Macau gaming operator Galaxy Entertainment Group (GEG) has announced a salary increase for all eligible team members at the senior manager grade and below, effective April 1st, 2025.
This adjustment will benefit approximately 98 percent of Galaxy Entertainment Group’s workforce.
According to Wednesday’s announcement, team members who joined GEG before January 1st, 2025, will receive the following salary adjustments: those earning a monthly base salary and guaranteed tips (if applicable) of MOP16,000 ($2,006) or below will receive an increment of MOP600 ($75.2). Meanwhile, team members with a monthly base salary and guaranteed tips (if applicable) exceeding MOP16,000 ($2,006) will see a 2.5 percent salary increase.
In its statement, Galaxy Entertainment expressed gratitude to its team members for their efforts and contributions over the past year.
Galaxy Entertainment is the second gaming operator in Macau to announce a pay raise for 2025. Sands China was the first to unveil its salary increase in December 2024, alongside announcing a bonus. Sands China’s salary adjustments, which range between 2.5 percent and 5 percent, will take effect on March 1st, 2025.
According to an investment bank, similar salary increases are expected to be implemented by all six gaming operators in Macau.
Registered online bookmaker VicBet has been fined AU$130,000 ($83,000) for two violations of its customer care obligations, as announced by of the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC).
According to VGCCC’s CEO, Annette Kimmitt AM, the serious consequences of non-compliance, not just for the companies involved but also for individuals at risk of significant harm due to irresponsible practices.
“It is an egregious betrayal of trust to continue sending marketing materials to someone who has self-excluded from gambling or closed their betting account,” Kimmitt stated, underscoring the importance of adhering to industry regulations.
The VGCCC’s investigation revealed that VicBet had committed two specific breaches. First, the bookmaker offered a AU$1,800 ($1,200) bonus bet to a customer after they requested the closure of their betting account in September 2022, resulting in a AU$50,000 ($33,000) fine.
Second, VicBet repeatedly sent promotional materials to a customer who had permanently self-excluded from the platform in March 2020, leading to an AU$80,000 ($53,000) penalty.
Under Victorian law, it is prohibited for bookmakers to provide incentives, such as credits or bonuses, to customers who wish to close their accounts. Additionally, sending promotional communications to self-excluded individuals violates the Victorian Bookmakers’ Association Code of Conduct.
“On these occasions, VicBet failed to uphold its legal and social responsibilities, which include minimizing harm to customers,” Kimmitt added. “The industry must respect the decisions of individuals who choose to take a break from or quit gambling, ensuring that all reasonable measures are taken to enforce harm prevention initiatives like self-exclusion programs.”
In less than two weeks, over 66,000 multiple-entry visas have been issued for travel to Macau’s neighboring cities, according to official data.
Since January 1st, 2025, Zhuhai residents have made 257,000 trips to Macau, representing a year-on-year increase of 26.1 percent, according to Lyu Ning, spokesperson for China’s National Immigration Administration.
In Tuesday’s press conference, Lyu revealed that 59,000 “One Trip Per Week” endorsements for travel to Macau have been issued, along with over 6,000 “Multiple-Entry” endorsements.
The “One Trip Per Week” visa, as well as the “Multiple-Entry” visa, are both recognized as tourist visas that allow for multiple entries.
The new visa policy, implemented on January 1st, 2025, allows Zhuhai residents to apply for a travel permit to visit Macau once a week, while Hengqin residents can apply for a multiple-entry visa. This initiative marks a pioneering move, as it is the first time Chinese authorities have introduced a multiple-entry visa for tourism to Macau.
The policy is also regarded as a “gift” to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR).
The spokesperson for the National Immigration Administration highlighted the significant growth in travel from mainland China to Macau following the introduction of the new visa scheme, which aligns with observations made by Macau authorities.
Earlier last week, Helena de Senna Fernandes, Head of the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO), confirmed that the newly implemented visa policy for residents of neighboring cities has already had a positive impact on Macau’s visitor numbers.
The official revealed that from January 3rd to 5th, 2025, daily visitor arrivals remained above 100,000. She believes that these encouraging numbers are a result of the new, more relaxed visa policy.
