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JULY 2014 • EDITION 141

TWITTER/@ICASINOREVIEW • WWW.CASINOREVIEW-ONLINE.COM

North America

News

ASIA: A WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITY

ATLANTIC CITY: IS THERE A BREAK OR BREAKING POINT ON THE AC HORIZON? 2 IGT’s Eric Tom discusses opportunities in Asia

MACAO GAMING SHOW The Asian expo unveils its exhibitor line-up 28

PEOPLE 42

THE BUSINESS NEWSPAPER FOR THE GLOBAL CASINO INDUSTRY

The politics of Japan are far from smooth, especially when it comes to casinos. But while the enabling bill that would allow the regulation of Integrated Resorts to go forward has been delayed until the autumn, it will return to the agenda with some hard-hitting backing - from the Prime Minister and his cabinet.

D JAPAN

LEGISLATION

Japanese Prime Minister puts his weight behind casino proposals

espite a delay in the anticipated timings for the discussion of the Integrated Resort Promotion Bill in Japan, the prospects for the controversial legislation are better than ever now that the powerful prime minister Shinzo Abe and the entire cabinet has given their full support to it. Prime Minister Abe said: “Integrated Resorts are expected to provide a great contribution to tourism, regional economies and industry, I think, and can be one of the key elements of Japan’s growth strategy.” He added: “I hope in my capacity as the leader of the Liberal Democratic Party that we can aim to pass it in the next extraordinary session of the Diet.” Since coming to power a

year-and-a-half ago, Abe has pursued policies of fiscal stimulus and easing of the monetary supply - known in Japan as Abenomics - to try and rid the national economy of deflation and bring out of well over a decade of poor performance. The economy contracted in the last quarter, which helped persuade the government to give its full backing to the opening of resorts with casino gaming at their heart, despite the significant opposing pressures that will be brought to bear. As many as ten IRs of varying sizes are expected to be approved, with two of the largest planned for bayisland locations in both Tokyo and Osaka. American companies such as Las Vegas Sands, Wynn and MGM

Resorts as well as the homegrown Universal Entertainment of Kazuo Okada and even Konami, better known as a gaming machine manufacturer, have all expressed strong interest and would together bring investment totalling many tens of billions of dollars. The rewards for those companies will come from having access to a vast untapped market that enjoys gambling. For Japan, the prospect of tens of thousands of jobs in both the construction and operation of the IRs is too good to pass up. The domestic market will provide a firm foundation for the resorts but will also help attract even more tourists: 2014 is expected to be a record year as the weak yen and eased visa condi-

tions encourage more visitors, including from ever wealthier China. According to Reuters, the projected spend by foreign tourists is expected to exceed that of Japanese tourists going abroad for the first time since 1970. If the trend continues and is bolstered by the new IRs, it will contribute to both the balance of payments and public coffers through taxation. The IR market could be worth as much as $40bn a year within five years of opening, according to estimates based on the experiences elsewhere in Asia. That would make it the second largest gaming market in the world after Macau. The Prime Minister signalled his growing support

Jap anese Pr ime Minister Shi nzo Abe ’s suppo rt make s the li keli ho od of casi no l egislati on passing i n Jap an much stronger

for the IR plan in May when he visited the two resorts in Singapore. The coalition he leads has a majority in both chambers of the parliament, though the New Komeito party is ambivalent towards the proposal. Nevertheless, there is also support across the aisles for IRs, which should now make the bill’s passage a racing certainty. The delay has made the already narrow window for getting at least some resorts up and running in time for the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo narrower still but phased openings will likely allow some latitude.

w w w. j c m g l o b a l . c om

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News World

ATLANTIC CITY

Will the closure of one of Caesars casinos allow others to survive a little more easily or is it the next step in a terminal decline for America’s second casino resort destination city?

Rot sets in as AC’s Showboat to close UNITED STATES

aesars Entertainment has announced that it is to close the Showboat Casino in Atlantic City at the end of August with the loss of more than 2,000 jobs.The shock announcement came on June 27 just a week after Revel, the great hope for a revival of fortunes for the New Jersey casino industry, went into bankruptcy for the second time in its short life. Caesars chairman and CEO Gary Loveman said: “While we regret the impact that this decision will have on our Showboat associates, we believe this is necessary step to help

2 | casinoreview July 2014

stabilise our business in Atlantic City and support the viability of our remaining operations in the vicinity. Since 2006, revenue in Atlantic City has declined by more than $3bn and competition in the city has increased.” A local union leader Bob McDevitt called the decision a “criminal act” as the casino is still profitable. Showboat is around midtable in terms of revenue generation in AC but like most has seen revenues in a continuous spiral of decline for eight years. In a statement the company said: “Caesars

remains the largest operator in Atlantic City and will continue efforts already underway to help revitalise and transform the area. Caesars is developing a new, state-of-the-art meetings facility adjacent to Harrah’s Atlantic City and is pursuing other opportunities to stimulate new visitation and growth.” Atlantic City started the year with 12 casinos, but not for long. In January the Atlantic Club closed after Colony Capital sold the casino’s assets to Tropicana and the site reverted to landowners Caesars. If Revel cannot find a way to

Don Guardian, Atlantic City’s mayor

restructure and a business model that can operate under the existing conditions, not the ideals that seem to have informed its strategy thus far, by the end of this year there could be only nine in operation. Atlantic City mayor Don Guardian, who has only been the job a few months, said just after the Showboat closure was announced: “Although it is sad today, it’s part of the transition that Atlantic City needs to have. There is pain as we go through this transition but it’s critical for Atlantic City to have realised we are no longer

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YXYXYXY AUSTRIA / MACAU / UNITED KINGDOM / UNITED STATES

ICR NEWS: WORLD 1-5 EUROPE 6-9 ASIA & OCEANIA 10-13 AFRICA & MIDDLE EAST 16-17 NORTH AMERICA 18-21 SOUTH & CENTRAL AMERICA 22-23 COMMENT & ANALYSIS 26-27

ANALYSIS howboat has effectively been squeezed out the market, not only by its owners but the prevailing business winds. The US model for the industry has changed greatly: in almost every part of the country now, you don’t have to travel more than a couple hours to find a casino. The old concentrations have less importance. Las Vegas has come through because of its history and its unique qualities as a destination. AC has less to offer. The mayor has said the closures are part of a transformation process but has not said, and perhaps does not know, what the transformation will result in.Unless someone can articulate a clear vision and soon, AC will end up as a couple of large, moderately successful hotelcasino resorts towering over a crumbling boardwalk and little else.

the monopoly of gaming on the East Coast. If you build more and more casinos and don’t increase the amount of people coming to them, you’re sharing that wealth. We’re just going through a very difficult time.” Ratings agency Fitch approved of Caesars move. In a note to investors it said: “The closure makes financial sense for Caesars and is a positive for the oversupplied Atlantic City market… [The company] will likely recapture most of the Showboat customers at its three other resort in Atlantic City.”

INTERGRATED RESORT

Studio City on track for mid-2015 opening MACAU

ntegrated casino resort developer Melco Crown Entertainment has revealed that its Studio City development in Macau is on course to open during the middle of next year. When completed, the Cotai venue will feature a 1,200-room luxury hotel alongside 290,000sq.ft of leasable retail area and a multi-purpose entertainment studio able to host a range of events including concerts and boxing matches. To bring its vision to reality, Melco announced that it has also increased the development’s budget by $300m (E220.1m) to $2.3bn (E1.6b) due to rises in construction costs including building and fit out expenses alongside design and consultant fees. “We are extremely excited about our newest integrated resort in Macau, which remains firmly on track to open in mid-2015,”

said Lawrence Ho, co-chairman and CEO of Melco Crown Entertainment. “The property’s cinematic theme and vast array of unique entertainment and attractions will enhance Macau’s appeal as a leading tourist destination in Asia. Studio City’s prime location directly adjacent to the Lotus Bridge immigration border and proposed light rail stop is one of the property’s key competitive advantages given the anticipated growth and widespread development plan for Hengqin Island. We look forward to working closely with the Macau government to bring this unique property to realisation.” Elsewhere, the Hong Kong-based firm’s Philippine subsidiary, Melco Crown Philippines Resorts Corporation, is hoping to raise as much as $129m (E94.6m) to help fund its City of Dreams development. The unit intends to sell as many as 485m shares after increasing the budget for its Manila casino by around a third to $840m (E616.5m).

CASINO LICENCE

MGM Resorts wins western Massachusetts licence

UNITED STATES

ollowing two years of hearings and background investigations proceeded by a week-long series of hearings and deliberations, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission has unanimously approved MGM Resorts International’s application to operate a resort casino in the city of Springfield. MGM officially announced its interest in the western Massachusetts licence in August 2012 and was originally one of five firms along-

side other heavyweights including Penn National Gaming vying for the right to bring a resort casino to the centre of the state’s third largest city. “This is a great day for Springfield, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and MGM Resorts,” said Jim Murren, Chairman and CEO of the Las Vegas-based casino operator. “We’re proud of what our talented team and our many dedicated city and community partners have accomplished together. We thank the Massachusetts Gaming Commission for its thorough vetting process and look forward to

continuing our work with Springfield mayor Domenic Sarno and other Springfield and western Massachusetts elected officials and governmental leaders along with residents and businesses of Springfield and the region as we move this project forward.” The finished $800m (E586.1m) development is to feature a 25-storey hotel offering 250 rooms alongside a spa, pool and roof deck in addition to 125,000sq.ft of gaming space with up to 3,000 slot machines, 75 gaming tables, a poker room and a

high-limit VIP area. Expected to create 3,000 permanent jobs, MGM Springfield will additionally include 15 shops, restaurants, a multi-level parking garage and an eightscreen cinema, bowling alley and outdoor stage. However, the whole project could be scuppered if voters pass a measure in November that repeals the eastern state’s controversial 2011 gaming and licensing law. As a precaution, MGM Resorts earlier agreed a deal that makes any licence award contingent on the eventual outcome of any such ballot. July 2014 casinoreview

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News World

Marina Wong 28

MACAO GAMING SHOW: “THE RESPONSE FROM THE INTERNATIONAL GAMING COMMUNITY HAS BEEN VERY POSITIVE. 2014 IS ON COURSE TO BE A BIGGER EVENT...”

NEW CONCESSION

Grand Casino Vienna to open in historic Austrian palace A joint venture group led by Stadtcasino Baden has obtained the concession for a new casino in Vienna, bringing the country’s 60-year monopoly to an end.

AUSTRIA

he Austrian Ministry of Finance has awarded one of the two new casino concessions in Vienna to Grand Casino Wien, an international joint venture led by Stadtcasino Baden Group, renowned operator of Grand Casino Baden and Casino Davos in Switzerland. Together with its German partner, Gauselmann Group, a high-class casino and entertainment project will be developed in the historical Palais Schwarzenberg, one of the most prominent baroque-style

buildings in the Austrian capital. The first-time granting of a casino concession to an international applicant marks the end of the 60-year-long casino monopoly in Austria. The second licence in Vienna was handed to Novomatic Group, which will transform its existing 400-machine gaming hall in the Prater district of Vienna into a state-of-theart flagship casino. The company will also develop a new venue in the nearby city of Bruck an der Leitha, Lower Austria (Supplier News, p32). “We are more than happy about this decision but at the same time fully aware

that it is associated with a large degree of responsibility,” said Detlef Brose, CEO of Stadtcasino Baden. “We are committed to create a casino of international appeal that Vienna merits.” According to Brose, the premium casino will compete with international renowned casino locations such as Monte Carlo. “We want to offer our guests unparalleled gaming and entertainment experience, combined with a successful mix of restaurants, bars and events,” he stated. “Beyond that, Grand Casino Vienna will also adopt a leading approach in responsible gaming, gained on our home market in

Switzerland for more than a decade.” Hubertus Thonhauser, chairman of the board of directors of the Grand Casino Vienna operating company, added: “The Grand Casino in Palais Schwarzenberg is more than just a casino. It is the engine for an urban development project connecting Vienna’s city centre and the new Central Station, in which a total of approximately E100m will be invested.” Grand Casino Vienna will offer 28 gaming tables as well as 290 slot machines with the historical baroquestyle ceremonial and representation rooms of the

Palais Schwarzenberg reserved exclusively for table games. Spacious bars, lounge and smoking areas as well as a multi-functional entertainment room will complete the offer. As part of the investment a central park next to Palais Schwarzenberg will be open to the general public and upgraded with F&B-services. Furthermore, in one wing of the Palais the Schwarzenberg family foundation, partner of Grand Casino Vienna, is planning a boutique hotel. In addition, an underground parking adjacent to the Palais with over 200 spaces will be built and operated by the Breit-

eneder Group, a leading Austria operator of parking lots. The construction work will be started immediately and executed in close coordination with the Federal Monuments Office. Renovation is expected to take at least 12 months. “This fast kick-off is possible because the planning and approval processes have been advanced already during the tenderprocess for the concession,” said Thonhauser. “The objective is to create a contemporary and modern interpretation of a classical casino, putting Vienna on the international map of casino destinations.”

TRADE BODIES

UK strengthens ties with Europe The UK’s association for the land-based casino industry, the National Casino Forum, has joined the European Casino Association. UNITED KINGDOM

uring last month’s general assembly of the European Casino Association (ECA) in Copenhagen, Denmark, all 23 European countries unanimously accepted the National Casino Forum’s application to join forces with Europe’s leading trade association for the European casino industry.

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Ron Goudsmit

Commenting on the partnership, Ron Goudsmit, chairman of the ECA, said: “We are delighted to extend our membership to the UK. Having the UK in the ECA is very important because of the size of the market and the strength of its industry.” “For some time now the ECA and NCF have been promoting equivalent agendas. This renewed membership, which was sealed during the general

assembly of the ECA in Copenhagen, will reinforce ECA’s main pledge to be the unified voice for Europe’s licensed casino industry.” NCF is active on both the political and regulatory levels in the UK. “Throughout the years, ECA and NCF have maintained positive relations and we are looking forward to these relations becoming even stronger, and joining forces to fulfil our common industry regulatory and policy endeavours together,” said Tracy Damestani, CEO of NCF. “ECA and NCF share the same aims of promoting a positive agenda for a healthy, well regulated, responsible and economically sustainable casino industry. Working together will strengthen our influence in Europe.”

The partnership between the ECA and NCF comes at an important time for the UK’s land-based casino industry. Despite the fact that the ECA’s 2014 European Casino Industry Report indicates that the UK market saw total revenues of £872m (E1.035bn) in 2012 – representing a 9.4 per cent jump on the previous year – both Goudsmit and Damestani agreed that the industry still faces numerous hurdles. “There are huge challenges facing the UK industry,” Damestani told International Casino Review. “I think that those figures, whilst somewhat encouraging, should not be taken out of context. There is a large amount of competition now coming from all angles within the gambling markets.”

IN BRIEF: NCF ince January 1, 2014, NCF became the sole representative trade association for the landbased casino industry in the UK. It represents over 98 per cent of the UK land-based casino market, with operators from not only the UK, but also from the US, Australia, Malaysia and Europe. In total, 147 casinos are operating in the UK providing direct employment to circa 15,000 people and indirect employment to a further 30,000.

YOUR WORLD OF INNOVATIONS NOVOMATIC Global Attractions 2014

NOVOMATIC ELECTRONIC TABLE GAMES – The Unique Combination UÊ1 µÕiÊ Õ Ì }> iÊV>«>L Ì iÃÊqÊi iVÌÀ VÊ ÛiÊ}> iÃÊ> `ÊÃ ÌÃÊ>Û> >L iÊ Ê iÊÃÞÃÌi UÊ- « ÃÌ V>Ìi`ÊÎ Ê> >Ìi`Ê}> iÊ >Þ ÕÌÃÊÊÊÊÊUÊ iÝ L iÊV>Ã ÊyÊ ÀÊ > >}i i Ì UÊ1 Ìi`Ê Õ LiÀÊ vÊÌiÀ > ÊV iVÌ ÃÊÊÊÊÊUÊ1 Ìi`Ê Õ LiÀÊ vÊÌÞ«iÃÊ vÊ}> iÃ UÊ" iÊÀi> Ì iÊ Ì À }ÊÊÊÊÊUÊ1ÃiÀ vÀ i ` ÞÊV wÊ}ÕÀ>Ì Ê> `Ê > Ìi > Vi UÊ ÕÌÕÀiÊ«À vÊÃiÀÛiÀ L>Ãi`Ê vÀ>ÃÌÀÕVÌÕÀiÊ

N O V O M AT I C

– W I N N I N G

T E C H N O L O G Y

International Sales: Jens Halle, Phone: +43 2252 606 234, sales@novomatic.com

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News Europe

Just a year off its scheduled opening, Genting’s Resorts World Birmingham has almost topped out. International Casino Review went to the see the construction site and met Genting UK’s Paul Willcock and Barry Clemo.

