香港及亞洲地區科技金融公司新聞(包括AI、區塊鏈、數字貨幣、外匯等)

Posts by admin:

DraftKings eyes Alberta for online betting and casino debut

(AsiaGameHub) -   DraftKings has revealed its intention to introduce its online sportsbook and casino offerings in Alberta, pending the necessary regulatory and licensing approvals from the Canadian province. Alberta residents can now sign up in advance for DraftKings Sportsbook and casino services prior to the projected market launch. The provincial government confirmed earlier this month that Alberta's regulated market is scheduled to become active on July 13. Upon approval, Alberta would represent DraftKings' second Canadian online market, coming after its launch in Ontario in May 2022, which occurred soon after that province initiated its regulated iGaming industry. Greg Karamitis, Executive Vice President and General Manager of sports at DraftKings, stated: We are thrilled by the chance to grow DraftKings' presence in Canada and deliver our online sportsbook and casino offerings to Alberta customers. The planned launch coinciding with the World Cup, which is being hosted in North America, creates a uniquely exciting opportunity for sports enthusiasts in the province to interact with our platform. A launch in Alberta would signify the 34th North American jurisdiction where DraftKings provides online sports betting, and the seventh to feature its online casino products. The company has persisted in expanding its reach throughout the region. In February, the Arkansas Racing Commission gave unanimous approval for a vendor licence that permits DraftKings to commence operations in Arkansas. This licence was secured following a collaboration with Southland Casino Hotel, which subsequently swapped its Betly-branded mobile sportsbook for the DraftKings platform. Concurrently, FanDuel also gained approval to access the Arkansas market via a partnership with Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort. As Alberta gets ready to inaugurate its regulated market, DraftKings is establishing itself for a prompt entry, furthering its wider strategy of North American expansion and leveraging major sporting events to boost user engagement. 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.

Vegangster Integrates JackpotX Across Five Brands, Achieves 25% Opt-In Rate.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Vegangster has broadened its collaboration with Shared Luck through the implementation of JackpotX, a player-funded jackpot network now active on five of its client brands. Initial data indicates an approximate 25% average opt-in rate, as players actively select to participate using a straightforward toggle switch. In these implementations, JackpotX operates as a player-funded mechanism, where a small part of each player's activity feeds into a communal prize pool. This generates an ever-increasing jackpot that operates concurrently with regular play, introducing a constant incentive to bet without disrupting the primary game. This approach differs from conventional fixed or operator-funded jackpots by scaling directly with player engagement. The more players join, the larger the prize becomes, which in turn enhances its prominence and player involvement. For casino operators, the integration adds a powerful retention and revenue tool directly linked to player traffic. Since the jackpot is financed by gameplay itself, it lessens the need for significant upfront marketing investment while still fostering a compelling cycle of engagement. Michael Oziransky, Chief Product Officer at Vegangster, commented: “The key advantage of JackpotX is its adaptability. Operators can manage jackpots across multiple brands and customize their functionality, all with access to real-time data. This enabled us to adopt a player-funded model that enhances engagement without requiring extra budget from the operator.” The integration demands little ongoing operational effort and can be rolled out across different brands easily, enabling operators to rapidly launch engagement features powered by jackpots. With JackpotX now operational and expanding, Vegangster and Shared Luck intend to deepen their partnership, concentrating on more advanced gamification features and a broader deployment throughout Vegangster's client network. About SharedLuck SharedLuck develops engagement infrastructure for the online casino industry. Its flagship product, JackpotX, offers versatile jackpot setup, management for multiple brands, live analytics, and tools designed to improve player retention and boost total casino earnings. About Vegangster Vegangster delivers a comprehensive iGaming platform built for high performance, scalability, and operator autonomy. Its all-in-one, white-label, and sweepstakes solutions combine casino and sports betting content, payment processing, CRM, compliance, and social functionalities into a unified, mobile-focused system. Vegangster empowers operators to enter the market swiftly and expand reliably. Press contact Romans Kozlovskis Senior Content & PR Manager r.kozlovskis@vegangster.com 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.

