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the glittering gambling edifice perched on Sydney’s Pyrmont foreshore
Star 2.0 will probably not feature the high-end luxury retailers greeting guests
an entranceway lined with limos or glamorous and expensive eateries to entice wealthy tastebuds
Think of the new Star Entertainment properties as a cross between the aforementioned and those that will more closely resemble a monster-sized RSL
Bally’s chairman Soo Kim has big plans for Star.Credit: Dominic Lorrimer
The chairman of Bally’s – the US company in the throes of bailing out and taking control of Star’s NSW and Gold Coast casinos – declares that “these assets were built for a time that has now passed”
these probably won’t rate high on tourism industry brochures as NSW or Gold Coast destinations
But even with the best-laid plans for an overhaul of Star
Bally’s will need a large lashing of luck for these Australian casinos to begin making a financial return for its would-be new controllers
Bally’s is a relatively small US company that has plenty of experience running smaller and lower-tier casinos in less salubrious locations but prizes itself on buying troubled casinos and turning them around
With Star bleeding up to $30 million in cash a month
there is no room for gradual implementation of the changes needed
to Australia last week for a “tour of the factory floor”
He agrees that Star will need to be metaphorically burned down to make way for another kind of gambling establishment
The VIP gamblers from China drifted away years ago after Australian casinos cosied up to dubious junket operators
thus becoming embroiled in the unsavoury underbelly of money-laundering
When these relationships were exposed by the media
starting with numerous legal inquiries and finishing with a regulatory crackdown that has rendered the casino model uneconomic
The lack of adherence to checks and balances around risky and problem gamblers further added to the incentive for state governments and regulators to overhaul the casino industry
What is left of Star is now as close to broke as any company can be outside administration
And the US company proposing to take control of Star Entertainment and provide the finance to keep the lights on cares little for the trimmings
but it needs a return – and the runway isn’t very long
the company that picked up the pieces of Star’s competitor Crown
Bally’s is a relatively small operator and is betting its balance sheet on Star
It has provided Star with an initial $100 million to keep it solvent for long enough for Bally’s to get the regulatory and shareholder approvals needed to become its major shareholder
which manages more than $1 trillion in assets
picked up the pieces of Crown.Credit: Bloomberg
But with Star bleeding up to $30 million in cash a month
Costs will need to be stripped out of Star – and the corporate device used first almost always by companies in this situation is to cut staffing levels
has spent the past nine months cutting $100 million from the company’s cost base
Kim is not about to signal his punches before he gets control of Star
so it remains to be seen if his plan involves large-scale redundancies
Bally’s other immediate challenge is to stem the flow of customers abandoning casinos because they have an aversion to new regulations
the introduction of carded play and gambling limits sits awkwardly with many gamblers
While these new rules have yet to hit Queensland venues
Star has already introduced a stricter “know your customer” regime which has led to a portion of anonymity-sensitive customers deserting the company’s Gold Coast venue
McCann believes that Star’s salvation depends on the introduction of the same regulatory restrictions across all gaming venues including pubs and clubs which have to date escaped more onerous rules
Kim says he won’t be pushing the state governments to level the regulatory playing field
He says his company just wants a chance to get on the field and get a hold of the ball
The Business Briefing newsletter delivers major stories, exclusive coverage and expert opinion. Sign up to get it every weekday morning
the glittering gambling edifice perched on Sydney\\u2019s Pyrmont foreshore
The chairman of Bally\\u2019s \\u2013 the US company in the throes of bailing out and taking control of Star\\u2019s NSW and Gold Coast casinos \\u2013 declares that \\u201Cthese assets were built for a time that has now passed\\u201D
these probably won\\u2019t rate high on tourism industry brochures as NSW or Gold Coast destinations
Bally\\u2019s will need a large lashing of luck for these Australian casinos to begin making a financial return for its would-be new controllers
Bally\\u2019s is a relatively small US company that has plenty of experience running smaller and lower-tier casinos in less salubrious locations but prizes itself on buying troubled casinos and turning them around
to Australia last week for a \\u201Ctour of the factory floor\\u201D
What is left of Star is now as any company can be outside administration
but it needs a return \\u2013 and the runway isn\\u2019t very long
the company that picked up the pieces of Star\\u2019s competitor Crown
Bally\\u2019s is a relatively small operator and is betting its balance sheet on Star
It has provided Star with an initial $100 million to keep it solvent for long enough for Bally\\u2019s to get the regulatory and shareholder approvals needed to become its major shareholder
Costs will need to be stripped out of Star \\u2013 and the corporate device used first almost always by companies in this situation is to cut staffing levels
has spent the past nine months cutting $100 million from the company\\u2019s cost base
Bally\\u2019s other immediate challenge is to stem the flow of customers abandoning casinos because they have an aversion to new regulations
Star has already introduced a stricter \\u201Cknow your customer\\u201D regime which has led to a portion of anonymity-sensitive customers deserting the company\\u2019s Gold Coast venue
McCann believes that Star\\u2019s salvation depends on the introduction of the same regulatory restrictions across all gaming venues including pubs and clubs which have to date escaped more onerous rules
Kim says he won\\u2019t be pushing the state governments to level the regulatory playing field
The Business Briefing newsletter delivers major stories
says the company’s luxury casinos will need to lose some of the glitz and glamour as they start life over from scratch
Kim said Bally’s currently doesn’t operate any casinos that are as big as Star’s and would need to run them differently
Bally’s Corporation chairman Soo Kim outside the Star Casino in Sydney.Credit: Dominic Lorrimer
“We don’t currently operate casinos that look like this
I agree with the metaphor that we need to burn [the business model] down and start again.”
Kim built his career with hedge fund Standard General, which specialises in picking up distressed assets in regulated industries such as casinos, cannabis, tobacco and television – and has led to it being labelled a vulture fund by rivals
A successful takeover of Star would mean its facilities in Sydney and Queensland join Bally’s existing roster of 19 casinos
“I think there is a happy medium between pubs/clubs and a VIP-focused business.”
Bally’s pitched its $300 million deal to Star in early April
after the casino operator failed to secure a $940 million lifeline from investment company Salter Brothers
Rhode Island-based Bally’s and Star’s largest investor
would inject fresh funds to keep Star afloat
The casino operator has already received $100 million as part of the agreement
The deal is subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals
Star, which employs 8000 staff across NSW and Queensland, revealed this week that it was on the verge of calling in administrators before the Bally’s rescue deal came into the picture
‘I think it is too early days for us to say
Releasing its long-delayed financial accounts on Tuesday
the casino operator said that revenue across all its operations was sliding as pubs and clubs kept picking up a greater share of punters
Star reported a net loss of $302 million for the December half-year
including $166 million in significant items that included a writedown of the value of its Brisbane casino
which is being sold to its partners in the precinct – Far East Consortium and Chow Tai Fook Enterprises
said this week that while poker machine revenue was continuing to rise across NSW and Queensland
the casino operator was not benefiting from it because of tighter regulations
and our loss of market share across the Sydney and Gold Coast properties has had a material impact on the business
and we are continuing to operate through very challenging conditions,” he said
Pubs and clubs are not subject to the card-only gambling and stricter know-your-customer requirements that are being implemented across Star’s casinos
Kim said on Friday that Star’s current numbers did not fully reflect the “economic potential” of its assets
“We are willing to put our money where our mouth is and try to see if we can’t impact the operations and improve it so these assets do achieve their potential.”
While Star’s fortunes have been hamstrung by stricter regulations
Kim said Bally’s was not interested in running to the respective state governments to ask them for regulatory relief
“I think it is too early days for us to say
we just can’t compete without help’,” he said
to find the right business that meets the market today
we will be in a position to say whether it’s unfair and we need help.”
