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Record $17.7 million Mark Six jackpot in Hong Kong split by two winners

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A record HK$138 million ($7.7 million) Mark Six jackpot from the Hong Kong Jockey Club was split between two winning tickets, after off-course betting stations were swarmed in anticipation.

According to media reports, the Central betting branch saw wait times of over 40 minutes for ticket purchases on Tuesday.

This comes after a recent January 2nd draw saw no first prize winners, after the prize reached HK$100 million ($12.86 million).

The HK$138 million figure is the highest in the history of Hong Kong’s Mark Six lottery.

Each of the main winners won HK$69.23 million ($8.9 million), while 14 winners got the second prize, totaling HK$844,560 ($108,600) per ticket. Total betting for this Mark Six reached about HK$328.8 million ($42.28 million) due to the intense interest.

During the 2023/2024 season, the HKJC registered HK$304.9 billion ($39.23 billion) in bets from customers, with HK$8.5 billion ($1.1 billion) bet on the Mark Six Lottery, a yearly rise of 13.3 percent.

Revenue from the lottery totaled HK$3.9 billion ($501.73 million) during the period.

The HKJC operates Hong Kong’s only horse race and football betting, alongside the Mark Six lottery. The HKJC has been the authorized operator of the Mark Six lottery since 1975.

Thai government starting discussions to legalize online gambling: report

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Thailand’s government is going to start preliminary discussions about legalizing online gambling even as the nation pushes to open its first casino by 2029.

Prasert Jantararuangtong, Thailand
Prasert Jantararuangtong, Deputy Prime Minister

According to the Bangkok Post, Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong has urged for officials from various involved ministries to work together to push through the legal amendments needed.

Prasert, also the Digital Economy and Society Minister, said that a plan should be completed within the coming few months.

The minister highlighted how properly taxed online gaming platforms could be “good for the economy”, despite admitting that the sector has been linked to criminal behavior, particularly among the youth.

Regarding the age limit on access for online gambling sites, Prasert indicated that the issue has not yet been discussed.

Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra over the weekend indicated that allowing regulated online gambling could be good for both the economy and society, instead of letting the sector flourish underground.

Former Thailand Prime Minister, Thaksin Shinawatra
Former Thailand Prime Minister, Thaksin Shinawatra

Thailand’s entertainment complex bill, allowing casinos to operate within large-scale venues, is expected to be passed by the Thai parliament this year. A top official previously expressed that the law should take at least six months to pass.

Currently under discussion are tax regulations, the overall number of licenses, and the proposed location of the casinos. The government is likely to initially grant five casino licenses: two in Bangkok and one each in Pattaya, Chiang Mai, and Phuket.

When initially proposed, Thailand’s move to legalize gambling in the country also included online gambling, which is already prevalent in the country despite being illegal and untaxed.

IPI sets $10M minimum bid for asset sale, seeks court approval

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Saipan casino operator Imperial Pacific International (IPI) and its unsecured creditors’ committee have asked the federal bankruptcy court to approve a bidding procedure for the sale of the casino’s assets, with a minimum bid set at $10 million in cash.

According to local media outlet Marianas Variety, a stipulation filed on January 4th proposes designating a stalking horse bidder, scheduling an auction, and setting procedures for asset assumption and assignment. A stalking horse bidder sets the baseline price for auctioned assets, attracting other bidders and ensuring fair pricing.

Earlier, the court rejected IPI’s proposed sale procedures and allowed the creditors’ committee to hire Intrepid Investment Bankers to market IPI’s properties for a higher sale price. IPI filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in April 2024, owing over $165.8 million. The company operated a casino on Saipan until the pandemic forced its closure in 2020.

The stipulation outlines that prospective bidders may bid on IPI’s assets, but not the casino license, and the sale will be subject to competitive bidding and court approval. IPI and the committee also propose a break-up fee for the stalking horse bidder.

A sale hearing is scheduled for March 25th, 2025, with bids due by February 21st, 2025. Qualified bids must meet specific requirements, including disclosure of bidders’ identities, connections with IPI or other bidders, and details about the assets and liabilities involved.

The stipulation was signed by Aram Ordubegian, representing the creditors’ committee, and Chuck Choi, representing IPI.

