Category: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) - SBC Summit Canada recently concluded in Toronto, uniting the industry at a critical juncture for the Canadian gaming sector. The impending launch of Alberta’s regulated market spurred extensive discussions on regulation, responsible gambling, advertising reform, cybersecurity, and future market expansion. The event, held from May 19-21 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, marked the inaugural edition under the SBC Summit Canada name, following its rebrand from the Canadian Gaming Summit. Rasmus Sojmark, CEO & Founder of SBC, commented: “This year’s event clearly demonstrated Canada’s growing importance within the global gaming industry dialogue. The depth of discussions, the caliber of attendees, and the urgency surrounding topics like Alberta, regulation, and player protection highlighted a rapidly evolving market.” Over three days, the summit convened operators, suppliers, regulators, government representatives, affiliates, sportsbooks, responsible gambling organizations, payment providers, and technology companies. Many participants described it as the industry’s primary meeting point in Canada. The timing of this year’s summit placed Alberta firmly at the forefront of industry conversations, with **Dale Nally**, Alberta Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction, delivering a keynote address titled “Launching Alberta’s Safe, Regulated iGaming Future.” Alberta’s forthcoming market remained a central theme throughout the summit. Representatives from Alberta iGaming Corporation (AiGC) and AGLC were present, and **Dan Keene**, CEO of AiGC, joined Martin Lycka for a live edition of The Safe Bet Show to discuss the province’s developing regulatory framework and its responsible approach to market entry. **Keene** stated that the event played a vital role in preparing industry stakeholders for launch discussions. “We are not here to expand the gaming market; we are here to channel the illegal market into the legal and regulated space,” he explained. He added: “If my schedule over the last two days is any indication, it has been excellent. It’s been back-to-back meetings and engagements, proving very fulfilling and rich with meaningful connections.” The conference agenda extensively covered the regulatory and operational challenges shaping the industry’s next growth phase. Panels explored advertising reform, AI, cybersecurity, compliance, player protection, payments, and evolving omnichannel strategies, alongside opportunities presented by the 2026 FIFA World Cup. **Tom Burdakin**, Marketing Vice President at **FanDuel**, remarked: “Everyone is genuinely excited about Alberta and the World Cup. I believe that a year from now, when we return to this summit, we will look back on those two moments as having somewhat transformed the industry.” Burdakin also highlighted the event's increasingly international profile, observing: “It’s remarkable how many individuals are traveling from the US and Europe to attend this event in Toronto.” While **64.6% of attendees were based in Canada**, the summit also attracted a significant international audience, reinforcing Canada’s growing importance in global gaming industry discussions. The exhibition floor showcased companies offering solutions in sportsbook technology, payments, compliance, marketing, AI, data, lottery, and casino, reflecting the broad scope of the Canadian gaming ecosystem and the industry’s increasing interconnectedness. **Tracy Parker**, SVP, Accreditation, Advisory & Insights at the **Responsible Gambling Council**, noted that the event demonstrated the Canadian industry’s increasingly collaborative nature. She observed: “The cross-sector collaboration is evident in the creative content and programs. There is a truly vibrant mix of land-based gaming, iGaming, charitable gaming, and lottery stakeholders present.” **Thomas Metzger**, CEO of **Lotto.com**, stated: “You truly get to establish your presence, share your story, and engage in productive dialogue with other CEOs about the industry’s future direction.” **Paul Pellizzari**, Vice President – Global Social Responsibility at **Hard Rock International**, commented: “It is the only event in Canada where you will find balanced representation from all types of industry participants.” With nearly **half of attendees holding senior decision-making positions**, the summit solidified its standing as a premier business and policy forum for the Canadian market. Executives, regulators, and industry leaders utilized the event to foster strategic conversations and forge new partnerships. **Amanda Brewer**, SVP Policy & Communications at the **Canadian Gaming Association**, said: “Considering the networking opportunities and the caliber of attendees, you definitely see a strong presence of C-suite, VIP, and higher-level individuals.” **Jeff Laniado**, Director of Sales at **Optimove**, emphasized the wide industry representation, adding: “Earlier today, I met with a C-level executive from a tier-one operator, indicating that individuals from operators of every size and every area of these companies seem to be represented.” **Mark Wrigley**, Head of Betting at **F1**, stated that the seniority of attendees was crucial to the event's value: “It’s essential that we engage with those high-level decision-makers because that’s ultimately where we want to foster dialogues, drive initiatives forward, and secure company-wide buy-in.” “SBC Summit Canada has become the central forum where the industry convenes to discuss future developments, and we are immensely proud to provide that platform,” **Sojmark** concluded. As Alberta’s market launch approaches and industry attention increasingly focuses on Canada’s evolving regulatory landscape, the discussions and partnerships formed in Toronto are expected to shape the sector’s next phase of growth well beyond the summit itself. **SBC Summit Canada is scheduled to return to Toronto from June 15–17, 2027. For sponsorship and exhibition inquiries, please contact** sales@sbcgaming.com**. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Growing concerns are escalating across Southeast Asia that illegal gambling rings are shifting their operations away from Cambodia amid the government’s crackdown on scam hubs. Thai media outlet The Nation reported that 106 Thai citizens were arrested in Laos on suspicion of involvement in call-centre scams and online gambling operations based in the country’s Bolikhamxay region. Earlier this month, authorities in Sri Lanka also announced that they arrested over 1,000 foreign nationals for cybercrime in 2026, marking a sharp increase compared to previous years. Sri Lankan officials shared that most of the arrested foreign nationals were from China, Vietnam and India, and attribute the rise in arrests to crackdowns on this activity in hotspots Cambodia and Myanmar, which pushed criminals to seek out new locations to base their operations. Cambodia has long faced repeated criticism for failing to act against scam centres tied to the country’s casinos, which are reported to have defrauded victims out of billions of dollars total. In response to mounting pressure, the Cambodian government passed its first dedicated cybercrime law aimed specifically at targeting those behind online scams. People convicted of participating in the targeted criminal operations will face between two and five years of prison time and fines of up to $125,000. For scams run by organized gangs or targeting multiple victims, maximum sentences can stretch up to 10 years. Per the Cambodian China Times, Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sar Sokha told Swiss Ambassador to Cambodia Pedro Zwhalen that the country’s crackdown has resulted in the arrest, deportation, or voluntary departure of over 300,000 foreign nationals linked to online fraud. 91 casinos were also shut down last month by the country’s gaming regulator after being accused of backing online fraud networks. The shutdown came days after China’s Foreign Minister, Wang YI, demanded stricter action on cross-border gambling, calling the issue a critical matter of public safety. While Cambodia’s crackdown actions have been widely welcomed, concerns will grow again if the illegal activity has simply shifted locations instead of being stamped out entirely. Laos authorities stated they launched their raid after receiving intelligence that criminal groups had brought equipment into the country to run call centres and online gambling websites. The Thai nationals have been repatriated to their home country, and officials note they will be screened to confirm whether they were victims of human trafficking, a defining feature of scam centres across the region. