Moviestore/Shutterstock(SeaPRwire) - 1936 年,《德古拉的女儿》只是如今声名显赫的环球怪物电影系列中的一部 B 级片,该系列还制作出了《木乃伊》《弗兰肯斯坦》以及当然还有《德古拉》等经典影片。《德古拉的女儿》鲜为人知,其制作过程充满波折——由于制片厂领导层变动,加之编剧、选角和拍摄方面困难重重,尤其是女主角和影片涉及的酷儿主题。有些东西似乎从未改变。然而,在仅 71 分钟的时长中呈现出来的却是一部杰作,塑造了一位影史最悲情的反派之一——扎莱斯卡伯爵夫人。鉴于她欲望的潜台词,当时的审查制度不仅要求她必须死亡,还要以某种方式将她塑造成一个食人的怪物。但多亏格洛丽亚·霍登(Gloria Holden)那双引人注目的眼睛和优雅的演绎,扎莱斯卡伯爵夫人得到了尊重,甚至令人同情。就这样,银幕上诞生了第一位酷儿吸血鬼。许多参与创作的编剧,无论是否署名,都深谙此道,因为他们曾为这一类型写过不少剧本,后来也为其他类型,尤其是恐怖片和更黑暗的女性题材电影如《贵妇人的退隐》(Ladies in Retirement)和《煤气灯下》(Gaslight)贡献过笔墨。与当时流行的西部片和黑帮片(几乎完全以男性为中心)相比,恐怖片和美剧往往更能关注女性的诉求,并引入银幕上罕见的复杂反英雄女性形象。因此,我们并非偶然地在故事中的相对无聊的英雄出现之前就见到了这位伯爵夫人,并投入到她对她的挣扎和复杂性的理解之中也就不足为奇了。本片紧接 1931 年的《德古拉》之后,玛丽娅(Marya)出现在那里,以确保她那吸血的父亲真正死去;这也是她悲剧故事的导火索。与她的父亲不同,玛丽娅真的渴望做一个好人,过上社会所认可的那种正常生活。当德古拉的身躯化为灰烬时,她欣喜若狂:“自由地作为一个女人生活!可以自由地进入光明的活人世界,而不是呆在死者的阴影里。”然而,这种决心并没有持续多久,当天晚上,她发现自己的饥饿感并未消失,于是她走了出去,遇到了一个英俊的年轻人,然后回到家中,告诉她的男仆桑多尔(由阴险、道德沦丧的欧文·皮切尔(Irving Pichel)饰演)说:“我的披风上又沾上了血迹。”当时,伯爵夫人对伦敦女性的诱惑是审查人员非常担心的事情。| The Legacy Collection/THA/Shutterstock反派往往是决定一部作品成败的关键,而所谓的好人杰弗里·加特(Jeffrey Garth,奥托·克鲁格(Otto Kruger)饰)根本没有机会。加特不仅冷漠疏离,符合那个时代典型的科学家的性格,他的严厉和不近人情似乎更像是个真正的坏人,这也成为他后来的表演特色。如果他的举止看起来更像是另一个完全不同类型片中的角色,那在很大程度上要归功于他的秘书珍妮特(Marguerite Churchill),后者常常让人联想到一位滑稽喜剧的女主人公,在与她那极度拘谨、一本正经的爱慕对象打情骂俏。可惜这部影片被迫让他表现得一本正经,不像加里·格兰特(Cary Grant)在《育婴奇谭》(Bringing Up Baby)或更准确地说《女友礼拜五》(His Girl Friday)里的表现。但是,仍然怀有正常生活希望的伯爵夫人相信加特有办法治愈她的黑暗欲望,于是她听从了他绝对糟糕的建议,正面迎击自己的痴迷,并用意志力去战胜和击败诱惑。而观众们发现,这个诱惑是一个年轻美丽的女人,露出了脖子和大片肩膀。这一幕迅速变得充满色情意味,随后的淡出镜头告诉观众,玛丽娅·扎莱斯卡已经屈服。她确实渴望成为一个凡人,并且始终无法做到这一点,部分原因在于她无法与之抗争的天性。这些暗示如此明显,以至于人们不禁想知道它怎么会通过审查制度(审查制度禁止提及任何形式的同性恋,以及其他被视为禁忌的话题)。即使在她走向我们知道影片一定会给她的最终结局的过程中,也是伯爵夫人在推动剧情发展,甚至之前电影里的英雄范·黑尔辛教授(Edward Van Sloan)都退居幕后。事实上,扎莱斯卡是如此迷人,以至于杀死她的不是那些被社会认为正直的男人,而是桑多尔,他已经彻底放弃了他的黑暗女主人将赐予他永生的希望。而加特,他在试图拯救珍妮特时冲到现场,最后也没有和她接吻。是伯爵夫人玛丽娅·扎莱斯卡说了最后的台词,镜头在她美丽的脸上停留,她将激励此后众多关于吸血鬼的故事。Dracula’s Daughter is available to rent on Prime Video and other digital platforms.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。
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(AsiaGameHub) - Aussie gambling shares are surging following the gaming operator Aristocrat's announcement of net profits of nearly $575 million (USD) for the first half of the financial year.
In its pre-audit earnings disclosure, Aristocrat reported profits increased by more than 17% compared to the previous year, and declared shareholder dividends of $0.36 per share for July.
The company’s gaming segment revenues grew almost 5% year-on-year, reaching just over $1.4 billion.
In response, share prices surged by over 13% on May 13, pushing the market capitalization above $20 billion. Trading volumes also spiked, more than doubling within 24 hours to reach 3.3 million shares.
Aristocrat outperformed most stocks on the Australian Stock Exchange on May 13, as the S&P/ASX 200 index declined 0.4%.
Aristocrat share prices on May 13. (Image: Google Finance)
While gaming stocks are generally falling in the US and Asia, certain Australian operators appear to be defying the trend. Aristocrat’s main rival, Light & Wonder, saw its share price rise by 5% on May 13, with trading volumes nearly doubling from May 12 levels.
Light & Wonder released its own quarterly results earlier this month, showing a more modest 2% increase as revenues climbed to $573 million.
Light & Wonder share prices on May 13. (Image: Google Finance)
Share prices at The Lottery Corporation rose by nearly 2%, although its trading volumes fell below the five-day average.
However, smaller Aussie operators such as Skycity experienced a decline, with prices dropping 4%.
What Has Sparked the Aussie Gambling Share Boom?
Aristocrat investors appear to have been encouraged by the company’s strong financial performance. The firm’s normalized Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, and Amortization (EBITA) rose by over 6%, surpassing AUD 1 billion.
But earnings alone are not the full story. The company is also seeking to attract stock market investment by expanding its on-market share buy-back program by an additional $726 million. The program is now valued at $1.8 million and has been extended through mid-May 2027.
The operator is also embracing artificial intelligence at a time when chip stocks are experiencing widespread growth.
“We are increasingly leveraging AI to enhance our strategic advantages and transform our processes,” CEO Trevor Croker told investors during an earnings call.
Croker also announced the appointment of new board members with backgrounds in AI leadership.
According to the media outlet Australian Financial Review, Aristocrat aims to exceed market expectations by selling access to approximately 5,000 poker machines in 2026.
After a prolonged legal dispute, Light & Wonder and Aristocrat resolved their disagreement over alleged gaming development infringements earlier this year.
The former agreed to pay Aristocrat $127.5 million after admitting it used Aristocrat’s math data to develop algorithms for the games Dragon Train and Jewel of the Dragon.
Light & Wonder agreed to cease selling Jewel of the Dragon in April of last year.
Aristocrat has been expanding its sports offerings in the US in recent years. In 2025, the company launched its NFL-themed slot titles in Puerto Rico.
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(AsiaGameHub) - The Trifecta is a type of exotic bet and one of the most potentially profitable wagers in horse racing.
To win a Trifecta, bettors must correctly predict the first three finishers in the exact order. Trifectas are available for this year’s Preakness Stakes, which is scheduled to take place on Saturday at Laurel Park in Maryland.
What Did the Preakness Stakes Trifecta Pay Out Last Year?
Let's examine the finishing results from the 2025 Preakness to understand how the Trifecta bet works.
Journalism (horse #2), Gosger (horse #9), and Sandman (horse #7) finished in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, respectively. A $1 Trifecta bet on the combination 2-9-7 resulted in a payout of $73.50.
This was a relatively modest payout, as Journalism was the 8-5 favorite, and Sandman was the second betting choice at 4-1 odds. While accurately predicting the top three finishers in precise order is challenging, there are alternative methods for placing Trifecta bets that can increase your chances of winning.
Different Types of Trifecta Bets
The example above illustrates a straight Trifecta bet. Here are other variations for making Trifecta wagers:
Trifecta Box
A Trifecta box bet allows you to wager on the first three finishers without needing to specify the exact order of finish.
By "boxing" three horses, you cover all possible winning combinations. Consequently, a $1 Trifecta box bet will cost $6. If you want to bet on horses #6, #7, and #9 to finish in the top three, you would state at the betting window: “$1 Trifecta box on 6, 7, and 9.”
The cost increases if you choose to include more horses in your box bet:
4 horses (resulting in 24 combinations): $24
5 horses (resulting in 60 combinations): $60
6 horses (resulting in 120 combinations): $120
Trifecta Key
This bet is recommended if you are highly confident that a specific horse will win the race. You designate your "key" horse to finish first and select other horses to finish second and third. For instance, if you believe horse #5 will win, and horses #7 and #9 will finish second and third, respectively.
You would place the bet by saying: “$1 Trifecta Key #5 on top of 7 and 9.” The cost of this ticket is $6.
This method allows the second and third-place finishers to come in either order, which saves money compared to boxing all possible combinations.
Trifecta Wheel
With a Trifecta wheel bet, you can select one or two horses to finish in a specific position and combine them with all possible combinations for the remaining positions. For example, if there are eight horses in the race and you believe horse #1 will win, you would say, “$1 Trifecta 1-all-all.”
This bet would cost $42 to cover every possible combination. The cost of the bet naturally increases with a larger number of horses in the race.
Biggest Preakness Trifecta Payout
The largest Trifecta payout in the modern history of the Preakness Stakes occurred in 2019 when War of Will won the race. The $1 Trifecta bet on the combination 1-10-5 paid out $4,699.80.
