(AsiaGameHub) - The integration of AI and extensive data processing is transforming sports betting trading, as B2B providers transition from offering standardized markets to delivering personalized, real-time services. The emphasis has shifted from broad pricing models to providing customized betting options, informed by live data and player behavior. For operators, this implies competing on relevance as much as on pricing. Trading teams are now expected to create and manage a significantly wider array of markets, utilizing automated models to process live data and react instantly to in-play events. The capacity to manage such vast volumes of data is becoming a critical determinant of product quality and customer retention. During the recent ICE Barcelona conference, Thomas Johnson, Head of Trading at DATA.BET, commented that access to data has largely removed limitations on market creation. “The quantity of markets we can provide is almost limitless,” he explained. “If a customer desires a specific bet, we can generate it because the necessary data exists. It is no longer a generic offering. To retain players, you must provide what they want.” To facilitate this, DATA.BET employs a hybrid trading framework. AI systems continuously manage pricing, risk, and market updates, while human traders oversee performance and intervene during volatile situations. Many of these traders possess professional esports or sports backgrounds, contributing valuable context that automated systems might miss. This methodology enables providers to scale their output without compromising risk control. For B2B clients, this translates to more stable pricing, broader market coverage, and reduced operational pressure on their internal teams. The model is anticipated to undergo further testing during major events, such as the upcoming summer World Cup. Johnson noted that DATA.BET is concentrating on features like picture-in-play overlays, expanded live betting markets, and more detailed player proposition data. These features are designed to enhance engagement and support longer sessions, while also creating cross-selling opportunities between traditional sports and esports. Otto further stated that the company’s background in esports trading provides a distinct advantage when expanding into conventional sports. Esports markets are characterized by their speed and volatility, demanding robust risk systems. Applying this experience to football and other major sports helps improve stability for operators. This cross-vertical approach is also influencing DATA.BET’s expansion strategies. The company is targeting growth in Latin America, following a recent partnership in Brazil. The region demonstrates strong demand across both football and esports, making it a key area of focus for 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.
SBC Announces Livestream Details for Charity Boxing
(AsiaGameHub) - This Friday, SBC’s Charity Boxing Championship will be live-streamed, with 12 white-collar competitors from the gaming industry stepping into the ring to compete for personal pride, company bragging rights, and a meaningful cause. The complete fight card for the evening will be viewable live through a dedicated stream provided by Gr8Tech, with the first fighter entering the ring scheduled for 9pm GMT—enabling those who can’t attend to follow the action as it happens. Taking place at London Hilton Park Lane this Friday, the championship will gather more than 500 guests for an exclusive black-tie affair that includes a champagne reception, three-course dinner, charity auction, and after-party. At its heart, the event supports the Oliver’s Wish Foundation—a charity that funds children’s organizations focused on research and supporting families dealing with loss—with support from Platinum Sponsor Gamingtec and numerous other partners. Rasmus Sojmark, Founder and CEO of SBC, stated: “SBC’s Charity Boxing Championship has become a standout event in the gaming industry’s calendar. It’s not just an opportunity for representatives from different companies to earn bragging rights—we also get to raise funds for the Oliver’s Wish Foundation and its crucial work. “The dedication shown by this year’s fighters has been outstanding. Kudos to each one of them for stepping into the ring. Their readiness to step outside their comfort zones for a worthy cause is what makes this event so impactful.” The 12 fighters are the centerpiece of the event—their months of hard work, dedication, and training will come to a head this Friday as they step into the ring to challenge themselves. The fight card is as follows: Kai Hill (Dennis & Dyer) vs Majid Rodriguez (Product Manager, Super) Ahmed Baker (Chief Commercial Officer, Incentive Games) vs Rory Kimber (Commercial Director, Lucky Streak) Jessica Lee-Green (Partnership Team Manager, Games Global) vs Ferial Abarghooie (Director Of Account Management, G Games) Tamas Kusztos (Co-Founder, SharedLuck) vs Sapar Karyagdyyev (Founder, GamingTec) Ben Cleminson (CEO, Square in the Air) vs Rob Fell (CEO, RiskCherry) Nikki Timmins (Head of Account Management, Blue Sakura Solutions) vs Lex Scott (VP Gaming, ITV) The evening will kick off with a drinks reception and seated dinner, leading up to the first three fights. A charity auction—with all proceeds going to the Oliver’s Wish Foundation—will follow, before the final three bouts take the spotlight. The event will conclude with an after-party. To contribute to the Oliver’s Wish Foundation and learn more about its mission, visit: www.justgiving.com/charity/oliverswishfoundation For additional details—including table bookings—visit sbcevents.com/sbc-charity-boxing-championship or reach out to Paul Mills at paul@sbcgaming.com This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.
Welsh bookmaker questions what’s next following greyhound prohibition
(AsiaGameHub) - James Lovell, co-founder and Director of Welsh bookmaker DragonBet, has strongly criticised the government's recent decision to outlaw greyhound racing. Lovell described the move as "a huge shame," asserting that it was not supported by concrete evidence but rather driven by a political agenda that overlooks an entire sport which has significantly prioritized animal welfare. “For many people, this sport is a way of life, built around people who care deeply for their dogs and have dedicated their lives to them,” Lovell stated. He also accused the government of inconsistency, arguing that the criticisms leveled against greyhound racing could equally apply to horse racing, a sport currently thriving in Wales. Currently, Wales has three active horse racing venues: Bangor-on-Dee, Chepstow, and Ffos Las. In contrast, there is only one operational greyhound track, the Valley Greyhound Stadium in Ystrad Mynach, Hengoed. “At a time when horse racing in Wales is achieving real success and giving people something to be proud of, it is fair to ask where this ends. Today it is greyhound racing – tomorrow, what sport involving animals is next?,” DragonBet’s Director concluded. As a reminder, Wales’ Senedd voted in favor of a proposal to ban greyhound racing, citing animal welfare concerns. The prohibition is set to take effect on April 1, 2027, with a three-year transition period until April 1, 2030, for all stakeholders to adapt to the changes. The decision, like that affecting DragonBet, has faced considerable opposition, notably from the Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB) and its Chief Executive Officer, Mark Bird. Echoing Lovell's sentiments, Bird expressed his disappointment with the government's decision, adding: “The only thing this Bill will do is destroy people’s jobs, family-run businesses and community touchpoints not to mention cause significant loss to the Welsh economy.” Currently, Wales and Scotland are the only two countries in the UK to have officially banned greyhound racing, with both bans being voted on the same day. Greyhound racing has not been conducted in Scotland since its last regulated track in Fife closed in 2019. The GBGB has, predictably, voiced strong opposition to both bans. Commenting on the Scottish ban last week, Bird criticized the bill as ‘unevidenced, illogical and will help no-one in Scotland – least of all greyhounds’. Globally, the sport can still be legally organized in the US, Australia, Ireland, England, and Northern Ireland. New Zealand is also set to ban it in 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.
