CAN THE SEMINOLE'S REALLY STAY IN PLACE IN FLORIDA - MAYBE OR MAYBE NOT

Implications: Is it really feasible for the tribe to stay within the boundaries of Florida. They have a strong brand with they Hard Rock name - can they afford to let it remain a captive audience for Florida or visa versa.  There are many opportunities out there to stay dormant. Where are they headed?

Analysis: No doubt that the Seminole's are one of the wealthiest Native American Tribes in this country. They were smart enough to get started many years ago with bingo at their West Hollywood, Florida property. They did well and made a name for themselves as a place to gamble in a legal fashion in South Florida. Please understand that there was always paramutial gambling in Florida - Horse racing, Hi Alai, dog racing. To no ones surprise they parlayed this into a major gaming company by partnering with the Hard Rock Hotels and Casino group. This was a very good marriage for both companies. It gave the seminoles an entry into slots, poker and now live gaming. It's not that they have a monopoly in Florida, but it does seem that with their near exempt tax status does give them a real upper hand.

It's been a belief that some day Dade County would go for full blown gaming. There are some top companies in Las vegas foaming at the mouth to get a foothold in the South Beach or near locations as it would certainly be a real boom for the Florida economy and the Vegas hotels. I think that it may just be a matter of time until this happens - it can't hurt the seminole's as they would still have that very large tax advantage.

It's been reported that the Tribe has wanted to get involved in the Macau market. As rumors go it seemed like a good addition for them to pursue. It has not yet taken place and some people that follow such things think it may not. Their entrance into the Nevada market could come. however, it would be doubtful that our own Tribes would stand for the intrusion. Remember they could look at entering the market by going at it like everyone else and buy land, build a property and pay their fair share to Nevada. Not sure they want that right now. I am not sure they want to invest their capital in a four or five billion project at the cost of money now. They are also faced with another group with their trade name operating in Las Vegas. It would be an interesting scenario. I think they will stay at home for the time being, that is, regarding gaming......