A new long-term partnership has been established between Light & Wonder and B2B supplier Jelly Entertainment, focusing on the distribution of a variety of slot games via L&W platforms.

This collaboration is poised to enhance Jelly’s brand recognition and broaden its customer base by distributing popular slot titles such as Elixir of Wealth, Muertos Fortune, and Wicked Riches of Oz into significant regulated markets.

Jelly’s iGaming products will now be accessible through Light & Wonder’s distribution platforms across the UK, Spain, and Italy. Additionally, Jelly is targeting growth in the Latin American markets, specifically Colombia and Peru, as part of this strategic deal.

In November, Jelly achieved regulatory approvals from both The Gambling Commission and the Malta Gaming Authority. Reflecting on the new partnership, CEO David Newstead remarked: “We have challenged ourselves to grow the Jelly brand and reach more players than ever this year and our new deal with Light & Wonder will certainly help us achieve that.”

Light & Wonder anticipates that this collaboration will further enrich its offerings to customers, complementing its already positive performance reported in the first quarter of 2024.

Steve Mayes, Senior Director of Digital Partnerships at Light & Wonder, expressed: “We are delighted to be working with Jelly Entertainment and are looking forward to offering their high-quality content across our network. Elevating emerging and upcoming game developers is a top priority for us and we are particularly excited to showcase Jelly and their great gaming experiences now available on the Light & Wonder platform.”

Source: “Light & Wonder enters into partnership with Jelly Entertainment”. Gambling Insider. May 22, 2024.

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International Entertainment Corporation (IEC) announced that it has officially begun its limited operation of the casino at its New Coast Hotel property in Manila. The company is set to officially take over full casino operations from the PAGCOR on May 11.

The Board is pleased to announce that on 9 May 2024, the Group has commenced its limited operation in the Casino, the Group will officially take over the entire casino operation with effect from 11 May 2024 and will be the operator of the Casino under the Provisional License.

IEC statement

This announcement comes after IEC was awarded a provisional casino license by the Philippine regulator on September 27, 2023. The former company now aims to turn New Coast Hotel into a proper integrated resort.  

For context, the casino at New Coast was operated by the PAGCOR’s Casino Filipino brand. During that time, IEC served a supporting function, helping the operator improve the overall gaming experience.

Under its provisional casino license agreement, IEC will pay a monthly fee to the PAGCOR. For the month of May, IEC will have to pay PHP 60 million.

IEC Will Implement Robust AML and CTF Measures

IEC’s official announcement noted that the group has established new internal control procedures and measures that would prevent instances of non-compliance and fraud. This includes an AML and CTF program that seeks to prevent money laundering and the financing of terrorism, allowing IEC to remain compliant.

The program, according to IEC, has been designed with high ethical standards and robust know-your-costumer principles in mind. It will also ensure that officers and employees are aware of their responsibilities and will guarantee cooperation with the AMLC and PAGCOR.

IEC added that it has formed an AML committee consisting of at least three members that would formulate a comprehensive and risk-based AML and CTF program that conforms to the law. The committee will oversee the program’s implementation and will report the casino’s compliance status to the board.

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The Queensland government has determined that Chow Tai Fook Enterprises (CTFE) is suitable to be associated with Star Entertainment Group’s Queen’s Wharf Brisbane property. The investigation into the matter came in the wake of Star Entertainment’s violations and apparent ties with Asian junket operators.

For context, Star Entertainment was previously found guilty of multiple AML violations and ties with influential Chinese agents. This included the Suncity Group and its now-imprisoned CEO Alvin Chau.

The past ties raised concerns about CTFE, considering that the Hong Kong-based conglomerate owns a 4.99% stake in Star Entertainment and a significant 25% stake in the company’s Queen’s Wharf Brisbane property.

In addition to its stake in Star Entertainment, CTFE also owns properties in the Bahamas and Vietnam. Its chairman, Henry Cheng, also holds a 10% stake in STDM.

In any case, the Queensland government was unable to find anything that would make CTFE unsuitable to be associated with Star Entertainment’s Queensland property.

CTFE Is Suitable, the Attorney-General Determined

Queensland’s attorney-general Yvette D’Ath said that the probe into CTFE’s business has been conducted over the 16 months leading to February 2024. According to her, the investigation was conducted by OLGR with the assistance of a third-party firm.

After what D’Ath called “considerable investigative work” into CTFE’s business and leadership, the investigation concluded that the Hong Kong-based company should be a suitable partner to Star’s property in Brisbane.

