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Casino Cash Cow Business in Hungary: New 35-Year Jackpot for Fidesz Insiders

• 17 Feb 2026 6:57 AM

Fidesz-connected tycoons István Garancsi and Árpád Habony have hit the jackpot, landing a 35-year extension for LVC Diamond to run Debrecen's casino until 2061- the max allowed by law. Formerly Andy Vajna's cash cow, this renewal revives a pattern seen before the 2022 elections with Budapest's top casinos.

The late Andy Vajna, Hollywood heavyweight behind Rambo III and Evita, turned casinos into goldmines in Hungary, alongside his media and beauty pageant ventures. An Orbán ally, he steered LVC Diamond until 2019. Now, Garancsi and Habony carry the torch, blending business savvy with political ties.

Spotlight on Garancsi

István Garancsi, born 1972, thrives as a real estate and energy mogul on Hungary's rich lists. He chairs state energy giant MVM and fuels Ferencváros football club with stadium upgrades and star signings. Hotels and construction projects complete his portfolio, often aligning with major public ventures.

Habony's Strategic Vision 

Árpád Habony, 53, channels his psychology roots into political consulting, advising Orbán through Market Zrt.— the firm behind Fidesz's campaign successes since the 2000s. His reach spans media outlets like Origo, plus gaming and tobacco ventures, suiting his casino interests perfectly.

Echoes from Budapest

Flashback to pre-2022 polls: LVC Diamond's five Budapest casinos —think Las Vegas Casino chain —nabbed extensions to 2056. Critics cried foul over sidelined rivals in this billion-forint arena, while supporters highlight the Debrecen deal reinforces long-term stability in Hungary's highly regulated gambling world.
 

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