At the heart of their concern is the potential loss of 5,000 jobs and up to 50% of local tax revenue.

Bonta’s office claims the changes intend to clarify gaming laws and enhance cardroom regulation. 

However, critics argue the measure will significantly cripple municipalities, which hevily rely on the tax revenue for community programs such as public safety projects and senior programs.

In California, only native American tribes can run “banked games.” These are casino games where the player plays against the dealer, such as blackjack and baccarat. 

However, cardrooms have found a loophole where third-party providers, not casino employees, act as dealers.

What Changes to California Cardrooms Are Proposed?

Bonta’s changes are centered around third-party dealers, known as Third-Party Proposition Player Services (TPPPS), and restrictions on blackjack-style games.

According to the proposal, only players seated at the table can act as TPPPS. They must rotate every 40 minutes. Also, TPPPS would not be allowed to settle wagers unless they’re occupying the player-dealer seat directly.

While not banning blackjack, Bonta’s proposal calls for significant changes to the game:

• Elimination of the “bust” feature, where the player or dealer automatically loses if their score is higher than a certain number.
• Prohibition of the target point count of 21.
• Removal of terms “blackjack” and “21” from the games offered.
• In a “push,” the player would automatically win.

If implemented, the new rules will significantly slow down the pace of the games.

New Law Would Cripple Local Economies

After Bonta introduced the proposals, the Attorney General’s office began holding public meetings to explain the changes and to hear feedback from stakeholders.

At one meeting last week at the Gardens Casino in Hawaiian Gardens, concerned business leaders, local politicians, and cardroom employees voiced their opposition to the changes.

One of them was Hawaiian Gardens Mayor Dandy De Paula, who said that cardrooms contribute 78% of the city’s general fund:

“We strongly oppose the Attorney General introducing unwarranted regulations to games that have been played legally for decades, and that will devastate—and worst yet—potentially bankrupt our city,”

“We rely on our cardroom not only to provide high-quality jobs but for the tax revenue generated that makes up over 78% of our city’s general fund.”

Other municipalities, like Commerce and Bell Gardens, where cardrooms account for 50% of their general fund, also face economic uncertainty under the new rules.

Meanwhile, local businesses would also suffer as they would lose the business of cardroom players.

The Standardized Regulatory Impact Assessment (SRIA) report, prepared by Berkeley Economic Advising and Research, supports these claims. SRIA was commissioned by the attorney’s office and the California Department of Justice.

According to SRIA, the new rules would result in losses of $464 million for card rooms. Meanwhile, tribal casinos would gain $232 million.

The report’s conservative estimate also indicates that card rooms will lose 364 full-time jobs per year over the next decade. That equals over 3,600 full-time jobs lost.

A Growing Legal Battle Over Gaming Rights

Bonta’s proposed regulatory changes are part of the ongoing legal and political conflict between cardrooms and tribal casinos.

California gave tribes exclusivity over casino games in 2000. At the same time, it gave cardrooms a compromise through the TPPPS rule. However, as time passed, new laws expanded the types of games cardrooms can offer. That now includes versions of blackjack, table poker, and pai gow.

The tribes have long protested against this and claim that cardrooms are illegally offering games with tribal exclusivity. 

Following the 2016 tribal gaming compact, three tribes sued the cardrooms, but the U.S. District Court dismissed their claims, ruling that they lacked the necessary sovereignty to bring the lawsuit.

Meanwhile, in the 2022 midterm elections, two cardrooms filed a lawsuit in the Los Angeles Superior Court, challenging a ballot initiative to legalize sports betting. Nine tribes led the initiative, which would’ve allowed roulette and craps at tribal casinos.

The native tribes did score a small victory. In 2024, after a two-year effort, California passed the Tribal Nations Access to Justice Act (TNAJA). TNAJA grants the tribes sovereignty to sue cardrooms for violating state restrictions on banked games.

The tribes initiated the lawsuit shortly after TNAJA took effect on January 1.

The post Attorney General Bonta’s Proposal to Restrict Blackjack in California Cardrooms Sparks Backlash appeared first on CasinoBeats.

Owned and operated by the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians, Four Winds Casinos will implement OpenBet’s Neccton-powered responsible gaming and anti-money laundering software at its gaming resorts across the Midwestern United States.

The player protection software utilises academic research and provides evidence-based interventions such as personalised pop-up messaging, limit setting functionality and behavioural insights.  

