(AsiaGameHub) - Advances in big tech have transformed how iGaming players locate their preferred platforms – yet the regulated sector must take action to win back player focus from unlicensed operators that currently dominate social media channels. During the most recent Gaming in Europe Webinar, panel members outlined the tactics unlicensed operators use to take shortcuts to connect with players. Timothy Malmros Genach, an SEO specialist, cautioned that unlicensed operators have discovered a fast-track method to secure top positions in Google search results. They identify an aged, expired domain with high authority, then flood it with low-quality, malicious links. “Once that domain gets penalized, it becomes completely useless. You then add a canonical tag pointing to a new domain, and Google temporarily overlooks the penalty for one to two weeks. When that new domain also gets flagged, you just repeat the process over and over again indefinitely. This is the most effective quick ranking tactic I’ve encountered right now, even more powerful than parasite SEO.” Both the UK and Dutch iGaming markets have been heavily impacted by the unethical, aggressive exploitation of expired domains by these operators. He called on Google to intervene to stop this easy shortcut from being used by black market affiliates and operators that specifically target the most at-risk players. Malmros Genach noted that it is impossible for regulators to fully shut down the black market entirely. The only viable approach is to make operations unprofitable for black market operators and affiliates, while making the regulated sector more robust. At the same time, he cautioned that increasingly strict rules are significantly limiting the capacity of licensed operators to compete against unregulated players. Frank op de Woerd, Editor-in-Chief of CasinoNieuws, similarly noted that the competitive landscape is growing ever more difficult for regulated affiliates trying to go up against unregulated platforms. “We are not operating under the same competitive terms; the playing field is fundamentally unbalanced,” op de Woerd cautioned. “In a regulated market such as the Netherlands, legal affiliates like me work within clearly defined limits. We face rules set both by the regulator and our licensed operator partners, and these restrictions are put in place for valid reasons. They are designed to protect consumers, minimize harm, and keep the market accountable, and I fully support these measures. “That said, these rules do create an unfair imbalance, as illegal operators face far fewer limitations. They are not subject to the same constraints, nor are they held to the same standards. This means they have no need to maintain a KVH seal of approval or stay in good standing with any regulatory body. “In reality, it is the exact opposite: they do not care about their reputation at all, because as Timothy explained, they simply jump from one domain to the next. It is an entirely different way of operating, which already makes competing against them extremely hard.” He also highlighted that this disadvantage is made even worse by the fact that illegal affiliates are able to promote offerings that many consumers view as superior products. He went on to note that there is a far more malicious side to this beyond questionable SEO tactics, which he described as ‘hostile behavior and even harassment’, revealing that legitimate affiliates have even been targeted with DDoS attacks. Looking forward, op de Woerd outlined five core strategies to tip the scales back in favor of the regulated market. Visibility and attractiveness The first core priority is making sure the regulated sector has sufficient visibility and appeal to compete effectively – this is particularly critical in heavily regulated markets such as the Netherlands and the UK. While he recognized that these restrictions were introduced for legitimate purposes, they have created significant barriers for the regulated sector to compete successfully. Treating responsible affiliates as key parts of the solution A shift in perception around affiliates is required: they should be seen not only as a commercial arm for operators, but also as a critical channel for promoting responsible gambling practices. Policymakers should leverage their existing reach to educate consumers about the risks associated with illegal iGaming sites. Government and policymakers bolstering the legal affiliate ecosystem He also called on governments and legislators to take additional steps to strengthen the operating environment for legal affiliates. These steps include improving visibility and supporting greater channelization. Op de Woerd also endorsed the initiative launched by some Dutch operators to introduce a verification badge that adds legitimacy and ratings to their services. Targeting illegal operational infrastructure Illegal affiliates make use of an entire support infrastructure, ranging from domain hosting to monetization tools and traffic generation channels. This entire network that illegal operators and affiliates depend on should be the focus of enforcement action. “This is a key pressure point, and we need to do everything we can to make operating as difficult as possible for these bad actors,” op de Woerd stressed. This also applies to social media platforms that have allowed unlicensed affiliates to reach large audiences via live streams and other content. Pushing Google to take action Google must take urgent action to address these issues. “It is a very complex topic, but Google’s search function, while imperfect, still drives the majority of our traffic,” op de Woerd acknowledged. “Our relationship with the platform is complicated. For years, Google has made all the right statements about cracking down on spam, search manipulation and black hat SEO tactics. It has released official guidelines, policies, repeated warnings and other measures. But the inconvenient truth is that many of these exploitative tactics have been in use for more than 15 years.” While holding Google accountable is a challenging task, it is also a critical step in addressing the rapid growth of unlicensed affiliate activity. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Following nearly a year of silence, the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) has released an update regarding its pilot study on financial risk assessments. The announcement arrives as opposition to the proposed checks intensifies, with critics calling for increased transparency and oversight of the pilot program. Originally proposed in the 2023 Gambling White Paper, financial risk assessments were designed as a seamless method to identify potentially harmful gambling patterns. However, detractors worry that the intrusive nature of these checks will push gamblers toward the black market and undermine the regulated industry. In its latest communication—the first since May 2025—the UKGC sought to address the growing backlash, characterizing much of the recent debate as "ill-informed or inaccurate." A statement from the regulator clarified: “Some reports have claimed that players are already being pushed toward illegal operators because of financial risk assessments. This is incorrect, as the assessments are not yet live, and no consumer has been impacted by one, even during the pilot phase. “While operators may currently request documents or perform checks, these are not the financial risk assessments in question. Such actions are typically driven by anti-money-laundering requirements, commercial policies, or existing safer gambling protocols.” The UKGC also countered assertions that it intends to impose spending caps on players, clarifying that specific thresholds are only meant to trigger a check, during which the customer can continue to gamble. Addressing concerns Critics have primarily focused on the potential for privacy concerns to drive consumers toward the unregulated black market, where such oversight does not exist. A YouGov survey, commissioned by the Betting and Gaming Council, revealed that 65% of bettors are unwilling to share private documents, such as bank statements, for gambling checks. In response, the UKGC stressed that operators would not need to request documents following an assessment and that it would provide guidance to help businesses avoid creating "unnecessary friction" for their customers. The regulator also highlighted data from its study suggesting that, on average, frictionless assessments would only be unachievable for 1 out of every 1,000 customers. While acknowledging industry reports that different credit reference agencies can produce varying data for the same individual, the UKGC noted that the pilot has provided valuable insights into these discrepancies. The UKGC stated: “We are encouraged that the pilot has yielded important data regarding differences between credit agencies. This information will help us compare the consistency of current operator processes and determine practical steps should we decide to move forward with implementation.” Keeping players in the regulated market The core of the UKGC’s message emphasized that the assessments are intended to help customers gamble sustainably within the regulated sector. “Support measures are most effective when they help customers maintain sustainable habits rather than driving them to land-based venues, other operators, or the illegal market,” the regulator noted. “While operators have noted that intervening when financial vulnerability is detected can create friction, we must remember that providing support to those in financial distress is the fundamental goal of this policy.” The UKGC pointed out that individuals in the pilot group were two to four times more likely to have a debt management plan and two to five times more likely to have defaulted on a payment in the past year compared to the general public. The results of the pilot will now be reviewed by the Gambling Commission Board to decide on future actions, though no specific timeline for this review was given. “If a decision is made to implement these assessments, we will collaborate closely with the industry and credit agencies on a sensible rollout plan,” the regulator concluded. “We are conscious of the risks associated with over-implementation or a rushed rollout, which could result in unnecessary hurdles for consumers.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - mkodo has appointed David da Silva as its new Managing Director, succeeding Co-Founder Stuart Godfree in a change of leadership. As the Pollard Banknote-owned firm celebrates 25 years in business and continues its growth, da Silva contributes his expertise in product, commercial strategy, and regulated iGaming markets. As mkodo moves into a new era, Godfree was commended for his role in the company's development, steering it from a pioneer in early mobile innovation to an internationally recognised technology provider for operators. Godfree commented: “Achieving 25 years is a significant milestone for mkodo. The company is well-positioned, with established technology, enduring partnerships, and a superb team. “Under David’s guidance, mkodo will maintain its innovative edge while concentrating on reliability, compliance, and user experience in the globe's most heavily regulated markets.” David da Silva, Managing Director at mkodo. Image: mkodo In his new role as Managing Director, da Silva is of the view that iGaming operators who can prove their experience and build trust will be the ones to thrive. He remarked: “Fundamentally, iGaming is an entertainment service—yet it now functions under strict regulatory oversight. The successful operators going forward will be those capable of providing seamless, captivating experiences alongside strong, automated compliance. Achieving this equilibrium will separate the leaders from the rest.” Under its new Managing Director, mkodo plans to grow its core product offerings, such as GeoLocs, to help operators navigate international regulations and provide superior player experiences. da Silva added: “Regulatory landscapes in markets such as Brazil and parts of North America, including the recent developments in Alberta, Canada, are changing rapidly. This presents both potential and challenges. Our mission is to empower operators to expand with assurance—creating enjoyable experiences for players while upholding the most