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Reno’s Grand Sierra Resort Agrees to $250K Settlement With Nevada Gaming Commission

The Grand Sierra Resort in Reno has agreed to pay the Nevada Gaming Commission (NGC) a quarter of a million dollars to settle a regulatory complaint stemming from an incident last year.

Grand Sierra Resort Nevada Gaming Commission
The Grand Sierra Resort in Reno has agreed to pay $250K to settle a regulatory complaint brought by the Nevada Gaming Control Board. This week, the Nevada Gaming Commission signed off on the resolution. (Image: Grand Sierra Resort)

The Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) brought a complaint against MEI-GSR Holdings, LLC, doing business as the Grand Sierra Resort, after one of its agents reported being denied prompt access to the property’s Grand Theatre during a routine inspection.

Michael Somps, a senior deputy attorney general in the Nevada Attorney General’s Office who represented the state in the matter, told the NGC that a Gaming Enforcement Division agent arrived at the Reno casino on Dec. 19, 2023. During the agent’s inspection, casino security approached the agent after he bypassed a metal detector outside the theater’s entrance.

Casino security told the agent, who had his NGCB badge and credentials displayed, that he had to relinquish his firearm before entering the theater. After about six minutes, higher-ups with the resort informed the security personnel that the gaming agent could enter the theater with his weapon.

Rare Occurrence

All establishments licensed by the Nevada Gaming Commission are subjected to routine inspections. State gaming agents are to have immediate and full access to “all portions of the premises,” with the definition of premises being “curb to curb,” said Somps.

The senior deputy attorney general explained that gaming agents review areas off of the casino floor to ensure that no illegal gambling or other unlawful activity is occurring inside the licensed gaming facility.

While a brief delay for access is sometimes common, a delay of six minutes, which the agent disputed and said was longer, is an outlier according to Somps. Paired with a similar incident in 2021 where a third-party security guard hired by the Grand Sierra blocked a gaming agent’s immediate access until he was wanded, Somps said a $250K penalty against the resort was warranted.

Licensees have a long history of complying and granting Board agents immediate access to all portions of the premises. The Board views the Grand Sierra Resort’s violation seriously and maintains that licensees and their employees understand that any Board agent be given immediate access to any portion of the premises of the gaming establishment after they display their credentials,” Somps said.

The Meruelo Group, the parent owner of the Grand Sierra Resort controlled by billionaire Alex Meruelo, did not contest the fine in agreeing to settle the complaint.

The $250K fine comes just days after Meruelo’s Grand Sierra donated $15K each to the Robert Mitchell Elementary School and Vaughn Middle School, both of which are part of the Washoe County School District.

Where the Money Goes 

The Nevada Gaming Commission and Gaming Control Board are responsible for the strict regulation of all persons, locations, practices, and activities associated with the state’s gaming industry. Nevada’s gaming law allows the NGC to impose fines on licensees found to be non-compliant with its regulations.

Fines received by the state gaming agency are directed to the Nevada General Fund. The $250K fine against Grand Sierra slightly offsets another decision made on Monday that determined that Nevada Restaurant Services Inc., the parent of Dotty’s gaming taverns, was owed a $3 million tax refund.

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Macau’s New Illegal Gaming Law Comes Into Effect

Macaus-Illegal-Gaming-Law-comes-into-effect-on-Tuesday-after-being-officially-announcedMacau’s newly enacted Illegal Gaming Law has officially come into effect as of October 29, 2024, following its announcement in the Official Gazette. The law, which passed its final vote in the Macau Legislative Assembly on October 16 and was signed by the President of the Assembly, Kou Hoi In, marks a robust shift in Macau’s approach to tackling illegal gambling. The comprehensive legislation introduces strict penalties for various illicit practices, including “betting under the table” and unauthorized money exchanges, expanding the range of investigatory powers available to law enforcement agencies.

Strict Penalties for Side Betting and Unauthorized Currency Exchange

One of the law’s main provisions targets “betting under the table,” also known as side betting, a practice prevalent in Macau’s casino industry. This provision introduces penalties of up to eight years imprisonment for those found participating in or facilitating these activities. Additionally, the law extends to individuals who engage in any form of illegal gambling, with penalties of up to six months in prison for merely placing a wager in an unlicensed game.