The Market Recap newsletter is a wrap of the day’s trading. Get it each weekday afternoon
Star Entertainment\\u2019s prospective owner
says the company\\u2019s luxury casinos will need to lose some of the glitz and glamour as they start life over from scratch
Kim said Bally\\u2019s currently doesn\\u2019t operate any casinos that are as big as Star\\u2019s and would need to run them differently
\\u201CWe don\\u2019t currently operate casinos that look like this
I agree with the metaphor that we need to burn [the business model] down and start again.\\u201D
Kim built his career with hedge fund Standard General
which specialises in picking up distressed assets in regulated industries such as casinos
tobacco and television \\u2013 and has led to it being fund by rivals
A successful takeover of Star would mean its facilities in Sydney and Queensland join Bally\\u2019s existing roster of 19 casinos
and you need to start again,\\u201D he said
\\u201CI think there is a happy medium between pubs/clubs and a VIP-focused business.\\u201D
Rhode Island-based Bally\\u2019s and Star\\u2019s largest investor
which employs 8000 staff across NSW and Queensland
revealed this week that it was on the verge of calling in administrators before the came into the picture
which is being sold to its partners in the precinct \\u2013 Far East Consortium and Chow Tai Fook Enterprises
\\u201CThe ongoing impact of regulatory reforms
and we are continuing to operate through very challenging conditions,\\u201D he said
Pubs and clubs are not subject to the card-only gambling and stricter know-your-customer requirements that are being implemented across Star\\u2019s casinos
Kim said on Friday that Star\\u2019s current numbers did not fully reflect the \\u201Ceconomic potential\\u201D of its assets
\\u201CWe are willing to put our money where our mouth is and try to see if we can\\u2019t impact the operations and improve it so these assets do achieve their potential.\\u201D
While Star\\u2019s fortunes have been hamstrung by stricter regulations
Kim said Bally\\u2019s was not interested in running to the respective state governments to ask them for regulatory relief
\\u201CI think it is too early days for us to say
we just can\\u2019t compete without help\\u2019,\\u201D he said
we will be in a position to say whether it\\u2019s unfair and we need help.\\u201D
The Market Recap newsletter is a wrap of the day\\u2019s trading.
\\u2018I think it is too early days for us to say
we just can\\u2019t compete without help.\\u2019
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Star Entertainment Group Ltd (ASX: SGR) is reported to have accepted a $250 million takeover offer from US-based Bally's Corporation in order to avoid a potential collapse
The Australian reports that after a number of meetings held last Friday, the embattled casino has decided to accept the offer after a $940 million funding deal was withdrawn last week
The agreement marks the end of a challenging period for Star as it narrowly averts administration
which would have threatened over 8,000 jobs across its operations in Sydney
Star Casino shares are currently suspended and were last at 11 cents apiece
The deal involves Bally's acquiring at least a 50.1% stake in Star via a $250 million capital raise
will also contribute more than $50 million to the deal
bringing the total package to $300 million
The takeover plan is a vital development for Star
It has faced mounting pressure after failing to secure a rescue package from Melbourne-based Salter Brothers last week
One is the rising costs of its new Queen's Wharf integrated resort in Brisbane
it was the series of legal challenges over these past few years that underline the company's current standing
These include money laundering allegations
coupled with the outcome of the Bell Two report
ultimately left the company on the brink of financial ruin
which has a reputation for swooping in to rescue struggling casino operations
aims to keep Star's assets intact rather than strip them
has stated that a unified approach will benefit all of Star's properties instead
We think that things tend to operate better if they're one larger organisation where you can actually generate benefits for each of the properties one by one by making one tweak in one place
It's important to note that Star Casino hasn't confirmed or denied these reports at the time of publication
One area of uncertainty is Star's ongoing partnership with Chow Tai Fook Enterprises and Far East Consortium in the Queen's Wharf precinct of Brisbane
As The Australian Financial Review reports today, back in March, Star agreed to sell its 50% stake in the Brisbane project for $50 million
Star's new owners will have to navigate not only the operational challenges at its Australian properties but also the ongoing legal scrutiny
Time will tell what eventuates from all of this
Star last traded with a market value of just over $300 million
Motley Fool contributor Zach Bristow has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy
This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691)
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(Chinabank) is opening up for sale the site of Emerald Bay Hotel and Casino in Cebu
after giving Davao-based businessman Dennis Uy’s PH Resorts Group Holdings (PHR) over a year to repurchase the property
Chinabank chairman Hans Sy said the company will start with parties who have shown interest for the property
which PHR — through its subsidiary Lapulapu Leisure Inc
(LLI) — sold to Chinabank in 2023 as part of a debt restructuring agreement as it had to settle a P3.1-billion loan
“We gave Dennis really a chance to redeem
Siyempre nakikiusap (Of course he is appealing)
It’s really in our name,” Sy said in a recent interview with reporters
as he said a year and a half has already passed.”
Under the agreement between the two parties
and was given an option to repurchase the property
we’re not renewing anymore,” Sy said
noting that parties have already shown interest in the property given its location
when asked if the SM Group would be interested in acquiring the property
The property, an estimated 12.4-hectare land located on the Punta Engaño peninsula of Mactan Island
was set to host Emerald Bay which was planned to have 7,585 square meters of aggregate gaming floor area and a five-star hotel with approximately 838 rooms
The integrated resort was targeted to have a soft opening in March 2022, but PHR cited difficulties on labor and delivery of materials due to the quarantine measures brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.
To recall, among those that previously expressed intent to invest in the project are AppleOne Properties Inc., Bloomberry Resorts Inc., and the latest being Tiger Resort Leisure and Entertainment Inc., but such parties have since exited. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News
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Star Entertainment has failed to secure a $750 million lifeline from Salter Brothers
putting the operator of casinos and hotels in Sydney
Brisbane and the Gold Coast at risk of collapse for the third time in three months
The Australian Financial Review first reported the failure of discussions with Salter Brothers
an asset manager specialising in real estate
Star subsequently confirmed that discussions had ended
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Read MoreCasinosThe Star Entertainment GroupInsolvencyLatest In Gaming & wageringFetching latest articles
Star Entertainment avoided collapse on Friday after signing a deal to exit its Brisbane resort
but the casino operator’s shares will remain suspended from trading this week as the board remains unable to assure themselves that the company is a going concern
“This transaction is an important milestone for the company and contributes to providing a potential pathway towards financial viability,” chief executive Steve McCann said
Star received a $35 million cash payment on Friday after agreeing to sell its 50 per cent stake in Brisbane’s Queen’s Wharf casino to its partners
Hong Kong-based Far East Consortium and Chow Tai Fook Enterprises
which will now take full ownership of the venue and business
The sale of Star’s Brisbane casino will ensure it has enough cash to survive for a few more weeks.Credit: Glenn Campbell
The deal will end its exposure to further financial demands at Queens Wharf and raise its exposure to the properties surrounding its Gold Coast resort
But Star only has a few weeks to secure the longer-term funding plans – which it also unveiled late on Friday – needed to keep itself afloat
This includes a $250 million bridging finance facility which will underpin its finances until the end of April while a proposed financing proposal is explored that could provide up to $940 million in debt capacity
Star confirmed that the latter is needed to ensure its long-term survival and hence allow Star’s board to sign off on its financial accounts and allow its shares to trade again
would provide The Star with sufficient liquidity to refinance all of the Group’s existing corporate debt and is not conditional on either the purchase of the existing senior debt at a discount to par or any government tax deferrals or waivers,” Star said
Star flagged on Friday that there was no certainty that the $940 million refinancing proposal would succeed
and the bridging facility from King Street Capital Management – which charges 15 per cent interest rate – was subject to numerous conditions
“The conditions precedent to the Bridge Facility include
entering into an intercreditor agreement with The Star’s existing lenders
obtaining relevant probity approvals and regulatory consents for The Star to provide first ranking security over The Star Gold Coast (and associated assets),” Star said on Friday
Star said on Friday that the unnamed financier of its long-term financing proposal is expected to complete due diligence as early as March 18 while the two parties work towards a concrete offer
The deal to sell its new Brisbane casino will mean its two partners pay a total of $53 million for Star’s share of the venue and it will also receive $5 million a month to run the casino
rising to $6 million a month as of next year
“The QWB Project is a world-class entertainment and leisure precinct in the heart of Brisbane’s central business district
one of Australia’s fastest growing cities and the host of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” Far East said on Friday
The Brisbane deal with its joint-venture partners also gives Star more real estate exposure to its Gold Coast casino which McCann – the former CEO of property giant Lend Lease – is planning to exploit and help offset the risks in its gambling business
“We are excited about our future in the Gold Coast
We will have almost 1200 hotel rooms at the Gold Coast following the opening of the five-star Andaz Hotel in late 2025 and believe that once we optimise these operations and our strategy
our full ownership of these hotels will enhance our integrated offering and provide an opportunity to improve the performance of the business,” he said
Star faces years of financial losses and negative cash flow
Revenues are forecast to decline again this year and rise modestly the following year
including fines from the money laundering regulator AUSTRAC which is expected to exceed $300 million
the ability to restore our licences (including implementing our remediation plan and various regulatory reforms relating to carded play and cash and time limits)
resolving the various litigation and claims from historical issues and managing the business in a period of continuing lower revenue and negative cashflow,” he said on Friday
The Market Recap newsletter is a wrap of the day’s trading. Get it each weekday afternoon.
