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KSA Remains Confident in the Market’s Player Protection Capabilities

14 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   A probe into how easily minors in the Netherlands can access gambling services has resulted in increased collaboration between licensed operators and the country’s regulator, the Kansspelautoriteit (KSA). The regulator was prompted to launch the investigation in 2025 after receiving multiple reports of minors successfully creating accounts with legal online gambling providers. A small set of findings— which the KSA noted do not represent the overall state of the Dutch market— revealed that minors were bypassing strict ID checks during registration by using another person’s bank account, such as that of a parent or a legally aged friend. When the KSA approached online gambling providers to discuss the issue, it received feedback that there was no immediate solution available to address it. However, the regulator has now announced that such a solution “is now available” and will be highlighted during an upcoming technical session with the licensed sector, though the date of this session has not yet been disclosed. Overall, no serious violations were recorded, with the KSA concluding that it is “virtually impossible” for minors to gamble with licensed operators, and that this activity primarily occurs on black market gambling platforms. Michel Groothuizen, Chairman of the KSA, commented: “The KSA is deeply concerned about underage gambling. Fortunately, it turns out this rarely happens with license holders, but we do have clear signs that it still occurs.” “That activity takes place on the illegal market. Illegal providers often have no or low age verification standards and target this young demographic with advertising— for example, via TikTok. “This is extremely harmful, so the KSA is committed to combating illegal supply. We are also placing a stronger focus on educating minors to make them aware of the risks of gambling.” Legal action against offshore operators has been ramping up recently in the Netherlands. Novatech and Fortaprime SRL were the latest to face penalties from the KSA, with fines of €24.9m and €1.8m respectively. It appears the licensed market has had enough of Novatech in particular, as Nederlandse Loterij— the largest legal gambling operator in the domestic market— has initiated its own legal action against the offshore competitor, at a time when channelisation rates are constantly threatened by the growing prominence of illegal gambling. Want to hear more stories like this? Check out the new SBC Media YouTube Channel, the new home of all multimedia content at SBC, where our team deep-dives into the biggest stories across the sports betting, iGaming, affiliate and payments industries. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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Concerns Raised Over Curaçao Gambling Authority’s Credibility After Dutch Legal Challenge to Operator Qbet

14 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   A national media organization in Curaçao is now casting doubt on the nation's gambling laws after the Nederlandse Loterij initiated legal action against Qbet, which is owned by Novatech. This development follows the Nederlandse Loterij describing the Curaçao-based and licensed operator as "the largest illegal gambling site" in the Netherlands. It also comes after a series of fines have been issued in the Netherlands and throughout Europe to companies headquartered in Curaçao. Numerous firms holding Curaçao licenses, such as Stake, Santeda International, and the previously mentioned Novatech, have repeatedly appeared in regulatory statements. The last two companies also manage a vast network of subsidiaries that have faced fines or investigation for either having weak security protocols or for operating in jurisdictions where they are not authorized. This situation has started to worry the country's media, which is beginning to voice apprehensions regarding the Curaçao Gaming Authority (CGA). An anonymous opinion piece in the Curaçao Chronicle stated: “For years, Curaçao has been known as one of the world’s most accessible licensing hubs for online gambling. That position has brought economic benefits, from licensing fees to international business activity. “But it has also created a system where the line between legitimate operations and questionable practices is often blurred. “The current case in The Hague reflects a shift in how regulators are approaching the problem. Authorities are no longer focusing solely on the visible front end – the gambling websites themselves – but are increasingly targeting the infrastructure behind them. “Trust offices, payment processors, and corporate structures are now part of the legal conversation. That shift matters for Curaçao. “Because whether policymakers on the island like it or not, Curaçao is part of that infrastructure. The presence of locally registered entities in international cases is not incidental. It is structural. And that means the island cannot dismiss these developments as foreign legal disputes with no local relevance.” The debate also highlights wider fears about Curaçao's standing internationally. As regulators worldwide intensify their examination of online gambling, there is a growing recognition that being viewed as having lax supervision could negatively impact the island's entire financial services industry. Concurrently, industry representatives point out that corporate service providers are not enforcement agencies and might have limited insight into their clients' international operations. Fraud specialist Alex Wood, who investigated the unlicensed market and directly experienced the risks these sites pose to consumers, shared this view. He managed to register on certain sites, many of which are owned by Santeda, using identities of fictional characters, racehorse trainers, racehorses, and individuals below the legal gambling age. Nevertheless, he cautioned that legally confronting these operators would be a monumental challenge, as payment service providers and social media platforms also benefit from the expansion of the black market. Wood stated plainly: “When it’s cross-border like that, it’s impossible.” However, calls from the Curaçao media to strengthen gambling regulations could mark a pivotal moment. If domestically licensed operators faced more rigorous rules, the spread of their brands into illegal markets might be reduced. The Curaçao Gaming Authority, despite being a popular jurisdiction for operators, has been relatively lenient in addressing international problems related to its licensees conducting illegal activities. In July 2025, the regulator reached an out-of-court settlement amounting to 360,000 Caribbean Guilder (£148,700) with 12 anonymous online casino operators, following a criminal probe that uncovered extensive shortcomings in verifying player identities. This amounts to a fine of approximately £12,391.67 per operator—a trifling sum relative to the revenues these companies are likely generating. Curaçao Gaming Authority introduces new reforms Reforms unveiled today could signal a move toward more stringent regulations, as the authority rolls out new compliance guidelines as part of a comprehensive restructuring of the island's gambling industry under the National Ordinance for Games of Chance (LOK). The rules, set to take effect starting in October 2026, mandate that licensed operators bolster their terms and conditions and adhere to more rigorous regulatory standards. These changes prioritize transparency and consumer protection, with the goal of improving the jurisdiction's credibility and its heavily criticized reputation. Operators are required to provide clear, easy-to-understand terms, guarantee that users explicitly accept them, and openly disclose their identity verification and anti-money laundering processes. The updated framework also brings in tougher penalties, where non-compliant businesses risk fines, license suspension, or cancellation, indicating a potential island-wide move to a more strictly controlled setting. However, as suggested by the country's own media, these new rules might be insufficient. The article went on: “Laws on paper are not enough. What matters is enforcement, consistency, and the willingness to act when standards are not met. “There is also a reputational dimension that cannot be ignored. In an increasingly interconnected world, perception matters. If Curaçao is seen as a weak link in the global regulatory chain, that perception will have consequences, not only for the gambling sector but for the broader financial services industry. “The island faces a clear choice. It can continue to operate in a reactive mode, responding to international pressure case by case, or it can take a proactive approach and define its own standards for what responsible participation in the global digital economy looks like. “The ongoing case in the Netherlands is not just a legal dispute abroad. It is a mirror. And what Curaçao chooses to see – and to do – will shape its position in the global economy for years to come.” 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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Kambi praises Google partnership as a clear testament to its esports expertise

