Caesars Entertainment License Holders Accountable for Regulatory Failings

If 2020 has showcased anything in the UK gambling realms, it is that the Gambling Commission (UKGC) is more resolute than ever in flexing its regulatory muscle, especially when dealing with the enforcement of responsible gambling protocols.  

Caesars Entertainment witnessed this vigour first-hand in April last year when they received a £13 million fine and a host of licensing sanctions. 

These tough actions follow a host of failures by Personal Management Licence (PML) holders employed by the casino group. These individuals were remiss to implement strict responsible gambling protocols for VIP players in several key cases, leading to huge losses by a series of gamblers across the operator’s UK casinos. There is also evidence that key staff members failed to implement anti-money laundering protocols on various high-risk players. 

The regulator takes its licencing procedures seriously and firmly believes that individuals with the power to make key decisions at casinos should act in the best interest of their clients. The Commission’s Executive Director, Richard Watson said: 

“All personal licence holders should be aware that they will be held accountable, where appropriate, for the regulatory failings within the operators they manage.” 

This seemingly tougher enforcement of gambling regulation in Britain comes off the back of accusations that the Gambling Commission has been too weak in its efforts to protect the vulnerable from problem gambling.  

One report even stated that the UKGC was being ‘’outmuscled by the gambling industry’’. This fine was the second issued to a major casino brand in the first quarter of last year – a clear statement that the Commission was out to prove its worth. 

 Losses All-Around 

Upon closer investigation across the group’s eleven casinos in Britain, it was found that Caesars was guilty of “systematic failings’’ in its treatment of its VIP customers. These players are typically high rollers and are an easy target for special bonuses and loyalty perks. It was clear that the licence holders put caution to the wind for the sake of making profits, allowing several high rolling players to lose hundreds of thousands of pounds each.  

In one case, a player who has self-excluded from gambling could resume gambling prematurely, resulting in massive personal losses of around £240,000 on their part. There are also cases where the casino was negligent in checking the players’ source of funds, which forms part of the anti-money laundering checklist. 

The results of the findings have led to warnings, permit revocation, and licence reviews for several key staff members and managers. Three senior managers have surrendered their licences and may not continue to work in the industry.  

 Tightening the Screws 

The Gambling Commission is increasing its scrutiny of the treatment of VIP customers across the nation which is a positive sign for the playing public and is sure to be a saving grace for the industry in the UK.  

The UKGc won’t stand by idly and allow those whom it licenses to exploit the public any longer. Neil McArthur went on to say: 

“We are absolutely clear about our expectations of operators — whatever type of gambling they offer they must know their customers. They must interact with them and check what they can afford to gamble with — stepping in when they see signs of harm.” 

Caesars Entertainment Group has acknowledged its shortcomings and the penalties that come with them. As a result, the operator has made improvements to its compliance protocols and policies to which all personal license holders must strictly comply.