Good Morning. Against all risks. Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand Phumtham Wechayachai has framed the entertainment complex bill currently under discussion as an economic lifeline for the country to offset rising US tariffs on Thai exports. In a recap of the ASEAN Gaming Summit, a panel of industry experts, moderated by Casino Plus CEO Evan Spytma, discussed strategies for integrating online and land-based gaming, addressing regulatory challenges, technological advancements, and attracting younger players. Meanwhile, a panel moderated by NYCE International’s Harmen Brenninkmeijer explored the regulatory implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in the gaming industry.
What you need to know
- Thai deputy PM defends casino bill as vital to counter US tariffs and boost economy, not to promote gambling.
- The convergence between the online and land-based space is ever-increasing; watch the ASEAN Gaming Summit 2025 panel!
- A top group of panelists at the ASEAN Gaming Summit 2025 explored the AI and Machine Learning boom, with a particular focus on regulation.
On the radar
- Casino revenue grows 28% MoM at Grand Korea Leisure in March.
- Visitor arrivals to the Philippines show slight decrease in 1Q25.
- Indigenous groups oppose New Zealand’s online gambling reforms.
- AGEM Index fell by 9.3% MoM in March, up 32.6% yearly.
AGB Intelligence
THAILAND
Deputy PM says casino bill essential for Thailand’s economic survival
Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand Phumtham Wechayachai has strongly defended the upcoming Entertainment Complex bill, which includes provisions for casinos, as a crucial economic strategy to counteract rising US tariffs on Thai exports. Set for parliamentary debate on April 9th, the bill aims to generate significant revenue to mitigate the impact of a 36% tariff hike, far exceeding Singapore’s 10%. Phumtham argued that the legislation is about economic survival rather than promoting gambling, citing support from 80% of over 70,000 participants in a recent online public hearing.
Going Live – Everyone is “Converging” | ASEAN 2025
Lines are getting blurred between the offline and online space as operators increasingly shift towards convergence. But some questions need to be addressed to properly, and legally, provide the crossover. And challenges still remain in trying to attract a younger demographic.
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The Artificial Intelligence revolution is fully upon us, presenting massive opportunities for innovation but also creating significant questions about oversight and regulation. Top experts examine how AI will shape sports betting and other sectors going forward and what needs to be done now.
Industry Updates
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Corporate Spotlight
UU Wallet: Bridging traditional finance and Web3 flexibility
With a strong focus on security and efficiency, UU Wallet stands out with its instant cryptocurrency exchange capabilities and globally accepted prepaid card, making it a preferred choice for those navigating the complexities of digital finance.
INTELLIGENCE | ASEAN | CAREERS
