(AsiaGameHub) -   Sporttrade will discontinue its online betting activities in the United States after years of attempting to establish a sports trading model within a sector dominated by conventional sportsbooks. Sporttrade will cease operations on May 25. New Jersey residents must withdraw funds by May 25, whereas users in Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, and Virginia have until June 25. The platform will go completely offline on June 26, with outstanding balances sent to the addresses on file. Sporttrade notified customers on Friday that access will be terminated across all active U.S. sports betting jurisdictions. Any remaining account balances will be mailed to customers based on the information provided in their profiles. This move brings an end to a prolonged effort to merge sports wagering with exchange-style trading. Sporttrade began operations in New Jersey in 2022, following its establishment in 2018, offering sports contracts prior to Kalshi introducing similar event contracts for the 2025 Super Bowl. CFTC Plan Ends Before Sporttrade Can Pivot Just three months prior, Sporttrade was pursuing a different trajectory. The company had filed with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to be recognized as both a designated contract market and a derivatives clearing organization.Alex Kane, Sporttrade’s founder and CEO, expressed optimism following the filing. He stated: “Today marks the opening of an incredibly exciting chapter of the Sporttrade journey.” “The CFTC’s market-based regulatory framework enables Sporttrade to offer market participants a higher level of efficiency, transparency, and consumer protection compared to what has been available to date.” The application process, which commenced last April and spanned nearly a year, required Sporttrade to secure separate approvals for an exchange and a clearinghouse. Meanwhile, competitors in the prediction market sector enjoyed greater latitude to operate on a national scale.This disparity proved detrimental. While Kalshi and Polymarket emerged as prominent figures in prediction markets, Sporttrade remained constrained by state-by-state sports betting regulations. Although Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, New Jersey, and Virginia were active markets, the regulatory structure prevented Sporttrade from achieving the nationwide scope available to CFTC-approved operators.Additionally, Sporttrade encountered a regulatory framework that did not align perfectly. State gaming compacts were designed around standard sportsbooks rather than sports exchanges. Concurrently, the CFTC had opposed sports event contracts until President Donald Trump returned to office at the beginning of 2025.Kane previously remarked: “We had originally constructed our venue under the assumption that the sports trading vertical would follow the trajectory of most other electronic markets, moving toward efficiency and transparency powered by broker intermediation and institutional participation.” For customers, the critical dates are now set in stone. New Jersey users will lose the ability to withdraw funds after May 25. Users in Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, and Virginia have until June 25. Following this, Sporttrade will fully shut down the platform on June 26. 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) -   Prediction market operator Kalshi has committed $2 million over two years to the National Council on Problem Gambling as retail trading in event contracts keeps growing across the U.S. Good to Know Kalshi became the first member of a new NCPG subcategory focused on responsible trading. The $2 million investment will support trader health, safety education and awareness. Sports event contracts tied to the NBA, NFL, MLB and PGA now account for as much as 90% of projected Kalshi trading volume. Kalshi will receive platinum status under the new National Council on Problem Gambling membership subcategory. The category covers financial trading products such as cryptocurrency, equities, options, futures and prediction markets, with a focus on consumer education and risk awareness. For Kalshi, the timing is important. The company gained major attention during the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election after winning a court order that allowed election prediction markets. Since then, Kalshi has added contracts tied to economics, climate, culture and sports. Prediction Market Growth Brings Trader Safety Into Focus Sports now sit near the center of the Kalshi business. Event contracts linked to major leagues including the NBA, NFL, MLB and PGA are projected to represent up to 90% of total trading volume. Annualized trading volume stands at about $178 billion.Kalshi has already added responsible trading features such as self-exclusion, deposit limits and mental health support. The NCPG deal adds a broader education layer around prediction market risks, especially as event contracts start to look more familiar to users who also know sports betting and online casino products. Heather L. Maurer, executive director of NCPG, said: “NCPG’s goal has always been to mitigate harm by increasing education, awareness, and understanding of risky behaviors, while ensuring access to trusted, scientific, and evidence-based information and healthcare resources.” “Innovation and responsibility can and must evolve together. Kalshi’s engagement demonstrates a commitment to mitigating harm before it occurs and ensuring support resources are accessible when they are needed.”NCPG, founded in 1972, works on policies, programs and resources connected to gambling harm. DraftKings and FanDuel are already members, and both brands launched prediction markets in late 2025. Tarek Mansour, co-founder and CEO of Kalshi, said: “At Kalshi, we believe in the power of prediction markets, and we are sensitive to the fact that they, like any financial trading products, come with risks.” “As prediction markets continue to evolve, we are deeply committed to setting a new standard for responsible trading by investing in the tools, education, and protections needed to promote healthy participation and customer safety, and hope that over time all trading platforms with significant retail participation follow suit.” 