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(AsiaGameHub) - GG.BET is fully confident that its latest feature will help the brand distinguish itself in the fiercely competitive esports betting market, a company representative told SBC News. The Kyiv-based esports betting technology firm unveiled Popular Bets yesterday, a dedicated section on its website that displays pre-built bets based on trending matches and markets. Betters using the platform can select their preferred combination, which is then automatically added to their betslip. The company believes the feature will help users make faster decisions by seeing which selections are most popular among other platform users. “Popular Bets was created to genuinely improve the betting experience for a broad range of audiences,” GG.BET’s spokesperson told SBC News. “For newer users, this feature removes the barrier of having to independently analyse markets and build bets from scratch — something that can feel challenging on a platform with such a wide selection of sports and esports events as GG.BET. “For more experienced users, it offers a convenient way to quickly place bets on popular matches without having to complete the full manual selection process. “In both cases, the recommendation algorithm guarantees that the suggested combinations reflect real activity taking place on the platform. This means users see relevant, up-to-date options based on actual popularity rather than random or template-generated selections.” GG.BET is an esports-focused betting platform, operating in the rapidly growing, highly competitive space alongside a number of other companies — though it also offers full betting solutions for traditional sports. The global esports sector has exploded in value over recent years, and esports betting has grown right alongside it. Various industry studies have placed the global value of the esports betting space in the billions, for example, a 2026 report from ResearchAndMarkets.com estimates the value will fall somewhere between $2.8bn-$3bn. Like other emerging betting markets, esports has drawn inspiration from more established traditional sectors, such as football. The most notable example of this is the adoption of bet builders, a feature offered by providers including GG.BET. Bet builders can now be used on esports titles like League of Legends or Valorant in exactly the same way they are used on traditional competitions like the Premier League or LALIGA. “Popular Bets and Bet Builder address different but complementary user needs,” GG.BET’s spokesperson added. “Bet Builder is designed for users who want full control — the ability to combine multiple markets within a single match and build fully customised bets. “In contrast, Popular Bets is built for speed and discovery: users receive ready-made combinations for popular matches that can be added to the bet slip in just one click. “For example, a user may use Popular Bets to quickly join an event and then move on to Bet Builder for deeper customisation of a specific match. In this way, the two tools together accommodate both impulsive and more deliberate betting styles.” The global growth of esports has captured widespread industry attention, and with attention comes increased competition. Esports betting is offered by nearly every major operator, although some B2C firms that have focused solely on esports, or kept it as their lead product, like Rivalary and Esports Entertainment Group (EEG), have run into difficulties over the years. Nonetheless, the sector is expected to keep growing, and this growth will continue to attract new B2B activity. GG.BET competes in the space alongside a number of other B2B industry leaders, but this competition has not weakened the company’s confidence. “GG.BET’s positioning is unique because the platform combines traditional sports betting and esports at an equally high level — not as an afterthought add-on, but as a core part of the product. “Popular Bets reflects this approach by generating combinations based on popular markets across both traditional sports and esports. The recommendation algorithm is based on real user behaviour, so the feature continuously evolves according to audience interests rather than remaining static. “Together with the previously launched Bet Builder, which is also available for both sports and esports, GG.BET is building an ecosystem of features that fits different user interaction scenarios with the product. This is what, in our view, sets the platform apart in a competitive market.” 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 leader of the United States' main derivatives regulator has committed to a comprehensive clampdown on improper behavior in the rapidly growing prediction market industry, as congressional scrutiny over possible abuses and conflicts of interest increases. Lawmakers Clash as CFTC Cracks Down on Insider Trading in Prediction Markets Michael Selig, the chairman of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), informed Congress that his organization is reviewing a significant volume of alleged infractions associated with platforms that allow users to bet on real-world occurrences. These markets, which span political results to economic data, have experienced a major rise in use and now process billions of dollars in trades weekly. At a tense Capitol Hill hearing, Selig emphasized that regulators are adopting a stringent position against illicit activities. He noted that multiple probes are currently in progress and that officials receive a constant stream of information annually. His warning to those involved in the markets was unequivocal: exploiting non-public information or distorting results would lead to severe legal repercussions. The session exposed profound disagreements among legislators. Republican members commended the agency's efforts and inquired about what extra resources could bolster monitoring. Democrats expressed doubts about the adequacy of the existing regulatory structure to manage the sector's swift expansion. Significant focus was placed on the risk of insider trading involving confidential data. Some lawmakers cited precisely timed trades that seemed to foreshadow important global events. Although no direct proof has connected this activity to public officials, detractors contended that the possibility for abuse is still high. Disputes Grow Over Trump Connections and Market Oversight Issues were also raised concerning the links between prediction market companies and people associated with the Trump family. Legislators brought up that Donald Trump Jr. holds advisory and investment roles with leading sector platforms. Selig confirmed knowledge of these relationships but refrained from commenting on their significance, stating that the commission enforces regulations consistently and impartially. Apart from ethical worries, the CFTC's own organizational problems were examined. The commission is functioning with just one confirmed member, even though it is intended to have five. A number of representatives claimed that vesting regulatory power in one person weakens the principle of bipartisan supervision. A further debated issue involved the classification of prediction markets as either financial instruments or a type of gambling. State and tribal governments have resisted federal control, arguing that these platforms are akin to wagering services and should be regulated locally. In contrast, the CFTC maintains that these offerings are derivatives and thus fall within its federal purview. With court challenges proceeding in various jurisdictions, the outlook for prediction markets in the U.S. is unclear. Legislators suggested that new laws may be proposed, and some analysts anticipate the matter will ultimately be decided by the Supreme Court. 