Liquor & Gaming NSW has initiated a compliance operation aimed at safeguarding minors from entering, gambling, or consuming alcohol in casinos throughout New South Wales during the holiday season.
The operation comes as the state anticipates a surge in casino visitors over Christmas and New Year. Liquor & Gaming NSW administers the regulatory framework for the liquor, gaming, wagering, casino and registered clubs sectors in New South Wales.
Underage individuals caught in adult-only gaming venues face significant repercussions, including fines and a one-year ban from re-entering casinos once they turn 18.
Dimitri Argeres, Acting Executive Director of Regulatory Operations at L&GNSW
Dimitri Argeres, Acting Executive Director of Regulatory Operations at L&GNSW, emphasized the importance of collaboration between inspectors and casino security to ensure that minors remain off-limits.
“This is a critical time of year when we see an increase in people visiting casinos, and it’s essential that minors are not among them,” Mr. Argeres stated. “Under 18s caught in a casino will forfeit any gambling winnings and may face fines of up to AU$4,400 (US$2,800), along with a ban on entering casinos until they are at least 19.”
Mr. Argeres also reminded casino operators of their legal responsibility to prevent underage access. “This operation focuses on both holding individuals accountable and ensuring casinos meet their legal obligations. Staff training, rigorous ID checks, and robust security measures are essential to preventing underage access,” he added.
In New South Wales, it is illegal for individuals under 18 to enter a casino or use fraudulent identification, such as fake IDs. Additionally, minors are prohibited from purchasing or consuming alcohol. More severe penalties apply to excluded persons who enter or remain in a casino, including fines of up to AU$5,500 (US$3,500), a maximum of 12 months in prison, or both.
This enforcement initiative follows several high-profile incidents involving minors in NSW casinos in recent years.
In one notable case, a 17-year-old used a fake ID to gain entry and spent over an hour gambling, resulting in fines for both the individual and the casino operator, which was penalized AU$25,000 (US$15,900) by the NSW Independent Casino Commission (NICC).
SOFTSWISS, a leading tech provider with over 15 years of experience, has announced that its innovative affiliate marketing management platform, Affilka by SOFTSWISS, will participate in the upcoming iGB Affiliate presenting new features.
iGB Affiliate 2025 will take place in Spain on 21-22 January at Fira Grant Via Barcelona. The event will host over 200 companies and more than 8,000 attendees from around the world.
Participating with the stand for the second year in a row, Affilka by SOFTSWISS is going to present new features and share 2024 year’s results. The platform currently powers over 410 brands, with more than 40 new additions in Q3 2024 alone. Since the beginning of the year, the platform has welcomed over a hundred new brands.
The number of newaffiliateaccounts registered on the platform increased by 39.6% during the first three quarters of 2024 compared to the same period of the previous year. Additionally, new player registrations grew by 62.7%, and the number of unique clicks on referral links increased by 8.9% during the same timeframe.
The growing metrics show the popularity of affiliate marketing in elevating iGaming projects. According to the recent iGaming Trends 2025 Report, affiliate marketing, along with SEO enhancement, paid advertising, and collaborations with influencers, remains one of the key tools for marketing promotion.
Constantly working on improving user experience, Affilka by SOFTSWISS recently introduced a new Geo-Distributed Redirect feature that reduces redirect times by 2.5 to 5 times. With tests showing a time drop from 1.5 seconds to 300–500 milliseconds, this improvement boosts site traffic by 3.5% to 7%, increasing registrations and deposits. It also enhances reliability and fault tolerance and ensures seamless traffic rerouting during disruptions, offering a faster and more dependable user experience.
Anastasia Borovaya, Head of Affilka by SOFTSWISS, summarises: “We acknowledge the essential role of affiliate marketing for promoting iGaming projects in a rapidly evolving landscape. The new feature is a game changer, addressing the common issue of players leaving sites due to lag. By drastically reducing latency, the Geo-Distributed Redirect feature ensures seamless navigation and maximises user engagement. Come to our stand at iGB Affiliate to learn more and share your ideas”.
