WATCH: Casino News Roundup - May 16, 2025

Our news reporter, Alan Evans, brings you the latest news from the casino industry on May 16, 2025. 

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

"It’s Friday, May 16. This is your Casino News Roundup.

"Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley declared May 15, 2025, as International Casinos Day. The occasion featured the inaugural International Casino Awards, recognizing excellence across various categories.

"MrQ Casino, a leading U.K.-based online platform established in 2018, also announced its sponsorship of International Casinos Day, now celebrated annually on May 15.

"The event, organized by Casinos.com, honors the history, cultural significance, and economic impact of casinos worldwide, highlighting their evolution from ancient game chambers to modern entertainment hubs.

"The U.K. Gambling Commission has fined Spreadex £2 million due to significant failures in anti-money laundering and social responsibility measures, including inadequate risk assessments, over-reliance on customer self-reporting, and insufficient intervention for gambling harm.

"This marks its second enforcement action after a previous settlement in 2022. The regulator emphasized the importance of robust policies and timely interventions to protect consumers and ensure industry compliance.

"The New York City Planning Commission has approved a land-use application for the proposed $3 billion Coney Island casino, known as The Coney, developed by Thor Equities and partners. This marks a significant step forward despite local opposition.

"The project, which includes a casino destination, concert venue, retail space, and public parks across three blocks along Surf Avenue, now awaits a public hearing and final approval from the City Council.

"Competing with around 10 other proposals for just three downstate casino licenses, The Coney faces stiff industry competition. Existing racinos like Empire City and Resorts World are seen as frontrunners, while major players like Caesars and Wynn Resorts are also vying for a slice of New York’s burgeoning gaming market.

"NBA star Draymond Green is under scrutiny after lip readers suggested he referenced the point spread during a recent game between the Warriors and Timberwolves, where Minnesota won but failed to cover the 5.5-point spread.

"Green appeared to say “five and a half” and “spread” on the sideline, sparking speculation about potential betting knowledge. The NBA has not yet responded, and it remains unclear if any rules were broken, but the incident has reignited concerns over betting scandals in the league.

"At the recent NEXT.io event in Valletta, Malta, a lively debate unfolded over the state of responsible gambling, with industry experts questioning whether current measures are genuine or just public relations.

"Panelists Bill Pascrell III and Chris Dalli discussed the challenges of regulation, emphasizing the potential of AI and technology to identify problem gambling behaviors early, while cautioning against overregulation that stifles innovation.

"They highlighted the importance of collaboration between regulators and operators, focusing on targeted solutions like black market crackdowns and nuanced, tech-driven approaches to balance consumer protection with entertainment.

"The discussion underscored the need for smarter regulation that addresses societal issues without punishing responsible players or industry progress.

"A new survey ranking Las Vegas casinos by the cleanliness of their toilets has revealed that The Palazzo at The Venetian takes top honors, praised for its spotless and fragrant facilities.

"Other highly rated venues include South Point Hotel and Casino, known for its large, clean bathrooms, and the Orleans Hotel, appreciated for its quirky, well-maintained restrooms. Conversely, MGM Grand and Bellagio received the lowest scores due to reports of clogged toilets and unpleasant odors.

"The rankings were based on reviews from Tripadvisor, combined with expert assessments, highlighting the importance of hygiene even in the lively Las Vegas casino scene.

"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."