14 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   Kambi is expanding beyond the sports betting sector through a collaboration with Google, seeking to improve the tech giant's esports offerings. Under this agreement, Kambi will supply Google with various esports data sets, such as schedules, match results, statistics, team and player details, and scores. The covered titles feature major games like League of Legends, Counter-Strike, Dota 2 and Valorant. These data packages come from Abios, Kambi's dedicated esports arm. Werner Becher, Chief Executive Officer of Kambi Group, stated: “Teaming up with Google marks a major milestone for Kambi and Abios, serving as a strong validation of the sophisticated data infrastructure and expertise we've built over the years. “Leveraging Google's worldwide reach, this partnership will enhance how global audiences access and experience esports data.” Notably, the agreement does not mention gambling. This seems to be Kambi's first venture outside its traditional betting and gaming market, where it has operated since starting in 2010. Established in Sweden with its main office in Malta, Kambi originally had Swedish B2C betting firm Kindred as a majority stakeholder until a sale in 2014.  Over the next nine years, Kambi gained greater independence from Kindred, finishing with the full repayment of a multi-million euro loan in 2023. Nevertheless, Kindred and its Unibet and 32red brands—currently under French group FDJ United—continue to be a major client for Kambi. The Google partnership comes after a busy period for Kambi in the sportsbook sector, during which it signed agreements to provide its technology and data to entities such as France's PMU, Swedish peer Comeon Group, and Finnish startup SuomiVeto. For its part, the IT and search behemoth Google notes that it intends to deliver more comprehensive esports features to fans via Google Search and the Google App.  Marvin Brischke, EMEA Sports Partnerships Lead at Google, commented: “Esports is seeing rising global popularity, and we are happy to collaborate with Kambi and Abios to expand the range of esports information we offer our users.” Interested in more similar stories? Visit the new SBC Media YouTube Channel, the central hub for SBC's multimedia content, featuring in-depth analysis of major trends in the sports betting, iGaming, affiliate, and payments sectors. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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Renowned DJ Oliver Heldens to Headline INFINITY Florida in 2026

13 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   World-famous DJ Oliver Heldens is set to headline INFINITY Florida for its much-awaited second edition, marking an electrifying end to SBC Summit Americas. Happening on Thursday, June 11, at Miami’s DAER Nightclub and Dayclub, the official closing party guarantees a memorable evening where guests can network, toast the week’s successes, and immerse themselves in a top-tier EDM experience. First launched in Lisbon in 2024, the INFINITY brand made its Florida premiere in 2025, featuring an unforgettable headlining set by Steve Aoki. By blending elite DJs with premium production values, pyrotechnics, laser displays, and free drinks, it creates a festival-like vibe that’s become a signature element of the SBC experience. Previous performers include Afrojack, Alok, Darude, Dubdogz, Galantis, Timmy Trumpet, and Öwnboss. “INFINITY Florida is where we elevate the experience beyond the ordinary. It’s not just about making connections—it’s about crafting a night that guests will remember forever,” stated Rasmus Sojmark, Founder and CEO of SBC. “Oliver Heldens is the ideal artist for this. He brings massive energy, impactful moments, and a set that keeps the audience dancing nonstop from beginning to end.” Oliver Heldens is a Dutch DJ, producer, and radio personality who’s emerged as one of the most well-known figures in electronic music, racking up more than 4 billion streams across the globe. With over 10 years in the industry, he’s earned a reputation for fusing house, techno, and pop elements into a unique sound that’s solidified his place as a mainstay in the international dance community. His breakthrough came in 2013 with ‘Gecko’, a track that achieved triple platinum status and topped the UK charts after a collaboration with Becky Hill. Since then, Heldens has dropped globally popular tracks like ‘Last All Night (Koala)’, ‘The Right Song’, and ‘Turn Me On’, and collaborated with A-list artists including Nile Rodgers, Kylie Minogue, David Guetta, and Armin van Buuren. He’s also remixed songs for acts like Dua Lipa, Calvin Harris, Coldplay, Depeche Mode, Jamiroquai, and Justin Timberlake. Famous for his dynamic, high-energy performances, he now entertains over 2 million fans annually. In 2025 alone, he headlined events at the Indianapolis 500, F1 Dutch Grand Prix, Ultra Music Festival Miami, Tomorrowland, Creamfields, and London’s O2 Academy Brixton. In addition to his own music, Heldens has left a lasting impact through his record label ventures. In 2015, he founded HelDeep Records to support up-and-coming producers and DJs, and the label has since backed artists like ALOK, Chocolate Puma, and Dada Life. He expanded his label lineup in 2020 with OH2 and in 2023 with HILOMATIK, strengthening his influence across various subgenres of electronic music. In 2015, Heldens ventured into a darker, more high-energy techno sound under his HI-LO moniker, making his debut with the track ‘Renegade Mastah’. This project has since become a standalone success, gaining support from industry leaders like Carl Cox, Solomun, Charlotte de Witte, and Amelie Lens, among others. The INFINITY Florida closing party will wrap up SBC Summit Americas, an event that will gather thousands of industry experts from North, Central, and South America for three days of learning, networking, and product exploration. The summit will include an exhibition floor with hundreds of exhibitors and sponsors, a six-track conference program, and a busy calendar of networking activities. Get Your Ticket to SBC Summit Americas:  Group Pass 3+ (VIP Pass): For groups of three or more, this pass offers complete access to conference sessions, the exhibition floor, networking events, and evening parties—all at a discounted rate of $559 per person. The individual VIP Pass costs $779. Secure your Group Pass.Networking Pass: This is your go-to option for maximum networking at SBC Summit Americas, giving you entry to the show floor, SBC Connections, and our evening events (including the Official Opening Party and INFINITY Florida) for only $399. Grab your Networking Pass.  For all other ticket options, click 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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Hong Kong Police Conduct Raid on Fishing Game Gambling Den and Arrest Eight People

