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The most popular gambling games and slots in Asia according to 1xBet

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This is why 1xBet pays special attention to the Asian market and actively promotes its sports betting platform and the most popular gambling games on the continent. As a result, the 1xBet audience in Asia is expanding year by year and accounts for a significant percentage of the 3,000,000 players who visit the platform monthly. 

The region’s professional community appreciates 1xBet achievements and regularly nominates the betting company for prestigious industry awards. This year alone, the brand received the Digital Sports Betting Operator Of The Year 2024 statuettes at the Global Gaming Awards Asia-Pacific and the Best Mobile Casino 2024 at the SiGMA Eurasia Awards 2024.

And 1xPartners deservedly became the Affiliate Company of the Year 2024, according to the International Gaming Awards 2024. Currently, the 1xBet affiliate program unites more than 100,000 affiliates worldwide, earning up to 50% of commissions from the referred players’ bets. The undeniable advantages of the 1xBet platform help to convert up to 65% of new players into active customers who make their first deposit. Most newcomers from Asia bet on online gambling, and today, we’ll explore the most popular gambling entertainment in this region.

The 1xGames section contains thousands of gambling games from the most famous providers for every taste. The player will find here the most popular slots, lotteries, ladders, card and gambling games of other genres with exciting gameplay and big wins.

1. Under and Over 7

This simple game with minimalist gameplay simulates dice, one of the oldest gambling games in human history. At the beginning of a round, the player chooses one of three outcomes: “Under 7,” “Over 7,” or “Exactly 7.” Next, the player places a bet and watches the roll of a pair of dice. It is easier to guess the first two outcomes, so the winnings are x2.3 of the bet amount. However, the lucky seven is much rarer and harder to guess, with significantly higher winnings at x5.8 of the bet. Under and Over 7 attracts players with its simplicity and the possibility of quick winnings.

2. Crash

At the start of each round, a plane takes off into the sky, with the winning odds increasing every moment of the flight. The player’s task is to claim his winnings before the inevitable explosion. If the player succeeds, he receives the bet amount multiplied by the current odds displayed on the screen when he exits the game. If the explosion occurs before the player claims the winnings, the bet is lost. In Crash, players can adopt a cautious tactic, taking winnings early with odds just above x1.0, or an aggressive tactic, waiting for odds of x10 or higher.

3. Crystal

Games with crystals are among the favorites for Asian players. The Crystal version from 1xBet features an updated interface: a real drama unfolds around the playing field with a mysterious thief attempting to rob the royal treasury. However, the player’s main task in Crystal remains unchanged—to achieve a winning combination of 5 or more matching same-color crystals vertically and/or horizontally. A combination of 5 crystals pays a multiplier of x0.3-x0.5, and 9 or more pays x8-x10. Any missing symbols for success can be replaced by the Wild symbol Coin. After paying out the winnings, the crystals disappear, and new ones take their place, potentially forming the next combination.

4. 21

The player competes against the dealer, who distributes two cards at the start of the round. The goal is to accumulate the highest score without exceeding 21 points, with a pair of aces being an exception as they automatically count as 21 points. Players can draw as many cards as they wish, while the dealer must draw cards until reaching at least 17 points and must stop once the total is 17 or higher.

5. Apple of Fortune

Apple of Fortune is a fairy-tale game featuring Snow White and her evil stepmother, who attempts to poison her stepdaughter. The game has ten levels, each requiring the player to select the correct cell with a ripe apple and avoid the poisoned ones. In the earlier levels, there is only one poisoned apple, maximizing the chances of picking correctly. In the later levels, there is only one ripe apple, but the winning odds can reach up to x350. The player can choose to stop and collect the winnings at any time, though the boldest players often go all the way to the end in hopes of maximizing the jackpot!

Slots are a recognized gambling classic that has been transferred from casino halls to online. At 1xBet, you will find many interesting options, ranging from minimalistic retro slots with a tiny playing field to ultra-modern 3D slots with impressive design. All slots share one common feature—the chance to enjoy the game and hit the jackpot.

Gates of Olympus, Pragmatic Play

1. Gates of Olympus

The hit from Pragmatic Play lets players explore the world of ancient Greek mythology. This slot features six reels and five rows and stands out with cascading symbols and payouts anywhere on the screen. To win, you need to collect 8 or more matching symbols or 4 or more Scatter symbols. Generous Zeus awards multipliers ranging from x2 to x500, allowing players to win up to x5000 of their bet amount!

