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(AsiaGameHub) -   In the wake of BetMGM’s continued growth, Stella David, the CEO of Entain — the firm that co-owns the gaming brand — has publicly stated that Entain is targeting to capture as much as 50% of New Zealand’s upcoming iGaming market. Entain Makes Major Wager on New Zealand’s Emerging iGaming Sector Per David, Entain is the only online operator with the ability to cross-sell sports betting and iGaming products, a capability powered by its New Zealand betting arm TAB, a state-backed, exclusive system for sports and racing wagering. As TAB is the country’s only legal provider of both in-person and online sports betting, Entain’s entry into the online casino space would give the firm access to a large existing customer base. Notably, David’s announcement comes just a few months after Entain rolled out large-scale job cuts for its New Zealand branch as part of its efforts to reduce operating costs. Despite that move, the company remains fully committed to achieving its newly announced goal. Entain continues to build momentum across its online gambling division, with Net Gaming Revenue (NGR) forecast to rise by 5–7% on a constant currency basis. During the latest earnings call, David shared that total group NGR climbed by 8% to $6.6 billion for the 2025 fiscal year. Entain Is Already Making Headway Toward Its Target At present, online gambling is prohibited in New Zealand, and the country only has six physical casinos operating across its territory. However, in June 2025, New Zealand began advancing legislation to legalize iGaming, clearing the path for online casinos to launch operations in the country. The regulatory framework allows for up to 15 licensed platforms, and Entain is aiming to secure three of these available permits. Earlier this year, Entain publicly shared its plan to expand into New Zealand’s forthcoming online casino sector, with intentions to bid for three licenses once the government opens the application window in late 2026. Securing these licenses would let the company grow its user base and expand its product portfolio, further strengthening its position in the local market. Andrew Vouris, CEO of Entain Australia and New Zealand, pointed out that Entain’s existing footprint and operational experience in New Zealand already provide a solid foundation for success. Per Vouris, the company will be the only operator in the market capable of offering sports betting, racing wagering, and potential casino services. Currently, Entain holds the exclusive license for online sports and racing betting in New Zealand, where it has posted a 28% year-on-year increase in operational performance. During a recent earnings call covering its full 2025 financial results, Entain reported consistent growth across all of its product lines. 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) -   Several operators have submitted license applications in Finland as the nation moves to terminate its iGaming monopoly and welcome a new age of commercial gaming. Finland Gets Ready to Roll Out Its Commercial iGaming Market Finland has been making consistent progress toward launching its deregulated online gaming market. Last year, the country enacted legislation to terminate Veikkaus’ monopoly. This step was the result of months of discussions and preparations, firmly confirming the imminent launch of a competitive iGaming market. Per the current timeline, the new online casino gaming market will officially launch on July 1, 2027. Given Finns’ deep enthusiasm for gaming, numerous operators have queued up to enter the market. 24 Operators Are Gearing Up for July 1, 2027 Official statistics indicate that a total of 24 online operators have applied for licenses to date. This points to significant interest in the market, which is understandable given Finns’ passion for gaming. Although Finland’s iGaming sector has operated as a monopoly until now—with Veikkaus as the sole permitted provider of such products—this has not dampened local players’ interest in gaming at all. Studies suggest that an impressive 70% of Finnish adults participate in at least some form of gaming, a figure that could rise sharply once commercial gaming goes live. In an interview with iGB, Nordic Legal’s head of office, Pekka Ilmivalta, described Finns as “heavy gamblers” and the launch of a reformed gaming market as a “long-awaited change.” A large number of players are interested in online lotteries, which may be one of the verticals with the highest potential to appeal to locals. More Operators Are Taking a “Wait and See” Stance Meanwhile, additional operators are closely monitoring the situation without submitting license applications yet, as details around iGaming advertising and responsible gambling requirements have not been fully clarified. Experts note that the market could have up to 50 licensees at launch. Still, Veikkaus—set to continue operating, though no longer exclusively—will likely remain a leading player. Veikkaus has been largely optimistic about the launch of licensed iGaming, even though it had to undergo reforms and make cuts in preparation for the changes. 