13 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   Hong Kong’s Kowloon police have announced the arrest of eight individuals following a raid on an unlicensed fishing machine gambling den. Seven of those taken into custody were customers, while the eighth was the den’s operator, according to the Hong Kong arm of Chinese media outlet On. Fishing machine games are large console devices typically found in video game arcades. Players use virtual water cannons to target fish moving across the screen. Most games grant points for each fish hit, with shots at extremely rare fish earning additional points. Chinese fishing game consoles (Image: aB476DqSZRPSwIWEBdzvNQ/haokan.baidu/Screenshot) These games are extremely popular in both Mainland China and Hong Kong. However, in recent years, gambling den operators have started providing secret gaming sessions in unauthorized temporary arcades. Operators of such dens usually offer cash rewards to players who score high points. Hong Kong Police: Raid on Fishing Game Gambling Den Authorities in Hong Kong’s Sham Shui Po District stated they acted on a tip from a member of the public. Following a thorough investigation, officers raided a commercial space on Cheung Sha Wan Road on the afternoon of April 9. Officers seized five fishing game machines, along with gambling-related items and an unspecified sum of cash. Police have identified the suspected operator of the gambling den as a 54-year-old Hong Kong man with the surname Chan. The suspected patrons consisted of one man from Mainland China, five Hong Kong men, and one Hong Kong woman. The oldest among those arrested was in his early 70s. If found guilty, Chen faces a maximum fine of HKD 5 million (around $640,000) and a seven-year jail term. Patrons found guilty could be fined up to HKD 50,000 ($6,400) and sentenced to up to nine months in jail. Earlier this year, Macao police arrested a self-proclaimed gambling expert on fraud charges.The man, a native of a Mainland Chinese city,is said to have borrowed money from a female client.After losing the funds at two Macao casinos, he attempted to escape and was apprehended at a border crossing. 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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Thai Anti-gambling Advocates Back Calls to Remove Snooker from Gambling Classification

13 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   Leading Thai anti-gambling campaigners support a movement to eliminate the gambling-associated stigma attached to snooker, though some caution that legal reforms could have unintended negative consequences. Snooker is currently experiencing a revival in Thailand, largely driven by the success of Thai player Thepchaiya Un-Nooh. Last month, Un-Nooh claimed victory at the World Open tournament in China. The Thai star defeated Ronnie O’Sullivan—one of snooker’s most prominent figures—in the final. In late March, he also joined the campaign calling for snooker to be removed from the Gambling Act. Under the act, snooker is categorized as a “gambling-like activity” rather than a sport. This means most under-18s are barred from playing, and smaller clubs cannot obtain special operating licenses. Challenges with Snooker’s Gambling Classification The Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), Thailand’s top sports body, last month urged the government to revise the act. The Gambling Act dates back to the mid-1930s. Snooker qualifies as a sport because it is a skill-based activity with clear rules, said Wasin Pipatnachat, a lawyer and manager at the Public Health Network for Managing Health Risk Factors, according to Thai media outlet Nation TV. However, Pipatnachat noted that the problem lies in the fact that players and spectators often place bets on snooker match outcomes. The lawyer added that if the government wants to treat snooker as a sport, all forms of snooker-related betting must be eliminated. He said this would involve introducing new “legal mechanisms” to “prevent the misuse of snooker for gambling purposes,” he further explained. Snooker player Mark Williams competing at the German Masters tournament. (Image: DerHexer [CC BY-SA]) Anti-Gambling Activist Calls for Consensus Among All Stakeholders Thanakorn Komkrit, Secretary-General of the Anti-Gambling Foundation, expressed his support for reclassifying snooker as a sport. But he pondered: “The question is: ‘What has historically linked snooker to gambling?’” Komkrit proposed a meeting of “all relevant parties,” including the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Sports, Sports Authority of Thailand, Snooker Association, professional snooker players, and the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. “They should discuss the legal barriers hindering the process and find ways to remove them,” the foundation chief said. Komkrit stated that a ministerial order is preferable to a legal amendment, as legislation could “potentially turn a minor issue into a major one.” “The Gambling Act is tied to numerous forms of gambling—perhaps hundreds—and amending it would involve overcoming many hurdles,” he explained. “Many countries clearly separate sports from gambling. If snooker is a sport, it must be registered as a club or sports promotion institution with clear regulations prohibiting gambling, and no age restrictions for minors.” Thanakorn also suggested the government should “reconsider whether gambling oversight should remain with existing agencies or if a new body should handle it.” In March, Thai police announced they had “dismantled” the Eu9thaff gambling portal. Officers said they arrested eight people and froze bank accounts the platform operators allegedly used to launder funds. Detectives also seized cell phones and narcotics during a series of raids. 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 Government Blocks An Additional 1,000 Bank Accounts Linked To Gambling

13 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Indonesian government has announced it has blocked over 1,000 bank accounts, as their holders used them to deposit funds into online casino platforms. Indonesian media outlet Antara News reported that the announcement came from the Financial Services Authority (OJK), the country’s top anti-money laundering body. Since launching its crackdown in 2024, the OJK has frozen a total of 33,252 accounts using its Enhanced Due Diligence (EDD) tool. The OJK has ordered all commercial banks in the country to deploy this tool. Banks use the EDD to sift through transaction data for signs of gambling-related activity. If they detect a transaction that appears to be a transfer to an online gambling platform, banks must notify the regulator. Following further checks, the OJK can then issue a freezing order. Indonesian Government Uses AI to Track Down Online Gamblers “Online gambling has a broad impact on the economy and financial sector,” said Dian Ediana Rae, the OJK’s Chief Executive for Banking Supervision. The OJK stated it is also stepping up oversight of the banking sector to ensure financial providers comply with its EDD anti-gambling rules and other related protocols. The regulator noted it has revoked the business licenses of six banks as part of its campaign. The Indonesian government is also partnering with AI startups to combat the relentless rise of online casino platforms. Meutya Hafid, from the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi), said the government has signed agreements with two domestic tech firms. She explained these firms will help provide Jakarta with machine learning-powered tools that can “detect and trace the payment infrastructure pathways frequently used in online gambling activities.” Indonesian media outlet Indoraya News reported that the Komdigi chief said the startups were “creating artificial intelligence-based solutions that are relevant to the nation’s needs.” Earlier this month, police in Medan city said they had dismantled an online gambling syndicate with alleged ties to Cambodia. The Great Mosque of Medan. (Image: Daniel Berthold [CC BY-SA 4.0]) Police arrested 19 people during a series of raids on multiple addresses across the city. 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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Japan’s Aichi Prefecture Ramps Up Integrated Casino-Resort Bid Plans, Seeks an Operator