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 launch date is confirmed: Alberta's regulated online gambling market will go live on July 13, 2026, marking a major change in the province's approach to the activity. As anticipated, numerous leading operators such as DraftKings and PointsBet have already signaled their plans to participate. DraftKings announced its intention to provide both sports wagering and online casino games, aiming to launch in time for the forthcoming FIFA World Cup, to be held in North America. “Responsible Operators Committed to Player Safety” Service Alberta Minister Dale Nally stated it is positive to see interest from reputable firms, including theScore, especially those prepared to adhere to more stringent regulations. “It is exciting to see that company, along with another online gambling provider, theScore, express interest in joining the market and being ‘responsible operators.’” The province has been developing the online gambling structure since last year, amending laws to permit private companies to offer online betting legally. To date, 32 groups have submitted applications to enter the market, and 20 have already submitted the mandatory $150,000 deposit. “I would say that those 20 companies are committed to player safety, and that’s good news,” Nally said. Focus on Responsible Play A key component of the new framework involves stricter advertising regulations. Operators must guarantee their promotions do not reach underage audiences, and active professional athletes will be prohibited from endorsing gambling. Nevertheless, retired athletes may feature in advertisements emphasizing responsible play. Authorities note the reforms also aim to tackle the substantial unregulated segment, frequently called a grey market, estimated to represent roughly 70% of online gambling in Alberta. Questioned about possible income, Nally affirmed the province will impose taxes on operators but emphasized that safety is the foremost concern. “If there was a red button that I could push that would stop online gambling, I would push that button. But it doesn’t exist,” he said. He added that the province faces a choice between neglecting the problem or implementing protective measures. If the July launch proceeds as scheduled, Alberta will become the second province in Canada to establish a regulated online gambling system, after Ontario, which introduced a comparable framework in 2022. 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 in Connecticut has won $1 million after hitting the top prize on one of the state's scratch-off games. The Player Won One of the Three Top Prizes The CT Lottery has welcomed a new millionaire, as a scratch-off ticket purchased in the state has yielded a million-dollar win. According to the lottery's announcement, a player in Guilford purchased a $20 200X 4th Edition ticket and discovered it was one of the few holding the game's top prize. This marks the second top prize from this game to be claimed by a CT Lottery player. The winning ticket was sold at City Star Mart, located at 500 Boston Post Road in Guilford. The odds of winning this prize were 1 in 800,000, according to official CT Lottery statistics. The lottery's official website indicates that one of the three top prizes remains unclaimed, offering another opportunity for a player to win a million dollars. In addition to the $1 million top prizes, the game also offered four $100,000 prizes, with one of those still available to be claimed. The overall odds of winning any prize in the 200X 4th Edition game, including break-even prizes, are 1 in 3.21. Other Players Across America Won Big In separate lottery news, an Ohio man purchased a lottery ticket during a grocery store visit and ended up winning $3 million. Meanwhile, a resident of Colorado won $1 million from a Powerball ticket, narrowly missing the jackpot. The same drawing also awarded $250,000 to four players due to the 5x Power Play multiplier. 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) - Offshore operator Stake is facing new legal scrutiny with a lawsuit filed this month alleging the company facilitated underage gambling through a combination of influencer marketing and digital payment systems. The case, initiated in New York by the Pensacola law firm Rafferty, Dominick, Cunningham and Yaffa, centers on a young individual who claims to have started gambling on the platform at the age of 13. Underage Gambling Can Have Severe Consequences The law firm characterizes the platform as having a system designed to attract younger users, utilizing online personalities who showcase their winnings and provide referral links and access instructions for individuals in restricted regions. According to the plaintiff, his initial exposure to gambling came through livestreams and social media content that presented high-stakes betting as entertainment rather than a risky activity. Our client’s adolescence was consumed by an addiction that these defendants engineered and profited from. Troy A. Rafferty, shareholder at Rafferty Domnick Cunningham & Yaffa The complaint asserts that Stake permitted US users to circumvent crucial safeguards with minimal to no oversight. The plaintiff reportedly utilized virtual private networks (VPNs) to establish and manage multiple accounts without encountering significant obstacles. Funding these accounts, the lawsuit contends, was simplified through cryptocurrency transactions, including transfers processed via Coinbase. Some of the personal repercussions detailed in the filing are severe. The plaintiff describes his early experiences as initially a casual interest, which evolved into a compulsive pattern resulting in financial losses and permanent psychological damage. The lawsuit also highlights that disruptions to his academic and family life had lasting effects. Stake May Lack Sufficient Safeguards The lawsuit includes legal claims under New York consumer protection laws and allegations of negligence. The plaintiffs are seeking damages and court orders to compel the platform to modify its operational and marketing practices. Given that offshore platforms frequently do not meet the same consumer protection, responsible gaming, or