The attorney-general’s ultimate decision is that there is insufficient evidence to conclude that CTFE or its relevant associates are unsuitable.

Public statement on the suitability investigation

Queensland’s government added that the investigation was unable to confirm the allegations against CTFE. While the firm had previously dealt with a “person of poor repute,” the investigation could not find evidence to suggest that CTFE knew that the relevant person was a person of poor repute during the period of the association.

The attorney-general also learned that CTFE “lacked candor and fulsomeness” in several dealings with the OLGR. However, the attorney-general determined that this was “based on differences in cultural and organizational expectations” and not a deliberate concealment.

The attorney-general praised CTFE for its collaboration and desire to work with the regulator in the future. However, the attorney-general also warned that potential future failings may cause the Queensland government to reevaluate CTFE’s suitability to be associated with Star Entertainment’s Queens’ Wharf property.

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Facing regulatory action in the Down Under, Star Entertainment has confirmed that another high-ranking executive in the face of chairman David Foster has stepped down after less than a year on the job.

Another One Bids Adieu to Star Entertainment in Time of Need

He adds to the droves of executives who have exited Star Entertainment amid intensifying scrutiny from the country’s gambling regulator, with chief finance officer Christina Katsibouba and chief executive officer Robbie Cooke both turning their resignations in March.

Foster, though, is not immediately exiting the company and will continue to carry out his duties in a temporary capacity. He wants to make the transition towards a new chief executive officer smoother, as Star Entertainment is still on the lookout for its own top person.

However, Foster will only help with the executive responsibilities he took on when he became a chair, and he will be replaced in the chair position by Anne Ward, an independent non-executive director, whose appointment into the new position comes with immediate effect.

Star Entertainment has come under heavy fire from regulators and has been found unfit to hold a license in Sydney in October 2022, as the regulator found the company to have not met all necessary prerequisites to continue operating the property. A second inquiry is now underway, with the heat on Star Entertainment unlikely to let up any time soon.

Star has been waddling through more problems still, especially in light of new previously unseen text messages that showed insiders at the company pushing for the removal of Star Sydney’s special manager, Nicholas Weeks, and the NSW regulator.

The Clouds Gather for Star Entertainment and Executives

That was the event which prompted Cooke’s decision to step down in a formal acceptance of mea culpa. Cooke though has already said that the rapport that Star and the regulator had was a fraught one, and it often felt like a “one-way street.”

“But it was a difficult position for the company because we were taking a contrary position to the manager and some of his views of the company,” Cooke said. The former executive further noted that the messages had come out of context, and they only represented a single exchange between Star insiders, and not the company’s official position. Yet doubt has settled on the regulator’s mind.

The ongoing saga with the second trial is adding insult to injury, and the exodus of C-level executives is undermining the company’s ability to save face at a particularly challenging period of its operations.

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Caesars Entertainment is ready to elevate its culinary offerings by introducing Tortazo, the acclaimed restaurant by Michelin-starred chef Rick Bayless, at two premier destinations within its portfolio. Harrah’s Joliet and Caesars Palace Las Vegas will soon feature the vibrant flavors and culinary excellence of Tortazo, helping them stand out amidst the harsh competition.

Tortazo Encapsulates the Essence of Mexican Cuisine

Inspired by the gracious hospitality and lively culture of Mexico City, Tortazo is a fast-casual Mexican restaurant that encapsulates the essence of Mexican cuisine, with a particular focus on the renowned Mexican sandwich – the Torta. Acclaimed for his culinary prowess, cookbook authorship, and restaurant management, Chef Rick Bayless will bring his culinary magic to both locations.

Tortazo’s menu celebrates bold and flavorful Mexican cuisine, showcasing diverse culinary delights, including mouthwatering tacos, quesadillas, and irresistibly sweet house-made churros. Drawing inspiration from Mexico’s rich culinary heritage, each dish at Tortazo is a testament to Chef Rick Bayless’ commitment to authenticity and culinary innovation.

The Tortazo location at Harrah’s Joliet should open its doors in the spring, offering a culinary haven for guests seeking an authentic Mexican dining experience. Following this, the Las Vegas location at Caesars Palace will welcome patrons in late summer, adding to the iconic entertainment hub’s rich tapestry of culinary offerings.

