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(AsiaGameHub) -   Authorities in Indonesia have cautioned that the upcoming World Cup is expected to lead to a significant surge in online gambling activities within the country. All forms of sports betting are prohibited in Indonesia. However, despite ongoing enforcement efforts, numerous offshore gambling websites continue to offer sports betting services to individuals residing in Indonesia. Soccer is overwhelmingly the most popular sport in Indonesia. Historically, betting activity has intensified in anticipation of major tournaments, such as the World Cup, and during matches involving the Indonesian national team. The Indonesian National Police (Polri) anticipates that the forthcoming World Cup will follow this trend. The tournament is scheduled to commence on June 11, and a notable increase in betting-related activities is already being observed globally. During a press conference, senior Polri officials urged the public to report any World Cup-themed online gambling operations through a designated hotline. Individuals caught engaging in illegal sports gambling face potential jail sentences of up to five years and fines reaching $66,000. Operators and promoters of such activities can be imprisoned for up to 10 years and fined up to $660,000. Illegal sports betting platforms commonly provide odds on matches from the Indonesian Super League and the national team, as well as major European leagues like the English Premier League. The Indonesian national soccer team competing against Vietnam in 2024. (Image: Timnas Indonesia [CC BY 3.0]) Is a World Cup ‘Explosion’ of Illegal Gambling Imminent? Brigadier General Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko, who heads Polri’s Public Information Bureau, stated: “We must collectively prepare for an increase in soccer gambling. We must prevent malicious actors from exploiting the excitement surrounding the World Cup to promote illegal activities that could result in harm.” Polri officials also advised citizens to refrain from causing public disturbances during the World Cup, as reported by the Indonesian news outlet Tempo. Furthermore, they encouraged the public to avoid illegal streaming services and to steer clear of unauthorized World Cup viewing gatherings. Many illegal sports betting services targeting Indonesian users often feature live streams that are pirated from legitimate broadcasters. A study released in January, commissioned by a US-based payment provider, indicated that 19% of individuals interested in the World Cup intend to place their first online bet during the tournament. The same study revealed that 60% of surveyed fans in North America, Europe, and Latin America plan to wager on World Cup-related events. In US states where sports betting is legal, 62% of respondents indicated their intention to bet on the World Cup. Nearly one-third of those surveyed in these states mentioned that World Cup wagers would be their initial bets. Government Declares ‘No Mercy’ Stance In parallel, the Indonesian government has declared a policy of “no mercy” towards illegal gambling operators who target minors. “We must address online gambling, scams, and various crimes that target children and vulnerable populations with greater stringency. This commitment applies this year, next year, and into the future. There will be zero tolerance in this regard,” stated Meutya Hafid, the country’s Minister of Communication and Digital. The minister pledged increased government backing for crackdowns on illegal gambling, as reported by the Indonesian media outlet Harian Jogja. “Criminals are now leveraging digital solutions and advanced technology,” she commented. “Consequently, we must significantly enhance the digital services we employ for prosecution and monitoring.” In Italy, recent court rulings have resulted in fines for two prominent soccer players who were found to have bet on games within the league in which they played. 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) -   Indonesia’s government has frozen a total of 33,252 bank accounts after identifying that the account holders used online casino platforms for gambling. The Financial Services Authority (OJK), Indonesia’s leading financial regulatory body, confirmed it instructed commercial banks to implement these freezes, locking up funds worth millions of dollars. The OJK operates an automated detection system that sifts through transaction data from commercial bank accounts to find evidence of gambling-related activity. These transactions typically involve deposits to or withdrawals from platforms flagged as online casino sites. Online casino usage is illegal in Indonesia. Courts can impose severe penalties on offenders, including long prison sentences, substantial fines, and even corporal punishment. The OJK states that commercial banks use Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) checks to follow up on suspected cases of online gambling. The anti-money-laundering agency, the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center, can also suspend or cancel welfare benefit payments not only for gamblers but for their entire families as well. To date, the center has halted benefit disbursements to over 600,000 families as part of gambling-related investigations. Indonesia Freezes 1,000 Accounts in the Last Month An OJK executive, speaking at a press conference, said the agency has blocked around 1,000 accounts in just the past four weeks. The OJK also called on banks to “strengthen their verification checks” by matching data with citizens’ National Identity Numbers (NIKs), according to Indonesian media outlet Infobank News. Despite the OJK’s crackdown, police report that a wave of online casino-related crimes continues to gain momentum. In many cases, desperate gamblers are stirring up attention on social media with fabricated mugging and robbery stories, as reported by Indonesian media outlet Kompas. Officers said the most recent of these incidents occurred in South Kalimantan on May 6, where residents found a traveling meatball (bakso) vendor lying by the roadside in the village of Jilatan. An Indonesian mobile meatball (bakso) vendor. (Image: Elicefa [CC BY-SA 4.0]) Residents took pictures of the man, who later told them he had been the victim of a violent assault. He claimed two motorbike-riding attackers had beaten him and stolen his money. After filing a police report, detectives questioned the vendor and found inconsistencies in his statement. “The information he provided does not correspond to the facts on the ground or the results of our investigations,” said a police official. When challenged, the vendor reportedly confessed he had invented the whole story “due to pressing economic needs.” A police official said the robbery “was staged so that the vendor’s wife would believe he had been robbed and was therefore unable to provide any money.” Additional Fabricated Mugging Reports Police in several other parts of the country have reported similar cases in recent months. In January, a man in Pacitan Regency, East Java, sold his motorbike to a friend, slashed his own hand with a knife, and then filed a bogus police report. He told officers he had been mugged by bandits but later confessed to inventing the story after losing around $200 gambling online. In March, a man in Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi Province, posted about a “violent mugging” on social media. The post went viral, with the man claiming he had been attacked in the street. Police followed up and found he had also fabricated the story to “avoid a scolding from his wife.” Civil law courts across the country, meanwhile, have reported a sharp rise in online casino-related divorces. Judges and court clerks in many parts of Indonesia have recently stated that gambling is now the leading cause of divorce. Several courts say women initiate most of these divorces after their husbands’ gambling habits lead to a collapse in family finances. 