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(AsiaGameHub) -   The PGA Tour's Valero Texas Open acts as the final event before next week's Masters at Augusta National. Commonly used as a warm-up for golf's premier major, the tournament has crowned five different champions in the last five years. Canada's Corey Connors claimed victory in 2019 and again in 2023. The left-handed Brian Harman enters this week as the reigning Valero Open titleholder. Valero Texas Open Odds at DraftKings Here are the current odds to win the Valero Open from DraftKings at the time of writing: Tommy Fleetwood +1375 Ludvig Aberg +1500 Russell Henley +1700 Robert MacIntyre +1700 Jordan Spieth +1850 Si Woo Kim +1950 Hideki Matsuyama +2100 Maverick McNealy +2250 Rickie Fowler +2600 Sepp Straka +2700 Michael Thorbjornsen +2700 Keith Mitchell +3400 J.J. Spaun +3500 Ryo Hisatsune +3900 Alex Noren +3900 Denny McCarthy +4500 Jordan Smith +5300 Marco Penge +5300 Nick Taylor +5400 Ricky Castillo +5600 Alex Smalley +5700 John Keefer +5900 Stephan Jaeger +5900 Thorbjorn Olesen +6100 Tony Finau +6300 Sudarshan Yellamaraju +6400 Brian Harman +6500 Will Zalatoris +6600 Davis Thompson +6800 J.T. Poston +7000 Rico Hoey +7000 Best Bet on Favorite to Win Valero Texas Open Jordan Spieth +1850 Jordan Spieth has recorded three top-12 results in his last four tournaments. The Texan is a past champion, having won the Valero Open in 2021. While his last victory was at the 2022 RBC Heritage, his recent play shows positive momentum, making him a betting consideration for The Masters as well. Spieth captured the 2015 Masters by four shots and has six top-four finishes at Augusta National, including second-place results in 2014 and 2016. Best Bet on Sleeper to Win Valero Texas Open Ryo Hisatsune +3900 Hisatsune is on the verge of his maiden PGA Tour victory. His strong start to the 2026 season includes: Farmers Insurance Open (T-2) WM Phoenix Open (T-10) AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am (T-8) Players Championship (T-13) He also placed T-5 at last year's Valero Texas Open. Key season statistics underscore his excellent form (with PGA Tour rank in parentheses): Greens in Regulation (3rd) SG: Tee-to-Green (8th) SG: Off-the-Tee (15th) SG: Total (19th) This combination of recent results and strong metrics points to a promising week at TPC San Antonio. Best Bet on Longshot to Win Valero Texas Open Austin Smotherman +9000 Austin Smotherman has notched three top-13 finishes this season. American Express T-8 Cognizant Classic T-2 Players Championship T-13 His performance has been highly variable, however, mixing those good showings with missed cuts and a withdrawal at the Arnold Palmer Invitational. His most recent outing at the Valspar Championship ended in a missed cut. If his pattern of alternating performances continues, Smotherman could be set for another high finish. Given his long odds, he represents a worthwhile speculative wager. 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 Las Vegas grapples with a sluggish economy, a $7 billion wave of major construction projects is slated for completion in the next three years, aiming to rejuvenate the Strip. The A’s baseball stadium leads Sin City's revival, accompanied by a new Hard Rock and the transformation of the old Tropicana site. Wall Street gaming analysts are confident the city's rebound will follow in time after these developments are finalized. Truist Securities Managing Director Barry Jonas and CBRE Director of Equity Research John DeCree recently addressed the Economic Club of Las Vegas on the condition of the local gaming sector. “In our view, the current demand challenges and drop in visitation are temporary,” DeCree stated. “We believe people will return. If not this year or next, they will definitely come back in 2028 when new attractions open and there is more to experience. We're facing a struggle now, but that will shift. The significant private and public investment flowing into Las Vegas is a positive signal of future demand.” The NBA is also considering potential expansion into Las Vegas, which would provide another major lift for the city. “When you speak with people who haven't visited Las Vegas, they express a desire to see the Sphere,” DeCree noted. “They're waiting for their favorite band to perform. So the next major draw, be it the NBA or the A's, will undoubtedly pull people to the city. Ultimately, they will come because you can find everything here.” Economic Challenges Persist in Sin City According to the Las Vegas Convention & Visitors Authority (LVCVA), visitor volume in 2025 reached 38,545,700, a 7.5% decrease from the year before. Excluding the pandemic period, this represents the steepest decline since the LVCVA began recording visitation in 1970. By comparison, the peak annual visitation of 42,523,700 was recorded in 2019. Even with fewer visitors, gaming revenue on the Las Vegas Strip hit a new annual record of $8.8 billion. Those who did travel to Las Vegas also spent more during their stays. 81% of visitors gambled The average gaming budget increased to $848 last year Overall hotel occupancy fell 3.3% year-over-year, while convention attendance dipped slightly by 0.1%. A recent LVCVA visitor profile survey uncovered a concerning pattern. Fewer than 10% of all visitors last year reported it was their first trip, down from 15% the prior year and 24% in 2022. “Amid inflation, recession worries, and tariffs, it's simpler to postpone a Vegas trip and stay home a bit longer,” Jonas commented. “As we head into summer, the true test will be whether we can resume growth. This year's event calendar is very robust, with records projected across various areas. My models aren't forecasting growth for the major Vegas operators, indicating the leisure segment is still under pressure, primarily at the lower end.” The survey also indicated that 44% of visitors had a household income of $150,000 or higher. The city continues to find it most challenging to attract visitors from the lower and middle classes. “Vegas excels at reinventing itself,” DeCree said. “Several companies are developing strategies to better attract that customer segment. The high-end market generates so much revenue and cash flow that we sometimes overlook or neglect the other segment, which represents 7% to 8% of visitation. We need to find a way to win that customer back.” February Marks Bright Spot for Monthly Numbers Las Vegas welcomed 3.03 million visitors in February, a 2% increase from the same month last year. This was the first year-over-year rise since 2024. Furthermore, the Nevada Gaming Control Board's February report showed the Las Vegas Strip's gross gaming revenue held steady year-over-year at $696.2 million. Baccarat was a standout game on the Strip, with operators winning $119.9 million. This figure represents a 37% jump from the same period a year earlier. Looking ahead, April is predicted to be a slower month, but a packed concert schedule in May should offer a lift. The Sphere has emerged as a success story during Las Vegas's slump, hosting residencies by top-tier acts like U2 and the Eagles. The venue has also gained from films such as The Wizard of Oz and Postcard from Earth, which collectively brought in $550 million. Jonas anticipates the “potential for business growth in the second quarter, supported by easier year-over-year comparisons during the summer.” “We believe there is substantial programming in the works to tackle the softness at the lower end,” he added. Moreover, the LVCVA and casino operators are promoting a “value-oriented message” to counter the perception of price gouging that damaged the city's tourism in 2025. “We'll observe how this develops into summer 2026, though there's always a danger that boosting occupancy by cutting rates could attract a lower-quality customer who doesn't contribute much overall,” Jonas said. Final Analysis Although operators maintain a guarded optimism, most Strip properties are likely to experience mixed results in the near term. “At the high end – Wynn, Bellagio, Caesars Palace – you don't hear about difficulties,” Jonas observed. “The struggle is at the low end. Year-over-year comparisons will become less severe, and company initiatives will help. But factors like the war in Iran and higher gas prices remain. A return to growth is visible, but it's not without its risks.” DeCree, for his part, ended on a more positive tone. “The U.S. consumer is remarkably resilient and enjoys spending, particularly on experiences,” DeCree concluded. “We've observed consumer spending hold steady since the onset of the war in Iran. That could shift if the situation continues, but for now, consumers are carrying on as usual, especially regarding entertainment and hospitality.” That is the bet Las Vegas is making as it moves forward into an unpredictable future. 