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Player Prop Bets for Tonight’s NBA Play-In Game: Magic vs. 76ers

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Orlando Magic will face off against the Philadelphia 76ers in an NBA Play-In Game this evening. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET on Amazon Prime Video. The victor of tonight’s matchup will secure the Eastern Conference’s No. 7 seed. The losing team will take on the Charlotte Hornets for the No. 8 seed on Friday. DraftKings Sportsbook has listed the 76ers as 1.5-point favorites, with a combined total score set at 224.5. Fifty-eight percent of the spread wagers and ticketed bets are backing Philadelphia. Now, let’s dive into our top player prop bets for the Magic vs. 76ers, using odds from DraftKings Pick6. Top Player Props for Magic vs. 76ers Orlando’s Paolo Banchero OVER 13.5 Assists & Rebounds Paolo Banchero is a dominant rebounder for the Magic, averaging 8.4 rebounds per game. That places him 17th across the NBA. The former Duke standout is also a reliable playmaker for a frontcourt player, averaging 5.2 assists per game. Here’s how Banchero performed in his past three matchups: 10 rebounds and 11 assists (for 21 total points) against the Celtics 9 rebounds and 7 assists (16 total points) against the Bulls 8 rebounds and 6 assists (14 total points) against the Timberwolves In their most recent matchup against the 76ers, Banchero grabbed 11 rebounds and dished out seven assists, handily beating this prop total. Philadelphia’s Paul George OVER 2.5 3-Pointers Made Joel Embiid is unavailable for the 76ers following last week’s appendectomy. Tyrese Maxey (28.3 ppg) and Embiid (26.9 ppg) lead Philadelphia in scoring, but Paul George (17.3 ppg) will need to elevate his play in the star big man’s absence. George scores most of his points from beyond the arc. His team-leading 39.2% shooting from three-point range bears that out. George averages 2.7 three-pointers per game, but that average jumped to 3.4 across the 10 games he has played since returning from a suspension related to taking improper medication. George has hit more than this number of three-pointers in seven straight games following his return, and he has cleared this prop mark in eight of his past 10 outings. Philadelphia’s Tyrese Maxey UNDER 30.5 Points Going up against one of the NBA’s most explosive scorers can feel intimidating, but Maxey’s recent performance trends make this bet a logical choice. Tyrese Maxey has finished below this point total in eight of his past 10 matchups. With Embiid sidelined, the burden of scoring will fall squarely on Maxey’s shoulders, and Orlando’s defensive game plan will focus on limiting him as the team’s primary scoring threat. Maxey, who averages 28.3 ppg, posted 29 points in their most recent game against the Magic. We advise backing the UNDER here, but our official wager has already been placed at DraftKings Pick6: Paolo Banchero OVER 13.5 combined assists and rebounds Paul George OVER 2.5 three-pointers made Wager: $50 to win $156 (with a 30% NBA Winnings Boost) Wishing you the best of luck with all of your wagers this evening! This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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Indonesian Lawmakers Demand Social Media Companies Fund Gambling Addiction Rehabilitation

(AsiaGameHub) -   Social media companies should be responsible for covering the costs of treating Indonesian citizens for gambling addiction, according to lawmakers. These calls originate from the policy-making People’s Representative Council, as reported by the Indonesian media outlet Inibalikpapan, following a series of disturbing, high-profile crimes linked to gambling. Lawmakers stated that online gambling addiction is leading to terrible tragedies and urged social media platforms to demonstrate accountability by contributing to the funding of rehabilitation centers. Council member Abdullah, also known as Gus Abduh, who serves on the commission and represents Central Java’s sixth electoral district, asserted that social media platforms are "profiting from [gambling-related] web traffic." Abduh stated, "[Social media operators] must not be allowed to benefit from traffic, either directly or indirectly. They must contribute to the funding of rehabilitation centers for [...] addicts." Social Media Firms: Gambling Addiction Accountability Needed In recent weeks, Indonesian newspapers have been extensively covering online gambling-related crime. Authorities in Makassar reported that a man attacked his wife and cousin with a machete when they attempted to prevent him from gambling online. In Lahat, police have charged a suspect with the murder of their mother after she discovered them stealing gold to fund their online gambling activities. Meanwhile, the head of a local government body in Medan Maimun is accused of embezzling up to IDR 1.2 billion ($70,000) in public funds to support their gambling habits. Abduh characterized the issue as having escalated beyond a mere "legal" concern to become a "national social and economic crisis." The lawmaker recommended that the government draw inspiration from countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom. He noted that both the US and UK have "integrated a rehabilitative approach." The lawmaker explained that instead of "simply blocking online casino sites," Jakarta would benefit from adopting a similar strategy. "We need regulations that require social media operations to help create a national rehabilitation system for online gambling addicts," he proposed. Despite a police investigation that has resulted in the jailing of many young female Instagram influencers, social media personalities continue to promote online casinos on their platforms. Lawmakers in the Indonesian House of Representatives (Image: Andylala Waluyo/VOA) Limited Resources Available Abduh pointed out that the "massive amount of funds circulating" within the online casino sector is disproportionate to the number of available rehabilitation facilities. He stated that the state currently offers only "limited rehabilitation services" for individuals struggling with online gambling addiction. "The state must intervene," the lawmaker concluded. "Online gambling addiction is a behavioral disorder that robs people of self-control. If they are not rehabilitated, we will see more criminals emerge." According to data from the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center, Indonesians deposit as much as $58.39 million annually on online gambling sites. This occurs despite a comprehensive crackdown that has led to the blocking of tens of thousands of citizens' bank accounts. The center, which is Indonesia’s leading anti-money laundering agency, reports that all of these accounts belong to individuals who have placed bets on online casino sites. Civil law courts across the country also indicate that online gambling addiction is becoming a primary reason for divorce. Many of the nation's leading psychiatric hospitals have reported a significant increase in both inpatient and outpatient cases of gambling addiction. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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South Korean Civil Servants Under Investigation as $18M Sportsbook Scam Probe Expands

(AsiaGameHub) -   Nine South Korean government employees face accusations of promoting a high-profile scam centered on an illegal sports betting platform that promised gamblers “guaranteed profits.” Law enforcement officials have launched an investigation following a Chuncheon City Hall audit that uncovered evidence the government employees helped defraud hundreds of South Koreans out of a combined total of more than $18.2 million, per South Korean media outlet G1 News. The group is alleged to have promoted a platform called GM Ball, which claimed to provide bettors with reverse betting options. In sports betting, a reverse bet — sometimes referred to as an action reverse — is a wager that connects two or more separate bets. Placing these bets lets bettors essentially wager on both sides of a team sports contest, so long as they put up twice the standard stake. A betting page from the now-shuttered GM Ball website. (Image: G1 News/Screenshot) South Korean Government Employees Recruited Scam Site Victims Law enforcement has been investigating the platform’s suspected operator for multiple weeks and has since taken the site offline. Investigators noted that the operators “inflated their membership counts” by “promising high returns.” They told gamblers they could earn additional income by referring new users to the platform. According to law enforcement, the site was actually a Ponzi-style scam. A police spokesperson confirmed that more than 800 victims have been identified across the country. Four of the site’s alleged ringleaders fled to Thailand, but police later repatriated all of the suspects back to South Korea. Chuncheon City Hall (Image: G1 News/Screenshot) Chuncheon is the most populous city in South Korea’s Gangwon Province. Auditors reported that several victims have been identified in Gangwon, adding that their probe “confirmed that Chuncheon City officials also used the platform to place wagers.” Auditors stated that all nine city employees used the platform, with an unspecified number of the accused also “serving as local recruiters.” These employees “signed up citizens and fellow government workers,” with some being given high-end smartwatches as an incentive. At least one of the civil servants placed bets totaling nearly $6,800 on GM Ball. One of the accused individuals told investigators, “The operators threatened to freeze our funds, so we began recruiting people we knew.” Law Enforcement Investigation Remains Ongoing Chuncheon City Hall has imposed disciplinary measures against its government employees. Three have received salary reductions, five have been officially reprimanded, and a single employee has been given a formal written warning. This situation may not be fully resolved, however, as law enforcement is pursuing a separate ongoing investigation. The vast majority of online sports betting activities are illegal in South Korea, with the only exceptions being state-run horse racing platforms and Sports Toto. The latter service provides sports pool-style betting, with a daily limit of 100,000 won (roughly $70). Over the past several months, South Korean media outlets have shared reports that dozens of teenagers are using stolen identification cards to place bets on Sports Toto. Many of these teens report that they have developed a “dependency” on sports betting. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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BetMGM CEO Says Customer Acquisition Costs Have Soared Due to Prediction Markets