“Four Winds Casinos is an institution in Michigan and Indiana’s gaming landscape, whose commitment to player protection aligns with our goals and objectives,” commented Dr Michael Auer, Managing Director at OpenBet’s Neccton.

“OpenBet has continually invested in strengthening its protect pillar and with our Neccton technology always evolving with the latest data insights, Four Winds Casinos can be sure they are at the forefront of player protection.”

With the Four Winds Casino agreement, OpenBet has grown its presence across Michigan and Indiana, in addition to furthering its support for the US tribal casino community, as the company currently provides its modular product suite to 14 tribes.

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The relationship between Tribal Gaming and the commercial casino sector was at the forefront of discussions during the SBC Summit in Lisbon, as a decorated panel gathered in a bid to gain a deeper understanding of the tribal gaming sector. 

Jamie Hummingbird, Chairman, NTGCR emphasised that each tribe requires a very different approach and being meticulous and gaining an understanding is imperative. 

He detailed that each tribe holds different cultures, motives and levels of sophistication,  therefore doing research should be at the heart of the approach for commercial operators looking to collaborate with tribes. 

According to Hummingbird, ‘tribes are protective of their people and sovereignty’ and operators should take note that a licence in one area doesn’t cement an operator’s ability to get a licence in a different jurisdiction. 

In its most recent set of figures, the prosperity and potential of the tribal gaming sector was highlighted as the National Indian Gaming Commission reported record annual gross gaming revenue numbers for tribal gaming, declaring $41.9bn for the fiscal year 2023.

Anika Howard, President & CEO of WONDR NATION, also echoed that if commercial operators are to tap into this, understanding tribal sovereignty is crucial. 

She revealed such is the importance of sovereignty, commercial operators should understand that tribal disputes will likely be settled in tribal court. 

She added that the values of tribal businesses are tied to that of the community, with overall goals for the long term prosperity for the community 

When looking to collaborate with tribes, Howard also underpinned that it is crucial that commercial operators develop an understanding of the limitations of each tribe. 

The panel was keen to outline that central to a successful partnership with a tribal business isn’t to bombard them with information and new tech, but instead to understand the bigger picture on what the brand is trying to achieve and embark on an educational journey together. 

Jason Rosenberg, CEO and Founder of American iGaming Solutions, reiterated that before commercial operators engage with tribes, they simply need to listen. 

He added that the tentativeness from tribes stems from their historic treatment by federal governments and states. 

Brett Calapp, Chief Operating Officer, NAI, Bally’s, who moderated also cited the importance of the history of tribes in order to develop the best relationship with them and their motivation in the modern gaming space. 

As partnerships are formed he added that ‘education is so important with even the most sophisticated retail casinos, sometimes enduring a challenging transition when it comes to moving to online’. 

Nonetheless, he lauded the customer service of tribal gaming, with it being an asset that sets them apart. 

When questioned by the audience, Calapp also issued a warning over the rise of the sweepstake casino sector: “There’s a lot of money in sweepstakes and that doesn’t always attract the best actors, whilst they are legal there are nuances out there in the regulation that need t be abided by,” he said. 

The panel also took a closer look at the state of play for class 2 games and why they are being embraced by tribes too strongly. 

Hummingbird stated: “People are still in the dark about what class 2 games are, with class 2 games having at least 2 people playing, not necessarily in the same room. This has led to Tribal gaming leading the way when it comes to server based gaming.” 

Meanwhile Rosenberg added that ‘Class 2 games are a driving force in the direction tribes are moving’. 

Howard provided a deeper insight into this as she revealed that Class 2 games largely enables Tribes to avoid taxes as they don’t pay taxes on bingo based games, however the sophistication of class 2 games has limited their growth to a degree.

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How important is it that operators educate themselves on the tribal sector and the heritage of the sector before entering new North American markets?

The two best pieces of advice I could give any person or company wishing to engage with a tribe is to do their research.  First – learn about the history of the tribe and its relationships with the federal and state governments, both in the past and recently.  This will give you an idea of why a tribe has a particular outlook.  

Second – remember that all tribes are not the same.  We all have individual histories that were impacted by different circumstances and an approach that may work with one tribe may not work for another.

Recent figures from the National Indian Gaming Commission revealed a record year for gross gaming revenue for tribal gaming. How much of a testament is this to the sector?

