At the heart of Las Vegas, the International Problem Gambling Center is tackling gambling addiction with an innovative approach: intensive cognitive therapy designed to uncover and address the deep-seated emotional triggers that drive compulsive gambling.

The Program Uncovers the Roots of Gambling Addiction Through Cognitive Therapy

The program offered by The International Problem Gambling Center includes intensive cognitive therapy sessions led by Stephanie Goodman, reported The Las Vegas Review-Journal. Over six weeks, they put participants through their paces with counseling and group talks focusing on what really drives someone to gamble so much. 

While most Nevadans are not long-term problem gamblers according to Goodman – who says around 6% struggle significantly – she also emphasizes that people should see gambling addiction as a serious mental health issue instead of just a lack of self-control.

The stigma associated with gambling addiction often leads to societal dismissal, making it harder for individuals to seek and receive necessary help. Goodman stresses that like any addiction, gambling addiction requires comprehensive treatment and societal understanding. 

Dr. Kobie West, the center’s assistant clinical director, explains that the program has chosen cognitive therapy as its main treatment since no pharmacological remedy is known. This kind of therapy looks at what makes people gamble in terms of emotional triggers and traumas that they have not resolved as gambling addicts are using betting as an escape from them. It also enables addicts to realize and deal with their past griefs, traumas, or other major life events that might have led them into addiction.

Holistic Therapy Approach Yields High Success Rates for Gambling Addicts

The center’s new approach involves individual counseling sessions along with group activities among the patients where they talk about their problems related to this disorder. The idea behind this strategy is to help these individuals find healthier alternatives for dealing with their emotions instead of engaging in destructive behaviors like gambling. 

For example, therapists may use a technique called “pizza pie”, an analogy which means asking an addict what his life would be like if he did not gamble anymore thus indicating how important it is that he or she fills up all those hours spent on betting with positive actions.

The effectiveness of the center’s approach is notable, with a recovery rate significantly higher than the national average. Goodman notes that while only 8-10% of problem gamblers typically remain in recovery after a year, the center boasts a 44% success rate, which increases to 98% for those who continue with follow-up sessions. The program of the center is a light in the dark for those who have an addiction to gambling.

According to Goodman, participating actively in the process of getting better and wanting it enough is what it takes to beat gambling addiction. The stories that show how successful the center’s methods can also reveal just how difficult this type of addiction is to beat without treating every aspect of a person’s life affected by the problem.

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The Responsible Gambling Affiliate Association (RGAA) announced recently that it will be launching a new membership initiative at SBC Summit North America. With the help of the program, RGAA wants to keep fostering a stronger community of affiliate companies while at the same time prioritizing consumer protection.

RGAA Expands Membership to Strengthen Integrity and Consumer Protection Efforts

Max Bichsel, Chair of RGAA, emphasized the importance of the fresh program, stating: “The launch of our membership program is a pivotal moment for the RGAA as we strive to promote responsible gambling practices and advocate for equitable regulation in the industry. With each new affiliate that joins our ranks, we fortify our efforts to ensure that integrity and consumer protection remain at the forefront of our sector.”

RGAA was founded in 2023 by a consortium of industry giants including Better Collective, Catena Media, FairPlay Sports Media, Gambling.com, Spotlight Sports Group, and XLMedia and since then it has upheld a commitment to promote integrity and responsible marketing practices. 

With this new expansion of its membership rooster, RGAA wants to enhance its influence and build upon the foundation of the goals set by its initial members. New affiliates can reap the benefits of united representation in the gaming industry and will be able to access a wide range of resources such as regulation updates, educational materials, and tools designed to empower their businesses.

Better Collective CEO Highlights Industry Dedication to Player Welfare

Rasmus Sojmark, CEO and founder of SBC Gaming, also expressed enthusiasm regarding the collaboration, stating: “Last year’s Summit was a huge success and brought together industry leaders throughout North America eager to exchange ideas, collaborate and make lasting change. I am confident that this year will be no different and our collaboration with the RGAA will further elevate the conversation surrounding responsible gambling practices and player protection.”

Members are obliged to make a commitment to upholding responsible gambling standards. This also includes a yearly compliance audit. The membership also means that all participants receive the esteemed RGAA Standards of Excellence certification, which shows the member’s dedication to championing responsible gambling marketing and advertising practices, and safeguarding consumer interests.

