Category: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) - Super Group keluar dari AS pada tahun 2025 telah menamatkan pengembangan yang bercita-cita tinggi, tetapi bagi CEO Neal Menashe, ia juga menyoroti di mana syarikat itu memiliki kelebihan daya saing. Afrika menyumbang sekitar 40% daripada pendapatan Super Group dan telah menjadi rantau terbesar mereka selama lima suku berturut-turut, membuktikan betapa pentingnya ia bagi strategi keseluruhan syarikat. Syarikat itu juga melihat momentum yang menggalakkan di pasaran baru seperti Botswana, di mana ia melancarkan operasi pada awal 2025 dan telah merekodkan "pertumbuhan hebat" serta pemerolehan pelanggan. Pengembangan sedang berterusan, dengan Namibia sebagai berikutnya dalam peta jalan kerana jaraknya yang dekat dengan dua negara yang disebutkan sebelum ini, serta beberapa pasaran tambahan yang dalam perancangan untuk dua tahun akan datang. Menashe menunjukkan pemangkin pertumbuhan, termasuk pertumbuhan penduduk, peningkatan penggunaan smartphone dan peningkatan wang mudah alih, dengan pasaran iGaming benua itu dijangka tumbuh dari $11 bilion pada 2025 kepada $22 bilion menjelang 2030. Afrika Selatan, yang Menashe katakan sebagai salah satu pasaran yang paling matang, kekal sebagai landasan utama pertumbuhan ini. “Kami adalah operator teratas di sana. Ia diatur dengan baik, volum kasino rekod dalam suku kami yang baru-baru ini dan momentum berterusan dengan jenama Jackpot City kami,” katanya. Walau bagaimanapun, bukan semua pasaran memberikan kejayaan segera. Nigeria, walaupun saiznya besar, telah terbukti lebih mencabar, mendorong pemikiran semula strategi. “Satu pasaran yang kami tidak lakukan dengan baik adalah Nigeria,” kata Menashe. “Kami sedang menentukan semula strategi kami di Nigeria, yang sama sekali berbeza dengan selebihnya Afrika. Kami melihat banyak potensi positif dan ia jelas merupakan pasaran yang besar serta kami adalah mobile first, jadi kami sedang menyempurnakan produk kami di sana.” Pelajaran dari Amerika Selepas membelanjakan "ratusan juta dolar" untuk cuba bersaing di pasaran yang didominasi oleh DraftKings dan FanDuel, Super Group akhirnya menyimpulkan bahawa tiada laluan jelas ke arah keuntungan di Amerika. Walau bagaimanapun, usaha itu jauh dari sia-sia. Ia menyederhanakan tumpuan syarikat pada pasaran di mana ia sudah mempunyai skala dan kelebihan operasi, terutamanya Afrika, di mana Menashe percaya Super Group memiliki kehadiran yang serupa dengan pemimpin pasaran AS. Bercakap dalam episod terkini iGaming Daily, Menashe berkata: “Kami telah belajar banyak pelajaran. Ia semua tentang menjadi yang terbaik untuk bersaing.” Apa yang ditawarkan Piala Dunia 2026? Dengan sebahagian besar tapak operasinya diwakili, Piala Dunia FIFA 2026 yang akan datang yang diadakan di seluruh AS, Kanada dan Mexico adalah peluang penglibatan penting untuk Super Group. “Sukan adalah tentang kandungan,” kata Menashe, menggambarkan turnamen itu sebagai lanjutan kalendar bola sepak yang berkesan, menyediakan “enam minggu lagi” penglibatan intensiti tinggi. Menurut syarikat itu, 88% daripada pendapatannya datang dari negara-negara yang mengambil bahagian dalam turnamen. Piala Dunia sebelum ini secara konsisten memberikan lonjakan aktiviti pengguna, dan Menashe menjangkakan trend yang serupa kali ini. Tidak bercadang untuk melabur dengan banyak dalam sponsorship turnamen rasmi, yang beliau huraikan sebagai sangat mahal, Super Group akan memfokuskan pada pengaktifan digital dan menggunakan perkongsian bola sepak sedia ada mereka – secara khusus menyebut Arsenal dan Manchester City. Dari segi operasi, keutamaan akan menjadi memastikan kestabilan platform dan pembayaran yang cekap semasa permintaan puncak, terutamanya kerana bilangan pengguna harian boleh mencapai berjuta-juta. Turnamen itu juga memainkan peranan dalam model operasi syarikat. Walaupun Betway dipasarkan sebagai jenama yang dipimpin oleh sukan, kasino adalah pemacu pendapatan utama, menyumbang sekitar 80% daripada pendapatan kumpulan. “Sukan memberi kami interaksi dan kemudian kasino adalah tempat mereka boleh memenangi jumlah besar,” katanya. Kami pada dasarnya adalah kasino, tetapi dengan jenama sukan dan produk sukan yang luar biasa ini, semuanya adalah tentang kandungan.” Mengimbangi cukai dan pertumbuhan Memandangkan kenaikan cukai perjudian baru-baru ini di UK dan pasaran lain di mana Super Group aktif, tidak hairanlah topik ini dibincangkan dalam perbualan. Menashe berkongsi pandangannya bahawa kadar cukai optimum untuk operator iGaming adalah antara 15% dan 25%, memberi amaran bahawa cukai yang berlebihan berisiko mendorong pengguna ke arah pasaran yang tidak diatur. “Apabila anda mengenakan cukai berlebihan ke atas industri sehingga tiada sesiapa boleh menjana wang, negara akhirnya kehilangan semua cukai yang sepatutnya mereka kutip,” katanya, menyerlahkan risiko operator haram mengisi jurang itu. Di UK, di mana kenaikan cukai baru akan berkuat kuasa, Super Group menjangkakan impak kewangan tetapi yakin ia boleh mengurus impak itu melalui kecekapan yang lebih tinggi dan persaingan yang berkurangan apabila operator yang lebih kecil keluar dari pasaran. Syarikat itu sudah menyederhanakan operasinya, mengurangkan bilangan kakitangan dan memfokuskan pelaburan pada pasaran di mana ia boleh mencapai keuntungan mampan seperti Kanada. Dengan cukai yang meningkat bersama-sama dengan persaingan, Menashe menyimpulkan dengan memberikan pandangan dalaman tentang strategi syarikat untuk menyempurnakan pasaran di mana perniagaan boleh menang dan kekal disiplin di tempat lain. “Anda tidak boleh berada di mana-mana,” katanya. “Ia bukan hanya tentang meletakkan laman web... ini adalah tentang menjadi yang terbaik di antara yang terbaik.” Artikel ini disediakan oleh penyedia kandungan pihak ketiga. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) tidak memberikan sebarang jaminan atau representasi berkaitan kandungannya. Kategori: Berita Terkini, Kemas Kini Umum AsiaGameHub menyediakan perkhidmatan pengedaran iGaming yang disasarkan untuk syarikat dan organisasi, dengan menghubungkan lebih daripada 3,000 media premium di Asia serta lebih 80,000 influencer khusus. Ia berfungsi sebagai jambatan utama untuk pengedaran kandungan iGaming, kasino, dan eSports di seluruh rantau ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The most recent FY25 financial results from Playtech Group have shown that the company is lagging in B2B revenue during a period when it is moving away from B2C operations. B2B revenue from last year's trading amounted to €688.3m, a 9% decrease from the €754.3m recorded in 2024. Adjusted EBITDA fell by 36% to €141.4m compared to FY24's €222m, while post-tax profit was €44.2m – a 28% year-on-year decline. The key factor affecting performance was the revised Caliente Interactive agreement at the end of 2024, under which Playtech ceased receiving extra B2B service fees in the first half of 2025 and began receiving dividend payments as a 30.8% equity stakeholder from the second half onward. Strategic regional priorities In contrast to the B2B revenue figures, B2C operational revenue stood at €78.5m (FY24: €97.8m), influenced by the €2.3bn sale of Italian gambling major Snaitech to Flutter Entertainment, along with a further B2C scaling back in Germany through the sale of domestic brand HAPPYBET. Nonetheless, a significant bright spot for Playtech in FY25 was its advancement in North America. Revenue across the US and Canada surged by 71% year-on-year on a constant currency basis, rising from €29.8m to €48m. The company noted that this performance was fueled by strong activity from clients such as DraftKings, FanDuel, Hard Rock Digital, and Delaware North. Live Casino has emerged as a key driver for Playtech’s US operations, the company confirmed, with the number of live tables operated by the firm nearly doubling year-on-year across its studios in New Jersey, Michigan, and Pennsylvania. Turning to Latin America, the region was labeled a "core strategic priority" by company management, even as domestic revenue fell by 27% to €162m, directly attributed to the revised Caliente agreement and the introduction of VAT in Colombia. Still, the regulation of Brazil at the start of last year helped mitigate a more severe impact, with Latin America revenue actually increasing by 8% year-on-year when excluding Caliente. Colombia also remains a viable medium-term opportunity due to Playtech’s local partnership with Wplay and the potential for the government to reduce the 19% VAT on online gambling deposits to a 16% tax on a player’s GGR. Despite tax challenges, B2B revenue in Europe grew by 4% year-on-year to €207.4m. Poland, Spain, Greece, and France were identified as top-performing markets for Playtech throughout 2025. UK revenue, calculated separately from Europe, decreased by 6% year-on-year but retains key priority status for the Isle of Man-based company. The public Playtech Evolution AB dispute… The company also provided an update on its ongoing case with Evolution AB, stating: "Evolution has not sought permission from the New Jersey Court to add any group entity to the proceedings, and no claim has been served on Playtech plc or any of its subsidiaries." In October 2025, Stockholm-listed Evolution released a statement alleging that Playtech had hired Black Cube, an Israeli private intelligence firm that markets itself as specializing in "high-stake disputes." Playtech later acknowledged commissioning a private investigation into its competitor and stated it "stood by its decision" to do so. Evolution characterized the move as a "smear campaign," claiming the investigation—which purports to have uncovered evidence of the company operating illegally in jurisdictions including China, Iran, and Sudan between 2021-2023—aimed to damage its reputation and could cause "multi-billion-dollar" harm. Playtech, however, countered: "Evolution continues to avoid legitimate scrutiny instead of addressing longstanding questions about its conduct, including its decision to supply operators in illegal markets and support unlicensed operators in regulated markets." … which has contributed to a share price plummet The dispute did not sit well with the market, as Playtech shares dropped from 349.5p to 237.5p in the first five hours of trading on the day of the announcement. Its share price has generally trended downward over the past 12 months, declining by more than 50% during that period. The exception has been a positive trend since the start of the year. Even today, despite positive remarks from executives, significant progress in North America, and an upgrade to its expectations, the stock has fallen by 7.5% to £3.31. Its market capitalization remains just over £1bn. Upcoming and ongoing tax challenges, the current dispute with a rival, and declining revenue may be among the factors deterring investors from backing the widely discussed Isle of Man-headquartered company. Playtech’s position as a London-listed firm—specifically a FTSE 250 company—is an unenviable one amid such transformation, and it will aim to advance as outlined by executives to reverse steep drops in profit, revenue, and share price. 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) - Playtech terus menganggap pertikaian undang-undangnya dengan Evolution di AS sebagai hanya 'liabiliti luar jangka', mendedahkan bahawa pesaingnya masih belum memfailkan tuntutan rasmi dalam kes Black Cube yang terkenal itu. Playtech mempertahankan keputusannya untuk menugaskan firma perisikan perniagaan bebas Black Cube untuk menganalisis amalan perniagaan Evolution dan mempertikaikan sebarang dakwaan kelakuan menyalahi undang-undang. Akibatnya, tiada peruntukan tunai sebenar telah diketepikan dalam kunci kira-kira Playtech dalam laporan kewangan FY2025 yang baru diterbitkan untuk menampung potensi kerugian tuntutan mahkamah. Dalam bahagian nota laporannya, Playtech menyatakan: "Pada 21 Oktober 2025, Evolution AB secara terbuka mengenal pasti Playtech Software Limited, anak syarikat Kumpulan, sebagai pihak yang menugaskan di sebalik laporan 2021 yang disediakan oleh Black Cube, yang telah dirujuk dalam prosiding AS yang sedang berjalan tetapi tidak melibatkan mana-mana entiti Kumpulan. "Selain itu, pada tarikh yang sama Evolution AB secara terbuka menyatakan bahawa ia akan meminda aduannya untuk menambah Playtech Software Ltd ke dalam tuntutan mahkamah. Walau bagaimanapun, sehingga tarikh kelulusan penyata kewangan ini, Evolution belum meminta kebenaran Mahkamah untuk menambah mana-mana entiti Kumpulan ke prosiding New Jersey dan tiada tuntutan telah diserahkan kepada Playtech Plc, Playtech Software Limited atau mana-mana entiti Kumpulan lain. "Kumpulan mempertikaikan sebarang dakwaan kelakuan menyalahi undang-undang. Memandangkan peringkat awal dan ketiadaan sebarang tuntutan yang diserahkan kepada Kumpulan, termasuk sebarang petunjuk jumlah yang mungkin dituntut, ini dianggap sebagai liabiliti luar jangka sahaja." Pada Oktober tahun lalu, Evolution mendakwa anak syarikat Playtech, Playtech Software Limited bertanggungjawab menugaskan Black Cube untuk menyiasat aktiviti penyedia di pasaran terlarang dan disekat, serta pembekalannya kepada pengendali tidak berlesen di pasaran terkawal. Playtech bertindak balas pada masa itu dengan menyatakan bahawa cadangan anak syarikatnya mengambil bahagian dalam kempen memburuk-burukkan adalah "sama sekali tidak benar dan direka untuk mengalih perhatian daripada persoalan serius mengenai amalan perniagaan Evolution", sambil menambah bahawa ia mempertahankan keputusannya untuk menugaskan laporan itu dan ia mengalu-alukan pemeriksaan mahkamah. Pada Februari lalu, Evolution juga berahsia mengenai sebarang kemas kini mengenai litigasi dalam laporan Q4 kepada pelabur, tetapi Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Martin Carlesund berkata bahawa syarikat itu "tidak sabar untuk meneruskan tuntutan mahkamah". Penurunan Hasil tetapi Playtech Berpuas Hati dengan Permulaan FY26 Playtech menyatakan bahawa hasil kumpulan FY25 daripada operasi berterusan menurun 10% tahun ke tahun kepada €763.6 juta (FY24: €848 juta), kerana hasil B2B dan B2C menurun berbanding tahun sebelumnya. EBITDA diselaraskan Kumpulan ialah €197 juta, penurunan 9% (FY24: €217.5 juta). Hasil B2B menurun sebanyak 9% tahun ke tahun kepada €688.3 juta (FY24: €754.3 juta), sebahagian besarnya disebabkan oleh perjanjian yang disemak semula dengan Caliente Interactive yang memberi kesan kepada operasi Amerika Latin. Hasil pasaran terkawal menurun sebanyak 7% kepada €559.4 juta (FY24: €598.4 juta) disebabkan oleh perubahan Caliente dan penurunan di UK, yang sebahagiannya diimbangi oleh pertumbuhan di seluruh AS dan Kanada. Secara asasnya, hasil terkawal meningkat sebanyak 6%. Hasil B2C menurun sebanyak 20% kepada €78.5 juta (FY24: €97.8 juta). HAPPYBET di Jerman hampir menamatkan operasinya, dengan penyiapan yang dijangkakan pada tahun 2026. Pada Mei 2025, Playtech mencapai persetujuan dengan NetX Betting, anak syarikat pengendali yang tersenarai di Frankfurt, pferdewetten.de AG, untuk memperoleh aset perkakasan HAPPYBET tertentu. Proses itu telah dimuktamadkan, dengan pengaturan kontrak telah dibuat dengan rakan kongsi francais yang berkaitan. Sementara itu, Sun Bingo dan operasi B2C lain terjejas oleh langkah-langkah kawal selia dan sekatan pemasaran. Operasi Sun Bingo sedang dalam semakan akibat perubahan cukai perjudian dalam talian di UK. Sehingga 31 Disember 2025, tunai bersih berada pada €28.5 juta, meningkat daripada kedudukan hutang bersih €142.8 juta pada akhir 2024. Aliran tunai bebas berada pada €29.5 juta, menurun daripada €73.1 juta pada FY24. Mor Weizer, Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Playtech, menyifatkan 2025 sebagai tahun "peralihan yang ketara bagi Playtech", berikutan penyiapan penjualan Snaitech. Beliau menambah: "AS menyampaikan prestasi yang sangat kukuh, dengan hasil hampir dua kali ganda apabila momentum meningkat di seluruh perkongsian kami. Kami mencapai beberapa pencapaian strategik penting, berkembang ke negeri iGaming tambahan dan terus mengembangkan tawaran Langsung kami." "Kedudukan kami di Amerika Latin juga diperkukuh, disokong oleh perjanjian yang disemak semula dengan Caliente, yang berprestasi baik dan meningkatkan lagi kedudukan kami di Mexico. "Momentum kukuh yang kami lihat pada tahun 2025 telah berlanjutan ke awal tahun 2026, terutamanya di Amerika. Kami kekal yakin dalam mencapai sasaran jangka sederhana kami yang bercita-cita tinggi dan melihat peluang menarik untuk Kumpulan di seluruh pasaran kami." Artikel ini disediakan oleh penyedia kandungan pihak ketiga. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) tidak memberikan sebarang jaminan atau representasi berkaitan kandungannya. Kategori: Berita Terkini, Kemas Kini Umum AsiaGameHub menyediakan perkhidmatan pengedaran iGaming yang disasarkan untuk syarikat dan organisasi, dengan menghubungkan lebih daripada 3,000 media premium di Asia serta lebih 80,000 influencer khusus. Ia berfungsi sebagai jambatan utama untuk pengedaran kandungan iGaming, kasino, dan eSports di seluruh rantau ASEAN.

