Mississippi Gulf Coast Casino Development Advances Following Major Tidelands Legal Victory

• Mississippi tidelands on private property aren’t owned by the state, another court ruling has found
• Tidelands are lands covered and uncovered daily by tidal water
• The latest court ruling could allow new casinos to come to Biloxi

State judges in Mississippi have issued a landmark ruling upholding that Gulf Coast casinos retain ownership of the local tidelands attached to their properties. This decision serves as a massive victory for the gaming sector, providing the legal certainty necessary to fuel large-scale casino development and long-term infrastructure growth. By securing these coastal land rights, the ruling clears a path for ambitious new expansions and sophisticated casino development projects throughout the Biloxi region.

Last Friday, Harrison Chancery Court Judge Jim Persons ruled in favour of Harrah’s Gulf Coast Hotel & Casino Biloxi in a dispute with Mississippi Secretary of State Michael Watson. The ruling determined that a parcel of waterfront land measuring approximately 1.5 acres on Biloxi Bay is entirely owned by the casino.

Watson argued that the tideland property was state-controlled, claiming it originated from the 1784 Spanish Land Grant when Mississippi was established. However, Judge Persons referenced the Mississippi Supreme Court’s March 2023 opinion, which clearly stated that the state cannot claim tidelands that are a part of private property lots.

Key Impacts of the Rulings

The rulings passed by the Mississippi Supreme Court and Judge Persons have significant implications for both existing casinos and potential new developments. Here’s an overview of the effect of these legal outcomes:

• Proposed casino developments can now apply for state-issued gaming licences through the Mississippi Gaming Commission (MGC).
• Public pressure has been aimed at Watson for attempting to restrict new casino constructions in response to lobbying from current casinos that assert that Biloxi has reached its capacity for gaming establishments.
• In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, state legislation allowed casinos to build inland structures that are within 800 feet of the historic high tide line.

Despite ceasing to use shoreland, casinos have been obliged to make payments for tideland leases to the state. Harrah’s allocated approximately $700K to the Tidelands Trust Fund Program in the prior year, which was established to harmonise public and private interests concerning tidelands use.

Future Casino Proposals

Recent decisions have opened the doors for several new casino projects. Notably, last December, the MGC approved the application for the Tullis Garden Hotel and Casino, proposed by Tennessee businessman Israel Schwartz. This project features:

• An 11-story hotel with 300 rooms
• 900 slot machines
• 35 table games
• A sportsbook

The proposed site will also include a full-scale replica of the Tullis-Toledano Manor, a historic Greek Revival mansion lost to Hurricane Katrina.

Nearby, developer Danny Conwill aims to erect a 1,300-room hotel and casino with a greater number of slots and tables, alongside another sportsbook. The city has consented to a tidelands lease, provided Conwill includes a public, accessible pier in his plans.

Another 5 miles along the Gulf, Ray Wooldridge has proposed a casino project at the Big Play Entertainment Center, which likewise includes stipulations to build a local pier.

Conclusion

As the Mississippi Gulf Coast continues to develop its casino landscape rapidly, the recent legal rulings have set a precedent for further growth in the industry. The endorsement of local ownership of tidelands not only benefits current operators but also opens the field for new entrants in the market, promising exhilarating prospects for locals and tourists alike.

With ongoing developments and potential expansions, the Mississippi Gulf Coast is poised to remain a vibrant hub for gaming enthusiasts.

PointsBet’s Strategic Move in Sports Betting: How the Betr Acquisition Bid Could Reshape the Canadian Market

The landscape of the gaming industry is shifting rapidly, and PointsBet’s sale of its Canadian operation to Hard Rock Digital marks a pivotal moment for the future of sports betting in the region. This significant business deal brings a new powerhouse into the market, bringing the excitement of high-stakes wagering and enhanced sports betting options one step closer to reality today.

Betr Proposal “Superior”

In a recent statement, the PointsBet board expressed their belief that the acquisition bid from Betr Entertainment Ltd. “could reasonably be expected to lead to a Superior Proposal” compared to the competing bid from Japanese company MIXI Inc.

The company is now moving forward with a mutual due diligence assessment with Betr, a customary procedure in such transactions. This initial phase will focus on both the value of synergies and the equity aspect of the proposal, with the understanding that the valuation for shareholders will heavily depend on these factors, given that the proposal contemplates a 57% cash and 43% scrip funding mix.

Due Diligence Period Ahead

In Australia, the term ‘scrip’ typically refers to shares issued by a company instead of cash.

While this announcement seems to favour Betr, the board’s stance regarding MIXI’s bid remains resilient. The PointsBet Board is dedicated to recommending that PointsBet shareholders vote in favour of the MIXI scheme as long as no Superior Proposal arises and continues to be supported by the Independent Expert’s conclusions.

Betr currently holds a 19.9% share in PointsBet, making it the largest shareholder. Following a merger with BlueBet Holdings in July 2024, the company adopted the Betr brand to bolster its position in the market.

