By Robert Fletcher   Thu, Jun 5, 2025

Emerald Queen Casino said the Tacoma Dome deal focuses on entertainment and community engagement.

The Emerald Queen Casino & Hotel in Tacoma, Washington has entered a partnership with the nearby Tacoma Dome indoor multi-purpose arena.

Under the deal, which runs for five years, Emerald Queen will become the official casino hotel partner of the venue. The 21,000-capacity Tacoma Dome is located less than two miles from the casino. Since opening its doors in 1981, Tacoma Dome has played host to various acts, including iconic rock band AC/DC.

According to Emerald Queen, the partnership will focus on shared commitments to entertainment and community engagement in the local region. The deal will also see Tacoma Dome provide Emerald Queen with event tickets for its top-tier players.

In addition, the link-up will celebrate the history and cultural contributions of the Puyallup Tribe of Indians. Emerald Queen is owned and operated by the Puyallup Tribe.

Tacoma Dome Deal Offers Opportunities for Community

“Emerald Queen Casino has long been a destination for world-class entertainment,” Emerald Queen CEO Yale Rowe said. “Partnering with the Tacoma Dome is a natural fit to amplify our offerings to the community and those visiting our area.”

Adam Cook, director of Tacoma Venues & Events at the Tacoma Dome, also welcomed the deal. Cook said it will allow more people in the community to attend high-profile events at the venue.

“Through this partnership, we’ll bring more opportunities for the community to experience some of the best events the state has to offer,” Cook said.

Upcoming concerts at Tacoma Dome include international music artists such as Ado, A.R. Rahman and ATEEZ.

By Robert Fletcher   Thu, Jun 5, 2025

Chez Frites and Sunny’s will both occupy the lobby level at Atlantic City’s Ocean Casino Resort.

Atlantic City’s Ocean Casino Resort has announced further details of two restaurant concepts it will launch in partnership with renowned restaurateur Stephen Starr.

Chez Frites and Sunny’s will both begin accepting reservations from August 1. Ocean Casino first announced its link-up with Starr in April this year.

Located on the lobby level, Chez Frites will be a French-themed restaurant, offering a range of dishes to customers. The venue will feature seating for up to 150 customers and a bar area.

Opening next to Chez Frites will be Sunny’s, an American breakfast and lunch bistro. With a menu inspired by American cuisine, the restaurant will offer both bar and table seating with views of Atlantic City.

Exciting Concept for Starr and Ocean Casino

Commenting on the double reveal, Starr said he is excited for the new restaurants to open. Incidentally, Starr worked in Atlantic City in his younger years and previously said the Ocean Casino link-up brings him “full circle.”

“American and French cuisines have always been two of my favorites, each offering its own unique sense of comfort, tradition and indulgence,” Starr said. “Helping to shape these experiences with Chez Frites and Sunny’s in Atlantic City is especially exciting.

“I can’t wait for guests to experience them at Ocean Casino Resort this summer.”

Starr opened his first restaurant in 1995, with an initial focus on Philadelphia. He has since expanded the network by opening venues in key U.S. locations such as New York, South Florida and Washington D.C.

In 2016, Starr established his first overseas location in Paris.

By Ira David Sternberg   Wed, Jun 4, 2025

Everyone has been talking about the impact of tariffs on Las Vegas, but what about the city's ability to implement its own? As usual, Ira David Sternberg has some ideas.

While there has been talk (and media coverage) about the effects of tariffs on tourism in Las Vegas, no one has recognized the ability of Las Vegas to impose its own brand of tariffs. 

In an era of paid parking, resort fees, and reduced services on the Strip, we should expect Las Vegas to add more barriers for accessing entertainment, dining and gaming. Here’s what guests (players) could look forward to in this new era:

• $5 in chips gets $4 in play. Think of it as fair trade. One dollar goes to benefit dealers. (And besides, the dollar doesn’t go as far as it used to.)
• An extra 10 percent is added to your bill in the gift shop for anything made in China. Looks like that could be the whole inventory.
• If you use the swimming pool, you will be assessed a water resource charge. 
• Room Service adds a 10 percent “room enter” fee to the standard charge.
• There’s an add-on charge on your showroom bill for any performers who are Canadian.
• Self-Parking will now add $2 to the parking bill, which is for “insurance” in case you hit a pillar or another car.
• Convention attendees are normally not charged by the facility, but could see a non-resident conventioneer tax.
• For each play at the Craps table, there will be a value added tax.
• Casino entry will now require a domestic visa (unless you’re a high roller, in which case you just pay cash. As usual).
• Special Events charge. For every special event attended at a casino, there will be a SE charge.
• Valet Parking charges 10 percent more if your car is foreign (imported), naturally.
• Every airplane passenger arriving in Las Vegas will be charged a $10 “experience fee.” The upside is that you will be able to reserve your own seat at a slot machine.
• Fair trade is fair trade. Any car crossing the California-Nevada state line into Vegas with food and/or beverage, will pay an import tax to compensate the county for not buying it on the Strip. After all, resort food and beverage departments are expensive to maintain. 

While Las Vegas continues to raise prices, decrease services and potentially enact tariffs, other resort destinations could take a page out of our own history books and compete with our city by lowering prices. 

Did someone say “99¢ shrimp cocktail”?

By Robert Fletcher   Wed, Jun 4, 2025

Synectics will continue to provide the casino with its proprietary Synergy software platform.

Advanced security and surveillance solutions provider Synectics has announced a five-year extension to its contract with a casino in Southeast Asia.

The new agreement will be worth at least $4.8 million to Synectics. The provider did not identify the casino but did state it is one of the world’s “most high-profile gaming resorts.”

Synectics will continue to provide the casino with its proprietary Synergy software platform. This, the provider added, will support the resort’s ongoing development and evolving requirements.

Synectics Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Amanda Larnder said of the extension: “We look forward to continuing this successful collaboration as we deliver mission-critical software support. It reinforces our position as a trusted long-term technology partner to one of the world’s leading casino operators.”

Another Renewed Casino Deal for Synectics

Synectics works with clients across various industries, with the gaming sector being a key area. It has partnerships in place with clients across major gaming markets including the U.S., Canada, Singapore, Macau and the Philippines.

In total, its solutions are used in more than 100 gaming properties around the world. It also has over 15,000 cameras recording on 15 gaming cruise ships

According to the provider, 150,000 channels are being monitored and recorded across tightly regulated casinos.

Earlier this year, Synectics also extended another contract with a casino client in Southeast Asia. While again it opted not to disclose the identity of the customer, it stated the deal will be worth approximately $2.2 million.

By Robert Fletcher   Wed, Jun 4, 2025

Rampart Casino said the new high limit room "redefines the essence of upscale gaming."

Rampart Casino at the Resort at Summerlin has announced that it will open a new high-limit room at its Las Vegas venue on July 3.

Part of the resort’s recent $75 million, multi-year renovation, the high-limit room will cover an area spanning 50,000 square feet. It will feature a range of gaming options, a high-end bar and other facilities, the casino said.

In terms of gaming, all machines will be “key to credit” eligible. The casino said this makes it easier for players to convert their winnings into playable credits. Dragon Cash, Spooky Link, Monopoly Express and Grand Buddha will be among the games offered.

However, the main feature will be a luxury bar, which the casino billed as the room’s “crown jewel.” Open from 10 a.m. to midnight daily, the bar will offer a signature craft cocktail menu, top-shelf liquors and a selection of fine wines.

Additional amenities for players include a dedicated ATM, private restrooms and around-the-clock food and beverages.

Rampart Casino Talks Up ‘Exceptional’ New Offering

Sam Garritano, vice president of casino operations at Rampart Casino, said the new high-limit room “redefines the essence of upscale gaming.”