financial transparency standards, enforcement often relies on civil litigation. Stake's popularity is largely attributed to its collaborations with streaming platforms like Kick, where gambling-related content has seen significant growth in recent years. The brand has become a prominent force in online gambling content, with its logo frequently featured in stream titles and sponsorship agreements. Partnerships with artist Drake and streamer Adin Ross have also contributed to Stake's mainstream visibility. Stake.com was paying influencers millions of dollars to bring in the next generation of users. This lawsuit is about accountability, and we intend to see it through. Troy A. Rafferty, shareholder at Rafferty Domnick Cunningham & Yaffa According to critics, this type of exposure blurs the distinction between entertainment and advertising, particularly for younger demographics. Traditional gambling companies are subject to stringent requirements regarding marketing and age verification. In contrast, offshore platforms operate without regulatory oversight from local authorities. This lawsuit may serve to test the willingness of US courts to hold foreign-based platforms accountable for activities involving American users. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Las Vegas authorities have apprehended a second individual in connection with the probe into a November 2025 blast at Piero’s Italian Cuisine, a prominent dining establishment near the Strip. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department took 52-year-old R.S. into custody this week. He is being held at the Clark County Detention Center on several charges, such as conspiracy to commit arson, first-degree arson, and employing an explosive device to damage property. The Motives Behind the Attack Remain Unknown This arrest is the most recent update in an investigation that started in the pre-dawn hours of November 13, 2025. Police were dispatched to the scene on Convention Center Drive following reports of an explosion. An inquiry revealed that an individual had placed a device near the front door. The suspicious item burst into flames and subsequently detonated. Authorities constructed a sequence of events using surveillance video and witness statements. Police accounts indicate two men approached the restaurant in the early morning hours, with one arriving on a scooter. The duo seemed to position the device and then leave promptly. The explosion resulted in visible damage to the building's facade, but no injuries were reported. An initial suspect, 35-year-old J.N., was arrested shortly after the event. He is confronting multiple charges, including the possession and manufacture of an explosive device, as well as arson violations. The detention of R.S. indicates that investigators suspect the act was coordinated, although a motive for the attack has not been established by officials. Piero’s Has a Complicated History Sheriff Kevin McMahill has previously assured the public there is no continuing danger, noting the event seems to have been an isolated occurrence. Nevertheless, the absence of a definitive reason has resulted in lingering questions regarding why the restaurant was singled out. Law enforcement is still examining the evidence and has not discounted the possibility of further arrests. In a separate incident earlier this year, police dealt with a case concerning Evan Glusman, the owner's son. He was accused of sending threatening messages to an employee, which prompted a rapid police intervention culminating in his arrest the next day. That event was probably rooted in a conflict with Glusman's father over a loan issue and is not connected to the bombing. Although Piero’s Italian Cuisine is currently renowned as a cornerstone of the local restaurant industry, it has sometimes been associated with headline-making incidents. In the distant past, its previous location was linked to individuals associated with organized crime. In spite of this history, the establishment has remained a fixture in Las Vegas, popular with tourists, business leaders, and local patrons. 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) - Earlier this week, while speaking at the Semafor World Economy conference in Washington, DC, Tarek Mansour – co-founder and CEO of prediction market firm Kalshi – stated that the company is rolling out new measures to block minors from accessing its platform. Parents will gain the ability to check if their personal information is being used by an unauthorized party to access the trading service. Kalshi’s CEO Unveils New Parent Portal Mansour shared that the company is launching a portal that lets parents submit their identification documents to check if their information is being misused by another person, even if the parents themselves are not Kalshi users. This allows parents to confirm if their children are using their ID to access the platform and take proper action. He added that Kalshi is also adding a mandatory selfie requirement during account registration, and every submitted photo is reviewed by AI to verify the identity of the person signing up. Mansour also noted that Kalshi plans to roll out a feature that allows friends and family members to monitor each other’s betting activity. He explained that the company is developing the concept of “family accounts”, where users can track one another’s activity on the platform. The CEO explained that the goal of this feature is to build a culture of accountability among close personal circles, letting users flag potentially excessive activity. According to Mansour, the company’s core intention is to encourage responsible use of the platform, rather than incentivize overuse. When it comes to limiting underage access to gambling and similar products, New York is currently rolling out new verification tools, including biometric confirmation, that are designed to check if bettors are of legal gambling age before they can create accounts and place wagers. But Who Actually Regulates Kalshi Itself? Prediction markets are regulated at the federal level by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), and all users must be at least 18 years old to participate. Unlike sportsbooks, which are bound by stricter state gaming regulations that require extensive safety safeguards and identity verification measures, prediction markets generally operate under more flexible onboarding requirements. The CFTC does require prediction markets to follow know-your-customer (KYC) rules. However, David Miller, the agency’s director of enforcement, said last month that the agency does not prioritize technical violations in its enforcement work, and instead focuses on parties that intentionally choose to break these rules. As such, Kalshi and other CFTC-regulated prediction markets carry major regulatory obligations. These include verifying all user identities and helping ensure that their platforms are not exploited for insider trading activity. However, this existing regulatory arrangement has often clashed with the views of many state regulators, who typically argue that Kalshi and other prediction market providers should be regulated by state authorities, rather than the CFTC. Montana is one of the latest states to demand Kalshi pull its products from the state, leading to a lawsuit – one of multiple legal disputes that Kalshi is currently entangled in. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Ontario’s online casino market has rapidly ascended to become a leading global market. However, this swift expansion in gaming also necessitates enhanced player protection measures. Consequently, iGaming Ontario has just introduced its new centralized self-exclusion system. BetGuard Will Shield Players from Harm This unveiling took place at the recent Responsible Gambling Council’s RGC Discovery conference in Toronto, where iGaming Ontario presented its new self-exclusion system, BetGuard. Developed in collaboration with Integrity Compliance 360 and Dataworks, this new system is set to provide players across the province with access to a dependable self-exclusion scheme. iGaming Ontario intends to launch its new system in May 2026, which will allow local players to opt out of gambling with all regulated iGaming operators. The organization has committed to making the self-exclusion process straightforward and user-friendly, ensuring players maintain control at all times. BetGuard will offer a range of exclusion periods, extending up to 5 years. A core feature of the scheme is its commitment to preventing excluded players from receiving gaming advertisements and from creating new accounts to resume gambling. All of Ontario’s 82 licensed operators are currently mandated to provide self-exclusion options. While the introduction of BetGuard will not alter this requirement, it will introduce a more comprehensive solution enabling players to exclude themselves from gambling entirely. In addition to being required to participate in the new scheme, operators will be responsible for ensuring its prominent display on their websites. An Overdue Addition to Ontario’s Safer Gaming Arsenal Speaking with Canadian Gaming Business about the forthcoming launch of BetGuard, iGaming Ontario’s CEO, Joseph Hillier, acknowledged that the scheme's introduction was overdue. He emphasized that his team's objective is to ensure players have easy access to safer gaming tools, and that a centralized self-exclusion system is fundamental to achieving this goal. Hillier expressed confidence in BetGuard's effectiveness, stating that it will significantly improve the self-exclusion process by making it faster and more streamlined. He also highlighted the necessity of securing the cooperation of all operators to make this system a reality. In related news, the Ontario government and the Responsible Gambling Council (RGC) recently launched a safer gaming campaign targeting younger men. Titled “Moment of Reflection,” the campaign aims to raise awareness about the risks associated with gaming and to inform individuals about the available safer gaming tools and educational resources for those experiencing difficulties. 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) - Matthew Joyce of California has initiated legal action against Modo Casino, an online sweepstakes platform operated by ARB Interactive, accusing the company of predatory conduct that capitalized on his disability. Joyce Files Lawsuit Against Modo Casino According to the lawsuit, Joyce gambled frequently on the Modo Casino site between September 2024 and April 2025. He claims that throughout this time, he suffered from a nine-month documented psychotic episode, which involved a delusion that he was destined to take on the platform's financial losses to allow other users to win. The legal filing further indicates that Joyce has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder featuring psychotic symptoms, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, and dissociation. He also admits to a gambling addiction, a condition classified as a disability by both California statute and the Americans with Disabilities Act. The complaint asserts that Joyce communicated this delusion directly to ARB employees, even insisting they formally "crown" him—a demand that representatives reportedly dismissed as humorous. The filing adds that his delusional state also manifested in assertions concerning time travel and an ability to overcome the site's random number generator. It is also alleged that Modo Casino singled out Joyce during his psychotic episodes by elevating him to its top VIP level and providing gifts, incentives, and promotions aimed at fostering compulsive gambling behavior. Joyce further contends that a Modo Casino VIP host assigned to his account actively bolstered his psychotic condition. The legal document states that this employee began using Joyce's self-proclaimed title of “Modo’s Martyr” in correspondence, even referring to him by the initials “MM” in messages. How Much Money Did the Plaintiff Lose at the Casino? Data from Joyce's account reveals he was active for 5,631 hours on the sweepstakes casino website, averaging close to 14 hours daily. In a bid to curb his gambling, he requested that his VIP host remove his Black Diamond status to reduce the benefits he received, but this appeal was allegedly denied on multiple occasions. His total losses reached approximately $240,000. Subsequently, ARB provided him with a 1099 tax form declaring $61,000 in winnings, which the casino filed with the Internal Revenue Service. The legal action also challenges the casino's payout system, pointing out that Joyce's return-to-player (RTP) percentage was roughly 47%, significantly lower than the promoted range of 84% to 95%. Joyce's legal team is pursuing over $1.6 million in compensatory and statutory damages, claiming that ARB exploited his well-documented disabilities. In unrelated news about sweepstakes casinos like Modo, proposed legislation in Washington, D.C. aims to significantly restrict their activities by empowering the Office of Lottery and Gaming with greater regulatory control. 