(SeaPRwire) - 一位知名军事分析师警告称，如果伊朗精锐部队及其代理武装转向该地区的游击式打了就跑袭击，可能会大幅增加美军的伤亡人数。据报道，华盛顿近东政策研究所（Washington Institute for Near East Policy）的迈克尔·艾森施塔特（Michael Eisenstadt）发表上述言论时，五角大楼正将陆军第82空降师的部分兵力调往中东，此时冲突出现新的升级。“伊朗军队拥有大型步兵单位，其规模相当于第82空降师的旅级战斗队，”前美国陆军预备役军官艾森施塔特告诉Digital。“第82空降师的兵力太小，无法对伊朗造成重大伤害，但又足够大，容易成为伊朗打击的目标，这将使伊朗能够大幅增加美军的伤亡，”他说。曾担任美国政府军事分析师的艾森施塔特称，即使中东地区的主要常规行动开始减弱，危险可能只会演变而不会消失。“我们可能会看到主要作战行动结束，活动转向海湾地区的游击式打了就跑袭击以及伊朗的其他灰色地带活动，”他说。“想想1991年海湾战争（针对伊拉克）的后果，在那场非常成功的战争之后，我们不得不遏制伊拉克人长达十年。”首席国家安全记者詹妮弗·格里芬（Jennifer Griffin）周三报道称，美国已下令向该地区额外部署第82空降师的兵力。这支特遣队预计将包括该师师长布兰登·R·特格特迈尔少将（Maj. Gen. Brandon R. Tegtmeier）、其总部 staff 的部分人员以及该师快速反应部队的步兵营。官员们还表示，最终派遣的总兵力仍可能发生变化。艾森施塔特表示，此次新部署旨在向德黑兰施压，因为美国正在推动唐纳德·特朗普总统制定的新停火条款。“此次部署旨在对伊朗形成筹码，并迫使它接受美国的停火协议条款。如果伊朗拒绝这些条款，这也将创造军事选项，”他说。他说，在这种情况下，第82空降师可能会与海军陆战队远征部队协同行动，夺取并控制包括哈格岛（Kharg Island）在内的地形，该岛位于伊朗海湾沿岸约20英里处。据多家报道，美军于3月13日袭击了那里的军事目标，摧毁了90多个伊朗军事设施，同时故意避开了关键的石油基础设施。“第82空降师的旅级战斗队可以与第11和第31海军陆战队远征部队（MEUs）合作，或独立行动，夺取并控制地形——比如哈格岛，”艾森施塔特说。“这将通过剥夺伊朗的石油出口能力，为美国提供对伊朗的筹码，并帮助以对美国有利的条款结束战争。”“不过存在风险，因为伊朗大陆的部队可能会轰炸哈格岛，并对那里的美军造成伤亡，”艾森施塔特说。此次最新的军事集结发生在2月28日“史诗之怒”行动（Operation Epic Fury）引发的冲突之际，该冲突也集中在霍尔木兹海峡（Strait of Hormuz），伊朗限制了该海峡的通行。“第82空降师的部署旨在增加对伊朗的心理压力，并支持重新开放霍尔木兹海峡的努力，以便所有国家都能再次使用该海峡，”艾森施塔特解释说。第82空降师是美国军方的主要快速反应部队之一，接受过跳伞进入敌对或有争议地区以确保关键地面和机场安全的训练。据Axios报道，该师的部分兵力最近几天也在联合战备训练中心（Joint Readiness Training Center）进行训练，提高渗透、监视、作战和补给技能。“伊朗军事官员对这些部队被派往海湾的消息表示欢迎，因为这可能为他们创造向美国施加代价的选项，”艾森施塔特说。本文由第三方内容提供商提供。SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/)对此不作任何保证或陈述。
分类: 头条新闻,日常新闻
SeaPRwire为公司和机构提供全球新闻稿发布，覆盖超过6,500个媒体库、86,000名编辑和记者，以及350万以上终端桌面和手机App。SeaPRwire支持英、日、德、韩、法、俄、印尼、马来、越南、中文等多种语言新闻稿发布。
CLEVELAND, Ohio, Mar 26, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Formerra, a leader in performance materials distribution, announced the implementation of a transportation surcharge to address continued cost escalation across the Americas freight and logistics market. Beginning April 1, 2026, a $350 per delivery surcharge will apply to all shipments.The freight and logistics market continues to experience elevated costs driven by rising diesel prices, evolving regulatory requirements affecting driver availability, tighter trucking capacity, and increasing operating expenses across the logistics sector. Industry forecasts indicate these pressures will persist for the foreseeable future."Maintaining reliable service for our customers requires us to adapt to sustained shifts in the transportation landscape," said Tom Kelly, Formerra CEO. "This surcharge is necessary to address these industrywide cost pressures that are outside of our control while continuing to provide the high service levels customers expect from Formerra."Customers should contact their Formerra representative for more information.About FormerraFormerra is a preeminent distributor of engineered materials, connecting the world's leading polymer producers with thousands of OEMs and brand owners across healthcare, consumer, industrial, and mobility markets. Powered by technical and commercial expertise, it brings a distinctive combination of portfolio depth, supply chain strength, industry knowledge, service, leading e-commerce capabilities, and ingenuity. The experienced Formerra team helps customers across multiple industries to design, select, process, and develop products in new and better ways - driving improved performance, productivity, reliability, and sustainability. To learn more, visit www.formerra.com.Media ContactJackie MorrisFormerraMarketing Communications Managerjackie.morris@formerra.com+1 630-972-3144SOURCE: Formerra Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
(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) - A recent report indicates that New York’s three full casino licensees have the potential to achieve annual gaming revenues as high as $5.6 billion.