This Addition Will Elevate the Customer Experience

The collaboration between Caesars Entertainment and Chef Rick Bayless signifies a strategic move to enhance the culinary offerings across the Caesars brand. Anthony Carano, President and COO of Caesars Entertainment, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, praising Tortazo as the perfect addition to the operator’s roster of culinary superstars.

This newest partnership should also significantly benefit Tortazo, improving the restaurant’s reach and exposure. Associating with a high-profile operator like Caesars should guarantee the restaurants will never be short on visitors hungry to experience the two venues’ complete offerings. Chef Bayless was thrilled regarding this partnership, highlighting Tortazo and Caesars’ shared values.

“The Caesars brand is synonymous with great hospitality, something that inspired the creation of Tortazo, so it feels like the perfect fit.”

Chef Rick Bayless

As Caesars Entertainment retains its priority on delivering exceptional experiences to its guests, collaborating with Tortazo further solidifies its commitment to offering a diverse and unparalleled range of dining options. More details about both Tortazo locations will be unveiled in the coming months, promising an exciting culinary journey for visitors to Harrah’s Joliet and Caesars Palace Las Vegas.

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Hacksaw Gaming became globally famous for its thrilling slot releases with edgy themes and fantastic features, and it helped the company build a vast network of partners and join forces with the biggest operators in the industry.

Recently, the company joined forces with Cristaltec Entertainment S.r.l. and strengthened its position in the Italian market through the content distribution agreement with this powerful company.

Italian expansion as a part of the strategy

The new deal is a part of Hacksaw Gaming’s plan to expand across the whole region, which will happen in the following few weeks.

The popularity of Hacksaw Gaming’s titles, already huge, will be even more increased thanks to the expansion to the new regulated markets, and Italian players will get a chance to enjoy a vast range of captivating titles.

Thanks to the partnership with Cristaltec, the company will be able to incorporate exceptional industry expertise and competency, which will help it establish a position in a new regulated market.

Some of the titles are already available on Cristaltec’s Casinomania online casino website. At the moment, the players can enjoy 38 exciting releases, including popular slots such as Wanted Dead or a Wild, R.I.P. City, Hand of Anubis, and Joker Bomb.

However, companies plan to release more games during the upcoming months and provide the Italian players with some of the best releases currently available in the market.

Both companies had in mind local gaming enthusiasts when creating the offering. With that in mind, the games that will join Cristaltec’s impressive offering and popular franchises are carefully selected to suit the needs of even the pickiest players in the Italian market.

Marcus Cordes, the CEO of Hacksaw Gaming, said: “We are strongly committed to enriching the Italian gaming market with the quality and variety of our portfolio. Working together with Cristaltec will certainly drive these opportunities to new heights.”

Calvi Lorenzo, a Member of the Board of Directors at Cristaltec Entertainment, added: “We are happy to announce the new agreement with Hacksaw, which will allow us to expand the offer of high-quality games present in the Casinomania Online Casino, belonging to the Cristaltec Group. Thanks to this partnership, our customers will have access to a wide and excellent selection, which highlights our constant commitment to exceeding expectations in the iGaming sector.”

Industry leaders

Hacksaw Gaming is one of the leading suppliers of slots, scratch cards, and instant win games to the global gaming market. Its portfolio currently consists of more than 120 thrilling titles, and the company is present in over 20 regulated markets all over the world. Over the years, Hacksaw Gaming has established a vast network of partners, which currently has more than 300 big industry names, including LeoVegas, Kindred, White Hat Gaming, BetConstruct, Betsson, and many more.

On the other hand, Cristaltec Entertainment also has an impressive portfolio of games, including hits such as Temple Queen, Epic Gods, Captain Morgan, Dante, and others. The company was founded in 2004, and since then it has become a leader in the region.

Source: Sarkany, Adrienn, “Hacksaw Gaming Celebrates Deal with Cristaltec Italy”. European Gaming. February 21, 2024.

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The Star Entertainment Group announced that it has formalized the previously announced aspects of the arrangements agreed in principle with the NSW Treasurer, Daniel Mookhey, securing the company’s jobs commitment and cashless trial.

In line with the initial agreement from August 11, 2023, The Star entered into a Jobs Guarantee Agreement with the state of New South Wales and the United Workers Union. As a result, the casino giant agreed to maintain a minimum headcount and certain ratios of full-time, part-time and casual employees at its The Star Sydney casino.

The job guarantee is valid until June 30, 2030, the company added. It also mentioned that the commitment is still subject to certain permitted adjustments in specific circumstances.

