Category: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) - Digitain has expanded its presence in the Romanian market through a strategic partnership with local operator WINBET. WINBET Romania has launched Digitain’s affiliate platform, providing the operator with a flexible commission structure, advanced tracking capabilities, and unified visibility across its domestic operations. This collaboration also enables WINBET to strengthen its affiliate network by offering personalized performance insights and comprehensive metrics reporting. Mark Adonia, Chief Executive Officer of WINBET Romania, commented: “The implementation of Digitain’s Affiliate solution marks a significant milestone for WINBET Romania. It allows us to enhance our affiliate management tools, improve performance monitoring, and engage our partners more effectively. “We are eager to deepen our partnership with Digitain in various areas, broadening our service offerings and delivering greater value to both our players and affiliates.” In addition, WINBET.ro will soon incorporate Digitain’s sportsbook solution, allowing Romanian customers to access this expanded product range as the next phase of the partnership begins. Ani Mkrtchyan, Chief Sales Officer at Digitain, stated: “We are pleased to collaborate with WINBET Romania, introducing our affiliate platform and preparing to integrate our Sportsbook technology. “This partnership highlights how Digitain’s solutions help operators manage their affiliate networks more efficiently while enhancing the overall betting experience. “At Digitain, we remain dedicated to delivering innovative, scalable technologies that support our partners’ growth and enable meaningful engagement with their customer base—this initiative with WINBET Romania exemplifies our commitment.” 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 significant departure has taken place within the Gambling Act Review Evaluation Advisory Group concerning affordability checks, following the exit of Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) advisor James Noyes, as reported by the Racing Post. Noyes reportedly felt compelled to leave his role on the panel, expressing that proceeding with the policy rollout this month without proper evaluation is “clearly unacceptable” and lacks any “meaningful assessment.” Since their introduction as part of the White Paper, affordability checks have faced criticism from various industry stakeholders. Although Noyes had initially supported such measures, he later changed his stance. In a letter sent last month to Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy, Noyes requested that the implementation of the scheme be postponed. According to the Racing Post, Noyes stated in his correspondence that he believed it inappropriate to approve affordability checks at the Gambling Commission’s upcoming board meeting scheduled for 21 May. ‘Clearly unacceptable’ Noyes expressed astonishment that controversial financial risk assessments are being rolled out by the Gambling Commission prior to any meaningful or independent evaluation of the policy. He described the situation as “clearly unacceptable.” He further commented that during meetings of the advisory group, there was no opportunity to discuss the potential effects of these checks on consumer and operator behaviour, particularly regarding harm reduction. Noyes emphasized that the government has an obligation to ensure legislative proposals undergo adequate evaluation. In the case of the Gambling Act review—and especially financial risk assessments—he claimed this standard has not been met, resulting instead in confusion. Noyes also criticized the data used to establish spending thresholds for affordability checks, calling it “outdated and potentially irrelevant due to inflation.” Additionally, he pointed out that “frictionless” checks were halted after discrepancies emerged between credit reference agencies regarding the same customer, and highlighted that these checks were “extremely detrimental” to horse racing. Stuart Andrew, former DCMS minister, concurred that affordability checks should be paused until they can be confirmed as genuinely frictionless for consumers. “Gambling reform must protect individuals from addiction and severe mental health harm,” Andrew said. “As minister, I made it clear that affordability checks must be truly frictionless and should not push punters toward unregulated markets. The government should pause this initiative and return it to parliament for reconsideration.” The issue of affordability checks was also addressed in a recent episode of iGaming Daily. 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 much-anticipated affordability checks in the UK have prompted Dr James Noyes to resign from the Gambling Act Review Evaluation Advisory Group in protest against the government, as reported by The Sun. Dr James Noyes Noyes was invited to join the Advisory Group by the National Centre for Social Research (NatCen) due to his expertise in gambling policy and his role as a Senior Fellow at the Social Market Foundation (SMF). The Advisory Group was established in collaboration with the Gambling Commission to offer technical guidance on the provisions outlined in the 2023 Gambling Act Review White Paper, which Noyes claims has been largely ignored. No consensus on affordability checks The tipping point was reached over the controversial affordability checks, which would require bettors flagged by an operator for substantial losses to provide proof of their financial stability, according to the government. Referred to by the Gambling Commission as Financial Risk Assessments (FRAs), these checks will be triggered once customers exceed a proposed monthly loss threshold of £150. The Gambling Commission asserts that the checks will be primarily frictionless, causing minimal disruption to affected users, with fewer than 3% of active accounts expected to be impacted. Alongside most betting industry stakeholders, Noyes has voiced strong criticism of the impending measures, arguing that insufficient evaluation has been conducted on the effectiveness of affordability checks. In a recent letter addressed to Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) Secretary Lisa Nandy, Noyes highlighted concerns about “growing reports of inconsistent data, unclear results, and unwarranted friction” within the pilot scheme. Despite this, Noyes maintains that he supports the affordability checks, provided they are implemented with proper due diligence and fulfill the promised frictionless approach. SBC News has contacted Noyes for further comment on his resignation from the Advisory Group. 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) - Africa once again led Super Group’s performance in the first quarter of the year, though the parent company of Betway is also building momentum in Europe despite challenging regulatory and tax conditions on its home continent. Like countless other public and private gambling operators, this Guernsey-based, NYSE-listed gaming group is navigating difficult conditions across Europe, most notably a steep new iGaming tax rate in Betway’s key UK market. The company’s first-quarter financial results revealed total group revenue of $612 million (£452.3 million), an 18% year-over-year increase from the $517 million recorded in Q1 2025. Net profit and adjusted EBITDA also rose year-over-year by 31% to $86 million (compared to $59 million in Q1 2025) and 26% to $152 million (compared to $111 million) respectively. European revenue climbed 15% from $96 million to $113 million. The group’s Betway sportsbook and Spin casino brands operate across multiple European markets, including the UK, Ireland, Germany and Spain. In the UK, Super Group remains confident it can navigate the new 40% Remote Gaming Duty (RGD) tax and potentially gain market share. It is not the only operator with these goals. Entain, Flutter Entertainment and evoke have all shared similar outlooks, though the company’s Q1 results — which cover the period before the new RGD rate took effect