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(AsiaGameHub) -   Penn Entertainment kicked off 2026 with rising demand at retail locations and improved iCasino performance. The firm reported first-quarter revenue of $1.4 billion, with segment adjusted EBITDAR reaching $471.4 million. Good to Know Penn noted that Q1 saw its most significant retail expansion in three years. The interactive division recorded $358.3 million in revenue alongside a $10.8 million adjusted EBITDA loss. theScore Bet is preparing for its mobile sports wagering and iCasino debut in Alberta. Retail Locations and iCasino Drive Penn’s Q1 Performance Penn Entertainment experienced a surge in foot traffic at its regional properties, with guests spending more during their visits. CEO Jay Snowden highlighted that increased attendance and higher spending levels resulted in the most substantial quarterly growth for rated customer segments in three years. Snowden remarked: “Higher visitation rates and increased spending per guest across the company drove year-over-year growth in theoretical revenue for all rated segments, marking our best quarterly gain in three years.”Adjusted EBITDAR for the retail segment also saw year-over-year improvement, with steady demand persisting through April. Penn has directed capital toward several sites, including the M Resort in Nevada, Ameristar Black Hawk in Colorado, Hollywood Columbus in Ohio, and Hollywood Casino Aurora in Illinois. Regional casinos continue to serve as a vital foundation for Penn, as many patrons reside near the venues. Snowden pointed out that the majority of regional guests live within a 30-minute commute, which helps mitigate the impact of rising costs like gasoline. The company also highlighted improved performance from its digital wing. While the interactive segment brought in $358.3 million in revenue, it saw a $10.8 million adjusted EBITDA loss, which management attributed partly to expenses related to the upcoming launch of theScore Bet in Alberta. The digital approach is now prioritizing iCasino more heavily. Penn reported a roughly 15% year-over-year increase in iCasino revenue, with standalone iCasino operations hitting record quarterly revenue in Q1 and a monthly peak in March.Chief Technology Officer Aaron LaBerge noted that while online sports betting has been more sluggish, online casino growth remains robust. He explained that the company has scaled back marketing in states that only offer sports betting, focusing instead on "hybrid" states that permit both iCasino and sports wagering. Penn anticipates that Alberta will serve as a new growth engine for theScore Bet. Having secured regulatory approval from Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis, the company plans to offer both mobile sports betting and iCasino. Snowden mentioned that based on their Ontario experience, they expect to capture a similar market share in Alberta. Snowden characterized 2026 as a year dedicated to operational execution, generating free cash flow, reducing corporate expenses, and maintaining disciplined capital allocation. 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) -   Next month, S&K Gaming will open 400 Horses Casino in Polson, Montana, launching a new tribal gaming property that features over 300 gaming machines, a full-service restaurant, and more than 75 new job openings. Good to Know The grand opening is scheduled for May 5 at 2 p.m. The casino spans 34,000 square feet and is located off Irvine Flats Road. 60% of the casino’s revenue goes back to tribal communities to fund social services. 400 Horses Casino Brings New Tribal Gaming Space to Polson The new 400 Horses Casino is located on a 79-acre tribal land parcel, with approximately 10 acres of that tract leased for the casino project. The land was incorporated into the city of Polson in 2023, which allows the casino to connect to municipal water and sewer systems instead of relying on a private well or septic drain field. Construction kicked off on April 9, 2025, after final project plans received approval in late 2024. The development has been in motion since 2021, operated under the enterprise structure of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. Inside the venue, S&K Gaming will offer Class II slot machines and electronic table games. Live table games are not planned for the casino’s launch. The casino will open with more than 300 gaming machines, and an additional 100 machines are expected to be added later. — Why Does Montana Have So Many Casinos? — The property also includes 371 Bar and Grill, a 70-seat restaurant with both indoor and patio dining that overlooks Flathead Lake. Chef Pedro Vera, former executive chef at Finley Point Grill, will lead the restaurant’s kitchen. The restaurant will keep extended hours that align with the casino’s operating schedule. S&K Gaming designed the new site to fix layout problems at Kwataqnuk Resort & Casino, where gaming areas were added after the hotel was originally constructed. The company also drew on experience from Gray Wolf Peak Casino to create a more efficient floor plan for the new location. Traffic improvements around the site are still part of the full project. S&K Gaming has partnered with the Montana Department of Transportation on road realignment and new turn lanes, though some upgrades may be completed after the casino opens.The name 400 Horses came from community input and honors Chief Alexander, a central leader in the formation of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. Chief Alexander, also known as No Horses, was reported to own roughly 400 horses in the later years of his life. After the Polson casino opens, S&K Gaming plans to renovate Kwataqnuk Resort, with a focus on updating the property to be more family friendly. 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) -   Thursday night’s NFL Draft betting kept fans plenty engaged, but sportsbooks faced a tougher go of it. Multiple first-round surprises allowed bettors to cash in on prop markets, while both Circa and BetMGM posted mixed results across player draft position, team selection, and top 10 betting markets. Good to Know Circa took another loss on NFL Draft betting, though the overall damage remained manageable. BetMGM paid out bettors who wagered on Jeremiyah Love at No. 3 and Ty Simpson being selected by the Rams. Long-shot picks including Mansoor Delane at No. 6 and Carnell Tate at No. 4 delivered sharp, profitable results for bettors. Bettors Score Big on Multiple NFL Draft Prop Bets Per Mike Palm, vice president of operations for Circa, The D, and Golden Gate sportsbooks in Las Vegas, Circa had another losing NFL Draft. The operator took relatively smaller hits when Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love went third overall to the Arizona Cardinals and Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson landed with the Los Angeles Rams at No. 13. The more challenging result came from Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy. Bettors backed the over on his draft position, and he fell outside the first round. Circa also paid bettors who took the under on LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane after the Kansas City Chiefs traded up to No. 6 to select him. Utah offensive tackle Spencer Fano gave Circa one of its few positive results. Cleveland took him ninth overall, which helped the sportsbook on the under bet, but winning opportunities remained limited. BetMGM also described draft night as uneven. Fernando Mendoza going first overall gave the book a strong result after his odds opened at +10,000 and later sat at -10,000 for an extended stretch. However, wagers on Love at No. 3 and Simpson to the Rams both went against the sportsbook. Simpson also helped bettors cash in on the over 1.5 quarterbacks in the first round prop. He had been +800 to go to the Rams and closed with a draft position of 29.5. The under hit easily. BetMGM did retain wager volume on another popular Simpson market, as the Steelers did not take him at +1,600. Love drew heavy betting interest ahead of the draft. His odds to go third overall were +800 a week earlier, then closed at -110. He also led the No. 3 pick market with more than 30% of the total handle. Later, Seattle took his Notre Dame teammate Jadarian Price with the last pick of the first round, helping the over 1.5 running backs prop cash with 87% of bets and 61% of the total money behind it. The No. 2 pick market also brought heavy action at BetMGM. The New York Jets took Texas Tech pass rusher David Bailey, who closed at +175. Ohio State pass rusher Arvell Reese had moved from +115 on Thursday morning to -250 before the draft, but he went fifth to the Giants at +2,000. Delane created one of the biggest long-shot results for bettors. BetMGM had him as high as +10,000 to go sixth overall, and he still sat at +4,000 on Wednesday with limited tickets and handle. Ohio State receiver Carnell Tate also hurt the book when Tennessee took him fourth overall. BetMGM had offered +5,000 on Tate that day, while Love had been the clear favorite for that pick. BetMGM avoided larger payouts across a few other markets. San Diego State cornerback Chris Johnson was the only one of the three most heavily wagered first-round players to get picked on Thursday, with Miami taking him at No. 27. Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez led by ticket share, while Iowa offensive tackle Gennings Dunker also drew interest but missed the first round. Top 10 betting went better for BetMGM. Arizona State receiver Jordan Styles went eighth to the New Orleans Saints at -500, but USC receiver Makai Lemon fell to No. 20 after Philadelphia acquired the pick from Dallas. Lemon had been the most bet player by tickets to go in the top 10 at +850. 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) -   Lawmakers in Minnesota have advanced a bill to ban prediction markets—potentially the first state-level legislative prohibition of its kind in the U.S. The Senate Finance Committee approved the measure unanimously on Friday, sending it to the full Senate for consideration. Good to Know The legislation targets prediction markets linked to sports, politics, court decisions, legislative actions, and violent incidents. Legal retail or online sports betting is not permitted in Minnesota. Prediction market operators will likely challenge the bill in court if it becomes law. Minnesota Focuses on Event Contracts Ahead of Senate Vote Sen. John Marty is pushing the bill as a way to clarify Minnesota’s gambling laws. He argues that prediction market companies use federal commodities rules to frame event contracts as investment products, while marketing them to consumers as wagers on real-world outcomes. The bill now awaits a vote on the Senate floor. If senators pass it, the House must also approve the measure before it can become law. The proposal covers a wide range of event contracts. Sports contests, elections, legislative actions, court rulings, and events involving death or violence would all fall under the ban. However, Minnesota will still allow existing exceptions like the state lottery, raffles, and limited social betting—including informal March Madness pools.The legislation also narrows protections for futures contracts. Under the bill, a futures product would lose its exemption if a company structures or markets it like a betting product. Marty told the Senate Finance Committee that prediction markets have spread quickly, creating confusion over where investing ends and gambling begins. He also noted that the measure does not add new criminal penalties or fresh enforcement powers. Instead, supporters say it gives regulators clearer ground to stand on under current law. A legal fight is likely. Prediction market operators, and possibly federal officials, have argued that federal regulators hold exclusive authority over these platforms. Minnesota would thus test how far state gambling laws can extend against event contracts. The debate also comes as Minnesota remains one of 11 states without legal retail or online sportsbooks. A sports betting legalization bill introduced during the current legislative session has made little progress and appears unlikely to pass. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Tennessee legislators have given the green light to SB 2136, legislation designed to prohibit sweepstakes casinos and internet-based casino-style platforms utilizing virtual currency systems. The proposal is now moving through the formal enrollment process prior to arriving at the desk of Gov. Bill Lee. Key Points Following the resolution of the final wording by House and Senate members, SB 2136 successfully passed both legislative chambers. This legislation specifically targets sweepstakes casino applications that operate on virtual or multi-currency frameworks. Once the bill is delivered to him, Gov. Bill Lee will have a 10-day window to take action. SB 2136 Reinstates Sweepstakes Casino Language in Tennessee Tennessee is poised to potentially become the latest state to outlaw sweepstakes casinos. On Thursday, legislators sanctioned an updated iteration of SB 2136 after a joint committee composed of House and Senate members resolved prior disputes regarding the text. The legislation zeroes in on digital applications that mimic the appearance and functionality of traditional casino gambling sites. It encompasses mobile apps where participants utilize virtual currencies—such as complimentary credits that can subsequently be exchanged for monetary rewards or prizes. The Senate initially approved a previous iteration of the bill in March without any dissent. Subsequently, the House altered the proposal by eliminating explicit mentions of sweepstakes casinos and shifting focus toward general gambling enforcement. Since Senators declined to accept that version, both chambers appointed delegates to a committee to formulate a unified final text.The legislation that was ultimately passed reintroduces the specific language regarding sweepstakes gaming. Furthermore, it categorizes infractions under the Tennessee Consumer Protection Act of 1977, providing officials with an additional legal avenue to target operators and advertisers. Pursuant to SB 2136, operating or advertising the specified sweepstakes casino platforms would be classified as a felony offense. In addition to gambling allegations, regulatory bodies and prosecutors would have the authority to pursue civil fines. The statute is set to go into force instantly once it is enacted. The decision now rests with Gov. Bill Lee. Should he fail to sign or veto the bill within 10 days of its receipt, SB 2136 will automatically be enacted into law without his signature. 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) -   Las Vegas Sands announced improved first-quarter performance, driven by increased revenue, enhanced gaming activity, and stronger earnings from its operations in both Macau and Singapore. The company's net income saw a 57.1% surge to $641 million, and total net revenue grew by 25.3% year-over-year to $3.59 billion. Good to Know Las Vegas Sands exceeded analyst forecasts, reporting adjusted earnings of 91 cents per share. Revenue from Macau grew 23.7% to $2.11 billion, with The Londoner Macao and The Venetian Macao as the primary contributors. Revenue at Marina Bay Sands increased by 27.9% to $1.49 billion, bolstered by robust gaming demand and elevated room rates. Macau And Singapore Lift Las Vegas Sands Q1 Results Adjusted earnings per share came in at 91 cents, surpassing analyst projections of 78 cents. The consolidated adjusted property EBITDA also increased by 24.6% to $1.42 billion, underscoring the significant role of Asian demand in the quarter's success. Macau continued to be the primary revenue driver. Sands China recorded a 45.5% jump in net income to $294 million, with regional revenue hitting $2.11 billion. Gaming demand was supported by tourist activity during the Lunar New Year period, and all five of the company's integrated resorts in Macau reported revenue growth. Within the Macau portfolio, The Londoner Macao was the top performer with revenue of $754 million. It was followed by The Venetian Macao, which generated $710 million. The Plaza Macao and Four Seasons Macao produced $290 million, while The Parisian Macao reached $229 million and Sands Macao contributed $93 million.Adjusted property EBITDA for Macau climbed to $633 million, although the margin softened to 29.9% from 31.3% the previous year. Despite this, the region provided a solid foundation for the company's first-quarter expansion. Singapore provided additional momentum. Marina Bay Sands reported revenue of $1.49 billion, a 27.9% year-on-year increase. Its adjusted property EBITDA grew 30.2% to $788 million, achieving a margin of 53.0%. This result was fueled by higher rolling chip volume, increased mass gaming and slot play, as well as higher room rates and strong occupancy levels. During the quarter, Las Vegas Sands also returned capital to shareholders. The company bought back $740 million of its common stock and maintained its dividend payment. The management team is concentrating on the planned IR2 expansion in Singapore. The Marina Bay Sands project is set to include new luxury suites, along with entertainment, dining, and event facilities. Construction is slated for completion in 2030, with an opening anticipated in 2031. The company recently granted a multi-billion-dollar construction contract to Singapore-based builder Woh Hup.The company also noted that current capacity constraints are becoming more apparent as premium visitor numbers increase. While VIP demand fluctuates with customer mix, management continues to regard mass gaming and slot play as the central profit engines for Marina Bay Sands. 