Following a recent review, the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) concluded that Entain and Accel Entertainment are deserving of full licenses in Nevada. In spite of prior compliance-related issues that placed both businesses under rigorous examination, their persistent compliance efforts have earned them the NVGC’s endorsement for full licensing. These recommendations follow an exhaustive analysis by the gaming authority, the results of which were made public in a report by CDC Gaming.
The next crucial step for Entain and Accel Entertainment is to appear before the Nevada Gaming Commission on May 16. During this proceeding, the two companies will seek to secure their full licenses, a testament to their adherence to Nevada’s tightly regulated gambling industry’s standards and practices.
Erica Okerberg, who represented Entain during the most recent NGCB hearing, highlighted the company’s “exemplary” efforts towards compliance. She detailed the ongoing enhancements to their compliance program, aiming at ensuring strict observance of regulatory rules on a state-by-state basis. She also acknowledged Entain’s leadership, praising their integrity, credibility, and relevant qualifications as essential attributes in overseeing the company’s rule-abiding operations.
Emphasizing Compliance: Entain’s Operations Majorly in Regulated Markets
Back in 2019, under its former banner of GVC Holdings, Entain faced regulatory scrutiny in Nevada for offering services in unmanaged markets. Nonetheless, things have significantly changed since then, as Entain has pulled out of numerous unregulated markets. As a case in point, the company declared it had withdrawn from over 140 unregulated markets at the start of this year.
Barry Gibson, the outgoing chairman of Entain, spoke during the latest NGCB hearing. He highlighted Entain’s transition to operations predominantly in regulated markets, with 96% of the business conducted within these jurisdictions. He concluded, “The company took a few wrong turns before rebranding as Entain, but it has transformed considerably since then.”
Accel’s Intensified Commitment to Compliance
Like Entain, Accel has shown strong dedication to ensuring compliance with existing regulations. The company had to pay a substantial fine set by the Illinois Gaming Control Board in the past. But according to Okerberg, Accel has managed to maintain a steady focus on compliance ever since.
Andrew Rubenstein, president and CEO of Accel, stated that over the past two years, the company has “doubled down” on its compliance efforts. At the recent NGCB meeting, he also discussed several policies introduced within the company, including a whistleblower hotline and an emphasis on the “see something, say something” principle.