“Every detail, from the luxurious design elements to the elite-level service and premier game offerings, has been meticulously curated to offer our most distinguished guests an atmosphere of exclusivity, sophistication and unmatched comfort,” Garritano said.

“It is not merely a gaming space, but a destination for those who expect nothing less than the exceptional.”

To mark the opening, Rampart Casino will introduce a “Must Hit by Jackpot” exclusive to the room. The progressive jackpot starts at $5,000 and is guaranteed to hit $10,000, with real-time progressive amounts being displayed in the room.

By Robert Fletcher   Tue, Jun 3, 2025

Some commentators said the number of casinos in Northern Cyprus could reach 60.

The Northern Cyprus Assembly of the Republic has approved a relaxed set of laws for land-based casinos, despite heavy criticism from the main opposition party.

According to the Cyprus Mail, key changes in regulations include the removal of limits on how many casinos can be given planning permission in Northern Cyprus. Restrictions on how close a casino can be to a town center have also been dropped, while casinos can also now be built as close as 100 meters from a school.

The ban on Turkish Cypriots from entering casinos in the north has been downgraded to a civil offense. This means Turkish Cypriots could face fines of up to €50 ($57) by playing at a casino in Northern Cyprus.

In addition, the new rules make it easier for casinos to operate inside hotels. Now, hotels only need a minimum of 500 beds to run a casino, down from the previous limit of 750.

Some commentators have said the rule changes in the region, officially the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, could see the number of casinos increase from 32 to 60.

Heavy Opposition Over New Rules for Casinos

New regulations were championed by the National Unity Party, which holds a majority in the Assembly. However, the Republic Turkish Party (CTP), the main opposition, raised concerns over the changes.

Fikri Toros of the CTP was among those to voice his criticism. He said while casinos can help the economy, they can also lead to “serious” social problems such as gambling addiction.

Toros also hit out at the decision to downgrade the ban on Turkish Cypriots from entering casinos. He said: “The fact that this ban can be violated with a symbolic penalty of €50 means that the state is encouraging its citizens to turn to gambling.”

The CTP’s Salahi Sahiner also criticized the changes. He picked out how the laws allow casinos to open so close to schools. He described this as a “betrayal to society.”

Sahiner asked: “Do you want children to become addicted to gambling? You are having casinos opened right next to schools. The mistake you make today will embarrass you in the eyes of your children. You are knowingly opening the door to gambling addictions, to societal collapse, and to destruction.”

Sami Ozuslu was another CTP member to speak out against the new regulations. He said the world will see Northern Cyprus as a “casino paradise.”

“We are surpassing Macau,” he said. “With this law, you are not only doubling the number of existing casinos but also filling all the coasts with these structures. Forget about taking them out of the cities, you have put them right next to the schools.”

By Robert Fletcher   Tue, Jun 3, 2025

The Resorts Association and Culinary Union have both put their names to an amendment.

The Resorts Association and Culinary Union in Las Vegas have joined forces to call for reestablishment of specialty courts that would allow judges to ban people convicted of misdemeanor crimes from visiting the city’s famous Strip.

The courts began operating in 2023, creating a single judicial department assigning criminal cases when the alleged offense was committed within the Strip. However, the courts were halted last year.

Now, the Resorts Association and Culinary Union have written to Governor Joe Lombardo calling for their return via an amendment. The letter, obtained by The Nevada Independent, sets out how those convicted could be banned for up to one year.

The amendment would be made to Lombardo’s criminal justice bill (SB 457). This passed out of the Senate this week by a vote of 20-1.

Trespassing and attacks on Las Vegas Strip

The letter referenced several incidents of hotel and casino workers being attacked by people who had trespassed. One man was revealed to have trespassed 700 times, while a female trespassed 21 times and attacked a security officer.

“To be clear, there are just too many incidents like this to list,” the letter said. “We are imploring you to enact meaningful safeguards to prevent the escalation of crimes senselessly perpetrated against our tourists and resort employees.”

Senator Melanie Scheible is working with the two unions on the amendment. In addition to reestablishing the courts, it would establish harsher penalties for individuals who commit crimes against hospitality workers. Penalties would also be increased for re-offenders.

However, the amendment also made clear it would leave it up to justice courts whether to establish the specialty program.

By Robert Fletcher   Mon, Jun 2, 2025

Plans are for the new Vietnam casino venue to open within nine years from the date of land allocation.

The Vietnam Ministry of Finance is seeking approval from Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh for an investment policy on a new large-scale casino project in Quảng Ninh province.

Dubbed the Vân Đồn casino project, the luxury tourism and services complex initiative would cost an estimated VNĐ51.5 trillion ($2.16 billion). It is proposed that venue be built in Vạn Yên Commune, Vân Đồn District, according to Viêt Nam News.

The proposal paints a picture of a “high-end resort and entertainment complex.” Its main focus will be to operate a casino and provide related services in line with regional laws in Vietnam.

The ministry also proposed a pilot project allowing Vietnamese citizens to take part in casino gaming. This, however, would need to fit in with existing laws and the directives of the government.

Investor Would Commit VNĐ7.7 Trillion to Casino Project

In the proposal, the ministry recommended Quảng Ninh Provincial People’s Committee take responsibility for selecting an investor. The successful party would then fund 15% of the entire project.

In total, the investor would commit VNĐ7.7 trillion in funding to the initiative. The remaining amount would be financed through bank loans.

It is hoped the project would be complete within nine years from the date of land allocation. This would be split into three phases: one running from 2023 to 2027, then 2027 to 2031 and 2031 to 2032.

Should the project get the green light, the ministry expects it to contribute VNĐ228.928 trillion to the budget during its 70-year lifespan. This includes VNĐ134.3 trillion in corporate income tax and VNĐ94.5 trillion in value-added tax.

By Robert Fletcher   Mon, Jun 2, 2025

The DC Office of Lottery and Gaming will oversee the distribution of licenses if the proposal passes.

Washington, DC Mayor Muriel Bowser’s 2026 budget has proposed allowing commercial table game tournaments including bingo, poker and blackjack.

The proposal would see two-year licenses made available. Interested parties would have a $5,000 application fee and a $2,000 charge for each location they want to run games.

If plans get the green light, DC operators will face a 25% tax on gross gaming revenue from the card-based table games. Bingo would incur a 7.5% tax rate on gross receipts.

Other aspects of the proposal include that it would cost DC $249,000 in fiscal year 2026. The total cost is estimated at $1.0 million over the full length of the plan, which runs to 2029.

The DC Office of Lottery and Gaming would oversee the distribution of licenses. The nation’s capital does not have legal casinos.

“Our initial thinking is we will open them up to our hotel properties,” Bowser said, according to WTOP. “Our initial thinking around the commercial bingo is that we would open them up to restaurants.”

Cheaper Table Games Licenses May Appeal in DC

Ian Thomas, an attorney who specializes in gaming law, talked up the plans. He noted how the licenses would be priced lower than in other jurisdictions.

“I think it’s an interesting expansion in gaming law in the District,” Thomas told WTOP. “You see a lot of different jurisdictions using gambling and gaming as a means to increase revenues.”

“There are often times when licenses are extraordinarily expensive — hundreds of thousands of dollars, and millions of dollars, in some cases. And here, with application fees being relatively low, the affordability leads me to believe that there is some contemplation here that small or midsized local businesses may be able to take advantage of this sort of new offering in DC.”

However, Thomas said if DC is to generate more revenue from gambling, there should also be consideration for additional spending on protecting players from gambling-related harm.

“I would hope that if we’re going to expand the scope of gambling, that consideration is given to maybe putting some of that money back in the budget to deal with, or to offset, some of the issues that come with legalizing and expanding this industry,” Thomas said.

By Richard Mulligan   Fri, May 30, 2025

AUSTRAC has instructed major casino resorts in Darwin and Townsville to appoint external auditors to assess their AML/CTF compliance.