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) -   BetVictor has introduced a new brand campaign titled “For All Your Favourite Things,” which focuses on sports, betting, and the typical weekend routines of supporters. This initiative also marks the first project delivered by Barn Door Studios and Bountiful Cow after their recent collaboration with the brand. Good to Know This campaign represents BetVictor's most significant investment in audio-visual media so far. The advertising will appear on Sky, ITVX, Channel 4, Prime Video, Netflix, YouTube, as well as various digital and social media platforms. Key Premier League matches like Arsenal vs Newcastle and Chelsea vs Leeds are featured as part of the campaign's launch weekend. BetVictor Puts Sport And Betting At The Centre The latest BetVictor campaign employs an adapted version of “My Favourite Things” from The Sound of Music to link betting with recognizable football scenarios. Barn Door Studios produced the advertisement using genuine sports footage, including actions like tackles, last-minute winning goals, accumulators, and the basic process of making a wager. As the lead brand of BVGroup, BetVictor has centered the campaign on a clear concept: sports become more enjoyable when betting introduces an additional element of engagement. The creative approach also integrates a message of responsible gambling, avoiding the stereotypical themes often found in betting advertisements. Richard Walters, Director of Brand and Creative at BetVictor, said:“The 'For All Your Favourite Things' campaign embodies the current identity of BetVictor – a high-quality, simple service that increases the excitement of watching sports. We are of the opinion that gambling, when approached correctly, is an uncomplicated enjoyment; something we are passionate about providing for our customers. Our goal was to honour the occasions that are most significant to sports enthusiasts.” Bountiful Cow is managing the media strategy, with Sky being a key partner. The agreement with Sky ensures BetVictor's presence during top-tier live sports events, on-demand entertainment, YouTube content, through Sky Advance targeting, and in digital ad spaces. Streaming services are also a major component of the strategy. BetVictor will utilise Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD) and Broadcast Video on Demand (BVOD) services on ITVX, Channel 4, Prime Video, and Netflix. Bountiful Cow developed target audiences of sports fans using its Connect planning tool, enabling the brand to connect with viewers during appropriate sports and entertainment events.Matt Lever, Founder at Barn Door Studios, said: “Anyone who likes placing a small bet on a Saturday accumulator understands that betting can be a straightforward pleasure. Our aim was to present sports and betting realistically, moving away from the common tropes of the industry and demonstrating that responsible betting with BetVictor can rank among our most preferred activities”. Adam Foley, CEO of Bountiful Cow, said: “This is the most extensive audio-visual campaign BetVictor has ever undertaken. The focus is entirely on the passion for sport and responsible gambling – and we are ensuring our presence at the most crucial times. We have focused on high-impact opportunities during live sports to build brand recognition and applied intelligent audience data targeting within streaming services to make it happen.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   A recent intervention by the National Monetary Council (CMN) has hindered the growth of prediction market platforms in Brazil. The body responsible for the nation's monetary policy and financial markets has ruled that derivatives must not be connected to events in sports, politics, or entertainment. Authorized by Banco Central do Brasil (BCB) President Gabriel Galípolo, Resolution No. 5,298 implements this ruling starting on 4 May. Financial institutions are prohibited from creating or providing contracts associated with political, electoral, social, cultural, or entertainment occurrences under this new policy. This move by the CMN supports the safeguards established in the Bets Law (Law No. 14.790/2023), the federal legislation for online betting and sports gambling that took effect on 1 January 2025. The CMN stated in its announcement that this ruling “comes amid the popularisation of prediction market platforms in Brazil, which operate without their own regulation, unlike the betting sector.” Focus is now shifting to the US prediction market operator Kalshi, which gained entry to the Brazilian market in January through a collaboration with XP Inc., marketing its platform as an investment vehicle for local users. During the launch, it was reported that the Secretariat of Prizes and Betting (SPA) had been approached by numerous licensed operators filing complaints, calling for regulatory action to prevent Kalshi from entering the market. This launch in Brazil represented Kalshi’s initial foray into international markets. The firm was co-established by Luana Lopes Lara (COO), who became the youngest self-made female billionaire in 2025. Kalshi recently closed a $1bn funding round in the US, bringing its total valuation to $22bn. As of April 2026, the company’s aggregate venture capital funding has surpassed $2.5bn. The sharp increase in Kalshi’s valuation has fueled comparisons with major US-listed gambling entities like Flutter Entertainment and DraftKings, as investors evaluate the potential of prediction markets relative to conventional sports betting. Even with this obstacle, a regulatory void persists for Kalshi and similar entities. The Brazilian Securities and Exchange Commission (CVM) is currently observing the industry, yet a specific regulatory schedule for prediction markets has not been defined. As the CMN clamps down on derivatives based on events, the opportunity for prediction markets to function within Brazil’s regulatory grey area seems to be narrowing. Kalshi’s arrival has highlighted a regulatory discrepancy, as officials work to bridge the divide between financial markets and the existing Bets Law Law framework, which President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva plans to overhaul in 2026. Last week, Lula announced to the national press that he intends to issue a ‘Presidential Decree‘ in May to establish a fresh online gambling system in Brazil, barring individuals receiving financial aid or those in debt from taking part. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Flutter Entertainment continues to actively engage with both the technology and charity sectors by revealing the winners of its 2025 Tech4Good Awards. Co-organised by the company’s startup-centric initiative, Alpha Hub, and its sports community investment programme, Beyond Sport, the event was hosted by the NYSE-listed gambling giant. With a market capitalization approaching £14 billion, it stands as one of the largest firms globally. First-place winner GoodGym and runner-up Civic Dollars will split a prize pool of £60,000. Additionally, both organisations will receive capacity-building support from Flutter’s Alpha Hub and Beyond Sport. Adam Burgess, Director of Programmes at Beyond Sport, remarked: “These awards enable organisations to leverage technology for scaling solutions that boost physical activity and generate enduring health and community benefits by merging financial grants with customised capability-building assistance.” Flutter’s long-standing startup involvement Flutter Entertainment has collaborated with startups for many years. The company established the Alpha Hub in 2018 to serve as a bridge connecting startups with its brands, including FanDuel in the US, and Sky Bet and Paddy Power in the UK and Ireland, alongside other markets. Since its inception, the company’s startup partnerships have spanned various fields, such as responsible gaming and product development tailored for female customers. Recently, horse racing has emerged as a major focus area. Through the Future of Racing Summit, Flutter and the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) have been identifying startups to collaborate on technology initiatives related to racing. Aligning with its positive action plan, Flutter intensified its hunt for startups to support its responsible gaming efforts in 2023. The Tech4Good award has been instrumental in this endeavour, just as it has been for the company’s newer sports-centric