分類: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) -   Wisconsin has introduced new ethics guidelines for employees in the state's executive branch, as prediction markets expand across the United States. Key Points Gov. Tony Evers signed Executive Order #294 on Thursday. The order restricts the use of nonpublic government information in prediction markets. No insider trading cases involving state workers have been reported in Wisconsin. Gov. Tony Evers issued the order to safeguard public trust and prevent government staff from leveraging their positions for personal financial benefit. The rule does not prohibit all prediction market activities by state employees, but it prevents them from using confidential information to gain financially. Executive Order Addresses Use of Insider Information The order applies to all employees within Wisconsin’s executive branch of government. It also extends to individuals who assist spouses, family members, or others in benefiting from prediction market trades. The order states:“All Wisconsin state executive branch employees are strictly prohibited from disclosing or using any nonpublic information obtained due to their public service to personally profit from, avoid loss from, or assist another person or entity, including spouses and family members, in profiting or avoiding loss from participation in prediction markets. Any violation of this order may result in dismissal, referral to the Wisconsin Ethics Commission, or other appropriate sanctions and may be referred to law enforcement.” Wisconsin already required public officials to adhere to standards promoting transparency and integrity. Prediction markets have introduced a new concern because contracts can involve politics, policy, sports, economics, and other events where government workers may access information before it becomes publicly available. Evers stated: “Preserving public trust and confidence in our state government depends on transparency, accountability, integrity, and upholding the core principle of public service—that decisions must serve the public good and not the personal interests of any individual worker.”Prediction markets operate in every U.S. state. One survey found that 15% of Americans have purchased sports-related prediction contracts, indicating potential broader use in other areas as well. The Wisconsin order takes preventive action ahead of any confirmed issues. State officials have not identified any instances of insider trading or suspicious activity by government employees connected to prediction markets. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Asian gamblers are flocking to the subtropical South Korean island province of Jeju, driving a top casino operator to post record-breaking quarterly profits. Share prices in Lotte Tour Development surged by over 7% on May 14 following the company’s announcement of all-time-high quarterly operating profits of nearly $105 million. This represents a year-on-year increase of 2.5 times in profit growth, according to Star News, a South Korean media outlet. Growth has been fueled by rising casino revenues and increased visitor numbers, both up approximately 40% compared to the same period last year. Unnamed industry experts told the outlet that the hold rate at the firm’s flagship property, the Jeju Dream Tower Resort, reached 22.6% in April. This figure places the casino close to the performance level of some of Asia’s leading venues. The experts noted that the average hold rate for major casinos in Macao’s Cotai district stood at 26.1% in 2025. They added that these Macao casinos continue to deliver among the highest returns globally. Hotel occupancy during the off-season also improved, with foreign guest arrivals increasing. It is important to note that all casinos on Jeju Island admit only foreign passport holders. Lotte Tour Development share prices on the Korea Exchange over the past five days. (Image: Google Finance) Asian Gamblers Head for Jeju? The casino operator reported that concerns about global conflicts and potential economic downturns have not impacted its income performance. “Despite worries surrounding the situation in the Middle East and the challenges posed by the off-season, we have demonstrated explosive profit growth alongside record-high sales in the first quarter,” stated a spokesperson for Lotte Tour Development. “As the tourism season approaches, we anticipate this year’s annual results will show a significant leap forward,” the spokesperson added. In 2023, more than 2.24 million foreign tourists visited Jeju Island—an increase of 18% from 2022. Chinese travelers accounted for over two-thirds of international visitors as total tourist numbers approached 14 million. In response, the South Korean government approved plans to construct a second international airport. The new terminal in Seogwipo will be substantially larger than Jeju International Airport. Officials confirmed the project in 2024, noting that the new facility will include a runway capable of accommodating large aircraft such as the 853-seat Airbus A380. Police Issue Warning The rise in gambling activity on Jeju has sparked complaints about a surge in crime. Several murders have occurred at hotels located near casinos on the island, with police indicating that most involve Chinese nationals. Detectives also report that illegal currency exchanges are targeting Chinese gamblers in Jeju. Many of these unregulated operators claim they can assist casino winners in transferring funds back to Mainland China. However, law enforcement warns that some of these exchanges are operated by fraudsters who steal clients’ money. 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) -   Colorado and Arizona both reported declines in sports betting handle for March. Despite the drops, revenue remained strong as sportsbook hold increased. Arizona saw residents wager a total of $836.9 million on sports in the month, down from $887 million last year, a 5.7% decrease, as reported by the state’s Division of Gaming. Hold, however, was 9.27%, leading to revenue of $70.85 million. After free bet deductions, the state collected $4.8 million in tax revenue, almost double the $2.5 million collected in March 2025. In Colorado, it was a similar story. The betting handle fell from $618 million to $560.9 million, a 9% decline. Yet, similarly, the state collected double the tax revenue, up from $2.16 million to $4.39 million. March Madness Results Drive Hold Increase Last year, March Madness saw several top seeds advance deep into the tournament, which led to high payouts for bettors. The month had an unusually low hold across the board for sportsbooks of around 6%. This year, however, results were more sportsbook-friendly with strongly fancied teams such as Florida, Wisconsin, and Kansas suffering upset defeats. These would have been parlay busters for many bettors. In Arizona, the Wildcats would have been well-backed to go all the way, but disappointed Arizonans in the Final Four. The team also failed to cover some large point spreads as the tournament progressed, leading to losses for fans backing them to win big. Sportsbooks across the industry have been trending toward 9-10% hold as they increasingly focus on parlays to drive revenue. Is Handle Drop a Trend or Blip? The concern for states such as Colorado and Arizona is that sports prediction markets are eating into their betting handles. Arizona has been particularly aggressive in pursuing operators, claiming they run illegal betting sites and fail to pay state taxes. Kalshi saw almost $14 billion in volume in March, compared to just $1.2 billion last year. The company was just launching into sports in 2025 and has significantly expanded its market reach and advertising this year. Sportsbooks continue to claim they are not seeing a significant impact from users shifting to prediction markets. In both Colorado and Arizona, around 99% of all sports wagers were placed online. States with no legal online sports betting are likely to see the highest activity. New Mexico tribes filed a lawsuit this week against Kalshi to protect sports betting in the state, which is legal only through in-person wagers at tribal casinos. Colorado Lawmakers Pass Bill Restricting Sportsbooks While states with restrictive markets, such as New Mexico, are likely to see residents turn to prediction markets, lawmakers also want to control what many see as a predatory industry. In Colorado, the legislature approved a bill that imposes a range of restrictions on sportsbooks. Bill S26-131 aims to offer users “protections against abusive practices in sports betting.” The legislation would prohibit betting companies from: Accepting more than 6 separate deposits from an individual in a single day Initiating or sending push notifications or text messages to account holders soliciting bets or deposits Targeting or creating advertising content that is clearly meant for persons under 21 years old Accepting credit card deposits Author of the book “Everybody Loses: The Tumultuous Rise of American Sports Gambling”, former Colorado resident Danny Funt told CasinoBeats that the state has made many mistakes in regulating sports betting. Initially, it was liberal in issuing licenses, but most companies went out of business or left the state. It remains to be seen whether the changes included in this new bill will have a positive effect. It is also difficult to tell what a positive effect would be. For some, a higher betting handle suggests a thriving market; for others, it shows there are not enough checks and balances on betting companies. 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 Buffalo Sabres are set to host the Montreal Canadiens in Game 5 of the NHL Eastern Conference semifinals this evening. The game begins at 7 p.m. ET and will be broadcast live on TNT and truTV. We’ve compiled all the key odds, predictions, and picks for you. DraftKings has the Sabres as a -122 favorite at home, with a total set at 5.5. While 53% of the moneyline wagers are on the Canadiens, 63% of ticket sales favor Buffalo. Best Bet: Canadiens vs. Sabres OVER 5.5 (-130) With the series level at 2-2, Buffalo now holds home-ice advantage. They secured a 3-2 victory in Montreal on Tuesday to tie the series. Three out of the first four games have gone over the total of 5.5. In the most recent matchup, when the total was set at 6.5, the UNDER was hit for the first time. This series continues to feature high-scoring action, with ample offensive chances for both teams. Montreal fired 31 shots on goal against Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, who replaced Alex Lyon in net for Buffalo during Game 4. Luukkonen, who is expected to start again tonight, may once again face a heavy barrage of shots. We’ll see if he can rise to the occasion. Overall, his postseason performance hasn’t been strong, posting a 3.37 goals-against average and .870 save percentage across three starts. Offensively, Buffalo has regained effectiveness on the power play. The Sabres scored with man-advantage goals from Tage Thompson and Zach Benson in Game 4. They are now 5-for-16 on the power play against the Canadiens. Pick: OVER 5.5 (-130) Best Player Prop for Montreal Canadiens Cole Caufield OVER 0.5 Goals (+175) Cole Caufield (seen above competing with Alex Ovechkin) delivered with a goal in Game 4. It might finally be his turn after scoring in consecutive games. Prior to that stretch, he had gone five straight games without finding the back of the net. Expect Montreal to come out aggressively tonight, and for their top scoring threat to make an impact again in Game 5. Best Player Prop for Buffalo Sabres Josh Doan OVER 0.5 Points (-115) Josh Doan has emerged as the primary playmaker against the Canadiens. He enters tonight’s game riding a five-game point-scoring streak. Five of Doan’s six points against Montreal have come as assists, highlighted by two helpers in Game 4. Additionally, he has recorded at least one assist in every game so far against the Habs. It would not be surprising to see him contribute again in Game 5. 