(AsiaGameHub) -   Aristocrat Leisure has set a goal to achieve A$1 billion in annual Interactive revenue by FY29, following continued progress across its digital operations in the first half of FY26. For the six months ending 31 March, revenue from continuing operations amounted to A$3.03 billion, slightly lower than the prior year. Profit comparisons were affected by the sale of Plarium Global, which was divested by Aristocrat’s subsidiary Pixel United to Modern Times Group in February 2025. Despite softer year-on-year revenue performance, Aristocrat highlighted significant advances in its Interactive segment, driven by growth in iLottery, expanded content offerings, platform technology improvements, investments in operational scale, and the integration of AI for enhanced efficiency. Trevor Croker, CEO of Aristocrat, noted that momentum in the Interactive division continues to strengthen, with recent leadership changes, including the appointment of Dylan Slaney last year, contributing positively. In H1, Aristocrat’s Gaming division remained the largest revenue contributor, rising 4.9% (to $1.96 billion) and supporting the installation of over 2,000 new gaming units across North America. Product Madness saw a decline of 10.6%, falling to $805.6 million; however, the company reported improved social casino bookings and strong performances from key brands such as Lightning Link, Cashman Casino, and Heart of Vegas. Interactive revenue held steady at $262 million, though it grew by 3.9% on a constant currency basis. According to Aristocrat, gains in iLottery expansion and broader content operations in North America offset losses from the company’s exit from the white label market. Pre-tax profits rose sharply by 44.5% to $1.12 billion, while net profit from continuing operations increased by 56.3% to $798.5 million. However, total net profit decreased due to impacts from discontinued operations and unfavorable foreign exchange movements compared to the previous 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) -   According to LatAm General Manager Diana Otalora, Stake is investigating further opportunities for growth throughout Latin America after recently entering the Mexican market. This month, Stake commenced operations in the Mexican gambling sector through an official partnership with Uno Capali, secured via a SEGOB grant. The operator had already moved into Colombia, Peru, and Brazil in 2023, making Mexico the fourth regulated country for Stake in the region. Otalora stated that Latin America remains a primary region for Stake's strategic growth. As regulations across various markets develop, the company will monitor new potential countries for entry. The Mexican market possesses key attributes for Stake's growth, including a strong sports culture, a sizable population, and a fast-expanding digital economy in the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In every Latin American country it enters, Stake intends to employ a localized strategy, tailoring its approach to each nation's regulatory framework and how its players interact with sports. Otalora emphasized that local and international sponsorships will continue to be vital for building the Stake brand in Latin America. Currently, Stake sponsors Everton F.C. and served as the title sponsor for the Stake F1 Team Kick Sauber. 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, now rebranded as “bragg,” reported that its games-first approach continued to build traction in Q1 2026 as losses narrowed and full-year guidance was upheld. Revenue for the quarter ending 31 March came to €25.7 million, compared with €25.5 million in Q1 2025. Growth remained measured, yet bragg noted stronger profitability stemming from higher-margin proprietary titles and operational efficiencies. CEO Matevž Mazij said the company’s solid execution during the quarter has positioned the planned acquisition of Drayton International as a potentially transformative fit with Bragg’s long-term strategy. Brazil ranked among Bragg’s strongest markets for the period, supported by the recent onset of formal regulation, with revenue of €2.9 million, up 33.3% year on year. Malta became the company’s top revenue-generating region at €5.8 million, while turnover in the Netherlands declined following new tax rules. Revenue from US offerings fell 12.1% to €2.5 million, mainly due to the absence of a one-off project with Caesars Entertainment recorded in Q1 2025. Recurring sales of Bragg’s proprietary products rose 7.1%. The company sharply cut its quarterly loss, trimming the net deficit by 53% from €2.6 million to €1.2 million. On a currency-adjusted basis, the net loss stood at €885 thousand versus €4.1 million in the same quarter last year. Bragg reaffirmed its full-year guidance for calendar 2026 at €97 million to €104.5 million in revenue and adjusted EBITDA of €16 million to €19 million. Alongside the earnings update, bragg unveiled refreshed branding, dropping “Gaming Group” to reflect a sharper focus on technology and gaming. 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) -   AffPapa is pleased to announce that 100HP will participate in the AffPapa iGaming Awards 2026 as a Category Sponsor for the "Affiliate Network of the Year" nomination. 100HP is an iGaming solutions provider dedicated to developing products that act as growth tools for operators, aggregators, and affiliate teams. The company specializes in crash and instant games, integrating mobile-first development with growth-oriented mechanics designed to enhance retention, engagement, and return on investment. Its platform supports over 100 currencies and more than 30 languages, while offering seamless integration, flexible customization options, and scalable infrastructure tailored to global markets. 100HP shared its thoughts on the sponsorship: Operating at the intersection of mobile gaming and online gambling, 100HP helps operators and partners connect with new audiences through mobile-first real-money experiences. We are thrilled to join the AffPapa iGaming Awards as a sponsor and become part of a community that unites industry professionals committed to authentic partnerships, sustainable growth, and long-term value. Events like AffPapa create valuable opportunities for networking, business expansion, and knowledge exchange across the iGaming ecosystem, and we are proud to contribute to it. In celebration of its 5th anniversary, the AffPapa iGaming Awards 2026 will feature this year's "The Test of Time" theme along with four exclusive categories aimed at recognizing outstanding achievements and leadership. The awards ceremony will be held on May 20, coinciding with the final day of the AffPapa Conference Madrid, where more than 1,500 affiliates, operators, and B2B providers will gather. Yeva Avagyan, Head of Commercial at AffPapa, commented: We are delighted to welcome 100HP as a Category Sponsor of the AffPapa iGaming Awards 2026. Their emphasis on scalable products, player engagement strategies, and operator growth aligns with the innovative trajectory of our industry. We appreciate their support for the "Affiliate Network of the Year" category. Reserve your place at the AffPapa iGaming Awards 2026 by visiting the official website. 