casinos

Florida Cracks Down on Illegal Casinos to Keep the Market Safe

Florida-Cracks-Down-on-Illegal-Casinos-to-Keep-the-Market-Safe Florida’s Gaming Control Commission (FGCC), in collaboration with law enforcement agencies in Brevard and Volusia counties, has taken decisive action against illegal gambling operations. This crackdown led to the closure of five unauthorized casinos and the seizure of over 500 illegal gambling machines, associated equipment, and more than $845,000 in cash.

The seized assets also included a 2022 Chevy Silverado allegedly used to transport cash from the illegal casinos. Criminal charges are expected to follow as investigations continue.

Locations and Additional Seizures

The illegal casinos, all based in Brevard County, Florida, were located at:

190 Malabar Road, Suite 121, Palm Bay
4940 Stack Boulevard, Suite D1-D2, Melbourne
780 Apollo Boulevard, Melbourne
1882 North Wickham Road, Melbourne
950 North Courtenay Parkway, Merritt Island

In a related operation, FGCC agents joined forces with the Port Orange Police Department to address community concerns about two independently owned businesses. These efforts resulted in the seizure of 19 illegal slot and gaming machines and more than $6,000 in cash.

Three individuals were arrested on charges of operating illegal gambling establishments and illegal possession of gaming devices. The targeted businesses were the Stop & Go Convenience Store at 5687 South Ridgewood Avenue and Mark and Jill’s Village Tavern at 5263 South Nova Road in Port Orange.

FGCC Acting Executive Director Ross Marshman emphasized the importance of these efforts, stating, “The cooperative relationships developed between the Florida Gaming Control Commission and our partner law enforcement agencies are essential to fulfill our mission, and these efforts are making an impact. Through innovative strategies, enhanced resources and collaboration, these partnerships reflect our dedication to fostering trust and accountability while effectively addressing public safety concerns related to illicit gambling locations.”

Gambling Laws and Legal Options in Florida

Florida’s gambling regulations allow for limited legal options, primarily centered on operations managed by the Seminole Tribe. In 2021, a 30-year gaming compact granted the tribe exclusive rights to sports betting within the state, allowing bets to be placed at tribal casinos or through the Seminole Tribe’s Hard Rock Bet app. This agreement also enabled the addition of games like craps and roulette at tribal casinos.

Legal gambling in Florida includes:

Sports betting through the Seminole Tribe’s casinos or app
Pari-mutuel gambling, such as horse racing and jai alai
State-run lotteries like Powerball and Mega Millions
Charitable games like bingo and raffles
Casino gambling on Seminole and Miccosukee tribal lands

Betting among friends, while common, is technically illegal unless it involves penny-ante games with winnings not exceeding $10. For those interested in sports betting, only the Hard Rock Bet app is sanctioned for use within the state. Offshore betting platforms operate in a legal gray area and are not officially recognized.

Source:

“Florida gaming regulators, law enforcement shut down illegal casinos”, cdcgaming.com, December 11, 2024.

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Filed Under: Gambling News Tagged With: casinos, cracks, florida, illegal, market

France Proposes Legalization of Online Casinos to Tackle Budget Deficit

Legalising-online-casinos-France-places-a-bet-on-solving-budget-woes The French government is moving toward legalizing online casino games in a bold move aimed at bolstering its state finances and curbing illegal gambling. The proposed amendment, part of the 2025 draft budget, suggests introducing a 55.6% tax on online casino turnover, potentially generating significant revenue for the country.

Addressing France’s Budget Deficit

France’s growing deficit has become a major concern for the government. In 2023, the deficit reached 5.5% of GDP, well above the EU’s target of 3%. The situation could worsen, with 2024 figures expected to exceed 6%. Finance Minister Antoine Armand emphasized that legalizing online casinos could help combat the deficit by contributing valuable tax revenue to the national budget. “Those that exist, which are sometimes operating illegally, must either be closed or regulated or have to contribute,” Armand said in a recent television interview .

The country’s current legal gambling sector generated approximately €13 billion in 2022, according to a PricewaterhouseCoopers report. However, an estimated €748 million to €1.5 billion of gross gaming revenue comes from illegal online casino sites, which the government is hoping to bring under control through regulation .

Fighting Illegal Gambling and Public Health Risks

Legalizing online casinos would not only bring in much-needed revenue but also address the growing problem of illegal gambling. France’s gaming watchdog, l’Autorité nationale des jeux (ANJ), has highlighted the risks posed by unregulated sites, which often operate from tax havens. These illegal platforms expose French citizens to gambling without proper consumer protections, exacerbating addiction risks.

By legalizing and regulating online casino games, the government aims to create a safer gambling environment. Proponents of the law argue that regulation would provide tools to mitigate the public health impacts of problem gambling. This includes measures to protect vulnerable players, which would be implemented in coordination with ANJ and other relevant authorities.

Concerns from Land-Based Casinos

Despite the government’s optimism, the proposal has drawn criticism from the country’s physical casinos. Grégory Rabuel, president of the Casinos de France union, expressed concern about the impact on traditional establishments, warning that legalizing online casinos could result in a 20-30% decline in revenue for land-based casinos. Rabuel also predicted that around 30% of these venues could close, leading to the loss of approximately 15,000 jobs.

In a statement to Les Echos, Rabuel stressed that if online casinos are legalized, they should only operate in partnership with physical casinos to ensure that local businesses and jobs are protected. He called for a cautious approach to prevent weakening France’s existing network of more than 200 land-based casinos .

Moving in Line with EU Neighbors

France and Cyprus remain the only EU member states where online casinos are entirely banned. The French government has pointed out that the new amendment is designed to align France’s regulations with those of its European neighbors. This would bring the country closer to the broader EU trend of regulated online gambling .

Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s administration, which has been keen to address the fiscal challenges facing France, sees the legalization of online casinos as part of a broader strategy to modernize the gaming framework. The move would place France in a stronger position compared to other EU markets, enhancing both its revenue collection and regulatory oversight.

Balancing Revenue and Risk

While there are strong arguments for the potential financial benefits of legalizing online casinos, industry experts warn that this change alone may not entirely eliminate illegal gambling. Elsa Trochet-Macé, a spokesperson for ANJ, pointed out that even with regulation, illegal operators might continue to appeal to a portion of the gambling market, particularly those drawn to riskier or less regulated options. As a result, a careful balance must be struck between generating revenue and ensuring the effectiveness of regulatory efforts.

If passed, the amendment is expected to take effect in 2025, with the hope that it will provide France with a fresh source of tax income while mitigating the risks of unregulated online gambling. Advocates of the measure are confident that it will help address France’s fiscal woes while simultaneously creating a safer environment for online gambling enthusiasts.

Source:

“Legalising Online Casinos: France Places a Bet on Solving Budget Woes“, euronews.com, October 23, 2024.

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Filed Under: Gambling News Tagged With: budget, casinos, deficit, france, legalization, Online, proposes, tackle

Thaksin Shinawatra Confirms Support for Legalized Casinos in Thailand

New-Thai-PMs-influential-father-Thaksin-Shinawatra-confirms-support-for-legalized-casinos In 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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Filed Under: Gambling News Tagged With: casinos, confirms, legalized, shinawatra, support, thailand, thaksin

AGA: Regulators Should Probe Sweepstake Casinos and Sportsbooks

New-anti-sweepstakes-policy-released-by-American-Gaming-Association As 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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Filed Under: Gambling News Tagged With: casinos, probe, regulators, should, sportsbooks,, sweepstake

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.