1st place: #1 War of Will (6-1 odds)
2nd place: #10 Everfast (29-1 odds)
3rd place: #5 Owendale (8-1 odds)
This year's Preakness Stakes is anticipated to be a highly competitive race, potentially leading to another significant payout for Trifecta bettors.
See also: Exacta Bets | Superfecta Bets
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(AsiaGameHub) - A senior regional Ukrainian post office official misappropriated funds allocated for pension and social assistance disbursements and squandered them on online gambling platforms.
According to a court announcement, the Tyachiv District Court in Zakarpattia sentenced an unnamed female Ukrposhta employee to two years of probation.
Prosecutors stated that the woman embezzled the funds in September 2022. She utilized official Ukrposhta access credentials to transfer small sums to her personal card over a 10-day period.
The woman subsequently used the entire amount for online gambling. She later filed a police report, alleging that the money had been stolen from the post office’s cash register.
Ukrainian Post Office Worker Sorry for Stealing Money
The woman eventually admitted to the offense, acknowledging that her gambling habits had led her into debt. She has since repaid the funds to Ukrposhta, which had initially covered the losses.
During sentencing, the presiding judge noted that the court had considered her “sincere remorse.” The judge further remarked that she had no prior criminal record and was the mother of two children.
The court also prohibited her from holding positions involving financial responsibility and managerial duties for two years. Additionally, she was fined 6,800 hryvnia, equivalent to $155.
An Ukrposhta branch in the Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih. (Image: Andrew J.Kurbiko [CC BY-SA 4.0])
Gambling-Addicted Dance Instructor Stole Money From Parents
The development in Zakarpattia occurred just days after a court in Ukraine’s Cherkasy Oblast sentenced a children’s dance instructor to a five-year suspended jail term for embezzling money from parents to fund online gambling.
The instructor, Viktoria Kalashnik, who choreographs for a children’s ensemble named Nadezhda, was identified as the offender, according to Ukrainian media outlet Glavcom.
In February 2025, Nadezhda won a dance competition and subsequently received an invitation to participate in an international festival in Batumi, Georgia.
Kalashnik took charge of organizing the trip and began collecting money from parents in April. A total of 26 families contributed 1,181,061 hryvnia, amounting to approximately $27,000.
However, the parents grew suspicious of Kalashnik’s behavior. The coach “repeatedly rescheduled the trip and never showed them travel tickets,” as stated by prosecutors.
The parents eventually visited Kalashnik’s home, where the instructor confessed to losing the money.
During the trial, Kalashnik again admitted to losing the funds and stated that she suffered from pathological gambling addiction.
“I won on my first visit to an online casino,” she told the court. “After that, I couldn’t stop. I lost my own money and my parents’ cash, too.”
Prior to the trial, Kalashnik partially compensated the parents, paying back around $3,000.
A branch of the Sosnovsky District Court found Kalashnik guilty of large-scale fraud and suspended her jail sentence for three years.
The presiding judge also ordered Kalashnik to pay financial compensation and moral damages fines totaling $27,300.
Earlier this year, PlayCity, Ukraine’s gambling regulator, imposed a $10,000 fine on the operator of the sports betting and online slots brand Betking, Slots UA.
PlayCity cited failure to provide financial data “in a timely manner” as the reason for the penalty.
The regulator has also recently revoked the license of the Cosmolot online casino operator Spaceiks.
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(AsiaGameHub) - Leading Macao casino share prices are declining or remaining flat following disappointing first-quarter earnings from major operators.
Galaxy Entertainment Group’s pre-audit report indicated an 11% year-on-year increase in net revenue to nearly $1.6 billion, according to Japanese-language outlet Macau Shimbun. However, the company also experienced a 10% decline in revenue compared to the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2025.
Gross gaming revenue rose on a year-over-year basis, but it dropped by 9% sequentially.
The firm reported increases in mass gaming, VIP room, and slots revenues compared to the previous year. However, these segments also declined in the most recent quarter. The most significant drop was in VIP revenue, which fell by 25% since the start of the calendar year.
Galaxy’s net liabilities stood at $345 million, with cash and liquid investments amounting to approximately $4.7 billion before audit adjustments.
The company is currently developing new dining, lifestyle, leisure, and retail facilities at its Galaxy Macau resort. This project includes opening new casino spaces and adding a new hotel with 1,350 rooms.
Additionally, Galaxy has begun renovating its StarWorld Hotel on the Macao Peninsula, which involves remodeling two casino floors. The company expects the StarWorld renovation to be completed by the end of Q1 2027.
Galaxy Entertainment Group share prices on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange over the past five days. (Image: Google Finance)
Macao Casino Earnings: SJM Holdings Revenues Drop 21%
Earlier this month, the same media outlet reported that SJM Holdings, another Hong Kong-listed operator holding a Macao casino concession, also saw sequential revenue declines.
SJM operates multiple casino properties under the Lisboa brand.
SJM Holdings share prices on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange over the past five days. (Image: Google Finance)
Company filings show that SJM’s net revenue for Q1 this year was $754 million, down 21.1% year-on-year. Gross gambling revenue also decreased by nearly 19%.
Profit attributable to parent company shareholders fell from a surplus of $4 million to a deficit of almost $8 million.
The company’s share of Macao’s total casino revenue declined by 3.9 percentage points to just under 10%.
In contrast, rival MGM China earlier reported a 10% year-on-year rise in revenues for Q1, alongside a decrease in VIP spending.
Gaming shares have also weakened globally despite a broader stock market rally.
While high-growth tech stocks propelled the S&P 500 Index to record highs, popular exchange-traded funds focused on gambling fell by more than 3%.
In Hong Kong, MGM China shares dropped 1.6% on May 12, while Wynn Macau declined by 0.7%.
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(AsiaGameHub) - SBC Summit Canada is set to return to Toronto next week during a transformative period for the nation's gambling sector. Key discussions will focus on the upcoming launch of Alberta's regulated market, increasing pressure regarding advertising limits, and the high expectations surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre from May 19-21, this year’s event is the first since rebranding from the Canadian Gaming Summit. More than 3,000 industry professionals are expected to participate in the only event in the country focused exclusively on the betting and gaming sectors.
With Alberta’s regulated market scheduled to open in June, suppliers, affiliates, and operators are moving quickly to establish their presence in what is projected to be a major North American gaming hub. Simultaneously, the industry is navigating uncertainty from Bill S-211 and proposed advertising bans, while the 2026 FIFA World Cup offers a significant chance for sportsbooks to engage with the country's growing interest in soccer.
These industry shifts will drive the summit’s three-stage conference program, which includes tracks dedicated to leadership, sports wagering, lottery and land-based gaming, marketing and affiliates, payments, and regulatory compliance.
The schedule also features two specialized tracks on player safety and cybersecurity. The Cybersecurity in Gaming Summit, hosted by OLG, will analyze how companies are addressing digital threats, managing AI-related risks, and improving organizational security. Meanwhile, the Player Protection Symposium will look at moving beyond basic regulatory compliance to foster more proactive strategies for player health.
Other sessions will explore how operators can turn World Cup interest into long-term customer loyalty, the evolution of omnichannel strategies for land-based and lottery brands, and how firms can prepare for regulatory changes in Alberta and advertising reform.
The event will also host several masterclasses on vital operational and legal topics. IMGL will lead sessions on quasi-gambling and grey market activities in Canada, while Lucien Wijsman will conduct workshops on player psychology, pricing models, and the synergy between digital and physical casinos.
Over the two-day conference, attendees will hear from a lineup of more than 150 expert speakers. Wednesday’s program begins with an address from Duncan Hannay (President, OLG), followed by a keynote from Nell Watson (Chief Scientist, EthicsNet / Creed Space) regarding the impact of autonomous AI on trust and security in gaming. Ahead of the June market launch in Alberta, Dale Nally (Minister of Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction) will provide insights into the province's new iGaming framework.
The speaker roster also includes Jennifer Aguiar (Chief Compliance Officer, DraftKings), Jared Beber (CEO, Bet99), Tom Burdakin (VP of Marketing, FanDuel), Stan Cho (Minister of Tourism & Gaming, Ontario), Andrew Garven (Head of Affiliate Marketing, Bet99), Joseph Hillier (CEO, iGaming Ontario), Yohan Mathew (Director of Marketing, BetMGM), Andrew Moreno (Assistant Vice President of Business Development and Government Affairs, bet365), Scott Vanderwel (CEO, PointsBet Canada), Tim Whitehead (Sportsbook Director, DraftKings), and Mark Wrigley (Head of Betting, F1).
The exhibition floor will feature the organizations driving the future of the Canadian gaming market, providing attendees with access to the latest services and technologies. Participants can explore new product launches and engage with the teams behind them. Confirmed exhibitors include Altenar, Gigadat, iGaming Ontario, Bet Rite, Payper, Soft2Bet, Top Alliance, Optimove, Paramount Commerce, and others.
Reflecting on the upcoming summit, Rasmus Sojmark, CEO & Founder of SBC, noted: “The Canadian gaming industry is currently experiencing significant momentum, which is evident in the high caliber of our speakers and the quality of the agenda. We are excited to host thousands of delegates in Toronto for what will be our most ambitious Canadian event yet.”
In addition to the conference and exhibition, the summit offers various on-site networking opportunities. Highlights include the Global Gaming Women Breakfast on May 20 and the First Nations Breakfast on May 21, along with several networking lounges located throughout the venue.
VIP Event Pass holders will also have access to two exclusive evening functions:
SBC Summit Canada Opening Party — May 19 at RS Sports Bar (badge pickup available)
SBC Summit Canada Official Networking Party — May 20 at The Rec Room
For more information prior to the event, SBC’s Tom Nightingale (Editor, Canadian Gaming Business) recently appeared on iGaming Daily to discuss the current state of the Canadian market and the regulatory topics expected to lead the conversation at SBC Summit Canada.
Registration is now open for those wishing to attend SBC Summit Canada.
*VIP Event Pass holders also receive entry to the co-located Canada Fintech Symposium, an event exploring the intersection of financial innovation, compliance, and payments within regulated sectors.
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(AsiaGameHub) - Legal hurdles are a daily occurrence for prediction markets. The most recent lawsuit targeting Kalshi has been initiated by a coalition of New Mexico tribes.
Concurrently, legislators in Minnesota have passed a bill designed to outlaw various prediction markets, specifically those concerning elections and sports.