Star Entertainment avoided collapse on Friday after signing a deal to exit its Brisbane resort, but the casino operator\\u2019s shares will remain suspended from trading this week as the board remains unable to assure themselves that the company is a going concern.
\\u201CThis transaction is an important milestone for the company and contributes to providing a potential pathway towards financial viability,\\u201D chief executive Steve McCann said.
Star received a $35 million cash payment on Friday after agreeing to sell its 50 per cent stake in Brisbane\\u2019s Queen\\u2019s Wharf casino to its partners, Hong Kong-based Far East Consortium and Chow Tai Fook Enterprises, which will now take full ownership of the venue and business.
The deal will end its exposure to further financial demands at Queens Wharf and raise its exposure to the properties surrounding its Gold Coast resort.
But Star only has a few weeks to secure the longer-term funding plans \\u2013 which it also unveiled late on Friday \\u2013 needed to keep itself afloat.
This includes a $250 million bridging finance facility which will underpin its finances until the end of April while a proposed financing proposal is explored that could provide up to $940 million in debt capacity.
Star confirmed that the latter is needed to ensure its long-term survival and hence allow Star\\u2019s board to sign off on its financial accounts and allow its shares to trade again.
\\u201CThe Refinancing Proposal, if finalised, would provide The Star with sufficient liquidity to refinance all of the Group\\u2019s existing corporate debt and is not conditional on either the purchase of the existing senior debt at a discount to par or any government tax deferrals or waivers,\\u201D Star said.
Star flagged on Friday that there was no certainty that the $940 million refinancing proposal would succeed, and the bridging facility from King Street Capital Management \\u2013 which charges 15 per cent interest rate \\u2013 was subject to numerous conditions.
\\u201CThe conditions precedent to the Bridge Facility include, among others, entering into an intercreditor agreement with The Star\\u2019s existing lenders, obtaining relevant probity approvals and regulatory consents for The Star to provide first ranking security over The Star Gold Coast (and associated assets),\\u201D Star said on Friday.
Star said on Friday that the unnamed financier of its long-term financing proposal is expected to complete due diligence as early as March 18 while the two parties work towards a concrete offer.
The deal to sell its new Brisbane casino will mean its two partners pay a total of $53 million for Star\\u2019s share of the venue and it will also receive $5 million a month to run the casino, rising to $6 million a month as of next year.
The casino is under license to Star, who will continue to operate it.
\\u201CThe QWB Project is a world-class entertainment and leisure precinct in the heart of Brisbane\\u2019s central business district, one of Australia\\u2019s fastest growing cities and the host of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games,\\u201D Far East said on Friday.
The Brisbane deal with its joint-venture partners also gives Star more real estate exposure to its Gold Coast casino which McCann \\u2013 the former CEO of property giant Lend Lease \\u2013 is planning to exploit and help offset the risks in its gambling business.
\\u201CWe are excited about our future in the Gold Coast. We will have almost 1200 hotel rooms at the Gold Coast following the opening of the five-star Andaz Hotel in late 2025 and believe that once we optimise these operations and our strategy, our full ownership of these hotels will enhance our integrated offering and provide an opportunity to improve the performance of the business,\\u201D he said.
Star faces years of financial losses and negative cash flow. Revenues are forecast to decline again this year and rise modestly the following year. The company faces further penalties, including fines from the money laundering regulator AUSTRAC which is expected to exceed $300 million.
\\u201CThe company still faces various risks, including availability of funding, the ability to restore our licences (including implementing our remediation plan and various regulatory reforms relating to carded play and cash and time limits), maintaining support from stakeholders, resolving the various litigation and claims from historical issues and managing the business in a period of continuing lower revenue and negative cashflow,\\u201D he said on Friday.
The Market Recap newsletter is a wrap of the day\\u2019s trading. .
The Casino Olympic Memorial Pool upgrade has been a signature project for our region across a number of years
providing local families with high quality community facilities
has announced an elected Coalition Government will commit $1.3 million towards the next stage of the Casino Olympic Memorial Pool upgrade
“This is great news for our community,” Mr Hogan said
“The upgrades will include a 12-metre twin flume thrill slide
“The twin flume thrill slide will be a major drawcard for the pool
designed to give teenagers and families a fun
“I already know this is going to be a massive hit!”
“15,000 extra visitors have been through the gates of the pool since the first stage was finished
and I have no doubt that will increase once this is completed.”
“I was proud to secure $3.7 million for Stage One of the project and look forward to seeing this project through if the Coalition are elected on May 3.”
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Star Entertainment will sell its stake in the new Queen’s Wharf casino and entertainment complex in Brisbane
a deal that will give the company enough cash to stave off collapse for several months
Hong Kong’s Chow Tai Fook Enterprises and Far East Consortium said in a statement on Friday that they would acquire Star’s 50 per cent in the newly opened Brisbane complex as well as the Treasury hotel and car park
Star Entertainment has updated the market on two regulatory matters and progress with its rescue plan
Star Entertainment Group Ltd (ASX: SGR) shares remain frozen amid news that the Queensland and NSW governments have given the company a lifeline
After yesterday's market close, Star Entertainment lodged an update with the ASX regarding The Star Gold Coast
The company advised that the Queensland Government has deferred the suspension of The Star's casino licence until 30 September
The Star Gold Coast was due to have its casino licence suspended for 90 days from next Monday
The deferral gives the casino operator an extra three months to work on a financial rescue plan that is currently underway
The government has also ordered that the independent special manager
continue overseeing operations until 30 September
Queensland Attorney-General Deb Frecklington said:
The Government has made it clear that our expectations have not changed and The Star must progress its remediation
Based on the advice of the Special Manager we are satisfied The Star has been continuing to make positive progress under the agreement
The extension will provide The Star with additional time to deliver on its outstanding commitments while keeping its doors open
This deferral does not prevent us from taking immediate action should The Star fail to meet its remediation obligations
Star Entertainment also said the external advisor for The Star Brisbane would also remain in place until 30 September
Today, Star Entertainment issued another update regarding The Star Sydney
Star said the NSW Independent Casino Commission (NICC) has extended the suspension of The Star's licence until at least 30 September
The NICC also ordered that Nicholas Weeks continue in his role as special manager until at least 30 September
said there had been steady improvements in The Star Sydney's remediation
he said the company's dire financial situation meant progress had been slow
We welcome progress in The Star's remediation efforts and are confident the company is moving in the right direction with its remediation plans
The next six months is a critical phase for The Star as it will need to show further progress with its remediation activities whilst also stabilising its finances
Star Entertainment shares remain suspended from trading
The ASX stock has been frozen at 11 cents per share since 3 March
The ASX suspended Star Entertainment shares after the company failed to meet its 28 February deadline to lodge its 1H FY25 report
At the time, the company explained that it needed more liquidity to finalise the report
and there was "material uncertainty as to the Group's ability to continue as a going concern"
As we've previously reported
Star Entertainment is working on a proposed financial rescue plan
The plan involves Star Entertainment selling its 50% stake in Queen's Wharf in Brisbane and gaining a $250 million bridge loan through King Street Capital Management
as well as a five-year deal to refinance its debt with Salter Brothers Capital
On Tuesday, we got an update regarding the refinancing deal
Star Entertainment had previously announced it had entered into an exclusivity deed to enable Salter Brothers to complete its due diligence
Star announced on Tuesday that it has formally extended the exclusivity deed
… SBC is working towards making a binding offer of finance with respect to the Refinancing Proposal by 31 March 2025 which
would be followed by a further period of exclusivity to enable preparation of long form facility documentation and finalization of conditions precedent
Star Entertainment also has a second option to save itself
US casino giant Bally's Corporation has made an unsolicited funding offer for a controlling stake in Star Entertainment
Star Entertainment shares have fallen 79% over the past 12 months
Motley Fool contributor Bronwyn Allen has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy
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Star Entertainment’s Hong Kong investors have offered to take over the embattled casino group’s new Queen’s Wharf complex in Brisbane under a plan that would significantly ease the company’s financial woes
Chow Tai Fook Enterprises and Far East Consortium have been locked in discussions with Star for weeks about the future of the hotel and entertainment precinct
which has a $1.6 billion debt pile and still requires hundreds of millions of dollars to be completed
Read MoreCasinosThe Star Entertainment GroupLatest In Gaming & wageringFetching latest articles
Sports merch giant Fanatics is diving further into the gambling business by creating its own online casino
The industry widely views Fanatics as a potential disruptor to FanDuel and DraftKings' market dominance
Fanatics has relied on its brand and database of over 100 million people who have bought jerseys
Grant called the company's loyalty program its "secret weapon." It gives Fanatics a direct line to potential bettors
Grant said the casino player Fanatics is targeting now is a bit different from the traditional sports bettor
who is typically more male and mid-to-late 30s
Casino players tend to be female and late 30s or 40s
the company said its database is diverse in terms of demographics and is roughly half men and half women
"What is unique about Fanatics' position is that they have a good product
and they are able to reward people outside of just giving them promotional credits or money to play with," Macquarie analyst Chad Beynon said
Fanatics is running a sweepstakes promotion in May and June to give away $2 million in FanCash
Fanatics said it doesn't have to spend a lot of money on TV ads like others because of its database
though Grant said it also plans to market the casino app on TV
the gambling industry will be watching to see if it lives up to the hype
but its overall market share doesn't measure up to established players led by FanDuel and DraftKings
I would say they're slightly below expectations," Beynon said of Fanatics
Michael Rubin had mentioned that he wants a top-three position in the space
which would kind of warrant 10% market share
They haven't been able to achieve that this year or any year so far."