Final approval for the three new licenses was granted by the New York State Gaming Commission in December. Following a competitive selection process, the sought-after licenses were awarded to Bally’s Bronx, Hard Rock Metropolitan Park in Queens, and Resorts World New York City at Aqueduct Racetrack.
An analysis by CBRE Institutional Research suggests all three locations are poised to be highly profitable. The completion of all projects is anticipated by 2031.
For their first full year of operation, the base-case estimate for Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) is $4.7 billion. This would position the region as the second-largest gaming market in the United States, trailing only Las Vegas.
CBRE stated, “The Downstate New York market is significantly under-penetrated, and there is a strong case for each of the three projects to be among the highest revenue-generating casinos across regional gaming.”
Huge Gaming Floors to Attract New York Gamblers
New York is already a leader in sports betting, with its handle hitting $26.3 billion in 2025. The state exhibits a substantial appetite for wagering, and the new casinos will offer numerous gambling opportunities for residents.
CBRE explained, “The proposed gaming floors are massive, featuring some of the largest table game areas, if not the largest, seen in regional gaming, with over 200, 400, and 500 tables planned for Bally’s Bronx, [Hard Rock] and RWNYC, respectively.”
Upon full completion, Resorts World NYC is projected to be the largest casino in the US, equipped with 6,000 slot machines and 800 gaming tables.
The company plans to launch the initial phase of the full-scale casino later this year, offering up to 4,000 slot machines and 250 table games.
“RWNYC should also benefit from having existing casino infrastructure in place and an already established customer base, as the proposed project is an expansion of the existing facility rather than a ground-up development,” CBRA stated in its report.
Other New Venues Set for 2030 Openings
The two other venues will be constructed from the ground up. Hard Rock Metropolitan Park is planned to include roughly 5,000 slot machines and 375 table games, which will incorporate 30 poker tables. Developers expect to break ground this year, aiming for an opening around 2030.
Bally’s Bronx is also scheduled for a full opening in 2030, with plans for approximately 3,500 slot machines, 210–250 table games, and 40 poker tables.
All three casinos are situated in prime locations to draw visitors. CBRE observed, “Each location benefits from a high volume of passerby traffic, non-gaming-specific reasons to visit, and a large population base within a reasonable drive-to and/or train-to radius.”
Gaming Expected to Dominate Revenue
According to analysts, a bullish scenario projects total annual revenue reaching $7.8 billion, with gaming expected to contribute over 70% of that total.
“This contrasts with Las Vegas, where gaming accounts for less than one-third of Strip property revenue. We do not expect Downstate New York to resemble the Vegas model – these will remain gaming-dominated properties, especially given the higher margins associated with gaming versus hotel or ancillary spending,” said CBRE.
New York is not anticipated to experience the same declining visitor figures as Vegas. Over 65 million people visited the Big Apple last year. Resorts World will have the largest hotel capacity with about 2,000 rooms, followed by Metropolitan Park with 1,000, and Bally’s Bronx with slightly more than 500.
As reported by Inside Asian Gaming, analysts Colin Mansfield and Connor Parks said the hotels are unlikely to compete with New York City’s already substantial cash-paying customer base and will instead be largely reserved to drive gaming demand.
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) - Authorities in South Korea report that illicit money exchange operations are focusing on Chinese gamblers within the island province of Jeju.
The region, a major destination for Chinese travelers, features eight casinos restricted to foreign nationals.
Law enforcement officials note a spike in local crime, attributing the trend to an increase in gambling-related pursuits.
