New Shifts in Philippine Gaming Regulation: PAGCOR Board Resigns Amid Marcos Overhaul

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Navigating Changes in Philippine Gaming Regulation: PAGCOR Board Resigns Amid Marcos Overhaul

The recent resignation of the entire board at the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) marks a pivotal moment for gaming regulation in the country. This massive leadership shakeup, initiated by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., underscores a push for a total overhaul of government operations. As the administration navigates significant political turmoil, the stability and future direction of gaming regulation remain at the forefront of the nations efforts to reform and reorganize its oversight of the gambling industry.

Key Highlights

  • PAGCOR serves as the governing body for casinos and gaming in the Philippines.
  • Resignation includes key figures like the Chair and CEO, Alejandro Tengco.
  • The decision follows disappointing results from the recent midterm elections.

Following a disappointing performance in the midterm elections, where President Marcos Jr.’s allies did not fare well, he urged high-ranking government officials to step down. This call for resignation aims to realign government operations more closely with the expectations of the Philippine people.

Political leadership
Image by kalhh from Pixabay

PAGCOR Operations In Focus

Currently, PAGCOR is tasked not only with regulatory duties but also operates numerous gaming facilities throughout the nation. This dual role has raised ongoing concerns about potential conflicts of interest. The government has discussed transitioning PAGCOR to a regulatory-only agency to clarify its responsibilities.

Despite these changes, the government’s stance on PAGCOR’s existing gaming assets remains firm, with President Marcos asserting that selling the Casino Filipino properties is not feasible unless for a fair price.

“I don’t do things for show or appearance. If there is a problem, I like to fix it,” said Marcos. He emphasised the importance of a rigorous review of government departments, aiming to better align with the public’s expectations.

In a related development, the President’s administration has faced criticism over its handling of the country’s offshore gaming industry, primarily targeting players abroad, particularly from China. Following repeated requests from Beijing, Marcos announced the cancellation of all Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) licenses effective December 15, 2024, further complicating PAGCOR’s operational landscape.

What Lies Ahead for PAGCOR?

The future of PAGCOR’s leadership is uncertain as the president has yet to appoint new board members. The transition period will be critical, as PAGCOR continues to serve a dual role that many believe could be better delineated.

Summary

The resignation of PAGCOR’s board amid President Marcos Jr.’s government overhaul underscores the significant political shifts occurring in the Philippines. With the president advocating for a government realignment to enhance public service, the future of both the regulatory and operational aspects of PAGCOR remains in flux. Stakeholders in the Philippine gaming industry will be closely monitoring how these changes will shape the future of gaming regulations and operations in the country.

The Real History of Casino Dealers: Debunking Las Vegas Myths and the First Female Dealers of the Strip | 10BET

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The Untold History of Las Vegas: From Lefty Rosenthal to the Rise of Professional Casino Dealers

Editor’s Note: “Vegas Myths Busted” is a weekly series that aims to unveil the truths behind popular misconceptions about life on the Strip, ranging from historical legends to the secret techniques used by professional casino dealers. Each installment explores the deeper context of Las Vegas history to separate fact from fiction.

Between 1974 and 1978, Frank “Lefty” Rosenthal was at the helm of several prominent Las Vegas casinos, including the Stardust and Fremont, operating them without a gaming license. This move ensured a “skim” of at least $1.6 million for the Chicago mafia, but his contributions extended beyond financial dealings.

Court testimony
Image by Gruendercoach from Pixabay

In the 1950s, Rosenthal’s activities included fixing sporting events, which led to multiple indictments. Allegations of his involvement in violent criminal acts further characterised his controversial past. However, one of the claims often associated with him is that he was the first to hire female dealers on the Strip. In reality, this is a myth.

The Real History of Female Dealers in Las Vegas

Women had been dealing cards in Las Vegas since as early as 1943. However, by 1958, a growing presence of female dealers led to pushback from their male counterparts, prompting city officials to impose a 12-year ban on women dealing cards in the casino industry. This legislative change stifled progressive employment practices for over a decade.

