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Neighboring nations highlight that establishing a high-profile venue could substantially affect the region’s economic situation and lead to unforeseen consequences

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Efforts by the Coquille Indian Tribe to create a new casino along South Pacific Highway in Medford face opposition from four Tribal Nations based in Northern California and Oregon. The Karuk, Cow Creek, Elk Valley, and Tolowa Dee-ni’ Tribes have united against the Coquille Tribe’s project, drafting a letter to Department of the Interior (DOI) Secretary Deb Haaland.

A New Casino Could Disrupt the Existing Balance

At the heart of the issue is the Coquille Tribe’s plan to place 2.4 acres of land into trusts through the DOI for the casino project. While this process typically only applies to land near a tribe’s reservation, the proposed site is 150 miles beyond the Coquille Tribe’s reservation. In contrast, the Karuk Tribe’s service area is within 50 miles of the location.

In a letter to DOI Secretary Deb Haaland, four neighboring tribal nations urged her to visit them before issuing an exception to the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act for the Coquille Tribe. Speaking for local news outlet KMTR, chair of the Karuk Tribe, Buster Attebery, expressed concerns about the lack of consultation with local tribes regarding the project’s potential economic impacts.

The economic consequences could be huge. It would devastate our ability to provide healthcare, public safety, social services.

Buster Attebery, Karuk Tribe chair 

Attebery emphasized the importance of consulting tribes with ancestral ties to the region, highlighting their millennia of best practices. The four nations opposing the project fear such a high-profile venue could create unnecessary competition and impact their revenue streams. Many tribes rely on their gaming businesses to ensure an adequate standard of living for their members, so Coquille’s project could be considered a hostile action.

The Coquille Tribe’s Efforts Span Several Years

Responding to the rising controversy, Coquille tribal chair Brenda Meade defended the project, citing the Coquille Restoration Act of 1989, authorizing the tribe to take land into trust for economic development within a designated reservation restoration area, including Jackson County. Meade expressed disappointment in the opposition from other tribes, emphasizing the Coquille Tribe’s rights within the reservation restoration area defined by Congress.

It is heartbreaking to us that other tribes, including tribes in California, continue to attack our sovereignty and seek to limit our economic development rights.

Brenda Meade, Coquille tribal chair

The project for a Medford casino previously faced significant opposition from Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek, who expressed concerns that the venue would negatively impact all of Oregon’s tribes and lead to a proliferation of gambling. Despite Kotek’s stance, the final decision rests with DOI, which previously rejected the Coquille Tribe’s effort.

As the dispute continues, the fate of the Coquille Tribe’s casino project hangs in the balance, with opposing Tribal Nations advocating for their sovereignty and economic interests in the region. While the new project technically meets the legal requirements, its implications and long-term impact have sparked ongoing debates that could reshape Oregon’s gaming landscape.

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The bill comes in response to the controversial approval of RW Development’s casino in Biloxi which was greenlit by the Mississippi Gaming Commission

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Mississippi’s Tidelands bill has raised concerns about the future of coastal casinos. The bill received unanimous approval from the Senate and has 30 days before a final vote is held.

Senate Bill 2780 passed the Senate on Thursday after receiving two amendments. The first amendment allows cities to control properties on ports and harbors as long as there is not a “gaming component” to them. This means that the state cannot restrict the public use of a coastal property, as long as it is for public purpose.

However, the amendment maintains the points that provide the Secretary of State with control over coastline casinos. Under the new bill, developers must secure a lease from the state, instead of from the local government. Additionally, new casinos cannot be located on or adjacent to sand beaches but still have to be located within 800 feet of the shore. Finally, the casino developer must control all property.

Overall, the bill has the potential to hinder the creation of new casinos, some believe. Critics furthermore claimed that coastal leaders were not consulted about the Tidelands bill, depriving them of their input.

The bill highlighted a discrepancy between the state government and the local governments.

Mississippi’s Government Doesn’t Want to Repeat the Recent Biloxi Hassle

David Blount, chair of the Senate Gaming Committee, ushered in the first amendment to Senate Bill 2780. He explained that the government is not interested in micromanaging local harbors and instead wants to create a “consistent environment” for the casino industry.

