Author: hkchacha

(AsiaGameHub) - The decision by CyLimit, a cycling-focused web 3 startup, to become the first JONUM operator to submit its regulatory declaration to France’s Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ) has highlighted a company that most industry observers would have anticipated being first in line. Naturally, when discussing web 3, NFTs and fantasy betting, that company is Sorare. However, to date, the former unicorn has yet to submit its own declaration to the nation's gambling regulator. With the JONUM legal framework finally launching in France, SBC-Gaming&Co sought to understand why the leading web 3 fantasy betting firm in the sector wasn't the first to file a regulatory declaration, enabling it to commence operations as swiftly as possible in full compliance with its 'home' country's regulations. A Sorare spokesperson stated that there was "no delay and we are in ongoing and constructive discussions with the ANJ at the moment". The company is also "taking the time to finalise the dossier properly and we will make the JONUM declaration promptly". "Our approach is to ensure that the submission is complete and robust from the outset," they added, "the application file is comprehensive and requires a significant amount of detailed information to be provided". Nevertheless, there are several factors that could be weighing on the minds of Sorare's leadership, and while they aren't directly connected to its French operations, it's inconceivable that the company wouldn't be conscious of them. UK court case The first is a case filed against the company by the UK Gambling Commission, scheduled to begin on 15 June. The commission is suing Sorare for providing what it deems to be illegal gambling products without a licence to UK consumers. A subsequent question for Sorare therefore is: if it declares that it operates as a JONUM company in France (where users purchase cards of football players as NFTs, with their value fluctuating based on the on-pitch performances of the players' teams), could it be concerned that this amounts to admitting it is a real money gambling company? Not at all, says the company: "The JONUM framework should not be interpreted, in any way, as an admission that Sorare operates as a real money gambling company. The JONUM framework is actually recognising the unique nature of our activity and explicitly confirms that it falls outside the scope of gambling regulations. "This clarification provides an essential level of legal certainty, strengthens the confidence of our partners, investors and community, and represents a key step for the sustainable development of our model." EU questions A second issue centres on European legal questions. Claire Pinson-Bessonet, a former ARJEL executive and now a public affairs and gaming lawyer, observed on LinkedIn that the European Commission has asked France how the JONUM framework aligns with the European eCommerce Directive of 2000, which permits the free movement of information services between EU Member States. French lawmakers responded that the legislation fell under "the exemption of 'real money gambling activities' provided for in the eCommerce Directive, which therefore does not apply to JONUM". In other words, the EU directive does not apply to JONUMs because those products fall under the real money gambling exemption, which the directive doesn't cover. "But in that case why did they (France) introduce specific legislation for JONUMs if the French authorities consider them to be games of chance?", added Pinson-Bessonet. Interestingly, that appears to be what the Gambling Commission will attempt to prove in its court case against Sorare in June. SBC-Gaming&Co asked Pinson-Bessonet if the EC enquiry about the eCommerce Directive suggests France considers that JONUMs are covered by the gambling exemption. "Yes it is," she said, "hence the line between JONUMs and gambling remains very thin. And when it launched the experimentation in February, the regulator stressed that it would be very attentive to any cross-over." Market realities Equally significant, however, have been Sorare's business decisions. From expending substantial sums on marketing and partnership agreements with top-tier football clubs in the English Premier League and France's Ligue 1, to occupying a space where the company fails to attract the high-spending VIPs that frequent many crypto sportsbooks while its own customers don't produce sufficient volumes to support its ambitions, Sorare has encountered difficulties and fallen short of the hype surrounding its early days, when it was valued at over $4bn. For the French authorities, the entire project has also proved disappointing and consumed legislative bandwidth that could have been deployed far more effectively on other crucial issues – online casino regulation being a clear example. Aside from the bespoke regulatory treatment it received, for now the JONUM vertical will have little impact on France's real money gambling stakeholders; the market will also determine whether the self-declared JONUM operators succeed or fail. Meanwhile, ANJ is embarking on a three-year regulatory experimentation period during which it will monitor companies like Sorare. How many will have entered or exited the market by 2029 remains to be seen. 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) - Top digital sports media group Better Collective has announced the appointment of Thomas Plenborg as chair of its board of directors during its latest annual general meeting. Plenborg will take up the high-profile role after his predecessor chose not to run for re-election. Plenborg Succeeds Departing Jens Bager Plenborg is already well acquainted with Better Collective’s operations, having become a member of the company’s board in 2025. In his new role as board chair, he takes over from Jens Bager, who opted not to seek re-election, wrapping up almost 10 years of service with the firm. Per statements from Better Collective, this appointment comes as the company aims to enter a new stage of strategic growth. Plenborg will be expected to draw on his extensive experience to guide the company forward and deliver greater value for its shareholders. Better Collective noted that Plenborg is a highly seasoned professional who currently works as a professor at the Department of Accounting of Copenhagen Business School. He also serves as board chair at DSV, a firm he helped grow from a regional operator into a dominant global leader in the transport and logistics space. Plenborg’s core expertise includes driving considerable shareholder value through sound strategic planning and M&A campaigns. Along with approving Plenborg’s appointment as board chair, shareholders also voted to re-elect vice chair Therese Hillman, as well as returning René Efraim Rechtman, Leif Nørgaard, Britt Ingrid Boeskov and Todd Dunlap to their seats on the board. Plenborg Eager to Support Better Collective’s Next Stage of Growth Speaking on his appointment, Plenborg thanked Better Collective’s leadership and shareholders for their trust, as well as his predecessor for his hard work building the company’s governance structure, setting its strategic direction and paving its growth