Despite these restrictions, some women continued to work as dealers in surrounding areas, including North Las Vegas and Henderson. It wasn’t until August 1970 that Jean Brady broke the glass ceiling on the Las Vegas Strip, becoming the first female blackjack dealer at the Silver Slipper.

women casino
Image by Annonceslegales from Pixabay

Brady herself said, “I’m not fighting for any rights for women,” highlighting that her goal was simply to make the most of her job opportunities. Her position came about as a result of legal interventions demanding equal hiring practices, which forced establishments, like the Desert Inn, to cease discrimination against female applicants.

Did Lefty Really Pave the Way for Women?

Rosenthal does hold a significant spot in the history of sports betting, being credited for introducing it to the Strip by launching the first sportsbook at the Stardust in 1976. Yet, when it comes to employing female dealers, he was merely following the trend established by others like Jean Brady.

Five years after Brady’s achievement, Rosenthal is noted for hiring the Strip’s first female baccarat dealer, Shirley Brancucci. Still, many experts argue that this was influenced more by the casino management at the time than by Rosenthal himself.

How the Myth Came to Be

The narrative that Rosenthal was the pioneer of hiring female dealers gained traction through Nicholas Pileggi’s book “Casino: Love and Honor in Las Vegas,” which later became a film starring Robert De Niro as Sam “Ace” Rothstein. This portrayal blurred the lines between fact and fiction, leading many to accept these embellished claims as truth.

Casino film
Image by zikiline from Pixabay

Rosenthal lived a surprisingly long life for a man in his line of work, passing away in Miami in 2008. After his death, it was revealed that he had acted as an FBI informant, a revelation that may have once altered his status in the annals of gambling history.

Key Takeaways

  • Frank Rosenthal operated prominent Las Vegas casinos without a license.
  • He was falsely credited as the first to hire female dealers on the Strip; the actual pioneer was Jean Brady.
  • The ban on female dealers lasted from 1958 until 1970 due to male dealer hostility.
  • Rosenthal significantly contributed to the introduction of sports betting to the Las Vegas Strip.
  • His life and influence were shaped in part by media portrayals that embellished his legacy.

In conclusion, while Frank “Lefty” Rosenthal is indeed a significant figure in Las Vegas history, the myths surrounding his role in hiring female dealers do not hold up under scrutiny. Champions of women’s rights in this context should be those who fought against the bans and successfully made way for a more inclusive gaming environment.

This exploration of myth versus reality highlights the importance of fact-checking and understanding the true story behind the legendary figures who shaped the city of Las Vegas.

Resorts World Las Vegas Pairs Autonomous Travel with Seamless Cashless Gaming | 10BET

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Resorts World Las Vegas Pairs Autonomous Zoox Rideshare with Seamless Cashless Gaming

Resorts World Las Vegas has recently partnered with Zoox, an innovative autonomous rideshare service that promises to redefine guest transport through autonomous travel in the vibrant atmosphere of Sin City. This partnership marks a significant step forward in integrating seamless technology into the casino experience, paving the way for a fully digital ecosystem where guests can transition effortlessly from their ride to the gaming floor. By prioritizing a high-tech lifestyle, this collaboration complements the rise of cashless gaming, ensuring that every aspect of a visitors journey is as efficient and modern as their digital betting experience.

  • Collaborative Launch: The collaboration between Resorts World and Zoox designates the rideshare company as the resort’s ‘Official Robotaxi.’
  • Amazon-Backed Innovation: Zoox is a subsidiary of Amazon, having been acquired for $1.2 billion in June 2020. This state-of-the-art service will operate without drivers.
  • Dedicated Services: Zoox will have its designated pick-up and drop-off location at the main entrance of Resorts World, ensuring seamless access for guests.

Resorts World Las Vegas, with a staggering investment of $4.3 billion, is one of the most technologically advanced casino resorts on the renowned Las Vegas Strip. Since opening its doors in June 2021, it has continually sought to incorporate cutting-edge amenities that enhance the guest experience.

Autonomous travel
Image by WOKANDAPIX from Pixabay

On the announcement day, Carlos Castro, the president and CFO of Resorts World Las Vegas, expressed excitement about how collaborating with Zoox sets the stage for “the future of guest experiences.”

He stated, “This collaboration reflects our commitment to integrating technology solutions that elevate our service offerings and enhance how guests experience our property.” By welcoming Zoox robotaxis into our transportation ecosystem, we’re creating new possibilities for our guests while reinforcing Las Vegas’s position as a global innovation hub.