Current and potential clients can book a meeting with the Affilka by SOFTSWISS team at stand C10via the link.
iGB Affiliate brings together affiliates and iGaming operators, connecting top affiliate programs and cutting-edge tech vendors in a dynamic and engaging environment.
iGB Affiliate mission is to facilitate outstanding business networking, deliver high-quality content, and provide thought leadership that fosters trust-based partnerships and drives growth throughout the iGaming affiliate ecosystem.
Macau legacy gaming operator SJM Resorts, celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the Establishment of the Macao SAR, is set to unveil its newest culinary and cultural landmark, Kam Pek Market, located in San Ma Lo.
This revitalized historic building, formerly known as the Kam Pek Community Centre, will debut its fresh new look to residents and visitors alike.
Visiting the new Kam Pek Market were: the Chief Executive of the Macao SAR Mr. Ho Iat Seng, accompanied by the Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture Ms. Ao Ieong U, Macao Government Tourism Office Director Ms. Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, Cultural Affairs Bureau President Ms. Leong Wai Man, Vice Chairman of the Administration Committee on Municipal Affairs of the Municipal Affairs Bureau Mr. Lo Chi Kin, and Acting Head of the Economic Activities Development Department of the Economic and Technological Development Bureau Mr. Lau Kit Lon.
During the visit, Ms. Daisy Ho, Managing Director of SJM, shared insights into the vision and design of the revitalization project. The delegation also engaged warmly with vendors on-site.
Kam Pek Market is a flagship project under SJM’s “San Ma Lo District Revitalisation Plan,” aligning closely with the SAR Government’s “Historic District Revitalisation Initiative.” Located near several UNESCO World Heritage sites and major transportation hubs, the project complements the Grand Lisboa Hotel and Hotel Lisboa at one end of the street and the Ponte 16 Resort at the other.
Standing three stories tall, this distinctive project is one of Macau’s few single-building destinations entirely dedicated to gastronomy. In its initial phase, the ground floor will feature eight carefully curated dining establishments, offering diverse culinary experiences aimed at attracting a younger demographic, increasing foot traffic in the area, and fostering mutual growth with neighboring businesses. This initiative further reinforces Macau’s status as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.
Ms. Daisy Ho, Managing Director of SJM, remarked, “We are delighted to soft-open the Kam Pek Market project during the momentous 25th anniversary of Macau’s return to China. This marks an important step in revitalizing the district. As a starting point, we aim to create more iconic cultural landmarks that enrich Macau’s community and cultural tourism offerings. By driving footfall to the area, we seek to stimulate collaborative growth within the neighborhood, revitalize the local economy, and implement a ‘large supports small’ development model that benefits residents and businesses alike. Through this, we hope to nurture the growth of SMEs and ensure that all stakeholders can share in the fruits of economic progress.”
A Cultural Landmark Reimagined
Kam Pek Market is a protected local heritage building that holds the collective memories of the San Ma Lo district. Formerly known as “Casino Kam Pek” in the 1980s and 1990s, it was transformed into the “Kam Pek Community Centre” in 2002, serving as a venue for performances and exhibitions by local groups and artists.
Kam Pek Market operates daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., catering to a wide range of diners.
Following revitalization, it now enters a new chapter under the design theme of “Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future.” The project seamlessly blends preservation and innovation, retaining its original architectural structure and façade while incorporating modern interpretations. Inside, original elements are paired with contemporary styles to create an ambiance that is both chic and relaxed, continuing the building’s legacy as a community hub for leisure and entertainment.
Driving Footfall and Supporting SMEs
SJM invited the Macao Chamber of Commerce and the General Union of Neighbourhood Associations of Macau to serve as the selection panel for tenant bidding at the end of September. Taking into account the valuable insights provided by both organizations regarding market needs, a thorough and rigorous selection process was conducted. This resulted in the selection of high-quality local SMEs for Kam Pek Market, aimed at addressing gaps in the district’s dining experiences, enriching the overall variety of offerings, and diversifying the supply chain, ultimately enhancing the value of the area.
