Category: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) - It’s common knowledge that disturbing Ancient Egyptian tombs could bring unexpected death knocking at your door. While this phenomenon is widely attributed to dormant bacteria released from tomb dust, Play’n GO has opted for a slightly spookier motif for its new title, which centers on Pharaoh Khufu – a mummified ruler who has returned from the dead, and is deeply unhappy with the run-down state of his resting place! On top of that, he is faced with the issue of his missing gold. Core Metrics of the Wrappin’ Gold Slot Machine Number of rows: 3 Number of reels: 5 Available paylines: 20 Return to Player (RTP): 96.20% Volatility level: Medium Minimum/maximum bet: 0.20/100 Maximum possible win: 1525x the stake Pharaoh Khufu Wants Answers: Who Made Off With His Gold? Play’n GO has once again built this release around a fully cohesive theme. Step into the adventures of Pharaoh Khufu, who has risen from the dead only to find that his former wealth has been stolen by Queen Cleo and her crew of looting minions. Fortunately, this works out well for players, as the reanimated pharaoh has a solid plan to recover all his stolen goods, and players get to reap rewards while he carries out his scheme. Speaking about the latest release, Play’n GO Games Ambassador Magnus Wallentin celebrated the newest addition to the studio’s rapidly growing and evolving game library: “For Wrappin’ Gold, we wanted to highlight a vivid personality clash – Khufu’s unshakable determination against Queen Cleo’s bold, cheeky mischief – and frame it as a fast-paced, cinematic chase that keeps the story front and centre.” This new Egyptian-themed title arrives right after a period of robust portfolio expansion for the studio, which included the recent launch of Dutch Flip for the Netherlands market. How Do You Catch Tomb Raiders in the Wrappin’ Gold Online Slot? Play’n GO has included a host of engaging mechanics that elevate the gameplay experience far beyond standard expectations. The slot comes with Triggering Symbols that unlock a wide range of different in-game features. Landing Pot Symbols will let you activate the Collect and Win mechanic, which further increases your potential payout, alongside a Bonus Spins mechanic: if you land three of these symbols, you will trigger a round that awards six free spins. As expected, Wild Symbols help you fill in gaps to complete incomplete paylines, and they can also activate the Instant Bonus Feature. Beyond these creative twists on familiar slot features, Play’n GO has been expanding its market reach by partnering with individual companies to deliver theme-specific, audience-tailored games, such as the Detroit Red Wings themed title launched in collaboration with PokerStars. 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) - Authored by Rep. Jeff Knight, R-Lebanon, Missouri’s House Bill 3533 aims to shift away from the state income tax by raising casino taxes to offset lost revenue. Bill Seeks to Increase Revenue from Gambling This legislation comes as Missouri faces broader debates over scaling back or potentially eliminating the state income tax, a critical source of revenue for local government. At the same time, gaming proceeds fund education, veteran services, historic preservation, local governments, and other state priorities. Recent shortfalls in lottery and casino revenue forecasts have further added to financial strain. Missouri’s $2 admission fee and its core casino tax framework have remained unchanged since riverboat casinos were first introduced in 1994. Under the new proposal, the fee would be raised to $5.50 and charged every two hours that a patron stays in the gambling area. Starting in fiscal year 2027, the Missouri Gaming Commission would adjust the fee annually to keep pace with inflation using the Midwest Region’s Consumer Price Index (CPI), with these adjustments remaining in place for at least a decade. Additionally, a new monthly fee equal to 1.5% of total wagers (handle) would replace the standard admission fee for online or remote sports betting offered by casino licensees. The revenue generated would be deposited into the Gaming Commission Fund. Supporters argue the bill would update these policies to account for inflation and the evolving gaming industry, including the growth of online sports betting. The bill could also be viewed as another recent step by Missouri to expand its oversight of the gambling sector. Another demonstration of the state’s commitment to further regulating the industry can be seen in Attorney General Catherine Hanaway’s recent announcement to target video lottery terminals (VLTs), which will be made illegal under a new law taking effect in February 2026. Some Are Against the New Proposition Unsurprisingly, any legislation proposing tax increases will have its share of opponents. Mike Winter, a lobbyist representing the Missouri Gaming Association, is one such critic. He warned that if the bill passes, his clients could face losses of more than half a billion dollars. He noted that casinos are already dealing with declining revenues due to the widespread availability of slot machines in convenience stores and gas stations. He also pointed out that the proposed shift to a bi-hourly fee structure could impact not just casino revenues, but daily operations as well. Additionally, Winter expressed concern that raising taxes on sports betting may not be achievable through legislation alone, as the sport was originally approved via a constitutional amendment. Chance Hepola, director of government affairs for the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry, also spoke out against the proposal. She noted that caution is warranted when increasing fees and taxes on specific industries, emphasizing the importance of avoiding policies that arbitrarily pick winners and losers. All told, House Bill 3533 is likely still far from being fully enacted into law, given the slow pace at which other gambling-related legislation has moved through Missouri’s government. One notable sticking point is the state’s proposed casino smoking ban, House Bill 1618, which has been tied up in debate for months now. In other Missouri gambling news, a Powerball player has become the state’s latest millionaire after winning $1 million from the April 20 drawing. 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) - Pragmatic Play, a leading iGaming supplier, is inviting players to set off on a sweet journey to a world brimming with candy, sugar-rich fruits, and of course, generous big wins. The newest addition to the provider’s hit portfolio is titled Sweet Bonanza 2500, and it marks the latest entry in its widely popular candy-themed game franchise. Sweet Bonanza 2500 Metrics Rows: 5 Reels: 6 Paylines: Clusters RTP: 96.53% Volatility: Very High Min/max bet: 0.20/240 Max win: 25,000x Victory Has Never Tasted Sweeter Pragmatic Play’s brand-new game drops players into the familiar candy world that anyone who has played earlier Sweet Bonanza titles already recognizes and enjoys. This enduring candy theme has now been upgraded with powerful, game-changing multipliers reaching up to 2,500x – which is exactly how the game got its name. The base game of Sweet Bonanza 2500 gives players the opportunity to win up to 50x their stake on every individual spin. Any cluster of 8 or more matching symbols is cleared from the playing grid, and new symbols tumble down to fill the empty spaces, giving players multiple chances to rack up multiple wins in a single spin. Landing four lollipop scatter symbols, meanwhile, triggers the game’s bonus round, which awards players 10 free spins. During the bonus round, one or more multiplier symbols can land on any spin. The values of all active multipliers on the screen are added together, and the total multiplier is applied to the player’s win at the end of the full tumbling sequence. In the bonus round, players can win as much as 25,000x their original bet. Players who want to jump straight into the action can activate one of the game’s special bet features: they can increase their wager to boost their odds of triggering free spins, or opt for a guaranteed multiplier entry. Players can also purchase direct access to free spins in any regulated market where this feature is allowed. Even More Sweetness for Fans of the Franchise Pragmatic Play’s Sweet Bonanza series already includes popular titles like Sweet Bonanza 1000 and Sweet Bonanza Super Scatter. On top of these slot releases, the provider also offers a live casino game show called Sweet Bonanza CandyLand. Given the massive ongoing popularity of the franchise, launching Sweet Bonanza 2500 to raise the stakes for this fan-favorite series was a clear, obvious choice for the supplier. Sharon McHugh, Pragmatic Play’s director of public relations, said: With vibrant, eye-catching visuals, a new 2,500x maximum multiplier, and an appealing selection of special bet options, Sweet Bonanza 2500 is packed full of extra sweet excitement for fans of this iconic game series. Sharon McHugh, director of public relations, Pragmatic Play Other recent new releases from Pragmatic Play include Inca Queen and Dragon Pots Megaways. 