Good Morning. Predictive analytics have yet to reach the scope of Minority Report, but AI usage in both online and land-based casinos has become essential, helping boost player protection and safeguard against fraud, indicates a top panel of experts. Looking to Macau results, analysts at UBS have lowered their EBITDA estimates for FY26, despite expectations for 5% GGR growth, weighed towards the first half of the year. And in regulatory news, experts are calling for a shift away from reactive policymaking in Australia, as efforts to find the ‘right model’ have ripple effects far beyond the desired outcomes.
What you need to know
- AI is key for fraud detection and player protection, with advantages both online and on the casino floor, say experts.
- UBS cuts Macau gaming sector EBITDA estimates for 2026, maintains expectations for 5% GGR growth, led by stronger 1H26 momentum.
- Australia needs to shift away from reactive policymaking towards a model that protects players, lessens friction, and doesn’t stifle innovation: experts.
On the radar
- The Star Brisbane appoints Dave Whimpey as COO and interim CEO.
- Concerts help drive Macau’s March GGR toward 14% YoY growth: Citigroup.
- Melco taps Chinese actor Jing Boran as City of Dreams brand ambassador.
- Paradise Ent. FY25 profit at $17.8M on casino closure, lower LMG sales.
- Paradise City at 1,270 keys as Hyatt Regency Incheon opens.
AGB Intelligence
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
AI boosting fraud detection and player protection: experts
The most important applications of AI for the gaming sector remain based in predictive analytics, fraud detection and player protection. That’s according to a panel of experts at Regulating the Game 2026, who venerated AI’s application to both online and land-based gaming. Concerns still remain about privacy, KYC, decision-making AI, and online attacks, but overall AI is being lauded as essential in the fight against fraud and the race to maximize efficiency.
Industry Updates
- JCM Global highlights innovations for Australasian operators at AHG 2026.
- SJM Resorts donates MOP300,000 to Macau Holy House of Mercy.
- Spinmatic debuts Sizzling Blaze Jackpot Lite, launching its new LITE series.
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