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) -   Evoplay has debuted a fresh organizational framework centered on the introduction of Evoplay Studios, intended to boost production volume and enhance the localization of its game library. This updated approach integrates various internal units into a single system, enabling them to produce slots and casino titles with more creative freedom while utilizing Evoplay’s established technological infrastructure. According to the firm, the setup is intended to “expand production without compromising excellence” and facilitate more adventurous creative paths as the brand grows internationally, following its recent entry into the Brazilian market via a deal with Oleybet. Ivan Kravchuk, CEO of Evoplay, stated: By organizing our operations within a cohesive yet adaptable system, we can increase our game output while maintaining the high standards of quality and ingenuity that characterize our brand. Integrating several teams under one umbrella allows us to accelerate development, broaden our reach, and provide operators with a more varied selection of games. This strategy provides the liberty to investigate new artistic concepts while relying on a robust, common base that guarantees uniformity, productivity, and sustainable growth. This reorganization comes after Diana Larina was recently named Chief Marketing Officer, as the provider continues to optimize its management team and expansion plans. 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) -   Hacksaw Gaming declares a new alliance with Swiss Casinos, introducing its unique range of slots to players through swisscasinos.ch. Swiss Casinos stands as Switzerland's premier casino group and is fully Swiss-owned. The organization manages physical casinos in Pfäffikon, St. Gallen, and Zurich, alongside its newest venue in Winterthur. It also oversees the online site swisscasinos.ch and Zurich's GEORGE Bar & Grill. Users of swisscasinos.ch have access to an extensive variety of online games, offering a true casino feel on desktop and mobile platforms across Switzerland. Patrick Mastai, Online Casino Director of Swiss Casinos, stated: Hacksaw Gaming stands out as true innovators who bring genuine creativity to the sector. We are delighted to establish this partnership and give our players the opportunity to enjoy games from their unique and thrilling portfolio. This deal signifies Hacksaw’s fourth operational partnership within the regulated Swiss market. Marcus Cordes, Operational CEO of Hacksaw Gaming, noted: Swiss Casinos is a prestigious operator known for its high standards and trust among players. Collaborating with such a renowned brand enables us to extend our unique content to a larger demographic in a market that is experiencing robust growth. In 2025, Swiss Casinos recorded a total revenue of CHF 207.1 million. The central casino gaming operations served as the key contributor, producing gross gaming revenue of CHF 192.4 million. Out of this sum, CHF 91.1 million was allocated to the Old Age and Survivors’ Insurance (AHV) system and to the cantons via casino taxes. 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) -   PointsBet’s total group revenue for the nine-month period ending March 31 was reported at USD $133.4 million—slightly down from the prior year’s $134.7 million—with strong growth in Canada mainly supporting the results and offsetting weaker performance in Australia. Gross profit fell by 6% to USD $66.9 million, but the count of active cash customers rose by 1% year-over-year (from March 31 of last year) to 298,100. Canada saw especially robust growth, with active cash users there increasing by 9%. Additionally, after being acquired by MIXI Australia—who took a controlling stake in September 2025—PointsBet adjusted its fiscal year-end from June 30 to March 31. In Canada, revenue went up 13% year-over-year to USD $24.7 million, while total net win climbed by roughly 14% from the prior year to USD $24.8 million. iGaming revenue saw the most significant growth during this period; specifically, quarterly iGaming net winnings rose by about 28% year-over-year to USD $16.9 million, largely due to higher slot activity. Meanwhile, Australia’s revenue for the period dropped by around 4% year-over-year to USD $108.7 million. That said, the sportsbook’s gross winning margin in the region stayed steady from the prior quarter at roughly 13.3%. Over the same period, the company cut costs related to marketing: quarterly marketing expenses decreased from USD $35.9 million to $35.1 million, and overall operating expenses were trimmed to USD $32.3 million. PointsBet is currently gearing up for further expansion in Canada, as Alberta plans to launch its regulated online gaming sector in July this year. The company is among the operators seeking the necessary approvals to offer services in that province. 