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(AsiaGameHub) -   The UK Gambling Commission has revised its perspective on illegal online gambling activity, though the core takeaway remains one of caution. New data covering up to February 2026 reveals inconsistent traffic trends instead of a sustained increase, while more widespread VPN use is reducing the reliability of market measurement. Good to Know The UK dataset spans a 21-month period ending in February 2026. The regulator observed fluctuations in illegal gambling traffic rather than a distinct long-term upward trend. VPN usage increased following the implementation of the Online Safety Act in July 2025, and is now further obscuring the accuracy of the data. Surge in VPN Use Creates Fresh Challenges for UK Illegal Gambling Data Tracking A surge in VPN usage now lies at the heart of the illegal gambling debate in the UK. Per the Gambling Commission, these anonymization tools make it harder to gauge how many consumers are accessing unlicensed gambling sites and the volume of activity taking place outside the regulated market. This finding informed the latest update released on Tuesday. The regulator used estimated minutes spent on illegal gambling sites as a proxy for consumer engagement across the 21-month dataset concluding in February 2026. Results showed sharp swings in activity, with no consistent seasonal pattern and no permanent rise. A spike seen in autumn 2024 did not reappear a year later, leading the regulator to classify the trend as volatile rather than evidence of a structural expansion of the market. As far back as November 2025, the Commission already stated that it could not reliably estimate spending through unlicensed operators. It also noted that three common methods—based on time, channelization, and surveys—were not fit for purpose. Six months later, that uncertainty has not gone away. The overall picture is slightly broader now, but remains far from settled. July 2025 added another layer of complexity. After the Online Safety Act was rolled out, VPN use rose before stabilizing at roughly 40% above pre-July levels, according to data from Ofcom and Similarweb cited by the Commission. A 30% uplift had already been factored in to account for hidden traffic, but newer evidence suggests even more illegal gambling activity may now be concealed behind VPN masking. This forced the regulator to add two VPN usage scenarios to its trend analysis, widening confidence intervals from mid-2025 onward. In other words, it is easier to discuss trend direction than it is to determine market size. Web traffic estimates can hint at shifts in activity, but they do not capture every pathway to illegal gambling, including apps and direct connections. For enforcement teams, this creates a tangible problem. Payment blocking, domain takedowns, and collaboration with banks and ad platforms all depend on knowing where activity is occurring and whether enforcement efforts are working. Tim Livesley, head of the UKGC Data Innovation Hub, said: “We are continuing to work on refining our methodology, and are seeking input from other international regulators and licensed operators to help validate and improve existing data sources, as well as identify additional datasets that can enhance our understanding of the illegal gambling market.” “The Commission continues to prioritize tackling illegal gambling, and we will also share further updates on how we are expanding our disruption and enforcement efforts.” A March panel at the Spring Evidence Conference in Birmingham helped frame this work. Industry representatives, HMRC, and the Dutch gambling regulator gathered there to discuss illegal gambling enforcement and persistent data weaknesses. The UK is not alone in facing this issue, either. Regulators across multiple markets are encountering the same challenge, as privacy tools make detection, tracking, and payment disruption more difficult. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Kalshi detailed three insider trading enforcement cases linked to political event contracts, offering a clearer view of how the firm is implementing its revised compliance regulations. Good to Know Each of the three cases related to political event contracts governed by Rule 5.17(z). Two candidates reached settlements and agreed to pay fines along with five-year suspensions. Mark Moran declined to settle and is now subject to a heftier penalty and a clawback of any profits from the trades. Kalshi Issues Warning to Political Contract Traders On Wednesday, Kalshi made public details of three enforcement actions, all connected to insider trading in political markets. The firm stated that these cases demonstrate the safeguards it recently implemented. Rule 5.17(z) is at the core of each case; it states: “If a Trader is a decision maker, either directly or indirectly, or has any influence, directly or indirectly, no matter the scale and importance of the influence, on the outcome of the Underlying (event) of any Contract, that Trader is prohibited from attempting to enter into any trade, either directly or indirectly, on the market in such Contracts.” One case involved Matt Klein, a Minnesota State Senator and candidate in the state’s Democratic Primary. He bet $50 on his own race, allegedly to learn how prediction markets operate. Klein subsequently settled with Kalshi, agreeing to pay a $539.85 fine and accept a five-year suspension from the platform. The trade had an added layer of irony, as Klein co-sponsors a Minnesota bill aimed at banning prediction markets. The second case focused on Ezekiel Enriquez, a candidate in the Republican Primary for Texas’ 21st Congressional District. Kalshi reported that he too traded on the result of his own election. He reached a settlement and agreed to a $784.20 penalty and a five-year suspension. The most significant case involved Mark Moran, a former contestant on “FBoy Island” and an investment banker who ran for a U.S. Senate seat in Virginia. Kalshi noted that Moran made several trades directly linked to his own campaign. Per the company, he acknowledged knowing the trades violated exchange rules but refused to settle. Kalshi then suspended him from direct or indirect access to the platform for five years, levied a $6,229.30 penalty, and ordered the clawback of any profits from the trades. Kalshi stated that these cases underscore its intention to closely monitor improper activity across its exchange. In the company’s own words, the actions reflect a commitment to “policing all types of unfair or improper trading” on the platform, no matter the size of the trade. 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) -   FDJ United began 2026 with restricted growth in gross gaming revenue and lower revenue, as increased gambling taxes continued to weigh on online betting and gaming in the UK and Netherlands. Good to Know Group GGR increased 1% to €2.175bn, while revenue decreased 3% to €895m. Online betting and gaming revenue fell 8% to €213m. FDJ United now anticipates only minimal GGR growth in 2026 and a slight revenue decline. Tax Pressure Continues to Burden FDJ United The most significant headwind originated from the UK and Netherlands, where rising taxes continued to impair results. Revenue for the Kindred-led online betting and gaming division fell 8% to €213m, while GGR declined 1% to €342m. However, excluding these two markets reveals a stronger performance. The unit's GGR increased 6%, while revenue decreased by just 1%. In the UK, Kindred business revenue plummeted 24.1%. In the Netherlands, revenue decreased by 19.9%. FDJ United noted this as a distinct improvement compared to the 42.1% decline observed throughout the full year 2025. Management is currently attempting to stabilize the business through platform modifications and a leadership overhaul. Pascal Chaffard vacated the CFO position in February to lead the online betting and gaming unit, succeeding former Kindred CEO Nils Andén, who departed to pursue other ventures. On Tuesday, FDJ United announced that Dan Lévy, formerly of Ipsos, will assume the CFO role.The group stated that the new leadership team is entirely dedicated to enhancing performance, with a primary focus on the UK and Netherlands. For the entire enterprise, group GGR inched up 1% year over year to €2.175bn. Conversely, however, revenue dropped 3% to €895m, as gaming taxes reduced the quarter's figures by €24m. FDJ United also revised down its 2026 forecast. The company now projects marginal GGR growth for the year, a small revenue dip, and nearly €90m in additional gaming taxes for the calendar year. The recurring EBITDA margin is now projected to be between 23% and 24%, missing the previous 24.5% target. France delivered a mixed quarter for the group. GGR from the French lottery and retail sports betting remained steady at €1.74bn, while revenue fell 2% to €627m following a €15m tax impact. FDJ United attributed some of this weakness to temporary factors late in the quarter, such as less compelling sports fixtures and a high payout ratio in retail sports betting. Point of sale revenue in France declined 3% to €546m, while online lottery revenue grew 1% to €81m. Nevertheless, FDJ United still foresees annual revenue growth from this segment once these transient effects subside. Chairwoman and CEO Stéphane Pallez said:“In an environment still affected by the impact of tax increases and tighter regulations on gaming, the group is stepping up its efforts in operational efficiency, synergies and financial discipline, with the aim of returning to sustainable, value creating growth from the second half of the year onwards, for the benefit of all its stakeholders.” 