Category: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) - The Isle of Man Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC) has indicated it will now be evaluating the imposition of civil penalties on those who breach anti-money laundering regulations. Proposed draft regulations outlining how civil penalties may be applied have been put forward following amendments to section 22 of the Gambling (Anti‑Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism) Act 2018, introduced by the Gambling Legislation (Amendment) Bill 2025. Currently, civil penalties can only be levied against operators, but the GSC appears to be exploring a change to this and is seeking input from industry stakeholders through a consultation process. The GSC stated: “The Gambling Legislation (Amendment) Bill 2025 broadens this authority so that a civil penalty may also be imposed on specific individuals (specifically ‘controllers’, ‘key persons’, and ‘senior managers’) when an AML/CFT violation by the operator is attributable to that individual’s consent, connivance, or negligence.” Frameworks within the draft regulations focus on three areas: the maximum civil penalty that could be imposed on individuals or operators; factors to be considered when determining the penalty amount; and the procedures that must be followed to impose the penalty, including notice and appeal requirements. Guidance details how the Isle of Man regulator will apply this extended authority, covering: assessing individual responsibility; examples of how consent, connivance, and negligence may occur; the calculation of penalties; and the decision‑making process. The consultation period began on 23 March and will run until 25 May 2026. The GSC will hold an online Q&A session to help stakeholders understand the draft regulations and facilitate further discussion. The regulator will publish details of this session in due course. Once the consultation process concludes, the GSC will release a summary document outlining the responses received and any changes made to the regulations and guidance. Maverick Games, SBOTOP, and SK IOM Limited have all been fined by the GSC for AML violations over the past year. Shelgeyr Limited (Maverick Games) was fined £200,000 in February, Celton Manx Limited (SBOTOP) was fined £3.94m in July last year, and SK IOM was fined £70,000 in June 2025. 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) - While a recent SBC Digital Day session was called ‘Adapting Marketing as Football Sponsorships Fade,’ the panel's conclusion was that sponsorship is not disappearing but instead transforming. Football sponsorships have been central to iGaming marketing plans, with the Premier League – called the “grandest stage of all” by Russell Yershon, CEO of Connectingbrands.com. Nevertheless, with front-of-shirt gambling sponsorships due to be prohibited from the coming season, operators must now reconsider how to connect with fans beyond conventional kit agreements. New sponsorship routes Yershon and fellow speaker Joaquin Gago, CEO of BetandDeal, both observed that the Premier League will remain an arena for brand visibility. As front-of-shirt space vanishes, sleeve and training-kit agreements are anticipated to become the next focal point for brand exposure. However, the panel concurred that the most promising prospects exist beyond the reliable sport of football. Panel moderator and iGaming Expert Editor Joe Streeter highlighted combat sports promoter MVP’s forthcoming MMA event on Netflix, which will feature stars like Ronda Rousey and Nate Diaz. The event, similar to many past live sports broadcasts on streaming platforms, is predicted to draw enormous global audiences. “It’s absolutely massive. It’s another route for these big global brands to think we know what the Netflix audience is, so let’s go and speak with the rights holder and see what we can do,” Yershon stated. This led to a broader conversation about sponsorships led by athletes. Yershon remembered collaborating with boxer David Haye for a gambling-related brand during his first bout against Tony Bellew, noting the “unbelievable coverage” it produced. With streaming services such as YouTube, Netflix, and Amazon increasingly offering live sports, the speakers also proposed that operators can connect with fans directly, circumventing the restrictions of club-based partnerships. Activation and localisation matter more than ever As the discussion progressed, Gago emphasised the growth of localised influencer campaigns, noting that “influencers are being used more in casino than sports because they are easier games to communicate and engage with the audience.” This approach has grown much more prevalent in recent years. Influencers, who might not have the same follower count as retired footballers, often show greater effectiveness because their communities are intensely concentrated on the specific markets a brand aims to enter. Both panellists agreed that localisation is now essential. Gago explained it is crucial to collaborate with, or employ, local individuals who genuinely comprehend the country and culture, and that any campaign must be tailored to the target market. This strategy does present challenges, however. Yershon insisted that meticulous selection of talent is vital, explaining that due diligence guarantees influencers not only portray the brand well but also connect with the correct audience. He finished by stating that regardless of the direction a brand chooses, activation is what separates mere visibility from a wasted budget. Pull quote – “You need to have a clear plan… otherwise you’re chasing your tail,” Yershon cautioned, stressing that investment without a strategy seldom yields measurable outcomes. Regulation at the centre of all decisions The panel agreed that regulatory structures are the most significant factor influencing sponsorship choices, and that knowing the marketing rules is as important as understanding the culture of a target country. Retired footballers, for instance, have historically been effective ambassadors for betting firms due to their recognition among older demographics. Yet, this is not always simple. The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) illustrated this last year by upholding a complaint against a promoted post on X by Sky Bet. The post contained an embedded video clip from The Overlap podcast, and the ASA determined it was likely to have strong appeal to under-18s because of Gary Neville’s presence. Flutter challenged the decision, arguing that “black-market operators flood the internet and social media without any checks,” pointing out the disparity between regulated brands adhering to strict rules and unregulated operators facing no oversight. This debate connects to ongoing talks about a potential rule that could prohibit unregulated operators from sponsoring sports in England entirely, a change that would dramatically alter the sponsorship environment. Acknowledging this, the discussion shifted to how clubs manage these intricacies and where responsibility truly lies. Yershon mentioned Everton’s partnership with Stake, which had to cease its UK operations after its logo appeared as a watermark on a “widely viewed” social media video featuring an adult actress. “For Stake as a brand, you want to be on the grandest stage of all, which is Premier League front-of-shirt. Working with a team like Everton, you can benefit from that from the global awareness, so I see no issue with that whatsoever. It’s up to the Premier League club. “In terms of whether it’s right or wrong, if the law says you can do it, then why not,” he added, before stating that it is the regulator who must take a firm position. 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) - Europe's gambling industry is taking an active role in the European Commission's (EC) initiative to combat online fraud throughout the continent. Early this year, the EC started developing an action plan designed to enhance cross-border cooperation among member states in tackling online organised crime. To build a comprehensive strategy, the EC invited stakeholders to provide feedback and share best practices for combating fraud schemes, including gambling industry representatives who have long been fighting the black market. As a sector representative, the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) responded to the EC's request for input by highlighting how illegal gambling providers target unsuspecting players by masquerading as licensed operators. To support its position, EGBA provided evidence including websites with domain names that closely mimic those of legitimate operators, exploiting the regulated market's reputation. Additional evidence revealed illegal mobile gambling apps on Google and Apple platforms, black market promotions on social media, and phishing schemes. The trade association also reminded the EC that illegal gambling platforms accounted for approximately 27%, or €18 billion, of Europe's total online gambling market GGR in 2025. This exposes players to considerable risk, as these platforms lack the protections offered by licensed operators and instead heighten the risk of identity theft, financial losses, and problem gambling. Dr Ekaterina Hartmann, Director of Legal and Regulatory Affairs at EGBA, stated: "Our collected evidence demonstrates how fraudsters are systematically exploiting consumer trust in the licensed gambling sector, endangering European consumers and enabling the illegal online gambling market to expand. "From counterfeit websites and fraudulent applications to phishing operations and social media fraud, these threats resurface as fast as they are removed. Piecemeal national responses to such fraud are insufficient – we require coordinated EU-wide action to prevent consumers and legitimate operators from facing an uphill struggle against fraud." The EC's Action Plan on Combating Online Fraud is anticipated to be adopted in the second quarter of 2026. 