2. Dragon Tiger

The Dragon Tiger game board has 5 reels and 4 symbols, featuring playing card icons and golden figures. Winnings are awarded when two identical symbols align from left to right, regardless of lines. The Tiger is the highest-paying symbol, the Dragon acts as the Wild symbol, and the Dragon Tiger tablet serves as a bonus, multiplying the bet and triggering Free Spins mode. Asian players favor this slot for its thematic relevance and the chance to win up to x18,000 of the bet amount.

3. 7’s Baccarat

In this slot, the player observes the Baccarat game and tries to predict the outcome. Correctly guessing a win for either the player or dealer doubles the bet, while a correct guess of a draw pays x8 of the bet. If you want to immerse yourself in the world of Baccarat and virtual casinos without playing directly, this slot is an excellent choice.

4. Energy Coins: Hold and Win

This classic slot with 5 reels and 3 symbols includes a range of bonuses and Hold and Win mechanics. Payouts happen on five lines when 3 matching symbols align. The Bonus, Energy Bonus, and Wild symbols then come into play, as well as four types of jackpots at once: Mini, Manor, Major, and Grand, which can bring up to x5000 of the bet amount!

5. Aviator

The mechanics of this game are similar to Crash. The player must guess when the plane will take off with his bet. To avoid losing, you need to collect your winnings in time. The longer the plane stays in the air, the higher the winning odds. A standout feature of the Aviator slot is the ability to place two bets on the same flight and collect winnings at different times, enhancing your chances of winning!

Asia is one of the key markets for 1xBet for a reason. The variety of betting and gambling products on the platform impresses even the most demanding customers. Any customer will find a suitable option on the 1xBet platform, be it classic card games or innovative slot machines.

If you want to take advantage of the popularity of 1xBet in Asia and regularly receive solid commissions, leave an application to join the 1xPartners Affiliate Program. Active participation in the 1xBet Affiliate Program allows our partners to earn significant income by attracting new customers and increasing activity on the platform. Join the 1xPartners and see for yourself!

Alice Guo’s sister, POGO incorporator to be deported to Philippines: PH president

The sister of runaway Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo and the incorporator of a Pampanga-based Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) should be returning to the Philippines after their arrest in Indonesia, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. confirmed.

According to the Philippine News Agency, on the sidelines of an event, the president said he is expecting Shiela Guo, the former mayor’s sister, and Cassandra Li Ong, the representative of the Lucky South 99 POGO, to be sent back to the Philippines either today or Friday.

Meanwhile, Senator Raffy Tulfo announced via Facebook that the two were sent back by Indonesian authorities and are expected to arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport at 5:05pm on a Philippine Airlines flight.

Senator Raffy Tulfo wants probe into Chinese influx in Metro Manila
Senator Raffy Tulfo

Alice Guo, who left the country in July, reportedly traveled to Jakarta from Singapore on a cruise ship with Ong. The Bureau of Immigration in the Philippines had previously reached out to Indonesian authorities for assistance in locating the pair.

Ong and Sheila Guo were apprehended on August 10th at Mega Mall Batam Center in Riau, Indonesia. Alice Guo was not with them at the time of their arrest. The Senate Office of the Sergeant-at-Arms is coordinating with the Manila International Airport Authority to serve an arrest order for Sheila Guo upon her arrival.

Senate President Francis “Chiz” Escudero mentioned that further coordination with Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros is needed regarding potential contempt actions against Ong. Notably, Ong is also subject to an outstanding warrant from the House of Representatives.

Senator Risa Hontiveros, Philippines, Alice Guo, Pogo Mayor
Senator Risa Hontiveros

Hontiveros expressed optimism about the Senate inquiry into POGOs and its connection to Mayor Guo, describing the situation as a “promising development.” She anticipates both Ong and Sheila Guo’s participation in a Senate hearing scheduled for Tuesday, where they will be held accountable for their previous absence.

Hontiveros emphasized that Ong’s testimony would be critical in uncovering individuals who may have assisted Alice Guo in fleeing the country and identifying gaps in the immigration system.

