ReportWire

Tag: tribal gaming

  • Wisconsin Lawmakers Advance Tribal-Led Online Sports Betting Plan

    Momentum is building in Wisconsin around a proposal that could reshape the state’s sports betting landscape. The State Assembly has passed Assembly Bill 601, which would allow residents to place bets online or through mobile devices, provided those wagers are processed through servers located on tribal land. While the bill will advance to the Senate, its future remains uncertain.

    The Bill Takes Inspiration from Florida

    Currently, it is illegal to bet on sports at locations outside tribal casinos. Placing a wager anywhere outside a gaming property, even online, could lead to fines. AB 601 attempts to circumvent this issue by drawing a technical distinction: if a bet is routed through infrastructure physically located on sovereign tribal territory and covered under a gaming compact, it would be allowed.

    This solution draws inspiration from other states. Under Florida’s framework, mobile bets are treated as if they occur on tribal land because that is where the servers are located. Any person in the state can thus freely engage with these offerings online, regardless of their location within the state. Courts have so far accepted this solution.

    Supporters of the Wisconsin bill argue that the current legal framework fails to reflect modern market realities. Residents regularly wager online through offshore platforms that operate without proper regulatory control and do not contribute taxes. Legalizing mobile wagering could help protect consumers while opening a new revenue stream for tribal governments and the state.

    Commercial Operators Remain Skeptical

    Native American leaders strongly support this proposal, describing it as a way to support essential services and reduce long-term reliance on traditional casino traffic. Governor Tony Evers has also signaled he would not stand in the way of a proposal that expands tribal gaming rights, a stance that could prove decisive if the Senate passes the bill.

    However, not everyone is convinced. The Sports Betting Alliance, which represents commercial sportsbook operators, has expressed concerns that a tribal-only structure would disadvantage national sportsbook brands. FanDuel and DraftKings have expressed worries that a requirement to partner with tribal operators to enter the market could limit their ability to compete.

    Despite mounting support, Assembly Bill 601 must still overcome significant challenges. Senate approval is far from guaranteed, and any changes to tribal gaming compacts would need to pass federal review by the US Department of the Interior before mobile wagering could launch. Even so, supporters see the bill as a necessary step to keep Wisconsin sports betting aligned with market realities.

    Deyan Dimitrov

    Source link

  • Catawba Nation Petitions North Carolina for State Recognition

    Posted on: January 24, 2026, 01:28h. 

    Last updated on: January 24, 2026, 01:28h.

    • The Catawba Nation is seeking state recognition in North Carolina
    • The tribe has operated a casino in North Carolina since 2021

    The Catawba Nation has petitioned North Carolina for state recognition, where the federally recognized tribe has operated a temporary casino in Kings Mountain since July 2021.

    Catawba Nation Two Kings Casino North Carolina
    Catawba Nation Chief Brian Harris addresses the tribal community via Facebook on Jan. 6, 2026. Harris says the tribe is seeking state recognition in North Carolina, and plans to open the first phase of its permanent Two Kings Casino in the coming months. (Image: Facebook)

    In his 2026 outlook posted to Facebook on Jan. 7, Catawba Nation Chief Brian Harris said the tribe had completed its application to be recognized as a tribal community in North Carolina.

    Believe it or not, we hadn’t applied to be state-recognized in North Carolina. So, in 2026, we’ve got all of the paperwork turned in. We’ve done our due diligence. We gave them everything they want,” Harris explained.

    The Catawba’s application is pending, though the North Carolina Department of Administration’s American Indian Affairs lists the Catawba Nation as a registered tribal community.

    The Catawba Nation is a federally recognized tribe headquartered near Rock Hill, South Carolina. The Catawba Nation’s service area includes North Carolina, and the tribe operates a gaming enterprise in Kings Mountain, North Carolina,” the state tribal authority website reads.

