ASEAN Gaming Summit 2025 beats expectations, but there’s more to come!

AGBrief Editorial

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March 26, 2025

ASEAN Gaming Summit 2025 beats expectations, but there’s more to come!

The ASEAN Gaming Summit made yet another massive splash this year, welcoming over a thousand attendees, dozens of top industry expert panelists, over a dozen exhibitors and an expansive array of top sponsors.

The event’s focused format allowed for direct contact with speakers – for the audience to tap their knowledge before, during, or after their diverse and highly informative panels. Plus, networking opportunities were a shining light again this year.

The industry was also celebrated extensively during the Asia Gaming Awards, which took place on 18th March – shining the spotlight on industry pillars, up-and-comers and specific products that push the meaning of cutting edge.

Pre-empted with a day of special workshops aimed at exploring leadership and management opportunities, jurisdictions, regulations, compliance and opportunities, the event quickly accelerated over the following two information-packed days.

Top array of regulators, experts and industry heads

The first full day of the summit was opened by a special State of the Industry Address by the Chairman of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation – Alejandro H. Tengco.

Given the event’s location in Manila, the PAGCOR Chairman was quick to highlight the growth of the Philippines’ online sector – which shows extreme potential for continued success, as well as the diverse offerings from integrated resorts – as more properties open and redefine luxury.

PAGCOR Chairman lauds Philippine gaming industry’s resilience, rise of eGaming

A series of intense panels over the day examined everything from regulation to AI, KYC, the online market, the necessities of tech (and its rapid advancement), and emerging markets such as Thailand and the UAE.

Topping off the evening was the Asia Gaming Awards – which added special new categories this year and brought in new contenders to battle it out with established giants.

But that wasn’t all!

A full day of top-geared panels was kicked off with a deep dive into the origin of iGaming in the Philippines, moving into the future of gaming, tech and advertising.

Tailoring your approach to the younger generation of iGaming punters: Panel

Attendees were treated to a wealth of insights covering compliance, live tables, ETGs, non-gaming trends, and changing demographics.

This was all topped off with a look at what could happen next for Asia’s top gaming markets – what opportunities and shifts are there, and how to seize them.

Join us next year!

The party doesn’t stop in 2025, as the plans are already in motion for the ASEAN Gaming Summit 2026: scheduled to take place from 17-19th March 2026. Pre-register now: https://aseangaming.com/register/

Check out this year!

If you attended this year, be sure to visit Asia Gaming Brief’s social media channels, find yourself in the photos, and share them.

Also, check out highlight videos on the ASEAN Gaming Summit website.

Bowden suggested that Bet365 may be prioritizing its expansion in the US, where gaining market share is a key strategic objective. He also highlighted a growing divide between established “online gambling 2.0” businesses, which are focusing on regulated markets, and “3.0” crypto-driven platforms that operate with less regulatory oversight.

Bowden pointed out that established operators are increasingly moving toward fully regulated markets as grey-market opportunities diminish. While higher EBITDA margins are often found in grey or black markets, companies are under increasing pressure to adapt to stricter regulatory environments.

He also remarked that it seems unviable for businesses to operate in both regulated and grey markets simultaneously, adding that the ongoing shift could persist until a major crypto-driven platform achieves a significant breakthrough, such as an IPO or acquisition.

PhilWeb denies PlayTime backdoor listing reports

Philippines

Viviana Chan

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March 25, 2025

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Philippines-listed eGames service provider PhilWeb Corporation has firmly denied reports suggesting that the online gaming platform PlayTime is pursuing a backdoor listing through the company.

The eGames service provider clarified that it has had ‘no interactions, communications, or engagements’ with PlayTime.

The statement, issued via a filing with the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE), addressed both an exchange inquiry and a report by Bilyonaryo.

Following its initial filing dated March 24th, PhilWeb responded on March 25th to an inquiry from the PSE regarding an ‘unusual price movement’ in its shares, as the company’s stock declined nearly 30 percent, from PHP3.29 ($0.057) to PHP2.31 ($0.04) per share that same day.

