EuroVegas: Catalonia's Gambling on a New Poker Era

The EuroVegas project is causing a stir in Spain, with the Generalitat de Catalunya expressing enthusiasm for the venture. If Sheldon Adelson decides to move the project to Madrid, the Catalan government is open to allowing any other company to take it on. This willingness is driven by the potential for job creation and economic growth.

Cirsa, a prominent Catalan group, has shown interest in the EuroVegas project, provided the same conditions offered to Las Vegas Sands are met. These conditions include reduced gaming taxes, land concessions, and the controversial permission to smoke in casinos. The Catalan government sees this as an opportunity to boost the region's economy and create new job opportunities.

Meanwhile, the Spanish tax authority's demand for back taxes from PokerStars could delay the acquisition of Full Tilt Poker, which is valued between 750 and 900 million dollars. The exact cost for PokerStars to obtain a license in the regulated environment remains uncertain, with estimates ranging from 50 to 200 million dollars. Additionally, Marvin Rettenmaier has joined the PartyPoker team, alongside Spanish player Tomeu Gomila “Amatos”.