025

Penn Entertainment has revealed plans to relocate its Ameristar Casino Hotel Council Bluffs riverboat casino operations in Iowa to a new, land-based property.

Announced by Penn Entertainment last week, the new facility will be renamed Hollywood Casino Council Bluffs. The relocation project is expected to cost between $180 million and $200 million.

The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission has already given its approval to the initiative. This comes following a 15-year extension of Ameristar’s partnership with the nonprofit Qualified Sponsoring Organization (QSO) Iowa West Racing Association. All commercial operators in Iowa must have an operating agreement with a QSO licensed to offer gaming.

Hollywood Council Bluffs will cover a total area of 125,000 square feet, with some 58,000 square feet being dedicated to gaming. It will complement the existing ESPN Bet sportsbook, a 160-room hotel and dining options.

Construction is expected to take approximately 18-24 months following the design and permitting approval process. Penn is entitled to obtain financing for the project from Gaming and Leisure Properties, Inc.

The existing riverboat will be vacated upon the opening of the new property.

Council Bluffs to Improve ‘Competitive Positioning’ for Penn

Todd George, executive vice president of operations for Penn, said the new venue will offer an enhanced experience for visitors.

“This project will enhance the quality and efficiency of our Council Bluffs location,” he said. “It will significantly improve the property’s competitive positioning in the greater Omaha market.

“Penn’s diversified portfolio of casino properties is core to our omni-channel approach to entertainment, which combines our best-in-class retail operations, and a database of more than 32 million Penn Play members with our robust interactive and media footprint.”

Iowa West Racing Association President and CEO said Brenda Mainwaring also talked up the “exciting” new project. Mainwaring said: “We are thrilled with the exciting development plans for the new Hollywood Casino Council Bluffs.

“For nearly 30 years, the Ameristar riverboat has been providing not only dining and entertainment, but thousands of jobs and millions of dollars in support of our community. Penn’s commitment to reinvesting in Council Bluffs is laudable and we are grateful for our ongoing partnership.”

By Jess Marquez   Fri, Apr 25, 2025

Only nine applicants remain in the downstate New York casino license race, now that Las Vegas Sands has withdrawn its proposal at Long Island’s Nassau Coliseum.

The race for three downstate New York casino licences has dwindled to nine applicants as Las Vegas Sands (LVS) announced plans April 23 to withdraw its bid, citing iGaming concerns.

The company said that while it “strongly believes” in the potential for a casino at the Nassau Coliseum on Long Island, the threat of online gaming cannibalisation was too much to bear. Executives had warned that iGaming legalization could derail its bid in each of the company’s two previous earnings calls.

“Sands has decided not to bid for a casino licence in New York,” the company confirmed in a statement.

No follow-ups or additional comments were given during LVS’ first-quarter earnings call later that day. The best use of its capital, the company said, is instead to repurchase LVS and Sands China shares. According to its first-quarter report, LVS repurchased $450 million worth of shares during the quarter.

Its New York proposal had included a $4 billion integrated resort along with a range of amenities. LVS last July secured a 42-year lease for the site, after a previous 99-year lease had been challenged in court by Hofstra University. The school had been the biggest opponent of the development.

The company said it is attempting to offload its bid to a third party that could “address both land-based and digital markets in New York.” This is noteworthy, given that most all of the leading U.S. operators are already tied to their own bids or partnered with others.

If an agreement can’t be reached concerning the property’s future, LVS said, it “will work with Nassau County and other parties to attempt to ensure it is developed consistent with Nassau County’s long-term vision for the site.” The county subsequently said in a statement it would “crystallize within the next 30 days whether or not to entertain a casino component or develop the site without.”

LVS is now the second group to formally pull its New York casino bid. Hudson’s Bay Co., which had proposed a casino at the flagship Sak’s Fifth Avenue retail store in Manhattan, announced its intention to withdraw on April 10.

By Jess Marquez   Fri, Apr 25, 2025

Longtime industry veteran Mike Dreitzer (l.) has been named as the next chair of the Nevada Gaming Control Board, effective June 23.

On April 21,  Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo announced the appointment of Mike Dreitzer as the next chairman of the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB).

Current Chairman Kirk Hendrick, appointed to a four-year term in 2023, announced his intention to resign in January. Hendrick said at the time he would stay through the end of Nevada’s legislative session, which ends on June 2. His last day, per the governor’s office, will be June 22.

Mike Dreitzer will take the reins afterward as the most public-facing regulator in the state. Nevada is unique in that it has two regulatory bodies, the NGCB and the Nevada Gaming Commission. The part-time commission has jurisdiction over the full-time board, but the board chair leads most of the day-to-day legwork.

Dreitzer will now finish out Hendrick’s term through January 2027, at which point he could be reappointed to serve a full term.

“As he prepares to step down, I’m exceptionally grateful to Chairman Hendrick for his partnership and service to our state,” Lombardo said in a statement. “Under his leadership, the Nevada Gaming Control Board has eliminated bureaucratic hurdles and made tremendous progress in gaming modernisation and innovation in Nevada.”

Dreitzer, who most recently served as CEO of slot supplier Gaming Arts, said he looks forward “to furthering the essential mission of the board, while supporting its agents and staff to ensure the highest quality gaming regulation for our state.”

