Hollywoodbets Expands South African Reach with Tom Horn Gaming Partnership iGame

Hollywoodbets Expands South African Reach with Tom Horn Gaming Partnership

(AsiaGameHub) - Hollywoodbets has expanded its gaming library in South Africa by entering into a new content agreement with Tom Horn Gaming. Under this partnership, Tom Horn’s suite of games—featuring popular titles such as the 243 Crystal Fruits series, Book of Aladdin, and Majestic Coins—is now accessible to Hollywoodbets customers across the country. Wade Dorkin, Head of Product at Hollywoodbets, stated: “We are excited to bring Tom Horn Gaming’s portfolio to our South African players. “Their games are known for creative design and compelling mechanics, making them an excellent addition to our platform. This deal reflects our ongoing dedication to improving our entertainment offerings with premium content.” For Tom Horn, this agreement strengthens its footprint in South Africa, following its initial market entry via a partnership with Aardvark Technologies in February 2025, and supports the firm’s broader international growth strategy. Ondrej Lapides, CEO of Tom Horn Gaming, remarked: “We are pleased to grow our relationship with Hollywoodbets and introduce our games to the South African market. “Securing full regulatory compliance for this region was a significant undertaking for our team, so it is very satisfying to see our games live with such a prominent and well-regarded operator. Hollywoodbets has established a stellar reputation and a loyal player base, and we are certain our content will be well-received by their users.” Tax debate continues Mirroring trends seen in many other African nations, South Africa has experienced a significant rise in the popularity of online betting and gaming in recent years. In response, South Africa’s National Treasury has proposed an additional 20% tax on gross gambling revenue from online operations, which would be applied in addition to existing provincial tax rates on all gambling activities. With provincial rates currently ranging from 6% to 9%, the total effective tax burden would reach between 26% and 29% if the proposal is enacted. Data from the National Gambling Board indicates that R1.5trn (£66bn) was wagered during the 2024 financial year, with gambling participation rates climbing from 30.6% to 65.7% between 2017 and 2023. While the proposed tax is estimated to generate R10bn (£456.1m) annually, the Ministry of Finance has stressed that the primary objective is to address potential social issues stemming from the growth of online gaming. The public consultation period for the proposal concluded on 27 February, and industry stakeholders are currently waiting for a decision from South African legislators regarding the potential implementation of the new tax. 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.
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AIONOS Highlights Enterprise AI Vision for APAC at GITEX AI ASIA 2026 ACN Newswire

AIONOS Highlights Enterprise AI Vision for APAC at GITEX AI ASIA 2026

SINGAPORE, Apr 10, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - AIONOS, a Singapore-based enterprise AI company backed by InterGlobe Enterprises and Assago Group, is making a strong presence at GITEX AI ASIA 2026, taking place from 9 to 10 April at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore. The company’s participation reflects its increasing investment in the Asia Pacific region and its focus on helping enterprises and public-sector organizations scale production-grade AI across key markets.Positioned as one of Asia’s largest platforms for AI, digital infrastructure, and innovation, GITEX AI ASIA brings together technology providers, governments, and enterprises to discuss the future of AI adoption across the region. At GITEX AI ASIA, AIONOS will showcase how its AI-native approach helps organizations move from pilots and experiments to systems of execution that are governed, measurable, and aligned with business outcomes in areas such as customer experience, operations, and cybersecurity.AIONOS’ Expansion in APACKarunjit Kumar Dhir, Executive Vice President, ASEAN & ANZ at AIONOS, said: “As a company focused on enterprise AI, GITEX AI ASIA is a key platform as we expand our presence across Asia Pacific. Being in Singapore allows us to work much closer with regional CXOs and governments who are ready to move from experiments to enterprise-scale AI programs. The focus is on very real conversations about how AI-led systems can remove friction from operations, unlock new growth, and build more resilient digital ecosystems across ASEAN and ANZ.”Building an AI-First Operating Model for APAC AIONOS’ approach is rooted in applied AI, combining intelligent systems with human-in-the-loop oversight and clear governance from day one. By embedding AI across customer journeys and internal workflows, enterprises can automate routine tasks, reduce operational friction, and enable teams to focus on higher-value work.For organizations in Asia Pacific, this means moving from isolated AI projects to an AI-first operating model built on strong data foundations, standardized architectures, and enterprise-grade governance. AIONOS is working with regional enterprises to design these systems end to end so that AI programs are measurable from day one and capable of scaling across markets and business units.From AI Hype to Production-Grade Enterprise SystemsArjun Nagulapally, Chief Technology Officer of AIONOS, added: “Events like GITEX AI ASIA matter because they separate AI hype from what actually works. Across Asia, enterprises are asking how AI systems and agents can plug into their existing technology stack, operate with human-in-the-loop safeguards, and deliver measurable outcomes in months, not years. At AIONOS, conversations at this event are anchored in that reality: industry-specific AI architectures, strong governance, and production deployments that are already transforming how organizations work, not just running as proofs of concept.”At GITEX AI ASIA, AIONOS will engage with technology and business leaders on key topics such as AI governance, responsible deployment of enterprise AI, and the operating models required to embed AI into day-to-day workflows. The company will also share case study learnings on how enterprises can orchestrate multiple AI systems across customer experience, operations, and decision support while keeping humans firmly in control.About AIONOSAIONOS is a Singapore-based, AI-native technology company that builds and operates enterprise AI, powered by technology and delivered by teams with deep industry context. Every engagement is guided by four principles: outcome-based, domain-specific, human-in-the-loop, and enterprise-governed.As a joint venture between InterGlobe Enterprises and Assago Group, AIONOS brings decades of industry and aviation expertise to enterprise AI, combining deep domain knowledge with modern AI engineering, data and AI services, AI-native customer experience, cybersecurity, and growth and MarTech capabilities. Its solutions leverage machine learning, generative AI, predictive analytics, and intelligent agents to build context-aware systems that automate processes, enhance customer engagement, and support better decision-making at scale.AIONOS’ vision is to equip enterprises with AI solutions that drive operational excellence and superior customer experiences. By aligning technology, governance, and change management, AIONOS helps organizations move beyond experimentation and unlock the next wave of AI-driven transformation.About InterGlobe EnterprisesInterGlobe Enterprises is an Indian conglomerate with businesses across aviation, hospitality, logistics, technology, airline management, advanced pilot training, and aircraft maintenance engineering. Through its various companies, InterGlobe employs tens of thousands of professionals across more than 150 cities worldwide and has built a reputation for delivering quality and value in partnership with global brands. For more information, visit www.interglobe.com. About Assago GroupAssago Group is a diversified conglomerate focused on sustainability-led investments across the energy, real estate, and financial sectors. Its portfolio spans ESG-conscious alternative assets, impact investments, public and private market investments, biofuel and sustainable energy initiatives, as well as the development and management of residential, commercial, and holiday properties. For more information, visit www.assagogroup.com. Media contact:komal@mianext.com Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
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GamCare to narrow the gap between harm and help using OHID funds iGame