(AsiaGameHub) -   On Tuesday, BetMGM CEO Adam Greenblatt highlighted the difficulties posed by prediction markets during the firm's Q1 2026 earnings call. The company reported net revenue of $696 million for the first quarter, a 6.6% year-over-year increase, alongside an adjusted EBITDA of $25 million, which rose 11% YoY. These results came during a period of intense spending by prediction market operators such as Kalshi and Polymarket. Greenblatt stated that the quarterly performance "fell slightly short of expectations because of a mix of player-favorable sports outcomes and market conditions, which include heightened competitive pressures." He specifically pointed out that BetMGM's customer acquisition costs saw a substantial rise due to the activities of prediction markets, which are increasingly putting pressure on conventional online sports betting (OSB) providers. "This surge is primarily fueled by new companies in the sports betting space purchasing media within the category," Greenblatt explained. "They identify as prediction markets and are acquiring sports betting keywords, in addition to spending heavily on any available sports media outlet." He continued, "Their marketing directly targets sports bettors, which drives up the expense of attracting new OSB customers and lengthens the time to recoup those costs. Several of these firms even incorporate a sportsbook feature in their product to mimic the sports betting experience as closely as possible." BetMGM Sees Higher Player Values in Q1 In the first quarter, BetMGM's average monthly active users (AMAs) decreased by 9% compared to the previous year, settling at 597,000. However, the handle per active user grew by 23%. "We are observing higher player values and a greater handle per active user than we had anticipated for the year," commented BetMGM CFO Gary Deutsch. "The number of players has been lower, yet the overall net effect is positive, as we balance these various metrics. "Factors like the overall handle influence how the handle accumulates. Therefore, we adjust and evaluate all these indicators collectively. The key takeaway is that we are consistently seeing player values exceed our projections." Greenblatt added, "BetMGM's sports segment attracts a larger proportion of bettors who place higher stakes and are of greater value. Although this leads to slightly more volatility in our hold percentage, the loyalty of these customers is a strength for us, as they are generally more steadfast than a predominantly recreational user base." Customer Battle With Prediction Markets Expected to Continue During the call, Greenblatt was questioned on whether prediction markets are making successful inroads with BetMGM's high-value bettors. "We are finding the more premium segments of our customer base to be remarkably stable," he responded. "In the overall pyramid of players, the performance improves as you move towards the top, and our players have performed well year on year. "Consequently, I believe our strategic approach is demonstrating its effectiveness and suitability during these more unpredictable market conditions." Greenblatt also reaffirmed the company's position of holding its ground against prediction markets. "We align with 40 state attorneys general, our OSB regulators, regulated states, and tribal partners," he stated. "We anticipate a swift resolution from the likely Supreme Court hearing on the case that supports states' rights, tribal rights, and opposes prediction markets. "For the remainder of the year, we are adjusting our OSB marketing strategy based on the expectation that the current media environment will continue." This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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Matchroom explores non-betting sponsors amid UK regulatory uncertainty

(AsiaGameHub) -   Amid regulatory uncertainty within the UK gaming sector, Matchroom Holdings is actively seeking sponsorship opportunities outside the betting industry. This disclosure was made in the group's latest Companies House filing, which outlines financial results for the year concluding on 30 June 2025. The holding company is the entity behind Matchroom Sport, best recognized for organizing professional boxing and darts competitions. The sports enterprise led by Eddie Hearn encompasses several betting partners throughout its divisions, including Matchroom Boxing, Matchroom Multi Sport, World Snooker, and the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC). Hearn holds the position of Chairman for both Matchroom Sport and the PDC. Currently, the regulatory landscape regarding betting partnerships in the UK remains somewhat precarious. Although there is no significant legal initiative underway to prohibit gambling sponsorship, pressure has intensified over recent years, notably throughout the Gambling Act review spanning 2020-2023. “Modifications to gambling legislation could influence the capacity of firms within the Betting and Gaming sector to leverage their brands during group events,” according to the statement from Matchroom’s Companies House filing. “The directors are actively seeking to diversify the group's sponsor base beyond this sector.” Matchroom – a historical partner of betting firms Given its role as the promoter for significant boxing, darts, and snooker tournaments, Matchroom has naturally drawn substantial commercial and marketing interest from betting firms. Major spectacles, such as world heavyweight title bouts featuring stars like Anthony Joshua, along with recurring annual events like the World Darts Championship (WDC) and World Snooker Tour (WST), offer extensive reach that bookmakers have been eager to capitalize on. Matchroom Boxing currently holds partnerships with the British firm Betfred and the Antiguan-based online brand Betonline. Previously, the organization also partnered with William Hill before that firm was acquired by evoke. Anthony Joshua in Cardiff, 2018 – Credit: Huw Fairclough / Shutterstock However, the majority of partners are associated with the PDC. Fluter Entertainment’s Paddy Power sponsors the WDC, while MGM Resorts’ BetMGM partners with Premier League Darts. Additionally, Betfed sponsors the World Matchplay, BoyleSports backs the World Grand Prix, Entain’s Ladbrokes supports both the UK Open and the Players Championship Finals, and BetVictor sponsors the World Cup of Darts. Betting agreements also extend across Matchroom’s snooker portfolio. Yolo Group’s Sportsbet.io serves as a primary partner for the Masconi Cup and the WST, while Midnite is also a partner of the latter. These sponsorship deals likely played a major role in Matchroom’s 2025 results. As of 30 June 2025, the group recorded a post-tax profit of £44m. This included £16.1m from darts, £9.9m from boxing, £2.5m from the Multi Sport division, £1.3m from snooker, and £2m from media, streaming, and production activities. It remains unclear which entities Matchroom might select to replace its betting partners. Rumors suggest that Premier League clubs, which are removing betting sponsors from the front of their shirts at the end of this season, might enter agreements with prediction platforms or financial trading firms. Matchroom might follow suit, although this is far from assured given that prediction platforms have significantly less visibility in the UK compared to the US. In any case, the company faces a significant gap in commercial revenue if regulatory pressure drives away betting partners. Alternatively, if betting partners decide to reduce their sponsorship budgets due to UK tax hikes—a move already being made by Entain, evoke, and Flutter—the company would face a similar shortfall. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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ASA Reverses Ladbrokes’ Decision on Ladbucks Ad Campaign

