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Tag: Casino

  • Wyoming Senate Advances Bills to Tighten Gambling Rules

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    Lawmakers in Wyoming, US, took another step Friday toward tightening gambling regulations, advancing two bills aimed at closing loopholes and limiting gambling machines in everyday places like grocery stores.

    Closing the “Social Relationship” Loophole

    Senate File 44 focuses on what some call the “social relationship” loophole. Under current law, gambling is mostly illegal, but friends can play certain games privately without breaking the rules. 

    Lawmakers and law enforcement, however, have said some operators have exploited that exception, running what are essentially professional poker rooms under the guise of social clubs.

    “The goal was to improve the definition of what friends are,” said Sen. John Kolb, the Rock Springs Republican who led the interim committee on gaming. “Frankly, you can’t be friends for the sole purpose of wanting to gamble.”

    The bill clarifies that legal social games must involve only natural persons playing privately, without anyone being paid to host or organize the event. Supporters argue this would make it easier to take action against businesses disguising professional operations as friendly gatherings.

    Some raised concerns that the changes could unintentionally affect nonprofits or fraternal organizations. 

    Nick Larramendy, executive director of the Wyoming Gaming Commission, reassured lawmakers that traditional charitable games like raffles, bingo, and pull-tabs would largely be unaffected, pointing out that certain “raffles” have been used to front illegal gambling. He cited the Queen of Hearts game as an example. 

    Mike Moser of the Wyoming State Liquor Association said he supported the bill overall but worried about overly strict enforcement that could penalize innocent clubs renting a room for a card game.

    Removing Skill Games from Grocery Stores

    The second measure, Senate File 46, targets skill-based gambling machines in grocery stores and other everyday locations. 

    Under the bill, these machines would be limited to licensed liquor establishments, truck stops, and smoke shops. 

    Any machines already in grocery stores may continue operating until their current permits expire, after which they would no longer be permitted. Lawmakers expressed concerns regarding minors accessing these machines and the rapid growth of gambling in non-adult spaces.

    Both bills passed the Senate Revenue Committee, with SF 44 approved 4-0 and SF 46 passing 3-1, the lone no vote coming from Sen. Troy McKeown, who has a conflict of interest as a liquor license holder. 

    SF 44 would take effect July 1, 2026, while SF 46 could become law immediately if it passes the full legislative process.

    Both bills now head to the full Senate, where lawmakers will debate and vote on them before they move to the House.

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    Melanie Porter

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  • Cali Judge Sentences Men Who Robbed Illegal Gambling Den to Decades, Centuries in Prison

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    The robbery of an illegal gambling house in Sacramento should not have been the type of crime that elicits the most serious ramifications from the courts, but in the case of repeat offenders John Edward Blount and Eddie Lee White, the act has become their undoing.

    Illegal Gambling Dine Robbery Ends up with Centuries of Prison Sentences

    In a judgment rendered by Sacramento County Superior Court Judge Michael Sweet, White will have to serve 40 years and eight months behind bars, with Blount to spend 301 years (to life) away.

    The violent home invasion targeted a south Sacramento residence on the 3700 block of 42nd Avenue that was operating as an illegal gambling den. According to prosecutors, the incident unfolded around 1:20 am on January 22, 2018, when at least four individuals stormed into the garage of the property.

    Judge Sweet is following the law rather than misinterpreting it, as both men have previous convictions and have broken the Three Strikes law that is applied indiscriminately in the state.

    Blount faced particularly severe sentencing exposure due to prior convictions that qualified as “strikes” under California law, significantly enhancing his punishment. White also had a criminal history that contributed to the length of his sentence. Judge Sweet cited the violence of the robbery, the defendants’ records, and multiple sentencing enhancements when imposing the lengthy terms.

    The pair was sentenced on Tuesday, February 10, after Blount and White were found guilty of six and three counts of robbery and attempted robbery, respectively, back in November.

    A jury on November 21, 2025, convicted both men, with Blount additionally found guilty of being a felon in possession of a firearm, according to a Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office press release.

    Three Strikes and You Go Away for Good

    The original crime dates back to January 2018, but it has taken until now to resolve. Interestingly, when the robbery was underway, a woman responsible for the CCTV at the venue did phone in 911, reporting the crime, and thus giving away the whereabouts of the illegal gambling den as well.

    During the break-in, prosecutors said the men were armed, and multiple victims were held at gunpoint, forced to the ground, physically assaulted, and even had furniture thrown at them. Investigators later recovered a firearm believed to have been used in the robbery and found two suspects carrying many of the victims’ belongings, while other assailants fled as deputies arrived.

    The case spanned nearly eight years, from the 2018 attack to last fall’s trial, concluding this week with the heavy sentences handed down by the court.

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    Jerome García

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  • Files Reveal Special Treatment for Epstein During 2013 Vegas Trip

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    Released US Justice Department documents shed new light on how Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier, received treatment during a brief stay in Las Vegas in 2013. These records suggest he enjoyed extensive hospitality, despite his earlier conviction for sex offenses.

    Internal Messages Show Caesars Entertainment Hosted Epstein Group as VIP Guests

    Reporters who examined internal communications found that the trip was presented as a belated birthday celebration. Staff at Caesars Entertainment set up several rooms, meal plans, and show access for Epstein’s party, as reported by The Las Vegas Review-Journal. They secured prime seats and top-tier loyalty benefits given to big spenders. Emails also show that they got tickets to a Rod Stewart concert, though the group said no to a backstage meeting due to time constraints.

    Records indicate that Leon Black, a billionaire investor with Apollo Global Management, might have paid for at least some of the trip. Communications between assistants mentioned charges on Black’s account and called the outing an Epstein birthday present. A spokesperson later claimed Black could not recall covering any entertainment costs.

    The records also show that Epstein’s circle sometimes used his connections to get into events in Las Vegas even when he was not there. Messages reveal help in getting tickets for Celine Dion and Penn and Teller shows, plus a Cirque performance at Mandalay Bay.