The legislation also cracks down on illegal currency exchange operations within Macau’s integrated resorts, which include casinos and their surrounding areas. Often associated with “money exchange gangs,” these unauthorized exchanges have posed challenges for Macau’s regulatory environment. Individuals caught conducting unlicensed foreign exchange transactions for gambling purposes can now face up to five years in prison, a measure intended to disrupt the money exchange networks that have often exploited Macau’s gaming sector.

Enhanced Investigative Authority for Law Enforcement

Under the new law, Macau’s Judiciary Police will have expanded investigative tools to enforce gambling regulations more effectively. Law enforcement officers are now authorized to conduct undercover operations and perform night-time searches when investigating illegal gambling activities. These undercover operations allow agents to act without fear of prosecution for actions taken within the scope of their investigations, provided they do not incite criminal acts. However, informants’ identities will remain protected unless a court determines that their testimony was intentionally misleading, thereby safeguarding the integrity of the evidence gathered.

Furthermore, the law lifts the previous restriction on night-time domicile searches for suspected offenses related to illegal gambling, allowing authorities to conduct such searches between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. for cases involving illicit betting and mutual betting. This amendment acknowledges the nocturnal nature of gambling crimes in Macau, enabling a more responsive approach to enforcement during peak times for such activities.

Addressing Emerging Forms of Illegal Gambling

Macau’s new legal framework not only strengthens penalties for traditional forms of illicit gambling but also criminalizes online gambling, illegal mutual betting, and unlicensed lotteries. The inclusion of a provision against “illegal online gambling” reflects the government’s determination to keep all gambling activities strictly regulated and confined to licensed establishments. The law categorizes online gambling as any game of chance or mutual betting conducted remotely or electronically, thus ensuring that the prohibition encompasses all digital platforms, regardless of physical location.

Additionally, the law defines penalties for the unauthorized operation of mutual betting pools and lotteries, imposing fines or prison terms of up to three years for those found operating illegal lotteries. This includes the illegal sale of lottery tickets like Hong Kong’s Mark Six lottery, which has historically been popular in Macau.

Corporate Liability and Implications for Casino Operators

Significantly, the legislation expands accountability beyond individuals to corporations and other legal entities engaged in illegal gambling activities. Companies that are facilitating unlicensed gambling can now face fines of up to MOP 18 million (approximately $2.25 million) and, in some cases, judicial dissolution. The law also permits authorities to hold company representatives, such as directors and managers, personally responsible for fines imposed on their businesses if they are proven to have participated in the offense.

As Macau seeks to uphold a tightly regulated gaming industry, implementing the Illegal Gaming Law represents a milestone in the region’s efforts to combat unauthorized gambling. The measures are part of a broader crackdown following high-profile cases involving junket operators such as Alvin Chau and Levo Chan, who were implicated in illicit betting activities. By expanding enforcement powers and tightening penalties, Macau’s government aims to curb illegal gambling operations and protect the integrity of its casino sector.

Sources:

Macau’s Illegal Gaming Law Comes Into Effect on Tuesday after Being Officially Announced, asgam.com, October 29, 2024.

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AGA, ECA, and BGC Join Forces to Tackle Global Gaming Challenges

American-Gaming-Association-European-Casino-Association-and-Betting-Gaming-Council-Forge-Strategic-Dialogue-to-Address-Global-Gaming-ChallengesIn a significant move for the global gaming industry, the American Gaming Association (AGA), European Casino Association (ECA), and Betting & Gaming Council (BGC) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at addressing shared challenges. The agreement, announced today, signifies a collaborative effort to confront key issues like illegal gambling, responsible gaming, industry innovation, and security. By pooling resources and expertise, the three organizations are committed to advancing the legal gaming industry and protecting consumers worldwide.

Bill Miller, President and CEO of the AGA, emphasized the importance of the new partnership, stating, “This new partnership is a significant step forward in our collective efforts to advance the legal gaming industry and protect consumers around the globe.” He noted that the collaboration would help expand efforts to combat illegal gambling, strengthen responsible gaming practices, and promote innovative business solutions. According to Miller, this dialogue across borders is essential for safeguarding the integrity of the industry and ensuring its continued growth.

Strengthening Industry Collaboration

The MOU establishes a framework for joint research projects and facilitates knowledge-sharing between the organizations’ members. This collaboration will enable the associations to tackle industry challenges more effectively by leveraging each group’s unique strengths and resources.

