The chief executive of MGM Resorts addressed skepticism over the future of Las Vegas tourism this week, pushing back against criticism and offering a more optimistic view of the city’s prospects. Their CEO, Bill Hornbuckle, spoke before Nevada gaming regulators as part of MGM’s licensing review, calling negative narratives about Las Vegas tourism “silly.” He argued that long-term trends point to steady gains, and that recent soft spots are part of a normal cycle. According to Hornbuckle, Las Vegas gaming revenue has grown on average 4.5 to 5 percent per year over the past 30 years. He said that claims…

MGM and Formula 1 have renewed their founding partnership for the Las Vegas Grand Prix, keeping its involvement in the race weekend through 2030. The agreement will ensure that the Bellagio Fountain Club remains the venue for the winner’s stage and offers fans a view of the track’s fastest straightaway, where cars exceed 210 mph. The venue includes features such as a rooftop lounge, premium wines, an open bar, and culinary offerings from top chefs. Emily Prazer, president and CEO of Las Vegas Grand Prix, Inc., said that MGM and Formula 1 cooperation has helped define the Grand Prix’s identity…

MGM Resorts has announced plans to rebrand Delano Las Vegas before the end of this year. The 43 story tower on the south end of the Strip will be renamed W Las Vegas. However, this is not the first name change for the building. It was originally known as THEhotel at Mandalay Bay before becoming Delano in 2014. The change from Delano Las Vegas to simply “W” is part of a significant collaboration between MGM and Marriott International, building on their long-term strategic licensing agreement established in July 2023. Steve Zanella, president of MGM Resorts operations, praised the partnership for…

The fight to have the most iconic Las Vegas casino is one that never sleeps. In fact, one is even themed after the city that never sleeps: New York, New York! And now, owners MGM have big plans for their property themed after the Big Apple! The company has announced plans for a $63 million remodel of over 1,800 rooms and 150 suites. The company tasked with this project is HVS Design, and they stated in a press release that the remodel “will feature vibrant new designs and upgraded in-room amenities”. In the simplest of terms, MGM wants to make…

MGM Resorts brought on over $2.7 billion in revenue for the third quarter of this year. However, the company still wants to sell their Mirage Casino and Hotel property on the Las Vegas Strip. Their announcement does come as a bit of a surprise if you consider the earnings report they just released showed revenue growth of 140%. Also, MGM Resorts did just purchase the operational rights to The Cosmopolitan property on the Strip at City Center. Their CEO, Bill Hornbuckle, stated that MGM had another strong quarter which was primarily due to domestic operations, adding that the results showed…

This week’s gambling news finds that the loosening of restrictions on Las Vegas casinos has several (MGM properties) making the decision to return to 24 hour, 7 day a week service. Meanwhile, the Virgin Las Vegas Hotel and Casino has set a new opening date, and even some Las Vegas shows are reopening with the expanding capacity limits. We also say goodbye to Full Tilt Poker, as PokerStars is closing the brand.   Hello, friends! Thanks so much for joining me on another edition of This Week in Gambling! And hey, couldn’t we all use some good news right about…