    Released Files Renew Scrutiny of Epstein’s Network and Travel

    The 2013 trip lasted just over a day. Epstein flew in on his private plane, booked a fancy room, and made plans for dinner and a conference. His team asked the hotel staff to help get passes for the yearly DEF CON event. They wanted to skip the long lines. Records show Epstein wanted to meet tech people at the event.

    Las Vegas police said they did not find any crime reports linked to Epstein in their city. However, the new information shows how easy his travel was years after he was found guilty in Florida. The pile of files came out because of growing political pressure and new laws about being open. Now people are looking harder at who Epstein knew and how he spent his money.

    While the papers do not prove for sure who went on the trip, they show how much access and pull Epstein had with rich friends and hotel bosses. People looking into this and reporters are still going through the millions of files that came out. They want to get a better idea of who Epstein knew and how those connections affected where he went and who he hung out with in the years before he died in 2019.

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    Silvia Pavlof

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  • Plan for Fairfax County casino project passes Virginia Senate, heads to House of Delegates – WTOP News

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    After a 23-14 vote, the measure will now head to the Virginia House of Delegates. A similar proposal passed the Senate last year, but didn’t make it out of a House subcommittee.

    A proposal to bring a casino and entertainment district to Northern Virginia passed the state’s senate Friday, even as some Fairfax County leaders and residents criticized the idea.

    After a 23-14 vote, the measure will now head to the Virginia House of Delegates. A similar proposal passed the Senate last year, but didn’t make it out of a House subcommittee.

    The move is the latest in the yearslong effort to bring a casino to Fairfax County. Lawmakers supporting the measure tout the potential for revenue, while residents and local leaders have worried about traffic and infrastructure needs.

    Citing a 2019 report from Virginia’s Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee, Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell said the project would generate “more revenue than all the other casinos we’ve authorized in Virginia combined.”

    “That’s just not revenue for Northern Virginia, it’s revenue for the entire state,” Surovell said. “And this has been studied. It was looked at.”

    The casino project would have to be at least 1.5 million square feet, and after a change this week, could be built anywhere in Fairfax County. The 2025 version of the legislation focused on Tysons.

    While the casino has been a focal point of the conversation, Surovell said the plan could also include a concert venue, conference venue, hotel entertainment district and IMAX center for sporting events, “which is typically how projects of that size are designed and constructed.”

    If approved in the House, the plan would be put in front of voters to consider.

    Fairfax County’s Board of Supervisors voted to leave a casino project out of their legislative priorities for the 2026 session, and several Northern Virginia state senators voted against the idea Friday.

    Sen. Barbara Favola, for one, said the plan “is not fully cooked. It is not the right thing to do.”

    “The Board of Supervisors has not even had a robust conversation on this,” Favola said. “They have decided that the planning effort, the effort that the locality would have to put forth regarding public infrastructure, safety questions, transportation and even national security issues, far outweigh the desirability of engaging in this conversation.”

    Sen. Adam Ebbin, meanwhile, said the measure would be “a significant departure from past practice. The host locality, Fairfax County, is not asking for this authority.”

    And, Sen. Jennifer Boysko added, “I go to the grocery store, I am stopped by my constituents. I have gone to the doctor. I have been stopped by my doctor when I was having a sick visit, who said, ‘Please do not bring a casino here. We don’t need it.’”

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    © 2026 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

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    Scott Gelman

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  • Wynn Resorts Reports Strong Operational Results for Q4 2025

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    Wynn Resorts, Limited has reported its Q4 2025 results, which ended on December 31, 2025. The company confirmed that revenue had increased ever-so-slightly to $1.87 billion in the quarter compared to $1.84 billion in Q4 2024. 

    Wynn Resorts on Track for Middle-East Casino Resort Launch 

    The net income attributable to Wynn Resorts, Limited was $100 million in the quarter, below the $277 million of attributable income in Q4 2024. Commenting on these and other financial performance markets, Wynn Resorts, Limited CEO Craig Billings had this to add:

    “Our fourth quarter results reflect continued strength throughout the business and ongoing progress in our global development initiatives. The team in Las Vegas delivered another quarter of healthy EBITDA, highlighted by year-on-year improvement in ADRs and strong volumes in the casino.”

    Billings also spoke of the performance results in Macau, which saw a substantial increase in VIP turnover as well as mass table drop – both sequentially and year-on-year.

    The executive also confirmed that the opening of Wynn Al Marjan Island for the first quarter of 2027 was well on track. 

    Results in Las Vegas and Encore Boston Harbor saw slight decreases in terms of operating revenues, whereas the company’s Macau operations continued to gain with increases in operating revenues at both Wynn Palace and Wynn Macau.

    Wynn also reported on its balance sheet, which was in good standing, saying that the company had cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2025, totalling $1.46 billion, excluding $601.8 million of short-term investment held by Wynn Macau, Limited. 

    The company recently set up a $2-million scholarship fund for the children of employees pursuing a degree.

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    Mike Johnson

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  • Michigan Gov. Whitmer Proposes Online Casino Tax Hike

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    Earlier this week, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer proposed increasing the state’s highest online casino tax rate by eight percentage points to 36% as part of her Fiscal Year 2027 budget.

    Governor Proposes Tax Increase

    Her proposal also includes a widely criticized per-wager surcharge on mobile sports betting, mirroring the structure adopted in Illinois. Under the plan, operators would pay 25 cents on each of the first 20 million bets placed, and 50 cents on every wager beyond that threshold. It is expected that Whitmer’s proposal for a per-wager surcharge is projected to raise $38.8 million in revenue for the state.