Zoox Robotaxi Operation

Each Zoox vehicle comfortably accommodates four passengers, designed for both intimacy and privacy, as there is no physical driver present. This is particularly advantageous for riders who prefer a quieter atmosphere or may experience social anxiety.

Zoox is not just stopping at Resorts World; they plan to expand their services throughout Southern Nevada soon, with testing already happening in Las Vegas and San Francisco. Additionally, operations are also in the works for Miami and Austin.

How to Use Zoox

Using Zoox is simple, especially for those familiar with ride-hailing apps like Uber or Lyft. Here’s a quick guide:

  1. Download the Zoox app from your app store.
  2. Create an account by entering your details and payment information.
  3. Enter your desired destination.
  4. Hail a Zoox ride, and once it arrives, unlock the vehicle via the app.
  5. Adjust the in-vehicle settings for climate control and music through the digital display.

Safety is a paramount concern for Zoox. The service asserts it is safer than traditional cabs operated by humans. However, it is worth mentioning that the company recently recalled 270 vehicles for software updates after a minor incident in San Francisco.

Tech-Focused Features at Resorts World

Not just limited to transportation, Resorts World Las Vegas is rich in tech innovations designed to enhance guest satisfaction:

  • RED Digital Concierge: This feature allows for seamless check-in and check-out, reservation management, and handling amenities like in-room dining.
  • Smart Technology: Most hotel rooms come equipped with a 65-inch LED Smart TV, enabling guests to enjoy their favourite shows and movies easily.
  • Cashless Gaming: The resort’s app provides gamblers with the convenience of playing slots and table games as well as making sports bets directly from their smartphones.

This app also facilitates other transactions within the resort and anywhere Mastercard is accepted, making it a one-stop solution for both gaming and day-to-day needs.

As Resorts World Las Vegas and Zoox join forces, the future looks bright for technology within the casino industry, ensuring that visitors enjoy a seamless and enhanced experience in Sin City.

Summary: Resorts World Las Vegas’ partnership with Zoox marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of casino technology. The introduction of autonomous rideshare taxis enhances mobility for guests while highlighting the resort’s commitment to integrating innovative solutions. With advanced features like cashless gaming and digital concierges, Resorts World is set to redefine luxury and convenience on the Strip.

UFC 316: Sports Betting Guide for Sean O’Malley and MMA Underdog Value | 10BET

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UFC 316 Odds: Why Underdog Sean O’Malley is Driving Massive Sports Betting Action

DraftKings is gearing up for a record-breaking summer by elevating the thrill of sports betting through an action-packed lineup of UFC events. The excitement is palpable as fans look to leverage their expertise and place their wagers on Sean O’Malley in his high-stakes MMA fight against Merab Dvalishvili on June 7.

  • DraftKings is looking at record handle on the UFC this summer
  • Money is heading to Sean O’Malley in his fight against Merab Dvalishvili fight on June 7
  • Oddsmakers are also favouring Ilia Topuria in UFC 317

Jam-Packed UFC Schedule for June

The UFC has a jam-packed calendar for June, featuring two main pay-per-view events and three smaller UFC Fight Night outings. Johnny Avello, a seasoned sports betting director at DraftKings, is optimistic and dismisses any notion of bettor fatigue surrounding the dynamic mixed martial arts scene.

MMA fight
Image by GoldBJJ from Pixabay

Avello shared, “We’re projecting a bigger handle this year than we did last year. The excitement is just ramping up, and we’re all systems go for a blockbuster summer!”

Dvalishvili is the Betting Favourite

UFC 316 kicks off June 7 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. Avello anticipates six weeks of excellent UFC action and betting excitement.

The main event features a bantamweight title rematch between Merab Dvalishvili and Sean O’Malley, who faced off last September, where Dvalishvili secured a unanimous decision victory.

Currently, O’Malley is listed as the underdog at DraftKings at odds of +250, while Dvalishvili stands at -310.

“People are putting their money on O’Malley in the rematch,” stated Avello. “They’ve had quite a lot of faith in him, especially considering how things went last time.”

Avello noted, “Everyone seems to be leaning towards the +250. It’s an intriguing match-up that presents compelling reasons to bet on O’Malley.”