The lawsuit was filed by the Mescalero Apache Tribe, Pueblo of Isleta, Pueblo of Pojoaque, and Pueblo of Sandia. They accuse Kalshi of breaching Indian gaming compacts through the provision of unlawful gaming operations.
Tribes Allege Kalshi Facilitates Unlawful Sports Wagering
Kalshi contends its platform differs from sports betting, citing that it neither functions as the house nor directly accepts wagers. This assertion has been dismissed by the tribes.
“Determining if an activity qualifies as 'gaming' under IGRA is not contingent on whether participants wager against the 'house' or one another,” the lawsuit asserts.
The filing also references a past statement from a Kalshi attorney: “Contracts pertaining to games are likely unsuitable for listing on an exchange, as they lack genuine economic utility.”
It further notes, “The sports event contracts offered by Kalshi possess all the defining traits anticipated by sports bettors in gambling: moneyline bets (predicting the winner), over/unders (total combined points), point spreads (margin of victory), prop bets (specific in-game events), and parlays (combined outcomes).”
Consequently, the tribes contend that sports prediction markets warrant classification as sports betting. Current New Mexico statutes restrict legal sports wagering to in-person transactions at tribal casinos.
Varying Outcomes for Other Tribal Litigation
This marks the third instance of tribal entities suing Kalshi, succeeding previous legal actions filed in California and Wisconsin last year.
In Wisconsin, a judge denied Kalshi's request to dismiss the lawsuit filed by the Ho Chunk Nation, a case backed by tribal organizations nationwide.
Meanwhile, the Ninth Circuit in California declined the tribes' motion to consolidate their appeal with a Nevada prediction market case.
The Blue Lake Rancheria, Chicken Ranch Rancheria of Me-Wuk Indians, and Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians had petitioned the Ninth Circuit to route their appeal against Kalshi and Robinhood to the panel overseeing the Nevada litigation.
Nevada has proven the most effective state in combating prediction markets, standing alone in compelling Kalshi to exit the market.
“Given the substantial distinctions between this appeal and North American Derivatives Exchange, Inc. v. State of Nevada … the motion to transfer this appeal to the panel that heard argument in that matter … is DENIED,” a court order declared.
Minnesota Enacts Prohibition on Sports Prediction Markets
In other developments, Minnesota legislators have approved a bill specifically outlawing sports prediction markets. The House passed SF4760 with a 100-32 vote, following a prior 57-9 approval in the Senate.
This legislation is part of a broader Public Safety policy package. The provisions addressing prediction markets would bar operators from facilitating contracts on the following topics:
Sports & Games: Athletic competitions, individual player performance, and games utilizing cards, dice, or electronics.
Crises & Disasters: Conflicts, emergencies, disasters, shootings, terror, and health crises.
Human Events: Specific events involving individuals or groups.
Government & Politics: Elections and behavior of officials/agencies.
Legal Proceedings: Lawsuits, trials, settlements, verdicts.
Violence & Mortality: Deaths, assassinations, mass casualty events.
Weather: Short-term forecasts and environmental events.
Pop Culture: Awards and release dates.
Statements: Forecasts regarding specific utterances by individuals.
The bill now awaits the signature of Governor Tim Walz. Upon enactment, state officials would gain the authority to issue cease-and-desist orders to non-compliant firms. Kalshi is a probable target for such an order and would likely retaliate by filing suit against the state.
Kalshi maintains that state regulations are inapplicable, asserting that its operations fall under the jurisdiction of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). The CFTC has pledged to support licensed operators and has intervened in legal battles across multiple states.
The controversy surrounding the legality of sports prediction markets persists. Attorney Melinda Roth remarked this week that while the CFTC is the fitting regulator for sports-event contracts, the final decision on lawfulness rests with the Supreme Court.
A ruling is not anticipated before 2027. Until then, anticipate continued litigation and legislative attempts to curb activities viewed by many as illicit sports betting.
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(AsiaGameHub) - JP Morgan Chase has increased its shareholding in Entain, indicating that the UK betting giant remains an attractive target for high-profile investors, particularly following the dissolution of major shareholder Eminence Capital.
A filing with the London Stock Exchange confirmed that JP Morgan Chase has raised its stake in Entain to 7% of the company’s total stock. This comprises 5.6% in direct voting rights and an additional 1.4% held through financial instruments.
On Friday, May 8, the day JP Morgan Chase surpassed the 5% minimum reporting threshold, Entain’s share price reached a peak of £5.42. At this valuation, the firm’s total investment in Entain could have been worth up to £244.9 million.
However, Entain’s share price has experienced a slight decline in subsequent days, currently trading at £5.26 per share as of this article’s publication.
JP Morgan cashing in on Entain?
The acquisition by a major multinational bank like JP Morgan Chase, a Dow Jones and S&P 100 constituent with over $4.7 trillion in assets, could signal confidence in Entain’s long-term viability.
Entain’s shares faced pressure in early May after Eminence Capital, a New York-based hedge fund with over 25 years of activity, ceased operations. Eminence was previously Entain’s third-largest shareholder, holding a 6.5% stake, behind Capital Group and Dodge & Cox.
Following the fund’s closure, Eminence founder Ricky Sandler resigned as a Non-Executive Director of Entain. He subsequently divested his remaining shares on May 7, reducing his holdings in the company from 5.8% to zero.
Like many other publicly listed and privately held gambling companies, Entain faces significant challenges in 2026.
The company’s primary market is the UK, where its prominent Ladbrokes and Coral brands operate thousands of high-street betting shops and popular online betting and gaming platforms.
Entain’s strong UK presence has exposed it to the increase in Remote Gaming Duty (RGD) from 21% to 40% this April, a measure introduced for the betting and gaming industry by HM Treasury’s November 2025 Autumn Budget.
Crucially, and potentially a source of confidence for Entain and its investors, the company’s extensive network of betting shops is exempt from both the RGD increase and next year’s rise in General Betting Duty. Despite this, the company has still implemented retail cutbacks across its UK-and-Ireland division.
The UK industry is also grappling with criticism regarding advertising practices and the prevalence of high-street betting and gaming establishments in local communities. It remains uncertain whether the recent local election results, which saw gains for the more pro-industry Reform UK and anti-industry Green parties, will alter this landscape.
Entain ever subject to speculation
With Entain’s share price down 31.8% year-to-date, it is plausible that JP Morgan Chase is capitalizing on cheaper shares, potentially anticipating a rebound for the firm this year.
Despite reporting multi-million-pound losses for the third consecutive year in 2025, Entain did show some positive performance last year, with group-wide revenue increasing by 3% to £5.25 billion and UK and Irish revenue rising by 6% to £2.19 billion.
Rumours of a potential sale of the company also persist, suggesting that investors like JP Morgan Chase might be hoping to profit from a future transaction involving high-profile brands such as Ladbrokes and Coral.
However, as Entain’s leadership has not indicated any interest in a sale, any such rumours can only be considered speculation for the time being.
Nevertheless, Entain has been an acquisition target in the past, though it has proven notoriously difficult to acquire. In 2021, leadership rejected MGM Resorts International’s $11.1 billion (£8.1 billion) bid, deeming it to ‘significantly undervalue’ the company.
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NEW YORK, USA AND ABU DHABI, UAE, May 13, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Sherlocq, the first AI-native regulatory intelligence platform for global financial services, today announced its public launch. Designed for compliance officers, lawyers, risk professionals, and regulators who operate at the intersection of law, governance, and institutional accountability, Sherlocq delivers regulatory intelligence that is precise, traceable, and usable at institutional scale.The launch marks the emergence of a new category in enterprise AI: regulatory intelligence, a vertical distinct from generic AI assistants, conventional regtech monitoring tools, and document management platforms. Sherlocq has been built from the ground up to meet the security, privacy, and domain standards that regulated institutions require, and which no general-purpose AI platform has been designed to deliver.THE PROBLEMFinancial institutions, law firms, regulators, and consultants collectively spend over $300 billion every year on regulatory compliance. More than ten million professionals carry the weight of that complexity daily, tracking regulatory changes across dozens of jurisdictions, reviewing thousands of documents, and making high-stakes decisions that can determine the fate of institutions and individuals alike.Until now, the tools available have been fundamentally inadequate: monitoring without interpretation, alerts without answers, search without synthesis. Regulatory research has remained a largely manual process for decades. Vertical AI has already demonstrated category-defining value in adjacent domains. Regulatory intelligence represents a larger, more global, and more complex opportunity.Sherlocq changes that.THE PLATFORMAt launch, Sherlocq covers the regulatory output of governments, supervisory authorities, and enforcement bodies across 30+ jurisdictions, including the US, UK, UAE, Singapore, and Hong Kong. It ingests, structures, and indexes this information continuously, so when a compliance officer, lawyer, or risk professional asks a question, Sherlocq returns a precise, sourced, and traceable answer in seconds. Research that previously required hours of manual work across multiple sources is completed in under a minute.The platform launches with three live capabilities:Regulatory Research and Analysis - Multi-jurisdiction research, cross-border regulatory comparison, compliance framework analysis, and obligation mapping across the full spectrum of financial services regulation, covering all major regulated financial centres.Document Intelligence - Structured review, gap assessment, benchmarking, and policy analysis against applicable regulatory standards, available on the native Sherlocq platform.Sanctions Intelligence - Real-time, multi-regime sanctions research across OFAC, OFSI, EU, UAE, and 320+ data sources in a single query, with full source traceability. The first AI-native platform to deliver this level of depth and auditability across multiple sanctions regimes simultaneously.Sherlocq is available on web, iOS, and Android, for individual professionals and enterprise organisations. AI connectors are live for Claude and ChatGPT, enabling regulatory research to be accessed directly within the tools professionals already use. Microsoft Copilot and Google Gemini integrations follow shortly.Sherlocq is certified to ISO 27001 and ISO 27701 standards, meeting the security and data privacy requirements of regulated financial institutions globally.FOUNDER'S STATEMENT"I have spent my career sitting across the table from regulators, leading investigations at the highest levels, and advising institutions in the most consequential moments of their existence. In every one of those engagements, the same problem recurred: brilliant professionals, at world-class institutions, spending most of their time on research and cross-referencing that should have been automated years ago. Not because the technology did not exist. Because no one had built it with the rigour, the domain depth, and the institutional trust that this work demands. That is what we built. Sherlocq is not a general AI tool adapted for compliance. It is the intelligence infrastructure that this