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 operator of bwin's Danish domain, part of Entain's international sportsbook portfolio, has been fined for breaching national marketing regulations. The Copenhagen City Court imposed a DKK 500,000 (£57,000) penalty following a Consumer Ombudsman complaint regarding ElectraWorks' promotional campaign. The campaign, run by ElectraWorks as operator of the Danish bwin site, was a 'Risk-Free Gambling' promotion. The Ombudsman reported it to Danish police as misleading in 2024 after a consumer complaint. The promotion featured the slogan 'risk free gambling up to 1000 DKK'. After viewing the ad, a consumer placed a DKK 1,000 bet on bwin.dk that lost. After getting a DKK 1,000 free bet, the customer made a second wager that won. However, they complained to the Ombudsman after receiving just DKK 15 in winnings. Both consumer and Ombudsman argue the ad was misleading because the customer finished with less money than started, contradicting the 'risk-free' claim. Torben Jensen, the Consumer Ombudsman, said: "When a gambling firm advertises 'risk-free' betting, consumers should face no financial risk. "I must therefore emphasize that marketing games as 'risk-free' is clearly misleading if consumers can lose money." Ads on Danish political agenda The Court further ruled that bwin's actions constituted 'illegal marketing' under the Marketing Practices Act, which bans advertising that may mislead typical consumers. The court noted 'illegal marketing had occurred for several years', targeting games at young people to attract new customers, requiring extra caution. This fine comes as Denmark overhauls gambling advertising laws to improve consumer protection in its regulatory framework. Denmark re-regulated its gambling market in 2012, ending the Danske Spil state monopoly. Since then, many operators have launched, including LeoVegas (running BetMGM and Nye Expekt sportsbooks), Unibet, bet365 and Stake. The overhaul, led by Taxation Minister Ane Halsboe-Jørgensen, will likely ban marketing during sports events and in public spaces. 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) - SBC Summit Malta 2026 will include a specialized marketing track designed to assist brands in evolving their acquisition and engagement strategies for the modern age. As regulatory environments tighten and media channels multiply, marketing has become one of the gaming industry's most intricate sectors. Teams are no longer merely fighting for visibility; they are operating within a landscape defined by constraints and rapid evolution. Scheduled for 29-30 April, attendees will hear from CEOs, CMOs, and marketing experts as they address the primary hurdles of modern marketing, including rising costs, changing player habits, and the increasing impact of AI and data. The agenda is divided into two distinct segments. Marketing Unplugged, held on Wednesday 29 April, will focus on the strategic mindset required to solve the industry's major marketing issues, while Marketing in Action, on Thursday 30 April, will provide workshops centered on practical execution. “Marketing departments are facing unprecedented pressure as costs climb and the room for error diminishes,” noted Rasmus Sojmark, Founder and CEO of SBC. “By offering various learning styles, this stage enables participants to grasp modern marketing theories and apply them through hands-on practice.” Marketing Unplugged will utilize diverse formats like CEO fireside chats, masterclasses, and live campaign reviews to promote deep engagement and discussion. Discussions will cover Malta’s status as a global gaming center, leadership insights from CEOs, and campaign teardowns by CMOs. Experts will also discuss AI regulatory frameworks and the changing landscape of search. Malta: The Global Gaming Powerhouse The CEO Chat Show: Leadership Insights AI Under the Microscope: Regulation and Responsibility Marketing Channels: Balancing Spend and Savings for 2026–2027 The CMO Review: Live Campaign Analysis SEO Trilogy Marketing in Action will transition from theory to practice, featuring interactive workshops where attendees can develop and test frameworks for immediate use. Participants will explore narrative-driven messaging, loyalty frameworks, and the psychological aspects of branding. Sessions will also demonstrate how AI and data can enhance campaign results and provide a competitive edge. Media & Messaging: Storytelling in a Regulated Era Player Retention and Loyalty: Maximizing Lifetime Value Branding and Psychology: Capturing Market Share AI and Data-Driven Marketing: Optimizing Campaigns Speakers appearing throughout the track include Sam Behar (Marketing Director, Sky Gaming), Sean Bianco (Co-Founder, Gain Change), Conrad Bugeja (Head of SEO at LiveScore Group), Brian Christopher (CEO & Creator, BC Ventures), Alina Famenok (Growth & Partnerships Expert, Former-CEO Already Media), Ivan Filletti (CEO, Gaming in Malta), Nikola Jellacic (CMO, Casumo), Jesper Kärrbrink (CEO, Immense Group), Karolina Moscicka (COO, BugsyEmpire), Francesco Postiglione (CEO, Casumo), Dmitry Starostenkov (CEO, Evenbet), and Marco Trucco (CMO, Immense Group). SBC Summit Malta 2026 is set for 28–30 April at the InterContinental Malta, expecting 6,000 industry professionals. The event also features tracks on product, regulation, affiliation, and leadership. Register for SBC Summit Malta The VIP Event Pass is available for €600, providing full access to the three-day conference and exhibition. Expo+ Passes are €150, while operators and affiliates can apply for complimentary entry via the official links. 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) - Super Group’s departure from the U.S. in 2025 put an end to its bold expansion plans, yet for CEO Neal Menashe, it also highlighted the areas where the company maintains its competitive advantage. Africa contributes roughly 40% of Super Group’s revenue and has been its biggest regional market for five straight quarters—underscoring its critical role in the company’s broader strategy. The firm is also experiencing positive traction in emerging markets such as Botswana, where it launched in early 2025 and has already seen “strong growth” and new customer sign-ups. Expansion efforts are ongoing: Namibia is next on the agenda, thanks to its closeness to the two previously mentioned nations, and several more markets are in the works over the coming two years. Menashe cited key growth drivers like population growth, rising smartphone usage, and the expansion of mobile money—with the continent’s iGaming sector expected to double from $11 billion in 2025 to $22 billion by 2030. South Africa, which Menashe described as one of the most established markets, continues to be the foundation of this growth. “We’re the leading operator in South Africa. It’s a well-regulated market, we saw record casino volumes in our latest quarter, and our Jackpot City brand keeps gaining steam,” he noted. That said, not every market has yielded instant results. Nigeria, despite its large size, has turned out to be more difficult, leading the company to reassess its approach there. “Nigeria is one market where we haven’t performed as well,” Menashe admitted. “We’re revising our strategy for Nigeria, which is completely distinct from our approach elsewhere in Africa. We see significant potential there—it’s a huge market, and since we prioritize mobile, we’re refining our product to better fit the market.” American Lessons Having invested “hundreds of millions of dollars” in an attempt to compete in a market led by DraftKings and FanDuel, Super Group eventually determined there was no obvious route to making a profit in the U.S. But the venture wasn’t a total loss. It helped the company narrow its focus to markets where it already has size and operational strengths—especially Africa, where Menashe thinks Super Group has a presence comparable to the leading players in the U.S. market. In a recent episode of iGaming Daily, Menashe commented: “We picked up many valuable lessons. To compete, you have to be among the very best.” What will the 2026 World Cup offer? Given that many of the markets where Super Group operates are represented in the tournament, the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026—hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico—presents a major chance for the company to boost user engagement. “Sport is all about content,” Menashe explained, noting that the tournament acts as an extension of the football season, offering “an extra six weeks” of high-level user interaction. Per the company, 88% of its revenue comes from nations that are part of the World Cup. Past tournaments have always led to surges in user activity, and Menashe anticipates the same pattern for 2026. Instead of pouring money into costly official tournament sponsorships, Super Group