The gaming floor

The luxurious salon privé on the top floor

The Sky Bar will be available for exclusive private events

Resorts World Birmingham has a lakeside position within the NEC campus

NEW CASINO

Resorts World Birmingham ri UNITED KINGDOM

hen Genting’s Resorts World Birmingham opens in spring 2015 it will mark an entirely new approach to casino gaming in the UK. The third Large licence to open under the 2005 Gambling Act, its location on the National Exhibition Centre campus opposite the LG Arena will offer it some unique opportunities but also unique challenges. Unlike any other casino in the country, including the 2005 Act venues in Stratford and Milton Keynes, Resorts World Birmingham will probably not be able to rely solely on a locals market for its bread and butter business: the NEC is located in Solihull and a 20 minute drive from the edge of the city - however easily accessible by public and private transport. “There will be a locals market but it won’t drive the business,” said Paul Willcock, Genting UK’s managing director of home

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markets. “What will is the fact that the casino is at the centre of a complex that will pull people in from a wide area. It’s a new kind of leisure experience in this country. The outlet centre will be a major attraction and people will stay for the cinema, the spa, the great bars and restaurants and of course the casino.” He continued: “Our major advantage is that the venue is directly opposite the entrance of the LG Arena, so when the main event is done, there will be thousands of people streaming out in a good mood looking for ways to continue the party. And we’ll be right there. And of course there are thousands coming to the NEC every week for trade shows and conferences, staying in the hotels - staying in our hotel too.” The NEC currently attracts around 3m visitors per year, which is a good

start. It is currently owned by Birmingham City Council. The city authorities are now in discussions to sell it into private hands and the funds it generates will go some way to balancing Birmingham’s very lopsided books. The new owner is likely to invest substantially in the site in order to attract a lot more MICE business, which will mean even greater footfall. That can only be a good thing for Resorts World Birmingham. “Events is really the key word in our strategy,” said Willcock. “The complex will be a destination, visiting it an event in itself but we are also likely to be working with the LG Arena to bring, for example, Asian music stars who will attract huge crowds from all over the country. Our key performance indicators cover the complex as a whole, not just the casino, which is different from the

rest of our estate.” He added: “We are entirely conscious that we can’t just magic tens of thousands of new visitors to the venue - we will be inviting Genting customers from across the region and further afield to come and experience it, and also targeting users of other casinos in the region.” The marketing campaign for the entirety of the Resorts World Birmingham will be the responsibility of Barry Clemo, the former marketing director for Genting UK and now complex operations director, which means he is in charge of the build and will run the whole venue when it’s open. He said: “I’m incredibly proud and honoured to be working on this project: being both the landlord and an operator within in it, our new tenants know that we will be working hard to make their businesses as successful as ours. In addi-

tion to the casino, we will also be operating the fourstar boutique hotel and the spectacular bars, including the World Bar, featuring beers from around the globe, the chic Champagne Bar, a 360-degree Sports Bar with sports betting and of course the spectacular and very exclusive Sky Bar.” He continued: “This is the UK’s first in-resort casino and because we’re building it from scratch with the support and experience of the global Genting organisation we absolutely believe we are creating a leisure casino for the UK in the way it should be done and combining it with opportunities for high-end play that are unusual outside London.” The main floor of the casino will feature an initial 100 slot machines (rising to the maximum 150 in time) from a variety of manufacturers including IGT, Novomatic and Spielo

CR141-p06-08-Europe_Coinslot NEW 09/07/2014 11:56 Page 2

AUSTRIA / BELGIUM / MONACO / PORTUGAL / UNITED KINGDOM YXYXYXY Dutch tackle online issue 26

MARJA APPELMAN: “OPERATORS HAVE THE LEGAL RESPONSIBILITY TO MONITOR AND ANALYSE THE BEHAVIOUR OF THEIR CONSUMERS AND INTERVENE WITH HARMFUL GAMBLING BEHAVIOUR..”

m rises as well as a number of FOBTs from Inspired Gaming. Inspired’s Sabre 5 automated and electronic multi-gaming terminals will also be very much in evidence with more than 60 terminals in two separate blocs. TCSJohnHuxley will supply the live gaming tables, 28 in all on the main floor - 14 roulette and 14 blackjack and baccarat tables including some fliptops. Four tables will be located in a high-stakes gaming area off the main floor and four in a learn-toplay area that can also be used for specific events. The casino will also feature a UK first - an indoor-outdoor casino terrace designed to allow guests to smoke as they play. The sides will be made of angled glass panels that will protect guests and the equipment from the weather all while obeying the legal strictures on enclosures for

smoking areas. A poker room with 12 permanent tables will also be offered, with the ability to convert a bar area near the entrance into a tournament area housing at least another 20, as required. On the fifth floor of the building, the topmost level near the exclusive suites of the hotel, will be the Sky Bar and two salons privés plus another external smoking and gaming space equipped with ten gaming tables. “Resorts World Birmingham will be a real game changer for Genting UK and for the UK gaming industry,” said Clemo. “We are working with our partners in the worldwide Genting Rewards programme to bring in new members. Visitors will be able to tap into the programme at three levels: the Red card allows guests to collect points across the entire resort and spend them on almost everything bar gaming credits. The standard Black card is more for regular casino players, while the Platinum card brings unique offers and benefits for exclusive guests. We are also working on bringing it to our online players. The programme will fold our customers into the whole, exciting world of Genting.” Resorts World Birmingham has already created around 1,750 construction jobs and will offer another 1,150 full-time equivalent posts when it opens, including 276 in the casino itself. “I fully expect the next year to disappear in a flash as we prepare the building to open,” said Clemo. “We already have some anchor tenants in place Cineworld will operate the cinema, for example - and we have had a huge amount of interest in the retail and F&B units, for which there will be a lot of competition as we approach opening. But as much as I’m really enjoying the construction process, I’m looking forward even more to operating the resort. It will be a powerful demonstration of the commitment of Genting to this country and I can’t wait to show to it to our customers.”

EUROPE ROUND-UP

LEGISLATION

Portugal approves draft online gaming bill PORTUGAL

n Portugal, the cabinet of Prime Minister Pedro Passos Coelho has approved draft language that would legalise and regulate online gambling for the first time, while establishing a tax rate of between 15 and 20 per cent. According to Adolfo Mesquita Nunes (pictured), Secretary of State for Tourism, the government wants to institute an “open model” similar to that already present in Spain, France and Italy, which would allow foreign operators to obtain a licence so long as they “meet the requirements and are in good financial standing in their finances and social security”. The proposed legislation, which could be ratified before the end of the year if it is subsequently approved by

otal turnover from the Greek gambling market declined by some 37 per cent over the past five years to stand at $7.5bn (E5.4bn) for the whole of 2013, according to a report from the Gaming Oversight and Control Commission. The authority asserted that the nation’s lottery and casino operators as well as the state-run OPAP and ODIE monopolies should soon benefit from the effects of deregulation as well as new gaming machine IT control and oversights systems. Changes are also in the pipeline for gamblers in Poland after the Ministry of Finance published draft language that would amend the country’s Gambling Act and allow operators from outside the country to open and operate online betting sites. The legislation would see firms registered in the EU or EFTA permitted to compete

the EU Commission, would see taxation based on gross gaming revenues, with differing rates depending on activity and amounts as sportsbetting is expected to attract a 37.5 per cent rate of tax. A reform of Portugal’s laws covering online gaming was one of the conditions of a E78bn bailout from the European Union, which the nation satisfied last month, while any future proceeds would be split between central government and regional authorities to ‘encourage sport and for cultural development’. The draft bill would give the Ministry of Tourism licensing and enforcement responsibilities while that nation’s current regulator, Santa Casa da Misericordia de Lisboa (SCML), is to retain exclusive rights over social gaming.

LEGISLATION

Casino 36 hopes to win Wolverhampton licence UNITED KINGDOM

ollowing Wolverhampton Racecourse’s decision in April to cancel its plans to become the first ‘racino’ in the UK, rival operator Casino 36 is hoping to secure the ‘small’ gaming licence available in the city and open a venue featuring up to 80 slot machines. Casino 36 wants to expand its existing Rubicon Casino on Temple Street into a neighbouring building that formerly housed The Dorchester nightclub to create the region’s largest casino. If it is successful in obtaining the licence, Casino 36 stated that the new venue would offer live gaming tables featuring roulette, blackjack and three-card poker alongside 100 stand-alone terminals and a maximum of 80 slot machines with jackpots of up to £20,000 (E25,014). There would also be restaurants in addition to snooker, pool and darts facilities together with a sports bar screening live matches while the existing allweather roof could be transformed

into an open-air terrace. “This would be a massive expansion of what we already do there,” said Adrian Ballard from Casino 36. “This will really benefit the night-time economy of Wolverhampton. It will have a lot more than your average casino. This will be a premier landmark venue for Wolverhampton city centre within the Southside regeneration area. We estimate the total cost of the project to be £4m (E5m).” The new casino could create up to 133 new jobs while Casino 36 has already shown its commitment to the local community by handing £36,000 (E45,029) to Wolverhampton City Council despite no legal obligation for use in counselling programmes and community initiatives.

against the current four operators licensed to offer online gambling services so long as they open an office in Poland. A recent study from consultancy Roland Berger estimated that Poland misses out on around E142m in tax revenues each year from online wagering with the country’s licensed operators accounting for only nine percent of the current total spent. In the UK, the Hippodrome Casino in London’s Leicester Square has premiered a new gaming and entertainment venture themed around famed 1910s chorus girl and alleged illegal card game and drinking party organiser Lola McGuire. Lola’s Underground Casino combines entertainment and gambling by offering dancing girls on podiums amongst its traditional blackjack and roulette tables. The six-figure investment in the West End property’s lower ground floor also includes ‘gin palace’ bar together with a barber shop. July 2014 casinoreview

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News Europe

End of an IMA? 27

VDAI: “FURTHER DRASTIC LIMITATIONS ARE TO BE IMPOSED ... MANUFACTURERS FACE PRODUCTION SETBACKS OF PREVIOUSLY UNKNOWN PROPORTIONS.”

FINANCIALS

ANALYSIS

Despite reporting an increase in annual revenues, Monaco’s state-owned gaming, entertainment and hospitality group, SBM, is still operating at a loss. James Walker reports.

ooking beyond its bottom line performance figure, SBM is well positioned to swing its operations back to a profit in the near term. In addition to its five opulent casinos - with the jewel in the crown being the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo - SBM also owns the principal hotels, sports clubs, foodservice establishments and nightclubs throughout Monaco. And while many high-end European leisure groups have suffered amid the economic downturn, the double-digit revenue growth achieved by Monaco’s incumbent leisure conglomerate acts as a useful indicator that consumers are spending once again.

MONACO

SBM still struggling with operational woes ociété des bains de mer de Monaco (SBM) has reported an 11.4 per cent increase in annual revenues, as the group made gains in its gaming and hotel divisions. Owned by the Government of Monaco, SBM has five casinos in the principality, including Casino de Monte-Carlo, Casino Café de Paris and Monte-Carlo Bay Casino. It also operates dozens of hotels, restaurants, bars, night

clubs, spas and golf clubs. In the year ending March 31, 2014, revenues for SBM totalled E472.5m, up 11.4 per cent on the E424.1m reported in the previous year, bolstered in part by the group resuming operation of the Méridien Beach Plaza Hotel and the sale of 400,000 Wynn Resort shares. According to the company, which last year celebrated its 150th anniversary, turnover from

gambling activities were up 18 per cent in fiscal 2014, and turnover from hotel activities was up two per cent. Despite this, however, SBM recorded an operating loss of E11.8m, although this is less than the E32.7m deficit reported last year. “Even with improvement in consolidated turnover, the group’s operating result still shows a loss, though it has improved significantly as

compared to the previous year,” the group said. “The group’s various sectors of activity - gambling, hotels and rentals - have all contributed to this more favourable trend. “With revenue of E207.9m, the gambling sector shows a rise of 18 per cent in turnover. While activity for table games shows a rise of 43 per cent in revenue, activity for automatic machines saw a slight setback as compared

to the previous year.” SBM added: “The hotel sector has pursued the favourable trend established in the previous financial year, with turnover of E237.4m versus E222.2m in 2012/2013. The group benefited from year-round running of the Méridien Beach Plaza hotel in Monaco, giving a positive impact of E10.8m, and growth of two per cent in turnover on a constant perimeter basis.”

LICENCES

Novomatic granted pair of Austrian casino licences AUSTRIA

reaking the monopoly held by Casinos Austria, the Austrian Ministry of Finance has granted integrated global gaming firm Novomatic Group two casino operating licences, while a third has gone to Gauselmann in partnership with Casino Baden. While the new Gauselmann/Casino Baden casino is to be located in the

8 | casinoreview July 2014

Palais Schwarzenberg (see World News, p4), Gumpoldskirchenbased Novomatic will transform its existing 400-machine gaming hall in the Prater district of Vienna into a state-of-the-art flagship casino while additionally developing a new venue in the nearby city of Bruck an der Leitha, Lower Austria. Novomatic, which was founded in 1980 and operates some 30 casi- Berlin, employs over 20,000 staff nos throughout Europe including around the world including 3,000 in Germany’s largest, Spielbank Austria and stated that the Austrian

concessions will create hundreds of new jobs. “The allocation of these licences now allows us to prove our international casino competencies in our home market, Austria,” said Franz Wohlfahrt, CEO of Novomatic, which reported turnover in 2013 of over $4.7bn (E3.5bn). “Apart from that, it enables us to guarantee the sustained growth at the Novomatic headquarters in Gumpoldskirchen while creating jobs for 500 new employees.”

REGULATION

BGC calls for tougher gaming controls BELGIUM

he Belgian Gaming Commission (BGC) has published an open letter to lawmakers in the country calling for tighter restrictions on the gambling industry alongside the introduction of regulations for social gaming. Signed by Etienne Marique, president of the BGC, as well as director Peter Naessens and strategic advisor Marc Callu, the communication appealed to the nation’s next government to strengthen the existing regulatory framework and recognise growth in the Belgian gaming market by giving it additional resources. The BGC drew attention to the fact that 600,977 Belgian players used at least one online gaming

site in 2013, which is almost three times the number that frequented the nation’s land-based venues, with total turnover exceeding $20m (E15m). “New figures indicate that gambling appeals to an increasingly visible part of the population while the regulatory framework is not up to scratch,” read the letter. “The role of the regulator must be enforced in order to protect the credibility of the state and the sector must be restricted because exploitation of betting is not a normal economic activity.”

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CR141-p10-12-Asia_Coinslot NEW 09/07/2014 12:12 Page 1

News

Asia & Oceania Going up: Manila Bay Resorts. But can it stay up?

RESORT CASINO

Manila Bay Resorts still not legal says PAGCOR One of the major development projects in the Philippines Entertainment City complex remains non-compliant after failed attempts by Universal to find a suitable partner.

T PHILIPPINES

he chairman of the Philippines gambling regulator and state-owned operator PAGCOR, Cristiano Naguiat, has said that Manila Bay Resorts, currently under construction after numerous delays, is still in breach of ownership laws that mean it cannot start operations. The project has been beset by legal issues from the start, especially over the requirement that the 44 hectares of land on which it stands within PAGCOR’s Entertainment City development should be owned at least 60 per cent by Filippinos. Japanese developer Universal Entertainment led by the controversial businessman Kazuo Okada has been through two potential partners since it was uncovered that the original land-holding company was

10 | casinoreview July 2014

majority-owned by Universal through various subsidiaries. Naguiat said: “Even if they finish [the resort], they still cannot open it if they do not have a local partner. Before opening they should abide by all Philippine laws.” A deal with Robinsons Land Corp fell apart in May 2013. A new agreement with Century Properties Group put together in November has also now failed. Talks with new potential partners are understood to be underway. There is a significant amount of money at stake: the integrated hotel and casino resort is set to cost US$2bn and is due to open in towards the end of 2016. Further phases would bump up the investment around US$5.75bn.

Manila Bay Resort would create thousands of jobs for locals, possibly as many as 15,000, with many already having experience in hotel and catering often overseas. Even if it can find a partner, Universal and its local subsidiary Tiger Resort and Leisure Entertainment still face significant challenges, not least the prospect that the gaming licence might yet be revoked. Universal and Okada are undergoing two separate criminal investigations, one by the FBI in the United States, the other by Philippines authorities, into allegations of bribery, specifically suspect payments alleged to have been made by a Universal shell company in Hong Kong to a close associate of the former head PAGCOR. Along with other allegations, that was enough to have Okada, formerly the

largest investor in Wynn Resorts, expelled from that company’s board and his shares compulsorily purchased at a discount, losing him millions. Wynn was already upset at Okada’s Manila project, believing it to be a direct competitor to its expanding interests in Macau. Manila Bay Resorts is a hugely important flagship property for Universal - its first foray into large-scale casino resort development and operation. While the prospects for international standard casino resorts are good in the Philippines, in terms of the size of the potential market, for Universal it would give them a first foundation from which to launch its undoubted bid for a casino resort in its home country of Japan. Legislation there is expected to pass early in the autumn.

ANALYSIS inding the right deal that will complement and support the huge investment that Universal is making into the Philippines is proving difficult. The Japanese firm, although assertive, finds itself in an increasingly weak position with completion dates receding, costs rising and threats to its operating licence mounting. The pool of local people and firms with the necessary funds is also relatively small, which adds to the pressure. Sooner or later, Universal will have to make a deal with someone and it will have to stick, even if it also sticks in the throat.

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AUSTRALIA / INDIA / MACAU / NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS / PHILIPPINES YXYXYXY Macao Gaming Show 46

MACAO GAMING SHOW: “MGS PROVIDES A COMPREHENSIVE WINDOW ON THE ENTIRE GAMING INDUSTRY, IT IS ALSO THE ONLY SHOW THAT IS TRULY REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ASIAN GAMING INDUSTRY....”

CASINO LICENCE

ASIA ROUND-UP

REVENUES

Saipan casino plans delayed pending lawsuit

NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS

lans to develop a new casino in the Northern Mariana Islands have been delayed after the US island territory’s Superior Court extended an order stopping the government from either denying or approving a licence. As previously reported by International Casino Review, March saw Governor Eloy Inos sign the Saipan Casino Bill into law in a bid to attract more tourists and raise additional tax revenues despite direct opposition from the Saipan Chamber of Commerce over an alleged lack of transparency. The legislation granted one operator selected following a competitive bidding process an exclusive casino licence covering the whole of the nation. However, one of the finalists in the process, Mariana Stars Entertainment, in which Hong Kong firm Mega Stars Overseas holds a 25 per cent stake, requested and received a temporary restraining

rown Resorts has settled a lawsuit regarding its failed A$2.9bn (E2.1bn) takeover of the Fontainebleau Las Vegas, which fell through in 2008 following the global financial crisis. In a short statement, the Melbourne-based hotel and casino operator revealed that the action brought by a group of lenders in Nevada District Court had been settled out of court with the connected court case dropped. “As a result of the settlement, the lawsuit has been dismissed against the Crown defendants including James Packer (pictured),” read the statement from Crown Resorts. In Cambodia, the Roxy Casino in Bavet City has re-opened after the once derelict property was purchased in March by Aus-

Revenue growth slows in Macau affected, as did Galaxy Entertainment, SJM Holdings and Sands China, with May’s figure representing the slowest growth since Febome of the world’s largest casino oper- ruary and considerably lower than April’s ators including Las Vegas Sands Cor- 10.6 per cent. poration and MGM Resorts Increased government regulation is one International have seen their shares take a reason for the slowed growth with governhit after May gross gaming revenues in ment officials also seizing UnionPay cards Macau fell short of analysts’ expectations. early in the month after these were susAccording to data from the Gaming pected of being illegally used to siphon bilInspection and Coordination Bureau, gross lions of dollars away from mainland China to gaming revenues in the former Portuguese Macau. enclave increased 9.3 per cent year-on-year Another concern is the impending casino for the month to reach $4.1bn (E3bn), smoking ban, which is scheduled to be implewhich was well below the expected 13 to 15 mented from October 6. After this date, gamper cent. blers will be required to move to designated Wynn Resorts and Melco Crown Enter- areas for smoke breaks, which could lead to tainment Limited also saw their share prices fewer or slower games and less revenues. MACAU

ILLEGAL GAMBLING

Macau crackdown on illegal World Cup betting order last month pending the resolution of a lawsuit it is bringing against fellow bidder Best Sunshine International, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Macaubased junket investor First Natural Foods. Each firm had paid a $1m (E720,000) non-refundable application fee before individually depositing $30m (E21.5m) in escrow to have their rival bids for the island of Saipan considered by authorities. But, Mariana Stars is suing Best Sunshine over claims it ‘illegally’ provided benefits to at least four local lawmakers in exchange for support. The initial temporary restraining order was due to expire on June 29 but Associate Judge David Wiseman extended the arrangement indefinitely pending the resolution of the action brought by Mariana Stars, which is set to be heard from July 1.