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) -   Police report that a Russian man took his friend’s mobile phone while the friend was sleeping, used it to steal funds and gamble online, then destroyed the device. In an official Telegram channel post, the Omsk Regional Directorate of the Ministry of Internal Affairs stated the victim was a 58-year-old who worked at a car repair shop in Luzino, a village located in the Omsk Oblast. The victim informed police that he frequently met two other men at the garage to have drinks together. The three had planned a drinking gathering on an unspecified February date. When the victim’s friends showed up, they found him asleep, he later told authorities. One of the two friends— a 50-year-old man— is said to have stolen the garage employee’s phone. Russian Man Embarks on a Gambling Spree Authorities stated they arrested the suspect not long after the incident. Following questioning, the suspect is said to have confessed to taking the phone. Officers noted the suspect had watched and memorized his friend’s pattern lock code. After leaving the garage, the suspect is alleged to have used this code to unlock the phone. He then is said to have accessed the victim’s sports betting digital wallet, emptied it, and transferred all the money to his personal bank account. Authorities reported the man used the stolen funds to make multiple losing bets on an online casino site. Once he’d lost all the stolen money, the suspect is said to have smashed the phone and discarded it in a public trash can. Police confirmed the suspect confessed to stealing 100,000 rubles— approximately $1,200— from the wallet. “We have filed theft charges against the suspect and placed him in custody,” an Omsk police representative stated. Detectives confirmed the suspect has prior convictions for carjacking, robbery, and theft. Luzino, in Russia’s Omsk Oblast. (Image: OBKom TV/YouTube/Screenshot) Ministry’s Legalization Proposal Online casinos are prohibited in Russia, yet the Ministry of Finance acknowledges it has little ability to curb their proliferation. The ministry has put forward a plan to lift the ban and impose a 30% annual tax on licensed operators. The plan has been highly contentious, but gambling supporters note the proposal has made rapid progress. Industry insiders indicate lawmakers might vote on the ministry’s proposal as soon as next month. Earlier this month, authorities announced the arrest of a social media self-help influencer on gambling-related charges. Perm city police stated the man ran an illegal casino in a basement of a downtown commercial area. During a March 26 court hearing, the suspect “fully confessed” to his guilt and requested bail from the judge. The court denied the request after prosecutors informed the judge the suspect was a flight risk and exhibited signs of gambling addiction. 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) -   Citrini Research released a report in February outlining a possible doomsday scenario where job losses driven by AI spark a stock market collapse and a recession in 2028. Now known as the Citrini Scenario, this concept is generating millions of dollars in trades on prediction market platforms. So, what exactly is this scenario, and how probable is it that it will play out? “What you’re about to read is a scenario, not a forecast. This isn’t pessimistic hype or AI doomsayer fiction. The only purpose of this report is to model a scenario that has received relatively little attention,” noted the document titled “The Global Intelligence Crisis.” Prediction market participants are now treating it as a forecast. Kalshi’s platform alone has recorded nearly $15 million in trading activity. Currently, it’s registering daily trading volumes exceeding $1 million and was the top non-sports, non-crypto market on March 30. Due to this surge in trading, the scenario’s probability has risen from 12% when the market launched last month to 34% as of today. The Scenario The scenario depicts a swift AI-induced economic crisis that renders human labor—particularly white-collar work—largely irrelevant. This in turn leads to a private credit and mortgage meltdown. Elevated unemployment also impacts key companies dependent on consumer spending, including Uber, American Express, Mastercard, and DoorDash. Companies try to address the crisis by ramping up AI investments, creating a self-reinforcing cycle. “As weaknesses started to emerge in the consumer economy, economic experts coined the term “Ghost GDP:’ output that appears in national economic records but never flows through the actual economy,” the report—written as a 2028 post-mortem—explained. Protesters take over corporate offices in Silicon Valley to campaign against overreliance on AI. As the report points out, the “Occupy Silicon Valley” movement is “a symbol of broader public discontent.” Kalshi specified that for its “Citrini scenario” market to settle as “yes,” three of the following outcomes need to happen: Monthly BLS unemployment rate surpasses 10% S&P 500 drops by over 30% from its closing value at the time the market was launched Zillow Home Value Index falls by more than 10% year-over-year in any of NYC, LA, San Francisco, Chicago, Houston, or Phoenix Labor share of gross domestic income (GDI) first-release figure for any quarter drops below 50% Year-over-year CPI-U drops below 0% in any monthly report What’s Driving the Surge in Trading Volume? The market has gained increased attention since the onset of the Iran war. Polymarket’s markets related to the conflict have also experienced high trading volumes, with some activity coming from insiders. Surging oil prices in an already vulnerable economy might lead many to think events are aligning with the path outlined by Citrini Research. Last month’s job losses were worse than expected, pushing unemployment up to 4.4%. The S&P 500 has declined roughly 8% since the report was released in February. “The S&P is close to all-time peaks. The negative feedback cycles haven’t started yet. We are confident that some of these scenarios won’t come to pass,” the authors stated at the conclusion of their thought experiment. Nevertheless, events are beginning to align with the doomsday forecasts. There’s also a growing belief that AI is advancing quickly. Kalshi’s market for OpenAI achieving Artificial General Intelligence by 2028 now assigns it a 34% probability. If this happens, it could further fuel the “human intelligence displacement spiral” that Citrini predicted. Some others, though, might just be observing the trend and jumping on the bandwagon. A Kalshi user remarked, “Just find the right moment to sell and take profits.” 