Category: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) - “CIRSA is significantly undervalued,” Chairman Joaquim Agut told investors of the historic Spanish gambling group. This message was conveyed at the first shareholders' meeting of Grupo CIRSA, which finalized its first accounts on the Spanish stock exchange in 2025, following its long-awaited IPO in July. During the meeting, Agut announced a special dividend of €75 million for investors, amounting to €0.45 per share, representing approximately 35% of the €118 million in adjusted net profit recorded in the FY2025 accounts. 2025 was a landmark year for CIRSA, which solidified its status as Spain's largest gambling company by reporting corporate income of €2.3 billion and record EBITDA of €736 million, a 7% rise compared to the previous year. CIRSA victim of wider anxieties This peak financial performance occurred against the backdrop of a transformative IPO for Spanish gambling, as CIRSA debuted on the Spanish stock exchange at €15 per share, achieving a valuation of €2.5 billion and entering the IBEX Top 50. However, despite these achievements, the CIRSA share price has remained stagnant in the €13-to-€14 range, a situation Agut believes severely undervalues the company's prospects. Agut, who has served as Executive Chairman of CIRSA since Blackstone's private equity acquisition in 2018, believes the current undervaluation reflects broader investor concerns regarding the gambling sector rather than CIRSA's underlying performance. As a listed gambling company, Agut noted that CIRSA has been exposed to persistent sector anxieties, emphasizing that “the company's stock market performance does not reflect its operational reality” – a situation driven not by internal factors, but by the wider dynamics shaping global gambling markets. He specifically pointed to “the emergence of predictive betting models in the United States and increased gambling taxes in the United Kingdom,” developments he said have triggered widespread declines across listed gambling stocks since the start of 2026. Proven player with undervalued strategy Despite these pressures, Agut has maintained that CIRSA has consistently outperformed both market conditions and listed peers, sustaining a clear growth trajectory since 2018. He added that he remains confident that investors will ultimately recognize the group's intrinsic value. “The IPO allowed the company to reduce its financial burden while maintaining a high level of investment to support growth, alongside lower debt and the continuation of a strong shareholder return policy,” Agut continued. Consequently, CIRSA has fulfilled its strategic pledge to become the highest-valued Spanish gambling group, underpinned by a disciplined, value-led M&A strategy that continues to shape its expansion profile. Growth has been driven by targeted acquisitions across core and emerging markets, with 17 deals completed in 2025 and early 2026, including four new casino assets in Peru, Casino Marrakech, and Spanish gaming machines distributor Comatel. Under Agut's tenure, CIRSA has executed over 150 acquisitions, with management maintaining that each has been earnings accretive while strengthening the group's footprint across Latin America, Africa, and Southern Europe. This strategy has positioned CIRSA as one of the most geographically diversified operators among European-listed gambling firms. These transactions reflect a clear focus on scalable assets capable of delivering immediate earnings contribution “We have built a model where growth is both disciplined and repeatable,” Agut stated. “Our M&A strategy is focused on assets that complement our operational strengths and deliver sustainable value over the long term.” All eyes on Blackstone Currently, Blackstone holds 74% of CIRSA's share capital, while institutional investors account for 21%, and retail investors make up the remaining 5%. In Spain, analysts continue to scrutinize how Blackstone will ultimately divest its majority stake. Addressing the recent sale of a 4% holding, Agut reiterated that such a move had already been outlined in the IPO prospectus, “so it should not surprise the market.” Attention will now turn to Blackstone's next steps and its positioning within global gambling equities – an asset class facing renewed pressure from macroeconomic headwinds, including rising energy costs and inflation, which are certain to have deep impacts in Spain and Latin America. Despite these external challenges, Agut remains confident that CIRSA can sustain its growth trajectory and outperform both domestic competitors and listed global peers The investment case is further supported by analyst sentiment, as “14 banks covering the stock maintain “buy” recommendations and set an average target price of €20.6 per share – almost 50% above current trading levels.. Agut concluded that “Cirsa has improved its financial profile with lower debt, reduced financing costs, and greater flexibility, while gaining institutional visibility at a time when the listed gambling sector has faced external turbulence”. 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) - Cambodian authorities have closed 91 casinos alleged to be facilitating online fraud networks, shortly after China called for stricter measures against cross-border gambling. As reported by the Xinhua News Agency, Phnom Penh has additionally conducted raids on 250 online scam centers over the last nine months and expelled more than 13,000 foreigners connected to these operations. During a visit to the Cambodian Prime Minister last Wednesday (22 April), Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi pressed the leader and his administration to enhance their crackdown on cross-border gambling and online fraud, framing them as public safety concerns. The Cambodian government has consistently pledged to tackle scam compounds operating within its borders, a commitment strengthened by the enactment of its inaugural cybercrime law aimed at prosecuting online scam offenders. The specific casinos affected by the closures are not yet public, but shutting down 91 venues is a component of a broader Cambodian government initiative to combat unlawful gambling. This effort has gained urgency after recent findings connected numerous nationwide casinos to serious abuses associated with scam compounds. Nevertheless, ongoing allegations about scam centers in Cambodia indicate that Phnom Penh faces a protracted struggle as it devises new strategies to curb illegal gambling. Measures by Cambodian authorities aim to alter the course and disrupt the growth of scam centers, which expanded rapidly after the ban on online gambling licenses in 2019. The presence of many operators has persisted since then, and the spread of these scam centers has become a detrimental burden on the national economy. Despite government initiatives, Cambodia continues to be an attractive location due to gaps in its regulatory system and its geographical closeness to Mainland China and Vietnam. While government intervention is crucial, enforcement efforts are largely reactive, attempting to close a gap after allowing these centers a multi-year head start. Yi's trip is part of a larger Chinese campaign to rally Southeast Asian nations for regional collaboration against transnational cybercrime. His regional tour also included meetings with high-level officials from Myanmar and Thailand. Per Xinhua, Myanmar's Foreign Minister U Tin Maung stressed his nation's dedication to escalating its fight against online gambling and telecommunications fraud. He added that Myanmar would "never allow any activities that harm China’s interests" on its soil. A major driver behind China's push to prevent Cambodia and other Southeast Asian nations from becoming hubs for gambling and casino-related crime is the growing evidence that Chinese citizens are frequently leading these criminal ventures in the region. The recent cooperation between China and Cambodia in apprehending and extraditing Chen Zhi underscores a distinct strategic partnership between the two countries. Additionally, China's drive to maintain certain standards in Southeast Asia's gambling scene helps secure Macau's continued prosperity as the region's premier gambling destination. Last year, President Xi notably intervened in the development of Thailand's ultimately failed land-based casino bill, cautioning about the potential for regulated gambling to increase local crime—an action widely interpreted as safeguarding Macau's status. 