on April 1 — indicate it has a strong position in Europe, where the UK is arguably its most critical market. That said, Europe is far from Super Group’s most important continent overall. Africa and the Americas — with Canada being the key market in the latter region — rank as the company’s two largest regional markets. Africa’s position as a top market comes as no surprise, as it has been Super Group’s primary growth engine across several quarters. In Q1 2026, African revenue hit $267 million, a 24% jump from the $201 million recorded in the same period the previous year, while Americas revenue rose 5% from $186 million to $195 million. This growth was achieved even after the group completely exited the U.S. market in July 2024, highlighting how important Ontario is to Super Group. The upcoming launch of a regulated multi-license market in Alberta later in 2026 could further boost Americas revenue. “Q1 2026 marked a record-breaking opening to the year for Super Group, with all-time highs for revenue, monthly active customers, deposit volumes, and wagering activity,” stated Neal Menashe, Chief Executive Officer of Super Group. “Our results underscore the effectiveness of our strategy, the strength of our brands, and the focus of our team. Africa turned in another strong quarter, while our International segment continued to build momentum.” As of now, 2026 has been a successful year for Super Group, at least from a financial perspective. Still, the company is not exempt from facing challenges, and this year it has encountered one in New Zealand. A lawsuit originally filed against SkyCity Entertainment Group over online casino operations was expanded last month to include Super Group and bet365. This has not dampened the company’s ambitions in New Zealand, though. This Pacific country plans to launch a regulated online casino market with 15 licensees on July 1, 2027. The Online Casino Bill has been passed by parliament and is now waiting for Royal Assent, which will open the door for interested companies to apply for licenses — Betway is among those planning to do so. Beyond New Zealand, Super Group is continuing efforts to bolster its brands’ management and public image. These efforts include leadership overhauls and marketing campaigns, such as the partnership announced earlier this year between Betway and Formula 1. “We also strengthened our leadership team through key hires, which reinforces our dedication to operational excellence and accelerated growth,” Menashe concluded. “With a highly stable casino business, strengthened sports trading capabilities ahead of the World Cup, and solid momentum across all regions, we are confident that Super Group is well positioned for the rest of 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) - Slotegrator COO Olga Ivanchik breaks down where most brands are going wrong when it comes to AI. Rather than treating AI as nothing more than a process optimization tool, she argues it should be made a core component of business architecture, and companies that are willing to make this shift will deliver the strongest long-term performance. Even as countless companies rush to adopt artificial intelligence, most still underestimate the full scope of what it can achieve. Right now, for example, B2C companies mostly use automation and machine learning to speed up customers’ journey toward a decision point and cut down on unnecessary friction. Clothing retailers offer digital personal shopping services, health apps build custom meal plans and workout routines, and streaming services curate content to match each user’s tastes. These use cases definitely boost sales and improve customer retention. There is no question that they will soon become so seamless that users will not even notice they are smoothing the customer journey. But too many companies are content to leave AI tools as just an optional add-on. They see AI purely as a way to boost efficiency and improve user experience. On the surface, this makes total sense: if you are using a new technology to streamline processes and cut costs, while delivering the same or better value to your customers, you must be doing something right. But you could still be doing something more. AI is not just a way to keep up with your competitors; it can be the foundation for more innovative, more effective and more strategically focused businesses. Let’s take the iGaming industry as an example. The vast majority of brands in the space use AI chatbots for customer service. They also use automation for AML and compliance monitoring, as well as for creating marketing content. It is also standard practice to use algorithms to recommend new games that a player may enjoy. But some brands are going further, integrating AI into their core processes and launching AI-first products. The brands that will succeed over the long term are those that embed AI at a strategic level, not just as an optimization tool. The clearest example of this shift is real-time personalization. This goes far beyond just making suggestions based on what players have enjoyed in the past; it ensures players see exactly the right tailored offer at exactly the right time. For sportsbooks, these can be live, in-play bet recommendations. For casinos, a player might get a bonus right after they experience a run of bad luck. And all of this is executed by AI agents that can learn and become more effective over time. AI is also extremely effective at building adaptive UX, running predictive LTV modelling, delivering finely tuned localisation and providing continuous risk assessment and accurate fraud detection. In all of these cases, scaling requires a level of processing power that human teams simply do not have. When you shift from using AI to optimize existing processes to building strategies around AI’s capabilities, you can create new features like table games with AI dealers, real-time odds and pricing models, and hyper-personalised game lobbies. This is not just improving an existing experience; it is creating an entirely new experience for users. Let’s examine the two capabilities — optimization vs. strategy — through the example of fraud detection. On one hand, you have the most obvious application: even before the rise of AI, human teams struggled to process and verify ID documents, run ongoing threat analysis and identify and respond to potential threats quickly enough, making automation the only practical option. This approach is undeniably effective; using AI to automate onboarding speeds up the signup process and cuts down on friction. But now that cybercriminals have access to techniques like deepfakes and synthetic IDs (fake identities made from real, stolen personal data), basic automation is no longer enough. It is easier than ever for fraudsters to get past your defenses. Sometimes, a convincing enough deepfake can even help them pass a liveness check. And once they are through your defenses, their behavior patterns are barely different from those of a real player, and even a trained security professional can struggle to spot them. That is, of course, until the damage is already done. This is where an extra, strategic layer of analysis is needed. For example, an AI model integrated into your back office can provide ongoing behavioral monitoring and response that follows pre-set rules. Going a step further, as we have done on our own platform, an AI assistant can quickly analyse all available data, and not only provide an overview, but also make strategic recommendations for next steps. Optimizing processes and boosting efficiency is only the starting point for AI’s potential. In the near future, successful businesses will be those that use AI not just for optimization, but for strategy-building; not just to carry out automated actions, but to learn and act independently. Companies that integrate AI into their operational core will be the ones lifting their industries to the next level, and those that leave AI on the fringes will simply be left behind. 