industry has always needed and never had," said Bhavin Shah, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Sherlocq.ABOUT THE FOUNDERBhavin Shah is a globally recognised regulatory and compliance leader with over twenty years of experience advising sovereigns, regulators, boards, and financial institutions across their most complex and politically sensitive challenges. His career spans multi-jurisdiction investigations, AML and financial crime reform, regulatory negotiations, crisis management, and governance advisory across the US, UK, Middle East, and Asia Pacific. He has advised some of the world's most consequential regulatory reform processes and financial institutions at moments of institutional stress, enforcement risk, and strategic transformation.Shah is a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader (2020), a board member of the D2A2 digital assets and AI policy forum, and holds executive education credentials from Harvard Business School and Harvard Kennedy School. He serves as an independent non-executive director on the boards of regulated financial institutions, giving him direct and ongoing insight into the governance, compliance, and regulatory pressures that Sherlocq is designed to address.INDUSTRY VOICES"Regulatory complexity has been accelerating for years and this is only compounding with the recent trends toward fragmentation around the globe. The tools available to compliance professionals have not kept pace. Sherlocq addresses that gap in a way that is substantive, not superficial. What distinguishes this platform is that it has been built with a genuine understanding of how regulated institutions work and what they actually need to be more effective and more efficient. The depth, the traceability, and the institutional-grade approach reflect the kind of rigour that regulators and boards rightly expect. I am proud to support Bhavin and the Sherlocq team as they bring this important product to market," said Bryan Stirewalt, Former Chief Executive, Dubai Financial Services Authority; Former National Bank Examiner, Office of the Comptroller of the Currency; Board Advisor, Sherlocq."Running a banking group across more than 35 markets meant living with regulatory complexity as a daily operational reality. Our teams were talented and diligent but the tools available forced them into a process that was slow, fragmented and heavily manual. Sherlocq solves that problem. It gives compliance and legal professionals the structured multi-jurisdictional intelligence that I would have wanted for my team. This is the platform the industry has always needed,” said Arnold Ekpe, Former Group Chief Executive Officer, Ecobank Group; Board Advisor, Sherlocq.ABOUT SHERLOCQSherlocq Inc. is a US-incorporated AI technology company (Delaware) with principal offices in New York and Abu Dhabi, UAE, and the creator of the first AI-native regulatory intelligence platform purpose-built for global financial services. The company has completed a pre-seed financing round backed by investors across the US, UAE, and Europe. Designed for compliance officers, lawyers, risk professionals, regulators, and governance teams, the platform delivers multi-jurisdiction regulatory research, document intelligence, and sanctions intelligence, with workflow automation and deeper enterprise capabilities on the near-term roadmap. Sherlocq is certified to ISO 27001 and ISO 27701 standards and is available globally on web, iOS, and Android. Financial institutions, law firms, and professional services organisations seeking enterprise access are invited to contact hello@sherlocq.com. sherlocq.com | sherlocq.ai | hello@sherlocq.com MEDIA CONTACTFor media enquiries, interview requests with Bhavin Shah, or access to additional materials including product demonstrations, founder biography, and platform assets:Press contact: press@sherlocq.com Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
BILLUND, DENMARK, May 13, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - At the LEGO Foundation's annual meeting, the Board of Directors elected Agnete Kirk Kristiansen as Chair of the Board. As fourth generation member of the Kirk Kristiansen family, owners of the LEGO Group, she becomes only the fifth Chair of the Foundation since it was founded in 1986.Agnete Kirk Kristiansen has served as Deputy Chair of the LEGO Foundation since 2023 and replaces her brother Thomas Kirk Kristiansen who steps down to assume the position of Deputy Chair. In addition to her role at the LEGO Foundation, Agnete Kirk Kristiansen also serves as Deputy Chair of KIRKBI A/S, the family-owned holding and investment company that owns 75% of the LEGO Group.As ascending Chair, Agnete Kirk Kristiansen highlighted the role of the LEGO Foundation in building a brighter tomorrow for children around the world:I am truly honored to step into the role as Chair of the LEGO Foundation and to continue our important work for children. The foundation holds a very special place in our family and has done so ever since it was established more than 40 years ago. A deep sense of responsibility to make a positive difference for children runs through our family and I strongly believe that every child should have the opportunity to thrive and grow. I am proud to contribute to this mission and help carry it forward.The change in chair takes place the year after Agnete stepped into the role as chair of non-profit foundation Ole Kirk's Fond. With the transition, the fourth generation of the owner family is broadening its engagement and commitment to active ownership.Descending Chair Thomas Kirk Kristiansen said:It has been a privilege to chair the LEGO Foundation for the past 10 years, and I am very happy to now pass on the role to Agnete. She is deeply committed to the LEGO Foundation mission, and I know she will do her utmost to further the cause of securing a childhood for all. During her tenure as Deputy Chair, she has played an integral part in shaping the foundation's current strategy and as she steps into the role as Chair, we further widen the active ownership and engagement from the family across the LEGO ecosystem.Thomas Kirk Kristiansen has served as Chair of the LEGO Foundation since 2016 and in that period the foundation has committed grants of more than DKK 15 billion (EUR 2 billion) through partner organisations across the globe to improve children's outcomes.For 40 years, the LEGO Foundation has been focused on giving back and building a better world for children. We are very mindful of the trust families and communities place in us, and it is not a responsibility we take lightly. Even in the most challenging settings, the foundation can help put a smile on a child's face, lift up learners of all abilities and change life paths. We do so with the utmost sensitivity and responsibility, said Agnete Kirk Kristiansen.In addition to safeguarding the continued development and success of the LEGO Group as part-owner, the LEGO Foundation pursues its philanthropic mission to support initiatives within education, research, and child development through funding of and close collaboration with organisations such as Brac, IRC, UNICEF, Save the Children, Norwegian Refugee Council and others.Further changes to the LEGO Foundation BoardIn addition to Agnete and Thomas Kirk Kristiansen changing roles as Chair and Deputy Chair, the LEGO Foundation Board of Directors at its May meeting also elected as member of the Board Ingrid Stange, who brings a wealth of experience in philanthropy, education and non-profit leadership. Further, both Jørgen Vig Knudstorp, former CEO of the LEGO Group, and El Hadji Amadou Gueye Sy (As), former Secretary-General of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, left the Board after 16 and four years of service respectively to the LEGO Foundation.Thomas Kirk Kristiansen thanked the two departing Board members for their long-standing commitment to the foundation:We look very much forward to welcoming Ingrid, who brings highly complementary expertise to the board. At the same time, I thank As for bringing invaluable insights and experience to help shape our work.I would also like to extend my sincerest gratitude to Jørgen for his unwavering dedication to the foundation. During his extensive tenure, Jørgen has been instrumental in defining our vision and strategy while never losing sight of the children we are here to serve.Additionally, Malou Aamund, who has served on the Board since 2021, stepped into the role of Second Deputy Chair of the Foundation.Biography: Agnete Kirk KristiansenLEGO Foundation2026 - Chair of the Board of Directors2023 - 2026 Second Deputy Chair of the Board of DirectorsFrom 2008 Member of the Board of DirectorsKIRKBI A/S2024 - Deputy Chair of the BoardCentre for ADHD+, Aarhus, DenmarkFounderOle Kirk's Fond2025 - Chair of the BoardDegreePsychology, Aarhus University, 2010Additional roles, present and past:Executive Manager, KIRK83 Holding ApSMember of the Advisory Board, RucaRepresentative of the fourth generation of the LEGO owner familyExtensive experience in family-owned companies, long-term stewardship and board workLEGO Foundation Board of DirectorsAgnete Kirk Kristiansen - ChairThomas Kirk Kristiansen - First Deputy ChairMalou Aamund - Second Deputy ChairHilary Pennington - Member of the BoardIngrid Stange - Member of the BoardLEGO Foundation Board of Directors Chairs1986 - 1993: Gotfred Kirk Kristiansen (2nd-generation LEGO owner)1993 - 2000: Bent Skov2000 - 2016: Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen (3rd-generation LEGO owner)2016 - 2026: Thomas Kirk Kristiansen (4th-generation LEGO owner)2026 - Agnete Kirk Kristiansen (4th-generation LEGO owner)About LEGO Fonden:The LEGO Foundation is a Danish corporate foundation entrusted with 25 % ownership of the LEGO Group. The Foundation works with partners around the world to support children's needs and champion the dignity of childhood. Through both philanthropic donations and impact investments the Foundation exists to build the conditions and create the space for every child, everywhere, to thrive and grow. More information about the LEGO Foundation can be found at: https://www.legofoundation.com/Contact information:Mads Hvitved Grandmads.hvitved.grand@legofoundation.comSOURCE: LEGO Fonden Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
Highlights:According to third-party industry reports, the U.S. RPM market is currently $14 Billion alone and expected to reach approximately $29 Billion by 2030, representing a 12.6% CAGR, as healthcare providers continue shifting toward value-based and home-based care models¹Pilot initiative launched across multiple provider offices focused on chronic care management (CCM) and remote patient monitoring (RPM) through it's MSO infrastructureApproximately 1,500+ claims generated to date through the pilot infrastructure with expansion roadmap targeting additional providersWellgistics Pharmacy Network of 6,500+ independent pharmacies positioned to support patient engagement and care coordination initiativesParticipating pharmacists expected to gain access to new clinical service revenue opportunitiesTAMPA, FLA., May 13, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Wellgistics Health, Inc. (NASDAQ:WGRX) ("Wellgistics" or the "Company"), a leading healthcare technology and pharmaceutical distribution company, today announced a pilot collaboration with Kare PharmTech and Kare Clinicals integrating its MSO infrastructure to support chronic care management ("CCM") and remote patient monitoring ("RPM") services across participating provider offices. According to third-party industry reports, the U.S. RPM market is currently $14 Billion and expected to reach approximately $29 Billion by 2030, representing a 12.6% CAGR, as healthcare providers continue shifting toward value-based and home-based care models.