Strengthening Online Gambling Regulation: Ontarios Plan to Crack Down on Illegal Gaming Sites | 10BET

January 26, 2026/in Blog/by admin

Strengthening Online Gambling Regulation: Ontario’s Move to Crack Down on Illegal Gaming Sites

The Attorney General addressed the Canadian Gaming Summit in Toronto, delivering a pivotal keynote focused on the evolving landscape of online gambling regulation. As the industry expands, the discussion centered on how legislative frameworks must adapt to ensure player safety and maintain market integrity within the digital space.

Industry looks to pivot to enforcement against unregulated sites three years after market launch
Ontario market still has 16%-17% of residents using unregulated gaming sites

Recently, Ontario has ramped up its efforts to tackle illegal gaming sites, with comments from key industry figures like Doug Downey, the Attorney General of Ontario, and Dave Forestell, Chair of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). This comes three years after the regulated online gambling market opened its doors.

Ontario Attorney General Doug Downey and AGCO Chair Dave Forestell at the Canadian Gaming Summit

During a discussion at the Canadian Gaming Summit, Doug Downey stressed the shift in tone regarding illegal gaming operators. He noted, ‘When we launched the market in April of 2022, around 70% of players were participating in the grey or unregulated market. Now, I prefer to refer to this as the illegal market.’ This change of language reflects a reinforced strategy towards enforcement.

In May, the AGCO sent communications urging digital and traditional media to cease advertising unregulated online gambling and sports betting sites like Bodog in Ontario. Recent data from Ipsos, commissioned by AGCO and iGaming Ontario (iGO), revealed that a significant 83.7% of Ontarians who had gambled online in the last three months had done so on regulated sites.

Over 83% Market Channelization in Just 3 Years

The question arises: how will the government enforce compliance and further diminish the 16%-17% of players using unregulated sites? Downey emphasized, ‘The market has matured sufficiently, and if individuals choose not to register with licensed operators, they should stop participating in our gaming market.’

He pointed out that both iGO and the AGCO understand the importance of this issue. ‘Expect a more aggressive approach towards these illegal operations,’ he stated. He also highlighted that some Internet Service Providers (ISPs) have already been pressured to suspend services for illegal sites.

Strategic Overhaul of the Industry

Ontario’s gaming industry is undergoing a strategic review aimed at removing regulatory duplication and streamlining processes across iGaming Ontario, AGCO, and the OLG. Downey addressed the audience and shared that the original mission of the regulated market was to consolidate the gambling activities previously conducted in the grey area, fostering a space for growth and innovation while ensuring player protection.

With 50 licensed operators, 85 active websites, and approximately 2.1 million players in the market, Ontario’s framework is set to serve as a model for other provinces looking to establish their regulations.

Forestell added, ‘We are focused on addressing those operating unlawfully while exploring avenues to facilitate legal participation.’ The AGCO’s role emphasizes regulatory oversight rather than direct enforcement, relying on collaboration with financial institutions to curb illegal operations.

He noted that various broadcasters have begun refusing ads from illegal operators in an effort to uphold the integrity of the regulated market.

Conclusion

The Ontario government’s crackdown on illegal gaming sites represents a significant step toward ensuring a safer and more regulated gaming environment. By fortifying the enforcement of laws and fostering awareness of regulated operators, the AGCO aims to incentivize players to shift from unregulated to licensed gaming. This initiative not only protects players but also encourages the growth of a robust iGaming economy in Ontario, setting a precedent for other regions. With continued dedication, the future of responsible gaming looks promising.

From Racetracks to Betting Wires: Why US Horse Racing Venues Must Secure Entry for ICE Agents | 10BET

January 25, 2026/in Blog/by admin

From Racetracks to Betting Rings: Why Horse Racing Fans Demand Privacy and Legal Protections

The National Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA) has issued a strong recommendation for racetracks across the United States to deny access to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents unless presented with an official warrant. This directive follows a recent raid at Delta Downs in Louisiana, where 84 undocumented workers were arrested, sparking widespread concern within the racing community. Such instability poses a significant threat to the integrity of the industry, as any disruption to the workforce can directly impact the schedule of events and the betting markets that drive the excitement of horse racing.