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) - Servers operated by Austrian slot game provider Amatic Industries, a supplier to Slotegrator, were compromised in a hack on April 17, leading some Russian-speaking players to receive significantly larger payouts than intended. Amatic Industries Gets Hacked The cyberattack impacted several of the company's games, including Book of Aztec, Lucky Joker 10, Lucky Joker 10 Extra Gifts, Lucky Joker 10 Cashspins, and Lucky Joker 20. Consequently, these games began generating wins at a far higher frequency than normal. Slotegrator clarified that the problem was entirely on Amatic's end, originating from the server infrastructure hosting the games. In a LinkedIn post, the aggregator emphasized its commitment to transparency and close partnership, stating it would offer full technical support and aid in investigations. However, it noted that definitive conclusions require a detailed analysis by the game's owner. Reports indicate the games began awarding a prize on every third spin. This allowed certain players to rapidly accumulate considerable sums, which they then tried to withdraw with mixed results, as discussed on Russian-language forums. Simultaneously, while some players successfully cashed out their earnings, others found their accounts suspended or banned by online casinos. Highlighting the severity of the incident, one gambler allegedly transformed a $3.50 wager into $1,200 in a brief timeframe. Hacks are not the sole method for players to obtain unearned money, as technical glitches can have the same effect. A recent example involves William Hill, where a system malfunction credited users with substantial amounts they did not win. The firm is now attempting to recover millions after numerous players withdrew the erroneously credited funds. Cybersecurity Issues In the Gambling Industry Are on the Rise, Expert Says According to cybersecurity expert Joseph Steinberg, the breach of Amatic's servers points to a wider trend in cybercrime. Steinberg contends that offshore casinos functioning in legal grey zones are especially appealing targets, calling them "almost ideal targets" because of the large amounts of easily movable funds they manage. Steinberg further noted that the complex jurisdictions governing sites like Vodka.Bet and Vavada offer hackers considerable protection. He stated that attacking entities already viewed with skepticism in the West significantly raises the chance of the culprits avoiding punishment. In these scenarios, victims frequently have no reliable access to law enforcement to stop such attacks or seek redress afterwards. Naturally, not all cybercriminals escape justice, as evidenced by the recent sentencing of a DraftKings hacker to 30 months for participating in a plot to steal over $600,000 from 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) - BGaming is accelerating its growth strategy by integrating its entire game portfolio across several markets through a new content partnership with Entain, a move designed to strengthen their combined footprint in key jurisdictions. BGaming Set to Launch with Multiple Entain Brands Across Five Markets BGaming is rolling out its #Classic, #Entertainment, and #Casual titles via Entain in Brazil, Spain, Italy, Greece, and Portugal, with both parties committed to continued expansion. The rollout includes recent hits such as Royal Beellion Hold & Win and Penalty Duel. BGaming CCO Olga Levshina expressed enthusiasm for the deal, noting the significance of expanding the studio’s visibility through a partnership with a major global operator. “Entain is among the most prominent and respected entities in the industry, and by making our products accessible across its platforms, we can ensure our games receive the recognition they merit,” Levshina stated. Entain Global Gaming Director Obdulio Bacarese also welcomed the collaboration, highlighting the value of enhancing the company’s player experience with content from a studio of BGaming’s caliber. “BGaming is a dynamic and innovative studio that will assist us in bolstering our offerings across several vital markets, and we are eager to see how our players engage with their games,” Bacarese remarked. Entain Is a Juggernaut of iGaming Brands Entain remains a leading force in the iGaming sector, operating a portfolio of over 25 brands, including bwin, Party Casino, Sportingbet, Sporting Interaction, and others. BGaming continues to solidify its reputation as a preferred partner for operators looking to diversify and enhance their game libraries. Meanwhile, the studio remains focused on scaling its operations and delivering high-quality titles to the market. In April, the company debuted the Bling Blitz Diamond Drop, a title that features a distinctive one-row gameplay mechanic alongside a bonus wheel feature. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Rush Street Interactive (RSI) used its latest earnings call to showcase its confidence in the future of online gaming. During Tuesday’s conversation with Macquarie analyst Chad Beynon, CEO Richard Schwartz walked through the company’s core strengths, noting that its scale grants a competitive edge over rivals still focused on expanding their operations. Online Casino Stays at the Heart of RSI’s Strategic Plan These discussions followed RSI’s strong Q1 2026 financial results, during which the company reported revenue of $370.4 million, marking a 41% year-over-year increase. This figure also set a brand-new quarterly record for the operator. The conversation centered primarily on new growth opportunities and competitive landscapes across North America and Latin America. Schwartz made clear that ample opportunities still exist, even if they are rarely straightforward to pursue. Online casino continues to stand as RSI’s leading vertical, with far less emphasis placed on sports wagering. Schwartz expressed confidence that this strategy aligns with evolving player preferences and fully leverages the unique advantages of this sector. He noted that casino users typically log in more frequently, spend more time gaming, and remain loyal for longer stretches. The pairing of record-breaking new player acquisition and improving marketing efficiency creates a powerful dynamic that will propel our business to new heights. Richard Schwartz, RSI CEO North American expansion is moving ahead as planned. The July launch in Alberta, Canada represents measured, controlled growth. According to company executives, this market will mirror the early trends observed in Ontario. RSI will need to stand out among competitors, combat entrenched unregulated gray-market operators, and carve out a distinct market niche. Schwartz expressed confidence that the company’s prior experience will prove invaluable, with long-term profitability as a top core priority. RSI Is Well-Positioned to Address Growing Challenges Schwartz also discussed potential US iGaming legalization. Virginia remains a promising opportunity, as momentum for regulated online gambling in the state continues to build. RSI views the state as a prime expansion target due to its large population, existing land-based partner, and the chance to enter the market with established brand awareness. Latin America remained the company’s most dynamic region. While Mexico offers lucrative opportunities thanks to its size and the relative lack of competitive casino-focused operators, Colombia presents some complications. Regulatory shifts, tax changes, and court rulings directly impacted profitability. However, Schwartz remained confident that absorbing these costs and focusing on player loyalty would deliver long-term returns. I believe this is an opportunity for us to capture significant interest from bettors across these markets. Richard Schwartz, RSI CEO RSI also faces several challenges within the US market. Prediction market platforms are on the rise, sparking concerns that this new form of competition could siphon away existing users. RSI CFO Kyle Sauers largely dismissed this threat, noting that customer acquisition costs are actually trending lower. He added that RSI is targeting a distinct type of player and efficiently reaching this audience. 