path. Plenborg added that he is excited to begin working with the company’s management team and fellow board members to scale the business even further. I now look forward to working closely with the management team and my fellow Board members to continue developing Better Collective for the benefit of all our stakeholders, including our customers, partners, employees and shareholders. Thomas Plenborg, chair, Better Collective Jesper Søgaard, co-founder and co-chief executive officer of Better Collective, also expressed his delight at Plenborg taking on the board chair role. He stated that the company’s team has long trusted Plenborg’s deep financial and strategic expertise, and is counting on him to help Better Collective solidify its status as a leading sports media provider. His [Plenborg’s] experience with globally-leading companies will be invaluable as we continue our work towards becoming the leading digital sports media group. Jesper Søgaard, co-founder & co-CEO, Better Collective A couple of months ago, Better Collective announced that its ownership of its own share capital had hit the 5% mark. At the time of that announcement, the company stated that it was evaluating a possible share capital reduction. 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) - According to a new report from Citizens Equity Research analyst Jordan Bender, which utilizes anonymized wallet data from the tracking platform Juice Reel, retail participants on prediction market platforms are experiencing poorer outcomes than those using legal US sportsbooks. Study Shows Prediction Markets Users Lose More The research indicated that the median return on investment for prediction market users stood at -8% from July 2025 onward. This contrasts with a median ROI of -5% for bettors on legal US sportsbooks during the same timeframe and a figure of -7% in an earlier iteration of the report. The analysis also looked at users active on both types of platforms. This group showed a median ROI of +1% on sportsbooks compared to -6% on prediction markets, suggesting to Bender that these individuals might represent less profitable customers for conventional betting firms. Additionally, during Q4 2025 earnings calls, gaming executives projected that prediction markets represented between 0% and 5% of diverted sports betting activity, a range that corresponds with Citizens' own estimate of 5%. Earlier this month, Bender published a separate report arguing that betting data providers stand to gain significantly from the growth of prediction markets. Who Is Using Prediction Market Platforms? Bender’s report cited a discussion hosted by Citizens featuring two professional bettors, who noted that prediction markets present a promising avenue for profits since retail users typically take the opposite position. One participant stated that being positioned against the general public is optimal, characterizing market-making as very appealing and comparing the situation to running platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel. Using Sensor Tower data, the report also noted that 24% of Kalshi users are under 25, and the company has a median user age of 31. By comparison, the median age is 35 for both DraftKings and FanDuel. It was also emphasized that approximately 90% of DraftKings’ revenue comes from users aged 30 and above. The report also suggested a possible slowdown in acquiring new customers, observing that app downloads for FanDuel and DraftKings fell by 18% and 13%, respectively, from September 2025 to February 2026. In that same period, Kalshi achieved 6.3 million downloads, and its user base, which skews younger, may be a factor in that expansion. It is important to mention that while Bender’s report provides valuable details on the spending behaviors and demographics of prediction market users, it is not the initial study to assert that these users incur greater losses than traditional sports bettors. Similar findings have been reported before, and Kalshi has contested the notion that its regular users lose money more quickly than those on standard sports betting platforms. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Tensions are rising following a security incident at the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), as a German cybersecurity expert now asserts possession of confidential data from one of Europe’s primary gambling regulators. Earlier this month, the authority confirmed it had identified unauthorized system access, implemented containment protocols, and initiated an internal probe. The MGA Manages Comprehensive Data on Licensees For several days, the event appeared to be a routine cyberattack typical of the online gaming industry. That changed when Lilith Wittmann claimed responsibility via social media posts on LinkedIn and X, stating she had already distributed sensitive documents to journalists and government bodies. The collected information has been provided to media outlets and officials. We intend to reveal the organized crime networks you have facilitated while masquerading as a “legitimate public entity.” Lilith Wittmann In her posts, Wittmann suggested connections between licensed gambling firms and organized crime, though she has yet to provide public proof. If validated, these allegations could significantly disrupt the online betting industry. As a central regulatory body for hundreds of operators, the MGA maintains a vast licensing network and likely holds extensive records on corporate ownership and compliance audits. I am confident that the data gathered is of such public importance that its acquisition will eventually be viewed as a vital necessity in the near future. Lilith Wittmann The full extent of the data leak remains unclear. The regulator has not clarified if the breach involved personal information, financial details, or internal memos, nor has it revealed how long the systems were compromised. This ambiguity has kept industry stakeholders on high alert, as any exposure of regulatory records could carry heavy legal and reputational risks. Malta’s Standing in the Industry May Be at Risk Wittmann’s tactics have intensified the focus on the incident. She warned that any legal action against her would result in a broader release of the stolen data. The outcome depends heavily on the MGA's next steps. Malta enforces strict punishments for hacking state entities, potentially leading to international legal disputes and extradition requests. I trust that German authorities will exercise wisdom and refuse to extradite me to Malta, where I could face a decade in prison for hacking a public institution. Lilith Wittmann The breach has also highlighted Malta’s role in the global gambling sector. The nation is known for a regulatory environment that balances oversight with business incentives. Nevertheless, some critics argue that the rapid growth of the industry is straining the limits of supervision, particularly regarding cross-border operations. Currently, the industry is waiting to see if Wittmann will follow through on her threats and what the data actually reveals. While a minor leak regarding security flaws might be manageable, a widespread release of sensitive corporate data could create a very different scenario for the MGA and the companies it regulates. 