In anticipation of its grand opening on December 13, Fontainebleau Las Vegas, the dazzling resort nestled on the northern stretch of the iconic Las Vegas Strip, has announced pivotal additions to its leadership team. 

Fontainebleau Las Vegas Welcomes New CFO and CAO

John Helderman, a distinguished professional with 25 years of experience in gaming, finance, and accounting, has been appointed chief financial officer of the resort. Accompanying him in the top ranks is Stacie Michaels, who has been promoted from general counsel to chief administrative officer, expanding her responsibilities to encompass legal, risk management, internal audit, compliance, and workers’ compensation functions within the organization.

Mark Tricano, President of Fontainebleau Las Vegas, expressed his confidence in the newly appointed executives, stating: “As we near our global debut, we are developing a successful culture under the guidance and perspective of seasoned leaders in gaming and beyond.” 

He emphasized the invaluable expertise that Helderman and Michaels bring to the resort. Their deep understanding of the Las Vegas market and their exceptional leadership skills align seamlessly with the vision of Fontainebleau Las Vegas.

Fontainebleau Las Vegas, the highly anticipated 67-story casino resort on the iconic Las Vegas Strip, is to open its doors to the public on Wednesday, December 13. Despite facing delays due to economic challenges and the COVID-19 pandemic, the resort, acquired by Fontainebleau Development and Koch Industries in 2021, secured a $2.2 billion loan last year, ensuring the completion of the ambitious project. 

Michaels and Helderman Elevate Resort’s Leadership

Having previously served as chief financial officer for The Brennan Entities, a prominent Las Vegas-based financial services operator, and in a similar capacity for Bluberi Gaming, a leading slot company, John Helderman brings a wealth of experience to his new role. His track record also includes stints as vice president of finance for multiple Las Vegas Strip resorts. Helderman is a graduate of the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Las Vegas Class of 2022.

Stacie Michaels, a legal luminary, transitioned into her elevated role at Fontainebleau Las Vegas after a decade-long tenure in various capacities within the Las Vegas gaming and hospitality industries. Michaels, a graduate of New York Law School, earned recognition as one of Vegas Inc.’s “40 Under 40” in 2017. Apart from her professional achievements, she actively contributes to the community, serving on the board of trustees for Discovery Children’s Museum and the Meadows School.

Fontainebleau Las Vegas recently strengthened its senior-level team. Mark Tricano, a veteran with extensive experience in hospitality, gaming, and finance, was appointed as the resort’s president. Michelle Reda, another industry expert with over two decades of experience, took on the role of chief casino marketing officer, while Kimberly Virtuoso, who contributed significantly to the resort’s human resources strategy, was promoted to senior vice president of people. 

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Mohegan Inspire, a groundbreaking resort project by the Mohegan Tribe, is set to redefine luxury and entertainment in Incheon, South Korea. As the $5 billion project approaches its eagerly awaited opening, it has unveiled an updated leadership team, bringing a wealth of experience to ensure the success of this ambitious venture.

Experienced Leadership Is Vital for Success

The Mohegan Tribe, renowned for its world-class gaming and entertainment destinations like Mohegan Sun in Connecticut and Mohegan, Pennsylvania, embarked on the Mohegan Inspire project in February 2016. This exceptional resort is strategically located at the Incheon International Airport in South Korea, promising a blend of luxury, entertainment, and convenience.

Managing such a high-profile venue requires exceptional talent familiar with local challenges and opportunities. Chen Si’s appointment as President leverages his extensive experience in the gaming and hospitality industry. Si was optimistic regarding the project, vowing to steer Mohegan toward a future filled with inspiration and growth.

As we begin this next venture for the Mohegan brand in South Korea, I am motivated by the promise of innovation, rich cultural exchange, and strengthened partnerships.

Chen Si, Mohegan Inspire President

The new President’s impressive track record includes leadership positions in industry giants like Sands China and Las Vegas Sands. His work as EVP and Head of Casino & Hotel at Macau Legend Development further bolsters his resume, showcasing an in-depth understanding of the gaming and hospitality sectors.

Mohegan Inspire Is Poised to Take South Korea by Storm

Joining Si is Wade Howk, a seasoned executive in the entertainment and leisure industry, who takes on the role of COO at Mohegan Inspire. Howk served as the CFO for Hard Rock Cincinnati and held the post of Corporate VP of Strategy at SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, leveraging his expertise in financial strategy and operational excellence to drive lasting growth.

