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  • Virginia Casino Revenue Surges 36% in January as Caesars Virginia Leads the Charge

    Virginia Casino Revenue Surges 36% in January as Caesars Virginia Leads the Charge

    Virginia’s casino industry is kicking off 2025 on a high note. The state’s three land-based casinos pulled in a combined $72.3 million in total gaming revenue for January—an impressive 36% jump from the $52.8 million recorded in January 2024, according to the latest Virginia Lottery report.

    The driving force behind this surge? Caesars Virginia in Danville, which has firmly established itself as the market leader after settling into its permanent location.

    Caesars Virginia Dominates with Explosive Growth

    Caesars Virginia came out swinging in its first full month at its permanent site, delivering numbers that far outpaced the competition. The casino’s 1,479 slot machines raked in $21.1 million in adjusted gaming revenue (AGR), marking a staggering 73.2% increase over the same period last year.

    Table games weren’t far behind. The casino’s 137 tables brought in $7.1 million, a strong 46.6% year-over-year increase. Put together, Caesars Virginia posted a total AGR of $28.5 million for the month—an impressive 65.7% surge from January 2024.

    Hard Rock Bristol Sees Strong Gains

    Not to be outdone, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol also reported significant growth. The property’s AGR climbed 53.3% compared to last year, fueled by strong performances across both slot machines and table games.

    • Slot revenue soared 52.9%, reaching $15.1 million.
    • Table game revenue saw an even bigger jump, rising 54.9% to $3.3 million.

    Hard Rock Bristol continues to solidify its position in Virginia’s casino landscape, drawing steady interest from players and boosting tax contributions.

    Rivers Casino Portsmouth Posts Modest Growth

    While Rivers Casino Portsmouth didn’t see the same explosive gains as its competitors, it still posted a respectable 7.2% year-over-year increase in AGR. The casino brought in $25.2 million for the month, proving it remains a major player in the market.

    Tax Contributions and Community Impact

    With casino revenue climbing, tax collections followed suit. Virginia Lottery officials reported that the state pulled in over $13 million in tax revenue from casino operations in January. Here’s where the money went:

    Fund Allocation
    Problem Gambling Treatment and Support Fund $100,000+
    Family and Children’s Trust Fund $26,000
    Host Cities (combined) $4.3 million
    Gaming Proceeds Fund $8.5 million

    These contributions help support gambling addiction treatment programs, local governments, and state initiatives. With revenues trending upward, Virginia can expect even greater tax contributions in the months ahead.

    Future Casino Expansion Faces Uncertainty

    Virginia’s casino industry might be on the verge of further expansion—if lawmakers get on board. A proposal to bring a casino to Fairfax County had been under discussion, but momentum stalled when the Virginia House decided to table the bill.

    For now, it’s unclear if or when the measure will resurface. A casino in Northern Virginia could be a game-changer, but local opposition and political hurdles could keep the idea shelved for the foreseeable future.

  • Ransomware Attack Disrupts Sault Tribe’s Casinos in Michigan, Exposing Critical Data

    Ransomware Attack Disrupts Sault Tribe’s Casinos in Michigan, Exposing Critical Data

    A ransomware attack on February 9 has thrown the operations of casinos, government services, and telecommunications under the control of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians into disarray. The cyberattack, allegedly orchestrated by the notorious hacking group RansomHub, has raised alarm bells across Michigan, as the group claims to have stolen over 119 GB of sensitive data.

    Casino Shutdowns and Data Theft: The Immediate Impact

    In what seems to be a coordinated assault on the tribe’s digital infrastructure, RansomHub’s attack has caused significant disruptions to operations at Kewadin Casinos, tribal government buildings, and related services. Among the stolen files are more than half a million documents, including personal data, which the group claims to have leaked onto the dark web.

    Kewadin Casinos, a vital part of the tribe’s economy, has faced a complete shutdown of its gaming systems. This includes the suspension of slot machines, online gaming, and membership services—resulting in a severe impact on customer experience and revenue generation. But the financial fallout doesn’t stop there. Payment processing failures have left customers unable to make cashless transactions, further compounding the chaos.

