Good Morning. The grey and black markets continue to thrive in Southeast Asia, with the United Nations again pointing a finger at illicit operations which exploit loopholes to facilitate fraud and money laundering. A new UNODC report highlights underground banking services and online gambling operations as key for their ongoing success, despite regulatory attempts. Meanwhile, Thailand continues its stumble-start towards casino legislation, attempting to overcome numerous bumps in the road despite general government support.
What you need to know
- UNODC warns that Southeast Asian crime networks are diversifying from online gambling into financial fraud, cybercrime, and illicit finance.
- Thai casino-entertainment complex bill faces major roadblocks, including coalition opposition and public concerns over moral and ethical issues.
On the radar
- Macau welcomed over 500k visitors during the Easter holiday.
- Macau’s failed ultra-luxury hotel The 13 is again up for sale.
- MGM Resorts Int’l agrees to $8.5M agreement over AML complaint.
- Thai authorities bust $95M online gambling ring.
AGB Intelligence
ONLINE GAMBLING
UN warns that organized crime is on the rise
Southeast Asia has become a hotbed for new, diversified criminal operations, with online gaming a key component of how criminal syndicates move and filter money, according to a new report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. The international body highlights how extensive syndicates can target weak regulatory jurisdictions, offering lucrative opportunities and facilitating fraud and money laundering.
Industry Updates
- SEGA SAMMY CREATION to showcase Genesis Atmos cabinet at G2E Asia 2025.
- NOVOMATIC strengthens distribution presence in Asia with Harvest Gaming.
- BetConstruct launches tool for better Sportsbook Risk Management control.
INTELLIGENCE | ASEAN | CAREERS
