China has announced a commitment to enhance cooperation with the countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to address the increasing threats of online gambling and telecom fraud. This pledge was made by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during a crucial meeting with representatives from the 10 ASEAN nations on January 16, in Beijing.
The Escalation of Online Crimes
Recent incidents across the Myanmar-Thailand border have intensified worries concerning these crimes, which affect not only China but also its neighbors. Reports from China Daily highlight the significant rise in cases where individuals are deceived by offers of lucrative jobs abroad, only to find themselves caught in scams. The Bangkok Post conveyed Wang Yi’s view that these criminal activities pose a serious risk to both public safety and economic stability, stressing the need for collective action to tackle these threats.
China’s Proactive Measures and Collaboration Initiatives
Wang Yi’s discussions emphasized China’s readiness to strengthen both bilateral and multilateral law enforcement collaborations with ASEAN nations. The focus is on dismantling the intricate networks of fraud that span across borders, targeting vulnerable individuals under the guise of employment or travel opportunities. Through increased law enforcement cooperation, China and ASEAN are working to secure the region against these scams.
Rescue Operations and Crackdown on Fraud Networks
China has also committed to aiding victims of these frauds. The Chinese Ministry of Public Security has actively coordinated rescues for nationals trapped in Southeast Asia’s fraud dens. In July 2023, China launched a nationwide initiative, resulting in significant crackdowns on telecom fraud networks in northern Myanmar, in partnership with local authorities. However, as these criminal groups adapt and relocate, the challenge to completely eradicate their operations persists.
Highlighting the Urgency: A High-Profile Abduction Case
The abduction of Chinese actor Wang Xing in Myanmar, who was later found to be a victim of human trafficking, underscored the ongoing risks in the region. This incident has heightened awareness and prompted Chinese authorities to advise the public to be exceedingly cautious with seemingly lucrative overseas offers.
ASEAN’s Response and Ongoing Challenges
ASEAN, acknowledging the gravity of these issues, has intensified its efforts, particularly through Thailand’s initiatives to enhance its image as a safe tourism destination and to better handle cross-border crime. Thailand and Myanmar have been instrumental in the repatriation of fraud suspects to China, demonstrating a firm commitment to international law enforcement cooperation.
Despite these efforts, the complexity of cross-border criminal activities necessitates persistent vigilance and enhanced cooperation between China and ASEAN member states. By solidifying law enforcement ties and intelligence sharing, they aim to curb the continuing threats of telecom fraud and human trafficking, ensuring a safer environment for all residents in the region.
Fraudulent Deal Uncovered in D.C.’s Sports Betting Program
Two major contractors involved in Washington, D.C.’s controversial sports betting initiative have agreed to pay a total of $6.5 million following an investigation into fraudulent practices. The settlement concludes an inquiry by the D.C. Office of the Attorney General (OAG) into the actions of Greek-based gaming company Intralot and its subcontractor, Veterans Services Corporation (VSC). The companies faced accusations of deceiving officials to secure a $215 million contract to manage D.C.’s lottery and sports betting operations.
Misrepresentation and Fraudulent Claims
The investigation revealed that Intralot and VSC misrepresented their partnership to bypass competitive bidding processes and win the contract. They claimed VSC, a local subcontractor, would perform 51% of the work, a key requirement under the District’s Small, Local, and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Development and Assistance Act (SBE Act). This Act aims to ensure significant participation by local small businesses in government contracts. In reality, an Intralot subsidiary handled the majority of the work, with substantial payments funneled back to Intralot, undermining the Act’s intent.
Adding to the controversy, over 100 fraudulent invoices were submitted to the District, falsely indicating compliance with local laws and contract terms. D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb criticized the scheme, stating, “This is a warning to any company that tries to manipulate and exploit District contracting laws, especially laws intended to build the capacity of the local businesses vital to our economy.”
Settlement Terms and Accountability Measures
Under the settlement, Intralot will pay $5 million and VSC $1.5 million. While neither company admitted wrongdoing, they have agreed to implement measures ensuring transparency in future contracts. These include accurate reporting of subcontractor information and restrictions on undisclosed third-party involvement in District projects.
The GambetDC Fallout
The settlement is another chapter in the turbulent history of D.C.’s sports betting program. The GambetDC platform, managed by Intralot, faced widespread criticism for underperformance, prompting the District to open the market to third-party operators. Since FanDuel’s 2023 takeover, the platform has reported significantly higher wagering volumes, marking a stark improvement.
The original no-bid contract with Intralot, pushed through in 2019, had been mired in controversy from the start. It was championed by former D.C. Councilmember Jack Evans, who resigned amid a bribery scandal. Critics argue the deal favoured politically connected companies while sidelining competitive bidders.