    “The Catawba Nation maintains positive relationships with many tribes across the state and provides philanthropic support to projects in the Carolinas through the Catawba Nation Foundation. The Catawba Nation entered into a gaming compact with the State of North Carolina and has petitioned for state recognition with the North Carolina Commission of Indian Affairs,” the state agency continued. 

    ‘Introductory’ Casino Opening

    The Catawba Nation, backed by gaming and hospitality conglomerate Delaware North, broke ground in June 2024 on its $1 billion permanent casino resort in Kings Mountain. The development is being built near the temporary Two Kings Casino.

    Harris said in his 2026 outlook that the 80,000-square-foot “introductory” casino will open in “February or March.” The first phase of the permanent casino will include approximately 1,350 slot machines, 22 live dealer table games, and sports betting kiosks. The opening will additionally include a full-service restaurant and bar, a Lucky North Rewards desk, and 800 surface parking spaces.

    Harris says the tribe will repurpose the modular trailers that house the temporary casino that features 1,000 slots and 14 table games. 

    Permanent Two Kings Casino

    The second part of the permanent casino will open in conjunction with the full Two Kings Casino Resort. The final casino will include 4,300 slots, 100 tables, and a sportsbook.

    Construction continues to progress on the 24-story, 385-room hotel. Along with the casino, the destination’s amenities feature 11 dining options and a 2,700-space underground parking garage.

    The Catawba Nation says the construction of the casino resort has created more than 2,000 jobs in the region. The final product is set to open in 2027.

    Under the Catawba’s Class III gaming compact with North Carolina, the tribe shares 6% of its gross gaming revenue from its table games with the state through August 2027. The tax climbs to 7% until August 2032 and to 8% thereafter.

    The tribe must also pay the state $191,000 annually to “defray the state’s costs associated with sports and horse wagering oversight.”

    Finally, the tribe was also required to establish a foundation “for the benefit of the Catawba, other state and federally recognized tribes, and the local community.” The tribe’s foundational contribution is expected to reach $7.5 million annually once the full resort is up and running.

    Devin O’Connor

    Source link

  • Jordan Addison Case Dismissed, as State Declines Prosecution

    Posted on: January 21, 2026, 10:06h. 

    Last updated on: January 21, 2026, 10:16h.

    • A trespassing charge against Jordan Addison in Florida has been dismissed
    • The incident occurred at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa

    Florida State Attorney for the 13th Judicial Circuit Susan Lopez is declining to move forward with charges against NFL wide receiver Jordan Addison, who was arrested last week at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa.

    Jordan Addison arrest Seminole Hard Rock Tampa
    Minnesota Vikings WR Jordan Addison is tackled by Los Angeles Chargers CB Cam Hart during a game in Inglewood, Calif., on Oct. 23, 2025. Addison’s trespassing charge at a Seminole Hard Rock Casino in Florida has been dismissed. (Image: Shutterstock)

    On Tuesday, Lopez notified Addison and his attorneys that the first-degree misdemeanor trespassing charge against him was being withdrawn.

    Having reviewed the charge contained in the Criminal Report Affidavit and/or Notice to Appear, the State Attorney’s Office informs you that the charge contained therein is dismissed and prosecution is terminated as of this date and that the defendant need not appear for any further proceedings in this matter,” Lopez wrote.

    The state prosecutor also ordered that the $500 bond Addison paid be returned.

    As Casino.org reported, Addison, who plays for the Minnesota Vikings, was arrested at the Tampa tribal casino at 3:46 am on Monday, January 12, after he repeatedly refused to comply with orders to vacate the premises. Addison was released hours later after posting the $500 bond.

    Addison Issues Statement 

    Addison’s run-in with law enforcement in Florida wasn’t his first time in handcuffs.

    In July 2023, the now-23-year-old was arrested for reckless driving after being clocked driving at 140 miles per hour. A year later, the former Pitt and USC standout was arrested for DUI.

    Seminole Indian Police and Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office reported in an affidavit that Addison failed to comply with orders to leave the casino’s Jubao Palace Noodle Bar, which stays open until 4 am. Upon being escorted out, police reported that Addison “repeatedly had to be redirected towards the front exit.”