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has reversed an earlier ruling against Ladbrokes, determining that its “Ladbucks” ad campaign does not violate regulations aimed at safeguarding minors. This revised decision supersedes one published in June 2025; following a re-evaluation, the regulator now concludes that complaints about the advertisements should be “not upheld.” The case focused on television and video-on-demand ads promoting “Ladbucks” — a rewards program offered by Entain-owned Ladbrokes. The ads featured token-like coins and highlighted incentives such as free bets and free spins. Two complainants argued that the name “Ladbucks” and its visual presentation could strongly appeal to children, as they resemble in-game currencies used in popular titles Fortnite and Roblox. In its revised assessment, the ASA acknowledged similarities between Ladbucks and gaming tokens like V-Bucks and Robux. However, it concluded these similarities were too generic to create a strong appeal to under-18s. The regulator noted that while token-based systems are common in video games, they are also widely used in adult-oriented contexts, such as loyalty schemes. It also highlighted key visual differences, including the darker color scheme and poker chip-style design of the Ladbucks token. The ASA further determined that the ads lacked features typically associated with youth-focused content, such as cartoon imagery, characters, or fantasy elements. References to gambling games were brief and not presented in a way that would attract younger audiences, according to the authority. Although the ads were subject to age-related restrictions — including post-watershed TV placement and controls on video-on-demand platforms — the ASA said these measures alone were insufficient to guarantee under-18s would be excluded from viewing. As a result, the ads still needed to comply with rules preventing “strong” appeal to children. However, the regulator ultimately concluded they met these requirements. The ASA investigated the ads under both the BCAP and CAP Codes and found no breaches. Both complaints were therefore dismissed, marking a reversal of its earlier position and clearing Ladbrokes’ campaign to continue running. It’s not just the ASA cracking down This decision represents a small victory for a gambling industry company in an advertising dispute. Regulators across Europe, not just the UK’s ASA, have become far more stringent regarding advertising in recent years. Last year, the ASA penalized the brand William Hill (owned by evoke) for a voucher promotion deemed to encourage irresponsible gambling. The authority has also recently tightened its stance on social media influencers promoting gambling. Across Europe, the Dutch regulator Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) has warned several operators for non-compliance, notably regarding gambling company logos visible during European football matches. The Irish Advertising Standards Authority (IASA) also pulled two of TonyBet’s YouTube adverts back in February. However, the Ladbrokes ruling shows regulators aren’t just punishing for punishment’s sake. While the decision stems from an advert that first aired on TV in 2024, it reflects a level of accountability from the UK’s authority. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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Brazil’s PT Party Proposes Bill to Abolish Online Gambling Law

(AsiaGameHub) -   The PT government’s legal arm is calling on Congress to repeal the Bets Law, but where is Lula’s endorsement?  The legislative caucus of Brazil’s Workers’ Party (PT) has tabled Bill PL-1808/2026 with Congress, calling for a complete federal ban on “online gambling”. The proposal, formally introduced by PT deputy Pedro Uczai, demands the full repeal of all laws and regulatory provisions for online betting established under the Bets Law (PL 2626/2023), the regulatory framework that has been in effect since January 1, 2025. The proposed federal ban would cover the entire gambling structure created by the Bets Regime, as the bill’s text includes all activities tied to running an online gambling platform, including advertising, sponsorships, payment processing and any intermediary services connected to gambling operations. The bill leaves little ambiguity about the scope of its ban, stating: “This Law prohibits, throughout the national territory, the exploitation, operation, offering, availability, promotion, advertising, intermediation and processing of transactions related to fixed-odds betting.” Backed by 68 PT members, the measure calls for the removal of betting apps and websites, the blocking of financial transactions linked to gambling, and strict penalties for operators, affiliates and service providers found violating the prohibition. The bill is submitted to Congress as an emergency measure developed and supported by the PT government’s legal branch as a public protection effort “to stop the public health and economic harms linked to gambling”. Bets Law viewed as an economic harm As the bill’s sponsor, Uczai stated that it is the PT government’s responsibility to address “rising household debt, financial instability and mental health issues” that have emerged following the creation of Brazil’s online gambling market. “If betting causes the harm we believe it does, why don’t we just eliminate it entirely? Or regulate it to cut down on the volume of betting in Brazil, allowing a limited number of operations if they even serve any public purpose,” Uczai told Congress. Though submitted to Congress, the bill does not carry the signature of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva or senior federal government members, making clear the proposal remains a parliamentary initiative rather than an official executive policy. Pedro Uczai – PT Brazil – Credit: Saulo Cruz/Agência Senado Campaigning for a fourth presidential term, Lula has repeatedly spoken out against the Bets regime, noting as recently as last week that if the decision were entirely his, he would move to ban online gambling outright. However, this rhetoric is widely interpreted as campaign positioning, aligned with PT’s “3B slogan” — which calls for higher taxation of bankers, billionaires and betting operators. Political observers had instead expected PT to take a more measured approach, where Lula would leverage the party’s senior ranks to tighten the existing regulatory framework rather than dismantle it entirely. This expected approach included direct adjustments to the final legal terms of the Bets regime, such as backing a federal ban on gambling advertising, strengthening consumer protection safeguards, and formally classifying gambling addiction as a public health issue. When introducing the bill, Uczai made no reference to support from senior PT government leadership, confirming the proposal remains a parliamentary initiative rather than a coordinated executive action. Where is Lula? A full repeal of the Bets regime would put Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and the PT government on a collision course with key Brazilian institutions. Chief among these is the Receita Federal, Brazil’s federal tax authority, which has backed the regulated framework and projects up to R$13bn (£1.9bn) in gambling-related revenue for 2026 — funds seen as critical to sustaining PT’s social and welfare programs. Backing a federal ban would also spark resistance from Brazil’s football leagues and major media groups, both of which have grown increasingly reliant on high-value sponsorship deals tied to the betting sector. As noted last week by SBC Noticias Brazil: “such a move would carry significant fallout, effectively restarting a legislative process that took more than a decade to complete, while risking conflict with stakeholders across tax revenues, media and sport.  The question remains: does the PT government want to take the entire betting regulatory process back to ground zero?” A full repeal of the Bets regime would also see Lula abandon key policy measures established under the framework, including regulatory oversight of the SPA and the rollout of Brazil’s national self-exclusion scheme, which is currently being piloted at the federal level. Most significantly, pushing for a ban risks internal friction within PT and Congress itself. The Bets regime was authorized under Lula’s administration, and is viewed as the culmination of a decade-long policy effort.  As developments unfold, it remains unclear whether Lula and PT’s senior leadership will endorse Bill PL-1808/2026, or whether the proposal is just more political posturing from the party ahead of Brazil’s October election. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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Rank Group raises profit expectations following Q3 revenue surpassing £200m

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Rank Group has announced consistent revenue growth for the third financial quarter, with its performance bolstered by positive results from both its digital and physical venues. For the quarter ending 31 March 2026, the Group's like-for-like net gaming revenue (NGR) climbed 5% compared to the previous year, reaching £205.4m. Year-to-date NGR saw a 6% increase, totalling £625.2m. Each of the main divisions contributed to this positive performance in Q3. The company's largest segment, Grosvenor venues, saw a 5% rise in NGR to £95m, a result underpinned by a robust 10% growth in gaming machine revenue. The digital arm also experienced an uptick, with NGR growing 4% to £60.9m. Growth in the UK digital market was more subdued at 2%, but the international side showed stronger progress, posting a 14% revenue increase following enhancements to its platform and customer services. Mecca venues posted a 5% increase in NGR to £37.8m, while Enracha venues again delivered standout performance with 9% growth to £11.7m, propelled by a significant 27% surge in gaming machine revenue. The company stated that the effective conversion of revenue into profit during the quarter has led to an upgraded full-year forecast. It now anticipates like-for-like underlying operating profit will be no less than £68m, an improvement on the previous guidance of £65m. This revised outlook accounts for continued cost management initiatives, especially in the digital division. These actions are designed to counter the financial impact of the UK's Remote Gaming Duty increase to 40%, which is now in effect. The cost-saving measures involve cuts to marketing expenditure, supplier expenses, and staff numbers, while the company continues to invest in performance-based marketing and customer rewards. Looking ahead for Rank Group The group acknowledged that external issues, such as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, may influence international travel and subsequently affect venue performance. Despite this, Rank Group anticipates further revenue growth in the fourth quarter. Moving forward, the company is confident it can sustain its growth path, aided by continuous operational enhancements and beneficial regulatory shifts. Specifically, the removal of Bingo Duty starting in April 2026 is projected to boost profitability for its Mecca business. “We were pleased to observe ongoing revenue growth in every part of the business and a strong conversion to profit in Q3, even within a challenging economic environment,” commented Richard Harris, Interim Chief Executive of Rank Group. “These figures highlight the business's resilience, the quality of our customer offering, and the effectiveness of our growth strategies. “By taking the necessary steps to largely offset the effect of the higher RGD in our UK digital operations, and with definitive plans to achieve sustainable revenue growth, the group is in a strong position to meet its medium-term goal of producing at least £100m in operating profit.” Supported by rising revenue across all units and implemented cost controls, the group is moving into the year's final quarter with encouraging momentum. This positive sentiment has been reflected by investors, with Rank Group's share price climbing 12% since the results were published and breaking past the £1 threshold for the first time this year. The current priorities are to maintain this growth while managing regulatory and economic challenges, and to appoint a permanent Chief Executive after John O’Reilly's retirement in January. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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LeoVegas Receives Sportsbook License in Sweden