Fanatics said its sportsbook is at or very close to that goal in states where it operates
Grant said part of the reason Fanatics is launching the stand-alone casino app is to build awareness for the brand beyond sports
"We want to be the preferred destination for slot players and the US casino players," Grant said
"We want to give them a really special experience with really compelling rewards and unrivaled loyalty."
a gambling industry analyst and consultant
said Fanatics' biggest challenge and opportunity could be its ability to "not just peel off customers" from rivals but also win over new players who haven't gambled before
Fanatics has mainly focused on cross-selling casino games to sports bettors
who Grant said tend to be more into table games and live dealers
table and live make up roughly two-thirds of the amount wagered on Fanatics' casino games
The company expects that ratio to change with the new app and its growing focus on recreational slot players
The casino app will include a mix of games
It will have both licensed and original games
who previously ran Flutter's business in the UK and Ireland
said he's been surprised by how price-sensitive US casino players are compared to those in Europe
He said the company needs to be "really clever and targeted" with whom it's going after
He said his two biggest priorities for 2025 are establishing Fanatics Casino as a real alternative to the dominant market players in the states where it operates and making the loyalty program appealing to casino players
and we want to really entertain customers when they come and they choose to invest their leisure time and their spend with us," Grant said
"We want to make sure we give them a good experience for that."
Blackstone has sold the prominent riverfront Melbourne site mooted nearly 20 years ago to be Australia’s first Trump Tower
collected $85 million from PDG Corporation following a deal announced by the parties mid-last year
Blackstone seized the asset as part of its $8.9 billion buy-out of Crown Casino in 2022
in 2019 failed to gain approval to replace the block with a 90 level hotel-based mixed-use development
Following that submission, Crown bought the parcel from Schiavello for $80m
Schiavello was reported to have been trying to secure the rights to use the Trump Tower brand
for a luxury residential based proposal (story continues below)
has now applied to replace the parcel with a 67 storey residential project with an expected end value of c$1.5b (artist’s impression
It will contain 483 apartments – some which might be allocated for a hotel
PDG is already seeking registrations of interest
Assuming the project is approved this year
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Marc is the publisher of realestatesource.com.au
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The Star Entertainment Group has confirmed it was almost down to its last dollar when US casino group Bally’s injected $100 million as part of a rescue deal last week
Star’s business remains under threat as revenue continues to decline across all three of its properties in the March quarter as casino reforms blunted its competitiveness
This includes the uneven pokies playing field in Sydney that drove customers to pubs and clubs
which don’t have ID checks and bans on cash gambling
Revenue declines at Star’s Gold Coast property also partly reflected seasonal issues
Revenue declined more than $200 million for the half year to $650 million compared with the prior December half
but it was the March quarter performance that confirmed that Star was losing market share to pubs and clubs
know-your-customer requirements being implemented across Star’s casinos
Star said that revenue plunged 25 per cent for the December half-year
“reflecting challenging trading conditions due to the implementation of casino operating reforms [including mandatory carded play and cash limits which were implemented at The Star Sydney last year] and further loss of market share”
It said this created “an uneven competitive environment with pubs and clubs
which continues to negatively impact on operating performance”
Mandatory carded play reforms have not been introduced in Queensland yet
Star chief executive Steve McCann told investors on a conference call after the results were released that Star’s financial peril had affected customer numbers
“Clearly our performance continues to be very challenged as we navigate to a very difficult trading environment,” McCann said
and we are continuing to operate through very challenging conditions.”
