WATCH: Casino News Roundup - April 8, 2025

Our news reporter, Alan Evans, brings you the latest news from the casino industry on April 8, 2025. 

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

"The Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the UK Gambling Commission to enhance cooperation and information sharing between the two regulators.   

"CEO Anne Marie Caulfield emphasised the importance of this agreement for effectively discharging their regulatory responsibilities, as both jurisdictions share many operators and practices. 

"The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) held a roundtable in April with industry leaders and shadow DCMS representatives to discuss the future of the UK's gambling sector, addressing challenges like responsible gambling and regulatory developments.   

"CEO Grainne Hurst emphasised the importance of collaboration with policymakers to balance economic growth and consumer protections, while also highlighting the sector’s significant contributions to the economy and jobs. 

"The Swedish government has voted to close state-owned Casino Cosmopol, marking the end of land-based casinos in Sweden due to declining profitability and the rise of online gambling.  

"The closure will affect 240 employees and follows previous shutdowns of casinos in Sundsvall, Gothenburg, and Malmo, as the last remaining casino is set to close by January 1, 2026. 

"A woman from Hastings, Lisa Hills, won £2,000 while playing Bingo Express at Deluxe Bingo on a night out with friends.  

"Excited by her win, Lisa shared the prize with her friends, expressing it was a thrilling experience as she's been attending bingo sessions for years.  

"A new online resource named Bet Well, developed by experts including Dr Sally Gainsbury, aims to revolutionise sports betting management by allowing users to track and manage their gambling activities across various platforms, thereby promoting responsible gambling practices.  

"Currently in a trial phase and supported by the University of Sydney, Bet Well seeks to engage users with a neutral and empowering tool that highlights their spending patterns, helping them make informed and responsible betting decisions. 

"Donald Trump could receive a $115 million payout if Bally’s wins a downstate casino licence in New York, due to a clause in their agreement for the former Trump Links golf course.  

"Local politicians have expressed mixed feelings about the potential payment to Trump, with some deeming it an embarrassment while others worry it could negatively affect Bally’s chances in the competitive bidding process.  

"Maine legislators have introduced a new bill allowing the Wabanaki Nation tribes to operate online casinos, following last year's unsuccessful attempt.  

"The bill aims to create economic opportunities for these tribes while facing opposition from existing casinos and concerns about increased gambling addiction. 

"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."