    “The defendant was redirected … multiple times. The defendant was then taken into custody for trespass after warning,” wrote Officer Fluellen in the criminal report affidavit.

    State prosecutors, however, opted not to carry on with the trespassing charge. That was, of course, welcome news to Addison and his attorneys.

    On behalf of his agent and all of his people, we are very happy that we were able to get this thing brought to light quickly and that his name was not dragged through the mud anymore,” said Brian Pakett of West Palm Beach criminal defense group Pakett Law. “Jordan is a great kid, and he did nothing wrong throughout this entire incident. Any suggestions otherwise are frivolous.”

    Addison’s 2024 drunk driving arrest resulted in him serving a three-game suspension to start the 2025 NFL season. He finished the season with 42 catches for 610 yards and three touchdowns. Addison’s numbers were down significantly from 2024, when he caught 70 passes for 911 yards and 10 touchdowns.

    The Vikings finished 9-8 to miss the NFL Playoffs.

    State Prosecutor

    Lopez, a Republican, has served as the state’s attorney for the 13th Judicial Circuit since August 2022. She’s the first female to hold the position.

    Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) appointed Lopez to the role after suspending State Attorney Andrew Warren. Lopez won reelection last November with almost 53% of the Hillsborough County vote.  

    Devin O’Connor

    Source link

  • Tribes Unite to Challenge Prediction Markets over Gaming Rights

    Native American tribes have united against prediction markets, arguing that such platforms encroached upon territory long governed by tribal gaming law. This newest development marks another chapter in the ongoing high-stakes legal and political disputes over who controls wagering in the United States and the place of tribal operations within the gambling sector.

    Prediction Platforms Face Increasing Pushback

    A broad coalition of tribal organizations and federally recognized tribes has submitted a legal brief in support of the Ho-Chunk Nation of Wisconsin in its lawsuit against prediction market operator Kalshi and brokerage partner Robinhood. The document, submitted by the Indian Gaming Association (IGA), the National Congress of American Indians, and16 tribes, argues that gaming revenue is essential for many communities, making the issue foundational to tribal sovereignty and survival.

    Revenue generated from gaming empowers Tribes to build critical infrastructure and provide basic services to reservation residents.

    David Z. Bean, IGA chairman

    Tribal leaders assert that platforms like Kalshi are effectively offering sports betting under a different name. By allowing users nationwide, including those on tribal lands, to trade contracts tied to the outcomes of sporting events, the platforms may be violating the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA) and current tribal-state compacts. 

    The Wisconsin case is not isolated. Tribes in California have attempted similar legal actions, while Nevada and other states have issued cease-and-desist orders aimed at prediction market operators. Together, these actions signal increasing pushback from regulators and tribes who believe the spread of prediction markets could undermine decades of negotiated gaming frameworks.

    Tribes Stand United to Safeguard Their Sovereignty

    The dispute revolves around a clash of legal interpretations. Tribes state that IGRA grants them exclusive rights to certain forms of gambling on tribal lands. They argue that federally regulated event contracts undermine tribal sovereignty. Meanwhile, Kalshi maintains that its trading activities fall under the jurisdiction of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and are governed by commodities law rather than gaming regulations.

    It is no coincidence that prediction market corporations selected the smallest and weakest financial regulatory agency to push out their self-certified, self-regulated online gambling platforms.

    David Z. Bean, IGA chairman

    Tribal leaders contend that allowing prediction platforms to spread unchecked undermines three decades of regulation and cooperation by drawing customers away from regulated tribal casinos. While some tribal leaders have floated the idea of setting up tribally-operated prediction platforms if federal agencies refuse to intervene, most believe that a unified legal and political campaign is the stronger option.

    The threat of prediction markets has led to unprecedented tribal unity. IGA has urged tribes across the country to coordinate lawsuits, lobby lawmakers, and press federal regulators to draw clearer lines on where prediction platforms stand. Their message is consistent: tribal gaming is a proven economic engine that sustains communities rather than a speculative tech experiment.

