By Robert Fletcher   Tue, May 13, 2025

Proposals from De Unie discussed wages, holidays, working conditions and other benefits for staff with Holland Casino.

Holland Casino is set to hold further discussions with trade union De Unie after rejecting almost all proposals put forward during the first round of talks.

Representatives from both Holland Casino and De Unie met last week for an initial collective labor agreement (CLA) meeting. Proposals from De Unie covered wages, holidays, working conditions and other benefits for staff.

However, Holland Casino is hesitant to make too many changes due to “material uncertainty” over its financial position. This primarily relates to increases in the gaming tax, which is set to rise to 37.8% of gross gaming revenue from January 2026. This would follow an initial rise to 34.2% in January of this year.

As such, Holland Casino said it is keen on a one-year CLA. However, it indicated it would like wages to rise for employees.

“Holland Casino does want to grant a wage increase of 1% as of January 2026,” De Unie said. “This could be 2.5% if the second increase in gaming tax does not go ahead.”

De Unie Urges Perspective from Holland Casino

In response, De Unie said it is committed to a full wage increase for staff. It said the operator should not allow the burden of potentially higher tax to impact employees.

De Unie said: “If the second tranche of gambling tax goes through, what will be the consequences for purchasing power in the long term, according to Holland Casino? Holland Casino already has very limited room, but what will happen in the upcoming collective labor agreements?

“De Unie wants to see perspective. We want to know Holland Casino’s vision on the short- and long-term regarding wage development for our members. It cannot be that the consequences of the second increase in gambling tax must be coughed up by employees.”

Aside from wages, De Unie called for May 5 – a day on which the Netherlands celebrates the end of the Second World War and the liberation of the country – to become a holiday for workers. It is also seeking clarification on informal care and working from home.

Next Round of Talks Due May 19

Given the lack of progress in the initial talks, De Unie said it expects difficult negotiations in the next round. The two parties are due to meet again on May 19, but De Unie said further negotiation days are already planned for June as an agreement is not yet close.

“De Unie is concerned that if wages do not increase or only increase to a very limited extent, employees will essentially pay for the tax increase. This could send the wrong message to politicians,” De Unie said.

By Robert Fletcher   Tue, May 13, 2025

Some land-based titles from Gaming Arts will also launch online via White Hat Studios.

Gaming content provider White Hat Studios has expanded into the U.S. land-based market via a new partnership with end-to-end technology supplier Gaming Arts.

The distribution agreement will see White Hat Studios content made available to land-based casinos across the U.S. White Hat was previously only active in the U.S. iGaming sector.

Big Catch Bass Fishing will be the first title to roll out at U.S. casinos. White Hat will soon also launch titles such as Bankin’ More Bacon and Kong Even Bigger Bananas with land-based properties.

The new agreement will also strengthen White Hat’s online offering in the country. Some land-based titles from Gaming Arts will also launch online via White Hat Studios.

‘Landmark’ Deal for White Hat and Gaming Arts

White Hat CEO Andy Whitworth said it was a “landmark” moment for the predominantly iGaming supplier.

“Our primary objective is to deliver content that maximizes entertainment for players, whether that is online or in land-based casinos, and we have no doubt our portfolio will elevate the offering of Gaming Arts’ partners,” he said.

“We look forward to introducing White Hat Studios’ hit titles to a whole new audience and showcasing the omnichannel appeal of our games to the wider industry.”

Greg Colella, chief product officer at Gaming Arts, also talked up the omnichannel deal. He said: “White Hat Studios has made a name for itself developing strong-performing games that resonate with players across multiple states. Its rapid rise in iGaming is a testament to the quality of its products.

“This agreement enables Gaming Arts to further strengthen the way in which we supply leading U.S. retail casinos with class-leading content, while simultaneously enhancing the studio’s footprint in the land-based sector. We are also particularly excited to see our top-performing land-based titles launching online.”

By Robert Fletcher   Mon, May 12, 2025

Caesars will continue to be responsible for gaming and non-gaming operations of Windsor Casino.

The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) has determined Caesars Entertainment will continue as the service provider for Windsor Casino.

Caesars and its predecessor companies have partnered with the OLG to operate Windsor Casino since its opening in 1994. The new deal ensures the continuation of this arrangement.

The OLG elected to keep Caesars in place as service provider after a procurement process. It was also noted that this was the final procurement process in the OLG’s land-based gaming modernization initiative.

“We’re thrilled to be selected as service provider for the Windsor Casino by the OLG,” Caesars CEO Tom Reeg said. “Caesars has a long history of managing Windsor. Caesars looks forward to continuing to deliver exceptional guest service and experiences at the property.”

What will Caesars do at Windsor Casino?

Caesars will be responsible for gaming and non-gaming operations of the casino on behalf of the OLG under a 20-year operating deal. The new agreement is expected to begin at some point during 2026.

OLG requires an 18-month restriction on any organizational changes consistent with other gaming bundle modernizations in Ontario. Unionized staff will continue to be governed by the terms of their collective agreement.

Officially named Caesars Windsor Hotel & Casino, the venue is home to a casino featuring over 1,700 slot machines and 85 table games. Visitors can also access a poker room with a total of 14 tables.

Other on-site amenities include a sportsbook, hotel with over 750 rooms, seven bars and lounges, six restaurants and The Colloseum theater.

OLG will, among other things, continue to conduct and manage gaming at the site. It will also require Caesars to uphold the standards of its responsible gambling program.

In addition, OLG will continue to make Municipality Contribution Agreement payments to the city of Windsor. OLG has provided more than CA$131 million (US$94 million) in payments to the city as a gaming host community since 1994.

By Robert Fletcher   Mon, May 12, 2025

Ellis Island will provide fans with various viewing opportunities for the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Ellis Island Casino & Hotel has renewed and expanded its official partnership with Formula 1’s Las Vegas Grand Prix.

