New York

New York City is set to welcome three new casino developments as U.S. gambling activity accelerates and states increasingly embrace gaming as a source of tax revenue and economic growth. The planned projects reflect shifting public attitudes toward gambling, driven by the normalization of sports betting and digital wagering. For New York, the expansion represents a strategic effort to capture billions in gaming spend that has historically flowed to neighboring states. Supporters cite job creation and public revenue, while critics warn of social costs.

New York has formally outlawed online sweepstakes-style casino games, marking a decisive escalation in the state’s campaign against unregulated digital gambling. The new law, signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul, follows swift legislative action and sustained pressure from state regulators who argued that sweepstakes casinos operate in violation of the state constitution. Backed by unanimous votes in both legislative chambers, the ban reflects broader concerns about consumer protection, legal clarity, and market integrity.

New York is entering a new era of casino development shaped by urban revitalisation strategies, shifting consumer behaviour, and the rapid rise of digital gaming platforms. As the state’s gaming market evolves, operators are focusing on modernisation, integrated entertainment hubs, and upgraded digital capabilities to meet changing expectations. Regulators are simultaneously strengthening oversight to ensure responsible gambling and maintain market integrity.

New York’s casino landscape is preparing for a major transformation as the state moves closer to awarding three downstate licenses—an initiative expected to unlock billions in investment and reshape the region’s entertainment economy. Developers, global gaming companies, and local stakeholders are aggressively positioning themselves with proposals that promise employment, tourism growth, and neighborhood revitalization.

New York City is on the cusp of a major gambling expansion, with several casino proposals competing for approval as the state prepares to issue coveted downstate licenses. While the initiative is framed as an economic accelerator promising billions in revenue, thousands of jobs, and revitalized neighborhoods, experts warn of an escalating national gambling surge that could deepen social risks.

Steve Cohen, owner of the New York Mets, has secured preliminary approval alongside Hard Rock International to build a massive casino and entertainment complex adjacent to Citi Field in Queens, under the project name Metropolitan Park. The proposed $8.1 billion development — one of three downstate casino licenses granted this week — promises a Hard Rock hotel, casino, live-entertainment venue, dining, retail, public green space, and substantial community investments.

Billionaire entrepreneur Lim Kok Thay has announced an ambitious Rs. 45,870 crore (USD 5.5 billion) investment plan to expand his casino operations in New York after securing a new gaming license. The development marks one of the largest capital commitments in the state’s entertainment sector, signaling the company’s intent to cement its position in a rapidly evolving U.S. gaming market. The expansion aims to modernize facilities, enhance hospitality offerings, and strengthen the region’s economic footprint through job creation and increased tourism.

In a landmark decision, New York regulators have approved a downstate casino licence for an $8.1 billion entertainment complex spearheaded by Steve Cohen near Citi Field in Queens. The project, known as Metropolitan Park, promises to transform 50 acres of underused parking lots into a mixed-use destination featuring a casino, hotel, live-event venue, dining, retail, green space and infrastructure upgrades. Backed by robust economic projections—including tens of thousands of jobs and extensive community investments—the plan could reshape local development dynamics.

Genting Malaysia recorded a solid revenue surge in the third quarter, supported by stronger gaming activity, sustained visitor recovery and renewed momentum across its domestic and international operations. The positive performance arrives at a pivotal time for the group, which is awaiting developments on New York’s commercial casino licensing process—a milestone that could significantly elevate its strategic position in the U.S. market.

New York’s long-awaited casino licensing process has entered a critical phase as a state evaluation board prepares to tour three potential casino locations across New York City. The inspections mark a significant step in a competitive bidding process that has drawn interest from major developers, global gaming corporations, and local stakeholders seeking to reshape the city’s entertainment economy. The tours are expected to help state officials assess feasibility, infrastructure readiness, economic impact, and community considerations tied to each proposal.