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(AsiaGameHub) -   Hong Kong has formally scrapped its initiative to legalize basketball wagering, pointing to issues surrounding the nascent prediction markets industry. Officials stated that while basketball betting could potentially be introduced in the future, they first want to observe the impact of prediction markets on the region. Hong Kong Gives Up on Basketball Betting for Now While Hong Kong bans private firms from providing sports betting, it has progressively permitted the Hong Kong Jockey Club to take wagers on specific sports. To date, the state-backed monopoly has been authorized to offer betting on horse racing and football. The Jockey Club also runs the local lottery. Basketball's rising popularity led Hong Kong to contemplate bringing basketball bets under regulation, placing them under the Jockey Club's oversight. Supporters maintained the aim was not to promote more gambling, but to channel existing activity away from the illegal market. Even though the proposed legalization involved a 50% tax, authorities dismissed financial profit as the motivation. Despite months of discussion about the historic inclusion of basketball betting and substantial legislative progress toward its launch, officials have confirmed they have shelved these plans, at least temporarily. The Home and Youth Affairs Bureau attributed the government's choice to stop the rollout of basketball betting to the swiftly expanding prediction markets sector. Event Contracts Are Big in China Prediction markets are a trading format where participants purchase and sell shares based on yes-or-no outcomes for events spanning sports and politics. Their consistent expansion has been clouded by debate, owing to their resemblance to sports betting and accusations of a susceptibility to insider trading. Hong Kong has also felt the effects of prediction markets' widening appeal, with the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau naming them as the primary factor for dropping its basketball betting plans. The bureau noted that engagement in prediction markets is escalating uncontrollably in China, compelling it to reconsider its stance on betting and undertake a thorough examination of the event contracts arena. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Allwyn, the current operator of the UK National Lottery, has revealed proposed proposed enhancements to the Lotto game, alongside the introduction of Powerball, a globally renowned jackpot game. Allwyn Announces Lotto Improvements Allwyn stated that the revamped Lotto game will feature a new two-round structure for every Wednesday and Saturday draw. This effectively provides players with two opportunities to win for the price of a single ticket. From a mathematical standpoint, this nearly doubles the likelihood of players securing a prize. The updated odds for winning any reward, including break-even amounts, will improve to 1 in 4.9. Consequently, the game is projected to generate over twice as many Lotto millionaires, with estimates indicating an average of 345 seven-figure winners annually, compared to the previous 140. Subject to regulatory approval, this new format is scheduled to debut on June 10. Powerball Comes to the UK Concurrently, Allwyn verified that the renowned American lottery Powerball will debut in the UK. Announcements suggest that jackpots could soar as high as GBP 1 billion. The UK iteration of Powerball is set to impact not only the lives of players but also many others nationwide, as it is projected to generate nearly a billion pounds for UK Good Causes within its first five years. Tickets for UK Powerball will be priced at GBP 4 per line. Similar to the American game, the UK variant will require players to match five white numbers and the red Powerball to claim the jackpot. However, the UK edition introduces an additional lower-tier prize, granting GBP 8 to players who match just two white numbers. Allwyn’s collaboration with the Multi-State Lottery Association (MUSL) facilitates the introduction of Powerball to the UK market. While Allwyn has not specified the exact release date for UK Powerball, they confirmed it will arrive this summer. Something for Everyone Allwyn’s chief executive officer, Andria Vidler, remarked that the integration of Powerball and the enhancements to Lotto align with the company’s commitment to elevating The National Lottery. Now that our extensive upgrades to digital and retail channels are finalized, we have a fantastic summer ahead, as we are ready to deliver these thrilling new games to our players. Andria Vidler, CEO, Allwyn Vidler further noted that her team aims to provide a diverse portfolio of products, ensuring there is “something for everyone.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Allwyn UK states that upcoming changes to the National Lottery will increase the number of UK millionaires from around 140 per year to approximately 345 annually, effectively more than doubling the figure. This announcement sets the stage for a summer of updates to the National Lottery, with Allwyn confirming both the launch of a redesigned Lotto format and the introduction of a UK-exclusive version of Powerball. Starting June 7, Lotto will adopt a new two-stage draw structure, giving players two chances to win with a single £2 ticket. The change will significantly boost overall winning odds for players — from one-in-9.3 to one-in-4.9 — while retaining the existing prize entry processes. Players can win in one or both rounds, with jackpots starting at £2m and rolling over up to five times before a must-be-won