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) -   Esportes Gaming Brasil (EGB)—the parent company behind the Esportes da Sorte, Onabet, and Lottu brands—has named Andréa Curral as its new Marketing Director. Boasting over 17 years of expertise in branding, media, communications, and consumer experience, the executive will now oversee the company’s positioning strategies, marketing campaigns, and sponsorship efforts during a period of consolidation and growth in Brazil’s regulated market. Andréa will manage the group’s brand development, media relations, communications, campaign execution, and proprietary projects divisions. Her role also includes strategic oversight of the group’s sponsorship portfolio, which features partnerships with clubs like Corinthians, Ceará, Ferroviária, and Náutico, as well as major cultural events supported by the company. This appointment underscores the group’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its institutional and operational capabilities, as it continues to expand investments in technology, user experience, and brand growth within the gaming and entertainment sector. Having previously held roles at Discovery, Warner Bros., and Privalia, Andréa has built a career leading high-complexity operations and integrated projects across branding, performance, consumer experience (UX), and brand reputation. For Andréa Curral, the core challenge is to deepen the connections between the brand, business goals, and audience experience. Andréa said: Taking on the marketing leadership role for a group with EGB’s relevance and growth trajectory is an opportunity to create projects with real, tangible impact. Our focus will be on developing strategies that expand brand visibility, strengthen audience relationships, and support the company’s consistent growth. Andréa holds a Social Communication degree from FAAP, a postgraduate qualification in Project and Portfolio Management from Universidade Anhembi Morumbi, and an MBA in Digital Business from FIAP. Throughout her career, she has led multidisciplinary teams and participated in organizational transformation and operational integration processes within the media and technology sectors. 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) -   Okada Manila reported a 17% decline in first-quarter gaming revenue compared to the same period last year, as parent company Universal Entertainment Corp highlighted ongoing challenges in the Philippine casino market. Key Facts Okada Manila’s Q1 casino GGR fell 17.2% year-on-year to approximately PHP6.47 billion. VIP revenue dropped by 19% due to a lower win rate. Tiger Resort and PhilWeb have introduced the Okada Play online gaming platform. Okada Manila is now prioritizing its online gaming strategy. Universal Entertainment noted that rising travel costs—partly linked to the Middle East situation—have made it more difficult for certain guests to visit the resort in person, prompting a greater focus on expanding Philippine online gaming services. This announcement followed PhilWeb Corp’s confirmation of the launch of Okada Play in collaboration with Tiger Resort, Leisure and Entertainment Inc., a subsidiary of Universal Entertainment that operates Okada Manila. First Quarter Hit by VIP Weakness and Rising Costs In the first three months of 2026, Okada Manila generated casino GGR of nearly PHP6.47 billion (about $108.1 million), marking a 17.2% decrease from the previous year, although it increased by 9.1% compared to the fourth quarter of 2025.Universal Entertainment stated: “We recognise that the gaming market in Entertainment City, Manila, Philippines, remains in a period of adjustment,” “Partly due to the situation in the Middle East, the market as a whole continues to contract.” VIP revenue declined by 19% year-on-year to around PHP1.44 billion, with Universal Entertainment attributing the drop to a lower win rate. Mass-market table revenue fell 24.2% to PHP2.30 billion, while gaming machine revenue decreased 8.9% to PHP2.73 billion.Competitive pressures to attract mass-market players have also intensified, driving up customer acquisition costs, according to Universal Entertainment: “Against the backdrop of structural changes in the VIP market, fierce competition with rivals to acquire mass-market customers continues, driving up customer acquisition costs,” Despite these headwinds, the integrated resort segment remained profitable. Universal credited improved performance to lower fixed costs, reduced selling, general and administrative expenses, decreased depreciation following an asset revaluation in the prior fiscal year, and modifications to the Okada Manila loyalty programme. The company anticipates increased competition in Philippine gaming throughout 2026 and warned that the impact from the Middle East situation may extend beyond the second quarter. As a result, growth in online casino operations is expected to become a more critical growth avenue for Okada Manila 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) -   The Lodge Card Club located in Round Rock, Texas, will resume operations on May 26 at 9 a.m., two months after a state raid shuttered the poker room. Good to Know Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission agents raided The Lodge Card Club in March. A Williamson County Grand Jury ultimately found insufficient evidence to file a criminal indictment. Poker operations will resume May 26, while Frank & Margie’s will open its doors May 16. The first poker event following the reopening will be a $50 no-limit hold’em tournament at 10:15 a.m. on May 26. Two additional low-buy-in events are planned for the same day, letting members quickly return to live poker as the World Series of Poker launches in Las Vegas. The club announced the news on Tuesday via Twitter/X, stating: “Welcome back home Lodge members.” Welcome back home Lodge members. The grand reopening is May 26th at 9am pic.twitter.com/YYLiMaPhgQ — Lodge Card Club (@LodgePokerClub) May 12, 2026 Round Rock Poker Room Set to Resume Operations The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission shut down The Lodge in March, citing money laundering and illegal gambling allegations. State authorities also froze assets connected to the club. This case shifted in April when a Williamson County Grand Jury declined to indict the property owners. Without a criminal indictment, The Lodge now plans to bring back staff, players, and regular poker games. The reopening will also assist players who still had chips at the club during the raid. Those players are expected to receive their payouts once operations restart. Several familiar aspects of the business will return as well. The “Poker at the Lodge” livestream, which has nearly 240,000 YouTube subscribers, is anticipated to resume after poker operations restart in Round Rock. Food service will look updated. Odds Bar & Bistro is being replaced by Frank & Margie’s, an Italian-American restaurant opening May 16, ahead of the poker room’s reopening. The company also operates a Lodge card club in San Antonio. This location was not raided and stayed open during the Round Rock shutdown. 