GamCare to narrow the gap between harm and help using OHID funds

(AsiaGameHub) - GamCare anticipates that the provisional grant of over £4m from the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) VCSE Gambling Harms Prevention and Resilience Fund will enable the charity to ‘bridge the divide between harm and assistance for thousands’. With this funding, slated for the 2026-2028 period, the charity plans to launch two specific initiatives: a community outreach project and specialized assistance for individuals impacted by the gambling habits of others. Pending final confirmation, both services are scheduled to commence in April 2026. Backed by the prevention component of the statutory gambling operator levy, OHID has recently distributed £25.4m among 33 voluntary, community, and social enterprise groups that offer gambling harm support throughout England. Victoria Corbishley, CEO of GamCare, stated: “Once finalized, this provisional funding will assist us in narrowing the gap between harm and help for thousands of individuals throughout England. “Whether an individual is personally struggling or seeking to assist a family member, they are entitled to receive prompt, empathetic, and expert care.” GamCare’s planned use of OHID funds The community outreach initiative will deploy dedicated professionals across London, the South East, the East Midlands, and Yorkshire and the Humber, with a primary focus on engaging diverse and marginalized populations through collaborations with grassroots and specialist providers. GamCare explained that these outreach staff will ‘conduct awareness campaigns, structured early-intervention dialogues, and referral assistance, all aimed at connecting with individuals at the earliest opportunity’. Furthermore, individuals with personal experience within these communities will be hired and trained to foster sustainable local support networks. The national program for those affected by others' gambling seeks to assist the estimated four million people in England who may be dealing with the repercussions of someone else’s gambling without necessarily recognizing the root cause. Assistance will be delivered through professional training, peer support groups, and digital resources. The initiative aims to shorten the path from harm to recovery by providing customized, expert support, particularly for underserved communities. GamCare expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with other grant recipients to establish a unified approach to addressing gambling harm across England. This effort includes coordination with local councils, following the recent distribution of £12m to metropolitan boroughs, unitary authorities, London boroughs, and county councils. “Approximately one out of every seven calls to the GamCare National Gambling Helpline originates from someone impacted by another person’s gambling, and we recognize the critical need to reach and assist more people in these circumstances,” Corbishley remarked. “This investment would enable us to achieve that, while also developing the insights and evidence necessary to bolster the sector’s response for the future.” Interested in more updates like this? Visit the new SBC Media YouTube Channel, the central hub for all multimedia content from SBC, where our team explores the most significant developments across the iGaming, sports betting, payments, and affiliate 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.
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Suspected Chinese casino boss detained in Thailand iGame

Suspected Chinese casino boss detained in Thailand

(AsiaGameHub) - A Chinese citizen suspected of connections to 239 illicit gambling sites has been apprehended in Thailand, after using a Saint Kitts and Nevis passport to avoid attention. According to local publication The Thaiger, Bei Minsi, aged 32, was arrested in the Pattaya area by Thailand's Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) based on information from the Chinese embassy. Although born in China, Minsi obtained citizenship from Saint Kitts and Nevis via its investment migration scheme, a route also taken by other individuals associated with Chinese illegal gambling rings. A recent probe by the Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCRP) and The Times identified Su Jiangbo as the fugitive whose assets were seized by the UK Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) using an Unexplained Wealth Order. Jiangbo employed his St. Kitts and Nevis golden passport to buy London real estate and is now required to justify the origin of the purchase funds to UK officials. Minsi is alleged to have participated in an unlawful gambling operation with over 330,000 Chinese users, generating revenue of 13 billion baht (£300.9m). Authorities state he used his second passport to travel to Thailand undetected. Investigative findings connect Minsi to She Zhijiang, who was likewise detained in Thailand and later sent back to China to answer charges concerning illegal gambling. Zhijiang leads the Yatai International Holdings Group, the firm responsible for developing the Shwe Kokko Special Economic Zone in Myanmar. This border city with Thailand is known as a centre for scam operations. Zhijiang has previously faced sanctions from UK and US authorities over suspected criminal deeds and connections to human trafficking. Thai reports indicate officials are now arranging for Minsi's deportation to China to confront the allegations legally. The Chinese government has intensified efforts to prosecute those running illegal casino and scam schemes in Southeast Asia, which are more frequently preying on Chinese citizens. In January, China obtained the extradition of Chen Zhi, a Cambodian-arrested tycoon of Chinese origin accused of operating a massive fraud network. Zhi established the Prince Holding Group, a Cambodian-based conglomerate worth billions of pounds. UK and US officials have accused the group of building casinos and complexes to run scams worth billions of dollars, employing forced labour. 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.
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Is high street gambling expansion overlooked? – OHID’s £12m council funding revealed iGame

Is high street gambling expansion overlooked? – OHID’s £12m council funding revealed

(AsiaGameHub) - As the UK’s safer gambling landscape continues to evolve, the Office of Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) has distributed significant grants to local authorities through its gambling harms prevention fund, with Birmingham receiving the largest allocation of £332,769. London’s local authorities also received substantial support as the funding methodology was disclosed, with 50% of the distribution based on population size and the other 50% determined by the Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD). In total, a £12 million fund was shared among County councils, Unitary authorities, Metropolitan boroughs, and London boroughs. Other major recipients included Essex (£289,842), Lancashire (£275,649), Hampshire (£234,867), Manchester (£167,338), and Bradford (£154,748). While political debates and campaigning regarding high street gambling have persisted into 2026, the concentration of gambling venues in specific areas appears not to have been a factor in the funding allocation process. Middlesbrough, which consistently ranks among the areas with the highest density of gambling establishments—from bookmakers to Adult Gaming Centres—was allocated only £45,312 from the grant. Similarly, Luton and Blackpool also host a high concentration of gambling venues, yet their respective councils received just £57,611 and £44,159. The funding for Blackpool is particularly notable given its high volume of casinos and gaming centers, often being characterized as a destination for gambling tourism. Does this data suggest a potential weakness in the funding criteria? The OHID has admitted that there is currently insufficient evidence to develop a formula that perfectly accounts for the regional variations in gambling-related harm, and it has expressed an intention to refine the allocation model. These funding decisions also accelerate the shift toward a public health-oriented approach to safer gambling, further distancing official strategy from industry-led initiatives in the UK. The ten councils receiving the highest funding were: Birmingham — £332,769 Kent — £326,912 Essex — £289,842 Lancashire — £275,649 Hampshire — £234,867 Hertfordshire — £201,954 Norfolk — £189,672 Surrey — £187,149 Leeds — £182,116 Manchester — £167,338 While the list of top-funded authorities is dominated by large counties, the absence of London councils is misleading, as their funding is spread across a wide variety of individual boroughs. The top ten funded councils in London were: Newham — £93,820 Ealing — £86,487 Brent — £85,877 Croydon — £85,220 Enfield — £79,420 Barnet — £78,507 Tower Hamlets — £81,537 Greenwich — £63,731 Hillingdon — £65,585 Hounslow — £65,563 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.
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Unibet Under Fire in Netherlands for Customer Due Diligence Failings iGame