    Currently, Michigan online operators pay monthly progressive rates ranging from 20% to 28% based on adjusted gross revenue (AGR) figures. The first $4 million AGR is taxed at a 20% rate before increases of two percentage points at $8, $10, and $12 million. Operators then pay the cap of 28% rate on all winnings when they exceed $12 million. According to the General Briefing Papers, only three operators – FanDuel, BetMGM, and DraftKings – surpassed the threshold last year that triggers the top 28% tax rate on adjusted gross revenue exceeding $12 million. However, some mid-tier operators, such as BetRivers, began consistently exceeding that mark in 2025.

    It should also be noted that with Gov. Whitmer‘s proposal, nearly all Michigan iGaming operators would lose the ability to deduct promotional credits from gross revenue starting in 2027, which would mark their sixth year of operations for most. Original licensees can deduct up to 4% this year, down from 6% in 2025 and 10% from launch in 2021 through 2024.

    Could Illinois Be a Warning for this New Policy?

    The new proposal is notable given the strong backlash and subsequent year-over-year decline in betting volume seen in neighboring Illinois. There, sportsbooks reported their steepest monthly drop in handle since the surcharge was implemented, with wagering falling nearly 25% in December after declines of more than 15% in September, October, and November.

    The proposal also follows a year in which Michigan’s sports betting handle was essentially flat. In 2025, total wagers reached $5.54 billion, an increase of just 0.6% compared to 2024. By comparison, Illinois posted 11.6% year-over-year growth to $15.65 billion, even amid its recent slowdown in betting activity. Despite that growth, however, Illinois is reconsidering its gambling tax policy right now. If the state does so, it would essentially confirm the operator’s warnings that higher taxes on gambling would have a negative effect on betting.

    But back to Michigan, it should be noted that these effects might not be as severe as in Illinois, as Michigan operators, though, only pay 8.4% in state taxes on AGR, which is among the lowest in the US. Therefore, an increase in the gambling tax, while it might lead to a decrease in overall bets, might not lead to a very large decline in operator revenue.

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    Stefan Velikov

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  • Catawba Indians to build $120 million thoroughbred racetrack near $1B NC casino

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    The Catawba Indians plan to expand their gaming operations with a $120 million thoroughbred racing track beside their $1 billion North Carolina casino, tribal officials said in laying out a business plan for the new venture on tribal social media this week.

    “Expanding into horse racing represents a natural evolution of our gaming enterprise,” officials with the Rock Hill-based tribe said.

    Two Kings Horse Racing Track would be developed over five years, 2026 to 2030, creating 250 to 350 permanent jobs and $42 million to $58 million in projected revenue in its fifth year, according to the plan.

    With the nearest major racing tracks at least 150 miles away, “North Carolina represents an underserved market for horse racing entertainment,” officials said.

    Virginia has nearest horse race betting track to NC

    The closest major parimutuel betting horse racing track to North Carolina appears to be Colonial Downs Racetrack in New Kent, Virginia. That’s east of Richmond and nearly 200 miles northeast of Raleigh-Durham.

    An N.C. House bill ratified in 2023 legalized parimutuel betting. Applications for licenses to offer and accept such bets are not yet authorized, however, as the N.C. State Lottery Commission continues to work on a pari-mutuel wagering program.

    The Catawba said they would seek partnership opportunities with the North Carolina lottery for simulcast racing.

    “Substantial employment opportunities

    The track would operate under the authority of the federal Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, which Congress enacted in 1988 to regulate gaming on Indian lands.

    Tribal gaming authority and communications officials didn’t immediately reply to requests for comment from The Charlotte Observer this week.

    In their business plan, tribal officials say the “state-of-the-art” track “will diversify our gaming portfolio, create substantial employment opportunities and generate significant revenue for tribal programs and economic development.”

    The track would have an existing customer base in the 300,000-plus annual Two Kings Casino visitors, officials said. The permanent casino is rising off Interstate 85 exit 5 in Kings Mountain, about 35 miles west of Charlotte.

    The first part of the Catawba Indians’ $1 billion casino will open over the next two months, Chief Brian Harris said in a recent online update of tribal construction projects.

    The first-floor introductory casino will include 1,350 slot machines, 22 table games, a 68-seat restaurant, an 18-seat bar, sports betting kiosks and a rewards desk, tribal officials said during a “topping off” ceremony for the $1 billion casino in October.

    The introductory casino will replace the current, single-story one that opened in July 2021. The trailers make up the existing casino.

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  • Bally’s Dover Casino Sees Man Arrested on Drug and Human Trafficking Suspicions

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    On January 16, the Dover Police Department arrested Antwan Freeman, 44, of Dover, on drug and human trafficking charges at the Bally’s Dover Casino Resort in Delaware after responding to calls of a physical altercation.

    Police Arrest Suspect at a Bally’s Dover Casino Hotel Room

    Police said Freeman was taken into custody without incident, but further investigation revealed disturbing details of the suspects’ alleged crimes. According to the police, Freeman was trafficking a woman who was present in the room at the time of the arrest.

    In addition to that, police said they had discovered 10.1 grams of crack cocaine, 3.63 grams of heroin/fentanyl, 57.6 grams of PCP, 19 doses of alprazolam, crack cocaine manufacturing equipment, and $465 in suspected drug proceeds.

    He was charged with possession with intent to deliver various illegal substances, trafficking an individual, and human trafficking involving sexual servitude. The last charge applies when a person is forced, defrauded, or coerced into engaging in commercial sex acts.

    Police said Freeman was committed to Sussex Correctional Institution after bail was set at $130,200, which was to be paid in cash.

    Bally’s Dover Casino Resort, the scene of the arrest, is a hotel, casino, and racetrack complex located in Dover, Delaware. The property features a 0.625-mile harness racing track encircled by the 1-mile concrete Dover Motor Speedway, which hosts NASCAR racing events. Freeman was arrested in one of the 500 rooms of the venue. 