The industry veteran will oversee Nevada gaming at a pivotal time. For multiple years, the Las Vegas casino industry has been swept up in a wide-ranging scandal involving money laundering and illegal bookmaking.

Under Hendrick, the NGCB administered fines of $10.5 million and $8.5 million to Resorts World Las Vegas (RWLV) and MGM Resorts, respectively, for their roles in the scandal. The NGC approved the RWLV fine in March and will consider the MGM fine at its meeting on April 24. Scott Sibella, a former executive with ties to both entities, also had his gaming licence revoked during Hendrick’s tenure.

The scandal was unearthed and prosecuted by federal authorities, which has reflected poorly on state regulators. An employment discrimination lawsuit filed by a staff member last September also indicates a level of internal strife. Slow processes and conservative approvals had also caused much frustration from operators and suppliers, although Hendrick had worked to change that.

In addition to facing negative scrutiny, the NGCB has seen a high amount of turnover for several years.

Dreitzer will become the fifth chair since January 2019, when Sandra Douglass Morgan took over from Becky Harris. Morgan was replaced in November 2020 by Brin Gibson, who then stepped down in November 2022. Brittnie Watkins briefly served as interim chair before Hendrick, who now hands the baton to Dreitzer.

The latter has experience across both commercial gaming and state government. Prior to Gaming Arts, Dreitzer also held executive roles at Ainsworth, BMM Testlabs and others. Before all of that, he worked as a deputy attorney general for the state from 1996 to 1999. Dreitzer will now look to draw from both of those experiences in policing Nevada gaming, which is coming off four consecutive record-setting years of performance post-Covid.

“Handing over the gavel to Chairman Mike Dreitzer will be a smooth transition,” Hendrick said in a statement. “Mike and I have known each other for almost 30 years going back to our days in the attorney general’s office. Mike is the perfect choice by Governor Lombardo based on Mike’s long career in gaming law, government, regulatory compliance and business.”

By Jess Marquez   Fri, Apr 25, 2025

Texas Lottery director steps down, Cohen’s New York bid gets a boost, Resorts World Las Vegas hires new compliance chief and more.

Texas Lottery Chief Resigns Amid Courier Scandal

Ryan Mindell, executive director of the Texas Lottery Commission, announced his resignation April 21 in the midst of controversy stemming from a 2023 jackpot that has since resulted in a ban on courier services in the state.

Mindell, who was grilled by lawmakers at a February budget hearing about the jackpot, had been under heavy scrutiny since. One entity purchased $25 million worth of tickets through several courier services, ultimately winning about $60 million from an advertised jackpot of $95 million.

The lottery’s chief financial officer, Sergio Rey, will step in as interim director, and the commission will consider next steps at its next meeting April 29.

According to the Austin American-Statesman, the Texas House set the lottery’s budget at zero for the next financial cycle, meaning that if nothing changes by Sept. 1, the lottery could cease to operate in the state.

“I am in favor of doing anything that puts an end to lottery in Texas while we protect the money that was going to veterans,” Senator Bob Hall told the American-Statesman.

New York Official Says Cohen’s Bid Could Pass Despite Her Opposition

As the New York casino race drags on, Steve Cohen’s $8 billion Metropolitan Park bid in Queens could secure the zoning approvals it requires despite opposition from state Senator Jessica Ramos. A significant portion of the development is in her district, but she has so far refused to introduce legislation to rezone the land for gaming.

However, things changed in late March when Senator John Liu agreed to champion the bill—a smaller portion of the development is also in his district. Despite Ramos’ objection, she now acknowledges that the bid could pass with Liu’s support.

“I don’t know if I have the power to block that legislation,” she told the New York Post April 20. Ramos also added that she and Liu “are having a profound disagreement about this. I disagree with him. I think he’s wrong.”

Even with the zoning changes, there is no guarantee that Cohen and partner Hard Rock International will get one of three available downstate licenses, which are due to be awarded by the end of the year. However, it would not be in contention without them, and Cohen has said the project is dead without the casino license.

RWLV Hires New Compliance Chief

Resorts World Las Vegas (RWLV) April 22 announced the appointment of Jennifer Roberts as the casino’s new chief compliance officer. According to a release, Roberts will “oversee Resorts World Las Vegas’ compliance function, including regulatory compliance, registration and licensing, AML, responsible gaming, and technical compliance.”

Prior to RWLV, Roberts most recently served as vice president and general counsel of WynnBet. She also has years of experience as a gaming attorney and as a regulator with the Tennessee Education Lottery Corporation and the UNLV International Center for Gaming Regulation.

Roberts will step into the role at a pivotal time, as the casino undergoes massive remediation efforts after being fined $10.5 million by Nevada regulators for anti-money laundering violations. The casino had allowed known illegal bookmakers, including Mathew Bowyer, to frequent and gamble at the casino. In the case of Bowyer, RWLV also hired his wife Nicole to be his personal host.

“I am thrilled to join this stellar team of professionals and help drive the continued development of a best-in-class compliance program here at Resorts World Las Vegas,” Roberts said in a release. “I want to thank the leadership team for this opportunity and look forward to working closely with them as we build on the significant progress already made.”