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) -   Individuals affected by the AirBit Club crypto Ponzi scheme now have a potential avenue to recoup losses after the US Justice Department launched a compensation procedure linked to forfeited assets. Good to Know The DOJ indicates that over $400 million in forfeited assets may be used to reimburse qualifying victims. AirBit Club was promoted as a cryptocurrency mining and trading venture offering assured profits. RCB Fund Services will reach out to identified victims regarding petition submissions. The Justice Department stated that the United States has seized more than $400 million in assets tied to AirBit Club. These assets consist of real estate, US dollars, and cryptocurrency obtained from the scheme. AirBit Club operators presented the enterprise as a cryptocurrency mining and trading platform. Participants were assured of guaranteed returns, although prosecutors later characterized the operation as a Ponzi scheme. DOJ Opens AirBit Club Recovery Process The compensation initiative followed sentencing in 2023 of several individuals linked to AirBit Club. Among them were co-founders Pablo Renato Rodriguez and Gutemberg Dos Santos, promoters Cecilia Millan and Karina Chairez, and attorney Scott Hughes.“To date, the United States has forfeited over $400 million in assets that are now available to compensate eligible victims for their qualifying losses. Victims who have already shared their details with the FBI or U.S. Attorney’s Office will be contacted by the remission administrator, RCB Fund Services, LLC, (RCB) to submit a petition,” the DOJ stated. Those who previously supplied information to the FBI or the US Attorney’s Office are expected to be contacted by RCB Fund Services, which will manage petition processing through the remission procedure. Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department Criminal Division remarked: “The defendants exploited the rising interest in virtual currency to advance the scheme and attract additional victims. The criminal convictions and substantial asset recoveries achieved by prosecutors and law enforcement partners have allowed the Department to initiate this meaningful victim compensation effort.” 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 United Kingdom has launched a new independent research centre dedicated to gambling-related harm, with levy funding allocated for evidence-building, prevention efforts, and policy-focused work. Key Details to Know The Gambling Harms Research UK Evidence Centre will receive £22.1 million in funding for the 2025-2026 period. UKRI will finance the centre using 20% of the statutory national Gambling Levy. The Universities of Glasgow, Sheffield, Swansea, and King’s College London will lead the centre’s work. The new Gambling Harms Research UK Evidence Centre launches after years of widespread concern over weak evidence, industry influence, and limited research capacity in gambling harm policy. A consortium from the Universities of Glasgow, Sheffield, Swansea, and King’s College London will operate the centre. DCMS announced the launch on Thursday, while UK Research and Innovation will deliver funding via a portion of the government-run statutory levy. Independent Evidence Is the Top Priority Funding from the levy gives the project full scale and capacity from day one. UKRI will use its 20% share of the Gambling Levy to support the centre, which equals £22.1 million for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. Earlier in 2025, the levy also allocated £25.4 million to gambling harm prevention organizations.The centre will research gambling harm across a range of areas: public health, policy, sport, online gambling, video-game gambling, financial data, algorithms, and structural risk factors. It will also coordinate 19 Innovation Partnerships under the GHR-UK framework. Professor Heather Wardle, director of the centre and professor of gambling research and policy at the University of Glasgow, stated: “For far too long, gambling research has been under-resourced and overlooked. “New funding through the levy and UKRI marks a vital reset for the field, strengthening the quality and scale of gambling harms research and ensuring policy is driven by rigorous, independent evidence.”UKRI reports that harmful gambling costs the UK economy around £1.4 billion every year. It has also linked gambling harm to increased public health pressure, higher criminal justice costs, depression, and suicide. Independence stands as the core of the project. In April 2025, gambling harm researchers warned Parliament about past industry influence over research funding and priority-setting. Wardle also told the health and social care committee that earlier research often reflected research questions and viewpoints shaped by the gambling sector itself. Lived experience of harm will also guide the centre’s work. Martin Jones, a campaigner and charity worker who has experienced a gambling-related suicide in his family, will serve as the centre’s lived-experience lead. He said: “Research is not just an abstract intellectual exercise that exists in isolation. “It is, and should be, closely connected to the real gambling harms that affect real people. “We need to do far more to prevent these harms, and coordinating top-tier research will support this goal, especially as we explore more complex areas like suicide, algorithms, and financial data.”The centre is part of a broader UKRI Research Programme focused on gambling. That programme already includes 32 rapid evidence reviews, 19 Innovation Partnerships, and four UKRI policy fellows. UKRI also plans to allocate additional funding for topics such as the overlap between gambling and video gaming. 