分類: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) -   Police have arrested 83 people in a raid on a suspected gambling den hidden within a Thai coconut plantation. A specialized operations team conducted the operation at a plantation in Ratchaburi Province, where authorities confiscated cash and various gambling-related equipment, according to local media outlet Thairath. Officials stated that the facility was well-established, as evidenced by vendors present on-site who were selling food and drinks to patrons. Ratchaburi is located near the border with Myanmar. In Southeast Asia, many border regions have become notorious for hosting illegal casinos, gambling dens, and voice phishing call centers. Ratchaburi Province, Thailand. (Image: Piith.hant [CC BY-SA 4.0]) Thai Coconut Farm: Police Raid Kam Thua Ring Authorities confirmed that the operators allowed gamblers to place bets on rounds of kam thua, a popular dice game where participants aim to surpass a designated banker. Police from the Ratchaburi Provincial Internal Security Operations Command and Photharam Police Station explained that they initiated the raid following a tip-off from a member of the public. The informant reported that a group of gamblers had been gathering in a clearing in the center of a plantation within the Photharam District. Additional details revealed that this location had been used as an established gambling den for some time, with meetings typically occurring at night. Although police carried out several prior raids without detecting any gambling activity, they returned to the site on the evening of May 8 and discovered over 100 vehicles parked near the entrance to a makeshift gambling den. Police released bodycam footage of the raid. Detectives noted that suspects panicked upon seeing approaching officers. Some reportedly jumped into water-filled irrigation ditches, while others fled into the darkness. In the bodycam footage released by police, officers can be seen assisting several suspects as they climbed out of trenches filled with chest-high water. Eventually, law enforcement apprehended dozens of suspected patrons and operators. However, they admitted that some individuals managed to evade arrest by remaining concealed in dark areas of the coconut groves throughout the night. Investigators seized numerous pieces of gambling paraphernalia, including a large betting table, betting chips, dice, dice shakers, and notebooks used to record scores. The authorities also confiscated multiple makeshift food and drink stalls operated by vendors. A Remote Location All individuals taken into custody were brought to a multi-purpose building at the Photharam District Office complex for questioning. None of the suspects immediately confessed to operating the gambling den. Authorities have since charged all those arrested with organizing and participating in illegal gambling for financial gain. Detectives disclosed that the gang paid rent to the owner of the coconut plantation. They chose this remote location because it featured only one access point—a large gate—which allowed lookouts to control entry and exit, making the area difficult to approach. Earlier this month, police in Bangkok froze and seized assets held in several bank accounts totaling more than 500 million baht, or approximately $15.3 million. Officials indicated that these funds belonged to a money laundering network that supported a well-known online gambling operation. 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 operator of the Shambala Casino in Kaliningrad, Russia, has announced it has received approval for a major expansion that will feature a new eight-story structure and a luxury hotel. The company, also called Shambala, disclosed the results of an independent expert review on the state register of construction projects, as reported by the Russian media outlet ABN 24. Shambala first revealed its expansion plans in 2022. The upcoming development will mark the casino’s “second phase,” according to the operator. The company also runs a casino under the same name in the Primorye gambling zone in Russia’s Far East. The proposed Kaliningrad project includes an eight-story casino building housing a five-star hotel, a spa, multiple restaurants, a banquet hall, and a fitness center. The total area of the new complex is projected to span 21,000 square meters. The initiative has already secured approval from the Kaliningrad architectural and urban planning council. Late in 2024, officials reported that the current casino draws approximately 700 visitors daily, with 60% coming from Kaliningrad and 1% from abroad. The operator and its investors believe the expanded casino and hotel will significantly increase visitor numbers and revenue, especially from major urban centers such as Moscow. Central Kaliningrad. (Image: Aleksander Kaasik [CC BY-SA 3.0]) Kaliningrad Casino Expansion to Finally Begin? The timing of the review is significant. The Kremlin is currently working to accelerate the growth of its rapidly expanding casino industry. Russia already hosts five designated gambling zones, including the Yantarnaya zone in Kaliningrad. However, President Vladimir Putin recently approved the creation of an additional zone in the Altai Republic. This new development will be constructed and financed by Sberbank, the nation’s largest commercial bank. Shambala Kaliningrad has been advocating for expansion since the launch of Russia’s first gambling zones in 2015. Although initial approval was granted in 2023, the operator chose to revise its original plans to include a design that officials described as drawing inspiration from Encore Las Vegas. Several major construction challenges have also surfaced. Koleso, an investor in the project, stated in 2024 that developers had already needed to replace the soil at the site. “The land has proven to be far from ideal,” he said. “We are essentially building on a swamp.” Despite these obstacles, both investors and the operator remain committed to moving forward with the project. The operators highlighted that the Archproject Group, a firm led by Kaliningrad’s former chief architect Alexander Bashin, participated in the expert review. Gamblers at the Shambala Kaliningrad casino. (Image: Ekaterina Pobotaeva/VK) A Single-Story Casino According to Shambala’s financial reports, the company recorded 2025 revenues of $29 million, a 7% increase from the previous year, despite a 1.5% decline in net profits. Casino revenues at Shambala have also seen recent growth, rising more than 6% year-on-year in 2025. Revenue growth is evident across most of Russia’s gambling zones. Last year, Shambala’s Kaliningrad competitor, the Sobranie Casino, reported a 13.4% increase in visitors, reaching 415,000. The zone also features the Magic Crystal slot machine hall. Currently, facilities at Shambala Kaliningrad’s single-story casino remain limited, offering few lodging options and restricted dining choices. An event at the Shambala Kaliningrad casino. (Image: Ekaterina Pobotaeva/VK) “At the moment, we only have a small boutique hotel,” said Koleso CEO Nikita Smolentsev. “Currently, gamblers are choosing between Minsk and Sochi. With the launch of the new phase and the larger hotel, I believe people will begin choosing Kaliningrad. The Kaliningrad region is actually a highly promising market.” The Kremlin’s casino expansion strategy may soon extend beyond physical venues. Gaming authorities have expressed support for the Ministry of Finance’s proposal to legalize online casinos and impose an annual tax rate of 30%. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Bragg Gaming Group has reached an agreement to purchase Drayton International through a share-based transaction designed to incorporate game studios, technology platforms, and entry into the US advance deposit wagering sector. Key Details To acquire 100% of Drayton International, Bragg will issue 4.5 million common shares priced at $2.00 each. Drayton contributes five gaming studios along with three technology and distribution platforms. Following the deal's closure, Matt Davey is set to become Bragg's non-executive chairman. The iGaming supplier, listed in Toronto, anticipates finalizing the transaction in the third quarter of 2026, pending definitive agreements. On Thursday, Bragg released the term sheet, positioning the acquisition as a move to sharpen its focus on proprietary game content, data, and player experience. Through this deal, Bragg obtains stakes in Boomerang (54.5%), Dream Streak (48.5%), Rise Gaming (54%), Hit Squad (37.5%), and Neotopia (24%). Additionally, Drayton holds ownership or control of Arc Gaming, Vision PlAI, and 3 Shores. ADW Access Expands Bragg's US Footprint This agreement could significantly alter Bragg's trajectory in the US. With traditional online slots legal in only seven states, Bragg noted that Arc Gaming and its exclusive aggregator partnership with the BetMakers tote platform could unlock ADW access in over 30 US states.This would provide Bragg with a substantially larger addressable market in the US, reducing reliance solely on online casino legislation. The company also highlighted its remote games server technology as a means to navigate diverse regulatory landscapes. Bragg Technology Group CEO Matevž Mazij stated: “The acquisition of Drayton represents a highly strategic step forward for Bragg as we continue to expand our global footprint and invest in proprietary IP and technology.” He further noted that the “transaction will mark our first entry into the emerging ADW space.”This acquisition follows a cost restructuring initiative at Bragg. As part of a broader restructuring plan, the company reduced its global workforce by approximately 12%. Bragg indicated that the plan would incur costs of roughly €1 million, or $1.2 million, in Q1 2026, while aiming to deliver total savings of €4.5 million alongside other modifications. Matt Davey adds significant depth to the transaction. He founded and chaired Tekkorp Capital, established NYX Gaming prior to its sale to Scientific Games for approximately $631 million, and currently serves as President of BetMakers. Discussions regarding a Tabcorp acquisition of BetMakers concluded in February. Davey privately purchased one million Bragg shares earlier in 2026 and is expected to hold around 10% of Bragg once the acquisition concludes. He remarked: “Bragg has built a strong foundation as a global B2B iGaming supplier and its planned acquisition of Drayton adds a highly complementary set of assets across games, technology and distribution that accelerate its new push to focus on being a data-rich, content-first, user experience-obsessed organisation.” Current Bragg chair Holly Gagnon endorsed the change in leadership, stating: “Matt is a gaming industry luminary. I am confident that I will be passing the chair’s torch into the right hands.” 