Last year, the 527 gaming facilities operated by 245 tribes across the country generated $41.9bn in revenue, accounting for nearly half of all gaming dollars in the US. This remarkable success is the result of the individual, but complementary efforts of tribal operators and regulators is where sharp business acumen is paired with effective regulation. 

By implementing practical safeguards, tribal gaming regulators have established a solid foundation, enabling operators to build and sustain robust gaming enterprises. The driving force behind this success is the shared commitment to generating essential revenue for tribal governments, which in turn benefits tribal citizens.

Do you believe the continued growth of the sector speaks to the importance of the strong regulatory framework and diversity of tribal gaming?

Over the past three-and-a-half decades, the growth of tribal gaming has been a testament to the strategic foresight and resilience of tribal nations. Many tribes initially ventured into the gaming industry with modest operations, such as small-scale bingo halls serving local or regional communities. 

As these operations established a reputation for trustworthiness and reliability, tribes faced a pivotal decision: either to expand their existing facilities or to launch additional venues.

Throughout this journey, tribes continually innovated, finding new ways to enhance the gaming experience for their patrons. They leveraged emerging technologies and adeptly navigated the complex regulatory landscapes governing their operations. By staying attuned to industry trends, tribes were able to craft regulatory frameworks that empowered their gaming facilities to swiftly capitalize on the latest advancements, ensuring their continued growth and success.

How crucial has the ability of Tribal Gaming to adapt to new technologies been, when it comes to ensuring their growth and enabling them to continue to thrive?

When looking back on the history of Indian gaming, tribes have either led the way or have been early adopters of many innovations that have left a lasting mark on the gaming landscape as a whole, such as ticket-in / ticket-out (TITO), digital surveillance, and server-based gaming.  

For instance, as tribal gaming operators began to recognise the efficiencies and cost savings associated with TITO technology, they began speaking with regulators seeking the ability to introduce TITO into tribal gaming facilities. This led tribal regulators to re-design regulatory frameworks that provided for the use of the new technology as it fit within the scope of the law.

Server-based gaming was another major development that has had an undeniable impact on the gaming landscape as a whole. Server-based gaming allowed tribes to take the traditionally manual game of bingo and place it into an electronic environment, greatly enhancing the patron’s gaming experience that has translated into increased revenues for the tribe.  

These games have afforded tribes additional gaming opportunities through the negotiation of tribal-state compacts, having played a vital role in tribes’ ability to keep pace with – if not outrun – commercial gaming at times.

The future of gaming, whether it be in the form of sports wagering or mobile / online gaming, will be a continuation of tribe’s adopting and implementing technologies that will help ensure the growth of Indian gaming.

As consumer preferences have evolved, what have tribal gaming operators done to accommodate the new landscape?

Tribal gaming operators have consistently demonstrated a keen ability to act as barometers, accurately forecasting the “climate” of their respective areas. This success stems from their skill in assessing the needs and preferences of both local and statewide communities. By carefully evaluating these factors, operators have strategically integrated the right amenities into their business models, effectively meeting the desires of the citizenry.

As responsible corporate citizens, tribes understand the profound impact their gaming facilities have on the surrounding communities. This influence is most evident through job creation for both tribal and non-tribal members, partnerships with local businesses, and support for local governments and emergency services. The economic ripple effect of tribal gaming is felt across the state, contributing to the overall well-being of the broader community.

Are there any states that you believe have really got it right when it comes to the relationships between tribes and operators?

I believe the relationship between the State of Mississippi and the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians that led to the nation’s earliest adoption of sports wagering legislation is a good example of two sovereigns showing their willingness to work together in pursuit of a common goal.  

This partnership began even before the legal framework was in place as the two approached the introduction of sports wagering into the state, setting the stage for the day when the opportunity became a legal reality.  In doing so, the Mississippi Choctaw became the first tribe in the US to offer sports wagering and has become the model by which a number of other tribes have followed when sports wagering became legal in their jurisdiction.  

What specifically would you like to see from regulators moving forward in order to continue to enable tribes to thrive in the market?

Ideally, in short, I would like to see further investment in tribal regulatory agencies. By providing the resources needed to attract, properly equip, and train tribal regulators, I believe tribes will benefit from stronger oversight, increased operational efficiency, and enhanced credibility. Well-resourced regulatory bodies can ensure that gaming operations adhere to the highest standards of fairness and integrity, fostering trust among patrons and the broader community. 