As per the newest additions to the Casino Control Act 1992 (NSW), The Star risks penalties if it fails to comply with the jobs commitment it agreed to.

In the meantime, The Star also officialized a formal trial of cashless and carded play at its The Star Sydney property. This trial comes as New South Wales seeks to modernize its gambling industry and prevent gambling-related fraud.

Cashless gaming and carded play will be trialed at NSW casinos from August 2024, allowing the state to see whether they have the intended effect.

The Star Sydney, for example, seeks to allow its guests to play cashless on 51 poker machines and 8 gaming tables within its Sovereign Room.

The Star’s group chief executive officer and managing director, Robbie Cooke, commented on the formalization of the aforementioned agreements labeling the engagement with the NSW Government as very constructive. He added that The Star is happy to have reached these arrangements and be able to provide security to its team in Sydney.

According to Cooke, The Star is bullish on reacquiring NSW’s trust in the wake of the recent regulatory failings.

As we continue to focus on earning back the trust of the Page 2 of 2 community and implementing the reforms required to restore The Star to suitability, we are also committed to the continuation of our role as a valuable contributor to the NSW economy.

Robbie Cooke, group CEO & MD, The Star

Three weeks ago, The Star also introduced new regulations to prevent excessive gambling. Effective as of January 31, the new rules include a mandatory 15-minute break every three hours and a limit of 28 hours of gaming per week. Players will also be unable to play more than 12 hours a day.

The introduction of the new rules followed an AUD 100 million fine in Queensland.

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Lottery.com, a prominent online lottery services provider, has made a strategic move in the digital entertainment landscape by acquiring S&MI Ltd, the parent company of SportLocker, and simultaneously launching it as Sports.com. This acquisition will see Sports.com emerge as a next-gen digital sports entertainment platform, blending innovative community-driven features with expansive content and technology.

The Two Companies Share a Common Vision

The acquisition of SportLocker is part of Lottery.com’s accelerated growth strategy, focusing on premium content bundling and optimizing direct connections with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) for efficient user acquisition. The rebranded Sports.com platform aims to attract exclusive marketing partners to drive sustainable brand growth, leveraging the synergies with its new parent company.

Sports.com is ready to revolutionize digital sports entertainment by introducing a platform that combines 24/7 sports news, live streaming, and a wealth of exciting content, including original documentaries, films, and exclusive behind-the-scenes access. SportLocker founding partner Tim Scoffham noted that the acquisition aligned with his vision for the platform and would elevate it to new heights.

The synergies between SportLocker and Sports.com represent a game-changing evolution in our mission to deliver unmatched sports experiences to fans worldwide.

Tim Scoffham, SportLocker founding partner

Initially launching in the USA and Europe, with concentrated efforts in the Middle East, Sports.com has ambitious global expansion plans. Targeting high-energy sports such as soccer, motor racing, football, MMA, and ice hockey, the platform aims to become a global destination for sports enthusiasts. Sports.com aims to provide fans with engaging content, creating a new era of sports engagement.

Throughout 2024, Sports.com plans to introduce additional features and invest in innovative technologies, emphasizing community building and social media interactions with sports stars. A core aspect of Sports.com’s strategy involves leveraging established partnerships with MNOs to offer localized branded sports content services, creating mutual value.

The platform is also committed to launching a dedicated program exclusively for women’s sports, showcasing innovative fan engagement methods, sponsorship acquisition, and revenue generation for clubs and teams. Matthew McGahan, chairman and CEO of Lottery.com and Sports.com, noted that integrating SportLocker would deliver enhanced content and technology, connecting fans worldwide.

The introduction of our media platform is just a glimpse of how we intend to bring fans closer to the sports they love.

Matthew McGahan, Lottery.com and Sports.com chairman and CEO

Lottery.com has transformed how users engage with lottery with its engaging mobile and online platforms. The company’s bold foray into the world of digital sports entertainment with the launch of Sports.com underlines a commitment to innovation, growth, and community building in the intersection of sports and technology, setting the stage for enduring success.

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The Malta-based, fast-growing online gaming operator employing a multi-brand strategy and managing four brands in reputable markets, Rhino Entertainment Group, has become the first operator to obtain a direct license from the Curacao Gaming Control Board (CGCB).

