IAGA Best Practices Sessions @ The Venetian Macao

Thursday, May 14, 2026

10 a.m.
Opening / Welcome Remarks
10:05 – 10:45 a.m. Building on Global Experience: Shaping the Future of Gambling and Betting Regulation
Join us for an engaging fireside chat examining how regulators around the world are drawing on lessons from established gambling jurisdictions to design robust, responsible, and future‑ready regulatory frameworks. Grounded in international best practices—including responsible gambling, anti‑money laundering (AML), and fraud monitoring—this discussion will explore practical strategies for effective regulation, common pitfalls to avoid, and approaches that balance innovation with consumer protection. The session will deliver actionable insights for policymakers, regulators, operators, and stakeholders navigating the complexities of regulating gambling and betting in both emerging and mature markets, with a focus on safeguarding market integrity and player trust.

Join moderator Rui Pinto Proenca, the Managing Partner for MdME and Ben Haden, the President for the International Association of Gambling Regulators (IAGR) and a Director at the Gambling Commission of Great Britain.

10:55 – 11:35 a.m.

AI and its Use in Gambling and Beyond
Explore how artificial intelligence can and is reshaping the gambling industry and driving responsible innovation across industry verticals. In this masterclass, experts from Amazon Web Services (AWS) will showcase the latest AI applications in gambling, and highlight how AI can be responsibly used to enhance the customer. Drawing on AI best practices from other industries, the discussion will help the audience gain a better understanding on how to leverage AI ethically and effectively, ensuring compliance, security, and superior customer engagement.

Presented by Paul Devlin, Betting, Gaming & Sports Worldwide Industry Leader for Amazon Web Services (AWS)
11:35 – 11:50 a.m.

 Tea Break
11:50 a.m.- 12:30 p.m.

Evolving Responsible Gambling Programs in Asia
As Asia’s gambling markets expand and mass market participation rises, responsible gambling programs must adapt to new challenges and opportunities. This panel will explore how Asian jurisdictions are strengthening player protections, drawing on lessons from global leaders. Experts will discuss the evolution of responsible gambling initiatives—including self-exclusion, education, and harm minimization—and examine the impact of advertising restrictions and bans implemented in other regions.

Moderated by Peter Cohen, the Director of Regulatory Affairs for The Agenda Group, the panelists are:

  • Joseph Bufalino, Executive Director of Responsible Gambling, Marina Bay Sands
  • Tracy Schrans, Principal & President, Focus Research Consultants
  • Al Watson, CEO, DataWorks Group
12:30 – 2 p.m.

Networking Luncheon
2  - 2:40 p.m.

Financial Crime Prevention and Compliance: Innovations and Best Practices
During this masterclass on the latest in financial crime prevention, detection and compliance, experts from (insert company here) will examine the latest trends, challenges, and solutions for global gambling industry operators. Our experts will discuss the integration of advanced technologies for financial crime and fraud detection and evolving regulatory requirements, highlighting best practices  and drawing on real-world examples from both gambling and finance. Attendees will gain actionable strategies for staying ahead of emerging threats, maintaining robust compliance standards, and fostering a culture of integrity and transparency.

Presented by Thomas Townson, Partner & Head of Financial Crime for Grant Thornton UK
2:40 - 3 p.m.

Networking Break
3 – 3:40  p.m.

Strategic Outlook for Asian Land-Based Casino Markets:
Innovation, Investment, and the Future of Premium Mass Market
This panel brings together industry leaders and market experts to explore the evolving landscape of Asian land-based casino markets. The discussion will address the shift to post-junket revenue models and the rise of premium mass segments, as well as strategies for capital expenditure, integrated resort (IR) pipelines, and successful market entry. Panelists will also examine innovations in cashless gaming, floor efficiency, and customer experience (CX), sharing insights on how technology and operational excellence are shaping the future of the region’s casino industry. 

Moderated by Pedro Cortes, a Partner with Lektou, the panelists are:

  • Muhammad Cohen, Asia Editor at Large, Clarion Gaming
  • Alexander Ngo, Director, LexisNexis Risk Solutions