
RWNYC officially submits bid for New York casino licence
RWNYC, an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Genting Malaysia Bhd , said on Friday it had officially submitted its bid for a commercial casino licence to the New York State Gaming Commission.
The bid involves a US$5.5bil proposal for a 5.6 million sq ft development, which the RWNYC says "reimagines New York City's only casino as a vibrant, world-class integrated resort for entertainment, gaming, dining, recreation, and expansive public amenities".
'Fifteen years ago, Resorts World made a promise to turn this site into an economic engine for Southeast Queens, New York City, and New York State,' said Robert DeSalvio, president, Genting Americas East.
'And we succeeded, now generating more casino revenues and taxes each year than any other commercial casino in the US. Today is a major milestone for us to propose the world-class Resorts World Integrated Resort and further commit to this partnership and provide new career opportunities and tax revenue almost immediately, as soon as July 2026."
According to RWNYC, it could launch table game and full-casino slot machine operations within six months of receiving the gaming facility licence. It added it has the only bid with the size and readiness to drive new incremental revenue almost immediately.
According to RWNYC, the integrated resort will feature a 500,000 sq ft gaming floor with 6,000 slots and 800 table games. It would have 2,000 hotel rooms, a 7,000-seat entertainment venue with over 7,000 parking bays.
Facilities will also include more than 30 food and beverage outlets, a large-scale meeting space and other resport amenities including more than 10 acres of community greenspace.
The gaming operator added that the project would see the employment of an estimated 5,000 union construction jobs.

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


The Sun
4 minutes ago
- The Sun
Foxconn Technology Invests US$30 Million in Robocore to Expand into Medical and Elderly Care Robotics Market
HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 August 2025 - Robocore Technology Limited (Robocore), a partner company of Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), is pleased to announce the recent completion of its Series D funding. As the world's largest precision electronics manufacturer, Foxconn Technology Co., Ltd. ('FTC'), through its wholly-owned subsidiary Q-Run Holdings Limited, has made a strategic investment in Robocore's wholly-owned subsidiary RoboTemi Global Ltd. This investment marks FTC's official entry into the smart robotics market, bolstering its smart manufacturing and artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem, while paving the way for Robocore's future IPO. The transaction involves a total potential investment of up to US$30 million from FTC, beginning with an initial US$10 million investment in preferred shares, acquiring a 6.6% equity stake in RoboTemi Global Ltd. The agreement also includes two subsequent investment tranches of US$10 million each, which may be exercised on the first and second anniversaries of the initial investment. Valuations for these tranches will be determined by mutual agreement or third-party assessment. 'This is more than a capital injection — it's an affirmation of our company's future prospects,' said Mr Roy Lim, CEO of Robocore Technology. 'With world-leading manufacturing and supply chain capabilities, FTC will join forces with us to accelerate our growth, expand into new markets, and help us stride confidently toward our IPO milestone.' Mr Eric Or, Acting Chief Operating Officer of HKSTP, said, 'AI empowers Hong Kong's long-term economic development. HKSTP is pleased to see Robocore's rapid growth and global impact. Robocore's successful funding round not only signifies that a world-leading technology enterprise has endorsed its core robotics technology, but also proves that Hong Kong's tech ventures can firmly establish their position on the global stage.' Headquartered in Hong Kong Science Park, Robocore is the world's leading open-platform service robotics enterprise. Its products are deployed at nearly 20,000 client sites worldwide. Additionally, it serves over 5,000 sites in the US, spanning hospitals, elderly homes, retail chains, and households. In New York State alone, more than 200 elderly homes use its temi robots to assist doctors in completing remote diagnoses within two minutes — significantly reducing insurance costs and improving medical coverage rates. Moreover, approximately 50 four-star and five-star hotels, 1,300 universities, secondary and primary schools, over one hundred smart buildings and shopping malls and 2,000 system integrators with development capabilities in the world are using Robocore's products. With FTC's strategic and manufacturing support, Robocore is expected to achieve three-fold revenue growth over the next three years and aims for a five-fold increase by 2028. The company's growth will be primarily driven by accelerated expansion in the US, Europe, and Asia. Robocore plans to initiate its IPO process within five years, aiming to become one of the world's fastest-growing service robotic enterprises. Proceeds from this funding round will be mainly used to strengthen Robocore's telemedicine business in the US, Europe and Japan, launch new products for mainland China's consumer market, and expand global sales and marketing operations. These initiatives aim to further consolidate its industry leadership position while preparing for a pre-2030 IPO.

Sinar Daily
14 minutes ago
- Sinar Daily
Is an F1 comeback in Malaysia possible within five years?