ICE immigration raids, Delta Downs, US racetracks, undocumented workers, HBPA guidance, horse racing labor — More than 80 undocumented workers were arrested at Delta Downs after ICE agents placed the racetrack in lockdown. (Image: ICE)

Key Issues Highlighted

ICE Raid Details: The Delta Downs incident has raised significant alarm as it highlights the deep reliance of the horse racing industry on immigrant labour. The HBPA emphasized the potential devastation similar raids could cause across the country, as many racetracks depend on a predominantly immigrant workforce.
Legal Protections: The guidance stresses that racetrack security and management should not permit ICE agents entry based solely on requests. A search warrant signed by a judge is required for entry.
Worker Employment Conditions: Many backstretch workers are not directly employed by racetracks but by trainers and subcontractors. While some under the H-2B visa program are legally employed, navigating this system can be complex and costly.

Protecting the Workforce

The HBPA’s directive refers to the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which guards against unreasonable searches and seizures, highlighting the need for judicial oversight in ICE operations.

During the Delta Downs raid, it has been reported that ICE agents initially approached the racetrack requesting specific individuals. However, the operation escalated into a broader dragnet, leading to the detention of numerous undocumented workers.

Impact on the Racing Industry

This incident marks one of the first large-scale immigration raids targeting racetracks since the onset of the current administration, showcasing an intensifying crackdown on undocumented workers historically prevalent within the industry.

Tom Rooney, president of the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA), remarked on the potential repercussions if such actions continue, stressing that they could significantly disrupt live horse racing operations across the nation.

Steps Forward

Racetracks must develop clear policies regarding ICE access.
Engagement with local legal bodies to understand and communicate the rights of workers.
Increased attention toward the importance of immigrant labour in ensuring smooth and efficient operations.

Conclusion

The directive from the HBPA serves as a pivotal reminder of the delicate balance required to maintain integrity within the horse racing industry while upholding the legal rights of its workforce. As the landscape of immigration policies evolves, so too must the strategies employed by racetracks across the country to protect their essential labour force.

This focus on legal and ethical protections is crucial for an industry reliant on the hard work and dedication of many who have come from abroad in search of better opportunities.

William Hill Sportsbook to Pay £70K to Fired Exec After Discredited Pub Assault Claim

January 25, 2026/in Blog/by admin

William Hill Legal Settlement: What the £70k Payout to a Former Exec Means for the Future of the Sportsbook

Key Findings: Our latest analysis explores the evolving landscape of the betting industry, highlighting the specific trends and data points currently driving engagement within a modern online sportsbook.

No evidence of assault by William Hill executive
Investigation was flawed, led by a manager in personal conflict with the accuser
Police reviewed pub footage and found no inappropriate behaviour

In a landmark decision, William Hill UK must pay nearly £70,000 to a former executive, Joe Tobin, who was dismissed due to unfounded sexual assault allegations. An employment tribunal concluded there was no evidence to suggest that the assault had taken place, highlighting significant flaws in the investigation that led to Tobin’s termination.

The tribunal found that Tobin, who held the title of Head of Search in London, was unfairly dismissed after a biased investigation into allegations made by a co-worker. The allegations claimed Tobin engaged in severely inappropriate behaviour during a social event, but these claims were dismissed following scrutiny.

Allegations and Investigation Flaws

According to the accuser, Tobin had inappropriately touched her and made unwanted advances. These alleged incidents occurred in June 2024 at a pub in London’s Soho district during an England versus Denmark football match in the European Championships.

Key issues in the tribunal’s findings included:

The investigation was conducted by Tobin’s direct manager, Alex Carr, who harboured existing personal conflicts with him, rather than an impartial HR representative.
Critical evidence, including security footage from the pub, was not requested until after Tobin himself pursued it, but he was told it could only be released to the police or legal authorities.