Tribal regulators should also focus on establishing practical and relevant standards that not only ensure compliance with federal, state, and tribal laws, but also support the financial success of their gaming facilities. By balancing rigorous oversight with the flexibility needed for revenue generation, these standards can help maintain the integrity of operations while fostering sustainable growth.

This, in turn, will help sustain the long-term growth and success of tribal gaming enterprises, reinforcing their role as vital economic drivers and stewards of their communities’ future.

How challenging has it been for tribes to overcome the increasingly competitive markets for gaming and igaming?

Tribes have built an impressive reputation for making their gaming facilities just as desirable as their commercial counterparts. Achieving parity in entertainment value and delivering an experience on par with iconic destinations like the Las Vegas Strip didn’t happen overnight, but it has become a reality for many tribal venues. 

This success reflects years of dedication to creating high-quality experiences that rival those offered by well-established commercial properties.

How crucial is it that conversations continue to be had around the Tribal gaming sector and what it can do to continue to thrive?

Tribes make up nearly half of the gaming dollars spent in the US. Beyond that, the economic impact tribes have on our individual states, and especially on our local communities, makes it extremely important that all interested parties continue to have an open and on-going dialogue with one another so that any potential opportunities aren’t missed – and that any potential pitfalls are avoided.  

Can you tell us more about the importance of the SBC Summit in Lisbon and why you are excited to attend?

As I attend the SBC Summit for the third time, I am eager to once again explore the potential that sports wagering holds for tribal communities. This event offers a unique opportunity to stay at the forefront of industry developments and to connect with the key players driving these innovations. 

By immersing myself in the latest trends and technology, I can gain valuable insights into the pulse of the industry. Additionally, I hope to offer guidance to anyone interested in doing business in Indian Country by sharing my knowledge and perspectives on tribal gaming.

To find out more about the agenda and to secure your place at the SBC Summit in Lisbon, click on the link below.

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Although the NCPG has worked with tribal gaming entities for several years, the Tribal Advisory Council has been created “to increase awareness and respect for Native cultures as they relate to all facets of gambling so that these cultural practices can help other Native and non-Native communities”. 

In addition, expertise and momentum for NCPG’s culturally specific work will be provided by the Tribal Advisory Council, “while recognising the importance of Native American history and sovereignty in consultation with Native American leaders and experts”. 

Several executives from across the tribal gaming industry have been named as founding members of the NCPG Tribal Advisory Council, including: 

• Raquel Buari, J.D., Executive Vice President, Four Winds Casinos 
• Jacob Coin, Executive Advisor, San Manuel Tribal Council, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians 
• Shannon Dictson, Mescalero Responsible Gaming Program & President, Responsible Gaming Association of New Mexico 
• Anika Howard, Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and CEO of Wondr Nation 
• Maria Lopez, Executive Director, Pascua Yaqui Tribal Gaming Office 
• Matthew Morgan, Chair, Oklahoma Indian Gaming Association 
• Ray Pineault, J.D., President and CEO, Mohegan 
• James Siva, Chair, California Nations Indian Gaming Association 

“Our work with tribes is based on a deep respect for Tribal sovereignty and our core values of neutrality, collaboration, respect and credibility,” commented Keith Whyte, Executive Director of NCPG.

“We have a responsibility to listen and learn, as well as the opportunity to share our knowledge as we seek to reduce the social costs of gambling addiction and improve health and wellness in all communities.

“The relationships and partnerships we have forged over the years are the strong foundation for this exciting new project.” 

To help facilitate the Tribal Advisory Council’s work, NCPG has formed a partnership with Valerie Spicer and Sheila Morago of the Trilogy Group, a Native American-owned and operated organisation with over 50 years of combined experience in governmental affairs, business, economic development and tribal gaming.  

Valerie Spicer, Founding Partner and CEO of Trilogy Group, noted: “We applaud the formation of the NCPG’s Tribal Advisory Council and look forward to supporting stronger connection with the Tribes. 

“This work acknowledges the significance of Tribal Gaming in the gambling sector, the impacts of Tribal gaming on communities, and ways we can support finding balance in helping people heal from gambling-related harm respectfully amid the complexity.”