¹The pilot program currently includes multiple provider offices, with Kare Clinicals MSO serving as the billing provider on behalf of participating offices and rendering providers. The initiative is designed to support patient engagement, care coordination, and longitudinal monitoring programs through scalable operational and technology-enabled workflows. All CCM and RPM services are expected to be furnished and billed by appropriately licensed providers and participating entities in accordance with applicable federal and state healthcare laws, reimbursement requirements, and payor program rules.The companies stated that the pilot infrastructure has already generated 1,500+ claims and is intended to serve as the foundation for broader expansion efforts targeting approximately additional providers over time. As part of the collaboration, Wellgistics Health intends to leverage its network of more than 6,500 independent pharmacies to help identify and support eligible patients who may benefit from CCM and RPM services. Participating pharmacies within the Wellgistics Pharmacy Network may also have opportunities to participate in clinical engagement initiatives associated with the program.Prashant Patel, President and CEO of Wellgistics Health, Inc., stated, "We believe the convergence of pharmacy engagement, provider connectivity, and technology-enabled care coordination represents a significant opportunity to improve patient outcomes while creating new economic opportunities for independent pharmacies. Through this pilot collaboration with Kare PharmTech, we are establishing infrastructure designed to support scalable patient engagement models across chronic care management and remote patient monitoring programs."Mital Panera, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Kare PharmTech, added, "Our focus has been on building an operationally efficient MSO platform capable of supporting providers with care coordination and reimbursement workflows. By collaborating with Wellgistics Health and its pharmacy network, we believe we can further expand patient participation, improve continuity of care, and create a scalable framework for future provider growth."The companies noted that the pilot program remains subject to ongoing operational development, provider participation, and regulatory compliance considerations as expansion efforts continue.About Wellgistics Health, Inc.Wellgistics Health (NASDAQ:WGRX) is a health information technology leader, integrating proprietary pharmacy dispensing optimization artificial intelligence platform EinsteinRx™ into its patented blockchain-enabled smart contracts platform PharmacyChain™ to optimize the prescription drug dispensing journey. Its integrated platform connects 6,500+ pharmacies (the "Wellgistics Pharmacy Network") and 200+ manufacturers, offering wholesale distribution, digital prescription routing, direct-to-patient delivery, and AI-powered hub services such as eligibility, adherence, onboarding, prior authorization, and cash-pay fulfillment as needed to optimize patient access. Wellgistics provides end-to-end solutions designed to restore access, transparency, and trust in the U.S. prescription drug market for independent pharmacies.About Kare PharmTech, LLCKare Clinicals is part of the larger ecosystem of companies owned by Kare PharmTech, LLC, a company controlled by Dr. Kiran Patel. Dr. Patel founded Medicaid provider WellCare in 1992 and sold it in 2002 for $200 million. In 2007, Dr. Patel founded America's 1st Choice Holdings and acquired Freedom Health and Optimum Holdings. In 2017, he sold America's 1st Choice Holdings to Anthem, Inc. Dr. Patel is a noted philanthropist and was named Floridian of the Year by Florida Trend Magazine.Forward-Looking StatementsThis press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding the Company's expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, intentions, strategies, future events, or performance, including statements regarding the potential benefits, scalability, expansion, commercialization, provider participation, reimbursement opportunities, patient engagement initiatives, operational capabilities, and future development of the pilot collaboration with Kare PharmTech and Kare Clinicals, as well as the anticipated role of the Wellgistics Pharmacy Network in supporting CCM and RPM initiatives. Words such as "anticipate," "believe," "could," "expect," "intend," "may," "plan," "potential," "project," "seek," "should," "will," and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements.These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and assumptions and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, risks relating to provider adoption and participation, reimbursement outcomes, patient engagement levels, operational execution, scalability of the pilot program, regulatory and healthcare compliance considerations, changes in applicable laws or reimbursement policies, market acceptance of the Company's services, competitive factors, and the Company's ability to develop and maintain strategic relationships and successfully implement its business strategy.The pilot collaboration described in this press release is exploratory in nature, and there can be no assurance that the initiative will result in expanded commercial relationships, material revenue opportunities, or long-term operational success.Additional information regarding these and other risks can be found in the Company's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including the risk factors contained therein. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law.Wellgistics Media & Investor ContactMedia: media@wellgisticshealth.comInvestor Relations: IR@wellgisticshealth.com[1] MarketsandMarkets - U.S. Remote Patient Monitoring Market ReportSOURCE: Wellgistics Health, Inc. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
(AsiaGameHub) - Gambling in Oklahoma will likely stay in a regulatory gray area for the foreseeable future, as Governor Kevin Stitt vetoed a proposed ban on sweepstakes casinos. The action comes shortly after lawmakers rejected legislation to legalize sports betting in the state.
Both the House and Senate passed the bill that would explicitly ban sweepstakes casinos. The Senate approved SB1589 by a 48-0 vote in early March, while the House voted 65-21 in favor of the bill last week.
Gov. Stitt, however, broke with the bipartisan consensus and vetoed the new law on Monday. The governor has not released an official statement explaining why he rejected the legislation. He posted on X that he considered “each bill with care and intention, thinking of the families, communities, and future generations who will be impacted.”
As I complete my final bill review meetings as Governor, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude. The process has meant weighing each bill with care and intention, thinking of the families, communities, and future generations who will be impacted. What a privilege this… pic.twitter.com/pUOuSPhS6B— Governor Kevin Stitt (@GovStitt) May 13, 2026
First elected in 2018, Gov. Stitt’s term in office will end in January of next year. He has long strongly opposed expanding gambling in the state through tribal compacts, and has stated he will veto any bill that grants a monopoly to tribes.
Stitt’s veto of the sweepstakes ban may stem from a concern that it would strengthen the tribes’ exclusive rights to offer gambling in Oklahoma, mirroring other arrangements he has opposed.
Bill Would Have Prohibited Dual-Currency Gambling
The legislation would have explicitly banned platforms from offering online casino games through a dual-currency system. However, it carved out an exception “as provided in the Oklahoma Charity Games Act or asotherwise authorized to be conducted on Indian lands in compliance with the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.”
This specific provision of the legislation is likely what led Gov. Stitt to refuse to sign the ban into law. In theory, the exception could have allowed tribes to launch and operate online casino games using dual currencies.
Non-tribal groups that operated sweepstakes casinos would have faced a Class C2 felony charge, with fines ranging from $500 to $2,000 and potential imprisonment.
Tribal Push For Sports Betting Also Rejected
Gov. Stitt has also been public that he will veto any legislation that grants tribes the right to offer regulated sports betting in the state.
“I will absolutely veto any bill that creates a monopoly or protects one at the expense of a fair, open market,” Stitt said. “We need a plan that works for all four million Oklahomans, not just a few special interests.”
Lawmakers came closer than ever before to legalizing sports betting in Oklahoma, which remains one of the few U.S. states without any legal retail or online sports wagering.
However, the sports betting legislation never reached Gov. Stitt’s desk. The House approved HB1047 in a 62-31 vote at the end of March, but the Senate voted it down in a 27-21 vote last month.
The bill proposed allowing tribes to offer both in-person and online sports betting through commercial partners such as DraftKings and FanDuel. Tribes would have kept the majority of the revenue but would have given 8% of earnings back to the state.
New Governor Could Bring Changes to Gambling Laws
As Gov. Stitt’s term comes to a close, a new Governor could lead the state to finally legalize sports betting. Prediction market Kalshi currently gives the Republican Party a 92.7% chance of winning the upcoming gubernatorial race.
Top candidates include Attorney General Gentner Drummond, who has publicly opposed unregulated sports prediction markets.
“This is unequivocally gambling, which means it belongs under State authority,” Drummond said. “States have long had the right and responsibility to protect their own citizens from the dangers of gambling, and that should continue to hold true whether bets take place on a prediction market or inside a traditional casino.”
This stance suggests Drummond may favor legalizing sports betting overseen by state authority, though whether that framework would be run through tribes remains to be seen. A survey last year showed he is the leading candidate with 35% of voter support, just ahead of Charles McCall at 33%.
McCall has historically supported a Tribal-centric model for sports betting legalization. He believes the path to legal sports betting must go through the existing tribal gaming compacts, as the tribes are the state’s long-standing partners.
Either way, Oklahomans will continue to be able to use unregulated sweepstakes casinos and prediction markets, but will remain barred from accessing legal sportsbooks for the foreseeable future.
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(AsiaGameHub) - Germany-headquartered operator bet-at-home has reported a challenging start to 2026 as first quarter revenues declined sharply following the impact of Austria’s betting tax increase.
Gross betting and gaming revenue (GGR) for Q1 2026 fell 16.1% year-on-year to €11.34m (£9.83m), down from €13.52m in the corresponding period last year.
The decline was driven primarily by weaker online sports betting performance, with sportsbook GGR falling from €12.01m to €9.63m.
Despite the significant sportsbook drop, the company expects this summer’s 2026 FIFA World Cup to provide a boost to customer activity later in the year.
The financial results are the first since the company was cast aside by sports entertainment giant Banijay Group, which sold its majority 53.9% controlling stake in the business, finalised on 2 January.
This move by Banijay was made to focus on the development of its new Banijay Gaming unit, formed by the merger of Betclic and Tipico Sportwetten.
Regulations stifle progress
Much of the decline was, according to leadership, down to Austria’s betting tax increase from 2% to 5% of stakes, which came into effect on 1 April 2025.
In further regulatory woes for the business, Germany’s Interstate Treaty on Gambling (GlüStV 2021), which has rules including a €1,000 monthly deposit cap, a 5.3% stake tax, €1 slot stake limits and 5-second spin rules, remains in place.
An ongoing review is set to be complete by the end of the year, but until an update is issued, such intense regulation will remain in place in bet-at-home’s domestic market.
“The results of the bet-at-home.com AG Group in the first quarter of 2026 reflect a challenging market environment,” said bet-at-home Chief Executive Officer, Stefan Sulzbacher.
“Gross betting and gaming revenues declined by 16.1% in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the previous year to €11.34m, primarily due to weaker performance in the online sports betting segment.
“In the comparative period, the increase in the betting tax in Austria from 2% to 5% of stakes (effective 1 April 2025) had not yet come into effect. The immediate pass-through of the increased costs to customers from June 2025 led to a decline in revenues as well as overall customer activity.”
Sports betting volume fell significantly from €89.78m to €67.86m YoY, contributing to total betting and gaming volume declining from €103.2m to €82.3m.
In contrast, the operator’s online gaming segment continued to grow. Online gaming GGR rose 13.1% YoY to €1.71m, while gaming volume increased from €13.42m to €14.46m.
Net betting and gaming revenue fell from €10.81m to €8.6m after betting fees, gambling levies and VAT deductions.