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 visiting the Thunder Valley Casino Resort in California has won a substantial $100K jackpot from one of the slot machines at the venue. This prize marked the casino’s eighth payout exceeding $100K for the year 2026. Thunder Valley Casino Resort Player Won $100K from Slot Thunder Valley Casino Resort, a tribal casino situated in northern California, announced the win on its Facebook page, extending congratulations to the fortunate winner. The prize was reported on March 20, with casino representatives confirming it was won on a Buffalo Link slot machine. One lucky guest stampeded into spring with a $100,125 jackpot win on Buffalo Link! Thunder Valley Casino Resort The casino resort, located in close proximity to Sacramento, has now awarded a total of eight prizes valued at over $100K in 2026 alone, underscoring its reputation as a destination where visitors frequently experience wins. Thunder Valley Casino Resort shared an image displaying the winning screen and the ceremonial check, indicating that the prize was secured with a $250 wager. Comments on Facebook quickly noted that this was a significant bet and that the player reportedly had only $60 in their account at the time of the winning spin. Four Card Poker Player Won $167K at the Same Casino Just a few days prior to this slot machine win, a player enjoying Four Card Poker at Thunder Valley Casino Resort secured a prize of $167,448. A photograph from the event showed that the successful player achieved this win with a royal flush. In separate news, a visitor at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas achieved significant winnings by hitting two jackpots on the same game. These included a $21,150 win from a $2.50 bet, along with an additional $34,000 win. In total, this player took home $55,150. 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) - Digitain has expanded its footprint in the Balkans through securing two key licences in Bulgaria. The gaming technology provider now holds both a manufacturer licence and an importer licence, issued by Bulgaria’s national regulator, the National Revenue Agency. Both certifications will allow Digitain to grow its market share in Bulgaria further, by offering local partners a broader yet fully compliant suite of products and tools. The manufacturer licence permits the company to offer custom in-house developed products built specifically to match the needs of the Bulgarian market. Meanwhile, the importer licence paves the way for distributing third-party products that widen Digitain’s on-ground offering in the country. Digitain has prioritized active expansion across Eastern Europe, identifying the region as a major opportunity to diversify its partnership network through a range of prospective new collaborations. Speaking with SBC News at last year’s SBC Summit Lisbon, Hmayak Arakelyan, Digitain’s regional Head of Sales, said: “When we look at the region country by country, in Greece we partner with Betano, which brings extensive international experience. In Romania, we work with Superbet, who do an excellent job driving innovation across the market. “In every country, we work with one or two major operators that have the technological expertise and innovative teams that shape and influence the wider betting and gaming industry.” These new Bulgarian licences represent the next step in the Armenian tech firm’s pan-European expansion push. They come after the company secured supplier licences in the UK and Isle of Man in February, and signed a partnership deal with Serbian operator AdmiralBet in early March. Commenting on Digitain’s latest milestone, Arshak Muradyan, Group Chief Compliance Officer, added: “Securing both licences in Bulgaria is an important step in strengthening our presence across regulated European markets. “It allows us to deliver both our in-house solutions and a wide range of certified third-party products in full compliance with local regulatory requirements. This dual capability ensures our partners can confidently operate and scale their business in the Bulgarian market with a reliable, fully compliant product offering.” 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) - Following a recent journey to Mesoamerica, Play’n GO has launched another slot, this time inviting players into the realm of Greek mythology. Hope Unleashed Fortune Rises centers on the tale of Pandora's box and the hope found within. Hope Unleashed Fortune Rises Metrics Rows: 4 Reels: 5 Paylines: 20 Volatility: Medium Min/max bet: 0.05/100 Max win: 1,234x Hope Can No Longer Be Contained According to Greek mythology, Pandora succumbed to temptation and opened the infamous box, releasing all sorts of evils into the world. However, she managed to close it before hope could escape. Play’n GO now offers players the opportunity to access this burgeoning hope, which can no longer be contained by the box, as indicated by the game's title. The new game portrays Pandora as a self-assured woman who opened the mystical artifact without needing permission. The game's visuals evoke ancient Greece, with a backdrop depicting an old Greek temple and symbols like urns, scrolls, and harps that suggest ancient mysticism. The experience is enhanced by stray souls that respond to the box's call, creating a visual spectacle and aiding players on their quest. Pandora Herself Will Help Players Find Hope The game's mysterious atmosphere is amplified by Mystery Symbols, which appear as dark boxes on the reels before revealing their contents. Typically, these symbols contain the same icon, though a Mystery Symbol can also reveal a Wild or a Magic Circle Symbol. While Wilds are familiar to experienced slot players, the Magic Circle is a feature that transforms into an expanding Wild in Pandora's likeness, covering an entire reel. In the subsequent spin, this expanding wild shrinks to a small Wild at the bottom of the reel. Meanwhile, Pandora's Box sits to the side, attracting any stray souls that land on the reels. The more souls that appear, the greater the likelihood of this feature activating and awarding one of four jackpots: Mini (x5), Minor (x10), Major (x100), or Grand (x1,000). Additionally, landing 3, 4, or 5 Scatter symbols awards 8, 12, or 15 Free Spins, respectively. This feature can be retriggered and offers players the chance to win substantial prizes. During Free Spins, players can also encounter the Spirit Orb feature, which grants instant prizes. The Myth Endures Because It’s Human Magnus Wallentin, Play’n GO's games ambassador, commented on the new release, highlighting the enduring relevance of Pandora's story. Pandora’s myth endures because it’s human – the need to know, the cost of knowing, and the stubborn spark that survives the fallout. Hope Unleashed Fortune Rises turns that tension into a story players can feel from the first moment. Magnus Wallentin, games ambassador, Play’n GO The game was released on March 24 and is now available for players to enjoy. In other news, Play’n GO recently celebrated the success of its Book of Dead series with a new addition called Book of Dead GO Collect. 