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 code of good practice for prize draw operators will be introduced in the UK next week. However, before its implementation, these competitions are under fire for allegedly failing to provide participants with protections comparable to those found in regulated gambling. Under current UK law, prize draws are not considered gambling if they include a free-to-enter option. As a result, operators do not need a license to run contests offering prizes ranging from cars and homes to holidays and cash. The UK government previously described the sector as one where “prize draws are a significant and growing market.” Research from 2023 indicated that the UK prize draw market generates annual revenue of £1.3 billion, involving 7.4 million adult players and over 400 operators. What is the New Code? Companies may voluntarily adopt the new code, which must be fully implemented by May 20. It includes several key provisions: Age Restrictions: Operators must restrict participation to individuals aged 18 or older and implement age verification measures. Spending Caps: Credit card payments should be limited to a maximum of £250 per month per player. Harm Monitoring: Operators are expected to make “reasonable efforts” to monitor user activity for signs of compulsive behavior and offer tools such as “cooling-off” periods or account suspensions. Transparency on Odds: When feasible, operators should disclose the likelihood of winning (for example, by stating the maximum number of entries available). Free Route Prominence: The “free entry” method must be presented as prominently as paid entry options, ensuring it remains a genuine alternative rather than an obscure workaround. Close to 200 companies have signed up, including major operators such as Omaze, BOTB, and Raffle House. An Omaze spokesperson stated that the adoption of the code represented a “positive step toward raising standards across the industry.” The company emphasized that it has long been committed to customer safety practices and expressed pride that many of its existing safeguards are now formally included in the sector-wide code. Free Entry or Pay Hundreds of Pounds One Omaze competition offers the chance to win a £3.5 million ($4.7 million) house along with £250,000 in cash. Although users can enter the contest at no cost, they also have multiple paid options that increase their chances of winning. We contacted the company for further details about its policies and how the voluntary code would affect them. Instead of a direct response, we were added to their marketing email list and received an automated message featuring an “epic” winner’s story. Omaze house competition The company promotes itself as a mutually beneficial model: for every competition, it pledges to donate £1 million to charity. This means that even if participants do not win the grand prize, they still contribute to charitable causes. Critics argue that the amount donated represents only a small portion of the total funds raised and suggest that people who wish to support charities should give directly rather than through third-party platforms. “Omaze isn’t a scam. It’s more depressing than that,” wrote a critical Substack author back in 2023. The criticism centers on what they describe as “the implication that we need an incentive to act charitably, to act kindly, to help people, animals, the planet.” Harm Monitoring Insufficient, Claims Addict Others have raised concerns about inadequate safeguards against individuals who engage compulsively in prize draw games. The BBC highlighted the case of Lisa, a self-described prize draw addict who accumulated thousands of pounds in debt due to her involvement in these competitions. “You win £20 credit and £30 instant win prizes, and it keeps you going and feeling, ‘Oh, this is fun.’ It’s like when you play a slot machine,” she explained. She admitted to investing “everything” she had into her habit—mirroring patterns commonly reported by gambling addicts. “It looks like a real grey area that’s being exploited,” said Dr. Matt Gaskell, a consultant at the NHS Northern Gambling Service. “It’s becoming something that more and more staff are mentioning. That’s why we think there needs to be tougher laws and regulations,” he added. Similar calls for stricter oversight have emerged within the broader gambling industry, where companies have faced accusations of intentionally fostering problem gambling and neglecting player protection. The UK government has indicated that should this voluntary self-regulation prove ineffective in reducing harm, it may pursue formal legislation to bring the prize draw sector under the scope of the Gambling Act. 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 government of Hong Kong is set to bring pinball and claw machines under the jurisdiction of its gambling laws. The Hong Kong Home and Youth Affairs Bureau has submitted a proposal to the Legislative Council, advocating for the implementation of a mandatory device licensing system. This would limit the number of arcades permitted to operate pinball and claw machines and require licensed venues to undergo regular supervisory checks. If these establishments are required to comply with Hong Kong’s Gambling Ordinance, any arcade offering prize-based entertainment games may need to obtain similar permits. Legislative Council member Kwok Fu-yung recently received numerous complaints from parents regarding pinball and claw machine centers. She noted that some businesses have opened near tutoring centers to attract young students, according to reports from China.com, a Chinese media outlet. A player uses a pinball machine in a Hong Kong arcade. (Image: @babee_channel/YouTube/Screenshot) A Pinball Craze Sweeps Through Hong Kong, Prompting Regulatory Action In 2022, the Hong Kong High Court ruled that ordinary claw machines do not qualify as "entertainment devices" under current law and therefore do not require special permits. However, despite increased scrutiny and enforcement across Asia on claw machine centers, Hong Kong has seen a surge in popularity of pinball machines, prompting regulatory intervention. While many claw machine arcades across Hong Kong report low customer traffic, pinball arcades are increasingly appearing in shopping malls—particularly those located near schools. After school hours, these pinball centers are often filled with young patrons wearing school uniforms, according to the media outlet. Many popular pinball machines in Hong Kong award points to players who successfully land balls in designated holes. These points can be redeemed for prizes such as figurines, game consoles, and even high-end mobile phones. Tang Ka-piu, Chairman of the Legislative Council’s Committee on Home Affairs, Culture and Sports, described the existing regulatory framework as overly "lenient." He pointed out that current rules allow centers to bypass age verification and impose no restrictions on operating hours. Wider Crackdown on Claw Machines Across Asia Tang explained that the proposed measures aim to balance support for local businesses with public concerns about the machines' potential impact. The bureau emphasized its commitment to preventing what it calls "hidden gambling" and protecting young people from developing gambling addictions. Last year, Thailand reclassified claw machines as "gambling equipment," warning that unlicensed operators could face up to two years in prison. Similarly, South Korea—which had nearly 6,000 unstaffed claw machine centers as of August last year—has seen the number of such establishments grow by over 15% in just two years. South Korean high school students have told media they view the machines as a form of gambling, with some admitting to losing more than $100 in just 30 minutes at unstaffed centers. 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 governor of Japan’s Aichi Prefecture has announced plans to build a major integrated casino-resort (IR) on an artificial island in hopes of establishing an international tourism hub. However, the chances of success may be slim. According to the Japanese newspaper Mainichi Shimbun, Aichi Governor Hideaki Omura stated that the resort would serve as an “international tourism hub.” The proposed site is located adjacent to Chubu Centrair International Airport, near the city of Nagoya. Chubu operates flights to various Asian destinations, including Beijing, Seoul, Taipei, Manila, Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Shanghai. Japanese Governor’s IR Dream As the gambling market in Asia continues to expand, Tokyo has identified the IR sector as a key growth driver for the future. The central government intends to approve three IR projects nationwide, with provinces required to submit their applications by the end of 2027. However, opposition from local residents and anti-gambling advocates has led to a slow response. So far, Tokyo has approved only one IR project: MGM Osaka, scheduled to open in 2030. Aichi had initially considered submitting a bid in 2019 but suspended its efforts due to the coronavirus pandemic. This year, however, Omura and his administration decided to revive the plan. Last month, the prefecture set a July 31 deadline for potential operators to submit bids. Aichi aims to select a preferred operator between autumn 2026 and spring 2027. Mainichi reported that since April, Aichi officials have been reviewing proposals from several operators. A popular tourist attraction in Nagoya, Japan. (Image: Goh Win Nie) Why Does Aichi Want to Build a Casino-Resort? Omura’s initiative is reportedly driven by three main factors. First, no other regions besides Osaka have submitted proposals, meaning that if Aichi develops a strong plan before next year, it could face little resistance in gaining approval. Second, attracting international tourists is a significant incentive for Aichi. The prefecture receives fewer foreign visitors compared to other major cities in Japan. An increase in tourism, Omura believes, could help revitalize the local economy, which has suffered from population decline in recent years. Lastly, Aichi is seeking stable funding sources. Officials expect revenue from the IR to provide substantial financial support, which could be used to develop medical and welfare policies. Nevertheless, success remains uncertain, according to the newspaper. Experts predict prolonged increases in construction materials and costs due to the “unstable international situation.” This, along with other factors, has contributed to a “significant rise” in expenses related to Osaka’s IR project, they say. Therefore, concerns persist within Aichi about whether reputable domestic or overseas businesses will be willing to undertake the “enormous initial investment” required to build an IR in the region. 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 Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), a leading U.S. financial regulator, announced its collaboration with Major League Baseball and other major sports leagues to combat insider trading in prediction markets. The agency pledged to partner with sports organizations to identify suspicious trading activities and take action against attempts to manipulate sports-related contracts on platforms such as Kalshi and Polymarket. The CFTC has already established a memorandum of understanding with MLB, according to the agency’s chairman Michael Selig. Selig made the announcement during this year’s Financial Industry Regulatory Authority conference, as reported by CoinDesk. “We are currently engaged in discussions with all professional sports leagues,” Selig added. Selig also rejected claims that sports prediction markets were merely a modern version of casino gambling. “These are distinct products governed by parallel regulatory frameworks,” he stated. CFTC: Insider Trading Will Be Prosecuted Selig has been vocal about regulating prediction markets. Earlier this month, he responded publicly to critics in a letter to the Wall Street Journal, refuting allegations that insider trading is widespread on these platforms. “Claims that our insider trading rules are less defined than others are entirely false,” he wrote. “The CFTC remains a vigilant overseer of prediction markets.” He cautioned that efforts to “drive regulation out” could push prediction markets offshore, where they would operate without oversight or standards. “These markets deliver substantial benefits to individuals, businesses, and the broader economy,” Selig emphasized. “We are committed to maintaining their integrity and supporting their growth.” His remarks followed an op-ed in the Wall Street Journal that characterized prediction market contracts as “old-fashioned betting.” The article noted that approximately 90% of activity on Kalshi is related to sports. An MLB game held at Bristol Motor Speedway in Tennessee. (Image: Brycenrichter) Regulator Set to Clash With States The CFTC is preparing for conflict with state governments. Lawmakers across several U.S. states continue advancing legislation aimed at banning prediction markets. Earlier this month, Minnesota legislators approved a bill prohibiting various forms of prediction market activity, including those tied to sports. Additionally, multiple tribes in New Mexico have filed a lawsuit against Kalshi, alleging the platform violates Indian gaming law by offering illegal gambling services. Nevada has taken even stronger measures: in March, the state successfully obtained a court order that temporarily halted Kalshi’s operations in Nevada. This ban was upheld and extended by a Nevada court last month. The CFTC has signaled it will challenge states attempting similar restrictions. Selig warned that the agency would pursue legal action against any state seeking to ban prediction markets without federal approval. “Under the Commodity Exchange Act, the CFTC holds exclusive jurisdiction over prediction markets,” Selig wrote. “While some may express skepticism toward innovative financial instruments, we remain steadfast in defending our authority and protecting it.” The Long-Term Outlook Last year, gaming consultancy Eilers & Krejcik projected that sports contracts would represent 44% of total volume on prediction markets over the long term. The firm also forecasted that annual trading volumes could reach $1 trillion by the end of 2029. Earlier this week, the New York Times reported that 80 accounts on Polymarket had exhibited suspicious betting behavior over the past two years. The newspaper noted that these account holders had profited significantly from “dozens” of longshot bets, earning hundreds of thousands of dollars in cryptocurrency. 