This Week in Gambling

When a sports book in Costa Rica paid off over $46 million to the US Department of Justice, something seemed wrong. After all, what possible motivation would there be when they operate outside of American jurisdiction? Then, the “ah ha” moment! Their eyes were on the prize: A 5Dimes US market entry! The operator agreed to pay $46.8 million in a settlement with the DoJ following an investigation that the operator illegally targeting American customers. Shortly afterward, they announced plans to enter the regulated US sports betting market. In addition, it explained the decision to block US customers, effective 25…

In a move that is sure to shake up the gambling industry, Caesars buys William Hill for close to $4 billion. The deal was announced today, as shareholders of the British bookmaker will receive a 25% premium with a closing share price of 217.60 pence. The two companies said on Monday that they were in advanced talks over a possible offer at 272 pence for each William Hill share, which the U.K. company said was “minded” to recommend to its shareholders. ““William Hill’s sports betting expertise will complement Caesars’ current offering, enabling the combined group to better serve our customers…

Virgin Hotels has announced that their property’s grand opening in Las Vegas has been set for January 15, 2021. Located in the space of the former Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, it will include a 60,000 square foot casino operated by Mohegan Sun. At a press event featuring property partners and investors the company said the revitalized property, part of Curio Collection by Hilton, will open as Virgin Las Vegas on that date, being revealed on a digital mobile billboard. The highly-anticipated arrival of Virgin comes as several new resorts are expected to be opening in the coming months including…

The war for US sports betting domination has begun, and with over $150 billion in annual revenue up for grabs the stakes are high. This week the first shots were fired in what is sure to be a long and hard fought battle.   Hello my friends! Thanks so much for streaming another edition of This Week in Gambling, where the battle for sports betting supremacy in America has begun… and that is this week’s big story! Betting on sports is now legal in 22 states and the District of Columbia. Plus, another seven states are currently considering regulating the…

Caesars Entertainment has announced that another of their strip properties will be reopening soon! The Planet Hollywood hotel and casino will welcome guests back beginning October 8th with the gaming floor open 7 days a week. The hotel, however, will be limited to weekend stays of Thursdays through Sundays. Additional amenities available at the property will include Gordon Ramsay Burger, Planet Hollywood Spa by Mandara, the Miracle Mile Shops, the newly branded William Hill Race & Sports Book and more. This announcement follows the successful reopening of Caesars Palace Las Vegas, Flamingo Las Vegas, Harrah’s Las Vegas, Paris Las Vegas,…

We’re taking a look at the Diamond Trails Ocean Winnings slot machine from Konami Gaming, their new linked progressive games on the Concerto Opus and KX43 cabinets! Both slot games come with their Triple Sparkle Feature! Diamond Trails Ocean Winnings allows players to win up to 12 free games and four different jackpots during the Diamond Trails feature! The Ocean Winnings is a symbol-driven progressive game featured on the company’s jumbo cabinets KX43 and Concerto Opus. It gives players a unique instant credit prize feature while they work toward linked and stand-alone jackpot opportunities. The Ocean Winnings slot is a…