Daily Asia Gaming eBrief: Thailand removes $1.5M deposit req for locals in casino bill

Good morning. Adapt and survive. That’s been Thailand’s approach as it tries to push through its new casino bill, now taking a practical approach by eliminating a requirement for local punters to show $1.5 million in deposits, something only a fraction of nationals can do. But it’s not all rosy, as legalized online gaming in the country appears to be off the table. And in the Philippines, first they came for the POGOs and now sights are set on PIGOs, as the Senate President called for a review of the inland sector. Meanwhile, in Australia, an intense review of Queensland’s racing industry is underway, aiming to provide a roadmap forward.

What you need to know

• Thailand removing the $1.5M deposit requirement in the casino bill, cuts the possibility of legalized online gambling.
• Philippines Senate President calls for a thorough review of the PIGO sector amid concerns over its social impact.
• A landmark review of Queensland’s racing industry has been initiated, authorities invite opinions from industry stakeholders on the sector’s future.

On the radar

• The Star trading halted again, company running out of cash, lacking offers.
• Melco Int’l Development commences arbitration against Chinese JV partner.
• Belle Corp.: no plans to acquire Melco’s interest in COD Manila.
• Macau gaming operator accused of unjustified layoffs.
• Century Ent. breaches listing rules, dealing in securities during black-out period.
• UU Wallet unveils Digital Finance Solutions at ASEAN Gaming Summit 2025.

AGB Intelligence

THAILAND

Casino bill drops $1.5M deposit requirement for locals

Thailand’s new casino bill will no longer have a requirement that local punters must show proof of $1.5 million in deposits, assuaging concerns that most Thai nationals would be effectively unable to gamble at local casinos once opened. The move was instead traded for proof of paid tax returns for the past three years. However, other changes took an axe to hopes that online gaming could be legalized, effectively restricting legalized gaming to the casino floor.

Industry Updates

• ZITRO set to showcase CONCEPT cabinet line at IGA 2025.
• Pragmatic Play boosts gamification suite with Free Chips promo tool.
• Games Global expands aggregation platform with 3 Oaks Gaming titles.

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