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) - BlackRock, the world's biggest asset management firm, has increased its shareholding in Flutter Entertainment to 5.12%. This update comes just days after Flutter, which had a share price of £68 on the London Stock Exchange as of the time of writing, published its 2026 first-quarter results, which included confirmation that the company is evaluating its listing status on the London Stock Exchange. Since January 2024, the parent company of Paddy Power, Sky Bet, Betfair and FanDuel has held a dual listing, after it launched trading on the New York Stock Exchange. In May of that same year, it shifted its primary listing to the NYSE to capitalize on the expanding US market, while also recognizing the rising significance of FanDuel to its operations. With that move, it gave up its spot on London's prestigious FTSE 100 index. But now a full delisting from London appears to be a clear possibility, after Flutter stated as part of its Q1 results: “We are conducting a review of our ordinary shares listed on the London Stock Exchange. “The outcome of this review may lead to the delisting of Flutter’s ordinary shares from the LSE.” The scope of Flutter’s US operations The US is now by far Flutter's largest market, generating $1.76 billion in the most recent period, equal to roughly 41% of its total 2026 Q1 revenue. It has a number of high-profile transatlantic investors, including The Vanguard Group, US-based businessman Kenneth Dart and investment management company Capital Group. During a recent fireside discussion, Chief Executive Officer Peter Jackson reaffirmed the importance of the US market for Flutter. “When I look at the US market, I believe we are continuing to deliver very strong performance in the iGaming space,” he said. “I think that segment of our business will continue to grow, and we are extremely well positioned to leverage our existing scale there. “From a sports betting perspective, there were a small number of areas where we did not perform as well as expected last year. We have already identified those issues, acknowledged them, gotten on top of the problems, rolled out necessary adjustments, put our sports improvement plan into effect, and we are starting to see the benefits of those efforts come through now. “Investors naturally want to see us keep delivering strong results, but we remain the largest operator in the US, we are profitable, and we are determined to not only get the business back into a leading position, but also regain our momentum to prove that we can keep growing our market share and support the expansion of the whole sector.” Flutter expects to finish its review of its London listing within the current quarter, and confirmed that its NYSE listing will not be affected if the company decides to cancel its share listing in London. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Gambling is poised to become a key focus within a series of comprehensive reforms targeting Kenya’s tax system. A draft version of the country’s 2026 finance bill, submitted to the National Assembly, outlines intentions to reinstate a 20% withholding tax rate—reversing the decision made in October 2025 that had lowered it to 5%. The proposal also revises the timing at which this tax is applied. Previously, under changes introduced by the Finance Act 2025, the 5% tax was levied when a player withdrew funds from their betting account. If enacted, the 20% rate will be imposed on the net winnings—calculated as the amount won minus the stake placed by the player. The earlier move to reduce the tax rate was proposed by the Parliamentary Budget Office with the aim of increasing government revenue from Ksh 5.4 billion (£32.9 million) to Ksh 11.4 billion (£69.54 million). However, the swift reversal suggested by the current proposal indicates that the previous policy may not have achieved its projected success. In addition to changes affecting taxable winnings, the bill broadens the definition of taxable deposits to encompass “all funds intended for gambling purposes,” which are also subject to a 5% tax. The legislation states: “‘Amount deposits’ refers to the total value of money or equivalent assets transferred or otherwise provided for betting or gambling activities. This includes contributions made by either the player or the operator, whether in cash, cash equivalents, or through accounts managed by players, operators, or licensed entities. It also covers conversions into instruments such as chips, tokens, tickets, credits, or similar forms.” This revised definition expands the scope of taxable betting funds beyond the prior classification, which limited taxation to amounts deposited directly into a customer’s betting wallet. Unintended consequences Beyond direct increases in gambling-related taxes, the bill may also affect Kenya’s gambling sector through measures targeting mobile devices. If passed by Parliament and signed into law by President William Ruto, a 25% excise duty will be applied upon activation of mobile phones and associated communication devices. The rapid growth of gambling across Kenya and throughout Africa has largely been driven by rising access to mobile technology across the continent. Such a tax increase could elevate the cost of imported smartphones, potentially slowing the adoption of mobile devices in Kenya and, consequently, limiting the ability of the online gambling industry to reach new users. Regulatory changes take hold Kenya’s gambling market continues to implement reforms outlined in the Gambling Control Act, 2025—a legislative update designed to modernize the sector and replace outdated laws dating back to the 1960s. As part of these reforms, the Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) has been established to replace the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB). In March, the GRA announced the appointment of Peter Maina Karimi as its new Director General, tasked with guiding the transition process. The updated Gambling Control Act provides technical guidelines governing betting operations, casinos, and lotteries, while also aiming to reduce social harms associated with gambling. Upon his appointment, Karimi pledged to introduce stricter controls against illegal gambling activities and enhance responsible gambling safeguards. 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) - ReferOn has entered a new phase of growth following the completion of a management buyout. The affiliate management platform was acquired by former General Manager Alex Bukin, who now serves as the company's newly appointed Chief Executive Officer. However, ReferOn’s existing leadership structure will remain in place alongside Bukin. Bukin commented: “This marks a significant milestone for ReferOn and the start of an exciting new chapter for the business. The management buyout gives us the long-term vision needed to keep advancing the platform.” “We are committed to product development, enhancing our offerings for partners, and supporting ReferOn’s ongoing expansion across key markets.” Other organizational updates at ReferOn include Vlad Bondarenko stepping into the role of Chief Product Officer from Head of Product, while former Operations Lead David Harris has been named Chief Operations Officer. Building on a strong period of progress, day-to-day operations will remain unaffected by the buyout, with current partnerships continuing as usual. The platform continues to deliver a comprehensive suite of tools designed to support operators and affiliates while helping them maintain flexibility. ReferOn is also expanding its product portfolio as part of its growth strategy, incorporating features such as its integrated interface layer Refie, dynamic reporting capabilities, company grouping functionality, sub-affiliation options, independent deal calculation, two-factor authentication, and full mobile optimization. Last month, ReferOn introduced a new crypto finance module to its platform, aimed at streamlining payout workflows and enabling crypto payments through licensed partners’ payment gateways. 