Category: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) - Hub88 has enhanced its aggregation platform through a fresh partnership with Black Lagoon Games. Under this agreement, the studio’s game library will be integrated into Hub88’s platform, granting its operator partners access to titles such as Casino Island, Casino Bar, Crown Supreme, and Cash Stacks. Hub88 specifically highlighted Black Lagoon’s Monster Mega Hit engine, characterizing it as a fully adjustable jackpot feature that enables universal player participation and offers potential payouts of 500,000x or greater. Jan Riedenfeldt, co-founder and Chief Commercial Officer at Black Lagoon Games, stated: “By leveraging Hub88, we are bringing the Monster Mega Hit experience—where a two-cent wager can result in historic wins—to the world’s most forward-thinking operators. Partnering with Hub88 is a natural progression in our goal to make significant wins accessible to everyone.” Hub88 Managing Director Ollie Castleman noted that the integration of the Monster Mega Hit engine serves as a significant draw as the company continues to bolster its aggregation services. “Collaborating with an innovator like Black Lagoon Games allows us to help operators maintain a competitive edge and remain appealing to their players,” Castleman remarked. “We are eager to collaborate with Black Lagoon and support the expansion of our valued network.” This month, the company has also secured similar content agreements with Games Inc and TaDa Gaming. The deal with TaDa Gaming includes the integration of their GiftCode and WinCard engagement tools, alongside a collection of localized casino games such as Fortune Gems 500, Gold Mine Express, Chicken Dash, and Fortune Zombie Lightning. Regarding the TaDa Gaming partnership, Jessica Inglott, Head of Supplier Relations at Hub88, commented: “We consistently seek to collaborate with suppliers that offer a blend of scale, quality, and a deep grasp of diverse player preferences. “TaDa Gaming’s robust localization expertise and their highly engaging game portfolio make them a significant addition to our platform.” 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) - PopOK Gaming is preparing to expand its footprint across Europe via a new strategic partnership with Tipico in Germany. As part of this collaboration, Tipico’s players in Germany can now access PopOK Gaming’s content portfolio. Karen Gulkanyan, Chief Executive Officer of PopOK Gaming, described the partnership as more than a mere box-ticking exercise, emphasizing that PopOK will combine its game development expertise with Tipico’s deep understanding of the German market and strong reputation among players. Tipico remains a market leader in Germany’s sports betting sector, and the group was acquired by Banijay Group in April 2026. Gulkanyan said: “Working with Tipico is important to us because of their position in the German market and the high standards they adhere to. “Germany is not an easy market to operate in, and that’s precisely why this collaboration matters. It reflects years of consistent behind-the-scenes work and marks a milestone where PopOK Gaming is ready to compete alongside Europe’s most established names.” The challenges Gulkanyan refers to are largely centered on the impact of the 2021 State Treaty on Gaming (GlüStV), which introduced new rules for monthly deposit limits at online casinos and a 5% stake-based tax on online operators. However, critics of the regulation have warned that these stringent measures have strengthened Germany’s black market for gaming. Despite this, PopOK remains optimistic about the partnership’s potential to grow its presence across Europe. Earlier this year, the company’s Head of Partner Management, Tsovinar Elchyan, spoke to iGaming Expert about the strategies PopOK uses to overcome challenges posed by stricter regulatory frameworks. Elchyan said: “We addressed these challenges by investing early in compliance, building flexible game frameworks, and focusing on product differentiation. “Strong communication with partners and faster internal processes also helped us stay agile in a rapidly changing market environment.” 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) - Authorities in Bangladesh are aiming to clamp down on gambling by replacing a law that has been in place for more than 150 years. According to local news outlet BSS News, Bangladesh’s Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has confirmed a plan to replace the obsolete Gambling Act of 1867 with a new law designed to curb both land-based and online gambling. Ahmed told reporters that the decision was made in response to the growing popularity of online betting and gaming, which now demands a more tech-focused legal framework. Speaking to journalists at the Bangladesh Secretariat Reporters Forum, he stated that the new law is currently in the final drafting stages and will be presented to the country’s parliament during its next session. The Home Minister provided few details on how the new legislation will go further than the existing Gambling Act, given that it already bans nearly all forms of gambling. Under the Cyber Security Ordinance 2025, anyone found operating or promoting online gambling can face up to two years in prison and a fine of up to $80,000. Despite this, gambling activity remains prevalent in Bangladesh, as indicated by policymakers’ push to update the law. Earlier this year, Ahmed pledged a ‘zero tolerance’ approach to gambling following concerns raised by opposition member of parliament Zainul Abdin Farroque, who represents the Noakhali-2 constituency. “To save the youth from ruin, the government has adopted a zero-tolerance policy,” said Ahmed, who promised that law enforcement agencies will conduct coordinated operations to dismantle networks linked to drugs and gambling. Last week, Bangladeshi Police arrested three men accused of being part of a syndicate involved in money laundering through online gambling platforms. Md Ala Uddin, 42, Shahadat Hossain, 32, and Md Sahab Uddin, 48, were all detained following raids that uncovered five mobile phones believed to be connected to illegal financial transactions, along with credit cards and cheque books. According to the police, the syndicate promotes its gambling sites across social media and other online platforms, and requires players to deposit money into bank accounts in exchange for e-money to use on betting accounts. 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) - After a nearly 20-year period of no significant changes, Kazakhstan is poised to alter its regulations concerning gambling. Reports from within the country indicate that Kazakhstan is looking to stimulate its economy by expanding designated gambling zones amidst increasing global instability. These new zones, primarily situated in areas geared towards tourism, will be established in four locations: Mangistau on the Caspian Sea coast; the Panfilov district and Lake Alakol in Zhetysu; the Talgar district in the Almaty region; and the Markakol area along with the Zaisan district in East Kazakhstan. It is also understood that, in addition to various social responsibility measures, these new zones will be off-limits to domestic residents, as the government intends to continue protecting its citizens from the regulated gambling industry. Alongside the expansion of gambling zones, there will be a significantly stricter approach to advertising, effectively amounting to a complete prohibition on gambling-related advertisements. Furthermore, this expansion is occurring concurrently with intensified efforts to combat the black market. These efforts are largely targeting the country's main payment providers to disrupt the flow of funds to unlicensed operators from Kazakh players. The government has reportedly engaged directly with the nation's primary mobile carriers (Tele2, Beeline, Kcell, Activ) to ensure that payments to unlicensed sites are blocked in real-time. Various geoblocking strategies will also be implemented to further curb unlicensed operators that target residents within Kazakhstan. While specific figures for the size of Kazakhstan's black market are unavailable, it is believed to be substantial. This is suggested by the growth of the iGaming sector in the country and the relatively modest tax revenue generated from it when compared to its overall scale. In several respects, Kazakhstan appears to be adopting an approach similar to that of neighboring Russia. Russia is also establishing a new gambling zone in the Altai Republic, a mountainous region, which is being promoted as a significant tourist attraction rather than a destination for local residents. Russia has demonstrated the potential of gambling as a mechanism for economic growth and increased tax revenue. President Putin has historically opposed gambling legislation, viewing the sector as detrimental to society. However, he has reluctantly acknowledged its effectiveness as an economic tool through the establishment of these zones. One of Russia's more recent gambling developments in Sochi has contributed a considerable amount to tax income from its gambling zones, reportedly generating around 765 million rubles (£7.3 million), according to media reports. 