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) -   Online gambling in Belgium has surged since 2018, despite the implementation of strict advertising restrictions by licensed private operators. Key Facts According to Sciensano, 14.8% of Belgians now gamble online, compared to 7.9% in 2018. 52.6% of Belgians continue to encounter gambling advertisements at least once a week. BAGO notes that both lottery advertising and illegal gambling sites are still able to reach players. The Sciensano Health Interview Survey 2023-2024 reveals a discrepancy between government policy and actual player behavior. Although Belgium imposed significant ad restrictions on licensed private operators in 2023, online gambling participation has nearly doubled over the past five years. The Belgian Association of Gaming Operators (BAGO) is calling for more robust measures against unlicensed gambling platforms. The industry body argues that weekly exposure to gambling advertisements stems not only from regulated private companies but also from other sources beyond their control. Lottery Ads And Illegal Sites Continue To Reach Players Sciensano data shows that 31.9% of Belgians have engaged in gambling within the past year, while 8.0% do so on a weekly basis. Online gambling participation stands at 14.8% of the population, with the highest rate among individuals aged 25–34 at 20.2%. The survey also indicates that 2.6% of the overall population may be at risk of problem gambling using the short-form PGSI assessment; this figure rises to 7.7% among those who gambled within the last year. Gambling advertisements remain highly visible across various media channels. Weekly ad exposure was reported by 51.1% of respondents via television, 47.3% through websites and apps, and 46.4% via social media. Additional exposure occurred through street ads, retail displays, newspapers, and magazines. Licensed private gambling operators in Belgium are prohibited from placing ads on television, radio, newspapers, magazines, social media, email, postal mail, and SMS. Limited advertising opportunities persist through venue-based communications, operator websites, and certain search engine platforms. A ban on sports sponsorships took effect at the beginning of 2025. The National Lottery operates largely outside the scope of the Gambling Act. Sciensano reports indicate it remains the most popular form of gambling, used by 29.5% of Belgians—representing approximately 92% of all gamblers in the country. Crucially, lottery advertisements are still permitted across television, radio, and social media channels. BAGO emphasized that the 52.6% figure for weekly ad exposure “does not originate exclusively from licensed private operators.” The association explained that exposure is “also influenced by entities operating outside the regulatory framework, under transitional arrangements, or in violation of current rules.” Belgium also faces challenges from offshore gambling operators. These unlicensed sites frequently target users through social media, affiliate networks, and influencers, circumventing essential consumer protections such as EPIS self-exclusion tools, weekly deposit limits, age verification processes, and broader player safeguards applicable in the licensed market. This trend extends beyond Belgium’s borders. An analysis by the Italian Football Federation linked the 2018 Dignity Decree advertising ban to an estimated €25 billion annually in unregulated wagers. Similarly, a Dutch study published in 2024 found the size of the illegal gambling market grew from roughly 20% in 2021 to over 35% by late 2023 following stricter deposit and advertising regulations. In contrast, the United Kingdom has adopted a different approach. The UK Gambling Commission recently created a senior position focused on combating illegal markets, while the government allocated £26 million to enforcement efforts after research by the Betting and Gaming Council projected the UK’s black market would reach £16.6 billion in 2025. 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 former federal prosecutor in West Virginia has pleaded guilty to identity theft after prosecutors said she used stolen identities to open and profit from online gambling accounts. Good to Know Monica Dillon pleaded guilty to five counts of identity theft. Prosecutors said the conduct ran from January 2021 to January 2023. No online gambling or sports betting company was named in the case. US District Judge Kenneth E. Bell approved the guilty plea and pretrial diversion agreement on Tuesday. Bell, a judge from North Carolina, handled the case because Dillon spent nearly 20 years as an assistant US attorney in the Southern District of West Virginia. Under the agreement, Dillon avoids prison and must serve two years of probation through the US Probation Office. Without the deal, the charges carried a possible 20-year prison sentence and a $500,000 fine. Gambling Accounts At Center Of Fraud Case Prosecutors said Dillon used five stolen identities to gamble online between January 2021 and January 2023. She made at least $1,000 from three victim accounts, according to a fact sheet filed on April 22.Her restitution requirement is narrower. The plea agreement requires Dillon to pay $30,000 to one person, listed as “Victim 1.” Both online casino gambling and mobile sports betting are legal in West Virginia. Still, no licensed operator was named in the case, and a spokesman for the US Attorney office in the Southern District declined comment to iGB. The case carries an unusual angle because Dillon worked in law enforcement and government service for much of her career. Her LinkedIn profile says she advised the Federal Bureau of Prisons for three years before serving as an attorney in the Southern District from 2005 to 2025. Dillon also worked as deputy chief for the district white collar fraud team from 2021 to 2024. In that role, she said she led eight attorneys handling white collar fraud, health care fraud, environmental, tax, and civil rights prosecutions.Her West Virginia law licence was annulled by voluntary consent in January 2025 after the Office of Lawyer Disciplinary Counsel filed a petition in December 2024. Legal Newsline reported that the rule used for that petition works much like a plea deal, with Dillon acknowledging an investigation and potential charges she could not defend against. The case file does not explain how Dillon obtained the identities or why she used them for gambling accounts. She filed for bankruptcy in 2022, and Legal Newsline reported that case remains pending in federal court. In the plea agreement, Dillon also gave up her right to withdraw the plea if her sentence came in higher than expected. She conceded there was a “substantial likelihood” that incarceration could follow. 