The ongoing investigation into former Mayor Alice Guo’s departure has led to calls for enhanced accountability for those involved in her exit. The Philippine government has ordered the cancellation of the passports of Alice, her siblings, and Ong.

Alice Guo is facing serious criminal charges, including violations of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act. Further cases are being pursued related to her alleged involvement in POGO operations. The Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) has requested that her request for a hearing be denied due to her absence at prior sessions.

Imperial Pacific proposes to sell Saipan casino and other assets for $10M

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Imperial Pacific International (IPI) has filed a request with the US federal bankruptcy court to approve the sale of its hotel casino and other real estate assets to businessman Loi Lam Sit for $10 million.

According to the local media outlet Marianas Variety, IPI, through its attorney, Chuck Choi, has asked the court to approve the proposed competitive bidding and sale procedures for these major assets.

Choi has also requested a hearing on November 20th, 2024, to consider the final approval of the sale of IPI’s property, free of liens and encumbrances, to Loi Lam Sit—the “stalking horse” bidder—or to a higher bidder.

A “stalking horse purchaser” is a term that describes an initial bidder selected by a bankrupt company to make the first offer on its assets. This bid establishes the minimum price that the assets can be sold for in a bankruptcy auction. The term “stalking horse” reflects the role of the initial bid in setting a benchmark, encouraging other potential buyers to place higher offers.

Loi Lam Sit, a Hong Kong resident, is the general manager of Top Pride International Ltd., a wholesale distributor of cosmetic products.

IPI’s major real estate assets include its casino, located within its hotel building, which sits on approximately 19,204 square meters of land leased from the CNMI Department of Public Lands (DPL) under lease agreement. Additionally, IPI holds an ownership interest in Imperial Pacific Properties LLC, which has leasehold rights to eight lots adjacent to the leased property.

IPI filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the District Court for the NMI on April 19th, 2024, citing debts exceeding $165.8 million.

Attorney Chuck Choi noted that IPI operated a casino for four years until the COVID-19 pandemic forced its closure in March 2020.

Hotel construction halted in 2021, and since then, the hotel has been exposed to the elements and is now in poor condition.

Saipan, CNMI, legalize online gaming

The estimated cost to complete the hotel construction ranges from $100 million to $150 million.

The proposed closing date is set for seven days after the court issues an order approving the sale motion. All sale transactions must be completed by December 31st, 2024.

IPI’s attorney explained that the company believes the proposed bidding procedures offer a crucial and tangible benefit to the estate. These procedures establish the framework for assessing the value of the assets at a public auction. The auction’s terms and conditions are designed to help the trustee secure the maximum value for the assets, ensuring that the process serves the best interests of both the estate and the creditors.

The Star to close Treasury Brisbane Casino Aug. 25th ahead of Queen’s Wharf opening

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The Star Entertainment Group has confirmed it received approval to close The Treasury Brisbane Casino to the public at midnight on Sunday, August 25th ahead of the opening of Queen’s Wharf Brisbane.

The group previously decided to shift the operations of its current gaming operation in the city – Treasury Casino – to The Star Brisbane, making it the only casino operation in Brisbane.

The Star Brisbane is part of the AU$3.6 billion ($2.37 billion) Queen’s Wharf Brisbane project – encompassing luxury hotels, a casino retail, event center and Sky Deck.

According to the operator, this closure – approved by the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation – is a key step in the final preparations for the planned staged opening of Queens Wharf Brisbane, pending final regulatory approvals.

Starting August 29th, The Star Grand will officially begin accepting hotel bookings. The hotel features 340 rooms, which include 60 suites, four Penthouse suites, and 276 standard rooms.

Australia and UAE regulators to attend Rome gaming regulatory conference

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Australian and UAE gaming regulators will be present at the International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) conference in Rome from October 21st to 24th.

The IAGR and the International Masters of Gaming Law (IMGL) have finalized the program for their upcoming joint conference, which will take place in Italy. This event will explore the future of gaming regulation and law in a rapidly changing global landscape.

The National Self-Exclusion Manager at the Australian Communications and Media Authority Matthew Anderson; the CEO and Deputy Chair of the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC), Annette Kimmitt and Andrew Scott; and the CEO of the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) in the United Arab Emirates, Kevin Mullally, will attend the conference.