As part of efforts to provide culturally specific education, Tribal Advisory Council members will take part in two sessions at the NCPG’s National Conference on Gambling Addiction and Responsible Gambling 2024, taking place on July 17-19 in San Diego, California.

These sessions are ‘Truth and Rehabilitation: Recognising and Addressing Historical Trauma in Tribal Communities Through Rehabilitation’ and ‘Perspectives and Advancements in Tribal Responsible Gaming’, which are both taking place on July 18.

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It detailed the record annual gross gaming revenue numbers for Tribal Gaming, declaring $41.9bn for the fiscal year 2023.

FY2023’s figure of $41.9bn is a 2.4 per cent increase on the previous year’s $40.9bn, which was also a new high at the time. Figures come from the audited financial statements of 527 gaming operations from 245 tribes across 29 US states.

Off the back of this, we spoke to Kelli Weaver, SBC’s VP of Relationships for North America, who described the results as ‘massive’ for the sector. 

She added: “It shows the tribes are contenders in the gaming industry. We’re experiencing year over year continued growth.

“We’re an economic powerhouse providing jobs, not just for our own tribal membership, but for the surrounding communities, as well as infrastructure, community services, policing services, roadways, things that we’re doing off of our own lands and out into the community. And it also shows that we’re resilient. 

“From the time that we entered gaming, we had to prove ourselves. And with a number, you know, like $41bn, it shows that we are here and we are definitely a powerhouse in the industry and we’re here to stay. So I’m pretty excited about that.”

She also added that tribes forming their own focused gaming commissions enabled them to be more meticulous in their approach to contracts, tech and the software they are embracing – generally strengthening their connection to the operation side of the industry.  

Weaver added that the pandemic led to the increased embracing of innovation and tech from the Tribal Gaming sector. “Everything has become technology based,” she stated after praising tribes for evolving with the times. 

“We really had to review that and make sure that we were doing it in a safe way. You look at cybersecurity and things that have emerged from the pandemic. You know, we’re on to the next phase, past the digital phase in technology. 

“Now we’re looking at how we protect the data, you know, and I think we just continue. We’re not going to see the end of it. You know, it’s just going to continue to advance. And I think it helps us grow. I think that’s what people expect when they do anything, they expect to be using an app somehow and to have technology at their fingertips.”

Weaver also singled out Michigan as a market that has got things right when it comes to frameworks for ensuring Tribal Gaming can continue to thrive.

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FY2023’s figure of $41.9bn is a 2.4 per cent increase on the previous year’s $40.9bn, which was also a new high at the time. Figures come from the audited financial statements of 527 gaming operations from 245 tribes across 29 US states.

The NIGC’s Acting Chair Sharon M Avery and Vice Chair Jeannie Hovland made the financial announcement at the Wisconsin Gaming Regulators Association Summer Conference in Green Bay.

The commission noted that the figures highlight the “viability of tribal gaming operations”, as well as the industry’s ability “to adapt to technological advances and changes in consumer preferences”. All eight NIGC regions also demonstrated year-over-year growth.

“This year’s GGR results demonstrate how a strong regulatory framework and diversity of tribal gaming enterprises generates growth in the gaming industry,” commented Avery.

“Again, this year, tribal gaming operators and regulators have proven that their ingenuity and tenacity are catalysts for growth, even in the face of an ever-changing gaming landscape.

“This steadfastness will ensure that tribal gaming remains a valuable resource for continued economic sustainability in tribal communities.” 

Per region, tribal gaming in Sacramento (87 operations) generated the most GGR over FY2023 with $11.97bn (2022: $11.76bn), followed by DC (44 operations) with $9.2bn (2022: $8.98bn), St Paul (95 operations) with $5.09bn (2022: $4.95bn) and Portland (53 operations) with $4.53bn (2022: $4.48bn).

Tribal gaming in Phoenix (54 operations) produced $3.93bn GGR over the year (2022: $3.72bn), followed by Tulsa (74 operations) with $3.56bn (2022: $3.49bn), Oklahoma City (75 operations) with $3.22bn (2022: $3.15bn) and Rapid City (45 operations) with $425.9m (2022: $406.2m).

Hovland added: “I congratulate the industry regulators, operators, and tribal leadership on another successful year. 

“Their hard work in meeting and overcoming the challenges presented by an increasingly competitive market is evidence that tribes are resilient, and their gaming expertise is yielding benefits for their nations as IGRA intended.”