    It additionally includes more than 2,700 slot machines, 40 table games, and the Rollins Center, which is an 18,000-square-foot multipurpose ballroom used for business conferences, conventions, etc. The complex is owned by Gaming and Leisure Properties and operated by Bally’s Corporation, while the motor racing circuit is owned by Speedway Motorsports. 

    Speaking of Bally’s operations, the company recently revealed details about its Las Vegas project, which will be a large multi-use property featuring a casino, hotel, theater, shopping space, and dining area.

    Delaware Requires Casinos to Raise Awareness About Human Trafficking

    But back to Freeman’s case, the human trafficking charges might be the biggest problem he will face. He is potentially looking at decades in prison if convicted on all charges. In Delaware, human trafficking for commercial sex is classified as a Class C felony, or a Class B felony if the victim is a minor.

    State law also mandates that Delaware’s three casinos, including Bally’s, display informational signs to raise awareness about human trafficking. According to the state’s law, Casinos are required to prominently display public awareness signs in all public restrooms, staff breakrooms, and lobbies, ensuring they are clearly visible to everyone to raise awareness on the issue.

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    Stefan Velikov

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  • Macau’s Casino Industry Shifts to a More Mature Era of Growth

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    Macau’s gambling sector is facing a new reality. After years defined by explosive growth, abrupt collapse during the pandemic, and gradual recovery once borders reopened, the region’s industry may be entering a more mature phase. Operators must now adapt to slower revenue growth, tighter regulation, and a shifting customer base.

    Macau Now Relies on High-Spending Mass Customers

    Analysts from S&P Global Ratings reported that Macau has entered a new growth phase following the region’s post-pandemic recovery. However, this new chapter may be limited by capacity and softer consumer spending. Gross gaming revenue growth has slowed down, reaching 9.1% in 2025. This figure reflects weaker spending and limited casino capacity.

    However, Macau’s outlook is far from bleak. Analysts expect continuous EBITDA growth among major concessionaires, supported by stable demand and promotional activity. Overall, operators will likely enjoy steady growth, relying on efficiency and higher-quality customers rather than sheer volume.

    The end of junkets has reshaped Macau’s identity. Total gaming revenue for the region remains below pre-pandemic highs, as the high-volume, low-margin VIP market has largely disappeared. The region’s new business model combines tourism with entertainment to attract high-spending mass customers, supported by non-gaming amenities and closer regulatory oversight.

    Problem Gambling Emerges as a Rising Concern

    Macau has enacted key structural changes. The closure of the Landmark Casino at the start of this year ended the satellite casino system that allowed smaller venues to operate under the licenses of larger concessionaires. At its peak, Macau had more than 40 casinos. That number has now fallen to 20, all linked to the six licensed concession holders. The market has become more tightly regulated, aligning with Beijing’s aims to ensure greater control.

    However, Macau’s consolidation may have caused some unintended consequences. S&P warns that market pressures could push aggregate discretionary cash flow into deficit by 2026, even if operating performance remains robust. The agency warns that a full return to pre-pandemic credit ratings would require sustained confidence that operators can keep balance sheets in check.

    Macau’s transformation has also affected the region’s social structure. Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau data show that casino exclusion applications increased by 68% compared to the previous year. Such data indicates growing awareness of gambling harm as casinos focus more heavily on mass-market play. However, the sudden spike raises some concerns around accessibility and problem gambling.

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    Deyan Dimitrov

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  • Virginia lawmaker rolls the dice again on bill to bring casino to Fairfax Co. – WTOP News

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    The on-again, off again plan to bring a sprawling casino to Fairfax County, Virginia, is back on, even though many residents don’t want to roll the dice on the proposal.

    The on-again, off-again plan to bring a sprawling casino to Fairfax County, Virginia, is back on — even though many residents don’t want to roll the dice on the proposal.

    State Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell, a Democrat representing a portion of the county, has revamped and revived a bill that, if approved, would add Fairfax County to the list of localities eligible to host a casino.

    A similar bill, also introduced by Surovell, died in a House of Delegates committee last year.

    “We’re also losing a couple hundred million dollars a year to the MGM Casino over in (Prince George’s) County, and I can’t stand seeing all that Virginia money going over the bridge to Maryland,” he said. “We’ve got to get that money back in Virginia.”

    The sprawling entertainment venue would feature a hotel, a performing arts center, a convention center and a casino.

    At the request of Tyson’s residents, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors voted against the proposal last month. Homeowners fear the complex could bring unwanted traffic and congestion.

    In a news release, Paula Martino, president of the Tysons Stakeholders Alliance opposition group, said the reintroduction of a bill backing the casino is disappointing.

    “This proposal represents the wrong kind of development for Tysons and ignores the voices of the people who live and work here,” she wrote. “This bill is an attempt to use the same failed legislation as before to get a different result, and Tysons residents will react in the same manner as in previous years.”

    State lawmakers have failed to pass consecutive legislation on the issue since 2022. But Surovell said with high real estate taxes and a lack of a large convention center, Fairfax County still needs a way to make more cash.

    “The board of supervisors have been asking for decades for more ways to raise money,” he told WTOP. “This project would return about $300 million per year, or about $3 billion per decade, to Fairfax County so they could have that money to support our teachers, firefighters, our first responders, police, and help fund services at the level Fairfax County citizens expect.”

    Surovell said the bill requires a referendum, giving voters a final say on the casino.

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    © 2026 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

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  • UNLV: Vegas Slots Are Gradually Increasing Their Hold Percentage

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    A recent study by the UNLV has suggested that slot machines in Nevada are getting tighter, to players’ dismay. And if so, is the slot machine hold percentage still within the legal frame?

    Gamblers Have Been Feeling that Slots Are Getting Tighter

    For context, Nevada law requires all machines to have a return-to-player metric (RTP) of at least 75%. However, the RTP of most modern slot machines is usually much higher, generally reaching 93.5% for retail slots and even more for online slots.

