Will Maryland Legalize Online Casinos? New Poll Shows Residents Are Skeptical | 10BET

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The Future of Online Casinos in Maryland: Is Online Casino Gambling Coming?

  • A poll finds that voters in Maryland do not want online casinos
  • State lawmakers have considered iGaming legislation in recent sessions

As the debate surrounding the legalization of online casinos intensifies, Maryland lawmakers have discussed various gambling law legislations in recent sessions, yet no formal proposal has been put forth for a vote in the General Assembly. This legislative hesitation aligns with a recent poll conducted by Lake Research Partners in Washington, DC, and commissioned by the National Association Against iGaming (NAAIG), which indicates that residents hope the current restrictions on online casinos remain unchanged through 2026.

State politics
Image by rob-armbruster from Pixabay

A survey of 650 registered voters revealed that 71% of likely voters are opposed to legalising iGaming. Among those opposed, 64% expressed being “strongly opposed” to the expansion of online casinos.

“Opposition to the legalization of iGaming in Maryland is thorough and consistent across all demographics,” stated the researchers. “iGaming starts out unfavourable and becomes stronger as voters learn more about it.”

Currently, legal iGaming is limited to the states of Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and West Virginia. Despite this, many states continue to see the operation of unregulated online sweepstakes casinos.

Maryland: A Prime Target for iGaming Advocates

Advocates for iGaming view Maryland as a prime candidate for policy changes. With a median household income around $100K, Maryland ranks third in the U.S., just behind Massachusetts and New Jersey.

The Maryland General Assembly considered iGaming legislation in both 2024 and 2025. Delegate Vanessa Atterbeary (D-Howard) was the leading force behind House Bill 17, which aimed to permit the state’s six casinos and various online sportsbooks to seek internet casino licenses. Each license would have incurred a cost of $1 million every five years, with a proposed tax rate of 55% on gross revenue designated for educational funding.

Despite these efforts, Atterbeary’s bill saw little progress in 2025, failing to receive a committee vote before it ultimately died in the Ways and Means Committee, which she chairs.

Opposition Against iGaming

Major opposition to iGaming in Maryland comes from entities like The Cordish Companies, which operates the Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland located in Anne Arundel County. Cordish is a founding member of NAAIG, pushing against iGaming expansion.

Cordish’s anti-iGaming stance is further supported by Ocean Downs Casino in Berlin, a racetrack casino owned by Churchill Downs, Inc., which is also a NAAIG member. Even though NAAIG members are against iGaming, both Cordish and Churchill function online casinos in states where they are legal, like Pennsylvania. Live! has partnerships with FanDuel, whereas Cordish has teamed up with bet365.

Maryland’s physical casinos have been experiencing declines recently. For four consecutive months, gross gaming revenue has dropped compared to the same months in 2024. From July 1 to September 30 in the 2026 fiscal year, Maryland casino revenue decreased by 3.1% compared to the previous year, with these establishments primarily supporting the Education Trust Fund aimed at enhancing public education and school infrastructure.

Key Takeaways

  • A significant 71% of Maryland voters oppose online casinos.
  • Recent legislation proposals for online gaming in Maryland have not made significant progress.
  • Concerns regarding the impact of iGaming on physical casinos continue to grow.
  • Legislation for online casinos could end up taxing gaming operators with a substantial portion allocated to education.

This poll reflects Maryland’s strong inclination to maintain a traditional approach to gambling, favouring physical locations over digital expansions. As a vibrant gaming state, Maryland’s future legislative actions surrounding iGaming will be closely watched as advocates and opponents alike strategize for the upcoming legislative sessions.

MGM Casino Records and the Gambling Scandal Tied to D.C. Councilman Bribery Case

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MGM Casino Records and Gambling Scandal Linked to D.C. Councilman Bribery Case

Federal prosecutors in Washington D.C. are striving for court approval to admit a vast collection of MGM Resorts International casino records as essential evidence in the ongoing bribery case against D.C. Councilmember Trayon White, which is part of a larger gambling scandal.

