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's state-owned horse race betting operator, Norsk Rikstoto, reported a 4 percent decrease in gross gaming revenue (GGR) for the year 2023. Despite this decline, the operator managed to contribute NOK516 million (€44.0 million) to Norwegian equestrian sport.  

Turnover from racing products experienced a similar 4 percent decrease, amounting to NOK3.14 billion (€268.8 million). Notably, NOK1.75 billion (€149.8 million) was generated from betting on foreign horse races, highlighting the diverse nature of Norsk Rikstoto's offerings.  

After paying out NOK2.19 billion (187.5 million) in winnings to players, Norsk Rikstoto's GGR stood at NOK952.2 million (€81.5 million), reflecting the overall decline compared to the previous year. Despite this, the operator's net operating income surpassed NOK1.0 billion (€85.6 million), albeit still down by 4 percent year-on-year.  

Norsk Rikstoto emphasized its commitment to responsible gambling and operational efficiency under 's new gambling law. The operator reduced total operating expenses by 6 percent, focusing on cost optimization while maintaining a solid foundation for its operations.  

Despite the revenue decline, Norsk Rikstoto continued its significant contributions to equestrian sport in Norway. The operator paid NOK515.8 million (€44.1 million) to good causes in the sector, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the community and creating positive societal impact.  

In a Gaming Intelligence report, Norsk Rikstoto's managing director, Camilla Garmann, was quoted highlighting the importance of equestrian sport in Norwegian society, emphasizing its role in inclusion, health, and job creation. The operator remains dedicated to supporting equestrian activities and distributing profits to various stakeholders within the industry.  

While facing a revenue decline in 2023, Norsk Rikstoto maintains its focus on responsible gambling, operational efficiency, and supporting Norwegian equestrian sport. Despite challenges, the operator continues to play a vital role in contributing to the welfare of the community and promoting the sport of horse racing in the country.  

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Macau's international visitor arrivals have shown a remarkable recovery, reaching 68.2 percent of 2019 levels in the first quarter of 2024. 584,026 foreign tourists visited during this period, signifying a robust resurgence in tourism activity. 

Data from Macau’s shows that the Philippines emerged as the leading source market for the Special Administrative Region’s (SAR) international visitors, with over 114,000 tourists arriving in the first quarter. This represents a substantial 23.7 percent increase compared to the same period in 2019. The proximity of Macau to Hong Kong may have contributed to this surge, given the significant number of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Hong Kong. 

Visitor numbers from Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand have also rebounded significantly, reaching 70.8 percent, 89.2 percent, and 89.2 percent of their respective 2019 levels. This resurgence underscores the gradual recovery of tourism from Southeast Asian countries to Macau. 

However, visitor numbers from Northeast Asian markets, particularly South Korea and Japan, have lagged. Macau received only around half of its pre-COVID levels of Korean visitors and around 40 percent of Japanese visitors in the first quarter of 2024. 

In long-haul markets, visitors from the U.S. have shown a moderate rebound, reaching 66.5 percent of the 2019 first-quarter level. While not as robust as some regional markets, this recovery indicates a gradual resurgence in long-haul tourism to Macau. 

Overall, 's visitor arrivals surged by an impressive 79.4 percent year-on-year in the first quarter of 2024, totalling 8,875,757. This recovery represents 85.7 percent of the figure recorded in the same quarter of 2019, highlighting a significant step towards pre-pandemic tourism levels. 

Upcoming SiGMA event: SiGMA Asia 2024, 3 – 5 June. Find all the details .

The Ministry of Finance of Brazil has recently confirmed the appointment of Régis Anderson Dudena as the inaugural President of the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting (SPA). This confirmation, announced via a decree in the Official Gazette of the Union, marks a significant milestone in the evolution of

Dudena, a legal scholar with an extensive background in the legal sector, has previously advised the government on key issues related to the Ministry of Finance. His appointment comes at a crucial time as the SPA, Brazil’s regulatory body for upcoming betting markets, is setting a federal framework for sports betting and online gambling activities.