Marc Pedersen, CEO of North America for Better Collective and RGAA board member, underlined the collective dedication to player protection the RGAA propagates and underscored that Better Collective as a founding member has over 20 years of experience in the industry. He further mentioned that he expects many new members to join the RGAA as the organization continues its work to ensure the improvement of safer gambling practices and the protection of players.

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Swintt, an increasingly popular software development studio, has partnered up with the pioneering game developer Twin Win Games. Under the B2B partnership, Swintt will integrate Twin Win Games’ exclusive content into its SwinttStudios library of selected titles to expand its 2024 offerings to partner operators worldwide. At the same time, Kyiv-based software studio will use the deal to extend its reach to a wider player community from new regulated markets around the world.

B2B Partnership

The content supply deal will make Twin Win Games available for players through the Swintt’s current distribution deals closed with multiple iGaming platforms on a global scale. Twin’s extensive portfolio is crafted by a diverse team of more than 110 industry professionals and experts into the up-to-date products boasting high-tech features and artistic design.

Development and Distribution

The deal signed with the in-demand software developer Swintt will enable the partners to channel the high-quality titles to customers through the exceptionally busy Swintt network. The enterprise will leave enough space for Twin Win Games to focus on content development, while Swintt will handle the distribution and take advantage of the favorable demand conditions regarding its releases. ‌

Exclusive Content Supply

For this reason, Twin Win Games’ content will be included in the popular SwinttStudios program to be offered to operators and aggregators as Swintt continues its global expansions.The deal foresees the Kyiv-based studio to add new casino game releases later this year, which will add the announced Twin’s developments like Cheshire’s Luck and Yellow Slotmarine to the pool of Swintt’s exclusive offerings.

‌Foundation of Long-Term Partnership

Both Swintt and Twin Win Games expect to benefit from the increased presence of the exclusive content in new regulated markets around the world. The partners are therefore looking to have the content rolled out on as many platforms as possible. Such a common expansion would represent a joint achievement of the partners to the deal. In turn, such an achievement would make the latest content supply deal entered by two renowned software development studios a foundation of the partnership to be extended over years to come.‌

David Mann, Chief Executive Officer at Swintt, said: “Going into 2024, one of our main goals at Swintt was to further expand the line-up of innovative third-party titles that are available via our SwinttStudios programme. Having now partnered with Twin Win Games, we’re well on our way to doing exactly that and we can’t wait to help the provider takes its current offering to the next level.”‌

Nataliya Makarova, Chief Executive Officer at Twin Win Games, said:“We’re very proud of the strong line-up of titles we’ve developed at Twin Win Games and to be recognised by a software provider of Swintt’s calibre reinforces all the good work we’ve done so far. By teaming up with Swintt, we’ll enjoy a mutually beneficial collaboration that will introduce our slots to new players worldwide.”

Source:

‘’SwinttStudios Teams Up with Twin Win Games’’, swintt.com, April 2024.

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PokerStars, the world-renowned online poker platform, has introduced a revamped Rewards Program, which went live on January 22, 2024. 

PokerStars Ditches Weekly Challenges for Fairer Rewards Program

PokerStars is bidding farewell to its Weekly Poker Challenges, a significant departure from the previous system. The decision stems from the challenges’ lackluster performance, with a staggering 75% of participants failing to complete them. 

Complaints about progress bars being reset, regardless of proximity to completion, led to a consensus that change was necessary. The elimination of these challenges aims to establish a more transparent, fairer, and easily understandable program.

Under the new PokerStars Rewards Program, players can anticipate a more predictable and rewarding experience. Moving away from the all-or-nothing nature of the previous challenges, the program is now volume-based, allowing players to plan and achieve targets at their own pace. 

The minimum requirements for earning a Rewards Chest have been raised for regular players, but the base program now offers more substantial rewards, ranging from 25% to an impressive 40%, all provided as cash.

Acknowledging the disparities in playing habits, PokerStars ensures that recreational players, falling within the Bronze and Blue Levels, are not left out. These players will now receive daily rewards, including a fixed $0.50 Power Path ticket, encouraging them to embark on PokerStars adventures. This inclusive approach aims to bridge the gap between casual and regular players, rectifying the shortcomings of the previous system.

PokerStars Unveils Exclusive Tiers for High Rollers

Introducing a touch of luxury for their high-volume players, PokerStars has launched exclusive tiers called PokerStars Select and Select+. Players automatically qualify for these tiers based on the rake generated within a rolling one-year period. 