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) - Grupo CIRSA continues to present a “unique and attractive story” to global markets as the gambling PLC seeks fresh avenues for organic growth, profitability, and a robust balance sheet. Ten months after its debut on the Bolsa Madrid Exchange, CIRSA has reported record-breaking first-quarter results, reinforcing investor confidence that it stands out among European gambling PLCs. Supported by Blackstone, the gambling firm recorded a Q1 net profit of €44.6m, a 59% increase from the previous year. It also achieved record quarterly revenues of €623m and an EBITDA of €193.9m, with leadership highlighting “71 consecutive quarters of growth” (excluding the COVID-19 era). With record earnings, reduced financing expenses, and a swiftly improving debt profile, management is increasingly confident that “CIRSA has reached a new platform of growth and dominance in its operating markets”. Debt Reduction However, perhaps the most crucial development of 2026 lies beneath the top-line numbers: leadership has slashed net debt to roughly €2bn. This includes a strategic €500m reduction in Q1, granting management the ‘economic flexibility’ required to chase expansion prospects. Antonio Hostench – CIRSA Antonio Hostench, CEO of CIRSA, stated that the group is actively evaluating new strategic opportunities in both mature and emerging markets: “There might be some temporary increase, but we would quickly return to levels of 2.5 times EBITDA or lower. Hostench noted that CIRSA is considering “complementary acquisitions in Latin America, Spain, Italy and Morocco,” while also “exploring new geographies” throughout Western Europe and the Americas through both digital and land-based gambling channels. The CEO also emphasized his belief that the opportunities “already identified by management could begin materialising during 2026”. For the leadership team, the strategy seems clear: prioritize debt reduction, then followed by accelerated growth. This bolstered financial stance arrives as Chairman Joaquim Agut ramps up efforts to persuade the market that CIRSA remains Europe’s most undervalued gambling PLC—a sentiment reiterated consistently since the beginning of 2026 trading. Agut: CIRSA undervalued among PLCs “CIRSA is severely undervalued,” Agut remarked to shareholders during the company’s inaugural AGM earlier this year. The Chairman contended that wider market sentiment toward listed gambling firms has created a gap between share prices and actual operational performance. “The company’s stock market performance does not reflect its operational reality,” Agut asserted, suggesting that sector-wide market pressures—rather than CIRSA’s own execution—are the primary factors weighing on its valuation. Although CIRSA has solidified its status as Spain’s largest gambling operator and reported an FY2025 EBITDA of €736m, its shares have mostly traded between €13 and €14 since listing, falling short of the company’s €15 IPO price. Agut specifically cited the emergence of prediction betting products in the US and higher gambling taxes in key European markets, including the UK, as factors that have broadly exerted significant pressure on listed gambling stocks. “The IPO allowed the company to reduce its financial burden while maintaining a high level of investment to support growth, alongside lower debt and the continuation of a strong shareholder return policy,” Agut concluded. On the operational front, CIRSA maintains that it continues to surpass its competitors. Retail casinos, slots, and arcades remain the group’s primary earnings drivers, significantly outperforming online gaming revenues and offering stability against the market volatility seen in South American jurisdictions Together with decreased financing costs and better leverage metrics, management is convinced that CIRSA is entering the second half of 2026 from a position of strength. Blackstone's Actions Focus will inevitably shift to majority shareholder Blackstone, which still holds roughly 75% of CIRSA’s equity. Spanish investors are keen to know if the private equity giant plans to gradually reduce its majority stake. For dealmakers, interest is centered on CIRSA’s primary Spanish rival, Codere SA, as investors aim to sell the company with a target valuation of €2bn. A potential sale of Codere could pave the way for CIRSA’s next M&A move, either domestically in Spain or internationally. Analysts in Madrid have proposed that CIRSA might initiate a deal to grow its footprint in Italy’s new online gambling landscape or pursue further M&A in South American markets like Brazil or Chile, depending on regulatory developments in 2026. Spanish licensees are gearing up for heightened compliance requirements under the DGOJ’s watch, as policymakers bolster consumer protections and mandatory duty-of-care protocols. However, unlike several other major European jurisdictions, Spain has held off on introducing extra gambling taxes … for the time being. Amid tighter regulations, investor wariness, and sector volatility, CIRSA is striving to distinguish itself from European PLC peers as its debt declines, profits climb, and appetite for M&A returns to the forefront. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - BetMGM has intensified its criticism of prediction market platforms, asserting that regulated gambling operators cannot compete on an equal playing field with this burgeoning sector. During the SBC Summit Canada, the company's Director of Responsible Gambling, Richard Taylor, urged stakeholders to "remove them from our markets." He stated: "I enjoy competition, but only when everyone adheres to the same rules. Currently, there's an environment where prediction market operators refuse to acknowledge their offerings as gambling, despite them being precisely that. “They are not bound by the regulations I must follow, nor are they implementing the programs I have in place, and they are not adhering to any violations or restrictions. “To foster a truly secure ecosystem, a sustainable business environment, and to ensure people are protected, we must effectively address these bad actors through meaningful enforcement.” Unlike traditional gambling operators, which are subject to state-level regulations, platforms such as Polymarket and Kalshi are regulated federally by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). BetMGM's position on prediction markets makes it somewhat unique within the North American sports betting landscape. Competitors like FanDuel, DraftKings, and Fanatics have launched their own prediction market platforms, viewing it as a strategy to gain market share in states where they do not currently offer online sports betting. Taylor's remarks align with the views of BetMGM's Chief Executive Officer, Adam Greenblatt, who has consistently argued that prediction markets are illegally providing sports betting services in unregulated markets. Engaging with the target audience Elaine McDougall, Senior Vice President of Strategy and Programs at the Responsible Gambling Council, identified prediction markets as a significant concern during a panel discussion on effectively educating young people about responsible gambling. She highlighted that younger generations are the first to grow up with constant access to screens, leading to earlier exposure to social media and gaming platforms. “Prevention education should commence as soon as children start school,” McDougall advised. “While we may not be teaching them about odds and betting strategies in elementary school, it is crucial to educate them on financial literacy, risk assessment, and understanding risk.” Regarding older demographics, Dr Michael Naraine, an Associate Professor at Brock University, criticized the "incredibly ineffective" efforts by responsible gambling advocates to connect with college students in North America. He stressed the importance of "reaching this generation where they live," whether that be on university campuses or at sporting events they attend. Naraine explained: “My students are placing bets in the classroom. When I ask who is betting tonight, hands go up. This is where face-to-face engagement can occur. “When we discuss sports leagues and other stakeholders, we must connect with them at these venues.” 