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) -   Gambling.com Group experienced a share price drop of more than 53% in the last five days after unveiling its Q1 2026 financial results and announcing significant restructuring initiatives. The firm’s stock fell steeply after releasing its quarterly earnings on May 14, dropping from over $5 earlier that week to roughly $2.44 in the most recent trading update. In the hours immediately following the result announcement, shares declined by more than 40%. Gambling.com reported that its total Q1 revenue rose to approximately $40.4 million year-over-year, while its adjusted EBITDA fell 43% to $9 million. This decline was due to weaker organic search performance and increasing operating expenses. As a result of these losses, Gambling.com reduced its Q1 guidance and also unveiled an AI-centric workforce reduction program, with expected annual savings of around $12 million—roughly an 8% reduction in total current costs compared to pre-program annual cost levels. According to Gambling.com’s newly appointed CEO Kevin McCrystle, the restructuring aims to help the company get back on track for “long-term sustained high-margin revenue growth” amid shifting search engine traffic trends, regulatory changes impacting funding levels, and to enhance overall service quality. The company now projects full-year revenue between $165 million and $170 million, down from its previous guidance of $170 million to $180 million. Its adjusted EBITDA guidance was also cut to a range of $45 million to $50 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) -   Kalshi is currently facing a class action lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky, alleging that the platform has provided unlawful gambling services within the state. The legal action was initiated by Donovan Roberts on behalf of Kentucky residents who incurred trading losses on Kalshi over the last five years. The plaintiffs are seeking to recoup those funds through the state's gambling loss recovery statutes. The filing asserts that Kalshi’s event contracts—which involve sports, weather, elections, and other real-world occurrences—are gambling products rather than valid financial instruments. It claims that because users wager money on unpredictable future events, they are participating in illegal gambling activities as defined by Kentucky law. According to the suit, Kalshi is operating without the required sports betting licenses and fails to meet regulatory standards in Kentucky. The complaint also points to warnings from addiction experts and researchers regarding the potential for online betting platforms to trigger financial problems, mental health issues, and gambling addiction. Kalshi has not yet issued a public statement in response to the litigation. This lawsuit emerges as Kentucky lawmakers move to implement more rigorous gambling oversight through House Bill 904. The proposed legislation includes new limitations on prediction markets and seeks to increase the minimum age for sports betting to 21. 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) -   Bragg has revealed its strategy to markedly increase its operations in the US and enhance its proprietary content offerings via the proposed takeover of Drayton International. The Toronto-based entity confirmed the completion of a share-based agreement designed to give it control over Drayton. Per the deal, the Company is to issue 4.5 million common shares valued at $2.00 per share to Drayton in return for complete ownership of the gaming developer. The deal is anticipated to finalize during the third quarter of 2026, contingent upon the signing of final contracts. Concurrently with this deal, Matt Davey is appointed to join Bragg as the non-executive chairman of the board. Bragg CEO Matevž Mazij noted that this acquisition marks a pivotal progression for the firm concerning its exclusive gaming content and player-focused technology. A main aim of this agreement involves securing Revolution Gaming’s unique aggregator alliance with BetMakers, thereby opening up advance-deposit wagering (ADW) territories for Bragg in over 30 U.S. states—a significant increase compared to the seven states where traditional online casinos are currently legal. The company is confident that this move will greatly extend its reach in the U.S., multiplying its depth in regulated gaming markets by over five times. This disclosure follows Bragg’s extensive restructuring plan, which recently led to a staff reduction of about 12% and generated estimated savings of €4.5 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) -   Bragg Gaming Group has reached an agreement to purchase Drayton International through a share-based transaction designed to incorporate game studios, technology platforms, and entry into the US advance deposit wagering sector. Key Details To acquire 100% of Drayton International, Bragg will issue 4.5 million common shares priced at $2.00 each. Drayton contributes five gaming studios along with three technology and distribution platforms. Following the deal's closure, Matt Davey is set to become Bragg's non-executive chairman. The iGaming supplier, listed in Toronto, anticipates finalizing the transaction in the third quarter of 2026, pending definitive agreements. On Thursday, Bragg released the term sheet, positioning the acquisition as a move to sharpen its focus on proprietary game content, data, and player experience. Through this deal, Bragg obtains stakes in Boomerang (54.5%), Dream Streak (48.5%), Rise Gaming (54%), Hit Squad (37.5%), and Neotopia (24%). Additionally, Drayton holds ownership or control of Arc Gaming, Vision PlAI, and 3 Shores. ADW Access Expands Bragg's US Footprint This agreement could significantly alter Bragg's trajectory in the US. With traditional online slots legal in only seven states, Bragg noted that Arc Gaming and its exclusive aggregator partnership with the BetMakers tote platform could unlock ADW access in over 30 US states.This would provide Bragg with a substantially larger addressable market in the US, reducing reliance solely on online casino legislation. The company also highlighted its remote games server technology as a means to navigate diverse regulatory landscapes. Bragg