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) - Following earlier media speculation, Daniele Cardoso has been officially appointed as the new Secretary of Brazil's betting regulatory body, the Secretariat of Prizes and Bets (SPA). While no official announcement has appeared on the website of the SPA, which operates under the Brazilian Ministry of Finance, the confirmation came from Dario Durigan, the Minister of Finance, via X. Yesterday, Durigan posted on the social media platform, affirming that Cardoso would lead the SPA under his supervision. Her appointment occurs at a pivotal juncture for both the Brazilian betting industry and its regulatory framework. I am pleased to share news about the Ministry of Finance team. Rogério Ceron will be the new executive secretary. I trust in his ability to deliver, and I highlight that his work at the Treasury was fundamental for us to advance our agenda in recent years. — Dario Durigan (@DarioDurigan) March 23, 2026 Previously, Regis Dudana served as Secretary of the SPA from April 2024, where he oversaw the introduction of the regulated betting market, locally referred to as ‘Bets,’ in January 2025. He was subsequently promoted to Secretary of Economic Reforms in January of the current year. This month, a significant reshuffle within the Ministry led to Fernando Haddad, the Minister of Finance, stepping down from his position to pursue the governorship of Sao Paulo state. This move is a crucial goal for Brazil's governing Workers Party (PT), led by President Lula da Silva. Durigan was then promoted to Minister of Finance earlier this month, succeeding Haddad. He has now definitively confirmed Cardoso's appointment to lead the regulatory efforts for Brazil's nascent betting industry. Cardoso assumes this leadership position amidst an intense political discourse surrounding betting in Brazil, as numerous policymakers, including President Lula, adopt an increasingly adversarial stance towards the sector. President Lula, who initially approved the launch of the Bets market on January 1, 2025, in late December 2024, has since grown considerably more critical of the regulated industry and its broader societal effects. Furthermore, he has actively pursued increased tax revenues from the sector, ultimately achieving his objective with the approval of a tax rate hike on gross gaming revenue (GGR) from 12% to 18% by 2027. Concurrently, the domestic industry remains engaged in an arduous struggle against Brazil's persistent grey and black markets. The sector now confronts impending taxes, political examination concerning aspects such as marketing, and the evolving landscape of prediction markets. Kalshi, recognized as one of the two largest global prediction platforms alongside Polymarket, recently established operations in Brazil. Nevertheless, it remains uncertain which regulatory body—either the SPA or the Brazilian Securities and Exchange Commission—will oversee these platforms. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - IGT, a leading slot machine manufacturer, is preparing to let go of approximately 10% of its workforce. Company officials stated that this step will help the firm focus on its current priorities by streamlining operations. IGT Reduces Its Workforce by a Significant Margin According to the announcement, the layoffs will result in IGT cutting around 700 workers across its global office network. This equals roughly 10% of the company’s total employees and comes as it works to build a more focused operational foundation. CEO Hector Fernandez announced the layoffs in a letter distributed to company employees, explaining that the move is necessary to align the company’s resources with its business priorities. Fernandez emphasized that this is critical for IGT, which continues to pursue ambitious growth goals. Fernandez added that since taking on the CEO role, he has aimed to position the company for further growth. He stressed his ongoing commitment to evaluating the business and making decisions to strengthen it. As part of that review, we also had to make some difficult decisions about how our organization is structured, and this work has led to a difficult but necessary step. Hector Fernandez, CEO, IGT Fernandez rejected the idea that the layoffs are performance-driven, noting that their ultimate goal is to ensure IGT remains focused and adaptable to industry changes. All Impacted Employees to Receive Severance Packages IGT confirmed that severance packages are being offered to all employees facing layoffs. Fernandez explained that everyone leaving IGT as part of this initiative will also receive outplacement support and transition resources. He also acknowledged that other team members might feel sad about their colleagues or concerned about the future. While he recognized these emotions as natural, Fernandez said the key is for IGT’s team to move forward together. We came together to build a company that can lead in a rapidly evolving industry, and I remain confident in that opportunity and in the strength of our team. Hector Fernandez, CEO, IGT Fernandez promised that the streamlining efforts will ensure the future IGT continues to drive innovation, execute strategic priorities, and deliver best-in-class services. 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) - Fortuna Entertainment and Endorphina are sounding the alarm over ‘Brand Spoofing’—the imitation of regulated brands and technologies that is spreading across CEE markets with no clear avenues for intervention. Compared to its neighboring countries, the Czech Republic has seen relatively few disruptions in the governance of its gambling sector and licensing processes. The home market panel at the HIPTHER Prague Summit 2026 even praised the oversight provided by the Czech Ministry of Finance (MoF) and Celní Správa, the Customs Authority, in implementing much-needed player protection measures introduced from 2024 onward. In the years since, Czech gambling licenses (both online and retail) have adapted to heightened requirements for public protection, with authorities and license holders working together to exclude up to 700,000 citizens from gambling through the RVO register. However, not all is tranquil along the banks of the Vltava, as Czech industry leaders are raising concerns about a new and growing threat: ‘brand spoofing’. No funny business Jan Holub: Fortuna Entertainment The term might conjure images of fake handbags or cheap counterfeit goods sold at beach resorts, but as criminal networks target online spaces using AI-driven tactics, brand spoofing is far from a trivial issue, according to Jan Holub, Compliance Lead and Member of the Supervisory Board at Fortuna Entertainment. Holub detailed how “bad actors replicate the digital identity of a gambling brand,” copying web assets, domains, user experience (UX) environments, and even customer communications to trick users into “disclosing sensitive information or downloading malicious software.” Aided by AI, Holub has observed the evolution of ‘spoofed environments’ that not only mimic front-end brands but also replicate backend systems. Capitalizing on the brand recognition and marketing efforts of regulated operators, these spoofed platforms can generate high engagement