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 prediction market platform Polymarket has launched a new betting market on the potential return of the 12 tonnes of KitKats stolen during transport between Italy and Poland. Current market odds imply a 24% probability that Nestle, an affiliate, or a government or law enforcement body will retrieve any of the stolen chocolate bars by April 5. According to the market rules, “The confirmed recovery of any quantity of the stolen KitKats, even a single bar, will be enough for this market to resolve as ‘Yes’.” One user commented on the market, “Listen i got an idea. Steal 12 tonnes of Kit Kats and hedge against getting your kitkats taken away when you get caught by betting on yourself getting caught. So when you do get caught, you can buy new kitkats with your winnings. Win-win.” It is also conceivable that the thieves themselves could return some bars and place a wager. Although Polymarket has measures to counter insider trading, such markets present a variety of potentially concerning situations. KitKat Confirms Massive Theft KitKat verified in a Sunday post on X that 12 tonnes, approximately 400,000 bars, had disappeared. Regarding recent press coverage pic.twitter.com/Huh4EnFV2J— KITKAT (@KITKAT) March 29, 2026 The X post has garnered over 120 million views, and the story has drawn widespread media coverage. Nestle has leveraged the theft for marketing purposes. In a press release, the company stated the bars were part of its new Formula 1 line. The confectioner recently extended its partnership with the sport, becoming the official chocolate bar of F1. A KitKat spokesperson remarked, “We’ve always encouraged people to have a break with KITKAT – but it seems thieves have taken the message too literally and made a break with more than 12 tonnes of our chocolate.” “While we appreciate the criminals’ exceptional taste, cargo theft is a growing problem for businesses everywhere. As more sophisticated schemes are regularly used, we decided to publicize our experience to help raise awareness of this increasingly common criminal trend.” Appeal for Insider Information Nestle further advised, “We ask consumers not to try to locate, handle, or recover any stolen products and to avoid any direct action. Any pertinent information should be reported to local law enforcement.” Individuals with knowledge of the theft could also stand to gain significantly on Polymarket. More than $33,000 has been wagered on the market as of March 31. Despite facing criticism, Polymarket keeps testing the limits of acceptable betting markets. Trading on events like the Iran war has recently spiked, including activity from military insiders. Markets on pre-recorded programs, such as Survivor, have also sparked debate about which markets should be banned. Legislators are advocating for tighter regulations, but Polymarket mainly functions via its international platform, which falls outside US oversight. The company highlighted the KitKat market in a user email, citing the current odds as an indicator that recovery prospects appear slim. 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) -   Congress kicked off the week by maintaining its focus on insider trading in prediction markets, shifting its gaze to the regulator overseeing event contract exchanges and the government office tasked with ensuring federal employees adhere to ethics rules and conflict-of-interest guidelines. On Monday, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), along with 41 other legislators, revealed they had dispatched a letter to Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Chairman Michael Selig and division heads at the U.S. Office of Government Ethics (OGE), calling for action against what they termed “illegal insider trading in prediction markets by federal employees.” Enough is enough. We need to rein in prediction markets. pic.twitter.com/8GwXpPqGTe— Elizabeth Warren (@SenWarren) March 30, 2026 Dated March 29, the letter requested that the CFTC and OGE release government-wide guidance cautioning federal employees against using nonpublic information to trade in prediction markets. To illustrate their point, the letter cited multiple instances of alleged insider trading, such as the January U.S. military intervention in Venezuela that resulted in the capture of former leader Nicolás Maduro—an event where traders earned hundreds of thousands of dollars via well-timed wagers. They also referenced a market focused on the duration of White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt’s press conference remarks; traders gained profits when she ended her speech abruptly, just 30 seconds shy of the 65-minute mark. Today's White House Press Briefing had a 98% chance of running over 65 minutes – until Karoline Leavitt abruptly ended it with seconds to spare.Traders on the NO side made 50x in seconds. pic.twitter.com/Fe0MVMq9Oj— PredictionMarketTrader (@PredMTrader) January 7, 2026 The most recent cases they highlighted included the joint U.S.-Israeli strike on Iran (where alleged insiders made over a million dollars) and speculation about when Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem would be dismissed. The legislators have requested a staff-level briefing and responses to the issues outlined in the letter by no later than April 13. Lawmakers Demand Accountability & Clear Guidance In the letter, the lawmakers contend that the Commodity Exchange Act—amended by the 2012 Stop Trading on Congressional Knowledge (STOCK) Act—already prohibits federal employees from using nonpublic information to trade in prediction markets. The STOCK Act makes it illegal for government workers to use nonpublic information obtained during their official duties for personal profit in futures, options, or swaps—categories the CFTC identifies as including event contracts. Given these existing rules, the legislators assert that the CFTC and OGE should distribute formal guidance to remind government employees that their STOCK Act obligations extend to trading in prediction markets. The letter links this issue directly to the CFTC’s rulemaking process for event contracts, which began on March 12. It notes that the commission is actively soliciting public input on how insider trading concerns should influence the future regulation of prediction markets. The legislators brought up this issue because the CFTC’s advance notice specifically queries how federal employees’ use of nonpublic information should guide the commission’s approach to prediction markets. January Letter Raised Similar Insider Trading Questions This isn’t the first occasion legislators have voiced their concerns about insider trading to the CFTC. In January, Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) and a smaller group of senators sent a letter to Selig inquiring how the CFTC monitors suspicious event contract trading and whether it has ever investigated insider trading in those markets. Cortez Masto, Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Cory Booker (D-NJ), and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) signed both letters—indicating these senators are not satisfied with the responses they’ve gotten from the CFTC so far. Even if the senators manage to get the CFTC and OGE to take action, it’s uncertain how effective enforcement will be in reality. In their latest letter, the legislators cite the STOCK Act as evidence that insider trading is already illegal, but critics have long doubted the statute’s practical impact. The STOCK Act has been in effect for over a decade, yet there’s no public record of officials paying statutory fines for disclosure mistakes or any successful criminal prosecutions under the law. This raises the question of whether the ongoing discussion on Capitol Hill about insider trading is merely performative and a response to public anger, or if legislators truly view insider trading in prediction markets as a real danger. 