draw. Allwyn believes the enhanced structure will strengthen Lotto’s long-standing reputation as the UK’s “millionaire maker”, with two paths to £1m prizes remaining intact: matching six numbers for the jackpot, or five numbers plus the Bonus Ball for a fixed £1m payout. Complementing the Lotto revamp is the planned rollout of a UK-adapted Powerball game later this summer, marking the first time the global jackpot game will be available outside the US. Priced at £4 per line, UK players will join a shared jackpot pool that starts at around £12m and remains uncapped, with top prizes paid out over 30 years. The introduction of Powerball is expected to generate an additional £1bn for UK Good Causes over its first five years, as Allwyn aims to expand the National Lottery’s appeal through larger jackpots and a broader game portfolio. Supporting the rollout, Allwyn highlighted that the changes follow the successful 2024 transition of the National Lottery to a new operating system developed in partnership with Scientific Games. The upgraded platform has enabled enhanced retail and digital capabilities, forming the backbone for launching new game formats. As part of its retail transformation, Allwyn also began the large-scale deployment of over 30,000 new Wave lottery terminals in August 2025, replacing legacy Altura machines across the UK. Andria Vidler, CEO of Allwyn UK, said: “We are delivering on our promise to bring more games, more entertainment and more innovation to the National Lottery. With extensive upgrades to our digital and retail channels now complete, we have a fantastic summer lined up as we bring these exciting new games to our players. “Lotto has always been the best game to play if you want to become a millionaire. “Our new Lotto gives players two chances of winning £1m-plus for the same £2 they spend today, creating hundreds more millionaires every year. And with its transformative jackpots, we’re certain that our UK-specific version of Powerball will capture the public’s imagination.” The operator added that the dual launch reflects its wider strategy to modernise the Lottery’s offering, increase player engagement and ultimately grow returns to Good Causes, with a long-term ambition to double weekly contributions to £60m by 2034. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   SBC Summit Malta 2026 is rolling out AI-centric workshops aimed at providing gaming industry stakeholders with a concrete, practical grasp of how artificial intelligence is influencing operations throughout the sector. As AI transitions from theoretical potential to real-world use, the gaming industry is growing more focused not on if to adopt AI, but on how to deploy it effectively, ethically, and at scale. The AI workshops at SBC Summit Malta 2026 are crafted to respond to this shift, moving from abstract talks to hands-on practice. Spanning the event’s two-day conference schedule, the workshops are built around active engagement—attendees dive into real-world scenarios instead of just listening to high-level discussions. Every session aims to help participants experiment with ideas, polish their strategies, and gain insight into how AI is already being used in critical parts of gaming operations. Though AI’s roots go back to the 1950s, its prevalence has skyrocketed over the last ten years, touching both popular culture and every sphere of business. This trend peaked with the launch of ChatGPT, which gained 100 million users in only two months—making it the fastest-growing consumer software app in history. Speaking about the choice to expand AI-related content in the conference agenda, SBC’s Senior Conference Producer Natalie Lees said: “The conversation around AI has moved on. The industry is no longer debating whether to adopt it. That question has largely been answered. However, while adoption has accelerated, much of AI’s use across the sector remains relatively basic.” “At SBC Summit Malta 2026, we want to move beyond surface-level applications and help the industry understand how AI can be used more strategically, efficiently, and at scale, through formats that encourage active participation rather than passive listening.” “From AI tools to AI embedded in business workflows: How AI is transforming workflows, decision-making, data, and technology” delves into the most effective methods for adopting and rolling out AI across businesses. Guided by an AI specialist, the workshop features live demonstrations that teach attendees how to use AI to streamline workflows, boost customer engagement, and enable data-driven decision-making at scale. The workshop ‘AI in HR: Empowering Teams, Not Replacing Them’ will examine how HR leaders are successfully integrating AI into their organizations. Experts Rosi Bremec (Independent, Former COO, Game Lounge), JP Xuereb (HR Director, HIT Gaming), Reija Airas (EVP, People, Culture and Communications, Veikkaus), and Christopher Grech Bonett (Founder, R77 Elitetalent) will explore how companies can use AI to enhance team performance while building the trust, communication, and reskilling frameworks needed to help employees adapt to the AI era. With 88% of digital marketers now using AI in their daily tasks, the technology has become an indispensable part of modern marketing. To help stakeholders navigate this evolving landscape, the conference will offer three targeted AI-Marketing workshops. The Future of Casino Search is Vertical AI Manipulation: How Machines Are Rewriting the SERPs Scaling High Volume Content Operations with AI Automation Workshops will also focus on preparing for future regulations and how AI can help