Massachusetts Gaming authorities delay decision on Fanatics' gaming license approvals until next week.
Massachusetts Gaming Commission Delays Decision on Fanatics' Mobile Sports Betting Application
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) has pushed back its decision on Fanatics' mobile sports betting application, citing the need for further discussion. The commission is expected to reconvene on Wednesday morning to continue deliberations.
Thursday's meeting was marred by a disagreement between Commissioner Nakisha Skinner and Chair Cathy Judd-Stein, stemming from a misunderstanding regarding the meeting's ending time. Skinner had planned to return later in the afternoon, but the commission required additional time to deliberate on Fanatics' application. The exchange grew heated, with Judd-Stein interrupting Skinner on several occasions.
"Commissioner Skinner, you are out of order," Judd-Stein said sharply.
Despite the minor altercation, the commission managed to set a schedule for further discussions. They will again review Fanatics' sports betting platform on Wednesday, with an extra slot reserved for Thursday if additional time is needed.
During Thursday's meeting, there were concerns about Fanatics' business model and its commitment to responsible gambling. Commissioner Eileen O'Brien sought clarification on the specifics of employee responsible gaming training. The discussions reflect the rigorous regulatory scrutiny often applied to Massachusetts sports betting applications.
There were also concerns about a $322,050 settlement that Fanatics paid to resolve a race and discrimination retaliation lawsuit filed by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) in 2019. This matter, along with the company's financial details and performance, is expected to be discussed in depth during an upcoming executive session.
An additional executive session took place Thursday morning, during which Fanatics demonstrated its mobile sports betting platform in closed session. While the public was unable to observe the demonstration, it was learned that Fanatics intends to use Amelco source code to power its wagering platform. Amelco has previously provided technology for sports betting platforms in Arkansas, Fubo Gaming, and WynnBET, among others.
The Fanatics mobile sports betting platform, once launched, is anticipated to be available on both iOS and Android devices, accessible in 22 states and the District of Columbia, and featuring live betting, live streaming for select events, a loyalty program, and promotions. Responsible gambling tools and 24/7 customer support will also be available. The platform's revenue streams will include real-money wagering, commissions on bets, and cross-selling through Fanatics' merchandise ecosystem via the FanCash program.
[1] https://www.fanatics.com/casino[2] https://www.fanatics.com/sportsbook[3] https://www.fanatics.com/responsible-gaming[4] https://www.playma.com/news/amp/57909/fanatics-commits-over-320k-to-boston-catholic-academy-fundraiser[5] https://www.playma.com/news/amp/59078/fanatics-ceo-outlines-regulatory-options-for-massachusetts-mobile-sports-betting
Commissioner Eileen O'Brien inquired about the details of Fanatics' employee training in responsible sports betting, implying a focus on educating staff regarding gambling responsibilities.
The anticipated Fanatics sports betting platform, when launched, will not only offer live betting and live streaming for certain events, but also features like a loyalty program, promotions, and the use of Amelco source code for its wagering system.
