Category: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) - The company is calling upon operators, suppliers, affiliates, and other igaming professionals to offer their views on market evolution, player habits, technological advancements, and regulatory changes. Press release.- SOFTSWISS has initiated a survey aimed at gathering industry intelligence for its upcoming 2027 igaming Trends Report. Operators, suppliers, affiliates, and various igaming practitioners are encouraged to participate. Participants have the opportunity to voice their opinions regarding market shifts, player conduct, tech, and regulations. These contributions will help SOFTSWISS pinpoint the major trends set to shape the sector in 2027. Those who provide the most valuable insights may be asked to participate in detailed interviews and will be highlighted in the final report scheduled for release later this year. The annual trends reports by SOFTSWISS rank among the sector's most popular publications. The prior version, the 2026 igaming Trends Report, garnered over 10,000 downloads from industry professionals. This report was compiled using data from a survey of more than 350 igaming experts, alongside independent analysis from a research firm and internal knowledge from 30 SOFTSWISS specialists. Valentina Bagniya, CMO at SOFTSWISS, stated: “The igaming sector evolves rapidly, and those working within it daily understand it best. This report has consistently relied on genuine expertise rather than guesses, which is why it holds such value for the industry. If you have a view on the market's future direction, here is your opportunity to document it and share it with thousands of professionals worldwide. The more diverse opinions we incorporate, the more precise and beneficial the final report will be for all its readers.” Completing the survey requires just a few minutes and is accessible to industry professionals across various fields such as product, technology, marketing, compliance, and investment. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Novibet has named Yiannis Stravroulas as its new Chief Technology Officer, tasking him with a primary focus on integrating AI and other modern technologies. The Greek-headquartered operator is a dominant force in its domestic market and Cyprus, while maintaining a significant international presence across eight additional nations. Since the launch of Brazil's regulated online betting and iGaming sector on January 1, 2025, Novibet has been operational there, alongside its activities in Mexico, Ecuador, Chile, Canada, Finland, and Ireland. In an official announcement regarding the appointment, the company highlighted that the new CTO will be instrumental in achieving its objective of becoming a ‘global GameTech company’. Stravroulas, who previously served as Chief Operations Officer at the Greek IT organization Cognity, is responsible for strengthening Novibet’s technical infrastructure to support its growth, product development, and user experience. “Joining Novibet represents a significant move beyond my comfort zone,” Stavroulas shared via LinkedIn. “I am entering this role backed by my experience and thrilled by the prospect of evolving alongside a company that is growing at roughly 30% annually and expanding rapidly across 10 countries on three continents!” “In this environment, technology is not merely a support tool but a fundamental pillar of the business—the engine driving the entire organization forward.” Is technology the key to market leadership? The emphasis on technology may become increasingly vital for Novibet as competition intensifies in its active regions, both from other licensed entities and the unregulated sector. For instance, Brazil currently hosts more than 79 operators licensed by the Ministry of Finance’s Secretary of Prizes and Bets (SPA). The nation is also continuing its long-standing struggle against an established black market. Meanwhile, in Finland, Novibet is preparing for the transition to a multi-license system as the government dismantles the Veikkaus Oy monopoly. This shift is expected to trigger a competitive scramble for market dominance. The high level of competition in these territories underscores the necessity for technological excellence and operational efficiency, which are critical for firms like Novibet. Stravroulas’ arrival follows the recent cancellation of a deal that would have seen Allwyn acquire a majority stake in Novibet, a move blocked by the Hellenic Competition Commission (HCC). Following the termination of the Allwyn agreement, Novibet confirmed its commitment to its strategic roadmap, emphasizing that it will continue to utilize its proprietary platform and advanced technology as primary competitive assets. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Pollard Banknote has announced that Rob Rose will be retiring from his position as executive vice president, finance and CFO at the conclusion of the year. Canada.- Pollard Banknote Limited has confirmed that Rob Rose will step down as executive vice president, finance and chief financial officer on December 31, 2026. The search for his replacement is currently underway. Rose has been part of the company’s executive leadership for thirty-one years. He has directed major financial milestones, including the 2005 IPO, the transition from a private family-owned business to a public corporation, and various debt financing initiatives. Co-CEO John Pollard stated: “Rob has been a key figure in Pollard Banknote’s evolution from a small private printing firm with $40m in revenue and three Canadian locations to a publicly traded international leader. We now provide a comprehensive suite of printed and digital products to the lottery and charitable gaming sectors, with $600m in revenue and 20 sites across North America and Europe. “With Rob’s leadership, the company achieved a successful IPO, shifted from an income trust to a corporate share structure, secured multiple financings to support our expansion, and completed over a dozen acquisitions. We wish to congratulate and thank Rob on behalf of the board of directors, our employees, and the entire company for his outstanding contributions.” Rose added: “It has been a distinct honor to work with the incredible people throughout the Pollard group. I am very thankful for the passion and professionalism of our teams and am happy to assist with a smooth transition over the next few months. I look forward to watching the company pursue its strategic goals under new financial leadership and will continue to support the team as the business grows and succeeds.