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Jdigital, the Spanish online gambling trade association, has announced that its members fully endorse the decision to 'temporarily halt' the licensing of prediction markets. Yesterday, the official gazette of the Dirección General de Ordenación del Juego (DGOJ), Spain's gambling authority, revealed that it had initiated disciplinary reviews against the prediction market platforms Polymarket and Kalshi. Spain's gambling regulator has granted Kalshi and Polymarket a three-month and four-month period, respectively, to apply for a Spanish online gambling license. Access to both platforms has been suspended pending the approval of this process. It remains unclear whether Kalshi and Polymarket will comply with the DGOJ's request, which outlined the regulator's need to ascertain the offerings of prediction markets and how they differ from the gambling mechanics covered by standard licenses. At the core of this issue is a question that regulators globally are increasingly grappling with: what precisely constitutes a prediction market? The DGOJ asserts that "when consumers wager money on uncertain future events—be it elections, sporting results, or economic developments—the activity falls squarely within the country's gambling framework." The fact that operators market these products as event contracts or trading instruments does not change their legal classification under Spain's Gambling Act of 2011. Jdigital has welcomed the regulator's intervention, characterizing it as a crucial step in safeguarding both consumers and Spain's regulated gambling market. The association contended that platforms operating without licenses undermine a system where authorized operators are subject to extensive obligations, including identity verification, anti-money laundering controls, responsible gambling measures, and protections for minors and vulnerable individuals. "Players who access operators without a license are outside the scope of the policies and guarantees provided within the regulated market," the trade body stated. It further cautioned that consumers using unlicensed prediction market platforms lack access to the safeguards mandated for regulated operators, adding that "any citizen who accesses an unlicensed prediction market platform will not benefit from any of these guarantees." This dispute also highlights growing discontent within Europe's licensed gambling sector. Jdigital has consistently argued that regulated operators face escalating compliance costs, advertising restrictions, and consumer protection requirements, while offshore and unlicensed businesses can target customers with significantly less oversight. According to an EY report referenced by Jdigital, "one in four Spanish gamblers has used an unlicensed platform," a statistic used to support the argument that "Spanish authorities should intensify enforcement efforts against illegal operators." However, the broader struggle extends beyond Spain. Across Europe, regulators are intensifying their scrutiny of prediction market businesses, with France, Belgium, Germany, Portugal, Poland, and the Netherlands all taking action against operators attempting to offer event-based contracts without local authorization. Meanwhile, the British overseas territory of Gibraltar has already established a licensing framework for prediction market activities. Furthermore, last week, Malta indicated its intention to examine how prediction market platforms should be integrated into future regulatory structures. Domestically in the US, prediction markets are regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) as derivative products rather than gambling services. The sector has also garnered significant political support. This week, US President Donald Trump described prediction market platforms as vital to the future of the American economy, adding further momentum to an industry that has attracted billions of dollars in investment. For European regulators, however, the primary concern remains consumer protection and market integrity, rather than financial innovation. Spain's decision, therefore, signifies more than a national enforcement action. It serves as the latest indication that European authorities are unwilling to permit prediction markets to operate outside established gambling frameworks. For the time being, another major European jurisdiction has closed its doors to Polymarket and Kalshi. However, the conflict is unlikely to conclude here. For these high-stakes ventures, the next logical step will almost certainly be to lobby Brussels and national governments to recognize event contracts as financial derivatives rather than gambling products. This legal distinction could ultimately determine whether prediction markets evolve into a mainstream financial product in Europe or remain excluded from the continent's regulated markets. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - bet365 has enhanced its ongoing collaboration with Blueprint Gaming through a new free spins offer. New customers who meet the eligibility criteria for bet365 can now receive free spins on four of Blueprint's popular titles: Fishin’ Frenzy: Lure Em’ In, Fishin’ Frenzy: Big Catch Gold Spins, Triple Action Cash Strike, and King Kong Splash. According to bet365's website, players who register and deposit at least £10 will have the opportunity to select from three distinct options over a 20-day period, receiving either five, 10, 20, or 50 free spins on each occasion. Paul Cumbo, bet365 Head of Gaming for UK and Europe, stated: “Blueprint Gaming’s game selection continues to be very popular with our players, and we are pleased to feature some of its most well-known and successful games as part of this exciting new customer promotion. “This promotion highlights the strength of our long-standing relationship and our shared commitment to providing engaging entertainment experiences for players.” The ‘Fishin’ Frenzy’ series from Blueprint has consistently been a favourite among UK players, regularly appearing in bet365's monthly slot rankings. In April, Fishin’ Frenzy The Big Catch was the 5th most played game among bet365's players. Blueprint also reported that Fishin’ Frenzy: Lure Em’ In achieved a 'record-breaking opening weekend' following its release in April 2026. Blueprint described the new promotion as a testament to the 'enduring success' of their partnership with bet365, which commenced in 2023. Jo Purvis, Director of Marketing, PR and Events at Blueprint Gaming, added: “Our partnership with bet365 has grown stronger over several years, and this latest new customer offer is another excellent demonstration of our continued close collaboration. “Each of the chosen games has proven to be a top performer within our portfolio, whether due to high player retention, consistent revenue generation, or long-term brand recognition.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - There is growing pressure on the Kenyan government regarding proposals to introduce a 20% tax on winnings, which would overturn last year’s reduction of the rate to 5%. The gambling regulatory authority has appealed to the government to perform another about-face and discard these plans, arguing that they would be difficult to enforce and damaging to the sector. Less than a year ago, the withholding tax was lowered to 5%, with the tax applied upon a player's withdrawal from their betting account. Nevertheless, policymakers are currently aiming to restore the rate to 20% and apply it to winnings, excluding the player's initial stake. Additionally, such a swift reversal from the 5% rate would likely exacerbate tensions within the industry. This is further complicated by the fact that a 5% tax already applies to ‘all funds for gambling purposes’. The bill specifies: “Amount deposits means the total value of money or money’s worth paid, transferred or otherwise made available for betting or gambling purposes. Whether provided by a player or the operator, whether in cash or cash equivalents, whether or not such amount is held in an account operated by a player, operator or licensed person, or converted into chips, tokens, tickets, credits, or similar instruments.” A continuous struggle has persisted within the country, and the regulator's recent direct address to the National Assembly’s Committee on Finance and National Planning in Nairobi has only served to intensify this conflict. The regulator is also pushing back against the suggested definition of winnings, warning that it would create significant confusion in the market regarding how gambling is taxed. In particular, they stressed that the 20% withholding tax on winnings from prize competitions and short-term lotteries should be abandoned, as it is deemed unnecessary and unworkable for the market. Specifically, the authority raised the issue of how the tax would be collected if the prize awarded is a physical item, like a car or washing machine, rather than a cash sum. The organization also pointed out that tax revenue has actually grown under the 5% system, in contrast to the previous period when the withholding tax was 20%. The core reason for the call to pause is the need for tax simplification, as the current proposed framework is missing the clarity and nuance needed for such a complicated sector. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Manchester United appears poised to strengthen its links to the gambling industry, as a high-value deal with Betway propels the relationship between football and gambling into a new era. This week, reports have surfaced of a £20m trainingwear sponsorship agreement with Betway—likely the most landmark deal since the Premier League’s voluntary front-of-shirt sponsorship ban. While the Daily Mail noted this agreement would be among the most lucrative of its kind in global football, it replaces a similarly valued partnership with blockchain firm Tezos, which concluded in June 2025 and was reported to be worth £25m annually. Some had previously expected alternative sponsorship costs to rise due to the ban. However, this latest deal suggests market values will stay at previous levels, largely dependent on a club’s profile. Manchester United already has existing agreements with several betting companies, and this deal only deepens the club’s ties to the industry. Parimatch signed a multi-year partnership in August 2025 to become the club’s betting partner for the Asia and MENA regions. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Jockey Club and Betfred are also listed as regional partners on Manchester United’s website. With the front-of-shirt ban leaving a reported £80m sponsorship gap, clubs are now exploring alternative ways to tap into the gambling industry’s substantial market spend. Fellow Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur has had BetMGM as its trainingwear sponsor for several years, while restrictions do not apply to other areas like shirt sleeves and sponsor hoardings. Though conventional wisdom holds the front-of-shirt sponsor is the most prominent, the age of social media means players are arguably seen more often in trainingwear than in their playing kits. Teams worldwide release hours of training ground content daily across social media. Meanwhile, Manchester United players warming up before and during games will undoubtedly display the Betway logo when captured by TV cameras. The scale of this deal is unique to a club of Manchester United’s size, which remains one of the most recognizable brands globally despite a torrid few seasons on the pitch. Social media content and training videos from Manchester United will be viewed millions of times, adding major value to the Betway deal. In comparison, Tottenham’s deal with BetMGM is rumored to be worth £10m. Meanwhile, Liverpool’s contract with AXA is also valued at over £20m annually—though this includes training ground naming rights as well as training kit branding. Lower-ranked, less high-profile clubs will not be able to command such fees. However, there is no doubt similar deals with the gambling industry are being considered to mitigate the ban’s impact and bring in much-needed revenue. On the prospect of sleeve sponsorship, Russel Yershon, Director at Connecting Brands, told Insider Sport: “The natural fit for betting operators will be to move their branding to the sleeve of Premier League clubs. This commercial asset is available for betting operators, and I would imagine up to half of the Premier League clubs will look to have a betting brand on their sleeve.” As a result, this move raises the question: Is the league’s ban simply a token gesture that shifts gambling brands to other areas like training wear, or will it have a real impact on the sector’s visibility throughout the Premier League? This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Rush Street Interactive has submitted an application for a Designated Contract Market license, opening up a potential path for the parent company of BetRivers and PlaySugarHouse to enter the U.S. prediction markets space. Good to Know RSI submitted its DCM license application to the CFTC. Richard Schwartz played down the significance of prediction markets back in February. This application provides RSI with flexible options, rather than representing a confirmed launch roadmap. For months, Rush Street Interactive has kept prediction markets at arm's length. Now the firm has taken the first official regulatory step required to operate an event contract exchange within the United States. A DCM license would allow RSI to run a federally supervised prediction market. However, the application does not obligate the company to construct an exchange, acquire an existing one, or roll out a product. It may simply provide RSI with the flexibility to move forward at a later date should the regulatory landscape become more defined. RSI Falls Between Two Factions in the Gambling Industry This application puts RSI in an awkward position. DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics have already expressed interest in prediction markets, in part because their business models are rooted in large-scale digital operations. MGM Resorts and Caesars have taken a more cautious approach, as their land-based casino licenses and existing relationships with state regulators expose them to additional risk.RSI falls right between these two groups. It was spun off as an independent digital business in 2020, though the Rush Street brand remains closely associated with Rush Street Gaming and the Rivers casino portfolio. This middle ground makes the application even more notable. Back in February, CEO Richard Schwartz told analysts that prediction markets were not a top priority and were not a core part of the company's sports betting offering. That said, he also noted that RSI was "continuously evaluating" the space and could leverage its existing technology for the segment if it made sense to do so. That potential pathway is now open to the company. Susquehanna analyst Joseph Stauff has posited that the application may be a move to keep options open, rather than a concrete decision to launch. This lines up with the low-commitment nature of a CFTC application, especially when compared to the costs of securing iGaming or sportsbook licenses on a state-by-state basis. Investors have not shown a strong reaction to the news. RSI's share price is down 3.5% week-over-week, but remains up 9.8% month-over-month. Over the last 12 months, the company's stock has more than doubled in value, while DraftKings' share price has dropped 29% over the same period.Regulatory risk remains a key concern. A number of state gambling regulators have warned operators that engaging in prediction market activity could put their casino licenses at risk. Nevada's regulators issued that exact warning in October, and the broader debate over sports event contracts remains unresolved. RSI now has a clear choice to make. It can hold onto the application as a safeguard, or it can follow its digital competitors into the prediction markets space. Either way, it appears BetRivers is no longer satisfied with observing the segment from the sidelines. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Caesars Entertainment has reached an agreement to be acquired by Fertitta Entertainment in an all-cash deal valued at $17.6 billion. The transaction encompasses $11.9 billion in debt, Caesars' casino properties, and its online and retail sportsbook operations. Good to Know Fertitta Entertainment will provide Caesars shareholders with $31 in cash for every outstanding share. The agreement encompasses 53 hotel-casino properties and the Caesars sportsbook operations. Caesars executives, including Tom Reeg, Bret Yunker, and Anthony Carano, are anticipated to remain in their positions. Tilman Fertitta has secured a deal for one of the most prominent casino groups in the United States. Fertitta Entertainment, which already has ties to Golden Nugget, the Houston Rockets, and multiple restaurant chains, will take Caesars private pending shareholder and regulatory approval. The $31-per-share offer represents a 49% premium over Caesars' unaffected share price from February 25. The Carano family, which holds approximately 5% of Caesars shares, will retain a portion of its investment in the new entity. Caesars Deal Brings Casinos And Sports Betting Under Fertitta Caesars provides Fertitta Entertainment with an extensive U.S. casino portfolio, a flagship Las Vegas Strip brand, and a nationwide digital gaming business. The company runs 53 hotel-casino properties, and Caesars Sportsbook provides mobile betting in over 20 U.S. states.The digital assets also offer Fertitta scale beyond physical locations. Caesars' online sportsbook and iGaming offerings will be combined with the Golden Nugget digital platform, granting the acquirer a more substantial online presence in the U.S. sports betting and online casino sectors. Caesars stated that its existing leadership team will continue following the deal's closure. CEO Tom Reeg, CFO Bret Yunker, President and COO Anthony Carano, and other top executives are expected to retain their roles. The companies had previously considered a combination. Discussions were reported in February, and a potential merger was also explored in 2018. Caesars presented the sale as a direct cash benefit for investors following a prolonged decline in its stock price. Caesars shares increased roughly 1.5% on Thursday morning after the agreement was announced, despite the stock losing nearly 70% of its value over the last five years.