(AsiaGameHub) -   LeoVegas Group has reinforced its standing in the Swedish market after securing a sports betting licence for its owned brand, GoGoCasino. The new offering, approved by the Swedish gambling regulator Spelinspektionen, will be driven by Tiger, LeoVegas's proprietary sportsbook platform, marking its first launch in Sweden. LeoVegas obtained Tiger from German operator Tipico in 2024 in a transaction arranged by its parent company, MGM Resorts International. The deal occurred as Tipico discontinued its US operations, prompting the DACH market leader to divest its product and technology platform to LeoVegas. Before receiving the Swedish licence, Tiger had already been successfully deployed in other major European markets like Denmark and the Netherlands, with LeoVegas making substantial investments in the sportsbook under MGM's ownership. Another significant event for Tiger occurred earlier this year when it entered the Brazilian market with BetMGM, MGM Resorts' B2C sportsbook in South America, which runs on the LeoVegas platform. Brazil has become one of the globe's largest betting markets since its regulated regime began in January 2025. The industry is projected to be valued in the billions of dollars by 2030, driven by the country's passion for sports and sizable population. However, the situation in the South American nation is now tense, as governing party representatives have surprisingly reversed their position and are demanding a complete repeal of the 2025 law that established legal online betting—a move that will undoubtedly concern international operators like LeoVegas. Returning to Europe, the integration of Tiger into GoGoCasino is expected to substantially boost LeoVegas's market share in Sweden by appealing to both casino enthusiasts and sports bettors. The newly launched sportsbook platform will provide users with features including a bet builder, daily enhanced odds, partial cash-out, and in-play betting. This expansion follows a period of success for GoGoCasino in the Nordic region, where it first debuted in 2019 with its online and live casino services. Commenting on the news, Adrian Vella, Chief Product and Technology Officer at LeoVegas Group, stated: "Introducing our proprietary sportsbook, Tiger, in our home market of Sweden is a tremendous achievement for the entire Group, and my excitement is immense. "Our global teams have dedicated immense effort to our international expansion, and adding this to GoGoCasino will create new levels of engagement for players who love both casino games and sports betting." This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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Are bookmakers already back in racing? Betway and CopyBet secure new sponsorships

(AsiaGameHub) -   The much-discussed sponsor exodus from horse racing may not actually be coming to pass, if the most recent sponsorship deals from Betway and CopyBet are any indicator, at the very least. In separate announcements made yesterday, Betway and CopyBet have been unveiled as official partners of The Jockey Club and Worcester Racecourse respectively for the 2026 racing calendar. For Betway, the Super Group-owned online sportsbook will back 16 races across Newmarket, Haydock Park and Market Rasen, a package that includes its position as the official fixed odds betting partner of the Debenhams July Festival hosted at Newmarket. Lewis Knowles, PR Manager at Betway, said: “Betway sponsors some of the largest sporting events and teams across the globe, but it is wonderful to see British racing make a well-received return to our sponsorship roster. “We ranked among the biggest backers of racing over the last decade, with thousands of races carrying our name from 2015 right through to the Champion Chase at Cheltenham in 2024. This agreement is an incredible opportunity to align our brand with this fantastic sport once again. “We have enjoyed great success working alongside The Jockey Club in the past, and every member of the Betway team is thrilled to bring that partnership back for 2026.” In addition to the July Festival, Betway will sponsor Newmarket’s Craven Meeting taking place 15-17 April, the Grey Horse Raceday held on 15 August, and Cambridgeshire Friday scheduled for 25 September. The brand will also back Haydock’s Evening and Lester Piggot Day running 29-30 May, the Evening and Old Newton Cup across 3-4 July, Rose of Lancaster Day on 8 August, the Tommy Whittle Day on 19 December and Last Fling Day on 30 December. It will sponsor a single day of racing at Market Rasen, the Summer Plate Day held on 18 July. Is the rift between betting firms and horse racing starting to mend? The wide range of meetings Betway is sponsoring points to a shift in stance among operators, at least some of them, as the dust settles on the tax debates and disputes of summer 2025. There had been widespread expectations that racing sponsorships would be axed this year, following the gambling tax increases announced by Rachel Reeves, Chancellor of the Exchequer, last November. Remote Gaming Duty (RGD) rose from 21% to 40% on 1 April. Ahead of this change, a number of operators including bet365, BetMGM and Entain’s Coral chose to scale back parts of their sponsorship activity, leading to predictions of difficult times ahead for racing. The new deals from Betway and CopyBet suggest this may not be the full picture. Dan Glavin, Betting Partnerships Manager at The Jockey Club, said: “It is fantastic news that Betway is renewing its association with The Jockey Club through this exciting new partnership. “The Betway Craven Meeting at Newmarket is the point where the new Flat turf season really hits its stride, making it the perfect time to launch this collaboration. “Along with taking on the role of fixed odds betting partner for the prestigious Debenhams July Festival at Newmarket, Betway will also have its name linked to a significant number of high-class racedays running all the way through to the end of the year. “Most of these racedays will be broadcast live on ITV, delivering considerable brand exposure.” Beyond financial concerns, betting firms and racing also had a minor falling out last year to some extent. In the lead-up to November’s Autumn Budget, the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) and other sport stakeholders launched the #AxeTheRacingTax campaign. This campaign included a day of strike action held on 10 September. The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), which was also lobbying against tax hikes at the time, criticised this move, and it appeared a rift was opening up between the racing and betting sectors. It is not all bad blood across the board, however, as the latest moves from Betway and CopyBet seem to indicate. For CopyBet, the firm has signed on as the official betting partner of Worcester Racecourse for the 2026 National Hunt summer season. The company will sponsor 57 races across 19 summer jumps meetings running from 6 May to 21 October. This package includes naming rights to the Fixed Brush Series Final, with CopyBet branding set to be displayed across the entire racecourse site. Michael Thomas, Worcester Racecourse General Manager, said: “Ahead of another exciting summer of National Hunt action, we are thrilled to welcome CopyBet as our Official Betting Partner, supporting us to deliver another packed schedule of high-quality race days on the banks of the River Severn.” This agreement adds to CopyBet’s existing racing sponsorship portfolio, which already includes partnerships with Carlisle, Exeter, Haydock, Huntington and Kempton, plus a brand ambassador deal with Irish jockey Jonathan Burke. “We’re delighted to team up with Worcester Racecourse as its official betting partner,” said Mark Smith, Managing Director of CopyBet UK. “British horse racing is set to be a core part of another incredible summer of sport in the UK, and we are proud to continue supporting one of the nation’s most popular sports.” The racing sector came out of last year’s budget announcement in a relatively strong position, having been exempted from the RGD increase and next year’s planned rise in General Betting Duty (GBD) from 15% to 25%. A knock-on impact on racing is still anticipated, however, as a result of the previously mentioned marketing cutbacks. While Betway and CopyBet have not joined the exodus of sponsors, other operators still plan to limit their presence in racing, meaning the sport requires all the financial support it can secure. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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SBC Digital: Payment Expert event returns to address the future of payments, compliance, and risk