    The attack has also affected customer service operations, leading to delays in reservations and membership services. For an institution heavily reliant on smooth customer interactions, this represents both a financial loss and a hit to its reputation.

    Despite the ongoing crisis, Sault Ste. Marie Tribal Chairman Austin Lowes addressed the tribe’s members, acknowledging the attack and expressing shared frustration with the interruption. “We understand and share in our community’s frustration with this attack and the interruptions it has caused,” Lowes said in a statement. The tribe, in collaboration with cybersecurity experts, has been actively working on restoring operations. However, progress has been slower than anticipated, and new phone lines have been set up to communicate with the affected community. It is expected that full recovery may take another week.

    RansomHub’s Allegations: A Critical Response

    The group behind the cyberattack, RansomHub, wasted no time in claiming responsibility. Not only did the group lock critical systems, but they also accused the tribe of negligence and a lack of response to their demands. According to RansomHub, they attempted to contact the tribe for a week before launching their attack, but received no reply. They have since posted a statement on their dark web leak site, which contains a detailed account of their activities.

    The hackers were quick to point out the tribe’s failure to act, specifically calling out their insurers—Corvus Insurance by Travelers, Crum & Forster Specialty Insurance Company, and Cowbell Cyber Risk Insurance—for not taking adequate steps to mitigate the damage. In fact, RansomHub claims that the lack of response only fueled their decision to escalate the attack.

    “Despite multiple attempts to reach out via email and phone, no response was received from the tribe’s Board of Directors,” RansomHub stated. “This is a blatant disregard for the personal data of their residents, customers, and employees.” The group has given the tribe until Wednesday to respond to their demands, threatening to release all stolen data if the tribe fails to comply.

    The Tribe’s Response and Cybersecurity Experts Weigh In

    Despite the ongoing challenges, the Sault Tribe has been proactive in addressing the cybersecurity breach. With the help of expert consultants, the tribe has been working to restore its services. The situation remains fluid, with significant progress still required before full operations can resume.

    The community is understandably upset, as the interruption has led to a temporary halt in business activities, and the stolen data has created concerns about privacy breaches. But cybersecurity experts are already using this incident as an example of how vulnerable even large organizations can be to well-coordinated cyberattacks.

    One major takeaway from the attack is the importance of regular data backups. Experts recommend that all businesses, particularly those with sensitive customer data, invest in secure, redundant backup systems. In addition, strong phishing awareness programs and multi-factor authentication (MFA) could have potentially mitigated the severity of the attack.

    For casinos and other industries dealing with high-volume transactions and sensitive information, downtime is costly—not only in terms of direct financial loss but also in reputational damage. Restoring the trust of customers, employees, and the public will be a long-term challenge.

    Experts also point to the need for comprehensive incident response plans, which can help mitigate the impact of such breaches and facilitate faster recovery.

    The Bigger Picture: A Growing Threat Landscape

    While the attack on the Sault Tribe has garnered attention, it is far from an isolated incident. Ransomware attacks have become a growing concern worldwide, with cybercriminal groups increasingly targeting institutions that provide essential services—like casinos and government buildings. In fact, the gaming industry, particularly, has emerged as a prime target for hackers, thanks to the vast sums of money circulating within these systems.

    In this context, the Sault Tribe’s experience is not just a cautionary tale—it’s a glimpse into the larger cyber threat landscape. Every industry, from healthcare to finance, is vulnerable. This attack serves as a reminder that no organization is immune from a well-organized ransomware campaign.

    The ongoing recovery efforts in Michigan will undoubtedly be scrutinized by both cybersecurity professionals and the general public. If there’s any silver lining to this unfortunate event, it’s that it will prompt many businesses and organizations to reassess their own cybersecurity measures before it’s too late.