professionals stay competitive. “How Affiliate Managers Can Use AI to Stay Ahead of the Competition”will explore ways AI can boost speed and efficiency in outreach, performance analysis, and partner optimization, while “AI in Gaming: Shaping the Industry’s First AI Charter” will examine how stakeholders can contribute to building clear, responsible standards aligned with upcoming EU regulations. SBC Summit Malta 2026 will be held from 28–30 April at the InterContinental Malta, gathering 6,000 industry professionals. The conference agenda will place a strong emphasis on workshops: day one will focus on laying theoretical foundations, while day two is entirely dedicated to hands-on sessions, supported by two workshop rooms running across both days. Get Your Tickets to SBC Summit Malta Reserve your spot at SBC Summit Malta with our VIP Event Pass. Priced at €600, you’ll gain access to everything the event has to offer, including three days of networking, conference sessions, and the exhibition.Interested in an Expo+ Pass? It’s available for €150. If you are an operator or affiliate, you can apply for a free pass! Operators can request a complimentary pass here. Affiliates can apply for their complimentary passes here. 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 new Powerball jackpot cycle has recently commenced, presenting players with another opportunity to win a substantial sum. The game's top prize has remained unclaimed through three drawings and has now surpassed the $50 million threshold. The Jackpot Survived a Third Drawing The Monday Powerball drawing offered little excitement as no major prizes were awarded, despite the presence of the 3x Power Play modifier. In addition to the jackpot going unclaimed, players did not win any Match 5 prizes, meaning there was no seven-figure payout from this drawing. The winning numbers for the April 13 drawing were 38, 43, 59, 63, and 64, along with the red Powerball 15. Matching all of these numbers would have resulted in a $47 million prize for a hypothetical winner. The cash value of the April 13 jackpot was $21.3 million. As previously stated, no one matched the five white balls without the Powerball to claim the game's second-tier prize of $1 million ($2 million with Power Play). Concurrently, five players matched four white balls and the Powerball, each winning $50,000, though none had the Power Play active to increase their winnings to $150,000. The Powerball prize has now grown to $58 million for the upcoming drawing, scheduled for this Wednesday. A potential winner would have the choice between the annuity option for the full amount or a one-time lump-sum payment of $26.4 million. Saturday Drawing Awarded $2.2M to Californian The preceding Powerball drawing also failed to produce a grand prize winner. However, a player from California came close by matching all five white balls but not the Powerball. This resulted in a Match 5 prize of $1 million, which, according to California's pari-mutuel lottery rules, amounts to $2.2 million for the winner. The most recent Powerball jackpot was won just a few drawings prior when a fortunate player in Delaware secured $231 million. That same drawing also saw a Texan win a $2 million Match 5 prize due to having the Power Play feature activated. 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) -   Kentucky’s governor has rejected a bill outlining a series of sports betting regulatory changes, pointing to problematic language that would grant unconstitutional authority to the Kentucky Lottery Corporation and the Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Commission. HB 904 Fails to Cross the Finish Line House Bill 904 was a sports betting proposal that advanced rapidly through the House and Senate, building considerable support. Introduced last month, the measure put forward multiple adjustments to the regulatory structure of the Bluegrass State. The legislation would have increased the legal age for sports betting participation to 21, up from the current 18. Furthermore, it would have banned licensed sportsbooks from offering proposition bets on college athletes from Kentucky institutions, aligning with a wider movement against such wagers in college sports. Other proposed changes forbade licensed sports betting operators from conducting prediction market operations within the state. House Bill 904 also aimed to mandate that the state's horseracing tracks modernize their pari-mutuel wagering systems and implement fixed-odds betting. Consistent with Kentucky's general stance against prediction markets, the bill also prohibited tracks from partnering with event contract operators. The bill additionally proposed modifications to charitable gambling regulations and created a pathway for launching regulated daily fantasy sports. The Bill Was Not Aligned with the Kentucky Constitution Despite earning robust approval from both legislative chambers, HB 904 was vetoed after reaching Gov. Andy Beshear’s desk. In a statement, Beshear linked his veto to a section related to regulatory organization, which would have conferred additional powers upon the Kentucky Lottery Corporation and the Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Commission. This section stipulated that the two agencies could enact “emergency and ordinary administrative regulations without the Governor’s review and signature.” Beshear contended that this provision conflicts with the Kentucky Constitution, which designates the governor as the chief executive of the branch. This role includes the duty to review all emergency filings. Consequently, had it become law, HB 904 would have impeded the Kentucky governor from fulfilling these constitutional responsibilities. 