A cease-and-desist letter has been issued by the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) against Bovada, an offshore online gaming operator registered in Curaçao. The move comes after an investigation found that Bovada.com and Bovada.lv were both available to Michigan residents without proper licensing.

Executive Director Williams Warns Illegal Online Gaming Will Face Strict Enforcement

Executive Director of the MGCB Henry Williams said this was a significant step because regulators around the world have become increasingly concerned with online gaming platforms. He added:  

“This action serves as a stern warning to overseas companies that flouting local regulations will not be tolerated. The MGCB remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding Michigan’s laws and regulations and will continue to actively monitor and enforce compliance within the state to ensure a fair and secure gaming environment for all.”

Bovada is run by Harp Media BV and has been accused of violating several state statutes such as the Lawful Internet Gaming Act and Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act. These laws specify that only internet gambling establishments which are licensed by the state (including federally recognized tribal casinos) may provide such services within Michigan. Running an unlicensed betting operation in this state can lead to imprisonment for up to 10 years or fines amounting to $100,000.

Harp Media BV has 14 days from receipt of notice of the cease-and-desist order issued by MGCB to prevent access to its gambling offerings from any device located anywhere within the geographical boundaries of the state of Michigan. However, should it fail to do so then legal proceedings shall be initiated against them by the MGCB.

MGCB Stresses Consumer Safety in Crackdown on Unlicensed Online Gambling

The MGCB also emphasized the need for consumer protection. The regulator pointed out that unauthorized websites lack the necessary measures specified by Michigan’s rules to assist players in managing their gambling habits. According to the organization, such systems’ absence can pose a significant danger to people with gambling-related problems.

Despite this fact, MGCB cannot directly enforce its rules against a company like Harp Media B.V., which is based outside the country. However, previous experiences show that regulatory pressure may work in this case. 

Last year, Virtual Gaming Worlds stopped operating in Michigan after being warned by regulators about the same issue. 

It is unclear what Bovada will do next given these legal obstacles. The recent action taken by the MGCB is intended to make internet-based gambling more secure and fair, especially for residents within Michigan.

For their part, people living in Michigan should be careful when selecting where they gamble online. The Regulator advises them to only use platforms licensed by the MGCB, a list of which can be found on its website.

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There are a few red flags surrounding how the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) handles confidentiality. People are worried that this might affect the transparency and answerability of the state’s very profitable casino industry. 

Confidentiality Laws Hinder Public Scrutiny of Nevada’s Casinos

Licensing and regulating casinos in Nevada is the duty of the NGCB. It works under laws that make all inquiry files confidential. Critics argue that this provision in the Nevada Revised Statutes does not promote openness within an industry where billions are made.

The Enforcement Division together with the Investigations Division at NGCB perform critical activities like background checks on those seeking licenses as well as looking into crimes committed within or against any gaming establishment licensed by them. Unfortunately, these processes remain undisclosed owing to NRS 463.120 which states that anything connected with gaming inquiries should be kept secret, reported The Las Vegas Review-Journal.

David Cuillier, director of the Brechner Freedom of Information Project, has pointed out that confidentiality laws are problematic. According to Cuillier, such exceptions to open records laws – often aimed at shielding corporate secrets – diminish accountability and thwart public scrutiny. These exceptions, he said, have gradually chipped away at open record laws since the 1970s, making it much harder to get information.

The “confidentiality clause” has been a major point of contention in many high-profile cases. One of them was in regard to Scott Sibella who used to work as an executive with MGM Grand and Resorts World. During the Sibella investigation, when The Las Vegas Review-Journal requested public records concerning the case, the NGCB declined.

One of the things that has been pointed out as frustrating is the lack of openness. For example, Robert “RJ” Cipriani says he informed state agents years ago of unlawful gambling operations in certain casinos but they did nothing about it. 

Equally important, media coverage has been stifled as well in cases such as the one against Steve Wynn for sexual harassment and the unsolved murder of Benjamin “Bugsy” Siegel.

