分類: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) -   Ho-Chunk Nation confirms that Ho-Chunk Gaming Beloit is on track, with the casino portion scheduled to open on September 26, 2026. The project represents one of eight major developments we are monitoring for 2026 at iGaming.org. Key Facts Construction commenced in October 2024 at Willowbrook and Colley roads in Beloit following the securing of $610 million in financing. The casino floor will span over 240,000 square feet. The facility is expected to generate more than 1,000 jobs in the Beloit region. Beloit is poised to become an expanded gaming destination along the Wisconsin-Illinois border. After years of planning, the casino project will feature 1,500 slot machines, areas for live entertainment, and a selection of more than six food and beverage venues. A hotel component is planned but not yet under construction. The Ho-Chunk Nation anticipates approximately 200 guest rooms, with the final number subject to demand assessments. That phase of the resort is targeted for completion in mid-2027. Job Creation and Regional Competition Bring Added Attention Hiring efforts have already begun. Ho-Chunk Gaming Beloit will conduct a recruitment event from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on June 2 to 4 at the Beloit College Library, located at 735 College Street.Ho-Chunk Nation President Jon Greendeer emphasized that the project will benefit local workers, vendors, and small businesses. “It’s the mom-and-pop businesses that truly benefit when a major industry like this enters the community—we can’t bring in talent from Minneapolis or Chicago; it must be sourced locally,” said Greendeer. The resort will incorporate Ho-Chunk cultural elements through artwork, design, and architectural details reflecting tribal heritage in the Beloit area. “We never really left there,” he remarked. “It remains a vital part of our cultural landscape.”Competition is nearby. Hard Rock Casino Rockford intends to add a hotel by late 2027, situated about 18 miles south of Beloit. During that announcement, Geno Iafrate, president of Hard Rock Casino Rockford, directly referenced the new competitor. “Everyone is aware of our competition. New competition is entering the market just 18 miles north of us,” said Iafrate. “We must protect Hard Rock Casino Rockford and defend this entire region by continuing to grow.” Greendeer described the Beloit casino as a regional economic initiative serving both states. “There’s no doubt we have the best gaming industry in the Midwest,” stated Greendeer. “In terms of competition, we’ve already succeeded by ensuring the project brings mutual benefits to Illinois and Wisconsin, Rock County, and the city of Beloit.” “We’ve already proven that. We aren’t sending money out of the area—we’re keeping it here so everyone can prosper together,” he added. South Beloit anticipates increased traffic and commercial activity due to the casino corridor. Mayor Tom Fitzgerald noted that while the city will not receive direct casino revenue, it will observe growth in local business.“I’d be even more excited if we shared in the profits, but we don’t,” said Fitzgerald. “We’re essentially watching from the sidelines as others profit.” 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 research into live sports viewing habits ahead of the 2026 World Cup has revealed that Flashscore has been recognized as the fastest sports results platform by UK fans. Key Findings Flashscore was identified as the quickest platform by 46% of 2,000 UK sports fans surveyed. Fans in Italy and Brazil reported even higher speed ratings for Flashscore, at 49% and 53% respectively. Globally, Flashscore now serves over 125 million monthly users. For individuals following live scores, speed is a fundamental requirement. Even a few seconds' delay can significantly impact how fans engage with football, tennis, basketball, cricket, and other sports on match days. The UK survey indicated that 46% of 2,000 sports fans selected Flashscore as the fastest sports app or results platform. Similar findings emerged from research conducted in other major football-centric markets. In Italy, 49% of 2,000 respondents favored Flashscore, known locally as Diretta. In Brazil, 53% of 3,300 fans expressed the same preference. Flashscore Prioritizes Speed Through Localized Delivery Flashscore also received positive marks for its reliability. Italian users found Diretta to be more accurate than competing platforms and those offered by national broadcasters. In both the UK and Brazil, fans considered Flashscore's accuracy to be on par with or very close to that of its competitors and broadcaster platforms. Tomáš Kavka, Director of Engineering at Flashscore, commented: “It’s not a single technological breakthrough that resolves everything; rather, it’s the culmination of numerous small and significant decisions made over time. “While technically feasible to serve a user in South America from Europe, speed is intrinsically part of our identity. To achieve the fastest service on every continent, we must be as geographically close to the user as possible. The data needs to reach that location the instant it becomes available in our database.”As Flashscore approaches its 20th anniversary since its inception, it boasts a substantial global user base. The platform attracts more than 125 million monthly users, has surpassed 400 million app downloads across its entire portfolio, and generates approximately 145 billion monthly impressions. The UK has emerged as a significant market for Flashscore, with over four million app downloads in the region. The platform generates more than two billion monthly impressions, and users typically spend close to 30 minutes per day on average within the app. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   BGaming has entered into a new content partnership with JOKERBET, the online casino platform operated by Grupo Veramtic in Spain. Key Facts JOKERBET customers will gain access to BGaming's casino games. Grupo Veramtic has been active in Spain since 1986 and operates over 250 gaming halls nationwide. Featured BGaming titles include Lady Wolf Moon Megaways, Wild Tiger, and Bonanza Billion. With a strong presence in the land-based sector, JOKERBET brings decades of experience from the Spanish gaming industry. Grupo Veramtic has established a significant footprint across Spain with more than 250 gaming halls. The brand expanded into the digital space in 2017, combining its extensive retail expertise with an online casino offering. Through this collaboration, BGaming's full game portfolio is now integrated into JOKERBET’s platform. Players will have access to a range of BGaming titles, such as Lady Wolf Moon Megaways, Wild Tiger, Bonanza Billion, and additional offerings. Expanded Market Presence for BGaming in Spain This agreement enhances JOKERBET’s casino offerings while extending BGaming’s reach into one of Europe’s most mature online gaming markets. As Spain remains a highly competitive environment for regulated iGaming, strategic operator partnerships are especially valuable for suppliers aiming to strengthen their long-term market visibility. BGaming organizes its games under three main categories: #Entertainment, #Casual, and #Classic. All these categories will be made available to JOKERBET users under the terms of the new agreement. Paulina Hovar, Lead Sales Manager LATAM at BGaming, stated: "JOKERBET is a well-established online casino in Spain, known for delivering quality experiences to its players. Our games have already gained positive reception among Spanish audiences, and this partnership will help us deepen our presence in one of our core European markets." Javier Saiz, Product Manager at JOKERBET, commented: "We've closely followed BGaming’s innovative game development approach. Their products bring significant depth and high quality to our games lineup, and we're eager to see how our players respond to them." 