(AsiaGameHub) -   METABORA GAMES has unveiled BORA DEEPS v2.0, an enhanced iteration of its worldwide gamer interaction platform, designed to integrate gameplay with incentives throughout an expanded blockchain gaming environment. This latest update introduces additional game-connected quests, readily playable minigames, and a Scratch functionality intended to sustain player involvement within the platform. Good to Know BORA DEEPS v2.0 extends its capabilities beyond simple task fulfillment and prize accumulation The new version incorporates the DEEPS Minigame, allowing players immediate access without requiring any downloads METABORA GAMES has also rolled out a Scratch feature, linked to points acquired through platform engagement BORA DEEPS v2.0 Enhances Player Interaction with Deeper Features A more robust Quest system forms the core of this update. Moving beyond a straightforward structure where users finish tasks and gather BORA-denominated rewards, BORA DEEPS v2.0 now integrates missions more intimately with actual gameplay. METABORA GAMES stated its objective is to provide players with quests that align more effectively with their playing styles, simultaneously connecting these activities to wider ecosystem participation. The introduction of DEEPS Minigame is also a component of this launch. Users are able to launch and engage with these mini-games directly within the platform, eliminating the need for any downloads. This offers players a quicker access point and establishes an additional avenue for interacting with BORA DEEPS while accumulating rewards. METABORA GAMES has additionally incorporated a Scratch feature. Participants can utilize points accumulated from platform activities, including those gained from mini-games, in a raffle-like mechanism. This provides the platform with an extra element for recurring use and introduces yet another reward cycle, complementing quests and gameplay.The company indicated that BORA DEEPS v2.0 is designed to foster enhanced user retention via a continuous loop of involvement, incentives, and subsequent returns. This strategy is underpinned by user-generated content, as METABORA GAMES seeks to transform player actions into sustained ecosystem participation. Concurrently, the company intends to broaden the real-world applications for the BORA token and augment its utility throughout the wider network. 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) -   Norway has launched a four-year initiative aimed at reducing gambling's societal impact, with the program running through 2029. This action plan focuses on creating more prevention campaigns, improving treatment availability, and advancing research, instead of amending current gambling legislation. A key target group is young people aged 9 to 25, as well as other high-risk populations. The plan involves school outreach programs, digital awareness initiatives for youth, and supplying resources to help parents, educators, and communities recognize potential warning signs. Support services will also be strengthened by improving access to a toll-free helpline and broadening the availability of free, remote treatment options. The project's overarching goal is to implement a public health strategy across communities to address gambling-related issues, thereby helping to reduce and prevent gambling addiction and offer better support to at-risk individuals. 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 2025 fiscal year, Success Universe Group reported a net loss of HKD 410.4 million (USD 52.4 million), reversing the HKD 93.4 million (USD 11.9 million) profit it earned in 2024. This downturn is mainly attributed to impairment charges linked to Ponte 16, its former satellite casino in Macau. The primary driver of the company’s annual decline was an impairment charge of HKD 340.7 million (USD 43.5 million) on its ownership stake in Ponte 16, which made up about 83% of the Group’s total fiscal year loss. The Group also recorded a prorated loss of HKD 3.8 million (USD 485,000) from its Ponte 16-related associates—contrasting with the HKD 112 million equity contribution those associates provided in the fiscal year ending December 30, 2024. The official closure of Ponte 16 casino was announced on November 29, 2025, because the involved parties (SJM Resorts Limited) could not finalize a full acquisition agreement. SJM Resorts had previously signaled interest in buying multiple satellite casinos before the December 31, 2025 deadline, but ultimately only went through with the acquisition of L’Arc Casino. On its Ponte 16 investment, Success Universe stated: While the Group expects a significant negative impact on its share of results from associates following the halt of Casino Ponte 16’s operations, it remains committed to its investment in the Ponte 16 project. Ponte 16’s strategic focus will shift to maximizing the value of non-gaming assets while continuing to explore new hospitality and leisure-entertainment opportunities to drive sustainable long-term value. Despite these losses, the company saw an approximate 16% year-on-year increase in total revenues from its other business segments—including travel services, property investments, and financial assets—reaching HKD 59.7 million (USD 7.6 million). 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 Star Entertainment Group confirmed on Thursday that it has finalized a $390 million refinancing agreement with WhiteHawk Capital. This refinancing will provide the company with an extra $50 million in liquidity by restructuring its current debts and offering the option to refinance new obligations. The three-year facility incorporates a tiered minimum liquidity requirement, starting at AU $50 million for the initial 12 months, then rising to AU $75 million, and further to AU $100 million after 18 months. Furthermore, the refinancing outlines a timeline for anticipated financial reporting obligations, which include: December 2026 – Asset coverage stipulations, March 2027 – EBITDA conditions, March 2028 – Commencement of quarterly amortization. Star anticipates finalizing this refinancing by May 15, 2026, to meet the terms linked to waivers previously granted by its senior lenders. This refinancing forms part of a wider corporate restructuring. Bally’s Corporation and its affiliates invested AU $300 million into Star’s operations in August 2025, leading to a change in its ownership framework. Moreover, Star has undertaken various management adjustments and enacted cost-reduction strategies, such as office closures and workforce reductions. The company is also actively pursuing an exit from its stake in the Queen’s Wharf Brisbane joint venture, contingent on its creditors releasing the AU $700 million debt guarantee. 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.