MACAU

s part of a cross-border campaign to crack down on illegal betting, police in Macau raided an unauthorised operation last month that had allegedly taken $645m (E473.7m) in wagers on the 2014 FIFA World Cup football tournament. Believed to be the biggest operation of its kind in Macau, the raid saw 22 people from mainland China, Hong Kong and Malaysia arrested with authorities also seizing $248,000 (E182,000) in cash along with 17 computers, ten mobile phones and betting slips. The ring purportedly used three hotel rooms to take online and telephone wagers from around the world with one gambler said to have placed a bet worth $5m (E3.6m).

Hours later in the same hotel, authorities conducted a similar exercise on a second illegal operation, this one alleged to have taken $645,000 (E474,000) in illegal World Cup bets in only one day. Four Chinese men were arrested as a result of this action while police have refused to release the name of the hotel. According to a recent study from the International Center for Sport Security and Paris Sorbonne University, over half of the world’s illegal sports bets are placed in Asia. Hong Kong police alone arrested 39 suspects over illicit gambling during the first week of the World Cup, seizing betting slips worth around $10m (E7.3m).

tralian firm Cell Aquaculture. Located 200 metres from the border with Vietnam and only 87km from Ho Chi Minh City and its 8.1m inhabitants, the perpetually-licensed Roxy Casino features a 20-room hotel, a 50-seat restaurant and administration offices alongside a gaming floor offering up to 25 tables in addition to slots and a sportsbook. Similarly, the Primorsky Krai area outside of the Russian city of Vladivostok could soon be home to two new casinos after Macau’s Lawrence Ho and Cambodian casino operator NagaCorp each signed up to develop venues. The new resort casinos in the far east of the giant nation would target the over 21m residents of Beijing along with those in China’s three northeast provinces and punters from South Korea and Japan. July 2014 casinoreview

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News

Asia & Oceania

Dreamworld sale 37

CHANGING HANDS: ENTERTAINMENT GAMING ASIA HAS AGREED TO SELL ITS STRUGGLING DREAMWORLD PAILIN REGIONAL CASINO IN CAMBODIA TO LOCAL ENTREPRENEUR BAN KEA FOR $500,000 (E366,000)

CASINO LICENCE

Echo confirms Brisbane pairing with Asian firms Operator Echo Entertainment has joined forces with Chow Tai Fook and Far East Consortium in its battle against rival Brisbane casino bidder Crown Resorts.

May but will now join forces with Echo Entertainment in agreeing to contribute 25 per cent of any development costs in exchange for a share of the development. Far East Consortium has also pledged to carry a quarter of any such outlays as the trio go up against Crown Resorts, which is controlled by one of Australia’s richest businessmen, James Packer, and recently signed a similar partnership deal with China’s Greenland Holdings Group. “Echo Entertainment is delighted to work in partnership with two significant Asian based partners and the government to develop and submit a compelling proposal for the Queen’s Wharf Brisbane site, which will deliver major investment in tourism

infrastructure including a worldclass integrated resort to Brisbane,” said Matt Bekier, CEO of Brisbanebased Echo Entertainment. The Brisbane casino development is part of a state stimulus package announced by premier Campbell Newman in October. The eventual winner will be required to include a “landmark hotel that will help put Queensland on the map”. As Australia’s third largest city, Brisbane is popular with tourists due to its warm climate and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. The city of 2.24m is hoping to emulate the success seen by Singapore after it built two casino resorts in 2010 with these properties, run by Genting Singapore and Las Vegas Sands Corpo-

ration, helping to boost subsequent visitor spending. The new Brisbane venue, which will be only a short walk from the 123year-old Treasury Casino and Hotel operated by Echo Entertainment, is to be joined by the A$8.15bn (E5.63bn) Aquis Great Barrier Reef Resort casino resort project just north of Cairns alongside a similar A$7.5bn (E5.18bn) development from Eastern Success Group and ASF Consortium at Broadwater on the Gold Coast. The two teams of bidders for the Brisbane licence must now submit fully developed proposals before the end of the year with the eventual winner expected to be announced early in 2015.

STAKES & PRIZES

New stake limits proposed for Victoria ‘pokies’ AUSTRALIA

ew legislation has been proposed by The Greens in the Victorian parliament that would set a maximum stake of A$1 (E0.69) per spin for the Australian state’s 30,000 poker machines. Despite industry claims that the machines are solely for fun and entertainment, they accounted for 54

per cent of the nation’s total annual gambling revenues of A$20.5bn (E14.1bn) last year, while recent studies have found that they could do harm to up to 30 per cent of users. “Problem gamblers can lose thousands of dollars an hour on pokies; the average in Victoria is $840 per hour,” read a statement from the Victorian Greens. “A $1 bet limit would limit losses to $120 per hour and make a huge difference to

12 | casinoreview July 2014

Goa Congress Party aims to sink casino boats INDIA

AUSTRALIA

s it looks to strengthen its case to develop a second casino in Brisbane, Queensland, Echo Entertainment Group has teamed up with former rival Chow Tai Fook Enterprises and property developer Far East Consortium International. Last month saw Echo Entertainment named alongside Crown Resorts as one of two preferred bidders for a new casino licence in the Queensland capital, which is to serve as the centrepiece of a A$1bn (E691.3m) redevelopment of the central Queen’s Wharf area. The project is to sit alongside mixed-use areas containing six-star hotels, convention facilities, retail, restaurant and entertainment zones in addition to open spaces. Despite making it to a shortlist of 12 on its own, Hong Kong-based Chow Tai Fook, which is the world’s largest listed jeweller, lost out in late-

OFFSHORE CASINOS

families suffering from the detrimental impacts of problem gambling.” The current A$5 (E3.45) maximum stake was

brought in between 2008 and 2010, while more recent attempts to introduce a pre-commitment system met with heavy resistance before being defeated. A new study from market research firm Roy Morgan Research found the machines accounted for 60 per cent of the A$16.3bn (E11.2bn) spent by Australians on gambling in the 12 months to March. By contrast, the same

period saw A$2.5bn (E1.7bn) spent on race betting with lotteries taking in A$1.7bn (E1.1bn). For the remaining 15 percent of the market, sportsbetting accounted for five percent or A$900m (E621.6m) while casino table games made up four percent at A$600m (E414.3m). Other popular forms of gambling included keno, which took in A$500m (E345.1m), and scratch tickets with A$300m (E207m).

he opposition Congress Party in Goa has demanded that the offshore casinos licensed by state be banned after blaming them for high levels of river pollution. The water in River Mandovi was recently deemed unfit for bathing, fishing or water sports by the Goa State Pollution Control Board due to high levels of bacteria. Congress spokesman Ulhas Parab said: “[This] is going to be an environmental hazard for affect-

ing the people living around this waterbody. The offshore casino vessels are obvious reasons for this pollution. We demand an immediate ban on these vessels.” According to Parab, bacteria levels are 65 per cent higher than permitted and will hit those who depend on fishing hardest. He added: “How can the pollution control board give a clean chit to offshore casinos when the reason for the high level of bacteria is the release of sewage. There is no source of sewage here other than offshore casinos.” The National Green Tribunal is currently hearing a case against offshore casinos.

Get your hands on prime real estate in Macao 6ENETIAN -ACAO s .OVEMBER

For stand options and sponsorship opportunities at Novemberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Macao Gaming Show contact John Sullivan at MGS@gbmedia.eu or call +44 (0) 1204 396 397

Looking beyond the Horizon at Macao Gaming Summit

sian Gaming: Looking beyond the Horizon is the theme of this year’s Macao Gaming Summit, a two day gathering of commercial, academic and political influencers which is taking place as part of Novembers’ Macao Gaming Show (MGS). Targeted at decision makers and industry professionals from all sectors of the off line/on line gaming industry, Macao Gaming Summit (18th – 20th November) will also cater for leading figures drawn from government and regulatory bodies, the banking, investment, legal and consulting sectors as well as research and education. The Summit will include keynote sessions on the regulatory environment in Asia-Pacific, the future of gaming in Macao and beyond, opportunities in Asia-Pacific comprising industry updates on mature, emerging and future markets as well as best practices required in the region. The sessions dedicated to iGaming will focus on the latest developments, challenges,

solutions and key opportunities as they impact consumers in Asia. Marina Wong, General Manager and Event Director for MGS, said: “We know from our research undertaken after the ﬁrst Macao event in 2013 how important the Summit was to visitors and the role that it plays complementing MGS. We have been working very closely with gaming leaders in Asia to create a comprehensive, integrated programme to equip visitors with in-depth knowledge and understanding of the key gaming issues that will be impacting the region both now and in the future. The Macao Gaming Summit is aimed at key decision makers and delivered by authorities in their respective ﬁelds. It is not to be missed by anyone who wants to learn more about the key gaming issues in Asia.” The cost of tickets are HKD 3,800/delegate and HKD 2,800 for a one day pass. Discounts of 10% are being offered for bookings of three delegates or more. An Early Bird discount of 15% runs through to 30th September.

Come to MGS and be ﬁrst to the market

he Macao Gaming Show is proud to have registered a series of firsts which reflect its status as Asia’s premier gaming exhibition. As well as being the first (and only) gaming exhibition staged in Asia to be organised by leading organisations ac-

tive in Macao, it was also the first gaming show to feature Macao’s top five junket operators. Another first, which remains unique to MGS, is the Slot Experience Center, a show feature which enables visitors to ‘test drive’ slots and provide invaluable feedback

For more information on MGS 2014, download our show brochure at www.macaogamingshow.com

on the latest games and how they perform. But perhaps most importantly is the cultural insight that attending MGS can deliver. It is the ﬁrst choice event to understand how and why Asia is so different from every other gaming jurisdiction in the world. So if

you want to be amongst the ﬁrst to get a proper understanding of the market, how to do business here and the opportunities that it has to offer, register for the only gaming show which can really live the slogan ‘By Asia For The World.’

MGEMA Chairman invites the world to experience Macau

ay Chun Chairman, Macau Gaming Equipment Manufacturers Association, has issued an open invitation to the gaming world to attend November’s Macau Gaming Show. Mr Chun said: “It will be a great honor to welcome so many visitors to Macao for the second annual Macao Gaming Show. MGS is the only show that is truly representative of the Asian gaming industry, and following last year’s highly successful exhibition, we have continued to develop and build our offering with the aim of consolidating our position as Asia’s number one gaming show. Needless to say, MGS is a success story that would not be possible without the contribution of our visitors and exhibitors alike, and I look forward to welcoming the international gaming community to the world’s most signiﬁcant gaming market. To follow an up-to-date stream of our latest news and announcements, please follow @MGS_HQ”

By Asia

for the world

MGS is back and even better! Now’s the time to book your attendance at MGS 2014 18th – 20th November. MGS is the only show that is truly representative of the Asian gaming industry. And the only event to earn the title ‘by Asia, for the World’.

Come and see the entire gaming industry Gaming Equipment & Accessories. Gaming Promoters & VIP Clubs. Casino Fixtures & Fittings. Promotional Services & Memorabilia. Food & Beverage. Entertainment & Performance.

MGS means business

Big names conﬁrmed with 95% of exhibitors returning

xhibitors conﬁrmed for the second MGS include many of the biggest and most inﬂuential organisations active in the international gaming community. The heavyweight international gaming companies, include IGT Asia Macau, Aristocrat (Macau), Aruze Gaming Macau, Ainsworth Game Technology, TCS JOHNHUXLEY, LT Game, BMM Testlabs, Astro Corp, Future Logic, Angle Playing Cards, Inspired Gaming Group, JCM Global, Matsui Asia, and MEI Group. 95%

of last year’s exhibitors have re-booked with companies new to MGS being offered stand options for 2014. MGS is on course to beat last year’s debut event which consisted of close to 8,000 visitors and 102 exhibitors covering sectors comprising gaming equipment and accessories, gaming promoters and VIP clubs, casino ﬁxtures and ﬁttings, promotional services and memorabilia, food and beverage and entertainment and performance.

Exhibiting at MGS makes fantastic business sense. Reach out to casinos, integrated resorts, regulators and gaming afﬁliated businesses. 83% of MGS visitors are either decision makers or have direct input to purchasing decisions. An overwhelming majority (95%) said they would be returning to MGS in 2014.

Feature rich Visit the highly acclaimed Slot Experience Center. Gain invaluable knowledge at the Macao Gaming Summit. Promote your brands on MGSTV.

The best networking in Asia Invaluable business networking opportunities. Get to know potential business partners in a relaxed and casual atmosphere.

And we will even help pay your way!

Venetian Macao 18-20 November 2014

The Macao SAR Government is once again offering attractive subsidies to qualiﬁed buyers from air fares to hotel accommodation, making MGS the key annual meeting hub for casino procurement teams.

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News

Africa & Middle East DIVERSIFICATION

Grand Parade turns casino stakes into burgers

G A company long associated with investment in casino operations in South Africa, Grand Parade Investments, has cashed in its shares and turned to the lucrative fast food business.

SOUTH AFRICA

rand Parade Investments, a minority partner in major casino operations in South Africa has sold almost all its gaming interests in order to move into businesses where it has control, including Burger King restaurants now rolling out across the country. GPI used to own 25.1 per cent of SunWest, which operates GrandWest Casino in Cape Town, and a similar state in Worcester Casino, which runs the Golden Valley Casino also in the Western Cape. In a complicated arrangement, the GPI stakes were sold to Tsogo Sun and Sun International, with the latter also acquiring GPI’s 24.9 per cent share of Dolcoast, which indirectly owns a 5.6 per cent stake in Sibaya Casino. The combined deals have netted GPI cash of R1.68bn (almost E115m), almost doubling the company’s net asset value. It has also agreed to sell 70 per cent of its wholly owned GPI Slots company to Sun International in three stages depending on GPI Slots’ results in 2014, 2015 and 2016. The first tranche of 25.1 per cent was sold at the end of June for R276.6m (E18.9m) plus R20m (E1.4m) for the cancellation of a management contract. Grand Parade’s chairman Hassen Adams said each of the transactions was a significant opportunity to generate cash for reinvestment into both existing operation and new opportunities that would enable the company

16 | casinoreview July 2014

to accelerate its growth strategy. He said: “This deal in its totality signifies the coming of age of GPI. It has always been our dream to play a greater part in the South African economy but not at the expense of window dressing or playing second fiddle. As a BBBEEE company our vision has been to control our own destiny and in doing so taking out large community-based shareholders along on the journey. It is incumbent on us as one of the pioneers of BBBEEE to leave a legacy which we hope to do in the enabling environment created by these deals.” GPI has now exited from Western Cape casino market entirely, leaving Tsogo Sun with a 40 per cent share in each of SunWest and Worcester Casino. “GPI has been invested in SunWest and Worcester Casino for 16 years as Sun International’s initial BEE partner,” Adams added. “We would like to thank Sun for affording us this opportunity and for mentoring us over this time. We believe that the timing and terms of the transaction fully support GPI’s strategy to pur-

sue new high growth investment opportunities. Importantly, Sun International and Tsogo have the necessary financial capability, requisite BEE credentials, regulatory and industry knowledge to implement the transaction at a valuation that meets GPI’s expectations.” One of those high growth opportunities comes in the form of the Master Franchise for South Africa of Burger King, which since it opened its first restaurant just over a year ago has proven a massive hit in the country, with customers and potential franchise operators queuing round the block. Adams is building a halal-compliant meat factory in South Africa that will allow it to sell into Muslim countries across Africa and the Middle East. GPI will retain its foothold in gaming through its 30 per cent stake in GPI Slots and intends to continue developing its gaming machine manufacturing business through its Grand Merkur subsidiary, with which it has ambitions to be the leading supplier of machines to the gaming industry in South Africa.

ANALYSIS rand Parade is an investment company, and while it has been a key stakeholder in the development of casino operations in South Africa it has been at the (largely benign) mercy of the controlling shareholders. The investments it has made in the industry have been fruitful and the company has turned a handsome profit on its stake, not to mention the dividends it has received over the years. The company’s joint venture with Merkur has started the production of slot machines, the first to be made in South Africa. Although competition in gaming machines is fierce, the ability to make and sell slots at a price that the industry in the country can readily afford, along with the backing of the powerful Gauselmann Group, will give it a number of advantages over imports.

CR141-p16-17-Africa_Coinslot NEW 09/07/2014 13:33 Page 2

ISRAEL / SOUTH AFRICA YXYXYXY Grand gesture

HASSEN ADAMS: “THIS DEAL IN ITS TOTALITY SIGNIFIES THE COMING OF AGE OF GPI. IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN OUR DREAM TO PLAY A GREATER PART IN THE SOUTH AFRICAN ECONOMY.”