Deal in Place to Sell PointsBet Canada

The board of PointsBet previously indicated acceptance of a $220 million USD takeover bid from MIXI in February, initially expressing concerns about the level of debt reliance in Betr’s plans.

Recent reports suggest that Betr has sharpened its bid from February to a total of AU $360 million (approx. USD $229.2 million), integrating a mix of cash and shares. In comparison, MIXI’s proposal stood at AU $350 million in April.

A significant portion of Betr’s latest bid entails the sale of PointsBet Canada, with Hard Rock being the prospective buyer. A release dated April 29 mentioned a “non-binding proposal” from Seminole Hard Rock Digital, LLC to acquire relevant assets relating to PointsBet’s Canadian operations, subject to various conditions.

Hard Rock intends to pay Betr USD $29.6 million for PointsBet Canada, contingent on the fulfillment of the Betr deal in Australia.

Industry insiders have reported that Hard Rock is preparing to apply for an iGaming licence through the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario. However, representatives from the AGCO confirmed that they had yet to receive any application for registration from Hard Rock Digital.

When approached for comments, a representative for PointsBet Canada declined to provide a statement.

In summary, the dynamics surrounding the acquisition of PointsBet Canada are evolving, with the interest from Betr potentially reshaping the competitive landscape in the Canadian gaming market. As developments unfold, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the outcomes of the due diligence assessments and the strategic directions of both Betr and PointsBet.

New FTC Rules: Casino Resorts Must Now Include All Resort Fees in Upfront Rates

Beginning May 12, 2025, a significant regulatory shift will change how travelers book their stays at premier casino resorts and other short-term accommodation providers. Under this new mandate, these establishments are required to include all mandatory charges—such as resort fees—within their upfront advertised rates, excluding only taxes. This rule is designed to bring much-needed transparency to the industry, protecting guests from the hidden fees that have frequently caused frustration when visiting luxury casino resorts.

Key Points of the New FTC Rule

• Mandatory Fees Inclusion: Hotels must include all mandatory fees in the price that is prominently advertised.
• Resort Fees Common: Many casino hotels charge resort fees, which can significantly increase the total cost of a stay.
• Upfront Charges: The new rules do not compel hotels to abolish resort fees but instead require that these fees be included in the visible price before booking.

In December, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) introduced its “Junk Fees Rule” targeting misleading pricing tactics that have plagued the hospitality industry. This regulation combats “bait-and-switch” pricing methods where customers are lured in by low initial rates, only to discover significant additional costs during the checkout process, such as resort fees, facility fees, and applicable destination fees.

According to the FTC, “The Rule bans bait-and-switch pricing and dishonest tactics that mislead customers about fees in the hotel and ticketing industries. These misleading practices harm consumers and undercut honest businesses.”

Casinos Adapting to the New Rules

Following the announcement of the FTC regulations, many major hotel chains, including MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment, have already begun updating their booking systems to reflect these changes. For instance:

• For a stay on June 13 at Caesars Palace, the nightly rate advertised is $243 before taxes. Previously, the lower advertised rate was $188, but the resort fee of $55 will now be explicitly included in that price.

While taxes and governmental charges still have exemptions from inclusion in the total price, any charges for optional amenities and services must be reported as part of the booking total when requested by a consumer.

A business can exclude optional fees from the total price unless the consumer has requested these additional services, in which case all charges must be communicated up front before final payment is required, stated the FTC.

The FTC is dedicated to safeguarding the public from deceitful business practices and maintaining fair competition among businesses.

Consumer Response

Consumer groups have welcomed this regulation. Lauren Wolfe, who founded the Kill Resort Fees campaign and serves as legal counsel for Travelers United, stated that the FTC’s order empowers consumers to make more informed choices when booking hotels.

Violating the FTC regulations could lead to penalties exceeding $50,000 for non-compliant hotels.

Summary

In summary, the new FTC regulations require all casinos and hotel operators to include mandatory fees in their advertised rates to enhance transparency and consumer rights. By implementing these changes, the FTC aims to protect consumers better and promote fair pricing practices across the hospitality industry.

Super Group Ready to Dominate the Alberta Online iGaming Market

As the landscape of digital entertainment evolves, Super Group Ltd., the powerhouse behind the Betway sportsbook, is strategically positioning itself to dominate the expanding online iGaming sector in Alberta. With a launch anticipated in Q1 2026, the company aims to transplant its proven operational expertise from Ontario to this new regulated market. This move is designed to accelerate Super Group’s growth and solidify its leadership within the rapidly accelerating Canadian online iGaming industry.

Key Highlights from Super Group’s Recent Investor Call

• Market Growth: The company reported a 13% year-over-year increase in the Canadian market as of Q1 2025.
• Regulatory Preparedness: Super Group is waiting for final regulatory approvals in Alberta, with a robust product development underway.
• Financial Performance: For Q1 2025, Super Group achieved a total revenue of US$516.8 million, a 25% increase compared to the previous year.