Australia’s finance intelligence agency has instructed The Ville Resort-Casino in Townsville and Mindil Beach Casino Resort in Darwin to appoint external auditors to assess their AML/CTF compliance.

The actions were taken after the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) identified potential gaps and deficiencies in AML/CTF controls, risk and oversight. AUSTRAC is an Australian government financial intelligence agency responsible for monitoring financial transactions to identify money laundering, organized crime, tax evasion, welfare fraud and terrorism financing.

AUSTRAC Chief Executive Brendan Thomas said the body has particular concerns as the two casinos operate gaming machines and table games which come with an elevated risk.

The scope of the audits will include the maintenance of an AML/CTF program that identifies, mitigates and manages money laundering and terrorism financing (ML/TF) risks. Auditors must also provide a risk assessment, ensure the establishment of competent oversight, and direct the appropriate monitoring of customers.

Queensland’s Ville Resort-Casino has almost 200 hotel rooms, over 370 gaming machines and more than 20 table games. Northern Territory’s Mindil Beach Casino has 150 hotel rooms, 600 electronic gaming machines and 30 table games.

AUSTRAC’s Latest Actions Against Casinos

AUSTRAC’s action follows high-profile actions against casinos Crown Resorts, Sky City and The Star and online bookmakers Entain, Sports bet and Bet 365.

“Although they may be smaller than entities such as Crown Resorts and The Star, like all gambling venues, The Ville and Mindil Beach face heightened risk of exploitation by criminals,” Thomas said.

“AUSTRAC is serious about driving illicit money out of the gambling industry in Australia and making sure businesses that facilitate gambling have strong money laundering controls.”

Thomas added: “My message to boards and CEOs of gambling business, including pubs and clubs with gaming machines, is to make sure you comply with Australian money laundering laws and take your responsibility to tackle money laundering seriously; we are watching, and we will take further action.

“Money laundering harms our economy and it allows criminals to profit from some of the most awful crimes – we need to stamp it out.”

By Richard Mulligan   Fri, May 30, 2025

The experienced gaming industry executive has been named vice president of customer success at the payment solutions provider.

Gaming industry payment solutions provider Pavilion Payments has named Brock Moorehouse as its new vice president of customer success.

In his new role, Moorehouse will lead the customer success team, focusing on enhancing client satisfaction and supporting the adoption of Pavilion’s omnichannel payment products. The executive will seek to evolve the customer success manager role to better meet customer needs while aligning with the Las Vegas-headquartered group’s growth and innovation strategies.

Moorehouse brings over 17 years of experience in the gaming sector, having launched his career in 2008 at Downstream Casino Resort in Oklahoma. He advanced from cage operations to director of compliance, building a strong foundation in casino operations and developing a customer-centric approach. Moorehouse’s leadership in compliance across various departments allowed him to refine his ability to align operational processes with broader business objectives.

“I’m thrilled to join Pavilion Payments at such an exciting time,” said Moorehouse. “I look forward to working closely with our customers and the Pavilion team to ensure our solutions not only meet but exceed expectations, driving success for all stakeholders.”

Pavilion COO Welcomes Moorehouse’s Arrival

Prior to joining Pavilion, Moorehouse collaborated with the company on several key product rollouts, including the launch of VIP Mobility at its first casino location.

“I’ve known Brock to be a relentless advocate for his guests and team,” said Lori Lawson, chief operations officer at Pavilion. “His 17 years in casino operations, combined with hands-on experience using our products, make him the ideal leader to champion our mission of setting a new standard for customer success.”

Moorehouse becomes the third senior hire at Pavilion in a matter of days. Earlier this month, Alyssa Beaver was named senior vice president of sales, while Sarah Perry became vice president of gaming operations.

By Jess Marquez   Fri, May 30, 2025

Steve Cohen’s years of intense lobbying are continuing to pay off, as the Mets owner’s Metropolitan Park rezoning bill has cleared the state legislature.

The New York state Senate voted 54-5 May 27 to approve the rezoning of 50 acres of parkland near Citi Field in Queens, clearing the way for Mets owner Steve Cohen to develop his $8 billion Metropolitan Park proposal.

The rezoning was approved by the state Assembly earlier this year, and it now heads to Gov. Kathy Hochul’s desk for final approval.

Cohen and partner Hard Rock International seem to have catapulted themselves to a frontrunner position for one of three downstate New York casino licenses, due to be handed out by the end of the year. While there’s no guarantee that Hochul will approve the rezoning, Cohen is a major donor to the state’s Democratic Committee, led by Hochul.

State Sen. Jessica Ramos, whose district includes much of the Citi Field site, has long opposed the project and refused to champion legislation for it. However, Sen. John Liu introduced it instead, and Ramos acknowledged earlier this year that she may not be able to block its passage despite her opposition.

“This is not about a building or a parcel of parkland,” Ramos told Gothamist following the Senate vote. “It’s about power. It’s about whether communities like mine are treated as partners or as pawns.”

All told, Cohen and partners over the last two years spent more than $3 million in lobbying efforts in the lead-up to the vote, per Gothamist. Their proposal is one of eight considered in the running for a casino license, with their applications due in June.

“After years of community engagement, thousands of conversations, and the leadership of our local elected officials, we are one step closer to transforming these asphalt lots into something our neighbors can truly be proud of,” Cohen said in a statement.

By Jess Marquez   Fri, May 30, 2025

Three Las Vegas gaming companies have been fined for anti-money laundering violations this year. Fontainebleau Las Vegas could be the fourth, per state regulators.

The tentacles of anti-money laundering scandals appear to be extending themselves further and further throughout southern Nevada, with the Fontainebleau Las Vegas said to be the latest focus. It was inadvertently revealed at last week’s Nevada Gaming Commission meeting that the casino is facing an AML probe over credit approvals.

Fontainebleau, owned by Jeffrey Soffer and Koch Real Estate Investments, is the newest addition to the Las Vegas Strip. It was beset by many years of delays and ballooned in costs to $3.7 billion before opening in December 2023. News of it being the subject of a probe slipped out in the course of commission discussion regarding the licence of Maurice Wooden, who has been president of the resort since January 2024.

Wooden at one point was asked by Commissioner Rosa Solis-Rainey to tell her “about the issues that are currently going on at the Fontainebleau with respect to credit issuance,” per the Nevada Current. His response, per the outlet, was, “I’m not sure of any investigation as it relates to anything with AML. Is there something specific? I’m not sure.”

That then kicked off a tense quarrel between officials, as information that an investigation was taking place was supposedly confidential. Nevada has two regulatory bodies, the Gaming Control Board and the Gaming Commission. The NGCB handles investigations and gives recommendations to the commission for final ruling. NGCB Chair Kirk Hendrick was present and asked that the discussion be stopped immediately.

“I don’t want to go any deeper into this matter until the board has an opportunity to review it and, of course, speak with the licensee,” Hendrick said, per the Nevada Independent. “There’s no problem with the commission having that material.”

The NGCB did not respond to a request for comment on the investigation.

Despite the confusion, Wooden’s licence was approved unanimously, albeit on a limited two-year basis while the matter plays out. The NGCB had notably recommended an unlimited license. In a statement, the Fontainebleau referred to the matter as an “ongoing audit,” and said it was “pleased that Maurice Wooden was found suitable.”

While no official details regarding the investigation have been released, statements made during the hearing indicate that the board became aware of instances in which the casino’s management denied credit to one or more customers, with those denials then overruled by ownership. A total of five player accounts were audited and the board took issue with three, per Fontainebleau executive Stacy Michaels.