N1 SEO Traffic Cup: Final Two Weeks to Win

(AsiaGameHub) -   The N1 SEO Traffic Cup, the inaugural tournament within the N1 Traffic Cups series presented by N1 Partners, is approaching its conclusion, with April 30 marking the final day of the promotion. More than 250 teams are actively directing traffic to N1 Partners brands, and the opportunity to win is open to everyone, regardless of when they joined the competition. Securing the main rewards is entirely achievable, as final standings are determined by team efficiency, with no limit on the number of winning positions. All participants who reach one of the four prize tiers will receive an award, emphasizing the importance of enhancing performance metrics. Discover strategies to improve your current standing within the remaining two weeks, or join the competition effectively even at this late stage! Expert Advice for Driving Traffic in the N1 SEO Traffic Cup Continuous improvement of results is always possible, especially with access to up-to-date analytics. The N1 Partners team has facilitated this by sharing insights from SEO specialists: Optimal iGaming SEO Strategies Currently, traditional SEO listings featuring offerwalls, cross-brand SEO, and parasite SEO tactics across multiple Tier-1 GEOs are demonstrating strong performance. Top N1 Partners Products for SEO Traffic Products exhibiting excellent conversion rates and stability include HollyWin, Slot Mafia, Lucky Hunter, RollXO, and Slot Lounge. Leading GEOs for SEO Traffic Markets such as Australia, Germany, Canada, Austria, Switzerland, New Zealand, and Norway are yielding significant results and are popular among N1 SEO Traffic Cup participants. These regions boast a broad, solvent audience, enabling both high traffic volumes and substantial average check values. Have you identified your target GEO and strategy? Register on the N1 SEO Traffic Cup landing page and aim for the top of the leaderboard! N1 SEO Traffic Cup: Frequently Asked Questions for Late Entrants The N1 Partners team recognizes that joining later can seem daunting, so they have compiled common affiliate queries and provided practical guidance. Where should a new affiliate begin to maximize their impact in the initial 48 hours? “For affiliates joining in the final two weeks, the key to success is focus. I recommend immediately concentrating on familiar GEOs and brands to secure the first FTDs as quickly as possible. The subsequent step involves assessing your capacity to manage multiple brands. In the N1 SEO Traffic Cup, the number of brands directly influences the Brand Coefficient and overall performance. Naturally, collaborating with your affiliate manager from the outset is crucial for establishing the most direct path to initial results. There isn't a single fixed prize; affiliates can achieve any reward level. Even if an affiliate doesn't reach a specific tier, generating a minimum of 20 FTDs on at least one brand qualifies them for the prize draw. This ensures there are no losers, and participation is viable at any point,” states Alexa Bond, Head of Affiliates at N1 Partners. What common errors do participants make when attempting to accelerate their efforts before the final deadline? “The most frequent mistake is attempting rapid scaling by exploring new GEOs and strategies where the team lacks expertise. This typically results in inefficient resource allocation, reduced quality, and increased expenditure. In the worst-case scenario, campaigns may be halted. At this final stage, it is far more important to maintain focus on stable traffic sources and further optimize existing strategies rather than experimenting with new directions,” explains Dmitry Filippov, Affiliate Team Lead (SEO) at N1 Partners. Join the N1 SEO Traffic Cup — two weeks is sufficient to win! N1 SEO Traffic Cup: Understanding the Conditions Period: March 1 – April 30, 2026 Results: by May 10 Entry: from 20 FTD per brand The process is straightforward: you earn points (N1 Cup Score) based on generated FTDs, which are then multiplied by the brand coefficient. The more brands you engage with, the higher your multiplier and the faster your results will grow: 1 brand — x1 2–3 brands — x2 4+ brands — x5 This mechanism allows for not only scaling traffic volumes but also accelerating growth by directing traffic to multiple products. Find out more about the conditions and rewards here! N1 Partners is a multi-brand affiliate program offering: 14+ casino and sportsbook brands with Reg2Dep up to 70% 10+ Tier-1 GEOs CPA up to €700 and RevShare up to 45% + NNCO for top partners + hybrid models Be number one with N1! 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.

Team Vitality triumphs at IEM Rio, captures second straight ESL Grand Slam

(AsiaGameHub) -   On Sunday night, Team Vitality emerged victorious in the IEM Rio grand final, defeating Team Spirit with a clean 3-0 sweep. This win marks the organization's fourth championship of the 2026 season and earns them a second straight ESL Grand Slam. According to the team, this achievement establishes their Counter-Strike squad as the first ever to secure consecutive ESL Grand Slams. The Rio triumph followed earlier ESL competition wins at IEM Dallas 2025, ESL Pro League 2025, and IEM Kraków 2026, finalizing the Grand Slam requirement and granting a $1,000,000 bonus. The IEM Rio event, which included 16 teams, was held before a live audience in Brazil. Vitality's lineup—consisting of Dan "apEX" Madesclaire, Mathieu "ZywOo" Herbaut, Robin "ropz" Kool, William "mezii" Merriman, and Shahar "flameZ" Shushan—progressed through the playoffs with 2-0 victories over NAVI and FURIA, despite losing one map earlier in the event to G2. Vitality announced that Herbaut received the tournament's Most Valuable Player award. The organization also stated that Kool is now the first player to win three ESL Grand Slam titles in a row, noting his prior Grand Slam victory with FaZe Clan in Season 4. “We are maintaining the high standards set in 2025 throughout 2026, accumulating wins. During this tournament, I observed a team having fun and competing not just for victory, but with the goal of making history by becoming the sole organization to secure two ESL Grand Slams. It is important to note that merely five teams have ever won one, underscoring the magnitude of this accomplishment,” explains Fabien “Neo” Devide, co-founder of Team Vitality. “This is a defining moment for these remarkable players and the club's heritage. They are positioning Team Vitality as not just the top CS2 club globally, but potentially among the finest ever. We are in a remarkable period. We must remain grounded and savor it.” 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.