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 Star Entertainment Group Limited, an Australian casino and hospitality firm, has announced a new addition to its board of directors. The company stated that this appointment is in line with its ongoing recovery efforts and its commitment to achieving strong sustainability. Another Strong Addition to The Star’s New Management According to an official ASX announcement from The Star, industry veteran Grant Bowie has joined the company as a non-executive director. The company also noted that this board appointment is contingent upon regulatory and ministerial approvals. As a member of The Star's board, Bowie will serve as a Non-Executive Director (NED) and observer, contributing to the company's efforts to meet its sustainability targets. With his previous role as CEO of MGM China, Bowie brings a wealth of experience in the gaming industry. The Star highlighted that its new director has approximately 4 decades of experience in the tourism, gaming, and hospitality sectors. Bowie began his career in finance, holding various positions in public accounting and consulting across New Zealand, the US, and Australia. He spent roughly 16 years with Hilton Hotels Corporation in Australia, where he held several executive roles, including those related to the company's gaming operations on the Gold Coast and in Brisbane. In 2003, Bowie relocated to Macau, joining Wynn Resorts before moving to its competitor, MGM Resorts. During his tenure with these two major casino operators, Bowie was responsible for leadership, management, strategic development, and expansion initiatives. The appointment of Bowie as an observer and NED was positively received by Soo Kim, the chair of The Star. I would like to welcome Grant to the Board and look forward to working with him to assist in delivering our strategic objectives and creating a sustainable future for The Star. Soo Kim, chair, The Star The Star Sold Its DBC Interest In separate news, the Group recently announced via an ASX release that it has finalized the previously disclosed sale of its stake in Destination Brisbane Consortium (DBC). This transaction involved The Star selling its share in Queen’s Wharf Brisbane, which has helped reduce the company's debt during a challenging period. The company, which has faced significant challenges over the past few years, largely due to its inadequate Anti-Money Laundering (AML) controls, has been under intense regulatory scrutiny. Its shortcomings led to it being deemed unsuitable to hold licenses in New South Wales and Queensland, and it also faced criticism from investors. Fortunately for The Star, its new majority owner, Bally's, appears committed to addressing the issues left by previous management and ushering in a new era for the company. 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) - SBC Summit Americas has partnered with BettingStartups to boost its support for early-stage businesses, with a distinct focus on helping founders connect with investors and pushing fresh ideas to the forefront of the Americas market. As part of this strategic collaboration, BettingStartups will assume the role of the official host of the Startup Zone at SBC Summit Americas 2026. The space will feature 13 exhibition booths and a dedicated lounge, granting startups a prominent presence on the show floor and direct access to key decision-makers—51% of last year’s attendees held budgetary responsibility. Recognized as a key player in the early-stage gaming ecosystem, BettingStartups has built a reputation for supporting founders through its media platform, podcast, newsletter, events, and investment arm. By leveraging this network, the partnership will bring a curated group of high-quality startups to the event, giving attendees the chance to discover and engage with the next wave of innovation shaping the industry. A central highlight of the Startup Zone programming will be the First Pitch Americas Competition, taking place on Thursday, 11 June (14:00 – 14:40) on the Leaders Stage. Hosted by BettingStartups founder Jesse Learmonth, the competition will feature five standout startups pitching live to a panel of leading investors and executives. Participants will compete for a grand prize package valued at $108,900, designed to accelerate their growth and industry visibility. The prize includes a 3x3m exhibition booth at SBC Summit Americas 2027, alongside additional contributions from Are You Watching This?!, MetaBet, AWS, GameOn, Royer Cooper Cohen Braunfeld LLC, Square in the Air, and Vegas Kings. The judging panel consists of: Paris Smith, Founder and CEO, Defy the Odds Javier Altamirano, Global Head of Startup, Sportradar Evan Meyer, Managing Partner, Astralus Capital Management Scott Secord, Partner, Cardinal Sports Capital Meredith McPherson, CEO and Managing Partner, DRIVE by DraftKings Applications for the First Pitch Competition are currently open, with a submission deadline of 17 April, and selected participants will be notified by 4 May. The 2025 edition saw B2B social sports betting software provider Wager Games take home the top prize. Complementing the competition, attendees will also benefit from dedicated educational content, including the “Fundraising 101: Win Your First Round” workshop, taking place on Thursday, 11 June (11:00-12:00). Led by Shaun Gold, Chief Evangelist at OpenVC, the session will provide founders with a practical, no-nonsense roadmap to securing early-stage investment. The partnership is designed to position SBC Summit Americas as a must-attend event for startups, investors, and operators active in the region. By combining SBC’s global reach with BettingStartups’ specialized ecosystem, the collaboration aims to attract high-potential companies, generate pre-event momentum, and deliver unique, startup-focused content. Through curated participation, targeted marketing campaigns, and dedicated programming, BettingStartups will also support delegate growth, with a goal of driving significant new registrations from its engaged community. Rasmus Sojmark, CEO & Founder of SBC, said: “This partnership strengthens our commitment to innovation and to supporting the next generation of companies shaping the future of gaming in the Americas. BettingStartups brings a highly engaged community and deep understanding of the startup ecosystem, which will elevate both the quality of exhibitors and the overall experience for attendees.” Jesse Learmonth, Founder of BettingStartups, added: “SBC Summit Americas is a key meeting point for the industry in the region, and we’re excited to play a central role in building out its startup offering. Our focus is on bringing the most exciting early-stage companies to the event and giving founders a platform to be seen, heard, and funded.” About SBC Summit AmericasSBC Summit Americas is a leading industry event bringing together key stakeholders from across the North and Latin American gaming and sports betting markets. Taking place from June 9-11 at the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, the event continues to evolve its offering with a strong focus on business outcomes. This year, SBC introduces the SBC Connections networking program, featuring eight new ways for attendees to connect, alongside a new five-tier ticketing system designed to give participants greater control over their experience based on their business priorities. Startups and industry professionals are invited to secure their place at SBC Summit Americas 2026. Get tickets Inquire about exhibiting in the Startup Zone Apply for the First Pitch Competition 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 European Court of Justice (ECJ) has issued a further setback to Malta's efforts to defend its gambling legislation and licenses against challenges from other EU nations. A preliminary ruling from the ECJ was released