Union Gaming Group expands research division, adds analysts

LAS VEGAS -- Las Vegas-based Union Gaming Group has expanded it research division, adding three analysts.

The company, which is as an investment bank dedicated to the gaming industry, named Chris Jones as managing director and head of equity research in North America. Jones previously held a similar role with Telsey Advisory Group. John DeCree, a Telsey gaming analyst who worked alongside with Jones, is also joining Union Gaming.

Steven Maniago will also join Union Gaming’s research division. He most recently worked as director of business development and finance for the Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development.

Jones and DeCree will be based in New York. Maniago will work out of Union Gaming’s Las Vegas office.

“Chris is a seasoned analyst possessing deep technical skills, fundamental insights, and extensive corporate relationships,” said Union Gaming co-founder Bill Lerner. “He delivers the type of research product, actionable ideas, and unique industry perspective that we are thrilled to be adding to the global platform.”

The three will work with Grant Govertsen, who is based in Macau and heads up Union Gaming’s equity research team.

Union Gaming Group has offices in Las Vegas, New York, Hong Kong and Macau. The company has multiple divisions, including equity research, sales and trading, investment banking, and gaming-related market and economic analyses. The company also advises on mergers and acquisitions, private placements, and equity and debt offerings.