with unsuspecting audiences and rake in millions in illicit funds. “We’ve made progress in the Czech market. But I must highlight brand spoofing as a new danger. In my role at Fortuna, I see fake brands being promoted online via Google, Facebook, and app stores,” Holub stated. “We immediately ask these platforms to take them down, but the response is slow. These fake websites or apps can remain active for two or three weeks.” While cooperation with Czech authorities is strong, Holub questioned the lack of accountability among big tech and media platforms for protecting the intellectual property (IP) of online gambling brands—where enforcement is clearly lacking. A double jeopardy Jan Urbanec – Endorphina These concerns are shared by Jan Urbanec, CEO of Prague-based Endorphina, who noted that spoofing is spreading across markets and rapidly expanding into “the B2B infrastructure of online gambling.” “This poses a double threat to our industry, as the risks are not limited to B2C. These actors can replicate the UX of payment gateways, affiliate websites, CRM processes, and even supplier technologies,” Urbanec explained. As a digital threat, brand spoofing creates multi-layered risks to the stability of regulated markets. Reputational damage occurs quickly and is hard to contain, as consumers often cannot distinguish between a legitimate site and a cloned interface. Addressing this nuanced threat, Urbanec told delegates that Endorphina has tripled its resources to protect IP—emphasizing what he views as regulators’ limited capacity to intervene effectively. “For game developers, there is no meaningful IP protection. We have to monitor every environment, and tracking who is copying our brand, engines, and algorithms is very costly,” he said. Regulators soft on IP protection Gambling regulatory frameworks across Europe, including in the Czech Republic, have largely been designed to identify and block unlicensed operators as standalone entities. They are less equipped to address actors disguising themselves as licensed B2C or B2B incumbents, using brand trust as their primary entry point. Having observed the spread of ‘spoofing’ in the Czech Republic, Holub and Urbanec believe this new AI-driven threat will become a new “health check” for European gambling regulators—one that cannot be addressed through traditional IP blocking alone, as there is growing momentum to strengthen gambling IP protections. As Urbanec concluded: “It’s time to recognize that criminal gangs target gambling for quick profits, while our regulators are focused on rule-making. This must change—we need stronger action on IP and brand enforcement for licensed operators, before it’s too late.” 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) - Panama is enhancing its national policies concerning problem gambling in response to the expanding online gambling sector. The National Assembly has approved a bill, introduced by deputies Raúl Pineda and Crispiano Adames, which introduces several regulations for online casinos. These measures are intended to provide an additional layer of protection for vulnerable individuals susceptible to problem gambling. A key provision of the bill establishes a mandatory 10% levy on operator earnings. These funds will be directed to the Institute of Mental Health (INSAM) to support the development of problem gambling programs and a specialized care center within Panama. The bill also mandates the implementation of an obligatory biometric identification system across online platforms to prevent underage participation. Furthermore, advertising is set to face significant restrictions. Gambling marketing will be prohibited across various media channels, social media platforms, and sports. The use of public figures and influencers to promote gambling will also be banned. The Gaming Control Board (JCJ) will be responsible for overseeing these restrictions and will be equipped with the necessary tools for real-time detection of violations. Violations of these regulations will result in financial penalties of up to 10% of an operator's revenue, alongside the potential suspension of their license and the initiation of criminal proceedings. Regarding problem gambling education, the bill proposes the introduction of educational programs in schools nationwide. Payment methods will also be restricted to help minimize financial debt and uncontrolled spending. With the National Assembly's endorsement, the bill will now be presented to José Raúl Mulino Quintero, President of Panama, for final approval before it can be enacted. This legislation aligns with a broader trend of increased regulatory and tax framework tightening across Latin America. For instance, Brazil is raising its tax rate on gross gaming revenues (GGR) in its developing gambling market from 12% to 18% by 2027. Tax measures in Colombia and Peru are also causing challenges for operators focused on or interested in Latin America, a region that has long attracted industry attention and was perceived as offering significant opportunities. 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) - Taiwan has successfully dismantled a multi-billion-dollar criminal network that exploited Macau’s casinos to launder illegal funds. Ten individuals have been charged with running the operation and violating Taiwanese law. The Operation Laundered Money via Macau’s Casinos Taiwan’s Criminal Investigation Bureau announced it had shut down the scheme, said to be operated by a 31-year-old man. The ringleader behind the operation is accused of recruiting others to act as money mules and help launder the funds. The criminals are reported to have cleaned illegal proceeds from mainland China through bank transfers. They allegedly used proxy accounts to hide the money’s source, then moved the funds into multiple accounts to exploit credit card overpayment mechanisms and artificially inflate available credit limits. Next, the money mules would travel to Macau, purchase casino chips, gamble briefly, and then cash out. This process effectively laundered the illegal funds, making them appear as money legally earned in Macau. Ten People Have Been Indicted Yesterday, the Yunlin District Prosecutors Office said authorities uncovered nearly $9 billion in laundered funds. Investigators found that $1 billion had been transferred into Taiwan and seized $8 million from various accounts. Other confiscated items included mobile devices, money counters, and multiple credit cards. Members of the money-laundering ring face accusations of violating Taiwan’s gambling and anti-money laundering rules. Officials stressed that the sums they laundered were staggering and that the operation threatened Taiwan’s financial order. The Yunlin District Prosecutors Office vowed to continue protecting financial order from cross-border financial crime and punish all types of illegal financial activity. The office added it would use all resources to prevent criminal groups from evading legal penalties through overseas operations. Taiwan Busted a $1B Illegal Gambling Operation This is not the first time criminal gangs have exploited financial systems to generate illegal income. Earlier this year, Taiwanese authorities cracked down on an illegal gambling operation that posed as a diner. The operation had found ways to move money to and from illegal gambling websites while avoiding safeguards. This allowed visitors to the den to deposit and withdraw funds to the illegal sites and participate in gambling. Later, the operation’s mastermind launched his own online gambling website, which processed nearly $1 billion in transactions. 