Anderson will carry out a talk on self-exclusion, while Kimmitt and Mullaly will be part of a panel centered on worldwide gaming regulatory differences and approaches.

The GCGRA was created in September of 2023, with Mullally, a former executive director of the Missouri Gaming Commission, appointed as CEO. This month the UAE gaming authority issued its first federal lottery license, positioning the UAE as the first Gulf state to legalize gaming. 

‘This panel will explore this statement, seeking to provide a fresh perspective on where the opportunities to work better together really exist in 2024. Where are the moments and why hasn’t it worked in the past. Where are the lines that can’t be crossed and where and who can provide the previously unexploited opportunities’, the organisation informed.

Jamie Nettleton
Jamie Nettleton, Partner, Addisons

Meanwhile, Andrew Scott, Commissioner and Deputy Chair Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission will be part of a panel with Jamie Nettleton, a Partner of Addisons, Australia, and centered casino license suitability.

Earlier this year, Scott and the other four VGCCC Commissioners decided the fate of Crown Melbourne, the holder of Victoria’s monopoly casino license.

The conference describes itself as the ‘premier conference for global gaming regulators and industry visionaries’. Its speakers also include gaming regulators and experts from the UK, Canada (Ontario), Denmark, Botswana, Jamaica, and the United States (Massachusetts).

Ben Haden, President, IAGR, Australia, UAE
Ben Haden, President, IAGR

Over the four days, attendees will engage with the latest trends, insights, and research, while sharing best practices and lessons learned.

IAGR President Ben Haden emphasized the significance of the conference themes, remarking that the gaming environment is constantly evolving due to technological advancements, globalization, changing market dynamics, and the ongoing issue of illegal gaming.

Haden noted that the collaboration with IMGL aims to enhance networking and knowledge exchange opportunities. Haden furthered that while some sessions will focus on regulatory challenges and others on legal issues, all participants—regulators, lawyers, researchers, academics, and industry leaders—will find the content highly relevant.

Daily Asia Gaming eBrief: Guidance expected in coming days/weeks over POGO ban

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What you need to know


On the radar


AGB Intelligence

PHILIPPINES

Makati City, Philippines, POGO ban

“Noise and speculation” about POGO ban abounds

Operators, regulators, politicians and stakeholders continue to hold their breath in regards to the recent ban on offshore gaming operators (POGOs, now known as IGLs) announced by the Philippine president. Top gaming lawyer Tonet Quiogue notes that bills will still need to be passed through legislative bodies to confirm the ban, despite the December 31st deadline, but that guidance for PAGCOR should come within the next “days or weeks”.


Corporate Spotlight

How 1xBet dominates the Asian market: conditions and approach

1xBet, Asian Market

1xBet operates in several dozen countries in Asia, and the number of partners in this region is growing steadily, which indicates the effectiveness of the 1xPartners affiliate program. The brand offers favorable conditions and a modern set of tools for making money on the Internet.

Know Your Enemy: An Interactive Guide to Online Gaming Fraud

Sumsub, Online Gaming Fraud, verification platform

Online gaming fraud is on the rise in the iGaming industry. In Q1 2022, there was an 85% increase in fake account registrations compared to Q4 2021. While players are undoubtedly affected by gaming fraud, iGaming platforms also suffer due to damaged reputations, huge financial losses, and legal consequences.


Industry Updates


MEMBERSHIP | INTELLIGENCE | ASEAN | CAREERS

Cambodians lost $40 million to online scams in 1H24, Minister reports

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Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sar Sokha has said that Cambodians were defrauded of nearly $40 million in the first half of the year.

Sokha, who also chairs the National Committee for Combatting Human Trafficking (NCCT), has called on law enforcement and other relevant authorities to ramp up their efforts in the fight against human trafficking, highlighting the increasing sophistication of criminals involved in these activities.

Sokha made these remarks while presiding over the 8th annual “National Interfaith Day against Human Trafficking,” held at the Chroy Changvar International Convention and Exhibition Centre in Phnom Penh. The event, which focused on the theme “Religious Moral Education in the Prevention of Human Trafficking in the Digital Era,” drew an audience of around 2,500 participants.