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 UFC is forging more sponsorship agreements with prediction markets, while Dana White claims President Donald Trump is failing traditional sports betting. Coinciding with Kalshi's announcement of a deal with Nate Diaz, White dispatched a letter to Trump pressing the President to reverse tax modifications affecting gamblers. Kalshi stated its arrangement with Diaz covers sponsorship of his fight shorts, billboards, and a joint social media campaign. Diaz is slated to display Kalshi branding during his comeback fight against Mike Perry this weekend. Kalshi Deal Follows UFC-Polymarket Collaboration This Kalshi-Diaz partnership comes after the UFC declared last November that competing platform Polymarket had become its “Official and Exclusive Prediction Market Partner.” “Kalshi stepped up and showed love and support for me for this fight and my brand overall,” Diaz commented. “It’s good to be in business with them.” “Nate Diaz ranks among the most genuine and fearless competitors in sports,” stated Valeria Vouterakou, counsel at Kalshi. “He is precisely the type of representative we want for our brand.” Prediction markets are securing a growing number of partnerships with sports leagues, teams, and athletes. Beyond the UFC, these firms have allied with MLS, NHL, FIFA, MLB, and, most recently, LIV Golf. UFC Relies on Betting, Says White In his letter to Trump, White asserted that betting is vital to the UFC's survival, notwithstanding several prominent betting controversies. White is urging the President to repeal the gambling tax adjustment enacted as part of Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act last year. The new regulations permit bettors to offset just 90% of their losses against their winnings before being taxed on the balance. While some legislators have pushed to overturn the rule, Trump has hesitated to endorse a rollback. White argued the new policy endangers Trump's “no tax on tips” stance because “gamblers will probably be less generous, if they wager at all.” He further stated the change “renders betting in the United States illogical, as you might owe taxes despite losing or face a tax bill higher than your annual winnings.” “The UFC backs a robust, legal sports betting market to boost fan engagement, broadcast value, and sponsorships,” White wrote in the letter, which was noted by prediction markets analyst Dustin Gouker. “Discouraging legal betting damages the ecosystem we have built over years alongside state regulators and licensed operators. It also weakens the transparency and integrity safeguards that legal betting offers professional sports,” White said. Betting Scandals & Rule Change Impact UFC The UFC has recently experienced a drop in betting volume, potentially due to the tax change or recent betting scandals. “We’ve observed a recent decline in the handle and betting activity for the UFC,” noted Borgata Race & Sportsbook Director Thomas Gable. “It’s probably a mix of factors, with integrity concerns being one of them.” Worries about unusual betting patterns re-emerged around the Sean Brady vs. Joaquin Buckley bout at UFC 328 on Saturday. Pre-fight odds shifted significantly to establish Buckley as the favorite, even though he was the underdog beforehand. However, unlike recent matches featuring Isaac Dulgarian and Michael Johnson, the Brady fight proceeded as scheduled. The heavy betting on Buckley was misleading, as he lost decisively. Tax Change Could Strengthen Prediction Markets Although detractors of prediction markets contend they heighten risks of match-fixing and insider trading, the UFC seems untroubled, as it and fighters like Diaz partner with these operators. The tax hike does not affect profits from prediction markets, since they are not formally classified as gambling. White worries the tax amendment will deter bettors from wagering on the UFC or drive them toward unregulated sites. It may also push gamblers toward prediction markets. Under current rules, if you gained $5,000 on a prediction market and lost $5,000, your tax liability would be $0 because you can net the amounts as capital losses. Performing the same activity at a sportsbook would leave you taxed on $500 (the 10% of losses now non-deductible). A recent survey indicates that bettors still favor sportsbooks, citing DraftKings' overall wagering experience as making it the top platform. This preference may shift, however, as Kalshi increases its sports advertising through sponsorships like the one with Diaz. 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 Mayor of Burr Ridge, Illinois, Gary Grasso, has defended the indicted restaurant owner of Capri Filippo “Gigi” Rovito, Jr. Rovito is one of 22 named in an illegal gambling ring accused of operating a betting business and extorting individuals with gambling debts. The 52-year-old was charged with four counts of extortion last month. According to the indictment, he attempted to collect gambling debts from an unnamed victim. Prosecutors say James Gerodemos, the alleged ringleader of the group, promised Gigi half of the victim’s $30,000 debt if he could successfully collect the money. “FILIPPO ROVITO said he was going to knock VICTIM 2’s lights out and shove his head into a machine,” states the indictment. Mayor Has Dish Named After Him At “Nuts” Rovito’s Restaurant Mayor Grasso has a dish named after him at Capri, Linguini alla Mayor Grasso. He said he frequently dines there with his wife and defended Rovito’s right to continue operating the business. “To my knowledge, there is no specific allegation that Gigi actually threatened or physically harmed anyone,” the Mayor wrote in a letter to the people of Burr Ridge. “There is hearsay about it though. The allegation, so far, as to Gigi is that he is part of this illegal gambling activity in Indiana (not acceptable if true) and that ‘someone said that Gigi said’ he would harm the gambler for not paying his debt.” The indictment states that Gerodemos described Rovito as “nuts.” As the Mayor notes in his letter, Rovito is a convicted double-felon. In 1997, he was sentenced to six years in prison for the sexual assault of a 14-year-old, which added to a six-year sentence for delivery of a controlled substance. Usually, convicted felons are not granted liquor licenses in Illinois, but the Mayor made an exception in Rovito’s case. He claims he “met the standards for rehabilitation under state law.” The license has caused controversy and led to a confrontation at the restaurant. Burr Ridge Village Trustee Zach Mottl, a political rival of Grasso, allegedly questioned how Rovito could gain a license as a convicted felon. “How does a felon get a liquor license?” Mottl said, according to a police report. Rovito responded, “You need an ass beating.” Mayor and Rovito Have Longstanding Ties The Mayor, a qualified attorney, also wrote in his letter that he has defended Rovito in two previous lawsuits against the restaurateur. “Yes, I also represented Gigi in two civil lawsuits where I thought he was wronged; and did so successfully because he was not responsible. It’s still America, isn’t it?” the Mayor wrote. Rovito contributed $5,000 to Grasso’s ill-fated campaign for attorney general in 2018. Grasso returned the money after the contribution became controversial. In 2022, a complaint was filed with the FEC alleging that Rovito had funneled illegal “straw donor” contributions to Grasso’s congressional campaign. The complaint alleged Rovito used his wife and employees to make $11,600 in maximum-limit contributions. The case was later dismissed for lack of evidence. Rovito Allegedly Part of Al Capone Mafia Group Rovito has embraced alleged ties to the mafia and has built a following of over 250,000 on social media. A recent Instagram post shows him with Sopranos actor Joseph R. Gannascoli. Filippo ‘Gigi’ Rovito (right) Img: @capribygigi on Instagram Alongside Linguini alla Mayor Grasso, Capri’s menu also features Wise Guy Meatballs and Chicken “Forget About It.” An article in the Gangster Report last year names Rovito as an alleged member of the Cicero Crew, the Chicago-based criminal organization started by Al Capone. Capri Restaurant was allegedly the scene of a gang fight between the Cicero Crew and Latin Kings in March last year. The report does not say Rovito was involved in the fight, and it is unclear if it is connected to the indictment unsealed last month. Federal court records also show Rovito was allegedly paid to administer a “thorough beating” to a used car dealer who defaulted on a private loan in 2013. Records show Michael “Mickey” Davis gave Rovito a $5,000 down payment for the beating, ultimately promising a total of “10,000 clams.” The FBI then intervened before the debtor was physically harmed, and Rovito was not charged in the case. In the illegal gambling case, Rovito has been released on a $1 million bond. “For now, he is out on bond and presumed innocent until otherwise proved,” stressed Mayor Grasso. Gerodemos remains in police custody as the investigation continues, while his brother, Chris, has also been released on a $1 million bond. The group allegedly made $5 million in proceeds from their illegal gambling business. 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) -   Instagram has introduced Instants globally, offering users a fresh way to share brief, private photos with close friends or mutual followers. Good to Know Instants can be viewed once and remain accessible for 24 hours. Users must capture photos using the Instagram camera and cannot upload images from their camera roll. Recipients are unable to take screenshots or record shared Instants, as confirmed by Meta. Instagram Develops a More Private Photo Sharing Tool Instagram aims to bring back more casual photo sharing within its platform. Instants emphasizes fast, unedited pictures rather than curated posts, influencer content, or advertisements. The feature activates through the Instagram inbox. Users tap the small stack of photos in the bottom right corner, take a photo using the in-app camera, add text if desired, and send it. There are no filters, edits, or options to upload from the phone’s gallery. Meta stated that this format allows people to share moments as they occur. Once an Instant is sent to friends, they can respond with emojis, reply, or send an Instant back. Control options are also integrated into the feature. Users can use "undo" after sending, and deleting an Instant from the private archive will unsend it before recipients open it. Instagram retains shared Instants in that archive for up to one year, and users can convert saved Instants into a Stories recap. Those who do not wish to receive Instants can press and hold the pile in the inbox and swipe right to pause them. They can also mute or block specific users. Say hi to Instants A new way to share in-the-moment pics with friends. Tap the mini pile of photos at the bottom right corner of your DMs to try it yourself Rolling out today. pic.twitter.com/zbhsOA9O9m — Instagram (@instagram) May 13, 2026 As evident, Instants draws inspiration from Snapchat, Locket, and BeReal, featuring one-time viewing, 24-hour availability, and a focus on real-life updates. Meta is also testing Instants as a standalone app in Spain and Italy. However, timing may present challenges. BeReal has seen declining interest since its peak, and Instagram Stories already provides a quick method for informal updates. Still, Instagram Instants offers another private photo-sharing option for close friends, mutual followers, disappearing photos, authentic moments, inbox sharing, and social media updates. 