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) -   Executive orders have been issued in New York and Illinois to prohibit state employees from engaging in insider trading on prediction market platforms. These directives focus on public workers who utilize or share confidential data to trade event-based contracts. Key Details Illinois Governor JB Pritzker enacted his order on Tuesday with immediate effect. New York Governor Kathy Hochul implemented a comparable restriction on Wednesday. California Governor Gavin Newsom established a related policy earlier this March. States Increase Oversight of Prediction Markets Illinois led the way this week. Governor JB Pritzker signed a directive prohibiting any state worker, official, or board member from leveraging nonpublic data obtained through their roles to participate in prediction markets or event-based contracts. This prohibition extends to assisting others in such trades, regardless of whether a profit is realized. Pritzker stated: “Prediction markets have expanded into an unregulated arena where individuals can wager on real-world outcomes, including those they might influence.“This creates opportunities for insider trading and the misuse of private information. While the Trump Administration is plagued by reports of appointees seeking financial gain, Illinois is acting to ensure public servants prioritize the public interest over personal profit.” New York's order followed on Wednesday. Governor Kathy Hochul prohibited state staff from insider trading on these platforms, describing the move as a fundamental ethical necessity to maintain public confidence. Hochul stated: “Using confidential information for financial gain is straightforward corruption. Our measures will guarantee that public officials serve their constituents rather than their own bank accounts.“While Donald Trump and Republicans in Washington ignore the ethical chaos they have fostered, New York is taking the lead to eliminate insider trading.” California previously addressed the issue in March. Governor Gavin Newsom signed a mandate preventing state appointees from using nonpublic details to purchase prediction market contracts or aiding others in profiting from such agreements. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Oklahoma legislators halted another effort to legalize sports betting on Wednesday. A vote in the Senate defeated a proposal to authorize online sports wagering and physical sportsbooks, leaving minimal opportunity for revival before the legislative term concludes in late May. Good to Know The Oklahoma Senate turned down the bill in a 21 to 27 vote. The legislation would have granted gaming tribes sole authority over mobile sportsbooks and the ability to offer retail betting. Governor Kevin Stitt continued his opposition, maintaining a veto threat. Senate Vote Deals Another Blow to Oklahoma Sports Betting A renewed attempt to establish sports betting in Oklahoma failed as the Senate rejected a bill that had previously passed the House in a more limited version last year. The proposal had been dormant for over a year before being modified earlier this month and advanced to a Senate vote. The vote revealed the persistent division that has stalled legalization for years. Certain senators argued that legalized betting would exacerbate gambling addiction. Others opposed the exclusive model for tribes and sought inclusion for the state lottery, horse racing tracks, and businesses outside the gaming industry. Had it passed, the plan would have given Oklahoma's gaming tribes exclusive control over an unlimited number of mobile sportsbook platforms. Close to 100 tribal gaming venues could have also launched retail sportsbooks. The bill's author, Bill Coleman, stated his intention to pursue another vote, although no timeline is fixed.If enacted, the law was scheduled to begin on Nov. 1, permitting online and retail sports betting to launch immediately. Cooperating tribes would have collaborated and shared revenue, differing from models in states like Michigan, Arizona, and Connecticut, which typically feature a single tribe partnering with one commercial operator. FanDuel supported the bill, projecting it could generate $75 million to $100 million in state revenue over five years. In a statement to iGaming.org, a spokesperson commented: “Oklahomans are already placing sports bets on unregulated offshore sites – legalization would move this activity into a secure, regulated environment,” the spokesperson stated. “FanDuel looks forward to potentially collaborating with tribal nations to create a responsible system and urges lawmakers to advance this initiative.” Any eligible external operator could have pursued entry into the market via a partnership with a tribe. This was expected to attract major players like FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars, bet365, Fanatics, and Hard Rock. FanDuel and DraftKings alone represent approximately 75% of the legal sports betting handle in the U.S., with under a dozen operators dominating over 99% of the market. The proposal also featured an uncommon financial structure. Tribes would have paid the state a portion of the total betting handle instead of a tax on gross gaming revenue. After allowable deductions, estimates suggested the effective rate would be close to or lower than the median rate of about 10% applied to gaming revenue in many other regions.Additionally, up to $7 million annually was earmarked for marketing initiatives linked to the NBA's Oklahoma City Thunder. A prior version of the bill had contained provisions for the team to operate a sportsbook, but this was omitted from the final draft. Oklahoma continues to be among the 11 states that have not legalized retail or mobile sportsbooks. Despite this, the state leads in the number of physical casinos per capita and generates over $6 billion in yearly gaming revenue, accounting for roughly 5% of Oklahoma's annual GDP. 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) -   Caesars and Westgate have finalized an agreement that will place Caesars in charge of Westgate SuperBook operations prior to the start of the NFL season, provided the deal receives approval from Nevada regulators. Good to Know Caesars is set to manage race and sportsbook operations and provide the betting odds. The branding and atmosphere of the Westgate SuperBook will remain unchanged. Upcoming features will encompass same-game parlays, expanded live betting options, and self-service kiosks. We're excited to announce a new partnership with @CaesarsSports that will bring an enhanced fan experience to the Iconic Westgate SuperBook.  