White faces accusations of conspiring to accept $156,000 in cash from an unnamed city contractor. This payment was allegedly in exchange for using his councilmember position to secure city-funded violence-intervention contracts.

political indictment
Image by planet_fox from Pixabay

Federal investigators have documented numerous meetings, text exchanges, and cash drop-offs, many of which were recorded on video.

The unnamed contractor in court documents is referred to as “CHS 1.” This individual, a local businessman and cooperating witness, came forward in the case against White, who entered a guilty plea in October 2024 related to defrauding a pandemic-era loan program and bribery.

Arrested on August 18, 2024, White denies the allegations and contends that he was set up by the FBI.

767 Pages of Evidence

The massive cache of MGM documents contains a wealth of information, including banking records and financial disclosures, that prosecutors hope to introduce as critical evidence in court. This extensive body of gambling records covers 767 pages and is connected to White’s alleged activities at one of MGM’s properties.

While the specific casino is not named in the indictment, Maryland’s MGM National Harbor is only 20 minutes away from central Washington.

“We understand that while motive is not a necessary element of the crime, jurors are typically interested in such factors. If an individual has financial woes due to gambling debts, it may make them more susceptible to accepting bribes,” comments former federal prosecutor Myanmar Ramani.

Ramani highlighted the substantial volume of the submitted documents, indicating that the gambling activity reflected within is likely “extensive or certainly frequent.”

A Political Comeback

On February 4, 2025, the D.C. Council unanimously voted to expel White from his Ward 8 seat, pointing to federal bribery charges and an internal ethics report as justifications. Notably, this marked him as the first councilmember ever to be expelled from the district.

Despite his expulsion, White was not legally barred from running for his office since he had not been convicted of a felony. In July 2025, he opted to run in the special election for his vacant seat, winning decisively, and was reinstated on August 8, 2025, just six months after his earlier departure.

His trial is set for January 2026, making this case one of the most significant political scandals in recent memory, intertwining gambling and politics.

Key Takeaways

  • Prosecutors are working to introduce MGM casino records in the bribery case against Trayon White.
  • White allegedly accepted $156,000 in bribes related to city contracts.
  • This case features a substantial selection of evidence spanning over 767 pages.
  • White’s trial is poised to begin in early 2026 following his re-election.

Summary

The MGM casino records connected to the bribery allegations against D.C. Councilmember Trayon White reveal intricate details about a significant political scandal. The ongoing developments surrounding his case become essential not just for understanding the implications of bribery in government but also for the shifting landscape of gambling politics in the D.C. area.

Casino Licensing Implications: MGM New York Exit and the Future of Casino Business | 10BET

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Casino Licensing and Regulatory Oversight: Governor Defends MGM New York Exit Amidst Political Controversy

  • New York Gov. Kathy Hochul won’t probe MGM’s decision to fold on its Yonkers casino plan.
  • The Trump Organization is denying any role in the shocking announcement.

MGM Resorts’ shocking decision to withdraw from the downstate New York casino bidding process has sent ripples through the industry, specifically raising questions regarding the complexities of the casino licensing landscape. This sudden exit has left many stakeholders concerned about the future of competitive gaming in the region, with Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano expressing confusion and disappointment over the explanations provided. While the setback complicates the path toward securing a new casino licensing agreement for the area, the state governor has decided against launching an investigation into the matter.

City skyline
Image by Pexels from Pixabay

After MGM folded on its $2.3 billion plan to convert its Yonkers racino into an entertainment hub akin to those in Las Vegas, the mayor called for an independent investigation into the abrupt decision to overhaul Empire City Casino into a full-scale casino featuring slot machines, live dealer table games, and sports betting.

I have no evidence to suspect that there’s any wrongdoing in this decision-making. I think MGM made their own, probably financial, decision based on what their needs are.

— New York Gov. Kathy Hochul

MGM’s withdrawal has improved the chances for Bally’s Bronx, previously considered a long shot, to gain one of the permits for downstate casinos.