According to reporting from the Current, the casino reportedly issued a $2 million marker in January 2024 to Damien LeForbes, an illegal bookmaker and former pro poker player. He has had a role in other Las Vegas AML investigations in recent months, including those with MGM Resorts and Resorts World Las Vegas. LeForbes is connected to Matt Bowyer, another bookmaker at the centre of these scandals.

RJ Cipriani, a professional gambler and whistleblower in many of these cases, alleged last year that LeForbes took winnings that were made off that credit and paid other debts around town before ultimately blowing through the marker itself.

“All the casinos that took DJ LeForbes’ and Matt Bowyer’s action are being investigated by GCB,” Cipriani told the Current last week.

By Frank Legato   Fri, May 30, 2025

New York: the latest on Bally’s, Sands and Caesars, Nevada gaming posts ho-hum April and more.

Bally’s Denied City Council Vote on Bronx Proposal

The New York City Council May 27 refused to vote on rezoning legislation for the Bronx casino proposal from Bally’s Corp., which could be a huge blow to the project’s chances to secure one of three downstate licenses. Both the council and the state legislature must approve the bill, and the session ends June 12 while the council next meets on June 11.

Bally’s is proposing a casino-resort project at the site of the golf course it owns at Ferry Point, which was purchased from the Trump Organization in 2023. If the project is awarded a license, Bally’s would be obligated to pay an additional $115 million.

Because of this, Bally’s Chairman Soo Kim posited that lawmakers are trying to tank the bid to prevent Trump from benefiting.

“They’re saying, ‘If Bally’s wins, Trump benefits.’ That’s crazy,” Kim told the New York Post. “If we don’t get a vote in the City Council, we can’t advance our bid.”

Legislative sources indicated to the Post that while the non-vote is a setback for Bally’s, the company still has one last chance at the plate in the coming weeks.

Sands Still Searching for Long Island Exit Partner

Despite the fact that Las Vegas Sands has already dropped out of the running for a New York casino license, the company is still actively trying to find a partner to take over its bid at the Nassau Coliseum site as the June 27 application deadline approaches.

“These discussions are still ongoing and the company is hopeful that a deal can still be reached,” Sands attorney Daniel Baker said at a zoning meeting in Hempstead, New York last week, per Newsday. “However, the company also recognizes that there is little time left before applications are due to the state on June 27 and it may not be possible.”

Things are further complicated by the fact that the project’s final environmental impact study estimated that the development would cost as much as $7.6 billion, almost double Sands’ original estimate of $4 billion. Nassau County executives have contended that there has been interest in the project, but few details have emerged.

A separate Newsday report from May 28 revealed that DraftKings was supposedly among the interested parties, but a deal could not be reached. The company is the second-largest sports betting and iGaming operator in the U.S., but has not operated casinos before.

Caesars Times Square Gets Support from Wyndham CEO

A second environmental public comment hearing for the Caesars Palace Times Square proposal hosted by the New York State Gaming Commission on Wednesday was headlined by a notable endorsement of the project.

Geoff Ballotti, president and CEO of hospitality giant Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, called in to the hearing to offer praise for the casino proposed at 1515 Broadway. Caesars Entertainment is partnering with SL Green and Roc Nation for the bid, not Wyndham.

However, Caesars and Wyndham allow for rewards points cross-matching, a popular arrangement among gaming and non-gaming hotel operators. As of last year, Wyndham was listed as the largest hotel operator in the U.S. by property count, per CEOWorld magazine.

“We believe that this is the only location, having looked at them all, been approached by other partners, where a casino will blend seamlessly into the identity and character of a neighborhood that really needs an upgrade,” Ballotti said.

He later called the project “the most comprehensive private safety and security investment in the history of Times Square” and said it has Wyndham’s full support.

The second public comment portion for the Caesars project was very different from the first. Last week’s call was dominated by union officials voicing support for the project. This time around, the mix of callers who were opposed versus supportive was about 50-50, perhaps even slightly more opposed.

A large number of local residents called in for the second portion and seemed to be frustrated with how the state’s process is playing out. Multiple callers were irritated that an environmental hearing was being dominated by unions talking about job benefits, instead of there being a focus on the impact to local communities.

Some opponents suggested that the developers could be paying for the support, both publicly and privately. One man alleged that the partners were engaging in schemes like offering free food for petition signatures and paying as much as $20,000 per month for some officials’ support. No such allegations have been verified.

Nevada Gaming Revenue Flat in April, Strip Falls Again

In a month that was dominated by tariff announcements and economic uncertainty, the Nevada gaming industry generated gross gaming revenue of $1.23 billion in April, according to data from the Nevada Gaming Control Board. The total was flat year-on-year and the state is now down 1 percent for the fiscal year to date.

The Las Vegas Strip posted GGR of $646.8 million, down just under 3 percent YoY. That represents the third consecutive monthly decline and the eighth in the last nine months. Following a string of record performances post-Covid, the Strip is -3.3 percent so far in FY25.

Baccarat, a primary indicator of Strip performance, was actually up 41 percent YoY to $108.3 million despite the overall market lag. Even with the strong month, the Strip is down 27 percent on the game over the last three months and 15 percent over the last 12.

Downtown Las Vegas ($83.6 million, +1 percent) and the Las Vegas locals market ($164 million, flat) had average months, whereas other ancillary markets like Boulder, North Las Vegas and Mesquite were all up more than 4 percent. Downtown and the locals market are still up 3 percent and 5.5 percent, respectively, the best of the major markets.

Reno had a strong month at $64.7 million (+9 percent), which was enough to boost Washoe County into the black despite monthly declines in all other county sites.

The same is true for the fiscal year to date, as the county is flat with Reno being the only positive contributor at +2 percent.

Nevada sportsbooks clocked GGR of $42.5 million, a healthy rebound from a dismal March and a 38 percent increase YoY. Of that, $33.1 million came from mobile betting, up 35 percent from last year. March Madness tanked basketball betting in the state, but the NBA playoffs have been kinder. GGR from basketball betting increased 51 percent to $20.9 million in April.

According to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, Las Vegas saw total visitor volume of 3.3 million in April, down 5 percent, despite a 14 percent YoY increase in convention attendance.

Total occupancy was down 1 percent for the city overall and was flat on the Strip, which is in line with many executives’ comments downplaying fears during first-quarter earnings calls. Passenger volume at Harry Reid International Airport slipped 3 percent to 4.7 million. Daily auto traffic across all highways was about 140,000, up 5 percent.

Casino at Nittany Mall to Be Named Happy Valley Casino

SC Gaming LLC, the Pennsylvania company formed by casino operator Ira Lupert that was approved to create a Category 4 “mini-casino” in State College, Pennsylvania, announced the official name and logo of the casino: Happy Valley Casino.

The $120 million casino, under construction at a former Macy’s location at the Nittany Mall close to the Penn State University campus, is slated to open in early 2026.

The contemporary logo design reflects the modern vision and spirit of the future casino, while incorporating visual nods to the iconic valleys and mountains of the region.

“We feel that the name and logo pays homage to the rich history, picturesque landscapes and enduring spirit of the Happy Valley community that we are proud to be a part of,” said Eric Pearson, CEO of SC Gaming.

Local State College company Poole Anderson Construction is the general contractor on the project. “The project is off to a great start, and we’re confident that once it is completed we’ll deliver a premier experience focusing on fun, excitement and hospitality,” said Pearson.

Last summer, Lubert parted ways with his original partner in the project, Bally’s Corp., vowing to use his experience in developing Valley Forge Casino Resort in eastern Pennsylvania to complete the project on his own. However, in January, SC Gaming announced it had entered into a framework agreement with Saratoga Casino Holdings LLC to partner on the State College project, subject to regulatory approval by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board.

Happy Valley Casino will include up to 750 slot machines, 30 table games, a full-service restaurant, and a quick-serve dining option. Those are the maximum allowable gaming stations for a mini-casino under state law. After opening, operators may petition the state to add another 10 table games.