Erwin van Lambaart, Chairman of the European Casino Association, expressed the ECA’s strong support for the initiative, saying, “The ECA fully backs this initiative and supports the ongoing efforts to rigorously combat illegality within our industry, continuously strengthen player protections and security, and ensure the creation of an environment that fosters innovation and growth within the gaming community.”

One of the partnership’s first major initiatives will be a law enforcement roundtable in January 2025 addressing illegal gambling. The event will gather industry leaders, law enforcement officials, and regulators to discuss the effects of illegal gambling on the legal industry, consumer protection, and global financial systems. The roundtable will also explore ways to improve cross-jurisdictional communication and develop actionable strategies to mitigate the risks posed by unregulated gambling.

A Shared Vision for Responsible Gaming

Betting and Gaming Council CEO Grainne Hurst highlighted the importance of the collaboration in enhancing safer gambling standards. “This partnership marks a new chapter in our shared vision to build a world-class, trusted, and sustainable betting and gaming industry,” she said. Hurst praised the reputation of BGC members as global leaders in the field and pointed out that working together with the AGA and ECA would be critical in tackling the growing unregulated gambling black market, particularly in the UK.

The MOU emphasizes the shared commitment of the three organizations to ensure a sustainable and responsible gaming industry. By addressing challenges like illegal gambling and enhancing security measures, the partnership aims to protect consumers and promote a healthy gaming ecosystem. Each organization brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the table, further strengthening the industry’s efforts to combat illegal activities and foster responsible growth.

With the MOU in place, the AGA, ECA, and BGC are taking a proactive stance on some of the most pressing challenges facing the global gaming industry. Through ongoing dialogue, joint initiatives, and shared expertise, this partnership is poised to drive meaningful progress in the areas of responsible gaming, security, and innovation. The upcoming law enforcement roundtable in 2025 will be a crucial first step in the fight against illegal gambling, setting the tone for future collaborations.

As the global gaming industry continues to evolve, partnerships like this one will play a vital role in ensuring its continued success. By working together, the AGA, ECA, and BGC are not only addressing current challenges but also paving the way for a more secure, responsible, and innovative future.

Source:

“American Gaming Association, European Casino Association, and Betting & Gaming Council Forge Strategic Dialogue to Address Global Gaming Challenges“ Betting and Gaming Council, October 10, 2024.

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Leading Trade Groups Announce Partnership to Address Issues Facing Global Gaming Industry

Three of the world’s most prominent trade groups representing the interests of gaming operators in the United States, United Kingdom, and Europe have announced a pact.

gaming trade groups AGA American Gaming Association
(L to R) Graine Hurst, CEO of the Betting & Gaming Council, American Gaming Association President and CEO Bill Miller, and European Casino Association Chair Erwin Van Lambaart sign a pact to collaborate on addressing issues facing the global gaming industry. The landmark memorandum of understanding was signed at the 2024 Global Gaming Expo in Las Vegas on Oct. 9, 2024. (Image: American Gaming Association)

On Wednesday, the American Gaming Association, the UK’s Betting & Gaming Council, and the European Casino Association announced a memorandum of understanding that marks the beginning of a cross-Atlantic collaboration to share industry values and priorities. The three organizations each committed to addressing key matters facing the global gaming industry, including ongoing efforts to stop illegal gambling and promote responsible gaming, innovation, and casino security.

This new partnership is a significant step forward in our collective efforts to advance the legal gaming industry and protect consumers around the globe,” said AGA President and CEO Bill Miller. “By sharing our unique resources, we will expand our fight against illegal gambling to new fronts, work together to strengthen responsible gaming, and innovate around business best practices.”

The collaborative announcement came during the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) that is currently being held at The Venetian Expo in Las Vegas. The event concludes today.

Research Focus

The three trade groups, which promote laws and regulations favorable to the casinos and gaming operators they represent, say their alignment will better foster the development of joint research and expedite the implementation of new best practices.

The first initiative, the groups said, will be a law enforcement roundtable in January 2025. The discussion will center on how illegal gambling impacts the regulated industry and puts consumers at risk.

The session will explore strategies to enhance cross-jurisdictional communication and the development of “actionable solutions” to address the challenges associated with illegal gambling, a statement regarding the collaboration explained.

Gaming Getting Younger

The global gaming industry is richer than ever before. In 2023, the US, the richest gaming country in the world, generated almost $110 billion in gross gaming revenue (GGR) from commercial and tribal gaming operations.