In August 2024, investigators were able to retrieve the footage, clearly demonstrating there was no evidence of the alleged misconduct. The police also noted that eyewitness accounts were unreliable due to the intoxication levels of the witnesses.

The tribunal highlighted that the only witness to the alleged misconduct provided conflicting statements during testimony, and there were numerous other colleagues present who did not witness any inappropriate behaviour.

Reported Ambiguities and Personal Conflicts

Prior to raising her complaints, the accuser expressed to multiple colleagues that Tobin made her uncomfortable, describing him as giving her “weird vibes.” However, she also admitted that he had not acted inappropriately towards her before the documented incident.

The tribunal considered the interpersonal conflicts between the two individuals, which included a noted disagreement at a prior office gathering, suggesting that this may have influenced the allegations and subsequent investigation.

In the end, the tribunal ruled decisively that William Hill breached its own contractual obligations by proceeding with an unfounded dismissal and not respecting Tobin’s notice period payments, which legally entitled him to compensation.

Conclusion

This case underscores the critical importance of maintaining objectivity and integrity during workplace investigations, especially concerning sensitive allegations such as sexual misconduct. Employers must ensure that investigations are led by impartial parties and that all potential evidence is considered.

Ultimately, the tribunal’s ruling serves as a cautionary tale for employers about the consequences of neglecting fair investigative practices, highlighting that employees deserve robust protections against wrongful dismissal.

To summarize: Following a flawed investigation, William Hill was ordered to pay Joe Tobin nearly £70,000 after it was determined he was unjustly fired for accusations that lacked evidence. The findings reveal critical failures in the company’s internal processes, emphasizing the need for unbiased investigations in workplace misconduct cases.

Securing a Casino License: The Coney Application and $1 Million Fee Ready for Submission

January 24, 2026/in Blog/by admin

Securing the Coney Casino License: The $1 Million Application Fee Ready for Submission

The Coney proposes a significant $3 billion investment in Coney Island aimed at transforming this seaside town in Brooklyn into a vibrant year-round destination for entertainment and leisure. According to reports from Casino.org, the developers behind this ambitious project are set to submit their application for a casino license, which includes a hefty nonrefundable fee of $1 million.

Project Overview

Casino Proposal: The Coney aims to create a mixed-use resort that encompasses a range of entertainment options.
Investment: It represents a substantial financial investment of $3 billion.
Community Impact: This initiative looks to transform the local economy significantly.

The Coney casino resort New York City — A rendering of The Coney, showcasing the envisioned multibillion-dollar casino project.

In a competitive bidding landscape, The Coney is among the last contenders for one of three casino licenses available in downstate New York. The New York Gaming Facility Location Board is set to review the applications by June 27, 2025.

Recent Developments

Several major players, including Wynn Resorts, Las Vegas Sands, and Saks Fifth Avenue, have recently opted out of the bidding process, narrowing the field for potential applicants. Currently, The Coney is expected to be one of eight submissions evaluated by the New York Gaming Facility Location Board.

Economic Transformation

The Coney is backed by Thor Equities, a New York real estate firm founded by Joe Sitt, a native of Coney Island. They are partnering with the Chickasaw Nation, which operates the renowned WinStar World Casino Resort in Oklahoma, along with Saratoga Casino Holdings and Legends Hospitality.

The proposal emphasises economic transformation, with an emphasis on driving local business development and generating new jobs. Some of the projected benefits of The Coney project include:

Creation of thousands of local jobs
Significant annual tax revenue for the local government
Development of a one-acre public park
Partnerships with local businesses to stimulate growth
$200 million in community trust fund contributions

“We have the best story as far as economic transformation,” a spokesperson for The Coney shared with Casino.org.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the optimistic projections, the project still faces hurdles, including skepticism from local officials. For instance, Assemblymember Alec Brook-Krasny has publicly expressed his opposition to the casino project, citing concerns over its impact on local quality of life.