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 Star Entertainment Group has begun to realize the benefits of its cost-reduction strategies, as its EBITDA showed a marked improvement during the third quarter compared to the same timeframe last year, despite remaining in negative territory. Among the cost-cutting steps taken by the Australian casino firm is a refinancing deal with WhiteHawk Capital Partners. This follows binding long-term agreements with Chow Tai Fook Enterprises Limited and Far East Consortium International Limited concerning the Queen’s Wharf Brisbane and Gold Coast properties. Organizational streamlining occurred at the group’s headquarters, which are now under fresh management following the finalization of a A$300m strategic investment from Bally’s Corporation and Investment Holdings late last year. In its report, The Star stated: “Additional measures, such as those targeting administrative roles at each site and prospects for lowering indirect costs and vendor outlays, are still being investigated to bolster The Star's long-term financial health and further solidify the group’s fiscal standing.” The Star sees EBITDA growth For the third quarter ending March 31, 2026, The Star posted revenue of AUS$266m (roughly €163.2m), representing a 12% decline from the second quarter ($301m) and a 1% drop year-over-year (Q3 2025: $268m). Nevertheless, EBITDA rose by 96% year-over-year to a $1m loss (compared to a $24m loss in Q3 FY25) before accounting for significant items. As of March 31, 2026, available cash was $90m. The Star attributed the Q3 performance to a "seasonal dip in revenue and lower gaming traffic in Sydney." While EBITDA improved, the operator reiterated that its "status as a going concern continues to hinge on the resolution of several significant uncertainties," many of which are linked and beyond its influence. Image: Max Stoliar/Shutterstock Performance by location: The Star Sydney: Revenue – $147m, EBITDA – $4m loss. The Star Gold Coast: Revenue – $101m, EBITDA – $8m. The Star Brisbane: Revenue – $15m, EBITDA – $4m loss. Treasury Brisbane: Revenue – $3m, EBITDA – $1m loss. Last month, the New South Wales Independent Casino Commission (NICC) once again pushed back the license suspension for The Star Sydney, with Nicolas Weeks set to continue as the facility's manager until September 30, 2026, unless his tenure is ended sooner. NICC Chief Commissioner Philip Crawford remarked at the time: “The current ownership is implementing major operational changes, which the NICC is tracking closely. “This involves efforts to ensure the business is more financially viable over the long term, helping them prove their suitability. We will persist in collaborating with The Star on their remediation goals so the casino can address the grave issues identified in the two Bell inquiries.” 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 study conducted by the University of Cambridge has intensified the discussion surrounding gambling advertisements in Ireland, coinciding with broader concerns about the gambling industry's societal effects within the nation. Ireland is currently undergoing a period of regulatory reform, with the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI) now overseeing the country’s betting market as mandated by the 2024 Gambling Regulation Act. Similar to the review of the Gambling Act in the United Kingdom, the re-regulation of Ireland's betting market has left proponents of gambling reform, such as the Labour Party, advocating for more substantial changes to advertising regulations. According to research jointly undertaken by the University of Cambridge and Munster Technological University (MTU) in Cork, gambling advertisements in Ireland disproportionately affect young men. The university's study examined social media advertising through the Meta Ad library, analyzing published advertisements and demographic data across platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Dr Elena Petrovskaya, the lead author of the report from the university’s Department of Computer Science and Technology, noted that "not that many adverts directly targeted men to begin with." However, she elaborated: "But even when adverts were set to reach all genders, they still reached that very vulnerable group of young men. “It shows that if companies just put ads on social media, they are still reaching young men – the group we know from other research is most at risk of gambling harms.” Cambridge researchers analyzed 411 advertisements from 88 licensed Irish operators, concluding that young men were 2.3 times more likely to be exposed to social media advertisements than women, despite the ads not being specifically targeted at men. Individuals in the 25-34 age group constituted one-third of all unique accounts reached, accumulating 6.2 million impressions. The researchers highlighted one particular advertisement that reached 1.32 million unique accounts. Irish advertising debate continues unabated The discourse concerning gambling in Ireland, much like in other significant European gambling markets such as the UK, Netherlands, and Italy, has largely centered on sponsorship arrangements. The presence of bookmaker branding in prominent Irish sports competitions, including the Gaelic football and hurling leagues of the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) and the League of Ireland (LOI), has been a contentious issue for many years. The GAA ultimately decided to cease partnerships with gambling sponsors, citing concerns regarding customer protection and societal impact. The LOI, in contrast to its English counterparts in the EFL and the governing bodies of the Premier League, has been more reluctant to sever commercial ties with the sport due to the revenue generated. The Gambling Regulation Act and the GRAI's mandate are now established, with the latter assuming licensing responsibilities this year. Nevertheless, certain political figures, such as Labour Party leader Ivana Bacik, remain firm in their conviction that a comprehensive ban on gambling advertising in Ireland is essential. Research from institutions like Cambridge and MTU is expected to play a significant role in this debate, particularly given its focus on the impact of social media advertising, adding another dimension to a discussion that has predominantly revolved around sports sponsorships and television commercials. The findings from the researchers regarding the impact of advertising on young men, who according to Irish government statistics are among those most susceptible to gambling-related harm, will be particularly important for advocates of gambling reform. “This research provides valuable insights that establish a baseline for the reach of gambling advertising on social media in Ireland before the introduction of a regulatory framework,” stated Dr Deirdre Leahy from MTU, a co-author of the research. “This baseline will be essential for assessing the impact of reforms under the Gambling Regulation Act.” 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) - Australia’s leading casino brand The Star Entertainment Group has recorded a major year-on-year improvement, reporting an AU$1m (£530,000) loss for Q3 2026, down from a $24m loss in the same quarter of 2025. That said, the quarter was slightly weaker than Q2, with revenue falling and profitability slipping back into negative territory, as regulatory pressures and lower visitor numbers continued to weigh on performance. Group revenue landed at $266m, down 12% quarter-on-quarter and slightly lower than the $268m recorded in the prior corresponding period. The company posted an EBITDA loss of $1m, reversing the $6m profit it gained in Q2, though the result is still a marked improvement on 2025 figures driven by cost-cutting efforts. Declines were largely fueled by ongoing soft performance in Sydney, where revenue dropped 10% versus the previous quarter and 9% year-on-year. Table games were a particular weak point, and the impact of mandatory carded play and cash limits continues to be felt – average daily revenue at the Sydney property is still roughly 20% below pre-reform levels. Examples of these regulatory reforms include a $100 cash load-up limit for Victorian poker machines and a delayed rollout of $1,000 daily cash limits at New South Wales casinos, where the limit will remain at $5,000 until August 2027. Across other locations, performance was mixed. The Gold Coast delivered modest year-on-year growth, supported by stronger electronic gaming and hospitality results, while Brisbane’s numbers were impacted by the transition out of the Destination Brisbane Consortium (DBC) joint venture and changes to the operator fee structure. Cost reductions were a clear positive highlight, with operating expenses falling 11% quarter-on-quarter and 10% year-on-year. This reflects the early impact of “cost out” initiatives launched by the company’s new leadership team, including corporate streamlining and reviews of supplier costs. Latest updates on The Star’s turnaround plan Even so, The Star’s broader overall financial position remains fragile. Available cash dropped to $90m at the end of March, and the company is working against a tight deadline to complete refinancing by 15 May to avoid breaching its existing debt agreement. A binding refinancing commitment with WhiteHawk Capital Partners, announced at the end of last month, is already in place, and all required regulatory approvals have been secured. The refinancing package consists of a three-year facility totaling around $550m, which will be used to fully refinance the group’s existing debt while also providing extra liquidity. A minimum liquidity requirement of $50m has been set for the first 12 