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(AsiaGameHub) -   Meta has launched a 2026 pilot program allowing chosen creators to receive their earnings in USDC, with payments processed via Solana and Polygon. The trial begins with eligible creators in Colombia and the Philippines—two markets where many online workers are paid in U.S. dollars and often face losses from bank fees or currency conversion. Good to Know Meta is not introducing a new cryptocurrency. The pilot uses USDC, a dollar-pegged stablecoin issued by Circle. Stripe powers the payment infrastructure after Meta solicited proposals from third-party providers in February 2026. Creators are responsible for managing their own wallets, private keys, tax records, and any conversion of USDC to local cash. Meta Opts for USDC Over Developing Another In-House Cryptocurrency Meta previously attempted to build its own crypto project. Libra launched in 2019, later rebranded to Diem, and was discontinued in 2022 following strong pushback from U.S. and European lawmakers. Now, Meta has taken a more straightforward approach. Instead of issuing its own token, the company is using USDC. This choice gives Meta a familiar stablecoin payment rail and avoids the political controversy that led to Diem’s end. Qualified creators will receive a notification in the Facebook app. From there, they can add a USDC wallet address in Meta’s payout settings—only Solana and Polygon are supported for the pilot.Supported wallets include MetaMask, Phantom, Binance, Bybit, Kraken, Exodus, Brave Wallet, Bitso, GCash with GCrypto, and Coins.ph. Stripe is the backbone of the payment process. The company became the main partner after acquiring stablecoin infrastructure firm Bridge, providing Meta with a ready-made setup for crypto-based creator payouts. The pilot aligns with a broader trend in payments. PayPal launched PYUSD in 2023, and Stripe reinstated crypto payouts that same year. In the U.S., progress tied to the GENIUS Act framework has also helped large companies feel more comfortable testing stablecoin payments. Still, Meta keeps the setup limited. The company does not convert USDC to local currency. A creator wanting cash must send USDC to an exchange, sell it for fiat, and then withdraw funds to a bank account.Meta also warns users about wallet mistakes. Crypto transfers cannot be reversed—funds sent to the wrong address or network may be lost permanently. Taxes remain part of the normal payout process. Creators still receive regular Meta forms, including Form 1099 or 1042 when relevant. Since USDC counts as a digital asset payment, Stripe may also issue additional crypto tax documents. Creators need records from both sources. Meta can switch a creator back to another payout method if technical issues affect the crypto option. The company does not custody wallets, so users bear full responsibility for wallet security and private keys. With over 3 billion users across its apps, Meta has the reach to turn this small stablecoin test into a large payment channel if it expands USDC payouts later in 2026. For now, eligible creators should check Facebook payout settings, confirm wallet support, and review every address before connecting anything. 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) -   On April 29, 2026, U.S. officials publicized a major cryptocurrency fraud case, revealing that investigators had connected overseas fraud centers to counterfeit investment platforms targeting Americans. Good to Know Law enforcement apprehended at least 276 individuals and dismantled at least nine alleged scam centers. According to prosecutors, the criminal networks utilized fake cryptocurrency investment websites, online relationship-building, and rapid money laundering. The indictments include conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering, with each charge punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Fake Crypto Platforms Sat At The Center Of The Case Dubai recorded the highest number of arrests. Local authorities there detained 275 individuals, which includes three defendants named in San Diego cases. An additional defendant was arrested by the Thailand Royal Thai Police. The San Diego indictments identify Thet Min Nyi, Wiliang Awang, Andreas Chandra, Lisa Mariam, and two fugitives. The alleged operations were also linked by prosecutors to Ko Thet Company, Sanduo Group, and Giant Company. The Department of Justice characterized the case as an uncommon multinational collaboration. It stated:“Unprecedented cooperation between the FBI, Dubai Police Department, and Chinese Ministry of Public Security has resulted in the arrest of at least 276 individuals and the dismantlement of at least nine scam centers used for cryptocurrency investment fraud schemes.” “These centers targeted Americans who have suffered millions of dollars in losses from such schemes,” the DOJ added. Prosecutors explained that the scam centers employed "pig-butchering," a deceptive tactic where fraudsters cultivate false friendships or romantic relationships before convincing victims to make phony investments. Victims subsequently opened accounts, transferred cryptocurrency, borrowed money, took out loans, and invested additional funds after viewing fabricated balances on the platforms. The DOJ clarified that the platforms were merely facades. It elaborated:“Fake platforms put the victims’ funds in the hands of the scammers, who then laundered the victims’ funds to other cryptocurrency accounts, including their own.” The FBI's San Diego office initiated the inquiry in 2025 after tracking companies and individuals associated with fraudulent compounds. Investigators relied on reports from the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center, interviews with victims, financial documentation, and data provided by Meta Platforms, Inc., which owns Facebook and Instagram. The accused allegedly held roles as managers, recruiters, or general staff within the operations. Prosecutors state the groups inflicted millions of dollars in losses and transferred funds between cryptocurrency accounts before victims could reclaim their money. A conviction on each count of wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy carries a maximum prison sentence of 20 years. Potential fines can be as high as $250,000, $500,000, or double the amount gained or lost, based on the specific charge. Prosecutors have also initiated criminal forfeiture proceedings against Thet Min Nyi and a fugitive co-defendant. The investigation involved the FBI, Dubai Police, China's Ministry of Public Security, Thailand's Royal Thai Police, and other collaborators. This case follows efforts by the FBI's San Diego field office under Operation Level Up, which by April 2026 had alerted nearly 9,000 potential victims and prevented an estimated $562 million in losses. 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 Lodge Card Club in Round Rock is gearing up to resume operations after Texas dismissed charges tied to allegations of illegal gambling and money laundering. Good to Know Co-owner Doug Polk stated that a Williamson County grand jury declined to prosecute the case. The Texas Alcohol Beverage Commission conducted a raid on The Lodge in March. The returned funds will allow players to cash in their chips and collect pending tournament payouts. The Lodge Prepares To Reopen Poker looks poised to make a return at one of Texas’s largest card rooms. Doug Polk, co-owner of The Lodge Card Club and a high-stakes poker player, shared on Tuesday that the state dropped the case after a Williamson County grand jury chose not to pursue prosecution. Polk posted on X that he hopes The Lodge can reopen “within a few weeks.” BREAKING: All charges against myself, my partners, and the Lodge have been officially rejected. The seized money and equipment will be returned and we will reopen as quickly as possible, hopefully within a few weeks. The Grand Jury in Williamson county heard the allegations… pic.twitter.com/giEFXKzq6N — Doug Polk (Code Doug) (@DougPolkVids) April 28, 2026 This development wraps up nearly two months of uncertainty for the Round Rock club. In March, the Texas Alcohol Beverage Commission raided the property, seized funds and assets, and forced the venue to close its doors. The TABC accused The Lodge and its owners of crimes linked to illegal gambling and money laundering. However, the agency only conducted an investigation and could not formally charge the club on its own. Texas had until April 9 to file charges or release the seized funds. That deadline passed while the funds remained frozen. Later, the state removed potential money laundering allegations from the investigation. With the funds now returned, The Lodge can begin settling customer balances. Players can redeem their chips for cash, and the club can process the tournament payouts that went unpaid after the raid. The timing of the closure made the situation particularly chaotic. The Lodge had wrapped up a tournament series one day before the raid, including a main event that awarded more than $200,000 to the winner. 