The perks include designated personal account managers, increased reward rates, and exclusive promotions, providing a first-class experience for the platform’s most dedicated players. The eligibility criteria for these exclusive levels are set at $/€50,000 and $/€100,000 in rake, respectively, over a one-year period.

With the new changes, PokerStars aims to create a more transparent, rewarding, and inclusive experience for its diverse player base. The revamped Rewards Program promises increased generosity, with up to 40% in Rakeback for the majority and an impressive 60% for the top-tier players.

In other news, PokerStars entered into a significant partnership with Playson, a prominent digital entertainment supplier. The agreement allows Playson to supply PokerStars with popular games, starting with Solar King, and expanding to include hits like 3 Pots Riches: Hold and Win, Coin Strike: Hold and Win, and Royal Coins 2: Hold and Win. The collaboration aims to enhance PokerStars’ gaming offerings, initially in the United Kingdom and Malta, with potential expansion to Spain and Ontario in the future.

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Over the last decade, the popularity of loyalty programs offered by casino and entertainment operators has grown exponentially. It’s no surprise that leading operators on the Las Vegas Strip have identified the potential of loyalty programs and launched their own versions, offering benefits for their return and loyal clients. MGM Resorts International, the globally recognizable gaming and entertainment company, currently offers MGM Rewards, a loyalty program that allows its members to earn points and exchange them for different perks and incentives.

Last year in July, MGM unveiled details regarding a new extraordinary experience its members will benefit from in collaboration with Marriott International. Labeled as the MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy, the collaboration is expected to deliver world-class benefits and incentives for guests of the two leading brands. Ahead of the debut of the MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy, expected “by early 2024,” MGM released details regarding the exceptional experiences for its guests.

According to the company, a number of resorts would be “headlining the MGM Collection.” MGM said that “four properties will also add their distinctive personalities to Marriott Bonvoy’s brand portfolio,” with the list including four leading casino and casino locations in Las Vegas. Those are the Bellagio, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, ARIA Resort and Casino, as well as Park MGM Las Vegas.

MGM Rewards Members to Be Eligible for Marriott Bonvoy Status

Besides the resorts that will be headlining the MGM Collection, the company released details regarding the potential conversion of MGM Rewards members eligible for status with Marriot Bonvoy. The leading gaming and entertainment company revealed that its MGM Rewards Gold members will be able to enroll with Marriot Bonvoy, becoming Marriot Bonvoy Silver Elite. On the other hand, MGM Rewards Platinum members will qualify for a Marriot Bonvoy Gold Elite status while MGM Rewards NOIR members would be eligible for Marriot Bonvoy Ambassador Elite status.

“Marriott Bonvoy and MGM Rewards will unlock significant benefits and experiences for members of both programs,“

reads a statement released by MGM Resorts International

MGM explained that thanks to Marriot Bonvoy and MGM Rewards, members of the two programs will be able to access thrilling experiences and benefits. The recent details come in anticipation of the launch of the collaboration between the two globally recognizable brands.

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Pennsylvania’s Washington County is expected to receive some $9.2 million in gaming funds for economic development and community projects. According to a report from Observer-Reporter, a news outlet headquartered in the county, this would be the largest share of local share account casino gambling revenue Washington has received in 14 years.

The Department of Community and Economic Development informed Washington officials about the allocation on Tuesday. The money will fund a variety of municipal and local projects, in line with the annual LSA program.

As mentioned, this is the most money the county has received for its LSA program since 2010 when it was provided $9.7 million. After that, Washington County received between $6 and $8 million a year for almost a decade and a half.

The LSA money Washington will receive is a portion of gambling money from Hollywood Casino at the Meadows in North Strabane. Since the gambling property was able to generate higher revenue this year, the LSA program will also receive benefits. According to local leaders, the extra money will help the country fund more projects this year.

Bob Griffin, executive director of the Redevelopment Authority of Washington County, commented on the matter, explaining that the larger LSA sum reflects an increase in gambling revenue. As a leader of the body that oversees the distribution of LSA funds, Griffin added that he is excited to provide funding to extra projects this year but reminded people that donations must be met with matching sums from the applicant.

Washington County Commissioner Nick Sherman was similarly enthusiastic about the money available for projects as part of the LSA program. He called the program a blessing for the local economic development and communities, saying that the county will now be able to provide money to organizations and communities that wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford them.