The deal will cover the 2025 edition of the race “and beyond,” Las Vegas Grand Prix said. Ellis Island has supported the event since its debut in 2023.

Under the agreement, Ellis Island will be an official venue of the Las Vegas Strip Circuit. This will again include providing fans with optimal viewing venues for the race.

Ellis Island will also have use of the Grand Prix Plaza area for the Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation of Nevada Halloween Bash. The Ellis family has supported the annual event and organization for decades.

‘Exciting’ Viewing Locations at Las Vegas Grand Prix

Emily Prazer, president and CEO of Las Vegas Grand Prix, said of the deal that it will once again provide “exciting” viewing opportunities for Formula 1 fans.

“We are thrilled to be growing our partnership with Ellis Island,” Prazer said. “Over the last two years, we have committed to working with the community and local businesses to ensure they are part of the race week excitement.

“Ellis Island is not only a great partner for us but also offers fans another exciting viewing location along the circuit.”

Gary Ellis, owner of Ellis Island Casino & Hotel, added: “As we enter into this partnership with our neighbors on Koval Lane, we look forward to working with Las Vegas Grand Prix to extend our offerings at Ellis Island during race weekend and beyond.”

More information about Ellis Island’s viewing experiences and hotel packages will be shared in the coming months. The 2025 Las Vegas Grand Prix takes place from November 20-22.

By Jess Marquez   Fri, May 9, 2025

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission has ended its legal battle with Kalshi regarding election betting, the latest signal that prediction markets could be here to stay.

The fight over legal election betting in the U.S. looks to have swung considerably, and perhaps definitively, in favor of prediction markets.

On May 5 the Commodity Futures Trading Commission submitted a motion for voluntary dismissal to end its appeal against Kalshi, the New York-based exchange that has taken the sports betting industry by storm. The case was being heard by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit, and the motion was approved a day later.

As part of the dismissal, Kalshi also “waives any and all claims relating to or arising from litigation of this matter before this court, the district court, or administrative proceedings before the Commission.”

“Election markets are here to stay,” Kalshi CEO Tarek Mansour posted on X. “Prediction markets have been banned, censored, limited and pushed out for decades. This win solidifies their right to exist and thrive.”

The request for dismissal ends the legal arguments between Kalshi and the CFTC. The pair had long fought under the Biden administration but stopped when President Donald Trump took office in January. Kalshi originally self-certified its election contracts in June 2023 and the CFTC disallowed them in September that year.

That kicked off a federal court battle in which the markets were pulled and then ultimately greenlit last October when the appeals court ruled in favor of Kalshi. The platform and others then saw billions of dollars in trading volume on election contracts in the November cycle. At the time, the CFTC vowed to continue its fight, but that course has now been reversed.

In the court’s October ruling, Judge Patricia Millett conceded that the case was “close and difficult.” Ultimately, though, the three-judge panel found that the CFTC had failed to demonstrate how the election contracts would result in public harm, which was part of its argument for disallowing them. This failure was “fatal to the Commission’s stay request,” Millett wrote.

Until this year, the CFTC had staunchly enforced its prohibitions on contracts involving elections or gaming. But Kalshi has so far successfully maintained that prediction markets are financial exchanges with real economic hedging benefits. The platforms allow users to buy and trade contracts tied to event outcomes, much like traditional commodities exchanges but greatly expanded.

The appeals court ruling mixed with a correct prediction of Trump’s landslide victory signaled that the tide could be turning. A week before Trump took office, his son Donald Trump Jr. was named as an adviser to Kalshi. Trump Jr said in an X post that “my family and close friends used the prediction market Kalshi to know we won hours ahead of the fake news media. I immediately knew I had to contribute to their mission.”

On Feb. 12, Trump nominated Brian Quintenz, a Kalshi board member, as the next CFTC chair. Quintenz previously served as a commissioner during Trump’s first term and was outspoken in his support of prediction markets.

When the fight was just centered around election betting, the gaming industry was unmoved. However, when the exchanges began to expand into sports earlier this year, concern skyrocketed.

In response, the CFTC in early February announced its intention to host a roundtable on sports contracts. Few details were ever confirmed publicly, but comments opposing the markets have poured in to the CFTC site. Ultimately, the discussion planned for April 30 was abruptly canceled with no details of if or when it will be rescheduled.

In the meantime, numerous state gaming regulators have issued cease-and-desist orders against the markets, claiming they constitute illegal gambling. Kalshi has countersued in three states thus far – Nevada, New Jersey and Maryland – and has won preliminary injunctions in the first two. These rulings, mixed with the canceled roundtable and CFTC appointments, appear to suggest that sports markets could ultimately be approved, just as election betting now appears to be.

By Jess Marquez   Fri, May 9, 2025

One of the biggest capital investment projects in Reno’s history, which includes a new arena and other amenities for the Grand Sierra Resort, has received approval for critical tax-increment financing.

The Reno Redevelopment Agency, composed of city council members, voted 5-2 May 7 to approve approximately $68 million in tax-increment financing for a new 10,000-seat arena for the Grand Sierra Resort, per the Reno Gazette Journal.

Under the arrangement, the GSR will be reimbursed 90 percent of its property taxes through 2035 to help fund the development, and owner Alex Meruelo has said he will redirect 5 percent of that back to local youth sports initiatives.

The arena will become the new home of the University of Nevada’s men’s basketball team, as well as a minor league hockey franchise that Meruelo owns. The overall project, which was announced in 2023, also includes other amenities like a skating rink, a new parking garage and potentially a new hotel tower down the line.

The request for TIF funds has proved controversial in recent months, as that element was not disclosed at the time of the original announcement. However, Meruelo’s team has since clarified that the university would not be obligated to contribute funds, rather than the city.

A coalition of local casinos banded together to oppose the financing, as they argued that those programs are for blighted areas only. That said, the casinos did not oppose the GSR being added to a redevelopment zone in the early 2000s, which is what made it eligible to receive such funds.