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) -   During its first-quarter earnings call, Sportradar responded to allegations from short sellers regarding its revenue from unlicensed operators, following two critical reports that caused a significant drop in its share price last week. Good to Know Sportradar stated that its revenue from the grey market falls within a range of 5% to 13%. The company's stock declined by 22.6% after reports were published by Callisto Research and Muddy Waters. First-quarter revenue increased by 11% to €347 million, despite the company reporting a loss of €6 million. Koerl Pushes Back On Short Seller Claims CEO Carsten Koerl provided analysts with a more precise figure after Callisto Research and Muddy Waters raised questions about the portion of Sportradar's income derived from unlicensed operators. “We do not work with black market operators,” Koerl stated on the post-Q1 earnings call. “For the grey market, we have a solid compliance structure in place, and we only work with licensed operators. “Overall, it’s [between] 5% to 12%, 13%. That’s the range which we have, and we are drilling this down from our operational business.”Callisto Research had alleged that a former senior employee at Sportradar estimated revenue from unlicensed operators was 30% to 40%. The report also suggested the number of unlicensed platforms could exceed 270. Separately, Muddy Waters claimed that a Sportradar sales employee stated the company “serves everyone” during the ICE Barcelona 2026 event, where investigators said they inquired about operations in Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, and China. Sportradar's share price dropped 22.6% by the market close on Wednesday following the reports. Koerl refuted the allegations on LinkedIn the following day, labeling them “false, misleading and defamatory.” He reiterated this stance during the earnings call. “To be clear, Sportradar and I reject the unfounded and misinformed allegations contained in the reports,” Koerl said. “For 25 years, Sportradar has maintained regulatory licenses in jurisdictions around the world.“Unfortunately, these actors strive on misinformation and repackaging historical allegations to drive down company stock prices at the expense of long-term focused investors.” Koerl said that since the reports were released, the company had been contacted by leagues, clients, partners, commissioners, and regulators. “I get a lot of support from all sites, our partners, our clients, the industry, some commissioners. And from a regulator perspective, we are in contact with some regulators on a very frequent basis. “Some of them contacted our teams, they explained to them the situation and that’s an ongoing process. Overall, the response was overwhelming for me that I got so much support and feedback on the allegations.” ICE Claims And Q1 Numbers Add More Detail Koerl also responded to a Muddy Waters claim concerning Yabo Group, which the report identified as China's largest illegal operator. He explained that investigators singled out a junior sales employee at the ICE event, where Sportradar conducted approximately 4,000 meetings. He emphasized that any sales conversation is merely the start of a comprehensive review process.“When a sales guy is selling something, there is a kickoff of a very intensive KYC process,” Koerl said. “That has the identification, the verification, the licence verification against the regulator, the verification of a corporate filing and the register, which is in there. Then finally, running this through sanction lists from all the available markets where we are acting. And then it goes to a final review of our legal counsel before a contract is signed. “So this is far off from signing a contract, and this was a purposeful sting campaign on a relatively young sales employee at ICE. “[There’s] no excuse on this, [it] should not happen, but this was far off from signing a contract or teasing somebody into doing business in illegal markets.” Separate from the controversy, Sportradar announced an 11% increase in Q1 revenue to €347 million. Adjusted EBITDA grew by 12% to €66 million, while the company registered a €6 million loss. Sportradar also appointed Sameer Deen as Chief Operating Officer, effective from May 18. Deen joins from Entain, where he held the positions of group COO and president since December 2023. Koerl stated that Deen will be “instrumental” in commercial activities and enhancing operational efficiency. Koerl said: “We will continue to drive innovation across our business, uphold the highest levels of integrity and transparency while delivering increasing value to our clients, our partners and our shareholders. “The underlying fundamentals of the business remain strong, and we are confident in our growth strategy and the opportunities ahead.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   The UK Gambling Commission has moved to ease concerns surrounding financial risk checks, stating that the proposed procedure will not require bettors to submit bank statements or other additional financial paperwork. Good to Know The UKGC confirms financial risk checks will not evaluate how much each customer is able to spend on gambling. Trial data indicates 97% of checks can be completed with no interruptions for users. Just 0.1% of active accounts required extra support during the pilot. Miller Seeks to Establish a Clear Distinction Tim Miller, Executive Director at the UKGC, used the Ethical Gambling Forum held in London to draw a line between financial risk assessments and the long-running debate over affordability checks. He stated: “The checks we have been trialing will not even attempt to evaluate how much each individual customer can afford to spend on gambling”. Miller also noted the Commission wants to introduce guidance that prevents operators from requesting bank statements or similar documents after a risk check is completed. He described such requests as serving no “legitimate regulatory purpose”. This point directly addresses one of the most prominent complaints from the gambling sector. Betting and Gaming Council CEO Grainne Hurst had previously stated: “Forcing punters to submit bank statements is not ‘frictionless’ – it is intrusive, and will push customers towards the illegal market, where no consumer safeguards exist at all.” A YouGov survey commissioned by the BGC found 65% of UK bettors would refuse to share personal financial documents to continue placing bets. The pilot launched in August 2024, applying to users with £500 in net monthly deposits, before the threshold was lowered to £150 in February 2025. Tier one operators took part in the scheme, with credit reference agencies brought in to help flag signs of financial risk. Data from the pilot forms the core of the UKGC’s defence of the policy. Fewer than 3% of active customers would trigger intervention processes. Roughly 97% would complete checks without any disruption, a figure higher than the 80% estimate laid out in the 2023 white paper. Only 0.1% of active accounts, equal to roughly one in 1,000, could not finish the assessment without additional support. Miller said the group that underwent checks also showed higher levels of financial vulnerability, with customers two to five times more likely than the average person to have defaulted on debt or joined a debt management plan in the previous 12 months. Illegal Platforms Remain a Core Part of the Discussion The Commission board has not yet approved a full rollout of the checks. Any final plan will require sign-off from the board and ongoing government support. If given the go-ahead, the UKGC will collaborate with the DCMS, operators, and credit reference agencies to develop practical implementation guidance. Miller also connected the risk check debate to the issue of illegal gambling. Between 2025 and 2026, the UKGC issued 741 cease-and-desist notices, reported nearly 398,000 illegal URLs to search engines, referred 1,068 websites for delisting, and disrupted 1,134 websites via takedowns or geo-blocking. The Treasury has allocated £26 million over three years to support broader work targeting the illegal gambling market. Miller said: “One of the areas my own subgroup is working on right now is releasing a national risk assessment of the illegal market, to help make sure all relevant parties are focused on the main risks that may emerge,” The Commission also expects to receive responses on gaming machine compliance in summer 2026. Operators are required to remove all non-compliant machines from service starting 29 July 2026. Miller said: “This is the moment where we also need to look at what actions we can take to help keep the consumer experience positive and competitive, particularly when compared to what is offered by the illegal market.