Card Player – A division of Malaysia-based Genting Group reportedly has struck a deal in the state of Florida that will allow it to get involved with some gambling there, though not as full-fledged as it had once hoped for with a billion-dollar casino-resort in South Florida, CBS Miami reported.
The deal, if approved, calls for slot machines and a card room at an already-purchased downtown Miami property. It would not include racing, which is a big deal in Florida. Decoupling them is technically against the law. In other words, the plan would make the establishment much closer to a commercial Las Vegas-style casino than some are comfortable with. It remains to be seen if the state will give the project the green light.
Establishing the facility would involve relocating a permit that one of Genting’s partners in the project already has for a slot and racetrack.
Supporters of the plan say it would inject millions into the state’s gambling industry.
“We think we’re one of the preeminent gaming companies in the world. We’re looking for a way to move the initiative forward,” Resorts World CFO Christian Goode said. “This is just one opportunity or potential opportunity. If it’s not viable, then we’ll pursue other means.”
In addition to the gambling facility, Genting has plans to put up three condo towers, a promenade along the water and a 500-room luxury hotel, CBS reported.