According to the South Korean newspaper Dong-A Ilbo, the Jeju Metropolitan Police Agency recently announced a series of security measures aimed at curbing these offenses.
The agency highlighted a growing number of illegal currency transactions involving foreign passport holders.
A police representative explained that these unauthorized brokers serve undocumented individuals and casino visitors looking to move large sums of money abroad while bypassing legal remittance caps.
Chinese Gamblers: Authorities Launch Crackdown on Exchanges
Beyond currency, these operators offer illicit loans, which often escalate into serious offenses like kidnapping, extortion, assault, and fraud, according to the spokesperson.
Police also warned that fraudsters have begun preying on undocumented immigrants and Chinese gamblers in the Jeju area.
In one instance from February, a Chinese national in his 50s lost 30 million won (approximately $20,000) to a scammer posing as a broker.
The two individuals connected via the WeChat social media platform. Officers stated the victim handed over the funds under the impression that the operator would securely transfer the money to China.
However, the suspect reportedly vanished after receiving the cash and failed to complete the international transfer.
Officials emphasized that these illegal activities frequently result in violent encounters.
Last November, three individuals were detained for the two-hour abduction of a Chinese woman in her 30s inside a hotel room.
The victim was located in a luxury Jeju City hotel that houses a casino. She informed authorities that she had intended to exchange $87,000 worth of Chinese yuan for local currency.
Additionally, a year ago, three Chinese citizens, including a woman in her 40s, were apprehended for the fatal stabbing of an illegal broker to settle gambling debts.
The group was accused of stealing roughly $57,000 in valuables, including casino chips and cash.
Law Enforcement Issues Public Warning
Jeju police told the press they anticipate a further rise in such crimes as the number of tourists continues to grow.
Between 2022 and 2024, visitor arrivals surged to 662,976, nearly a fourfold increase.
During that same timeframe, casino earnings reached $324 million.
The casino located at the Jeju Shinhwa World resort in Seogwipo, Jeju Province, South Korea. (Image: jejushinhwaworld/Facebook)
To combat this, a specialized WeChat channel has been established for reporting suspicious activity to Jeju’s Foreign Affairs Police Force.
Authorities are also intensifying social media outreach targeting international visitors.
The Jeju police plan to display promotional materials in casinos and high-traffic areas to encourage the use of legitimate financial institutions.
A sub-tropical beach scene on South Korea's Jeju Island. (Image: Jungjin Moon)
A spokesperson warned that utilizing black-market exchanges puts individuals at risk of violent crimes against their person and property.
Local government officials are supporting the initiative through casino inspections to ensure entry protocols are followed.
A similar effort last year uncovered 15 procedural violations.
In September, Jeju police detained several Chinese nationals following what was described as a “riot” at a casino.
The incident involved approximately 50 Chinese citizens and casino staff after a player accused a dealer of cheating during a card game.
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) - Slot machine developer International Game Technology (IGT) is conducting global layoffs of 700 employees, which constitutes roughly 10% of the company's workforce.
CEO Hector Fernandez notified employees of the job reductions via a letter sent on Monday. Since taking on his position in December of last year, Fernandez has been assessing the company's workforce.
“We looked into our areas of focus, our operational methods, and how our structure aligns with our strategy. As part of this evaluation, we were compelled to make tough choices regarding our organizational setup, and this process has resulted in a challenging yet essential step,” he wrote.
The layoffs are not tied to employee performance; instead, they aim to streamline operations following last year's merger with Everi. The merger was part of a takeover by New York-based firm Apollo, which agreed to acquire both companies for $6.3 billion in 2024.
Fernandez was appointed to lead the newly formed company and added, “The changes we are announcing today are part of our endeavor to simplify our structure, eliminate redundancies, and allow us to operate with increased clarity and speed.”
Plan Devised During Year of Waiting
Fernandez noted that severance packages are being offered to affected employees. He added, “For those departing IGT as a result of this action, we are dedicated to providing severance pay, outplacement assistance, and transition resources.”
Prior to assuming his CEO role, he was required to wait a year due to a non-compete agreement from his former position as CEO of Aristocrat.
During his year away, he stated that he developed a business plan centered on the 5 C’s: culture, capabilities, content, commercialization, and cash-flow generation.
“I crafted the plan, strategy, and execution approach for this role. I couldn’t engage in competition, but I could apply my intellect. That’s exactly what I did,” said Fernandez.
Company Moves to Next Chapter
Fernandez encouraged remaining employees to unite and push the company forward.
