Customers of Costco can purchase vacation packages for the Fontainebleau hotel in Las Vegas
The Fontainebleau Las Vegas, the newest casino on the Las Vegas Strip, is currently under an active anti-money laundering (AML) investigation by the Nevada Gaming Commission. This revelation, which was accidentally made during a commission meeting in early August 2025, concerns potential failures in compliance with AML regulations.
The investigation is related to financial matters, specifically "credit issuance," and is part of a broader regulatory focus in Nevada on AML compliance in casinos. In the past, similar investigations have led to multimillion-dollar fines for casinos such as MGM Grand and Resorts Las Vegas. If Fontainebleau is found to have committed AML compliance errors, it could face fines amounting to several million dollars.
Since opening in December 2023, the Fontainebleau Las Vegas has faced operational challenges, including disappointing visitor numbers and workforce changes. The ongoing AML probe adds to these difficulties. The casino has reportedly let go more than 60 table game dealers, most recently in May, and there have been departures in the company's senior management, including the Chief Financial Officer and Chief Technology Officer.
The struggles to fill rooms might be due to various factors, including the casino's recent opening and potential challenges in the hospitality industry. However, the anti-money laundering investigation could potentially impact the Fontainebleau Las Vegas' reputation and operations.
Despite these challenges, the Fontainebleau Las Vegas has recently partnered with Costco to offer vacation packages. These packages include a $100 food and beverage credit and may provide an opportunity for the casino to attract more visitors and potentially improve its occupancy rate. However, it's important to note that this offer is a limited-time offer.
As the investigation continues, no public resolution or further details on the investigation or charges have yet been reported. The Fontainebleau Las Vegas will undoubtedly be hoping for a favourable outcome, as the potential financial penalties could be significant. The escalating scrutiny of AML controls within Nevada casinos, including more active enforcement and significant fines for those found non-compliant, underscores the importance of maintaining strict adherence to these regulations.
- The current anti-money laundering investigation of the Fontainebleau Las Vegas could potentially affect not only its finances but also its reputation, as it is one of the many casino-and-gambling establishments in Las Vegas offering casino-games.
- In light of the ongoing AML investigation, the Fontainebleau Las Vegas might find it beneficial to focus more on entertainment offerings to attract visitors, as it faces operational challenges and struggles to maintain occupancy rates.