McCann said the fact that poker machine revenue continued to rise across NSW and Queensland indicated that it was Star’s market share that had “materially declined”
It showed that a level playing field could lead to Star’s performance rebounding quickly
but McCann warned it could take years for these reforms to be implemented across the sector
Star said revenue declines at its Sydney and Gold Coast properties also partly reflected seasonal issues – and the Gold Coast closure due to tropical Cyclone Alfred
Star revealed this news with the late release of its December half-year accounts which had been delayed as the board had been unable to sign off on them due to concerns about the company’s survival
Star Entertainment CEO Steve McCann.Credit: Dominic Lorrimer
which is being sold to consortium partners
Star said there remained material uncertainty about the group’s ability to continue as a going concern while the details of its $300 million rescue package were being finalised with Bally’s and pubs billionaire Bruce Mathieson
Star revealed that it had just $98 million in cash available as of April 11 despite receiving a $100 million cash injection from Bally’s on the evening of April 9
It would have been out of cash if it had not received the funds
which were suspended from trading February 28 this year at 11¢
The Star Entertainment Group has confirmed it was almost down to its last dollar when US casino group Bally\\u2019s injected $100 million as part of a rescue deal last week
Star\\u2019s business remains under threat as revenue continues to decline across all three of its properties in the March quarter as casino reforms blunted its competitiveness
which don\\u2019t have ID checks and bans on cash gambling
know-your-customer requirements being implemented across Star\\u2019s casinos
\\u201Creflecting challenging trading conditions due to the implementation of casino operating reforms [including mandatory carded play and cash limits which were implemented at The Star Sydney last year] and further loss of market share\\u201D
It said this created \\u201Can uneven competitive environment with pubs and clubs
which continues to negatively impact on operating performance\\u201D
Star chief executive Steve McCann told investors on a conference call after the results were released that Star\\u2019s financial peril had affected customer numbers
\\u201CClearly our performance continues to be very challenged as we navigate to a very difficult trading environment,\\u201D McCann said
and we are continuing to operate through very challenging conditions.\\u201D
McCann said the fact that poker machine revenue continued to rise across NSW and Queensland indicated that it was Star\\u2019s market share that had \\u201Cmaterially declined\\u201D
It showed that a level playing field could lead to Star\\u2019s performance rebounding quickly
Star said revenue declines at its Sydney and Gold Coast properties also partly reflected seasonal issues \\u2013 and the Gold Coast closure due to tropical Cyclone Alfred
Star revealed this news with the late release of its December half-year accounts which had been delayed as the board had been unable to sign off on them due to concerns about the company\\u2019s survival
Star said there remained material uncertainty about the group\\u2019s ability to continue as a going concern while the details of its $300 million rescue package were being finalised with Bally\\u2019s and pubs billionaire Bruce Mathieson
Star revealed that it had just $98 million in cash available as of April 11 despite receiving a $100 million cash injection from Bally\\u2019s on the evening of April 9
which were suspended from trading February 28 this year at 11\\u00A2
2025Miriam Adelson listens during a Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony in the East Room of the White House in Washington
2018.Andrew Harrer/Bloomberg/Getty Images.Save this storySaveSave this storySaveOne hundred days ago
The billionaire and far-right mega-donor was in the Capitol Rotunda
Pepper’s coat and her signature round sunglasses
standing next to Laura Bush and Barack Obama
the man she had spent more than $100 million on
the league’s most talented young superstar
the gambling company founded by her late husband and fellow kingmaker Sheldon Adelson
was making slow progress toward its long-term goal of building a casino about 20 minutes’ drive from the squad’s home court
was the firm’s potential to land a license to operate a casino on Long Island
widely believed to be the one of the most lucrative untapped gambling markets on the planet
the MAGA queen would have a cash register that would never stop ringing
Adelson wasn’t the only Trump superfan trying to bid in this cobalt blue state
extreme first 100 days only made any highlighting of that connection more uncomfortable
pushing get-along moderates like Governor Kathy Hochul to reposition themselves as hell-no resistors
Adelson’s big bet on Trump may have helped spoil her even bigger bet on New York
“Not a fucking chance that Kathy Hochul lets a casino owned by Miriam Adelson into Nassau County
in the state of New York,” one casino industry insider says
“It’s like [liberal billionaire] George Soros opening a casino in Fort Worth
the state gaming commission will make the final decision on who gets three casino licenses in the New York City region later this year
“The governor isn’t getting involved in the process whatsoever
and anyone claiming otherwise is just lying,” says one senior Democrat in Albany
Hochul’s office directed Vanity Fair to similar pledges by the governor to stay hands-off
But even getting the chance to bid requires getting approval from local politicians
Sands long ago hired former Democratic governor David Paterson to help the famously Republican Adelsons in their New York casino quest
(“There was a lot of chatter that we were Republicans
blah,” one source familiar with the matter says
“So Paterson softens some of that.”) Former Michael Bloomberg spokesperson Michael Levoff also became SVP of public affairs and strategy at Sands
which retained the services of a number of outside PR and lobbying gurus
another Bloomberg alum and the former communications director for Chuck Schumer
new World Trade Center towers builder Larry Silverstein
Each team pledged billions of dollars to their casino proposals
And each team came with its own phalanx of fixers
but not nearly as much as the Adelsons have contributed to Republican campaigns like Trump’s over the years
all of this made him a much-discussed potential candidate in the 2026 GOP primary to challenge Hochul
And why should Hochul want to give him—and Miriam Adelson—this big of a win
“You think the governor can allow an ATM machine for the Republican Party—in a place where the county executive might be running against her?” the casino industry insider asks
The senior Albany Democrat calls that an “insane conspiracy theory,” while taking the opportunity to tie Blakeman to the collapse of the Sands bid in Nassau County
“Another massive failure on Bruce’s watch,” the Democrat says
The Sands project encountered other obstacles
It was never clear whether the company would knock down the actual Coliseum
or refurbish it for casino purposes—a significant detail
Nor did the company have a great answer for how the hell all of an estimated 20,000 daily customers were supposed to get there without clogging Long Island’s already famously crowded highways
The Coliseum has no access to public transportation
which is one of the reasons why the Islanders now play a few towns over in Elmont
and why Billy Joel’s next tour includes a stop instead at Cohen’s team’s ballpark
At least Trump managed a rally at the Coliseum last September
“We had multiple members of the Democratic legislature vote in favor of this,” the source with direct knowledge of the matter says
Aren’t you proud of me?” Miriam Adelson added to her daughter
that she was then filled with a sense of love
while Hochul is in positive territory for the first time in 15 months
after making a hard pivot against the president
“Trump’s acting a fool,” says the casino industry insider
“Miriam Adelson didn’t want to get dragged through the mud repeatedly
and they didn’t want to put in a bid and lose for that reason.”
The thinking went something like this: Better to sell the Coliseum lease to another company
Let the next guy deal with the political hassles that put question marks around our multibillion-dollar resorts
and the union contracts that eat into our margins
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From the Archive: Sinatra and the Mob
Star Entertainment’s former top lawyer broke down in the witness box after conceding that “with the benefit of hindsight” the casino operator should have terminated agreements with an Asian gambling junket provider
Paula Martin, Star’s former chief legal and risk officer, is one of nine former executives and directors being sued by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission that has alleged the casino’s board and some of its executives failed to appropriately manage risk and opened the company up to serious harm
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Executives at troubled gambling firm accused by Asic of putting profit over risk management
Former executives at embattled casino operator The Star put profit above risk when they failed to take action as junket operators potentially linked to crime gangs flaunted wads of cash and money in eskies, a judge has heard.
Lawyers for a slew of ex-heads from the embattled Star Entertainment Group appeared at the federal court as a lengthy hearing began on Monday.
Read moreThe Australian Securities and Investments Commission alleges they breached their obligations to manage the dangers of possible money laundering and other criminal activity in its Sydney
“This is a case about casinos and risk,” Asic barrister Ruth Higgins SC said as she opened submissions on Monday
“Not the risk involved when a player bets black instead of red in roulette or twists instead of sticking in blackjack.”
The Star executives and board behaved in “so incurious and complacent a manner” by allowing unacceptable legal
financial and reputational risks within the group between November 2016 and March 2022
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The firm maintained relationships with overseas junket operators, in particular one of the largest in Suncity, despite having evidence they were engaged in illicit activities and organised crime, she told Justice Michael Lee.
“Asic’s case concerns the maintenance and escalation of these business relationships despite a slew of profoundly troubling, publicly available information about junkets.”
Junkets were ripe for exploitation because they obscured the origin of funds, she told the court.
They also led to vast sums of money with a higher risk of being associated with Chinese triads flowing into Australia after a prohibition on gambling in China, Higgins said.
In Suncity’s dedicated space at The Star Sydney, known as Salon 95, bags of $50 notes were tied together with elastic bands, money was delivered to the service desk in blue esky bags and junket staff obscured the view of CCTV cameras by hiding under blankets, she said.
“These are acts uncluttered by subtlety and freighted with risk.”
Asic alleges that former chief executive Matthias Bekier, former company secretary and general counsel Paula Martin and former chief casino officer Greg Hawkins failed to promptly terminate or suspend the firm’s relationship with Suncity or inform the board of the risks.
The three executives were aware of repeated suspicious conduct by Suncity personnel at the Sydney casino, Higgins told the court.