Bally’s to Try Again with IPO for Chicago Casino

After a first attempt to offer ownership shares in its Chicago casino to women and minorities fell through earlier this year, Bally’s Corp. April 23 announced a new plan, one geared toward Chicago and Illinois residents.

In a new prospectus filed to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Bally’s laid out the details for an initial public offering (IPO) for its Bally’s Chicago subsidiary. This is the second attempt by Bally’s to roll out an IPO for the $1.7 billion casino, due to open in September 2026.

The first IPO attempt this year was geared specifically towards women and minority groups. In its host community agreement with the city, Bally’s is required to pledge at least 25 percent of project equity to “Minority individuals and Minority-Owned and Controlled Businesses.”

However, the SEC never took action on the first prospectus, rendering it void. Bally’s was also sued by two white Texas residents who claimed that the restricted offering was discriminatory and unconstitutional. This time around, the company seems to be broadening the criteria for potential investors.

“We currently intend to provide preferential allocations … to City of Chicago residents and Illinois residents during this offering,” the prospectus reads. As with the first offering, residents of Florida, New York and Texas may also invest.

It remains unclear whether the SEC will now respond to this second attempt. Bally’s did confirm to iGB that the new offering still complies with the city’s minority ownership requirements.

Indiana Casino Relocation Study to Identify Two Potential Regions

Earlier this year, Full House Resorts came up short in its efforts to relocate its casino in Rising Sun, Indiana to New Haven, after Senate Bill 293, which would have facilitated the move, did not advance out of committee. But a second bill, Senate Bill 43, has advanced through both chambers and was sent to Gov. Mike Braun April 23, per WANE.

SB43 will allow the Indiana Gaming Commission to contract with a gaming research firm to conduct a study identifying two potential regions in the state where a new gaming license could be located. The results of the study would be due by Nov. 1, 2025.

If the study should find that one of the best regions is in northeast Indiana where Full House attempted to move, it’s likely that efforts will ramp up again in future years.

Planet Hollywood to Open New Poker Room in May

Planet Hollywood on the Las Vegas Strip is gearing up to open its new, expanded poker room sometime in May, according to an April 18 report from PokerNews. The casino closed its former room approximately four years ago. When finished, the new room will feature 23 tables, including 12 for cash games. It will also feature more than 20 flatscreens and a balcony overlooking the casino floor.

“There’s no fun rooms left,” Poker Room Manager Anthony Moody told PokerNews. “So we’re trying to bring that back a little bit. Whether it’s low-limit PLO or bomb pot games or mixed games.”

Bally’s Saves Bronx High School with $8.5 Million Donation

Bally’s Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Bally’s Corp., April 22 agreed to purchase Preston High School, an all-girls Catholic school in the Bronx on the verge of closure, for $8.5 million. Bally’s in turn will lease back the property to the school for $1 per year, and will pay up to $1.6 million in additional repairs and closing fees. Preston could purchase the property back down the line and also has right of first refusal.

Notably, the Sisters of the Divine Compassion, which owns the property, rejected the same proposal in March. But increased pressure from alumni, including singer and actress Jennifer Lopez, caused the change of plan. Bally’s owns a golf course nearby and seeks to develop a casino on the site.

“Our commitment to Preston is not about business — it’s about doing what’s right. Supporting institutions like this is central to our belief in being a trusted, long-term partner to the communities we serve,” Bally’s Chairman Soo Kim said in a statement.

“This is more than just keeping a school open. It’s preserving a legacy,” principal Jennifer Connolly said in a statement. “It’s ensuring that young women in the Bronx will always have access to the quality, values-based education that Preston provides. We are overjoyed to share that Preston’s doors will remain open, not just for next year, but for many years to come.”

  Fri, Apr 25, 2025

Swedish gamblers struggle to differentiate legal vs. illegal sites, GRAI calls for public input on social fund and the latest fines from KSA.

Report: Majority of Swedish Gamblers Can’t Differentiate Legal, Illegal Sites

Spelinspektionen, the Swedish regulator, has released a report that finds a majority of gamblers do not know which products are licensed versus unlicensed in the market.

Of those questioned in the survey by Spelinspektionen, 47 percent said they also didn’t know if there was an advantage in playing on licensed sites.

Swedish horseracing operator ATG said in a Q4 report on illegal gambling that online channelization in Sweden was between 69 percent and 82 percent across the entire market.

Ireland’s GRAI calls for industry input on Social Impact Fund

The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) has issued a call for input from stakeholders and individuals impacted by gambling harms to help shape its Social Impact Fund.

The regulator is looking to hear from people who have lived experience of gambling harm or addiction. GRAI also wants to engage with service providers and non-governmental organizations that work with vulnerable groups.

The call for input from impacted organizations and individuals opened on April 14 and will close May 15.

Ireland’s nascent Social Impact Fund was established under the Gambling Regulation Act 2024, which Ireland’s Parliament approved in October.

Starscream Latest to Face Regulatory Action in the Netherlands

The Dutch gambling regulator Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) has ordered that Starscream stop all operations in the market.