    Deyan Dimitrov

    Source link

  • Mashpee First Light Casino Roasts Itself with Pitch-Perfect ‘Trailer Park’ Ad

    Posted on: December 18, 2025, 07:26h. 

    Last updated on: December 18, 2025, 07:26h.

    • First Light opened as scaled-down casino after years of legal turmoil
    • Self-mocking ads highlight gap between megaresort dreams and reality
    • Tribe pursues future financing despite Genting deal collapse

    The Mashpee Wampanoag tribe’s long quest to build a casino in Taunton, Mass., hasn’t exactly been fun. But a self-mocking advertisement for its recently launched First Light gaming facility shows the tribe hasn’t lost its sense of humor.

    Mashpee Wampanoag, First Light Casino, Taunton casino, Genting, tribal gaming
    Mashpee Wampanoag’s First Light casino opens small, mocks setbacks, eyes future after $1B dream falls and hope ahead now

    The First Light was supposed to be a $1 billion megaresort financed by global casino giant Genting. But that deal was sunk by a series of legal and political disasters that almost saw the tribe stripped of its sovereign status. Meanwhile, its former chairman was arrested and imprisoned for corruption.

    The First Light that eventually opened was in the tribes’ Welcome Center, a nondescript temporary modular facility filled with 250 slot machines.

    The building was originally erected to preview the earlier, grander First Light project and educate the public about the tribe’s heritage and development goals. Now it is the project, at least for the time being.

    ‘Get Out of My Trailer!’

    A new Facebook ad for the First Light parodies the Mashpee’s unfortunate predicament. It features a man who stumbles across a trailer park and enters a humble prefab believing it to be the casino.

    “Is this where the slot machines are?” he asks hopefully as he flings open the door.

    Cut to an elderly couple in bed. The woman, her hair wrapped in bright pink curlers, screams, “Get out of my trailer!”

    The camera pans back to the mistaken gambler as a thrown slipper bounces off his head. He makes his excuses and leaves but appears profoundly moved by the experience.

    “She’s feisty!” he reflects, passionately.

    “First Light Casino. Our trailers are better than you think,” comes the perfect punchline.

    The ad is one of a series of short skits in a campaign that uses humor to puncture preconceptions that people may have about the casino.

    Another involves a man rolling around the casino in a Zorb ball, while yet another shows a couple playing slot machines while wearing gasmasks (the First Light is smoke free).

    Goal Remains?

    The First Light’s current operations are a fraction of what the original blueprint envisioned, which included a massive casino floor, multiple hotels, entertainment venues, and theme-park-scale attractions, none of which came to fruition.

    However, tribal leaders have been transparent about seeking new financing and scaling the project. The long-term goal of a full Class III permanent casino remains, but it will almost certainly look different than the original $1 billion Genting vision.

    Philip Conneller

    Source link

  • Attorney Urges Tribes, States to Fight Against Prediction Markets

    A leading gaming attorney is urging tribal nations and state attorneys general to join forces in pushing back against prediction markets, which he says pose risks to both state authority and tribal sovereignty.

    “Courts Are Finally Addressing the Issue” 

    Daniel Wallach spoke on Wednesday during a webinar hosted by the Indian Gaming Association, one day after DraftKings announced its acquisition of Railbird Technologies. 

    Railbird, approved by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to operate as a regulated futures exchange, plans to launch event-based trading through its Railbird Exchange. 

    DraftKings also revealed plans for a new mobile app, DraftKings Predictions, which will let users trade contracts tied to topics like finance and entertainment, with many expecting sports to follow. That could open the door for prediction markets in states that currently ban sports betting.

    Wallach said recent court decisions in Nevada, New Jersey, and Maryland show a growing trend in favor of state regulators. 

    “The courts are finally addressing the issue of Congressional intent and analyzing how implausible it would have been for Congress to ban sports betting through the Wire Act and PASPA and at the same time tacitly allow it through an obscure and opaque commodities exchange,” he said.