(AsiaGameHub) -   SBC Digital: Payment Expert makes its return today, Wednesday, 15 April 2026, as a dedicated online gathering. It brings together senior executives from payments, compliance, fraud prevention, and regulatory sectors to confront the critical issues defining the iGaming payments environment. With fraud methods advancing, regulatory demands increasing, and technologies like artificial intelligence and stablecoins nearing widespread use, the event will investigate how operators can adjust their payment approaches while maintaining compliance, customer satisfaction, and operational effectiveness. Throughout a day of sessions led by experts, presenters from top operators and payment firms such as Kwiff, ODDSET, Lottofy, FDJ United, Flutter International, Entain, Betsson Group, Superbet, Leovegas, Esports Entertainment Malta Ltd, Paysecure, Chevron Group, Veris.finance, TheLotter, Spyglass Insights, GELSA, CoinGeek, and SBC News will offer actionable knowledge on the industry's reaction to swift transformation. The schedule will concentrate on six key themes influencing the future of payments and compliance: The rise in fraud and AML threats, such as synthetic identities and bonus abuse The expanding function of AI in compliance, fraud identification, and operational performance Payment flexibility as a key differentiator in dynamic markets The practical application of stablecoins for operator payments and settlements The advancement of affordability assessments via open banking and data analytics The dangers and regulatory considerations of Buy Now Pay Later services in gambling Agenda Highlights 10:00 – Payments Under Pressure: Tackling Fraud, AML Risk, and Regulatory Expectations Investigate current fraud and AML developments, from synthetic identities to bonus abuse, and learn about the tactics operators employ to enhance detection, simplify KYC processes, and boost robustness without harming the customer journey. 11:00 – AI in Compliance: Balancing Automation with Human Oversight Analyze how AI is revolutionizing fraud detection, AML surveillance, and compliance tasks, and identify where human supervision is still crucial for successful risk control. 12:00 – Why Payment Agility Defines Digital Winners Find out how top operators are creating more adaptable payment systems to speed up market expansion, foster innovation, and adapt more quickly to new regulations. 13:00 – Beyond the Buzz: How Stablecoins Could Transform Operator Payments Distinguish between speculation and practical use as specialists discuss the application of stablecoins for treasury operations, international payments, and expedited settlements. 14:00 – Rethinking Affordability: How Data is Transforming Safer Gambling Understand how open banking and data analytics are redefining affordability checks, enhancing risk identification, and promoting safer gambling practices. SBC Digital: Payment Expert is a premier online event series concentrating on payments innovation, compliance, fraud prevention, and regulatory developments within the worldwide gaming and gambling sector. Event Details Date: 15 April 2026Format: OnlineRegistration: Open now Registration Admission is complimentary, but capacity is restricted. Register today to guarantee access to every session and collaborate with industry pioneers who are directing the course of payments and compliance. Register Here. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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Operators of Russia’s Illegal Gambling Network Given Suspended Sentences

(AsiaGameHub) -   The individuals who orchestrated a Russian gambling ring involving two illicit land-based casinos have avoided incarceration, as a court has issued them suspended sentences. The ruling was delivered by the Central District Court of Prokopyevsk, located in the Kuznetsk Basin of southwestern Siberia. A judicial panel convicted the six men of “organizing illegal gambling for the purpose of generating income on an especially large scale.” According to prosecutors, the syndicate managed these gambling operations from January 2022 through March 2024. Authorities reported that the organizers leased two commercial properties within the Kuznetsk Basin. These locations were equipped with 15 computer terminals, 14 laptops configured with gambling software, and 12 slot machines. The court was informed that the group hired security personnel, administrators, and other staff, funding their wages through daily casino earnings. Over the course of their two-year operation, the group amassed profits exceeding 8 million rubles (approximately $104,000). A university building in the Russian city of Prokopyevsk. (Image: Sergei) Russian Gambling Network: Court Issues Suspended Jail Terms Following police raids on the casinos in March 2024, several arrests were made and cash was seized from the premises. However, the Prokopyevsk court opted against prison time, instead handing the men suspended sentences ranging from 1.5 to 3 years. As reported by the Russian media outlet Sidepo, all six defendants are subject to probation. Additionally, the court imposed fines amounting to more than 6.3 million rubles (roughly $82,000). The judges further mandated that all gaming equipment and related hardware be forfeited to the state. Debate persists in Russia regarding the Ministry of Finance’s proposal to legalize, oversee, and tax online casinos. Earlier this month, a prominent clinical psychologist warned that remote Russian regions face the highest risk from these potential changes. She cautioned that if the Kremlin approves the initiative, a “strong illegal online casino sector could thrive, and addiction rates may rise” in rural communities. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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Odds, Predictions, and Picks for the PGA Tour RBC Heritage Classic

(AsiaGameHub) -   Following Rory McIlroy claiming his second consecutive Masters title, the PGA Tour’s season continues with the RBC Heritage Classic at Harbour Town Golf Links in Hilton Head, SC. Scottie Scheffler is once again the betting favorite, and we will break down additional value-focused picks after sharing the tournament odds from DraftKings. RBC Heritage Classic Betting Odds at DraftKings Take a look at the odds for top players competing to win the RBC Heritage Classic at DraftKings: Scottie Scheffler +380 Xander Schauffele +1500 Matt Fitzpatrick +1650 Russell Henley +1750 Cameron Young +1800 Tommy Fleetwood +1800 Ludvig Aberg +2200 Collin Morikawa +2300 Patrick Cantlay +2450 Si Woo Kim +2800 Sam Burns +3100 Robert MacIntyre +3100 Jordan Spieth +3100 Jake Knapp +3500 Viktor Hovland +3600 Maverick McNealy +3700 Justin Thomas +4200 Jason Day +4800 Jacob Bridgeman +4800 Sepp Straka +5000 Ben Griffin +5000 J.J. Spaun +5200 Chris Gotterup +5200 Shane Lowry +5200 Min Woo Lee +5300 Harris English +5300 Alex Noren +5900 Akshay Bhatia +6000 Rickie Fowler +6300 Sam Stevens +7800 Ryan Gerard +7800 Kurt Kitayama +7800 Harry Hall +8000 Best Wager on the Favorite to Win the RBC Heritage Classic Xander Schauffele +1500 Xander Schauffele never quite found his stride at Augusta National, but still managed a T-9 finish. The X-Man has been in solid recent form, notching top-10 finishes in four of his last five starts, including a solo third-place showing at The Players Championship. Schauffele ranks 12th on tour in SG: Total. His best result across six career starts at Harbour Town came in 2023, when he finished fourth. This course rewards precise approach play, and Schauffele ranks among the elite in this area of the game. He also sits 35th on tour in SG: Putting, which works well for Harbour Town’s small greens. Best Sleeper Pick to Win the RBC Heritage Classic Sepp Straka +5000 Sepp Straka finished 13th at Harbour Town last year, leading the field in SG: Approach. He has carried that solid play into this season, ranking 20th on tour in that metric. Straka has notched two top-five finishes at this course over the last four years. While he has yet to secure a win so far this season, the Austrian golfer finished T-2 at Pebble Beach and T-8 at The Players Championship. Two of his four career wins came last season, and we are confident in his chances at this week’s signature event given his strong course history. Best Longshot Pick to Win the RBC Heritage Classic Brian Harman +10000 These odds for Brian Harman are somewhat surprising, as he finished tied for third at 14-under here last year. That followed T-12 and T-7 finishes in the two preceding seasons. Beyond the outright win market, consider placing wagers on Harman to earn a top-5 (+1200) or top-10 (+530) finish. Be sure to select bets that include tied outcomes. DraftKings also offers odds for Harman to finish in the top 20 (+245), top 30 (+132), and top 40 (-150). This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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New Bill in Washington DC Proposes Legalizing iGaming and Banning Sweepstakes Casinos