plans to focus on digital marketing campaigns and use its existing football partnerships—specifically naming Arsenal and Manchester City. On the operational side, the main focus will be maintaining platform stability and smooth payouts during periods of high demand, especially since daily user counts can hit the millions. The World Cup also aligns with the company’s business model. Although Betway is positioned as a sports-focused brand, casino operations are the main source of revenue, making up roughly 80% of the group’s total income. “Sports bring in user interaction, and then the casino is where they can win large sums,” he said. “We’re a casino company at our core, but with this incredible sports brand and product, it’s all about delivering engaging content.” Balancing tax and growth With recent increases in gambling taxes in the UK and other markets where Super Group operates, it’s no surprise the subject was discussed. Menashe expressed his opinion that the ideal tax rate for iGaming operators is between 15% and 25%, cautioning that overly high taxes could push consumers to use unregulated platforms. “If you tax an industry so heavily that no one can turn a profit, countries end up losing all the tax revenue they would have otherwise gained,” he explained, pointing out the danger of illegal operators stepping in to fill the void. In the UK, where new tax increases are set to come into force, Super Group anticipates a financial impact but is confident it can manage the effects through improved efficiency and less competition as smaller operators leave the market. The company has already been optimizing its operations—cutting staff numbers and directing investments towards markets where it can achieve long-term profitability, like Canada. As taxes and competition both increase, Menashe wrapped up by sharing insights into the company’s strategy: focusing on markets where it can succeed and staying disciplined in others. “You can’t be present in every market,” he stated. “It’s not just a matter of launching a website—this is about being the absolute best.” 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 most recent FY25 financial results from Playtech Group have shown that the company is lagging in B2B revenue during a period when it is moving away from B2C operations. B2B revenue from last year's trading amounted to €688.3m, a 9% decrease from the €754.3m recorded in 2024. Adjusted EBITDA fell by 36% to €141.4m compared to FY24's €222m, while post-tax profit was €44.2m – a 28% year-on-year decline. The key factor affecting performance was the revised Caliente Interactive agreement at the end of 2024, under which Playtech ceased receiving extra B2B service fees in the first half of 2025 and began receiving dividend payments as a 30.8% equity stakeholder from the second half onward. Strategic regional priorities In contrast to the B2B revenue figures, B2C operational revenue stood at €78.5m (FY24: €97.8m), influenced by the €2.3bn sale of Italian gambling major Snaitech to Flutter Entertainment, along with a further B2C scaling back in Germany through the sale of domestic brand HAPPYBET. Nonetheless, a significant bright spot for Playtech in FY25 was its advancement in North America. Revenue across the US and Canada surged by 71% year-on-year on a constant currency basis, rising from €29.8m to €48m. The company noted that this performance was fueled by strong activity from clients such as DraftKings, FanDuel, Hard Rock Digital, and Delaware North. Live Casino has emerged as a key driver for Playtech’s US operations, the company confirmed, with the number of live tables operated by the firm nearly doubling year-on-year across its studios in New Jersey, Michigan, and Pennsylvania. Turning to Latin America, the region was labeled a "core strategic priority" by company management, even as domestic revenue fell by 27% to €162m, directly attributed to the revised Caliente agreement and the introduction of VAT in Colombia. Still, the regulation of Brazil at the start of last year helped mitigate a more severe impact, with Latin America revenue actually increasing by 8% year-on-year when excluding Caliente. Colombia also remains a viable medium-term opportunity due to Playtech’s local partnership with Wplay and the potential for the government to reduce the 19% VAT on online gambling deposits to a 16% tax on a player’s GGR. Despite tax challenges, B2B revenue in Europe grew by 4% year-on-year to €207.4m. Poland, Spain, Greece, and France were identified as top-performing markets for Playtech throughout 2025. UK revenue, calculated separately from Europe, decreased by 6% year-on-year but retains key priority status for the Isle of Man-based company. The public Playtech Evolution AB dispute… The company also provided an update on its ongoing case with Evolution AB, stating: "Evolution has not sought permission from the New Jersey Court to add any group entity to the proceedings, and no claim has been served on Playtech plc or any of its subsidiaries." In October 2025, Stockholm-listed Evolution released a statement alleging that Playtech had hired Black Cube, an Israeli private intelligence firm that markets itself as specializing in "high-stake disputes." Playtech later acknowledged commissioning a private investigation into its competitor and stated it "stood by its decision" to do so. Evolution characterized the move as a "smear campaign," claiming the investigation—which purports to have uncovered evidence of the company operating illegally in jurisdictions including China, Iran, and Sudan between 2021-2023—aimed to damage its reputation and could cause "multi-billion-dollar" harm. Playtech, however, countered: "Evolution continues to avoid legitimate scrutiny instead of addressing longstanding questions about its conduct, including its decision to supply operators in illegal markets and support unlicensed operators in regulated markets." … which has contributed to a share price plummet The dispute did not sit well with the market, as Playtech shares dropped from 349.5p to 237.5p in the first five hours of trading on the day of the announcement. Its share price has generally trended downward over the past 12 months, declining by more than 50% during that period. The exception has been a positive trend since the start of the year. Even today, despite positive remarks from executives, significant progress in North America, and an upgrade to its expectations, the stock has fallen by 7.5% to £3.31. Its market capitalization remains just over £1bn. Upcoming and ongoing tax challenges, the current dispute with a rival, and declining revenue may be among the factors deterring investors from backing the widely discussed Isle of Man-headquartered company. Playtech’s position as a London-listed firm—specifically a FTSE 250 company—is an unenviable one amid such transformation, and it will aim to advance as outlined by executives to reverse steep drops in profit, revenue, and share price. 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) - After the prominent release of Treasure Tumble, iGamingExpert interviewed Relax Gaming’s Senior Product Manager, Barry O’Hare, regarding the planned introduction of the new Supercharge feature. This novel interface enhancement aims to consolidate the provider’s extensive collection of in-game extras into a unified, player-driven experience that emphasizes personalization and player retention. Could you begin by explaining what Supercharge is and why it has started appearing in Relax games? Relax has developed a substantial portfolio of player-oriented add-ons and features over time. Supercharge serves as a central, simplified player interface that consolidates all these choices, enabling players to more easily find and customize their gaming experience. We consider this a clever enhancement that effectively addresses the needs of various player demographics. It provides access to a comprehensive selection of upgrade spins, empowering players to dictate their gameplay and directly access their preferred gaming experiences. What issue does the integration of Supercharge into the interface resolve? As we progressively launched innovative features such as Bonus Reels and Feature Buys, their access points became dispersed. Supercharge consolidates all these into one cohesive, user-friendly hub. This not only enhances the ease of finding and activating features but also liberates crucial screen space, allowing the main game to stand out. By bringing these appealing features together, we guarantee that players can readily locate precisely what they desire. How is a product like Supercharge designed with the end-user perspective in mind? Our main objective was to develop clear, user-friendly navigation. Concurrently, Supercharge had to integrate naturally into each game – appearing refined, fluid, and intrinsic to the overall experience. Close collaboration with our in-house studios during the design stage guaranteed that Supercharge adhered to the same rigorous quality benchmarks as the games themselves. The aim is to accommodate a wide spectrum of player preferences. Whether players favor Enhanced Spins for more frequent bonuses or high-multiplier volatility options such as Galleon Spins, featured in our newest releases, the design ensures these selections feel intuitive and simple. What benefits will operators gain from Supercharge, and what steps are required for its