“We don’t have a lot of economic development tools … so in order to make things work, we have to do private-public partnerships,” Reno Mayor Hilary Schieve said, per the RGJ. “With this TIF plan, someone has to be willing to make the investment and I haven’t seen a lot of that yet. I want to send a message to the outside world that Reno is doing something.”

By Jess Marquez   Fri, May 9, 2025

Cedar Rapids license hangs in the balance again, The Coney gets a boost, MGM announces new renovations and more.

NYC Planning Commission Approves Coney Island Bid

The New York City Planning Commission has voted in favor of The Coney, a massive mixed-use development in Coney Island centered around a casino, hotel, convention center and more, according to News 12 Brooklyn. A consortium of partners on the bid includes Thor Equities, Legends Entertainment, the Chickasaw Nation and Saratoga Casino Holdings.

With the approval, the matter will now proceed to the city council for final review. If constructed, The Coney would span 1.3 million square feet along three city blocks. Even if the city council were to approve the project, it would still not guarantee its development.

The Coney is one of nine remaining bids for three available downstate New York licenses. Bids are due June 27, with licenses to be awarded by the end of the year. Two existing racinos—MGM’s Empire City Casino and Genting’s Resorts World New York City—are considered frontrunners, meaning there may only be one available license for the remaining bidders.

MGM Announces Renovations for Aria, Cosmopolitan, Hints Potential Springfield Sale

On its first-quarter earnings call April 30, MGM Resorts CEO Bill Hornbuckle announced that the company will renovate rooms at the Aria and Cosmopolitan. The Aria renovations will take place sometime in 2026 and the Cosmo will take place in 2027, per the Las Vegas Review-Journal. No other details were given.

MGM is currently undergoing $300 million worth of renovations at MGM Grand, which are set to be completed by year’s end. Aria, which opened in 2009, boasts 4,000 rooms, while the Cosmo, opened in 2010, boasts 3,000.

Also on the call, Hornbuckle seemed to hint at a potential sale of either MGM Springfield in Massachusetts or Northfield Park in Ohio, which have been rumored for several months.

“Northfield Park and Springfield are ongoing discussions, so those are assets we’ve been talking about for a while,” he said.

Anti-Casino Candidates Elected in Irving

Efforts by Las Vegas Sands to eventually develop a casino on the site of the former Dallas Stadium in Irving, Texas were potentially dealt another blow this week when two vocal opponents of the project won their elections and a third was sent to a runoff.

Per the Dallas Express, incumbent John Bloch was reelected and newcomer Adam Muller won his race. Sergio Porres, who has also voiced opposition to the effort, will head to a runoff with David Pfaff after the two of them garnered 47 percent and 45 percent of votes, respectively.

LVS earlier this year secured initial rezoning approval for the site but rising public opposition to the casino  caused the company to remove the casino element from the proposal. The city council ultimately approved the revised plan and left the door open for a future casino. LVS has lobbied heavily for legalizing casinos in Texas but came up short again this year, meaning 2027 would be the next opportunity.

Rivers Casino Portsmouth to Build New Hotel

Mayor Shannon Glover of Portsmouth, Virginia announced during his State of the City address at Rivers Casino May 2 that parent company Rush Street Gaming will build a $65 million, 106-room hotel at the site. It is set to begin construction this summer and open in early 2027, according to WTKR. To be called The Landing Hotel Portsmouth, the property will have 32 suites and two “super suites.”

“We’re talking rooms for concerts, conferences, weddings, getaways, reunions,” Glover told the crowd, per WTKR. “And a reason for visitors to stay longer, spend more, and see everything our city has to offer. Now that’s what I call a ‘Jackpot’!”

AGEM Index Bounces Back in April

The AGEM Index, a stock index of 12 gaming suppliers from around the world, grew 7.8 percent month-over-month and 57 percent year-over-year. In March, all 12 companies had reported declines as markets flip-flopped on news of on-again, off-again U.S. tariffs. In April, seven of the 12 saw increases, led by Konami, which reported a 15 percent gain from the previous month.

By Jess Marquez   Fri, May 9, 2025

Veikkaus prepares for a competitive Finnish market, France sees gambling growth in 2024, Allwyn faces potential penalties in the U.K. and more.

‘Veikkaus Won’t Fail,’ Says EVP, as Monopoly Prepares to Compete in Finland

Finland’s gambling monopoly Veikkaus is overhauling its technology and poaching industry talent, as it prepares to compete in an open market for the first time.

Jarkko Nordlund, EVP for iCasino and sports betting at Veikkaus, spoke to iGB and stated that he is determined to prove Veikkaus’ doubters wrong.

Finland’s online market will open to private competitors in January 2027 and the legacy monopoly operator is expecting to secure a leading position when that occurs.

“We have not really activated [our technology and product capabilities], but the competition is fierce, and when [the market] opens we must be very competitive. Our aim is to challenge the mentality of our current position,” Nordlund noted.

France’s Gambling Sector Grows in 2024, but Tax Hike Looms

France’s gambling sector returned to growth in 2024, with higher participation among younger bettors and women. However, incoming taxes could negate future gains.

France’s gambling sector shows growth indicators as younger players have entered the market and female participation in sports betting has risen, according to 2024 player activity and revenue data from the l’Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ).

In 2024 active player accounts increased 11 percent year-on-year to 5.7 million. ANJ said that trend was seen across a number of verticals, with player accounts in sports betting up 13 percent, poker up 11 percent and horse racing receiving a 4 percent bump.

In terms of revenue, overall GGR for 2024 hit €14 billion ($15.8 billion), up 4.7 percent year-on-year.

Kindred Subsidiary Handed $1 Million Fine in Sweden

Swedish regulator Spelinspektionen has fined Kindred’s Spooniker SEK10 million ($1 million) and issued a warning to the group for failing to amend its systems after a 2022 review flagged AML failings.