Controversy over Brazil’s betting sector influences São Paulo gubernatorial contest
(AsiaGameHub) - The Partido dos Trabalhadores (PT) administration in Brazil has appointed Dario Durigan as its new Finance Minister. He will oversee fiscal and tax policy for the continent's biggest economy under President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. This Friday, Brazil's official gazette revealed extensive changes to the Ministry of the Economy and Finance (MEF), prompted by Fernando Haddad's choice to campaign for Governor of São Paulo state. This concludes Haddad's twenty-year role as a prominent member of Lula's PT Party, where he served in several governments and was most recently the designer of its fiscal and taxation reform plans. Rumors had grown in recent months that Lula would support 'Paulista Haddad', a native of São Paulo, to run for governor of his home state—a crucial political arena for the PT's national ambitions. São Paulo is seen as an essential victory in this year's elections. The PT aims to defeat the sitting governor, Tarcísio Gomes de Freitas of the Republicanos party, a major right-wing ally of ex-president Jair Bolsonaro, who currently commands a solid majority in the state. Although Haddad begins the contest as a long shot, his run is anticipated to boost his national standing. Campaigning under the PT flag in São Paulo, he will present himself as Lula's selected candidate to spearhead the government's electoral efforts and strategy across Brazil's 26 states. Dramatic shifts Durigan, the former Executive Secretary of the MEF, assumes the position at a pivotal time for Brazil's economy. He is projected to uphold continuity on "fiscal discipline and tax reform" as the country enters its electoral period this year. In 2026, the PT party's economic policies will likely face challenges from external factors, such as global energy disruptions, ongoing inflation threats, and trade tariffs enacted by the Trump administration. Haddad resigned from the ministry after managing a substantial transition period for the Treasury, guaranteeing the government's fiscal policy matched PT priorities in the wake of the Bolsonaro government's economic measures. As Finance Minister, Haddad was instrumental in creating the Brazil Bets Law (No. 14,790/2023), which established the regulatory structure for online gambling starting 1 January 2025. However, both Haddad and Lula have grown more disapproving of the betting system within its inaugural year. They characterize online gambling as an exploitative sector that preys on Brazilian consumers and weakens broader economic goals. In late 2025, Haddad advocated for doubling the tax on licensed betting operators to 24%, a plan that was derailed by PT ministers in Congress due to opposition from coalition and bloc allies. This failure compelled a rewrite of key elements in the PT government's 2026 Budget, which Lula reluctantly approved. Criticism of the Bets framework has become part of a wider political and fiscal story leading up to Brazil's general election on 4 October. Lula has already started campaigning for a potential fourth presidential term, escalating his rhetoric about raising taxes on "banks, betting, and billionaires"—encapsulated in the PT's "tres-Bs" slogan. Thus, the change in leadership at the Finance Ministry points not just to steadiness in economic management, but also to a wider realignment of Brazil's political scene, as tax policy, regulatory course, and election tactics become more closely linked before a decisive national vote. Currently, Lula is escalating his criticism of the Bets system, continuing to urge Congress and the Senate to alter its framework—mainly via higher taxes, increased licensing fees, and tougher advertising limits. Legislators have already shown their intent, with the Senate consenting to increase betting taxes to 18% by 2028. Meanwhile, discussions have temporarily halted the implementation of the CIDE 'technical services tax', which proponents want to levy on the deposits of betting license holders. Concurrently, suggestions concerning gambling advertising are still pending, varying from complete prohibitions to more specific limitations. Despite 2026 being an election year, the Brazil Bets system is predicted to see more changes, as promised by Congress and the Senate. Yet, the extent and final form of these reforms are still undecided, casting doubt on the regime's long-term path. Who will battle Lula? The electoral landscape is still unclear regarding which right-wing candidate will face Lula. With ex-President Bolsonaro under house arrest and barred from running, Brazil's right wing has not yet united behind a sole opponent. Rio Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, Jair's son, has risen as a frontrunner after obtaining his father's backing to head the Liberal Party (PL) ticket—though doubts persist about his campaign abilities. Rifts exist across the conservative field, with other appeals endorsing Tarcísio de Freitas as a 'unified right-wing candidate' or the unexpected option of Michelle Bolsonaro. 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.
888Africa migrates its Angolan operations to the EveryMatrix platform
(AsiaGameHub) - 888Africa has enhanced its Angolan operations by transitioning to a new platform through a turnkey partnership with EveryMatrix. As part of the deal, the company has moved from its former platform provider to EveryMatrix's core platform for both sports betting and casino gaming services. The operator formerly utilized FSB Technology's platform, which EveryMatrix purchased in 2024. Following a competitive evaluation, 888Africa opted to switch to EveryMatrix's turnkey platform, with the migration finalized last week. While FSB maintained a client base throughout Africa, EveryMatrix has invested heavily in its continental operations, notably by appointing Mark Schmidt as Managing Director for Africa. Sources suggest that 888Africa's decision to adopt EveryMatrix was driven by its expansion into casino offerings, with the platform's solution being described as highly robust. An EveryMatrix spokesperson stated: "The migration was executed progressively, with the Angola launch incorporating specific market requirements such as localization, payment systems, KYC procedures, CRM capabilities, and other regional necessities. Several components were interdependent, making sequential execution crucial." 888Africa maintains a strong presence across multiple established and developing African markets, including Angola, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique,Tanzania and Zambia. Under the leadership of Christopher Coyne, previously an executive at Paddy Power and The Stars Group, the operator aims to secure leading market positions and has strengthened its technological infrastructure to support this objective. In a LinkedIn post, the company's Vice President of Product and Operations Steven McIntosh commented: "Large-scale migrations are extremely challenging. Completing one within 10 weeks makes this achievement particularly remarkable. It involved millions of data points, intricate integrations, compliance requirements, and a cross-functional team working across numerous streams, all culminating in a single launch event. "In reality, this entailed months of planning, hundreds of support tickets, countless development dependencies, numerous edge cases, continuous coordination, and meetings—many meetings. While sleepless nights aren't listed in the project plan, they were certainly part of the process!" Southern African markets have attracted numerous operators in recent years, benefiting from robust regulation and populations familiar with sports betting. Although technology in the region has sometimes been criticized as inadequate, EveryMatrix believes it is driving sector modernization in these rapidly expanding markets. 888Africa anticipates being a primary beneficiary of this technological upgrade. Coyne remarked: "Our focus now is to establish our brand as a market leader in Angola, and that effort begins today. Angola represents a strategic and significant growth market for 888Africa, and we are enthusiastic about the opportunities we can pursue and accomplish there both now and in 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.