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 Latin American gaming sector is entering a new era of competition, driven by the rise of Pix, digital wallets, and embedded finance. As operators are increasingly evaluated based on their payment capabilities alongside their product portfolios, the SBC Summit Americas will examine this evolving landscape through its dedicated “LATAM Payments & Tech” track. Scheduled for Wednesday, June 10, at the Broward County Convention Center, the program provides attendees with direct insights from prominent operators, fintech and payment specialists, and regional regulators from across the Americas. This track is a key component of the broader SBC Summit Americas conference, which features six stages covering sports betting, casino operations, affiliation, leadership, player protection, and regulation, with content alternating between North and Latin American focuses over the two-day event. “Latin America is a particularly dynamic market because technology has become so deeply integrated into daily life. Consumers are accustomed to instant payments, intuitive apps, and digital services that function seamlessly. These expectations are now being applied to the gaming experience,” noted Rasmus Sojmark, Founder and CEO of SBC. “This represents a significant transition for operators. Payment processing, user experience, and player engagement are no longer siloed topics; they collectively define how a player perceives a brand. The LATAM Payments & Tech track will investigate how these elements are converging.” The session titled ‘Wallet wars: Changing the LatAM Landscape’ will examine the impact of wallet ecosystems like Mercado Pago and Rappi on mobile commerce throughout the region. Industry experts Juan Flores (CEO, Payefy), Mariola de la Piedra Quelle (CMO, Grupo Gelsa), and Carlos Sandoval (Chairman & CEO, Apuesteria) will discuss whether operators should partner with these established platforms or develop proprietary financial services integrated directly into the gaming experience. Focusing on the Brazilian market, the ‘PIX: Instant Payments’ panel will explore how the Pix system has revolutionized payment habits. Speakers Rony Silva (CTO, Aposta Ganha), Paulo Chastinet (CAO, Segurobet), Marc Crean (CPO, Todos Querem Jogar), and Thomas Carvalhaes (iGaming Expert) will analyze how instant payments have elevated player expectations for speed and ease of use, while also discussing the adoption of new features like PIX Automático. The ‘Tech Titans: How Innovation is Powering the Next Digital Frontier’ session will broaden the scope to discuss how technology, gaming, and e-commerce are fueling the next stage of Latin America’s digital economy. Leaders Javier Troncoso (CEO & Co-Founder, InsightPlay.AI) and Pedro Landa (COO, Miela Digital) will highlight the region's growth as a global tech hub, identifying the technologies driving future expansion while addressing hurdles related to infrastructure, scalability, and regulation. Following the analysis of how technology and payments are reshaping transactions, the discussion will pivot to how operators are re-evaluating the comprehensive player journey across both digital and physical touchpoints. The session ‘Building a Unified Casino Experience in an Omnichannel World’ will tackle the mounting pressure on operators to deliver consistent experiences across retail and digital platforms. Experts David Fica (CEO, Landvegas) and Juan Ignacio Juanena (COO, Azar Latino) will detail the operational requirements for integrating payments, loyalty programs, customer data, and user experience into a cohesive omnichannel framework. Beyond the conference sessions, SBC Summit Americas serves as a central hub for the companies and technologies defining the future of regional payments and tech. On the exhibition floor, attendees can engage with leading fintech and payment firms, including PayNearMe, Paysafe, Signature Payments, and ElenPAY, while the Payments & Fintech Walk-Around Tour offers direct interaction with the brands and solutions shaping the market. Delegates can also participate in various payment-centric networking opportunities, such as the Payments & Fintech Exchange, the Payments in LATAM Briefing, the Crypto Briefing, and the Industry Trends & Emerging Tech speed networking session. SBC Summit Americas is scheduled for June 9–11, 2026, at the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Register for SBC Summit Americas now! Expo Pass ($0) – Access to the exhibition floor and basic SBC Connect features. Conference Pass ($399) – Full access to the conference program, exhibition floor, and SBC Connect. Networking Pass ($399) – Full access to the exhibition floor, SBC Connect, SBC Connections, and evening networking events. Business Pass ($549) – Full access to the exhibition floor, conference sessions, SBC Connect, and SBC Connections. VIP Pass – Full access to the exhibition floor, conference sessions, SBC Connect, SBC Connections, evening networking events, and complimentary food and beverages at the Food Festival. 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) - Spain’s Ministry of Consumer Affairs has introduced a new funding scheme to support studies on disorders related to gambling, as authorities increase their efforts to enhance consumer protections and modernise gambling regulation. The programme will open for applications to universities and research bodies seeking grants to investigate the harms of gambling, with a submission deadline of 22 June 2026. The scheme has a budget of €950,620 and will finance research concentrated on the following key areas: Enhancing the identification of gambling disorders Raising awareness of risk indicators and behavioural triggers associated with gambling harm Formulating evidence-based policies to strengthen safeguards against psychological and financial damage caused by gambling Public and private research entities can submit applications via the Directorate General for Gambling Regulation’s (DGOJ) digital platform, with funded projects required to be completed by 30 June 2027. Officials noted that the programme aims to expand Spain’s data on gambling-related harm, which is particularly relevant as participation in online gambling and digitalisation continue to advance rapidly. The funding announcement is part of a broader regulatory initiative, driven by Spain’s government and the DGOJ, aimed at strengthening oversight of the online gambling sector. Agenda 2030 Since 2020, Spain’s Ministry of Consumer Affairs has been responsible for national gambling policy, with the DGOJ overseeing a regulatory strategy increasingly focused on consumer protections and digital safeguards. Last week, the Ministry and DGOJ launched a public consultation on proposed changes to Spain’s Gambling Regulation Act, renewing efforts to tighten advertising controls, improve preventive measures, and provide regulators with stronger tools to combat illegal gambling. A central element of the review involves renewed restrictions on promotions led by influencers and celebrities. Spain had previously attempted to implement tighter advertising controls under the Royal Advertising framework. However, the enforcement of stricter advertising rules faced legal and procedural challenges after measures targeting influencers, athletes, and celebrity endorsements were considered to extend beyond DGOJ’s competencies and require broader legislative support. DGOJ on the clock The government is now looking to reintroduce advertising restrictions through its 2026 reform programme. The consultation also forms part of a wider effort to modernise Spain’s gambling legislation, which has remained largely unchanged for over 15 years, with policymakers arguing that regulation must evolve alongside the growth of online gambling and changing digital consumer behaviours. Spanish operators are also continuing to wait for further technical guidance from the DGOJ on broader safer gambling measures, including a proposed player protection algorithm and a universal deposit monitoring framework for licensed operators. These initiatives were originally expected to be tested during 2025 but have not yet been implemented in live environments. Consumer Affairs officials have also indicated plans to tighten requirements for search engine visibility, potentially restricting betting-related search results to authorised operators only. The research funding programme is expected to reinforce the evidence base supporting future reforms, providing policymakers and regulators with data to shape measures designed to reduce gambling-related harm and strengthen Spain’s consumer protection framework. 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) - Paf, the operator based in Åland, reported unprecedented financial outcomes in 2025, with revenue climbing 12% year-over-year to €214.5m, up from €191.7m. Profits increased to €57.2m (compared to €54.3m in 2024), marking the most robust financial showing in the company's history. The operator also reached a significant long-term achievement, disclosing that its cumulative distributions for societal benefit have now surpassed €500m since its establishment in 1966. Paf's fund distribution for this year totaled €55.5m, elevating the overall cumulative sum to €527.9m. Jan-Mikael von Schantz, Chairman of the Board at Paf, stated, “Donating over €500m towards fostering a more robust society in Åland represents a new landmark in Paf’s six-decade journey.” “Paf has undertaken an extraordinary evolution, transitioning from providing local gaming experiences in Åland during the 1960s to launching gaming services on ferries in the late 20th century. With the advent of digital gaming since the early 2000s, Paf now operates as a recognized entity in multiple European markets. “This achievement is a testament to the sustained and effective efforts executed with considerable skill by Paf’s leadership and staff.” The company observed a 3% rise in revenue from its land-based and ferry gaming activities, alongside a 12% increase in active customer figures over the year. Even with these unprecedented earnings, Paf maintained its focus on responsible gaming as a primary guiding principle. In 2025, the company lowered its compulsory annual loss cap for all patrons from €17,500 to €16,000, simultaneously