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) -   UK doctors have been directed to inquire about patients' gambling activities just as they routinely do for smoking and alcohol use. A new report suggests this approach could help prevent suicides among gamblers. Dr Julian Morris, a London Senior Coroner, produced the report following the death of Lee Adams. Adams took his own life after a prolonged gambling episode in 2020. Morris had earlier determined that Adams' gambling disorder was a contributing cause of death, combined with a prescription drug overdose. To avoid future tragedies, Morris stated, “General practitioners should be prompted to question people about their gambling patterns similarly to how they inquire about smoking and alcohol use.” Achievement for Adams Family On the day he died, Adams made 600 consecutive bets on an online slots site soon after getting his monthly pay, his family reported. His relatives welcomed Morris's finding that gambling was a decisive element in his death. His cousin, Natalie Ashbolt, said, “We must acknowledge that getting gambling disorder recorded as a causal factor was an achievement – our family has always known it was.” She described the difficulty of having the inquest examine gambling as a cause of death. “Without private funding, support, and a coroner willing to even consider investigating gambling… reaching the outcome we did won't be possible for all the families who deserve it,” Ashbolt added. Doctors Need More Training Recently, another UK inquest found that Arthur Soames died from “mental health distress worsened by gambling”. The law firm Leigh Day represented both the Soames and Adams families. Solicitor Dan Webster observed that even when Soames sought help from his GP for mental health issues, “no gambling screening questions were posed at any point.” Morris advocates for change, and Soames' family also feels greater GP awareness might have averted his death. They highlighted that although the 19-year-old confessed to his doctor about spending excessive time and money gambling, no steps were taken to revise his risk assessment or care plan. “Arthur’s family is convinced it is crucial for healthcare workers to get suitable training and direction so that indicators of gambling harm can be spotted and addressed,” Webster stated. Does Screening Make a Difference? Research examining whether to screen for gambling-related harm risk concluded that it is practical for doctors to perform such screenings. Nevertheless, its efficacy and cost-effectiveness require further assessment. Additional studies indicate that screening and short interventions concerning the risks of smoking, drinking, and gambling can have modest impacts on reducing dangerous behaviors. For some gamblers, reaching out for assistance can be the most significant hurdle. This week, a person recovering from gambling addiction shared that he kept his issue secret for fear of judgment. “Shame held me back. I know the advice is not to fear seeking help, but I believe it's preferable to keep it private,” said the anonymous individual. “I don't want the 'gambling addict' label. It seems like a personal failure, a sign of weakness.” Research consistently shows individuals tend to underreport their own smoking, drinking, and gambling. An Australian study revealed that a mere 4% of gamblers correctly reported their net wins or losses. Alongside encouraging doctors to ask about gambling, the coroner also advised GPs to caution patients about prescription drug risks, which contributed to Adams' death. 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) -   Unlicensed bookmakers across the UK received a notable boost last week after a judge ruled that Alan Spence must pay more than $1 million in outstanding debt to David Solomon, even though the 78-year-old Solomon runs his bookmaking operation without a valid license. Spence had argued that the debts were not legally enforceable because Solomon lacked a gambling license. However, the presiding judge for the case, Stuart Isaacs KC, ultimately ruled in Solomon’s favour. While Isaacs confirmed that Solomon had been operating as an unlicensed bookmaker, he ruled that this status did not impact the legal enforceability of the debts owed to him, which add up to £841,520.25 ($1.11 million). Following the ruling, Spence was forced to step down from his post as vice president of the Racehorse Owners Association (ROA). In an official statement, the ROA noted: “While we will not be making any further comments on this case, we wish to publicly record our sincere gratitude to Alan for his commitment and years of service to the ROA.” Spence still retains his role as Vice President of Chelsea Football Club. The club did not provide any response when contacted for comment on the court ruling. Murky World of Unlicensed Gambling Even though clear evidence that Solomon was running an illegal gambling business has emerged, he has not faced any consequences for his activities to date. Isaacs criticised the opaque, unregulated gambling space in his verdict. He stated that the case “offers a rare look into the unlicensed betting world”, a space that “involved regular deception between the two parties as well as deception of third parties, which neither side appeared to view as legally or even morally problematic at the time.” Spence first ran up £582,144 (roughly $760,000) in gambling debts through bets placed with Solomon. He then lied about his financial situation, claiming he could not afford to repay the debts and had already reached agreements with creditors for a debt reduction plan. He even went so far as to invent fake meetings with those creditors. “I shouldn’t have done that, as we had already agreed to a settlement. It was a foolish choice to make. I had no reason to do it, it was completely irrational,” Spence admitted during the court proceedings. Solomon agreed to write down the total debt to £175,000 ($231,000). The two men also reached a separate agreement for Spence to place wagers on Solomon’s behalf on the online gambling platform Spreadex. Imaginary Bookie ‘George’ Damages Defence Instead of placing the bets as he had been instructed, Spence tried to keep the funds Solomon had given him for the wagers. He lied about having placed the bets, then claimed he had started placing them with a different unlicensed bookmaker who went only by the name “George.” Solomon’s legal team argued that George was another fabrication invented by Spence. Spence’s defence team removed all mentions of George’s involvement from their final closing submissions to the court. This false account appears to have significantly harmed Spence’s case, as Isaacs commented: “The details about George provided by the defendant are not credible, and in my judgment, were designed to add legitimacy to a story that is entirely made up…Put simply, George did not exist, and I find that the defendant’s testimony about George was untruthful.” He added that Spence’s “dishonest conduct” means he is “far from innocent for the position he now finds himself in.” Will Solomon Face Charges? In his ruling, Isaacs noted that the appropriate response to Solomon running an unlicensed gambling business is not to cancel Spence’s debts, but to pursue criminal prosecution against Solomon. He observed that Spence is a multi-millionaire, not a vulnerable person who requires legal protection. In a separate case last December, unlicensed bookmaker Haydon Simcock faced criminal prosecution. Simcock had threatened customers and refused to pay out winning wagers. The court ordered him to repay all his outstanding debts and handed him a suspended prison sentence. In Solomon’s specific case, he has not been accused of intimidating Spence or taking any steps to deceive him into losing money. “The defendant’s own testimony confirmed that the claimant never applied excessive pressure on him to restart or increase the value of his gambling. He engaged with the claimant fully aware of the circumstances, first suspecting and then knowing for certain that the claimant was not a licensed bookmaker,” Isaacs stated in his ruling. This finding appears to have cleared Solomon of wrongdoing in this context. He also claims that before he met Spence, he only placed small-stakes bets on behalf of friends and acquaintances. His main line of business is office furniture sales. UK Sends Mixed Messages on Illegal Gambling Solomon does not appear to have run a large-scale gambling operation, which may allow him to avoid criminal prosecution. However, this outcome sends conflicting signals about whether running an unlicensed gambling business is acceptable in the UK. The UK government has stated it is increasing its efforts to stamp out the illegal gambling black market. Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross is leading the government’s Illegal Gambling Taskforce. As part of its wider efforts to address the issue, the government has launched a public consultation on sponsorship of Premier League football clubs by unlicensed gambling operators. Currently, several gambling firms that are blocked from operating in the UK have sponsorship deals with Premier League teams, including Stake, which sponsors Everton FC. “This consultation, alongside the ongoing work of our Illegal Gambling Taskforce, shows just how seriously this government is taking this issue. We will not hesitate to take action whenever we see people being put at risk,” Twycross said. As Isaacs noted, Spence was not a person at risk of harm in this case, but the ruling also clears Solomon of wrongdoing and could encourage other people to continue operating as illegal bookmakers. “If authorities can’t take any action over a case that operates as openly as this one, it highlights just how difficult a challenge they are facing,” professional gambler Neil Channing said in comments to the Racing Post. 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 is looking to draft rules that would mandate biometric verification for sports betting accounts, place limits on how gambling operators utilize artificial intelligence, and require sportsbooks to step in when customer behavior indicates potential gambling harm. Gov. Kathy Hochul first proposed stricter gambling safeguards during her January 13 State of the State address, then unveiled specific draft proposals on Monday as the New York State Gaming Commission published them for public feedback. The aim of these proposed rules is to keep minors off betting apps and bolster responsible gaming protections for adult users. In the press release announcing the proposed safeguards, Hochul stated: “Mobile sports wagering is ubiquitous, luring everyone — including our young people — to place bets without fully weighing the consequences. We need robust regulatory safeguards to stop those under 21 from gambling, prevent artificial intelligence from targeting vulnerable gamblers, and mandate that sports wagering operators take concrete action if any of their customers exhibit signs of gambling harm.” She also noted that “only legal, fully regulated gaming offers these types of protections.” The Gaming Commission will accept input on the draft language until May 15, gathering feedback from all stakeholders impacted by the proposed rules, including operators, problem gambling specialists, schools, parent advocacy groups, and religious organizations. New York Considers Biometric Checks to Prevent Underage Betting One of the most ambitious and potentially divisive proposals would mandate that sports bettors provide their biometric data when creating an account with a sportsbook, then complete a second verification check before placing a bet. Existing sportsbook account holders will be granted a two-month period to submit their biometric data, and those who fail to comply will have their accounts shut down. New York regulators are also looking to implement device registration controls to block underage users from downloading betting apps. The state will also require licensed operators to use geolocation tools to prevent users from accessing apps on devices not linked to their account, or from locations that are too distant for the user to reasonably be present at both spots around the same time. Under the proposed rules, any adult who allows a minor to gamble could face a statewide ban on all legal gambling activities, including the lottery, attending casino concerts, dining at casino restaurants, and horse racing. Draft Rules Mandate Intervention for At-Risk Gamblers The proposed rules will also require operators to do their part to advance responsible gaming practices. One key requirement is halting the use of AI-powered tools to deliver personalized promotions or recommend wager sizes to customers. Mobile sports wagering app operators will be mandated to appoint a dedicated responsible gaming lead and conduct monitoring for signs of potentially risky player behavior. The proposed rules align with the concept of embedding responsible gaming tools directly into the user experience. In an interview with CasinoBeats, Wondr Nation CEO Anika Howard noted that the industry should build responsible gaming practices into product development, including “engaging players from their first interaction.”“Are there onboarding processes that can be used to educate new players? Could we embed step-by-step play guides, odds explanations, budget tracking tools, and account setup resources so these are not just optional add-ons to the user journey?” The New York proposal lays out exactly these requirements for in-state operators. Under the draft rules, several behaviors will trigger operator intervention: deposits exceeding $10,000 within a 24-hour window, total account activity surpassing $1 million over 90 days, or a 50% jump in daily logged-in time when compared to prior weeks. The draft rules outline a three-phase intervention process for operators once they flag an at-risk customer using the established trigger list. These steps start with sending responsible gaming resources to the customer, progress to requiring the player to watch an educational video before placing another bet, and include suspending the account until the user has a direct conversation with the dedicated responsible gaming lead. In the most severe cases, operators will be required to permanently close the customer’s account. The push to enact these protections comes as New York’s three downstate casino licensees — Bally’s Bronx, Hard Rock Metropolitan Park, and Resorts World New York City — are forecast to generate annual gaming revenues of up to $5.6 billion once they are fully up and running. 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) -   Meta has begun a trial of a paid subscription service for Instagram, named Instagram Plus, in a limited number of countries, as reported by TechCrunch. This test introduces enhanced Story capabilities and represents a new avenue for Meta as it investigates subscription models for its platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp. Good to Know Instagram Plus offers Story functionalities not available in the standard version of the app. It is reported that users can view a Story without the creator being notified. Posts on social media suggest the test is active in Mexico, Japan, and the Philippines, with pricing specific to each country. Meta Adds Paid Story Features to Instagram Test Stories are the primary focus of this new test. Subscribers to Instagram Plus gain the ability to watch Stories anonymously and also access data on how many times their own Stories have been rewatched. According to TechCrunch, subscribers can also search through their viewer lists, eliminating the manual process of scrolling through every name. The service also provides subscribers with greater control over their Story's audience. Beyond the standard Close Friends list, users can create an unlimited number of custom audience lists, selecting different groups for different posts. Additionally, users can extend a Story's lifespan by an extra 24 hours and highlight one Story each week to feature it at the beginning of their Stories tray for their followers. Meta is also evaluating a set of more expressive features within the same subscription. Subscribers can send an animated Superlike on Stories posted by others, introducing a new paid method of interaction within the app. Collectively, these features indicate Meta is gauging user willingness to pay for enhanced privacy settings, greater visibility, and more sophisticated tools for managing Story sharing.While Meta has not officially confirmed the test markets, TechCrunch states that social media posts point to Mexico, Japan, and the Philippines. User-shared screenshots reveal a monthly cost of MX$39 in Mexico, ¥319 in Japan, and PHP 65 in the Philippines. 