Daily Asia Gaming eBrief: Pacific Islands gambling-related crime on the rise

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Good morning. Unfortunately there can be a negative undercurrent to the gaming industry. And jurisdictions in the Pacific Islands are particularly vulnerable to the types of activities criminal groups aim to exploit via gambling-related operations, warns the United Nations. Key examples, such as Palau and Saipan, highlight how quickly money can be made, and how oversight can be manipulated. Meanwhile, Genting was happy to open up its new casino in Malaysia, however, analysts caution that the impact could be minimal as larger venues remain closed.

What you need to know


On the radar


AGB Intelligence

UNITED NATIONS REPORT

Saipan, Pacific Islands

A new report from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime Southeast Asia and the Pacific (UNODC) highlights new challenges brought about for Pacific Island Countries due to increased gambling-related crimes. Criminal groups aiming to expand their presence are using casinos for money laundering and human trafficking, sheltered by weak oversight and political influence. Regions such as Palau and Saipan have been targets for these operations, exploiting loopholes and relationships.


Industry Updates


Corporate Spotlight

1xBet’s 2024 Milestones: key achievements & heights of success

1xBet 2024 Milestones Key achievements and new heights of success

In 2024, 1xBet achieved significant breakthroughs and successes, solidifying its position in the iGaming industry. The brand secured major partnership deals, received prestigious awards, and showcased its innovations at the world’s leading forums.

Altenar brings premium sportsbook solution to Asia

Altenar brings premium sportsbook solution to Asia

Altenar, a leading sportsbook provider is bringing its global expertise to Asia, looking to expand its operations. Since 2011, Altenar has powered hundreds of online sports betting sites worldwide and is a major B2B provider in Europe and Latin America licensed markets.


MEMBERSHIP | INTELLIGENCE | ASEAN | CAREERS

AGEM Index fell by 4.8 percent in December

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The AGEM Index was muted in December, dropping by 4.8 percent from the prior month. However, compared to December of 2023, the Index saw healthy growth of 39.9 percent.

During the month, seven of the 12 Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers (AGEM) Index companies reported stock price increases, which resulted in nine negative contributions and three positive contributions to the AGEM Index.

The largest negative contribution to the monthly index was Aristocrat Leisure, whose 0.9 percent increase in stock price was offset by changes in the exchange rate between the US and Australian dollar, causing a 28.86-point loss for the index.

In addition, Light & Wonder booked a 9.1 percent stock decrease, causing a 19.14-point loss for the index.

Meanwhile, Ainsworth Game Technology saw its stock price increase by 15.3 percent, leading to a 0.49-point gain for the index.

Two of the three major US stock indices decreased in December. The NASDAQ rose by 0.5 percent over the month, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell by 5.3 percent and the S&P 500 fell by 2.5 percent.

Over the course of 2024, the AGEM Index rose by 34 percent, with 2024 marking the fifth-fastest growing year, just shy of 2021’s growth figures.

NUSTAR parent company appoints new President and CEO

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The parent company of NUSTAR Resort & Casino, in Cebu, Robinsons Land Corporation, has announced the resignation of its president and Chief Executive Officer and appointed Maria Socorro Isabella V. Aragon-Gobio as the new successor coming in to fill the role.

According to a filing by Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC), Lance Y. Gokongwei has stepped down from the dual role, with Maria Socorro Isabella V. Aragon-Gobio chosen as his successor.

Maria Socorro Isabella V. Aragon-Gobio, Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC)

The change comes into effect on February 1st, with Gokongwei retaining the position of Chairman of RLC.

‘With Mybelle Aragon-Gogio at the helm, we are poised to embark on a new era of transformative growth and innovation. Her commitment to synergy, customer-centricity, and operational excellence will undoubtedly strengthen RLC’s leadership in the real estate industry and deliver even greater value to our stakeholders,’ indicated the company in a statement.

Aragon-Gobio will be the first female president and CEO of RLC, having commenced her career with the company in 1993.

Before the change, Aragon-Gobio served as president and CEO of Robinsons Logistix and Industrials, Bonifacio Property Ventures Inc and Bacoor R&F Land Corporation.

1xBet’s 2024 Milestones: key achievements and new heights of success

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In 2024, 1xBet achieved significant breakthroughs and successes, solidifying its position in the iGaming industry. The brand secured major partnership deals, received prestigious awards, and showcased its innovations at the world’s leading forums.