Trump Connection

In 2019, President Donald Trump’s family business group, The Trump Organization, sold the management lease of a golf course owned by the city of New York in the Bronx for approximately $60 million. If Bally’s manages to secure permission to develop a casino at the Ferry Point Golf Links, they would owe the Trump Organization an additional $115 million.

Some allege that MGM’s exit might have been influenced by external pressures connected to the White House. Steve Witkoff, a close adviser to the president concerning Middle Eastern policies, is linked to Bally’s bid.

The President, through his organization, has categorically denied any involvement in MGM’s decision.

The Trump Organization had absolutely nothing to do with MGM’s decision to withdraw its bid for a casino license in Yonkers. Even the slightest suggestion otherwise is completely false, irresponsible, and pure speculation,” a statement from The Trump Organization read.

MGM indicated their exit was based on a ‘shift’ in competitive and economic assumptions that underpinned their application. Notably, the state reduced the proposed license length from 30 years to 15.

Three Bids Remain

Despite MGM’s exit, there are still competitive bids on the table:

  • Bally’s $4 billion bid in the Bronx.
  • Resorts World aims to invest $5.5 billion to transition its Queens Aqueduct racino into a full casino.
  • A partnership between billionaire Steve Cohen and Hard Rock sees an $8 billion investment at Citi Field Ballpark in Queens.

The New York Gaming Facility Location Board is expected to award licenses by the end of the year.

Summary:

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has decided not to investigate MGM Resorts’ sudden exit from the downstate casino bidding process, despite pressures and speculation surrounding the Trump Organization’s potential influence. The decision opens more opportunities for other bidders, particularly Bally’s, while the timeline to see awarded licenses is approaching.

Navigating Casino Licensing: What the Future of a Times Square Casino Means for Developers | 10BET

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Navigating the Casino Licensing Process: A Ray of Hope for the Times Square Project

With the recent updates from Marc Holiday, CEO of SL Green (Grand Rush Online), the prospect of a Times Square casino remains a compelling possibility, provided the developers can navigate the complexities of casino licensing. According to SL Green, the company behind the proposed casino hotel at 1515 Broadway, the project still holds significant potential; however, its ultimate success depends on overcoming initial setbacks, such as the rejection by a community advisory committee (CAC), to secure the necessary regulatory approvals.

What Happened with the Times Square Casino Proposal?

  • The Times Square casino plan was the first in New York to be rejected by the CAC.
  • SL Green indicated that the casino proposal’s demise isn’t definitive.
  • The potential for restoring the proposal depends on future developments in the licensing process.
City crowds
Image by OfotoRay from Pixabay

Holiday stated that while the project faced significant hurdles, he does not consider it “completely dead.” This optimistic viewpoint emerged during a recent earnings call where he addressed the potential for the Times Square location.

Future Prospects for Casino Development in Manhattan

New York City continues to face a turbulent landscape for casino proposals. The sudden withdrawal of MGM Resorts from the Empire City Casino project has reduced the number of competitors to three. This shift has led to renewed speculation about the possibility that all three licenses may not be granted, which could pave the way for reconsideration of the Times Square proposal.

Key points regarding the future of casino development in Manhattan include:

  • There remains a strong local sentiment against having a casino in Times Square.
  • However, many industry experts advocate the need for at least one casino in Manhattan to revitalize the area.
  • SL Green’s CEO believes that Times Square is the ideal location for such a venue, despite community pushback.

Strategic Options for SL Green

As SL Green moves forward, the company is evaluating various alternatives for the prime real estate at 1515 Broadway. Green highlighted the building’s potential as a hotel/leisure destination if the casino license remains unattainable:

  • The property is currently leased to CBS, which is being strengthened through a recent acquisition.
  • SL Green maintains that the debt per square foot is manageable, providing the company with significant financial flexibility.
  • Current cash flow from the property is stable, enabling multiple negotiation avenues for future options.

Conclusion: A Future for Times Square Casino?