Unibet Under Fire in Netherlands for Customer Due Diligence Failings

(AsiaGameHub) - Unibet has faced criticism in the Netherlands for breaching the nation’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing Act (Wwft). Optdeck Service Limited, the entity operating the FDJ United brand in the Dutch market, has received an AML/CFT directive from the Netherlands’ gaming authority Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) following an investigation that found customer due diligence was ‘not being performed sufficiently’. The KSA noted that Unibet’s transaction monitoring and control measures do not align well with its policy in practice, and the operator must adjust its policy to make player and transaction monitoring more effective. Specifically, the regulator highlighted that policy adjustments are needed for financial thresholds. Via the directive, the KSA has ordered Unibet to cease its various violations. However, the regulator pointed out that the operator had ‘a cooperative attitude and proactively worked on a remediation plan’, with some violations stopped during the investigation. The KSA will conduct a follow-up inspection once the term expires. According to the regulator’s published documents, the term’s expiration date was extended in October last year. Unibet must adjust its financial thresholds to be more effective by 17 November 2025. Continuous monitoring of business relationships and client transactions must be improved by 14 April 2026. iGaming Expert has contacted Unibet to request comment on the AML/CFT directive it received from the KSA. Unibet’s recent Dutch duty-of-care fine In December last year, the KSA imposed a €4m fine on Unibet for failing to comply with duty-of-care responsibilities between 14 July 2022 and 1 July 2024. The regulator’s investigation into player files uncovered various duty-of-care violations, including allowing daily deposits of thousands of euros without intervention when signs of excessive gambling were present, and requesting income information weeks later— even after substantial losses occurred. Interventions selected were also ‘far too light’, such as easily dismissible pop-up windows, and during financial checks, non-permitted income streams (like company accounts) were included. At the time, Unibet told iGaming Expert that it ‘could have acted sooner’ in some duty-of-care cases but contested some of the investigation’s conclusions, stating that the rules during the period of the failings ‘were less specific than they are now’. In its defence against the sanctions, Unibet has challenged the KSA over the clarity of Dutch iGaming regulations. A spokesperson for FDJ United told iGaming Expert at the time: “Unibet takes this matter and its duty of care to provide a safe gaming environment at all times very seriously. We acknowledge that, with the knowledge we have now, we could have acted sooner in the case of some of the players investigated. At the same time, we do not agree with some of the conclusions. “The decision relates to the period June 2022–July 2024, when the rules were less specific than they are now. We applied those rules to the best of our knowledge. In its decision, the KSA applies a stricter interpretation than what was stated in the rules at the time. The legislation and regulations have since been tightened and, since October 2024, there has been a clearer framework for gambling limits. “Since September 2024, we have been working with a new risk detection system that identifies risky gambling behaviour more quickly and leads to stricter interventions. We are also taking additional measures to protect players. The issues referred to by the KSA are no longer possible on our platform.” Looking for more stories like this? Check out the new SBC Media YouTube Channel— the new home for all multimedia content at SBC— where our team deep-dives into the biggest stories across the sports betting, iGaming, affiliate, and payments industries. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.
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FinHarbor Repackages Its Hybrid Neobank Module – A Unified Banking and CEX Infrastructure Stack for Crypto-Native Financial Products SeaPRwire

FinHarbor Repackages Its Hybrid Neobank Module – A Unified Banking and CEX Infrastructure Stack for Crypto-Native Financial Products

The company repositions its core offering for operators who need a full-featured centralized exchange, regulated fiat banking, and compliance infrastructure deployed as a single stack Nicosia, Cyprus – April 10, 2026 – (SeaPRwire) – Fintech infrastructure provider FinHarbor has repackaged its Hybrid Neobank Module into a unified launch stack that combines regulated fiat banking with a full-featured centralized exchange engine. Financial platforms, exchanges, and digital asset companies can now deploy both under a single infrastructure rather than assembling them from separate vendors. The move addresses a consistent pain point: operators building hybrid fiat-crypto products have had to piece together exchange engines, banking integrations, compliance layers, and treasury infrastructure from multiple providers. FinHarbor bundles these into one deployable system. A Production-Grade CEX at the Core The exchange engine at the heart of the module is built for serious trading volumes and low-latency execution – relevant both for institutional market makers and algorithmic strategies running at scale. Exact throughput and latency parameters are configured to match each operator’s infrastructure requirements. The platform supports Spot, Margin, and Perpetual Futures trading – open-ended contracts with no expiry date. Traders get a full professional order type suite: Limit, Market, and Stop orders, with Time-in-Force controls and Post Only mode for passive liquidity provision. The trading terminal runs on both web and mobile and includes a full order book with bid/ask depth and cumulative volume, TradingView charting with click-to-price order entry, a depth chart, real-time trade history, and a live view of active, executed, and cancelled orders. Trading pairs – crypto, fiat, and local payment instruments in any combination – are configurable per operator and can be shown selectively to different user groups: retail, institutional, and internal. API Access for Bots and Market Makers The exchange connects via REST, WebSocket, or FIX. A single API key covers both the wallet and the exchange, with granular permission settings managed directly from the interface. This makes the platform usable for bot trading, algorithmic strategies, and third-party market maker integrations without additional infrastructure on the operator’s side. Liquidity is structured by user tier: institutional pairs run on automated market making with external liquidity aggregation, retail pairs are hedged through multi-leg chains, and internal pairs support manual market making with end-of-day hedging. Two Accounts, One Ecosystem Each user operates with multiple accounts within a single ecosystem: a Main Account for deposits, withdrawals, on/off-ramp, and card operations, plus dedicated trading accounts for Spot, Margin, and Futures activity. “The line between banking apps and trading platforms is disappearing,” said Ilya Podoynitsyn, CEO of FinHarbor. “Operators no longer want to assemble five vendors to go live – wallets, exchange engines, compliance, fiat rails, treasury. They need a single infrastructure layer they can deploy, configure, and scale. That’s what we’ve built.” Risk Controls Built Into the Exchange The trading layer includes: Fat Finger Protection against erroneous order submission, Price Slippage Limits, Self-Match Prevention, a User Kill Switch for emergency account deactivation, Cancel on Disconnect for FIX sessions, Message Throttling, and Mass Cancel for rapid position clearing. All trading activity feeds directly into the platform’s AML monitoring and accounting systems. Compliance and Treasury as Core Infrastructure A unified AML and KYC layer covers both fiat and crypto flows, with source-of-funds checks, sanctions screening, and KYT monitoring embedded into onboarding and transactions. Treasury-configured hedging protects operators against exchange rate moves during crypto-fiat conversion. This matters particularly as MiCA in Europe and expanding licensing regimes across MENA raise the compliance bar for hybrid financial products. Built for Operators Expanding Beyond Payments The module is aimed at: challenger banks entering crypto with exchange functionality exchanges adding regulated fiat rails and neobanking features wallets expanding into active trading products OTC and treasury platforms building client-facing financial products The stack also connects to external loyalty and rewards platforms, enabling cashback, points, and retention mechanics without proprietary development. About FinHarbor FinHarbor is a technical platform provider for launching compliant, modular financial products – from wallets and neobanks to crypto ramps and OTC desks. Built on years of real-world fintech experience, the platform covers onboarding, compliance, wallets, transactions, cards, and reporting, delivered with a microservice-based architecture (ISO/PCI DSS-certified), a robust API layer, and on-premise or cloud-ready deployment. FinHarbor supports fiat-only, crypto-native, and hybrid business models across markets in Europe, MENA, and beyond. Learn more: www.finharbor.com Social Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/finharbor/ Blog: https://www.finharbor.com/blog Media contact Brand: FinHarbor Contact: Media team Email: press@finharbor.comWebsite: https://www.finharbor.com/
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FinHarbor Repackages Its Hybrid Neobank Module – A Unified Banking and CEX Infrastructure Stack for Crypto-Native Financial Products ACN Newswire