The SuperBook will continue operating under its legendary identity, with updates designed to make the in-person and digital experience… pic.twitter.com/Xq9AvHRwDY — SuperBook Nevada (@SuperBookNV) April 21, 2026 Caesars Takes Over Operations at Westgate SuperBook The Westgate SuperBook is transitioning to a new operational model. Caesars Entertainment and Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino announced that Caesars is poised to assume control of the renowned Las Vegas sportsbook ahead of the NFL season, contingent upon the Nevada Gaming Commission's approval. Caesars will oversee the sportsbook technology, race and sportsbook operations, wagering access, and the betting menu. Nevertheless, the Westgate SuperBook will retain its distinct identity and ambiance. The partnership is being presented as a fusion of a classic Las Vegas sportsbook environment with a comprehensive, modern betting offering. Eric Hession, president of Caesars Digital, stated in the release:“The Westgate SuperBook is one of the most recognizable sportsbook destinations in the world, and we are proud to partner with Westgate on the next chapter of its evolution. “By powering the SuperBook with our sportsbook platform, we’re combining a legendary sportsbook environment with a modern betting menu and added convenience that reflects how sports fans want to wager today.” The updated betting options will feature same-game parlays, additional parlay varieties, and an expanded live betting menu covering professional and college sports. Additionally, Caesars intends to install self-service betting kiosks throughout the SuperBook and the broader resort to accommodate guests who prefer not to wait at the counter or utilize a mobile application. Having opened its doors 40 years ago, the SuperBook remains a cornerstone of the Las Vegas sports betting scene. Spanning over 30,000 square feet, the venue boasts 350 seats, a massive 220-foot by 18-foot 4K video wall, a full-service bar, complimentary Wi-Fi, and various other amenities. Westgate also hosts event-specific promotions, such as those linked to Vegas Golden Knights playoff games, as well as contests during the NFL season, NCAA Tournaments, and other significant sporting events. Cami Christensen, President & General Manager of Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, remarked: “Since opening in 1986, our SuperBook has been a defining part of the Las Vegas sports betting landscape.“We are incredibly proud of that legacy and thrilled to partner with Caesars Sportsbook to take it to the next level, combining decades of history with innovation, scale, and an even more dynamic guest experience.” Patrons will have the capability to create accounts and utilize the Caesars Universal Digital Wallet via the kiosks and the Caesars sportsbook 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) -   An Indonesian mini-market employee with a gambling addiction allegedly forced open the store's safe and fled with 52 million Indonesian rupiah (more than $3,000), which police say he then gambled away on online casino sites. According to reports from the Indonesian media outlet Liputan 6, the clerk managed to lose the entire stolen sum in a mere three hours. Authorities in West Jakarta's Jeruk district stated the incident gained widespread attention online after security camera video of the purported theft was shared across social media platforms. Police reported that the accused was on overnight duty at the 24-hour convenience store on February 22. Once CCTV recordings seemed to capture him entering a room on the second floor and opening a safe, the suspect fled. This initiated a search lasting two months, which concluded when he was located at a hideout in the Kebayoran Lama residential area of South Jakarta. Inside an Indonesian mini market. (Image: @syahrultoko8762/YouTube/Screenshot) Indonesian Lost Stolen Cash in 3 Hours Officers stated the suspect offered no fight when they stormed the location on the afternoon of April 13. Police said that after taking the money, the suspect "promptly transferred the funds into his private bank account via an ATM located inside the mini market." The owner of the mini market was not initially aware the money was missing. The theft was only discovered after the owner found inconsistencies between the register's sales records and the actual cash on hand. Following an extensive review of security footage, police were ultimately able to pinpoint the suspect. Investigators revealed the man has confessed to the offense. He acknowledged he had developed an addiction to online gambling. The individual now faces theft charges. A conviction could result in a prison term of up to seven years. Gambling in all its forms is prohibited in Indonesia. A recent government campaign targeting online casino patrons has resulted in the freezing of bank accounts belonging to more than 33,000 citizens. 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) -   “Beer” Anusorn Pothong, a Thai influencer boasting more than 7.2 million TikTok followers, states that an addiction to online gambling destroyed both his personal life and career. According to the Thai news source Khaosod Online, the social media figure, who also has 835,000 Facebook followers, revealed that his debts from gambling ballooned to approximately $621,000. Pothong explained that he took loans from his brothers, sisters, and other relatives. He reported having repaid around $155,000 of the total so far, but still has about $465,000 outstanding to family members. The celebrity affirmed his dedication to changing his behavior and is currently repaying his debts at a daily rate of $3,700. In a Facebook video that garnered 274,000 likes, Pothong described how he was lured into online gambling under the false impression it was a fast method to earn cash. Nevertheless, he said the habit quickly became uncontrollable, depleting his entire savings and reducing him to poverty. The Thai Influencer “Beer” Anusorn Pothong (Image: @beeranusorn/TikTok/Screenshot) ‘Beer’ Warns Fans Not to Gamble Pothong claimed his gambling addiction caused him to “lose everything,” resulting in a loss of trust from his family and severe damage to his business. He started a personal care product line, but confessed the addiction has devastated the venture. “I have to settle all my debts,” Pothong informed his audience in the video. “Each day, I’m surviving on just a baht or two. I run a cleansing products business, but I lack the funds to purchase more inventory.” “I created this video for my supporters,” he stated. “I won’t be upset by any criticism or schadenfreude. I appreciate the wake-up calls. And I am deeply grateful to those offering words of support.”Pothong pleaded with his followers to avoid online gambling sites. He cautioned that with online casinos, “the house always wins.” “I must caution my fans and followers: Stop if you are able,” he urged. “Anyone who has repeated my error, anyone who gambles, it destroys your family. You will collapse and never recover.” He added that the psychological impact of online casino addiction can be equally harmful as the monetary losses. In the previous month, police in Phitsanulok, Phitsanulok Province, executed eight arrest warrants following the takedown of an online gambling site called Eu9thaff. Authorities stated that four additional suspects are still wanted. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Oklahoma legislators have declared that they are “closer than ever” to authorizing sports betting. The state is still among the minority in the US that does not provide either retail or internet betting options. Sen. Bill Coleman and Rep. Ken Luttrell stated that they have secured a deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder and tribal leaders to advance legislation that had been stalled for a year. “Today is a significant moment for Oklahoma,” Coleman remarked in a press statement. “We are nearer than ever before to making sports betting legal.” Coleman and Luttrell have updated HB1047, a bill that passed the House with a 62-31 vote in March 2025. Although the bill hit a roadblock in the Senate, legislators anticipate a Senate vote on the measure within the next week. “This updated bill results from thousands of hours of discussions spanning several years,” Coleman noted. He has been striving to legalize sports betting ever since the repeal of PASPA in 2018. OKC Thunder and Tribes Support the Measure The suggested amendment to HB 1047 would authorize retail and mobile sports betting via the state’s tribal entities. These tribes would subsequently collaborate with commercial operators, like FanDuel and DraftKings, to roll out online services. Coleman and Luttrell indicated they negotiated the bill’s terms alongside the tribes and the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Thunder has backed the sports betting initiative since the previous year. Under the new amendment, revenue derived from bets on NBA and WNBA games would be