(AsiaGameHub) -   A new piece of legislation in Washington DC seeks to regulate the online casino sector. This bill would make iGaming legal and ban sweepstakes casinos, which currently operate via a legal loophole. “iGaming—online casino-type games like blackjack, poker, roulette, and slot-style games played on mobile phones or computers—is already available to District residents through unregulated and offshore platforms,” stated Wendell Felder, the bill’s sponsor, upon introducing the legislation. The bill is intended to manage the market, safeguard players, generate tax income, and crack down on illegal operators. Felder serves as Chair of the Subcommittee on Local Business Development. The legislation has been referred to the Committee on Human Services, with a public hearing set for next month. Bill Seeks to Provide Consumer Protections “Without a legal structure in place, these platforms function without adequate consumer safeguards, age verification, or regulatory supervision—posing risks to residents and limiting the District’s ability to respond,” Felder further noted. Should the bill pass, Washington DC would become the ninth U.S. jurisdiction to formally allow residents to play online casino games. Maine became the eighth state earlier this year when Gov. Janet Mills signed related legislation in January, though the tribal-exclusive framework is being challenged by the state’s commercial casinos. Felder’s bill would not only legalize online casinos but also prohibit unlicensed platforms, including sweepstakes casinos. The bill’s text defines sweepstakes gaming as “a game, promotional contest, or scheme, whether offered online or in person, in which an individual provides money, consideration, or something of value (directly or indirectly) for the chance to participate in a casino-style game, a simulated casino-style game, a sports wagering-like game, or a lottery-like game and win a prize or its equivalent, including via a dual-currency gaming product.” In Maine, legislators passed a separate bill banning these platforms shortly after approving the iGaming law. Maine is the second state (after Indiana) to prohibit sweepstakes casinos this year, following several states that enacted anti-operator legislation last year. Provisions for Legal iGaming Under the legislation, each sports betting operator in Washington DC would be entitled to launch two branded online casino platforms. Platforms would pay $2 million for a five-year license. Operators would then pay an additional $500,000 for each five-year renewal. DC initially launched sports betting via the Office of Lottery and Gaming’s (OLG) proprietary platform, GambetDC. FanDuel took over as the primary operator in 2024, before other commercial firms launched their services the same year. Currently, alongside FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Fanatics, and Caesars Sportsbook are operational. All these companies are likely eager to launch online casino platforms, which are a key revenue driver. Legal iGaming to Generate Significant Tax Revenue The bill sets a 25% tax rate on gross gaming revenue. Based on comparable markets, Felder claims this will generate “substantial new tax revenue.” “Initial annual tax revenue could reach tens of millions of dollars, with growth expected as the market matures,” said Felder. “These funds could support critical priorities, including behavioral health services, responsible gaming programs, and broader community investments.” From the collected tax revenue, the first $500,000 would go toward problem gambling treatment. The remaining funds would cover the OLG’s operational costs, with the rest allocated to the district’s General Fund. Notably, the bill does not distribute a percentage of revenue to the OLG—only stating that its costs will be covered. Arizona has recently come under scrutiny as the state’s Department of Gaming receives a percentage of tribal gaming revenue. This may create a conflict of interest, which could be a key factor in the regulator’s aggressive legal pursuit of prediction markets. It is in the regulator’s interest to protect existing operators rather than enforce regulations. Felder stressed that in DC, the legal market would be properly controlled, reducing risks for users already using unlicensed platforms. “Inaction carries real consequences,” wrote Felder. “Without a legal framework, revenue continues to flow to unregulated operators, consumers remain exposed to risk, and the District falls behind neighboring jurisdictions that are moving forward. By advancing this legislation, we can bring an existing market into a regulated environment that prioritizes safety, accountability, and public benefit.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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Kalshi Sues Montana Following Arizona Judge’s Decision to Halt Criminal Charges

(AsiaGameHub) -   The ongoing legal conflict between state authorities and prediction markets shows no sign of ending. Montana has become the most recent state to be sued by Kalshi, following a ruling by a judge in Arizona that prevented the state from pursuing criminal charges against the company. “Kalshi is a federally designated derivatives exchange, subject to the CFTC’s exclusive jurisdiction,” the company’s latest lawsuit states for the umpteenth time. Montana was among the first states to issue Kalshi a cease-and-desist letter in March of last year. Following discussions with company representatives, Montana’s Gambling Control Division (GCD) agreed to refrain from further action while its legal case proceeded in Nevada. Nevada managed to temporarily restrict Kalshi’s markets last month. Perhaps emboldened by this success, the GCD sent Kalshi another cease-and-desist letter last week. Second C&D Letter Prompts Lawsuit In reaction to the second cease-and-desist letter, Kalshi filed a lawsuit promptly against the gambling regulator. “The April 2026 C&D letter misrepresented the clear terms of the parties’ prior agreement, asserting that the GCD had ‘conducted an investigation into [Kalshi’s] activities in’ Montana and concluded that they ‘constitute illegal gambling within the meaning of Montana law’,” states Kalshi’s lawsuit. This was also the company's response when Connecticut and Tennessee became the latest states to send such demands in December and January, respectively. “Kalshi faces an imminent threat that the Defendants will attempt to enforce Montana’s preempted state laws against it,” claims the filing. Altogether, 10 states have issued cease-and-desist orders. These orders have failed to halt the platform’s operations but have instead sparked legal disputes. The lawsuit filed against Montana means there are now active court cases between Kalshi and state gambling regulators in all those jurisdictions. Kalshi Strengthened With CFTC in Its Corner In its lawsuit, Kalshi pointed out that a judge in Arizona supported the company's position that its markets are lawful under federal law and preempt state gambling regulations. Arizona took the unprecedented step of filing criminal charges against Kalshi, but Judge Michael Liburdi ordered the state to halt any enforcement actions for the time being. Liburdi initially declined to grant Kalshi a temporary restraining order on April 8. However, he was convinced by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s (CFTC) arguments that it holds exclusive jurisdiction over Kalshi’s operations. He granted the TRO on April 10. “The Court finds that the CFTC has made a clear showing that it is likely to succeed on the merits of its claim that Arizona’s gambling laws are preempted by the Commodity Exchange Act (CEA),” the ruling stated. The CFTC filed lawsuits in Arizona, Connecticut, and Illinois, alleging that the states are overstepping their boundaries in pursuing Kalshi and other operators. Legal Expert: Key Argument Could Defeat Kalshi The contrasting rulings from Liburdi within a few days highlight the complexity of determining whether sports prediction markets should fall under state or federal jurisdiction. Daniel Wallach, a leading authority on the legal status of prediction markets, argues that Arizona can utilize Rule 40.11(a)(1) in the CEA, which explicitly prohibits contracts related to gaming. “A crucial argument Arizona should raise is that the CFTC’s failure to enforce Rule 40.11(a)(1) is contrary to the public interest—a key factor on a motion for preliminary injunction—and therefore requires the denial of the CFTC’s motion,” Wallach stated on LinkedIn. The CFTC did not mention this rule in its motion for a TRO, which Wallach says state regulators should seize upon. “Risky business for the CFTC to claim the right to enforce federal law vs. states in federal court when it won’t even enforce its own regulations expressly banning ‘gaming’ contracts and then waited nearly one year after Arizona’s cease-and-desist letter to Kalshi before filing suit,” he added. However, as one commenter on Wallach’s post noted, “Unfortunately, it’s not about the law right now. It’s all about politics.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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Allwyn reinforces “Millionaire Maker” role through National Lottery updates