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) -   While some states are moving to prohibit prediction market platforms, Pennsylvania legislators are looking to capitalize on the trend. A proposed bill would impose a $1 million charge for an event wagering license and require operators to remit 20% of in-state revenue as tax. Twelve Democrats are backing House Bill 2497, which was filed in Pennsylvania on Friday. It would place prediction markets under oversight similar to sports betting, though at a reduced rate. Sportsbooks currently face a $10 million licensing fee and a 36% tax on revenue to the state. The bill would assign the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board regulatory authority over prediction markets, as it holds for sports betting and casinos. Bill Introduces New Age Limit and Market Limits Alongside the fees, the bill would restrict prediction market participation to individuals aged 21 or older, aligning with the state’s legal gambling age. The legislation would also permit the Board to restrict certain markets tied to “sensitive matters,” including elections, military conflicts, judicial rulings, and natural disasters. Individuals are likewise barred from using prediction markets for money laundering, insider trading, or gains derived from nonpublic information. Users may not leverage “nonpublic information acquired through employment, position, or social or business connections, or otherwise, to obtain financial or other benefit.” Last week, political campaign staff acknowledged using nonpublic polling data to place bets on prediction markets, an act that would be unlawful under the bill’s provisions. Insider Trading Incidents Drive Lawmakers to Act One sponsor, Rep. Tarik Khan, cited high-profile insider trading cases as motivation to regulate the sector, such as a U.S. special forces soldier who won $400,000 betting on the capture of Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela. “We have an obligation to ensure these markets are legitimate and that participants are not being defrauded,” Khan said. “The idea that insiders with privileged information can exploit the system and profit at the expense of those playing fairly is a concern.” The bill would also prohibit wagering on high school sports, which Khan described as “common sense.” “There is simply too much risk of undermining the integrity of these sports,” he said. “That is an issue.” Oversight or Ban? Although the bill imposes certain restrictions on prediction markets, its primary aim is regulation rather than prohibition. Notably, it does not prevent platforms from offering sports markets, except for high school events. This approach contrasts with that of other states. In Minnesota, lawmakers are advancing a bill to ban sports prediction markets, meme markets, and election wagering. Legal disputes between state regulators and prediction markets are also underway in at least 16 states. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) is actively defending its licensed operators, filing suits in New York, Arizona, Connecticut, and Illinois. Given the agency’s claim of exclusive jurisdiction over the industry, it is unlikely to support Pennsylvania’s legislation and would probably contest the state’s authority to enact the proposed measures if the bill becomes law. 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) -   Chinese police continue to hunt groups of gamblers who congregate in abandoned buildings, fields, and forests in an attempt to evade detection. In their latest raid, officers in the Honggu District of Lanzhou, in Gansu Province, arrested 34 people, the Lanzhou Public Security Bureau announced in an official release. The group was found in an abandoned house on a commercial street, police said. Detectives seized over 90,000 yuan in cash at the scene, worth over $13,000. The raid was part of a crackdown codenamed Operation Spring Thunder. Chinese Police Scour Abandoned Buildings for Gambling Dens The operation is a response to a rise in so-called “forest gambling,” which sees gamblers avoid heavily policed areas by congregating in condemned or empty buildings to place bets. Other “forest gambling” groups choose rural spots that police seldom patrol. Police have grown wise to this and are using drone technology and other solutions to track illegal gambling rings. Their efforts have produced results. In recent weeks, officers have arrested suspected gambling ring members in rural cemeteries, near train stations, and woodland areas. Chinese police officers arrested suspects during a raid on an alleged gambling den in an abandoned building. (Image: Lanzhou Public Security Bureau) As part of their Honggu operations, police explained that they had launched a multi-departmental investigation, along with the Public Security Brigade and colleagues from Ping’an. Officers tracked the gambling group for weeks, conducting “comprehensive analysis and in-depth investigations.” They said their investigation revealed that the ring was “tightly organized with a clear division of labor.” Some of the ring’s organizers were allegedly tasked with preparing the venue for patrons. Others worked on stake collection and payout processing. Others still took up lookout duties, police said. Police seized cash during their raid. (Image: Lanzhou Public Security Bureau) Careful Planning Detectives said they investigated the gambling ring’s activity patterns, organizational structure, and plans for the building ahead of the raid. Several suspects, including two individuals surnamed Xu and one surnamed Ma, reportedly confessed to “repeatedly organizing gambling activities,” involving a range of dice-based games. Police have retained eight suspects in custody ahead of a court hearing. These individuals, police say, were the ring’s main organizers. Detectives said the remaining 26 arrestees were patrons. The authorities have issued all of these patrons with undisclosed administrative penalties. The bureau said the case is still active as police hunt for additional suspected patrons and organizers associated with the ring. 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) -   There was a dramatic odds shift in the Sean Brady vs. Joaquin Buckley fight at UFC 328 on Saturday. Despite some bookmakers suspending markets, the bout proceeded as scheduled. Brady had been favored to win at odds of approximately -175. By Saturday afternoon, bookmakers reversed their position, making Buckley the favorite—moving from +150 to about -220. Several bookmakers temporarily suspended betting on certain markets and imposed lower stake limits on the main moneyline. Unusual betting patterns observed from closely monitored accounts ahead of tonight’s Sean Brady vs. Joaquin Buckley bout at UFC 328.Prop bets are closed; main market has reduced betting limits.Buckley has surged to -205 favorite despite previously being an underdog throughout.