directed into the Strong Readers Fund to aid early childhood literacy initiatives. Tribes would retain the bulk of the revenue while remitting 8% of their earnings to the state. “This deal honors our tribal allies and demonstrates teamwork with our NBA franchise to establish a lawful, transparent system capable of competing with the unregulated black market and dubious prediction markets,” Coleman stated. “This has been a lengthy journey,” Luttrell continued. “We have dedicated years to ironing out the details, heeding our tribal partners, and cooperating with stakeholders such as the Oklahoma City Thunder to ensure this is done correctly.” Oklahomans Are Already Placing Sports Bets “Oklahomans are already wagering via alternative platforms or traveling across state lines to place legal bets,” Coleman remarked. “It is time for us to unite and support this proposal, which safeguards consumers and retains those funds within Oklahoma to aid our state.” Neighboring Missouri started its sports betting market last year, and Wisconsin enacted legislation last month to permit online betting. Oklahoma is currently among the 11 states lacking legal sports betting, yet the emergence of prediction markets has effectively enabled residents to engage in sports gambling. “The current outcome mirrors that effort and offers Oklahoma the opportunity to finally bring this activity into a lawful, regulated framework,” Luttrell stated. “This entails keeping those funds locally, boosting our economy, shielding consumers, and funding essential services. We have completed the groundwork, and we are now ready to proceed with a plan that incorporates years of feedback and thoughtful deliberation.” Governor May Veto the Bill The Senate is now expected to vote on the amended bill, which must receive House approval once more because of the changes made. Upon passage, Governor Kevin Stitt would need to sign the legislation into law. Nevertheless, it is not certain that the Governor will refrain from vetoing the measure. Stitt has previously criticized a tribal-exclusive model for sports betting and has voiced general disapproval of expanding gambling within the state. “It’s terrible,” Stitt commented during an interview last autumn. “If it were up to me, there would be no gambling at all. It is a travesty.” Regarding the recent effort to legalize sports betting, a spokesperson for the Governor remarked, “Governor Stitt has made it clear that he will only back a free-market approach to sports betting in Oklahoma. Since no legislation has arrived at his desk yet, we will not discuss the details of pending bills.” 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 PrizePicks customer who alleged he lost $50 on the platform was taken into custody after directing graphic threats at employees. Aaron John Sasser claimed he was en route to the firm's Atlanta, Georgia office, armed and prepared to detonate the building. Sasser started dispatching the threatening communications on April 3 at approximately 7 a.m. He specifically targeted PrizePicks CEO Mike Ybarra, declaring, “Hey there Mike Ybarra. You better leave town because I’m driving down to Atlanta to blow up the PrizePicks headquarters and then I’ll head to your house, tie you up and rape your wife in front of you.” An unsealed affidavit reveals he subsequently issued comparable threats to co-founders Adam Wexler and Jay Deuskar. Chatbots Fail to Grasp Severity of Threats The automated PrizePicks chatbot replied, “I’m sorry to hear you’re feeling this way. Would you like me to connect you with a human agent? Or if you want, you can share more about what’s on your mind and I’ll do my best to help.” There was a delay before a human agent joined the conversation. During this interval, Sasser stated he was already traveling to the office “to kill every PrizePicks team member.“ “Got my AR fully loaded & and extra two mags,” he continued. “I’ve got Mike Ybarra engraved on one ofthe bullet casings”. A PrizePicks support agent answered, “I’m so sorry for this inconvenience. Please allow me a few moments to look into this for you.” Sasser noted the absence of urgency from the support team, adding, “Wonder if you’ll get the point before everyone is dead, Mike Ybarra”. Loss of $50 Triggers Threats Sasser later clarified that the threats were prompted by a $50 loss on the platform. In his home state of Maryland, PrizePicks provides daily fantasy sports (DFS) games and prediction markets launched in collaboration with Kalshi. While Sasser did not specify the nature of his loss, he threatened, “If my $50 doesn’t end up back in my bank account before 5pm today, I’m going to drive down to Atlanta, Georgia and kill everyone in the PrizePicks office.” The support agent informed him that if he did that, then his account would be banned. The final communication from support arrived at 7:17 a.m., more than 20 minutes after the initial explicit threats. A staff member wrote, “I am sorry to hear that you are upset. May I please have the email address on account?” Sasser retorted, “You have my email address you dumb b****!” Threats Carry Lengthy Prison Sentence It remains unknown whether he actually intended to act on the threats. The criminal complaint alleges he transmitted “an interstate threat to kidnap or injure.” A conviction for this crime carries a potential penalty of up to 20 years in prison, owing to the detailed threats involving explosives. After his arrest, Sasser was released to his father's custody, but the court ordered him to undergo strict home confinement. The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia also prohibited Sasser from contacting the named PrizePicks executives, participating in any gambling activities, and using real-time customer support services. While athletes often receive threats from gamblers, it is less common for company executives to be singled out. PrizePicks has not issued a public statement on the incident, but its terms of service specify, “We do not tolerate any abuse or harmful treatment toward our support representatives, or any other PrizePicks employee. If our chat transcripts indicate that you directed abusive or otherwise threatening language toward our staff, we reserve the right to permanently remove your live support privileges and terminate your account.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   New York Attorney General Letitia James has initiated legal action against Coinbase and Gemini, accusing the firms of operating illegal gambling via their prediction market services. The two companies have recently launched markets that allow trading on the outcomes of sporting events, elections, and awards shows. James stated that “these prediction market platforms meet the legal criteria for gambling in New York” because the results are unpredictable, beyond a participant's influence, or dependent on chance. These activities are being conducted without the required gambling licenses. The state's gambling industry is tightly controlled, with just nine authorized sportsbooks. “Calling it something else doesn't change what it is; gambling by any other name is still gambling,” James remarked in a press release. “The prediction markets run by Gemini and Coinbase are simply unlicensed gambling businesses that lure young users to addictive sites without proper protections. We are acting to safeguard New Yorkers and prevent these platforms from breaking the law.” Prediction Markets Encourage Underage Gambling Beyond the licensing issue, James challenges the platforms' policy of permitting users below the legal gambling age to engage. While the legal age for gambling in New York is 21, these prediction markets accept participants as young as 18. The complaint warns that “Introducing minors to online gambling poses serious risks to their mental health and financial stability,” referencing National Institutes of Health data linking early gambling exposure to higher rates of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and monetary problems. This action follows a recent lawsuit James filed against Valve, contending that the video game company's loot boxes also promote underage gambling. The lawsuits further claim that Coinbase and Gemini break state law by permitting wagers on college sports games that include teams from New York, which is expressly forbidden. James Wants Companies to Pay Back Profits James also highlights that the companies are not paying taxes like licensed sportsbooks. New York imposes a 51% tax rate on gambling operators, the nation's highest, which generated $1.32 billion in state tax revenue in the previous year. To address the financial impact, James is seeking a court order for the companies “to disgorge all illicit earnings, provide restitution to affected consumers, and pay penalties amounting to three times the profits gained from their unlawful conduct.” Multiple Legal Battles in NY Against Prediction Markets Separate from the Attorney General's lawsuits, the New York State Gaming Commission issued a cease-and-desist order to Kalshi last year. Kalshi subsequently filed a lawsuit against the regulator, which has temporarily halted enforcement pending the litigation's outcome. Kalshi and Polymarket are not defendants in the Attorney General's current cases, but both are confronting class-action lawsuits in the state where users make parallel accusations of operating illegal gambling schemes. State legislators have additionally proposed a bill that would explicitly ban prediction markets centered on sports, political outcomes, death, and war. 