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) -   Nolimit City has launched Tombstone Begins, a new Wild West-themed slot that revisits the origins of its popular Tombstone series. Key Facts Tombstone Begins offers a maximum win of 20,000x and is rated as Extremely Volatile. The game features three distinct bonus modes: Gunslinger Spins, Outlaw Spins, and Widowmaker Spins. Revolver symbols fire bullets that can trigger Wilds, xSplit® upgrades, xNudge® Wilds, and multipliers. Tombstone Begins does not continue from Tombstone Slaughter or Tombstone RIP. Instead, it takes players back to the very beginning of the Tombstone saga, presenting an origin story centered on outlaws, gunfire, respins, and stacked bonus mechanics. At the core of the gameplay is the Reel Area system, where winning symbols remain on screen for respins. New wins, matching symbols, Wilds, Bonus symbols in the base game, and Revolvers can also lock into place. This ensures that every paying combination keeps the feature active. Revolvers Drive The Main Action Each Revolver symbol holds between 3 and 6 bullets. During each spin, every Revolver fires one bullet at a reel symbol. Multiple Revolvers may appear, firing sequentially from left to right and top to bottom.Depending on the type of bullet fired, various features are activated. A Wild bullet transforms the target into a Wild. An xSplit® bullet splits paying symbols or Wilds and doubles their multiplier value. An Upgrade bullet converts any regular paying symbol—except the highest-paying one—into a higher-value symbol and applies this upgrade across all identical symbols on the reels. Other bullets activate xNudge® mechanics. An xNudge® Wild appears above reels 2 or 4 and nudges fully into view once respins conclude, increasing the win multiplier by +1 with each nudge. An xNudge® Multiplier lands above reels 2 through 4 and provides a multiplier boost of 2x, 3x, 10x, or 100x when paired with an activating xNudge® Wild on the same reel. Random bullets have the ability to transform into another bullet type, though bullets without valid targets simply vanish. Two additional symbols enhance the revolver mechanic. The Unleash symbol causes all remaining bullets in every Revolver to fire simultaneously. The Refill symbol reloads all Revolvers to their full capacity of six bullets. Only one Unleash and one Refill symbol can appear per spin, but they may both land together. Exciting Bonus Structure The bonus round consists of three tiers based on Nolimit Bonus symbols. Landing three Bonus symbols triggers 6 Gunslinger Spins, with each additional Bonus symbol granting one more spin. Four Bonus symbols initiate 8 Outlaw Spins, during which every Revolver starts fully loaded with six bullets. Five Bonus symbols unlock 10 Widowmaker Spins, combining the Outlaw Spins setup with the activation of xNudge® mechanics. In this mode, each Revolver fires all its bullets before xNudge® effects begin or before the final respin concludes after awarding a new respin.Following any bonus round, players may be offered an Extra Spin. Any active xNudge® multipliers persist, and the extra spin guarantees a Revolver carrying an xNudge® bullet. The cost varies depending on current xNudge® multipliers and only appears if the price is equal to or less than the total win achieved. Tombstone Begins also introduces four Nolimit Boosters. The Bonus Booster costs 2x the base bet and ensures a Bonus symbol appears on reel 2. xNudge® Showdown costs 30x and guarantees a Revolver equipped with two xNudge® bullets and two xNudge® multiplier bullets. xNudge® Fully Loaded costs 190x and provides a Revolver with three xNudge® bullets and three xNudge® multiplier bullets. Revolver Mayhem costs 999x and guarantees six Revolvers positioned at the top and bottom of reels 2, 3, and 4, including among them three xNudge® multiplier bullets and one xNudge® bullet. Per Lindheimer, Head of Product at Nolimit City, commented: “After the intense shootouts and violent scenes that made the Tombstone series famous, we wanted to return players to the moment the first outlaws arrived in town seeking to establish themselves. This time, the revolver has been enhanced so that every spin feels like an authentic Wild West showdown, where even a single bullet can dramatically alter the outcome. We're proud to deliver another chapter in the Tombstone story for our long-time fans who’ve followed this series since its inception.” 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 151st edition of the Preakness Stakes will take place on Saturday at Laurel Park in Laurel, Maryland. The race is scheduled for a post time of 6:50 p.m. ET and will be broadcast live on NBC. Iron Honor stands as the morning line favorite at 9-2 odds, trained by Chad Brown and assigned to post position No. 9. This year marks the first time since 1908 that the Preakness will not be held at Pimlico Race Course, which is currently undergoing extensive redevelopment. Preakness Stakes Field, Odds, Post Positions, Trainers, Jockeys Below is the complete list of the 14 horses competing in the 2026 Preakness Stakes: Post PositionHorseTrainerJockeyOdds1Taj MahalBrittany RussellSheldon Russell5-12OcelliWhit BeckmanTyler Gaffalione6-13CrupperDonnie Von HemelJunior Alvarado30-14RobustaDoug O’NeilRafael Bejarano30-15TalkinDanny GarganIrad Ortiz, Jr.20-16Chip HonchoSteve AsmussenJose Ortiz5-17The Hell We DidTodd FincherLuis Saez15-18Bull By The HornsSaffie Joseph Jr.Micah Husbands30-19Iron HonorChad BrownFlavien Prat9-210Napoleon SoloChad SummersPaco Lopez8-111Corona De OroDallas StewartJohn Velazquez30-112IncrediboltRiley MottJaime Torres5-113Great WhiteJohn EnnisAlex Achard15-114Pretty Boy MiahJeremiah EnglehartRicardo Santana Jr.15-1 Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo declined to run in the Preakness and is now targeting next month’s Belmont Stakes at Saratoga. Best Bets to Win Preakness Stakes Taj Mahal (5-1) Taj Mahal is undefeated in three races at Laurel Park, making this a familiar venue. Trainer Brittany Russell has the opportunity to become the first woman to win the Preakness, following in the footsteps of Cheri DeVaux, who made history by winning the Kentucky Derby with Golden Tempo. Taj Mahal recorded an impressive 92 Beyer Speed Figure in his most recent victory at Laurel Park, achieving a wire-to-wire triumph over nine furlongs—a distance similar to the Preakness, which is run over 9½ furlongs. His final five-furlong workout also demonstrated strong form. Chip Honcho (5-1) Chip Honcho drew post position No. 6, a gate that has produced more Preakness winners than any other (17). Trainer Steve Asmussen chose to bypass the Kentucky Derby in favor of the Preakness. Jockey Jose Ortiz, who rode Golden Tempo to victory in his first Kentucky Derby, has another shot at a Triple Crown win. Notably, Chip Honcho finished 5½ lengths ahead of Golden Tempo in December’s Risen Stakes, where he placed second behind Paladin after a strong performance. Ocelli (6-1) Ocelli entered the Kentucky Derby as a 70-1 longshot—the longest odds on the board—and nearly pulled off a stunning upset, finishing third by just one length. He also secured third place in the Wood Memorial, a key prep race for the Derby. Despite never having broken his maiden, Ocelli posted his highest Beyer Speed Figure (94) in the Kentucky Derby, positioning him competitively among the 14 contenders. If Ocelli wins on Saturday, he would make history as the first maiden to capture the Preakness since Refund did so in 1888. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Montreal Canadiens will host the Buffalo Sabres tonight for Game 4 of their second-round NHL playoff series. Puck drop at the Bell Centre is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET, with live coverage on ESPN. Montreal holds a 2-1 series lead after defeating Buffalo 6-2 on Sunday. DraftKings has the Canadiens as a -142 home favorite, with a total set at 6.5 goals. The moneyline handle and ticket sales show 56% and 60% support for Montreal, respectively. Best Bet: Sabres vs. Canadiens (Montreal -142) In Game 3, Montreal dominated, sending 36 shots on Buffalo goalie Alex Lyon in front of an energetic home crowd at the Bell Centre. The Canadiens continue to wait for significant contributions from Cole Caufield, who led the team with 51 goals during the regular season. This poses a serious challenge for Buffalo, which aims to split the games away from home tonight. Since losing Game 1 in Buffalo, Montreal has outscored opponents 11-3 over the last two games. The team secured its first consecutive playoff wins of the postseason. Goaltender Jakub Dobes has been outstanding in recent games, recording a combined 54 saves. Expect Nick Suzuki (shown above) to extend his point streak to five games, helping Montreal take a 3-1 series lead. Beyond the moneyline, consider a modest wager on Montreal -1.5 goals on the puckline at +170. Best Player Prop for Montreal Canadiens Cole Caufield OVER 0.5 Goals (+160) As noted, Caufield has been quiet this postseason, recording only two goals and six points across 10 games. However, the duo factor benefits his chances, along with Suzuki’s playmaking skills. Both players skate on Montreal’s top line and power play, positioning Caufield for high-danger opportunities. He finished second in the NHL in goals during the regular season, behind only Nathan MacKinnon. Best Player Prop for Buffalo Sabres Alex Tuch OVER 0.5 Points (-120) Like Caufield, Alex Tuch has struggled offensively against the Canadiens, failing to record a single point in the series. Tuch described Game 3 as his “worst defensive game” of the playoffs. He took accountability for it—now is the time for the veteran to elevate his performance against a Montreal squad focused on building a 3-1 series advantage. Despite limited production against the Canadiens, Tuch still leads the Sabres with four playoff goals. Look for a stronger effort from him tonight and expect him to contribute with either a goal or an assist. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   A Russian police chief accepted $29,000 in bribes from illegal casino operators, according to prosecutors in Samara. The Samara District Court ordered law enforcement to detain the suspect until July 4 ahead of a court hearing, as reported by the Russian news outlet Samarskaya Gazeta. The suspect, identified by the surname Korkin, serves as the deputy head of the Krasnoglinsky District Police Department within the Samara branch of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Prosecutors allege that operators of unlicensed casinos in the southwestern Russian city paid Korkin at least 2.15 million rubles in bribes. In exchange, Korkin reportedly agreed not to interfere with their illegal gambling operations and promised to redirect future criminal investigations against them. Prosecutors: Russian Police Chief Provided Advance Notice to Casino Operators Additionally, Korkin allegedly informed the operators that he would give them "advance notice" of upcoming police inspections. Prosecutors have indicted Korkin on charges related to the "illegal organization and conduct of gambling," as well as bribery "on an especially large scale." Central Samara, Russia. (Image: 007master [CC BY-SA 3.0]) Russian courts have intensified efforts to crack down on illegal casino operators in recent months, many of whom operate gambling services in major urban centers. Investigators note that these underground gambling establishments often employ advanced security measures to avoid detection. However, gambling addiction rates are increasing, prompting police to report a rise in related crimes. Moscow plans to address the issue by developing unified guidelines for diagnosing, treating, and preventing gambling addiction, as reported by the Russian media outlet RBC on May 7. The Ministry of Health announced that starting September 1, the government will offer free rehabilitation programs for individuals suffering from gambling addiction. These programs will be conducted at state-run drug treatment facilities and psychiatric clinics. New Addiction Guidelines Under Development Officials stated that the Serbsky National Medical Research Center of Psychiatry and Addiction, based in Moscow, will collaborate with the Russian Society of Psychiatrists to draft the guidelines. Currently, Russian medical professionals lack standardized recommendations for treating pathological gambling. Healthcare providers emphasize the urgent need for updated guidelines and resources. "In recent years, we have observed a sharp increase in the number of people developing gambling addictions," said Tatyana Klimenko, director of the National Scientific Center for Addiction. Experts interviewed by RBC highlighted that the most effective treatment approach remains psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy and participation in support groups modeled after Gamblers Anonymous. According to a recent report from the Russian media outlet RG, between 5% and 7% of Russian adults struggle with gambling addiction. Most affected individuals are male, aged between 18 and 35, officials noted. 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) -   South Korean Prime Minister Kim Min-seok has directed the nation’s gambling regulator to establish a “safety net” in response to an increase in youth gambling. Kim’s remarks came after the National Gambling Control Commission (NGCC), the country’s gambling regulator, appointed new board members, according to South Korean media outlet Newsis. The NGCC, which reports directly to the Prime Minister, oversees gaming operators and implements measures to combat gambling addiction. Kim urged the NGCC to develop new strategies to address the growing problem of gambling addiction among younger demographics. “The issue of youth gambling has become serious recently,” he stated. “Please dedicate all your efforts to prevention and the creation of a comprehensive safety net. We must ensure the stable development of our youth, who represent the future of our society.” South Korean Prime Minister Kim Min-seok (center). (Image: @newkms10/Facebook) South Korean Prime Minister: ‘A Gambling Quagmire’ The regulator comprises members from both public and private sectors, including government ministers, administrators, legal professionals, and representatives from the tourism industry. “The NGCC’s committee acts as a safeguard, preventing our society from descending into a gambling quagmire,” Kim commented. The Prime Minister’s statements followed research indicating a rise in youth gambling rates across South Korea. A senior lawmaker recently highlighted that the financial repercussions of youth gambling-related issues in South Korea have escalated to $1.4 billion. Despite Kim’s serious warnings, gambling presents a dual nature for the South Korean government, as several of the nation’s largest casino operators are state-owned. Revenue generated from gambling-related tourism is also experiencing significant growth. On the subtropical island province of Jeju alone, casinos generated a total of $436 million in the previous financial year. This figure represents a 41% increase compared to 2024. Jeju Casino Industry’s Revenue Boost Preliminary figures released earlier this month by the South Korean news agency Yonhap indicated that visitor numbers to Jeju casinos also increased by nearly 38%, reaching just under 100,000. The semitropical province of Jeju Island, South Korea. (Image: Hongbin) For the government, this translates into another substantial influx of funds through taxes and other levies. All casinos located in Jeju are mandated to contribute to the government-operated Jeju Tourism Promotion Fund. The amount of these contributions is determined by casino revenues. Consequently, the rise in visitor numbers and sales in FY2025 led Jeju casinos to contribute over $42 million to the fund, marking a 44% increase from FY2024. Casino revenues continue their upward trend. In the first quarter of FY2026, gaming revenues at the High1 integrated casino-resort reached 360 billion won ($244 million), a 4.5% year-on-year increase. High1 is managed by Kangwon Land, a company owned by the central government, with the South Korean national pension fund among its shareholders. Following his concerns regarding youth gambling, Kim encouraged the regulator to continue “exploring avenues to stimulate local economies.” He requested the body to assist in “enhancing public leisure experiences, attracting international tourists, and generating employment opportunities, all within a sound framework for the gambling industry.” 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 Israeli Air Force (IAF) officer indicted for wagering on military actions at Polymarket has claimed that everyone in the force gambles on similar platforms. The officer made these allegations during his court appearance on Monday, following his indictment in February. He is accused of providing classified information about the timing of Israeli military operations to an accomplice, who then placed bets on Polymarket. In February, Israeli authorities confirmed that several military personnel had been arrested on suspicion of using confidential information to place bets on Polymarket. The Attorney General’s office subsequently decided to press criminal charges against two individuals: the officer now before the court and his civilian accomplice. Beyond asserting that gambling on prediction markets is widespread within the military, the officer’s defense team stated that he has made significant contributions to the security of the state. His lawyers also contend that the investigation was improperly conducted and resulted in security violations. “We are confident that once these facts are presented, the case will conclude very differently from how it began,” said the defense attorneys, Ran Cohen Rochverger and Naor Alon Sosnosky. Nevertheless, a judge denied the officer’s request for release under house arrest, and he remains in custody as the investigation continues. Serious Wrongful Acts Ignored Consequences, Says Judge The prosecution maintains that the officer’s willingness to sell information for financial gain put IAF pilots and military operations at risk. “This is not merely a ‘gambling story’ but a serious account of wrongful acts committed out of a pursuit of excitement and greed for profit, while completely disregarding their consequences and the most basic moral and ethical standards,” stated the presiding judge. According to the court, claims that betting on prediction markets is widespread in the military are irrelevant to this specific case; however, a separate inquiry will be launched to verify those allegations. Following the officer’s arrest, there have been renewed concerns about insider trading involving conflicts in the Middle East. A U.S. soldier was also arrested for using his position to bet on the capture of Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela. Accomplice Named as More Details Emerge Some details regarding the case were disclosed in March, including the alleged Polymarket account used to place the wagers. Last week, further information surfaced, notably identifying the officer’s accomplice as Omer Ziv. The officer’s identity has not been revealed due to potential security risks, according to the court. The pair reportedly met while employed at a gaming technology company. According to The Guardian, Ziv spent eight years working as an affiliate marketing manager in the online gambling industry. Prosecutors assert that Ziv first became interested in the market question—“Will Israel conduct military action against Iran before July?”