Technology Group CEO Matevž Mazij stated: “The acquisition of Drayton represents a highly strategic step forward for Bragg as we continue to expand our global footprint and invest in proprietary IP and technology.” He further noted that the “transaction will mark our first entry into the emerging ADW space.”This acquisition follows a cost restructuring initiative at Bragg. As part of a broader restructuring plan, the company reduced its global workforce by approximately 12%. Bragg indicated that the plan would incur costs of roughly €1 million, or $1.2 million, in Q1 2026, while aiming to deliver total savings of €4.5 million alongside other modifications. Matt Davey adds significant depth to the transaction. He founded and chaired Tekkorp Capital, established NYX Gaming prior to its sale to Scientific Games for approximately $631 million, and currently serves as President of BetMakers. Discussions regarding a Tabcorp acquisition of BetMakers concluded in February. Davey privately purchased one million Bragg shares earlier in 2026 and is expected to hold around 10% of Bragg once the acquisition concludes. He remarked: “Bragg has built a strong foundation as a global B2B iGaming supplier and its planned acquisition of Drayton adds a highly complementary set of assets across games, technology and distribution that accelerate its new push to focus on being a data-rich, content-first, user experience-obsessed organisation.” Current Bragg chair Holly Gagnon endorsed the change in leadership, stating: “Matt is a gaming industry luminary. I am confident that I will be passing the chair’s torch into the right hands.” 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 Philippine gaming sector experienced a decrease in first-quarter revenue for 2026, with underperformance in e-gaming contributing to the overall decline, according to the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. Key Figures Philippine gaming Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) amounted to PHP87.60 billion, equivalent to $1.42 billion, in the first quarter of 2026. This total represents a 15.9% decrease compared to the same period in the previous year. Revenue from e-gaming saw a significant drop of 22.4%, reaching PHP39.90 billion. Commercial casinos continued to be the primary source of first-quarter gross gaming revenue. Licensed private-sector casinos generated PHP44.52 billion, a year-over-year decrease of 9.7%, and accounted for approximately 50.8% of the total GGR. E-gaming followed closely in revenue generation, but its steeper decline impacted the market's overall performance. Pagcor reported that this segment generated PHP39.90 billion between January and March, making up about 45.6% of the total GGR. This category encompasses e-bingo, e-games, bingo grantees, and both onsite and off-site poker, as defined by Pagcor. E Gaming Weakness Affects Q1 Totals Pagcor-operated Casino Filipino establishments contributed PHP3.17 billion in GGR during the three months ending March 31. This figure was 8.1% lower than the previous year and constituted 3.6% of the total market revenue.Pagcor chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco attributed the first-quarter downturn to broader economic challenges, reiterating a sentiment he expressed in April. He stated: “We attribute the first-quarter dip to several factors, including softer discretionary spending amid geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, and rising inflationary pressures.” Despite the current dip, Tengco highlighted ongoing investments across the industry, including integrated resorts, digital advancements, and responsible gaming initiatives. He also expressed optimism that a more stable economic environment could lead to a rebound in demand: “We remain hopeful that once the geopolitical tensions stabilise, consumer confidence and discretionary spending will also gradually recover, which should help support improved industry performance.”The decline in the first quarter follows a robust performance for Philippine gaming throughout 2025. The full-year GGR reached PHP396.14 billion, marking a 6.4% increase from 2024. Growth in electronic and online gaming segments compensated for reduced earnings from land-based casinos, with the electronic and online segment generating PHP201.12 billion and becoming the leading revenue contributor. 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) -   MGM National Harbor is facing a federal lawsuit after server Tajia Mackyeon said casino managers took a $76,000 baccarat tip that a player had handed to her during an April 13 shift. Good to Know Tajia Mackyeon says a high-stakes baccarat player gave her $76,000 in chips. The lawsuit says casino managers took the chips and returned the money to the player. Claims include labor law violations, conversion theft, conspiracy, and emotional distress. The case centers on who controlled the chips once the baccarat player handed them to Mackyeon. Her lawsuit argues that the tip became her property, and that MGM National Harbor management unlawfully took it away. Conversion theft forms one core claim in the filing. In plain terms, Mackyeon accuses casino staff of taking control of property that did not belong to them. She also alleges violations of federal and Maryland labor law, tortious interference with economic advantage, conspiracy, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. Tip Dispute Raises Questions Over Casino Policy Mackyeon had served the baccarat player for several hours before the alleged tip. FindLaw reported:“Around 2 a.m., he put chips worth $76,000 in Mackyeon’s hands.” The report said Mackyeon asked the player three times if he was sure. He confirmed the tip each time, then returned to the tables and kept gambling. The lawsuit says management later