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) -   Michael Selig has drawn a clear line between licensed prediction markets and traditional sports betting, saying platforms such as Kalshi and Polymarket operate under a different model. Good to Know Michael Selig chairs the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. He said prediction markets and sportsbooks serve different purposes. His comments come as state gaming officials challenge federally licensed platforms. Selig now sits in a powerful position. He is the only current member of the CFTC board, which usually has five commissioners. That gives him added influence at a time when state gaming regulators and prediction market operators are clashing over sports event contracts. At the center of the fight sits a legal divide. Prediction platforms licensed by the CFTC operate under federal oversight, while sportsbooks answer to state gaming regulators. Federal law can override state law, leaving state officials with limited power unless federal intervention arrives. Selig Points To Markets Instead Of House Odds Selig told Axios that sports betting and prediction markets are “two separate things.” His argument starts with how each product treats users. He said:“They’re different models. The conventional sportsbooks and casinos are entertainment and they have a lot of authority to be able to kick people out when they keep winning. “When you go to the derivatives markets, that’s now allowed. You keep winning? Great. You take your earnings.” He also used Nate Silver as an example. Silver wrote in “On the Edge” that his betting account had been limited after he beat sportsbooks too often. Account limits can cap how much a bettor can wager, which also caps potential profit. Prediction platforms do not use the same approach for winning customers, according to Selig. He also argued that market pricing comes from real-time customer sentiment and supply and demand, rather than house-set sportsbook odds, noting:“What you’re seeing is markets versus entertainment. For those that want the discipline and integrity of a market, it’s a better model. For those that want entertainment, the casinos might be the model for them.” Kalshi and Polymarket remain central names in the wider prediction market debate. Some state officials have tried to block sports event contracts, while prediction operators have resisted those efforts and, in some cases, taken legal action. 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) -   New York's move toward legalizing online casinos is likely to be delayed for another year, as Senator Joseph Addabbo stated that the proposal does not have enough backing to pass before the June 4 legislative deadline. Key Points New York lawmakers are not expected to vote on online casino gaming before June 4. Sen. Joseph Addabbo said Gov. Kathy Hochul remains the main obstacle. Addabbo also wants New York to regulate prediction markets instead of banning them. Senator Joseph Addabbo, who leads the Senate Racing, Gaming and Wagering Committee, noted that an online gaming bill is unlikely to undergo a committee hearing or receive a floor vote in either the Senate or Assembly before lawmakers adjourn in Albany. The Senate and Assembly could potentially approve the measure, but Addabbo emphasized that this would be meaningless without support from Governor Hochul: “We could pass it in the Senate, we could pass it in the Assembly and then the governor would probably not sign it. So I’m not going to waste anyone’s time here.”A spokesperson for Hochul provided a more restrained response in an email to Gambling.com on Monday, May 11. Gordon Tepper stated that the governor “will review any legislation that passes” both chambers. Addabbo Maintains Focus on iGaming For New York to legalize any form of casino gaming, sports betting, or related gambling, full approval from both the Senate and Assembly is required before the bill can reach the governor. Currently, Addabbo sees no clear pathway for online casino gaming in 2026. However, he does not view the issue as whether New York will eventually legalize iGaming. Instead, he sees it as a matter of timing. Addabbo plans to continue advocating for online casino gaming each year until the state takes action. During a video interview with Gambling.com program “The Edge,” Addabbo also discussed prediction markets, sports betting taxes, and prop bets.Prediction markets played a significant role in his argument. Addabbo argued that New York should establish regulations for these markets rather than attempting to prohibit them. In his opinion, regulation would allow the state to collaborate with legitimate operators, generate revenue, and provide residents with a safer alternative. “Every year that goes by that we don’t regulate prediction markets gives me more ammunition and more data and more justification to regulate it in New York,” Addabbo remarked. Additionally, Addabbo opposed a ban on prop bets, pointing out that neighboring states already permit such wagers. He warned that a prohibition would encourage New Yorkers to bet outside the state or travel across state lines. For supporters of online casino gaming in New York, the primary challenge remains securing political support. While Addabbo can keep the iGaming bill active, its passage will likely depend on clearer endorsement from Hochul and broader consensus within the Legislature. 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) -   Rush Street Interactive is monitoring prediction markets, but the parent company of BetRivers prefers to keep discussions centered on other areas. CEO Richard Schwartz explained that competitors' focus on sports event contracts provides Rush Street with greater flexibility to expand its online casino offerings. Key Points Rush Street has not yet entered the prediction market sector. The company views the legalization of online casino as its most promising near-term opportunity. Alberta, Virginia, Maine, New York, and Illinois are among its top expansion priorities. Following closely behind is Alberta, where Rush Street anticipates joining over 30 operators when both sports betting and iGaming launch on July 13. The company revised its revenue guidance upward by $115 million and adjusted the midpoint by $20 million, while also forecasting a $10 million cost impact related to the launch and marketing efforts. Kyle Sauers, president of Rush Street, noted that lessons learned from Ontario will prove valuable, even amid a highly competitive market on day one. He stated: “We’ll remain flexible and consider additional investments if conditions in Alberta perform well. Thanks to our experience in Ontario, we believe we’re better prepared for this launch compared to our entry into Ontario—though it will certainly be competitive, as numerous operators are launching simultaneously.