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Thaksin Shinawatra Confirms Support for Legalized Casinos in Thailand

New-Thai-PMs-influential-father-Thaksin-Shinawatra-confirms-support-for-legalized-casinosIn a significant development for the gaming industry in Thailand, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has confirmed his support for the legalization of casinos. This endorsement from Thaksin, the influential father of Thailand’s newly appointed Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is seen as a strong indication of the government’s direction towards legalizing casino resorts. Thaksin’s backing comes at a crucial time, following the recent removal of former leader Srettha Thavisin from office.

Economic Vision and Casino Legalization

Thaksin outlined his vision for revitalizing Thailand’s sluggish economy during a detailed speech titled “Vision for Thailand” on Thursday. Among the measures he proposed to stimulate economic growth is the development of large-scale integrated resorts (IRs) featuring legalized casinos. Thaksin emphasized the significant investment potential these projects could bring, with an IR in Bangkok alone estimated to attract investments of around TBH100 billion (US$2.90 billion). Similar projects in other provinces are projected to draw investments of approximately TBH50 billion (US$1.45 billion) each, according to a report by Bloomberg.

This stance aligns with predictions from industry experts who have anticipated that the Pheu Thai party, led by Thaksin’s daughter Paetongtarn, would continue to pursue casino legalization as part of its economic policy. William J Jones, Assistant Professor of International Relations at Bangkok’s Mahidol University International College, stated last week that “Thaksin and his daughter as new PM will continue with the casino plan, as tourism including MICE is a major plank of [their party]

Pheu Thai’s economic policies.”

Economic Stimulus and Policy Influence

Thaksin also voiced support for a substantial economic stimulus plan during his speech. The proposed TBH500 billion (US$4.5 billion) handout plan aims to distribute TBH10,000 to approximately 50 million Thai citizens via a digital wallet, with the stipulation that the funds be spent locally within six months. Thaksin described this plan as an “immediate economic boost in September,” stressing the need to stimulate the economy, which he noted has been stagnant for an extended period.

Regarding Thailand’s broader economic outlook, Thaksin remarked, “I think the Thai economy hasn’t hit the bottom yet but it’s unlikely to slide any further. The government has done many things and that will help control the situation.” He highlighted the importance of government leadership in these efforts, while also calling on the private sector to contribute.

Despite not holding an official position within the Pheu Thai party, Thaksin’s influence over his daughter’s administration is undeniable. Many political analysts believe that Thaksin will play a pivotal role in shaping policy, particularly in navigating the coalition government towards supporting casino legislation. Thaksin’s experience and political acumen could be crucial in securing backing from coalition partners, some of whom have expressed reservations about the casino initiative.

Path Forward for Casino Legislation

The timing of Thaksin’s endorsement is noteworthy, as it follows the conclusion of a two-week public feedback period on draft casino legislation. Released earlier in August, this draft outlines the key governance and operator requirements for the proposed casinos. The public feedback period, which concluded quietly over the weekend, represents a step forward in the legislative process. The removal of Srettha and the appointment of Paetongtarn Shinawatra as Prime Minister have injected new momentum into the discussion, with Thaksin’s support likely to be a decisive factor in the legislation’s progress.

As Thailand moves closer to potentially legalizing casinos, the involvement of Thaksin Shinawatra, with his vast political experience and influence, is expected to play a critical role in shaping the future of the country’s gaming industry.

Source:

New Thai PM’s Influential Father Thaksin Shinawatra Confirms Support for Legalized Casinos, asgam.com, August 23, 2024.

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AGA: Regulators Should Probe Sweepstake Casinos and Sportsbooks

New-anti-sweepstakes-policy-released-by-American-Gaming-AssociationAs the popularity of sweepstakes-based wagering models continues to surge, the American Gaming Association (AGA) has sounded the alarm on the potential risks these platforms pose to consumers and the legal gaming industry. In a recently released policy statement, the AGA emphasized the need for increased regulatory oversight to prevent sweepstakes casinos from circumventing state gambling laws and exploiting legal ambiguities to operate unchecked.

Sweepstakes Casinos: A Growing Threat

The rise of so-called “sweepstakes casinos” has introduced a new and unregulated form of online gambling that mimics traditional casino games such as slots, roulette, blackjack, and poker. These platforms allow players to engage in gameplay either for free or by purchasing virtual currency, commonly known as Gold Coins. Alongside Gold Coins, players may also receive Sweep Coins, a secondary form of virtual currency that can be exchanged for cash or prizes, making these games increasingly indistinguishable from conventional online casinos.