Michael Green who works as an associate history professor at UNLV explained why records have been kept secret from public knowledge until now. When the legislature established the Board back in the 1950s its main purpose was fighting organized crime within gambling houses. Hence these rules were put into place similar to those valid for police investigations requiring levels of proof while maintaining confidentiality too.

However, Cuillier urges for more transparency as he believes that if people do not have access to what they need from government agencies – especially regarding casinos which generate billions every year – then suspicion will start creeping back into everyone’s minds concerning the integrity of the sector.

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Kim Harris Jones is joining the company’s Board of Directors effective from April 29, but still subject to customary regulatory requirements, and she is touted for her in-depth understanding of leadership and steering businesses towards long-term goals.

Influential Leader Joins as 10^th Caesars Board Member

She brings a deep understanding of finance as well as a robust reputation which will help the company strengthen its leadership team and address challenges while also exploring new opportunities. Caesars Entertainment Executive Chairman of the Board Gary Carano has welcomed her appointment praising her outstanding track record.

Harris Jones has worked with various companies across numerous industries, ensuring that they emerge stronger and more capable after she has been part of their leadership team.

She is also on the list of the “100 Most Influential Black Corporate Directors,” a ranking by BoardProspects Magazine as well as “25 Women to Watch” by CFO Magazine. She also made the list of “The 2021 Most Influential Black Corporate Directors” by Savoy and ended on a similar rank list by Black Enterprise Magazine called “75 Most Powerful Women in Business.”

Harris Jones’ career path has taken her to various roles. She worked for Chrysler for 17 years and was appointed to various leadership positions, including SVP and Corporate Controller. She also served at General Motors for six years. Her most recent stints include Mondelez International where she worked as SVP and Corporate Controller in 2015 and she was also part of Kraft Foods as SVP and Corporate Controller as well.

Strategic Oversight and Overall Direction

“With her extensive experience in finance and a reputation as a thoughtful and engaged leader inside some of the largest consumer-packaged goods and automotive companies, Kim’s addition will give us another lens through which to see stronger, more dynamic future possibilities for Caesars Entertainment,” Carano explained.

Harris Jones is also a graduate of the University of Michigan and she currently serves on several other boards, including True Blue, Fossil Group, and United Rentals, as well as the Ethiopian North American Health Professionals Association’s board.

By joining Caesars Entertainment’s board, Harris Jones is effectively becoming the tenth person on the board. She will look to provide the company with strategic direction as well as bring stronger oversight over its current operations.

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Kinectify, a novel gambling risk management tech firm, has unveiled a new investment by Aristocrat Leisure Limited. The investment demonstrates the latter firm’s trust in Kinectify’s solutions and was joined by additional contributions from existing investors.

In addition to the investment by Aristocrat, Kinectify secured backing from a number of companies and organizations, including Acies Investments, the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians, Eilers & Krejcik Gaming and Mark Frissora, Caesars’ former CEO.

This incremental investment from leading companies in the sector demonstrates the gambling industry’s growing demand for tech advancements and risk management solutions. In addition, the move demonstrates the confidence gambling companies have in Kinectify and its products.

As a result of the investment, the tech firm is now poised to drive further innovation and release more AML and responsible gambling solutions.

Kinectify Welcomes Jason Walbridge to the Board

In addition to the investment, Aristocrat’s Jason Walbridge has become a part of Kinectify’s board of directors and will work to further bolster the strategic benefits between the two companies.

Walbridge is an experienced gambling industry executive who boasts over 20 years of experience in the casino and iGaming industries. He first joined Aristocrat in 1997 and held a variety of executive positions at the company, including VP of technology services, VP of operations, SVP of integration and service, SVP of R&D, integration and service, MD for EMEA and chief supply officer. He re-joined Aristocrat in 2022, leveraging his expertise to develop Anaxi, Aristocrat’s online gaming business.

Before re-joining Aristocrat, Walbridge held executive positions at NYX Gaming and SG Digital.

Walbridge’s unparalleled experience would be an important asset to Kinectify, allowing the company to continue driving growth and innovation.

Walbridge commented on his new position, expressing his thrill about joining the Kinectify board. He described Kinectify’s track record as nothing short of impressive.