rigorous compliance standards internally.” For more stories like this, visit the new SBC Media YouTube Channel, SBC's central hub for multimedia content, where our experts provide in-depth analysis of the major news from 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) - GR8 Tech is preparing to capitalize on this summer's Fifa World Cup with a series of enhancements. The platform provider announced that it has improved bonuses, tournaments, content delivery, and provider integrations within its casino segment to drive monetization and player retention. Lusine Khudaverdyan, Head of Casino at GR8 Tech, stated: “A World Cup can attract significant new traffic, but that traffic is only valuable if players are given a reason to remain. For casinos, this translates to more adaptable bonuses, captivating tournaments, robust content offerings, and provider features that assist operators in converting interest into repeat engagement.” GR8 Tech elaborated that product-level wagering will now enable operators to direct promotions towards specific casino verticals, such as live casino and instant games, instead of implementing site-wide promotions. Furthermore, operators will have the ability to utilize the same game across multiple tournaments, allowing players to participate in several simultaneously. The company added: “The World Cup will generate a surge in traffic, but long-term value hinges on how effectively operators convert that attention once players arrive. With upgrades across bonuses, tournaments, content coverage, and provider features, GR8 Tech is equipping its casino vertical to help operators transform short-term excitement into sustained revenue.” Maximising World Cup engagement Fifa anticipates that the tournament, which will be hosted across the US, Mexico, and Canada, will reach an audience exceeding 6 billion people, highlighting the growth potential for operators. A recent SBC Webinar examined the industry's challenges leading up to the tournament, including a shift in football consumption patterns, where many ‘Gen Z’ fans are more focused on supporting individual players rather than teams. Consequently, panel experts stressed that operators must be prepared to respond to emerging narratives throughout the tournament, particularly concerning stars like Argentina's Lionel Messi and Norway's Erling Haaland, who will be participating in his first World Cup. Malachy Rooney, Head of Football Strategy & Pricing at Flutter UK and Ireland, explained: “It’s [about] positioning ourselves to anticipate where we believe a narrative might be developing and then actively responding to it to provide customers with what they desire. “This could involve directing them to existing selections available across our sportsbooks or developing unique, one-off niche selections through specialized mechanics.” 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) - Gustavo Petro has suffered a major political blow as Colombia's Humana government has been mandated to refund "emergency taxes" that were found to be unconstitutionally implemented. The latest ruling from the Constitutional Court of Colombia shows that judges have unanimously decided that taxes imposed by the administration, including a 19% VAT, must be returned to those who paid them. This decision comes after the annulment last week of "emergency taxes" authorized by President Petro for 2025, which were struck down because the executive branch failed to satisfy constitutional requirements for emergency powers. It is estimated that the Humana administration faces a COP 25bn (€5.5m–€6m) liability, mostly related to the 19% VAT on alcohol and online gambling purchases during the decree's enforcement. The 19% VAT, which began in March 2025, was widely criticized by the online betting industry as an overreach by Petro to fund healthcare and welfare projects in the 2026 Budget. Petro had hoped to raise between COP 11 trillion and COP 16.3 trillion (€2.5bn–€3.8bn) through these emergency measures. This setback is now considered a turning point for the government, particularly with the presidential election set for 31 May. The duration of the 19% VAT has caused significant upheaval in the online gambling sector. International operators scaled back their investments, with Codere announcing it would halt further capital in Colombia until the regulatory landscape became more stable. Trade organizations Asojuegos and Fecoljuegos criticized the government's actions, noting that DIAN tax collections from gambling fell by nearly 30% after the VAT was introduced. Meanwhile, the regulator Coljuegos reported its first funding gap for public health and education programs funded by gambling revenues. Following the court's decision, the DIAN tax authority must set up a system to refund money collected from late December 2025 to January 2026. However, the actual return of these funds is uncertain, as individuals must prove they personally paid the tax, creating a heavy administrative task. Significantly, the Court made a distinction that limits the total financial damage. Funds gathered through tax incentive programs—totaling roughly COP 1.6 trillion (€350m–€400m)—will not be paid back. These payments involve about 175,000 taxpayers who settled previous debts under special terms, which the Court ruled as "legally consolidated," allowing the state to keep most of the revenue. The Court ruled that the emergency decrees violated constitutional principles of "exceptionality" and "unforeseeability," emphasizing that tax policy must be reviewed and approved by Congress. Consequently, the decrees are now void, limiting the president's ability to bypass the legislative branch. Despite the order to repay, experts believe only a small part of the COP 25bn will be recovered, as Colombia's "requested right" system requires taxpayers to file claims manually rather than receiving automatic payments. For Petro, the ruling is both a fiscal obstacle and a structural setback for his tax plans. Without emergency powers, the government must use traditional legislative paths as Congress continues to discuss new tax frameworks for online gambling and other 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) - Tombola