ACQUISITION

Bally to purchase Israeli social gaming firm Bally Technologies has signed a deal that could see it spend up to $100m (E73m) in order to take full control of Tel Aviv-based Dragonplay. ISRAEL

S gaming machine developer and manufacturer Bally Technologies entered into a definitive agreement that will see it spend $51m (E37.4m) to acquire online social casino firm Dragonplay. Established in 2010 and headquartered in Tel Aviv, Israel, Dragonplay is one of the world’s top 10 social casino game developers with approximately 700,000 daily active users. Its Live Hold’Em Pro is the topgrossing game in the ‘card’ category on Google Play, while the Dragonplay Slots title is a top 10 performer in the digital distribution platform’s ‘casino’ classification in terms of active users. “With over three years of topping various performance charts on Google Play, Dragonplay has successfully and consistently demonstrated its ability to acquire, monetise and retain

social gamers by creating compelling games with staying power in the social casino space,” said Richard Haddrill, CEO of Las Vegas-based Bally Technologies. “We expect this strategic acquisition to help position Bally Technologies at the forefront of social casino gaming by leveraging our world-class content including proprietary table games and award-winning video slots on Dragonplay’s increasingly popular social casino. “Additionally, with the majority of its revenues generated from smartphones and tablets, Dragonplay has proven remarkable foresight and leadership in the mobile space, which is the fastest

growing segment of social gaming.” The deal could also see Bally Technologies pay out around $49m (E35.9m) in additional earn-out considerations and employee retention payments over the next 18 months subject to Dragonplay meeting previously agreed financial performance targets. “Dragonplay and Bally Technologies share complementary cultures focused on innovation and user experience,” said Sharon Tal, CEO for Dragonplay. “Both companies are committed to providing unique and stimulating content to players across the globe that enjoy playing entertaining casino-style games. I am confident that leveraging Bally Technologies’ vast library of proven slot and proprietary table games content will provide our loyal player base with an even more robust experience, which is expected to augment Dragonplay’s growth trajectory.”

MANAGEMENT

Mabuza joins Tsogo Sun board SOUTH AFRICA

GPI chairman Hassen Adams

outh Africa’s largest hotel and casino operator, Tsogo Sun Holdings, has appointed asset management and private equity fundraising specialist Busisiwe Mabuza to its board of directors.

Already a non-executive director for a number of companies including Airports Company South Africa, Central Energy Fund, Development Bank of Southern Africa, Industrial Development Corporation and Nehawu Investment Holdings, Mabuza has expertise in investor relations, industry research, investment analysis and portfolio management. Tsogo Sun runs over 90 luxury properties in seven African nations including Nigeria and the Seychelles. Mabuza will serve as an independent nonexecutive director and as a member of its audit and risk committee. In order to provide it with “an

interest in quality casino assets in an area” where it currently has limited exposure, May saw the Johannesburglisted firm spend $202.94m (E148.95m) to acquire 40 per cent equity interests in hotelier SunWest International Proprietary and leisure firm Worcester Casino Proprietary. SunWest operates the GrandWest Casino And Entertainment World at Goodwood in Cape Town, while also owning the city’s Table Bay Hotel and a 24.8 per cent stake in the Cape Town International Convention Centre. For its part, Worcester Golden runs the Valley Casino at Breede River Valley in Worcester some 110 km northeast of Cape Town.

AFRICA ROUND-UP s its senior team lined up to compete in the 2014 FIFA World Cup, it was announced that the Ghanaian Football Association was under investigation after one of its members was filmed allegedly offering to rig international friendly games. A sting conducted by the UK’s Channel 4’s Dispatches programme and The Daily Telegraph newspaper purportedly found Obed Nketiah (pictured), who sits on the management committee of the Ghanaian Under-20 team and is CEO of premier side Berekum Chelsea FC, partnering with registered FIFA agent Christopher Forsythe in offering to ‘grease the palms’ of officials so that a clause would be included into any contract

allowing them to select friendly officials. For $170,000 (E125,000), the pair claimed that these referees could then be convinced to influence the outcome of any game involving the Ghana Under20 side before kickoff. In response, the Ghanaian FA issued a statement claiming that the pair had approached its president, Kwesi Nyantakyi, with a proposal to buy the rights to the side’s friendlies while it claimed to have reported the duo to police “for misrepresenting the Ghanaian FA with an attempt to defraud”. Further south, continent-wide hotel and resort casino operator Sun International has unveiled a new international marketing campaign that will see three of its five-star properties promoted under the single Sunlex Collection banner. The trio of venues encompass The Table Bay in Cape Town alongside Sun City’s The Palace Of The Lost City and the Royal Livingstone adjacent to Victoria Falls in Zambia. The group is to be marketed as Africa’s ‘Golden Triangle’ offering visitors unique experiences at must-see world-renowned scenic wonders across sub-Saharan Africa. Elsewhere, the Garden Route Casino in the South African harbour town of Mossel Bay has taken the unique step of launching its own radio station. Garden Route Radio will broadcast daily throughout the area featuring presenters and music ‘geared to the spirit and tastes of the local community’. Deejays will interact with casino guests while keeping listeners informed about upcoming events and promotions. July 2014 casinoreview

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News

North America

Borgata’s high rolls blackjack room

TAXATION

Borgata in line for $88m refund Borgata, the Atlantic City casino owned by Boyd Gaming and MGM Resorts, has reached a multi-million dollar tax settlement with the authorities.

A UNITED STATES

merican hotel and casino operator Boyd Gaming Corporation has settled a longrunning tax dispute with authorities in Atlantic City, and is now set to receive a one-time cash refund worth $88.25m (E64.87m). Boyd Gaming owns a controlling stake in the seaside resort’s Borgata Hotel, Casino and Spa through its Marina District Development Company joint venture with MGM Resorts International, and had long argued that the $58m (E42.63m) venue was required to pay each year in property taxes was too high. In an effort to limit the amount of cash casinos

18 | casinoreview July 2014

could possibly claw back through litigation, new Atlantic City mayor Don Guardian has agreed to the refund for the years 2011 to 2014 while additionally signing off on credits that could be worth an estimated $17.85m (E13.12m) and consenting to a defined property tax assessment for certain Borgata properties for the 2015 tax year. “We are pleased to bring closure to this matter and believe this negotiated settlement sends a strong message that Atlantic City is serious about creating a pro-business climate that encourages growth and investment while at the

same time protecting our residents,” said Guardian. In exchange, the Borgata has surrendered any rights to further contest the property tax assessments for 2011 to 2015 subject to certain conditions, although the deal does not cover the 2009 to 2010 tax years, which have also been the subject of dispute. October saw a New Jersey tax court rule that the city’s valuation for the Borgata at $2.3bn (E1.69bn) was almost three times higher than a fair figure of $880m (E646.83m) for 2009 and $870m (E639.48m) in 2010. As a result, the court found that the Borgata was due a

refund of $48m (E35.28m) with the issue ongoing. Since taking office as Atlantic City’s first Republican mayor in over 20 years in January, Guardian has made the settlement of casino tax appeals a priority and has so far handed back $270m (E198.48m) using mostly borrowed money. However, the former Boy Scouts of America executive could find it hard to continue granting refunds as the Borgata, which is the largest and top-grossing of the city’s eleven casinos, contributed over 20 percent of the municipality’s total budget of $249m (E183.03m) in 2013 while its

credit for this year alone amounts to approximately seven percent. “When I took office in January, this administration was faced with an exceptionally challenging financial situation that required quick action and difficult choices,” said Guardian. “By reaching this agreement with the city’s largest taxpayer, we have eliminated significant uncertainty regarding future budgets. We see this as another positive step toward stabilising our tax base. In addition, this provides our city with much-needed flexibility and will save considerable legal fees and borrowing costs.”

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YXYXYXY CANADA / UNITED STATES Caesar march on New York 36

GARY LOVEMAN: “WE HAVE A TREMENDOUS OPPORTUNITY TO BRING THE CAESARS BRAND TO NEW YORK STATE AND CREATE A WORLD-CLASS ENTERTAINMENT FACILITY...” PUBLIC OPINION

Voters view casino gaming more favourably UNITED STATES

S voters across the political spectrum view casino gaming more favourably than ever before, according to a new nationwide poll conducted by political pollsters Mark Mellman and Glen Bolger. The timely findings come as many state policymakers begin to re-examine gaming taxes, inefficient regulations and other threats to casinos in an increasingly competitive environment. The national telephone survey found that, by a 2-1 margin, US voters view casino gaming favourably. In addition, more than 70 per cent of voters recognised that casinos created jobs, and nearly 60 per cent of voters said they knew that casinos boost local economies. The results also come as the American Gaming Association (AGA) reports the latest gross gaming revenue numbers in Nevada, which increased from $10.9bn (E8bn) in 2012 to $11.1bn (E8.2bn) last year. In Reno, revenues grew from $727m (E537m) in 2012 to $753m (E556m) in 2013. “Voters recognise what Nevadans already know: that casinos are a mainstream form of entertainment and an eco-

‘The rest of the nation affirms what Nevada already knows’

nomic driver that supports jobs and boosts growth in communities across the nation,” said Geoff Freeman, president and CEO of the AGA. “Casino visitors are a portrait of the American electorate, voters are giving policymakers permission to treat casinos like any other business. The AGA will aggressively pave the way for policies that reflect voters’ favourable view of gaming, pro-

tects jobs and promotes innovation.” Mellman added: “Across partisan, ideological and geographic divisions, the vast majority agree that gaming is acceptable. Voters overwhelmingly believe casinos have a positive effect on local communities. Nearly two-thirds of casino visitors leave the property to patronise neighbouring local small businesses and other attractions.”

US ROUND-UP he 30 non-aboriginal casinos in the southern state of Mississippi saw their total revenues for May decrease by 10.6 per cent year-on-year to $172m (E126.3m), while the 21 venues in nearby Louisiana reported a drop of one-tenth of one per cent to $202.5m (E148.7m) for the month. The dozen coastal casinos in Mississippi, which include the Isle of Capri Casino Biloxi and the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino (pictured), won $84.3m (E61.9m) in May with their 18 river counterparts taking in $87.5m (E64.2m). This represented a decline of 10 and 11 per cent respectively and is the 21st month out of the previous 23 that the venues have won less money from gamblers when compared to the same period in the previous year. However, the picture is much different in the northern state of Pennsylvania where revenues for May increased by 2.3 per cent year-on-year to reach $64.2m (E47.1m) helped by strong gains at the Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem.

OPERATIONAL MANAGEMENT

Great Canadian Gaming extends Nova Scotia contract CANADA

fter running the only two casinos in the Canadian province of Nova Scotia since 2005, Great Canadian Gaming Corporation has exercised a 10year renewal option with the Nova Scotia Provincial Lotteries and Casino Corporation. As part of the deal, which represents the third time Great Canadian Gaming has renewed its agreement with provincial authorities, the operator has committed to investing a minimum of $9.3m (E6.85m) in the Halifax and Sydney venues by the end of next year.

“We wish to thank the Nova Scotia Provincial Lotteries and Casino Corporation and its board of directors for their continued confidence in Great Canadian Gaming as the operator for the two casinos in Nova Scotia,” said Rod Baker, president and CEO of Great Canadian Gaming, which is based in the Vancouver suburb of Richmond. “We are excited to continue our relationship with the Nova Scotia Provincial Lotteries and Casino Corporation and look forward to making exciting changes to the properties that will enhance our guests’ entertainment experiences while meeting both the social and

financial objectives of the government of Nova Scotia.” Great Canadian Gaming additionally operates 15 venues in Ontario, British Columbia and the American state

of Washington while the Nova Scotia casinos offer dining, showrooms, meeting facilities as well as a selection of casino table games and slots.

According to official figures from the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, the state had an average of 1,091 gaming tables open every day in May and generated tax revenues for the month of just over $9.2m (E6.7m). Elsewhere, the United States Supreme Court has ruled that Michigan cannot block aboriginal groups from opening off-reservation casinos due to states’ legal challenges being barred by tribal sovereign immunity. In a 5-4 decision, the highest court in the land decreed that Michigan did not have the authority to close the Bay Mills Indian Community’s casino located approximately 90 miles south of its Upper Peninsula reservation. Sixteen other states had submitted briefs in support of Michigan’s position while the ruling will be seen as a win for Indian tribes, which have increasingly looked to casinos as a source of revenues while relying on immunity to shield them from government interference. July 2014 casinoreview

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News

North America

Governor Robert Miller on the stage 46

GIGSE: GIGSE WILL DEBATE THE DOMINO EFFECT IN RELATION TO STATE BY STATE REGULATION OF IGAMING... AND HOW SOCIAL CASINO CAN BE INTEGRATED AS PART OF AN RMG STRATEGY.” RESORT CASINO LICENCE

LEGAL

Crews begin dismantling Harmon Hotel UNITED STATES

W Hard Rock joins race for New York resort casino licence A newly proposed Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in New York would feature a mix of gaming and non-gaming amenities including casino table games and slots. UNITED STATES

s competition heats up to win one of the seven resort casino gaming licences due to be put up for grabs by authorities in state of New York over the next year, Hard Rock International has partnered with NYS Funding for the potential development of a venue in the upstate city of Rensselaer. The planned Hard Rock Hotel and Casino is to sit at the DeLaet’s Landing site, which is the former home of Rensselaer High School, less than two miles across the Hudson River from the state capital, Albany. It would feature a mix of gaming and non-gaming amenities, including casino table games, slots, hotel rooms and food and beverage options. Hard Rock International has not disclosed additional specific details, as the project is still in its proposal phase, but further details will come to light after NYS Funding submits its request for application to the New

20 | casinoreview July 2014

York State Gaming Commission over the coming weeks “Hard Rock International is thrilled to collaborate with NYS Funding LLC to potentially create a world class facility in Rensselaer within the ‘capital region’ as it would become an important economic engine for the community,” said Jim Allen, chairman of Hard Rock International. “We look forward to lending our global recognition, strong legacy of philanthropy and entertainment and proven experience to this project. We are confident that this Hard Rock Hotel and Casino will positively impact the community’s economy.” Voters in the eastern state approved a controversial constitutional amendment in November that authorised the establishment of up to seven non-aboriginal resort casinos with full-table gaming facilities. The first four developments are to be sited outside of New York City in areas around the central Hudson River or Catskill Mountains, near the

state’s ‘southern tier’ border with Pennsylvania and close to the ‘capital region’ around Albany. New York already has five aboriginal-run casinos alongside nine racinos offering slot-like video lottery terminals with the first tranche of new resort developments due to be followed after seven years by another three although no more than two are to be permitted in each region. The state’s five-member Gaming Facility Location Board began accepting applications in late March and is expected to begin awarding licences in the autumn. “Hard Rock is an internationally recognised brand known for highquality offerings across the globe,” said Rensselaer mayor Dan Dwyer. “Introducing the Hard Rock brand to the region and to our city greatly elevates the excitement around this project and will make the resort casino even more attractive and successful as a destination for the local community and visitors alike.”

orkers in Las Vegas have begun dismantling the structurally defective Harmon Hotel, while the property’s owner, MGM Resorts International, and builder, Tutor Perini Building Company, remain locked in a legal battle to determine liability. Designed as a 48storey curved glassfronted tower sitting at the centre of the now completed $8.5bn (E6.2bn) CityCenter mixed-use urban complex, the development was stopped in 2008 after inspectors discovered flaws in the steel reinforcements of its concrete pylons. Attorneys for CityCenter, which opened in 2009, had long argued that the half-finished building should be demolished as it represented a safety hazard. They claimed that the completed 26 storeys could collapse if Las

Vegas were to be struck by a large earthquake, which is a scenario that experts have given a probability of 50 per cent over the next 30 years. Representatives for the builder countered that the structure should remain to serve as evidence in the MGM Resorts lawsuit, which is due to get underway in September, with the owner responsible for making the structure more earthquake-proof. However, early-May saw a judge approve demolition with MGM Resorts subsequently stating that the whole process is now expected to take an entire year to complete. Crews began removing scrap metal from the site late last month while protection systems are being installed over adjacent sidewalks and walkways. A crane will be used to dismantle the structure, which means that a street-level sidewalk is to be closed although nearby pedestrian bridges are to remain open.

www.patir.de info@patir.de

CR141-p22-23-SAmerica_Coinslot NEW 09/07/2014 13:04 Page 1

News

South America

LICENCE APPLICATION

Three operators in the running for vacant licence

CHILE

Some recognisable names have applied for the empty licence in Chillán, judging that purpose-built new venues in the city will have a better chance of turning a profit than the remote and tiny casino one of them will replace.

ust eight months after the closure of the Casino Termas de Chillán in the central Bío Bío region of Chile, three companies have put forward proposals to state authorities to take over the licence. The previous licence was held by Somontur Hotels, which operated a small casino in a ski resort 75km to the south east of Chillán city, the state capital: throughout its existence the casino brought in the lowest revenues of all the new-era venues and the inexperienced operators were repeatedly in breach of their licence, leading to fines that put ever more pressure on the business.

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The companies that want to take over the licence are all well known in the industry: Dreams, which operates several casinos in the country; Marina del Sol and Boldt Peralada. Each has pledged to invest millions of dollars in their projects. All three envisage venues much, much closer to city of more than 200,000 people. The Dreams project will cost more than US$87m and includes the construction of a five-star hotel. A company representative told the city council: “We have a project and a site that we believe is the most advantageous to the city, offering the most

jobs - and that is one of our greatest strengths. There will be 705 direct jobs and around 300 indirect jobs created over the 24 months it would take to build.” The Marina del Sol plan represents an investment of US$55m at a site on the Panamerican Highway that would see the creation of a museum, a lagoon, a city park and other facilities. The casino would house 450 gaming machines. At US$54m, the investment proposed by BoldtPeralada is the lowest of the three, also for a casino on the Panamerican Highway, which would create more

than 340 direct jobs and see the development of parks and sports facilities. City councillor Jorge Marcenaro said: “Chillán does not have an entertainment industry - it is one of the great gaps and will therefore be very welcome. This means a form of entertainment unlike anything else in the city.” He continued: “We have been talking about investments of millions - of the three, the lowest is US$54m. If you look back over the years, no one entity has ever invested so much in Chillán. The city will also get by law ten per cent of the revenues,

which if we take Talcahuano as a reference point means an extra US1.8m in the budget. The ski resort at Las Termas brings in about half of that per year, so the casino will be very important to us.” While the Chillán city council may have its favourite, their opinion only counts slightly in the decision to award the licence, which operates on a points system. Of a possible 2,000 points, the city’s decision accounts for just 150 points, whereas the regulator can award up to 1,300. A decision is expected within six months.