His comment echoed the recent approval of RW Development’s casino in Biloxi which was greenlit by the Mississippi Gaming Commission. The project was initiated by a partnership between the developer and the city of Biloxi and Harrison County to rebuild Veterans Avenue Pier. The Secretary of State blocked the initiative – a decision that was later disputed in the Supreme Court. As a result, RW Development was later able to secure approval for adding a casino to the pier.

Mike Thompson, chairman of the Senate Ports & Marine Resources Committee, explained that the Tidelands bill seeks to make sure that nothing precludes government authorities from having exclusive control over their ports and harbors. He acknowledged that the bill has generated concerns among coastal leaders and added a reverse repealer amendment that ensures the bill will have more time for adjustments to be made.

In the meantime, the House version of this measure, HB 1659, passed the House by a landslide after 113 representatives voted in favor of the bill against 6 who opposed it.

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The two suspects’ harmful practices allegedly cost the venue over $10,000, highlighting the need for thorough monitoring and accountability

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State police have arrested two employees of Rivers Casino following an investigation into what authorities describe as a complex cheating conspiracy at a Roulette table. Robin Schnepp, a table games dealer, and supervisor Anthony Laush stand accused of aiding at least two players in cheating on multiple occasions, resulting in significant winnings.

A Roulette Game Quirk Allowed for an Exploit

Pennsylvania law enforcement initiated the investigation after Rivers Casino received an anonymous letter a few months ago detailing concerns about irregularities with Interblock Roulette. A regular patron who wished to remain anonymous shared his observations with news outlet WPXI, noting several suspicious occurrences during his visits to the casino.

In the past year, I noticed a couple glitches with it, with the digital number coming up and the delay.

Rivers Casino patron

The reported manipulation occurred with Interblock Roulette, a game that requires the dealer to manually spin the ball in the opposite direction of the wheel. Allegedly, when this manual spinning does not occur, sensors fail to detect that the wheel has been spun, allowing players to continue placing bets even after the ball has landed on a number and the outcome has been determined.

According to state law enforcement, surveillance footage captured Schnepp spinning the roulette ball incorrectly on multiple occasions, followed by a man and a woman increasing their bets after the ball had landed. Laush reportedly validated these spins, with each player walking away with over $2,000 in fraudulent winnings.

The Suspects Will Appear in Court

Police speculate that the two suspects had an arrangement with the two players and received a share of the spoils. In addition to the cheating at the Roulette table, Laush also allegedly loaded fraudulent comps onto the account of one of the players involved. The motive behind this action remains unclear.

This incident marks another case of potential criminal activity by staff. December saw a report that a Rivers casino manager in Pittsburgh reportedly stole $20,000 from the cashiers’ cage, raising concerns regarding the staff’s integrity. A casino representative briefly commented on the most recent case, noting the venue fully cooperated with law enforcement.

Schnepp and Laush’s preliminary court hearings are scheduled for 2 April. Their activities allegedly cost the casino over $10,000, and they will likely face several accompanying charges. While the legal process unfolds, establishments like Rivers Casino must uphold the highest standards of professionalism and accountability to retain the trust of their patrons.

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The massive project has a price tag of $300 million and will be built by the globally recognizable hospitality group, Accor International

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Across the globe, integrated resorts offer premium hospitality, entertainment and gaming experiences. Large-scale resorts, bringing amenities such as luxury hotel accommodation, dining and shopping outlets, as well as casino gambling and recreational activities provide economic stimulus and boost the visitations for regions where they are located. One such large-scale project will be the first integrated resort in Subic Bay, the Philippines.

The integrated resort involves an investment of a whopping $300 million and is expected to significantly boost tourism and attract more visitors to the popular vacation destination. The globally-recognizable hospitality company, Accor International Group, is behind the new integrated resort project. For this region in particular, the company will operate under Subic Sun Convention Resort and Casino, Inc., and will be involved in the construction of the world-class integrated resort.