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Entain faced further stock market woes today following confirmation that a major shareholder, Eminence Capital, is closing after 27 years. Around 12:20 GMT, shares in the LSE-listed company fell 7.04% to 557.4p, as investors reacted to the potential share overhang from the hedge fund's impending exit. Founded by Ricky Sandler, Eminence is believed to own approximately 6.5% of Entain, ranking as its third-largest investor after Capital Group and Dodge & Cox. The worry for the market is that Eminence will need to sell its holdings as it liquidates and returns money to clients, creating the risk of ongoing selling pressure on Entain's stock in the short term. In a client letter, Sandler confirmed the shutdown of the New York fund he started in the late 1990s, pointing to poor performance, higher costs, and tougher market dynamics. The firm, which manages about $6bn (£4.42m), plans to return at least 75% of investor capital by mid-to-late June as part of a structured closure. “In recent years, applying our disciplined bottom-up investment approach to fast-changing markets and an evolving structure has grown increasingly hard,” Sandler wrote in a letter obtained by Bloomberg. “We feel we have not met our own lofty standards or your expectations in recent times. “I have immense pride in the Eminence team, the business and culture we created, and the quality of our investors. “The firm has been much more than just a career to me. It has been a central part of my life.” Ricky Sandler. Credit: Eminence Capital Eminence has struggled with performance for an extended period, even though its disclosed portfolio contained notable names like Amazon and Salesforce, which comprised a significant 10% portion. Entain may not be the only casualty of Eminence’s shutdown Reports indicate the fund also has a minor stake in Flutter Entertainment and roughly 8.43 million shares, worth about $290m, in another prominent US gambling firm, DraftKings. Eminence's closure has not negatively affected Flutter's share price in London, where its stock is up 1.5% today to 8,244p. However, observers are cautious about the potential impact on DraftKings, considering Entain's sharp decline. DraftKings, traded on the NYSE at $23.18 per share, has received a ‘Strong Sell’ rating from one analyst. Others remain hopeful that excitement around prediction markets will aid the company following its launch of DraftKings Predictions. It became the second major US betting operator to introduce a predictions platform, after Fanatics, and pipped its key rival FanDuel – owned by Flutter – to the post. Beyond prediction markets, all three companies have endured a difficult year on the markets. Entain's shares have fallen over 10% in London in the past 12 months, while Flutter is down more than 50% on the NYSE and DraftKings has declined 30% on the NASDAQ Global Select Market (New York). Entain also confronts a tougher operating environment in its home UK market, with rising taxes and a growing black market worrying both the regulated sector and the government. A voluntary ban on front-of-shirt sponsorships in the English Premier League starts next year. CEO Stella David has advocated for a full sponsorship ban on unlicensed operators, whose branding is prevalent on shirts and in stadiums. A persistent downturn in UK and Irish retail has also hurt the company, prompting plans to close a significant number of its Irish Ladbrokes shops to reduce costs. Nevertheless, its first-quarter revenue rose 3%, with online revenue in the UK and Ireland exceeding forecasts with 13% growth. This offers a glimmer of hope for the FTSE 100 member, which has a market capitalisation of approximately £3.6bn. Yet the shutdown of Eminence has inflicted another setback on Entain, and the market will watch closely for any effect on DraftKings during a period when gambling firms worldwide have been under pressure. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Holland Casino and VBET have modified their product offerings following concerns raised by the Dutch Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) regarding football bets available on their platforms. The KSA announced today that it had approached Holland Casino and VBET concerning the availability of "own goals" as a betting market on both operators' websites. The KSA, along with several other national gambling regulators, views betting on the number of own goals in a football match as a threat to sports integrity. In its official guidance on sports integrity, the KSA categorizes bets on own goals alongside events such as time penalties, Formula One car retirements, race red flags, and player injuries as examples of "negative or easily manipulated events." SBC News has contacted Holland Casino and VBET for comment. However, the KSA has confirmed that both companies have since removed the option to bet on own goals from their respective sportsbook platforms. “The KSA addressed both providers on this matter,” the regulator’s statement read. “Subsequently, both Holland Casino Online and VBET adjusted their offerings and removed own-goal bets. “They have also implemented additional control measures to prevent future occurrences. As a result, the KSA considers this matter sufficiently resolved for the time being.” The KSA has valid reasons to carefully consider which types of bets should be permitted, with a focus on safeguarding sports integrity and preventing match manipulation. According to quarterly and annual reports from the International Betting Integrity Association (IBIA), football consistently ranks as one of the two sports most vulnerable to match manipulation attempts and suspicious betting, alongside tennis. The KSA's action against these betting options also occurs amidst ongoing political scrutiny of the Dutch online gaming market. This market has seen substantial growth since its re-regulation under the KOA Act in October 2024, although the regulator itself notes a stagnation in its development. Political concerns regarding betting, its societal impact, and its visibility led to significant advertising restrictions being introduced in 2024, including a ban on sports sponsorship. In March of this year, opposition parties escalated these concerns by calling for a complete prohibition on gambling advertising. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The deal is anticipated to finalize on or about April 30. US.- VICI Properties has revealed that all necessary gaming regulatory and shareholder approvals have been secured for its previously announced $1.16 billion acquisition of the land, real estate, and improvements of seven casino properties from olden Entertainment. The transaction is set to close around April 30pending the satisfaction of remaining customary closing conditions. p> VICI notedoted that upon the deal’s closure, it will enter into a triple-net master lease with a newly formed entity owned by Blake L. Sartartini—chairman and CEO of Golden Entertainment—which entity will have acquired Golden’s operating business.> Golden Entertainment shareholders will receive approximately 24.3 million newly issued VICI shares in exchange for their outstanding Golden stockock. VICI will assume and immediately retire Golden Entertainment’s $426 million in outstanding debt using a combination of cash on hand and net proceeds from the settlement of existing forward sale agreements. The company further stated that the Golden Master Lease will feature an initial annual rent of $87.0 million, an initial term of 30 years, and four 5-year tenant renewal options. In March, VICI Properties announced a CAD$200.6 million ($144.4 million) acquisition of the real estate assets of Deerfoot Inn & Casino, Great Northern Casino, and two limited-service hotels adjacent to the Great Northern Casino in Alberta, Canada. This deal is tied to Pure Casino Entertainment Partnership’s pending take-private acquisition of Gamehost. 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 company will present its newest innovations at G2E Asia 2026, which will take place at The Venetian Macao from May 12 to 14. Press release.- TCSJOHNHUXLEY is poised to unveil a significant advancement in live gaming at G2E Asia 2026, scheduled to be held at The Venetian Macao from May 12 to 14, 2026. Visitors to Booth B1338 will have the opportunity to see a range of intelligent software and sophisticated display technologies designed to maximize table profitability across casino floors. While continuing to emphasize its renowned core product offerings, this year's exhibition will highlight how data-driven insights and integrated smart hardware can enhance operational performance for contemporary operators. Building on over five decades of manufacturing expertise, TCSJOHNHUXLEY remains dedicated to delivering innovations that extend beyond conventional equipment, providing a comprehensive, long-term partnership for casinos globally. A key feature of the event will be the launch of T-Connect 2, the latest iteration of the company’s all-encompassing table management system. This advanced software platform incorporates smart sensors to deliver real-time data, enabling operators to optimize their gaming floors through a flexible and modular approach to game management. T-Connect 2 functions as the central control for the connected pit, improving security and streamlining operations for numerous casinos throughout Asia. The company will also showcase its latest display innovations, including the Dynamic Display System (DDS) and the adaptable Ora Winning Number Display series – recognized for their superior clarity, customization options, and dependability in displaying crucial game information. A standout exhibit will be the pioneering Ora Vue Blackjack Display Controller, which introduces a new dimension to the game by utilizing advanced camera recognition technology for automatic card entry. This intelligent system enhances the player experience by providing immediate access to hand histories, live odds, and past statistics, making gameplay more engaging, transparent, and accessible to players of all skill levels. The Ora Vue Blackjack Display Controller integrates seamlessly with the Ora Luxe Winning Number Display, creating a fully connected and visually polished solution for modern gaming environments. To further generate excitement, TCSJOHNHUXLEY will demonstrate its highly acclaimed Supernova Progressive Jackpot System, a distinctive and customizable platform engineered to boost player engagement and elevate excitement on the gaming floor. This unique system allows operators to design their own jackpot configurations, perfectly suited to their specific gaming floor, offering a smooth integration of traditional gameplay with contemporary rewards. Further underscoring the company’s dedication to operational excellence is the eagerly awaited Chipper Champ 3, representing a significant advancement in the digital transformation of table operations. Featuring a sophisticated sorting hub that ensures exceptional accuracy along with real-time connectivity, the system is powered by a re-engineered engine built for superior performance. By simplifying chip handling and enhancing efficiency, Chipper Champ 3 solidifies its status as the industry standard for Roulette operations. These innovations complement the company's globally recognized core product range, which includes precision-crafted Roulette wheels and Gaming Tables, as well as dependable Dice Shakers. Rebecca Kingswell, TCSJOHNHUXLEY global head of operations and managing director APAC, stated: “G2E Asia 2026 provides us with an outstanding opportunity to highlight our commitment to leading innovation in the industry. We are eager to connect with our partners in the region and demonstrate how our latest developments can transform table performance and drive tangible growth. Our primary focus remains on delivering the impactful solutions that operators require to thrive in an evolving market.” A visit to the TCSJOHNHUXLEY stand offers more than just a product display; it's a chance to understand why the company is a trusted, long-term partner for casinos worldwide. Attendees can explore one of the industry's most comprehensive portfolios for live gaming, encompassing everything from traditional craftsmanship to state-of-the-art electronic systems. The expert team will be available for personalized consultations to address specific operational challenges and illustrate how innovation, quality, and support can deliver enduring value. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Gibraltar is acting swiftly to establish itself as a leader in technology, making prediction markets and tokenisation core parts of its regulatory approach. In remarks made before his journey to Consensus Miami, Justice, Trade and Industry Minister Nigel Feetham clarified the strategy: move early or face the possibility of falling behind. His statements highlight a focused effort to grow Gibraltar's current digital assets and gaming landscape into related areas, stating the intention to 'lead from the front'. Gibraltar’s jump into predictions The jurisdiction has already started issuing licences to prediction market operators, demonstrating a readiness to act more rapidly than larger regulators who are still evaluating how to categorise and oversee this sector. Nations such as the UK, France, and the Netherlands have all indicated that prediction markets would require gambling licences – a step most firms are reluctant to take as it would label them as gambling businesses. Feetham presented the quick licensing of the widely talked-about ADI Predictstreet in Gibraltar as a competitive edge rather than a regulatory danger, noting that more applications are already underway. He also cited US President Donald Trump, whose government has been considerably more receptive to prediction markets than that of his predecessor, Joe Biden. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) shifted from strong opposition under Biden to initial neutrality and then full support under Trump. “President Trump is right. In a fast-moving global market, countries that stand still risk being left behind,” said Feetham. “That is why Gibraltar is moving at pace across key digital sectors including AI, digital assets, and prediction markets, supporting innovation and expanding the ecosystem we have already built. “We have chosen to act early on the licensing of prediction markets because Gibraltar is not only ensuring it is not left behind, we intend to lead from the front. “We are already seeing strong interest following the recent licensing of an operator and expect to progress a number of new applications.” Nigel Feetham. Credit: LinkedIn Gibraltar keeps eye on emerging tech Tokenisation is the next focus. Draft laws are finished and should be released soon, fulfilling pledges made earlier this year. The goal is to build a clear framework enabling tokenised assets to evolve within a regulated setting, similar to Gibraltar's prior strategy for digital assets. This regulatory drive coincides with prediction markets gaining global momentum, especially around major sports events. As noted, FIFA has entered this arena via a new partnership with ADI Predictstreet. Nevertheless, initial limitations persist. Since ADI Predictstreet is presently licensed only in Gibraltar, its ability to access other regulated markets is restricted. Feetham may well be urging other jurisdictions to emulate Gibraltar, as with a single licence, ADI Predictstreet can only serve Gibraltar's approximately 40,000 residents. Indeed, prediction markets are increasingly featuring next to traditional sports betting and media deals, as shown by recent agreements like Polymarket's partnership with LaLiga's US business arm. However, numerous ethical concerns have been raised – from insider trading and the morality of geopolitical markets, to the argument over whether predictions constitute gambling or a financial service. These concerns were voiced again just this morning, with a gambling addiction expert demanding prediction market regulation in Ireland. Opportunities in prediction markets are evident, driving Gibraltar's speedy action, but hasty regulation could trigger various problems soon, which may be discouraging other European countries from acting. The controversies surrounding Kalshi and Polymarket serve as clear examples of the potential risks. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - A player-focused provider and a customer-centric platform have announced their collaboration in South Africa. Press release: TaDa Gaming is expanding further into the vibrant South African igaming market through its latest partnership with Sunbet, one of the country’s leading online gaming and sports betting operators. This new collaboration supports TaDa Gaming’s ongoing growth in regulated markets and further solidifies its presence in South Africa’s fast-evolving online gaming sector. As the winner of the SiGMA Africa Slot Newcomer of the Year 2025 award, TaDa Gaming’s mobile-first, player-centric, and expertly localized games stand out due to their dynamic features and mechanics, immersive themes,and user-friendly onboarding that aligns with local preferences. Sunbet customers will gain immediate access to TaDa Gaming’s popular Fortune Gems series, including Fortune Gems 500—currently the top slot game across African regions—while the retro slot machine design of Rapid Gems 777 has quickly made it a favorite among players. Distribution is managed by Light & Wonder Inc. Founded in 2010, Sunbet is a well-established operator with deep insights into its audience and market dynamics. Part of the globally renowned Sun International group, Sunbet holds licenses in South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia, with its headquarters in Sandton, Johannesburg. Committed to delivering a more personalized gaming experience for its players, Sunbet’s customer-focused approach has driven impressive recent growth. Adding TaDa Gaming’s award-winning content to Sunbet’s offerings will only enhance the operator’s reputation for innovative and trustworthy gaming experiences. Ray Lee, Director of Business Development at TaDa Gaming, commented: “We are delighted to partner with Sunbet. Their strong customer focus and reputation for being at the forefront of innovative content give us opportunities to expand our expertise, improve our localization efforts, and continue delivering exceptional gaming experiences to more players across South Africa.” Tyler Gentle, Casino Product Manager at Sunbetfollowed: “Great games are those that players return to. They strike the perfect balance between simplicity, reward, and engagement. TaDa Gaming’s games do exactly that—and more. They’re accessible, engaging, and importantly, built to be played. That’s why we’re so excited to have them as part of Sunbet’s lineup.