Issue : Vol. 10 • No. 5 • February 6, 2012

GGB NEWS February 6, 2012

Mickey’s Revenge

The Florida casino bill is dead after a House committee fails to vote on it. Supporters could not overcome a coalition of anti-gaming forces, led by Disney, to make the case for more jobs and increased tourism to the economically struggling state. Genting stands to be the big loser because of the massive investment it has made in Florida.       
 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: State of Confusion

The December ruling by the Justice Department about the legality of online lottery ticket sales has opened up the logjam on potential online gaming legalization. With Congress seemingly at an impasse about the issue, states are taking the lead. And it’s many more states than just the gaming hotbeds of Nevada and New Jersey. Read this complete report on the actions in each state considering online gaming.

Rank Wants Gala Coral’s Casinos

The U.K. casino market is on the verge of another major consolidation. Rank Group is attempting to add the casinos of Gala Coral to its current stable and become the biggest operator in the land overnight.

 
Caesars Announces IPO

In another attempt to launch a public offering, Caesars Entertainment last week announced that it would sell almost 2 million shares of stock in an effort to return to the public sector after being taken private in 2008. Chairman Gary Loveman and other insiders will sell additional shares if the IPO is successful.

Okada Breaks Ground in Philippines

Kazuo Okada (in white behind podium with PAGCOR Chairman Cristino “Bong” Naguiat) has broken ground on his company’s integrated resort project in the Philippines. Tiger Resorts, Leisure and Entertainment is building a $2 billion property capable of competing with similar properties in the region—which could be at the root of the current unpleasantness between buddies Okada and Steve Wynn.

 
New Year, New Jump

Macau gaming revenues benefitted from both the western and the Chinese new years. After a year of explosive growth, not much has changed as revenues were up 35 percent from January 2011. At left, the lines entering Macau at the border crossing.

  
Atlantic City Adopts New Master Plan

A new master plan for Atlantic City has been approved by the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority. The ambitious roadmap envisions a cleaner, safer and more ecologically friendly city, with state-of-the-art attractions incorporating light, sound and wind, as well as an upgrade to urban spaces to transform the resort town into a year-round, world-class destination.

Wynn Appeals to Have Okada’s Suit Dismissed

Wynn Resorts last week appealed to a Nevada judge to have a lawsuit brought by former vice chairman and current Wynn board member Kazuo Okada dismissed, citing SEC regulations and corporate transparency.      

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Paying a Dividend

In the past, most gaming companies did not pay dividends to shareholders because they claimed to be plowing the profits back into growth for the company. Today, that has changed and many of gaming’s most popular companies are now rewarding shareholders with dividends.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: David L. Rebuck, Director, New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement

This week the Global Gaming Business Podcast features a conversation with David L. Rebuck, the director of New Jersey’s Division of Gaming Enforcement, on the recent regulatory reforms under way in Atlantic City’s casinos.

Issue : Vol. 10 • No. 4 • January 30, 2012

GGB NEWS January 30, 2012

A Fond Farewell

The International Casino Exposition has known no other home but the Earl’s Court convention center in London, but with plans to demolish that facility to add new housing, ICE was forced to relocate. The final event held at Earl’s Court was a momentous one and a healthy mix of land-based and online casino suppliers vied for attention on a packed exhibit floor.      
 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Battling Bills to Buck Ban

Sports betting is the hot topic in New Jersey as two congressmen, Rep. Frank Pallone and Rep. Frank LoBiondo, have each unveiled legislation that would amend the 1992 federal ban. Following a new law that allows for sports wagering at Atlantic City casinos if the federal ban is overturned, Pallone’s bill would aim to make New Jersey exempt from federal restrictions, while LoBiondo seeks to give all states the right to opt out of the federal ban.

Report: California Tribes Plan Online Poker

Last week, rumors that one or more California tribes are preparing to launch an online poker site before either the federal or state governments pass a bill. Meanwhile, a hearing has been announced for the he Senate Committee on Indian Affairs for February 9 to consider how tribes will participate in the online gaming industry.

 
Massachusetts: Don’t Expect Quick Action on Casinos

Don’t expect to see Bay State casinos being approved for at least a couple of years says the state’s top gaming regulator, Stephen Crosby. The contemplative new chairman of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission is still mulling exactly “what is the public good” and how his job relates to that.

PAGCOR 2011 Revenue Hits $850 Million

Philippine gaming operator and regulator PAGCOR posted record revenue from both areas of activity in 2011. Chairman and CEO Cristino Naguiat believes success will continue as the Entertainment City Manila projects come online.

 
$245 Million Casino Coming To Lansing?

Plans for a $245 million, 125,000 square foot casino in downtown Lansing, Michigan recently were announced by the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians and the mayor. The casino is projected to earn $250 million in annual gross revenues and provide 1,500 permanent jobs, according to Sault Tribal Chairman Joe Eitrem.

   
Madrid Leaders Like LVS Proposal

Sheldon Adelson is looking to move ahead with his project to create a Las Vegas Strip in Spain. The political leaders in one of his favored locations, the Madrid region, have come out supporting the plan. But Adelson’s demanding regulatory quid pro quo is almost certain to inspire political opposition.

‘Three’ Bidders for Austrian Casino Packet

The opening of the Austrian casino market has begun. Sort of. The Finance Ministry has received three bids for the first bundle of six licenses, which bundling is being protested by Novomatic, the parent of two of the bidders.     

Galaxy Not Worried About Sands Latest

Francis Lui, the co-chairman of Galaxy Entertainment, says that he’s not worried about the upcoming opening of Cotai Central, Sands China’s newest project, because Galaxy Macau is a “complete” property.

Pennsylvania Passes New Jersey

Pennsylvania has eclipsed New Jersey as the No. 2 gaming jurisdiction in the United States, second only to Nevada, with more than $3 billion in revenue last year. Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem is the state leader.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Pennsylvania 6-5000

No, it’s not a phone number but it could be the revenues of one of the state’s casinos. The reports of the state’s casinos exceeding the Atlantic City revenues are misleading and may even be bogus.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Sean Lanni, Executive Director, International Business Development, MGM Resorts

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Sean Lanni, the executive director for international business development, for MGM Resorts on his role in the company and the influence his father, the late Terry Lanni, had on his professional career.

Issue : Vol. 10 • No. 3 • January 23, 2012

GGB NEWS January 23, 2012

Paradise Misplaced

The debt problems weighing on Kerzner International’s Atlantis property just got worse. Brookfield, the creditor that was going to step in and take over, has pulled out of the deal. Now the impact of the court-ruling inspired decision is creating ripples in the Bahamas’ political world. And legendary developer Sol Kerzner has stepped down as CEO of Kerzner International but remains as chairman of the company.     
 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: A Real Sport

New Jersey Governor Chris Christie has signed a bill to allow Atlantic City casinos and state racetracks to accept wagers on athletic events. The bill, which quickly worked its way through both Houses, would give the state ammunition to challenge a 1992 federal ban on sports wagering.

Okada Ramps Up Wynn Attack

The battle royal between Kazuo Okada and Steve Wynn stepped up another level last week as Okada petitioned to replace three board members, and possibly a fourth—Wynn’s ex-wife, Elaine, whose position on the conflict is unknown.

 
‘Let’s Think big,’ says Massachusetts Gaming Czar

Although he won’t actually have any authority until the rest of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission is named, Chairman Stephen Crosby is already talking about what he would like to see potential casino developers propose. His message is: think big and think creatively.

Don’t Rush Us, says Ohio’s Gaming Commission

The Ohio Casino Control Commission refuses to be rushed in doing its job before allowing the first of four casinos authorized by the voters to open. The commission is doing background checks that can take up to 18 months, in just a few months. Recently it was forced to concede that the opening set by the Cleveland Horseshoe Casino for March would not happen.

 
Potawatomi Will Build Milwaukee Hotel

Ground will be broken this summer for a $150-million, 20-story, 382-room hotel next to the Forest County Potawatomi Community’s Bingo Casino in Milwaukee. The tribe said the 4-star/4-diamond-level hotel will create 230 permanent jobs and generate nearly $10 million per year in additional revenues.

   
Young Launches Spin Games

Former Aristocrat and Aruze Gaming executive Kent Young has launched a new premium slot content firm based in Reno, called Spin Games.

Ontario Lottery Studies Toronto Casino

The possibility that the provincial lottery of Ontario, Canada might decide to expand into Toronto has border towns that have casinos, including Niagara Falls, worried about the competition killing the goose that lays the golden egg. Finance Minister Dwight Duncan is “open” to the idea.      

Kaminkow Leaves IGT

Prominent slot developer Joe Kaminkow has resigned from his position at the head of the premium game studio of slot leader International Game Technology.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Expansion Plans

With a new drive for gaming legalization in many U.S. states, the motivations remain the same but the logic may differ. How will that impact the success of new casinos?

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Rick Mazer, Regional President, Harrah's Las Vegas, Imperial Palace, O'Shea’s, Flamingo and Bill's Gambling Hall

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Rick Mazer, the regional president of Harrah's Las Vegas, Imperial Palace, O'Shea’s, Flamingo and Bill's Gambling Hall on the Las Vegas Strip about the exciting things happening that side of the highway, including the Linq project.

Issue : Vol. 10 • No. 2 • January 16, 2012

GGB NEWS January 16, 2012

Battle of Titans

A rift has developed on the board of Wynn Resorts pitting the chairman, Steve Wynn, against the former vice chairman and single-largest shareholder in the company, Kazuo Okada (l). A lawsuit filed last week by Okada requesting to see some financial statements followed a bid at the last Wynn board meeting to oust the vice chairman. Okada’s Universal Entertainment is connected to the grey market pachinko industry in Japan and has begun building a casino in Manila.     
 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE:  South Korea Plans $3 Billion IR

South Korea appears to have jumped into the lead in the race to announce the next integrated resort in the Asian market. Plans to install a $3 billion integrated resort near the main international airport are lacking only a final agreement and the name of the U.S.-based developer. But all U.S. companies have insisted that locals be permitted to gamble before they agreed to invest.

Committee OKs Florida Casino Bill

The mega-resort bill, which could bring three massive casinos, including one planned by Malaysian gambling firm Genting (l.), to South Florida, passes its first challenge in a Senate committee. But there are many hurdles to overcome and opposition is mounting.

 
International Game Technology Buys Social Gaming Company Double Down Interactive

In an effort to improve its position in the social gaming industry, IGT has purchased Double Down Interactive. The buy is anticipated to contribute rapid user and revenue growth. The combination allows IGT to leverage Facebook distribution channel, and should be accretive to IGT’s fiscal year 2012 adjusted earnings. (Listen to an interview with Glenn Walcott, the president of DoubleDown Interactive.)

Thinking Big in NYC

Genting rolls out plan for what could be the largest convention center in the U.S., at Resorts World at Aqueduct. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo is all for it since it will cost the state nothing. And Brooklyn’s Coney Island is making a bid to be a casino location.

 
Northern Edge Navajo Casino Opens

The $60 million Northern Edge Navajo Casino will open Monday near Farmington, New Mexico. Operated by the Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise, the 86,000-square-foot casino will showcase original work by Navajo artists.

   
Kyrgyzstan Shuts Down Gaming

Kyrgyzstan has joined the likes of Russia and Kazakhstan by shutting down all gaming venues in the country. The anticipated action occurred on January 1 as proscribed by law passed in autumn 2011.   


Bally at 80

Bally Technologies executives ring the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the company’s founding.     

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Anthony Sanfilippo, President and CEO, Pinnacle Entertainment

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Anthony Sanfilippo, the president and CEO of Pinnacle Entertainment on why he joined the company and what he hopes to create as leader of the innovative regional operator.

Issue : Vol. 10 • No. 1 • January 9, 2012

GGB NEWS January 9, 2012

Not So Fast

The “green light” given online gaming by last month’s Department of Justice decision concerning lottery ticket sales on the internet, may be the tiniest bit premature, given the narrow focus of the letter and traditional opposition to gambling. But that hasn’t stopped online gaming advocates and investors in climbing on board what they see as a potential gravy train as states begin to jockey for position to legalize the activity.     
 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Everything But the Kitchen Sink

A revised bill tries to stroke all parties as the potential casino bidders jockey for position. Florida state Senator Dennis Jones wants an up-or-down vote on the destination resort bill the day before the official legislative session begins, but Senator Ellyn Bogdanoff, the bill’s sponsor, wants it delayed.

Macau Shatters Yearly Revenue Record

Analysts were boo-hooing “disappointing” December results, but the Macau gaming industry was not crying about the yearly totals, up more than 40 percent over revenues in 2010, which was a good year by itself. The market share race is increasingly landing in favor of Sands China, even before it opens Cotai Central (l.) early this year.

 
Cuomo: Let’s Get in the Game in New York

New York Governor touts economic growth, jobs creation with full-scale non-tribal casinos in the Empire State. The Seneca tribe is fighting back with ads opposing the plan. And Cuomo wants to enhance one existing casino, Resorts World New York at Aqueduct with a huge new convention center.

Richard Haddrill Elected AGA Board Chairman

Bally Technologies CEO Richard Haddrill has been elected the new chairman of the American Gaming Association, replacing Boyd Gaming President Keith Smith. MGM Resorts International’s Jim Murren was chosen as vice chairman.

 
Bermuda Inching Towards Gaming

Bermuda has wrested with the question of allowing casino gaming for a number of years. Previous attempts have met with rejection of the idea by citizens and government alike. However, some recent polls are giving certain politicians, such as Charles and Kim Swan new hope.

   
Kentucky: Law or Referendum?

As the new legislative session begins in Kentucky, lawmakers are weighing which road to travel in the effort to expand gaming in the state—by legislation or by constitutional referendum. Governor Steve Beshear favors a vote.
   

 
Cyprus Exploring Casino Options

The government of Cyprus has flirted with legalizing casino gaming for years but never followed through. Now it appears conditions are finally right—as soon as a location is agreed for a single casino. Will Las Vegas Sands and CEO Sheldon Adelson be the ones to build it?     

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Supply Side Economics

For several years, investors have shied away from the slot manufacturers. The replacement cycle, server-based gaming and service windows have promised increased sales, but have not fully delivered. But hope springs eternal.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Whitaker Askew, Vice President of Government Affairs, American Gaming Association

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Whitaker Askew, the vice president of government affairs for the American Gaming Association, about the federal issues facing the gaming industry, including the pressing subject of online poker.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 50 • December 26, 2011

GGB NEWS December 26, 2011

Future Shock

After a shaky 2010 and a more encouraging 2011, the gaming industry is hoping the rebound will come in 2012. But that was the hope for 2011. GGB News writers recap the year and look forward to next in an exclusive peek into the jurisdictions and industry segments that will make the news—either good or bad—in 2012.    
 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: DOJ Says Online Poker is Legal

In a ruling concerning the sales of lottery tickets online, the U.S. Justice Department says the 1961 Wire Act only applies to sports betting, leaving online poker—and most likely online gaming—in the clear. The American Gaming Association has urged Congress to act quickly now that this question has been clarified.

Fiji Awards Only Gaming License

The island nation of Fiji has awarded the sole casino gaming license to U.S.-based One Hundred Sands, Ltd. The company will develop a $290 million casino resort and convention center, together with Native American partners Snoqualmie Tribe and Seventh Generation LLC. Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama said it was the company’s tribal background that helped to make the decision, but the tribe involved is confused.

 
  Testing In Massachusetts?

The shape of gaming in Massachusetts will largely be shaped by the will and reputation of newly appointed Chairman of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, Stephen Crosby. The new “czar” and his four fellow commissioners, yet to be named, will have nearly unlimited power in determining where and even if the three casinos authorized by the law will be built.

No Irish Casino, No Hotel

The proposed €460 million Tipperary Venue project in Ireland may ultimately never be much more than a racetrack. Without a casino, the developer says, there will be no 500-room hotel.

   
 Philippines Levels Playing Field

The Philippines Amusement and Gaming Corp. and Chairman Cristino L. “Bong” Naguiat (l.) has agreed to hire an independent consulting firm to assure that all the regulations and stipulations that the developers agreed to are adhered to during the construction process for the Entertainment City being built in Manila.

   
Fertitta Buys Morton’s, Adds to Restaurant Portfolio

Landry’s Inc., one of the country’s strongest restaurant companies, has recently purchased Morton’s Restaurant Inc. for $117 million. Tilman Fertitta, the billionaire CEO of Landry’s, which owns Golden Nugget casinos in Nevada and Atlantic City, will update the décor and menu and expand the Morton’s steakhouse brand in China. Morton’s is another high-end eatery in a portfolio that includes the Rainforest Café, McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood, Bubba Gump Shrimp and Vic & Anthony’s.   

 
Nevada OKs Online Gaming Rules

The Nevada Gaming Commission and Chairman Peter Bernhard last week approved the rules and regulations drawn up by the state’s Gaming Control Board that will oversee the legalization of online poker or online gaming in the near future.    

Echo Hawk OKs, Rejects Applications

Larry Echo Hawk, assistant secretary of Indian Affairs, recently ruled on two applications for tribal gaming. He approved the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community’s request to move its gaming facility in Michigan, and sent back the application of the Cayuga Nation of New York to place land in trust for gaming purposes.  

Game On

The first Pro League for video game players kicked off at Caesars Atlantic City recent, an event that combines casino games and video gamers. Thousands of gamers from all over the world attended the event .

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Goodbye and Good Riddance

Gaming stocks had a miserable year in 2011, with only three stocks showing an increase for the year. Why did that happen? And what does it mean for 2012? Depends on your strategies. 

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Salim Adatia, CEO of TST, a GLI Company

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Salim Adatia, the CEO of TST, a GLI Company on why the testing of online gaming technology is going to play a crucial role in the legalization of the new industry.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 49 • December 19, 2011

GGB NEWS December 19, 2011

Slow and Steady and Clean

Governor Deval Patrick’s decision to name Stephen P. Crosby (above, with Patrick), a man who has worked with both Democratic and Republican administrations in Massachusetts, to head the state’s gaming commission, is meeting with almost universal praise. Crosby promises dedication, deliberations and integrity.   
 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Wider Implications

The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear the case of an Indian gaming tribe in Michigan that could have national repercussions. The Gun Lake Band opened a very successful casino earlier this year despite a challenge to its legality. Should the lawsuit succeed, only Class II gaming could be used.

Initiative Would Expand Arizona Gaming

A group called Arizonans for Fair Gaming has filed an initiative to let voters decide if they want privately owned casinos and racetracks in the state. Stating tribes have an unfair monopoly now, the group would need 173,000 signatures before July 5 to put the issue before voters in November. Existing Indian casinos, like Casino Arizona and Talking Stick Resort in Mesa would be threatened.

 
Future’s Dicey for Florida Mega-Resorts

Some observers of the Florida gaming situation say the destination resort bill now before the legislature has little chance of being approved. And the most lucrative potential location—Miami Beach—had said “Thanks, but no thanks.” Finally, MGM is one other party recently heard from as Chairman Jim Murren visits the state.

New Atlantic City Casino to Implement Limited Employment Policy

Atlantic City’s Revel casino has imposed of term limit of four to six years for some of its front of the house positions, including games dealers, valets, bartenders, front desk agents and cocktail servers. The policy, which is unprecedented in the gaming industry’s hiring practices, has drawn criticism from a local union already not happy with Revel and its president.

   
SJM Expects Land Grant in ‘12

SJM Holdings CEO Ambrose So stated last week that the company received a letter from the Macau government indicating that SJM would be granted its land concession in the Cotai area sometime in 2012.

   
Australia’s Burswood Now Crown Perth

James Packer liked the Burswood casino in Perth when he pushed his company to buy it seven years ago. After the current AUS$750 million upgrade and name change, he is ready to like it even more.   

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Bo Bernhard, Executive Director, International Gaming Institute, University of Nevada Las Vegas, Harrah’s Hotel College

This week the Global Gaming Business Podcast features a discussion with Bo Bernhard, who has recently been named the executive director at the International Gaming Institute inside the University of Nevada Las Vegas’ Harrah’s Hotel College about where the IGI is and where it’s going.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 48 • December 12, 2011

GGB NEWS December 12, 2011

Sheldon’s Discomfort

Las Vegas Sands Chairman and CEO Sheldon Adelson has decided that he is personally opposed to internet gambling, although he stresses he was not speaking specifically for his company. In an exclusive interview with Adelson conducted in November, he told Global Gaming Business the reasons why he can’t support or help promote online gaming.   
 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: IGT on Cloud 9

International Game Technology has announced its “Cloud solution,” which will allow seamless movement of IGT game and system content among different media. It will reduce the need for hardware and software within the casinos and can be accessed via the internet.

DOJ Prosecutions Proceed

A hearing held in New York recently seemed to deflate efforts by two defendants named in the “Black Friday” indictments of PokerStars, Full Tilt Poker and Absolute Poker attempting to dismiss the charges on technical grounds. And in Boston, the first convictions using the UIGEA law were passed down.

 
Giant Step for New York Gaming?

Governor Andrew Cuomo makes good on his promise to pursue commercial gaming in the state. The governor says it’s all about jobs. It’s also about plugging a $350 million budget hole.

Living Large in London

The first of the “large” casinos allowed in the U.K. by the 2005 Gambling Act has opened to crowds four times larger than anticipated. No matter that the casino is limited to 150 slots: media have already dusted off the old “supercasino” moniker in their reports on the new venue.

   
Obama Establishes Tribal Consultation Policy

A new tribal consultation policy announced by Secretary Ken Salazar for the Department of the Interior will allow American Indian and Alaska Native tribes to offer more voice in federal decisions affecting Indian Country. The policy was developed as result of tribal input in meetings in seven cities with more than 300 tribal leaders.

   
Bay State Governor Begins Search for Gaming Commission Members

Top Massachusetts officials have begun the process of picking members for the all-important gaming commission, and a new major player, Steve Wynn, has entered the casino lists with a potential deal with New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft.   

Parties At Odds Over Expansion In Washington

Democrats want to raise taxes, Republicans want to expand gambling to non-tribal casinos to help plug Washington State's $2 billion budget deficit. The state's 28 tribes are not thrilled about that idea, and have not answered a request by Governor Chris Gregoire to help solve the crisis.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 47 • December 5, 2011

GGB NEWS December 5, 2011

Down On Dania

Boyd Gaming has called off its plan to sell Florida’s Dania Jai-Alai racino after the investor group was unable to close the sale. Analysts believe the consideration of integrated resorts in South Florida prevented the funding of the project.  
 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Twice Is Nice

It has been a busy year for Melco Crown Entertainment Limited and Co-Chairman Lawrence Ho. The company that will complete the Macau Studio City project is set to begin trading on the Hong Kong stock exchange alongside its NASDAQ listing. Meanwhile, Melco Crown’s two biggest shareholders have converted their initial loans into more equity.

Kentucky: Try, Try Again

Newly re-elected Governor Steve Beshear will once again try to get casino gaming legalized in his state, citing the competition from all the surrounding states and the need to protect the state’s coveted horse industry.