months after financial close, which the company is on track to meet. The requirement rises to $75m between 12 and 18 months post-close, and $100m after that period. Additional covenants include a minimum asset coverage ratio starting December 2026 and a minimum EBITDA threshold starting March 2027, alongside standard reporting obligations and default provisions. An interest reserve account that will cover the first 12 months of interest payments will also be set up as part of the new financing structure. “The Star is working to complete the refinancing as soon as possible, but no later than 15 May 2026, to meet the conditions of the waiver granted by existing SFA lenders,” a company statement read. The Star has also made progress on its strategic reset, completing the first stage of its exit from the Brisbane joint venture with DBC. This step included the release of a large parent company guarantee tied to $1.4bn in debt facilities. Financial challenges will not be resolved immediately Despite these recent steps, The Star has reiterated that material uncertainty remains over its ability to continue as a going concern, with multiple interconnected factors including refinancing, regulatory outcomes and operational recovery still unresolved. Bruce Mathieson Jnr, the company’s current Chief Executive Officer, has continued advancing the turnaround strategy, which included appointing two new Non-Executive Directors – Brooke Lindsay and Grant Bowie – this month. The business remains in a transitional period following a $300m strategic investment from Bally’s Corporation and Investment Holdings late last year, a deal that will eventually give Bally’s a 56.7% stake in The Star. The company is also navigating ongoing regulatory change across Australia, where a key recent policy focus has been cracking down on gambling advertising. The Murphy report, written by late MP Peta Murphy and holding 31 recommendations for Australian regulatory reform, has still not seen most of its suggestions implemented across the country. For The Star, an immediate return to profitability was always highly unlikely. Despite the unavoidable pressures it faces from both internal and external sources, the company is in a much healthier position today than it was at the start of 2025, when it was grappling with losses of more than $300m. 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) - Tipico Sportwetten has kicked off a new “leadership era”, with Mate Bacic taking over from Axel Hefer as Chief Executive Officer of the largest sports betting and iGaming brand operating in the DACH region. This leadership transition follows Hefer’s decision to resign from the new leadership team of Banijay Gaming – the division established in April 2025, after Banijay Group finalized its €3 billion acquisition of Tipico. Hefer’s exit comes after he fulfilled his remit of restructuring Tipico to position it for an eventual multi-billion-euro sale. During his three-year tenure, the company pulled out of the US market, selling its domestic US operations to MGM Resorts, and purchased Admiral Austria to boost its regional presence. The business ultimately became an acquisition target itself, when its former private equity owner CVC Capital reached an agreement to sell Tipico to Banijay in October 2025. Speaking about his departure, Hefer said: “I joined the Tipico Group nearly three years ago with one clear goal: to lay the groundwork for the company’s future international growth. Now that the sale to Banijay Group is complete, my work here has been successfully finished. “I am fully confident that with Mate Bacic leading the company and as part of Banijay Gaming, Tipico is extremely well positioned for future success. I wish Mate and the entire team all the best in the coming years.” New leadership steers the business into its next chapter Bacic, who has held executive roles at Tipico for almost a decade, has been promoted to the CEO position from the group’s existing senior leadership ranks. As Managing Director of Tipico Retail Services, he played a key role in building and restructuring the operator’s land-based retail network, which now covers more than 1,250 outlets across Germany and Austria. Most recently, he oversaw the integration of Admiral Austria into the wider group during his tenure as CEO of the Atlas Group. Before joining Tipico, Bacic held senior leadership positions at Telefónica Germany, bringing deep operational and commercial expertise to his new top role. Discussing his new appointment, Bacic said: “I am thrilled to lead Tipico through this critical phase for the business. We have a powerful brand, a highly committed team, and trusted partners supporting us. Working alongside Banijay, we will speed up innovation efforts, invest in technology, and set new benchmarks for customer service.” He added: “We aim to deliver the best and most secure experience possible for sports betting fans — both online and across our more than 1,250 retail shops. I also want to thank Axel for his reliable partnership and his significant contributions to putting Tipico in such a strong position for the future.” Credit: Tobias Arhelger / Shutterstock Under the revised leadership structure, Nicolas Béraud, former Betclic CEO, will serve as Chairman of the Board of Banijay Gaming. Joachim Baca, Chairman and former CEO of Tipico, will act as Vice-Chairman of the Board. Operational leadership roles across the group’s core brand portfolio have also been reshuffled, with Julien Brun, previously Chief Operational Officer, stepping into the role of CEO of Betclic. Banijay’s leadership team has given its full endorsement to this internal succession, with Béraud stating: “Following the completion of Banijay Gaming’s acquisition of the Tipico Group, I am convinced that Mate, with his extensive industry experience, in-depth understanding of the Tipico Group, and strong leadership capabilities, will make a major contribution to building our large-scale European gaming platform. “Axel was an exceptional partner throughout the Betclic/Tipico transaction, and I wish him all the best for the next chapter of his career.” 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) - Flutter Entertainment has committed an additional £1.5 million to responsible gambling and player safety, establishing a new specialised centre at a key UK headquarters. Based at the company's Leeds, West Yorkshire, headquarters, the 'Centre of Excellence' is designed to be a hub for collaboration, learning, and innovation in responsible gambling and customer protection. This initiative is part of a broader strategy on safer gambling tools. Flutter has a goal of having 75% of its customers use these tools by 2030. The parent company of Sky Bet, Paddy Power, and Betfair reports the current usage rate is 60%. The new centre will be home to Flutter's 450-member customer safety team, providing a space for them to create and trial new technological solutions in this area. The hub's launch coincides with the Ethical Gambling Forum being held at Flutter's Leeds office. Steve Hoare, editor of SBC's Player Protection Hub, will moderate two sessions at the event. Richard Clarke, Flutter’s Managing Director of Customer Product, stated: “We are extremely proud to host the Ethical Gambling Forum in Leeds, which we see as recognition of our industry-leading stance on customer safety. “In the past year, we have completely overhauled our systems and integrated AI modelling to enhance our monitoring of risky behaviours. We continuously invest in, enhance, and perfect our market-leading systems that take proactive steps to promote positive play and more considered decision-making. “Our goal is to pioneer, develop, and ultimately establish a benchmark for data-driven customer safety for the entire industry, from here in Leeds.” Flutter reinforces RG commitment in UK&I Flutter's emphasis on responsible gaming and corporate social responsibility has a long history. The company has notably engaged with startups in these fields. Its Alpha Hub, a technology unit launched in 2018 to focus on startup collaboration, has worked with new companies on responsible gaming and other projects. Globally, the firm invested £100 million in safer gambling capabilities during 2024, reflecting its extensive international presence from the UK and Ireland to the US, where it owns the FanDuel brand. From that £100 million total investment in 2024, £65 million was allocated to the UK and Ireland. These markets, where Flutter originated from the 2016 merger of Paddy Power and Betfair, continue to be a central focus for the group and its responsible gambling objectives. Last week, the company revealed a partnership in Ireland with EPIC Global Solutions, an organisation dedicated to gambling harm prevention education. The collaboration focuses on the League of Ireland (LOI), Ireland's top professional football league. The partners are creating a gambling awareness programme for all 32 senior men's and women's teams over three years. Flutter is financing the effort, which involves 70 workshops aiming to engage 2,000 participants annually. Scott