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Caesars Entertainment kicked off 2026 with increased revenue, a reduced net loss, and record-breaking first-quarter results from Caesars Digital—even as casino margins remained under pressure. Good to Know Caesars posted Q1 revenue of $2.9 billion, up from $2.8 billion in the prior year. Caesars Digital’s revenue rose to $374 million, with adjusted EBITDA climbing to $69 million. The company closed the quarter with $867 million in cash and approximately $11.9 billion in debt. Digital Segment Plays a Larger Role in Q1 Results Caesars Digital provided the company with its most distinct growth trajectory in the first quarter. Revenue in the segment grew from $335 million to $374 million, while adjusted EBITDA increased from $43 million to $69 million. CEO Tom Reeg said: “In the first quarter of 2026, we delivered growth in total net revenue and adjusted EBITDA versus last year.“Caesars Digital revenue of $374 million (up from $335 million a year ago) and adjusted EBITDA of $69 million (up from $43 million a year ago) achieved record first-quarter results.” Across its entire business, Caesars recorded $2.9 billion in revenue, an increase from $2.8 billion the previous year. Net loss narrowed to $98 million from $115 million. Consolidated adjusted EBITDA reached $887 million, just slightly above the $884 million reported last year. Las Vegas maintained stable top-line performance. Revenue stayed at $1 billion, while adjusted EBITDA slipped 1.6% to $426 million. Hotel occupancy hit 95.3%, and executives pointed to improved demand following a weaker second half of 2025. President and Chief Operating Officer Anthony Carano called Las Vegas trends “a dramatic improvement versus the second half of 2025.”Reeg also noted that convention and group demand continues to play a significant role, with CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 among the major events supporting the market. He said: “We feel better each quarter about how Vegas is performing,” Regional Casinos Remain Stable Amid Shift to Cash Focus Regional revenue rose 3% to $1.43 billion, though adjusted EBITDA dipped to $435 million. Reeg explained the segment looked stronger when excluding the benefit of last year’s Super Bowl LX in New Orleans from the comparison: “The regional segment delivered improved adjusted EBITDA on a year-over-year basis after excluding the benefits of Super Bowl LX in New Orleans last year.” Chief Financial Officer Bret Yunker described the quarter as stable and tied future results to enhanced cash generation. Caesars has spent roughly $3 billion on renovations in recent years and now expects a “cash flow harvesting cycle.”Yunker said: “Our first-quarter consolidated results demonstrate the stability of our Las Vegas and regional segments and the continued growth in Caesars Digital, “We expect to deliver strong free cash flow in 2026 as a result of continued operating momentum, lower cash interest expense, and lower capex.” Caesars also completed the $54 million acquisition of Caesars Windsor operations in March and entered a 20-year agreement with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation. Executives declined to address reported takeover interest from Tilman Fertitta, stating the company will not comment on “market rumors or speculation.” 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) -   Kambi Group announced increased revenue and enhanced profitability for the first quarter of 2026, subsequently securing a significant sports betting agreement in Canada that covers a large portion of the nation. Good to Know Kambi revenue increased by 4.9% year-over-year to €43.5 million in Q1 2026. Adjusted EBITDA surged 63.5% to €5.7 million, achieving a 13% margin. ALC and BCLC have chosen Kambi to provide sports betting support across seven Canadian provinces. Profit Growth Comes First For Kambi Kambi began 2026 with a more efficient cost structure and improved margins. First-quarter revenue hit €43.5 million, a 4.9% increase compared to the prior-year period, while adjusted EBITDA grew 63.5% to €5.7 million. The operating profit margin also saw significant improvement, rising from 2% to 9.7%. Concurrently, operating expenses decreased by 2.1% year-over-year, providing the sports betting supplier with a more robust foundation for future business agreements. The company also highlighted several commercial successes in the quarter. These encompassed a partnership with Pari Mutuel Urbain in France, expanded adoption of Odds Feed+ via the ComeOn Group, broader content distribution for Hard Rock Bet, and new platform launches with Coolbet and LeoVegas.Kambi CEO Werner Becher stated: “The first quarter demonstrated an improved financial performance, with revenue growth supported by our commercial progress and ongoing cost management, leading to greater profitability. “Today's signing with the Canadian lotteries, along with our agreements with PMU and OLG, reinforces our standing with government-owned entities and emphasizes the advantages of our regulated market strategy, solidifying Kambi as the industry's trusted sports betting partner.” Canada Deal Covers Seven ProvincesKambi subsequently achieved one of its most substantial regulated market victories in Canada. The Atlantic Lottery Corporation and British Columbia Lottery Corporation have selected the company to deliver a unified sportsbook solution for seven of Canada's ten provinces. The arrangement includes online and retail betting in British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba via BCLC. It also extends to Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador through ALC. ALC recently conducted a Request for Proposal (RFP) to select a single supplier for the joint Canadian sportsbook initiative. Scott Eagles, ALC's director of sports betting, described the partnership as an "important step in how provincial lotteries work together" to offer sports betting to customers. Becher commented: “Our selection to operate this multi-province sportsbook is a powerful validation of Kambi's reliable technology, regulatory knowledge, and demonstrated capacity for large-scale delivery. “ALC and BCLC have a defined vision for a unified, consistent sportsbook, and we are honored to support its next stage with our high-performance, compliant, and established Turnkey Sportsbook.”Kambi is already active in Ontario and anticipates adding Alberta in July. Upon the launch of the new lottery agreement, the Europe-based supplier stated it will be powering sports betting in nine Canadian provinces. Becher also connected this achievement to the company's strategic focus on regulated betting markets. He remarked: “Operating solely in the legitimate sector, with its associated tax burdens and challenges, is not always simple, but it does offer business sustainability in certain respects. “Therefore, Kambi's strategy of being one of the very few B2B sports betting operators focused on regulated markets, while many others concentrate on black/grey markets, is our long-term plan. “We would stand no chance of winning such contracts if we maintained a significant presence in grey markets. This underscores the critical importance of our prior preparations for our future direction.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Resorts World New York City has launched a live table games area in Queens, marking New York City’s first full-scale casino of this kind following years of state gambling expansion initiatives. Good to Know Resorts World NYC has introduced over 240 live table games at its South Ozone Park location. The Queens-based casino now features blackjack, craps, baccarat, and roulette. Bally’s and Hard Rock aren’t projected to open their downstate casinos until 2030. Queens Now Has First Access to Live Casino Tables Resorts World acted quickly because it already operated slot machines and electronic gaming at the Aqueduct Racetrack site for more than a decade. The new floor opened on Tuesday, just months after Genting obtained one of three downstate casino licenses. Robert DeSalvio, president of Genting Americas East, said: “We got the license Dec. 15, and here we are, April 28, welcoming our guests to the new casino floor,”The South Ozone Park property now holds an early edge in New York City’s live table games market. Resorts World is located near John F. Kennedy International Airport and added dealer-run games that many city players previously traveled to neighboring states to find. Genting secured its license while several major casino groups—including Wynn Resorts, Las Vegas Sands, Caesars Entertainment, and MGM Resorts—missed out. The company reports paying a 63% tax on slot revenue and 30% on table game revenue. Its bid also included a clause allowing its tax rate to drop to competitor levels once the other licensed casinos open. Bally’s plans a Bronx casino