today concerning the conflict between German regulators and the Malta-based operations of Lottoland and Maltese officials. The ECJ found that European Union law does not stop member states from prohibiting online services offered by operators from other member states. This judgment supports Germany's prohibition on online slot machines and lottery betting, affirming that players retain the right to seek compensation for losses from companies operating without a license or in violation of EU law. The ruling addresses a protracted legal conflict between Maltese and German judicial bodies over the operations of companies based and licensed in Malta within other EU jurisdictions. Initial disputes involved Malta challenging German court decisions, arguing that licenses issued by the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) adhered to the principles of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU). Invoking TFEU provisions for "unrestricted services," MGA licensees believed they could legally offer iGaming services, especially while Germany's federal states and government remained deadlocked over terms for a new Interstate Gambling Regime. After over ten years of arbitration and regulatory stalemate, Germany's federal states implemented the Interstate Treaty on Gambling (GlüNeuRStV), which took effect on 1 July 2021, establishing a finalized framework to regulate and license online gambling. DACH drama The EU legal battles primarily involve two Malta-licensed firms active in Germany and one in Austria during the late 2010s and early 2020s. While the ECJ has previously offered opinions, this marks its first preliminary ruling—an authoritative interpretation of EU law. The two companies in question regarding Germany are Tipico and Lottoland. The former was challenged by a former customer seeking to reclaim losses sustained between 2013 and 2020. Tipico operated without a German license during that period, though it had applied for and later obtained one following the market's re-regulation in 2021. In Lottoland's instance, a customer sought to recover losses from 2019 to 2021. The ECJ's preliminary ruling directly concerns the Lottoland case, but its implications will undoubtedly influence ongoing litigation involving Tipico and Virtual Services Digital Limited—the latter being the company embroiled in Austrian legal proceedings. The court explicitly ruled that Article 56A of the TFEU "must be interpreted as not precluding national legislation which imposes a prohibition on the organisation of online casino games, in particular slot machines, and of forms of betting such as online betting on the results of lottery draws". In essence, the EU's highest court has declared Malta's primary legal defense concerning its licensed companies' activities to be invalid. Bill 55 at the bat? Malta has sought to protect its gambling sector through Bill 55, the common name for a 2023 amendment to its Gambling Act—specifically, Article 56A. Bill 55 empowers Maltese courts to dismiss foreign legal orders against Malta-based and licensed firms that are compliant with Maltese law, even if they violate the laws of other EU member states where they operate. Malta's position rests on the EU principles of freedom to provide services and freedom of establishment, grounded in Article 56 of the TFEU. Maltese courts contend that EU freedom of trade principles form the foundation of Bill 55 and justify the activities of its licensed gambling operators in countries such as Germany. Does this ECJ ruling signify the end of these disputes? It is highly improbable. The international legal clashes between Maltese and other EU courts are long-standing, and Bill 55 was specifically crafted to shield gaming businesses from foreign legal actions. The ECJ has now delivered two rulings in 2026 that reinforce the right of Member States like Germany and Austria to ban cross-border gambling services and impose civil liability for violations—further weakening the legal protection afforded by Malta's Bill 55. Gambling contributes approximately one-tenth of Malta's GDP, and the island faces emerging competition to its status as a global iGaming hub from locations like Estonia and the UAE. As an EU member, Malta can invoke 'public policy exceptions' under the EU’s Brussels I Recast Regulation. This regulation is based on the mutual recognition and enforcement of legal judgments. By citing this law, Malta argues that foreign court rulings which contradict its own regulatory framework should not be enforced within its territory, claiming this exception is relevant to its online gambling system. Malta insists that Bill 55 is a necessary protective measure to prevent its domestic courts from being inundated by a surge of related litigation stemming from online gambling disputes, many of which EU courts have delegated to third-party claims firms—a pattern evident in the current caseload. Therefore, Bill 5 effectively enshrines this stance into national legislation. 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 sportsbook provider BETBY has announced a robust beginning to 2026, highlighted by a historic March, driven by expansion in both its sportsbook and esports division, Betby.Games. This 61% increase in gross gaming revenue (GGR) year-on-year for the first quarter coincides with the Malta-based company's efforts to broaden its market presence and advance product innovation. Additionally, BETBY saw a 38% rise in its active player base, suggesting that its recent foray into specialized markets such as MMA, hockey, and the emerging sport of teqball is proving successful. The firm has recently expanded its operations in Latin America by naming Gonzalo Navarro to the position of Senior Business Development Manager. As previously mentioned, March achieved record-breaking results for the company, indicating strong momentum heading into a crucial season. This is especially true for football, with the conclusion of major European leagues and tournaments approaching, alongside the upcoming World Cup this summer. Betby.Games also showed strong performance in Q1 2026 compared to the prior year, recording a 42% increase in GGR and a 32% growth in active players. “It’s been a really solid start to the year for us,” stated Leonid Pertsovskiy, Chief Executive Officer of BETBY. “We’re seeing strong growth across both sportsbook and esports, and that comes down to the work we’ve put into the product and the trust our partners place in us. “What’s particularly encouraging is that this growth is consistent across key metrics, which shows the strength and stability of what we’re building. We’ll keep pushing in the same direction, focusing on delivering long-term value for our partners.” BETBY’s safe prediction market strategy This announcement arrives after the company ventured into the prediction market sector earlier this month with BETBY Predictions. However, this was not a hasty decision; the company has observed the controversies surrounding platforms such