Kalshi plans to introduce a “Parent Portal” to curb underage usage

(AsiaGameHub) -   Kalshi, a prediction market platform, has unveiled new measures to restrict minors from accessing its services, including tools that can detect when someone uses a parent’s identification to create an account and upgraded identity verification systems. Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Tarek Mansour shared these remarks during the Semafor World Economy conference, walking through how Kalshi is working to close the common loophole many minors use to bypass age restrictions by creating an account with their parent’s personal information. One of Kalshi’s flagship initiatives is to launch a parent-facing portal that allows individuals to verify whether another party is using their personal data to access the platform without their consent. Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Tarek Mansour stated: We’re rolling out a parent portal where people can submit their identification—even if they have no interest in becoming Kalshi users—to check if their information is being misused. That way, they can confirm if their child is using their ID and take action to address the issue. This system is designed to operate independently of the platform’s user base, meaning individuals do not need a Kalshi account to check for potential unauthorized use of their information. This approach grants parents greater visibility and control if their identity has been used to bypass age restrictions. Kalshi is also strengthening its onboarding process by introducing AI-powered facial verification. New users will be required to upload a selfie, which will be compared against the identification they submit. Mansour explained that the goal is to establish a framework of accountability within trusted social and family circles: How can we build a system of accountability among friends and family where people can speak up and say, “Hey, you might be going a little too far here”? We want this to be a tool for good, not one that enables excessive behavior. As it implements these new compliance measures, Kalshi is taking a proactive stance to address underage platform use and increase user accountability. Kalshi also operates within an evolving regulatory environment, and we expect upcoming rulings will impact the regulation of prediction markets in the U.S. 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.

Golden Whale and Text.com team up for AI-driven player communications

(AsiaGameHub) -   Golden Whale and Text.com have entered a partnership to combine Golden Whale’s decision intelligence models with Text.com’s unified communications platform, according to the two companies. As part of the agreement, Golden Whale’s self-improving models— which analyze real-time player behavior data— will feed into Text.com’s multi-channel infrastructure, allowing operators to send messages via live chat, messaging apps, email, and SMS, the companies stated. Golden Whale noted that the integration is designed to support a closed-loop workflow where prediction, decision-making, and message delivery are connected, shifting operators from campaign-based messaging to agent-led interactions. Eberhard Dürrschmid, CEO at Golden Whale, said: “Historically, there has been a gap between knowing what action to take and delivering it to players in the right way and at the optimal moment. By collaborating with Text.com, we are closing that gap. Our ML models identify the most relevant next action, and through Text.com’s agentic communication capabilities, that action can be executed instantly and intelligently across the appropriate channel. This enables operators to move toward more responsive, data-driven engagement without increasing operational complexity.” Emilia Wodyk‑Zalewska, Account Managers Leader at Text, added: “This is just the start of our journey with Golden Whale, and we are excited about the future. By merging behavioral data with our platform, we will turn simple messages into smart, automated conversations. Soon, operators will deliver the right interaction at the perfect time—effortlessly and at any scale.” 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.

Chilean Supreme Court orders broader blocking of mirror gambling sites

(AsiaGameHub) -   Chile’s Supreme Court has issued a ruling requiring telecommunications service providers to block access not only to primary gambling websites, but also to these operators’ secondary mirror sites. This decision notably bolsters government efforts to eliminate illegal online gambling across the country. Prior to this Supreme Court verdict, a ruling from the Santiago Appeals Court had found that telecom companies had fulfilled their required obligations. That lower court concluded that the firms had successfully blocked access to the main domains of unlicensed gambling operators. The case originated from a legal action aimed at forcing major telecom providers including Claro, Entel, GTD, Movistar, WOM, and VTR to restrict access to gambling websites that are currently illegal to operate in Chile. While the telecom companies had complied with orders to block access to the primary URLs of targeted sites, they argued that restricting access to secondary mirror sites would present technical challenges and carry a risk of unintended disruptions to other unrelated internet services. The Appeals Court agreed with this argument, ruling that only primary domains needed to be blocked under existing orders, and closed the case as resolved. The Supreme Court rejected the reasoning put forward by the Appeals Court. It determined that prior rulings had not been sufficiently implemented, leaving unlicensed gambling services accessible to users because the original blocking orders had only been partially carried out. The Supreme Court also pointed out an additional error in the lower court’s ruling: the Appeals Court had stated that full enforcement of the blocking orders was impracticable, while at the same time declaring the matter fully resolved and closed. In a notable development, the Supreme Court upheld a complaint against the appellate judges, citing “serious fault or abuse” in their handling of the case. This move underscores the top court’s strict stance on ensuring effective enforcement for matters involving unregulated digital activity. The case has now been sent back to the Court of Appeals for reconsideration, with explicit instructions to guarantee full compliance with all required blocking measures. Under the Supreme Court’s revised interpretation of the requirements, telecom companies are now obligated to: Identify and block mirror and alternative domains operated by illegal gambling platforms Ensure that access restrictions are applied to more than just primary URLs of targeted sites Roll out more comprehensive technical measures to prevent users from circumventing the blocks Wider Implications By mandating the blocking of both primary and mirror sites for illegal gambling operators, Chile’s Supreme Court has set a new precedent for digital regulation enforcement. The decision reflects a shift toward stricter regulatory oversight, and signals that partial compliance will no longer be considered acceptable when addressing unlicensed online 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.