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) -   Entain anticipates a more muted performance from its North America-focused BetMGM joint venture, at a time when the London Stock Exchange-listed group’s share price is experiencing volatile trading. In a Q1 trading update, Entain—along with its JV partner MGM Resorts—projects BetMGM’s net FY2026 revenue to range between $2.9bn-$3.1bn (£2.1bn-£2.2bn). This would signal continued growth compared to the $2.8bn recorded last year. However, Entain noted it expects BetMGM’s adjusted EBITDA to land at the ‘lower end’ of the forecasted $300m-$350m range. This comes despite adjusted EBITDA climbing 11% to $25m (Q1 2025: $22m) in the first three months of the year. By segment, iGaming continued to outperform sportsbook revenue: the former hit $481m, while the latter reached $203m. These figures represent year-over-year growth of 9% (from $443m) and 4% (from $194m), respectively. BetMGM’s total net revenue stood at $696m, a 6% year-over-year increase from Q1 2025’s $657m. The company remains committed to its goal of hitting $500m in adjusted EBITDA by FY2027. Entain emphasized the significance of BetMGM’s iGaming product during the quarter, citing strong player engagement momentum. Meanwhile, the slower growth in sports betting revenue was attributed to player-friendly sports results and ‘increased promotional generosity’. “Although it has been a steady start to the year, BetMGM is delivering on our strategic plan, carrying forward the initiatives that drove our transformation in 2025,” said Adam Greenblatt, Chief Executive Officer of BetMGM. “We are generating sustainable, profitable growth and paying cash to our parent companies. Our iGaming business is growing at scale, and our Online Sports business continues to strengthen despite a challenging market in Q1. “As we look to the rest of the year, we will continue to focus on our areas of strength, particularly in iGaming, multi‑product states, omnichannel in Nevada, and servicing our premium mass sports players. “These give us confidence that we will deliver on our updated 2026 guidance as well as continue on the path to $500m of Adjusted EBITDA in 2027.” Entain’s shares get no relief following BetMGM update Entain’s shares plummeted to a 12-month low immediately after the announcement, dropping from 559.4p to 526.6p between 12:00-12:05pm GMT. The 526.6p price is notable as it matches the lowest level Entain’s shares have traded at since early April 2025. Shares have since partially recovered: at the time of writing (25 minutes later, at 12:30pm), the company’s share price was 544.4p. The London-headquartered, Isle of Man-domiciled operator is at risk of falling out of the LSE’s FTSE 100, currently ranking 98th on the index with a shrinking market cap of £3.48bn. It would need further declines to drop off London’s prestigious public company list in the FTSE Russell’s June quarterly review, but Harbour Energy—an oil and gas firm and FTSE 250 member—now has a higher market cap (£4.47bn) than the Stella David-led company. Other FTSE 250 firms with larger market caps than Entain include Ithaca Energy (£4.25bn), Investec (£4.03bn), Balfour Beatty (£3.96bn) and Aberdeen Group (£3.70bn). Another major concern for Entain’s investors and analysts is the UK tax situation. Remote Gaming Duty (RGD) rose from 21% to 40% earlier this month, and this heavier tax burden is expected to trigger a major restructuring of the British market—key for Entain as operator of the Ladbrokes Coral high-street and online brands. Investors will also closely watch the New York Stock Exchange when trading opens in a few hours to check MGM Resorts International’s share price activity. Its stock has been an outlier in the iGaming space over the past 12 months, gaining market favor and rising over 24% to $36.75. However, it remains to be seen how the market will react to today’s update. 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) -   ADI Predictstreet has secured another major partnership in the sports industry, aligning with the global sports streaming service DAZN. This follows the recent announcement that the Gibraltar-based prediction platform became FIFA's official prediction market partner for the 2026 World Cup. DAZN, headquartered in London, will incorporate ADI Predictstreet into its service to bolster its offering of live and on-demand sports, scores, news, betting, gaming, and FanZone features. This agreement represents another alliance with a sports giant for ADI Predictstreet, coming just weeks after its formation. The platform itself experienced a hesitant launch last week, with all current markets showing $0 in wagers. Notably, a "join the waitlist" prompt suggests the service may still be in a pre-launch or soft launch phase. The display of USD instead of Gibraltar's GIP currency is also curious, as only Gibraltar residents are legally permitted to place bets. These factors may all point to an ongoing testing period before a full launch. ADI Predictstreet markets The company's activities will be closely monitored in the coming months as it scales operations ahead of and during the 2026 World Cup. According to DAZN, this partnership merges sports with prediction. ADI Predictstreet will provide interactive features and unique experiences linked to major sporting events. The company stated that prediction will become an integral "native part of the fan experience," allowing fans to interact with markets and gain probabilistic insights. “DAZN is redefining sports entertainment by