    The benefit of a higher RTP is that they allow players to enjoy gaming longer, making it easier for casinos to foster brand loyalty. However, some players in Nevada have been feeling that the slot machines are getting tighter.

    A few have questioned the recent Nevada gaming industry financials, which show that the state’s casinos are making more money even though visitation has fallen. While this could be simply due to an increase in spending by existing customers, some believe that this could be due to the increase in casino hold percentage – the money casinos keep.

    Casinos Wouldn’t Dare to Break the RTP Rules, UNLV Says

    In its report, the UNLV noted that the average hold percentage for the past two decades has been 6.55, which is well within the legal limit. However, data also suggested that an increase in hold percentage has been gradually taking place, with the casino hold increasing by some 26% in the past 10 years to an average of 7.15% in 2025. This figure was even higher in Las Vegas, where the average hold percentage was as high as 7.57%.

    While this hold percentage isn’t illegal, as angrier players have suggested, the fact is that players have been winning back less money than before. Casino guests tend to prefer higher RTP ratings, which is why many have been unhappy with the change.

    Still, the UNLV was firm that casinos not only did not go above the max 25% hold percentage, but would not do it even if they had the opportunity. According to experts, such metrics would alienate players and, to top it all off, could cost a potential violator their gambling license.

    As a result, the tightest of the tightest slots have an RTP of roughly 86%, while many casinos also sport looser options with an RTP of around 96%.

    The UNLV concluded that the slight increase in hold percentages hasn’t changed the fact that luck plays a huge role in gaming and could mess with statistics. As a result, the monthly reports are not always a reliable indicator of the current RTP settings of slot machines.

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    Fiona Simmons

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  • NetGaming Readies to Welcome ICE Barcelona Delegates with Portfolio of Exciting Products

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    NetGaming sought to differentiate its product portfolio in 2025, and it has largely succeeded, owing to game releases tailored to local audiences and game mechanics that have gone further and pushed harder to bring innovative experiences to players.

    The upshot is 12 months of unbridled growth, which has landed the company numerous opportunities, including the debut of titles such as 3 Wild Lions, a BetMGM exclusive, Buffalo Fortune Pick,  and Pirate Fortune Gold Hold & Respin, among many others.

    Notably, the company released a signature crash-style game, FlyHigh, in 2025, openly entering one of the most exciting verticals in the industry.

    Throughout 2025, NetGaming remained committed to developing a product portfolio that is driven by finding a distinct angle to represent a game mechanic, and succeeded.

    Under NetGaming CEO Pallavi Deshmukh’s stewardship, the company has been able to gain ground in one of the most challenging and important iGaming markets in the world – the United States strike one deal after the next with prominent local operators, including Caesars, Rush Street Interactive, and, naturally, BetMGM. 

    Despite this success, the company also remains firmly embedded in Europe, where it is eyeing new pushes in the United Kingdom, Greece, and Italy, all planned out for 2026. 

    NetGaming has emerged as a global innovative studio capable of going up against industry heavyweights and differentiating its offer. The upcoming ICE Barcelona 2026 is an opportunity for the studio to deliver on more exciting promises and chart a path to the future of game creation.

    At a time when innovative and customized iGaming experience plays such a central role in product development, NetGaming is poised to harness its creativity and technical expertise to challenge the established framework and elevate the player experience.

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    Jerome García

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  • Springfield Campaign Aims to Limit Drunk Driving Linked to MGM Casino

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    The City of Springfield introduced the Springfield Safe Ride Home Campaign to help reduce the risk of impaired driving associated with alcohol use and gambling at MGM Springfield.

    Springfield Launches New Awareness Campaign for Driving Under the Influence

    Spearheaded by the City of Springfield Department of Health and Human Services (SDHHS) and the Massachusetts Council on Gaming and Health (MACGH), and funded by the Community Mitigation Fund (CMF), the initiative wants to promote safe driving amongst casino goers. 

    The Springfield Safe Ride Home Project began in 2023 following a Massachusetts Gaming Commission report, which found that between 2018 and 2020, MGM Springfield ranked as the second-highest “last drink” location in the state. A subsequent 2024 study of 548 MGM Springfield patrons revealed that 37% exhibited signs of risky driving behavior, while 27% held inaccurate beliefs about their ability to drive safely after consuming three or more drinks.

    The campaign highlights the need to support municipalities in addressing the impacts of gambling within their communities. According to authorities, the grant is funding interventions that help casino patrons make safer choices before, during, and after their visits to MGM Springfield.

    MGM Springfield is quite the popular destination for locals, as the data shows. Such being the case, perhaps it should not come as a surprise that the venue has produced many jackpot winners. Last week, for example, a player won a jackpot from just a $5 bet.

    Officials Talk About the Importance of Such a Project

    Marlene Warner, CEO of MACGH, explained that the Safe Ride Home initiative builds on the organization’s existing player health programs. It encourages patrons to set safer limits on both gambling and drinking, and to plan for getting to their next destination. She also expressed gratitude to MGM Springfield for its support in making the campaign possible.

    The campaign’s public health and roadway safety messages are also shared by Springfield’s Health & Human Services Commissioner, Helen Caulton-Harris, and Police Superintendent, Lawrence Akers. Mayor Domenic Sarno explained that there are no better people to deliver the initiative’s message than these two prominent Springfield figures.

    “When you’re making plans to have fun, please make sure you are also planning for safety and a safe way home too,” Mayor Sarno further explained. “Let’s all do our part toward the safety and well-being of all in our community. “

    The campaign will engage Springfield residents through a multi-platform strategy that includes digital advertising, social media, casino signage, a billboard visible from I-91, and community-based outreach.

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    Stefan Velikov

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  • Is Gambling with Crypto secure in 2026 – Tech Digest

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    Depending on which corner of the internet you hang out on, your view on how safe or unsafe crypto is will vary wildly. While some have unrelenting trust in crypto’s transparency and speed, others associate it with scary news headlines and grey markets. When talking about casinos using crypto, things only get more hotly debated.