China Opens the Spigot

After an October record, gross gaming revenue in Macau increased again, but at the slowest pace for the entire year. Meanwhile, the Chinese government cut the reserve ratio, a move that will loosen credit and benefit the SAR casinos. And the Macau government clarifies its growth strategies for gaming.

  
Nevada Accepting Online Applications

The Nevada Gaming Control Board has begun accepting applications to operate and/or supply the online poker market. Five companies have submitted applications, which will be considered after the board issues its regulations next month.

Kerzner Turns Over Atlantis Bahamas

Kerzner International will relinquish control over the Atlantis in the Bahamas to reduce debt. The deal, which gives Kerzner’s flagship island resort to Brookfield Asset Management of Toronto, includes forgiveness of $175 million in debt.

 
Fading Frank

Barney Frank, the Democrat Congressman from Massachusetts, announced his retirement from the House last week. What will it mean to online gaming, which has counted on Frank to be its champion in Congress.

Bernhard To Lead UNLV International Gaming Institute

Internationally recognized gaming researcher Bo Bernhard has been named executive director of the International Gaming Institute at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas Harrah Hotel College. He has lectured on six continents and delivered more than 200 keynote addresses to international regulatory, government and policy leaders.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Rick Santoro, Managing Member, Interbrief.Org LLC

This week the Global Gaming Business Podcast features a discussion with Rick Santoro, the managing member of Interbrief.Org LLC. A former security director for Steve Wynn and Donald Trump Santoro discusses his new consulting company and the need for vigilance in the gaming industry.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 46 • November 28, 2011

GGB NEWS November 28, 2011

Online Downside in D.C.

After two Congressional hearings on internet gambling cast doubts about legalization of the activity, the failure of the “super-committee” seemed to put the final nail the coffin for online gaming in 2011. The result could be the revival of interest in state-by-state legalization, a move now considered more acceptable to the land-based gaming industry. 
 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Reaching the Finish Line

Although “gentlemen start your engines,” is used to signal the beginning of a NASCAR race, the term could easily be applied to gaming developers in Massachusetts, where a bill signed by Governor Deval Patrick opens the gates for a period of extreme bidding to site three casinos and one slots parlor.

'Sweetheart Deal' in Florida?

Critics of the proposed mega-casino resort bill say the 10 percent tax rate in the Bogdanoff-Fresen bill amounts to a giveaway. Casino developers call it an incentive.

Macau Government Predicts Decline in Gaming Revenue

In his annual report to the legislature, Secretary for the Economy and Finance Francis Tam Pak Yuen predicted that gaming revenue—and its accompanying tax revenue—would decline next year. Investors should not be concerned, however, since the Macau government is notoriously conservative in its revenue predictions.

  
Burns Leaves Bally for Leadership Post at TCSJohnHuxley

TCSJohnHuxley announced that David Heap will resign his post as group CEO effective March 1, to take on a role as adviser to the Knutsson companies. In his place, Cath Burns, most recently VP of Asian Pacific for Bally Technologies, will become global CEO.

Control Board Chief Seen as Major Barrier to Expanded Illinois Gaming

The governor of Illinois, Pat Quinn, and Aaron Jaffe, an ex-judge, 81-years-old, that he has reappointed chairman of the Illinois Gaming Board, are together seen as holding the bridge against expanded gaming in the state.

 
Singapore to IRs: Stop Targeting Locals

The government of Singapore has enacted tough new regulations on advertising and promoting casino gaming to its residents. More than just window dressing, the new rules extend into a number of areas previously untouched, such as merchandising, and greatly expand the definition of a local.

Cherokee, Perdue Renegotiating Compact

The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, operators of Harrah's Cherokee Casino in North Carolina, and Governor Bev Perdue are close to negotiating a new compact that will satisfy both sides. The tribe wants table games and exclusive gaming rights; the state wants up to 8.5 percent of gross revenues.

New Executive Director Named at NIGA

The departure of the longtime executive director of the National Indian Gaming Association, Mark Van Norman, has led to the elevation of former legal counsel Jason Giles to take the position.  

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: John Palmieri, Executive Director, New Jersey Casino Reinvestment Development Authority

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with John Palmieri, the new executive director of New Jersey’s Casino Reinvestment Development Authority on his role with the powerful agency, which will operate Atlantic City tourism district and all the public agencies that operate within the district.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 45 • November 21, 2011

GGB NEWS November 21, 2011

Massachusetts Miracle

After years of debate and consideration, a gaming expansion bill that would authorize three casino resorts and one slot parlor in Massachusetts is heading to Governor Deval Patrick’s desk. Now the race begins to see who can land the licenses.
 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Truth or Dare?

As Florida ponders a big dive into big gaming, pundits ask if the Sunshine State—home to seven Seminole casinos and a number of parimutuels—can handle the upgrade. But some of the revenue estimates for the market vary so much, it’s hard to tell what is reality, and Miami Mayor Tomas Regalado is reconsidering his early support of the Genting plan.

Congress Hears Online Story

Two hearings in Congress last week presented contradictory information, further muddying the waters for lawmakers who are coming down to the wire to decide whether an online gaming bill will pass this year or wait until 2013 at the earliest. NIGA’s Ernie Stevens says tribes want to be included or they vow to stop any bill.

Caesars Dips Toe Into Public Pool

The world’s largest casino company, now privately held, announces plans for a $50 million IPO. The company cancelled plans last year for a $500 million IPO, so is the recent announcement just testing the waters?

  
Kyrgyzstan Casino Ban On Track

The recent presidential elections in Kyrgyzstan did nothing to alter the anti-casino movement there. If anything, allegations brought forth during the campaign only served to heighten the image of casinos as places of illegal activity.

It’s A Deal

French billionaire Bernard Tapie finalized a deal with the Department of Justice to buy Full Tilt Poker, may return the deposits of its players and eventually to reopen one of online poker’s most successful sites.

 
Hard Rocking at The Jersey Shore

The New Jersey Casino Control Commission has officially approved Hard Rock International for one of the two “boutique casino” licenses in Atlantic City. According to Hard Rock CEO Jim Allen, he $465 million project expects to begin next summer and complete its first phase by 2014.

European Associations Welcome Parliament Report

The European Parliament recently adopted the report on online gaming prepared by Jurgen Creutzmann. The step paves the way for continued action on the subject at the European level. Oddly, associations representing both sides of the argument announced their pleasure with the adoption of the report.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Fueling the Problem

What happens when gas prices go up? Customers stay closer to home and don’t go as often to casinos, compounding the problems casinos face during this economic dive. 

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Don Marrandino, President, Eastern Division, Caesars Entertainment

This week the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Don Marrandino, the president of the eastern division for Caesars Entertainment. For 20 years in Las Vegas, Marrandino concentrated on creating new revenue. Now he’s returned home to do the same in Atlantic City.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 44 • November 14, 2011

GGB NEWS November 14, 2011

Sporting Chance?

There were few gaming issues on the ballot in this off-year election. The most interesting was a vote that would supposedly allow sports betting in New Jersey, but don’t expect to see Las Vegas-style sports books cropping up on the Boardwalk anytime soon. Also decided on Election Day last Tuesday were whether to allow additional casinos in Maine and several races that brought in new governors that would impact gaming jurisdictions.
 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Death in Illinois

The Illinois legislature may finish out its fall session without addressing the objections of Governor Pat Quinn to a gaming expansion bill passed in May. The most recent attempt to do so died in the House last week and efforts by its champion, Rep. Lou Lang, to revive it failed.

The Big Questions in Florida

As talks about destination casino resorts continue in Florida, opinions are forming and the players are gathering. Disney and the state Chamber of Commerce have come out against destination resorts in South Florida. But many other businesses say they’re neutral on the hot-button issue. Steve Wynn and MGM Resorts are interested in developing the resorts. But the Seminoles, the operators of the state’s only casino resorts in Tampa and Hollywood, are not happy campers.

Bermuda Considering Gaming Referendum

The island of Bermuda has debated the issue of gambling for years, installed in its top-flight hotels to attract more tourists. But politicians have never reached a consensus. Premier Paula Cox (l.) thinks voters might be able to break the deadlock.

  
Atlantic City Hilton Gets Another Chance

Colony Capital LLC, owners of the Atlantic City Hilton, have reached an agreement with the lenders to erase the debt of the casino, keeping it out of foreclosure. The deal would pump  $24.3 million into the property, though Colony will give up ownership of its two Mississippi properties. The deal needs to be approved by New Jersey’s Division of Gaming Enforcement, which is evaluating the company’s financial stability.

Casinos Austria Reorganizing International Goals

The management shakeup at Casinos Austria International earlier this year has been followed by a rethink on global strategy. The plan is to trade costly and underperforming projects in European neighbor countries for the potential of bigger gains at home and in Asia and Latin America. CEO Karl Stoss is leading the effort.

 
Poker is Gambling, Says DOJ

The argument that online poker was exempt under the UIGEA bill passed in 2006 is simply wrong, says the Department of Justice in a filing connected to the lawsuits against online poker sites Full Tilt, PokerStars and Absolute Poker. Poker, says the government, is a game of chance, not of skill.

Macau Consider Full Ban for Problem Gamblers

Although a self-exclusion program is in place in Macau, officials are now considering a mandatory exclusion for problem gamblers that would be more effective than the current system and help to treat the afflicted.

Tucson’s Casino del Sol Debuts New Hotel

Tucson’s Casino del Sol last week opened its new hotel, packed with non-gaming amenities, designed to launch the property into the upper echelon of resorts in the Tucson area.

SAGSE Success

Latin America’s largest and most important trade show was held last week in Buenos Aires. Thousands of attendees enjoyed the products on display and hundreds attended the pre-SAGSE conference sponsored by the Yogonet company.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Mark Birtha, President and Chief Development Officer at SOL Casinos

This week, a special edition of Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Mark Birtha, the president and chief development officer at SOL Casinos, just days before the official grand opening of the new hotel, meeting space, spa, pool and other amenities at Casino del Sol in Tucson, Arizona

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 43 • November 7, 2011

GGB NEWS November 7, 2011

Party Time!

MGM Mirage and Boyd Gaming enter a joint venture with Bwin.Party to work together on an online gaming site once it becomes legal in the U.S. MGM will own 25 percent of the business, while Boyd takes a 10 percent piece. Jim Ryan, co-CEO of Bwin.Party, says the companies have been working toward this agreement for 18 months.
 

FEATURES:
WEEKLY FEATURE: Hello Casino

All eyes are on Japan to step up as the next big integrated resort project destination in Asia. The presence of Caesars Entertainment CEO Gary Loveman at a recent meeting of a pro-casino Japanese Diet members association could be a sign things are getting more serious.

AGA Hall of Fame Inducts 23^rd Class

The most recent nominees to the American Gaming Association’s Hall of Fame were inducted last week in a ceremony at the Venetian in Las Vegas. Joining the list of HOF members are the Blue Man Group, represented by co-founder Philip Stanton, restaurateur Charlie Palmer, Las Vegas Sands Chairman Sheldon Adelson, University of Nevada Reno professor Dr. William Eadington.

Golden Month For Macau

The early October holiday, Golden Week, launches Macau into record territory once again. The SAR’s 33 casinos posted their highest revenues ever for the month. Analysts believe that economic issues in China are having no impact on the VIP business. The new Galaxy Macau led parent Galaxy Entertainment to a healthy gain in market share for the month.

  
Full Tilt Deal May Be Near

The head of French company owned by Bernard Tapie says a deal has been struck to take over Full Tilt Poker and to repay player deposits through the U.S. Department of Justice.

Bahamas Wary of Florida Casinos

Mega-casinos in the Sunshine State could prove disastrous to tourism in the Bahamas, warns a resort executive. At risk are Kerzner’s Atlantis and a new mega-resort under way, Baha Mar.

 
Debut of ‘Big A’ Gaming a Success

Resorts World at Aqueduct opened with a bang, drawing 65,000 people in its first weekend alone, creating lines around the building. The casino is expected to generate $800 million in revenues in 2012.

Obama Administration Opposes Supreme Court Ruling

Deputy Interior Secretary David Hayes  says the Obama administration wants to do everything it can to overturn the U.S. Supreme Court’s Carcieri v. Salazar ruling that severely hampers some Indian tribes, a high level Interior Department official said last week.

Study: 3 Georgia Casinos Could Generate $1Billion

The Georgia Lottery Commission recently commissioned a study that showed three casinos could bring in about $1 billion in annual revenues to the state, beginning in 2014. A total of 10,000 video lottery terminals would be located in casinos at metro Atlanta, Savannah and Jekyll Island. Governor Nathan Deal has his concerns, however.

Big Turnaround?

You might not know it from the doom-and-gloom headlines, but there is light at the end of the tunnel for the gaming industry. Increasing gaming revenues coupled with higher room rates and upgraded growth prospects look good for gaming worldwide.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Sue Schneider and Mark Balestra

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with , the owner of eGaming Brokerage and Mark Balestra, the managing director at BolaVerde Media Group, about their insights on possible legalization of online gaming in the U.S.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 42 • October 31, 2011

GGB NEWS October 31, 2011

COVER STORY:

Pitched Battles in Florida

With a “destination resort” bill in the pipeline, which would permit three casino resorts, the real showdown is about to begin. Many businesses including Disney want to guard their turf; parimutuels, like Isle of Capri’s Pompano Park (l.), just want to survive. 
 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Going, Going….

A House hearing on Rep. Joe Barton’s online poker bill demonstrates there are still some serious questions about the legitimacy of online gaming, raised by Rep. Mary Bono Mack, and how it will impact the nation. While commercial casinos are rallying behind the issue, the nation’s Native American tribes are divided and many would rather see the issue delayed indefinitely.

 
New York’s Aqueduct Casino Opens

The first casino in New York City opened last week when Genting’s Resorts World at Aqueduct debuted with more than 2,000 slot machines. The racino will feature a total of 5,000 machines when phase two opens by the end of the year. 
 

Macau’s announced controls on table game growth following the removal of the hard cap that will expire in 2013 may be more flexible than originally thought. A Macau newspaper says the 10-year total could be parceled out early in that decade.

NIGA Speakers Call for Carcieri fix

A Carcieri “fix” that would get rid of a problem that is stuck in the throat of the Department of the Interior like a chicken bone is also a number one priority among Indian leaders, according to Cedric Cromwell, the chairman of the landless Mashpee Wampanoag tribe of Massachusetts, and other speakers at a recent gathering of leaders from gaming tribes.

Illinois Senators Try Another Expanded Gambling Bill

State senators are floating a scaled-down expanded gambling bill that keeps some provisions of the bill passed by the legislature in May, like allowing five new casinos, including one in Chicago, but eliminates others, such as slots at racetracks. Governor Pat Quinn said the new version does not fit his framework of what would be acceptable.

Jamaica Demands Rooms Before Gaming

Jamaica is moving ahead with its plans to create a casino resort industry. However, regulations stipulating 1,000 guest-ready hotel rooms before gaming can commence could give some investors pause.

Union Label

Proposed settlement in Detroit is short-circuited when workers at MGM Detroit reject contract after the other two casinos approve it. And in Atlantic City, labor problems may be avoided as Caesars Entertainment reaches an agreement with Local 54, the Atlantic City branch of UNITE HERE, the culinary and hotel union, and its leader, Bob McDevitt.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Money From Manufacturers

Slot makers have been buffeted and shaken during the economic downturn. Casinos were not buying and slots machines were not being replaced. But with new technology and new jurisdictions, things have changed. 

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: DoubleDown Interactive President Glenn Walcott

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Glenn Walcott, the president of DoubleDown Interactive, the leading play-for-free casino site feature on Facebook.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 41 • October 24, 2011

GGB NEWS October 24, 2011

MGM On the Bayou

MGM Resorts last week reached an agreement with Dan Lee’s Creative Casinos to become a part owner and operator of the $400 million Mojito Pointe casino resort (rendering at l.) in Lake Charles, Louisiana. It will be MGM ‘s first resort in Louisiana and should complement the company’s Beau Rivage in Biloxi. Lee obtained Louisiana’s last gaming license and was former head of Pinnacle Entertainment, which owns the neighboring L’Auberge Casino Resort. 
 

FEATURES:

 
WEEKLY FEATURE: The Mighty Quinn

Illinois Governor Pat Quinn has threatened to veto the gaming expansion bill approved in May by the legislature unless they downsize it and make the changes he suggests. But most observers believe that all parts of the bill—particularly slots at racetracks—are important or it will fail in the legislature.

 
U.K. Casinos Request Regulation Review

The U.K. casino industry has been suffering for four years under the perceived and real differences created by the 2005 Gambling Act. A recent hearing before a parliamentary committee may have helped to crystallize the problem in the minds of both legislators and operators. Less than 1 percent of the nearly quarter million slot machines in the U.K. are in casinos.
 

  
Ohio Moves to Fast-Track Racinos

Ohio’s Lottery Commission is moving at top speed to make it possible for the state’s seven racetracks to open racinos as soon as possible, possibly within a year. Still to be decided is possible relocation of some of the tracks, like Penn National’s Beulah Park, near Columbus.

New York’s Resorts World Opens This Week

New York, New York will see its first legal gaming hall starting Friday, October 28. Resorts World at Aqueduct will open with about 2,500 slot machines, and will have 5,000 by January.

Bahamas Casino Proposals Ready

The tourism minister of the Bahamas, Vincent Vanderpool-Wallace, is ready to present the cabinet with detailed proposals for liberalizing the casino gaming industry. Now all he needs is for the cabinet to find the time to address them.


Feinstein Opposes California Tribal Casino

Diane Feinstein, a powerful U.S. senator representing California, is trying to stop two tribes from being allowed to develop off-reservation casinos.

The Over/Under on Sports Wagering in New Jersey

A referendum in being held in New Jersey in November will ask voters if they would like to legalize sports wagering in the state. Although most collegiate sports organizations and professional sports leagues oppose sports betting, most Americans enjoy the activity, even if it means placing an illegal bet. So what will happen in New Jersey.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: The Art of the Call

Investor quarterly reports and the conference calls that accompany them are usually boring and mundane. But there are several “personalities” who make it worthwhile to listen in and learn.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Randy Fine, Managing Director, Fine Point Group

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Randy Fine, the managing director of the Fine Point Group, conducted at G2E where he delivered the closing keynote presentation.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 40 • October 17, 2011

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 39 • October 3, 2011

GGB NEWS October 3, 2011

Gaming Rising in Japan

The advent of a new administration in Japan gives hope that gaming could become a means of economic redevelopment in the nation that has been slammed by earthquakes, tsunami, typhoons and the economy in recent years. New Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda will be asked to evaluate a plan that would introduce Singapore-style integrated resorts in several regions of Japan. 
 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Okada Sets Sights on Manila

The Philippines is in for renewed attention now that Japanese firm Universal Entertainment is moving forward with plans for two casinos and three hotels in Manila. Heavyweight UE head Kazuo Okada, who serves on the Wynn Resorts board, plans to make casinos the main business of the traditional machine manufacturer.

 
Full Tilt Fallout

After meetings in London last week, the Alderney Gaming Commission revoked the license of Full Tilt Poker. The next day, a shady French businessman made a bid to buy the company. The recent addendum to the April indictment that accuses Full Tilt of conducting a “Ponzi” scheme to defraud its players has rippled across the poker industry and has given U.S. casinos more ammunition to insist that online poker be legalized and regulated. 
 

  
Four IRs Recommended for Taiwan

The integrated resort question in Taiwan has taken another step towards realization. The number of properties recommended has doubled from the original two, with an emphasis on IRs having an entertainment element without specifying that element be a theme park.

Monarch Buys Riviera Black Hawk

Monarch Casino and Resort Inc. has bought the Rivera casino in Black Hawk, Colorado. The owners of Reno’s Atlantis Casino Hotel picked up the casino from Riviera Holdings, which recently emerged from bankruptcy.

California Tribes Mull How to React to Supreme Court Ruling

The recent Supreme Court ruling that slapped down California’s attempts to coerce gaming tribes into paying large amounts of gaming profits into the state’s general fund to have ramifications for the state’s tribal gaming compacts negotiated by former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Round 2 (and 3) in Maryland

Caesars Entertainment gets the Baltimore casino license, while two applicants remain for the license to build a casino at Rocky Gap state park in western Maryland. Lakes Entertainment President Lyle Berman wants the Rocky Gap license.

Bally Announces Major Contracts 

Foxwoods Resort Casino in Connecticut and the NagaWorld Casino in Cambodia have signed contracts to implement system and game solutions by Bally Technologies, and the company signed an enterprise-wide deal with the BC Lottery.

Finis Stanley Ho

Stanley Ho, the founder and dominant figure in Macau gaming for decades, sells his remain stake in the company he started, SJM, to his fourth wife, Angela Leong.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: The Inside Story

How can you tell whether executives at gaming organizations have faith in the strategies and operations they implement at their companies? Check out who’s buying shares and you might get a very good hint.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Joel Bergman, Chairman and Founder, Bergman Walls Architects

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Joel Bergman, the chairman and founder of Bergman Walls Architects, and a participant in many of the grandest casino designs in Las Vegas and beyond.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 38 • September 26, 2011

GGB NEWS September 26, 2011

Full Tilt Phonies

The U.S. Department of Justice accuses the disgraced online poker site of operating a Ponzi scheme, using deposits collected from player to enrich the board of directors, including poker superstar Howard Lederer (above). The accusation causes the American Gaming Association to renew its push for a legalized poker industry, highlighted by an effective regulatory process that will prevent such scams from occurring.
 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE:   Ireland Set to Modernize Laws

Ireland is finally getting down to the job of revising its antiquated and incomplete gaming legislation. The good news is that clarity is the objective for all forms of gaming, including online and land-based casinos. Not so good is that the large-scale casino resort concept, such as the one proposed for Tipperary, has been rejected.

 
  Tam Outlines Table Game Growth, Cotai Development

In 2013, when the current freeze on table games expires, the Macau government will limit growth of 3 percent annually. This level may not be enough to satisfy a new casino each year, but SJM’s Angela Leong says it is reasonable.

Hopefuls Lining Up For Florida Casinos

Florida Senate President Mike Haridopolos recently changed the membership of a key Senate committee to give casino resort legislation a chance to potentially add $1 billion - $2 billion a year to state revenues. In the meantime developers like Genting Malaysia are staking huge claims and keeping their fingers crossed.

  
New York Leaders Line Up for Casinos

Even legislators who oppose gambling on religious grounds say it would be better to keep gaming revenues inside New York state. But the question is where it will be located, and how will the tribes respond, including Oneida Chairman Ray Halbritter.

 Caesars Plans Non-Gaming Chinese Hotel

Located on Hainan Island—“China’s Hawaii”—the $470 million hotel will bring gaming’s most famous brand to the world’s most dynamic market—but without the casino.