projects. Commenting on today’s award announcement, Rob Smith, Associate Director of Emerging Technologies and Insights at Flutter, stated: “With over 8,000 technologists group-wide, Flutter is fundamentally a technology-driven enterprise. Utilising our expertise to support the growth and scaling of these startups is a logical step for us.” Introducing the winners As previously noted, the top prize in this year’s Tech4Good Awards went to GoodGym. Operating since 2009, this London-based charity is active in 68 regions throughout the UK. The organisation links runners, walkers, and cyclists with community tasks, aiming to encourage daily exercise through community service. Flutter selected this charity because of its AI-driven tool, Coach, which is designed to facilitate the discovery of local activities and the creation of community bonds. Darren Moore, Tech Lead at GoodGym, stated: “This award is transformative; it allows us to invest in the technology and infrastructure necessary to connect thousands more individuals with their communities through physical movement.” Taking second place, Civic Dollars is a Belfast-based entity that created a geo-fencing community currency application to encourage outdoor activity. Users earn an in-app currency, known as Civic Dollars, for every 30 minutes spent in public spaces and parks. These earned dollars can be redeemed for health-oriented courses, including yoga, fitness, dance, and healthy cooking, or they can be donated to local community groups and charities. Dr Gráinne McAnee, Researcher at Civic Dollars, commented: “Accessibility and ease should be the hallmarks of being active and healthy, rather than it being expensive, exclusive, or restricted.” These awards are announced amidst a period of intense political scrutiny facing the UK gambling sector, thereby increasing the significance of community-focused programmes and initiatives for the industry. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   With competition for North American players reaching new heights, SBC Summit Americas is set to guide industry stakeholders through innovative strategies via its specialized North America Marketing & Affiliates track. Scheduled for Wednesday, June 10, the agenda features five panels of prominent marketing experts who will discuss refining acquisition, boosting conversion rates, and developing sustainable player lifecycles. Attendees will gain insights into leveraging AI for player engagement, navigating complex advertising rules, utilizing new channels like TikTok for acquisition, and creating brands that foster long-term retention. Rasmus Sojmark, CEO and founder of SBC, commented: “Affiliates are currently managing an unprecedented number of platforms and partnership structures. Between social media, AI, and martech, the industry is becoming more intricate. This track is designed to cut through that noise and provide clear strategies for driving growth.” The track begins with the panel "Affiliate Leaders Panel: The New Face of Affiliates: Branding, Voice, and Value," which explores the transition of affiliates into full-scale marketing brands. Industry leaders Brian Christopher (CEO, FlipTheSwitch.com), Stuart Simms (Group CEO, FairPlay Sports Media), Manuel Stan (CEO, Catena Media), and Zaire Williams (Founder, Exclusive) will discuss building audience loyalty through brand identity and personalized content. As mobile and social media strategies take center stage, the session "Beyond the Link: Redefining Affiliate Growth Through Emerging Channels" will look at how affiliates are becoming community-focused brands. Featuring James White (COO, Hottakes), Caleb Dykema (CEO, Vault Sports), Jon Bowden (CMO, Playstar), and Bryan Bennett (Principal, NorthCo Strategy), the panel will examine how TikTok, podcasts, and live streaming are changing acquisition and building trust. The "AI, Martech & the Player Journey: Redefining Engagement" session will highlight how machine learning is reshaping operator-player connections. Experts Vasilii Gamov (CEO, Peaky Ads), Jeremy Groves (COO, Evenbet), Dan Morrison (Director, Fast Track), and Adrianna Samuels (Consultant, STX) will explain how AI-driven tools and martech can optimize budgets and enhance player loyalty. Other sessions will focus on affiliate opportunities in emerging markets like Brazil, as well as how new martech is being used to sharpen player acquisition and engagement. SBC Summit Americas is held at the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale from June 9-11, welcoming 10,000 delegates from the North American and Latin American gaming sectors. Across five stages, the event will feature panels on leadership, sports betting, casino, payments, regulation, and player protection, featuring some of the most prominent figures in the industry. Register for SBC Summit Americas: Early Bird VIP Pass – Available for $400 (a $300 discount) for a limited period. This includes full access to the conference, exhibition floor, networking events, and the Food Festival. Expo+ Pass – Priced at $95, this provides access to all conference sessions and the show floor, excluding networking events and complimentary food. Expo Only Pass – A free option providing access to the show floor, ideal for those new to the industry or teams on a budget.Affiliates and operators may qualify for a complimentary VIP Pass, offering full access to all sessions, the exhibition, and networking functions. 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 acquisition of German brand Tipico Group by French industry leader Banijay Entertainment has now been formally finalized. The groundwork for the merger was laid in late 2023, when Banijay – a prominent entertainment and media conglomerate – publicly stated its plan to purchase a 65% share in Tipico from CVC Capital. Since French gaming brand Betclic was already part of Banijay’s portfolio, the company has now also gained control of Tipico and Admiral Austria, accessing a customer base of 6.5 million spread across Germany, France, Portugal, Austria, Poland, and Côte d’Ivoire. This establishes Banijay as a key European participant in the sports betting and online gaming sector. The company anticipates that its expanded Banijay Gaming unit will see double-digit revenue growth, with projected synergies of approximately €100 million (£86.7 million) over a medium-term timeframe. This transaction comes on the heels of a recent joint venture with infotainment company RedBird IMI, where the two entities took 50-50 ownership of All3Media, forming a leading global content production giant. On a pro forma basis for 2025, the combination of all assets would have generated revenues of €7.4 billion (£6.4 billion) for Banijay Group, adjusted EBITDA of €1.6 billion, and adjusted free cash flow of €1.2 billion. Internal restructuring includes the following:– Joachim Baca transitions from his previous role as Chief Executive Officer of Tipico Group to Vice-Chairman of the Banijay Gaming Board;– Mate Bacic shifts from CEO of Tipico Austria to CEO of Tipico Group;– Nicolas Béraud, founder and former CEO of Betclic, is named Chairman of the Banijay Gaming Board;– Julien Brun advances from Betclic’s Chief Operating Officer to Betclic’s CEO. Banijay Group holds 65% ownership of Banijay Gaming’s capital, together with CVC and the founders of Tipico and Betclic. This share is set to gradually rise to at least 72% over the coming years. Béraud commented: “Through this integration, Banijay Gaming emerges as a fully scaled European platform, boasting greater diversification and expanded access to large, fully regulated markets. “By combining our shared values, technologies, trading know-how, and customer platforms, we will speed up product innovation, improve our omnichannel services, and provide a more smooth and immersive experience for our players. “Our current focus is on unlocking the full potential of this integration to fuel growth across all our markets.