In the document, PhilWeb attributed the drop to ‘market reactions’ following Bilyonaryo’s article, which was published on March 21st.

The company also clarified that it had no prior contact with the news platform or its representatives before the article’s publication, apart from its official response to the PSE.

PhilWeb stated that aside from its upcoming 2024 financial report, there are ‘no reportable or disclosable corporate events or activities at this time.’

PlayTime, launched in January 2024 and licensed by the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp (PAGCOR), states that it has over 20 million subscribers and approximately 2 million active users. The platform also says it is one of the fastest-growing online entertainment platforms in the Philippines.

Pragmatic Play rolls out first Fat Panda slot games

Elsewhere

AGBrief Editorial

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March 25, 2025

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Pragmatic Play rolls out first Fat Panda slot games

Pragmatic Play, a leading content supplier to the iGaming industry, has announced the release of two slots from Fat Panda, an exclusive new studio.

In Lucky Tiger, a 3×3 slot set against an opulent Far Eastern temple, when the same symbol occupies the entire grid, wins are boosted by a random multiplier ranging from 5x to 25x.

The Respin feature can trigger randomly on any spin. During the feature, only wilds and a randomly selected paying symbol can land. Each new paying symbol or wild that hits awards an additional respin.

Lucky Mouse takes place on a 3-4-3 grid where all wild symbols carry a random multiplier from 2x to 5x. The wild feature can be activated randomly, distributing up to 10 wild multipliers across the reels.

Featuring vibrant visuals and captivating characters, Fat Panda games are tailored for new and casual players in search of fast, simple gameplay with high hit rates and snappy win animations.

Irina Cornides, Chief Operating Officer at Pragmatic Play, said: “Fat Panda is a new studio creating exclusive titles for Pragmatic Play. Starting with Lucky Tiger and Lucky Mouse, Fat Panda games stand out for their simple features, playful graphics, and high win frequency.”

Luisiana Mayor Jomapher Uy Alvarez underscored the facility’s role in the town’s development as the local government prepares for the reconstruction of its municipal hall. “We are sincerely grateful for the timely completion of this socio-civic center which will be highly beneficial to our town,” he said.

“Our municipal hall has aged significantly, and with its planned reconstruction in 2025, this socio civic facility will serve as a crucial extension for local government operations,” Alvarez noted.

Sangguniang Barangay Member Joseph Pedron for his part emphasized the facility’s dual purpose for the community.

“This PAGCOR-funded socio-civic center will be a tremendous help to us,” he said. “It can accommodate evacuees in times of calamities, and given its well-built infrastructure, it can also generate income for our barangay and municipality,” he said.

Meanwhile, PAGCOR Assistant Vice President for Community Relations and Services Eric Balcos, who graced the facility’s inauguration, urged the residents to take responsibility for maintaining the building to ensure its long-term use.

PAGCOR opens a new socio-civic center in Laguna Town

“We ask that the community take good care of this center as if it were their own home so that future generations of Luisiana residents can continue to benefit from it,” Mr. Balcos said.

This comes amongst reports that The Stars largest shareholder – billionaire pokie businessman Bruce Mathieson – is backing a proposal from American casino giant Bally’s and could potentially contribute up to AU$50 million ($31.4 million) in capital if the deal is finalized with the American group.

Bally’s had previously proposed to inject capital into the struggling group in exchange for majority shareholding. At the time, Bally’s was proposing about AU$250 million ($158 million) for the stake in the casino operator.

The move also comes after The Star’s joint venture partners in Queen’s Wharf Brisbane – Hong Kong-listed Far East Development Corporation and Chow Tai Fook – aim to assume ownership of The Star’s 50 percent stake in Queen’s Wharf Brisbane.

The move to divest their stake in Queen’s Wharf Brisbane would significantly lighten the load of The Star in regards to debt while consolidating its stake in its Gold Coast assets bringing them to 100 percent ownership.

The divestment would also provide a transitionary period for The Star to relinquish its casino license for Queen’s Wharf Brisbane – ideally transitioning to its joint venture partners. Without such a casino license transition, the buyout would not make sense, given how essential the casino is to the multi-billion dollar property.