Maryland Slot Licenses Get Prominent Bids

Caesars, Rock Gaming and Frank Stronach bid for Baltimore slot license, along with a second company, while real estate developer and prominent Maryland political figure Nathan Landow says his company is planning to bid on the slot license at Rocky Gap Lodge and Golf Resort, along with two other companies.

Eadington Named to Gaming Hall of Fame; Isaacs Named AGA director

Professor William Eadington of the University of Nevada-Reno’s gaming institute has been named to the American Gaming Association’s Gaming Hall of Fame. And Shuffle Master CEO Gavin Isaacs is named to the AGA board.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Gloom & Doom

The disparity between the sensational headlines predicting economic disaster and actual business performance, which is generally improving, should make investors nervous. So what’s going on?

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Tracie Stevens, Chairwoman, National Indian Gaming Commission

This week the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an exclusive interview with the three members of the National Indian Gaming Commission, Chairwoman Tracie Stevens, Vice Chair Stephanie Cochran and commissioner Dan Little at the NIGC offices in Washington D.C.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 37 • September 19, 2011

GGB NEWS September 19, 2011

The End in Ecuador

Ecuador is closing down all gaming, including 32 casinos in 5-star hotels. A decree from President Rafael Correa (l.) last week ordered the immediate stop of all gaming and the closure of the casinos and legal bingo halls in six months. The move followed a May referendum to end all gaming in the country.
 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: House Fire in Massachusetts

The Massachusetts House moved quickly to pass a gaming bill that authorizes three casinos and one slots parlor. More than 150 amendments fell by the wayside. House Speaker Robert DeLeo guided the bill to an overwhelming approval. Now the Senate will take up the bill.

 
 Going Genting

The Malaysian casino company, which plans a $3 billion resort in Miami, could be good to go as early as spring 2012. But the Las Vegas Sands investment is iffy, as discussions about integrated resorts continue in Florida.

E.U. Committee Addresses Online Gambling

The European Union is ready to take a step closer to figuring out what to do about online gaming. Or not. Discussions at committee level are set to start September 19, but members of that committee will have 271 amendments to address—plus the green paper that spurred those amendments.

  
Delaware Considers Slashing Gaming Tax

State finance officials in Delaware are ready to hold talks with owners of the three racinos on cutting the revenue tax, but any deal faces an uncertain future with lawmakers. Delaware House Majority Leader Pete Schwartzkopf is having none of it, however.

 Wynn: Devil in the Details

While Wynn Resorts announced last week that it had been granted permission by the Macau government to proceed with development of its latest resort in the Cotai region of the SAR, an official says “not so fast.” Wynn’s new unnamed resort is just east of the City of Dreams

New York Tribes Fight Gaming Expansion

What will be the impact on existing and planned tribal casinos if New York legalizes commercial casinos? Tribes want the state out of the gaming industry and to keep its legal word. The Senecas (l.) held a rally to protest the plan.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Growing Old

How will the gaming industry create growth going forward? Can we count on traditional methods like gaming expansion or the replacement slot market? Or will it be something new?

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Bob Miodunski, President, American Gaming Systems, and Steve Walthur, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Aruze Gaming

This week the Global Gaming Business Podcast continues a series of interviews leading up to October’s G2E. In this installment, GGB Editor Frank Legato interviews two executives from up-and-coming slot manufacturers, Bob Miodunski (l.), the president of American Gaming Systems, and Steve Walthur, the vice president of sales and marketing for Aruze Gaming.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 36 • September 12, 2011

GGB NEWS September 12, 2011

Melco to Manila?

Recent media speculation that Macau casino resort operator Melco Crown might be getting involved in the Philippines PAGCOR City project has brought nothing but silence on the matter from Melco Crown and its primary owners. When the project was first announced four years ago, Melco co-CEO Jamie Packer (above) decided not to participate. At least one analyst isn’t buying the news at all.
 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Split Decision

The Obama administration’s new, less restrictive attitude towards off-reservation applications to put land into federal trust was put into action last week, and demonstrated that it is truly a case-by-case philosophy. Two applications, including one in New Mexico and one in California, were rejected, while two others in California were approved, according to BIA Director Larry Echo Hawk.

 
Sources: Wynn Gets Cotai OK

The contest for the next approval to build the latest casino resort in Macau is over, sources tell GGB News. Wynn Resorts will be permitted to break ground and commence construction in the Cotai region, leaving MGM Resorts, SJM and Melco Crown to wait until the next round. The project will be the company’s third resort, following Encore Macau.

Mexican Tax Agency Shuts Six Casinos

Mexico appears to be making an effort to identify and crack down on illegal or non-compliant gaming venues. The question is whether the seizure of 3,500 illegal machines one day after the deadly Monterrey casino attack is the start of a new, tougher policy or just something for the media. President Felipe Calderón has ordered a crackdown on illegal gambling.

  
Senecas Look at Rochester Casino

The New York tribe hasn’t paid casino revenues to the state in 18 months, claiming Albany reneged on its compact. Even so, the tribe is contemplating a fourth casino. Seneca President Robert Odawi Porter says a tribal-owned Rochester casino would be good for everyone.

Kyl Key

Arizona Republican Senator Jon Kyl will likely be the most important member of Congress when it comes to supporting efforts to legalize online poker. But where does he stand? Depends on who and when you ask.

New York Casino Hearings Begin

The state Committee on Racing, Gaming and Wagering hosted the first in a series of meetings last week on the benefits and pitfalls of full-scale casinos in the state. Governor Andrew Cuomo has indicated he supports the expansion of commercial casinos.

 
Fontainebleau Developers vs. Investors

The hedge funds, which bought part of the unfinished resort’s distressed debt, now say the developers defrauded them by misrepresenting the cost of the project and hiding debt.

Ohio’s Horseshoe Casino Begins Hiring

Ohio’s Horseshoe Casino Cleveland, under construction in the Higbee building, has begun to hire up to 500 dealers, about a third of its workforce, in anticipation of a spring opening.

Great Canadian’s McLeod Dies

Ross McLeod, chairman and CEO of Great Canadian Gaming, died suddenly last week at 59. He has been replaced on an interim basis by president Rod Baker.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Bob Miodunski, President, American Gaming Systems, and Steve Walthur, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Aruze Gaming

This week the Global Gaming Business Podcast continues a series of interviews leading up to October’s G2E. In this installment, GGB Editor Frank Legato interviews two executives from up-and-coming slot manufacturers, Bob Miodunski (l.), the president of American Gaming Systems, and Steve Walthur, the vice president of sales and marketing for Aruze Gaming.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 35 • September 5, 2011

GGB NEWS September 5, 2011

Mexican Massacre

A deadly fire in a Monterey casino kills 52 people. Several arrests are made in an attempt to “scare” the casino owners. Then corruption probes have been launched that have closed more than half a dozen Mexican casinos from coast to coast. What will this mean for Mexican gaming?
 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Casino Comeback

Two “new” casinos open last week and a major expansion is announced for a third. While it may not signal a rebound for a slumping gaming industry, the new Four Winds Hartford Casino in Michigan, the reopening of the completely revamped Plaza Casino Hotel in Downtown Las Vegas (above) and a huge addition to the Seminole tribe’s Hard Rock Tampa could demonstrate that better times are coming.

 
Silver: No Casinos in NYC

New York’s Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver says gaming should expand in the state, but only outside the five boroughs of New York City.

Congress Could Revisit IGRA

First approved in 1988, the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act could be amended if some powerful members of Congress have their way. Indian Country will resist but the Carcieri “fix” may require it. Senator John McCain wants to put an end to “reservation shopping.”

 
Bay State Lawmakers Begin Casino Debate

This year, the third time that lawmakers in Massachusetts have tried to pass and get Governor Deval Patrick to sign, a gaming expansion bill, may be the year that all the pieces come together, political observers predict.

Full Tilt’s Fault?

The most comprehensive explanation why Full Tilt Poker has been unable to repay the deposits of its players since the April 15 Black Friday indictments was released last week. Full Tilt points fingers at everyone else.

Sioux Tribe Wants Casino

The one remaining tribe in South Dakota that doesn’t have a casino wants to change that. Governor Dennis Daugaard will decided if a 20-year-old compact is still in force.

 
More Competitors for Austrian Licenses

The battle for Austria’s casino licenses is attracting some big regional players. From neighboring Switzerland, the winner of the Zurich license, Swiss Casinos, has declared interest, and an Austrian-German collaboration between supplier-operator Gauselmann and car parts king Frank Stronach, supposedly one of the richest people in Austria is taking the field.

Melco Confident Casino Will Come

Melco’s acquisition of the majority stake in the Studio City Macao project last June was thrown into disarray by a government official who claimed none of the officially submitted plans had ever included a casino. Melco Co-Chairman Lawrence Ho is confident that situation will be resolved.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Fresh Start

Back from holiday, ready to tackle the real world, gaming stocks are exhibiting the same uncertainty that surrounds the overall economy. What do you do?

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Richard Haddrill, Chairman and CEO, Bally Technologies

This week the Global Gaming Business Podcast features the first of a series of interviews leading up to October’s G2E, with Dick Haddrill, the chairman and CEO of Bally Technologies on what his company is going to be exhibiting at the big trade show.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 34 • August 29, 2011

GGB NEWS August 29, 2011

Game On In Massachusetts

Bay State lawmakers have taken the covers off a bill that would authorize three regional casino resorts and one slots parlor. An agreement between Governor Deval Patrick, House Speaker Robert DeLeo and Senate President Theresa Murray (above) should finally result in a Massachusetts gaming industry.

 FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Wait ‘Til Next Year

Proponents of online gaming in California will have to wait until next year to see the legislature take up a bill that would legalize online poker in the Golden State, after Senate leader Darrell Steinberg put it to rest. Tribes still have disagreements and the extra time could give them time to reach a middle ground.

Nevada Sets Online Poker Regs

Nevada makes a case to be considered as the regulator of choice should the U.S. legalize internet poker by issuing a set of regulations under which a legal poker framework would operate. Mark Lipparelli, chairman of the Gaming Control Board, says Nevada is he logical jurisdiction to regulate i-gaming.

Hurricane Shuts Atlantic City Casinos

The approach of Hurricane Irene forced the 11 Atlantic City casinos to close on the last non-holiday weekend of summer. Re-opening is unclear and dependent upon the severity of the storm.

Quinn, Emanuel Spar Over Casino

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Illinois Governor Pat Quinn are politely feuding over whether Quinn should sign a bill that would increase slot machines in the state by a large percentage. Former Governor Jim Edgar says Quinn is concerned about the video slots bill he approved two years ago.

Lakes Will Help Redevelop Florida Racino

Lakes Entertainment, Inc. has formed a joint venture with Dania Entertainment Center, LLC to manage and redevelop the existing Dania Jai Alai fronton in Dania Beach, Florida. The new racino will include including 1,800 slots in a 60,000 square foot casino, a cabana club and a 500-room hotel.

Sioux Tribe Wants Casino

The one remaining tribe in South Dakota that doesn’t have a casino wants to change that. Governor Dennis Daugaard will decided if a 20-year-old compact is still in force.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: A Healthy Dose of Reality

With the stock market going crazy the past several weeks, volatility breeds confusion. Let’s take a look at what is really happening so we can make rational, sensible decisions.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Entertainer and G2E Keynote Speaker Penn Jillette

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with magician, entertainer and philosopher Penn Jillette on what he plans to tell the audience at G2E in October where he will be a keynote speaker.  

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 33 • August 22, 2011

GGB NEWS August 22, 2011

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 32 • August 15, 2011

GGB NEWS August 15, 2011

If We Can Make It There…

With a few public comments, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo (above) opens the floodgates—of enthusiasm, of criticism, of multi-million-dollar revenue projections. But the change won’t be easy or quick and will require a constitutional amendment that may be difficult to pass. And what about neighboring Massachusetts, also eyeing casinos?

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Plethora of Projects

Vietnam continues to be the one of the more popular prospects for casino resort development. If investors and the government can continue to see eye-to-eye, the country could end up with a thriving industry for both tourists and locals. A new project is slated for the tropical island of Phu Quoc, part of Kiên Giang province.

Japan to OK Citizens Gambling

In another step towards the legalization of casino gambling in Japan, a committee drawing up a possible gaming bill approved some sort of entry fee to allow Japanese citizens to gamble, a requisite for the participation of major gaming companies.

 
Sands Announces Cotai Brands

In addition to the Sheraton brand on sites 5 and 6 on the Cotai Strip, Las Vegas Sands reveals two more well-known hotel brands that will become part of what will now be called “Sands Cotai Central.”

 
Greece Passes Online Gaming Law

Greece has done an about-face on certain aspects of its online gaming legislation that were in conflict with European Union law. The changes make it less likely that complaints will be successful, and online operator Betfair is encouraged. However, in the area of VLT legislation, there may still be some ground to be disputed.

G2E Asia Attendance Up

The fifth edition of G2E Asia in Macau reported a 25 percent increase in attendance and 119 exhibitors, a third of which were first-time participants.

Illinois Bill Almost Ready for Governor

The massive Illinois gaming expansion bill, which has been in limbo for several months, will be given to Governor Pat Quinn on September 7. Quinn says he should make a decision by October.

 
Perdue Considers Live Gaming At Cherokee

North Carolina Governor Beverly Perdue is negotiating with legislative leaders and the Eastern Band of Cherokee regarding allowing live table games like blackjack and poker at tribal-owned Harrah's Cherokee Casino. Currently, blackjack-like games are available on gaming machines.

Is Strip on the Upswing?

MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment (Caesars Palace at left) report encouraging numbers for the second quarter, and it seems to be continuing as June gaming revenues on the Strip were up 32 percent. But analysts say it’s too early for optimism, and both companies are carrying too much debt.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Courtney Muller, Senior Vice President, Reed Exhibitions

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Courtney Muller, the senior vice president with Reed Exhibitions, on the new dates and location for Global Gaming Expo, which will be held in the first week of October this year.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 31 • August 8, 2011

GGB NEWS August 8, 2011

Linq’d In

Caesars Entertainment moves forward with the center-Strip Las Vegas project that will create an entertainment district along with a massive 500-foot observation wheel that can carry almost 1,000 people at one time. The project is slated to cost $500 million.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Shuffle the Deck    

While another record month for gaming revenues in Macau isn’t breaking news, the new order of market share has shaken the industry to its core. Dramatic decreases by the former top-two placeholders have opened the door for increases from all the other companies, especially Galaxy Entertainment, which debuted Galaxy Macau in May, led by Francis Lui Yiu Tung, deputy chairman of the company.

Massachusetts Governor Open to Racino

Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick is willing to accept a single racino if it will mean that a gaming bill in order to get a gaming expansion bill passed that he can sign later this year.

 
McCain Bill Would Kill Off Reservation Casinos

Arizona Senators John McCain and Jon Kyl are leading an effort to make it almost impossible to put land far removed from an Indian reservation into federal trust. They object to the BIA permitting a land into trust situation in their home state.

 
Vegas Hooters Files for Chapter 11

Recession caused Sin City’s luxury hotels to cut their rates, taking a bite out of smaller properties. But Hooters has never done well in Vegas, say some analysts.

Nevada Sports Book War Initiated

It was only a matter of time before the two leading sports book operators in Nevada started a war. Cantor Gaming last week fired the first shot by filing suit against a former executive, Joe Asher, who ran Brandywine Bookmaking since 2007. Brandywine was recently purchased by Britain’s William Hill.

Tribes Get Real About Online Gaming

The previous opposition held by Native American tribes to online gaming is beginning to melt away as they are now starting to realize that the federal legalization of the activity could be imminent. Sheila Morago, the executive director of the Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association, says the tribes will be ready.

 
NIGC: Tribal Revenues Hold Steady in ‘10

Revenues for Indian gaming held steady in 2010 despite the recession, according to figures released by the National Indian Gaming Commission.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Linda Kassekert, Chairwoman, New Jersey Casino Control Commission

This week the Global Gaming Business Podcast features a discussion with Linda Kassekert, the chairwoman of the New Jersey Casino Control Commission, on the recent overhaul of the state regulatory process.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 30 • August 1, 2011

GGB NEWS August 1, 2011

Poker Power

FairPlayUSA, a Washington D.C.-based group whose advisory board includes former Homeland Security chief Tom Ridge, has recently been established to gather support for U.S. regulation on internet gaming. The coalition, founded and funded by major land-based casino companies, supports the establishment of a comprehensive online poker law, as well as strengthening the 2006 Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act to give law enforcement the tools to crackdown on illegal operators.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Showdown!    

Clash between Senator John McCain and Tracie Stevens, the chairwoman of the National Indian Gaming Commission, highlights a hearing before the Senate Indian Affairs Committee on regulatory changes proposed by the NIGC.

Philippines Legislators Seek PAGCOR Probes

The Philippines government is coming closer to an all-out investigation into the practices of former PAGCOR head Efraim Genuino. But a cheating scandal under the current PAGCOR administration has other legislators pointing fingers at President Benigno Aquino.

 
Keetoowah Casino Not On Indian Land

The chairwoman of the National Indian Gaming Commission, Tracie Stevens, recently ruled that the United Keetoowah Band Indian tribe’s casino is not on Indian land. The matter was sent back to Oklahoma officials to decide.

 
Potential Full Tilt Sale Excludes U.S. Players

Investors discussing a possible purchase of Full Tilt Poker include only U.K. and Irish assets, and reportedly have not touched on the shut down U.S. branch.

  Packer Selling Melco Stake

An Australian financial analyst speculating on Jamie Packer’s Crown Casinos expected effort to take over the new Tabcorp casino spinoff, Echo Entertainment Group, might sell his stake in Melco Crown to finance it.

Illinois Casino Bill in Limbo

The bill that would massively expand casino gaming in Illinois is in a legislative limbo, having not been given to the governor for his signature or veto, despite having been passed by both houses of the legislature.

 
Pansy: Now’s the Time for Taiwan

MGM China Co-Chairwoman Pansy Ho tells a Taiwanese newspaper that the time is right to invest in a Taiwan casino now that Mainland China has liberalized its travel policy to the Republic of China.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Mr. Mo Moves to IGT

IGT is regaining momentum as ship share decline slows and confidence returns to gaming’s largest slot manufacturer.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Las Vegas Sands President and COO Michael Leven

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Las Vegas Sands President and COO Michael Leven on the new hotel that recently opened in Bethlehem, as well as company plans in Florida and Spain.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 29 • July 25, 2011

GGB NEWS July 25, 2011

Des Plaines Debut

The Rivers Casino in Des Plaines, Illinois opened last week, but whether it will be the final casino to open in the state remains uncertain as Illinois Governor Pat Quinn continues to consider a massive gaming expansion law.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: All Together Now
   

A letter from Senators Jon Kyl and Harry Reid to U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder has asked the Justice Department to clarify its stance on internet gambling in the U.S., criticizing the timing of April “Black Friday” indictments and warning of the explosion of “intrastate” online gaming.

AGA Adds Adelson to Hall of Fame

The 2011 class of the American Gaming Association’s Gaming Hall of Fame includes Sheldon Adelson, the Blue Man Group and Charlie Palmer.

 
Genting Gets Vietnam Green Light

A $4 billion tourism development in the South Hoi An region of Quang Nam province of Vietnam was granted permission to proceed last week. Malaysia’s Genting is the lead developer, along with VinaCapital.

 
State Luminaries in PA Racino Ownership

The ownership group forming American Harness Tracks brings Ted Arneault and other regional notables into leadership of the last Pennsylvania racino.

Mexican Casino Boom a Center for Corruption

The spread of casino gambling in Mexico has more than tripled in the last decade, with allegations of links to organized crime, drug cartels and corrupt politicians. Despite several investigations, the Mexican government has made little attempt to regulate the problem. Tijuana Mayor Jorge Hank Rhon is a big players in the casino industry.

Councilmen Threatens to Halt D.C. Online Wagering

D.C. Councilmember Tommy Wells has said he plans to introduce legislation that will put an end to the district’s online wagering program. Even if Wells’ colleagues do not back the proposal, D.C.’s plan, already delayed until October, could be squashed on the federal level.

 
GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Virginia McDowell, President & CEO, Isle of Capri Casinos

On this week’s Global Gaming Business Podcast, Virginia McDowell, president and CEO of Isle of Capri Casinos, discusses the success and the growth of her company.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 28 • July 18, 2011

GGB NEWS July 18, 2011

Turning Up the Video Volume

The Illinois State Supreme Court has upheld the constitutionality of the 2009 Video Gaming Act, striking down a lower court’s decision, clearing the way for thousands of new slots at bars and restaurants. The decision is separate from a proposed massive increase in gaming positions proposed by the state legislature and being considered by the governor.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: See You in September  

Whether the Bay State will legalize casinos this year is still up in the air, with no agreement in sight between the governor and the two legislative kingpins. But talks will resume in September, with success hinging on the flexibility of the players, including Governor Deval Patrick and House Speaker Robert DeLeo.

Former MGM Chief Lanni Passes

Terry Lanni, who took MGM Resorts to new levels while he ran the company for a decade, passed away last week. Lanni retired in 2008 and spent the intervening years battling cancer. He will be remembered as a gaming visionary.

 
Former PAGCOR Execs Charged

The new leaders of the Philippines Amusement and Gaming Corp. have charged more than 40 former company executives with “plunder.” Former Chairman Ephraim Genuino (seated) and former President Rafael “Butch” Francisco are charged with using PAGCOR funds for political campaigns.

 
  NIGC Says Chippewa-Duluth Contract Illegal

A recent Notice of Violation issued by the National Indian Gaming Commission claimed the lease and revenue-sharing agreement between Duluth, Minnesota and the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians does not comply with federal law. The tribe stopped paying the city in August, 2009.

 U.K. Adopting Licensed Online Model

When it comes to online gaming, the U.K. is used to leading. But that nation is about to follow the examples of France and Italy and require online operators doing business with its citizens to be licensed in-country. The move could severely impact operators outside of the current white-listed jurisdictions.

Tax Review Under Way in South Africa

The low-tax environment for casinos in South Africa’s Gauteng Province could be on the verge of changing. Operators who have invested there based on a 9 percent tax rate are not amused, including the owners of the Gold Reef Casino Resort (l.) in Johannesburg.

Support Builds for Japan Casino Bill

The movement to introduce casino gaming in Japan may have been helped or hindered by the earthquake and tsunami, depending on which arguments one feels carry the most weight. Either way, casinos are now being seen as inevitable.