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 betting and gaming operator evoke has released its financial results for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2025. The company experienced a slight downturn in its UK operations, which was counterbalanced by the performance of its International Online segment. Evoke’s International Online Segment Performed Strongly Evoke, the company behind well-known gaming brands such as 888, Mr Green, and William Hill, reported that 2025 marked its second consecutive year of profitable growth on an adjusted basis. Group revenue saw a 2% increase, reaching GBP 1.78 billion ($2.4 billion), up from GBP 1.75 billion in the previous year. This growth was characterized by five consecutive quarters of positive performance, with the fourth quarter of 2025 being the strongest of the year. The company's UK&I Online segment experienced a 3% decrease in revenue. While the William Hill brand continued to show growth, the 888 brand reported a decline in revenue. Evoke attributed the broader decrease in the UK&I region to increased competition from the black market, particularly in the horse racing sector. The robust growth of the International Online segment effectively offset the less favorable results from the UK&I region. International Online revenue rose by 9%, with evoke recording a 17% increase across its international Core Markets. This segment's performance was further boosted by record revenues in Italy and Denmark, as well as the recent acquisition of Winner in Romania. Meanwhile, evoke's adjusted EBITDA for 2025 saw a double-digit increase of 14%, reaching GBP 356.2 million ($482.6 million). The company also reported an expansion in its adjusted EBITDA margin by 220 basis points to 20%, which evoke attributed to enhanced marketing efficiencies. On a reported basis, EBITDA increased by 43% to GBP 301.3 million ($408.5 million). Despite the predominantly positive financial performance, evoke's net loss for the year widened to GBP 549.1 million ($744.4 million). This increase was primarily due to GBP 440.3 million ($596.9 million) in non-cash impairment charges related to its UK Online and Retail operations, the impact of Britain's new tax regime, and challenging conditions in high street retail. The company's loss per share for the period stood at GBP 1.218 ($1.65). As of December 31, 2025, evoke held GBP 128.4 million ($174.1 million) in cash. Including an undrawn revolving credit facility (RCF) of GBP 81 million ($109.8 million), the company's total liquidity was approximately GBP 200 million ($271.1 million). The Company Achieved Significant Strategic Progress In addition to reducing its debt, evoke reported significant strategic advancements and the continued implementation of its value creation plan, which is driving profitable growth and improved efficiencies. Throughout 2025, evoke continued to invest in data, automation, and artificial intelligence to secure its long-term success. The company also refreshed the William Hill brand with a new visual identity and introduced new, innovative products. In response to changes in UK taxation and a review of high street trading conditions, the company adjusted its strategic focus areas, leading to the decision to close 270 of its retail shops in the UK. Evoke indicated that its performance in early 2026 has been favorable and in line with expectations. The broader business has experienced 2% growth, while the UK Online segment has shown a positive recovery with 5% growth. However, the International segment is currently facing challenges in Spain and Romania due to competitive and market dynamics. While the retail business has remained stable, evoke has planned further shop closures for the second quarter and has initiated a review to further adapt to the tax changes. Meanwhile, an M&A agreement with Bally’s Intralot is still under consideration as negotiations are ongoing. CEO Widerström Bullish on 2026 Per Widerström, evoke’s chief executive officer, expressed satisfaction with the company's consistent operational progress in 2025. He acknowledged, however, that the substantial tax increase in the UK presents a significant new challenge for the team, prompting evoke to review its operations to mitigate any negative impact. Widerström conveyed optimism about pursuing further growth despite these challenges, stating: “In Q1 2026 we have traded in line with our expectations. While the trading environment is challenging, we remain firmly focused on delivering profitable growth, cash generation and strengthening the balance sheet.” 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) - GR8 Tech, a betting technology firm, sees the World Cup as a perfect chance for betting operators to engage with crypto enthusiasts. Founded in Ukraine and now based in Cyprus, the company has rolled out a set of platform updates to enhance crypto accessibility and commercial viability for large-scale sports tournaments. These updates cover improvements to fiat-to-crypto onboarding processes, on-chain analytics, and wallet integration—all designed by GR8 Tech to eliminate hurdles for first-time users. GR8 Tech is convinced that crypto offers betting companies quicker transactions, wider audience reach, and more high-value players—though it’s worth noting that the regulatory landscape for crypto betting remains somewhat unclear. “Currently, most platforms identify their top crypto users too late—once the optimal window to engage them effectively has already passed,” stated Olga Karablina, Chief Payment Gateway Officer at GR8 Tech. “We’re addressing this issue. By enabling operators to recognize value from the very first interaction and reduce payment-related friction, they shift from reacting to crypto users to actively maximizing their value.” GR8 Tech gears up for the World Cup The World Cup’s ability to attract new customers is widely acknowledged. The event draws a diverse array of bettors, including those who place wagers infrequently, and patriotic betting is a prevalent trend. This presents operators with a significant opportunity to poach customers from rivals. For crypto users, GR8 Tech notes that processes like manual transfers, copying wallet addresses, and switching between apps can hinder the user experience. GR8 Tech aims to streamline this process. These platform updates are the newest additions to a string of improvements the company has implemented in preparation for the World Cup, such as expanding its sportsbook and casino offerings. Crypto betting has undoubtedly grown in popularity over the past few years, mirroring the broader acceptance of cryptocurrencies as both investment assets and payment options. That said, crypto gambling remains a regulatory gray area in many jurisdictions—though there are indications this could shift. Estonia has been identified by some as a possible hub for the future of regulated crypto gambling. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - BETBY has entered into a partnership with QTech Games, securing its role as the exclusive sportsbook provider for the aggregator’s global network of operators. Under the terms of the deal, the Malta-based company will integrate its full sportsbook solution onto QTech’s platform. This will grant partner operators access to a robust suite of products, including over 500,000 monthly sporting events, AI-powered trading tools, and its proprietary esports feed, Betby.Games. Built on a single application programming interface (API), this integration is intended to streamline sportsbook deployment and drastically cut down on the technical hurdles that have long come with launching sports betting offerings. “Partnering with QTech Games is a natural step for BETBY,” said Stefanos Karakidis, Business Development Director at BETBY. “They have cemented their status as one of the leading aggregators in Asia, boasting robust distribution networks and deep local expertise, while continuing to expand across other high-growth markets. “QTech has a sharp grasp of local player behaviors and operator requirements, and together we’ll be able to deliver a Tier-1, mobile-first sportsbook experience perfectly suited to the demands of the markets they serve.” This partnership also aligns with BETBY’s wider global expansion strategy. Leveraging QTech’s established footprint, particularly in Asia, the company will gain entry to key emerging markets while strengthening its reach in regions such as Latin America and Africa. By merging BETBY’s sportsbook capabilities with QTech’s aggregation and localization know-how, the partnership aims to deliver more competitive and tailored betting experiences to end users. Philip Doftvik, Chief Executive Officer at QTech Games, added: “We are delighted to add BETBY’s award-winning sportsbook to our platform. “Their product is modern, flexible, and built for fast-growing markets, which aligns exactly with what our operator partners are looking for. “From AI-driven tools to a robust esports portfolio, BETBY brings a level of innovation that elevates our offering and supports our mission to deliver the best content available across emerging iGaming markets.” BETBY’s expansion follows a strong start to 2026 As noted earlier, BETBY already has a presence in Latin America and Africa, and recently bolstered its footprint in the former region with the appointment of Gonzalo Navarro as Senior Business Development Manager. The firm also reported a record-breaking month in March 2026 – part of a Q1 which saw a 61% year-on-year growth in gross gaming revenue (GGR). The company launched a push into prediction markets in April 2026, but has stated its intention to avoid the more controversial segments that have marred the sector in recent months. With multiple global moves already underway in 2026, the operator looks poised to dive headfirst into a busy upcoming period for the iGaming industry. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Leading casino and hospitality firm MGM Resorts International has released its financial report for the first quarter of 2026, noting steady revenues even as adjusted EBITDA saw a minor decline. Company Sees Net Revenue Gains Amid EBITDA Challenges According to the report, the company recorded consolidated net revenues of $4.5 billion, a 4% increase year-over-year. Net income attributable to MGM Resorts stood at $125 million, down from $149 million in the prior year period. The company’s adjusted EBITDA reached $580 million, a drop from Q1 2025’s $637 million. Meanwhile, diluted earnings per share fell slightly to $0.48, while adjusted diluted earnings per share came in at $0.49—compared to $0.69 in the year-ago quarter. MGM Resorts’ Las Vegas Strip Resorts segment reported net revenues of $2.2 billion for Q1 2025, marking a small uptick. However, the segment’s adjusted EBITDAR decreased by 8% to $749 million. Conversely, the Regional Operations segment generated net revenues of $918 million, a 2% year-over-year rise. The segment’s adjusted EBITDAR was $259 million, down 7% from the previous year. MGM China’s results followed a similar pattern: net revenues increased by 9% to $1.1 billion, while segment adjusted EBITDAR fell 4% to $273 million. MGM noted that intercompany branding license fee expenses rose by $23 million. Finally, MGM Digital posted net revenues of $183 million, a 43% year-on-year jump. The segment’s adjusted EBITDAR loss narrowed to $26 million (from $34 million in Q1 2025). MGM Remains Positive About the Remainder of 2026 Bill Hornbuckle, president and CEO of MGM Resorts International, expressed satisfaction with the stable results and praised the top-line growth in Las Vegas—growth that followed a period of mixed outcomes. Hornbuckle was particularly enthusiastic about the rest of the year, expecting further improvements in the company’s performance. Looking into the second quarter and beyond, we are seeing signs of strength driven by solid convention bookings, our newly launched all-inclusive promotion, and our recently refreshed rooms at the MGM Grand Las Vegas. Bill Hornbuckle, CEO & president, MGM Resorts International Jonathan Halkyard, MGM Resorts International’s chief financial officer, also highlighted the recent sale of MGM Northfield Park’s operations for $546 million as a major achievement. He stated that the sale provided his team with funding to reinvest in priority areas. 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, a Cyprus-based technology firm, has become the latest B2B company to enter the prediction markets sector—an industry that’s both rapidly growing and controversial. The company’s new product, Prediction Markets, lives up to its name, so to speak: the platform expands the range of markets its clients can offer betting options for. Like the world’s two largest prediction platforms, Kalshi and Polymarket, DATA.BET’s prediction market covers politics, geopolitics, finance, technology, crypto, economics, culture, and weather. DATA.BET states that the new platform features transparent pricing, fiat transactions, and an intuitive user experience. The firm added it aims “to reduce the structural complexity typical of exchanges.” “Our recent launch represents a technically complex challenge that our team managed to solve with a strong focus on usability,” said Yurii Berest, Chief Executive Officer of DATA.BET. “Prediction markets will continue to gain momentum, but the key difference will be how effectively this mechanic is adapted to sportsbooks and casino environments. This is exactly where we see our strength. “Building them as a standalone vertical, without blending sports, esports, and virtual sports content into the same category, we ensure clear product structure and positioning for operators and platform providers.” Prediction markets have become a global phenomenon, but the U.S. has long been a focal point for key players—especially Kalshi and Polymarket, though the latter was effectively barred from its home country between 2020 and 2025. These platforms have found popularity among specific consumers, particularly those with a strong interest in geopolitics, economics, and business. Some jurisdictions, like Gibraltar, have embraced the platforms as cutting-edge new products. Others, however, have not been as receptive. Polymarket has been banned in a long list of countries including the Netherlands, France, Portugal, Romania, and Ukraine. In the UK, predictions are not banned, but they require a betting license—something Polymarket and Kalshi would be opposed to. This hasn’t stopped B2C betting companies from joining the space, though. Notable players to enter include Flutter Entertainment via FanDuel and later Betfair, Allwyn via PrizePicks, and UK betting exchange Matchbook. It’s no surprise that DATA.BET sees an opportunity to work with operators in the predictions space, given the global interest from established gaming companies despite some initial reservations. The company has not stated which markets its new predictions platform will target, though it’s reasonable to assume Europe and Latin America are on its radar given its prior activity in these regions. 