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) -   X has updated its iOS app to help users easily locate content they want to revisit, introducing a private History section that collects videos watched, articles read, posts liked, and items saved in one centralized location. Good to Know The Bookmarks menu button has been renamed to History. The new page now includes tabs for Bookmarks, Likes, Videos, and Articles. Videos and Articles are automatically added based on user activity, not just manual saves. X Transforms Saved Content Into a More Comprehensive Discovery Tool The new History tab offers X users a browser-like browsing trail. Instead of only bookmarking posts by hand, users can now access videos and articles they’ve already viewed or read while scrolling through their feed. Nikita Bier, head of product at X, described the iOS update as a more effective way for users to keep track of favorite content and return to unfinished posts, videos, or articles later. X emphasizes that this feature remains private and is only visible to the user. The redesign also reduces friction by consolidating previously separated features. Previously, Likes were tucked inside the user profile, while Bookmarks were located in the main mobile menu. Now, both Likes and Bookmarks appear alongside automatically tracked Videos and Articles in the History tab. For X, the Articles section may hold greater significance. The platform has promoted longer-form content as a valuable tool for businesses, creators, and publishers who need more space than the standard 280-character post allows. This development comes amid declining referral traffic from major platforms like Facebook and Google, where algorithm updates and AI-driven answers have reduced external website clicks. By integrating reading, video viewing, content discovery, creator posts, social media bookmarks, and X Articles into a single interface, X aims to keep users engaged within its ecosystem. 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 has expanded into the digital gaming sector with the launch of Okada Play, a new online platform developed in collaboration with PhilWeb Corp., a publicly traded gaming technology company based in the Philippines. Key Facts Okada Play operates on PhilWeb's dedicated online gaming platform. Tiger Resort, Leisure and Entertainment Inc. manages operations at Okada Manila. The launch follows an earlier partnership announcement made in March. Okada Play offers casino-style games, advanced platform technology, and reliable customer support within the regulated online gaming market in the Philippines. According to PhilWeb, this system empowers Tiger Resort, Leisure and Entertainment Inc. to engage digital players nationwide. Okada Manila Expands Its Online Presence This launch supports Okada Manila’s strategy to integrate its land-based casino services with online gaming. The resort aims to strengthen its omnichannel approach by allowing customers to interact with the brand through both physical venues and digital platforms. Brian Ng, President of PhilWeb, stated: “We are pleased to offer a robust and scalable platform that enables Tiger Resort to extend the premium experience of Okada Manila to a broader audience of digital players across the country.” Ng added that the launch demonstrates PhilWeb’s capability to deliver comprehensive digital infrastructure tailored for established gaming brands. Nobuki Sato, President and Chief Operating Officer of Okada Manila, commented: “This launch represents a significant milestone in Okada Manila’s digital transformation as we broaden access to our gaming experience throughout the Philippines via Okada Play. PhilWeb’s technological expertise and operational excellence allow us to provide a trusted online gaming environment that upholds the reputation of the Okada Manila brand.” The online platform debut occurs during a pivotal period for Okada Manila, which also recently unveiled Ariake—an exclusive gaming club designed specifically for Japanese VIP guests. The resort emphasized that Ariake is part of its initiative to attract more international high-roller clients. 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) -   France has introduced a new tool for detecting problem gambling, and initial results indicate a much broader group at risk than what operators currently report. Key Points The ANJ identified approximately 600,000 players with a high likelihood of excessive gambling. About 300,000 were classified as manifestly excessive gamblers. These flagged players generated around €1.2 billion in online gambling GGR. The French National Gaming Authority (ANJ) has developed an algorithm designed to detect risky online and in-play betting behavior at the account level. The model was built using real-time data from operators and incorporates 23 indicators derived from gambling harm research, such as payment patterns, gambling intensity, player history, and the use of self-exclusion tools. France Regulator Sets A Higher Bar For Player Risk Detection ANJ categorizes players into four groups: recreational, moderate risk, excessive, and manifestly excessive. The tool’s performance was evaluated against the Canadian Problem Gambling Index, and its methodology was reviewed by an independent scientific committee. Early findings are based on data from the second half of 2025. The algorithm identified roughly 600,000 high-probability excessive gamblers—equivalent to 8.7% of the total population engaged in regulated online and in-play wagering under ANJ oversight. This includes all licensed online operators, as well as the two major account-based operators: La Française des Jeux (FDJ) and Pari Mutuel Urbain (PMU). Half of this flagged group—about 300,000 individuals—were placed in the manifestly excessive category. ANJ expects operators to prioritize intervention for these accounts. The financial impact is significant: players identified by the algorithm are estimated to have generated €1.2 billion in gross gaming revenue (GGR), accounting for roughly 60% of total online gambling GGR. ANJ notes that this share has increased since 2023. In contrast, operator reporting remains far below these figures. Licensed companies reported identifying only 31,000 excessive gamblers in 2024 and 89,000 in 2025. While ANJ acknowledges progress, it emphasizes that the gap between algorithmic estimates and both operator reports and population surveys remains substantial. According to the French Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, about 1.17 million people exhibited problematic gambling behaviors in 2024, of whom around 360,000 were classified as excessive players. ANJ will make the algorithm available to operators on an optional basis. The regulator intends it to serve as a compliance benchmark, allowing companies to compare their internal detection systems against an independent standard. ANJ also plans to continue cross-checking operator reports with its own data. Isabelle Falque-Pierrotin, president of ANJ, described the tool as “a decisive step for the regulator.” She stated that ANJ expects operators to begin targeting the 300,000 manifestly excessive players first, followed by expanded efforts across the broader at-risk group. The initiative forms part of ANJ’s strategy from 2024 to 2026, which aims to reduce excessive gambling by 2027. ANJ also seeks to strengthen detection capabilities in retail gambling, particularly within FDJ and PMU operations. ANJ clarified that the algorithm does not replace epidemiological studies or provide an exact national prevalence rate. Instead, it offers a practical benchmark for regulatory oversight, trend monitoring, and accountability in improving player protection measures. 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) -   TIME has introduced a prediction-style game to its digital gaming section, integrating data from Polymarket and Kalshi alongside traditional offerings like jigsaws and word puzzles. Good to Know Market Movers utilizes live data feeds from Polymarket and Kalshi. The gameplay centers on casual subjects like consumer trends, entertainment, and sports. A real-money prediction platform is slated for a early 2026 launch via a partnership with Galactic. The newly debuted games hub features standard favorites such as Sudoku, history quizzes, and cover-themed jigsaws. However, Market Movers stands out for its potential impact on the industry. Defined as a “first-of-its-kind fantasy prediction market game,” the product uses live data to let players test their awareness of markets and current events. While it doesn't involve purchasing contracts, it introduces the concept in a risk-free environment. Prediction Markets Become a Daily Media RoutineTIME COO Mark Howard emphasized that Market Movers steers clear of serious categories, focusing instead on sports and lifestyle topics to avoid sensitive or tragic subject matter. Howard noted: “You don’t want to get too heavy with a game.” This approach highlights the product's strategy. Because prediction markets can face scrutiny when linked to conflict or disasters, TIME is positioning the format as a daily engagement tool rather than a gambling product. This framing provides a gateway for the general public. Players can observe how news influences outcomes and how markets forecast events without financial risk, establishing a familiar routine.This mirrors the strategy used by sports betting firms prior to the 2018 repeal of PASPA, where free games served as educational tools for odds and interfaces before real-money betting became legal. TIME has broader ambitions in this space. In November 2025, the publisher revealed a collaboration with Galactic for a real-money prediction platform set for early 2026. Market Movers serves as a precursor to help familiarize the audience with the mechanics. The broader media landscape is also embracing this data, with organizations like CNBC, The Associated Press, and The New York Times increasingly referencing Kalshi and Polymarket figures in their economic and political reporting. Howard noted that the primary goal of the hub is boosting reader engagement: “Time spent is the greatest indicator that what we built is successful. “Hopefully this becomes much more of that daily behavior that every media company so covets.”While this aligns with typical gaming goals, Market Movers also provides a bridge for prediction platforms to reach a wider audience through a casual, repeatable interface. For the publication, it drives daily traffic; for the prediction market sector, it helps transition a specialized trading style into a mainstream pastime. 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 player from South Plainfield transformed a minor jackpot add-on into a seven-figure online casino win at Hard Rock Bet Casino in New Jersey. Good to Know Deborah S. won $1,942,272.47 on Bag the Swag Hold & Win. She played $1 spins with 20 cents going toward the jackpot pool. The payout became the first seven-figure online casino jackpot for Hard Rock Bet in New Jersey. The Hard Rock Bet Mega Jackpot has issued its first major payout in New Jersey, with Deborah S. receiving $1,942,272.47 on Monday. Hard Rock Bet only identified the winner by first name and last initial. Small Jackpot Add-On Generates Major Hard Rock Bet Win The win occurred on Bag the Swag Hold & Win, where Deborah placed $1 bets and allocated $0.20 per spin to the jackpot pool. Hard Rock Bet Casino stated that the payout came through its highest-tier Mega Jackpot. Rich Criado, VP of casino at Hard Rock Digital, commented:“Witnessing Deborah become our inaugural Mega Jackpot winner in New Jersey is incredibly exciting for everyone at Hard Rock Bet. Wins like this demonstrate that every spin can genuinely transform a player’s day—or even their life. This is precisely the kind of moment our jackpot system was designed to create.” Hard Rock Bet explained that its jackpot mechanism operates across thousands of online slot games. New Jersey players can contribute $0.10 per spin to the shared progressive pool, which offers four jackpot tiers throughout the casino network. For Hard Rock Bet, the New Jersey victory adds another significant payout to a recent streak of large wins. In late April, a Florida customer turned a $30 six-leg MLB parlay into nearly $2 million after several home runs were hit. 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) -   Brazil is considering adopting a stricter stance on online betting, with officials connecting the market’s rapid expansion to household debt and concerns about problem gambling. Good to Know Participants in Desenrola Brasil 2.0 will be restricted from betting platforms for one year. José Guimarães stated that Brazil has not yet finalized its policy approach. Lula has linked betting losses to family debt and broader campaign priorities. Brazil has already included a betting restriction in its debt relief policy. Individuals who join Desenrola Brasil 2.0— the Ministry of Finance’s debt renegotiation program— will be prohibited from accessing betting platforms nationwide for one year. The aim is clear: prevent borrowers from renegotiating their debts only to lose income through gambling. The first Desenrola program launched in 2023, and the updated version adds betting controls as worries over household finances grow. Lula said during a Labor Day radio and TV address:“It’s not fair that women have to work even harder to pay off their husbands’ gambling debts.” Government Considers Ban or Stricter Betting Regulations According to CNN Brazil, Minister of Institutional Relations José Guimarães told CNN 360 that the federal government has started discussions but has not settled on a plan for the online betting sector. Guimarães said: “The government has started discussing it; we don’t yet have a defined position on what to do. “Either it ends, or we implement radical regulations.”These comments place online betting within a wider political battle ahead of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s re-election campaign. Workers’ Party members have grouped gambling with other voter-focused issues, including ending the 6×1 work schedule and taxing the super-rich. Finance officials view betting as one driver of debt among Brazilian families. Their concern is that some users spend part of their income on gambling, while more serious cases may involve taking out loans to continue betting. Executive Secretary of the Treasury Rogério Ceron also linked gambling to a recent rise in indebtedness. He noted that the Desenrola Brasil 2.0 betting block aims to stop borrowers from slipping back into financial trouble after renegotiating their obligations. Brazil now faces a policy choice that could reshape its legal online betting market shortly after regulations began to take firmer shape. More limits, stricter controls, or even a suspension of activity remain part of the ongoing debate. 