The Kindred subsidiary Spooniker holds commercial online gaming and betting licences in Sweden to operate seven websites, including unibet.se, bingo.se, ottocasino.se and mariabingo.se.

Spelinspektionen had originally found in November 2022 that Spooniker had “shortcomings” within its money laundering and terrorist financing mitigation processes. It was fined SEK10.9 million ($1.1 million) at the time.

Gambling Commission Considers Action Against Allwyn Over Lottery Delays

The U.K. Gambling Commission is reportedly weighing taking regulatory action against Allwyn over its failure to deliver on promises made during its successful bid for the fourth National Lottery licence.

The commission is concerned that Allwyn has not met certain contractual milestones since securing the licence. Czech-headquartered Allwyn assumed control of the U.K. National Lottery in February last year.

Areas of concern to the regulator are said to include delays to digital upgrades. Allwyn is also said to have pledged to reduce ticket prices for the main National Lottery draw from £2 to £1, but this is yet to take place.

Online Slots Drive U.K. Q1 Online GGY, Retail Decline Mirrors Operator Reporting

U.K. online slot gross gambling yield (GGY) reached £689 million in Q1, while the Gambling Commission also reported real event betting growth.

The commission has reported a 7 percent year-on-year increase in online GGY for the first quarter, helped by double-digital growth for online slots.

Data from the commission, released May 7, placed GGY at £1.45 billion ($1.93 billion) for the three months to March 31. This beat £1.34 billion in the same period last year but fell 5.8 percent short of £1.54 billion in Q4.

The rise in GGY was accompanied by a 5 percent increase in the total number of bets and spins to 25.2 billion. In addition, the number of average monthly active accounts was 2 percent higher at 13.5 million.

By Matt Rybaltowski   Fri, May 9, 2025

Q1 happenings from Flutter, Penn and BetMGM.

Flutter Posts Strong Q1 in US; CEO Jackson Hints at Prediction Market Expansion

Global betting giant Flutter Entertainment lauded continued success in the U.S. on May 7 as it reported first-quarter group revenue of $3.66 billion, up 8 percent versus the prior year. Adjusted EBITDA of $616 million and net income of $335 million were also YoY increases of 20 percent and 289 percent, respectively.

Other gains included an 8 percent jump in average monthly players (14,880) and a 51 percent increase in adjusted earnings per share from $1.05 to $1.59. Cash on hand stayed flat at $1.5 billion with net debt of $5.3 billion. Revenue and EPS were fairly below consensus forecasts of $3.96 billion and $2.05, per Investing.com. The company’s stock was down 1 percent to $242.36 at market close May 7.

Flutter’s U.S. business, led by FanDuel, posted an 18 percent YoY revenue gain to $1.66 billion, alongside $161 million in adjusted EBITDA, a 5x increase over last year. Conversely, international revenue was just under $2 billion, up 1 percent, with a 1 percent decrease in adjusted EBITDA to $518 million. The company noted that those figures jump to +3 percent and +2 percent, respectively, when calculated on a constant currency basis.

“I am pleased with the performance of the business during the first quarter, with the scaling of our US business driving a step change in the earnings profile of the group,” Flutter CEO Peter Jackson said in a release.

Jackson was expansive in his commentary on prediction markets, perhaps the most pressing topic in gaming currently. He noted Flutter already owns the betting exchange platform Betfair and seemed to indicate that Flutter would rather join them than fight them.

“We’re interested in the potential opportunity, we have brought some of our team who have experience in building these products and services from the Betfair exchange business and put them into FanDuel to help us evaluate the opportunities,” he said. “We’re working through it.”

This is the latest indication that top US bookmakers might look to move into the space. As of now, prediction markets are legal and Kalshi, in particular, has repeatedly defeated legal challenges in recent months. Earlier this year, it was reported that Flutter’s chief U.S. rival DraftKings had applied to register “DraftKings Predict” with the National Futures Association. That application has since been withdrawn.

Penn Bullish on ESPN Bet Amid Proxy Battle

Penn Entertainment CEO Jay Snowden addressed Wall Street analysts May 8 on Penn’s quarterly earnings call during a challenging period for the company.

As Penn approaches the two-year anniversary of its partnership with the Walt Disney Co., ESPN BET’s market share still hovers in the low single digits. The performance is far below Snowden’s expectations when Penn signed a 10-year, $1.5 billion agreement with the broadcast giant two summers ago. Complicating matters, Penn is in the midst of a nasty proxy battle with an activist investor concerning the composition of its board.

“Our interactive segment generated significant top and bottom-line year-over-year growth, highlighting the improved flow-through we are seeing in the business,” Snowden said. “Our digital business continues to evolve, supported by our well-known brand-differentiated IP, a fully owned technology stack and newly recruited, industry-leading talent. We are nearing an inflection point.”

For the three-month period ended 31 March, Penn generated revenue of $1.4 billion, missing analysts’ expectations for revenue of $1.7 billion in the quarter. Penn also reported adjusted EBITDAR of $457 million, leading to a net loss of $0.25 per share.

The company slightly topped analysts’ forecasts of per share quarterly losses of $0.29. Penn reported a net loss of $0.79 per share in the same quarter of 2024.

Ahead of the earnings call, New York-based hedge fund HG Vora Capital Management filed a lawsuit against Penn over the company’s plans to reduce seats on its board of directors. Last month, Penn announced several board changes, including the nomination of Johnny Hartnett and Carlos Ruisanchez, both of whom are backed by the fund. Ruisanchez, a former CFO of Pinnacle Entertainment, currently serves as CEO of Sorelle Capital.

Ron Naples, an independent director since 2013, informed the company of plans to retire, while two others decided not to run for reelection. Penn’s announcement reduced the number of available seats from three to two. HG Vora took exception with the proposal, asserting that it was informed previously that three seats would be up for election. The fund had aimed to nominate former Penn CFO William Clifford to the board.

Penn did not address the lawsuit in its prepared remarks and analysts did not raise the subject in a question-and-answer session.