“The Board of Directors of Caesars Entertainment has approved the transaction and recommends that Caesars shareholders adopt and approve the merger agreement,” the company stated. “The Board, after detailed consideration with the assistance of its outside financial and legal advisors, determined that the immediate cash premium offered by this transaction is compelling for Caesars shareholders, and its approval of this transaction underscores its commitment to drive and deliver value for shareholders.” Upon completion, Caesars common stock will be delisted from the NASDAQ. The companies announced the combined network will feature 60 casino resorts within the Caesars Rewards program, offering guests more destinations within the expanded casino and hospitality group. “Together, Caesars and Fertitta Entertainment have a shared commitment to operational excellence, customer service, and disciplined growth, with employees and guests remaining at the heart of the business,” Caesars said in its release. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - According to a new study by XY Legal Solutions B.V. and VNLOK, a significant volume of illicit online gambling advertisements were seen by Dutch users on Facebook and Instagram in March 2026. The analysis utilized data from the Meta Ad Library and concentrated on gambling-related search terms in the Dutch language. Good to Know In March 2026, researchers detected 15,114 unlawful gambling advertisements. These advertisements directed users to 1,292 distinct URLs and originated from 2,210 Facebook pages. Meta's estimated advertising earnings for the month were between €606,551 and €1.14 million. The investigation examined ads associated with terms like “gokkast,” “gratis spins,” “welkomstbonus,” and “Holland Casino.” Advertisements were deemed illegal if they promoted operators lacking a license from the Kansspelautoriteit. The reported audience reach for the March sample was 37.9 million Dutch users. Assuming an average of two views per user, the study's authors calculated approximately 75.8 million impressions during the month. Young Adults Became A Key Target While Dutch advertising regulations prohibit licensed operators from targeting individuals under 24, unlicensed operators seemed to focus precisely on that demographic. The report indicates that 65.4% of the illegal ads targeted users below the age of 24.Data from March showed 5.8 million impressions within the 18 to 24 age bracket. Projected over a year, this would amount to roughly 71 million impressions for that group. An independent study released earlier in May also concluded that Dutch gambling ads on social media, including those from licensed operators, had been viewed by users under 24. The KSA had previously highlighted the extent of the issue. In April, the regulator submitted over 4,600 reports to Meta concerning illegal gambling promotions on its platforms. The KSA's 2025 reporting further estimated that broader social media channels hosted about 50,000 illegal gambling ads monthly in the preceding year. Meta did take action to remove some content during the research period, with about 38.3% of the identified ads being disabled or deleted. Nonetheless, the report noted that new advertisements were being created more rapidly than existing ones were being taken down. To evade enforcement, operators employed brief advertising campaigns. The median campaign duration was three days, and 93% ran for fewer than 14 days. Some ads funneled users via app-store links before redirecting to unlicensed gambling websites. Others impersonated established Dutch brands or utilized fabricated testimonial accounts.The study also projected potential revenue for Meta from these ads. Applying public CPM benchmarks for the Netherlands, the estimated March revenue was €606,551 at an €8 CPM, €834,008 at an €11 CPM, and €1.14 million at a €15 CPM. Annually, this would translate to between €7.3 million and €13.6 million, though the report described these figures as indicative since Meta does not disclose internal revenue data for this advertising category. The research underscores an uneven playing field for licensed gambling operators in the Netherlands. Legal companies must adhere to stringent rules regarding broad advertising and younger viewers, while unlicensed operators persistently purchase audience reach on social media. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The UK Advertising Standards Authority has instructed Cyan Blue Odds Ltd, operating as Oddschecker, to refrain from republishing two Instagram posts containing betting references that featured Harry Kane and Erling Haaland. Key Highlights ASA upheld complaints regarding two Instagram posts from OddscheckerTV dated November 2025. The regulator determined that Kane and Haaland hold significant appeal to individuals under 18 within the context of gambling-related material. A distinct Betway post featuring Thierry Henry was found not to violate the same regulations. This decision serves as a stark reminder to UK gambling affiliates that social media posts may be classified as advertisements even if a company labels them as editorial content. The ASA noted that the Oddschecker posts were published on an account managed by Oddschecker, contained betting statistics, and directed users toward gambling services. Footballer Posts Do Not Meet ASA Standards One post from OddscheckerTV displayed England captain Harry Kane alongside the text: “Harry Kane is the most backed player to win the Ballon d’Or in 2026 (32% of bets)”. Another post showcased Erling Haaland with the caption: “Norway are the most backed to win 2026 WC”. This post also mentioned improved prices and shorter odds offered by specific bookmakers.A researcher from the University of Bristol contested the posts, asserting that prominent footballers featured in gambling content are likely to strongly attract those under 18. After examining the content and Instagram's access restrictions, the ASA concurred. Oddschecker contended that the posts constituted editorial commentary rather than direct advertisements. The firm also highlighted an 18+ restriction on the OddscheckerTV account and a profile biography characterizing the content as intended for adults. Nevertheless, the ASA determined that these protective measures were inadequate. The regulator referenced Ofcom statistics indicating that 52% of 13 to 15-year-olds and 76% of 16 to 17-year-olds are regular Instagram users. It further noted that many young users provide false ages, and platform checks do not consistently prevent access by minors. Additionally, the regulator dismissed the argument that the posts fell outside the scope of gambling advertising regulations. Because they referenced betting volumes, bookmaker odds, and Oddschecker services, the ASA classified them as marketing communications under the CAP Code.The ASA concluded that the posts violated social responsibility clauses and ordered Oddschecker to discontinue their use in their current format. It also cautioned the company against featuring individuals or characters with strong appeal to minors in future gambling advertisements. Complaint Regarding Betway’s Thierry Henry Post Dismissed Conversely, Betway faced no regulatory action regarding an Instagram post involving Thierry Henry. The post advertised an interview with Henry, Betway’s global ambassador, and displayed Betway branding, responsible gambling logos, an 18+ badge, and a reference to GambleAware. Betway asserted that Henry primarily appeals to an older demographic of football fans. Having retired from professional play some time ago, he now works predominantly as a pundit, including for CBS Sports in the United States. The company also provided evidence demonstrating a low count of UK-based Instagram followers under the age of 18. The ASA accepted this reasoning. While acknowledging Henry’s substantial general profile, the regulator noted that his current media role and limited following among UK youth implied he was unlikely to possess strong appeal to under-18s according to CAP guidance. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Between June 26 and July 10, 2026, Arizona will be accepting applications for new event wagering licenses, providing sportsbook operators a fresh opportunity to join a market that has seen the departure of multiple brands since its inception. Good to Know The sports betting framework in Arizona provides for a total of 20 event wagering licenses. These are split evenly, with 10 licenses allocated to tribal partners and 10 to Arizona sports franchise partners. The upcoming application period is scheduled for June 26 through July 10. Opportunities for new sportsbook operators have emerged in Arizona. Following a period where several companies exited the state as part of a broader contraction within the U.S. sports betting sector, the Arizona Department of Gaming is reopening the licensing process. When sports betting was legalized in 2021, the state established 20 event wagering licenses, dividing them equally between those partnered with state tribes and those affiliated with Arizona sports franchises. Vacant Licenses Put Arizona Back In Play With only 14 licenses currently active, Arizona has vacancies available. Following a previous application window in 2024, regulators are now preparing to evaluate a new group of applicants.“As the state regulator, we remain dedicated to consumer protection and a thorough licensing review process,” stated Cliff Holden, assistant director of certification and licensing for the Department of Gaming. “We look forward to receiving new applications for regulated event wagering.” These openings come after a period of industry-wide consolidation. Brands including Betfred, SuperBook Sports, Betway, Fubo Sportsbooks, TwinSpires, Unibet, and WynnBet have all ceased operations in Arizona, with many of these also exiting other U.S. markets. In a separate case, SaharaBets exited the market after losing its sports franchise affiliation following the relocation of the NHL team formerly known as the Arizona Coyotes to Utah. Despite the reduction in the number of active licensees, Arizona remains home to major national sportsbooks such as DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, bet365, and Fanatics, ensuring that any new entrant will face a highly competitive environment.Nevertheless, securing a license does not ensure success. New operators will encounter significant challenges, including substantial customer acquisition expenses, competition from well-funded incumbents, and a broader U.S. betting landscape that is increasingly shifting focus toward prediction markets. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Eilers & Krejcik Gaming anticipates that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will generate a significantly larger U.S. online betting market compared to the 2022 tournament, driven by an increased number of matches, favorable North American time zones, and heightened mainstream interest in soccer wagering. Good to Know EKG forecasts wagers totaling $2.82 billion for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. A strong performance by Team USA could drive the handle to nearly $4 billion. Conversely, an early elimination for the U.S. might reduce betting volume to slightly above $2.3 billion. Scheduled from June 11 to July 19 across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, the 2026 FIFA World Cup is expected by EKG to yield a betting handle of $2.82 billion. This figure significantly surpasses the $900 million to $1 billion estimated for the 2022 World Cup. Compared to the upper limit of the 2022 range, the 2026 projection represents an 182% surge in U.S. online World Cup betting. The expansion of the tournament format accounts for much of this growth, with the number of teams increasing from 32 to 48 and the total matches rising from 64 to 104. Team USA Performance May Determine Final Betting Totals EKG does not regard the $2.82 billion forecast as fixed. The performance of Team USA could adjust these figures in either direction, particularly given that the tournament is taking place partly on home turf.“Our forecast comes with wide error bars because of the impact of a potential run from the U.S. Men’s National Team, but our base case assumes they advance from the group stage before exiting in either the Round of 32 or Round of 16,” EKG noted in its report. An extended run by Team USA would likely stimulate more casual wagering, increased in-play betting, and greater engagement from U.S. sportsbooks. EKG indicated that in such a scenario, the handle could approach $4 billion. On the other hand, a brief tournament appearance could diminish that potential. An early exit might result in a total betting handle of just over $2.3 billion. While Team USA advanced to the Round of 16 in the 2022 World Cup, the squad has also failed to progress past the group stage on three occasions since 1990. For sportsbook operators, the expanded FIFA World Cup offers an extended betting schedule, a wider array of soccer markets, and additional opportunities to attract casual bettors. Nevertheless, EKG identifies Team USA's performance as the most significant variable influencing U.S. World Cup betting handle. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Puerto Rico is set to join the National Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program (NVSEP), enhancing protections for individuals seeking assistance within the gambling industry. This initiative is a collaboration between the Puerto Rico Gaming Commission and idPair, a U.S. technology firm specializing in responsible gambling and the operator of the NVSEP. According to a statement released via Business Wire, the program is scheduled to launch in June of this year. Through this system, eligible individuals in Puerto Rico will have the option to voluntarily register for self-exclusion, thereby blocking their access to gambling operators and platforms across various jurisdictions. The Puerto Rico Gaming Commission's decision to participate in the NVSEP is a component of its broader strategy to modernize sector oversight, with a particular emphasis on consumer protection and the reinforcement of responsible gambling practices in areas such as casinos, sports betting, and other regulated gaming activities. Jonathan Aiwazian, CEO of idPair, commented: “Puerto Rico has cultivated one of the most dynamic and rapidly expanding gaming markets in the region, bolstered by strong leadership and a vibrant culture that makes it a truly unique location. We are honored to support the Gaming Commission in broadening access to responsible gambling protections, and we anticipate simplifying the self-exclusion process for users while simultaneously streamlining operations for gaming providers.” In parallel, Juan Carlos Santaella Marchán, Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Gaming Commission, highlighted: “This partnership reinforces our public policy objectives to maintain a secure and highly regulated gaming industry grounded in responsible gambling principles. Our consistent aim has been to provide accessible tools and resources for anyone seeking support for gambling-related issues.” He further stated: “This initiative is in line with the efforts undertaken since I assumed office, as well as our ongoing educational campaign on responsible gambling. We reaffirm our commitment to Puerto Rico once again.” To participate in the self-exclusion program, individuals will need to complete an online registration process. Subsequently, operators will receive exclusion data via idPair’s platform, aiding them in meeting their regulatory compliance obligations. The National Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program was developed to simplify a process that has historically been fragmented. Rather than requiring separate registrations across multiple systems, the NVSEP offers a centralized and secure registry, thereby improving accessibility to responsible gambling protection tools. Puerto Rico advances with the review of Senate Bill 960 Earlier this week, the Puerto Rico Senate announced that its Treasury, Budget, and PROMESA Committee conducted an on-site inspection of Casino Metro's operations as part of its evaluation of Senate Bill 960, a legislative proposal aimed at expanding the types of gambling permitted on the island. The inspection visit was led by Senator Migdalia Padilla Alvelo and included participation from officials of the Gaming Commission, representatives from the tourism sector, and executives from the casino itself, all of whom toured the facilities. During the visit, legislators assessed the operational, technological, and security aspects of the casino. This review is occurring as the proposed legislation considers new gambling formats, such as poker in standalone gaming halls, digital sports betting, esports betting, and electronic lotteries, alongside enhanced regulatory controls. Both government officials and industry stakeholders expressed concerns regarding the bill's scope, cautioning about potential repercussions on the current market structure, existing regulations, and the possible reallocation of revenue within Puerto Rico’s gaming sector. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The reappearance of BloxFlip, an external website facilitating Robux gambling, is anticipated to provoke strong disapproval, reigniting scrutiny over the accessibility of unregulated operators. Last year, Roblox faced significant public criticism following allegations by Sky News that underage individuals could access unlicensed casinos through its platform. Players were able to log into these external sites using their Roblox credentials. The Sky News report led to the shutdown and closure of numerous websites, prompted by an urgent inquiry from the Gambling Commission. Among these was BloxFlip, which at one point was the most prominent gambling platform associated with the Roblox game. Bloxgame was subsequently established by the same group but did not achieve the same level of success as BloxFlip. At the time, a co-owner of Bloxflip stated in a chatroom: “The legal team representing Roblox has begun to apply pressure compelling us to close our platform.” Roblox has once again drawn criticism, however, as Sky News has reported that BloxFlip is reportedly making a comeback after being acquired by new owners, with plans to operate similarly to its previous iteration but with added gameplay features. The site is also promoting the same types of games as before, including Mines, Crash, Plinko, Cases, Blackjack, and Slots. Roblox communicated to Sky News that it ‘firmly prohibits all simulated and actual gambling activities on our platform, and players are prohibited from engaging in off-platform secondary-market transactions for Roblox items or Robux’. The company further stated: “Websites like these are in no way endorsed or authorised by Roblox and we take numerous steps to disrupt their activity, taking action against associated accounts as well as filtering out references to these sites across our platform. “The majority of the sites identified are not currently available in the UK, and in some cases their websites indicate they are in the process of ceasing operations,” a spokesperson for the company commented. “We will continue to pursue the owners and operators of unauthorised sites, and stand ready to support law enforcement or the UK Gambling Commission in their efforts to have web hosting providers shut sites like these down.” Roblox's ability to completely prevent these sites from accessing its user base is somewhat limited, necessitating collaboration with the Commission, social media platforms, and major tech companies to achieve success. The return of the Robux gambling platform is likely to intensify the ongoing debate regarding enhanced measures to combat the proliferation of unlicensed casinos targeting younger audiences. One such avenue involves streaming platforms like YouTube, Discord, and Kick, all of which host significant Roblox communities and could potentially be exploited to engage younger audiences. The UK is currently focusing on the digital engagement of younger generations. An iGaming Expert piece has cautioned that as Prime Minister Keir Starmer actively pursues a social media ban for individuals under 16, their vulnerability increases concerning other harmful sites that promote unlicensed betting platforms. This underscores the importance of a broader strategy for digital prohibition in the context of evolving platforms and streaming landscapes. Banning social media for under-16s will not lead to a resurgence of outdoor activities like playing tag, as seen in the 90s; their attention will remain highly susceptible within the online ecosystem. Governments and policymakers should remain vigilant of predatory sites that may capitalize on this newly available attention. When opportunities arise, regardless of their ethical implications, the black market will exploit them, and the resurgence of Bloxflip serves as another illustration of this. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Digitain has achieved a ‘significant milestone’ in its European expansion strategy following approval for the Danish market. This approval from the Danish regulator will now allow the company to provide its live games to operators throughout the market. Digitain highlighted the decision as a testament to its dedication to adhering to international regulatory standards, particularly given Denmark's standing as one of Europe's most strictly regulated gaming markets. Arshak Muradyan, Group Chief Compliance Officer at Digitain, stated: “Obtaining the Denmark licence represents another important milestone in Digitain’s regulatory expansion journey and reflects our long-term commitment to operating within highly regulated markets. “Denmark is recognised for its strong compliance standards and mature gaming ecosystem, making this achievement particularly significant for our continued European growth strategy. We are proud to begin building new partnerships in the market and bringing our live gaming solutions to Danish operators.” Digitain is entering a market that continues to experience growth, with data from the Danish Gambling Authority indicating a 14.9% year-on-year increase in revenue, reaching DKK 731m (£84.8m) in March 2026. More than half of this revenue, DKK 384m (£44.5m), was generated by the online casino sector, while sports betting contributed an additional DKK 217m (£25.2m). Gaming machines and land-based bingo accounted for DKK 96m (£11.1m) and DKK 3m (£347,962), respectively. European expansion continues This year, the company has also secured similar approvals in Ontario, the Isle of Man, the UK, and Bulgaria. The Bulgarian approval, in particular, included a manufacturer and importer licence, enabling Digitain to supply both its in-house developed games and third-party products within the Balkan nation. Muradyan commented on the Bulgarian announcement: “Securing both licences in Bulgaria is an important step in strengthening our presence in regulated markets. This dual capability ensures that our partners can confidently operate and scale in the Bulgarian market with a reliable and fully compliant product offering.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Fertitta Entertainment is moving closer to finalizing its significant acquisition of Caesars, as the two companies have reached a ‘definitive agreement’ for a transaction estimated to be worth $17.6 billion. Speculation began in February that Tilman Fertitta, the billionaire owner of Fertitta Entertainment, had expressed interest in acquiring one of the most recognizable entities on the Las Vegas Strip. It has now been confirmed that Fertitta Entertainment will purchase each outstanding Caesars share for $31 in cash and will also assume approximately $11.9 billion of Caesars’ existing debt. The transaction will be funded through equity from Fertitta Entertainment and new debt financing secured from a consortium of 10 banks. According to a statement released by Fertitta Entertainment, the $31 per share offer represents a premium of nearly 50% compared to Caesars’ share price before any rumors of a potential takeover emerged. Caesars stated that Fertitta Entertainment possesses a ‘proven operating model with a track record of successfully integrating and growing leading hospitality and entertainment businesses.’ Fertitta, in turn, described the acquisition as uniting ‘two iconic and highly complementary platforms.’ Fertitta already owns Golden Nugget Casino and Landry’s. This acquisition will add Caesars’ extensive portfolio, which includes over 50 casinos, eight of which are located in Las Vegas, along with its online sports betting and iGaming operations. In recent years, Caesars’ financial performance has been impacted by a decline in tourism to Las Vegas. However, the company reported a ‘solid’ start to 2026 in April, with net revenue increasing by 2.7% year-on-year to $2.9 billion. Caesars’ Chief Executive Officer, Tom Reeg, Chief Financial Officer, Bret Yunker, and President and Chief Operating Officer, Anthony Carano, are expected to retain their positions within the newly combined company. Other members of the corporate and property-level management teams will also continue in their roles. The $31-a-share offer has received approval from Caesars’ Board of Directors, who are now recommending that shareholders vote in favor of the acquisition. However, a ‘go-shop’ period is in effect until July 11, during which Caesars and its advisors will have the opportunity to consider alternative acquisition proposals. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Issue 40 of SBC Leaders magazine hits stands today, showcasing conversations with top executives from Fanatics, bet365, Hard Rock, FanDuel, DraftKings, Betsson, Apuesta Total, and Allwyn. Developing a standout product that resonates with sports fans is crucial for building a strong sportsbook brand, according to Selena Kalvaria, Chief Marketing Officer of Fanatics Betting & Gaming, in an interview with the latest issue of SBC Leaders magazine. In the cover story, Kalvaria explains why she left a successful high fashion career for the sports betting industry and shares what she discovered after making the switch. Fanatics is a household name among U.S. sports fans, thanks to its extensive replica sportswear and merchandise division—and that unmatched reputation was initially what drew Kalvaria to the role. Since joining the company, she has learned that the brand’s name would hold little value for bettors if the online gambling team hadn’t followed the clothing division’s lead and adopted a fan-first approach to product development. Its Fair Play injury refund feature was so popular with customers that rival sportsbooks copied it, while FanCash recreates the engagement of retail loyalty schemes for the betting audience. “You have to build an incredible product and proposition that people care about and the team that pre-existed me here was exceptional in the pursuit of having the best product in the market,” Kalvaria says. “With the integration of FanCash and what’s become core to our positioning in Fair Play and the connected ecosystem and loyalty program, we relentlessly enhance the customer and fan experience. That’s what Fanatics exists to do.” In the same cover feature, Fanatics Chief Trading Officer Mark Hughes notes that in a competitive market with well-established rivals, having the right product can help to “give customers zero reason to leave”. While he acknowledges those competitors have “some really good stuff”, Hughes is confident his team has got their product right. “We’re at a phase where the product is very high quality, the loyalty scheme runs throughout all channels, we have tenured customers who are really sticky,” says Hughes. “It’s all come together. We get a lot of feedback from customers now saying, ‘I joined because of FanCash but your product is as good as FanDuel or DraftKings’.” No One Predicts an Apocalypse for Sportsbooks A key part of Hughes’s job is to create “reasons for customers to switch and to stay”, and as a U.S. operator, that means working to attract prediction market players. However, even though Fanatics has launched its own Fanatics Markets offering, Hughes doesn’t expect platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket to compete with licensed sportsbooks long-term. “The product breadth will be hard to match. If it plays out in a way where there’s a parlay product and margins and generosity can be high, maybe it will compete,” he says. “But without that, I don’t really see them as the same product, even if they look and feel very similar to a customer. I struggle to see it cannibalising too significantly in states where sports betting is allowed.” This view is echoed elsewhere in the magazine by James Cooper, Senior Vice President of FanDuel’s Flywheel & New Ventures division—focused on identifying and launching new high-growth products. One such product is FanDuel Predicts, which has helped expand the operator’s total addressable market into states like California and Texas, where legal sports betting isn’t widely available. Despite being directly involved in launching one, Cooper doesn’t expect prediction markets to harm the legal sports betting industry significantly. “We don’t see the sportsbook ecosystem as outdated at all, and it continues to be our north star,” he says. “Sports betting remains the most direct and established way for fans to engage with sports outcomes, particularly in regulated markets with strong consumer protections and meaningful benefits to states.” The magazine also features IMGL President Marc Dunbar evaluating the dispute around the legal status of prediction markets. bet365 Sets Sights on U.S. Top Spot While prediction markets have dominated headlines, bet365’s growth in the U.S. over the past 12 months has been under-reported. The UK-based operator initially took a cautious approach to the U.S. but, unlike many European peers that spent heavily during the post-PASPA gold rush, it’s now starting to thrive. It has become a top-five operator in many of the 17 states it operates in—something Trip Stoddard, Head of Business Development for North America, attributes to its investment in localisation and technology. Stoddard is happy with recent progress, but no one should expect the company to be content with its current position chasing FanDuel and DraftKings. “If you look at bet365’s history, you look at everything we’ve done globally, we don’t go to markets where we’re happy with the top five. We don’t go to markets where we’re happy with the top three,” he says. Stoddard adds: “We’re here to be number one. There’s clearly a top two. We’re watching them, but we’re tailoring our product and our marketing to (a point) where we don’t just think we can compete with them. I’m comfortable saying we think we can beat them.” A Tour of the Global Betting Landscape SBC Leaders issue 40 also includes interviews with Steph Sherman, Chief Marketing Officer at DraftKings, about customer acquisition during the World Cup, and Betsson’s Chief Information Security Officer Donald Tabone about cybercriminal threats to operators. Meanwhile, Hard Rock Digital Chairman Rafi Ashkenazi reflects on his gambling career, Allwyn’s Group CFO Kenneth Morton shares insider insights on the OPAP merger, and Apuesta Total CEO Gonzalo Perez discusses the Peruvian market. Additionally, there’s a deep dive into Latin America’s emerging market opportunities and an examination of why industry lobbying efforts keep falling flat. You can pick up a copy of issue 40 of SBC Leaders magazine at SBC Summit Americas in Fort Lauderdale in June, or read the digital edition here. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Bally’s Intralot CEO Robeson Reeves has cautioned that high-spending players have effectively exited the regulated UK sector, even as he outlined the operator’s strategy for future growth in the region. During the company’s first-quarter earnings call, executives also hinted at significant progress regarding their ongoing interest in acquiring evoke, with Reeves promising further updates in the near future. He told investors: “I will stick to what has already been disclosed publicly, but I encourage you to consider this alongside our upcoming commentary on our margins, platform capabilities, operational history, and cash flow. The strategic logic is clear.” The discussions between Bally’s Intralot and evoke are taking place against a backdrop of major shifts in the UK market, driven by a rise in remote gaming duty from 21% to 40% and the introduction of financial risk assessments, commonly referred to as affordability checks. While much of the sector has voiced strong opposition to these affordability checks, fearing they could damage the market, Reeves noted that they pose little threat to Bally’s Intralot. He stated: “Our platform was designed with this [affordability] in mind from the start, because if customers can afford to play, they can play sustainably over the long term. “When you examine our retention rates and stable growth, it’s clear that our expansion is driven by acquiring new customers on top of our existing base. Consequently, I don’t view affordability measures as a major risk, as our player base remains consistent and stable.” Bally’s Intralot reported a 10.5% increase in UK online revenue for Q1 2026, with preliminary data indicating similar growth trends for April and May. Although many critics of the tax hikes and affordability mandates argue that these measures will drive players toward the black market, Reeves holds a different perspective, asserting that the UK’s "big spenders" have already left the regulated space. He explained: “Over the last five years, the UK has fostered a more sustainable spending environment for the mass market. Therefore, I don’t anticipate a significant shift in market size due to the black market, as high-value players have