A Singaporean man, Wong Yew Choy, has been ordered by the Australian courts to repay The Star Gold Coast casino A$38.65 million (S$33.7 million) after losing A$47.3 million (S$41.17 million) during a gambling spree between Jul. 26 and Aug. 2, 2018. The Queensland Supreme Court’s judgment also includes legal fees and interest.
Background
Wong had previously secured gaming chips on credit at The Star Sydney in May 2017 using a signed blank personal cheque, which remained unused as he settled his losses through other means. Upon arriving at The Star Gold Coast on Jul. 28, 2018, Wong signed documents to secure gaming chips on credit and authorised his friend to sign cheques for A$40 million (S$34.8 million) and A$10 million (S$8.7 million). By Jul. 31, 2018, Wong had accrued net gambling losses totalling A$47.3 million (S$41.17 million), later reduced to about A$43 million (S$37.4 million) after rebates and allowances.
Dispute over dealer
Wong’s lawyers claimed that the casino’s Chief Operating Officer (COO) verbally waived Wong’s losses after he raised an issue about the baccarat dealers. The casino, however, stated they only offered a rebate of A$4.5 million (S$3.9 million) after Wong’s complaint on Jul. 29, 2018, which Wong rejected. Wong alleged that he and the COO agreed he wouldn’t have to pay for his losses if the dealers made further mistakes. The COO denied this agreement, and the judge found Wong’s version unsupported by evidence.
Court’s decision
The judge ruled that Wong’s handing over of cheques in exchange for gambling credits constituted a “loan,” making him liable to repay the casino as the cheques were dishonoured. Wong was ordered to repay A$38,659,853.22 (S$33,654,994.43), plus interest and costs, after A$4,550,000 (S$3,960,485.10) was deducted from the casino’s claim for reasons not material to the suit.
Implications and future developments
This case highlights the legal complexities and financial risks associated with high-stakes gambling. The ruling serves as a cautionary tale for gamblers and casinos alike, emphasising the importance of clear agreements and the potential consequences of disputes. Future implications may include stricter regulations and more robust credit policies within the casino industry to prevent similar incidents.