Fate of Illinois Casinos Still in Governor’s Hands  

The author of Illinois’s massive casino expansion bill wants to do something to force the state’s governor, Pat Quinn, to either veto or sign the bill before long.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Big Macau Numbers

Third quarter financial reports have emphasized the huge revenues being produced in Macau and brings up the question of how long can they be sustained.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Tony Rodio, President & CEO, Tropicana Atlantic City

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Tony Rodio, the president and CEO of the Tropicana Atlantic City, on the improvements to his property.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 27 • July 11, 2011

GGB NEWS July 11, 2011

Racinos Coming to Ohio

The Ohio legislature has passed legislation that sets the landscape for gaming in the state for the next 10 years, and limits it to four regional casinos and seven racinos. Beulah Park (l.), near Columbus, Ohio, is owned by Penn National, and would be moved to Dayton. The law was passed after Ohio Governor John Kasich and the casino/racetrack owners came to an agreement.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Silence is Golden  

Months after U.S. indictments of three online poker websites very little has been heard from the international online gaming regulators. While there is no expectation that all regulators will agree with the indictments, there certainly should have been an investigation. But outside of the Alderney regulators, nothing has happened. What’s going on?

Rivers Casino Opens In Des Plaines

Pending final state gaming board approval, the new $435 million Rivers Casino in Des Plaines, Illinois, located just 16 miles from downtown Chicago and up the road from O’Hare Airport, will open July 18. The 147,000 square foot casino, open 22 hours daily, will offer 1,050 slots and 48 table games with Illinois’ highest betting limits.

 
Full Tilt Deal Nearly Done?

France is the latest country to pull the license of Full Tilt Poker in a cascade of problems that started when the website was indicted by the U.S. Justice Department in April. And then a group of Las Vegas players filed a class-action lawsuit against the company. But a deal with a group of European investors to buy the company could be accomplished by next week and begin to resolve the problems surrounding the company.

 
  Illinois Gambling Bill On Hold

Illinois Senate President John Cullerton has put a bill to expand gambling on hold for a period that could last until January 2013. Approved on May 31, the legislation would add slot machines at horse racing tracks, Chicago airports and the state fairgrounds, and allow five new Illinois casinos in Danville, Chicago, Lake County, southern Cook County and Rockford. Supporters say the state would benefit from $1.6 billion dollars in upfront fees and $500 million dollars or more annually in tax revenue.

 Pokagon Band Expanding Four Winds; Buy Out Lakes

Construction has begun on a nine-story, 250-room hotel tower and a 1,600-seat multi-use event center at the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians’ Four Winds Casino Resort in New Buffalo, Michigan. The tribe also announced a $410 refinance and the early buyout of its management agreement Lakes Entertainment, Inc.

Cut Taxes? You’re Fired!

Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper has fired all five members of the state gaming commission after they agreed to reduce taxes on an already struggling state gaming industry.

Italy Set to Grow Offer

The Italian VLT and non-casino slot markets are booming. Economy Minister Giulio Tremonti, who recently had to cut €43 billion from the budget, has taken notice. Now a new round of licensing is expected to pass the Senate, with implementation to follow quickly.

New Thai PM Seen As Good Thing for Casinos 

The landslide election of Yingluck Shinawatra, Thailand’s first woman prime minister, could start the ball rolling toward gaming legalization, according to one respected consulting firm.

IGT Names President

International Game Technology once again goes outside the gaming industry to fill the newly created position of president with Eric Berg, while the company announces the departure of a longtime sales executive.

10th Annual Gaming & Technology Awards to be Presented at Global Gaming Expo

The leading awards for technology in the gaming industry return once again to Global Gaming Expo, where the 10^th annual edition will presented in October.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Mitchell Etess, CEO, Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Mitchell Etess, the CEO of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, on expansion plans for the tribally owned company.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 26 • July 4, 2011

GGB NEWS July 4, 2011

Tilted!

Alderney suspends the license of Full Tilt Poker, causing the online poker giant to go offline in Europe, casting doubt on whether it will ever be successful again. But reports of a possible buyout could save the deposits of U.S. players.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Supreme Decision for Tribes   

A Supreme Court ruling that upheld a lower court ruling means that gaming tribes have a little more leverage in negotiating with states, whose ability to ask for lots of money has been clipped dramatically. The Rincon Tribe had sued then-Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger for imposing an illegal tax.

Genting Wins U.K. License

Genting Casinos in the U.K. has won the competition for the large casino license for Solihull. The largest operator of casinos in the U.K. will be developing a £120-million complex with hotel and non-gaming amenities right next to NEC, one of the premier exhibition centers in the country.

 
Hilton Nixes Hotel Deals in AC, Vegas

The seminal hotel brand, Hilton, will disappear from the two leading gaming destinations in the United States after executives cancel deals that allowed casino hotels to use the name. Both facilities have fallen on hard times.

 
  Singapore Success

Although doubts about the cost of the integrated resorts were still around when they opened more than a year ago, any such reservations have been erased as Singapore has met and exceeded expectations for its gaming industry.

  Online D.C. Lottery Games May Be Delayed

The D.C. Lottery is going ahead with a plan to introduce several online games over the summer as a warm up to the cash wagering games it wants to introduce in September. But objections by residents to the location of the gambling parlors may hold up implementation.

Waiting for Illinois Governor

Governor Pat Quinn of Illinois says he plans to take his time before deciding whether or not to sign a bill that would vastly increase the number of slot machines and gaming in the state.

Catskill Casinos Could Be Revived

Barack Obama’s reversal of the Bush-era ban on off-reservation casinos is certain to bring suspended Catskill casino plans back to the drawing board. Will the St. Regis Mohawk project at Monticello Raceway be “on again”?

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Global Gaming Giant

Genting moves out of Malaysia and seeks to make a serious impact on the gaming industry in the United States with casino plans in Florida and New York.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Brad Friedmutter, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Friedmutter Group

The week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features a conversation with Bred Friedmutter, the founder and chief executive officer of the Friedmutter Group, a Las Vegas architectural and design firm, on the role his company played in the design and construction of the Cosmopolitan.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 25 • June 27, 2011

GGB NEWS June 27, 2011

Korean Courage

Korea appears ready to change its regulations and allow residents of the country to patronize future integrated resorts. The position taken by tourism minster Chung Byoung-gug (above) follows reports in recent months that major operators Wynn Resorts and Las Vegas Sands would be willing to build if locals are allowed to play.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Congressional Fiat
   

Two bills that would legalize and regulate forms of internet gaming are introduced in the House. A bill to legalize online poker, introduced by Rep. Joe Barton would travel a different route and may be a companion bill to one being crafted in the Senate by Majority Leader Harry Reid.

Illinois: Quinn is Mighty

With Illinois’s newest casino set to open next month in Des Plaines, possibly more attention is being grabbed by the effort to give supporters of a huge gaming expansion bill enough time to convince Governor Pat Quinn to sign it.

 
Israel Tourism Minister Supports Casino

The annual “Israel should have a casino” statement was delivered recently by Tourism Minister Stas Misezhnikov, who provided no plan for same. Meanwhile, in neighboring Jordan, parliamentarians are about to hear details on their own four-year-old Dead Sea Casino affair.

 
Switzerland Awards Zurich, Neuchatel Licenses

Swiss federal and local authorities have confirmed the awarding of the nation’s two most recent casino licenses, including the long-awaited Zurich license. Casino de la Rotonde, in Neuchatel, will be operated by FBAM Neuchatel SA. The decisions followed exactly the recommendation of the influential Swiss Casino Commission.

Genting Building Reputation in New York, Florida

Malaysian casino developer Genting is anxious to get its racino up and running in New York City, while at the same time, it lobbies for integrated resorts in Florida, where the company recently bought the home of the Miami Herald to build an integrated resort.  A possible convention center at Aqueduct Raceway is seen as leverage to move to a full-blown casino there.

ICE to Move to ExCeL London

The ICE Totally Gaming trade show will move to the ExCeL London exhibition center beginning in February 2013 after development plans made Earl’s Court an untenable location.

Off-Reservation Casinos Becoming Targets

The Bureau of Indian Affairs is throwing out Bush era rules that made it almost impossible for tribes to put land very far removed from their reservations into trust for gaming purposes, but opponents could torpedo its application. California Senator Dianne Feinstein vows to oppose any relaxation in the rules.

Wynn Eyes Singapore

It will be eight years before the Singapore government could even consider expanding its casino industry, but Wynn Resorts Chairman Steve Wynn wants to be there.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: High Water. Low Profits

Flooding in the middle part of America depressed revenues in May. But is it weather related or is it a more endemic problem that signals more difficulties for the regional gaming industry. Let’s find out!

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Ed Tracy, President, Sands China

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Ed Tracy, the president of Sands China, on why the appointment of himself and Davis Sisk, the COO of the company, created such success.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 24 • June 20, 2011

GGB NEWS June 20, 2011

Off Rez Back On

The controversial memo that essentially halted the spread of off-reservation casinos in the U.S. was withdrawn last week by the Obama administration’s Bureau of Indian Affairs head Larry Echo Hawk, which will begin to accept applications again for taking land into trust for gaming purposes.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Buckeye Blast 

Ohio Governor John Kasich and Rock Ohio Caesars Chairman Dan Gilbert celebrated the signing of a deal that will enable ROC to open casinos in Cleveland and Cincinnati last week. Penn National, which will own casinos in Columbus and Toledo, has yet to agree. The deal permits almost 20,000 at Ohio’s seven racetracks, as well.

The Details: Melco Grabs Studio

By purchasing a majority interest in Macau Studio City, Melco Crown Entertainment, led by Lawrence Ho, is poised to become the next integrated resort to open in the SAR, most likely beating out Wynn and MGM.

 
Boyd Gaming Buys Biloxi IP

Boyd Gaming, which owns Sam’s Town in Tunica, Mississippi, will increase its presence in the state with the purchase of the IP Casino Resort Spa in Biloxi for $278 million. After the deal closes, expected before the end of the year, Boyd Gaming will invest another $44 million to renovate the property.

Tipperary Venue Gets Planning Approval

Ireland is on the verge of getting its first casino resort, if the government and legislators can see their way to legalizing casino gaming. The mixed-use leisure facility with the working title “Tipperary Venue” will feature a five-star hotel and a variety of racing and other entertainment options.

Time Extended for Illinois Gaming Bill

Illinois Senate President John Cullerton (l.) and other lawmakers are doing their best to give Governor Pat Quinn (enough time to decide to not to veto a gaming expansion bill both houses recently passed.

SkyCity Wins New Zealand Convention Center

New Zealand-based casino operator SkyCity has been chosen to build New Zealand’s first international-level convention center. The company will pay the entire estimated NZ$350 million construction cost but is expecting to be allowed to expand gaming at its adjacent Auckland casino.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 23 • June 13, 2011

GGB NEWS June 13, 2011

Melco To Add Studio?

The long-stalled Macau Studio City project will reportedly be taken over by Melco Crown Entertainment, led by Lawrence Ho. The Studio City site (rendering of the original project above) is located on the Cotai Strip past the Venetian and near the Wynn Resorts site. The agreement with the previous owners would give Melco its third casino in the SAR, the second in Cotai.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Asia Centric
 

The fifth annual G2E Asia was held last week in an environment of exploding growth for Macau. Delegates learned about expansion opportunities across the Pacific Rim and explored a trade show floor represented by almost 200 exhibitors. Sheldon Adelson received the show’s Gaming Visionary Award.

Rank Majority Held By Guocoa

U.K. gaming operator Rank Group has been taken by surprise at the success of a low £1.50-a-share offer from Malaysia’s Guoco Group. The mandatory bid managed to take Guoco’s stake in Rank from 41 percent to 56 percent in a matter of days.

 
Sands Cuts Ribbon on Pennsylvania Hotel

Politicians, regulators and executives gathered to officially cut the ribbon on the new 300-room hotel at the Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem.

  
India Gets First True Casino

Gaming fans in India will be happy to hear the country is getting its first land-based, full-service casino. The Mayfair Gangtok resort in Sikkim will be the first of its kind on the subcontinent.

Toledo to be First in Ohio

Newly appointed Hollywood Casino Toledo General Manager Richard Saint Jean brags that his casino will be the first of Ohio’s four regional casinos to open, unless the Ohio government throws another wrench into the mix.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Dan D’Arrigo, Chief Financial Officer, MGM Resorts International

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Dan D’Arrigo, the chief financial officer for MGM Resorts International, on how the company’s finances have improved and the impact of CityCenter.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 22 • June 6, 2011

GGB NEWS June 6, 2011

Chicago Casino Considered

A surprise gaming expansion bill passes quickly through the Illinois legislature and lands on Governor Pat Quinn’s desk, due to heavy lobbying by new Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel (above). With a new Windy City casino, four more riverboat licenses, and slots at racetracks, it represents a huge jump in capacity and threatens market equilibrium.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Tabcorp’s Echo
  

The anticipated demerger of Australia’s Tabcorp into separate entities for casinos and all other gaming has received a “yes” vote from shareholders and affirmation from the court. Now, casino operator Echo Entertainment and gaming and wagering company Tabcorp can settle into their new roles as objects of takeover speculation. However, the engineer of the deal, Tabcorp Chairman Elmer Funke Kupper, is out of a job.

Genting Buys into Florida

The Asian gaming giant, now building the racino at Aqueduct in New York City, spent $236 million for 14 acres on Biscayne Bay in Miami. While the resort is not contingent upon gaming, it will progress much faster with it.

 
Macau Sets New Records as MGM IPO Starts Trading

The May numbers are out for Macau and yet again, the SAR’s casinos have produced record revenues for the period. At the same time, the release of the MGM China IPO reached its peak, pricing at the highest level estimated.

  
Tribes Struggle With Online Gaming Role

Caesars Entertainment and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Nation signed a 7-year extension of Caesars’ management agreement for the Harrah’s Cherokee Casino & Hotel at an event celebrating the completion of the first phase of the casino’s $650 million expansion project. But some say the tribe ought to diversify, especially as tribal distributions are down and a $1 billion debt looms.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Political Animals

Politics is an important factor in many businesses, but nothing like it is in the gaming business. Savvy investors need to understand how the decisions made by politicians and public officials can impact their financial stakes.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Bill Hornbuckle, Chief Marketing Officer, MGM Resorts International

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Bill Hornbuckle, the chief marketing officer for MGM Resorts International, on how the company is developing a new players club with wide ramifications for the company and the industry.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 21 • May 30, 2011

GGB NEWS MAY 30, 2011

Online Gaming Indictments: Round 2

Federal authorities bust another 10 online gaming websites, but this time they go beyond poker. Gaming industry ramps up efforts to get approval for a federal bill that would legalize, regulate and tax online poker.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: State of the East 

15^th annual East Coast Gaming Congress examines an industry poised to begin recovery after years of recessionary woes. Issues discussed impact jurisdictions from Massachusetts to Florida and New Jersey to Ohio.

Landry’s Officially Takes Over Trump Marina

Landry's Inc. has been approved as the new owner of the Trump Marina in Atlantic City. Tilman J. Fertitta, Owner, Chairman and CEO of Landry’s, Inc., has completed the $38 million purchase. Renovations to the property, which is being re-branded the Golden Nugget, have already begun.

 
Pinnacle Buys Into Vietnam

Pinnacle Entertainment last week reached an agreement with Asian Coast Development Ltd. to invest in and manage the second of the company’s integrated resorts planned for the Ho Tram Strip in Vietnam. It is Pinnacle’s first foray into the Asian gaming market. ACDL is currently building its first IR on Ho Tram, MGM Grand.

  
Tabcorp Casino Demerger Vote Nears

Australia could have a new casino operator by the start of the second week of June. The demerger of Tabcorp’s casino division into the entity Echo will begin trading on June 6 if a vote is successful on June 1.

Big Wheels on the Strip

The Vegas gaming hall closes its doors after more than half a century of glamour, glitz and high-rolling success. Legendary status could not save it from the Great Recession. One of the original casinos on the Las Vegas Strip, the property simply fell apart.

Confirmed: Mohegans Plan Catskills Racino

In the race to bring giant Ferris wheel attractions to the Las Vegas Strip, one developer has county approval but no money; another has the money but no government OK.

 Lawsuit Would Payments to State

U.S. Supreme Court may review a lawsuit pursued by a Southern California tribe to limit the ability of state governments to squeeze money out of gaming tribes. The suit by the Rincon Band, which owns Harrah’s Rincon, could impact many other states.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Asian Action

Any forward thinking gaming company must consider Asia. The hottest growth region in gaming, Asian players continue to dominate the market, and operators and suppliers need to have a presence there.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Gamal Aziz, President, MGM Hospitality

This week the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Gamal Aziz, the president of MGM Hospitality, on the growth of the non-gaming arm of MGM Resorts International.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 20 • May 23, 2011

GGB NEWS MAY 23, 2011

Going Galaxy

Macau’s newest integrated resort opens in the Cotai region. Galaxy Macau, the Cotai flagship of parent company, Galaxy Entertainment, promises that an Asian-centric design will make it the preferred resort for the major segment of the Macau market.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE:  That’s What Friends Are For

Billionaires commit to invest millions in the IPO for MGM China. MGM Resorts founder Kirk Kerkorian, billionaire hedge fund operator John Paulson and two other “whales” contribute almost $200 million to get the offering off the ground. The offering is seeking to raise $1.5 billion.

Barden Dies

Don Barden, the first African-American owner of a major casino company, died last week after a long battle with cancer. Barden owned the casinos in Gary, Indiana, and the Fitzgerald’s casinos in Las Vegas, Reno, Colorado and Mississippi.

 
Mississippi Casinos Reopen As Flooding Recedes

Casinos in Tunica, Mississippi are reopening one by one as the threat of flooding diminishes along the Mississippi River. All 10 Tunica casinos closed for the first time since gaming began there in 1994, leading to an estimated loss of $7 million - $10 million in gaming tax revenue to state and local governments.

  
Wynn: Cotai Opening in 2014

Observing the opening of Galaxy Macau, Steve Wynn expects to begin construction soon and is targeting a 2014 opening for his next lavish project in the Cotai region.

Sayonara, Sahara

The Vegas gaming hall closes its doors after more than half a century of glamour, glitz and high-rolling success. Legendary status could not save it from the Great Recession. One of the original casinos on the Las Vegas Strip, the property simply fell apart.

Confirmed: Mohegans Plan Catskills Racino

Speculation that the Connecticut tribe would partner in a New York gaming venture has been verified by Mohegan CEO Mitchell Etess. The proposed $600 million facility has raised the ire of other gaming interests in the state.

 GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Frank Fahrenkopf, President and CEO, American Gaming Association

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Frank Fahrenkopf the president and CEO of the American Gaming Association, on the group’s recent announcement that it would support legislation to legalize online poker in the U.S.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 19 • May 16, 2011

GGB NEWS MAY 16, 2011

Buckeye Battle

A game of slow motion chicken is shaping up between casino developers in Ohio on one side, and the governor and legislature on the other side. Governor John Kasich wants to raises taxes on gaming, and one casino developer has stopped construction of two casinos, including the Horseshoe Casino in Cleveland (l.), in response, while the other threatens a lawsuit should governor follow through on his threats.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: AGA Pushes Online Poker

A new “white paper” outlining the position of the American Gaming Association towards online gaming was released last week in Washington D.C. complete with a “fly in” by gaming executives to lobby members of Congress. AGA President and CEO Frank J. Fahrenkopf says U.S. gaming companies should be allowed to serve people who want to play poker online.

Racinos Beat Casinos In Texas House

A Texas House committee recently approved a bill to allow slots at racetracks and Native American reservations. At the same time, no action has been taken on a bill allowing up to seven destination resort casinos throughout the state. Rep. Mike “Tuffy” Hamilton said he could not get consensus on the casino bills.

 
Massachusetts Lures Big Players

Now that some sort of expanded gaming in Massachusetts looks more likely, some of the biggest players in gaming are showing interesting and unveiling ambitious casino resort projects. Mohegan Sun’s Mitchell Etess is looking to build a resort in Palmer.

  
MGM China Ups Revenue Target

The still-to-be-completed MGM China IPO has now tripled since it was announced last year. The company is now looking to raise $1.5 billion, much of which will got to partner Pansy Ho, who sells half of her stake, while MGM gets 51 percent.

Ohio Casinos Downsize?

A proposal in the legislature that would dramatically increase the taxes that Ohio’s four casinos would pay has one of the developers threatening to downsize its casinos and sue the state. Governor John Kasich has demanded higher taxes for Ohio casinos.

Austrian-Italian JV’s Second VLT Venue

The Italian VLT market continues to grow as planned venues come on line. The latest addition is from Azzurro Gaming, the joint venture between operator Casinos Austria International and license-holder Cogetech of Italy. At left, Josef Leutgeb (CFO Casinos Austria International) and Fabio Schiavolin (CEO Cogetech and president of Azzurro Gaming) in Vincendo Meran.

 Arizona Tribal Case in Limbo

Two court decisions put all actions on hold in the case of the Tohono O’odham Nation and its application to put land into federal trust in Glendale, Arizona—until the appeals process runs its course, delaying construction on the resort casino.

Crown Adds to VIP Investment

Crown continues to tweak its properties in the Australian market—if spending another $300 million on top of upgrades costing $1.5 billion-plus can be considered “tweaking.” In any case, Crown appears to be going full tilt to capture the growing Asian VIP market, with improvements at Crown Melbourne and other sites.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Ralph Topping, Chief Executive, William Hill

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Ralph Topping, the chief executive of British bookmaker William Hill, and the three heads of his recently acquired U.S. divisions, all based in Nevada.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 18 • May 9, 2011

GGB NEWS MAY 9, 2011

Gaming Comeback?

AGA’s State of the States report shows progress toward the elusive comeback of the gaming industry and well-established acceptance of the industry. Non-gaming amenities continue to show increases in visitation by casino customers.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: It's Back

After months of anticipation by gaming proponents, the Massachusetts legislature has taken up the issue again. The Speaker of the House Robert DeLeo seems to have softened his stance a bit from last term when his conflict with Governor Deval Patrick torpedoed a legalization bill.

Galaxy Macau to Open Amid Record Revenues

The Macau gross gaming revenues for April again hit a record for the third month running. And ready to open on May 15 amid these records is Galaxy Macau, the first casino on Cotai for Galaxy Entertainment.

 
Penn Gets M

The regional Pennsylvania casino operator, which started a marketing partnership with M Resort at the beginning of the year, gets a good deal, buying up the property’s debt. Management will remain intact.

 
Bermuda Looks Again at Gaming

North Atlantic tourism destination Bermuda is again open to considering the introduction of casino gaming. The subject was one of many discussed at a recent weekend brainstorming session attended by industry and government representatives.

Ohio Casinos Downsize?

A proposal in the legislature that would dramatically increase the taxes that Ohio’s four casinos would pay has one of the developers threatening to downsize its casinos and sue the state. Governor John Kasich has demanded higher taxes for Ohio casinos.

William Hill Acquires Gets Third U.S. Bookie

Nevada’s sports betting operators are being acquired by U.K. giant William Hill. The latest move involves Las Vegas-based Brandywine Bookmaking. William Hill CEO Ralph Topping says the acquisitions will position the company for rapid growth in Nevada, the rest of the U.S. and even Latin America.

 Arizona Tribal Case in Limbo

Two court decisions put all actions on hold in the case of the Tohono O’odham Nation and its application to put land into federal trust in Glendale, Arizona—until the appeals process runs its course, delaying construction on the resort casino.