implementation? Operators consistently strive to optimize player retention. By enhancing the visibility and ease of interaction with personalization features, Supercharge fosters more profound and prolonged engagement, leading to recurring visits. Our comprehensive analysis indicates that players who engage with game features they appreciate are significantly more prone to returning regularly. Since Supercharge empowers players to customize their gameplay, it establishes a more dependable basis for steady performance and elevated player lifetime value. Supercharge has already been previewed in your recent titles, Beast Gains and Treasure Tumble. What has the initial feedback been? While it is still early, the response has been exceptionally positive. Operators showed enthusiasm even before launch, and since its release, we have observed robust engagement – particularly from the streaming community, who actively interact during live play with our streamer-compatible mechanics that generate authentic excitement. Preliminary data indicates not only enhanced feature discoverability, with a greater percentage of our players exploring game functionalities and add-ons, but also improved player retention. Players who activate Supercharge options are on average playing more rounds in their chosen modes compared to similar game samples where Supercharge is not accessible. Specifically in Treasure Tumble, players have enthusiastically embraced the Supercharge options, utilizing them to customize their sessions and interact more profoundly with the game's high-volatility elements. What are the future plans for Supercharge and how might it evolve? The current iteration of Supercharge can be regarded as ‘Version 1’. We have numerous promising improvements underway, some of which will be unveiled shortly. As we persist in broadening our game portfolio and platform capabilities, players and operators can anticipate ongoing growth and enhancement of Supercharge in the future, guaranteeing its status as a primary revenue generator for 2026 and beyond. 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) - Playtech still classifies its US legal dispute with Evolution as merely a ‘contingent liability’, noting that its rival has not yet submitted a formal claim in the high-profile Black Cube case. Playtech defends its choice to hire independent business intelligence firm Black Cube to examine Evolution’s business practices and rejects any claims of illegal activity. Consequently, Playtech’s recently released FY2025 financial report does not include any actual cash reserves on its balance sheet to cover possible lawsuit damages. In the notes section of its report, Playtech stated: “On 21 October 2025, Evolution AB publicly named Playtech Software Limited—a Group subsidiary—as the party that commissioned a 2021 Black Cube report, which has been cited in ongoing US legal actions but does not involve any Group entity. “Additionally, on the same day, Evolution AB stated publicly that it would modify its complaint to include Playtech Software Ltd in the lawsuit. But as of the date these financial statements were approved, Evolution had not sought the Court’s permission to add any Group entity to the New Jersey proceedings, and no claim has been served on Playtech Plc, Playtech Software Limited, or any other Group entity. “The Group denies any allegations of illegal behavior. Due to the case’s early stage and the lack of any served claim against the Group—including no indication of the potential claim amount—this is deemed a contingent liability alone.” Last October, Evolution alleged that Playtech subsidiary Playtech Software Limited was responsible for commissioning Black Cube to investigate the provider’s operations in banned and sanctioned markets, as well as its supply to unlicensed operators in regulated markets. At the time, Playtech replied that the claim its subsidiary participated in a smear campaign is “entirely false and intended to divert attention from serious concerns about Evolution’s business practices”. It added that it stands by its decision to commission the report and welcomes a court review. In February, Evolution also provided little information about litigation updates in its Q4 investor report, but Chief Executive Officer Martin Carlesund stated that the company is “looking forward to progressing with the lawsuit”. Revenue dip but Playtech happy with FY26 start Playtech reported that its FY25 group revenue from continuing operations decreased 10% year-over-year to €763.6 million (FY24: €848 million), with B2B and B2C revenues falling from the prior year. Group adjusted EBITDA was €197 million, a 9% drop (FY24: €217.5 million). B2B revenue declined 9% YoY to €688.3 million (FY24: €754.3 million), mainly because of a revised agreement with Caliente Interactive affecting Latin America operations. Regulated markets revenue fell 7% to €559.4 million (FY24: €598.4 million) due to the Caliente adjustment and UK declines, which were partially balanced by growth in the US and Canada. On an underlying basis, regulated revenue increased by 6%. B2C revenue dropped 20% to €78.5 million (FY24: €97.8 million). HAPPYBET in Germany is close to finishing its wind-down, with completion expected in 2026. In May 2025, Playtech agreed with NetX Betting—a subsidiary of Frankfurt-listed operator pferdewetten.de AG—to purchase specific HAPPYBET hardware assets. The process is complete, with contractual terms in place with the relevant franchise partners. Meanwhile, Sun Bingo and other B2C operations were affected by regulatory measures and marketing limits. Sun Bingo’s operations are being reviewed due to UK online gambling tax changes. As of 31 December 2025, net cash was €28.5 million, up from a net debt of €142.8 million at the end of 2024. Free cash flow was €29.5 million, down from €73.1 million in FY24. Mor Weizer, CEO of Playtech, called 2025 a year of “major transition for Playtech” after completing the sale of Snaitech. He added: “The US had a particularly strong performance, with revenue nearly doubling as momentum picked up across our partnerships. We hit several key strategic milestones, expanding into more iGaming states and continuing to grow our Live offering.” “Our Latin America position also improved, backed by the revised Caliente agreement—which is performing well and further bolsters our presence in Mexico. “The strong momentum from 2025 has continued into early 2026, especially in the Americas. We’re still confident in hitting our ambitious medium-term goals and see exciting opportunities for the Group across all our 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.

Kenneth Morton, Group Chief Financial Officer at Allwyn International, firmly asserts that no competitor can rival the company's history of generating cash, especially following the completion of the OPAP merger this week. (AsiaGameHub) - The leadership of Allwyn International is convinced it has developed the most compelling investment proposition in the worldwide gambling sector, having become a publicly traded entity through its merger with OPAP. As of market close on Tuesday, March 24, Allwyn was operating as the globe's second-biggest lotteries and gaming firm, solidifying its standing among the premier publicly listed gambling companies. This deal will bring together Allwyn International and OPAP, the established operator of Greece's national lottery and retail betting network – representing the conclusion of a half-year strategic initiative to redefine the group's financial and corporate profile. Generating value within a transformed Allwyn Fundamentally, the updated Allwyn identity is characterized by its ability to generate cash, its extensive scale, and its operational consistency, all while strengthening its role as a major benefactor to charitable initiatives across its operational regions. Nevertheless, for Group CFO, Kenneth Morton, who provided an exclusive interview to SBC News after the merger's completion, the narrative goes far beyond mere size, encompassing elements of trust, distinctiveness, and enduring value generation. “We are not newcomers to this sector,” Morton stated, highlighting Allwyn’s long-standing collaboration with Athens-listed OPAP. “OPAP's investors are already familiar with our achievements. Overall shareholder returns have surpassed 500% since 2013.” Kenneth Morton, Allwyn CFO – Source: Allwyn He further noted that this strong performance stems from rigorous execution, which includes a twofold increase in OPAP’s EBITDA over the last half-decade. Significantly, this proven history has fostered substantial investor confidence in the recently merged entity, evidenced by over 93% of OPAP shareholders maintaining their investments. “We have generated considerable wealth for them – and that reputation is vital as we present the Allwyn narrative worldwide,” he remarked. Reimagining the lottery concept Morton has characterized Allwyn as a unique entity, standing apart from other publicly traded gambling firms. Originating in the Czech Republic with SAZKA, the group has developed into what he terms a singular presence within the industry – an operator that has successfully established a novel category by expanding and updating the lottery framework across various territories. “Our business is quite distinct,” he commented. “We have constructed something previously non-existent – a large-scale, lottery-focused