— Dave Mason (@DaveMasonBOL) May 9, 2026 UFC Reached Out to Brady Prior to Fight In response to suspicious betting activity, the UFC contacted Brady before his fight to verify that everything was in order. During a post-fight press conference, he was questioned about the “odd betting lines that had occurred earlier.” “Someone from the UFC called me a couple of hours before my fight to check that I was okay,” Brady disclosed. He confirmed he was unharmed and stated that he did not realize he had gone from favorite to underdog. The UFC representative did not explain the cause of the sudden odds change. Sean Brady recounts how UFC reached out after massive betting drop on his fight against Joaquin Buckley:“A person from the UFC contacted me a couple hours before my fight to make sure I was alright.I told them, ‘I’m completely fine. There’s nothing wrong with me.’They…”— Home of Fight (@Home_of_Fight) May 10, 2026 Rumors spread across social media and betting forums suggesting Brady had undergone knee drainage backstage. It remains unclear whether these rumors alone caused the sharp odds movement. On prediction platform Polymarket, Brady’s chance of winning dropped from 61% to 36.5% by fight time. Over $2 million was wagered on the contest. Previous Incidents Heightened UFC’s Vigilance The UFC has heightened its awareness of irregular betting patterns following the Isaac Dulgarian incident last November. Dulgarian also shifted from favorite to underdog in his match against Yadier del Valle, who secured a first-round submission victory. Following that fight, the UFC reported the matter to the FBI and released Dulgarian. The fighter has not publicly commented on the situation, and the investigation continues. In January, UFC CEO Dana White canceled a lightweight bout between Alexander Hernandez and Michael Johnson in Las Vegas after betting integrity systems flagged suspicious wagers. Brady Outclasses Buckley Despite Odds In this instance, once the UFC confirmed Brady was healthy, the fight took place as planned. Brady controlled the action and won by unanimous decision. He landed significantly more strikes than Buckley—245 to 21 overall, and 77 to 4 in “significant” strikes. “This camp, this fight, I locked in hard for those full fifteen minutes—that’s exactly what happened,” Brady remarked after the bout. “I didn’t finish him, but no one has ever dominated Buckley like that.” 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) -   Roman Stoica claimed victory in the 2026 PokerStars European Poker Tour Monte Carlo €5,300 no-limit hold’em main event, defeating Bernhard Binder heads-up at Sporting Monte-Carlo. The tournament attracted 1,011 entries, marking the sixth-largest field in EPT history, and Stoica secured €825,000, equivalent to approximately $965,250. Key Facts Roman Stoica triumphed over a field of 1,011 players in the EPT Monte Carlo main event. The total prize pool amounted to around $5.74 million. Bernhard Binder finished second, earning $602,550 despite starting the final day as chip leader. Stoica Achieves His Largest Live Tournament Payout The 31-year-old St. Petersburg native now boasts nearly $1.6 million in live tournament earnings. His win at Monte Carlo surpassed his previous best result—a $431,367 payout from a €3,250 mystery bounty event during the 2025 EPT Barcelona festival. This triumph also grants Stoica one of the premier titles on the European poker circuit. After the decisive hand, he told PokerStars representatives: “I’m very happy that I’ve become an EPT champion. This is every poker player’s dream,”He continued: “I’m feeling great… I just won €825,000, so how else can I feel!” The 18th edition of EPT Monte Carlo distributed prizes to 151 participants from a total pot of $5,736,920. Notable players who cashed included Juha Helppi, Derk van Luijk, Joao Vieira, Benjamin Pollak, Benny Glaser, Dimitar Danchev, Thomas Eychenne, Boris Kolev, Mehdi Chaoui, Ognyan Dimov, Jason Wheeler, and Leonard Maue. Binder entered the final day leading the chip counts. The Austrian had already captured major victories at the 2025 World Series of Poker Paradise super main event in December and the 2026 Triton Jeju $125,000 high roller in March, making another significant result part of an impressive streak at the highest level.At the final table, Oshri Lahmani was eliminated first, followed by Raul Mestre and Longmao Fan. Stoica then secured crucial all-in wins against Jose Malpelli before seizing control against David Djian, who placed third after calling on the river with a flush attempt, only to lose to Stoica’s made flush. Samuel Ju finished fourth after Binder hit Broadway on the river. Heads-up play began with Stoica holding roughly a 3-to-1 chip advantage. Binder connected with a pair on the final board, but Stoica held trips on the flop with 75 against 774. Binder called Stoica’s river shove with queens and sevens, allowing Stoica to claim the EPT Monte Carlo main event championship. 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) -   Mega Casino has launched Blazing Rainbows, a new Playtech slot available exclusively on its platform before a broader release. Good to Know Blazing Rainbows is now available exclusively at Mega Casino. Playtech developed the game with cascading wins, prize symbols, and free games. The slot features medium volatility and offers a maximum win of up to 10,000x the bet. Playtech Slot Gets Early Release At Mega Casino Mega Casino has gained early access to Blazing Rainbows, the latest online slot from Playtech. The casino, part of Kinetic Digital, already offers a variety of Playtech casino and live casino games. Blazing Rainbows features a vibrant visual theme centered around pots of gold, prize symbols, and cascading reels. Its key gameplay element revolves around an overlay feature that transforms a single spin into multiple winning opportunities as symbols fall and consecutive wins chain together. The game also includes a Free Games round with progressive levels. Higher prize tiers, such as the Five Oceans level, provide players with a pathway to larger payouts. Playtech has set the maximum win potential at up to 10,000x the stake, while the medium volatility ensures broad appeal among both casual and regular slot players.For Mega Casino, this exclusive early release adds another unique title to its online casino lineup and provides players with access ahead of the game’s wider market launch. Kinetic Digital Head of Brand Marketing Dom Aldworth commented: “Launching Blazing Rainbows exclusively is a fantastic opportunity for us to deliver something truly vibrant and engaging to our players before the rest of the market. This is a standout title, both visually and in how it delivers sustained excitement throughout gameplay. It’s exactly the type of high-quality, feature-rich content our players expect from us. By collaborating with Playtech on this early release, we’re reinforcing our commitment to offering first-to-market experiences that feel fresh, rewarding, and genuinely entertaining every time you play.” 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 gambling gains prominence on university grounds and throughout Pennsylvania, Penn State has introduced a new initiative focused on responsible gaming. Key Information The “Know the Odds” campaign is being led by the Penn State Collegiate Recovery Community. Emphasis is placed on early intervention, raising awareness, and reducing the stigma associated with gambling addiction. Last week, Happy Valley Casino debuted in State College, featuring slot machines, table games, dining options, and a bar. University Recovery Group Highlights Gambling Dangers Via its Collegiate Recovery Community (CRC), Penn State is integrating gambling harm prevention into the broader dialogue regarding recovery on campus. This organization, dedicated to assisting students and faculty in addiction recovery, operates the “Know the Odds” initiative. Its goal is to enable earlier detection of gambling issues and reduce the embarrassment associated with seeking assistance. This initiative’s launch coincides with the recent opening of Happy Valley Casino in State College. Located in the space previously occupied by Macy’s at Nittany Mall, the venue offers 600 slots, 30 table games, two eateries, and a bar.Last week, CRC also conducted a webinar addressing the risks of addiction and problem gambling. Jason Whitney, the CRC director, stated: “Gambling activates various biochemical processes that closely resemble those seen in serious drug addiction. “Even without external drug use, gambling acts like an addiction to the chemicals produced by your own body.” Pennsylvania continues to stand as one of the biggest regulated gambling markets in the United States. The state