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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Leading online betting and gaming company 888 has announced the rollout of its safe gambling initiative, the Control Centre, in Ontario. This initiative aims to assist players in gaining a better understanding of their gambling behavior while promoting responsible gaming practices. The product has a proven track record, and its launch should bolster 888’s brand recognition in the region.

The Control Centre Brings Substantial Player Benefits

888 first introduced the Control Centre to its customers in the United Kingdom. Ever since its launch in 2020, the solution has been gaining popularity. Subsequent rollouts in countries like Italy proved the product’s broad applicability, regardless of cultural differences. Players who use the Control Centre tend to be much more responsible and moderate, utilizing deposit limits and temporary self-exclusion.

The customer interface of the Control Centre is integrated into 888’s home pages, offering players access to intuitively presented playing statistics, responsible gambling tools, and educational information. Speaking for CDC Gaming Reports, head of Canada at 888 Roi Nadler emphasized the simplicity, speed, and intuitiveness of the Control Centre, describing it as a one-stop shop for safer gaming.

We are committed to preventing gambling-related harm and are confident that our Control Centre offers customers new levels of transparency that will help them stay informed and in control.

Roi Nadler, 888 head of Canada

888 reiterated its commitment to ensuring players have a safe, fair, and entertaining experience. According to Nadler, responsible gaming provides a palpable competitive advantage and sets the foundation for building long-lasting relationships with players who trust 888 as their entertainment destination. This approach bolsters customer retention and encourages a sustainable business model.

Player Protection Remains a Core Objective for 888

The Control Centre’s Ontario launch marks some much-needed good news for the operator. January saw the company lay off dozens of its Israel employees amidst its global restructuring efforts. 888 is implementing an ambitious cost-saving program, strengthening its core intelligent automation and artificial intelligence capabilities. Fortunately, these cuts should not affect the operator’s customer protection initiatives.

While 888 recorded an 8% annual revenue decrease in FY23, the company’s management retains a positive outlook for the coming year. Safer gaming practices should lead to improved average revenue per user, while strategic investments can deliver sustainable long-term profits. Shrewd management will be instrumental in fulfilling these objectives in the face of industry-wide regulatory and compliance headwinds.

With almost 30 years of experience in the industry, 888 continues to prioritize responsible gaming practices, contributing to a safer and more secure online gambling environment. The Control Centre’s Ontario launch marks a significant milestone in the operator’s revised strategy and should substantially bolster its position in this highly competitive market.

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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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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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Three formidable contenders are locked in a fierce competition to secure the coveted license for Canada’s Caesars Windsor. The iconic casino, a cornerstone of Windsor’s economy and tourism for the past three decades, is facing an unprecedented challenge as the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp (OLG) reviews proposals from industry giants.

Caesars Windsor’s License Sparks Fierce Competition

For the first time since its grand opening 30 years ago, the license to operate the slot machines and blackjack tables of Caesars Windsor is up for grabs, reported The Globe and Mail. 

The OLG, responsible for overseeing the selection process, is tight-lipped about the proceedings, but insiders reveal a three-horse race among Caesars Entertainment Inc., the current operator, Bally’s Corp., an upstart built from Caesars’ former assets, and Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment, an Indigenous-owned enterprise with a successful track record in Niagara Falls.

Despite the OLG’s confidentiality measures, speculation is rife in Windsor about who will emerge victorious. The decision, expected in the fall, will determine the casino’s operator for the next two decades, commencing in 2025.

Local leaders, including Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens, union representatives, and tourism officials, rally behind the incumbent, Caesars Entertainment Inc. With unanimous support, they cite the casino’s pivotal role in providing over 2,000 jobs and anchoring the local tourism industry. 

The OLG’s decision holds significant weight, as it not only impacts the casino’s future but also shapes the broader economic landscape of Windsor.

Caesars Windsor Transforms City Identity, Shifting from Auto Hub to Tourist Hotspot

Caesars’ legacy in Windsor extends beyond its economic contributions. The casino, strategically located in the heart of downtown, played a crucial role in transforming the city’s identity from an automobile hub to a thriving tourist destination. 