KUALA LUMPUR - A Formula 1 (F1) comeback in Malaysia is not off the table, but it will not happen without serious funding, strategic planning and nationwide commitment, said Sepang International Circuit (SIC) chief executive officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif. "Even if we plan this, it could be in the next three to five years. (It's) because of the planning, because of the funding, and because of the coordination that we need to do within ministries and also corporate companies. "But it can happen, I believe it can happen…,' Azhan told Bernama in an interview recently. After joining the Formula 1 calendar in 1999, Malaysia last hosted an F1 Grand Prix in 2017. Since then, the sport has undergone a transformation, both in terms of global audience and commercial focus. With the Netflix-fuelled resurgence of F1 fandom and the explosion of Asian sports tourism, Malaysia is suddenly back in the conversation. But the question remains: is Malaysia ready to make the leap? REGIONAL PRESSURE, GLOBAL COMPETITION F1's expansion in Asia is accelerating, with Thailand set to debut on the calendar in 2028 and Singapore continuing its popular night race. "If that happens, we're going to be stuck between Singapore and Thailand on the calendar,' Azhan Shafriman said, noting the geopolitical and commercial significance of regional positioning. Sepang International Circuit (SIC) chief executive officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif. Photo by Bernama He said SIC stands ready to coordinate a potential comeback, acting as the bridge between government stakeholders and the Formula 1 management. However, two major challenges persist, namely securing a slot in the tightly packed 24-race calendar and obtaining sufficient funding. And that calendar is already full, with more countries waiting in line. "We are still in discussions with them (F1), building trust. They want to come back here, but the questions are: who's going to fund it and where do we fit in the calendar… there's always that element of luck,' he said. This means Malaysia is not only competing with Thailand and Singapore but with new and emerging bidders from around the globe. Demand for a slot on the calendar is high, and Formula 1 is known to be strategic in choosing venues that maximise global exposure, sponsorship and logistical balance. On the other hand, F1's pivot to city-based street circuits such as those in Baku (Azerbaijan), and Miami and Las Vegas (the United States) presents an additional challenge. "The direction that I see now, Formula 1 is moving towards street racing as compared to permanent circuits. But then again, for racing, Sepang makes sense because it is built for Formula 1,' said Azhan. He also noted that the last time Malaysia organised F1 events, the country paid associated fees - Formula One Management - of between US$50 million and US$55 million back in 2017. "Now, through (the) Netflix (series) 'Formula 1: Drive to Survive' and the F1 movie, its popularity has increased,' he added. With F1's growing international fan base and commercial profile, Azhan raised a critical point about affordability and fan expectations. "Whether there is a slot which is open for us to come back is one question. But the public also needs to consider that ticket pricing will be expensive if they want Formula 1 to return,' he said, adding that the nature of F1 has always been associated with a premium price tag. "Now or before, ticket prices have always been high for Formula 1. It has always been more expensive than MotoGP (the world's premier motorcycle racing championship). And we've hosted both, we know the difference. A lot of people want Formula 1 to come back. But the real question is, when we sell the tickets, will there be any take-up?' He said the cost difference is unavoidable given the scale of investment required for F1. He also pointed to the changing direction under F1's current owner, Liberty Media, which emphasises a broader event experience. "With Liberty Media injecting more of a lifestyle and entertainment concept into race weekends, the premium for F1 tickets has to be higher compared to MotoGP,' he added. Nevertheless, SIC intends to cater to wider audience groups. "There will be instances where we provide special seating for those who want to attend. Just like we do for MotoGP with the K2 Hillstand and Ticket Rahmah, we'll look at similar options for Formula 1,' he said. Despite rising operational costs and competitive pressures, Azhan stressed that the Sepang circuit remains a purpose-built, world-class racing venue. "Sepang was built for Formula 1, with wide lanes, sweeping corners and overtaking zones. It would be a waste to host it somewhere else when we have this beautiful circuit,' he said. VALUE OF F1: BEYOND THE TRACK Azhan argued that Formula 1 is one of the few global sports products that transcends the race itself, blending engineering, national pride and elite competition. "Formula 1 is easy to understand because it's broadcast week in, week out. The amount of engineering, technology… the stamp that comes around with Formula 1, it cannot compare with any other sports in the world,' he said. Beyond the desire to host an F1 race lies another, more emotionally charged goal: putting a Malaysian driver in Formula 1. "We had Alex Yoong last time. We almost got Jazeman (Jaafar) into the seat,' Azhan said. But the pathway to F1 is notoriously brutal. "There are only like 20 seats. And there are hundreds, if not thousands of young kids who are queuing up for the seat,' he added. Most elite drivers begin karting before they even hit their teenage years. From there, they ascend through national racing series, Formula 3 and Formula 2, with each step more expensive than the last. "If we have this target to put a Malaysian Formula 1 driver, it needs to start from the grassroots. There needs to be a lot of events being held in Malaysia, go-kart and so on,' he said. Now, a new frontier is emerging: virtual racing, with sim-racing and e-sports becoming legitimate feeder platforms for real-world motorsports. "There's a step right now that we're looking into that starts