The company’s profitability also deteriorated during the quarter. EBITDA before special items at bet-at-home fell to a loss of €149,000 compared to positive EBITDA of €1.6m in Q1 2025, while reported EBITDA dropped from €1.17m to a loss of €320,000.
Meanwhile, consolidated profit swung from a €887,000 profit last year to a €461,000 loss for the quarter.
Marketing expenditure declined 7.4% YoY to €4.49m. bet-at-home.com said its marketing strategy for 2026 is heavily focused on the upcoming World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico, but that this “continues to be offset by existing regulatory, legal, and competitive uncertainties”.
Other operating expenses fell 20.9% to €2.44m due to lower service provider costs, reduced legal advisory expenses and lower foreign exchange losses.
Despite the weaker quarter, bet-at-home maintained a solid liquidity position. Cash and cash equivalents stood at €26.68m as of 31 March, down only slightly from €27.89m at the end of 2025.
Looking ahead, the firm said it remains focused on its core German and Austrian markets.
Sulzbacher added: “An emphasis is placed on the start of the FIFA World Cup, which will take place in June and July 2026 in the US, Canada, and Mexico. We expect this major event to be an additional positive driver for further business development.
“In particular, increased customer activity and growth in new registrations compared to the 2025 financial year are anticipated.”
bet-at-home’s recent challenges
The company reiterated its full-year guidance for 2026, forecasting gross betting and gaming revenue of €46m-€54m and EBITDA before special items up to €4m.
Last year, bet-at-home reported €48m revenue and €2.4m in EBITDA before special items, but these numbers have been on a gradual decline for the best part of a decade.
The firm is no longer the powerhouse it once was in the late 2010s, when it was reporting turnovers of more than double of that €48m figure, and that decline has caused investors to turn away.
This has led to a mammoth dip in its share price, market cap and reputation on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, where shares are trading way off its mid-2017 peak of €150.
Since then, shares have dropped by over 98% and now sit at the €2.61 mark, while bet-at-home’s market cap is €18.3m – some distance away from the approximate €740m it was valued at back when its stock peaked.
Nevertheless, for 2026, Sulzbacher has stood firm on the current €48m revenue outlook, despite ongoing market pressures and operational uncertainty.
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(AsiaGameHub) - Prime Minister Keir Starmer maintains he has no plans to step down in the wake of last week’s local elections, where Labour lost 1,496 council seats throughout England.
On the local front, the landscape of UK politics has changed significantly, with Labour and Conservative parties—longtime mainstays—losing constituency backing to Reform UK, the Green Party, and a fresh group of independent councillors.
But Labour’s heavy defeat isn’t unexpected; all analysts foresaw a drubbing for the ruling party’s council seats, given it’s widely seen as stagnant.
Starmer refuses to bow out just yet
Within Labour circles, attention is now fixed on Starmer and the extent to which he’s directly responsible for this historic thrashing.
As of this morning, 93 Labour MPs have publicly demanded Starmer resign or outline a timeline for stepping down, ramping up pressure on the party leader even though Labour still holds a strong parliamentary majority in the House of Commons.
Labour’s crisis is made worse by projections from local election vote shares: if those results were repeated nationwide, Labour could plummet from its governing position to around 110 Commons seats, while Reform UK would become the biggest parliamentary group.
This possible outcome has stoked rising anxiety among Labour MPs about whether Starmer is still the right person to protect the party’s 2024 general election victory—dubbed by critics as a “loveless majority”.
Sam Rosbottom: Betfair
Betting markets have responded sharply to the growing political unrest. Sam Rosbottom, a spokesperson for Betfair Politics, commented: “Westminster is once again in chaos. Sir Keir Starmer’s future as Prime Minister is very much up in the air, and bettors don’t think he’ll make it through the year, never mind to the next general election.”
Rosbottom pointed out that Starmer’s odds of leaving 10 Downing Street between July and September are now 5/7 (a 58% implied chance), down significantly from 7/5 (41%) the previous night. Additionally, the PM has 1/20 odds of being replaced before the next general election.
“It’s becoming more and more probable that the UK will have four Prime Ministers in four years—almost as frequent as managerial changes at Chelsea Football Club,” Rosbottom added.
“Though the betting market for the next Prime Minister is a bit more stable than the one for Chelsea’s next manager.”
Burnham and Streeting emerge as top contenders
As talk of a Labour leadership contest grows, betting markets have zeroed in on three front-runners.
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is currently leading Betfair’s odds at 13/5 (28%), even though there are questions about how he would get back to Westminster.
Health Secretary Wes Streeting is next at 10/3 (23%), while former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has odds of 9/2 (18%).
Kyle McGrath from Entain Politics stated that political betting markets have quickly become one of the industry’s busiest areas this year.
“I also manage Eurovision betting here, which I thought would be the biggest political betting event of the year,” McGrath said. “But a Burnham vs Streeting contest later this year might come close.”
McGrath also noted that customer betting patterns suggest more people expect Starmer to leave office before the end of 2026.
“Personally, I don’t think KS will last until the end of the year,” he commented. “92 MPs have now called for his resignation, and there are probably many more behind closed doors—including in his own cabinet—who feel the same way.”
UK politics shifts to a focus on deal-making
Entain’s trading desk reports that most bets on Starmer’s departure date are centered on 2026, with the April-June 2026 window being especially popular among those looking for a leadership transition timeline.
Regarding Labour’s leadership race, McGrath said bets are fairly evenly split between Burnham, Rayner, and Streeting, with outsiders like Al Carns also gaining some backing lately.
Outside of Labour’s internal issues, the local elections are being seen more and more as proof that Britain has entered an era of fragmented politics, similar to other European countries.
The traditional parties—Labour, Conservatives, and Liberal Democrats—are no longer part of a three-party system; instead, the electoral landscape is split, driven by the growing support for Reform UK and the Green Party.
For long-time Westminster figures, these changes mean future party leaders will need a very different set of political skills—they can’t just be ideological leaders.
Labour, in particular, needs more negotiators and deal-makers who can handle a split electorate with conflicting demands on issues like immigration, cost of living, public services, and ongoing identity politics.
Even with increasing market talk of political instability, bookmakers don’t think Britain is heading for an early general election.
Entain currently offers 8/1 (11% chance) odds for a 2026 general election and 5/1 for 2027. “Some customers are betting on an early election, possibly influenced by Farage and Tice’s frequent comments on the subject,” the company noted.
A shared conclusion among Westminster insiders and betting analysts is that the UK has entered a new political era—one that must address the needs of a diverse and split electorate.
Sir Keir Starmer could very well be the first major victim of this generational shift…
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HONG KONG, May 13, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Recently, in its latest Tear Sheet, S&P Global stated that it expects Guotai Junan International Holdings Limited (“Guotai Junan International” or “GTJAI”, Stock Code: 1788.HK), a subsidiary of Guotai Haitong Group, and its intermediate holding company Guotai Haitong Financial Holdings Ltd. (“GTHTFH”), to continue to play a key role in the international strategy of their ultimate parent Guotai Haitong Securities Co. Ltd. (“GTHT”).In its Tear Sheet, S&P Global pointed out that the business synergies between GTJAI and its parent company, particularly in investment banking and wealth management, reinforce its importance within the group. International development is one of GTHT’s core strategic priorities, and GTJAI will continue to play a key role in the Group’s efforts to strengthen its global presence. In 2025, GTJAI and GTHTFH recorded 284% and 85% profits growth, respectively, and accounted for about 3% and 8% of GTHT’s net profit during the year. This strong financial performance robustly demonstrates the Company’s contribution to the overall business of the Group.S&P Global expects that GTJAI will remain one of the Group’s core subsidiaries over the next two years and will continue to receive support from GTHT, with its issuer credit rating and “stable” outlook moving in tandem with those of the parent. S&P Global believes that GTJAI has access to timely parental support, including indirect benefits from the Shanghai government through GTHT if needed.This Tear Sheet fully reflects the Company’s current situation and expectations for future development. GTJAI will resolutely align with the Group’s international strategy, continuously enhance its own professional capabilities and the efficiency of business synergies with the Group, and contribute to Guotai Haitong Group’s goal of becoming a first-class investment bank with international competitiveness and market leadership.Note: This article is based on an independent opinion document (Tear Sheet: Guotai Junan International Holdings Ltd. And Guotai Haitong Financial Holdings Ltd.) published by S&P Global Ratings on May 5, 2026. This document does not constitute a rating action.About GTJAIGuotai Junan International (Stock Code: 1788.HK), a subsidiary of Guotai Haitong Group, is the market leader and first mover for internationalization of Chinese Securities Company as well as the first Chinese securities broker listed on the Main Board of The Hong Kong Stock Exchange through initial public offering. Based in Hong Kong with subsidiaries in Singapore, Vietnam and Macau, GTJAI’s business covers major markets around the world, offering high-quality and diversified comprehensive financial services for clients' overseas asset allocation. Core business includes wealth management, institutional investor services, corporate finance services, investment management and other business. GTJAI has been assigned “Baa2” and “BBB+” long term issuer rating from Moody and Standard & Poor respectively, as well as an MSCI ESG “AAA” rating, Wind ESG “A” rating and SynTao Green Finance “A” rating in ESG. Additionally, its S&P Global ESG score leads 81% of its global peers. The controlling shareholder, Guotai Haitong Securities (Stock Code: 601211.SH/ 2611.HK), is the comprehensive financial provider with a long-term, sustainable and overall leading position in the China’s capital markets. For more information about GTJAI, please visit https://www.gtjai.com. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