Davies, Irish football player and manager, attending the EPIC / LOI event – Source; EPIC Global Solutions The schedule features 32 sessions for senior LOI teams, covering 20 men's and 12 women's sides; 26 sessions for academy clubs, including U-17 men's and women's teams; plus 10 sessions for Women’s Development League senior teams and one session for match officials. A workshop has also been conducted for Football Association Ireland (FAI) staff. More than 100 FAI employees attended a session on 21 April, led by Manchester-based EPIC. EPIC has a lengthy track record of collaborating with Flutter, including on projects in the US with FanDuel, and with other leading betting operators such as William Hill. On the new education programme, LOI Director Mark Scanlon commented: “We were very pleased to observe the initial effects of our partnership with EPIC, and the early outcomes confirm our dedication to proactive education. “The surge in integrity awareness – especially within our women’s teams, from 53% to 94% – demonstrates that this education is truly resonating with players and creating tangible change. “We anticipate expanding the education programme to our clubs' academy teams in the coming months and are sure this preventative strategy will yield substantial benefits throughout the three-year partnership.” Soon after announcing the EPIC and LOI partnership, Flutter revealed the winners of the Tech4Good Awards 2025, another example of the NYSE-listed firm engaging with both charitable and technology startup sectors. 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) - Betsson is opting to avoid several major Western European gambling hubs due to recent regulatory shifts and operational hurdles, according to CEO Pontus Lindwall. During a recent appearance on the iGaming Daily podcast, Lindwall discussed the company's first-quarter financial results. Total group revenue for the period fell 3% year-on-year to €285.3m, compared to €294m in Q1 2025. B2B earnings saw a sharp decline to €51m from €90m in the prior year's quarter, while B2C revenue grew by 15%. Despite the overall dip, Betsson saw double-digit year-on-year growth in both Western Europe (€61.3m) and Latin America (€93m), maintaining momentum in those regions despite broader challenges. Lindwall remarked: “The Latin American market is somewhat behind Europe in its development cycle. This means online gaming hasn't fully penetrated the region yet, leading us to believe there is significant structural growth potential in many of these markets moving forward.” Pontus Lindwall, Chief Executive Officer of Betsson. Image: Betsson “We hold strong positions in several of these territories. We are clearly the leader in Argentina and well-placed elsewhere, supported by established brand recognition and proven technology. We remain very positive about our future in the region,” he added. Latin American revenue rose 24.7% year-on-year to €93m (up from €74.5m in Q1 2025), with gains in Colombia and Peru, while performance in Argentina remained stable compared to the previous year. In Western Europe, revenue increased by 10.3% to €61.3m (up from €55.6m in Q1 2025). Italy hit record revenue levels and France showed growth, though Belgium experienced a decline. These results come even as Betsson remains absent from the UK and Germany, two of the region's largest markets. Betsson maintains distance from the UK Lindwall noted that the regulatory path taken by some European nations has made them unviable for the company's operations. “Western Europe as a whole is an unfortunate situation in many respects. We’ve seen regulatory shifts that actually work against the goals of creating a properly regulated and taxable gaming sector,” he explained. “As a major player, Betsson is largely staying out of several of Europe’s biggest markets, including the UK and Germany. While these are powerful nations with deep gaming traditions and strong economies, we do not view them as investible for our company, so we are leaving those opportunities to others. “The environment in Italy and certain other markets is different, offering a better climate for investment and growth. However, much of Europe is now highly saturated, which isn't the case everywhere else,” he continued. In other regions, Nordic revenue fell 16.9% to €31.4m (from €37.8m in Q1 2025), while Central & Eastern Europe and Central Asia (CEECA) dropped 21.8% to €95.7m (from €122.3m). Revenue from the rest of the world reached €3.9m. Betsson’s Q1 casino earnings decreased 4% to €203.8m, while sportsbook revenue saw a slight uptick to €80.2m. The company's EBITDA fell 36% to €50m, with margins narrowing to 17.5%. EBIT dropped 47% to €34m, and net income also declined by 47% to €25.5m. During the podcast, Lindwall also touched on Betsson’s Canadian strategy following the acquisition of Rhino Entertainment and discussed the company's preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Interested in more industry news? Visit the SBC Media YouTube Channel, the central hub for multimedia content at SBC, featuring in-depth coverage of the sports betting, iGaming, affiliate, and payments sectors. 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) - Social media platforms are growing increasingly saturated with anonymous accounts sharing the same viral clips. At first glance, there may seem to be no clear pattern to why these accounts post identical videos. But a closer look reveals an entire industry of “clippers”, who are paid to edit and distribute content across social media platforms, with their earnings directly tied to the number of views each clip receives. Anthony Fujiwara, Founder of Clipping, one of the companies leading the industrialization of this content strategy, told Forbes that top-earning clippers can make between $30,000 and $40,000 per month. Clipping can charge clients as little as a few cents per million views, meaning advertising costs through this clipping model are far lower than through other traditional advertising channels. Brands or content creators will often share content via Google Drive for clippers to download and repost through their own personal accounts. He stated in his interview with Forbes: “I remember a traditional platform charging $25,000 for one million views. For us, a million views could cost somewhere between just a hundred dollars to a thousand dollars.” According to Bloomberg, Clipping generated $7.7m in revenue last year, and counts major industry giants including Netflix and Amazon Prime among its largest clients. But how does gambling connect to this practice? Multiple studies have repeatedly shown that illegal gambling operators target players through social media, since the platform faces far less regulation than other advertising channels. The chance to go viral on social media also makes clipping a far more lucrative opportunity for many gambling brands. In previous cases, clips of streamers such as Adin Ross playing on platforms like Stake have been shared thousands of times over by fan accounts, boosting the brand’s visibility to potentially millions of potential players. For policymakers and regulators in markets such as the UK, where MPs are currently pushing for stricter gambling advertising rules, this clipping practice creates a major challenge. Social media clips featuring the logos of Stake and fellow crypto casino Rainbet also appeared in Louis Theroux’s documentary investigating the ‘manosphere’, and were almost certainly produced by editors working under a similar model to Clipping’s. The people posting these clips are based all around the world. Fujiwara noted that Clipping’s top earners are based in countries including India, the Philippines and Serbia – meaning that enforcement agencies are often dependent on social media platforms themselves to take action. However, already this year, the Gambling Commission’s Executive Director of Research and Policy, Tim Miller, has publicly criticized Meta for failing to crack down on illegal gambling advertising.For social media companies, there is little incentive to remove these short clips, because the views they generate also create a revenue stream for the platform itself. Furthermore, even if platforms do ban accounts or remove content, the highly profitable nature of clipping means content posters will simply create new accounts to continue their work. The whole process effectively becomes a game of whack-a-mole. Forbes noted that the majority of clipping campaigns do not include required paid promotion labels, as mandated by government regulators such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). However, the general consensus is that the FTC is unlikely to take enforcement action against small micro-influencers posting these clips. In a recent Westminster Hall Debate, Dr Beccy Cooper MP, Vice Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Gambling Reform, stated that she believes black market advertising can be tackled – pointing to the success of the UK’s crackdown on the black market tobacco industry after the country introduced new regulations around the sale and promotion of tobacco products. But making a meaningful impact on the scale of black market advertising across social media comes with inherently different challenges, given that the entire activity takes place in a digital space. For example, unlike illicit tobacco suppliers, black market advertisers do not need a physical location to store stock, meaning they can easily stay well out of reach of enforcement action. Newly released research confirms that advertising spend for black market operators in the UK is set to keep rising, while spend for the regulated gambling sector is declining, so brands like Stake and Rainbet have an entire army of editors ready to share viral content featuring their logos with a captivated audience of millions. 