TaDa Gaming, the award-winning slots and casino games provider, has been awarded its UKGC license, further strengthening its plans to expand into the UK market and expand its European presence.
With this key license now in place, TaDa Gaming is set to partner with UK operators, offering a rich multi-product portfolio and proven player engagement tools designed to diversify its content library and boost retention.
Following its successful ‘glocalisation’ strategy, combining global reach with localised content, TaDa Gaming continues to adapt its games for regional audiences. Flagship releases like Lucky Jaguar, developed specifically for Brazil, and Fortune Zombie for the US market, have demonstrated strong player performance and positive partner feedback.
As it sets its sights on the UK, TaDa Gaming is prepped to present its leading European titles, including Fortune Coins, Jackpot Joker and Legacy of Egypt at iGB L!VE 2025. Attendees will also have the chance to experience the popular Fish-Shooting slots through an interactive demonstration zone.
Delegates are invited to booth R20 to discover TaDa Gaming’s latest releases and partnership opportunities at ExCel London from the 2nd to the 3rd of July.
Ray Lee, Director of Business Development at TaDa Gaming, said: “Securing our UKGC license marks a significant step forward in our European expansion strategy. The UK is a core focus for us, and we are excited to connect with new partners ready to benefit from our diverse, glocalised content and powerful engagement solutions.”
Australia is set to implement the most comprehensive reform of its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing (AML/CTF) framework in a generation, with changes that will significantly expand regulatory oversight and shift the country’s entire approach to tackling financial crime.
Australia’s financial watchdog AUSTRAC CEO Brendan Thomas
The reforms, mentioned by Australia’s financial watchdog AUSTRAC CEO Brendan Thomas during the ACAMS Conference at The Assembly Australasia 2025, will expand AUSTRAC’s regulatory coverage from under 18,000 businesses to around 100,000, as so-called ‘tranche 2‘ entities — including real estate agents, lawyers, and accountants — are brought into the compliance regime.
“This is a momentous time for AML/CTF regulation,” said Thomas. “We’re about to embark on the most ambitious overhaul of Australia’s anti-money laundering laws in a generation… These reforms will enable us to be more effective in the fight against financial crime and the harm it causes Australia.”
Thomas mentioned that serious and organized crime is estimated to cost the country more than AU$68 billion ($42.2 billion) annually. AUSTRAC will now prioritize risks that span entire industries, with intervention strategies tailored for sector-specific threats. “We are shifting our regulatory approach from just looking at compliance to focus on outcomes and… the harms resulting from businesses failing to manage money laundering risks,” Thomas stated.
One example of the new strategy in action is AUSTRAC’s cryptocurrency Taskforce, established to oversee the growing number of crypto ATMs — which surged from 23 in 2019 to over 1,800 in 2025. The Taskforce uncovered that up to one in ten transactions may be linked to illicit activity, often involving victims over the age of 60. As a result, AUSTRAC has imposed stricter controls, including a AU$5,000 ($3,100) cash deposit limit and enhanced due diligence requirements.
AUSTRAC is also extending its focus to previously unregulated areas such as privately managed ATMs and cash-in-transit services. A recent investigation aided by AUSTRAC intelligence led to the arrest of four individuals involved in a AU$190 million ($118 million) laundering scheme using a security firm’s armored transport unit.
Collaboration remains central to AUSTRAC’s strategy. The agency’s Fintel Alliance — a partnership with major banks, digital currency exchanges, gambling operators, and law enforcement — will be expanded. Its new Collaborative Analytics Hub, used in a recent operation to analyze 50 million cash deposit data points, revealed criminal networks that are now facing enforcement actions.
AUSTRAC is also working with industry to co-develop the detailed ‘Rules’ accompanying the legislative reforms. These are expected to be finalized by August, ahead of the staged enforcement dates: March 31st, 2026, for tranche 1 entities and July 1st, 2026, for tranche 2.
