Category: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) - Aviator Studio Brazil has maintained its position in Brazil following a decision by the São Paulo Court of Appeals to deny the urgent relief requested by Spribe. While the ruling does not determine the ultimate ownership of the Aviator name, it allows the local company to continue its operations as the broader trademark dispute proceeds. Good to Know A São Paulo appeals panel rejected Spribe's request for an urgent injunction. The court stated the case requires more in-depth analysis, particularly concerning the licensing agreement between Aviator LLC and Aviator Studio Brazil. The conflict has expanded beyond Brazil, with related legal actions already occurring in the UK and Georgia. Brazil Court Keeps The Door Open In Aviator Fight Spribe's attempt to halt Aviator Studio Brazil's activities during the litigation was unsuccessful, as the São Paulo Court of Appeals decided against intervening on an emergency basis. The judges cited insufficient evidence of immediate damage and highlighted ongoing uncertainties regarding the true controller of the rights associated with the Aviator brand. This permits Aviator Studio Brazil to continue its collaborations with partners, such as Foggo Entertainment, while the core legal case moves forward. Licensing has emerged as a central point of contention. The Brazilian court indicated that the licensing pact between Aviator LLC and Aviator Studio Brazil must be scrutinized more thoroughly before a definitive judgment can be made. Essentially, the court prioritized a careful approach over a swift decision. As the case continues, Aviator Studio Brazil has sought to reassure its partners. George Pruidze, chief executive officer of Aviator Studio, commented:“Aviator Studio Brazil continues to operate lawfully under licence, and we remain committed to supporting our partners and defending the AVIATOR brand.” The wider legal situation is complex. In Georgia, courts ruled in favor of Aviator LLC in a significant trademark and copyright case, determining that Spribe had registered the mark in bad faith, although Flutter announced in 2024 it would challenge that verdict. Conversely, in the UK, Spribe secured an interim injunction in 2025 that prevents Aviator LLC from releasing a rival product before the trial. This divergence in international rulings provides context for the Brazilian court's decision to avoid a hasty judgment. For the time being, the Brazilian court has not awarded a definitive victory to either party concerning the brand. Its action has been to allow Aviator Studio Brazil to remain active in the market while the court examines the conflicting claims related to trademarks, licensing, and previous decisions from other countries. 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) - Sam Bankman-Fried has retreated from one legal challenge following his conviction but continues to pursue the wider litigation concerning his FTX case. A recent court document indicates he has abandoned his current effort to secure a new trial before Judge Lewis Kaplan, while his appeal and petition for a new judge remain active. Good to Know Bankman-Fried has withdrawn his Rule 33 motion for a new trial without prejudice. His direct appeal is still pending, and he continues to seek a different judge for the case. The recent filing was prompted by Judge Kaplan's inquiry into whether Bankman-Fried received assistance in preparing an earlier pro se submission. Sam Bankman Fried Drops One Fight And Keeps Another Sam Bankman-Fried has formally withdrawn his motion for a new trial in the Southern District of New York, though he maintains his broader legal challenge. In the new filing, he stated his intention to temporarily set aside the Rule 33 motion, with the option to reintroduce it after the court decides on his direct appeal and his request to have the case reassigned to another judge. This action followed a demand from Judge Lewis Kaplan for Bankman-Fried to clarify if attorneys assisted him with a prior pro se filing. Prosecutors had expressed skepticism after a March submission requested more time for the new trial effort, particularly because his mother, Barbara Fried, who has no legal standing in the case, also sent a letter to the court on his behalf. Bankman-Fried informed the court that he authored the filing himself, while acknowledging he discussed it with his parents. He subsequently contended that he could not anticipate a fair hearing from Judge Kaplan and moved to withdraw the new trial motion without prejudice, preserving his right to file it again in the future.The dispute over the judge remains ongoing. In February, Bankman-Fried requested a different judge to oversee the new trial motion, alleging that Judge Kaplan demonstrated significant bias. The new letter does not alter that petition or the direct appeal of his conviction and sentence. Bankman-Fried, the former public leader of FTX prior to its downfall, was found guilty on fraud-related charges in 2023 and later sentenced to 25 years in prison. As of Wednesday, he was incarcerated at the Federal Correctional Institution Lompoc I in California. 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 Lumbee Tribe’s status has been transformed by federal recognition, a development that could reshape North Carolina’s gaming landscape and exert new competitive pressure on South Carolina. Key Points After a 137-year effort, the Lumbee achieved full federal recognition last December. The tribe has secured approximately 240 acres of land situated near Interstate 95 in Robeson County. A tribal referendum regarding casino gaming is pending, though a specific date has yet to be determined. Lumbee Casino Proposal Gains Momentum in Eastern North Carolina Although a formal vote has not yet occurred, the Lumbee are moving forward as if gaming is a viable reality. Shortly before Congress passed the defense legislation granting the tribe full federal recognition, Lumbee Holdings acquired a significant tract of land along Interstate 95 in Robeson County. Additional property was purchased on the day of the Senate vote. In total, these acquisitions encompass roughly 240 acres near the South Carolina border, costing approximately $6.8 million. This timing is significant because federal recognition has removed barriers that hindered the tribe for generations. It provides access to Bureau of Indian Affairs resources, as well as federal support for healthcare, housing, and other programs. Furthermore, it grants the tribe the legal authority to explore casino gaming. Last week, the Lumbee Tribal Council passed a resolution to put a constitutional amendment to a vote, asking tribal members whether gaming should be permitted on tribal lands. All 60,000 enrolled members are eligible to participate. While Chairman John Lowery has allowed the membership to lead the process, his stance is clear. He stated:“I’ve seen the economic powerhouse that the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians has become in the western part of the state,” he said, “and the transformative growth of our brothers and sisters, the Catawba.” The location is a primary factor in the project's appeal. Currently, North Carolina’s three casinos are all located in the western region. A Lumbee-operated casino would be the first in the east, positioned along one of the nation’s most heavily traveled corridors. There is currently no major gaming destination along the I-95 route between New Jersey and Florida, representing a significant commercial opportunity. The argument for development extends beyond traffic volume. Counties such as Robeson, Scotland, Hoke, and Cumberland have struggled with economic stagnation, population loss, and the lingering effects of hurricane damage from 2016 and 2018. Lowery has suggested that a casino could generate up to 3,000 permanent jobs. Should the vote succeed and federal trust approval be granted, one of the state’s most economically disadvantaged regions could gain a major employer and tourism attraction. The impact may be felt even more acutely in South Carolina, which currently prohibits both casino gaming and sports betting. This policy has persisted for years due to a conservative legislature, a governor who opposes gambling, and ongoing religious objections. Nevertheless, the consequences of inaction are becoming increasingly apparent.The Catawba Nation was previously forced to look outside South Carolina, establishing their Two Kings Casino Resort in Kings Mountain, North Carolina, after facing local resistance. That facility is already drawing South Carolina residents across the border. A Lumbee casino near Lumberton would create another cross-border attraction, situated even closer to the state line and directly on I-95. While South Carolina lawmakers have debated a bipartisan casino bill centered on an I-95 site in Orangeburg County’s Santee area, the proposal has stalled. Governor Henry McMaster has withheld his support, and opposition remains strong at the Statehouse. Meanwhile, Catawba Chief Brian Harris has contended that any discussions regarding South Carolina casinos should involve the Catawba, citing their history in the state and their existing gaming investments. For the moment, the only vote that matters is that of the Lumbee members. However, the land acquisitions, the urgency of the council’s actions, and the achievement of federal recognition all suggest a clear trajectory. A Lumbee casino is no longer just a hypothetical concept; it is an active regional development with implications that extend far beyond tribal territory. 