Legionnaires’ Cases Under Investigation in Las Vegas

A total of five cases of Legionnaires’ disease from two Las Vegas properties are under investigation by local health officials, per the Las Vegas Review-Journal. Two came from the South Point casino—one guest visited in February, and the other visited last August, and both have since recovered. The others were from the neighboring Grandview at Las Vegas hotel. Anyone who stayed at the South Point after April 16 and is experiencing symptoms can fill out a health survey from the Southern Nevada Health District.

By Conor Reynolds   Fri, May 30, 2025

Playtech sells HappyBet, Norsk Tipping faces probe for underage transfer, Swedish regulator issues fines over contractor violations and more.

Playtech Sells German B2C Business HappyBet

Playtech has sold its German gambling brand HappyBet to Pferdewetten AG subsidiary NetX Betting.

The new owner is being given the opportunity to contract with franchise partners for the HappyBet shops. These would then operate under Pferdewetten’s Sportwetten.de brand.

The acquisition includes approximately 600 hardware units, including betting terminals and POS systems, according to Frankfurt-listed Pferdewetten.

“We expect a mid-double-digit number of shops to be integrated into our network in the next three months,” said Pierre Hofer, chief executive of Pferdewetten.

Norwegian Authority Investigates Norsk Tipping Minor Funds Transfer

The Norwegian Gambling Authority has requested information from Norsk Tipping following a tip-off that a minor transferred money to the platform.

An underage person reportedly transferred a large sum of money to the platform from their bank account.

“The information so far indicates that there are customers who lend or share their customer account with persons under the age of 18 and that it is not the case that minors have been able to establish customer relationships with Norsk Tipping,” the Norwegian Lottery Authority stated in a release.

The watchdog has warned that the violation in this case could extend to the Gambling Act and Norway’s Money Laundering Act.

Spelinspektionen Fines Political Associations for Lack of Control

Spelinspektionen has fined a number of charity and political organisations in Sweden that operate lotteries for a failure to control contractors.

The regulator fined the Swedish Social Democratic Workers’ Party, the Swedish Social Democratic Youth League and the Swedish Social Democratic Women’s League SEK3 million ($313,615).

An investigation by the Swedish Consumer Agency found that the companies contracted by the licensees had used aggressive business methods while carrying out telephone sales of lottery tickets.

“It is the licensees who have full responsibility for the gaming operations, including the operations entrusted to contractors. The Swedish Consumer Agency’s assessment that the licensees have used aggressive business methods and thereby violated the Marketing Act remains unchanged, despite the licensees having taken corrective measures,” the Swedish gambling authority stated.

Greek Regulator Partners with Health Authority to Tackle Addiction

Greece’s gambling regulator has established a partnership with one of the country’s healthcare authorities in a bid to promote joint action.

A Memorandum of Cooperation has been signed between the Gaming Supervision and Control Committee and the Health Quality Assurance Organisation.

Both agencies said the collaboration is a response to the growing need to address the social and economic impacts of addiction.

They stated they would work together to ensure timely interventions, support treatments and give assistance to individuals or families that are dealing with gambling harm.

Gregory Petts Named Isle of Man GSC Chair

Gregory Petts has been appointed chairman of the Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission.

The appointment comes from the Isle of Man Treasury. Petts, a chartered accountant and auditor with experience in the gambling, finance and life assurance sectors, has been part of the GSC for five years.

Petts replaces longstanding predecessor Jon Allen, who held the role for 15 years until November 2024. David Butterworth has filled the role on an acting basis since Allen’s departure.

“It is essential to strike a balance, maintaining responsible growth of the sector and continuing to uphold a strong regulatory framework,” Petts said. “Maintaining the Isle of Man’s international reputation as a trusted and respected jurisdiction is of the utmost importance.”

By Matt Rybaltowski   Fri, May 30, 2025

Quintenz lays out plans to separate from Kalshi, Indiana updates licensing regs, DraftKings remains lone defendant in MLB case and more.

Quintenz to Resign From Kalshi Board if Confirmed as CFTC Chair

After months of uncertainty regarding his ties to Kalshi, Brian Quintenz finally broke his silence on the matter.

Quintenz, a member of Kalshi’s board of directors, plans to resign from the board if confirmed as chairman of the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission. Kalshi, a leading prediction market, is seeking clarity from the agency on regulations pertaining to sports event contracts. A Republican, Quintenz received a nomination from President Donald Trump to serve as chair of the CFTC in February.

Quintenz made the disclosure in a letter to CFTC Deputy Counsel John Einstman. In addition, Quintenz disclosed in the letter that he holds stock options with Kalshi that vest on a monthly basis. If confirmed, Quintenz wrote that he plans to divest the options no later than 90 days after his confirmation.

“The purpose of this letter is to describe the steps that I will take to avoid any actual or apparent conflict of interest in the event that I am confirmed,” Quintenz wrote. “It is my responsibility to understand and comply with commitments outlined in this agreement.”

A former commissioner with the CFTC, Quintenz penned the letter ahead of the derivative regulator’s conference call on May 29 with a group of tribal gaming entities. In February, a contingent of tribal groups submitted formal comments to the agency stating their opposition to federal regulations on sports derivatives. Regulations on the federal level that allow prediction markets on sports events imperil tribal sovereignty, the groups contend.

Indiana Seeks To Remove “Duplicative” Sports Betting Regulations

One day after taking office in January, Indiana Gov. Mike Braun signed two executive orders aimed at reducing or eliminating burdensome costs for small businesses.

Now, months later, the Indiana Gaming Commission is taking advantage of the orders to ease licensing requirements on sports wagering registrants. Beginning July 1, the IGC will no longer enforce a requirement that sports wagering operators can only conduct business with licensed sports wagering registrants.

The change is expected to save thousands of dollars for market participants collectively. The impact will likely be felt most by payment processors, marketing firms and others that manufacture sports wagering support systems. At the same time, the IGC will eliminate the state’s sports wagering registrant licensure requirement and associated fees, the commission wrote on its website. Since 2020, total fees collected by the IGC have averaged around $60,000 a year, according to IPB News, which first reported the story.

At present, there are nearly 600 companies that are licensed with the state as sports wagering registrants. The commission requires sports wagering service providers to pay a non-refundable licensing fee of $10,000. For sports wagering registrants, the fee is much less at $500 per applicant.

Key persons and substantial owners for SWSPs and registrants will not require licensure, according to the commission. The proposed amendments are pursuant to Executive Order 25-17 on reducing regulation, as well as Executive Order 25-18 on professional licensing deregulation. The new licensing requirements will be implemented pending an administrative change.

DraftKings Lone Defendant Left In MLB Players Union Suit

After reportedly securing settlements with the majority of sportsbook operators in a lengthy name, image and likeness dispute, the MLB players union faces only one remaining hurdle in the months-long litigation.

Last September, MLB Players Inc. filed a lawsuit against DraftKings and bet365 in federal court in Pennsylvania claiming the companies misappropriated the likenesses of hundreds of players without their personal consent. The MLBPI also filed suit against Underdog and FanDuel in New York state court.

Of the four companies, it appears that only litigation against DraftKings remains unsettled. The union dropped a suit against Underdog on May 20, leaving DraftKings as the only company in limbo. On May 27, a federal judge set a deadline on pretrial memos for both sides. The parties have some time, as the deadline will not expire until next April.

In March, U.S. District Judge Karen Marston rejected DraftKings’ motion to dismiss the case. On the same day, reports surfaced that the union dismissed its lawsuit against bet365. Months earlier, FanDuel agreed to a voluntary dismissal of the lawsuit with prejudice. The designation indicates that the suit cannot be refiled.