—on Polymarket back in June of last year. He then brought the opportunity to the attention of the officer, and they allegedly agreed that the officer would share confidential intelligence about impending military actions, while Ziv would use his own funds to place bets across multiple newly created Polymarket accounts. Keep Quiet, ‘So We Don’t Go To Jail’ On June 12, prosecutors claim the officer was briefed on Operation Roaring Lion, an Israeli military strike against Iran, and shared those details with Ziv via WhatsApp. Ziv is accused of passing this information along to others. In a group chat message, he reportedly informed five friends about the attack but warned them to keep quiet “so we don’t go to jail.” While the specifics of the officer’s role in the military and his involvement in the operation remain subject to a court-imposed gag order, he is described as a senior-ranking official. After the June wagers, the duo allegedly reconnected in September to place bets on Israeli strikes targeting Yemen. Then, in January of this year, the officer sent messages to Ziv indicating that tensions were escalating and that strikes on Iran were imminent. Ziv again placed bets on these events at Polymarket, but his account was flagged online. Seven months ago, a possible IDF insider "ricosuave666" predicted the exact day Israel would strike Iran and won $154K.He is now back on Polymarket and started buying a massive position on another Israel strike on Iran by Jan 31. Account:https://t.co/gH1HSdQ16J pic.twitter.com/PQ2UDMsfFC— PredictFolio (@PredictFolio) January 6, 2026 Alarmed by the flagging, Ziv canceled his positions and changed his usernames, prosecutors allege. The pair allegedly deleted WhatsApp messages and erased photos, fearing detection by investigators, according to the indictment. Despite ongoing controversy over markets tied to conflict and military operations, Polymarket continues to promote wagering on wars. In response to high-profile cases of insider trading, U.S. lawmakers have called for stricter regulations for such markets, and several bills have been introduced to explicitly ban trading related to war and death. The Commodity Exchange Act (CEA) already empowers the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to suspend markets connected to war if they are deemed contrary to the public interest. The agency has also launched an investigation into the case involving the U.S. soldier who traded on the capture of Maduro but has not issued any public statements about the Israeli war-related markets. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Gambling Commission plans stronger rules for non-compliant gaming machines and more enforcement against illegal land-based gambling. Good to Know Non-compliant gaming machines must be removed immediately from 29 July 2026. Bingo GGY reached £816 million in 2024/25, around 5% of the UK gambling total. The regulator will receive £26 million over three years to target illegal gambling. The UK Gambling Commission is preparing tougher oversight for gaming machines while keeping close ties with compliant bingo operators. Acting chief executive Sarah Gardner outlined the plan at the Bingo Association annual general meeting on 7 May. She said cooperation with the sector had already helped fix gaps in national gambling data, including bingo participation figures. Gardner said:“We know what we can achieve through our powers, but we know that we can achieve a whole lot more for our objectives by working with those in industry who are willing to work with us.” Bingo Data Improves As Machine Rules Get Tougher The Gambling Survey for Great Britain had drawn questions from some bingo operators over player estimates. After work with the Bingo Association, the Commission added a new question to show more clearly where people play bingo. The updated data showed 3.3% of adults in Great Britain played bingo in 2024. Of that group, 1.2% played in traditional bingo clubs. The Bingo Association had reported 1.0% based on venue admissions. The new question will remain as the sample grows. Gardner also pointed to the social side of bingo, saying GSGB data confirmed “the social nature of bingo” as a key reason people still visit venues.Bingo revenue remains closely tied to machines. In 2024/25, total bingo Gross Gambling Yield reached £816 million, out of £16.8 billion across the wider UK gambling market. Land-based bingo generated £650 million, while remote bingo reached £166 million. Gaming machines produced two-thirds of land-based bingo GGY, with bingo games making up 35%. That split explains the next regulatory step. From 29 July 2026, land-based operators must remove machines at once if the Commission says they lack the right technical operating licence or fail technical standards. Gardner said the aim is to “streamline processes and ensure non-compliant machines are swiftly removed from premises.” The Commission plans to publish its full gaming machines consultation response “this summer.” Illegal land-based gambling will also get more attention. The government has allocated £26 million to the Commission over three years for enforcement work, alongside £25.4 million for gambling harm prevention groups.  Gardner said: “This funding will allow us to invest, arguably for the first time in a serious way, in addressing land-based illegal gambling.” She also said police and other enforcement partners will remain part of the work.The comments came as the industry waits for more decisions tied to the Gambling Act review, Commission fees, and future funding. Gardner also praised outgoing Bingo Association chief executive Miles Baron for 10 years of engagement and welcomed Nicole Garrett, who said she would “continue to build that collaborative relationship.” 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) -   Portsmouth officials marked a significant milestone in the construction of The Landing Hotel, a $65 million development located adjacent to Rivers Casino Portsmouth. Good to Know The Landing Hotel is anticipated to open in early 2027. The eight-story hotel will feature 106 rooms, including 32 suites. The project is projected to generate 200 temporary construction positions and 60 permanent jobs. The steel structure of The Landing Hotel has now reached an eight-story height beside Rivers Casino Portsmouth, providing city leaders with a visible indicator of the ongoing expansion of the casino district. Mayor Shannon Glover reaffirmed during his State of the City address that the hotel remains on schedule for an early 2027 opening. The topping-off ceremony held on Friday involved hoisting a steel beam, which was then secured at the top of the building. Glover remarked: “Folks, as they have consistently done, they underpromised and overperformed. Recall when we opened this facility in 2023? We are currently two years ahead of our original timeline.”Rivers Casino Hotel Expands Its Offerings and Workforce The Landing Hotel will introduce 106 guest rooms to the casino property, with 32 of them designated as suites. The development also includes a lobby bar, two executive boardrooms, and various other guest amenities. Tim Drehkoff, CEO of Rush Street Gaming and Rivers Casino Portsmouth, stated: “Additionally, we will offer a refined lobby bar, two new executive boardrooms, and other premium amenities. We are pleased to collaborate with the award-winning design team Architecture and Interiors throughout the planning process.” S.B. Ballard Construction Company is overseeing the construction. Steve Ballard noted that crews continue to progress ahead of schedule while maintaining a strong safety record. He added:“This is Portsmouth—a town defined by hard work and industrious people. Several hundred workers are on-site daily, and they have maintained excellent safety standards. We are slightly ahead of our planned timeline.” City officials anticipate that the hotel will contribute to local economic growth by creating 200 temporary construction roles and 60 permanent positions once it opens. Brian Donahue, director of economic development for Portsmouth, highlighted the broader significance of the eight-story structure for the city’s skyline: “It has been many decades since an eight-story building was constructed in our city. I am confident that this marks the beginning of many more such developments in Portsmouth.” 