Canada
AGA Commends Legislation to Eliminate Unnecessary Taxes on Legal Sportsbook Operators, Provide Needed COVID-19 Relief
American Gaming Association (AGA) President and CEO Bill Miller released the following statement on bipartisan legislation Reps. Dina Titus (NV-01) and Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14) introduced today to repeal the federal excise and head taxes:
“The federal excise and head taxes levied on legal U.S. sportsbooks generate little meaningful revenue for the government. Instead, they place legitimate businesses at a significant competitive disadvantage against illicit gambling operations which skirt taxes and licensing fees. Though originally enacted in the 1950’s as a tool to curb illegal gambling, these antiquated federal taxes now give illegal operators a leg up.
“To absorb the unnecessary burden of these taxes, legal sportsbooks are forced to offer worse odds and payouts or reduce investment in promoting legal betting channels to the public. Furthermore, the head tax serves as an impediment to hiring at a time when providing jobs is critical.
“I’m grateful to the Congressional Gaming Caucus’ Co-Chairs Reps. Titus and Reschenthaler for introducing this legislation today to provide regulated operators with meaningful relief as they recover from the COVID-19 sports shutdown. Eliminating these taxes is a long overdue step to enable a legal, regulated environment for sports betting that will better protect customers and generate much-needed revenue for state and local economies.”
Background
- The Internal Revenue Code requires regulated sports betting operators to pay a 0.25% federal excise tax on all wagers, in addition to a $50 annual tax (“head tax”) for every employee engaged in receiving bets.
- These taxes accounted for less than $33 million in federal tax dollars in 2019.
- Sportsbooks operate with a very low margin even in the lowest-taxed jurisdictions. For example, Nevada sportsbooks’ revenue is typically 5 percent of the total amount wagered, before accounting for taxes and operator expenses.
- AGA research released Tuesday found that consumers want to wager legally but are still confused about which options are safe and regulated. Educating consumers about their legal options is critical to bringing bettors into the legal, regulated market.
- Miller encouraged Congress to repeal the excise tax in his testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday.
Powered by WPeMatico
BetConstruct
BetConstruct Becomes the First iGaming Company to Offer Both B2B and B2C Licenses in Canada through Affiliate Entity
Â
BetConstruct, a global pioneer in iGaming and sports betting solutions, has announced a significant milestone in the gaming industry. Through its affiliate entity, BetConstruct has become the first iGaming company authorized to facilitate the issuance of both Business-to-Business (B2B) and Business-to-Consumer (B2C) licenses. This remarkable achievement was made possible by obtaining a direct license authorization from the Tobique First Nation in Canada.
The Tobique First Nation, renowned for its innovative and forward-thinking regulatory approach, has entrusted BetConstructâs affiliate entity with the authority to oversee applications and facilitate the issuance of licenses from its jurisdiction. This partnership underscores shared values of innovation, transparency, and a commitment to responsible gaming practices.
This historic development places BetConstruct at the forefront of the Canadian iGaming market, redefining the opportunities available to gaming operators. By leveraging its affiliate entityâs licensing capabilities, BetConstruct empowers businesses to navigate a streamlined and transparent regulatory environment, unlocking new opportunities for growth and innovation.
âAt BetConstruct, weâve always strived to push the boundaries of whatâs possible in iGaming. This landmark achievement with the Tobique First Nation reflects our unwavering dedication to creating opportunities for our partners while upholding the highest standards of responsibility and integrity in gaming,â said Vigen Badalyan, Co-Founder of BetConstruct.
The issuance of dual licenses under the watchful eye of BetConstructâs affiliate not only highlights BetConstructâs commitment to supporting its partners but also reinforces the companyâs role as a trusted leader in the global iGaming landscape.
This milestone signals a new era for regulated iGaming, as BetConstruct takes bold steps to establish a robust ecosystem for operators and consumers alike. With its direct license authorization from the Tobique First Nation, BetConstruct is setting a new standard for innovation, consumer protection, and sustainable growth in Canada and beyond.
The post BetConstruct Becomes the First iGaming Company to Offer Both B2B and B2C Licenses in Canada through Affiliate Entity appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
Canada
Great Canadian Entertainment and Petroglyph Development Group Announce Closing of the Acquisition of Casino Nanaimo and Elements Casino Victoria
Â
Great Canadian Entertainment and Petroglyph Development Group Ltd. announced that PDG has closed the previously announced acquisitions of Casino Nanaimo and Elements Casino Victoria from Great Canadian, in historic transactions for both parties. PDG is a wholly owned corporation of Snuneymuxw First Nation (the âNationâ) and is dedicated to realizing the economic potential of the Nation.