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 March Madness Final Four field is set following UConn’s remarkable comeback victory against Duke on Sunday. Saturday’s schedule features No. 3 Illinois vs. No. 2 UConn (6:09 ET, TBS) and No. 1 Michigan vs. No. 1 Arizona (8:49 ET, TBS). Take a moment to revisit yesterday’s spectacular buzzer-beater by Braylon Mullins: BRAYLON MULLINS. THE SHOT. https://t.co/0V6OnPolR2 pic.twitter.com/5B83KGMdVT— UConn Men's Basketball (@UConnMBB) March 29, 2026 Let’s review the Final Four betting lines before diving into our analysis and selections. Final Four Odds at DraftKings Sportsbook As of this writing, DraftKings lists Illinois as a 2.5-point favorite over UConn with an over/under of 139.5, while Michigan is favored by 1.5 points against Arizona with a total set at 157.5. Here are the current championship futures for the remaining programs: Michigan +175 Arizona +175 Illinois +400 UConn +550 Best Bet Illinois vs. UConn: Against the Spread UConn erased a 19-point deficit to defeat Duke in the Elite Eight. The Huskies (33-5) are spearheaded by center Tarris Reed Jr. (14.7 ppg, 8.8 rpg) and forward Alex Karaban (13.2 ppg, 5.2 rpg). While Duke held Karaban to just five points yesterday, Reed stepped up with a team-high 26 points. The Huskies may see those roles flip against Illinois, whose interior defense restricted Iowa to only seven two-point baskets. Illinois is led offensively by freshman standout Keaton Wagler, who tallied 25 points in the Illini’s 71-59 victory over Iowa. Additionally, David Mirkovic has been a dominant force on the boards for the Illini throughout the NCAA Tournament. Here is a look at his rebounding totals across all four games: Penn (17) VCU (5) Houston (10) Iowa (12) Mirkovic is averaging 11 rebounds per game during the tournament. UConn averages 18 fouls per contest, ranking 225th in the country. Given that trend and the stifling nature of the Illini’s interior defense, we favor the favorite to win and cover in the opening semifinal. Pick: Illinois -2.5 (-102 at DraftKings) Best Bet Michigan vs. Arizona: UNDER 157.5 Michigan has eclipsed 90 points in every tournament game thus far. Arizona has been slightly less explosive, though they did put up 109 points against Arkansas in the Sweet 16. Why might this matchup stay under the total? Arizona played a lower-scoring game in the Elite Eight, defeating Purdue 79-64. It is worth noting that Purdue defeated Michigan in the Big Ten title game prior to the NCAA Tournament. While the Wildcats do most of their damage in the paint, Michigan offers a significant defensive hurdle with 7-foot-3 center Aday Mara anchoring the rim. KenPom currently ranks the Wolverines No. 1 in adjusted defensive efficiency, and Arizona limits opponents to 39% shooting from the floor. We recommend taking the UNDER on this high total. Pick: UNDER 157.5 (-110) Best Player Props for Final Four UConn’s Alex Karaban OVER 11.5 Points (-122 at FanDuel) Although Duke contained Karaban, he recorded 22, 27, and 17 points in his previous three tournament appearances. Illinois’ defensive strength is inside, but Karaban is a perimeter threat. Iowa managed to shoot 37% from deep, hitting 11 three-pointers against the Illini. Karaban, who leads the Huskies with 73 made three-pointers this season, shoots 38.6% from beyond the arc. This matchup presents an ideal opportunity for the senior forward to bounce back. Michigan’s Yaxel Lendeborg OVER 16.5 Points (-114 at FanDuel) Yaxel Lendeborg is putting together a performance worthy of Most Outstanding Player honors. His last three outings have been remarkably efficient: 27 points, seven rebounds vs. Tennessee 23 points, 12 rebounds vs. Alabama 25 points, 6 rebounds vs. St. Louis You might also consider betting him to go OVER 2.5 three-pointers at +200 odds, as he has hit three, four, and three shots from deep in those respective 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) -   The Ukrainian gaming regulator has revoked the operating licence of the betting firm Patriot’s lottery. The regulator, PlayCity, stated it took action after receiving information about Patriot’s operator from the Ukrainian State Bureau of Investigation. On its Telegram channel, PlayCity wrote: “When issuing licenses to lottery operators and gambling organizers, we always involve law enforcement agencies.” Following a “comprehensive check” of the company and its connections, the bureau and the regulator agreed that Patriot was “non-compliant with legislative requirements.” The decision deals a significant blow to Patriot, which obtained its operating permit only in late January this year. PlayCity initially granted lottery operating permits to just three firms: the aforementioned Patriot, MSL, and the Ukrainian National Lottery. Earlier this month, the Ministry of Digital Transformation confirmed that all three lottery operators had successfully paid the government the mandatory 24.2 million hryvnia ($554,000) licensing fee, as reported by the Ukrainian media outlet Interfax-Ukraine. A Ukrainian scratch card issued by the gambling operator Patriot. (Image: @naFARTnya/YouTube/Screenshot) Ukrainian Regulator: Lottery Operator Failed Compliance Check “The modern Ukrainian lottery market prioritizes security for the state and citizens, as well as the transparency and accountability of businesses,” PlayCity wrote. “We will continue to establish honest and understandable operational rules, under which only trustworthy operators will conduct business.” The regulator provided no further explanation for its decision, though Patriot retains the right to challenge it in court. Patriot began offering gambling products in the Ukrainian market in 1997. According to the Ukrainian media outlet Liga, the company is owned by the British firm Andalidi Invest. Liga reported that its “ultimate owner and beneficiary” is Andriy Matyukha. The outlet noted that between 2015 and 2018, the National Security and Defense Council imposed sanctions on Patriot. Lawmaker’s Accusations Lawmaker Danylo Hetmantsev, a member of the Verkhovna Rada’s tax committee, has repeatedly claimed that Matyukha holds Russian citizenship. Matyukha has denied these claims. In a post on his Facebook page last year, Hetmantsev referred to Matyukha as “a swindler with a Russian passport.” The Ukrainian gambling sector has drawn attention in recent months, with some lawmakers calling for a ban on online casino use by members of the armed forces. This month, Ukrainian casino industry officials dismissed claims from critics that gambling is rampant in the country’s military. Gambling industry officials stated that military personnel “gamble no more than the average Ukrainian.” They noted that gambling addiction is not widespread in the military, “nor is it unique to any group, including military personnel.” Late last year, PlayCity announced it had blocked residents’ access to over 2,500 illegal online casinos. 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) -   In the past week, new lawsuits have targeted US betting firms, accusing them of promoting problematic gambling habits. In the UK, Bet365 faced criticism for not stepping in to prevent the death of a 19-year-old gambler. This has sparked debate over the responsibility of operators when gamblers lose control. We spoke with a recovered gambling addict to learn about his journey to overcoming the issue and his perspective on who bears blame. A UK inquest determined that Arthur Soames died by suicide, with his mental health struggles worsened by gambling. The coroner stated that on the day of his death, Soames had “drained all available funds and credit.” “That’s exactly how I felt,” remembers another UK resident who acknowledges battling a gambling addiction. He chose to stay anonymous, having never disclosed the full extent of his struggles to friends or family. “I took out bank loans, maxed out my overdraft, and had nothing left. I recall placing accumulators—parlays for those in the US—that could have recouped some losses. One looked set to win, but a team from a country I’d never heard of scored in the final minute, making me lose. I collapsed on the floor, screaming.” We asked the anonymous gambler about his recovery in an interview this week. “I searched online for ways to get out of debt and found something called Debt Management Plans. I contacted StepChange, and they were incredible. They reached out to my banks, froze interest on my loans, and I set up a repayment plan.” StepChange is a free UK service that assists people in managing debt. With a manageable payment plan, his finances stabilized, though the urge to gamble remained strong. “I still thought maybe I could win it all back. I’d been up before—had around £10,000 ($13,000) in my bank at one point. But then I lost it all and kept losing, trying to recover what I’d spent. “I lost that £10,000 and another £10,000. The biggest issue was chasing losses. I’d gamble on sports; if I lost, I’d switch to online casino games like blackjack or roulette, hoping to win back what I’d lost. Then I’d lose there too and keep gambling more to recover.” He remembers a day when he lost over £7,000 in a single session. “I used to have a strategy: I’d draw a line of how much I wanted to win. If I aimed for £100, I’d list five £20 increments. I’d place a bet combining two numbers—if I won, I’d cross off two; if I lost, I’d add one. In theory, I could profit by winning fewer times than losing. With a 50-50 bet like red or black on roulette, I thought it was a solid strategy. It worked—that’s how I won £10,000. But then it failed, and I lost 12 spins in a row.” The gambler’s fallacy suggests that if the roulette wheel lands on red, black becomes more likely next. Some roulette strategies advise increasing stakes, doubling down. Such traps can lead players to lose large sums. A different approach might be that of AC Milan manager Max Allegri, who gave large tips to dealers to influence wheel spins toward winning bets. “I kept betting on red, but it kept landing on black. The numbers on my line grew, and soon my bank account was empty. I think I lost over £2,000 on one spin—more than I earned in a month.” How did he stop? “After enrolling in the debt management plan, my mindset shifted. I finally realized I’d never get back that £10,000 I’d won. I gave up.” “I also left the UK. That helped—no more gambling shops around, no gambling ads in sight.” Are Gambling Companies to Blame? Calls to ban gambling advertising in the UK have grown louder. Starting next season, the Premier League will no longer feature betting companies on the front of team shirts, though anti-gambling groups urge the government to take more action and restrict all promotions. “Substantial evidence shows gambling harms many who engage with it and those around them, with advertising key to both starting and increasing gambling,” says the Coalition to End Gambling Advertising (CEGA). “There’s also evidence that gambling ads threaten recovery for those who’ve stopped.” The gambler we spoke to said changing his environment was crucial to quitting. He moved to a country with few betting options and made new friends who didn’t discuss gambling. Is banning gambling ads the solution? “I’m not sure ads need to be banned. Most people can bet without issues, but I lose control. It’s the same with other vices—alcohol, drugs, smoking, you name it.” Do you blame gambling companies? “No. I was the one who lost the money. I placed the bets. I don’t believe the companies went out of their way to encourage me. I think the key is for people to be informed. Understand your chances of winning. Consider how much you can afford to lose and never try to recoup losses. Money will return over time. It took me around four years to repay all I’d lost. At first, it seemed like it would never end, but I settled all debts about eight years ago.” Last week, we spoke to Robert Walker, author of a new book on DraftKings and the backlash the company faces over claims it promotes problematic gambling. Walker similarly emphasized that gamblers should take responsibility and understand why operators offer incentives like free bets to encourage gambling. Empathy Is Everything Are you still tempted to gamble? “Not really. I might bet on football (soccer) sometimes, but I know I won’t make money. Since paying off my debt, I’ve barely placed any bets.” Did you seek other help? “No. I never told anyone. Shame held me back. People say you shouldn’t fear asking for help, but I preferred keeping it to myself. I knew friends or family would be shocked and judge me. I didn’t want to be labeled a gambling addict—it feels like a failure, like weakness.” Noah Vineberg, another recovering gambling addict, says, “Empathy is everything.” He added, “Recovery is the greatest gift you’ll ever give yourself.” If you’re struggling with gambling and want to share your story, contact adam@casinobeats.com. Resources are available to help in the UK and the US. 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) -   Commercial and tribal casinos are actively engaging lobbyists to represent their interests, engaging in a competitive effort against prediction markets as the debate over the legality of sports event contracts intensifies. Kalshi CEO Tarek Mansour has alleged that casino lobbyists are behind recent legislative efforts aimed at prohibiting prediction markets. Casino lobby hard at work.There is a reason tens of millions of people use regulated prediction markets: it’s a better product.Banning just pushes this offshore, where no regulation exists.This bill isn’t about protecting consumers; it’s about protecting monopolies. https://t.co/otzm0U4Te8— Tarek Mansour (@mansourtarek_) March 23, 2026 Senator Adam Schiff was a co-sponsor of the Prediction Markets are Gambling Act introduced last week. Tribal casino groups are among the significant contributors to Schiff’s campaigns. The Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria in the Bay Area and the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians each donated $100,000 to a pro-Schiff PAC. These tribal groups have vigorously worked to maintain their exclusive control over gambling operations in California. The two tribes collectively contributed over $40 million to a campaign that opposed Proposition 26, a measure that would have legalized sports betting in the state. Kalshi has previously run advertisements with the slogan, “Sports betting in California is now legal.” Consequently, it is unsurprising that politicians supported by tribal interests are intensifying their efforts to impede the company. Schiff is also a co-sponsor of legislation designed to prevent government officials from profiting from event contracts by using insider information. Kalshi Responds With Increased Funding On the opposing side, Mansour and Kalshi are escalating their efforts to advocate for the legality of sports prediction markets. The company allocated over $1 million to lobbying initiatives last year. Only two gambling organizations, the American Gaming Association (AGA) and the Gila River Indian Community, invested more in lobbying. The AGA comprises numerous tribal groups, and several of its members have strongly opposed sports event contracts. This has created internal discord within the organization, leading to the departure of FanDuel and DraftKings as they introduce their own prediction market platforms. Kalshi’s largest expenditure last year was $430,000 to Miller Strategies LLC for “issues regarding rule proposal before the CFTC.” This firm collaborates closely with Donald Trump Jr., who serves as an advisor to both Kalshi and Polymarket. Furthermore, several officials appointed by Trump have a vested interest in maintaining the legal standing of sports prediction markets. According to ProPublica, three of these officials hold assets in Kalshi, 46 have connections to Robinhood, and 138 are linked to Coinbase. Trump Media has also entered into a partnership with Crypto.com, a deal that will integrate the platform’s markets into Truth Social. Financial Influence Drives Stance Changes Kalshi also provided $180,000 to the Lincoln Policy Group last year. This financial support contributed to a shift in the stance of its founder, former Sen. Blanche Lincoln, regarding sports event contracts. Previously, she had stated that sports contracts “would not serve any real commercial purpose. Rather, they would be used solely for gambling.” She is now registered as a lobbyist for Kalshi. In July of the previous year, she sent a letter to the CFTC, urging the organization not to impose restrictions on sports markets. The establishment of the Coalition for Prediction Markets is expected to result in intensified lobbying efforts. According to experts, its members, including Kalshi, Coinbase, and Robinhood, are positioned to rival the casino lobby groups. “We believe these groups have the balance sheets to sustain prolonged political influence and lobbying efforts,” Citizens analyst Jordan Bender informed Sportico. Last year, casino and gambling-affiliated groups spent nearly $50 million on lobbying, a record high. They may need to increase this spending further as prediction markets intensify their advocacy. 