Connect with us
Prague Gaming & TECH Summit 2025 (25-26 March)

Canada

Michigan Gaming Control Board joins gaming states coalition urging USDOJ to prioritize combating illegal, offshore sportsbooks and online casinos

Published

on

 

The Michigan Gaming Control Board joined a coalition of seven gaming states’ regulators urging the U.S. Department of Justice to make combating illegal, offshore sportsbooks and online casinos a priority. In an April 28 letter, MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams and fellow state regulators asked Attorney General Merrick Garland to address the significant threats offshore illegal gambling poses that state regulators cannot tackle alone.

“In Michigan, strict laws and rules govern internet gaming and sports betting and provide consumer protections, promote confidence and ensure fair and honest gaming,” Williams said. “We are willing to help the U.S. Department of Justice in any way we can as it pursues enforcement of U.S. laws against offshore illegal gaming enterprises that take advantage of our citizens.”

Other state regulators signing the letter represent Colorado, Illinois, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Jersey and Nevada, and Nevada Gaming Control Board Chairman Kirk D. Hendrick sent the letter to Attorney General Garland. In the letter, the seven states’ gaming regulators note the dangers posed by illegal offshore wagering sites, including:

  • Lack of investment in responsible gaming programs
  • No age verification requirements to protect minors
  • No controls to prevent money laundering
  • No guarantees of fair payouts for customers
  • Loss of state tax revenue that funds important initiatives like education

Offshore operators do not undergo nor comply with strict licensing requirements imposed on legal, regulated operators. They also are not subject to the scrutiny of state regulators who conduct thorough suitability and background investigations of regulated operators as required by state laws.

“State regulators like the MGCB ensure operators offer products that pass technical standards and testing, and we also require operators to comply with reporting requirements,” Williams said. “Offshore operators flaunt state regulations and offer products that do not protect the public, which greatly concerns me and my fellow state regulators.”

Advertisement
European Gaming Congress 2024 (Warsaw, Poland)

In the letter, the state regulators noted they are proud of the work they do to protect the public, including enforcing payout requirements and dispute resolution procedures. Unlike their regulated counterparts, illegal operators simply may disappear with their customers’ funds and provide no resources to assist those who may need help. Regulated operators recognize licensing is a privilege that can be taken away, but illegal operators do not face similar consequences for failure to follow laws and maintain integrity.

The gaming states’ regulators provide supervision and enforcement, but the regulators point out in their letter that illegal operators do not answer to any authority. The state regulators hope the U.S. Department of Justice can address these critical issues through leadership in enforcement action against offshore operators.

The Michigan Gaming Control Board shall ensure the conduct of fair and honest gaming to protect the interests of the citizens of the State of Michigan.”

Continue Reading
Advertisement

BetConstruct

BetConstruct Becomes the First iGaming Company to Offer Both B2B and B2C Licenses in Canada through Affiliate Entity

Published

on

betconstruct-becomes-the-first-igaming-company-to-offer-both-b2b-and-b2c-licenses-in-canada-through-affiliate-entity

 

BetConstruct, a global pioneer in iGaming and sports betting solutions, has announced a significant milestone in the gaming industry. Through its affiliate entity, BetConstruct has become the first iGaming company authorized to facilitate the issuance of both Business-to-Business (B2B) and Business-to-Consumer (B2C) licenses. This remarkable achievement was made possible by obtaining a direct license authorization from the Tobique First Nation in Canada.

The Tobique First Nation, renowned for its innovative and forward-thinking regulatory approach, has entrusted BetConstruct’s affiliate entity with the authority to oversee applications and facilitate the issuance of licenses from its jurisdiction. This partnership underscores shared values of innovation, transparency, and a commitment to responsible gaming practices.

This historic development places BetConstruct at the forefront of the Canadian iGaming market, redefining the opportunities available to gaming operators. By leveraging its affiliate entity’s licensing capabilities, BetConstruct empowers businesses to navigate a streamlined and transparent regulatory environment, unlocking new opportunities for growth and innovation.

“At BetConstruct, we’ve always strived to push the boundaries of what’s possible in iGaming. This landmark achievement with the Tobique First Nation reflects our unwavering dedication to creating opportunities for our partners while upholding the highest standards of responsibility and integrity in gaming,” said Vigen Badalyan, Co-Founder of BetConstruct.

Advertisement
European Gaming Congress 2024 (Warsaw, Poland)

The issuance of dual licenses under the watchful eye of BetConstruct’s affiliate not only highlights BetConstruct’s commitment to supporting its partners but also reinforces the company’s role as a trusted leader in the global iGaming landscape.

This milestone signals a new era for regulated iGaming, as BetConstruct takes bold steps to establish a robust ecosystem for operators and consumers alike. With its direct license authorization from the Tobique First Nation, BetConstruct is setting a new standard for innovation, consumer protection, and sustainable growth in Canada and beyond.