To grant the gaming license for the application, the associated Community Advisory Committee must reach a two-thirds majority in support, suggesting that community feedback will play a critical role in the decision-making process.

Conclusion

The future of The Coney remains uncertain as developers prepare to submit their application and accompanying fee. However, its potential impact on Coney Island could redefine the area as a premier locale for tourism and entertainment, signalling a significant shift towards economic revitalisation for the community.

With a keen focus on local dynamics and community engagement, The Coney could serve as a model for how integrated development projects can benefit both investors and residents in urban environments.

Minister Announces Major Review of the iGaming Industry in Ontario | 10BET

January 24, 2026/in Blog/by admin

Minister Announces Comprehensive Review of the Ontario iGaming Industry

Strategic review of online and land-based gaming industry
iGaming Ontario Act turned iGaming Ontario into a standalone agency
Minister for Tourism, Culture and Gaming Ontario comments at Canadian Gaming Summit

The room buzzed with anticipation as Minister for Tourism, Culture and Gaming Ontario, Stan Cho, took the stage at this year’s Canadian Gaming Summit, setting a high-energy tone for discussions surrounding the rapid evolution of the iGaming industry.

Minister Stan Cho at Canadian Gaming Summit — Minister Cho, flanked by Heidi Reinhart, Chair of iGO, and Jim Warren, Chair of OLG, emphasized the booming gaming sector in Ontario.

Strategic Review of Industry

The minister delivered exciting news: “Ontario’s gaming sector is thriving,” he declared, noting, “For the first time, we expect this year’s gaming revenue to exceed $10 billion.”

The Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) is anticipated to generate $6.82 billion, while iGaming Ontario is poised to contribute $3.7 billion. These exceptional figures are more than financial metrics; they reflect a multitude of businesses, countless jobs, significant charitable donations, and substantial returns to taxpayers.

Eliminating Red Tape

Ontario’s online gaming market is now home to 50 licensed operators, intensifying competition. Minister Cho noted, “The growth of our gaming industry brings benefits like enhanced public infrastructure, community programs, better pay for frontline staff, and reliable revenue streams for small businesses. This growth is pivotal for Ontario’s overall economic prosperity.”

To ensure continued growth, Cho announced that the government will conduct a comprehensive review of the gaming sector. “This review aims to identify opportunities for improving efficiency and cutting through the red tape that may hinder progress,” he stated.

“Importantly, we won’t be acting in a vacuum. We intend to engage with industry experts and operators to shape effective changes.”

Separation of Powers

The enactment of the iGaming Ontario Act last May was a significant milestone, creating a standalone agency under the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. Previously a part of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), the establishment of iGaming Ontario is aimed at enhancing governance and accountability.

This restructuring ensures that gaming companies, which have successfully registered with the AGCO, can operate promptly under a separate regulatory framework that enables swift responses to market changes.

What’s the Objective of the Review?

“This is a timely initiative,” remarked Paul Burns, President & CEO of the Canadian Gaming Association. “It’s essential to simplify processes for companies entering the market and broaden the range of products available, all while improving customer outcomes.”

The unique landscape of Ontario’s marketplace, combining both land-based and online operations, highlights the necessity for effective governance and coordination between management and regulators.

“Duplication in reporting needs to be addressed,” Burns added. “Streamlining regulations can yield quick wins within the upcoming year.”

Cost of Compliance

Ultimately, the aim is to foster enhanced synergies between land-based and online gaming. “Our goal is to create a more effective, compliant regulatory environment that translates into improved outcomes for everyone involved,” Burns explained.

The rising cost of compliance remains a concern in this competitive sector, burdening profits and affecting government revenue sharing. Addressing these challenges is crucial.

By nurturing better cooperation between operators and regulators, we can ensure the gaming industry not only keeps pace with technology and innovation but thrives in a competitive entertainment landscape,” Burns concluded.