(AsiaGameHub) -   Allwyn UK states that upcoming changes to the National Lottery will increase the number of UK millionaires from around 140 per year to approximately 345 annually, effectively more than doubling the figure. This announcement sets the stage for a summer of updates to the National Lottery, with Allwyn confirming both the launch of a redesigned Lotto format and the introduction of a UK-exclusive version of Powerball. Starting June 7, Lotto will adopt a new two-stage draw structure, giving players two chances to win with a single £2 ticket. The change will significantly boost overall winning odds for players — from one-in-9.3 to one-in-4.9 — while retaining the existing prize entry processes. Players can win in one or both rounds, with jackpots starting at £2m and rolling over up to five times before a must-be-won draw. Allwyn believes the enhanced structure will strengthen Lotto’s long-standing reputation as the UK’s “millionaire maker”, with two paths to £1m prizes remaining intact: matching six numbers for the jackpot, or five numbers plus the Bonus Ball for a fixed £1m payout. Complementing the Lotto revamp is the planned rollout of a UK-adapted Powerball game later this summer, marking the first time the global jackpot game will be available outside the US. Priced at £4 per line, UK players will join a shared jackpot pool that starts at around £12m and remains uncapped, with top prizes paid out over 30 years. The introduction of Powerball is expected to generate an additional £1bn for UK Good Causes over its first five years, as Allwyn aims to expand the National Lottery’s appeal through larger jackpots and a broader game portfolio. Supporting the rollout, Allwyn highlighted that the changes follow the successful 2024 transition of the National Lottery to a new operating system developed in partnership with Scientific Games. The upgraded platform has enabled enhanced retail and digital capabilities, forming the backbone for launching new game formats. As part of its retail transformation, Allwyn also began the large-scale deployment of over 30,000 new Wave lottery terminals in August 2025, replacing legacy Altura machines across the UK. Andria Vidler, CEO of Allwyn UK, said: “We are delivering on our promise to bring more games, more entertainment and more innovation to the National Lottery. With extensive upgrades to our digital and retail channels now complete, we have a fantastic summer lined up as we bring these exciting new games to our players. “Lotto has always been the best game to play if you want to become a millionaire. “Our new Lotto gives players two chances of winning £1m-plus for the same £2 they spend today, creating hundreds more millionaires every year. And with its transformative jackpots, we’re certain that our UK-specific version of Powerball will capture the public’s imagination.” The operator added that the dual launch reflects its wider strategy to modernise the Lottery’s offering, increase player engagement and ultimately grow returns to Good Causes, with a long-term ambition to double weekly contributions to £60m by 2034. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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Hands-on workshops bring AI to the forefront at SBC Summit Malta 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   SBC Summit Malta 2026 is rolling out AI-centric workshops aimed at providing gaming industry stakeholders with a concrete, practical grasp of how artificial intelligence is influencing operations throughout the sector. As AI transitions from theoretical potential to real-world use, the gaming industry is growing more focused not on if to adopt AI, but on how to deploy it effectively, ethically, and at scale. The AI workshops at SBC Summit Malta 2026 are crafted to respond to this shift, moving from abstract talks to hands-on practice. Spanning the event’s two-day conference schedule, the workshops are built around active engagement—attendees dive into real-world scenarios instead of just listening to high-level discussions. Every session aims to help participants experiment with ideas, polish their strategies, and gain insight into how AI is already being used in critical parts of gaming operations. Though AI’s roots go back to the 1950s, its prevalence has skyrocketed over the last ten years, touching both popular culture and every sphere of business. This trend peaked with the launch of ChatGPT, which gained 100 million users in only two months—making it the fastest-growing consumer software app in history. Speaking about the choice to expand AI-related content in the conference agenda, SBC’s Senior Conference Producer Natalie Lees said: “The conversation around AI has moved on. The industry is no longer debating whether to adopt it. That question has largely been answered. However, while adoption has accelerated, much of AI’s use across the sector remains relatively basic.” “At SBC Summit Malta 2026, we want to move beyond surface-level applications and help the industry understand how AI can be used more strategically, efficiently, and at scale, through formats that encourage active participation rather than passive listening.” “From AI tools to AI embedded in business workflows: How AI is transforming workflows, decision-making, data, and technology” delves into the most effective methods for adopting and rolling out AI across businesses. Guided by an AI specialist, the workshop features live demonstrations that teach attendees how to use AI to streamline workflows, boost customer engagement, and enable data-driven decision-making at scale. The workshop ‘AI in HR: Empowering Teams, Not Replacing Them’ will examine how HR leaders are successfully integrating AI into their organizations. Experts Rosi Bremec (Independent, Former COO, Game Lounge), JP Xuereb (HR Director, HIT Gaming), Reija Airas (EVP, People, Culture and Communications, Veikkaus), and Christopher Grech Bonett (Founder, R77 Elitetalent) will explore how companies can use AI to enhance team performance while building the trust, communication, and reskilling frameworks needed to help employees adapt to the AI era. With 88% of digital marketers now using AI in their daily tasks, the technology has become an indispensable part of modern marketing. To help stakeholders navigate this evolving landscape, the conference will offer three targeted AI-Marketing workshops. The Future of Casino Search is Vertical AI Manipulation: How Machines Are Rewriting the SERPs Scaling High Volume Content Operations with AI Automation Workshops will also focus on preparing for future regulations and how AI can help professionals stay competitive. “How Affiliate Managers Can Use AI to Stay Ahead of the Competition”will explore ways AI can boost speed and efficiency in outreach, performance analysis, and partner optimization, while “AI in Gaming: Shaping the Industry’s First AI Charter” will examine how stakeholders can contribute to building clear, responsible standards aligned with upcoming EU regulations. SBC Summit Malta 2026 will be held from 28–30 April at the InterContinental Malta, gathering 6,000 industry professionals. The conference agenda will place a strong emphasis on workshops: day one will focus on laying theoretical foundations, while day two is entirely dedicated to hands-on sessions, supported by two workshop rooms running across both days. Get Your Tickets to SBC Summit Malta Reserve your spot at SBC Summit Malta with our VIP Event Pass. Priced at €600, you’ll gain access to everything the event has to offer, including three days of networking, conference sessions, and the exhibition.Interested in an Expo+ Pass? It’s available for €150. If you are an operator or affiliate, you can apply for a free pass! Operators can request a complimentary pass here. Affiliates can apply for their complimentary passes here. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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Gambling Reform Advocate Raises Serious Concerns Over UK Affordability Checks

(AsiaGameHub) -   Dr. James Noyce, a prominent UK gambling reform advocate, has urged the government to halt affordability checks. He asserts that the Gambling Commission lacks transparency regarding the implementation of these measures. Additionally, he supported assertions from horse racing officials that the checks are harming an industry that is a vital component of British culture. Yesterday, Noyce posted an open letter addressed to UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy on X. Previously, Noyce was a key proponent of introducing affordability checks, arguing they were essential to safeguard vulnerable individuals from gambling beyond their financial limits. Now, however, he expresses concern that the current execution is ineffective and is negatively impacting the British horse racing sector. “I am particularly alarmed by reports that these checks will prove unnecessarily burdensome to horseracing bettors, to the detriment of that sport,” wrote Noyce. Today I sent an open letter to the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, @lisanandy — calling on the Government to pause the implementation of financial risk assessments for bettors until a proper evaluation of the Gambling Commission’s pilot scheme has been published… pic.twitter.com/75IkUA1rOT— James Noyes (@jranoyes) April 13, 2026 Last week, the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) initiated a “Save our Bets” campaign to oppose the affordability checks. Noyce concluded his letter by urging the Government to “pay heed to the BHA’s warnings, and to pause these checks until there has been adequate evaluation and scrutiny.” What are the Controversial Checks? The UK Gambling Commission has been conducting trials for enhanced financial checks on bettors. From August 2024 to February 2025, alerts were triggered when a customer’s net deposits—deposits minus withdrawals—surpassed £500 within a rolling 30-day window. Last February, this threshold was lowered to £150. A key criticism is that the Commission has not released a report on the trial's findings. Noyes remarked, “I am deeply concerned over the lack of transparency regarding these checks.” Last year, the UKGC introduced an expanded Consumer Voice framework, designed to create superior, evidence-based gambling policies based on genuine consumer feedback. Nonetheless, Noyes claims the Commission is advancing with affordability checks despite broad opposition. He pointed out that “a Gambling Commission survey of over 12,000 people found 77 per cent of respondents were opposed to financial risk checks.” Checks Collect Personal Financial Data “A financial vulnerability check must include at a minimum a customer-specific public record information check for significant indicators of potential financial vulnerability,” according to Gambling Commission guidelines. The trial intended to assess whether these checks could be “frictionless,” meaning they could be applied without requiring users to submit financial data to continue betting. Noyes backed the checks in 2020, but notes that circumstances have evolved, with users now increasingly cautious about sharing sensitive personal information. “Since 2020, we have seen a global pandemic which has affected gambling consumer behaviour, we have seen a range of financial shocks and fiscal challenges, we have seen increasing concerns over the use and misuse of data in a changing digital landscape,” he stated in the letter. The BHA observed that varying credit scores for the same individual would require operators to request documentation, such as payslips and bank statements, from some users. What’s the Alternative? Gambling firms have come under fire for permitting or even incentivizing users to deposit large sums into betting accounts. In the UK, bet365 was recently linked to the death of a 19-year-old, where the user's gambling addiction was ruled a decisive factor in his suicide. Should affordability checks be paused, as Noyes recommends, platforms might be less likely to intervene in similar cases in the future. Without verification of a user's financial status, it is unclear how a company can determine if a user is gambling money they cannot afford. While losing thousands or even millions of dollars may be acceptable for some, for others, losing even a trivial amount can have devastating consequences for an individual's life. In the bet365 case, the 19-year-old’s account was technically in profit, but a coroner found that he had “exhausted all viable funds and credit” available to him. Could stricter affordability checks have prevented this tragedy? The public backlash against the checks highlights the difficult balance regulators must maintain between consumer protection and individual liberty. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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BetMGM anticipates full year EBITDA to be at the ‘lower end’ of expectations despite a Q1 revenue increase