“We’re very enthusiastic about the Alberta opportunity.” Online Casino Takes Center Stage Rush Street perceives a strategic opening within U.S. politics. The emergence of prediction markets through Kalshi and Polymarket, along with similar products from FanDuel, DraftKings, and Fanatics, has introduced increased uncertainty regarding future sports betting revenues. Schwartz believes this environment strengthens the case for regulated online casino. “While others are preoccupied with their sports betting operations and must allocate significant financial resources and leadership attention to them, we’re concentrating on executing and innovating further in the casino-first space,” Schwartz remarked. “This actually gives us a strong advantage to help pass online casino legislation in certain states that fear losing perceived sports betting revenues and face uncertainty about that revenue stream’s future.” Virginia nearly approved iGaming in 2026 after legislative chambers passed bills, but disagreements between the House and Senate delayed final approval, pushing it to 2027. Nonetheless, Sauers still described Virginia as a “significant market” and likened its potential to Michigan, where Rush Street is “approaching a $300 million GGR run rate.”Maine already enacted online casino legalization in 2026, though litigation has temporarily stalled implementation. Rush Street intends to remain “actively involved” in the state once the legal challenge concludes. New York and Illinois continue to represent major objectives. Schwartz highlighted that federal Medicaid changes could prompt states to seek alternative tax sources, with online casino offering a proven solution. He added: “States such as New York and Illinois may see even larger surpluses in this sector, and they recognize that online casinos provide a reliable, substantial means of generating significant tax revenue. Consider Michigan—over the past five years, they’ve generated billions in revenue, representing a transformative contribution to all these states’ finances.” Rush Street continues to hold plans for entering prediction markets. Schwartz emphasized that while the company closely monitors the federally regulated landscape, it will only act when the opportunity aligns with its strategy: “For now, Rush Street remains on the sidelines regarding prediction market ventures, but we’ll never be unprepared. We continuously monitor developments and maintain readiness strategies. Should a suitable opportunity arise, we’ll move forward.” Player retention remains central to the casino strategy. Schwartz stressed that customers remain loyal when operators treat them respectfully, deliver enjoyable and unique experiences, and demonstrate genuine care in product development. 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) -   Ontario online gamblers now have one tool to block themselves from every provincially regulated betting, casino, and poker site in the province. Good to Know BetGuard is live in Ontario in English and French. Self exclusion takes about five minutes to complete. More than 75 regulated iGaming sites fall under the system. BetGuard went live Thursday morning through iGaming Ontario. The new self exclusion site lets Ontarians create an account, verify their identity, and remove access to all regulated online gambling platforms for longer periods. Once enrolled, a person cannot log in to existing accounts or open new ones with Ontario regulated operators. Those operators must also stop sending marketing to anyone on the BetGuard list. Ontario Tourism, Culture, and Gaming Minister Stan Cho said:“The Ontario government is committed to responsible gambling. As online gaming continues to grow in popularity, the launch of BetGuard is an important step forward in helping people play safely and responsibly across more than 75 regulated sites.” One Ban Across The Regulated Market Make the safer choice and play on sites offered by legal and regulated Operators in Ontario. Look for the iGaming Ontario logo, so you can #PlayWithConfidence. pic.twitter.com/o3UqL27P6i — iGaming Ontario (@iGamingOntario) April 12, 2023 Ontario already required each operator to offer self exclusion. However, a player blocked from one site could still use another. BetGuard closes that gap across more than 40 authorized operators and more than 70 sports betting, casino, and poker sites. iGaming Ontario CEO Joseph Hillier said: “BetGuard is designed with one simple principle in mind: If you need to take a break from the entire regulated iGaming market, you can. Player choice is key to the sustainability of our market, and that includes the choice to opt out.” The system uses real time API checks. Operators do not send their own self exclusion lists to BetGuard, and BetGuard does not share its full list back. Instead, operators can check whether a user appears in the system, then block logins, new registrations, and marketing. iGaming Ontario built BetGuard over more than a year with DataWorks Group, formerly IXUP, Integrity Compliance 360, and Ontario regulated operators. The design follows Australia BetStop program. The tool arrives in a large regulated market. Ontario operators have handled billions in wagers, while the province received about $262 million in tax revenue for the fiscal year ended March 31. Since 2018, Ontario has also spent more than $420 million on gambling education, awareness, and responsible gambling programs.Paul Burns, CEO of the Canadian Gaming Association, said the industry supports a central system. “It has been something the industry has been long looking and waiting for, and we are grateful, because this really delivers on the promise of regulated gaming. This is a real demonstration of what that means in terms of consumer protection.” BetGuard is the first tool of its kind in Canada. Alberta plans to open a competitive sports betting and iGaming market on July 13 and wants centralized self exclusion ready from day one. Hillier also wants BetGuard to cover all regulated gambling in Ontario later, including land based casinos, charitable gaming, and horse racing. Horse racing creates extra complexity because wagering falls under federal regulation. He added: “It’s really a matter of time and technical complexity.” 