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Both Hovland and Avery have been appointed to three-year terms with the NIGC. This will be Hovland’s second term as Associate Commissioner, while it will be Avery’s first. Both appointments were proposed by Secretary of the Interior, Deb Haaland.

An enrolled member of the Flandreau Santee Sioux Tribe of South Dakota, Hovland has been with the NIGC since 2021. Previously, she was Commissioner of the Administration for Native Americans and Deputy Assistant Secretary for Native American Affairs for the Administration for Children and Families at the US Department of Health and Human Services. 

She also worked for nearly 13 years with the office of South Dakota Senator John Thune, assisting with legislation such as the Tribal Law and Order Act and the Code Talkers Recognition Act of 2008.

Commenting on her reappointment, Hovland said: “I am truly honoured to be appointed to serve on the Commission for a second term. I look forward to collaboration between the Agency and tribal nations, as we continue our important work to meet the ever-changing landscape of the tribal gaming industry.”

Avery is an enrolled member of the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe of Michigan and has been with the NIGC for over four years serving as an Associate General Counsel in the NIGC Office of General Counsel. 

Before joining the NIGC, she served for more than 10 years in the Legal Department for the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe of Michigan, most recently serving as General Counsel for Tribal Operations.

“It is with great privilege that I accept this appointment as an Associate Commissioner with the NIGC,” added Avery. 

“I am excited to be a part of the continued work between the agency and tribes within the framework of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act to ensure the continued integrity of Indian gaming.”

The post NIGC selects Jeannie Hovland and Sharon Avery as Associate Commissioners appeared first on CasinoBeats.

SkyCity

SkyCity has announced that David Christian has resigned as Chief Operating Officer Australia.

Callum Mallet, interim CEO of SkyCity, noted: “David has held a number of senior roles during his career with SkyCity since joining in 2005 and has led the SkyCity Adelaide business through a very challenging and demanding period, demonstrating strong leadership and resilience.”

From April 13, Christian will be replaced as Chief Operating Officer Australia by Avril Baynes, who is the current General Manager of Hospitality at SkyCity Adelaide and has previously been the General Manager of the Mindil Beach Casino Resort in Darwin, Australia.

Julian Cook, Board Chair of SkyCity, added: “On behalf of the SkyCity Adelaide board and the SkyCity board, I thank David for his tireless efforts and dedication to SkyCity and wish him well.”

GiG

GiG has submitted its proposal for two separate board entities ahead of the company’s split of its Media and Platform businesses.

GiG Media will be operated under the company’s current corporate structure, while GiG Platform, the business tech subsidiary, will be spun off to GiG’s shareholders later in the year.

The proposal has been submitted to investors before the company’s annual general meeting on May 22. The two separate boards have been created “with the aim to optimise the growth opportunities for each business entity”.

GiG Platform’s board will be led by Petter Nylander as Chair, alongside Nicolas Adlercreutz, Mikael Riese Harstad, Hesam Yazdi, Tomasz Juroszek and Steve Salmon. It will not feature Karolina Pelc, as she declined re-election due to other commitments. 

For GiG Media’s board, the committee has proposed Harstad as Chair alongside a re-elected Hesam Yazdi, with the additions of Cristina Romero de Alba, Mateusz Juroszek and Nicholas Batram.

Romero de Alba is a legal expert in gambling disciplines, a partner of Madrid law firm LOYRA, and has worked as counsel for M&As of clients including institutional and strategic investors, operators and suppliers in over 30 countries.

Juroszek has 20 years of gambling industry experience and was previously CEO of Poland’s largest bookmaker STS from 2012 to 2023. Batram is the former Group Director of M&A and Corporate Development at Entain.

Chicken Ranch Casino Resort

Chicken Ranch Casino Resort has appointed Katie Kirkland as Group Sales Manager.

Kirkland brings over 14 years of experience in the hospitality, tourism, and sales industry to the resort ahead of its planned opening later this year in the summer.

She previously worked at Club Med Resorts, Black Oak Casino Resort and Development Counsellors International.

Commenting on her new role, Kirkland said: “As the new Group Sales Manager at Chicken Ranch Casino Resort, I am excited to bring fresh perspectives and innovative strategies to enhance our guests’ group experiences.

“Our team is dedicated to creating memorable events and ensuring every detail exceeds expectations. I look forward to collaborating with our clients and partners to elevate our offerings and establish Chicken Ranch as a premier destination for group gatherings.”