While the Times Square casino project faces challenges, the persistent belief in its viability from SL Green’s leadership suggests that hope lingers. Whether or not this vision becomes reality will largely depend on the evolving landscape of casino licenses in New York and the community’s reception toward gambling in Manhattan.

This story highlights the complexity and unpredictability of the gaming industry, particularly in iconic locations like Times Square. As proposals are carefully evaluated and re-evaluated, stakeholders will keep an eye on developments in this dynamic environment.

Keywords for imagery on Pixabay: “Times Square Casino”

Tropicana Atlantic City Casino Resort Taking Bookings for New Solana Tower

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Tropicana Atlantic City Casino Resort Taking Bookings for New Solana Tower

  • Tropicana’s new Solana Tower will open in January 2026
  • The hotel tower was formerly the West Tower at the Atlantic City casino resort

Tropicana Atlantic City is well on its way to completing a multimillion-dollar renovation of the Solana Tower. This new addition to the Tropicana resort, a major casino resort, is expected to enhance the overall experience for guests, making it a prime destination for both casual and seasoned travellers alike.

Resort architecture
Image by neufal54 from Pixabay

Back in May, Caesars Entertainment, the operator of Tropicana, made the exciting announcement regarding the transformation of the West Tower into the Solana Tower. This extensive renovation includes upgrading all 598 lodging spaces, with bookings for stays set to start from January 2026.

Joseph Giunta, Tropicana’s senior vice president and general manager, shared, “This renovation represents the next chapter for Tropicana, one that reflects the vibrant energy of Atlantic City while delivering a refreshed, comfortable escape for every kind of traveler.”

The aesthetic of the Solana Tower is inspired by the warmth of the Atlantic City Boardwalk, combining traditional charm with modern flair. Each room features soft wood tones, tropical motifs, curated artwork, and attention to detail designed to evoke a “relaxed yet refined atmosphere.”

Resort
Image by Sushuti from Pixabay

Tropicana Details

Tropicana Atlantic City boasts over 2,300 hotel rooms and suites, providing varied accommodations to cater to all types of visitors.

Along with the five hotel towers, the resort features:

  • Four indoor and outdoor pools
  • Valet and self-parking options
  • Full-service spa and salon
  • Fully equipped fitness centre
  • More than two dozen restaurants and bars
  • A 2,000-seat Broadway theatre
  • IMAX Theatre
  • Nightclub
  • Retail shopping mall

For gaming enthusiasts, the Tropicana has one of the largest gaming floors in Atlantic City, featuring:

  • 1,600 slot machines
  • 100 table games
  • A Caesars Sportsbook

Established in November 1981, Tropicana is the fifth-oldest casino in Atlantic City, maintaining its unique Old Havana design theme to enhance the guest experience.

However, the casino has experienced some challenges recently. In 2025, the physical casino floor earned $153 million from its gaming operations, which reflects a 1.8% year-over-year decrease. Tropicana currently holds a market share of less than 8% in the Atlantic City gaming market, with Borgata leading at 27.2%.

This downturn comes as competition has grown with the introduction of Hard Rock and Ocean casinos, whose presence has shifted Tropicana’s market share, which hovered around 15% in 2017 and 2018.

Refurbishment Needed

The financial struggles faced by Caesars contributed to a lack of investment in its Atlantic City properties, negatively affecting the upkeep of Tropicana and its sister casinos, Harrah’s and Bally’s. As part of the conditions for the Eldorado/Caesars merger, the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement mandated a minimum of $150 million in renovations across these casinos.

Tropicana has long been a favourite for budget-conscious travellers, but it is clear that upgrades were overdue. Recent online reviews indicated issues with cleanliness and outdated furniture. The renovation and the introduction of the Solana brand are part of Tropicana’s strategy to address these concerns and improve the overall guest experience.

Anticipating the opening of Solana Tower, the Tropicana is striving to provide a renewed sense of excitement and comfort for all visitors.