FinHarbor Repackages Its Hybrid Neobank Module – A Unified Banking and CEX Infrastructure Stack for Crypto-Native Financial Products

NICOSIA, Apr 10, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) -?Fintech infrastructure provider FinHarbor has repackaged its Hybrid Neobank Module into a unified launch stack that combines regulated fiat banking with a full-featured centralized exchange engine. Financial platforms, exchanges, and digital asset companies can now deploy both under a single infrastructure rather than assembling them from separate vendors.The move addresses a consistent pain point: operators building hybrid fiat-crypto products have had to piece together exchange engines, banking integrations, compliance layers, and treasury infrastructure from multiple providers. FinHarbor bundles these into one deployable system.A Production-Grade CEX at the CoreThe exchange engine at the heart of the module is built for serious trading volumes and low-latency execution ? relevant both for institutional market makers and algorithmic strategies running at scale. Exact throughput and latency parameters are configured to match each operator's infrastructure requirements.The platform supports Spot, Margin, and Perpetual Futures trading ? open-ended contracts with no expiry date. Traders get a full professional order type suite: Limit, Market, and Stop orders, with Time-in-Force controls and Post Only mode for passive liquidity provision.The trading terminal runs on both web and mobile and includes a full order book with bid/ask depth and cumulative volume, TradingView charting with click-to-price order entry, a depth chart, real-time trade history, and a live view of active, executed, and cancelled orders. Trading pairs ? crypto, fiat, and local payment instruments in any combination ? are configurable per operator and can be shown selectively to different user groups: retail, institutional, and internal.API Access for Bots and Market MakersThe exchange connects via REST, WebSocket, or FIX. A single API key covers both the wallet and the exchange, with granular permission settings managed directly from the interface. This makes the platform usable for bot trading, algorithmic strategies, and third-party market maker integrations without additional infrastructure on the operator's side.Liquidity is structured by user tier: institutional pairs run on automated market making with external liquidity aggregation, retail pairs are hedged through multi-leg chains, and internal pairs support manual market making with end-of-day hedging.Two Accounts, One EcosystemEach user operates with multiple accounts within a single ecosystem: a Main Account for deposits, withdrawals, on/off-ramp, and card operations, plus dedicated trading accounts for Spot, Margin, and Futures activity."The line between banking apps and trading platforms is disappearing," said Ilya Podoynitsyn, CEO of FinHarbor. "Operators no longer want to assemble five vendors to go live ? wallets, exchange engines, compliance, fiat rails, treasury. They need a single infrastructure layer they can deploy, configure, and scale. That's what we've built."Risk Controls Built Into the ExchangeThe trading layer includes: Fat Finger Protection against erroneous order submission, Price Slippage Limits, Self-Match Prevention, a User Kill Switch for emergency account deactivation, Cancel on Disconnect for FIX sessions, Message Throttling, and Mass Cancel for rapid position clearing. All trading activity feeds directly into the platform's AML monitoring and accounting systems.Compliance and Treasury as Core InfrastructureA unified AML and KYC layer covers both fiat and crypto flows, with source-of-funds checks, sanctions screening, and KYT monitoring embedded into onboarding and transactions. Treasury-configured hedging protects operators against exchange rate moves during crypto-fiat conversion.This matters particularly as MiCA in Europe and expanding licensing regimes across MENA raise the compliance bar for hybrid financial products.Built for Operators Expanding Beyond PaymentsThe module is aimed at:● challenger banks entering crypto with exchange functionality● exchanges adding regulated fiat rails and neobanking features● wallets expanding into active trading products● OTC and treasury platforms building client-facing financial productsThe stack also connects to external loyalty and rewards platforms, enabling cashback, points, and retention mechanics without proprietary development.About FinHarborFinHarbor is a technical platform provider for launching compliant, modular financial products ? from wallets and neobanks to crypto ramps and OTC desks. Built on years of real-world fintech experience, the platform covers onboarding, compliance, wallets, transactions, cards, and reporting, delivered with a microservice-based architecture (ISO/PCI DSS-certified), a robust API layer, and on-premise or cloud-ready deployment. FinHarbor supports fiat-only, crypto-native, and hybrid business models across markets in Europe, MENA, and beyond. Learn more: www.finharbor.comSocial LinksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/finharbor/Blog: https://www.finharbor.com/blogMedia contactBrand: FinHarborContact: Media teamEmail: press@finharbor.comWebsite: https://www.finharbor.com/ Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
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Florida AG Probes OpenAI After Fatal Campus Shooting iGame