However, the dual-currency model used by these operators—where Sweep Coins are presented as “free” but often require real money or significant time investment to redeem—has raised concerns among regulators and industry stakeholders. The AGA’s policy statement highlights the dangers posed by the lack of regulatory oversight, which “presents many risks for consumers as well as the integrity and economic benefits of the legal gaming market through investment and tax contributions.” The organization notes that many sweepstakes operators implement weak, if any, responsible gaming protocols and offer minimal self-exclusion processes, leaving players vulnerable to exploitation.

Michigan Takes Action Against Sweepstakes Operators

In response to the growing presence of sweepstakes casinos, some states have begun taking legal action to curb their operations. Michigan, in particular, has emerged as a battleground in the fight against unregulated sweepstakes gambling. In November and December of 2023, the Michigan Gaming Control Board (GCB) issued cease-and-desist orders to Cyprus-based Sweepstakes Limited (Stake.us) and San Francisco-based VGW Luckyland, both of which offer sweepstakes-based gaming services. These companies were found to be in violation of Michigan’s gaming laws, including the Lawful Internet Gaming Act, which mandates that internet gaming can only be offered by licensed operators.

The GCB’s crackdown on VGW Luckyland also cited violations of the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act and the Michigan Penal Code. The GCB determined that VGW’s activities constituted illegal gambling, as they involved “conducting illegal gambling by offering an internet game in which a player wagers something of monetary value for the opportunity to win something of monetary value.” As a result of these violations, VGW and other sweepstakes operators have been forced to cease operations in Michigan.

A Call for Broader Regulatory Scrutiny

The AGA has called for more comprehensive regulatory scrutiny of sweepstakes casinos and sportsbooks operating under similar models across the United States. The trade group argues that these platforms exploit legal loopholes and often operate in a legal gray area, undermining the integrity of the regulated gaming industry and depriving states of crucial tax revenue. The AGA’s policy statement urges regulators and state attorneys general to investigate these companies thoroughly to ensure compliance with state laws and regulations.

In addition to enforcement actions, the AGA recommends that legislatures consider enacting new laws to close existing loopholes that allow unlicensed operators to offer online real-money gambling under the guise of sweepstakes. “Where state laws and regulations are not clear, legislatures should consider enacting legislation to prevent unlicensed operators from exploiting loopholes in sweepstakes regulations to offer online real money gambling,” the AGA stated in its policy.

The Need for Immediate Action

Industry experts warn that the rapid growth of sweepstakes casinos presents an urgent threat to consumers and the legal gaming industry. According to a recent report by Eilers & Krejcik, the market for sweepstakes gaming is expected to reach approximately $8.5 billion in 2024, with projections suggesting it could explode to over $11 billion by 2025. This growth has been fueled, in part, by a surge of private equity investment, with investors betting that states will be too slow to crack down on these operators.

As highlighted in a recent LinkedIn post, the opaque nature of sweepstakes operations “presents a prime opportunity for illegal activity and enriching bad actors.” The post further warns that sweepstakes casinos are “flooding into states in which online gaming is otherwise illegal, and it’s hitting unsuspecting consumers like a tidal wave.”

Given the potential for harm, the AGA and other industry stakeholders are urging regulators to take swift action to protect consumers and preserve the integrity of the legal gaming market. The sooner regulatory bodies and state attorneys general address these concerns, the better it will be for consumers, the industry, and the prevention of illegal activities such as money laundering.

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New Zealand Government to Regulate Online Casinos

New-Zealand-launches-process-to-regulate-online-casino__The New Zealand government has announced its plan to regulate online casinos through a comprehensive licensing framework designed to minimize harm, support tax collection, and ensure robust consumer protections. This significant move marks the first time New Zealand will regulate online casino activities, with the new system expected to be in place by 2026.

Comprehensive Licensing System

Minister of Internal Affairs, Brooke van Velden, outlined the high-level approach the government will take in regulating online casinos. “There will be a licensing system for online casinos, where operators will need to comply with a set of criteria before they will be able to offer services to New Zealanders. It will be illegal for unlicensed operators to offer services to New Zealanders,” stated Ms. van Velden.