relied on casino policy tied to player impairment. MGM policy requires staff to act when a gambler appears impaired while gambling, according to the complaint. Mackyeon argues that rule did not apply because the player “was not in any apparent state of confusion or impairment” when he gave her the chips. Her attorney framed the decision as unequal treatment. If the same player “had placed a $76,000 roulette bet on ‘red,’ and lost, [the casino] would not have given it back.”Mackyeon said her manager and a table games manager quickly took possession of the chips. She claims she complied because she “believed that if she did not comply, she would be forced to do so.” Later, she learned MGM National Harbor had returned the funds to the baccarat player. The amount also adds weight to the dispute. According to the lawsuit, the $76,000 tip would have been more than five times her normal yearly pay. Some casino operators use tipping pools that split gratuities among servers, bartenders, and barbacks. The lawsuit, however, does not point to a tip-pooling rule at MGM National Harbor that would explain the handling of the chips. MGM has dealt with other unusual casino litigation recently. In March, a Nevada federal judge allowed a separate case against the company to continue. That lawsuit involves a high-limit blackjack player who alleged someone spiked his drink with ketamine at MGM Grand in Las Vegas in December 2021. 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) -   Ron Baron, founder and CEO of Baron Capital, suggests that SpaceX has the potential for substantial returns following a future public offering, attributing this prospect primarily to Elon Musk and emerging space-related business ventures. Good to Know Baron indicated that SpaceX submitted a filing for an initial public offering in April. Ron Baron estimated the IPO valuation might be in the range of $1.5 trillion to $1.75 trillion. Baron projects that SpaceX's value could escalate to $10 trillion, $20 trillion, or potentially $30 trillion within a decade to 15 years. Baron perceives SpaceX as transcending a mere rocket enterprise. He believes that reusable spacecraft, Starlink, demands for artificial intelligence, and potential space-based data centers could collectively contribute to a significantly higher valuation. He stated: “Therefore, when it goes public, I'm uncertain if the valuation will be $1.5 trillion or $1.75 trillion, or perhaps slightly higher. Regardless of its initial public valuation, I anticipate that the company will be valued at $10 trillion, $20 trillion, or $30 trillion over the subsequent 10 to 15 years. And my estimate might even be quite conservative; it could be significantly higher than that.” Elon Musk And Reusable Rockets Baron largely attributed SpaceX's growth potential to Elon Musk. He noted that Musk revolutionized the economics of the space industry by championing reusable rockets, a concept other companies had no incentive to pursue as it would diminish the need for new hardware :“What truly empowered this company? It's him [Elon Musk]. He conceived the notion of launching and reusing a rocket, something unprecedented. No other rocket company showed interest in this, as it would inevitably reduce the demand for new rockets. Consequently, no one wished to undertake this. “And it was consistently deemed impossible. They claimed it was impossible because no one had attempted it, and even when attempts were made, no one succeeded. This innovation is what made everything possible, including Starlink.” The Falcon 9 provided SpaceX with a reusable rocket platform, while Starlink introduced a satellite internet service for both consumers and businesses. Baron now envisions an additional potential development: space-based data centers. Terrestrial data centers require significant power and water resources. Baron suggested that space could present an alternative cost model, utilizing sunlight for energy and radiators for cooling. He commented:“Once that was established, and with the Falcon 9 [reusable spacecraft] now available… “…we then realized there's a demand for space data centers, as opposed to operating data centers on our planet where it's exceedingly challenging… …with water scarcity and electricity issues. In space, you don't require cooling, primarily, provided you have massive radiators. “And then electricity, which represents a substantial expense, is also unnecessary because you're harnessing the sun. Essentially, you gain access to free electricity and free cooling once you are in space.” 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) -   Hackers are deploying TCLBanker, a Windows trojan linked to compromised Microsoft installation packages, to infiltrate banking, fintech, and cryptocurrency platforms. Key Insights TCLBanker tracks access to 59 specific financial services. The malware can propagate via WhatsApp and Microsoft Outlook. Fake overlay interfaces capture login credentials, PINs, phone numbers, and other sensitive information. Discovered by Elastic Security Labs, the trojan is believed to have evolved from the earlier Maverick and Sorvepotel malware families. According to BleepingComputer, this campaign primarily targets users in Brazil, where the malware monitors browser activity for interactions with selected financial applications and websites. Unlike passive threats, TCLBanker actively scans the browser address bar every second—rather than waiting for accidental visits—and immediately initiates a WebSocket connection to a command-and-control server upon detecting a targeted platform. This grants attackers remote system access as soon as a user logs into one of the compromised services. Fake Interfaces and Full System Control Enable Sophisticated Attacks The real danger lies in the extensive control TCLBanker