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 Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine has announced a new reform it intends to implement alongside the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, effectively banning military personnel from gambling. The thinking behind this decision is simple: to boost morale and prevent service members from falling victim to a potentially harmful habit—one that could erode their combat readiness and have deeper strategic consequences for Ukraine’s military, which has been at war with Russia since February 2022. Ukraine Aims to Block Vulnerable Players and Military Personnel from Gambling In a statement, the ministry said, “We are continuing our systematic fight against gambling addiction. Our goal is to protect service members and their families from the risks and impacts of problem gambling. To do this, together with the Ministry of Defense, we are creating a mechanism to limit defenders’ participation in gambling during martial law.” The ministries will introduce a mandatory verification process that checks if a casino user is on a self-exclusion list or in the military. Any matches will result in the account holder being blocked from playing further. While this initiative is welcome and serves as a reasonable safeguard, its success will also depend on how well those denied access to gambling operators are monitored and supported afterward. Many gambling websites have been set up on both sides of the frontline, with the stated goal of pushing more people into reckless gambling. Concerns Persist Even With Safeguards in Place Though Ukraine has largely acted against such sites, service members with a gambling urge may still turn to unlicensed and predatory websites that worsen their condition. For this reason, any measures the ministries adopt should address this issue. A worry that military information could be leaked to operators has already been tackled, as the verification system will not explicitly state why someone was banned from playing. PlayCity will oversee the reform’s rollout, with the newly launched regulator having already blocked 2,500 illegal gambling websites in 2025 alone. 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) - Sportradar, a leading global sportstech company, has unveiled a major broadening of its iGaming offering through the establishment of a new business unit. The Switzerland-headquartered multinational has introduced Playradar, a brand dedicated to iGaming that will create cross-vertical gaming products designed for international betting and gaming operators. Sportradar has signaled its intention to grow its iGaming proposition for some time. CEO Carsten Koerl, for instance, discussed the sector's potential for the company during Sportradar's 2025 earnings calls. This move is not Sportradar's first foray into iGaming but represents a scaling up of its current involvement. The company has been exploring iGaming products, conducting a trial in the Brazilian market the previous year. The debut of Playradar signifies the subsequent phase in this strategic initiative. The new unit is designed to bridge Sportradar's iGaming goals with its traditional emphasis on sports technology and betting data. It comprises three primary components: a round-the-clock live experience center, a division for hybrid content merging live and historical sports with casino elements, and a premium iGaming content division. These three areas seek to integrate sports viewing with gaming for engagement or real-money betting, fuse live and historical sports streams with casino-style gameplay, and deliver virtual sports and casino games on a unified platform. "iGaming is a logical and expandable addition to our business and a strategic step to accelerate our long-term growth plan," Koerl stated regarding the Playradar launch. "Playradar content is engineered to optimize cross-selling between sports and casinos, assisting operators in boosting player value and session duration at a time when engagement and retention are crucial for operational sustainability." Brazil trials pave way for major 2026 rollout Sportradar is a major force in the sportstech and data arena, specializing in supplying betting and streaming data to licensed operators. Its significant client roster includes Flutter Entertainment's FanDuel, DraftKings, and evoke's William Hill. Last year, the company greatly extended its sports data footprint—a highly competitive field it shares with rivals such as Genius Sports and Stats Perform—through the acquisition of IMG Arena from Endeavour Holdings. With its position in sports data solidified, Sportradar's pursuit of new growth avenues was expected. Last year, it became clear the company was focusing on two areas: predictions markets and iGaming. Discussing the Brazilian iGaming tests on the Q3 2025 earnings call, Koerl explained: "After client acquisition, they enter the sports betting ecosystem. We offer the full suite of products there, from basic data feeds to comprehensive risk management or the entire platform. "Using AI, we can redirect that customer into the iGaming space, supply them with suitable products, gauge engagement and churn, and utilize retention tools featuring visualization in the process." Leveraging the Brazilian experiments, Playradar will initially target regulated markets in North America, Latin America, and the UK. A series of game launches across these regions is scheduled for 2026, including virtual sports, table games, arcade games, and slots. Edo Haitin will lead Playradar as Sportradar's new Executive Vice President of iGaming. Haitin was selected for his deep expertise in live casino, having served as Managing Director of Live Casino at Playtech from 2019 to 2022 and as CEO of Playtech Live from 2022 to 2025. Edo Haitin, EVP of iGaming at Sportradar – Source: Sportradar Haitin commented: "By merging our unmatched expertise in sports data and live streaming with a demonstrated history of product development, we intend to build hybrid content and gaming experiences that tap into the growing trend of sports-casino consumption. "Our unique position allows us to effortlessly combine live and historical sports events, innovative game mechanics, and casino content, and we benefit from the ability to distribute games to an existing network of licensed operators. "I am tremendously excited to further bolster our iGaming operations via Playradar and develop it into a top-tier iGaming content provider, utilizing Sportradar's current assets and the adept, seasoned team already assembled." Koerl concluded: "In Edo, we have a seasoned and accomplished industry executive to lead the business forward, backed by an enthusiastic and committed team." 