    At the core of the problem is a lack of a mature, regulated market, meaning both good and bad operations co-exist. A secure crypto casino like Razed must be trusted based on other customer reviews and its overseas license, making it hard to differentiate from an untrusted operation.

    The secure crypto casinos will generally use encryption and decentralized servers to make sure that user data is private and that their activity is mostly anonymous. KYC is minimal.

    Crypto gambling websites do a good job in boasting about their “Provably Fair” algorithms, and rightly so, as this is the first time where players can now verify the randomness of every spin themselves by checking the blockchain.

    This level of transparency was non-existent in traditional fiat-based systems, though, you had the benefit of relying on the license provider to check for you, which has its own set of benefits.

    It is the move towards open-source verification that has shifted the burden of trust from a brand’s reputation or the license provider to logic of the code itself. In other words, in a less regulated market, the onus is on the individual to look after themselves. When looking at the Razed casino model, its security only becomes clear after you really inspect it, and this is a concern for non-technical customers.

    Blockchain integrity

    One of the main factors contributing to security in 2026 is the stability of major networks. The technology of Ethereum has moved on to support faster and more secure transactions than ever before, reducing the risk of network congestion or lost funds. Smart contracts handle the payouts, but it is up to the casinos individually to implement safety measures in terms of limitations (things that are automatic at normal casinos). Again, this means the ceiling for crypto casinos is high, but the floor is low. Withdrawal friction may be low, and actually, it may be more able than fiat casinos to payout during a busy liquidity crunch period – the operator has no ability to slow down or freeze the funds.

    The legal landscape

    The perceived safety of digital gambling is often tied to global regulations. In 2026, things are progressing to raise the floor. Many jurisdictions are coming forward with clear frameworks for blockchain-based gaming. These laws require operators to hold specific licenses and undergo regular third-party audits, though there is still a lack of high-authority jurisdictions with their own crypto casino licenses.

    By nature, crypto is decentralized and therefore global. It’s very difficult for countries to stop their citizens from using overseas platforms, especially when they simply use a VPN. But greater regulation can help legitimacy and bring trust to those who are less technical.

    While no online activity is entirely without risk, gambling with crypto in 2026 is safer than it has ever been. If you don’t have the skills to examine the smart contracts yourself, you can rely on customer reviews, licenses, and growing regulation.

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    Tech Digest Correspondent

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  • Beau Rivage Casino Guest Turns $3 Bet into $1.1M Payday

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    A lucky casino patron has won a seven-figure jackpot after firing up the reels of a slot machine at a Mississippi casino. This was one of the biggest jackpots the property has awarded in recent history.

    The Player Won $1.1M Off a $3 Bet

    On January 6, Beau Rivage Casino, a gaming property in Biloxi, Mississippi, announced that an extremely lucky visitor had won a progressive jackpot of a jaw-dropping $1,132,274. The spectacular win was scored on one of the casino’s Wheel of Fortune “penny machine” slots.

    What made the jackpot win even more special was the fact that it was won on a $0.01 denomination with a wager of just $3. Reports said that the winner was sitting before the machine for only 16 minutes before hitting it big. This exciting development proved once again that one does not need to be a high roller to win big at a casino.

    Further reports suggested that the winner was a visitor from Baton Rouge who is a regular Beau Rivage player.

    The Casino Congratulated the Winner

    Beau Rivage Casino officials congratulated the winner, saying that their success was worth celebrating.

    Congratulations to our lucky guest on an incredible $1,132,274 JACKPOT on Wheel of Fortune, won on a $0.01 denomination with just a $3.00 bet! You never know when the next big win will hit! Will you be next?

    Beau Rivage Casino statement

    Facebook followers of Beau Rivage Casino also commented on the development, with many congratulating the winner on taking a seven-figure sum home. One user jokingly added that the next time they are visiting Beau Rivage Casino, they will be bringing a ton of pennies.

    Another user joked that they chose the wrong vacation to kick off 2026 and should have gone to Beau Rivage Casino instead.

    More Casino Visitors Won Big During the Holidays

    The anonymous Beau Rivage Casino winner isn’t the only player to hit it big at the turn of the year. A few days ago, an anonymous Quincy man who was playing at Encore Boston on New Year’s Day secured a prize of $1,620,335 off a single bet at the Royal 9 Baccarat progressive jackpot.

    Elsewhere, a Seminole Casino Coconut Creek guest scooped up $1.3 million from a Dragon Link slot machine at the Seminole Casino Coconut Creek in Florida just in time for Christmas.

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    Angel Hristov

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  • Macau Closes the Curtain on Satellite Casinos

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    Macau has quietly ended one of the most distinctive chapters in its gaming history with the shutdown of the Landmark Casino at midnight on January 1, marking the conclusion of the region’s long-running experiment with satellite casinos. With this decades-old operating model now over, Macau continues its efforts to adapt to shifting industry trends and reduce its reliance on casino revenue.

    Regulatory Changes Made Satellite Casinos Unfeasible

    The closure of Landmark marked the final act in a process that started after the COVID pandemic. Satellite casinos were once a common sight in Macau, operating under separate agreements that allowed third-party property owners to run casinos using the licenses of major concessionaires. Such arrangements fueled Macau’s rapid gambling expansion, particularly during the early 2000s.

    However, the passage of Law 7/2022 marked the beginning of the end for satellite casinos. The revised gaming legislation introduced stricter oversight and reshaped the legal landscape. It granted satellite casinos a three-year transitional window to either restructure their business models or shut down entirely with a deadline of December 31, 2025. 

    In reality, restructuring was not economically viable. Landmark was one of the last properties to announce it would cease operations following the closure of nine other satellite casinos earlier in the year. Melco Resorts and Galaxy Entertainment had taken similar steps, choosing to shutter their satellite operations gradually instead of fully taking over or renegotiating the management conditions.