Howk was also excited to assume his new position and join one of 2023’s top global workplaces. He promised to help the brand retain its focus on excellence and visionary leadership, ensuring guests would enjoy an unparalleled experience in all Mohegan properties regardless of region.

Mohegan Inspire has always stood for innovation, passion, and resilience.

Wade Howk, Mohegan Inspire COO 

As Mohegan Inspire prepares to take center stage as one of South Korea’s premier luxury resorts and entertainment destinations, the new leadership appointments underscore the company’s commitment to excellence and innovation. The resort plans to open its doors before 2024, featuring a blend of world-class amenities that promise to redefine the region’s hospitality industry.

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Moving forward, One Casino will be the second operator to benefit from the Chroma Key Studio, an exciting concept that allows operators to significantly increase the quality of the products they end up offering to their customers.

One Casino Gets Serious Live Casino Boost with Chroma Key

One Casino is now set to transform its live casino vertical and experience with the help of the Chroma Key Studio, which is focused on the Dutch market, and has been one of the most important ones to live operators. Previously, Stakelogic Live launched its solution with 711.nl in August.

Thanks to Stakelogic Live’s flexible solution, operators are able to introduce their branding onto table games such as Absolute Blackjack and European Roulette, making the experience more captivating and worthwhile for both the operators involved as well as their players.

One Casino is happy to be benefiting from this same technology and treatment, providing it with the same level of tailored experiences, brand recognition and personalization that make live casino experiences even more noteworthy. One Casino runs powerful mobile and desktop casinos that make it possible for the brand to stay competitive and deliver innovative and hard-hitting solutions to its audiences.

Olga Bajela, CCO at Stakelogic Live, has welcomed the opportunity to see the Chroma Key Studio introduced to yet another prominent partner brand. Bajela added:

The studio empowers operators with unmatched table customization, facilitating unique and immersive player experiences. We extend a warm welcome to One Casino to our Chroma Key Studio, as it embarks on delivering captivating and deeply branded experiences to its players.

Olga Bajela, CCO at Stakelogic Live

Appealing to the Dutch Player Bases with Live Casino

She was joined by One Casino CEO Mark Schram who was similarly excited to strengthen his brand’s live casino experience in the Netherlands, a country that clearly appreciates this type of content and is ever keener on growing it across the board.

“Harnessing Stakelogic Live’s Chroma Key Studio empowers us to achieve this, forging a connection between our brand and our players. This step strengthens confidence and reinforces One Casino’s position as the ultimate hub for live content in the Dutch market,” Schram said.

This new deal comes shortly after Stakelogic appointed Dejan Loncar to the role of Head of Live Casino, succeeding Richard Walker.

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The leading provider of live casino content and technologies, Stakelogic Live, announced it signed a new partnership agreement with 777.nl, the popular Dutch operator. Details regarding the new partnership emerged Thursday and see the operator become the newest addition to Stakelogic Live’s Chroma Key Studio initiative. Under the terms of the freshly minted agreement, 777.nl will benefit from the Chroma Key Studio’s groundbreaking technology.

Stakelogic Live’s Chroma Key Studio is located in the Netherlands and streams in Dutch. The innovative Studio improves significantly the experience for online players as it revolutionizes online interactions. Thanks to the new deal, 777.nl will benefit from this technology and deliver unique live experiences for its growing customer base.

Ultimately, the collaboration is expected to propel the operator’s presence in the vertical, by delivering one-of-a-kind experiences for its players. At the same time, the agreement boosts Stakelogic Live’s strong position as a leading provider of live casino technology, proven to increase engagement and retention.

The Chroma Key Studio enables seamless integration of branding. Initially, 777.nl will benefit from several games, including 7 Seat Blackjack and European Roulette. Moreover, the operator will bring Absolute Blackjack, Stakelogic Live’s latest addition. What makes Absolute Blackjack a strong addition is the ability to offer an unlimited number of seats for players via a single table. This reaffirms the scalability and potential of Stakelogic’s innovative technology.

Recently, the company confirmed another deal for its Chroma Key Studio by teaming up with Bingoal.nl, another popular gambling operator within the Dutch market. Announced earlier this month, the deal saw the operator benefit from Stakelogic’s new studio. This deal designated Bingoal.nl as the first Dutch operator to access the Chroma Key Studio.

The New Deal Brings Excitement to 777.nl, Stakelogic Live

Cesar Paredes, 777.nl’s country manager, spoke about the significant potential of the live casino segment in the country and the unique experiences it delivers. “This is why we are very pleased and proud of this partnership with Stakelogic Live’s Chroma Key studio,” he added. Finally, Paredes confirmed that the company is committed to engaging with its players and delivering thrilling experiences which will now be elevated further thanks to the new live casino content.