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) -   Although Las Vegas Sands currently operates no casinos within Texas, the company is actively recruiting for technology positions in Dallas specifically focused on casino management software. Good to Know Sands has posted at least nine technology vacancies in Dallas centered on casino management systems. Casino gambling remains prohibited in Texas; legalization would necessitate legislative backing followed by voter approval. The company holds approximately 1,000 acres of land in the vicinity of the former Texas Stadium location in Irving. Las Vegas Sands is establishing a technology hub in Dallas dedicated to casino software, despite the fact that casino gambling is still not permitted in Texas. Over the past month, the company's career portal featured at least nine Dallas-based openings. These positions include data engineers, application architects, lead software engineers, technology support specialists, and a Product Owner role, with the latter offering a salary range between $95,000 and $134,000. One job description mentioned working on a casino management system “from inception through delivery,” while another noted the “design and implementation of our casino management system (CMS) from inception to launch.”Dallas Tech Jobs Add Weight To Texas Casino Plans Casino management systems serve as the operational backbone of a casino floor, managing tasks such as tracking player loyalty programs, monitoring slot and table game data, handling accounting and regulatory reporting, and integrating with food, beverage, and hotel systems. Sands intends to utilize the software developed in Dallas for its international properties, including the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore and its various Macau locations, such as the Parisian Macao, the Venetian Macao, the Londoner Macao, and the Four Seasons Hotel Macao. Ron Reese, Senior Vice President of Global Communications at Sands, stated: “We chose the Dallas-Fort Worth area due to its high concentration of tech talent, strong infrastructure, and a vibrant innovation ecosystem bolstered by top-tier universities. The region’s North American connectivity, business-friendly environment, and cost-effective operations support sustainable growth and effective partner collaboration.”A company spokesperson clarified to local media that Sands does not have any active projects in Dallas at this time. These two perspectives are not mutually exclusive; a Dallas-based software center can support global operations while simultaneously strengthening the company's case for job creation should the push for casino legalization in the state legislature resume. This strategy is supported by other initiatives. Sands acquired roughly 1,000 acres near the former Texas Stadium site in Irving between 2022 and 2023. Furthermore, as of 2026, the company employs over 80 registered lobbyists in Texas, spent an estimated $5 million to $10 million on lobbying during the 2025 legislative session, and established the Texas Sands PAC in 2022, which has reportedly pledged $9 million through the 2026 election cycle. Texas A Hard Target Legalizing casinos in Texas remains a significant challenge. It requires a constitutional amendment that must pass both legislative chambers with a two-thirds majority before receiving statewide voter approval. In 2023, a casino-related amendment fell eight votes short of the required threshold in the House. While Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has noted a lack of sufficient support among Senate Republicans, Gov. Greg Abbott has expressed a greater willingness to consider destination resort casinos. The Dallas software office remains a viable investment for Sands regardless of whether Texas laws change. However, should legalization occur, having a local team already experienced in building the company's casino systems could significantly accelerate the transition from regulatory approval to operational status in Irving. 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) -   PAGCOR has imposed restrictions on cash rebates and cash-back offers provided by online gaming operators as the regulator seeks to reduce aggressive promotional practices. Good to Know Cash rebates are now limited to a maximum of 1.5% of player turnover or deposits across several online gaming categories. Cash back may be offered up to 15% for all e-games, calculated based on player net losses. PAGCOR stated that these measures aim to prevent “destructive competition” among licensed platforms. The Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp (PAGCOR) has implemented new caps on online gaming incentives, with the regulations taking effect immediately under a directive issued on 7 May. The regulator noted that licensed platforms have been fiercely competing for player retention through extensive promotions and reward schemes. According to PAGCOR, matching offers have frequently reached 100% or higher, surpassing typical market standards. PAGCOR emphasized that the cap is designed to stop a “race to the bottom” that could undermine industry integrity.Online Gaming Incentives Face New Limits Under the updated rules, cash rebates are restricted to no more than 1.5% of player turnover or deposits for slots, e-bingo, numeric games, and sports betting. Operators may also provide up to 15% cash back for all e-games, based on players’ net losses. PAGCOR has also revised how operators must account for these incentives. Cash rebates and cash-back offers can no longer be classified as operator losses. Instead, they must be recorded as expenses linked to gaming operations. The directive aligns with broader efforts to tighten oversight of Philippine iGaming. In April, PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco reported that online gaming accounted for over half of total gaming revenue in 2025, surpassing licensed casinos as the primary source of gross gaming revenue (GGR). PAGCOR has already mandated the removal of gambling advertisements from billboards and public transit. It also requires the Ads Standards Council to review and approve gambling promotions before they are published on social media and other digital platforms.Player verification procedures have also been strengthened. Users are now required to submit valid government-issued identification and real-time selfies before making deposits, as PAGCOR aims to prevent individuals from bypassing identity checks. Meanwhile, the regulator has advocated for the reinstatement of e-wallet funding for gambling transactions. In August, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), the country’s central bank, instructed e-wallets to remove in-app links directing users to gambling sites. 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) -   Century Casinos reported higher first-quarter revenue, stronger operating earnings, and a smaller net loss as North American properties delivered better results. Good to Know Net operating revenue rose 5% to $137.2 million in Q1 2026. Adjusted EBITDAR increased 24% to $24.9 million. Net loss narrowed to $16.5 million from $20.6 million a year earlier. Century Casinos started 2026 with its highest first-quarter net operating revenue ever recorded, supported by improvements in both the US and Canada. In the three months ending March 31, the Nasdaq-listed casino operator generated $137.2 million in net operating revenue, up from $130.4 million in Q1 2025. Operating income surged 65% to $11.8 million. The net loss attributable to Century Casinos shareholders decreased to $16.5 million, compared with $20.6 million in the previous year. Both basic and diluted loss per share were $0.58, down from $0.67.North America Drives Q1 Growth Adjusted EBITDAR grew 24% to $24.9 million, with every North American segment showing year-over-year increases. The US Midwest remained the top revenue segment at $41.8 million, up 5%. The US East also expanded 5% to $38.9 million, while the US West rose 4% to $17.1 million. Canada experienced the strongest revenue growth, climbing 11% to $18.3 million. Poland saw a 2% increase to $21.1 million. Erwin Haitzmann and Peter Hoetzinger, Co-Chief Executive Officers of Century Casinos, stated: "The first quarter of 2026 set a new record for net operating revenue in any first quarter in the company’s history, and all North American properties surpassed the first quarter of 2025 in both net operating revenue and Adjusted EBITDAR.“This growth was fueled by strong play from our high-value and core customer segments. We are especially encouraged by the performance at the Nugget, which achieved a 93% rise in Adjusted EBITDAR compared to the first quarter of 2025." Operating profits also improved across key regions. The US Midwest grew 23% to $11.8 million, Canada increased 27% to $4.3 million, and the US East reached $1.5 million, up from $435,000. The US West reduced its operating loss to $2 million from $2.7 million. Adjusted EBITDAR reached $15.6 million in the US Midwest, $5.4 million in the US East, $1.4 million in the US West, and $5.5 million in Canada. Poland declined 8% to $505,000 and posted an operating loss of $177,000. At the end of the quarter, Century Casinos held $60 million in cash and cash equivalents, down from $68.9 million at December 31, 2025. Total outstanding debt stood at $336.7 million, slightly lower than $337.7 million on December 31. The company also disclosed a $712.0 million long-term financing obligation linked to its master lease agreement with subsidiaries of VICI Properties. Its Consolidated First Lien Net Leverage Ratio was above 5.50 to 1.00 at the end of March, although no revolving loans, swingline loans, or letters of credit were drawn under the Goldman Sachs Bank USA credit facility. 