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Three of the four original founders of the Canadian esports company Rivalry have stepped down, with all three also serving in C-level roles. These departures occur during a period of considerable difficulty for Rivalry. The company suspended its operations in February as a broader initiative to cut expenses, which involved halting all player activity, implementing employee layoffs, and evaluating potential asset sales. Rivalry’s director exodus Rivalry, a business listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX), reported on Friday that five senior executives in total have resigned from its board of directors. Those departing include Ryan White, Kevin Wimer, Steven Isenberg and Demi Abidogun-Benson. White and Wimer established Rivalry in 2016 together with Chief Executive Officer Steven Salz. They served as Chief Technology Officer and Chief Operating Officer, respectively. Steven Salz, CEO of Rivalry – Source: Rivalry Steven Isenberg is the third and final co-founder to depart the company. According to Rivalry’s website, he sits on the local advisory committee for the TSX Venture Exchange (TSXV). He also founded Urbanfund Corp, a real estate firm focused on Toronto that is listed on the TSXV, and was the founder and CEO of M Partners, an investment bank established in 2005. In 2023, Research Capital Corporation, another TSX-listed company, acquired M Partners. During its eight-year existence, the bank employed Rivalry co-founder and CEO Salz as an Equity Research Analyst from 2014 to 2016. The remaining two individuals who resigned were not among the company's 2016 founders. Abidogun-Benson has left her positions on the board and as interim Chief Financial Officer. She originally joined the firm in 2022 as a Senior Manager for corporate reporting, planning, and analysis, later advancing to Head of Finance in August 2024. The last director to resign was Stephen Rigby, the previous President and CEO of the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG). From 2010 to 2015, he acted as National Security Advisor to former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper. Rivalry’s struggle continues Rivalry has historically targeted Gen Z and millennial customers since it began, supported by product design, marketing, and content that leverages internet humor and culture. The company holds licenses in Ontario and Australia, but also operates in several international grey markets using an Isle of Man license. It introduced the casino.exe platform in March 2023, and iGaming has subsequently made up approximately half of its betting volume in quarterly reports. Its move into digital currencies happened even though cryptocurrency gambling is not permitted in Canada or Australia, its two licensed jurisdictions. The company continues to be referred to as a 'crypto casino' in Google search results, although its website has been offline since operations were paused in February. Rivalry started facing challenges on the TSX in 2025 when it was late filing its full-year 2024 financial statement. In April, it sought a management cease trade order from the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC). The subsequent months involved significant cost-cutting measures, including a strategic review and the engagement of New York advisory firm XST Capital Group. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The people facing charges include two Russian nationals and a Ukrainian woman who is married to one of them. Ukraine.- Ruslan Kravchenko, Ukraine’s Prosecutor General, has announced that charges have been filed in connection with an illegal online casino network operated by two Russian citizens and the wife of one of those men. Reportedly, the suspects have been charged with committing crimes as part of an organized criminal group and engaging in illegal gambling activities under Part 3 of Article 28, Part 2 of Article 203-2 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. Three of the ringleaders were additionally charged with laundering the proceeds of crime under Part 3 of Article 209. The prosecutor general stated that payments were made using cryptocurrency, including stablecoins (USDT). Players transferred funds to the operators’ crypto wallets. To legitimize their profits, the money was first accumulated in accounts of a company registered in Estonia before being transferred to offshore companies, Kravchenko said, as reported by the Ukrainian news agency, Interfax Ukraine. Assets equivalent to over UAH5 bn (around €97m) were reportedly laundered through this method. “Two Russian citizens and the wife of one of them, a Ukrainian citizen, created a large-scale online gambling network,” Kravchenko wrote on Telegram. “They recruited seven more Ukrainians into the operation. Through affiliated IT companies, scheme participants ran at least five online casino websites. Some of them had previously operated legally, but after their licences were revoked, the organisers created new sites with the same names and continued the illegal business”. The two Russian citizens were served with notices of suspicion in absentia, while the Ukrainian citizen received their notice in person. Authorities are working to determine the whereabouts of the remaining seven participants. Notices of suspicion were served on them through relatives in the manner prescribed by law, Kravchenko said. 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) - The company's revenue reached $997.4 million, marking a rise from the $991.6 million reported for the same quarter in 2025. US.