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  • Card Player Poker Tour Venetian Main Event Kicks Off With $1 Million Guarantee

    Card Player Poker Tour Venetian Main Event Kicks Off With $1 Million Guarantee

    Las Vegas is set for another high-stakes poker spectacle. The Venetian Poker Room, fresh off launching its state-of-the-art streaming studio, is gearing up for the Card Player Poker Tour (CPPT) Main Event. With a $1,600 buy-in and a guaranteed $1 million prize pool, the tournament kicks off on Feb. 12, drawing top poker talent from across the country.

    New Venetian Poker Studio Elevates the Experience

    The Venetian’s latest addition isn’t just another poker room. It’s a game-changer for live-streamed poker action. Venetian Poker Live, in partnership with PokerGO, now offers a fully dedicated space for broadcasting major poker events, cash games, and vlogging content.

    The debut of the studio featured two high-profile events, both guaranteeing a $1 million prize pool. The first, the Mid-States Poker Tour (MSPT) Venetian Poker Bowl, wrapped up on Feb. 10, attracting 892 entries and generating a $1,271,100 prize pool. In the end, Anthony Scarborough took home the top prize of $152,243.

    Now, all eyes turn to the CPPT Venetian Main Event, which runs from Feb. 12-16. It features three starting flights, beginning at 11:10 AM local time on Feb. 12-14. Survivors from those flights will return on Feb. 15 for Day 2, with the final table set for Feb. 16. The championship moment will be streamed live on a one-hour delay.

    A Growing Tournament Series With Millions Up for Grabs

    The CPPT Main Event is just one highlight of the 2025 Venetian DeepStack Extravaganza I festival. The broader festival, running from Feb. 3-23, boasts a total prize pool of more than $3.2 million across 35 tournaments.

    For players, there’s no shortage of action. The event schedule caters to all bankrolls and playing styles, featuring:

    • Buy-ins ranging from $200 to $1,600
    • Bounty tournaments for those who enjoy knocking out opponents
    • A seniors event, catering to players aged 50 and above
    • A ladies’ tag team event, bringing a unique team dynamic to the tables
    • The increasingly popular Big O bounty event

    This marks the second time a CPPT event has been hosted inside the new Venetian Poker Room. Back in September 2024, Baurzhan Akimov won a $1,100 buy-in CPPT event at the venue, topping a field of 343 entries to claim $63,943.

    Las Vegas’ Largest Poker Room Keeps Raising the Bar

    The Venetian Poker Room’s new location, unveiled in August, is now the largest poker venue on the Strip. Situated on the second floor of the Grand Canal Shoppes at Palazzo, the 14,000 sq. ft. space houses 51 tables and offers players a range of top-tier amenities.

    For those putting in long hours at the tables, the perks are hard to ignore:

    • Complimentary self-serve coffee and soda stations
    • USB and USB-C charging ports at every seat
    • Tableside restaurant ordering for quick meals between hands
    • Free parking for players who log at least three hours of action

    Beyond the creature comforts, players appreciate the quieter environment—far from the constant chime of slot machines. Plus, since smoking is prohibited inside the Grand Canal Shoppes, the air quality is a welcome improvement for many regulars.

    A Legacy of Luxury and Innovation at The Venetian

    The Venetian Resort Las Vegas has been an industry leader since it first opened its doors 25 years ago. Unlike many casinos that focus purely on gambling, The Venetian was built as a comprehensive entertainment experience, combining high-stakes gaming with luxury accommodations, fine dining, and world-class shopping.

    In 2008, the resort expanded with the addition of The Palazzo, making it one of the largest hotel complexes in the world. Now, with the introduction of its cutting-edge poker studio, The Venetian continues to cement its reputation as a premier destination for poker enthusiasts.

    With the CPPT Main Event set to crown its champion on Feb. 16, poker fans and players alike will be keeping a close watch. A seven-figure prize pool, a star-studded field, and a live-streamed final table—Las Vegas poker doesn’t get much better than this.