Dudena’s personal background is as impressive as his professional achievements. He is a seasoned lawyer with expertise in Public and Regulatory Law. He pursued advanced studies in Law at the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), where he is currently a PhD student. Throughout his career, Dudena has held various positions of responsibility in both the public and private sectors, including serving as a partner in a law firm specialising in Legislative and Regulatory Advocacy. He also served as the legal superintendent of Desenvolvimento São Paulo, the Development Agency of the State of São Paulo, and as a legal advisor to the presidency of the Development Bank of Minas Gerais.

As the leader of the SPA, Dudena will oversee a department of 38 experts who are accountable to eight governors, each responsible for aspects of Brazil’s economic and financial governance. In April, the SPA disclosed its intent to finalise the betting market’s regulatory framework through a ‘four-phase execution,’ developing technical ordinances on payment authorizations, safer gambling duties, and market protection.

The previous week, the SPA issued its payment-related technical ordinances, upholding the government’s prohibition on credit card transactions and bonus incentives. Dudena’s appointment aligns with the Ministry of Finance’s plan to introduce the betting market in 2024, which is contingent on the completion of these technical ordinances.

The appointment of Regis Dudena marks His extensive legal background and experience in public and regulatory law make him an ideal leader to navigate the complexities of this emerging market. As Brazil moves forward with its plans to regulate sports betting and online gambling activities, the industry will undoubtedly benefit from Dudena’s leadership and expertise.

In 2023, France’s sports betting and gaming operators witnessed a significant milestone. Their gross gaming revenues (GGR) rose by 3.5 percent year-on-year, reaching a record €13.4 billion. This growth was observed across all market verticals, marking the highest level of activity ever recorded by the sector.

The national regulator, the Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ),linked to the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the ANJ also issued a reminder to operators about the need for responsible gambling practices. With major events like the Euro 2024 football tournament and the Paris 2024 Olympic Games on the horizon, operators were urged to ensure that intensification of playing patterns does not accelerate in 2024.

The growth of the gambling sector in France, as indicated by a 3.5 percent increase in Gross Gaming Revenues (GGR) to €13.4 billion in 2023, is noteworthy. The European gambling market, which includes both online and offline sectors, accounts for 49 percentof the global market. The European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) provides an overview of the online gambling operations of its members within the EU and UK. However, specific growth rates for individual countries in 2023 are not readily available.

In terms of the sports betting industry, Europe is currently estimated to be worth $44.5 million (approximately €41.5 million), with forecasts predicting its value to reach $89.9 million (approximately €83.9 million) by 2030.

While these figures provide a broad overview, the growth rates can vary significantly between countries and sectors (online vs offline, types of gambling, etc.). Therefore, while France’s growth is impressive, it’s important to consider it in the context of these broader trends and variations across Europe.

The growth of France’s gambling sector is in line with the general upward trend observed in Europe, albeit with country-specific and sector-specific variations. The challenge for all countries, including France, will be to balance this growth with the need for responsible gambling practices. This is particularly relevant given the upcoming major sporting events like the Euro 2024 football tournament and the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

Despite the impressive growth, French operators lagged slightly behind the European market growth rate of 5.5 percent (or €134 billion GGR). However, the ANJ noted that France’s growth was in line with other major markets such as Germany, the UK, and Spain.

Isabelle Falque-Pierrotin, President of ANJ, commented on the sector’s performance, stating, “The healthy state of the market demonstrates that demanding regulation is not a brake on development. This growth makes the objective of reducing the number of excessive gamblers, which the ANJ has placed at the heart of its action for the coming years, all the more relevant.”

Francaise des Jeux (FDJ) and PMU, with €6.6 billion anFDJ’s land-based and online sports betting grew by 10.4 percent to €1 billion, accounting for 16.2 percent of the group’s total GGR. Following its integration of online horse racing tote operator ZEturf in Q3, FDJ is now present in all online gaming segments.

PMU’s business grew by 1 percent in 2023, reaching €1.7 billion in GGR, marking a return to its pre-pandemic levels. The group also modified five of its products and optimized its racing calendar to boost its business.

French casino operators’ GGR grew by 8 percent to a record €2.7 billion. Almost 74 percent of the country’s 200 land-based establishments returned to higher levels than in 2019. Slot machines contributed more than 80% of the GGR. Paris, the capital, counts seven gaming clubs, and their GGR rose by almost 11 percent to €119 million in 2023.