Sar Sokha, Minister of Interior of Cambodia
Sar Sokha, Minister of Interior of Cambodia

During his speech, Sokha emphasized that the methods employed by human traffickers have grown more vicious over time, necessitating a stronger and more coordinated response from all stakeholders involved in prevention efforts.

He noted that while digital technology has made the transfer of money and payment of funds more convenient, it has also inadvertently facilitated criminal activities, particularly online scams linked to human trafficking. Sokha revealed that in the first half of 2024 alone, Cambodians were defrauded of nearly $40 million through online scams, a trend that poses a significant threat to social security if left unchecked.

“Cambodia is facing the same challenges as the rest of the world,” Sokha said.

“In the first six months of 2024, due to online fraud and digital scams, Cambodians lost nearly $40 million. Recovering and returning these funds to victims of high-tech fraud has proven to be a significant challenge.”

Sar Sokha

Sokha also addressed the ongoing issue of criminals luring people to Cambodia with promises of high-paying jobs, only to abduct them upon arrival and force them to work for criminal organizations. He cited the government’s firm response to these illegal activities, noting that during a six-month crackdown on illegal online operations in Sihanoukville, authorities rescued over 1,600 people of eight different nationalities and successfully repatriated them to their home countries.

Sokha underscored that the Cambodian government has no intention of supporting illegal investments in the country. He dismissed any criticisms from human rights organizations regarding Cambodia’s efforts to combat these issues, stating that the government is committed to its strategic plan to improve the country’s image and will continue to tackle the problem head-on.

National Committee for Combatting Human Trafficking (NCCT), Cambodia

He also praised the NCCT for developing a clear action plan and providing regular, targeted reports to stakeholders on the fight against human trafficking. Sokha called on all parties involved to intensify their efforts to prevent human trafficking and curb online fraud, stressing that this fight requires collective action across all sectors.

Sokha highlighted the crucial role that Cambodia’s religious groups play in this effort, particularly through the teachings of the Dharma and religious education. He noted that monks can be instrumental in raising awareness among young people, who are especially vulnerable to trafficking and related crimes.

One month after POGO ban order: Unclear path forward

One month has passed since Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced a sweeping ban on Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs). Although the ban took immediate effect, with a deadline of December 31st, 2024, for shutting down all operations, the announcement has stirred considerable debate and concern. The specifics of how the ban will be implemented remain ambiguous.

Marie Antonette Quiogue, Romulo Law
Tonet Quiogue, gaming law expert based in the Philippines

Legal expert in the gaming industry, Tonet Quiogue, told AGB that while the President has the authority to announce such a ban, a formal legal framework requires additional steps.

“Congress, through both the Senate and the House of Representatives, also has the power to enact legislation regarding the legality or illegality of certain industries or businesses in the Philippines,” Tonet explained.

For the ban to become a permanent law, a bill must be introduced in the House of Representatives and go through the standard legislative process, including three readings and approval by the President. Tonet noted, “The bill still requires more detail and clarity, but that is what the legislative process is for.”

Noise

Tonet also commented on the current climate of uncertainty and speculation.

“There is a lot of noise and different speculations about what will happen to the industry (POGOs and gaming in general) due to varying opinions in the news and on social media every day.”

Tonet Quiogue

As a lawyer and advisor to gaming companies both locally and internationally, Tonet advised, “The best thing we can do is maintain the status quo and wait for clear guidance from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). I believe this guidance will come in the next days or weeks, once they have consulted with the concerned government agencies.”

AGB has learned that, despite foreign POGO workers being given a deadline of September 24th to voluntarily leave the Philippines or face deportation, most POGO operators continue their operations while awaiting further notice from PAGCOR. 

CEZA, Cagayan Economic Zone Authority, Philippines

However, some operators have shown intentions to shift to underground activities, while others may seek a license from the Cagayan Economic Zone Authority (CEZA). According to CEZA CEO Katrina Ponce Enrile, the interactive gaming licenses issued by CEZA are not within the scope of the POGO ban. These interactive gaming licenses share some similarities with POGOs, but so far, there have been few discussions about the feasibility of shifting from one to the other.

Makati City, Philippines, POGOS, Offshore Gaming, Online gaming

Misinterpretation of “upgraded version” of POGOs

Earlier this month, PAGCOR said that it is exploring the possibility of an “upgraded version” of POGOs, despite President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s mandate to shut down POGO operations under its purview.