Game-changing partnerships

1xBet is always one step ahead when it comes to collaborating with top sports organizations and celebrities. These sponsorships have helped the brand reach new audiences and boost its recognition worldwide.

One of the most notable moves was partnering with FIBA, the International Basketball Federation, which organizes most major national team tournaments. 1xBet also signed a deal with Volleyball World and is actively promoting volleyball. Additionally, Argentina’s leading esports team, Bestia, joined the brand’s partner network, while Indian actress and model Urvashi Rautela became the new ambassador for 1xBet Casino. Through its partnership with the Confederation of African Football, the company supports major African football tournaments. In some Asian countries, legendary Brazilian footballer Roberto Carlos will represent the brand.

A key strategic success for 1xBet was collaborating with Brazil’s Serie A and Serie B football leagues, as well as the Brazil national team during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. And that’s not all. The company has signed numerous contracts with other sports organizations, clubs, athletes, and celebrities:

  • Brazil: Carlos Barbosa (futsal club);
  • Burundi: Football Federation of Burundi;
  • Cameroon: Cameroonian Football Federation;
  • Gambia: Jizzl (musician);
  • India: Suresh Raina (cricketer);
  • Mexico: Guillermo Ochoa (footballer);
  • Nigeria: Bi Benard (sports blogger), Suo Chapele (the first female sports commentator in Nigeria), FROD (actor);
  • Philippines: Kai Sotto and Chris Newsome (basketball players);
  • Tajikistan: Muin Gafurov (UFC fighter);
  • Zambia: Kabwe Warriors (football club).

The partnerships of 1xBet span the globe. Each new agreement boosts brand recognition and highlights its contribution to sports development and the gambling industry.

Partnership with FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain

In 2024, 1xBet extended its contract with FC Barcelona, one of the most successful and famous football clubs in the world. The new deal runs until 2029, showing the bookmaker’s long-term commitment to partnerships with elite sports organizations. The company also continues its productive collaboration with another football giant, Paris Saint-Germain. Together with its partners, the brand runs large-scale promos and helps fans get closer to their idols.

Partnerships of this caliber highlight the ambition of 1xBet to be part of the biggest football events. At the same time, millions of fans get the chance to discover the world of sports betting.

1xBet in the iGaming arena: how the industry leader conquered world forums

In 2024, 1xBet actively participated in international exhibitions and forums, exchanged experiences with colleagues, discovered new opportunities for collaboration, and presented its product at the highest level. The brand became part of key industry events, including ICE London, SiGMA Eurasia, iGB L!VE, SBC Summit, and many others. 

Participation in exhibitions brought 1xBet recognition from experts and various international awards:

  • Affiliate Company of the Year at the International Gaming Awards;
  • Best Mobile Casino Experience at the SiGMA Eurasia Awards;
  • Best Sportsbook Operator in Africa at the SiGMA Africa Awards;
  • Best Esports Operator in Latin America at the SiGMA Americas Awards;
  • Best Affiliate Program 2024 at the SiGMA Asia Awards;
  • Digital Sports Betting Operator of the Year at the Global Gaming Awards Asia-Pacific;
  • Best Online Sportsbook 2024 at the SiGMA East Europe Awards;
  • Best Mobile Sports Betting App at the SiGMA Europe Awards.

These achievements confirm the highest operational standards of 1xBet, which enable the company to offer favorable conditions for partners and a unique gaming experience for its clients.

1xPartners: what to expect in 2025

The 1xPartners affiliate program will become even more user-friendly and efficient with important updates. The company plans to redesign the 1xpartners.com platform and the personal account to improve user experience. A new Event Calendar feature will also be available, allowing for better planning of activities. Additionally, the company’s development team will enhance analytical tools, helping partners assess their advertising campaigns more efficiently. In addition to technical changes, 1xPartners will actively grow its social media presence. These steps will improve interactions with existing partners and attract new ones.

2025 is set to be a year of change, but the priority of 1xBet will remain unchanged – quality and convenience for every partner.