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) - Novibet has named Yiannis Stravroulas as its new Chief Technology Officer, tasking him with a primary focus on integrating AI and other modern technologies. The Greek-headquartered operator is a dominant force in its domestic market and Cyprus, while maintaining a significant international presence across eight additional nations. Since the launch of Brazil's regulated online betting and iGaming sector on January 1, 2025, Novibet has been operational there, alongside its activities in Mexico, Ecuador, Chile, Canada, Finland, and Ireland. In an official announcement regarding the appointment, the company highlighted that the new CTO will be instrumental in achieving its objective of becoming a ‘global GameTech company’. Stravroulas, who previously served as Chief Operations Officer at the Greek IT organization Cognity, is responsible for strengthening Novibet’s technical infrastructure to support its growth, product development, and user experience. “Joining Novibet represents a significant move beyond my comfort zone,” Stavroulas shared via LinkedIn. “I am entering this role backed by my experience and thrilled by the prospect of evolving alongside a company that is growing at roughly 30% annually and expanding rapidly across 10 countries on three continents!” “In this environment, technology is not merely a support tool but a fundamental pillar of the business—the engine driving the entire organization forward.” Is technology the key to market leadership? The emphasis on technology may become increasingly vital for Novibet as competition intensifies in its active regions, both from other licensed entities and the unregulated sector. For instance, Brazil currently hosts more than 79 operators licensed by the Ministry of Finance’s Secretary of Prizes and Bets (SPA). The nation is also continuing its long-standing struggle against an established black market. Meanwhile, in Finland, Novibet is preparing for the transition to a multi-license system as the government dismantles the Veikkaus Oy monopoly. This shift is expected to trigger a competitive scramble for market dominance. The high level of competition in these territories underscores the necessity for technological excellence and operational efficiency, which are critical for firms like Novibet. Stravroulas’ arrival follows the recent cancellation of a deal that would have seen Allwyn acquire a majority stake in Novibet, a move blocked by the Hellenic Competition Commission (HCC). Following the termination of the Allwyn agreement, Novibet confirmed its commitment to its strategic roadmap, emphasizing that it will continue to utilize its proprietary platform and advanced technology as primary competitive assets. 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) - Entain faced further stock market woes today following confirmation that a major shareholder, Eminence Capital, is closing after 27 years. Around 12:20 GMT, shares in the LSE-listed company fell 7.04% to 557.4p, as investors reacted to the potential share overhang from the hedge fund's impending exit. Founded by Ricky Sandler, Eminence is believed to own approximately 6.5% of Entain, ranking as its third-largest investor after Capital Group and Dodge & Cox. The worry for the market is that Eminence will need to sell its holdings as it liquidates and returns money to clients, creating the risk of ongoing selling pressure on Entain's stock in the short term. In a client letter, Sandler confirmed the shutdown of the New York fund he started in the late 1990s, pointing to poor performance, higher costs, and tougher market dynamics. The firm, which manages about $6bn (£4.42m), plans to return at least 75% of investor capital by mid-to-late June as part of a structured closure. “In recent years, applying our disciplined bottom-up investment approach to fast-changing markets and an evolving structure has grown increasingly hard,” Sandler wrote in a letter obtained by Bloomberg. “We feel we have not met our own lofty standards or your expectations in recent times. “I have immense pride in the Eminence team, the business and culture we created, and the quality of our investors. “The firm has been much more than just a career to me. It has been a central part of my life.” Ricky Sandler. Credit: Eminence Capital Eminence has struggled with performance for an extended period, even though its disclosed portfolio contained notable names like Amazon and Salesforce, which comprised a significant 10% portion. Entain may not be the only casualty of Eminence’s shutdown Reports indicate the fund also has a minor stake in Flutter Entertainment and roughly 8.43 million shares, worth about $290m, in another prominent US gambling firm, DraftKings. Eminence's closure has not negatively affected Flutter's share price in London, where its stock is up 1.5% today to 8,244p. However, observers are cautious about the potential impact on DraftKings, considering Entain's sharp decline. DraftKings, traded on the NYSE at $23.18 per share, has received a ‘Strong Sell’ rating from one analyst. Others remain hopeful that excitement around prediction markets will aid the company following its launch of DraftKings Predictions. It became the second major US betting operator to introduce a predictions platform, after Fanatics, and pipped its key rival FanDuel – owned by Flutter – to the post. Beyond prediction markets, all three companies have endured a difficult year on the markets. Entain's shares have fallen over 10% in London in the past 12 months, while Flutter is down more than 50% on the NYSE and DraftKings has declined 30% on the NASDAQ Global Select Market (New York). Entain also confronts a tougher operating environment in its home UK market, with rising taxes and a growing black market worrying both the regulated sector and the government. A voluntary ban on front-of-shirt sponsorships in the English Premier League starts next year. CEO Stella David has advocated for a full sponsorship ban on unlicensed operators, whose branding is prevalent on shirts and in stadiums. A persistent downturn in UK and Irish retail has also hurt the company, prompting plans to close a significant number of its Irish Ladbrokes shops to reduce costs. Nevertheless, its first-quarter revenue rose 3%, with online revenue in the UK and Ireland exceeding forecasts with 13% growth. This offers a glimmer of hope for the FTSE 100 member, which has a market capitalisation of approximately £3.6bn. Yet the shutdown of Eminence has inflicted another setback on Entain, and the market will watch closely for any effect on DraftKings during a period when gambling firms worldwide have been under pressure. 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) - Amusnet is making a powerful impact across the Baltics following a new partnership with the Lithuanian Muay Thai and kickboxing tournament, UTMA 18. This alliance saw the supplier back the UTMA 18 event, hosted at Kaunas's Žalgiris Arena in Lithuania. With over 13,000 spectators and a main event where Sergej Maslobojev defeated Ignas Pauliukevičius, Amusnet has further extended its influence throughout the Baltic region. In addition to its on-site visibility, Amusnet contributed to conversations on the official UTMA podcast, addressing subjects like the evolution of combat sports and the expectations of today's viewers. Liliya Chatalbasheva, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Amusnet, stated: “As backers of UTMA events locally, we concentrate on projects that enhance the link between sport and spectator experience on a large scale. “Our expansion in the Baltics is founded on partnerships built on trust, ongoing commitment, and significant interaction through both digital channels and live settings.” Amusnet maintains European expansion path Amusnet's progress in Lithuania and the Baltics forms part of its wider European growth strategy. This year, the company already increased its footprint in the Czech and Georgian iGaming sectors by forming agreements with Casino Admiral and Casino Adjara. Chief Technology Officer Lazar Agatonovic recently discussed with iGaming Expert the technology, architecture, and engineering choices that have positioned Amusnet strongly within worldwide regulated markets. “We aimed to develop owned, scalable technology capable of supporting long-term growth in a fiercely competitive industry