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) - Flutter Entertainment’s Cash4Clubs programme has been honoured as the leading grassroots initiative advancing women’s football across Britain. By channelling direct funding to 86 women’s grassroots football projects, Cash4Clubs took the Best Grassroots Initiative title at the 2026 Women’s Football Awards. Cash4Clubs began in 2008 as Betfair’s first CSR programme, created to strengthen community ties to football and broaden access to Britain’s most popular sports for everyone. The scheme offers grants of £2,000 to local community clubs and organisations, and since its launch Cash4Clubs has contributed over £7 million to grassroots sport throughout the UK and Ireland. Delivered alongside UK charity Sported, the 2025/26 Cash4Clubs programme drew applications from almost 1,500 organisations and charities, with grants set to support more than 50,000 people across over 40 sports in the UK and Ireland. Funding has enabled clubs to upgrade facilities, buy equipment, back coaching programmes and widen access to sport in local communities, including female-founded clubs such as Chorley Women FC, Alway FC, Brighton Seagals FC and St James Swifts Ladies FC, chosen as partners by Sported. The London award ceremony featured an opening address from Prince William marking the ongoing growth of women’s football, while Gabby Logan and Jamie Carragher presented the prize. Flutter’s award was accepted by the media and public relations team of Rachael Kane, Camilla Toogood and Steve Hawks. Carragher highlighted the initiative’s enduring influence in local communities, saying: “Through their contributions to sport at a grassroots level, Flutter’s Cash4Clubs programme earned the Best Grassroots Initiative award because it has delivered transformational change for hundreds of grassroots sports groups and thousands of individuals in local communities, providing safe, inclusive and accessible opportunities for women and girls to take part in sport while addressing barriers linked to poverty, inequality, confidence and belonging.” The programme sits within Flutter’s wider community investment strategy aligned to its goal of positively impacting 10 million people by 2030. Kevin Harrington – Flutter UK&I Flutter UK CEO, Kevin Harrington, said: “Cash4Clubs is central to our pledge to touch the lives of 10 million people in the communities where we operate by 2030. “Community clubs are the foundation of sport in the UK and Ireland. Many run on tight budgets, yet they generate remarkable impact for their members and the wider community. Without backing from programmes such as Cash4Clubs, many of these essential local institutions would struggle to continue. “We are proud to play our role and grateful to be recognised at the Women’s Football Awards.” 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) - Ukraine’s gambling regulator, PlayCity, has imposed compliance penalties amounting to UAH 946m (£16m) in just under a year. This announcement was made by the regulatory authority in its monthly activity report, as it prepares to launch further inspections of 34 licensed operators by the end of the year. PlayCity assumed control of the local gambling sector in June 2025, officially succeeding the previous regulator KRAIL, which was unable to fulfil its duties due to the war with Russia. KRAIL was initially established in 2020 through an official decree that legalised gambling in Ukraine for the first time in 11 years. However, its period of operation was brief. Last year, President Zelenskyy’s government determined that KRAIL was ineffective, as conscription orders led to staff being diverted from their roles at the agency indefinitely. The former regulator also faced controversy after one of its officials was accused of accepting bribes in 2021. These circumstances prompted the creation of PlayCity, which within its 11-month mandate has recorded regulatory violations valued at nearly £16 million—underscoring a deeply problematic gambling market that KRAIL failed to effectively oversee. PlayCity still facing challenges However, progress is not without obstacles, as Ukraine’s recent efforts to meet its financial commitments to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have raised concerns that the gambling sector could again face disruption. Ukrainian lawmakers are currently reviewing a draft law designed to consolidate information about all digital income generated within the country and how it is taxed, with this data subsequently transmitted to the IMF. As the bill advances toward its second reading, an amendment is included that would shift gambling policy-making responsibilities from the current Ministry of Digital Transformation to the Ministry of Finance. Experts have expressed caution regarding this proposal, warning that any alterations to the structure of gambling regulation in Ukraine will likely hinder PlayCity’s plans for enhanced oversight in 2026. These plans include the aforementioned inspections of 34 licenses, completion of a national problem gambling study, implementation of a centralised monitoring system for licensed operators, and intensified efforts against illegal gambling advertisements. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - As Canada’s iGaming sector continues to evolve, operators are under increasing pressure to streamline payment processes while adhering to rigorous compliance standards and mitigating rising fraud risks. The Payments & Compliance track at SBC Summit Canada will take place at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre from 19–21 May, focusing on how the industry is adapting. The event will convene operators, regulators, and technology providers to discuss strategies for developing efficient yet compliant systems. Throughout the track, sessions will address the growing complexity of anti-money laundering (AML) frameworks, the impact of payments on business performance, and the importance of enhanced coordination to safeguard the integrity of both sports and betting markets. The opening session, titled AML After the Audits: From Box-Ticking to Shared Infrastructure, will examine the industry’s shift toward integrating AML compliance into everyday operations. Panelists include Steve Armstrong (Chief Compliance Officer & Money Laundering Reporting Officer, FRL Compliance Solutions), Susan Bala (Co-Founder and Director, Advanced Compliance Technology), Dave Foppert (Senior Director of AML Compliance, DraftKings), Rebekah Jackson (Global Gaming Director, GBG), Chad Kornett (SVP, Geolocation, GeoComply), and Derek Ramm (Director, Kinectify). The discussion will explore the ongoing debate around AML risk ownership in Canada and approaches to maintaining compliance across provincial and federal regulations. It will also delve into Payment-led AML challenges and opportunities, along with balancing regulatory requirements with a positive player experience. Next, the session Payments That Perform: What Actually Moves the Needle in Canadian iGaming will focus on crafting an optimal payment journey for Canadian players. Participants Dami Amurawaiye (Head of Operations & Sportsbook, PointsBet), Nick Gunn (SVP of Growth, SEON), Kevin Jing (CFO, Hottakes), Gaurav Juneja (SVP and BU Leader, CGI), and Sam Kawsarani (VP Product, Paramount Commerce) will assess how to meet player expectations for speed, reliability, and familiarity in deposits and withdrawals. Further topics will include persistent friction in withdrawal processes and the operational challenges posed by banking volatility, fraud, and chargebacks—especially in a market where seamless payments are increasingly expected as standard. The presentation Protecting Sport Integrity in Canada’s Evolving Betting Market will analyze how the industry can more effectively combat competition manipulation within sports. Led by Scott Grant (Manager, Competition Manipulation, Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport), attendees will learn about match-fixing mechanisms, key indicators for operators and regulators, and the value of improved collaboration in preventing and disrupting