    A ruling is expected soon in a tribal lawsuit in San Francisco, where three tribes have accused Kalshi and Robinhood of running illegal sports betting operations on tribal lands. Massachusetts has also sued Kalshi, and Wallach said if the case moves to state court, “it would be a slam-dunk victory.”

    “We Won’t Stop.”

    During the discussion, Indian Gaming Association Conference chairman Victor Rocha called the fight over prediction markets a test of states’ rights and tribal sovereignty. “We won’t stop. We can’t stop. That’s not what we do. We fight. We have to fight for what’s left of our sovereignty. Whatever it takes,” Rocha said.

    Wallach credited tribes for helping shift momentum in these cases. “Until the tribes joined the battle, Kalshi was kicking the state’s (behinds),” he said.He also criticized prediction markets for allowing users aged 18 to 21, “the most at-risk segment for compulsive and problem gambling,” and lacking basic consumer protections. “Talk about the Wild West. This is the Wild East…”, he emphasized.

    Melanie Porter

    Source link

  • Mohegan Parts Ways with CEO Ray Pineault

    Mohegan said that its president and chief executive officer, Ray Pineault, is set to step down after over two decades with the company. According to the official announcement, Pineault took this decision in order to spend more time with his family

    Pineault to Step Down on December 28

    In its announcement, Mohegan clarified that Pineault will step down on December 28, 2025, effectively ending 25 years of service to the Mohegan Tribe. He was appointed as CEO in 2021 when he had the important task of helping Mohegan recover from the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Pineault originally joined Mohegan in 2001, first serving as senior attorney for the tribal government. He has since occupied a variety of noteworthy positions, such as president and general manager of the Mohegan Sun property and chief operating officer of Mohegan.

    Unfortunately, Pineault’s departure comes at a difficult time for the tribal gaming company, which was recently beset by trouble due to its difficulties in South Korea and Bain Capital’s takeover of the ambitious Mohegan INSPIRE resort.

    Pineault Is Confident in Mohegan’s Momentum

    Pineault released a statement on his departure and expressed confidence in Mohegan’s position, despite the setbacks. With that in mind, Pineault said that he believed that this was the perfect time to step down. He said that he was honored by the opportunity to serve the tribe for such a long period of time, but added that he was looking forward to focusing more on his family.

    I am proud of the work we have been able to accomplish, including the successful refinancing earlier this year, and want to thank the Tribal Council and the Mohegan Tribe, who have entrusted me with this responsibility. Your trust is not something that has ever been taken lightly or for granted, as I know the direct impact our business successes have for Mohegans of today and future generations.

    Ray Pineault, outgoing CEO, Mohegan.

    Pineault extended a “thank you” to everyone who has supported him over the years, including his colleagues and the thousands of Mohegan team members across the US and Canada.

    Mohegan’s tribal council chair, James Gessner Jr., thanked Pineault for his incredible contributions over the last 25 years. He acknowledged the outgoing CEO’s extremely hard work ans sacrifices made for the betterment of the tribe.

    On behalf of the Board and our Tribe, we thank you for all you have done to protect every Mohegan for 13 generations to come. We wish happiness and blessings in the next part of your journey.

    James Gessner Jr., tribal council chair, Mohegan

    Mohegan added that it is currently taking “appropriate steps” to facilitate a smooth transition of responsibilities.

    Fiona Simmons

    Source link

  • SIGA Appeals $1.2M FINTRAC Fine

    The Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA) has announced its intention to appeal a $1.175 million fine issued by the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC), asserting the issue involves administrative reporting and not financial crime.

    SIGA Denies Reasons for Fine

    FINTRAC is the federal agency responsible for monitoring and investigating financial transactions to help detect and prevent financial crimes such as money laundering and terrorist financing. It is Canada’s financial intelligence unit (FIU) and plays a key role in the country’s efforts to detect, prevent, and deter money laundering, terrorist financing, and other threats to the security of Canada.