KSA said that Starscream was operating in the country without the correct license and had been illegally targeting Dutch players.

If Startscream does not cease its operations in the Netherlands, it risks facing a penalty payment of up to €840,000 ($956,234).

“The Netherlands has a regulated gambling market to better protect players,” KSA said. “We are therefore taking tough action against illegal offers. With a penalty payment, illegal offers are often quickly stopped. Providers may also be fined for the period during which the illegal offer was available.”

KSA Issues Penalty to Unlicensed Esports Operator Gamusoft

The Dutch gambling regulator Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) has issued a weekly penalty payment order against the videogame-focused gambling operator Gamusoft.

KSA said the company’s csgofast.com website, which allows users to wager on esports title Counter Strike: Global Offensive, was operating illegally in the market.

As such, KSA ordered Gamusoft to immediately cease operations in the country. If it does not comply, Gamusoft will face a penalty payment of €280,000 ($322,840) a week, up to a maximum of €840,000.

KSA said the operator’s site had been running in the Netherlands illegally, as Gamusoft does not hold a local gambling license and had taken no measure to prevent Dutch users from creating accounts.

By Matt Rybaltowski   Fri, Apr 25, 2025

Free bets under fire in Colorado, SC House holds sports betting hearing and UN cites concerns over links between gambling and organized crime.

Colorado Bill Seeks to Eliminate Free Bets Deduction

Over the last few months, a plethora of states have floated proposed legislation that aims to raise the tax rate on operator revenues from sports wagering.

Now, as the NBA playoffs kick into high gear, a Colorado bill contains a new twist. The bill, HB 25-311, seeks to eliminate a deduction used by commercial sportsbooks to lower their tax liability. In calculating net sports betting proceeds, operators have the ability to deduct all payments to players, all federal excise taxes and a small percentage of free wagers made by customers. Sponsored by Senator Dylan Roberts and two members of the Colorado House, the bill would remove the deduction for all free bets.

Under Colorado law, operators are allowed to deduct up to 2 percent of free bets in fiscal year 2025-26. The figure is set to drop to 1.75 percent for the following fiscal year. But if the bill is signed into law, the deduction will be removed by Sept. 1, 2025.

According to a fiscal note attached to the bill, the proposed change would result in an additional $11.8 million in revenue to the state’s sports betting fund for FY 2025-26. The authors caution that operators may respond by offering fewer free wagers. As a result, the state projects additional revenues of $10.6 million for FY 2026-27.

A portion of sports betting revenues are allocated to the state’s Water Plan Implementation Cash Fund. As of April 24, the Nuggets had odds of +6500 to win the NBA Championship. The Avalanche, another tenant of Ball Arena, have odds of +1100 to capture the Stanley Cup.

South Carolina House Committee Hears Arguments on Sports Betting

A committee in the South Carolina House of Representatives convened for nearly two hours April 22 for a hearing on sports betting, but adjourned without taking a vote.

The House Ways and Means Revenue Policy Subcommittee discussed three gambling-related bills, including H. 3625, otherwise known as the South Carolina Sports Wagering Act. Under the bill, operators would be subject to a 12.5 percent privilege tax on sports betting revenues. The tax would bring as much as $31.3 million in revenue to the state in fiscal year 2025-26, according to a statement of fiscal impact from the South Carolina Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Office.

A group of religious organizations, including the South Carolina Baptist Convention and the Roman Catholic Diocese of Charleston, submitted a joint letter to the South Carolina General Assembly. In light of elevated problem gambling trends nationwide, the groups urged lawmakers to oppose all three bills. The authors cited a study from UCLA which estimated that the legalization of sports betting has increased a household’s probability of declaring bankruptcy by a range of 25 to 30 percent.

While sports betting continues to flourish in Tennessee, it has largely failed to gain traction in the southeast and Gulf Coast regions. Already this year, a last-ditch effort to legalize sports betting failed yet again in Georgia, while a Mississippi bill on mobile sports wagering died in committee. Sports betting is available on a limited basis in Mississippi in casinos only. Legal sports wagering remains a longshot in Alabama.

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster plans to veto any bills that attempt to legalize sports wagering throughout the state.

UN Office Concerned on Criminal Nexus with Online Gaming

Building on findings from an extensive investigative process over the last several years, a new report from a United Nations office shed additional light on the links between online gaming and transnational organized crime.

An 81-page report from the U.N. Office on Drugs and Crime describes the growing influence of illegal syndicates in southeast Asia and the connection with the world of online gaming. Supported by underground banking and cryptocurrency laundering, the enterprises have been responsible for billions of dollars in financial losses in recent years, according to the UNODC. In particular, the office called attention to the work of white-label online gambling websites, which employ intricate methods to obscure funds through fake tournaments, in-game transfers and illegal wagers, among other techniques.

In the U.S. alone, law enforcement attributed more than $5.6 billion in financial losses to crypto schemes in 2023. The amount is dwarfed by an estimated $37 billion in east and southeast Asia losses, according to the report. At present, two illegal bookmakers are awaiting sentencing in a sweeping investigation into the illicit southern California sports betting market. One defendant, pro poker player Damien Leforbes, used various cryptocurrency wallets to receive proceeds from his business and to pay bettors whom he owed money, according to a federal complaint.