AxiumAI introduces a novel user experience approach for large-scale sporting events
(AsiaGameHub) - Agentic AI firm AxiumAI has rolled out its conversational interface AxChat for sportsbooks seeking to scale during international sporting events. The tool merges traditional menu-based navigation with direct natural-language interaction, helping players interpret matches, markets and outcomes in real time. Enabling instant transactions, AxChat offers personalized guidance that includes relevant deep-linked bets and a comprehensive overview of live events – a fit sportsbooks may find ideal for this year’s 2026 FIFA World Cup. AxChat displays contextual insights on games, players and competitions, delivering tailored recommendations for pre-match and in-play moments across all bet types. Paired with a bet builder feature, the solution aims to autonomously meet upsell and cross-sell needs. Looking briefly under the hood, AxChat connects conversations directly to the bet slip and user account, enabling one-click bets and providing a one-stop hub for managing bet history, payments, limits and active promotions. Additionally, AxChat is designed to work seamlessly with AxiumAI’s proprietary engagement engine Verso. AxiumAI focuses on building autonomous agent systems for the gambling sector, using real-time intelligence that can be deployed across an operator’s full stack simultaneously to drive efficient decision-making and execution. Sharing more on the newly launched AxChat, Adam Lewis, Chief Executive Officer at AxiumAI, said: “AxChat introduces a new UX paradigm for sportsbooks. The expanded World Cup brings more matches, unfamiliar teams and a surge in global recreational players – meaning traditional navigation alone no longer inspires audiences or supports confident betting decisions. “By letting players ask questions in their own words and receive instant, context-aware answers, AxChat removes friction when intent strikes. It gives players clarity and confidence, while providing operators a powerful, dynamic engagement layer that boosts interaction, deeper market exploration and higher pre-match and in-play NGR – without relying on bonus spending.” 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.
Florida Legislative Session Concludes Without Gambling Reform
(AsiaGameHub) - The 2026 legislative session in Florida concluded without the passage of any bills targeting illegal gambling. While several proposals moved forward, with one even passing both chambers in differing versions, no legislation was enacted before the session adjourned on March 13. Good to Know SB 1580 came closest but died when the Senate did not take up House changes. HB 189 was the broad House proposal and never reached a final vote. Florida regulators keep the same enforcement tools they had before the session. For the second consecutive year, Florida's legislature did not approve measures that would have strengthened regulations concerning illegal gambling. As a result, illegal gambling arcades remain in a legal gray area, and sweepstakes platforms are not subject to new restrictions. SB 1580 Came Closest SB 1580 represented the most viable opportunity for reform. The Senate passed the bill unanimously in early March. Subsequently, the House made amendments and passed its own version on March 11. With just two days remaining, the Senate did not revisit the legislation. This bill would have established new criminal offenses for individuals who knowingly or recklessly participate in or profit from illegal gambling. It also aimed to extend liability to government employees involved in certifying, licensing, or hiding illegal gaming operations, increase penalties for gambling houses, and impose new restrictions on internet gambling. Another component proposed a Limited Slot Machine Surrender Program, granting operators immunity in exchange for turning in their machines.House Changes Added Friction Amendments made in the House contributed to its failure. One change would have permitted licensed gambling establishments to relocate up to 1,320 feet without losing their licenses. Additional concerns were raised that the wording could inadvertently affect veteran groups. These issues were left unresolved. HB 189 pursued a more comprehensive approach. The extensive, 100-plus-page bill aimed to reform multiple areas of Florida's gambling laws. Its provisions would have prohibited internet gambling and online sports betting not covered by the Seminole Tribe compact, increased penalties for operating or advertising gambling houses, created new violations for illegal gambling advertisements, and expanded the enforcement power of the Florida Gaming Control Commission. It also targeted broader aspects of the illegal gambling trade, such as transporting individuals for gambling purposes, making false claims about machine legality, and implementing harsher penalties for repeat offenders. Despite this, HB 189 stalled before a final House vote. Some of its elements were later incorporated into SB 1580, which intensified the disagreement between the chambers. Other related bills made little progress. SB 1164 and HB 591, which had similar objectives, failed to advance beyond initial committee hearings. SB 204, which emphasized regulatory clarity over new criminal penalties, moved through two Senate committees before also stalling.Illegal Arcades Stay in Play The proliferation of illegal gambling arcades throughout Florida was a primary motivator for lawmakers to address the issue. Many of these venues operate in a murky legal zone, often presenting themselves as amusement arcades or skill-based game businesses. Regulatory action has intensified; in 2025, the FGCC seized $14,474,336 and 6,725 illegal slot machines across the state, more than doubling the approximately $7 million seized the previous year. While sweepstakes casinos were not explicitly mentioned in the primary bills, provisions in HB 189 and HB 591 concerning internet gambling and dual-currency prize models could have applied to them. With the failure of both bills, these potential restrictions are not in effect. 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.
Elon Musk Seeks New Chip Facility for Tesla and SpaceX
(AsiaGameHub) - Elon Musk has outlined plans for a chip production project involving Tesla and SpaceX. The proposed facility, named Terafab, would be constructed near Tesla's operations in Austin, with the aim of fulfilling internal demand for AI and robotics chips. Good to Know Musk noted that chip supply is not keeping up with demand from Tesla and SpaceX. The proposed Terafab site would be located near Tesla's headquarters and the Austin gigafactory. Musk did not provide a timeline for the project during the Austin event. Musk Wants Direct Control of Chip Supply Rather than relying on external semiconductor suppliers, Elon Musk suggests Tesla and SpaceX may need to develop their own solution. Speaking at an event in downtown Austin on Saturday night, Musk stated that current chip manufacturers are not producing quickly enough to meet the needs of artificial intelligence and robotics across his companies. “We either build the Terafab or we don’t have the chips, and we need the chips, so we build the Terafab.” A photo displayed during the event indicated the site would be situated close to Tesla's headquarters and the company's gigafactory in Austin. This location would place the project adjacent to one of Tesla's primary manufacturing centers, while also linking it closely to broader work in AI, automation, and robotics.Musk described a very high target for output. He said the plan is to produce chips capable of supporting 100 to 200 gigawatts of computing power per year on Earth, along with a terawatt in space. He did not clarify when the project could start or how long construction and production setup might take. This absence of a timeline is significant because semiconductor manufacturing is one of the most challenging industrial sectors to execute. Chip fabrication requires extensive engineering expertise, lengthy build cycles, complex supply chains, and major capital investment. Musk is well-known for setting highly ambitious goals, and Bloomberg highlighted that he does not have a background in semiconductor manufacturing. Even so, the reasoning behind the proposal is easy to understand. Tesla is expanding further into AI and robotics, while SpaceX also requires more computing power for advanced systems. If external supply remains tight, an in-house or tightly controlled chip operation could give Musk greater certainty over one of the most critical components of that technology stack. 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.
