WATCH: Casino News Roundup - May 23, 2025

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

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

"It’s Friday, May 23. This is your Casino News Roundup.

"Israeli gaming entrepreneur Ory Weihs is making headlines with his latest initiative to bring charity poker to Israel. Organizing a tournament outside Tel Aviv to benefit the Israeli Defense Forces Widows and Orphans Organization, Weihs is leveraging his business expertise to ensure all proceeds go directly to those in need.

"This marks the first time such an event is being held in Israel, with hopes it will become an annual tradition. Weihs, a veteran of the online gaming industry and founder of XLMedia, emphasizes a no-overhead model, matching donations and involving the community to make a meaningful impact.

"The UK Gambling Commission has reported promising progress in its financial risk assessment pilot aimed at promoting safer gambling. Led by Helen Rhodes, the initiative has successfully assessed about 860,000 accounts across three credit reference agencies, with 97 percent able to undergo frictionless checks. 

"This is a notable improvement from 95 percent in the first phase and indicates that these assessments can be smoothly integrated into existing operations.

"Only a small fraction, about 0.1 percent, may require more detailed, non-frictionless evaluations, minimizing disruption to customers. Analysis shows that high-spending players are more likely to exhibit signs of financial distress, such as defaults, supporting targeted interventions.

"Data sharing concluded in April, and further analysis is expected over the summer to refine methods and inform future policies. The overall outlook is positive for using these assessments to boost responsible gambling both online and in land-based casinos.

"Industry expert Fredric Gushin of Spectrum Gaming Group predicts that Thailand’s long-awaited casino legalization may not occur until 2030 or 2031, although a tentative opening, possibly of a temporary casino, could happen as early as 2028 or 2029.

"Speaking at G2E Asia in Macau, Gushin emphasized that the process will be gradual, requiring careful planning, a robust regulatory framework, and strong political and public support.

"He highlighted that legal casinos could significantly boost Thailand’s tourism and economy but stressed the importance of transparency, anti-money laundering measures, and responsible gaming policies modeled on successful destinations like Singapore and Macau.

"Gushin also warned of potential setbacks, citing Japan’s delays and issues with selecting suitable operators. He advised that patience, diligent governance, and learning from global experiences are essential to ensuring a smooth and beneficial legalization process.

"And finally: Get out your spandex leotards and outrageous costumes. There are strong rumors that WrestleMania could return to Las Vegas in 2026 after New Orleans officials were informed they would no longer host the event.

"Despite initial plans for New Orleans to host WrestleMania 42, WWE appears to be leaning toward bringing the show back to Las Vegas, where it set attendance and revenue records this year.

"While nothing has been officially confirmed, industry insiders suggest Las Vegas’s successful hosting of WrestleMania 41 and its impressive infrastructure might give it the edge for 2026. Fans and city officials alike are eagerly awaiting official word on where the biggest wrestling event of the year will take place.

"That’s it for now. You can read all these news stories and more on our website at Casinos.com. Don’t forget to subscribe and sign up for all our special offers and free giveaways. Bye for now."