making it more immersive, interactive and connected for every fan,” said Shay Segev, Chief Executive Officer of DAZN Group. “Partnering with ADI Predictstreet allows us to embed real‑time prediction directly into the live viewing experience, turning insight and sentiment into a native part of how fans engage with the world’s biggest sporting moments. “With the FIFA World Cup 2026 as a catalyst and our platform as the engine, this partnership is a major step forward in how fans experience sport.” The World Cup will act as a "launchpad," with the partnership covering DAZN's entire portfolio. ADI Predictstreet is planned for subsequent rollout across other major leagues and events to increase engagement further. ADI Predictstreet’s rocky start These significant deals provide their own momentum for the prediction market. Although it just received its first license in Gibraltar last month, partnerships with FIFA and DAZN are likely to provide crucial exposure for its launch. However, its rapid rise has attracted scrutiny. Questions have been raised about FIFA's choice of partner, while investigative reports have highlighted past controversies involving CEO Dimitrios Psarrakis and Principal Council Member Ajay Hans Raj Bhatia, who was photographed with FIFA President Gianni Infantino at the partnership announcement. Journalists have examined Psarrakis' connection to the 'Qatargate' scandal, and Bhatia is reported to have been involved in insider trading, allegedly paying £130,000 to India’s Security & Exchange Board (SEBI) to settle charges. In a statement to the Norwegian outlet Josimar, the company addressed criticism of Psarrakis: “Dimitrios has never been charged with any wrongdoing. Today, he remains a globally recognised blockchain expert and a speaker at top-tier universities, international organisations, as well as professional summits on FinTech, RegTech, Blockchain and the Digital Disruption of Banking and Financial Services around the globe.” Given this series of events, ADI Predictstreet was destined for media attention. After a controversial beginning, the company will now be looking toward a more successful future. Commenting on the deal, Psarrakis said: “This partnership marks a defining moment in how audiences will experience sport. By combining DAZN’s unmatched reach with ADI Predictstreet’s real-time participation layer, we are transforming fans from spectators into active participants. “This is not just an evolution of engagement, it is the creation of a new category where technology, collective intelligence, and global events intersect at 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.

(AsiaGameHub) -   A probe into how easily minors in the Netherlands can access gambling services has resulted in increased collaboration between licensed operators and the country’s regulator, the Kansspelautoriteit (KSA). The regulator was prompted to launch the investigation in 2025 after receiving multiple reports of minors successfully creating accounts with legal online gambling providers. A small set of findings— which the KSA noted do not represent the overall state of the Dutch market— revealed that minors were bypassing strict ID checks during registration by using another person’s bank account, such as that of a parent or a legally aged friend. When the KSA approached online gambling providers to discuss the issue, it received feedback that there was no immediate solution available to address it. However, the regulator has now announced that such a solution “is now available” and will be highlighted during an upcoming technical session with the licensed sector, though the date of this session has not yet been disclosed. Overall, no serious violations were recorded, with the KSA concluding that it is “virtually impossible” for minors to gamble with licensed operators, and that this activity primarily occurs on black market gambling platforms. Michel Groothuizen, Chairman of the KSA, commented: “The KSA is deeply concerned about underage gambling. Fortunately, it turns out this rarely happens with license holders, but we do have clear signs that it still occurs.” “That activity takes place on the illegal market. Illegal providers often have no or low age verification standards and target this young demographic with advertising— for example, via TikTok. “This is extremely harmful, so the KSA is committed to combating illegal supply. We are also placing a stronger focus on educating minors to make them aware of the risks of gambling.” Legal action against offshore operators has been ramping up recently in the Netherlands. Novatech and Fortaprime SRL were the latest to face penalties from the KSA, with fines of €24.9m and €1.8m respectively. It appears the licensed market has had enough of Novatech in particular, as Nederlandse Loterij— the largest legal gambling operator in the domestic market— has initiated its own legal action against the offshore competitor, at a time when channelisation rates are constantly threatened by the growing prominence of illegal gambling. Want to hear more stories like this? Check out the new SBC Media YouTube Channel, the new home of all multimedia content at SBC, where our team deep-dives into the biggest stories across the sports betting, iGaming, affiliate and payments industries. 