13 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   Japan’s Aichi Prefecture has revealed plans to develop one of the nation’s first licensed integrated casino resorts (IRs), pending approval. Aichi’s prefectural officials state they are seeking an operator to construct the IR on roughly 50 hectares of “usable land” on Chubu Centrair International Airport Island. This man-made island already houses a major air terminal. Japan’s Chubu Centrair International Airport (Image: 663highland [CC BY 2.5]) The winning IR operator will receive an initial 35-year lease, per the prefecture’s press release. Aichi Prefecture has announced that applications are now open for companies looking to build and operate the IR. Aichi Prefecture, Japan: Open for IR Operator Applications The prefecture noted it will accept applications until July 31. It will then select a potential operator between fall 2026 and spring 2027, before finalizing its bid and submitting it to the central government. The central government has already approved a bid for an IR in Osaka. Construction on the Osaka IR began late last year, with U.S.-based operator MGM partnering with Japanese firm Orix on the project. The provisionally named MGM Osaka is set to open in 2030. Tokyo aims to approve up to two more IR bids by next year, but most Japanese prefectures have shown reluctance—Aichi being the exception. Foreign firms are closely monitoring the situation. Last month, Bally’s Corporation said it would invest in Japan’s casino-resort sector if given the opportunity. Bally’s chairman Soo Kim has previously expressed interest in launching an IR in Fukuoka. Aichi reported conducting a feasibility study with 15 private businesses between February 25 and March 19. The prefecture requires the future operator to purchase the existing Aichi International Exhibition Center, and the initial 35-year permit will be extendable. The prefecture will also retain a buyback clause that takes effect at the end of the 35-year term. Conference Center Aspirations Aichi specifies the operator must agree to build a state-of-the-art conference center at the site. The plans state the site can host no more than one casino, which may make up no more than 3% of the IR’s total floor area. The prefecture expects the operator to develop hotel and tourism facilities covering at least 100,000 square meters. Meanwhile, Japanese police say they are struggling to remove illegal online casino-related web pages and social media posts, despite recent crackdowns. 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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Alberta Gambler Who Was Denied $1M Payout From 888 Promises to Fight for the Funds

13 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   An Alberta-based gambler has been refused a life-altering payout from online casino 888, which attributes the CA$1.3 million ($940,000) winnings to a system malfunction. “On March 16, 2026, I saw my 888casino balance jump to the millions—then watched the casino wipe it all out,” James Kotylak told CasinoBeats. The 42-year-old has been an online player at 888 for three years, having deposited roughly $52,000 during that period. His consistent gambling activity led the operator to place him in the VIP Gold tier. Last month’s gambling session started like any other for Kotylak: “I logged in as I always do and began playing slots,” he said. “I later switched to a Pragmatic Play title called Floating Dragon – Year of the Snake, which has a Jackpot Drop feature.” “That’s when everything went haywire. I had an amazing run on the Jackpot Drop: bronze, sapphire, silver, gold, and then several diamond jackpots each valued at about $85,703.77. My balance skyrocketed from its usual amount to over $1.3 million. I received around 15 emails from 888 congratulating me on those jackpot wins, each stating the amounts would be confirmed within 72 hours.” But those amounts were never verified. Around the same time, players across the Evoke group—including William Hill and 888—reported similar jackpot streaks. The company has tried to invalidate all those winnings, asserting that a glitch led to the unusual payouts. 888 Blocks Payouts As his balance grew, Kotylak continued playing and lost approximately $60,000 of his winnings. He tried to withdraw some money but was restricted to $47,000—despite the maximum withdrawal limit being $50,000. “The $47,000 withdrawal was submitted and marked as ‘in process.’ I went to sleep and checked again at around 6:30 a.m.—the withdrawal was still pending. There was no alert, no account lockout notice, nothing indicating an issue.” Kotylak had already begun planning how to use the winnings. He told his 91-year-old grandmother he would purchase her farm to keep it in the family for years to come. “She was overjoyed about this,” Kotylak shared. “Then I told my daughter. I was thrilled to tell her I could finally give her financial independence, or at least a good start. In the end, the family farm is for her.” He also made financial promises to other friends and family: he told his father he would pay off his debt, and a senior friend with health issues that they no longer had to stress about money. However, he hasn’t received any of the money so far. “Around noon, I tried to log back in and found I couldn’t access the casino at all—only the Safe Cashier section. My real-money balance was zero. That’s when I reached out to support and was told my account was “under investigation and review.” As a loyal VIP for years, this came as a huge surprise.” Players Taking Legal Action to Reclaim Winnings Kotylak got in touch with 888’s support team, but has been frustrated by the company’s inconsistent communication. “The explanations from 888 kept shifting,” he stated. “First, they said my bank had declined the $47,000 withdrawal and returned the funds to my account. But my bank confirmed there was no such transaction—no attempt was made, so there was nothing to reject.” Kotylak received a phone call where the jackpots were attributed to a glitch, and he was told to “trust” the casino. However, he alleges the company lied about reversing the withdrawal before completing a required review. He also notes that they haven’t provided any proof the winnings came from a glitch. Messages reviewed by CasinoBeats show that 888 staff were sometimes unresponsive, occasionally apologetic, and at other times accused him of attempting to exploit the company. Currently, Kotylak is fighting to recover his money, but the absence of a regulated market in Alberta is making this difficult. He reached out to Alberta’s Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), but was told it doesn’t cover 888 since the casino is based overseas. Alberta plans to launch a regulated gambling market later this year. For the time being, 888 operates under licenses from Gibraltar and Malta. Kotylak has contacted these regulators, who told him he needs a “deadlock letter”—something 888 is refusing to issue. A group of UK users is uniting, and Kotylak says he intends to join them in pursuing legal action against Evoke. Lost Winnings Cause Emotional Stress UK users have also reported being denied large payouts from the Evoke group. One user had a heart attack shortly after winning nearly $400,000. His family stated that the stress of trying to claim the funds had negatively impacted his health. “The shock of this has been overwhelming,” his son said. “It’s not just about the money—it’s how the situation was handled. It feels like a genuine injustice, and the stress has taken a severe toll on his health.” Kotylak echoed this, saying the experience has been extremely stressful. “Having a life-changing win like that wiped away by a vague ‘glitch’ with no proof has been devastating,” Kotylak stated. “I’m not asking for preferential treatment—just that the casino be held to the same standards of proof and accountability that they demand from their players.” There is a glimmer of hope for affected players. Last year, UK courts ordered Paddy Power to pay a woman over $1 million after the company refused to honor her winnings. The operator also claimed the funds were credited by mistake, but the courts ruled this didn’t absolve it of its obligations. 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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The Star Entertainment Appoints David Schollenberger as Chief Risk Officer