Read moreFormer board members John O’Neill
Benjamin Heap and Zlatko Todorcevski are accused by Asic of failing to properly oversee The Star’s relationships with junket operators
“The directors of Star knew enough and more than enough about the risks that arose from junkets and red flags in relation to the junkets that were in fact operating at Star’s casinos,” Higgins argued
Former The Star executives have also been accused of providing misleading information to National Australia Bank about the use of China UnionPay debit cards in its casinos
China UnionPay had told The Star the use of its cards for gambling was prohibited
Higgins’ opening submissions will take three days in what is expected to be a lengthy and closely watched trial
Asic is seeking penalties as well as orders banning those sued from managing a corporation for a period to be set by the court
The hearings come as The Star struggles to stay afloat
battling falling revenues and the ongoing fallout from prior regulatory breaches
The firm agreed in February 2023 to pay $150m in penalties to Asic for its non-compliance with anti-money laundering laws
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Gambling is more than just a game of luck—it’s a science
Both physical and online casinos are increasingly relying on a branch of behavioral science known as Casino Psychology to design environments and experiences that keep players betting longer than they planned
From flashing lights and sound effects to game mechanics that mimic near wins
these features aren’t accidental—they’re engineered to exploit how the human brain responds to risk
According to the UK Gambling Commission’s Young People and Gambling 2023 report
44% of 11 to 17-year-olds had engaged in some form of gambling in the past year—whether that was scratchcards
but it does hint at how early the behavior begins—and how normalized it’s become in environments built to feel harmless and rewarding
studies published in Nature Human Behaviour and The Journal of Gambling Studies have explored how mechanisms like intermittent rewards
and loss aversion create a psychological storm: the kind that keeps people clicking long after the fun stops
These aren’t just bells and whistles—they’re subtle
precision-engineered nudges designed to override logic and encourage compulsion
we’ll explore the strategic design tricks casinos use—both on the gaming floor and behind the screen—to tap into our cognitive biases and keep us playing
Gambling isn’t merely a game of chance; it’s a complex interplay of psychological triggers and neurological responses that can ensnare even the most rational minds
a neurotransmitter intricately linked to pleasure and reward
When individuals anticipate or experience a win
reinforcing the behavior and encouraging repetition
This mechanism is strikingly similar to how addictive substances affect the brain
making gambling a potent source of psychological reinforcement
One of the most insidious aspects of gambling is the phenomenon of near-misses
These are outcomes that are tantalizingly close to a win
such as two matching symbols on a slot machine with the third just missing
Research has shown that near-misses can be more motivating than actual wins
as they activate the brain’s reward circuitry
particularly in the midbrain region associated with dopamine release
This response can lead individuals to continue gambling
chasing the elusive win that feels just within reach
Another psychological principle that gambling exploits is loss aversion
It’s when people tend to prefer avoiding losses over acquiring equivalent gains
the pain of losing $100 often outweighs the pleasure of winning the same amount
Casinos and online gambling platforms capitalize on this by structuring games and rewards in ways that minimize the perception of loss and maximize the anticipation of potential gains
Intermittent reinforcement further compounds the addictive nature of gambling
intermittent reinforcement provides rewards at unpredictable intervals
making the behavior more resistant to extinction
This unpredictability keeps players engaged
as they never know when the next win might occur
It’s a principle that has been well-documented in behavioral psychology and is a cornerstone of how gambling systems are designed to maintain player engagement
The illusion of control is yet another psychological trap
Gamblers often believe they can influence outcomes through skill or strategy
This belief can lead to increased risk-taking and prolonged gambling sessions
as individuals convince themselves that a win is just around the corner if they make the right move or choice
the sunk cost fallacy plays a significant role in gambling behavior
This is the tendency to continue an endeavor once an investment in money
Gamblers may continue to play in an attempt to recoup losses
believing that quitting would render their previous investments worthless
This mindset can lead to escalating bets and deeper financial losses
as individuals chase the hope of breaking even
Understanding these psychological mechanisms is crucial in recognizing the powerful grip that gambling can have on individuals
It’s not merely about the games themselves
but the intricate ways they interact with human psychology to create a compelling
and you’re not just entering a room—you’re stepping into a psychological maze built with precision
A silent conversation between architecture and your brain
This isn’t a conspiracy—it’s a strategy
Known in the industry as casino psychology
this discipline uses everything from lighting to layout to quietly steer your behavior
research from the Center for Gambling Studies at Rutgers University indicates that certain physical design elements in casinos
such as strategic layout and ambient features
can influence gamblers to extend their playtime
These environmental cues are deliberately crafted to encourage prolonged engagement
how casinos are built isn’t just clever—it’s profitable
You won’t find clocks or windows in a casino—not because someone forgot
This is one of the most time-tested casino psychology tricks out there
casinos create a sensory bubble where hours dissolve into background noise
It’s easy to think you’ve been playing for 45 minutes when it’s actually been three hours
Without natural light or ticking hands to anchor you
This tactic plays into a phenomenon known as “temporal distortion,” where the absence of time cues like clocks or windows leads players to lose track of time
there are studies that show such environments can significantly extend gambling sessions by disrupting players’ internal sense of time
Navigating a casino can feel like traversing a labyrinth
crafted to disorient and encourage exploration
By creating complex pathways and obscuring exits
casinos make it difficult for players to leave
often referred to as the “gaming design,” focuses on maximizing exposure to gaming opportunities
As players wander in search of restrooms or exits
they’re continually presented with enticing games and flashing lights
increasing the likelihood of spontaneous gambling decisions
Casinos meticulously position games to capture attention and encourage play
High-energy games like slot machines are often placed near entrances and along main walkways
drawing players in with their vibrant lights and sounds
are strategically located deeper within the casino
requiring patrons to pass numerous gaming options to reach them
This deliberate placement ensures that players are constantly exposed to gambling stimuli
The constant visual and auditory cues serve as subtle invitations to engage in additional play
capitalizing on impulsive behavior and increasing the time and money spent within the casino.
The cacophony of sounds and dazzling lights in a casino isn’t just for show; it’s a calculated strategy to stimulate the brain’s reward system
are designed to produce celebratory sounds and flashing lights even for small wins or near-misses
creating a sense of excitement and achievement
This is one of the more subtle but effective psychological tactics in casinos
The idea is simple: make every result feel like a win
That slot machine jingle you hear across the floor
It’s not random—it’s a reminder that “winning” is happening all around you
reinforcing your decision to stay and spin just one more time
The casino atmosphere influence plays a crucial role in how players behave
Casinos are designed to be comfortable and inviting
This carefully crafted atmosphere encourages players to linger
reducing the likelihood of them leaving the gaming floor
subtly increasing the time and money spent at the tables
The availability of free alcohol serves a dual purpose: it enhances the perception of hospitality and lowers inhibitions
their decision-making abilities can become impaired
leading to riskier bets and prolonged gambling sessions
This combination of comfort and indulgence is a powerful tool in the casino’s arsenal to keep players engaged.
Online casinos may lack the glitz and buzz of a casino floor
but don’t let the quieter interface fool you
These platforms are designed not just for gameplay
Through data tracking and behavioral modeling
they learn your habits fast—and adapt even faster
and when you typically play—every bit of that is used to subtly keep you engaged
And they’re good at it. Really good. Features like autoplay, personalized offers, and near-miss animations aren’t just added flair—they’re tested tools that make logging off feel unnatural. A 2024 study published in Frontiers in Psychiatry examined its real-world impact at an online casino in Sweden
The researchers found that autoplay increased the number of spins by about 3% and the total amount wagered by roughly 7–9%
even subtle design choices like autoplay can measurably increase how much players spend
When combined with tactics like near-miss animations and personalized promos
the result is a gambling environment that’s quiet
near-miss designs are a subtle yet powerful tool
These occur when a game outcome is tantalizingly close to a win
like two matching symbols on a slot machine with the third just off
this near-win scenario can trigger a psychological response akin to an actual win
encouraging players to continue playing in pursuit of a perceived imminent victory.
Another study published in Psychology of Addictive Behaviors found that near-misses increased players’ motivation to keep gambling
led to faster initiation of subsequent plays
These findings highlight how near-miss designs can manipulate players’ perceptions
making them believe they’re on the verge of a win
thereby prolonging gameplay and increasing spending
We already know that autoplay makes it easier to lose track of time
But there’s another layer: it can also reduce emotional friction
there’s a moment of reflection—a breath to consider your balance
What you’re left with is a stream of continuous bets that bypass the part of the brain wired for risk assessment
The less effort a user has to make to repeat an action
They remove barriers between you and the bet—no coin to insert
Online casinos leverage data analytics to tailor promotions and notifications to individual players
By analyzing a player’s gaming habits
casinos can craft personalized offers that are more likely to entice continued play
These promotions might include bonuses on favorite games
or reminders to play during preferred times.
This level of personalization enhances the gaming experience
it also raises concerns about the potential for increased gambling behavior
as these targeted promotions can exploit individual vulnerabilities and encourage prolonged play.
Some online casino games are designed to celebrate outcomes where the player wins less than their original bet
the game might still trigger celebratory sounds and visuals
giving the impression of success despite a net loss.