“AML is a practice,” said Thomas. “We won’t be throwing the book at businesses who are trying to follow the law… But if a business is wilflully ignoring its obligation to enroll, they will be the focus of our enforcement efforts.”
As the pace and sophistication of financial crime accelerates — with criminals leveraging AI and online platforms — AUSTRAC’s evolution is aimed at ensuring Australia’s financial system remains resilient and secure.
“These historic reforms will help us close a number of gaps that organised crime is out to exploit,” Thomas concluded. “Together, we can deliver meaningful reform that will stamp out illegal activity and protect the Australian community from the harm it causes.”
Vietnam’s reactivated Van Don casino proposal marks a pivotal moment in the country’s evolving gaming policy, with industry expert Tim Nguyen stating it’s “only a matter of time” before access for local players becomes a permanent feature—at least for selected, well-regulated projects.
Tim Nguyen, Director of Fortuna Investments
In an interview with AGB, Nguyen, Director of Fortuna Investments and a 20-year veteran of the casino industry, called the development a “very encouraging signal” for Vietnam’s maturing gaming landscape.
“This reflects that Vietnam now has a more dynamic and pragmatic government—one that is increasingly open-minded about leveraging integrated resorts as a tool for economic growth,” said Nguyen. “The reactivation of the Van Don project, especially with the likely extension of the locals entry pilot, signals a strong move toward a more commercially viable gaming sector.”
Vietnam’s Ministry of Finance recently re-submitted a proposal to Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh for the long-delayed Van Don integrated resort. First approved by the Politburo more than a decade ago, the VND51.5 trillion ($2.16 billion) project would be located in Quang Ninh province’s Van Yen commune, near the UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay.
The large-scale integrated resort—expected to be developed in three phases over nine years—would include luxury accommodations and gaming facilities. A key component of the proposal is the inclusion of Vietnamese nationals under the country’s pilot program allowing limited local access to casinos.
Sun Group likely to lead investment
The Ministry has suggested that the Quang Ninh Provincial People’s Committee be empowered to select the project’s investor. While no final investor has been announced, Sun Group Corporation—Vietnam’s second-largest conglomerate—is reportedly leading the proposal. Of the total investment, VND7.7 trillion ($297 million) would be directly funded by the investor, with the remaining amount financed via bank loans.
Nguyen noted that while attracting foreign investors to a $2 billion casino project remains difficult, Sun Group is uniquely positioned.
“I think Sun Group will possibly take this on. It’s not just about economics—it’s also about politics and their long-term investment strategy in Quang Ninh,” he said. “They already have significant developments in the province, so it aligns with their portfolio.”
Still, Nguyen acknowledged that international investor interest remains cautious amid geopolitical uncertainties. “Look at the Ho Tram project. Its location isn’t ideal, yet a US investor committed billions. So anything is possible. Let’s see.”
Regional competition heating up
As Vietnam weighs its next steps, regional competition is intensifying. Thailand is moving ahead with legislation to legalize integrated resorts, which could transform the regional gaming landscape.
“Vietnam still holds a strong geographic and demographic edge,” Nguyen said. “But without a policy shift to allow regulated local access, it risks being left behind as Thailand, Japan, and the Philippines modernize their gaming industries.”
He added, “The window for competitive positioning is open—but closing fast. If Thailand allows local participation, it would become an instant regional powerhouse.”
Nguyen remains skeptical, however, about Thailand’s proposed model for local access. “I’m concerned that high entrance fees and strict conditions could become major obstacles to the success of Thailand’s casino industry.”
Rethinking Vietnam’s casino model
When asked how Vietnam can define its role in the regional gaming ecosystem, Nguyen emphasized that permitting local access is only part of the solution.
“Allowing locals is necessary but not sufficient,” he said. “Vietnam must define its casino industry by offering controlled but meaningful local access, strategic tourism zones, policy clarity, and a vision that integrates gaming into a broader hospitality and economic development model.”