香港, 2026年5月13日 - (亚太商讯 via SeaPRwire.com) - 近日,标普全球(S&P Global)在其发布的最新简报中明确表示,预计国泰海通集团下属公司国泰君安国际控股有限公司(“国泰君安国际”、“公司”,股份代号:1788.HK)及其直接控股公司国泰海通金融控股有限公司(“国泰海通金控”)作为母公司国泰海通证券股份有限公司(“国泰海通”)核心子公司,将继续在集团国际化战略中发挥关键作用。标普全球在简报中指出,国泰君安国际与母公司在投资银行及财富管理领域的业务协同效应显著,进一步强化了其在集团内部的重要性。国际化发展为国泰海通的核心战略重点之一,国泰君安国际将继续在集团加强全球布局的过程中扮演关键角色。2025年,国泰君安国际及国泰海通金控分别实现利润增长284%及85%,分别占国泰海通证券当年净利润约3%及8%。这一强劲的财务表现,有力印证了公司对集团整体业务发展的贡献。标普全球预期,国泰君安国际未来两年仍将作为集团核心子公司之一,持续获得母公司支持,其发行人信用评级及“稳定”展望将与母公司保持同步。标普全球认为,公司可获得母公司稳定、及时的支持,包括在必要时通过国泰海通间接受益于上海政府的资源。这份简报充分反应了公司的现况及对未来发展的预期。国泰君安国际将坚定不移地配合集团国际化战略,持续提升自身的专业能力及与集团的业务协同效率,为国泰海通集团成为具备国际竞争力与市场引领力的一流投资银行作出贡献。注:本文内容基于标普全球评级于2026年5月5日发布的独立观点文件(Tear Sheet:Guotai Junan International Holdings Ltd. And Guotai Haitong Financial Holdings Ltd.),该文件不构成评级行动。关于国泰君安国际国泰海通集团下属公司国泰君安国际(股票代号:1788.HK),是中国证券公司国际化的先行者和引领者,公司是首家通过IPO于香港联合交易所主板上市的中资证券公司。国泰君安国际以香港为业务基地,并在新加坡、越南和澳门设立子公司,业务覆盖全球主要市场,为客户境外资产配置提供高质量、多元化的综合性金融服务,核心业务包括财富管理、机构投资者服务、企业融资服务、投资管理等。目前,国泰君安国际已分别获得穆迪和标准普尔授予“Baa2”及“BBB+”长期发行人评级,MSCI ESG“AAA”评级, Wind ESG“A”评级及商道融绿ESG“A”评级,同时其标普全球ESG评分领先全球81%同业。公司控股股东国泰海通证券(股票代号:601211.SH/2611.HK)为中国资本市场长期、持续、全面领先的综合金融服务商。更多关于国泰君安国际的信息请见:https://www.gtjai.com Copyright 2026 亚太商讯 via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com
HONG KONG, May 13, 2026 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The sixth Asia Summit on Global Health (ASGH), jointly organised by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), and the 17th Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair (Medical Fair), organised by the HKTDC and co-organised by the Hong Kong MedTech Association, have concluded successfully. As one of the two flagship events of International Healthcare Week, the ASGH gathered some 3,000 participants from 43 countries and regions and arranged over 400 one‑on‑one deal-making meetings, while also facilitating the signing of multiple cooperation agreements, with a strong focus on the application of artificial intelligence. Meanwhile, the Medical Fair welcomed some 13,000 buyers from 61 countries and regions for sourcing and networking. More than 670 business matching meetings were arranged during the fair, supporting buyers and exhibitors in identifying potential partners and advancing concrete business discussions. Together, the two flagship events facilitated over 1,000 high-quality collaborations and connections, fully demonstrating the synergy between medical technology, investment and industry applications.Over 90 global leaders share insight into healthcare innovation development and AI applicationsThe sixth ASGH, a two-day event jointly organised by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the HKTDC, has concluded under the theme Fuelling Healthcare Breakthroughs, focusing on public health, frontier healthcare technologies, AI breakthroughs, healthcare investment and the silver health. The ASGH brought together over 90 international healthcare officials, scientific pioneers, Nobel laureate, investors and corporate leaders to share insight and explore pathways to accelerate innovation across the global healthcare ecosystem.At Plenary Session I – Strengthening Pandemic Preparedness through Global Collaboration. Prof Ibrahim Abubakar, Vice‑Provost (Health) and Professor of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, University College London, said: “Research platforms need to be developed long in advance of pandemics, and we must invest in infectious disease infrastructure, and beyond, whether it’s in AI technology or in disease management.”Plenary Session II – Fuelling Healthcare Breakthroughs centred on the commercialisation of medical research, biomedical innovation and healthcare investment opportunities. Jonathan Symonds, Chair of GSK, said: “All developed countries are now facing ageing, low birth rates and an increasing impact of chronic disease. So, it's no longer just a health system problem, but it's now an economic problem.”During the Dialogue with Global Pioneer in Health session, Prof Michael Levitt, 2013 Nobel Laureate in Chemistry and Robert W and Vivian K Cahill Professor of Cancer Research at the Stanford University School of Medicine, said that Hong Kong’s healthcare system possesses unique advantages and high-quality statistical data, making it potentially more valuable for research than the US and other countries or regions, in areas such as longevity.The ASGH featured multiple thematic sessions spotlighting the application of AI in healthcare. Sustaining the momentum of the “Intelligence at Scale: How AI is Powering Real-World Healthcare Revolution” session on the first day, another thematic session on the second day, “Transforming Healthcare through Digital Health & AI Innovations”, explored how digital technologies and artificial intelligence are reshaping healthcare systems. Natasha Chhatrapati, Senior Director, Business Transformation Lead for International, Pfizer Inc., said: “AI is compressing timelines across the entire healthcare journey, from drug development and clinical research to how we engage with physicians and how patients consume care.”The session “The Next Frontier in China’s Healthcare Industry” examined strategies to advance the Chinese Mainland healthcare sector. Dr James Xue, Founder, Chairman and CEO of CANbridge Pharmaceuticals Inc, said: “China has an edge because of the population. A bigger population base will allow companies to build better drug candidates.”With silver health emerging as a major global focus, the Silver Health Chapter included the session “Unlocking Growth in Silver Health: From Precision Medicine to Smart Ageing Innovations”, which brought together leading experts to discuss challenges and opportunities arising from population ageing. Dr Alex Mihailidis, Associate Vice‑President, International Partnerships and Professor at the University of Toronto and Scientific Director at AGE‑WELL, provided in‑depth insight into breakthroughs in prevention and treatment of age‑related diseases, offering guidance for the development of the silver health economy and smart ageing solutions. He said: “For a technology to be successful with older people, it’s not just the technology, but also the service delivery model, as well as the practice and policy.”The newly introduced session “CSO Insights: Catalysing Scientific Breakthroughs and Investments for Future Health” featured discussions on research strategy and the acceleration of scientific discoveries into practical applications. Dr Li Xiang, Senior Vice President, Co-President and Chief Scientific Officer, Innovative Medicines Division, Fosun Pharma, said: “In our business, it is very important to begin with the end in mind. When you set out to do your discovery program, you must already know what the unmet needs are and how difficult the clinical trials will be.”Over 400 deal‑making sessions drive investment and business matchingBeyond thought leadership, the ASGH continued to serve as an effective platform for deal‑making and investment matching. Dedicated deal-making at the ASGH facilitated one‑to‑one meetings to promote tangible collaboration.During the ASGH, over 400 business and investment matching meetings were arranged, attracting investment institutions and healthcare enterprises from Europe, the US, Asia and the Guangdong‑Hong Kong‑Macao Greater Bay Area to explore opportunities in investment, technology deployment and market expansion.Colin Tan, Director of Operations at TusPark Holdings, an investor from the UK, said: “This year, I brought around 15 UK healthcare and life sciences companies to exhibit at the UK Pavilion. The ASGH has been an excellent platform to forge such connections. We are now facilitating a significant partnership in cancer research between a leading UK organisation and a Hong Kong counterpart.”ASGH also featured the ASGH Business Hub and the InnoHealth Showcase, bringing together some 180 healthcare innovation companies from 12 countries and regions to present cutting‑edge solutions across biotechnology, digital health and medical technologies.Strategic Partner of this year’s Summit, Shanghai Industrial Investment (Holdings) led multiple subsidiaries in exhibiting at the ASGH. Gu Feng, Chief Finance and Investment Officer, said that the ASGH fully showcased Hong Kong’s international competitiveness: “Chinese companies expanding overseas will come to Hong Kong, and foreign companies seeking to procure will do the same. Here we can not only acquire resources, but also connect and match resources, talent, capital, and other key elements.”AQ Biotech from Finland, exhibiting at ASGH for the first time, said that their objective was to explore the Asian market. They view Hong Kong as a vital hub that adds internationally recognised credibility, connectivity and commercial acumen, helping them take their work global.Dr Iman Manavitehrani, Founder and Director of SDIP Innovations, the Australian exhibitor returning for the second year, said: “Last year’s visit led directly to an IGNITE grant from HSITP, and we are now part of the first Australian cohort based here. With Hong Kong as our gateway to the GBA and Chinese Mainland, I am confident the connections made at the ASGH will lead to further collaboration and partnership.”Third-time exhibitor, Prof Leung Kam-tong, Founder and CEO of local healthcare startup Homing Pharmaceuticals, said: “We’ve already reconnected with three investors here for in-depth discussions on our fundraising strategy, taking our navigated CAR-T therapy to first-in-human clinical trials. Sessions outside my field sparked new ideas around refining the therapy and exploring new directions. I also met professors from Australia and Singapore, and look forward to exploring international R&D collaborations as we bring this therapy worldwide.”Building bridges for “go global” and other cross‑border healthcare collaborationsBuilding on its track record of facilitating collaboration, the ASGH enabled the signing of 10 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), such as those between the HKSH Medical Group and Siemens Healthineers, as well as Australian AI-powered clinical documentation platform startup Heidi Health, which signed separate agreements with local medical group EC Healthcare and Hong Kong Metropolitan University. These collaborations will drive deeper cooperation, including AI‑enabled healthcare applications and clinical research, further reinforced the ASGH’s role as a bridge connecting the Chinese Mainland and international healthcare ecosystems. Notably, HKSH Medical Group and Siemens Healthineers signed an agreement, formally establishing HKSH as Siemens Healthineers’ first Photon Counting Computed Tomography Simulation (PCCT-Sim) Reference Site in Asia.On the second day, the GoGlobal CONNECT series: Hong Kong as a Superconnector to Empower Global Expansion of Pharmaceutical Enterprises workshop brought together experts in regulation, clinical trials, IP protection and distribution to share practical insight on international expansion. Prof Bernard Cheung, Chief Executive Officer, Greater Bay Area International Clinical Trial Institute, said: “Public hospitals in Hong Kong have very good electronic medical records that go back 30 years. It’s a unique asset that benefits not just people in Hong Kong but the world, as it allows us to study the long-term progression of diseases.”The ASGH also featured the “GoGlobal Connect” and the Business of Healthcare Advisory Zone, enabling healthcare enterprises to connect with service providers and receive practical support for developing “go global” strategies. Xiang Jun, Chairman of 365 Intelligence (Beijing) Medical Technology Co., Ltd, said that the ASGH helped them gain a deeper understanding of Hong Kong’s professional services and of HKTDC’s “GoGlobal Connect” initiative. The company is particularly interested in Hong Kong’s research data and service resources, and plans to establish research operations in Hong Kong in the long term. Mark Xu, Regional Director of Sales and Marketing, Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech Co, Ltd, also successfully connected with service providers, including DKSH and the Greater Bay Area International Clinical Trial Institute, through this workshop. They engaged in in-depth discussions on potential collaboration