CR141-p22-23-SAmerica_Coinslot NEW 09/07/2014 13:35 Page 2

YXYXYXY ANTIGUA & BARBUDA / CHILE / PUERTO RICO OPERATOR NEWS: JW@SJC.CO.UK

CHILEAN REVIVAL: “CHILLÁN DOES NOT HAVE AN ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY - IT IS ONE OF THE GREAT GAPS AND ... THIS MEANS A FORM OF ENTERTAINMENT UNLIKE ANYTHING ELSE IN THE CITY.” RESORT CASINO

Antigua agrees deal for new resort casino ANTIGUA & BARBUDA

ust one day after being sworn in as the fourth prime minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Gaston Browne signed a memorandum of agreement with developer Yida International Investment Antigua that will see a $740m (E543m) casino resort constructed on one of the country’s outlying islands. Yida International is led by investor Yida Zhang, and the new tourist-focused development is expected to be the largest in the region since the similarly China-backed Baha Mar project, which is due to open in December. The new development will feature fivestar hotels, a casino and conference centre, 1,300 residential units and a 27-hole golf course alongside a marina and commercial, retail and sports facilities. The site for the new resort casino on Guiana Island and the nearby Crump Peninsula

was once owned by disgraced financier Allen Stanford. He was convicted of fraud in 2012 and is currently serving a 110year sentence with the land due to be purchased direct from liquidators. In an effort to get his Antigua Labour Party back in power after a decade in opposition, Browne campaigned to make projects such as this a priority and drive much needed economic growth. He revealed that the agreement will see Yida invest more than $74m (E54.35m) annually over the

Puerto Rico invites casino developers

he Department of Economic Development and Commerce in the US territory of Puerto Rico is offering casino operators the chance to build and operate a new venue on land that was once occupied by a naval base. Occupying approximately 3,000 acres of coastal land and facilities on the eastern end of the island adjacent to Puerto Rico’s El Yunque rainforest, the site of the former US Naval Station at Roosevelt Roads includes an airfield and is just minutes away from of some

rgentina’s Casino Santa Fe recently handed out over $28,000 (E20,500) in cash to a pair of players thanks to its popular progressive jackpot games. The first wins came during the afternoon of June 28 and first saw one Casino Plus member walk away with $20,900 (E15,313). This was followed this up only an hour later with another player banking $7,131 (E5,224). In an attempt to distance itself from the rival World Series Of Poker (WSOP), the Latin Series of Poker has changed its name to the Latin Poker

next ten years and give the small nation a ‘presence in the People’s Republic of China to attract additional economically viable investments’. “I promised the people that my administration would bring the type of investments to the country that will transform Antigua and Barbuda into an economic powerhouse and I am serious about that promise,” said Browne. “This memorandum of agreement is the result of our determination to work in the interest of the people of the country.”

CASINO LICENCE

PUERTO RICO

SOUTH AMERICA ROUND UP

of the world’s most beautiful beaches in Vieques and Culebra. The authority has asked that parties interested in developing on the land to submit a request for qualifications to the island’s Roosevelt Roads Local Redevelopment Authority before lodging their official interest in advance of a July 16 deadline. The next day will see potential investors invited to tour the site while August 7 has been set as the final day for qualifications to be submitted. “This announcement marks a milestone in the redevelopment process of the lands at Roosevelt Roads that will create the jobs and spur economic development that will transform the lives of the people and economies of the region and Puerto Rico,” said Malu Blazquez Arsuaga, executive director of the Local Redevelopment Authority. “Not only is the land’s vast size and preexisting infrastructure unusual but it also offers unparalleled access by sea and air, a year-round tropical climate, passport-free travel for US citizens and competitive tax benefits for investors.”

Series while declaring that all other facets of its organisation have remained unchanged. The travelling poker tournament series stated that all of its Season 7 scheduled events, which kick off from Panama’s Majestic Casino with the Millions II competition from September 13-20, will take place featuring the same player-centric focus. To complement its new name, the Latin Poker Series has launched a revamped website featuring a new design and key tournament information alongside a yet-to-be-revealed leader board competition. The first quarter of the year has seen total gaming revenues in Panama rise by just over three per cent year-onyear to reach $583.2m (E427.3m), according to a report from the Panamanian Gaming Control Board. The authority stated that slot machines accounted for much of the increase while wagering in bingo halls and casinos was becoming less fashionable. The popularity of the National Lottery has also played a part as it saw first-quarter sales swell by 12.2 percent year-on-year to $152.7m (E111.8m). July 2014 casinoreview

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Venetian Macao 18-20 November 2014

By Asia

for the world

For more information and to book your place at Asia’s ‘must attend’ gaming exhibition contact enquiry@MacaoGamingShow.com, visit MacaoGamingShow.com or telephone +853 6363 0080 or +852 6329 6008 PRC hotline: +86 180 6387 4408

MGS is back and even better!

Feature rich

Now’s the time to book your attendance at MGS 2014 18th – 20th November. MGS is the only show that is truly representative of the Asian gaming industry. And the only event to earn the title ‘by Asia, for the World’.

Visit the highly acclaimed Slot Experience Center. Gain invaluable knowledge at the Macao Gaming Summit. Promote your brands on MGSTV.

MGS means business Exhibiting at MGS makes fantastic business sense. Reach out to casinos, integrated resorts, regulators and gaming afﬁliated businesses. 83% of MGS visitors are either decision makers or have direct input to purchasing decisions. An overwhelming majority (99%) said they would be returning to MGS in 2014.

The best networking in Asia Invaluable business networking opportunities. Get to know potential business partners in a relaxed and casual atmosphere.

And we will even help pay your way! The Macao SAR Government is once again offering attractive subsidies to qualiﬁed buyers from air fares to hotel accommodation, making MGS the key annual meeting hub for casino procurement teams.

Event Organiser

Event Co-Organisers

Event Contractor

CR141-p26-27-Comment_Coinslot NEW 09/07/2014 13:38 Page 1

Comment & Analysis

CONFERENCES

Social responsibility and the protection of consumers will play a central role in the new Dutch Gaming Bill, according to Marja Appelman, director of the Dutch Gaming Authority.

Responsibility focus for new Dutch Gaming Bill

he third edition of the Gaming in Holland conference took place in Amsterdam on June 23-24, with the country’s impending online gaming legislation taking centre stage. Marja Appelman, director of the Dutch Gaming Authority - the Kansspelautoriteit said she expects the parliamentary process to be completed by January 1, 2015. “It is up to us as the Dutch Gaming Authority to translate the new legal framework into practical procedures, processes and guidelines,” she told delegates. While Appelman said she could not reveal full details of the bill, she said the Dutch Gaming Authority was working closely with other regulators around the

world. “Online gaming operators work in international markets, and we know that you don’t want to have different technical standards between markets,” she said. “We have been co-operating with other gaming authorities and exchanging best practices in an effort to harmonise, where possible, the technical and administrative procedures. I hold the opinion that such co-operation is absolutely necessary.” Appelman said consumer protection would be at the top of the regulatory agenda, and that the Dutch Gaming Authority is currently working with the Ministry of Security and the Ministry of Public Health to create a detailed list of operational requirements for licensed

operators, which will include a self-exclusion clause. “Operators have the legal responsibility to monitor and analyse the behaviour of their consumers and intervene with harmful gambling behaviour,” she said. “We will set a minimal level of processes and requirements operators will have to adhere to, in order to ensure safe and responsible gaming for Dutch citizens. “The gaming authority is working on the documents regarding the licensing procedure. As soon as it is ready, we will make our requirements public, so that operators will be able to see exactly how we have translated all those requirements in practical procedures.

mer 2014, with the $442m venue still awaiting regulatory approval ahead of its 26 August opening. The resort will boast a 122,000 square feet casino floor, featuring slot machines, blackjack and other table games. This site will also feature a specially designed poker room featuring branding from the World Series of Poker. Casino officials have announced that the development will bring around 1,700 jobs to the local area. Online, things are certainly going offline for some. Online casino 888 has reacted to the controversy surrounding Uruguayan soccer star Luis Suarez by removing him as one of the company’s brand ambassador. Suarez was banned by FIFA from engaging in any footballing activity for four months following a bite on Italian player Giorgio Chiellini the World Cup in Brazil. The British newspaper the Daily Telegraph quotes a statement from the poker

arm of the betting website, which states that, “regrettably, following his actions during Uruguay’s World Cup match against Italy on Tuesday, 888poker has decided to terminate its relationship with Luis Suarez with immediate effect.” Suarez had only become a spokesperson for the company shortly before the World Cup, following an impressive season for Barclays Premiership side Liverpool. The player had produced a number of video diaries for 888 over the course of the tournament, which included thrilling performances that included spearheading Uruguay’s defeat of England in the World Cup group stages. “We have no plan to use Suarez for any additional marketing activities during the 2014 FIFA World Cup,” quotes the Telegraph. “We will discuss all aspects of our future partnership directly with Suarez and his team following the World Cup.”

MEDIAWATCH

Photo by Ailura

Caesars strongly signals Japanese investment plans, as a new Horseshoe opens in Baltimore and Suarez loses his 888 endorsement.

26 | casinoreview July 2014

he chairman and CEO of Caesars Entertainment, Gary Loveman has been talking to Bloomberg TV about the potential for a regulated casino industry in Japan. The opening of large-scale casinos in the country has been mooted for some time and the its National Diet hopes to pass a bill in the Autumn of 2014. When challenged on how his company would pay for the construction of new casinos, given the $23bn of debt the company currently possesses, Loveman argued that the potential of opening the Japanese market would allow the projects to be “financed very largely on their own.” Loveman estimated that overall investment in the new sector would amount to at least $5bn. Back in Loveman’s home country, the Washington Post reveals that a new casino is scheduled to open in Baltimore, Maryland, USA. The ribbon will be cut on the Horseshoe Casino Baltimore in late sum-

CR141-p26-27-Comment_Coinslot NEW 10/07/2014 18:11 Page 2

YXYXYXY TO COMMENT EMAIL: JW@SJC.CO.UK

VDAI: “...THE GERMAN AMUSEMENT AND VENDING MACHINE INDUSTRY IS EXPECTING THE LOSS OF MORE THAN 50 PER CENT OF THE 70,000 JOBS DIRECTLY DEPENDENT ON THE INDUSTRY...”

EVENTS

‘The basis for holding IMA does not exist’ The organisers of IMA have issued a statement explaining why Germany’s principal gaming and amusement show has once again been cancelled.

ast month, Reed Exhibitions and German trade association Verband der Deutschen Automatenindustrie (VDAI) announced that 2015 edition of IMA had been cancelled. Traditionally held in Düsseldorf every January, IMA returned from a short hiatus this year. However, despite a successful event in 2014, VDAI said the decision to cancel the event next year was due to “due to economic reasons resulting from political decisions on the part of the

German states and the Federal government”. According to the association, the German State Treaty on Games of Chance (GIüStV), which came into force in 2012, has served to significantly increase the local amusement

taxes in some communities and repress the gaming and vending machines industry. “Further drastic limitations are to be imposed by the planned amendment of the gaming ordinance,” VDAI said. “Years of development work have

been abruptly rendered obsolete. The manufacturers represented by the VDAI face production setbacks of previously unknown proportions. “At the same time, the German amusement and vending machine industry is expecting the loss of more than 50 per cent of the 70,000 jobs directly dependent on the industry, as well as approximately 35,000 jobs indirectly dependent on it, should all restrictions be confirmed as being legal in the precise form they have been drafted.” “In the opinion of the manufacturers represented by the VDAI, entrepreneurial and financial prudence requires them to refrain from participating in IMA until such time as the legal situation has been clarified,” the association added. “As a result, the basis for holding IMA does not exist.”

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July 2014 casinoreview

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CR141-p29-33-Supplier_Coinslot NEW 10/07/2014 17:16 Page 1

News

Supplier SYSTEMS

APPOINTMENTS CASH VALIDATORS

GLI expands Australian business

IGT wins Latvia contract asino gaming entertainment developer and manufacturer International Game Technology (IGT) has signed a deal that will see its technology utilised on approximately 1,000 machines in 50 slot halls throughout Latvia. The agreement with operator DLV is set to run for two years beginning this month with the Latvian firm leveraging IGT’s Casinolink, Medialink and EZ Pay systems to maximise efficiency and player engagement through improved accounting with jackpot and customer management technologies. “This significant systems installation throughout multiple DLV properties in Latvia provides an excellent example of IGT’s position as a global leader in wide-area casino management systems deployments,” said Ian Baynes, EMEA regional

vice-president of IGT. “Other vendors have tried but were not able to deliver the comprehensive technology and quality that should enable DLV to dramatically enhance its patron offerings while greatly improving its operating efficiencies and control.” The deal also marks the first time the Xtra Credit systems module from IGT has been utilised in Europe, which enables easy deployment of promotional awards while additionally increasing play time. “We chose IGT systems because Casinolink provides a proven multi-site modular system that offers DLV enhanced management controls and the ability to offer our players the very best promotions and bonuses that, in turn, should drive more play,” said Mihails Volokotkins, chairman of DLV.

JCM lands Casino Lisboa contract

asino Lisboa has named JCM Global as its preferred bill validator supplier. The waterfront casino in Lisboa is the latest in a string of casinos across Europe that have named JCM’s iVizion as its preffered validator. Casino Lisboa general manager Lou Ion San

said: “We have been happy with our JCM products and service in the past, and after the iVizion field trial, it was very clear that we could evolve our casino operations with iVizion. We are very pleased with the product and the increased security it brings to our casino floor.”

JCM EMEA general manager Payam Zadeh added: “During its iVizion trial, the casino discovered what casinos across Europe and around the world already know - that iVizion is the better, smarter, faster solution that increases security and evolve casino operations.”

EXHIBITIONS

MGS announces influential exhibitor line-up rganisers of November’s Macao Gaming Show (MGS) have unveiled an exhibitor list which comprises many of the biggest and most influential organisations active in the international gaming community. Taking place across November18-20 at the Venetian Macao, MGS will fea- Marina Wo ng, general ture a raft of heavyweight manager and event international gaming com- director fo r MGS panies, including IGT Asia Macau, Aristocrat (Macau), ogy, TCS John Huxley, LT Angel Playing Cards, Aruze Gaming Macau, Game, BMM Testlabs, Astro Inspired Gaming Group, Ainsworth Game Technol- Corporation, Future Logic, JCM Global, Matsui Asia

28 | casinoreview July 2014

urrently celebrating its 25th anniversary, Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) is continuing to expand its operations in its three Australian labs, both in terms of staff and in clients served. GLI’s three Australiabased labs, known collectively as GLI Australia, are increasing the pool of technical expertise to meet everincreasing demand of existing and new customers, adding 18 new staff members over the past six months. The staffing increase at GLI Australia includes four seasoned test engineering veterans: David Dang, Surendranath Dwarakanath, Liliana Hrncic and Ken Truc Han Truong. “Regional jurisdictions are becoming more and more cognisant of the fact that both players and government regulators have high expectations when it comes to player fairness, and that GLI strives to meet these expectations with due diligence,” said GLI Australia COO, Espee de Robillard (pictured). “Regulators, manufacturers and operators have come to trust GLI Australia as a true partner, and our operational performance continues to scale with growth benefiting regulators, manufacturers and operators.”

and MEI Group. As of July 1, 95 per cent of last year’s exhibitors have re-booked with companies new to MGS being offered stand options for the 2014 event. Marina Wong, general manager and event director at MGS said: “Our objective was to build on the success achieved in 2013 and the response from the international gaming community has been very positive. 2014 is on course to be a bigger event featuring returning companies as well as those

which will be new to MGS. “The proportion of returning exhibitors is a very accurate measure of success and I’m delighted to have some very important companies on the floor plan. The MGS slogan ‘By Asia for the World’ could not be more appropriate.” Macao Gaming Show is organised by the Macau Gaming Equipment Manufacturers Association (MGEMA) and is now in its second year following a highly successful launch in 2013.

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YXYXYXY ARISTOCRAT / GLI / IGT / JCM GLOBAL / LT GAME / MACAO GAMING SHOW SUPPLIER NEWS: JW@SJC.CO.UK

ARISTOCRAT ACQUISITION GLI APPOINTMENT JCM GLOBAL SUPPLY CONTRACT LT GAME NEVADA LICENCE • AWARD MACAO GAMING SHOW EXHIBITORS GAMING SYSTEMS

ACQUISITIONS

LT Game receives Aristocrat pursues VGT Nevada approval purchase L A T Game has received formal approval from the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) for the installation of its Live Table Multi Games System throughout the US state, following a successful field trial at the Palazzo Casino in Las Vegas. “The Live Table Multi Games System is the answer to casino operators’ demand for labour optimisation, operational efficiencies and player convenience,” said Jay Chun (pictured), chairman and CEO of LT Game’s parent company, Paradise Entertainment. “The Live Table Multi Games System offer players the flexibility and convenience of being able to view and play multiple live-broadcasted games simultaneously, enhanc-

s it looks to continue its expansion into the US market, Australian firm Aristocrat Leisure has confirmed that it is conducting final due diligence on a proposed purchase of gaming machine manufacturer Video Gaming Technologies (VGT). Primarily responsible for the manufacture of slot machines for use in aboriginal-run casinos in the US and Mexico, VGT, which is based in the Tennessee town of Franklin, also operates the bingo-based Live-Call Bingo game in addition to developing the Riverboat Queen multigame system and the Treasure Quest

ing player experience while increasing game productivity for operators tremendously.” The Live Table Multi Games System has been a dominant electronic gaming machine category in the Macau market and has seen a rapid surge in

series of skill-based titles. In a filing with the Australian Stock Exchange, Sydney-based Aristocrat stated that there is no guarantee that the proposed acquisition, which could cost it up to $1bn (E733.4m), will be successful as it only consider transactions that are “consistent with its strategy, enhance shareholder value and are accretive to earnings”. Aristocrat has a market cap in excess of $2.82bn (E2.06b) and the proposed deal, which is currently undergoing final due diligence, would see its US footprint increase significantly.

demand from overseas operators. The approval granted by the NGCB marks an important milestone for LT Game’s expansion into the US and signifies the start of an important chapter in the company’s global growth story.