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 Kentucky Senate has passed House Bill 904. US.- The Kentucky Senate has passed House Bill 904, legislation that seeks to modify the state's gambling regulations. The measure would increase the legal age for sports betting from 18 to 21 and prohibit proposition bets on college athletes. The bill would also authorize fantasy sports betting, placing it under the oversight of the Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation. It further limits certain proposition wagers on college athletes and stipulates that sportsbook operators are barred from running prediction markets within the state. The House approved the bill in March. It now proceeds to Governor Andy Beshear for consideration. 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) -   As the English Premier League’s voluntary ban on front-of-shirt gambling sponsorships draws near, clubs are already counting up the financial costs they face. UK.- After years of discussion, the English Premier League’s voluntary ban on front-of-shirt gambling sponsorships will come into force soon for the 2026/27 season. At the same time, the UK government appears likely to introduce a mandatory ban on sponsorship deals with operators that do not hold a licence from the Gambling Commission. While the upcoming voluntary rule still allows other logo placements, including on the sleeves of jerseys, the change will inevitably hit the finances of some clubs. This is because 11 out of 20 Premier League clubs still have front-of-shirt gambling sponsors in the current season, and many are already bracing for sharp revenue drops. Reports indicate that nine clubs have still not secured new shirt sponsors for the upcoming season, highlighting the scale of disruption to one of football’s most valuable commercial assets. Historically, betting companies — especially those targeting Asian audiences that often lack Gambling Commission licences — have paid premium prices for the global exposure that Premier League shirts offer. The Guardian has cited executives revealing that “nearly everyone” outside the top six clubs will lose money, with mid-tier sponsorship offers from non-gambling businesses sitting around 50 per cent lower than existing deals. This pulls annual contract values from the previous £8-£12m range closer to £4-£6m, and the collective shortfall across the entire league could reach £80m. Sean Connell, editor of The Sponsor, estimates that clubs could lose around 38 per cent of their total shirt sponsorship value when replacing gambling brands. One club executive has reportedly admitted that the strongest non-gambling offer the club received was less than half the value of its current deal. Some clubs have already announced new arrangements at reduced rates. Bournemouth has confirmed that Vitality, its existing stadium sponsor, will take over shirt sponsorship duties, while Brentford is close to finalizing a deal with Indeed, its current training kit partner. These new agreements are reportedly worth £4-£5m per year, well below the value of previous gambling-backed contracts. Signs point to financial services companies being the most likely candidates to fill part of the gap left by gambling brands. Everton and Fulham are reportedly in negotiations with CMC Markets for deals worth up to £50m over three years. Other clubs already have long-standing financial sector partnerships in place, such as Brighton with American Express, Tottenham with AIA, and Liverpool with Standard Chartered. The big six clubs are more insulated from the impact, as smaller clubs have typically leaned heavily on gambling sponsorship contracts. Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City and Manchester United continue to earn £50-£60m a year from their sponsorships, while Tottenham’s £40m deal with AIA remains fully in place. Chelsea, however, has struggled to secure long-term shirt sponsors, relying on short-term agreements including its current deal with IFS. First announced back in 2023 during the previous UK government’s Gambling Act review, the Premier League’s choice to voluntarily implement a front-of-shirt gambling sponsorship ban was meant to ease public pressure for a full nationwide ban. This allows clubs to still benefit from more modest arrangements with the gambling sector, while leaving the more gambling-dependent English Football League (EFL) unaffected. However, the potential introduction of a ban on deals with gambling operators that lack a British licence could end up causing more widespread financial challenges across British football. For now, clubs continue to explore other revenue streams linked to the gambling sector. Everton and West Ham have shifted gambling partners to sleeve sponsorship positions, while Newcastle has signed a pitchside advertising deal with 8Xbet. There are also suggestions that gambling operators could be displaced from the EFL, where Sky Bet’s title sponsorship agreement runs until 2029 following its renewal in 2023. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   During the Cheltenham Festival, Alex Wood utilized absurd fake identities to place bets. UK.- Former fraudster Alex Wood, who served an eight-year prison sentence following over 25 years of criminal activity, has carried out an investigation into unlicensed gaming for Flutter Entertainment. The results have intensified worries regarding the unlicensed gambling sector. Wood currently serves as an anti-fraud consultant and the CEO of Reform Courses, a provider of fraud-awareness training. During the Cheltenham Festival in the UK, he illustrated the simplicity of wagering on unauthorized websites by creating accounts with false identities. As part of his study, which was broadcast on BBC Radio 4’s Scam Secrets, Wood established an account with the unlicensed operator VeloBet using the personal information of trainer Willie Mullins and subsequently placed bets on races featuring Mullins' horses. Other instances involved registering on platforms owned by Santeda International using identities like the nine-year-old racehorse Constitution Hill and the fictional character Little Bo Peep. In one scenario, a live chat agent congratulated one of his aliases on their upcoming 18th birthday, even though his registration details showed he was underage. Wood also discovered that certain operators permitted him to gamble despite him being registered with GAMSTOP, the UK's self-exclusion scheme. At the Deal Me Out’s Illegal Gambling Prevention Conference, Wood presented his findings and warned that illegal platforms are becoming "completely indistinguishable" from licensed ones. He pointed out the use of merchant category codes (MCCs) to prevent banks from identifying gambling-related transactions, a tactic that enables payments to circumvent banks' gambling blocking tools. He noted that some applications available in app stores were marketed as "adventure games" or "puzzle games," yet they offered real-money gambling. Additionally, he asserted that platforms such as Instagram enable illegal betting by permitting influencers to promote it, and that AI-powered chatbots are also directing users to unlicensed gambling websites. Regarding potential solutions, Wood suggested that targeting payment service providers could be effective; however, the use of cryptocurrency complicates this, as some unlicensed gambling sites provide detailed instructions for crypto transactions. He recommended that further steps be taken to exert pressure on the market and raise public awareness of the issue. 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) -   Ecker brings over two decades of experience in managing luxury resort and casino operations. US.- Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada, has appointed Cheraz Ecker as its new general manager. Previously, she held the position of general manager at Atlantis Casino Resort & Spa in Reno. Her extensive experience also includes leadership roles at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore and at The Venetian and The Palazzo in Las Vegas. This appointment coincides with the resort's ongoing development of a new arena. The resort itself features a hotel and a casino equipped with 1,400 slot machines, 45 table games, a dedicated poker room, and a high-limit room. Additionally, it offers a variety of dining options, entertainment venues, a spa, and a swimming pool. Alex Meruelo, chairman and CEO of The Meruelo Group, the owner of Grand Sierra Resort, stated: “Cheraz possesses a global perspective and a profound understanding of luxury hospitality operations. As we continue to expand Grand Sierra Resort and advance the development of the new arena, her leadership will be instrumental in positioning the property for sustained success.” Ecker commented: “Grand Sierra Resort already boasts an exceptional reputation as Reno’s premier destination resort. With ongoing investments in entertainment and the development of the new arena, there is a significant opportunity to further enhance the guest experience and bolster Reno’s standing as a key destination for visitors throughout the region.” According to the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB), the state's casinos reported $1.23 billion in revenue for February, marking a 1.5 percent increase compared to the previous year. Clark County, which encompasses the Strip, downtown Las Vegas Strip, North Las Vegas, the Boulder Strip, and surrounding areas, generated $1.07 billion in revenue, a 0.7 percent rise from the same month in 2025. The Las Vegas Strip alone contributed $696.2 million, up 0.86 percent. Washoe County, home to casinos in Reno, Sparks, and North Lake Tahoe, saw revenue of $84.2 million, an increase of 7.1 percent year-over-year. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   The KSA has emphasized that operators must not levy any fees for account closures. The Netherlands.- The Dutch gambling regulator Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) has sent a reminder to operators about regulations covering the closure of online gaming accounts and payout of player funds processed through customer service. It confirms it has received both concern reports from players and questions from the gambling sector. The KSA noted that reports show players sometimes encounter conditions regarding payouts, such as mandatory minimum amounts or extra actions that have to be completed via customer service. On top of this, the regulator has received inquiries about charging of fees for closing a player account. The KSA stressed that all licensed gambling operators in the Netherlands are required to close a player account whenever a player submits a request for closure. When processing the request, they must pay out all remaining account balance without unnecessary delay. Operators are not permitted to charge fees for closing an account. The regulator explained that any such fees would act as a barrier for players and discourage them from closing their accounts when they wish to do so.  However, the KSA clarified that when specific conditions are met, operators can charge fees for management of gaming accounts, payout processing, or the use of specific payment methods. All such charges must be shared clearly and unambiguously with players before any services are provided. Payout processes through customer service Gambling providers are also required to pay out player funds without delay when a player requests a withdrawal, and no permanent structural conditions can be applied to this process. For example, it is against the rules to require a minimum amount before a payout can be issued.  The KSA stated it has found no evidence that operators impose improper payout conditions, but it has observed that some operators refer players to customer service for payouts of small amounts. The regulator confirmed this approach is allowed, as long as players are clearly informed of the process ahead of time and the payout is processed immediately after the request.  Last week, the KSA published two new studies and released additional guidance for online gambling licensees in the Netherlands on meeting their duty of care obligations. The documents provide insight into current industry practices and offer clarification on personal interviews and the submission of registration notifications for the Central Register for Exclusion from Gambling (Cruks). 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) -   N1 Partners has outlined the major sporting events and promotions for April to assist affiliates in acquiring tier-1 traffic, spotlighting opportunities within the UEFA Champions League, NBA, and NHL playoffs. Press release.- The high-intensity sports season persists in April, featuring a packed calendar of matches, tournaments, and critical phases that reliably generate surges in player engagement and deposit volumes. This presents a prime window for affiliates to capture high-intent traffic and amplify performance during these peak periods. Affiliates collaborating with N1 Partners can direct sports-focused traffic through three core products: N1 Bet, RollXO, and Lucky Hunter. This provides the flexibility to grow a dedicated sportsbook operation while simultaneously boosting monetisation via high-converting casino brands. By addressing both betting and casino audiences, you can access a broader spectrum of user intent and enhance overall revenue potential. This is particularly important for partners involved in the N1 SEO Traffic Cup, where strategic timing, traffic distribution, and intelligent scaling directly influence final outcomes — and where teams can further channel SEO traffic to sports, broadening their reach and opportunities for growth. Key sports events in April To aid in campaign planning and efficient scaling of Tier-1 traffic, the N1 Partners team has compiled a list of pivotal sports events to target this month. Soccer The month is dominated by crucial European tournaments and elite domestic league fixtures. The quarter-final and semi-final stages of the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, and UEFA Conference League, combined with significant national matches, produce regular traffic peaks. 