The transactions, originally announced on June 24, 2024, for Casino Nanaimo and September 10, 2024, for Elements Casino Victoria, have received all required approvals from the regulatory authorities.
âWe are thrilled to have completed these transactions. An incredible amount of work has been undertaken by our corporate team, our on-site teams at both properties, and PDG to achieve this successful closing. I am grateful for their efforts, as well as everyone at the B.C. Lottery Corporation and the Gaming Policy Enforcement Branch, who were thoughtful, diligent, and thorough in facilitating these closings,â said Matt Anfinson, Chief Executive Officer of Great Canadian.
âWe look forward to working closely with PDG during the transition period to support the continued successful operation of Casino Nanaimo and Elements Casino Victoria,â Anfinson added.
âWe celebrate the closing of our two casino acquisitions and our continued progress toward building a strong Snuneymuxw economy. For decades, Snuneymuxw leadership has worked tirelessly toward this moment, recognizing the connection between a strong economy, self-determination, and the foundation of nationhood. Today, we honour the achievements of those who came before us by securing businesses that will strengthen our Nation for generations to come. Thank you to the PDG and Great Canadian teams for your exceptional work. We look forward to a rewarding partnership with the B.C. Lottery Corporation, driving economic growth for the Nation and Province,â said Chief Mike Wyse.
Erralyn Joseph, President of PDG, said: âThis measured acquisition marks an important milestone for PDG as we continue growing a corporate enterprise that reinvests directly into the prosperity of our Nation. With a strong operating plan focused on risk mitigation and yielding sizable returns, PDG continues to generate sustainable wealth for Snuneymuxw. With every step we are realizing our socio-economic potential and influence at a local, national, and global level. On behalf of the Board of Directors, we are pleased to share this news and remain committed to advancing economic growth in support of all residents connected to Snuneymuxw territory.â
âAcquiring these assets marks a pivotal shift for Snuneymuxw and Vancouver Island. This transition will fuel the Islandâs economy, strengthening the Snuneymuxw Nation and ensuring the benefits stay local,â said Ian Simpson, Chief Executive Officer of PDG.
The post Great Canadian Entertainment and Petroglyph Development Group Announce Closing of the Acquisition of Casino Nanaimo and Elements Casino Victoria appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
Canada
Ottawa Black Bears Announce Partnership Deal with PowerPlay
Â
The Ottawa Black Bears announced an extensive partnership agreement with PowerPlay Online Sportsbook and Casino that will see the companyâs logo featured on the clubâs home and away jerseys.
In addition to the jersey partnership, PowerPlay will also have branding elements inside the goal crease, behind the bench, on the LED display ring, and along the rinkboards for Black Bears home games at Canadian Tire Centre. As part of the deal, PowerPlay also becomes the exclusive sportsbook and online casino partner for the Ottawa Black Bears.
âWe are thrilled to have PowerPlay on board for our inaugural season with such a comprehensive partnership agreement. Their investment with the Black Bears represents a foundational agreement for our lacrosse club. And weâre proud to wear their logo alongside ours as we launch our franchise,â said Chelsea McDermott, Vice President of Business Operations for the Ottawa Black Bears.
âWe are excited to bring PowerPlayâs bold, community-driven spirit to Ottawa-Gatineau, partnering with the Black Bears as they establish themselves as a force in lacrosse. This partnership celebrates a sport deeply tied to Canadaâs heritage and competitive energy. Together, weâll ignite passion, energize fans, and deliver excitement all season long,â said Thomas Vermeulen, Marketing Director for PowerPlay.
The post Ottawa Black Bears Announce Partnership Deal with PowerPlay appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
-
Australia6 days ago
VGCCC: Bookmaker Fined for Customer Safety Breaches
-
Latest News7 days ago
ELA Games Unveils Mythical New Game, Cash of Egypt
-
Australia6 days ago
Michael Fitzsimons Joins Tabcorp as Chief Wagering Officer
-
Latest News6 days ago
Week 3/2025 slot games releases
-
Latest News7 days ago
Games Global secures exclusive contract with Playbook Fusion to bring Playbook Football⢠to operator partners
-
Brazil6 days ago
INCENTIVE GAMES RECEIVES FULL PAY-TO-PLAY GAMING CERTIFICATION IN BRAZIL
-
Industry News6 days ago
Amusnet Releases Showtime Roulette 500x
-
Latest News6 days ago
Meet GalĂĄcticos Legends Luis Figo, Iker Casillas, Michael Owen, and Michel Salgado at Digitain Stand at ICE 2025