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) - Somnia has shifted its strategic focus. The initiative is no longer prioritizing metaverse and consumer applications, instead establishing itself as an Agentic Layer 1 blockchain centered on AI agents. Good to Know Somnia now treats AI agents as the core of its blockchain model. Peter Lipka took over as CEO in March 2026 as part of a broader leadership reset. Mainnet launched in September 2025 and has already processed more than 2 billion transactions. Somnia Drops The Old Pitch And Rebuilds Around AI Agents Somnia has overhauled its blockchain approach to center on AI agents, moving its previous metaverse and consumer-centric strategies to a supporting position. In this new configuration, activity driven by agents is the primary focus, with areas like DeFi and NFTs assuming a less central role. This strategic pivot coincides with leadership changes implemented in March 2026. Peter Lipka has assumed the role of CEO, with Harry Lang and Kevin Zia joining him in senior positions. Founder Paul Thomas continues his involvement, though his attention has moved from daily operations to shaping the project's long-term vision. On the product front, Somnia is developing smart contracts capable of fetching real-time data from external APIs and executing AI models within the blockchain's ecosystem. A validator consensus mechanism audits these actions, enabling contracts to react instantly to new information and changes in state.This development is now formalized as a specific product within its architecture. Somnia Agents integrates AI computation directly into the blockchain, allowing smart contracts to interact with APIs and operate AI models, with all outputs being validated by consensus. Paul Thomas stated: “This concept gives us the market of markets,” as he pointed to use cases tied to dynamic sectors such as sports and gaming. Somnia is also leveraging its technical infrastructure to support this new direction. The blockchain utilizes MultiStream Consensus and the IceDB state database to enhance transaction throughput and maintain consistent gas fees. Having launched its mainnet in September 2025 and processed over 2 billion transactions, the project aims to demonstrate both its conceptual strength and operational scale. This new strategy will be a key part of its marketing efforts. Somnia intends to highlight its model at the Prediction Conference 2026 in Las Vegas, showcasing applications in gaming, insurance, and DeFi. The objective is unambiguous: Somnia aims to position itself at the intersection of AI, blockchain, and real-time execution. 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) - WARC has provided new data to support a trend that UK gambling companies have been highlighting for months. Recent research indicates that unlicensed operators are on course to match and then surpass regulated brands in advertising expenditure, with this shift now anticipated by 2028. Key Takeaways WARC projects that unlicensed gambling ad spend will increase from £844.7 million in 2025-2026 to over £1 billion by 2028. Advertising spend by regulated operators is forecast to decrease to £1.022 billion in 2026-2027. Sponsorship may see this crossover occur sooner, with unlicensed brands expected to capture more than half of that market in 2026-2027. Advertising Budgets for the Black Market in UK Gambling Continue to Grow By 2028, it is possible that black market gambling brands will be allocating more to UK advertising than licensed operators. This is the primary conclusion from WARC research released on April 21, the day before a parliamentary debate where MPs are scheduled to discuss gambling advertising and the impact of regulation on the market. The forecast suggests a rapid increase for unlicensed operators. WARC anticipates their advertising expenditure to rise from £844.7 million in 2025-2026 to £934.2 million in 2026-2027, and then exceed £1 billion by 2028. Conversely, licensed operators are expected to see their budgets decline. WARC forecasts a 9.2% decrease in their spending for 2025-2026, followed by a further 2.6% drop to £1.022 billion in 2026-2027. WARC has characterized the market as divided. In their statement, the organization noted:“While overall advertising spend in the UK's gambling sector is projected to reach £1.9 billion this year, WARC research reveals a two-tiered market where nearly all growth is now being driven by unlicensed companies. These operators, largely based abroad, are investing increasingly larger sums to reach UK consumers online through search and social media platforms.” This division is even more apparent in sponsorship. WARC predicts that unlicensed operators will secure over half of the gambling sponsorship expenditure as early as 2026-2027. Total sponsorship investment has grown from £158 million in 2019-2020 to an estimated £260 million in 2026-2027, while the share held by regulated firms peaked in 2021-2022 and has been declining since. The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) utilized the report to express concerns that licensed firms are losing consumer engagement. Chief executive Grainne Hurst described the findings as a critical juncture and stated that the trend should be a cause for concern among lawmakers. She commented: “The crucial issue is whether the advertising originates from regulated operators, who adhere to stringent standards, or from the detrimental, illegal black market, which operates entirely outside of established rules.”Hurst also contended that further restrictions on licensed operators would inadvertently benefit illegal brands: “Targeting licensed operators when their advertising expenditure is already decreasing will not reduce overall advertising; it will merely strengthen the harmful illegal black market, which is aggressively pursuing UK customers. The government must take more decisive and swift action to curb the black market before it is too late.” Licensed firms have been facing mounting pressure from various sources. The Remote Gaming Duty increased from 21% to 40% on April 1. The Remote Betting Duty is also set to rise from 15% to 25% starting in April 2027. In November 2025, the Office for Budget Responsibility estimated that these tax changes would divert approximately £500 million in gambling activity to the black market, while also reducing revenue through demand substitution and price pass-through. Furthermore, the debate surrounding affordability checks remains unresolved, with the BGC reiterating that more stringent checks could drive more consumers towards unregulated sites. 