on a golf course purchased from The Trump Organization. Hard Rock is collaborating with Steve Cohen on a project near Citi Field. Both developments are expected to launch in 2030. More Significant Expansion Is Still to Come The live table games floor kicks off a broader $5 billion expansion for Resorts World NYC. The plan includes an additional hotel wing, a 7,000-seat entertainment venue, an indoor day club with pools, a spa, and what the company hopes will be New York City’s first sportsbook.The ongoing expansion has created over 1,200 jobs, including hundreds of dealer positions. Resorts World expects to hire another 500 people by summer. Some dealers came from out-of-state casinos, while local workers are being trained through a dealer program. State officials project the three downstate casinos could generate $7 billion in gaming tax revenue over 10 years. CBRE has also forecasted annual gaming revenue of up to $5.6 billion at full maturity under a best-case scenario. The opening event attracted elected officials, community leaders, entertainers, and players. Nas, the Queens-raised rapper and project partner, performed and rolled the first dice after the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards said: “We have hit the jackpot, Queens!” Queens Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato stated that the project would bring an “economic shot in the arm” to South Ozone Park. 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) -   Hard Rock Bet has secured a long-term licensing agreement with MLB Players, Inc., granting the sportsbook access to the official name, image, and likeness rights of Major League Baseball players. Key Takeaways Hard Rock Bet now possesses official access to MLB player NIL rights. Player headshots have been integrated into the Hard Rock Bet app. The agreement also encompasses marketing efforts for both mobile and retail sportsbook offerings. MLB Player Imagery Now Available on Hard Rock Bet App Hard Rock Bet users can now view MLB player headshots within the app, featured on player profiles and in prop betting markets. The objective is to enhance the readability of baseball betting and foster a closer connection with the players fans follow. MLB Players, Inc. and OneTeam Partners announced the rollout on Wednesday. This partnership also designates Hard Rock Bet as an official licensed sportsbook of MLB Players, Inc. Mike Primeaux, Executive Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer at Hard Rock Digital, stated:“We are pleased to collaborate with MLB Players, Inc. and OneTeam to introduce official MLB player content to Hard Rock Bet. “The impact and authenticity of player NIL will be instrumental in improving our product experience and deepening fan engagement throughout the season.” Beyond in-app visuals, the agreement empowers Hard Rock Bet to utilize MLB player intellectual property across its marketing campaigns and other initiatives for both its mobile application and retail sportsbook locations. Evan Kaplan, President of MLB Players, Inc., commented:“Fans have a strong connection with athletes. “As sports betting continues to evolve, the user experience is shifting from a display of odds to something more familiar, more intuitive, and more aligned with the game itself. This collaboration with Hard Rock Digital ensures that this connection is genuine, licensed, and reflects the value MLB players contribute to the sport. “By centering the product around the athlete, as Hard Rock Digital is doing, a more immersive experience is created, feeling closer to the game. This is the direction the industry is heading.” This launch coincides with a significant period for Hard Rock Bet's MLB betting activity. The company recently reported that a bettor in Florida transformed a $30.11 six-leg home run parlay into nearly $2 million. The winning selections for the parlay were Riley Greene, Coby Mayo, Jesus Sanchez, Bryce Harper, Jazz Chisholm Jr., and Nick Kurtz. The parlay held odds of +6,576,031, indicating a probability of one in 65,761.31. 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 NCAA has declared former Fordham basketball players Elijah Gray and Will Richardson ineligible following an investigation that connected them to a broader college basketball wagering scandal. Good to Know During the NCAA investigation, Elijah Gray acknowledged violating ethical conduct rules but denied any involvement in manipulating a game. Will Richardson declined to cooperate and provided misleading information, the NCAA stated. Federal investigators have associated the wider college basketball betting scandal with approximately 40 players and 17 institutions. Fordham Betting Case Reaches NCAA Sanctions The NCAA has issued ineligibility sanctions against Elijah Gray and Will Richardson, two former Fordham men's basketball players connected to a college basketball betting scheme that is the subject of a federal inquiry. Both athletes were enrolled at Fordham when the alleged interactions with known gamblers occurred. NCAA investigators questioned them in 2025 after a different investigation revealed that bettors had approached college players regarding game-fixing. Per the NCAA, two bettors reached out to Gray on Instagram, framing the scheme as a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunity. Gray and Richardson subsequently discussed the Fordham versus Duquesne game on Feb. 23, 2024, with the bettors and a former NBA player. The offered payment was between $10,000 and $15,000.Fordham emerged victorious in that contest. Gray informed NCAA investigators that he initially agreed to the plan but later chose not to deliberately lose the game. He also stated he never received any funds. Nonetheless, he conceded that providing information to the bettors breached NCAA ethical conduct standards. The NCAA categorized the infraction as a Level I violation. Richardson provided a conflicting story. He denied participating in discussions with the bettors and claimed he did not speak with Gray about the NCAA interview. The NCAA asserted that evidence contradicted his statements. Investigators determined that Richardson shared information with bettors and compromised the investigation's integrity. Gray later transferred to Temple, appearing in 25 games for the 2024-25 season. He then moved to Wisconsin, where he was dismissed last October for “reasons related to events preceding his enrollment.” Gray has also entered a guilty plea to federal game-fixing charges and is awaiting sentencing. He is among nearly 30 individuals implicated in the federal college basketball betting case. This group includes former NBA player Anthony Blakeney, as well as Marves Fairley and Shane Hennen, who are also named in the NBA betting case involving Jontay Porter and Terry Rozier.Richardson transferred to Albany but did not play for the team. The program dismissed him in December 2025. Neither Gray nor Richardson is currently listed on a college team's roster. Any NCAA institution wishing to reinstate eligibility for either player would be required to submit an appeal. Kennesaw State Case Also Named The NCAA also revealed a separate case concerning former Kennesaw State player Simeon Cottle. Investigators stated that Cottle declined to participate in an investigation related to a March 1, 2024, game against Queens. Federal prosecutors indicted Cottle on charges of wire fraud and bribery. Subsequently, the NCAA alerted Kennesaw State to potential sports betting violations, leading the school to dismiss him from the team. Since Cottle has no remaining college eligibility, the NCAA cannot levy a playing ban. His attorney informed NCAA enforcement staff on March 16 that Cottle would not take part in the investigation. 