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 Philippine gaming sector experienced a decrease in first-quarter revenue for 2026, with underperformance in e-gaming contributing to the overall decline, according to the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. Key Figures Philippine gaming Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) amounted to PHP87.60 billion, equivalent to $1.42 billion, in the first quarter of 2026. This total represents a 15.9% decrease compared to the same period in the previous year. Revenue from e-gaming saw a significant drop of 22.4%, reaching PHP39.90 billion. Commercial casinos continued to be the primary source of first-quarter gross gaming revenue. Licensed private-sector casinos generated PHP44.52 billion, a year-over-year decrease of 9.7%, and accounted for approximately 50.8% of the total GGR. E-gaming followed closely in revenue generation, but its steeper decline impacted the market's overall performance. Pagcor reported that this segment generated PHP39.90 billion between January and March, making up about 45.6% of the total GGR. This category encompasses e-bingo, e-games, bingo grantees, and both onsite and off-site poker, as defined by Pagcor. E Gaming Weakness Affects Q1 Totals Pagcor-operated Casino Filipino establishments contributed PHP3.17 billion in GGR during the three months ending March 31. This figure was 8.1% lower than the previous year and constituted 3.6% of the total market revenue.Pagcor chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco attributed the first-quarter downturn to broader economic challenges, reiterating a sentiment he expressed in April. He stated: “We attribute the first-quarter dip to several factors, including softer discretionary spending amid geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, and rising inflationary pressures.” Despite the current dip, Tengco highlighted ongoing investments across the industry, including integrated resorts, digital advancements, and responsible gaming initiatives. He also expressed optimism that a more stable economic environment could lead to a rebound in demand: “We remain hopeful that once the geopolitical tensions stabilise, consumer confidence and discretionary spending will also gradually recover, which should help support improved industry performance.”The decline in the first quarter follows a robust performance for Philippine gaming throughout 2025. The full-year GGR reached PHP396.14 billion, marking a 6.4% increase from 2024. Growth in electronic and online gaming segments compensated for reduced earnings from land-based casinos, with the electronic and online segment generating PHP201.12 billion and becoming the leading revenue contributor. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   MGM National Harbor is facing a federal lawsuit after server Tajia Mackyeon said casino managers took a $76,000 baccarat tip that a player had handed to her during an April 13 shift. Good to Know Tajia Mackyeon says a high-stakes baccarat player gave her $76,000 in chips. The lawsuit says casino managers took the chips and returned the money to the player. Claims include labor law violations, conversion theft, conspiracy, and emotional distress. The case centers on who controlled the chips once the baccarat player handed them to Mackyeon. Her lawsuit argues that the tip became her property, and that MGM National Harbor management unlawfully took it away. Conversion theft forms one core claim in the filing. In plain terms, Mackyeon accuses casino staff of taking control of property that did not belong to them. She also alleges violations of federal and Maryland labor law, tortious interference with economic advantage, conspiracy, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. Tip Dispute Raises Questions Over Casino Policy Mackyeon had served the baccarat player for several hours before the alleged tip. FindLaw reported:“Around 2 a.m., he put chips worth $76,000 in Mackyeon’s hands.” The report said Mackyeon asked the player three times if he was sure. He confirmed the tip each time, then returned to the tables and kept gambling. The lawsuit says management later relied on casino policy tied to player impairment. MGM policy requires staff to act when a gambler appears impaired while gambling, according to the complaint. Mackyeon argues that rule did not apply because the player “was not in any apparent state of confusion or impairment” when he gave her the chips. Her attorney framed the decision as unequal treatment. If the same player “had placed a $76,000 roulette bet on ‘red,’ and lost, [the casino] would not have given it back.”Mackyeon said her manager and a table games manager quickly took possession of the chips. She claims she complied because she “believed that if she did not comply, she would be forced to do so.” Later, she learned MGM National Harbor had returned the funds to the baccarat player. The amount also adds weight to the dispute. According to the lawsuit, the $76,000 tip would have been more than five times her normal yearly pay. Some casino operators use tipping pools that split gratuities among servers, bartenders, and barbacks. The lawsuit, however, does not point to a tip-pooling rule at MGM National Harbor that would explain the handling of the chips. MGM has dealt with other unusual casino litigation recently. In March, a Nevada federal judge allowed a separate case against the company to continue. That lawsuit involves a high-limit blackjack player who alleged someone spiked his drink with ketamine at MGM Grand in Las Vegas in December 2021. 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) -   Ron Baron, founder and CEO of Baron Capital, suggests that SpaceX has the potential for substantial returns following a future public offering, attributing this prospect primarily to Elon Musk and emerging space-related business ventures. Good to Know Baron indicated that SpaceX submitted a filing for an initial public offering in April. Ron Baron estimated the IPO valuation might be in the range of $1.5 trillion to $1.75 trillion. Baron projects that SpaceX's value could escalate to $10 trillion, $20 trillion, or potentially $30 trillion within a decade to 15 years. Baron perceives SpaceX as transcending a mere rocket enterprise. He believes that reusable spacecraft, Starlink, demands for artificial intelligence, and potential space-based data centers could collectively contribute to a significantly higher valuation. He stated: “Therefore, when it goes public, I'm uncertain if the valuation will be $1.5 trillion or $1.75 trillion, or perhaps slightly higher. Regardless of its initial public valuation, I anticipate that the company will be valued at $10 trillion, $20 trillion, or $30 trillion over the subsequent 10 to 15 years. And my estimate might even be quite conservative; it could be significantly higher than that.” Elon Musk And Reusable Rockets Baron largely attributed SpaceX's growth potential to Elon Musk. He noted that Musk revolutionized the economics of the space industry by championing reusable rockets, a concept other companies had no incentive to pursue as it would diminish the need for new hardware :“What truly empowered this company? It's him [Elon Musk]. He conceived the notion of launching and reusing a rocket, something unprecedented. No other rocket company showed interest in this, as it would inevitably reduce the demand for new rockets. Consequently, no one wished to undertake this. “And it was consistently deemed impossible. They claimed it was impossible because no one had attempted it, and even when attempts were made, no one succeeded. This innovation is what made everything possible, including Starlink.” The Falcon 9 provided SpaceX with a reusable rocket platform, while Starlink introduced a satellite internet service for both consumers and businesses. Baron now envisions an additional potential development: space-based data centers. Terrestrial data centers require significant power and water resources. Baron suggested that space could present an alternative cost model, utilizing sunlight for energy and radiators for cooling. He commented:“Once that was established, and with the Falcon 9 [reusable spacecraft] now available… “…we then realized there's a demand for space data centers, as opposed to operating data centers on our planet where it's exceedingly challenging… …with water scarcity and electricity issues. In space, you don't require cooling, primarily, provided you have massive radiators. “And then electricity, which represents a substantial expense, is also unnecessary because you're harnessing the sun. Essentially, you gain access to free electricity and free cooling once you are in space.” 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) -   Hackers are deploying TCLBanker, a Windows trojan linked to compromised Microsoft installation packages, to infiltrate banking, fintech, and cryptocurrency platforms. Key Insights TCLBanker tracks access to 59 specific financial services. The malware can propagate via WhatsApp and Microsoft Outlook. Fake overlay interfaces capture login credentials, PINs, phone numbers, and other sensitive information. Discovered by Elastic Security Labs, the trojan is believed to have evolved from the earlier Maverick and Sorvepotel malware families. According to BleepingComputer, this campaign primarily targets users in Brazil, where the malware monitors browser activity for interactions with selected financial applications and websites. Unlike passive threats, TCLBanker actively scans the browser address bar every second—rather than waiting for accidental visits—and immediately initiates a WebSocket connection to a command-and-control server upon detecting a targeted platform. This grants attackers remote system access as soon as a user logs into one of the compromised services. Fake Interfaces and Full System Control Enable Sophisticated Attacks The real danger lies in the extensive control TCLBanker provides to threat actors. Operators can remotely view live screen feeds, take snapshots, record keystrokes, intercept clipboard data, execute shell commands, explore file systems, and manipulate input devices—including keyboard and mouse controls. This level of access makes the malware especially hazardous for online banking, digital wallets, and fintech applications. During an active session, attackers can steal copied wallet addresses, entered passwords, or one-time authentication codes. In addition to surveillance capabilities, TCLBanker employs deceptive overlay windows designed to mimic legitimate prompts such as login forms, PIN entry screens, bank support wait pages, Windows Update notifications, and loading progress bars. Despite varying appearances, the underlying objective remains consistent: extract confidential account details while maintaining the illusion of normal operation. Prior to launching its full attack sequence, the trojan verifies system-specific attributes including timezone settings, keyboard layout, and regional locale. These checks help determine whether the infected device aligns with the intended geographic focus of the campaign. A further complication stems from its propagation mechanism. TCLBanker contains built-in worm functionality that allows it to autonomously spread through trusted communication channels like WhatsApp and Outlook, enabling attackers to infiltrate new systems via platforms already familiar to users. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Oklahoma has classified online sweepstakes casinos and social sportsbook products as illegal under the state's gambling laws after lawmakers successfully overrode Gov. Kevin Stitt’s veto and enacted Senate Bill 1589. Key Facts The Oklahoma Senate voted 34 to 10 in favor of overriding the governor's veto. The House of Representatives approved the override with a vote of 68 to 19. Operators, suppliers, geolocation firms, promoters, and affiliates may face felony charges under the new law. The legislation strengthens Oklahoma’s stance against dual-currency gaming by prohibiting mobile platforms that resemble slot machines, lottery games, bingo, or other forms of gambling when players can use both free tokens and real money coins. Governor Stitt had opposed SB 1589 due to its inclusion of criminal penalties. Although the bill had already passed earlier in the legislative session, lawmakers reconvened on Thursday and met the two-thirds majority requirement needed to override his veto, after which it was submitted to the Secretary of State. Social Sportsbooks Lose Another State Route The ban extends beyond traditional sweepstakes casino games to include sweepstakes-based sportsbooks—apps that mimic the appearance and functionality of established platforms like FanDuel or DraftKings but operate under an alternative monetization model.This development is particularly significant in Oklahoma, where legal sports betting remains unavailable. A tribal-backed proposal for sports wagering failed to pass the Senate in April, and another legislative effort in the House also did not advance. As a result, Oklahoma joins 10 other states without any form of legalized sports betting. In contrast, land-based gambling is widely permitted across the state, with more than 100 casinos operating primarily through federally recognized tribal agreements. Tribal gaming leaders supported the sweepstakes prohibition because current compacts ensure that authorized gambling activities remain under tribal jurisdiction. Under SB 1589, companies involved in prohibited sweepstakes operations could be charged with a Class C2 felony, carrying potential fines ranging from $500 to $2,000 and up to 30 days in jail. The law applies broadly across the entire business ecosystem, not just to direct operators of casino or sportsbook apps. The enactment of SB 1589 was part of a broader legislative showdown at the state Capitol. In addition to this bill, Stitt vetoed over 30 pieces of legislation, including HB 4432, which would have allowed certain gambling losses to be deductible for tax purposes. Lawmakers also overturned that veto. 