  • Poker Showdown: Nick Schulman’s Big Bluff Ends Kristen Foxen’s Bracelet Run

    Poker Showdown: Nick Schulman’s Big Bluff Ends Kristen Foxen’s Bracelet Run

  • Connecticut Bill Proposes Legalizing In-Flight Sports Betting

    Connecticut Bill Proposes Legalizing In-Flight Sports Betting

  • Michael ‘Texas Mike’ Moncek Wins PokerGO Cup Kickoff Event, Sets New Record

    Michael ‘Texas Mike’ Moncek Wins PokerGO Cup Kickoff Event, Sets New Record

  • Google Cracks Down on Gambling Ads with Stricter Compliance Rules

    Google Cracks Down on Gambling Ads with Stricter Compliance Rules

    Google is stepping up its efforts to regulate gambling-related advertising with a major policy overhaul set to take effect on April 14. The new guidelines introduce tighter definitions, country-specific bans, and tougher compliance measures that could permanently suspend violators.

    Clearer Definitions and Tougher Licensing Rules

    Online gambling advertisers will now have to navigate a stricter framework defining what qualifies as gambling content. Any website that directly links to gambling services or facilitates betting in any form will be classified as gambling-promoting content. This includes affiliate and aggregator websites, which will now be limited to providing only informational or comparative content about licensed gambling platforms.

    The new policy places a greater emphasis on valid licensing. Advertisers must notify Google immediately if their gambling licenses are revoked, suspended, or terminated. Failure to do so could lead to account suspension, a move aimed at preventing unlicensed operators from exploiting loopholes.

    Country-Specific Gambling Ad Bans

    Google is moving away from broad regional restrictions and will now explicitly list countries where gambling advertisements are prohibited. Nations such as Bulgaria, China, and Egypt will be on this no-advertising list. This shift provides advertisers with a clearer understanding of where they can legally promote their services and removes ambiguity that previously existed under the “country restrictions” framework.

    Expect a more rigid enforcement approach as Google works to ensure that ads don’t slip through in restricted regions.

    Social Casino Games Face Tightened Regulations

    One of the biggest updates affects social casino games, which often mimic real-money gambling but don’t offer direct cash payouts. These games have operated in a legal gray area, but that’s about to change.

    • Social casino game advertisers must now apply for certification from Google.
    • Advertisers promoting both social casino games and real-money gambling must maintain separate accounts for each category.
    • Real-money gambling ads will no longer be allowed within social casino games or their associated websites.

    Violators of these rules will face Google’s “egregious” classification, which means immediate and permanent account suspension with no chance of reinstatement.

    Mahjong Gambling Now Banned in Asia-Pacific

    Mahjong gambling, a popular activity in many parts of Asia, has now been explicitly prohibited in the Asia-Pacific region. Previously, Google’s policies did not specifically restrict this form of gambling, leaving room for operators to advertise loosely regulated services.

    This update signals Google’s intent to crack down on niche gambling markets that may have previously operated in regulatory gray zones.

    Virtual Currencies and In-Game Items Now Fall Under Gambling Rules

    Casino-style games that use virtual currencies or in-game items with real-world value will now be classified as online gambling under Google’s updated policy. This means that even if a game does not offer direct cash payouts, it can still fall under gambling regulations if players can exchange virtual rewards for real money or other valuable items.

    This shift could impact gaming developers who previously skirted gambling regulations by using alternative currencies instead of direct money transactions.

    A Zero-Tolerance Approach to Violators

    The policy update makes it clear: Google will not tolerate repeat offenders. Severe or repeated violations of the gambling ad policy may result in permanent bans, signaling a zero-tolerance stance on non-compliance.

    Companies involved in gambling-related advertising must now:

    • Ensure their licensing is up to date and immediately report any changes to Google.
    • Obtain proper certification based on the specific gambling category and targeted regions.
    • Adhere to country-specific restrictions to avoid ad disapprovals.
    • Comply with stricter social casino game rules to prevent penalties.

    With these changes, Google is making it clear that gambling advertisers must follow the rules—or risk losing access to one of the world’s largest advertising platforms.

  • 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.