platform.” This distinctiveness stems from a blend of robust retail presence, advanced digital capabilities, proprietary technological solutions, and growing content integration. The collective goal is to broaden the appeal of lotteries within today's entertainment environment. A core element of Allwyn’s investment argument is its capacity to provide both expansion and returns for shareholders – a equilibrium that Morton contended is unparalleled in the industry. He added: “Since 2019, we have virtually trebled the business's size across all key indicators. Concurrently, we have produced substantial cash flow and distributed considerable dividends.” According to Morton, this dual achievement reinforces Allwyn’s attractiveness in equity markets: “That represents a truly persuasive and appealing offer.” During his discussion with SBC, he characterized the company as an uncommon instance of a gaming enterprise that can expand its operations while simultaneously upholding financial prudence and providing steady returns. Diversification as a core strength Diversification stands as another key advantage of Allwyn’s updated PLC structure, especially pertinent amidst unpredictable and fluctuating market environments. “Among gaming stocks, we are among the most diversified,” Morton stated. “This is a significant benefit – both for mitigating risks and for future growth opportunities.” In contrast to operators with heavy reliance on individual markets or product categories, Allwyn’s multi-market, multi-channel framework offers a more stable earnings foundation while allowing agility to pursue fresh expansion prospects. The transformed Allwyn Moving forward, the company's aspirations reach far beyond Europe. Although OPAP and other European assets form a solid base, Morton pinpointed North America as a crucial strategic area for the operator, in addition to developing prospects in South America. He elaborated: “The gaming industry is seeing growing returns to scale. Competition is no longer solely against other betting providers – it's for consumers' time and finances against the broader global entertainment sector.” Within this landscape, triumph hinges on scale, technology, content, and brand – domains where Allwyn is assured it has already forged a substantial competitive edge. Notwithstanding the magnitude of the merger, Morton emphasized that the company's leadership perceives this transaction not as a conclusion, but as the commencement of a fresh chapter. “This is likely the most thrilling transaction we have undertaken,” he stated. “It positions us at a truly promising juncture in the group's evolution.” Allwyn’s attention now turns to implementing its subsequent phase of expansion. “We have established a robust foundation,” Morton concluded. “The objective now is to elevate the business to its next stage.” 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) - EveryMatrix has enhanced its aggregation platform via a new collaboration with Eeze. As a result of the agreement, Eeze's collection of live dealer games will be accessible to EveryMatrix's global partners. Bjorn Sjoberg, Chief Commercial Officer at EveryMatrix, commented: "We are delighted to incorporate Eeze's complete product range into our aggregation portfolio. Featuring top-tier live products and a promising lineup of RNG games in development, we are certain our clients will appreciate the unique value these titles add to the market." Games now accessible through EveryMatrix's platform comprise the recently launched Fusion Roulette and Eeze's first slot titles. Mikko Hoglund, Partnership Manager at Eeze, stated: "Collaborating with EveryMatrix represents a significant milestone for us as we aim to expand our games to a broader player audience than previously possible. "We have numerous exciting product launches scheduled for the coming months, and we are confident that these games, along with our current portfolio, will be warmly welcomed by EveryMatrix's clientele." EveryMatrix steps up US presence In the previous month, EveryMatrix extended its aggregation hub's reach via an agreement with Ocean Casino Resort in New Jersey. Users of Ocean Resort's online site, betOcean, obtained access to more than 45,000 games from over 360 providers on EveryMatrix's casino platform. This agreement represented the fifth collaboration EveryMatrix has established in North America and the third within the US. The company presently maintains licenses in Connecticut, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia, along with the Canadian province of Ontario. It has partnerships with bet365, betParx, Delaware North, and Pinnacle. Mark Burroughes, Chief Commercial Officer of Casino at EveryMatrix, noted at the time: "Partnering with betOcean represents a vital step in our expansion strategy. Achieving a complete aggregation integration in less than four months, including obtaining regulatory approval, demonstrates our extensive expertise in providing compliant content in the US." 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) - Banijay Group has outlined an ambitious growth strategy to achieve €10bn (£8.65bn) in revenue by 2029, following two major transactions. The France-headquartered entertainment conglomerate confirmed that its acquisition of Tipico Group and the merger of Banijay Entertainment with All3Media will reshape its business portfolio across content, live events, and gaming. Both transactions are anticipated to conclude in 2026, pending regulatory approvals. On a pro forma basis, the expanded group is projected to generate approximately €7.4bn in revenue, €1.6bn in adjusted EBITDA, and €1.2bn in adjusted free cash flow. Chief Executive Officer François Riahi characterized the company’s recent advancements as a “step-change” in its positioning. “With a significantly strengthened platform spanning content, live, and gaming, we are constructing an unmatched global entertainment powerhouse, ideally positioned to seize long-term industry growth and consolidation opportunities,” he stated. “The signing of these two transformative deals marks a pivotal step in our development. We are transitioning to a stronger, more robust, and cash-generative platform. “Building upon this momentum, our revised outlook reflects both the strength of our platform and our confidence in delivering sustained growth, strong cash generation, and long-term value creation for our shareholders. By 2029, driven solely by organic growth, we will be a roughly €10bn revenue group.” Banijay’s gaming focus Gaming will occupy a central role in the new structure, making up over half of the group’s EBITDA, propelled by the integration of Tipico. The company will merge its Betclic brand—one of the most prominent in its home market—with Germany’s Tipico, forming a company projected to generate over €3bn in revenue. Banijay anticipates robust growth across both core divisions – Banijay Gaming and Banijay Entertainment – by 2029. The gaming business is projected to grow at approximately 10% annually, while the entertainment segment is expected to achieve steady mid-single-digit growth. Overall, the group aims for over 7% annual EBITDA growth, along with double-digit earnings per share growth. This strategy reflects a broader shift toward integrating content and betting, enabling Banijay to monetize its intellectual property across various channels, such as digital and live experiences. A recent media expansion Tipico anticipates generating approximately €100m in synergies over time, while the All3Media merger is projected to add an additional €50m within the first year post-completion. The latter transaction was announced just at the beginning of this month—only days before it published its full annual results. Banijay and RedBird IMI have agreed to merge the London-based business with Banijay Entertainment in a 50-50 joint venture. This is poised to create one of the world’s largest independent content producers, as evidenced by the figures it would have hypothetically generated in 2024. On a pro forma basis, the combined group would have generated over €4.4bn in revenue and €690m in adjusted EBITDA. In addition to growth, the group is indicating a focus on shareholder returns, with plans to gradually increase dividends over the next four years. It also plans to distribute a €400m special dividend upon completion of the All3Media transaction, subject to shareholder approval. Looking forward, Banijay’s strategy centers on three priorities: organic growth, unlocking synergies across its expanded operations, and selective acquisitions. The company also intends to invest in AI and technology to drive product innovation and enhance user engagement. Plans in a heavily regulated jurisdiction Banijay stated that its 2026 guidance is largely aligned with its longer-term targets, with mid-to-high single-digit EBITDA growth anticipated, though this will be marginally lower following the impact of tax hikes in France. Retail sports betting taxes in France have risen to 42.1%, online sports betting taxes from 54.9% to 59.3%, and online poker is now taxed at 10% of GGR (up from 0.2% of stakes). There have also been discussions about regulating online casinos, which would presumably also face heavy taxation. Banijay’s revenue increased by 10% to €1.59bn in 2025, and while this remains an impressive figure compared to some, the company still has a distance to cover to reach the 11-digit mark, especially amid these headwinds. However, with the ongoing integration of Tipico and All3Media, it has further diversified and believes it is now better positioned to navigate the ever-evolving industry and deliver growth over the coming years. 