recorded $602.4 million in total gaming revenue across all sectors in March, marking a 4.9% increase from 2025.Nevertheless, worries regarding gambling on college campuses have escalated with the rise of legal sports betting. With online sportsbooks increasing accessibility, experts caution that an increasing number of students view betting as an integral part of the college experience. According to Whitney, recovery involves more than just a temporary break from gambling. He remarked: “The primary objective of recovery isn't simply to stop. “It is about sustaining that cessation and upholding the lifestyle change. One must treat it with the seriousness it deserves, acknowledging it can destroy lives or be fatal. Suicide is the primary way this disease results in death.” Penn State is not the only institution taking action. Carnegie Mellon University has introduced a curriculum that explores wagering via statistics and cognitive science, while also tackling the subject of gambling addiction. Betting-related challenges persist in college sports. Reports emerged last week indicating that Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby is facing an NCAA investigation regarding alleged bets made during his time at Indiana University, which reportedly included wagers on his own team.This is not the first instance of Penn State proactively educating its student body about the potential harms of gambling. Back in February 2025, Penn State’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) issued a warning to students regarding the risks of sports betting amid its growing availability. 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) -   Ainsworth Game Technology Ltd has confirmed Ryan Comstock as its new chief executive, with the appointment taking effect immediately. The Australia-listed slot machine manufacturer stated that Comstock already possesses the necessary gaming regulatory licensing approvals from his previous roles at the company. He joined Ainsworth in 2012, was appointed chief operating officer in 2018, and assumed the acting CEO position on October 13, 2025, following Harald Neumann's resignation. Ainsworth explained that its board evaluated Comstock during the six months he served as acting CEO before finalizing the permanent appointment. The company noted: “The board assessed that Mr Comstock has the required attributes and experience developed across all operational areas of the company to fulfill the role of CEO.” Ainsworth also highlighted his deep understanding of the business and the initiatives he spearheaded during his interim tenure. It added:“His comprehensive knowledge across all operational areas of the company, along with the initiatives he implemented, were taken into account when making this decision.” Comstock will be paid a base salary of $625,000 annually. His contract is open-ended and remains subject to periodic review by the board. 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) -   Macau’s gaming tax receipts reached just over MOP9.07 billion, equivalent to roughly $1.12 billion, in April, based on fresh data released by the Financial Services Bureau. The April figure was 2.3% higher than the MOP8.87 billion logged in March. Over the first four months of 2026, Macau has gathered MOP34.87 billion in gaming tax revenue, a 16.9% increase compared with the same stretch last year. Gaming Still Drives Most Of Macau Revenue Casino-related taxes remain the primary pillar of Macau’s public finances. Gaming taxes accounted for nearly 86.5% of the MOP40.30 billion in current government revenue recorded through April 30. Under the 10-year concession system effective since January 1, 2023, Macau levies an effective 40% tax on casino gross gaming revenue, with the six concessionaires operating within this framework. Nevertheless, tax receipts do not correspond directly to casino GGR for the same calendar period. Payments typically arrive at government offices after operators report GGR, so the figures may reflect timing differences between gaming activity and tax registration.For the full 2026 year, the government projects gaming tax revenue of nearly MOP92.53 billion. The MOP34.87 billion collected in the first four months already represents approximately 37.9% of that annual target. 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 online sportsbooks had one of their strongest spring performances since the launch of online betting, with April revenue significantly outpacing the growth in total wagers. Good to Know New York online sportsbooks earned $244.1 million in revenue in April. Total betting handle hit $2.16 billion, a marginal 0.5% increase from April 2025. FanDuel led the market with $101.2 million in revenue from $811.1 million in wagers. New York Sportsbooks Convert Modest Handle Growth into Strong Revenue Gains Wagering activity in New York remained robust in April, but operators secured a significantly larger share of bets compared to the previous year. The state’s eight mobile sportsbooks reported $244.1 million in gross revenue, according to the New York State Gaming Commission. Spring months typically fall short of $200 million in revenue without NFL action, making April one of the market’s strongest non-football months. Only May 2025, with $248.9 million, has recorded higher revenue outside football season since online betting began in 2022. Total handle saw little change year over year. New York bettors placed $2.16 billion in wagers, just above the $2.15 billion from April 2025. However, revenue rose 26.7% compared to last year, as operators retained 11.3% of all bets—up from 9% in April 2025. April capped off a strong two-month period. Online sportsbooks generated $217.3 million during March Madness and $244.1 million in April, totaling $461.4 million in revenue for March and April combined. That figure exceeds the same period last year by $106.9 million. A packed sports calendar fueled betting volume, featuring the Final Four, the start of the NBA and NHL playoffs, a full month of MLB games, and the Masters. Operators also achieved over $50 million in gross revenue in each of the last four weeks of April. FanDuel led the pack, posting $101.2 million in revenue from $811.1 million in wagers, aided by a 12.5% hold. This marked FanDuel’s second time surpassing $100 million in monthly gross revenue in New York during 2026. DraftKings followed with $80.7 million in revenue from a $771.6 million handle. A 10.5% hold kept it competitive despite a lower win rate than FanDuel. Fanatics Sportsbook collected $23.5 million from $262 million in wagers, achieving a 9% hold. BetMGM recorded its best month yet in New York, earning $15.8 million from a $157.5 million handle. Caesars added $13.7 million from over $139 million in bets. BetRivers maintained an 11.3% hold on $41.8 million in wagers. TheScore Bet handled $3.5 million more than BetRivers but managed only a 6.6% hold. Bally Bet retained 8.3% of its $1.3 million handle. New York also saw a substantial tax inflow. The state collected $124.5 million from its 51% online sportsbook tax in April. Year-to-date tax revenue reached $452 million, nearly 7% higher than the first four months of 2025. Revenue momentum slowed after April. In the week ending May 3, sportsbooks earned $45.7 million, down 22.8% from the prior week. Handle dropped 7.8% to $493.6 million. FanDuel maintained a 12% hold on $176.6 million in bets, while no other operator achieved a double-digit win rate. 