A PLAYER TURNS A $0.20 BET INTO $3,000 CAD WITH A 15,000× PAYOUT IN 7RINGS GAMING’S SLOT MAYAN APOCALYPTO

(AsiaGameHub) -   7Rings Gaming has reported a significant win on its ‘Mayan Apocalypto’ slot, with a player achieving a payout of 15,000 times their initial bet. This remarkable win saw a player transform a 0.20 Canadian dollar wager into 3,000 Canadian dollars during a single gaming session. This payout matches the game's highest possible multiplier. A full replay of the winning session is available via the provided link. Mayan Apocalypto is a high-volatility slot game that immerses players in a mystical ancient Mayan temple setting. The game features a 5x5 grid and blends traditional payline structures with contemporary gameplay elements, including dynamic Wild symbols and multipliers within the bonus rounds. 7Rings Gaming is a rapidly expanding iGaming studio, boasting a portfolio of 18 titles and releasing between one and three new games each month. The company serves a client base of over 300 operators worldwide, including prominent industry brands. The studio's strategy centers on developing distinctive, character-focused games that combine striking visual design with features aimed at enhancing player engagement. These features include leaderboards, indicators for 'hot' and 'cold' game states, and the functionality to share replays of substantial wins. 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.

Stake’s March 2026 Performance Report: Key Moments from Casino and Sports Betting

(AsiaGameHub) -   March 2026 saw notable activity for Stake, with high volumes of player engagement across both its casino game library and sports betting platform. Players showed strong interest in exploring a wide range of offerings that month, including exclusive titles such as Bank Basher and Waylanders Forge, alongside fresh gaming experiences. One of the key milestones for Stake in March was the launch of the new Moles casino game, marking another expansion of the platform's content portfolio. The Stake Engine community sustained its already high levels of player participation across both the official Forum and Discord server. Beyond these updates, Stake also secured two major partnerships in March: one with Astralis, a leading esports organization, and another with professional footballer Eden Hazard. Lastly, a new feature called WinSAFE has rolled out exclusively for Twist Gaming slots, making its first appearance alongside the new Cult of Cash WinSAFE slot title. Casino & Sports Betting Performance Stake logged a total of 7.83 billion casino bets in March, averaging over 2,900 bets placed each second. Most popular category: Slots (2.26 billion bets) Top Stake Original: Dice (2.23 billion bets) Notable large wins: $9.7 million payout on Le Fisherman $1.1 million record for highest single bet payout on Sugar Rush 1000 For the sportsbook segment: 70.25 million total bets placed across all sports Largest payout: $1.8 million (from the LA Lakers vs Houston Rockets matchup) Most popular sport category: Soccer (35.8 million bets, making up over 50% of total sports wagers) Most Popular Casino Offerings Top Performing Slot Games Pragmatic Play claimed all five top spots in the slot game rankings: Joker’s Jewels Gates of Olympus 1000 Sweet Bonanza 1000 Big Bass Rock and Roll Gates of Olympus Super Scatter Top New Game Releases Rabbit Heist Mummy’s Jewels 100 Gift Bonanza Big Bass Raceday Repeat Le Bunny Top Live Casino Offerings Crazy Time Ice Fishing Stake Roulette Roulette Lobby Stake Exclusive Speed Baccarat 1 Top Stake-Exclusive Games Bank Basher — 32.7M bets Waylanders Forge — 29.7M bets Big Bass BOOM — 14.2M bets Sweet Fiesta — 14.1M bets Dragonspire — 13.6M bets Top Performing Stake Engine Games Wings of Valhalla — 8.7M bets Sword Drop — 8.1M bets Orbs of Magic — 7.5M bets Wild Frontier — 7.2M bets LepreCash — 7.1M bets Most Popular Game Providers Stake Originals Pragmatic Play Hacksaw Gaming NoLimit City Twist Gaming Stake continues to offer a range of educational resources for both casino gaming and sports betting users, including beginner tutorials, strategy guides, and clear odds explanations. Players also have access to ongoing promotions, VIP loyalty rewards, and community-focused challenges to enhance their overall platform experience. Stake prioritizes responsible gambling via its Stake Smart toolkit, which includes budgeting functionalities and support resources designed to help users maintain control over their gaming activity. 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.

PartnerMatrix Becomes Panel Sponsor at AffPapa Conference Madrid

(AsiaGameHub) -   AffPapa is thrilled to share that PartnerMatrix will be joining the AffPapa Conference Madrid 2026 as a Panel Sponsor and will also be exhibiting at booth №12. PartnerMatrix is a highly decorated affiliate and agent management platform built for iGaming, used by over 250 operators across various markets to boost customer acquisition and enhance performance. This software covers everything from real-time statistics and transparent reporting to flexible multi-tier commission structures and full program oversight. Customizable for different regions and supported by 24/7 assistance, PartnerMatrix enables teams to launch, scale, and refine their affiliate operations without the typical complexities. PartnerMatrix issued a statement saying: PartnerMatrix will be attending the AffPapa Conference in Madrid as both an exhibitor and panel sponsor. Our CEO, Vahe Khalatyan, will join the “The CEO Toolkit: Scaling, Structuring & Winning in Competitive Markets” panel, sharing his expert insights during the discussion. Stop by booth №12 to learn how PartnerMatrix supports affiliate marketing setup and expansion through software, data-driven intelligence, and strategic execution. If scaling your business in competitive markets is your top priority, this is the ideal place to launch that conversation. Hosted from May 18 to May 20 at the Novotel Madrid Center, AffPapa Conference Madrid will welcome more than 1,500 industry professionals, with a demographic split of 40% affiliates, 40% operators, and 20% B2B providers. The full three-day agenda includes pre-conference side events, speed-dating sessions, panel discussions, an AI workshop presented by createIT, the 2026 AffPapa iGaming Awards ceremony, plus a closing party hosted with DJ Kryoman. Yeva Avagyan, Head of Commercial at AffPapa, noted: With PartnerMatrix serving as both a panel sponsor and exhibitor, booth №12 is sure to be a bustling hub. We are excited to see the connections they forge develop into lasting partnerships down the line! PartnerMatrix invites all attendees of the AffPapa Conference Madrid 2026 to visit booth №12 to network, connect, and discuss potential collaborative partnerships. 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.