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 Michigan online gambling market experienced a robust March, with the online casino sector shouldering the majority of the activity. Sports betting saw an uptick from February's figures, buoyed by the March Madness tournament, as the iGaming segment established a new state revenue record. Good to Know Michigan sports betting handle reached $485.1 million in March. Online casino gross receipts hit a record $322.1 million. Sports betting AGR climbed 123.9% year over year to $32.7 million. Online Casino Drives Michigan Gambling Revenue In March, Michigan's iGaming sector significantly outperformed sports betting. According to the Michigan Gaming Control Board, online casino gross receipts hit $322.1 million, exceeding the prior record of $315.8 million set in December 2025. iGaming's adjusted gross receipts increased by 17.9% compared to February and were up 25.6% from March 2025. Combined, sports betting and iGaming operators in Michigan generated $341.8 million in Adjusted Gross Receipts (AGR). A similar trend was reflected in tax payments. Operators contributed $66.4 million to the state of Michigan, with online casinos responsible for $64.1 million of that total. The city of Detroit also received $16.1 million in gaming tax revenue.Despite being overshadowed by iGaming, sportsbooks had a stronger month relative to February. The handle for Michigan online sports betting climbed to $485.1 million, an increase of over $100 million from the post-NFL season total in February. The March Madness basketball tournament was instrumental in attracting bettors, even though March's handle was the second-lowest since August 2025. Gross receipts for sports betting amounted to $50 million, with AGR reaching $32.7 million. This represented a substantial 123.9% increase from March 2025. The hold rate, however, saw minimal movement, edging up to 6.7% from 6.6% in February, after a stronger 7.5% hold in January. State tax revenue from online sports betting was $2.3 million. An additional $684,500 was collected from city wagering taxes and municipal service fees. FanDuel Holds Lead As Fanatics Posts Fast Growth FanDuel maintained its position as the leading Michigan sportsbook, reporting a handle of $162.2 million and an AGR of $13.7 million. While its market lead remained substantial, its performance compared to the previous year declined, with handle down 9.4% and AGR falling 21.7%.DraftKings was next with $135.8 million in wagers, a 6.1% year-over-year increase. Its AGR, however, decreased by 7.2% to $9 million. BetMGM held the third spot with a handle of $58.5 million and an AGR of $3.2 million, both figures lower than those from March 2025. Fanatics demonstrated the most vigorous growth among the major online operators. Its handle grew 36.7% to $52.5 million, while its AGR surged 70.7% to $2.5 million. Caesars also posted improvements, with a handle of $25 million and an AGR of $1.5 million. TheScore Bet recorded a handle of $19 million and an AGR of $1.3 million, both down from the previous year. 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) -   UK heritage bookmaker Betfred has reinforced its dedication to British horse racing during a challenging period, bringing back its £2 million Triple Crown bonus for the 2026 flat season. The operator, which is extending its historic sponsorship of all five British Classics, will award the bonus to the connections of any horse that manages to win the historic trio of the 2000 Guineas, Epsom Derby, and St Leger Stakes – an accomplishment not seen since Nijinsky achieved the sweep in 1970. While the Triple Crown has been won 15 times historically, it has grown more difficult to attain in modern UK horse racing. Probable challengers are expected from the stables of Aidan O’Brien and Charlie Appleby. O’Brien’s horse Gstaad is an 11/2 chance for this weekend’s Guineas and 33/1 for the Derby in June. O’Brien-trained colts Pierre Bonnard and Christmas Day have also become early 6/1 joint favourites with bookmaker Unibet for this year's St Leger. Betfred made history last year as the first firm to sponsor all five of racing’s premier events and will repeat this in 2026, starting with the Guineas festival at Newmarket this weekend. The focus then moves to the Epsom Oaks and Epsom Derby in June, finishing with the 250th edition of the St Leger Stakes at Doncaster Racecourse in September. This pledge is made even as marketing budgets are being squeezed across the UK because of the newly implemented 40% tax on Remote Gaming Duty (RGD). “It was an honour last year to be the first company ever to sponsor all five British Classics, and I am excited to repeat it this year,” stated Betfred founder Fred Done. “That is the reason I am putting up the £2million Triple Crown bonus once more. Nijinsky was certainly one of the legends, and it is high time we celebrated another Triple Crown winner. “Will another horse step up, create history, and achieve it again?” Betfred to push forward despite tax increases The company, which runs approximately 1,350 retail shops plus a Gibraltar-based online gaming site, has been candid about the effect recent tax rises will have on its £1bn gross profit. Fred and his brother Paul led The Sunday Times tax list for 2025 for the first time, paying roughly £400m in taxes. Betfred Management has been transparent about planning for worst-case outcomes, which could involve numerous shop closures. The bookmaker is not isolated in this situation – other leading UK operators like Ladbrokes Coral owner Entain and evoke, the parent company of William Hill, have already verified that a number of their high-street shops will close. Marketing spending has been cut industry-wide, with Coral ending its long-running Coral Cup sponsorship at the Cheltenham Festival, and SBC News seeing an email indicating a reduction in Paddy Power’s marketing team size. Nevertheless, Betfred evidently continues to find worth in sponsorship, maintaining its associations with rugby’s Super League and the PDC World Matchplay at Blackpool’s famous Winter Gardens. A headline-grabbing prize of this magnitude is certain to draw additional focus to the British bookmaker before a flat racing season that promises entertainment, notwithstanding regulatory disagreements within 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.

(AsiaGameHub) -   In a statement provided to SBC News, the Irish Bookmakers Association (IBA) has stood up for the betting sector in response to assertions from the National Lottery. Premier Lotteries Ireland (PLI)—the entity running Ireland’s National Lottery—claims it loses hundreds of millions of euros annually in sales income and tens of millions in funds directed to charitable initiatives. In a report evaluating the National Lottery’s economic effects, PLI contended that the longstanding practice of both physical and online bookmakers accepting wagers on National Lottery draws is hurting lottery sales. The FDJ United-owned company has demanded that the ‘regulatory gap’ separating the National Lottery and Ireland’s large licensed betting industry be eliminated. Two additional groups—representing charities and retailers—have aligned themselves with this call. In reply, Sharon Byrne, Chairperson of the IBA, stated: “We completely reject the National Lottery’s position. Our patrons have been placing bets on lotteries through their local bookmakers for more than three decades now. “Wagering on lottery results is no different from betting on the outcome of any other event, and it’s a well-established offering for many shops—shops that are already dealing with new rules and regulations under the soon-to-be-implemented licensing system.” Is Ireland’s evolving betting scene facing too many changes? The regulatory shifts Byrne mentioned were brought about by the Gambling Regulation Act 2024. This legislation was presented to the Oireachtas in 2022 by the Irish government, with the goal of updating Ireland’s outdated gambling rules. One major update from the act was the establishment of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI), a new sector-specific regulator that will assume full control of licensing processes this year. The Act also created a Social Impact Fund, into which operators are required to contribute annually. The funds are used to back gambling harm prevention and treatment schemes, along with other projects. Like most laws, however, this one has left some parties unsatisfied—whether it’s those pushing for tighter rules on gambling advertising in Ireland, or the National Lottery operator and its objections to bookmakers taking lottery bets. For the IBA and the bookmakers it represents, removing a revenue source for betting companies could be an excessive move at a time when firms are adjusting to regulatory changes and some are re-evaluating their presence on Ireland’s high streets. “Our members are supportive of the new Gambling Regulation Act, but it’s crucial that there’s a level playing field,” Byrne noted. Putting aside any regulatory hurdles or disputes, Ireland continues to be a key target market for numerous betting operators—both large and small. Just last week, Eurasia Sport‘s 3et became the newest entrant to the market, following Fitzwilliam Sports and DragonBet. 