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) -   Hard Rock Bet has reached a significant milestone in its plans to enter the Ontario online sports betting and iGaming market after being registered by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario. Good to Know The AGCO granted Hard Rock Bet its Ontario iGaming registration on Thursday. The brand must still finalize a commercial agreement with iGaming Ontario before it can launch. Ontario is poised to become Hard Rock Bet’s first Canadian market. While Hard Rock Bet currently operates in 10 U.S. states, the Seminole Tribe-owned sportsbook and online casino has yet to establish a presence in Canada. Ontario now stands as its most likely initial entry point north of the border, though the platform has not yet gone live. The AGCO’s official registry confirms the registration. However, provincial regulations also mandate that operators enter into a commercial agreement with iGaming Ontario, the agency responsible for overseeing legal private-sector iGaming in the province. Ottawa Casino Strengthens Hard Rock’s Canadian Presence The online licence follows the opening of the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Ottawa last year—a $350 million development that establishes the company’s first land-based footprint in Canada. This physical venue could serve as a bridge to connect casino patrons with Hard Rock Bet’s upcoming digital sportsbook and online casino offerings. This integrated approach gives Hard Rock Bet a more cohesive local identity compared to purely digital competitors. Ontario players may soon encounter the same brand across retail entertainment, casino gaming, and online platforms, while the Ottawa location could draw additional visitors through cross-promotion with its digital services. The Seminole Tribe of Florida, which owns Hard Rock, has previously signaled interest in expanding into Canada’s online gambling sector. Last year, its digital division was positioned to acquire PointsBet’s Canadian operations as part of a broader takeover of the Australian bookmaker, though that transaction ultimately fell through. Now, Hard Rock Bet has secured its own route into the Ontario market. Alberta may emerge as the brand’s next Canadian destination. The province is set to launch a competitive sports betting and iGaming market on July 13, offering private operators another regulated jurisdiction beyond Ontario. Currently, Ontario and Alberta are the only Canadian provinces with competitive iGaming frameworks that permit private operators to obtain licences and legally accept wagers under provincial oversight. 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) -   Rhode Island is expanding its online sports betting market by approving a second operator, ending years of having only one digital sportsbook available in the state. Good to Know Bally’s secured the second Rhode Island online sportsbook licence over BetRivers. Sportsbook Rhode Island, operated by IGT, has been the sole approved online platform since 2019. Bally’s plans to launch its service in November, following the expiration of IGT's exclusivity period. Bally’s has been granted a license for online sports betting in Rhode Island, as reported by NBC 10 WJAR. This decision introduces a new brand to the state’s mobile wagering landscape and marks the end of a single-operator model that began when online betting launched in 2019. Rush Street Gaming, the owner of BetRivers, also submitted an application. However, no other companies participated in the process, according to Michael O’Rourke, deputy director of the Rhode Island Lottery, who told NBC 10: “There was a thorough review process.“We had hoped for greater participation, but ultimately no additional applicants came forward.” Bally’s Strengthens Its Position in Rhode Island Betting Bally’s already maintains a significant presence in Rhode Island’s sports betting sector. The company operates both retail sportsbooks located within the state’s casinos and previously captured 17% of total sportsbook revenue under the existing agreement with IGT. Under the prior arrangement, IGT retained 32% of revenue, while Rhode Island government received 51% through gaming taxes—the highest sports betting tax rate in the United States. This high rate likely discouraged major operators like FanDuel and DraftKings from entering the market. With its new licence, Bally’s will now receive 49% of revenue from its own online sportsbook, while the state continues to collect 51%, according to NBC 10. Although final contract details are pending, Bally’s is scheduled to go live in November when the current IGT exclusivity agreement concludes. Patti Doyle, spokesperson for Bally’s, stated: “Bally’s is delighted to have been awarded a second sports betting licence by the State of Rhode Island. We appreciate the trust and confidence placed in us to deliver a top-tier product—designed for scalability, innovation, and meeting the evolving needs of today’s bettors—which will contribute additional revenue to support Rhode Island taxpayers.” The state opened applications late last year, with operators required to submit their proposals by February. The lottery commission viewed increased competition as a means to retain more betting activity within Rhode Island rather than losing customers to nearby Massachusetts sportsbooks. Bally’s will operate its online sportsbook in Rhode Island for at least five years, with an option to extend for another five-year term. 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 NCAA has determined that former Abilene Christian basketball player Airion Simmons breached sports betting integrity regulations, resulting in his permanent ineligibility under NCAA guidelines. Key Facts Airion Simmons and two other Abilene Christian players are alleged to have conspired with a bettor to intentionally lose a March 2024 basketball game. Simmons subsequently informed NCAA enforcement officials about a separate bettor who had approached him regarding fixing the outcome of the game. Federal prosecutors charged Simmons in January as part of a broader sports betting probe involving 20 individuals. According to the NCAA, Simmons was provided with cash connected to the alleged scheme; however, he did not compensate the other student-athletes involved. One of those athletes later reported the incident to the NCAA, which initiated the enforcement review. The NCAA released its ruling on Friday. Reinstatement for Simmons would require support from an NCAA member institution, though permanent ineligibility significantly complicates this possibility. The NCAA stated:“While the Committee on Infractions does not impose penalties on student-athletes who violate NCAA rules, their involvement in such violations carries consequences. Student-athletes found in violation are ineligible and may only be reinstated with the assistance of an NCAA school.” Federal Case Highlights Broader Concerns Over College Betting The case against Simmons falls within a larger federal investigation into collegiate sports betting. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania indicted 20 people in January. The NCAA has already imposed sanctions on Will Richardson and Elijah Gray, former Fordham players, and Simeon Cottle, a former Kennesaw State athlete. As legal sports wagering expands across the United States, concerns over college sports integrity have grown. Since 2023, the NCAA has urged state regulators to restrict high-risk college gambling markets—including prop bets on individual players and first-half totals—citing increased risks to student-athletes, officials, and game integrity. Following the January indictments, the NCAA reiterated its call for stricter state laws and oversight to better safeguard competitions.NCAA president Charlie Baker commented: “The Association remains committed to aggressively pursuing sports betting violations in college athletics through a comprehensive integrity monitoring program covering more than 22,000 events. However, we continue to need the remaining states and regulatory bodies to remove threats to integrity so we can better protect athletes and leagues from risks posed by predatory bettors.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Kalshi’s latest sponsorship agreement with UFC champion Nate Diaz prompted us to examine prominent athletes who have publicly supported gambling companies. Our selection features some of the most renowned figures in professional sports, both current and retired, who have achieved the highest level of success in their careers. Important note: This list is limited to athletes based in North America. LeBron James & DraftKings Sportsbook Partnership began: January 2024 LeBron James, a four-time NBA champion and the all-time leading scorer in league history with 43,440 points, entered into a multi-year contract with DraftKings. Under this arrangement, James focused exclusively on weekly football predictions, with any NBA-related content strictly prohibited. Television and online advertisements featuring James alongside comedian Kevin Hart became increasingly common. In our view, this collaboration produced their most entertaining commercial spot yet. DraftKings has effectively leveraged “The King” as a brand ambassador, making this partnership our top choice. Rob Gronkowski & FanDuel Partnership began: January 2022 Few moments are more memorable than Rob Gronkowski’s “Kick of Destiny” marketing campaigns during Super Bowl 2023 and 2024—though he missed both attempts! This innovative promotion allowed FanDuel users to vote “Yes” or “No” on whether Gronkowski would successfully make the kick, with $10 million in Bonus Bets at stake. Those who voted “No” shared in that prize pool. More recently, FanDuel Casino launched a slot game inspired by Gronkowski titled All Gronk, All Gold, ahead of Super Bowl LVII in February. Despite his difficulties with field goals, Gronkowski has significantly boosted FanDuel’s brand visibility as a high-profile endorser. Giannis Antetokounmpo & Kalshi Partnership began: February 2026 This deal sparked controversy amid ongoing NBA betting scandals. NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo acquired an ownership stake in Kalshi through his company, Ante Inc. Antetokounmpo will appear in commercials and at live events promoting Kalshi. Under NBA rules, players may hold passive stakes of less than 1% in gambling-related businesses. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver clarified why the transaction complied with regulations. “We have a rule—agreed upon collectively with the Players Association—that permits players to make what I’d call de minimis investments in sports betting companies, and we’re applying the same standard to prediction markets,” Silver explained. He continued, “In Giannis’s case, as far as I understand, the investment is much smaller than 1%, so it doesn’t violate the rules.” Wayne Gretzky & BetMGM Partnership began: June 2021 Like LeBron James, Wayne Gretzky won four Stanley Cups and holds the record for most career points (2,857) in NHL history. Similar to Rob Gronkowski, Gretzky also has a custom slot game at BetMGM. Gretzky has starred in numerous commercials for “The King of Sportsbooks,” including a recent ad featuring current Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid. Notably, Gretzky also appeared in BetMGM’s Super Bowl advertisement alongside Tom Brady and actor Vince Vaughn two years ago. Although we considered including Tom Brady, he no longer has a promotional deal with BetMGM following his role as a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders. The NFL prohibits its personnel from endorsing any form of gambling, including sports betting. In a January study, researchers from Towson University and Notre Dame of Maryland University analyzed YouTube comments on gambling advertisements. While comedian Jamie Foxx drew the most criticism for BetMGM, Wayne Gretzky received four negative comments for every positive one. Commenters argued that it was “a bad look for someone who used to represent integrity in sports” to promote gambling on athletic competition. Despite this backlash, the long-standing relationship between BetMGM and “The Great One” continues to endure. 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 temporary casino will open approximately 80 miles north of Houston, Texas, this summer as part of the development for the state’s inaugural full-scale casino resort. The Alabama-Coushatta Tribe has received federal authorization to construct an Indian gaming facility on off-reservation property located in Leggett, Polk County. Construction on the site is set to begin next month, with a provisional venue scheduled to commence operations later this summer. Casino to Offer a Restricted Selection of Games However, the new casino will not provide a comprehensive range of gaming options due to Texas’s stringent gambling regulations. In June 2023, courts ruled that Texas tribes are permitted to operate Class II games on tribal lands without requiring state approval. Class II gaming excludes roulette, blackjack, and other traditional house-banked casino games. It encompasses only player-vs-player contests, including bingo, poker, and other “non-banked” card games. Slot machines are allowed, but exclusively those where payouts come from wagers placed by other players. Currently, there are three operational tribal casinos in Texas: the Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino in Eagle Pass, the Speaking Rock Casino in El Paso, and the Naskila Casino in Livingston, which is managed by the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe. New Facility Will Replace Naskila Casino The existing Naskila Casino houses 835 electronic bingo machines, features two dining venues, and operates around the clock. The tribe reports that the casino contributes $212 million annually to the local economy and employs 409 individuals with an average annual wage of $50,000. Once the new development becomes fully operational, the current Naskila Casino in Livingston will cease operations. The temporary facility will initially offer 300 electronic gaming machines, though the permanent resort is expected to include significantly more. Details about the complete project remain undisclosed, but it is anticipated to include a hotel, multiple restaurants, an entertainment complex, and an expanded gaming floor. Las Vegas Sands Aims to Launch First Commercial Casino in Texas The opening of the state’s first resort-style casino could serve as a catalyst for introducing commercial gaming venues in Texas. Las Vegas Sands has identified North Texas as its preferred location for launching the company’s initial casino within the state. Currently, Las Vegas Sands does not operate any active casinos in the United States. Nevertheless, the company has invested substantial resources into lobbying efforts to secure regulatory approval for a Texas-based development. Its two primary political action committees—the Texas Sands PAC and the Texas Defense PAC—have collectively donated over $15 million to political candidates throughout the state. Andy Abboud, Senior Vice President at Las Vegas Sands, stated that the company’s advocacy efforts will continue until approval is granted. When questioned about the timeline, he responded, “Forever. We’re not going anywhere. We are fully committed to this initiative. It represents a tremendous opportunity, and the people of Texas clearly want it. Our presence here is long-term and unwavering.” Although legislative approval has yet to be secured, Las Vegas Sands has already begun recruiting personnel in Dallas. The company currently lists 10 open positions in Texas, including roles such as application architects, data engineers, and a senior product manager responsible for developing casino management software “from the ground up.” With the planned resort near Houston commencing operations, Las Vegas Sands anticipates that local residents may become increasingly receptive to the concept of a casino resort in Dallas. 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 prohibition on sweepstakes casinos is set to become law in Oklahoma starting November 1, following the legislature's override of Governor Kevin Stitt's veto. Stitt rejected SB1589 earlier this week, but the Senate voted 34-10 to overturn the Governor's decision. The House then did the same with a 68-19 vote, resulting in the bill being officially filed. Dual-Currency Gambling to Be Prohibited Once effective in November, the law will forbid operators from employing dual-currency systems to provide online casino games. The legislation describes online casino games as “any gambling game accessible via the internet or a device like a computer, phone, or tablet that, upon risking any representative of value, simulates any gambling game.” It further defines “representative of value” as “any and all currency within a dual-currency payment system that can be exchanged for a prize, cash, or a chance to win such items.” Currently, most major sweepstakes casinos still operate in Oklahoma. Continuing after November could result in Class C2 felony charges, carrying fines from $500 to $2,000 and possible jail time. Governor Objects to Vague Definitions Gov. Stitt issued a statement detailing his reasons for vetoing the bill. “Oklahoma’s gaming laws need to be clear, targeted, and fair. Senate Bill 1589 fails to meet that standard,” the Governor wrote. “This bill is so broad that it criminalizes everyday apps people use for fun. It also unnecessarily establishes a new felony and broadens criminal liability to businesses and service providers,” Stitt added. “Such a vague and overreaching method creates uncertainty for legitimate businesses and hinders innovation and investment. Oklahoma can safeguard consumers without imposing criminal penalties that go further than necessary.” Will Louisiana Governor Also Veto Approved Ban? Louisiana legislators also forwarded a bill to the Governor on Thursday aiming to ban dual-currency gambling platforms. HB883 contains wording similar to Oklahoma's bill. It expands the definition of illegal gambling to include: “Any internet or device-accessible game using a dual-currency system where the currency can be exchanged for prizes or cash, simulating gambling, constitutes gambling by computer.” Gov. Jeff Landry vetoed a comparable bill last year, noting the existing enforcement tools against illegal gambling. The state then issued cease-and-desist orders to 40 offshore and sweepstakes operators. Many have obeyed, with at least 57 platforms now blocking Louisiana users. Consequently, Gov. Landry might veto this bill as well. Echoing Gov. Stitt's concerns, Gov. Landry stated last year that “some of the language in this bill is overly broad and could be interpreted negatively, potentially harming our ongoing enforcement efforts against these bad actors.” If he approves the ban, Louisiana would be the fifth state this year to outlaw sweepstakes casinos. Besides Oklahoma, Tennessee, Indiana, and Maine have all enacted bans on these platforms. 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 Chinese man who attempted to report fellow gamblers to the police for cheating during an illegal gaming session has ended up in prison. The man, surnamed Wu, was betting on rounds of tui bing zi—a popular tile-based gambling game using mahjong tiles—at an undisclosed location in Anshan City, Liaoning Province. Tui bing zi requires participants to try to outscore a dealer, similar to the card game blackjack. However, during his illegal gambling session with eight other individuals, Wu grew suspicious that his fellow players were conspiring to cheat at the game and ensure he kept losing, according to reports from the Chinese media outlet GWM. Chinese gamblers often use mahjong tiles to play tui bing zi. (Image: Jericka Cruz) Chinese Gamblers: Cheating Row Lands All Parties in Prison The Haicheng Public Security Bureau of Liaoning Province said a “farcical situation” unfolded when Wu called a local police station to complain that he had lost 2,300 yuan ($340) during a “rigged” tui bing zi tournament. He requested the police to “uphold justice” on his behalf. Police officers were dispatched to the scene but discovered that the gambling session had already concluded. Nonetheless, Wu and two others remained at the location as the dispute continued. Officers arrested all three individuals. During police questioning, the trio reportedly provided full confessions. Downtown Anshan, in China’s Liaoning Province. (Image: Philarcher0615 [CC BY-SA 3.0]) Police later apprehended a man surnamed Wang, whom they accused of using “custom-made glasses” to cheat during the tournament. The bureau sentenced Wang to 15 days in jail. However, it also detained Wu and the remaining seven individuals for 10 days for engaging in illegal gambling. The bureau imposed fines totaling 1,000 yuan (approximately $150) on all but one of the gamblers. One man, surnamed Zhou, was fined $300 after police identified him as the organizer of the tournament. Crime Wave Gathers Intensity Law enforcement agencies across China are currently intensifying their efforts against a rising wave of illegal gambling. Detectives state that gamblers are now gathering in abandoned buildings and remote rural areas. Gangs have become highly organized, utilizing encrypted chat applications to coordinate secret betting sessions and employing CCTV equipment to monitor for law enforcement. Betting ring organizers believe this strategy will help them evade detection. Nevertheless, officers assert they are leveraging an extensive network of informants and drones to identify and arrest illegal gamblers. All forms of gambling are prohibited in China, except for two state-run national lotteries. The government categorizes both lotteries as authorized forms of fundraising by the state. 