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) -   Dana White has requested President Donald Trump's support for revising the newly enacted gambling tax deduction rule, claiming it negatively impacts bettors, Nevada employees, and the legal sports betting industry. Key Facts Bettors may now only deduct 90% of their gambling losses against winnings. The change became effective on Jan. 1 following its inclusion in the One Big Beautiful Bill in July 2025. White contends this regulation is driving some bettors toward unregulated online platforms. White submitted a letter dated May 11 to Trump, which was shared by gambling industry insider Dustin Gouker, after months of concern over the new tax law affecting gambling deductions. The UFC president and CEO argued that Congress should rescind the provision because it could result in taxpayers owing money even when their wins and losses balance out. Previously, gamblers were permitted to deduct up to 100% of their losses against winnings. Any remaining losses beyond winnings could not be used to reduce other taxable income. With the new 90% limit, a bettor can break even yet still face taxation on a portion of their winnings. White Warns Legal Betting Could Lose Customers New: UFC President Dana White has sent a letter to President Donald Trump asking him to help reverse the 90 percent limit on gambling loss deductions for US taxpayers that became law last year.The issue has been a concern for both bettors and the gambling industry itself. pic.twitter.com/WH9ukZi3mH — Dustin Gouker (@DustinGouker) May 13, 2026 While praising Trump for passing the One Big Beautiful Bill, White urged him to advocate for a correction. He stated that "addressing this deduction issue would send a strong signal that the United States supports sensible regulation."White wrote: "I believe Congress should address this issue as the policy is already causing problems. The current law makes it illogical to gamble in the United States because you might end up paying taxes even when you lose or incur a tax liability greater than your winnings." White also connected the issue to Nevada, where casinos, sportsbooks, hospitality workers, and tipped staff rely heavily on gambling activity. According to him, the rule reduces winning bettors' willingness to spend, tip generously, or continue playing within the regulated market. White wrote that "winning gamblers tend to tip more." He added that bettors are becoming less generous when they do win "if they choose to gamble at all." The UFC has embraced legal sports betting since the repeal of PASPA in 2018. The company has established sportsbook sponsorships, collaborated with licensed operators, and supported state-level regulation of betting markets. White informed Trump that the revised tax rule jeopardizes this system by steering some players toward offshore casinos, where tax treatment and regulatory oversight differ significantly. As outlined in his letter:"The UFC supports a thriving, legal sports betting sector to boost fan engagement, broadcast value, and sponsorship opportunities. Discouraging legal betting undermines the ecosystem we've worked years to build in partnership with state regulators and licensed operators. It also weakens the transparency and integrity safeguards provided by legitimate betting platforms for professional sports." Lawmakers have previously attempted to overturn the 90% cap on gambling loss deductions amid opposition from both bettors and gaming industry representatives. White now brings a prominent voice to this effort, directly appealing to Trump for intervention. 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) -   NorthStar Gaming is currently facing two distinct situations. Its Ontario betting brand remains fully operational, while trading of the parent company’s securities has been halted across Canada. Good to Know NorthStar Bets still accepts sports betting and online casino wagers in Ontario. The OSC order targets NorthStar Gaming securities, not the company's betting platform. The filing delay comes from a dispute between the company and its auditor over vendor software controls. The Ontario Securities Commission has issued a failure-to-file cease trade order against NorthStar Gaming Holdings Inc. after the company missed the deadline for its 2025 audited annual financial statements, MD&A, and executive certifications. NorthStar securities can no longer be traded across any Canadian jurisdiction, including the TSX Venture Exchange where the company has been listed since 2023. Limited exceptions apply for certain non-insiders and non-control persons selling through regulated foreign markets. Auditor Withdrawal Creates Filing Block The trading halt was issued after NorthStar failed to resolve an audit issue tied to player account management software from a key vendor. On May 6, 2026, the independent auditor withdrew its May 14, 2025 report for the 2024 fiscal period, stating it could no longer rely on the related internal controls. This move also weakened confidence in the company's 2025 financial figures.NorthStar disagrees with the auditor's position. The company says its earlier vendor systems report was reliable and proved proper controls for data integrity were in place. The auditor has requested a new systems report, and no allegation of improper conduct has been made. Before the full trading freeze was implemented, NorthStar requested a management cease trade order, a narrower restriction that would only have limited trading by company executives. The OSC rejected the request because it was not convinced NorthStar could complete the required filings within two months. The FFCTO will remain in effect until the missing filings are submitted and the OSC revokes the order. If NorthStar submits the filings within 90 days, those documents will count as an application to lift the order. The company has not announced a firm timeline for when filings will be completed. NorthStar has also postponed its annual meeting, which was originally scheduled for May 25, 2026.The filing issue comes as the company undergoes a leadership and strategic reset. Michael Moskowitz resigned as CEO in December after four years in the role, and Corey Goodman stepped in as Interim CEO. Barry Shafran, former chair of the audit committee, also resigned from his position. In March, NorthStar outlined a new plan focused on disciplined execution, improved capital allocation, greater advertising efficiency, stronger customer retention, and better profitability. Goodman said: “We are focused on taking deliberate, measured steps to position the company for profitability. The expected annualized G&A savings reflect measures that have largely been implemented. “Building on these cost reductions, management is actively rolling out additional efficiency and operating leverage initiatives across services, marketing spend, and cost of goods sold that are expected to materially strengthen the Company’s EBITDA profile.” NorthStar Bets launched in May 2022, one month after the company received its Ontario iGaming license. For the time being, customers can still access the sportsbook and online casino, even as investors wait for the financial filings and a final decision from the OSC.The filing delay has also brought earlier concerns around cash flow and liquidity back into focus, including questions over whether NorthStar has enough resources to cover its ongoing operating expenses. 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) -   Artificial intelligence tools currently assist gambling firms with fraud detection, customer interactions, promotional activities, responsible gaming notifications, and regulatory compliance. Malta is now seeking to establish more defined boundaries for this technology. Key Highlights The MGA's draft charter emphasizes the ethical application of AI within the gambling sector. This framework is optional and serves as a complement to current legislation. Feedback is invited from operators, vendors, and compliance officers during the consultation period. The Malta Gaming Authority has launched a public consultation regarding a proposed AI Gaming Charter, developed in collaboration with the Malta Digital Innovation Authority. This document provides industry-specific advice on artificial intelligence for gambling operators without creating new statutory laws. MGA Seeks Defined Guidelines for Automated Decision-Making Accountability is a central theme of the charter. While AI can assist operators in analyzing data and informing decisions, the MGA insists on human oversight in critical sectors. This encompasses decisions related to client accounts, regulatory adherence, and responsible gambling. The draft also emphasizes transparency. Operators are expected to clarify how AI systems influence significant results. This requirement is increasingly important as gambling businesses deploy automated solutions for player risk assessments, fraud prevention, customer support chats, advertising, and data analytics.The MGA also highlights the importance of personal data protection. Since AI systems frequently require extensive customer databases, operators are required to maintain privacy safeguards and adhere to current data regulations. External suppliers are another critical aspect. As many operators depend on third-party software, the proposed charter mandates that companies verify their vendors' AI systems comply with appropriate technical, ethical, and regulatory criteria. Furthermore, the draft mandates ongoing testing. Operators should continuously check algorithms for mistakes, biases, inefficiencies, unexpected outcomes, or discriminatory tendencies, and address any issues promptly. MGA Chief Executive Officer Charles Mizzi noted that AI tools are already extensively utilized by licensees in Malta and entities in other regions. He added that improved guidance can enable the industry to adopt AI in a manner that is more responsible and open.The charter is also consistent with the European Union AI Act, which employs a risk-based approach to artificial intelligence. This European framework imposes obligations on specific AI developers, providers, and users, prioritizing transparency, accountability, and consumer protection. Malta frequently utilizes consultation processes when technological advancements outpace formal regulations. In this instance, input from operators, compliance experts, suppliers, and other industry stakeholders will assist in refining the final document. This consultation process may also offer other gambling regulators a valuable preliminary perspective on AI supervision. While operators are integrating AI into more business functions, the long-term expectations for compliance still require further definition. 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) -   Lawmakers in Minnesota have greenlit a ban on prediction markets, which might mark the first direct state-wide prohibition of this type. Good to Know The legislation is set to go into effect on August 1. Platforms like Kalshi, Robinhood, Crypto.com, and others may encounter new restrictions in Minnesota. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has maintained that states lack the authority to block federally regulated prediction markets. Minnesota has now become the focal point of the prediction market debate, as lawmakers included the ban provisions in a broader public safety bill. The House voted 100-32 to approve the package on Tuesday, just hours after the Senate passed it by a 57-9 margin. The bill now lands on Gov. Tim Walz’s desk. He can either sign it or allow it to become law without his signature. Given the wide margins of approval, legislators probably have sufficient votes to override any veto. State Gambling Authority Clashes Set to Reach Federal Court The ban would prevent prediction market operators from accepting trades related to sports, elections, pop culture, and other event contracts within Minnesota. This places the state in conflict with the CFTC, the agency responsible for overseeing federally regulated prediction markets.The CFTC has already pushed back against state officials who classify prediction markets as illegal gambling. Its stance is unambiguous: federal law grants the agency jurisdiction over these platforms, not state gambling regulators. Leading operators such as Kalshi, Robinhood, and Crypto.com are already involved in over a dozen legal battles in states that consider their offerings to be gambling. Minnesota may soon enter this legal fray, as the August 1 effective date gives platforms time to file lawsuits before enforcement starts. The way the ban was passed also sparked criticism. A separate prediction market bill had received widespread bipartisan backing in the Senate, but the House had not scheduled it for a vote. Lawmakers then inserted the ban language into the public safety bill toward the end of the 2026 legislative session. Rep. Drew Roach criticized both the process and the ban itself, stating:“I believe this is a major overreach. It’s a disappointing day for Minnesotans and the way we conduct our legislative business.” Rep. Nolan West also voted against the bill, noting that thousands of residents already use prediction markets and that banning them would merely shift activity to other places. “Unfortunately, prohibition doesn’t work. If it did, we’d live in a utopia where we could ban all bad things,” West stated. “But when you prohibit something, you just push it into the shadows. That’s exactly what will happen here.” West also added a warning that Minnesota could end up spending money on a legal case it is unlikely to win. “This is a terrible idea, mainly because we as a state don’t have the authority to do this,” West said prior to voting against the prediction market ban. “Every state that has tried this is beginning to lose those lawsuits. This will cost the state an unknown amount in legal fees with no real benefit.” Support for the ban came from Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party Rep. Emma Greenman, who framed the issue as one of state gambling authority. Minnesota permits tribal casinos, two horse racing tracks, a state lottery, and charitable gaming, yet it is still one of 11 states without legalized sports betting.“This bill is asserting Minnesotans’ right to do what we’ve always done: decide what regulations are best to apply to gambling to protect public safety, our children, and the integrity of gambling itself,” Greenman explained. For prediction market operators, Minnesota now represents another test case to determine if state gambling laws can apply to event contracts that are regulated at the federal level. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Aussie gambling shares are surging following the gaming operator Aristocrat's announcement of net profits of nearly $575 million (USD) for the first half of the financial year. In its pre-audit earnings disclosure, Aristocrat reported profits increased by more than 17% compared to the previous year, and declared shareholder dividends of $0.36 per share for July. The company’s gaming segment revenues grew almost 5% year-on-year, reaching just over $1.4 billion. In response, share prices surged by over 13% on May 13, pushing the market capitalization above $20 billion. Trading volumes also spiked, more than doubling within 24 hours to reach 3.3 million shares. Aristocrat outperformed most stocks on the Australian Stock Exchange on May 13, as the S&P/ASX 200 index declined 0.4%. Aristocrat share prices on May 13. (Image: Google Finance) While gaming stocks are generally falling in the US and Asia, certain Australian operators appear to be defying the trend. Aristocrat’s main rival, Light & Wonder, saw its share price rise by 5% on May 13, with trading volumes nearly doubling from May 12 levels. Light & Wonder released its own quarterly results earlier this month, showing a more modest 2% increase as revenues climbed to $573 million. Light & Wonder share prices on May 13. (Image: Google Finance) Share prices at The Lottery Corporation rose by nearly 2%, although its trading volumes fell below the five-day average. However, smaller Aussie operators such as Skycity experienced a decline, with prices dropping 4%. What Has Sparked the Aussie Gambling Share Boom? Aristocrat investors appear to have been encouraged by the company’s strong financial performance. The firm’s normalized Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, and Amortization (EBITA) rose by over 6%, surpassing AUD 1 billion. But earnings alone are not the full story. The company is also seeking to attract stock market investment by expanding its on-market share buy-back program by an additional $726 million. The program is now valued at $1.8 million and has been extended through mid-May 2027. The operator is also embracing artificial intelligence at a time when chip stocks are experiencing widespread growth. “We are increasingly leveraging AI to enhance our strategic advantages and transform our processes,” CEO Trevor Croker told investors during an earnings call. Croker also announced the appointment of new board members with backgrounds in AI leadership. According to the media outlet Australian Financial Review, Aristocrat aims to exceed market expectations by selling access to approximately 5,000 poker machines in 2026. After a prolonged legal dispute, Light & Wonder and Aristocrat resolved their disagreement over alleged gaming development infringements earlier this year. The former agreed to pay Aristocrat $127.5 million after admitting it used Aristocrat’s math data to develop algorithms for the games Dragon Train and Jewel of the Dragon. Light & Wonder agreed to cease selling Jewel of the Dragon in April of last year. Aristocrat has been expanding its sports offerings in the US in recent years. In 2025, the company launched its NFL-themed slot titles in Puerto Rico. 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 Trifecta is a type of exotic bet and one of the most potentially profitable wagers in horse racing. To win a Trifecta, bettors must correctly predict the first three finishers in the exact order. Trifectas are available for this year’s Preakness Stakes, which is scheduled to take place on Saturday at Laurel Park in Maryland. What Did the Preakness Stakes Trifecta Pay Out Last Year? Let's examine the finishing results from the 2025 Preakness to understand how the Trifecta bet works. Journalism (horse #2), Gosger (horse #9), and Sandman (horse #7) finished in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, respectively. A $1 Trifecta bet on the combination 2-9-7 resulted in a payout of $73.50. This was a relatively modest payout, as Journalism was the 8-5 favorite, and Sandman was the second betting choice at 4-1 odds. While accurately predicting the top three finishers in precise order is challenging, there are alternative methods for placing Trifecta bets that can increase your chances of winning. Different Types of Trifecta Bets The example above illustrates a straight Trifecta bet. Here are other variations for making Trifecta wagers: Trifecta Box A Trifecta box bet allows you to wager on the first three finishers without needing to specify the exact order of finish. By "boxing" three horses, you cover all possible winning combinations. Consequently, a $1 Trifecta box bet will cost $6. If you want to bet on horses #6, #7, and #9 to finish in the top three, you would state at the betting window: “$1 Trifecta box on 6, 7, and 9.” The cost increases if you choose to include more horses in your box bet: 4 horses (resulting in 24 combinations): $24 5 horses (resulting in 60 combinations): $60 6 horses (resulting in 120 combinations): $120 Trifecta Key This bet is recommended if you are highly confident that a specific horse will win the race. You designate your "key" horse to finish first and select other horses to finish second and third. For instance, if you believe horse #5 will win, and horses #7 and #9 will finish second and third, respectively. You would place the bet by saying: “$1 Trifecta Key #5 on top of 7 and 9.” The cost of this ticket is $6. This method allows the second and third-place finishers to come in either order, which saves money compared to boxing all possible combinations. Trifecta Wheel With a Trifecta wheel bet, you can select one or two horses to finish in a specific position and combine them with all possible combinations for the remaining positions. For example, if there are eight horses in the race and you believe horse #1 will win, you would say, “$1 Trifecta 1-all-all.” This bet would cost $42 to cover every possible combination. The cost of the bet naturally increases with a larger number of horses in the race. Biggest Preakness Trifecta Payout The largest Trifecta payout in the modern history of the Preakness Stakes occurred in 2019 when War of Will won the race. The $1 Trifecta bet on the combination 1-10-5 paid out $4,699.80. 1st place: #1 War of Will (6-1 odds) 2nd place: #10 Everfast (29-1 odds) 3rd place: #5 Owendale (8-1 odds) This year's Preakness Stakes is anticipated to be a highly competitive race, potentially leading to another significant payout for Trifecta bettors. See also: Exacta Bets | Superfecta Bets 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 senior regional Ukrainian post office official misappropriated funds allocated for pension and social assistance disbursements and squandered them on online gambling platforms. According to a court announcement, the Tyachiv District Court in Zakarpattia sentenced an unnamed female Ukrposhta employee to two years of probation. Prosecutors stated that the woman embezzled the funds in September 2022. She utilized official Ukrposhta access credentials to transfer small sums to her personal card over a 10-day period. The woman subsequently used the entire amount for online gambling. She later filed a police report, alleging that the money had been stolen from the post office’s cash register. Ukrainian Post Office Worker Sorry for Stealing Money The woman eventually admitted to the offense, acknowledging that her gambling habits had led her into debt. She has since repaid the funds to Ukrposhta, which had initially covered the losses. During sentencing, the presiding judge noted that the court had considered her “sincere remorse.” The judge further remarked that she had no prior criminal record and was the mother of two children. The court also prohibited her from holding positions involving financial responsibility and managerial duties for two years. Additionally, she was fined 6,800 hryvnia, equivalent to $155. An Ukrposhta branch in the Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih. (Image: Andrew J.Kurbiko [CC BY-SA 4.0]) Gambling-Addicted Dance Instructor Stole Money From Parents The development in Zakarpattia occurred just days after a court in Ukraine’s Cherkasy Oblast sentenced a children’s dance instructor to a five-year suspended jail term for embezzling money from parents to fund online gambling. The instructor, Viktoria Kalashnik, who choreographs for a children’s ensemble named Nadezhda, was identified as the offender, according to Ukrainian media outlet Glavcom. In February 2025, Nadezhda won a dance competition and subsequently received an invitation to participate in an international festival in Batumi, Georgia. Kalashnik took charge of organizing the trip and began collecting money from parents in April. A total of 26 families contributed 1,181,061 hryvnia, amounting to approximately $27,000. However, the parents grew suspicious of Kalashnik’s behavior. The coach “repeatedly rescheduled the trip and never showed them travel tickets,” as stated by prosecutors. The parents eventually visited Kalashnik’s home, where the instructor confessed to losing the money. During the trial, Kalashnik again admitted to losing the funds and stated that she suffered from pathological gambling addiction. “I won on my first visit to an online casino,” she told the court. “After that, I couldn’t stop. I lost my own money and my parents’ cash, too.” Prior to the trial, Kalashnik partially compensated the parents, paying back around $3,000. A branch of the Sosnovsky District Court found Kalashnik guilty of large-scale fraud and suspended her jail sentence for three years. The presiding judge also ordered Kalashnik to pay financial compensation and moral damages fines totaling $27,300. Earlier this year, PlayCity, Ukraine’s gambling regulator, imposed a $10,000 fine on the operator of the sports betting and online slots brand Betking, Slots UA. PlayCity cited failure to provide financial data “in a timely manner” as the reason for the penalty. The regulator has also recently revoked the license of the Cosmolot online casino operator Spaceiks. 