 IGT Launches Offer for Online Gaming Company

International Game Technology launches a tender offer for Entraction Holding, hoping to enhance its gaming portfolio by adding poker, sports betting and bingo offerings.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 17 • May 2, 2011

GGB NEWS MAY 2, 2011

Korean Control

The success of Singapore is a major factor in the renewed effort by the South Korean government to create an integrated resort industry. Carrots include increased tourism, more jobs and market potential four times that of Singapore. The stick: the threat of a change in government after next year’s national elections. Kangwonland (l.) is the only Korean casino open to citizens of the country, while 16 small casinos are available to foreigners only.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Whistling Past the Graveyard?

Online gaming companies are playing down the impact of last month’s indictment of the big online poker sites, but it has clearly put a damper on plans to move a federal bill to legalize online gaming, although Congressman John Campbell says he’ll push forward with his bill. But will that encourage states to get into action? And what of the tribal desires to have a seat at the table?

Ohio Casinos Get No Respect

Penn National Gaming Inc. held a groundbreaking for its Columbus, Ohio casino that wasn’t attended by any officials from that city. And the Horseshoe Casino in Cincinnati won’t open until 2013 at the earliest due to the uncertainty being produced by Governor John Kasich’s desire to increase the money casinos pay to the state.

 
LV Sands Piles on Jacobs

Former Sands China President Steve Jacobs got it from Las Vegas Sands with both barrels last week in the increasingly vitriolic confrontation between the two parties. The company filed a counterclaim against Jacobs, taking the dispute to a new level.

Texas Faces Gaming Deadlines

The Texas legislature is considering two bills, Senate Joint Resolution 34 and House Joint Resolution 112, to expand gambling in the state. One plan would allow horse and dog tracks where parimutuel betting occurs to offer slot machines, and another proposal would allow eight “destination casinos” to be developed across the state. But time is running out, as a May 12 deadline looms.

IGT Sells Barcrest; Sets DR Deal; Profits Up

International Game Technology announces it is selling its British Barcrest subsidiary and a deal with a company for distribution in the Dominican Republic, after beating the estimates of analysts with a healthy profit for the second quarter.

Australia Slots Battle Gets Noisy

The question of whether or not to impose a mandatory pre-commitment system for all non-casino slot machines in Australia is inspiring attacks from all sides of the issue. Prime Minister Julia Gillard may buckle under to a demand from a key Tasmanian legislator.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Where Are We Headed?

Earnings season always bring some indicators about where the industry is going, halfway through, confusion reigns. But maybe there’s some light peeking through the clouds.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Patrick Ramsey, Chief Executive Officer, Multimedia Games

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Patrick Ramsey, the CEO of Multimedia Games, on why his company has become one of the major players in the slot market.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 16 • April 25, 2011

GGB NEWS APRIL 25, 2011

No Go In Vancouver

The Vancouver city council rejected the relocation of Paragon’s Edgewater Casino to a site near the BC Place stadium complex (rendering above), bowing to public pressure, rejecting hundreds of jobs and millions in additional tax revenues, as well as the argument that a first-class city needs a first-class casino.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Online Outcomes

“Black Friday,” the day of the indictment of three online poker sites, has had an immediate impact on everyone involved—and those not. The companies immediately lost market share, gained by their competitors. The federal government released the websites but only to allow the company to refund money to players. The land-based industry pulled back from its online competitor. And legislation to legalize online poker at the federal level has stalled.

Singapore Set to Overtake Strip

Singapore continues to impress industry analysts with its ability to book ever-increasing gaming revenue. With the exception of one or two potential stumbling blocks, the two integrated resorts there are on course to surpass the Las Vegas Strip this year.

 
London Bid Is Being Challenged

The awarding of a new London casino license to Aspers Group is being challenged in court. The new large casino as defined under the 2005 Gaming Act is intended to promote regeneration of an area, but competing bidder Great Eastern says the regeneration aspect of the Aspers plan falls short.

Sands Bethlehem Previews Hotel

The Sands Casino Resort in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, conducted a tour of the hotel it will open in May. Facilities include several restaurants as well as the first Italian outlet opened by star chef Emeril Lagasse.

Philippines IR to Be Bigger.

 The Philippines integrated resort project Belle Grande Manila Bay is now expected to open in the second half of 2012 rather than the fourth quarter of 2011. The developer says the delay is needed to expand the size of the project, given the positive results exhibited by Singapore.

Casino at Nassau Coliseum?

That’s the word from insiders, who say the Shinnecock tribe could build an off-reservation gaming hall at the sports arena, plus one closer to home in the Hamptons.

Atlantic City Tourism District Approved by CRDA

The new state-sponsored tourism district is seen as the first step on Atlantic City’s road to recovery. The boundaries outlined at a board meeting last week include the entire Boardwalk, the Marina District, Bader Field and some of the back bay waterfront.

Boom for Wynn Macau, Vegas

The first-quarter numbers are impressive, with a 46 percent spike in Macau, and a 24 percent increase in Las Vegas. Shares are now valued at $1.30—over 22 cents in 2010. Wynn and Encore Las Vegas revenues were up 24 percent.

Adelson To Receive 2011 G2E Asia Visionary Award

Las Vegas Sands Chairman and CEO Sheldon Adelson will receive a prestigious aware at G2E Asia in June in recognition of his contributions and development of gaming in Asia.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Regional Returns

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 15 • April 18, 2011

GGB NEWS APRIL 18, 2011

Feds Charge Big Poker Sites

The hammer finally came down on the most popular online poker sites in the U.S. when the federal government last week indicted 11 officials of the companies and arrested two of them. The Justice Department is seeking to shut down the sites, but two of the three sites were still operating at the end of the week.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Pennsylvania Goes to the Woods

Pennsylvania has chosen Nemacolin Woodlands, the Fayette County resort, as the winner of the final Category 3 resort-class casino license, which authorizes up to 600 slots and 50 table games. The Isle of Capri will create and manage a Lady Luck casino near the resort itself. The victory means that Gettysburg won’t get a casino on the week of the 150^th anniversary of the start of the Civil War.

Kerkorian Steps Down From MGM Board

Gaming legend Kirk Kerkorian last week announced he was stepping down from the board of MGM Resorts. Kerkorian, 93, is founder of the company and has been instrumental in developing the casino giant into the worldwide force it is today.

 
Washington, D.C., Nevada Move Online Gambling Bills

The District of Columbia has approved a budget that allows the state-run lottery to offer a poker website within its borders, becoming the nations first jurisdiction to allow online gaming. But the site could run into trouble against murky federal legislation and other obstacles. In Nevada, a bill legalizing intrastate online poker was approved by an Assembly committee.

MGM’s Macau Move

In a surprise announcement, MGM Resorts revealed that it would become the majority owner of MGM Grand Macau. Partner Pansy Ho will put her own equity into the previously announced IPO, which will reduce her holdings in the company by about half. MGM will buy 1 percent from her and the investing public will own the remaining equity.

William Hill Buys Into U.S.

 The British sports betting giant buys two Nevada companies, giving William Hill a dominant position running dozens of sports books in the state. The company also buys America’s first mobile sports betting platform.

Caesars Cuts Deal with Massachusetts Track

Caesars Entertainment last week reached a deal with Suffolk Downs Raceway, near Logan Airport in Boston, to build a $600 million gaming entertainment center. Meanwhile, the speaker of the Massachusetts House indicated that he is open to compromise on the issue of racinos in order to make gaming legislation happen in the Bay State.

Senators Want to Limit ‘Fix’

Senators Jon Kyl and Dianne Feinstein want to make it harder for tribes to put land into federal trust if the land isn’t near the tribal homeland.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: WMS Hits a Rough Patch

A weak first quarter and warnings about future earnings have sunk the price of WMS shares, creating speculation about other slot companies and the future of that supplier sector

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Rob Goldstein, President of Global Gaming Operations, Las Vegas Sands

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Rob Goldstein, the president of global gaming operations for Las Vegas Sands on new position with the company and its oversight of all the company’s properties.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 14 • April 11, 2011

GGB NEWS APRIL 11, 2011

NIGA Nation

The annual trade show of the National Indian Gaming Association, held last week in Phoenix, attracted vendors from around the world and featured a contest for NIGA leadership between current Chairman Ernie Stevens Jr. (l.) and challenger Ivan Makil, the former president of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. But it wasn’t much of a contest in the end as Stevens trounced Makil.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Massachusetts Slots in the Box

The issue of “slots in the box” i.e. racinos, continues to separate Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick and Speaker of the House Robert DeLeo. So gaming will take a back seat to the budget for now. But one senator has a plan that seems to be acceptable to both sides.

Taiwan Still Wants Gaming

The 2009 defeat of the casino gaming referendum by the citizens of Penghu derailed Taiwan’s gaming effort at the time. Now, the Taiwan government is taking another stab at establishing a couple of casinos on some of the country’s offshore islands, including Kinmen and Matsu.

No Clear Path for Mexico

Going by the number of press releases about the gaming business in Mexico, it would be easy to assume that the industry there is built on solid ground. But a look at the foundation reveals an improvised structure that is in desperate need of a complete renovation.

 
 Three Bills Filed to ‘Fix’ Carcieri
   
Three active bills in Congress would offer a “Carcieri fix” for the Supreme Court ruling that has crippled putting land into federal trust for Indian tribes recognized after 1934. Senate Indian Affairs Chairman Daniel Akaka is sponsoring a bill to amend the limiting 1934 law.

Florida Casino Effort Revived

A state Senate committee has passed a new version of legislation that would create five destination-style casino resorts in the state. A level playing field for parimutuels may make this effort more palatable to racino operators. But it might spell the end of the payments from the casinos owned by the Seminole tribe, including the Hard Rock in Hollywood

Indiana Riverboats Rules Change for the Better

The Indiana legislature has made it legal for riverboat casinos to be permanently docked, eliminating the need for a “crew,” and for casinos to hold card tournaments in hotels that they operate adjacent or nearby the actual casino, including the magnificent dome of the West Baden Springs Hotel, operated by the French Lick casino in central Indiana.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Amy Lipton, Vice President, Marketing, WMS Gaming    

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Amy Lipton, the vice president of marketing for WMS Gaming, on how her experience marketing for a well known high-tech company will help in her current role.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 13 • April 4, 2011

GGB NEWS APRIL 4, 2011

Lone Star Debate on Gaming

A new statewide poll indicates 86 percent of Texans believe the public should vote on legalizing casinos, with 67 percent of respondents in favor of gambling and 29 percent against. They may have a chance to do that if gambling bills pass the Texas House. Houston’s Tilman Fertitta, whose Landry’s Inc. owns the Golden Nugget in Las Vegas and soon in Atlantic City, is a big supporter.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Remember the Riverboats

April 1 was the 20th anniversary of legal riverboat gambling in the United States. The launch in Iowa started a wave that swept through the South and the Midwest and brought gaming to the heart of America. The Diamond Lady riverboat in Bettandorf was the first boat to set sail engineered by the late Isle of Capri Chairman Bernie Goldstein.

The Full Fertitta

Another domino falls as the Frank and Lorenzo Fertitta , owners of Station Casinos, form an alliance with Full Tilt Poker just days after the Wynn-PokerStars deal was announced and the Caesars-888.com relationship finalized. Do these deals signal a new day in Nevada for online gaming?

Florida 'Destination Resort' Casino Bill Dies

Senator Dennis Jones has withdrawn a bill that would have allowed five Las Vegas-style “destination resorts” in the state. Jones pulled the bill after Senator Jeremy Ring attached an amendment that would have allowed the state’s parimutuels to operate as casinos with the same tax rate as the proposed destination casinos—which would be lower than their current rate.

 
Macau Sets March Record
   
The boom in Macau didn’t slow down in March as revenue increased by almost 50 percent over March 2010. And annual reports issued by the SAR’s gaming companies show dramatic results, including Melco Crown, owner of City of Dreams.

Illinois House Lifts Casino Smoking Ban

The Illinois House of Representatives, by a vote of 62-52, approved a bill to repeal the state’s ban on smoking in casinos. Since the prohibition on smoking began on January 1, 2008, the state has lost $800 million in casino tax revenue. Senate passage is not nearly as certain, however.

Nova Scotia Plans Generate Controversy

The Canadian province of Nova Scotia has announced its new strategy on gaming policy. The plan calls for the use of mandatory player cards for VLTs (l.) and reaffirms the province’s earlier refusal to enter the online gaming market. Rejected is a proposed C$45-million racino for the Halifax area.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Counting Your Chickens   

As state legislatures meet, discussions about legalizing or expanding gaming take on a heightened urgency. Too many times, however, the talk is just that and nothing happens. Reign in your enthusiasm.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 12 • March 28, 2011

GGB NEWS MARCH 28, 2011

Nevada Numbers

Nevada was the center of the online gaming world last week. Wynn Resorts announced that it had reached an agreement with the online gaming site, PokerStars, to offer internet poker if the activity is legalized in the United States. A bill that would legalize intrastate online poker was considered in Carson City, and Caesars’ deal with 888.com was approved by the Nevada Gaming Commission.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: New Taiwan Islands Eye Casinos

The islands of Matsu is considering holding a referendum that would permit casinos to be built on the islands, very close to the Chinese mainland. Kinmen Island, also near the mainland, is also considering a casino vote.

Shangri-La Pulls Hotel Brand on Cotai

The deal to develop and brand a Shangri-La hotel at the Cotai site owned by Las Vegas Sands is over by mutual agreement. Parcels 5 and 6 are under construction and the company insists they will open by the end of the year, albeit in a phased manner.

Tabcorp Names Future Casino Division

Australia’s Tabcorp is on track for a demerger of its casino business from the rest of its gaming and wagering activities. If all goes as planned, a new company called Echo Entertainment Group Ltd will be operating the four formerly Tabcorp casinos, including Jupiters on the Gold Coast, by this coming summer.

 
Macau-Hong Kong Bridge Funded 

One of the biggest public projects in the world will now get started because a consortium of banks have agreed to begin funding a bridge that will connect Macau with Hong Kong and the Chinese province of Zhuhai.

€300 Million Dublin Casino Proposal Outlined

There are some 70 proposals for casinos sitting inside closed file drawers in Ireland. One such that has come to light involves a €300 million investment in Dublin at Spencer Dock. A potential hiccup: the company that proposed the plan has almost a billion euro in bad debts with the government’s bailout agency.

Europe Seeks Online Gaming Answers

The European Union is finally getting serious about finding an answer to the online gaming question. As more E.U. member states devise their own unique legislation to govern the sector, and more challenges end up in the European Court, the move is being welcomed but warily by the industry.

Aqueduct Casino Delays Opening  

The highly anticipated racino at the Aqueduct racetrack, Resorts World operated by Genting New York, will open months later than first planned, but with 900 more video lottery machines. 

Gaughan Sues Oklahoma Tribe
 

Las Vegas gaming company Gaughan Gaming, led by gaming legend Michael Gaughan, is suing the Tonkawa Indians of Oklahoma for cancelling its contract to operate the tribe’s two casinos last year.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Time to Buy LV Sands?
 

Questions about the company’s actions in light of the firing of Sands China CEO Steve Jacobs last year have impacted the share price. Is it low enough to buy now?

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Jim Ryan, CEO, PartyGaming

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Jim Ryan, the CEO of PartyGaming, just a week before the merger with sports-betting giant bwin is completed.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 11 • March 21, 2011

GGB NEWS MARCH 21, 2011

The Bally Shuffle

Gavin Isaacs (l.), executive vice president and chief operating officer of Bally Technologies for the past five years, will be the new CEO of Shuffle Master, Inc., while Ramesh Srinivasan, moves from systems head to president and COO of Bally.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Aspers Takes U.K. Olympic Gold

Aspers Group has won the large casino license granted the London Borough of Newham. The choice of Aspers puts the casino in the heart of ongoing 2012 Olympics construction and on-track to open for the big event. But the losing bidders may decide to continue the contest in court.

Republican Introduces Online Gaming Bill 

California Congressman John Campbell files a bill identical to the one passed last year by the House Financial Services Committee.  Experts say it will be difficult to pass again, now that Republicans are in charge.

LV Sands Loses Court Rulings in Jacobs Case; FBI Joins In

The increasingly bitter battle between Las Vegas Sands and former Sands China President Steve Jacobs took a turn in his favor last week when a Las Vegas court rejected two LV Sands’ motions and the FBI joined the list of investigating organizations. Jacobs is also suing Sheldon Adelson for defamation.

NIGA DEBATE: Ivan Makil, Former President, Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community 

This week, GGB News presents the views of the two candidates for the chairman of the National Indian Gaming Association. Ivan Makil is the challenger for the post of chairman of NIGA. A former tribal leader in Arizona, Makil has a long history of leadership and innovation in Indian Country, and is a partner in an innovative company that provides services to tribal governments.

NIGA DEBATE: Ernie Stevens, Chairman, National Indian Gaming Association

This week, GGB News presents the views of the two candidates for the chairman of the National Indian Gaming Association. Ernie Stevens has been leading NIGA as its chairman for 10 years. He has been on the front lines of many battles in Congress and has achieved many goals. He wants to continue progress for tribal government gaming.

Kansas House May Require Casino Challenge

Kansas may join Illinois as the most dysfunctional of the Midwest gaming states as the state House may torpedo a contract issued to build a long-delayed state-owned casino. House Speaker Mike O’Neal wants the Peninsula Gaming contract for a casino in Mulvane voided.

Mexican Authorities Seek Slots Crackdown

The expansion of gaming in Mexico in recent years is still waiting for its counterpoint on the legislative side of the equation. At both the local and national government levels, a push-back of sorts is beginning to take shape.

Illinois May Repeal Slots Law

What was once considered a big payday for the state and slot manufacturers may go away if Illinois Senate President John Cullerton is able to pass a bill repealing the law.

Florida Internet Bill OK’d by Committee

A Florida Senate committee released a bill, sponsored by Senator Miguel Diaz de la Portilla , which would legalize online poker in the state, with the state’s parimutuels being the center of the action. It also bans offshore operators still taking bets from U.S. players from operating in the state.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 10 • March 14, 2011

GGB NEWS MARCH 14, 2011

Five For Florida

Florida legislators recently filed a bill to allow five Las Vegas-style casinos throughout the state. The Seminole Tribe of Florida, which operates four casinos in the state, including Tampa’s Hard Rock Casino Hotel (l.), and parimutuels say they'll fight the plan. Most of the large casino companies are said to be active in the state.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Galaxy Opening Announced

With a mid-May opening for Galaxy Entertainment’s new Cotai project, Galaxy Macau, the speculation on what impact it will have on the company and the Macau market has begun. But Galaxy co-chairmen, Francis Lui and his father, Lui Che-woo, are likely to have a huge success on their hands.

Northern Exposure

One of the oldest casinos on the Las Vegas Strip, the Sahara, will close down on May 16, a victim of the recession and its inability to update the property. Owners are evaluating options for the property. And while the Riviera has new owners, its outlook isn’t much brighter.

Ho Feud Settled

The bitter battle between Stanley Ho and members of his family has been settled, but no details have been announced. The feud had impact not only SJM, Ho’s casino company, but also MGM Macau, the company half-owned by daughter Pansy Ho.

 
Fertittas Get Green Valley Ranch; Apollo/TPG Take Aliante 

Two of the former Station Casinos properties were moved last week, proving once again that Frank and Lorenzo Fertitta played the bankruptcy courts like a violin. Not only are they still in charge of most of the casinos that once made up their company, but also they wind up with full ownership of one of its gems, Green Valley Ranch.

Caesars Goes Japanese and International

The older Centurion Tower at Caesars Palace will be converted into a Nobu Hotel, the first of its kind in the world, and include restaurant of the same name. The company will also consider its first Asian operations, non-gaming hotels. And it’ll cost more than expected to add hotel rooms, retail space, and a Ferris wheel to two unfinished Las Vegas Strip projects.

Bally Systems User Conference Sets Record

Hundreds of customers of Bally Technologies’ system division made the eighth Systems User Conference held at the Pechanga resort in California the most successful ever.

Nevada Introduces Online Gaming Bill 

Now that New Jersey’s bill to legalize intrastate online gaming is on hold after a gubernatorial veto, Nevada has gotten into the act with its own version, one backed by PokerStars, one of the online gaming websites that continue to take bets from the U.S., even after the passage of UIGEA.  

 FANTINI’S FINANCE: Uneasy Recovery

While things are looking better across the gaming world, a deeper look reveals that problems still remain and some new issues that may detour any recovery loom ahead.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Gary Loveman, Chairman and CEO, Caesars Entertainment

This week the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Gary Loveman, the chairman and CEO of Caesars Entertainment on how the company has emerged from a difficult economic period and where it is headed in the future.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 9 • March 7, 2011

GGB NEWS MARCH 7, 2011

No Go in Jersey

Governor Chris Christie vetoes a bill that would have permitted intrastate online gaming in New Jersey. His concern about legality and constitutionality includes a desire to give the voters of the state a chance to approve the measure via a referendum. Meanwhile, legislatures in Iowa and California move bills legalizing online poker.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Throwdown in Macau

The SEC announces that it is investigating Las Vegas Sands because of allegations made in a lawsuit filed by former Sands China CEO Steve Jacobs. LV Sands says it had previously filed criminal complaints against Jacobs in Macau.

Caesars To Resume Vegas Construction

The official ‘grand opening’ was completed for Marina Bay Sands last week, almost a year after the doors opened last April, with the opening of the integrated resort’s final piece, the ArtScience Museum. But the job isn’t finished, according to Las Vegas Sands Chairman Sheldon Adelson.

One More Week for Christie

It will take $400 million to finish the tower at Caesars Palace, and add on a retail-entertainment plaza along the Las Vegas Strip between the Flamingo and Imperial Palace.

 
 Northern Ireland Revisiting Gambling Laws 

Northern Ireland is embarking on a process to review all of its laws relating to gambling, directed by Minister for Social Development Alex Attwood. Although not considered likely, even the possibility of introducing casinos will be addressed.

Ameristar Buys Late Founder’s Shares

Ameristar Casinos has forged an agreement with the foundation set up by the late founder, Craig Neilsen that controls most of the gaming company’s shares to buy the 26 million shares and make them available to investors.

Record Visitor Arrivals for Singapore

Regulators approve takeover of debt-laden Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas by Brookfield Asset Management and Warner Gaming LLC.

Obama Supports “Carcieri Fix”

President Obama supports a legislative solution to the Supreme Court decision that has put the brakes on many attempts by tribes to put land into federal trust, according to White House advisor on Indian affairs, Kimberly TeeHee. 

Penn Takes Rosecroft Reins; May Divest Jockey Club

Penn National Gaming is reportedly considering selling its stake in the Maryland Jockey Club to concentrate on bringing slots to newly purchased Rosecroft Raceway.

British Columbia Casino Blitz

Proponents of the Edgewater Casino expansion in Vancouver, British Columbia, opened a public relations campaign last week to combat unfounded accusations by opponents of the expansion.