governed by compliance,” Agatonovic explained. “Early investment in our own architecture and in-house engineering expertise granted us technological autonomy. This allows us to act swiftly, adjust to new regulations, and uphold uniform performance standards in different 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) - With only one month left, the highly anticipated Casino Guru Awards 2026 are entering their final stage, recognizing brands, initiatives, and individuals who are driving transparency, fairness, and significant progress within the global iGaming sector. The Casino Guru Awards, organized by Casino Guru, have established themselves as a standard for trust and responsibility in online gambling. In contrast to conventional industry honors, these awards celebrate those who go beyond mere marketing statements, acknowledging contributors across the ecosystem who actively enhance player protection, effectively resolve issues, and contribute to elevating industry standards. A distinct form of industry recognition Central to the Awards is Casino Guru’s enduring mission: to create a safer online gambling environment for players worldwide. Winners are determined through a combination of data-driven assessments and expert evaluations, leveraging the platform’s extensive database, which includes its Safety Index and Complaint Resolution Center. Following the closure of nominations and finalization of shortlists, the Casino Guru team is now undertaking final evaluations. This phase involves an in-depth review of each nominee’s performance history, including comprehensive discussions with judges and shortlisted candidates to gain a deeper understanding of the impact and substance behind each submission. Concurrently, the Player’s Choice and Voice of the People categories remain open for public voting, offering the broader community an opportunity to voice their opinions. More than just an award “The Casino Guru Awards are not focused on who is the largest or most prominent,” stated Daniela Sliva, PR & Creative Projects Director at Casino Guru. “They are about recognizing those who do the right thing, even when they are not being observed.” Over the years, the Awards have earned industry-wide respect for their integrity and independence, playing a role in establishing higher standards and encouraging operators to prioritize the well-being of players. Mark your calendars The winners of the Casino Guru Awards 2026 will be revealed on May 25 at Xara Lodge in Malta, shortly before the NEXT Valletta conference. This event is designed not only for operators but for all brands and individuals dedicated to advancing the industry. With an anticipated attendance of approximately 150 guests, attendees can anticipate more than just the announcement of the awards, including high-caliber entertainment, valuable networking opportunities, exceptional cuisine, and an afterparty to conclude the evening. As the countdown intensifies, all attention is now directed towards the companies and individuals who are shaping a more transparent and accountable future for online gaming. 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) - Holland Casino and VBET have modified their product offerings following concerns raised by the Dutch Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) regarding football bets available on their platforms. The KSA announced today that it had approached Holland Casino and VBET concerning the availability of "own goals" as a betting market on both operators' websites. The KSA, along with several other national gambling regulators, views betting on the number of own goals in a football match as a threat to sports integrity. In its official guidance on sports integrity, the KSA categorizes bets on own goals alongside events such as time penalties, Formula One car retirements, race red flags, and player injuries as examples of "negative or easily manipulated events." SBC News has contacted Holland Casino and VBET for comment. However, the KSA has confirmed that both companies have since removed the option to bet on own goals from their respective sportsbook platforms. “The KSA addressed both providers on this matter,” the regulator’s statement read. “Subsequently, both Holland Casino Online and VBET adjusted their offerings and removed own-goal bets. “They have also implemented additional control measures to prevent future occurrences. As a result, the KSA considers this matter sufficiently resolved for the time being.” The KSA has valid reasons to carefully consider which types of bets should be permitted, with a focus on safeguarding sports integrity and preventing match manipulation. According to quarterly and annual reports from the International Betting Integrity Association (IBIA), football consistently ranks as one of the two sports most vulnerable to match manipulation attempts and suspicious betting, alongside tennis. The KSA's action against these betting options also occurs amidst ongoing political scrutiny of the Dutch online gaming market. This market has seen substantial growth since its re-regulation under the KOA Act in October 2024, although the regulator itself notes a stagnation in its development. Political concerns regarding betting, its societal impact, and its visibility led to significant advertising restrictions being introduced in 2024, including a ban on sports sponsorship. In March of this year, opposition parties escalated these concerns by calling for a complete prohibition on gambling advertising. 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) - Gibraltar is acting swiftly to establish itself as a leader in technology, making prediction markets and tokenisation core parts of its regulatory approach. In remarks made before his journey to Consensus Miami, Justice, Trade and Industry Minister Nigel Feetham clarified the strategy: move early or face the possibility of falling behind. His statements highlight a focused effort to grow Gibraltar's current digital assets and gaming landscape into related areas, stating the intention to 'lead from the front'. Gibraltar’s jump into predictions The jurisdiction has already started issuing licences to prediction market operators, demonstrating a readiness to act more rapidly than larger regulators who are still evaluating how to categorise and oversee this sector. Nations such as the UK, France, and the Netherlands have all indicated that prediction markets would require gambling licences – a step most firms are reluctant to take as it would label them as gambling businesses. Feetham presented the quick licensing of the widely talked-about ADI Predictstreet in Gibraltar as a competitive edge rather than a regulatory danger, noting that more applications are already underway. He also cited US President Donald Trump, whose government has been considerably more receptive to prediction markets than that of his predecessor, Joe Biden. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) shifted from strong opposition under Biden to initial neutrality and then full support under Trump. “President Trump is right. In a fast-moving global market, countries that stand still risk being left behind,” said Feetham. “That is why Gibraltar is moving at pace across key digital sectors including AI, digital assets, and prediction markets, supporting innovation and expanding the ecosystem we have already built. “We have chosen to act early on the licensing of prediction markets because Gibraltar is not only ensuring it is not left behind, we intend to lead from the front. “We are already seeing strong interest following the recent licensing of an operator and expect to progress a number of new applications.” Nigel Feetham. Credit: LinkedIn Gibraltar keeps eye on emerging tech Tokenisation is the next focus. Draft laws are finished and should be released soon, fulfilling pledges made earlier this year. The goal is to build a clear framework enabling tokenised assets to evolve within a regulated setting, similar to Gibraltar's prior strategy for digital assets. This regulatory drive coincides with prediction markets gaining global momentum, especially around major sports events. As noted, FIFA has entered this arena via a new partnership with ADI Predictstreet. Nevertheless, initial limitations persist. Since ADI Predictstreet is presently licensed only in Gibraltar, its ability to access other regulated markets is restricted. Feetham may well be urging other jurisdictions to emulate Gibraltar, as with a single licence, ADI Predictstreet can only serve Gibraltar's approximately 40,000 residents. Indeed, prediction markets are increasingly featuring next to traditional sports betting and media deals, as shown by recent agreements like Polymarket's partnership with LaLiga's US business arm. However, numerous ethical concerns have been raised – from insider trading and the morality of geopolitical markets, to the argument over whether predictions constitute gambling or a financial service. These concerns were voiced again just this morning, with a gambling addiction expert demanding prediction market regulation in Ireland. Opportunities in prediction markets are evident, driving Gibraltar's speedy action, but hasty regulation could trigger various problems soon, which may be discouraging other European countries from acting. The controversies surrounding Kalshi and Polymarket serve as clear examples of the potential risks. 