  • Casinos Join Forces to Push Back Against Online Gaming Expansion

    Casinos Join Forces to Push Back Against Online Gaming Expansion

    A battle over the future of gambling in the U.S. is heating up. As more states consider legalizing online gaming and poker, a coalition of casino operators is pushing back hard. The newly formed National Association Against iGaming (NAAiG) argues that digital gambling threatens local economies, jobs, and tax revenues. Their latest study paints a bleak picture, warning of massive financial losses if iGaming continues to spread.

    Casino Operators Sound the Alarm

    Brick-and-mortar casinos have long been economic pillars in many states, providing jobs and contributing heavily to tax revenue. But according to NAAiG, legalizing iGaming threatens that balance. The group, which includes regional casino operators, claims online gambling cuts deeply into casino revenues.

    Their newly released study suggests that land-based casinos suffer an average 16% revenue drop when iGaming is introduced. This, they say, results in:

    • Widespread job losses
    • Reduced economic activity in local communities
    • Significant cuts in tax contributions that fund essential services

    Mark Stewart, Executive Vice President and general counsel for The Cordish Companies and a board member of NAAiG, is blunt about the risks. “iGaming’s unchecked access to gambling on cell phones is bad public policy that threatens local jobs and businesses and will cost states,” he said.

    The Numbers: Jobs, GDP, and Tax Revenue at Risk

    The NAAiG study delivers stark projections for several states currently considering iGaming expansion. By 2029, thousands of jobs could be lost across key markets:

    State Projected Job Losses Estimated GDP Reduction
    New York 4,921 Not specified
    Illinois 4,733 Not specified
    Ohio 2,818 $602 million
    Indiana Not specified $428 million
    Maryland Not specified $372 million
    Colorado Not specified $313 million

    Beyond job cuts, the report highlights that iGaming’s tax revenue gains are not as lucrative as they seem. Factoring in social costs—such as addiction treatment and increased problem gambling—the study claims that states could see net negative tax impacts rather than the expected windfall.

    The Divide: Online Gaming Advocates Fire Back

    Not everyone in the industry agrees with NAAiG’s conclusions. Major casino operators with a foothold in online gaming, including Caesars Entertainment, MGM Resorts, and Rush Street Interactive, argue that iGaming can boost overall gambling revenues.

    A separate study released in 2024 by iDEA Growth (iDevelopment and Economic Association) tells a different story. Conducted by Eilers & Krejcik Gaming (EKG), the research found that states with regulated iGaming saw an average quarterly revenue increase of 2.4% across six states.

    Jeff Ifrah, founder and general counsel of iDEA, strongly disputes NAAiG’s claims. “This study offers compelling evidence that online gambling is a catalyst for growth, not a competitor to land-based casinos,” he said.

    What’s Next? States Weigh Their Options

    With dueling studies and strong opinions on both sides, state lawmakers are left to decide which argument holds more weight. The debate over iGaming expansion is far from settled, and with billions of dollars at stake, both casino operators and policymakers will be watching closely.

    Some states, like Maryland, are in particularly tricky positions. While companies like Cordish oppose iGaming on principle, they have acknowledged they would seek a license if legalization happens. As Stewart put it, “We will do very well, but we think Maryland won’t do very well, and we know our employees won’t do very well, and that’s why we’re opposed to it.”

    Other major casino operators, like Monarch Casino and Churchill Downs Incorporated, have joined NAAiG in resisting online gambling expansion.

    The battle over iGaming is far from over, and with new legislative sessions underway across multiple states, the coming months could shape the industry’s future for years to come.

  • Police Arrest Man at Las Vegas Casino on Terrorism Charges

    Police Arrest Man at Las Vegas Casino on Terrorism Charges

  • Hawaii Lawmakers Shut Down Casino Gambling Proposal—For Now

    Hawaii Lawmakers Shut Down Casino Gambling Proposal—For Now

    Hawaii lawmakers have once again put a firm stop to any plans for casino gambling, shelving a proposal that would have introduced regulated casinos in the state. The bill, which sought to bring gaming to the upcoming Aloha Stadium Entertainment District, faced strong opposition and was ultimately scrapped.