O’Malley previously remarked that the vibrant lights at the Las Vegas Sphere affected his performance last September. Dvalishvili dismissed these claims, signalling his confidence.

The Money is on O’Malley

Avello expressed satisfaction with the betting landscape, stating, “We like the position we’re in. We’re thrilled that the public is backing O’Malley.”

In addition to the bantamweight showdown, UFC 316 will also showcase a women’s bantamweight title fight between Julianna Pena and Kayla Harrison.

Following UFC 316, attention turns to UFC 317 in Las Vegas on June 28, where Ilia Topuria faces Charles Oliveira in another high-stakes lightweight title bout.

No other sport captivates like the UFC, combining thrilling competition, impressive athleticism, and compelling drama that keeps viewers engaged.

Impact of Betting on UFC Lines

Avello explained the complexity behind setting UFC fight odds, stating that their experts meticulously analyse each fighter’s trajectory, career longevity, and skill set.

Balancing Public Perception and Fighter Data

“We’ve got a dedicated team closely monitoring these aspects to establish competitive odds. Once set, it’s a dynamic process influenced by public opinion and sharp bettors,” Avello clarified.

Ultimately, the odds may stabilise as they balance action from both sides leading up to the fight.

In Summary

The excitement surrounding UFC 316 continues to grow, with underdog Sean O’Malley capturing significant interest from bettors against champion Merab Dvalishvili. With a series of pivotal match-ups scheduled for June, fans can expect plenty of action and entertainment as sports betting thrives within the world of MMA.

How the Casino Industry in Rhode Island is Seeking Increased State Funding

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How Funding Trends in Rhode Island Impact the Broader Casino Industry

The evolving landscape of the casino industry in Rhode Island is currently being shaped by a significant push for increased state support. Both Bally’s Lincoln and Bally’s Tiverton are advocating for more state funds to enhance their promotional activities, a move that is critical to their casino funding and aims to sustain their operations while continuing to benefit the state economy. As these businesses navigate the complexities of the modern casino industry, an intriguing scenario is unfolding as discussions regarding a smoking ban on casino floors loom.

Casino funding
Image by StockSnap from Pixabay

Bally’s Corporation holds a dominant position in the state’s gaming industry, being the sole provider of brick-and-mortar casino experiences. A critical aspect of their revenue model involves directing a significant portion of their earnings to the state treasury. Specifically, the casinos contribute:

  • 60% of their slot-like video lottery terminal revenue to the Rhode Island General Fund.
  • 15.5% of earnings from table games.
  • 1% of total revenues allocated for the benefit of local communities surrounding the casinos.

Financial Contributions and State Support

With Rhode Island reaping over $350 million annually from both Bally’s locations, the state has an established practice of providing a marketing subsidy to bolster these casinos. At present, this funding amounts to around $4 million each year, which Bally’s representatives argue is insufficient to keep their venues competitive, especially with threats of impending legislative changes.

Bally’s is vocally opposing House Bill 5464 and Senate Bill 188, which aim to enforce a smoking ban on their casino floors. The company contends that smoking is integral to attracting and retaining patrons and are lobbying state lawmakers to approve additional promotional funds as a safeguard against any potential loss of revenue.

The Proposed Consolidated Marketing Programme

In light of these challenges, legislation is being considered that could reform the state’s approach to casino marketing. Senate Bill 1112 proposes to unite the marketing efforts of the two casinos under a single “Consolidated Marketing Program.” This initiative could boost the annual marketing allocation by an estimated $2.75 million, increasing the total to about $6.75 million.

Currently, the allocation for casino marketing is derived from the state’s gambling receipts, with the caveat that it cannot rise more than 3% a year. This stagnation in funding limits the casinos’ ability to advertise effectively and compete both locally and with neighbouring states that might offer more enticing gambling environments.

Worries Surrounding the Smoking Ban

While the smoking ban hasn’t yet gained traction within the legislature, Bally’s continues to express serious concerns. Their representatives emphasize that previous smoking bans in other regional casinos have had significant financial ramifications and that a similar measure in Rhode Island could result in a staggering $20 million reduction in gaming tax revenues.