future manipulations. The track will conclude with a masterclass on quasi-gambling in Canada, presented by IMGL. Legal experts Danielle Bush (Partner, Segev LLP), Ron Segev (Founding Partner, Segev LLP), Jack Tadman (Principal, GME Law), and Kevin Weber (Partner, Dickinson Wright LLP) will review the legal landscape of prediction markets, sweepstakes, mystery boxes, and skill-based games. They will analyze recent high-profile cases and consider potential future developments in Canadian quasi-gambling legislation. The Payments & Compliance track is one of six conference tracks at SBC Summit Canada this year. Additional tracks include Leaders in Sports Betting & Casino, Leaders in Land-Based and Lottery, Affiliates and Advertising, Player Protection, and Cybersecurity. Masterclasses on land-based and online casino strategy will also be offered across both days. Secure your tickets for SBC Summit Canada today. VIP Event Pass – Access to the exhibition hall, all conference sessions, and evening networking events for CA$995. Group VIP Pass – Purchase three or more VIP passes and each pass is priced at CA$795—ideal for teams. Complimentary passes are available for operators and affiliates upon application. 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) - Indonesian police conducted raids resulting in the arrest of over 300 foreign nationals suspected of involvement in illegal online gambling activities. Among the 321 individuals detained in Jakarta, 228 were identified as being from Vietnam, according to a report by AP News. An additional 57 suspects were from China, while the remaining individuals originated from Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, and Cambodia. Wira Satya Triputra, Director of General Crimes at the Indonesian Police, stated that the gambling operation, situated near Jakarta’s Chinatown, operated more than 70 online gaming websites aimed at international players. He added that employees within the operation were assigned various roles, including customer service, telemarketing, and financial administration. Evidence indicated that the establishment had been operational for approximately two months. During the raid, authorities seized assets such as cash in multiple currencies, computers, mobile phones, and passports. The Indonesian Police believe that most of those arrested entered the country using short-term visitor visas. All forms of gambling are prohibited in Indonesia, and those apprehended could face up to nine years in prison along with a fine of 2 billion rupiah (£85,352). Part of a wider strategy to fight unlicensed gambling Despite the ban, Indonesian authorities have had to address the extent of the nation’s underground gambling market. The Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK) of Indonesia estimated that 422.1 million online gambling transactions occurred in 2025, with total deposits amounting to 36 trillion rupiah (£1.52 billion). It is believed that many of the sites targeting players in Indonesia and across Southeast Asia are based in neighboring countries such as Cambodia and Myanmar. However, Untung Widyatmoko, secretary of Indonesia’s Interpol bureau, noted that these recent arrests, alongside the uncovering of transnational crime organizations in other regions of Indonesia—including Surabaya, Bali, and Batam—reflect a shift in criminal behavior as law enforcement in other nations intensifies its efforts. He told local news outlet Kompas: “Following enforcement actions in Cambodia, we observed a migration toward Indonesia, which we had anticipated.” 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) - Evoke, the LSE-listed company currently under financial strain, has expressed growing concerns about the scale of debt refinancing required before 2028. In its 2025 Annual Reports and Accounts, the business emphasized the need to achieve “a sustainable and materially improved level of profitability and cash generation” prior to that date. This is crucial because a significant portion of its substantial £1.9 billion debt must be refinanced starting in 2028. The operator of William Hill, 888, and Mr Green holds two major loans amounting to £769 million, both scheduled to mature in July 2028, while other elements of the £1.9 billion debt are due at the start of the next decade. It also maintains a £200 million Revolving Credit Facility, from which it has drawn £119 million so far—but the lenders have imposed strict conditions. If Evoke fails to repay or refinance most of the £769 million debt by January 2028, the facility will be withdrawn. Future results must show improvement over FY25’s performance, as acknowledged by the company itself. While CEO Per Widerström described 2025 as a “step-change in underlying profitability,” the company’s loss after tax surged by 149%, rising from £220.9 million to £549.1 million. Its net debt for the year stood at £1.9 billion, as previously stated. A potential sale remains on the table. The business has until the same time next week to respond to an offer from Bally’s Intralot to acquire the entire company at 50p per share—totaling around £225 million. A sale had been anticipated since Evoke announced a strategic review in December 2025. Evoke is not the only entity burdened by debt Further complicating matters, Bally’s Intralot itself carries a multi-million-pound debt load. On the ongoing offer and review process, Mark Summerfield, Chair of Evoke, remarked: “While no conclusions have been reached and there can be no certainty as to the outcome of the review, the Board considers this process to be an important component of its broader assessment of the Group’s long-term viability and financial resilience. “On 20 April 2026, in response to media speculation the Group announced that in connection with the ongoing strategic review, it was in discussions with Bally’s Intralot S.A. regarding a possible offer for the entire issued and to be issued share capital of the Group at a price of 50p per share. At the date of this report, discussions remain ongoing.” The combined debt implications of a potential deal between Bally’s Intralot and Evoke have been widely discussed. However, Evoke continues to struggle to reverse its fortunes, especially in the UK market—the home base of William Hill—where Remote Gaming Duty tax recently increased to 40%. In response to the UK tax hikes, Summerfield commented: “I am concerned that this reflects a failure of Ministers to understand the harm this will do to player safety and the damage it will cause one of the UK’s most successful global industries; I doubt it will even raise the forecast additional taxes as it will lead to reduced investment in the UK market and greatly promote the growth of the illegal black market. In response, your Board has had to act decisively to protect shareholder value and to assess all strategic options available to the Company.” Regardless of whether this represents a governmental miscalculation, it clearly does little to support the business’s urgent efforts to boost profitability under mounting debt pressures. The company has stated it will “mitigate approximately 50% of this [tax rises] impact from the first full year of implementation through supplier savings, operating cost efficiencies, selective reductions in marketing expenditure, retail store closures, and adjustments to customer propositions such as reduced bonusing.” For FY25, Evoke’s revenue grew by 2% year-over-year to £1.78 billion, and EBITDA increased by 43%, from £211.4 million to £301.3 million. However, losses widened significantly. Without major progress within the next 18 months—or a potential rescue from Bally’s Intralot—the prospect of having to rapidly repay £769 million in debt could soon become alarmingly realistic. 