    Senate Bill 893 Fails to Gain Support

    Senate Bill 893, which would have created a Hawaii Gaming Control Commission, was indefinitely deferred on Thursday. The move effectively ends any discussion of legalizing casino gambling in Hawaii—at least for now.

    The bill outlined plans to regulate gaming operations and impose a 15% wagering tax on gross receipts. However, it never gained serious traction among lawmakers.

    State Senator Lynn DeCoite, who announced the decision, made it clear that there was little appetite for casino gambling in Hawaii. “Casino gambling has not always been a favorite subject,” DeCoite said. “Regardless of if we flying to Vegas or flying to any other place, we’ve always had our challenges here in Hawaii.”

    Strong Opposition from Government Agencies

    The proposal faced stiff resistance from multiple agencies and organizations, further dooming its chances.

    • The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs opposed the bill, citing regulatory concerns.
    • The Department of the Attorney General raised legal and enforcement issues.
    • The Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney’s Office warned of potential crime and social issues tied to gambling.

    With such a broad coalition of opponents, the bill had little hope of moving forward.

    Applause Signals Relief from Opponents

    When the Senate Committee on Economic Development and Tourism made the decision to defer the bill indefinitely, the reaction in the room was telling. The announcement was met with applause, a clear sign of relief from those who had spoken out against the proposal.

    The move keeps Hawaii as one of only two states—alongside Utah—that do not permit any form of commercial gambling.

    A Long History of Gambling Rejections

    Hawaii has consistently resisted efforts to legalize gambling, despite frequent proposals over the years. The reasons for opposition vary:

    • Concerns over addiction and social harm.
    • The state’s tourism-based economy already thriving without gambling revenue.
    • Fear that casinos could bring organized crime.

    Yet, despite the state’s hardline stance, gambling remains a popular pastime for many residents. Hawaii has some of the highest per capita spending on Las Vegas trips in the nation, with thousands of locals flocking to Nevada casinos every year.

    What’s Next for Gambling in Hawaii?

    With this bill dead in the water, the question remains—will Hawaii ever legalize gambling?

    For now, the answer seems to be no. Lawmakers have consistently shown little interest in the idea, and the latest rejection reinforces that position. However, as financial pressures grow and the debate continues, future proposals are almost inevitable.

    For now, though, Hawaii’s strict stance on gambling remains unchanged.

  • GAN and Sega Sammy Extend Merger Deadline to Mid-2025 Amid Regulatory Delays

    GAN and Sega Sammy Extend Merger Deadline to Mid-2025 Amid Regulatory Delays

    The anticipated acquisition of GAN by Sega Sammy is now set for completion in mid-2025 after both companies amended their merger agreement. The extension gives them additional time to navigate regulatory approvals, pushing the deadline to May 31, 2025.

    New Timeline Gives More Breathing Room

    Sega Sammy’s acquisition of GAN was first announced in November 2023, with a deal valued at $107.6 million. The Japanese gaming giant agreed to purchase the online gambling technology provider at $1.97 per share. Originally, both parties aimed to close the transaction before the end of 2024.

    That target has now been revised. On February 7, GAN and Sega Sammy officially amended their agreement, extending the final termination date to May 31, 2025. If regulatory approvals are not secured by then, either party can walk away from the deal.

    One thing is clear—this delay isn’t about hesitation or second thoughts. Instead, it reflects the often-lengthy process of obtaining necessary approvals from gaming regulators.

    Regulatory Approvals Still in Progress

    Mergers in the gaming industry don’t move at lightning speed, and this deal is no exception. While GAN and Sega Sammy have already checked some key regulatory boxes, there’s still work to be done.

    A major milestone was reached in October 2024 when the Nevada Gaming Commission gave its approval. This came after an initial green light from the Nevada Gaming Control Board a month earlier. But Nevada isn’t the only jurisdiction that needs to sign off. Other regulatory bodies are still reviewing the deal, contributing to the timeline extension.

    GAN CEO Seamus McGill acknowledged the extended approval process but emphasized that progress is being made. “The parties continue to respond to regulatory requests. This process takes time, but we are making great progress and working with Sega Sammy in anticipation of a successful closing,” McGill said.

