BetMGM, a collaborative undertaking between MGM Resorts International and European-based gambling company Entain, has recently been authorized by the Nevada Gaming Commission to manage sportsbook operations across nine MGM properties in Las Vegas. This strategic move, confirmed on February 27, 2025, is poised to redefine the sports betting landscape in the city.

Enhanced sportsbook management:

Previously functioning under a license that permitted significant involvement in MGM’s race and sports operations, BetMGM’s role has now been solidified with additional licensing, ensuring direct management of the sportsbook activities. Scott Scherer, BetMGM’s private counsel, highlighted the granting of a key employee license in December as a pivotal step towards this expansion.

The commission’s nod allows BetMGM to centralize its operations at Mandalay Bay, where it will manage sportsbooks from nine prominent locations including Aria, Bellagio, and MGM Grand among others. This integration uses technology provided by Entain and is set to enhance the betting experience with significant improvements to mobile sports betting features like live streaming and an expanded array of betting options.

The transition of operations is scheduled between the start of the Major League Baseball (MLB) season and the kickoff of the National Football League (NFL) season, marking a strategic timing to accommodate the integration complexities. This shift will also see the existing MGM sportsbook staff of 70 full-time and 30 part-time employees transitioning to BetMGM, with assurances from Scherer that their compensation will remain consistent, although paychecks will now be issued by BetMGM.

In a statement about the operational transition, Scherer emphasized the seamless nature of the changeover for employees and the meticulous planning involved in coordinating player rewards and integrating systems to ensure a smooth customer experience. As reported by CDC Gaming, he noted, “The biggest thing is how they integrate the systems and make it a seamless experience for the customer.”

Furthermore, BetMGM’s operations in Nevada are robust, with 115 personnel already stationed in the state. This local presence is crucial as BetMGM continues to strengthen its footprint across the country and ensures a significant level of oversight and operational control from within Nevada.

Compliance and responsible gaming:

During a recent hearing, Nevada Gaming Control Board members discussed compliance issues, including adherence to federal anti-money-laundering laws and the resolution of technology glitches that had previously affected consumer satisfaction. This discussion came in the backdrop of challenges faced by Entain in Australia, where regulators had pinpointed deficiencies in its anti-money-laundering measures.

In response to regulatory concerns, MGM officials reassured the board of increased internal oversight and clearer communication channels with regulators to preempt and resolve any potential issues swiftly. The collaboration between MGM and BetMGM also extends to security and surveillance operations, which MGM will continue to oversee through a contractual agreement, utilizing its established surveillance infrastructure to maintain compliance and security standards.

As stated in MGM Resorts’ press release, BetMGM’s enhanced role in Las Vegas is not just a business expansion but also a commitment to improving responsible gambling practices. This was echoed in MGM’s recent partnerships aimed at addressing problem gambling, highlighted during the observance of Problem Gambling Awareness Month. These initiatives, which involve collaborations with entities like the Kindbridge Research Institute and UNLV, demonstrate MGM’s ongoing commitment to community and industry sustainability through education and responsible gaming practices.