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) - Betano, the operator owned by Kaizen Gaming, has been appointed as an Official Regional Sponsor of Argentina’s national football team as it continues to expand its footprint across Latin America. This agreement comes at a critical juncture—just weeks before the FIFA World Cup 2026—as global attention starts to shift toward football ahead of the North American tournament this summer. Through this partnership, Betano states it aims to deepen its connection with Argentine fans by rolling out a series of highly engaging activations, each designed to bring supporters closer to the national squad. As the reigning world champions, Argentina remains one of football’s most iconic nations, boasting three World Cup titles and a rich history of international success. The last World Cup in Qatar saw Lionel Messi lift the trophy for the first time ever after Argentina defeated France in the final—a match many regard as one of the most thrilling finals in World Cup history. For Betano, aligning with such a globally renowned team allows the company to strengthen its presence in a key football market while boosting its international brand visibility. The sponsorship will be supported by integrated 360-degree marketing campaigns across digital platforms, television, and out-of-home advertising, featuring the brand’s Spanish-language tagline “Confiá”. These initiatives are intended to maximize fan engagement and embed the brand within key football moments leading up to the World Cup. Betano’s familiarity with South America Betano is no stranger to sponsorship deals in South America, though most of its activity in the region has been heavily focused on Brazil. The operator currently has a high-value partnership with Flamengo, in addition to past collaborations with Atletico Mineiro and Fluminense, and it holds the naming rights to the Brasileirão—Brazil’s top-tier football division. According to Sensor Tower’s State of Mobile 2026 report, its app was also the most downloaded in the sports category across the country. However, Betano does have existing ties to Argentina: it is the main sponsor of Liga Profesional de Fútbol side River Plate, the most successful club in the country’s history. A recent launch in Ghana—Betano’s 20th move into a regulated market—alongside this landmark Argentina football deal shows the operator is showing no signs of slowing down as we approach the busiest sporting period of 2026. 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 Malaysian High Court has denied a Singaporean casino operator's bid to collect a multi-million dollar gambling debt, highlighting the nation's firm legal stance against enforcing such claims. Judge Rules Gambling Debt Unenforceable in Malaysia In Ipoh, the court rejected a bankruptcy petition initiated by Resorts World at Sentosa Pte Ltd against a local restaurant owner concerning an alleged debt of approximately RM26 million ($6.6 million). This claim stemmed from credit provided for gambling activities at the Singaporean casino, as reported by Free Malaysia Today. Delivering the ruling, the presiding judge determined that the nature of the debt rendered it unenforceable under Malaysian law. Obligations originating from gambling are considered invalid in the country, meaning they cannot serve as grounds for legal action, including bankruptcy proceedings. The judge stressed that these liabilities are not recognized as legally binding debts but are classified as informal commitments. The case involved a prior judgment obtained in Singapore in 2018, which had subsequently been registered in Malaysia. The casino operator contended that this foreign judgment entitled them to pursue recovery through Malaysian courts. However, the court was unconvinced, stating clearly that foreign decisions are not automatically enforceable when they contradict domestic legal principles. The judgment stipulated that Malaysian courts should prioritize national law and public policy over foreign judgments. The judge pointed out that local statutes explicitly render gambling-related agreements void. Consequently, even a valid judgment from another jurisdiction cannot override these provisions. Ruling Highlights Limits to Foreign Legal Judgments The restaurant owner contested the claim, asserting that the debt was fundamentally a gambling debt, despite being presented as a credit facility. He argued that this classification rendered it legally invalid in Malaysia. The court found this argument persuasive and concluded that the underlying transaction did not create any enforceable rights. The decision also referenced a previous ruling by the Federal Court that affirmed the country's position on gambling debts. This precedent established that such obligations are not legally enforceable, thereby reinforcing the principle that courts cannot compel their repayment. The petition was dismissed, though the court declined to award costs against the casino operator. This outcome underscores the ongoing challenges in cross-border financial disputes involving gambling. While casinos may extend credit and obtain judgments in jurisdictions where gambling is legal, enforcing those judgments in countries with more stringent laws can prove difficult. The case serves as a reminder to international operators that legal victories obtained elsewhere may have limited applicability. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - While SlotCatalog is frequently linked to content visibility and affiliate distribution, this represents only part of its operational scope. The firm has unveiled three key projects that broaden its engagement with game studios, operators, and other industry collaborators. These updates include the introduction of a premium data subscription service, a new affiliate platform set to go live in 2026, and a widened CrossyRun licensing schedule featuring three more game launches planned within the next two months via various providers. Data subscription service SlotCatalog has launched a subscription service centered on its market visibility intelligence. This product is crafted to deliver structured, comparable metrics drawn from online casino lobby exposure and player discovery signals. It aids internal processes like launch strategy, distribution prioritization, and portfolio evaluation. The service leverages SlotCatalog’s ranking systems, such as SlotRank and Provider Rank, which aim to convert visibility trends into analyzable signals across different markets and timeframes. The company’s data is updated daily, sourced from monitoring game exposure on over 2,000 casino websites in more than 50 markets. This subscription is tailored for partners needing regular access to visibility metrics to inform product development, business intelligence, and commercial strategy. Affiliate platform launch in 2026 SlotCatalog has also provided details on an affiliate platform scheduled for a 2026 launch. This platform is described as an extension of the company's discovery and player acquisition framework, with a strong focus on transparency regarding traffic generation and partner value measurement. The proposed model concentrates on intent-driven discovery pathways constructed around organic search behavior, review content, and comparison-based decision-making. According to SlotCatalog, the goal is to connect acquisition efforts with tangible commercial results and visibility metrics, moving beyond dependence on standalone figures. The announcement of the affiliate platform is framed as a component of a larger initiative to standardize partner reporting, attribution analysis, and sustained commercial partnership. CrossyRun roadmap Furthermore, SlotCatalog has detailed an extended plan for CrossyRun, its licensed proprietary "step crash" game mechanic. This mechanism operates on incremental progression, where each step raises the potential win multiplier while also increasing the chance of the round concluding. Building on previous launches, SlotCatalog verified that three more games utilizing the CrossyRun system are scheduled for release in the coming two months, each developed in partnership with different providers. These forthcoming titles are meant to illustrate how the core progression model can be adapted to various themes and volatility settings. SlotCatalog presents its licensing strategy as a method for studios to employ a proven progression structure while maintaining creative control over visual presentation and mathematical models. The initial application of the CrossyRun framework was a joint effort with Evoplay, resulting in the game Uncrossable Rush. This title acted as