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Carsten Koerl, Chief Executive Officer of sports technology leader Sportradar, has retaliated against claims put forward by two short-selling investment research firms. Two days prior, Muddy Waters and Callisto Research released accusations of unethical business practices by Sportradar. Both firms have also publicly admitted to shorting Sportradar’s stock. The firms claim Sportradar has been actively working with hundreds of unlawful gambling operators, even as it offers integrity oversight services to the legal sector and major sports bodies such as FIFA and UEFA. Following these allegations, Sportradar’s shares on the New York Nasdaq fell by 23%. Since both Muddy Waters and Callisto had shorted the stock—meaning they bet its value would decline—it’s probable the pair profited from this drop. Sportradar moved swiftly to address the claims, and its CEO has since intensified his pushback. “I take this as a personal attack considering my position and responsibility I have for investors, clients, partners and employees,” Koerl wrote on LinkedIn. He added that “it is alarming to see so many false, misleading and defamatory statements about myself and the business designed to manipulate our stock price for the benefit of short sellers”. Sportradar addresses the disruptive allegations Koerl has grounds for calling the short sellers’ claims a personal attack. The accusations against Sportradar included pointed claims about Koerl personally, like assertions that the German executive has connections to Russian oligarchs. “I believe these were thrown in to promote controversy and take advantage of the current news cycle,” Koerl said. The CEO further noted that he was once a shareholder in Russian betting company Liga Stavok, but he sold those shares “when it no longer felt right to invest in an entity seen as linked to a geopolitical conflict”. Established in 2001 with significant funding from Koerl, Sportradar spent the next 25 years becoming one of the globe’s largest players in the sports tech and data gathering industry. Sportradar went public on the New York Nasdaq in September 2021 through an initial public offering (IPO), which valued the company at $8 billion (£5.9 billion at 2026 exchange rates). Today, its market capitalization is approximately $4 billion, with its share price falling from around $17 per share on April 21 to $12.90 as of this writing. The company boasts a wide-ranging client list that includes the previously mentioned FIFA and UEFA, along with major leagues like the National Basketball Association (NBA), National Hockey League (NHL), Major League Baseball (MLB), NASCAR, and the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), to highlight a few key partners. A large portion of its revenue comes from collecting data from these leagues and sharing it with sports betting and media partners. Prominent bookmaker clients include FanDuel (owned by Flutter Entertainment), DraftKings, and William Hill (owned by Evoke). Last year, Sportradar greatly expanded its international sports data rights coverage by acquiring IMG Arena from Endeavor Group Holdings. It also plans to enter the iGaming and predictions sectors in 2026, and last month launched a dedicated division focused on iGaming. While integrity services are still an important part of Sportradar’s operations, they are far less prominent than its betting technology arm. In its FY25 financial results, the company reported total group revenue of nearly $1.3 billion, with $1 billion coming from its Betting Technology and Solutions segment, versus just $8.9 million from the Sports Performance and Integrity Services division. Even so, the accusations against the company and its founder/CEO could affect not only its integrity services but also its partnerships with major licensed operators—many of which have spoken out about the risks that illegal gambling poses to their businesses. “There are numerous allegations in these reports that are either entirely false, poorly researched, deliberately taken out of context, or, at best, repackaging the same tired stories we have heard for years,” Koerl asserted. Koerl further stated that Sportradar ‘will address the allegations in due course with the appropriate facts’, and concluded by saying: “I am confident that Sportradar will continue to lead the industry with the support of our partners and incredible global team.” 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 sportsbook brand 3et, owned by Eurasia Sports, has obtained a bookmaker's licence from the Irish Revenue Commissioners (IRC), gaining access to the market. With its parent company headquartered in Guernsey, the sportsbook has stated its strategy is to target bettors who prioritize value, moving away from the mainstream audience that is heavily focused on promotions. This approach is founded on providing more competitive odds, increased betting limits, and a reduced number of gamified elements. The style is comparable to an exchange or predictions platform, aiming to cultivate an experience for "professional bettors" that contrasts with the entertainment-centric model common among many large European operators. For its initial launch in Ireland, the focus will be on core markets with high liquidity, such as major US sports and elite football, featuring pricing centered on 1X2, Asian handicaps, and totals. “Irish bettors are knowledgeable about sports and value, and a significant number are searching for a sportsbook that delivers competitive odds and substantial limits, free from distractions,” commented Micheál Deasy, Marketing Manager at 3et. “This is the area where we feel 3et differentiates itself.” Opportunity in a tough regulatory environment? While European regulations become stricter, smaller operators employing sharp pricing strategies are pursuing licences in markets that are newly structured or in transition, particularly the UK and Ireland. This trend is illustrated by Bet St. George's entry into the UK, while Fitzwilliam Sports recently entered the online sports betting arena in both the UK and Ireland via a partnership with EveryMatrix. Additionally, Welsh operator DragonBet received a Remote Bookmaker’s Licence to extend its operations into Ireland this past January. The current Irish system, managed by the Revenue Commissioners under older laws, is being phased out in favor of a new framework supervised by the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Ireland (GRAI), which was created by the Gambling Regulation Act 2024. Current licences will stay effective throughout this transition period, offering a chance for new market entrants to build a presence before the new system is fully implemented. These new companies might still allocate funds for international growth, even in the face of widespread tax increases. The rise of these smaller operators counters predictions that European markets might undergo significant ownership and structural changes as larger corporations attempt to consolidate market share. Such theories have been supported by developments like Banijay's purchase of Tipico, Bally's Intralot's proposed offer for evoke, and discussions of merger and acquisition activity involving Entain, the owner of Ladbrokes Coral. Another potential shift is Ireland's growing importance as a betting market. As UK taxes are set to rise significantly starting in April 2026, Ireland's relatively lower-tax environment could become more appealing to companies focused on Western Europe, acting as a counterbalance to the high-tax UK sector. 3et’s future moves Eurasia Sports' 3et has indicated intentions for a wider, multi-market expansion in 2027, with its entry into Ireland serving as a real-world trial for its competitive-odds, high-limit strategy within a fully regulated and competitive European setting. The brand is not a recent creation. 3et was originally introduced in 2015 as an exclusive, invitation-only platform for corporate clients and betting agents, only becoming available to the general public in 2023. It holds licences from the Alderney Gambling Control Commission, based in its home jurisdiction of Guernsey. It represents another brand for the industry to monitor in Europe, as the sector navigates a flood of regulatory updates and shifting consumer demands. 