EU CourtDelivers Setback to Malta’s Freedom of Movement Arguments in Gambling Case

(AsiaGameHub) -   Malta’s legal defense of its gaming framework and licensing system has suffered another setback following a ruling from the European Court of Justice (ECJ), which backed the interpretation that EU member states may restrict online gambling services from operators licensed in other member states without violating EU law. This case forms part of a broader dispute between German authorities and Malta-based gambling operators, including subsidiaries of Lottoland, centered on the enforcement of national gambling restrictions versus EU “freedom to provide services” principles. The ECJ’s preliminary ruling confirmed that countries such as Germany can keep bans on online slot machines and certain lottery betting products, and that players may also pursue damages against operators that were unlicensed or operating in violation of national rules. The conflict originates from long-running disagreements over whether licenses issued by the Maltese Gaming Authority (MGA) should allow operators to offer services across the EU under the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), which guarantees freedom of services within the bloc. Germany’s previously fragmented regulatory system was ultimately replaced by the Interstate Treaty on Gambling, which took effect in July 2021 after years of negotiations between the country’s federal states. The reform introduced a formal licensing framework for online gambling, but disputes remain over activity that took place before regulation was fully established. Malta has consistently maintained that MGA-licensed operators acted lawfully under EU internal market rules during periods when Germany’s regulatory system was inconsistent or incomplete. Core Cases and Operators Involved The ECJ ruling is partially tied to disputes involving Malta-based companies such as Tipico and Lottoland, which operated in Germany (and in some cases Austria) during the late 2010s and early 2020s without valid local licenses at the time. A number of cases involve customers seeking compensation for losses incurred between 2013 and 2021. In Tipico’s case, the operator later obtained a German license after Germany re-regulated its gambling market in 2021, but had operated without one prior to that. Lottoland is also facing claims linked to its earlier activity before stricter enforcement regimes were fully put in place. While the ruling directly concerns the Lottoland-related proceedings, it is expected to shape other ongoing disputes involving Malta-based operators and cross-border enforcement actions. The ECJ stated that Article 56 TFEU “must be interpreted as not precluding national legislation which imposes a prohibition on the organization of online casino games, in particular slot machines, and of forms of betting such as online betting on the results of lottery draws.” Implications for Malta’s Legal Stance The decision undermines Malta’s long-standing argument that EU freedom of services protections should override restrictive gambling regimes in other member states when operators hold an MGA licence. Malta has structured much of its regulatory approach around this interpretation, particularly through its controversial “Bill 55” framework, formally an amendment to its Gambling Act introduced in 2023. Bill 55 grants Maltese courts the authority to refuse enforcement of foreign judgments against Malta-licensed gambling companies when those rulings conflict with Maltese law. The policy was designed to protect the country’s iGaming sector, which accounts for an estimated 10% of Malta’s GDP, from a growing volume of cross-border lawsuits. Malta argues that this safeguard is necessary to prevent a surge in foreign claims and to ensure stability for operators licensed under its jurisdiction. Critics, however, view it as a mechanism that limits the effectiveness of judicial decisions from other EU member states. The ECJ ruling does not fully resolve the wider legal conflict between Malta and other EU jurisdictions, but it strengthens the position of national regulators like Germany in enforcing local gambling laws against offshore-licensed operators. As legal disputes continue across multiple jurisdictions, Malta’s status as a major iGaming hub remains under scrutiny, particularly as other regions including Estonia and the United Arab Emirates seek to attract gambling operators with competing regulatory frameworks. 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.

DigiPlus Obtains South African Gaming Licenses, Signaling a Major Expansion Effort

(AsiaGameHub) -   DigiPlus Interactive Corp., an online gaming operator listed in the Philippines, has secured essential online gaming licenses from the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board in South Africa. This move paves the path for the company to enter what it deems to be the largest online gaming market in Africa. In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange, DigiPlus noted that the gaming industry in the country produced approximately $4.9 billion in revenue during 2025. This authorization comes after the company submitted its application in late September and sets the stage for DigiPlus to launch operations within the nation. The regulatory body in the Western Cape awarded DigiPlus three distinct authorizations: a national manufacturer license, a bookmaker license, and a bookmaker premises license. This board supervises gambling operations in the Western Cape province, which centers around Cape Town. DigiPlus highlighted that the Western Cape possesses some of the most advanced digital infrastructure and a well-defined regulatory structure. Consequently, this region is a favored entry point for operators in the country, accounting for roughly 31% of the total online gaming revenue in South Africa’s online gambling sector. Having received the necessary approvals, the company is now poised to enter a high-growth market—South Africa—marking its second international expansion after its move into Brazil. Regarding its current domestic operations in the Philippines, DigiPlus runs multiple platforms, including BingoPlus, the nation’s first locally licensed and government-sanctioned online bingo platform; ArenaPlus, a sports betting service; and GameZone, a casual gaming offering. Furthermore, DigiPlus maintains nationwide casino slot machine and arcade operations, which constitute the foundation of its domestic business model. DigiPlus recorded a fourth-quarter net income of PHP2.5 billion (about $41.9 million), representing a 36% drop from the previous year; revenue for the same quarter reached PHP17.3 billion, a 27% year-on-year decline. Despite these decreases, DigiPlus has announced a dividend of $64 million for the fiscal year concluding December 31, 2025. Alongside its expansion into these new territories, DigiPlus is seeking to acquire convertible notes worth $204.1 million from Hong Kong-listed International Entertainment Corp. Completing this transaction would grant DigiPlus control over the New Coast Hotel Manila, which is currently undergoing redevelopment into an integrated resort. 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.