MULTI-GAMES

Prestigious prize for LT Game ay’s G2E Asia 2014 exhibition saw LT Game receive the Best MultiTerminal Product award from Asia-focused gaming industry trade publication Inside Asian Gaming for its Live Table Multi-Game System. The gaming and casino technology provider stated that its Live Multi-Game System is perfect for customers because it offers players “the opportunity to gamble simultaneously” on multiple tables and games via one terminal and without having to leave their chairs. Macau-based LT Game additionally declared that its Live Multi-Game System offers numerous benefits to casinos as well including the ability to site an increased number of players per table. This means that venues may need to employ less dealers per table while games run using its inno-

vation proceed at a faster pace when compared with their more traditional counterparts. All of this sees casino operators presented with the ability to decrease outlays and increase profits. “LT Game sincerely appreciates Inside Asian Gaming for this award,” said Jay Chun, chairman of LT Game. “This recognition of our efforts gives us a sense of security and confidence in our daily jobs. We will redouble our efforts to keep growing and improving our levels to support our customers. LT Game is going to continue to work hard with new ideas and products and we expect to win this award again the next year.”

sales@hk1180.com

www.ltgame.com

July 2014 casinoreview

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News

Supplier CCTV

LIVE CASINO

South Korean casino banks on Dallmeier technology

Evolution rolls out Danish Live Casino

volution Gaming, a world leader in video-streamed Live Dealer gaming, has launched a unique new online Live Casino for Danske Licens Spil in Denmark’s liberalised gaming market. The new service from state-owned Danske Licens Spil commenced live rollout on July 3 with dedicated Live Roulette and Live Blackjack tables hosted at Evolution’s Malta studios. These dedicated tables sit within a studio area devoted exclusively to the Danish national

Seoul’s Seven Luck Casino has selected highdefinition monitoring and recording solutions from Germany’s leading video surveillance products and solutions firm Dallmeier. resh from opening its Southern Showroom in Munich, Germany, last month, video surveillance products and solutions firm Dallmeier has provided the Seven Luck Casino in Seoul with an upgraded system utilising state-of-the-art high-definition network technology. Owned by Grand Korea Leisure and located in the centre of the South Korean capital’s Gangnam district, the 6,000sq.m Seven Luck Casino is open around the clock, offering over 70 gaming tables and more than 100 slots. The venue now monitors all of the action using 510 high-definition dome, box and PTZ cameras from Regensburg-based Dallmeier placed in the foyer, above gaming tables and the slot machine areas, inside the VIP

room and the cash centre and around the car park. “The Dallmeier solution is considered to be one of the most reliable casino security systems on the market and the technology also lived up to its reputation in our tests,” Grand Korea Leisure said. Working in tandem with the cameras, which take in images at 30 frames per second, Seven Luck Casino additionally installed blade recorders from Dallmeier complete with integrated storage systems that sees the German firm partner its Linux-based appliances with a Windows-based PC counterpart that utilises Smavia Recording Server Software to hold images redundantly before sending them for single mass storage. “This way, we can guarantee the highest possible levels of both data

security and availability at the same time,” said Jeon Yongwan, general manager at Dallmeier Korea. The entire surveillance operation is controlled using SeMSy management software, which provides users with a rapid overview of all cameras including the display of live pictures alongside search capabilities and the ability to con-

trol PTZ units. “SeMSy is not only extraordinarily powerful [but] it can also be operated simply and intuitively,” read a statement from Dallmeier. “Control is made even more convenient for the Seven Luck Casino by the addition of VMC-1, a video management system that combines a joystick, keyboard, monitor and jog-shuttle functions.”

3D GAMING

Sphinx goes live in Las Vegas ollowing its award-winning global launch at the 2013 Global Gaming Expo, GTech’s Sphinx 3D game has been brought to life for the first time in the North American casino market at the MGM Grand Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. The first title in GTech’s new True 3D product line, which uses a glasses-free 3D display designed exclusively for the company by

30 | casinoreview July 2014

SeeFront, the Sphinx 3D game has already garnered multiple awards and accolades, and has been identified as one of the most highly anticipated premium games for three consecutive quarters. Sphinx 3D game uses a unique, patented autostereoscopic technology with integrated eye-tracking to make images jump off the screen or stretch into the distance in high resolution. It runs on the new Axxis cabinet, which is designed to maximise player comfort, create a sense of personal space, and immerse the player in the game.

“Based on the responses from gaming operators and from players themselves, the Sphinx 3D game is positive proof of GTech’s ability to successfully combine innovation and entertainment in the commercial casino segment,” said Victor Duarte, GTech’s vice president of gaming and content, and Senior vice president of North American commercial gaming. “As the game is rolled out to casinos across North America, we expect its performance to be driven by its unique and compelling features and functionalities.”

gambling operator. The area features Danske Licens Spil design, décor and branding throughout, as well as dedicated teams of native speaking Danish dealers and chat moderators. The live dealer games are available on desktop initially, with access on iPhone, iPad and leading Android tablets and smartphone scheduled to go live soon. In addition to these dedicated tables, Danske Licens Spil players will be able to access further Live Roulette and Blackjack games hosted at Evolution’s studios in Latvia, as well as Live Casino Hold’em, Mini Live Roulette and Evolution’s multi-camera Immersive Roulette.

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CASINO TECHNOLOGY / DALLMEIER / EGT / EVOLUTION / GTECH / KONAMI GAMING SUPPLIER NEWS: JW@SJC.CO.UK

CASINO TECHNOLOGY ONLINE CASINO DALLMEIER SURVEILLANCE EQUIPMENT EGT PROGRESSIVE JACKPOTS EVOLUTION LIVE CASINO GTECH 3D GAMING KONAMI AWARDS

ONLINE CASINO

AWARDS

Casino Technology unleashes The Big 5

Konami executive wins award

Casino Technology’s new solutions suite unveiled at the recent iGaming Super Show in Amsterdam received positive feedback thanks to its wide range of options and sophisticated tools.

s it looks to continue erasing the borders between classic and online gaming, Casino Technology used the recent iGaming Super Show in Amsterdam to exhibit its new The Big 5 solutions suite. Combining its Rhino Casino Management System, Lion Money Management System, Buffalo Universal Jackpot Server, Elephant Remote Game Server and Leopard Online Gaming System, The Big 5 offers operators a way to smoothly transition from the land-based sector to the online and mobile channels. The Big 5 was shown off at the exhibition by the Bulgarian firm’s new Casino Technology Interactive division. “For us this is an excellent opportunity to introduce to an international audience our new turnkey solution that meets the highest standards of efficiency and full convergence,” said Konrad Gill, iGaming director of the Sofia-based company. The Bulgarian firm also used the iGaming Super Show to finalise a contract that will see its Elephant Remote Game Server integrated into the NYX Open Gaming System from Swedish online gambling platform provider NYX Interactive. The

deal represented the culmination of many months of negotiation and will see the company’s games featured on top online gaming websites around the world. Further afield, Casino Technology attended last month’s Peru Gaming Show in Lima to premiere its new Peacock and Dragon series of Asia-themed games complete with high-definition graphics and intriguing story lines based on Chinese mythology. Linked to the 8 Peacocks progressive jackpot, the titles will soon be homologated so that local players can discover the exciting mysteries of Asia. The Buffalo Universal Jackpot Server was also shown off in Peru while new themed games from the branded Penthouse Slots series grabbed the attention of visitors due to their eye-catching graphics, hot cartoon beauties and great winnings. “The company continues its expansion in Peru and other Latin American markets. Our products, particularly the Gamopolis multigame series, enjoy a very good acceptance in Chile and Colombia,” said Liliana Candelino, Latin America business development manager at Casino Technology.

On the floor, Highway-branded cabinets with video toppers from Casino Technology were recently installed at the Enjoy Casino in the Chilean port city of Coquimbo.

lobal casino gaming and systems firm Konami Gaming has congratulated marketing manager, Annabelle Lee after she was named as one of this year’s Great Woman of Gaming Rising Star honorees. The awards highlight females that have shown commitment to continued professionalism, exceptional personal achievement and positive contributions to their company, associates and the gaming industry as a whole and each year highlight no more than ten nominees in the Proven Leader and Rising Star categories. Konami stated that Lee joined its ranks over six years ago and has ‘displayed commitment and perseverance’ in establishing its ‘signature presence’ at high-profile events and promotions. “Her ability to consistently go above and beyond her job responsibilities to make a difference, her active participation in efforts

to grow the gaming industry and her commitment to Konami Gaming and her coworkers all reflect Annabelle’s tireless work ethic and passion for our industry,” said Matt Reback, marketing vice-president at Konami Gaming. Promoted twice since joining the marketing team at Konami Gaming in 2007, Lee is currently responsible for ensuring that the company is properly represented in all advertising as well at international tradeshows, throughout its website and at customer events. “Annabelle Lee’s efforts are perhaps most visibly seen each year in Konami Gaming’s many tradeshow booths, the design and operation of which are under her careful direction,” said Reback. “In all facets, she has an uncanny gift for building relationships and advancing the interests the gaming community as a whole.”

PROGRESSIVE JACKPOTS

Cat4Cash debuts in France uro Games Technology’s latest jackpot system, Cat4Cash, has been installed for the first time in France. The casino managers of Casino Terrazur in Cagnes sur Mer and Casino Flamingo in Grau du Roi reported excellent feedback from all their customers. At the end of June, the Cat4Cash jackpot system was also installed in three

more casinos - Casino de Dunkerque, Casino Seven Amneville, and Casino de Pau. All of the casinos are a part of Groupe Tranchant. Cat4Cash is a four-level progressive jackpot system, presented in a specific cabinet with 22-inch widescreen main monitor and 32-inch portrait-oriented top monitor. The hardware configuration includes an impressive jackpot panel featuring clear

view of the increasing jackpot values and an attractive animation, which creates a cheerful atmosphere, draws the players’ attention and prolongs the play. The Cat4Cash Jackpot system is available with a multigame of six popular game titles from the everexpanding EGT video slot library. Stanislav Stanev, director of sales and marketing for

EGT, confirmed: “The Cat4Cash Jackpot System is a product which has already become a favourite in other countries, and I am quite certain that it will have similar success in France. “Apart from the attractive appearance, the Cat4Cash features unique mathematics and an assorted choice of games which makes it even more various engaging and entertaining for the players.” July 2014 casinoreview

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News

Supplier PAYMENT SOLUTIONS

MOBILE GAMING

Cash handling leaders Inspired inks confirms MGS participation William Hill Printing and couponing solutions specialist FutureLogic will be high profile at the Venetian Macao Resort Hotel in November alongside transaction technologies supplier JCM Global. rinter solutions firm FutureLogic has joined with transaction technologies supplier JCM Global in attending the upcoming Macao Gaming Show, which will take place at the Venetian Macao Resort Hotel from November 18 to 20. FutureLogic stated that it will be exhibiting an “impressive portfolio of printing and couponing solutions” at the Macao Gaming Show including its Ticket2Go networkless ticket-out payment machine. It is to demonstrate how the multi-lingual and multi-currency innovation can be installed across numerous sites and provide a simple ticket-based solution to payouts. For its part, JCM declared that it will be in Macau to exhibit a ‘full range of validator, printers and technologies’ including the latest intelligent cash boxes and firmware upload tools. It proclaimed that members of its staff would also be on hand to demonstrate technologies and discuss business opportunities. FutureLogic was also at the recent Canadian Gaming Summit in Vancouver, British Columbia, to show off its range of printing and couponing products, including the PromoNet and TableXchange innovations as well as its Gen3 Evolution Gen3 Universal and CouponXpress printers. Alongside Patrick Flannery, senior director at Aristocrat, and Bally Technology’s product planning senior director, Ron Galloway, FutureLogic’s chief mar-

keting officer, John Edmunds, also took part in the After TITO: The Next Technology Wave panel discussion at the Vancouver Convention Centre. The June 24 event, which was moderated by Vic Poleschuk of local casino operator Great Canadian Gaming, saw Edmunds share industry insights and demonstrate ways that operators could optimise existing resources and utilise new technologies in order to expand their reach on the casino floor. “The adoption of TITO in the early 2000s was brisk but its full potential has

yet to be unleashed,” said John Edmunds, chief marketing officer at FutureLogic. “To keep up with the newest economic challenges and to stay competitive, land-based operators need to take full advantage of all existing casino resources. Taking full advantage of TITO can be an invaluable tool for all brick and mortar casinos. By extending TITO to table games and using promotional couponing across all games throughout the resort, operators can gain a clear advantage over their competitors.”

SLOTS

Aristocrat launches Batman at Pechanga conic TV star Adam West made a special appearance at Pechanga Resort and Casino on June 25, as the California casino welcomed the arrival of its latest slot game, Batman Classic TV Series. Developed by Aristocrat Technologies and powered by the Wonder Wheels game category, the new $250,000 (E200,000) multisite progressive game fea-

tures still and video imagery from the classic TV series with Adam West and three mechanical wheels that increase player engagement. Gameplay is enhanced by stacked wilds, six themed bonus features, video clips from the TV series and a highly anticipatory wheel feature trigger. New to the industry is the independent wheel

32 | casinoreview July 2014

mobile deal

function of Wonder Wheels, which allows the players on the bank to continue uninterrupted when another player hits a trigger and engages wheelmode. “The Batman Classic TV Series is packed full of eyecatching imagery, iconic phrases, and memorable characters,” said Karen McTier, executive vice president of domestic

licensing and worldwide marketing for Warner Bros Consumer Products. At 10.5ft tall, Batman Classic TV Series towers above others on the casino floor. The action comes to life in Aristocrat’s new Helix cabinet paired with a large portrait-style topbox screen for bonuses and is punctuated with Aristocrat’s sensory-busting surround sound iChair.

nspired Gaming Group has signed a deal that will see it supply a portfolio of HTML5 games to British bookmaker William Hill for use on its mobile betting platform beginning with White Knight. A supplier of serverbased gaming video lottery and virtual sports content, Inspired said it would follow this initial release with an HTML5 version of Goddess of the Amazon later in the year. “William Hill is a leader in online betting and gaming and we are delighted to be expanding our games portfolio to its online and mobile players,” said Luke Alvarez, CEO of Inspired Gaming. “Cross-channel convergence is a key philosophy of Inspired Gaming’s global expansion strategy and White Knight is the first of many exciting HTML5 games to be released to William Hill’s mobile gaming platform in the coming year. “Inspired Gaming’s mobile games currently support iOS and Android devices and will be available on Windows devices soon.” Inspired revealed that it has also further enhanced its Virgo remote games server to offer white label services while six new HTML5 games are to be released via the innovation in 2014.

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ARISTOCRAT / BALLY TECHNOLOGIES / FUTURELOGIC / GREENTUBE / IGT / INSPIRED GAMING / JCM GLOBAL SUPPLIER NEWS: JW@SJC.CO.UK

ARISTOCRAT SLOT LAUNCH BALLY PRIZES FUTURELOGIC EXHIBITION GREENTUBE ACQUISITION IGT JACKPOTS INSPIRED MOBILE GAMING JCM EXHIBITION

JACKPOTS

Bally awards $1.2m progressive slot jackpot

Lucrative month for Wheel Of Fortune

Bally Technologies has handed out in excess of $3.2m over the past two months courtesy of 1,000,000 Degrees, Cash Connection and Millionaire Sevens wide-area progressives. he 1,000,000 Degrees wide-area progressive slot jackpot from US gaming machine manufacturer Bally Technologies was hit early last month at a casino in Alabama for over $1.2m (E907,000). Pawn shop owner Jerry Dennis (pictured) from LaGrange, Georgia, had been enjoying the one-cent denomination Triple Blazing 7s Wild Jackpot game at the Wind Creek casino in Wetumpka for about 20 minutes on June 8 before winning a life-changing $1,238,018 (E907,167). The 69-year-old player, who often enjoys the Triple Blazing 7s Wild Jackpot game, had seen the $100 bill he originally inserted decrease to $40 before walking away with the jackpot and says that he will now invest in a new home appliance. “I didn’t really have a reaction right away,” said the unmarried winner. “I just started playing the machine next to me. I figured why not make it a $2m day. I’m going to get myself a

new refrigerator but not the fancy kind.” Triple Blazing 7s Wild Jackpot features a milliondollar progressive jackpot opportunity that players trigger by collecting nine 1,000,000 Degrees symbols on a maximum bet. Available on the Alpha Elite S9E upright widescreen stepper platform from Bally Technologies, the title, which subsequently had its base cash prize reset to $999,999 (E732,648), also offers the

chance to collect up to 15 free bonus games for three scattered Free Games symbols reels two to four. The Alabama win followed a pair of wide-area progressive pay-days in May that saw Bally Technologies award two slot players with over $2m (E1.4m) in total cash. The first success took place on May 17 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida, with a woman from Virginia banking $1,070,209

(E783,710) courtesy of the Millionaire Sevens prize hit on the one-cent denomination Money Vault game. This was followed three days later by a windfall of $971,979 (E711,920) awarded via the Cash Connection jackpot on the Hot Shot Progressive game at Little River Casino Resort in Manistee, Michigan. Bally Technologies stated that its Millionaire Sevens wide-area progressive, which is offered by numerous aboriginal casinos and is eligible to be won by slot aficionados in California, Florida, Mississippi, Nevada and New Jersey, features a cash award that increases as more games are played. The Las Vegas-based firm additionally declared that its Hot Shot Progressive video slot is a double-wheel configuration of the popular brand featured on a 42-inch vertical display sitting atop a 22-inch high-definition screen with popular play mechanics, touch-activated interaction, progressives and free games.

trio of American slot players became instant millionaires last month thanks to developer International Game Technology (IGT) and its series of Wheel of Fortune games tied to the MegaJackpots progressive jackpot. The first winner took home $1.6m (E1.1m) in cash on June 14 at the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Connecticut, thanks to the Wheel of Fortune Super Spin Wolf Run game before the very next day saw a player at the San Manuel Indian Bingo and Casino in Highland, California, bank $1.3m (E980,000) off the Wheel of Fortune Double 3x4x5x Pay MultiPlay. A third life-changing cash prize of $1.1m (E825,000) was then won on June 16 by a player at

the WinStar World Casino and Resort in Thackerville, Oklahoma, after they placed a wager on a Wheel of Fortune Super Diamonds slot. IGT launched the MegaJackpots progressive product line in 1986 and has so far awarded thousands of winners with cash prizes ranging from $1m (E720,000) to a world-record $39m (E28.6m). June began with a slot player at the Bellagio in Las Vegas winning $1.1m (E825,000) in MegaJackpots cash from Wheel of Fortune. The Florida resident, who was on holiday in Nevada to visit family at the time, described the event as “unbelievable” and revealed that she intends to invest most of the prize.