“Welcoming 777.nl to our expanding Chroma Key Studio lineup is a significant milestone for Stakelogic Live.“

Olga Bajela, CCO at Stakelogic Live

Olga Bajela, Stakelogic Live’s CCO, added that the company is delighted to expand its portfolio of partners via the new collaboration with 777.nl. She highlighted the importance of the studio’s customization options that elevate the thrill and excitement while allowing operators to showcase their brands.

Bajela said that Chroma Key Studio stands out with scalability which reaffirms its position within the online gambling sector. Finally, she pointed out that Stakelogic will be delighted to see 777.nl deliver new experiences for its customers thanks to the new deal.

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The leading provider of premium live casino games, powering operators within the online gambling sector in Europe and around the world, Stakelogic Live, announced the launch of its cutting-edge brand-new studio with Bingoal.nl, a Dutch online gambling operator. The launch, announced Friday, makes the Dutch operator the first one to benefit from Stakelogic Live’s new studio.

The content provider’s new Chrome Key Studio leverages green screens that bring options for personalization and customization. Thanks to the collaboration, Bingoal.nl will be the first operator to leverage this technology, seeking to deliver unique live casino experiences to its growing customer base.

Located in the Netherlands, Stakelogic Live’s Chroma Key Studio will stream the games in Dutch. Currently, there are three games that can be streamed via the studio. Those include European Roulette, Absolute Blackjack, as well as 7 Seat Blackjack.

Only recently, Stakelogic announced a new content agreement with Starcasino. Per that deal, the leading provider agreed to supply a portfolio of its games for the operator, strengthening its offering in Belgium. As a result, Starcasino gained access to classic and video slots, along with live dealer titles from Stakelogic.

The New Deal Brings Excitement to Bingoal, Stakelogic

Dany Salmon, Bingoal’s casino product manager, spoke about the significant popularity of the live casino segment in the Dutch gambling market. He acknowledged the importance of that segment for the company and its efforts to deliver unrivaled casino entertainment for its players.

Finally, Salmon said: “Using Stakelogic Live’s Chroma Key Studio allows us to do this in a way that strengthens the relationship between our brand and the player – building trust and the association between players and Bingoal.nl as being the go-to destination for live content in the Netherlands.”

“Live casino is hugely popular in the Netherlands and as an operator, it’s important for us to stand out and deliver unique experiences to our players.“

Dany Salmon, casino product manager at Bingoal.nl

Olga Bajela, Stakelogic Live’s CCO, was similarly excited. She outlined that the launch of the Chrome Key Studio in the Netherlands represents a major milestone for the company. At the same time, she highlighted that the new studio enables Stakelogic to deliver branding opportunities for gambling operators who want to create unique customer experiences.

Bajela explained: “That this can be offered to multiple operators from a single table means this is infinitely scalable, benefitting both Stakelogic Live and the operators that partner with us.” Finally, she said that Stakelogic Live is delighted to see the debut of its new studio with Bingoal.nl, the first operator that will be able to leverage this cutting-edge technology.

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Public opinion in Osaka, Japan is on the rise in support of an integrated casino resort in the prefecture according to an exit poll conducted over the weekend by the local news outlet, Mainichi Shimbun. The survey was taken by Japan’s oldest newspaper over the weekend as the Osaka Mayoral Election was held as part of the 20th Unified Local Elections in the country.

Plans call for Japan’s first casino to be built as part of a large integrated resort (IR) on Yumeshima island – a man-made land mass that is part of Konohana-ku, one of the 24 wards of Osaka, Japan.

According to the trusted outlet, the survey queried 6,190 voters as they left 145 polling places. A majority, 53% said they supported the IR development while 45% said they were opposed to it.

Osakans Want the Integrated Resort Casino

Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura was not shy about his support for the development and the issue was seen by many as a key element of his potential re-election which he handily won with more support for a second term than he garnered when he won the governorship the first time. He assumed office in April 2019.

According to a report on Inside Asia Gaming’s website, only a third of those who voted to re-elect the governor were opposed to the development.

Hirofumi Yoshimura was endorsed by Osaka Ishin no Kai (Japan Reformation Association). He is the Deputy Leader of Nippon Ishin no Kai. Osaka (city) is the capital and most populated city in the Osaka Prefecture, and the third most populous city in Japan with a population of 2.7 million.