With nearly two weeks remaining before the start of Chinese New Year and Golden Week (January 28th to February 4th), according to AGB’s check, Macau’s hotel bookings are nearly full, especially in the Cotai area.
Most hotels at Galaxy Macau, an integrated resort by Galaxy Entertainment Group, are fully booked for the Chinese New Year period, with no rooms available after January 31st. Only Broadway, Okura, and Andaz offer availability from Chinese New Year’s Eve (January 28th) to the second day of the New Year, with prices ranging from MOP 2,000 ($251) to MOP 3,000 ($376).
The Venetian Macao, part of Sands China’s integrated resorts, is also fully booked, except for Chinese New Year’s Eve, January 29th, and February 4th. Room rates range from MOP 1,800 ($226) to MOP 2,000 ($251). The Londoner still has rooms available from Chinese New Year’s Eve to January 31st, but prices start from MOP 6,000 ($752) to MOP 13,000 ($1,630).
Melco’s hotels have availability until January 31st. Grand Hyatt has rooms available throughout the holiday, starting at MOP 4,000 ($502), while Studio City requires a two-night minimum stay at rates starting from MOP 6,000 ($752).
Wynn Palace is fully booked except for Chinese New Year’s Eve, with rates starting from MOP 2,000 ($251). MGM’s rooms are also fully booked, except for New Year’s Eve, with rates starting from MOP 4,300 ($539).
SJM’s Grand Lisboa has limited availability on January 29th and February 4th, with prices ranging from MOP 2,000 ($251) to MOP 3,500 ($439).
Thailand’s casino bill is anticipated to be enacted in early 2026, according to Julapun Amornvivat, Deputy Minister of Finance.
Julapun Amornvivat, Thailand’s Deputy Finance Minister
Local media outlet Post Today reported, citing Amornvivat, that the government has outlined a comprehensive schedule for the Entertainment Complex Business Act.
After Cabinet approval, the draft law will be sent to the Council of State for review. This process is expected to take 45 days before the law returns to the Cabinet and is subsequently submitted to Parliament by March 2025.
The bill will undergo further deliberation before being finalized into law, with enactment projected for the first quarter of 2026.
The approval of the bill will pave the way for the Integrated Entertainment Policy Committee to assess and announce investment conditions later in 2026. Following this, bidding for the entertainment complex projects will open, with construction expected to begin in 2027. The timeline is ambitious, as the government aims to complete construction within 3 to 4 years, ideally before the end of its current term.
Lertsuridej stated that these complexes are envisioned to be state-of-the-art, with the country prepared to host large-scale developments across multiple sectors.
“The investment conditions will focus on new construction in a designated government area, approximately 300 rai in size. The entertainment complexes will include 4 to 5 hotels, totaling 5,000 rooms, a large theme park, an international convention center, and year-round events such as concerts. The casino portion will comprise only 3 to 5 percent of the total area,” said Lertsuridej.
The unit “rai” is a traditional Thai unit of area, commonly used to measure land in Thailand. One rai is equivalent to 1,600 square meters, which means 300 rai represents 480,000 square meters.
The Secretary-General to the Prime Minister also emphasized that each investment will exceed THB 100 billion ($2.9 billion), with the first services expected to be operational by 2029—just ahead of the 2030 launch of a similar entertainment complex in Osaka, Japan.
DSTGAMING, a leader in providing innovative white-label online casino solutions, proudly announces its sponsorship of the ASEAN Gaming Summit 2025.
Set to take place from March 17 to 19, 2025, at the prestigious Shangri-La The Fort in Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Manila, Philippines, this partnership underscores DSTGAMING commitment to advancing the iGaming industry across the ASEAN region.
About the ASEAN Gaming Summit
The ASEAN Gaming Summit is a renowned platform that brings together key stakeholders in the gaming and iGaming industries. The event serves as a hub for networking, knowledge-sharing, and exploring the latest advancements in gaming technology, regulation, and market trends. Drawing attendees from across the globe, the summit’s sessions include panel discussions, workshops, and exhibitions, offering invaluable insights into the opportunities and challenges facing the gaming sector.