ONLINE BINGO

Greentube completes Bingocams acquisition reentube, a leading developer and provider of skill games for internet, mobile, PC and iTV and its parent company, the Novomatic Group, has acquired Bingocams, one of the most popular and innovative online bingo platforms, from Dazzletag Entertainment. The Bingocams integrated web platform combines online bingo with social media and video. Players can engage each other via two or three person pri-

vate webcam chats during game play, thereby re-establishing the traditional social element of live, in-person bingo. “Bingocams is a welcome addition to the Greentube line of iGaming solutions,” said Thomas Graf, CEO of Greentube. “This acquisition marks another major step forward for Greentube and further enhances Novomatic’s position of significance within the ever expanding new world of online gaming.”

Dazzletag revolutionised the online bingo industry when they introduced their no-download Bingocams application. The platform offers players a wide range of bingo games in a friendly, interpersonal environment that includes live chat among players and live chat with hosts. In addition, Bingocams offers a patented Live Win Moment that provides a visual playing experience that captures the social spirit of live bingo. July 2014 casinoreview

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ADULT GAMING CENTRES / APPOINTMENT / CABINETS / EVENTS / GAME CONTENT / HARDWARE / SYSTEMS

LISTINGS

Business2Business SUPPLIER NEWS: JW@SJC.CO.UK

SYSTEMS

DRGT receives German plaudits

fter introducing cashless gaming at Casino Bad Homburg in February, DRGT has received positive feedback from both the German casino’s customers and management. DRGT stated that its card-based cashless system has been “well accepted” at the Hesse venue because players - 85 per cent of which are loyal customers - enjoy its ease of use. “Our customers are paying us back for our investment in the future,” said Lutz Schenkel, managing director for Casino Bad Homburg.

Exhibition Centre in Lima on June 11-12. Teaming up with local partner Happy Games, the Austrian group presented its latest generation of slot machine solutions - the Performer C22, which houses the Multi Game platform. “Operators are seeing more and more that offering optimal gaming solutions to their customers not only retains them but brings in new players,” said Amatic sales manager, Thomas Engstberger.

ADULT GAMING CENTRES HARDWARE Quixant launches HD gaming platform

uixant unveiled the QX-50, the most powerful platform it has ever developed, at G2E, Asia last month. The new QX-50 has been designed to respond to the evolving needs of game developers in bringing 4K ‘Ultra HD’ display technology to the gaming industry. It builds on the success of the firm’s current flagship, the QX-40, and harnesses the power of AMD’s latest APU technology. The QX-50 delivers enhanced performance, a deep gaming feature set, software support for Windows and Linux and integrates several new technologies. “We believe 4K presents a huge opportunity for game developers to deliver a new breed of games that stand out from the crowd,” said John Malin, sales director of Quixant UK.

EVENTS Amatic’s Multi Game a hit at PGS

matic Industries once again had a strong presence at the Peru Gaming Show (PGS) that took place at the Jockey

34 | casinoreview July 2014

Astra Gaming Group enters AGC sector

he Astra Gaming Group - a whollyowned UK subsidiary of Austrian Gaming Industries (AGI), part of the Novomatic Group - has acquired the majority of the Noble Organisation arcade business for an undisclosed sum. Under the terms of the deal, Astra will take ownership of 81 adult gaming centres and one family entertainment centre, along with 48 Kwik Tan venues and 10 cafes, all of which are sited within the arcades themselves. The business currently employs circa 850 staff led by some of the most experienced management personnel in the business. Astra Gaming Group confirmed that the existing staff members will continue to

region of the Midwest US, has announced the appointment of David Wolf (pictured) as its new president and general manager. With more than 33 years of leadership experience in the gaming arena, Wolf will oversee all aspects of the operation at the Rock Island, Illinois, venue, including gaming, food and beverage, and lodging. Wolf comes to Jumer’s after spending four years as general manager at Odawa Casino Resort in Petoskey, Michigan.

GAME CONTENT Williams teams with EveryMatrix

he Williams Interactive subsidiary of Scientific Games Corporation has signed a deal that will see it provide content to online gaming platform provider EveryMatrix for use in the Casino Engine innovation. Already one of the largest online casino content aggregators and coming complete with a seamless wallet and unified back-office for reporting and bonus modules, Casino Engine will now be able to offer EveryMatrix’ growing client base even more options.

CABINETS WMS Gaming shows it all in Vancouver

W be utilised in order to champion the strong Nobles brand identity within the Novomatic Group.

APPOINTMENTS New president for Jumer’s

umer’s Casino and Hotel, a leading gaming destination in the Quad Cities

MS Gaming used last month’s Canadian Gaming Summit in Vancouver to premiere a number of products including the new Blade Stepper cabinet, which has been designed to bring classic mechanical features to the contemporary slot floor. The British Columbia show marked the first time that the Scientific Games subsidiary had presented innovations from its lottery, gaming and interactive business units in one place with additional new releases encompassing the WMS Colossal Jackpots series including the Lunaris and Open Kimono base games.

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& City News

Business GTECH/IGT

PENN NATIONAL

GTech in talks to purchase IGT

Cordish and Penn National join NY casino race he Cordish Companies and Penn National Gaming have formally filed their application for a gaming licence in the Hudson Valley-Catskills Region in the state of New York. The application to develop the $750m (E550m) Live! Hotel and Casino New York consists of well over a thousand pages detailing finances and capital structure, design of the facility, amenities, sustainability, responsible gaming, and workforce development, among many other details. “Our team has worked tirelessly for the last three months to develop the best project for the Hudson ValleyCatskills Region,” said David Cordish, chairman of The Cordish Companies. “No other applicant can match our comprehensive plan to maximize revenue and jobs in the state of New York while simultaneously empowering the

Tech, the world lottery operator, gaming equipment manufacturer and systems developer, could soon be further bolstering its presence in the casino slot machine segment, after the group announced that it is in preliminary discussions to purchase Las Vegas-based International Game Technology (IGT). GTech is responsible for 63 per cent of the world’s lottery business, including the Italian National Lottery and US state lotteries in Indiana and Illinois. Although it attributed no monetary value to the discussed acquisition of IGT, it has hired a team of advisers to help it negotiate a deal. “GTech is engaged in prelimi-

nary exploratory discussions as part of a process regarding a potential transaction with IGT [and] has engaged advisors to assist it in exploring this potential transaction,” read a short statement from GTech in June. For its part, IGT is understood to be seeking a buyer after recent weak demands in the gaming market saw its shares depreciate by almost a third. The firm is reportedly drawing interest from a three other firms. “IGT regularly considers and on occasion explores a broad range of strategic alternatives including but not limited to business combinations, changes to our capital structure and adjustments to our

portfolio of businesses with the goal of maximising shareholder value,” read a statement from IGT. “The IGT board of directors and senior management are currently engaged in such an exploration but no decisions have been made by the board regarding any particular alternative available to the company and there can be no assurances that any transaction or other strategic change will be entered into as a result of the current exploration of alternatives. “IGT does not intend to discuss or disclose developments with respect to this general subject unless and until the board has approved a definitive course of action.”

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT GROUP

Caesars submits application to develop Caesars New York

aesars Acquisition Company (CACQ) and Caesars Entertainment Corporation (CEC) have announced the proposed development of Caesars New York, an $880m (E645m) luxury casino resort in Woodbury, New York. The companies have submitted an application to the New York State Gaming Facility Location Board for a gaming licence, which will be managed and operated by Caesars Entertainment and its affiliates. Situated in the heart of the Hudson Valley, approximately 50 miles from New York City, the proposed project will be a sustainably designed, contemporary structure that complements the region’s natural surroundings to create a world-class entertainment retreat. The resort is projected to attract more than 10m visi-

36 | casinoreview July 2014

tors a year, making it a strong economic engine for the State of New York, Orange County and Woodbury. CEC said it would work closely with other businesses in the state to maximise the economic development opportunity in the region as outlined in the Gaming Act. The proposed resort, situated on a wooded 115acre site in Woodbury, will include approximately 300 luxury hotel rooms, suites and villas, 2,560 state-ofthe-art slot machines, 190 table games and 50 poker tables. The poker room will carry the World Series of Poker brand and become a leading East Coast home to the WSOP and its events, many of which are broadcast on ESPN. Caesars New York will also include a flexible entertainment space, ideally suited for business meetings, celebrations, entertainment and WSOP circuit events. “We have a tremendous opportunity to bring the Caesars brand to New York State and create a worldclass entertainment facility, adding a new destination the Total Rewards loyalty network and attracting visitors from throughout the region and around the world,” said Gary Loveman, chairman and chief executive officer of Caesars Entertainment. “If we are successful in winning a licence, Caesars New York will create thousands of jobs and become an engine for economic growth in the area.

region to grow exponentially for years to come.” Cordish and Penn National’s application includes the creation of a unique Angel Incubator - H2V2 - nonprofit organisation to attract new or existing out-of-state manufacturing, computer science, and research businesses to the Hudson ValleyCatskills Region. Cordish and Penn National will fund H2V2 with a $1.5m (E1.1m) annual grant in perpetuity and will include board representatives from New York-based Universities and Community Colleges in one or more of the three business areas to judge applicants and assist grant recipients in the development and operations of their businesses. Live! Hotel & Casino New York will include an upscale boutique hotel with over 300 rooms and luxury suites; a destination spa and fitness centre; over 3,000 slot machines; more than 250 live table games, including poker; several marquee restaurants; and well as a live entertainment venue and a spacious conference centre.

CR141-p36-38-Business_Coinslot NEW 09/07/2014 14:14 Page 2

CAESARS ENTERTAINMENT / ENTERTAINMENT GAMING ASIA / GROUPE PARTOUCHE / GTECH / IGT / PAF / PENN NATIONAL YXYXYXY BUSINESS NEWS: JW@SJC.CO.UK

ENTERTAINMENT GAMING ASIA

Entertainment Gaming offloads Cambodian casino EAG’s Cambodian operation on the border with Thailand has struggled since opening in May 2012 and has now been sold to a local entrepreneur for $500,000. ntertainment Gaming Asia (EGA) has agreed to sell its struggling Dreamworld Pailin regional casino in Cambodia to local entrepreneur Ban Kea for $500,000 (E366,000). The company opened the venue on the Thailand border through its Dreamworld Leisure subsidiary in May 2012 but the property has struggled recently due to an inability to secure a long-term third-party table game operator, low levels of player traffic and local political unrest. “After careful evaluation of all options, on June 20, 2014, the company entered into an agreement to sell 100 per cent of the issued shares of Dreamworld

Leisure to the purchaser,” EGA stated. “The sale includes all assets of Dreamworld Leisure with the exception of all electronic gaming machines, certain surveillance equipment and other assets excluded in the agreement and prohibits any use of the Dreamworld brand name by the purchaser.” EGA. The operator, which has offices in Chicago, Hong Kong and Manila due to receive approximately $100,000 (E73,000) of the purchase price up front followed by 16 monthly instalments each worth $25,000 (E18,000). “As previously reported, the company recorded an impairment charge of approximately

$2.5m as of December 31, 2013, related to Dreamworld Pailin,” EGA said. “The impairment charge represented the entire capital expenditure incurred for the property as of December 31, 2013, with the exception of those assets that the company believes could be redeployed to other existing properties.” EGA had previously released its financial results for the first three months of the year showing a 29 per cent decrease year-onyear in overall consolidated revenues to $4.9m (E3.5m). First-quarter revenues from its gaming operations were lower by 25 per cent year-on-year at $4.1m (E3m) while the $3.9m (E2.8m) it

took in from slots was 12 per cent less than for the same period in 2013. Dreamworld Pailin contributed $216,000 (E158,000) in gaming revenues during the first quarter of 2014, which compared with $1.1m (E805,946) for the corresponding three months last year, while the firm saw revenues from its gaming products fall by 43 per cent year-on-year to $811,000 (E594,000). All of this left Entertainment Gaming Asia with first-quarter adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation of $862,000 (E632,000), a reduction of 54.6 per cent yearon-year, with its net loss now

standing at $1m (E733,000). “The decrease in gaming operations revenue for the first quarter of 2014 was largely due to the decline in revenue from Dreamworld Pailin,” stated Clarence Chung, chairman and CEO of EGA. “We remain committed to our gaming development strategy and are actively seeking new projects in Indochina and other growing gaming markets in Asia that have the potential to drive meaningful long-term growth for the company. We seek to leverage our established presence and relationships to capitalise on growth opportunities in our target markets.”

GROUPE PARTOUCHE

PAF

Q2 revenues down for Partouche

PAF director standing down

roupe Partouche, the French leisure conglomerate with interests in casinos, hotels, restaurants and spas, has reported a 7.4 per cent drop in second quarter revenues to E96.4m.

The group, which is in the process of implementing a large-scale divesture programme, said analysis of the quarterly results to April 30 must take into account the disposal of assets worth E57m

since the beginning of the year. This includes the sale of three casinos: Grand Casino Knokke, Grand Casino de Dinant and Casino Hauteville. In June, Partouche announced it was sell-

ing the Hôtel International de Lyon for E25m. Under the terms of the company’s draft plan, 50 per cent of the net proceeds of all of the group’s asset sales will go towards repayments of a syndicated loan.

innish gaming operator Ålands Penningautomatförening (PAF) has begun the search for a new director for its online casino operation after Anders Wiklund announced that he would be leaving in September. Wiklund has spent eight years at PAF, which is licensed by the autonomous Aland Islands in the Baltic Sea, and has provided gaming services to international cruise ship and ferry operators since 1974. PAF’s seaborne operation encompasses some 1,700 slot machines and 40 gaming tables spread across 28 vessels sailing nine Baltic routes, while 2010 saw it inaugurate a land-based casino in the Aland capital, Mariehamn,

offering regular poker tournaments. “PAF has had an impressive journey and I am extremely proud of what we have accomplished both when it comes to responsible gaming, how we work, our focus on the personnel in the organisation and, in the end, the profits this has all generated for the public good.”

July 2014 casinoreview

| 37

CR141-p36-38-Business_Coinslot NEW 10/07/2014 17:36 Page 3

AMAYA GAMING GROUP / GAUSELMANN GROUP / TRANSWORLD CORPORATION

& City News

Business

SUPPLIER NEWS: JW@SJC.CO.UK

AMAYA GAMING GROUP

GAUSELMANN GROUP

Gauselmann continues growth path espite difficult political landscape that continues to hinder the growth of the German gaming industry, Gauselmann Group has reported revenues of E1.85bn in 2013, up 3.4 per cent on the E1.79bn in 2012. “In view of the numerous political challenges from the communal level to the federal level that greatly affect the business results in Germany, we are satisfied with this result as we began focusing on international business at the right time,” stated Gauselmann founder and CEO, Paul Gauselmann. Between fiscal 2012 and 2013, the number of people employed by the Espelkamp-based company employees rose by 1,757 to 8,161. Gauselmann made investments amounting to approximately E214m in 2013 – the majority of which was in research

In se arch of a soluti on: Paul Gauselmann

and development. According to the group, the basis for its core, 60year-old business of commercial gaming machines with low stakes and prizes in Germany has been the country’s “reasonable legal parameters”, which are now threatened with being “thrown out of joint” through the new laws and regulations. Gauselmann said the current legal situation could result in commercial

gaming in Germany being eradicated in 2017 - if jurisdiction or political reason does not prevent this resulting in the loss of over 50 per cent of the current 70,000 industry employees. “The industry is fighting united together against the demands from the state that has initiated the corresponding laws as it and jurists doubt their constitutionality,” the group stated. “On the one hand lawsuits, on the other

TRANSWORLD CORPORATION

TransWorld posts quarterly advances ransWorld Corporation, a hotel and casino operator, has released its financial results for the first quarter of 2014, showing that its total revenues for the three-month period increased by 10.8 per cent year-on-year to reach $9.1m (E6.68m). Through its American Chance Casinos subsidiary New York-based TransWorld operates the Americanathemed Ceska Kubice, Route 59 and

38 | casinoreview July 2014

Route 55 casinos in the Czech Republic near to the borders with Germany and Austria, and revealed that overall first-quarter gaming attendance at the venues rose by 9.1 per cent when compared with the same period in 2013 and led to a 7.8 per cent boost in total live game drop. In addition, TransWorld declared that room occupancy at its inaugural four-star Hotel Savannah in the Czech town of Znojmo improved by 0.6 per

hand, negotiations with voluntary offers – such as all arcades being certified are underway.” Gauselmann said: “The goal must be to find a solution that enables the many millions of players in Germany to continually enjoy attractive, regulated and value-for-money gaming and at the same time to offer qualified responsible gaming and furthermore secure an economic livelihood for the operators.” Due to the situation in the German market, the Gauselmann Group is strongly pushing the new business divisions of sports betting and online gaming, as well as the expansion of its own games, gaming machines and arcades outside of its home country. Accordingly, international business further increased in 2013, making up over 40 per cent of total turnover.

cent year-on-year for the initial three months of 2014, while its overall income before foreign income taxes swelled 62.4 per cent to $716,000 (E525,709). All of these saw TransWorld report first-quarter earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation of $1.1m (E807,700), which represented a 30.3 per cent advance year-on-year, while net income improved by a massive 81 percent to reach $485,000 (E356,102). “TransWorld Corporation had a strong first quarter [as] we saw double-digit increases in revenues and net income,” said Rami Ramadan, CEO for TransWorld. “This was in part due to an unseasonably mild winter. Also during the quarter, we launched a number of new promotional events. These events featured live entertainment and raffle games and were met by an overwhelming level of success that resulted in record-setting revenue days during the quarter. “We are strongly encouraged by our first quarter results and are optimistic that this momentum will continue for the remainder of the year.”

