Starting this week, a significant shift in the cash-out procedures for poker chips on the Las Vegas Strip will be implemented by several casino operators. Major players like Caesars Entertainment, MGM Resorts International, and Wynn Resorts will now only allow poker chips to be redeemed at their respective properties. This marks the end of any prior agreements where poker chips from other casinos were accepted.
MGM Resorts, which operates four poker rooms on the Strip, confirmed this policy change. Similarly, Wynn and Encore will only cash out their own poker chips. The Venetian and Palazzo are also updating their poker chip exchange policies, with the new rules taking effect on Wednesday. This move is aimed at enhancing compliance with anti-money laundering regulations.
Caesars Entertainment, which manages three poker rooms and hosts the World Series of Poker, has announced that only its branded chips will be redeemable at its properties. Signs posted in their casinos inform patrons of the new policy, which will be fully enforced by July 2025.
While MGM will still allow poker chips to be redeemed across its own casinos, the general prohibition on accepting chips from other casinos is being implemented to address anti-money laundering concerns. Nevada gaming officials have expressed support for this industry-driven change, viewing it as a proactive measure to tackle money laundering.
Currently, this policy shift is specific to poker chips and does not affect chips from other table games. The Las Vegas Strip hosts 11 poker rooms in casinos such as Aria, Bellagio, Caesars Palace, and others. This change reflects a broader effort within the gaming industry to enhance regulatory compliance and reduce the risk of illicit financial activities.