Treasure Island Resort & Casino is recognized as a premium gaming and entertainment destination in Minnesota. The casino offers a wide range of gambling options, including video poker devices, a poker room, bingo, as well as table games and a whopping 1,800 slot machines.

Treasure Island Resort & Casino is located at 5734 Sturgeon Lake Rd in Welch, some 40 minutes away from the Twin Cities. In a recent jackpot streak, five visitors of the casino won big jackpots and will now have extra cash to spend during the summer months. The lucky visitors collected jackpots between $21,886 and $119,831.

The casino disclosed details regarding the jackpot wins last week. The biggest jackpot from the recent streak, a mouth-watering $119,831, was won by a visitor who played Aristocrat Gaming’s Dragon Link slot game. After a $25 bet, the lucky visitor secured the staggering jackpot.

Within the recent jackpot streak, the second-largest jackpot was secured by a gambler who enjoyed the Boost Gold slot game. The lucky winner was able to hit a $91,724 jackpot from the popular game.

A Five-Figure Jackpot with a Bet Less than $1

Another hefty prize at Treasure Island Resort & Casino was won by a player who enjoyed video poker. While playing Island Poker, the lucky visitor scored a royal flush, resulting in a $40,000 jackpot.

Enjoying the popular slot game Dollar Storm Mega Grand Link, another visitor tapped into a hefty payday. The Treasure Island Resort & Casino player was able to hit a $33,045 jackpot from the game.

Last but not least, another lucky gambler scored a jackpot while enjoying some of the venue’s most popular slot games. The guest was playing Light & Wonder’s Jewel of the Dragon slot and secured a hefty payout on a tiny wager. After a $0.60 bet, the incredibly lucky gambler secured the mind-blowing $21,886 jackpot from the popular slot game.

Elsewhere, in Las Vegas, a lucky visitor of The Venetian Resort, placed a $5 side wager and won a hefty jackpot playing Pai Gow. The lucky man from Canada received five aces, allowing him to secure a mouth-watering $219,578 jackpot.

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Bally’s is trying to increase the gambling credit limit at its two properties in Rhode Island from $50,000 to $100,000 in order to stay competitive and attract high-stakes players. Not surprisingly, this move has sparked concerns despite the fact that Bally’s has secured the support of Senate President Dominick Ruggerio.

Bally’s Representative Tackles Concerns Over Rhode Island Casino Credit Proposal

Bally’s representative, Elizabeth Suever, addressed concerns during a Senate Committee on Special Legislation meeting. Suever noted that the proposal’s goal is to cater only to gamblers capable of repayment, reported The Providence Journal. 

Notably, casinos in Connecticut and Massachusetts are operating without such credit limits so the proposal is trying to level casino offerings in Rhode Island with the neighboring competition. The state of Rhode Island is quite dependent on gambling tax revenue, which amounts to $428.8 million annually.

However, opponents have expressed their confusion about the proposal being introduced at the end of the legislative session and the urgency surrounding it.  A spokesperson for Ruggerio confirmed that the legislation was crafted upon Bally’s request to counter competition from Massachusetts casinos.

Nonetheless, there is one stipulation in the proposal that has raised lawmakers’ eyebrows. The bill is going to affect the state’s Department of Business Regulation‘s authority to change Bally’s operating agreement without legislative approval. 

Rhode Island Proposal Aims to Attract High-Rollers

The proposal proponents argue that the bill will affect only a small group of high-rollers. It is going to reduce the need for large cash transactions for such players and, thus, make Bally’s casinos more attractive to them. 

Answering concerns about financial oversight and potentially higher gambling debt, the bill’s supporters note that players are going to be subject to rigorous scrutiny such as credit checks, identification verification, and tracking of their gaming history across local casinos. 

However, there is no detailed information available regarding the current number of players with $50,000 credit limits.

Additionally, the proposed legislation is going to change various aspects of Rhode Island’s lottery and casino operations. For example, Bally’s debt ratio shall have to be revised and the method for calculating promotional points shall also be changed.

This, in turn, will impact the state’s revenue share. The main challenge ahead of legislators will be to strike a balance between responsible gaming and keeping the competitive edge of Rhode Island casinos against neighboring states. The fate of the proposal will have implications for economic revenue and consumer behavior in the gambling sector.

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Thor Equities, alongside its partners Saratoga Casino Holdings, the Chickasaw Nation, and Legends, has unveiled a refined vision for its ambitious casino project in Coney Island, Brooklyn, now branded simply as The Coney. The $3 billion development plan transcends traditional gaming, promising a comprehensive entertainment and hospitality hub. However, the project has faced substantial backlash from locals worried about its long-term effects.