Summary: Tropicana Atlantic City is set to unveil its newly renovated Solana Tower in January 2026, aiming to enhance the resort’s appeal and address past concerns regarding the guest experience. With modern amenities and a refreshed design, the Solana Tower reflects the vibrant spirit of Atlantic City while promising a comfortable retreat for all guests. As the casino continues its evolution, it aims to regain its market presence amidst stiff competition.

Michelin Key Awarded to First Las Vegas Casino Resorts | 10BET

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Michelin Key Awarded to First of the Premier Las Vegas Casino Resorts

The standard for luxury is being redefined in Nevada as Fontainebleau Las Vegas makes history, setting a new benchmark for the premier casino resorts in the region by becoming the city’s first to be awarded a prestigious Michelin Guide key.

  • Similar to Michelin stars awarded to restaurants, these keys signify properties that deliver exceptional service.
  • The Four Seasons and Waldorf Astoria in Las Vegas have also received keys, despite not having casinos.

Recently, Fontainebleau Las Vegas earned a “One Key” designation from the “2025 Michelin Guide,” making it the only gaming resort in Nevada to achieve this honour. Previously, the Waldorf Astoria and the Four Seasons Hotel in Las Vegas were also awarded single Michelin keys last April as part of the hotel awards programme’s launch.

Vegas hotel
Image by favoritesunfl from Pixabay

Michelin keys recognise outstanding hotels globally based on several criteria, including architecture, service quality, personality, value, and contributions to the local community.

These keys, first awarded at a ceremony in Paris last April, follow a star system established for restaurants. Receiving one key denotes a hotel stay as “very special,” two keys signify “exceptional” experiences, and three keys indicate “extraordinary” service.

On October 8, Fontainebleau Las Vegas joined 37 other U.S. hotels on the key recipient list as the Michelin Guide released its first update for key selections. To date, a total of 317 U.S. hotels have received keys (with 232 receiving one key, 69 two keys, and 16 three keys).

Hotels may gain, retain, or lose keys based on ongoing evaluations, although Michelin does not disclose when keys are rescinded.

Stars of a Different Stripe

An important distinction between Michelin keys and stars is that Las Vegas entities qualify for these keys.

To be nominated for a Michelin star, a restaurant must be located in a city covered by a Michelin Guide, and Las Vegas was only included for two years. Michelin published its first guide to food and lodging in 1900 to stimulate consumer demand for cars — and hence, tires — enabling travel to listed destinations.

In 2008, the Michelin Guide was launched for Las Vegas, leading to 17 restaurants receiving one or more stars within a year. However, by 2009, the guide was discontinued in Las Vegas due to the effects of the Great Recession on the region’s economy.

Since then, Michelin has not reintroduced the Las Vegas guide and has remained tight-lipped about the reasons. In response to inquiries from Casino.org, a spokesperson stated only, “While the Guide’s goal is world coverage, we must ensure sustainable long-term development, which is why we are not currently in every state or city.”

At present, Michelin Guides are published in select U.S. cities, including New York, California, Florida, Illinois, Georgia, Colorado, and Washington, DC.

Interesting Points to Note:

  • The Michelin Guide’s key system introduced in 2025 aims to enhance hotel recognition.
  • Fontainebleau Las Vegas represents a significant milestone as the first gaming resort to be honoured with this distinction.
  • The consideration for the key is based on thorough assessments covering various aspects of hotel operation.

Overall, the recognition of Fontainebleau Las Vegas sets a new standard for service excellence in the gaming industry. As the first casino in the city to receive this accolade, it signals a shift towards valuing not just gaming experiences but overall hospitality and service quality in casino resorts.