07.04–08.04 | UEFA Champions League | Quarter-finals, 1st leg09.04 | UEFA Europa League | Quarter-finals, 1st leg09.04 | UEFA Conference League | Quarter-finals, 1st leg10.04 | Bundesliga | Dortmund vs Bayer Leverkusen11.04 | Premier League | Chelsea vs Manchester City12.04 | Serie A | Atalanta vs Juventus12.04 | Ligue 1 | Lens vs PSG14.04–15.04 | UEFA Champions League | Quarter-finals, 2nd leg16.04 | UEFA Europa/Conference League | Quarter-finals, 2nd leg18.04 | Premier League | Man City vs Arsenal18.04 | Copa del Rey Final | Atletico Madrid vs Real Sociedad22.04 | DFB Pokal | Leverkusen vs Bayern23.04 | DFB Pokal | Stuttgart vs Freiburg26.04 | Serie A | Milan vs Juventus28.04–29.04 | UEFA Champions League | Semi-finals, 1st leg30.04 | UEFA Europa/Conference League | Semi-finals, 1st leg Basketball The commencement of the NBA Playoffs signifies one of the most potent periods for high-intent traffic and recurring user activity. 18.04 | NBA | Playoffs Ice Hockey April blends regular-season games with the onset of the NHL Playoffs, a time when engagement typically escalates as teams compete in elimination rounds. 10.04 | NHL | Dallas Stars vs Minnesota Wild18.04–21.06 | NHL | Playoffs Tennis 21.04 | WTA | Madrid Open22.04 | ATP Masters | Madrid MMA & Boxing April's fight schedules feature headline bouts and compelling undercard events, ideal for generating short-term traffic spikes and hype-oriented campaigns. 11.04 | Boxing | Tyson Fury vs Makhmudov12.04 | UFC 327 | Procházka vs Ulberg12.04 | UFC 327 | Van vs Taira12.04 | UFC 327 | Blaydes vs Hokit12.04 | PFL | Pettis vs McKee Cricket International series offer a consistent stream of traffic, particularly in regions where cricket enjoys significant popularity. 17.04–23.04 | ODI Series | Bangladesh vs New Zealand27.04–29.04 | T20 Series | Bangladesh vs New Zealand Active promotions across N1 Partners brands To help affiliates boost conversion rates and derive greater value from their traffic, N1 Partners is operating a variety of seasonal promotions across its key user brands. These initiatives provide stronger creative hooks and foster increased player engagement. Fortune’s Gold Lottery (N1 Bet, RollXO)Period: 09.04–29.04Prize pool: €85,000 (RollXO) | €100,000 (N1 Bet) Advent Calendar (N1 Bet, RollXO)Period: 03.04–12.0410 daily tasks with rewards for players. Egg Hunt (RetroBet, Jet4Bet, SlotLounge, Spirit Casino)Period: 01.04–04.04Seasonal Easter promo with short-term engagement mechanics. Race Lottery (RetroBet, Jet4Bet, SlotLounge, Spirit Casino)Period: 10.04–16.04Prize pool: €20,000 + 5,000 FS April Fortune Lottery (SlotLords, SlotsMines)Period: 10.04–16.04Prize pool: €10,000 + 5,000 FS (SlotLords) | €7,000 + 3,000 FS (SlotsMines) Easter Lottery (SlotMafia, SlotHunter, LuckyHunter)Period: 10.04–17.04Prize pool: €10,000 (LuckyHunter) | €8,000 (SlotMafia, SlotHunter) How to maximise results from event-driven traffic Success in Tier-1 markets is closely linked to major sporting events. Pivotal matches, playoffs, and finals naturally attract greater attention and improve the environment for deposits and repeat interaction. To optimise April traffic performance: Concentrate on high-stakes matches, playoffs, and finals where user intent peaks. Synchronise campaigns with match days and crucial tournament phases. Increase budgets during periods of peak demand rather than dispersing traffic uniformly. Integrate sportsbook and casino channels to boost total monetisation. Respond swiftly to performance metrics and expand successful campaigns. How affiliates can scale traffic right now April presents numerous high-conversion opportunities fueled by major sports events and compelling player promotions. Direct your traffic towards key sports events and active promotions on N1 Partners brands: N1 Bet, RollXO, and Lucky Hunter. The N1 Partners team is available to assist with the latest promotions, analytics, and practical advice to support efficient scaling. 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 Ministry of Finance’s proposed amendment mandates that players secure a personal card for participation in both physical and digital gambling activities. Lithuania.- The Ministry of Finance has put forward legislative changes for Lithuania’s gambling sector, introducing a player card system for both offline and online gaming. Finance Minister Kristupas Vaitiekūnas outlined a phased strategy, beginning with regulatory simplification in 2027, followed by the enforcement of mandatory gambling cards and cashless transactions effective January 1, 2029. According to the ministry's proposal, all gamblers must acquire a personal card prior to engaging in any gambling activity. These cards would aggregate records of all deposits, winnings, and losses across operators, enabling the Lithuanian gambling regulator to oversee activity more efficiently. Vaitiekūnas characterized the card as a fundamental instrument for responsible gambling, emphasizing its capacity to mitigate harm and restrict access for at-risk individuals. The reform also necessitates a move away from cash transactions. Starting in 2029, all payments and withdrawals within gambling establishments must be processed via non-cash methods linked to the player card. To facilitate this transition, operators will be granted a three-year period to update or replace their equipment to comply with the new standards. In addition to the technical implementation, the amendments would broaden the powers of Lithuania’s gambling regulator and simplify compliance duties for operators starting May 1, 2027. Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė has endorsed the reforms, stating that the administration is exploring various measures to bolster oversight and minimize gambling-related harm. This initiative builds upon previous gambling reforms in Lithuania. In June 2024, the budget and finance committee approved measures to establish a centralized player database and impose monthly or annual loss limits. Furthermore, the nation has implemented strict advertising regulations, including a prohibition on most outdoor gambling advertisements starting July 1, 2025, and a total ban effective January 1, 2028. 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 firm will participate in the São Paulo gathering, concentrating on the operational hurdles presented by the newly regulated landscape. Press release.- Alea is making a return to SiGMA South America 2026, which runs from April 7 to 10 in São Paulo, at a time when Brazil’s regulated gaming scene is evolving into a more organized and competitive stage. Following the initial buzz of entering the market, operators are now zeroing in on the day-to-day realities of operating in a formalized setting: maintaining system stability, securing certification for games and platforms, and meeting the needs of a growing, more discerning player base. The dialogue has moved from celebrating launch achievements to prioritizing long-term expansion and sustainable business practices. Alea’s CEO Jordi Sendra will be present at the event along with teams from partnerships, account management, business development, and marketing. The team will be stationed at Booth N145 all week, engaging with operators and studios to talk about current projects and the real-world challenges they’re encountering in Brazil. Bridging the Gap: The future of land-based and digital gaming On Wednesday, April 8 at 12:45 PM, Jordi Sendra will participate in the panel “Physical or Digital? Between Boundaries and Convergences in the Casino Industry.” Together with representatives from ANCASSINOS, Sportradar, Zitro Digital, Amusnet, and Maia Yoshiyasu Advogados, the discussion will examine how operators can remain competitive as the distinction between land-based and online gaming becomes increasingly unclear. Oxygen Bar and award recognition Alea will once more host its popular oxygen bar on the exhibition floor, providing a space for attendees to refresh themselves and hold focused discussions. This event also represents a key milestone for the company, as Alea has been shortlisted for the Best Aggregator award at the SiGMA South America Awards on April 6. Sendra commented: “Receiving a nomination in Brazil this year means a great deal to us. The market has set higher standards for all players. It has driven us to be more disciplined, more engaged locally, and more attuned to the actual needs of the Brazilian player. For our team, this nomination is a fantastic acknowledgment of the hard work we’ve put in on the ground and the strong partnerships we’ve established across the region.” Supporting growth in a maturing landscape Throughout the week, between the panel discussion and booth meetings, the focus will be on delivering the practical advice and technical assistance that operators currently require to grow with assurance. As the aggregator boasting the largest collection of certified games and game providers in the region, Alea remains committed to supporting its partners in navigating the complexities of the more structured environment, ensuring that both studios and operators can maintain their competitiveness as the market continues to mature. 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) -   Friday saw a significant development in Nevada's efforts to regulate prediction markets, as a judge ruled in favor of blocking Kalshi. This decision comes on the heels of the CFTC initiating legal action against several states that have sought to oversee the rapidly expanding event contracts industry. Nevada Judge Upholds the Restrictions on Kalshi Last Friday, Nevada judge Jason Woodbury upheld the restrictions placed on Kalshi, which prohibit the company from offering its products to Nevada residents without a license. This ruling follows an initial restraining order issued against the prediction market operator on March 20. Woodbury extended this suspension until April 17, allowing sufficient time for the finalization of a more permanent