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 Osaka Corp has updated its senior leadership as construction progresses on the JPY1.51 trillion integrated resort set to open in 2030. Good to Know Nobuki Watanabe was appointed representative director and chairman on May 1. Edward Bowers was reappointed as representative director and president. MGM Resorts confirmed that the Osaka IR is still on schedule and within budget for a 2030 launch. MGM Osaka Leadership Shuffle Continues Amid Ongoing Construction MGM Osaka Corp has appointed Nobuki Watanabe, an executive from Orix Corp, as its new representative director and chairman, bringing fresh leadership to the project during the critical phase of construction for Japan’s first approved casino resort. Watanabe, who serves as a managing executive officer at Orix Corp, assumed his new role on May 1, succeeding Toyonori Takahashi, who has transitioned to an advisory position at Orix. Since joining Orix in 2001, Watanabe has gained experience in developing new businesses and corporate management—skills he will now apply as MGM Osaka advances its development efforts. The company also announced the reappointment of Edward Bowers as representative director and president, following the restructuring of MGM Osaka Corp into a company with a formal board of directors. MGM Osaka Corp is a joint venture involving MGM Resorts International, Orix Corp, and several local investors. The integrated resort project carries an estimated cost of JPY1.51 trillion (approximately US$9.66 billion). Sankei Shimbun reported that MGM Osaka Corp now operates with a five-member board. In addition to Watanabe and Bowers, the board includes Bill Hornbuckle, CEO and president of MGM Resorts; Hidetake Takahashi, CEO and director of Orix; and Shuuji Irie, senior managing executive officer at Orix. Construction progress remains on track. During MGM Resorts’ recent first-quarter earnings call, Hornbuckle stated that “more than 40 percent of the foundation piles have been installed or completed” at the Osaka site. He added: “The first concrete floor has been poured, and the first structural steel has been erected. “MGM Osaka is still on time and on budget for its 2030 opening.” This update underscores two key developments: a streamlined leadership structure and steady advancement in construction at the upcoming Osaka casino resort. 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) -   Konami Group reports a small revenue gain in its gaming and systems division for FY2026, but profit fell sharply as margins dropped from last year. Good to Know Gaming and systems revenue reached JPY43.08 billion, up 1%. Operating profit in the division fell 50.4% to JPY3.65 billion. Konami expects gaming and systems revenue of about JPY46.0 billion in FY2027. Konami Gaming Profit Falls Despite Revenue Gain Konami gaming and systems revenue reached nearly JPY43.08 billion, or US$274.9 million, for the financial year ended March 31. The total sat slightly above the JPY42.67 billion posted a year earlier. Profit told a weaker story. Operating profit in the division fell 50.4% year on year to JPY3.65 billion. The operating profit margin came in at about 8%, down from about 17% in the prior 12-month period. The division covers casino slot machines and casino floor management systems. Konami Group serves casino markets outside Japan through Konami Australia Pty Ltd and Konami Gaming Inc in the U.S. The group also added Konami Online Interactive last October, placing iGaming as the “third pillar” in Konami Gaming businesses.North America and Australia stayed stable, according to the company, with new slot products from competing suppliers continuing to create placement opportunities. Konami released Solstice 49C during the year, calling it the “first new cabinet model in approximately six years”. The cabinet also introduced the Solstice series. Game content tied to Solstice, including the Bomberman series built around Konami intellectual property, “maintained high performance,” the company said. In Australia, Konami said the Bull Rush Stampede series gained traction. The systems side also added clients. Konami said more facilities adopted Synkros, helped by installations at casinos in California and New Mexico, along with cruise ships.The company also widened Synk Vision, its player facial recognition tool for slot machines, to table games. Konami stated: “We expanded the feature of Synk Vision, the player facial recognition solution for slot machines, to table games. This will further improve convenience for both casino operators and players,” For FY2027, Konami expects gaming and systems revenue of about JPY46.0 billion and operating profit of JPY6.5 billion. The wider Konami Group had a stronger year. Group revenue rose 17.1% to nearly JPY493.68 billion, while profit increased 33.9% to nearly JPY100.01 billion. Konami also declared a final dividend of JPY138.50, up from JPY107.50 a year earlier, payable June 4. 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) -   Herndon has temporarily suspended a proposed casino project in Northern Virginia due to increasing opposition centered on a downtown location near the Metro corridor. Good to Know The Herndon Planning Commission supported a resolution to limit casino development. Comstock had planned to develop a project on key land in downtown Herndon. A formal vote by the Herndon Town Council is required before any casino ban can be enacted. Herndon Casino Plan Meets Local Opposition A casino near downtown Herndon now appears increasingly unlikely after town leaders moved forward with a resolution designed to block gaming operations near the Metro corridor. The Planning Commission approved the measure Monday night, responding to strong community concerns about hosting a casino in the Northern Virginia municipality. Mayor Keven LeBlanc noted that numerous residents expressed that a casino would not align with Herndon’s community character. Comstock was associated with the proposed development on high-value land in the heart of Herndon. Earlier, local officials considered zoning language permitting a casino only as part of a larger mixed-use complex featuring a hotel, retail outlets, and conference facilities adjacent to the Herndon Metro station. That option has since been narrowed. The project remains paused while the town proceeds through subsequent steps. The Planning Commission’s action is not final, and the Herndon Town Council must still conduct an official vote before the casino restriction can take effect as local law. Land ownership may become the more contentious issue. Comstock retains legal title to the property, but town officials assert they may have grounds to reclaim it if the intended development no longer conforms to the area’s established community plan. That conflict could ultimately escalate into litigation. LeBlanc told Patch that Herndon began reviewing potential code amendments in January to safeguard the long-term vision for development around the Metro station. He explained that the town’s process had already commenced prior to Governor Abigail Spanberger vetoing legislation allowing a Fairfax County casino—including one in nearby Tysons. For the time being, the Herndon casino proposal confronts dual obstacles: a possible local prohibition and a rising dispute over who holds authority over the land’s future use. 