New Updates Aim to Win Over Locals

The proposal, first introduced in March 2023, has been updated to include a 500-room hotel, a 2,500-seat concert venue, 70,000 square feet of retail space, and 90,000 square feet of meeting and event facilities. This multifaceted development aims to revitalize the area, offering locals and visitors a vibrant, year-round destination.

Sam Gerrity, CEO of Saratoga Casino Holdings, one of the companies in the consortium behind the project, was adamant that the planned casino resort would provide substantial benefits, creating careers, supporting local businesses, and attracting more visitors with its expanded entertainment options. He was confident that The Coney would positively affect the area, enhancing locals’ day-to-day lives.

[Coney Island] needs a project that provides year-round economic support while also lifting up the infrastructure in one of the most densely traveled areas of the community.

Sam Gerrity, Saratoga Casino Holdings CEO

The casino resort’s newly updated renderings showcase Thor Equities’ vision for the five-acre site between Stillwell Avenue, West 12th Street, and Wonder Wheel Way. The design aims to seamlessly integrate with Coney Island’s historical and cultural fabric, enhancing its appeal as a premier entertainment destination. However, the project must overcome fierce competition in the fight for the limited licenses.

The Project Faces Stiff Competition

While Thor Equities and its partners await further guidance from the New York State Gaming Commission on the specific requirements for obtaining a downstate casino permit, they continue to refine their plans and engage with the community. The collaboration with Saratoga Casino Holdings, the Chickasaw Nation, and Legends reflects a strategic alliance leveraging their combined expertise to create a transformative project.

Despite the consortium’s efforts, locals have been less than ecstatic regarding the casino resort. 2023 saw local community leaders overwhelmingly vote against the ambitious project, expressing concern regarding its long-term impact on struggling communities. Opponents claim the casino threatens to turn Coney Island into another Atlantic City, bringing all the gambling industry’s negatives to a struggling neighborhood.

While The Coney struggles to win the approval of locals, rival projects threaten to outcompete it in the fight for the limited casino slots. Industry giants like Wynn Resorts, Caesars Entertainment, and Resorts World have pitched alternative projects, hoping to be included in The New York Gaming Facility Location Board’s final decision expected next year.

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In a bid to enhance its gaming offerings and entertainment experience, Ellis Island Hotel & Casino, situated off the bustling Las Vegas Strip, has commenced a significant expansion project. The family-owned establishment is set to undergo a transformation, knocking down walls to create more space for its patrons.

Planning Documents Reveal Ellis Island Casino’s 6,415 Square Feet Expansion

According to planning documents submitted to Clark County, the expansion plan outlines the addition of 6,415 square feet to the property, reported The Las Vegas Review-Journal. Among the features of the remodel are a larger casino floor, an audio/visual equipment area, a dedicated sportsbook back-of-house area, and a south service entrance vestibule.

Christina Ellis, vice president of development at Ellis Island Hotel & Casino, conveyed her excitement for the project, emphasizing that the renovation presents a chance to elevate the gaming and entertainment experience while also paying tribute to the establishment’s history and heritage.

As part of the expansion, the existing 2,800-square-foot microbrewery on the premises has been demolished to make room for the new structure. Once completed, the revamped establishment will boast closer proximity to the sidewalk and include rooftop access, providing visitors with a unique perspective of the Las Vegas skyline.

Ellis Island Hotel & Casino Eyes Winter 2025 for Completion

Officials at Ellis Island Hotel & Casino anticipate that the project will be finalized within eight to ten months, with an expected completion date in winter 2025. Anamarie Ellis, the vice president of operations, highlighted the significance of the endeavor, especially as the hotel-casino approaches its 56th anniversary. 

The site, nestled on Koval Lane near Flamingo Road, has been operated by the Ellis family since 1967, gradually expanding its operations over the years. Notable milestones include the acquisition of the adjacent hotel and the establishment of the Front Yard, a popular beer garden with on-site brewing facilities, which opened its doors in 2019.

The expansion project marks a strategic move by Ellis Island Hotel & Casino to stay competitive in the ever-evolving landscape of Las Vegas entertainment and hospitality. 

While some Las Vegas casinos are expanding, others are being demolished. Bally’s Corporation prepares to implode the Tropicana Casino Hotel in Las Vegas by the end of the year, pending necessary permits for implosion, including dust control and asbestos abatement. The iconic property, which opened in 1957 and closed in 2024, faces concerns over Bally’s financial position amidst plans for redevelopment.

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Bally’s Corporation continues its expansion across the US, and the newest casino is in Rhode Island.