the first live implementation of the mechanic and influenced the choice to pursue further studio collaborations for the roadmap. “SlotCatalog has an incredibly strong team – professional, proactive – one of the best in the market. The level of expertise, attention to detail, and the way they approach partnerships stands out,” said Diana Larina, Head of Marketing at Evoplay. “Our joint release of Uncrossable Rush is a perfect example. SlotCatalog didn’t just support the launch – their analytical insights actually helped shape the concept itself. And then the team amplified it with well-thought-through promotional activations that made a real difference. This kind of collaboration sets a new benchmark for how providers and affiliate platforms can work side by side.” About SlotCatalog SlotCatalog ranks among the globe's most extensive and detailed data-driven slot ecosystems. The company assists studios, operators, affiliates, and media platforms in improving decision-making by transforming actual traffic, player intent, and casino exposure into practical insights. Its ecosystem encompasses affiliate traffic, market intelligence tools, visibility and distribution services, and proprietary game mechanics. For more information, users can contact SlotCatalog. 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 Isle of Man has reached a significant milestone in updating its gambling framework as the Gambling Legislation (Amendment) Bill passed through Tynwald following the approval of final revisions. The Bill, which is now awaiting Royal Assent, marks a major overhaul of the island’s regulatory system. It is designed to bolster oversight, improve compliance, and ensure the long-term viability of the local iGaming industry. These reforms were developed through extensive collaboration with industry partners throughout 2025 and are being managed by the Gambling Supervision Commission (GSC). “I want to express my gratitude to the many individuals in the e-gaming sector who provided feedback on the implementation and consequences of these updates, as well as the GSC and Treasury staff for drafting this significant legislation,” stated Treasury Minister Chris Thomas, who guided the Bill through the House of Keys for the GSC. “Ms Lord-Brennan MHK, Mr Clueit MLC, and Mrs August-Phillips MLC introduced several vital amendments stemming from this industry engagement as the legislation progressed.” Two major updates At the heart of the changes is the creation of a standardized Fitness and Propriety requirement, which will apply to: Licensed entities Owners and stakeholders Board members and executive management This replaces the previous, disjointed suitability criteria found in the Online Gambling Regulation Act 2001 and the Casino Act 1986. While the current system focuses primarily on integrity, the new framework expands this to include three pillars: integrity, professional competence, and financial stability. The GSC notes that this brings the Isle of Man in line with international best practices and stricter global standards for risk management and governance. The GSC also specified that it may evaluate the associates of any applicants. Another key update is the establishment of a formal civil penalty system, enabled by revisions to the island’s anti-money laundering (AML) laws. Under the new rules, the GSC will have the power to: Levy financial fines on operators Set penalty amounts based on the specifics of each case Adhere to a structured process that includes notification and appeal rights For the first time, fines can also be levied against individuals, such as owners, key personnel, and senior executives, if violations occur through “consent, connivance or negligence,” particularly regarding AML/CFT (Anti-Money Laundering/Combatting the Financing of Terrorism) regulations. This represents a significant move toward personal liability, mirroring regulatory shifts seen in major markets like the UK and the EU. The GSC is currently holding consultations on the application of the new Fitness and Propriety standard and the specific guidance for civil penalties, with both open for feedback until 25 May. Operators in the region will face more stringent vetting and executive oversight as the Isle of Man seeks to tighten regulations on a sector that accounts for approximately 14% of its national income, according to recent data. Isle of Man strengthens its position The Isle of Man is the latest jurisdiction to take such action, as gambling oversight intensifies globally to combat illicit operations and the increasing use of fraud and money laundering tactics. This follows a report last month in which the Isle of Man’s GSC increased its money laundering risk rating to ‘medium high’ following a National Risk Assessment (NRA). As one of the world’s longest-standing iGaming hubs, the island has been proactive in recent years with updates intended to safeguard its reputation. Although its 0% corporate tax on gaming profits remains a draw for international companies, the island has recently aligned with the UK’s stance, committing to more rigorous supervision of both current and prospective licensees. 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) - Full-year financial results from William Hill's parent company evoke paint a mixed performance picture for the firm that is currently seeking a buyer. Some industry observers find the timing of evoke's FY25 results release somewhat unusual. While the LSE-listed gambling firm is publishing its 2025 full-year financial statements now, most of its peer companies are already releasing their Q1 2026 performance figures. This delay in publishing results is likely linked to ongoing discussions the company has been holding with Bally's Intralot over a potential acquisition. Both parties confirmed these talks earlier this month, with Bally's evaluating a bid of 50p per evoke share, putting the company's total valuation at $225m. So what do the FY25 results reveal about the company's standing? First, the positive metrics: revenue climbed 2% year-over-year to £1.78bn, up from £1.75bn in the prior period, while profitability also saw meaningful progress as EBITDA jumped 43% from £211.4m to £301.3m. Per Widerström, evoke's Chief Executive Officer, stated: “Across 2025, we delivered steady operational improvements that created a more efficient, focused and disciplined business, delivering higher marketing returns, tighter cost control, improved operating leverage, and a transformative shift in underlying profitability.” Turning now to the negative points. Despite the EBITDA-related profitability gains, evoke still operates at a loss. After-tax losses surged a substantial 149% from £220.9m to £549.1m, while the group's net debt for the year reached a staggering £1.9bn. This debt load will be a key consideration for Bally's Intralot. Bally's Intralot also carries a high level of debt, incurred when Intralot took out loans to fund its acquisition of Bally's International Interactive, the transaction that led to the company's formation last year. If Bally's Intralot's offer is accepted by the 18 May deadline, developing a plan to eliminate this debt, or at minimum incorporate it into long-term strategic planning, will be a top priority. However, as Widerström and Sean Wilkins, evoke's Chief Financial Officer, emphasized to analysts during the company's earnings call earlier today, the group has put extensive work into cutting operational costs… evoke’s UK&I performance remains resilient … for now Evoke reports its revenue across two core segments: UK&I, and International. The UK&I segment is further split into two subsegments: retail, which covers William Hill's high street betting operations; and online, which includes William Hill Online, the 888 portfolio of betting, gaming and bingo brands, and the Mr Green casino. Total UK&I revenue fell 2% last year, dropping from £1.2bn to £1.17bn. Declines were recorded across both retail and online divisions, though the online drop was actually steeper than the retail decrease – a trend that stands out against Gambling Commission data showing online gross gaming yield (GGY) has risen consistently quarter-on-quarter, while retail GGY falls steadily. In response to falling retail