Currently, Vietnam’s gaming industry consists of a limited number of integrated resorts including Hoiana and the Corona Casino on Phu Quoc, the only property that participated in the now-expired local access trial.
“If Vietnam doesn’t implement these reforms, it risks being squeezed between Thailand’s ambitions and the maturity of markets like Singapore and the Philippines,” Nguyen warned. “There is still a long way to go to catch up with regional leaders like Macau, Singapore, or even the Philippines.”
The proposed Van Don project, with a 70-year operational term and an aggressive three-phase rollout plan, could play a central role in Vietnam’s strategy to strengthen its entertainment and tourism offerings—if it secures regulatory approval and investor backing.
As discussions around local participation and investment mechanisms continue, Nguyen sees Van Don as a potential benchmark for the country’s future gaming policy.
“It’s a test case,” he said. “If Van Don proves successful under a regulated model with local access, it could set the stage for broader reforms and unlock the next phase of Vietnam’s gaming potential.”
Wynn Palace has reaffirmed its place among Asia’s finest by being honored as the “Best Hotel in Macau” at the 2025 Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific.
This is Wynn Palace’s third consecutive win since 2023, reaffirming its commitment to excellence and world-class service. The award also underscores Wynn Palace’s ongoing contributions to elevating Macao’s status as a World Center for Tourism and Leisure, solidifying its reputation as a top destination for luxury travelers.
Travel + Leisure is renowned as one of the world’s most authoritative travel media in the industry. Launched in 2023, The Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific highlight outstanding hotels, resorts, spas, and other travel brands across the Asia Pacific region.
With a panel of editors and expert contributors from the Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, and Macau edition of Travel + Leisure, nominees are meticulously selected through a rigorous evaluation process that employs a set of stringent criteria. The winners are selected through the discerning votes of readers, resulting in a comprehensive and sophisticated travel guide that serves travelers across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.
Wynn Palace offers 1,706 elegantly designed rooms, suites, and villas, complemented by its signature large-scale floral sculptures and rare art pieces. The Wynn Esplanade further enhances the resort’s appeal, featuring prestigious luxury retail brands from around the world.
Guests can immerse themselves in fascinating entertainment experiences, from soaring above the resort in the SkyCab to marveling at the mesmerizing eight-acre Performance Lake where water, music and light converge in a dazzling spectacle.
Introduced in 2023, llluminarium is an immersive, interactive attraction designed to captivate visitors with its stunning visual experiences. The property is home to award-winning signature fine-dining restaurants, casual eateries, the newly opened Asia’s most celebrated culinary landmark Gourmet Pavilion and a stylish bar, further positioning Macao as a ‘Creative City of Gastronomy’.
Thailand will block tourists who intend to visit Cambodia’s casinos via their country and impose stricter screening measures on travelers flying to Siem Reap for gambling, as part of a broader crackdown on cybercrime and rising cross-border tensions, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced on Monday.
According to ABC News, the move comes in response to deteriorating relations between the two countries.
As part of the new restrictions, Thai officials will stop cars and individuals attempting to cross into Cambodia, except in cases involving students, medical patients, or those purchasing essential goods. Details on how authorities plan to distinguish casino tourists from other travelers were not disclosed.
The Prime Minister also announced plans to cut internet access to Cambodian military and security agencies and hinted at potential export bans on goods that could support scam operations based in Cambodia. “We will coordinate with international agencies to counter cybercrime in the region,” she said, referencing a UN report that flagged Cambodia as a major hub for global scam centers involved in online fraud and illegal gambling.
In retaliation for Thailand’s actions, Cambodia has blocked internet services, electricity, and fuel supplies from Thailand, raising economic concerns for both nations.
The escalating tensions are already affecting the gaming industry. Border-casino operator Donaco International Ltd reported a 62 percent drop in daily visitor numbers and a 42 percent decline in hotel occupancy at its DNA Star Vegas resort in Poipet, Cambodia, after Thailand imposed travel restrictions in the wake of the May 28th clash. The company warned that these trends are likely to impact the venue’s profitability in June.
