India has recently moved to formalize its prohibition of online money-gambling via the draft rules under the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming (PROG) Act, 2025, published by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). The draft defines “online money games” as those involving user deposits, stakes or wagers in expectation of monetary return, and bars both offering and advertising such platforms. To enforce this, violations would be non-bailable offences, authorized officers would have powers for warrantless searches, and companies can face stringent penalties both criminal and financial.
The Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) in Singapore is reportedly delving into baccarat side-bet data to assess whether these additional bet types could be exploited for illicit financial activity. According to recent media coverage, regulators are interested in how granular side-bet wagering patterns might reveal money laundering, fraud, or other criminal behavior.
The Philippines’ Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) has secured a new freeze order in connection with a sweeping scandal involving alleged misappropriation linked to casino operations, bringing the total value of immobilized assets to almost USD 70 million. This latest move underscores intensifying efforts by authorities to clamp down on illicit flows tied to gaming and infrastructure irregularities.
Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) has announced a major infrastructure initiative — Wynn Boulevard — designed to provide a direct road connection between the upcoming Wynn Al Marjan Island integrated resort and the UAE’s broader highway network, specifically tying into the E311 and E611 routes that link Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the Northern Emirates. The project was unveiled in tandem with Marjan’s launch of its “Marjan Beach” master development, and contracts worth over AED 1 billion (≈ USD 272 million) have already been committed to the effort.
The government of Timor-Leste (East Timor) has approved a Council of Ministers resolution that revokes all existing licences for online gambling and betting, halts current licensing procedures, and prohibits the issuance of any new licences. The resolution, introduced by Minister Agio Pereira, cites concerns over national security, social stability, economic integrity, and the country’s international reputation as key justifications for the sweeping regulatory action.
Author: Janice Chew • Monday, 06/10/2025