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 prominent politician has commended the Indonesian police following their dismantling of a major online gambling network and the arrest of 321 foreign nationals. According to the official website of the Gerindra Party, police conducted raids on a commercial property located in Jakarta’s Chinatown district. Indonesian National Police (Polri) authorities stated that the premises functioned as a central hub for the network. Its operators reportedly managed approximately 70 online casino platforms, primarily targeting clients outside Indonesia. Indonesia is currently intensifying its crackdown on online casinos, promoters, and participants involved in gambling activities. Courts in the country are empowered to impose prison sentences of up to 10 years on those found operating illegal gambling sites. Gerindra lawmaker Bob Hasan, who serves as a member of one of the largest policy-making commissions within the Indonesian House of Representatives, publicly praised Polri’s efforts. He emphasized that the operation demonstrated the government’s firm commitment to dismantling criminal networks and curbing the surge in illegal online gambling. “[The commission] extends its deepest appreciation to our law enforcement officers,” Hasan remarked. “The police acted swiftly and decisively against international online gambling operators.” An exclusive report by Kompas TV on the recent arrests in Jakarta. Indonesian Police Arrest 321: Key Details Polri confirmed that among those arrested were 228 Vietnamese citizens, along with 57 Chinese nationals. The remaining individuals held citizenship from Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Malaysia, as verified by Wira Satya Triputra, head of general crime investigations at Polri. Hasan highlighted the raid as evidence that organized foreign criminal syndicates are actively operating in Indonesia through online gambling networks. “This incident confirms that the online gambling network involves external actors,” the lawmaker asserted. “It must be eradicated at its source. We cannot afford to limit our response to a single case only.” He cautioned that the arrested individuals might represent merely the surface of a much larger operation. Hasan called for police to conduct comprehensive searches across “various regions” to identify additional members of the network. Police have reaffirmed that their investigation remains ongoing and may be expanded further as new leads emerge. “Online gambling has become a deeply troubling phenomenon,” Hasan concluded. “The government must take resolute action to dismantle all such networks and safeguard the public interest.” A Highly Structured Criminal Organization Polri officials revealed that they brought down the network before it could fully develop. According to the police chief, the operation had only been active for about two months prior to the raids. Wira described the organization as highly sophisticated. He noted that the multinational workforce was strategically assigned to various functional roles within the enterprise. Some employees handled customer service duties, while others specialized in marketing or financial operations. Earlier this month, Polri issued a warning about an anticipated “explosion” in illegal sports betting activity. Officials anticipate a wave of fraudulent sports betting websites targeting soccer enthusiasts ahead of this summer’s FIFA World Cup. CasinoBeats has observed recent evidence showing numerous illegal betting platforms continuing to promote their services to Indonesian users via widely used internet channels. 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) -   Despite being blacklisted in Italy and a ban on gambling sponsorships in sports, Polymarket has announced partnerships with Serie A and Italian soccer club Lazio. On Thursday, Polymarket revealed that it had signed an agreement to become “the official and exclusive prediction market partner of Serie A in the United States.” Under the terms of the deal, Polymarket will receive brand integrations across the soccer league’s U.S. media and digital platforms. “The next phase of sports engagement won’t be defined by more content, but by more participation,” said Shayne Coplan, Founder & CEO of Polymarket. “Prediction markets give fans a way to actively interpret the game in real time, and partnering with Serie A brings that model to one of the world’s most followed leagues at a moment when American interest in the sport is at an all-time high.” This partnership in Italy follows Polymarket’s recent collaboration with Spain’s soccer league, La Liga. It marks its first deal with a European soccer league, though the company also maintains agreements with Major League Soccer (MLS) and several other sporting organizations, including MLB, NHL, and UFC. Polymarket Will Feature on Lazio Shirts Next Season In addition to its arrangement with Serie A, one of the league’s prominent clubs, Lazio, confirmed that Polymarket will appear on the front of their shirts starting next season. The deal is reportedly valued at $22 million over two years and appears to circumvent Italy’s prohibition on gambling-related sponsorships. Italy enacted the Decreto Dignità (Dignity Decree) in 2019, which bans all forms of gambling and betting advertisements—including sponsorships for sports teams and leagues. Alongside serving as the club’s primary sponsor, Polymarket is also designated as the Official Fan Intelligence & Digital Insight Partner of Lazio. The club has emphasized that Polymarket functions as an informational resource rather than a betting platform. “Polymarket is a partner that interprets the future, capable of reading and analyzing trends through innovative tools,” stated Lazio President Claudio Lotito. “This agreement strengthens Lazio’s international development strategy and reflects the club’s commitment to positioning itself as a modern, open, and competitive entity within the evolving landscape of global sport.” Italy Blocks Access to Polymarket Italy is listed among the restricted jurisdictions on Polymarket’s website, alongside 32 other countries. The Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli (ADM), Italy’s gambling regulatory authority, blocked access to Polymarket last year due to concerns that it operates as an unlicensed gambling platform. Following an appeal, the agency permitted users to view the site’s news, surveys, and general information, but continues to prevent Italians from engaging in Polymarket’s prediction markets. Michele Ciccarese, Marketing & Commercial Director of Serie A, clarified that the partnership aims to promote the league in America, not to advance Polymarket’s presence in Italy. “The United States represents a key growth market for Serie A,” said Ciccarese. “Our exclusive alliance with Polymarket, as Regional Partner in the USA, enables us to connect with a new generation of fans via a platform aligned with emerging trends. It delivers an interactive, real-time experience rooted in insights and participation—perfectly matching their expectations.” Companies Find Workarounds Around Gambling Sponsorship Bans While officially framed as a move to boost Serie A’s profile in the U.S., this deal also exposes Polymarket’s brand within Italy despite the country’s gambling sponsorship restrictions and the company’s blocked status there. Other gambling operators have similarly navigated around Italy’s sponsorship rules. Betsson, the Swedish gambling firm, displays its logo on Inter Milan’s shirts under the name Betsson Sport. Betsson Sport is officially described as a “sports infotainment” portal and is legally distinct from Betsson’s core gambling operations. Notably, Betsson holds a valid gambling license in Italy. LeoVegas.News pioneered a loophole by allowing companies to use similar branding under different names. As the news division of online casino LeoVegas, it now partners with Atalanta and Inter Milan. Roma features Eurobet.live on its kit—another “sports infotainment” brand separate from Eurobet, which belongs to Entain. Meanwhile, AC Milan collaborates with Snaifun instead of directly with Snai, which is owned by Flutter. Roma and Palermo both showcase StarCasinò Sport on their jerseys, a distinct entity from StarCasinò, the actual gambling brand. Similarly, Napoli has partnered with 365Scores, part of the bet365 group. Clubs seeking to maintain visibility in the English Premier League may consider these strategies ahead of next season, when the EPL will implement a voluntary ban on front-of-shirt gambling sponsors. To date, teams have avoided compliance by securing sleeve and training kit sponsorships instead. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. 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(AsiaGameHub) -   Prosecutors are asking for an 18-month prison term for Yasiel Puig, a former MLB player convicted on two federal charges. These charges stem from Puig’s connection to illegal bookmaker Wayne Nix, who will likely receive a shorter sentence. Puig is scheduled to be sentenced on May 26. Nix is still awaiting his sentencing, but having pleaded guilty, he’s expected to face a punishment similar to that of fellow illegal bookmaker Mathew Bowyer. Bowyer—known for accepting wagers from Shohei Ohtani’s disgraced interpreter—was given a 12-month prison sentence. He admitted guilt to running an illegal gambling business, money laundering, and filing a false tax return. Puig’s Expected Sentence Linked to Failure to Cooperate Puig was found guilty of lying to investigators and obstructing justice. While these offenses carry a maximum sentence of 20 years, prosecutors are seeking 18 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release and a $55,200 fine. Nix’s charges have a maximum penalty of eight years. Puig’s case revolves around a 2022 interview where he denied placing illegal bets. He told investigators he knew Donny Kadokawa—the intermediary he used to place bets—through baseball, not sports gambling. It’s alleged he lost over $1.5 million gambling with Nix via Kadokawa. Yet it’s his lack of cooperation, rather than the illegal betting itself, that will lead to his imprisonment. The 35-year-old initially agreed to a plea deal, telling prosecutors he would plead guilty to one count of making a false statement to a federal agent and pay a $55,000 fine. However, he later backed out of the agreement. During the trial, investigators cited his lack of cooperation when playing interview audio. Nix also described dealing with the ex-Dodger as a “disaster.” While cooperating with investigators, the bookie said he cut ties with the player because “he simply wasn’t worth the headache.” Nix stated Puig repeatedly refused to pay his losses yet demanded additional credit to place more bets. Defense Seeks Leniency Keri Curtis Axel, Puig’s attorney, has urged the judge to show leniency and spare her client from prison time. “Yasiel Puig is a first-time offender who has already been punished through years of prosecution, reputational damage, financial consequences, and the effective destruction of his professional life,” she told The Athletic. “A prison sentence is not proportional to his conduct and would not serve any rehabilitative purpose here. The Court has full discretion over the sentence, and the defense will request probation.” Puig Avoided Punishment for Alleged Sexual Assaults While facing prison time for lying to investigators, Puig has escaped consequences for what appear to be more severe crimes. In March 2021, a woman accused him of sexual assault during a 2018 Lakers game. He denied the allegations, but the woman later sued him. The two parties settled in 2022, as reported by Sports Illustrated. He is also alleged to have settled a lawsuit filed by two women who claimed he sexually assaulted them in 2017. The settlements were kept secret, allowing Puig to avoid any MLB sanctions over the cases. Puig Continues Career in Canada Amid Charges Despite the potential of facing prison time soon, Puig signed a contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs last month. He started their first game on May 10, hitting two home runs in the process. Yasiel Puig, currently playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs of the Canadian Baseball League, just homered in his first first game in Canada pic.twitter.com/XHVlQlnL4L— Baseball Quotes (@BaseballQuotes1) May 10, 2026 When announcing his signing, the Canadian Baseball League made no mention of his likely imprisonment, but stated: “Puig’s signing continues a growing trend of high-profile talent joining the CBL.” The Leafs have reportedly given the former Dodgers star the largest contract in Canadian Baseball League history. Before signing with Toronto, Puig played in Korea for the Kiwoom Heroes. 