Amaya scoops up leading online poker platforms

maya Gaming Group has acquired Oldford Group - the owner and operator of the PokerStars and Full Tilt Poker brands - for $4.9bn (E3.6bn). The transaction has created the world’s largest publicly-listed online gaming company, as the leading poker brands join Amaya’s existing portfolio of B2B casino and lottery gaming solutions. PokerStars and Full Tilt Poker collectively have more than 85m registered players, and Amaya said it expects to achieve EBITDA of up to $640m (E470m) this year. The transaction combines complementary businesses with minimal

overlap: Isle of Man-headquartered Rational Group’s B2C poker business including PokerStars, Full Tilt Poker, live poker tours and events, and online and TV poker programming; and Montreal-headquartered Amaya’s B2B interactive and physical casino and lottery gaming solutions.” It is thought the transaction will expedite the entry of PokerStars and Full Tilt Poker into regulated markets in which Amaya already holds a footprint, particularly the US. Additionally, Amaya will provide an extensive selection of its online casino games to expand the nascent Full Tilt Poker casino platform.

GAMEACCOUNT NETWORK

GameAccount unveil new commercial team

ameAccount Network has underlined its ambitious growth plans by installing a new commercial team which combines a strong academic background with experience gained from both within and outside the gaming sector. Led by commercial director Daniel Lindsay, who has over 19 years gaming experience with companies including TCS John Huxley and Aristocrat Leisure Limited, the new team comprises; Sara Di Finizio (country manager Italy), alongside commercial managers Federica Faggiano and Camilla Folkeson. Lindsay said: “We have recruited from a variety of backgounds in order to achieve a complementary balance of

experience and skill sets. Sara Di Finizio, our country manager Italy has a background in technology and marketing and is a graduate in Marketing Communications working from Rome. “Federica is responsible for managing existing regulated .com accounts and ensuring our operating partners can deploy the very latest range of content from the extensive list of slot providers in the GameAccount portfolio. “Camilla will drive overall business development outside of North America including the roll out of GameAccount’s unique Simulated Gaming products to land based operators. She joins from a Swedish eGaming operator where she had overall responsibility for marketing.”

Whether your market is low stake high volume gaming, remote, land-based casinos, bingo, betting or amusements there’s only one publishing house that’s really connected. The publishing division of GB Media is responsible for the award winning titles International Casino Review, Betting Business interactive and Coinslot, as well as the ofﬁcial ICE catalogue. For a unique window on the world of gaming, simply contact us on +44 (0) 1204 396 397 or email us at jsullivan@gbmedia.eu.

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CR141-p40-Sectors_Coinslot NEW 09/07/2014 11:09 Page 1

Sectors

APPOINTMENTS / HEALTH & SAFETY / LOTTERIES / MONITORING / ONLINE GAMING / TESTING LABS / TRADE ASSOCIATIONS

LISTINGS

& Services LOTTERIES

Gtech extends West Virginia Lottery contract

lobal gaming operator and technology provider GTech has signed a two-year contract renewal with the West Virginia Lottery that is expected to be worth some $20m (E16.6m). The new arrangement begins on June 28 and will see GTech continue to operate and maintain the West Virginia Lottery’s existing systems and terminals while also delivering additional self-service products. GTech has been the lottery technology and services provider in West Virginia since 2009 and is intends to continue operating from a primary data centre in Charleston handling field services and hotline management alongside instantticket telemarketing, warehousing and distribution.

MONITORING Scientific Games inks SGVideo deal

cientific Games Corporation has signed a 10-year contract to supply the Independent Gaming Corporation Limited of South Australia with its SGVideo central monitoring and control system. A successor to the Aegis video system and unique in that it supports both G2S and QCOM communication protocols, SGVideo will monitor approximately 12,500 gaming machines in more than 550 locations throughout South Australia.

ONLINE GAMING Study reveals New Jersey differences

arket research firm Commercial Intelligence has conducted a study revealing that promotions tied to land-based casinos have been the most effective incentives for online players in New Jersey. The Consumer Insight Group, which consists of experts brought together for the upcoming Global iGaming Summit and Expo (GiGse) in San Francisco, stated that the findings effectively demonstrate how different the newly regulated iGaming market in the US is from its European counterparts.

APPOINTMENTS Gauselmann hires Alexander Martin

aming machine developer Gauselmann has hired Alexander Martin, previously a management consultant at AT Kearny in Dusseldorf, to serve as the direc-

40 | casinoreview July 2014

SECTOR NEWS: JW@SJC.CO.UK

tor for its new media segment. While admitting that new media will never replace terrestrial gaming in arcades and pubs, Gauselmann stated that this new business segment belongs to the future. “We made the decision to create a separate management board position here due to the continually increasing importance of Internet gaming in society and also within the company,” said Paul Gauselmann, chairman for Espelkamp-based Gauselmann.

Cecchini joins Betware

etware, the interactive gaming solutions developer that was acquired by Novomatic last year, has strengthened its commercial team with the appointment of lottery veteran Frank Cecchini as chief commercial officer. Cecchini, who has over 14 year of experience in the lottery sector, will be responsible for the sales, marketing and account management strategy of the company. Commenting on the appointment, Stefan Hrafnkelsson, Betware CEO, said: “Frank joins us at a very exciting time. After finalising the acquisition process, together with our new owners Novomatic, Betware now focuses on a complete 360-degree solution for lotteries.”

TRADE ASSOCIATIONS GSA opens new office in Brussels

s part of its global collaboration initiative in the creation of standards for the gaming industry, The Gaming Standards Association (GSA) has established a satellite office in Brussels, Belgium. “Work in the creation of GSA’s Online Gaming Standards is progressing at a fast pace, and Europe has been a leader in the adoption of regulation for online gambling and betting,” the association stated. “With the establishment of an office in Europe, GSA will be working and consulting with all stakeholders from both the regulatory and policy domain as well as the industry.”

HEALTH & SAFETY Galaxy Macau signs occupational safety charter

alaxy Macau, the flagship property of Galaxy Entertainment Group (GEG), has reinforced its effort to promote workplace safety by signing the Macau Occupational Safety and Health Charter. The charter was signed by Chee Pong Chan, senior vice president of facilities management for the Cotai resort, and Michelle Lam, assistant manager of human resources and administration. The purpose of the Macau Occupational Safety and Health Charter is to encourage bilateral co-operation between the management and employees to maintain a safe and healthy workplace through a comprehensive safety management system. “The hospitality industry is one of the most important sectors in Macau,” said Wong Chi Hong, director of Macau’s Labour Affairs Bureau. “Its active involvement in promoting occupational safety will bring positive influence not only to the entire tourism industry but also to other commercial sectors.”

TESTING LABS GLI receives Slovenia approval

aming Laboratories International (GLI) subsidiary, GLI Europe,has received the necessary approvals to test games for use in Slovenia. The Ministry of Finance appointed GLI as “an institution for issuing gaming device test reports for the jurisdiction of Slovenia”, which marks the first time a foreign company has been permitted to provide such services in the country. A market leader in Europe where it has offices in Austria, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland and Spain, GLI serves regulators, suppliers and operators in 455 jurisdictions and provides land-based and online gaming testing and consulting services. “This has been a strategic project allowing GLI to issue gaming device test reports directly to the regulator for this market, saving time and cost to the client, while being able to provide onsite services within Slovenia,” said Martin Britton (pictured), managing director of GLI Europe. “It is a great achievement for GLI, which also benefits our clients. We are thankful to the Ministry for the trust it has placed in GLI.”

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CR141-p42-People_Coinslot NEW 09/07/2014 10:57 Page 1

People

IGT

& Companies

IGT

C At G2E Asia 2014, James Walker caught up with Eric Tom, executive vice president of global sales for IGT, who discussed the group’s current strategy in Asia. 42 | casinoreview July 2014

PEOPLE NEWS: JW@SJC.CO.UK

‘Asia represents a wonderful opportunity’ asino Review: We recently spoke to Sabby Gill, senior vice president of international sales at IGT, who outlined your company’s strategy in Europe. Could you give us a run down of your current approach in Asia? How important is the market for IGT? Eric Tom: Of all the international markets, the growth markets are clearly in Asia and Latin America. When we look at growth, the first thing we do is take a map of the world. We map the disposable income in the middle class, and then you overlay on top of that map a propensity to gamble. We then overlay a third factor, which is willingness for the government to regulate and enforce regulation. When you consider these three factors, Asia is terrific, as you have that natural or growing wealth in the middleincome class. Asia represents a wonderful opportunity over the next six or seven years. CR: How important has the Singapore model been for gaming in Asia? ET: Singapore created a model that allowed the country’s government to take advantage of all the inbound tourism that they created through the casinos. What’s interesting about the Singapore model is that it really was more of a destination resort model – it wasn’t just about gambling, but the entire experience. Gaming, however, is what creates the financial structure to allow such incredible facilities like Marina Bay Sands or Resorts World Sentosa to be built. Gaming increases the feasibility

of destination resorts, and many other markets in Asia are trying to follow this model. CR: In terms of game development, in Europe many OEMs have a twopronged strategy, developing both licensed and entertainment-based games along with high volatility slots. Would you agree that the trend in Asia is towards the latter of these two? ET: Without a doubt. This is a gambler’s market. Asia hasn’t really evolved its entertainment market yet. It’s about winning and losing at the slot machine, as opposed to being entertained for an extended period of time. It’s interesting to note that the US market evolved from what was once a gamblers market to entertainment, but is actually gradually moving back again. In Asia, however, people are clearly here to gamble. That’s why the volatility is important. CR: Do you think there is a truly universal brand out there that could appeal to people around the world and resonates with everyone? ET: We’re trying different brands. We have a brand coming out called Tokidoki, which has a cult following of sorts and has global appeal. What’s interesting about Asian markets is that you can create your own brand – it doesn’t necessarily need to be a recognisable brand. You just need to look at the most popular games: these are brands that have developed and grown on the back of their intrinsic n co popularity, as opposed to sumers’ predisposed orientation to it.

BIOGRAPHY: ERIC TOM

ric Tom has served as executive vice president of global sales for IGT since June 2012. From July 2009 to June 2012, he held various positions at the company, including executive vice president of North America sales and global marketing (2009-2010), chief operating officer (2010-2011) and executive vice president of North America sales and global services (2011-2012). Prior to joining IGT, from 20072009 Tom was vice president, corporate and business development and strategic alliances of Force10 Networks, a global technology company. Before this, he held various positions at Broadband Interactive TV, Qwest Communications, and Sprint Corporation. Tom earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of Hawaii and a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of California Berkeley, with an emphasis on corporate finance.

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13.8% Suppliers

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CR141-p46-47-events_Coinslot NEW 09/07/2014 10:43 Page 1

Events

& Diary

MACAO GAMING SHOW

T GIGSE

MGS makes major investment in international marketing he team behind November’s Macao Gaming Show (MGS is investing in a multi-media marketing campaign to take its ‘By Asia for the world’ message to an international audience of gaming influencers. As part of the dual Chinese and English language drive, over 100 MGS

who has an interest in the Asian gaming sector knows about the show, and has all the necessary tools and information to be able to attend.” Wong added: “The registration data that we have processed since registration opened confirms a very high proportion of repeat visitors. Our aim is to grow the attendance by adding new first-time visitors to this very healthy base while maintaining a similar if not higher level of seniority as in 2013 when 83 percent of visitors were either decision-makers or had direct input to purchasing decisions. “Not only does MGS provide a comprehensive window on the entire gaming industry, it is also the only show that is truly representative of the Asian gaming industry. I am delighted that so many industry decision-makers, purchasers and influencers will be joining us at the Venetian Macao in November.” MGS 2014 takes place at the Venetian Macao on November 18-20.

High-profile speakers to take GiGse podium he organisers of July’s GiGse, have confirmed that 45 expert industry speakers will be appearing exclusively at the online gaming event, which takes place at the Hyatt Regency in San Francisco on July 14-15. The exclusive line-up of thought leaders which includes representatives from Pennsylvania House of Representatives, Atari, Morongo Band of Mission Indians, Nevada Senate, GSN Digital, National Council of Legislators from Gaming States and Partypoker - will debate key industry issues including the domino effect in relation to state by state regulation of iGaming, a reevaluation of the business model based on eight months data and experience in NJ and how social casino can be integrated as part of an RMG strategy. Ewa Bakun, head of gaming content for Clarion Events, said: “We have addressed the very real issue of speaker fatigue by hand-picking a line-up of thought leaders who have chosen to make their first iGaming appearance of the year and to share their knowledge at GiGse. “For attendees this means that the content is fresh, the thinking original and the

46 | casinoreview July 2014

print and online adverts will be appearing across 25 gaming media channels from now until November. This is being supplemented by MGS Macau taxi advertising, MGS television ad slots, and visits by the senior marketing team to major international gaming exhibitions such as GTI Taiwan expo and conferences including Japan Gaming Congress (JGC) in Tokyo. Discussing the campaign, Marina Wong, general manager and event director at MGS, said: “The marketing campaign, which is significantly bigger than in 2013, plus the appointment of world class partner organisations represents another sign of our commitment to establish Macao Gaming Show as the most important exhibition in Asia. “We are supporting the Macao Gaming Show with an unprecedented level of investment in marketing and advertising in order to build on the success achieved in our debut year. Our aim is to ensure that every buyer

insights they will deliver both powerful and valuable. Industry professionals attend events to learn from original thinking delivered by experts, which is exactly what they will experience at GiGse 2014. “I am delighted to welcome such an ‘A list’ of speakers including Norbert Teufelberger, Governor Ed Rendell, Governor Robert Miller, Susan Hensel and Representative Jim Waldman who have chosen to make their first iGaming appearance of 2014 at GiGse. I believe their decision to use GiGse as their platform of choice speaks volumes for the integrity and the reputation enjoyed by the brand as North America’s market leading event.” Bakun added: “GiGse is a powerful and business focused coming together of influencers and doers in North American iGaming. It provides a unique opportunity to shake hands and build strategic partnerships with a wide spectrum of stakeholders including regulators, legislators, bricks and mortar casinos, online operators, technology suppliers, social gaming developers, tribes and start-ups, in the process delivering invaluable, competitive and consumer insights to this hugely important market.”

Governor Robert Miller

CR141-p46-47-events_Coinslot NEW 09/07/2014 10:48 Page 2

EIG / ENADA ROME / GIGSE / MACAO GAMING SHOW YXYXYXY

Casino Review is the premier b2b publication for the international casino and gaming industry. With a combined print and digital circulation in excess of 14,000 per month, Casino Review has become the first choice read of casino operators, legislators and senior casino executives. Sign up for your free digital version at www.casinoreview-online.com corporation ltd

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ENADA ROME

Enada Rome confirms its October schedule With Enada Rome set to return in October, and the event organisers have received plaudits from the country’s amusement trade association, SAPAR. he 42nd edition of Enada Rome will be held from October 15-17 at the Italian capital’s Fiera di Roma expo centre. The event is set to bring the latest in gaming, video lottery terminals and amusements to Italy, with tickets now on sale to all industry representatives. Enada organisers Rimini Fiera recently hosted the Assembly of the Delegate Members of SAPAR - Italy’s national association of public recreational attraction equipment.

SAPAR chairman Raffaele Curcio said he was very satisfied with the participation in the assembly. “It is an excellent omen, considering the future of the sector, which is awaiting encouraging responses on behalf of the current government,” Curcio said. “In fact, the delicate Article 14 of the Fiscal Bill which foresees important intervention by the executive in the gaming sector is at the approval stage.” According to SAPAR’s national secretary, Corrado Luca Bianca, Enada remains a vital outlet for the country’s gaming industry. “[It is] an indispensable expo for

the sector, and one which I obviously hope will grow increasingly the in the future, as it is a real driving force for our businesses.” Rimini Fiera’s business unit manager, Simone Castelli, added: “Enada Rome will attract all the sector’s key players, reconfirming its role as a fundamental reference point for the business of all Italian and foreign gaming trade members, as well as the opportunity for networking on the hottest issues, once more confirming its leadership in the trade.”

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EXHIBITIONS

JULY 2014

EiG increasing its international focus

8-10 World Gaming Executive Summit W Hotel, Barcelona, Spain http://www.terrapinn.com/conference/wges 14-16 Global iGaming Summit & Expo (GiGse) Hyatt Regency, San Francisco, US www.gigse.com

AUGUST 2014 12-14 Australasian Gaming Expo Sydney Exhibition Centre, Sydney, Australia www.austgamingexpo.com

SEPTEMBER 2014 30-2 G2E 2014 Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Las Vegas, US www.globalgamingexpo.com

OCTOBER 2014 6-8 BiG Africa Summit The Emperors Palace, Johannesburg, South Africa www.bigafricasummit.com 20-21 Eastern European Gaming Summit (EEGS) Inter Expo Centre, Sofia, Bulgaria www.eegamingsummit.com 21-22 Balkan Entertainment & Gaming Expo (BEGE) Inter Expo Centre, Sofia, Bulgaria www.balkangamingexpo.com

NOVEMBER 2014 18-20 Macao Gaming Show 2014 Venetian Macao, Macao, China www.macaogamingshow.com

Don Daglow and Scott Rigby have been confirmed as guest editors due to lead EiG’s new twin-track Outside-In initiative.

larion Events has announced that October’s EiG is set to have a more international focus than at any other time in its history thanks, in part, to the new Outside-In initiative. Scheduled to take place at the Arena Berlin, Germany, from October 21-23, EiG 2014 will represent the 13th edition of the global gaming conference and exhibition that has previously been staged in some of the world’s most beautiful cities including Barcelona, Copenhagen and Milan.

“EiG’s origins were in Europe but the dynamics of this technology-driven sector have changed dramatically,” said Jo Mayer, EiG marketing director of Clarion Events. “EiG is no longer defined by geographical region or location. EiG is about thinking, exploring, meeting and engaging without frontiers. It is an idiosyncratic gaming space where liberated minds come together from each and every location in order to meet and think.”

New for 2014, the Outside-In twintrack conferences will see a group of guest editors drawn from outside the gaming industry analyse technology opportunities from very different perspectives. The Think 2014 session is to deal with the here and now while its Think 2024 counterpart will encourage delegates to liberate their minds and debate how gaming could look in ten years. Acclaimed author and player psychologist Scott Rigby will head Outside-In proceedings on October 21 from 12:40 to 15:00 while accomplished video gaming veteran Don Daglow is to lead the next day’s Think 2024 session from 10:40 to 12:30. In his talk, Rigby is due to delve into the distinction between ‘intrinsic’ and ‘extrinsic’ motivations, which are increasingly a focus of conversation and strategy, and assist delegates in understanding the building blocks of motivation in a way that is clear, accurate and practically useful to building game experiences. July 2014 casinoreview

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