Nevada Warns Gaming Licensees About Sports Gambling Event Contracts

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Nevada Warns Gaming Licensees About Sports Gambling Contracts

Key Highlights in Sports gambling:

  • Nevada issues warning regarding sports event contracts
  • The NGCB regards prediction market offerings as sports gambling

Nevada officials have issued a critical alert for the state’s licensed casinos and gaming establishments, numbering over 300, cautioning them against associating with companies involved in prediction markets that offer contracts based on the outcomes of sports events. This warning stems from concerns regarding the suitability and legality of such contracts under existing gaming regulations.

prediction market
Image by udayteja7770 from Pixabay

On a recent Wednesday, the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) released an official notice advising licensees that their regulatory agency interprets “sports event contracts” as a form of sports gambling. Operators such as Kalshi, Polymarket, and Robinhood, which claim to function legally under federal regulations via the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), should be steered clear of by Nevada licensees.

“If a Nevada licensee decides to offer Sports and Other Event Contracts in the state or partners with entities providing such contracts, the Board will assess these relationships during evaluations of the entity’s suitability for maintaining their gaming license,” stated the NGCB notice.

Kalshi, Polymarket, and Robinhood hold Designated Contract Market (DCM) and Futures Commission Merchant (FCM) permits from the CFTC. The NGCB is responsible for governance and enforcement under the Nevada Gaming Control Act, presenting policy recommendations to the Nevada Gaming Commission (NGC).

Potential Ripple Effect

Moreover, the NGCB warns that tobacco licensees should refrain from partnering with prediction markets tied to sports event contracts within Nevada and also in other states where they may operate. If any licensee engages in offering Sports and Other Event Contracts in jurisdictions without adhering to local restrictions, or if they collaborate with entities that violate applicable laws, they may face disciplinary action as per the Gaming Control Act.

“Decisions made by the NGCB, often regarded as the gold standard in commercial gaming regulation in the United States, are frequently observed by regulators in other states. Thus, Nevada’s warning could initiate a ripple effect throughout other regions,” the NGCB acknowledged.

Given the emerging prediction market space, numerous sports betting firms have been contemplating potential investments, partnerships, or acquisitions.

For instance, in August, FanDuel forged a partnership with CME Group for conducting event contracts based on economic data and financial occurrences—the CME does not deal with sports-related contracts and FanDuel operates outside Nevada.

Sports Contracts Defined as Illegal Betting

Recapping their advisory, Nevada gaming authorities clarified that prediction markets that provide sports contracts engage in illegal gambling as per state law. Collaborating with or being involved with illegal gambling constitutes a significant infringement on a licensee’s suitability under evaluation.

“The Board emphasizes that licensees must uphold their obligations to remain suitable and comply with the laws in every jurisdiction where they operate,” the NGCB concluded. “All such behaviours will be scrutinised when assessing suitability for new applications as outlined in the Gaming Control Act.”

In summary, Nevada’s warning highlights the serious implications for gaming licensees involved with prediction markets offering sports event contracts, underscoring the need to comply with state regulations to maintain their licensing status.

Clairvest Acquires MGM Casino Properties in Ohio for $546 Million

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MGM Real Estate Deal: Selling Ohio Casino Properties to Clairvest for $546 Million

When evaluating the landscape of luxury travel and entertainment, one must consider the diverse offerings found within premier casino properties. These expansive destinations serve as the cornerstone for high-stakes excitement and world-class hospitality, making them essential study points for anyone interested in the industry. Key points include:

  • MGM is selling its Ohio casino/racetrack to Clairvest Group for $546 million.
  • Rumors of the sale have been circulating since the first quarter of 2024.

MGM Resorts International has announced its decision to sell the operating rights of the MGM Northfield Park racino, located near Cleveland, to private equity funds controlled by Clairvest Group. The sale, valued at $546 million in cash, is set to provide MGM with approximately $420 million in after-tax proceeds, which will be completed in the first half of next year.

Sports venue
Image by Pexels from Pixabay

The transaction price is notable, representing 6.6 times the racino’s adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) for the 12 months ending June 30, 2025. MGM’s CFO Jonathan Halkyard commented on the sale, stating, “This is an excellent result for MGM Resorts and demonstrates our ability to drive transaction multiples at significant premiums over our trading value.”