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) -   Leading Macao casino share prices are falling or stagnating after operators posted disappointing first-quarter earnings. Galaxy Entertainment Group’s pre-audit report revealed an 11% net revenue year-on-year increase to just under $1.6 billion, the Japanese-language media outlet Macau Shimbun reported. However, the firm also saw its revenues drop by 10% from Q4 FY2025. Gross gaming revenue rose year-on-year, but the firm also experienced a 9% quarter-on-quarter decline. While the firm reported year-on-year rises in mass gaming, VIP room, and slots revenues, these also fell in the past quarter. Most notably, VIP revenues dropped by 25% since the start of the calendar year. Galaxy’s net liabilities were $345 million, leaving the operator with pre-audit cash and liquid investments worth around $4.7 billion. The firm is currently developing a range of new dining, lifestyle, leisure, and retail facilities at its Galaxy Macau resort. This project will see it open new casino facilities and add a new 1,350-room hotel. It has also begun renovating its StarWorld Hotel on the Macao Peninsula. The work includes remodeling two casino floors. The company stated that its StarWorld renovation would be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2027. Galaxy Entertainment Group share prices on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange over the past five days. (Image: Google Finance) Macao Casino Earnings: SJM Holdings Revenues Drop 21% Earlier this month, the same media outlet reported that SJM Holdings, another Hong Kong-listed firm with a Macao casino management concession, also posted quarter-on-quarter revenue declines. SJM operates a range of casino facilities under the Lisboa brand. SJM Holdings share prices on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange over the past five days. (Image: Google Finance) Company documents reveal the operator’s net revenues for the first quarter of this year were $754 million, down 21.1% year-on-year. Gross gambling revenue also fell by nearly 19%. Profits attributable to parent company shareholders decreased from a surplus of $4 million to a deficit of almost $8 million. The company’s share of Macao’s total casino revenue declined by 3.9 percentage points to just under 10%. Rival operator MGM China earlier reported a 10% year-on-year rise in revenues in Q1, along with a drop in VIP spending. Gaming shares are also down elsewhere in the world, despite a global stock market boom. While sky-high tech shares drove the S&P 500 Index to new record highs, popular gambling-focused exchange-traded funds fell by more than 3%. Back in Hong Kong, MGM China share prices dropped by 1.6% on May 12, while Wynn Macau fell 0.7%. 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) -   Legal hurdles are a daily occurrence for prediction markets. The most recent lawsuit targeting Kalshi has been initiated by a coalition of New Mexico tribes. Concurrently, legislators in Minnesota have passed a bill designed to outlaw various prediction markets, specifically those concerning elections and sports. The lawsuit was filed by the Mescalero Apache Tribe, Pueblo of Isleta, Pueblo of Pojoaque, and Pueblo of Sandia. They accuse Kalshi of breaching Indian gaming compacts through the provision of unlawful gaming operations. Tribes Allege Kalshi Facilitates Unlawful Sports Wagering Kalshi contends its platform differs from sports betting, citing that it neither functions as the house nor directly accepts wagers. This assertion has been dismissed by the tribes. “Determining if an activity qualifies as 'gaming' under IGRA is not contingent on whether participants wager against the 'house' or one another,” the lawsuit asserts. The filing also references a past statement from a Kalshi attorney: “Contracts pertaining to games are likely unsuitable for listing on an exchange, as they lack genuine economic utility.” It further notes, “The sports event contracts offered by Kalshi possess all the defining traits anticipated by sports bettors in gambling: moneyline bets (predicting the winner), over/unders (total combined points), point spreads (margin of victory), prop bets (specific in-game events), and parlays (combined outcomes).” Consequently, the tribes contend that sports prediction markets warrant classification as sports betting. Current New Mexico statutes restrict legal sports wagering to in-person transactions at tribal casinos. Varying Outcomes for Other Tribal Litigation This marks the third instance of tribal entities suing Kalshi, succeeding previous legal actions filed in California and Wisconsin last year. In Wisconsin, a judge denied Kalshi's request to dismiss the lawsuit filed by the Ho Chunk Nation, a case backed by tribal organizations nationwide. Meanwhile, the Ninth Circuit in California declined the tribes' motion to consolidate their appeal with a Nevada prediction market case.  The Blue Lake Rancheria, Chicken Ranch Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians, and Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians had petitioned the Ninth Circuit to route their appeal against Kalshi and Robinhood to the panel overseeing the Nevada litigation. Nevada has proven the most effective state in combating prediction markets, standing alone in compelling Kalshi to exit the market. “Given the substantial distinctions between this appeal and North American Derivatives Exchange, Inc. v. State of Nevada … the motion to transfer this appeal to the panel that heard argument in that matter … is DENIED,” a court order declared. Minnesota Enacts Prohibition on Sports Prediction Markets In other developments, Minnesota legislators have approved a bill specifically outlawing sports prediction markets. The House passed SF4760 with a 100-32 vote, following a prior 57-9 approval in the Senate. This legislation is part of a broader Public Safety policy package. The provisions addressing prediction markets would bar operators from facilitating contracts on the following topics: Sports & Games: Athletic competitions, individual player performance, and games utilizing cards, dice, or electronics. Crises & Disasters: Conflicts, emergencies, disasters, shootings, terror, and health crises. Human Events: Specific events involving individuals or groups. Government & Politics: Elections and behavior of officials/agencies. Legal Proceedings: Lawsuits, trials, settlements, verdicts. Violence & Mortality: Deaths, assassinations, mass casualty events. Weather: Short-term forecasts and environmental events. Pop Culture: Awards and release dates. Statements: Forecasts regarding specific utterances by individuals. The bill now awaits the signature of Governor Tim Walz. Upon enactment, state officials would gain the authority to issue cease-and-desist orders to non-compliant firms. Kalshi is a probable target for such an order and would likely retaliate by filing suit against the state. Kalshi maintains that state regulations are inapplicable, asserting that its operations fall under the jurisdiction of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). The CFTC has pledged to support licensed operators and has intervened in legal battles across multiple states. The controversy surrounding the legality of sports prediction markets persists. Attorney Melinda Roth remarked this week that while the CFTC is the fitting regulator for sports-event contracts, the final decision on lawfulness rests with the Supreme Court. A ruling is not anticipated before 2027. Until then, anticipate continued litigation and legislative attempts to curb activities viewed by many as illicit sports betting. 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) -   Gambling in Oklahoma is set to remain in a gray area for the foreseeable future, as Governor Kevin Stitt vetoed a ban on sweepstakes casinos. The move follows lawmakers’ rejection of legislation to legalize sports betting in the state. Both the House and Senate passed the bill explicitly banning sweepstakes casinos. The Senate approved SB1589 in a 48-0 vote at the start of March, while the House voted 65-21 in favor of the bill last week. Gov. Stitt, however, went against the consensus and vetoed the new law on Monday. The governor did not issue an official statement explaining why he shot down the legislation. He posted on X that he weighed “each bill with care and intention, thinking of the families, communities, and future generations who will be impacted.” As I complete my final bill review meetings as Governor, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude. The process has meant weighing each bill with care and intention, thinking of the families, communities, and future generations who will be impacted. What a privilege this… pic.twitter.com/pUOuSPhS6B— Governor Kevin Stitt (@GovStitt) May 13, 2026 Having been elected in 2018, Gov. Stitt’s term in office will come to an end in January next year. He has strongly opposed expanding gambling in the state through tribal compacts, stating that he would veto any bills that grant a monopoly to tribes. The veto on the sweepstakes ban may be a fear that it would similarly strengthen the tribes’ exclusive rights to offer gambling in Oklahoma. Bill Would Have Prohibited Dual-Currency Gambling The legislation would have explicitly prohibited platforms from offering online casino games through dual currencies. However, it carved out an exception “as provided in the Oklahoma Charity Games Act or asotherwise authorized to be conducted on Indian lands in compliance with the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.” This part of the legislation is perhaps what made Gov. Stitt refuse to sign the ban into law. In theory, it could have allowed tribes to launch online casino games using dual currencies. Non-tribal groups that ran sweepstakes casinos would have faced a Class C2 felony, with fines of $500 to $2,000 and potential imprisonment. Tribal Push For Sports Betting Also Rejected Gov. Stitt has also been vocal about vetoing any legislation that would grant tribes the right to offer sports betting. “I will absolutely veto any bill that creates a monopoly or protects one at the expense of a fair, open market,” Stitt said. “We need a plan that works for all four million Oklahomans, not just a few special interests.” Lawmakers came closer than ever to legalizing sports betting in Oklahoma, which remains one of the few states without any legal retail or online sports wagering. However, the legislation did not reach Gov. Stitt’s desk. The House approved HB1047 in a 62-31 vote at the end of March, but the Senate voted it down in a 27-21 vote last month. The bill proposed allowing tribes to offer both in-person and online sports betting through commercial partners such as DraftKings and FanDuel. Tribes would have kept the majority of the revenue but would have given 8% of earnings back to the state. New Governor Could See Change in Laws As Gov. Stitt’s term in office comes to an end, a new Governor could see the state finally legalize sports betting. Kalshi currently gives the Republican Party a 92.7% chance of winning the gubernatorial race. Candidates include Attorney General Gentner Drummond, who has opposed sports prediction markets. “This is unequivocally gambling, which means it belongs under State authority,” Drummond said. “States have long had the right and responsibility to protect their own citizens from the dangers of gambling, and that should continue to hold true whether bets take place on a prediction market or inside a traditional casino.” This stance suggests he may favor legalizing sports betting with state authority, whether that is through the tribes remains to be seen. A survey last year showed he is the leading candidate with 35% of voter support, just ahead of Charles McCall at 33%. McCall has historically supported a Tribal-centric model. He believes the path to legal sports betting must go through the existing tribal gaming compacts, as the tribes are the state’s long-term partners. Either way, Oklahomans can continue using unregulated sweepstakes casinos and prediction markets, but are forbidden from accessing legal sportsbooks for the foreseeable future. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Google showcased a wide array of Android updates at its virtual Android Show I/O Edition, previewing new features ahead of Google I/O. Artificial intelligence is central to these changes, with Gemini integrated into laptops, Chrome, automobiles, forms, widgets, and everyday phone tools. Quick Facts Googlebook laptops will launch in the fall, featuring built-in Gemini Intelligence. Android Auto will introduce Gemini, dashboard widgets, and video support in select vehicles. Android 17 will enable enhanced theft protection by default on new and upgraded devices. 1. Googlebook Laptops Now Include Gemini Intelligence Googlebook is a new line of laptops designed around Gemini Intelligence. Google is collaborating with Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, and Lenovo to develop the initial models, which will be available in various sizes and designs starting in the fall. These devices aim to provide more personalized and proactive assistance. A new "Magic Pointer" cursor powered by Gemini will enhance interaction, while Android phone compatibility allows users to run phone apps directly on a Googlebook. Custom widgets will also help integrate the laptop more seamlessly with the broader Android ecosystem. 