Maestro Unveils Mezzamine for Bitcoin Mining Financing
(AsiaGameHub) - Maestro has introduced Mezzamine, a Bitcoin credit platform designed around Bitcoin mining economics. The offering targets institutional investors who wish to generate yield from idle BTC, while also providing mining firms with an additional avenue for obtaining capital. Good to Know Mezzamine initially launched via a collaboration with Sazmining. The platform aims to deliver an annual yield of approximately 8% to 9% in Bitcoin for investors. Its credit structure is secured by future mining rewards rather than traditional fiat-based debt models. Maestro Tries a Bitcoin Native Answer to Mining Finance Mezzamine is structured as a Bitcoin-denominated credit market, moving away from conventional dollar loans or new equity sales. This is significant as many miners receive income in Bitcoin yet take on debt in dollars. A sharp decline in Bitcoin's price can strain balance sheets and increase the risk of liquidation due to this currency mismatch. Maestro aims to reduce this friction. Through this new framework, institutional investors can allocate Bitcoin to credit facilities linked to anticipated mining production. Returns are derived from block rewards produced by additional hardware and increased hashrate. Maestro reports existing demand, noting that mining companies exploring alternative funding have expressed interest in financing exceeding 1,500 Bitcoin.Protection during bear markets is a key feature. The platform employs hedging mechanisms connected to both Bitcoin's price and mining operational expenses. Essentially, the objective is to prevent a scenario where dropping prices lead directly to margin calls or compulsory asset sales. The model is instead designed to mirror how mining operations genuinely generate revenue via block rewards. For institutional investors, this presents a distinct Bitcoin yield approach. Instead of keeping BTC inactive or lending within a fiat-centric system, they can deploy coins into a credit facility connected to mining and aim for returns in Bitcoin. Miners gain from access to funding that more closely aligns with the asset they generate. The inaugural program is already operational with mining services provider Sazmining. Maestro states the platform is intended for asset managers, family offices, corporate treasuries, and similar professional investors. This direction aligns with a wider trend in digital asset markets, where an increasing number of financial products are being developed natively within the Bitcoin ecosystem rather than relying on external fiat systems. A native Bitcoin credit market also provides the industry with an additional foundational component as institutional participation expands. Mining companies have traditionally relied on outside lenders, equipment financing, or equity sales. Solutions like Mezzamine indicate an alternative path, where capital, collateral, and yield all remain intrinsically linked to the economics of Bitcoin mining. 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.
Hawk Tuah Girl States HAWK Crash Traumatized Her
(AsiaGameHub) - Hailey Welch has spoken out about the aftermath of the HAWK memecoin’s collapse, connecting the incident to months of public backlash, threats, and legal scrutiny surrounding the unsuccessful token launch. Good to Know HAWK was launched in December 2024 and temporarily hit a market capitalization exceeding $490 million. The token plummeted by over 91% the following day, sparking online allegations of a rug pull. A lawsuit filed by investors targeted the team and organizations behind the launch, though Welch was not included. Hailey Welch States HAWK Aftermath Left Her Traumatized Hailey Welch, commonly referred to online as the Hawk Tuah girl, shared that the collapse of HAWK and the subsequent public response took a significant personal toll. In an interview with Andrew Callaghan on Channel 5, Welch mentioned she was drawn into a crypto project she didn’t fully comprehend. “I got talked into doing something that I didn’t know anything about, really, but you’ve got to be really careful what you put your name on,” Welch told Andrew Callaghan of the Channel 5 YouTube channel on Friday. Welch stated she collaborated with an FBI investigation in 2025 and was exonerated of any misconduct. She added that she received none of the launch funds and lacked the technical expertise required to develop or manage the memecoin.Despite this, public outrage targeted her. Welch revealed she received death threats and remained out of public view for months as tensions escalated over the failed launch. “I was starting to get death threats and everything else. People telling me I owe them all this money, and I’m like, ‘I didn’t do this.’ I’m sitting here, and I’m the one getting hit for this. It’s rough. It’s one of those things where if you come out of the house, you put your head down.” HAWK launched in December 2024 and quickly reached a market cap of over $490 million within hours. By the next day, the token’s value had fallen to approximately $41 million—an over 91% collapse. This drop led to widespread rug pull claims across crypto social media platforms and kept the project in the spotlight across gaming, influencer, and digital asset news. Welch also noted that the actual losses incurred by retail investors were lower than many people believed during the backlash. Per her attorney, the total losses for individual investors amounted to around $200,000.Additionally, a lawsuit filed by investors in December 2024 alleged that the team and entities behind HAWK’s launch sold unregistered securities. Welch was not a defendant in the case. 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.
PENN Confirms Hollywood Casino Aurora Opening for June 24
(AsiaGameHub) - PENN Entertainment intends to launch Hollywood Casino Aurora on June 24, pending regulatory clearance. This new land-based venue in Aurora will succeed the enduring riverboat establishment on the Fox River, introducing an expanded entertainment scope to the greater Chicago area. Good to Know Hollywood Casino Aurora is scheduled to take the place of the existing riverboat casino on the Fox River. The new facility will feature a hotel, a retail sportsbook, a spa, an event center, and upwards of 1,200 gaming positions. PENN indicates the location will hire approximately 700 employees, almost twice the size of the existing workforce in Aurora. PENN Gets Ready for a Larger Aurora Casino and Resort PENN is preparing to transition Aurora gaming operations to a freshly constructed facility near Interstate 88, opposite Chicago Premium Outlets, moving away from the outdated floating casino model. This shift is significant as land-based casinos typically offer operators greater capacity for accommodations, dining, entertainment, and year-round events compared to older riverboat configurations. The project is valued by PENN at $360 million. Upon its debut, Hollywood Casino Aurora will become the company's second newly constructed venue in the Chicagoland area, following the August 2025 opening of Hollywood Casino Joliet. This provides PENN with a modernized retail casino presence in a Midwest market where operators continue to depend significantly on in-person gaming, hospitality, and sportsbook visitors. “We are just months away from unveiling another premium entertainment hub in the greater Chicago region,” stated Jay Snowden, CEO and President of PENN Entertainment. “We are excited to build on the successful launch of Hollywood Casino Joliet last summer with another new land-based site, reinforcing our retail footprint in the Midwest and strengthening our community ties.”Gaming represents just one component of the offering. The upcoming Aurora facility will boast 226 hotel rooms, over 1,200 gaming positions, a retail sportsbook, a spa, an outdoor entertainment area, and a 12,000 square foot event center. Additionally, PENN anticipates the site will employ roughly 700 staff members, almost doubling the staffing numbers associated with current Aurora operations. Dining is also receiving significant focus. PENN announced that celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis will launch Sorella by Giada, an Italian California fusion eatery. Boulevard Food & Drink Hall will introduce concepts from Stephanie Izard and other collaborators, providing the casino with a blend of local favorites and new culinary choices. For regional casino operators, food and beverage offerings can help increase time spent