Bally’s monopoly in the market

The state legalized iGaming eight months ago, and now it’s time for operators to expand their businesses to this new market. Bally’s is introducing its impressive portfolio of slot and table games to Rhode Island players, so gamers can enjoy the impressive portfolio of 170 captivating slot releases. To play, they must be at least 21 and create an account on Bally’s platform.

Before the official launch, the company conducted a technical trial that lasted for four days to make sure everything was working properly. On top of that, Stakelogic incorporated its live dealer and table games software studio technology in its portfolio.

Back in 2021, Rhode Island legislators approved Bally’s and its IGT supplier a 20-year contract for land-based casinos Bally’s Twin Rivers Lincoln Casino Resort and Bally’s Tiverton Casino & Hotel, so the company has a monopoly in this market. Now, this monopoly will also be transferred to the iGaming industry. Gamesys, Bally’s online arm, might be the only operator who is able to offer its services in Rhode Island.

According to the state’s law, Bally’s and IGT will be obligated to pay 50% of online slot revenue to the state. Tax revenue imposed on table games is 18%.

The industry giant is prepared for launch, so the company has built a Live Dealer Table Studio placed across 4,000 square feet at Twin Rivers.

The state established a body to regulate all iGaming operations, the Rhode Island Division of the Lottery. Now, the body oversees two of Bally’s casinos in the state.

Sports betting revenue decrease

The law ensured that geolocation technology could be used to confirm that players were located inside the state’s borders. If the state has a reciprocal agreement with another state regulator, it might lead to allowing the players to play outside Rhode Island. Sports betting used to be very popular in the state, but according to the revenue reports, its popularity started to decrease. In January, the sports betting handle was $44.8 million. In December 2023, it was $47.9 million, and not only is this figure lower than December’s, but it’s also the lowest handle since September 2023. So far, the handle in the 2024 financial year decreased to $267.2 million, since in 2023 it was $332.8 million. Bally’s interactive iGaming business might help in increasing the revenue in the state since iGaming increased the revenue in the whole country. Apart from Rhode Island, six states legalized iGaming operations: New Jersey, Delaware, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Connecticut.

Source: iGB Editorial Team. “Rhode Island becomes seventh US state to launch iGaming”, igamingbusiness.com, March 5, 2024.

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This has been made possible through Bally’s, which has been offering interactive casino games of chance since Tuesday, and is the first time the country has seen a new expansion and a subsequent launch of iGaming since Connecticut became the sixth state to do so in October 2021.

Rhode Island Lifts the Curtain on Online Casino Gaming

The key event here is not so much the arrival of interactive gambling, as online sports betting has been available in Rhode Island since late 2019. Last year, the state gave its go-ahead to Bally’s to operate an exclusive live casino with Stakelogic, a supplier with a global reach and a unique blend of live dealer games.

Rather, it’s a matter of introducing online casino games. Bally’s features 170 slot games and it also offers live dealer tables for blackjack and roulette, both of which are popular segments.

However, the online casino does come with some conditions. For one, to play online, players would have to be 21 years of age, as opposed to 18 years for the commercial casino. There are also a host of responsible gambling measures designed to ensure that online players are protected and have access to all they need to engage responsibly with gambling.

That includes session limits, spending and betting restrictions, cool-off periods, and of course self-exclusion. Rhode Island, a small state by any meaningful measure in the United States, has decided to pursue growth in yet another important gambling vertical.

Bally’s is hoping to continue adding to its online casino offer, although there may be a fast-reached ceiling for the actual growth with not that many players to go around. The Ocean State and the latest introduction of online casino games, though, begs the question of how soon before we see others follow suit. The gambling bill that made online casino gambling in Rhode Island is far from ideal, though.

Who May Be Next in the Race for iCasinos?

It only allows Bally’s to offer such products, and this is understandable as Rhode Island operates an exclusive based on an exclusivity model with the brand. Other states though are bigger, and there are already several potential targets for further expansion. Among the names that have openly discussed the idea are both Indian and Illinois.

Florida, which managed to push online sports betting through a tribal compact, has been openly tinkering with the idea of using the same arrangement and introducing online casinos, although all of these are rather far-fetched.

There is a compelling case to pursue growth in Indiana, too, as according to a recent study, the state stands to rake in millions worth of tax windfall, not to mention the added value to the economy. Anything new coming out of Illinois this year, though, is more likely to do with a proposed tax increase, however.

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South Korea’s foreigner-only casinos do not sit well with many of the local residents. According to a recent report, roughly half of the residents of Jeju Island believe that these properties have led to a drastic increase in crime. According to these locals, stricter regulations are needed.