Conclusion

The review of Ontario’s gaming sector signals a progressive step towards a more structured and responsive regulatory environment that not only supports operators but also caters to the evolving needs of consumers. This initiative aims to harness the burgeoning potential of gaming revenues, ensuring equitable benefits across the province while enhancing the overall gaming experience.

DraftKings’ Approach to Sports Betting vs. Prediction Markets: What Analysts Are Saying | 10BET

January 23, 2026/in Blog/by admin

DraftKings Takes a Cautious Approach to Sports Betting Prediction Markets

The current landscape of sports betting has seen a surge in interest towards prediction markets, which present unique opportunities and challenges for established gaming companies like DraftKings (NASDAQ: DKNG). Recently, analyst David Katz provided insights into the company’s position amidst growing competition in this space.

Key Insights from Analyst’s Meeting

Potential Deal: Rumors suggest a possible partnership between FanDuel and Kalshi, stirring speculation in the industry.
Regulatory Moves: DraftKings has already retracted a related regulatory application in April, hinting at their cautious approach towards entering prediction markets.

Katz’s view, developed after a meeting with DraftKings management at the Jefferies 2025 Consumer Conference in New York, indicates that the sportsbook giant is not rushing to delve into the world of prediction markets just yet. He remarked that DraftKings is taking a ‘circumspect’ attitude toward exploring this avenue.

As per Katz, DraftKings has a target price of $60 for their stock, suggesting a potential increase of over 50% from its recent closing value of $39.60. This forecast comes against a backdrop of subdued trading activity due to the Juneteenth holiday.

Understanding the Timing and Implications

This cautious stance comes at an interesting juncture:

Competitive Moves: Reports have emerged indicating FanDuel and Kalshi might collaborate, potentially allowing FanDuel to enter markets such as California and Texas where traditional sports betting is currently prohibited.
Market Pressure: There is a rising perception that if prediction markets introduce features like parlays, which are critical for conventional sportsbooks, companies may be compelled to venture into the prediction market space themselves.

During a recent earnings call, Flutter Entertainment, the parent company of FanDuel, discussed their ongoing monitoring of sports derivatives, leveraging their vast experience through the Betfair Exchange.

A Closer Look at DraftKings’ Strategy

Additionally, DraftKings had previously submitted an application to the National Futures Exchange (NFA) for “DraftKings Predict” but withdrew it, a move that signals their reticence to overwhelmingly plunge into the unregulated prediction market waters.

Analysts suggest that discussions are underway within gaming companies, focusing on how to fortify their stance against the burgeoning threat posed by prediction markets. Katz noted, “The discussions also highlighted the growing scale of prediction markets, which face minimal regulatory barriers, prompting operators to consider potential offerings in this domain on an unregulated basis.”

Conclusion

Understanding DraftKings’ current approach to prediction markets reveals much about their strategic foresight and caution in navigating the rapidly evolving betting industry landscape. As competition heats up and other players explore new avenues, DraftKings’ measured stance may serve them well in anticipating future industry shifts.

In summary, while prediction markets present an intriguing opportunity for growth, DraftKings appears committed to carefully evaluating its potential before making significant moves. The sports betting landscape is in flux, and the decisions made today will likely shape the future of gaming.

Explore More: Check out our latest guides and casinos to stay updated with the present trends in sports betting.

Top Entertainment at Las Vegas Casinos: Resorts World Theatre Welcomes Maxwell and Riley Green

January 22, 2026/in Blog/by admin

Las Vegas Casinos Entertainment News: Resorts World Theatre Welcomes Maxwell and Riley Green

Experience the thrill of world-class entertainment and high-stakes excitement at Resorts World, a premier destination that captures the electric energy found across all Las Vegas casinos. From breathtaking live performances to unforgettable nightlife, every event is designed to heighten the luxury and adrenaline that define the ultimate gaming capital.