Alejandro H. Tengco, the head of the Philippines’ gaming regulator, made these comments during a House of Representatives committee on appropriations meeting. This has led to ongoing speculation about the future of POGOs. However, Tonet points out that the “comments may have been misinterpreted.”

“PAGCOR’s position remains to implement the President’s ban on POGOs, and they are working with other agencies to ensure a smooth enforcement of this directive. The mention of an ‘upgrade’ likely arose from a Congressman’s question about potential future plans for an ‘upgraded version’ of POGOs. Chairman Tengco responded politely, indicating that it is a topic for future consideration. However, there are no current plans to revive POGOs or introduce Integrated Gaming Licenses (IGLs) in the near future.”

Alejandro. H Tengco, Chairman and CEO, PAGCOR

BPOs remain unaffected

The Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector that supports these gaming companies is set to remain operational.

Last month, PAGCOR’s chairman indicated that up to 14 B2B service companies working with overseas gaming operators and employing over 9,000 Filipinos should be spared from the ban.

According to Tengco, these BPOs, which provide critical support services for gaming companies based in Australia, Canada, Europe, and the United States, do not directly participate in gambling activities. Instead, they offer auxiliary services that assist the primary gaming operations.

This distinction is crucial, as it means these BPOs are not classified as gaming licensees and therefore should not be subject to the same restrictions imposed on IGLs.

SkyCity revenue flat, improved by rise in premium mass play in NZ and Adelaide

SkyCity Entertainment Group has announced that its reported loss for its financial year, ended June 30th, rose to some NZ$143.2 million ($88.23 million), amongst compressed revenue due to ‘a challenging operating environment’.

While overall group revenue was up by 0.3 percent, to NZ$928.5 million ($572 million), EBITDA fell by 16.7 percent yearly, to NZ$138.2 million ($85.15 million), also due to the ‘impact of the significant accounting adjustments’.

Jason Walbridge, SkyCity CEO
Jason Walbridge, CEO, SkyCity Entertainment

Speaking of the results, the group’s CEO Jason Walbridge noted that “SkyCity is coming off a very challenging financial year, with the combination of the soft economy, cost-of-living pressures in both New Zealand and Adelaide, and responding to various regulatory matters”.

Gaming revenue for the group fell by 2.9 percent yearly, reaching NZ$727.7 million ($448.34 million), partially lifted by strong Premium Table Games performance – which rose 53.6 percent yearly, to NZ$39.5 million ($24.34 million).

Gaming machine revenue continued to be the strongest contributor, at NZ$453.2 million ($279.2 million) – a 5.1 percent drop. The group notes the segment was ‘impacted by economic uncertainty in New Zealand partially offset by a second half recovery in Adelaide’.

Table Games revenue also fell, by 2.4 percent, to NZ$225.6 million ($139 million), ‘rebased to a new level following an improvement in labor availability in New Zealand and changes to cash limits in Adelaide’.

Online Gaming revenue fell by 39.2 percent to just NZ$9.3 million ($5.73 million).

SkyCity Auckland continued to be the main gaming revenue driver – bringing in some NZ$456.5 million ($281.25 million), a slight fall of 0.8 percent.

SkyCity Auckland, New Zealand
SkyCity Auckland, New Zealand

Premium Table revenue was up 64 percent, to NZ$25 million ($15.4 million), due to a ‘higher than theoretical win rate’.

Gaming Machine revenue was down by 6.6 percent – to NZ$285 million ($175.6 million), due to the economic environment and ‘increased host responsibility initiatives’.

Local Table revenue was up by 4.9 percent, to NZ$146.5 million ($90.26 million).

The group’s Australian operation, SkyCity Adelaide also saw strong Premium Table revenue increases, up 39 percent yearly to NZ$12.3 million ($7.58 million).

SkyCity Adelaide
SkyCity Adelaide, Australia

Overall, gaming revenue at the property fell by 4.9 percent, to NZ$170.9 million ($105.3 million)

Gaming Machine revenue fell by 0.8 percent, to NZ$99.7 million ($61.43 million), helped by an improvement in the second half of the fiscal year. Local Table revenue was down 16.3 percent, to NZ$58.8 million ($36.23 million) influenced by ‘operational changes, including reduced opening hours and the introduced cash limits’.