restricting younger players between 20 and 24 years old to a €6,000 limit. By February 2026, the overall loss ceiling was further reduced to €15,000, indicating that the operator has now cut the initial limit set in 2018 by half. Is a nationwide launch imminent for Paf? Paf stated that these initiatives align with its enduring goal of establishing a more sustainable gaming business model, even if it entails adopting restrictions not embraced by rivals. Furthermore, there is a prospect for the business to expand nationwide in Finland, coinciding with the market's launch in July 2027. Around this time last year, the company entered into a sponsorship deal with ex-F1 driver Kimi Räikkönen, and more recently, it collaborated with the Swedish football program Fotbollsmorgon via its sportsbook 1X2. Several operators have been observing Finland with interest; for instance, Immense Group appointed Joonas Karhu as a Managing Director for that territory, and sports betting provider Hippos ATG Oy submitted an application to the National Police Board’s Lottery Administration. Additional positive news for Paf emerged from its internal customer segment data, which revealed that its highest-risk “red” customer group has been completely eradicated thanks to the compulsory loss limits. Concurrently, revenue generated from lower-spending customers—those defined as losing under €8,000 per year—saw a 17.5% increase over the twelve-month period. Regardless of whether expansion plans are underway, 2025 demonstrated clear indicators of growth—a phenomenon sought after but not consistently realized within the European gambling sector in recent years. 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) - Genting Malaysia has joined other gaming operators in warning about the potential fallout from the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The operator informed shareholders that it is preparing for the consequences of persistent geopolitical friction and wider macroeconomic instability during a sluggish start to 2026, with inflation driven by the regional crisis squeezing consumer spending. Even though it recently launched the inaugural regulated commercial casino in New York, the company has expressed reservations regarding its global expansion outlook. In its Q1 report, the company stated: "Global economic momentum is projected to decelerate due to persistent geopolitical friction in the Middle East and wider macroeconomic instability. International tourism is anticipated to face headwinds from declining outbound travel and rising travel expenses. In this environment, the regional gaming sector may encounter a more difficult operating landscape. The Group remains wary of the short-term outlook for the leisure and hospitality sector." Sharp decline in profits Genting Malaysia posted a 10% year-on-year rise in revenue, reaching RM2.87bn (£538.5m). Conversely, its pre-tax profit plummeted by 77% compared to the previous year, dropping to RM43.1m (£8m). A portion of this downturn was linked to the expenses incurred while converting Resorts World New York into a full-scale commercial casino, following the acquisition of its license in December. Due to these headwinds, Genting Malaysia suffered a net loss of RM25.2m (£4.73m), a sharp reversal from the RM52m (£9.75m) net profit recorded in the first quarter of 2025. More positively, the operator highlighted the strong performance of its Genting Casino Stratford in London, which helped offset the negative effects of geopolitical instability. This contributed to an 11% year-on-year revenue increase in its UK and Egypt division, reaching RM460.7m (£86.6m) during the first quarter of 2026. Revenue at the group's primary resort in Malaysia also saw a modest 3% year-on-year increase to RM1.67bn (£313.4m), bolstered by gains in its gaming division. Nevertheless, Genting emphasized that it will prioritize operational efficiency and yield optimization in its home market to navigate the anticipated challenges. The operator remarked: "The domestic outlook in Malaysia is projected to be conservative, with growth potentially slowing down as inflation, geopolitical risks, and global headwinds impact the wider economy." Reasons for hope? Despite these hurdles, Genting Malaysia expressed confidence in the long-term future of the international leisure and hospitality market. Its outlook is further strengthened by its temporary monopoly in the New York casino sector, given that rival developments from Hard Rock Entertainment and Bally’s are delayed until at least 2030. Although the casino commenced operations on April 28, Genting Malaysia is still introducing new features and services. The full development of the site at the Aqueduct Racetrack is scheduled for completion in 2029. During its initial two weeks of business, the venue brought in gross gaming revenues of $27.2m (£20.3m) and $26.7m (£19.9m). 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 Belgian Gaming Commission, also known as the Kansspelcommissie, has issued a renewed warning to operators in advance of the forthcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Commission has indicated its intention to rigorously oversee bonus promotions, advertising campaigns, and football-related sponsorship visibility throughout what is typically one of the industry's most active periods. In a firm reminder issued to the market, the regulator informed operators that the nation's stringent regulations concerning gambling advertising and inducements remain fully effective, and that inspectors will "strictly monitor" any unauthorised activities during the tournament. This warning primarily addresses Articles 60 and 61 of Belgium's Gambling Act, which collectively establish one of Europe's most rigorous regulatory structures for promoting gambling. Article 60 prohibits bonuses and incentives for players, whereas Article 61 institutes a comprehensive ban on gambling advertising, with exceptions only for instances explicitly allowed by Belgium's Royal Decree on gambling marketing. The Commission explicitly stated that the Belgian industry should not view the World Cup as a reason to engage in more aggressive marketing tactics. Under Belgian law, free bets, bonus credits, cashback mechanisms, loyalty rewards, retention initiatives, and other promotional advantages aimed at attracting or keeping players continue to be forbidden. Furthermore, any benefit linked to player actions, specific engagement, or limited-time promotions could also contravene these regulations. While the World Cup is anticipated to be a period of intense customer acquisition for betting firms, with operators throughout Europe intensifying their advertising, sponsorship activations, and bonus schemes, Belgium is now asserting that it expects no leniency in standards during the World Cup period. Belgium has also implemented restrictions on social media advertising. Engagement features like likes, comments, and shares are required to be deactivated where technically feasible, and "calls to action" that encourage interaction are forbidden. Sponsored gambling advertisements on social media platforms remain largely prohibited. Belgium's Stance Against Gambling Advertisements in Sports As of January 2025, gambling logos are forbidden on the front of sports jerseys in Belgium – a prohibition that will also be implemented in the English Premier League starting from the 2026/27 season. The size of logos is also strictly limited, and gambling branding at sports venues has faced restrictions. The regulator issued a specific caution that efforts to bypass these regulations via affiliated fan platforms or informational websites connected to betting operators could still be classified as gambling advertising under Article 61. Belgium's warning aligns with increasing political and regulatory pressure throughout Europe to diminish the prominence of gambling in sports, particularly within football. This week, the Netherlands' gambling authority, the Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), issued a comparable warning to its domestic operators. The KSA has recently demonstrated particular strictness with its operators, as penalties and cautions for violating marketing regulations have become quite frequent. As previously detailed, Belgium represents another jurisdiction where gambling businesses must exercise extreme caution to adhere to the regulator's guidelines. From a player protection standpoint, progress has been observed, with a recent Sciensano study indicating that merely 2.6% of Belgian players currently exhibit risky gambling behavior, and 0.6% are identified as being at high risk of problematic gambling. However, the Commission's warning might be partly attributable to the same study's finding that 52.2% of the Belgian population is exposed to at least one form of gambling advertising on a weekly basis. Given the anticipated global increase in gambling activity during the World Cup, particularly in a nation like Belgium where football is arguably the most favored sport, the Commission aims to proactively implement protective measures for 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) - This week has featured three significant sponsorship agreements, making this installment of Sponsorship Spotlight