Due to their unlawful operations within the state, offshore operator Ace23 and its managing firm, Ace Per Head, are facing legal action from the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB). Both organizations received cease-and-desist orders from the MGCB, which pointed out their infractions of Michigan’s gaming regulations.
Ace23 provides a platform for agents, or bookies, to oversee sportsbook and casino operations. Ace23 is accessible through the website Ace23.ag. The Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, the Michigan Penal Code, and the Lawful Internet Gaming Act are among the statutes that Ace23 is found to have broken, according to the MGCB. Despite presenting itself as part of the Ace Gaming Network, which claims to possess licenses in Canada and Costa Rica, Ace23 is not licensed to operate in Michigan.
The MGCB’s inquiry indicates that Ace23 gives agents the ability to manage their own wagering businesses with unique websites and skins. The platform charges agents $10 for each active participant each week, but it does not manage bets or payouts; instead, it defers these duties to the agents.
Concerns Over Payment Methods and Platform Integrity
One of the MGCB’s primary concerns involves Ace23’s payment methods, which include cryptocurrency and gift cards. Agents pay for platform services by submitting gift card codes or transferring cryptocurrency, methods that raised red flags for the regulatory body.
Henry Williams, Executive Director of the MGCB, emphasized the Board’s commitment to protecting consumers, stating, “The Michigan Gaming Control Board is committed to safeguarding the integrity of legal gaming in the state and protecting consumers from illicit offshore operations like Ace23.”
Within 14 days, Ace23 and Ace Per Head are required by the cease-and-desist orders to terminate all of their gambling activities in Michigan.
Following verification of their adherence to state laws, the MGCB recently extended the licenses of Detroit’s three casinos: MotorCity, MGM Grand Detroit, and Hollywood Casino at Greektown. Additionally, the Board established policies aimed at stimulating small business growth in Michigan’s gaming industry by offering incentives for them to provide services to these casinos.
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