Online operators’ GGR was up 7.2 percent to €2.3 billion, representing 17.5 percent of the total market. The digital segment is driven by sports betting at 63 percent, online poker at 21.6 percent, and online horse racing tote betting at 15 percent.

While the total number of unique players rose to 3.6 million, online sports betting was the only segment not to see an increase in the number of active accounts. However, its GGR was still up by 6.4 percent to €1.5 billion, and stakes were up 2.2 percent to €8.5 billion.

The lack of a major sporting event appears to have led to a decrease in the pool of unique players. This lack of new player accounts was offset by an increase in the average stakes per active account of 6.3 percent to €1,982. The ANJ warned that this may lead to more intensive gambling practices.

Online horse race betting returned to growth, with its GGR up by almost 2 percent to €353 million and stakes of €1.5 billion at 5 percent. The number of activities rose by 4.5 percent, and unique players were up by 1.5 percent, indicating that horse racing tote betting is attracting new players.

Online poker saw a strong upturn in activity, surpassing the records set during the health (COVID) crisis with its GGR up 14 percent to €504 million. The ANJ noted that from 2019-2023, the segment’s growth has been significant.

In conclusion, while France’s gambling sector has seen impressive growth, the challenge lies in balancing this growth with responsible gambling practices. As the sector continues to evolve, the role of regulators like the ANJ will be crucial in ensuring a sustainable and responsible gambling environment.

New South Wales authorities affirm Crown Resorts' eligibility to maintain its Sydney casino licence, citing satisfactory remediation efforts. 

Crown Resorts has received validation from the New South Wales Independent Casino Commission (NICC) for its substantial remediation initiatives. The NICC recognized the group's comprehensive overhaul of its operations, encompassing reforms in harm minimization, financial crime prevention, governance, compliance, and risk management. 

The company disclosed an investment of approximately AU$200 million (€121 million) towards its transformation endeavours, which included the implementation of rigorous standards to combat money laundering. Crown Resorts has introduced Crown PlaySafe, a harm minimization program, and adopted cashless gaming across all electronic table games (ETGs) as part of its ongoing commitment to preventing financial crimes. 

According to its website, Crown PlaySafe Centres are open 24-hours a day in all three of its Australian Resorts and provide a range of services for all guests that are designed to keep gambling fun and minimise gambling harms. It added that the centres are staffed by a dedicated and professional team within each Resort. 

Crown Resorts aims to collaborate closely with the NICC to fulfil the outlined requirements of its review. Mark McWhinnie, CEO of , expressed appreciation for the NICC's decision, emphasizing the genuine and sustainable changes implemented by the company to uphold the highest industry standards. 

Meanwhile, Ciarán Carruthers, CEO of Crown Resorts, highlighted the profound transformation undertaken by the company over the past two years, emphasizing a paradigm shift in corporate culture and operations. He asserted that the revitalized Crown Resorts has emerged as a beacon of integrity and excellence in the Australian corporate landscape. 

While affirming Crown Resorts' suitability for a gaming licence in Melbourne, authorities in Victoria are conducting an ongoing investigation into Crown Perth. Despite this scrutiny, the group's successful retention of its Sydney casino licence reflects its unwavering commitment to compliance and reform across its portfolio of properties. 

Upcoming SiGMA event: SiGMA Asia 2024, 3 - 5 June. Find all the details .

The Puerto Rican Senate has given its stamp of approval to a new set of regulations concerning This move comes after the Gaming Commission presented the proposed regulations on 1 March.

This week, the Senate approved the new Regulation for the Issuance, Management, and Control of Licenses for Slot Route Gaming Machines. This action aligns with the commitment expressed by the President of the Senate, José Luis Dalmau Santiago, as reported by local media outlet El Sol de Puerto Rico.

Senate Concurrent Resolution 58 clarifies that the proposed regulation must undergo evaluation by the Legislative Assembly. This is to ensure its complete and faithful compliance with the statute before its approval, which should occur within 45 days from the notification.