Dutch Legal Gambling Market Declines as Illegal Sector Expands

(AsiaGameHub) -   According to the Netherlands Gambling Authority's (KSA) spring report, the Dutch regulated gambling sector is experiencing a long-term decline in gross gaming revenue (GGR). Data from the second half of 2025 reveals that while the legal market remained stagnant compared to the first half of the year, the unlicensed segment saw continued expansion. Between July and December 2025, the number of licensed providers rose slightly from 30 to 31. The number of customers using authorized platforms fell to 810,000 from 850,000 in the previous half-year. Conversely, active accounts increased by approximately 100,000, indicating that gamblers are utilizing a wider variety of operators. The KSA attributes this trend to new regulatory measures, such as the deposit limits implemented in October 2024. Total GGR for the latter half of 2025 reached roughly €602 million, representing a minor increase of less than 1% over the first half. However, when accounting for inflation, this suggests a period of stagnation and decline caused by a smaller player base and weakened operator results. Figures from H2 Gambling Capital highlight that the broader European online gambling market expanded by 11% during 2024–2025, supporting the KSA's conclusion that local regulations are hindering growth in the Netherlands. This downward trajectory persists, with Dutch legal online gambling GGR falling from €697 million in Q2 2024 to an overall decrease of about 18% across 2024 and 2025. The KSA points to the regulatory restrictions introduced in October 2024 as a primary driver for this contraction, as previously reported. Simultaneously, the regulator observed an uptick in illegal gambling activity. During H2 2025, a higher number of participants engaged with unlicensed sites. Estimates indicate that between 20,000 and 30,000 individuals used illegal platforms exclusively—an increase from prior periods—while a smaller segment utilized both regulated and unregulated services. Currently, about 91% of gamblers stick solely to licensed operators, a decrease from the 94% recorded in the first half of the year. The financial data is more alarming, showing that only 49% of total betting volume remains within the legal market, down from 56%. The KSA suggests that the significant losses occurring in the black market, where player protections are non-existent, account for the disparity between user participation and revenue metrics. 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.

Entain Confirms Full-Year 2026 Forecast Following Strong First Quarter Driven by UK Online Growth

(AsiaGameHub) -   Entain has restated its guidance for FY2026 following a Q1 trading update that showed consistent growth, bolstered by robust online results in major markets. For the three months ending March 31, 2026, Group net gaming revenue (NGR) increased by 3%, meeting expectations and fueled by an 8% rise in volume. Online NGR saw a 5% increase, with iGaming climbing 9%, which countered a marginal 1% dip in sports betting attributed to weaker margins. The UK and Ireland stood out in the results, achieving a 13% rise in online revenue as Entain captured additional market share. Australia also saw a 13% increase, with both regions surpassing forecasts. Overall, Entain's core markets experienced a 10% year-over-year increase in online volume. Following these results, Entain maintained its guidance for 5%–7% online NGR growth for the year and affirmed it is on schedule to deliver roughly £1.13 billion in EBITDA for FY26. Additionally, the company restated its long-term objective of achieving at least £500 million in annual EBITDA by 2028. Entain CEO Stella David said: We began 2026 with robust momentum that persisted into Q1, marked by significant volume growth across our diversified portfolio. This underscores our continued strategic execution and operational strengthening, while also showcasing the inherent growth within our globally scaled business. Our resilient and strong operation has started the year positively, and we are maintaining this momentum. Through our sharpened focus and optimization efforts, we are more convinced than ever of our ability to deliver sustainable growth and enhance cash generation. Entain is well-placed to succeed as a long-term industry leader, capitalizing on future opportunities, and I have full confidence in what lies ahead. On a regional basis, UK & Ireland NGR grew by 6%, as online revenue gains balanced out slight decreases in retail revenue. International revenue increased by 1%, driven by sustained online expansion, even though sports results in Italy and Brazil were disappointing. Conversely, Central & Eastern Europe saw a 6% decline, largely due to falling retail revenue. In other developments, Entain's joint venture with BetMGM recorded Q1 revenue of $696 million, a 6% rise from the prior year, supported by 9% iGaming growth and 4% growth in online sports. Adjusted EBITDA also turned positive, although the total revenue forecast has been trimmed slightly; nonetheless, EBITDA margins are expected to hold steady. 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.