The world-class integrated complex will offer the Ibis Styles Subic and Mercure Subic hotels. While Ibis Styles is a part of Accor’s economy properties, Mercure is a part of its midscale segment. The opening of the resort is planned for 2025 and will be completed in several phases.

Besides luxury accommodation, the $300-million project will offer a wide range of shopping outlets, an exhibition and convention hall, different restaurants and a casino as well. Both Ibis Styles Subic and Mercure Subic are expected to welcome their first visitors at some point in 2026. While Ibis Styles will feature 175 hotel rooms, the midscale property, Mercure Subic is planned to offer 250 luxury hotel rooms.

Accor Continues to Grow Its Global Footprint

Currently, Accor is famous as the largest hospitality group in Europe. Besides across Europe, the company has a strong presence on a global scale. Accor’s assets include properties in more than 110 countries across the globe with nearly 5,600 properties. Besides economy and midscale, the company offers premium and luxury hospitality destinations.

“A world-class integrated leisure and convention center will be constructed in progressive phases, encompassing a six-hectare property that will feature an integrated resort casino complex and five-star resort hotels.“

Pablo Edgardo T. Puyat, chairman and president at Subic Sun Convention Resort and Casino

Pablo Edgardo T. Puyat, Subic Sun Convention Resort and Casino’s chairman and president, who was recently quoted by Subic News Link, confirmed the company’s intention to complete the first phase of the resort with the opening of amenities in 2025. He spoke about the shops and facilities the Ibis Styles Subic and Mercure Subic are expected to offer. Finally, Puyat said that amenities for the $300 million project are going to be introduced via a phased approach.

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Wynn Resorts has released additional details of its plans for the highly-anticipated Western Hudson Rail Yards complex in New York City valued at $12 billion

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The Nevada-based, publicly traded corporation that develops and operates high-end hotels and casinos, Wynn Resorts, has offered additional details of its bold plans for a $12 billion skyscraper casino resort in New York City.

Wynn Resorts has recently released the renderings of the upcoming complex that will be located at Hudson Yards.

5.6-Acre Recreational Area

The project, proposed as part of a partnership with real estate firm Related Companies, also features a series of office spaces, bars, a residential building, and a generous 5.6-acre park that will be used as a neighborhood recreational area.

The mega complex would be 80 stories high, revamping the city’s skyline.

As explained by Wynn Resorts’ chief communications and brand officer, Michael Weaver, while the total development cost for the Western Hudson Rail Yards complex may be as high as $12 billion, the “development cost for the Wynn New York City gaming resort is approximately $5.7 billion, excluding licensing fees and financing costs.”

One of the most significant costs would be related to the adaptation and renovation of the abandoned Hudson Yards railway site.

Wynn Resorts’ chief executive officer, Craig Billings, explained that Wynn New York City would “attract luxury and aspirational travelers” to their destination resort in Hudson Yards.

He argued that Wynn guests usually spend more while traveling, thus generating higher tax revenue for the city and state and more spending in the local community while lowering the foot traffic compared to other resorts.

Additionally, the new resort could create as many as 40,000 open employment positions, roughly 35,000 in construction, and 5,000 permanent positions within the facility.

If it would have been awarded a license, the resort would need to cover a license fee of $500 million.

In February, Wynn Resorts announced it boosted its Las Vegas Resort fees for guests from $45 to $50.

Strong Competitors on the Horizon

While the facility looks promising, it has a few strong competitors over the three available licenses for downstate casinos provided by the New York State Gaming Commission.

For instance, in 2023, New York Mets’ owner, Steve Cohen, also spoke about their plans to build a similar 50-acre development that would surround Citi Field in Queens.

Metropolitan Park, which is the project’s name, would incorporate conference spaces, restaurants, and a Hard Rock hotel featuring gaming and live music.

The project would generate around 15,000 new jobs for the people of New York.

Resorts World is also busy improving user experience amid the fierce competition. Its Queens casino has revealed a redevelopment plan valued at $5 billion that would change the venue into a “world-class” resort for entertainment purposes.

