Weekend Conversation Corner – March, 21

Welcome to the most recent instalment of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, where we provide a brief rundown of the week’s top headlines that have captured global interest. As we break down the flurry of events into a concise summary, we will highlight the key stories that have shaped the conversation, impacted policies, and sparked discussions. Join us as we cut through the clutter and offer a condensed look at the week’s key developments, keeping you informed on what really counts in today’s fast-paced world. Stay in the know, stay motivated, and keep on gaming. Wishing you a fantastic weekend ahead!

Fernando Saffores – Founder and CEO at Focus Gaming News

Philippine authorities raid alleged illegal gambling operation in Makati City

In the Philippines, a raid on an alleged offshore gaming operation in Makati City led to the arrest of 131 individuals, including 96 foreigners and 35 Filipinos. The operation involved the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, Department of Justice Office of Cybercrime, and Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group. The arrested individuals face charges related to human trafficking, illegal gambling, and cybercrime. Among the suspects are three Chinese nationals identified as bosses of different sub-companies. In a separate development, the Philippine Bureau of Immigration is calling for cooperation to combat the illegal departure of Filipino trafficking victims to work in scam operations. The agency emphasizes the need for enhanced coordination with local authorities to prevent such illegal activities.

L&GNSW to conduct compliance inspections

L&GNSW inspectors are conducting compliance operations in regional venues to ensure adherence to gaming regulations promoting responsible gambling. They are checking for compliance with rules on gambling signs, ATM locations, and the appointment of responsible gambling officers. Recent inspections in Sydney revealed non-compliance leading to penalties. The report by Equity Economics for Alliance for Gambling Reform and Wesley Mission found that Australian adults lost AU$1,527 (US$960) each in gambling losses in 2022-23, totalling AU$31.5bn (US$19.8bn). They urge the government to implement 31 recommendations from the Murphy Inquiry, including a ban on gambling ads and inducements, a levy on gambling for harm reduction programs, and the introduction of a national regulator and gambling ombudsman. Mandatory cashless gaming and closure of gambling machines between midnight and 10 am are also recommended.

Philippine gross gaming revenue rises 25% in 2024

Alejandro Tengco, CEO of PAGCOR, reported a 25 per cent increase in Philippine gross gaming revenue in 2024, reaching PHP410bn. Brick-and-mortar casinos contributed PHP201bn, while E-Games and E-Bingo generated PHP154.5bn, a 165 per cent rise. The e-games sector met its PHP100bn goal by September, attributed to reduced fees for e-games. Despite a ban on offshore gambling operators, domestic electronic gaming remains unaffected. Tengco emphasized PAGCOR’s commitment to regulating electronic gaming to combat illegal operators and ensure market integrity. He reassured stakeholders of continued efforts towards responsible gaming.

ACMA blocks 2 more offshore websites

The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has requested Australian ISPs to block two gambling websites, Crown slots and Billy billion, for violating the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. This action is part of ACMA’s efforts to block unlicensed interactive gambling services and advertisements for prohibited services, with over 1,178 sites blocked since November 2019. The regulator emphasizes the importance of checking if a wagering service is licensed in Australia for consumer protection. Additionally, ACMA warned Foxtel for breaching gambling ad rules by not including a responsible gambling message in a virtual banner during an AFL match. Foxtel has taken steps to rectify the issue and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

Harmen Brenninkmeijer: “To maintain its leading position, Macau should continue focusing on its strengths while also broadening its offerings”

Harmen Brenninkmeijer, chairman and managing partner of NYCE International, discusses the evolving Asian gaming market and its impact on Macau. With increasing competition from other hubs like Singapore, the Philippines, Japan, and Thailand, Macau faces challenges in maintaining its position as the “Las Vegas of Asia.” To stay ahead, Macau is diversifying beyond gambling and focusing on non-gaming attractions to attract a wider audience. The potential legalisation of casino gaming in Thailand could further shake up the Asian gaming market, positioning Thailand as a major player. While online gambling regulation could offer economic growth opportunities for Macau, strict Chinese regulations pose challenges. Overall, Macau must innovate and adapt to remain a premier gaming and entertainment destination in Asia amidst growing competition.

Mongolia passes draft law to legalise sports betting

The Mongolian government has passed a law allowing licensed sports betting while banning all other forms of gambling to protect against fraud and crime and prevent money from leaving the country. New penalties for illegal gambling include fines of up to MNT1,000 (US$28.83) and penalties for facilitating illegal gambling through personal accounts, payment platforms, money exchange services, or telecom networks. Chief cabinet secretary Uchral Nyam-Osor cited economic crimes totalling MNT417.2bn (US$144m) in losses, with young people aged 18-39 being the main perpetrators. Despite efforts to restrict online gambling, sites continue to operate by changing their links. The government plans to amend laws to strengthen penalties and further prohibit such activities.