13 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Star Entertainment Group is pressing forward with its internal organizational restructuring following the appointment of its new Chief Risk Officer. The announcement was posted by David Schollenberger himself on his personal LinkedIn profile, which highlights his lengthy career managing key compliance processes across multiple public and private gaming firms. This appointment is expected to help bolster the company’s standing after a stretch of financial belt-tightening. Notably, Schollenberger served as Director of Compliance and Policy at the Cyprus National Gaming and Casino Supervision Commission from 2018 to 2021. After that role, he joined Metric Gaming as Head of Legal and Compliance for a three-year term. One of his most recent prior positions was Senior Legal Counsel – International at Bally’s Interactive before he relocated to Australia to join The Star as Deputy Chief Legal Officer. Just two months into this role, he has now been named the company’s Chief Risk Officer. The move from Bally’s Interactive to The Star was not a random coincidence, either. In 2025, Bally’s Corporation — the former parent company of Bally’s Interactive (now owned by Intralot) — completed a deal to acquire a 38% stake in The Star Entertainment Group, worth AU$300 million (£158 million). SBC News readers will be aware that The Star reported a net deficit of AU$302 million in 2025, with year-over-year revenue falling by 25% and a AU$26 million decline in EBITDA. On top of that, The Star was investigated by the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Center (AUSTRAC) over suspected money laundering, which prompted the company to pledge substantial investments into its compliance infrastructure. The financial pressures were so severe that the company’s leadership was forced to sell its Queen’s Wharf venue in Brisbane in order to stay operational. At one point, The Star’s shares were temporarily delisted from the Australian Stock Exchange after the company missed the deadline to submit its financial filings. Since completing the deal with Bally’s Corporation, there have been several high-profile leadership changes at The Star aimed at getting the casino back on solid footing. In December, Bally’s Chair Soo Kim took on the role of Board Chairman, while Bruce Mathieson Jnr stepped into the newly appointed Chief Executive Officer position to replace Steve McCann, who resigned from the role. Now that Schollenberger is officially overseeing some of the company’s most strategic responsibilities, The Star appears determined to regain its former standing sooner rather than later. 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’s Pavel Turek Discusses Building the Brand Through Formula 1 Sponsorship

13 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   Allwyn has recently declared an extension of its agreement with Formula 1. While mainly a lottery operator that is growing via mergers and acquisitions, we spoke with the firm’s Chief Officer of Global Partnerships, Pavel Turek, to gain further understanding of how the F1 arrangement has performed during its initial year and the rationale behind prolonging the partnership. Last year, Formula 1 named the company as an official partner, and that agreement was prolonged last month. During an interview the previous week, Turek informed CasinoBeats that the debut year was successful. “Our initial year as an official Formula 1 partner surpassed expectations,” Turek remarked. “We effectively presented the Allwyn brand to a worldwide audience of devoted F1 enthusiasts.” Following a merger with OPAP, the Greek state-licensed gambling operator, Allwyn became one of the globe's biggest gaming firms, ranking just behind Flutter. Transition from Energy to Gaming Established initially as an energy enterprise named KKCG in 1992, the firm was operational in the Czech Republic, the homeland of its founder Karel Komárek, prior to venturing into the gaming sector in 2011. It purchased a controlling interest in the Czech lottery organization Sazka and utilized the name for its gaming operations, which swiftly grew to encompass lotteries in Italy, the UK, and Austria. In 2022, it underwent a rebranding to Allwyn as it pursues global expansion. Consequently, the brand might be unfamiliar to many, yet Turek aims to utilize the F1 arrangement to alter this. “The collaboration not only boosted our brand exposure but also enabled us to engage with a highly involved, international demographic, which serves as a primary value generator for Allwyn,” Turek commented. Developing the Allwyn Brand The company holds interests in various international betting and gaming labels, including Betano, Novibet, and PrizePicks, subsequent to an agreement finalized last year. Concurrently, PrizePicks secured a license from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to access the prediction market sector. Under the F1 agreement, Allwyn has introduced the Allwyn League within the F1 Predict game. A logical progression would be to market prediction markets to F1 followers. Crypto.com also sponsors the sport, yet PrizePicks has allied with its rivals, Polymarket and Kalshi. Nevertheless, Turek underlined that Allwyn was not considering how to steer fans toward the contentious markets. “It is crucial to highlight that this is a brand partnership centered on establishing recognition of the Allwyn name worldwide through pivotal activation initiatives, instead of directly marketing specific products,” Turek explained. “Via F1’s international scope, we can demonstrate our mission of winning together, playing responsibly, and fostering positive community transformation, both globally and locally.” Connecting with Fans Instead of marketing products and advertising directly through F1, Turek noted that the arrangement is more about positively engaging fans. “As Allwyn continues its international growth, our partnerships approach has shifted to concentrate on platforms that offer global scale, steady visibility, and significant fan interaction,” Turek stated. “Formula 1 represents a prime instance of this strategy, blending worldwide reach with prospects for digital, on-track, and off-track activations. “F1 Predict and the Allwyn League are crafted primarily as free-to-play fan engagement mechanisms that reflect F1’s focus on community and innovation,” Turek added. “They aim to improve the race weekend experience in an enjoyable, responsible, and entertainment-focused manner, with predictions confined to positive sporting results like podium finishes or the fastest lap. Our Formula 1 collaboration centers on elevating Allwyn’s international brand presence and strengthening fan engagement.” Maintaining Control Turek continued by stating that the company stays “dedicated to ensuring our partnerships mirror our principles, such as innovation, responsibility, and community influence, as demonstrated through efforts like the F1 Allwyn Global Community Award.” Gaming firms often must navigate the fine line between brand promotion and encouraging gambling. Recently, DraftKings and FanDuel have encountered new lawsuits alleging manipulative tactics that foster problem gambling. Turek mentioned that Allwyn seeks to steer clear of those negative connotations and stressed that responsible gambling is a fundamental aspect of the company's identity. “We have already drawn inspiration from our F1 collaborations to develop a collection of content utilized on social media to promote responsible gaming and the appropriate approach to playing, including the right mindset and maintaining control.” The responsibility segment on the company’s website asserts that “being responsible isn’t just how we conduct business — it’s an integral part of our identity.” 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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Detroit Casino Files Lawsuit Against Rapper Offset Amid $65M Renovation Plans