    SIGA wrote in an official statement that it is important to note that this penalty relates solely to administrative reporting requirements and does not involve any allegations of money laundering, terrorist financing, or other financial crimes at SIGA’s properties. The Authority also reiterated that it works closely with a number of regulatory bodies in the course of its operations and places a strong emphasis on upholding and complying with regulatory standards.

    SIGA does not agree with the violations cited by FINTRAC, nor with the administrative penalty imposed. As a result, SIGA will be appealing both the findings and the penalty to the Federal Court.

    Why Was SIGA Fined?

    According to FINTRAC, SIGA was found to have committed several administrative violations, including: failing to submit suspicious transaction reports when there were reasonable grounds to suspect the transactions were linked to money laundering or terrorist financing; failing to include the required information in suspicious transaction reports; and failing to establish and maintain up-to-date written compliance policies and procedures, which, in the case of an organization, must also be approved by a senior officer.

    The penalty was issued on August 28 for non-compliance with Part 1 of the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act and its related regulations. In a statement, Sarah Paquet, Director and CEO of FINTRAC, stated that Canada’s anti-money laundering and anti-terrorist financing Regime is designed to safeguard the safety of Canadians and the security of the country’s economy. She emphasized that FINTRAC collaborates with businesses to support their understanding and compliance with obligations under the Act, while also maintaining a firm stance on ensuring that businesses fulfill their responsibilities, taking appropriate action when necessary.

    Stefan Velikov

    Source link

  • Mohegan Sun and FanDuel Launch New Sports Podcast  

    Mohegan Sun and FanDuel Launch New Sports Podcast  

    Tribal gaming operator Mohegan has joined forces with sportsbook juggernaut FanDuel to launch a new sports betting podcast. Sportsbook Live from Mohegan Sun just aired its first episode, providing sports fans with expert opinions on the upcoming NFL season.

    The Podcast Comes Just in Time for the NFL

    Sportsbook Live from Mohegan Sun will be a weekly event that will run through November 7. Episodes will be aired live every Tuesday at 6 pm from the sportsbook at Mohegan Sun, leaning into the big pro football games each Thursday night.

    Coming just in time for the new NFL season, the new podcast will touch on the hottest topics in professional sports. It will be hosted by Boston sports media staple Mike “Mut” Mutnansky and Philadelphia radio and TV personality Eytan Shander.

    The podcast will also feature Brad Bryant, general manager of the FanDuel Sportsbook at Mohegan Sun. As a sports pundit, Bryant will also share his sporting opinions, analysis and expert picks. He will also detail special events coming up in the sportsbook.

    The podcast is produced in partnership with OddShopper and will also cover the MLB playoff stretch, the NBA and other major sports in addition to football.

    Passionate sports aficionados who want to watch the podcast live can reserve a seat through UrVenue.

    The Three Hosts Discussed the Upcoming Games

    The first episode coincided with the start of the NFL season, adding to the football excitement. It saw Mut, Shander and Bryant discuss the big games taking place across the football weekend into the Monday night pro-football game.

    Bryant admitted that he was a fan of the big underdog, Northern Illinois, against Notre Dame on Saturday afternoon. Shander, on the other hand, was betting on Cincinnati crushing New England on Sunday. Mut, meanwhile, predicted low scoring at the Carolina at New Orleans game on Sunday.

    Brad Bryant commented on the launch of Sportsbook Live from Mohegan Sun, saying that was glad to join Mut and Shander for the podcast’s premiere.

    Each week, we will continue to deliver real-time analysis, make predictions, and showcase the incredible game-day experience at Mohegan Sun FanDuel Sportsbook. I’m excited to continue bringing fans this exciting content every week.

    Brad Bryant, general manager, Mohegan Sun FanDuel Sportsbook

    Those who may have missed it may catch up with the series on all major podcast platforms, including Spotify, Apple, Amazon Music or YouTube. Alternatively, fans can watch all episodes that have already aired on mohegansun.com/sportsbooklive.