I am thrilled to work with Kinectify to pioneer innovation in risk management across the gaming ecosystem. I’ve been impressed by Kinectify’s track record so far with its AML and responsible gaming technology, and I’m excited to facilitate deeper collaboration between our companies.

Jason Walbridge, director, Kinectify

In other news, Aristocrat recently expanded its presence in North America thanks to an agreement with Loto-Québec.

In January, Aristocrat also launched a legal claim against Dinh Toan Tran, its game design director, alleging that the man had stolen thousands of files.  

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The Nevada Gaming Control Board’s website has been offline for several days due to a cyberattack. 

Nevada Gaming Control Board Implements Temporary Measures after Cyberattack

Reports indicate that the cyberattack targeted the public-facing websites of both the Nevada Gaming Control Board and the Nevada Gaming Commission, the bodies responsible for regulating the state’s gaming industry. 

The affected website contained various essential information such as agency meeting agendas, gaming regulations, press releases, public statistics, contact details, and biographies of board and commission members.

Fortunately, gaming license details and financial records were stored on a separate internal state agency system, ensuring their protection from the cyberattack. 

The Nevada Gaming Control Board released a statement via its social media channels, confirming the incident and outlining the steps taken to mitigate the damage. According to the statement, immediate measures were initiated to safeguard the website by taking it offline. 

The board is currently collaborating with cybersecurity experts to thoroughly assess the situation. In the meantime, preparations are underway to publish a temporary website for individuals seeking access to information.

Nevada Gaming Control Board Takes Steps Against Cyber Threats

It is worth noting that the cyberattack seems to have exclusively targeted the gaming control board’s website, with no reported impact on other state agencies, which continue to operate normally. Even the monthly meeting of the Nevada Gaming Commission proceeded as scheduled, with no mention of the incident.

This cyberattack follows closely on the heels of high-profile attacks on major casino operators in Nevada, including MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment, last September. These attacks resulted in significant financial losses and reputational damage to the affected companies.

In Nevada District Court, customers of Caesars Entertainment and MGM Resorts International even initiated five class-action lawsuits. These suits allege that the casino companies neglected to safeguard crucial customer data during the cyberattacks, contrary to Federal Trade Commission guidelines. 

Last June, Nevada lawmakers approved funds for upgrading the Nevada Gaming Control Board’s information technology system, a move aimed at replacing the outdated system from the 1980s. This system, separate from the website, plays a crucial role in running board functions. The upgrade was deemed necessary to ensure the security and efficiency of the board’s operations in the face of evolving cyber threats.

As inquiries into the recent cyberattack progress, stakeholders express optimism that actions will be implemented to strengthen the cybersecurity framework, thereby protecting against potential disruptions to essential state operations in the future.

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Joni M. Thrower Davis and Andrew T. Palms were reappointed as board members of the gambling regulator in Michigan, the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB), by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. Earlier this week, MGCB’s executive director, Henry Williams, confirmed the reappointment of the two.

Initially, Palms was appointed to the MGCB by the now-former Gov. Rick Snyder back in 2012. Considering his reappointment, he enters his 12th year as a member of the board of the gambling regulator. On the other hand, Davis first joined the MGCB as a board member at the start of 2020 after she was selected as the successor of Patrick M. McQueen. The reappointment starts Davis’ second four-year term.

According to the MGCB, the two board members were reappointed for a term that is set to expire on December 31, 2027. Currently, the board of the gambling regulator consists of five members who are residents of the state and are appointed by the Governor. Per the existing rules, one of the members is designated as a chairperson, a role that is currently held by Linda Forte. The recent reappointments reinstated Davis and Palms to the board who join Deidre A. Lambert-Bounds, another board member, while one member spot remains vacant.

The Duo Will Continue to Assist the Regulator

Palms, a Chelsea resident, currently holds a bachelor’s degree of general studies in computer science, business and engineering from the University of Michigan. For more than 30 years, he has worked at the university and currently serves as the executive director of ITS Infrastructure.