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) -   Sports advocates, prominent politicians, and championship-winning players are calling on Thai officials to remove snooker from gambling-related legislation. These demands follow a surge in Thai snooker popularity triggered by Thepchaiya Un-Nooh’s recent victory. Un-Nooh, known as “F1,” claimed victory at the World Open in Yushan, China, earlier this month, defeating Ronnie O’Sullivan, one of snooker's greatest players ever, in the championship match. Thepchaiya Un-Nooh triumphed at the World Open in Yushan, China, earlier this year. The Thai champion beat the seasoned British player 10-7, achieving a perfect 147 break during the match. However, supporters contend that aspiring young Thai snooker players face obstacles in emulating Un-Nooh's success due to a 1935 law. Thai Snooker Gambling Classification ‘Hurts Players’ According to Thai publication The Standard, the Gambling Act categorizes snooker and billiards as "gambling-like activities" instead of sports. These non-sporting classifications require official permits that are difficult for smaller clubs to acquire, and effectively prohibit players under 18 from participating in snooker. This categorization also restricts the growth of snooker infrastructure, youth training programs, and commercial tournaments. Kongsak Yodmani, Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), announced that the authority will soon file an official petition with the Ministry of Interior to exclude snooker from the Gambling Act. The SAT governor stated that this action would help "elevate snooker" to recognition as a "fully professional sport," creating opportunities for structural development across youth and national programs. Kongsak added that the new classification would enable Thai companies and sports organizations to host snooker events and produce income for the government. Champion Speaks Out The SAT pledged to require club owners to post clear warning signs about gambling risks during matches. "This issue requires discussion between the SAT and the snooker association," Kongsak explained. "All stakeholders must establish clear boundaries and show that our goal in reclassifying snooker is purely to promote it as a sport." The SAT and other supporters held a press conference on March 25, calling on the government to support their proposal. Participants included Un-Nooh, who told journalists that snooker "has been a part of Thai society for a long time," according to Thai news source Thairath Online. People's Party legislator Rakchanok Srinok urged the government to take swift action following Un-Nooh's triumph. She emphasized the significance of enabling young talents to train and achieve international recognition. In the Spotlight Thailand's gambling regulations have attracted significant attention recently. Last year, under former Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the government attempted to classify poker as a sport. Bangkok aimed to draw major poker events to the nation and build integrated casino resorts. However, after the Constitutional Court removed Paetongtarn from office, the government reversed its position, reclassifying poker as gambling. Anti-gambling advocates have also condemned politicians for exploiting lottery policies to gain votes. Thais reportedly wager approximately $8 billion annually on lottery tickets, yet several political parties promised voters they would expand lottery offerings. In the lead-up to last month's general election, the ruling Pheu Thai Party vowed to create nine new "millionaires" daily if victorious. The party pledged to reform current lotteries to guarantee nine winners per day of a 1 million baht prize, valued at over $30,000. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   As the Final Four is now determined and March Madness approaches its conclusion, findings from a recent NCAA Student-Athlete Needs, Aspirations and Perspectives (SNAP) survey illuminate how sports wagering continues to influence the experiences of numerous Division I athletes.Men's Division I basketball players indicated the highest levels of betting-related mistreatment in the survey, with one in three stating that fans had directly held them responsible for gambling losses, while close to half (46%) experienced some type of online, verbal, or physical harassment. A majority of student-athletes (52%) feel that sports betting leads to undue examination of athletes, while 55% indicated it erodes the integrity of competition. In the press release announcing the survey results, NCAA President Charlie Baker said: "This season can be enchanting for numerous players, yet it can swiftly turn into a horror story because of mistreatment from fans who participate in sports betting. The NCAA is vigorously striving to safeguard collegiate athletes by tracking abuse via our partnerships with Signify and Venmo, and we are taking all possible measures to stop student-athletes from encountering such mistreatment. However, sportsbooks and regulators in certain states could take further action immediately by removing the proposition wagers that we know are causing harassment." Men's Basketball Players Endure the Bulk of Fan Mistreatment The NCAA sent the survey to nearly 56,000 Division I student-athletes at participating institutions from February 23 to March 2. In total, 7,493 athletes from 154 schools replied. Per the NCAA, the survey examined social media usage, views on betting and athletic integrity, firsthand encounters with bettor mistreatment, and the impact such abuse can have on wellness and athletic output. Although the study revealed that worries about sports betting are common, the outcomes for men's basketball were particularly notable. The survey indicates that 33% of Division I men's basketball players stated that fans directly faulted them for their gambling losses, with an additional 44% experiencing online mistreatment, and 26% encountering verbal or physical abuse. In total, 65% of surveyed athletes think that when fans single out players regarding sports betting, "the competitive spirit is undermined," while 62% stated that betting-related mistreatment "diminishes confidence between fans and athletes." The survey discovered that the impact of betting-related abuse extends well beyond an athlete's email or social media comment threads. Among athletes who had personally experienced mistreatment, 18% reported that it diminished their pleasure in participating in their sport. Another 14% said it undermined their self-assurance in their abilities, and 11% indicated it adversely impacted their athletic performance. Disturbing Trends Recognized Across Multiple Studies The most recent results contribute to a growing collection of research showing that harassment of prominent collegiate athletes by gamblers is growing more frequent, a problem the NCAA has highlighted repeatedly throughout the past year. Last November's SNAP research revealed that 36% of Division I men's basketball players had encountered betting-related mistreatment on social media during the prior year. Subsequently, in February, the NCAA's GOALS research discovered that 46% of Division I men's basketball players had gotten negative or menacing communications from individuals who had gambled on their contests. The GOALS study additionally found that 29% of players polled said they had engaged with fellow students on campus who had placed bets on their team. Though men's basketball players confront a "torrent" of mistreatment, other athletics demonstrate significantly reduced frequencies. For instance, merely 17% of FBS football players and 3% of DI men's soccer players reported getting menacing messages from gamblers. As the NCAA persists in its initiative to prohibit college player proposition wagers, these discoveries demonstrate that such worries are based on proof that present betting frameworks are progressively connected to the targeting and intimidation of student-athletes. 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.