Maxwell set to perform on October 24
Riley Green on stage December 12 and 13
Rod Stewart speaks out on current issues
Shaquille O’Neal to DJ at Encore Beach Club

This week, Resorts World has exciting announcements, confirming that it will host Maxwell for his national tour on October 24 and country star Riley Green on December 12 and 13. These performances coincide with the National Finals Rodeo, taking place at Thomas & Mack Center.

Maxwell performing live — Maxwell brings his concert “The Serenade” to the newly renovated Resorts World Theatre on October 24.

Maxwell’s tour is currently called “The Serenade,” while Riley Green has dubbed his tour “Don’t Mind if I Do.” Tickets for both performances are set to go on sale at 10 am PT on June 20 via AXS.com.

After a brief closure for renovations following a successful residency with Janet Jackson, the Resorts World Theatre will reopen for the much-anticipated performances. Janet Jackson’s residency dates continue starting on September 10.

Rod Stewart’s Bold Comments

Rod Stewart in 2023 performance — Rod Stewart courted controversy with his recent remarks.

This week, Rod Stewart, a headliner at Caesars Palace, made headlines for his compelling interview with Radio Times. The legendary rocker shared strong opinions regarding current global affairs, particularly condemning U.S. President Donald Trump for his stance on Israel’s approach in Gaza, stating, “What (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu is doing to the Palestinians is annihilation. I don’t know how they sleep at night.”

Stewart, who recently canceled several performance dates due to health issues, plans to resume his residency at The Colosseum on September 24.

Shaquille O’Neal at Encore Beach Club

This summer, the Wynn’s XS Nightclub and Encore Beach Club are set to host the “Breakaway Takeover”, the largest touring dance festival in the U.S. Kicking off on August 22 with DJ Two Friends, it promises a stellar line-up.

The festival’s highlight performance will feature Shaquille O’Neal, donning his DJ Diesel persona, scheduled to take the stage at Encore Beach Club the following evening. Tickets are already available on WynnNightlife.com.

Conclusion and Upcoming Events

As we look forward to these events at Resorts World and Wynn, Las Vegas continues to be a hub of entertainment with world-class performances from iconic artists. With tickets on sale soon for Maxwell and Riley Green, music fans will not want to miss these renowned artists hitting the stage.

Stay tuned for more updates on future shows, and keep exploring the vibrant music scene in Las Vegas!

‘Netflix House’ Coming to Las Vegas Strip in 2027

January 22, 2026/in Blog/by admin

‘Netflix House’ Coming to Las Vegas Strip in 2027

Netflix is set to open a thrilling new attraction on the Las Vegas Strip called the Netflix House, where fans can immerse themselves in the worlds of their favourite shows and movies. Located at BLVD Las Vegas, this attraction will make its debut in 2027 and will feature numerous interactive experiences based on popular Netflix content.

The upcoming Netflix House is part of a 400,000-square-foot retail, entertainment, and dining complex that’s replacing the old Hawaiian Marketplace, right south of Harmon Avenue. This exciting development is also home to the future world’s largest In-N-Out, promising a delightful experience for visitors.

What to Expect at Netflix House

Although specific details about the attractions are still under wraps, fans can anticipate becoming their favourite characters as they explore immersive experiences based on hit shows like:

Stranger Things
Squid Game
Wednesday
One Piece

Before the Las Vegas location opens, Netflix will launch similar experiences in two other cities: Dallas and Philadelphia. The Dallas venue will feature attractions inspired by “Stranger Things” and “Squid Game,” while Philadelphia will delve into “Wednesday” and “One Piece” themes.

This initiative aims to create an engaging fandom experience, letting visitors step inside the narratives they’ve loved for years. Netflix’s Chief Marketing Officer, Marian Lee, expressed the concept well: “This is fandom coming to life, where you can step into the worlds you’ve been watching—whether you’re going on an epic adventure with the Straw Hats or enjoying a cocktail inspired by your latest obsession.”

Artist rendering of Netflix House — An artist rendering of the Netflix House.