Dalmau Santiago, (pictured above), referring to Concurrent Resolution 57, explained why the previous regulation was rejected. He said, “Since I spoke with you in the last session and expressed why the past regulation was being rejected, we addressed the concerns and that is why we filed this amended regulation.”

He also refuted claims that the Senate was not giving way to the regulation. He clarified, “The Gaming Commission is working on a draft, and when they file it, I will attend to it. The conversations are so advanced that this morning, the gaming commissioner told me that maybe they will file it today.” This statement was made before the new regulation was received on Wednesday.

The proposed regulation outlines the nd rights that all interested parties must adhere to when requesting or renewing their licenses for route gaming machines. It also applies to those interested in obtaining or renewing the Licenses for Wholesaler Owners, Business Owners, Manufacturers, Distributors, and Suppliers of Goods and Services of Slot Route Gaming Machines, as reported by local media Microjuris.

Furthermore, the regulation stipulates the operational and oversight procedures that the Gaming Commission, or the corresponding Bureau if created, must follow when awarding such Licenses.

The primary objective of these Regulations is to regulate the management of these licenses and to establish the penalties that may be imposed on any person who fails to comply with the provisions of the Law and the Regulations. This marks a significant step towards regulating the gaming industry in Puerto Rico.

Suntrust Resort Holdings, a gaming operator in the Philippines, has finalized a loan agreement with LET Group Holdings, securing $38 million (€36.6 million) to finance the ongoing development of the . LET Group Holdings, formerly known as Suncity Group, serves as the controlling shareholder of Suntrust Resort Holdings. 

As of December 31, 2023, significant progress has been made in the Westside City Project construction. The structural work and tower facade up to the roof level have been completed, except the facade at the middle portion of the skybridge. 

Under the terms of the loan agreement, LET Group has agreed to extend the $38 million (€36.6 million) loan to , with a repayment period of 10 years from the execution date. However, the repayment period may be extended by mutual agreement or shortened in the event of default. Suntrust anticipates that the loan will not negatively impact its business, operations, or financial condition, as it is expected to enhance the company's prospects. 

The Main Hotel Casino of the Westside City Project is set to offer 475 luxurious hotel rooms and suites, along with a spacious ballroom capable of accommodating up to 550 people. Additionally, the establishment will feature a range of support facilities, including meeting rooms and a bridal room.

In its latest filing to the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE), Suntrust indicated a delay of at least three months from the initially expected start of the Westside City operations in the fourth quarter of 2024 to the first quarter of 2025. 

Upon opening, the casino will boast 281 gaming tables, 1,126 slot machines, and 134 electronic table games (ETGs), catering to both mass-market and VIP clientele. The property will also include state-of-the-art entertainment facilities, such as two theatres seating 1,000 and 800 guests, a grand opera house, and a performing arts theatre seating 3,000. Moreover, a mall comprising food and beverage outlets, retail units, and four cinemas will complement the entertainment offerings. The project will also provide ample parking space, with over 1,000 slots available. 

By securing this loan, Suntrust Resort Holdings is poised to further advance the development of the Westside City Project, contributing to the growth of Manila's Entertainment City and the broader tourism sector in the Philippines. 

Imperial Pacific International (CNMI) LLC, a prominent casino operator based in Saipan, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy with the U.S. District Court. The company claims it owes creditors more than US$150 million, a significant amount that has led to this drastic measure. The bankruptcy filing comes just days before a long-awaited hearing scheduled to determine the fate of IPI’s casino license.

The timing of the bankruptcy filing raises questions, given IPI’s well-known financial issues. It is unclear why the company chose to file for bankruptcy at this particular juncture. However, the move follows shortly after its parent company Imperial Pacific International (IPI), was ordered to be wound up by a Hong Kong court, and a provisional receiver was appointed.

IPI’s casino licence was suspended in April 2021 due to the company’s failure to pay license and regulatory fees. In an attempt to rectify the situation, IPI put forward a settlement plan in which it promised to repay US$24 million in late licence and regulatory fees before the end of the year. This plan was presented during an earlier hearing, which was subsequently put on hold.