The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) has announced a PHP100 million donation to the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte for the construction of a world-class sports and research facility.
Alejandro H. Tengco, Chairman & CEO of PAGCOR
PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro H. Tengco emphasized the long-term benefits of the project which aims to help discover homegrown athletic talent and advance grassroots sports development in the Ilocos region.
“This project will not only uplift our athletes but will also inspire future generations and strengthen Ilocos Norte’s capacity to craft sustainable world-class sports programs,” Mr. Tengco said.
The grant will partially finance the Ilocos Norte Sports Institute and Research (INSPIRE) Training Development Center and Dormitory, a flagship project with a total cost of Php400 million.
Once completed, the INSPIRE complex will serve as a hub for high-level athletic training, sports science research, and athlete housing which should help raise the bar for sports development in Northern Luzon.
The INSPIRE facility underscores Ilocos Norte’s commitment to creating an environment where local athletes can thrive, compete at national and international levels, and access modern training and support systems.
Casino Filipino Ilocos Norte Branch Manager Danilo Tejano formally handed over the grant check to Senior Board Member Rafael Medina on behalf of Governor Matthew Manotoc during the turnover ceremony.
The Australian Leisure and Hospitality Group (ALH) has again been fined after self-reporting that it allowed three minors to gamble in its venues over four dates in 2024.
According to a release by the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC), the ALH was fined some AU$38,000 ($24,250) for the offenses, after pleading guilty to six charges.
The fact that the ALH self-reported was recognized as ‘a positive step’.
“Being accountable for wrongdoing demonstrates integrity, which has been a focus of the VGCCC’s ongoing work with gambling operators,” stated VGCCC CEO Suzy Neilan.
However, the executive did not step back her criticism of the events themselves, noting “it’s not enough to own up after the fact. Venues must be proactive about ensuring that minors do not access poker machine areas by ensuring they have in place appropriate systems, processes and staff.”
Particularly, Neilan noted that it is not acceptable for any Victorian clubs and hotels to be repeat offenders.
The fine relates to three separate cases involving a 17-year-old, a ‘child’, and a 14-year-old. The individuals, separately engaged in gaming in the Cramers Hotel in Preston, the Excelsior Hotel in Thomastown and the Mountain View Hotel in Glen Waverley.
All of the cases involved gambling on poker machines.
Neilan noted that the VGCCC will remain vigilant in prosecuting venues for illegal activities, noting that “I encourage all hotels and clubs to review their operations, including staff training, and consider making any adjustments required to ensure compliance with the law”.
Aside from the fine leveled, the ALH was also ordered to pay the VGCCC’s legal costs of AU$40,000 ($25,500). Due to the company self-reporting, it avoided the normally imposed fine of AU$90,000 ($57,000).
ALH has already been subject to numerous fines for other offenses, and the VGCCC is likely to keep a keen eye on its operations going forward.
Cantopop superstar Jacky Cheung’s concert series has emerged as a driving force behind Macau’s unexpectedly strong gaming performance in June 2025, defying the territory’s typical seasonal downturn, according to a new report from Citigroup.
Analysts George Choi and Timothy Chau’s latest table survey, conducted on the opening night of Cheung’s nine-show run from mid-June to early July at Galaxy Arena, revealed significant improvements across key gaming metrics. Citigroup attributes the positive findings directly to the concert series, noting that Galaxy Macau experienced a ‘significant improvement in foot traffic’ by hosting the performances.
The impact was most pronounced in premium mass gaming, where total wagers surged 58 percent year-on-year to HK$15.8 million ($2.03 million) so far during June 2025. The number of premium mass players increased 16 percent compared to June 2024, reaching 629 players, while average wager per player climbed 36 percent to HK$25,130 ($3,227).