from e-sports, then you go on to real racing. If you've seen the movie 'Gran Turismo', it's based on a true story… that guy started from sim-racing and then he went on to do real racing,' he said. ECONOMIC MULTIPLIER EFFECTS Azhan, meanwhile, believes Malaysia is underestimating the tourism and economic benefits of international events like F1 and MotoGP. Based on SIC's economic impact study, a single international spectator contributes over RM7,700 during a seven- to 10-day stay in Malaysia, a figure that scales up rapidly with attendance. "For 2022 and 2023, the return was about 3.5. Last year, it went up by double… about six, almost six,' he said, referring to the return-on-investment multiplier for MotoGP. "Our neighbours are doing it… Singapore, Thailand, even Indonesia. And if we don't step up, we are going to lose more ground,' he warned. He also said Malaysia needs a strategist to assess all the events that can be brought in. While avoiding direct criticism of policymakers, he urged a more strategic and centralised approach to event acquisition. "I'm not saying that the government is not doing its job. I'm just saying that it could be more strategic,' he said. Azhan called for a bold rethinking of how Malaysia courts global events, particularly in terms of regulations and red tape. "We need someone like that (strategist) in our country to look at all these events that we can pull in… because if we need to be global, there's some leeway that we need to give away. But not affecting the principle of it. "I mean, we have to respect that Malaysia is a Muslim country. But then again, there are certain things that we have to be relaxed about in order for these people to come. We can't be so restrictive. If not, people will be running away to the neighbouring country,' he said, adding that if Formula 1 were to return to Malaysia, SIC could take on the role of coordinating it. He also credited the resilience of his team for keeping the Sepang circuit on track throughout the uncertainties of the pandemic, budget constraints and high expectations. "I've a brilliant team behind me that supported me throughout the years… I owe it to them,' he said. He then added, "Sepang is more than just a circuit. It is a symbol of what Malaysia could be if it dares to get back on the grid.' - BERNAMA


Free Malaysia Today
38 minutes ago
- Free Malaysia Today
US examines equity stake in chip makers for Chips Act cash grants, say sources
The White House confirmed earlier that US commerce secretary Howard Lutnick was working on a deal with Intel to take a 10% government stake. (AFP pic) WASHINGTON : US commerce secretary Howard Lutnick is looking into the government taking equity stakes in Intel as well as other chip companies in exchange for grants under the Chips Act that was meant to spur factory-building around the country, two sources said. As part of a plan to revive US manufacturing – a key Trump agenda – Lutnick said earlier yesterday the US government wants an equity stake in Intel in exchange for cash grants approved by the administration of former president Joe Biden. Now Lutnick wants to expand that plan to other companies, according to a White House official and a person familiar with the situation. The Trump administration has recently made unusual deals with US companies, including allowing AI chip giant Nvidia to sell its H20 chips to China in exchange for the US government receiving 15% of those sales. The Pentagon is slated to become the largest shareholder in a small mining company to boost the output of rare earth magnets. The government's intervention in corporate matters has worried critics who say President Donald Trump's actions create new categories of corporate risk and that a bad bet could mean a hit to taxpayer funds. Much of the funding under the Chips Act has not yet been dispersed for companies such as Micron, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co, Samsung and Intel. TSMC and Intel declined comment. Micron, Samsung and the White House did not respond to requests for comment on whether Lutnick is considering more stakes. Taking lawmaker questions in Taipei today and asked whether the US government could take a stake in TSMC, Taiwan economy minister Kuo Jyh-huei said his ministry would consult with the company, which he pointed out was private and not a state-owned enterprise. 'We will also discuss with the National Development Council, as it is a shareholder of TSMC. 'We will thoroughly understand the underlying meaning of the US commerce secretary's remarks, but this will require some time for discussion and assessment,' Kuo said. The two sources told Reuters yesterday that treasury secretary Scott Bessent is also involved in the Chips Act discussions, but that Lutnick is driving the process. The commerce department oversees the US$52.7 billion Chips Act money. Lutnick has been pushing the equity idea, the sources said, adding that Trump likes the idea. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed earlier that Lutnick was working on a deal with Intel to take a 10% government stake. 'The president wants to put America's needs first, both from a national security and economic perspective, and it's a creative idea that has never been done before,' she told reporters. Speaking on CNBC, Lutnick said the US wants a return on its 'investment'. 'We'll get equity in return for that … instead of just giving grants away,' he said. President Donald Trump has previously said he wanted to kill the Chips Act programme. Lutnick's comments suggested any stake would be non-voting, meaning it would not enable the US government to tell the company how to run its business. His comments came a day after SoftBank Group agreed to invest US$2 billion in Intel, which has struggled to compete after years of management blunders. 'The Biden administration literally was giving Intel money for free and giving TSMC money for free, and all these companies just giving the money for free, and Donald Trump turned it into saying, 'Hey, we want equity for the money. 'If we're going to give you the money, we want a piece of the action for the American taxpayer',' Lutnick said.