Skip to main content

Star Entertainment Junket Operators Under Scrutiny

Recently updated on August 11th, 2019

Recent inspections into Star Entertainment junket operators has prompted the CEO to speak out. According to recent reports, Star Entertainment’s junket operators have become the subject of public inquiry. Since Crown Resorts’ own troubles with authorities overseas, the sector has been extremely sensitive to legal backlash. In 2017, Star Entertainment’s rival, Crown Resorts, was involved in legal battles with Chinese authorities.

As later revealed, the Australian company had been advertising illegally to Chinese high rollers. At least 17 employees were charged with “gambling crimes” and served varying prison stints. Three major players in the junket operations were held for up to 18 months. These ramifications also impacted other operators in Australia and legal frameworks were re-examined. However, there are still other concerns for the high roller casino sector. Crown Resorts’ scandal has had a negative impact on all operators.

Star Entertainment Junket Operators Investigation

Star Entertainment Junket Operators ‘Working Legally’ says CEO

Therefore, casino operators like Star Entertainment have outsourced monitoring services to keep above board. Currently, financial intelligence agency, the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC), is monitoring their practices. According to Matt Bekier, Chief Executive Officer of Star Entertainment, their practices are “in correspondence with the existing regulatory framework”. Mr Bekier also claimed that he couldn’t comment on Crown Resorts.

Still, Crown Resorts’ documents, internal emails, and company sources are being investigated. These enquiries have shown that some junket operators (possibly Star Entertainment) are associated with organised crime. These allegations include a possibility of money laundering, which is illegal in Australia.

VIP Customers Discouraged from Money Laundering

Mr Bekier has issued further statements to explain how regulations are affecting VIP players and junket operators. In recent months, measures to discourage money laundering through junket operations were instituted. Star Entertainment is complying, but are suffering the loss of customers. Currently, high rollers need a visa to enter Australia, which discourages most organised crime syndicates.

Mainly, Star Entertainment junket operators encourage players to declare where their money comes from. In addition, visas are checked for authenticity. Their business strategy also aims to attract wealthy tourists to gamble once on a trip, instead of focusing on gambling only.

For more stories like this, keep visiting New Zealand Casinos!



Related Posts

LeoVegas Launches GoGoCasino Targeting Sweden

LeoVegas introduces GoGoCasino

Recently updated on March 26th, 2019LeoVegas has introduced GoGoCasino to go live in Sweden. The brand was developed using LeoVegas’ existing resources. The plan for the brand is to increase efficiency by using the company’s existing resources. GoGoCasino features top-notch user friendliness design that is alluring and has the best functions. It also has an […]

World Cup Group Matches Surprise Bookies

Group Matches stun World Cup Bettors – NZ Betting News

Recently updated on June 19th, 2018As usual, the FIFA World Cup is stunning bookies and gamblers across the globe. With favourites slightly trailing, the group matches are proving to be a surprise on all fronts. While many are speculating who will win the trophy, there are only a few favourites left after initial showdowns. Brazil […]

Senate Committee Rejected Brazil Gambling Bill

Brazil Gambling Bill Rejected by Committee

Recently updated on March 12th, 2018After almost a year of stalling, a Brazil Gambling bill was finally considered by a specialised Senate committee. However, the Brazilian Comisión de Constitución, Justicia y Ciudadanía (CCJ) voted against legalising gambling in the country. When it was first introduced in 2014 by Senator Ciro Noguiera, the bill sought to […]

Gambling with Debit Cards to be Blocked by UK Banks

UK Banks to Block Cards for Local Gambling – NZ Betting News

Recently updated on January 9th, 2019Rising problem gambling and participation in the United Kingdom has sparked banks to take action. Starting this year, four UK banks will give players the option to block gambling transactions. Measures include blocking debit card payments at bookmakers and casino websites. Barclays was the first to offer the option. Lloyds, […]