    Angel Hristov

    Source link

  • Kambi Pens Multi-State Deal with Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

    Kambi Pens Multi-State Deal with Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

    Kambi Group, a leader in the provision of sports betting solutions, has formed a multi-state sportsbook partnership with the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, one of the largest Indian communities in the US. Under the deal, Kambi will supply the tribal nation with its cutting-edge sports betting services and tech.

    Under the agreement, the Choctaw Nation will pair its digital and ecommerce experience with Kambi’s sportsbook excellence. By capitalizing on the provider’s market-leading turnkey sportsbook, the tribal entity seeks to expand its presence across online and retail sports betting.

    The Choctaw Nation operates Choctaw Casinos & Resort, a casino & hospitality brand with properties across southeastern Oklahoma. The tribe is also the official and exclusive casino and resort partner of the Texas Rangers, the MLB’s World Series Champion.

    Choctaw Nation’s flagship resort is located near the Texas border and close to the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex with a population of more than 8 million.

    For Kambi, this partnership represents another opportunity to cement its position as the preferred sportsbook partner of Indian Nations in the US. According to the announcement, the Choctaw Nation opted to pick Kambi because of the latter company’s proven tech capabilities and collaborative approach to delivering tailored solutions.

    A Major Addition to Kambi’s Portfolio of Tribal Partnerships

    Kambi’s co-founder and CEO, Kristian Nylén, commented on the new tie-up, praising it as a “landmark partnership” for his company. In addition to noting that the deal has exciting long-term potential, Nylén lauded the Choctaw Nation for its fantastic gaming facilities and experience in the digital sector.

    Not only does Choctaw Nation have fantastic, well-positioned gaming and entertainment facilities in Oklahoma, but its proven track record in developing successful digital businesses gives me every confidence that together we will create thrilling sports betting experiences for its players.

    Kristian Nylén, co-founder & CEO, Kambi

    Nylén added that the Choctaw Nation was an obvious partner. He was delighted that the tribal nation recognized the benefits of Kambi’s technology and the supplier’s shared values. Kambi’s CEO pointed out that trust lies at the core of each tribal partnership and concluded that his team is looking forward to bolstering the Choctaw Nation’s business.

    Heidi Grant, senior executive officer of commerce for the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, also commented on the matter, echoing Nylén’s excitement about the tie-up.

    Adding Kambi’s best-in-class technology and custom player offerings to Choctaw Nation’s brand and market positioning, Choctaw Nation is poised to remain well-positioned as the premier, full-service, vertically integrated gaming operator throughout our region.

    Heidi Grant, senior executive officer of commerce, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma

    The announcement comes several days after Kambi posted its financials for the first quarter of the year.

    Angel Hristov

    Source link

  • California Tribal Coalition Stands Strong Against Sports Betting Proposals

    California Tribal Coalition Stands Strong Against Sports Betting Proposals

    The California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA) announced its unwavering opposition to two proposed sports wagering initiatives, marking a united front against what they deem as deceptive measures. 

    CNIGA Chairman Raises Alarms Over Deceptive Sports Wagering Initiatives

    CNIGA Chairman, James Siva, expressed concerns about the initiatives, highlighting their disingenuous nature. Chairman Siva stated during a press conference in Sacramento that the proponent of the measures was attempting to divide and conquer tribes by pushing an initiative that sought to legitimize illicit offshore operators and put their governments at risk.

    The 52-member coalition, representing federally recognized tribal governments and associate members, is dedicated to preserving and protecting Indian gaming on federally recognized Indian lands. Their firm stand against the sports wagering initiatives stems from a commitment to safeguarding tribal sovereignty and integrity.

    In a letter addressed to Eagle1 Acquisition Corp. executives Kasey Thompson, Reeve Collins, and petition signer Ryan Tyler Walz, CNIGA, along with 28 individual tribes, urged the proponents to withdraw their initiatives immediately. The letter emphasized the strong opposition from more than half of California tribal nations, condemning the proposals as offensive and deceptive.