A Troubling Precedent and Lessons for the Future
Schwalb described the Intralot-VSC partnership as “a sham from the start,” noting it highlights systemic vulnerabilities in D.C.’s government contracting processes. He vowed to continue enforcing the False Claims Act, saying, “My office will root out contracting fraud, hold accountable anyone who tries to get over on the District and its taxpayers, and level the playing field for law-abiding companies.”
Despite the fines and reforms, VSC continues to deny the allegations, calling the claims “frivolous” and expressing frustration over legal costs.
A Brighter Future for D.C. Sports Betting?
In 2023, D.C. moved to an open-market model for sports betting, attracting major operators like DraftKings, BetMGM, and ESPN Bet. With more robust oversight and competition, the District aims to restore public trust in its sports betting program while ensuring compliance with contracting laws.
The settlements mark an important step toward accountability, but the GambetDC saga serves as a cautionary tale for government officials and businesses alike.
MGM China is on track to deliver significant financial results for the final quarter of 2024, with analysts predicting an adjusted EBITDA of approximately HK$2 billion (US$250 million). This reflects a 5% quarter-on-quarter increase, showcasing the company’s strong post-pandemic recovery trajectory. Investment bank Jefferies estimates MGM China’s gross gaming revenue (GGR) will rise by 7% to HK$8.5 billion (US$1.1 billion), outpacing the broader Macau gaming industry, which is forecasted to grow by only 3% in the same period. This growth positions MGM China as a leader in the market, with its share expected to climb to 15.8%, up from 14.8% in Q3.
VIP Segment Fuels Success
A key driver of MGM China’s success lies in its strong VIP segment performance. Analysts Anne Ling and Jingjue Pei from Jefferies highlight that MGM’s strategic focus on attracting high-value customers has bolstered its market share. Despite this, rising operating expenses, including the launch of the Poly MGM Museum and the Macau 2049 residency show, are expected to temper EBITDA margin growth, which is projected to hold steady at 27%.
Nevertheless, the company’s investment in enhancing its Macau properties is seen as essential for sustaining its competitive edge. Combined property EBITDA for MGM Macau and MGM Cotai is forecasted to reach HK$2.1 billion (US$269.6 million), marking a 5% increase from the previous quarter.
Diversification Beyond Gaming
MGM China is prioritizing non-gaming attractions to diversify its revenue streams and appeal to a broader audience. The Poly MGM Museum, which opened in November 2024, and the Macau 2049 show, launched in December 2024, are central to this strategy. These initiatives aim to elevate MGM Cotai’s entertainment offerings and drive foot traffic from non-gaming visitors.
Kenneth Feng, MGM China’s president, has credited the company’s understanding of premium mass gamblers for its record-breaking revenue in 2023. This insight continues to guide the company’s long-term strategy of balancing gaming and non-gaming investments.
Challenges Ahead in 2025
While 2024 has been a year of strong recovery, MGM China faces a more competitive landscape in 2025. Rivals in the Macau gaming industry are expected to ramp up premium offerings and smart table technology, intensifying market competition. Despite this, Jefferies analysts believe MGM China’s focus on premium mass customers and property upgrades will help it maintain its market position.
The broader Macau gaming market is projected to see slower growth in Q4 2024, with only a 3% rise in GGR quarter-on-quarter. Still, MGM China’s robust VIP segment and non-gaming investments are anticipated to ensure its growth surpasses the industry average.
A Positive Outlook for MGM China
In summary, MGM China is expected to close 2024 on a high note, leveraging its VIP segment strength, market-leading strategies, and diversification efforts. As competition heats up in 2025, the company’s continued focus on premium mass customers and innovative non-gaming attractions will be critical to its sustained success.
In a landmark decision on 10 January 2025, the Supreme Court of India temporarily stayed ₹1.12 lakh crore in Goods and Services Tax (GST) show-cause notices issued to online gaming companies. This decision, which halts proceedings until a conclusive resolution is reached, provides much-needed relief to an industry already grappling with regulatory uncertainties. The Court has consolidated all related cases for a final hearing scheduled on 18 March 2025.
Core Issue: Taxing Games of Skill vs Gambling
The crux of the debate revolves around the interpretation of GST’s applicability to online gaming. While the government argues for a 28% GST on the full contest entry fees—including prize pools—gaming companies maintain that the tax should be applied only to platform commissions, particularly for skill-based games. The industry contends that equating games of skill with gambling or betting is unjustified and stifles innovation.
Impact of 28% GST: A Sector at Risk
The GST Council’s reclassification of all online games under the 28% tax slab in October 2023 has drawn sharp criticism from industry stakeholders. Previously, skill-based games were taxed at a lower rate of 18%. The retrospective application of this higher rate, going back to 2018, has further exacerbated concerns.
Tax experts have voiced their concerns. Saurabh Agarwal, Tax Partner at EY, described the upcoming March hearing as pivotal for shaping the regulatory framework. “A balanced taxation system is crucial to nurture this rapidly growing sector,” he noted.