    Macau Seeks Tighter Control over the Gambling Sector

    The Landmark’s final hours featured a proper ceremony. On the final night,crowds gathered outside the venue, drawn by a mixture of nostalgia and curiosity. When the doors closed, staff drew red curtains across the casino’s signage, a gesture that underscored the finality of the closure. A brief technical hiccup with the curtain only enhanced the experience before the staff rectified the problem.

    Landmark’s closure means that all of Macau’s casinos are now fully owned and operated by itssix licensed concessionaires. While the current situation marks a stark contrast from the region’s peak of 42 casinos, the pandemic and regulatory reforms necessitated a new approach. The remaining 20 casinos reflect a more centralized and tightly controlled industry.

    The transition for satellite casino workers has been smoother than expected. In November 2025, around1,600 workers from shuttered satellite casinos were reassigned to other properties run by concessionaires. Dedicated support teams and consultation hotlines remain available to workers as authorities seek to ensure a smooth transition.

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    Deyan Dimitrov

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  • Save Fort Wayne Launches Website to Protest Opening a New Casino In the City

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    A newly formed group called Save Fort Wayne has joined the discussion surrounding a proposed casino in Fort Wayne or elsewhere in Allen County. The group is comprised of local professionals in the business and finance sphere and launched a website to bolster its fight against Senate Bill 70 and House Bill 1038, both of which would facilitate the opening of a new casino in the city.

    Anonymous Group Opposes Fort Wayne Casino Project

    The group said that, due to the political nature of the issue and their obligations to current employers, its members chose to remain anonymous to protect their professional careers. It also stated that it aims to keep the public discussion focused on data rather than personalities and identified advocacy for a voter referendum as its primary objective. 

    It cited polling data suggesting that public opposition increases significantly as residents become more informed about the potential downsides of expanded gambling. The group said a referendum is necessary to ensure organizations such as Save Fort Wayne and the Coalition for a Better Allen County, as well as individual residents, have an opportunity to publicly voice their concerns.

    Senate Bill 70 gained much traction earlier this month when the Senate Public Policy Committee unanimously approved it. It would allow relocation of the Ohio County casino license to Fort Wayne, Allen County.

    Mayor Sharon Tucker was asked to respond to the Save Fort Wayne website and the claims it raises. When questioned about the possibility of a referendum, the mayor’s office said the mayor has previously stated that she does not oppose public input but is concerned that a referendum could slow the overall process.

    Who Supports the New Casino Project?

    Speaking of the mayor, she and all three members of the Allen County Board of Commissioners sent a letter to state legislators voicing their support for a casino in Allen County. The letter states that 60% of the tax revenue generated by a new casino would be allocated to communities throughout the county based on population. Meanwhile, the remaining 40% would be directed into a nonprofit fund aimed at addressing mental health, homelessness, addiction, and related issues. It also notes that an appointed board would be responsible for overseeing the distribution of those funds.

    Save Fort Wayne’s new website is likely a response to the online page Fort Wayne First, made by Greater Fort Wayne Inc., the chamber of commerce representing Fort Wayne and Allen County. It was launched in November and claims that a casino in Allen County would bring benefits beyond gaming. These include new jobs, partnerships with small businesses, increased tax revenue for neighborhood improvements, public safety, and parks, as well as growth in tourism and hospitality. 

    It also argues that if a casino were located elsewhere, those economic benefits would be lost to another community. The site notes that while multiple communities are competing for the opportunity, Fort Wayne is presented as uniquely positioned to retain economic growth, community investment, and new jobs within the area.

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    Stefan Velikov

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  • Dutch Gaming Regulator Braces for Significant Restructuring

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    The Dutch Gambling Authority (KSA) will undergo a significant internal transformation, reflecting the sharp evolution of the country’s gambling market and its associated risks in recent years. Starting from January 1, 2026, a new, streamlined governance model will centralize the regulator’s management structure, bolstering its focus on player protection, digital oversight, and enforcement.

    The regulator announced that it will maintain continuity, meaning that Michel Groothuizen will remain chairman and the sole full-time member of the Board of Directors. Two additional part-time board members will contribute strategic input rather than overseeing day-to-day operations. Their recruitment is at an advanced stage, and formal announcements are expected in the next few months.

    “This change will make the KSA a modern, agile organization that oversees a rapidly changing gambling market.”

    KSA statement

    The regulator is also consolidating its internal departments into three directorates responsible for day-to-day management. One will concentrate on Player Protection and Management Advice, underscoring the growing political and public emphasis on harm prevention. Another will oversee Licenses and Supervision, maintaining the regulator’s core responsibilities around market access and compliance. The third, Digitalization, Analysis, and Operations, will keep track of technological advancements in the sector.

    The directors of these three new directorates, Roos Lawant, Ella Seijsener, and Daniël Palomo van Es, will collectively assume operational control, leaving the board to focus on strategy, governance, and accountability. Vice-chair Bernadette van Buchem will step down at the end of 2025, concluding a four-decade career in public service marked by a strong commitment to gambling regulation.

    Illegal Operators Remain a Persistent Issue

    The restructuring aligns with a moment of self-reflection for the KSA. In a recent speech, Groothuizen admitted the limitations of the Netherlands’ current regulatory framework. Despite the introduction of a regulated online market, offshore operators continue to thrive due to the country’s reluctance to block websites or impose aggressive internet restrictions. 

    At the same time, some of the Netherlands’ strict player protection rules have led to unintended consequences. There has been a gradual but steady movement of high-spending players to unlicensed platforms, causing tension in the regulated market and undermining channelization efforts. Groothuizen underlined the growing need for international collaboration by regulators to address the global rise in illegal gambling.