To support local SMEs, SJM has implemented a revenue-sharing rental model to foster strong partnerships with its tenants. The company also offers one-stop start-up support, along with comprehensive operational and marketing assistance, helping tenants significantly reduce initial costs. This development model enhances supply chain management, cost control, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance, creating a mutually beneficial ecosystem for all stakeholders.
Eight Vendors Begin Trial Operations
The ground floor of Kam Pek Market, spanning over 7,000 square feet with nearly 100 seats, marks the first phase of its launch. The initial lineup features eight dining establishments, including seven operated by SMEs and SJM’s own beverage outlet. Together, they offer a diverse menu of Chinese, Portuguese, Japanese, Thai, and Taiwanese-style cuisine, ranging from creative desserts and noodle specialties to Taiwanese snacks and Thai delicacies. This collaborative effort aims to position Kam Pek Market as a premier dining destination, celebrating Macau’s unique culinary heritage that seamlessly blends Eastern and Western flavors.
Kam Pek Market Ground Floor
The second phase of the project is scheduled to launch in January 2025, featuring dining outlets on the first floor. Spanning over 5,800 square feet, the first floor will host eight outlets and close to 130 seats. Additional details will be announced in due course.
Kam Pek Market First Floor
Kam Pek Market operates daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., catering to a wide range of diners. It will soft open on 14 December 2024, and celebrate its grand opening on 22 December 2024. From 14 December until 14 January 2025, vendors will offer a variety of promotions to usher in the festive season. For more information about Kam Pek Market and its promotions, please visit https://www.kampekmarket.com/en.
First-Phase Tenants at Kam Pek Market
SJM’s In-House Operated Outlet:
G01
Sam’s Station
Operated by SJM, the handcrafted beverage shop offers a wide selection of drinks, ranging from popular lemon iced tea and nourishing bird’s nest milk tea to locally brewed craft beer.
Awarded Tenants:
G02
Time To Go Home Dessert
A dessert start-up specialising in unique treats such as ice cream, waffles, macarons, and tiramisu, with occasional themed menu items inspired by fan support for idols.
G03
Ba Fang Ying Mian Cuisine Specialising in classic shark fin soup noodles, signature Portuguese-style sardine buns, and a variety of dishes and buns.
G04
Goat Bakers
A renowned local bakery offering flaky pastries, Portuguese tarts, artisanal bread, Italian-style breakfasts, homemade desserts, and a selection of specialty-blend and handcrafted coffee.
G05
Fong Seng Hin
Blending ingredients and sauces from diverse regions, the menu presents a Macau flavour with a Shunde flair, featuring signature soup-based noodles, various Hong Kong and Macau drinks, and homemade sauces.
G06
Pratunam 1982
The menu features traditional boat noodles, tom yum soup, red and green curries, along with a selection of Thai appetisers and desserts.
Invited Tenants:
G07
Rui Chen Delights
The restaurant’s first outlet in Asia carries on the legacy of Hung Rui Chen’s signature sandwiches, bringing classic Taiwanese flavours, such as beef noodle soup and braised pork rice to the city.
G08
Dragon Dance Noodle
A modern Chinese-Japanese noodle house fusing the authentic flavours of local dai pai dong with rich Japanese-style white chicken broth ramen.
BetConstruct, the award-winning developer and provider of online and land-based gaming solutions, has announced that after successfully realizing the ‘It’s Your Dream’ concept, the industry trendsetter is proud to reveal its new concept: The Center of Gravity, ahead of ICE Barcelona 2025.
Just as gravity is the unseen force that binds the universe together, the company upholds innovation, collaboration, and forward-thinking as the cornerstones that reshape the future of iGaming, with BetConstruct at the very nexus. The Center of Gravity represents a place where ideas converge, and possibilities are unlocked, creating balance and direction within the industry’s dynamic landscape.
