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Clerk Addicted to Gambling Allegedly Took Thousands of Dollars from Mini-Market Safe

(AsiaGameHub) -   An Indonesian mini-market employee with a gambling addiction allegedly forced open the store's safe and fled with 52 million Indonesian rupiah (more than $3,000), which police say he then gambled away on online casino sites. According to reports from the Indonesian media outlet Liputan 6, the clerk managed to lose the entire stolen sum in a mere three hours. Authorities in West Jakarta's Jeruk district stated the incident gained widespread attention online after security camera video of the purported theft was shared across social media platforms. Police reported that the accused was on overnight duty at the 24-hour convenience store on February 22. Once CCTV recordings seemed to capture him entering a room on the second floor and opening a safe, the suspect fled. This initiated a search lasting two months, which concluded when he was located at a hideout in the Kebayoran Lama residential area of South Jakarta. Inside an Indonesian mini market. (Image: @syahrultoko8762/YouTube/Screenshot) Indonesian Lost Stolen Cash in 3 Hours Officers stated the suspect offered no fight when they stormed the location on the afternoon of April 13. Police said that after taking the money, the suspect "promptly transferred the funds into his private bank account via an ATM located inside the mini market." The owner of the mini market was not initially aware the money was missing. The theft was only discovered after the owner found inconsistencies between the register's sales records and the actual cash on hand. Following an extensive review of security footage, police were ultimately able to pinpoint the suspect. Investigators revealed the man has confessed to the offense. He acknowledged he had developed an addiction to online gambling. The individual now faces theft charges. A conviction could result in a prison term of up to seven years. Gambling in all its forms is prohibited in Indonesia. A recent government campaign targeting online casino patrons has resulted in the freezing of bank accounts belonging to more than 33,000 citizens. 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 Influencer Beer Anusorn Pothong Reveals Online Gambling Ruined His Life

(AsiaGameHub) -   “Beer” Anusorn Pothong, a Thai influencer boasting more than 7.2 million TikTok followers, states that an addiction to online gambling destroyed both his personal life and career. According to the Thai news source Khaosod Online, the social media figure, who also has 835,000 Facebook followers, revealed that his debts from gambling ballooned to approximately $621,000. Pothong explained that he took loans from his brothers, sisters, and other relatives. He reported having repaid around $155,000 of the total so far, but still has about $465,000 outstanding to family members. The celebrity affirmed his dedication to changing his behavior and is currently repaying his debts at a daily rate of $3,700. In a Facebook video that garnered 274,000 likes, Pothong described how he was lured into online gambling under the false impression it was a fast method to earn cash. Nevertheless, he said the habit quickly became uncontrollable, depleting his entire savings and reducing him to poverty. The Thai Influencer “Beer” Anusorn Pothong (Image: @beeranusorn/TikTok/Screenshot) ‘Beer’ Warns Fans Not to Gamble Pothong claimed his gambling addiction caused him to “lose everything,” resulting in a loss of trust from his family and severe damage to his business. He started a personal care product line, but confessed the addiction has devastated the venture. “I have to settle all my debts,” Pothong informed his audience in the video. “Each day, I’m surviving on just a baht or two. I run a cleansing products business, but I lack the funds to purchase more inventory.” “I created this video for my supporters,” he stated. “I won’t be upset by any criticism or schadenfreude. I appreciate the wake-up calls. And I am deeply grateful to those offering words of support.”Pothong pleaded with his followers to avoid online gambling sites. He cautioned that with online casinos, “the house always wins.” “I must caution my fans and followers: Stop if you are able,” he urged. “Anyone who has repeated my error, anyone who gambles, it destroys your family. You will collapse and never recover.” He added that the psychological impact of online casino addiction can be equally harmful as the monetary losses. In the previous month, police in Phitsanulok, Phitsanulok Province, executed eight arrest warrants following the takedown of an online gambling site called Eu9thaff. Authorities stated that four additional suspects are still wanted. 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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Oklahoma Nearing Authorization of Sports Betting