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) -   Almost a quarter of Florida residents are placing sports bets, according to a new survey, with 80% of gamblers wagering on NFL game outcomes over the past 12 months. The findings come from a University of North Florida and Sport Impact Jax survey of more than 800 Florida residents conducted between January and February. Football stands out as the top sport for Floridian gamblers when it comes to betting. Fifty-five percent of online bettors reported placing at least one college football bet in the past year. Most Floridians, the data shows, prefer straightforward wagers. The majority of punters (60%) said their bets were moneyline bets. Also known as outrights, moneyline bets are considered the simplest form of sports wagering. They typically involve selecting one team in a head-to-head matchup before the game begins. Florida Sports Betting Habits: Moneyline Wagers Remain Popular Most Floridians aren’t making large sports bets. Nearly three-quarters of Sunshine State gamblers stake $20 or less per game, with just one in 10 typically betting more than $50 on a single game. NFL betting is growing across the U.S., with bettors placing $30 billion in wagers on the league last season. However, NFL executives seem to believe the biggest profits may not come from moneyline bets but rather live-game wagers. In March, CNN reported that the NFL has made significant investments in sportsbook provider Genius Sports. Genius specializes in in-play betting solutions and claims it’s working to “turn traditional fans into highly engaged in-play bettors.” The NFL holds at least a 6% ownership stake in the company, which reports that live-game betting now accounts for approximately 30% of all bets placed on NFL games. In Florida, nearly half of punters said they had placed an in-game bet in the past 12 months. The Miami Dolphins during an NFL game. (Image: CCS Pictures [CC BY-SA 2.0]) Sports Betting Growing in Florida Sports betting was officially legalized in Florida in 2021 through a gaming agreement with the Seminole Tribe. However, various legal challenges delayed its implementation until late 2023. The Seminole Tribe’s Hard Rock Bet remains the only retail mobile sportsbook partner in the Sunshine State. Unsurprisingly, over two-thirds of Floridians say this is the platform they use to place their sports bets. The tribe notably opened the first high-stakes bingo hall in the U.S. in 1979. Some have suggested that the tribe’s monopoly on gambling in Florida has contributed to increased criminal activity. Law enforcement continues to target illegal betting operations across the state. Raids have resulted in arrests including a county sheriff and seizures of dozens of illegally installed slot machines. 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) -   Okada Manila reported a 17% decline in first-quarter gaming revenue compared to the same period last year, as parent company Universal Entertainment Corp highlighted ongoing challenges in the Philippine casino market. Key Facts Okada Manila’s Q1 casino GGR fell 17.2% year-on-year to approximately PHP6.47 billion. VIP revenue dropped by 19% due to a lower win rate. Tiger Resort and PhilWeb have introduced the Okada Play online gaming platform. Okada Manila is now prioritizing its online gaming strategy. Universal Entertainment noted that rising travel costs—partly linked to the Middle East situation—have made it more difficult for certain guests to visit the resort in person, prompting a greater focus on expanding Philippine online gaming services. This announcement followed PhilWeb Corp’s confirmation of the launch of Okada Play in collaboration with Tiger Resort, Leisure and Entertainment Inc., a subsidiary of Universal Entertainment that operates Okada Manila. First Quarter Hit by VIP Weakness and Rising Costs In the first three months of 2026, Okada Manila generated casino GGR of nearly PHP6.47 billion (about $108.1 million), marking a 17.2% decrease from the previous year, although it increased by 9.1% compared to the fourth quarter of 2025.Universal Entertainment stated: “We recognise that the gaming market in Entertainment City, Manila, Philippines, remains in a period of adjustment,” “Partly due to the situation in the Middle East, the market as a whole continues to contract.” VIP revenue declined by 19% year-on-year to around PHP1.44 billion, with Universal Entertainment attributing the drop to a lower win rate. Mass-market table revenue fell 24.2% to PHP2.30 billion, while gaming machine revenue decreased 8.9% to PHP2.73 billion.Competitive pressures to attract mass-market players have also intensified, driving up customer acquisition costs, according to Universal Entertainment: “Against the backdrop of structural changes in the VIP market, fierce competition with rivals to acquire mass-market customers continues, driving up customer acquisition costs,” Despite these headwinds, the integrated resort segment remained profitable. Universal credited improved performance to lower fixed costs, reduced selling, general and administrative expenses, decreased depreciation following an asset revaluation in the prior fiscal year, and modifications to the Okada Manila loyalty programme. The company anticipates increased competition in Philippine gaming throughout 2026 and warned that the impact from the Middle East situation may extend beyond the second quarter. As a result, growth in online casino operations is expected to become a more critical growth avenue for Okada Manila this year. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Lodge Card Club located in Round Rock, Texas, will resume operations on May 26 at 9 a.m., two months after a state raid shuttered the poker room. Good to Know Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission agents raided The Lodge Card Club in March. A Williamson County Grand Jury ultimately found insufficient evidence to file a criminal indictment. Poker operations will resume May 26, while Frank & Margie’s will open its doors May 16. The first poker event following the reopening will be a $50 no-limit hold’em tournament at 10:15 a.m. on May 26. Two additional low-buy-in events are planned for the same day, letting members quickly return to live poker as the World Series of Poker launches in Las Vegas. The club announced the news on Tuesday via Twitter/X, stating: “Welcome back home Lodge members.” Welcome back home Lodge members. The grand reopening is May 26th at 9am pic.twitter.com/YYLiMaPhgQ — Lodge Card Club (@LodgePokerClub) May 12, 2026 Round Rock Poker Room Set to Resume Operations The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission shut down The Lodge in March, citing money laundering and illegal gambling allegations. State authorities also froze assets connected to the club. This case shifted in April when a Williamson County Grand Jury declined to indict the property owners. Without a criminal indictment, The Lodge now plans to bring back staff, players, and regular poker games. The reopening will also assist players who still had chips at the club during the raid. Those players are expected to receive their payouts once operations restart. Several familiar aspects of the business will return as well. The “Poker at the Lodge” livestream, which has nearly 240,000 YouTube subscribers, is anticipated to resume after poker operations restart in Round Rock. Food service will look updated. Odds Bar & Bistro is being replaced by Frank & Margie’s, an Italian-American restaurant opening May 16, ahead of the poker room’s reopening. The company also operates a Lodge card club in San Antonio. This location was not raided and stayed open during the Round Rock shutdown. 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) -   Individuals affected by the AirBit Club crypto Ponzi scheme now have a potential avenue to recoup losses after the US Justice Department launched a compensation procedure linked to forfeited assets. Good to Know The DOJ indicates that over $400 million in forfeited assets may be used to reimburse qualifying victims. AirBit Club was promoted as a cryptocurrency mining and trading venture offering assured profits. RCB Fund Services will reach out to identified victims regarding petition submissions. The Justice Department stated that the United States has seized more than $400 million in assets tied to AirBit Club. These assets consist of real estate, US dollars, and cryptocurrency obtained from the scheme. AirBit Club operators presented the enterprise as a cryptocurrency mining and trading platform. Participants were assured of guaranteed returns, although prosecutors later characterized the operation as a Ponzi scheme. DOJ Opens AirBit Club Recovery Process The compensation initiative followed sentencing in 2023 of several individuals linked to AirBit Club. Among them were co-founders Pablo Renato Rodriguez and Gutemberg Dos Santos, promoters Cecilia Millan and Karina Chairez, and attorney Scott Hughes.“To date, the United States has forfeited over $400 million in assets that are now available to compensate eligible victims for their qualifying losses. Victims who have already shared their details with the FBI or U.S. Attorney’s Office will be contacted by the remission administrator, RCB Fund Services, LLC, (RCB) to submit a petition,” the DOJ stated. Those who previously supplied information to the FBI or the US Attorney’s Office are expected to be contacted by RCB Fund Services, which will manage petition processing through the remission procedure. Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department Criminal Division remarked: “The defendants exploited the rising interest in virtual currency to advance the scheme and attract additional victims. The criminal convictions and substantial asset recoveries achieved by prosecutors and law enforcement partners have allowed the Department to initiate this meaningful victim compensation effort.” 