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) -   BGaming is set to host its Charity Gala once more on 29 May 2026, with the second edition scheduled to take place at The Phoenicia Hotel in Malta, as the company continues to place DAR Bjorn at the heart of the occasion. This fundraising event succeeds last year’s Gala, which generated €200,000 to aid in financing the new Respite Centre for DAR Bjorn. For the 2026 gathering, BGaming is pivoting its focus from construction to addressing practical care needs within the facility. The funds raised will be directed toward acquiring equipment such as ventilators, motorized beds, air mattresses, hoist lifters, and oxygen concentrators. Additionally, the money will finance four resident rooms for new admissions. BGaming confirmed that every euro collected will be donated directly to DAR Bjorn, with the company covering all production costs independently. A Second Gala With a Clearer Target DAR Bjorn was established by Bjorn Formosa, an iGaming veteran who received an ALS diagnosis at age 28. The organisation currently looks after approximately 60 residents across two centres and provides support to nearly 800 people in the community. With demand continuing to increase, the new Respite Centre is poised to deliver essential capacity for individuals suffering from ALS, MS, and other severe neurological conditions. The event will be held in the Bastion Pool area of The Phoenicia Hotel and will be conducted as an invitation-only evening catering to iGaming executives, Maltese business leaders, and philanthropists. Next.io will act as the official media partner, while Joseph Chetcuti will serve as host. The agenda features live music by Versatile, an art performance and auction by L7Matrix and Gonçalo MAR, as well as a charity raffle. BGaming also highlighted several companies that have already pledged support for the 2026 edition. Flutter, Alea, and SiGMA are on board as supporting partners. MyAffiliates has joined as a Silver Partner, while Amusnet Gaming, 1spin4win, and Finteq Hub have signed up as Bronze Partners.Marina Ostrovtsova, Chief Executive Officer at BGaming, stated: “Last year’s Gala demonstrated what is achievable when our industry unites for a common goal. Raising €200,000 in a single evening was a significant accomplishment and offered real, tangible assistance to those at DAR Bjorn who require it the most. “We are incredibly proud to return for a second year with even greater aspirations. The funds we generate this year will be dedicated to equipment that directly enhances the residents' quality of life. These contributions represent the difference between comfort and hardship for individuals living with serious neurological conditions, and we hope that both the iGaming community and the wider Maltese community will stand with us once again.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   MGM Resorts International has completed the sale of its MGM Northfield Park asset located in Ohio. The purchasing entity is Clairvest Group Inc, with the total cash transaction value reaching US$546 million. MGM Resorts noted that estimated net cash proceeds, after deducting taxes and transaction-related costs, are expected to come in at approximately US$420 million. Good to Know MGM Resorts has finalized the sale of MGM Northfield Park to funds overseen by Clairvest Group Inc for US$546 million in cash. MGM Resorts anticipates roughly US$420 million in net cash proceeds once taxes and transaction expenses are accounted for. The existing lease agreement with VICI Properties was modified upon transaction closing, reducing annual rental payments by US$53 million. MGM Resorts Unlocks Liquidity Following Northfield Park Sale Completion The newly available capital provides MGM Resorts with greater financial flexibility. Jonathan Halkyard, chief financial officer of MGM Resorts, stated: “The finalization of this transaction highlights the value of MGM’s high-quality operational capabilities, and creates an opportunity to divest a non-core regional asset at a notably higher multiple than the valuation currently assigned to our premium portfolio. “The proceeds will be allocated in line with our key priorities of maintaining a robust balance sheet, making targeted investments in growth opportunities, and returning capital to shareholders.”This rental reduction adds an extra benefit to the deal. Upon closing, the master lease agreement with VICI Properties that had previously included MGM Northfield Park was revised. Annual rent obligations dropped by US$53 million. For MGM Resorts, this means it gains cash from the sale while also lowering its recurring lease expenses at the same time. Bill Hornbuckle, chief executive and president of MGM Resorts, described MGM Northfield Park as a “market-leading property” with a “strong operational foundation”. He added: “We offer our best wishes to the property’s team and new ownership for continued success as the asset enters the next chapter of its development.” MGM Resorts has been divesting assets that fall outside of its core long-term strategy, while reserving capital for larger-scale projects and shareholder returns. One of the most significant projects on its roadmap is MGM Osaka, the integrated resort being developed in partnership with Orix Corp and local stakeholders in Japan. MGM Resorts has stated it is pursuing targeted expansion across Asia through this development, and earlier company documents have pegged its expected launch for the end of 2030.According to MGM Resorts, Northfield Park generated approximately US$142 million in Adjusted EBITDAR for the full year ending December 31, 2025. Against this context, the sale price and rental adjustment give investors a clearer understanding of how MGM Resorts values regional assets compared to the rest of its premium portfolio. 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) -   IGT has announced a significant change in its land-based gaming leadership. Mark Wadley is set to join the company as the incoming President of Land-Based Gaming, subject to regulatory approvals. His extensive responsibilities will consolidate major commercial and operational functions under a single framework. Good to Know Mark Wadley will report directly to IGT CEO Hector Fernandez. His responsibilities encompass global sales, product management, field services, manufacturing, marketing, external communications, and government relations. Wadley was previously the chief marketing officer for a global competitor of IGT. IGT Puts Land Based Gaming Under One Leader IGT is entrusting a substantial portion of its land-based gaming operations to Mark Wadley. Upon receiving the necessary approvals, he will oversee an integrated organization that includes product, commercial, and operational teams throughout the business. This organizational model places control of sales, product, service, manufacturing, marketing, communications, and government relations under a single executive. For IGT, this shift indicates a move toward a more streamlined operating model, as the company aims to better synchronize product planning with customer delivery. This conclusion is drawn from the role's extensive scope and comments from both executives. Wadley said:“IGT has all the core elements of a winning gaming business, from differentiated content to global scale and long-standing customer relationships. “The opportunity now is to operate with greater alignment and discipline, ensuring that how we develop, position, and deliver our products translates more consistently into performance for our customers. That focus on execution will define the next phase of growth.” Fernandez framed the hire in similar terms. He said: “Mark is a proven leader with a deep understanding of how to connect product, customer insight, and commercial execution to drive performance. “As we continue to strengthen our Gaming business, bringing these capabilities together under one leader is a critical step in improving how we operate and deliver for our customers. Mark’s experience will help us accelerate that progress.” Wadley brings experience from the gaming and biotech sectors, with a background in building teams, driving innovation, and achieving commercial results in dynamic markets. Industry reports also note his previous role as an executive at Aristocrat prior to joining IGT. 