On the other hand, Davis is a Detroit resident. She holds a Juris Doctor from Emory University School of Law along with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan. Davis is currently a managing partner for Jamjomar while at the same time operating and owning four McDonald’s restaurants located in Detroit’s metropolitan area.

“I appreciate Governor Whitmer’s decision to reappoint Joni and Andrew to the Board, which is well-deserved recognition of their dedication, expertise, and valuable contributions to our agency’s mission and vision.“

Henry Williams, executive director of the MGCB

Williams praised Gov. Whitmer’s decision to reappoint both Palms and Davis to MGCB’s board. He recognized their extensive expertise and dedication, making them invaluable assets to the regulator.

Williams predicted that the MGCB’s board will continue to make effective decisions and remain stable, boosted by the duo’s appointments. Finally, he said that the gambling regulator will continue to tackle emerging challenges within the sector across Michigan.

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The Curaçao Gaming Control Board announced that it has added Cedric Pietersz to its supervisory board. The appointee will serve as the board’s new managing director from February 1, 2024, the body added.

Pietersz lacks prior experience in the gambling industry but boasts over 20 decades of experience in the fields of management and supervision. Prior to his current appointment, the man worked for Centrale Bank van Curaçao en Sint Maarten where he cultivated a lot of regulatory experience.

In his new position, Pietersz will be tasked with monitoring all licensing activity that takes place under the National Ordinance on Offshore Games of Hazard. He will leverage his experience in regulatory and anti-money laundering matters to ensure that everything aligns with the law and will also oversee the territory’s transition to the National Ordinance for Games of Chance (LOK).

Pietersz Joins at a Very Dynamic Time

Pietersz is looking forward to joining the regulatory authority and helping it open a new chapter. The hire released a statement on the matter, saying that he is honored to be joining the Gaming Control Board at such a “dynamic time.”

I am confident that together with the team and the supervisory board we will strategically steer the GCB into a new era while delivering value to all stakeholders including the minister of finance.

Cedric Pietersz, managing director of the Curaçao Gaming Control Board supervisory board

The new director was welcomed on board by Fons Simon, the supervisory board chairman. Simons confirmed that the new appointment will enable to regulator to usher in a new era of regulation.

The GCB is at a pivotal juncture and Cedric’s appointment marks the start of a transformative era.

Fons Simon, chair of the Curaçao Gaming Control Board supervisory board

Simon concluded that Pietersz boasts a proven track record in the financial sector and is well-versed in regulatory and anti-money laundering matters. Thanks to that, he will bring in a mix of strategic foresight, regulatory understanding and operational experience.

In the meantime, Curaçao’s Independent Advisory Body just raised concerns about the text of the LOK and its compliance with FATF’s AML requirements.

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The New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement has published the December 2023 total gaming revenue results. According to the regulator, the state’s gambling operators reported year-to-date revenue of almost $5.8 billion.

Segment by segment, New Jersey’s nine casino hotel properties earned $232.4 million for December 2023. This, according to the authority, reflects a year-on-year increase of 7.8%. In the meantime, year-to-date casino win for New Jersey’s nine casinos stood at $2.85 billion, reflecting growth of 2.2% compared to $2.79 billion for the prior year-to-date period.

Revenue from the online casino segment also increased. In December, The Garden State’s casinos and their online partners reported an internet gaming win of $180.3 million. This figure represents a 19.1% year-on-year growth, exceeding December 2022’s results by almost $30 million. For the year-to-date period, internet gaming win stood at $1.92 billion. This reflects a stellar year-on-year increase of 15.7%. For reference, New Jersey’s operators reported an internet gaming win of $1.66 billion for the prior year-to-date period.

The most significant revenue increase, however, was recorded by the sports betting segment. The vertical recorded revenue of $109.4 million for December 2023, reflecting a 24.8% increase compared to the $87.7 million posted in December 2022. In the meantime, the year-to-date period demonstrates an increase of 31.9% year-on-year to $1.01 billion. For comparison, the state’s sportsbooks recorded revenue of $763 million in the prior year-to-date period.

All Verticals Experienced Some Growth

New Jersey’s casinos, racetracks and their partners reported $522.2 million in total gaming revenue for December 2023. This figure translates to an increase of 14.8% from the $454.8 million reported in December 2022.