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) -   Svenska Spel experienced a robust trading quarter, with its online division's expansion and the steady performance of its Lotto and Oddset brands contributing to a 2% rise in the Swedish group's overall net gaming revenue (NGR). In its interim results for January–March 2026, Svenska Spel reported that NGR reached SEK 1.88bn (£150.4m) for the quarter, an increase of SEK 30m compared to the same period last year. Svenska Spel's total operating profit for Q1 2026 stood at SEK 659m, marking an increase of SEK 25m, approximately 4%. Sports and casino drive Q1 growth The operator saw its most significant growth in the Sports and Casino segments, with NGR for these divisions up by 3%. While the Oddset brand was the primary driver of this growth, Svenska Spel also highlighted the positive impact of the Winter Olympics on betting volume, noting increased customer activity and higher average bets per customer. Anna Johnson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Svenska Spel, commented: “We have high ambitions for 2026, and one of our priorities is sustainable growth with a focus on our strong products. It is therefore positive that the year begins with growth in line with the market, with the product brands as the driving force.” Sports betting was not the only area to show growth during the quarter. Svenska Spel also reported an increase in both activity and player volume for its casino and lottery games division. This translated to a 2% increase in NGR for the Luck Division, indicating a favorable outcome for Svenska Spel in Q1. The boost in performance was also evident across Svenska Spel's Lotto brand. However, this was somewhat tempered by jackpot levels not reaching the same heights as the previous year. During the trading quarter, operating margins also improved, rising from 34% to 35%. It is worth noting that achieving organic growth in mature, highly regulated markets like Sweden presents a considerable challenge. Svenska Spel has managed to achieve this modest growth by maintaining relatively flat overall costs as its NGR continues to increase. This growth is a notable achievement for a Swedish company in the gambling industry, especially when contrasted with revenue declines reported by several other Stockholm-listed companies, including Betsson, Evolution, and Kambi, in their recent financial results. As the Swedish operator continues to channel its revenue through its digital channels, which now represent 67% of total revenue, it is clear that Svenska Spel has moved beyond the initial heavy investment phase of its digital transformation and is now focused on optimizing growth. Land-based operations face challenges Conversely, Svenska Spel's land-based operations did not experience the same positive trends as its online counterparts, with its Vegas division facing a significant decline in Q1 2026. With a 17% decrease in NGR compared to the previous year, Svenska Spel has already implemented cost-saving measures to counteract the trend of players increasingly opting for online gaming. While the initial NGR declines may raise concerns, they are not entirely unexpected. Svenska Spel has been managing the reduction of its physical presence in Sweden for some time, as evidenced by the closure of its Casino Cosmopol properties. Following the closure of its final property in April 2025, Svenska Spel stated: “Casino Cosmopol has had declining profitability and visitor numbers for several years, as more and more people choose to play casino online. To limit losses, the casino in Sundsvall was closed in 2020, in February 2024 the casinos in Gothenburg and Malmö were closed and now Stockholm has also closed.” It is anticipated that Svenska Spel will continue its strategic shift away from retail and towards online operations, prioritizing "profitable business partners" in 2026 and beyond. Channelisation remains a key concern Eight years after Sweden introduced gambling regulations, the market continues to grapple with the persistent presence of unlicensed operators, particularly in the online casino sector. In its interim report, Svenska Spel highlighted that channelisation remains a "central issue" for the market's development, especially in a context of "tough competition" within the regulated market. With 134,500 players registered via Spelpaus, a "clear increase" from the previous year, the Swedish operator indicated that responsible gambling will continue to be a significant priority for the broader industry. In addition to responsible gambling, developments in Finland have also been identified as a potential influence on the Swedish market's trajectory. The interim report noted: “In Finland, the licensing process has now begun ahead of the upcoming reregulation of the gambling market, and applications for licenses under the new Gambling Act could be submitted from March 2026. This marks a clear step from political direction to actual market opening and is expected to gradually affect competition in the Nordic countries in the coming years. Overall, developments indicate that the gaming industry will increasingly be characterised by the ability to put decisions into practice, clearer regulation and intensified competition in already mature markets.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Nicholas Emiliou, a Cypriot diplomat serving as Advocate General (AG) of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU), has issued what amounts to another EU legal position opposing Malta’s Bill 55. Delivering his second opinion on a Bill 55-related case in the span of two months, Emiliou primarily referenced a request from an Austrian court for a preliminary ruling to assess if the provision of the Maltese Gambling Act known as Bill 55 aligns with EU law. In response to this submission, Emiliou ruled that the Austrian court’s request is inadmissible. The court’s request is tied to one of multiple ongoing legal disputes across Austrian and German courts, which are examining restitution claims from players who lost money to Malta-based, Maltese-licensed operators that either lacked licences in Austria or Germany at the time of the transactions, or still do not hold valid licences in those countries. Even so, Emiliou did not hold back in his criticism of Bill 55, the common name for Article 56A of Malta’s Gambling Act. Passed into law in 2023, Bill 55 is largely designed to shield betting and gaming firms holding Maltese licences from court judgments issued outside of Malta. Emiliou declared that national measures like Bill 55 are “manifestly incompatible with the rules governing the recognition and enforcement of judgments” from Brussels. He added that rulings concerning player restrictions against Maltese online gambling operators, issued by any EU member state, must be “recognised and enforced in all other member states, including Malta”. Opinions from ECJ Advocates General are not legally binding, and are only intended to provide guidance for ongoing legal debates and proceedings. Even so, they can carry significant weight independently, particularly given the high number of ongoing legal disputes between Maltese courts and those of other EU member states at present. Thomas Bugeja, Partner at Fenech & Fenech Advocates, a Valetta-headquartered law firm, wrote on LinkedIn that “these observations will no doubt form part of the wider legal debate around Article 56A”. Malta left on the defensive When considering the wider context, the outlook is unfavorable for Malta’s protectionist policies for its gambling market, which was dealt a major blow just last week. On 16 April, a preliminary ECJ ruling – which, unlike an AG opinion, is legally binding – stated that EU law does not bar member states from banning online gambling services operated by entities based in other member states. This ruling undermined the argument put forward by Maltese legal authorities that the operations of Malta Gambling Authority (MGA) licence-holding companies in other EU nations were protected under the EU’s freedom of trade standards. Reinforcing this point in his statement yesterday, AG Emiliou asserted that “other member states are entitled to apply their respective gambling laws to operators licensed in Malta”. He added that “situations are bound to arise in which the services provided by a gaming operator holding a Maltese licence are unlawful in a Member State while being lawful under Maltese law”. Commenting on LinkedIn, Dr. Jeanella Grech, a Lawyer Linguist at the CJEU, summarised Emiliou’s opinion as being “that there is no mutual recognition of gaming licenses in EU law and, hence, a Maltese gaming license is in principle valid only in Malta”. Malta’s iGaming sector is of enormous economic importance to the Mediterranean island nation. The online gaming industry, regulated by the MGA, makes up roughly one-tenth of the country’s annual GDP. Two core factors have underpinned the sector’s success: the country’s 5% tax rate for iGaming firms, and the long-held belief that an MGA licence and the regulatory standards it represents allow holders to operate internationally, both within the EU and in other global markets. Legal challenges from Austria and Germany, combined with recent CJEU rulings and AG opinions, are calling this long-held belief into question, and could ultimately threaten Malta’s status as one of the world’s leading iGaming hubs. 