Good Morning: Looking out for the small guy. Authorities in Victoria, Australia, plan to trial carded play at around 40 venues by mid-2025 to promote responsible gambling, although the initiative has faced criticism for its delayed rollout and potential negative impact on smaller venues. Meanwhile, The Thai government’s proposal to legalize entertainment complexes with casinos has garnered significant public support, with approximately 80% of participants in a recent consultation backing the initiative, which aims to boost tourism and revenue while officials review legislative details to improve access for local patrons and address concerns over regulatory frameworks and casino access criteria.

What you need to know

Three-month carded play trial to take place in Victoria, expected implementation across state by year-end.
Thailand’s entertainment complex proposal receives strong public support but faces scrutiny over regulatory details and casino access restrictions.

On the radar

Direct flights now required for POGO-linked deportees.
US Supreme Court rejects Steve Wynn’s challenge to defamation standard.
Macau GGR at $1.82B in first 23 days of March: Citigroup.
UAE gaming market GGR to reach between $5 to $8 billion – Wynn CEO.

AGB Intelligence

AUSTRALIA

Criticism grows over delayed rollout of carded play in Victoria

Authorities in Victoria, Australia, plan to initiate a three-month trial of carded play at approximately 40 venues by mid-2025, following a recent legislative amendment that passed the Legislative Assembly. The proposed law aims to enforce requirements for carded play on poker machines in hotels and clubs, allowing patrons to make more informed spending choices. However, the bill has faced criticism for its delayed implementation and concerns about its impact on smaller venues and casual gambling. Additionally, the legislation seeks to introduce new spin rate limits for electronic gaming machines (EGMs) to slow play.

Industry Updates

A Gathering of the industry’s best at the ASEAN Gaming Summit 2025.
SOFTSWISS Deputy CTO honored at the 2025 Oracle Excellence Awards.
3 Oaks Gaming secures certification for Brazilian market.

Corporate Spotlight

UU Wallet: Bridging traditional finance and Web3 flexibility

UU Wallet unveils comprehensive Digital Finance Solutions at ASEAN Gaming Summit 2025

With a strong focus on security and efficiency, UU Wallet stands out with its instant cryptocurrency exchange capabilities and globally accepted prepaid card, making it a preferred choice for those navigating the complexities of digital finance.

INTELLIGENCE | ASEAN | CAREERS

He emphasized the region’s wealth, affluence, and growing population as key drivers for the project, which is set to open in 2027 and has already reached the 42nd floor in construction. Wynn Resorts holds a 40-percent stake in the project, partnering with Marjan LLC and RAK Hospitality Holding LLC.

Additionally, Wynn has secured an exclusive, renewable 15-year casino license for Ras Al Khaimah, with projections indicating the property could generate at least $1.33 billion annually in gross gaming revenue.

Billings noted that the resort’s location is just 50 minutes from Dubai International Airport, enhancing its accessibility.

In the UK, Wynn is also moving forward with the acquisition of Crown London (Aspinalls), a members-only casino in Mayfair, which Billings described as a strategically significant move to enhance the brand’s customer database and strengthen ties with patrons who frequent both London and the UAE.

He expressed confidence in the UAE market’s stability, stating that Wynn will be the sole operator for a significant period and that the region offers substantial potential for growth.

Thailand’s entertainment complex plan gains public support, faces scrutiny

Thailand

Viviana Chan

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March 25, 2025

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Thailand’s entertainment complex plan gains public support, faces scrutiny

The Thai government’s proposal to legalize entertainment complexes featuring casinos has received considerable public support, according to a recent public hearing.

While the initiative aims to boost tourism and generate revenue, officials are also exploring potential adjustments to ease access for local patrons as the draft legislation undergoes detailed review.

The public consultation held by Thailand’s Finance Ministry from February 28th to March 14th, 2025, revealed that around 80 percent of the 71,289 participants backed the draft law to introduce casinos within extensive entertainment complexes. However, the hearing also generated significant feedback on key elements of the proposed legislation.