As the main sponsor of this influential event, DSTGAMING is poised to play a central role in shaping the conversations that will define the industry’s future. With the ASEAN region emerging as a focal point for gaming innovation and market growth, DSTGAMING involvement signals its dedication to fostering sustainable development and partnerships within the sector.
DSTGAMING has built its reputation as a trusted provider of iGaming platforms, empowering businesses with cutting-edge solutions tailored to their unique needs. By delivering seamless and secure gaming experiences, DSTGAMING supports operators in achieving their goals while ensuring compliance with industry regulations.
“This sponsorship reflects our commitment to driving innovation and collaboration in the gaming industry. We look forward to engaging with industry leaders, sharing our expertise, and exploring new opportunities to create value for our partners and stakeholders,” said DSTGAMING.
What to Expect from DSTGAMING at the Summit
As the main sponsor, DSTGAMING will have a prominent presence throughout the three-day event. Attendees can look forward to:
Exclusive Insights: Attendees can visit the company’s booth to gain valuable insights into the evolution of white-label gaming platforms, the importance of regulatory compliance, and strategies for market expansion in ASEAN.
Interactive Booth Experience: Visit DSTGAMING booth to explore the company’s latest offerings, including customizable igaming solutions, advanced security features, and user-friendly interfaces. Demonstrations and one-on-one consultations will provide visitors with a deeper understanding of DSTGAMING capabilities.
Why the ASEAN Gaming Summit Matters
The ASEAN Gaming Summit has established itself as a must-attend event for professionals in the gaming sector, offering unparalleled opportunities to:
Gain insights into emerging trends and technologies.
Understand the nuances of regulatory frameworks in key ASEAN markets.
Forge meaningful connections with industry leaders and innovators.
DSTGAMING sponsorship highlights the company’s dedication to supporting the growth and success of the iGaming ecosystem. By aligning with the summit’s mission, DSTGAMING reinforces its role as a key player in driving industry excellence.
Looking Ahead
As the ASEAN Gaming Summit 2025 approaches, DSTGAMING invites all stakeholders, from operators to affiliates, to join the conversation. The company is committed to creating an engaging and informative experience for all participants, fostering an environment where ideas and innovations can thrive.
Stay tuned for updates on the summit’s agenda, speaker line-up, and other exciting announcements.
DSTGAMING is a leading provider of white-label online casino solutions, specializing in delivering innovative and customizable platforms for operators worldwide. With a focus on quality, security, and compliance, DSTGAMING empowers businesses to achieve success in the competitive iGaming landscape. By combining advanced technology with unparalleled support, DSTGAMING continues to set the standard for excellence in the industry.
Yggdrasil has announced a landmark deal with Aristocrat Interactive, Aristocrat’s online Real Money Gaming (RMG) division, which grants the supplier giant exclusive rights to distribute Yggdrasil content across all regulated markets in the US and Ontario.
Aristocrat Interactive’s Content & Aggregation division will seamlessly integrate Yggdrasil’s top-performing game portfolio through Ignite™, its established studio accelerator and RGS platform. Designed to support studios entering regulated markets, Ignite will deliver Yggdrasil’s diverse game collection to its expansive operator network across North America.
Recent hit titles to benefit from the new distribution partnership include Valley of the Dead OnlyWins, Aphrodite Goes Wild Rushing Wilds, and 3 Gladiators vs Caesar, backed up by one of the most extensive back catalogues of proven games in the industry.
The deal marks the latest boost to Yggdrasil’s commercial growth strategy as it continues to make strides in globally regulated markets.
Jose Simon, Chief Commercial Officer at Yggdrasil, said: “As far as names in the industry go, they don’t come much bigger or renowned than Aristocrat Interactive, and we are very excited to make this significant step together in North America. Aristocrat Interactive’s platform offers us everything we need to succeed in the region, and we have the utmost confidence that our profile will enhance considerably in this key market in the coming years.”
Ashley Bloor, Director of Partnerships at Aristocrat Interactive Content & Aggregation, added: “We are thrilled to welcome Yggdrasil to Ignite and integrate its engaging and dynamic content into our portfolio, enhancing the variety and quality of content we offer our operators. This relationship underscores our commitment to delivering the most robust and desirable gaming experiences across North America.”