Dining at Netflix House

In addition to the attractions, Netflix House will feature Netflix Bites, a casual dining experience with a menu inspired by various Netflix shows. Guests visiting the currently existing Netflix Bites inside the MGM Grand can expect the same level of creativity and themed dishes.

Competition for Tourists

The arrival of Netflix House is seen as a strategic move to attract immersive tourism back to the Las Vegas Strip, especially as visitors have been increasingly gravitating towards unique experiences like AREA15, which is part of Las Vegas’s Immersive Tourism District. This district already hosts attractions such as:

John Wick Experience by Lionsgate
Universal Horror Unleashed
Interstellar Arc by Felix & Paul Studios

Warner Bros. Discovery is also launching “The Friends Experience” at the MGM Grand, designed to lure visitors seeking immersive experiences, scheduled to open on July 23.

Final Thoughts

The Netflix House promises to transform the Las Vegas skyline with an inspiring mix of entertainment and dining that caters to fans of all ages. As Netflix continually expands its reach within the entertainment landscape, this new venture on the Strip could mark a significant turning point for immersive entertainment in Las Vegas.

For the latest updates or to get tickets closer to the opening date in 2027, be sure to stay tuned!

Summary

In summary, the Netflix House is set to be a groundbreaking attraction on the Las Vegas Strip, expected to create unforgettable experiences based on famous Netflix properties. With engaging themes, dining options, and a competitive edge against other immersive experiences, this development looks to be a potential highlight for both locals and tourists alike.

Alberta’s iGaming Market Expansion: Minister Dale Nally Confirms Early 2026 Launch

January 21, 2026/in Blog/by admin

Alberta Gaming Minister Dale Nally Confirms Early 2026 Launch to Reshape the Provincial iGaming Market

Alberta’s iGaming market is set to launch in early 2026, according to the province’s Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction, Dale Nally. His announcement came during the Canadian Gaming Summit held in Toronto, where he addressed various stakeholders in the gaming industry.

Nally confirms iGaming market launch for early 2026
Ontario tax rate set at 20%
Inspiration drawn from Ontario’s three-year-old iGaming regulatory framework

While many in the audience were eager for specific details regarding advertising strategies and exact tax rates, Nally’s speech offered limited updates on these subjects. He emphasized Alberta’s friendly business environment, noting low tax rates and manageable red tape along with a cost-effective living situation.

Dale Nally addresses the Canadian Gaming Summit — Dale Nally addresses a packed audience at the Canadian Gaming Summit in Toronto.

In his succinct 15-minute presentation, Nally touched upon both the recent performance of the Edmonton Oilers and the advantages of Alberta as a destination for gaming and investment.

“We acknowledge the interest in advertising and tax info, which we are still finalising. This feedback is crucial as we continue our consultations,” Nally stated.

Nally forecasted a ‘ribbon cutting’ ceremony for the new iGaming platform early next year, expressing enthusiasm for the premier launch, though exact details remain forthcoming.

Using Ontario as a Blueprint

The Minister noted that Alberta would be looking to Ontario’s iGaming model, which debuted three years prior, as a crucial reference point for the impending Alberta launch. He highlighted the importance of ongoing consultations with industry representatives from Ontario to shape the direction of Alberta’s regulatory framework.

“Conversations about advertising standards and tax rates will occur in autumn, where we aim to make Important decisions, especially regarding the role of athletes in gambling,” he mentioned.

With Alberta boasting a high disposable income among residents, Nally underscored the cultural acceptance of gambling as a recreational activity. He affirmed that this cultural aspect would play a considerable role in shaping Alberta as a blossoming hub for legal online gambling.

Legislative Bill 48 was passed earlier this year, establishing the new Alberta iGaming Corporation to regulate online gambling activities, where consumer protection and responsible play will be paramount.

Heightened Interest Following Nally’s Address

Today’s event has garnered significant attention, especially from operators such as PointsBet, theScore BET, NorthStar, FanDuel, and DraftKings, who are eager to explore opportunities within Alberta’s new regulatory landscape.