BetMGM Posts Strong Q1, Reiterates Full-Year Guidance

BetMGM withstood challenging macroeconomic headwinds with a strong first quarter, providing one of the largest operators in the U.S. with optimism that it will swing to full-year profitability in 2025.

For the three-month period ended March 31, BetMGM generated net revenue of $443 million, up 34 percent from the previous year’s quarter. It translated to adjusted EBITDA of $22 million, an improvement of more than $150 million from a loss in the first quarter of 2024.

The operator reported gains in the online sports betting and iGaming segments, with increases of 68 percent and 27 percent, respectively. As BetMGM continues to refine its product and pricing models, the operator saw underlying trends that improved over the quarter and prompted it to reiterate guidance for fiscal year 2025.

“The momentum we built in the second half of 2024 continued into the first quarter as we implement our iGaming strategy, enabling us to grow faster than the market and at scale,” said BetMGM CEO Adam Greenblatt in a statement.

Another main takeaway from the call surrounds BetMGM’s strategy of targeting and retaining so-called “high-value” players. Put simply, the operator is laser focused on investing capital on its most valuable customers. The refined approach to player retention is seen in some of the metrics on the quarter.

While active player days are up 20 percent year-over-year, according to BetMGM, handle per active customer is up 37 percent over the same time frame. The refined approach takes into account areas such as promotion strategy and improved segmentation.

BetMGM experienced net revenue growth despite a series of unfavorable sports outcomes during March Madness. Florida, one of the tournament favorites, won the men’s national championship in basketball, while UConn prevailed on the women’s side.

All four No 1 seeds in the men’s tournament advanced to the Final Four for only the second time ever. The unfavorable outcomes provided a $30 million hit to net revenue during the quarter, BetMGM reported.

BetMGM reaffirmed its expectation that FY2025 will be EBITDA positive. In a period described as a reinvestment year, BetMGM ended 2024 with negative EBITDA of $244 million. BetMGM also reiterated FY2025 net revenue guidance in the range of $2.4 billion to $2.5 billion.

On a long-term basis, BetMGM is targeting EBITDA of $500 million-plus per year. The outlook is comparable to the long-term guidance of Caesars Digital, one of BetMGM’s main rivals.

By Jess Marquez   Fri, May 9, 2025

State of California sues DOI over Koi Nation approval, Mashpee Wampanoag gets caught up with Taunton payments, Tulalip expansion nears completion and more.

State of CA Sues Feds Over Koi Nation Casino Approval

The state of California and Gov. Gavin Newsom May 2 filed suit against the Department of Interior over its approval of the Koi Nation casino development outside Windsor. In its suit, the state accuses the DOI of circumventing the two-part determination required for placing land into trust.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta argued that under the two-part framework, both the Secretary of the Interior and the relevant state’s governor must concur that the prospective development would not prove detrimental to the surrounding area.

“(The DOI) did not undertake a two-part determination, or participate in the required intergovernmental consultation, instead the Interior unilaterally took the Shiloh Site into trust under a different provision of federal law — the ‘restored lands’ exception,” Bonta wrote, per the Press Democrat.

Current Secretary Doug Burgum is listed as a defendant in the suit, but the approval came from former secretary Deb Haaland in the final days of the Biden administration, along with several other controversial tribal casino approvals. A total of four local tribes have already filed suits challenging the Koi ruling, in addition to the state suit. Opponents argue that the tribe has no ancestral ties to the land, as their current reservation is about 30 miles away from the casino site.

“We strongly support California Governor Gavin Newsom’s suit challenging the Interior Department’s rushed, illegal decision to rubber stamp the Koi Nation’s proposed casino on our sacred tribal lands,” Greg Sarris, chair of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, said in a statement. “Then-Secretary Haaland’s decision, handed down in the Biden administration’s final days, clearly violated the federal gaming and environmental laws, trampled our sovereign rights, and deprived the governor of his legal right to be consulted and to decide whether to concur with the proposal.”

Mashpee Wampanoag Now Current with Taunton Payments

The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe is now up to date with back payments owed to the city of Taunton, Massachusetts, after the tribe transferred $2.4 million to the city through financing from Genting, per the Taunton Daily Gazette.

Earlier this year, the tribe opened a welcome center in Taunton that features 50 slots, which is the maximum allotted under a March agreement signed by the tribe and the city. The agreement stipulates that the tribe will pay the city a monthly fee of 2 percent of net slot revenue, but only if that revenue reaches a certain threshold.

A larger casino project is in the works, and it appears Genting is the financier given the funds transfer to the city. Genting originally loaned the tribe more than $400 million in 2018 and said in 2019 it would cease lending, but that now appears to be reversed as the permanent casino project becomes more tangible in light of the welcome center expansion.

“We’ve had a great response from the community since we opened our Welcome Center in January, and we have a lot of exciting developments in the works. Our greeters are spending time with residents in and around this great city, and the public continues to be supportive of First Light Casino,” tribal Chairman Brian Weeden said in a statement. “We also have a lot of exciting promotions and events being worked on for this summer, and we look forward to sharing them on our website and over social media very soon.”

Tulalip Expansion on Track for July Opening

A sprawling 70,250-square-foot expansion of Tulalip Resort Casino in Washington is set to open sometime in July, per Indian Gaming. The addition will include more than 400 new slots, a new bar with an outdoor plaza, new entrances and more.

When complete, the property will span more than 270,00 square feet with over 2,600 slots. After the expansion is open, the casino will embark on major renovations that will run through late 2026.

“The scale of this project is representative of our deep commitment to providing a premium experience for our guests far into the future,” said Marci Fryberg, president/COO of Tulalip Gaming Organization, per Indian Gaming. “We are ever mindful of minimizing disruptions and are pleased by the excitement our guests have shown for this project. We know the entire effort will certainly be worth the wait and can’t wait to show off the new space.”