particularly challenging to rank due to the substantial enhancements to the marketing portfolios of three major players in the betting industry. While UK taxes may be impacting domestic marketing budgets, Betfred has maintained its commitment to rugby league. Internationally, Betano is solidifying its position as a trusted partner of FIFA, and FanDuel is venturing into the world of motorsports. Betfred supports two sports simultaneously Betfred boasts one of the largest physical presences on UK high streets, alongside a popular online operation. Sponsorship and marketing have been crucial to the company's recent success, with a strong focus on sports that resonate with working-class communities. This week, the brand has announced its involvement with both the Rugby Football League (RFL), a long-standing partner, and BOXXER, a boxing promoter based in Manchester. This collaboration connects two events scheduled for this weekend at Wembley in London: the Challenge Cup finals at Wembley Stadium, and the super-lightweight boxing match between BOXXER's Adam Azim and Steve Claggett at the OVO Wembley Arena. Betfred founder Fred Done commented: “I am thrilled to be part of this Super Saturday and eagerly anticipate taking my seat at Wembley for two exciting Betfred Challenge Cup finals, followed by watching the exceptionally talented Adam Azim. It promises to be a fantastic day of sport.” Ben Shalom, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of BOXXER, stated: “This is an excellent opportunity to unite two passionate sports fan bases for a major event at Wembley, made possible by Betfred.” FanDuel joins Formula 1's expanding betting partnerships FanDuel, owned by Flutter Entertainment, is one of the two leading betting operators in the US, alongside its primary competitor DraftKings. Sponsorship deals with sports franchises and leagues have been instrumental in its growth. In its most recent agreement, the company has partnered with Formula 1. FanDuel has been named the official betting partner in the US and Canada, commencing two months into the 2026 season. The US and Canada together host four races: in Montreal, Miami, Las Vegas, and Austin. “Being named an official betting operator of Formula 1 represents an exciting advancement as we enhance our sportsbook offering to provide fans with more interactive experiences,” said Karol Corcoran, Managing Director of FanDuel Sportsbook. Formula 1 has been increasingly engaging with the betting sector. The organization partnered with Betway in early May and has been collaborating with lottery operator Allwyn for the past year. Additionally, they have worked with Crypto.com since 2021, although this partnership predates the crypto exchange's entry into prediction markets by four years. Jonny Haworth, Director of Commercial Partnerships at Formula 1, added: “As sports betting becomes a more significant aspect of how fans, particularly in the US, engage with sports, it is crucial to have a strong and well-positioned partner to execute our strategy and maintain our momentum across the market. “With tens of millions of fans nationwide, FanDuel offers yet another avenue for eligible fans to enjoy and experience the excitement of Formula 1.” Betano and FIFA continue their collaboration Kaizen Gaming's Betano has a history of working with FIFA. The Greece-based sportsbook was the first-ever official partner of a World Cup in 2022 and is set to partner with the Club World Cup in 2025. The company's latest agreement with football's international governing body designates it as an official tournament supporter for the World Cup, which is set to begin in three weeks. This deal is regional, focusing on South America and Europe. George Daskalakis, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Kaizen Gaming, stated: “Partnering with FIFA for the third time is a proud milestone for everyone at Kaizen Gaming and a clear reflection of our global expansion.” FIFA's Chief Business Officer, Romy Gai, remarked: “Since our initial partnership with Betano four years ago, we have observed a genuine dedication to sporting integrity, bringing fans closer to our game and discovering new, engaging ways to entertain them.” Spotlight rankings: Who is making an impact? Betano / World Cup While acknowledging the significant partnerships of FanDuel with F1 and Betfred with BOXXER and the RFL, the global reach of the World Cup is undeniable. Despite some controversies and challenging broadcast times, this year's tournament is projected to attract 5.8 billion viewers worldwide. For fans in Europe and South America, who are also Betano's primary customer base, the Kaizen brand will be prominently featured. FanDuel / Formula 1 This pairing brings together two prominent entities: one of the top two sportsbooks in the US and the world's most-watched motorsport series. Formula 1's increasing popularity in the US, with television audiences now averaging over a million viewers per race, makes this an opportune moment for FanDuel to capitalize on the success following the "Drive to Survive" series. Betfred / BOXXER / RFL It may seem unfavorable to rank this third, as it represents an ideal partnership for Betfred. The company has been a sponsor of the Super League, the premier division of British rugby league, since 2017. Rugby league has deep historical ties to the brand's traditional base in North-West England, as does boxing. This partnership aligns well with Betfred's brand identity, but it faces stiff competition from the global appeal of the World Cup and Formula 1. This article is provided by a third-party. 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(AsiaGameHub) - The advancement of technology and iGaming features has underscored the critical need for strong gambling industry oversight. This emerged as a central theme at this week's SBC Summit Canada, where iGaming leaders explored how technological progress could fuel the sector's expansion, while also recognizing its capacity to create regulatory challenges. Addressing the event, Mike Randall, RG Expert at Gaming Lab, cautioned: “Technology can be a powerful force for good when used by responsible parties. The same technology, however, can become a serious problem in the hands of malicious actors.” Referring to the swift rise of artificial intelligence within iGaming, he observed that personalisation offers advantages but also carries the risk of considerable harm if misused. “If I am a problem gambler dealing with an unregulated operator, they won't use that technology to advise me to slow down or pause. Instead, they might ask, ‘can we send you a jet to come and gamble more?’” He explained that technology will compel the industry to alter its perspective on regulation, and legal frameworks will have to adapt alongside technological change. Karl Rempel, Senior Manager for Technology Regulation and Compliance at the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), offered a slightly different view, stating that “personalisation itself is not inherently harmful”; the potential for harm lies in the intent and method of its application to shape player experiences. For Lorelle Muller Lumsden, Vice-President PlaySmart Centres at Responsible Gambling Council, however, the player is invariably the first to feel the effects of personalisation, irrespective of existing rules and systems. She advocated that improving the player's perspective must be the top priority – urging for greater ‘opportunity for awareness, education, transparency and visibility’ to strengthen player understanding of the iGaming products they can access. Rempel added that this has essentially been Ontario's strategy since iGaming regulation began, seeking to incorporate a broad range of features into the legal market while making sure players are not misled about the games they play. Highlighting the “perceived persistence” feature, Rempel noted that after discussions with operators, they consented to place “a disclaimer on the screen, not hidden in terms and conditions that 90% of players never read or know exist.” Fostering industry growth is widely viewed as a strategy to combat the black market and optimize the rate of channelization in Canada. Randall cautioned that people will not cease gambling; they will simply move to platforms where technology is misused, stressing that “the primary concern for problem gamblers today is the unregulated market.” He described a pivotal juncture for Canadian iGaming: “We face a choice. We can back a regulated system that grows and protects Canadians through oversight, or we can condemn gambling entirely and attempt to suppress it as much as possible.” On player safety, Randall agreed that operators bear substantial responsibility, but noted that accountability extends further to include regulators and financial institutions. A major difficulty lies in keeping players within the regulated market and preventing their migration to unlicensed sites, yet Canadian regulation supports this objective, in contrast to many established markets in Europe and Latin America. Dr Alyssa Wilson, Associate Professor, California State University, emphasized that operators must determine “How can they then incentivise their players to stay and not go to the unregulated markets?”, a task she is confident they have the means to accomplish. Additionally, Randall warned that younger people are most vulnerable to black market exploitation, also stressing the role of parents in improving education on gambling risks, noting it is “where young men, in particular, are going.” Randall called for regulations to be flexible and keep pace with technological and supervisory developments. He declared: “If we have no regulation, no safety net, and no oversight to identify when things go off course, then we are in serious trouble.” 