In the September lawsuit, attorneys for the union argued that DraftKings used the players’ likeness as a mechanism for generating revenue by placing images of the baseball players next to a variety of sports wagers.

“These bettors do not consider a player’s picture when making their bets, as an image cannot convey any relevant statistics about said player or their condition, and therefore does nothing to improve their understanding of the bet and does not impact their decision-making process in any way,” union attorneys wrote.

Earlier this spring, DraftKings filed a motion to certify an order for interlocutory appeal, an appeal that is a non-final order made by a court during ongoing proceedings. In a 14-page brief, Marston applied a four-prong test to evaluate whether the court could certify the order for appeal. The judge found that MLBPI “plausibly alleged” that the sportsbook operator violated the publicity rights of the players, noting that the players’ NIL rights were properly assigned through a sublicensing agreement with the union.

She also analyzed questions on if a cause of action can be dismissed in a “right of publicity” case when there is not a relationship between the parties. While Marston ruled that the question presented a “closer call” for the court, she determined that DraftKings did not establish that an immediate appeal would materially advance the litigation. The judge set a trial date for May 12, 2026.

WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces Notch Partnership With BetMGM

Three years after winning its first title as a WNBA franchise, the Las Vegas Aces secured a partnership this week with a major U.S. sportsbook.

On May 27, BetMGM became the exclusive online casino and sportsbook partner of the Aces, marking the operator’s first partnership with a women’s professional sports franchise. Under the deal, BetMGM will receive commercial inventory on nationally televised games, rights to co-branded content across its digital and social platforms and WNBA tickets for VIP customers.

“This initiative is a beautiful example of what can happen when business, sports and community merge together,” said Nikki Fargas, president of the Aces.

The Aces play their home games at Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, a property that is home to an expansive BetMGM sportsbook. For every steal that the Aces record this season during a home game, the team will donate $50 to The Just One Project, a Las Vegas nonprofit that provides groceries to needy families.

In the relatively near future, BetMGM plans to release a WNBA-branded online slot game in jurisdictions where its iGaming platform is live, the company announced. The product represents BetMGM’s first WNBA online casino game. The partnership will run through 2027.

“As we enter this era of tremendous growth in women’s sports, BetMGM could not have two better organizations to partner with than the WNBA and the Aces,” said BetMGM CEO Adam Greenblatt. “Not only do the Aces play in our backyard at Mandalay Bay, but they share our commitment to giving back to the community.”

By Jess Marquez   Fri, May 30, 2025

Bonta proposes new CA cardroom rules, tribes unsure of CFTC call, Wildhorse details new expansion and more.

California AG Proposes New Cardroom Regs

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has proposed new sets of regulations for the state’s cardrooms that would have an immense impact on operations, at the same time that the state’s gaming tribes are suing the cardrooms over the use of third party player proposition services (TPPPS), which tribes say violate their exclusivity for banked card games.

According to the Sun, the regulations would require player-dealers to be seated at the table, and players would not be able to wager directly against a TPPPS unless they are in the dealer position. Additionally, the player-dealer role would have to rotate once per hour, and TPPPS would be barred from settling any wagers when not occupying said role.

Blackjack would also essentially be banned—not completely, but the new regulations would only allow games that don’t have a “bust” feature and don’t have a non-21 target point. Each game that previously did not comply with the new rules would have to be reapproved by the state.

Per the state’s own Standardized Regulatory Impact Analysis report, the new rules would likely slash cardroom revenue by 50 percent and customer count by 25 percent. Cardrooms would lose nearly $400 million, the state estimated, while tribal casinos would gain some $200 million.

Uncertainty Shrouds Tribal-CFTC Call

Leaders of U.S. tribes active in gaming will take part in a virtual meeting on Thursday with Caroline Pham, acting chair of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. The call is expected to centre around sports event contracts on prediction markets. That’s about all that anyone knows so far, including those involved.

The Indian Gaming Association’s Victor Rocha and Jason Giles held another webinar May 28 in their New Normal series in anticipation of the call. This week’s guests included tribal attorneys Bradley Bledsoe Downes and Joseph Webster, as well as Rodney Butler, chairman of Connecticut’s Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, one of the biggest and most influential gaming tribes in the U.S.

The quintet agreed that what they’ll hear on the May 29 call is almost a complete unknown. Previously, the CFTC had scheduled an all-day event with multiple participants in Washington, DC on 30 April.

Nothing about that meeting, including the date, was ever publicly confirmed. The only thing that was confirmed was the cancellation of the event beforehand, with no explanation offered. News of the new, tribal-only call came as a surprise when it was first reported by InGame earlier this month.

“There hasn’t been much information other than an invitation,” Downes lamented. “I feel like this is at best a courtesy.”

Butler offered comments regarding prediction markets that were noteworthy, given that he is among the most powerful tribal leaders to speak directly on the issue thus far. His tribe and the Mohegan Tribe are compacted with the state of Connecticut for gaming exclusivity.

The two groups have so far given the state billions of dollars in revenue, but those agreements, as well as similar ones in other states, could be in jeopardy if the rise of prediction markets is not curbed.

“It’s really simple: They’re violating our agreements, they’re violating our compacts that we’ve worked very hard for…. It just completely circumvents that government-to-government relationship,” Butler said.

So far, Connecticut has not been among the litany of states that have sent cease-and-desist orders or entered into lawsuits with prediction markets such as Kalshi and Crypto.com. Butler mentioned that the state’s attorney general and Department of Consumer Protection are looking into the matter and “will weigh in” at some point.

“We have a very lucrative agreement for exclusivity in Connecticut, and many tribes have that throughout the country and that will be impacted immediately,” he said.

Panelists spent time analyzing the CFTC, a federal agency perhaps getting more attention than it ever has due to prediction markets. Historically, the commodities and derivatives markets have been niche and largely tied to agriculture. Rocha jokingly referred to the commission as the “orange juice police.”

The idea of the CFTC now becoming a de facto national sports betting regulator is worrisome, including potentially for the commission itself. When the commission was appealing election betting under the Biden administration, it cited a lack of desire to police these new markets. The appeal was dropped this year after President Donald Trump took office.

“I don’t think anyone ever predicted, no pun intended, that there would be sports betting under the guise of prediction markets,” Downes said.

Wildhorse Casino Announces Details of $100 Million Expansion

Oregon’s Wildhorse Resort & Casino May 28 announced the first round of details for a $100 million expansion of the property that is slated to be completed in 2027. The expansion is expected to include a new, 214-room hotel tower, a 15,000-square-foot convention center and a new restaurant. More details about the expansion will be released as time goes on,officials said.

“We want to create more memorable experiences through forward-thinking investments in areas that impact our guests as soon as they walk in our doors,” CEO Gary E. George said in a statement. “A consistent, high-quality casino experience is the difference for consumers and the region.”

Wind River Names New CEO

Wyoming’s Wind River Hotel and Casino has named Jenni Wildcat as its next CEO, following the departure of former CEO Patrick Leckrone. Leckrone was at the center of a bizarre saga from last year in which the Northern Arapaho’s tribal council directed its business arm to fire him, to which the business refused. His departure came days before another tribal meeting on the matter was scheduled.

“The Wind River Reservation is my home and where I’ve chosen to raise my family,” Wildcat said in a statement. “I feel blessed with the opportunity to lead the Northern Arapaho gaming enterprise and Wind River Hotel and Casino, which is such an important community gathering spot and economic engine.”

By Marjorie Preston   Fri, May 30, 2025

Crime spikes in Macau, Thai PM proposes new budget, RWS unveils new aquarium and more.

Macau Sees Spike in Gaming-Related Crime
For Q1, law enforcement in Macau filed 567 criminal incident reports, up 61.5 percent over the first quarter of 2024. Much of the increase has been linked to the recent criminalization of unlicensed currency exchanges.