Kenneth Morton, Group Chief Financial Officer at Allwyn International, firmly asserts that no competitor can rival the company's history of generating cash, especially following the completion of the OPAP merger this week. (AsiaGameHub) - The leadership of Allwyn International is convinced it has developed the most compelling investment proposition in the worldwide gambling sector, having become a publicly traded entity through its merger with OPAP. As of market close on Tuesday, March 24, Allwyn was operating as the globe's second-biggest lotteries and gaming firm, solidifying its standing among the premier publicly listed gambling companies. This deal will bring together Allwyn International and OPAP, the established operator of Greece's national lottery and retail betting network – representing the conclusion of a half-year strategic initiative to redefine the group's financial and corporate profile. Generating value within a transformed Allwyn Fundamentally, the updated Allwyn identity is characterized by its ability to generate cash, its extensive scale, and its operational consistency, all while strengthening its role as a major benefactor to charitable initiatives across its operational regions. Nevertheless, for Group CFO, Kenneth Morton, who provided an exclusive interview to SBC News after the merger's completion, the narrative goes far beyond mere size, encompassing elements of trust, distinctiveness, and enduring value generation. “We are not newcomers to this sector,” Morton stated, highlighting Allwyn’s long-standing collaboration with Athens-listed OPAP. “OPAP's investors are already familiar with our achievements. Overall shareholder returns have surpassed 500% since 2013.” Kenneth Morton, Allwyn CFO – Source: Allwyn He further noted that this strong performance stems from rigorous execution, which includes a twofold increase in OPAP’s EBITDA over the last half-decade. Significantly, this proven history has fostered substantial investor confidence in the recently merged entity, evidenced by over 93% of OPAP shareholders maintaining their investments. “We have generated considerable wealth for them – and that reputation is vital as we present the Allwyn narrative worldwide,” he remarked. Reimagining the lottery concept Morton has characterized Allwyn as a unique entity, standing apart from other publicly traded gambling firms. Originating in the Czech Republic with SAZKA, the group has developed into what he terms a singular presence within the industry – an operator that has successfully established a novel category by expanding and updating the lottery framework across various territories. “Our business is quite distinct,” he commented. “We have constructed something previously non-existent – a large-scale, lottery-focused platform.” This distinctiveness stems from a blend of robust retail presence, advanced digital capabilities, proprietary technological solutions, and growing content integration. The collective goal is to broaden the appeal of lotteries within today's entertainment environment. A core element of Allwyn’s investment argument is its capacity to provide both expansion and returns for shareholders – a equilibrium that Morton contended is unparalleled in the industry. He added: “Since 2019, we have virtually trebled the business's size across all key indicators. Concurrently, we have produced substantial cash flow and distributed considerable dividends.” According to Morton, this dual achievement reinforces Allwyn’s attractiveness in equity markets: “That represents a truly persuasive and appealing offer.” During his discussion with SBC, he characterized the company as an uncommon instance of a gaming enterprise that can expand its operations while simultaneously upholding financial prudence and providing steady returns. Diversification as a core strength Diversification stands as another key advantage of Allwyn’s updated PLC structure, especially pertinent amidst unpredictable and fluctuating market environments. “Among gaming stocks, we are among the most diversified,” Morton stated. “This is a significant benefit – both for mitigating risks and for future growth opportunities.” In contrast to operators with heavy reliance on individual markets or product categories, Allwyn’s multi-market, multi-channel framework offers a more stable earnings foundation while allowing agility to pursue fresh expansion prospects. The transformed Allwyn Moving forward, the company's aspirations reach far beyond Europe. Although OPAP and other European assets form a solid base, Morton pinpointed North America as a crucial strategic area for the operator, in addition to developing prospects in South America. He elaborated: “The gaming industry is seeing growing returns to scale. Competition is no longer solely against other betting providers – it's for consumers' time and finances against the broader global entertainment sector.” Within this landscape, triumph hinges on scale, technology, content, and brand – domains where Allwyn is assured it has already forged a substantial competitive edge. Notwithstanding the magnitude of the merger, Morton emphasized that the company's leadership perceives this transaction not as a conclusion, but as the commencement of a fresh chapter. “This is likely the most thrilling transaction we have undertaken,” he stated. “It positions us at a truly promising juncture in the group's evolution.” Allwyn’s attention now turns to implementing its subsequent phase of expansion. “We have established a robust foundation,” Morton concluded. “The objective now is to elevate the business to its next stage.” 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) - Banijay Group has outlined an ambitious growth strategy to achieve €10bn (£8.65bn) in revenue by 2029, following two major transactions. The France-headquartered entertainment conglomerate confirmed that its acquisition of Tipico Group and the merger of Banijay Entertainment with All3Media will reshape its business portfolio across content, live events, and gaming. Both transactions are anticipated to conclude in 2026, pending regulatory approvals. On a pro forma basis, the expanded group is projected to generate approximately €7.4bn in revenue, €1.6bn in adjusted EBITDA, and €1.2bn in adjusted free cash flow. Chief Executive Officer François Riahi characterized the company’s recent advancements as a “step-change” in its positioning. “With a significantly strengthened platform spanning content, live, and gaming, we are constructing an unmatched global entertainment powerhouse, ideally positioned to seize long-term industry growth and consolidation opportunities,” he stated. “The signing of these two transformative deals marks a pivotal step in our development. We are transitioning to a stronger, more robust, and cash-generative platform. “Building upon this momentum, our revised outlook reflects both the strength of our platform and our confidence in delivering sustained growth, strong cash generation, and long-term value creation for our shareholders. By 2029, driven solely by organic growth, we will be a roughly €10bn revenue group.” Banijay’s gaming focus Gaming will occupy a central role in the new structure, making up over half of the group’s EBITDA, propelled by the integration of Tipico. The company will merge its Betclic brand—one of the most prominent in its home market—with Germany’s Tipico, forming a company projected to generate over €3bn in revenue. Banijay anticipates robust growth across both core divisions – Banijay Gaming and Banijay Entertainment – by 2029. The gaming business is projected to grow at approximately 10% annually, while the entertainment segment is expected to achieve steady mid-single-digit growth. Overall, the group aims for over 7% annual EBITDA growth, along with double-digit earnings per share growth. This strategy reflects a broader shift toward integrating content and betting, enabling Banijay to monetize its intellectual property across various channels, such as digital and live experiences. A recent media expansion Tipico anticipates generating approximately €100m in synergies over time, while the All3Media merger is projected to add an additional €50m within the first year post-completion. The latter transaction was announced just at the beginning of this month—only days before it published its full annual results. Banijay and RedBird IMI have agreed to merge the London-based business with Banijay Entertainment in a 50-50 joint venture. This is poised to create one of the world’s largest independent content producers, as evidenced by the figures it would have hypothetically generated in 2024. On a pro forma basis, the combined group would have generated over €4.4bn in revenue and €690m in adjusted EBITDA. In addition to growth, the group is indicating a focus on shareholder returns, with plans to gradually increase dividends over the next four years. It also plans to distribute a €400m special dividend upon completion of the All3Media transaction, subject to shareholder approval. Looking forward, Banijay’s strategy centers on three priorities: organic growth, unlocking synergies across its expanded operations, and selective acquisitions. The company also intends to invest in AI and technology to drive product innovation and enhance user engagement. Plans in a heavily regulated jurisdiction Banijay stated that its 2026 guidance is largely aligned with its longer-term targets, with mid-to-high single-digit EBITDA growth anticipated, though this will be marginally lower following the impact of tax hikes in France. Retail sports betting taxes in France have risen to 42.1%, online sports betting taxes from 54.9% to 59.3%, and online poker is now taxed at 10% of GGR (up from 0.2% of stakes). There have also been discussions about regulating online casinos, which would presumably also face heavy taxation. Banijay’s revenue increased by 10% to €1.59bn in 2025, and while this remains an impressive figure compared to some, the company still has a distance to cover to reach the 11-digit mark, especially amid these headwinds. However, with the ongoing integration of Tipico and All3Media, it has further diversified and believes it is now better positioned to navigate the ever-evolving industry and deliver growth over the coming years. 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 horse racing industry has voiced its disapproval following Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross’ confirmation that the Horserace Betting Levy will not be increased. Labour Minister Ian Murray delivered the update to the House of Commons on the Baroness's behalf, noting that the decision reflects racing's vital role in the UK's economy and sporting heritage. Consequently, horse racing remains the sole sport benefiting from a government-enforced levy, set at 10% of the annual gross profits for bookmakers earning over £500,000 from British racing wagers. These funds are overseen by the Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) to support breeding, scientific research, and veterinary training. The levy generated £108m in 2025, an increase from the £105m recorded in 2024. Baroness Twycross identified two primary factors for maintaining the current rate, starting with the broader gambling tax adjustments outlined in the 2025 Autumn Budget. Chancellor Rachel Reeves previously revealed that Remote Gaming Duty will jump from 21% to 40% this April, while General Betting Duty (GBD) is set to rise from 15% to 25% in April 2027. While these hikes impact online operators, British horse racing is excluded from the GBD increase, keeping its rate at 15% alongside the existing 10% racing levy. Additionally, the government declined to expand the levy to include international racing, keeping the focus strictly on domestic British events. Officials argued that the current levy, combined with commercial prospects, ensures a sufficiently strong future for the relationship between the betting and racing sectors. The announcement referenced findings from a review initiated by the previous administration, which concluded in April 2024. “The Government remains a firm supporter of racing. We back efforts to modernize governance, update the fixture calendar, and enhance horse welfare,” stated Baroness Twycross, adding that they will continue collaborating with the BHA and other stakeholders. BHA expresses opposition The British Horseracing Authority (BHA), the sport's governing body, has made its frustration with the decision very clear. BHA CEO Brant Dunshea criticized both the duration and the conclusion of the process, stating it was disappointing that a three-year review resulted in no change to the rate. Dunshea noted that the industry participated in discussions in good faith, providing evidence of the widening gap between the costs of staging races and the revenue received from betting. He also suggested a shift in the government's position, pointing out that the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) appears to have moved away from its earlier stance. Prior to the Budget, the DCMS had cautioned the Treasury that racing would see little benefit from a tax carve-out unless it was paired with a levy increase. Dunshea questioned why the DCMS now considers a rate change unnecessary just months after that warning. He warned that the industry faces significant challenges, including post-pandemic attendance issues, a stagnant levy, and the implementation of affordability checks from the Gambling Act Review White Paper. He suggested that if the government refuses to raise the levy, it should at least halt the introduction of affordability checks that could jeopardize the sport's financial future. The BHA also disputed the government's perspective on returns, claiming the sport receives less than 3% from the gambling sector, compared to 7.7% in France and 8.4% in Ireland. This decision may further strain the link between racing and betting, which was already under pressure during last year's tax debates, despite the BHA's ongoing cooperation with firms like Flutter Entertainment. Internal friction is also reportedly rising among major stakeholders like the BHA, the Jockey Club, Arena Racecourse Company (ARC), and the Racecourse Association (RCA) regarding the sport's strategic direction. 