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) -   Codere Online kicked off 2026 with a record-breaking quarterly net gaming revenue and a return to profitability, driven by improved performance in Spain and Mexico. Key Highlights Net gaming revenue reached €64.4 million, marking a 13% increase compared to the same period last year. Adjusted EBITDA rose to €6.0 million, up €4.2 million from Q1 2025. Net income climbed to €7.0 million, reversing a €0.7 million loss recorded one year earlier. Codere Online maintained its full-year 2026 guidance following its strongest first quarter on record. In the three months ended March 31, 2026, total revenue amounted to €60.3 million, or $71.1 million. Net gaming revenue increased to €64.4 million, or $75.9 million, representing a 13% rise from Q1 2025. Spain And Mexico Boost Codere Online’s Financial Results Mexico continued to be the top contributor. Revenue stood at €30.4 million, or $35.8 million, while net gaming revenue grew by 13% to €34.6 million, or $40.8 million. The company also reported a 20% increase in active customers within the market.Spain saw even stronger growth. Both revenue and net gaming revenue reached €25.5 million, or $30.1 million, reflecting a 16% increase from the previous year. Codere Online noted that this performance extended the positive momentum observed during the latter half of 2025. CEO Aviv Sher commented: “We had an exceptionally strong start to 2026, delivering a record quarterly net gaming revenue of €64.4 million (US$75.9 million), up 13% year-on-year. In Spain, results accelerated significantly, with net gaming revenue growing 16%, underscoring the continuation and intensification of favorable trends we began noticing in the second half of 2025, especially in the fourth quarter. In Mexico, double-digit growth persisted thanks to a 20% rise in active customer numbers.” Profitability also strengthened. Adjusted EBITDA totaled €6.0 million, or $7.1 million, an increase of €4.2 million from the prior year. Net income reached €7.0 million, or $8.2 million, compared to a €0.7 million loss in Q1 2025.Chief Financial Officer Marcus Arildsson described the quarter as “a clear step forward in profitability,” highlighting improved earnings and a robust cash position. Codere Online continues to forecast 2026 net gaming revenue between €235 million and €245 million, or $276.9 million to $288.8 million. Its adjusted EBITDA outlook remains unchanged at €15 million to €20 million, or $17.7 million to $23.6 million. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Dutch government is considering introducing stricter gambling advertising regulations, potentially including a complete ban, after officials concluded that existing measures still fail to adequately protect vulnerable individuals. Key Points State Secretary Claudia van Bruggen stated that Cruks cannot fully prevent exposure to gambling advertisements. The Netherlands already prohibits untargeted gambling ads and various forms of sponsorship. Licensed operators caution that an outright advertising ban could make legal gambling less visible than illegal offshore sites. The Netherlands currently enforces some of the most rigorous gambling advertising restrictions in Europe, yet policymakers continue to assess whether further action is necessary. State Secretary Claudia van Bruggen informed parliament that the Cruks self-exclusion system has significant limitations. Licensed operators are unable to use Cruks to screen every individual before distributing promotional content, she explained. Additionally, Cruks only applies to the regulated gambling sector, meaning excluded users may still encounter advertisements for offshore gambling platforms or access unregulated websites. Van Bruggen remarked: “The government is committed to tightening gambling advertising rules as outlined in the coalition agreement, with a particular focus on safeguarding vulnerable populations. However, tools like Cruks remain restricted to the licensed market. They do not block access to unauthorized providers or completely eliminate exposure to gambling promotions.” Cruks Limitations Fuel Debate Over Ad Ban Dutch gambling advertising regulations have progressively tightened since the launch of the online gambling market in 2021. In July 2023, the government prohibited untargeted gambling ads across television, radio, newspapers, billboards, and public spaces. By July 2024, gambling companies lost their rights to sponsor events and programmes. A year later, further restrictions eliminated gambling sponsorships linked to sports teams, team jerseys, competitions, and venues. Targeted advertising remains permissible under current law, but operators must comply with strict audience profiling and exposure limitations. The government is now evaluating whether these safeguards are sufficient. Another challenge involves illegal gambling. While Dutch authorities maintain that cracking down on unlicensed operators remains a priority, they acknowledge the difficulty of preventing domestic access to foreign gambling sites. This creates a complex policy dilemma: reducing gambling promotion within the country while ensuring licensed operators remain sufficiently visible to divert players from illegal alternatives. Licensed operators have voiced opposition to a full advertising ban. Björn Fuchs, chairman of VNLOK, argued in February that Dutch gambling policy relies on consumers being able to locate legal options. He stated: “Dutch gambling policy intentionally centers on an open, regulated market with stringent requirements regarding duty of care, advertising, and oversight. This framework only functions effectively if the legal and safe offering remains accessible and visible to players. An absolute ban on advertising undermines this fundamental principle.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Indonesian police have carried out one of the largest online gambling busts in the nation following a raid on a West Jakarta building linked to dozens of betting websites. Good to Know Law enforcement arrested 321 foreign nationals during a raid near Jakarta’s Chinatown district. Investigators connected the raided location to more than 75 distinct online gambling platforms. Authorities confirmed many suspects also face accusations related to immigration violations and money laundering. Indonesia has ramped up its crackdown on foreign-operated digital crime after police raided a commercial building in West Jakarta and detained 321 foreign nationals tied to a suspected online gambling network. According to allegations, the operation catered to overseas bettors through at least 75 websites. Police stated the group had operated from the site for roughly two months, with separate teams managing customer service, telemarketing, and finance work. Jakarta Raid Indicates a Broader Regional Shift The detainees include 228 Vietnamese nationals and 57 Chinese nationals, with the remainder coming from Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, and Cambodia. As of Saturday, police had formally named 275 detainees as suspects, while questioning for the remaining group is still ongoing.Brigadier General Wira Satya Triputra, director of general crimes at the Indonesian National Police, said officers caught the group mid-operation during the raid. He said: “We apprehended the suspects in the act while they were conducting activities connected to online gambling.” Police seized cash in multiple currencies, alongside safes, laptops, mobile phones, passports, and other related equipment. Investigators said digital records and marketing files show the betting sites mainly targeted users located outside of Indonesia. “We uncovered suspected organized gambling activities involving foreign nationals from a range of countries,” Triputra said.Authorities also uncovered multiple visa violations among the group. Police said most suspects entered Indonesia on short-term visitor visas before overstaying their permits to work for the network. Convictions on current charges can carry prison sentences of up to nine years and fines of up to 2 billion rupiah, equal to roughly $116,000. Untung Widyatmoko, secretary of Indonesia’s Interpol bureau, said increased enforcement in nearby countries has already pushed some criminal operators to relocate to Indonesia. He said: “After enforcement crackdowns in Cambodia, we began to see a shift of operations toward Indonesia, and this was a development we anticipated.” Online gambling remains illegal in Indonesia, the world’s most populous Muslim-majority nation. The Asian Racing Federation estimates the total annual value of illegal betting in Asia hits $425 billion. This Jakarta raid follows a string of other foreign-linked cybercrime arrests across Indonesia. Authorities recently detained around 210 foreign nationals in Batam over suspected online investment fraud, 44 Japanese and Chinese nationals in Surabaya over an alleged scam operation, 16 suspects in Sukabumi, and 26 alleged online scammers in Bali who were later deported. 