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 national media organization in Curaçao is now casting doubt on the nation's gambling laws after the Nederlandse Loterij initiated legal action against Qbet, which is owned by Novatech. This development follows the Nederlandse Loterij describing the Curaçao-based and licensed operator as "the largest illegal gambling site" in the Netherlands. It also comes after a series of fines have been issued in the Netherlands and throughout Europe to companies headquartered in Curaçao. Numerous firms holding Curaçao licenses, such as Stake, Santeda International, and the previously mentioned Novatech, have repeatedly appeared in regulatory statements. The last two companies also manage a vast network of subsidiaries that have faced fines or investigation for either having weak security protocols or for operating in jurisdictions where they are not authorized. This situation has started to worry the country's media, which is beginning to voice apprehensions regarding the Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA). An anonymous opinion piece in the Curaçao Chronicle stated: “For years, Curaçao has been known as one of the world’s most accessible licensing hubs for online gambling. That position has brought economic benefits, from licensing fees to international business activity. “But it has also created a system where the line between legitimate operations and questionable practices is often blurred. “The current case in The Hague reflects a shift in how regulators are approaching the problem. Authorities are no longer focusing solely on the visible front end – the gambling websites themselves – but are increasingly targeting the infrastructure behind them. “Trust offices, payment processors, and corporate structures are now part of the legal conversation. That shift matters for Curaçao. “Because whether policymakers on the island like it or not, Curaçao is part of that infrastructure. The presence of locally registered entities in international cases is not incidental. It is structural. And that means the island cannot dismiss these developments as foreign legal disputes with no local relevance.” The debate also highlights wider fears about Curaçao's standing internationally. As regulators worldwide intensify their examination of online gambling, there is a growing recognition that being viewed as having lax supervision could negatively impact the island's entire financial services industry. Concurrently, industry representatives point out that corporate service providers are not enforcement agencies and might have limited insight into their clients' international operations. Fraud specialist Alex Wood, who investigated the unlicensed market and directly experienced the risks these sites pose to consumers, shared this view. He managed to register on certain sites, many of which are owned by Santeda, using identities of fictional characters, racehorse trainers, racehorses, and individuals below the legal gambling age. Nevertheless, he cautioned that legally confronting these operators would be a monumental challenge, as payment service providers and social media platforms also benefit from the expansion of the black market. Wood stated plainly: “When it’s cross-border like that, it’s impossible.” However, calls from the Curaçao media to strengthen gambling regulations could mark a pivotal moment. If domestically licensed operators faced more rigorous rules, the spread of their brands into illegal markets might be reduced. The Curaçao Gaming Authority, despite being a popular jurisdiction for operators, has been relatively lenient in addressing international problems related to its licensees conducting illegal activities. In July 2025, the regulator reached an out-of-court settlement amounting to 360,000 Caribbean Guilder (£148,700) with 12 anonymous online casino operators, following a criminal probe that uncovered extensive shortcomings in verifying player identities. This amounts to a fine of approximately £12,391.67 per operator—a trifling sum relative to the revenues these companies are likely generating. Curaçao Gaming Authority introduces new reforms Reforms unveiled today could signal a move toward more stringent regulations, as the authority rolls out new compliance guidelines as part of a comprehensive restructuring of the island's gambling industry under the National Ordinance for Games of Chance (LOK). The rules, set to take effect starting in October 2026, mandate that licensed operators bolster their terms and conditions and adhere to more rigorous regulatory standards. These changes prioritize transparency and consumer protection, with the goal of improving the jurisdiction's credibility and its heavily criticized reputation. Operators are required to provide clear, easy-to-understand terms, guarantee that users explicitly accept them, and openly disclose their identity verification and anti-money laundering processes. The updated framework also brings in tougher penalties, where non-compliant businesses risk fines, license suspension, or cancellation, indicating a potential island-wide move to a more strictly controlled setting. However, as suggested by the country's own media, these new rules might be insufficient. The article went on: “Laws on paper are not enough. What matters is enforcement, consistency, and the willingness to act when standards are not met. “There is also a reputational dimension that cannot be ignored. In an increasingly interconnected world, perception matters. If Curaçao is seen as a weak link in the global regulatory chain, that perception will have consequences, not only for the gambling sector but for the broader financial services industry. “The island faces a clear choice. It can continue to operate in a reactive mode, responding to international pressure case by case, or it can take a proactive approach and define its own standards for what responsible participation in the global digital economy looks like. “The ongoing case in the Netherlands is not just a legal dispute abroad. It is a mirror. And what Curaçao chooses to see – and to do – will shape its position in the global economy for years to come.” 