Last December, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee cited the work of the UNODC during a closely watched federal hearing on sports betting on Capitol Hill. Blackburn and Nevada Senator Catherine Cortez-Masto have called on the Justice Department to examine the connection between organized crime and illegal sports betting ahead of next year’s World Cup. A UNODC study found that in 2014, criminal syndicates laundered approximately $140 billion through illegal and unregulated sport betting. The amount has likely grown since, the senators wrote in a letter to the Office of the Attorney General.

Moving forward, the UNODC recommends regulatory enhancements that address money laundering, virtual assets and online gaming oversight, with periodic review and reforms. The office also calls for stronger international collaboration and oversight mechanisms of investment activities in high-risk areas such as special economic zones.

By Jess Marquez   Fri, Apr 25, 2025

WarHorse Omaha expands, Oklahoma’s UKB receives gaming license and South Carolina casino causes rifts in Catawba leadership.

WarHorse Omaha Debuts New Expansion

WarHorse Casino in Omaha opened its latest expansion April 22, per Nebraska Public Media. The expansion includes 400 slots, two dining options and a connection from the parking garage to the casino, as well as 130 additional jobs.

Just opened last August, the casino is a partnership between the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska and the Nebraska Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association. According to state figures, WarHorse Omaha has generated $3.8 million in tax revenue so far in 2025.

“The theory is, is we get these open, we start having some success, and we put more and more money back into our community, building homes, creating education, jobs, all of those opportunities,” WarHorse Gaming CEO Lance Morgan told NPM. “You know, we’re already known for doing that in our community, but I think that that’s going to be community development on steroids when these are really going and functioning at full speed.”

Oklahoma Tribe Approved for Gaming License

The United Keetoowah Band (UKB) of Oklahoma received approval for a gaming license from the National Indian Gaming Commission earlier this month, settling a years-long dispute between the UKB and the much larger Cherokee Nation over land rights. The UKB had operated a casino in Tahlequah for years before the Cherokees sued in 2013, forcing the UKB to cease operations.

However, the federal government earlier this year ruled that both tribes have equal rights to the Oklahoma Cherokee Reservation, laying the groundwork for the NIGC approval.

“While additional steps remain before UKB gaming operations resume, the NIGC’s decision affirms what decades of federal law have made clear: Indian Tribes have the right to regulate and conduct gaming on their lands,” UKB Chief Jeff Wacoche told News on 6.

Report: Catawbas Divided on SC Casino Efforts

The Catawba Nation is South Carolina’s only federally recognized tribe, but so far it has not been able to develop and operate a casino in the state. Instead, the Catawbas partnered with developer Wallace Cheves to open the Two Kings casino in neighboring North Carolina. But the relationship between them has become increasingly strained, to the extent that Cheves is now proposing his own South Carolina casino project in Santee and is seeking to pass legislation to make that a reality.

In response, Catawba Chief Brian Harris has lobbied against the casino and bill, arguing that his tribe should have first gaming rights in the state. “We have an inherent right to game in our home state before anyone else,” he recently said in testimony to the state House, per FITSNews.

However, the outlet in its report spoke with other tribal members who disagree with Harris and allege that his attack of the Santee project is simply a vendetta against Cheves. “They’re just trying to stop him at any turn – not do anything themselves,” said Jason Harris, former assistant chief. “If they want it that bad, why hasn’t the chief been working on it?”

“I don’t really object to the casino going in South Carolina – but as long as Brian’s in office I think me and a vast majority of tribal citizens are in fear of how Brian is going to handle it,” added Dwayne Rogers, another former council member. “Obviously we want success, we want to flourish – but it worries me about the leadership and how they may go about doing it. Is it for the tribe? Or is it for personal gain?”

  Fri, Apr 25, 2025

Macau posts flat Q1, Thai casino bill continues to raise questions, 13 Hotel goes up for sale again and more.

Macau Gaming Slump May Be Short-Term

Macau casinos generated gross gaming revenue (GGR) of MOP57.65 billion (US$7.21 billion) in the first quarter of 2025, up 0.86 percent year-on-year, reports the city’s Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau. 

In comments before the Legislative Assembly earlier this month, Macau Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai acknowledged that at this pace, annual GGR could fall short of the government target (MOP240 billion) for the year. That would result in a budget deficit.

But the industry could see a lift from a boost in the Chinese economy. According to China Daily, China’s GDP grew 5.4 percent year-on-year for Q1, “positioning the country to better weather global uncertainties” and increasing consumer confidence.

CSLA analysts Jeffrey Kiang and Leo Pan say gaming industry growth in 2025 will be minimal, but “should accelerate in 2026” as property prices fall. That would be “a key driver for consumer confidence in China.”

Seaport Research analyst Vitaly Umansky added that growth “has hit a wall” in Macau. But he too foresees an improvement in the second half of the year.

Thailand Casino Bill at a Crossroads

Thailand’s plan to develop entertainment complexes with gaming, which stalled on its way to Parliament, is going nowhere fast.

