Recent betting scandals in Las Vegas may impact the chances of Wynn Resorts in Hudson Yards and Resorts World at Aqueduct in Queens to obtain New York City’s coveted casino licenses, according to the head of the New York State Gaming Commission, Brian O’Dwyer. Wynn Resorts recently settled a federal probe for $130 million involving unauthorized foreign money transfers to its Wynn Las Vegas casino. The Department of Justice found that the casino was using foreign bank accounts to funnel money to China and other countries. Resorts World Las Vegas, owned by the Genting Group, allegedly violated anti-laundering laws by doing business with illegal bookmakers. The presence of illegal bookies, including one involved with MLB player Shohei Ohtani’s ex-interpreter, raised concerns about financial gain over compliance.
Wynn Resorts and Resorts World New York City have sought to distance themselves from the scandals. Although O’Dwyer expressed concerns about the integrity of the potential license holders, he did not completely disqualify them. The state gaming commission is considering awarding up to three casino licenses in the NYC region by 2025, with competitors like Las Vegas Sands and Steve Cohen’s proposed casino project also in the running. The commission aims to ensure that licensees demonstrate integrity and compliance with gaming rules, emphasizing that there are no favorites in the selection process. The issues raised by O’Dwyer highlight the importance of maintaining transparency and integrity in the casino licensing process to ensure the highest standards are met.
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