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 United Kingdom has launched a new independent research centre dedicated to gambling-related harm, with levy funding allocated for evidence-building, prevention efforts, and policy-focused work. Key Details to Know The Gambling Harms Research UK Evidence Centre will receive £22.1 million in funding for the 2025-2026 period. UKRI will finance the centre using 20% of the statutory national Gambling Levy. The Universities of Glasgow, Sheffield, Swansea, and King’s College London will lead the centre’s work. The new Gambling Harms Research UK Evidence Centre launches after years of widespread concern over weak evidence, industry influence, and limited research capacity in gambling harm policy. A consortium from the Universities of Glasgow, Sheffield, Swansea, and King’s College London will operate the centre. DCMS announced the launch on Thursday, while UK Research and Innovation will deliver funding via a portion of the government-run statutory levy. Independent Evidence Is the Top Priority Funding from the levy gives the project full scale and capacity from day one. UKRI will use its 20% share of the Gambling Levy to support the centre, which equals £22.1 million for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. Earlier in 2025, the levy also allocated £25.4 million to gambling harm prevention organizations.The centre will research gambling harm across a range of areas: public health, policy, sport, online gambling, video-game gambling, financial data, algorithms, and structural risk factors. It will also coordinate 19 Innovation Partnerships under the GHR-UK framework. Professor Heather Wardle, director of the centre and professor of gambling research and policy at the University of Glasgow, stated: “For far too long, gambling research has been under-resourced and overlooked. “New funding through the levy and UKRI marks a vital reset for the field, strengthening the quality and scale of gambling harms research and ensuring policy is driven by rigorous, independent evidence.”UKRI reports that harmful gambling costs the UK economy around £1.4 billion every year. It has also linked gambling harm to increased public health pressure, higher criminal justice costs, depression, and suicide. Independence stands as the core of the project. In April 2025, gambling harm researchers warned Parliament about past industry influence over research funding and priority-setting. Wardle also told the health and social care committee that earlier research often reflected research questions and viewpoints shaped by the gambling sector itself. Lived experience of harm will also guide the centre’s work. Martin Jones, a campaigner and charity worker who has experienced a gambling-related suicide in his family, will serve as the centre’s lived-experience lead. He said: “Research is not just an abstract intellectual exercise that exists in isolation. “It is, and should be, closely connected to the real gambling harms that affect real people. “We need to do far more to prevent these harms, and coordinating top-tier research will support this goal, especially as we explore more complex areas like suicide, algorithms, and financial data.”The centre is part of a broader UKRI Research Programme focused on gambling. That programme already includes 32 rapid evidence reviews, 19 Innovation Partnerships, and four UKRI policy fellows. UKRI also plans to allocate additional funding for topics such as the overlap between gambling and video gaming. 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) -   Online gambling in Belgium has surged since 2018, despite the implementation of strict advertising restrictions by licensed private operators. Key Facts According to Sciensano, 14.8% of Belgians now gamble online, compared to 7.9% in 2018. 52.6% of Belgians continue to encounter gambling advertisements at least once a week. BAGO notes that both lottery advertising and illegal gambling sites are still able to reach players. The Sciensano Health Interview Survey 2023-2024 reveals a discrepancy between government policy and actual player behavior. Although Belgium imposed significant ad restrictions on licensed private operators in 2023, online gambling participation has nearly doubled over the past five years. The Belgian Association of Gaming Operators (BAGO) is calling for more robust measures against unlicensed gambling platforms. The industry body argues that weekly exposure to gambling advertisements stems not only from regulated private companies but also from other sources beyond their control. Lottery Ads And Illegal Sites Continue To Reach Players Sciensano data shows that 31.9% of Belgians have engaged in gambling within the past year, while 8.0% do so on a weekly basis. Online gambling participation stands at 14.8% of the population, with the highest rate among individuals aged 25–34 at 20.2%. The survey also indicates that 2.6% of the overall population may be at risk of problem gambling using the short-form PGSI assessment; this figure rises to 7.7% among those who gambled within the last year. Gambling advertisements remain highly visible across various media channels. Weekly ad exposure was reported by 51.1% of respondents via television, 47.3% through websites and apps, and 46.4% via social media. Additional exposure occurred through street ads, retail displays, newspapers, and magazines. Licensed private gambling operators in Belgium are prohibited from placing ads on television, radio, newspapers, magazines, social media, email, postal mail, and SMS. Limited advertising opportunities persist through venue-based communications, operator websites, and certain search engine platforms. A ban on sports sponsorships took effect at the beginning of 2025. The National Lottery operates largely outside the scope of the Gambling Act. Sciensano reports indicate it remains the most popular form of gambling, used by 29.5% of Belgians—representing approximately 92% of all gamblers in the country. Crucially, lottery advertisements are still permitted across television, radio, and social media channels. BAGO emphasized that the 52.6% figure for weekly ad exposure “does not originate exclusively from licensed private operators.” The association explained that exposure is “also influenced by entities operating outside the regulatory framework, under transitional arrangements, or in violation of current rules.” Belgium also faces challenges from offshore gambling operators. These unlicensed sites frequently target users through social media, affiliate networks, and influencers, circumventing essential consumer protections such as EPIS self-exclusion tools, weekly deposit limits, age verification processes, and broader player safeguards applicable in the licensed market. This trend extends beyond Belgium’s borders. An analysis by the Italian Football Federation linked the 2018 Dignity Decree advertising ban to an estimated €25 billion annually in unregulated wagers. Similarly, a Dutch study published in 2024 found the size of the illegal gambling market grew from roughly 20% in 2021 to over 35% by late 2023 following stricter deposit and advertising regulations. In contrast, the United Kingdom has adopted a different approach. The UK Gambling Commission recently created a senior position focused on combating illegal markets, while the government allocated £26 million to enforcement efforts after research by the Betting and Gaming Council projected the UK’s black market would reach £16.6 billion in 2025. 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 former federal prosecutor in West Virginia has pleaded guilty to identity theft after prosecutors said she used stolen identities to open and profit from online gambling accounts. Good to Know Monica Dillon pleaded guilty to five counts of identity theft. Prosecutors said the conduct ran from January 2021 to January 2023. No online gambling or sports betting company was named in the case. US District Judge Kenneth E. Bell approved the guilty plea and pretrial diversion agreement on Tuesday. Bell, a judge from North Carolina, handled the case because Dillon spent nearly 20 years as an assistant US attorney in the Southern District of West Virginia. Under the agreement, Dillon avoids prison and must serve two years of probation through the US Probation Office. Without the deal, the charges carried a possible 20-year prison sentence and a $500,000 fine. Gambling Accounts At Center Of Fraud Case Prosecutors said Dillon used five stolen identities to gamble online between January 2021 and January 2023. She made at least $1,000 from three victim accounts, according to a fact sheet filed on April 22.Her restitution requirement is narrower. The plea agreement requires Dillon to pay $30,000 to one person, listed as “Victim 1.” Both online casino gambling and mobile sports betting are legal in West Virginia. Still, no licensed operator was named in the case, and a spokesman for the US Attorney office in the Southern District declined comment to iGB. The case carries an unusual angle because Dillon worked in law enforcement and government service for much of her career. Her LinkedIn profile says she advised the Federal Bureau of Prisons for three years before serving as an attorney in the Southern District from 2005 to 2025. Dillon also worked as deputy chief for the district white collar fraud team from 2021 to 2024. In that role, she said she led eight attorneys handling white collar fraud, health care fraud, environmental, tax, and civil rights prosecutions.Her West Virginia law licence was annulled by voluntary consent in January 2025 after the Office of Lawyer Disciplinary Counsel filed a petition in December 2024. Legal Newsline reported that the rule used for that petition works much like a plea deal, with Dillon acknowledging an investigation and potential charges she could not defend against. The case file does not explain how Dillon obtained the identities or why she used them for gambling accounts. She filed for bankruptcy in 2022, and Legal Newsline reported that case remains pending in federal court. In the plea agreement, Dillon also gave up her right to withdraw the plea if her sentence came in higher than expected. She conceded there was a “substantial likelihood” that incarceration could follow. 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) -   Michael Selig has drawn a clear line between licensed prediction markets and traditional sports betting, saying platforms such as Kalshi and Polymarket operate under a different model. Good to Know Michael Selig chairs the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. He said prediction markets and sportsbooks serve different purposes. His comments come as state gaming officials challenge federally licensed platforms. Selig now sits in a powerful position. He is the only current member of the CFTC board, which usually has five commissioners. That gives him added influence at a time when state gaming regulators and prediction market operators are clashing over sports event contracts. At the center of the fight sits a legal divide. Prediction platforms licensed by the CFTC operate under federal oversight, while sportsbooks answer to state gaming regulators. Federal law can override state law, leaving state officials with limited power unless federal intervention arrives. Selig Points To Markets Instead Of House Odds Selig told Axios that sports betting and prediction markets are “two separate things.” His argument starts with how each product treats users. He said:“They’re different models. The conventional sportsbooks and casinos are entertainment and they have a lot of authority to be able to kick people out when they keep winning. “When you go to the derivatives markets, that’s now allowed. You keep winning? Great. You take your earnings.” He also used Nate Silver as an example. Silver wrote in “On the Edge” that his betting account had been limited after he beat sportsbooks too often. Account limits can cap how much a bettor can wager, which also caps potential profit. Prediction platforms do not use the same approach for winning customers, according to Selig. He also argued that market pricing comes from real-time customer sentiment and supply and demand, rather than house-set sportsbook odds, noting:“What you’re seeing is markets versus entertainment. For those that want the discipline and integrity of a market, it’s a better model. For those that want entertainment, the casinos might be the model for them.” Kalshi and Polymarket remain central names in the wider prediction market debate. Some state officials have tried to block sports event contracts, while prediction operators have resisted those efforts and, in some cases, taken legal action. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   New York's move toward legalizing online casinos is likely to be delayed for another year, as Senator Joseph Addabbo stated that the proposal does not have enough backing to pass before the June 4 legislative deadline. Key Points New York lawmakers are not expected to vote on online casino gaming before June 4. Sen. Joseph Addabbo said Gov. Kathy Hochul remains the main obstacle. Addabbo also wants New York to regulate prediction markets instead of banning them. Senator Joseph Addabbo, who leads the Senate Racing, Gaming and Wagering Committee, noted that an online gaming bill is unlikely to undergo a committee hearing or receive a floor vote in either the Senate or Assembly before lawmakers adjourn in Albany. The Senate and Assembly could potentially approve the measure, but Addabbo emphasized that this would be meaningless without support from Governor Hochul: “We could pass it in the Senate, we could pass it in the Assembly and then the governor would probably not sign it. So I’m not going to waste anyone’s time here.”A spokesperson for Hochul provided a more restrained response in an email to Gambling.com on Monday, May 11. Gordon Tepper stated that the governor “will review any legislation that passes” both chambers. Addabbo Maintains Focus on iGaming For New York to legalize any form of casino gaming, sports betting, or related gambling, full approval from both the Senate and Assembly is required before the bill can reach the governor. Currently, Addabbo sees no clear pathway for online casino gaming in 2026. However, he does not view the issue as whether New York will eventually legalize iGaming. Instead, he sees it as a matter of timing. Addabbo plans to continue advocating for online casino gaming each year until the state takes action. During a video interview with Gambling.com program “The Edge,” Addabbo also discussed prediction markets, sports betting taxes, and prop bets.Prediction markets played a significant role in his argument. Addabbo argued that New York should establish regulations for these markets rather than attempting to prohibit them. In his opinion, regulation would allow the state to collaborate with legitimate operators, generate revenue, and provide residents with a safer alternative. “Every year that goes by that we don’t regulate prediction markets gives me more ammunition and more data and more justification to regulate it in New York,” Addabbo remarked. Additionally, Addabbo opposed a ban on prop bets, pointing out that neighboring states already permit such wagers. He warned that a prohibition would encourage New Yorkers to bet outside the state or travel across state lines. For supporters of online casino gaming in New York, the primary challenge remains securing political support. While Addabbo can keep the iGaming bill active, its passage will likely depend on clearer endorsement from Hochul and broader consensus within the Legislature. 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) -   Rush Street Interactive is monitoring prediction markets, but the parent company of BetRivers prefers to keep discussions centered on other areas. CEO Richard Schwartz explained that competitors' focus on sports event contracts provides Rush Street with greater flexibility to expand its online casino offerings. Key Points Rush Street has not yet entered the prediction market sector. The company views the legalization of online casino as its most promising near-term opportunity. Alberta, Virginia, Maine, New York, and Illinois are among its top expansion priorities. Following closely behind is Alberta, where Rush Street anticipates joining over 30 operators when both sports betting and iGaming launch on July 13. The company revised its revenue guidance upward by $115 million and adjusted the midpoint by $20 million, while also forecasting a $10 million cost impact related to the launch and marketing efforts. Kyle Sauers, president of Rush Street, noted that lessons learned from Ontario will prove valuable, even amid a highly competitive market on day one. He stated: “We’ll remain flexible and consider additional investments if conditions in Alberta perform well. Thanks to our experience in Ontario, we believe we’re better prepared for this launch compared to our entry into Ontario—though it will certainly be competitive, as numerous operators are launching simultaneously.“We’re very enthusiastic about the Alberta opportunity.” Online Casino Takes Center Stage Rush Street perceives a strategic opening within U.S. politics. The emergence of prediction markets through Kalshi and Polymarket, along with similar products from FanDuel, DraftKings, and Fanatics, has introduced increased uncertainty regarding future sports betting revenues. Schwartz believes this environment strengthens the case for regulated online casino. “While others are preoccupied with their sports betting operations and must allocate significant financial resources and leadership attention to them, we’re concentrating on executing and innovating further in the casino-first space,” Schwartz remarked. “This actually gives us a strong advantage to help pass online casino legislation in certain states that fear losing perceived sports betting revenues and face uncertainty about that revenue stream’s future.” Virginia nearly approved iGaming in 2026 after legislative chambers passed bills, but disagreements between the House and Senate delayed final approval, pushing it to 2027. Nonetheless, Sauers still described Virginia as a “significant market” and likened its potential to Michigan, where Rush Street is “approaching a $300 million GGR run rate.”Maine already enacted online casino legalization in 2026, though litigation has temporarily stalled implementation. Rush Street intends to remain “actively involved” in the state once the legal challenge concludes. New York and Illinois continue to represent major objectives. Schwartz highlighted that federal Medicaid changes could prompt states to seek alternative tax sources, with online casino offering a proven solution. He added: “States such as New York and Illinois may see even larger surpluses in this sector, and they recognize that online casinos provide a reliable, substantial means of generating significant tax revenue. Consider Michigan—over the past five years, they’ve generated billions in revenue, representing a transformative contribution to all these states’ finances.” Rush Street continues to hold plans for entering prediction markets. Schwartz emphasized that while the company closely monitors the federally regulated landscape, it will only act when the opportunity aligns with its strategy: “For now, Rush Street remains on the sidelines regarding prediction market ventures, but we’ll never be unprepared. We continuously monitor developments and maintain readiness strategies. Should a suitable opportunity arise, we’ll move forward.” Player retention remains central to the casino strategy. Schwartz stressed that customers remain loyal when operators treat them respectfully, deliver enjoyable and unique experiences, and demonstrate genuine care in product development. 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) -   Ontario online gamblers now have one tool to block themselves from every provincially regulated betting, casino, and poker site in the province. Good to Know BetGuard is live in Ontario in English and French. Self exclusion takes about five minutes to complete. More than 75 regulated iGaming sites fall under the system. BetGuard went live Thursday morning through iGaming Ontario. The new self exclusion site lets Ontarians create an account, verify their identity, and remove access to all regulated online gambling platforms for longer periods. Once enrolled, a person cannot log in to existing accounts or open new ones with Ontario regulated operators. Those operators must also stop sending marketing to anyone on the BetGuard list. Ontario Tourism, Culture, and Gaming Minister Stan Cho said:“The Ontario government is committed to responsible gambling. As online gaming continues to grow in popularity, the launch of BetGuard is an important step forward in helping people play safely and responsibly across more than 75 regulated sites.” One Ban Across The Regulated Market Make the safer choice and play on sites offered by legal and regulated Operators in Ontario. Look for the iGaming Ontario logo, so you can #PlayWithConfidence. pic.twitter.com/o3UqL27P6i — iGaming Ontario (@iGamingOntario) April 12, 2023 Ontario already required each operator to offer self exclusion. However, a player blocked from one site could still use another. BetGuard closes that gap across more than 40 authorized operators and more than 70 sports betting, casino, and poker sites. iGaming Ontario CEO Joseph Hillier said: “BetGuard is designed with one simple principle in mind: If you need to take a break from the entire regulated iGaming market, you can. Player choice is key to the sustainability of our market, and that includes the choice to opt out.” The system uses real time API checks. Operators do not send their own self exclusion lists to BetGuard, and BetGuard does not share its full list back. Instead, operators can check whether a user appears in the system, then block logins, new registrations, and marketing. iGaming Ontario built BetGuard over more than a year with DataWorks Group, formerly IXUP, Integrity Compliance 360, and Ontario regulated operators. The design follows Australia BetStop program. The tool arrives in a large regulated market. Ontario operators have handled billions in wagers, while the province received about $262 million in tax revenue for the fiscal year ended March 31. Since 2018, Ontario has also spent more than $420 million on gambling education, awareness, and responsible gambling programs.Paul Burns, CEO of the Canadian Gaming Association, said the industry supports a central system. “It has been something the industry has been long looking and waiting for, and we are grateful, because this really delivers on the promise of regulated gaming. This is a real demonstration of what that means in terms of consumer protection.” BetGuard is the first tool of its kind in Canada. Alberta plans to open a competitive sports betting and iGaming market on July 13 and wants centralized self exclusion ready from day one. Hillier also wants BetGuard to cover all regulated gambling in Ontario later, including land based casinos, charitable gaming, and horse racing. Horse racing creates extra complexity because wagering falls under federal regulation. He added: “It’s really a matter of time and technical complexity.” 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) -   Polymarket has entered into a partnership with Serie A in the United States, expanding its prediction market offerings to include another top-tier soccer league. Good to Know Polymarket will serve as the exclusive U.S. platform for Serie A prediction markets. The agreement includes access to official Serie A data. Major League Soccer and La Liga are already partnered with Polymarket. Serie A has appointed Polymarket as its Regional Partner in the United States, granting the prediction market platform access to official league data and branding opportunities across U.S. media and digital outlets. This collaboration follows previous agreements between Polymarket and Major League Soccer and La Liga, which were established earlier this year. Rather than diversifying into other sports, Polymarket continues to focus on soccer, real-time fan engagement, and live match-based prediction markets. Serie A Expands Reach to U.S. Fans via Polymarket Lega Serie A views the United States as a key growth market, and Polymarket provides the league with a way to connect with younger audiences who seek more than just scores and highlights.Michele Ciccarese, marketing and commercial director of Lega Serie A, commented: “Our exclusive partnership with Polymarket as Regional Partner in the USA allows us to engage a new generation of fans through a platform that reflects evolving trends. It offers an interactive, real-time experience built on insights and participation, fully aligned with their expectations.” Shayne Coplan, founder and CEO of Polymarket, stated: “Prediction markets empower fans to actively interpret the game in real time, and our partnership with Serie A brings this innovative model to one of the world’s most popular leagues—especially at a time when interest in soccer is surging across America.” 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.