“What is crucial now is how we progress collectively: supporting one another, concentrating on our priorities, and continuing the work that will shape the next chapter of our company. We joined forces to build an enterprise capable of leading in a fast-evolving industry, and I remain confident in that opportunity and in the strength of our team,” he told staff.
The layoffs were first reported by the Las Vegas Review-Journal, though the outlet did not specify how many of the job losses are in Nevada.
IGT operates two facilities in the state, including a Las Vegas location near Buffalo Drive and Sunset Road. The company moved its headquarters to Vegas last year following the merger.
The company also has employees in Texas, California, Oklahoma, and New Jersey. Internationally, it maintains a presence in Europe, Australia, India, and Latin America.
In his letter, Fernandez did not specify the locations of the job cuts. When announcing the deal to acquire IGT and Everi, Dave Cohen, a partner at Apollo, stated, “We are eager to collaborate with all individuals at IGT Gaming and Everi to advance the combined enterprise.”
This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content.
AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.
(AsiaGameHub) - Medical professionals in Indonesia report a sharp increase in inpatients suffering from gambling addictions, with several hospitals struggling to manage the rising patient count.
The Indonesian media outlet Jatim Times reports that the surge in patient numbers is driving a steep rise in hospital bed occupancy rates. Officials note that during certain times of the year, these rates have exceeded 90%.
Doctors attribute much of this trend to severe gambling addiction. Staff at Surabaya’s Menur Mental Hospital stated that between January and April 2025, the facility treated 51 patients with serious gambling disorders—16 of whom were inpatients. By May, that number had reached 85.
These statistics point to a significant upward trend. For the entire year of 2024, the same hospital treated a total of 68 gambling addicts.
Trend Extends to Other Parts of Indonesia
The Surabaya figures are not isolated. Physicians in the capital, Jakarta, have reported similar patterns.
In November 2024, Indonesian media outlet Radar Bangkalan reported that staff at Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital (RSCM) said around 100 people had received inpatient treatment for gambling-related issues in recent months.
The Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital in Jakarta, Indonesia. (Image: Edogang1)
Kristiana Siste Kurniasanti, head of the hospital’s Psychiatry Division, noted there has been a “significant rise” in the number of patients with similar conditions.
She said approximately 200 outpatients are also receiving treatment for gambling addiction, adding that some patients are as young as 14.
Siste stated the figures doubled in 2023 and tripled the following year.
“These figures have continued to balloon,” she added. “Addicts don’t know when it’s morning, afternoon, or evening anymore,” she told Indonesian media outlets last week.
“They don’t even know when their money is gone. Addicts will go to any lengths to find money to gamble. They even commit crimes, such as stealing other people’s money and belongings.”
Experts told Radar Bangkalan that similar cases “have been found in many areas,” with the number of patients likely much higher in other parts of the country.
Medics said online gambling began to gain traction in Indonesia during the coronavirus pandemic. They blamed easily accessible online loan providers for enabling people to bet on credit.
Earlier this month, police in Kupang city arrested a taxi driver they said had become addicted to gambling.
The 30-year-old man allegedly pawned his employer’s car to fund his online betting sprees.
Police Make Arrests
Meanwhile, police continue their crackdown on online casinos, which has so far seen regulators freeze tens of thousands of dollars in hundreds of citizens’ bank accounts.
Officials say all the accounts were used to make deposits or withdrawals on online casino platforms.
In East Java’s Ngawi Regency, regional police officers report they have arrested six people on suspicion of using their mobile phones to gamble online.
The media outlet Surya Indonesia reported that police confiscated all six suspects’ mobile phones and bank cards.
At a press conference, they showed media representatives screenshots of banking applications they said the suspects used to place online bets.
“We will crack down on all social ills, including […] online gambling,” a police official told the press. “We ask for the community’s help in this matter. Together, we can work to create a safe and comfortable environment in the Ngawi Regency.”
This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content.
AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.
(AsiaGameHub) - DraftKings, FanDuel, Genius Sports, and the National Football League are facing a product liability lawsuit filed by the Public Health Advocacy Institute (PHAI), which claims the firms collaborated to develop and profit from an “unreasonably dangerous” online gambling product built to fuel addiction.
The 81-page legal filing was submitted on March 24 at the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County on behalf of two Pennsylvania residents: Christopher Sage and Terry Thompson. Live microbetting, which lets users place quick, consecutive bets during a sporting event, is the core focus of this lawsuit.
The plaintiffs claim that the design elements of online sports betting platforms — such as tailored promotions, real-time statistics, and VIP outreach — are crafted to amplify addictive betting habits.
Combined, the plaintiffs state they placed millions in bets and lost over $2 million while using the FanDuel and DraftKings Sportsbook applications.