The post BetConstruct Becomes the First iGaming Company to Offer Both B2B and B2C Licenses in Canada through Affiliate Entity appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.

Continue Reading

Canada

Great Canadian Entertainment and Petroglyph Development Group Announce Closing of the Acquisition of Casino Nanaimo and Elements Casino Victoria

Published

on

great-canadian-entertainment-and-petroglyph-development-group-announce-closing-of-the-acquisition-of-casino-nanaimo-and-elements-casino-victoria

 

Great Canadian Entertainment and Petroglyph Development Group Ltd. announced that PDG has closed the previously announced acquisitions of Casino Nanaimo and Elements Casino Victoria from Great Canadian, in historic transactions for both parties. PDG is a wholly owned corporation of Snuneymuxw First Nation (the “Nation”) and is dedicated to realizing the economic potential of the Nation.

The transactions, originally announced on June 24, 2024, for Casino Nanaimo and September 10, 2024, for Elements Casino Victoria, have received all required approvals from the regulatory authorities.

“We are thrilled to have completed these transactions. An incredible amount of work has been undertaken by our corporate team, our on-site teams at both properties, and PDG to achieve this successful closing. I am grateful for their efforts, as well as everyone at the B.C. Lottery Corporation and the Gaming Policy Enforcement Branch, who were thoughtful, diligent, and thorough in facilitating these closings,” said Matt Anfinson, Chief Executive Officer of Great Canadian.

“We look forward to working closely with PDG during the transition period to support the continued successful operation of Casino Nanaimo and Elements Casino Victoria,” Anfinson added.

Advertisement
European Gaming Congress 2024 (Warsaw, Poland)

“We celebrate the closing of our two casino acquisitions and our continued progress toward building a strong Snuneymuxw economy. For decades, Snuneymuxw leadership has worked tirelessly toward this moment, recognizing the connection between a strong economy, self-determination, and the foundation of nationhood. Today, we honour the achievements of those who came before us by securing businesses that will strengthen our Nation for generations to come. Thank you to the PDG and Great Canadian teams for your exceptional work. We look forward to a rewarding partnership with the B.C. Lottery Corporation, driving economic growth for the Nation and Province,” said Chief Mike Wyse.

Erralyn Joseph, President of PDG, said: “This measured acquisition marks an important milestone for PDG as we continue growing a corporate enterprise that reinvests directly into the prosperity of our Nation. With a strong operating plan focused on risk mitigation and yielding sizable returns, PDG continues to generate sustainable wealth for Snuneymuxw. With every step we are realizing our socio-economic potential and influence at a local, national, and global level. On behalf of the Board of Directors, we are pleased to share this news and remain committed to advancing economic growth in support of all residents connected to Snuneymuxw territory.”

“Acquiring these assets marks a pivotal shift for Snuneymuxw and Vancouver Island. This transition will fuel the Island’s economy, strengthening the Snuneymuxw Nation and ensuring the benefits stay local,” said Ian Simpson, Chief Executive Officer of PDG.

The post Great Canadian Entertainment and Petroglyph Development Group Announce Closing of the Acquisition of Casino Nanaimo and Elements Casino Victoria appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.

Advertisement
European Gaming Congress 2024 (Warsaw, Poland)
Continue Reading

Canada

Ottawa Black Bears Announce Partnership Deal with PowerPlay

Published

on

ottawa-black-bears-announce-partnership-deal-with-powerplay

 

The Ottawa Black Bears announced an extensive partnership agreement with PowerPlay Online Sportsbook and Casino that will see the company’s logo featured on the club’s home and away jerseys.

In addition to the jersey partnership, PowerPlay will also have branding elements inside the goal crease, behind the bench, on the LED display ring, and along the rinkboards for Black Bears home games at Canadian Tire Centre. As part of the deal, PowerPlay also becomes the exclusive sportsbook and online casino partner for the Ottawa Black Bears.

“We are thrilled to have PowerPlay on board for our inaugural season with such a comprehensive partnership agreement. Their investment with the Black Bears represents a foundational agreement for our lacrosse club. And we’re proud to wear their logo alongside ours as we launch our franchise,” said Chelsea McDermott, Vice President of Business Operations for the Ottawa Black Bears.

“We are excited to bring PowerPlay’s bold, community-driven spirit to Ottawa-Gatineau, partnering with the Black Bears as they establish themselves as a force in lacrosse. This partnership celebrates a sport deeply tied to Canada’s heritage and competitive energy. Together, we’ll ignite passion, energize fans, and deliver excitement all season long,” said Thomas Vermeulen, Marketing Director for PowerPlay.

Advertisement
European Gaming Congress 2024 (Warsaw, Poland)

The post Ottawa Black Bears Announce Partnership Deal with PowerPlay appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.

Continue Reading

Trending