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 horse racing industry has voiced its disapproval following Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross’ confirmation that the Horserace Betting Levy will not be increased. Labour Minister Ian Murray delivered the update to the House of Commons on the Baroness's behalf, noting that the decision reflects racing's vital role in the UK's economy and sporting heritage. Consequently, horse racing remains the sole sport benefiting from a government-enforced levy, set at 10% of the annual gross profits for bookmakers earning over £500,000 from British racing wagers. These funds are overseen by the Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) to support breeding, scientific research, and veterinary training. The levy generated £108m in 2025, an increase from the £105m recorded in 2024. Baroness Twycross identified two primary factors for maintaining the current rate, starting with the broader gambling tax adjustments outlined in the 2025 Autumn Budget. Chancellor Rachel Reeves previously revealed that Remote Gaming Duty will jump from 21% to 40% this April, while General Betting Duty (GBD) is set to rise from 15% to 25% in April 2027. While these hikes impact online operators, British horse racing is excluded from the GBD increase, keeping its rate at 15% alongside the existing 10% racing levy. Additionally, the government declined to expand the levy to include international racing, keeping the focus strictly on domestic British events. Officials argued that the current levy, combined with commercial prospects, ensures a sufficiently strong future for the relationship between the betting and racing sectors. The announcement referenced findings from a review initiated by the previous administration, which concluded in April 2024. “The Government remains a firm supporter of racing. We back efforts to modernize governance, update the fixture calendar, and enhance horse welfare,” stated Baroness Twycross, adding that they will continue collaborating with the BHA and other stakeholders. BHA expresses opposition The British Horseracing Authority (BHA), the sport's governing body, has made its frustration with the decision very clear. BHA CEO Brant Dunshea criticized both the duration and the conclusion of the process, stating it was disappointing that a three-year review resulted in no change to the rate. Dunshea noted that the industry participated in discussions in good faith, providing evidence of the widening gap between the costs of staging races and the revenue received from betting. He also suggested a shift in the government's position, pointing out that the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) appears to have moved away from its earlier stance. Prior to the Budget, the DCMS had cautioned the Treasury that racing would see little benefit from a tax carve-out unless it was paired with a levy increase. Dunshea questioned why the DCMS now considers a rate change unnecessary just months after that warning. He warned that the industry faces significant challenges, including post-pandemic attendance issues, a stagnant levy, and the implementation of affordability checks from the Gambling Act Review White Paper. He suggested that if the government refuses to raise the levy, it should at least halt the introduction of affordability checks that could jeopardize the sport's financial future. The BHA also disputed the government's perspective on returns, claiming the sport receives less than 3% from the gambling sector, compared to 7.7% in France and 8.4% in Ireland. This decision may further strain the link between racing and betting, which was already under pressure during last year's tax debates, despite the BHA's ongoing cooperation with firms like Flutter Entertainment. Internal friction is also reportedly rising among major stakeholders like the BHA, the Jockey Club, Arena Racecourse Company (ARC), and the Racecourse Association (RCA) regarding the sport's strategic direction. 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) - Digital sports media group Better Collective has appointed Thomas Plenborg as its new Board Chair, as the company revamps its international strategy. The company confirmed that Plenborg will replace Jens Bager as Board Chair, after Bager decided not to pursue re-election following more than a decade in the position. Better Collective recognized the 'critical role' the incoming Chair has already served in its corporate evolution, as the company has broadened its presence from Europe to North and South America. New horizons Established in 2004 and based in Copenhagen, Better Collective has grown into one of the largest digital sports media companies specializing in the betting industry and runs one of the sector's largest affiliate networks. The company has established a strong position in key regional iGaming markets, including Latin America through its 2024 purchase of Playmaker Capital. It also participates in other aspects of the iGaming ecosystem, such as responsible gambling through its Mindway AI subsidiary. "We are delighted to welcome Thomas Plenborg as our new Chair," stated Jesper Søgaard, Co-founder and Co-CEO of Better Collective. "Having collaborated with him on the Board for the past year, we have already gained from his extensive financial and strategic expertise. "His background with world-class companies will be extremely valuable as we continue striving to become the premier digital sports media group." Plenborg assumes the board leadership position as Better Collective prepares to enter another sector—the rapidly growing, though controversial, predictions market space. The company intends to utilize its US-focused brands such as Action Network and VegasInsider. This potential new revenue source follows the release of its Q4 and FY25 financial results in February, which showed a minor decline in annual revenue. Plenborg commented: "I want to thank Jens for his leadership and long-term dedication to Better Collective. He has been instrumental in establishing the governance, strategic vision, and growth trajectory over the last ten years. "I now anticipate collaborating closely with the management team and fellow Board members to further develop Better Collective for the benefit of all stakeholders, including customers, partners, employees, and shareholders." 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) - Alberta appears to have provided the first clear timeline for launching its regulated iGaming market in the Canadian province. The province's regulator, Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis (AGLC), has released a guidance document for the iGaming transition period, detailing requirements for commercial operators seeking licences. The document outlines expectations for unregulated operators, stating they must submit applications, pay registration fees, and halt unregulated activities by July 13. The AGLC stated: "Any operator or associated entity running an unregulated lottery scheme in Alberta must submit a completed application and pay all applicable registration fees to AGLC by July 13, 2026. Operators must also stop all unregulated lottery scheme activities, including taking bets, by July 13, 2026. "AGLC may grant a maximum three-month extension to October 13, 2026, on a case-by-case basis, but only if an operator can show a compliance path for market launch that was not achievable before July 13, 2026." Though not a definitive launch date, this provides the industry with insight into the province's current timeline and pace for going live. Alberta iGaming Corporation (AiGC), which handles commercial agreements, anti-money laundering (AML), public complaints, and financial reporting, will set the official launch date. The AGLC added that all unregulated market activity must cease by the announced go-live date, regardless of whether it falls after July 13 or October 13 this year. Several operators, including Caesars Entertainment, have shown interest in Alberta's regulated iGaming market. However, the AGLC noted that fewer than 10 have paid the required fees so far. The six-month exemption provision only applies to iGaming suppliers that have paid the required fees and received written confirmation from AGLC that their application was accepted. The AGLC stated: "Despite strong interest from over 55 operator sites, only nine have paid the required fees to date. Regulatory Services is closely monitoring advertising and overall market activity, and continued non-compliance could significantly affect future suitability determinations." Regarding player accounts on unregulated sites transitioning to the regulated market, the AGLC stated that all outstanding bets must be resolved or cancelled beforehand, including settling open wagers, returning account balances, and notifying players about account closure timelines and procedures. Earlier this year, the AGLC published the Standards and Requirements for Internet Gaming, which outlines key iGaming components for the province, including licensing fees, tax rates, advertising, and player protection. Portions of the province's iGaming framework have been known since spring last year, when the iGaming Alberta Act was passed. 