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) -   Two registered iGaming suppliers have been fined by Ontario regulators after their casino games were found on unregulated gaming sites accessible to players in the province. Key Information Relax Gaming Limited and Arrise Solutions Limited were each fined $40,000. Both companies are registered with the AGCO to develop and supply slot and casino-style games. The AGCO noted that both suppliers cooperated and promptly blocked access to their games. AGCO Takes Action Against Suppliers for Unregulated Site Access The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) has imposed $40,000 penalties on Relax Gaming Limited and Arrise Solutions Limited following the discovery that their products were available on unregulated online gaming sites targeting Ontario players. Both entities hold AGCO registration as game suppliers, authorizing them to create and distribute slot and casino-style games within Ontario's regulated iGaming market. However, the regulator confirmed that their games were also accessible through platforms operating outside the established provincial framework. AGCO CEO and registrar Dr. Karin Schnarr stated:“Ontario’s regulated iGaming market is built on clear rules designed to protect players and hold companies accountable.” She further commented: “Unregulated gaming sites operate outside that framework, meaning players have no assurance of fair games, timely withdrawals, or access to meaningful dispute resolution.” The regulator reported that both Relax Gaming and Arrise demonstrated cooperation during the investigation. Each company also took steps to restrict access to their games on the unregulated sites once the issue was identified.Ontario has intensified its efforts against unregulated gaming activities over the past year. This recent action underscores that penalties can be applied to suppliers, not just operators, when regulated content appears on unauthorized platforms.Dr. Schnarr emphasized:“When regulated games appear on unregulated sites, it risks enabling a market that exposes players to real harm.”For the Ontario iGaming sector, this case highlights the ongoing importance of supplier oversight, product distribution controls, and the methods registered companies use to monitor the online presence of their games. 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) -   Entain has entered the debate over football betting sponsorships by urging the Independent Football Regulator (IFR) to prevent clubs from accepting funds from gambling operators lacking a UK licence. Good to Know Entain is calling on the IFR to act before the 2026–27 football season begins in August. The company considers unlicensed gambling sponsorship as amounting to serious criminal conduct. Entain submitted four recommendations related to club licensing, governance, and due diligence. Entain Presses IFR on Unlicensed Betting Sponsors Entain is advocating for stricter controls on gambling sponsorships for English football clubs, particularly when operators do not possess a UK licence but still engage fans via club partnerships. The owner of Ladbrokes and Coral issued this request following the closure of the IFR’s Second Licensing Consultation on Tuesday. The consultation outlined plans for a new licensing framework applicable to clubs across England’s top five football leagues. Entain asked the IFR to clarify that club revenue derived from “serious criminal conduct” also includes income from sponsorship deals with unlicensed gambling companies. This phrase forms the core of Entain’s appeal.CEO Stella David stated the regulator already possesses sufficient authority to intervene ahead of the upcoming season: “Premier League clubs are currently sponsored by gambling firms engaged in criminal activity. The Independent Football Regulator could halt this immediately by recognising that unlicensed gambling companies targeting UK consumers through English football are violating the law—straightforward and unambiguous. “The regulator does not require additional powers, new legislation, or even an entirely new rule to enforce this. In fact, it has already developed one. We are urging the regulator to define and implement it before the next season commences.” Currently, the market permits overseas operators to sponsor UK teams indirectly through white-label agreements with locally licensed businesses. Entain also estimated that up to six operators without any UK licence or presence are sponsoring Premier League clubs.Entain itself holds football sponsorship interests: Ladbrokes serves as Liverpool’s official betting partner, while Coral acts as Birmingham City’s UK partner. In addition to its main demand, Entain provided the IFR with a fourth recommendation: clubs should include a board-level declaration in their annual submission confirming whether they have significant commercial relationships with UK-licensed gambling operators. This annual declaration was established under the Football Governance Act 2025, which created the IFR last year and seeks to ensure club compliance. Entain also recommended that the Football Club Corporate Governance Code treat reputational risks arising from commercial partnerships as a standard board responsibility. Furthermore, it requested the IFR publish general guidance for all licensed clubs regarding due diligence requirements and obligations associated with gambling partners. This initiative comes amid ongoing instability at Entain, including the departure of board member Ricky Sandler, the termination of its agreement with Eminence Capital, and CEO Stella David continuing her leadership after multiple executive changes in recent years. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   GamScore is gearing up for an October release with a mobile application aimed at providing UK gamblers with better transparency regarding their risk levels, spending habits, offshore betting, and compliance status. Good to Know Josh Apiafi and Phill Adams created GamScore. The application utilizes artificial intelligence and open banking to monitor gambling behavior in real time. GamScore intends to make the service free for users at the point of access. GamScore App Scheduled for October Release Positioned as a gambling wellness tool rather than a standard operator product, the platform is the brainchild of Josh Apiafi, a former executive at Betfair and Rewards4Racing, and Phill Adams, the founder of Punt, an AI-driven, UKGC-licensed B2C esports tote. The application seeks to identify early signs of gambling risk using AI-based behavioral science, real-time analytics, educational advice, and notifications. It will also alert users to the dangers of offshore betting sites and the black market. GamScore stated that it has “responded to the UKGC’s request for innovative technical solutions that have industry-wide support”.The company further expressed its belief that the app can help reconcile consumer protection with the long-term sustainability of the UK betting and gaming market. Additionally, GamScore is welcoming investment opportunities. Launching October 2026 – GamScoreThe GamScore app will offer bettors a personalised dashboard, identify and warn of black market activity and minimalise friction if checks are required. Bettor Empowered pic.twitter.com/6zBcMywwXN — GamScore (@GamScore) May 6, 2026 How GamScore Functions GamScore leverages open banking to provide a live snapshot of a bettor’s financial standing and gambling activity. The application gathers data three times a day and employs AI to generate a score. This score would be accessible to operators when customers engage with the service. Co-founder Josh Apiafi explains: “So, if your behavior changes—for example, if you chase losses—that will negatively impact your score. It is a continuous process.” The use of open banking in gambling has previously sparked privacy concerns. Apiafi noted that GamScore ensures the process remains independent of direct operator control, offering customers a single hub for data management. He stated: “Here, it keeps things separate from the operator. It provides a one-stop shop. “It will also offer a profit and loss overview across your betting accounts. A unified customer view is provided, but it is owned by the customer, not the operator.”Future updates will allow users to track compliance measures across different operators. This could help customers avoid repeatedly submitting the same financial documents, reducing frustration that might otherwise drive them toward offshore sites. GamScore also intends to identify black market activity through open banking deposits. Apiafi stated: “What GamScore will do is detect [black market gambling] via your deposits through open banking. If it is an unlicensed bookmaker, a warning will be issued. “It will also gather data, as there is speculation about the number of people using the black market.” For operators, GamScore aims to provide a lower-friction option compared to static credit checks. Apiafi mentioned that the app can update throughout the day and quickly pinpoint adverse activity through educational prompts and content. “For operators, GamScore offers a lower-friction, user-controlled alternative to traditional static, point-in-time credit checks,” according to Apiafi. The platform maintains that it is independent of the betting industry, though it plans to partner with operators to offer the service as a safety and compliance tool. Apiafi remarked: “If successful, this is a solution for the betting industry, the consumer, and the sport I have dedicated most of my career to. There are no drawbacks for the regulator, the operator, or the consumer. It is a major win for everyone.” 