By becoming the Center of Gravity, BetConstruct affirms its role as the core driving force behind transformation. The company’s dedicated team of researchers and visionaries tirelessly explore new opportunities, challenge limitations, and push boundaries to create solutions that are futureproof.
This concept reflects a firm commitment to being at the heart of change, where the extraordinary becomes the new standard. As BetConstruct continues to evolve and redefine the future of iGaming, the company is set to reveal the concept in its entirety at this year’s ICE Barcelona 2025 from January 20-22. Within this framework, BetConstuct invites all industry experts and enthusiasts to step into the Center of Gravity, where innovation, expertise, and collaboration align to shape the path ahead.
China’s Ministry of Public Security has dismantled 263 syndicates linked to unauthorized foreign exchange (FX) activities centered around Macau’s casinos, facilitating a capital flow of over CNY80 billion ($11 billion).
Chen Shiqu, Deputy Head of the Ministry’s Criminal Investigation Department, revealed in a Friday press conference in Beijing that these syndicates were involved in a range of associated crimes, including operating underground banks, organizing illegal border crossings for mainland residents, scams, and the wrongful detainment of gamblers. To date, 846 suspects have been detained in connection with these illegal activities.
Chen, along with several other public security officials, also outlined the collaboration between mainland Chinese and Macau authorities, which has intensified since early July, when both sides began ramping up efforts to combat unlicensed FX operations in Macau.
In Guangdong, the province bordering Macau, authorities have investigated 192 cases related to illicit FX trading and other associated crimes, amounting to an estimated CNY14.7 billion ($2.02 billion), according to Wu Wei, Deputy Head of Guangdong’s Criminal Investigation Department.
In Zhuhai, the Guangdong city adjacent to Macau, a special task force has been established to address criminal activities related to Macau’s illegal FX traders, many of whom are believed to be from mainland China.
Chen confirmed that Macau police have deported 581 mainland Chinese individuals suspected of involvement in illicit money exchange operations, sending them back to Zhuhai for further investigation.
Chen also emphasized the effectiveness of the cross-border cooperation between mainland and Macau security agencies, noting that Macau’s recent legislation criminalizing illegal FX activities has significantly contributed to the crackdown on these syndicates and their associated crimes. However, he acknowledged the ongoing challenges posed by the secretive nature of these operations, which often take place behind closed doors in Macau hotel rooms. Other linked crimes, such as robberies, scams, blackmail, illegal detainment, and money laundering, continue to complicate efforts.
Macau arrests 84 money exchangers in one month
The Macau Judiciary Police also held a press conference on Friday to highlight their efforts in dismantling illicit foreign exchange operations, noting that they had achieved progressive results.
Sou Sio Keong, Deputy Director of the Judiciary Police, stated that law enforcement authorities had arrested 84 individuals, the majority of whom were from mainland China, with the rest being local residents and individuals from Hong Kong.
The arrested individuals face charges related to unlicensed foreign exchange transactions for gambling purposes, which are now considered a criminal offence under Macau’s newly enacted Law to Combat Crimes of Illegal Gambling.
Authorities also seized cash and gaming chips worth a total of HK$9.6 million ($1.23 million).
These arrests were made up until November 30th, following the criminalization of such activities in Macau, which took effect on October 29th.
The revocation of licenses for the remaining Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) officially began on Sunday, December 15th.
This announcement was made by Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco last week, following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to wind down POGO operations nationwide.
In a Sunday morning interview with local media DZBB, Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) Director Gilbert Cruz stated that approximately 20 POGOs are still in operation, based on PAGCOR data.
Cruz confirmed that all POGOs and Internet Gambling Licensees (IGLs) must cease operations by January 1st. He also emphasized that businesses claiming to be licensed business process outsourcing (BPO) companies are no longer permitted. “Those are no longer allowed,” he added.
The PAOCC noted that they would also inspect POGOs that claim to have ceased operations to ensure full compliance with the total ban.