The bill would legalize five casino resorts in locations around the country. It was originally slated for review during the legislative session that ended April 9. But the Pheu Thai-led government delayed the review until July at the earliest following stiff opposition from the public, anti-gambling organizations and Pheu That’s own coalition partner, the Bhumjaithai Party.

Meanwhile, Senator Sorachat Wichaya Suwanphrom has proposed a Senate panel to conduct its own review of the proposal. It should take about 180 days to file a report, a source told the Bangkok Post, delaying the bill’s progress until next year and approvals to 2027.

Analysts say entertainment complexes in Chonburi, Chiang Mai, Phuket and Bangkok could generate THB278 billion (US$8.4 billion) per year, making Thailand the third most profitable gaming jurisdiction after Macau and Las Vegas.

But critics worry about the social costs, including higher risks of gambling addiction, money laundering and related crimes. Some complain that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who supports the bill, is taking her orders from her father, former PM Thaksin Shinawatra, who advocates casinos as well as online gambling.

Paetongtarn recently defended the bill and insisted it is not all about gambling.

“Entertainment complex does not mean casino,” she said in comments reported by The Thaiger. “Only 10 percent of the total area will be dedicated to this purpose. … Each complex will feature several hotels and restaurants, creating jobs for thousands of people. “his will help boost the local economy.”

Macau’s 13 Hotel Up for Sale Again

The 13 Hotel in Macau, known for its crimson hotel tower and a fleet of matching Rolls Royces, is for sale in the city’s Cotai Strip resort district. The property, which operated for two years between 2018 and 2020, reopened in 2024 after the Macau Government Tourism Office renewed its hotel license.

The 13 comes with a price tag of HK$2.4 billion (US$309 million). “It’s a super-luxury hotel,” said Mark Wong of Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL), a consultancy that represents the seller. “The hotel market is recovering after the Covid-19 pandemic and tourists are coming back quickly.”

Developed by onetime Merrill Lynch investment banker Stephen Hung, the property offers a level of opulence that recalls Versailles (Hung’s company once was known as Louis XIII Holdings). But The 13 has faced multiple bankruptcies. Former majority investor South Shore Holdings Ltd. went belly-up in 2021 and was delisted from the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. The 13 Hotel Management Ltd. filed for bankruptcy in 2023 and New Concordia Hotel Ltd., which owns the rights to the project site, was liquidated the same year.

The 13 itself was declared officially bankrupt in February 2023 and sold off its collection of 30 red Rolls Royce Phantoms to help pay down debt. It has since been taken over by its creditor, Bank of Communications Macau.

Sri Lanka Sets Up Gambling Regulator

The Sri Lanka Cabinet has approved a draft bill that will set up a Gambling Regularization Authority. That bill will now go to parliament for its review.

According to the Daily Financial Times, Cabinet spokesman and minister Nalinda Jayatissa said the proposed authority will be “the sole national regulator with a broad mandate,” overseeing online, land-based and ship-based gambling, as well as sports betting.

In October 2024, Melco Resorts & Entertainment opened Phase 1 of a new $1.2 billion integrated resort, City of Dreams Sri Lanka in Colombo. In April, Melco announced that the government had granted it a 20-year gaming license. Phase 2 of development will add a casino and additional non-gaming amenities.

Thailand Arrests 19 in Online Gaming Racket

Thailand’s Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau has uncovered six illegal online gambling websites, arrested 19 suspects and issued warrants for a dozen more.

According to Nation Thailand, officials said at an April 19 press conference that the network has processed more than THB3.2 billion ($95.95 million) in receipts so far in 2025.

The sites under investigation—including Fun586, Next88bet, Allmewin and others—laundered the money through gold acquisitions funneled through corporate bank accounts. They misrepresented themselves as paper production or agricultural firms.

By Kyle Goldsmith   Fri, Apr 25, 2025

All about Brazil: poll indicates land-based casino support, ad restrictions in play, expanded betting menus and more.

Survey Finds 60 Percent of Brazilians in Favor of Land-Based Gambling

The DataSenado Research Institute April 22 released a new survey which shows 60 percent of the respondents in Brazil support the legalization of land-based gambling. DataSenado operates under the Transparency Secretariat of the Federal Senate.

PL 2,234/2022 to legalize land-based gambling forms such as casinos, bingo and jogo do bicho was approved by the Justice and Citizenship Committee last year, and the Senate vote to give the final green light is expected soon.

Of those surveyed by DataSenado, 60 percent expressed support for the regulation and oversight of land-based gambling. In contrast, 34 percent opposed the proposals, and the remaining 6 percent either were unsure or chose not to respond.

Brazil Sports Commission Debates Projects to Restrict Gambling Ads

The Brazil Sports Commission (CEsp) has this week debated two proposals that aim to restrict gambling advertising in the country.

CEsp discussed PL 2,985/2023, which would introduce a ban on gambling ads across all channels, as well as PL 3,405/2023, which centers on the prohibition of ads involving athletes and celebrities.

Fernando Vieira, CEO of the Brazilian Institute of Responsible Gaming, warned advertising plays an important role in helping bettors to understand what sites are legal.

“Informing and educating is protecting,” Vieira told the hearing in quotes shared by Games Magazine Brazil. “And only with this path of transparency will we be able to guarantee the full benefits of regulation.”