13 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Detroit casino that is suing rapper Offset has revealed a multi-year, $65 million renovation and expansion plan. MotorCity Casino Hotel initiated legal proceedings against the artist concerning unpaid gambling debts, shortly before he was shot outside a casino in Florida. According to the casino, Offset established a credit line of $100,000 while gambling at the establishment but has failed to settle the amount. Concurrent with filing the lawsuit, the casino also publicized its Elevate the Escape initiative, a project that entails a complete refurbishment of 400 hotel rooms and suites. “MotorCity has always been a destination for enjoyment, and ELEVATE THE ESCAPE signifies the next phase in that narrative,” stated John Policicchio, general manager of MotorCity Casino Hotel. “We are enhancing what patrons already appreciate while adding new, dynamic experiences that are designed for how people currently seek to escape and have fun.” Offset Escaped Casino Debt MotorCity ranks among the top-grossing casinos in Detroit. It reported revenue of $376.1 million last year, accounting for approximately 30% of the city's total of $1.28 billion. The venue's earnings have bounced back since 2023, following a period when strikes affected its financial performance. A few months later, Offset accumulated the debt during a night of gambling in March 2024. The casino tried to directly withdraw the money from the 34-year-old's bank account, as per their agreement. The transaction, however, was declined because of insufficient funds. After waiting more than two years for repayment, the casino pursued legal action on March 30. The suit charges Offset with breach of contract, fraud, and similar allegations. A representative for the rapper indicated he is seeking a resolution, TMZ reports. Following the shooting, former NFL wide receiver Dez Bryant also claimed the rapper owes him $8,000 from gambling. Separately, radio host Ebro Darden asserts that Offset owes him $5,000 from a lost Super Bowl bet. Gambling Debt Allegedly Led to Shooting Gambling debts are also reportedly the reason Offset was shot outside a different casino, the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Florida. The rapper allegedly owes Lil Tjay $10,000 from a bet. During a confrontation between the two artists, police claim an associate of Lil Tjay shot Offset in the leg last week. Lil Tjay was taken into custody and charged with misdemeanor disorderly conduct-affray at the Broward County Jail. He was freed on Tuesday. Offset, for his part, has been discharged from the hospital. He made his first post-shooting appearance at a concert in Arkansas on Saturday, entering the stage in a wheelchair before standing up to perform. 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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Colombia: Petro Must Seek Congressional Approval for Gambling VAT

13 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   Colombia’s Constitutional Court has upheld its prior ruling, denying President Gustavo Petro and his administration the authority to enact "emergency tax decrees" without legislative approval from Congress. This ruling effectively mandates that the Humana government must discontinue the 19% VAT on gambling transactions that has been enforced since March 2021. The administration had originally introduced this tax via an emergency decree as part of a broader effort to increase levies on specific industries and their associated transactions. The Court rejected the emergency decree, which aimed to impose new tax measures on online gambling, tobacco, alcohol, and fuel, reiterating that any fiscal adjustments require formal scrutiny and approval by Congress. Following a review by constitutional judges, it was concluded that the "exceptional circumstances" invoked by President Petro did not satisfy the constitutional requirements of "exceptionality" and "unforeseeability." Consequently, Petro is once again prevented from using emergency powers to raise the VAT on alcohol from 5% to 19%, increase the tax burden on financial institutions by 15% (bringing the effective rate to 50%), or apply a 19% VAT to luxury items such as high-displacement motorcycles and yachts. Online gambling revenue was also subject to the proposed 19% VAT. In total, the government sought to generate roughly COP 11trn (€2.5bn) to mitigate growing social and fiscal challenges. While Petro informed Congress of his willingness to negotiate certain taxes, he maintained that he would not alter charges on gambling licenses, characterizing the industry as a sector that should be subject to "sin taxes." In its decision, the Court also suspended the legal validity of related measures, confirming that Legislative Decrees 1474 of 2025 and 044 of 2026 will remain inoperative pending further constitutional review. This ruling establishes clear boundaries on the executive branch's authority to circumvent legislative procedures, emphasizing that budgetary reforms must be handled through Congress. The focus now turns to lawmakers, as the taxation of gambling remains a priority on the political agenda. The National Congress of Colombia is currently evaluating alternative frameworks, specifically Decrees 0240 and 0241, which suggest a 16% levy on online gambling through two methods: one applied directly to operators and another charged at the point of customer deposit. These proposals also aim to broaden taxation to cover all payment methods, including cash, bank transfers, and potentially cryptocurrency, as part of a wider initiative to capture digital transaction flows. This renewed legislative effort follows the Court’s previous invalidation of a 19% VAT on online gambling based on gross gaming revenue (GGR), which was a key component of Petro’s fiscal strategy. With emergency powers off the table, the government is now utilizing standard legislative channels to seek approval. Fiscal strain continues to mount, with Colombia facing a budget deficit projected at up to COP 30trn, while tax collections have fallen short of expectations according to DIAN figures. Policymakers are increasingly identifying online gambling as a viable tax base to fund public spending, though industry representatives caution that cumulative taxes—particularly those aimed at payment channels and deposits—could stifle sector growth and diminish long-term revenue contributions. Congress is set to evaluate the technical execution of these proposals, including the determination of whether enforcement should be managed by the central government or Coljuegos, as well as how reporting and compliance requirements will be organized. For the gambling industry, while the immediate risk of taxes imposed via emergency decree has been eliminated, the trajectory is evident: taxation is inevitable, but it will be processed through Congress. 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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Singapore’s Gambling Regulatory Authority Announces Chief Executive Succession