on-site and expand the demographic beyond traditional gamblers. Rafael Verde, PENN Senior Vice President of Regional Operations, remarked: “These celebrated restaurateurs will offer our guests exceptional dining experiences at the new Hollywood Casino Aurora. Combined with our hotel, event center, spa, and other amenities, visitors will enjoy a lively atmosphere at this new local destination.”Meetings and live events form another key element of the strategy. PENN noted that the event center is already accepting reservations for conferences, weddings, and entertainment acts, with public event disclosures anticipated shortly. This strategy aligns with a comprehensive casino resort model where gaming, lodging, dining, sports betting, private functions, and live shows operate cohesively under a single roof. Regarding the project's backing, Gaming and Leisure Properties Inc. is projected to supply $225 million in financing at a 7.75% capitalization rate around the opening. The City of Aurora is providing $50 million, and PENN stated the remaining $21 million is expected to be finalized by the end of the year. Concurrently, the firm is collaborating with the Illinois Gaming Board to move operations from the existing riverboat Hollywood Casino Aurora to the new land-based location. FAQ When will Hollywood Casino Aurora open? PENN Entertainment has indicated that June 24 is the scheduled opening date, contingent on regulatory authorization. What is replacing the old Aurora casino? The existing riverboat casino on the Fox River will be succeeded by the new land-based Hollywood Casino Aurora. Where is the new property located? The location is situated near Interstate 88, directly across from Chicago Premium Outlets. What features will the new casino include? The venue will feature 226 hotel rooms, over 1,200 gaming positions, a retail sportsbook, a spa, an outdoor entertainment area, and a 12,000 square foot event center.How many jobs will the property support? PENN projects that the new Hollywood Casino Aurora will employ approximately 700 individuals. What dining options are planned? PENN confirmed that Sorella by Giada, led by Giada De Laurentiis, will launch at the venue, accompanied by Boulevard Food & Drink Hall concepts featuring Stephanie Izard and other partners. How is the project being financed? Gaming and Leisure Properties Inc. is set to contribute $225 million, the City of Aurora is adding $50 million, and the remaining $21 million is anticipated by year's end. 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.
Allwyn Seeks Alternative Sportsbook Technology After Novibet Deal Collapses
(AsiaGameHub) - Allwyn is seeking alternative methods to develop its own sportsbook technology following the termination of its agreement with Novibet. This development was shared during the group's FY25 earnings call, where company leaders also highlighted PrizePicks as a valuable resource for prediction markets and attracting new customers. Good to Know Allwyn abandoned the Novibet acquisition following input from the Hellenic Competition Commission. Executives stated that proprietary sportsbook technology continues to be a strategic objective. PrizePicks provides Allwyn with a substantial customer base and a unified application for DFS and predictions. Allwyn Looks Elsewhere for Sportsbook Tech After Novibet Deal Falls Apart Allwyn continues to pursue its own sportsbook technology, despite the failure of its Novibet acquisition. On the FY25 earnings call, CEO Robert Chvátal confirmed that sportsbook technology is still a focus and that the company has begun evaluating other possibilities. The Novibet deal was announced earlier this month but was subsequently called off after the Hellenic Competition Commission provided feedback. “This interest in the sportsbook technology remains on the radar of Allwyn,” Chvátal stated.Chvátal stated. “We have already started exploring other opportunities when it comes to sportsbook technology, to maybe solidify our sportsbook position in some markets of Allwyn.” CFO Kenneth Morton emphasized that internalizing sportsbook technology is a definite priority. He noted that while Allwyn already manages the majority of its lottery technology, which is crucial for user experience and sustained success, sports betting is the final component not yet handled in-house. “Sports betting is the one bit that we don’t currently have in-house, which we do think is strategically important. So we certainly see benefits to having it in-house, but as Robert said, there are many other ways that we can achieve that.”PrizePicks was another major topic of conversation. Allwyn secured a deal last September to purchase a 62.3% share in the DFS operator for an initial $1.6 billion, with additional payments contingent on performance across three years. The transaction was finalized in January, and Morton indicated the company is well-placed to pursue expansion in the US prediction market. Morton explained that PrizePicks holds an advantage as it does not require the same level of expenditure on customer acquisition as some competitors. He added that integrating DFS and predictions into a single application improves the user experience and reduces the cost of acquiring customers. “A number of operators have launched actually with three apps, so DFS, OSB and predictions in separate apps,” Morton added. “Essentially, to some extent you’re having to acquire the same customer three times. “That’s not the case for PrizePicks. On day one they went live with predictions within their DFS app, which is obviously better for the user experience, but it’s also much better from the customer acquisition cost perspective.” Allwyn also announced FY25 net revenue of €4.1 billion, a 4% increase compared to the previous year. Adjusted EBITDA also grew by 4%, reaching almost €1.6 billion. The company anticipates finalizing its merger with OPAP this month, following shareholder approval in February, which will form a combined entity worth €16 billion. 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.
Nevada Court Temporarily Blocks Kalshi Event Contracts
(AsiaGameHub) - A Nevada court has provided state regulators with a recent victory in the ongoing dispute concerning prediction markets. Following a temporary restraining order issued on Friday, Kalshi is now prohibited from offering contracts related to sports, elections, and entertainment events in Nevada. A subsequent court hearing has been scheduled for April 3. Good to Know A Nevada court issued a temporary restraining order preventing Kalshi from offering sports, election, and entertainment event contracts within the state. According to the Nevada Gaming Control Board, the decision means that all known unlicensed prediction markets are now restricted in Nevada. A hearing to determine if a longer-term injunction will be imposed is set for April 3. Nevada Cuts Off Kalshi as Prediction Market Fight Keeps Growing Although Kalshi previously secured an early victory in Nevada, the situation has now reversed. The Friday order prevents the company from offering or enabling sports, election, and entertainment event contracts in the Silver State. This strengthens the position of Nevada regulators after months of legal battles over whether these contracts constitute unlicensed gambling. State regulators have consistently contended that Kalshi is operating without the gaming license mandated by Nevada law. In the court order, Judge Jason Woodbury stated that the Nevada Gaming Control Board has a reasonable likelihood of success. Reuters reported that the judge determined Kalshi's event contracts linked to college basketball, professional football, and elections fall under a Nevada I This is significant because Kalshi has persistently argued a contrasting position. The company maintains that federal oversight by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission places its event contracts beyond the reach of state gambling control. Nevada has dismissed this perspective, and the judge concurred, at least for the time being, permitting the state's case to proceed.The Kalshi case is also part of a broader conflict playing out across multiple states. Nevada has already compelled other operators to accept state-specific limitations. Court documents from Nevada indicated that Crypto.com ceased offering sports contracts to Nevada residents, while Robinhood agreed to halt offering sports event contracts in the state pending an appeal. 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.