Florida AG Probes OpenAI After Fatal Campus Shooting

(AsiaGameHub) - Florida has moved the narrative surrounding OpenAI from a technology issue to the subject of a formal state inquiry. Attorney General James Uthmeier stated his office will investigate the potential involvement of ChatGPT in the 2025 shooting at Florida State University, confirming that subpoenas are imminent. Good to Know Uthmeier announced the investigation on April 9, 2026. The investigation focuses on allegations that ChatGPT was utilized to plan the April 2025 FSU shooting, which resulted in two fatalities and five injuries. OpenAI has stated it will work with investigators. Florida Turns FSU Shooting Claim Into OpenAI Probe The legal challenge emerged prior to any formal court action. Uthmeier asserted that Florida is seeking explanations from OpenAI regarding actions he alleges have put Americans at risk and aided in the FSU shooting. He also confirmed that subpoenas are expected soon. This announcement came after a recent claim from attorneys representing a victim of the shooting. They alleged last week that ChatGPT was used to assist in planning the attack, and the victim's family has announced its intention to file a lawsuit against OpenAI. Consequently, the focus has expanded beyond abstract product safety concerns. Florida is now attempting to determine if a state investigation can link the use of a chatbot to actual violence in a case that already holds significant public importance following the April 2025 campus attack that killed two and wounded five.Uthmeier presented the issue in severe terms, stating: “AI should advance mankind, not destroy it.” He further claimed that OpenAI's activities had “hurt kids, endangered Americans, and facilitated the recent FSU mass shooting.” OpenAI's response was more measured. The company noted that over 900 million people use ChatGPT weekly, highlighted its continuous safety efforts, and committed to cooperating with the attorney general's investigation. The state's action also comes at a delicate moment for the company. According to a Reuters report, the Florida investigation coincides with OpenAI's preparations for a potential initial public offering that might value the firm at up to $1 trillion. 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.
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Salary Dispute at Gunzilla Games Amid Off the Grid’s Decline iGame

Salary Dispute at Gunzilla Games Amid Off the Grid’s Decline

(AsiaGameHub) - Gunzilla Games is confronting an issue more severe than player engagement. The primary narrative surrounding the studio has shifted to employee grievances over unpaid salaries, as both current and former staff report payment delays lasting for months. Good to Know Current and former employees have publicly alleged unpaid wages at Gunzilla Games. Some workers said missed payments stretched as far back as August and September, while one former employee claimed five months without pay. At the same time, Gunzilla kept expanding around Off the Grid, GUNZ, and the Game Informer acquisition. Gunzilla Wage Claims Now Overshadow The Expansion Story The most direct way to understand the current circumstances is not through cryptocurrency or game strategy, but through payroll issues. Several employees have stated that Gunzilla did not pay wages for extended periods, and this accusation now overshadows all other company initiatives. A former employee mentioned that the unpaid debt spanned multiple months. Oleksandr Linovichenko stated he was not compensated for August and September. Another former worker, Antron Palii, reported going without pay for five months. Their public statements brought the matter to light. This creates a contradictory picture of the company. While Gunzilla continued to advance significant projects like Off the Grid, the GUNZ blockchain network, the GUN token launch, and the purchase of Game Informer, giving an external impression of growth, internally, staff were reporting prolonged lapses in payment.Off the Grid remains the central component of this narrative, but its context has changed. Decrypt characterized the game as a prominent early access title with blockchain elements still in development; however, the excitement for the game is now rivaled by increasing concerns over Gunzilla's management of its payroll responsibilities. Consequently, the harm extends beyond a single late payment. A game studio can recover from a disappointing launch or a postponed feature. However, ongoing public allegations of unpaid salaries damage trust in the company itself. This affects hiring, employee retention, credibility, and all future propositions regarding Gunzilla's viability as a long-term platform enterprise. 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.
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Bitcoin Unveils Two New Quantum Defense Strategies Without Full Upgrade iGame

Bitcoin Unveils Two New Quantum Defense Strategies Without Full Upgrade

(AsiaGameHub) - Developers are creating contingency plans for a potential threat that is likely still years in the future. One approach aims to secure high-value transactions immediately, while another seeks to provide wallet owners a way to verify ownership should conventional digital signatures become vulnerable. Good to Know According to a StarkWare proposal, Bitcoin transactions can be secured against quantum computers now without altering the core protocol, although the technique is costly. Lightning Labs CTO Olaoluwa Osuntokun has demonstrated a functional prototype that allows a user to prove wallet ownership from a seed phrase without disclosing the seed itself. Google announced in March that next-generation quantum systems could potentially break elliptic curve cryptography using significantly fewer resources than previously thought. Currently, there is no inexpensive or swift solution available. Instead, Bitcoin has two preliminary contingency strategies that address the same quantum risk from different angles. StarkWare's approach focuses on securing transactions, whereas Lightning Labs targets wallet recovery. Fix No.1 StarkWare's Avihu Levy introduced a concept called Quantum Safe Bitcoin (QSB). This method bypasses the standard elliptic curve signature process, opting instead for a hash-based computational puzzle. Essentially, the sender repeatedly guesses an input until the output resembles a valid signature. Levy contends that a powerful quantum computer would not have the same mathematical advantage against this method as it would against elliptic curve cryptography. While promising, the compromise is significant. A single transaction could require between $75 and $150 in GPU computing power, with some estimates nearing $200 based on the configuration. Furthermore, QSB is not easily scalable, creates non-standard transactions, and is incompatible with the Lightning Network. Consequently, this design is better suited for large Bitcoin transfers rather than everyday payments.Fix No.2 The second strategy takes a distinctly different path. Olaoluwa Osuntokun developed a prototype enabling a user to demonstrate that a wallet was generated from a specific seed phrase without ever revealing the phrase. This verifies ownership by establishing the wallet's origin, sidestepping the conventional signature method that a future quantum computer could compromise. The prototype's performance is already respectable. Demonstrations indicated that generating a proof takes approximately 50 seconds on a standard laptop, verification requires under two seconds, and the proof file is about 1.7 megabytes. Although there is no deployment schedule yet, the concept has advanced beyond theoretical discussion. Google's recent findings have intensified the focus on this issue. In March, its researchers suggested that future quantum computers might need a much smaller number of physical qubits to break cryptographic systems like those used in Bitcoin. This does not indicate an imminent threat, but it does add a sense of urgency to preparedness efforts. A more complex aspect of the debate involves existing vulnerabilities. Older P2PK wallets, where public keys are visible on the blockchain, are often cited as a weak link in quantum risk assessments. This is a primary reason the community remains divided on solutions like protocol upgrades, coin freezing, or emergency measures. Neither QSB nor the Lightning Labs prototype resolves this fundamental dispute. They simply provide Bitcoin with additional time and flexibility while a comprehensive, long-term protocol solution remains under development. 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.
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Four Major Japanese Game Publishers Endorse a Novel Blockchain Approach iGame