In November, President Marcos signed Executive Order No. 74, which mandates a ban on POGOs and internet gaming licenses. The order covers illegal offshore gaming activities, the suspension of new license applications and renewals, and the discontinuation of existing operations. Marcos initially announced the POGO ban during his third State of the Nation address in July.
In response, various government agencies – including the PAOCC, the Department of Justice, and the Bureau of Immigration – began downgrading the visas of foreign POGO workers starting October 15th. The Bureau of Immigration has reported that over 21,000 foreign workers have applied for visa downgrades.
2,300 POGO workers deported
The Philippine government has deported more than 2,300 foreign workers employed by POGOs, according to the PAOCC.
Gilbert Cruz reported on Friday that most of the deported workers were sent back to China, their country of origin. Some were deported to other countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam.
Cruz also mentioned that despite the ongoing crackdown, around 200 rogue POGOs are still attempting to operate across the country.
China’s President Xi Jinping will visit Macau from December 18th to 20th to mark the 25th anniversary of the region’s return to China and to conduct an official inspection of the Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR).
The trip was confirmed on Saturday by Xinhua News Agency, China’s state-run media outlet.
During his visit, President Xi will attend various events celebrating the anniversary and the inauguration of Macau’s sixth government. Additionally, he will oversee an official inspection of the region.
This marks his third visit to Macau for such milestones, having previously attended the 15th and 20th anniversaries of Macau’s return in 2014 and 2019, where he delivered significant speeches.
Meanwhile, in the gaming sector, analysts remain cautious about the impact of the visit on Macau’s gaming revenue. Citigroup has projected a flat year-on-year performance for Macau’s gross gaming revenue (GGR) in December 2024, forecasting MOP18.5 billion (US$2.3 billion).
This forecast represents approximately 81 percent of December 2019 levels.
Analysts expect a temporary dip in gaming activity during the visit, as public attention will shift to state-led celebrations. While the holiday season typically boosts tourist arrivals, this high-profile political event is expected to disrupt the usual gaming momentum in Macau.
Francis Lui, the son of late gaming mogul Lui Che Woo, has been officially appointed as Chairman of Galaxy Entertainment Group
According to a filing with the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on Friday, Francis is shifting from the Deputy Chairman role that he was appointed to in February of 1997 to the Chairman of the Board.
The change is effective from Friday, December 13th.
Lui’s shift in the company comes after the passing of his father, and Galaxy founder Lui Che Woo on November 7th of this year.
Lui Che Woo was 95 years old.
The shift was expected, given Francis Lui’s strong involvement in the group’s management.
Mr. Francis Lui, Chairman of GEG, said, “I am truly grateful for the guidance and support of Dr. Lui over the years. I will continue to work closely with the Board and all of our team members to realize Dr. Lui’s vision for GEG to become a world’s leading integrated tourism and leisure company, and to contribute to the development of the country.”
In its release, GEG noted that the company’s board believes Francis Lui’s ‘leadership will continue to bring satisfying benefits and positive impacts on the development of the Group’s businesses’.
The Star Entertainment Group Limited has confirmed the resignation of Mark Mackay as Chief Executive Officer of The Star Gold Coast, effective immediately.
In a filing to the Australian Stock Exchange on Friday, the company stated that this announcement follows a previous communication on September 9th, 2024, regarding Mackay’s appointment to the role, which was subject to the receipt of necessary regulatory approvals.
With Mackay’s departure, The Star has initiated a process to recruit a new CEO for The Star Gold Coast.
In a statement, Steve McCann, Group CEO and Managing Director, expressed gratitude for Mackay’s contributions, saying, “We thank Mark Mackay for his assistance and wish him well for the future.”
The recruitment process is now underway as the company seeks to fill the leadership position at its Gold Coast operations.
The move follows the Queensland government’s decision, announced a week ago, to defer the decision to suspend The Star Gold Coast’s casino license until March 31st, 2025. Authorities indicated that the deferral comes “as the Crisfulli Government seeks answers on how the business is fixing a litany of problems.”
The Star Gold Coast was previously set to have its casino license suspended for 90 days, beginning December 20th, 2024.