    Groothuizen has consistently called for deeper international cooperation, even floating the idea of a Europe-wide body dedicated to combating illegal gambling, akin to Interpol. The KSA’s reorganization signals that gambling oversight is no longer just about issuing licenses and chasing violations. It is about data, digital tools, and strategic coordination — and the regulator wants to remain relevant.

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    Deyan Dimitrov

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  • Coinbase Doubles Down on Prediction Markets, Acquiring the Clearing Company

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    Coinbase is accelerating its expansion into prediction markets with the acquisition of The Clearing Company. This move should further establish the crypto exchange as a multi-asset trading platform rather than a pure-play digital currency venue. Despite this milestone expansion, prediction markets remain embroiled in legal challenges, resulting in ongoing uncertainty.

    ​Prediction Markets Represent a Promising New Vertical

    ​This deal marks Coinbase’s tenth acquisition in 2025 as the company seeks to diversify away from the volatile cryptocurrency trading sector. While financial terms were not disclosed, the transaction is expected to finalize in January, bolstering Coinbase with much-needed crucial infrastructure and expertise in event-based trading. This move is critical for the company’s ambitions to compete with established prediction market operators.

    Interest in prediction markets surged during the 2024 US presidential election and has continued to grow as retail investors increasingly see them as the next big market disruption. Even retail betting platforms like FanDuel and DraftKings have taken notice, launching bespoke prediction apps across multiple states to secure an early market lead.

    Earlier this month, Coinbase launched its own prediction markets platform and signalled its intentions to branch out into stock trading. This move places it in direct competition with companies like Robinhood and Interactive Brokers. According to J.P. Morgan analysts, this strategy aims to attract more consistent customer engagement, reducing Coinbase’s vulnerability to boom-and-bust trading activity.

    ​Regulatory Uncertainty Remains a Pressing Issue

    ​For Coinbase, the Clearing Company provides more than just a new product line. Analysts note that this move should bolster the fundamentals behind event contracts and give Coinbase increased control over execution, settlement, and compliance. With more than 100 million registered users worldwide and roughly 11 million monthly active customers, a successful foray into this market could help Coinbase challenge established players such as Kalshi.

    ​However, the acquisition aligns with rising regulatory friction. Coinbase has already taken legal action against regulators in Connecticut, Illinois, and Michigan, seeking to prevent state gambling regulators from interfering with what it sees as products under the exclusive jurisdiction of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). Coinbase argued that state enforcement efforts pose a direct threat to its expansion plans.

    ​Tensions are rising throughout the industry, with Kalshi and other prediction platforms embroiled in multiple legal challenges. Coinbase likely hopes that acquiring The Clearing Company will provide it with the scale and infrastructure to emerge as a leader in this rapidly evolving market. While regulatory uncertainty remains, the company is betting that prediction markets will be the next big thing.

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    Deyan Dimitrov

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  • Santeda Linked to $2.7 Billion Illegal Gambling Network, According to GAMRS

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    According to a GAMRS report co-authored by DealMeOut CEO Jordan Lea, Curaçao-based operator Santeda International BV and its Mystake, Cosmobet, Velobet, Goldenbet, and Rolletto brands are at the heart of a black-market gambling network that generates over GBP 2 billion (around $2.70 billion) annually.

    GAMRS stands for the Gambling Industry Accreditation, Monitoring & Registration Service, and it is an independent organization that works with gambling operators, regulators, and public authorities to help keep licensed gambling markets free from illegal influence and unsafe suppliers.

    As part of the report, GAMRS collected testimonies from 96 customers who had gambled with Santeda brands. These respondents reported losing a combined total of GBP 241,152 (about $322,500) solely on the Mystake platform. GAMRS estimated Mystake’s annual turnover at GBP 1.2 billion (roughly $1.6 billion), roughly a third of Santeda’s overall revenue, with UK players accounting for 64.8% of the platform’s global traffic.

    Between August and October 2025, Mystake recorded 3.4 million visits, averaging approximately 1.1 million visits per month. UK users also demonstrated the highest engagement, with an average session lasting 22 minutes and 27 seconds and 14.93 pages per visit.

    One individual reported that after losing their father, their gambling had spiraled out of control. They stated that, although they had signed up with Gamstop, they began receiving offers from Mystake and Goldenbet casinos. Over the course of three days, they spent GBP 49,300 (around $66,000), even taking out two large loans. The individual added that Mystake showed no concern; despite being informed of their gambling addiction, the platform continued sending repeated offers to lure them back. They said this experience had devastated their life.

    GAMRS Explains Why This Might Be Happening

    According to GAMRS, unlike regulated firms operating within licensed markets, Santeda pays minimal tax in the offshore jurisdictions where it operates. This enables the organization to reinvest substantial sums into aggressive consumer acquisition and retention strategies.

    GAMRS assessed that migration to the black market is being accelerated by increasingly restrictive regulation in licensed markets. While regulatory measures aimed at reducing gambling harm are both necessary, current approaches are unintentionally strengthening the illegal market, the organization says. The report further explained that as gambling taxation rises across regulated markets, driven by sustained lobbying and political pressure groups, licensed operators are increasingly compelled to reconsider their investment in marketing, bonuses, rewards, and player incentives.

    Recently, the UK government has been discussing the Autumn Budget, which foresees a significant increase in the taxes of gambling operators in the country. However, many have criticized this decision, including the British Gaming and Betting Council, which said the tax hike could make the legal gaming industry less competitive, resulting in a potential user drain to the more dangerous black market.

    GAMRS seems to have a similar opinion on the matter, as according to the organization, black market operators face no such constraints and are already capitalizing on this imbalance.

    It warned that further fiscal or regulatory pressure on the licensed sector will inevitably accelerate consumer migration toward illegal operators, who offer significantly more attractive incentives, fewer restrictions, and no consumer protections.

    GAMRS emphasized that regulators and governments must now confront the likelihood that the current well-intentioned policies may, in fact, be amplifying the very harm they are intended to prevent.

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    Stefan Velikov

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