The government of New South Wales releases a voluntary code of conduct for Face ID
(AsiaGameHub) - The government of New South Wales (NSW) has introduced facial recognition technology as its newest strategy to combat problem gambling rates. A voluntary code of conduct has been developed by the cabinet of Premier Chris Minns, specifically for pubs, clubs, and hotels that operate gaming machines. Created in alignment with the Privacy Act and Privacy Principles following public and industry consultations, the code serves as a guide for venues that currently use or are considering the implementation of facial recognition systems. This technology provides an additional method for identifying self-excluded patrons and reducing the risk of money laundering. The move is part of a broader effort to tighten gambling regulations across Australia’s most populous state. The Minns Labor Government’s guidelines cover all essential aspects of biometric data handling, including data protection, security management, privacy risk assessment, and the appropriate responses for venue staff. David Harris, the Minister for Gaming and Racing, who gave the code his approval, stated: “I am pleased to launch this first-of-its-kind code of practice in NSW to help pubs and clubs navigate the complexities of facial recognition technology and better identify excluded individuals. “The Minns Labor Government is committed to minimizing gambling harm. While the previous Coalition government failed to act during their 12 years in power, we are working alongside the industry to create innovative solutions for patron protection.” Establishments in NSW are already adjusting to operational changes, including a new government mandate requiring compliance with updated gaming machine shutdown rules by 31 March. More than 600 venues are now required to turn off all gaming machines between 4am and 10am daily, marking a major shift from a 20-year-old policy that permitted machine operation during those hours. This regulation is one of several measures being implemented by the Minns cabinet to address the risks associated with problem gambling. Other initiatives include lowering the deposit limit for new machines from AU$5,000 (£2,600) to AU$500, requiring Responsible Gambling Officers in venues with over 20 machines, and prohibiting gambling advertisements on public transportation. Harris added: “We will continue to implement evidence-based reforms that balance the need to reduce gambling harm with the necessity of supporting an industry that provides over 150,000 jobs and contributes billions to the economy of NSW.” 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.
Argentina deems Polymarket an ‘unsafe environment’
(AsiaGameHub) - Lucia Gando: SBC Noticias Lucía Gando, Editor of SBC Noticias, delves into the legal and regulatory details behind the Buenos Aires courts’ decision to ban Polymarket and other prediction market platforms across Argentina This ruling marks a setback for prediction market startups and their investors, while also sparking a wider debate about whether these platforms can gain a foothold in South America. On Tuesday, Argentina became the first South American country to enact a full ban on prediction market operations, following an investigation focused specifically on Polymarket. International media outlets have reported that Buenos Aires courts issued a “federal block” of the platform, sparked by a legal case filed by LOTBA, the Buenos Aires City Lottery. Media coverage has characterized this decision as a major blow to the global expansion ambitions of prediction market operators, adding to the growing wave of regulatory controversies across South America. This Argentine ban follows Kalshi’s launch in Brazil earlier this month, a move that was immediately challenged by established betting market players. Both industry groups and Brazilian authorities have stated there is no valid justification for Kalshi to operate in the country. As such, across both Europe and South America, expanding prediction market access has become a critical priority to reaffirm the products’ unique classification as derivative-based financial contracts — a designation made by the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). Buenos Aires Regulatory Intervention Buenos Aires courts have put a stop to the intended growth of prediction market venture backers. The key question the courts are posing is this: Is U.S. regulatory validation alone enough to justify launching prediction markets in South American jurisdictions, and what framework should be used to assess whether these platforms are viable and distinct from gambling operations? The Buenos Aires lottery regulator did not ask the courts to draw a clear distinction between prediction markets and other products; instead, it requested a comprehensive, systemic response to prediction markets and event-based contracts. The regulator’s case against Polymarket centered on the platform’s lack of adequate consumer protections. The authority believes enforcement action is warranted based on the public safety risks of engaging with unvetted digital platforms. LOTBA, acting in its role as a provincial gambling regulator, petitioned the courts to classify Polymarket’s activities as a violation of Article 301 bis of Argentina’s Penal Code, which prohibits the operation of unlicensed gambling services. The regulator’s argument is straightforward: no matter how much financial polish they have, prediction markets replicate the core mechanics of betting — users wager money on uncertain outcomes, prices reflect implied probabilities, and the platform facilitates these transactions. According to LOTBA, these features do more than blur the line between categories; they amplify risk significantly. The absence of effective safeguards, identity checks, age verification, and traceable payment controls turns these platforms into unlicensed gambling operations with minimal accountability and few protections for participants. Regulatory Environment Concerns Most importantly, the regulator did not limit its request to just Buenos Aires. Instead, it sought a nationwide intervention, arguing that a digital product with borderless reach cannot reasonably be contained within provincial boundaries. Fragmented oversight in this context amounts to no oversight at all. Argentina’s response, then, is less a formal rejection of financial innovation and more a practical judgment about the operating environment for these platforms. The question for regulators was not whether prediction markets could theoretically be classified as derivatives, but rather, given their widespread accessibility and total lack of proper controls, whether these platforms can even qualify or function in practice as gambling operations. Argentina’s Ruling Is Not a One-Size-Fits-All Solution Whether Buenos Aires’ regulatory logic will be adopted elsewhere remains an open question. Few South American jurisdictions combine Argentina’s patchwork of provincial licensing, coordinated lottery bodies, and aligned prosecutorial priorities. While the ruling may set a precedent, it will not be easy to replicate. For neighboring markets such as Brazil and Mexico, the dilemma remains unresolved: classify prediction markets as financial instruments and risk allowing regulatory arbitrage, or label them as gambling and risk stifling this emerging form of digital trading. For operators like Polymarket, expanding into additional Latin American markets remains possible — but it has become increasingly challenging and high-risk. Argentina has, at the very least, shifted the terms of the global debate. The issue is no longer just how to classify prediction markets, but how to regulate them within sprawling digital ecosystems. Whether other regions will follow suit will determine whether these platforms take root in Latin America or secure some form of market access, as prediction markets remain a marginalized segment for the time being. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. 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ComeOn to Collaborate with VNLOK for an Improved Dutch Market
(AsiaGameHub) - The Dutch online gambling industry association VNLOK has announced iGaming operator ComeOn as its newest member. Established in 2010, ComeOn has evolved into a global participant in the gaming sector, establishing a footprint in the Netherlands since 2022 through authorization from the national regulator Kansspelautoriteit (KSA). The company provides patrons with a broad array of entertainment choices, including live casino, slot games, online sports wagering, and additional offerings. VNLOK emphasized that integrating ComeOn into its membership will support the development of a sustainable and protected digital gambling ecosystem. Björn Fuchs, Chairman of VNLOK, stated: “We warmly welcome ComeOn within our association. It is valuable that more and more license holders are uniting within VNLOK to work together on a well-functioning, safe and responsible online gambling market in the Netherlands.” Through its VNLOK membership, ComeOn will contribute to shaping a more accountable Dutch gaming sector, which must now adhere to stringent promotional restrictions under the Remote Gaming Act (KOA) reforms initiated several years ago and currently being enforced. The most recent set of guidelines issued by the KSA has established explicit regulations for remote gambling operators like ComeOn, aimed at strengthening player safeguards. The regulator noted that operators failed to completely grasp the scope of the prohibition on untargeted advertising within the reforms, which required gambling companies to limit marketing exclusively to internet and on-demand media platforms under rigorous conditions. The authority has now clarified that operators must never allow their advertising channels to access vulnerable demographics, and must therefore cease advertising through any channel where there is any possibility of ambiguity. The regulator also noted that the new guidelines were developed with input from relevant stakeholders via comprehensive consultation and feedback, combined with findings from the authority's own monitoring activities since the untargeted advertising prohibition took effect. “With this, the KSA aims to contribute to careful and consistent compliance with the ban on untargeted advertising within the online gambling market,” the authority's announcement concluded. 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.