FireKeepers Will Open Hotel In 2012

An 8-story, 242-room, 100,000 square foot hotel will be added to the FireKeepers Casino property in Battle Creek, Michigan. The hotel will open in 2012.

Galaxy, TableMAX to Combine

A new definitive agreement will give Galaxy worldwide rights to the TableMAX e-Table platform, which will add electronic tables to the live table-game supplier’s products. The combination will propel Galaxy into a position as industry leaders, says CEO Robert Saucier.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Two Sides of the Same Coin

There recently has been a series of good news and bad news situations for gaming investors. We’ll break down what it means and how to use your money most wisely.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Jan Jones, Senior Vice President, Communications and Government Affairs, Caesars Entertainment

This week the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Jan Jones, the senior vice president of communications and government affairs for Caesars Entertainment on what role good corporate citizenship plays when lobbying for expanded gaming.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 8 • February 28, 2011

GGB NEWS FEBRUARY 28, 2011

New Day in Nassau

The groundbreaking for Baha Mar, the only mega-resort project in the Western Hemisphere, marks a milestone for tourism in the Bahamas. Chairman and CEO Sarkis Izmirlian was joined by distinguished guests, including Chinese VIP dignitaries, at the groundbreaking ceremony.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Interior Kills Catskills Casino

The $560 million Stockbridge casino that would have come about after an agreement with former New York Governor David Patterson ends at the federal level—and revives a New York land claim by the Wisconsin tribe of Mohicans.

‘Mission Accomplished’

The official ‘grand opening’ was completed for Marina Bay Sands last week, almost a year after the doors opened last April, with the opening of the integrated resort’s final piece, the ArtScience Museum. But the job isn’t finished, according to Las Vegas Sands Chairman Sheldon Adelson.

One More Week for Christie

A quirk in New Jersey law gives Governor Christ Christie another week to consider the state’s online gaming bill. Some are speculating that he will decide to at least conditionally veto the bill and send it back to the legislature for changes.

 
 MGM China IPO Delayed?

Conflicting reports continue to surface questioning whether MGM Resorts will immediately issue its initial public offering on its Macau ventures or will delay it because of the uncertainty over the distribution of the shares of Stanley Ho in SJM, where Ho daughter and MGM partner Pansy Ho is playing a key role.

Sands’ ‘Euro-Vegas’

Las Vegas Sands’ Sheldon Adelson proposes a massive casino resort in Spain that he says would be a ‘mini-Vegas” and would create 180,000 jobs.

New Owners at Hard Rock Vegas

Regulators approve takeover of debt-laden Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas by Brookfield Asset Management and Warner Gaming LLC.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Don Robinson, President, Baha Mar Ltd.

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Don Robinson, the president of Baha Mar Ltd, the company building the multi-billion dollar gaming resort in the Bahamas.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 7 • February 21, 2011

GGB NEWS FEBRUARY 21, 2011

Atlantic City Looking Up

The stalled Revel project gets funding and will resume construction, while Trump Marina is bought by Landry’s, which plans to transform the building into the Golden Nugget Atlantic City, returning a beloved brand to the seaside gaming destination.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Dan Lee Gets Even?

The Mojito Pointe project of former Pinnacle executive Dan Lee and his group wins the 15^th and final gaming license in Louisiana for a $400 million project in Lake Charles.

Taiwan Commissions Integrated Resort Study

February 17 is fast approaching—the date when Louisiana will name the recipient of its 15^th and final gaming license. Will it be William Trotter’s St. Gabriel Downs LLC, Daniel Lee’s Creative Casinos LLC or Penn National Gaming? The license became available when Pinnacle Entertainment scrapped its Sugarcane Bay casino in Lake Charles and surrendered the license.

 
Hawaii Legislators Consider Legalized Gambling

One Hawaiian House committee is considering a bill to allow video poker and slots in select casinos sites along Waikiki Beach. Another passed a bill that allows gaming aboard 1,000-passenger ships sailing among the islands.

Hull U.K. Greenlights Casino

The first of eight large casino licenses stipulated in the U.K. Gambling Act 2005 has been awarded to Apollo Resorts & Leisure. The city of Hull can now proceed with a major redevelopment project.

Caesars, Barrière Join Forces for WSOPE

The World Series of Poker Europe is moving out of London and into France. The move sees U.S.-based Caesars Entertainment Corporation and France’s Lucien Barrière group entering into a cooperation that could have huge implications for the future.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Doing the Simple Things

Glamorous growth strategies that open new properties every year or expand into new jurisdictions are nice, but when you get right down to it, a casino company must operate efficiently to create value for the shareholders.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Katrina Lane, Chief Technology Officer, Caesars Entertainment

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features a discussion with Katrina Lane, the chief technology officer for Caesars Entertainment on how marketing and technology go hand in hand when implementing Total Rewards programs and social media.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 5 • February 7, 2011

GGB NEWS FEBRUARY 7, 2011

Atlantic City Renaissance

Last week, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie signed legislation at an event on the Boardwalk that will create a state-run tourism district in Atlantic City and overhaul casino regulations. He was also instrumental in securing a $261 million tax break to complete the stalled Revel project, where the ceremony was held.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Iowa Increase?

In his recent recommended state budget, Iowa Governor Terry Branstad proposed increasing casino taxes from 22 percent to 36 percent, to raise $200 million that could cut corporate taxes in half. “I don’t believe the budget will survive in the form he presented,” said Senate Majority Leader Mike Gronstal. “It’s outrageous. I’m going to fight it pretty hard.”

Dutch to Weigh Privatization

The next European casino monopoly to fall could be that of Holland Casino. The current Dutch government, a coalition that took four months to form following June 2010 elections, appears ready to push for privatization and liberalization of all the nation’s gaming sectors.

Outcry in Albany

Opponents of the proposed Stockbridge Munsee casino in New York State took their case to the capitol last week. The Wisconsin tribal Chairwoman Kimberly Vele and fans of the project, including labor organizations, also testified.

Ohio Caesars Casinos Broke Ground Last Week

Ohio’s four regional casinos are starting to become a reality. Last week, the two Caesars Entertainment/Rock Gaming casinos broke ground in Cleveland and Cincinnati. Caesars CEO Gary Loveman says the casinos will be Horseshoe branded.

Ho Troubles Continue

Despite a television interview two weeks ago in which Stanley Ho disavowed any legal actions against his children who he accused of “hijacking” his company, the threat is again on the table. Ho wants his shares returned before dropping his lawsuit.

Hard Rock Fights Foreclosure

Lender lawsuit could put property on the block this week, possibly selling it to the highest bidder on the courthouse steps. The lenders say they have lined up the Navegante Group to manage the operations should they take over. The property includes a new tower just opened within the past year.

Arasi Leaves Marina Bay Sands

Arasi, the president of the Las Vegas Sands’ successful Singapore project steps down to spend “more time with his family.” Joining the property as interim president is George Tanasijevich, and former Trump CEO Mark Juliano will join the casino team.

Penn National Buys Rosecroft

Penn National Gaming submitted the winning bid in the bankruptcy auction for the shuttered Maryland racetrack, Rosecroft Raceway, beating out Baltimore Orioles owner Peter Angelos.

Bellagio Robber Caught

Las Vegas police last week arrested a suspect in the brazen December robbery of more than $1 million in chips from a Bellagio craps table. And where did the arrest take place? The Bellagio!

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Slot Shake Up

The once-understandable world of slot manufacturers is now a collection of impressive technology companies that provide state-of-the-art products and services to casino owners.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Katrina Lane, Chief Technology Officer, Caesars Entertainment

This week the Global Gaming Business Podcast features and interview with Katrina Lane, the chief technology officer for Caesars Entertainment on how the company plans to grow and refine the Total Rewards program.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 4 • January 31, 2011

GGB NEWS JANUARY 31, 2011

Family Fued

The family of Stanley Ho is at it again. After the 89-year-old Ho complained about the efforts of his wives and children to “steal” his companies, he appears on television to say he was OK with a deal he made to distribute most of business holdings, including his massive casino company, SJM. Joining him on the TV interview were third wife, Ina Chan and their daughter Florinda Ho.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Solid Ice

Thousands of visitors toured the exhibits of the ICE Totally Gaming trade show in London, Europe’s largest casino industry trade event, with new conference content and expanded i-gaming exhibitors. Most of the casino exhibitors brought new product to the table, including Casino Technology, which signed a licensing deal with Penthouse magazine.

Illinois Disappoints—Again

As lawmakers once again take up the issue of gaming expansion in Illinois, an appeals court has struck down the 2009 law that would have allowed as many as 65,000 VLTs to be deployed in bars, restaurants and truck stops.

Revel Close to Funding for Atlantic City Project Completion

The unfinished Revel Entertainment casino in Atlantic City is closer to receiving enough funding to complete at least part of the hotel and setting up an opening date. In a proposed funding plan, the original investors would be bought out for much less than their original investment.

Hawaii Lawmakers Consider Gaming Expansion

Former Governor Linda Lingle adamantly opposed any pro-gambling legislation. But newly elected Governor Neil Abercrombie said he will not rule out gambling as a potential revenue source. One suggestion is for a single casino in Waikiki.

Michigan AG Joins Lawsuit to Shut Down Casino

Now both the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians and Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette are suing in federal court to shut down a casino they say was illegally opened in Vanderbilt.

German Parties Urge Privatization of Bavarian Casinos

The state-owned casinos in Bavaria, Germany continue to bleed red ink, including the Luitpold Casino in Bad Kissingen. There is growing political will to privatize the nine suffering properties.

Miami Commissioners: No Gaming On Beach

Miami commissioners unanimously voted to ask state lawmakers to stop discussing trying to bring Las Vegas-style casino resorts to their city, especially to the trendy South Beach area. In the meantime, Governor Rick Scott has been giving mixed signals.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Selling Gaming as Entertainment

Arguments that convenience gambling can produce millions in tax revenue miss the point. Descriptions of gaming as entertainment centers, infrastructure improvers and job creators make a better and more logical case.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 3 • January 24, 2011

GGB NEWS JANUARY 24, 2011

Jamaica Jump

After several months of silence, the Jamaican government is starting to talk about three casino licenses, one in Montego Bay, to be offered over the next three years, with the first anticipated in 2011. The casino commission is ready to take applications for large integrated resorts.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Belle Eyes PAGCOR

Huge Philippine company is interested in buying the assets of PAGCOR. Controlled by billionaire Henry Sy, the company is already involved with a casino in PAGCOR’s Entertainment City in Manila, which will open by the end of the year.

Deleware Again Examines Expansion

A bill being drafted by the state House Majority Leader Pete Schwartzkopf would give Delaware two new casinos, an effort likely to be fought by the three existing racinos.

Cuomo Inherits Paterson's Problems

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo faces fallout from Mohican deal inked by his predecessor. He must also collect overdue revenues from a tribe that claims the government breached its compact.

Massachusetts Governor Conciliatory on Casinos

Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick and House Speaker Robert DeLeo were both making conciliatory noises last week that might indicate some movement is possible on a gaming bill this year in the legislature.

Vancouver Could OK Mega-Casino

Proposed project at the Vancouver’s stadium would include 1,500 slots and be the largest overall gaming-based development in Western Canada.

Florida Officials Sending Mixed Gaming Signals

The governor and the state legislature are carefully dancing around the issue of expanded gaming in Florida. While there is support for gaming, opposition can be expected from the Seminoles, the family attractions around Orlando, particularly Disney, and the Bible Belt northern panhandle.

ALSO:

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Doni Taube, Senior Vice President, Global Gaming Marketing Strategy, MGM Resorts International

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features a discussion with Doni Taube, the senior vice president of global gaming marketing strategy for MGM Resorts International on how the company is using unique techniques to align with strategic marketing partners throughout the world.

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Housing: Hiccup Or Double Dip?

Casino stock prices take time to cool off after a long run of positive news boosted the value. But the fear of a renewed recession still leaves some wondering what’s next.

McDowell Promoted at Isle of Capri Casinos

Virginia McDowell was named chief executive officer and James Perry was named executive chairman at the Creve Coeur, Missouri-based regional casino company. McDowell becomes the only female chief executive among the nation’s major casino companies.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 2 • January 17, 2011

GGB NEWS JANUARY 17, 2011

ATLANTIC CITY RENAISSANCE

Bills to create a tourism district and reduce regulatory costs pass the state legislature with much support. But a few amendments may cause Governor Chris Christie, who last July called for legislation to revive Atlantic City, veto parts of each bill.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Coming Up Lame in Illinois

The Illinois legislature ended its lame duck session without adopting a gaming bill expansion, which includes slots at racetracks like Arlington Park. However, the issue is likely to reemerge in the new session that just began, but a different group of lawmakers may come to the same conclusion.

Intra Jersey Approved

New Jersey becomes the first state in the U.S. to legalize intra-state online gaming, but the bill awaits the governor’s signature. While the way forward is not clear, it is unlikely to be challenged by the federal government because no bets would be accepted from any client outside state borders.

Florida Lawmakers Consider Casino Gambling

State senators hear from Las Vegas developers who would like to build in the state, after new Governor Rick Scott meets with Las Vegas Sands Chairman Sheldon Adelson. The Seminole Tribe, operators of the Hard Rock Hollywood Casino Resort (l.), already owns seven casinos and recently signed a five-year compact with the state.

Adelson: Take Those Sites and Shove Them

At an investment conference in Las Vegas, Sheldon Adelson (l.), the chairman and CEO of Las Vegas Sands, tells investors he’s willing to give up sites 7 and 9 in Macau, along with other gems.

Foxwoods Philly Seeks Secons Chance

The partners in the Foxwoods Philadelphia project, including Stephen Cozen, have petitioned the state gaming board to reconsider its decision stripping the partnership of its license.

New York Racinos: Undo Catskills Deal

Racino operators appeal to recently inaugurated New York Governor Andrew Cuomo to toss out the compact between former Governor David Paterson and a Wisconsin tribe, claiming that it will put them out of business, especially the successful Monticello racetrack, which would be located closest to the tribal gaming hall.

ALSO:

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Christino “Bong” Naguiat, Chairman, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR)

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Christino “Bong” Naguiat, the chairman of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), on his experience since taking over the government-owned casino company.

Issue : Vol. 9 • No. 1 • January 10, 2011

COVER

Florida Back on Casino Radar

The new governor of Florida, Rick Scott (l.), sees the chance to create thousands of jobs and major tourist attractions by considering the introduction of Las Vegas-style casinos in the state’s tourism districts. During the campaign, Scott was opposed to expanded gaming.

WEEKLY FEATURE

Will They or Won’t They?

A bill passed by the Illinois Senate that would allow five new casinos, more slots at existing casinos and Chicago-area airports and would allow racetracks to add slots is now being mulled in the House as the last days of the lame-duck session approach, but the taste for more gaming seems to be dropping. But even if it passed, Governor Pat Quinn (l.) may not sign it.

FEATURES

Macau Sets Record

With the release of the December revenue figures, the Macau gaming industry set yet another record and shattering last year’s numbers by more than 50 percent, proving yet again that the center of the gaming universe has shifted far to the East.

Steve Wynn Joins Monaco-Qatar JV

Steve Wynn is becoming an “outside director” of a joint venture between the governments of Monaco and Qatar. That in itself would be enough to rev up the rumor mill, but the announcement that HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco has granted Wynn Monaco citizenship has kicked things into overdrive.

Christie Goes Boutique

New Jersey Governor Chris Christie (l.) changes his mind and approves a bill that allows two “boutique” casinos in Atlantic City, starting the clock on a possible announcement by Hard Rock International. Meanwhile, changes in other bills designed to aid Atlantic City were under way.

Fine Point Group Named to Run New Mexico Casinos

The financially challenged Buffalo Thunder Casino Resort in Santa Fe, New Mexico, has been turned over to the Fine Point Group to turn the property around, besting several other prominent management companies.

Goldstein Promoted at Las Vegas Sands

Rob Goldstein, the very capable and longtime president of the Venetian and Palazzo in Las Vegas, has been elevated to president of global gaming operations for Las Vegas Sands.

Major Merger Online

The merger between PartyGaming and bwin will result in online gaming’s largest company. With a new name and new brand, the company expects to become the dominant organization in the field. But it surely won’t be the last merger in the online sector.

Singapore Casinos Look for Strong 2011

With surprisingly high revenues for the portion of 2010 that they were open, the Singapore casinos are geared up for an even better 2011.

BIA OKs Oregon Indian Casino

The Cowlitz, a landless tribe in Oregon, has been given the go-ahead by the Bureau of Indian Affairs for a casino in La Center.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Michael Leven, President and COO, Las Vegas Sands

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Michael Leven, the president and COO of Las Vegas Sands, on the impressive performance of the company in 2010 and its prospects for the future.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Willy Allison, Organizer, World Game Protection Conference

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an interview with Willy Allison, the producer of the niche conference World Game Protection, scheduled for February 21-23 at the M Resort in Las Vegas.

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 50 • December 27, 2010

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 49 • December 20, 2010

GGB NEWS December 20, 2010

Metropolitan Cosmopolitan

Newest resort in Las Vegas debuted last week, adding nearly 3,000 rooms to the already sated inventory. Owned by an investment bank, the Cosmopolitan overcame many obstacles and will occupy a “luxury” niche already occupied by several leading casinos, including next-door neighbor, the Bellagio.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Pennsylvania Revokes Foxwoods License

Pennsylvania regulators have revoked the gaming license of the troubled Foxwoods Philadelphia projectbefore the project could be saved by Caesars Entertainment.

Peninsula Gaming Wins Kansas License

Kansas has chosen Iowa-based Peninsula Gaming LLC to build its third state-owned casino in the town of Mulvane, 14 miles from Wichita. The $260 million facility will be built no matter if a tribal gaming hall is approved in nearby Oklahoma.

Death in D.C.; Life in N.J.

Harry Reid’s internet poker bill fails to get a hearing and dies, ending the potential for online gaming legalization for the foreseeable future. In New Jersey, a bill that would legalize intrastate online gaming advances, but a vote is put off until after the new year.

ALSO:

Macau: Two Times No

Tabcorp Plans A$625 Million Expansion in Queensland

Ameristar Won’t Sell the Store

Slovenia to Allow Greater Investor Participation

Korea’s Casinos Watching Japan

Atlantic City Legislation Delayed

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Thoughts for the End of the Year

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 48 • December 13, 2010

GGB NEWS December 13, 2010

One Last Chance

Reports that a federal bill to legalize online poker was being prepared swirled around Washington D.C. and Las Vegas last week. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid was reportedly steering the bill but by week’s end nothing had been filed. Online advocates are getting increasingly desperate, as the next Congress, which will convene in January, will be much less friendly to the activity.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Jersey Junk

The bill that would create a tourism zone in Atlantic City operated by the state, not the city, and other benefits for the city’s casino industry are sidelined by the attempts of several North Jersey politicians to include racetrack bailouts in the measures. Atlantic County Senator Jim Whelan is trying to get it passed.

Carcieri Fix Passes House

A bill that would reverse a Supreme Court decision that limited the growth of off-reservation tribal gaming passed the House last week as a rider to a spending bill. Meanwhile, Senator Dianne Feinstein wants to halt all off-reservation gaming. Her “Carcieri fix” includes very strict regulation for taking land into trust for gaming purposes.

Diversity in Macau Bad for Gaming?

Questions about the Macau government’s attitude toward the continued growth of the gaming industry continue to increase. Some analysts point to the failure to provide Sands China with its previously reserved parcels 7 and 8. Chief Executive Fernando Chui has made economic diversification one of the cornerstones of his administration.

ALSO:

Illinois Moves Forward with Gambling Expansion

Australian Slots Regs Now Political Bargaining Chip

Minnesota Looking To Expand Gambling

Tropicana Will Sell Mississippi Riverboat Casino

Sands Falls to Third in Macau

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Two Little Words

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Robert Griffin, President & CEO, Trump Entertainment Resorts

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 47 • December 6, 2010

GGB NEWS December 6, 2010

Isle Shows Missouri

Isle of Capri’s $125 million Cape Girardeau project beat out proposals in St. Louis and Kansas City. The development will feature 1,000 slot machines, 28 table games, three restaurants, a lounge and terrace overlooking the Mississippi River and a 750-seat event center.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Illinois Gouges Gaming Again

The Illinois Senate has passed a bill that would increase the number of casinos in the state by two thirds and allow slot machines at racetracks. The House has yet to weigh in on the issue. The governor, Pat Quinn, is skeptical.

Catcalls for Catskills Plan

New York Governor David Paterson is roundly panned for his decision to tout a tribal casino in Sullivan County. Critics say it could endanger existing casinos and the coming Aqueduct racino.

Sands China Denied Right to Develop Final 2 Macau Parcels

The last two sites that Sands China had planned to develop to complete its Cotai Strip dream were taken away last week when the Macau government refused permission to the company for parcels 7 and 8. Construction on parcels 5 and 6 continues.

ALSO:

Packer Seeks Cooperation from Australian Government

Florida Ruling Could Trigger Gaming Expansion

Pinnacle Buys Ohio’s River Downs Racetrack

House Reps: Reid Has ‘Secret’ Plan for Online Gambling

Gomes Resorts Purchased Approved

Fight Over Fix?

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Weighing the News

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: The Management Team of Bally Technologies

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 46 • November 29, 2010

GGB NEWS November 29, 2010

New Jersey Gaming Facing Major Overhaul

New Jersey Senate Democrats have sponsored legislation to revive Atlantic City, the horseracing industry and revamp casino regulations. But conflicts with the governor’s office have delayed votes on much of the legislation. The 200-room hotel casino bill passed and now awaits the governor’s approval.

FEATURES:

MGM, Asian Coast Show Support for Vietnam Project

Development of the first phase of Vietnam’s $4-billion-plus Ho Tram Strip has finally begun. A visit to the site by the heads of the companies involved—MGM Resorts International, MGM Hospitality and Asian Coast Development—may have helped ease fears that things were not going so well with the funding. Lloyd Nathan, CEO of Asian Coast Development (Canada) Ltd., welcomes James Murren, Chairman and CEO of MGM Resorts International, and Gamal Aziz, CEO of MGM Hospitality.

Harrah’s Now Caesars

Despite the failure of a planned IPO, Harrah’s Entertainment has changed its name and will entertain offers for John Paulson’s piece of the company. Gary Loveman, Caesars CEO, says the name change will open up opportunities for the company.

Debate Builds over Catskills Deal

New York Governor David Paterson has cut a land-swap deal that will let a Wisconsin tribe build a casino resort in the Catskills. But the impact on racing and racinos is questioned in many quarters.