In a recent interview, Bryan Hayes, the Senior Vice President of Gaming Operations at Foxwoods, indicated that the ongoing adjustments to smoking policies in neighbouring states make it challenging to predict consumer behaviour. With both Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods choosing to go smoke-free voluntarily after the COVID-19 pandemic, Bally’s now faces a crucial decision point as to how to adjust their marketing and operational strategies.

Conclusion

Bally’s Lincoln and Tiverton are at a crossroads, facing the dual challenges of potential smoking bans and the need for increased promotional funding. Their ongoing discussions with state lawmakers and the proposed changes to the funding structure could significantly alter the landscape of Rhode Island’s casino industry. As the situation develops, one thing remains clear: the financial well-being of these establishments and their contributions to the state’s economy hang in the balance.

Zac Brown’s New Residency at the Sphere: The Best Live Entertainment Near Las Vegas Casinos | 10BET

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Experience World-Class Entertainment and Las Vegas Casinos: Zac Brown Announces Live Music Residency at the Sphere

Zac Brown wasn’t joking when he hinted at a performance of live music for his band at the Sphere during his interview on the Theo Von podcast. While he left the specific year open, such a massive residency would undoubtedly draw huge crowds of travelers, many of whom would likely pair their concert experience with a high-stakes trip to explore the world-class Las Vegas casinos nearby.

Music festival
Image by bongbabyhousevn from Pixabay

Fast forward to now, and Brown has reiterated this exciting news. During a recent event, he approached vlogger Kai Cenat, who was livestreaming the American Music Awards at the Fontainebleau hotel, to share that they would be doing a residency at the Sphere this year.

Brown charmed Cenat by introducing himself and saying, “We’re doing a residency at the Sphere, end of the year, in Vegas.”

However, after sharing the details, Brown seemed to worry that his comments had been caught on camera. He leaned in to whisper something to Cenat, beginning with “We’re not releasing it until …” indicating there might be more secrets to share.

“We might have just leaked!” Cenat commented afterward, puzzled by who had just revealed such big news.

Upon realising the significance of the revelation, Cenat exclaimed, “Oh my god, big. He’s massive. What?!”

The Sphere does not officially discuss upcoming performances unless they are publicly announced. However, several dates remain open after the Eagles’ last performance on November 8, 2025, and leading into Kenny Chesney’s return on May 22, 2026. This leaves plenty of opportunities for Zac Brown’s band.

Last year, during his chat on the podcast, Brown expressed his admiration for the Sphere, stating, “It’s the greatest canvas ever created, and to be one of the first bands to go in there and do it, this is our masterpiece. This is our chance to show what we can really do as a band.” Roll out the red carpet, because this is shaping up to be an unmissable experience!

Reasons to get excited about the Zac Brown Band residency:

  • Live Performances: Experience live renditions of your favourite hits in a state-of-the-art venue.
  • Special Guests: There’s always a chance of surprise collaborations and special guests.
  • Unique Venue: The Sphere’s advanced technology offers an unparalleled audio-visual experience.
  • Fan Interaction: The residency is likely to provide more opportunities for fans to engage with the band.

Summarising the Buzz

Zac Brown’s announcement about a residency at the Las Vegas Sphere has sparked excitement among fans and the music industry alike. As one of the first bands to grace this unique venue, Brown aims to create a memorable experience that will showcase their musical prowess and highlight the impressive capabilities of the Sphere. With open dates following major performances, fans are buzzing about what this residency could entail.

Ballys Kim on Casino Development: Why the NYC Bid Was Overlooked Due to Trump

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Bally’s Kim Claims NYC Casino Development Bid Is Overlooked Due to Trump

Bally’s Corporation Chairman Soo Kim firmly believes that his company’s application for a casino licence in downstate New York is being unfairly affected by President Donald Trump’s perceived involvement. As Bally’s seeks to establish a casino resort in the Bronx, Kim points out the complexities arising from casino development and Trump’s historical ties to the area’s golf links.

Bally’s Ambitious Plans

  • Location: Proposed construction at Ferry Point Park in the Bronx.
  • Size: A multibillion-dollar project with a 500-kilometre square casino space.
  • Gaming Options: 5,100 gaming positions including slots and table games.
  • Accommodations: A planned 500-room hotel to support casino operations.
  • Facilities: Additional amenities will include a 2,000-seat event centre and full-service spa, alongside expansive parking for 4,700 vehicles.