Gaming continues to expand worldwide. The United Arab Emirates’ forthcoming casino industry is projected to add up to $5 billion annually in new GGR, while new casinos in the Philippines, Vietnam, and South Korea additionally continue to open.

Macau’s COVID-19 recovery is ongoing. In the US, casinos continue to debut in jurisdictions like Virginia and Illinois, and the global industry’s eyes are heavily fixated on the impending integrated casino resort developments in New York City.

Miller said at G2E this week that the gaming demographic, at least stateside, is finally trending younger. After years of toying with new ideas, including electronic games that included skill elements, as millennials were thought not to enjoy slots nearly as much as their parents and grandparents, Miller says the industry’s innovators have finally found new ways to appeal to younger people. Sports betting has also helped.

A decade ago, the gaming industry was trying to figure out why we weren’t appealing to younger generations. The mantra back then was, well, we’ll get them when they’re 50,” Miller explained.

Miller detailed that the average age of a casino patron in 2019 was 50. Today, it’s 42.

“This is a huge shift,” Miller said. “It’s one that we need to keep driving to stay on the growth trajectory.”

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Wynn Resorts Secures UAE’s First Commercial Gaming License

UAE-issues-first-commercial-gaming-licence-to-Wynn-ResortsWynn Resorts has made history by becoming the first company to receive a commercial gaming license in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). On October 4, the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) granted Wynn the license for its ongoing project on Al Marjan Island, located in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK).

The license will allow Wynn to operate a land-based casino as part of the massive Wynn Al Marjan Island Resort, which is expected to open in 2027. This luxury development is a joint venture between Wynn Resorts, Marjan, and RAK Hospitality Holding.

In a statement, Wynn Resorts expressed gratitude to the GCGRA, saying, “We are under way with the construction of our resort in Ras Al Khaimah and look forward to being a key partner in the development of its tourism economy.” The company also thanked the GCGRA for the confidence and trust placed in them with the approval of this license.

A Major Milestone for Gaming in the Middle East

Wynn’s Al Marjan Island project will be the first integrated gaming resort in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Spanning over 62 hectares on a man-made island, the project is located just 15 minutes from Ras Al Khaimah International Airport and 45 minutes from Dubai. It will offer more than just gaming, with plans for over 1,000 hotel rooms, convention facilities, luxury shopping, and high-end dining options.

Craig Billings, CEO of Wynn Resorts, described Al Marjan Island as an ideal location for this landmark development, calling it a “pristine setting” for Wynn to deliver its signature luxurious guest experiences.

The project is set to boost Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism industry, with Abdulla Al Abdooli, CEO of Marjan, emphasizing that Wynn’s reputation for creating world-class resorts will help attract visitors to the region. Al Abdooli said, “We are partnering with Wynn Resorts, one of the world’s most renowned integrated resort companies, which has a strong track record of developing luxury destinations with exceptional accommodation, dining, entertainment concepts, and gaming facilities.”

Other Operators Eyeing Opportunities

Wynn’s milestone comes just weeks after MGM Resorts CEO Bill Hornbuckle announced that his company had filed for a license to develop a gaming project in Abu Dhabi https://news.worldcasinodirectory.com/mgm-resorts-leads-the-charge-for-casino-licensing-in-the-uae-application-confirmed-115267. Speaking at the Skift Global Forum in New York City, Hornbuckle revealed that MGM applied for the license on September 19.

With the UAE’s commercial gaming landscape expanding, more global gaming giants may soon enter the market. For now, Wynn Resorts is leading the charge, with its Al Marjan Island resort expected to set a new standard for luxury hospitality in the region.

A First for UAE’s Gaming Sector

The GCGRA defines commercial gaming as games that involve a combination of skill and chance, where players wager money or equivalents to win cash or prizes. Wynn’s license is the first to be awarded for a land-based gaming facility in the UAE. However, the GCGRA previously issued a license for the country’s first authorized lottery earlier this year.

Wynn Al Marjan Island’s non-gaming amenities are also set to impress, featuring over 1,500 rooms and suites, a collection of 22 dining and lounge experiences, a sprawling pool complex, luxury shopping, and state-of-the-art meeting spaces. The resort will be topped off by 2025, with full operations expected to begin by 2027.

Source:

Wynn Resorts Announces Receipt of Gaming Operator License for Wynn Al Marjan Island, press.wynnalmarjan.com, October 5, 2024.

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