Understanding Super Group’s Competitive Advantage

As the regulated iGaming market in Alberta prepares to open, Super Group’s experiences in Ontario are invaluable. The company operates several brands, including Betway, which is already licensed in Ontario and performing well.

Market Insights

According to H2 Gambling Capital, Super Group holds an 8% market share in Ontario, placing it behind key competitors like Bet365 and FanDuel. This competitive positioning reflects Super Group’s strategy to expand while maintaining operational excellence.

Financial Progress and Future Plans

Super Group’s CEO, Neal Menashe, elaborated on their solid Q1 2025 revenue results and discussed their plans for growth in the U.S. and other markets, including potential mergers and acquisitions to bolster their brand portfolio further.

• Q1 2025 Financial Results: Overall profit was reported at US$59.4 million.
• Cash Flow Strength: With US$351 million in unrestricted cash, Super Group is well-prepared to optimize opportunities as they arise.
• Customer Engagement: Approximately 80% of their business is from the casino sector, helping to sustain robust growth rates.

The Path Ahead for Alberta’s iGaming Market

Menashe highlighted that Alberta’s regulations are currently being finalised. The expectation is to see the market live possibly in late 2026. Super Group aims to be fully prepared when that day comes:

“We have learned valuable lessons from our Ontario introduction and are anxious to apply these for a successful rollout in Alberta.”

As they gear up for this launch, all eyes are on how Super Group will deploy its strategies and product offerings to attract a new customer base in Alberta.

Conclusion

In summary, Super Group is set to make significant strides in Alberta’s iGaming market following its successful performance in Ontario. With substantial revenue, a robust product, and an effective growth strategy, Super Group appears to be well-prepared to take advantage of the emerging opportunities in Alberta’s online gaming landscape.

New Hampshire Lawmakers Consider Expanding Charitable Gaming Through Slot Machines

• New Hampshire doesn’t have traditional casinos
• Casinos in the state benefit charities
• Slots are prohibited, but that could soon change

The 14 casinos operating in New Hampshire, which support charitable gaming organizations, might soon be allowed to trade their historical horse racing terminals for traditional Las Vegas-style slot machines.

Lawmakers in Concord are responding to Governor Kelly Ayotte’s request to broaden gaming options in the Granite State, aiming to enhance funding for numerous nonprofits that the casinos support and also boost state revenue.

Currently, casinos can contribute to up to two charitable causes in a single day, with 35% of the gross gaming revenue from historical horse racing (HHR) and table games allocated to nonprofit organisations. The state garners 25%, while the remaining 40% is retained by the casino itself.

During her recent budget proposal, Governor Ayotte initiated the push for legislation that would enable these slot games. She proposed increasing the state’s share of gaming revenue to 30% in exchange for integrating these more attractive gaming choices.

Lawmakers Weigh Expansion

New Hampshire’s charitable gaming framework supports approximately 800 nonprofits each year. However, there’s growing concern from smaller organisations about their ability to secure time slots within casinos.

Each charity can appear as a benefactor at a casino for a maximum of 10 days annually. The five Revo Casino venues located in Conway, Dover, Keene, Lebanon, and Manchester collectively contributed over $15 million in charitable donations last year to about 400 organisations. Interested charities can apply through an online application form provided by Revo.

Governor Ayotte’s administration believes that permitting slot machines—which operate at a speed that completes a play or spin roughly five seconds faster than historical horse racing machines and are cheaper to maintain—could yield an additional $70 million in annual funding for nonprofits. Nevertheless, state legislators wish to ensure that charities previously voicing calendar availability issues are also accommodated if slots or similar video lottery terminals make their way into New Hampshire’s gaming scene.

The charities already benefiting from the casino’s existing rotation have noted substantial advantages. Jane Goodman, the executive director of Nashua Soup Kitchen & Shelter, expressed the significance of receiving financial help from charitable gaming, highlighting how it aids in crucial food supplies for those in need.

“The casino assigns us our dates, and then we just pick up our check. It’s pretty simple,” she explained about the straightforward process.

In June 2023, former Governor Chris Sununu approved legislation raising the maximum bet for table games from $10 to $50, while also increasing the loss threshold for players from $150 to $2,500 per game.

iGaming on Hold

Earlier this year, discussions revolved around legislation to authorise iGaming in New Hampshire similar to its retail and online sports gambling operations.

Senate Bill 168, proposed by State Senator Tim Lang and three fellow Republican Senators, aimed to enable the New Hampshire Lottery to issue three to six licenses for online casinos, taxing internet gross gaming revenue (GGR) at a rate of 45%. This tax revenue would potentially support various vulnerable groups within the state, including the elderly and those with disabilities. Unfortunately, SB168 was dismissed by the Senate Ways and Means Committee.

Conclusion

New Hampshire stands at a pivotal juncture that could significantly alter its charitable gaming landscape. The proposed changes promise to enhance financial support for numerous nonprofit organisations while also adapting to evolving gaming preferences. By embracing slot machines, New Hampshire could interlace traditional gaming charm with contemporary demands, ensuring a future where both the state and its cherished charities thrive.