NM Tribal Casinos Sign Systems Deal with Light & Wonder

Light & Wonder announced May 5 that it has finalized a multi-year agreement to provide its iVIEW PRO S casino hardware system at the Pueblo of Pojoaque’s Buffalo Thunder and Cities of Gold casinos in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The new system will be deployed across some 1,400 slots.

“We’re always looking for ways to elevate the guest experience while making our operations more efficient behind the scenes,” Buffalo Thunder Casino Director of Gaming Operations Mitch Bailey said in a release. “This investment with Light & Wonder helps us update our technology and systems and continue to deliver the experiences players expect.”

FireKeepers Opens Poker Room, Themed Slot Zone

The Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi’s FireKeepers Casino Hotel in Battle Creek, Michigan opened a 21-table poker room earlier this month, per PlayMichigan.

“Our new poker room is more than just a new location — it’s a true hub for everything poker,” Director of Table Games John Fell said in a statement. “Whether you’re here for daily games, major tournaments, or just to enjoy the atmosphere, this space delivers the energy and amenities that players expect from a top-tier poker destination.”

Additionally, the casino also opened a new themed slot area with 50 games arranged in themed groups from Light & Wonder, AGS and Konami. The new zone is located next to the event center doors.

“FireKeepers is constantly investing to bring the newest and most popular games to our casino floor and ensure our guests get the best product and best experience,” FireKeepers President of Gaming Operations Steve Senk said in a statement. “The new creative environment for these games adds to the experience.”

By Jess Marquez   Fri, May 9, 2025

Japan expects to resume IR licensing, PAGCOR sees Q1 bump, Golden Week visitation beats expectations and more.

MGM Exec: Japan to Resume IR License Bidding

The Japan Casino Regulatory Commission, which awarded only one of three available casino resort licenses in 2023, will reportedly reopen the application process in the coming year.

Speaking April 7 at G2E Asia, MGM President of Global Development Ed Bowers said the central government is “actively working” on a second round of bidding for integrated resorts with gaming, with a goal of licensing two more by December 2027.

Japan first approved legal casino complexes in 2018. At the time, analysts projected the market could generate stratospheric revenues, up to $40 billion yearly. But Covid-19 sent potential investors into survival mode, and interest in the market withered. In 2023, the government awarded just one of three licenses to MGM Resorts and its Japanese partner, Orix Corp.

Analyst Howard Jay Klein on the financial news website Seeking Alpha called the $8.9 billion MGM Osaka the “first true mega ‘city within a city’ property … an answer to the growing incursion of online betting.”

The sprawling property on 120 acres will have three hotels; meeting and convention space; a shopping mall and 3,000-seat theater; and more than 14 restaurants. The casino will comprise just 3 percent of gross area, but in a complex this size, that’s big enough for 6,400 slot machines and 470 table games. MGM will retain its lock on the market for at least five years after opening, Klein observed. “Osaka’s first mover position will be pure gold.”

Melco Posts ‘Solid Results’ for Q1

On an earnings call with analysts on May 8, Melco Resorts & Entertainment Chairman and CEO Lawrence  Ho touted “a solid set of results for the first quarter that demonstrates our strengths and our growth prospects.”

Melco operates integrated resorts in Macau, Manila and Cyprus, and is preparing to open its Sri Lanka casino later this year.

Melco’s market share in Macau grew from 14.7 percent in Q4 2024 to 15.7 percent in Q1 2025, “and remained stable at this level in April,” Ho said. Property EBITDA grew 32 percent quarter-over-quarter. Mass drop grew throughout the quarter, reaching record highs at both City of Dreams and Studio City. That momentum continued into April and Golden Week, the Chinese national holiday celebrated May 1-5.

“We’re firing on all cylinders in Macau,” said Ho.

City of Dreams Manila felt the impact of increased competition in that market, he continued. Melco plans to offload the IR, located in the Philippines Entertainment City casino zone. The move would free up capital for a Thailand bid. “Potential buyers are signing NDAs,” Ho said. “We’ll come back when there’s something to announce.”

Meanwhile, City of Dreams Mediterranean in Cyprus “achieved 10 percent year-over-year growth in property EBITDA” for Q1, despite the impact on tourism from the Ukraine and Israel-Hamas conflicts. “We’re optimistic about the results that Cyprus can deliver over the rest of the year,” said Ho.

Last but not least, preparations continue for the opening of the casino at City of Dreams Sri Lanka. Doors are expected to open in the third quarter.

PAGCOR Sees 11 Percent Bump in First Quarter

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. posted revenue of PHP28 billion ($502.9 million) for the first quarter of 2025, up 11.2 percent year on year. That exceeds the government target of PH26.88 billion by 4.45 percent.

Fifty-six percent of gaming revenue came from electronic games and e-bingo, for a total of PHP14.32 billion. Licensed casinos and PAGCOR-operated gaming halls accounted for 44 percent, for a collective PHP11.2 billion. Net income came to PHP4.22 billion, up 23 percent year on year.

“This solid performance reflects PAGCOR’s commitment to responsible governance and fiscal discipline,” said Alejandro H. Tengco, the regulator’s chairman and CEO.

Macau Golden Week Exceeds Expectations

Macau enjoyed a tourism boom during the recent Golden Week national holiday, celebrated May 1-5. According to the Macau Daily Times, the Chinese special administrative region welcomed more than 850,000 visitors for the period, far surpassing the government estimate of 630,000 to 700,000.

Arrivals surged 40.5 percent from the 2024 total of nearly 605,000. Friday, May 2, saw the highest single-day total since the Covid-19 pandemic, with almost 222,000 arrivals, according to the Macao Government Tourism Office. Mainland Chinese tourists accounted for 678,500 arrivals, up nearly 40 percent year on year.

Historically, Macau casinos post the highest revenue in May, August and October. During those months, millions of mainland tourists flood the SAR, the only place in China where casino gambling is legal.

