VGW Founder exits CEO role amid US sweepstakes pressure

VGW Founder Laurence Escalante has resigned as CEO and Executive Chairman, ending his formal leadership role at the Australian social gaming supplier while criminal proceedings continue in Western Australia. 

The Perth-based group said Escalante’s resignation was effective immediately. Senior executive Mats Johnson, who has led the business as Acting CEO since January, will remain in place while VGW conducts a global search for a permanent chief executive. 

Escalante had been on leave since January after WA Police charged him with offences reportedly including family violence, assault, aggravated burglary and drug-related counts.  

ABC reported that police alleged he broke into a woman’s home, damaged property and stole items, with some charges linked to alleged family violence incidents between June 2025 and January 2026. 

Escalante has denied the allegations and intends to defend the charges.

VGW’s management transition comes during a difficult period for the US sweepstakes casino sector, where the group generates most of its player base through brands including Chumba Casino, Global Poker and LuckyLand Slots. 

VGW describes its model as free-to-play social gaming with optional purchases and sweepstakes promotions.

The sector has faced enforcement and legislative pressure across several US states. VGW withdrew or wound down products in markets including New York, New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland after a combination of cease-and-desist actions and proposed or enacted restrictions on sweepstakes casino promotions.

Escalante’s departure also follows a change in VGW’s ownership structure. In 2025, Lance East Office, Escalante’s family office, moved to acquire the remaining shares it did not already control after Escalante and related entities held approximately 70% of VGW. 

VGW Acting CEO, Mats Johnson, said: “We thank Laurence for these and many other achievements and contributions at VGW.” 

The company said Escalante resigned to focus on personal matters, private business, investing and philanthropic interests through his family office.

VGW expanded its Social Plus portfolio in December with the launch of LuckyLand Casino, adding free-to-play table games and social live casino experiences to its US-facing brand lineup.