(AsiaGameHub) -   Oklahoma legislators have declared that they are “closer than ever” to authorizing sports betting. The state is still among the minority in the US that does not provide either retail or internet betting options. Sen. Bill Coleman and Rep. Ken Luttrell stated that they have secured a deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder and tribal leaders to advance legislation that had been stalled for a year. “Today is a significant moment for Oklahoma,” Coleman remarked in a press statement. “We are nearer than ever before to making sports betting legal.” Coleman and Luttrell have updated HB1047, a bill that passed the House with a 62-31 vote in March 2025. Although the bill hit a roadblock in the Senate, legislators anticipate a Senate vote on the measure within the next week. “This updated bill results from thousands of hours of discussions spanning several years,” Coleman noted. He has been striving to legalize sports betting ever since the repeal of PASPA in 2018. OKC Thunder and Tribes Support the Measure The suggested amendment to HB 1047 would authorize retail and mobile sports betting via the state’s tribal entities. These tribes would subsequently collaborate with commercial operators, like FanDuel and DraftKings, to roll out online services. Coleman and Luttrell indicated they negotiated the bill’s terms alongside the tribes and the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Thunder has backed the sports betting initiative since the previous year. Under the new amendment, revenue derived from bets on NBA and WNBA games would be directed into the Strong Readers Fund to aid early childhood literacy initiatives. Tribes would retain the bulk of the revenue while remitting 8% of their earnings to the state. “This deal honors our tribal allies and demonstrates teamwork with our NBA franchise to establish a lawful, transparent system capable of competing with the unregulated black market and dubious prediction markets,” Coleman stated. “This has been a lengthy journey,” Luttrell continued. “We have dedicated years to ironing out the details, heeding our tribal partners, and cooperating with stakeholders such as the Oklahoma City Thunder to ensure this is done correctly.” Oklahomans Are Already Placing Sports Bets “Oklahomans are already wagering via alternative platforms or traveling across state lines to place legal bets,” Coleman remarked. “It is time for us to unite and support this proposal, which safeguards consumers and retains those funds within Oklahoma to aid our state.” Neighboring Missouri started its sports betting market last year, and Wisconsin enacted legislation last month to permit online betting. Oklahoma is currently among the 11 states lacking legal sports betting, yet the emergence of prediction markets has effectively enabled residents to engage in sports gambling. “The current outcome mirrors that effort and offers Oklahoma the opportunity to finally bring this activity into a lawful, regulated framework,” Luttrell stated. “This entails keeping those funds locally, boosting our economy, shielding consumers, and funding essential services. We have completed the groundwork, and we are now ready to proceed with a plan that incorporates years of feedback and thoughtful deliberation.” Governor May Veto the Bill The Senate is now expected to vote on the amended bill, which must receive House approval once more because of the changes made. Upon passage, Governor Kevin Stitt would need to sign the legislation into law. Nevertheless, it is not certain that the Governor will refrain from vetoing the measure. Stitt has previously criticized a tribal-exclusive model for sports betting and has voiced general disapproval of expanding gambling within the state. “It’s terrible,” Stitt commented during an interview last autumn. “If it were up to me, there would be no gambling at all. It is a travesty.” Regarding the recent effort to legalize sports betting, a spokesperson for the Governor remarked, “Governor Stitt has made it clear that he will only back a free-market approach to sports betting in Oklahoma. Since no legislation has arrived at his desk yet, we will not discuss the details of pending bills.” 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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Man Arrested for Threatening PrizePicks Staff Over $50 Loss

(AsiaGameHub) -   A PrizePicks customer who alleged he lost $50 on the platform was taken into custody after directing graphic threats at employees. Aaron John Sasser claimed he was en route to the firm's Atlanta, Georgia office, armed and prepared to detonate the building. Sasser started dispatching the threatening communications on April 3 at approximately 7 a.m. He specifically targeted PrizePicks CEO Mike Ybarra, declaring, “Hey there Mike Ybarra. You better leave town because I’m driving down to Atlanta to blow up the PrizePicks headquarters and then I’ll head to your house, tie you up and rape your wife in front of you.” An unsealed affidavit reveals he subsequently issued comparable threats to co-founders Adam Wexler and Jay Deuskar. Chatbots Fail to Grasp Severity of Threats The automated PrizePicks chatbot replied, “I’m sorry to hear you’re feeling this way. Would you like me to connect you with a human agent? Or if you want, you can share more about what’s on your mind and I’ll do my best to help.” There was a delay before a human agent joined the conversation. During this interval, Sasser stated he was already traveling to the office “to kill every PrizePicks team member.“ “Got my AR fully loaded & and extra two mags,” he continued. “I’ve got Mike Ybarra engraved on one ofthe bullet casings”. A PrizePicks support agent answered, “I’m so sorry for this inconvenience. Please allow me a few moments to look into this for you.” Sasser noted the absence of urgency from the support team, adding, “Wonder if you’ll get the point before everyone is dead, Mike Ybarra”. Loss of $50 Triggers Threats Sasser later clarified that the threats were prompted by a $50 loss on the platform. In his home state of Maryland, PrizePicks provides daily fantasy sports (DFS) games and prediction markets launched in collaboration with Kalshi. While Sasser did not specify the nature of his loss, he threatened, “If my $50 doesn’t end up back in my bank account before 5pm today, I’m going to drive down to Atlanta, Georgia and kill everyone in the PrizePicks office.” The support agent informed him that if he did that, then his account would be banned. The final communication from support arrived at 7:17 a.m., more than 20 minutes after the initial explicit threats. A staff member wrote, “I am sorry to hear that you are upset. May I please have the email address on account?” Sasser retorted, “You have my email address you dumb b****!” Threats Carry Lengthy Prison Sentence It remains unknown whether he actually intended to act on the threats. The criminal complaint alleges he transmitted “an interstate threat to kidnap or injure.” A conviction for this crime carries a potential penalty of up to 20 years in prison, owing to the detailed threats involving explosives. After his arrest, Sasser was released to his father's custody, but the court ordered him to undergo strict home confinement. The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia also prohibited Sasser from contacting the named PrizePicks executives, participating in any gambling activities, and using real-time customer support services. While athletes often receive threats from gamblers, it is less common for company executives to be singled out. PrizePicks has not issued a public statement on the incident, but its terms of service specify, “We do not tolerate any abuse or harmful treatment toward our support representatives, or any other PrizePicks employee. If our chat transcripts indicate that you directed abusive or otherwise threatening language toward our staff, we reserve the right to permanently remove your live support privileges and terminate your account.” 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 York Attorney General Accuses Coinbase and Gemini of Running Illegal Gambling Operations Through Prediction Markets