injunction. According to the latest ruling, Kalshi is mandated to implement geolocation technology to prevent users in Nevada from accessing its services. The company must achieve compliance with this requirement by May 4. When Kalshi asserted its classification as a trading platform, Woodbury countered that sports betting and prediction markets are essentially the same, despite any technical distinctions. This recent ruling in Nevada represents a victory for those who have voiced concerns about the prediction markets sector, including gaming regulators, tribal organizations, traditional gaming industry participants, and the general public. Prediction Markets Face Pushback Prediction markets have emerged as a controversial topic due to their innovative trading model. Platforms such as Kalshi enable users to trade "yes-no" shares on the outcomes of various events, referred to as event contracts. Unlike sportsbooks that focus on athletic competitions, prediction markets also permit participants to forecast the results of political events, legal developments, and cultural occurrences, positioning them as an alternative to traditional polling methods. However, the resemblance of prediction markets to sports betting has drawn criticism and led to widespread opposition to this industry. This has resulted in numerous lawsuits and friction between the CFTC, which oversees trading markets, and state gambling regulators. Some state regulators contend that prediction markets, given their similarities to gaming, should be subject to the same regulations as gaming companies. The CFTC, conversely, has strongly rejected this stance and has filed lawsuits against states attempting to regulate the sector. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   The UK’s attempts to control unregulated gambling providers face a core challenge: the black market consistently stays one step ahead of enforcement actions. A recent report by fraud expert Alex Wood, commissioned by Flutter UK & Ireland, reveals that illegal betting sites remain easily accessible and are often openly advertised. Numerous Sites Failed to Implement Even Basic Safeguards Several of Wood’s findings highlight a startling lack of due diligence. In tests conducted ahead of the Cheltenham Festival, he created accounts on offshore gambling platforms using clearly fake identities. These included names of well-known racing figures like Harry Skelton, Jack Kennedy, and trainer Willie Mullins. Addresses such as “Cheltenham racecourse” were accepted without any challenge. In a case that’s both amusing and concerning, Wood registered under the name Red Rum, listing his occupation as “racehorse” and his address as “horse heaven.” Another platform allowed him to sign up as a six-year-old residing at Buckingham Palace. These identity verification failures underscore why offshore betting sites may be particularly appealing to users looking to bypass safeguards like self-exclusion schemes. The report prominently features brands such as MyStake, Velobet, and Cosmobet. MyStake, in particular, recently faced controversy after announcing a high-profile partnership with soccer star Ronaldinho. These claims have since been debunked, as evidence suggests the photo of the famed athlete shaking hands with MyStake’s CEO may have been fabricated. Enforcement Efforts Are Still Inadequate For regulators, the problem isn’t just the existence of these platforms—it’s how they reach customers. According to Wood, social media is a key driver in acquiring new users. His Instagram feed quickly filled with posts directing people to offshore bookmakers, often via tipsters and influencer accounts. Some links led to private groups on messaging apps, where betting advice and referral codes were shared freely. I’ve been stunned by the sheer volume of illegal, unlicensed gambling content being pushed and promoted online, and social media companies have serious questions to answer. Alex Wood In one instance, Wood asked Meta AI about offshore gambling options and received links to some especially problematic black market websites that aggressively targeted UK users. Payments are another vulnerability: most sites operating outside UK regulations still allow customers to use common payment methods, including bank cards and digital wallets. This makes the switch from a regulated to an unregulated environment nearly frictionless for the average user. The issue is only worsening. Illegal operators now account for roughly 9% of the UK gambling market, a significant increase from previous years. This shift could weaken the Treasury’s recent efforts to secure additional revenue by raising gambling taxes. Regulated operators are increasingly calling for improved collaboration between the government, regulators, and technology companies—especially regarding advertising and payment systems. 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.