Bank to Sell Land Under Failed Philippines Resort Project

Three times, Dennis Uy’s PH Resorts Group has tried and failed to find an investor for its Emerald Bay casino resort in the Philippines. It was in talks with a fourth would-be angel, construction and engineering firm EEI Corp., when China Banking Corp. announced it will sell the property in Cebu.

According to the Philippine Inquirer, Chinabank Chairman Hans Sy said “a couple of interested parties” could purchase the 30-acre beachfront tract. He did not identify potential buyers.

Emerald Bay, once called “a luxury leisure experience unlike any other,” was to include a five-star hotel, four pools, 18 dining outlets, retail spaces, conference and exhibition facilities, and a large-scale gaming floor with more than 700 electronic gaming machines and over 140 tables.

In December, Uy and EEI signed an MOU to complete the IR, which broke ground in 2017.

“We gave Dennis a chance to redeem,” said Sy. “Of course, they asked for an extension and we already gave them more than a year. It’s already in our name. … We’re not renewing anymore.”

By Kyle Goldsmith   Fri, May 9, 2025

New study highlights potential of municipal betting in Brazil, Peru battles offshore sites, Flutter bullish on LatAm despite Q1 decline and more.

Study: Municipal Betting Could Add $2 Billion to Brazil’s Federal Revenue

The firm Leme Consultores has released a study estimating municipal betting could add BRL11.6 billion ($2 billion) a year to the federal government’s revenue.

Commissioned by the National Association of Municipal and State Lotteries, the study analyzed the economic impact of municipal betting as debates continue in Brazil over its constitutionality.

The Solidarity Party filed a motion to suspend municipal lotteries in March, though Supreme Federal Court Minister Nunes Marques denied the request, with municipal lotteries allowed to continue operations until a final ruling from the STF.

Leme Consultores’ study found around BRL8 billion of the BRL12 billion total could come from smaller companies that are unable to meet the high barriers of entry for a federal license.

Peru Regulator Claims to Have Cut Illegal Online Gambling Supply by 40 percent

The Peru Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Mincetur) says its enforcement efforts have led to a 40 percent drop in illegal gambling on digital platforms and apps.

Mincetur, the body regulating Peru’s gambling market, shared an update on its website May 2, more than a year after Law No 31557 regulating online betting and gaming took effect.

The authority claims progress in tackling the black market, estimating it has eliminated 15 percent of illegal platforms and slashed illegal online gambling supply by 40 percent.

According to Mincetur, its General Directorate of Casino Games and Slot Machines authority has “intensified its oversight, closing illegal establishments and promoting coordinated actions to reduce the presence of clandestine platforms.”

Flutter CEO Upbeat on Brazil Despite Q1 Revenue Hit

Despite KYC friction leading to Q1 losses for Flutter in Brazil, CEO Peter Jackson sees the NSX Group acquisition as a step toward sustained growth.

Flutter experienced a 44 percent decline in Brazil revenue year-on-year in Q1, driven by KYC bottlenecks in its Betfair business during the first three months of the regulated betting market.

However, Jackson expects closure this month on the deal to acquire an initial 56 percent stake in NSX Group, owner of the Brazil-facing Betnacional brand, placing Flutter in “an enhanced competitive position, in a fast-growing newly regulated market.”

“Combining a strong local management team, localized proprietary technology and a local hero brand in Betnacional, alongside our existing Betfair Brazil business and Flutter Edge capabilities will position us for success in this very exciting market,” Jackson said on the post-results analyst call.

Betano Announces Long-Term Principal Partnership with River Plate

Kaizen Gaming has agreed a deal for its Betano brand to become the main and front-of-shirt partner for Argentinian soccer team River Plate.

Betano, which launched in Argentina last year, will become the club’s partner from the current season, and Kaizen Gaming Chief Commercial Officer Julio Iglesias believes the deal aligns two organizations with similar outlooks.

“As soon as we started speaking with the club, we knew we had found a partner who shared our values and relentless drive to raise the bar and set the highest standards in everything they do,” Iglesias said.

River Plate President Jorge Brito added: “With this partnership, we continue to grow, break new ground, and we’re excited to welcome Betano to the River Plate family.”

Colombian Regulator to Request ISPs to Block Illegal Sites

The Colombian gambling regulator Coljuegos will send direct requests to Internet Service Providers to block illegal gambling sites, as part of its strengthening of efforts to fight the black market.

So far, Coljuegos has issued close to 26,600 blocking orders to unlicensed betting sites, with the regulator’s President Marco Emilio Hincapié explaining the new procedures will hopefully lead to sites being blocked quicker.

“We will no longer have to submit requests to different entities; instead, we will be able to order blocks directly from internet providers,” Hincapié said.

“In addition to fighting illegal operators, our goal is to protect resources for peace and health, as well as provide greater safeguards for the 14 authorized operators in the country.”

By Frank Legato   Fri, May 9, 2025

The latest announcements from Interblock, AGS, Playtech and more.

Interblock’s UC SicBo Named Best ETG

Electronic table game leader Interblock announced that UC SicBo has been awarded Best ETG at the G2E Asia Awards 2025. The award was accepted by Vincent Tang, vice president of Asia-Pacific sales, during the ceremony held on May 6 in Macau.

UC SicBo, part of Interblock’s Universal Cabinet (UC) product line, is recognized as one of the most widely installed standalone electronic table games in Asia, with over 300 active units across Macau and Singapore.

The game modernizes traditional Sic Bo by incorporating fully automated dice recognition, real-time statistical analysis, and predictive betting trends—delivering unmatched speed, accuracy, and operational efficiency. With customizable bet levels, instant result tracking and seamless integration with casino management systems, UC SicBo is designed to meet the demands of high-volume gaming environments.

AGS, Caesars Partner Online

Caesars Entertainment, Inc. announced an expansion to its partnership with gaming supplier AGS making Caesars’ online casino platforms the exclusive first online home for the immensely popular Triple Coin Treasures family of slot titles. This expansion includes a series of classic and new slot title launches across North America on Caesars Palace Online Casino, Caesars Sportsbook & Casino, and Horseshoe Online Casino.