Former NBA player Damon Jones is expected to plead guilty to gambling charges

(AsiaGameHub) -   Multiple media outlets report that ex-NBA player and coach Damon Jones is set to plead guilty in two prominent US federal cases concerning illegal gambling. Court documents indicate that Mr. Jones, who had initially pleaded not guilty, is scheduled to officially submit a guilty plea during a Brooklyn magistrates' hearing on April 28. Jones is among more than 30 defendants facing charges for fraud and poker game manipulation across various sports gambling indictments. Prosecutors allege that the defendant played a major part in defrauding and manipulating private betting events by exploiting illicitly acquired, non-public details. In this instance, Mr. Jones is accused of supplying bettors with illegal, confidential NBA data concerning specific games. Authorities highlighted a specific match on February 9, 2023, between the Milwaukee Bucks and the Los Angeles Lakers. It is alleged that Mr. Jones informed an associate before the game and advised betting heavily on the Bucks before the public announcement that LeBron James would sit out due to injury. The Lakers ended up losing that game. Further accusations suggest Jones also shared details regarding Anthony Davis's anticipated participation in a different match. Reportedly, a substantial bet was placed on this false information. Authorities claim these information trades are part of a broader scheme to profit from insider knowledge, raising concerns about the integrity of professional basketball and team data security. Organized crime ties to rigged poker games. Beyond the sports betting accusations, Jones faces allegations of participating in an elaborate poker fraud operation. Prosecutors state that Jones served as a "face card," utilizing his fame to lure wealthy players into exclusive, rigged poker games. These fraudulent games were reportedly orchestrated by organized crime groups using advanced rigging techniques. Indictments describe the use of hidden cameras in chip trays and tampered shuffling machines designed to identify specific cards. Unaware that the game was fixed, the invited participants were set up to lose by Jones's associates who coordinated their gameplay. Jones allegedly participated in these events and received compensation for recruiting players. 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.

ACMA Issues Warning to Chasebet for Self-Exclusion Violations, Blocks 19 Illegal Sites

(AsiaGameHub) -   Harris Bookmaking, conducting business as Chasebet, has received a formal warning from the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) regarding failures to comply with gambling self-exclusion requirements. The regulator determined that Chasebet failed to “adequately promote” BetStop, Australia’s National Self-Exclusion Register, within its communications. An investigation uncovered that the operator omitted necessary references to BetStop in three marketing emails and did not give the tool sufficient prominence on its website. According to Australian regulations, licensed operators are required to promote BetStop and incorporate links into all promotional messages and digital platforms. Consequently, the ACMA concluded that Chasebet had violated its licence conditions. However, the regulator observed that the operator acted “promptly” to rectify the situation upon notification, blaming the oversight on a software consolidation error. The ACMA cautioned that any future breaches could result in escalated enforcement measures. In a separate action, the ACMA instructed internet service providers to block 19 illegal gambling and affiliate websites that were found to be in violation of the Interactive Gambling Act 2001. The blocked list includes platforms such as Bass Bet, BetWhale, CasinOK, Cleobetra, Diva Spin, FatPirate, Free Spinz, Gransino, and JackBit, among others. Since the start of its site-blocking initiative in 2019, the ACMA has blocked approximately 1,640 illegal gambling and affiliate websites. Additionally, more than 230 operators have left the Australian market since the enforcement of stricter rules began in 2017. The regulator stated: ACMA is reminding consumers that even if a service appears legitimate, it is unlikely to possess key customer protections. This implies that Australians using illegal gambling services are putting their money at risk. 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.

84% of Polymarket Traders Lose Money

(AsiaGameHub) -   Recent research indicates that the overwhelming majority of Polymarket users are unprofitable. Blockchain analyst Andrey Sergeenkov reports that 84.1% of traders are currently operating at a loss. The study examined approximately 2.5 million wallet addresses by leveraging Polygon blockchain data through Dune Analytics. It discovered that merely 2% of users have ever generated more than $1,000 on the platform, and only 0.033%—about 840 wallets—have earned in excess of $100,000. The research challenges the idea that consumers can secure a steady income via prediction markets. The likelihood of any user consistently making $5,000 per month is less than 1%. Of the top earners—6,600 users with an average monthly profit of $5,000 or higher—only 2.6% stayed active for over a year. Per the report, many users execute trades right before exiting the platform, which leads to a decline in their average profitability over time. A separate 2025 analysis of 124 million trades found that roughly 70% are not profitable. This research came out as Polymarket keeps expanding, as shown by its recent collaboration with Major League Baseball and its standing among the world’s largest prediction market platforms. Token Terminal data reveals that $9.8 billion in trades were conducted on Polymarket over a 30-day span—making it the second most-traded prediction market after Kalshi. Polymarket has also rolled out multiple new features, including some with referral programs to draw in users, and Sergeenkov cautioned about possible losses for average retail traders, partly due to insufficient user education. The broader prediction market industry has seen rapid, explosive growth, with trading volumes rising sharply between 2024 and 2025. This expansion has attracted greater regulatory scrutiny than ever before, particularly in the U.S., where various agencies are exploring how to classify and oversee these markets. Polymarket has also launched a new in-house stablecoin, Polymarket USD, as part of a larger infrastructure update. Although its crowd-sourced forecasting model is frequently lauded for its accuracy, the data underscores a striking gap between market predictions and the results individual traders achieve. 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.