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) -   DraftKings aims to play a larger role in sports prediction markets, but CEO Jason Robins emphasizes that stronger customer trust is essential for the industry to develop into a sustainable and healthy business over the long term. Key Points DraftKings launched its prediction market platform in December. The company plans to invest $200 million to $300 million in this sector. Jason Robins noted that some users may be losing money at a faster rate than they would when betting on regulated online sportsbooks. DraftKings Seeks Trust Before Pursuing Growth DraftKings identifies a significant opportunity in prediction markets, but Robins highlighted potential issues during the company’s first-quarter earnings call. He suggested that early data indicates customers in prediction markets are losing money more quickly than they would through state-regulated online sportsbooks. This trend raises concerns from both a business and customer protection standpoint, particularly as DraftKings prepares to make substantial investments in the space. A key concern revolves around the counterparties behind trades. While prediction markets are often described as peer-to-peer platforms, Robins pointed out that this framing can obscure the reality for many participants. “I think part of it is that prediction operators, some of them anyway, are sort of irresponsibly saying that this is not the same as a product like ours, where you have people playing against each other on prediction markets, when the reality is that most of the money is being put up, most liquidity is being put up, by professional market-makers, institutions, things like that,” Robins said during the earnings call. “So, I think some people don’t necessarily understand that, and as that becomes more apparent, I think you’ll start to see that moderate,” he added. DraftKings has encountered similar dynamics before—most notably with daily fantasy sports, where recreational players often competed against more experienced experts. That experience taught the company the importance of safeguarding the player pool and preventing casual users from exiting too rapidly. In contrast, federally regulated prediction market operators did not go through the same learning curve. Now, DraftKings intends to apply those lessons as it develops its exchange-based model. “You’ve got to make sure you protect the ecosystem as best as you can, obviously, within the rules and regulations,” Robins stated. “Doing things to make sure that you’re building a healthy ecosystem was critical to us building out a sustainable daily fantasy sports product. And right now, I don’t see that necessarily happening with some of our predictions competitors. But as time goes on, hopefully we’ll set the standard there, and it’ll be something that really becomes an important part of managing the ecosystem.” The remarks followed DraftKings reporting better-than-expected results for the quarter ending March 31. They also came as the company gears up to allocate an additional $200 million to $300 million toward expanding its prediction market offerings. For DraftKings, the strategy isn’t solely about entering a high-growth adjacent market. Robins wants the company to grow in a way that “strengthens customer trust” rather than depleting new users before the product can mature. 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) -   Wynn Resorts concluded the first quarter with increased revenue, improved profitability, and greater capital returned to shareholders, while its UAE casino resort project continued to require substantial investment. Key Highlights Wynn Resorts' Q1 revenue rose to $1.86 billion from $1.70 billion. Net income attributable to Wynn reached $120.5 million. Wynn Al Marjan Island now faces a slight delay, though work continues toward a 2027 opening. Strong Performance Driven by Macau and Las Vegas Operations Wynn Resorts delivered a stronger first quarter, primarily supported by Wynn Palace in Macau and its Las Vegas operations. Operating revenue grew by $156.4 million year over year, reaching $1.86 billion. Adjusted Property EBITDAR also improved, increasing to $562.4 million from $532.9 million. Profit growth outpaced revenue gains. Net income attributable to Wynn rose to $120.5 million, up from $72.7 million a year earlier. Diluted net income per share climbed to $1.04 from $0.69. On an adjusted basis, Wynn Resorts reported net income of $129.7 million, or $1.25 per diluted share, compared with $113.1 million, or $1.07 per diluted share, in Q1 2025. Las Vegas operations provided consistent earnings support. Revenue from Las Vegas reached $661.9 million, up from $625.3 million. Adjusted Property EBITDAR increased to $232.5 million from $223.4 million, with table games win percentage at 25.2%, within the anticipated range of 22% to 26%. Wynn Palace showed the most significant improvement. Revenue surged to $659.3 million from $535.9 million, while Adjusted Property EBITDAR jumped to $203.8 million from $161.9 million. Mass market table games achieved a 26.6% win rate, above last year’s 24.8%. VIP table games win as a percentage of turnover was 3.11%, within the expected 3.1% to 3.4% range. In contrast, Wynn Macau experienced a weaker performance. Revenue remained nearly unchanged at $329.9 million, down slightly from $330.0 million the prior year, but Adjusted Property EBITDAR declined to $75.6 million from $90.2 million. Mass market table games win percentage dropped to 15.1% from 18.7%. VIP table games win as a percentage of turnover fell sharply to 0.39%, well below the expected 3.1% to 3.4% range. Encore Boston Harbor also saw a decline in results. Revenue decreased to $205.7 million from $209.2 million, and Adjusted Property EBITDAR fell to $50.5 million from $57.5 million. Table games win percentage was 20.2%, within the expected 18% to 22% range. Wynn Al Marjan Island remained a major focus of spending. During the quarter, Wynn Resorts contributed $100.1 million in cash to the 40%-owned joint venture developing the UAE casino resort. Total cash contributions to date have reached $1.01 billion. The $5 billion Wynn Al Marjan Island project had originally targeted a spring 2027 opening but now faces a modest delay due to regional conflict. Construction, however, remains ongoing. Craig Billings, CEO of Wynn, commented: “Construction has continued to progress, with over 22,000 workers on site. The project team has demonstrated remarkable resilience. Despite logistical and shipping challenges, deliveries have persisted, and we are rerouting shipments and sourcing alternative materials where necessary.” During the quarter, Wynn Resorts also executed share repurchases, acquiring 528,667 shares at an average price of $101.72, for a total expenditure of $53.8 million. As of March 31, the company retained $401.1 million available under its share repurchase program. The Board of Directors announced a $0.25 per share cash dividend, payable on May 29, 2026, to stockholders of record as of May 18, 2026. As of end-March, Wynn Resorts held $1.19 billion in cash and cash equivalents—excluding $607.6 million in short-term investments held by Wynn Macau, Limited. Total current and long-term debt amounted to $10.52 billion, comprising $5.76 billion tied to Macau, $877.2 million linked to Wynn Las Vegas, $3.28 billion under Wynn Resorts Finance, and $598.6 million held by the consolidated retail joint venture. 