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) - Moca Network has partnered with Biletinial to introduce identity-focused ticketing to one of Turkey’s largest event platforms. This collaboration integrates Web3 tools into a consumer service that already caters to millions of users nationwide. Good to Know Biletinial caters to 6 million active users and supports over 3,000 venues across 63 cities. The AIR Kit will add verified attendance tracking, loyalty rewards, and resale functionality. User-approved credentials will be valid across the broader Moca Network ecosystem. Moca Network Targets Large-Scale Ticketing Solutions Rather than launching with a small pilot program, Moca Network is diving directly into a high-volume ticketing platform. Its new partnership with Biletinial will integrate the AIR Kit into a service that already manages ticketing for more than 3,000 venues across 63 Turkish cities. This gives Biletinial users access to a fresh suite of features linked to digital identity. Once the integration is finalized, users will be able to hold verifiable proof of attendance, unlock more personalized loyalty rewards, and participate in resale markets built on secure and transparent checks. The AIR Kit is at the heart of this rollout. The software package includes universal accounts, wallet capabilities, and identity modules. In practice, this means Biletinial can build its ticketing system around verified user data instead of relying solely on standard account systems.The initial credential set will cover age verification, geographic attributes, event history, spending patterns, entertainment preferences, crypto affinity, and other data types that users choose to share. User consent is a key element here, as Moca Network is promoting a model where individuals retain greater control over how their identity data is used across platforms. Kenneth Shek, project lead at Moca Network, said: “Biletinial is a cornerstone of Turkey’s cultural and entertainment infrastructure. By integrating decentralized identity, on-chain ticketing, and verifiable credentials into a nationwide service of this scale, we are establishing a model for mainstream Web3 adoption where users can keep the value and utility of their digital identities across high-volume consumer services.” Biletinial frames this deal as a product upgrade centered on trust and usability. Ulaş Uslu, chief executive officer at Biletinial, said:“As a platform built on technological innovation, Biletinial remains committed to advancing secure, efficient, and user-centric ticketing solutions. Our collaboration with Moca Network introduces a new paradigm for digital identity in the events sector — one that enhances trust, transparency, and personalization for millions of users. This integration allows us to strengthen operational integrity while offering our audience new forms of value and participation.” The broader vision goes beyond ticketing. After integration, user-approved credentials issued through Biletinial will work across the wider Moca Network ecosystem, opening cross-platform access and additional utility outside the ticketing platform itself. For Moca Network, this deal adds another consumer-scale deployment. The project already serves as identity infrastructure within the Animoca Brands ecosystem and plays a core role in Moca Chain. Biletinial now joins other rollout partners including SK Planet OK Cashbag, Oyunfor, and OneFootball. 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 UK Gambling Commission has revised its perspective on illegal online gambling activity, though the core takeaway remains one of caution. New data covering up to February 2026 reveals inconsistent traffic trends instead of a sustained increase, while more widespread VPN use is reducing the reliability of market measurement. Good to Know The UK dataset spans a 21-month period ending in February 2026. The regulator observed fluctuations in illegal gambling traffic rather than a distinct long-term upward trend. VPN usage increased following the implementation of the Online Safety Act in July 2025, and is now further obscuring the accuracy of the data. Surge in VPN Use Creates Fresh Challenges for UK Illegal Gambling Data Tracking A surge in VPN usage now lies at the heart of the illegal gambling debate in the UK. Per the Gambling Commission, these anonymization tools make it harder to gauge how many consumers are accessing unlicensed gambling sites and the volume of activity taking place outside the regulated market. This finding informed the latest update released on Tuesday. The regulator used estimated minutes spent on illegal gambling sites as a proxy for consumer engagement across the 21-month dataset concluding in February 2026. Results showed sharp swings in activity, with no consistent seasonal pattern and no permanent rise. A spike seen in autumn 2024 did not reappear a year later, leading the regulator to classify the trend as volatile rather than evidence of a structural expansion of the market. As far back as November 2025, the Commission already stated that it could not reliably estimate spending through unlicensed operators. It also noted that three common methods—based on time, channelization, and surveys—were not fit for purpose. Six months later, that uncertainty has not gone away. The overall picture is slightly broader now, but remains far from settled. July 2025 added another layer of complexity. After the Online Safety Act was rolled out, VPN use rose before stabilizing at roughly 40% above pre-July levels, according to data from Ofcom and Similarweb cited by the Commission. A 30% uplift had already been factored in to account for hidden traffic, but newer evidence suggests even more illegal gambling activity may now be concealed behind VPN masking. This forced the regulator to add two VPN usage scenarios to its trend analysis, widening confidence intervals from mid-2025 onward. In other words, it is easier to discuss trend direction than it is to determine market size. Web traffic estimates can hint at shifts in activity, but they do not capture every pathway to illegal gambling, including apps and direct connections. For enforcement teams, this creates a tangible problem. Payment blocking, domain takedowns, and collaboration with banks and ad platforms all depend on knowing where activity is occurring and whether enforcement efforts are working. Tim Livesley, head of the UKGC Data Innovation Hub, said: “We are continuing to work on refining our methodology, and are seeking input from other international regulators and licensed operators to help validate and improve existing data sources, as well as identify additional datasets that can enhance our understanding of the illegal gambling market.” “The Commission continues to prioritize tackling illegal gambling, and we will also share further updates on how we are expanding our disruption and enforcement efforts.” A March panel at the Spring Evidence Conference in Birmingham helped frame this work. Industry representatives, HMRC, and the Dutch gambling regulator gathered there to discuss illegal gambling enforcement and persistent data weaknesses. The UK is not alone in facing this issue, either. Regulators across multiple markets are encountering the same challenge, as privacy tools make detection, tracking, and payment disruption more difficult. 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) - Kalshi detailed three insider trading enforcement cases linked to political event contracts, offering a clearer view of how the firm is implementing its revised compliance regulations. Good to Know Each of the three cases related to political event contracts governed by Rule 5.17(z). Two candidates reached settlements and agreed to pay fines along with five-year suspensions. Mark Moran declined to settle and is now subject to a heftier penalty and a clawback of any profits from the trades. Kalshi Issues Warning to Political Contract Traders On Wednesday, Kalshi made public details of three enforcement actions, all connected to insider trading in political markets. The firm stated that these cases demonstrate the safeguards it recently implemented. Rule 5.17(z) is at the core of each case; it states: “If a Trader is a decision maker, either directly or indirectly, or has any influence, directly or indirectly, no matter the scale and importance of the influence, on the outcome of the Underlying (event) of any Contract, that Trader is prohibited from attempting to enter into any trade, either directly or indirectly, on the market in such Contracts.” One case involved Matt Klein, a Minnesota State Senator and candidate in the state’s Democratic Primary. He bet $50 on his own race, allegedly to learn how prediction markets operate. Klein subsequently settled with Kalshi, agreeing to pay a $539.85 fine and accept a five-year suspension from the platform. The trade had an added layer of irony, as Klein co-sponsors a Minnesota bill aimed at banning prediction markets. The second case focused on Ezekiel Enriquez, a candidate in the Republican Primary for Texas’ 21st Congressional District. Kalshi reported that he too traded on the result of his own election. He reached a settlement and agreed to a $784.20 penalty and a five-year suspension. The most significant case involved Mark Moran, a former contestant on “FBoy Island” and an investment banker who ran for a U.S. Senate seat in Virginia. Kalshi noted that Moran made several trades directly linked to his own campaign. Per the company, he acknowledged knowing the trades violated exchange rules but refused to settle. Kalshi then suspended him from direct or indirect access to the platform for five years, levied a $6,229.30 penalty, and ordered the clawback of any profits from the trades. Kalshi stated that these cases underscore its intention to closely monitor improper activity across its exchange. In the company’s own words, the actions reflect a commitment to “policing all types of unfair or improper trading” on the platform, no matter the size of the trade. 