Four Major Japanese Game Publishers Endorse a Novel Blockchain Approach

(AsiaGameHub) - Japan no longer frames blockchain gaming as an uncharted new frontier. Instead, it’s integrating the technology into existing successful elements: strong game brands, a large crypto user base, and regulations that are becoming more user-friendly. This shift means less hype and more structured implementation. Good to Know Japan is moving toward a 20% tax system for crypto gains, bringing it closer to the tax treatment applied to stocks. The country has over 12 million crypto users, providing Web3 products with a ready-made audience. Square Enix has already entered the space with SYMBIOGENESIS, showing how existing intellectual property can serve as an entry point. Japan Is Developing Blockchain Gaming Around Familiar Assets The key principle here is not to prioritize crypto first—it’s to prioritize IP first. Japan has manga, anime, and game franchises that already hold audience trust, so blockchain is added as a layer rather than being sold as the entire product. This makes the offering easier to understand and far less dependent on speculation. That’s where major publishers come into play. Square Enix has already used SYMBIOGENESIS as its Web3 test project, while the broader story in Japan keeps circling back to large legacy companies using blockchain more cautiously than the early play-to-earn community did. Regulation is now helping rather than hindering progress. Japan is preparing a 20% tax treatment for crypto gains and aligning digital assets more closely with the financial system, giving companies and users a more streamlined setup than the old high-tax structure. For gaming, this matters because token systems look less like fringe experiments once the policy environment stabilizes. The user side is just as important. Japan already has millions of crypto users, so blockchain gaming doesn’t need to start from scratch. This doesn’t eliminate NFT skepticism, but it does mean the country has a much stronger base for digital ownership products than markets still trying to explain wallets and tokens to new users. So Japan’s model looks quite different from the old Web3 template. Instead of chasing hype, it leans on well-known characters, established studios, and a more formal rulebook. This doesn’t guarantee every project will succeed, but it does make the overall approach appear more durable. 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.
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South Africa Introduces Verification Portal to Combat Unlicensed Gambling iGame

South Africa Introduces Verification Portal to Combat Unlicensed Gambling

(AsiaGameHub) - South Africa is working to simplify the identification of illicit gambling activities before any financial transactions occur. A new public verification portal has been introduced by the National Gambling Board, providing a directory of licensed entities and a straightforward method for users to confirm authorized operators. Key Information The platform was launched on April 8, 2026. It features a searchable database of all verified gambling providers within South Africa. According to the National Gambling Board, the resource is designed to direct consumers away from unauthorized gambling sites. South Africa Increases Transparency for Operator Verification The primary significance of this launch lies in the clear distinction it establishes rather than the site itself. The National Gambling Board emphasizes that any operator missing from this portal lacks the authorization to provide gambling services in the country. This shifts the initial approach for customers, regulatory bodies, financial institutions, and law enforcement. Rather than addressing ambiguity following a scam or dispute, the NGB intends for legitimacy to be verified beforehand via a unified searchable registry developed alongside provincial authorities. The board confirmed the database will be regularly updated and accessible to tax officials, police, and banks. This initiative addresses a long-standing issue in South Africa. The NGB has noted that unauthorized operators frequently pose as legal entities, accepting Rand deposits and utilizing official logos to deceive the public. Furthermore, the board's strategic planning highlighted challenges such as limited public awareness, insufficient enforcement focus, and the use of financial systems for illicit online betting.Consequently, the tool functions more as a screening mechanism than a promotional one. Acting CEO Lungile Dukwana characterized the portal as a "vital move" toward safeguarding citizens from unlawful gambling, noting that it provides a reliable way to verify licenses while enhancing industry-wide accountability and supervision. As Africa's premier regulated gambling market, South Africa's NGB views this portal as part of an extensive strategy to defend the economy and the public by encouraging engagement with locally authorized operators over illegal competitors. 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.
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CoinW, a cryptocurrency exchange, signs Luka Modrić as its global football ambassador iGame

CoinW, a cryptocurrency exchange, signs Luka Modrić as its global football ambassador

(AsiaGameHub) - CoinW's focus in this move is not on its product but on brand awareness. The cryptocurrency exchange has appointed football legend Luka Modrić as its global brand ambassador, linking one of the sport's most acclaimed figures to a broader initiative focused on cryptocurrency education and outreach through sports. Good to Know CoinW revealed Luka Modrić as its global brand ambassador on April 9, 2026. The firm reports it has served over 20 million registered users since its 2017 launch. CoinW previously established football connections via La Liga and the East Asian Football Championship. CoinW Uses Football Status To Broaden Its Crypto Pitch While the agreement can simply be seen as a branding effort, CoinW is also leveraging it as a tool for user acquisition. The company states the collaboration will help introduce football supporters to digital assets via educational materials and campaigns tailored for fans, with increased initiatives scheduled around the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This positions the Modrić agreement as a component of a larger sports strategy rather than an isolated event. CoinW previously entered a regional partnership with La Liga in early 2025 and had also become an official supporter of the East Asian Football Championship. The company then highlights its own narrative alongside this news. The exchange notes it was founded in 2017, expanded despite market fluctuations, and currently caters to more than 20 million users globally. The press release also states that, according to its internal records, there have been no major publicly reported security breaches.Thus, the partnership is presented as emphasizing both prestige and steadfastness. CoinW aligns Modrić's career with principles such as discipline, consistency, and enduring trustworthiness, then reflects these qualities onto its own brand. The company cites his Ballon d'Or victory and six UEFA Champions League triumphs as elements of this narrative. CoinW Chief Strategy Officer Nassar Al Achkar said: “Luka Modrić’s dedication and resilience inspire us to stay true to our mission. We are committed to building a trusted platform that empowers users to confidently enter and explore the world of digital finance.” 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.
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Majority of UK Gamblers Refuse to Submit Financial Documents iGame

Majority of UK Gamblers Refuse to Submit Financial Documents

(AsiaGameHub) - A recent survey has intensified the debate over affordability checks in the UK. The majority of gamblers state they would decline to submit private financial paperwork to continue betting, lending further credence to industry warnings that stricter checks might drive consumers away from the legal market. Good to Know According to the Betting and Gaming Council, 65% of those surveyed would decline to submit documents like bank statements or pay slips. The Gambling Commission has stated that permanent financial risk evaluations will only be implemented if the pilot scheme demonstrates a seamless process. British horse racing has also increased its resistance, cautioning that the checks threaten funding derived from betting. UK Check Debate Turns On Friction And Trust The core issue has shifted beyond mere policy formulation to one of customer defiance. If a majority of bettors are unwilling to provide pay slips or bank statements, even a system with good intentions is likely to fail at the point of expected compliance. This is the critical tension currently fueling the discussion. The Gambling Commission has attempted to characterize the procedure in an alternative light. Its stance is that more rigorous financial risk checks should only be introduced after a trial period confirms that data-sharing can be seamless for most users. The regulator has also clarified that consumers will not face any impact during the pilot phase while these systems are being trialed and improved. The disconnect between the authorities' statements and the public's response is the reason the dispute continues to escalate. Grainne Hurst commented:“While ministers assured punters of hassle-free checks, the Gambling Commission is proceeding with measures that are the direct opposite. Compelling punters to provide bank statements is not 'frictionless'; it is an invasion of privacy that will push customers towards the black market, which offers no consumer protections.” The racing industry has added its voice to the opposition, approaching it from a distinct perspective. In a recent open letter to Lisa Nandy, the British Horseracing Authority warned that the proposed affordability checks could inflict permanent harm on the sport. A subsequent blog post noted that over 400 individuals from the racing world, along with cross-party MPs and peers, support this plea. 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.
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Italian Football Federation Blames 2019 Gambling Ad Ban for Three Consecutive World Cup Absences iGame