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) -   Tuyo has gained attention with a crypto debit card feature that randomly waives purchases, though the company does not disclose the odds. Good to Know Tuyo launched Buy Now, Pay Maybe on May 7. The company said it waived more than 1,700 purchases the day after launch. Tuyo says the feature is not a sweepstakes, lottery, contest, or game of chance. A crypto neobank has discovered a cost-effective way to make customer acquisition resemble a game. Tuyo went viral after introducing Buy Now, Pay Maybe, a debit card feature allowing users to swipe normally and later discover whether the company has decided not to charge the purchase. Tuyo controls which transactions are waived, and the odds remain undisclosed. The company claims an algorithm “grants free purchases to maximize customer happiness.” It also maintains that the feature does not constitute a sweepstakes, lottery, contest, or game of chance.Random Free Purchases Leverage Gambling Psychology One day after its May 7 launch, Tuyo reported waiving charges on over 1,700 purchases. Users shared posts on X detailing free meals, coffees, and small purchases, with most examples falling between $5 and $100. This approach makes the product appear less like genuine generosity and more like marketing disguised as a debit card. Rather than spending on ads for user acquisition, Tuyo can cover several small purchases. The expense may be comparable to a standard acquisition campaign, yet user reactions tend to be stronger because random rewards are more memorable. The concept is not new—scratch card discounts employed the same principle years ago. Customers would commit to a purchase only to learn later whether they received 10%, 30%, 50%, or 90% off. The suspense stemmed from paying upfront before knowing the outcome. Tuyo applies this structure but intensifies it. The potential reward is a full refund, and the mechanism integrates seamlessly into everyday spending. A coffee, lunch, or transit fare can feel like another opportunity.This is why Buy Now, Pay Maybe warrants scrutiny from gambling and financial regulators. While Tuyo may avoid explicit gambling terminology, the product still utilizes variable-reward design—the same psychological trigger that keeps people chasing uncertain outcomes. Is This Product Ethically Questionable? The offering has already drawn criticism. Finance lawyer Ariel Givner argued on X that the setup raises greater concerns than a gambling credit card because Tuyo retains complete discretion over which purchases become “pay maybe,” i.e., free for the user. “This isn’t a gambling credit card. It’s worse. It’s a debit card where Tuyo has SOLE DISCRETION over the purchases that are “pay maybe” aka free for the user. Zero odds. Zero stats. Slot machines are more predictable. This one’s going to result in a whole lot of overdraft fees for Tuyo because inevitably people will get addicted and spend more than they should “because this one might be free!” Definitely a way to build smart spending habits!” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   A New Jersey sports betting bill has cleared its first committee step, bringing account limiting rules back into focus for operators and bettors. Good to Know A4002 passed the Assembly Tourism, Gaming, and the Arts Committee by a 7-0 vote. Sportsbooks would need to notify users when an account gets limited and explain why. The New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement would set standards for reviews and operator rules. New Jersey lawmakers are considering one of the most frequent complaints from sports betting customers: account limits imposed with little or no explanation. A4002, introduced in February by Democrat Assemblymen Dan Hutchison, Cody Miller, and Michael Venezia, advanced last week after the Assembly Tourism, Gaming, and the Arts Committee approved it unanimously, 7-0. The bill is now eligible to be placed on the Assembly calendar, where it could receive a floor reading and vote. Sportsbooks Would Need To Explain Account Restrictions The bill would require New Jersey sports betting operators to establish account policies covering play time limits, maximum wager amounts, and deposit or withdrawal restrictions.Importantly for bettors, operators would be required to inform users when restrictions are applied to their accounts and provide a clear reason for those limitations. The bill states: “Any account that has been limited shall be reviewed at periodic intervals, in accordance with standards to be established by the division, to determine whether the account should remain limited or whether the limitations should be removed,” according to the bill. This review process would be governed by standards set by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE). The DGE would also gain authority to develop rules and regulations related to the new measures. For New Jersey sports betting customers, this change would address a longstanding frustration. Many bettors report that sportsbooks impose reduced wager sizes or restrict access to certain markets without offering a clear justification. A4002 would not prohibit account limiting, but it would mandate greater transparency from operators.If enacted, the bill would take effect immediately upon approval by the legislature and signing into 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) -   Pennsylvania legislators have proposed HB 2497, legislation mandating that prediction market platforms comply with state gaming regulations prior to offering services to state residents. Key Highlights Under HB 2497, prediction market operators must obtain a license from the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. The licensing fee involves a $1 million initial payment and a $1 million fee for every yearly renewal. This legislation establishes a minimum age of 21 and imposes a 20% tax on gross revenues. Several Democratic legislators in Pennsylvania are seeking to place prediction markets under a state-controlled regulatory framework, despite the fact that operators are currently subject to oversight by the federal Commodity Futures Trading Commission. Introduced on Friday, House Bill 2497 has been referred to the Gaming Oversight Committee. The legislation asserts that a distinct state framework is required due to the CFTC’s “noninterference approach” regarding wagering on event outcomes. The text of the bill reads:“A state-level regulatory framework for event outcome prediction wagering is necessary, given the Commodity Futures Trading Commission's adoption of a noninterference approach, in order to regulate prediction markets.” Pennsylvania Seeks Licensing, Taxation, and Contract Restrictions Under HB 2497, prediction market operators would be permitted to serve clients in Pennsylvania, provided they first secure a license from the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. Substantial Licensing Costs Securing this license would be a costly endeavor. Operators must pay $1 million for market entry, followed by an annual renewal fee of $1 million. Prediction market operators that continue to serve users without authorization could be subject to fines reaching $25,000.Additional taxation would also apply. Licensed operators are required to remit 20% of their gross revenue, along with a 2% local share assessment. Funds generated from the local share are intended to support grants for public interest initiatives. The legislation also addresses market conduct. It prohibits insider trading within prediction markets and grants state gambling regulators the authority to restrict event contracts associated with sensitive subjects. Contracts related to elections may be limited if regulators determine that wagering on event outcomes could influence election results. Furthermore, Pennsylvania would establish the legal age for participating in prediction market trading at 21, aligning it with the state's existing age requirement for sports betting. Enforcement presents a significant challenge. Since prediction market firms operate under federal regulations, many may be reluctant to pay state gaming taxes or submit to state oversight. Consequently, HB 2497 requires legislative backing to advance into 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) -   Michigan regulators have introduced a new youth gambling prevention campaign targeting schools, families, coaches, and community groups statewide. Good to Know The Michigan Gaming Control Board launched Don’t Bet on Your Future to warn young people about underage gambling risks. Youth booster programs can receive up to $4,000 for approved anti-gambling advocacy. A new grant program will support gambling education in schools, colleges, and local organizations. The Michigan Gaming Control Board is expanding its responsible gambling outreach into