According to IGB and EGR Global, the operator that won the Employer of the Year title at the iGaming Idol Awards in Malta on November 30, 2023, has attained the license via White Star BV for its CasinoDays brand, marking a historical moment for the new regulatory regime in the Caribbean island. 

The License Is a “Thrilling Endorsement” of Rhino’s Excellence 

Rhino Entertainment has become the first operator to score a license following the grand opening of the CGCB application portal in September. Operators were allowed to register starting in November.

The certification also comes at a time when Curacao is busy bringing forward its new National Ordinance for Games of Chance (LOK) framework signaling a departure from the Master/Sub-License structure. 

Rhino Entertainment Group’s chief executive officer, Ross Parkhill, spoke about the “privilege” of being the first gaming operator to obtain the direct license, calling it “a thrilling endorsement” of their commitment to responsible gambling and excellence.

He also expressed their full support for Curacao’s boosted regulatory processes while recognizing the “added value and prestige” it would bring to their license.

Finally, Parkhill said they were looking forward to “fostering an open and communicative relationship” with the CGCB while creating a bright and compliant future for the online gaming industry. 

2024, a “Transformative” Period for Curacao

CGCB’s managing director, Cedric Pietersz, spoke about 2024 as a “transformative” time for Curacao while mentioning operators’ strong desire to secure new licenses, as noticed in the past three months since Curacao’s gaming industry supervisor started receiving applications. 

Pietersz explained that White Star’s licensure “holds a special place” in both their hearts and history marking a crucial moment for the island’s growth into a premium gambling jurisdiction with many upcoming licenses on the horizon.

The CGCB also announced it had issued three digital seals for Geeka Corporation NV, Games & More BV, and Small House BV. This would enable the recipients to showcase seals of approval from the regulator on their platforms once they would agree with the regulator’s terms.

In January, Curacao’s Independent Advisory Body raised a series of concerns regarding the text of the LOK and its compliance with the Financial Action Task Force’s anti-money laundering requirements.

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In a strategic leadership transition, the founding family behind theScore will step down from their roles at PENN Interactive, a subsidiary of PENN Entertainment, Inc. The operator retains its focus on consolidating its offerings following the successful launches of ESPN Bet and theScore Bet and should be well-positioned to pursue further growth in 2024.

The Levys Were Instrumental in Penn’s Success

TheLevy family, consisting of John Levy, Benjie Levy, Aubrey Levy, and Noah Levy, played pivotal roles in integrating theScore with PENN Interactive after the gambling giant acquired  Score Media and Gaming Inc. in October 2021. The integration involved bringing together theScore and PENN Interactive under the leadership of Benjie Levy as head of interactive and John Levy as executive chairman of theScore.

Parent company PENN Entertainment expressed gratitude for the Levy family’s contribution to its successful integrated media and betting strategy. CEO and president of PENN Entertainment Jay Snowden emphasized the Levys’ entrepreneurial spirit and pioneering role in the sports media and gaming industry, highlighting their shared passion for innovation.

I am very proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish with (the Levys), including the development of an extremely deep and talented bench at PENN Interactive.

Jay Snowden, PENN Entertainment CEO and president

Penn Entertainment is now actively searching for a replacement for Benjie Levy, the company’s head of interactive. The new hire will have large shoes to fill, as Levy was instrumental in several significant milestones for Penn Interactive. His efforts contributed to the successful sale of Barstool Sports back to David Portnoy and the $1 billion ESPN deal.

Their Departure Heralds a New Era for the Operator

John Levy will depart Penn in mid-February, while the rest of the family will leave in April 2024. This approach ensures a smooth management shift and should help avoid significant disruptions. The Levys have not yet disclosed any plans post-departure, but it is safe to guess that they will remain involved with the industry that brought them such significant success. 

Benjie Levy noted he was happy with the Penn partnership, thanking the team for their support. He highlighted the successful merger of the two organizations, allowing them to implement their integrated media and betting strategy. He added that the two companies had a shared vision, matched only by their efforts to foster a world-class working environment.

We could not be more proud of this team and what we have accomplished together, and we look forward to watching as they continue to build upon the successful foundation we established at theScore.

Benjie Levy, head of PENN Interactive and president and chief operating officer of theScore

The departure of the Levy family from their roles at PENN Interactive marks a significant transition point for the company. With its robust and experienced team, PENN Entertainment aims for a seamless leadership transition and continued growth as a leader in online gaming and sports media. The company hopes to fully leverage its resources and maintain its impressive momentum going into 2024.

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