KAWASAKI, Japan, Mar 31, 2026 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Fujitsu Limited today announced that it has signed a comprehensive industry-academia collaboration agreement with Osaka University of Health and Sport Sciences (OUHS) to create social value and develop human resources through digital transformation (DX) by leveraging cutting-edge technology in the sports performance field. Based on this agreement, both parties will begin joint discussions on fostering top athletes in various sports, including gymnastics, and exploring other applications using skeleton recognition AI.OUHS aims to further enhance its authentic education, research, and social contribution as outlined in its OUHS Vision 2031. To achieve this, the university has launched the DX/AX (AI Transformation) Promotion Project to advance the utilization of digital technology and artificial intelligence. Through education, research, and social contribution, OUHS seeks to contribute to societal change and new value creation based on sports.As part of this initiative, Fujitsu's skeleton recognition AI, which precisely and instantly digitizes human movement in 3D, developed through its gymnastics judging support system and offered via AI Technologies and Solutions within Uvance, has been adopted for OUHS's gymnastics club as an AI training system compliant with international judging standards.Traditionally, the evaluation of sports performance and techniques, including gymnastics, has heavily relied on the experience and subjectivity of athletes and coaches. By utilizing skeleton recognition AI, this evaluation will be digitized. Quantifiable metrics for each sport will be defined, and athletes' movements will be digitized in real-time, thereby creating data-driven training methods and supporting the improvement of athletic ability and the development of top-level athletes.Furthermore, by applying this technology in sports science and biomechanics lectures at OUHS, the aim is to cultivate human resources capable of utilizing and researching this technology.Future PlansFujitsu will collaborate with OUHS to explore initiatives for advancing virtual sports in addition to real sports. By utilizing skeleton recognition AI in virtual sports research, the aim is to create opportunities for young people and seniors who are hesitant about exercise to easily and safely experience sports. By visualizing the effects of physical ability improvement through virtual sports using skeleton recognition AI and allowing participants to experience a sense of growth, this initiative will encourage exercise habits, expand the sports population, and create social value.Additionally, by combining OUHS's regional collaboration programs with Fujitsu's skeleton recognition AI and the diverse cutting-edge AI technologies held by Uvance Partner, Fujitsu will contribute to solving regional issues such as promoting health among the elderly and fostering exercise habits in children through sports.Under Uvance, Fujitsu’s business mode which addresses societal challenges, Fujitsu will collaborate with its Uvance Partner, Osaka University of Health and Sport Sciences, to leverage data and AI to advance talent development and enhance sports performance, thereby promoting the well-being of people.Powered by Uvance / About Uvance PartnerTo achieve the sustainable world envisioned by Uvance, the presence of partners who bring diverse knowledge and technologies to co-create the future is essential. These Uvance Partners integrate Uvance offerings and are responsible for developing and providing innovative Powered by Uvance products that leverage cutting-edge technologies and expertise, as well as promoting their adoption within society and organizations. Fujitsu will grow together with Uvance Partners, expanding business and working to solve social issues.About FujitsuFujitsu’s purpose is to make the world more sustainable by building trust in society through innovation. As the digital transformation partner of choice for customers around the globe, our 113,000 employees work to resolve some of the greatest challenges facing humanity. Our range of services and solutions draw on five key technologies: AI, Computing, Networks, Data & Security, and Converging Technologies, which we bring together to deliver sustainability transformation. Fujitsu Limited (TSE:6702) reported consolidated revenues of 3.6 trillion yen (US$23 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025 and remains the top digital services company in Japan by market share. Find out more: global.fujitsuPress ContactsFujitsu LimitedPublic and Investor Relations DivisionInquiries Copyright 2026 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