The upcoming hearing, scheduled for today, is set to finally determine whether or not to revoke IPI’s casino licence. The Commonwealth Casino Commission, the body responsible for this decision, has been closely monitoring the situation

The company has seen many of its assets sold off by receivers to pay down debts. The building that houses its hotel and casino remains incomplete, with construction work having halted during the COVID-19 pandemic. This presents a significant challenge for the company, as it attempts to navigate its way through these financial difficulties.

Despite these challenges, IPI has stated that it will “vigorously defend” its exclusive gaming rights on Saipan. This suggests

In conclusion, the future of Imperial Pacific International (CNMI) LLC hangs in the balance as it faces a critical hearing that could determine the fate of its casino license. The company’s recent bankruptcy filing adds another layer of complexity to an already challenging situation. As the company navigates through these difficulties, stakeholders and observers alike will be keenly watching the outcomes of these developments.

Thailand’s acting national police chief, Pol. Gen Kitrat Panphet, has suspended deputy chief Surachate Hakparn and four other police officers due to their alleged link to an online gambling network.   

According to the report of the Bangkok Post, the suspension, which was signed into effect immediately, underscores the seriousness of the accusations.  

The five suspended officers, including Pol. Col. Kittichai Sangkhathaworn and Pol. Lt. Col Krit Pariyaket, are suspected of involvement in money laundering connected to the BNK Master gambling network. The decision to suspend them follows a disciplinary investigation, supported by court-approved warrants for their arrest.  

Following the suspension, Kitrat discussed the matter with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. The accused officers have the right to petition against the order. Kitrat also initiated a new investigative committee, comprising 14 police officers. The committee will delve into the roles of the suspended officers. Previous investigations revealed intricate financial transactions, including money transfers to personal accounts and cash deliveries to Surachate's residence.  

The report said that the suspension of senior officers and the ongoing investigation sends a strong message about the zero-tolerance stance on corruption and unlawful activities within law enforcement agencies in the Southeast Asian country. It also highlights the importance of ethical conduct and upholding the rule of law.  

Moving forward, the actions taken by authorities will be closely monitored, and the outcomes of the investigation will shape public perception of law enforcement integrity. Restoring trust and confidence in the police force hinges on thorough and impartial proceedings.  

The news comes after the Southeast Asia country made its moves to  casinos. Thailand’s government has taken a significant step toward the legalisation of casinos within integrated resorts, with the cabinet endorsing a report from a special House committee that recommends this course of action.   

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Shin Hwa World Ltd, a Hong Kong-listed casino developer renowned for its Jeju Shinhwa World complex in South Korea, has unveiled a comprehensive capital reorganization strategy. Among its measures is a significant endeavour to raise HK$263.7 million (€31.5 million) through a rights issue.  

Earlier this month, the company  its financial report for the fiscal year 2023, showing a significant downturn in consolidated revenue and an alarming surge in losses. Based on the report, Shin Hwa World’s consolidated revenue in 2023 declined to approximately $128.8 million (€119.2 million), marking a 25.3 percent decrease from the previous year’s figure of approximately $166.1 million (€154.7 million).    

In its disclosure to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, Shin Hwa World detailed the components of the capital reorganization. Alongside the rights issue, the company intends to execute a share consolidation. This entails consolidating every 10 existing shares of HKD0.01 each into one HKD0.10 share.   

Additionally, a capital reduction will take place, rounding down each shareholder's issued share capital to the nearest whole number and cancelling any fractional shares. The resulting surplus credits will be redirected to the company's 'surplus account.'  

With approximately 5.07 billion existing shares in circulation, Shin Hwa World Ltd expects to generate a surplus of approximately HK$45.6 million (€5.4 million) through the capital reduction process.  

Following the announcement of the capital reorganization, Shin Hwa's stock witnessed a notable decline of nearly 18 percent on Friday, signalling investor response to the proposed measures.  

In December 2020, Yang Zhihui, Shin Hwa World's shareholder, faced an investigation by the China Securities Regulatory Commission for suspected market manipulation. Subsequently, Yang resigned as a director of Shin Hwa in June 2023, marking a significant event in the company's recent history.  

Upcoming SiGMA event: BIS SiGMA Americas 2024, find all the details .