This tactic can distort a player’s perception of their actual performance
leading them to believe they’re winning more often than they are
The reinforcement from these “losses disguised as wins” can encourage continued play
as players chase the excitement of these perceived victories
potentially leading to increased gambling expenditure
These design elements exploit psychological principles like the illusion of control
where players believe they can influence outcomes
where individuals continue investing in a losing endeavor due to prior investments
Intermittent rewards—unpredictable payouts—are particularly effective
as they create a strong desire to continue the behavior in hopes of a reward
But that doesn’t stop players from believing otherwise
This is called the illusion of control—the belief that your choices affect outcomes in games that are
Choosing when to press “spin,” picking your lottery numbers
or stopping the slot machine manually can make you feel more in charge than you actually are
Studies from Harvard psychologist Ellen Langer dating back to the 1970s laid the foundation for this phenomenon
and newer research continues to confirm its impact in gambling contexts
and makes wins feel earned—even when they’re statistically no different from a computer roll
Slot machines and online games don’t reward consistently
They reward occasionally and unpredictably
and it’s one of the most powerful motivators of repeated behavior
this same pattern is what makes social media and notifications so addictive
A 2024 study published in Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences confirmed that intermittent rewards trigger stronger dopamine responses than predictable ones
especially because you never know when it’s coming
One of the more deceptive psychological traps is the sunk cost fallacy—the idea that you should keep investing in something because you’ve already spent time
this shows up as the urge to “win it back” or keep playing because you’re already “deep in it.”
This fallacy is particularly dangerous in high-frequency gambling environments
where hundreds of small decisions accumulate over time
According to a 2024 report by the National Council on Problem Gambling
64% of respondents who reported problematic gambling behavior cited “trying to recover losses” as their main reason for continuing to play
you’re not making decisions with the rational
and sounds to short-circuit logic and amplify emotion
Rapid betting cycles leave little room for reflection
and artificial “wins,” and it becomes easier to keep playing without stopping to assess whether you’re actually ahead or spiraling
It’s not about making smart bets—it’s about staying on the ride
leading to more impulsive decisions and prolonged play
If any of this feels uncomfortably familiar
it’s because these tactics are meant to feel seamless
The line between entertainment and manipulation can be thin—and invisible in the moment
these designs work because they’re built with human psychology in mind
Understanding how these tricks function doesn’t make you immune to them
but it does give you a fighting chance to recognize when the game isn’t just on the screen—it’s being played in your head
where’s the line between a well-designed game and a behavioral trap
That’s the uncomfortable question looming behind every flashing slot machine and autoplay spin
even—but brilliance without boundaries can become exploitation
that line is often crossed long before anyone realizes it
They’re engineered using the same behavioral cues that make apps addictive or supermarkets place candy at eye-level
Casinos are playing with something far more volatile than impulse purchases: the human desire for reward
Critics argue that what’s being sold here isn’t fun—it’s a false sense of agency
You’re not just playing a game; you’re being nudged
When design choices are built to capitalize on cognitive biases
like the sunk cost fallacy or loss aversion
The gambling industry often defends these tactics as immersive entertainment, and for many players, that may be true. But advocates for responsible gambling are pushing back
and transparency about how these systems work
the least a casino can do is level the psychological playing field
the ethics of casino design don’t hinge on whether something is technically allowed
Or to extract every possible dollar before someone finds the exit
Casino design isn’t just clever—it’s psychological architecture built to tilt the table before you even sit down
From glowing slots to autoplay loops and precision-engineered digital promos
both physical and online casinos rely on science
They’re deliberate mechanisms wired to keep you inside the system
Understanding how these mechanisms work—how near-misses fool your brain
how a fake win still feels like a win—can make the invisible visible
And while awareness doesn’t eliminate risk
it does arm you with perspective: a moment of pause in a world engineered for momentum
The industry calls it immersive entertainment
But as gambling technologies become more personalized
the question isn’t just whether we’re playing the game—it’s whether we’re the ones being played
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Star Entertainment will offload a vast events complex inside its flagship Sydney entertainment precinct as it works to avert financial collapse
told investors it had agreed to hand control of its events centre and other parts of its Pyrmont complex to Foundation Theatres for $60 million
Star has previously described the event centre as a $100 million venue
Read MoreCasinosThe Star Entertainment GroupSteve McCannLatest In Gaming & wageringFetching latest articles
The Market Recap newsletter is a wrap of the day’s trading. Get it each weekday afternoon
but the casino operator\\u2019s shares will remain suspended from trading this week as the board remains unable to assure themselves that the company is a going concern
\\u201CThis transaction is an important milestone for the company and contributes to providing a potential pathway towards financial viability,\\u201D chief executive Steve McCann said
Star received a $35 million cash payment on Friday after agreeing to sell its 50 per cent stake in Brisbane\\u2019s Queen\\u2019s Wharf casino to its partners
But Star only has a few weeks to secure the longer-term funding plans \\u2013 which it also unveiled late on Friday \\u2013 needed to keep itself afloat
Star confirmed that the latter is needed to ensure its long-term survival and hence allow Star\\u2019s board to sign off on its financial accounts and allow its shares to trade again
would provide The Star with sufficient liquidity to refinance all of the Group\\u2019s existing corporate debt and is not conditional on either the purchase of the existing senior debt at a discount to par or any government tax deferrals or waivers,\\u201D Star said
and the bridging facility from King Street Capital Management \\u2013 which charges 15 per cent interest rate \\u2013 was subject to numerous conditions
\\u201CThe conditions precedent to the Bridge Facility include
entering into an intercreditor agreement with The Star\\u2019s existing lenders
obtaining relevant probity approvals and regulatory consents for The Star to provide first ranking security over The Star Gold Coast (and associated assets),\\u201D Star said on Friday
The deal to sell its new Brisbane casino will mean its two partners pay a total of $53 million for Star\\u2019s share of the venue and it will also receive $5 million a month to run the casino
\\u201CThe QWB Project is a world-class entertainment and leisure precinct in the heart of Brisbane\\u2019s central business district
one of Australia\\u2019s fastest growing cities and the host of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games,\\u201D Far East said on Friday
The Brisbane deal with its joint-venture partners also gives Star more real estate exposure to its Gold Coast casino which McCann \\u2013 the former CEO of property giant Lend Lease \\u2013 is planning to exploit and help offset the risks in its gambling business
\\u201CWe are excited about our future in the Gold Coast
our full ownership of these hotels will enhance our integrated offering and provide an opportunity to improve the performance of the business,\\u201D he said
\\u201CThe company still faces various risks
resolving the various litigation and claims from historical issues and managing the business in a period of continuing lower revenue and negative cashflow,\\u201D he said on Friday
The Market Recap newsletter is a wrap of the day\\u2019s trading
Residents living in low-lying streets in Casino are closely watching river levels tonight after the SES issued a Prepare to Evacuate flood watch
The streets under threat include Lennox St
Residents have been advised to monitor the situation and be ready to evacuate if necessary
For anyone who can’t go to friends or family
there is an evacuation centre at Casino Showground
The Bureau of Meteorology advises that Richmond River at Casino Road Bridge is currently at 10.7m and rising above the minor flood level of 9.2m
Richmond River at this location could reach 11.7m early Sunday morning
View the full warnings here.
Summerland Way is closed between Reynolds Road and Bentley Road at Cedar Point impacting access between Kyogle and Casino.
Casino-Coraki Road is closed at the Tatham bridges because of flooding.
Richmond River at Coraki is currently at 5.2m and rising, above the moderate flood level of 5m.
The river may reach the major flood level of 5.70m tomorrow morning, Sunday March 9.
If you are unable to find accommodation, an evacuation centre has been set up at the Coraki Public School and the Evans Head RSL Club.
Here is a list of road closures in Richmond Valley.