(AsiaGameHub) -   In 2026, MAC is set to once again gather leading iGaming and affiliate professionals in Yerevan. Attendees can look forward to upgraded zones, an enhanced program, expanded networking opportunities, and, naturally, warm reconnections with long-time friends and colleagues. For nearly a decade, MAC has stood as a premier event in the industry, bringing together those who truly generate profit from traffic. Each year, the conference serves as a central meeting point for media buyers, traffic arbitrage teams, advertisers, affiliate programs, adtech companies, fintech projects, and crypto entrepreneurs. The conference unites both Russian-speaking teams, known for their substantial traffic volumes, and international brands seeking to scale and penetrate new markets. For three days, Yerevan transforms into the city of MAC – a dynamic environment where interactions extend beyond the exhibition area to hotels, restaurants, private gatherings, and parties. Why Attend MAC’26 If you believe the affiliate industry's epicenter lies solely in the US and Western Europe, consider this insight: some of the highest volumes, quickest tests, and most impressive returns on investment frequently originate far from London or Las Vegas — specifically, within the CIS region. The unique value CIS teams offer international brands: Enter new geographical markets in days, not months Launch campaigns in various sources without needing extensive manuals Confidently operate within high-risk verticals Achieve rapid scaling These teams have developed their expertise amidst restrictions, fluctuating regulations, and continuous bans. This isn't merely a method of operation; it's a distinct mindset. If you wish to engage with these teams directly, there's no need to scour Telegram channels or private chats – they all converge at MAC’26. Over 5,000 participants from across the globe – an unparalleled chance to connect with a significant portion of the industry in one location and forge new relationships More than 20 international experts – offering practical insights, authentic case studies, and actionable strategies Over 200 booths and lounges – a space to encounter competitors, partners, familiar faces, and future collaborators Legendary parties and afterparty – featuring headliners, bars, and hookahs in an atmosphere where professional contacts effortlessly evolve into friendships VIP tickets include access to the afterparty – highly recommended. Event Schedule May 25 – Pre-conference party and associated side events May 26 – Primary conference day and additional side events May 27 – Concluding conference sessions and the renowned afterparty Who Should Attend The conference provides significant value for professionals in: iGaming Affiliate marketing Traffic arbitrage AdTech and performance marketing Facebook advertising Fintech and crypto projects Digital entrepreneurship If your work is in iGaming or affiliate marketing and you are seeking a venue where East meets West, the iGaming & Affiliate Conference MAC’26 is for you. It presents a unique opportunity for international brands to meet leading Russian-speaking media buying teams and establish partnerships that can unlock new markets. MAC’26 Speakers Each year, the organizing team endeavors to assemble a truly impactful lineup of speakers from around the world – experts who possess proven strategies for generating substantial revenue in iGaming & Affiliate marketing. Confirmed speakers include: Stefan Muehlbauer – Director of the Dating Advertiser “Masters in Cash”, CEO of Affpal. Van Oakes – international performance marketing expert, CEO of Tuff Ring and GOAT Media. Anca Andreica – CEO of MaxWeb, author of Affiliate Insider, TEDx speaker, strategist behind $300M+ annual campaigns. Anton Khomenok – entrepreneur, marketer, founder of X6 GROUP, and creator of a popular expert YouTube channel. Filipp Levin – Telegram Ads specialist, head of eProfit.me (masterclass!). Why Yerevan? A safe, welcoming, and vibrant urban center Direct flights available from numerous major Western cities – simplifying logistics and avoiding visa complications An ideal neutral hub for international networking For Exhibitors 70% of exhibition booths are already reserved If you intend to exhibit, now is the optimal time to secure your space and ensure maximum audience engagement May 25-27, Yerevan, Meridian Expo MAC’26 – Position yourself at the core of the industry. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   On March 11, Matthew Ferrara, Altenar’s North America Sales Manager, took part in the Fireside Chat: The Next Generation of Sports Bettors at NEXT Summit New York, alongside representatives from Fanatics and Stokastic. The session centered on a major industry shift: a new cohort of bettors who grew up with mobile-first, instant, digital-native experiences – and they expect sports betting to meet that same standard. Betting is now integrated into the entertainment ecosystem For this new generation, betting has never been an offline, slow activity. It has always been mobile, on-demand, and woven into their daily digital habits. As discussed during the panel, betting is no longer solely about placing a wager. It is a component of a broader entertainment experience – shaped by social interaction, real-time engagement, and community. Users do not only bet. They also: talking through betting picks in group chats reacting to live events together as a community engaging with related content alongside their betting activity For operators, this shifts the core role of the product. It is no longer just a standalone tool – it becomes an integral part of the overall user experience. User expectations are shaped outside the betting industry One of the key themes from the discussion was that sportsbooks are no longer competing only with one another. User expectations are formed by the highest-performing digital products across all industries. Speed, simplicity, and seamless UX are no longer competitive advantages – they are default expectations for users today. Any friction, especially during peak high-demand moments, directly impacts user retention rates. Personalization is growing increasingly critical Matthew Ferrara highlighted an unaddressed gap that still exists across many sportsbook products: how content and betting markets are presented to users. Matthew Ferrara, Altenar’s Sales Manager for North America, said: If you visit a sportsbook and there are 3,000 available options, this can feel incredibly intimidating for the casual recreational user. Every digital product we use today is tailored to us based on our past interactions. Sports betting should be no different. The core challenge is not the total number of betting markets, but the lack of clear structure and relevant personalization. For the new generation of bettors, who are accustomed to personalized feeds across all their digital platforms, sportsbook