youth sports, classrooms, and local communities through the Don’t Bet on Your Future initiative, a statewide effort focused on preventing underage gambling. This campaign builds upon the earlier Don’t Regret the Bet program, which addressed responsible gambling for adults. In contrast, Don’t Bet on Your Future specifically targets children and teenagers who are increasingly exposed to sports betting, online casino platforms, and broader gambling advertisements. In Michigan, online sports betting and online casino gaming are permitted only for individuals aged 21 or older. Certain land-based tribal casinos allow entry at age 18 or older, but the MGCB maintains that gambling must be strictly reserved for adults.MGCB Enhances Youth Gambling Prevention With Funding And TV Ads A new television advertisement is now part of the campaign. The commercial features a teenager attempting to place a bet on a phone, only to be confronted by messages discouraging such behavior, ultimately ending with the Don’t Bet on Your Future slogan. The MGCB is also providing financial support for local prevention efforts. Youth booster programs may apply for up to $4,000 to promote MGCB-approved messages about the dangers of underage gambling. These messages can be shared via social media, school newsletters, scoreboards, and event programs. Henry Williams, executive director of the MGCB, linked the campaign to growing concerns about gambling exposure among young people. He stated: “According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, nearly two-thirds of American adults report having gambled before the age of 21 – and young people in Michigan are no exception. Don’t Bet on Your Future aims to create a statewide network of education and prevention involving schools, coaches, parents, and neighborhoods.We are dedicated to ensuring the next generation understands the serious risks of gambling before they ever make their first bet.” Additional funding will be available through the Gambling Education and Prevent Grant Program. Schools, colleges, and community organizations can submit applications before the upcoming school year. Approved initiatives will receive grants to develop educational content covering Michigan gambling laws, problem gambling, mental health impacts, financial harm, and available support resources. 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 2026 PGA Championship will be held at Aronimink Golf Course, located outside Philadelphia, starting on Thursday, and we have the latest odds, predictions, and picks for you. We’ll highlight the top contenders among favorites, sleeper picks, and longshots to watch this week. One of our selected players delivered a winning bet two weeks ago at the Cadillac Championship, which is one of the PGA Tour’s eight signature events. Related: PGA Championship Betting Guide: How to Bet Golf Futures, Props, Matchups & More PGA Championship Odds at DraftKings Here are the current odds for the top players to win the PGA Championship at DraftKings as of publication: Scottie Scheffler +380 Rory McIlroy +900 Jon Rahm +1375 Cameron Young +1600 Bryson DeChambeau +1850 Xander Schauffele +1950 Ludvig Aberg +1950 Matt Fitzpatrick +2250 Tommy Fleetwood +2600 Brooks Koepka +3600 Collin Morikawa +3800 Justin Rose +4600 Justin Thomas +4800 Russell Henley +4900 Patrick Cantlay +5200 Si Woo Kim +5700 Viktor Hovland +5800 Tyrrell Hatton +5800 Jordan Spieth +6200 Min Woo Lee +6300 Robert MacIntyre +6500 Sam Burns +6700 Adam Scott +6900 Rickie Fowler +7000 Nicolai Hojgaard +7000 Chris Gotterup +7400 Patrick Reed +8000 Hideki Matsuyama +8000 Kurt Kitayama +8600 J.J. Spaun +9200 Shane Lowry +9600 Maverick McNealy +9800 Akshay Bhatia +10000 Joaquin Niemann +10000 Jake Knapp +10000 Best Bet on Favorite to Win PGA Championship Cameron Young (+1600) Cameron Young is having his best season yet on the PGA Tour. He came through for us at the Cadillac Championship, where he won at +1275 odds. Young has secured six top-10 finishes in his last seven events and hasn’t finished outside the top 25 during that stretch. He claimed the most significant victory of his career at The Players Championship in March. Yesterday, he placed T-10 at the Truist Championship in Charlotte. Strong performances in key tour rankings reflect his impressive recent form: SG: Total (2nd) Scrambling (2nd) SG: Tee-to-Green (6th) SG: Off-the-Tee (6th) With odds of +1600, you’re getting solid value for backing the tour’s hottest player. Best Bet on Sleeper to Win PGA Championship J.J. Spaun (+9400) You’re receiving legitimate longshot odds with our sleeper pick this week. J.J. Spaun demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest level by winning last year’s U.S. Open. His backers enjoyed a substantial payout when he went off at +15000 (or 150-1) odds. Spaun started the season slowly but is now gaining momentum at the perfect time as the majors approach. He earned his most recent victory at the Valero Texas Open in early April. Spaun followed up with a T-5 finish at last week’s Truist Championship after placing T-14 at the Cadillac Championship—both signature events. These odds are simply too generous to pass up. Best Bet on Longshot to Win PGA Championship Alex Fitzpatrick (+155) This player has shown exceptional form in recent weeks. Alex Fitzpatrick has proven he belongs on the PGA Tour alongside his more recognized brother, Matt. The pair recently won the Zurich Classic two weeks ago, marking Alex’s first PGA Tour victory. Prior to that, he captured his first-ever DP World Tour title at the Indian Open. In his last two starts, Alex finished ninth at last week’s Cadillac Championship at Doral and fourth yesterday at the Truist Championship at Quail Hollow in Charlotte. He led by one stroke heading into the final round but fell short due to struggles with his putting. Nevertheless, his near-victory at a course known for hosting major championships positions him well for this week’s PGA 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) -   Allegations regarding casino visits are intensifying political friction as the South Korean elections approach next month. With local elections scheduled for June 3, primary contenders for the superintendency of Gwangju and South Jeolla Province are engaged in a heated war of words, according to the South Korean publication Maeil Kyungjae. The dispute surfaced during an April 17 televised debate involving incumbent superintendent Kim Dae-jung and his primary opponents. During the broadcast, rival Go Du-gap claimed that Kim had been spotted “hanging around a gambling establishment.” Subsequently, reports began appearing in South Korean media suggesting that Kim had visited a casino while on an international business trip. Toward the end of that month, Kim sought to address the situation. He acknowledged visiting a casino but refuted accusations that he had participated in any gambling. “I did enter a casino located within my hotel […] while on an overseas business trip, but I did not gamble. […] I apologize for causing public concern through behavior that fell short of expectations. I will exercise greater caution in my future conduct,” he stated. Although Go has since withdrawn from the race, he appeared alongside fellow preliminary candidate Lee Jeong-seon at a joint press conference on May 7, as reported by the news outlet News1. At the conference, Lee challenged Kim to pledge his “immediate resignation” from the race should “any evidence of his gambling be verified.” Officials count ballot papers during a South Korean election. (Image: Choi Gwang-mo [CC BY-SA 4.0]) South Korean Elections: Gambling Controversies Escalate “The simple fact that [Kim] entered a casino while on an official business trip calls into question his moral standing as an educator,” Lee remarked. “The role of Superintendent of Education requires a superior level of ethical conduct,” he continued, noting that the trip was “financed by taxpayer funds.” Representatives for Kim dismissed the claims as a “smear campaign.” “The location Mr. Kim visited was a facility within the hotel where he was staying for his business trip,” a spokesperson for Kim’s team stated. “Labeling [Mr. Kim] a ‘gambler’ is highly defamatory.” “[Mr. Kim] has already issued an apology regarding this matter,” the representative added. “He feels a profound sense of moral accountability for even a brief visit to a hotel casino during a business trip.” Criminal Record Reports The Kim controversy is not the only gambling-related issue to surface ahead of the June 3 vote. In late April, the nation’s leading newspaper revealed that more than one-third of the nearly 7,000 preliminary candidates for local council positions possess criminal records. The report found that several of these individuals have prior convictions for habitual gambling. One sitting local government official is seeking re-election despite having previously served a three-year prison sentence for securities fraud and habitual gambling. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Authorities in 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.