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) - Chile's Supreme Court is confronting additional legal repercussions regarding the implementation of restrictions on online gambling operators. Last week, SubTel, the national telecommunications regulator, announced it would cease efforts to block access to unlicensed gambling websites. The agency conceded failure, explaining it could no longer rationalize allocating resources to maintain court-ordered IP blocks obtained for the benefit of Polla Chilena and other municipal gambling entities. In 2023, Polla Chilena secured a federal appeal ruling aimed at imposing restrictions on online gambling operators, as the Chilean government continued to struggle to conclude a long-awaited online gambling regulatory framework. This appeal was contested by Chilean media stakeholders and eventually reached the Supreme Court. The high court ruled that "online gambling in Chile is illegal unless expressly authorised by law" and instructed telecommunications providers to block offshore betting sites—a mandate SubTel was tasked with enforcing. Unable to continue this duty, SubTel pointed out that "these operators simply shifted to new domains once blocks were imposed," revealing that the court order focused on website addresses instead of the underlying betting platforms. This position was communicated to the Supreme Court by Romina Garrido, Chile's Undersecretary of Telecommunications, who stated the agency could no longer uphold the restrictions secured by municipal operators like Polla Chilena. Garrido cautioned that the enforcement actions were draining significant resources from an already overburdened agency, which is also entangled in the protracted stalemate over Chile's online gambling regulation. Addressing the Constitution Committee of the Chamber of Deputies, Garrido emphasized that SubTel was never an official party to the legal case and thus lacked direct authority to execute the ruling, beyond facilitating technical compliance with telecom firms. Nevertheless, Supreme Court justices inquired if any of the "blocking campaigns had produced meaningful results." The breakdown of this enforcement approach has deepened political rifts concerning Chile's gambling future. Some deputies insisted the Supreme Court's ruling must be upheld despite practical obstacles, while others contended the focus should return to restarting Chile's journey toward establishing a regulated online gambling market, similar to progress seen in other South American nations like Brazil and Colombia. Jaime Mulet, President of the Finance Committee, advocated for ongoing oversight of the issue, asserting that judicial rulings "must be complied with," even as the practical enforcement difficulties grow more apparent. Conversely, Evópoli deputy Jorge Guzmán contended that Chile's main objective should be progressing regulation through Congress, instead of compelling SubTel to wage a technologically futile battle against offshore domains. Kast commences austerity negotiations Focus now shifts to the new cabinet of President José Antonio Kast, who took office in March 2026. Kast leads the "Republican Alliance," the conservative coalition in the National Congress. However, reports indicate the four-party coalition bloc is deeply divided on the regulatory approach for online gambling in Chile. The disagreements revolve around the licensing framework of Chile's online gambling bill. Some ministers aim to protect online privileges for municipal operators while restricting the number of licenses available to international firms. There are growing concerns that Kast may leverage the finalization of Chile's online gambling framework as a negotiating tool to advance the severe spending cuts that were a cornerstone of his 2025 election platform. Aligning with other conservative South American administrations, Kast has pledged to review unnecessary agencies and policies considered impediments to economic growth. The President seeks to implement a 3% spending reduction across all Chilean public departments. In his first year, Kast targets cost savings of $8 billion, with projections suggesting annual savings could reach $21 billion by the next election. For Chile's Supreme Court, SubTel's admission serves as a sobering reality check. While the judiciary successfully declared offshore online gambling illegal, the practical capacity to enforce that decision in a borderless digital environment now seems increasingly constrained. 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 Supreme Court of Chile is facing increased legal repercussions due to the implementation of restrictions on online gambling operators. Last week, SubTel, Chile’s national telecommunications agency, announced that it would no longer pursue efforts to block access to unlicensed gambling websites. The agency has conceded defeat, stating that it can no longer justify allocating resources to maintain court-ordered IP blocking measures that were secured in favor of Polla Chilena and other municipal gambling operators. In 2023, Polla Chilena won a federal appeal ruling aimed at imposing restrictions on online gambling operators, as Chile’s government continued to struggle with finalizing terms for a long-delayed online gambling framework. The appeal was contested by Chilean media stakeholders and later taken to the Supreme Court, which ultimately ruled that “online gambling in Chile is illegal unless expressly authorized by law” and ordered telecom providers to block access to offshore betting sites—a directive to be enforced by SubTel. Unable to fulfill this mandate, SubTel cited that “these operators simply shifted to new domains once blocks were imposed,” revealing how the ruling targeted web addresses rather than the betting platforms themselves. The message was delivered to the Supreme Court by Romina Garrido, Chile’s Undersecretary of Telecommunications, who stated that the agency could no longer sustain restrictions established by municipal operators such as Polla Chilena. Garrido warned that enforcement actions were consuming significant resources from an overstretched agency already caught in the prolonged stagnation of Chile’s online gambling regulation debate. Appearing before the Constitution Committee of the Chamber of Deputies, Garrido emphasized that SubTel was never formally a party to the legal proceedings and therefore lacked direct authority to enforce the ruling beyond coordinating technical compliance with telecom providers. Despite this, Supreme Court judges inquired whether any “blocking campaigns had produced meaningful results.” The failure of the enforcement strategy has intensified political divisions regarding Chile’s gambling future. Some deputies argued that the Supreme Court’s ruling must continue to be enforced regardless of operational challenges, while others maintained that the focus should shift toward restarting Chile’s process of establishing an online gambling regime, following developments in other South American countries (Brazil and Colombia). Jaime Mulet, President of the Finance Committee, defended continued scrutiny of the matter, stating that judicial rulings “must be complied with,” even as the practical limitations of enforcement become increasingly evident. In contrast, Evópoli deputy Jorge Guzmán argued that Chile’s priority should be advancing regulation through Congress, rather than forcing SubTel into a technologically unwinnable campaign against offshore domains. Kast begins austerity negotiations Attention now turns to the new cabinet of new President José Antonio Kast, who assumed office in March 2026. Kast leads the “Republican Alliance,” the conservative coalition in the National Congress. However, on gambling policy, the four-party coalition bloc is reported to hold deep divisions over the regulatory approach to online gambling in Chile. The divisions center on the licensing structure of Chile’s online gambling bill, with some ministers seeking to preserve online privileges for municipal operators while limiting the number of licenses granted to international operators. Concerns are emerging that Kast could use the resolution of Chile’s online gambling framework as a bargaining chip to support the drastic spending cuts budget that formed the centrepiece of his 2025 election campaign. Mirroring other conservative South American governments, Kast has stated that he will undertake a review of unnecessary agencies and policies deemed to hinder economic growth. Overall, the President is aiming to impose a 3% reduction in spending across all Chilean public departments. In year one, Kast aims to generate cost savings of $8bn, with the figure projected to rise to $21bn annually by the time of the next election. For Chile’s Supreme Court, SubTel’s admission represents an uncomfortable reality check. While the judiciary succeeded in declaring offshore online gambling unlawful, the practical ability to enforce that judgment in a borderless digital marketplace now appears increasingly limited. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - As the World Cup approaches, sportsbook solutions provider BETBY has introduced new enhancements to its offerings ahead of the global event. The FIFA World Cup is widely recognized as one of the most significant events in the betting industry’s calendar, and this year’s competition is anticipated to see heightened competition for player acquisition—not only among regulated operators but also against the unlicensed sector. In preparation for the tournament, BETBY has released a comprehensive package featuring pre-priced odds on all possible nation-v-nation matchups and microbetting options. The company emphasizes that its solution enables players to place bets on a variety of in-game outcomes, such as throw-ins, fouls, corners, offsides, goals, and goal kicks. With at least 90 distinct intervals expected throughout each match, the month-long event will span 48 participating nations. “As the largest sporting event globally, the World Cup demands as much focus on preparation as it does on execution,” stated Chris Nikolopoulos, BETBY’s Chief Commercial Officer. “By becoming the first B2B sportsbook provider to release the full tournament bracket prior to the draw, we empower operators with a strategic edge: they can begin engaging their customers earlier and generate momentum well before the opening kickoff. Meanwhile, features like microbetting and our eWorld Cup help maintain high engagement levels across every stage of the competition. We are delivering a complete content suite designed to help our partners maximize both player activity and revenue throughout the entire World Cup cycle.” BETBY’s preparations align with broader industry efforts as other B2B providers such as GR8 Tech and numerous B2C operators have also been enhancing their offerings in anticipation of the tournament. Additionally, BETBY is leveraging its expertise in esports by integrating an ‘eWorldCup’ into its World Cup experience. This initiative replicates all official World Cup matches in a fast-paced esports format. 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) - Alex Bukin, previously General Manager at ReferOn, has taken ownership of the company and assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer. The affiliate management platform announced today that Bukin successfully completed a management buyout, following significant growth over recent years. In addition to Bukin’s new position, Vlad Bondarenko has been promoted from Head of Product to Chief Product Officer, and David Harris has moved from Operations Lead to Chief Operations Officer. The leadership team states that ReferOn will prioritize high-performance tools and commit to delivering next-generation affiliate management solutions for the iGaming sector following the management buyout and leadership changes. “This marks a pivotal moment for ReferOn and the start of a new chapter for the business,” Bukin stated. “The management buyout gives us the long-term focus needed to consistently enhance the platform. We remain dedicated to product development, improving our offerings for partners, and supporting ReferOn’s ongoing expansion across key markets.” Established in 2023 and based in Cyprus, ReferOn operates as an affiliate management platform serving affiliates targeting engagement within the global iGaming industry. The management buyout followed the company achieving several milestones in its first year, including processing 35.7 million clicks, generating 2.4 million registrations, onboarding 18,000 affiliates, and maintaining 136,000 active trackers. Over the past year, the firm has concentrated on technological improvements and upgrades, particularly in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cryptocurrency payments, as well as launching an analytical framework called the ‘Evolution Cohort’ in March 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 Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) is reportedly investigating Entain Australia & New Zealand after the operator allegedly sent emails to inactive customers warning them that they must place a bet or face monthly inactivity fees. According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the Ladbrokes Australia brand also failed to disclose to customers their legal right to close their account via the government’s self-exclusion platform, BetStop, and have any remaining balance returned. This latest development follows Entain’s recent involvement in a court-enforceable undertaking after more than 500 breaches of national self-exclusion rules were uncovered during a separate ACMA investigation. The Sydney Morning Herald reported that Entain sends these emails to customers who have been dormant for 18 months, informing them that a $5 per month fee will be applied to their account for holding funds. The report added that the ACMA confirmed it is reviewing whether these emails violate requirements to promote BetStop. Inactivity email BetStop mandates that operators in Australia close accounts of any customer who registers for self-exclusion and return any remaining balance to them, while also preventing them from opening new accounts. Operators are also required to inform customers about BetStop services in all electronic communications related to gambling promotion or advertising, including activity statements. According to the news outlet, Ladbrokes emailed a customer who had not placed any recent bets. The operator reportedly stated that it “wanted to remind” the customer that, after 18 months of no betting activity, “an account is deemed inactive and an inactive account fee of $5 (or your remaining balance if less than $5) will be charged”, with the fee continuing monthly thereafter. The email also reportedly indicated that if wagering activity occurs before a certain date, the account would not be considered inactive and no deductions would be made. The Sydney Morning Herald further noted that if a customer’s balance “includes money they deposited but never wagered, Ladbrokes does not allow them to simply withdraw it”, as all deposited funds must first be used on a bet. “Neither of the inactivity emails mention BetStop, nor the ability for a customer to have their funds returned to them without placing further bets,” the news outlet said. SBC Media has reached out to Entain for comment on the Sydney Morning Herald report regarding dormant customers and inactivity fees. Entain’s over 500 self-exclusion breaches The report on dormant customers and inactivity fees comes just days after the operator committed to ‘meaningful’ improvements to its player protection measures, following an ACMA investigation that identified over 500 self-exclusion violations. The ACMA investigation found that Entain had: Opened accounts and allowed wagering for individuals registered with BetStop. Opened new accounts for people registered with BetStop. Failed to adequately promote BetStop in customer texts and emails. ACMA has accepted a comprehensive 18-month court-enforceable undertaking from Entain, requiring the company to commit to an independent review of its compliance systems and processes, and implement any recommended improvements. An Entain Australia spokesperson commented in response to the ACMA investigation: “We take all our regulatory responsibilities seriously. These matters arose during the early stages of a new national system, and we have worked constructively with the ACMA to implement meaningful enhancements to our processes and controls. “Our focus is on getting this right for our customers, particularly those who choose to self-exclude, and on building long-term trust through a strong, compliance-led culture.” 