- Boyd Gaming Corporation has announced its financial performance for the first quarter ending March 31. The firm's revenue was $997.4m, an increase compared to the $991.6m recorded in the corresponding period of 2025. As per the report, net income fell to $105.5m from $111.4m, while adjusted EBITDAR decreased to $317.4m from $337.5m. The corporation's Midwest & South segment experienced growth in both revenue and adjusted EBITDAR compared to the previous year. This performance was attributed to favorable comparisons against the prior year's severe winter conditions and the benefits of recent property investments. The Las Vegas Locals segment felt the effects of persistent softness in the destination business and disruptions from the continuing renovation work at Suncoast. Conversely, the online segment saw sustained expansion from its online casino gaming operations, alongside contributions from third-party market access agreements that were in line with the levels seen in the latter half of 2025. The Managed & Other category reported growth in revenue and adjusted EBITDAR, propelled by ongoing increases in management fees from the Sky River Casino in Northern California. Keith Smith, president and CEO of Boyd Gaming, stated: “Our Q1 performance demonstrates the advantages of our diversified operations, our effective concentration on operational efficiencies, and our continuing capital investment program. At the property level, we saw growth in both revenue and adjusted EBITDAR year-over-year, with property margins again surpassing 39%. These outcomes were bolstered by sustained increases in play from both core and retail customers across the company, fueled by widespread strength in our Midwest & South segment. “Moving forward, we are confident that our robust balance sheet, varied portfolio, balanced capital allocation strategy, and seasoned management team collectively place us in a strong position to keep generating long-term value for our shareholders.” Boyd Gaming also recently launched Cadence Crossing in Henderson, Nevada. This new property is situated adjacent to the Jokers Wild Casino, near the intersection of Boulder Highway and Warm Springs Road, and features more than 450 slot machines. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Tipico is now part of the Banijay Gaming division, alongside Betclic and Admiral Austria. France.- Banijay Entertainment has successfully completed its acquisition of the Germany-facing Tipico Group, thereby broadening its gaming operations. The French entity had initially announced its intention to acquire a 65 per cent stake from CVC Capital for €3bn in October of the previous year. Tipico will now operate within the newly established Banijay Gaming division, which already encompasses Betclic in France and Admiral Austria, acquired from Novatech last year. In January, the group divested its stake in Bet-at-home AG. The company reports a consolidated customer base of 6.5 million across Germany, France, Portugal, Austria, Poland, and Côte d’Ivoire. Banijay Group will retain a 65 per cent ownership of Banijay Gaming’s capital, sharing it with CVC and the founders of Tipico and Betclic. There are plans to increase Banijay Group's stake to a minimum of 72 per cent in the coming years. The restructuring includes leadership changes: Joachim Baca will move from his role as Tipico Group CEO to become Vice-Chairman of Banijay Gaming’s board. Mate Bacic, previously CEO of Tipico Austria, has been appointed as the new Tipico Group CEO. Nicolas Béraud, founder and former CEO of Betclic, will assume the position of Chairman of Banijay Gaming’s board. Julien Brun has been promoted from Betclic COO to CEO. This acquisition follows Banijay's joint venture with RedBird IMI, which resulted in the shared ownership of All3Media and the formation of one of the world's largest content production groups. The company projects that, on a pro forma basis, its combined entities would have generated €7.4bn in revenue, €1.6bn in adjusted EBITDA, and €1.2bn in adjusted free cash flow in 2025. The company anticipates double-digit growth for the expanded gaming division, bolstered by estimated medium-term synergies of €100m. Commenting on the transaction, Béraud stated: “This combination positions Banijay Gaming as a truly scaled European platform, offering enhanced diversification and greater exposure to large, fully regulated markets. By integrating our shared DNA, technologies, trading expertise, and customer platforms, we will accelerate product innovation, improve our omnichannel offering, and provide a more seamless and engaging experience for our players. Our immediate focus is on realizing the full potential of this merger to drive 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) - The gaming operator’s Alpha Hub startup initiative will provide support to the winning companies. UK.- Flutter Entertainment has revealed the recipients of its most recent Tech4Good Awards. This project, organized by the gambling firm’s Alpha Hub startup programme in collaboration with Beyond Sport, has awarded two tech startups as part of an effort to showcase its social impact amid ongoing pressure from UK legislators for stricter gambling advertising regulations. The top prize was awarded to GoodGym, a platform that motivates walkers, runners, and cyclists to perform community service while they exercise. Established in 2009, the startup currently operates in 68 regions across the UK and is recognized for its AI-driven tool, Coach, which assists users in finding local opportunities to engage and build community connections. The runner-up is Civic Dollars, a Belfast-based firm that created a geo-fencing community currency application designed to incentivize outdoor exercise. For every half-hour spent in public areas, users accumulate “Civic Dollars,” which can be exchanged for health-related courses or contributed to local charitable organizations. The Tech4Good Awards feature a total prize pool of £60,000, alongside customized guidance from both Alpha Hub and Beyond Sport. Adam Burgess, Director of Programmes at Beyond Sport, stated: “By pairing financial grants with specialized capacity-building assistance, these awards empower organizations to leverage technology to expand solutions that boost physical activity and generate sustainable health and community benefits.” Flutter established Alpha Hub in 2018 to link emerging businesses with its various brands, such as FanDuel in the US, and Sky Bet and Paddy Power in the UK and Ireland. These partnerships have covered areas including responsible gambling, product development aimed at women, and, more recently, horse racing innovation via the Future of Racing Summit held with the British Horseracing Authority (BHA). 