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 Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey, has debuted the city's inaugural $2-million Dragon Link progressive slot machines from Aristocrat Gaming, marking a new chapter for gaming options in the city. New $2M Dragon Link Game Now Hosted in Atlantic City Casino for First Time Gamers can now experience an enhanced version of the popular title, featuring a $2-million progressive side bet available on the Dragon Link Golden Century and Dragon Link Happy & Prosperous machines. Play can begin for as little as $1, with high-limit options also offered where minimum bets start at $50 and maximum wagers can reach $3,125. The top prize is $2 million, with additional jackpots of $1 million, $200,000, and $100,000 available. “Aristocrat Gaming's Dragon Link slots are consistently some of the most active games we have, and these new $2 million progressive jackpot machines bring another layer of thrill for guests playing at our numerous Dragon Link banks,” commented Hard Rock Hotel & Casino AC president Georgie Goldhoff on the launch. This introduction represents a significant milestone for the brand, as it brings the first-ever $2-million progressive jackpot slots from Aristocrat Gaming's Dragon Link series to Atlantic City. 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) -   Kambi is expanding beyond the sports betting sector through a collaboration with Google, seeking to improve the tech giant's esports offerings. Under this agreement, Kambi will supply Google with various esports data sets, such as schedules, match results, statistics, team and player details, and scores. The covered titles feature major games like League of Legends, Counter-Strike, Dota 2 and Valorant. These data packages come from Abios, Kambi's dedicated esports arm. Werner Becher, Chief Executive Officer of Kambi Group, stated: “Teaming up with Google marks a major milestone for Kambi and Abios, serving as a strong validation of the sophisticated data infrastructure and expertise we've built over the years. “Leveraging Google's worldwide reach, this partnership will enhance how global audiences access and experience esports data.” Notably, the agreement does not mention gambling. This seems to be Kambi's first venture outside its traditional betting and gaming market, where it has operated since starting in 2010. Established in Sweden with its main office in Malta, Kambi originally had Swedish B2C betting firm Kindred as a majority stakeholder until a sale in 2014.  Over the next nine years, Kambi gained greater independence from Kindred, finishing with the full repayment of a multi-million euro loan in 2023. Nevertheless, Kindred and its Unibet and 32red brands—currently under French group FDJ United—continue to be a major client for Kambi. The Google partnership comes after a busy period for Kambi in the sportsbook sector, during which it signed agreements to provide its technology and data to entities such as France's PMU, Swedish peer Comeon Group, and Finnish startup SuomiVeto. For its part, the IT and search behemoth Google notes that it intends to deliver more comprehensive esports features to fans via Google Search and the Google App.  Marvin Brischke, EMEA Sports Partnerships Lead at Google, commented: “Esports is seeing rising global popularity, and we are happy to collaborate with Kambi and Abios to expand the range of esports information we offer our users.” Interested in more similar stories? Visit the new SBC Media YouTube Channel, the central hub for SBC's multimedia content, featuring in-depth analysis of major trends in the sports betting, iGaming, affiliate, and payments sectors. 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 $50 scratch-off ticket purchased in Illinois has led to a significant payout for a fortunate Palos Hills resident. The winner, identified only as John and by his chosen lottery nickname – Music Man – claimed the seven-figure prize from a Millionaire Club Instant Ticket. This is not John's first lottery win. This Time, a Repeat Lottery Winner Becomes a Millionaire While a $50 ticket might seem substantial, the subsequent $1,000,000 payout made it more than worthwhile. “I wasn’t that shocked, but I was excited. I could feel my father’s presence with me when I walked into the store, which felt like a sign,” the winner recounted. “After I scanned the ticket to confirm the win, I immediately shared the news with my sister and mother. They were thrilled,” the winner stated, attributing this and previous wins to his father. He purchased the ticket at a popular Jewel-Osco shop, specifically located at 7329 S Cass Ave in Darien. The retailer will also receive a $10,000 bonus for selling the winning ticket. John has shared that he has been quite lucky playing the lottery, having previously turned a $10 Holiday Bucks ticket into a $50,000 win, indicating his good fortune on two separate occasions. His habit of playing the lottery frequently has also seemingly contributed to his chances. John attributed his previous win to the anniversary of his father’s passing, recounting how on that fateful day, he saw a flock of geese, and his father, having been a hunter, he felt that it was a symbol for him to try his luck at the lottery. John says he was also thinking of his late father when he purchased his most recent $1,000,000 ticket. Lottery superstitions are a known ritual among gamblers, though there is little proof that this is why they win – John simply got lucky. 