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) - GamCare has appointed Chris Thornton as its new Director of Operations, bolstering its executive leadership amid increasing demand for gambling harm support services across the UK. Thornton will oversee the delivery and performance of GamCare’s national and regional services, including the National Gambling Helpline, and will join the organisation’s Executive Leadership Team. He brings substantial senior leadership expertise across the NHS, the voluntary sector, and health commissioning. Most recently, he served at the British Red Cross as Director for the North of England and the Isle of Man. In that capacity, he managed large-scale health and care operations involving NHS and local authority commissioned services, focusing on alleviating pressure on emergency care systems and promoting independent living. During his tenure at the British Red Cross, Thornton supervised approximately 100 staff and £3m in annual income, achieving measurable reductions in emergency department visits, hospital readmissions, and reliance on formal social care. Upon his appointment, he stated: “I’m thrilled to join GamCare at such a pivotal moment for the organisation and for everyone dedicated to reducing gambling harms across the UK. “GamCare operates on a national scale, running the UK’s only round-the-clock specialist support service for gambling harms, integrating the National Gambling Helpline, live chat, online communities, and self-guided tools with thousands of structured treatment sessions and prevention and education programmes that reach tens of thousands of individuals annually. “This combination of specialised expertise, integrated delivery, and frontline impact is uncommon in any sector, and it is shaping the understanding and delivery of effective support for gambling harms. I look forward to building on these foundations and contributing to ensuring GamCare’s services continue to meet growing demand as the sector evolves.” Chris Thornton. Credit: GamCare Prior to this, at Primary Care Sheffield, Thornton led city-wide clinical services and co-led successful funding bids worth £22m. At St John Ambulance, he expanded regional charitable activity in the East Midlands by 365%. His connection to Sheffield runs deeper than his role at Primary Care, as he served as a Trustee at Sheffield Wednesday FC, directing its charitable arm – the Sheffield Wednesday Community Programme. Thornton is a Chartered Companion of the Chartered Management Institute and previously served for eight years on the Nursing and Midwifery Council’s Fitness to Practise Committee. A period of change for GamCare His appointment follows less than two months after the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) awarded GamCare a total of £4m in funding under the much-discussed new statutory levy system. The charity was previously primarily funded by GambleAware, but that support concluded at the end of March due to the funding transition. Thornton will now be tasked with delivering services at the business, which has been operational since 1997. Victoria Corbishley, Chief Executive Officer of GamCare, added: “I’m delighted to welcome Chris to GamCare and to the Executive Leadership Team. “He brings precisely the blend of strategic and operational leadership that mirrors our operational approach, significant experience in leading complex health and community services at scale, a strong record of demonstrating impact, and a deep commitment to reaching underserved populations. “I anticipate working closely with him as we continue to deliver and develop our national services.” 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 Gambling Commission (GC) has informed SBC that the rollout of Financial Risk Assessments (FRAs) in the UK will be delayed, as additional evidence still requires evaluation. The length of the delay has not been confirmed. This development follows industry-wide discussions and, in some cases, backlash against the proposed measures—with some critics slamming the checks as not being ‘fit for purpose’. In response, the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) stated it welcomes the regulator’s decision to continue reviewing evidence on FRAs, but work must be done to ensure future proposals are ‘genuinely frictionless’. This comes after GC’s Director of Policy, Ian Angus, noted in a speech that fewer than 3% of active customers would trigger any action from operators, and of those, 97% would undergo a smooth, frictionless assessment process. Evidence evaluation still ongoing The GC board met yesterday with the agenda of deciding whether FRAs should be launched across the UK gambling sector. The GC has previously stated that “such checks could be for a range of reasons, such as anti-money-laundering, commercial reasons or where there were safer gambling concerns from the gambling business”. However, the BGC had been considering potential legal action if the regulator pressed ahead with FRA rollout without further scrutiny—but that possibility appears to be on hold, at least for now. A Commission spokesperson told SBC: “The Gambling Commission Board met to consider next steps on Financial Risk Assessments. “It was presented with an extensive evidence base but has not yet fully completed its assessment of that evidence. We will communicate further in due course.” BGC hails delay in FRA implementation Given the earlier talk of potential legal action, it is no surprise that the BGC has welcomed the delay to FRA implementation. The BGC spokesperson said: “We welcome the Gambling Commission’s confirmation that it is continuing to consider the extensive evidence submitted on Financial Risk Assessments. “This is an important and constructive step in the process, and recognition that the evidence provided by industry, stakeholders and experts deserves careful consideration. “However, there is still more work to do to ensure any future proposals are genuinely frictionless, proportionate, and do not drive customers towards the growing unsafe gambling black market. “We look forward to continued engagement with the Commission in the weeks ahead.” “We look forward to continued engagement with the Commission in the weeks ahead.” Betting and Gaming Council spokesperson It is important to note that this delay does not mean FRA implementation has been abandoned. Far from it—these checks could still be approved as a way to identify high-spending online gamblers who may be facing financial issues and offer them support. However, the method of conducting these checks remains a topic of debate. The GC says assessments would be automatically triggered when a customer spends a certain amount, using data from credit reference agencies. Many industry stakeholders, though, believe customers may be reluctant to share their data and could instead wager with black market operators to avoid FRAs entirely. 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) - Crystal Palace is the most recent Premier League team to arrange a new front-of-shirt sponsor in anticipation of the league's upcoming voluntary prohibition on gambling firms. The Eagles have announced an agreement with the American AI company Temporal, which will take over from the current front-of-shirt sponsor, NET88, starting in the 2026/27 season. This comes after AFC Bournemouth’s decision to appoint their long-term partner Vitality as their primary shirt sponsor, revealed in December 2025. Vitality is set to replace BJ88—an operator lacking a UK licence, although it previously operated under a white-label arrangement with the defunct TGP Europe. The UK-licensed bookmaker NET88 can find some comfort in knowing that its final appearance on a Crystal Palace kit will occur during the club's historic first European final next week. Why was the Crystal Palace agreement controversial from the start? The Asian bookmaker signed a record-breaking deal to become Crystal Palace's front-of-shirt sponsor at the start of the 2024/25 season, yet the alliance faced criticism right from the beginning. Despite being a regulated operator, when the Crystal Palace contract was signed in June 2024, the company had no established presence in the UK, and its website was not yet operational. This white-label entity is managed by RISQ Capital, an organization that has previously faced scrutiny over the sponsorship activities of another of its operators with a Premier League team. RISQ also runs DEBET, which serves as the front-of-shirt sponsor for Wolverhampton Wanderers. Although DEBET holds a licence in the UK, its domain, debet.co.uk, is currently marked as ‘inactive’ on the Gambling Commission’s site, even though it remains readily accessible to UK users. Regardless, the announcement that Crystal Palace has secured a new partnership will be positively received by the club as well as by the many voices campaigning against gambling sponsorship in the Premier League. Entain pushes for a comprehensive ban on unlicensed sponsorships One prominent gambling company, Entain—the owner of Ladbrokes and Coral—has been notably cooperative, having ceased all sponsorship involvement with English and Scottish football starting from the 2019/20 season. However, Chief Executive Officer Stella David appears to be losing patience with regulatory bodies as she advocates for a total prohibition on unlicensed operators sponsoring English teams. “It is unacceptable for clubs in the world’s most watched football league to be promoting gambling brands that do not possess a UK licence,” David stated in February. “These operators fail to contribute to British sport, they avoid paying UK gambling levies, and they do not maintain the player protection standards that underpin our regulated market.” Only last week, Simon Zinger, General Counsel for the LSE-listed firm, sent letters to six Premier League clubs—Burnley, Bournemouth, Fulham, Everton, Sunderland and Wolves—requesting that they engage exclusively with licensed operators for any sponsorship arrangements beginning next season. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has pledged to review gambling advertising protocols, with the government preparing to consult on a blanket ban targeting unlicensed operators, yet there has been little to no communication since the initial announcement in February. David remarked: “We support the government’s dedication to reviewing this sector, and Lisa Nandy has emphasized that consumer protection is a top priority. “However, as the consultation process continues, clubs are already ordering kits for next season and finalizing commercial agreements. The Premier League need not delay—it has the power to act immediately.” 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) - After months of delays, Portugal has finalized its concession process to award new casino operation contracts across its authorized gaming zones. Supervised by the regulatory agency Serviço de Regulação e Inspeção de Jogos (SRIJ), Portugal will grow its land-based casino portfolio from 11 existing venues to 14 total locations. This expansion comes after months of drawn-out negotiations between SRIJ, Turismo de Portugal, the Ministry of the Economy, and the state-run Territorial Cohesion authority. Discussions were prolonged over issues including licensing costs, state tax revenues, administrative backlogs, and the need to ensure all concession terms comply with European Union (EU) procurement regulations. Portugal forecasts that the new concessions will generate over €1 billion in public revenue over their full term, on top of roughly €100.6 million in upfront concession fees. However, far more was at stake than simply renewing casino licenses: Portugal was also determining which entities would control some of its most valuable gaming assets for the next 15 years. Fiscal returns were placed at the core of the concession framework's evaluation model. Operators were assessed under a weighted structure where 50% of the score was based on the percentage contribution offered above Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR), 35% on fixed annual concession payments, and 15% on guaranteed minimum variable contributions. Portuguese authorities designed this model to maximize long-term public revenues, while also ensuring operators retain sufficient capital to invest in gaming facilities, maintain uninterrupted operations, and support tourism development. Domestic incumbent operator Solverde emerged as the leading beneficiary, keeping hold of the Algarve and Espinho concessions and cementing its position as Portugal's top land-based casino operator. The Algarve concession package holds particular strategic importance, covering gaming assets in Vilamoura, Monte Gordo and Praia da Rocha, all venues closely tied to Portugal's tourism economy and southern hospitality sector. For Lisbon policymakers, this round of concessions was about more than just gambling, as the Algarve gaming zone alone is projected to contribute nearly €10 million per year to state coffers. Bem vindo à Groupe Barrière The most notable development, however, originated in northern Portugal. French casino group Groupe Lucien Barrière won the Póvoa de Varzim concession, officially entering the Portuguese market and ending decades of near-exclusive domestic control over the country's casino sector. This shift marks one of the largest structural changes to Portugal's land-based gambling industry in recent decades. Portugal currently operates 11 casinos across its authorized gaming zones, with ownership historically concentrated among local operators. Prior to this, international influence only entered the sector indirectly through Estoril Sol, whose ownership traces back to ties with the Macau gaming empire founded by Stanley Ho, later linked to holdings associated with Pansy Ho. Barrière has taken over control of Casino Póvoa de Varzim, a venue first opened in 1934 located roughly 30 kilometers north of Porto, with plans to expand its footprint beyond core gaming operations as well. The French operator will manage the property, which currently features 500 gaming positions, 11 traditional gaming tables, hospitality facilities, a theatre with seating for over 400 people, and a workforce of approximately 220 employees. Groupe Barrière – Porto Casino Clément Martin-Saint-Léon, Casino General Manager for Groupe Lucien Barrière, stated: "Póvoa de Varzim brings together everything that makes the projects we develop unique: a place steeped in history, a dynamic destination and genuine transformation potential." He further noted: "Our ambition is to bring a contemporary vision of the casino — thinking of it as a complete entertainment destination where gaming interacts with gastronomy, live performance and the broader visitor experience." The group plans to upgrade gaming infrastructure, hospitality offerings and live entertainment programming, while also integrating the property more closely with tourist flows connected to Porto. Grégory Rabuel, Chief Executive of Barrière, framed the Portugal entry as part of the brand's wider international expansion strategy. "This is exactly how Barrière approaches development today: evolving iconic establishments to unlock their full potential without losing their identity," Rabuel said in closing. Portuguese authorities remain confident that the use of authorized gaming zones will play a key role in boosting the country's entertainment industry, repositioning land-based casinos as attractive, viable leisure and hospitality destinations. 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(AsiaGameHub) - Lithuania has restated its commitment to using mandatory player cards as the key reform in its revamp of gambling regulations, which will be fully implemented by 2029. The Gambling Control Authority of Lithuania told SBC News that this mechanism—approved via amendments to Lithuania’s Gaming Law by the Ministry of Finance—was viewed as a new central regulatory tool. While some find the measure controversial, the Ministry of Finance supported it, arguing that stricter controls are necessary to boost consumer protections and enhance operators’ compliance with rules in this high-risk sector. Under the new framework, all customers using services from the country’s 18 licensed land-based casinos, 50 arcade halls, and 10 online gambling operators must use a personalized card linked directly to their player profile and national ID. This mandatory requirement will be rolled out in phases between 2027 and 2028 as part of updates to the Gaming Law. These reforms position Lithuania among Europe’s most heavily regulated gambling markets, introducing what officials describe as the first centralized gambling system implemented by an EU member state. The framework integrates identity verification, spending oversight, and responsible gambling protections into a single system. Poland and Norway’s regulators have used player cards before, but primarily to control access to land-based slot machines by checking customer IDs and tracking play time. Speaking to SBC, the Lithuanian Gambling Control Authority emphasized that this initiative is part of a broader responsible gambling strategy rather than a player surveillance program. “The draft Gambling Law aims to make player cards mandatory for all individuals wanting to engage in gambling activities—whether at land-based establishments or via remote services,” the Authority stated. “This measure seeks to ensure effective regulatory supervision of the gambling sector, reduce potential social, financial, and health-related harms linked to gambling, and support the implementation of responsible gambling policies.” Lithuania prioritises control Account-based gambling controls are at the core of the framework. Each player card connects directly to personal gambling accounts and consumer-chosen spending limits, designed to give players greater visibility over their activity while enabling automated protections when thresholds are exceeded. “Introducing a mandatory player card linked to personal