Casino development
Image by u_azrr1basez from Pixabay
The entrance to Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point in the Bronx prior to Bally’s acquisition of the lease.

In 2023, Bally’s secured the lease for the golf course at Ferry Point Park from the Trump Organization in a deal estimated at $60 million. Notably, this deal involves a clause that could see Trump receiving an extra $115 million should Bally’s be granted permission to build a casino in this location.

Governmental Roadblocks

New York state lawmakers have recently enabled legislation that allows parkland to be repurposed for other developments, paving the way for competitor Steve Cohen’s casino plans at Citi Field. In contrast, Kim argues that his appeal for similar treatment has not been met with the same enthusiasm.

Approval from the city is essential for Bally’s to proceed with their casino project. However, a recent failure to secure a vote from the City Council on the Bally’s proposal has left Kim frustrated. He believes that political bias linked to Trump’s ties is a significant hindrance. Kim expressed disappointment in the council’s decisions, stating:

“They’re saying, ‘If Bally’s wins, Trump benefits.’ That’s ludicrous. Without a council vote, our project cannot move forward.”

Time is Running Out

The deadline for submissions for bids to secure one of the three available downstate New York gaming concessions, which include sports betting and table games, is set for June 28. The clock is ticking as the City Council’s legislative session continues until September. There must be urgency in Bally’s dealings to ensure they do not lose out on a potentially lucrative opportunity.

Conclusion

Soo Kim’s insistence on the challenges facing Bally’s is emblematic of the current competitive landscape for casino projects in New York City. As Bally’s continues to push for approval amid political hurdles and community dynamics, the outcome and its implications for the Bronx community and greater New York will remain a hot topic in discussions surrounding gaming and local authorities. The intricacies of gaming approvals in New York City underline the intersection of politics and corporate ambitions in the entertainment sector.

Steve Cohen’s Hard Rock NYC Project Nears Milestone with Expected Casino License Approval | 10BET

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Steve Cohen’s Hard Rock NYC Development Moves Closer to Securing a Vital Casino License

  • New York lawmakers have approved legislation to allow a casino in Queens
  • The bill enables state and city-controlled parkland to be developed commercially
  • NY Mets owner Steve Cohen partners with Hard Rock for the casino project

Billionaire Steve Cohen is one of eight contenders vying for three downstate New York casino licenses. As the founder of hedge fund Point72 Asset Management and the owner of the New York Mets, Cohen has garnered significant approval from the state legislature, paving the way for his ambitious $8 billion casino development project in partnership with Hard Rock International.

Stadium casino
Image by StockSnap from Pixabay

This past Tuesday, the New York Senate advanced a crucial bill with a 54-5 vote, which reconfigures approximately 50 acres of existing parking lots surrounding Cohen’s Citi Field.

Although primarily used for parking, this city-owned land is classified as “public parkland” under lease to the MLB team. Senate Bill 7121, introduced by Sen. John Liu (D-Queens), sanctions the “discontinuance of specific parkland within Flushing Meadows Corona Park in the Borough of Queens.”

With supportive companion legislation – Assembly Bill 6781A, passing with a resounding 138-7 in the state Assembly earlier this month – only New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s sign-off remains to clear the land for development.

Casino Project Approaching Proposal Stage

Cohen and Hard Rock’s grand proposal, branded as Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Metropolitan Park, aims to create an expansive casino and hotel complex featuring typical amenities like restaurants, bars, a spa, an indoor pool, and event spaces.

Extraordinary features intended to boost the probability of their bid being successful include:

  • A sizable 20-acre public greenspace
  • Affordable housing units
  • Community athletic fields
  • A playground and bike paths
  • A tailgate area for Mets games
  • Solar panels installed on all parking structures

“After years of community engagement, thousands of conversations, and the support of our local elected officials, we are one step closer to transforming these asphalt areas into spaces our neighbours can be truly proud of,” Cohen remarked following the Assembly’s approval of the parkland bill.

If Hochul consents or permits the bill to become law, Cohen and Hard Rock would also gain eligibility to bid for the licenses, having previously acquired the necessary Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP) green light from the NYC Department of Planning and secured a favourable City Environmental Quality Review outcome.

