At a recent meeting with Nevada regulators, Konami Group Chairman Higashio Kimihiko expressed confidence that the gaming industry has fully bounced back from the setbacks caused by the pandemic. Appearing before the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB), Kimihiko underscored the industry’s robust recovery and outlined Konami’s role in adapting to post-pandemic challenges.

Konami’s Kimihiko Touts Company’s Strength at Nevada Regulator Hearing

Kimihiko, who has been at the helm of Konami since 2020, addressed the NGCB through an interpreter. He acknowledged the impact of the pandemic but emphasized that the market has regained its strength, reported CDC Gaming. He was last approved for licensing by Nevada regulators in 2013, and this recent appearance was part of a routine licensing process. The NGCB’s recommendation for approval will advance to the Nevada Gaming Commission for final consideration later this month.

In his discussion with NGCB Chairman Kirk Hendrick, Kimihiko supported the state’s efforts to accelerate the introduction of gaming products to the market. Hendrick highlighted the state’s commitment to aiding companies in swiftly delivering new technologies to customers, a sentiment that Kimihiko endorsed.

NGCB member George Assad praised Kimihiko’s impressive background, noting his progression within Konami from an engineering MBA graduate to his current leadership position.

NGCB Approves Caesars Entertainment’s CIO Rajendran Anbalagan

During the same meeting, the NGCB also reviewed and recommended the approval of Rajendran Anbalagan as the chief information and product transformation officer for Caesars Entertainment. Anbalagan, who took on this role 11 months ago, has a background in digital and technology roles, including a stint at Panera Bread as senior vice president.

Despite his limited experience in the gaming industry, Anbalagan described himself as a “computer geek” who is eager to tackle the challenges of his new position. He addressed the cybersecurity incident that Caesars experienced last fall, assuring the NGCB that the company has been proactive in strengthening its defenses. Anbalagan detailed how Caesars has increased collaboration with cybersecurity partners and hired a new chief information security officer to enhance their protective measures.

Hendrick echoed the importance of cybersecurity, noting that the NGCB itself faced a cyberattack in January. He emphasized the government’s commitment to safeguarding its systems and praised Anbalagan for his efforts to protect customer and employee information.

Anbalagan also touched on his role in product transformation, emphasizing the need for a seamless guest experience through advanced technology. Board member Brittnie Watkins commended his hands-on approach and looked forward to the innovations he would bring to the industry.

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The appointment of Jim Murren as the Chairman of the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the development of the Wynn Al Marjan Island casino resort in Ras Al Khaimah signal a significant shift in the UAE’s approach to gambling and commercial gaming activities.

Murren, who previously served as the Chairman and CEO of MGM Resorts International, brings a wealth of experience in the gaming industry to his role as Chairman of GCGRA. His appointment suggests that the UAE is serious about establishing a regulatory framework for lottery and commercial gaming activities, indicating a willingness to embrace these forms of entertainment.

The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority’s goal is to create a comprehensive regulatory framework for lottery and commercial gaming in the UAE. This framework will likely include guidelines and regulations for casino resorts, gambling establishments, and related activities.

he development of Wynn Al Marjan Island, a casino resort with an estimated value of $3.9 billion, is a clear indication of the UAE’s commitment to entering the gaming and entertainment industry. Wynn Resorts Ltd., a well-known player in the global gaming industry, will oversee the management of this resort, further signaling the UAE’s intent to attract international gaming operators.

The optimism expressed by Wynn Resorts CEO Craig Billings during the second-quarter earnings call suggests that there is confidence in obtaining a gaming license for Ras Al Khaimah. This is a positive development for both the casino industry and the UAE’s efforts to expand its entertainment offerings.

The UAE has been traditionally conservative in its approach to gambling, with strict laws against it. However, recent efforts to allow alcohol consumption and permit cohabitation for couples indicate a broader shift towards a more open and liberal approach to certain aspects of lifestyle and entertainment.

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Kindbridge, the mental health care provider for distressed and disordered gamblers, announced the appointment of the former president of the Colorado Gaming Association, David Jacques Farahi, as executive chairman of the Board of Directors.

Help Build State-Level Relationships

The appointment of Farahi is expected to further Kindbridge’s expansion in the US by bringing his knowledge of the gambling industry, governmental and regulatory relations, to help it build relationships at the state level and provide more comprehensive care services for gamblers.

Daniel Umfleet, founder and chief executive officer of Kindbridge, expressed his excitement to have Farahi on board, pointing to his credentials that made him a perfect fit for the role and full confidence that this appointment would be key to fulfilling the company’s mission.

“His expertise and leadership will be instrumental in advancing our mission to provide the highest quality behavioral health services to those in need,” Umfleet said.

From his previous roles as a chief operating officer of Monarch Casino & Resort and executive chairman of slot analytics provider, Quick Custom Intelligence, Farahi brings a wealth of gambling industry knowledge and experience to the position.

“I am thrilled to join the Kindbridge team and to be a part of their mission to improve the lives of people struggling with gambling and gaming disorders,” Farahi said, eager to start leveraging his gaming and healthcare industry experience “to help Kindbridge continue to innovate and provide the highest quality care for its patients.”