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) -   Sports sponsorship activity in the global betting and gaming industry never stops. Just this week alone, several major new deals have been announced that will reach millions of sports fans across the world. This edition of Sponsor Spotlight takes a closer look at Polymarket’s latest breakthrough in Europe, heads to the races with Betway and CopyBet, follows SOFTSWISS as it speeds ahead, and covers the game-changing home run partnership from Caesars. S.S. Lazio teams up with Polymarket Following Polymarket’s recent partnership with the North American business arm of LALIGA, we predicted that the path to Europe for prediction market platforms could be more open than it initially looked. This latest deal has now confirmed that prediction. Italian football giant S.S. Lazio will feature the Polymarket logo on the front of its match kits, and the arrangement will run for the next two years. This move highlights the extremely complex regulatory landscape of the prediction market sector. Italy bans gambling sponsorship in sports, so Polymarket has been named the club’s official fan intelligence and digital insight partner – a strategy that could prove very valuable for its future expansion across Europe. Betway steps into mainline jockey role UK horse racing has seen better days. Recent years have been marked by fluctuating audience numbers, ongoing campaigns against tax increases, and multiple operators pulling their sponsorship support. However, a revival may now be on the horizon, with Betway as the latest operator stepping in to support the sport. The online sportsbook just announced it will sponsor 16 total races across Newmarket, Haydock Park and Market Rasen. Even more importantly, the Super Group-owned brand will serve as the main partner of The Jockey Club for the full 2026 racing season. Could this be a sign that the tide is turning for the better for UK horse racing? CopyBet gallops into new racetrack partnership Offering another much-needed lifeline to horse racing, CopyBet has joined the space as the official partner of Worcester Racecourse for this year’s National Hunt summer season. Already a prominent supporter of this beloved British sport, this new partnership builds on CopyBet’s existing commercial footprint, which already includes racing sponsorship deals across Carlisle, Exeter, Haydock, Huntington, and Kempton. Judging by the company’s growing racing sponsorship portfolio, it is safe to say CopyBet is here to stay, at least for now. Are bookmakers already returning to racing? Betway and CopyBet pen fresh sponsorships SOFTSWISS keeps renowned driver at the wheel Online gaming technology firm SOFTSWISS has announced the extension of its contract with Brazilian F1 legend Rubens Barrichello, who will continue serving as the company’s Non-Executive Director for Latin America for a third consecutive year. A multiple Grand Prix winner, Barrichello is no stranger to high speeds and sharp turns – metaphors that fit perfectly with the fast-paced iGaming industry, both when it comes to innovation and regulatory change. This comparison rings especially true for Barrichello’s home market of Brazil, where the regulatory landscape for the gambling sector seems to shift dramatically every few days. SOFTSWISS gears up for another year with F1 legend Caesars hits home run with MLB Caesars Entertainment has secured the highly-coveted imagery rights for the entire roster of Major League Baseball (MLB) players, in a deal brokered through the commercial arm of MLB Players Inc. As a result, both Caesars Sportsbook and the US branch of William Hill are now the official sportsbook partners of MLB Players across all their online and retail operations. This means both platforms can integrate MLB player imagery into their gaming offerings for the entirety of the 2026 MLB season, allowing them to connect with a domestic US MLB fanbase that totals more than 170 million people. MLBPA signs new licensing deal with Caesars Entertainment Spotlight rankings: Which deals stand out? Betway/The Jockey ClubFor this edition’s rankings, we’ve ordered our list based on broader political and regulatory context. Under this framework, the policy debates surrounding UK horse racing are not only closest to home for the SBC News team, but have also been the most dynamic in recent times.That’s why we’ve placed our horse racing deals at the top of our selection today, leading with Betway – an order that holds no particular significance outside of alphabetical sorting. CopyBet/Worcester RacecourseAs promised, CopyBet comes next on our list. As we noted earlier, the regulatory landscape for UK horse racing has seen its fair share of ups and downs over the past few months, a reality regular SBC News readers are already very familiar with. S.S. Lazio/PolymarketContinuing the theme of regulatory tension, most of Europe has taken a hostile stance against prediction markets and what they claim to represent. Regulators argue that these platforms count as gambling, while platforms like Polymarket claim they are a completely separate service – as seen in its role as digital insight partner for S.S. Lazio.Will challenging Europe’s status quo in this direct way prove a successful strategy to change long-held perceptions of prediction markets? Only time will tell, but the fact remains: cracks in existing barriers have already started to show. SOFTSWISS/Rubens BarrichelloAs the next entry in our selection, this deal is no less tied up in shifting political and regulatory change than any other on our list. Barrichello may have swapped the steering wheel of an F1 car for a tablet, but he still navigates constant change much like he did on the track, as he works to stay up to date on the new gambling policies coming out of Brazil’s Parliament on a daily basis. Caesars/MLBLast but not least on our list is the partnership between Caesars and MLB. While it is less tied up in active political and regulatory debate, this partnership still earned its spot on our list thanks to the outsized importance MLB holds for the US sports 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) -   Jake Pollard Jake Pollard reports that the UK giant’s entry is poised to stimulate marketing and heighten competition within the mature French sector… just in time for the World Cup. Bet365 is set to launch in France imminently, following the receipt of its online sports betting license. The approval was granted after a scheduled session by the Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ) last Thursday, with the official announcement following yesterday morning. The news of Bet365’s expansion into France was first reported by SBC-Gaming&Co last October, with the UK operator filing its license application through its subsidiary, Hillside (New Media Malta) Plc, in January. This development allows Bet365 to begin marketing to French consumers ahead of the World Cup, meeting the internal deadline the company had set for its 2026 launch. Its entry represents a significant shift for the French online sports betting (OSB) industry, as it marks the first time in years that a new operator with the financial resources and brand equity to challenge established leaders like Betclic, Winamax, and Unibet has entered the market. Furthermore, with PMU introducing its new PMU Play app—which emphasizes converting horse racing bettors into sports punters—competition in this sector is expected to intensify. Although OSB is not PMU’s primary focus, the company informed G&Co that it intends to make online poker and sports betting central components of its digital strategy. Previously, Bet365 had opted against entering the French market. However, as the group has grown across Europe, Australia, and more recently the US, France has increasingly become a strategic priority. As SBC-G&Co noted in October, the firm’s “financial firepower provides it with the luxury of time to promote its offerings and absorb initial losses, a strategy it successfully employed during its expansion into Australia and the US, where it is now live in 14 states.” France refreshes Euro ambitions Corporately, a French launch extends Bet365’s growth trajectory and increases its footprint in another major regulated market, potentially setting the stage for a future sale. Bet365 reported a 9% year-on-year revenue increase to £4bn for the 12 months ending March 2025, bolstered by a 5% rise in sports betting and a 25% surge in online casino revenue. Nevertheless, pre-tax profits fell by 41% to £349m for the 2024/25 period, while operating profits dropped 40% to £218m, driven by costs rising from £687m to £896.5m due to expansion into new regulated territories. The company’s arrival is expected to drive up media inventory costs. With affiliates prepared to launch promotional campaigns, a surge in marketing activity is anticipated in the coming weeks. As a globally recognized betting brand, Bet365 already enjoys strong awareness among French bettors despite its previous absence. Additionally, its global UEFA Champions League sponsorship runs through 2027; the new license will allow the brand to advertise directly in French stadiums during UCL matches, replacing the "Follow Scores" branding used previously. France remains a mature, highly regulated, and heavily taxed market, where OSB serves as the primary growth driver in the absence of regulated online casino gaming. Following the announcement, industry insiders told SBC-G&Co that while they are not thrilled about the arrival of such a formidable competitor, they acknowledge that increased competition typically drives operational improvements and better product development. Natives ready to battle Nicolas Béraud – Betclic At the time, Nicolas Béraud, founder and president of Betclic (Banijay Group), told Les Echos that Bet365 possesses a “powerful brand” capable of impacting all operators. However, he noted that its “traditional English model, which focuses on technical bets favored by sophisticated players,” differs from Betclic’s approach, which he believes is “better suited to the French market.” Béraud also pointed out that while one of Bet365’s core strengths is its vast array of betting options, the strictly “regulated and limited offer” in France will restrict its ability to differentiate itself. He added that the country’s 85% Return to Player (RTP) requirement prevents the operator from utilizing its typical “best price,” low-margin model. Nevertheless, Béraud conceded that if the UK firm invests “millions of euros in marketing—which they have the resources to do—it will inevitably impact existing legal French operators.” 