Police Chief Warns CPI of Influencers Driving Illegal Gambling

The police chief of Alagoas state in Brazil has informed the Parliamentary Inquiry Commission (CPI) on betting that social media influencers are deceiving gamblers.

On April 22, Lucimério Barros Campos appeared before the Brazil betting CPI after leading an investigation known as “Operation Game Over,” which aimed to uncover malicious activity by online influencers involved in illegal betting.

Lucimério explained to the CPI how influencers receive bets from players, before passing the bets onto illegal operators. As influencers aren’t considered financial institutions, their assets cannot be frozen, allowing the transactions to go through without being blocked.

Lucimério said additional legislation is necessary in order to prevent influencers promising bettors large prizes, which aren’t actually possible to win.

Chilean Soccer Legend Vidal Launches New Betting Platform

Chilean soccer star Arturo Vidal has launched a new online sports betting and casino site named “Play with the King.”

Vidal, who has made 146 appearances for Chile’s national team, the fourth-most ever, announced the platform’s launch on Instagram.

Vidal will hold a raffle for users who register for “Play with the King,” including prizes such as cash.

The launch of the new site comes after the Chilean Public Prosecutor’s Office announced it wouldn’t pursue a lawsuit against online gambling houses in the country, which are currently illegal.

Brazil Sports Ministry Announces Expanded Legal Bet Menu

The Ministry of Sports in Brazil has released a new ordinance adding to the list of sports on which Brazilians can legally bet.

The Ministry of Sports published Ordinance No. 36 in the Official Gazette of the Union on April 23, outlining fixed-odds bets can now be placed on sports such as cricket, mixed martial arts and American football.

Additionally, Brazilians can now bet on esports events that have obtained a licence or authorisation from either the developer of the video games, or the holder of intellectual property rights for esports tournaments.

The developers of the games are banned from restricting betting to one single operator, while betting companies are also prohibited from demanding exclusivity.

By Frank Legato   Fri, Apr 25, 2025

The latest announcements from Novomatic, IGT, BetComply and more.

Novomatic Partners with Harvest Gaming in Asia

Novomatic AG announced a new strategic distribution partnership with Singapore-based Harvest Gaming, an important step in Novomatic’s strategy of expanding its presence across Asia.

Under the new agreement, Harvest Gaming will represent Novomatic’s leading portfolio of land-based gaming solutions in Singapore, Malaysia and Vietnam. With its in-depth market knowledge, excellent industry relations, and a customer-focused approach, Harvest Gaming is ideally positioned to support Novomatic’s growth and deliver tailored solutions to local operators.

The new partnership further expands Novomatic’s global distribution network and enhances the Group’s ability to meet the specific needs of customers in one of the most dynamic regions of the international gaming industry.

IGT Installs PeakBarTop at Gran Madrid

International Game Technology PLC announced that it recently installed its award-winning PeakBarTop cabinet with legendary Game King multi-game content at the Knockout sports bar at Gran Madrid | Casino Torrelodones in Madrid, Spain.

This PeakBarTop installment allows players to enjoy their favorite IGT video poker, slots, blackjack and keno games in a Las Vegas-inspired bar setting for the first time in Spain.

IGT’s PeakBarTop cabinet features an ergonomic design with a 23-inch curved, full-HD display, a front-mounted ticket printer, and an embedded card reader. The PeakBarTop cabinet also includes a range of technologically advanced features such as enhanced lighting and sound, a USB mobile device charging port, a play-level indicator for service staff, and embedded Bluetooth technology that enables operators to integrate with IGT’s cashless gaming systems technology seamlessly.

BMM Expands to UAE

BMM Testlabs announced its official approval to test gaming products for the United Arab Emirates’ licensed lottery and commercial gaming program.

This approval comes from the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), which holds exclusive jurisdiction to regulate, license and supervise all commercial gaming activities and facilities, including lottery, internet gaming, sports wagering and land-based gaming facilities. BMM’s certification falls under the “Independent Testing Laboratories” category.

BMM Testlabs brings 44 years of global leadership in product compliance across regulated markets and is trusted by games, systems, and lottery manufacturers, suppliers, developers, and regulators worldwide.

BetComply Partners with Binderr

BetComply, the iGaming industry’s most trusted technical and regulatory compliance firm, has entered a strategic partnership with Binderr, described by BetComply as “the platform and marketplace bringing onboarding into the future.”

BetComply partners will enjoy effortless onboarding and due diligence via Binderr’s best-in-class platform, as well as access to an extensive marketplace of financial, legal and corporate services.

Binderr is co-founded by Jacob Appel and Zak Rose, who’ve previously enjoyed success across a number of tech start-ups, including Time to Eat, Bolt and Bolt Food.

Tipico Achieves ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Certification

Tipico, the leading sports betting and online gaming provider in Germany, has successfully attained the highly regarded ISO 14001:2015 certification for its Environmental Management System (EMS).

This significant achievement underscores Tipico’s commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable business practices across its offices in Germany and Malta.

The ISO 14001 has been the global benchmark for effective environmental management systems since its introduction in 1996. It provides organizations with a framework to manage environmental responsibilities systematically, emphasizing continuous improvement, regulatory compliance, and the achievement of measurable sustainability objectives.