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) - Digital sports media group Better Collective has appointed Thomas Plenborg as its new Board Chair, as the company revamps its international strategy. The company confirmed that Plenborg will replace Jens Bager as Board Chair, after Bager decided not to pursue re-election following more than a decade in the position. Better Collective recognized the 'critical role' the incoming Chair has already served in its corporate evolution, as the company has broadened its presence from Europe to North and South America. New horizons Established in 2004 and based in Copenhagen, Better Collective has grown into one of the largest digital sports media companies specializing in the betting industry and runs one of the sector's largest affiliate networks. The company has established a strong position in key regional iGaming markets, including Latin America through its 2024 purchase of Playmaker Capital. It also participates in other aspects of the iGaming ecosystem, such as responsible gambling through its Mindway AI subsidiary. "We are delighted to welcome Thomas Plenborg as our new Chair," stated Jesper Søgaard, Co-founder and Co-CEO of Better Collective. "Having collaborated with him on the Board for the past year, we have already gained from his extensive financial and strategic expertise. "His background with world-class companies will be extremely valuable as we continue striving to become the premier digital sports media group." Plenborg assumes the board leadership position as Better Collective prepares to enter another sector—the rapidly growing, though controversial, predictions market space. The company intends to utilize its US-focused brands such as Action Network and VegasInsider. This potential new revenue source follows the release of its Q4 and FY25 financial results in February, which showed a minor decline in annual revenue. Plenborg commented: "I want to thank Jens for his leadership and long-term dedication to Better Collective. He has been instrumental in establishing the governance, strategic vision, and growth trajectory over the last ten years. "I now anticipate collaborating closely with the management team and fellow Board members to further develop Better Collective for the benefit of all stakeholders, including customers, partners, employees, and shareholders." 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) - Alberta mungkin telah memberikan petunjuk jelas pertama mengenai jangka masa pelancaran pasaran iGamingnya yang dikawal selia. Pengawal selia pasaran, Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis (AGLC), telah menerbitkan dokumen panduan iGaming yang merangkumi tempoh peralihan, menawarkan butiran kepada pengendali komersial yang berminat untuk mendapatkan lesen untuk wilayah itu. Maklumat yang dipaparkan dalam dokumen mengenai jangkaan untuk pengendali pasaran yang tidak dikawal selia menjelang peralihan termasuk bahawa permohonan mesti dikemukakan, yuran pendaftaran yang berkenaan mesti dibayar dan aktiviti yang tidak dikawal selia mesti dihentikan menjelang 13 Julai. AGLC berkata: “Mana-mana pengendali, atau entiti yang berkaitan dengannya, yang mengendalikan atau pernah mengendalikan skim loteri yang tidak dikawal selia di Alberta mesti mengemukakan permohonan yang lengkap dan membayar semua yuran pendaftaran yang berkenaan kepada AGLC selewat-lewatnya 13 Julai 2026. Selain itu, pengendali juga mesti menghentikan sebarang aktiviti skim loteri yang tidak dikawal selia (iaitu, menerima pertaruhan) menjelang 13 Julai 2026. “AGLC boleh mempertimbangkan lanjutan maksimum tiga bulan (13 Oktober 2026) kepada tarikh ini atas dasar kes demi kes, hanya jika pengendali boleh menunjukkan laluan untuk mematuhi pelancaran pasaran yang tidak dapat dicapai sebelum 13 Julai 2026.” Walaupun ini bukanlah tarikh pelancaran konkrit untuk pasaran iGaming Alberta, ia memberikan industri petunjuk mengenai arah ‘go live’ semasa yang sedang dituju oleh wilayah itu dan pada kelajuan apa. Alberta iGaming Corporation (AiGC) – yang bertanggungjawab untuk perjanjian komersial, anti-pengubahan wang haram (AML), aduan awam dan kewangan serta laporan pendapatan – akan menentukan bila pasaran akan dilancarkan. AGLC menambah bahawa semua aktiviti pasaran yang tidak dikawal selia mesti dihentikan menjelang tarikh ‘go live’ yang diumumkan, sama ada tarikh tersebut selepas 13 Julai atau 13 Oktober tahun ini. Beberapa pengendali telah menyatakan minat untuk memasuki pasaran iGaming yang dikawal selia di Alberta, termasuk Caesars Entertainment. Walau bagaimanapun, walaupun terdapat minat yang kuat, AGLC menyatakan bahawa kurang daripada 10 telah membayar yuran yang diperlukan setakat ini. Ia juga menyatakan bahawa peruntukan pengecualian enam bulan hanya terpakai kepada pembekal iGaming yang telah membayar yuran yang diperlukan dan telah menerima pengesahan bertulis daripada AGLC bahawa permohonan telah diterima. AGLC menyatakan: “Walaupun terdapat minat yang kuat daripada lebih 55 tapak pengendali, hanya 9 tapak yang telah membayar yuran yang diperlukan setakat ini. Perkhidmatan Peraturan sedang memantau pengiklanan dan aktiviti pasaran secara keseluruhan; ketidakpatuhan yang berterusan boleh memberi kesan material kepada penentuan kesesuaian masa depan.” Bagi akaun pemain di tapak yang tidak dikawal selia sebelum ia beralih ke pasaran yang dikawal selia, AGLC menyatakan bahawa semua pertaruhan yang belum selesai mesti diselesaikan atau dibatalkan terlebih dahulu, termasuk menyelesaikan sebarang pertaruhan terbuka, memulangkan baki akaun pemain dan memaklumkan pemain tentang garis masa dan prosedur penutupan akaun. Awal tahun ini, AGLC menerbitkan Piawaian dan Keperluan untuk Permainan Internet, menggariskan komponen utama untuk iGaming di wilayah itu, termasuk yuran lesen, kadar cukai, pengiklanan dan perlindungan pemain. Sebahagian daripada hala tuju iGaming wilayah itu telah diketahui sejak musim bunga tahun lalu, apabila Akta iGaming Alberta diluluskan. Artikel ini disediakan oleh penyedia kandungan pihak ketiga. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) tidak memberikan sebarang jaminan atau representasi berkaitan kandungannya. Kategori: Berita Terkini, Kemas Kini Umum AsiaGameHub menyediakan perkhidmatan pengedaran iGaming yang disasarkan untuk syarikat dan organisasi, dengan menghubungkan lebih daripada 3,000 media premium di Asia serta lebih 80,000 influencer khusus. Ia berfungsi sebagai jambatan utama untuk pengedaran kandungan iGaming, kasino, dan eSports di seluruh rantau ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Care Quality Commission (CQC) telah mendesak pesuruhjaya rawatan perjudian baharu UK untuk memastikan kesinambungan semasa peralihan kepada levi statutori berlangsung. Pertubuhan amal di seluruh National Gambling Support Network dipuji atas kerja mereka dalam menyediakan rawatan yang ‘selamat, berkesan, penyayang, responsif dan diterajui dengan baik’. Walau bagaimanapun, CQC juga mengakui kebimbangan yang dibangkitkan oleh GambleAware bahawa kualiti penjagaan yang berterusan mungkin terjejas apabila pesanan perkhidmatan beralih kepada NHS di bawah model pembiayaan baharu. Laporan itu menyatakan: “Kami akan mendesak pesuruhjaya untuk menyemak penemuan laporan ini untuk memastikan perkhidmatan terus menyediakan penjagaan dengan cara yang serupa supaya orang yang mengalami bahaya perjudian masih menerima penjagaan dan sokongan yang mereka perlukan, dan terdapat pemantauan dan penilaian berterusan terhadap kualiti perkhidmatan.” CQC diminta untuk menjalankan kajian itu oleh Gambling Commission dan GambleAware, dan pemeriksaan itu dijalankan antara Mei 2025 dan Mac 2026. 14 pertubuhan amal yang dikaji ialah EPIC Restart Foundation, ARA Recovery For All, NECA, Gordon Moody, Beacon Counselling Trust, Primary Care Gambling Service, Aquarius, GamCare, GamCare Helpline, Adferiad, RCA Trust (Scotland), Betknowmore UK, Breakeven dan Reframe Coaching. Penemuan memperincikan bahawa orang yang mengalami bahaya perjudian ‘dapat mengakses perkhidmatan apabila mereka memerlukannya, dan menerima rawatan dan sokongan berpusatkan individu yang memenuhi keperluan mereka’. Kebimbangan yang telah lama terbuku CQC hanyalah organisasi terbaharu yang menyoroti kebimbangan bahawa peralihan pembiayaan akan melambatkan kemajuan dalam rawatan apabila NHS menjadi pentadbir utama rawatan, dan perkhidmatan dibahagikan di seluruh England, Scotland dan Wales. GambleAware menyatakan dalam laporan legasinya sebelum penutupannya pada 31 Mac: “Terdapat kebimbangan bahawa perbezaan dalam kapasiti tempatan boleh bermakna kualiti perkhidmatan berbeza dari satu tempat ke tempat lain. Tanpa tindakan yang disengajakan, risiko ini boleh mengikis kemajuan yang dibuat dalam pencegahan, intervensi awal, dan kesaksamaan respons.” Kerajaan Wales telah pun menganugerahkan Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board £1.3 juta dalam pembiayaan untuk mengendalikan talian bantuan perjudian untuk penjudi bermasalah di Wales. Walau bagaimanapun, ini akan duduk bersama Talian Bantuan Perjudian Kebangsaan yang lebih dikenali yang dikendalikan oleh GamCare, menimbulkan kebimbangan kekeliruan bagi pemain yang mencari bantuan. GamCare mengesahkan bahawa ia telah menghubungi Menteri Kesihatan Mental dan Kesejahteraan Wales, Sarah Murphy, mengenai keputusan itu dan untuk memahami dengan lebih baik bagaimana hubungan antara kedua-dua perkhidmatan itu akan berfungsi untuk memberikan bantuan kepada mereka yang memerlukan. Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif pertubuhan amal itu, Victoria Corbishley, berkata: “Matlamat bersama mesti untuk meminimumkan sebarang kekeliruan bagi mereka yang menghubungi dalam saat-saat kerentanan. Fokus kami kekal teguh pada orang yang kami layani.” Undi kemerdekaan Organisasi seperti GamCare sedang dalam proses mengetahui tahap pembiayaan yang akan mereka terima daripada £120 juta yang dijana dalam tahun pertama levi statutori – yang memperoleh pendapatan daripada peratusan hasil permainan kasar yang dijana oleh pengendali berlesen UK. Walau bagaimanapun, ketidakpastian mengenai pembiayaan untuk pertubuhan amal yang ditubuhkan telah diburukkan lagi oleh bisikan bahawa organisasi yang mempunyai hubungan terdahulu dengan industri tidak akan dipertimbangkan. Walau bagaimanapun, pendirian ini kelihatan semakin lembut, menurut Duncan Garvie, Pengasas BetBlocker. Bercakap di Illegal Gambling Prevention Summit, beliau berkata: “Secara pragmatik, sentiasa akan ada tahap gangguan. Apa yang saya harap dapat lihat ialah pelembutan pendirian dan mencapai tempat di mana semua pihak berkepentingan boleh dimasukkan dalam perbualan tanpa stigmatisasi.” Sebagai sebahagian daripada kajian ke atas pertubuhan amal sektor ketiga, GamCare mendedahkan bahawa CQC memutuskan tiada bukti bahawa sokongan dan rawatan yang diberikannya dipengaruhi oleh industri perjudian. Curbishley mengalu-alukan komen itu dan menyifatkan dianggap bebas sebagai ‘asas kepada kepercayaan yang diberikan orang kepada kami’. “Penilaian bebas ini adalah jaminan penting untuk pesuruhjaya, rakan kongsi, dan yang paling penting untuk orang yang bergantung pada perkhidmatan kami,” tambahnya. Artikel ini disediakan oleh penyedia kandungan pihak ketiga. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) tidak memberikan sebarang jaminan atau representasi berkaitan kandungannya. Kategori: Berita Terkini, Kemas Kini Umum AsiaGameHub menyediakan perkhidmatan pengedaran iGaming yang disasarkan untuk syarikat dan organisasi, dengan menghubungkan lebih daripada 3,000 media premium di Asia serta lebih 80,000 influencer khusus. Ia berfungsi sebagai jambatan utama untuk pengedaran kandungan iGaming, kasino, dan eSports di seluruh rantau ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - SBC Summit Americas is set to debut a specialized Prediction Markets Forum to analyze one of the most rapidly expanding and discussed segments within the US sports betting landscape. Scheduled for Thursday, June 11, as part of the event's Breakout Stage, the forum will gather operators, legal professionals, and industry analysts to discuss the growth of prediction markets, the entry of sportsbooks into the field, and the regulatory and integrity hurdles ahead. The four-session track will be moderated by Patrick Everson, a sports betting analyst and contributor to FOX Sports. The recent spike in interest for prediction markets is largely linked to the 2024 presidential election, which pushed event contracts into the public spotlight. Since that time, DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics have all taken steps to enter the sector, while platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket are expanding their reach through high-profile athlete endorsements and multi-year league partnerships. However, the industry faces legal uncertainty due to conflicting federal decisions and a surge in state-level enforcement actions and lawsuits from gaming regulators. “Prediction markets are set to be a defining feature of the American market by 2026, though the ambiguity between financial trading and traditional wagering presents significant challenges for the sector,” stated Rasmus Sojmark, CEO and Founder of SBC. “This forum will gather the key figures influencing this space to help the industry understand the road ahead.” The program begins with an introductory session, Prediction Markets 101. Speaker Dan Zucker (President, Zucker Media Group) will explore the evolution of event contracts from 19th-century economic hedging to their current status as a potential billion-dollar industry. He will also explain the mechanics of these markets, the reasons for their rapid growth, and their influence on the modern gambling sector. Over the past 18 months, several prominent US operators have moved into the world of event contracts. In the session "How Sportsbooks Are Entering the World of Event Contracts," experts Dr. Laila Mintas (CEO, Dr. Mintas Consulting), David Huffman (COO, Sporttrade), and Dustin Gouker (Founder, The Closing Line) will discuss the motivations behind these moves and whether state-level partnerships are a vital part of their strategy. The "A Question of Compliance and Integrity" panel will focus on the legal and regulatory hurdles facing US prediction markets. Legal expert Dan Wallach (Partner, Wallach Legal) will analyze the regulatory landscape, ongoing lawsuits from gaming groups and states, and the resulting compliance issues for operators. Looking forward, the "What’s the Future of Futures?" session will consider the long-term effects of prediction markets on the betting industry. Speakers Ilya Beylin (Associate Professor, Seton Hall University School of Law), Robin D Hanson (Associate Professor, George Mason University), and Chris Gerlacher (Senior Political Reporter and Industry Analyst, Prediction News) will discuss potential Supreme Court involvement and the tension between land-based opponents and online sportsbooks seeking to integrate these markets. This subject will also be explored on the Leaders Stage in a panel titled “The Current State of Prediction Markets in the US.” Experts Joshua B. Sterling (Partner, Milbank) and Alex Kane (CEO, Sporttrade) will review the evolution of these markets across North America and the reactions from investors, regulators, and operators to the shifting environment. The Prediction Markets Forum is a key component of the two-day SBC Summit Americas conference. In addition to the Breakout Stage, attendees can explore sessions on sports betting, casino gaming, payments, technology, compliance, affiliation, leadership, and player safety across North and Latin America. Secure Your Entry to SBC Summit Americas: VIP Pass – Priced at $700, providing full access to the conference agenda, expo floor, the Food Festival, and evening networking events. Expo+ Pass: Available for $95, offering access to the expo floor and all conference sessions (excluding evening networking events). Complimentary Operator & Affiliate Passes: Qualified operators and affiliates may apply for free passes for SBC Summit Americas, subject to approval. Apply for Your Complimentary Operator Pass | Apply for Your Complimentary Affiliate Pass. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - SBC Summit Americas is set to launch a dedicated Prediction Markets Forum, which will dive into one of the fastest-growing and most hotly debated verticals within U.S. sports betting. Scheduled for Thursday, 11 June as part of the Breakout Stage, this forum will gather operators, legal experts and industry analysts to look into the growth of prediction markets, the ways sportsbooks are entering this space, and the regulatory and integrity challenges that are defining its future. The four-session lineup will be chaired by Patrick Everson, a sports betting analyst and contributor for FOX Sports. The recent boom in prediction markets can be traced directly to the 2024 presidential election, which pushed event contracts into the mainstream. Since that election, DraftKings, FanDuel and Fanatics have all taken steps to build a presence in this space, while platforms including Kalshi and Polymarket continue to grow in prominence via high-profile athlete sponsorships and multi-year league partnerships. However, a rising tide of lawsuits and enforcement actions from state and gaming regulators, paired with conflicting federal court rulings, has left compliance requirements far from straightforward. “Prediction markets will shape the U.S. market in 2026. But navigating the gray area between financial trading and traditional sports betting is creating tangible uncertainty for this industry,” said Rasmus Sojmark, CEO and founder of SBC. “This forum will bring together the leaders who are building this space to help the sector understand what lies ahead.” The forum will open with the introductory session, Prediction Markets 101. Dan Zucker, President of Zucker Media Group, will walk through how event contracts evolved from 19th-century economic hedging into a potential billion-dollar vertical. Along the way, he will break down how prediction markets actually operate, why their growth has accelerated so rapidly, and what their rise means for today’s gambling landscape. Over the past 18 months, a number of major U.S. operators have expanded into the prediction markets space. During the session, How Sportsbooks Are Entering the World of Event Contracts, experts Dr. Laila Mintas (CEO, Dr. Mintas Consulting), David Huffman (COO, Sporttrade), and Dustin Gouker (Founder, The Closing Line) will analyze how and why the region’s biggest operators are making the move and whether state-by-state partnerships could prove essential in their strategy. The panel, A Question of Compliance and Integrity, will address the regulatory and compliance challenges facing prediction markets in the U.S. Legal specialist Dan Wallach (Partner, Wallach Legal) will examine the regulatory framework governing event contracts and discuss the lawsuits brought by states and land-based gaming groups and the compliance challenges facing operators. Looking ahead, What’s the Future of Futures?, will examine the long-term impact of prediction markets on the betting industry. Speakers Ilya Beylin (Associate Professor, Seton Hall University School of Law), Robin D Hanson (Associate Professor, George Mason University), and Chris Gerlacher (Senior Political Reporter and Industry Analyst, Prediction News) will discuss the potential consequences of Supreme Court scrutiny and what the future may hold for land-based operators opposing prediction markets and online sportsbooks seeking to integrate them. The topic will also be covered on the Leaders Stage during the panel “The Current State of Prediction Markets in the US.” Experts Joshua B. Sterling (Partner, Milbank) and Alex Kane (CEO, Sporttrade) will examine how prediction markets are evolving across North America and how operators, regulators, and investors are responding to the rapidly changing landscape. The Prediction Markets Forum forms part of SBC Summit Americas’ two-day conference programme. Alongside the Breakout Stage, delegates can attend sessions covering sports betting and casino, payments and technology, regulation and compliance, affiliation, leadership, and player protection across North and Latin America. Secure Your Ticket to SBC Summit Americas: VIP Pass – Our VIP Passes are available for just $700. You’ll have access to the full conference agenda, show floor, complimentary food at our Food Festival and our evening networking events! Expo+ Pass: Includes access to the expo floor and all conference sessions (does not include access to evening networking events). Get Your Expo+ Pass at $95. Complimentary Operator & Affiliate Passes: Operators and affiliates can apply for free passes for SBC Summit Americas, subject to approval. Apply for Your Complimentary Operator Pass | Apply for Your Complimentary Affiliate Pass. 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) - BC.Game has named Kar Kheng Giam as its new Chief Executive Officer, entrusting him with the significant responsibility of guiding the crypto betting brand's often-debated strategic direction. Giam, known as "KK," previously held a position at Coyote Bioscience, a biotechnology research firm based in Beijing that focuses on AI, big data, reagents, and system platforms. He served as Vice President – International at the company from 2021 to 2023, followed by a consultancy role from 2023 to 2025. His initial venture into the gaming and entertainment sector occurred in 2012 when he co-founded both Topgame and Tinymobi. These mobile game development firms, based in Beijing and San Francisco, created casino and social games, such as slots-style offerings. This background likely drew the interest of BC.Game, a company focused on crypto and technology. “BC.Game has cultivated a robust global community through the integration of innovative technology and captivating entertainment experiences,” Giam commented. “I am enthusiastic about assuming this position during a period of considerable opportunity for the company. Given the rising demand for transparent, user-centric platforms and the increasing embrace of crypto in online gaming, we are strategically positioned for global expansion. “My primary objective will be to reinforce our presence in regulated markets, improve the platform experience, and consistently foster trust among our users.” Numerous Factors to Address Giam assumes leadership at BC.Game during a pivotal moment for both the nascent and largely unregulated crypto betting sector, as well as for the broader betting and gaming industry. Increased taxation in Europe and Latin America is considerably impacting the conventional, fiat-based betting market. Regulatory landscapes are also evolving, with national bodies such as the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) and the Dutch KSA showing heightened vigilance towards unlicensed activities. Within the UK, BC.Game is primarily recognized for its football sponsorships, notably serving as the official front-of-shirt sponsor for EFL Championship club and 2015/16 Premier League champions Leicester City FC. Nevertheless, the widespread presence of unlicensed betting firms in English football has generated controversy. Companies such as BC.Game pursue partnerships in English football because of its global appeal, supporting their marketing goals in regions like Asia, Africa, and other territories. The UK government, however, appears poised to prohibit unlicensed sponsors from British sports, with a consultation currently underway. This development could potentially conclude BC.Game’s collaboration with Leicester, although it remained uncertain whether the two parties planned to extend their agreement beyond the current season. Furthermore, uncertainties persist regarding BC.Game’s operational framework and long-term viability. The company held a Curaçao license for an extended period, but following a legal disagreement with the local regulator and reports of bankruptcy in 2024, it has since obtained a license from the Indian Ocean island of Anjouan. The appointment of a new CEO, particularly one with Giam's extensive experience in the technology sector, indicates BC.Game's strong confidence in having navigated these challenges successfully. Recently, the company has focused on expanding into Africa, exemplified by securing licenses and sponsorship agreements in Kenya last year. It is also presumably monitoring discussions concerning the potential for regulated crypto betting, for instance in Estonia, with considerable interest. 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 Dutch gambling regulator has once again targeted JOI Gaming, which operates the Jack’s Casino brand. Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) disclosed that it reached out to the company regarding a marketing violation highlighted in an anonymous tip, which alerted the regulator to a Jack’s Casino advertisement appearing on the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC) website. According to the KSA, although the logo placement itself isn't the main problem, JOI Gaming violated regulations because clicking the logo redirected users to the Jack’s Casino online platform. This constitutes a direct breach of the Netherlands' domestic gambling regulations, which forbid both untargeted iGaming advertising and sports sponsorships by online gambling operators. These provisions were launched in July 2025 as part of a broader reform initiative to revise the Remote Gaming Act (KOA), a process that remains ongoing. The legislative changes also prohibit the use of influencers for gambling promotion—a restriction JOI Gaming has previously violated. In December, the company received a €400,000 penalty (£346,000) for an offense from 2023 that occurred during a major motorsports event. On this occasion, the KSA noted that JOI Gaming promptly adhered to the warning by removing the link from the PDC site, which may prevent further regulatory measures. The entire issue could have been prevented had JOI adopted the same approach it uses in unlicensed markets such as the UK. Customers in the UK can freely visit the PDC website, where the Jack’s Casino logo appears in the Partners section. However, since neither Jack’s nor JOI currently holds a license from the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), clicking the logo simply returns users to the PDC website. 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) - Louis Theroux’s penyelidikan mendalam ke dalam ‘manosphere’ dan cara media digunakan di era moden mendedahkan strategi yang amat membimbangkan daripada pengendali tanpa lesen untuk menarik audiens baru di platform mereka. Walaupun majoriti dokumentari Netflix terbarunya memberi tumpuan kepada pandangan empat pengaruh di tengah-tengah gerakan yang membimbangkan itu, beberapa klip yang memaparkan logo syarikat perjudian Stake dan Rainbet digunakan dalam karya itu. Klip dan siaran itu merupakan elemen penting untuk penglibatan pengaruh manosphere, menarik berjuta-juta tontonan daripada audiens yang lebih muda dan mudah terpengaruh di seluruh platform media sosial. Apa yang penting tentang audiens yang mereka tarik adalah bahawa siaran ini merupakan pendedahan pertama mereka kepada perjudian, kerana pasar terkawal melindungi diri daripada lelaki remaja, manakala pasar tanpa lesen bersikap agresif untuk menarik perhatian mereka. HSTIKKYTOKKY just hit a crazy 4x HUGE REDS on ice fishing and wonA CRAZY amount….#stake #hstikkytokky pic.twitter.com/EJN94dBo96 — Soneclip (@soneclips) December 13, 2025 Kedua-dua firma itu terkenal kerana memilih cara untuk meletakkan logo mereka di seluruh media sosial, tanpa mengira kandungan yang ditunjukkan. Tahun lepas, Stake mengesahkan keluarnya dari UK selepas mengambil bahagian dalam aksi yang dirakam di universiti UK oleh aktris filem dewasa Bonnie Blue. Manosphere telah menjadi terkenal sejak beberapa tahun kebelakangan ini kerana tokoh seperti Andrew dan Tristan Tate, Jordan Peterson dan HSTikkyTokky – salah satu protagonis utama dalam dokumentari yang dipersoalkan – telah mendapatkan berjuta-juta pengikut. Di tengah-tengah gerakan ini, dan saya ragu untuk memanggilnya begitu, terdapat keyakinan yang lebih daripada meragukan tentang peranan lelaki dan wanita dalam masyarakat yang sentiasa disiarkan di media sosial. Apa yang wujud daripada ini sebahagian besarnya adalah pandangan misoginis, perkauman dan homofobik yang diterima pakai oleh penonton muda yang mudah terpengaruh. Louis Theroux: Inside The Manosphere premieres March 11. In his first Netflix feature-length documentary, Louis travels to Miami, New York, and Marbella to meet a network of influencers and content creators at the heart of the Manosphere. pic.twitter.com/qb5vznI1qF— netflix⁷ (@netflix) February 25, 2026 Walaupun begitu, terutamanya di AS, pengaruh dalam manosphere semakin mendekati orbit kuasa. Contohnya, Donald Trump Jr, anak kepada Presiden AS Donald Trump, dan juga Penasihat Strategik untuk Kalshi, telah bergambar dengan Andrew Tate. Fakta bahawa bahkan bahagian perjudian yang paling curam dikaitkan dengan tokoh-tokoh ini sepatutnya menjadi sebab kebimbangan untuk sektor yang lain. Orang yang mengetahui faham bahawa Stake dan Rainbet kedua-duanya merupakan sebahagian daripada pasar hitam, dan apa yang itu maksudkan dari segi perlindungan pemain dan kredibiliti. Walau bagaimanapun, bagi orang biasa yang menonton dokumentari atau melihat kandungan manosphere yang dipaparkan di media sosial, mereka hanya melihat perjudian sebagai sebahagian daripada gerakan itu. Penyelidikan di pelbagai wilayah menunjukkan bahawa pengguna pasar hitam selalunya tidak tahu mereka telah tersasar daripada sektor yang berlesen. Ini menunjukkan bahawa audiens sasaran pengendali tanpa lesen tidak lagi semata-mata yang paling terdedah dalam masyarakat, tetapi mereka bertujuan untuk memastikan pengalaman pertama perjudian bagi ramai orang adalah melalui platform tanpa lesen. Ini menunjukkan isu sebenar, kerana ia berpotensi menunjukkan peralihan dalam budaya perjudian untuk generasi akan datang. Semasa industri perjudian terkawal terus mengalami serangan hebat daripada aktivis dan penggubal undang-undang kerana reputasinya, sekarang adalah masanya sektor berlesen harus berdiri tegak dan menyuarakan manfaat pasar terkawal dengan lantang. Industri ini sering bercakap tentang menangani masalah pasar hitam, terutamanya apabila beban kewangan menjalankan perniagaan terus meningkat, namun setakat ini sedikit tindakan yang diambil. Jika pemain tidak tahu wujudnya pasar hitam, bagaimana mereka boleh bermain peranan untuk memastikan tinggal dalam batas undang-undang? Menjadi sebahagian daripada pasar yang bercredibiliti dan berlesen sepatutnya menjadi tanda kehormatan untuk pengendali, dan semasa garis antara sektor sah dan haram terus kabur, kini terletak pada mereka yang mempunyai lesen untuk mendidik massa. Artikel ini disediakan oleh penyedia kandungan pihak ketiga. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) tidak memberikan sebarang jaminan atau representasi berkaitan kandungannya. Kategori: Berita Terkini, Kemas Kini Umum AsiaGameHub menyediakan perkhidmatan pengedaran iGaming yang disasarkan untuk syarikat dan organisasi, dengan menghubungkan lebih daripada 3,000 media premium di Asia serta lebih 80,000 influencer khusus. Ia berfungsi sebagai jambatan utama untuk pengedaran kandungan iGaming, kasino, dan eSports di seluruh rantau ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Grupo Codere dilaporkan telah melantik Jefferies dan Macquarie Capital untuk memberi nasihat mengenai potensi penjualan syarikat tersebut pada harga $2.3 bilion. Akhbar perniagaan Sepanyol, Expansion, melalui Reuters, melaporkan pada hari Rabu bahawa walaupun penjualan tersebut masih di peringkat awal, bidaan indikatif perlu dihantar menjelang pertengahan Mei, dengan tawaran mengikat dijangka pada awal Julai. Urus niaga tersebut kemudiannya disasarkan untuk dimuktamadkan sebelum Ogos. iGaming Expert telah menghubungi Codere untuk mendapatkan komen mengenai laporan penjualan tersebut serta pelantikan Jefferies dan Macquarie Capital sebagai penasihat. Codere mempunyai operasi berasaskan darat dan iGaming di seluruh Eropah dan Amerika Latin dalam pasaran terkawal Sepanyol, Itali, Argentina, Mexico, Panama, Colombia dan Uruguay. Laporan itu juga menyebut bahawa urus niaga tersebut akan merangkumi operasi digital kumpulan itu, iaitu Codere Online. Pengendali tersebut dimiliki oleh kira-kira 84 dana pelaburan, dengan Davidson Kempner menjadi pemegang saham terbesar dengan pegangan sebanyak 13.3%. Struktur pemilikan ini telah wujud sejak 2024, apabila perjanjian hutang-untuk-ekuiti mengambil alih kawalan Codere daripada keluarga pengasas Martinez Sampedro. Ia merupakan 12 bulan yang penuh pergolakan bagi Codere, selepas operasi dalam taliannya menghadapi potensi penyahsenaraian daripada Nasdaq Stock Market pada Mei tahun lalu setelah gagal memfailkan Borang 20-F bagi tahun berakhir 31 Disember 2024 tepat pada masanya. Pada bulan berikutnya, selepas memenuhi syarat penyenaraian bursa saham tersebut, Codere Online berjaya mendapatkan semula pematuhan dengan Nasdaq selepas memfailkan borang yang diperlukan dengan US Securities and Exchange Commission. Bagi suku keempat 2025, Codere Online melaporkan peningkatan hasil sebanyak 15% daripada €52.7 juta kepada €60.7 juta, serta peningkatan suku tahunan dan tahunan dalam jumlah pemain aktif, naik 13% bagi keseluruhan tahun 2025 dan 20% pada S4. Aviv Sher, Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Codere Online, berkata: “Pada suku keempat 2025, hasil permainan bersih kami mencecah €60.7 juta, menandakan angka suku tahunan tertinggi dalam sejarah syarikat. “Peningkatan ini kebanyakannya didorong oleh Mexico, di mana hasil permainan bersih kami berkembang 31% hasil daripada peningkatan 43% dalam portfolio pelanggan aktif kami di negara tersebut. Pada bulan Disember, kami mencapai rekod 100,000 pemain aktif di negara itu, meletakkan kami dalam kedudukan yang baik untuk Piala Dunia yang akan datang pada musim panas ini.” Codere Online menjangkakan hasil permainan bersih sebanyak €235 juta-€245 juta dan EBITDA diselaraskan sebanyak €15 juta-€20 juta pada akhir tahun 2026. Artikel ini disediakan oleh penyedia kandungan pihak ketiga. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) tidak memberikan sebarang jaminan atau representasi berkaitan kandungannya. Kategori: Berita Terkini, Kemas Kini Umum AsiaGameHub menyediakan perkhidmatan pengedaran iGaming yang disasarkan untuk syarikat dan organisasi, dengan menghubungkan lebih daripada 3,000 media premium di Asia serta lebih 80,000 influencer khusus. Ia berfungsi sebagai jambatan utama untuk pengedaran kandungan iGaming, kasino, dan eSports di seluruh rantau ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Ketika AI terus membentuk semula landskap perisian, beberapa suara dalam sektor teknologi mula mempersoalkan sama ada platform SaaS menjadi boleh ditukar ganti. Jika kod boleh dijana dengan sangat pantas, pemikiran itu berbunyi, mungkin platform hanyalah produk yang boleh dihasilkan semula sesuka hati. Walau bagaimanapun, dalam iGaming, di mana sistem beroperasi dalam persekitaran wang sebenar yang dikawal selia, platform membawa tanggungjawab yang jauh melangkaui kod itu sendiri. Daniel Heywood, Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif di NuxGame, berkongsi visinya mengenai subjek tersebut. Berdasarkan pengalaman NuxGame sebagai penyedia perisian iGaming, beliau membincangkan apa yang benar-benar membezakan platform matang dalam industri – pengalaman operasi bertahun-tahun, kepakaran industri yang mendalam, dan hubungan yang kukuh di seluruh ekosistem iGaming. Pakar iGaming: Banyak perdebatan semasa mengenai AI dan perisian mengandaikan bahawa platform SaaS hanyalah koleksi kod yang mudah dihasilkan semula. Adakah salah untuk menganggap platform SaaS dalam iGaming sebagai produk perisian yang boleh ditukar ganti? Daniel Heywood: Ya, ia adalah salah kerana dalam iGaming kod hanyalah lapisan yang kelihatan. Kekuatan sebenar platform SaaS datang daripada seni bina operasi di belakangnya. Platform iGaming yang serius mengandungi ribuan peraturan perniagaan: bagaimana pembayaran berfungsi di bawah beban, bagaimana peningkatan KYC dikendalikan di tengah sesi, bagaimana isyarat penipuan berinteraksi dengan mekanik bonus, dan bagaimana pengawal selia menjangkakan pelaporan distrukturkan. Di NuxGame, sebagai contoh, sistem pembayaran, pemeriksaan pematuhan, dan kawalan perlindungan pemain diintegrasikan dengan rapat. Sekiranya berlaku aktiviti luar biasa, platform boleh mencetuskan pengesahan tambahan, menyesuaikan parameter risiko, serta merekodkan maklumat pematuhan yang relevan. Tahap koordinasi itu bukanlah sesuatu yang anda cipta semula hanya dengan membangunkan perisian baharu. Anda melihat corak yang sama dalam fintech. Banyak syarikat kini boleh membina aplikasi pembayaran dengan alat AI, tetapi sangat sedikit yang boleh menjalankan infrastruktur yang patuh yang memenuhi kehendak pengawal selia dan bank. Fikirkan SaaS dalam industri yang dikawal selia seperti menara kawalan lapangan terbang. Sesiapa sahaja boleh membeli kapal terbang. Bahagian kritikal adalah sistem kawalan yang memastikan ia mendarat dengan selamat. iGX: Jika teknologi boleh dijana dengan cepat, mengapa pengalaman platform iGaming peringkat tinggi begitu sukar untuk ditiru? DH: Platform iGaming sentiasa berurusan dengan kelewatan pembayaran, tingkah laku pemain yang luar biasa, kemas kini peraturan, atau lonjakan trafik secara tiba-tiba. Setiap halangan ini memaksa sistem untuk menyesuaikan diri. Lama kelamaan, penyesuaian tersebut menjadi sebahagian daripada pengetahuan operasi yang tertanam dalam platform. Di NuxGame, sebagai contoh, ciri-ciri seperti mata kesetiaan, tahap tier, papan pendahulu, pertempuran PvP, dan Roda Putaran dibentuk oleh tingkah laku pemain sebenar di pasaran langsung. Pengendali mengkonfigurasi alat ini untuk menstrukturkan kemajuan pemain, memberi ganjaran aktiviti, dan memperkenalkan dinamik persaingan. Apabila sistem ini berjalan dalam persekitaran permainan langsung, ia menangkap data tingkah laku yang berterusan. Maklum balas berterusan ini secara beransur-ansur mendedahkan mekanik penglibatan mana yang mengekalkan sesi yang lebih lama dan lawatan berulang – pandangan yang hanya muncul melalui operasi platform sebenar. Ringkasnya, perisian boleh ditulis dalam beberapa bulan; kematangan operasi diperoleh melalui bertahun-tahun menjalankan platform wang sebenar dengan jayanya. Dan itu adalah pelaburan yang jauh lebih lama daripada melancarkan ciri baharu. iGX: Menjalankan platform iGaming melibatkan koordinasi berterusan dengan penyedia pembayaran, pengawal selia, dan rakan kongsi teknologi. Sejauh mana pentingnya hubungan yang kukuh dan kepakaran industri dalam memastikan operasi tersebut stabil? DH: Hubungan yang kukuh dan kepakaran industri adalah penting kerana menguruskan platform iGaming jarang sekali merupakan latihan teknikal semata-mata. Kesilapan kecil boleh dengan cepat menjadi mahal di pasaran yang dikawal selia. Salah faham peraturan boleh melambatkan pelancaran. Integrasi pembayaran yang tidak diurus dengan baik boleh mengganggu deposit. Memasuki bidang kuasa baharu tanpa pengetahuan tempatan boleh dengan mudah menimbulkan perangkap pematuhan yang melambatkan pelancaran pengendali. Di sinilah penyedia platform berpengalaman menjadi rakan kongsi operasi. Kami bekerjasama rapat dengan pelanggan pengendali kami untuk menangani cabaran perniagaan ini dalam ekosistem platform NuxGame. Ia boleh melibatkan, sebagai contoh, menyelaraskan integrasi dengan penyedia pembayaran dan menyediakan platform untuk jangkaan peraturan sebelum memasuki pasaran baharu. Secara kiasan, hubungan yang kukuh adalah minyak dalam mesin iGaming yang kompleks. Apabila industri berjalan pada kelajuan penuh (seperti yang biasa berlaku), kurang rintangan bermakna kurang kerosakan dan kejutan yang jauh lebih sedikit. Itu adalah sesuatu, secara jujurnya, tiada kod boleh capai dengan sendirinya. iGX: Apabila pengendali menilai platform, perbincangan sering tertumpu pada ciri dan integrasi. Dalam praktiknya, apakah cabaran operasi yang harus diselesaikan oleh platform iGaming yang matang untuk pengendali? DH: Platform iGaming yang matang harus menyelesaikan cabaran praktikal yang perlu dihadapi oleh pengendali setiap hari (berbanding hanya menyediakan ciri perisian). Pembayaran adalah contoh yang baik. Pengendali memerlukan deposit dan pengeluaran untuk berjalan dengan lancar dengan pelbagai penyedia dan mata wang. Apabila penyedia melambatkan atau gagal, platform mesti mengalihkan trafik dan memastikan transaksi terus berjalan. Waktu operasi adalah keutamaan lain. Platform perlu kekal stabil semasa acara sukan utama atau kempen pemasaran besar supaya pengguna boleh terus bermain tanpa gangguan. Pematuhan dan pelancaran pasaran sama pentingnya. Memasuki bidang kuasa baharu sering bermakna menyesuaikan format pelaporan, alat permainan yang bertanggungjawab, dan tetapan peraturan sebelum pemain pertama log masuk. Di NuxGame, kami sentiasa membantu jenama iGaming bersedia untuk pelancaran ini sambil mengekalkan kestabilan harian. Anda melihat prinsip yang sama dalam industri seperti telekomunikasi atau logistik: selain daripada hanya menyampaikan teknologi, penyedia infrastruktur memastikan keseluruhan sistem berjalan. Penyedia platform dalam iGaming berfungsi dengan cara yang sama – sebagai rakan kongsi operasi. Pada akhirnya, kejayaan dalam B2B iGaming bergantung pada penyelesaian masalah operasi sebenar. Dan itulah sebabnya nilai sebenar platform SaaS terletak pada logik perniagaan, kepakaran, dan hubungan – tidak pernah pada kod semata-mata. Artikel ini disediakan oleh penyedia kandungan pihak ketiga. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) tidak memberikan sebarang jaminan atau representasi berkaitan kandungannya. Kategori: Berita Terkini, Kemas Kini Umum AsiaGameHub menyediakan perkhidmatan pengedaran iGaming yang disasarkan untuk syarikat dan organisasi, dengan menghubungkan lebih daripada 3,000 media premium di Asia serta lebih 80,000 influencer khusus. Ia berfungsi sebagai jambatan utama untuk pengedaran kandungan iGaming, kasino, dan eSports di seluruh rantau ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Spain-headquartered gambling giant Codere is reportedly poised for an impending sale that could value the company at more than €2bn (£1.73bn). Per Spanish publication EXPANSIÓN, the firm has engaged financial advisors Jefferies and Macquarie as it readies for a transaction in the coming weeks. Codere Online success may attract suitors The Codere deal, involving Spain’s second-largest industry player behind Cirsa, would encompass its expanding Codere Online division. Codere Online has been listed on the Nasdaq stock exchange since 2021 and has encountered notable setbacks, including delisting notices and suspension threats. However, these issues have now been resolved, with the company reporting a 6% year-on-year increase in total 2025 revenue, rising from €212m to €224m (£195.2m). Overall, Codere’s 2024 revenues reached €1.3bn, while adjusted EBITDA stood at €179bn. The business is currently owned by around 84 investment funds, with Davidson Kempner’s 13.3% stake being the only significant holding and the sole one exceeding 10%. It operates across Latin America and Southern Europe, with its home market of Spain, along with Italy, Mexico, and Uruguay, serving as key revenue-contributing markets. Spain to clamp down This development coincides with a period of change in Spain, where Andrés Barragán, Secretary General for Consumer Affairs and Gambling, stated last month that licensed companies in the country should prepare for a year of regulatory changes and new compliance mandates. The country already enforces some of Europe’s strictest regulations, yet gross gambling revenue (GGR) continues to grow, posting a year-on-year increase of over 18% in Q2 2025. A sale of Codere to another gambling group may see it overtake Cirsa and international Spanish operators such as Betway and Entain’s bwin as the market leader—though Cirsa has also made clear that Latin American M&As are a focus for 2026. Regardless, with the 2026 World Cup now on the horizon, a deal of this scale at this time could make a significant impact in Spain’s already affluent but tightly regulated market. SBC News has reached out to Codere for comment. 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 fear of over-regulation and excessive interference is driving players toward the black market, where no responsible gambling safeguards or player protection measures exist. This was the primary conclusion drawn during SBC Media’s latest webinar, ‘Are Latin American Players Actually Safer Today?’, which gathered several industry experts to discuss the current state of player protection in the region. The panel featured: Luis Felipe Maia – Founding Partner, MAIA YOSHIYASU ADVAGADOS. Simon Westbury – Strategic Advisor, 1xBet. Simon Vincze – Head of Sustainable & Safer Gambling, Casino Guru. Alfredo Lazcano – Gaming Lawyer, Lazcano Samano. Is excessive regulation undermining player safety? Latin America finds itself at a crossroads regarding gambling regulation. The region is diverse, containing offshore-grey markets, provincially regulated markets, and fully federal or national regulatory frameworks. However, there are instances of regulatory shifts, such as proposals in Brazil to ban sponsorships and tax increase proposals in both Brazil and Mexico, which are raising concerns among operators. The panel unanimously supported regulated markets and the expansion of new markets across Latin America, yet they highlighted clear warning signs that excessive interference does more harm than good. Maia shared his expertise on Brazil’s framework, stating: “It’s a curve. You reach an optimal point of protection, but once regulation becomes excessive, players become less protected because channeling is damaged.” Vincze acknowledged that over-regulation can be detrimental to players but countered the idea that regulated markets are inherently unsafe. “It would be inappropriate to claim that regulation doesn't make them safer, because at least now they have an option that provides a sufficient safety framework and is overseen by an authority.” Player confusion in Latin America The webinar was hosted in partnership with 1xBet, which commissioned SBC Media to produce the International Player Safety Index series. The third part of the series was recently published, focusing on Latin America, and the webinar sessions provided a platform to debate some of its findings. Simon Westbury, Strategic Advisor at 1xBet, recently spoke in-depth with SBC News about the report's findings, reflecting on the lack of regulatory consistency across Latin America. This supports Westbury’s Three Cs theory: if