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 entered into a partnership with Serie A in the United States, expanding its prediction market offerings to include another top-tier soccer league. Good to Know Polymarket will serve as the exclusive U.S. platform for Serie A prediction markets. The agreement includes access to official Serie A data. Major League Soccer and La Liga are already partnered with Polymarket. Serie A has appointed Polymarket as its Regional Partner in the United States, granting the prediction market platform access to official league data and branding opportunities across U.S. media and digital outlets. This collaboration follows previous agreements between Polymarket and Major League Soccer and La Liga, which were established earlier this year. Rather than diversifying into other sports, Polymarket continues to focus on soccer, real-time fan engagement, and live match-based prediction markets. Serie A Expands Reach to U.S. Fans via Polymarket Lega Serie A views the United States as a key growth market, and Polymarket provides the league with a way to connect with younger audiences who seek more than just scores and highlights.Michele Ciccarese, marketing and commercial director of Lega Serie A, commented: “Our exclusive partnership with Polymarket as Regional Partner in the USA allows us to engage a new generation of fans through a platform that reflects evolving trends. It offers an interactive, real-time experience built on insights and participation, fully aligned with their expectations.” Shayne Coplan, founder and CEO of Polymarket, stated: “Prediction markets empower fans to actively interpret the game in real time, and our partnership with Serie A brings this innovative model to one of the world’s most popular leagues—especially at a time when interest in soccer is surging across America.” 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) -   Wisconsin has introduced new ethics guidelines for employees in the state's executive branch, as prediction markets expand across the United States. Key Points Gov. Tony Evers signed Executive Order #294 on Thursday. The order restricts the use of nonpublic government information in prediction markets. No insider trading cases involving state workers have been reported in Wisconsin. Gov. Tony Evers issued the order to safeguard public trust and prevent government staff from leveraging their positions for personal financial benefit. The rule does not prohibit all prediction market activities by state employees, but it prevents them from using confidential information to gain financially. Executive Order Addresses Use of Insider Information The order applies to all employees within Wisconsin’s executive branch of government. It also extends to individuals who assist spouses, family members, or others in benefiting from prediction market trades. The order states:“All Wisconsin state executive branch employees are strictly prohibited from disclosing or using any nonpublic information obtained due to their public service to personally profit from, avoid loss from, or assist another person or entity, including spouses and family members, in profiting or avoiding loss from participation in prediction markets. Any violation of this order may result in dismissal, referral to the Wisconsin Ethics Commission, or other appropriate sanctions and may be referred to law enforcement.” Wisconsin already required public officials to adhere to standards promoting transparency and integrity. Prediction markets have introduced a new concern because contracts can involve politics, policy, sports, economics, and other events where government workers may access information before it becomes publicly available. Evers stated: “Preserving public trust and confidence in our state government depends on transparency, accountability, integrity, and upholding the core principle of public service—that decisions must serve the public good and not the personal interests of any individual worker.”Prediction markets operate in every U.S. state. One survey found that 15% of Americans have purchased sports-related prediction contracts, indicating potential broader use in other areas as well. The Wisconsin order takes preventive action ahead of any confirmed issues. State officials have not identified any instances of insider trading or suspicious activity by government employees connected to prediction markets. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   A global overhaul of one of the most-played titles in the Stake Originals lineup brings a new graph crack animation, dynamic multiplier color transitions, an active player counter, and enhanced speed and reliability across all devices. Stake, the world’s leading online casino and sportsbook, has today unveiled a major worldwide update to its flagship Crash casino game—representing the next key development in the ongoing evolution of the Stake Originals portfolio. This upgrade introduces a revitalized visual presentation and a suite of performance enhancements for users. Crash has cultivated a strong international audience thanks to its straightforward yet thrilling gameplay format: players monitor a steadily increasing multiplier and must choose the optimal moment to cash out before it suddenly crashes. As one of the most iconic games within the Stake Originals collection, it plays a central role in defining the platform’s proprietary gaming identity. The latest iteration refines both the appearance and user experience of every round. The update features an updated visual design, including a redesigned graph crack animation that creates a more pronounced visual climax at the end of each round. The multiplier display now includes dynamic color gradients that shift in real time—starting with blue during early stages, transitioning through green and purple, and culminating in yellow as values climb higher. Additionally, a new on-screen player count shows how many participants remain active in each round, reinforcing a stronger sense of shared, live interaction. Cashout responsiveness has been optimized for quicker and more consistent input recognition during critical multiplier moments, resulting in a smoother overall experience. The update also ensures uninterrupted gameplay during backend deployment cycles, allowing Crash to run seamlessly while system improvements are implemented in the background. Enhanced game payload optimization and upgraded processing systems further reduce load times and increase stability—especially during peak usage periods—delivering a more dependable experience across every device. Stake’s Chief Marketing Officer, Akhil Sarin, stated: Crash embodies what makes a Stake Original special—fast-paced, socially engaging, and brimming with excitement. This update aims to deliver a crisper, more responsive version of a game fans already adore, while preserving everything that first drew them in. As one of Stake Casino’s most popular games, this update focuses on maintaining the core appeal that players cherish while refining every aspect around it. 