According to the Observer-Reporter, a full list of the applicants for LSA funding should be released later today. The projects are distributed into several categories, including community improvement, economic development, job training and public interest.

The LSA Committee will hold hearings on Tuesday and Wednesday when it will review the applications. Following that, the body will submit a recommendation to the county commissioners for final approval.

The Redevelopment Authority of Washington County will submit its single application for the projects to the DCED by March 31.

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Hard Rock Atlantic City is set to introduce its Unity loyal program today, allowing regular customers to benefit from a variety of promotions. The new program will replace the existing Wild Card program.

Unity is a loyalty scheme that is available across Hard Rock’s properties in North America. The unified scheme allows customers to enjoy the same benefits no matter which Unity-enabled venue in the region they visit.

While rates will vary depending on which Hard Rock property customers visit, they will be able to earn tier credits, comps and free play in all of the company’s properties. Hard Rock AC guests will now be able to download the mobile application and see what the fuss is all about.

Existing Wild Card members needn’t worry as they will be automatically onboarded to the new program. This seamless process will allow them to keep their existing tier points, balances and offers. While Wild Card members can change their card, they won’t be required to.

The transition from Wild Card to Unity was a gradual process in Atlantic City. The property onboarded some of its high-tier members last year and is now rolling out the program for all customers.

Players Can Earn Points in a Variety of Ways

The Unity program boasts four tiers, as follows:

The four tiers mirror the four Wild Card tiers (Premier, Elite, Royalty and X) and allow for an easy transition of existing consumers.

Hard Rock’s Unity program is available across 13 Hard Rock venues in North America, as well as at the Hard Rock Casino Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic.

The launch of Unity in Atlantic City comes in the wake of Hard Rock’s acquisition of WGames, which enabled the launch of Hard Rock Games. The latter is a social gaming platform that features a variety of free-to-play casino games. For reference, Hard Rock Games will also be integrated with the Unity program, allowing players to earn points they can later redeem at one of the company’s properties.

While players can play the Hard Rock Games at no cost, they can also enjoy a variety of paid offerings that allow them to earn points.

In other news, Hard Rock recently secured approval for its Kenosha property. A few days earlier, the company held a groundbreaking ceremony for its Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon.

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The British Columbia Lottery Corporation, a Canadian Crown gambling company, has unveiled a new program that allows employees to select their holidays. Under the new program, the BCLC will allow its workers to substitute up to six holidays for other days of the year.

Thanks to the new program, workers will be able to set their holidays for dates that have personal, cultural or religious significance to them. The announcement is in line with British Columbia’s multiculturalism week and demonstrates the BCLC’s desire to promote diversity and inclusion.

In addition to allowing its employees to pick their holidays, the BCLC will continue to implement inclusive policies that make its workers feel appreciated and welcomed. The company is guided by dedicated employee resource groups and is seeking to promote a “safe, equitable and barrier-free environment.”

However, the BCLC noted that there will be one exception to the substitution option, which is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The company said that this holiday aligns with the message it is trying to send, which is why it must be observed by all of its employees.

For reference, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day, takes place on September 30 each year and celebrates the legacy of the Canadian Indian residential school system.

Sandy Austin, the BCLC’s chief people officer, commented on the new changes. She pointed out that her company is an employer that recognizes there cannot be a “one size first all” approach when it comes to holidays. Since the gambling company wanted to promote inclusivity, it opted to provide its employees with an extra level of personalization when it comes to their days off.

This is another important step to build inclusive, equitable and safe workplaces and communities and we’re encouraging other employers to reach out to us to learn more.

Sandy Austin, chief people officer, BCLC

Madhavee Inamdar, BCLC’s manager of diversity, inclusion and belonging, also commented on the new program, praising it for acknowledging the individual values and beliefs of the company’s employees.

We are incredibly fortunate to have such a diverse workforce and are honoring that diversity and reaffirming our commitment to fostering an inclusive culture at BCLC where all employees feel that they are seen, valued and belong.

Madhavee Inamdar, manager of diversity, inclusion and belonging, BCLC

Earlier this year, the BCLC joined forces with Evolution to launch VIP games for high rollers.

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1. Gamanza, the well-known technology provider to the international iGaming industry, has announced the launch of a brand new loyalty program for Jackpots.ch, a certified and legally licensed online casino from Switzerland.