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 Dutch online gambling sector has reached a threshold that regulators hoped to avoid. Unlicensed operators now command a larger portion of gambling revenue than their licensed counterparts, with the KSA attributing this shift to player protection measures that are diverting expenditure from the regulated market. Good to Know The proportion of gambling spend channeled to licensed Dutch operators dropped from 51% at the close of 2024 to 49% in H1 2025. The KSA approximates illegal online Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) at €617 million, slightly exceeding the €600 million produced by licensed operators during the same timeframe. Player channelisation remained significantly higher at around 94%, indicating that while many users retain legal accounts, they are allocating some of their spending to other venues. Dutch Illegal Gambling Revenue Moves Ahead Of Legal Market The KSA stated that the legal market has lost its revenue lead. During the first six months of 2025, licensed operators yielded approximately €600 million in GGR, whereas the unlicensed online segment attained an estimated €617 million. This decline drove the channelisation rate by spend under 50%, representing a significant reversal for the Dutch regulatory framework. The regulator connects a substantial part of this downturn to stricter player protection regulations and increased gambling taxes. Deposit limits enforced in October 2024 capped deposits at €700 for players over 24 and €300 for those aged 18-24. The KSA noted these rules were designed to mitigate harm, but evidence suggests players are moving a portion of their spending to unlicensed platforms where such restrictions are absent. Legitimate gambling activity did not vanish, but revenue growth halted. Monthly active player accounts hit 1.38 million in the latter half of 2025, while licensed operator GGR remained mostly unchanged year-on-year at €602 million. This implies continued participation, but with lower average losses per account and increased financial leakage from the regulated system.The KSA additionally recorded 2,005 complaints regarding illegal gambling in 2025, a 34% rise from the previous year. As a countermeasure, it initiated Project Disconnect, an expanded enforcement strategy focused on disrupting the support infrastructure of unlicensed operators instead of targeting individual sites. Preliminary outcomes have involved the near-total elimination of paid Google search advertisements for illicit gambling sites since August 2025, along with the removal of illegal .nl domains via SIDN. Regulatory action intensified across the market. The KSA imposed fines totaling €8.6 million on five licensed operators in 2025, primarily for lapses in duty of care, and penalized four illegal operators with fines summing €31.2 million. However, the regulator highlighted that existing legislation restricts fines to a maximum of 10% of an operator's global GGR, curbing the impact on offshore entities. The KSA is currently in discussions with the Ministry of Justice to amend this regulation. The consequences are also becoming apparent in the state's financial accounts. The KSA disclosed an €11.1 million budget deficit for 2025, which incorporates a €5.3 million gap in gambling tax income associated with reduced legal spending following the implementation of deposit limits. 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) -   Caixa has paused its online betting venture as Brazil navigates a new phase of conflict over gambling policies. The state-owned bank will no longer aim for a 2026 launch and has stated it will await clearer federal guidance before entering the fixed-odds betting market. Key Points Caixa will suspend the BRL 30 million license payment associated with its inactive betting authorization. A bill proposed by the Workers' Party, PL 1808/2026, seeks to prohibit online gambling, with the exception of state lottery products. President Lula has publicly expressed support for a nationwide ban on online betting platforms, though this would require legislative approval. Caixa Withdraws Amidst Ongoing Uncertainty in Brazil's Betting Regulations Following the payment for a federal license and obtaining approval to operate BetCaixa, MegaBet, and Xbet Caixa, Caixa has now put the project on hold. The bank indicated that no platform contracts have been finalized and no penalties are applicable, adding that any decisions regarding fixed-odds betting must adhere to technical, legal, sustainability, and federal policy standards. Political considerations are at the forefront of this delay. A faction within the Workers' Party has introduced PL 1808/2026, aiming to outlaw online gambling throughout Brazil, excluding state-operated lottery services. Concurrently, President Lula has separately voiced his preference for a national prohibition on online betting platforms. Reports also suggest his administration is considering stricter regulations concerning advertising and access for financially vulnerable populations, including recipients of the Bolsa Família program. This situation places Caixa in a challenging position. Earlier, Carlos Vieira had promoted betting as a significant avenue for growth, projecting revenues of BRL 18 billion within two years and aiming to establish the state lender as a major player in one of the world's largest regulated betting markets. Instead of joining private operators, Caixa is now observing from the sidelines as Brasília deliberates whether to further restrict the market or eliminate it entirely.The postponement has also prompted scrutiny from auditors. The Brazil Federal Court of Accounts is seeking explanations regarding the unused license, the planned launch schedule, and the compliance measures in place for identity verification, responsible gaming, and addiction control. Industry associations have cautioned that each year of delay weakens the position of the physical lottery network while private digital operators continue to expand. 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) -   Portal has made a significant shift away from its previous crypto-focused identity. The platform is now being repositioned as an AI-powered game creation layer targeting developers and independent creators, with Benjamin Charbit heading the revamp and Animoca Brands supporting the next stage. Good to Know Portal 2.0 places AI-native game creation tools at the core of the platform. Benjamin Charbit—ex-Ubisoft director associated with Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag—now leads the new structure as CEO. Animoca Brands is supporting the relaunch, which follows the Portal and BLIFE merger announced in late 2025. Portal 2.0 Redefines Its Platform Around AI Game Creation Portal is no longer primarily positioning itself as a crypto gaming platform. With the Portal 2.0 relaunch, the company is moving toward AI tools designed for quicker game development, reduced technical hurdles, and creator-centric workflows. Benjamin Charbit now heads the platform. His experience includes time at Ubisoft and involvement in Assassin’s Creed IV Black Flag, and the new vision is straightforward: leverage AI to assist creators in building games more quickly, with fewer technical obstacles and increased automation throughout the process. The product lineup focuses on AI agent coordination, asset creation, and fast prototyping. Portal is also promoting no-to-low-code workflows and prompt-to-game tools, with the goal of providing smaller studios and indie creators a more efficient path from idea to playable prototype.Animoca Brands is a backer in this reset, and the wider ecosystem remains intact. Portal still highlights its connections to projects like The Sandbox, Anichess, and Cross The Ages, while working to transition its existing token community into a new model focused more on AI creation than crypto infrastructure. The transition is drastic. Portal previously aligned more with cross-chain gaming and crypto infrastructure. Now it seeks a spot in the AI game development competition, where speed, tools, and creator accessibility are emerging as key selling points. This conclusion is drawn from the relaunch messaging, product priorities, and leadership shift. 