Priority regions for development

Latin America 

The region is one of the strategically important markets where the company has significantly increased its presence. The brand received a license in Peru and is in the final stages of certification in Brazil, with plans to obtain licenses in Venezuela and Bolivia in 2025. A key step was sponsoring popular tennis tournaments under the WTA banner and collaborating with renowned Mexican footballer Guillermo Ochoa. The brand also actively supports FC Universidad Católica from Chile and FC Caracas from Venezuela, and, as part of a partnership with Bestia, was ready to invest $1 million in Argentine esports.

Asia 

Over the past year, the brand has been particularly active in Southeast Asian countries. In one year, the number of participants in the 1xPartners program in this region has doubled. Additionally, 1xBet increased its market share and boosted brand recognition through collaborations with Chris Newsome, Kai Sotto, and other partners.

India is another important region where 1xBet has made significant progress. Compared to last year, the platform’s audience has grown by 47%, the number of active players has increased by 60%, and the number of participants in the affiliate program has risen by 70%. This has been made possible by the bookmaker’s productive work during the IPL season.

In Thailand, 1xBet became a sponsor of the ESL tournament in Bangkok. The brand hosted the 1xFest pubstomp, which was attended by over 100 guests, and the event’s online broadcast attracted more than 70,000 viewers.

In Mongolia, 1xBet collaborates with The MongolZ esports team, which has shown phenomenal progress over the past year. It became the first Asian squad to reach the Perfect World Shanghai Major final stage. Over the year, The MongolZ participated in 22 tournaments, including 8 S-tier events, and won 6 major competitions, earning over $1 million in prize money. Today, the team ranks 7th in the HLTV ranking and 4th in the Global Valve Ranking, confirming its status as one of the world’s strongest teams.

Another significant partnership was launched in India: 1xBet became the sponsor of Skyesports Masters, the country’s first franchised esports league.

In 2025, 1xBet will continue to actively work in the esports sector and announce new partnerships in the world of sports, including agreements with a top MMA fighter and a leading basketball league.

Africa

1xBet is actively expanding its presence in Africa through partnerships in the sports world and collaborations with popular artists. One of the brand’s most successful projects was its connection with famous Nigerian musician Davido. The company also hosted the grand football tournament 1xCup in Nigeria. The event attracted additional attention to the brand and increased audience loyalty.

The company actively supports social initiatives – for example, in Zambia and Kenya, it helps raise road safety awareness among drivers. In Kenya, the Waziri Cup, a sports tournament known for its charitable initiatives, is also held with the support of 1xBet.

Active participation in sports and social projects has significantly increased brand recognition, with this figure reaching 95% in some countries.

The strategy in priority regions includes further product localization, the launch of exciting promos, and the involvement of sports stars and entertainment industry figures. These steps will help 1xBet gain the trust of new players and strengthen its position as a global leader.

UN report reveals growing presence of organized crime in pacific islands casino projects

According to a UNODC report on ‘Transnational Organized Crime in the Pacific’, organized crime networks exploit these sectors to launder money and facilitate other illicit activities, leaving far-reaching social and economic consequences in their wake.

From drug cartels to highly entrepreneurial Asian criminal syndicates, these networks leverage casinos and other hospitality sectors to mask their operations and infiltrate local economies.

Casinos, junkets, and hotel resorts have emerged as focal points for criminal groups eager to expand their influence in the Pacific.

Initially proliferating in Southeast Asia, this strategy has gained traction in several PICTs, where casinos are used to launder money, facilitate drug and human trafficking, and provide a base for cyber-enabled fraud and underground banking operations.

The casino industries in PICTs are often underregulated, characterized by weak oversight and low awareness of money laundering and related risks, warns the UN body. Criminal networks have exploited these vulnerabilities to navigate both licit and illicit economies, with several high-profile cases highlighting their ability to operate largely unchallenged.

This includes instances where organized crime leaders have successfully cultivated relationships with local influential figures to solidify their footholds.

Foreign criminal actors dominate much of the illicit activity in the Pacific, including in the gambling and hospitality industries.

These actors—ranging from drug cartels and outlaw motorcycle gangs (OMCGs) to Asian criminal networks with diversified business portfolios—utilize casinos to launder proceeds of drug trafficking, illegal resource extraction, and human trafficking.