The government’s approach ensures that the new regulations do not aim to increase gambling activity among New Zealanders but rather to ensure that operators meet essential requirements for consumer protection and harm minimization, along with paying taxes. A limited number of licenses will be available, allocated through an auction process, and will last for three years, conditional on meeting regulatory standards. The minimum age for online gambling will be set at 18 years, and licensed operators will be restricted to offering online casino games, excluding sports betting and lottery products.

Controlled Advertising and Sponsorship Regulations

Licensed operators will be permitted to advertise their services under strict limits, a significant shift from the current prohibition. However, sponsorship by online casinos will remain illegal to further minimize harm. Minister van Velden expressed her expectations for the new system: “I expect the new regulatory system to be in place from early 2026 and the public will have the opportunity to provide feedback during the Select Committee process. Once established, the Department of Internal Affairs will be the regulator.”

Industry Response and Future Prospects

The New Zealand government’s decision to regulate online casinos has garnered support from various stakeholders in the industry. SkyCity Entertainment Group, a major player in the local casino market, voiced its support for the new regulations. “We remain supportive of the regulation of online casino gaming in New Zealand, with an emphasis on strong host responsibility and delivering community benefits in New Zealand,” stated SkyCity. The company’s CEO, Jason Walbridge, welcomed the plans to restrict license numbers and advertising, noting the importance of minimizing harm and protecting consumers.

SkyCity has long advocated for a regulated online casino market to compete with offshore operators. The company set up its online business through a Malta-based subsidiary in 2019 and has called for a level playing field where all operators contribute their fair share of taxes. “SkyCity looks forward to a regulated market, where harm minimisation is one of the primary objectives,” the company said in a previous statement.

Impact on the Market and Next Steps

This regulatory overhaul represents the first major change to New Zealand’s gambling landscape under the new government, which came into power following the National Party’s victory in last year’s election. The party had previously highlighted the potential to raise significant revenue from taxing offshore operators and criticized the lack of goods and services tax (GST) collection from the black market.

As the government moves forward with the implementation of the new framework, public consultations during the Select Committee process will allow stakeholders and citizens to provide feedback. The regulatory details, including the specifics of the offshore gambling tax, are expected to be announced later this year.

Source:

Regulating online casinos approach, beehive.govt.nz, July 30, 2024.

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Brazil Approves Bill to Legalize Casinos and Bingo

brazil_commission_votes_to_legalise_casinos_and_bingoBrazil’s Justice and Citizenship Commission (CCJ) has taken a significant step by approving a bill that legalizes casinos, bingo, jogo de bicho, and horserace betting. The bill, known as PL 2,234/2022, passed with 14 votes in favor and 12 against on June 19. Having been under consideration since 2022, it now advances to the Senate plenary for further voting, following its prior approval by Brazil’s chamber of deputies.

A Great Opportunity for Brazil

During the CCJ meeting, Senator Irajá highlighted the potential benefits of regulating betting and gaming in Brazil. He emphasized that this move represents a significant opportunity for the country, promising job creation, increased income, and enhanced tax revenues, which could be redirected toward essential sectors such as health, education, social services, and infrastructure.

“We can no longer lose this great opportunity that other competing countries have already understood and is seen to generate jobs, income and taxes, which will obviously be reversed into benefits for the Brazilian people in the most essential areas, such as health, education, social and infrastructure,” Irajá stated.

Regulations and Taxes

The bill sets forth specific regulations for various forms of gambling, including casinos, betting machines, bingo, and animal racing. It also introduces two new types of taxes: the Gaming and Betting Inspection Fee (Tafija) and the Economic Intervention Contribution levied on the marketing of games and betting (Cide-Jogos). Tafija would be paid quarterly, amounting to R$600,000 for casinos, R$300,000 for online gaming locations, and R$20,000 for bingo halls, Jogo de Bicho operators, and tourism companies. The Cide-Jogos tax rate would be set at 17% of gross revenue, with prizes over R$10,000 subject to a 20% income tax.

Casino Operations

Should the bill become law, casinos would be permitted in tourist centers or integrated leisure complexes, such as resorts and hotels with bars, meeting spaces, and a minimum of 100 rooms. Additionally, casinos could operate on boats and ships with at least 50 rooms, given certain river length parameters. There would be a limit of one casino per state and the Federal District, with São Paulo, allowed up to three casinos and Minas Gerais, Rio de Janeiro, Amazonas, and Pará up to two each. Each casino would be required to have a minimum paid-up share capital of R$100 million.