a market lacks clarity, consistency, or communication, a Big C emerges—confusion. “I believe there is a consistency gap across Latin America. We are not suggesting a one-size-fits-all approach to player protection because every player is different, but player protection must be enshrined in every regulatory environment,” he noted. The theory is also supported by practice. Vincze reflected on research he conducted using Google search analysis in Brazil and Mexico to estimate channelization rates in those markets. Following his analysis over a 30-day period, Vincze cited that 74% of specific casino name keyword searches in Brazil were for offshore sites, while that figure stands at 56% in Mexico. For comparison, the UK is around 20%, Sweden 21%, and Spain 27%. Vincze noted: “I believe this is because there is increasingly more exposure on the internet and social media for unlicensed brands, which can advertise through influencers and strong accounts without real enforcement.” Areas for improvement The positive news is that operators have a variety of tools at their disposal to help keep players safe on-site. KYC measures are the primary step, but others like deposit limits, time limits, and cooling-off periods have also been cited as useful for players globally. However, the panel noted that these tools can create more confusion than benefit if not applied correctly. Lazcano stated: “Safer gambling tools can be difficult to use, and operators don't know how to properly explain their usage to players. In the worst-case scenario, these tools might simply be ignored by players.” Maia cited another Brazilian example where a national self-exclusion list was introduced. However, due to a lack of understanding regarding its purpose, it has resulted in fraud against operators rather than aiding players. He said: “We don’t see the regulator and the government supporting the regulated market. We had people with social benefits banned from playing, and then threats to increase taxation in Brazil. The message this portrays, and the result, is that Brazilian authorities are driving players to the illegal market.” Westbury noted that tools should focus on education and making the experience fun and engaging, rather than being limiting and, in his words, clinical. “I think sometimes we get it wrong as an industry. Some of these tools are intrusive. No one likes going to the doctor or the dentist because of the clinical environment; it’s generally not enjoyable. I think we actually need to focus on education. Players need to be educated about these tools.” Watch the entire session and hear the full range of insights and opinions from the panel here. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Allwyn AG telah melengkapkan gabungan perniagaan Allwyn International AG dan OPAP untuk mewujudkan pengendali loteri dan perjudian tersenarai kedua terbesar, satu perjanjian yang dipercayainya dapat menentukan masa depan industri iGaming. Transaksi tersebut pertama kali diumumkan pada Oktober tahun lepas, mencadangkan transaksi semua saham yang menilai entiti yang terhasil pada nilai ekuiti €16 bilion. Allwyn kini telah menggabungkan perniagaan loteri dan perjudiannya dengan operasi syarikat Greece itu di Greece dan Cyprus, dengan OPAP menukar jenama penggunanya kepada Allwyn. Ia juga membina perkongsian jangka panjang antara kedua-dua pihak, yang bermula pada asalnya pada tahun 2013, apabila KKCG Group mula melabur dalam OPAP. Syarikat itu sudah mengawal 51.8% daripada OPAP sebelum perjanjian semasa ini. Jangkaan untuk syarikat gabungan itu mencapai pertumbuhan dan pulangan pemegang saham termasuk: Kedudukan pasaran yang menerajui merentasi beberapa geografi dan produk. Kepelbagaian mengikut geografi, produk dan saluran. Keupayaan teknologi canggih, kandungan, digital dan inovasi. Profil kewangan yang kukuh dan penjanaan tunai yang berdaya tahan. Fokus perjudian yang bertanggungjawab dan sumbangan kepada tujuan murni. Karel Komarek, Pengasas dan Pengerusi Allwyn dan KKCG, menyatakan: “Hari ini, Allwyn melangkah ke babak baharu – satu babak yang membina momentum yang sedia ada mencirikan perniagaan kami. “Sepanjang 13 tahun yang lalu, kami telah menunjukkan nilai yang signifikan dan mampan yang kami cipta untuk pemegang saham, untuk masyarakat dan melalui pengalaman yang kami sampaikan kepada pemain. Kemajuan itu berasaskan perkongsian, kepercayaan dan komitmen tulen terhadap inovasi. “Allwyn mempunyai potensi luar biasa dalam dunia hiburan pengguna yang berkembang pesat, dan kami mempunyai kejelasan strategik, skala, keupayaan dan cita-cita untuk menentukan masa depan industri ini.” Pemegang saham OPAP meluluskan transaksi tersebut semasa mesyuarat agung luar biasa pada Januari 2026, dengan lebih daripada 93% modal saham OPAP kekal dilaburkan dalam syarikat gabungan itu selepas pelaksanaan terhad hak keluar pemegang saham. “Allwyn mempunyai potensi luar biasa dalam dunia hiburan pengguna yang berkembang pesat, dan kami mempunyai kejelasan strategik, skala, keupayaan dan cita-cita untuk menentukan masa depan industri ini.” Karel Komarek, Pengasas dan Pengerusi Allwyn dan KKCG Allwyn dijangka mempunyai 770,799,070 saham tertunggak, tidak termasuk saham perbendaharaan, sebaik sahaja syarikat melengkapkan pembelian saham daripada pemegang saham yang melaksanakan hak keluar tunai mereka. Daripada saham ini, 22% akan membentuk apungan bebas, dengan baki saham terus dipegang secara tidak langsung oleh KKCG. Allwyn masih mempunyai niat untuk meneruskan penyenaraian tambahan di bursa saham antarabangsa yang lain. Robert Chvatal, CEO Allwyn, menambah: “Ini merupakan pencapaian strategik utama bagi Allwyn, dan kami memulakan perjalanan kami sebagai peneraju global yang tersenarai secara awam dengan platform yang diperkukuh, fleksibiliti kewangan yang dipertingkatkan dan pasukan bertaraf dunia. “Kami sangat yakin bahawa kedudukan pasaran kami yang menerajui, tahap kepelbagaian yang tinggi, dan penjanaan tunai yang kuat meletakkan kami dalam kedudukan yang baik untuk memacu pertumbuhan mampan dan penciptaan nilai berterusan semasa kami melabur dalam inovasi dan peluang masa depan merentasi pasaran kami. “Saya ingin mengucapkan terima kasih kepada pemegang saham, pekerja dan pengawal selia kami atas sokongan mereka semasa kami menyatukan dua organisasi terbaik dalam kelasnya untuk mewujudkan pengendali loteri dan perjudian tersenarai kedua terbesar di peringkat global.” Struktur Allwyn Allwyn berhasrat untuk mengagihkan €0.80 sesaham kepada pemegang saham, berikutan penyelesaian pembelian saham berkaitan hak keluar tunai, dengan pilihan skrip akan tersedia dan butiran lanjut akan diterbitkan tidak lama lagi. Syarikat itu juga menjangkakan untuk berpindah domisili dari Luxembourg ke Switzerland sebelum akhir S2 2026. Komarek akan mempengerusikan Allwyn, dengan Chvatal dan Kenneth Morton meneruskan peranan masing-masing sebagai CEO dan CFO. CEO OPAP Jan Karas dan CFO Pavel Mucha akan terus menerajui operasi OPAP di Greece dan Cyprus. Lembaga pengarah lapan orang itu akan menampilkan enam pengarah Allwyn sedia ada, termasuk Komarek, serta dua pengarah bukan eksekutif bebas yang baru dilantik. Keluar Novibet OPAP bukanlah satu-satunya perjanjian yang sedang dalam perancangan Allwyn, kerana syarikat itu telah menyasarkan untuk memperoleh 51% pegangan dalam Novibet sejak Disember 2024. Walau bagaimanapun, Hellenic Competition Commission membantah perjanjian itu, mengakibatkan syarikat menamatkan transaksi dengan pemilik Novibet, Logflex MT Holding Limited. Syarikat itu berkata: “Walaupun Allwyn dan Logflex MT Holding Limited mengemukakan cadangan yang dipertimbangkan dengan teliti kepada HCC, Allwyn komited untuk hanya meneruskan transaksi yang akan memberikan nilai yang jelas kepada pemegang saham. “Oleh itu, Allwyn dan Logflex MT Holding Limited tidak lagi menjangkakan transaksi yang diumumkan sebelum ini akan diteruskan.” Allwyn juga melengkapkan pemerolehan majoriti PrizePicks di AS pada awal tahun ini, memperoleh 62.3% pegangan majoriti dalam syarikat itu dengan harga kira-kira $1.6 bilion. Artikel ini disediakan oleh penyedia kandungan pihak ketiga. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) tidak memberikan sebarang jaminan atau representasi berkaitan kandungannya. Kategori: Berita Terkini, Kemas Kini Umum AsiaGameHub menyediakan perkhidmatan pengedaran iGaming yang disasarkan untuk syarikat dan organisasi, dengan menghubungkan lebih daripada 3,000 media premium di Asia serta lebih 80,000 influencer khusus. Ia berfungsi sebagai jambatan utama untuk pengedaran kandungan iGaming, kasino, dan eSports di seluruh rantau ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Super Group identifies potential amidst the turmoil as the UK gambling sector prepares for a significant financial impact from the upcoming tax changes scheduled for next week. Neal Menashe, the CEO of Super Group—the parent company of the major international brand Betway—shared his thoughts on the new 40% online gaming tax during a video episode of the iGaming Daily podcast. Menashe aligns with the general consensus among UK betting industry leaders that the tax increases starting in April will be detrimental to both the sector and the broader economy. He argued that excessive taxation prevents profitability, ultimately driving revenue away from regulated markets toward illegal, unlicensed operators. According to Menashe, a balanced tax rate on gross gaming revenues (GGR) should fall between 15% and 25%, which aligns with the current UK rates of 21% for remote gaming and 15% for general betting. While Super Group will be impacted by these changes, Menashe expressed strong confidence that the company will remain resilient and potentially emerge in a stronger competitive position. He noted that Q4 financial reports estimated a $50 million impact in the UK before any mitigation strategies were applied. Menashe expects marketing costs to decrease and operational efficiency to improve, noting that smaller competitors may be forced out of the UK market due to rising costs. He also highlighted that recent investments in their UK product have already resulted in positive performance gains. Africa – The Primary Growth Driver for Super Group Despite the focus on the UK, Africa represents the primary future for Super Group and its Betway brand, a strategy that was in place long before the UK tax adjustments. Betway maintains a dominant presence in South Africa, where the betting industry has become a significant contributor to the national economy according to government data. Menashe revealed that Africa accounts for roughly 40% of Super Group’s total revenue, with the total addressable market (TAM) for African iGaming projected to reach $11 billion by 2025 and $22 billion by 2030. He attributed this expansion to factors like population growth and increased smartphone and mobile money usage, noting that South Africa remains their most established and well-regulated market. While the company has seen strong results in Botswana since its February 2025 launch, it is currently refining its approach in Nigeria to better suit that specific market's mobile-first landscape. Prioritizing Brand and Product Excellence To address Africa's complex payment systems, Super Group has implemented innovative solutions like its own stablecoin and manages over 150 different payment integrations across the continent. Although competition is increasing from firms like Kaizen Gaming, bet365, and Betsson, Super Group remains confident in its market position. Menashe noted that the company has gained valuable insights from its past experiences, including its decision to exit the US market last year. He compared Super Group’s influence in Africa to the dominance of FanDuel and DraftKings in the United States. He concluded by emphasizing that long-term success depends on the combination of a powerful brand, a superior product, and an efficient back-office infrastructure. 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) - Romania’s gambling regulatory body has requested a criminal probe into an affiliate found diverting consumers to unlicensed gambling platforms. A press statement disclosed that the National Office for Gambling (ONJN) has reached out to the Directorate for the Investigation of Organised Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT), seeking help with the case. The details showed that an affiliate licensed by the ONJN has been serving as a portal to illegal gambling sites, connecting players directly to offshore operators. “The affiliate’s website operates as a commercial middleman that, under specific technical circumstances, steers or redirects users (prospective players) to gambling operators lacking a Romanian license,” the ONJN stated. “These sites are accessible in Romanian, and any Romanian citizen can register an account and make deposits to engage in gambling activities.” A notable detail highlighted by the regulator is that the affiliate website featured a hidden front-end interface, meaning not all users viewed identical content; instead, there was a selective presentation of options promoting customized offers based on the user’s IP address location. The ONJN insists that this technology was deliberately put in place to repeatedly promote unlicensed gambling in Romania by intentionally bypassing regulations. “This practice is not an accidental redirection but a deliberate technical mechanism, crafted to gain improper advantages and evade Romanian laws, with the aim of promoting prohibited or restricted content.” One of the identified illegal websites was a company named NV Casino. An illegal operator with similar initials, Novatech Solutions N.V. Casino, was recently issued a record €24.9m (£21.6m) fine in the Netherlands for comparable violations. Vlad-Cristian Soare, President of the ONJN, remarked: “The ONJN’s mission is to uphold a responsible, legal, and transparent gaming framework, and any mechanism designed to evade the law and expose Romanian consumers to unlicensed platforms poses a direct threat to public interest. “We will continue to take strong action whenever we detect such practices and collaborate with relevant authorities to safeguard both players and market integrity. Those responsible will be held legally accountable.” In recent months, Romania has launched an effort to bolster its gambling market by reducing harm risks and enhancing oversight of licensed operators. Measures to restructure the domestic market that have garnered substantial political backing include increasing the minimum gambling age to 21, restricting gambling advertising, and developing new approaches to self-exclusion. Soare has consistently expressed his dedication to improving Romania’s gambling market since assuming the role of ONJN President in May last year, following a period when the regulator faced significant controversy over nearly a billion euros in uncollected taxes. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Allwyn has concluded its integration with the Greek gaming company OPAP, cementing its status as one of the premier global publicly traded gambling entities in the process. The merger terms were originally established in October. **KKCG**, the Czech investment firm behind Allwyn, has maintained a significant stake in OPAP since 2013. Through this union, Allwyn will list on the Athens Stock Exchange, positioning itself as a dominant force in the Greek market. OPAP manages the Greek national lottery and holds a prominent role in the country's betting and gaming sectors. This move continues Allwyn’s strategic shift, which began with its transition from SAZKA Group in 2022. The firm is evolving into a lottery-focused entertainment provider with interests across various segments. Allwyn anticipates that the OPAP integration will provide market leadership, broader geographic and product reach, enhanced technological and digital assets, a more robust financial foundation, and a heightened commitment to social responsibility and charitable contributions. Robert Chvatal, CEO of Allwyn, remarked: “This represents a pivotal strategic achievement for Allwyn. We embark on our path as a listed global industry leader with a reinforced platform, greater financial agility, and an elite team. “We are confident that our top-tier market positions, extensive diversification, and solid cash flow will enable us to achieve sustainable growth and deliver value as we pursue innovation and new opportunities across our markets. “I want to express gratitude to our shareholders, staff, and regulators for their assistance in uniting these two premier organizations to form the world's second-largest listed lottery and gaming firm.” Allwyn’s path to the Athens exchange Lotteries remain the foundation of Allwyn’s business, with primary assets including the UK National Lottery, the Czech Lottery, the Greek lottery (via OPAP), and the Illinois State Lottery, among others. The company’s presence in sports wagering has grown through KKCG’s involvement with OPAP. It further broadened its sports entertainment footprint last year by acquiring a majority stake in PrizePicks, a US-based daily fantasy sports (DFS) provider that has since expanded into prediction markets. Not every initiative has succeeded. A plan to acquire a controlling interest in Novibet, a prominent Greek betting firm, was abandoned earlier this year following input from the Hellenic Competition Commission (HGC). Despite this, Allwyn remains on solid footing—and with the OPAP merger finalized, the company is unlikely to be impacted by the cancelled Novibet deal. The merged Allwyn-OPAP entity boasts an estimated market capitalization exceeding €11bn (£9.5bn), placing it in the same tier as Entain (owner of Ladbrokes Coral and bwin) and Flutter Entertainment. KKCG will retain 78% of the voting rights in the unified company. Allwyn also intends to issue a dividend of €0.80 (£0.69) per share to its investors. Karel Komarek, Founder and Chairman of both KKCG and Allwyn, stated: “Today marks the start of a new era for Allwyn, building on the momentum that already defines our business. “Over the last 13 years, we have demonstrated the lasting value we generate for stakeholders, society, and players. This success is rooted in collaboration, trust, and a dedication to innovation. “Allwyn possesses immense potential in the changing consumer entertainment landscape, and we have the vision, scale, and drive to shape the industry's future.” 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) - Keputusan untuk memecat penasihat di sebalik kesalahan kertas kerja yang dijangka menelan kos Estonia €4 juta adalah 'tidak dapat dielakkan dan perlu', menurut Pengarah Kanselari Antero Habicht. Kesalahan dalam Akta Cukai Perjudian Estonia pada mulanya membebaskan kasino dalam talian daripada cukai pada 2026 sebelum ditemui pada Januari. Walau bagaimanapun, negeri itu masih akan kehilangan hasil cukai yang berharga kerana kesalahan itu. Awal minggu ini, rangkaian penyiaran Estonia Eesti Rahvusringhääling (ERR) melaporkan bahawa penasihat di sebalik kesalahan itu telah dipecat selepas prosiding disiplin. Pelaporan lanjut kini mendedahkan bahawa Piia Schults, yang sebelum ini tidak dinamakan, merancang untuk memperjuangkan keputusan itu di mahkamah. Dalam respons bertulis terhadap rayuan yang dirancang, Habicht berkata: “Mempertimbangkan semua keadaan, ini adalah tidak dapat dielakkan dan perlu; tidak lagi mungkin untuk meneruskan hubungan berdasarkan kepercayaan. “Berdasarkan maklumat terkini, pegawai itu akan beralih ke mahkamah untuk mempertahankan haknya, dan oleh itu, kami tidak menganggap mungkin untuk memberi komen lanjut secara awam.” Habict sebelum ini memberitahu ERR bahawa keputusan untuk memecat Schults adalah hukuman kerana 'pelanggaran tugas rasmi yang serius' dan pemutusan 'tidak disebabkan semata-mata oleh fakta kesalahan itu, tetapi juga oleh keadaan lain yang berkaitan dengan kes yang muncul semasa prosiding disiplin'. Estonia kini menjalankan pengurangan berperingkat cukai perjudiannya daripada 6% kepada 4% menjelang 2029 dalam usaha untuk meningkatkan pelaburan dalam sektor perjudian negara dan meletakkan dirinya sebagai pesaing kepada negara-negara seperti Malta dan Isle of Man sebagai pusat iGaming di Eropah. Menurut ERR, arahan lima muka surat daripada Riigikogu Kanselari mendedahkan bahawa pegawai itu mengetahui kesalahan itu pada 5 Januari, namun, pihak ketua tidak dimaklumkan tentang kesalahan itu sehingga 12 Januari, apabila berita itu tersebar melalui ERR. Bercakap kepada penerbitan itu, Schults mengakui kesalahan itu 'sememangnya teruk' dan bahawa dia 'sangat terguncang olehnya'. Tetapi dia juga menunjukkan tempoh jawatannya selama 32 tahun sebagai penasihat kepada Jawatankuasa Hal Ehwal Ekonomi dan fakta bahawa ini adalah insiden pertama dalam kerjayanya. Schults juga menafikan dakwaan yang dibuat oleh Habicht dan menggambarkan kes itu sebagai 'perkara nilai'. Dia berkata: “Saya perlu mencabar ini. Mungkin ia juga akan menggalakkan rakan sekerja. Anda tidak boleh memperlakukan seseorang dengan cara ini. Saya akan mencabar ini bagi pihak semua mereka, memikirkan rakan sekerja saya dan masyarakat Estonia. Saya percaya rakyat mempunyai hak untuk mengetahui apa yang berlaku dalam sektor awam. Ini bukan bekas yang berasingan – kita semua tinggal di sini di Estonia kecil, dalam pandangan bersama.” Shults menambah bahawa dia berhubung dengan seorang peguam dan lebih cenderung untuk mencabar pemecatan itu di mahkamah daripada melalui jawatankuasa pertikaian buruh. Artikel ini disediakan oleh penyedia kandungan pihak ketiga. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) tidak memberikan sebarang jaminan atau representasi berkaitan kandungannya. Kategori: Berita Terkini, Kemas Kini Umum AsiaGameHub menyediakan perkhidmatan pengedaran iGaming yang disasarkan untuk syarikat dan organisasi, dengan menghubungkan lebih daripada 3,000 media premium di Asia serta lebih 80,000 influencer khusus. Ia berfungsi sebagai jambatan utama untuk pengedaran kandungan iGaming, kasino, dan eSports di seluruh rantau ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The decision by CyLimit, a cycling-focused web 3 startup, to become the first JONUM operator to submit its regulatory declaration to France’s Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ) has highlighted a company that most industry observers would have anticipated being first in line. Naturally, when discussing web 3, NFTs and fantasy betting, that company is Sorare. However, to date, the former unicorn has yet to submit its own declaration to the nation's gambling regulator. With the JONUM legal framework finally launching in France, SBC-Gaming&Co sought to understand why the leading web 3 fantasy betting firm in the sector wasn't the first to file a regulatory declaration, enabling it to commence operations as swiftly as possible in full compliance with its 'home' country's regulations. A Sorare spokesperson stated that there was "no delay and we are in ongoing and constructive discussions with the ANJ at the moment". The company is also "taking the time to finalise the dossier properly and we will make the JONUM declaration promptly". "Our approach is to ensure that the submission is complete and robust from the outset," they added, "the application file is comprehensive and requires a significant amount of detailed information to be provided". Nevertheless, there are several factors that could be weighing on the minds of Sorare's leadership, and while they aren't directly connected to its French operations, it's inconceivable that the company wouldn't be conscious of them. UK court case The first is a case filed against the company by the UK Gambling Commission, scheduled to begin on 15 June. The commission is suing Sorare for providing what it deems to be illegal gambling products without a licence to UK consumers. A subsequent question for Sorare therefore is: if it declares that it operates as a JONUM company in France (where users purchase cards of football players as NFTs, with their value fluctuating based on the on-pitch performances of the players' teams), could it be concerned that this amounts to admitting it is a real money gambling company? Not at all, says the company: "The JONUM framework should not be interpreted, in any way, as an admission that Sorare operates as a real money gambling company. The JONUM framework is actually recognising the unique nature of our activity and explicitly confirms that it falls outside the scope of gambling regulations. "This clarification provides an essential level of legal certainty, strengthens the confidence of our partners, investors and community, and represents a key step for the sustainable development of our model." EU questions A second issue centres on European legal questions. Claire Pinson-Bessonet, a former ARJEL executive and now a public affairs and gaming lawyer, observed on LinkedIn that the European Commission has asked France how the JONUM framework aligns with the European eCommerce Directive of 2000, which permits the free movement of information services between EU Member States. French lawmakers responded that the legislation fell under "the exemption of 'real money gambling activities' provided for in the eCommerce Directive, which therefore does not apply to JONUM". In other words, the EU directive does not apply to JONUMs because those products fall under the real money gambling exemption, which the directive doesn't cover. "But in that case why did they (France) introduce specific legislation for JONUMs if the French authorities consider them to be games of chance?", added Pinson-Bessonet. Interestingly, that appears to be what the Gambling Commission will attempt to prove in its court case against Sorare in June. SBC-Gaming&Co asked Pinson-Bessonet if the EC enquiry about the eCommerce Directive suggests France considers that JONUMs are covered by the gambling exemption. "Yes it is," she said, "hence the line between JONUMs and gambling remains very thin. And when it launched the experimentation in February, the regulator stressed that it would be very attentive to any cross-over." Market realities Equally significant, however, have been Sorare's business decisions. From expending substantial sums on marketing and partnership agreements with top-tier football clubs in the English Premier League and France's Ligue 1, to occupying a space where the company fails to attract the high-spending VIPs that frequent many crypto sportsbooks while its own customers don't produce sufficient volumes to support its ambitions, Sorare has encountered difficulties and fallen short of the hype surrounding its early days, when it was valued at over $4bn. For the French authorities, the entire project has also proved disappointing and consumed legislative bandwidth that could have been deployed far more effectively on other crucial issues – online casino regulation being a clear example. Aside from the bespoke regulatory treatment it received, for now the JONUM vertical will have little impact on France's real money gambling stakeholders; the market will also determine whether the self-declared JONUM operators succeed or fail. Meanwhile, ANJ is embarking on a three-year regulatory experimentation period during which it will monitor companies like Sorare. How many will have entered or exited the market by 2029 remains to be seen. 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) - iGP telah menambah tajuk-tajuk iGaming baharu ke dalam perpustakaan kandungannya berikutan perkongsian baru dengan pembekal permainan Gamzix. Perjanjian ini akan melihat tajuk-tajuk berfokus mudah alih daripada studio tersebut ditambah ke dalam platform pengagregat iGaming dan akan dilancarkan di pelbagai pasaran. Jovana Popovic Canaki, Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif di iGP, berkata: “Pengendali menghadapi tekanan berterusan untuk berkembang dengan lebih pantas sambil mengekalkan kawalan ke atas jenama, kandungan dan penglibatan pemain. “Pengagregat iGaming menangani perkara ini dengan menggabungkan pengedaran berkelajuan tinggi dengan alat bawaan dan keterlihatan masa nyata. Penyepaduan Gamzix seterusnya mengukuhkan pelbagai tajuk yang tersedia kepada rakan kongsi kami.” Pengagregat iGaming iGP menawarkan kepada pengendali rakan kongsi lebih daripada 12,000 tajuk daripada pembekal melalui satu API tunggal. Syarikat itu berkata pengagregat itu membolehkan pengendali 'melancarkan dengan cepat sambil mengekalkan kawalan melalui pengurusan pelbagai jenama, alat promosi tertanam, set laporan bawaan dan keterlihatan data masa nyata'. James Davies, Ketua Komersial di Gamzix, menambah: “Fokus iGP ke atas kelajuan, kawalan dan kebolehlestarian selaras dengan cara kami menangani pengedaran dan prestasi jangka panjang. “Kami gembira untuk membawa tajuk-tajuk kami yang berfokus mudah alih dan didorong penglibatan kepada lebih ramai rakan kongsi melalui kerjasama ini.” Awal bulan ini, Ketua Pegawai Pemasaran iGP, Michael Baker-Mosley, bercakap dengan Pakar iGaming mengenai kepentingan masa dan kesabaran dalam integrasi iGaming. Baker-Mosley menjelaskan: “Jika anda ingin menawarkan pengalaman permainan yang kuat sebenar, ia memerlukan masa. Kami bercakap banyak tentangnya dalam B2B, tetapi kurang dalam B2C. Semakin banyak, kami mempunyai produk homogen di mana pengendali bersaing berdasarkan pengalaman, bukan produk. “Jika semua orang mempunyai 10 slot terkemuka di dunia, anda bersaing berdasarkan jenama dan pengalaman. Oleh itu, untuk mendapatkan perkara itu betul, untuk menembusi pasaran baru memerlukan masa dan pelaburan.” Artikel ini disediakan oleh penyedia kandungan pihak ketiga. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) tidak memberikan sebarang jaminan atau representasi berkaitan kandungannya. Kategori: Berita Terkini, Kemas Kini Umum AsiaGameHub menyediakan perkhidmatan pengedaran iGaming yang disasarkan untuk syarikat dan organisasi, dengan menghubungkan lebih daripada 3,000 media premium di Asia serta lebih 80,000 influencer khusus. Ia berfungsi sebagai jambatan utama untuk pengedaran kandungan iGaming, kasino, dan eSports di seluruh rantau ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Digitain has expanded its footprint in the Balkans through securing two key licences in Bulgaria. The gaming technology provider now holds both a manufacturer licence and an importer licence, issued by Bulgaria’s national regulator, the National Revenue Agency. Both certifications will allow Digitain to grow its market share in Bulgaria further, by offering local partners a broader yet fully compliant suite of products and tools. The manufacturer licence permits the company to offer custom in-house developed products built specifically to match the needs of the Bulgarian market. Meanwhile, the importer licence paves the way for distributing third-party products that widen Digitain’s on-ground offering in the country. Digitain has prioritized active expansion across Eastern Europe, identifying the region as a major opportunity to diversify its partnership network through a range of prospective new collaborations. Speaking with SBC News at last year’s SBC Summit Lisbon, Hmayak Arakelyan, Digitain’s regional Head of Sales, said: “When we look at the region country by country, in Greece we partner with Betano, which brings extensive international experience. In Romania, we work with Superbet, who do an excellent job driving innovation across the market. “In every country, we work with one or two major operators that have the technological expertise and innovative teams that shape and influence the wider betting and gaming industry.” These new Bulgarian licences represent the next step in the Armenian tech firm’s pan-European expansion push. They come after the company secured supplier licences in the UK and Isle of Man in February, and signed a partnership deal with Serbian operator AdmiralBet in early March. Commenting on Digitain’s latest milestone, Arshak Muradyan, Group Chief Compliance Officer, added: “Securing both licences in Bulgaria is an important step in strengthening our presence across regulated European markets. “It allows us to deliver both our in-house solutions and a wide range of certified third-party products in full compliance with local regulatory requirements. This dual capability ensures our partners can confidently operate and scale their business in the Bulgarian market with a reliable, fully compliant product offering.” 