The survey was conducted by representatives of the Jeju Special Self-Governing Province and inquired about the opinions of 1,000 local adults. A whopping 49.9% said that they believe the properties have led to a spike in the region’s criminal activities. In the meantime, 14.2% disagreed with that statement. The rest were neutral and did not have strong opinions on the matter.

The survey also inquired about islanders’ feelings about the casinos’ effects on the environment. More than half of the respondents (52%) said that the island’s foreigner-only casinos have a negative impact, pollute the environment and increase traffic problems. In the meantime, 13.7% disagreed with that statement.

Furthermore, 55.1% agreed that the casinos have a harmful effect on the local youth and the educational sector as a whole. However, 13.7% do not believe in a link between the educational system and the casino properties.  

The Island’s Eight Casinos Provide a Boost to the Economy

Jeju Island houses eight foreigner-only casinos. These are managed and supervised by the provincial government and have been the subject of controversies for some time. For reference, South Korea prohibits gambling but allows foreign tourists to gamble in specific areas.

In addition to the aforementioned concerns, the casinos also bring some benefits. Roughly 40% of the survey respondents admitted that the island’s eight casinos do bring in more foreigners and lead to increased tourist spending. In addition, 33.7% agreed that the casinos have created many new jobs.

Speaking of jobs, 34.2% believe that operators should create more jobs for young people, while 32.8% would like casinos to provide more financial support to the local tourism sector.

Despite the casinos’ positive effects on the local economy, 51.4% believe that stricter regulations are needed. On the contrary, 27.3% of the respondents believe that the casinos could do with some more support from the government.

For reference, this survey was the first of its kind on the island. The Jeju Island government plans to conduct it every year in order to measure public opinion on the casinos and casino regulations.  

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China State Construction Engineering Corporation (CSCEC), based in Beijing, has clinched a significant contract worth AED4.4 billion ($1.2 billion) to construct The Island project, marking the largest deal since 2017. 

The Island Project Welcomes MGM, Bellagio, and Aria to Its Horizon

The Island project, situated on a 10.5-hectare island off the coast of Umm Suqeim, is poised to become a luxurious destination, featuring renowned hotel brands such as MGM, Bellagio, and Aria. The prospect of these high-profile brands entering Dubai has sparked speculation about potential gambling facilities if the UAE decides to legalize it, reported MEP Middle East.

The development is expected to offer a diverse range of amenities, including 1,400 hotel rooms and apartments, along with retail, dining, and entertainment options. German firm Buro Kling Architectural Engineering Consultants is playing a pivotal role as the main and structural consultant, alongside local firm APCC overseeing the earthworks.

The timing of this milestone coincides with a surge in optimism for Dubai’s project market, evident in the recent approval of the $4.9 billion Blue Line extension in the Dubai Metro network. The Island project, strategically located near the Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Marsa al-Arab, adds a new dimension to Dubai’s ever-evolving skyline and urban landscape.

CSCEC’s triumph in securing The Island project follows its earlier successes in Dubai, including the AED886 million ($241 million) main works contract for Damac Properties’ 71-storey Cavalli Tower and the W-Residences project awarded by luxury real estate developer DarGlobal.

With a brand value of $31.9 billion in 2022, as reported in the Brand Finance Engineering and Construction 50 2023 report, CSCEC stands as the world’s largest transnational conglomerate, known for its expertise in civil and industrial engineering, real estate development, and home building.

Wynn Resorts Redefines Luxury in Dubai with $3.90 Billion Casino Resort

MGM is not the only gambling company trying to set foot in Dubai. Wynn Resorts advances with its groundbreaking $3.90 billion integrated casino resort on the artificial Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, scheduled for an early 2027 launch. 

Partnering with local entities Marjan and RAK Hospitality Holding, Wynn ensures compliance with stringent UAE regulations. The project, led by ALEC Engineering and Contracting, has progressed smoothly since March, reflecting Wynn’s commitment to the region’s surging demand for luxury gaming and resorts. 

Recent concept images revealed a sleek hotel tower reminiscent of the Las Vegas Strip, featuring 1,500 hotel rooms, expansive gaming areas, a spa, entertainment facilities, and a luxurious shopping center.

The $3.90 billion investment signifies Wynn’s substantial commitment to the UAE’s hospitality sector, aiming to meet the escalating demand for luxury destinations in the Middle East.

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Bally’s Corporation, a major player in the casino industry, has joined forces with Stakelogic, a leading supplier of live casino games, in an ambitious move to expand its online gaming operations. 