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 Care Quality Commission (CQC) has called on the UK’s new gambling harm treatment commissioners to maintain continuity during the shift to a statutory levy. Charities part of the National Gambling Support Network were commended for delivering ‘safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led’ treatment. However, the CQC also recognized worries raised by GambleAware that the ongoing quality of care could be impacted as service commissioning moves to the NHS under a new funding model. The report stated: “We would urge commissioners to review the findings of this report to make sure services continue to provide care in a similar way so that people experiencing gambling harms still receive the care and support they need, and that there is ongoing oversight and assessment of the quality of services.” The Gambling Commission and GambleAware requested the CQC to conduct the review, with inspections occurring from May 2025 to March 2026. The 14 charities included in the review were the EPIC Restart Foundation, ARA Recovery For All, NECA, Gordon Moody, Beacon Counselling Trust, Primary Care Gambling Service, Aquarius, GamCare, GamCare Helpline, Adferiad, RCA Trust (Scotland), Betknowmore UK, Breakeven and Reframe Coaching. Findings showed that individuals dealing with gambling harm ‘could access services when needed and received personalized, needs-based treatment and support’. Longheld concerns The CQC joins a growing list of organizations expressing fears that the funding transition will slow treatment progress as the NHS becomes the primary treatment administrator, with services divided between England, Scotland and Wales. GambleAware noted in its legacy report ahead of closing on 31 March: “There is a concern that differences in local capacity could mean that the quality of services varies from place to place. Without deliberate action, these risks could erode progress made in prevention, early intervention, and equity of response.” The Welsh Government has already granted the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board £1.3 million to operate a gambling helpline for those with gambling problems in Wales. However, this will run alongside the well-known National Gambling Helpline operated by GamCare, sparking worries about confusion for people seeking help. GamCare confirmed it has contacted Welsh Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing Sarah Murphy regarding the decision, aiming to clarify how the two services will work together to support those in need. The charity’s CEO, Victoria Corbishley, said: “The shared aim must be to minimise any confusion for those reaching out in moments of vulnerability. Our focus remains firmly on the people we serve.” Independence vote Organizations like GamCare are currently learning how much funding they’ll receive from the £120 million raised in the first year of the statutory levy—funded by a percentage of UK licensed operators’ gross gaming yield. But uncertainty around funding for longstanding charities has grown due to rumors that groups with past industry ties would be excluded. However, this position seems to be easing, according to Duncan Garvie, founder of BetBlocker. Speaking at the Illegal Gambling Prevention Summit, he said: “Pragmatically, there was always going to be some level of disruption. What I hope to see if a softening of positions and to reach a place where all stakeholders can be included in the conversation without the stigmatisation.” During the third sector charity review, GamCare shared that the CQC found no evidence its support and treatment were influenced by the gambling industry. Corbishley welcomed the feedback, stating that being recognized as independent is ‘fundamental to the trust people place in us’. “This independent assessment is important assurance for commissioners, partners, and above all for the people who rely on our services,” she added. 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) - SBC Summit Americas is set to debut a specialized Prediction Markets Forum to analyze one of the most rapidly expanding and discussed segments within the US sports betting landscape. Scheduled for Thursday, June 11, as part of the event's Breakout Stage, the forum will gather operators, legal professionals, and industry analysts to discuss the growth of prediction markets, the entry of sportsbooks into the field, and the regulatory and integrity hurdles ahead. The four-session track will be moderated by Patrick Everson, a sports betting analyst and contributor to FOX Sports. The recent spike in interest for prediction markets is largely linked to the 2024 presidential election, which pushed event contracts into the public spotlight. Since that time, DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics have all taken steps to enter the sector, while platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket are expanding their reach through high-profile athlete endorsements and multi-year league partnerships. However, the industry faces legal uncertainty due to conflicting federal decisions and a surge in state-level enforcement actions and lawsuits from gaming regulators. “Prediction markets are set to be a defining feature of the American market by 2026, though the ambiguity between financial trading and traditional wagering presents significant challenges for the sector,” stated Rasmus Sojmark, CEO and Founder of SBC. “This forum will gather the key figures influencing this space to help the industry understand the road ahead.” The program begins with an introductory session, Prediction Markets 101. Speaker Dan Zucker (President, Zucker Media Group) will explore the evolution of event contracts from 19th-century economic hedging to their current status as a potential billion-dollar industry. He will also explain the mechanics of these markets, the reasons for their rapid growth, and their influence on the modern gambling sector. Over the past 18 months, several prominent US operators have moved into the world of event contracts. In the session "How Sportsbooks Are Entering the World of Event Contracts," experts Dr. Laila Mintas (CEO, Dr. Mintas Consulting), David Huffman (COO, Sporttrade), and Dustin Gouker (Founder, The Closing Line) will discuss the motivations behind these moves and whether state-level partnerships are a vital part of their strategy. The "A Question of Compliance and Integrity" panel will focus on the legal and regulatory hurdles facing US prediction markets. Legal expert Dan Wallach (Partner, Wallach Legal) will analyze the regulatory landscape, ongoing lawsuits from gaming groups and states, and the resulting compliance issues for operators. Looking forward, the "What’s the Future of Futures?" session will consider the long-term effects of prediction markets on the betting industry. Speakers Ilya Beylin (Associate Professor, Seton Hall University School of Law), Robin D Hanson (Associate Professor, George Mason University), and Chris Gerlacher (Senior Political Reporter and Industry Analyst, Prediction News) will discuss potential Supreme Court involvement and the tension between land-based opponents and online sportsbooks seeking to integrate these markets. This subject will also be explored on the Leaders Stage in a panel titled “The Current State of Prediction Markets in the US.” Experts Joshua B. Sterling (Partner, Milbank) and Alex Kane (CEO, Sporttrade) will review the evolution of these markets across North America and the reactions from investors, regulators, and operators to the shifting environment. The Prediction Markets Forum is a key component of the two-day SBC Summit Americas conference. In addition to the Breakout Stage, attendees can explore sessions on sports betting, casino gaming, payments, technology, compliance, affiliation, leadership, and player safety across North and Latin America. Secure Your Entry to SBC Summit Americas: VIP Pass – Priced at $700, providing full access to the conference agenda, expo floor, the Food Festival, and evening networking events. Expo+ Pass: Available for $95, offering access to the expo floor and all conference sessions (excluding evening networking events). Complimentary Operator & Affiliate Passes: Qualified operators and affiliates may apply for free passes for SBC Summit Americas, subject to approval. Apply for Your Complimentary Operator Pass | Apply for Your Complimentary Affiliate Pass. 