Sporting Risk, the experts in betting, forecasting and analytics in sport, has officially launched its content with Pragmatic Play. This pivotal partnership is delivering an elevated sports betting package for Pragmatic Play Sports customers.
The content deal covers the best domestic football leagues, offering 42 player markets, 16 team markets, and 14 match markets, all combinable in a limitless number of pre-canned bet builders.
These can be price boosted and presented with stats-driven bet prompts to provide the end customer with the rationale and context for the bet. Sporting Risk manages each element, from market creation to settlement, which includes lineup management and dynamic pricing adjustments.
Pragmatic Play is utilising Sporting Risk’s advanced user interface, which allows for immediate pricing changes and manipulation of the product. The trading tool enables the application of custom rules to various market segments, categorised by leagues, bet types, teams, players, and specific props. These rules can be implemented manually and through an API.
Sporting Risk provides a streamlined and flexible integration process for partners, reducing resource requirements and accelerating the timeline for going live.
Andy Phillips, SportingRisk.com CCO, commented: “Pragmatic Play’s sportsbook solution is used by an extensive list of tier-one operators. Our predictive modelling and sports analytics expertise is driving growth in key markets.”
Gareth Crook, SVP of Sports at Pragmatic Play, added: “Betting on the actions of individual football players has fast become a key growth area within any global sportsbook. We are already seeing users favouring these types of markets over more traditional football markets and we worked very quickly to add these markets to our existing football offering. Our partnership with Sporting Risk allows Pragmatic Play Sports clients access to a full range of player props and interval-based betting markets across multiple football competitions globally.”
PopOK Gaming has announced the newest addition to its portfolio—land-based slot machines – set to make their debut at ICE Barcelona 2025! This milestone marks an exciting chapter in their journey, bringing the thrill of PopOK’s games from the digital realm to the casino floor.
PopOK’s land-based slot machines are more than just gaming cabinets—they are a bold statement of innovation, designed to deliver a next-level casino experience. Combining advanced technology with our signature creativity, these machines are set to redefine what players expect from traditional slot gameplay.
What sets their machines apart?
• Diverse Selection of Games: The initial lineup includes over 20 titles, each crafted to engage and excite players of all preferences.
• Monthly Game Releases: Innovation never stops at PopOK Gaming! The company is committed to keeping the excitement alive with new, high-quality games released every month, ensuring that venues remain a top destination for slot enthusiasts.
• Advanced Technology & Sleek Design: The machines are built with state-of-the-art technology and designed to blend seamlessly into any casino environment, delivering both visual appeal and operational excellence.
Next-Level Gaming Experience
PopOK Gaming new slot machines are designed with the perfect blend of cutting-edge technology and player-focused features, including:
• Industry’s first mixed game solution: This innovation combines multiple gaming formats into a single cabinet, offering unparalleled excitement and engagement for players.
• Interactive Touch Screen: For effortless gameplay.
• Customizable LED Lighting: Eye-catching visuals to make your casino floor pop.
• High-Quality Sound: Premium audio to heighten the gaming atmosphere.
• Progressive Jackpots & Rewards: Big wins and loyalty benefits await every spin.
Experience It First at ICE 2025
Be the first to witness PopOK Gaming’s land-based slot machines at Stand 2E36 during ICE 2025.
This is just the beginning of an exciting journey into the world of land-based solutions.
PopOK Gaming: Pioneering the Future of Gaming, One Spin at a Time.
SOFTSWISS, an international tech company with over 15 years of experience in iGaming, celebrates the 7th anniversary of Affilka, its affiliate marketing platform and highlights some key product milestones.
Launched in 2018, Affilka by SOFTSWISS has quickly become a leading affiliate management platform powering the iGaming industry. Celebrating its 7th anniversary, the product now supports over 440 brands, reflecting its growing influence. Notably, the number of iGaming operators using the platform increased by 37% over the past year.
Providing cutting-edge tools like the newly presented Geo-Distributed Redirect feature, the trusted Comprehensive Reporting, Flexible Commission Constructor, and Built-in Payment Processing, the platform ensures operators are aligned with relevant affiliate marketing trends, optimising affiliate program management and elevating operational efficiency.