Stakelogic Gains Ground in the US Market Through the Partnership

By collaborating with Stakelogic, Bally’s plans to introduce a state-of-the-art live casino experience to the North American market. Offering a wide range of popular online live casino games, including favorites like Blackjack, Roulette, and Baccarat, Bally’s aims to captivate Rhode Island players starting in April 2024.

Expressing his excitement about the venture, Robeson Reeves, the CEO of Bally’s Corporation, expressed his confidence in the partnership, stating: “Our collaboration with Stakelogic in bringing our live casino operations online in Rhode Island is truly thrilling. With Stakelogic’s expertise and cutting-edge technology, we are poised to deliver an unparalleled live dealer experience to our customers.”

Stakelogic, widely recognized as an emerging force in the iGaming industry, has been making waves in over 20 markets. Boasting an impressive portfolio of 250+ slot games, along with innovative live dealer technology, the company has firmly established itself as a leader in the field.

Stephan van den Oetelaar, the CEO of Stakelogic, also expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, remarking: “We are extremely excited to partner with Bally’s, as it will pave the way for Stakelogic to introduce its cutting-edge technology in the US market.”

Van den Oetelaar further added that the collaboration would not only reinforce Stakelogic’s position as a leading technology company in the iGaming industry but would also present it with an incredible opportunity to further expand its growth since the successful launch of its live casino offerings.

Rhode Island Embraces iGaming with Bally’s Monopoly

The Bally’s and Stakelogic partnership closely follows Rhode Island passing Senate Bill 948, legalizing iGaming in the state and extending Bally’s monopoly in the market. The new legislation allows Rhode Island residents to enjoy casino games on their mobile devices, with the Rhode Island Lottery Commission overseeing the industry and implementing player protection measures. Despite criticism for the exclusive deal, the move marks a significant milestone for the state and is expected to bring economic benefits and enhanced consumer safeguards.

Meanwhile, at the end of June, Bally’s Corporation agreed to a $1 billion sale-and-leaseback deal with GLP Capital for its Rhode Island casinos, Tiverton Casino and Hotel and Twin River Lincoln Casino, with Bally’s immediately leasing them back and resuming ownership and management. The deal may also include adding the casinos to the current master lease with GLPI, providing Bally’s with long-term liquidity and strengthening its expansion plans.

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Rhode Island will soon have state-sanctioned online casino games just a few short months after the idea was informally introduced.

For some background, RI is the smallest state in the US with a land mass of less than 50 miles by 50 miles in any direction. It was the 13th colony and the first to declare independence in 1776.

It’s also home to the operational offices of IGT and the headquarters of Bally’s Corp. – the two companies selected to operate online games under the state lottery commission’s oversight.

Smooth Operators

The law faced little opposition after the idea was introduced on behalf of Bally’s and its operating partner, IGT at a Wednesday afternoon luncheon held by the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce in February.

From there, the House introduced a bill that some lottery officials thought might be unconstitutional due to the way table gaming was legalized in the state. Then the Senate introduced and approved a “substitute” bill earlier this month with a “fix” that boiled down to removing digital table games and allowing only for live dealer online casino games.

Gov.Dan McKee signed Senate Bill 948 into law on Thursday (22 June), giving Bally’a land-based casino monopoly in iGaming unheard of elsewhere in America. IGT is right there with them holding not only the tech side of the deal, the supply side of the video lottery terminal business for the land casinos, and the sports betting contract with Bally’s and the state but a multi-decade lottery concession.

The online casino or casinos, which Bally’s would have servers located within one or both of the state’s only two land-based casinos to host – Bally’s Twin Rivers Lincoln Casino Resort and Bally’s Tiverton Casino & Hotel – would be managed by the Rhode Island Lottery (RILOT).

“This legislation provides an added convenience to Rhode Islanders who would like to play the existing table games offered at Twin River via their mobile devices,” said the bill’s sponsor and president of the senate Dominick J Ruggerio.

“This is a focused version of igaming that is ready for implementation. This igaming legislation is constitutional, is geared to mature users, contains education provisions for problem gamblers, and preserves the revenue allocation percentages as they are currently in place.”

Not Everyone Happy With the “Monopoly”

Competitors such as a gaming alliance that includes DraftKings did speak up against the continued “monopoly” earlier but were simply not heard when it came down to getting the job done.

New Jersey, Delaware, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Connecticut preceded RI in authorizing online casinos and so did Nevada. However, while the Nevada legislation authorized online slots and other games, online poker regulations were written to go along with the law so no online casinos were ever launched in Nevada.

The original bill sought a start to gaming as early as January 1, 2024, and while that is still possible, the new law set a starting date of March 1, 2024.

Source:

Rhode Island becomes seventh state to legalise igaming, iGaming Business, June 22, 2023

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