Key legislative details under review

AGB came across the public consultation document, which highlights several key areas of the draft Entertainment Complex Business Act currently under review:

Definitions and Scope: Discussions emphasized the need for clearer definitions within the act. Specific suggestions focused on refining the definition of “Entertainment Complex Business” to explicitly include tourism, recreation, and entertainment services. The absence of a defined term for “gambling” was also noted.

Furthermore, there were calls for clarity regarding the qualifications and appointment process for “officials” overseeing these complexes. The role of the “Minister in charge” also sparked debate, with concerns raised about potential conflicts of interest.

Regulatory Framework: The proposed regulatory structure, including the Entertainment Complex Policy Committee and the Entertainment Complex Business Control Office, received mixed reactions.

Suggestions for the Policy Committee included expanding its authority to promote investment, monitor operations, and ensure public input.

For the Control Office, proposals focused on clarifying its objectives, organizational structure, and operational procedures. This included calls for enhanced transparency, robust anti-money laundering measures, and clear guidelines for licensing and enforcement.

Casino Access and Control: A major point of discussion centered on the criteria for Thai citizens’ access to casinos. The initial proposal of a THB50 million ($1.5 million) fixed deposit requirement drew criticism for being overly restrictive. Alternative suggestions included lower deposit thresholds, allowing other assets as collateral, or considering income verification.

The hearing also addressed concerns about responsible gambling, with recommendations for measures such as setting betting limits, implementing identity verification systems, and providing support for individuals with gambling problems.

The Thai government has acknowledged the feedback received during the public hearing and has indicated that it will carefully consider the suggestions as it refines the draft Entertainment Complex Business Act. Officials emphasized the importance of balancing the economic benefits of the proposed legislation with the need for robust regulatory oversight and responsible gambling measures.

The next steps will likely involve further review and revisions to the draft act before it is presented to Parliament for consideration. The government remains committed to creating a comprehensive and effective legal framework for the development of entertainment complexes in Thailand.

Despite the overwhelming support for the Finance Ministry’s public hearing, it is worth noting that just one day before, a poll conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA Poll) indicated that most Thai citizens are concerned about the government’s proposed entertainment complex policy.

Among the concerns raised were doubts about the policy’s economic effectiveness, fears of increased gambling addiction, and worries over potential money laundering activities.

Earlier this month, the Thai government confirmed that its Cabinet had delayed the final deliberation of the controversial casino bill, emphasizing the need for a thorough review and public consultation. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra assured that all concerns would be addressed before any decision is made.

The ASEAN Gaming Summit made yet another massive splash this year, welcoming over a thousand attendees, dozens of top industry expert panelists, over a dozen exhibitors and an expansive array of top sponsors.

Top array of regulators, experts and industry heads

But that wasn’t all!

Join us next year!

Check out this year!

Table of Contents

Britain-based online gaming platform Bet365 has informed its clients that it will cease operations in the Chinese market by March 27th, 2025.

Philippines-listed eGames service provider PhilWeb Corporation has firmly denied reports suggesting that the online gaming platform PlayTime is pursuing a backdoor listing through the company.

Pragmatic Play, a leading content supplier to the iGaming industry, has announced the release of two slots from Fat Panda, an exclusive new studio.

Table of Contents

On Friday, March 21, 2025, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) officially opened its 49th socio-civic center in this town, set to serve and benefit over 2,000 residents.

Table of Contents

Embattled Australian gaming operator The Star has announced that it has extended its refinancing possibility with Salter Brothers Capital to April 1st of 2025.

Table of Contents

Macau satellite casino operator Macau legend has released a profit warning, indicating that it is expecting a HKD$640 million ($82.32 million) loss for FY24 compared to a HKD$4.9 million ($630K) loss for 2023.

What you need to know

On the radar

AUSTRALIA

Industry Updates

Corporate Spotlight

Table of Contents

Wynn Resorts CEO Craig Billings estimated the UAE gaming market GGR could reach volumes ranging from $5 to $8 billion.

The Thai government’s proposal to legalize entertainment complexes featuring casinos has received considerable public support, according to a recent public hearing.

Key legislative details under review

Table of Contents

ENQUIRIES & SUBSCRIPTIONS

CONTACTS