has brought back its “arcade experience” to set its offerings apart from competitors in the UK iGaming sector and unlock new revenue streams. The transition to an “Arcade 2.0 environment” aligns with the company’s 20th anniversary, as the Sunderland-based bingo and casual games operator seeks to build on two decades of growth and innovation that have expanded the appeal of its games among the UK public. Tombola frames the Arcade relaunch as more than a superficial update; instead, it positions this as a strategic move to boost player engagement in the most competitive segment of the UK iGaming market. Marion Ryan, managing director of Tombola, stated that the group is leveraging its long-standing expertise in responsible gaming and customer insights to craft a product tailored to its users. “This isn’t just a product refresh,” Ryan told iGaming Expert. “It’s a strategic entry into a market where standing out matters. We’re bringing 20 years of responsible gaming credentials, trusted brand heritage, and genuine innovation. Our customers deserve games with refreshed slots and instant-win titles designed specifically for them.” Tombola Breaking New Ground in the UK Alongside product innovation, Tombola continues to rely heavily on major media partnerships as a core pillar of its marketing strategy. The operator remains closely aligned with ITV programming, most notably through its long-running sponsorship of I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!, which provides mass-market exposure and direct user acquisition opportunities via integrated app and broadcast campaigns. The brand has also maintained a presence across light entertainment formats, including the revived Deal or No Deal on ITV, where it combines broadcast visibility with exclusive in-app games and second-screen engagement. While no new headline sponsorships for 2026 have been publicly disclosed, Tombola’s approach reflects a continuation of the “broadcast plus product” model—using mainstream TV partnerships to direct audiences to its proprietary games and community-led experiences. This strategy has been reinforced since Tombola’s £405m acquisition by Flutter Entertainment in 2022, a move designed to diversify Flutter’s UK portfolio through Tombola’s soft gaming expertise and in-house content capabilities. As competition intensifies in the UK’s casino-led market, Tombola’s dual focus on exclusive content and mass-reach sponsorships underscores a broader effort to expand beyond bingo while preserving its distinct, player-first positioning. 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) - Aggregation stands as a foundational pillar of the iGaming sector, enabling game developers to distribute their content across broad global markets and giving operators access to a vast library of titles to attract new players. Yet the role of aggregators now extends far beyond simply supplying thousands of games. Operators are seeking additional tools and services to help build a more immersive, unique player experience that lifts the lifetime value of their user base. Infingame is one such aggregator that is rising to meet this demand, delivering extra value to its full portfolio of operator partners and further strengthening its growing positive reputation across the industry. Confident in its ability to deliver on its promises, Infingame positions itself as the ‘number one aggregator in the space’ and is fully committed to retaining that leading position. But what is it about the company’s offering that fuels this high level of confidence? Dmytro Kryvorchuk, the provider’s Chief Operating Officer, notes that sheer content volume will carry little weight in 2026; instead, it is content performance and platform stability that set aggregators apart from their competitors. “Time-to-market is one of the most critical competitive differentiators today, so delays in this area come with tangible financial costs. Integration efficiency also counts for a lot,” Kryvorchuk stated. “A single API is now standard across the industry, but the clarity of its structure, the quality of its documentation and the level of support required throughout the setup process are what define the actual experience for an operator’s technical team. “Content performance is another metric we monitor closely. It is not enough to have a library of over 15,000 games – what matters is how many of those titles actually drive active user engagement.” Are aggregators offering too much content? On the surface, the core purpose of aggregators is to supply thousands of games to operators, but how many of those titles actually get used by end users? It is unrealistic to expect players to sift through thousands of titles to find the exact game they want to play. Instead, they anticipate that the games featured in the lobby will be the ones that align most closely with their preferences. This is the new industry benchmark, Kryvorchuk explained, adding that Infingame measures performance based on how content is actively used, rather than simply whether it is included in the library. “Not every game deserves equal levels of visibility, and operators do not have the time to work this out manually,” he added. “If an aggregator can offer guidance on what titles to promote, what to trial, and what to remove, all based on real performance data, that delivers instant value for partners. “Additionally, in a commoditised market, stability and reliability become a major competitive edge. If a platform is faster, better structured and experiences fewer glitches, operators notice that very quickly. It is also important to highlight the tools that determine how easily operators can manage their content, run promotional campaigns, or integrate their offering with gamification features.” With access to thousands of games, a full suite of supporting services and a strong brand to bring to market, operators are well placed to welcome large volumes of players. However, this can be both a major opportunity and a significant challenge at the same time. A sudden spike in traffic can put excessive strain on underdeveloped technical infrastructure, an outcome operators can ill afford at a time when player retention is