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) - FDJ United began 2026 with restricted growth in gross gaming revenue and lower revenue, as increased gambling taxes continued to weigh on online betting and gaming in the UK and Netherlands. Good to Know Group GGR increased 1% to €2.175bn, while revenue decreased 3% to €895m. Online betting and gaming revenue fell 8% to €213m. FDJ United now anticipates only minimal GGR growth in 2026 and a slight revenue decline. Tax Pressure Continues to Burden FDJ United The most significant headwind originated from the UK and Netherlands, where rising taxes continued to impair results. Revenue for the Kindred-led online betting and gaming division fell 8% to €213m, while GGR declined 1% to €342m. However, excluding these two markets reveals a stronger performance. The unit's GGR increased 6%, while revenue decreased by just 1%. In the UK, Kindred business revenue plummeted 24.1%. In the Netherlands, revenue decreased by 19.9%. FDJ United noted this as a distinct improvement compared to the 42.1% decline observed throughout the full year 2025. Management is currently attempting to stabilize the business through platform modifications and a leadership overhaul. Pascal Chaffard vacated the CFO position in February to lead the online betting and gaming unit, succeeding former Kindred CEO Nils Andén, who departed to pursue other ventures. On Tuesday, FDJ United announced that Dan Lévy, formerly of Ipsos, will assume the CFO role.The group stated that the new leadership team is entirely dedicated to enhancing performance, with a primary focus on the UK and Netherlands. For the entire enterprise, group GGR inched up 1% year over year to €2.175bn. Conversely, however, revenue dropped 3% to €895m, as gaming taxes reduced the quarter's figures by €24m. FDJ United also revised down its 2026 forecast. The company now projects marginal GGR growth for the year, a small revenue dip, and nearly €90m in additional gaming taxes for the calendar year. The recurring EBITDA margin is now projected to be between 23% and 24%, missing the previous 24.5% target. France delivered a mixed quarter for the group. GGR from the French lottery and retail sports betting remained steady at €1.74bn, while revenue fell 2% to €627m following a €15m tax impact. FDJ United attributed some of this weakness to temporary factors late in the quarter, such as less compelling sports fixtures and a high payout ratio in retail sports betting. Point of sale revenue in France declined 3% to €546m, while online lottery revenue grew 1% to €81m. Nevertheless, FDJ United still foresees annual revenue growth from this segment once these transient effects subside. Chairwoman and CEO Stéphane Pallez said:“In an environment still affected by the impact of tax increases and tighter regulations on gaming, the group is stepping up its efforts in operational efficiency, synergies and financial discipline, with the aim of returning to sustainable, value creating growth from the second half of the year onwards, for the benefit of all its stakeholders.” 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) - Executive orders have been issued in New York and Illinois to prohibit state employees from engaging in insider trading on prediction market platforms. These directives focus on public workers who utilize or share confidential data to trade event-based contracts. Key Details Illinois Governor JB Pritzker enacted his order on Tuesday with immediate effect. New York Governor Kathy Hochul implemented a comparable restriction on Wednesday. California Governor Gavin Newsom established a related policy earlier this March. States Increase Oversight of Prediction Markets Illinois led the way this week. Governor JB Pritzker signed a directive prohibiting any state worker, official, or board member from leveraging nonpublic data obtained through their roles to participate in prediction markets or event-based contracts. This prohibition extends to assisting others in such trades, regardless of whether a profit is realized. Pritzker stated: “Prediction markets have expanded into an unregulated arena where individuals can wager on real-world outcomes, including those they might influence.“This creates opportunities for insider trading and the misuse of private information. While the Trump Administration is plagued by reports of appointees seeking financial gain, Illinois is acting to ensure public servants prioritize the public interest over personal profit.” New York's order followed on Wednesday. Governor Kathy Hochul prohibited state staff from insider trading on these platforms, describing the move as a fundamental ethical necessity to maintain public confidence. Hochul stated: “Using confidential information for financial gain is straightforward corruption. Our measures will guarantee that public officials serve their constituents rather than their own bank accounts.“While Donald Trump and Republicans in Washington ignore the ethical chaos they have fostered, New York is taking the lead to eliminate insider trading.” California previously addressed the issue in March. Governor Gavin Newsom signed a mandate preventing state appointees from using nonpublic details to purchase prediction market contracts or aiding others in profiting from such agreements. 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) - Oklahoma legislators halted another effort to legalize sports betting on Wednesday. A vote in the Senate defeated a proposal to authorize online sports wagering and physical sportsbooks, leaving minimal opportunity for revival before the legislative term concludes in late May. Good to Know The Oklahoma Senate turned down the bill in a 21 to 27 vote. The legislation would have granted gaming tribes sole authority over mobile sportsbooks and the ability to offer retail betting. Governor Kevin Stitt continued his opposition, maintaining a veto threat. Senate Vote Deals Another Blow to Oklahoma Sports Betting A renewed attempt to establish sports betting in Oklahoma failed as the Senate rejected a bill that had previously passed the House in a more limited version last year. The proposal had been dormant for over a year before being modified earlier this month and advanced to a Senate vote. The vote revealed the persistent division that has stalled legalization for years. Certain senators argued that legalized betting would exacerbate gambling addiction. Others opposed the exclusive model for tribes and sought inclusion for the state lottery, horse racing tracks, and businesses outside the gaming industry. Had it passed, the plan would have given Oklahoma's gaming tribes exclusive control over an unlimited number of mobile sportsbook platforms. Close to 100 tribal gaming venues could have also launched retail sportsbooks. The bill's author, Bill Coleman, stated his intention to pursue another vote, although no timeline is fixed.If enacted, the law was scheduled to begin on Nov. 1, permitting online and retail sports betting to launch immediately. Cooperating tribes would have collaborated and shared revenue, differing from models in states like Michigan, Arizona, and Connecticut, which typically feature a single tribe partnering with one commercial operator. FanDuel supported the bill, projecting it could generate $75 million to $100 million in state revenue over five years. In a statement to iGaming.org, a spokesperson commented: “Oklahomans are already placing sports bets on unregulated offshore sites – legalization would move this activity into a secure, regulated environment,” the spokesperson stated. “FanDuel looks forward to potentially collaborating with tribal nations to create a responsible system and urges lawmakers to advance this initiative.” Any