History and Implications of the Sale

The MGM Northfield Park was acquired by MGM Growth Properties, a real estate investment trust, back in 2018, for $275 million. Following the acquisition, MGM acquired operating rights and rebranded the venue, driving up its value significantly.

This sale marks the closure of a long-standing rumor regarding the future of two MGM properties: the Northfield Park and MGM Springfield in Massachusetts. Despite speculation of similar actions for the Springfield venue, executives have stated that no decision has been made regarding its future.

Market Analysis and Future Outlook

Investors see this deal as a positive sign, highlighting ongoing interest in regional gaming properties, even against a backdrop of heightened interest rates, which some analysts believe stifles casino industry consolidations. Jefferies analyst, David Katz, noted that the overall valuation of this sale could indicate a robust appetite for such regional gaming assets.

  • The sale multiple of 6.6 times is the highest seen for a single regional operation since the pandemic.
  • The amendment to MGM’s lease agreement with VICI Properties will reduce its annual obligations by $54 million.

MGM’s sale not only brings in a significant financial boost but also reflects strategic financial management, allowing the company to redirect focus on more lucrative operations.

Summary

In summary, MGM Resorts’ sale of Northfield Park to Clairvest Group for $546 million is both a financially strategic decision and an indicator of the robust market for regional gaming properties. MGM anticipates a total profit of approximately $420 million following the sale while also reducing its lease obligations, demonstrating a proactive approach to financial stewardship in a complex economic landscape.

Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino Increases Casino Security Following Deadly Shooting

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Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino Increases Casino Security Following Deadly Shooting

The Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino Hotel has ramped up its Casino security measures following a tragic incident where a shooting occurred. This significant response comes shortly after a mass shooting incident resulted in fatalities and injuries, prompting the casino to take swift action to ensure the safety of its guests.

Enhanced Security Measures

  • Concrete Barrier Wall: A concrete barrier has been erected at the primary entrance to the casino. This structure was built in direct response to the tragic events of September 27, which left two individuals dead.
  • Increased Security Personnel: The casino has also added more armed security personnel to the venue.
  • Mobile Guard Stations: New mobile guard stations have been established to enhance visual monitoring throughout the property.
  • Vehicle Screening System: A sophisticated vehicle screening system is now in place to detect suspicious activity, allowing security staff to screen vehicles before they enter.
Casino security
Image by stevepb from Pixabay

The Incident: A Brief Overview

The shooting incident that triggered these changes occurred late at night, leading to two fatalities: a retired customs agent and a young mother of five. Keryan Jones, the alleged shooter, was arrested and is currently facing capital murder charges. During the investigation, federal law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, DEA, and ICE, collaborated with local authorities to explore the motive behind the shooting.

No Motive Identified Yet

To date, there has been no clear motive established for this violence. Investigators noted that the suspect exhibited a seemingly quiet demeanor, leaving those familiar with him puzzled as to what prompted such a violent act.

Business as Usual

Despite the tragic events, the Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino Hotel is continuing its operations. They have resumed normal activities, promoting their recent winners on social media platforms and hosting several Halloween-themed promotions throughout the month. One such promotion includes an attractive giveaway of a 2025 GMC Sierra 2500 HD ATX truck.

Key Facts about Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino

  • Location: Situated just north of the Mexico border in Eagle Pass, Texas.
  • Gaming Offerings: The casino offers a wide range of gaming options including 3,300 electronic bingo machines, bingo games, and poker.
  • Ownership: Owned and operated by the Kickapoo Traditional Tribe of Texas.

Conclusion

The Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino is taking critical steps to enhance safety for its patrons following a tragic incident. Through the implementation of concrete barriers, increased security staffing, and advanced surveillance measures, the casino aims to reassure visitors of its commitment to their safety. As operations continue alongside these enhancements, upcoming promotions and events at the casino signify a return to normalcy while maintaining a heightened sense of vigilance.