such a high priority. Image: Infingame Kryvorchuk explained that Infingame places heavy emphasis on consistent monitoring and robust technical systems to manage these kinds of traffic flows effectively. “We put a lot of focus on provider-side stability,” he noted. “We continuously monitor performance across all our provider partners, and if any element is unstable, we either resolve it immediately or isolate it to prevent it from impacting the rest of the platform. Beyond that, we invest heavily in our operational capabilities. A team that can respond rapidly when issues arise is non-negotiable.” Elevating the user experience All of this technical work is designed to enhance the end user experience. After all, if an online casino cannot load games properly, or titles do not work as soon as a user selects them, players will almost certainly leave the site. But in increasingly competitive markets around the world, stability alone is no longer sufficient. The experience has to be genuinely enjoyable for users. That is why aggregators are no longer just content repositories, but now offer a full range of promotional tools to help keep players on site for longer, in turn lifting customer lifetime value (LTV). Infingame has rolled out a wide selection of promotional tools that its operator partners can deploy across a range of use cases, from casual slot play to live tournaments and ongoing player challenges. “Traditional bonus strategies often deliver fast results: you drive up deposits and lift user activity for a short window, but most of that value is front-loaded. Players sign up, redeem the offer, and a significant share of them churn afterwards,” Kryvorchuk explained. “With our promotional tools, the goal is to build long-term ongoing engagement instead of relying on one-off activations. “Mechanics such as Tournaments and Challenges give players a reason to stay active over an extended period, rather than just responding to a single offer. What is more, with more gamified tools, engagement feels more organic. Players participate because they enjoy the experience.” Delivering measurable results Games, aggregators, promo tools and all related services exist for one core purpose – to boost player engagement, raise customer LTVs and grow revenue. That is why Infingame, as part of its mission to be the number one aggregator in the space, has built out a comprehensive set of reporting features. Offering a unified client view in its reporting dashboard, Infingame has full reporting and analytics capabilities that let operators see which games are performing strongest and which tools are driving the highest levels of player engagement. And in Kryvorchuk’s view, transparency in reporting and proactive delivery of guidance for operators will drive the industry forward and separate market leaders from other players in the space. He concluded: “Aggregation will not stop at reporting – it will actively guide decisions around what content to promote, which games to rotate out, and how to tailor a portfolio for a specific market or player segment. “There will also be deeper integration with engagement tools, which will no longer operate as separate modules, but as part of one unified system where content, promotional campaigns, and player behaviour data are all fully connected.” This article is provided by a third-party. 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(AsiaGameHub) - Kalshi has launched a new battle in the ongoing fight over prediction markets. In Montana, the firm is seeking a federal judge’s order to prevent state authorities from classifying its event contracts as illegal gambling as the broader regulatory control dispute unfolds. Good to Know Montana issued a cease-and-desist order after determining there was probable cause that Kalshi’s operations meet the state’s definition of gambling. Kalshi maintains that the CFTC alone is empowered to regulate its exchange pursuant to the Commodity Exchange Act. Similar disputes are already underway in other states, such as Tennessee, where Kalshi recently secured temporary federal protection against state action. Federal Regulatory Authority Is At The Core Montana claims Kalshi’s contracts constitute illegal gambling. Kalshi argues Montana has no jurisdiction in this matter whatsoever. That sums up the entire case in a nutshell. Following a state probe, the Montana Gambling Control Division issued a cease-and-desist order, stating that participants are risking value on outcomes linked to chance or a gambling operation. Kalshi responded by filing a federal lawsuit against Attorney General Austin Knudsen and other state officials, requesting declaratory and injunctive relief to halt enforcement. The company contends its market is governed by federal derivatives laws and overseen by the national CFTC, rather than state gambling regulations. Kalshi further notes that its contracts are transactions between users, not wagers against the platform itself. Traders purchase "yes" or "no" positions on real-world events and can exit their positions before settlement as prices fluctuate. In the legal filing, the company’s attorneys stated:“Because traders do not take a position against the exchange itself, traders’ ability to hedge risk requires counterparties willing to assume risk in the hope of seeing a return.” The filing indicates Montana initially agreed to pause its actions while related litigation in Nevada proceeded, but the state later sent an additional warning letter and escalated the threat of legal proceedings. Kalshi claims this increased the risk and compelled the company to file the new lawsuit. The Montana dispute is part of a broader trend. Reuters has reported that the Trump administration, via the CFTC, has already filed lawsuits against Arizona, Connecticut, and Illinois over similar state attempts to regulate prediction markets. Additionally, Reuters noted that a federal judge in Tennessee temporarily blocked state action against Kalshi earlier this year. Thus, Montana is not an isolated incident; it is part of a larger conflict between state and federal authorities over sports event contracts and prediction markets. 