gambling accounts and pre-set permissible limits will ensure compliance with established boundaries,” the Authority told SBC. “Through the player card, users can monitor their expenditure and winnings, while the system will automatically block transactions that exceed pre-set limits.” The player card also integrates into Lithuania’s wider responsible gambling infrastructure, including national self-exclusion systems and age-verification controls. Authorities have simultaneously tightened broader gambling protections in recent years, raising the minimum gambling age and strengthening restrictions on venue access and operating conditions. Lithuania to lead EU on player oversight? The Gambling Control Authority acknowledged that implementing the system increases compliance burdens for operators. “Introducing the player card, along with associated certification requirements, raises technological and financial barriers to market entry,” the Authority said. “However, these requirements apply uniformly to all market participants and ensure equal standards for responsible gambling and data protection.” Lithuania’s framework is likely to attract attention across Europe. Regulators in Spain, France, and the UK have increasingly examined stronger account-based protections, affordability controls, and centralized player protection systems as governments attempt to balance market liberalization with a “single view of the market.” With its centralized control system, Lithuania has now gone further than most European counterparts… For many, the question will be: how far will other jurisdictions 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) - Behind The Gloves turns SBC Summit Canada into $10,000 charity drive The well-being and mental health initiative Behind The Gloves has successfully raised CAD$ 10,000 (€6,500) for the Toronto-based charity Interval House, following fundraising activities conducted during the SBC Summit Canada event. This significant contribution was generated through a series of boxing and fitness sessions that took place during SBC Summit Canada (held from 19-21 May in Toronto). These sessions received strong backing from industry leaders, sponsorship, and charitable participation, all aimed at supporting women and children who are victims of partner violence. The initiative was prominently supported by lead sponsor Blazesoft and long-term partner Bede Gaming. All funds raised were directed to Interval House, a Toronto charity dedicated to providing emergency shelter, counseling services, crisis intervention, and long-term support programs. Developed specifically for the iGaming and sports betting sector, Behind The Gloves utilizes boxing-led sessions, movement exercises, and well-being activities to foster networking environments that differ from traditional conference formats. The core aim of the initiative is to strengthen professional relationships while simultaneously cultivating broader community engagement and achieving a positive charitable impact. What began as early-morning wellness sessions at SBC Summit Canada evolved into a comprehensive industry fundraising effort, uniting operators, suppliers, and stakeholders around a shared social objective. This model reflects a growing trend within gambling and betting businesses to align event participation and sponsorship activities with demonstrable corporate responsibility outcomes. Explaining the underlying purpose of the program, Behind The Gloves Founder Lee McFarland stated that the initiative was never conceived solely for running conference sessions. “Behind The Gloves was never created just to run sessions at events. It was created to bring people together in a more meaningful way and to use that engagement to create something positive beyond the industry itself.” McFarland further emphasized that the donation serves as a testament to what can be accomplished through industry collaboration. “The donation to Interval House is proof of what can happen when the right people, partners, and purpose come together. That’s what makes this initiative so powerful — the impact doesn’t stop when the event finishes.” Lead sponsor Blazesoft supported the initiative as part of its broader commitment to partnerships that generate social value beyond commercial achievements. Chief Commercial Officer, Yuliya Ivanisova, commented that supporting Behind The Gloves provided the company with an opportunity to engage in an initiative that successfully merged industry interaction with community impact. “At Blazesoft, we believe the strongest partnerships are the ones that create lasting value for both people and communities. Supporting Behind The Gloves at SBC Summit Canada gave us the opportunity to be part of something that combined industry engagement with genuine social impact.” Ivanisova added: “We’re proud to support an initiative that brings people together while contributing to an important cause.” Supporting partner Bede Gaming also highlighted the program's well-being aspect as a key factor in their involvement. Jess Marrs, VP Product Marketing at Bede Gaming, noted that the initiative fosters a distinct form of industry interaction focused on individuals and connections. “Behind The Gloves creates a very different kind of experience within the industry — one centred around people, wellbeing, and connection.” Marrs concluded: “Supporting this initiative was a natural fit for us, and seeing the outcome in support of Interval House shows what’s possible when businesses collaborate around a shared purpose.” Behind The Gloves indicated that SBC Summit Canada is a component of a larger strategy to extend the initiative across various industry events and geographical locations, maintaining a consistent focus on integrating well-being, engagement, and measurable social impact. 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 Gambling Commission has told SBC News that it hasn’t yet decided whether to move forward with Financial Risk Assessments (FRAs). A meeting took place today (21 May), where the regulator looked at the next steps for launching FRAs — the more comprehensive of the two affordability measures outlined in the Gambling Act review White Paper. Before the meeting, there was a flurry of last-minute lobbying, as some industry stakeholders and policymakers viewed 21 May as a sort of ‘deadline day’ — one where FRAs would be finalized and an implementation plan announced. However, both bettors and operators will need to wait to learn the Gambling Commission’s decision, as the board “has not yet fully finished evaluating” the “wide-ranging evidence” submitted. Gambling Commission weighs next steps “The Gambling Commission Board convened to discuss next steps regarding Financial Risk Assessments,” a regulator spokesperson told SBC News this afternoon. “We received a large body of evidence but haven’t yet fully reviewed it. We’ll share more information when the time is right.” There has been a surge of debate around FRAs, with the industry — and other critics in horse racing and political circles — often referring to them as ‘affordability checks’. FRAs are the stricter measure put forward in the April 2023 Gambling Act review White Paper, meant to apply when customers lose significant sums of money quickly. The less strict affordability check, the Financial Vulnerability Check, has been active since February last year. Vulnerability Checks initially had a threshold of a £500 net deposit over a rolling 30-day period, but this was lowered to £150 in August 2025. Numerous figures have voiced opposition to implementing FRAs, including gambling reform advocate James Noyes, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, broadcaster Matt Chapman, and several MPs who wrote a letter to Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy calling for a pause. On Monday, the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) informed SBC News that it felt it had ‘little option’ but to launch a legal challenge against the full rollout of the checks. It’s worth noting that the Commission never guaranteed it would implement FRAs after today’s meeting. In a same-day statement to SBC, the Commission confirmed that “no decisions have been made yet”. “If we do implement FRAs in the future, it will be done after careful consideration, based on evidence, and rolled out in a balanced and appropriate manner,” a spokesperson stated then. The regulator also insists that neither the current Vulnerability Checks nor the upcoming FRAs will affect most bettors, as Policy Director Ian Angus emphasized in a speech this week. Update – the BGC has released the following statement in reaction to the Commission’s decision: “We’re pleased the Gambling Commission has confirmed it’s still reviewing the extensive evidence submitted about Financial Risk Assessments. “This is a key and positive step in the process, and shows that the evidence from industry, stakeholders, and experts merits thorough review. “But there’s still more work to do to ensure any future proposals are truly frictionless, proportionate, and don’t push customers toward the expanding unregulated gambling black market. “We’re looking forward to ongoing discussions with the Commission in the coming weeks.” 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.