eligible external operator could have pursued entry into the market via a partnership with a tribe. This was expected to attract major players like FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars, bet365, Fanatics, and Hard Rock. FanDuel and DraftKings alone represent approximately 75% of the legal sports betting handle in the U.S., with under a dozen operators dominating over 99% of the market. The proposal also featured an uncommon financial structure. Tribes would have paid the state a portion of the total betting handle instead of a tax on gross gaming revenue. After allowable deductions, estimates suggested the effective rate would be close to or lower than the median rate of about 10% applied to gaming revenue in many other regions.Additionally, up to $7 million annually was earmarked for marketing initiatives linked to the NBA's Oklahoma City Thunder. A prior version of the bill had contained provisions for the team to operate a sportsbook, but this was omitted from the final draft. Oklahoma continues to be among the 11 states that have not legalized retail or mobile sportsbooks. Despite this, the state leads in the number of physical casinos per capita and generates over $6 billion in yearly gaming revenue, accounting for roughly 5% of Oklahoma's annual GDP. 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) - Caesars and Westgate have finalized an agreement that will place Caesars in charge of Westgate SuperBook operations prior to the start of the NFL season, provided the deal receives approval from Nevada regulators. Good to Know Caesars is set to manage race and sportsbook operations and provide the betting odds. The branding and atmosphere of the Westgate SuperBook will remain unchanged. Upcoming features will encompass same-game parlays, expanded live betting options, and self-service kiosks. We're excited to announce a new partnership with @CaesarsSports that will bring an enhanced fan experience to the Iconic Westgate SuperBook. The SuperBook will continue operating under its legendary identity, with updates designed to make the in-person and digital experience… pic.twitter.com/Xq9AvHRwDY — SuperBook Nevada (@SuperBookNV) April 21, 2026 Caesars Takes Over Operations at Westgate SuperBook The Westgate SuperBook is transitioning to a new operational model. Caesars Entertainment and Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino announced that Caesars is poised to assume control of the renowned Las Vegas sportsbook ahead of the NFL season, contingent upon the Nevada Gaming Commission's approval. Caesars will oversee the sportsbook technology, race and sportsbook operations, wagering access, and the betting menu. Nevertheless, the Westgate SuperBook will retain its distinct identity and ambiance. The partnership is being presented as a fusion of a classic Las Vegas sportsbook environment with a comprehensive, modern betting offering. Eric Hession, president of Caesars Digital, stated in the release:“The Westgate SuperBook is one of the most recognizable sportsbook destinations in the world, and we are proud to partner with Westgate on the next chapter of its evolution. “By powering the SuperBook with our sportsbook platform, we’re combining a legendary sportsbook environment with a modern betting menu and added convenience that reflects how sports fans want to wager today.” The updated betting options will feature same-game parlays, additional parlay varieties, and an expanded live betting menu covering professional and college sports. Additionally, Caesars intends to install self-service betting kiosks throughout the SuperBook and the broader resort to accommodate guests who prefer not to wait at the counter or utilize a mobile application. Having opened its doors 40 years ago, the SuperBook remains a cornerstone of the Las Vegas sports betting scene. Spanning over 30,000 square feet, the venue boasts 350 seats, a massive 220-foot by 18-foot 4K video wall, a full-service bar, complimentary Wi-Fi, and various other amenities. Westgate also hosts event-specific promotions, such as those linked to Vegas Golden Knights playoff games, as well as contests during the NFL season, NCAA Tournaments, and other significant sporting events. Cami Christensen, President & General Manager of Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, remarked: “Since opening in 1986, our SuperBook has been a defining part of the Las Vegas sports betting landscape.“We are incredibly proud of that legacy and thrilled to partner with Caesars Sportsbook to take it to the next level, combining decades of history with innovation, scale, and an even more dynamic guest experience.” Patrons will have the capability to create accounts and utilize the Caesars Universal Digital Wallet via the kiosks and the Caesars sportsbook application. 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) - Evolution has raised a serious concern regarding decreasing channelisation rates across Europe, noting that the ringfencing measures implemented by the supplier nearly a year ago have negatively impacted their financial performance. Evolution recorded a 5.9% drop in quarter-on-quarter revenue for the first quarter of 2026. Chief Executive Officer Martin Carlesund expressed frustration over regulatory instability and called on policymakers to be more flexible. Although the ringfencing actions introduced a year ago have influenced the company’s European earnings, Carlesund emphasized that "it was the right thing to do. And in the world of perfect regulation, it would not have caused any issues". Carlesund argued that there is an imbalance between player protection and entertainment, noting that gamblers are still finding ways to access unregulated markets. Labeling Europe as Evolution’s "main headache," Carlesund noted that the company is redirecting its focus toward other regulated jurisdictions. Total revenue for the company fell by 1.5% to €513m, a decrease primarily driven by difficulties in the European market. The firm expressed optimism regarding Latin America, describing the region as possessing "great momentum". He commented: "In Brazil, we continue to perform well after regulation, which was about a year ago. We have launched a localised version of Crazy Time that is sure to attract a lot of new players in Brazil. LatAm truly is exciting. We’re in full expansion mode. In addition to Argentina, we continue to expand our presence in Brazil and in Colombia to fully leverage the big market potential." A similar positive sentiment is felt by the firm in North America, where there is enthusiasm about future growth possibilities. This is partly driven by the ongoing attempt to acquire Galaxy Gaming, with a deadline of 17 July set for the deal's finalization. Evolution maintains firm position against Playtech Evolution is holding its position in the continuing legal dispute with Playtech, having formally named the company in its lawsuit earlier this month. Evolution listed Playtech as a defendant, as well as Calcagni & Kanefsky LLP and Black Cube, along with Juda Engelmayer and several others. During Evolution’s Q1 earnings call, Carlesund affirmed that the company is prepared for its legal fight with Playtech, even if the process extends for a few years. "I don’t want the US litigation against a competitor to take focus from the results, but when a competitor sets aside all rules and deliberately tries to hurt us, we must take action to protect our shareholder value. "They have stated that they stand behind the defamatory report, but please remember that they paid enormous amounts of money during four years to not be exposed as the commissioner of that said report. Please also remember that the report was based on a success fee structure, where the report producer was being paid based on how severely they could hurt our shareholder value. "Evolution works hard. We are methodic, we are patient and we are very disciplined. We believe in right and have a strong and good culture based on morale and solid ethics." When questioned about the timeline for the lawsuit, Carlesund replied: "We have had an opponent in this legal debacle that has been ongoing for four years. We have systematically been progressing and winning in court, that’s taken four years. "It will take a very long time and the opponent that we have is also taking a lot of measures to delay everything, which we have seen in the past and we expect that in the future as well. So think about years, probably many years." Reacting to being named in the lawsuit earlier this month, Playtech stated that it intends to "defend itself vigorously" against the allegations made by Evolution. 