As mentioned, the year-to-date total gaming revenue in the state stood at $5.78 billion. This figure, representing the results of The Garden State’s casinos, racetracks and their partners, reflects an increase of 10.9% from the $5.21 billion reported in the prior year-to-date period.

New Jersey Casino Workers Continue to Fight for a Healthier Workplace

In the meantime, New Jersey’s casino workers continue their fight for a smoke-free work environment. As the state heads into 2024, proponents of a smoking ban hope to finally make a breakthrough and fix the loophole that exempts casinos from the Smoke-Free Air Act.

To that end, Senator Joe Vitale, a firm supporter of such a measure, introduced Senate Bill 1493. The bill is backed by 18 out of 40 senators.

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Notably, Seamus McGill has confirmed that he will be stepping down as chairman of the board and he will be succeeded by David Goldberg in the important position as the holiday season is now set in.

GAN Executes Quick Staff Change at the Top During Holiday Season

McGill’s decision to step down comes after GAN, a B2B technology provider for the iGaming industry, has confirmed that it has entered a definitive agreement to merge with Sega Sammy Creation, owned by Sega Sammy Holdings. McGill will continue to serve as an interim CEO following the departure of Dermot Smurfit.

Besides McGill, the company has also confirmed that Michael Smurfit will step down from the Board of Directors with effect from December 31, 2023. Michael Smurfit added, commenting on his withdrawal as well as the pending merger with Sega Sammy Creation:

With the strategic review concluded, I feel that now is the appropriate time for me to step down from the board of directors. I am fully supportive of the transaction with Sega Sammy Creation and look forward to a timely closing.

Michael Smurfit

Furthermore, GAN has also appointed David D. Ross to the Board of Directors, replacing its ranks. He will be chairman of GAN’s audit committee, and his appointment has been welcomed by Goldenberg, who said that Ross brought more than 35 years of experience in various positions and he has served as both executive and director across the gaming and hospitality sector, giving him a very good background to now be part of GAN.

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Super Group (SGHC) Limited, a leading betting and gaming company, has recently announced the resignation of John Collins from its Board of Directors, effective 31 December 2023. Collins’s decision to step down relates to his investment in a National Hockey League (NHL) team. However, Super Group stressed that the two parties did not have any disagreements regarding the company’s practices.

The Departure Should Not Affect Current Operations

Collins is currently the chairman of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of the Board and a member of the Audit Committee of the Board. Jonathan Jossel, who joined the company in May 2022, will take up the former position, ensuring Super Group can maintain its operations without disruptions.

Collins has been an integral part of Super Group’s growth and an influential figure during a year marked by significant development for the company. His departure comes at a time of impressive growth. In its recent third-quarter report, Super Group disclosed revenue of €356.9 million ($381.4 million), a notable 16% year-on-year increase.

The company attributed this growth to its expanding operations in Europe, North America, Africa, and the Middle East, despite declines in markets like South/Latin America and Asia-Pacific. Neal Menashe, CEO of Super Group, highlighted the remarkable third-quarter revenue, record monthly active customers, and predicted further expansion within the global iGaming sector for the company.

Collins Will Leverage His Sports Management Expertise

Collins’s decision to step down from his position on the Super Group board likely stems from his increasing focus on his interests within the NHL. He joined the New York Islanders ownership group in July 2023 as the Operating Partner for the Club. Collins’s rich history within the League shows his enduring dedication to the sport, and he will likely continue with his contributions.

Collins is more than qualified for his management position with the Islanders, drawing on his experience as COO of the National Hockey League, President and CEO of the Cleveland Browns, and a senior executive at the National Football League for fifteen seasons. He has been responsible for some pioneering developments within the NHL, and his business acumen will be invaluable to the team.

Collins’s decision to focus on his involvement in the NHL marks a transition for Super Group, which continues its trajectory of growth and expansion in the dynamic betting and gaming industry. While Super Group loses a seasoned industry veteran, it has the talent to ensure enduring success. Meanwhile, Collins is now free to pursue his priorities.

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