This is the first project developed by Gamanza’s player engagement unit and the company says it is the “first of its kind” in the Swiss iGaming market, which is fully regulated and also extremely competitive.

The loyalty program is expected to give players a fresh gaming experience and for the online casino operator it should improve player loyalty. Moreover, the new loyalty program should give the operator of Jackpots.ch opportunities for cross-promotion between its online brand and its land-based casino, Grand Casino Baden.

Gamanza Engage, the new player engagement business unit developed by Gamanza, has worked together with Jackpots.ch to develop this bespoke loyalty program in order to enhance the omni-channel player experience at the casino.

With this program, players are given the opportunity to accumulate points for their activity at the casino and advance through a ranking system with several levels which promise exciting rewards at each step.

Moreover, players will have the chance to collect Jackpots coins which can then be spent in the reward shop on bonuses, vouchers and technology gadgets. The physical prizes can be redeemed at the Grand Casino Baden restaurant or in the land-based casino.

The loyalty program also presents several engaging tools, including level and coin boosters that give players opportunities to accumulate coins or points at a faster rate than usual for a limited period of time.

The new program also comes with a new marketing initiative which gives Jackpots.ch the chance to offer its players opportunities to earn more points and coins on selected games or game categories during a promotional period.

A Huge Milestone

Delia Töpfer, Head of Customer Success Management at Grand Casino Baden stated, described the launch of the new loyalty program as “a huge milestone in the history of jackpots.ch.”

The Grand Casino Baden executive also acknowledged the contribution of Gamanza in the creation of the program and underlined that the achievement is part of the company’s brand marketing strategy.

Robert Civill, Chief Commercial Officer at Gamanza, declared himself “very proud” to see the project finally go live and also expressed his belief that Gamanza Engage “is going to set new standards for the industry.”

Source: “Gamanza Powers Jackpots.ch’s Exciting New Loyalty Program“. European Gaming. October 23, 2023.

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Prominent tribal gaming operator Mohegan proudly celebrates the 10th anniversary of its highly acclaimed loyalty program, Momentum. This milestone underscores Mohegan’s unwavering dedication to enhancing the gaming experience for its loyal patrons. The Momentum program has steadily evolved to offer many exclusive benefits and will continue to grow as the operator expands its global footprint.

Momentum Has Steadily Grown in Scope and Ambition

Mohegan’s Momentum loyalty program is more than just a rewards system. It is a token of appreciation from Mohegan to its players. One of its standout features is that it is free, with no membership fees or hidden costs. Players can easily enroll and become part of this exclusive community, unlocking significant perks and privileges.

Over the years, Mohegan has continuously enhanced the Momentum loyalty program. It extends beyond the gaming floor and includes perks like reserved parking privileges. Mohegan corporate marketing VP Erica Tessier Hunt noted that the program demonstrated the operator’s unwavering bond with its guests and would continue to improve.

We are proud of what we have offered the past ten years… and look forward to future enhancements to Momentum that will… offer unparalleled experiences.

Erica Tessier Hunt, Mohegan corporate marketing VP

At the heart of Momentum lies the concept of Momentum Dollars, an exclusive currency players can accumulate as they engage with Mohegan’s offerings. Patrons can redeem these Momentum Dollars for wide-reaching rewards, ranging from tangible goods to services and luxury experiences. Such a dynamic system encourages players to keep returning, knowing their loyalty is truly valued.

Mohegan Remains Dedicated to Delivering Outstanding Service

The operator will celebrate Momentum’s anniversary with several new member-only events. These gatherings offer a unique opportunity for players to connect, share experiences, and enjoy special perks. Such initiatives are crucial for player retention and align with Mohegan’s proactive, customer-focused mindset. The operator’s 2023 Hot Summer Fun Celebrations proved a smashing hit, cementing its leadership position.

Momentum will soon reach far overseas as Mohegan prepares to launch its newest $5 billion resort in Incheon, South Korea. This remarkable project should launch before 2024 and feature world-class amenities, promising a fusion of luxury, entertainment, and convenience. The venue’s newly announced leadership team promised to provide the same high-quality service and perks synonymous with the Mohegan brand.

By offering exclusive benefits, hosting member-only events, and recognizing player loyalty, Mohegan ensures that its customers have more than just a gaming experience. They have a lasting connection with a brand that values and appreciates them. As the journey continues, Mohegan remains dedicated to making Momentum even more rewarding for the years to come.

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