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) -   Unrest continues at Entain after another board change, with Ricky Sandler, CEO of Eminence Capital, leaving as a non executive director while the fund he leads reportedly prepares to close. His exit follows a long run of disruption at the gambling group, including activist investor pressure, the resignation of Jette Nygaard-Andersen, the short tenure of Gavin Isaacs, and the return of Stella David as permanent CEO. Good to Know Ricky Sandler joined the Entain board in January 2024 after activist investor pressure. Entain will end its relationship agreement with Eminence Capital immediately. Eminence plans to sell any Entain shares held in its funds and accounts in an orderly way. Sandler Exit Closes A Tense Entain Chapter Ricky Sandler arrived at Entain after a rough period for the gambling group. Activist investors wanted changes, the board faced pressure, and the company had already drawn criticism over strategy, dealmaking, and capital use. Now that board link is ending. Entain said Sandler will leave his non executive director role, while the legally binding agreement with Eminence Capital will also finish immediately. That agreement came with his appointment in January 2024 and limited how far he could challenge management on some issues. Eminence Capital launched in 1999 and manages about $7 billion, according to the original report. Reports last week said the fund plans to close. In a client letter, Sandler linked that decision to recent returns that failed to meet internal expectations and investor standards.Any Entain shares held in Eminence managed funds and accounts will be “liquidated in an orderly manner,” Sandler said. He added that the sale process would happen “without any pre-determined time constraints, with the intention of maximising value realisation”. Sandler served on the capital allocation committee at Entain during his time on the board. His role followed an open letter from the summer of 2023, when he attacked the company approach to bolt on acquisitions. He called the use of what he saw as undervalued shareholder capital to fund those deals “illogical.” Entain chairman Pierre Bouchut said: “On behalf of the board, I thank Ricky for his support. Thanks to his contributions, the company is in a stronger position and is well equipped to capitalise on the many opportunities in the global sports betting and gaming market.”Sandler also struck a calmer tone on exit. He said he was pleased to have served on the Entain board and pointed to major operational changes across the past two years. He also said he had confidence in Entain management and the board to increase shareholder value. The departure lands after repeated leadership changes at Entain. Jette Nygaard-Andersen resigned in late 2023 after investor unrest. Stella David then took over on an interim basis from December 2023 to September 2024. Former Scientific Games chief Gavin Isaacs later became permanent CEO, but left after five months. David returned as interim CEO and became permanent CEO in April last year. For Entain, the Sandler exit removes one activist investor voice from the boardroom. Yet the timing also keeps investor attention on capital discipline, performance, and the next stage under Stella David. 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) -   DraftKings commenced 2026 with a first quarter that surpassed Wall Street's projections, attributed to enhanced sportsbook margins, more disciplined customer acquisition, and initial success with its Super App strategy. Good to Know DraftKings reported a 17% year-over-year increase in revenue, reaching $1.65 billion. The company achieved a net profit of $21.1 million, a turnaround from a $33.9 million loss in the previous year. Customer acquisition costs for prediction markets in April saw a reduction of over 80%. DraftKings Leverages Strong Q1 Performance to Intensify Focus on Prediction Markets DraftKings presented investors with a dual narrative for the quarter. Its primary sportsbook and iGaming operations sustained growth, concurrently, prediction markets appeared to be less expensive to develop than initially anticipated. For the period concluding March 31, DraftKings announced revenues of $1.65 billion, marking an approximate 17% increase year-over-year. A net profit of $21.1 million was recorded, a significant improvement from the $33.9 million loss reported in the same quarter last year. Adjusted EBITDA climbed to $167.9 million from $102.6 million, and adjusted earnings per share stood at $0.20, surpassing Wall Street's forecast of $0.17. CEO Jason Robins commented:“We are off to a fantastic start to the year as our first-quarter results exceeded our expectations,” The sportsbook segment largely drove the quarter's performance. Revenue from this division rose 24.1% to $1.09 billion, despite a modest 1.5% increase in betting handle to $14.08 billion. The sportsbook margin saw an enhancement, reaching 7.8% from 6.4% in the prior year. iGaming contributed a consistent additional revenue stream. Online casino product revenue grew 8.9% to $461.3 million, constituting almost 28% of the group's overall revenue. Initially, customer figures appeared softer; however, DraftKings attributed this decline to its withdrawal from the Texas lottery market. Monthly unique paying customers decreased by 4% to 4.2 million. Excluding this factor, the number would have increased by 2%. Average revenue per monthly unique payer also saw an uptick, supported by improved retention and the acquisition of new users across both sportsbook and iGaming platforms. DraftKings maintained its 2026 financial outlook. The company continues to project revenues between $6.5 billion and $6.9 billion, alongside adjusted EBITDA ranging from $700 million to $900 million. A more recent development revolves around the DraftKings Super App. This platform integrates sportsbook, iGaming, and DraftKings Predictions into a single mobile application. The company reported that in April, customer acquisition costs for its prediction market segment dropped by over 80%. Robins stated: “Our core business is strong, and profitability is inflecting. That gives us the firepower to press our advantage in Predictions,” said Robins. “With our Super App, market-making capabilities, proprietary exchange, and combos coming together, we intend to establish a leadership position in Sports Predictions before year-end.” The volume within the prediction market also saw an increase. Annualized consumer volume surpassed $1 billion in April, and annualized total traded volume exceeded $2.3 billion. These metrics showed month-over-month growth of 38% and 43%, respectively. Furthermore, DraftKings noted that 69% of its prediction market trading volume originates from states where traditional legal sports betting is not available. This provides the Boston-based operator with an alternative avenue to engage users who are unable to access conventional online sports betting. CFO Alan Ellingson remarked: “The business continues to scale efficiently as we grow revenue, expand profitability, and invest in high-return opportunities.” DraftKings reiterated its long-term objectives from its investor day presentation, which encompass a potential gross revenue opportunity of $55 billion to $80 billion by 2030 and a minimum long-term adjusted EBITDA margin of 30%. 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.