Lessons from Japans Failed IR Rollout: Why the New York Casino Licensing Process is Stalling | 10BET

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Why the New York Casino Licensing Process Failed, Mirroring Japan’s Unsuccessful IR Rollout

Key Points: Understanding the complexities of the industry requires careful attention to several critical stages, most notably the rigorous requirements of casino licensing. These key points detail the essential steps involved in navigating the legal hurdles and regulatory frameworks necessary to secure your casino licensing and manage the entire operation efficiently and legally.

  • New York’s casino licensing process has largely been a bust.
  • State’s sluggish procedures curbed enthusiasm among major players, including Sands, Wynn, and MGM.

Once viewed as the most coveted untapped casino market in the United States—and perhaps the globe—downstate New York has seen its licensing process become a farce. The state was meant to award three licenses for New York City, Long Island, or Westchester County, yet the process has dragged on so long that even the most optimistic license hopefuls are growing disheartened. State officials now have only three bids to consider, and alarming whispers suggest that another bidder might soon bow out.

Downtown city
Image by Tama66 from Pixabay

In 2013, New York’s gaming bill allowed for the establishment of up to four casinos upstate and three downstate, with a 10-year exclusivity for upstate casinos regarding competition downstate. However, the moratorium on downstate slots and table-game concessions was only lifted in February 2023—after which almost 1,000 days passed without any licenses being awarded.

This state of inertia reveals further complications: local pushback against new casinos, the state’s deliberations on introducing iGaming options, and deciding to grant licenses for only 15 rather than 30 years, have all contributed to a decline in interest from major casino players.

The Japan Connection

The circumstances surrounding New York’s casino licensing evoke parallels with Japan’s experience. In 2018, Japan’s lawmakers voted to permit up to three integrated resort casinos. Initially heralded as a groundbreaking opportunity since Macau’s casino market opened in 1999, Japan’s slow rulemaking and bidding progress led nearly all developers except MGM Resorts and Casinos Austria to abandon their plans. Ultimately, the only approved project was the MGM Osaka bid, leaving two permits still unissued.

As in Japan, Las Vegas Sands was the first to withdraw from the New York race. Likewise, Wynn Resorts also opted out of its bids prior to the call for bids.

New York State Senator Joseph Addabbo, a proponent of the 2013 casino legislation, has urged swift action following MGM’s recent withdrawal of its Empire City Casino bid in Yonkers. Currently, only Resorts World’s project at Queens Aqueduct Racetrack, Hard Rock’s bid at Willets Point, and Bally’s Bronx remain active considerations.

Addabbo insists that the New York Gaming Facility Location Board must expedite awarding the three licenses to maximize the casino-related tax revenue, employment opportunities, and regional economic growth. “I don’t see why the state wouldn’t award the last three licenses to the last three applicants,” he stated.

MGM’s Exit: A Silver Lining?

Barry Jonas from Truist Securities assessed the implications of MGM’s departure, suggesting it may benefit investors. Concerns over a potential “winner’s curse” lingered, especially considering the location of the Empire City Casino, which is notably further from Manhattan than the remaining bids, potentially hindering its competitiveness.

“We see this as a positive for MGM, which now frees up capital for potentially better uses,” Jonas noted.

Jonas further questioned whether all, some, or any of the remaining bids will secure licensing. This uncertainty creates an atmosphere of conflict over future casino developments in the state.

As New York grapples with its casino licensing conundrum, a lack of action mirrors not only the systemic uncertainties seen in Japan but also reflects widespread frustrations over governmental inefficiencies and stakeholder confidence. The route to reviving New York’s once-bright prospects for entering the casino market is strewn with obstacles, demonstrating the complexities involved in the interaction of policy, public sentiment, and investment interests.

Conclusion

The New York casino licensing process remains a study in frustration, closely reflecting Japan’s imperfect rollout of integrated resorts. As interests wane and potential licensees reconsider their positions, it becomes increasingly clear that substantial reform and proactive governance are essential to reinvigorate the market’s potential. The implications of this stagnant process could reverberate throughout the gaming sector, stressing the need for strategic action from lawmakers and regulators alike.