VGW Holdings to leave New York State

Key Points
- Free-to-play games will still be available
- Sweepstakes promotions will be phased out
VGW Holdings Limited has decided to stop operating in the state of New York. The company advised players of the decision to phase out of the state last week.
A spokesperson for the company further explained the decision and how this will affect players around the state.
The spokesperson said, “We can confirm that following careful consideration, we’ve informed players of a decision to phase out Promotional Play (sweepstakes promotions) in the state of New York.
“Our valued players in New York will still be able to enjoy all their favorite free-to-play games using Gold Coins, and we are 100 percent focused on ensuring players are fully informed about the changes, and that this transition is as smooth and seamless as possible.”
For more than a decade, VGW has operated throughout North America.
“We understand this is an adjustment after many years and some players may be disappointed. This decision wasn’t taken lightly and was made at this time in the best interests of all our stakeholders,” the company further explained. “We acknowledge increased interest in our innovative industry that millions of Americans enjoy, and are committed to respectful engagement on establishing modern, appropriate regulatory structures that benefit players and states alike.”
In other state news, the Social and Promotional Games Association (SPGA) recently released a response to New York Senate Bill S5935, an amendment which seeks to ban online sweepstakes promotions.
Changes were made the bill because of “widespread concerns that the bill would criminalize promotional sweepstakes and marketing tools used by both small businesses and major brands.”
Under the terms of the amendment, the New York State Gaming Commission will decide what constitutes a “dual-currency system” under the law, not the legislation itself.
The SPGA described the amendment as a measure that does not address areas of concern.
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