Regarding the property, the group notes that ‘declaratory proceedings are pending in the casino duty dispute with Revenue South Australia’. It’s also expecting to receive the report of an independent review into SkyCity Adelaide’s operations, after it settled with AUSTRAC, by December 31st of this year.

Online expectations

The group notes that the results from its online sector reflect ‘the operating disadvantage SkyCity is currently facing due to the lack of regulation and the limited enforcement of current restrictions against overseas operations’.

But it highlights its preparations for New Zealand to regulate online gaming, ‘expected to be in place from early 2026’, noting that it is ‘increasing the project team and actively working to progress New Zealand online gaming opportunity’.

In June the group announced that it was divesting its entire shareholding in Gaming Innovation Group (GiG), which it acquired in April of 2022. The sale was completed in July of this year.

Outlook

Looking ahead, the group expects its fiscal 2025 to yield underlying group EBITDA of between NZ$245 million ($150.94 million) and NZ$265 million ($163.27 million), and doesn’t expect to pay a dividend.

It’s also expecting costs of some NZ$20 million ($12.23 million) to NZ$30 million ($18.48 million), linked to regulatory and project related costs at SkyCity Adelaide, costs associated with Horizon by SkyCity opening in August 2024, pre-opening operational investment for the New Zealand International Convention Center (scheduled to open in 2025) and investment in its online gaming capability ahead of potential regulations in New Zealand.

“A key milestone in customer care and experience will begin next year with the introduction of 100 percent carded play across our New Zealand casinos by July 2025, and at the SkyCity Adelaide casino by early 2026. Once implemented, carded play will be the only way to game at SkyCity,” noted the group CEO.

The group is estimating that initial impact of Mandatory Carded Play (MCP) will be ’15 percent to 20 percent of annual uncarded gaming revenue,’ noting that there is a ‘high degree of uncertainty associated with this assumption’.

Macau and China joint operation dismantles $420M illicit FX trading ring

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Recent joint operations by mainland China and Macau authorities targeting unauthorized currency exchange around Macau casinos have led to the detention of 252 suspects.

These individuals are believed to be intermediaries in an illegal foreign currency trade, which authorities estimate to be worth RMB3 billion ($420 million).

China’s Ministry of Public Security disclosed more details on Tuesday, revealing that 1,200 police officers were involved in the operation. Of the 252 suspects, 57 were arrested by Macau police and have since been handed over to Chinese authorities.

The crackdown targeted not only Macau but also the Chinese provinces of Guangdong and Jiangxi, where authorities encountered a total of 19 criminal syndicates. 

China’s Ministry of Public Security indicated that these suspects had formed criminal gangs linked by family, relatives, and friends. Gang leaders issued remote commands while members were assigned roles such as withdrawing cash from banks, connecting with underground money exchanges, and recruiting clients for currency exchange near Macau casinos and hotels.

Macau, China’s National Immigration Administration, Ministry of Public Security

These gangs have been engaged in illegal foreign exchange activities in Macau for an extended period, ‘involving significant sums of money’ and ‘causing severe disruptions to social security in the region’.

The Ministry of Public Security also announced that public security agencies will continue their specialized crackdown actions, oversee and handle major cases, ‘maintain a high-pressure stance’, and ‘resolutely curb the development and spread of illegal activities derived from money exchange gangs’.

Earlier this month, the Second Standing Committee of the Macau Legislative Assembly changed its stance and agreed to criminalize money exchange gangs.

Previously, the government had opposed this move, citing the complexities involved in legal adjustments. However, intensified efforts by both mainland Chinese and Macau police, including a recent murder case at a Macau hotel, have spurred renewed debate on the issue.

According to the lawmaking entity, a new provision will be added to the Illegal Gaming Offense bill. The new article, titled “Unlawful Exchange of Money for Betting,” specifies that anyone conducting a business of exchanging loans and coins for gambling purposes without legal authorization faces a maximum penalty of up to five years in prison. The minimum penalty is set at one-month imprisonment. 

Additionally, the provision includes that any unauthorized money exchange activities conducted in a casino or its ancillary facilities—such as hotels, entertainment complexes, or other commercial establishments considered part of an integrated resort—will be classified as an offense.