Star Entertainment $300 million rescue package approved by regulators

Core Viewpoint - Queensland and New South Wales gaming authorities have approved a US-led rescue package for Star Entertainment Group, allowing Bally's Corporation and Investment Holdings to convert their $300 million debt into equity, significantly increasing their ownership stake in the company [1][5][10]. Regulatory Approvals - Queensland Attorney-General Deb Frecklington announced the necessary regulatory approvals for Bally's and Investment Holdings, confirming their suitability following an investigation by the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation [2][4]. - The NSW Independent Casino Commission (NICC) also granted approvals for Bally's to become a substantial shareholder of The Star, indicating that Bally's and its associated entities passed a rigorous assessment [5][7]. Financial Implications - The approvals will enable Bally's and Investment Holdings to convert their $300 million investment into equity, allowing them to have significant influence over The Star's casino operations in Queensland [5][8]. - Star Entertainment Group will also be able to nominate new members to its board as part of this deal, which is seen as a critical step towards financial stability [10][11]. Future Outlook - NICC chief commissioner Philip Crawford expressed anticipation that Bally's and Investment Holdings would soon proceed with their financial and operational commitments regarding The Star [8]. - Star's chair Anne Ward emphasized the importance of these regulatory approvals for the company's progress towards returning to suitability and achieving financial stability [10].