ALSO:

Senator Feinstein Works with BIA on Off Reservation Gaming

Cleveland Gets First Peek At New Casino

County Approval for Ireland’s First Large Casino Resort

Study Accuses Crown Australia of Negligence, Violations

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Final Thoughts From G2E

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 45 • November 22, 2010

GGB NEWS November 22, 2010

G2E Displays Future of Casino Floor

The exhibits at G2E 2010 showcase how casino games are changing for the better, and how control and monitoring of the games is being boosted by new technology. It was the last G2E to be held in November and the last at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

FEATURES:

Jersey Jams

Legislation that will restructure the gaming and racing industry in New Jersey proceeds through the state legislature, but not without controversy as the governor proposes shutting down racing at the Meadowlands.

Harrah’s Cancels IPO

Bad market conditions cited by the company for the termination of the IPO after several analysts warn of high risks and the GM IPO overshadows it. How this will affect expansion plans at Caesars Palace (l.), as well as a name change for the company, are unknown.

Dark Clouds Drift Over Macau

The Chinese government indicates it will tighten the supply of tables and slots while doing the same with the nation’s money supply, which may impact the VIP market in Macau.

ALSO:

Casino in the Catskills?

Lame Duck Illinois Pols Look at Gaming Expansion

New Jersey Online Bill Questioned

Irish Lawmakers Clearing the Way for Casinos

California Casino Opens Boutique Hotel

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 44 • November 15, 2010

GGB NEWS November 15, 2010

Top 10 at G2E

The largest and most important annual trade show and conference debuts this week in Las Vegas. The 10th anniversary of the Global Gaming Expo is expected to attract more than 25,000 attendees to view the latest products and services available to casinos and also consider some of the pressing issues that will confront the industry in 2011 and beyond.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Hail Caesars

The IPO that Harrah’s Entertainment announced last month will bring almost $500 million to the company and a new name: Caesars Entertainment.

Sri Lanka Passes Gaming Bill

Sri Lanka is the latest south Asian nation to legalize casinos. Situated off the southern tip of India and 1,700 miles from Singapore, the former war-torn island is looking to grow its tourism industry with gaming.

Illinois Tracks Pin Hopes on Slots

Racing industry reps want slots at tracks, but Illinois Governor Pat Quinn says gambling is not the path to prosperity. Is Quinn serious? Some question his commitment to no gaming expansion if there is money to balance the state budget in it.

ALSO:

Russian Gambling Zone Moves to Populated Area

Michigan Tribe Reflects on What Went Wrong With Greektown

Macau Hitting Records, Bracing For Problems

Pascal Out at Wynn

Davenport Moving Ahead with Downtown Casino

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Tenor of the Times

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: National Indian Gaming Commission Chairwoman Tracie Stevens and Commissioner Dan Little

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 43 • November 8, 2010

GGB NEWS November 8, 2010

Election Success

Gaming fared well during the U.S. mid-term elections, held last week. Although it was a Republican sweep in the House, the Democrats retained the Senate and gaming-friendly Majority Leader Harry Reid retained his seat for another six years. Gaming was a winner almost everywhere it was on the ballot, but some of the incoming Republicans may put a damper on the legalization of online gaming.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Finding Fiji

The government of Fiji is looking for someone to step up and build and operate a casino in this South Pacific tourist paradise. Any interested parties will have to consider the potential controversy they could face, given Fiji’s complicated stature in a couple of major areas.

CityCenter Continues to Dog MGM Resorts

Now that one of the leading banks that originally financed its CityCenter project has sold its share of the debt, MGM Resorts must refinance $1.8 billion by next year or risk default. Nancy Rubin’s “Big Edge” sculpture in front of the Vdara Hotel.

PAGCOR Under Fire Again

Revelations that the Philippine gaming company acquired more than 60 condos under the leadership of former chairman, Efraim Genuino, draws the attention of a powerful senator, Miriam Defensor Santiago.

ALSO:

New Leadership

Butera Leaves Tropicana, Joins Foxwoods

Illinois Legislature Mulls Racino at Arlington Park

New Jersey Considers Exchange Wagering

Wynn Visits India

Louisiana Eyes Last Gaming License

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Investor Election

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 42 • November 1, 2010

GGB NEWS November 1, 2010

Harrah’s Philly

Harrah’s Entertainment will take over Foxwoods Philadelphia project as one-third partner and operator, replacing the Mashantucket Pequot tribe. The final design is expected to be completely different than the former grandiose plans of the Pequots (l.).

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Mid-Term Mayhem

While the results of the 2010 mid-term elections in the U.S. will have an impact on the direction of the Obama administration, gaming will also feel a real effect in many states and in the Congressional results. One of the most crucial races for gaming features the survival of Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid.

Genting Breaks Ground in the Big Apple

And they're off. Malaysian gaming giant Genting has officially begun construction of Resorts World at Aqueduct racetrack in Queens. It will be the first gaming hall inside New York City. New York Governor David Patterson and Genting Chairman K.T. Lim smash cement blocks at the ceremony . At the same time, a report by the inspector general finds major irregularities in the selection process that preceded the Genting victory.

Strong Reports From Las Vegas Sands Cause Surge

Higher-than-expected revenues in both Singapore and Macau last week gave gaming stocks with an Asian connection a boost, particularly Las Vegas Sands and Sands China that began the rush with their third quarter reports. Marina Bay Sands  performed especially well.

ALSO:

€26 Million Project for Luxembourg Casino 2000

Illinois Lawmakers May Expand Gaming After Election

Penn National: Swap Perryville for Laurel?

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Sounding the All Clear?

Analysts Applaud Debt Reduction

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 41 • October 25, 2010

GGB NEWS October 25, 2010

Public Possibilities

Harrah’s Entertainment has requested permission to do an initial public offering that would raise almost $600 million. Much of the proceeds would go toward building two future casinos in Ohio that it acquired via a joint venture with the NBA Cleveland Cavaliers owner Jeff Gilbert, as well as investment in Las Vegas.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Money For Something

The Atlantic City casinos last week pledged $30 million to help revive the town, part of Governor Chris Christie public-private partnership. Meanwhile, the governor’s declaration that Jersey racetracks must run without help from the state or its casinos has fallen on deaf ears when it comes to state Democrats.

Pinnacle Buys Ohio Racetrack?

Anticipating a positive move to permit VLTs at state racetracks, Pinnacle Entertainment is expected to become the latest gaming company to buy one of the tracks, River Downs, outside of Cincinnati.

Genting Joins with Private Company to Develop U.K. Casino

Malaysia’s Genting and a private U.K. resort development company plan to build a large casino near the site of the 2012 Summer Games, but it won’t open until after the games are completed. The Olympic Stadium  will be near the casino.

Company Looking for Manila Operator

Belle Corp. and majority owner Henry Sy, the developers of one of the sites at PAGCOR’s Entertainment City in Manila, is looking to close a deal to operate a casino that it’s planning.

ALSO:

 Second New York Tribe Halts Casino Payments

Industry Veterans Join Zest Gaming

Tabcorp Demerges

Borgata Bidder Revealed

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Cathy Walker, President & CEO, Seneca Gaming

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 40 • October 18, 2010

GGB NEWS October 18, 2010

Borgata Bonus

MGM Resorts last week said it had received an offer of $250 million for its half-interest in Atlantic City’s Borgata. The company did not identify the bidder but the property’s co-owner, Boyd Gaming, as the right of first refusal. Meanwhile, MGM Resorts makes more moves designed to reduce its huge debt.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Mall Melee

Singapore Continues To Soar

More than 5 million visits to Marina Bay Sands translates to huge profits, and government continues to focus on harm minimization. And several high rollers are unlucky, pumping millions into the coffers of the city’s two casinos.

Penn National’s Bet

The purchase of the debt of Las Vegas’ M Resort by Penn National Gaming may turn out to be a stroke of genius, some analysts say. CEO Anthony Marnell III says he wants to play a role in the new management.

Pay Up, Paterson Tells Senecas

New York tribe offers to pay casino revenues directly to the communities that host its three casinos, instead of the state, which the Indians say has broken the tribal compact. Governor David Paterson rejects tribe’s compromise offer.

ALSO:

The Two Tropicanas Battle On

Sun International Partner Jockeying for Better Position in South Africa

Shinnecocks Prevail in Court

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 39 • October 11, 2010

GGB NEWS October 11, 2010

Penn National M-Marvelous

Mid-America company gets its first Las Vegas property as it purchases M Resort from the debtors, the Royal Bank of Scotland for $230 million. The property was built for just under $900 million by the Marnell family.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Hoping for Better in the Bahamas

Hard Rock Eyes AC

The famous name could be in lights above the Atlantic City Boardwalk as New Jersey lawmakers ponder smaller, 'boutique-style' casino hotels. Hard Rock President Jim Allen  says his company is looking to build new to attract new players.

Another ‘Carcieri Fix’ Considered

California Senator Dianne Feinstein has proposed a new “fix” for the Supreme Court’s Carcieri decision at the same time the Bureau of Indian Affairs is holding consultations on the “land into trust” issues.

Paterson, Senecas Set for Showdown

The Seneca Nation in western New York state has ceased payments to the state, causing Governor David Paterson to threaten the revocation of its gaming compact.

ALSO:

11 Arrested in Alabama

MGM Resorts Issues New Diversity Report

Revenue Climb Slows in Macau

Chen Leaves Harrah’s

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Beginning of the End?

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 38 • October 4, 2010

GGB NEWS October 4, 2010

Casinos Come to Maryland

Penn National Gaming has opened the Hollywood Casino Perryville, the first slot casino in Maryland, on Interstate 95 40 miles north of Baltimore.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: The Lion Roars

Missouri Might Wait on 13th Casino License

The issuing of the 13th and last casino license for Missouri is not a sure thing, according to the chairman of the Missouri Gaming Commission.

Casino Resort Opens on Cambodia-Vietnam Border

Cambodia is experiencing a round of small to medium casino resort openings of late. The latest is a $50 million property on the border with Vietnam, the Ha Tien Vegas Casino & Hotel in Kampot.

Southwest Connection

The purchase by Southwest Airlines of Atlanta-based AirTran will have some positive effects on the two largest gaming jurisdictions in the United States.

ALSO:

Juliano Leaving Trump; Griffin Named CEO

Melco Crown Debuts High-Powered Show

Feds, Tribes Discuss Off Reservation Casino

Genting Pays Up for Aqueduct

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Dennis Gomes, President, Gomes Gaming

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 37 • September 27, 2010

GGB NEWS September 27, 2010

SugarHouse Opens

After a long and often-difficult journey, Philadelphia’s first casino opens as throngs of players vie to be among the first to play. (l. to r.) Wendy Hamilton, General Manager, Sugarhouse Casino; Greg Carlin, CEO, Rush Street Gaming; Neil Bluhm, Owner; and "Ben Franklin" prepare to “unlock” the front door.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Frank Bill Doomed

Penn Goes Texas

Penn National Gaming buys pieces of three parimutuel tracks in Texas in hopes that the state legislature will revisit gaming legalization in the next session that begins in January.

Pequot Problems

Foxwoods Casino is not setting a good example as far as lenders are concerned. Many worry that the Indian casino’s defaulting on some of its interest payments and delay in paying other payments could be a harbinger for other Indian casinos. Former Pequot Chairman Michael Thomas says “my people are not equity.”

U.S. Eyes Macau Problems

As more American companies become involved in Macau, the U.S. government plans to meet with them to discuss some of the other “issues” outside of the huge gaming revenues. Consul General Stephen Young  has been having an ongoing dialogue with U.S. companies and Macau officials.

ALSO:

Will Golden Nugget Return to AC?

Crunch Time for Canadian Casino

Dan Lee to Bid on Lake Charles Casino

Penn National Maryland Opening On

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Warren Buffett Holds On To Recession

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Jamie Odell, Chief Executive Officer, Aristocrat Technologies

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 36 • September 20, 2010

GGB NEWS September 20, 2010

Buyers Market

Three small Mid-American casinos change hands. While there is no connection between the three sales, experts wonder whether these transactions indicate that a “value” for casinos is starting to be established. Churchill Downs entered the casino industry with the purchase of Mississippi’s Harlow’s Casino Resort (above).

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Illinois Video Poker Delayed

Aqueduct A Done Deal

Last-minute concerns are resolved as New York state Controller Thomas DiNapoli signs off on the deal with Genting NY LLC, which now must pony up $380 million in upfront fees.

MGM Names No. 2

The vacant chief operating officer position at MGM Resorts have been filled after two years with a longtime company executive, Corey Sanders. Meanwhile, the company moved executives around to fill some other vacancies.

Bus Wars in Singapore

ALSO:

NIGC Again Delays Class II MICS Start

With Plaza’s Fate Unknown, 400 Employees Cut

Lucien Barriere IPO Is Go

Gaming Down, Tourism Up in Vegas

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Déjà Vu All Over Again

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Jeff Hook, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Seminole Gaming

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 35 • September 13, 2010

GGB NEWS September 13, 2010

Battle of Titans Looms

Macau’s SJM expresses interest in the final two undeveloped tracts in the Las Vegas Sands plans for the Cotai Strip. The confrontation may pit Macau’s two most powerful casino operators, Sheldon Adelson and Stanley Ho, against each other.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Dead and Buried

G2E Moves Location, Dates; Eyes Europe

In an effort to consider strategies of its exhibitors, Global Gaming Expo has announced that, starting next year, the industry’s largest trade show and conference would be located at the Sands Expo Center in Las Vegas and presented at least six weeks earlier, in mid October. Officials gathered at the Venetian Las Vegas on August 31 to announce the change. And reports out of Europe indicate that the organizers are considering a show there, as well.

Canadian Provinces On-Lining Up

The start and restart of online gaming by British Columbia has spurred a wave of interest among the other Canadian provinces. But questions remain as to the ability of government-owned entities to hold onto their clients—and their profits—once new players discover the larger online gaming universe.

Four Plans Left for Missouri’s Final License

ALSO:

LV Sands: Macau Construction Delays No Big Deal
Mickey Brown Out at Empire
E.U. Says German, Austrian Laws Not Compliant
GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Jim Allen, Chairman, Hard Rock International
In New York, ‘Concerns’ About Genting
Blackberry Betting
FANTINI’S FINANCE: Go Against the Flow

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 34 • August 30, 2010

GGB NEWS August 30, 2010

Go-Go Gomes

High-energy casino executive Dennis Gomes buys Resorts Atlantic City in a deal that could mean as much for the city as it will for the troubled hotel. Few details on the deal are available, but some experts speculate that he paid less than $50 million for the property.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: House of Cards in Saipan

Worker Shortage Hurts Macau Development

A shortage of construction workers due to the Macau government’s restrictions on foreign employees has delayed the completion of a Las Vegas Sands project (parcels 5 and 6) and threatens Galaxy Entertainment’s Cotai Strip development.

Developer Buys Land for Cleveland Temp Casino

The development company that has the right to build a casino in Cleveland has agreed to buy 16 acres near the city’s Tower City Center that would be used for the permanent casino. He has also purchased another building to serve as a temporary casino while the permanent one is built.

Reid’s Lead

ALSO:

Cosmopolitan Joins Team Marriott
FANTINI’S FINANCE: China: A Bubble To Burst?
Barbados Association Opposed to Casinos
Aristocrat Names New Chairman
Gaming Working for Singapore
GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Reese Palley, Former Atlantic City Businessman

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 33 • August 23, 2010

GGB NEWS August 23, 2010

Russia Reconsiders

Alexander Tkachyov (l.), the governor of Russia’s only active gaming zone wants to move the action to an established Black Sea resort. But authorities in the neighboring region, which shares stewardship of the current zone, is opposing any change.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: M Resort on Block in Vegas

PAGCOR: Expansion Before Privatization

The chairman of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), Cristino Naguiat, says the corporation’s Entertainment City resort complex in Manila will go forward and that he’s also considering integrated resorts in other cities.

Profitable Gaming Tribe Takes Roll as Banker

When banks turn them down for financing, the court of last resort for many Indian gaming tribes is the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux of Minnesota, owners of the Mystic Lake Casino, who have loaned over $200 million in the last two years to fellow tribes.

Genting’s Alleged Double-Dealing

ALSO:

LV Sands Leven Opens Up
Triple Threat Killing Irish Clubs
First Woman Leads Mohegan Tribe in 300 Years
FANTINI’S FINANCE: Fire Sale

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 32 • August 16, 2010

GGB NEWS August 16, 2010

Harrah’s To Operate 2 Ohio Casinos

Harrah’s Entertainment was selected last week by casino developer Rock Gaming to operate two casinos in Cleveland and Cincinnati. Rock Gaming, controlled by the NBA’s Cleveland Cavaliers owner Jeff Gilbert, received one of the two licenses available in Ohio.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: PAGCOR Going Private?

Philippine businessman offers $10 billion for the PAGCOR casinos, as the nation’s new president, Benigno Aquino III, ponders the sins of the previous administration and the privatization of the federally owned corporation. PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Cristino L. Naguiat, Jr. is currently investigating licenses and contracts entered into in the past 10 years.

Genting Posts Astounding Singapore Numbers

The casino owned by Genting Bhd in Singapore, Resorts World Sentosa, has blown all revenue estimates out of the water with its second quarter report.

A Third Try for Kansas’s Sumner County

Kansas is trying for a third time to pick a developer to build and operate a state-owned casino in Sumner County. Last week the county commission heard from three applicants.

Feds Prefer Cascade Locks, Oregon for Casino

ALSO:

Ameristar Up For Sale

Reid Key to Passage of Online Gaming Bill

Parrott to Hall of Fame

Australia’s Tabcorp Shifts Focus to Casinos

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Group Hug

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Rob Wyre, General Manager, Isle of Capri Casino and Pompano Park Racetrack

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 31 • August 9, 2010

GGB NEWS August 9, 2010

Stars to Shine in Manila?

Harrah’s Entertainment is rumored to be in the final stages of an agreement with a Philippine company to manage a “Planet Hollywood” casino in the Entertainment City resort development in Manila.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Genting Gets Aqueduct

Genting, the Malaysian company that operates Genting Highlands near Kuala Lumpur, which stood alone in the last round of bidding for the Aqueduct racetrack casino, gets the thumbs-up from the New York Lottery Division.

Massachusetts Gaming Bill In Coma

Gaming in Massachusetts appears dead for this year after a face-off between Governor Deval Patrick and the legislature left a gaming bill requiring CPR by special session to revive it.

Fertittas Approved in Station Buyout

With the withdrawal of Boyd Gaming in late July as a bidder for a group of properties owned by bankrupt Station Casinos, a proposal from the Fertitta brothers was the highest bid. An August 27 court hearing could turn the former Station Casinos over to them and their lenders.

Tabcorp Adds to Star City Improvement

The rivalry with Australian casino operator Crown is one driving force behind the latest additional commitment by Tabcorp to upgrade its Sydney casino. Another is the need to replace a few hundred million in revenue from non-casino operations that will be gone in a couple of years.

ALSO:

Gaming Summit Convened in New Jersey

Frank Bill: Prospects Dim

Former NIGC Chief Predicts More Corruption for Indian Gaming

Good News, Bad News for MGM, Harrah’s

Leading Technology Awards to be presented at G2E

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 30 • August 2, 2010

GGB NEWS August 2, 2010

Frank Forward

A committee of the U.S. House of Representatives has approved an online gambling bill introduced by its chairman, Rep. Barney Frank, that would legalize, tax and regulate online gaming in the United States. The bill favors U.S. land-based casino companies, as well as operators who have abided by the American ban on net wagering.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Bay State Battle

Massachusetts politicians reach a compromise on the proposed casino bill, but a measure to approve slots at two state racetracks likely dooms the bill to a veto. House Speaker Robert DeLeo and Governor Deval Patrick are the key players.

Shakeup In Macau

Two rival properties change leaders as competition heats up on the Cotai Strip. Greg Hawkins exits City of Dreams and Steve Jacobs gets fired from Sands China and its Macau properties.

Showdown in New Jersey

Lawmakers call for a summit to assess Governor Chris Christie’s recently disclosed agenda, which would restrict gaming to Atlantic City and mandate state oversight of the island resort. At left, Christie addresses a press conference announcing his plans while the city’s movers and shakers look on.

PartyGaming, Bwin Merge

Combination of two powerhouses will create online gaming’s largest company, dominating the poker, casino, sports betting and bingo spaces. Jim Ryan, PartyGaming CEO, will share CEO duties in the new company with Bwin head Norbert Teufelberger.

ALSO:

Three Apply To Develop Kansas Casino

Carcieri Fix Added to House Bill

Korean Company Plans Cambodia Casino

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Lorenzo Langford, Mayor, Atlantic City, New Jersey

Station Casinos Outlines Final Bankruptcy Deal

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Senior Service

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 29 • July 26, 2010

 GGB NEWS July 26, 2010

A New Day For AC

Governor Chris Christie (l.) outlines a plan that will bar gaming in other parts of New Jersey while setting up an autonomous casino tourism district in Atlantic City. The state will also seek to sell its racetracks and direct CRDA revenues directly to Atlantic City. The casino industry applauds.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Hook, Online, Sinker

The revolutionary launch of online gaming by the British Columbia Lottery Commission fell victim to a technical glitch and was shut down just hours after startup. One week later, a definitive answer to what caused the problem, and a new re-launch date, were still lacking.

Aquino Eyes PAGCOR Sale

Philippine President Benigno Aquino said he’s open to a possible sell off of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (PAGCOR) but first need to get it into shape.

Lobbying Heats Up for Carcieri Fix

Tribes frustrated with the lack of a legislative remedy to the Carcieri v. Salazar case have put pressure on friendly congressmen to move forward. Jefferson Keel, president of the National Congress of American Indians, pleaded for a cure.

Harrah’s Explores IPO

Gaming’s largest company may issue an IPO soon because of a deal its owners struck with billionaire John Paulson. According to Harrah’s Chairman and CEO Gary Loveman, the deal could happen “in a matter of months.”

ALSO:

London Hippodrome Will Go Round the Clock

Missouri Gets Seven Casino Applications

House Hears Internet Gambling Testimony

MGM Eyes Australian Non-Gaming Development

Deadline Approaches for Massachusetts to Agree on Casino Bill

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Gerhard Burda, Senior Vice President, GTECH Gaming Solutions

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 28 • July 19, 2010

GGB NEWS July 19, 2010

Harrah’s Philly?

Harrah’s Entertainment is negotiating to take over the troubled Foxwoods Philadelphia project (outdated rendering at l.), which could save the license for the developers. Steve Wynn pulled out in April after agreeing to take it over.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Eye On Japan

Pequots’ Financial Problems Mount

$2 billion in debt has forced the Mashantucket Pequots, owners of Connecticut’s Foxwoods Casino Resort, to end monthly distributions of casino revenues to 450 adult members, while the tribe misses a deadline on a $700 million bond.

Riviera Files for Bankruptcy

Riviera Holding Corp. has filed for bankruptcy after months of speculation. The company’s attorneys say a reorganization agreement has already been agreed to, and that the company’s Las Vegas and Colorado resorts will operate unaffected.

Casinos in Massachusetts May Wait a Year Says Governor

With the legislative deadline approaching to reach a deal between two versions of gaming expansion, one from the House and the other from the Senate, Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick is pessimistic that a deal will be struck this year.