The report noted, for example, how Wan Kuok Koi, a known senior figure of the 14K Triad – a transnational organized crime group, has been identified as deepening his criminal activities across the Pacific, particularly in Palau and other Southeast Asian nations, according to recent reports from law enforcement and international organizations.

Wan, also known as Broken Tooth, previously served a 15-year prison sentence in Macau for loan-sharking, money laundering and other crime charges, and was designated in December 2020 by the US Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) as a leader of the 14K Triad.

He was accused of engaging in bribery and corruption through various companies, including the World Hongmen History and Culture Association, an organization with chapters worldwide, including in Palau.

The 14K Triad has reportedly used the World Hongmen History and Culture Association to conceal illicit activities under the guise of legitimate investment. Their business ventures have included cryptocurrencies, online casinos, real estate projects, and other enterprises, enabling the co-option of local elites to expand their influence.

In Palau, the individual spearheaded efforts to liberalize the casino industry and established the Palau-China Hung-Mun Cultural Association in 2019. He also secured a preliminary agreement for a 500,000-square-meter beachfront development in Angaur State, which included plans for luxury resorts and casino operations. However, public scrutiny of his criminal associations led to the collapse of the project within months.

In response to the growing threat, Palau issued Executive Order 424 in April 2019, providing a legal mechanism to refuse entry, detain, or deport foreign nationals deemed undesirable due to criminal affiliations. The Triad leader was deported, and a Special Joint Task Force was created to enhance border security and crack down on transnational crime.

Regional expansion and casino targeting

pacific

The influence of Asian organized crime extends beyond Palau, with the UNDOC stating that reports indicate that Chinese criminal networks have targeted Vanuatu’s casino industry, with one syndicate linked to drug trafficking, human trafficking, money laundering, and industrial-scale cyber-enabled fraud.

This group, led by another 14K Triad leader, reportedly uses casinos in the Mekong region as fronts for their activities.

Additionally, other Pacific nations have been targeted for major casino developments, often involving dubious investors. In Vanuatu, efforts were made in 2019 to secure the island’s fourth casino license with connections to controversial investors from Laos. These activities have drawn significant attention to the vulnerabilities of the Pacific’s casino and hospitality sectors, which are often underregulated and poorly monitored.

Another troubling example involves the collapse of Australian-based property group iProsperity. Its founder, an international fugitive, purchased Vanuatu’s Iririki Island casino resort for approximately $30 million in July 2019.

The individual is wanted for embezzling tens of millions of dollars from investors in a Ponzi scheme that caused an estimated $245 million in losses.

Reports reveal that, in 2020, the founder and the company’s Chief Financial Officer allegedly paid $1 million in multiple transactions to acquire Vanuatu passports through the country’s citizen-by-investment scheme.

Both were later implicated in Australia’s Star Entertainment and Crown Casino inquiries, where investigators discovered that millions of dollars from iProsperity funds had been laundered through prominent Australian casinos.

One of the most notable cases cited by the report involves the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) and Imperial Pacific International (IPI) LLC, a subsidiary of the now-defunct Imperial Pacific International Holdings, which was delisted from the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in June 2024.

Following its exclusive casino license acquisition in August 2015, IPI opened a temporary casino, Best Sunshine Live, which quickly gained notoriety for its staggering cash flow. Founders of IPI previously controlled Hengsheng Junket, a major operator in Macau, which has faced allegations of human trafficking and forced labor in Southeast Asia.

Reports revealed that VIP bets at the casino amounted to approximately HK$105 billion ($13.5 billion) in just the first half of 2016. By September of that year, the casino recorded bets totaling a staggering $3.95 billion, all while operating at limited capacity.

Imperial Pacific International, IPI, Saipan, CNMI

The casino’s rapid rise has not been without controversy, with the FBI raiding IPI’s construction site in 2017 due to violations related to the workplace visa system and alleged human smuggling, following the tragic death of a construction worker. Subsequent investigations uncovered a web of corruption, leading to indictments of IPI executives on charges including racketeering and human trafficking.

In November 2023, a Beijing court convicted 14 individuals, including senior IPI executives, for their involvement in an organized criminal group and illegal casino operations. This ruling followed a series of legal challenges that began with the CNMI’s decision to suspend IPI’s casino license for non-payment of community fees.

IPI filed for bankruptcy in April 2024, with debts totaling approximately $165.8 million.