Also endorsed by Osaka Ishin no Kai was political upstart Hideyuki Yosokawa who was elected mayor of the city. His victory was more robust than that of the governor however with a record 2.44 million votes – the most ever cast for a mayoral candidate in Osaka. His margin of victory was about two-million votes over his closest competitor.

The party also won 55 seats on the city council and retained its majority.

Governor Yoshimura was supported by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party as well. He had stated earlier that he may resign as a representative if a majority was not maintained.

Hard Work Ahead for Next Four Years

Speaking to constituents after the election Yoshimura said, “I believe that we have received a certain amount of public support to promote the IR attraction. I want to work hard for the next four years with the strong desire to make Osaka grow.”

The prefecture and city tendered an application to the central government in early 2022. Partnering in the endeavor are MGM Resorts and the Japanese multinational ORIX Corporation, a publicly owned Tokyo-based international financial services company established in 1964. ORIX is listed on the Tokyo and New York Stock Exchanges.

When Japanese lawmakers finally passed legislation that was signed by the late Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe, it was hoped by many that at least one IR would be approved and operating before the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics opened. However, deep-seated religious and secular political opposition to gambling remained and the fight was taken to a local level where anti-casino voices, mixed with complicated cultural and political machinations won out and drove most casino operators away from the fight.

Current projections, reportedly affirmed by the Governor, project an IR opening in 2029. Investment costs have been estimated to be as high as $10 billion to complete the project.

Out of a large field of deep pockets and top-tier global casino operators that initially vied for approval, MGM’s Osaka bid is seen by many as the last hope to build not only a world-class casino resort in Japan but the country’s only casino.

Various numbers have been tossed about since long before the Diet and Cabinet codified gambling liberalization in Japan. The latest projections indicate that the MGM/Orix consortium’s development could attract as many as 20 million visits each year and generate revenue approaching US$4 billion (JPY 520 billion).

Source: Exit poll shows majority support for Osaka IR as governor wins re-election, Inside Asian Gaming, April 11

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Land-based casinos have been around for centuries. In the last two decades, casinos have become a regular online sight, and virtual games are popular with players. Both land-based and online casinos offer exciting gameplay, but they differ from each other in several ways. Keep reading to discover the key differences between land-based and online casinos.

Accessibility and Restrictions

Using an online casino gives players access to games wherever they are. They can also play the casino’s mobile version on a smartphone like an iPhone or a Samsung using a dedicated app or a mobile browser to enjoy their favourite games from any location with Internet access.

Being able to access online casinos so easily makes them convenient. While land-based casinos may not be as convenient in terms of travelling to them, they do house a variety of games and entertainment options under one roof. In some of these casinos, visitors can watch a live show, spend time playing table games, and have a meal in a restaurant all in one space. This range of activities makes a land-based casino a good choice for an easily accessible night out.

The availability/accessibility/selection

Both online and land-based casinos provide a variety of games, including slot machines and table games. Land-based premises tend to have fewer games due to space restrictions. There are no such restrictions when it comes to online virtual games. So, online casinos have a more extensive selection of games. For example, offerings like platincasino slots online include Megaways slots and jackpot games. There’s also a live casino that mimics the experience in a brick & mortar location. So, players can get traditional casino excitement in any location.

The security level

Modern online casinos have high levels of security, including SSL encryption. These casinos also have licences that guarantee they operate fairly. These security measures and licences ensure that a person is safe while playing online and has financial protection. Land-based casinos also have security measures and licences that ensure they operate fairly. They also have security cameras in place to monitor activity in the casino. Both online and land-based casinos operate a know your customer (KYC) process which means that players have to provide verification of their identity.

The overall experience

Overall, the experience of playing at an online casino is very different from that of visiting land-based premises. For example:

● Playing a slot game in a land-based casino involves using a free-standing machine and pushing buttons or pulling levers, whereas playing slots online involves using a keypad or touchscreen.
● In land-based casinos, playing involves an actual physical experience, whereas online, the experience is virtual.
● Online casinos are always available for players to enjoy, whereas travelling to a land-based casino takes time and effort and may not be convenient.
● Land-based casinos often have bars, restaurants, and live entertainment, which is not the case for online casinos.

Conclusion

The experiences of playing at an online casino and visiting land-based premises have some key differences. Playing online doesn’t involve travelling to a venue, whereas playing at a land-based casino does. Land-based casinos often house other entertainment that people can enjoy, whereas online casinos are all about playing games. Both online and land-based casinos are safe and secure, and they’re both interactive. The type of experience an individual opts for is down to personal choice.

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