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) - SOFTSWISS has reported positive early results from its recently launched referral system. The iGaming technology provider stated that its operator clients have successfully onboarded over 6,000 new players within the first month of the system's operation, simultaneously achieving a reduction in acquisition costs exceeding €1 million. Integrated into SOFTSWISS’s casino platform, the system enables players to generate unique referral codes. These codes can be shared with others, and in return, the referrer earns a bonus determined by the operator. Suren Vardanyan, Head of Sales at SOFTSWISS Casino Platform, commented: “For operators, the benefits extend beyond cost reductions. Referrals introduce an effective word-of-mouth marketing channel that complements existing strategies. A player who joins based on a friend’s recommendation already possesses a level of trust in the brand, making them more likely to remain engaged and make deposits.” SOFTSWISS highlighted that operators have the flexibility to define their own reward structures, including bonus amounts for registration and deposits, as well as wagering requirements. In one notable instance, an operator saw referrals account for as much as 6% of their total site traffic. SOFTSWISS prioritizes swift delivery Earlier this week, the company announced that Formula 1 icon Rubens Barrichello will continue in his role as Non-Executive Director for Latin America, building on a partnership that commenced in 2024. At that time, Brazil was on the verge of opening its regulated online gaming market, and SOFTSWISS aimed to leverage the Brazilian's widespread popularity to strengthen its presence across the nation. SOFTSWISS observed that since the inception of their collaboration, its presence in Brazil has grown from a single representative to a dedicated team. Concurrently, total bets and Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) in Brazil have seen increases of 65% and 64%, respectively, between Q1 2025 and Q1 2026. Looking ahead to the next year of their partnership, SOFTSWISS indicated a focus on enhancing the speed of its solution delivery and boosting overall productivity. Ivan Montik, Founder of SOFTSWISS, stated: “As a lifelong racing enthusiast, I understand that in business, much like on the racetrack, success can be determined by milliseconds. Speed and accuracy become even more critical over extended periods. This is precisely the inspiration Rubens brings to our daily operations. This mindset has been instrumental in shaping our industry standing and will continue to propel us forward.” 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) - With the gaming sectors in CEE, the Balkans, and Central Asia undergoing significant legislative shifts, SBC and SMH have unveiled plans for a major expansion of the SBC Regulators Forum 2026. Scheduled for July 15-16 during the SBC Summit Tbilisi, the gathering aims to unite at least double the number of regulatory authorities compared to prior versions, fostering a more robust and interconnected platform for regulatory discourse. Anticipating 2,500 delegates and more than 60 speakers, this year's event is structured to transcend high-level conversations and concentrate on synchronized regional efforts to address the sector's most urgent issues. A Program Designed for Action The 2026 agenda pivots towards operational realities. Major sessions will address the increasing complexity of the black market, going beyond typical compliance discussions to investigate how “Big Tech,” financial entities, and regulators can work together to dismantle illegal digital infrastructure. Participants will also engage in interactive workshops to develop a “National Disruption Playbook,” a strategic plan aimed at identifying and taking down unlawful operations via coordinated multi-agency efforts. In addition to enforcement, the forum aims to bolster market integrity by enhancing data-sharing mechanisms, featuring sessions focused on exchanging intelligence between the private sector and law enforcement to improve fraud prevention. Looking to the future, a specific topic will examine regulators' perspectives on upcoming trends. A Vital Regional Hub Andrew McCarron, Managing Director at SBC, highlighted the significance of this year's broader scope: “We are not merely debating the regulations; we are helping to create the instruments needed to apply them equitably. By increasing regulatory participation twofold, we guarantee that the 2,500 attendees have direct access to the individuals defining the future of the CEE and Central Asian markets.” Lasha Machavariani, Founder of SMH, remarked: “Tbilisi has emerged as the diplomatic heart of the regional gaming sector. This summit offers the crucial ‘local pulse’ that international operators require to steer through the shift from conventional frameworks to the modern, technology-based regulations of the future.” The SBC Regulators Forum continues to serve as a premier venue for stakeholders where policy meets gaming. As the region aligns more closely with European standards, the 2026 event serves as the essential meeting place for those aiming to establish a presence in one of the globe's most vibrant gaming landscapes. Purchase your ticket 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) - TAG Media has unveiled affie.ai, a new solution designed to simplify and enhance affiliate media management within the iGaming industry. The platform is set to be introduced at the upcoming SBC Summit Malta (28–30 April). Marketed as an “AI-engineered decision-making engine,” affie.ai is tailored for iGaming marketing teams to streamline the oversight of media partners and affiliate accounts. The tool is the result of a collaboration between TAG Media and Gamblitude, a Katowice-based engineering firm that focuses on intelligence-driven architecture and data solutions for the iGaming sector. At its core, affie.ai is built upon TAG Media’s extensive operational background in managing affiliate programs. TAG highlights that affiliate management remains a highly complex and often underserved area within operator marketing departments. Decisions are frequently inconsistent, dependent on individual expertise, and hindered by fragmented data and manual reporting tasks. affie.ai is engineered to resolve these inefficiencies. Rather than functioning as a standard tracking dashboard, the platform integrates TAG’s strategic frameworks into an automated, data-driven engine that provides actionable recommendations regarding partner performance, deal structures, program optimization, and commercial risk. The platform’s automation capabilities serve as a primary differentiator, enabling affiliate managers to shift from reactive reporting to proactive, insight-driven decision-making. Elaine Gardiner: affie.ai Elaine Gardiner, Co-Founder of affie.ai, stated: “With 17 years of experience managing affiliate programs for operators such as Cherry Casino, Ninja Casino, and Rizk, I understand what effective decision-making requires and how rarely it is supported by the right technology.” “affie.ai translates the strategic thinking our team utilizes daily into an on-demand, high-speed resource—tailored to your specific program and data, and available whenever an affiliate manager needs it.” In a climate increasingly focused on ROI and cost management, the launch of affie.ai aligns with current industry trends. As operators face mounting pressure to improve marketing efficiency—compounded by rising taxes and shrinking margins—tools that streamline workflows, lower overhead, and optimize performance are becoming essential to modern marketing operations. Gamblitude provides the technical foundation for affie.ai, utilizing its cloud-native data infrastructure to drive analytical capabilities. Gamblitude was founded by former STS executives Wojtek Sznapka and Piotr Cerlak, who possess significant expertise in developing scalable data systems for betting and gaming enterprises. Wojtek Sznapka: Gamblitude Wojtek Sznapka, Co-Founder of Gamblitude, added: “Operators already possess vast amounts of data, but the challenge has always been converting that information into consistent, actionable decisions. With affie.ai, we have created a system that goes beyond performance analysis; it interprets data within the context of real-world commercial frameworks. This is about providing teams with the clarity and speed needed to act on their data.” The joint offering aims to provide measurable benefits for operators, including reduced management overhead, faster onboarding for affiliate staff, and the preservation of institutional knowledge regardless of personnel changes. affie.ai will make its official debut at the SBC Summit Malta (28–30 April), where TAG Media and Gamblitude will demonstrate the platform to operators ahead of its initial rollout. 