In the press release announcing the lawsuit, Mark Gottlieb, executive director at PHAI, said:
“These defendants, including the NFL, are working in tandem to turn regular sports fans into constant gamblers. By leveraging coordinated immersive marketing, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and customer-specific algorithms, they manipulate users’ cognitive processes and inflict lasting, severe harm on long-time fans like Mr. Sage and Mr. Thompson.”
The lawsuit alleges that the tactics used by these firms transform “casual sports fans and recreational bettors into compulsive gambling addicts.”
By naming parties across the entire sports betting ecosystem — including sportsbook operators, data suppliers, and the NFL directly — the filing argues the system is set up so every participant helps boost betting volume, with all parties walking away with profits.
The plaintiffs are requesting both compensatory and punitive damages, plus an injunction to halt the defendants’ supposedly wrongful conduct.
Lawsuit Targets Microbetting, Personalization & ‘Always-On’ Gambling
The “flawed design” of the named sports betting platforms lies at the heart of this lawsuit. The filing draws a comparison between modern apps and traditional sports betting, where fans had to travel to place wagers before a game began and then wait for the final outcome, claiming DraftKings and FanDuel eliminated those natural restrictions and replaced them with a quicker, constantly accessible system centered on in-game live microbetting.
The filing claims these apps “remove the limitations that once constrained in-person sports betting locations,” crafting a “tailored and ultra-fast sports gambling interface.” The lawsuit explains how these quick bets placed on individual pitches, plays, shots, or other in-game moments impact bettors, stating they trigger a “trancelike state known as ‘dark flow,’ where users become fully immersed in the game.”
Unlike standard sports bets, which are settled only once a game concludes, microbets can be resolved in just a few seconds. All these elements create a fast feedback cycle that keeps users engaged and pushes them to place repeat bets.
To support its case, the lawsuit draws a parallel between microbets and slot machines, noting that the practice “fully immerses users in the constant cycle of ‘pulling the lever’ or clicking to place the next microbet while waiting for the next potential win.”
As a result, the plaintiffs allege:
Christopher Sage developed a serious gambling addiction after using the apps, losing more than $40,000 on DraftKings and $130,300 on FanDuel.
Terry Thompson faced even more devastating losses, with a total of approximately $1.52 million on FanDuel and $336,000 on DraftKings.
The filing also points out the role that tailored marketing plays in fueling addictive betting on these platforms, such as push notifications and VIP hosts assigned to high-spending users. The lawsuit claims that in some instances, these outreach efforts continued even after users tried to cut back or stop their gambling entirely.
These elements, the lawsuit contends, lead to a product design that prioritizes user engagement and corporate profits over the safety of bettors, drawing comparisons to highly addictive substances such as heroin, cocaine, and tobacco.
Commenting on the lawsuit, PHAI Litigation Director Andrew Rainer said:
“Following the example set by the tobacco industry, the online sports gambling sector has crafted a highly addictive, nearly impossible-to-resist product that blasts consumers with dozens of betting chances each and every minute, leaving a wake of shattered lives, including our clients Chris Sage and Terry Thompson.
“Instead of continuing to line their pockets with billions in annual profits, those responsible for this destruction — DraftKings, FanDuel, Genius Sports, and tragically, the NFL — must be held accountable. This is the process we are launching today.”
Lawsuit Puts NFL, Genius Sports Relationship Under Scrutiny
A notable aspect of this lawsuit is the inclusion of the NFL and Genius Sports, whom the filing identifies as critical enablers of the modern sports betting ecosystem.
Genius Sports holds exclusive rights to distribute NFL data to sportsbooks, supplying the real-time statistics required to run microbetting markets. The lawsuit claims the NFL has a direct financial stake in this system, as it holds an equity share in Genius Sports and its licensing agreements.
“The NFL Defendants engaged in unfair or misleading practices by providing DraftKings and FanDuel, via Genius Sports, with officially licensed live NFL game and player data and statistics — data they knew was essential for DraftKings and FanDuel to build microbetting options into the design of their Sportsbook apps,” the lawsuit alleges.
Per the filing, this partnership benefits both organizations when betting volume rises, particularly high-frequency bets like microbets, which bring in significant commission revenue.
PHAI, the group that filed this lawsuit, has a long track record of legal actions against the tobacco industry, including public liability cases that resulted in multibillion-dollar settlements in the 1990s. Whether the group will achieve similar success in its fight against the sports betting industry will now be determined by the courts.