as Polymarket and Kalshi. BETBY Predictions intends to avoid ‘highly sensitive or controversial topics,’ excluding events related to geopolitics, ongoing conflicts, wars, and any occurrences ‘involving human suffering’ from its platform. The impact of this expansion into prediction markets on the company's results remains to be seen, but BETBY aims aims to sustain this positive trajectory throughout the rest of FY26 and into the 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) - A Powerball participant in Colorado has secured a $1 million prize from the Wednesday draw. Furthermore, the 5x Power Play multiplier meant that four other players each won $250,000. Power Play’s 5x Multiplier Greatly Increased Several Players’ Payouts The April 15 Powerball drawing did not produce a jackpot winner but distributed numerous significant prizes, including a seven-figure award. The jackpot will now grow even larger for the next draw after remaining unclaimed. The winning numbers for the drawing were 13, 21, 27, 43, and 45, with the red Powerball being 26. During the draw, the jackpot was an estimated $59 million, with a cash option of $26.7 million. Although no ticket matched all six numbers, one player in Colorado matched the five white numbers to claim a $1 million Match 5 prize. Additionally, ten players nationwide won the third-tier prize by matching four white numbers and the Powerball. Six will receive $50,000 each, while the other four, who had the Power Play option, will collect $250,000 apiece due to the 5x multiplier. The Powerball jackpot has now increased to $75 million, with a cash value of $34.1 million. The next drawing is scheduled for Saturday. Powerball Jackpot Was Won Earlier This Month, Game Braces for UK Launch A winner in Delaware secured the previous Powerball jackpot, matching all six numbers on April 6 to win a substantial $231 million. In related news, Powerball is preparing for a launch in the UK. Allwyn, the operator of The National Lottery, confirmed the upcoming addition through its partnership with the Multi-State Lottery Association, though an exact launch date was not provided. 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) - DATA.BET has introduced In-Stream Betting as the newest addition to its sportsbook solution offerings. This latest feature is seamlessly integrated into existing streaming infrastructure, allowing users to place bets without interrupting their live broadcast viewing. Players can access betting markets, odds, and bet slips directly within the stream, thereby enhancing customer engagement and retention. Developed with a mobile-first approach, DATA.BET's In-Stream Betting addresses current digital trends, acknowledging that most bets are now placed via mobile devices. The overlay is on-demand, giving customers the flexibility to activate or deactivate it at any point during a stream. By eliminating the need to look away from the broadcast, operators can expect increased user engagement, extended betting sessions, and a higher lifetime value from their customers. Clients can integrate this feature at the frontend level, requiring no backend implementation, which simplifies the process and accelerates time-to-market. When combined with DATA.BET's virtual content, this solution enriches the user experience with broadcasts featuring near-zero latency. Rostyslav Likhtin, Head of Product at DATA.BET, stated: “In-Stream Betting is designed to engage players where their attention is already focused — within the broadcast.” “For our clients, this provides an additional layer of engagement that is straightforward to implement yet yields significant improvements in retention and player satisfaction. “Having all necessary elements on a single screen reduces the time required to place a bet, and this kind of seamless experience is precisely what fosters long-term player loyalty towards the operator.” 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 European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) has voiced its opposition to a proposal for a European Union-wide online gambling levy. While supporters see the tax as a way to generate new revenue for the EU budget, the EGBA has criticized the plan as “fundamentally unworkable.” EU Considers Union-Wide iGaming Tax In a formal statement, the EGBA raised major concerns regarding the potential EU iGaming tax. The measure was recommended by the European Parliament’s Budget Committee during a preliminary vote on the 2028-2034 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF). The committee suggested the union-wide levy as a possible source of additional funding. It is important to note that the vote was exploratory, intended to gauge the stance of EU member states on the idea. Discussing the matter, the EGBA warned that such a measure would notably increase the financial strain on operators. The association predicted that this could compromise safe gaming efforts across the EU, as it would favor illegal operators by making regulated companies less competitive. Additionally, the EGBA pointed out that such a levy would likely result in lower tax revenues for individual EU member states. Implementing such a proposal would require the unanimous agreement of all 27 member states. Tax Proposal Viewed as a Boon for the Black Market Commenting on the situation, Maarten Haijer, the secretary general of the EGBA, highlighted further issues, noting that gambling is not currently harmonized at the EU level. Consequently, there is no legal framework to define, manage, or collect such a tax. Haijer added that any potential levy would be added to the national taxes that operators are already required to pay. Given that some countries already have tax rates exceeding 50% of gross gaming revenue, the secretary general argued that such a levy would essentially benefit the black market. Because they pay no tax, illegal operators can already offer players more attractive products and prices without any of the consumer safeguards that licensed operators provide. Adding an EU levy would make this situation even worse: expanding the black market, harming consumer protection for EU citizens, and reducing overall tax revenues for Member States. Maarten Haijer, secretary general, EGBA While the recent vote was tentative, the European Parliament is scheduled to vote on the Committee's opinion later this month, which will precede the start of budget negotiations. 