Weekend Conversation Corner – September, 12
Welcome to the most recent instalment of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, where we provide a brief overview of the week’s most important headlines that have captured global interest. In this summary, we will discuss the key stories that have shaped the narrative, impacted policies, and sparked conversations. Join us as we cut through the clutter and offer a concise summary of the week’s significant developments, keeping you informed on what truly counts in today’s ever-changing world.
Stay informed, stay inspired, and keep gaming on. Have a fantastic weekend!
Decision on proposed Avenir casino in Manhattan could go either way
The $7bn Avenir casino project in Manhattan faced divided public opinion during committee hearings, with supporters highlighting economic benefits and job creation while opponents expressed concerns about neighbourhood safety. Silverstein Properties proposed a 1,000-room Hyatt hotel, casino, and residential units, receiving support from unions and advocacy groups. The Community Advisory Committee now has until September 30 to decide whether to advance the project for one of three available downstate New York casino licenses. The Facility Location Board will evaluate proposals based on economic development, local impact, workforce development, and diversity initiatives, with winning bids announced by December 1. Applicants are also invited to propose tax rates, aiming to compete with online sports betting rates to attract investors.
Magali Clavie, BGC: “We are convinced of the added value of international cooperation… We are all facing similar challenges and have a lot to learn from other countries’ experiences”
Magali Clavie, President of the Belgian Gaming Commission, discussed the Commission’s priorities and regulatory changes for 2025 in an exclusive interview with Focus Gaming News. The year saw the implementation of new rules, including raising the minimum gambling age to 21. Clavie highlighted challenges in enforcing strict advertising bans and concerns over young players turning to unlicensed platforms. The Commission aims to strengthen enforcement, enhance consumer protection, and modernise its regulatory framework ahead of a planned structural reform in 2026. Collaboration with international regulators, like the Irish Gambling Regulatory Authority, is crucial for data exchange and learning from other countries’ experiences. Key priorities for the Commission include increasing staff capacity, gaining independence, and adapting to the evolving gambling sector’s needs.
Swedish gambling regulator names Johan Röhr as acting director general
Johan Röhr will serve as the acting director general of the Swedish gambling regulator, Spelinspektionen, following Camilla Rosenberg’s departure on November 1. Röhr, currently head of the legal department, will ensure continuity until a new director general is appointed. Rosenberg has led the regulator since 2017 and oversaw the opening of the regulated online gambling market in 2019. Under her leadership, initiatives such as gaming supplier licenses, deposit limits during the pandemic, and new powers for the regulator were introduced. The regulator is also consulting on new regulations for the national gambling self-exclusion register, Spelpaus.se. Licensees will need to adhere to specific connection details, and comments on the proposal can be submitted until September 24. Additionally, two operators, Bitx Operations N.V. and Ryker B.V., have been banned from targeting Swedish customers.
California bill to ban sweepstakes gaming approved by the Senate
Assembly Bill 831, proposing a ban on online sweepstakes gaming in California, has passed the state Senate with a 36-0 vote. The bill now returns to the Assembly for approval from the Governmental Organisation Committee before reaching Governor Gavin Newsom for final authorisation. It aims to prohibit sweepstakes games using a dual currency model, with support from various tribal groups. The bill was amended to exempt sweepstakes offered for marketing purposes. However, the Social Gaming Leadership Alliance opposes the bill, citing concerns about limiting economic options for tribes. Montana recently became the first US state to ban online sweepstakes gambling, with the law set to take effect on October 1.
Harper Ko, IAGA: “The global gaming industry stands at a critical inflexion point”
The article is an exclusive interview with IAGA President Harper Ko, discussing the association’s global role, industry challenges, and priorities. Founded in 1980, the International Association of Gaming Advisors has evolved into a global forum connecting regulators, operators, suppliers, and advisors. The interview covers IAGA’s core mission, evolution, achievements, and challenges facing the global gaming industry. Key issues include illegal markets, regulatory ambiguity in emerging US segments, and the role of artificial intelligence in gaming operations and regulation. The article emphasises the importance of responsible gaming, collaboration between regulators and industry stakeholders, and the need for robust regulation to combat illegal gambling markets. Ko outlines priorities for IAGA, including advancing thought leadership, engaging with regulatory organisations, enhancing member engagement, and ensuring long-term financial sustainability.
Dutch gambling regulator recognises flaws in risk analysis system
The Dutch gambling regulator, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), has acknowledged flaws in its risk analysis system for online gambling licensees. The current system is deemed ineffective and costly, providing little extra protection for players. The KSA’s investigation revealed inconsistencies in the results of risk analyses conducted by online providers, leading to difficulties in comparison. Talks have begun with the Ministry of Justice and Security to improve the system for determining risk analysis. Additionally, the KSA is updating its Remote Gambling Licensing Policy Rules for the upcoming renewal period in October 2026. New obligations include informing the KSA about policy changes, providing an exit plan for license expiration, and complying with court rulings to ensure reliability for license renewal. Existing market players will undergo reassessment in various aspects for license renewal.