  • Ohio Governor Pushes for 40% Tax Rate on Sports Betting, Sparking Industry Debate

    Ohio Governor Pushes for 40% Tax Rate on Sports Betting, Sparking Industry Debate

    Ohio is considering another major tax hike on sports betting, with Governor Mike DeWine proposing a jump from 20% to 40% on gross receipts. This move, part of his $218 billion budget plan for 2026 and 2027, follows a previous increase from 10% to 20% just last year. If approved, Ohio would join states with the highest tax rates in the country, raising concerns about the impact on the industry’s growth.

    DeWine Targets Sportsbooks in Latest Tax Proposal

    Governor DeWine hasn’t held back his frustration with sports betting companies. Speaking to the Ohio Capital Journal, he criticized their aggressive advertising tactics and the financial losses they encourage among Ohioans.

    “These sports gaming [groups] are extremely aggressive… they’re in your face all the time,” DeWine said. “They’re getting Ohioans to lose massive amounts of money every year, and it seems to me only just and fair that some of the stadiums be paid for by them or a portion of it.”

    Revenue from the proposed tax increase would primarily go toward funding youth sports programs and helping finance a new stadium for the Cleveland Browns. The team’s current lease at Huntington Bank Field expires in 2028, and officials are eyeing a new facility by 2029.

    Would Ohio’s Tax Rate Become One of the Nation’s Highest?

    If DeWine’s proposal moves forward, Ohio would become one of the most expensive states for sportsbooks to operate. A recent U.S. Tax Foundation study highlighted the tax rates across the country:

    • High-tax states: New York, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island currently top the list at 51%. Pennsylvania sits at 36%, while Vermont follows at 31.7%.
    • Mid-range states: Ohio (20%) is in line with Arkansas and Massachusetts. Tennessee (19.7%), North Carolina (18%), and several others sit in the 15-20% range.
    • Low-tax states: Nevada and Iowa have some of the lowest rates at 6.75%, with Michigan (8.4%) and Indiana (9.5%) also keeping taxes under 10%.

    Raising Ohio’s rate to 40% would catapult it into the upper tier, potentially discouraging sportsbooks from investing as much in promotions and new business within the state.

    Lawmakers Divided on the Proposed Tax Hike

    The proposal is now in the hands of the Ohio House Finance Committee, and lawmakers are not in unanimous agreement. Senator Niraj Antani has introduced SB190, a bill aiming to roll back the tax rate to 10%. Supporters argue that the higher tax is stifling the industry’s potential and could lead to a decline in revenue if sportsbooks cut back their operations in response.

    There’s precedent for this concern. In New York, where the tax rate sits at 51%, FanDuel has paid over $1 billion in taxes. However, sportsbooks have frequently lobbied for lower rates, warning that long-term sustainability could be an issue if taxes remain too high.

    One major question remains—will Ohio’s sports betting market continue to thrive under higher taxes, or could it push business away to states with more favorable regulations?

    Balancing Revenue and Industry Growth

    The U.S. Tax Foundation report also cautioned against excessive taxation in sports betting, noting that if rates are too high, the black market could thrive as bettors seek alternatives. The report also pointed out that nationwide legalization could double the market size, emphasizing the importance of carefully designed tax policies.

    A closer look at recent trends highlights the delicate balance states must maintain:

    State Tax Rate (%) Sports Betting Market Size (2023, $B)
    New York 51 17.6
    Pennsylvania 36 7.5
    Ohio (current) 20 4.5
    Nevada 6.75 7.1
    Michigan 8.4 3.9

    Despite its lower tax rate, Nevada maintains a strong market presence due to its longstanding history with sports betting. Meanwhile, New York’s higher tax rate has generated significant revenue, but sportsbooks have warned of long-term sustainability challenges.

    If Ohio raises its rate to 40%, it could find itself in a situation where sportsbooks reduce their promotional spending, leading to lower betting activity overall.

    What Happens Next?

    Ohio lawmakers will now debate whether to accept DeWine’s tax proposal, modify it, or reject it altogether. The decision could have major implications for both the sports betting industry and state finances. If the tax hike moves forward, sportsbooks may need to adjust their operations in Ohio, potentially passing costs onto bettors.

    For now, all eyes are on the Ohio House Finance Committee as they deliberate the future of sports betting taxation in the Buckeye State.