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 fresh player has entered the iGaming industry—though it’s far from a newcomer in terms of expertise. BetCentury signals the comeback of ex-Kindred CEO Henrik Tjärnström, who now heads a venture designed to navigate the demands of today’s regulated markets. BetCentury is launching first in Sweden, with its initial brand FunkySpins Casino offering a product focused on structure, ease of access, and user control. This isn’t just a standard market debut; it demonstrates how seasoned leadership builds a business from scratch in a landscape where regulatory requirements are stricter and there’s little room for mistakes. This context is key. Entry hurdles have grown, compliance rules have become more rigorous, and operational errors now have more serious impacts. Many new operators find it hard to adjust. But BetCentury starts off differently: it has a clear operating framework, distinct priorities, and leaders who’ve successfully managed similar conditions on a large scale. Leadership Rooted in Experience BetCentury’s uniqueness lies not just in its goals, but in its core foundation. Henrik Tjärnström spent more than 10 years leading one of the industry’s biggest operators through both growth and regulatory changes. This experience directly shapes how the new venture is organized. This isn’t a leadership team figuring things out as they go. It’s a group that knows the ins and outs of regulated markets—from licensing procedures to operational structures and compliance rules. This clarity is evident in the company’s structure. There’s no sign of last-minute, reactive decisions or disjointed leadership. Instead, BetCentury runs on a clear framework, with roles, duties, and priorities set from the very beginning. Such high-level experience usually leads to fewer inefficiencies in the early stages. Teams that have scaled operations in regulated settings often spot potential issues before they become major problems. BetCentury’s strategy shows an intentional focus on getting things done—using experience not just as a story to tell, but as a practical edge. Sweden as a Strategic Entry Point Selecting Sweden as the launch market was a strategic choice. It’s one of Europe’s most heavily regulated markets, with strict supervision and clear compliance demands right from the start. This makes it an ideal testing ground. Systems, processes, and product design are put under immediate pressure. Any flaws are caught early, so there’s little space for trial and error after launch.BetCentury seems to welcome this challenge. Launching in Sweden lets the company stress-test its infrastructure in a controlled yet demanding setting. This lowers long-term operational risks. Fixing issues early on is much more efficient than letting unresolved problems grow as the company expands into multiple countries. Instead of launching in many markets at once, BetCentury has chosen a targeted, gradual rollout. The strategy puts stability and validation ahead of fast growth—a decision that fits with today’s market conditions. Timing in a Changing Market Landscape BetCentury’s entry into the market is timed on purpose. The iGaming industry has changed, with stricter regulatory systems now influencing how operators start and expand. This change has split the industry into two groups: companies with strong operational bases are better able to meet regulatory demands, while those less prepared often face delays, compliance issues, or slow growth. BetCentury was designed for this environment. Its structure is based on today’s market realities, not outdated methods. This affects every aspect, from product development to how quickly it rolls out.The focus isn’t on getting noticed right away, but on being sustainable in the long run. In today’s market, consistency and compliance are more and more linked to success. BetCentury sets itself up this way from the start. Product Positioning and Early Direction BetCentury’s first product shows a clear approach to development. The initial setup is purposefully simple, avoiding extra complexity in the early stages. This strategy allows for operational flexibility. A controlled structure makes it simpler to adjust quickly based on real-world performance data—an important benefit in regulated markets. The launch phase acts as a real-time test. User behaviour, platform reliability, and game performance are watched closely. Metrics like loading speeds, session flow, and engagement trends give instant feedback. Performance, loading speeds, and technical reliability are closely monitored. Customer support provides additional insights. Talking directly to users can uncover repeated issues or gaps in the platform. This info is used to make ongoing improvements. Expansion Outlook and Industry Implications The next steps are unclear. Although expanding into other regulated markets would be a logical move, there are no confirmed plans right now. From an outside view, a phased rollout seems probable. A successful launch in Sweden could make it easier to enter similar markets, but a slower, controlled strategy would fit with current industry trends. As regulatory requirements grow, fast expansion becomes riskier. Many operators are now focusing on stability and proven performance before growing. Recent data from Spelinspektionen backs this up. Participation levels are steady: 72% of respondents were active in 2025, versus 71% in 2024. In this kind of market, a gradual growth strategy isn’t just possible—it’s becoming the expected norm. Building for Sustainable Growth and Stability BetCentury is entering the market at a time when experience and execution are being more closely examined. With its established leadership, targeted launch market, and structured operating model, the company is different from most new players. Right now, the focus seems to be on building a solid base instead of growing quickly. How this base develops will eventually determine any future growth. In a market characterized by stricter regulation and steady (not rapid) growth, this gradual approach isn’t just relevant—it’s becoming more and more common. 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) -   Codere Group has released its full-year 2025 financial results, recording growth across both its retail and online business lines as the company evaluates a possible $2 billion (£1.73 billion) sale. Group gross win – defined as the total sum the company has won (and its customers have lost) over a set period – hit €1.36 billion, marking a 3.2% year-over-year increase (13% when adjusted for constant currency). At the same time, adjusted EBITDA climbed 26% to €225.1 million, underscoring improved profitability following its recent balance sheet restructuring. Its strong performance was powered by core retail markets, most notably Spain and Argentina. In Spain, operational efficiency gains and “optimisation of its machine fleet” lifted margins, while Argentina delivered robust growth despite currency headwinds, backed by ongoing investment in gaming floors and equipment. Codere’s online division, which is publicly traded on the Nasdaq Capital Market in New York, also cemented its position as a key growth pillar, posting higher profitability and supporting the group’s wider omnichannel strategy across Spanish-speaking markets. The company invested €121.2 million in 2025, with most funds allocated to maintaining and upgrading existing operations, and ended the year with €118.6 million in cash following three consecutive quarters of positive cash generation. After net debt fell sharply following a late 2024 debt-for-equity restructuring, the group’s current leverage ratio stands at around 1.1x EBITDA – giving it a more stable financial foundation as it drafts its new 2026-2030 strategic plan. The Madrid-headquartered firm cut its total debt from roughly €1.4 billion to under €200 million as a result of the restructuring. However, market attention is increasingly shifting to the company’s ownership structure. Codere is reportedly weighing a sale valued at around $2 billion, a move that would come just one year after the aforementioned restructuring handed control to a broad group of bondholders and institutional creditors. Uncertainties continue to surround Codere Speaking on the iGaming Daily podcast, SBC’s Editor at Large, Ted Menmuir, said of the potential sale: “It seems clear that the narrative being pushed here is that whoever buys this company will acquire the second largest gambling brand in Spain with both a retail and online presence. They will also gain a foothold in the markets of Mexico, Uruguay, Argentina and Colombia. “However, I believe you have to take Codere’s past track record into account. This is a company that was saddled with €2 billion of debt over the last ten years. It only just recently concluded its capital renegotiation with bondholders, which cut that debt load by 95%, so there is still no clear consensus on what Codere has actually proven it can deliver long term. “If you look at this from a high level, it is obvious that some form of private equity fund would be the most likely buyer. On the European front, Lottomatica is a company that has talked of leading global expansion, but I don’t think they will have the appetite to take on a company that carries so many existing liabilities.”  Questions also remain over the business’s long-term sustainability. The firm only recently emerged from an extended period of heavy debt, and potential buyers may weigh that troubled history against its improved current financial profile. As noted earlier, Codere Online recently reported revenue growth – a 6% annual increase to €224 million in 2025, fueled by rising player numbers.  