Las Vegas' Resorts World dismisses workers after incurring regulatory fine
Gambling Giant Resorts World Las Vegas Slashes Workforce Amid Financial Hurdles
In a surprising turn of events, Resorts World Las Vegas has let go of numerous employees, as per reports from the Las Vegas Review-Journal. The decision comes after the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) imposed a regulatory penalty on the casino.
Notably, fewer than 50 full-time employees bear the brunt of this workforce reduction, confirmed in a statement released by Resorts World. The company has stated that the restructuring is a strategic move aimed at setting up the business for long-term success.
"We appreciate the significant contributions all impacted team members have made," stated the company. "This decision is part of our ongoing efforts to boost efficiency and deliver an unparalleled guest experience."
Trouble Brewing
The workforce reduction unfolded within 24 hours of the company facing disciplinary action from the state regulators. Alongside its parent company, Genting Berhad, Resorts World Las Vegas is set to appear before the Nevada Gaming Commission to respond to allegations.
Last August, the NGCB filed a 10-count complaint against the casino, accusing it of violating anti-money laundering regulations. The board also alleged that the resort allowed individuals with ties to illegal bookmaking and federal felony convictions to gamble at the property.
To resolve the issue, Resorts World and its affiliates could face a potential fine of $10.5 million, which, if approved, would rank as the second-largest fine ever imposed by Nevada gaming regulators.
Despite the challenges, Resorts World remains resolute about improving operational efficiency. The company believes that the restructuring will help it deliver an exceptional guest experience while adhering to regulatory standards.
As Resorts World Las Vegas carries on operations amidst these legal and financial obstacles, industry stakeholders will carefully observe the upcoming hearing. The outcome could pave the way for regulatory enforcement in Nevada's gaming sector.
Behind the Layoffs
It's essential to clarify that the layoffs at Resorts World Las Vegas, and several other casinos, are primarily attributed to a variety of factors rather than being directly related to regulatory scrutiny or money laundering allegations.
These factors include:
- Dwindling Visitor Numbers: A decline in visitor volumes, particularly among international travelers, has put the industry under pressure[1].
- Technological Progress: The integration of automation and digital services has decreased the demand for certain in-person roles, leading to layoffs[1].
- Economic Struggles: Increasing labor costs, inflation influencing customer spending habits, and the drive for profitability have forced casinos to reassess their operations[1].
In March 2025, Resorts World, much like other casinos, including MGM Resorts International, faced a similar wave of layoffs. Yet, search results do not suggest that these layoffs were directly linked to regulatory issues or money laundering allegations; instead, they were primarily due to operational adjustments and broader economic factors[1][2].
For instance, MGM Resorts International, in an effort to adapt to evolving guest preferences, has axed in-person concierge services at numerous properties[2][3]. This shift mirrors the transformation happening across the hospitality industry, where digital services are increasingly chosen over traditional in-person services[2].
In the evolving casino-and-gambling industry, Resorts World Las Vegas, amidst financial hurdles and regulatory scrutiny, has been restructuring its operations, impacting a small number of full-time employees, in an attempt to boost efficiency and deliver an exceptional guest experience, aligning with emerging casino-culture trends. Simultaneously, factors such as dwindling visitor numbers, technological progress, and economic struggles have led to layoffs in casino-gaming establishments, including Resorts World, reflecting the broader transformation in the casino industry.