The Gibraltar regulator labels the criticism of Predictstreet’s licence as “sensationalist” and dismisses it

(AsiaGameHub) -   Gibraltar's gambling regulator has responded to increasing criticism regarding the swift licensing of ADI Predictstreet, maintaining that the procedure was correctly managed and comprehensively assessed. Gambling Commissioner Andrew Lyman verified that he endorsed the approval prior to the public announcement of the company's FIFA partnership, with Minister Nigel Feetham providing the final authorization after due diligence. Both officials dismissed the negative reaction, labeling the reporting as "sensationalist." The timing of the licence grant has been a specific focus, given that it was issued just one day before Predictstreet publicized its FIFA collaboration. Although Feetham characterized the decision as a chance to stimulate Gibraltar's economy, detractors have challenged both the rapidity of the process and the histories of people associated with the firm. Scrutiny has been heightened by recent media accounts. The Norwegian publication Josimar referred to Predictstreet's executives as a "cast of controversial characters," noting that licensing in places such as Malta or the Isle of Man often requires several months. The report also mentioned appointments of individuals with prior regulatory or legal connections, voicing unease even in the absence of formal misconduct rulings against them. Lyman upheld the regulator's judgement, emphasizing that the licence was issued after a complete due diligence review and his official advice. He acknowledged the schedule was fast-tracked because of the approaching FIFA World Cup but asserted that this did not equate to compromised standards. “Speed does not mean lack of scrutiny,” he stated, clarifying that the application received “focused scrutiny” from start to finish. He further clarified that the licence was first approved under Gibraltar's 2005 regulatory system before being moved to the modernized 2025 framework. In countering the criticism, Lyman contended that the unfavorable press is motivated by a desire for dramatic headlines over factual depth, reaffirming that regulatory choices need to find a balance between fostering opportunity and maintaining oversight. Gambling Commissioner Andrew Lyman, said: We cannot generate the economy by being overly risk averse and spending months reflecting on business models that are the future. Being too risk averse means business looks elsewhere and doesn’t comeback as the business model grows in another jurisdiction. Minister Feetham supported this position, affirming that while prediction markets are a contentious industry, Gibraltar needs to remain receptive to innovation to stay competitive. 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.

bet365 Halts Credit Card Deposits in U.S. Due to Regulatory Concerns

(AsiaGameHub) -   bet365 has ceased allowing credit card deposits in the U.S., mirroring a broader industry trend as regulators impose stricter consumer protection rules for sports betting. Per the operator, consumers will no longer be permitted to use credit cards to fund their accounts, though alternative payment methods (debit cards and Apple Pay) remain available as long as they are not linked to any credit line. Against the backdrop of growing focus on gambling-related financial risks, bet365’s decision aligns with actions taken by other major industry players—DraftKings and FanDuel—who already have similar restrictions in place. Many gamblers are frustrated by the excessive charges and interest fees credit card companies apply to gambling-related transactions. Across the U.S., numerous states are either considering an outright ban on consumers using credit cards for gambling or taking a wait-and-see approach (“waiting for the dust to settle”). In a February letter to operators, Elizabeth Warren expressed her displeasure with these practices, calling the exorbitant fees from credit card companies on gambling transactions “abusive” and stating that many such transactions are designed to—and ultimately do—take money from American citizens. While bet365’s decision may help strengthen its market position (as many operators target Massachusetts, where credit card deposits are currently illegal), the company was initially barred from re-entering the Massachusetts market following the state’s 2023 legalization of sports wagering. The Massachusetts Gaming Commission has since reopened its licensing process in response to bet365’s request, potentially paving the way for its entry. Commission Chair Jordan Maynard welcomed the renewed interest, stating: That does hearten me, that people still want to enter the legal market in Massachusetts… So I have to say I respect that. Operators like FanDuel have also highlighted the benefits of aligning payment rules across states, noting that consistent policies can reduce friction for users moving between jurisdictions. 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.

SPRIBE Gets Interim Injunction Against Betnacional in Brazil Over Aviator Game Rights

(AsiaGameHub) -   SPRIBE has obtained an interim injunction in Brazil in a legal dispute with Betnacional concerning the rights to its Aviator game, creating an early benchmark for intellectual property protection within the nation's newly regulated iGaming sector. The Court of Justice of Pernambuco (TJPE) issued the order against NSX Brasil S.A., which operates Betnacional, mandating the immediate cessation of using the “AVIATOR” trademark and any comparable visual or audiovisual components associated with SPRIBE’s product. The decision imposes daily penalties for any failure to comply and will stay in effect pending further court rulings or a final judgment. The court cited SPRIBE’s trademark registration with Brazil's INPI as the foundation for its exclusive rights. The dispute between Betnacional and SPRIBE began when Betnacional launched an Aviator game in 2025 through a new supplier, after having a partnership with SPRIBE since 2022. SPRIBE alleges that this new game is a "close copy" of its original 2018 crash game and constitutes an infringement of its intellectual property. Betnacional, powered by Flutter Entertainment and functioning as a subsidiary of NSX Brasil, is one of the major operators in Brazil's regulated gaming market. The operator continues to report robust performance with crash-style games. This lawsuit is being watched closely across the gaming industry and highlights growing tensions over exclusivity agreements between operators and suppliers, alongside ownership disputes concerning game content. The case demonstrates to both game developers and operators the importance of incorporating strong IP protections into supplier contracts and shows that IP enforcement for developers in emerging markets such as Brazil is growing more effective. The injunction awarded to SPRIBE is a provisional measure until further legal proceedings occur, but the final outcome of the case could set a precedent for other similar disputes as Brazil's regulated gaming framework continues to evolve. 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.