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 federal judge has concluded the fraud case against poker player George Janssen with a prison sentence. The ruling primarily addresses fraudulent loan activities, while a peculiar kidnapping narrative remains in the background. Key Details George Janssen received a sentence of 36 months in federal prison and will be subject to 3 years of supervised release. He is also ordered to pay $908,235 in restitution. Prosecutors stated that he utilized fabricated documentation and non-existent vehicles to obtain approximately $4 million in fraudulent loans. Fraud Conviction Issued Amidst Lingering Kidnapping Questions George Janssen is set to serve time in federal prison following his guilty plea in a fraud case connected to his car dealership, Bay Auto Brokers. According to court documents and recent reports, the sentence is three years, to be followed by three years of supervised release, along with a restitution payment of $908,235. The government's prosecution focused on loan fraud, not poker. Investigators alleged that Janssen used counterfeit paperwork to secure financing for vehicles that did not exist, defrauding lenders of nearly $4 million. He entered a guilty plea in 2025 after the FBI and federal prosecutors compiled their case. The kidnapping incident is often the first aspect of the story that comes to mind for many. In late 2023, Janssen disappeared for 35 days before reappearing near his home with zip ties on his wrists and facial injuries. He had claimed he was abducted and held in a basement across state lines. However, reporting on the case has sustained skepticism regarding the veracity of his account.Outside of legal proceedings, Janssen had established a notable poker career. He has accumulated over $500,000 in live tournament winnings and possesses four WSOP Circuit rings. His victory in an MSPT title in September 2025, while awaiting sentencing, further added to the unusual circumstances surrounding his case. 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 Philippine gaming industry concluded 2025 with a definitive shift in leadership. Revenue from online and electronic gaming surpassed that of licensed casinos, establishing it as the primary growth driver for the sector. Good to Know Full-year 2025 gross gaming revenue reached PHP396.14 billion, or about US$6.61 billion, up 6.39% from 2024. Electronic and online gaming brought in PHP201.12 billion, up 30.04%, and made up 50.77% of total GGR. Licensed casino revenue fell 9.6% to PHP182.50 billion, while Casino Filipino revenue dropped nearly 21% to PHP12.52 billion. Online Overtakes Casinos In Philippines Gaming Market Data from Pagcor revealed the true source of growth in 2025. Electronic and online gaming yielded PHP201.12 billion, a 30.04% increase from the PHP154.66 billion recorded the previous year. According to Pagcor's classification, this category encompasses e-bingo, e-games, bingo grantees, and onsite and offsite poker. By the end of the year, it had overtaken licensed casinos, representing 50.77% of the industry's total GGR. This transition was significant as land-based performance weakened. Licensed casinos generated PHP182.50 billion, a 9.6% decrease compared to the year before. Revenue from Pagcor-operated Casino Filipino venues declined even more sharply, falling nearly 21% to PHP12.52 billion. The gains from the online segment were sufficient to counteract this decline and maintain growth in the total market GGR. Pagcor Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco stated that this trend illustrates the extent of the market's transformation:“The increase in electronic gaming revenues shows how the industry has evolved. Online gaming is no longer a supplementary segment but has now become the leading driver of overall GGR growth.” This growth occurred despite the implementation of stricter digital controls in the third quarter of 2025. Pagcor indicated that reforms targeting the online sector and more rigorous digital payment rules were enacted to enhance transaction traceability, safeguard players, and bolster confidence in the regulated market. Tengco also attributed the 2025 results to a balance in policy rather than unchecked expansion. He said: “The 2025 GGR performance underscores the importance of regulatory balance as the industry evolves. “Our objective is not simply to grow revenues, but to ensure that growth is sustainable, transparent, and compliant because of a stronger regulatory environment that supports the long-term stability of the gaming industry.” Within the broader Asian market, this combination is notable. The growth of the Philippines' gaming industry now relies more substantially on regulated digital channels, while the traditional casino sector is no longer the primary contributor. 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 Rank Group has announced a further quarter of growth and has maintained its full-year profit forecast. Its physical venues performed robustly, while its digital operations provided additional momentum, with management confirming that existing strategies are expected to lead to improved annual earnings. Good to Know Third-quarter like-for-like net gaming revenue increased by 5% to £205.4 million. The Group anticipates an operating profit of £68 million for FY2025-2026, exceeding the previous year's £63.7 million. Revenue growth was reported across the Grosvenor, Mecca, digital, and Spain divisions. Land Based Growth Keeps Rank On Track The most significant improvement originated from the company's brick-and-mortar locations. Grosvenor Casinos generated £95.0 million in Q3 revenue, a 5% increase, with gaming machines driving the advance by growing 10% following the addition of approximately 850 new units after UK regulatory amendments. The company is also expanding its retail sports betting offering, which is now live in 38 out of 50 venues, with trials underway in Luton, Leicester, and Reading. Group-wide, like-for-like net gaming revenue for the quarter ending March 31 hit £205.4 million. For the first nine months of the fiscal year, revenue was up 6% to £625.2 million. The Group reaffirmed its expectation for a like-for-like operating profit of £68 million for FY2025-2026, which