(AsiaGameHub) -   Entain anticipates a more muted performance from its North America-focused BetMGM joint venture, at a time when the London Stock Exchange-listed group’s share price is experiencing volatile trading. In a Q1 trading update, Entain—along with its JV partner MGM Resorts—projects BetMGM’s net FY2026 revenue to range between $2.9bn-$3.1bn (£2.1bn-£2.2bn). This would signal continued growth compared to the $2.8bn recorded last year. However, Entain noted it expects BetMGM’s adjusted EBITDA to land at the ‘lower end’ of the forecasted $300m-$350m range. This comes despite adjusted EBITDA climbing 11% to $25m (Q1 2025: $22m) in the first three months of the year. By segment, iGaming continued to outperform sportsbook revenue: the former hit $481m, while the latter reached $203m. These figures represent year-over-year growth of 9% (from $443m) and 4% (from $194m), respectively. BetMGM’s total net revenue stood at $696m, a 6% year-over-year increase from Q1 2025’s $657m. The company remains committed to its goal of hitting $500m in adjusted EBITDA by FY2027. Entain emphasized the significance of BetMGM’s iGaming product during the quarter, citing strong player engagement momentum. Meanwhile, the slower growth in sports betting revenue was attributed to player-friendly sports results and ‘increased promotional generosity’. “Although it has been a steady start to the year, BetMGM is delivering on our strategic plan, carrying forward the initiatives that drove our transformation in 2025,” said Adam Greenblatt, Chief Executive Officer of BetMGM. “We are generating sustainable, profitable growth and paying cash to our parent companies. Our iGaming business is growing at scale, and our Online Sports business continues to strengthen despite a challenging market in Q1. “As we look to the rest of the year, we will continue to focus on our areas of strength, particularly in iGaming, multi‑product states, omnichannel in Nevada, and servicing our premium mass sports players. “These give us confidence that we will deliver on our updated 2026 guidance as well as continue on the path to $500m of Adjusted EBITDA in 2027.” Entain’s shares get no relief following BetMGM update Entain’s shares plummeted to a 12-month low immediately after the announcement, dropping from 559.4p to 526.6p between 12:00-12:05pm GMT. The 526.6p price is notable as it matches the lowest level Entain’s shares have traded at since early April 2025. Shares have since partially recovered: at the time of writing (25 minutes later, at 12:30pm), the company’s share price was 544.4p. The London-headquartered, Isle of Man-domiciled operator is at risk of falling out of the LSE’s FTSE 100, currently ranking 98th on the index with a shrinking market cap of £3.48bn. It would need further declines to drop off London’s prestigious public company list in the FTSE Russell’s June quarterly review, but Harbour Energy—an oil and gas firm and FTSE 250 member—now has a higher market cap (£4.47bn) than the Stella David-led company. Other FTSE 250 firms with larger market caps than Entain include Ithaca Energy (£4.25bn), Investec (£4.03bn), Balfour Beatty (£3.96bn) and Aberdeen Group (£3.70bn). Another major concern for Entain’s investors and analysts is the UK tax situation. Remote Gaming Duty (RGD) rose from 21% to 40% earlier this month, and this heavier tax burden is expected to trigger a major restructuring of the British market—key for Entain as operator of the Ladbrokes Coral high-street and online brands. Investors will also closely watch the New York Stock Exchange when trading opens in a few hours to check MGM Resorts International’s share price activity. Its stock has been an outlier in the iGaming space over the past 12 months, gaining market favor and rising over 24% to $36.75. However, it remains to be seen how the market will react to today’s update. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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ADI Predictstreet secures DAZN collaboration amid delayed integration

(AsiaGameHub) -   ADI Predictstreet has secured another major partnership in the sports industry, aligning with the global sports streaming service DAZN. This follows the recent announcement that the Gibraltar-based prediction platform became FIFA's official prediction market partner for the 2026 World Cup. DAZN, headquartered in London, will incorporate ADI Predictstreet into its service to bolster its offering of live and on-demand sports, scores, news, betting, gaming, and FanZone features. This agreement represents another alliance with a sports giant for ADI Predictstreet, coming just weeks after its formation. The platform itself experienced a hesitant launch last week, with all current markets showing $0 in wagers. Notably, a "join the waitlist" prompt suggests the service may still be in a pre-launch or soft launch phase. The display of USD instead of Gibraltar's GIP currency is also curious, as only Gibraltar residents are legally permitted to place bets. These factors may all point to an ongoing testing period before a full launch. ADI Predictstreet markets The company's activities will be closely monitored in the coming months as it scales operations ahead of and during the 2026 World Cup. According to DAZN, this partnership merges sports with prediction. ADI Predictstreet will provide interactive features and unique experiences linked to major sporting events. The company stated that prediction will become an integral "native part of the fan experience," allowing fans to interact with markets and gain probabilistic insights. “DAZN is redefining sports entertainment by making it more immersive, interactive and connected for every fan,” said Shay Segev, Chief Executive Officer of DAZN Group. “Partnering with ADI Predictstreet allows us to embed real‑time prediction directly into the live viewing experience, turning insight and sentiment into a native part of how fans engage with the world’s biggest sporting moments. “With the FIFA World Cup 2026 as a catalyst and our platform as the engine, this partnership is a major step forward in how fans experience sport.” The World Cup will act as a "launchpad," with the partnership covering DAZN's entire portfolio. ADI Predictstreet is planned for subsequent rollout across other major leagues and events to increase engagement further. ADI Predictstreet’s rocky start These significant deals provide their own momentum for the prediction market. Although it just received its first license in Gibraltar last month, partnerships with FIFA and DAZN are likely to provide crucial exposure for its launch. However, its rapid rise has attracted scrutiny. Questions have been raised about FIFA's choice of partner, while investigative reports have highlighted past controversies involving CEO Dimitrios Psarrakis and Principal Council Member Ajay Hans Raj Bhatia, who was photographed with FIFA President Gianni Infantino at the partnership announcement. Journalists have examined Psarrakis' connection to the 'Qatargate' scandal, and Bhatia is reported to have been involved in insider trading, allegedly paying £130,000 to India’s Security & Exchange Board (SEBI) to settle charges. In a statement to the Norwegian outlet Josimar, the company addressed criticism of Psarrakis: “Dimitrios has never been charged with any wrongdoing. Today, he remains a globally recognised blockchain expert and a speaker at top-tier universities, international organisations, as well as professional summits on FinTech, RegTech, Blockchain and the Digital Disruption of Banking and Financial Services around the globe.” Given this series of events, ADI Predictstreet was destined for media attention. After a controversial beginning, the company will now be looking toward a more successful future. Commenting on the deal, Psarrakis said: “This partnership marks a defining moment in how audiences will experience sport. By combining DAZN’s unmatched reach with ADI Predictstreet’s real-time participation layer, we are transforming fans from spectators into active participants. “This is not just an evolution of engagement, it is the creation of a new category where technology, collective intelligence, and global events intersect at scale.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.