2. Gemini Expands Its Role Across Android Apps Gemini Intelligence will soon take on more tasks beyond simple queries. For example, users can snap a photo of an event flyer and ask Gemini to find and book it on Expedia, or open a grocery list and request that Gemini create a shopping cart within their preferred app. Chrome for Android will also receive deeper Gemini integration, following earlier implementations on iOS and desktop. Users will be able to summarize web pages, ask questions about on-screen content, or try an experimental auto-browse feature that can complete website actions, including purchasing tickets. AI-powered form filling is another addition. Through an opt-in option, Gemini will use Personal Intelligence data to assist with completing longer mobile forms. 3. Android Auto Gets AI Video Support and DoorDash Integration The redesigned Android Auto interface adapts to different dashboard shapes—from ultrawide screens to circular displays. Widgets will appear alongside navigation, keeping essential information visible during routes. Gemini will now be available more widely in Android Auto, allowing drivers to ask questions, brainstorm ideas, or learn new topics hands-free. Google also announced plans for in-car food ordering, beginning with DoorDash. Media apps will also see improvements. YouTube Music and Spotify will get cleaner interfaces, and YouTube videos in full HD at 60 fps will be supported in compatible cars later this year. Google confirmed BMW, Ford, Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, Mahindra, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Škoda, Tata, and Volvo as the first brands to support these features. 4. Emoji Refresh and Pause Point Bring Minor Daily Enhancements Photo Credits: Google All 4,000 Android emojis have been updated with a more three-dimensional style and greater expressiveness. These refreshed emojis will roll out later this year. Pause Point helps users avoid distractions by pausing access to flagged apps. When triggered, it enforces a 10-second delay before opening the app and offers alternatives like reading in Google Play Books. Users can also set a custom timer before entering the app. 5. Sharing Between Devices and iPhone-to-Android Transfers Improve Quick Share now works with AirDrop across additional Android brands. While Pixel support was added last year, Google plans to extend compatibility to Samsung, Oppo, OnePlus, Vivo, Xiaomi, and Honor. Even without a compatible device, users can generate a Quick Share QR code to send files to an iPhone via cloud storage. Google also announced that Quick Share will soon be available within apps like WhatsApp. Switching from iPhone to Android will become simpler too. A new transfer tool will help migrate passwords, photos, messages, favorite apps, contacts, eSIM settings, and home screen layouts. Initially launching in 2026, it will first be available on Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel devices. 6. Custom Widgets and Improved Dictation Added to Android Create My Widget lets users build home screen widgets using plain language—no coding required. This feature will debut on recent Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel phones this summer. For instance, a user could request a weekly meal prep widget with three high-protein recipes and add it to their home screen, adjusting size as needed. Gboard is introducing Rambler, a dictation tool that removes filler words like "um" and "ah" from speech. It also understands corrections, such as changing "Let’s meet at 3 p.m." to "2 p.m." when followed by "um, 2 p.m." 7. Creator Tools Focus on Instagram and Short-Form Video Screen Reactions records both the user and screen simultaneously, matching formats popular on TikTok and Instagram Reels. This feature will arrive on Pixel devices this summer. Google partnered with Meta to improve Instagram on Android, adding Ultra HDR, native stabilization, night mode, and a better capture-to-upload process to preserve image quality. Meta Edit will also offer Android-exclusive tools like Smart Enhance for upscaling photos and Sound Separation for adjusting audio levels. 8. Android Security Prioritizes Protection Against Phone Theft Google is expanding theft protection features after successful testing in Brazil. Remote Lock and Theft Detection Lock will activate by default on all new Android 17 devices, freshly reset devices, and phones upgraded to the latest OS. To deter thieves, Google will increase delays between failed PIN or password attempts. On Android 12 and newer, law enforcement officers can view the IMEI number from the lock screen to verify device ownership. Additional theft prevention tools will reach Android 10 and newer in select markets, including Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and the U.K. Pixel users with current software and Advanced Protection Mode enabled will gain Intrusion Logging. 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) -   LaLiga has reported a quieter season for suspicious betting activity in Spain, with only six alerts recorded so far. Every alert came from non professional football, while First and Second Division clubs appear to have taken betting rules more seriously. Good to Know LaLiga recorded six suspicious betting alerts during the current season. All six alerts came from non professional football. More than 3,700 players, coaches, captains, and staff have attended integrity sessions. LaLiga Betting Alerts Stay Low In Professional Football LaLiga says its integrity work now rests on three main areas: prevention, live betting monitoring, and investigation. Iñaki Arbea, Director of LaLiga Integrity Area, and Pedro Varas, Head of Integrity Projects, said the system has helped reduce risk at the top level of Spanish football. Arbea said: “Footballers in Spain have a high level of awareness of the phenomenon of sports corruption.”This awareness now reaches dressing rooms before problems begin. LaLiga runs integrity workshops across First and Second Division clubs, issues a code of good practice, and places warning signs at stadiums and training grounds. Those sessions cover betting bans, risks of match fixing, rules around inside information, and criminal penalties. Players are also aware of the legal consequences. A betting offence in Spain can result in up to four years in prison. Sporting sanctions may follow, as well as administrative fines ranging from €1,200 to €100,000 under the Spanish Gambling Act. Varas noted that players now ask more practical questions during training sessions. He said: “They ask me if their grandfather can place a bet on the football pools.”He explained that relatives and close contacts cannot bet when they might have access to inside information. He added: “Before, players didn’t have the knowledge they have now — and now they weigh up the risk.” LaLiga monitors betting markets in real time, both before and during matches. Integrity Officers also attend games and serve as a direct contact point for players. Across a season, the department monitors nearly 10,000 matches, including 186 watched live. An alert does not automatically indicate match fixing. A sudden betting shift could stem from a popular tipster, heavy public action, or a player placing a banned bet on their own match. LaLiga then assesses whether the betting pattern points to corruption or a rules breach with another cause. For more serious cases, LaLiga collaborates with the Spanish National Police through CENPIDA, the National Police Centre for Integrity in Sport and Betting. This partnership has been active since 2017. Since 2018, LaLiga has referred only two major cases: the Kike Salas yellow card betting case and the Oikos case, which became one of the most prominent match fixing investigations in Spanish football. LaLiga views the low number of major referrals as proof that prevention efforts have worked, rather than evidence that monitoring has failed.The data also aligns with a broader global trend. The International Betting Integrity Association reported 300 suspicious betting alerts across all sports in its latest annual report. Europe accounted for 104 alerts, while football produced 110 alerts, representing about 37% of the total. LaLiga officials also stated that third-party bonuses have largely disappeared from professional football. These payments involve an outside party paying a team to win or perform in a way that benefits another club. Spanish sports law prohibits this practice. Varas said: “The fines are very large, and licences get revoked. A club can award a bonus to its own squad if it complies with financial control regulations, but you cannot pay a third party a bonus for doing their job.” He explained that club finances and league prize incentives already provide players with sufficient motivation to win fairly. Higher league finishes bring increased television revenue, making outside bonus offers riskier than beneficial. Varas added: “There is now greater awareness. People are more vigilant, and I believe it would be very difficult for a squad to accept a bonus.” The primary concern now lies below the professional level. All six Spanish football betting alerts from the current season originated in non-professional football, where oversight can be weaker and players may face greater external pressures. 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) -   Aristocrat Leisure Ltd reported higher first-half profit for the period ended March 31, 2026, with growth supported by gaming revenue, cost control measures, and a litigation settlement that had already been communicated to investors. Key Highlights Net Profit After Tax and Before Amortisation (NPATA) increased 8.4% to AUD794.0 million, or 16.3% on a constant currency basis. EBITDA from continuing operations reached AUD1.32 billion. The board approved an interim unfranked dividend of AUD0.50 per share. The Aristocrat board authorised an interim unfranked dividend of AUD0.50 per share, equivalent to AUD301 million based on shares issued as of the financial statements date. The dividend record date is May 26, with payment scheduled for July 1. Net profit after tax and before amortisation of acquired intangibles amounted to AUD794.0 million, up from AUD732.6 million in the prior year. At the stated exchange rate, this equates to US$574.4 million. Gaming Remained the Core Profit Driver Aristocrat recorded consolidated revenue of AUD3.03 billion for the half-year. On a reported currency basis, revenue dipped 0.2%, while constant currency growth stood at 6.4%. EBITDA from continuing operations rose 5.6% on a reported basis and 13.1% in constant currency. Gaming generated segment profit of AUD1.06 billion, marking a 3.0% increase, on revenue of AUD1.96 billion. The rest of world gaming segment—which includes casino slot machine sales across Asia-Pacific—produced AUD403.7 million in revenue, up 18.3%. EBITDA in this category climbed 22.0% to AUD184.1 million, despite a decline in unit shipments to 2,799 from 2,964. Aristocrat now reports under three main divisions: gaming, Product Madness, and interactive. The interactive division encompasses gaming systems, iLottery, iGaming and sports betting, white-label iGaming platforms, content offerings, and aggregation services. The company restructured its digital reporting framework during the financial year ending September 30, 2025. Net debt was AUD948.6 million as of March 31, representing a 123.1% increase compared to the previous year. Analysts Donald Carducci and Michael James from JP Morgan Securities Australia Ltd highlighted one notable item in the results: "Worth noting is the AUD45 million of litigation settlement proceeds." The proceeds stemmed from intellectual property litigation involving Dragon Train against Light & Wonder Inc. The analysts clarified that this figure was recorded above the line, had already been disclosed at the February annual general meeting update, and was included in their estimates. Trevor Croker, chief executive and managing director of Aristocrat, commented: "Aristocrat delivered a strong first half, demonstrating clear progress across all business areas and gaining market share in key segments." He further added: "Our earnings growth reflects disciplined execution, robust revenue momentum across our portfolio, and continued emphasis on efficiency and operational leverage." Aristocrat also announced the proposed appointment of Michael Rumbolz as a non-executive director, effective July 1, subject to regulatory approvals. Rumbolz previously served as executive chairman of Everi Holdings Inc until July of the prior year and currently serves as a director of Vici Properties Inc and on the board of managers of Seminole Hard Rock International, LLC. Croker stated: "Michael brings more than 45 years of industry experience within the gaming sector, and we are honoured to welcome someone of his expertise to the Aristocrat board." This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.