provides to threat actors. Operators can remotely view live screen feeds, take snapshots, record keystrokes, intercept clipboard data, execute shell commands, explore file systems, and manipulate input devices—including keyboard and mouse controls. This level of access makes the malware especially hazardous for online banking, digital wallets, and fintech applications. During an active session, attackers can steal copied wallet addresses, entered passwords, or one-time authentication codes. In addition to surveillance capabilities, TCLBanker employs deceptive overlay windows designed to mimic legitimate prompts such as login forms, PIN entry screens, bank support wait pages, Windows Update notifications, and loading progress bars. Despite varying appearances, the underlying objective remains consistent: extract confidential account details while maintaining the illusion of normal operation. Prior to launching its full attack sequence, the trojan verifies system-specific attributes including timezone settings, keyboard layout, and regional locale. These checks help determine whether the infected device aligns with the intended geographic focus of the campaign. A further complication stems from its propagation mechanism. TCLBanker contains built-in worm functionality that allows it to autonomously spread through trusted communication channels like WhatsApp and Outlook, enabling attackers to infiltrate new systems via platforms already familiar to users. 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) -   Oklahoma has classified online sweepstakes casinos and social sportsbook products as illegal under the state's gambling laws after lawmakers successfully overrode Gov. Kevin Stitt’s veto and enacted Senate Bill 1589. Key Facts The Oklahoma Senate voted 34 to 10 in favor of overriding the governor's veto. The House of Representatives approved the override with a vote of 68 to 19. Operators, suppliers, geolocation firms, promoters, and affiliates may face felony charges under the new law. The legislation strengthens Oklahoma’s stance against dual-currency gaming by prohibiting mobile platforms that resemble slot machines, lottery games, bingo, or other forms of gambling when players can use both free tokens and real money coins. Governor Stitt had opposed SB 1589 due to its inclusion of criminal penalties. Although the bill had already passed earlier in the legislative session, lawmakers reconvened on Thursday and met the two-thirds majority requirement needed to override his veto, after which it was submitted to the Secretary of State. Social Sportsbooks Lose Another State Route The ban extends beyond traditional sweepstakes casino games to include sweepstakes-based sportsbooks—apps that mimic the appearance and functionality of established platforms like FanDuel or DraftKings but operate under an alternative monetization model.This development is particularly significant in Oklahoma, where legal sports betting remains unavailable. A tribal-backed proposal for sports wagering failed to pass the Senate in April, and another legislative effort in the House also did not advance. As a result, Oklahoma joins 10 other states without any form of legalized sports betting. In contrast, land-based gambling is widely permitted across the state, with more than 100 casinos operating primarily through federally recognized tribal agreements. Tribal gaming leaders supported the sweepstakes prohibition because current compacts ensure that authorized gambling activities remain under tribal jurisdiction. Under SB 1589, companies involved in prohibited sweepstakes operations could be charged with a Class C2 felony, carrying potential fines ranging from $500 to $2,000 and up to 30 days in jail. The law applies broadly across the entire business ecosystem, not just to direct operators of casino or sportsbook apps. The enactment of SB 1589 was part of a broader legislative showdown at the state Capitol. In addition to this bill, Stitt vetoed over 30 pieces of legislation, including HB 4432, which would have allowed certain gambling losses to be deductible for tax purposes. Lawmakers also overturned that veto. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Hard Rock Bet has reached a significant milestone in its plans to enter the Ontario online sports betting and iGaming market after being registered by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario. Good to Know The AGCO granted Hard Rock Bet its Ontario iGaming registration on Thursday. The brand must still finalize a commercial agreement with iGaming Ontario before it can launch. Ontario is poised to become Hard Rock Bet’s first Canadian market. While Hard Rock Bet currently operates in 10 U.S. states, the Seminole Tribe-owned sportsbook and online casino has yet to establish a presence in Canada. Ontario now stands as its most likely initial entry point north of the border, though the platform has not yet gone live. The AGCO’s official registry confirms the registration. However, provincial regulations also mandate that operators enter into a commercial agreement with iGaming Ontario, the agency responsible for overseeing legal private-sector iGaming in the province. Ottawa Casino Strengthens Hard Rock’s Canadian Presence The online licence follows the opening of the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Ottawa last year—a $350 million development that establishes the company’s first land-based footprint in Canada. This physical venue could serve as a bridge to connect casino patrons with Hard Rock Bet’s upcoming digital sportsbook and online casino offerings. This integrated approach gives Hard Rock Bet a more cohesive local identity compared to purely digital competitors. Ontario players may soon encounter the same brand across retail entertainment, casino