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) - Authorities in Japan are considering all available measures, including the potential implementation of website blocking, as illegal gambling activities in 2025 have reached unprecedented levels. According to reports from The Japan News, these proposals are currently under discussion by the Internal Affairs and Communications Ministry and have been recognized as a viable strategy for reducing participation in online gambling platforms. However, there are ongoing concerns that enacting these measures could contravene provisions within Japan’s constitution pertaining to the ‘secrecy of any means of communication’. Consequently, the Ministry views website blocking as a measure of last resort, to be employed only if other strategies prove ineffective in combating online gambling. Last week, the National Police Agency reported that enforcement actions were taken against 317 individuals in 2025, marking a record high since data collection began in 2018. Among these individuals, 221 were arrested in connection with online casinos across 158 cases. Online gambling is strictly forbidden in Japan. Nevertheless, data from the NPA estimates that approximately 2 million people engage in online gambling annually, primarily by accessing overseas websites. The total amount wagered by players is estimated to exceed ¥1.24 trillion (£5.76bn) each year. Is website blocking inevitable? The panel tasked with analyzing the implementation of website blocking has stressed that specific criteria must be met before it can be approved. These rules must be deemed necessary and effective, demonstrate a clear societal benefit, and the technical specifications of the blocking system must satisfy the panel’s requirements. Given apprehensions about potential government overreach, which would necessitate internet service providers monitoring all user access, the use of website blocking has been infrequently considered. Currently, such restrictions are exclusively in place to prevent access to child pornography websites. Joji Shishido, a Professor at the University of Tokyo specializing in constitutional law, informed the panel: “Blocking websites is the final action to be taken within the broader effort to eliminate the harm caused by online casinos. “If the measure is to be implemented, the government must adopt a significantly more serious approach to establishing the necessary infrastructure.” Last year, Japan’s government introduced new legislation aimed at combating unlicensed gambling by prohibiting the operation and use of such sites, as well as their promotion through banner advertisements, affiliate marketing, and social media posts. The report indicated that these efforts have shown ‘a certain degree of effectiveness’. However, it is evident that there is a demand for more impactful changes, which website blocking could provide. 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) - Three of the four original founders of the Canadian esports company Rivalry have stepped down, with all three also serving in C-level roles. These departures occur during a period of considerable difficulty for Rivalry. The company suspended its operations in February as a broader initiative to cut expenses, which involved halting all player activity, implementing employee layoffs, and evaluating potential asset sales. Rivalry’s director exodus Rivalry, a business listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX), reported on Friday that five senior executives in total have resigned from its board of directors. Those departing include Ryan White, Kevin Wimer, Steven Isenberg and Demi Abidogun-Benson. White and Wimer established Rivalry in 2016 together with Chief Executive Officer Steven Salz. They served as Chief Technology Officer and Chief Operating Officer, respectively. Steven Salz, CEO of Rivalry – Source: Rivalry Steven Isenberg is the third and final co-founder to depart the company. According to Rivalry’s website, he sits on the local advisory committee for the TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV). He also founded Urbanfund Corp, a real estate firm focused on Toronto that is listed on the TSXV, and was the founder and CEO of M Partners, an investment bank established in 2005. In 2023, Research Capital Corporation, another TSX-listed company, acquired M Partners. During its eight-year existence, the bank employed Rivalry co-founder and CEO Salz as an Equity Research Analyst from 2014 to 2016. The remaining two individuals who resigned were not among the company's 2016 founders. Abidogun-Benson has left her positions on the board and as interim Chief Financial Officer. She originally joined the firm in 2022 as a Senior Manager for corporate reporting, planning, and analysis, later advancing to Head of Finance in August 2024. The last director to resign was Stephen Rigby, the previous President and CEO of the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG). From 2010 to 2015, he acted as National Security Advisor to former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper. Rivalry’s struggle continues Rivalry has historically targeted Gen Z and millennial customers since it began, supported by product design, marketing, and content that leverages internet humor and culture. The company holds licenses in Ontario and Australia, but also operates in several international grey markets using an Isle of Man license. It introduced the casino.exe platform in March 2023, and iGaming has subsequently made up approximately half of its betting volume in quarterly reports. Its move into digital currencies happened even though cryptocurrency gambling is not permitted in Canada or Australia, its two licensed jurisdictions. The company continues to be referred to as a 'crypto casino' in Google search results, although its website has been offline since operations were paused in February. Rivalry started facing challenges on the TSX in 2025 when it was late filing its full-year 2024 financial statement. In April, it sought a management cease trade order from the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC). The subsequent months involved significant cost-cutting measures, including a strategic review and the engagement of New York advisory firm XST Capital Group. 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 recent intervention by the National Monetary Council (CMN) has hindered the growth of prediction market platforms in Brazil. The body responsible for the nation's monetary policy and financial markets has ruled that derivatives must not be connected to events in sports, politics, or entertainment. Authorized by Banco Central do Brasil (BCB) President Gabriel Galípolo, Resolution No. 5,298 implements this ruling starting on 4 May. Financial institutions are prohibited from creating or providing contracts associated with political, electoral, social, cultural, or entertainment occurrences under this new policy. This move by the CMN supports the safeguards established in the Bets Law (Law No. 14.790/2023), the federal legislation for online betting and sports gambling that took effect on 1 January 2025. The CMN stated in its announcement that this ruling “comes amid the popularisation of prediction market platforms in Brazil, which operate without their own regulation, unlike the betting sector.” Focus is now shifting to the US prediction market operator Kalshi, which gained entry to the Brazilian market in January through a collaboration with XP Inc., marketing its platform as an investment vehicle for local users. During the launch, it was reported that the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting (SPA) had been approached by numerous licensed operators filing complaints, calling for regulatory action to prevent Kalshi from entering the market. This launch in Brazil represented Kalshi’s initial foray into international markets. The firm was co-established by Luana Lopes Lara (COO), who became the youngest self-made female billionaire in 2025. Kalshi recently closed a $1bn funding round in the US, bringing its total valuation to $22bn. As of April 2026, the company’s aggregate venture capital funding has surpassed $2.5bn. The sharp increase in Kalshi’s valuation has fueled comparisons with major US-listed gambling entities like Flutter Entertainment and DraftKings, as investors evaluate the potential of prediction markets relative to conventional sports betting. Even with this obstacle, a regulatory void persists for Kalshi and similar entities. The Brazilian Securities and Exchange Commission (CVM) is currently observing the industry, yet a specific regulatory schedule for prediction markets has not been defined. As the CMN clamps down on derivatives based on events, the opportunity for prediction markets to function within Brazil’s regulatory grey area seems to be narrowing. Kalshi’s arrival has highlighted a regulatory discrepancy, as officials work to bridge the divide between financial markets and the existing Bets Law Law framework, which President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva plans to overhaul in 2026. Last week, Lula announced to the national press that he intends to issue a ‘Presidential Decree‘ in May to establish a fresh online gambling system in Brazil, barring individuals receiving financial aid or those in debt from taking part. 