AGS Appoints Arthur Rotziokos and Richard Orozco to Lead International Growth Efforts

Gaming supplier AGS announced two key appointments that will significantly strengthen its international operations. Arthur Rotziokos has been appointed as the senior director of product management-Asia-Pacific (APAC), and Richard Orozco has assumed the role of senior director of product management-international.

Both report to Rob Ziems, AGS’ chief business and legal officer, who oversees international business.

Rotziokos, based in Sydney, Australia, will lead AGS’ entry into the rapidly expanding APAC market. With over three decades of experience in the gaming industry, including his most recent role as vice president of research & development at Light & Wonder, Rotziokos is well-positioned to drive AGS’ strategic expansion across the region. His career spans roles at leading companies such as Ainsworth Game Technology and IGT, where he developed strong industry relationships and pioneered game development initiatives that led to business growth in global markets.

Orozco, an experienced leader in international product management, will oversee AGS’ global product strategies, focusing on regions such as Latin America and Europe. Orozco joins AGS with extensive experience in managing product portfolios across international markets, including his most recent role as vice president of product strategy at Ainsworth Game Technology. In his new role, he will work to drive market performance, optimize product life cycles, and strengthen AGS’ market share in key international territories.

By Frank Fantini   Fri, Apr 25, 2025

So far in the early stages of first-quarter earnings season, gaming companies are acting cautiously as economic and political uncertainty abound.

It’s early in the first-quarter earnings report season with only three gaming operators having reported, but there may already be a theme: caution.

In my last column, I suggested this will be an important earnings season for what companies say about operating in an environment where the president’s policies change minute to minute, leading to both worries about a recession and uncertainty about how to—or even whether to—invest in growth.

I suggested that the sell-side analysts press management on conference calls to justify and explain and not give glib responses to important questions about how their companies are faring and what they are doing during this uncertainty.

Well, it appears the companies are doing more than talking. They are acting.

So far, all three of the reporting operators are taking very conservative actions:

• Las Vegas Sands (LVS) is ending its pursuit of a $4 billion casino near New York City. And, while the company blames uncertainty over whether New York will legalize iGaming, it would not be surprising if other factors enter in to the decision, like dealing with a selection process that seems to give considerable influence to community casino opponents and the state’s unclear direction in how it will proceed with picking a licensee.

Whatever the reasons, LVS is nixing a big capital project in the U.S. while it continues to invest in Singapore and remains committed to Macau.

• Churchill Downs (CHDN) is deferring a $900 million expansion at its flagship and namesake racetrack, while moving ahead with a $30 million project set to open by next year’s Kentucky Derby.

CEO Bill Carstanjen minced no words in giving his reasons for the pause. “A lot has changed in the world in the last nine weeks,” he said, citing the uncertainty of government policies, including tariffs, which affect costs of construction supplies. CHDN will carefully evaluate factors as it decides when to move forward, he said.

The stock crashed after CHDN’s earnings report. Given its high valuation going into the announcements, fleeing investors may be creating a buying opportunity for what is arguably America’s best gaming growth company.

• Monarch Casino (MCRI) has not been buying back shares of stock and maintains its conservative dividend. That means the debt-free company is piling up even more cash than before. Jefferies analyst David Katz projects that MCRI now will have $327 million in cash by the end of next year. That’s more than $17 a share. That means cash will amount to almost one-quarter of the stock’s current price.

And, while MCRI certainly can find uses for that mountain of money – resume share repurchases, pay a special dividend, make an acquisition – for now it is definitely defensive.

Meanwhile, one company has announced a new project. Penn Entertainment (PENN) says it will convert its Council Bluffs, Iowa, riverboat to a land-based casino.

That is a very conservative investment, yet the kind that has proven everywhere to be a money maker.  It may be considered a defensive move in a market that is seeing increased competition from neighboring Nebraska. It also is a big turn away from the kinds of risky investments PENN has made with its online ventures.

We’ll see what other companies have to say and do in coming days and weeks, but so far, it’s not damn the torpedoes full speed ahead.

PERSONAL NOTE

Congratulations to Gaming Arts CEO Mike Dreitzer on being appointed as chair of the Nevada Gaming Control Board.

Mike is an earnest, thoughtful person who can be expected to bring strong personal attributes and high character as well as extensive knowledge to what may be the most important regulatory job in the gaming industry.

Good luck, Mike.

By Roger Gros   Fri, Apr 25, 2025

This week we sit down with Kresimir Spajic, CEO of BetFred Sportsbook.

BetFred is one of the smaller sports betting operators that is having a difficult time entering the U.S. market. Kresimir Spajic, a highly experienced sports betting operator, was brought on to evaluate the company’s U.S. status in 2023, and explains what he found. His experience includes time with such companies as Great Canadian Entertainment, Apollo Global Management, Hard Rock International, Rush Street Interactive, Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, Bwin and more. He talks about where the sports betting market is headed in the U.S. and also discusses the possibility of more states entering the iGaming market. He spoke with GGB Publisher Roger Gros at the ICE conference and tradeshow in Barcelona in January.