Last June, Beijing launched a crackdown on illicit money changers, who help gamblers sidestep government controls on capital flight. Last October, the Macau Legislative Assembly passed legislation making violating rules on money exchanges a crime.

The Ministry of Public Security contends the exchanges facilitate money laundering and lead to “fights, fraud, thefts, illegal immigration and other crimes” including kidnapping and murder. Hence the amended Law on Combating Gambling Crimes, which includes prison terms of up to five years for offenders. Convictions could lead to a 10-year ban from city casinos.

The rise in criminal incidents occurred despite a drop in the total number of casinos, reported Macau Business, from 40 in 2019 to just 30 today. The surge in the use of money changers coincided with the shift in the VIP business, including the near-elimination of the junket trade.

China’s State Administration of Foreign Exchange now limits overseas withdrawals from Chinese banks to just CNY100,000 ($14,000) per year – pocket change for whales who don’t blink at playing $25,000 a hand.

Thai PM Proposes Budget, Eyes Stability Amid Trade Wars
On May 28, Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra proposed a multibillion-dollar budget designed to offset the impact of US tariff hikes on the economy.

Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra this week presented a THB3.78 trillion ($168.3 billion) budget she said will “revive and drive the economy towards sustainable growth while improving the quality of life for the people.

“Given the constraints on revenue and the global economic situation,” she said, “the government is pursuing a deficit policy to maintain economic stability.”

According to the Singapore Business Times, the budget projects a 0.7 percent rise in spending and a 0.7 percent drop in the deficit to TBH860 billion. It forecasts growth ranging from 2.3 percent to 3.3 percent, with inflation of 0.5 percent to 1.5 percent.

A February report by the National Economic and Social Development Council warned lawmakers to brace for policy shifts from key trading partners, especially the US, Thailand’s leading source of export goods. US tariffs could reach 36 percent if a deal isn’t made by the end of July.

Meanwhile, the Pattaya Mail reports that tourism in the country took a big dive after the March earthquake that killed more than 1,600 people. Potential visitors have also been scared off by the abduction of Chinese actor Wang Xing. In January, Wang travelled to Thailand to audition for a film. Instead, he was abducted and taken to Myawadday, Myanmar, a border town known as a hub of online scams, illegal online gambling and human rights abuses.

Wang was rescued, but the incident has shaken the confidence of Chinese nationals who make up most of the tourism trade to Thailand. To date, international travel to Thailand has dropped 1.04 percent year on year, a loss of almost 13 million visitors.

These factors may make Thailand’s controversial Entertainment Complex Bill more appealing to lawmakers. The legislation was designed to “increase the efficiency of tourism and promote investment,” Thailand’s government said in a January statement. “It will also have a positive effect on society in the future as a whole.”

Will Marine Attraction Increase Footfall at Resorts World Sentosa?
Singapore’s Resorts World Sentosa will open its new Singapore Oceanarium on 23 July, part of an ongoing multi-year expansion project.

In 2019, Singapore guaranteed exclusive rights to gaming to RWS and rival Marina Bay Sands through 2030. The resorts agreed to invest about S$9 billion ($7 billion) in non-gaming to grow tourism in the republic.

But in a hiccup for RWS, last November regulators extended its license for just two years instead of the typical three, after an independent panel questioned its ability to “develop, maintain and promote its integrated resort as a compelling tourist destination.”

Genting Singapore Secretary Liew Lan Hing promised a “transformation” of the property to “to deepen its destination appeal.” Singapore Oceanarium is part of that plan. So are other attractions such as Universal Studios’ Illumination’s Minion Land, which debuted in February, and the all-suite Laurus Hotel, which will open later this year.

RWS posted revenue of S$626.2 million in the first quarter, down 20 percent year-on-year, although up 2 percent from the prior quarter. Nomura analysts Tushar Mohata and Alpa Aggarwal anticipate continuing sluggishness in the second quarter but expect earnings to ramp up as new attractions are completed.

Genting Singapore has more additions in the works. It has broken ground on a waterfront complex that will add two more hotels, a retail and dining district and a 290-foot light sculpture.

Vietnamese, Laotian Police Bust Major Online Gambling Ring
A sting by Vietnamese and Lao police brought down a major online gambling ring, which reportedly generated thousands of bets worth millions of dollars.

Vietnam’s Ministry of Public Security said participants wagered almost VND1.3 trillion (US$50 million) in the racket, allegedly led by Mai Anh Viet of Hanoi and Nyugen Huu Son of Ho Chi Minh City.

According to VN Express, police seized 35 mobile phones and 37 desktop and laptop computers during raids in Laos. On May 19, Lao authorities handed over 29 Vietnamese suspects along with all confiscated devices and documents to Vietnamese police.

So far, 31 people have been charged: 27 organizers and four gamblers. The investigation continues.

By Kyle Goldsmith   Fri, May 30, 2025

Brazil sees new ad restrictions, Chile casinos report Q1 drop, Coljuegos proposes new international regulator and more.

Brazil Senate’s Approval of Ad Restrictions Sparks Backlash

The Brazilian Senate has approved a number of new measures to restrict gambling advertising, sparking industry concern over how the changes could benefit the black market.

On May 28, the Sports Commission approved measures to ban celebrity endorsements, introduce advertising curfews and restrict sports sponsorships.

The Senate then also voted to approve the measures, with the bill now set to go to the Chamber of Deputies. If it’s also approved there, the measures are expected to take effect in 2026.

In response, the Brazilian Institute for Responsible Gaming outlined it was deeply concerned by the developments, stating on social media: “The proposal weakens communication between legalized betting companies and bettors, compromising the sustainability of a regulated sector committed to responsible gaming.”

Chile Land-Based Casinos Report Revenue Drop in Q1

The Superintendency of Gaming Casinos in Chile has reported a 3.7 percent year-on-year decline in Q1 gross revenue from land-based casinos.

Chile’s 25 licensed casinos generated CLP145.19 billion ($154.3 million) in Q1, marking a 1 percent nominal increase, but a 3.7 percent real-term decline when adjusted for inflation against Q1 2024.

Tax contributions from land-based casinos in Q1 also dropped 3.4 percent in real terms to CLP51.96 billion.

Cecilia Valdés, president of the Chilean Association of Casinos and Gaming, told iGB land-based casinos still play a pivotal role in Chile, describing them as a “key driver” for local economies.

Esportes Gaming Brasil Recruits Baungartner to Drive Growth in Brazil

Esportes Gaming Brasil, parent company of Esportes da Sorte and Onabet, has appointed Hugo Baungartner as chief business officer and executive director for institutional relations and strategic partnerships.

Baungartner’s new role will involve working on high-priority regulatory and institutional matters, including representing the group when meeting with industry stakeholders such as the Secretariat of Prizes and Bets and Central Bank of Brazil.

In an exclusive interview with iGB, Baungartner said he was attracted to Esportes Gaming Brasil by its strategic positioning and commitment to regulatory compliance.

“Brazil’s current market environment demands prepared and responsible players and Esportes Gaming Brasil is one of the leading names shaping this new landscape,” Baungartner told iGB. “The group is clearly in a phase of consolidation and expansion.”

Colombian Regulator Proposes Ibero-American Betting Commission

Marco Emilio Hincapié, president of the Colombian gambling regulator Coljuegos, has proposed the creation of an Ibero-American commission on betting.

Speaking at the Ibero-American Gaming Summit in Peru, Hincapié invited regulators from 10 countries to create an international commission, with the aim of bringing together regulatory bodies.

The commission would aim to unify regulatory criteria, promote responsible gambling and combat illegality, as well as sharing experiences with countries beginning their regulatory processes.

Hincapié said: “We have proposed creating the Ibero-American Commission of Regulators, with the goal of joining forces and making joint decisions that will allow us to strengthen the legal industry and share experiences in regulatory matters.”