At the moment, Resorts World New York City only provides slots and horse racing.

The promising project would include a performance space, a series of shops, 1,600 brand-new hotel rooms, and a casino inspired by the Las Vegas gaming market.

The fate of the project will be eventually settled by Resorts World’s capacity to get one of the three licenses.

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Jack Daniel Mars III, one of the players involved in the scheme, has now been charged alongside the two accused casino employees

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A third individual has been implicated in what authorities are dubbing a “complex cheating conspiracy” at Rivers Casino, Pittsburg. The unfolding saga involves accusations of fraudulent activities at a Roulette table, resulting in substantial losses for the establishment.

Investigation Uncovers Alleged Cheating Scheme at Rivers Casino

The latest development follows earlier reports that surfaced last week, detailing the involvement of two Rivers Casino employees, Robin Schnepp and Anthony Laush, in facilitating cheating maneuvers on multiple occasions, leading to significant monetary gains for certain players.

State police, who have been diligently investigating the matter, disclosed that the casino incurred losses exceeding $10,000 due to the alleged cheating tactics employed. The investigation was prompted by an anonymous letter received by Rivers Casino earlier this year, shedding light on suspicious activities surrounding the Interblock Roulette game.

According to authorities, surveillance footage captured instances where Schnepp purportedly manipulated the roulette ball, causing it to deviate from the prescribed spinning method. This discrepancy in the ball’s trajectory triggered errors in the game’s sensors, enabling players to continue placing bets even after the outcome had been determined.

It is alleged that both Schnepp and Laush collaborated in validating these erroneous spins, ultimately resulting in fraudulent winnings totaling thousands of dollars for the involved players.

Jack Daniel Mars III Joins Accused Casino Employees in Facing Charges

In a surprising twist, one of the implicated players, identified as Jack Daniel Mars III, now finds himself facing charges alongside the accused casino employees, reported WPXI. State police are actively seeking to identify another individual allegedly complicit in the deceitful scheme, urging anyone with pertinent information to come forward and assist with the investigation.

The ramifications of this elaborate scheme extend beyond mere financial losses for the casino. Authorities express concerns regarding the potential involvement of additional players and emphasize the need for a thorough review of existing security measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

In response to these troubling revelations, Rivers Casino has pledged full cooperation with law enforcement agencies and has initiated comprehensive reforms to enhance the integrity of its gaming systems.

Furthermore, both Schnepp and Laush, who have been released on bail, are scheduled to appear for preliminary hearings on April 2, marking a crucial phase in the ongoing legal proceedings.

This occurrence represents yet another instance of suspected illicit behavior among casino employees. In December, there was an incident where a manager at Rivers Casino in Pittsburgh allegedly absconded with $20,000 from the cashiers’ cage, prompting concerns regarding the trustworthiness of the staff.

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The lucky Caesars Rewards Member secured the largest jackpot from the platform since its launch last year

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The leading casino entertainment company with a strong presence within the online gambling sector, Caesars Entertainment, announced that one lucky player from New Jersey secured a whopping $400,000 jackpot while playing at Caesars Palace Online Casino. The player, identified as Craig W., of Newfoundland, New Jersey, was enjoying the Da Vinci Deluxe Ways on his smartphone. The lucky player was pleasantly surprised after hitting the game’s jackpot, a whopping $436,898.

The six-figure win represents the largest prize won on Caesars Palace Online Casino to date. The iGaming platform was launched by Caesars back in 2023. In addition to Caesars Palace Online Casino, Caesars’ online casino portfolio includes Caesars Sportsbook & Casino, Harrah’s Online Casino, Tropicana Online Casino as well as WSOP.COM.

To celebrate the winner of the largest jackpot on Ceasars Palace Online Casino so far, the leading gaming and hospitality company hosted a special check presentation ceremony for Craig and his friends. The celebratory event included a complimentary stay at Tropicana Atlantic City, including a dinner at il Verdi.

Caesars confirmed that the lucky player treated himself to a new car, bought in cash. Moreover, Craig used the money from the jackpot to settle a small debt. More importantly, the lucky player also shared the winnings with his family and friends.