Additionally, June’s average wager per player was only 12 percent lower than May 2025, which benefited from Labor Day holidays, and just 4 percent below Chinese New Year 2025 levels. This performance ‘bucked seasonal trends’ as June is typically Macau’s slowest gaming month.
The ‘whale’ segment (players betting HK$100,000 or more) also showed remarkable strength, with 35 high-roller players observed compared to 16 in June 2024. These players wagered a combined HK$7.6 million ($976,000), representing a 128 percent increase from the HK$3.3 million ($424,000) recorded in the same period last year.
Galaxy leads while competitors benefit
Galaxy maintained its leadership position in premium mass gaming with a 25 percent share, though this represented a decline from previous periods. Meanwhile, Wynn appears to be gaining share in premium mass gaming, recording a 35 percent share compared to 24 percent in June 2024.
Galaxy MacauWynn Palace
The concert’s benefits extended beyond Galaxy, as Citigroup noted that other operators are also capitalizing on the increased visitor traffic. Some casino operators have purchased concert tickets as complimentary gifts for their Grade-A players, creating a ripple effect across the gaming sector.
Based on these positive trends, Citigroup suggested that Macau’s gross gaming revenue (GGR) for June 2025 could exceed their forecast of MOP19 billion ($2.35 billion), which would represent a 5 percent year-on-year increase.
It is also worth noting that the Macau government reduced its forecast for the city’s 2025 GGR by about 5 percent earlier this month. The revised projection is MOP228 billion ($28.2 billion), down from its November forecast of MOP240 billion ($29.7 billion). The updated GGR figure represents a year-on-year growth of 0.5 percent, contrasting with the previous estimate’s projected 5.8 percent year-on-year gain on 2024’s GGR of MOP226.78 billion ($28.1 billion).
Good Morning. The Manila connection. The US Department of Justice has revealed a significant cryptocurrency laundering operation linked to Southeast Asian scams, involving a company with gaming links, the Manila-based firm ITECHNO Specialist Inc., and is seeking to forfeit $225 million in USDT laundered through a network of accounts used by organized crime groups for fraudulent activities. And now for something completely different, the Anjouan iGaming regulator has released further clarification and key updates regarding its new B2B License Recognition Certificate.
A recent civil forfeiture filing by the US Department of Justice has unveiled a significant cryptocurrency laundering operation linked to Southeast Asian scam networks, particularly involving a Manila-based firm, ITECHNO Specialist Inc., suspected of facilitating these activities. The DOJ seeks to forfeit around $225 million in USDT allegedly laundered through 144 accounts on the Seychelles-based crypto exchange OKX, which were used by organized crime groups executing “pig butchering” scams that deceive victims globally via fake investment platforms.
With over 30% of global gaming revenue projected to come from Asia soon, the window of opportunity is wide open. Bettorify’s white-label and turnkey solutions deliver what most platforms miss: sharp execution backed by real local expertise.
Failed Macau ultra-luxury hotel project The 13 has reportedly been sold to a new owner, potentially lending new life to the operation which was banking on a casino for success.
The brainchild of extravagant businessman Stephen Hung, The 13 initially sought to get a satellite casino license under Melco.
However, significant financial difficulties and the steady decline of opportunities resulted in the property only opening in 2018 for a brief period. The hotel closed between 2020 and 2024, under a renewed five-star license from the Macau Government Tourism Office (MGTO), which Macau News Agency reports as having been extended until the end of 2025.
The details of the purchase have yet to be disclosed, given that it’s covered by a Non-Disclosure Agreement.
This is not the first attempt to sell the property, which sits at the end of the Cotai Strip, with a previous listing for some HK$2.4 billion ($309 million) involving more than 20 potential buyers.
The property features ultra-luxury accommodation spread across 196 guest rooms, as well as three suites over 10,000 square feet in size.
All of the entities originally operating and owning the property have filed for bankruptcy, with the creditor – Bank of Communications Macau Branch, taking over the rights to the site, notes the publication.