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) - Sens. John Curtis (R-UT) and Adam Schiff (D-CA) unveiled bipartisan legislation on March 23 that would prohibit prediction markets overseen by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) from offering contracts tied to sports events and casino-style activities. This proposed bill joins a growing roster of legislative efforts aimed at curbing prediction markets as these platforms face heightened oversight from lawmakers on Capitol Hill.
The Prediction Markets Are Gambling Act would revise the Commodity Exchange Act (CEA) to prevent registered entities from providing contracts related to sporting events, athletic contests, or casino-type games. Should the bill become law, it would explicitly affirm that states hold complete jurisdiction over sports betting and casino-style gambling.
Prediction markets are offering sports bets — just with a different name. They are being offered in states where sports betting is illegal, like California, while federal regulators are greenlighting them rather than enforcing the law.My bipartisan legislation with… pic.twitter.com/oNvI2vw9IP— Adam Schiff (@SenAdamSchiff) March 23, 2026
This legislation emerges at a time when sports-related contracts are a major point of contention in discussions about the legality of prediction markets. State regulators, tribal representatives, industry associations, and certain legislators have contended that sports event contracts are no different from sports betting, serving as a loophole that lets CFTC-regulated platforms bypass state laws and operate in regions where conventional sports wagering is limited or prohibited.
Redefining the Rules of the Game
In its current form, the bill would resolve the ongoing debate about whether event contracts are legitimate hedging instruments or merely digital bets. The legislation would modify the CEA to clearly define and prohibit contracts linked to “sporting events or athletic competitions” and “casino-style games”—a category that covers everything from slot machine activities to professional and college sports.
Speaking about the proposed legislation, Curtis put it in terms of state authority and consumer protection:
“Too many young people in Utah are getting exposed to addictive sports betting and casino-style gaming contracts that belong under state control, not under federal regulators. Our bipartisan legislation clarifies regulatory jurisdiction, ensuring that states can maintain their authority over sports betting and casino gaming.”
Schiff was more straightforward in criticizing the current setup of prediction markets, asserting that “sports prediction contracts are sports bets—just under a different label.” He noted these products are available across the country “in blatant violation of state and federal laws” and framed the bill as a means to shut a regulatory “backdoor” that undermines state consumer safeguards and tribal self-governance.
Capitol Hill Continues to Ramp Up Pressure on Prediction Markets
The Prediction Markets Are Gambling Act is the newest addition to a recent surge of legislative measures aimed at prediction markets—an industry Schiff referred to as the “Wild West” when he introduced the DEATH BETS Act on March 11.
Beyond sports and casino-style activities, Congress is targeting prediction markets from several angles as it seeks to impose stricter regulations on these platforms:
Political Integrity: Rep. Ritchie Torres (D-NY) put forward the Public Integrity in Financial Prediction Markets Act, which would prohibit federal officials from trading in government-related contracts when they have access to nonpublic information.
The “Death Bets” Ban: Senator Schiff also recently unveiled the DEATH BETS Act, which explicitly forbids contracts linked to war, assassinations, or the death of an individual.
Consumer Protections: The Prediction Markets Security and Integrity Act, backed by Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Sen. Andy Kim (D-NJ), suggests a more comprehensive regulatory structure that includes age verification requirements and a prohibition on using credit cards for betting.
As prediction markets grow in popularity, Capitol Hill lawmakers are signaling their intent to influence the future direction of the industry.
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 PGA Tour schedule rolls on this week with the Texas Children’s Houston Open, and Scottie Scheffler enters the event as the primary betting favorite.
Matt Fitzpatrick is coming off his third career PGA Tour title at last week’s Valspar Championship, while Min Woo Lee returns as the defending champion of the Texas Children’s Houston Open.
Texas Children’s Houston Open Betting Odds at DraftKings
Below are the odds for the top contenders to win the Texas Children’s Houston Open according to DraftKings:
Scottie Scheffler +320
Min Woo Lee +1800
Chris Gotterup +2500
Jake Knapp +2600
Sam Burns +2800
Brooks Koepka +2900
Kurt Kitayama +3000
Rickie Fowler +3300
Nicolai Hojgaard +3300
Marco Penge +3800
Michael Thorbjornsen +3900
Ben Griffin +4000
Adam Scott +4300
Harris English +4300
Ryan Gerard +4500
Harry Hall +4600
Keith Mitchell +4700
Taylor Pendrith +5200
Rasmus Hojgaard +5200
Wyndham Clark +5400
Shane Lowry +5500
Pierceson Coody +5500
Sam Stevens +5600
Sahith Theegala +5900
Alex Smalley +6200
Davis Thompson +6400
Jason Day +6500
Tony Finau +6600
Stephan Jaeger +6600
Ricky Castillo +6800
Sungjae Im +7000
Top Favorite Bet for the Texas Children’s Houston Open
Chris Gotterup (+2500)
Memorial Park is a course that rewards long hitters, making Chris Gotterup a prime candidate for success this week.