Each qualified bid will be assigned a local Community Advisory Committee (CAC), consisting of significant figures such as Hochul, NYC Mayor Eric Adams, and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, among others.

Opposition from Local Leaders

To secure a casino license, a simple majority from the CAC is required. However, opposition is anticipated, as some members are likely to express dissent.

Senator Jessica Ramos (D-Queens) has been notably vocal against the proposal, asserting that the state should not facilitate a billionaire in establishing a lavish Las Vegas-like casino in the community. She has stated:

“After decades of public neglect, it feels like the first serious proposal on the table is a casino. That is not the kind of development that my community deserves. Casinos may bring lights, but they also cast shadows. I cast my vote… in defence of economic development that is dignified, sustainable, and meets the needs of working people—not merely the interests of a billionaire.”

Ultimately, Ramos highlights that the issue transcends just a building or parkland; it’s fundamentally about power dynamics within the community. “It’s about whether areas like mine are treated as partners or mere pawns,” she declared.

Summary

In conclusion, Steve Cohen’s partnership with Hard Rock International has propelled a proposed casino venture in Queens closer to reality, following essential legislative backing. While the community expresses mixed reactions, including significant opposition, this development aims to reshape public perception and infrastructure in the borough. The proposal promises numerous amenities, alongside a vision to improve local living standards while generating economic opportunities for the neighborhood.

If Bally’s Wins Bronx Casino License and Casino Development, Trump Gets $115M Windfall

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If Bally’s Wins Bronx Casino License in Casino Development, Trump Gets $115M Windfall

  • Potential payment included in agreement to acquire golf course operating rights
  • Bally’s bought lease rights for Ferry Point course in 2023

If Bally’s is able to secure a casino license in the Bronx, the subsequent casino development would result in a substantial $115 million payment to the Trump Organization, which previously managed the golf course where Bally’s plans to build its casino hotel.

Casino development
Image by Annonceslegales from Pixabay

In late 2023, Bally’s entered into an agreement with the Trump Organization, controlled by Trump’s sons, to obtain the lease for Trump Golf Links at Ferry Point. Initially thought to be a $60 million purchase, the contract included a clause mandating an additional $115 million payment if a gaming venue is established at the site.

According to a June 2023 letter from Donald Trump Jr. to Bally’s then President George Papanier, Bally’s has committed to pay this sum upon receiving a non-appeal Gaming License (referred to as a ‘Gaming Event’).

Bally’s further agrees that if awarded a non-appealable Gaming License, it shall make a separate non-refundable payment to Trump in the amount of $115 million,” noted the letter.

Politicians from the Bronx and New York City celebrated Bally’s action to remove Trump’s name from the golf course in January 2024.

If Bally’s Wins Bronx Casino Bid, it Must Pay Trump Quickly

Rhode Island-based Bally’s is competing with eleven other applicants for three downstate casino licenses. If successful, Bally’s must promptly pass the $115 million payment to avoid significant interest penalties.

Trump Jr.’s communication with Papanier specified that the gaming company has ten days to process this payment after a ‘Gaming Event’ occurs. Failure to deliver the payment results in a 10% annual interest penalty, calculated based on the days elapsed since the due date.

This particular letter has a notable past; it was cited as evidence during the state’s suit against President Trump, alleging he inflated the value of Trump Organization assets to negotiate superior loan conditions.

Before Trump won the 2016 presidential election, an agreement was reached to extend the lease of Ferry Point by an additional twenty years. However, after the January 6, 2021, riot at the US Capitol, then-New York Mayor Bill de Blasio endeavoured to terminate the city’s agreement with Trump’s company. In April 2022, a Manhattan Supreme Court judge ruled that de Blasio exceeded his authority, permitting the golf course to stay under Trump’s management.

Positive Signs for Bronx Casino Initiative

Though competition for the three downstate licenses is intense, and there exists some opposition against a Bronx casino, supportive momentum is building.

Recently, Senator Nathalia Fernandez and Assemblyman Mike Benedetto—Democrats representing the golf course area—introduced legislation to potentially rescind the property’s parkland designation. Altering this classification is essential for Bally’s to pursue a gaming license.

Moreover, Bally’s has indicated intentions to offer up to a 10% equity stake in the Bronx casino hotel to local residents, signalling a commitment to community involvement!