Raketech

Raketech’s nomination committee has proposed the appointment of Jon Moss to the company’s board of directors ahead of its annual general meeting on May 16.

The committee has also proposed the reelection of all current board members and Ulrik Bengtsson as Chair.

Moss has extensive experience in igaming, as he has previously spent over a decade as Head of International Development at bet365.

He has also been an independent consultant working across various geographies, including numerous markets in Europe, North America, Australasia, certain Asia markets and Latin America. 

The committee is confident that Moss would strengthen Raketech’s board with his igaming and international experience, bringing value to help the company’s growth initiatives.

Svenska Spel

Svenska Spel has appointed Gustav Georgson as Head of Public Affairs.

Taking on the role from April 29, Georgson joins the operator from the Government Offices, where he worked as a political adviser at the Liberal Party’s coordination office.

“Five years after the re-regulation of the gambling market, gambling is still the subject of much debate. With Gustav’s cutting-edge expertise in public affairs, we will continue to develop our relationship with Svenska Spel’s stakeholders,” stated Frank Hojem, Head of Communications and Sustainability at Svenska Spel.

“We will be a clear voice in the debate and contribute with concrete views on the industry’s most important issues. Gustav will play a central role in this work.”

Commenting on his new role, Georgson said: “I have always had a positive view of Svenska Spel as a player with an important role in society. I look forward to working with my new colleagues to consolidate our position as a responsible role model in the gaming market.”

Rush Street Interactive

Rush Street Interactive has hired Brian Sapp for the newly-created role of Chief Marketing Officer.

Sapp has a strong record in data-driven marketing and live operations within the mobile industry. He was previously on the Executive Team at Rec Room, overseeing several functions, including media buying, product marketing, creative, social and first-party revenue.

He has also held the position of Senior Vice President of User Acquisition & Ads at Jam City, Director of Digital Publishing at WB Games and Director of Developer Partnerships at Tapjoy.

“As we continue to grow and expand across the Americas, a marketing leader with Brian’s unique blend of gaming and mobile experience, strategic insight, and creativity will be additive to the team as we shape the future of our brand and continue to innovate our customer-first experience,” said Richard Schwartz, CEO of RSI. 

“We are thrilled to welcome him aboard to lead our marketing strategy, team, and operations.” 

Mattias Stetz, RSI’s Chief Operations Officer who previously led the marketing team, will now focus more on scaling operations and increasing Latin American growth.   

Sapp stated: “I am thrilled to join Rush Street Interactive at a time when the company has such strong momentum. RSI’s customer-first focus really resonated with me as a marketer who understands what it takes to succeed in a competitive mobile landscape.

“I look forward to leveraging my experience and expertise to drive forward our marketing initiatives during RSI’s next phase of growth and deliver exceptional experiences to our customers.”

The post SkyCity, GiG, Rush Street Interactive: on the move appeared first on CasinoBeats.

Justin Barrett, Treasurer of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma, emphasised this as he spoke to Payment Expert about how the gaming journey for players can continue to thrive.

He revealed: “We are focusing on seamlessly connecting online and land-based payment systems and making it easy for players to manage their funds across multiple platforms. It is all about making gaming more accessible, secure and enjoyable so players have a better experience.

“The US market has been slow to adapt to new technology compared to the European market. This can really be seen in how we conduct sportsbetting where the European market is way ahead of us. 

“Tribal nations are setting the standard in our brick and mortar casino and adopting new technology is how we will continue to set the standard against commercial properties.” 

He went on to detail that through investments in technology and embracing digital platforms such as online gaming and cashless payment systems the industry can grow significantly.

He specifically highlighted the potential impact that cashless gaming can have on the sector and on player engagement – adding: “How many customers have gaming apps on their phones? There is a need for entertainment away from the brick and mortar. 

“This also allows the customer to engage with your brand even off property. We are seeing major entertainment venues move towards cashless such as BOK.”

Justin Barrett is one of many North American betting and gaming experts who will be speaking at the SBC Summit North America from 7-9 May, 2024. 

Purchase your ticket HERE to gain access to all three days of the event, including the exhibition, conference and exclusive networking parties.You can keep up-to-date with the latest news, speakers & exhibitor additions and conference content by subscribing to the bi-weekly SBC Summit North AmericaLinkedIn newsletter.

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