‘Experts familiar with the case of IPI in Saipan have indicated that the criminal network continues to operate through a newly established hybrid (land-based and online) casino operation based on a neighboring Island in CNMI despite significant disruptions caused by recent enforcement action’, the report suggests.

Corruption setting the stage

For the UN organization, the intensification of these crimes is compounded by high levels of corruption in some PICTs.

Corruption was also said to have permeated various sectors, from natural resource management to public administration and offshore banking, creating a fertile ground for organized crime. In some instances, local officials have been co-opted by criminal groups, facilitating the seamless integration of illicit operations into legitimate businesses.

Economic fragility in PICTs, exacerbated by geographic isolation, reliance on foreign aid, and the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, has further opened the door for organized crime.

Transnational criminal groups present themselves as legitimate investors, leveraging favorable tax regimes and weak enforcement mechanisms to consolidate their operations. This hybrid approach not only masks their illicit activities but also exacerbates economic inequalities and diverts critical resources away from public services.

Casinos and other gambling venues have become attractive avenues for money laundering due to the significant cash flows and limited regulatory oversight. The allure of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) through casino development has, in many cases, overshadowed the associated risks, allowing criminal networks to thrive under the guise of economic progress.

pacific

The impact of casino-related crimes extends beyond the economic sphere, deeply affecting social stability in PICTs, the UNODC report warns, with gambling addiction, financial hardships, and family breakdowns are common consequences in communities where casinos operate.

Additionally, these venues often become hotspots for drug trafficking, human trafficking, and other exploitative activities, undermining social cohesion and public trust.

Governance in the region faces mounting challenges as criminal networks infiltrate key sectors, compromising the rule of law and deterring legitimate investment. Corruption at senior levels has further hampered efforts to address these issues, leaving many PICTs vulnerable to exploitation.

To combat the impact of gambling and casino-related crimes, PICTs must strengthen regulations, enhance law enforcement capabilities, and promote regional cooperation. Improved anti-money laundering (AML) measures, alongside transparent governance of the casino sector, are critical steps. International partnerships can also play a role in monitoring and addressing transnational criminal activities tied to these establishments.

Melco Resorts receives 6 Diamonds from Black Pearl Restaurant Guide 2025

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Melco Resorts & Entertainment has been awarded six diamonds from Black Pearl Restaurant Guide 2025. The recognition from the esteemed annual culinary guide is presented to the Company’s signature Chinese restaurants Jade Dragon and , iconic French fine dining restaurant, Alain Ducasse at Morpheus, and Japanese restaurant Sushi Kinetsu.

Melco’s signature Cantonese fine-dining restaurant Jade Dragon at City of Dreams has been awarded the coveted three diamonds award, marking its sixth consecutive year of receiving the Guide’s highest distinction, thus maintaining the status of being Macau’s one and only three diamond Chinese restaurant.

Contemporary Chinese restaurant  at City of Dreams’ Morpheus was honored with one diamond, marking its sixth year of achieving the accolade. Redefining fine dining with a contemporary vision through gastronomy that pays homage to the great traditions and savoir-faire of French cuisine, Alain Ducasse at Morpheus is again honored with one diamond for the second year running. The tranquil omakase restaurant Sushi Kinetsu located at City of Dreams’ Nüwa is also awarded one diamond by the Black Pearl Restaurant Guide with one diamond for the second consecutive year.

Lawrence Ho, Melco Resorts
Lawrence Ho, Chairman & CEO of Melco Resorts

Mr. Lawrence Ho, Chairman & CEO of Melco, said, “Thank you to Black Pearl Restaurant Guide for these wonderful honors. They are a testament to Melco’s dedication to contributing to Macau’s economic diversification as we aim to strengthen its standing as a world center of tourism and leisure, and further highlight the city’s status as a UNESCO-designated Creative City of Gastronomy. Congratulations to our team on their achievements in offering our guests with the most memorable culinary experiences as we strive to continue in our pursuit of service excellence.”