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 gathering will unite top-tier industry professionals to analyze how operators and affiliates are navigating fierce competition. They will discuss utilizing artificial intelligence, new social media platforms, and sophisticated marketing technology to enhance acquisition, boost conversion rates, and foster long-term player involvement within shifting regulatory frameworks. Press release.- With the battle for North American players intensifying, SBC Summit Americas is set to guide industry players beyond conventional methods. The event will highlight innovative engagement strategies through its specialized North America Marketing & Affiliates track. Scheduled for Wednesday, June 10, the agenda features five panel discussions with prominent marketing experts. These sessions will explore how companies are sharpening their acquisition tactics, increasing conversion efficiency, and developing more enduring player lifecycles. Attendees will discover how to leverage AI for better player interaction, manage changing advertising rules with certainty, tap into fresh acquisition avenues like TikTok, and establish brands that prioritize player retention. Rasmus Sojmark, the CEO and founder of SBC, remarked: “Modern affiliates must manage a broader range of channels, platforms, and partnership structures than ever before. The environment is growing more intricate due to social media, content creation, AI, and martech. This specific track aims to simplify that complexity and provide participants with clear insights into what truly fuels expansion.” The track kicks off with the Affiliate Leaders Panel: The New Face of Affiliates: Branding, Voice, and Value. This session will investigate the evolution of affiliates from mere traffic sources into comprehensive marketing brands. Industry leaders Brian Christopher (FlipTheSwitch.com), Stuart Simms (FairPlay Sports Media), Manuel Stan (Catena Media), and Zaire Williams (Exclusive) will discuss how top affiliates are cultivating dedicated followings through distinct brand identities, tailored content, and deeper engagement. They will also address how these changes are altering the value affiliates provide to operators across the region. With mobile-centric and social media strategies becoming vital for player interaction, the panel Beyond the Link: Redefining Affiliate Growth Through Emerging Channels will look at how affiliates are becoming community-focused, content-driven brands. Featuring James White (Hottakes), Caleb Dykema (Vault Sports), Jon Bowden (Playstar), and Bryan Bennett (NorthCo Strategy), the discussion will cover how platforms such as TikTok, YouTube Shorts, podcasts, and live streams are changing acquisition. It will also focus on how affiliates are establishing trust and ensuring long-term viability in a competitive market. The session titled AI, Martech & the Player Journey: Redefining Engagement will delve into how machine learning and AI are reshaping operator-player connections. Experts including Vasilii Gamov (Peaky Ads), Jeremy Groves (Evenbet), Dan Morrison (Fast Track), and Adrianna Samuels (STX) will explain how operators are integrating AI tools with modern martech to stay ahead. The panel will also look at how strategic investments in AI can improve the player experience, refine marketing spend, and encourage lasting loyalty. Additional sessions will explore how North American affiliates can seize new opportunities in markets like Brazil, while another segment will focus on how operators and affiliates use modern martech to improve player acquisition and engagement. SBC Summit Americas is scheduled for June 9-11 at the Broward County Convention Centre in Fort Lauderdale. It is expected to attract 10,000 attendees interested in the North American and Latin American gaming and betting sectors. Across five stages and two breakout areas, participants can attend panels on leadership, sports betting, casino gaming, payments, technology, regulation, compliance, and player safety, featuring insights from some of the industry's most prominent figures. 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 the following piece, Volodymyr Todurov, CEO of Frogo, details how a multi-layered, real-time fraud detection strategy successfully mitigated a €26 million-plus “digital gold rush” sparked by a game integration error. Opinion.- Within the digital business landscape, automation is frequently touted as the key to scaling. However, without appropriate safeguards, it can become a double-edged sword. For a high-volume operator (with over 100,000 daily active users) processing 98 percent of payouts via automated approval, this efficiency is standard. But what occurs when a third-party game provider experiences a major logic error? Recently, a glitch in an Amatic game integration transformed an operator’s platform into a “Digital Klondike.” Players realized they could exploit the system for “extra” wins, resulting in an additional €26 million in Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) with an anticipated 98 percent payout rate at scale. In such scenarios, every second counts in determining whether an operator remains solvent or faces a liquidity crisis. Here is how Frogo reduced a potential eight-figure disaster to a manageable 4 percent loss. The Challenge: When Automation Becomes a Risk Most fraud prevention systems are built to identify “known” patterns. Conversely, provider-side glitches are “Black Swan” events—unpredictable, viral, and capable of bypassing standard player-level restrictions. The Scale: With 98 percent of payouts auto-approved, the system was essentially left wide open. The Velocity: Word of the vulnerability spread rapidly through communities of bad actors. The Frogo Solution: The “Anti-Fraud Mosaic” Rather than relying on a single firewall, we utilize a multi-layered scoring architecture that monitors the entire ecosystem, simultaneously tracking the player, the game, the session, and payout velocity. 1. Beyond the Player: Game-Level Intelligence While other systems focused on identifying “suspicious accounts,” Frogo’s AI Module targeted the game itself. The Metric: A sudden, simultaneous drop in GGR and a spike in Return to Player (RTP). The Result: The system pinpointed the anomaly at its source, enabling the operations team to isolate the problematic game before the exploit could spread further. 