ALSO:

Wynn Tip Policy OK’d

New Philippines Official to Get Tough on Illegal Numbers

Casino Study Planned for Israel Resort

FANTINI’S FINANCE: No Surprises 2Q

Carcieri ‘Fix’ Uncertain

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 27 • July 12, 2010

GGB NEWS July 12, 2010

Genting Stands Alone

Two U.S. companies are out of the race for Aqueduct after trying to finagle better deals. That leaves only Genting NY, based in Kuala Lumpur, and headed up by K.T. Lim, in the running to create New York City’s first racino.

FEATURES:

Massachusetts Pols try to Reconcile Differences on Bill

U.K. Casinos Go from Genting Singapore to Genting Malaysia

One company of Malaysia-based multinational Genting Group is buying the U.K. casinos of another Genting Group company, which includes the Maxims casino in Southampton. The lateral move will see Genting Malaysia take on international duties and leave Genting Singapore to focus on its Resorts World Sentosa property.

No More Casinos in Michigan?

While two ballot proposals that would have expanded corporate-owned casino licenses and legalized gaming at racetracks failed to collect enough voter signatures, the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians is fighting to build an off-reservation casino in Fruitport Township. Good news for Detroit casinos like MGM Grand Detroit.

Indian State Agency Jumps the Gun on Gaming

India has been called the next potential Macau by casino developers. One state in the northwest of the nation believes casino gaming would make a great addition to its future tourism offering, but laws will have to be changed before the topic can be seriously considered—or even mentioned.

ALSO:

Brazil Still Expecting Bingo This Year

Tribes Under Scrutiny

Macau Magic

Pennsylvania Launches Tables

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Sven Van Assche, Vice President of Design, MGM Resorts International

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 26 • July 5, 2010

GGB NEWS July 5, 2010

Gaming a Go in Massachusetts

Despite a weeklong effort a delaying and dealing with 164 amendments, the Massachusetts Senate last week passed a casino bill that will now have to be reconciled with an earlier bill passed by the House—before going to the governor, Deval Patrick (l.), who will decide whether to sign the bill.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: VLTs Seem OK for Ohio

Two companies that will be involved in the development of Ohio’s four regional casinos have also decided to invest in racetracks, including Harrah’s purchase of Cleveland’s Thistledown, as a November referendum is cancelled.

3 Bidders Remain at Aqueduct

Delaware North has dropped out of the racino race, citing credit concerns and the specter of tribal competition. That leaves three bidders from an original pack of six.

Ukraine Studying Re-introduction of Casinos

Casino gaming is said to be poised to make a comeback in Ukraine, after the entire industry was banned in May 2009. Alsart’s Lyubov Loginova expects a gaming bill to be introduced as early as this coming autumn.

More Officials, Entrepreneurs Liking Casinos for Japan

A slow but increasing movement towards casinos in Japan has been at work on a local level. Now, a group of political and business leaders hopes to have its views ready for discussion before the end of the year. Will Narita Airport host the first casino?

ALSO:

California Online Gaming Bill Dead for This Year

New York Launches Racino Effort

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Kevin DeSanctis, President and CEO, Revel Entertainment

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Small News, Big Numbers

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 25 • June 28, 2010

GGB NEWS June 28, 2010

Down So Far…

Moody’s report indicates that the gaming industry may have hit bottom, but it’s still going to be a long way back after such a steep and precipitous fall.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: British Bingo Bet

Gala Coral, the largest betting and gaming group in the U.K., has announced the successful conclusion of its balance sheet restructuring. With reduced debt, Gala Coral is now looking to a strong future. 

Massachusetts Senate Poised to Vote on Casino Bill

The Massachusetts Senate is wading through 164 proposed amendments to a bill that would create three regional casinos. The vote is expected very soon, but debate was shut down late last week to determine the costs of more than 150 amendments. Governor Deval Patrick expects to see a bill by the end of the month.

‘Official’ Debut of Singapore Casino Includes SkyPark

Marina Bay Sands, the Singapore casino of Las Vegas Sands, held its official grand opening last week, adding more amenities to the items that opened in April. The SkyPark and its infinity pool, spanning the three towers, is the project’s signature attraction.

Australia Advised to Cut Slot Stakes

Australia’s states generally have jurisdiction over their own gambling regulations. But the most recent report from the national Productivity Commission could see the federal government impose a strict limit on the maximum stake for non-casino slot machines, like this club in Sydney.

ALSO:

Station Auction Gets Go-Ahead

Germany Gets New Casino

Shinnecocks Consider Multiple Casinos

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Fabio Moretti, CEO, Thunderbird Resorts Philippines

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 24 • June 21, 2010

GGB NEWS June 21, 2010

PAGCOR Pass

Efriam Genuino (l.) resigned last week as chairman of the Philippines Amusement and Gaming Corporation under pressure from incoming president, Benigno Aquino III, after he received a “midnight appointment” from outgoing president, Gloria Arroyo.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Shinnecocks Win Recognition

With its new status as a federally recognized tribe, the Shinnecock nation of New York prefers to stay mum on its casino plans. Elders with the tribe celebrate the decision by the Interior Department.

MGM Mirage Changes Name

‘Mirage’ has officially been dropped from MGM’s name. The company is now known as MGM Resorts International, but officials said the Mirage will not be for sale. Rather, the new name better reflects MGM’s global business strategies.

Company Plans IPO for Manila Facility

Kazuo Okada, the biggest shareholder in Wynn Resorts last week announced plans to issue an IPO to fund a huge gaming resort is will build at Manila’s Entertainment City.

Wynn Will Break Ground Next Year in Macau

Steve Wynn tells reporters last week that Wynn Macau will break ground on the company’s third SAR development next year on the Cotai Strip. The second, Encore Macau, opened in April.

ALSO:

Austrian Adjustment

FANTINI’S FINANCE: The Rest of the Story

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Susan Macke, Chief Marketing Officer, International Game Technology

Venneman Joins Bally

Rhode Island Governor Questions Legality of Casino Bill

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 23 • June 14, 2010

GGB NEWS June 14, 2010

Asian Accent

The 4th annual G2E Asia was held last month at the Venetian in Macau, with thousands of attendees and the latest in products offered to casino operators in the burgeoning Asian market. A series of quality keynote presentations and conference sessions provided updates on all issues of importance to the Asian region. The 2010 G2E Asia Visionary Award was presented by AGA President Frank J. Fahrenkopf, Jr. to Ainsworth Gaming Chairman Len Ainsworth (c.).

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: E.U. Court OKs Dutch Online Ban

In two separate cases, the European Court of Justice has ruled that the Netherlands is allowed to stop online gaming operators from offering their products to Dutch citizens, as long as the goal of the preventive action is to combat illegal activity and safeguard the public.

France Is Open

Last week saw regulator ARJEL award the first free-market licenses to online horseracing and sports betting operators other than the two traditional French monopoly organizations.

Station Bondholders File Appeal

Unsecured creditors in the Station Casinos bankruptcy case have filed an emergency stay in the auction process for 11 Station casinos, including Texas Station, while their appeal of the bidding is heard.

Paulson Invests in Harrah’s

John Paulson first acquired stakes in MGM Mirage and Boyd Gaming; now the investor has purchased a 9.9 percent stake in Harrah’s Entertainment.

ALSO:

Slots Purchased for Penn’s Maryland Casino

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Jonathan Galaviz, Managing Partner, Galaviz & Company

Vietnam Wants Quality Investment

FANTINI’S FINANCE: It’s Not Over Until It’s Over

Panama Expecting More Casinos

Foxwoods President Resigns

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 22 • June 7, 2010

GGB NEWS June 7, 2010

Collision Course

The Massachusetts Senate is ready to begin work on a proposal by the leadership for three casinos resorts, but no racinos. That places the Senate in conflict with a bill already passed by the House. Senator Karen Spilka (l.) is leading efforts to finalize the gaming bill. 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: UIGEA In Effect, Business As Usual

The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act went into effect June 1 after a last-minute attempt by the Poker Players Alliance to exempt poker from the act. That attempt failed, but poker players and online gamblers continue to transfer funds from American accounts to gambling websites. 

Six Players Line Up for Aqueduct

Four previous bidders queue up for the New York City racino, along with two newcomers. Each group has paid $1 million as part of the application process. 

Two States Move Online Gaming Bills

California and New Jersey are each considering bills that would legalize online gaming/poker, hoping to bring the "first mover" benefits and increased tax revenues. California state Senator Rod Wright (l.) believes the matter is "urgent." 

Records Fall Again in Macau

As if double-digit boosts in revenue weren't enough over the past year, the Macau casinos came close to increasing revenues by nearly 100 percent in May. 

ALSO:

Kissin’ Cousins

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Curtis Sliwa, Founder, Guardian Angels

Senate Confirmation Goes Smooth for Stevens

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 21 • May 31, 2010

GGB NEWS May 31, 2010

Game Over in Alabama

State Supreme Court ruling hands power over electronic bingo to Governor Bob Riley (l.) and his anti-gaming task force. But candidates in the primary election say they will reverse the stance if elected. 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Eastern Attitude

The East Coast Gaming Congress calls for private-sector cooperation and public-sector marketing to bring industry out of recession. Speakers focus on Atlantic City, Pennsylvania, Ohio and New England, as well as the overall health of the industry. 

Las Vegas Sands Snares Playboy for Macau; Awards Construction Contracts

The iconic men's magazine brand, Playboy, will come to Macau after all now that a deal has been cemented between the company and Las Vegas Sands for a club in the Sands Macao casino hotel and a mansion to be located in one of the Cotai Strip properties. And the same week, the company signed contracts worth $120 million to resume construction of Parcels 5 and 6. 

Harrah’s Buys Ohio Track—Again!

After the first purchase collapsed, Harrah's Entertainment once again bought the Thistledown racetrack, outside of Cleveland, at a steep discount. 

Support High for Tribal Casino in Massachusetts Town

Support is high in Fall River, Massachusetts for a proposal by the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe and Chairman Cedric Cromwell, which won approval last week from the Fall River Redevelopment Authority for its proposal to build a casino on 300 acres that had been designated a BioPark. 

Delaware Kicks Off Table Games

Midway Slots at Harrington Raceway became Harrington Raceway & Casino last week, as Harrington became the first Delaware racino to launch live table games. 

ALSO:

FANTINI’S FINANCE: When Up is Down

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Michael Boettcher, Founder and President, Storm International

NYRA: We'll Close June 9

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 20 • May 24, 2010

GGB NEWS May 24, 2010

Online Gambling Showdown

Hearing on Capitol Hill focuses on internet gaming taxation that would produce tens of billions of dollars over the next 10 years. Sponsors say they want to gauge the support for the measure within Congress. The financial reform bill being considered by the Senate may be a way to get it passed. 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Buckeye Rules

The Ohio House and Senate are working on two different, although similar sets of regulations to guide in the administration of the state's four casinos that are due to start opening in 2012. 

Macau Casinos Get Financing

MGM Grand Macau and Sands China last week confirmed that they had lined up financing to refinance existing loans and the fund expansion projects. 

‘Largest’ Philippine Casino To Get Under Way

The first casino in Manila's Entertainment City could open next year if Philippine tycoon Henry Sy can stick to his schedule. Harrah's Entertainment is reported to be the casino operator being considered by the Belle Corp. 

Missouri Begins Process to Award 13th Casino License

About 15 potential casino developers showed up at a meeting of the Missouri Gaming Commission to hear about how the process to award a 13th gaming license will proceed, says Executive Director Gene McNary.

Massachusetts Tribe Drops One Town, Embraces Another

The Mashpee Wampanoag tribe of Massachusetts, after three years of working with the town of Middleboro, have dropped it and announced last week that it wants to build a destination casino resort in Fall River. 

ALSO:

Vietnam Resorts Mainly on Track

Texas Mulls Gaming to Plus Budget Hole

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: The late former New Jersey Casino Control Commissioner Frank J. “Pat” Dodd

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 19 • May 17, 2010

GGB NEWS May 17, 2010

Bermuda Pols Nix Casinos

The pro-gaming premier of Bermuda, Ewart Brown (l.), has been handed another defeat in his effort to bring casinos to the ailing tourist economy of the island. Regardless, he seems to have an inexhaustible supply of optimism for the future. 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Big A; Here We Go Again

This time, the New York Lottery will decide who runs a racino at Aqueduct Racetrack. It's the fourth round of bidding in nine years under three administrations. And now NYRA, the state racing organization, which operates the famous Saratoga racetrack, may sue because it's not getting revenue from Aqueduct slots. 

U.S. Virgin Islands OKs Slots and VLTs

The law allowing slot machines at the Randall "Doc" James racetrack on St. Croix in the Virgin Islands has been signed by the governor. However, an adjustment to the law will be needed to head off potential problems of jurisdiction concerning VLTs on St. Thomas.

Report: Singapore Gamblers More Local Than Hoped

Unofficial reports from Singapore indicate that gamblers at the two casinos are made up of more locals than the government initially wanted to see. Residents of the city-state must visit the casino via a separate entrance and pay a levy. 

Sands China Eyeing Japan?

A recent Reuters article has Sands China CEO Steve Jacobs speculating about his company's intentions on entering Japan, should the government decide to legalize casino gaming.

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Michael Leven, President and COO, Las Vegas Sands Corp.

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features a discussion with Michael Leven, the president and COO, of the Las Vegas Sands Corp., which was conducted just prior to the opening of the company's newest integrated resort, the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore. 

ALSO:

Cherokees Plan Casino

Iowa’s Lyon County Gets Casino

FANTINI’S FINANCE: April Showers

'Boutique' Casinos Pass Jersey Committee

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 18 • May 10, 2010

GGB NEWS May 10, 2010

15 Want to Show Show-Me-State

Missouri has one casino license, its last, to dispense, and 15 potential developers who are interested in bidding for it. The license, formerly used by Pinnacle's President Casino (l.), which will close in July, was surrendered in March and several major gaming companies are planning bids. 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: State of the States: Good and Improving

The annual "State of the States" report issued by the American Gaming Association was released last week and showed that, despite the struggling economy, gaming provides relief to states by providing jobs and taxes when they are most needed. 

Jamaica Gaming Bill Signed

Governor General Sir Patrick Allen has signed into law the bill that will allow development of large-scale casino resorts to proceed. The move ends speculation that the Governor General's religious beliefs could outweigh the will of the people. 

Penn National and Magna Partner in Maryland

The two premier racetracks in Maryland-Laurel Park and Pimlico-will be under the joint ownership and Penn National Gaming and MI Developments, an offshoot of Magna Entertainment, as the two organizations reach a joint venture agreement. 

Ohio Voters Authorize Columbus Casino Address Change

Ohio voters last week gave permission to move the location of the Columbus casino resort authorized by a state constitutional amendment last year from the Arena District to the west side of the city, the now demolished Delphi auto parts plant. Meanwhile the developer of the Cincinnati casino has released preliminary renderings. 

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Richard Haddrill, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bally Technologies

This week, the Global Gaming Business Podcast features an exclusive interview with Richard Haddrill, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bally Technologies, about his fifth anniversary leading what is one of gaming's most respected slot manufacturers. 

ALSO:

Massachusetts Gaming Bill Waits for Senate

Shuffle Master CEO Tim Parrott Dies

Casino New Brunswick Debuts

Quapaw Vice Chairman Resigns

Viage Stages Gala Opening in Brussels

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 17 • May 3, 2010

GGB NEWS May 3, 2010

Face of the Future

Chairman and CEO Sheldon Adelson and his wife Miriam join other Las Vegas Sands Corp. executives to cut the ribbon on Marina Bay Sands in Singapore; a property executives predict will redefine the casino destination resort. The facility is the second "integrated resort" to open in the island nation, which plans to use the casino as a tourist attraction and a generator for MICE business. 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: More Gambling In Illinois

Illinois lawmakers are informally looking at allowing up to 1,200 slot machines in the state's six racetracks in preparation for introducing a bill soon. And this latest move comes just months after VLTs were approved for state taverns and restaurants with the approval of local governments. Just that much more pressure on the state's long-suffering casinos, like Grand Victoria in Elgin. 

Labor Restrictions Could Slow Macau Expansion

Limits on the number of foreign construction workers that a company could hire could make it more difficult for companies to develop in Macau. While the new regulations could affect construction on parcels 5 and 6 of the Las Vegas Sands Cotai Strip development, Galaxy Entertainment's Galaxy Macau project should not be impacted. 

Foxwoods License at Risk in Philadelphia; Wynn is Back

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board takes the first steps to pull the Foxwoods Philadelphia license as Steve Wynn hints he still likes the state. Just because the casino magnate pulled out of Foxwoods doesn't mean he's uninterested in a casino there.

Stevens Named to Head NIGC

Tracie Stevens, a member Washington's Tulalip tribe, was named as chairwoman of the National Indian Gaming Commission last week, filling all three seats for the first time in more than two years. 

Shinnecocks Eye Sports Arena

With federal recognition imminent, the Long Island tribe weighs the pros and cons of locating a casino in an old sports arena in Nassau County, New York.

ALSO:

Boyd, Station Casinos Clash

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Lloyd Levenson, Partner, Cooper Levenson, Atlantic City

Shuffle Master CEO Steps Down

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Gaming’s New Normal

Three Bid for St. Louis Casino
Push-Pull for Bahamas Law Change

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 16 • April 26, 2010

GGB NEWS April 26, 2010

Encore Again

Wynn Resorts' Encore Macau opens in Macau, bringing yet a higher bar to the luxury end of the market in the SAR. The property features all suites (l.) with spectacular views and superior amenities. But he's already eyeing his next Macau project on the Cotai Strip.

FEATURES:

Changing His Tune?

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, the man who controls the gaming issues in the United States, is reportedly in negotiations to introduce a bill that would legalize online poker in the United States. 

Good Morning Vietnam

The Ho Tram Strip mega-pipe-dream project just took a giant step toward reality with the appointment of MGM Mirage veteran Lloyd Nathan as CEO of developer Asian Coast. With financial backing supposedly in place, the first property could be up and running in 2013.

Pinnacle’s Sugarcane Project Sinks

Pinnacle Entertainment has long been developing the Sugarcane Bay riverboat casino project, adjacent to the L'Auberge du Lac casino resort, but recently decided that the casino is no longer financially viable for the company. 

Cirque Takes On Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson's music will be paired with the acrobatic stylings of Cirque du Soleil in 2011, when the Canadian troupe takes a new Jackson show on the road. The tour will find a permanent home in Las Vegas in 2012. 

California Governor Slapped by Appeals Court

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger last week suffered the latest in an unbroken string of federal court rebukes for the aggressive way that he has pursued revenue from Indian casinos. This time he was slapped down by the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. However, he says he'll "be back." 

ALSO:

MGM Seeks Name Change

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: John Berry, Chairman, Quapaw Tribe

Station Reorganization Plan Causes Controversy

Betfair Positioning for Possible £1.5 Billion IPO

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 15 • April 19, 2010

GGB NEWS April 19, 2010

House Is In Order

Massachusetts House Speaker Robert DeLeo (l.) won a very personal battle last week when he persuaded a veto-proof majority in the House to approve his legislation, which would allow two regional casino resorts and four racinos in the state.

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Trump 3, Icahn 1

A plan by Trump Entertainment bondholders to reclaim three Atlantic City casinos won out last week over a rival plan from corporate raider Carl Icahn. A bankruptcy court chose the Trump-backed plan because it had the support of major creditors. Ivanka Trump, Donald's daughter, will play a role in the newly formed company.

Galaxy Completes Financing for Macau Project

With a $1.1 billion loan, Galaxy Entertainment has completed the financing necessary to complete construction that will lead to the opening of its first integrated resort, Galaxy Macau, adjacent to the Venetian on the Cotai Strip.

Pennsylvania Resort License Suddenly Hot

A last-minute surprise applicant brings to five the number of projects vying for the sole available resort casino license in Pennsylvania. At one time, the license was the poor stepchild of the state gaming industry, but now has a slew of bidders. David LeVan, heading up the Gettysburg project, wants the valuable ducat.

Kansas Casino Developer Folds Cards

Chisholm Creek Casino Resort became the second developer to decide to fold 'em on its proposal to build a state-owned casino resort in Kansas's Sumner County. It had requested an extension for the state to rule on its proposal, but when the governor refused, the developer, Lakes Entertainment Chairman Lyle Berman, tossed in the cards.

Philly Paper Offers Online Bets

A venerable newspaper group, founded in 1829, gets in on the action with legal online betting for sports fans. "Insatiable appetites" for sports, gaming and the web could provide an all-new revenue stream for the struggling publications.

ALSO:

Coin Named to UNLV Post

Minnesota Bill Would Increase Money to Vikings Stadium

George Bergman Named President of BWA

GLOBAL GAMING BUSINESS PODCAST: Andrew Webb, General Manager, Viage, Brussels

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 14 • April 12, 2010

GGB NEWS April 12, 2010

Wynn Bails on Philly

In a surprising announcement just days after discussing the project with Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter, Steve Wynn ditches his bid to take over the Foxwoods Philadelphia project. Wynn had submitted plans for the project, including renderings (l.), to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, earlier in the week. 

FEATURES:

WEEKLY FEATURE: Seminole Pact A Done Deal

All that's left is ratification of the two-part gaming compact, which will give casino-style card games to five tribal casinos for five years, and slots to all seven casinos for 20 years. Seminole Chairman Mitchell Cypress  says it's been a "long journey."

Resorts AC on the Brink

As Atlantic City staggers under 21 percent year-over-year losses, New Jersey's first casino tells commissioners it may not continue as "a going concern" 

Indian Country Gathers in San Diego

The debut of NIGA's Indian Gaming '10 brought together more than 5,000 attendees in San Diego, highlighted by awards, entertainment and business. NIGA Chairman Ernie Stevens, orchestrates the trade show's ribbon cutting with dignitaries that included NCAI Chairman Jefferson Keel, former Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell, actor Adam Beach and former UCLA basketball star Bill Walton.

Massachusetts Speaker Wants Casino Vote This Week

Surrounded by union members and business leaders, Massachusetts House Speaker Robert DeLeo last week released details of his bill that would allow two resort casinos and four racinos. He wants a quick vote on the bill.

MGM’s Pansy Problem

Three states are reviewing their approval of the MGM Mirage-Pansy Ho partnership in Macau after New Jersey rejects the deal and accuses Pansy of being too closely linked to her father, Stanley Ho (l.), who state regulators claim to be connected to organized crime.

ALSO:

FANTINI’S FINANCE: Buy Low, Sell High

France Opens Online Market

Philippines Development Hits Controversy

Armenia Redraws Gaming Guidelines

Podcast: Ken Jolly, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Australia, Asia, Africa and Europe, Aruze Gaming Americas

Issue : Vol. 8 • No. 13 • April 5, 2010

GGB NEWS April 5, 2010

Within Sight