interfaces need to evolve in this same direction. For Altenar, this means focusing on: delivering relevant betting markets faster reducing how much manual search users need to do building a more intuitive, user-led experience Building products around operator needs A key point emphasized throughout the discussion was the critical importance of flexibility. In a constantly shifting market, product development cannot remain static. Altenar’s product roadmap is shaped by: operator requirements market dynamics competitive insights and continuous product evolution based on market demand Ferrara added: We look at the broader digital landscape and ask: what do users expect today, how are products evolving across social media, ecommerce, AI and everyday digital applications – and how do we bring those same standards into the sportsbook experience. The direction of the market is clear. The next generation of bettors is not adapting to existing sportsbooks. Sportsbooks need to adapt to them. That means: less user friction more relevant experiences more intuitive interfaces and stronger integration with how users already consume digital content in their daily lives Operators that move in this direction will be better positioned to engage and retain users in an increasingly competitive market landscape. 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) -   Washington State has initiated legal proceedings against Kalshi, claiming the gambling firm operated unlawful online betting through its public event contracts trading platform. The complaint was filed on March 27 and states that Kalshi permits its users to place wagers on a variety of upcoming events. The lawsuit notes that the platform provides markets for sports, elections, entertainment, and public broadcasts—all accessible through its website and mobile applications. The state argues that Washington residents aged 18 and older can deposit funds, place bets, and use the platform across the state, while Kalshi generates revenue by charging transaction and service fees. Upon receiving the complaint, Kalshi transferred the lawsuit from King County Superior Court to the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington in Seattle. The company believes the case should fall under federal regulation, specifically the Commodity Exchange Act. The lawsuit claims that after its 2021 launch, Kalshi quickly expanded its offerings from limited market trading to include geopolitical events, sports betting, and more. Additionally, it states the company began offering spread bets, totals proposition bets, and combination wagers—parlay-style bets that use request-for-quote pricing. Washington officials also accuse the platform of enabling wagers on local political races, college basketball games, and even non-sports topics such as public hearings and global political developments. The state maintains these activities fit its definition of gambling, as well as professional gambling and bookmaking. The lawsuit also highlights Washington’s stringent gambling regulations. Online betting is illegal in most cases, with exceptions like tribal sports betting—which must occur only on tribal lands. Regulators have taken action in the past against operations they deemed illegal, including sweepstakes and social casino models. The complaint requests various forms of relief, including a ruling that Kalshi’s operations are illegal, a permanent injunction, monetary damages, and reparations. It further demands an audit of Washington-based users and the recovery of funds allegedly lost by state residents. A key focus of the lawsuit is product design and public health concerns. The state argues that Kalshi’s platform includes features like notifications, social tools, and leaderboards that could encourage compulsive betting. It also expresses concern about marketing strategies aimed at younger audiences and claims the platform blurs the line between financial trading and gambling. In its motion to transfer the case, Kalshi primarily addresses legal jurisdiction in its brief response to the allegations. The firm states it is a federal derivatives exchange regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). It notes the case involves federal legal questions, such as whether state gambling laws apply to event contracts traded on a regulated market. Kalshi further noted that several federal courts are currently hearing similar lawsuits and emphasized its transfer was timely, as the company had not yet been formally served when the case was moved. 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) -   End2End, a global technology provider exclusively focused on multiplayer bingo solutions, is set to expand its network presence across Brazil at BiS SiGMA South America 2026, taking place from April 6–9 at the Transamerica Expo Center in São Paulo. As Brazil’s regulated gaming evolves and operators expand their digital portfolios, bingo is becoming one of the most interesting complementary verticals for licensed operators. Brazil has a deep-rooted cultural connection to bingo, and as the market matures, the opportunity to bring modern, multiplayer bingo experiences into the digital environment is significant. End2End is in Sao Paulo to showcase its expertise in the Brazilian market and speak with potential new white-label partners for the End2End Bingo Network. The company is also looking to expand its affiliate partnerships and distribution reach, working with operators and affiliates looking to differentiate their offering through bingo. Founder and CEO Alejandro Revich and Chief Commercial Officer Pablo Bonifacich will be on-site throughout the event to meet with operators, affiliates and partners exploring new product opportunities within the Brazilian ecosystem. End2End is exclusively dedicated to the multiplayer bingo vertical. The company’s technology has been designed as a true end-to-end solution, combining its proprietary platform, Player Account Management (PAM), and network infrastructure to enable operators to deploy scalable bingo environments across mobile, online and physical retail locations. Alejandro Revich, Founder and CEO of End2End, said: Brazil is one of the most exciting markets in the world right now, and with our certification secured, we believe bingo will play a significant role as operators look to build out their product offering. The cultural affinity for bingo here is undeniable, and the digital infrastructure is ready. At BiS SiGMA, we want to show operators and affiliates exactly how our network model works and why End2End is the partner to bring bingo to life in Brazil. We’re here to grow our network, expand our partnerships and demonstrate that when it comes to bingo in Brazil, End2End is the clear choice. All End2End technology, including its multiplayer bingo platform and proprietary PAM, is certified for Brazil and compliant with GLI-19 standards, reinforcing the company’s commitment to compliance and regulated market requirements. 