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 May 11, Genius Sports filed a lawsuit against SportsCastr alleging infringement of patents related to real-time graphics and interactive overlays used during live sports broadcasts. The legal action was initiated in the Southern District of New York. The case centers on three patents originally developed by Second Spectrum, which Genius Sports acquired in 2021. The disputed patents cover technology utilized by PANDA Interactive in its "PANDA Studio" software, which integrates live analytical data, graphics, and interactive elements onto broadcast footage of sporting events. Genius Sports is pursuing a permanent injunction, treble damages for alleged willful patent infringement, and reimbursement of legal costs. The firm Kirkland & Ellis represents Genius Sports throughout this litigation. This latest legal move adds another chapter to an ongoing dispute between the two companies. In 2023, SportsCastr had previously filed a similar suit against Genius Sports and Sportradar over the same patents; all claims were mutually dismissed following a settlement reached in February 2026. 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) -   DATA.BET, a reputable provider of sportsbook solutions, is reporting a significant surge in esports betting activity. This trend, building on insights from the Sportsbook Report that indicated increasing player interest in less mainstream tournaments, is further validated by Q1 2026 results, which confirm the continued strong growth of this sector. The most recent performance data highlights: Growing demand within the market Efficient and well-managed trading operations Increased player engagement across all partner platforms Substantial revenue increases and positive commercial outcomes Esports demonstrated exceptional performance across all key metrics. When compared to Q1 2025, Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) almost doubled, and turnover saw a significant rise of 70.6%, bolstered by a notable improvement in margin efficiency. Player activity saw widespread strengthening, with the number of placed bets increasing by 33.2% and combo bets experiencing an even more substantial jump of 72.1%, indicating a clear shift towards more complex betting behaviors among users. The active player base expanded considerably, and the average size of single bets also grew, suggesting increased user confidence and deeper engagement. The growth in combo bets was further supported by recent enhancements to the user experience of our Single Page Application (iFrame), which now simplifies the creation of multiple bets and improves the presentation and display of available events. Additionally, higher-value bets originating from premium partner platforms significantly contributed to the increase in average bet size. Performance trends across major esports titles illustrate how player preferences and event schedules influenced the quarter. The four leading disciplines – CS2, Dota 2, League of Legends, and Valorant – all recorded robust double-digit growth in profit, turnover, bet counts, and active users. Niche disciplines collectively achieved an impressive 245% increase in profit compared to Q1 2025, underscoring the breadth of the company's esports offerings. This trend was initially identified during the preparation of the Sportsbook Report and continues to be a surprising factor for the broader market, which often underestimates the commercial potential of disciplines beyond the most established ones. Rainbow Six emerged as a particular success, driven by the introduction of new betting markets, including combined Total Over + Win and Win First Half + Win Map, alongside a significant expansion in match coverage. This discipline has found a strong audience in Latin America, where DATA.BET has solidified its position as a leading provider of sportsbook solutions. Rocket League continues to affirm its status as one of the most promising esports disciplines for betting, with even greater potential anticipated if official data coverage expands in the future. Despite Q4 2025 hosting the FIFAe World Cup, typically the year's premier event, Rocket League still achieved quarter-over-quarter growth, with turnover up 85.3%, bet counts rising 18.7%, and active players increasing by 50.1%. This was primarily fueled by the industry's most extensive and unique market offering, coupled with a 94% live coverage conversion rate. Between the regional VCT Kickoff and Masters Santiago, Riot Games introduced a new format, the Valorant EMEA Clash 2026, inviting teams that did not qualify for Santiago, as well as second-tier teams from regional Challenger leagues. By filling a gap in the tournament schedule, this event saw strong year-over-year growth across key metrics and became a significant driver of new player acquisition, with newcomers accounting for 68.6% of all new players and 55.4% of total bets placed. According to Bohdan Holovnov, Head of Esports at DATA.BET, this performance reflects strategic enhancements to products and trading operations that are aligned with player behavior: High margin efficiency has been a significant catalyst this quarter. Partners are increasingly recognizing the substantial commercial returns that esports can generate, which is encouraging them to scale up promotional campaigns and direct more traffic to this vertical. This, in turn, leads to more new users, increased turnover, and stronger margins. Simultaneously, we continue to provide the most extensive match and discipline coverage available in the market, and the impact of this is also evident in the rapid growth of combo bets across our partner platforms. Official data events saw a year-over-year increase of 5.2%, with the overall event calendar growing even more significantly to 10.8%, reinforcing the breadth of DATA.BET’s coverage. While top-tier events outperformed low-tier events considerably in terms of turnover, profit, and bet count, the volume of low-tier events also increased, particularly in CS2, as Valve’s restructured Major qualification system has led tournament organizers to schedule more new qualifying events. Bohdan Holovnov, Head of Esports at DATA.BET, added: Q1 of 2026 has established a new benchmark for the potential of esports betting. With GGR nearly doubling year over year, a player base expanding by over 56%, and increasingly sophisticated betting patterns, the vertical is maturing in precisely the right direction. We are heading into the remainder of 2026 with strong momentum, an expanding market portfolio, and partners who are consistently experiencing tangible commercial impact quarter after quarter. 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.