The Ontario market, which launched in April 2022, currently operates with a 20% tax rate, a benchmark that Alberta will likely consider as it develops its system.

Conclusion

As Alberta prepares to enter the iGaming realm, Minister Dale Nally’s optimistic insights into upcoming regulations, tax structures, and industry partnerships highlight a bright future for online gaming in the province. The incorporation of feedback from various stakeholders during this developmental phase is vital for creating a fair and efficient gaming environment.

Stay tuned for more updates as Alberta steps into this promising new chapter of gaming and entertainment.

Harlem Nights Casino Hotel Project Denied by Las Vegas City Council

January 20, 2026/in Blog/by admin

Harlem Nights Casino Hotel Project Denied by Las Vegas City Council

The Las Vegas City Council voted almost unanimously to shut down Harlem Nights
The proposed casino hotel featured two 22-story towers in Las Vegas’ Historic Westside neighbourhood
Area zoning restrictions limit buildings to seven stories, requiring the developer to seek permission to exceed this limit
The developer was removed from the meeting for interrupting but left before the final vote took place

The Las Vegas City Council decided on Wednesday to deny the request for land-use entitlements for the Harlem Nights casino hotel during a dramatic meeting. Almost ejected from the proceedings, the developer was informed that their plans for building in the Historic Westside were incompatible with local community standards.

An artist’s rendering of the two towers proposed for the Harlem Nights casino hotel project, which would have overshot Historic Westside zoning limits by 15 stories. (Image: Las Vegas City Planning Commission)

Shlomo Meiri, the developer behind the Harlem Nights project, aimed to breathe new life into the Historic Westside through the construction of a 22-story mixed-use casino hotel and apartment complex, strategically located near Jackson Avenue and F Street. However, his plans for a special use permit and height variance to exceed the existing zoning limits faced stiff opposition from local authorities, leading to a decisive 6-1 vote against them.

“Our community is not looking for a savior. We’re looking for a partner,” stated Councilwoman Shondra Summers-Armstrong, representing the district, who described the project as a “behemoth on less than 2 acres.”

The proposed Harlem Nights project included:

**22-story Jackson Hotel** featuring 207 rooms and 60 condos
Harlem Nights Casino with 7,000 square feet of gaming area
Another **22-story tower** known as the Westside Residence, offering 336 apartments
Additional amenities, such as a theater, various restaurants, a nightclub, retail stores, and a parking garage

Current zoning laws cap building heights at seven stories unless specific permits are acquired. Initially, Meiri proposed a more ambitious concept named after the 1989 movie featuring Eddie Murphy and Richard Pryor, which included a single **60-story hotel** with **764 rooms** and a **10,000 square-foot casino**, in addition to **458 residential units**.

Resistance from the local community, city staff, and recommendations against the project from the City Planning Commission forced Meiri to scale down his initial ambitions several times, culminating in the final proposal that ultimately failed.

During the meeting, in response to criticisms, Meiri remarked, “That’s what happens when you have stupid people making decisions in business. They don’t care about the community; all they care about is their personal gain.” His outburst led to warnings from Mayor Berkley, who threatened to remove him from the meeting. Eventually, Meiri exited the venue just before the final vote.

Councilwoman Victoria Seaman, who opposed Mayor Berkley, cast the only dissenting vote. According to city attorney advice, Meiri can return with new proposals in the coming months, provided they adhere to the existing zoning laws. If he intends to challenge those again, he will have to wait a year.

Conclusion

The denial of the Harlem Nights Casino Hotel signifies a pivotal moment for the development landscape in Las Vegas, particularly in areas where zoning laws are strict due to community interests. This instance highlights critical issues concerning urban development, community engagement, and the balance between ambition and regulatory compliance. The outcome serves as a reminder that while growth is sought-after, it must occur in concert with the community’s needs and regulatory frameworks.