Industry Reactions: Hope Amidst Uncertainty
The Supreme Court’s stay has sparked optimism across the online gaming industry. Abhishek Rastogi, legal counsel for several gaming companies, highlighted the significance of the decision. “This stay prevents coercive action by tax authorities and safeguards procedural fairness,” he stated.
Anuraag Saxena, CEO of the E-Gaming Federation, welcomed the ruling as a “win-win” for both operators and the government. He expressed confidence that a fair resolution could catalyse investment, job creation, and sector growth. The market mirrored this optimism, with Delta Corp’s stock surging by 17% following the announcement.
Challenges Ahead: Legal and Financial Hurdles
The Supreme Court’s intervention comes amidst a broader crackdown on alleged GST evasion. Between 2022 and mid-2023, the Directorate General of GST Intelligence issued 71 show-cause notices to online gaming firms. The government claims that these companies exploited ambiguities in taxation laws to underreport liabilities.
The industry’s challenges are compounded by the mandatory registration of overseas gaming firms in India, a policy introduced in October 2023. Gaming platforms have also criticised the government for taxing the total value of bets instead of the gross gaming revenue, arguing that this approach undermines the viability of their operations.
A Defining Moment for Online Gaming
The March 2025 hearing will be a turning point for India’s online gaming landscape. A decision to tax skill-based games differently from gambling could pave the way for regulatory clarity, fostering innovation and global competitiveness. Conversely, maintaining the current approach may jeopardise the industry’s growth, with several firms warning of potential closures.
Looking Ahead: Balancing Growth and Governance
The resolution of this GST dispute will not only shape the future of online gaming in India but also set a precedent for balancing taxation with innovation. As India aspires to become a global hub for digital gaming, the industry hopes for a regulatory environment that supports its potential while addressing legitimate governance concerns.
Delta Air Lines has embarked on an ambitious journey into the world of gaming, partnering with DraftKings in a collaboration that has aviation and gambling enthusiasts buzzing. The announcement came during Delta CEO Ed Bastian’s keynote at the 2025 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. While the details remain scarce, the move signals Delta’s determination to redefine inflight entertainment with its innovative Delta Sync experience.
“Gaming has become a daily staple for many of our customers,” said Bastian. “They shouldn’t have to hit pause just because they’re in the sky.” The announcement, made fittingly in the gaming capital of the world, hints at a future where passengers might enjoy a more interactive and engaging inflight experience.
Gaming in the Sky: A Dream Deferred by Legislation
Despite the excitement, Delta’s vision faces a significant hurdle: the Gambling Devices Act of 1962, which prohibits gambling on U.S. commercial flights. This federal regulation applies to all U.S. carriers and flights beginning or ending in the United States, effectively grounding any hopes of real-money betting onboard—at least for now.
Yet, the rapid expansion of legalized sports betting in various states has reignited discussions about revisiting these regulations. Analysts speculate that Delta’s partnership with DraftKings may be laying the groundwork for a potential future where inflight gambling is legal. Until then, the collaboration is likely to focus on gamified experiences like fantasy sports or play-money games, allowing Delta to sidestep legal restrictions while offering passengers a taste of what could be.
What Could This Partnership Look Like?
Delta and DraftKings have been tight-lipped about the specifics, but several possibilities have been floated. Passengers might soon be able to enjoy interactive games, fantasy sports competitions, or even earn rewards like SkyMiles through DraftKings. The idea of integrating gaming into seatback screens could mark a turning point for inflight entertainment, pushing boundaries beyond movies and music.
“Delta is excited to collaborate with DraftKings as we expand our gaming portfolio,” the airline stated. “Details on how DraftKings will be incorporated into Delta Sync will be revealed in due time.”
Aviation and Gaming: The Next Frontier?
Delta’s move mirrors efforts by other airlines to monetize entertainment. In 2024, EasyJet’s parent company launched easyBet.net, a peer-to-peer betting platform, while UK budget airlines have long sold scratchcards onboard. These ventures underscore the growing synergy between aviation and gaming.
Historically, inflight gambling has faced challenges. Singapore Airlines’ 1980s experiment with onboard slot machines ended due to logistical issues, while concerns about passenger behavior have kept other airlines from adopting gambling. Nevertheless, studies suggest inflight gambling could generate significant revenue, with past estimates projecting up to $1.3 billion annually for large carriers.
Will Delta Lead a Regulatory Shift?
With the potential for lucrative returns, could Delta and DraftKings spearhead efforts to revisit inflight gambling laws? Industry experts believe it’s possible. By aligning with a major player like DraftKings, Delta positions itself to be at the forefront of this potential transformation. If the legal landscape shifts, Delta could roll out inflight gambling faster than its competitors.
For now, the partnership represents a bold step into uncharted territory. Whether it leads to legislative change or simply enhances inflight entertainment, Delta is making it clear that it’s ready to soar into the future of gaming.