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) -   Following this agreement, StarVegas players will gain access to titles from REEVO’s latest collection, including Leprechaun Hold & Win, Mackereels Catch Them All, and Hot Chilli Party. The integration of these new titles is expected to not only enhance the operator’s content library but also contribute to player acquisition and retention. This collaboration follows a series of other agreements recently secured by REEVO, including partnerships with prominent industry players like Betsson Group and Comtrade Gaming. These strategic moves underscore the vendor’s commitment to expanding its presence in regulated markets. Karl Grech, Head of Business Development at REEVO, said:  Italy is a highly competitive and dynamic market, and we are proud to bring our games to StarVegas players. This collaboration exemplifies our commitment to delivering high-quality content that drives engagement, contributes to operator success, and creates long-term value. Paolo Marchi, Brand Manager at StarVegas, added:  The integration of REEVO within StarVegas marks a significant milestone in our growth strategy for Italy. By combining a strong content portfolio with trusted partners, we aim to further strengthen our market position and offer players an even more complete and diversified gaming experience. We are excited to commence this collaboration and explore new opportunities together. 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) -   Highlight Games, a leading developer of video virtual and instant win game software, is teaming up with Bulletproof Games to launch a Serie A slot game tailored specifically for the Italian market. Under the agreement, London-based Highlight Games will grant Bulletproof Games access to its Serie A footage archive, with the latter responsible for developing the slot game. The game will then be released in Italy through Yggdrasil Gaming’s platform. This marks a first for Highlight Games, as the company has previously only used its sports video content for virtual sports. Its SoccerBet product has performed exceptionally well in Italy, leading the company to believe that similar content in slot games could achieve comparable success. Steven Holmes, CEO of Highlight Games, said:  I’m thrilled to share this exciting update in our roadmap, which enables us to expand the reach of our premium content beyond virtual sports. SoccerBet is Italy’s top-performing virtual sports product, and we’re confident that the appeal of incorporating archive Serie A footage in games will transfer just as successfully to slots and casino settings—something that’s already been proven in sportsbooks. Craig Ball, Managing Director at Bulletproof Games, added:  This partnership lets us merge Highlight Games’ extensive Serie A content archive with Bulletproof’s expertise in crafting engaging slot experiences. We’re confident that together we’ll create a product that resonates strongly with Italian slot players and are eager to launch it later this 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) -   A recent study from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York presents challenging figures for legislators and industry operators. The report associates the legalization of sports betting with declining household credit health, with particularly pronounced effects among younger adults and in states permitting mobile wagering. Good to Know The New York Fed observed that overall delinquency rates increased by approximately 0.3 percentage points from a baseline of 10.7% following legalization. For borrowers under the age of 40, credit card delinquencies increased by roughly 1 percentage point, while auto loan delinquencies rose by about 0.5 percentage points. Spillover effects were also detected near state borders, where neighboring counties in non-legal jurisdictions experienced betting activity equivalent to roughly 14% to 15% of the direct impact. New York Fed Quantifies the Negative Impacts The study looks beyond the conventional argument that regulation is preferable to prohibition and that tax revenue validates the model. Instead, researchers analyzed the changes in credit health following the introduction of legal sports betting. Their conclusion was unequivocal: delinquency rates rose in states where betting is legal and also increased, though to a lesser degree, in adjacent areas where it remained illegal. Mobile accessibility appears to be a primary pressure point. Federal Reserve researchers found that legalization caused a sharp spike in sportsbook deposits, with the broader impact being more severe in regions allowing betting via phone compared to those limited to physical venues. This is crucial because major US operators have built their market around app-based customer acquisition and recurring deposits. The demographic divide is equally evident. Borrowers under 40 were the main drivers behind the rise in credit stress, and the implied effect on new bettors was significantly higher than the population average. The paper notes that only about 3% of individuals begin betting after legalization, but for this group, the implied increase in delinquency is around 10 percentage points, roughly double the baseline rate. Another finding holds significant weight for state politics. Residents living near legal states continued to cross borders to place bets, leading to increased betting activity and financial strain in nearby non-legal counties. This creates a familiar cycle of pressure: a state may experience some of the negative impacts even before legalizing, without the benefit of collecting any tax revenue.The paper does not call for a ban. Instead, it offers regulators a clearer map of where the harm appears to be concentrated: younger adults, mobile access, and newly acquired bettors. For operators, this is likely to intensify the debate regarding deposit limits, cooling-off mechanisms, and the true effectiveness of responsible gambling controls. 