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) -   Political efforts to restrict gambling advertisements have resurfaced in Ontario. A proposed bill from the Liberal party seeks to prohibit the majority of advertising by licensed online sportsbooks and iGaming providers, though its chances of becoming law remain slim. Good to Know Introduced by Lee Fairclough, Bill 107 is co-sponsored by Stephen Blais, John Fraser, and Ted Hsu. The legislation aims to prohibit television commercials, social media marketing, and paid sponsorships from licensed gambling operators. Ontario has previously strengthened its rules on gambling ads, imposing restrictions on the use of athletes and celebrities. Ontario Liberals Reintroduce Proposal to Ban Gambling Ads Lee Fairclough introduced Bill 107 at Queen's Park on Monday. Dubbed the Stop Harmful Gambling Advertising Act, 2026, it would modify the Gaming Control Act to outlaw the advertising and promotion of gambling sites by licensed Ontario operators on television, social media, and through paid sponsorships. Companies that violate the rules could be fined up to $1 million for an initial offence, with subsequent infractions risking the loss of their operating licence. Fairclough linked the bill to worries about addiction following Ontario's 2022 launch of a privatized online gambling market. She noted that approximately 50 private gambling firms are now marketing their services widely, coinciding with an increase in individuals seeking gambling support from ConnexOntario.The bill's political prospects are challenging. The Ontario Liberals remain the legislature's third party, a position they held when John Fraser advocated for stricter marketing regulations in 2023. Therefore, despite renewed focus on sports betting commercials, iCasino promotions, and gambling sponsorships, passing the legislation appears to be an uphill battle. Nevertheless, the bill's introduction is significant. It demonstrates that public frustration with gambling advertisements during sports broadcasts persists, and it comes as the federal government in Ottawa also considers broader restrictions. Provincial regulators have already addressed some concerns by banning athlete endorsements, limiting celebrity involvement, and prohibiting bonus-bet ads on most public channels. Bill 107 seeks to extend these efforts significantly by aiming to eliminate wide-ranging promotional activities by operators at the provincial level. 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) -   Resorts World is poised to make a significant change in New York. Provided the New York State Gaming Commission gives its final approval this week, the Queens venue will debut live table games on Tuesday, April 28, marking the first time a casino in New York City has offered them. Good to Know Resorts World reports that over 240 live table games are scheduled to open on the renovated third floor on April 28, subject to final regulatory approval. This launch provides Queens with a substantial advantage, as the facility is already operational, unlike other downstate license holders who have lengthy construction periods ahead. The opening is creating 1,250 new positions, 950 of which are for table game dealers, with total employment projected to exceed 2,700 by the summer. Resorts World Opens The Door To Live Tables In Queens After years of operating solely as a slots destination adjacent to Aqueduct Racetrack, Resorts World is on the verge of a major expansion. Genting has announced that blackjack, craps, baccarat, and roulette will be activated next week, joining thousands of slot machines and multi-million dollar jackpots, following the conclusion of state testing. This timing is critically important. Having secured one of three downstate casino licenses in December 2025, Resorts World's existing infrastructure allows it to introduce live tables much more quickly than its competitors. Projects like Metropolitan Park near Citi Field and the Bally's proposal at Ferry Point are not expected to open for several years. Robert DeSalvio, President of Genting Americas East, stated:“What we have planned for April 28 is unprecedented for New York City. Upon the Gaming Commission's final sign-off, live table games will be up and running here in Queens for the first time in the city's history. We are prepared to greet New Yorkers with this thrilling new offering. “Our team at Resorts World has already grown to over 2,200 employees, and we anticipate adding thousands more as the integrated resort evolves over the next three years. This is a pivotal moment for Resorts World New York City, and we are eager to experience it with our neighbors.” The scale of the hiring effort is notable by itself. The introduction of table games has created 1,250 jobs, with 950 new dealers among them. The property's current workforce stands at 2,200 and is forecast to surpass 2,700 by summer. Its dealer school has already qualified and employed more than 400 people from the local area, with an additional 500 graduates anticipated by May. Another training initiative started in 2022 has provided gaming operations instruction to over 350 local residents. On opening day, the celebrations will match the occasion. Queens native Nas is scheduled to participate alongside Genting chairman KT Lim, public officials, and community figures for the ribbon-cutting ceremony and a symbolic first roll of the dice.Looking further ahead, Genting's vision extends well beyond the new gaming floor. The complete development plan includes 6,000 slot machines, 800 live table games, 2,000 hotel rooms, a 7,000-seat concert venue, over 12 acres of public parkland, a full-service spa, and an innovation hub based around the Jet Center, associated with Kenny “The Jet” Smith. Resorts World has been in operation in Queens since 2011 and claims to have contributed $5 billion to the state's education fund. 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) -   Google took down large quantities of gambling ads in 2025, and regulatory pressure continues to mount. New data from the tech giant indicates that betting and gaming remained among the top problematic categories for online advertisements. Good to Know In 2025, Google either blocked or removed 270.7 million ads related to gambling and gaming. Over 99% of policy-violating ads were halted before being served to users, with a total of more than 8.3 billion ads blocked or removed across all categories. In 2026, both Brazil and Europe increased pressure—Brazil over concerns about unauthorized betting apps, and Europe via stricter certification rules for gambling ads. Google Reduces Gambling Ads Amid Growing Regulatory Pressure Gambling and gaming were among the most frequently blocked ad categories in Google’s latest Ads Safety Report. The company reported blocking or removing 270.7 million ads in this segment in 2025, while an additional 123.9 million were restricted. Google also noted that Gemini-powered systems helped stop over 99% of violating ads before they were displayed. Keerat Sharma, vice president and general manager of ads privacy and safety at Google, said: “Our teams have long used advanced AI to identify and stop scammers, and Gemini takes that work even further. Our models analyse hundreds of billions of signals — including account age, behavioural cues and campaign patterns — to stop threats before they reach people. “Unlike earlier keyword-based systems, our latest models better understand intent, helping us spot malicious content and preemptively block it, even when it’s designed to evade detection.” Google’s