Sportradar deepens German ties through DFB partnership extension
(AsiaGameHub) - Sportstech company Sportradar Group has extended its partnership with the Deutscher Fussball-Bund (DFB), securing long-term betting data and streaming rights for the DFB-Pokal. The new agreement, effective from the 2026/27 season, grants Sportradar exclusive rights to distribute betting data and live streams for all DFB-Pokal matches outside the DACH region (Germany, Austria, and Switzerland), alongside non-exclusive media data rights globally. This deal encompasses all 63 matches of Germany's premier cup competition each season and represents the first direct agreement between Sportradar and the DFB for the DFB-Pokal, following Sportradar's acquisition of IMG ARENA in 2025. The inclusion of the German cup competition enhances Sportradar's already comprehensive football rights portfolio, which includes collaborations with organizations such as FIFA, UEFA, and the Bundesliga. A significant aspect of the agreement, as stated, is the introduction of skeletal tracking data for the competition. This technology enables more in-depth analysis of player movements and facilitates the creation of new betting markets. Consequently, operators will be able to offer a greater number of live, player-specific betting markets, as well as micro-markets during matches. “Our extension of the agreement with DFB is a key addition to our already strong portfolio of global soccer rights,” stated Moritz Gloeckler, EVP Rights and Strategic Projects at Sportradar. “With over five billion soccer fans worldwide, there is a substantial demand for content. “Through partnerships with FIFA, UEFA, AFC, Bundesliga, CONMEBOL, and others, Sportradar is well-positioned to develop the next generation of tech-driven products and services for clients to engage fans, reach new audiences, and unlock fresh revenue streams.” Sportradar capitalises on German football opportunities This deal is announced ahead of the conclusion of the German football season and the upcoming 2026 World Cup. German football has a long-standing connection with the iGaming industry, a relationship that has continued into the 2025/26 season. For instance, UK-headquartered industry giant bet365 serves as the official team partner for Bundesliga clubs VfB Stuttgart and Hamburger SV. In addition, Germany's most successful club, Bayern Munich, partnered with Kaizen Gaming-owned Betano at the beginning of the season. Tipico, which has a significant presence in the country, already has established agreements with the DFB. Kay Dammholz, Director Media Rights at DFB, added: “With this agreement, we are further advancing the international media rights distribution of the DFB-Pokal. “Together with Sportradar, we are ensuring a professional and secure global distribution of our betting streaming rights outside the DACH region, while maintaining the highest standards of integrity and unlocking additional commercial potential for our premium cup competition.” With the aforementioned World Cup approaching and the global growth of football betting, it will be interesting to observe how the rest of the industry competes to capitalize on market opportunities. 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.
SBC Summit Tbilisi 2026 to Welcome Over 2,500 Attendees, Focusing on Strong Regulations and Sports
(AsiaGameHub) - SBC, in partnership with SMH Global, has announced the highly anticipated SBC Summit Tbilisi 2026, set to take place on 15–16 July at the Sheraton Grand Tbilisi Metechi Palace. Building on the success of the 2025 event, which drew over 2,000 participants from 44 nations, the 2026 summit aims to surpass 2,500 attendees and solidify its influence across Eastern Europe and Central Asia. More than 70 leading speakers are slated to address crucial industry subjects, including regulatory frameworks, operational strategies, technological advancements, affiliate marketing, and inter-industry collaborations. Sports will once more be a central theme, with sessions dedicated to fan interaction, sponsorship avenues, media alliances, and the evolving dynamic between sports entities and betting providers. A significant feature will be the SBC Regulators Summit, convening top regulatory officials from Central and Eastern Europe, the Balkans, the Baltics, the Caucasus, and Central Asia to deliberate on compliance, responsible gambling practices, and the adaptation of regulations to new technological developments. Rasmus Sojmark, CEO & Founder of SBC, reiterated his enthusiasm:“After the benchmark set in 2025, SBC Summit Tbilisi 2026 is projected to host more than 2,500 participants and will showcase over 70 distinguished speakers exploring operations, technology, affiliate marketing, and collaborations with sports and related sectors. “The SBC Regulators Summit will take a prominent position, fostering strategic discussions for forward-thinking policies. Furthermore, a special guest announcement is forthcoming, ensuring this July event is essential for all stakeholders invested in the future of iGaming in the area.” Lasha Machavariani, Founder of SMH, commented: “Sports is set to be a fundamental component of SBC Summit Tbilisi 2026. In the previous year, we were privileged to host football icon Alessandro Nesta, which generated considerable excitement and insightful conversations concerning leadership, performance, and the link between sports and betting. “For 2026, we are broadening the sports emphasis significantly, including more in-depth discussions on fan involvement, sponsorship approaches, club collaborations, and the commercial aspects of sports. We are arranging for another prominent guest and anticipate providing even greater benefits for the region.” Networking avenues will encompass evening functions at premier locations throughout Tbilisi, complemented by the SBC Connect App for facilitating business connections and content access. The exhibition area will offer direct engagement with operators, suppliers, affiliates, and technology firms. Early bird registration is scheduled to commence shortly, and organizers are urging industry professionals to confirm their attendance at what is expected to be a premier iGaming and sports betting event in the region. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.