gaming, and online platforms, while the Ottawa location could draw additional visitors through cross-promotion with its digital services. The Seminole Tribe of Florida, which owns Hard Rock, has previously signaled interest in expanding into Canada’s online gambling sector. Last year, its digital division was positioned to acquire PointsBet’s Canadian operations as part of a broader takeover of the Australian bookmaker, though that transaction ultimately fell through. Now, Hard Rock Bet has secured its own route into the Ontario market. Alberta may emerge as the brand’s next Canadian destination. The province is set to launch a competitive sports betting and iGaming market on July 13, offering private operators another regulated jurisdiction beyond Ontario. Currently, Ontario and Alberta are the only Canadian provinces with competitive iGaming frameworks that permit private operators to obtain licences and legally accept wagers under provincial oversight. 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) -   Rhode Island is expanding its online sports betting market by approving a second operator, ending years of having only one digital sportsbook available in the state. Good to Know Bally’s secured the second Rhode Island online sportsbook licence over BetRivers. Sportsbook Rhode Island, operated by IGT, has been the sole approved online platform since 2019. Bally’s plans to launch its service in November, following the expiration of IGT's exclusivity period. Bally’s has been granted a license for online sports betting in Rhode Island, as reported by NBC 10 WJAR. This decision introduces a new brand to the state’s mobile wagering landscape and marks the end of a single-operator model that began when online betting launched in 2019. Rush Street Gaming, the owner of BetRivers, also submitted an application. However, no other companies participated in the process, according to Michael O’Rourke, deputy director of the Rhode Island Lottery, who told NBC 10: “There was a thorough review process.“We had hoped for greater participation, but ultimately no additional applicants came forward.” Bally’s Strengthens Its Position in Rhode Island Betting Bally’s already maintains a significant presence in Rhode Island’s sports betting sector. The company operates both retail sportsbooks located within the state’s casinos and previously captured 17% of total sportsbook revenue under the existing agreement with IGT. Under the prior arrangement, IGT retained 32% of revenue, while Rhode Island government received 51% through gaming taxes—the highest sports betting tax rate in the United States. This high rate likely discouraged major operators like FanDuel and DraftKings from entering the market. With its new licence, Bally’s will now receive 49% of revenue from its own online sportsbook, while the state continues to collect 51%, according to NBC 10. Although final contract details are pending, Bally’s is scheduled to go live in November when the current IGT exclusivity agreement concludes. Patti Doyle, spokesperson for Bally’s, stated: “Bally’s is delighted to have been awarded a second sports betting licence by the State of Rhode Island. We appreciate the trust and confidence placed in us to deliver a top-tier product—designed for scalability, innovation, and meeting the evolving needs of today’s bettors—which will contribute additional revenue to support Rhode Island taxpayers.” The state opened applications late last year, with operators required to submit their proposals by February. The lottery commission viewed increased competition as a means to retain more betting activity within Rhode Island rather than losing customers to nearby Massachusetts sportsbooks. Bally’s will operate its online sportsbook in Rhode Island for at least five years, with an option to extend for another five-year term. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   The NCAA has determined that former Abilene Christian basketball player Airion Simmons breached sports betting integrity regulations, resulting in his permanent ineligibility under NCAA guidelines. Key Facts Airion Simmons and two other Abilene Christian players are alleged to have conspired with a bettor to intentionally lose a March 2024 basketball game. Simmons subsequently informed NCAA enforcement officials about a separate bettor who had approached him regarding fixing the outcome of the game. Federal prosecutors charged Simmons in January as part of a broader sports betting probe involving 20 individuals. According to the NCAA, Simmons was provided with cash connected to the alleged scheme; however, he did not compensate the other student-athletes involved. One of those athletes later reported the incident to the NCAA, which initiated the enforcement review. The NCAA released its ruling on Friday. Reinstatement for Simmons would require support from an NCAA member institution, though permanent ineligibility significantly complicates this possibility. The NCAA stated:“While the Committee on Infractions does not impose penalties on student-athletes who violate NCAA rules, their involvement in such violations carries consequences. Student-athletes found in violation are ineligible and may only be reinstated with the assistance of an NCAA school.” Federal Case Highlights Broader Concerns Over College Betting The case against Simmons falls within a larger federal investigation into collegiate sports betting. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania indicted 20 people in January. The NCAA has already imposed sanctions on Will Richardson and Elijah Gray, former Fordham players, and Simeon Cottle, a former Kennesaw State athlete. As legal sports wagering expands across the United States, concerns over college sports integrity have grown. Since 2023, the NCAA has urged state regulators to restrict high-risk college gambling markets—including prop bets on individual players and first-half totals—citing increased risks to student-athletes, officials, and game integrity. Following the January indictments, the NCAA reiterated its call for stricter state laws and oversight to better safeguard competitions.NCAA president Charlie Baker commented: “The Association remains committed to aggressively pursuing sports betting violations in college athletics through a comprehensive integrity monitoring program covering more than 22,000 events. However, we continue to need the remaining states and regulatory bodies to remove threats to integrity so we can better protect athletes and leagues from risks posed by predatory bettors.” 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) -   LuckyCasino has initiated compensation for Dutch players who gambled on its platform prior to the introduction of online gambling regulations in the Netherlands. Former LuckyCasino customers were notified via email about receiving refunds from their accounts, though no details were provided regarding how the amounts were calculated. Recipients must either already have or create a OneCasino account and log in to claim the offer. Additionally, if former LuckyCasino players need to submit immigration documentation to verify their identity before receiving payments into a bank account, onechrist.com stated, “the payment provider will not respond to queries about this.” This marks the first instance in history where an online gaming company has proactively reached out to players to issue refunds before regulatory oversight was established. Numerous settlements have occurred as a result of lawsuits filed against these companies. So far, rulings have largely favored players in each case, with several cases continuing through the courts. Currently, legal proceedings at the Supreme Court of the Netherlands are underway to address key questions about gambling contracts made before regulation. Earlier this year, the attorney general advised the Dutch Supreme Court not to declare all gambling contracts void but ruled that players remain eligible for repayment under certain conditions, including when the gaming company failed to fulfill its duty of care toward its players. 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) -   Polymarket has launched access to the U.S. exchange on iOS, marking a significant milestone after a more than six-month waitlist period for entry into the American market. Previously, U.S. users could only access the app through invitation-only channels. The release of this iOS app now allows U.S. Apple users to participate in trading markets directly via the platform, following their placement on a waitlist. The Android version of the app has not yet been announced. In July 2025, Polymarket acquired QCEX, a CFTC-licensed exchange, which enabled the company to operate within the U.S. market under established regulatory guidelines. Following a settlement with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission in 2022 over the provision of unregistered derivatives, Polymarket was barred from U.S. operations and fined $1.4 million. A major step in its return to the U.S. market was the acquisition of futures commission merchant status, permitting the offering of event contracts domestically. However, the timeline for re-entering the American market has extended beyond initial expectations. Throughout this period, Polymarket has remained active by maintaining strong trade volumes through international users who accessed the platform via VPNs. The company continued to offer trading opportunities during recent high-profile events such as March Madness and The Masters by allowing users to engage through its international accounts. Industry data indicates ongoing growth in prediction markets across the United States, with millions of users already participating in event-based prediction betting and traditional sports wagering. 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 has announced the establishment of the largest independent research centre for research into gambling-related harm, which will be funded through the statutory gambling levy. Announced by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), the new Gambling Harms Research UK (GHR-UK) Evidence Centre aims to address long-standing gaps in evidence that have limited policy, prevention and treatment efforts. The centre will be funded through the gambling levy administered by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI). £22.1 million has been made available for this centre to be operational in 2025–26. The centre is led by a consortium from Glasgow, Sheffield, Swansea Universities, and King’s College London. It is estimated that harmful gambling results in approximately £1.4 billion in annual costs for the UK, with additional social costs such as implications for mental health, and criminal justice systems. In addition, the centre will ensure that individuals with lived experience are a priority in all research, with campaigner Martin Jones being appointed to ensure that the research conducted reflects the harms of gambling in real life in areas such as suicide, financial distress and algorithmic risk. It was also made clear that the GHR-UK Evidence Centre will also be free from industry influence through governance arrangements established to safeguard the integrity of the research. The launch of the centre coincides with a broader shift in gambling policy across the UK including new scrutiny of gambling advertising and the creation of a new cross-agency gambling task force to enhance the enforcement of illegal gambling with a focus on payment, advertising and cross-agency collaboration. 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.