A second Donald Trump presidency could shake up the gambling industry in ways that aren’t entirely clear yet—but insiders are already bracing for challenges. From labor shortages to supply chain disruptions, casino operators and other gaming stakeholders may face a bumpy ride depending on how policy shifts unfold.
Workforce Shortages Could Hit Casinos Hard
Hiring…
U.S. Rep. Steven Horsford is leading a charge to eliminate the subminimum wage and taxes on tips, a move that has gained strong backing from Nevada’s influential Culinary Union. While former President Donald Trump has floated a similar idea, Horsford is making it clear his version goes further—closing loopholes and ensuring workers see real benefits.…
A rare moment? Not really. Kenny Epstein is almost always smiling. But on Thursday evening, that signature grin was wider than ever. The longtime chairman and CEO of El Cortez had every reason to beam. After all, his beloved hotel-casino just got a $20 million upgrade, and the entire city was celebrating.
A Nod to…
Michael Kaplan, a seasoned gambling journalist and keynote speaker at the upcoming World Game Protection Conference in Las Vegas, believes that artificial intelligence is opening new doors for players looking to beat casino games legally. Kaplan, known for his deep dives into the world of advantage players (APs), will be discussing his latest book, Advantage…
With legal challenges, legislative proposals, and shifting industry attitudes, the movement for smokefree gaming is gaining ground across the U.S. this year. Industry insiders, health advocates, and casino workers believe 2025 could mark a turning point in the effort to ban indoor smoking in gambling establishments.
Legal Fight in New Jersey Could Set a Precedent…
The battle for a key North Carolina Senate seat is already turning into a high-stakes showdown. Just a week after Rockingham County Sheriff Sam Page announced his challenge to longtime Senate leader Phil Berger, the campaign rhetoric is heating up—particularly over the controversial push to expand casino gambling in the state.
Casino Debate Becomes a…
Bazaar Meat by José Andrés, the renowned steakhouse at Sahara Las Vegas, is set to close its doors after June 30. The restaurant, famous for its extravagant cuts of meat and playful culinary presentations, has been a staple of the Strip’s dining scene. While there’s a slim chance the lease could be extended, as of…
Tucked away in Macon County, a quiet farm sits just 15 minutes from the traffic of Interstate 85. For Ed Gannon and his family, it’s a slice of peace, a place untouched by the chaos of city life. But for years, that peace was constantly disrupted—by the presence of nearby casinos.
With Alabama lawmakers debating…
Macau’s gaming and tourism industries are at a crossroads. Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai has warned that the city cannot escape the pressures of growing regional competition. As new casino markets emerge in Asia, Macau must rethink its strategy to maintain its position as the world’s top gambling hub.
Macau’s Challenges in an Intensifying Market…
SkyCity Entertainment Group has revised its full-year earnings outlook downward after a difficult first half, with declines in revenue, underlying EBITDA, and net profit. The New Zealand-based casino and entertainment company reported a 4.7% dip in revenue for the six months ending December 31, 2024, highlighting ongoing challenges in consumer spending.
Revenue Drops Across Key…