Leverage a Data-Driven Approach

Throughout his professional career, Farahi keenly demonstrated his ability to deliver guest experience improvements via a data-driven approach, as well as a wide range of skills in government relations, investor relations, and healthcare.

Currently licensed in dozens of US gaming jurisdictions, Kindbridge will be relying on his expertise in these areas to further its mission and advance consumer protections nationwide by embedding mental health services into the casino industry’s player journey.

Farahi also has legislative experience, having served as president of the Colorado Gaming Association from 2015 to 2021, where he was instrumental in the legislative agenda of the industry in Colorado, including three statewide ballot initiatives.

His other public and professional involvements include being a trustee of the Saint Joseph Hospital Foundation since 2020, a trustee of the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, and a member of the Young President’s Organization.

Last year, Kindbridge announced a ground-breaking mental health program in partnership with the NFL Players Association’s Professional Athletes Foundation aimed at improving the mental health resilience of players and providing vital mental health education.

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The global gaming and entertainment industry giant, Flutter Entertainment, confirmed recently that it identified the best strategy for delivering interest for its shareholders. At the time, FTSE 100-listed company confirmed its plans for an additional listing of stocks in the United States.

That plan comes at a time when the company’s entertainment and sports betting brand, FanDuel, continues to hold a significant market share in the US. Flutter’s Board identified that a US listing, in addition to the one in the UK, would help boost the presence of the company in the US and positively impact the retention and recruitment of employees.

Additionally, Flutter said that the US listing will give “the Group access to much deeper capital markets, and to new US domestic investors” and provide overall greater liquidity of its shares. Such a listing would also mark an important first step for the company considering it decides the US to remain a primary listing.

The Company Explores Opportunities for a New Chairman

Now, a new report suggests that the gambling company behind Paddy Power is in talks about hiring a new chairman. That strategic hire may also contribute to the plan for the US listing, announced by Flutter recently. According to Sky News, the company is in “advanced talks” with John Bryant, a proven expert in leading US-based companies, to appoint him to the role of chairman.

Reportedly, that strategic hire may also impact the company’s UK listing. If that happens, Flutter may consider abandoning its presence on the London stock market and strengthening its US-facing presence via a primary listing. Bryant will likely play a key role in the process and that’s no surprise, considering his extensive experience in leading US businesses.

Besides an Australian, Bryant also has American citizenship and spends a lot of his time in the US. What’s more, he is currently a part of the Board of multiple companies including Ball Corporation, Macy’s Inc, as well as Coca-Cola Europacific Partners. What makes his appointment even more plausible is that two of the companies where Bryant is part of the Board, Macy’s Inc. and Ball Corporation, currently trade in the US.

Still, it’s important to mention that Flutter is yet to officially confirm who its new chairman may be. At the same time, the company hasn’t yet revealed whether or not its US listing will impact its UK listing. Later this month, Flutter will hold its annual investor meeting. During the meeting, shareholders are likely to vote for the company’s proposal for a US listing but an announcement about the new chairman isn’t impossible.

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The company is experiencing significant hardships after losing its New South Wales and Queensland licenses, owing hundreds of millions in fines and facing several class action lawsuits. Foster’s appointment is part of an ongoing process to remedy the company’s shortcomings, ensure compliance and contest unjust allegations. The new chairman remains optimistic regarding the company’s future as he helps foster a new chapter for the group.

The Operator Is Scrambling to Reform

The past year has not been kind to the once-leading Australian casino operator. A 2021 investigation by The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age, and 60 Minutes revealed severe AML failings and possible ties to terrorist organizations. An official probe soon followed, confirming that The Star had severely and systematically violated numerous regulations. An apathetic response only worsened the situation, drawing the ire of authorities across Australia.

The Star faces up to $1 billion in fines and is engaged in several class action lawsuits. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) relentlessly pursues the operator’s former and current directors and executives. Furthermore, losing the NSW and Queensland licenses has severely impacted the operator’s bottom line. The ongoing turmoil has prompted The Star to elevate new, controversy-free talent to its management team.

Foster Has Experience Salvaging Struggling Enterprises

David Foster’s appointment as chairman has him replace Benjamin Heap, who is facing legal action. Heap is the last active director or executive involved in the proceedings, so his departure will hopefully signal a fresh start for the embattled operator. The former chairman was confident that his successor would help restore The Star’s damaged reputation.

I have every confidence The Star will be a powerhouse of the Australian tourism and entertainment sectors for decades to come.

Benjamin Heap, former chairman of Star Entertainment 

As chairman, Foster will be directly involved in remedying the operator’s shortcomings, hopefully restoring at least a part of its previous market position. He thanked Heap for spearheading the arduous rejuvenation process and promised to aid the renewed board of directors in the company’s journey back toward compliance.

I’m delighted to assume the role of chairman as we continue with an unwavering focus on earning back the trust of the community.

 David Foster, chairman of Star Entertainment 

Foster’s wealth of experience will be invaluable for the company’s remedial efforts. His career of over 25 years in the financial services sector saw him take the reins of Suncorp Bank, salvaging it from the consequences of the global financial crisis and steering it back into stability. Such experience is just what The Star needs to turn things around and recapture its former glory.

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