    What Happens After the Deal Closes?

    Once the merger is finalized, GAN will be absorbed into Sega Sammy Creation (SSC), a subsidiary of Sega Sammy Holdings that focuses on gaming technology for land-based casinos.

    This will mark a significant transition for GAN:

    • It will no longer operate as a publicly traded company.
    • Its ordinary shares will be delisted from the Nasdaq Capital Market.
    • It will be deregistered under U.S. securities laws.

    For Sega Sammy, this acquisition is a strategic step in expanding its footprint in the North American gaming market.

    North America Remains a Key Focus

    Sega Sammy has made no secret of its ambition to grow in the U.S. gaming sector. The company sees GAN’s technology and expertise as valuable assets in this expansion strategy.

    At the same time, GAN has faced challenges in the U.S. market. CEO Seamus McGill pointed to several factors, including:

    • The dominance of major players in the B2C online gaming space.
    • A slower-than-expected rollout of regulated online gambling in the U.S.
    • Changes to key customer contracts affecting revenue streams.

    With these hurdles in mind, McGill said the merger with Sega Sammy is a necessary move. “Market share concentration in the U.S. B2C space, a slower-than-expected adoption of regulated online gaming in the U.S., along with changes to key customer contracts, make the near-term operating environment challenging without ample capital resources,” he explained.

    He added that Sega Sammy has the financial strength to support GAN through these challenges, calling the deal a “value-maximizing path” for shareholders.

    Sega Sammy’s Growing Gaming Investments

    The GAN acquisition isn’t happening in isolation. It’s part of a broader investment strategy by Sega Sammy to expand its presence in the gaming sector.

    In July 2024, the company made another major move, acquiring online game developer Stakelogic for $143.2 million. This investment signaled a deeper push into digital gaming, complementing its existing focus on land-based casino technology.

    By acquiring GAN, Sega Sammy is reinforcing its position in the gambling technology market, particularly in North America. The extension to mid-2025 may not be ideal, but it ensures all regulatory hurdles are cleared before the deal is finalized.

  • Hard Rock Tejon Ramps Up Hiring with April Job Fair as Construction Moves Forward

    Hard Rock Tejon Ramps Up Hiring with April Job Fair as Construction Moves Forward

    California’s Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon is gearing up for a major hiring push, with a job and vendor fair set for April 4-5 at Bakersfield College. As construction progresses, the casino is looking to fill around 1,000 positions, marking a significant step toward its grand opening.

    A Big Hiring Wave for a Big Project

    Hard Rock Tejon isn’t just building a casino—it’s creating a massive entertainment destination. The next phase of construction includes a 400-room hotel, multiple dining options, and a live concert venue. With that kind of expansion, the company needs a large and diverse workforce to bring it all to life.

    Chris Kelley, President of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon, is urging people from all backgrounds to apply. “We hope that any folks that might be interested in working with us will come out and check us out,” he told BakersfieldNow.

    Who They’re Looking For

    The hiring team isn’t just seeking experienced casino workers. In fact, they’re open to all levels of experience. Hard Rock Tejon is emphasizing personal qualities over resumes, seeking:

    • Passionate and energetic individuals
    • Reliable team players
    • People looking for career growth within the organization

    The company is also offering executive roles, which can be found online at gotoworkhappy.com.

    Job Fair Details

    The event will be held at Bakersfield College, making it easy for local job seekers to stop by and apply in person. Attendees will have the chance to meet hiring managers, learn about job openings, and even explore vendor opportunities for those looking to do business with the casino.

    Hard Rock Tejon is expected to be a major economic driver for Kern County, creating not only jobs but also long-term business partnerships. Vendors and suppliers interested in working with the casino are encouraged to attend the fair as well.

    What This Means for Kern County

    Once open, Hard Rock Tejon will be the first resort hotel and casino in Kern County, a major milestone for the region. Beyond entertainment, it’s expected to bring in significant revenue and tourism.