performance, evoke carried out a comprehensive review of its William Hill brick-and-mortar portfolio during Q1. This process led the company to decide to close 270 underperforming William Hill shops, a move confirmed in today's announcement. “We are well aware of the broader macro trend of digital outperforming retail,” said Widerström, in response to a question from SBC News during this morning's call. “The entire sector is facing cost pressures, but as we laid out in our report, we completed a very thorough review of our retail estate, and identified 230 shops that we will be closing. “We have over 1,000 excellent remaining locations that deliver great service and entertainment to our customers, and with this more streamlined retail portfolio, we have meaningfully boosted long-term sustainability, cash flow and profitability.” Wilkins offered additional context for the results, attributing the overall 2% UK&I revenue drop to 'operator-friendly sports results' during the fourth quarter. He also revealed that 888 brand revenue in the UK and Ireland fell 8% specifically. Still, the CFO emphasized that 'gaming performance remained steady', driven largely by 'strong results from William Hill'. He added that the firm is 'focused on securing appropriate ROI before scaling up any further investment' in the UK market. Unquestionably, the group's UK&I outlook will be shaped by the new tax regime that came into effect on 1 April 2026. While he acknowledged it is still too early to assess the full impact of the new taxes, Wilkins offered an optimistic forecast. “We initially projected the tax impact would be between £125-£130m, and I now expect that figure will be slightly lower, as we have revised our UK revenue expectations downwards,” he said, responding to a question from analysts. “We are already rolling out the 50% mitigation measures we previously announced. We also expect market consolidation to occur, which will allow us to grow our market share. In the first 30 days of the new regime, we have actually seen no negative impact at all. The company is pleased with how the UK&I online segment is performing.” International division – a mixed picture for evoke’s ‘growth engine’ Per Wilkins, the international segment was evoke's 'growth engine' throughout 2025. However, he added that the division's performance still fell short of the company's expectations. International revenue rose 9.3% from £555.2m to £606.9m. EBITDA also climbed 49.2% from £130m to £175.4m. Growth in Italy, Denmark and Romania was cited as the main driver behind these gains. According to Wilkins, the firm is continuing to grow its market share in Romania, following its acquisition of Winner.ro in August 2024. However, company leadership also noted ongoing challenges in the Romanian market. “Romania has seen sharp growth in black market activity following a recent tax hike, and as regulated operators, this is negatively impacting our business,” said Wilkins, echoing a common industry concern raised across the UK, Netherlands, Germany and other markets. “We have had to scale back marketing and promotional activity to protect profitability, while unregulated black market operators do not face the same constraints, which puts pressure on our revenue.” He also cited the impact of Romania's recession as a drag on business performance in the country. Outside of Romania, leadership expressed disappointment with results in Spain, where performance was described as 'flat'. Looking ahead, evoke clearly has significant potential across its brand portfolio, and given the strength of these brands, it is no surprise the group has attracted acquisition interest ever since it launched a strategic review in December 2025. However, ongoing operating losses and a heavy debt burden could hold the company back, and leadership appears fully aware of these risks. “Our core focus for 2026 is heavily centered on cash generation and strengthening our balance sheet,” said Wilkins. Following the release of its FY25 results, evoke's share price has stayed largely stable, edging down slightly by 0.90% to hold at roughly 40p per share. 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 second day of SBC Summit Malta has officially commenced, and it is already proving to be a busy day filled with engaging discussions. Today’s agenda covers a wide range of topics, including the future of casino, strategies for overcoming SEO attacks, and how to create a standout World Cup offering. Additionally, discussions will address the evolving affiliate landscape, the increasing impact of AI, and the emerging trends shaping the iGaming workforce. Similar to yesterday, we will provide updates on the key developments at this week’s SBC Summit Malta, with live news brought to you by ELA Games. The on-site team for today consists of Martyn Elliott, Ted Menmuir, Craig Davies, Joe Streeter, Jyoti Rambhai, Viktor Kayed, and Luke Miles. They will be delivering all the latest news from SBC News, iGaming Expert, and Affiliate Leaders. This live coverage is made possible with the support of ELA Games. ELA Games is a prominent slot provider within the iGaming industry, committed to delivering captivating player experiences through its high-quality slot games. Since its establishment in 2022, the company has been focused on building a strong reputation in the sector by offering games with superior graphics, highly interactive gameplay, and innovative features. The provider’s portfolio is rapidly expanding, with an emphasis on creating immersive experiences through compelling stories and narrative-driven entertainment, alongside a diverse array of other engaging titles. You can play the demo and explore more of ELA Games’ titles here. 10:30am: AI – the future of affiliation? Reporting by Jyoti Rambhai, Editor of Affiliate Leaders Affiliate management is a skill that marketers acquire through practical experience rather than formal education, as highlighted by Elaine Gardiner, Managing Director at TAG Media. She noted that this lack of standardized training leads to "no uniform terminology… everyone call these things different things.” Gardiner conducted an experiment to assess how different LLMs would interpret affiliate-related queries. One of the questions she posed was: “I’m looking at my affiliates’ stats. They have 4 NDCs and 5 FTDs. What does that mean? What is the difference?” She found that “ChatGPT is the most disappointing,” which is particularly concerning as it is “the most common one people are using.” “It just gave me a lot of fluff,” Gardiner stated, adding, “[…] It said I should check the IP addresses.” In contrast, Claude “could not understand the small nuances in the industry.” However, Gardiner praised the performance of “well done Elon Musk (with Grok) and Gemini),” as these platforms provided the most relevant answers. 10:20am: Scale is a weapon when combatting SEO fraud Reporting by Joe Streeter, Editor of iGaming Expert The conference sessions for day two have begun… This morning, Ivana Flynn is leading the discussions, focusing on the rise of DCMA SEO fraud and its implications for global iGaming markets. As malicious actors become increasingly sophisticated, it is crucial for legitimate affiliates to stay ahead of the curve regarding the threat of site scraping. 10:00 am: Welcome back! We are back and ready for day two at SBC Summit Malta! Yesterday was a highly successful day featuring conferences, exhibitions, and networking opportunities. To conclude the day, the team attended the VIP affiliate and operator dinners, followed by the official party at Infinity by Hugo’s – it was a memorable evening! Today is already shaping up to be an excellent day. The weather is sunny, the Intercontinental is bustling with attendees, and we are anticipating a great day of conference sessions. With numerous workshops and insightful panel discussions scheduled, we will be bringing you the most significant stories of the day, delivered live by ELA Games. 