The first exclusive launch will introduce the game Shamrock Fortunes to Caesars’ online casino players, bringing this beloved title that has long been enjoyed at Caesars Rewards destinations in North America online for the first time.

Additional launches later in 2025 will include another Triple Coin Treasures classic, a unique Caesars-branded version of a title, and never-before-played titles from AGS that will debut simultaneously at Caesars destinations and on Caesars’ marquee online casino platforms.

Playtech, evoke plc Launch Branded, Dedicated Live Casino Studios

Playtech announced that it has successfully launched the third dedicated live casino studio with evoke plc, after securing a new long-term partnership with the group.

The latest dedicated studio, Club Aurora, marks the third milestone in the series of Live Casino studios and further enriches the evoke brands including 888casino, William Hill and Mr Green Live Casino portfolio.

Centered on attracting a core Live Casino audience, Club Aurora features a series of classic blackjack tables and roulette, all set within a modern and entertaining space. In addition to these traditional games, the studio boasts a unique dedicated Trivia Hub, offering a completely free-to-play game to entertain and engage a broad audience.

The Club Aurora launch follows the initial success of the 888 branded environments and co-branded casino studios that were launched in 2024, including the popular Mega Fire Blaze roulette, blackjack and localized tables.

Novomatic Expands Asian Distribution Network

Austria’s Novomatic AG announced a new strategic distribution partnership with Harvest Gaming, a renowned company based in Singapore. This new venture marks an important step in Novomatic’s strategy of expanding its presence across Asia and reinforces the group’s long-term commitment to international growth through strong regional collaborations.

Under the new agreement, Harvest Gaming will represent Novomatic’s 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.

Konami Unveils SYNK Vision Tables

Konami Gaming, Inc. launched SYNK Vision Tables at this week’s G2E Asia, marking a significant advancement in biometric player recognition by integrating slot machines and table games into a unified platform.

Powered by Synkros, Konami’s award-winning casino management system, SYNK Vision creates a comprehensive gaming ecosystem. Developed in collaboration with Xailient, this cutting-edge solution employs privacy-safe facial recognition technology to deliver a seamless and secure gaming experience while adhering to the highest standards of data protection.

SYNK Vision Slots has already transformed the gaming floor by allowing players to log in, earn rewards, and receive personalized promotions simply by sitting down at a machine. Through real-time biometric authentication, the system enhances security, prevents card misuse, and eliminates the need for physical loyalty cards. Players and operators have embraced this seamless experience, improving engagement and operational efficiency.

FanDuel Casino Jackpots Live in Three States

FanDuel Casino Jackpots is now available for all players in New Jersey, Michigan and Pennsylvania. FanDuel Casino officially added Pennsylvania as the third state to launch.

Since FanDuel Casino Jackpots launched in early 2025, over 50,000 players have won on FanDuel Casino, with more than 1500 winners per day.

FanDuel Casino acquired player engagement specialist BeyondPlay in February 2024. By adding BeyondPlay to FanDuel Casino, the company has strengthened its customer experience. ”

BetComply Partners with Binderr

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

Together, BetComply and Binderr will change the way the iGaming industry onboards partners, conducts due diligence and searches for appropriate financial services, according to the company.

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.

ToonieBet Launches Sportsbook

ToonieBet, Soft2Bet’s flagship online casino and sportsbook for Ontario, has officially launched its sportsbook on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. The platform is tailored specifically for local players, offering a dynamic betting experience with a broad range of sports events and competitive odds. The platform also features personalized promotions and loyalty rewards designed to match the preferences of Ontario’s diverse betting community.

The sportsbook uses official data feeds, ensuring players have access to the most accurate and up-to-date information on top local and international sports events. Additionally, the platform offers live broadcasting with real-time match analytics, allowing users to make informed betting decisions as events unfold.

Integrated with MEGA and advanced player account management features, the operator is committed to delivering a seamless and responsible gaming environment that enhances the overall player experience while supporting local sports initiatives.

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.

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

BetComply Names Iliana Lazarova Head of Accounting

BetComply, has appointed Iliana Lazarova as its first-ever head of account management.

Lazarova brings with her more than 15 years of experience in the online gaming sector, including senior account management roles at Markor Technology, Microgaming and Yggdrasil.

She joins at a time of rapid expansion for BetComply, as the company grows its team to more than 20 members to support a fast-growing roster of clients.

Lazarova is just the latest senior hire at BetComply. In March, the firm appointed former Entain executive Jez White in a new role overseeing safer gambling and sustainability.

Lunicorn Names Megan Easey Director of Operations

Fintech and iGaming supplier Lunicorn Ventures announced the appointment of Megan Easey as group director of operations.

With over 20 years of experience across iGaming, fintech and banking, Easey brings a powerhouse blend of operational leadership, strategic clarity, and startup-savvy execution. Her global career has spanned both B2B and B2C businesses, where she has consistently delivered innovation, performance and cultural transformation.

At Lunicorn, Easey will play a critical role in ensuring the company’s investments and partnerships have the operational backbone to go the distance.

By Breiman Munoz   Fri, May 9, 2025

This week we sit down with Mark Birtha, president and CEO of Hard Rock Sacramento at Fire Mountain.

Mark Birtha has worked for several of the industry’s largest companies, including Station Casinos and Las Vegas Sands, as well as developing Tucson’s Casino of the Sun for the Pascua Yaqui tribe. But his time helping to build and operate Hard Rock Sacramento for the Estom Yumeka Maidu Indians of the Enterprise Rancheria tribe has been the most rewarding. He talks about that process, why Hard Rock was the perfect partner, and how it has developed into one of northern California’s most successful casino resorts. He spoke with GGB Editor-at-Large Roger Gros in his office at the Hard Rock in May.