Weekend Conversation Corner – March, 20

Welcome to the newest installment of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, where we delve into the week’s top headlines that have captured global interest. As we break down the flurry of events into a concise summary, we will highlight the key stories that have impacted the narrative, influenced policies, and sparked conversations. Join us as we navigate through the chaos and provide a condensed overview of the week’s crucial developments, keeping you informed on what truly counts in today’s fast-paced world.

Stay informed, stay motivated, and keep on gaming. Have a fantastic weekend ahead!

Philippine senator introduces bill to tighten AML regulation

Senator Joel Villanueva of the Philippines has introduced Senate Bill No. 1983 to amend the Anti-Money Laundering Act, expanding the definition of “covered persons” to include online gambling operators and virtual asset service providers. This change aims to address financial crimes related to digital platforms, such as online gambling. The bill also grants more power to the Anti-Money Laundering Council, allowing for quicker issuance of transaction suspension orders and subpoenas during investigations. Villanueva emphasizes the need for stronger laws to combat sophisticated financial crimes and proposes including cybercrime as a predicate offense for money laundering. These reforms align with recommendations from the Financial Action Task Force.

India enacts Online Gaming Act

The Online Gaming Act 2025 in India imposes a ban on real-money gaming, covering games of skill, chance, and hybrid formats. The government can now enforce key provisions, including blocking access to non-compliant platforms and taking action against operators. The establishment of the Online Gaming Authority of India will oversee implementation, classify games, manage registrations, and ensure compliance. Banks and payment processors are required to prevent transactions tied to prohibited gaming. The legislation has already impacted many gaming operators, leading to halting or shifting operations. Read more here.

Goa casino sector contributions dip

The article discusses the revenue generated by Goa’s casino industry over the past five years, amounting to over INR17.49bn. Despite a recovery post-Covid-19, collections dropped in 2024-25 after reaching a peak in the previous year. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant presented data showing a rise in collections from 2021-22 to 2023-24, but a decline in 2024-25. The current financial year has generated INR1.43bn so far. The regulated casino market in Goa has 23 active licenses, with 17 land-based casinos and six offshore vessels. Authorities have confirmed that all offshore casinos have the necessary approvals, and no unlicensed vessels have been identified.

The Philippines ramps up crackdown on illegal online gambling with new inter-agency alliance

The Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Centre (CICC) in the Philippines is collaborating with the Presidential Anti-Organised Crime Commission (PAOCC) to combat illegal online gambling. The CICC will conduct digital forensic investigations to build criminal cases and gather evidence against operators. This inter-agency alliance also involves the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) and the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group. PAOCC’s executive director, Benjamin Acorda, emphasizes the importance of cooperation to dismantle illegal operations and improve enforcement against cybercrime syndicates. The initiative follows a surge in complaints related to illegal online gambling, with concerns raised about platforms designed to deceive users and exploit addictive business models.

Macau daily gaming revenue averages US$87.4m in March, UBS says

The article discusses how Macau’s casino revenue remains stable in March, averaging around MOP703m (US$87.4m) per day according to UBS. Despite seasonal softness, daily GGR in the past seven days was up 11% year-on-year but down 5% from February. UBS predicts March’s GGR to average MOP690m (US$86.2m) per day, a 9% increase from 2025. The moderation in performance compared to February is attributed to steady demand from visitors and entertainment events by casino operators. UBS recently lowered its EBITDA outlook for Macau’s gaming industry in 2026 by 2% due to higher operating expenses in Q4 2025. However, they anticipate a 5% year-on-year increase in Gross Gaming Revenue for 2026, with stronger growth expected in the first half of the year.

PAGCOR start enforcement of B2B accreditation rules

The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) is now requiring operators to submit vendor lists to verify supplier accreditation. This move is part of the enforcement of the business-to-business (B2B) accreditation framework, with a deadline for igaming suppliers to obtain accreditation by March 31. Licensed operators and gaming system administrators must comply by submitting lists of B2B vendors for verification. Non-accredited vendors may face consequences, including discontinuation of services. PAGCOR is actively ensuring compliance, leading operators to request documentation from partners to demonstrate regulatory status. Suppliers not on the accredited lists may face scrutiny or exclusion from operator ecosystems. Options for suppliers include direct applications, partnering with accredited GSAs, or working through Philippine-based intermediaries. Compliance is crucial to avoid risks and maintain operations within the Philippine gaming industry.

Welcome to the newest installment of our Focus Gaming News Weekend Conversation Corner, where we delve into the week’s top headlines that have captured global interest. As we break down the flurry of events into a concise summary, we will highlight the key stories that have impacted the narrative, influenced policies, and sparked conversations. Join…