13 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   Singapore’s Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) is set to see a major leadership handover this June, when current Chief Executive Teo Chun Ching steps down from his post. Ching, who also holds the position of Deputy Commissioner of Policy, will be succeeded by Tan Sin Heng Daniel, who currently serves as Traffic Police Commander under the Singapore Police Force. His nearly eight-year tenure has covered both structural reform and technological progress. As the GRA noted, one of his most standout achievements was overseeing the 2022 restructuring that converted the Casino Regulatory Authority into the Gambling Regulatory Authority, which extended the regulator’s remit from only overseeing casinos to supervising all forms of gambling activity. This reorganisation was paired with a sweeping legislative revamp, including the introduction of the Gambling Control Act. This new framework replaced multiple outdated laws to enable a more flexible and responsive regulatory approach for the sector. Apart from legislative updates, Ching led the organisation’s digital transformation, during which the GRA upgraded its cybersecurity capabilities and developed sophisticated data analytics tools. These adjustments are reported to have boosted the GRA’s ability to identify and address risks including problem gambling and money laundering. Working in partnership with the Ministry of Home Affairs, the University of Oxford graduate also played a core role in revising the Casino Control Act in 2024. Daniel to take over GRA’s top leadership post Daniel will take the helm of the GRA at a time when the gambling landscape continues to evolve rapidly, not only in Singapore but across the world. With a career that has covered multiple senior roles across Singapore’s Home Affairs ecosystem, the 54-year-old brings a wide range of relevant experience. “As Commander of the Traffic Police, Mr Tan pushed forward major legislative changes that improved road safety, such as revisions to the demerit points system and expanded speed limiter requirements for heavy vehicles,” the GRA stated. “He also forged strong collaborative ties with government agencies and industry stakeholders to deliver safer road conditions for Singapore.” Previously, when serving as Deputy Commissioner (Policy and Transformation) at the Singapore Prison Service, the incoming GRA Chief Executive led major organisational and policy initiatives. The GRA believes Daniel’s experience integrating technology into operational workflows and managing complex policy environments puts him in a strong position to build on the foundations laid by Ching. It remains to be seen whether Singapore will maintain its strict crackdown on unlicensed operators, particularly as these entities have grown more prevalent across the globe recently. Unlicensed operators face a fine of SGD 500,000 (£292,000), as well as imprisonment of up to seven years. Repeat offenders are liable for an even higher penalty of SGD 700,000 and a prison term of up to 10 years, per GRA regulations. The jurisdiction issued a ruling against prediction markets platform Polymarket in early 2025, with Alex Zuo, Investment and Custody VP at Cobo Global, remarking at the time: “If you want to place a wager, you can only use a state-owned gambling company. Otherwise, you will face fines and jail time.” 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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Australian MPs Advocate for Closing Gambling Ad Loopholes

13 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   Australian crossbench MPs are cautioning that regulations for gambling advertisements on podcasts, social media, and through influencers must be strengthened to prevent the exploitation of regulatory gaps. According to a report by The Guardian, a spokesperson for Communications Minister Anika Wells stated that the government's planned partial ban on gambling ads will incorporate more "specific definitions" concerning the timing and placement of restrictions to close potential loopholes. She said: “Further details and specific definitions will be refined through the legislative drafting process, which will include consultation with key stakeholders.” The discussion concerning gambling advertising in Australia has persisted for a significant period. At the start of this month, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese detailed the Labor government's intention to implement "strong and decisive actions" to reduce gambling advertisements nationwide. He stated this move would offer better protection for young and vulnerable people. This position represents an escalation from a 2023 parliamentary report, referred to as the Murphy Report, which put forward 31 recommendations for reforming Australia's gambling regulations – a central proposal was a complete ban on gambling advertisements. However, the government's pace in enacting the report's recommendations has been relatively slow, leading to frustration among many backbench MPs. Closing gambling advertising loopholes The partial ban will mandate that streaming video, music, and podcast platforms, along with search engines and websites hosting gambling content, must verify that users are logged in, are aged over 18, and can choose to opt out of viewing betting content. Dubbed a 'triple lock functionality', the government anticipates this measure will reduce the public's exposure to wagering promotions. Nonetheless, The Guardian has cited "several industry sources" indicating that streaming services, including Apple Podcasts, are contemplating new age-verification systems. There are also suggestions that platforms might remove all betting content completely, arguing that no straightforward method exists to comply with the new rules. At present, regulations pertaining to individual podcasts remain ambiguous; questions have emerged regarding who is responsible for removing gambling advertisements or implementing the opt-out feature. Simone McCarthy, a Gambling and Public Health Researcher at Deakin University, argued that current rules require further tightening to address grey areas involving podcasts and social media. She said: “When people work with advertisers on podcasts, they often do an ad that is embedded in their podcast, so it … doesn’t sit separately to the whole content. If the ad itself is kind of built into the podcast itself, being read by the host, you can’t just turn that off. “We just know that podcasts are hugely popular with younger audiences and … they’re not easy to regulate in terms of age access and age gating that the government hopes to do. So I think it can create a bit of a blind spot in current policies that are built around platforms where audiences can be more clearly separated.” She added that this strengthening of rules should also extend to social media platforms, warning that content creators and influencers might discover methods to disseminate wagering content on sites like Instagram, X and others. “We know that if we leave gaps in gambling regulation, the industry doesn’t hesitate to just move into those gaps,” she said. The question of protection Earlier this month, Albanese clarified in a speech at the National Press Club that the crackdown on gambling ads is part of the government's effort to strike a balance between "letting adults have a punt if they want to, but making sure our children don’t see betting ads everywhere they look.” However, the effectiveness of the partial ban was questioned last week when a new report from the Office of Impact Analysis (OIA) concluded the measure would only cut the annual amount wagered by AU$62.7m (£33m) – a reduction of roughly 0.8%. The OIA's report indicated that the advertising restrictions would affect 2,461 industry participants, including betting firms, broadcasters, podcasters, and streaming services. Independent Senator David Pocock remarked that the presence of gambling ads in popular podcasts demonstrates how "this predatory industry innovates and pivots quickly to target new mediums and markets". He believes additional action is necessary. He said: “Protecting Australians, especially children and young people, from gambling advertising on popular online platforms from podcasts to Spotify to YouTube seems almost unworkable under the current proposal. “The government’s own analysis found that this partial ban is going to cost more to enforce and deliver less benefits to the nation.” Independent MP Kate Chaney, supported this perspective, suggesting the government's reforms need to reassign the responsibility for opting out of wagering ads. She added: “Calling it a ‘triple-lock’ makes it sound much more protective than it actually is – most families share streaming accounts and unless parents painstakingly go through each platform, website and streaming service and manually find and activate the opt-out options, gambling ads will continue to be seen. “There is little real-world evidence to suggest an opt-out model will reduce the social, emotional and financial harms caused by gambling in Australia.” The debate over how extensively gambling advertisements should be restricted in Australia continues intensely, with no immediate resolution in sight. Yet, judging by recent developments, demands for stricter limitations seem to be gaining traction – suggesting the era of hearing betting ads in podcasts or on social media may be drawing to a close. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. 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LiveScore cuts losses to £27m as 2026 tax increases loom

