Gaming briefs for March 9, 2004

Tuesday, March 9, 2004 | 11:09 a.m.

Slot maker reports approvals in three U.S. states

SYDNEY, Australia -- Aristocrat Leisure Ltd., the world's second biggest maker of slot machines, on Monday said it has received approval for key products from regulators in three U.S. states.

The New Jersey Casino Control Commission approved Aristocrat's "Mr. Cashman" and "Reel Power" games, Mississippi will allow it to sell three video slot machines -- King of the Nile, Tiki Torch and Double Dolphins -- and the Nevada Gaming Commission approved a further eight games.

Separately, Credit Suisse First Boston analyst Moira Daw cut her rating on Aristocrat to "underperform" from "neutral" citing the stock's 46 percent rise since Feb. 23.

Spokesman says Lanni didn't lobby for slots during trip

MGM MIRAGE's top executive didn't visit Maryland last year to help lobby for the legalization of slot machines in the state, nor did he discuss the slots issue with anyone during the trip, a company executive said Monday.

The Washington Post reported the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development last year invited MGM MIRAGE Chief Executive Terry Lanni -- along with executives from other Fortune 500 companies -- to attend the Preakness Stakes.

Lanni attended the horse race as well as one of two presentations on doing business in Maryland, a pitch given to other executives, MGM MIRAGE spokesman Alan Feldman said.

That the state paid for Lanni's hotel room wasn't improper, he said.

"States often use (major) events ... as a way to attract business leaders. It was about investing in Maryland."

Feldman said the Las Vegas company isn't "actively pursuing" any ventures in Maryland nor does it have lobbyists in the state.