WATCH: Casino News Roundup - April 23, 2025

Our news reporter, Alan Evans, brings you the latest news from the casino industry on April 23, 2025. 

Can't watch right now? Here's the full transcript:

"It’s Wednesday, April 23. This is your Casinos.com news roundup.

"The Ghanaian government has scrapped its tax on gambling companies two years after introducing the reform. The reasoning behind the decision includes several concerns, such as the exodus of gamblers to unregulated online casinos. 

"There were also concerns over the failure to meet revenue expectations and a decline in betting activity due to the 10% tax burden on online casinos.

"As Ghana navigates this new chapter, its experience will undoubtedly inform other jurisdictions grappling with similar issues, highlighting the nuanced interplay between policy, industry dynamics and public welfare.

"The Philippines is battling to get money laundering under control, with huge efforts being made by the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC).

"The AMLC is intensifying its scrutiny of online gambling activities to identify potential risks related to money laundering and terrorism financing. Eli Remolona, the governor of Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and chair of the AMLC, emphasized the importance of a comprehensive risk assessment as the country continues to combat the illicit flow of funds.

"Two Sky News reporters have spoken about being deepfaked with AI technologies for the benefit of unregulated gambling site apps.

"Deepfake technology was used to manipulate the two news presenters in order to lend credibility to false claims for an online gambling app, Heavenly Sphere.

"In a news video on social media, science and tech reporter Mickey Carroll was deepfaked having a conversation with news reporter Matt Barbet, who spoke in an Australian accent despite being from North Wales. Mickey had become “Olivia,” who had apparently won £500,000 on a mobile game and bought her dream car.

"Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City announced $50 million in renovations on Monday, with the new amenities and upgrades scheduled to be completed this summer.

"The announced improvements include new restaurants, upgraded hotel rooms and an indoor mini golf course.

"The Ocean’s 18 Mini Golf & Bar will be perhaps the most dramatic addition to Ocean Casino this summer. The facility will cover approximately 8,000 square feet across two floors and will utilize holographic installations using technology similar to that seen at the Sphere in Las Vegas. That includes a hologram of a 12-foot-long great white shark hovering above the bar. Ocean Casino Resort says the course is expected to open late this summer.

"Fans of YouTuber MrBeast shelled out $1,000 each to attend the “MrBeast Experience” at Resorts World Las Vegas, a three-day event beginning Sunday, April 13, and ending Tuesday, April 15. But guests soon realized the experience wasn’t what they were expecting, leaving many outraged and demanding refunds from MrBeast and the resort.

"The MrBeast Experience was first announced via a press release in late January and advertised a wide range of attractions for fans who wanted an immersive experience.

"And finally, have you got a cool £411 million to spare? The 13 Hotel in Macau is up for sale for £411.6 million. The hotel is the epitome of ultra-luxury, with the smallest suite being 28 square meters. There are 200 palatial multi-level villas, all uniquely designed and equipped with a private elevator lobby.

"All rooms have 24-hour butler service, and there are also 34 Rolls-Royce Phantoms available for guest use. Each room cost $7 million to build, and the most expensive suite costs $100,000 per night. The hotel was built by billionaire Stephen Hung.

"That’s it for now. Don’t forget to visit Casinos.com to subscribe and sign up for all our special offers and free giveaways.

"Bye for now."