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) -   Spanish law enforcement confiscated cryptocurrency cold storage devices as part of a piracy probe involving what officials described as the nation's most significant unauthorized Spanish-language manga website. Key Details Law enforcement recovered two cold wallets containing approximately €400,000.** A trio of individuals was taken into custody in Almería.** Officials have not disclosed if they possess the means to unlock the assets.** Cryptocurrency Wallets Discovered Concealed in Wall Thermometer Authorities in Spain apprehended three individuals in Almería following a search of a suspected illicit manga distribution network that had been active since 2014. According to the Interior Ministry, the website provided complimentary access to pirated manga content, primarily funding its operations through ad revenue. Officials estimate the platform generated over €4 million throughout its ten-year existence. In the course of the operation, officers discovered two crypto cold wallets concealed within a wall-mounted thermometer. Police reported that the hardware contained roughly €400,000, equivalent to about $467,000.The incident highlights a recurring challenge for law enforcement: the physical possession of a hardware wallet does not guarantee access to the digital assets stored within. Authorities have not confirmed whether they have obtained the necessary recovery seeds, PINs, or security credentials to manage the funds. The inquiry was launched in June 2025 following reports from copyright holders. This seizure underscores the increasing prevalence of cryptocurrency storage hardware in criminal investigations extending well beyond financial fraud, reaching into realms like digital piracy and intellectual property enforcement. 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) -   Zondacrypto is under scrutiny following comments from CEO Przemysław Kral that the exchange is unable to access a Bitcoin wallet containing 4,503 BTC—currently valued at over $350 million. Good to Know Per Przemysław Kral, the wallet contains 4,503 BTC. Kral states that Zondacrypto purchased the wallet from Sylwester Suszek, founder of BitBay. Suszek vanished in March 2022 prior to the handover of the private keys. Zondacrypto Faces Questions Over Lack of Wallet Access Zondacrypto CEO Przemysław Kral has refuted allegations of fund misappropriation by releasing the Bitcoin wallet address at the heart of the controversy. He noted that the exchange owns the 4,503 BTC wallet but cannot access the funds because the private keys were never provided. Kral asserts that Zondacrypto acquired the wallet from Sylwester Suszek, BitBay’s founder, before Suszek disappeared in March 2022. He added that while documentation verifies ownership, access depends on keys that never arrived. “When Sylwester is supposed to hand over the private keys to that address, according to these documents, he disappears instead,” Kral said.He further denied having any involvement in Suszek’s disappearance. “To all those who claim I had anything to do with Sylwester’s disappearance: this is the key argument that I care most about him being found. He may be watching this—I appeal to him to fulfill the agreement,” he declared. The revelation eroded trust in Zondacrypto. Estimates indicate that withdrawals depleted 99% of the exchange’s Bitcoin reserves following Kral’s discussion of the wallet issue. He warned that no financial institution could withstand such a massive outflow. Reportedly, the wallet received most of its funds in 2016 and has had no significant activity for over a decade. Meanwhile, Suszek’s disappearance remains unsolved. One individual faces kidnapping charges linked to the case, but the former BitBay founder has not been located. 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 legal challenge in South Carolina is scrutinizing Dave & Buster’s prize-redemption system, as a newly established organization contends that the arcade's ticket-based rewards constitute unlawful gambling. Key Details The litigation was initiated by SC Citizens For Equal Enforcement of Gambling Laws. The suit alleges that because prizes possess resale value, the business model violates South Carolina gambling statutes. The organization is pursuing treble damages for patrons who lost $50 or more during a single visit. South Carolina Legal Action Challenges Arcade Prize Systems Dave & Buster’s is the subject of a South Carolina lawsuit concerning its primary arcade operations, where patrons purchase Power Card credits to play games, earn tickets, and exchange them for prizes. The legal complaint asserts that this process qualifies as illegal gambling when the prizes offered include high-value electronics. The group, SC Citizens For Equal Enforcement of Gambling Laws, maintains that South Carolina law is not primarily concerned with the balance of skill versus luck. The lawsuit states: “whether an activity is gaming/gambling is not dependent upon the relative roles of chance and skill, but whether there is money or something of value wagered on the game’s outcome.”The filing further notes: “Defendant’s redemption gaming machines are precisely the type of machines prohibited by South Carolina law,” the lawsuit claims. “Patrons purchase Power Card gaming credits at kiosks for the express purpose of trying to “win” more — in the form of tickets redeemable for valuable prizes — whether by skill or chance.” The legal action also highlights the company's financial structure, alleging that Dave & Buster’s retains approximately 92 cents of every dollar spent, with only about 8% returned to customers in value. The plaintiffs are seeking triple damages for any individual losses of $50 or more per visit. Furthermore, the suit invokes South Carolina statutes linked to the historical Statute of Anne, which permits the recovery of gambling losses and allows third parties to initiate litigation if the aggrieved individual fails to do so within a three-month window.Dave & Buster’s has previously experimented with different gaming formats. In 2024, the company collaborated with Lucra to introduce "Playce It," a feature allowing peer-to-peer wagering on arcade games. The company marketed the feature by stating: “How much money is on the line? That’s up to you. Just create or accept a matchup with another player and get ready for some head-to-head action.” While Playce It is available in states like Texas, Georgia, Missouri, and California, it is not offered in South Carolina, where the company relies on skill-based play rather than the peer-to-peer betting model. The plaintiffs argue that there is a lack of consistent enforcement. In a statement provided to local media, the group remarked: “SLED, and other law enforcement agencies, have seized video games, revoked beer and wine licenses, and have threatened criminal cases against local businesses for operating video games like the ones at the Dave & Buster’s locations in South Carolina … Through this lawsuit, SC Citizens for Equal Enforcement of Gambling Laws LLC hopes to bring clarity and equality to the video game entertainment industry in South Carolina.” South Carolina has a history of legal battles regarding gambling-style equipment. In 2013, the state prohibited video gambling in restaurants and bars following prolonged disputes over such machines in local establishments. 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.