Nandabah Street & Wyan Road, RAPPVILLE, water over Nandabah Bridge
Summerland Way, LEEVILLE, water over the road
Casino-Coraki Road, TATHAM, Closed at Deep Creek & Spring Gully Bridges
Spring Grove Road, SPRING GROVE, water over the road at Caniaba
Sextonville Road, WOODVIEW Water Over Knights Bridge
Schielers Road, CLOVASS, water over Lamonts Bridge
Mongogarie Road, LEEVILLE, water over the road
Broadheads Road, LEEVILLE, water over the road
Johnsons Road, YORKLEA, water over the road
Leeville Station Road, LEEVILLE, water over the road
Mcdonald’s Bridge Road, STRATHEDEN, water over Erichs Bridge
Old Tenterfield Road, KIPPENDUFF, water over the road
Camira Creek Road, MOUNT MARSH water over the road
Swan Bay-New Italy Road, NEW ITALY, water over the road
Reynolds Road, BACKMEDE, water over the road
Savilles Road, NORTH CASINO, water over the road
Old Dyraaba Road, DYRAABA, water over the road
Cook Street, BROADWATER, water over the road
Tomki-Tatham Road, TATHAM, water over the road
Casino-Coraki Road, CORAKI, water over the road
Summerland Way, CASINO near Reynolds Road, water over the road
Ellangowan Road, ELLANGOWAN, at the intersection of Coraki-Ellangowan Road, water over the road
Ellangowan Road, CASINO, at the intersection of Summerland Way, water over the road
Avenue Road, ELLANGOWAN, water over the road
Springville Road, WEST CORAKI, water over the road
Coraki-Ellangowan Road, ELLANGOWAN, whole road closed as multiple trees down
Elliotts Road GIBBERAGEE, road closed to avoid access to Bungawalbin Whiporie Road due to the water over road.
Naughtons Gap Road NAUGHTONS GAP, near Bentley Road, water over the road
Bungawalbin-Whiporie Road, BUNGAWALBIN water over the road
Short Street – CASINO – water over the road
Droneys Bridge Road, FAIRY HILL water over the bridge
Scotts Road, NORTH CASINO, water over the road
Broadwater Evans Head Road, BROADWATER
Naughtons Gap Road, NAUGHTONS GAP, near Rambaldinis Road
For updates on all traffic and road closures, visit livetraffic.com
Information in this report provided by SES, BOM and Richmond Valley Council.
Richmond Valley and Kyogle newsEmail: indynr.com@gmail.com
What's next for the embattled casino operator
The Star Entertainment Group Ltd (ASX: SGR) share price is enjoying a rare moment in the green on Monday
Shares in the embattled casino group hit an all-time low of 10 cents per share in intraday trading on Friday before closing the week at 11 cents
They have since been volatile in Monday's session
Of course today's gains pale in comparison to the stock's significant losses over the longer term
Investors have punished the casino's share price for the last several years now
with recent price action bringing the stock to around its lowest levels on record
They are down by around 74% this past year
collapsing by more than 30% in the past week alone
The Star share price has also sunk by around 96% over the past five years
The stock is now holding on for dear life as Star executives scramble to keep the company afloat and at least some of shareholders' wealth in situ
the casino giant isn't in the best financial shape right now
Star's cash burn has reached alarming levels
Just last week, the company reported spending $107 million maintaining its current operations in the three months to December 2024
this is more than half of the $200 million lifeline supplied by creditors last year
locked in at a 13.5% per annum interest rate
Star further advised it expects to be sitting on a cash balance of just $79 million when it reports its half-year results next month
down from $149 million at the end of September 2024
and hefty operational costs are the primary culprits behind this dire situation
Some analysts now suggest a 50% probability of Star entering administration
which could wipe out holders of Star Casino shares completely
Investors didn't just wake up one day and decide to sell their Star Casino shares
The troubles stem from a combination of internal and external challenges, most notably the findings of The Bell Two report in August last year
which found Star "unsuitable to hold a Casino licence because of serious regulatory failures"
Star's license to operate The Star Gold Coast was called into question
The Queensland Government has deferred the final decision on this until June this year
Meanwhile, the company has provisioned $150 million for potential fines from AUSTRAC following breaches of anti-money laundering laws
Hopes for government intervention appear slim
Both the New South Wales and Queensland Governments have ruled out direct financial support
Star is also racing to secure additional funds to maintain its business as a going concern
This includes a $100 million lifeline from its bank
and another $150 million debt facility through broker UBS
According to separate reporting from The Aus, Star also needs to secure another $1.6 billion to refinance its Queen's Wharf facility in Brisbane
But with declining financials, it is becoming difficult for Star to meet the conditions to unlock any of these potential funds
Star Casino shares face an uphill battle as the company struggles with regulatory fines
The casino still has to secure multiple tranches of financing to safeguard its future as an operating business
it's a waiting game to see if Star can pull off a financial miracle
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a potential newcomer to the Australian gaming industry has taken a look at its casinos
An American casino operator controlled by a New York hedge fund has joined the opportunists sniffing around embattled Star Entertainment Group
which is on its last legs and desperately seeking a capital injection to avoid administration
The Australian Financial Review can reveal Bally’s Corporation
which has 19 casinos across 11 American states
sent representatives to Australia to meet Star and visit its casinos last week
and has also met key Star shareholders and lenders
The car retrieved from the Richmond River following a crash that killed two men in their 20s. (ABC News)
Five people have been killed in fatal crashes across NSW in the past 24 hours.
Two men died when their car crashed into a river in Northern NSW, a man died following a collision in the Central West, and two people have died in a crash in the Blue Mountains.
Police are investigating all three crashes.
Link copiedShareShare articleFive people have died in three separate fatal crashes in a horror 24 hours on New South Wales roads, including two men who died when their car plunged into a river in northern NSW.
The car left the road at Droney Bridge Road at Fairy Hill, north of Casino, at around 10 o'clock last night and plunged into the Richmond River.
The car was carrying three occupants, two males and a female.
A multi-agency operation involving Police Rescue and the State Emergency Service was launched to retrieve the car.
The bodies of the two men, believed to be aged in their 20s, were inside the vehicle.
One woman managed to escape from the car, while two men were killed in the crash. (ABC News)
A 22-year-old female passenger was able to escape from the car and avoided injury.
NSW Police Acting Superintendent Tom Barnes said the woman walked two kilometres to ask a neighbour for help.
"She was obviously very traumatised by what has taken place," he said.
John Miller lives up the road from where the incident occurred.
"There was a lot of traffic, flashing lights, and cars going past," he said.
John Miller says Droney Bridge Road is a precarious river crossing. (ABC North Coast: Hannah Ross)
Mr Miller said there was a sharp turn before the bridge that gave drivers "no room for error".
"There are no guardrails or anything to stop you going over the bridge," he said.
A report will be prepared for the coroner.
Police have cordoned off the bridge and part of the road as they investigate the cause of the crash.
They are asking for any nearby residents with CCTV footage of the car to come forward.
Roads around the scene were cordoned off by police. (ABC North Coast: Elloise Farrow-Smith)
Police are also investigating a two-vehicle crash in Ilford in the Central West early this morning.
Paramedics responded to the crash around 6:30am and treated two men and two women.
An unidentified man was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police investigating whether speed or drugs were involved in the crash.
"We understand the vehicle with the deceased driver crossed onto the wrong side of the road."
The two male occupants of a sedan, a 60-year-old driver and 62-year-old passenger, died following a crash with an SUV on the Western Highway in Linden in the Blue Mountains.
It is believed the sedan crossed onto the wrong side of the road prior to the crash.
The 27-year-old male driver of the SUV and a 59-year-old female passenger were treated for minor injuries before they were taken to Westmead Hospital.
Superintendnat Barnes said the latest fatalities brought the road toll in the state to 73 deaths this year.
"Every one of those people has a family and a story," he said.
"Last year it was sitting at 74 — in either case, that is not good enough and we as a community need to do more.
Why Trump wants to reopen an infamous US prison — and whether it's possibleTopic:Explainer
International Game Technology has signed a multi-year agreement with Red Earth Casino to replace its current casino management system with IGT’s ADVANTAGE™ system.
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The findings could have a significant impact on a sale
James HallQueensland correspondentMar 28, 2025 – 6.43pmSaveLog in or Subscribe to save articleShareCopy link
it looked like a political free kick that was impossible to ignore: hammer Queensland’s Labor government at every opportunity for trying to keep secret a report into possible links between Chinese criminals and Brisbane’s marquee casino
Leading up to last October’s state election
the Liberal-National Party demanded the Miles government release the probity report it had commissioned to investigate links between Chow Tai Fook
a part owner of Brisbane’s Queen’s Wharf casino