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) - SBC Summit Americas is set to launch a dedicated Prediction Markets Forum, which will dive into one of the fastest-growing and most hotly debated verticals within U.S. sports betting. Scheduled for Thursday, 11 June as part of the Breakout Stage, this forum will gather operators, legal experts and industry analysts to look into the growth of prediction markets, the ways sportsbooks are entering this space, and the regulatory and integrity challenges that are defining its future. The four-session lineup will be chaired by Patrick Everson, a sports betting analyst and contributor for FOX Sports. The recent boom in prediction markets can be traced directly to the 2024 presidential election, which pushed event contracts into the mainstream. Since that election, DraftKings, FanDuel and Fanatics have all taken steps to build a presence in this space, while platforms including Kalshi and Polymarket continue to grow in prominence via high-profile athlete sponsorships and multi-year league partnerships. However, a rising tide of lawsuits and enforcement actions from state and gaming regulators, paired with conflicting federal court rulings, has left compliance requirements far from straightforward. “Prediction markets will shape the U.S. market in 2026. But navigating the gray area between financial trading and traditional sports betting is creating tangible uncertainty for this industry,” said Rasmus Sojmark, CEO and founder of SBC. “This forum will bring together the leaders who are building this space to help the sector understand what lies ahead.” The forum will open with the introductory session, Prediction Markets 101. Dan Zucker, President of Zucker Media Group, will walk through how event contracts evolved from 19th-century economic hedging into a potential billion-dollar vertical. Along the way, he will break down how prediction markets actually operate, why their growth has accelerated so rapidly, and what their rise means for today’s gambling landscape. Over the past 18 months, a number of major U.S. operators have expanded into the prediction markets space. During the session, How Sportsbooks Are Entering the World of Event Contracts, experts Dr. Laila Mintas (CEO, Dr. Mintas Consulting), David Huffman (COO, Sporttrade), and Dustin Gouker (Founder, The Closing Line) will analyze how and why the region’s biggest operators are making the move and whether state-by-state partnerships could prove essential in their strategy. The panel, A Question of Compliance and Integrity, will address the regulatory and compliance challenges facing prediction markets in the U.S. Legal specialist Dan Wallach (Partner, Wallach Legal) will examine the regulatory framework governing event contracts and discuss the lawsuits brought by states and land-based gaming groups and the compliance challenges facing operators. Looking ahead, What’s the Future of Futures?, will examine the long-term impact of prediction markets on the betting industry. Speakers Ilya Beylin (Associate Professor, Seton Hall University School of Law), Robin D Hanson (Associate Professor, George Mason University), and Chris Gerlacher (Senior Political Reporter and Industry Analyst, Prediction News) will discuss the potential consequences of Supreme Court scrutiny and what the future may hold for land-based operators opposing prediction markets and online sportsbooks seeking to integrate them. The topic will also be covered on the Leaders Stage during the panel “The Current State of Prediction Markets in the US.” Experts Joshua B. Sterling (Partner, Milbank) and Alex Kane (CEO, Sporttrade) will examine how prediction markets are evolving across North America and how operators, regulators, and investors are responding to the rapidly changing landscape. The Prediction Markets Forum forms part of SBC Summit Americas’ two-day conference programme. Alongside the Breakout Stage, delegates can attend sessions covering sports betting and casino, payments and technology, regulation and compliance, affiliation, leadership, and player protection across North and Latin America. Secure Your Ticket to SBC Summit Americas: VIP Pass – Our VIP Passes are available for just $700. You’ll have access to the full conference agenda, show floor, complimentary food at our Food Festival and our evening networking events! Expo+ Pass: Includes access to the expo floor and all conference sessions (does not include access to evening networking events). Get Your Expo+ Pass at $95. Complimentary Operator & Affiliate Passes: Operators and affiliates can apply for free passes for SBC Summit Americas, subject to approval. Apply for Your Complimentary Operator Pass | Apply for Your Complimentary Affiliate Pass. 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) - BC.Game has named Kar Kheng Giam as its new Chief Executive Officer, entrusting him with the significant responsibility of guiding the crypto betting brand's often-debated strategic direction. Giam, known as "KK," previously held a position at Coyote Bioscience, a biotechnology research firm based in Beijing that focuses on AI, big data, reagents, and system platforms. He served as Vice President – International at the company from 2021 to 2023, followed by a consultancy role from 2023 to 2025. His initial venture into the gaming and entertainment sector occurred in 2012 when he co-founded both Topgame and Tinymobi. These mobile game development firms, based in Beijing and San Francisco, created casino and social games, such as slots-style offerings. This background likely drew the interest of BC.Game, a company focused on crypto and technology. “BC.Game has cultivated a robust global community through the integration of innovative technology and captivating entertainment experiences,” Giam commented. “I am enthusiastic about assuming this position during a period of considerable opportunity for the company. Given the rising demand for transparent, user-centric platforms and the increasing embrace of crypto in online gaming, we are strategically positioned for global expansion. “My primary objective will be to reinforce our presence in regulated markets, improve the platform experience, and consistently foster trust among our users.” Numerous Factors to Address Giam assumes leadership at BC.Game during a pivotal moment for both the nascent and largely unregulated crypto betting sector, as well as for the broader betting and gaming industry. Increased taxation in Europe and Latin America is considerably impacting the conventional, fiat-based betting market. Regulatory landscapes are also evolving, with national bodies such as the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) and the Dutch KSA showing heightened vigilance towards unlicensed activities. Within the UK, BC.Game is primarily recognized for its football sponsorships, notably serving as the official front-of-shirt sponsor for EFL Championship club and 2015/16 Premier League champions Leicester City FC. Nevertheless, the widespread presence of unlicensed betting firms in English football has generated controversy. Companies such as BC.Game pursue partnerships in English football because of its global appeal, supporting their marketing goals in regions like Asia, Africa, and other territories. The UK government, however, appears poised to prohibit unlicensed sponsors from British sports, with a consultation currently underway. This development could potentially conclude BC.Game’s collaboration with Leicester, although it remained uncertain whether the two parties planned to extend their agreement beyond the current season. Furthermore, uncertainties persist regarding BC.Game’s operational framework and long-term viability. The company held a Curaçao license for an extended period, but following a legal disagreement with the local regulator and reports of bankruptcy in 2024, it has since obtained a license from the Indian Ocean island of Anjouan. The appointment of a new CEO, particularly one with Giam's extensive experience in the technology sector, indicates BC.Game's strong confidence in having navigated these challenges successfully. Recently, the company has focused on expanding into Africa, exemplified by securing licenses and sponsorship agreements in Kenya last year. It is also presumably monitoring discussions concerning the potential for regulated crypto betting, for instance in Estonia, with considerable interest. 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 Dutch gambling regulator has once again targeted JOI Gaming, which operates the Jack’s Casino brand. Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) disclosed that it reached out to the company regarding a marketing violation highlighted in an anonymous tip, which alerted the regulator to a Jack’s Casino advertisement appearing on the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) website. According to the KSA, although the logo placement itself isn't the main problem, JOI Gaming violated regulations because clicking the logo redirected users to the Jack’s Casino online platform. This constitutes a direct breach of the Netherlands' domestic gambling regulations, which forbid both untargeted iGaming advertising and sports sponsorships by online gambling operators. These provisions were launched in July 2025 as part of a broader reform initiative to revise the Remote Gaming Act (KOA), a process that remains ongoing. The legislative changes also prohibit the use of influencers for gambling promotion—a restriction JOI Gaming has previously violated. In December, the company received a €400,000 penalty (£346,000) for an offense from 2023 that occurred during a major motorsports event. On this occasion, the KSA noted that JOI Gaming promptly adhered to the warning by removing the link from the PDC site, which may prevent further regulatory measures. The entire issue could have been prevented had JOI adopted the same approach it uses in unlicensed markets such as the UK. Customers in the UK can freely visit the PDC website, where the Jack’s Casino logo appears in the Partners section. However, since neither Jack’s nor JOI currently holds a license from the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), clicking the logo simply returns users to the PDC website. 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.