    For job seekers, this is more than just a paycheck—it’s a chance to get in on the ground floor of a major hospitality and entertainment hub. For businesses, it’s an opportunity to partner with a high-profile brand known worldwide.

    The momentum is building, and for those interested in being part of Hard Rock Tejon’s future, April 4-5 could be a key date to mark on the calendar.

  • High 5 Games Ordered to Pay $25 Million in Landmark Social Casino Lawsuit

    High 5 Games Ordered to Pay $25 Million in Landmark Social Casino Lawsuit

  • Native American Tribes Expand Their Influence in Downtown Sacramento Real Estate

    Native American Tribes Expand Their Influence in Downtown Sacramento Real Estate

    Several Sacramento-area Native American tribes, long known for their success in casino gaming, are making significant moves in downtown real estate. Their latest investments mark a shift beyond gaming, positioning them as key players in urban development.

    “It’s not just about casinos anymore,” said Michael Ault, executive director of the Downtown Sacramento Partnership, as quoted by Sacramento Business Journal. “They see an opportunity to be part of the city’s growth.”

    Major Acquisitions Signal a Changing Landscape

    The United Auburn Indian Community (UAIC), which operates Thunder Valley Casino Resort, has been one of the most active tribes in downtown Sacramento’s property market. In 2019, UAIC purchased 300 Capitol Mall (Emerald Tower) for $127 million. At the time, the high-rise boasted a 92% occupancy rate, but as remote work gained traction, it has since fallen to 69%.

    Not stopping there, UAIC acquired 2700 J St. for $4 million last year, setting it aside for a cultural center. The tribe further strengthened its presence with a $17 million purchase of 301 Capitol Mall, a full city block in downtown. Development plans for the site are expected to be unveiled in early 2025.

    Wilton Rancheria, Sacramento’s newest tribal gaming player, is making perhaps the boldest real estate move yet. The tribe is in the final stages of securing 31 acres in the city’s massive Railyards redevelopment project. Their vision? A 12,000-seat soccer stadium and mixed-use development that will make Wilton Rancheria the majority owner of Sacramento Republic FC.

    “It made a lot of sense for us,” said Chris Franklin, Wilton Rancheria’s chief operating officer. “Gaming and entertainment go hand in hand, and we see this as an extension of what we’re already doing.”

    Expanding Beyond Downtown

    Tribal investments aren’t just limited to the urban core. Several tribes have been quietly expanding their land holdings across the region:

    • United Auburn Indian Community purchased 120 acres near Thunder Valley Casino in 2023.
    • Shingle Springs Band added land near Highway 50, developing a gas station and convenience store.
    • Wilton Rancheria is finalizing a deal to acquire 100 acres near Sky River Casino.

    For many tribes, these acquisitions are about more than business. They also serve as a way to reclaim ancestral land and ensure long-term economic sustainability.

    More Than Just a Real Estate Play

    While casinos have been economic engines for these tribes, diversification has become a priority.

    “As tribes grow their economy, the natural thing to do is diversify,” said Kristi Jackson of TFA Capital Partners, an advisory firm specializing in tribal finance. “Real estate provides stability, long-term revenue, and a different kind of return than gaming.”

    For some, that return comes through direct development—new buildings, businesses, and attractions. Others benefit from leasing agreements or tax revenue streams. Either way, the moves align with Sacramento’s broader transition from a government-dominated employment hub to a mixed-use district featuring housing, retail, hospitality, and entertainment.

    “Downtowns are changing,” said Ault. “This is a reflection of that shift.”

    What Comes Next?

    Wilton Rancheria’s Franklin hinted that these investments are just the beginning.

    “As we expand Sky River Casino and look at other opportunities, I think we’ll be talking again,” he said.

    With the pace of acquisitions and development accelerating, it’s clear that Sacramento’s tribal communities are thinking big—and downtown is at the center of it all.

  • UK Gambling Minister Visits London’s Historic Hippodrome Casino Amid Regulatory Talks

    UK Gambling Minister Visits London’s Historic Hippodrome Casino Amid Regulatory Talks