Over the years, it weathered challenges such as smoking bans, cross-border travel restrictions, and the recent global pandemic, emerging as a resilient force in the ever-evolving gambling industry.

The influence of Caesars on the local economy is profound, with 4.4 million visitors injecting $669 million into the region in 2022. The OLG’s decision will not only impact the casino’s future but also reshape the competitive dynamics of the regional gambling industry.

In April 2023, the OLG initiated the search for a new operator for Caesars Windsor Casino, as the current contract with Caesars Entertainment is set to end in 2025. 

The OLG’s Request for Pre-Qualification (RFPQ) invited experienced and reputable companies to submit initial bids, ensuring the selection of a highly qualified service provider to maintain the casino’s competitiveness and contribute to the local economy. The chosen operator will oversee day-to-day operations, but the OLG will retain overall control.

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In a pivotal development, Hilary Stewart-Jones, a seasoned solicitor with over three decades of experience, has been appointed an advisor to the Curaçao Gaming Control Board (GCB). Her extensive legal background and expertise make her an invaluable addition as Curaçao embarks on a landmark transformation of its gambling regulations, signaling a momentous shift for the jurisdiction.

Stewart-Jones Has a Long History of Success

The new GCB Advisor has built a distinguished career in the legal and gambling sectors, holding prominent positions throughout her professional journey. Her impressive résumé includes non-executive director positions at renowned organizations like Ladbrokes and Paysafe Group. Stewart-Jones now works as an independent consultant at prestigious gambling law firm Harris Hagan and serves as Chair and CEO of Skywind Group, a leading gaming industry software provider.

Stewart-Jones’ legal career bears the unique distinction of a star in the gambling category, making her the only practitioner to earn such a prestigious award. Her peers regard her as a first-class lawyer with gaming in her blood, making her the perfect fit for the new position. Stewart-Jones was excited to join the GCB, aiding the regulator during such a pivotal moment in its history.

It’s an honor to be part of the monumental change that is the revitalizing of Curaçao as a world-class player in the global gambling arena.

Hilary Stewart-Jones

The GCB will fully employ Stewart-Jones’ talents, leveraging her risk and compliance expertise to navigate rising challenges. The Board’s newest Advisor continues to advise brick-and-mortar businesses like tracks and casinos. However, her core strengths lie within the online sector, where she has overseen most of the floats/acquisitions since 2000.

This Appointment Marks a Significant Milestone

Curaçao is currently undergoing a comprehensive restructuring of its gambling regulations. This ambitious undertaking signifies a substantial departure from the existing regulatory framework and aims to modernize the jurisdiction’s approach to gambling. As the nation transitions into this new era, it faces the task of implementing the National Ordinance for Games of Chance (LOK).

The present phase represents a transition period as Curaçao prepares to enforce the LOK. During this time, organizations seeking to operate within Curaçao must submit their applications through the GCB’s dedicated portal, which officially opened on 1 September. As the transition period ends, the GCB will pass its responsibilities to the Curaçao Gaming Authority, the country’s new regulatory body. 

As Curaçao navigates this significant regulatory evolution, stakeholders are eager to see how these changes will impact the gambling landscape in the jurisdiction and beyond. Hilary Stewart-Jones’ appointment is a promising sign, indicating the Board’s determination to ensure a seamless transition. Her wealth of experience will be instrumental in ushering in a more contemporary and efficient approach to the gambling industry.

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Sumsub, the global company that offers a full-cycle verification platform, has announced the launch of its new Responsible Gaming solution, the world’s first fully automated one.

This new automated Responsible Gaming control solution will enable online casino and sports betting operators to ensure their customers behave in a responsible way while enjoying the thrills of casino gaming or betting.

The company chose to launch the product in September because it was declared the Responsible Gaming Education month by the American Gaming Association. This allowed Sumsub to join the gaming community’s efforts to give players the best available solutions to protect themselves from gambling harm.

Sumsub’s new solution is aimed at online casino platforms that have an obligation to promote responsible gaming because in some jurisdictions the operators can face significant fines if they don’t comply or even have their license revoked.

Responsible gaming is a set of rules which are designed to protect vulnerable players but also ensure regulation compliance along with mitigating legal risks and preserving a brand’s reputation. Casino operators must set deposit limits, offer players self-exclusion options and provide resources for those who are seeking help when dealing with a gambling addiction.