broader enforcement efforts were extensive in 2025. The company suspended 24.9 million advertiser accounts, including 4 million linked to scams, and removed 602 million scam-related ads. Enforcement actions also targeted publisher content, with measures applied to more than 480 million web pages. Beyond Google’s own platforms, regulators are ramping up pressure on distribution channels. In Brazil, the Ministry of Justice and Public Security stated that Google Play and the App Store contained over 120 betting apps without federal authorization and proper age-access controls. Google has already tightened its gambling ad rules in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Starting March 23, 2026, accounts seeking gambling and games certification must demonstrate good policy compliance, and repeated violations can lead to certification revocation across managed 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) -   New York has targeted two prediction market operators directly. Attorney General Letitia James states that Coinbase and Gemini Titan provided event contracts which violate state gambling laws. Good to Know New York is seeking damages, fines, profit forfeiture, and user compensation. The state claims both platforms allowed 18-year-olds to trade in a market where sports betting requires users to be 21. Coinbase started offering event contracts in January, while Gemini Titan obtained CFTC approval in December 2025. New York Files Gambling Lawsuit Against Coinbase And Gemini Titan Instead of waiting for federal proceedings to play out, New York took legal action. James filed a suit in Manhattan Supreme Court, alleging Coinbase and Gemini Titan ran illegal gambling operations by offering sports and other event contracts without a state license. The case covers more than just licensing issues. New York says both platforms gave younger users access to products tied to uncertain outcomes, neglected state tax obligations, and offered contracts involving in-state college teams—something legal sportsbooks in New York are forbidden from doing. James said:“Gambling by another name is still gambling, and it is not exempt from regulation under our state laws and Constitution. “Gemini and Coinbase’s so-called prediction markets are just illegal gambling operations, exposing young people to addictive platforms that lack necessary guardrails. My office is taking action to protect New Yorkers and stop these platforms from breaking the law.” New York is seeking a temporary restraining order and a preliminary injunction. James also wants fines, profit forfeiture, and restitution. Coinbase alone faces an alleged $2.2 billion in damages. Coinbase entered the event contract space in January with markets linked to sports, elections, and entertainment. Gemini Titan, developed by Gemini Space Station, received CFTC approval as a Designated Contract Market in December 2025. Even so, New York argues state law still applies because the products meet the legal definition of gambling.This argument rests on a simple point: in the attorney general’s view, users are staking money on outcomes outside their control or on games of chance. Under New York law, that is gambling, no matter what label a platform uses. 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 Montreal Canadiens and Tampa Bay Lightning face off this evening for Game 2 of their first-round NHL playoff series. The game begins at 7 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on ESPN2. Montreal secured a surprise victory in Game 1 on Sunday, led by Juraj Slafkovsky’s overtime goal which completed his hat trick in the 4-3 win. For tonight's matchup, DraftKings lists Tampa Bay as a -192 home favorite, with the over/under set at 5.5. Currently, the Lightning have attracted 76% of the total bets and 83% of the betting tickets. Leading Player Props: Canadiens vs. Lightning With Tampa Bay anticipated to recover, we have identified three player props for the Lightning and one for the Canadiens. Andrei Vasilevskiy OVER 21.5 Saves (-110) Andrei Vasilevskiy entered the postseason as the premier goaltender. His regular-season goals against average of 2.33 was second only to Colorado’s Scott Wedgewood (2.07). However, Wedgewood only made his first NHL playoff start during Sunday’s victory over the Kings. Consequently, we anticipate the veteran Vasilevskiy will bounce back tonight after recording just 15 saves in the series opener. Nikita Kucherov OVER 1.5 Points (+105) Nikita Kucherov finished the regular season with 130 points, trailing only Edmonton’s Connor McDavid for the league lead. Kucherov maintained his high level of play in Game 1, recording two assists and firing five shots on goal. Given that Tampa Bay is expected to dominate Montreal’s youthful defensive unit, Kucherov should be able to secure at least two points. Jake Guentzel OVER 2.5 Shots (-150) While the odds are a bit steep, Jake Guentzel plays a key role alongside Kucherov in maintaining offensive pressure for the Bolts. Guentzel had four shots on goal in the first game. He has surpassed this shot total in four of his previous six outings, including a four-shot performance against Montreal late in the regular season. Juraj Slafkovsky Anytime Goal Scorer (+195) It is surprising that Slafkovsky’s odds remain this high considering his scoring record against Tampa Bay. Beyond Sunday’s hat trick, the talented winger also netted four goals across four regular-season meetings with the Lightning. He also led all players with seven shots on goal against Vasilevskiy in Game 1. With his knack for generating dangerous opportunities, he is a strong candidate to find the net tonight. 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) -   Law enforcement authorities in Hong Kong and Mainland Chinese provinces are intensifying crackdowns on unlawful gambling activities in public spaces, with dozens of people taken into custody via a series of targeted raids. According to reports from Chinese media outlet China.com, Hong Kong police launched an operation on April 16 to dismantle an illegal street gambling syndicate operating in Kwai Chung. Police confirmed four Hong Kong residents were arrested at the scene. All suspects are male, ranging in age from 68 at the youngest to 82 at the oldest. Investigators stated they seized gambling equipment and an unrevealed sum of cash during the operation. Cases of all the arrested individuals will be heard jointly at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts on April 30. A residential housing complex in Kwai Chung, Hong Kong. (Image: WiNG [CC BY-SA 3.0]) Gambling Crackdown Efforts Across China Separately, in Hangzhou province, the provincial Public Security Bureau reported that police in Xindeng utilized drone technology to identify and arrest a group of people suspected of gambling at a hillside pavilion inside a public cemetery. Police said they took 13 people into custody and confiscated 10,000 yuan (nearly $1,470) worth of gambling proceeds. Officers also seized assorted gambling equipment at the site. Detectives noted the suspects selected the spot because it was isolated and hard to access. But after police spotted a suspicious group of people gathering at the pavilion on April 14, they deployed a drone. Five minutes later, officers said, the drone transmitted "clear footage of several people assembled in the pavilion placing wagers." Officers confirmed they have charged all suspects with gambling-related offenses, adding that the investigation is still ongoing. Rising Occurrence of Forest Gambling Police across China say they are cracking down on a sharp increase in the so-called "forest gambling" activity. This form of gambling usually involves groups of bettors arranging to meet in remote, mostly rural locations. The gamblers reportedly believe unlawful gambling is low-risk if conducted in areas that police do not regularly patrol. But Chinese police note they now have access to a wide range of drone-powered technologies that help them search for groups of gamblers in woodland areas, abandoned structures, lakeside resorts and mountainous zones. Some police agencies have also dispatched small teams of officers to carry out daily outdoor foot patrols in remote and semi-rural areas. These patrols typically monitor activities in narrow small village alleys and deep forested areas to curb the growth of "forest gambling" rings. 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.