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 civil action initiated in Nevada state court claims that two Las Vegas gaming establishments failed to stop a long-running sex trafficking operation involving the convicted felon Nathan Chasing Horse. The lawsuit names Station Casinos’ Santa Fe Station and Boyd Gaming’s Cannery Casino, asserting that both venues allowed Chasing Horse to utilize hotel suites for trafficking purposes for nearly ten years. Eyes Wide Shut The two plaintiffs, identified as M.L. and C.L. in legal documents, assert they were victimized between 2014 and 2022. The filing of their lawsuit on April 27, 2026, occurred the same day that former actor Chasing Horse was sentenced to life imprisonment following his conviction on sexual abuse and trafficking charges. The legal complaint states that the man, known for his role in "Dances With Wolves," would often reserve multiple rooms at the two properties and receive free stays while using the premises for habitual abuse. The plaintiffs claim that casino staff noticed several red flags, such as visible trauma, exhaustion, restricted movement, and constant supervision by Chasing Horse. The suit also alleges that employees saw the women being strictly controlled on the casino floors and prevented from speaking freely with staff. In certain instances, it is claimed that employees even tipped off Chasing Horse regarding the presence of police at the hotel. The lawsuit contends that the high volume of activity near the hotel rooms should have been enough to spark concern, yet neither establishment reported the suspicious behavior or moved to protect those being harmed. It further charges the casinos with failing to establish sufficient anti-trafficking training or enforcement measures. “The Circle” Chasing Horse, characterized in court papers as a self-proclaimed spiritual guide, allegedly employed isolation, manipulation, and violence to manage victims within a group he referred to as “The Circle.” During the criminal trial, prosecutors stated that he victimized vulnerable Indigenous women and girls, utilizing psychological control and coercion. The civil suit also claims that victims were led to believe the abuse was a spiritual ritual and were met with physical violence and threats. It further notes that victims were marked with tattoos that hotel employees could have seen. The plaintiffs are currently seeking unspecified punitive and compensatory damages. A date for the court proceedings has not been established. 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) - As U.S. lawmakers work to secure stricter regulations for prediction markets, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) linked to political event contracts are close to hitting the market—and the timeline is earlier than expected. Specifically, per Roundhill Investments’ filed Form N-1A, this could happen as soon as next week—and Roundhill isn’t the only firm moving forward with such plans. Six ETFs, Underway The 2018-founded SEC-registered investment advisor focused on innovative ETFs first revealed its plan to launch six ETFs tied to key U.S. election outcomes in February, when it submitted the form to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. These funds cover Democratic and Republican results for the presidency, House of Representatives, and Senate. If greenlit, the ETFs could start trading on May 5. The proposed offerings are the Roundhill Democratic President ETF (BLUP), Roundhill Republican President ETF (REDP), Roundhill Democratic Senate ETF (BLUS), Roundhill Republican Senate ETF (REDS), Roundhill Democratic House ETF (BLUH), and Roundhill Republican House ETF (REDH). The structure of these ETFs will mirror election results. When a party secures control of a legislative chamber, the corresponding ETF linked to that outcome gains value, while the opposing fund declines. The presidential ETFs are also designed to extend beyond a single election cycle. After the 2028 election, they are expected to transition to products tracking the 2032 race instead of being shut down. Roundhill, known for its Roundhill Sports Betting & iGaming ETF, has expanded its filings beyond politics too. The firm has proposed two additional funds tied to recession outcomes: the Roundhill Recession Yes ETF (GDPD) and Roundhill Recession No ETF (GDPU), which will monitor whether the U.S. economy enters a downturn. Others Follow Suit Another issuer, GraniteShares, has nearly identical plans. In filings submitted earlier this week, the company listed May 8 as the effective date for its own election-related ETFs, which cover Democratic and Republican outcomes across the presidency, Senate, and House. Like Roundhill’s products, GraniteShares’ funds will update after each election cycle, shifting focus to future contests such as the 2028 midterms or the 2032 presidential election. Bitwise Investments is a third issuer that filed for similar ETFs but hasn’t yet updated its application. All three firms have stated they intend to work with designated contract markets to source the underlying election-linked contracts, though they did not mention any specific providers. 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) - Australian gambling leader Tabcorp has taken action to prohibit a number of well-known professional bettors, highlighting how wagering firms handle risk and their approach to successful clients. Tabcorp Excludes Top Bettors Citing Risk and Compliance A number of prominent punters were informed last week that their ability to bet via online platforms or retail locations was being revoked. “Owing to their internal risk management structure, continuing the relationship was no longer viable, leading to a permanent exclusion from all betting channels,” stated the company. According to The Australian Financial Review, the individuals involved were reportedly surprised and are currently exploring potential legal recourse. Sources within the sector indicated the decision was connected to growing compliance demands, though the company declined to discuss specific instances. Reportedly, the operator is concentrating on confirming customers' financial histories and fulfilling duties related to anti-money laundering and responsible gambling supervision. Nevertheless, industry critics suggest consistent winning may also have played a part, with some alleging that regulatory guidelines serve as a pretext to reduce dealings with profitable customers. This action occurs amid increasing scrutiny on betting companies to enhance safeguards and lower financial crime risks. In recent years, regulators have intensified supervision, mandating firms to adopt stricter monitoring and conduct more thorough customer reviews. Tabcorp has in the past allocated resources to sophisticated analytics technology to detect irregular betting activity and possible issues as they happen. Punters Complain of Locked Accounts and Poor Transparency Concurrently, grievances from regular customers have fueled the ongoing debate. Some bettors report having their accounts suspended for extended durations without explanation, preventing access to their funds. Others describe undergoing lengthy verification procedures and encountering difficulties receiving responses from support staff. There are accounts of betting privileges being restricted soon after a series of successful wagers, reinforcing perceptions that winning players face heightened scrutiny. The firm emphasized that all measures are taken in line with regulatory obligations and corporate protocols, noting its responsibility to adhere to compliance norms. However, patrons have denounced the opacity of the process, with some doubting the sufficiency of available channels to contest decisions. The recent steps by Tabcorp also signal a strategic realignment under its present management, which is increasingly oriented toward retail wagering in venues like pubs and clubs. By tightening oversight on certain client groups, the operator seems to be prioritizing steady operations and sustained risk control over income derived from a limited pool of high-volume gamblers. For the broader sector, however, this incident may represent a significant moment. With regulatory demands growing, wagering firms are likely to take a more decisive part in defining their acceptable client risk thresholds, which could alter the equilibrium between business autonomy and equitable treatment of consumers. 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.