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 most recent Q1 operator results highlight a structural shift in the UK market, which is growing more imbalanced amid regulatory reforms. This comes as FDJ United’s otherwise solid performance period was hampered by challenges in the Netherlands and the UK. The operator has now joined the chorus of voices urging UK authorities to take stronger action against the expansion of the black market and foster a competitive environment for all operators. Speaking to investors following the release of the group’s Q1 financial results, Pascal Chaffard, Head of FDJ’s Online Betting and Gaming Business Unit, stressed that any tax hikes or regulatory adjustments must be paired with an assurance of a ‘level playing field’ for all operators. He said: “What we fear is the development of offshore offering. We have flagged this clearly to the UK Gambling Commission and government, and they have said that they understand the point and will give more capacity to the UKGC to fight [the black market]. “But we are not completely sure that it’s fully done, and it is something that we will continue to work on. We cannot have more stringent regulation and tax levels and not have a good fight against illegal actors.” UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced in November 2025 an increase in the Remote Gaming Duty to 40%, which took effect on April 1 of this year. Additionally, the general betting duty for remote betting will rise to 25% on April 1, 2027. Simultaneously, the government allocated £26 million to the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) to combat black market growth. Yet industry stakeholders have cautioned that this sum is a ‘drop in the ocean’ considering the financial resources of the groups running illegal operators. Despite this, Chaffard emphasized that targeting the online black market is feasible, and this point has been ‘explained in detail’ to both the UKGC and the UK government. “At the end of the day, it’s okay to have more taxes, it’s okay to have more objectives for protecting players, but it’s not okay to have level playing that is the same for everybody,” he added. Chaffard acknowledged that the UK market ‘remains challenging’ for FDJ, which operates Unibet and 32Red following its acquisition of Kindred in 2024. Specifically, he told investors that FDJ ‘underestimated how hard it would be to fine-tune compliance regulations’, though no specific details were shared about which rules the company is struggling with most. Even so, and despite a more than 20% year-over-year drop in UK revenue during Q1, the UK market is still profitable for FDJ. Chaffard expressed optimism that the company can capitalize on ‘smaller and weaker’ operators that might be pushed out as the market consolidates amid tax increases. “The main problem that we have is not the number of active players, it’s the drop in the average revenue per user,” said Chaffard, as he quelled concerns that FDJ would withdraw from the market. Unibet and 32Red are both robust mid-tier operators; however, the concerns felt by operators of this size regarding the UK market aren’t consistently shared by larger players. Flutter and Entain have both adopted an energetic stance toward the new UK market environment, even hinting at further investment in the market. This trend should worry policymakers, as the market as a whole faces growing consolidation risks. A reduction in the number of operators creates a significant gap that the black market can exploit. The UK market’s downturn and the challenges operators face aren’t unexpected; they were widely foreseen amid market pressures and further accelerated by Labour’s tax hikes. Late last year, the independent gambling industry think tank BetterGambling released a report forecasting that over 800 casinos will be forced to exit the market by 2027. The report warned that as regulatory frameworks tighten, the market will no longer be economically viable for operators not in the top tier, as referenced by Chaffard. Reviewer at BetterGambling, Diana Tunsu, warned: “The economics are straightforward. Operators with GGY below £3 million per year are faced with a stark choice: spend significantly on compliance or consider strategic options including withdrawing from the market.” At the time, policymakers—seemingly focused on raising taxes to exorbitant levels—could easily dismiss the study, but market developments since then, even in this early phase, indicate we’re heading toward a less competitive landscape. European tax reforms begin to take their toll FDJ also highlighted the ongoing impact of tax changes across key European jurisdictions, including France, the Netherlands and Romania. Across its land-based, lottery and online betting and gaming divisions, FDJ expects an approximate €90 million impact in 2026. In July 2025, French authorities implemented minor tax increases across lottery, sports betting and online poker. Meanwhile, the Netherlands and Romania have also raised taxes on online gaming over the past year. Regarding the Netherlands specifically, Chaffard said the situation is beginning to ‘stabilise’, and the company is taking actions to drive ‘some growth’ in its operations there. However, he noted a Dutch regulator’s report stating that overall market revenue shrank by more than 20% in 2025, underscoring the difficulty of returning to growth in the jurisdiction. FDJ has laid out plans to turn around its performance in the UK and Netherlands through targeted task forces, which Chaffard explained involve ensuring the group’s different departments don’t work in silos and collaborate effectively. Meanwhile, FDJ is also seeking to shift to an ROI-led marketing and promotional strategy, while streamlining the organisation. Overall, FDJ United reported a modest growth in gross gaming revenue to €2.18bn. However, the aforementioned tax changes resulted in a 3% year-on-year decrease in revenue to €895m. 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) - SOFTSWISS has announced that former Formula 1 star Rubens Barrichello will remain in his role as the company's Non-Executive Director for Latin America. The collaboration between the iGaming technology supplier and the Brazilian racing icon is entering its third year, with the company aiming to leverage Barrichello's focus on speed to accelerate solution delivery and enhance productivity. Ivan Montik, Founder of SOFTSWISS, stated: "As an avid racing enthusiast, I understand that in the business world, similar to a racetrack, milliseconds can determine the outcome. Speed and accuracy become increasingly critical over the long term. This is the very principle that Rubens motivates in our everyday operations. This approach has been instrumental in defining our industry standing and will continue to propel our progress." Barrichello initially partnered with SOFTSWISS in 2024 as a Non-Executive Director for Latin America, a 'strategic move' intended to strengthen the company's footprint in the region, particularly in his home country of Brazil. This development occurred as the nation was finalizing preparations for the launch of its regulated online betting and gaming market, which commenced on January 1, 2025. SOFTSWISS highlighted that since the partnership began, its Brazilian operations have expanded from a single representative to a full, dedicated team. Concurrently, total bets and Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) in Brazil increased by 65% and 64%, respectively, when comparing the first quarter of 2025 to the first quarter of 2026. "I am delighted with the results of our collaboration. As we begin our third year, our goal is to further develop the foundation we have established. I am excited to assist the team in connecting with partners via racing-themed events – it's a method to share a personal passion while forging genuine relationships," added Barrichello, whose 18-year Formula 1 career included driving for famed teams like Ferrari, Brawn, and Williams. In addition to reinforcing its strategic direction, SOFTSWISS has also recently introduced a series of enhancements to its product portfolio. In early April, SOFTSWISS released Motion, a 'no-code workflow automation tool' created to minimize dependency on technical resources. The company has also integrated two new tournament functionalities into its Game Aggregator – Tournaments Report and Instant Tournaments. 