However, its future outlook is clouded by rising tax rates in key markets such as Mexico and Colombia, which could squeeze margins going forward. A 19% VAT penalty has been imposed on online gambling gross gaming revenue (GGR) in Colombia. Meanwhile, the Mexican Senate approved a 2026 fiscal package that raises the Special Tax on Production and Services (IEPS) on online gambling and land-based casinos from 30% to 50% of GGR. Taxation in Spain has also been a major point of discussion, and it remains to be seen going forward whether Codere can find a buyer willing to pay $2 billion for the firm and potentially compete with Cirsa, the industry’s largest player in Spain. 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) -   Kambi is relying on new alliances in France and Canada, together with a range of product upgrades centered on the FIFA World Cup, to maintain its first-quarter momentum throughout the year. The Swedish betting technology firm generated €43.5m (£40m) in Q1 2025, a year-on-year increase of 4.9% from €41.5m. Its adjusted EBITDA saw a significant 63.5% rise, moving from a loss of €3.5m to a positive €5.7m. This positive EBITDA trend was mirrored in operating profit, which grew 80% year-on-year from €800,000 to €4.2m. This improvement was likely supported by a 2.1% reduction in operating expenses to €31.9m (Q1 2025: €32.6m) and a 0.4% dip in total expenses to €39.2m (€39.3m). Kambi responds to ‘external challenges’ Based on its Q1 results, Kambi anticipates concluding 2026 with a full-year adjusted EBITDA in the range of €20m to €25m. The group is also preparing for adjustments in response to multiple tax increases affecting the iGaming sector globally, from Europe to Latin America. Werner Becher, Chief Executive Officer, explained that the company has incorporated the new sports betting tax in Colombia into its 2026 projections. While this is expected to reduce revenue by approximately €4m, Becher stated that “we remain confident in our ability to deliver adjusted EBITA within our stated guidance range”. “While external challenges remain, we have started the year on the front foot,” he commented. “Kambi continues to offer market‑leading turnkey and odds feed products, we are progressing on efficiency and productivity initiatives, and we are entering the busiest period of the global sports calendar with confidence. “Against this backdrop, I believe the broader outlook for the business remains bright and I am encouraged by the opportunities ahead.” Lottery partnerships provide significant boost Key to Kambi's 2026 revenue and EBITDA forecasts are two newly signed partnerships in the Canadian lottery sector. Alongside its Q1 earnings, the company today announced agreements with the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) and Atlantic Lottery Corporation (ALC). The group has obtained a sportsbook technology and services contract with both lottery corporations, effectively operating a multi-provincial sportsbook solution that covers half the nation. These two Crown Corporations serve seven of Canada's ten provinces; BCLC manages sports betting in Saskatchewan and Manitoba in addition to its home province of British Columbia. Kambi won the contract after a Request for Proposal (RFP) process led by ALC, which aimed to find a single supplier for a national sports betting platform for multiple lottery operators. Under the agreement, Kambi will supply its complete turnkey sportsbook product. Becher said: “Being chosen to operate this multi-province sportsbook solution is a powerful validation of Kambi’s reliable technology, regulatory knowledge, and demonstrated capacity to perform at scale. “ALC and BCLC have established a clear plan for a unified, consistent sportsbook, and we are honoured to support its next stage with our high‑performance, compliant, and proven turnkey sportsbook. “Kambi has extensive experience collaborating with lottery and state‑owned operators globally, and we anticipate providing a premier sports betting experience for players in numerous Canadian provinces.” These alliances further broaden Kambi's client portfolio, now significantly featuring Canadian lotteries. The moves by BCLC and ALC come after a Q1 agreement with the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG). Beyond Canada, Kambi also anticipates its partnership with Pari Mutuel Urbain (PMU), France's horse racing pool betting operator, to yield benefits in 2026. Becher commended its new partner as “one of France’s most established and recognisable betting brands”. “This launch marks Kambi’s introduction into the regulated French sports betting market, and I am hopeful about aiding PMU’s goal to increase its market share in one of Europe’s largest betting markets,” he added. “The PMU deal, combined with our Canadian expansion, demonstrates Kambi’s rising importance to major national and institutional operators.” Lastly, Kambi's leadership provided an update on its preparations ahead of the World Cup. Becher noted the firm is 'working closely with partners' and has scheduled a series of product improvements for its frontend, rewards, and trading systems. “These enhancements are intended not just for the tournament, but to provide enduring value long after it concludes,” he stated. “Simultaneously, we are further developing our AI‑driven trading capabilities. “After initial deployments in tennis and basketball, over 60% of Q1 bets were priced and traded by AI, a figure expected to grow further following the recent extension into ATP tennis.” 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) -   French officials have indicted 88 individuals following a surge of violent attacks targeting cryptocurrency holders. The incidents involve the practice commonly called wrench attacks, where criminals use threats, violence, or confinement to force victims to turn over their crypto passwords or private keys. Good to Know France has documented more than 135 crypto-linked kidnapping and robbery cases since 2023. Wrench attacks focus on gaining access to private keys, passwords, and direct entry to digital wallets. Blockchain security company CertiK reported that wrench attacks grew 75% in 2025. Crypto-related crime does not always take place via online hacks or phishing links. In France, authorities state that organized criminal groups have used intimidation and kidnapping to gain direct access to digital assets. The National Anti-Organized Crime Prosecutor’s Office, commonly known as PNACO, has tied more than 135 incidents to crypto-connected violence since 2023. Most recently, French authorities have indicted 88 people following a string of attacks targeting digital asset owners. The term wrench attack takes its name from an xkcd webcomic. The concept is simple but frightening: instead of attempting to break encryption, a criminal threatens or harms the individual who controls the crypto wallet. For Bitcoin and other crypto users, this means protecting private keys now requires accounting for personal safety, not just online security.A February report from SIRASCO, a branch of the Judicial Police, notes that most attacks follow a layered organizational structure. Plot organizers often operate from outside France, while recruiters based within France find young people with past criminal records. These recruits then carry out online threats, physical assaults, or kidnappings. Victims are most often men between 20 and 35 years old with open, visible connections to crypto, including investors, entrepreneurs, and crypto influencers. Public displays of wealth, traceable online activity, and known involvement in digital assets make some users easier for criminals to identify as targets. CertiK has labeled physical attacks against crypto holders a “structural threat” to digital asset ownership. The blockchain security firm confirmed wrench attacks jumped 75% in 2025. The company recorded 71 incidents that year, with total losses topping $40.9 million, which is a 44% increase from the previous year. 