Caesars Is Excited to Celebrate with the Big Winner

Matthew Sunderland, Caesars Digital’s SVP and chief iGaming officer, shared his excitement about the latest announcement. He said that the company is proud to offer its guests and iGaming customers exceptional experiences. “Congratulations are in order for Craig and his exciting jackpot win that represents the biggest win we’ve seen so far on our new platform, Caesars Palace Online Casino,” added Sunderland. Finally, the executive explained that Caesars is excited about the opportunity to host a party for the lucky winner and his friends, celebrating the historic jackpot win.

Craig recalled the moment when he won the mouth-watering prize. He said that his initial reaction was: “This can’t be real life! You see and hear about people winning a jackpot, but I never thought it would happen to me.”

Recently, Caesars confirmed it extended its long-term deal with the National Hockey League (NHL). Announced earlier this month, the collaboration enabled the operator to continue serving as the NHL’s official sports betting and gaming partner.

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In response to recent assertions made by NewsNation, MGM Resorts refuted reports indicating that Bruno Mars was in debt for as much as $50 million due to gambling losses

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Amid swirling rumors of Bruno Mars accumulating massive gambling debts, MGM Resorts has stepped forward to quash the speculations, asserting that the acclaimed singer-songwriter is not indebted to the casino giant.

MGM Resorts Clarifies Bruno Mars’ Financial Status

Responding to recent claims from media outlet NewsNation, MGM Resorts dismissed reports suggesting that Mars owed up to $50 million in gambling losses. The company, in a statement issued March 18, emphasized its enduring partnership with Mars, labeling any insinuation of financial indebtedness as “completely false.”

MGM Resorts commented to The Las Vegas Review-Journal that they were proud of their relationship with Bruno Mars, emphasizing that his brand of entertainment, from his energetic performances at Dolby Live at Park MGM to the newly opened Pinky Ring lounge at Bellagio, has a global appeal.

The statement elaborated that the partnership between MGM and Mars is founded on mutual respect. It asserted that any speculation suggesting otherwise is unfounded, reiterating that Mars does not owe any debt to MGM.

The rumors, originating from an unnamed source cited by NewsNation, alleged that Mars was using earnings from his performances to offset substantial gambling losses. The source purported that Mars earns around $90 million annually from his residency deals with MGM, but after tax deductions, his net earnings amount to roughly $1.5 million per show.

Contrary to these claims, MGM Resorts firmly denies Mars’ indebtedness, emphasizing that his collaboration with the company spans multiple ventures, including his ongoing residency at Park MGM and the recent partnership on the Pinky Ring lounge at Bellagio.

Bruno Mars’ Influence Remains Strong Amidst Casino Speculations in Las Vegas

Mars, whose affinity for the casino tables has been previously noted, has not publicly addressed the recent rumors. However, past interviews have showcased his candidness about gambling experiences, highlighting the lessons learned from occasional losses.

The Grammy-winning artist has been a fixture in the Las Vegas entertainment scene since 2016, captivating audiences with his chart-topping hits and dynamic stage presence. His enduring partnership with MGM Resorts underscores his significant contribution to the city’s vibrant entertainment landscape.

As mentioned above Bruno Mars recently launched The Pinky Ring at Bellagio Resort & Casino. The new venture debuted with an exclusive party and performance, attended by celebrities like Lady Gaga and T-Pain, featuring surprise acts from Janelle Monáe and others.

The venue, curated by Bruno himself, promises an immersive experience in timeless glamour and remarkable artistry, with The Hooligans as the resident house band for the initial weeks.As MGM Resorts and Bruno Mars continue to collaborate on innovative ventures, the casino giant reaffirms its commitment to providing unparalleled entertainment experiences for its patrons, dispelling any notions of financial discord with the celebrated performer.

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The survey also understood that adult men were slightly more likely to support casino gaming

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Survey USA, a professional polling firm, was contracted by WRAL News to see how consumers in North Carolina feel about Las Vegas-style casino resorts. As it turns out, the people in the state, who just received online betting, are strongly supportive of the potential legalization of commercial casino resorts.