User Experience Optimisation with Geo-Distributed Redirect Feature
This feature aligns with the increasing focus on user experience optimisation and minimising friction in user journeys. Rapid, seamless redirects fastened by 2.5 to 5 times maximise user engagement, reduce bounce rates, and improve conversions, reflecting the industry’s shift toward prioritising customer-centric design.
Simulated tests conducted in one region showed a reduction from 1.5 seconds to just 300–500 milliseconds – ranking among the fastest response rates in the industry. As a result, the feature has driven a 3.5% to 7% increase in users successfully reaching casino sites, leading to higher registrations and deposits.
Comprehensive Reporting for Data-Driven Decision-Making
Affilka by SOFTSWISS offers comprehensive reports with near real-time statistics. This advanced analytics tool aligns with the growing reliance on complete actionable data. It provides a competitive edge, as both operators and affiliates can receive timely information to make informed decisions. The faster affiliates receive data on player activity, the quicker they can adjust their marketing strategies to attract higher-quality traffic.
Affiliates and operators are moving toward highly tailored commission structures to better align with performance metrics. The Flexible Commission Constructor provided by Affilka by SOFTSWISS reflects this demand, enabling the creation of CPA, RevShare, Hybrid, and other bespoke models to meet diverse business needs.
Built-in Payment Processing for Seamless Financial Operations
As the affiliate industry expands globally, ensuring timely, secure, and multi-currency payment solutions is critical. Built-in Payment Processing aligns with the trend of streamlining financial workflows, fostering trust, and improving affiliate retention through hassle-free payouts.
Affilka by SOFTSWISS integrates multiple payment systems, including Neteller, Skrill, Cryptoprocessing, and bank transfers, facilitating efficient and timely affiliate payouts directly from the platform’s back office. This seamless payment processing enhances operational efficiency and ensures affiliates receive their earnings promptly.
Sharing plans for 2025 Anastasia Borovaya, Head of Affilka by SOFTSWISS, highlights: “We are going to enhance our platform with powerful features like Cohort Analysis, Traffic Report for affiliates, and improved Subaffiliate Module with new commission plans and reporting tools. The additional geo-specific payment methods for affiliate cashouts will strengthen the platform. We will also continue to focus on optimising traffic delivery, load balancing and enhancing system stability and fault tolerance to ensure uninterrupted traffic flow.”
Cohort Analysis will provide deeper insights into player behaviour over time. Traffic Report for affiliates will ensure comprehensive data on user clicks by click country, user agent, device, operating system, and other vital criteria.
The Affilka by SOFTSWISS team anticipates insightful discussions and potential collaboration at iGB Affiliate on 21–22 January in Barcelona. Partners and customers can book a meeting at stand C10 via the link.
The global bookmaker 1xBet has announced that on January 20, will light up Barcelona with an exclusive party, “The ark of the future – a futuristic event from 1xBet. An occasion that will define trends.” The brand’s grand celebration will go down in history and combine modern technology with art.
John Newman
The headliner of the evening will be the popular singer John Newman. The British musician’s voice inspires millions, and his energy will make the show unforgettable. John Newman is the author of the hits Love Me Again and Blame, which have become party anthems worldwide. He knows exactly how to create the atmosphere of a big holiday that will be remembered for a lifetime.
The celebration will be held in the incredibly atmospheric and historically significant place – the Maritime Museum of Barcelona. The location features majestic old shipyards and is ideal for a futuristic event, harmoniously combining the past and the future. The space’s centuries-old history will add special symbolism to the evening, emphasizing the unity of tradition and innovation. Guest registration will begin at 20:00.
The ark of the future will be a cultural revolution and embody the synergy of the new time. It will bring together leaders, visionaries, and those already creating the future of the iGaming industry today. The celebration will be an ideal platform for casual communication and expanding professional networking.
The number of invitations to the 1xBet party is limited. To attend this exclusive event, you must leave a request via the chatbot. Perhaps you will be the lucky ticket winner.
Don’t miss the chance to have a great time – leave a request in the chatbot and wait for a response from 1xBet managers!