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 vigorous discussion during this week’s Westminster Hall debate on gambling advertising has raised questions about UK MPs’ grasp of the gambling industry’s complexities. Alex Ballinger, a Labour MP and Co-chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Gambling Reform (GRAPPG), faced scrutiny from Conservative MP Esther McVey regarding the accuracy of statistics he presented on gambling advertising. McVey, whose husband is former Tory MP and ex-Star Sports Chairman Philip Davies, inquired whether Ballinger, who has advocated for stricter controls on gambling advertising, had been contacted by the Gambling Commission concerning his use of their data. Ballinger consistently denied this, asserting that any challenges to his figures originated from "members of the gambling industry." However, the UKGC’s Log of Requested Corrections indicates that Ballinger was indeed contacted on three separate occasions regarding the misuse of statistics. In each instance, the UKGC’s concerns pertained to an "incorrect reference to the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) as a measure of addiction." Following a debate on 5 February 2025, the UKGC also communicated with Ballinger and fellow MP Jim Shannon regarding their practice of "scaling up problem gambling data to population numbers." Dr Beccy Cooper MP, Vice Chair of the GRAPPG and a participant in the debate, has also been contacted twice by the UKGC concerning the "misuse of statistics" and the extrapolation of problem gambling data to population figures. Cooper defended her position by stating she had provided the UKGC with evidence supporting her use of the statistics as the "best evidence that we have." McVey voiced her apprehension that these communications from the UKGC cast doubt on the reliability of the data cited by MPs like Ballinger and Cooper in Parliament. It is important to note that Ballinger may not be aware of the UKGC's correspondence. Nevertheless, providing misleading information to Parliament can result in sanctions from the Parliamentary Standards Commissioner. The GRAPPG’s most recent report contends that advertising reforms in the UK have been insufficient, leading to young children being exposed to gambling at detrimental levels. The report cites UKGC data indicating that 79% of children have encountered gambling advertisements. Ballinger repeatedly cited a figure of £2 billion to highlight the expenditure on advertising by operators in the UK. This figure is consistent with research from marketing intelligence firm WARC, which forecasts that the industry will spend £1.9 billion by October 2026 across both regulated and unregulated sectors. During the debate, Ballinger did not differentiate between these sectors, stating that the funds were being used in a "deliberate and sustained effort to drive engagement, normalise gambling and grow the market, including by creating future generations of gamblers." Ballinger also refuted the claims made in the 2023 Gambling White Paper, which stated there is no direct link between gambling advertising and problem gambling, a point raised by Charlie Dewhirst MP. “I will not accept that,” he stated. “Having met lots of people with lived experience of gambling and having seen the evidence in our report, I know there is a clear link between gambling advertising and halting the recovery of people with gambling addictions.” However, problem gambling rates are not directly correlated with the speed of recovery for problem gamblers. Furthermore, Ballinger’s assertions appear to be primarily based on anecdotal evidence. While concerns regarding the extent of gambling advertising are understandable, these exchanges underscore why stakeholders continue to harbour doubts about the intentions of policymakers and their comprehension of the industry. In addition to the two MPs mentioned, MPs from the DUP, Liberal Democrats, and Green Party have also received notifications from the UKGC regarding the misuse of statistics. The Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID), the new prevention commissioner, has also received such notifications. In his newsletter, Dan Waugh of Regulus Partners observed that if Ballinger is unaware of the notifications, it suggests that the UKGC has not followed up on its communications. This situation should be a cause for concern across the industry, as the primary body responsible for collaborating with the government on regulatory changes appears not to have prioritized adequately addressing issues related to the statistics used in debates concerning the future of gambling in the UK. 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) - Flutter Entertainment continues to actively engage with both the technology and charity sectors by revealing the winners of its 2025 Tech4Good Awards. Co-organised by the company’s startup-centric initiative, Alpha Hub, and its sports community investment programme, Beyond Sport, the event was hosted by the NYSE-listed gambling giant. With a market capitalization approaching £14 billion, it stands as one of the largest firms globally. First-place winner GoodGym and runner-up Civic Dollars will split a prize pool of £60,000. Additionally, both organisations will receive capacity-building support from Flutter’s Alpha Hub and Beyond Sport. Adam Burgess, Director of Programmes at Beyond Sport, remarked: “These awards enable organisations to leverage technology for scaling solutions that boost physical activity and generate enduring health and community benefits by merging financial grants with customised capability-building assistance.” Flutter’s long-standing startup involvement Flutter Entertainment has collaborated with startups for many years. The company established the Alpha Hub in 2018 to serve as a bridge connecting startups with its brands, including FanDuel in the US, and Sky Bet and Paddy Power in the UK and Ireland, alongside other markets. Since its inception, the company’s startup partnerships have spanned various fields, such as responsible gaming and product development tailored for female customers. Recently, horse racing has emerged as a major focus area. Through the Future of Racing Summit, Flutter and the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) have been identifying startups to collaborate on technology initiatives related to racing. Aligning with its positive action plan, Flutter intensified its hunt for startups to support its responsible gaming efforts in 2023. The Tech4Good award has been instrumental in this endeavour, just as it has been for the company’s newer sports-centric projects. Commenting on today’s award announcement, Rob Smith, Associate Director of Emerging Technologies and Insights at Flutter, stated: “With over 8,000 technologists group-wide, Flutter is fundamentally a technology-driven enterprise. Utilising our expertise to support the growth and scaling of these startups is a logical step for us.” Introducing the winners As previously noted, the top prize in this year’s Tech4Good Awards went to GoodGym. Operating since 2009, this London-based charity is active in 68 regions throughout the UK. The organisation links runners, walkers, and cyclists with community tasks, aiming to encourage daily exercise through community service. Flutter selected this charity because of its AI-driven tool, Coach, which is designed to facilitate the discovery of local activities and the creation of community bonds. Darren Moore, Tech Lead at GoodGym, stated: “This award is transformative; it allows us to invest in the technology and infrastructure necessary to connect thousands more individuals with their communities through physical movement.” Taking second place, Civic Dollars is a Belfast-based entity that created a geo-fencing community currency application to encourage outdoor activity. Users earn an in-app currency, known as Civic Dollars, for every 30 minutes spent in public spaces and parks. These earned dollars can be redeemed for health-oriented courses, including yoga, fitness, dance, and healthy cooking, or they can be donated to local community groups and charities. Dr Gráinne McAnee, Researcher at Civic Dollars, commented: “Accessibility and ease should be the hallmarks of being active and healthy, rather than it being expensive, exclusive, or restricted.” These awards are announced amidst a period of intense political scrutiny facing the UK gambling sector, thereby increasing the significance of community-focused programmes and initiatives for the industry. 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.