Survey USA polled 850 adults and learned that 55% of them support the creation of casinos in rural parts of North Carolina. For comparison, only 28% of the respondents remained strongly or somewhat opposed to casino gaming. The rest of the respondents remained neutral.

The survey also understood that adult men were slightly more likely to support casino gaming. Survey USA pointed out that 61% of the male respondents and 65% of the respondents aged 35-49 supported Vegas-style gaming.

Survey USA’s poll echoes the results of a recent survey by Meredith Poll from the private women’s liberal arts college in Raleigh, which found that 57% of voters support commercial casinos.

Not All Lawmakers Approve of Casino Gaming

Casino supporters in North Carolina have been trying to get casino gaming legalized for a while. While the local constitution does not prohibit gambling and therefore no constitutional changes are needed, casinos remain a point of contention.

For reference, North Carolina currently boasts three tribal casinos. The state recently launched online sports betting, expanding its gaming industry.

In 2023, Senator Phil Berger tried to get casino gaming launched, envisioning three commercial properties in Anson, Nash and Rockingham. His effort had attracted the interest of The Cordish Companies but ultimately failed.

Berger argues that casino resorts are more than mere gaming properties. He refers to them as entertainment districts, arguing that they go beyond gambling.

Republican lawmakers critiqued Berger’s effort, saying that gaming expansion should be considered separately and not as a part of the state’s budget plan.

In the meantime, supporters of Vegas-style gaming will have another shot at getting commercial casinos legalized as the 2024 legislative session looms. While many argue that casino resorts would provide a strong boost to rural economies, some influential lawmakers argue that the state should focus on other initiatives to develop the rural ecosystems instead.

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The foreigner-only zones required gamblers to be separated in private rooms, something that MGM Resorts resolved by using innovative chip tracking technology

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Casino gambling, wagering on sports and iGaming activities are prohibited in China. The country has tough laws when it comes to gambling, but an exception is applied to Macau, a popular tourist destination and a special administrative region (SAR) of China.

Although the city offers casino gambling, the crackdown against the activity extended from China with a request for Macau to implement foreigner-only gambling halls. This came in an effort to track their activities and determine what part of the operators’ revenue comes from foreign tourists.

Details regarding the new requirement first emerged a couple of years ago toward the end of 2022. Despite the requirement, separating foreign casino visitors was significantly unpopular and the gambling operators quickly identified this trend along with the need for an effective way to track the activities of foreign visitors.

Bill Hornbuckle, MGM Resorts’ CEO and president, participated in the J.P. Morgan Gaming, Lodging, Restaurant and Leisure Management Access Forum, as announced by IAG. During the event on Friday, the executive spoke about the ineffectiveness of the foreigner-only gambling zones, uncovering details regarding an innovative solution the company used to tackle the issue.

Hornbuckle said that with the implementation of the new requirements for foreigner-only visitors, operators faced a challenge as they had to establish private rooms for gamblers from different jurisdictions. This otherwise separated the visitors and turned out to be a significantly unpopular method.

The Chip in Chip Technology Brings Benefits

Addressing the need to track the gambling activities of foreign gamblers in Macau, MGM Resorts implemented a new “chip in chip” program. The company’s CEO and president spoke about the benefits of this technology, outlining that it allows the venue to track every chip and at the same time reduce gaming errors. According to Hornbuckle, the technology also played an important role in the back-end operations, including financing and accounting.

“We put in a ‘chip in chip’ program several years ago where basically every chip is tracked, and the benefit at the time was no errors to the game, you knew exactly where to put your labor, there were a bunch of back-end benefits as well in terms of accounting and financing, and it was meaningful.“

Bill Hornbuckle, CEO and president at MGM Resorts

Calling the technology a huge advantage, the executive said that tracking the activities of foreign players is easy. At the same time, Hornbuckle said that customers from different jurisdictions are not separated from each other, which contributes to the customer experience. Finally, MGM Resorts’ boss said that the gambling regulator in Macau approves the technology considering its effectiveness.

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