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 six months of searching, Ainsworth Game Technology (AGT) has appointed Ryan Comstock to serve as its permanent Chief Executive Officer, ending the acting role he had held since October. Comstock assumed the interim CEO position following the resignation of Harald Neumann, whose tenure became untenable after the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) declined to grant him a gaming license in Austria. In October, AGT announced it would conduct a comprehensive search for a new CEO, evaluating both internal and external candidates. Prior to his appointment as Acting CEO, Comstock served as the company’s Chief Operating Officer since 2018. Before joining AGT in 2012, he worked for nearly a decade with Deloitte’s audit and assurance practice, where he specialized in serving gaming, manufacturing, and technology companies. A statement from AGT explained that the board determined Comstock possessed the necessary attributes and operational experience across all areas of the company to assume the CEO role. The board reviewed his performance over the six-month period since his appointment and considered his extensive knowledge of all operational functions, along with initiatives he led during that time. Public grilling Neumann, former CEO of Novomatic, stepped down after a contentious public hearing before the NGCB. He was criticized for appearing hostile and confrontational toward board agents during the vetting process, and officials noted that he failed to provide direct answers to their questions. The board also examined his prior relationship with an AGT employee in Australia. While Neumann described their interactions as consisting only of several dinner meetings, he admitted they violated AGT’s fraternization policy. “I think the totality of the circumstances has left you unable to meet your burden to prove suitability at this moment,” stated Nevada Board Chair Brian Dreitzer during the hearing, adding that he expressed serious concerns about Neumann’s conduct toward agency personnel. A blow to Novomatic Neumann was brought on as CEO of AGT in 2021 with the goal of advancing Novomatic’s efforts to gain control of the ASX-listed company. Following an unsuccessful initial takeover attempt last year, Novomatic continued its campaign through an off-market bid, raising its stake to approximately 67% at the time of reporting. However, the Austrian gaming giant’s offer to purchase all remaining shares at AU$1 (£0.53) per share fell short of gaining full control in February due to insufficient shareholder support. In response, Kjerulf Ainsworth—son of AGT founder Len Ainsworth—launched a competing offer of AU$1.30 (£0.69) per share in an effort to increase his own holdings. Ainsworth has been a vocal critic of Novomatic, repeatedly asserting that its bid significantly undervalued AGT. The most recent of his offers concluded on April 27, leaving him with an 8.24% stake in AGT. Australian Stock Exchange regulations have barred Novomatic from making another offer within four months of its latest proposal. With this cooling-off period set to expire next month—and given the financial commitments already made—it is anticipated that Novomatic will initiate a new bid for complete ownership during the second half of 2026. Nevertheless, considering both the previous failure of its offer and those by Kjerulf Ainsworth, it is evident that a substantially improved proposal will be required to attract the support of AGT’s minority shareholders. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The Star Entertainment Group has fully completed the refinancing of its debt, securing US$390 million (approximately A$540 million) from WhiteHawk Capital Partners. In response, the Australian casino operator is advancing its remediation plan to satisfy regulatory requirements as part of a broader strategy to enhance compliance and operational efficiency. The Star remediation plan The Star has faced significant regulatory scrutiny in recent times, but continues to implement measures aimed at strengthening its compliance framework. The successful debt refinancing enables The Star to move forward with its remediation initiatives, aligning with directives from the New South Wales Independent Casino Commission (NICC) and the Office of Liquor and Gaming. These include ‘decentralising the group’s operating model to increase accountability and efficiency at individual property levels for business performance’, alongside technology upgrades designed to ‘foster safer gambling practices and ensure continuous, appropriate oversight’. This development occurs during a critical phase. In March, the NICC renewed the suspension of The Star Sydney’s casino licence, with Nicolas Weeks remaining in charge of operations until 30 September 2026, unless earlier terminated. The Star stated in a press release: “The reinstatement of The Star Sydney’s casino licence and the Queensland Government’s withdrawal of the deferred suspension on The Star Gold Coast’s casino licence are still subject to ongoing discussions with the relevant regulators; an update is anticipated later this year.” Additional liquidity for The Star The operator first established a binding credit facility with WhiteHawk at the end of March. However, as outlined in the latest announcement, the three-year agreement provides for an ‘annual interest rate based on Term SOFR plus a margin, resulting in an interest rate that closely matches those under previous credit facilities’. Other key terms of the agreement include: Quarterly amortisation commencing on 31 March 2027. A minimum liquidity covenant of A$50 million for the first 12 months post-financial close, increasing to A$75 million between months 12 and 18, and further rising to A$100 million thereafter. A minimum asset coverage ratio of 1.40x, calculated based on the fair market value of secured assets relative to the outstanding principal. Based on valuations conducted prior to financing, the company expects it will comply with the coverage ratio, with the initial test scheduled for 31 December 2026. Minimum EBITDA covenant effective from 31 March 2027. An interest reserve account funded with the first 12 months of interest payments. Standard covenants, representations, undertakings, events of default, and review events—including customary financial covenants and reporting obligations. With the refinancing concluded and the required interest reserve account established under the facility, The Star reports it now holds approximately A$130 million in additional liquidity. This capital will support ongoing operations, cost reduction efforts, and strategic projects. EBITDA remains negative Last month, The Star released its third-quarter results for the period ending 31 March 2024, revealing early signs of progress from its cost-cutting actions. While EBITDA improved significantly compared to the same quarter in the prior year, it still reflects a loss. These improvements stem from several initiatives, including the WhiteHawk refinancing, a binding long-term arrangement with Chow Tai Fook Enterprises Limited and Far East Consortium International Limited concerning the Queen’s Wharf Brisbane and Gold Coast resorts, and organisational streamlining within corporate offices. These measures follow new leadership after Bally’s Corporation and Investment Holdings completed their A$300 million strategic investment late last year. The Star commented in its report: “Further initiatives—such as optimising administrative functions across each property and identifying opportunities to reduce indirect costs and supplier expenses—are being pursued to drive long-term financial sustainability and strengthen the group’s overall financial position.” 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.