Key Takeaways

  • If Bally’s wins the Bronx casino license, it will pay Trump $115 million.
  • Politicians have welcomed the removal of Trump’s name from the golf course.
  • Bally’s has until ten days after a gaming license is awarded to pay, or it faces penalties.
  • Efforts to strip the parkland designation could enable the casino project to proceed.
  • Bally’s plans to involve the community by selling a stake in the venture.

Summary: Should Bally’s secure the Bronx casino license, it will trigger a significant $115 million payment to the Trump Organization linked to an earlier lease agreement. The unfolding events illustrate the intertwined dynamics of political support, community engagement, and corporate interests in New York’s evolving casino landscape.

Prediction Markets: California Gubernatorial Candidate Langford Buys Contracts on His Own Victory | 10BET

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Betting on the Outcome: California Gubernatorial Langford Buys Prediction Market Contracts on Himself

  • Republican candidate bets nearly $100 on his own success.
  • Kalshi has been offering US political contracts since before the 2024 presidential election.

In the high-stakes arena of political forecasting, Kyle Langford is treating the 2026 California gubernatorial race like a premium sportsbook by betting on his own victory. By placing wagers on himself through Kalshi, a platform that functions as a sophisticated prediction market, Langford is turning political speculation into a live commodity, allowing traders to gamble on the outcome of the election much like they would on a casino floor.

Political betting
Image by eGamingImagery from Pixabay

On the platform, Langford shared on X (formerly Twitter) that he purchased $98.76 worth of Kalshi “yes” contracts that assert he will be the next governor of California. At the time of his bet, Kalshi had Langford’s chances of winning pegged at a mere 6%.

If Langford manages to clinch victory, he stands to gain significantly from this bet. His political action committee (PAC) would enable him to turn his $98.76 wager into a profit of approximately $306.32.

Kalshi has been at the forefront of the prediction markets, often clashing with regulations due to the nature of its offerings, which include betting on political outcomes—something traditional sportsbooks are prohibited from doing. Recently, Kalshi has had heated exchanges with the US Commodities Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). For context, in October 2022, the CFTC ordered Kalshi to cease all contracts tied to US political races.

In a surprising turn, Kalshi contested this directive, claiming it overstepped legal boundaries. The platform eventually won the right to resume political contracts ahead of the 2024 presidential race, which sparked newfound interest in prediction markets. Just recently, the CFTC voted to withdraw their appeal against Kalshi’s election market approaches.

Kalshi Predicts Long Odds For Republicans in California

California has been a stronghold for Democrats, with Republican Arnold Schwarzenegger being the only Republican governor in over 20 years. Given the current political landscape, Kalshi’s odds denote a stark challenge for Langford and his fellow Republicans as we head towards the November 2026 elections.

election race
Image by planet_fox from Pixabay

With current figures indicating little profit on “yes” contracts for Democrat candidates and inherent risks attached to GOP candidates, the dollar volume for betting on Langford remains relatively low—only registering about $3,106.

Among those entering the race, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa (D) is at the forefront with a 21% chance, a figure that reveals that more Democrats have better odds than Langford, the leading Republican figure.

Another factor complicating Langford’s campaign is California’s “jungle” primary system. This unconventional system allows the top two voter-getters, regardless of party affiliation, to move forward to the general election. Therefore, it is plausible that two Democrats will face off in November 2026, further diminishing the chances for Langford.

Regulatory Scrutiny: Kalshi’s Sports Offerings

Kalshi is not just limited to political contracts; it also features a variety of prediction markets ranging from cryptocurrency to pop culture. However, the expansion into sports contracts has drawn increasing scrutiny from state regulators. Despite Kalshi’s sports contracts accounting for a minuscule slice of the regulated domestic sports betting pie, state concerns have amplified about potential competition burdens on traditional sportsbooks.

In the past week, multiple states including Arizona, Illinois, and Nevada, have sent cease and desist letters to Kalshi, arguing it lacks the necessary gaming licenses to operate legally in those jurisdictions.

Wrapping Up

Langford’s bet is an audacious move within a challenging political landscape. While certainly ambitious, the odds stacked against him highlight the hurdles awaiting Republican candidates in California. Whether Langford’s gamble pays off will unfold as the election progresses.