Gotterup currently sits at sixth on the tour in driving distance, averaging 319.1 yards. His personal best this year was a 367-yard drive at the WM Phoenix Open, a tournament he won back in February.
Additionally, Gotterup secured a victory at the Sony Open to begin his 2026 season. He has shown he can handle the pressure of contention and could find himself in the winner's circle again on Sunday.
Top Sleeper Bet for the Texas Children’s Houston Open
Michael Thorbjornsen +3900
Michael Thorbjornsen appears to be on the verge of his first victory on the PGA Tour. He recently went head-to-head with Gotterup at the WM Phoenix Open, finishing just one stroke behind the lead.
Thorbjornsen also played in the final pairing at The Players Championship alongside Ludvig Aberg, though a difficult 5-over round resulted in a T-22 finish.
As a powerful driver who also performs well on the greens, he has a strong chance to secure his first tour win in Houston.
Top Longshot Bet for the Texas Children’s Houston Open
Tony Finau +6600
Tony Finau is a past champion at this event, winning the 2023 Houston Open before returning to claim a runner-up finish the following year.
Finau arrives in Houston following a solid T-18 performance at last week's Valspar Championship. While his overall form is strong, he can occasionally struggle with his accuracy off the tee.
That should not be a major concern at Memorial Park, a venue that is forgiving off the tee and features the fewest bunkers of any course on the tour.
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.
Toronto, ON, Mar 25, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Aleen Inc. (CSE: ALEN-U), a digital wellness company, has introduced a new data layer within its Personal Wellness Account, designed to enhance how its AI assistant interprets and structures wellness data.As part of its ongoing product development, Aleen Inc. has implemented a biomarker extraction approach that enables the system to process user-provided data and identify key indicators in a more structured way. This includes the use of a dedicated AI agent that processes documents page by page and extracts relevant biomarkers from wellness data sources.In addition to extraction, Aleen Inc. is developing a standardized structure for each biomarker, including its name, value, unit of measurement, and reference range. These structured data elements are now reflected within the Personal Wellness Account interface. Users will be able to view the total number of detected biomarkers and potential deviations directly within the file list, while a dedicated “Biomarkers” tab in the detailed view provides expanded access to the data in both table and panel formats, along with search and filtering capabilities.This development represents a step toward more structured data environments within Aleen’s ecosystem, supporting improved organization, accessibility, and interaction with wellness data. The introduction of this layer may also contribute to future enhancements in how the system identifies patterns and supports user-centered insights. This update reflects Aleen Inc.’s continued focus on building scalable data architecture and advancing its Personal Wellness Account as a structured, AI-assisted environment for working with wellness data.About Aleen Inc.Aleen Inc. operates as a digital wellness and well-being insights company. Its platform transforms personal wellness information into simple, personalized insights that promote greater self-awareness and balance in daily life. Aleen’s mission is to empower individuals with knowledge and clarity through responsible use of technology and data.For more information, visit www.aleen.ca.Forward-Looking StatementThis press release contains forward-looking statements regarding future plans and developments by Aleen Inc. These statements are based on current expectations and assumptions and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. Aleen Inc. undertakes no obligation to update or revise these statements except as required by law. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
(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.