CPI Chief Links Sector’s Problems to Bolsonaro Administration

Senator Soraya Thronicke, rapporteur of the Parliamentary Inquiry Commission on betting in Brazil, contends the country’s current gambling issues stem from inaction during Jair Bolsonaro’s administration.

In December 2018, outgoing President Michel Temer signed legislation which gave way to sports betting regulations in Brazil, but during Bolsonaro’s time in charge, little progress was made.

Thronicke believes current issues with Brazilian gambling, including fears over addiction levels and debt, can be attributed to the lack of action made by Bolsonaro’s government to properly regulate gambling.

“From Jan. 1, 2019, to Dec. 31, 2022, who was the president? Jair Messias Bolsonaro,” Thronicke said. “And it was at that time that Brazil took first place in the world ranking for the number of bets, the number of bettors. So they let it run wild.”

By Frank Legato   Fri, May 30, 2025

The latest announcements from Merkur, Light & Wonder, Zitro and more.

Merkur Group to be Licensed in Nevada, Will Acquire Gaming Arts

Merkur Gaming US, a subsidiary of the German-based Merkur Group, has been granted a license to manufacture and distribute its gaming products in the state of Nevada.

In addition, the Nevada Gaming Commission has approved Merkur’s acquisition of Gaming Arts LLC, a licensed Nevada-based gaming operator headquartered in Las Vegas and a trusted strategic partner of the German gaming specialist. It is anticipated that the transaction will close in early Q3 2025.

In addition to obtaining the license, the approval for the acquisition of Gaming Arts LLC represents another pivotal key element for the Merkur Group in officially re-entering the North American market as a certified manufacturer. The two companies have enjoyed a strategic partnership that has already yielded mutually beneficial synergies.

“The close and constructive partnership with Gaming Arts LLC has significantly contributed over the past months to successfully establishing all necessary prerequisites for the licensing as well as the upcoming acquisition,” said Lars Felderhoff, chairman of the Merkur Group. “We are deeply grateful for the excellent cooperation.”

Caesars Entertainment Launches Online Exclusive Title with
Light & Wonder

Caesars Entertainment announced the launch of a major exclusive online casino game in partnership with Light & Wonder on its online casino platforms in New Jersey, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Ontario. Ultimate Fire Link Cash Falls by the Bay combines two slot brands, Ultimate Fire Link and Cash Falls, and is now live for online casino players across Caesars Palace Online Casino, Horseshoe Online Casino and Caesars Sportsbook & Casino.

Players on these online casino platforms can now enjoy early access to the new game, which includes a unique blend of features and engaging game play. In addition, Caesars will be hosting a select group of VIP Caesars Rewards members in Atlantic City in celebration of the debut. The company also is running a wide range of omnichannel promotions across its brick-and-mortar casinos and digital platforms in all jurisdictions where the game is live, excluding Ontario. Offers range from special cash bonuses to the chance to win a BMW X3 via a giveaway taking place in New Jersey.

Light & Wonder’s Ultimate Fire Link and Cash Falls are among the most popular slot games on casino floors at Caesars Rewards destinations across North America.

Zitro Supplies Mexico’s Casino La Cima

Casino La Cima in Mérida, Yucatán, is now home to Zitro’s new Concept cabinets, marking a significant milestone in an ongoing collaboration with Grupo Same, one of Mexico’s most prestigious operators.

The Concept cabinets feature the Magic Lighting system, which syncs lights and sound with game play for a fully immersive experience, and the largest Screen Deck button panel on the market, offering comfort and ease of use for players and operators.

This launch is backed by some of Zitro’s most successful titles—Fortune Legacy, Legendary Sword and King Fu Frog, all known for engaging mechanics and strong performance.

In a separate release, Zitro announced it has achieved a new certification in its commitment to sustainability: the ISO 14064-1 standard, which manages the improvement of its corporate carbon footprint. After successfully completing the certification process, the company now holds this accreditation that supports the management of its greenhouse gas emissions across all its global locations.

JCM Global Installs Towering Digital Signage at Chinook Winds

JCM Global announced the installation of a towering new digital signage solution at Chinook Winds Casino Resort in Lincoln City, Oregon. The digital signage frames the entrance of the casino’s high-limit area and creates a stunning visual destination that transforms the casino floor.

Specifically, JCM installed three curved 2.5mm FLEX LITE-S solutions. The two pillars each measure nearly 8 feet high by 7 feet wide, and they connect to an overhead soffit that is nearly 24 feet wide and 5 feet high. The entire solution is programmable and can display different content for each piece of digital signage or showcase one video across all three signs.

The dynamic digital signage replaced static wood pillars and can feature a range of messaging, images, and video limited only by the imagination. This is the first digital signage project JCM has installed at Chinook Winds. The casino also has JCM GEN5 thermal printers on each of its slot machines.

IGT PlayDigital Debuts Mega Vault

International Game Technology PLC announced the launch of IGT PlayDigital’s Mega Vault offering, a new innovation on its player engagement solution. Powered by the IGT PlayDigital Engagement Platform, a customizable suite of player engagement tools, Mega Vault brings together its engagement tools—Prize Drops, Leaderboards, Marketing Jackpots, and more—into a single promotional experience.

Designed to maximize excitement, engagement and rewards, Mega Vault aims to deliver seamless high-impact campaigns that drive long-term retention.

This rollout of the Mega Vault promotional brand also includes a new functionality within the Engagement Platform toolset. PlayDigital customers can now combine the existing tools within the Engagement Platform tool kit, unlocking the ability to run one-of-a-kind promotions and create unlimited promotional possibilities. The first of these combined functionalities includes the Multi Drop and Leaderboard tools, allowing operators to simultaneously engage and reward their players.

AGS Named ‘Best to Work For’

AGS, a global gaming supplier known for its high-performing slot, table and interactive products, announced it has been named one of the “Best and Brightest Companies to Work For” in the nation and in Atlanta for the ninth consecutive year.

Presented by the National Association for Business Resources (NABR), the Best and Brightest Companies to Work For awards are based on an independent research-driven assessment of company practices and employee survey results. Companies are evaluated across a comprehensive set of criteria that reflect the employee experience—spanning areas like compensation and benefits, engagement and retention, civility and inclusion, leadership, communication, and overall workplace well-being.

AGS earned high marks for its focus on key areas such as benefits, wellness, community involvement and workplace creativity—surpassing the Best and Brightest benchmark, which reflects the median score of peer companies in the same market.

“These awards are more than plaques on a wall—they’re proof of the incredible team we’ve built,” said AGS President and Chief Executive Officer David Lopez. “Our people are the engine behind everything we do, and the culture we’ve created together continues to be one of the things I’m most proud of.”

Habitus Design Group Completes the First Five-Star Integrated Resort in Manila

The final phase of Solaire North, the Philippines’ first five-star integrated resort, is now complete. Designed as an urban oasis with a sophisticated sense of place, every interior space of this award-winning project in Quezon, the largest city in Metropolitan Manila, was planned, designed, orchestrated and delivered by internationally renowned designer Samantha Drummond, and her company, Habitus Design Group (HDG).

The new property is a luxury destination meant to set a new benchmark in the region, elevate the local economy and re-energize the potential for local and international tourism in Quezon City, the largest city in Metropolitan Manila.

Habitus Design Group was appointed in 2018 as specialists in managing the design of highly complex, large volume spaces requiring connectivity and adjacencies combined with a luxurious, creative aesthetic to work with a scheme for a vertical building of 38 stories designed by international architectural firm Aedas.

The interior plan includes 530 guestrooms and suites, 14 dining options, bars & lounges, a ballroom, conference and meeting rooms, a spa and gymnasium, pools and a kids club, as well as a high-end retail avenue and four gaming levels.