opportunities for “going global”.During the summit, the HKTDC signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Hong Kong Singapore Business Association (HSBA), supporting Mainland enterprises’ “going global” via Hong Kong to target the Singapore and ASEAN markets. Prime Minister and Minister for Finance of Singapore Lawrence Wong visited Hong Kong in March this year, during which both governments agreed to deepen cooperation. The HSBA and the HKTDC, together with professional service providers, plan to strengthen trade and economic ties between the two cities. By leveraging their respective strengths and promoting complementary cooperation, they aim to drive business development, assist Chinese Mainland enterprises in expanding regionally and internationally, and enhance tripartite collaboration among Singapore, Hong Kong, and the Chinese Mainland.The Medical Fair brings together global industry players to foster diverse collaborations, strengthening Hong Kong’s status as a global healthcare hubThe Medical Fair was being held concurrently. Organised by the HKTDC and co-organised by the Hong Kong MedTech Association, the Medical Fair adopted the theme Innovations Boosting Smart Health Experience. Focusing on three key areas: MedTech, GeronTech, and Preventive Healthcare, the event provided a high-efficiency trade and matchmaking platform for global R&D institutions, manufacturers, and medical professionals to showcase the latest industry trends. The number of exhibitors featuring smart ageing products and green solutions doubled this year, with many showcasing innovative solutions integrating AI and robotics to meet evolving market demands.The Medical Fair featured some 300 exhibitors from 10 countries and regions, including Hong Kong, Chinese Mainland, Macao, Taiwan, Australia, Canada, Korea, New Zealand, United States and Vietnam. The Fair featured seven major zones, including Startup Zone, Hospital Equipment and Digital Health, Biotech and Lab Diagnostics, Laboratory Technologies and Healthcare Services, Medical Supplies, and the World of Health and Wellness, showcasing the latest medical technologies and innovative solutions. Pavilions from leading local universities, the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks, and the Hong Kong MedTech Association underscored a multi-sector commitment to fostering collaborative innovation across government, industry, academia, research, and investment sectors.Exhibitors acknowledged that AI has become a core driver of healthcare services, while the Medical Fair serves as a one-stop platform that brings together a complete healthcare ecosystem, successfully integrating AI, robotics technology and a wide range of smart medical devices. Wong Cheung Hang, Sales and Marketing Manager of Health Care & Co, a medical and rehabilitation equipment company in Hong Kong, said, “Buyers showed particular interest in our AI management systems, AI-assisted robots and various smart healthcare applications. With healthcare providers increasingly adopting smart health solutions, the market outlook is promising. We expect this fair to drive at least 20% business growth compared with last edition and enable us to promote smart rehabilitation technologies.” Many overseas exhibitors succeeded in securing business matching opportunities at the fair. Peter Li, Chief Executive Officer of first-time exhibitor GenomeMe Lab Inc from Canada, said, “We connected with buyers from Hong Kong, Thailand and India, and identified potential local partners in the healthcare and hospital sectors. This will help us explore entry into hospital channels, establish distribution networks, and lay the groundwork for future expansion into Southeast Asia, Australia and Korea.”The Medical Fair has facilitated numerous cross-regional collaborations, serving as a key platform for industry exchange and business matching. Dresio Limited, participating in the Fair for the third time under the banner of Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks, showcased its contactless physiotherapy assessment system Accudex, drawing strong interest from buyers across Hong Kong, Chinese Mainland, Singapore and the Philippines. Curtis Wong, Chief Operating Officer and Head of Research and Development of the company, said, “This year’s fair outperformed previous editions in footfall, business exchanges and partnership discussions. We have engaged with a large number of high-quality buyers from hospitals, rehabilitation centres and the insurance sector.” The company met with a Filipino buyer on the first day of the exhibition and subsequently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on the third day, expanding its software into Southeast Asia, with the contract value expected to exceed HK$1 million.The Medical Fair was held concurrently with the ASGH and the Hospital Authority (HA) Convention, bringing together key industry stakeholders and generating strong synergy. Exhibitors were able to seize the opportunity to meet with numerous representatives from the Hospital Authority and major healthcare institutions, fostering meaningful exchanges and collaboration. Among them, first-time exhibitor PalmX Technology Limited showcased its palm vein biometric technology at the Startup Zone. Jeffrey Lo, Vice President of the company, was impressed by the Fair’s response, which exceeded his expectations. He added that within the first two days, they received over 20 enquiries from hospitals and healthcare institutions, including representatives from the Hospital Authority, and attracted interest from overseas buyers in Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines and India, with potential orders ranging from US$10,000 to several hundred thousand dollars.This year’s Medical Fair attracted a significant number of buyers from emerging markets seeking sourcing opportunities. Dr Keo Sovann, an otorhinolaryngologist from Orchid Hospital in Cambodia who visited the fair specifically for new medical equipment, said, “I met more than 10 exhibitors from Chinese Mainland, Australia and Malaysia, which has helped expanding our hospital’s procurement network and advanced our internationalization efforts. I am particularly interested in a Hong Kong company’s AI-powered medical imaging solutions and X-ray equipment; we are considering an order of 20 units.” A buyer from Morocco also attended the fair for the first time to source laboratory equipment. Rachid Zemmouri, Business Development Manager of Promamec, said he met with at least 15 exhibitors from Hong Kong, Chinese Mainland, Taiwan and Indonesia. Discussions are underway on thermodynamics-related solutions with the aim of application to eye-disease treatment. Subject to satisfactory progress, he plans to invite partners to Morocco for site visits. He added that the company has an annual procurement budget of approximately US$70 million and intends to return for future sourcing.The Fair hosted over 50 themed forums and seminars, with leading technology companies, industry experts and academics sharing the latest industry trends, technological innovations and practical insights to foster in-depth exchange, collaboration and inspire trade buyers. Highlight sessions included “Accelerating Mental Health Innovation through AI Research and Adoption”, “HKMTA Medical Fair Forum 2026: The Medtech Solutions - Greater Bay Area & Overseas”, “The ASEAN Gateway: Navigating Regulations, Capital and Distributions from Hong Kong”, and “Decoding the Demand for Gerontechnology” among others, all of which attracted strong audience engagement. Selected sessions are available for replay on the Fair’s website for extended engagement.The exhibition continued to adopt the EXHIBITION+ hybrid model. Global exhibitors, industry professionals, and buyers could make use of the Click2Match and explore sourcing opportunities via HKTDC Sourcing. Click2Match will remain available until 20 May.Photo download: https://bit.ly/4nokRfTThe sixth Asia Summit on Global Health was attended by some 3,000 participants from 43 countries and regions.Dr Alex Mihailidis, Associate Vice President, International Partnerships and Professor at the University of Toronto and Scientific Director at AGE WELL, attended and shared his insight.In the session Transforming Healthcare through Digital Health & AI Innovations, Natasha Chhatrapati, Senior Director, Business Transformation Lead for International at Pfizer Inc, engaged with fellow panellists to examine the practical implementation and the latest breakthroughs in AI within the healthcare sector.On the second day, the GoGlobal CONNECT series: Hong Kong as a Superconnector to Empower Global Expansion of Pharmaceutical Enterprises brought together experts in regulation, clinical trials, IP protection and distribution to share practical insights on international expansion.During the ASGH, over 400 business and investment matching meetings were arranged, attracting investment institutions and healthcare enterprises from Europe, Asia and the Guangdong‑Hong Kong‑Macao Greater Bay Area to explore opportunities in investment, technology deployment and market expansion.The ASGH also featured the ASGH Business Hub and the InnoHealth Showcase, bringing together around 180 healthcare innovation companies from 12 countries and regions to present cutting‑edge solutions across biotechnology, digital health and medical technologies.The ASGH also featured the “GoGlobal Connect” and the Business of Healthcare Advisory Zone, enabling healthcare enterprises to connect with service providers and receive practical support for developing “go global” strategies.HKTDC signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Hong Kong Singapore Business Association (HSBA), supporting Mainland enterprises to “go global” via Hong Kong and target the Singapore and ASEAN markets.The 17th Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair attracted buyers from 61 countries and regions, with some 13,000 buyers visiting the fair for sourcing and procurement.The Hong Kong MedTech Association led some 20 companies to exhibit at the fair, drawing strong buyer interest and encouraging in‑depth business discussions.The Canada Pavilion brought together a number of companies to promote their medical equipment, technology application solutions and related services, attracting buyers to explore opportunities and engage in business discussions.Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation led over 30 innovation and technology companies to exhibit at the Fair, showcasing the strength of Hong Kong’s local medical innovation and R&D capabilities.Industry experts at the themed session “ASEAN Gateway: Navigating Regulations, Capital and Distributions from Hong Kong” shared the latest market trends, fostering active exchanges among industry stakeholders.WebsitesInternational Healthcare Week: https://internationalhealthcareweek.hktdc.com/enAsia Summit On Global Health: https://www.asiasummitglobalhealth.com/conference/asgh/enHong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkmedicalfair/enList of Product: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkmedicalfair/en/product Media enquiriesYuan Tung Financial Relations:Jasmine ZhangTel: (852) 3428 3278Email: jzhang@yuantung.com.hkLouise SongTel: (852) 3428 5691Email: lsong@yuantung.com.hkTiffany LeungTel: (852) 3428 2361Email: tleung@yuantung.com.hkHKTDC’s Communications & Public Affairs Department:Noah QiuTel: (852) 2584 4575Email: noah.yl.qiu@hktdc.orgNavin LawTel: (852) 2584 4525Email: navin.cm.law@hktdc.orgSerena CheungTel: (852) 2584 4137Email: jane.mh.cheung@hktdc.orgAbout HKTDCThe Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) celebrates its 60th anniversary this year. The HKTDC is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in the Chinese Mainland, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Copyright 2026 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com