HONG KONG, Mar 25, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - On March 25, 2026, Hengrui Pharma (600276.SH; 01276.HK) announced robust financial results for the full year 2025, fueled by its dual strategy of innovation and globalization. Revenue increased 13.02% year-on-year to RMB 31.63 billion, and net profit attributable to shareholders increased by 21.69% to RMB 7.71 billion.Innovation remained the engine of Hengrui’s growth: Innovative drug sales increased by 26.09% year-on-year to RMB 16.34 billion, contributing 58.34% to total drug sales. This was driven by a robust pipeline across therapeutic areas, with oncology products contributing RMB 13.24 billion in revenue (+18.52% YoY), and non-oncology products contributing RMB 3.10 billion in revenue (+73.36% YoY).Hengrui kept innovation at its core, with R&D expenditure reaching RMB 8.72 billion in 2025, accounting for 27.58% of total revenue, of which RMB 6.96 billion was expensed. During the year, the company secured seven approvals for Class 1 innovative drug, one for a Class 2 innovative drug, and six for new indications of marketed innovative drugs. The pace of regulatory progress accelerated with 15 NDA/BLAs accepted by the NMPA. Meanwhile, 28 drug candidates entered Phase III clinical trials, 61 progressed to Phase II, and 28 NMEs entered Phase I for the first time.The company currently has over 100 proprietary innovative products in clinical development and is conducting more than 400 clinical trials. This robust portfolio will be further supported by approximately 53 innovative product and indication approvals anticipated during 2026-2028.2025 marked another year of accelerated progress in Hengrui's global expansion. Licensing revenue rose 25.62% to RMB 3.39 billion, cementing the growing global recognition and value of the company’s innovative portfolio. During the year, the company completed five overseas business development transactions for innovative drugs with leading MNCs and biotechs, highlighted by a strategic collaboration with GSK. In parallel, the company continued to advance its self-developed assets and global regulatory efforts. Multiple innovative drugs had their first global clinical trials initiated, ranging from Phase I to III.Additionally, Hengrui successfully listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, raising total gross proceeds of HK$11.4 billion (US$1.5 billion), including the over-allotment option — marking the largest pharmaceutical IPO in Hong Kong in the past five years and further strengthening its access to global capital.Looking ahead, Hengrui will continue to focus on addressing unmet clinical needs with its differentiated innovative portfolio, placing equal emphasis on independent R&D and open collaboration to expand access to innovative drugs for patients worldwide.About Hengrui PharmaHengrui Pharma is an innovative, global pharmaceutical company dedicated to the research, development and commercialization of high-quality medicines to address unmet clinical needs. Its therapeutic areas of focus include oncology, metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, immunological and respiratory diseases, and neuroscience. Driven by a patient-focused philosophy since its founding in 1970, Hengrui Pharma remains committed to advancing human health by striving to conquer diseases, improve health, and extend lives through the power of science and technology.Forward-Looking StatementsThis press release contains forward-looking statements, including statements about the company's future growth prospects and pipeline potential. These statements are based on current expectations and assumptions and do not guarantee future performance. Actual results, developments, and business decisions may differ materially from these forward-looking statements. All information in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and Hengrui undertakes no duty to update such information unless required by law. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
(AsiaGameHub) - Codere, Spain’s second-largest gambling company after Cirsa, is being offered for sale with a valuation of approximately €2 billion ($2.3 billion).
According to a report from Spanish news outlet Expansión, the company has engaged US firm Jefferies and Australia-based Macquarie Capital as financial advisors to oversee the sale process.
Sale To Complete In Summer
The process remains in its early stages, with a provisional mid-May deadline for interested parties to submit non-binding offers. Binding offers are expected to be submitted around July, with a purchase agreement finalized by August.
Established by the Martínez Sampedro family in 1980, the company has undergone multiple restructurings in recent years. Its current shareholding is now distributed among roughly 84 investment funds, with Davidson Kempner holding a 13.3% stake, followed by Palmerston Capital (5.6%), Deltroit (5.47%), System 2 Capital (5.15%), and Invesco (5.14%).
Company in Good Financial Health
A 2024 agreement with creditors converted approximately €1.2 billion of debt into equity. Gonzaga Higuero, the company’s CEO, described the deal as “a decisive success for Codere, a guarantee for the future that secures our financial position and reactivates the company’s ability to achieve its set growth objectives.”
In 2024, the group recorded revenues of €1.346 billion ($1.56 billion) and an adjusted EBITDA of €179 million ($207 million).
The company operates in seven countries: Spain, Italy, Argentina, Mexico, Panama, Colombia, and Uruguay, through both physical gambling venues and online platforms. Its business includes slot machines, bingo halls, sports betting terminals, arcades, gaming rooms, bars, and racetracks.
Its online division is listed separately on the Nasdaq but will also be included in the sale. This segment accounted for 12% of total revenue in 2024.
Spain No Longer Highest Revenue Stream
Though founded in Spain, the country’s strict stance on gambling has led to reduced revenue there. Codere was among several companies fined by Spain’s regulator last year during a gambling crackdown. The company was fined €17,500 for using unapproved technical systems.
In 2024, Italy and Mexico contributed 21% and 17% of the company’s revenue, respectively, while Spain generated around 16%.
Gambling companies in Spain must comply with stricter regulations, including displaying strongly worded warning messages similar to those on tobacco products. These measures were introduced by the country last year.
The new messages include:
Gambling addiction is a risk of gambling
The probability of being a losing gambler is 75%
Losses for all gamblers are four times greater than their winnings
Minister for Social Rights Pablo Bustinduy has led the reforms, stating that “the responsibility should not fall on users but on the authorities, who have the democratic duty to ensure that the environments they access are safe.”
It remains unclear whether Spain’s stricter gambling regulations will impact the potential sale of Codere.
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.
