Asia Gaming Weekly News Bulletin – ISSUE 16 Week of 26 May 2025
(1) India’s Top Court to Hear Case Against Illegal Betting Apps
The Supreme Court of India will hear a Public Interest Litigation calling for a crackdown on illegal betting apps and stricter regulations for online gaming.
(2) Jockey Club supports expansion of JC JoyAge project to provide mental-health support to a wider age range
The Hong Kong Jockey Club has allocated HK$678 million to expand the JC JoyAge project, which addresses mental health issues.
(3) Thailand considers economic stimulus as kingdom gears up for potential casino resorts
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra proposed a 3.78 trillion baht budget to boost Thailand’s economy.
(4) Robert Goldstein: Macau gaming market challenged by increased competition, online gambling and US-Sino trade war
Las Vegas Sands CEO Robert Goldstein highlighted challenges in the Macau market due to the US-China trade war and increased competition.
(1) India’s Top Court to Hear Case Against Illegal Betting Apps
(Photo Credit: Shutterstock.com)
The Supreme Court of India has agreed to hear a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) that calls for a nationwide crackdown on illegal betting applications and stricter regulations for online gaming and fantasy sports platforms. The petition argues that many of these platforms, marketed as games of skill, actually promote disguised gambling, exploiting a regulatory grey area. It highlights the potential harm caused, particularly to younger and vulnerable users, asserting that these activities should be deemed illegal under the Public Gambling Act of 1867.
The PIL also points to a significant regulatory gap, noting that without a unified legal framework, the regulation of online betting is left to individual states, many of which lack the resources or motivation to enforce strict oversight. This has allowed illegal platforms to proliferate unchecked.
Beyond the immediate issues of betting apps, the PIL raises broader concerns about consumer protection in India’s burgeoning online gaming sector. It calls for the establishment of a clear legal structure governing all forms of online gaming, emphasising that the matter is not just about gambling but about safeguarding consumers from exploitation. With over 140 million active online players in India, the case is expected to prompt a wider discussion on online safety and the future of gaming laws in the country.
News Source: https://www.gamblingnews.com/news/mgm-resorts-advises-thailand-to-adopt-a-competitive-casino-tax-and-allow-locals-to-play/
(2) Jockey Club supports expansion of JC JoyAge project to provide mental-health support to a wider age range
(Photo Credit: HKJC)
A recent survey found that about one in seven people in Hong Kong aged 16 to 75 experience anxiety, depression, or mood disorders. In response, The Hong Kong Jockey Club has allocated HK$678 million to expand the JC JoyAge project, which aims to enhance community-based mental health services for a broader age range.
Since its launch in 2016, JC JoyAge has focused on addressing elderly depression through a community support network, training professionals, and raising awareness. The project has now embarked on a new three-year phase to extend services to individuals aged 45 and above and to collaborate with local health centres for integrated medical and social support.
The initiative aims to assist over 13,000 at-risk individuals and will train more than 70 social workers while engaging over 480 Peer Supporters. These efforts will include public education programmes to improve mental health literacy, reinforcing the Jockey Club’s commitment to community health through its sustainable funding model.
News Source: https://corporate.hkjc.com/corporate/corporate-news/english/2025-05/news_2025052701626.aspx
(3) Thailand considers economic stimulus as kingdom gears up for potential casino resorts
(Photo Credit: iGB – igamingbusiness)
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has proposed a 3.78 trillion baht ($168.3 billion) budget aimed at revitalising Thailand’s economy and improving citizens’ quality of life amid challenges such as US tariff hikes. The budget, which is expected to pass despite internal disputes within the ruling coalition, seeks to maintain economic stability through a deficit policy due to revenue constraints and the global economic situation.
The draft budget includes a projected 0.7% increase in spending and a slight decrease in the deficit to 860 billion baht, or 4.3% of GDP. It forecasts economic growth between 2.3% and 3.3% for this year and next, with inflation expected to be between 0.5% and 1.5%. Also, a report from the National Economic and Social Development Council emphasised the need for Thailand to adapt to potential policy changes from key trading partners, particularly the US.
Tourism in Thailand has shaken the confidence of potential visitors. As international travel to Thailand has decreased by 1.04% year on year, lawmakers may find the controversial Entertainment Complex Bill more appealing, as it aims to enhance tourism efficiency and stimulate investment. The Senate is currently reviewing this bill, with a report expected in July 2025.
News Source: https://igamingbusiness.com/casino/integrated-resorts/thailand-budget-economic-stimulus-casino-resorts/
(Photo Credit: CNBC/ iag)
Las Vegas Sands (LVS) Chairman and CEO Robert Goldstein has expressed concerns about the sluggish performance in the Macau market, attributing it to the US-China trade war, heightened competition, and the rise of online gambling. He pointed out that while visitor numbers have rebounded, spending per customer has not, resulting in stagnant revenues for Sands China.
Goldstein noted that the Macau gaming market has stabilised around US$28 billion in annual gross gaming revenue, with limited growth expected in the near term. Despite this, he remains optimistic about long-term potential, forecasting revenues could reach US$32 billion to US$34 billion, but emphasised the need for Sands to enhance its operational strategies.
He also highlighted the importance of improved US-China relations for global economic stability, arguing that a stronger bilateral relationship is essential for boosting consumer confidence and spending. Goldstein believes that resolving trade tensions will benefit both nations and the wider economy, as uncertainty currently impacts market dynamics.
News Source: https://asgam.com/2025/05/30/robert-goldstein-macau-gaming-market-challenged-by-increased-competition-online-gambling-and-us-sino-trade-war/
