- Following the horrific events that took place in Las Vegas on October 1, AGEM members quickly rallied to offer support to the Las Vegas Victims’ Fund. The Board of Directors agreed to a contribution of $50,000 with a number of AGEM member companies also individually contributing to provide an additional $118,500 to the fund. Initially set up by the Clark County Commission to provide victims with funds for funeral, medical, travel and other expenses, it has currently raised close to $20 million.
- The AGEM Memorial Awards honoring Jens Halle and Peter Mead were presented on the show floor at G2E to industry veterans Rick Meitzler and Roger Gros, respectively. Both recipients are well-deserving AGEM members who have made their mark on the industry. The event was especially powerful this year as Jens Halle’s wife, Marietta, was in Las Vegas and attended the presentation.
- Events in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania regarding the legislative review of approving video gaming terminals continue to change regularly. At the beginning of October there seemed to be more focus on mini-casinos and truck stops as proposed locations, but a subsequent change in the focus leaves many options still open. AGEM is a member of the Pennsylvania Video Gaming Association and continues to offer support for gaming expansion.
- A landmark court case in Melbourne, Australia pitting a slot player and her law firm against Aristocrat Technologies and Crown Resorts has seen both sides conclude all their evidence, and the judge will rule in due course. The outcome is being closely watched, as the player is claiming one game title is deceptive and misleading despite receiving regulatory approval in markets all over the world.
- G2E took place October 3-5, with organizer Reed Expo reporting a slower start to the show due to the events of the previous days. Attendance was slightly down overall at both the expo and conference; however, the show saw 97 new exhibitors and continues to grow.
UPCOMING EVENTS
- The AGEM Cup Golf Tournament/Holiday Reception will take place on Friday, November 10, at Southern Highlands Country Club. Notifications are being sent out for golfers to sign up and register interest.
AGEM INDEX
The AGEM Index experienced significant gains in September 2017. The composite index stood at 457.91 points at the close of the month, which represents an increase of 26.25 points, or 6.08 percent, when compared to August 2017. The AGEM Index reported a year-over-year increase for the 24th consecutive month and has climbed 151.05 points, or 49.23 percent, since September 2016. During the latest period, one half of the global gaming equipment manufacturers reported within the AGEM Index posted month-to-month increases in stock price, with four up by more than 10 percent. Two manufacturers saw no change in their stock price, while four manufacturers reported decreases in stock price during the month, with all posting single-digit declines.
