Inside Asian Gaming

IAG FEB 2021年2月 亞博匯 87 IAG: With an eye on Macau in particular, how open-minded are regulators across Asia about the introduction of new digital technologies? MdME: We are seeing developments in regulators’ outlook on new technologies, accelerated by the situation in the past year. For instance, the Nevada Gaming Control Board recently approved a cashless wagering module which may enable contactless, more efficient transactions. At the same time, PAGCOR allowed land-based casinos in Manila’s Entertainment City to offer online gaming to domestic players, which was something unimaginable no more than one year ago. By virtue of their role, and in some cases, scarcity of resources, Asian regulators typically take a more conservative approach to technology. Sometimes, it is a matter of educating and bringing awareness of the benefits that these new digital tools and systems can bring, to gain regulatory support. We are at a very interesting intersection where the same technology could, at the same time, be an enabler for business as well as a more effective way to achieve public policy goals. Think of cashless payment: it enhances customer experience, and it may also be used to promote responsible gaming by limiting spend. As these technologies become more reliable and may be tested to regulators ’ satisfaction, we believe barriers will start being removed. Our views are somewhat echoed by recent statements of the DICJ’s director, who declared that the Macau gaming regulator will make further use of technology in its own operations in order to increase its efficiency. IAG: MdME has recently announced the launch of a digital transformation team, to be led by Victoria. What prompted this move and why now? MdME: Our aim is to help our IR clients convert these digital opportunities into actionable solutions 特寫