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) -   Since its launch in May of 2025,YGG Play’s revenue has exceeded $9 million,with LOL Land continuing to drive most activity across the platform. Key Highlights YGG Play generated over $676,000 across multiple games during Q1 of 2026. LOL Land brought in $563,599 in Q1 revenue and reached a lifetime total of $8.59 million. Yield Guild holds $26 million in treasury assets to support operations into next year. LOL Land Remains YGG Play’s Top Revenue Driver YGG Play has gained early traction through a small set of titles rather than a wide launch wave.LOL Land stays the clear leader,with $563,599 in Q1 2026 revenue and $8.59 million in lifetime earnings. The game has kept players engaged with fresh content and competitive features.Sugar Valley added a new board area,while Point Strike gave users another way to compete in-game.These updates together helped LOL Land stay ahead of other titles in YGG Play’s catalog. GIGACHADBAT also delivered stronger results,with revenue up 68% from the previous quarter.Waifu Sweeper,which launched at the start of 2026,has begun building its own audience via new game modes and competitive play. YGG Play also expanded token activity around GIGACHADBAT.The $CHAD token launched in February 2026 and received contributions above its targets.It offers daily benefits to holders,giving players an extra reason to return and interact with the game. The YGG Play Launchpad has added new tools.Boost lets players temporarily enhance gameplay or increase token collection rates.Redeem provides a simpler way for users to convert gaming points into $YGG tokens. Community work has shifted to YGG Pilipinas,which now leads Community Questing operations.Events and campaigns have drawn thousands of participants,while appearances at major industry events like Consensus Hong Kong have helped YGG Play build wider visibility in blockchain gaming. Yield Guild enters its next phase with a stable balance sheet.Its treasury holds $26 million in assets spread across stablecoins,treasury bills,and major crypto tokens.The group says these funds can support operations into next year even without additional revenue streams. 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 report spearheaded by the University of Cambridge has identified a pronounced gender disparity in gambling advertising on Meta's platforms in Ireland, revealing that ads were delivered to significantly more male than female accounts prior to the implementation of new national advertising regulations. Good to Know In Ireland, gambling advertisements were seen by 12.7 million male Meta accounts and 5.5 million female accounts. The analysis examined 411 advertisements from 88 gambling operators licensed in Ireland from March 2024 to February 2025. This data was collected before major provisions of the Gambling Regulation Act 2024 became active in March 2025. Young Men Drove Most Gambling Ad Reach New research led by the University of Cambridge indicates that gambling ads on Meta platforms in Ireland were seen by over twice as many men as women. The study utilized Meta advertising data released in compliance with the European Union's Digital Services Act. Academics from the Academic Forum for the Study of Gambling analyzed 411 ads from 88 licensed Irish gambling operators. The sample included users aged 18 to 65 and over during the period from March 2024 to February 2025. Male accounts constituted a substantially larger portion of the audience. The advertisements reached 12,690,245 male Meta accounts, versus 5,458,438 female accounts. Overall, the ads achieved 18,389,653 unique account impressions during the timeframe.Merely 91 ads, or 22%, were explicitly configured to target only men. No ads targeted women exclusively. The majority of advertisements, 74%, were set to an "All" gender target, yet their actual delivery remained heavily skewed toward male users. Dr Elena Petrovskaya, the report's lead author and a faculty member at the Cambridge Department of Computer Science and Technology, stated: “Initially, not a large number of adverts were specifically aimed at men.” “However, even when adverts were configured to reach all genders, they still predominantly reached that highly vulnerable demographic of young men.“This demonstrates that simply by placing ads on social media, companies are still accessing young men – the group other studies identify as being at greatest risk from gambling-related harms.” The age distribution provided further insight. Accounts belonging to individuals aged 25 to 34 formed the largest segment, with 6,246,408 reached, accounting for 33.9%. Those aged 35 to 44 were next, with 4,701,885 reached, or 25.5%. Collectively, users between 25 and 44 years old represented nearly 60% of the total audience. One particular Betfair advertisement reached 1,320,179 unique accounts, a figure roughly equivalent to 26% of Ireland's population. The five most-viewed ads together reached 3,688,413 accounts. Researchers suggested that creative content centered on sports, particularly football, likely contributed to the higher delivery rates to male users. They also highlighted the role of Meta's advertising systems, where algorithmic delivery can influence the final audience composition even when brands select broad targeting parameters. Ireland already exhibits high levels of gambling engagement. The report notes a lifetime gambling participation rate of 64.5%, with 3.3% of the population classified as high-risk gamblers. Men aged 25 to 34 display the highest rate of risky gambling at 1.3%, compared to just 0.2% for women in the same age bracket. “Even in a small-population country like Ireland, the scale of account reach for these ads was staggering,” remarked Petrovskaya. “We selected Ireland as a case study of a setting where a contemporary gambling regulatory system was not yet in place.”Ireland has subsequently amended its regulations. The Gambling Regulation Act 2024 came into force in March 2025, establishing the Gambling Regulatory Authority. This legislation enacted stricter advertising controls, including a prohibition on gambling ads on broadcast and on-demand audiovisual services between 5:30 am and 9:00 pm. On social media and video platforms, gambling advertisements may now only target users who actively follow a licensed gambling operator. Dr Deidre Leahy from MTU in Cork, a co-author of the report, commented: “This study offers crucial insights that set a baseline for the extent of gambling advertising on social media in Ireland before the establishment of a regulatory framework. “This baseline will be vital for evaluating the effectiveness of the reforms introduced by 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) -   On Tuesday, former NBA player and assistant coach Damon Jones admitted guilt to two counts of conspiracy related to wire fraud. These charges place him at the center of two federal investigations involving the leak of NBA betting data and the operation of dishonest poker games. Good to Know Damon Jones confessed to sharing confidential NBA injury updates with gamblers. Federal authorities stated the leaked data concerned LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Jones also acknowledged using his professional status to attract high-net-worth individuals to rigged poker matches. Jones Confesses to Involvement in Betting Plot Jones entered his guilty pleas during two separate court sessions in New York. In the sports gambling matter, he admitted to using information “acquired through my connections as a former player,” per reports from The Associated Press. According to an October 2025 indictment, federal prosecutors alleged that Jones provided bettors with injury details regarding LeBron James and Anthony Davis. On Tuesday, Jones conceded that he utilized non-public information to defraud sportsbooks and breached the NBA’s code of conduct. “I wish to offer a sincere apology to the court, my family, my colleagues, and the National Basketball Association,” Jones remarked in a statement read during the hearing.The legal proceedings also involve Terry Rozier, the former Miami Heat guard currently facing bribery charges, along with nearly 30 other defendants. Jones had initially entered a not guilty plea before requesting a change in early April. Prosecutors claimed that before a February 9, 2023, game between the Los Angeles Lakers and Milwaukee Bucks, Jones instructed bettors to “place a significant bet on Milwaukee” before the public was informed that James would not play. Jones, who served as an unofficial assistant coach for the Lakers, reportedly told the group to “bet enough” so he could receive a share of the profits. The case further details a January 2024 game involving Anthony Davis. Authorities alleged that Jones received a $2,500 payment via a peer-to-peer app for Davis’s injury status. Because Davis ultimately played in the game, co-conspirator Marves Fairley later sought a refund of the money. Poker Case Increases Legal Jeopardy Jones also pleaded guilty in a separate investigation regarding fixed poker games in the Hamptons, New York, and Miami. He admitted to leveraging his NBA profile to “attract high-stakes gamblers” while knowing the games were fraudulent.“I am deeply sorry to everyone impacted by my actions,” Jones stated. Federal officials reported that more than 10 victims lost approximately $10 million in the poker scheme, which they claim had ties to organized crime. Suspended Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups was also charged in connection with the case. Jones has agreed to pay $73,000 in restitution. He is scheduled to be sentenced by two judges on January 6, 2027. The AP noted that sentencing guidelines suggest 21 to 27 months in prison for the sports betting charges and 48 to 63 months for the poker 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.