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) -   Neymar has returned to the headlines, though not for his on-field performance. The Santos striker allegedly devoted his rest day to an extended online poker marathon following his omission from the Cruzeiro fixture due to workload concerns. Good to Know Neymar's absence from the Cruzeiro clash stemmed from Santos' assessment that the workload-related risk was excessive. According to Portal LeoDias, the forward subsequently dedicated much of his weekend to online poker. On social media, Neymar later made light of the situation, commenting that there was "also a little bit of poker on the cell phone." Neymar Day Off Turns Into Poker Story The sporting aspect of this narrative is fairly straightforward. Santos opted not to field Neymar against Cruzeiro, with the club's justification focusing on physical load management over a new injury. Match-related reports indicated the coaching team aimed to prevent additional risk following a demanding schedule of fixtures. The subsequent developments attracted considerably more interest. Portal LeoDias claimed Neymar engaged in online poker for approximately 24 hours between Friday and Sunday. The same publication stated he entered a $5,000 tournament and rebought on at least three occasions, pushing his total buy-in to a minimum of $20,000. During this period, Santos contested a goalless draw with Cruzeiro. That article swiftly fueled broader discussions surrounding Neymar's relationship with Santos. Portal LeoDias suggested the incident prompted doubts regarding his dedication to the team, particularly since some had anticipated he would stay in closer proximity to his teammates despite being rested. Neymar didn't precisely refute the poker claims. In a social media post cited by Brazilian outlets, he mentioned that his day commenced with training and a family cinema outing, before noting there was "also a little bit of poker on the cell phone," concluding with a laughing emoji. For poker enthusiasts, this revelation comes as no surprise. Neymar has maintained a longstanding connection to the game, having formerly served as a PokerStars ambassador. Nevertheless, the timing transformed an ordinary rest day into yet another discussion point concerning one of Brazilian football's most prominent figures. His passion for poker has previously generated controversy. In 2023, rather than joining his Paris SG teammates in celebrating their Ligue 1 triumph, Neymar chose to devote the entire evening to poker in Monaco. 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) -   Macau has given its approval for three new baccarat side bets, providing casinos with an expanded array of supplementary wagering choices as these additional wagers continue to proliferate across the market. The Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau incorporated regulations for ‘Monkey no Monkey’, ‘Pairs+’, and ‘4/5/6 Cards’ into a guideline that became effective on March 23. Key Information The recently sanctioned side bets include ‘Monkey no Monkey’, ‘Pairs+’, and ‘4/5/6 Cards’. The revised regulatory directive came into force on March 23. Since 2024, Macau has progressively introduced more baccarat side bets, a development aided by advancements in smart table technology. Macau Continues to Expand Baccarat Side Bet Offerings Among the newly approved options, Pairs+ offers the largest potential payout, reaching 300 to 1 if both the banker's and player's initial hands consist of pairs with identical point values. 'Monkey no Monkey' yields a 50 to 1 return if the first four cards dealt across both hands are all face cards. Meanwhile, '4/5/6 Cards' provides varying payouts based on whether the banker or player wins and the total number of cards utilized. The broader trend in Macau is more significant. Side bets have emerged as a preferred mechanism for increasing the house edge, leading operators to progressively introduce more of them. For instance, 'Small 6/Big 6' was rolled out across the market around the May 2024 Labour Day holiday, with 'Lucky 7' and 'Super Lucky 7' subsequently introduced later that year, coinciding with China National Day. With the recent approval of these three additional options, Macau's casinos now possess another collection of baccarat enhancements to integrate into both general gaming floors and high-stakes play, as the regulatory body proceeds with formalizing the offering protocols for each product. 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) -   Animoca Brands has launched early access for AliBAE, a new build-and-earn platform that leverages Alibaba Qwen models to help creators produce content and apps before competing for token rewards. The rollout includes 100,000 CHECK tokens distributed across two initial campaigns. Good to Know AliBAE is now live in early access at alibae.build, with two launch campaigns. The initial reward pool totals 100,000 CHECK tokens. As of January 2026, Alibaba Qwen had surpassed 700 million downloads and over 180,000 derivative models. Animoca Centers Creator Rewards at the Core AliBAE is built around bounty campaigns: Brands share a project brief, set aside a CHECK token pool, and creators use the platform’s integrated studio to make videos, apps, and other content. Winners are selected based on a mix of community feedback and internal judging, per Animoca’s launch details. The first two campaigns come from Animoca Minds and King’s Gambit, each