2. Advanced Statistical Safeguards Static limits are easily bypassed by abusers. We employed Rolling-Window Calculations to detect: The “Profitability Spike”: A sudden increase in the number of users experiencing winning sessions across the platform. Behavioural Dissonance: New players moving immediately from deposit to withdrawal without engaging in organic gameplay or onboarding bonuses—a hallmark of “fortune hunters.” 3. Real-Time Payout Scoring (The Final Gate) Frogo’s Scoring Engine automatically halted payments that exhibited abnormal balance growth or turnover speed. By the time the “gold rush” reached its peak, our system was auto-declining 96 percent of fraudulent requests, while ensuring a smooth experience for all legitimate players. Business Impact: Turning Loss into Resilience The results are clear: Potential Exposure: €26M+ Actual Loss: Limited to 4 percent. Operational Efficiency The system proved highly resilient: the payout rate rose by only 8 percent day-over-day. The operator avoided the need for a total site shutdown or the emergency recruitment of 50 manual reviewers; the platform managed the crisis autonomously. Key Highlights Seamless User Experience: No legitimate players were impacted. The genuine user base continued to play without any friction or disruption. Precision Targeting: Anti-fraud measures surgically identified and restricted only the small segment of high-risk users responsible for the eight-digit GGR surge. Is Your Automation Protected? This incident is not an anomaly—it is a warning. As the industry shifts toward full automation, the risks associated with “blind spots” are increasing. At Frogo, our goal is to ensure high-load operations remain safe and predictable. We do more than block fraud; we safeguard your liquidity. Is Your Infrastructure “Black Swan” Ready? Standard anti-fraud protocols often fail when a glitch originates from the provider. At Frogo, we believe proactive auditing and transparency are essential for maintaining market integrity. We encourage industry leaders to conduct a technical review of their automated scoring workflows to uncover potential vulnerabilities. Leap Into Safety. By Volodymyr Todurov, CEO at Frogo. 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 this article, 1xSlots investigates the evolution of SEO traffic in the era of AI-driven search. The company posits that while traffic volumes might be shifting, the inherent value remains robust, provided operators adjust their strategies, emphasize quality, and utilize artificial intelligence as a supplementary tool rather than a substitute. Opinion.- SEO traffic has long served as a primary source for player acquisition. However, the landscape for utilizing this source has shifted noticeably over the past two years. The emergence of AI-generated answers in search results has compelled webmasters to reconsider their traditional methods. Rapid adaptation and flexibility are essential. The 1xSlots team frequently analyzes search traffic dynamics and observes that this represents a reimagination of the channel, not a replacement. Search engines continue to be the main avenue for users to discover services and products. The recent changes have predominantly impacted informational queries. Many of these are now addressed directly within the search results via AI answers on the page itself, removing the need for a website visit. Conversely, commercial queries continue to drive a consistent stream of users. When selecting a service, comparing terms, or evaluating a platform's reliability, users inevitably visit the site for more detailed information. This behavior is what sustains the high value of organic traffic. Alongside these updates, the nature of quality is evolving. Traffic volume is decreasing, but the quality is improving due to a more targeted audience. Users arrive with a clear intent to understand their options and make decisions. For affiliate programs, this elevates the importance of content that aids in decision-making, such as reviews, comparisons, analytics, and practical recommendations. Artificial intelligence has become a major component of the daily workflow for SEO teams. It expedites data collection and analysis, assists in expanding semantics, structuring pages, performing technical audits, and adapting content for new markets. Processes that previously required days or weeks are now completed much faster, thereby accelerating the pace of project development. However, this shift has also led to a surge in template and identical content. Search engines have tightened their requirements regarding page quality and trust signals. Factors such as expertise, reputation, depth of development, and genuine utility have become paramount. It is clear that automated text generation without expert oversight cannot guarantee stable rankings. In practice, the most effective strategy involves using AI as a support tool, while keeping critical decision-making in the hands of the team. The distribution of clicks within search results has also undergone changes. Traffic is increasingly concentrated in the top positions, while the demands for content quality and technical optimization are rising. This heightens the importance of strategy and diminishes the effectiveness of mass-producing similar pages. Concurrently, technological barriers to entry in SEO have lowered. The widespread availability of analysis and automation tools has intensified competition. Projects that consistently build their brand, manage content systematically, and execute a long-term strategy are the ones that succeed. For affiliate programs, organic traffic remains one of the most stable acquisition channels. It is not directly reliant on advertising budgets and ensures long-term results with proper website management. While search algorithms continue to evolve, their fundamental logic remains unchanged: resources that provide the best answer to the user’s query gain the advantage. In the years ahead, SEO will retain its role, though quality requirements will become more stringent. The prevalence of superficial content will gradually decline, while the value of targeted users will rise. Artificial intelligence will become a standard part of the specialist's toolkit, further emphasizing the importance of expertise, reputation, and trust as critical factors for sustainable organic traffic growth. 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.