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 District of Columbia is considering the introduction of online casinos, a move championed by Councilmember Wendel Felder. Last Thursday, Felder introduced a new draft bill, B26-0656, which aims to significantly reform Washington, DC’s iGaming regulations. The proposed legislation seeks to achieve multiple objectives, including modernizing the gaming framework, enhancing consumer protections, and recapturing revenue currently being lost to offshore and unlicensed operators. Building on its experience with mobile sports betting, launched in 2019, Washington, DC is now looking to expand its gambling offerings by introducing online casinos linked to existing land-based establishments, according to Felder. Pushing into Online Casinos: Is This Next for Washington, DC?  Washington, DC has historically been hesitant to legalize iGaming, with the District of Columbia showing resistance to such initiatives in the past. However, Felder's bill is presented as a strategy to stimulate the local economy, broaden the state's tax base, and prevent the outflow of funds from the district. Under Felder’s draft proposal, entities seeking an online casino license would be required to pay a $2 million upfront license fee, with renewals costing $500,000 every five years. The bill establishes the legal online casino gambling age at 21. Licenses would be available to current sports betting operators or new entrants. Suppliers would face lower licensing fees, paying $50,000 initially and $25,000 for renewals. A tax rate of 25% would be applied to adjusted gross revenue up to $500,000 collected by each licensee. Felder’s draft legislation also outlines comprehensive consumer protection measures. These include a mandatory requirement for players to set daily, weekly, and monthly limits on spending and losses, alongside session and time limits, and cooling-off periods. Players would also receive notifications detailing their net spending, winnings, and losses, providing them with real-time insights into their gaming activity. Bringing Online Casinos While Taking Sweepstakes Out Furthermore, Felder’s bill aims to grant the Office of Lottery and Gaming authority over sweepstakes games. The regulator would be empowered to issue cease-and-desist letters to sweepstakes operators, effectively aiming to remove them from Washington, DC. The sweepstakes industry has faced significant opposition nationwide, with many jurisdictions successfully pushing these operators out. 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) -   There is growing pressure to stop the implementation of new gambling affordability checks across the UK, with a leading reform campaigner calling on the government to rethink its strategy due to rising worries about the policy's possible effects. Reform Supporter Challenges Gambling Measures, Calls for Pilot Evaluation Dr James Noyes, previously a proponent of financial checks for online betting, has requested Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy to pause their implementation. According to The Guardian, he stated in a formal letter that these measures ought not to advance until the outcomes of a current pilot program are completely evaluated. Noyes, a senior fellow at the Social Market Foundation, endorsed the concept years ago as a component of wider initiatives to curb gambling harm. However, his backing relied on conditions like minimal user interference and the establishment of robust consumer safeguards, such as an independent ombudsman. He now indicates that these prerequisites might not be satisfied by the existing plan. In 2024, the UK Gambling Commission initiated trials of financial risk assessments, designed to detect at-risk individuals without demanding invasive documentation. Intended to function discreetly, the system aims to prevent unnecessary hurdles for the majority of punters. Nevertheless, definitive results from the trial have not yet been published, and information regarding its development has been sparse. Betting Regulations Ignite Concerns Over Migration to Black Market Various segments of the horse racing industry have raised alarms. Industry figures caution that customers might be deterred from using licensed platforms if compelled to provide sensitive financial information. They argue this could drive punters towards unregulated operators, thereby compromising both player safety and sector income. Noyes shared these concerns, noting that trial reports indicate mixed data and ambiguous results. He also emphasized the risk that the checks could generate avoidable friction for users, running counter to their initial intent. His analysis implies that moving forward without solid proof invites unforeseen repercussions. The matter has attracted heightened scrutiny following campaigns by racing organizations and betting stakeholders urging policymakers to step in. Projections indicate that the sport stands to suffer substantial financial setbacks should participation drop as a result of tighter regulations. The UK Gambling Commission has affirmed that it is still fine-tuning the system, prioritizing a smooth consumer experience. Authorities insist that any future implementation will weigh user ease alongside the wider impact on commercial entities. Amid speculation that a verdict on a nationwide launch is near, the government faces mounting pressure to postpone the process until more definitive evidence is presented. 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.