In a decisive move to bolster compliance standards across the U.S. gaming industry, the American Gaming Association (AGA) has released updated best practices on anti-money laundering (AML) frameworks. The new 64-page guideline arrives just days before the Global Gaming Expo (G2E) 2025 in Las Vegas and emphasizes the urgent need for casinos and sportsbooks to strengthen internal controls against money laundering particularly involving cryptocurrencies.
The AGA’s guidance focuses on developing risk-based programs that ensure compliance with the Bank Secrecy Act. One of its key recommendations is that virtual currencies used in gaming transactions must be converted to U.S. dollars before wagering. This approach places crypto-related transactions under the same Suspicious Activity Report (SAR) requirements as cash, thereby enhancing traceability and reducing anonymity in digital payments.
The move comes amid heightened scrutiny of AML lapses in the gaming sector. Earlier this year, MGM Resorts, Wynn Las Vegas, and Resorts World settled multi-million-dollar fines with the Nevada Gaming Commission for compliance failures. The AGA’s initiative aims to help operators avoid similar risks and promote a culture of integrity and accountability.
As crypto becomes more integrated into sports betting and casino operations, the AGA’s updated AML framework provides a clear roadmap for operators to mitigate financial crime, safeguard customer trust, and uphold the credibility of the $329 billion U.S. gaming market. The guidelines are expected to dominate discussions at G2E Las Vegas, where compliance officials from leading operators will share insights on implementation and best practices.