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 High Court case between Sky Betting and Gaming (SBG) and a self-proclaimed problem gambler, who alleges receiving marketing materials without consent, has taken a new turn. The operator has secured an appeal following a January 2025 High Court ruling by Justice Collins Rice. The ruling determined that consent for the collection of personal data from the problem gambler had not been obtained. SBG is being represented by the law firm Wiggin. The High Court established a new three-part test for obtaining valid consent under UK GDPR and PECR. The court indicated that consent would be considered valid if either of two conditions could be evidenced: the individual subjectively intended to give their consent, or their decision regarding consent was autonomous. Based on the operator’s cookie placement and data collection practices, direct marketing communications were sent to RTM. RTM subsequently gambled and lost £45,000 on SBG’s platform between 2007 and 2019, as disclosed last year. SBG appealed the decision on five grounds, including: The ruling addressed a point not raised by the claimant, specifically that the claimant had not argued their consent was invalid due to their gambling disorder, thus preventing SBG from presenting a defence. The legal approach to what constitutes valid consent was incorrect, as UK GDPR outlines the proper test as specific, informed, unambiguous, and freely given. The conclusion that SBG had not obtained consent was erroneous. A Flutter UK&I spokesperson stated: “We are pleased that the Court of Appeal has ruled in our favour. This is a very important decision not only for Sky Bet but the wider industry. “We take pride in our leading position on customer safety and remain absolutely committed to player protection.” The Information Commissioner’s Office intervened and provided assistance to the court regarding the matter of data collection consent. With the Court of Appeal ruling in favour of SBG, the case will now be sent back to the High Court for further proceedings. Wiggin noted that the Court of Appeal rejected the notion that the ‘test for consent contains any subjective element’, asserting that it is entirely objective and measured against UK GDPR criteria. The law firm further added that the court concluded that what a controller ‘knows or ought reasonably to know about a data subject is not relevant when considering whether consent was freely given’, meaning the test for valid consent is ‘an objective one without any qualification’. Wiggin stated: “The judgment provides certainty for controllers when obtaining consent. Controllers should assess the information they provide to data subjects about processing on the basis of consent and their mechanisms when obtaining consent. “If these, objectively, result in data subjects’ consent being specific, informed, unambiguous and freely given, then controllers can have greater confidence that their processing complies with the UK GDPR and PECR.” Want to hear more stories like this? Check out the new SBC Media YouTube Channel, the new home of all things multimedia at SBC, where our team deep-dives into the biggest stories from 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) - There was widespread speculation about the potential scope of fallout from last week’s Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) ruling targeting Malta and Lottoland. The ramifications are starting to surface, as even across global regulatory regions, the ruling has paved the way for legal preparations to begin. A slew of gambling operators are facing coordinated legal challenges in New Zealand. Legal claims have been submitted against bet365, SkyCity Entertainment and Super Group, with challenges focused on retrospective gambling activities set to be heard at the Auckland High Court. Parallel to the cases overwhelming Malta’s court system, operators that provided offshore or unlicensed online gambling services will face scrutiny if they are found to have actively targeted New Zealand-based customers prior to regulatory overhauls. That said, while the CJEU ruling may have encouraged other global courts to pursue legal action, New Zealand has no established legal precedent for whether its judicial system can enforce penalties or rules on online gambling activities before a legislative resolution is finalized. Last week, gambling operators grew more anxious following a CJEU ruling that declared contracts between players located in Germany and operators unlicensed in Germany as effectively void. This marked a blow to Malta’s regulatory framework, as the ruling confirmed that players could seek repayment of their losses from operators lacking proper local licensing. It also could establish a binding precedent for both operators and players across the European Union. The New Zealand cases will bypass the red tape associated with Europe and its member states, as the operators’ fates will be determined through proceedings at the country’s Supreme Court. Bet365 intends to argue that the cases should be heard in the jurisdiction where it held its operating license, rather than the location where the players reside, as this was the legal framework it adhered to during its operations. Regulatory bodies across numerous jurisdictions will be closely watching the progression of New Zealand’s cases, as they serve as a non-EU testing ground for player repayment claims outside of EU legal frameworks. If claimants win their legal fight against gambling operators in New Zealand, the floodgates could fully open for player repayment cases worldwide. The fallout could have a major impact on how New Zealand finalizes the remaining phases of its online casino regulatory framework, as license applications are set to launch in July 2026. Per an agreement made by Parliament, New Zealand’s upcoming online casino regulatory system will be capped at 15 total licenses, while TAB NZ’s long-term partnership with Entain will create a monopoly on online sports betting. Legal reviews of past gambling activities could ultimately determine which operators are allowed to participate in New Zealand’s online casino framework. That said, there is still a chance that similar cases could spread more widely across Europe, especially in Finland, which has had a monopolized gambling market in the past. Speaking on LinkedIn, iGaming legal expert Antti Koivula warned that “Within the Finnish legal landscape, this ruling means that if an MGA-licensed operator provided gambling services in Finland in violation of the Lotteries Act, for example, customers who lost money to those operators could pursue repayment through Finnish courts.” He forecast that Bill 55 would likely be struck down by the CJEU, a ruling that would further escalate the wave of legal activity surrounding gambling cases. He added: “That said, under a widely accepted interpretation of Finnish law, an online gambling service is considered to be offered within Finland if the operator has illegally targeted Finnish consumers with gambling marketing and actively allowed participation in the service from within the country. Both actions are strictly prohibited. Labeling Finland as a country with extensive bureaucratic red tape, he emphasized that proving an operator illegally targeted Finnish marketing and enabled domestic participation would likely require nothing less than a prohibition order from the National Police Board. This significantly limits how applicable the Lottoland ruling is to Finland, as securing such a prohibition order demands significant time and effort, and only three foreign operators have successfully completed the process thus far.” It is difficult to predict the future of player repayment cases, but while the CJEU’s ruling against Lottoland opened the door for such claims, the upcoming New Zealand cases may be especially critical for global legal trends surrounding gambling, a development that could shape industry discussions 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.