Good morning. Listening to the people. Thailand’s draft bill for entertainment complexes is moving forward, with potential revisions to location and operational details expected before its introduction next year. This comes as concerns about social impacts and gambling addiction have been raised by industry leaders, highlighting the need for clear regulations and careful planning. Meanwhile, the Australian government is considering significant restrictions on gambling advertising, including a complete ban on digital ads and a prohibition on television commercials before and after sports broadcasts. Moving to the UAE, MGM Resorts CEO Bill Hornbuckle has confirmed the group has already officially submitted a request for a license in the country.
What you need to know
- Thailand’s casino bill faces potential changes under the new government, as some sectors express concerns about social impacts.
- The Australian government is contemplating significant restrictions on gambling advertising, which could include a complete ban on digital ads.
- MGM Resorts has officially submitted its proposal to the UAE government to operate a casino, CEO Bill Hornbuckle announced.
On the radar
- Macau’s retail sales fall 26.4% YoY in July, despite the uptick in tourism.
- Wynn Resorts to settle $70 mln class-action lawsuit over misconduct allegations.
- Universal Entertainment appoints Tomohiro Okada as President.
- Macau welcomes 23M tourists in the first eight months of 2024.
- Two suspects in a major online gambling case surrendered in China.
AGB Intelligence
THAILAND
Thailand’s IR bill advances amid calls for revisions and transparency
Thailand’s draft bill for entertainment complexes is progressing, with potential revisions to details like location and operational requirements expected before its introduction next year, following public hearings held in August. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat acknowledges the need for adjustments based on feedback, highlighting the importance of transparency in the process, while industry leaders offer mixed reactions regarding the potential benefits and risks associated with the bill.
Corporate Spotlight
Altenar brings premium sportsbook solution to Asia
Altenar, a leading sportsbook provider is bringing its global expertise to Asia, looking to expand its operations. Since 2011, Altenar has powered hundreds of online sports betting sites worldwide and is a major B2B provider in Europe and Latin America licensed markets.
1xBet: The most popular gambling games and slots in Asia
For global betting company 1xBet, Asia is a key market for several reasons. 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.
Industry Updates
- Oktoberfest Macau 2024 returns to MGM in October.
- LuckyStreak awarded Malta gaming authority recognition.
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