is higher than the £63.7 million achieved in FY2024-2025. Management also restated a medium-term goal of reaching at least £100 million in operating profit. Interim Chief Executive Richard Harris stated:“It was pleasing to see continued revenue growth across all businesses and strong profit conversion in Q3, despite a tough macroeconomic backdrop. The results demonstrate the resilience of the business, the strength of the customer proposition, and the growth initiatives we have in place.” Digital revenue increased by 4% to £60.9 million. The UK digital segment saw only a 2% rise, but this was offset by a 14% surge in Spain. Nonetheless, the digital division continues to face the most pressure due to the increase in the UK Remote Gaming Duty from 21% to 40%. The company estimates the annualised financial impact before mitigation measures is approximately £46 million. In response, management has executed cost-reduction initiatives and renegotiated contracts. This has involved reducing staff numbers, cutting marketing and sponsorship expenditures, and securing new terms with suppliers. Concurrently, Rank has sustained investment in performance marketing and customer incentives, indicating a strategy to safeguard growth while managing expenses. Harris commented:“Having implemented the actions required to mitigate much of the impact of higher RGD in our UK digital business, and with clear plans in place to drive sustainable revenue growth, the group is well placed to deliver the medium-term objective of generating at least £100 million operating profit.” In other areas, Mecca revenue grew 5% year-on-year to £37.8 million. This business is also poised to benefit from the abolition of bingo duty, which is projected to save around £6 million annually and contribute to double-digit operating profit growth. In Spain, Enracha reported revenue of £11.7 million, a 9% increase, bolstered by a 27% jump in gaming machine revenue. The company did highlight one external risk, noting that conflict in the Middle East continues to create uncertainty regarding international travel. Despite this, it anticipates revenue growth will persist into the fourth quarter. External analysts provided a mixed yet generally positive assessment. Regulus Partners noted that Rank must continue to support its land-based portfolio without allowing its online offering to weaken, adding:“This will require investment more than mitigation.” Peel Hunt said: “We could upgrade our forecasts by more, but we remain uncertain about the impact of increased UK remote gaming duty. However, we still see a clear route to over £100m of operating profit as investments continue to pay off.” 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) - GameStop has launched public sales of Power Packs, a new card offering centered on immediate reveals, PSA-certified graded cards, and fast resale possibilities. The product’s design is straightforward, but its legal risks are not. Good to Know Power Packs became available to the public on April 15 and feature Pokémon, football, baseball, and basketball cards. Pricing ranges from $25 up to $2,500. Purchasers can unveil a card, have it shipped, store it in a PSA Vault, or resell it via the platform. GameStop Introduces a Chance-Based Card Product GameStop and PSA have rolled out Power Packs as a digital card product where buyers pay upfront before learning what they’ve received. Pack tiers span from the $25 Starter level to the $2,500 Lunar tier, and GameStop states higher tiers give buyers a shot at more valuable cards—with no guarantees. Card values shown on the site refresh every five minutes. This model is what sets the product apart. After a card is revealed, users can keep the graded slab in a PSA Vault, have it shipped within the U.S., or sell it on the Power Packs website. In short, a buyer can pay, open the pack, see the result, and cash out without ever taking physical possession of the card. GameStop is entering a space already tied to debates about gambling. eBay limits case breaks, box breaks, and pack breaks to pre-approved sellers and says chance-based listings are generally not allowed. eBay also requires buyers in these approved breaks to receive the full pack, box, or slot they purchased. Power Packs aren’t box breaks, but the key concern feels familiar. Buyers pay for an uncertain outcome, hope for a high-value find, and can reinvest proceeds into more purchases. This kind of setup has drawn legal and platform attention across collectibles and digital products for years. Based solely on the product’s mechanics, GameStop is stepping into a category that could invite closer scrutiny. 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) - DraftKings is positioning itself for the Alberta market ahead of the official opening. The company has initiated pre-registration and targets a July 13 debut, subject to authorization from the Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis Commission. Key Highlights DraftKings intends to go live in Alberta on July 13. The pre-registration process has already commenced. Users can register accounts now, though deposit and wagering capabilities will remain disabled for another three months. DraftKings Secures Early Foothold in Alberta Although Alberta's market hasn't officially opened, DraftKings is already securing its spot. The Boston-headquartered sports betting and digital casino provider announced on Thursday its intention to launch in the province on July 13, coinciding with the start of regulated gambling. Currently, the operator is accepting pre-registrations while awaiting licensing and regulatory clearance from the AGLC. Consequently, while Alberta residents can set up accounts, they are unable to fund them or place wagers until the official launch date arrives. This isn't DraftKings' first foray into Canada, as it already has a presence in Ontario—currently the nation's only fully legalized online gaming market. The move into Alberta provides the brand with a strategic and viable route for further growth within the nation.Greg Karamitis, DraftKings' executive vice president and general manager of sports, stated: “We are thrilled to grow DraftKings' Canadian presence