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) - Denys Parkhomenko, Chief Product Officer at GR8 Tech, explains how operators can use technology to effectively tailor their offerings for this summer’s World Cup. The difference between providing a uniform experience and truly customizing for each region, he notes, can mean the difference between success and failure during this high-stakes event. The World Cup is sure to drive traffic to nearly every sportsbook. What’s not guaranteed is the amount of value operators can extract from that traffic—and that’s what every operator aims to maximize. That’s where localization comes into play. While the event is global, player behavior isn’t. How users navigate, place bets, react to offers, and remain engaged varies by market. Brands that offer a single generic experience across all markets will still capture the traffic surge from the World Cup’s biggest matches. But brands that tailor the UX, messaging, and engagement flow to local player behavior will generate more revenue from the same event. How player behavior changes regionally In certain markets—particularly parts of LatAm—World Cup engagement is fueled by speed and simplicity. Players seek a streamlined, football-focused experience, live odds, and quick access to the bet slip, especially during high-pressure match periods when attention rapidly shifts from one game to another. Expectations differ in other markets. European audiences often respond better to greater betting depth during the tournament, including specialty markets, micro-markets, and more detailed bet-building. In those regions, providing more options can boost engagement instead of causing friction. The same trend holds for retention during the tournament. In some regions, operators see better results with prominent promotions, missions, streaks, and CRM prompts linked to daily World Cup moments—like kickoffs, key wins, upsets, and knockout games. In others, retention relies less on heavy promotion stacking and more on product trust: seamless performance, fast payouts, and timely updates about the biggest matches. MENA markets, for example, often react more positively to bold design and robust bonus structures, while some SEA markets—where in-play betting plays a major role—need a World Cup experience centered on real-time odds updates, fast bet placement, and tools like Bet Builder. What operators should localize for World Cup performance Above all, operators should localize the aspects of the experience that directly impact player actions and repeat engagement. Start with UI prioritization. Decide what deserves the most visibility in each market during the tournament: live betting, bet builder, key matches, or specific market types. Small front-end choices can have a big impact when traffic is high and attention spans are short. Next, focus on promotional messaging. The same offer won’t perform equally across all regions if it’s framed in a generic way. Messaging should reflect the local tone, be relevant, and address what actually motivates players in that market to click, deposit, or return. CRM strategies should also be built around tournament milestones instead of fixed schedules. Before kickoff, during matchdays, after major upsets, and following eliminations, communication should shift based on where the player is in their World Cup journey. Adapting bonus and mission structures is also worthwhile. In some markets, matchday rewards may be more effective. In others, streaks, quests, or tournament-long challenges can do more to encourage repeat play. Lastly, operators should localize retention efforts post-match and post-tournament. The World Cup creates a natural traffic spike, but keeping players engaged depends on what comes next—whether it’s the next round, another football event, or fostering a broader sportsbook habit beyond football. Localization without platform complexity with GR8 Tech You don’t need to completely overhaul your platform to effectively localize for the World Cup. With GR8 Tech’s Sportsbook via iFrame, operators can still adjust the elements of the experience that most directly impact performance: UI priorities, market visibility, promotional framing, and CRM journeys. That’s important because much of World Cup localization is about execution. Geo-targeted CRM lets operators run different matchday prompts, missions, retention flows, and post-match follow-ups by market—all while keeping launch timelines tight. In that way, the iFrame model isn’t just a quick path to market; it also provides operators with a practical way to localize the player experience for the tournament without delaying deployment. The World Cup is global, but performance is local The operators who will benefit most from the tournament are those who use it to enhance business results, not just drive traffic. That translates to higher conversion rates on matchdays, better retention between games, and less churn after the final. The value lies in adapting the experience for each market—even if the core sportsbook remains unchanged. 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) - Allwyn has now invested over £450 million in modernising the National Lottery since taking over the operating licence in 2024. The company has described this as the most significant overhaul of the lottery since its inception in 1994, aiming to secure its future growth in the digital age. It's worth noting that the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) initiated an investigation last year, citing a potential breach of contract due to the delayed full implementation of planned updates beyond the agreed deadline. Although the investigation's findings have not yet been officially released, Allwyn has stated that the £450 million investment "satisfies the UKGC as the requirements for Fully Implemented Commencement as detailed under the Enabling Agreement have been achieved". The National Lottery experienced several temporary shutdowns to facilitate the rollout of these updates. In August of the previous year, Allwyn took the lottery offline to conduct a large-scale operation to replace outdated lottery terminals in over 40,000 locations across the country. Another substantial change occurred in January, when both the National Lottery website and its mobile applications were unavailable for 24 hours while Allwyn implemented modifications to the lottery's digital interface. These updates included a user experience redesign and the crucial integration of new player safety features. These enhancements feature mandatory personal deposit and spending limits, automatic hourly logouts during gameplay, and safer gambling messages for instant games. Financially, the first year under Allwyn's operation saw sales increase to £8.1 billion, a 3.5% rise year-on-year. Digital channel sales accounted for half of this total, amounting to £4.1 billion. Allwyn reported that 12 million individuals are now engaging with the National Lottery digitally. Furthermore, 2025 marked the first time in the lottery's history that digital sales surpassed retail sales, representing 51% of the total. The UKGC also acknowledged the National Lottery's popularity among UK consumers, with recent market analysis indicating it generates the second-highest Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) after online gaming. Finally, Allwyn's lottery enhancements resulted in over £1.7 billion being generated for Good Causes in 2025, averaging £33 million per week. The company remains optimistic about achieving its target of £60 million per week in Good Causes contributions by the conclusion of its licence in 2034. Andria Vidler, Chief Executive Officer of Allwyn UK, commented: “Allwyn is committed to restoring the magic to The National Lottery and delivering long-term growth. Being the guardian of this unique UK institution is a privilege and a responsibility we take incredibly seriously. “We are delighted to have delivered growth to The National Lottery while successfully completing the largest international upgrade in lottery history. This is a hugely exciting time for The National Lottery and its players, as these much-needed upgrades now allow us to launch new games and products, meaning we can generate more money than ever before for Good Causes.