13 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   LiveScore Group has substantially reduced its losses and crossed the £200 million revenue threshold for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025.  In its corporate filings with Companies House, LiveScore’s leadership reaffirms its ongoing investment strategy aimed at boosting product efficiency and enhancing the margin performance of its flagship brands.  The company—owner of the Virgin Bet, LiveScore Media, and LiveScore Bet portfolio—recorded a corporate turnover of £206 million, marking a 15% rise from the £179 million reported in FY2023/2024.  The annual results highlight a notable improvement in LiveScore’s financial efficiency, with the firm slashing its operating losses by almost half—from £51 million in FY2023/2024 to £27 million this year.  The EBITDA loss also narrowed significantly toward break-even, improving by more than 60% as it dropped from £38.8 million to £15.2 million.  The group’s overall accounts were finalized in line with expectations, with the company noting: “As part of our overall growth plans, the business incurred substantial expansion and marketing costs. The reduced operating loss stemmed from a rise in gross profit that outpaced our continued heavy investment in marketing and the LiveScore brand.”  Emerging Opportunities for LiveScore LiveScore continues to invest heavily in marketing, technology, and global expansion—most recently entering the South African market with Virgin Bet. While these costs have been substantial and played a major role in the £26.7 million loss, revenue is starting to rise as the company gains a foothold in key global markets.  However, the company isn’t expanding indiscriminately: it exited the Netherlands in late 2024 due to tax hikes and advertising restrictions, and also withdrew from Bulgaria at the end of 2025, citing regulatory challenges in Europe.  Looking forward, the company will approach strategic expansion cautiously, as tax increases become increasingly common in key global markets. Such hikes have recently taken effect in its home country, the UK, and there’s widespread talk of a tax rise in South Africa—where LiveScore has just launched.  According to the accounts: “On March 31, 2025, a subsidiary of the Group, Virgin Bet South Africa, was awarded a Bookmaker Licence by the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board. In October 2025, the same subsidiary obtained an Mpumalanga Bookmaker Licence. The Group officially launched in the South African market in February 2026.”Competition in the iGaming sector is also intensifying ahead of the 2026 World Cup, especially with the rise of prediction markets, which are not bound by the same regulations as traditional iGaming firms like LiveScore’s LiveScore Bet and Virgin Bet.  LiveScore’s FY2024/25 results indicate the company is on the right track, but with over 600 employees (per filings), it remains cautious of economic headwinds and growing competition as it pursues its global expansion strategy.  Although losses have been sharply reduced, tax hikes and advertising restrictions are among the key potential concerns for the group going forward.  Heading into 2026, management identifies higher regulatory costs and gaming taxes as major risks to the business—including a significant adjustment starting April 1, when the UK government will impose a 40% tax on remote gambling duties (RGD).  From 2026 onward, LiveScore will need a period of alignment to navigate a new ‘cost pressure environment’ where increased taxes impact its commercial and investment strategies. Consequently, the company’s directors have not set a timeline for achieving profitability.  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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121 South Korean Teenagers Confess to Gambling Crimes Under Police Amnesty

10 4 月, 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   South Korean police say their crackdown on teen gambling is delivering positive results, as law enforcement agencies across the country roll out amnesty periods. As part of a program in Gyeonggi Province, the region surrounding Seoul, officers confirm 121 young people have submitted “voluntary confessions” for gambling-related offenses, according to South Korean news agency Yonhap. The police force’s campaign operates a series of three-month self-reporting windows. During these periods, law enforcement notes that people who turn themselves in are eligible for clemency and access to resources for gambling addiction support. Officials said the most recent amnesty period was held from January 1 to March 31. Police added that they have carried out follow-up investigations into 117 of the individuals who came forward. Over the course of the force’s latest amnesty period, police called on parents and guardians of young people with gambling addictions to step forward. Officers stated that parents and guardians can expect lenient treatment for the minors in their care during the amnesty. Gyeonggi Southern Provincial Police representatives said 109 people, making up 90.1% of the total, submitted confessions for their own offenses. The remaining 12 individuals had their gambling-related crimes reported by their parents or guardians. Gyeonggi Southern Provincial Police officers. (Image: @gyeonggipol/Facebook) Pledges of Leniency Officials said 81 of the confessors are high school students, while the remaining 40 are currently enrolled in middle school. Most of the teens told police they began gambling after getting “suggestions from friends” or after coming across online advertisements for gambling platforms. Young offenders who gambled small sums may avoid formal penalties and only receive a caution, police said. Repeat offenders or people who spent large amounts on gambling may face further investigations, officers added. Police said they will consider a wide range of factors during the amnesty period when determining whether to press charges. Teen offenders who show sincere remorse and make consistent efforts to quit their gambling habits may avoid punishment entirely, a spokesperson said. The spokesperson noted the amnesty had produced “meaningful outcomes” and committed to launching further amnesty programs in the future. Police said young people who want to voluntarily report their offenses can reach out to a toll-free police hotline. “Voluntary reporting is not a loophole to evade punishment. It is a first step toward genuine recovery,” said Hwang Chang-sun, the Gyeonggi Southern Provincial Police Commissioner. “We will keep providing support services to young people.” Teen Gambling: More Provincial Law Enforcement Launch Targeted Campaigns Gyeonggi’s announcement follows shortly after the launch of a new teen amnesty program in South Gyeongsang Province. Police in South Gyeongsang Province said residents under 19 living in the area can come forward before the end of June to make confessions. Officers added that people who do so will get access to specialized counseling from care professionals. A similar initiative that concluded in February led to six teens submitting confessions. 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.