Jade Dragon – Three Diamonds

Three-diamond Cantonese restaurant Jade Dragon showcases exquisite culinary masterpieces created with the freshest seasonal ingredients and delectable delicacies. With spectacular designer décor and superlative personalized service, Jade Dragon sets the benchmark for fine dining in Macau. Honors and awards include:

  • Black Pearl Restaurant Guide 2018, 2020 – 2025 (Three Diamonds)
  • Black Pearl Restaurant Guide 2019 (Two Diamonds)
  • MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong Macau 2019 – 2024 (Three Stars)
  • Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Awards 2014 – 2024
  • Golden Phoenix Tree China Restaurant Guide 2024 (Three Stars)
  • Trip.Best Gourmet Awards 2024 (Diamond)
  • Tatler Best 2024 (Top 100 Restaurants)
  • Tatler Dining Awards 2024
  • SCMP 100 Top Tables 2014 – 2024
  • Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence 2014 – 2024

Yí – One Diamond

One-diamond award winner , located on the 21st floor Sky Bridge of Morpheus, offers the very heights of innovative fine dining and Chinese cuisine served in a modern seasonal tasting menu format. Its degustation menu is inspired by the 24 Solar Terms of the Traditional Chinese Calendar (Jie Qi), changes 12 times a year and highlights many of the restaurant’s signature dishes. ’s honors and awards include:

  • Black Pearl Restaurant Guide 2020 – 2025 (One Diamond)
  • Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Awards 2020 – 2024
  • Trip.Best Gourmet Awards 2024 (Platinum)
  • Tatler Dining Awards 2024
  • SCMP 100 Top Tables 2019 – 2024
  • Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence 2022 – 2024
  • Wine Spectator Award of Excellence 2019 – 2021

Alain Ducasse at Morpheus – One Diamond

Awarded one diamond, Alain Ducasse at Morpheus redefines French gastronomy with a contemporary vision. The restaurant at City of Dreams sources produce from the best regions which is harvested at its optimal time, highlighting a deep appreciation for nature and an intimate understanding of the seasons. Sourcing from small-scale farms and line-caught fish, the restaurant ensures unparalleled quality and a distinctive tasting experience. Honors and awards include:

  • Black Pearl Restaurant Guide 2024 – 2025 (One Diamond)
  • MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong Macau 2019 – 2024 (Two Stars)
  • Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Award 2020 – 2024
  • Trip.Best Gourmet Awards 2024 (Diamond)
  • Tatler Dining Awards 2024
  • SCMP 100 Top Tables 2020 – 2024
  • Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence 2019 – 2024

Sushi Kinetsu – One Diamond

Bestowed one diamond, Sushi Kinetsu at City of Dreams offers authentic Edomae sushi across a beautiful, centuries old Hinoki wood sushi bar. The tranquil restaurant serves seasonal delicacies using only the finest ingredients, crafted by Japanese master chefs. Honors and awards include:

  • Black Pearl Restaurant Guide 2024 – 2025 (One Diamond)
  • MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong Macau 2024 (One Star)
  • Trip.Best Gourmet Awards 2024 (Diamond)

3 Oaks Gaming kicks off 2025 with Hawaii Riches Bonus Bank launch

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3 Oaks Gaming, an established distributor of iGaming content, has kicked off 2025 with the release of Hawaii Riches Bonus Bank, a vibrant 5×4, 25-line slot that debuts its cutting-edge Bonus Bank mechanic.

The Bonus Bank board, positioned above the reels, contains 20 cells with values ranging from x0.6 to x300 the bet. When four or more Bonus Bank or Bonus Bank Up symbols appear on the reels, the corresponding values are collected, and new potential rewards are added.

Bonus Bank Up symbols elevate the excitement by increasing the values of matching cells, adding a progressive element to each spin.

Players can also trigger Free Spins by landing three Scatter symbols, which award 10 spins. During this feature, all Wild symbols transform into Bonus Wilds, enabling them to activate the Bonus Bank mechanic and increasing the potential for significant wins.

Set against a tranquil Hawaiian seascape, the game’s reels feature vibrant symbols such as papayas, wildflowers, seashells, and cocktails, delivering a rich tropical theme to complement its engaging gameplay.

Krasimir Pankovski, Head of Sales at 3 Oaks Gaming, said: “As the first release of 2025, Hawaii Riches Bonus Bank sets the tone for what we aim to deliver this year—games that combine innovative mechanics with broad player appeal. This feature is crafted to draw in both seasoned players and newcomers, ensuring broad appeal and sustained engagement.”