SGR ASX: Star Entertainments mystery Macau backer hikes stake for second time in a week For a sharemarket gambler, an investment in Star is the ultimate high-adrenaline bet. And make no mistake – this is a big bet from an investor – even one who is located at the epicentre of gambling and who thrives on risk. He has been stalking Star since September last year but only showed his hand this week when his stake tipped over the 5 per cent notification threshold. ASIC has accused them of not paying sufficient attention to the risks of money laundering and criminal association that have financially crippled the casino operator with massive fines and gambling restrictions on its pokies. The casino operator also remains embroiled in legal challenges, with the financial crimes regulator AUSTRAC seeking a $400 million penalty against the company for alleged money laundering, in a court case that kicked off earlier this month. Star Entertainment’s major Macau-based investor has increased his stake in the company for a second time in a week, with the mystery businessman now owning almost 7 per cent of the struggling casino operator. More than 8000 jobs hang in the balance as teetering casino operator Star Entertainment is on the brink of financial collapse, with its board in last-ditch talks late on Friday to find the cash needed to keep the company afloat. The collapse of the deal means Star Entertainment will retain its 50% equity interest in Destination Brisbane Consortium (DBC). Star must also reimburse the JV partners an estimated $31 million in equity contributions by 5 September. This means Star Entertainment will have to pay back the $10 million it received from the JV partners by next Wednesday. Star Entertainment has announced that the deal to sell its 50% stake in Queen's Wharf, plus other assets in Brisbane, is now off. The deal falling over would leave Star saddled with those costs, as it attempts to turn its business around with the backing of Bally's.