The New Zealand Department of Internal Affairs has reported that a settlement has been reached in the civil proceedings against Christchurch Casinos Limited for alleged breaches of its obligations under the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism Act 2009.

As part of the settlement, Christchurch Casino has admitted all seven causes of action in DIA’s amended statement of claim and has agreed to join DIA in recommending that the High Court impose a penalty of $5.06m on Christchurch Casino.

Between May 2023 and September 2024, DIA conducted an investigation into Christchurch Casino’s AML/CFT compliance, and found that it had breached a number of its obligations under the Act.

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DIA found that Christchurch Casino had failed to establish, implement and maintain a compliant AML/CFT compliance programme, adequately monitor accounts, conduct compliant enhanced customer due diligence, terminate existing business relationships when required and keep records as required by the Act. These failures spanned between December 2018 and December 2023.

“This agreement is a significant and positive outcome. It’s encouraging to achieve our intended result without the time and expense of court proceedings” said Serge Sablyak, Director of AML/CFT Group.

“While the regulatory breaches were serious, we acknowledge Christchurch Casino’s decision to admit to the breaches and take responsibility for what were substantial failings.”

“We’re proud that our work has strengthened the integrity of New Zealand’s financial system and has helped build public confidence in the prevention of money laundering and terrorism financing.”

DIA and Christchurch Casino have recommended to the High Court that the matter now proceed to a penalty hearing for the Court to determine the appropriate penalty to be imposed on Christchurch Casino.

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Christchurch Casino is not alleged to have been directly involved in money laundering or the financing of terrorism.

Donaco International Limited (DNA), an ASX-listed company focused on leisure, entertainment and associated technology, announced that its shareholders have voted in favour of the proposed acquisition of 100% of the company’s shares by On Nut Road Limited (ONR) via a scheme of arrangement. Donaco International operates casino businesses in Southeast Asia.

The resolution to approve the Scheme was passed with significant support, with 98.11% of votes cast by Donaco shareholders in favour. Additionally, 77.50% of Donaco shareholders present and voting, either in person or by proxy, attorney, or corporate representative, also voted in favour of the Scheme. The voting results reflect strong shareholder backing for the proposed acquisition.

The Scheme remains subject to the approval of the Supreme Court of New South Wales at a hearing scheduled for Thursday, 7 August 2025. The Second Court Hearing will only occur if all of the remaining conditions precedent to the Scheme have been satisfied or waived. If the court approves the Scheme and all conditions are met, Donaco intends to lodge a copy of the court orders with ASIC on Friday, 8 August 2025, upon which the Scheme will become effective and DNA shares will be suspended from trading on the ASX. Pending final approvals, the implementation of the Scheme is expected to occur on Tuesday, 19 August 2025.

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OPAP announced the acquisition of the remaining 15.51% stake in Stoiximan (the Company) for a consideration of €191.6 million on a cash free debt free basis, plus an adjustment for net cash as of the closing date, increasing its ownership in the Company to 100% (full acquisition).

The investment further strengthens OPAP’s leading position in Greece and Cyprus, while also intensifying its strategic focus on online sports betting and iGaming segments.

OPAP initially invested in Stoiximan in 2018, prompted by its high-growth potential, and gradually increased its stake through two subsequent transactions in 2020. Today, Stoiximan holds an undisputed leadership position in the fast-growing online market, validating OPAP’s strategic investment over the years.

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Stoiximan will continue to be supported by Kaizen Gaming with cutting-edge technology and a differentiated product offering, ensuring a seamless user experience, top-notch reliability and innovation.

Completion is anticipated in the third quarter of 2025, subject to approval from the Cypriot regulatory authorities.

OPAP and Stoiximan will continue to operate as separate businesses under their distinct licenses, brands and management teams.

Jan Karas, Chairman & CEO of OPAP, said: “The investment in Stoiximan has greatly contributed to solidifying OPAP’s position in the Greek and Cypriot online markets. I am therefore very pleased with the recent transaction, which further expands our footprint in the fast-growing online market. Looking forward, we are confident that our dual brand strategy will remain effective and both our brands, Stoiximan and Pamestoixima.gr, will sustain their growth momentum.”

Nikos Fligos, CEO of Stoiximan, said: “This milestone marks a new chapter in Stoiximan’s journey. With the dedication and passion of our 300-strong team, who are the driving force behind our market leadership, we remain fully committed to delivering outstanding experiences to our customers, shaping the future of online gaming in Greece and Cyprus.”

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