offering 50,000 CHECK. Animoca Minds is requesting a 20-second AI video about how personal AI agents can reshape daily life, while King’s Gambit is rewarding short-form video content tied to its game. Both campaigns end on April 8, 2026. CHECK is the foundation of the model. The token powers parts of the Checkmate ecosystem and is linked to Anichess—Animoca Brands’ blockchain chess game developed with Chess.com, which has over one million players, according to launch coverage. Separately, Coinbase notes its listings roadmap highlights assets under review, and recent market reports say CHECK was added to that roadmap.The larger focus is on accessibility. Animoca is working to lower barriers for first-time creators by embedding prompts into the platform and using Qwen, one of the most widely adopted open-source AI model families. Chevan Tin, head of Anichess and senior manager of operations and projects at Animoca Brands, said: “Many digital reward systems prioritize participation volume over the quality of contributions. AliBAE is designed to take a different approach by linking rewards more directly to the work created and how well it is received. By combining Qwen Studio’s accessibility with CHECK as an on-chain reward mechanism, we aim to give creators and builders a more practical way to participate and earn.” 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) -   BetMGM is scaling back on credit card deposits in the US. As of March 31, customers will no longer be able to add new credit cards to their accounts, and the operator stated that the broader phaseout of credit card usage will proceed beyond that date, though a final termination date has not been revealed. Good to Know BetMGM has indicated that new credit cards will no longer be addable as of March 31. The company revealed the plan during a March 25 presentation to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. DraftKings and FanDuel have already implemented comparable measures in the US market. BetMGM Starts Credit Card Exit The policy was discussed during a March 25 meeting of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, where BetMGM was penalized $100,000 for know-your-customer (KYC) shortcomings, as reported by Gaming America. During the meeting, PGCB Chair Denise J. Smiley inquired whether the company was examining credit card usage and how these cards were being utilized. BetMGM affirmed this, and Chief Compliance Officer Rhea Loney subsequently confirmed the phaseout strategy. Loney said: “In the upcoming days, effective March 31, we will cease permitting new credit cards to be added to individual accounts, and this marks the gradual discontinuation of credit card use on the BetMGM platforms.” This adjustment aligns BetMGM with a broader industry trend among operators. DraftKings eliminated credit cards as a deposit option in the US last August, citing it as a strategic business move linked to customer experience and concerns over cash advance fees and elevated interest rates. FanDuel has also halted credit card deposits in the US across its sportsbook, casino, and racing offerings.Fanatics Betting and Gaming, based on the provided source material, never offered credit card funding to US customers. This positions BetMGM as the most recent major operator to abandon the payment method as the industry continues to strengthen responsible gambling and payment regulations. FAQ When does BetMGM stop allowing new credit cards? March 31. Existing credit card deposits will be phased out following this date, though BetMGM has not announced a final termination date. Why did the issue come up publicly? BetMGM addressed the matter during a March 25 meeting of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, where the company was also fined for KYC-related issues. Which other major operators already dropped credit cards? DraftKings and FanDuel have already discontinued credit card deposits in the US.Did BetMGM give a final cutoff date for all credit card deposits? No. The company has only confirmed the initiation of the phaseout and the March 31 restriction on adding new cards. 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) -   Morgan Stanley appears poised to launch its spot Bitcoin ETF. A recent SEC filing reveals the fund will trade under the ticker MSBT and impose a 0.14% sponsor fee—an amount that would be lower than every currently listed U.S. spot Bitcoin ETF, including BlackRock’s 0.25% IBIT. Good to Know The ETF is anticipated to list on NYSE Arca under the ticker MSBT. The filing sets the fee at 0.14%, well below BlackRock’s 0.25% fee for IBIT. Bloomberg ETF analyst James Seyffart described the pricing as a “Big move” and suggested the launch could occur in early April. Morgan Stanley Makes a Low Fee Play The primary draw here is pricing. Morgan Stanley isn’t entering the market with a high-premium offering; instead, it aims to undercut competitors on cost. For a Bitcoin ETF, the fee represents the annual expense investors incur to hold the fund, meaning lower pricing can be highly significant when large firms and advisors evaluate products side by side. The filing further indicates Morgan Stanley views the launch as impending. The prospectus states sales will commence “as soon as practicable” after the registration statement becomes effective. It also confirms the Morgan Stanley Bitcoin Trust will hold spot bitcoin directly and utilize the CoinDesk Bitcoin Benchmark 4PM NY Settlement Rate as its pricing reference. Seyffart, who tracks ETFs for Bloomberg Intelligence, highlighted the fee on social media, deeming it a significant development. This response is understandable, as Morgan Stanley would be the first major U.S. bank to introduce its own spot Bitcoin ETF—doing so at a price point that immediately applies pressure to the broader market.Morgan Stanley already boasts a robust distribution network. The bank has approximately 16,000 financial advisors and roughly $1.9 trillion in assets under management within its Investment Management division, per the provided source material. If MSBT secures final approval and achieves widespread internal distribution, this reach could be as impactful as the fee itself. 