    California Tribal Heavyweights Rally Against Latest Sports Betting Push

    The sports betting initiatives, filed on October 27, face significant resistance from tribes, including some of the state’s largest casino operators such as the San Manuel, Pechanga, Graton Rancheria, Agua Caliente, Barona, and Rincon tribes. 

    These tribal heavyweights, collectively spending over $220 million in 2022 to defeat a previous sports betting proposal, remain steadfast in their opposition to what they perceive as an attempt to hijack tribal goodwill for personal gain.

    The CNIGA also voiced concerns about a plan to transfer offshore assets to tribes, characterizing it as a cynical and deceptive attempt to cleanse illegal offshore online gambling corporations with a track record of illicit activities. They pledged to launch an aggressive campaign against the initiatives, akin to their successful efforts in 2022, resulting in an 82% vote against a similar proposal.

    Despite the proponents’ amendments to the initiative, removing language deemed problematic by some tribes, the CNIGA remains resolute in its opposition.

    The tribal coalition firmly believes that 2024 is not the right time for sports betting in California, viewing it as a 2026 issue at the earliest. They underscored the importance of tribal sovereignty and the support it enjoys among California voters, reinforcing their commitment to defeating the proposed sports betting measures.

    Silvia Pavlof

    Source link

  • WarHorse Gaming’s Nebraska Projects Set to Bolster Local Economy

    WarHorse Gaming’s Nebraska Projects Set to Bolster Local Economy

    WarHorse Gaming, a division of the Winnebago Tribe’s economic development arm, Ho-Chunk, Inc., is developing two brick-and-mortar casino resorts in the state- WarHorse Casino Lincoln at the Lincoln Race Course and WarHorse Casino Omaha at Horsemen’s Park. These developments will be a game-changer for local economies, and they come at a time when sports betting has also taken root in the state.

    High-Profile Venues Will Redefine Nebraska’s Hospitality Sector

    The WarHorse Casino projects in Lincoln and Omaha signify a vital step forward for Nebraska’s economy. The state’s decision to allow Las Vegas-style casinos to operate at licensed horse racetracks can allow such venues to become catalysts for economic growth in their respective regions. WarHorse’s two projects aim to open next year, redefining Nebraska’s hospitality industry.

    Both developments will feature ongoing expansions, eventually including on-site hotels with approximately 200 guestrooms, further enhancing their appeal as entertainment destinations. The operator’s safe gambling efforts have been instrumental in maintaining a safe and secure environment, bolstering customer confidence, and fostering an enduring reputation for quality and social responsibility.

    WarHorse Casino Omaha opened a temporary gaming space in September 2022, featuring over 400 slot machines and pari-mutuel simulcast wagering. This gaming venue, set up within the infield at Horsemen’s Park, marked the beginning of the operator’s operations in Omaha. Subsequently, WarHorse Gaming applied to expand its offering by introducing sports betting at this location.

    WarHorse Will Also Capitalize on the Launch of Sports Betting

    The recent approval by the Nebraska Racing and Gaming Commission allowed WarHorse to offer sports wagering at select venues after 1 November. The company has partnered with Kambi for its sports betting operations, leveraging the supplier’s substantial experience in the tribal gaming industry. This collaboration reflects the WarHorse’s commitment to providing patrons with a high-quality sports wagering experience.

    The launch of sports betting in Omaha holds particular significance as it coincides with the height of the football season. The NFL and the NCAA traditionally dwarf all other sports during this period, and sports fans will finally have the chance to support their favorite teams. Legalizing sports betting should also eliminate the need for cross-state trips to Iowa, bolstering the local economy.

    WarHorse Casino has expertly timed its entry into Nebraska to capitalize on its expanded gaming options. The recent regulatory developments and high-profile launches should stimulate local economies, provide a source of entertainment, and enhance the state’s gaming landscape. WarHorse Gaming’s commitment to delivering a superior gaming and sports betting experience aims to transform Nebraska’s gaming industry and aid sustained growth.

    Deyan Dimitrov

    Source link