Bingo and Racing

The legislation also covers the legalization of bingo in card, electronic, and video formats. Each municipality could have one bingo house, with larger cities allowed one per 150,000 inhabitants. Licensed bingo houses could operate for 25 years, subject to renewal, and would need to provide proof of a minimum paid-up share capital of R$10 million.

For animal racing, the bill allows one legal racing entity per 700,000 inhabitants, except for Roraima, which would have a jogo do bicho operator due to its lower population. Bets on horseracing would be managed by Brazilian tourism entities accredited by the Ministry of Agriculture, which could also operate bingo and video bingo games within the same grounds as the races.

Protections and Enforcement

PL 2,234/2022 also proposes several measures to protect bettors. This includes a self-exclusion program called the National Registry of Prohibited Persons (Renapro), requiring venues to check if anyone attempting to enter a casino is registered. Additionally, the bill outlines the National Policy for the Protection of Players and Bettors, promoting honest conduct in gambling and discouraging compulsive behavior.

The bill introduces new criminal penalties for illegal gambling activities, with up to four years in prison for partaking in or advertising unlicensed games, doubled if minors are involved. Tampering with games or results could lead to up to seven years in prison, with penalties doubled if the victim is elderly, a minor, or registered with Renapro.

Legal and Economic Impact

Federal Supreme Court Minister Flávio Dino indicated that the Supreme Court might eventually need to rule on the constitutionality of this bill due to its potential interface with organized crime. The proposal aims to attract substantial investments, create millions of jobs, and generate significant annual revenue for Brazil.

Since President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva approved Bill 3,626/2023 in December, which legalized sports betting and iGaming, Brazil has been moving rapidly towards establishing a regulated gaming industry. The Ministry of Finance expects sports betting and iGaming to be fully legal by the end of July, currently working on the regulatory policy for technical and security requirements for operators.

Source:

Legalization of casinos and bingos in Brazil could reach the Supreme Court, gamesbras.com, June 21, 2024.

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Station Casinos Gave Workers Free Steaks, Possibly to Sway Union Election

Just a couple of days before Station Casinos workers voted on whether to affiliate with the Culinary Union, management tried to get employees to oppose the union with the lure of tasty food.

A steak dinner
A steak dinner, pictured above, is an example of a meal Station Casinos to its workers before a union vote. (Image: Lana’s Cooking)

The company served the culinary workers more than 500 complimentary steaks in 2019. Each was branded “Vote No!”

The giveaway was in response to workers previously saying the food they had been served in a free buffet wasn’t tasty. Food had become an employee concern.

By giving out the steaks, Station Casinos was hinting meals in the future would improve if the employees rejected the union during the 2019 vote. It turned out, the workers did oppose the union by a 627-534 vote.

Company Must Negotiate

Earlier this week, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) further directed Station Casinos and parent company Red Rock Resorts to recognize and negotiate with the Culinary Union.

Management had taken part in “egregious and pervasive unlawful conduct” leading up to the union vote, the federal panel said.

The NLRB also claimed Station Casinos’ actions “stemmed from a carefully crafted corporate strategy intentionally designed at every step to interfere with employees’ free choice whether or not to select the [Culinary] Union as their collective-bargaining representative,” according to the federal ruling.

In response to the ruling, Culinary Secretary-Treasurer Ted Pappageorge said it “affirms what we have been saying for years — that Station Casinos violated the law and the company must bargain with the union because of its unlawful actions that corrupted the prospect for a free and fair union election.”

Vote Was Fair

Red Rock Resorts spokesman Michael Britt said the 2019 workers’ vote “was a fair outcome that reflected the wishes of a majority of the Red Rock Team Members then and reflects it now,” according to the Las Vegas Independent.

The NLRB’s decision “upheld the findings of its own NLRB hearing officer,” and wasn’t unexpected, Britt added. The company is likely to file an appeal.

The controversy involves three gaming properties, including Red Rock Resort, Palace Station, and Boulder Station.

Decertification By Workers

More than half of the approximately 600 unionized workers at Sunset Station Hotel and Casino reportedly said in April they wanted to drop the Culinary Union as their labor representative.

The employees were in the process of signing a decertification petition, according to Station Casinos. Decertification petitions were previously signed in 2020 by a majority of workers at Boulder Station and Palace Station.

Culinary Workers Union Local 226 and Bartenders Union Local 165, represent some 60K workers in Las Vegas and Reno, including guest room attendants, cocktail and food servers, porters, bellmen, cooks, bartenders, and laundry and kitchen workers.

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