Weekend Conversation Corner – June, 06
Welcome to the most recent edition of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, where we provide a brief overview of the week’s top headlines that have captured global interest. As we analyse the events of the week and summarise them in a clear and focused manner, we will discuss the key stories that have influenced discussions, policies, and overall narratives. Join us as we cut through the noise and offer a concise summary of the week’s significant developments, keeping you informed on what truly matters in today’s rapidly changing world.
Stay informed, stay inspired, and keep gaming on. Have a fantastic weekend ahead!
Regulatory framework for basketball betting in Hong Kong submited to Legislative Council
The government in Hong Kong is proposing a 50 per cent tax on net profits from basketball betting. Secretary Alice Mak Mei-kuen has submitted a regulatory framework to the Legislative Council under the Betting Duty Ordinance. The proposal includes issuing licenses, amending responsibilities of the Lottery Board, and implementing harm-reducing restrictions. A survey showed 94 per cent support for legalising basketball betting. The proposal aims to combat illegal gambling and redirect players to legal avenues. The Hong Kong Jockey Club is interested in incorporating NBA betting if allowed, estimating that legalising could redirect 60 per cent of illegal bettors. Illegal sports betting in Hong Kong is valued at HK$350bn annually, with basketball accounting for 15 per cent An investment of HK$1.5-2.5bn would be needed for infrastructure.
ACMA raps 4 betting operators for breaching self-exclusion rules
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) found that Buddybet, Ultrabet, VicBet, and Topbet breached rules by sending marketing material to self-excluded individuals registered with BetStop. Buddybet failed to close accounts of self-excluded individuals and has left the Australian market. Ultrabet reopened accounts for those who had self-excluded and sent marketing materials to others, leading to a review of compliance systems. VicBet and Topbet received warnings for similar violations. According to the Interactive Gambling Act 2001, betting providers must close accounts of self-excluded individuals and refrain from sending marketing materials to them. ACMA emphasised the importance of respecting self-exclusion decisions and warned of consequences for non-compliance.
Japan’s lower house approves bill to ban online casinos
The article discusses Japan’s House of Representatives approving a bill to ban the promotion of online casino sites in the country. The legislation aims to amend the Basic Law for Countermeasures against Gambling Addiction and is expected to be enacted during the current parliamentary session. The proposal received a majority vote and will now be debated in the House of Councillors. The Council for Sports Ecosystem Promotion reported significant amounts being wagered on offshore sports betting sites in Japan, prompting the government to crack down on online gambling. The National Police Agency revealed that millions of people in Japan engage in online gambling, leading to legal action against professional baseball players involved in online casino gambling.
Macau sees best monthly GGR since Covid-19
In May, Macau’s gross gaming revenue reached MOP21.19bn, showing a 1.7 per cent increase from the previous year and a 12.4 per cent rise month-on-month. This growth was attributed to the Labour Day holiday period, which brought 850,034 visitors to the city. The revenue for the first five months of 2025 was MOP97.7bn, up 1.7 per cent year-on-year. Citigroup forecasts GGR to reach MOP21bn, while Jefferies expects it to reach MOP240bn for 2025. Moody’s maintained Macau’s long-term credit rating at Aa3, citing strong fiscal and external positions but with a negative outlook due to potential risks in economic activity.
Sri Lanka government publishes draft Gambling Regulatory Authority bill
The article discusses the draft bill in Sri Lanka to establish a Gambling Regulatory Authority, which has been approved by the Cabinet of Ministers and is now closer to a parliamentary vote. If passed, the new regulator would oversee all forms of gambling in the country, including online gambling and activities in the Colombo Port City. The bill aims to update existing ordinances related to gambling and improve tax collection while preventing illegal gambling. Additionally, City of Dreams Sri Lanka has opened its Phase I in Colombo, with Phase II expected to open later this year. Bluehaven Services, a subsidiary of Melco Resort, holds a 20-year license for the project.
PAGCOR board submits courtesy resignations to the Philippine president
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) board, including Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco, has submitted courtesy resignations to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr amid a potential mass reorganisation of government departments. This move is to give the president “a free hand” in restructuring the regulator. Following disappointing midterm election results, Marcos requested resignations from all cabinet secretaries, agency heads, and advisers. However, the PAGCOR board’s resignations are seen as a formality and unlikely to be accepted. PAGCOR recently remitted US$228m to the National Treasury, representing 75 per cent of its net income for 2024, in compliance with Republic Act No. 7656. Chairman Tengco stated that this remittance aligns with the Finance Secretary’s directive to support government spending.
