Weekend Conversation Corner – October, 31

Welcome to the most recent edition 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 succinct and focused recap, we will discuss the key stories that have shaped the conversation, impacted policies, and sparked debates. Join us as we cut through the clutter and offer a condensed review of the week’s important developments, keeping you informed on what really counts in today’s fast-changing world.

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

Gaming regulator expects up to four casinos in United Arab Emirates

Jim Murren, chairman of the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority, predicts that the UAE’s gaming market could surpass Singapore’s. He anticipates the opening of two to four integrated resorts in the next five to ten years, excluding Ras Al Khaimah where Wynn Resorts is already building the first licensed casino. Wynn Al Marjan Island is set to be completed by early 2027, offering a 70-storey beachfront resort with gaming facilities and luxury amenities. The GCGRA is also considering online gaming regulation, potentially granting one online gambling license per emirate. Analysts project that the UAE’s gaming industry could contribute up to 1.7% of the country’s GDP, generating between US$3bn and US$10bn annually.

“PAGCOR is not in favour of a total ban on online gaming, and instead advocates for stricter regulation”

The article discusses the ongoing legislative reforms and debates surrounding the gambling industry in the Philippines. Lawmakers are considering banning online gaming, while PAGCOR advocates for stricter regulations instead. The focus is on addressing illegal operators targeting Filipino players. PAGCOR is working to protect consumers and comply with anti-money laundering measures. The article also touches on the impact of the BSP’s directive to unlink e-wallets from gambling platforms, revenue losses, and measures to protect consumers from illegal alternatives. PAGCOR’s role in the removal of the Philippines from the FATF grey list, plans for privatisation, and regulatory priorities for 2025 are also highlighted. The article emphasizes the importance of responsible gaming, modernising laws, and ensuring a competitive and investor-friendly gaming environment.

India’s Supreme Court confirms November date to hear challenges to online gambling ban

A series of petitions challenging the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Act, 2025 in India have been scheduled for an initial hearing on November 4 by the Supreme Court. Companies like Head Digital Works (A23), Dream11, PokerBaazi, and Rummy Circle have filed these petitions, contesting the constitutional validity of the act. The legislation aims to curb financial and social harm caused by gambling-style games, but petitioners argue that it violates the freedom to conduct business and disregards previous Supreme Court rulings recognizing skill-based games like rummy and poker. Major platforms have suspended real-money operations since the enforcement of the act, leading to layoffs and changes in strategy in the online gaming sector. The outcome of these petitions could have significant implications for the industry in India.

Philippine president signs ‘Anti-POGO Act’

The article discusses the signing of Republic Act 12312, also known as the “Anti-POGO Act of 2025,” by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in the Philippines. This law institutionalizes the ban on offshore gaming operators, repealing a previous act that imposed taxes on them. The Act was passed by the Senate and adopted by the House of Representatives in June 2025. President Marcos had previously issued an Executive Order banning offshore gaming operators due to concerns over human trafficking and torture. The penalties for breaching the ban include imprisonment and fines, with harsher consequences for repeat offenders. Public officials or employees found guilty will face the maximum penalty, while foreigners will be deported and permanently banned from re-entering the Philippines.

UAE to allow one online gaming licence per emirate under new framework

The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) in the United Arab Emirates is preparing to introduce regulated online gaming, following a model similar to land-based casinos. Each emirate will have the authority to issue a maximum of one business-to-consumer (B2C) license. Currently, only one land-based license has been awarded to Wynn Resorts for a US$5bn integrated resort in Ras Al Khaimah, with MGM applying for a license in Abu Dhabi. Analysts predict that only two or three emirates will move forward with online gaming licenses in the near future. The GCGRA has been issuing business-to-business (B2B) vendor licenses, with recent approvals for iGaming platform operator Hub88 Holdings and sports data and analytics firm Sportradar.

Macau gaming sector accounted for 36% of inward investment in 2024

The article reports that foreign direct investment income in Macau’s gaming sector reached US$3.85bn in 2024. Overall, inward direct investment flows in Macao SAR increased by 54.9% to US$1.72bn, with total inward direct investment income reaching US$6.74bn. The stock of inward direct investment also rose by 4.5% year-on-year. Foreign investors earned income in the gaming sector, financial services, and retail sectors, with the gaming sector accounting for 36% of all inward investment. Despite a slight drop in the gaming sector’s share, financial services and real estate sectors saw gains in investment.

Welcome to the most recent edition 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…