Your Daily Asia Gaming eBrief: Sitrep on Star

Good Morning. The inquiry into Star Sydney’s suitability to hold a license in NSW has just been extended from the initial deadline of June 30, 2022 to August 31, 2022. Our infographic and write-up today gives a “sitrep” on Star’s inquiry to date - including a full list of allegations leveled towards the operator so far. We also hear from industry experts about what the potential consequences for Star are in light of the recent inquiry findings.

What you need to know

• Star Entertainment’s chief legal counsel has revealed that serious concerns about junket operator Suncity may have been discussed with the board in un-documented calls.
• A Thai parliamentary committee established to evaluate the potential of legalizing integrated resorts has completed its work and is ready to submit its report next month in another step forward towards opening what could be one of Asia's largest markets.
• The Indian government is reportedly considering a private members bill which aims to introduce a regulatory regime for online gaming and curb illegal operators, though the bill has already been met with resistance. 
• Genting Singapore has confirmed it will be refurbishing three of its hotels, including Hard Rock Hotel Singapore, Hotel Michael and Festive Hotel, with works starting from 2Q22.

On the radar

• Sands cut 3,000 non-local workers since start of pandemic.
• Genting Malaysia 1Q22 EBITDA to grow 26%: JPM.
• Light & Wonder reduces outstanding debt by $4.8 billion. 
• Okada Manila launches online gaming, posts 17.6% gain in 1Q21 GGR YoY.
• MGM confident of meeting re-tender needs, to pay $5.8m extension fee.

What the papers say

• Lim Kok Thay registers new company called Resorts World Cruises.
• Senate wraps up probe into esabong disapperances, little progress made.  
• HKJC resumes cross-border horse movements as Covid eases.
• Macau sees 55,953 visitors in the first three days of Easter, down from 2021.
• UK Gambling Commission sets new rules aimed at gambling harm. 
• Construction workers who sued IPI awarded $687,800 in attorney fees.

AGB Intelligence

BY THE NUMB3RS

Star inquiry: Where are we at?

Industry Updates

• Pragmatic Play releases Chicken Chase, adding lower volatility to program.
• Pragmatic Play seeks out patterns in Eye of Cleopatra.
• Everi buys marketing platform XUVI to bolster loyalty program range.
• Light & Wonder extends partnership with U.K.'s Entain through to 2030.
• PopOk Gaming showcases first ever Fruit Roulette game.

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