and introduce our online sportsbook and casino products to Alberta's residents. With the planned launch timed alongside the North American-hosted World Cup, it is an ideal time for local sports enthusiasts to connect with our platform.” DraftKings is adding its name to a roster that already features theScore Bet, Caesars, BetRivers, and PointsBet, all of which are currently offering pre-registration to Alberta users ahead of the market's opening. Today, @DraftKings shared its plans to debut its online sports wagering and casino services in Alberta, Canada, pending licensing and regulatory clearance. Upon approval, DraftKings Sportsbook and Casino expects to be accessible on the province’s upcoming universal… pic.twitter.com/lvUuYX7MbO— DraftKings News (@DraftKingsNews) April 16, 2026 This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Construction on the North Fork Rancheria's project continues. The tribe states the Madera casino development will proceed despite a recent California court decision, asserting that gaming on the trust land associated with the site is regulated by federal law, not state law. Good to Know The California Supreme Court opted not to hear an appeal of the lower court's decision, allowing that ruling to stand. According to North Fork, federal authorizations granted in 2012 and 2016 continue to validate the project. Work began in 2024, and the tribe maintains a target opening date of 2026 for the casino. Federal Approval Still Sits At The Center The fundamental stance of the North Fork Rancheria remains unchanged by state legal challenges. The tribe reiterates that its authority to operate a gaming facility near Madera is based on federal trust land status and federal permits, a position it reaffirmed following the latest upheld California ruling. In a statement, the tribe said: “The North Fork Rancheria’s right to game on its federal trust land near Madera, CA, is governed exclusively by federal law. Federal approvals of the North Fork project occurred in 2012 and 2016, and the federal courts have since upheld each approval in final, non-appealable decisions.”This conflict between legal jurisdictions has been central to the dispute for years. Opposing parties, such as the Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians and community groups against gaming, contend the development lacks proper state consent after a 2014 statewide ballot measure opposed it. North Fork consistently references the federal process that authorized the site and subsequently placed the land into trust. Building commenced in 2024 on a 100,000-square-foot casino facility near Highway 99. North Fork confirms construction is ongoing, and official project updates indicate the casino is being built with a planned 2026 launch. The tribe also characterized the venture as an economic initiative for its members and the surrounding region. In the same statement, it said: “North Fork will continue to comply with all applicable law as it proceeds with construction of its project to benefit the regional economy and the lives of its more than 3000 tribal citizens.”The project's size is a major reason the controversy persists. The blueprint includes over 2,400 slot machines, 40 gaming tables, and eight restaurants, with the tribe and its backers frequently mentioning the creation of approximately 1,000 jobs. Opponents, however, continue to accuse the tribe of "reservation shopping," as the proposed casino location is over 30 miles from the tribe's 80-acre rancheria in the Madera County mountains, despite federal recognition of historical connections to the Highway 99 area. Past federal court rulings continue to provide North Fork's primary legal support. A federal court dismissed challenges from the project's adversaries in 2016, with U.S. District Judge Beryl Howell stating then: “The law is not on their side.” 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) - Tennessee legislators have advanced HB 1885, further defining a legislative effort targeting online sweepstakes casinos. A unanimous committee decision moved the bill forward for additional scrutiny, maintaining regulatory pressure on the state's unlicensed gambling sites. Key Details HB 1885 received a unanimous endorsement from the House Finance, Ways, and Means Committee. The legislation is scheduled for review by the Calendar and Rules Committee this Thursday. The proposal seeks to categorize sweepstakes casino infractions under the provisions of the Tennessee Consumer Protection Act of 1977. Tennessee Advances Legislation Targeting Sweepstakes Casinos HB 1885 continues to progress in Tennessee following its approval by the House Finance, Ways, and Means Committee. The bill is now slated for consideration by the Calendar and Rules Committee. The legislation was sponsored by Rep. Scott Cepicky and co-sponsored by Rep. Clay Doggett. The primary focus of the bill is to address online sweepstakes casinos that operate as promotional sweepstakes platforms while marketing themselves as legal, free-to-play social gaming sites. Essentially, the bill targets platforms where users wager virtual currency on casino-style games with the ability to exchange winnings for virtual currency or tangible prizes. This distinction is critical, as legislators aim to differentiate these platforms from authorized gaming entities already governed by state law. Rather than impacting regulated operators, HB 1885 specifically targets internet gambling platforms that function outside of existing regulatory frameworks.The bill places a strong emphasis on enforcement. By incorporating violations into the Tennessee Consumer Protection Act of 1977, the legislation grants the Attorney General expanded authority. This includes the power to demand sworn testimony, examine business records, and pursue measures to prevent the destruction of evidence. The bill also introduces stricter penalties. It authorizes civil fines reaching $1,000 per document in instances where records are hidden or falsified. Furthermore, it eliminates a previous six-month statute of limitations, providing officials with an extended timeframe to initiate enforcement actions. 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.