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) -   Virginia legislators have transmitted SB661 to Gov. Abigail Spanberger, returning skill game machines to the forefront of the state’s gambling discussion. The bill would legalize and oversee the machines following the Virginia Supreme Court’s role in shutting them down in 2023, yet the political dynamics surrounding it are equally as unignorable as the policy itself. Good to Know SB661 would place a limit of 25,000 on legal skill games and impose a 25% tax on gross profits. Backers estimate around 90,000 unauthorized machines are already in use throughout Virginia. Pace O Matic and associated individuals have donated over $1.7 million to Virginia Democrats since 2023, per recent reports. Virginia Attempts to Trade a Gray Market for a Regulated One Advocates for SB661 make a straightforward case: Virginia already has tens of thousands of skill game machines in convenience stores, truck stops, and restaurants, and banning them hasn’t eliminated them. The bill would reduce that number, establish regulations, and generate tax income rather than leaving the market in a legal gray area. The bill establishes a $5 maximum bet, mandates players be 21 or older, prohibits machines within 10 miles of a casino, and assigns oversight to the Virginia Lottery. It also caps the market at 25,000 machines—well below the approximately 90,000 units backers claim are currently in operation. However, the trail of donations has become a component of the narrative. Recent reports indicate Pace O Matic and its executives have given over $1.7 million to Virginia Democrats since 2023, including funds to key bill supporters and $50,000 to Spanberger’s inaugural fund. This doesn’t prove votes were purchased, but it does create an uncomfortable timing issue.Critics also highlight omissions in the bill. The final draft doesn’t establish a firm minimum payout rate, meaning consumer protection concerns persist even under a regulated framework. Gov. Spanberger had previously stated she wanted a unified gambling regulator first, but that broader agency bill stalled and was delayed until 2027. 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) -   Virgin Bet has launched in South Africa, marking LiveScore Group's first Virgin Bet expansion beyond the UK. The new platform, Virginbet.co.za, forms part of a broader African strategy and will operate from the group's existing betting infrastructure in Nigeria, in conjunction with LiveScore Bet. Good to Know Virgin Bet has launched in South Africa via Virginbet.co.za. LiveScore Group stated the launch is part of a broader African expansion plan. South Africa continues to be Africa's largest regulated gambling market by betting volume. Virgin Bet Selects South Africa for Initial International Expansion Instead of prioritizing another European market, LiveScore Group has introduced Virgin Bet to South Africa. This move opens a new opportunity in a nation where betting already dominates gambling activity. According to National Gambling Board data, total wagering for the 2024-2025 financial year hit ZAR1.5 trillion, a 31.3% increase from the previous year, with betting representing 75% of that figure. Casinos accounted for 19.5%, while limited payout machines and bingo comprised 3.6% and 1.8% respectively. The approach is simple. Virgin Bet aims to establish itself in South Africa's rapidly expanding sports betting sector, which centers on football, rugby, and cricket. Gail Odgers, Virgin Bet South Africa's marketing head, commented: “We’re focused on building trust and introducing Virgin Bet in a way that South Africans can feel confident in. Whether it’s football, rugby or cricket, sport is part of everyday conversation. That passion is what makes this market so exciting for us.” Player protection features prominently in the launch communications. LiveScore Group confirmed the South African platform includes deposit limits, time-out options, self-exclusion tools, age verification, and a dedicated local customer support team. The company also announced plans for local corporate social responsibility initiatives focused on safer gambling.The group previously operated betting services in Nigeria, with earlier reports indicating LiveScore Bet products were active there within a wider multi-market framework. This established African presence helps explain why South Africa was chosen as the next market for expansion. 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) -   Tilman Fertitta has reached an agreement to acquire the Connecticut Sun from the Mohegan Tribe for a record-breaking $300 million. Following one final season in Connecticut, the franchise is set to move to Houston in 2027 and revive the Houston Comets name, subject to league authorization. Good to Know The $300 million purchase price sets a new high for a WNBA team. The franchise will remain in Connecticut for the upcoming season prior to its relocation. The original Comets secured the first four WNBA championships between 1997 and 2000. Historic Transaction Concludes Mohegan Ownership Having purchased the team in 2003, the Mohegan Tribe made history as the first Native American tribe to own a professional U.S. sports franchise and the WNBA's inaugural independent owner. Although the Sun made four appearances in the WNBA Finals, they did not secure a championship. Joe Soper remarked: “Mohegan is deeply thankful to our devoted fans who have supported the team throughout 23 fantastic seasons.” He continued: “This organization — and the significant contributions of the gifted athletes who represented us — has had a profound and lasting effect on Mohegan Sun and the surrounding community.” Patrick Fertitta expressed to ESPN that the family is “excited to return the Houston Comets to this great city” and feels “the moment is ideal to launch a new chapter of Comets basketball.” Fertitta, who also owns the Houston Rockets, shares casino industry connections with the sellers through entities like Golden Nugget, Wynn Resorts, and Mohegan Sun. 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.