G2E 2019 Spotlights Industry Innovation

As I reflect on my first G2E at the helm of the AGA ahead of our fall Board of Directors meeting, I can’t help but be even more excited about where the gaming industry is headed. The impressive show floor—with 400 exhibitors—highlighted new innovations in payments modernization, the growth of sports betting, and the continued evolution of table game and slot machine offerings. There really is no better place to see how high-tech, ground-breaking, and mainstream the gaming industry is than the G2E tradeshow floor—which CNBC broadcasted to the world by streaming live from our event.  

The more than 125 education sessions brought prominent industry leaders and outside voices to G2E on topics ranging from tribal gaming to gaming operations and marketing to compliance. I particularly enjoyed the insights from NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, Joe Asher, Greg Carlin, and Matt King during the Sports Betting Symposium.  

I appreciated the opportunity to reflect on the state of the industry and share my priorities to champion gaming’s impact in communities, turn that impact into political influence, and advance a regulatory environment to help the industry innovate and deliver an even greater experience for our guests. I also must extend my gratitude to Governor Christie for joining us to share his perspective on how we got here and future opportunities for sports betting.  

While G2E is a reflection of where gaming is headed, it also provided the opportunity to recognize the innovators who built today’s industry at AGA’s Gaming Hall of Fame ceremony. This year’s inductees—Elaine Hodgson, co-founder, president and CEO of Incredible Technologies; Ernie Moody, president of Action Gaming; and Stanley Mallin, real estate, hotel, and casino developer—made significant contributions to the gaming entertainment industry. Congratulations to Elaine, Ernie, and Stanley, true pioneers in gaming.  

G2E truly exceeded my expectations from the talent on the floor to the innovations and technology presented and the deep educational content to the robust networking opportunities. Thank you for your continued support of G2E. It is a high watermark for the industry and the association.