Italian Football Federation Blames 2019 Gambling Ad Ban for Three Consecutive World Cup Absences

(AsiaGameHub) - Italian football authorities contend that the prohibition on gambling advertisements has failed to safeguard the sport, instead serving only to deplete its financial resources. In a report published on April 8, Gabriele Gravina linked the 2019 legislative restrictions to a broader deterioration in club fiscal health, youth talent cultivation, and overall competitive standing. Key Insights Serie A teams report that the ban has resulted in an annual loss of approximately €100 million to €150 million in sponsorship income. Professional football in Italy is currently facing annual operating deficits exceeding €700 million. Italy sits 49th out of 50 leagues regarding playing time for U21 players eligible for the national squad, with a share of just 1.9%. Italian Football Claims the Ban Depleted Revenue Without Delivering Benefits The report’s primary assertion is straightforward: while Italian football suffered a loss in funding, the anticipated reduction in problem gambling failed to materialize. Gravina cited findings from a parliamentary inquiry in Italy, which indicated that gambling activity—including among minors—actually increased following the implementation of the restrictions, alongside a rise in illicit wagering. Consequently, the debate has shifted beyond mere sponsorship concerns to the issue of competitive disadvantage. UEFA statistics indicate that gambling and sports betting firms are the most prevalent shirt sponsors throughout Europe; however, Italian clubs have been forced to operate under a near-total prohibition since the Dignity Decree was enacted. This has left Italian teams at a significant disadvantage compared to their international rivals. Gravina utilized this disparity to highlight a more significant systemic failure. Italy has failed to qualify for the World Cup three consecutive times, and the report argues these outcomes are not coincidental but rather symptoms of structural decline. The domestic system is failing to foster Italian talent, with youth development suffering and club finances under pressure. Players under 21 who are eligible for the national team receive only 1.9% of total minutes, whereas foreign players occupy 68% of playing time in Serie A.Financial instability is at the heart of these issues. Serie A clubs estimate they have lost between €100 million and €150 million in annual sponsorship revenue since the ban was introduced, even as the professional game records over €700 million in annual operating losses. While some clubs have attempted to mitigate these losses through infotainment partnerships—such as Inter’s arrangement with Betsson Sport—these agreements fail to compensate for the value of traditional sponsorships. For this reason, Gravina advocates for the redirection of gambling revenue rather than a total exclusion. His proposal involves repealing the sponsorship ban and allocating a portion of betting proceeds toward youth academies, grassroots initiatives, and infrastructure improvements. As reported by Reuters, Sports Minister Andrea Abodi has also advocated for replacing the decree, characterizing it as an overly simplistic populist measure. Although new legislation has yet to be introduced and opposition remains expected—particularly regarding broader advertising regulations—the federation’s central argument is clear: the ban has damaged football’s financial stability and hindered development without achieving the public health objectives for which it was originally intended. 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.
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2025 Atlantic City Casino Profits Fall 3.9% iGame

2025 Atlantic City Casino Profits Fall 3.9%

(AsiaGameHub) - Atlantic City casinos avoided a revenue collapse in 2025, but the primary issue arose after the funds were collected. As costs continued to rise and margins narrowed, operating profit trended downward. This occurs just as the market prepares for stiffer competition from New York and renewed discussions about casino expansion within New Jersey. Good to Know In 2025, gross operating profit for Atlantic City casinos and two online-only operators decreased by 3.9% to $681.6 million. Net revenue remained flat, though fourth-quarter net revenue was the highest since 2018, according to James Plousis. New York is still pursuing three downstate casino licenses, which creates additional pressure for Atlantic City. Profit Declines Despite Stable Revenue The most significant figure is profit, not revenue. The nine Atlantic City casinos and two online-only entities reported a gross operating profit of $681.6 million for 2025, a drop of 3.9%, even though annual net revenue remained largely steady. This represents the fifth consecutive year in which escalating expenses have squeezed the market. James Plousis stated it clearly, noting that Atlantic City experienced “flat annual net revenue and lower gross operating profit during 2025, having encountered increased costs and expenses for a fifth consecutive year.” He also observed that the market finished on a stronger note, with fourth-quarter net revenue hitting its highest level since 2018. Focusing strictly on the nine land-based casinos, profits still declined, though the drop was smaller. Their total gross operating profit reached $665.4 million, down 1.4%. This distinction is crucial because online expansion has helped sustain total revenue in New Jersey, even as land-based operators confront higher labor, energy, and product costs.Results were mixed across properties. Borgata led the market with $237.4 million in gross operating profit, an increase of 13.8%. Ocean hit $112 million, up 10.6%, and Golden Nugget rose to $28.2 million, an increase of nearly 57%. In contrast, Hard Rock fell 8.6% to $123.8 million, Tropicana dropped 25% to $61.7 million, Harrah’s declined 12% to $56.5 million, and Caesars fell by over 40% to $34.1 million. Bally’s was the only casino to report an operating loss, shifting from a $2.5 million profit in 2024 to a $2.8 million loss in 2025. Hotel performance offers some insight. Ocean achieved the highest average nightly room rate at $275.87, while Golden Nugget had the lowest at $112.65. Hard Rock recorded the highest occupancy at 83.7%, while Golden Nugget had the lowest at 51.8%. Throughout the city, the average room rate was $175.16 and occupancy was 71.2%, a slight decrease from the previous year. Jane Bokunewicz remarked that operators have attempted to respond to pressure through capital upgrades, marketing, and promotions, but inflation has lessened the impact. Essentially, casinos are spending to maintain demand while trying to reduce expenses, a difficult balance to strike when external costs continue to increase. This would be a difficult situation regardless, but the timing makes it worse. Atlantic City is facing the potential of three New York City casinos, and New Jersey is once again hearing discussions about casino gambling outside of Atlantic City. George Goldhoff stated that the market is dealing with I 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.
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Tommy Tuberville’s Campaign Secures $300K Donation From Sweepstakes Operator VGW iGame