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 recent ruling by a European court could significantly impact the European gaming industry. In a prominent case, judges ruled against Lottoland, affirming that EU member states have the authority to prohibit online gaming and that players who lost money to illegal iGaming operations can pursue legal action to reclaim their losses. Judges Ruled in Favor of the Plaintiff On April 16, the Court of Justice of the European Union sided with a player who was suing Lottoland for money lost while gambling on the platform. At the time of the player's losses, online gaming was prohibited in Germany, where the player resided. The plaintiff argued that because Lottoland was not legally permitted to offer online gaming to German customers, the company should refund his lost funds. He subsequently initiated legal proceedings in Malta, where Lottoland holds a license from the Malta Gaming Authority. Lottoland, along with other companies facing similar claims, contended that their EU operating license took precedence over local regulations. However, the new ruling clarified that individual countries retain the right to ban specific online gaming products, and that even companies with a European-level license cannot offer their services in such prohibited territories. Consequently, the court also confirmed that consumers who have lost money on these prohibited products in regions where they are banned can file civil lawsuits to seek the recovery of their funds. EU Courts Will Have to Keep This Decision in Mind In the Lottoland case, the judges acknowledged that Germany has since legalized online gambling. Nevertheless, they stated that this subsequent legalization did not invalidate the ban that was in effect when the player incurred his losses on Lottoland. The judges concluded that the regulatory change did not imply that the prior rules were flawed, and that the transition to a licensing framework did not absolve Lottoland of responsibility for operating prior to legalization. The judges further emphasized that players who chose to gamble with an unlicensed operator were not engaging in an abuse of rights under EU law. While Malta has regulations in place to protect its gaming licensees from liability, the Court of Justice's ruling will be interpreted as EU law and must be considered by the Maltese court when making its own decision. The decision from the Court of Justice will also serve as a binding precedent for other courts across the European Union. In summary, this development could pose significant challenges for gaming operators throughout Europe, potentially leading to an increase in legal actions by players seeking to recover their gambling losses. 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) - Gaming technology provider GR8 Tech is taking steps to ready casino operators for the World Cup, introducing an additional dimension to its toolkit and approach for keeping customers engaged. While the World Cup is universally acknowledged as a major opportunity for sportsbooks to acquire, activate, and retain customers, GR8 Tech contends that its capacity to attract casino players is often overlooked. The company reports it has been 'preparing its casino vertical accordingly,' having improved its bonuses, tournaments, content delivery, and integrations with game providers to highlight casino offerings during the tournament, which is typically dominated by sports betting. Casino clients represent significant business for GR8 Tech, which boasts a network of more than 200 casino partners. The firm asserts that with the right support, casino operators are well-placed to capitalize on the World Cup traffic surge. “A World Cup can drive substantial new traffic, but that influx only becomes valuable if players are given an incentive to remain,” stated Lusine Khudaverdyan, Head of Casino at GR8 Tech. “For the casino sector, this entails more adaptable bonuses, compelling tournaments, robust content offerings, and provider features that assist operators in turning initial interest into sustained gameplay.” On the technical side, GR8 Tech has refined its bonus and tournament mechanics, improved product-specific wagering requirements for bonuses, and modified its tournament system to let operators feature the same game in several concurrent tournaments. This announcement follows shortly after GR8 Tech rolled out enhancements to its ULTIM8 Sportsbook in preparation for the World Cup, including refinements to the platform's widget-based design and the separation of live and pre-match betting processes. Dinos Doxiadis, Head of Sportsbook Business at GR8 Tech, remarked previously: “The World Cup will generate enormous betting volume irrespective of individual operator actions. The crucial issue is what portion of that volume is retained.” 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) - Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), the gambling regulatory body of the Netherlands, has allocated additional funding to efforts focused on reducing problem gambling across the country. Five new projects in total have been announced as grant recipients from the KSA’s Addiction Prevention Fund. The financing supports the treatment and prevention of gambling-related harm among the Dutch public, 20% of whom are currently at moderate to high risk of harmful gambling behaviour, per the regulator. One grant will be awarded to the Anonymous Gamblers Foundation (AGOG), a support group for people with compulsive gambling issues, to fund training for new counsellors. In addition, AGOG will carry out further research into launching digital counselling services targeted at residents living in regions where in-person support meetings are not accessible. The Dutch Association for Psychiatry (NVvP) is another grant recipient under the Addiction Prevention Fund, and the awarded money will be used to develop specialised guidelines for treating gambling disorders. Since the NVvP currently provides guidance to mental health professionals via a series of existing recommendations, adding content focused on problem gambling to these resources is designed to help build a healthcare system that is better equipped to treat patients affected by gambling harm. Another grant recipient in the healthcare field is the independent mental health research centre, the Trimbos Institute, which has launched two pilot programmes to expand its professional expertise into the area of problem gambling. The first project will investigate methods to increase gambling harm education for young people, including conducting surveys, carrying out data monitoring, and facilitating discussions with local municipalities and relevant stakeholders. For its second project, the Trimbos Institute will focus on upgrading the existing mechanisms that allow employers to provide effective support to staff members who may be struggling with gambling-related harm. Stichting Naast is the next organisation on the grant list, which will use its subsidy to develop webinars, one-on-one guidance sessions and informational newsletters as support tools for the family and friends of problem gamblers. The Addiction Prevention Fund has been an extremely valuable resource in addressing problem gambling in the Netherlands, and will continue to fulfill this role through 2026 as the KSA prepares to tackle falling channelisation rates and the growing prominence of the unregulated black market gambling sector. 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.

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