Affordability checks return as UK gambling flashpoint
(AsiaGameHub) - UK gambling industry associations have urged the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) to reconsider its financial risk assessments (FRAs) to avoid losing tens of thousands of bettors from the legal gambling market. The UKGC is currently implementing 63 recommendations from the 2023 Gambling Act Review White Paper to maintain a sustainable and competitive UK gambling industry. These measures include customer financial risk assessments designed to lower problem gambling by requiring players to submit financial documents to prove they can afford to gamble. Since August 2024, players have faced financial vulnerability checks—a less stringent version of FRAs that trigger only after £150 in net deposits within 30 days. However, FRAs will be more extensive. Though the UKGC has pledged to minimize friction by eliminating the need for bank statements or financial documents, the new checks will automatically review a customer's financial history if they spend £1,000 in 24 hours or £2,000 over three months. The UKGC's pilot program for the process raised concerns, as credit reference agencies' varying methodologies reportedly produced inconsistent financial information for the same individual. This could create further complications, likely forcing operators to intervene and request personal details directly, undermining the UKGC's goal of a seamless system. With no clear resolution to these issues, UK trade organizations are growing increasingly concerned, as both the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) and the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) have issued warnings about potentially losing thousands of customers. In an interview with the Racing Post, BGC Chief Executive Grainne Hurst stated: "The Gambling Commission's proposed financial risk assessments may duplicate current safeguards while creating substantial inconvenience for customers, ultimately driving more people toward dangerous illegal gambling sites. "The government should therefore request that the Gambling Commission suspend and review FRAs within a broader evaluation of player protection measures, ensuring all modifications are based on evidence and safeguard consumers without pushing them toward unregulated, unsafe markets." The horse racing sector is also expected to be impacted. In a Sun article, BHA CEO Brant Dunshea supported Hurst's appeal for the UKGC to reconsider FRAs, which could be approved as early as this May. "Horse race betting has proven to be one of the safest gambling forms, but only within a legal, regulated framework," he said. "Without an improved approach, the illegal market will expand, increasing harm, costing the government tens of millions in tax revenue, and triggering extensive job losses throughout Britain. "Considering recent regulatory and tax adjustments, I urge the commission and government to thoughtfully evaluate whether this additional regulatory layer is timely." "The Government must act now. Too much is at stake."Yesterday in @TheSun, @BHAHorseracing CEO Brant Dunshea laid out his argument.Why should bettors have to verify they can afford their hobby?Affordability checks will drive customers away from regulated betting and toward illegal…— Betting and Gaming Council (@BetGameCouncil) March 20, 2026 When contacted by the Racing Post, the UKGC responded: "We continue to develop financial risk assessments, with a primary focus on reducing friction for consumers." The renewed debate over affordability checks emerges before the 1 April introduction of a new UK gambling tax system. Last year's lobbying against tax increases ahead of the Autumn budget reportedly created some division between betting and racing interests, even though both share common goals. 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.
CJEU Opinion Casts Further Shadow Over Malta’s Bill 55
(AsiaGameHub) - A fresh legal layer has emerged in the ongoing debate surrounding Malta’s Bill 55, following an opinion issued by an Advocate General at the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU). Although the opinion from Advocate General Nicholas Emiliou does not explicitly mention Article 56A of Malta’s Gaming Act—widely known as Bill 55—it addresses the specific operational activities that the legislation was designed to shield. “A sports betting operator that provides services within a national market without holding the necessary licence may be required to reimburse stakes received from players,” Emiliou stated, referencing a case involving Tipico. While Tipico is headquartered in Malta, its primary customer base is in Germany, where it currently holds a leading market position. The company is currently defending itself against a lawsuit from a former client seeking to recover losses incurred between 2013 and 2020. During that period, Tipico operated internationally under a Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) licence rather than a German one. Under German law, providing sports betting services without a local licence renders the contract between the bookmaker and the player null and void, a principle the customer is using to justify their claim for restitution. In his assessment, Emiliou remarked that, “from the perspective of German law, the claims brought by the consumer in question against Tipico appear, in principle, to be well founded.” He noted, however, that Tipico argues it was prevented from obtaining a German licence due to “certain deficiencies” in the application process. Following the implementation of the Fourth Interstate Gambling Treaty 2021 (GlüStV 2021), the company successfully obtained a licence from the newly established regulator, the Gemeinsame Glücksspielbehörde der Länder (GGL), and is now included on the authority’s “white list” of authorized operators. Emiliou calls for nuance German courts have struggled to determine how the European Union (EU) principle of freedom to provide services should influence their obligation to dismiss such consumer claims. While Emiliou advocates for a nuanced approach, his overall stance appears to align more closely with the German judiciary than with Tipico’s position—and, by extension, the defensive stance adopted by Malta through Bill 55 in 2023. The Cypriot diplomat concluded that EU member states maintain the right to mandate a local gambling licence, and that such requirements are compatible with the bloc’s laws regarding the freedom to provide services. He argued that national courts are entitled to enforce these licensing requirements against operators lacking the proper authorization, even if those operators claim that procedural flaws prevented them from obtaining a licence. Emiliou concluded: “The freedom to provide services does not preclude the German authorities from requiring a German licence to offer sports betting services in Germany, nor does it in general preclude operators which did so without the required licence from being subject to consequences under civil-law, such as the nullity of the contracts they concluded with their clients.” He added: “The primacy of the freedom to provide services does not require national authorities to leave unapplied a licensing requirement which is, in itself, compatible with that freedom whenever an operator has been unable to obtain a licence through a non-discriminatory and transparent licensing procedure.” No respite in Bill 55 battle It is important to clarify that Emiliou’s opinion is not a direct ruling against Bill 55. Furthermore, determinations by CJEU Advocates General are legal opinions rather than binding judgments, which remain the sole purview of the CJEU itself. Nevertheless, this opinion adds to the growing legal pressure against the core premise of Bill 55: the idea that Malta-licensed firms are shielded by Maltese law from regulatory and legal actions in other markets where they operate. Germany and Austria have been particularly contentious jurisdictions in this regard. In Germany, a 2023 case involving Lottoland was also predicated on the firm’s lack of a local licence at the time of the customer’s losses. Similarly, Austrian gambler Marek Ehrlich has been pursuing a claim of nearly €500,000 against the Malta-based firm Virtual Services Digital Limited, citing the same lack of an Austrian licence. Although Ehrlich has received support from both Austrian courts and the CJEU, Maltese courts have refused to yield, invoking Bill 55 in February. The CJEU had previously also sided with the German position in the Lottoland case. These disputes follow a 2022 lawsuit against the now-defunct Maltese entity Titanium Brace Ltd, which operated as DrückGlück in DACH markets. In that instance, an Austrian player sought restitution for losses incurred while the firm was unlicensed, and the CJEU’s determination again favored the Austrian perspective over the Maltese one. With Maltese companies operating across numerous international markets and the gambling sector contributing roughly 10% of the nation’s GDP, policymakers and courts in Malta remain committed to using Bill 55 to protect this economic pillar. Conversely, courts in other EU member states—and seemingly the CJEU itself—do not share this view. Similar concerns have been voiced elsewhere; for instance, Dutch legislators referenced Bill 55 during debates on gambling regulation last year. Ultimately, the ongoing conflict between the courts of Austria and Germany, the Maltese judiciary, and the CJEU shows no signs of abating. 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