Tommy Tuberville’s Campaign Secures $300K Donation From Sweepstakes Operator VGW

(AsiaGameHub) - Tommy Tuberville expanded his fundraising lead in Alabama, but the more compelling angle lies beyond the typical campaign finance figures. In a state that still prohibits most forms of gambling, a gubernatorial candidate is accepting funds linked to an online sweepstakes firm—all while a separate initiative in Montgomery aims to let voters weigh in on lotteries, casinos, and sports betting. Good to Know Tuberville disclosed $581,377 in donations during March, which included $30,000 from VGW Luckyland Inc.—the company behind Chumba Casino. Alabama continues to restrict legal gambling mostly to properties owned by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians and is one of just five states without a lottery. Senator Merika Coleman’s SB257 would allow voters to decide on lotteries, casinos, and sports betting—provided lawmakers first approve the measure with a three-fifths majority vote. Alabama’s Gambling Debate Becomes Entangled in the Gubernatorial Race While the donation is just $30,000, its significance goes beyond the dollar amount. VGW Luckyland contributed to Tuberville’s campaign despite Alabama being a challenging market for gambling expansion and sweepstakes casinos facing scrutiny in several states. This is why the donation is notable: it appears less like an investment in the status quo and more like a bet on which candidate might influence future gambling laws. Robert Jarvis put that idea in plain terms. He said: “VGW is looking to the future and hoping to buy good will with a candidate who may in the future be in a position to help change Alabama’s gambling laws.”Jarvis’s statement comes against a well-known Alabama context: the state still lacks a lottery, and legal gambling options are limited. Tuberville has stated that expanding gambling is a legislative matter, not a gubernatorial one, but his campaign did not respond to inquiries about the VGW donation. The company also refused to comment, per reports from Covers and other Alabama media outlets. The political timing also favors Tuberville. The Alabama Daily News reported he raised $581,377 in March, compared to Doug Jones’s $175,387 for the Democratic ticket. This puts Tuberville in a strong lead as the May 19 primary and Nov. 3 general election approach. In other parts of Montgomery, the discussion around gambling is taking a different path. Senator Merika Coleman’s SB257 doesn’t establish a complete gambling framework immediately. Instead, it would require lawmakers to first pass a constitutional amendment to put the question of allowing lotteries, casino gaming, and sports betting to voters. Only then would legislators revisit the issue to draft the specifics, such as compact negotiations and regulatory systems. This approach reveals much about Alabama’s current stance on gambling. Supporters recognize that a comprehensive bill would be difficult to pass, so their initial priority is getting the question on the ballot. Coleman has linked the initiative to budgetary pressures and cited polls indicating widespread support for letting voters decide on a lottery. Alabama last held a lottery referendum in 1999, which failed with 54% against and 46% in favor. A 2024 attempt also came up one vote short in the legislature. 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.
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Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers Enacts Mobile Sports Betting Legislation iGame

Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers Enacts Mobile Sports Betting Legislation

(AsiaGameHub) - Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers has signed AB 601 into law, though the real work begins right after his signature. The state now has a clear legal path to roll out statewide mobile sports betting, but tribal nations must first revise their existing compacts with the state and obtain federal approval before any services can officially launch. Key Takeaways AB 601 has been officially enacted as law in Wisconsin. Statewide mobile wagering still cannot go live until tribal compacts are renegotiated and get federal sign-off. All 11 federally recognized tribes in Wisconsin requested that Evers sign the legislation. Evers Approves Bill While Urging Tribes to Adopt a Unified Shared Model The new law does not enable immediate statewide betting operations. What it does is eliminate a longstanding legal barrier and pass responsibility for the next development phase to Wisconsin’s tribes, who now have the authority to build a mobile betting framework that is not limited to operating only on tribal land. Evers made it clear he does not want an uneven split of benefits and responsibilities in this next phase. He wrote: “This legislation marks the start of discussions, not the end of them. The actual work gets underway today. Each of the 11 Tribes must now work diligently and collaboratively to shape the future of sports betting in Wisconsin. What I will not accept is a plan that splits this opportunity into unequal parts, letting some Tribes reap substantial benefits while leaving barely anything for others.”That stance explains why there was earlier uncertainty over whether he would sign the bill at all. Evers had been concerned about inconsistent tribal support, and it was not until Wednesday that all 11 federally recognized tribes sent him a letter urging him to approve the measure. In that letter, they stated: “This legislation was passed with bipartisan backing and has our full support.” While the political hurdle has been cleared, commercial challenges still remain. Major national sportsbook brands such as DraftKings and FanDuel have pushed back against the tribal-led structure, largely because the revenue split required under this framework would leave minimal profit room for outside operators. Covers previously reported that critics from these major brands argued the model could bar them from entering the Wisconsin market entirely. Evers also highlighted the structure he hopes will move forward. He said tribes are already holding discussions in earnest and added that more equitable models for sharing both the risks and rewards of mobile gaming are starting to take form. He then endorsed a single shared setup, writing: “A joint venture where every Tribe contributes, and every Tribe benefits equally, is gaining traction in these discussions, and I strongly support pursuing this or a comparable model.” Even after the governor signed the bill, Wisconsin still has no set launch date for mobile sports betting. The state now has authorization to keep developing its market, rather than having a fully functional finished market. The legislative update came first in this process: first the law was amended, then negotiations begin, and only once those talks conclude successfully will statewide online sportsbooks become a reality. 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.
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Betfair Tests Its New Predict Platform With a Limited Group of UK Users iGame

Betfair Tests Its New Predict Platform With a Limited Group of UK Users

(AsiaGameHub) - Flutter Entertainment's Betfair has not constructed a separate market from the ground up. Instead, it has utilized its existing Exchange engine and applied a new interface known as Betfair Predicts, which is currently in beta with a restricted group of U.K. users. Good to Know Betfair Predicts is being trialed with a limited set of U.K. customers. The product is essentially a visual update of the Betfair Exchange and still utilizes Exchange liquidity. Betfair states that the beta version will evolve based on customer feedback. Betfair Rebrands Exchange Trading Rather Than Creating Something New The key distinction lies beneath the surface. Although Betfair Predicts appears novel, the underlying infrastructure is familiar. Users continue to trade against one another in a peer-to-peer model, and the platform relies on the liquidity already present within the Betfair Exchange. Consequently, this launch focuses more on presentation than on creating a distinct product category. Betfair aims to provide a more straightforward and user-friendly entry point into prediction-style markets, where outcomes are determined by "Yes" and "No" contracts rather than traditional sportsbook odds. This distinction is significant. On the Betfair Exchange, users trade positions that mirror real-time consumer sentiment. In contrast, on the Sportsbook side, bettors face prices set by the bookmaker. Therefore, even with its new appearance, Predicts remains much closer to an exchange than a sportsbook.Betfair is also maintaining a limited rollout for the time being. A spokesperson remarked: “We are continuously testing new innovations, and Betfair Predicts is a prime example of this effort. This is a BETA product that will evolve in response to customer feedback.” The company has also indicated that the long-term trajectory of the platform depends on user reception, although trader feedback to date suggests there is interest in the U.K. market. This timing aligns with the wider discussion regarding prediction markets in the U.K. Matchbook announced last year its intention to launch what it termed the first licensed prediction market platform in the country, while the regulatory framework here differs from that in the U.S. In Britain, the UK Gambling Commission regulates gambling exchanges, and exchange operators may also fall under Financial Conduct Authority regulations concerning financial spread betting and binary options restrictions. 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.
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