Sumsub developed this automated solution using the company’s Transaction Monitoring system, along with its global compliance expertise. The solution offers a set of rules for responsible gaming controls, including flexible KYC, betting patterns analysis, suspicious activity alerts and potential gaming addiction checks.

Helpful Tools for Casino Operators

Using these tools, online casino operators can detect whether a deposit amount is disproportionate to a certain player’s income or if a player raises or disables the gambling limits. Moreover, operators can check gaming session frequency and duration, playing time, and other parameters that can indicate problematic behavior.

Sumsub also gives operators preset rule bundles for onboarding new players depending on the respective jurisdiction, checking their gaming activities in compliance with the local regulatory demands. This process is fully automated, allowing casino and sportsbook operators to reduce time and cost but also reduce risks associated with human errors.

Last but not least, this solution helps operators in the gaming sector deal with the threats of identity theft and payment fraud, preventing behaviors such as bonus abuse or even account takeovers and money laundering.

Tony Petrov, Chief Legal Officer at Sumsub, added that through this automated solution his company “stays at the forefront of safe gambling and actively promotes responsible gaming among organizations shaping the industry.”

Source: “Sumsub Offers First Automated Solution for Responsible Gaming Control“. Sumsub. September 19, 2023.

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In a significant development in the world of Asian gaming, the billionaire Cheng family from Hong Kong has officially taken over the management of the Hoiana casino resort in Vietnam. The resort, located near the vibrant Vietnamese port city of Da Nang, was formerly operated by the Suncity Group, a business empire led by the now-jailed Macau gambling tycoon, Alvin Chau. 

A Lavish $4B Joint Project by Chow Tai Fook, LET Group, and VinaCapital

The Hoiana resort is a joint venture between Chow Tai Fook, LET Group, and investment management firm VinaCapital. Boasting an impressive array of amenities, the resort includes a sprawling casino with 140 gaming tables and over 350 gambling machines, a luxurious golf course, and opulent hotels carrying the renowned Cheng family brands, New World and Rosewood. Currently, additional facilities are under construction, bringing the total investment in the resort to an estimated $4 billion.

The Cheng family’s takeover of the Hoiana resort comes in the aftermath of Alvin Chau’s legal troubles, leading to his imprisonment in Macau. Chau, who previously ran Macau’s most prominent junket operator, spearheaded an immensely profitable industry that attracted affluent players from mainland China through the provision of private jets, lavish suites, and generous gambling credits. However, the entire sector faced a severe blow following Beijing’s stringent crackdown, citing concerns over capital outflows and potential money laundering.

Following Chau’s fall from grace, Suncity Group Holdings Ltd., the listed unit of his empire, underwent a transformation under the leadership of executive director Andrew Lo. Rebranded as LET Group, the company has since distanced itself from junket operations.

Hoiana Resort’s Management Shift Reflects a Growing Trend

The shift in management at the Hoiana resort aligns with a broader trend among Macau junket operators. Faced with stricter regulations and higher taxes on home soil, many of these operators are actively seeking opportunities in Southeast Asia, with Vietnam standing out as one of the most attractive destinations as reported by Bloomberg. 

Vietnam offers more relaxed regulations and the opportunity to share VIP revenue with casinos, a model that was abandoned in Macau following China’s crackdown. Additionally, since Vietnamese law prohibits local residents from gambling in most facilities, casinos in the country heavily rely on high-rolling foreign players.

Vietnam’s tourism industry is also experiencing a post-pandemic boom, with visitor arrivals bouncing back to 66% of pre-pandemic levels in the first six months of the year. The country’s resilience in attracting tourists is particularly impressive, given that Chinese tourists, who previously comprised nearly one-third of Vietnam’s visitors, are yet to return en masse due to a shortage of international flights.

Beyond Vietnam, the Cheng family‘s foray into the international gaming scene has also extended to Australia, where they have become key investors in the Star Entertainment Group. Collaborating with another Hong Kong-based conglomerate, Far East Consortium International Ltd., they are jointly developing a formidable $3.6 billion gambling resort in Brisbane.

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