already migrated there. “People often compare the UK market to regions like the Netherlands, which saw a rapid increase in channelisation. However, there is a fundamental difference here.” Market consolidation already underway Looking forward, Reeves noted that the company is entering this period of transition in the UK from a "position of strength," a point underscored by its pursuit of evoke. Last month, Bally’s Intralot announced it was considering an offer for the entire issued and to-be-issued share capital of evoke at 50p per share, valuing the company at approximately £225m. Reeves and CFO Andreas Chrysos declined to provide further details on the potential acquisition, other than confirming that more information would be shared shortly. At the time, the company stated that acquiring evoke could "deliver substantial strategic and operational synergies, including enhanced scale, an expanded geographic footprint, and opportunities for cost efficiencies." The initial deadline for Bally’s Intralot to confirm its intention to proceed with the acquisition was 18 May, but this has since been extended to 17:00 BST on 8 June. Reeves added that further changes are expected in the UK as the industry adjusts to the financial burden of the increased remote gaming duty. He explained: “For other iGaming operators, this represents a 19% change. Since most of these operators have profit margins below 19%, their behavior will inevitably shift. They will lack the budget for marketing, so I expect to see changes in how operators function. “Companies are also scaling back on incentives and promotions. We are clearly witnessing the beginning of industry consolidation.” Overall, Bally’s Intralot reported a major performance turnaround in Q1 compared to the previous year, with revenue rising 180.5% year-on-year to €268.1m, and EBITDA climbing to €100.1m from €30.2m in 2025. These results were largely fueled by the acquisition of Bally’s International Interactive in October 2025, which contributed €183.9m in revenue and €72.7m in EBITDA during the quarter. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - With the majority of Canadian players now gaming on their smartphones, mobile casino apps have become a major battleground in the iGaming sector. Because countless operators guarantee fast speeds, robust security, and smooth performance, identifying the apps that truly deliver has become increasingly challenging for users. To help players navigate the mobile casino landscape, we sat down with Martin Backhouse, an iGaming industry veteran with over 15 years of experience. Currently a Content Editor at Casino.org, Backhouse is dedicated to providing players with top-tier advice. As a passionate casino enthusiast, he excels at identifying premier games and platforms, understanding precisely what Canadian players are looking for. To start off, is a dedicated online casino app actually necessary for mobile play? Technically, an app isn't mandatory for mobile gaming, though it certainly enhances the experience. Playing directly through a mobile browser is a perfectly viable option with its own advantages. For example, it allows for instant play without downloads and grants access to the complete game library found on the desktop site. Many players choose browser-based play simply to conserve storage space and data on their phones. For my own mobile gaming, I lean toward using dedicated apps. They generally offer a faster, more convenient experience, especially since you can remain logged in. A high-quality app provides a highly optimized interface, making it much simpler to browse games, claim promotions, and manage transactions. Additionally, the visual graphics usually appear much sharper. What key factors do you consider when selecting a mobile casino app? Image: Casino.org Just like choosing a standard online casino website, selecting the right app requires evaluating several factors. Safety and security are my absolute top priorities. Before registering an account, I verify that the operator holds a legitimate gaming license and utilizes advanced encryption to safeguard personal data. To ensure game fairness, I also look for eCOGRA certification. User convenience is another crucial element. I look for an intuitive, fast-loading app that features a diverse selection of games from leading software providers, alongside secure payment methods. Furthermore, I look for valuable promotions that extend beyond the initial welcome bonus, such as ongoing loyalty rewards and monthly tournaments. How can players locate the top-rated mobile casino apps? Finding a reliable app can be time-consuming without proper guidance. Consulting player forums and expert review platforms is highly recommended to see what others are saying. This approach saves time, helps you avoid untrustworthy sites, and ensures you maximize your bankroll. At Casino.org, our goal is to equip our audience with the necessary insights for an optimal gaming experience. We aim to give players an advantage in identifying great promotions while avoiding fraudulent sites. Because of this, our reviews and guides remain entirely objective and straight to the point. When it comes to casino apps, does iOS or Android offer a better experience? “While it ultimately comes down to individual preference, I personally favor iOS. Apple's App Store seamlessly hosts fully licensed, real-money betting applications. Conversely, Android users frequently face challenges with inconsistent availability on the Play Store and the need for APK sideloading. Apple also excels in providing smooth transaction processes. Users report rapid deposit and withdrawal times, with Face ID integration offering a quick and secure login. Furthermore, iPhone apps generally perform better due to Metal-optimized graphics, resulting in quicker load times and fewer system crashes. That said, some Android users appreciate the freedom of APK sideloading, which lets them access offshore casino platforms. However, anyone taking this route must thoroughly research the operator to ensure safety. Another potential benefit for Android is access to larger game selections, as these apps can sometimes bypass strict App Store limitations.” What final advice would you share with our readers? “My most important piece of advice is simply to enjoy yourself! While that may sound obvious, it is easy to lose track of time and money when gaming on a mobile device. Remember to take frequent breaks and keep your wagers small. Utilizing built-in deposit and spending limits is an excellent way to ensure a safe and stress-free experience.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - A software engineer employed by Google has been indicted in New York in connection with alleged insider trading activities on Polymarket. According to prosecutors, Michele Spagnuolo purportedly leveraged confidential information from Google to generate over $1.2 million in profits from bets placed on a prediction market. Key Details Michele Spagnuolo is accused of trading under the username AlphaRaccoon. Prosecutors claim he wagered more than $2.7 million on markets related to Google's Year in Search data. Google has confirmed that the employee has been placed on administrative leave. Google Data Becomes Central to Prediction Market Allegations The Department of Justice has stated that Spagnuolo allegedly utilized internal Google Search data to place bets on markets associated with Google Year in Search 2025. The charges pertain to wagers made on lists of the most-searched individuals, with prosecutors asserting these bets were based on non-public company information. Jay Clayton, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, commented: “As alleged, Spagnuolo breached the duties he owed to his employer and exploited Google’s confidential business information to secure over $1.2 million in trading profits on Polymarket.”Polymarket has indicated its cooperation with the Southern District of New York and the CFTC. A representative for the company stated: “Blockchain trading is transparent, traceable, and bad actors leave footprints.” Google has also acknowledged a violation of its internal policies. The company issued a statement saying: “The employee accessed our marketing material using a tool available to all employees, but using such confidential information to place bets is a serious breach of our policies.”This case represents another legal challenge for prediction markets, platforms where event contracts can cover outcomes in sports, politics, entertainment, and business. In a separate, recent case involving Polymarket, federal prosecutors charged a U.S. Army soldier accused of using classified military information to earn approximately $400,000. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.