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - In July of last year, a former Atlantic City Trump Plaza Hotel and Casino manager stated he had witnessed President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein together at the casino property, accompanied by underage girls. Epstein's ties to the gambling industry seemingly extended even deeper. The troubling Epstein Files uncovered an email from an investigative journalist to withdrawn recipients, which provided information on how the controversial financier and convicted sex offender allegedly won a Powerball jackpot. Currently, a contentious post on X, which has amassed millions of views, claims that on July 2, 2008, Epstein won an $85 million Powerball jackpot. Controversy Over the Zorro Trust Name The winning Powerball numbers for that drawing were 4, 33, 46, 48, 52, with 17 as the red Powerball, with an $85 million jackpot. The ticket was purchased in Oklahoma and featured a one-time cash option of $41.3 million. The assertion from the X account that revived the lottery win speculation about the controversial, deceased criminal was examined by Grok, the artificial intelligence assistant developed by xAI, to assess the claims. Grok ultimately verified that the Zorro Trust had collected the $85 million jackpot as a lump-sum payment of approximately $29.3 million after taxes from the July 2, 2008 drawing, for a ticket bought in Altus, Oklahoma. According to Grok, the trust's name corresponds to Epstein's trust associated with his Zorro Ranch in New Mexico. Grok added that based on the Epstein files released by the Department of Justice, the "Zorro Trust (belonging to Epstein)" had won the jackpot. The AI assistant also confirmed that lottery officials at that time adhered to standard protocol, permitting anonymity via trust formation. Additionally, the social media platform's AI assistant noted that no fraud was substantiated. "The Name Was Simply a Coincidence" Brice Gordon, Epstein's ranch manager, was reportedly the trustee of the trust and the individual who signed the documents required to claim the prize, though this assertion has not been officially verified. More controversially, when the AI assistant was asked a separate question about how many times Epstein had won the lottery, it provided a contradictory response, stating that Epstein had never won the lottery. Although the 2008 Oklahoma Powerball jackpot was claimed by a Zorro Trust to maintain anonymity, local news reports from that period indicated the winner was a grocery store worker from Altus. The winner had apparently given her trust the same name as Epstein's Zorro entity for his New Mexico ranch. "The identical name was purely coincidental. References in recent files are unverified notes, not evidence. There are no recorded wins." Epstein's Zorro Ranch in Stanley was situated over 400 miles from Altus. New Mexico has participated in Powerball since 1996. 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 veteran adviser to Estonia's Riigikogu Chancellery, fired due to a clerical mistake in the Gambling Tax Act, plans to appeal her dismissal. The official, identified by Estonian broadcaster Eesti Rahvusringhääling (ERR) as Piia Schults, stated she is deeply affected by her "terrible" error but views it as her "duty to bring the matter before a court". The legislation was approved last December, leading to online casinos being tax-exempt in 2026 as Estonia aims to position itself as an iGaming centre. The mistake, which has now been corrected, was discovered in January and attributed to Schults. Estonia's tax on remote gambling will decrease from 6% to 4% by 2029, then fall by 0.5% each subsequent year, with all revenue directed to culture and sports. Nevertheless, the error has had significant consequences, with the state expected to forfeit around €4m (£3.45m) in anticipated gambling tax income this year. However, Schults, who maintained an excellent reputation across more than thirty years of service without prior criticism, is consulting a lawyer to fight the decision. She informed ERR that she considers the case "fundamentally a question of principles". "I must contest this. Maybe it will motivate other colleagues as well," she remarked. "You simply cannot treat an individual like this. I will contest this for everyone, with my colleagues and Estonian society in mind." "I believe the public has a right to be aware of events in the public sector. We are not isolated units – we all coexist here in small Estonia, visible to each other." Chancellery Director Antero Habicht issued a written statement to the national outlet regarding the matter. "Considering all factors, this action was inevitable and required; continuing a trust-based relationship was no longer feasible," he stated. "Given that the official intends to seek legal recourse to protect her rights, we deem it inappropriate to offer further public commentary. "Formal dismissal procedures are always a final measure. Typically, issues are addressed confidentially and resolved through discussion. We will not comment on any previous errors in this instance." Hurdles for Estonia's iGaming Ambitions This development is the most recent in a string of incidents concerning Estonia's gambling sector in recent months. The nation seeks to become a recognised iGaming hub, as noted, emulating models adopted by jurisdictions such as Malta, Gibraltar, and the Isle of Man. By 2029, its remote gambling tax will be lower than Malta's 5%, which could attract more operators to establish operations there. Yet, this episode reveals ongoing issues with transparency in the process. When asked about Schults' firing, Finance Minister and Estonian Reform Party member Jürgen Ligi commented: "It certainly appears unjust. But what is the Reform Party's connection to this, and why is Isamaa party involved? "The relevant draft law – the Gambling Tax Act – was not something I endorsed, yet a technical error happened under considerable pressure. Meetings with officials were largely held at the Riigikogu and online. "A minor deletion mistake happened, resulting in an extra word remaining. However, I do not believe a person should be severely punished for that." This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.