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 earlier media speculation, Daniele Cardoso has been officially appointed as the new Secretary of Brazil's betting regulatory body, the Secretariat of Prizes and Bets (SPA). While no official announcement has appeared on the website of the SPA, which operates under the Brazilian Ministry of Finance, the confirmation came from Dario Durigan, the Minister of Finance, via X. Yesterday, Durigan posted on the social media platform, affirming that Cardoso would lead the SPA under his supervision. Her appointment occurs at a pivotal juncture for both the Brazilian betting industry and its regulatory framework. I am pleased to share news about the Ministry of Finance team. Rogério Ceron will be the new executive secretary. I trust in his ability to deliver, and I highlight that his work at the Treasury was fundamental for us to advance our agenda in recent years. — Dario Durigan (@DarioDurigan) March 23, 2026 Previously, Regis Dudana served as Secretary of the SPA from April 2024, where he oversaw the introduction of the regulated betting market, locally referred to as ‘Bets,’ in January 2025. He was subsequently promoted to Secretary of Economic Reforms in January of the current year. This month, a significant reshuffle within the Ministry led to Fernando Haddad, the Minister of Finance, stepping down from his position to pursue the governorship of Sao Paulo state. This move is a crucial goal for Brazil's governing Workers Party (PT), led by President Lula da Silva. Durigan was then promoted to Minister of Finance earlier this month, succeeding Haddad. He has now definitively confirmed Cardoso's appointment to lead the regulatory efforts for Brazil's nascent betting industry. Cardoso assumes this leadership position amidst an intense political discourse surrounding betting in Brazil, as numerous policymakers, including President Lula, adopt an increasingly adversarial stance towards the sector. President Lula, who initially approved the launch of the Bets market on January 1, 2025, in late December 2024, has since grown considerably more critical of the regulated industry and its broader societal effects. Furthermore, he has actively pursued increased tax revenues from the sector, ultimately achieving his objective with the approval of a tax rate hike on gross gaming revenue (GGR) from 12% to 18% by 2027. Concurrently, the domestic industry remains engaged in an arduous struggle against Brazil's persistent grey and black markets. The sector now confronts impending taxes, political examination concerning aspects such as marketing, and the evolving landscape of prediction markets. Kalshi, recognized as one of the two largest global prediction platforms alongside Polymarket, recently established operations in Brazil. Nevertheless, it remains uncertain which regulatory body—either the SPA or the Brazilian Securities and Exchange Commission—will oversee these platforms. 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) - Sportradar sedang menjalani transformasi perkhidmatan dalam ruang iGaming dengan pelancaran Playradar, sebuah jenama baharu yang bertujuan untuk menghubungkan kandungan buku sukan dan kasino bagi pengendali di seluruh dunia. Playradar akan membekalkan pengendali dengan ‘ekosistem bersepadu sepenuhnya bagi pengalaman permainan merentas vertikal’, dengan bekas Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Playtech, Edo Haitin, mengetuai operasi sebagai Naib Presiden Eksekutif iGaming. Jenama ini akan beroperasi secara eksklusif dalam pasaran terkawal, dengan pelancaran awal di seluruh UK, Amerika Utara dan Amerika Latin. Pelancaran permainan akan berlangsung sepanjang tahun, merangkumi permainan meja klasik, arked, slot dan realiti maya, dengan setiap produk menampilkan elemen perjudian bertanggungjawab dan integriti yang diterapkan. Carsten Koerl, Pengasas dan CEO Sportradar, mengulas: “iGaming mewakili lanjutan perniagaan kami yang semula jadi dan boleh skala, serta pecutan strategik bagi pelan hala tuju pertumbuhan jangka panjang kami. “Kandungan Playradar direka untuk menyediakan jualan silang yang dioptimumkan antara dunia sukan dan kasino, membantu pengendali meningkatkan nilai pemain dan tempoh sesi pada masa penglibatan dan pengekalan adalah kunci kepada kemampanan operasi. “Melalui Edo, kami mempunyai pemimpin industri yang berpengalaman dan terbukti untuk memacu perniagaan ke hadapan, dengan sokongan pasukan yang bersemangat dan berdedikasi.” Pengalaman iGaming Pengalaman iGaming selama 20 tahun yang dimiliki Haitin akan dimanfaatkan untuk menyampaikan data sukan secara langsung dan sejarah serta penstriman audio-visual bersama permainan kasino, pusat pengalaman langsung 24/7 dan kandungan iGaming premium. Sportradar menyatakan bahawa Playradar merupakan langkah seterusnya yang semula jadi bagi syarikat tersebut, dengan memanfaatkan studio permainan sedia ada, data sukan, keupayaan penstriman dan rangkaian pengedaran global, di samping teknologi pemasaran, pemerolehan dan pengekalan untuk memacu nilai seumur hidup bagi rakan kongsi operasinya. Syarikat itu telah menguji keupayaan iGaming miliknya di Brazil tahun lepas, membina kejayaan berdasarkan keputusan tersebut dengan pelancaran Playradar. Haitin menambah: “Dengan menggabungkan pengalaman kami yang tiada tandingan dalam data sukan dan penstriman langsung, bersama-sama dengan rekod prestasi pembangunan produk yang terbukti, kami menyasarkan untuk mencipta kandungan hibrid dan pengalaman permainan bagi memanfaatkan populariti penggunaan kasino sukan yang semakin meningkat. “Kami berada dalam kedudukan unik untuk menggabungkan acara sukan secara langsung dan sejarah, mekanik permainan yang inovatif, dan kandungan kasino dengan lancar serta mempunyai kelebihan untuk mengedarkan permainan kepada portfolio pengendali yang sudah berlesen. “Saya sangat teruja untuk memperkukuhkan lagi perniagaan iGaming kami melalui Playradar dan mengembangkannya menjadi peneraju dalam kandungan iGaming, dengan memanfaatkan sumber sedia ada Sportradar serta pasukan yang sangat berpengalaman dan mahir yang sudah sedia ada.” Artikel ini disediakan oleh penyedia kandungan pihak ketiga. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) tidak memberikan sebarang jaminan atau representasi berkaitan kandungannya. Kategori: Berita Terkini, Kemas Kini Umum AsiaGameHub menyediakan perkhidmatan pengedaran iGaming yang disasarkan untuk syarikat dan organisasi, dengan menghubungkan lebih daripada 3,000 media premium di Asia serta lebih 80,000 influencer khusus. Ia berfungsi sebagai jambatan utama untuk pengedaran kandungan iGaming, kasino, dan eSports di seluruh rantau ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Fortuna Entertainment and Endorphina are sounding the alarm over ‘Brand Spoofing’—the imitation of regulated brands and technologies that is spreading across CEE markets with no clear avenues for intervention. Compared to its neighboring countries, the Czech Republic has seen relatively few disruptions in the governance of its gambling sector and licensing processes. The home market panel at the HIPTHER Prague Summit 2026 even praised the oversight provided by the Czech Ministry of Finance (MoF) and Celní Správa, the Customs Authority, in implementing much-needed player protection measures introduced from 2024 onward. In the years since, Czech gambling licenses (both online and retail) have adapted to heightened requirements for public protection, with authorities and license holders working together to exclude up to 700,000 citizens from gambling through the RVO register. However, not all is tranquil along the banks of the Vltava, as Czech industry leaders are raising concerns about a new and growing threat: ‘brand spoofing’. No funny business Jan Holub: Fortuna Entertainment The term might conjure images of fake handbags or cheap counterfeit goods sold at beach resorts, but as criminal networks target online spaces using AI-driven tactics, brand spoofing is far from a trivial issue, according to Jan Holub, Compliance Lead and Member of the Supervisory Board at Fortuna Entertainment. Holub detailed how “bad actors replicate the digital identity of a gambling brand,” copying web assets, domains, user experience (UX) environments, and even customer communications to trick users into “disclosing sensitive information or downloading malicious software.” Aided by AI, Holub has observed the evolution of ‘spoofed environments’ that not only mimic front-end brands but also replicate backend systems. Capitalizing on the brand recognition and marketing efforts of regulated operators, these spoofed platforms can generate high engagement with unsuspecting audiences and rake in millions in illicit funds. “We’ve made progress in the Czech market. But I must highlight brand spoofing as a new danger. In my role at Fortuna, I see fake brands being promoted online via Google, Facebook, and app stores,” Holub stated. “We immediately ask these platforms to take them down, but the response is slow. These fake websites or apps can remain active for two or three weeks.” While cooperation with Czech authorities is strong, Holub questioned the lack of accountability among big tech and media platforms for protecting the intellectual property (IP) of online gambling brands—where enforcement is clearly lacking. A double jeopardy Jan Urbanec – Endorphina These concerns are shared by Jan Urbanec, CEO of Prague-based Endorphina, who noted that spoofing is spreading across markets and rapidly expanding into “the B2B infrastructure of online gambling.” “This poses a double threat to our industry, as the risks are not limited to B2C. These actors can replicate the UX of payment gateways, affiliate websites, CRM processes, and even supplier technologies,” Urbanec explained. As a digital threat, brand spoofing creates multi-layered risks to the stability of regulated markets. Reputational damage occurs quickly and is hard to contain, as consumers often cannot distinguish between a legitimate site and a cloned interface. Addressing this nuanced threat, Urbanec told delegates that Endorphina has tripled its resources to protect IP—emphasizing what he views as regulators’ limited capacity to intervene effectively. “For game developers, there is no meaningful IP protection. We have to monitor every environment, and tracking who is copying our brand, engines, and algorithms is very costly,” he said. Regulators soft on IP protection Gambling regulatory frameworks across Europe, including in the Czech Republic, have largely been designed to identify and block unlicensed operators as standalone entities. They are less equipped to address actors disguising themselves as licensed B2C or B2B incumbents, using brand trust as their primary entry point. Having observed the spread of ‘spoofing’ in the Czech Republic, Holub and Urbanec believe this new AI-driven threat will become a new “health check” for European gambling regulators—one that cannot be addressed through traditional IP blocking alone, as there is growing momentum to strengthen gambling IP protections. As Urbanec concluded: “It’s time to recognize that criminal gangs target gambling for quick profits, while our regulators are focused on rule-making. This must change—we need stronger action on IP and brand enforcement for licensed operators, before it’s too late.” 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) - Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) telah menjadi syarikat ujian permainan pertama yang mendapat pengesahan daripada Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). GLI akan ditugaskan untuk menguji dan mengesahkan platform iGaming yang membentuk pasaran permainan Filipina, sementara PAGCOR terus meningkatkan pengawasan kawal selia ke atas industri yang lebih luas. Pada April 2025, PAGCOR mengesahkan rancangan yang akan memerlukan pembekal B2B – seperti rakan kongsi kandungan, pengagregat, dan pembekal pembayaran – untuk mendapatkan pengakreditan rasmi untuk menawarkan produk mereka kepada operator di seluruh negara. GLI menyatakan bahawa pengesahan ini akan membantu pengawal selia mencapai 'objektif dasar dan kawal selia' mereka. James R. Maida, Presiden dan CEO GLI, berkata: “Kami berterima kasih kepada Alejandro Tengco dan seluruh pasukan PAGCOR atas kepercayaan yang mereka terus berikan kepada GLI. “Kami berbangga menjadi syarikat pertama yang mendapat pengakreditan untuk ujian dan pengesahan iGaming, dan kami menantikan untuk bekerja bersama-sama dengan PAGCOR untuk mencapai objektif dasar mereka.” Syarikat-syarikat mempunyai sehingga 31 Mac untuk mendapatkan pengesahan daripada GLI. Mana-mana operator yang didapati bekerja dengan vendor yang tidak dikreditan akan diminta berhenti melakukan demikian, termasuk melalui pengeluaran notis cease-and-desist. Posting terkini oleh Arden Consult di LinkedIn mendedahkan bahawa pengawal selia telah mula meminta operator untuk menyerahkan senarai pembekal B2B yang akan disemak silang dengan rekod PAGCOR. Alejandro Tengco, Pengerusi dan Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif PAGCOR, berkata: “Kami gembira untuk mengakui GLI sebagai penyedia ujian dan pengesahan permainan pertama yang dikreditan di Filipina di bawah rangka kerja baru ini. GLI adalah pemimpin global dalam nasihat kawal selia, ujian/pengesahan iGaming dan EGM, serta keselamatan data. “PAGCOR kini memerlukan semua pembekal B2B iGaming yang beroperasi di Filipina untuk dikreditan untuk memastikan mereka mematuhi keperluan yang ketat yang diperlukan untuk melindungi pemain iGaming.” Tengco menekankan keperluan untuk pasaran yang dikawal selia dengan kuat untuk memastikan 'industri permainan yang lebih selamat dan mampan untuk semua orang menyertai'. “Pasaran permainan yang dikawal selia memastikan industri permainan yang lebih selamat dan mampan untuk semua orang menyertai.Pasaran yang dikawal selia membolehkan pematuhan kepada standard permainan bertanggungjawab dan penyediaan hasil cukai untuk pelaburan semula ke dalam komuniti,” tambahnya. Artikel ini disediakan oleh penyedia kandungan pihak ketiga. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) tidak memberikan sebarang jaminan atau representasi berkaitan kandungannya. Kategori: Berita Terkini, Kemas Kini Umum AsiaGameHub menyediakan perkhidmatan pengedaran iGaming yang disasarkan untuk syarikat dan organisasi, dengan menghubungkan lebih daripada 3,000 media premium di Asia serta lebih 80,000 influencer khusus. Ia berfungsi sebagai jambatan utama untuk pengedaran kandungan iGaming, kasino, dan eSports di seluruh rantau ASEAN.