(AsiaGameHub) -   New York Attorney General Letitia James has initiated legal action against Coinbase and Gemini, accusing the firms of operating illegal gambling via their prediction market services. The two companies have recently launched markets that allow trading on the outcomes of sporting events, elections, and awards shows. James stated that “these prediction market platforms meet the legal criteria for gambling in New York” because the results are unpredictable, beyond a participant's influence, or dependent on chance. These activities are being conducted without the required gambling licenses. The state's gambling industry is tightly controlled, with just nine authorized sportsbooks. “Calling it something else doesn't change what it is; gambling by any other name is still gambling,” James remarked in a press release. “The prediction markets run by Gemini and Coinbase are simply unlicensed gambling businesses that lure young users to addictive sites without proper protections. We are acting to safeguard New Yorkers and prevent these platforms from breaking the law.” Prediction Markets Encourage Underage Gambling Beyond the licensing issue, James challenges the platforms' policy of permitting users below the legal gambling age to engage. While the legal age for gambling in New York is 21, these prediction markets accept participants as young as 18. The complaint warns that “Introducing minors to online gambling poses serious risks to their mental health and financial stability,” referencing National Institutes of Health data linking early gambling exposure to higher rates of depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and monetary problems. This action follows a recent lawsuit James filed against Valve, contending that the video game company's loot boxes also promote underage gambling. The lawsuits further claim that Coinbase and Gemini break state law by permitting wagers on college sports games that include teams from New York, which is expressly forbidden. James Wants Companies to Pay Back Profits James also highlights that the companies are not paying taxes like licensed sportsbooks. New York imposes a 51% tax rate on gambling operators, the nation's highest, which generated $1.32 billion in state tax revenue in the previous year. To address the financial impact, James is seeking a court order for the companies “to disgorge all illicit earnings, provide restitution to affected consumers, and pay penalties amounting to three times the profits gained from their unlawful conduct.” Multiple Legal Battles in NY Against Prediction Markets Separate from the Attorney General's lawsuits, the New York State Gaming Commission issued a cease-and-desist order to Kalshi last year. Kalshi subsequently filed a lawsuit against the regulator, which has temporarily halted enforcement pending the litigation's outcome. Kalshi and Polymarket are not defendants in the Attorney General's current cases, but both are confronting class-action lawsuits in the state where users make parallel accusations of operating illegal gambling schemes. State legislators have additionally proposed a bill that would explicitly ban prediction markets centered on sports, political outcomes, death, and war. 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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Top Player Props for Canadiens-Lightning NHL Playoff Game on Tuesday, April 21

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Montreal Canadiens and Tampa Bay Lightning face off this evening for Game 2 of their first-round NHL playoff series. The game begins at 7 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on ESPN2. Montreal secured a surprise victory in Game 1 on Sunday, led by Juraj Slafkovsky’s overtime goal which completed his hat trick in the 4-3 win. For tonight's matchup, DraftKings lists Tampa Bay as a -192 home favorite, with the over/under set at 5.5. Currently, the Lightning have attracted 76% of the total bets and 83% of the betting tickets. Leading Player Props: Canadiens vs. Lightning With Tampa Bay anticipated to recover, we have identified three player props for the Lightning and one for the Canadiens. Andrei Vasilevskiy OVER 21.5 Saves (-110) Andrei Vasilevskiy entered the postseason as the premier goaltender. His regular-season goals against average of 2.33 was second only to Colorado’s Scott Wedgewood (2.07). However, Wedgewood only made his first NHL playoff start during Sunday’s victory over the Kings. Consequently, we anticipate the veteran Vasilevskiy will bounce back tonight after recording just 15 saves in the series opener. Nikita Kucherov OVER 1.5 Points (+105) Nikita Kucherov finished the regular season with 130 points, trailing only Edmonton’s Connor McDavid for the league lead. Kucherov maintained his high level of play in Game 1, recording two assists and firing five shots on goal. Given that Tampa Bay is expected to dominate Montreal’s youthful defensive unit, Kucherov should be able to secure at least two points. Jake Guentzel OVER 2.5 Shots (-150) While the odds are a bit steep, Jake Guentzel plays a key role alongside Kucherov in maintaining offensive pressure for the Bolts. Guentzel had four shots on goal in the first game. He has surpassed this shot total in four of his previous six outings, including a four-shot performance against Montreal late in the regular season. Juraj Slafkovsky Anytime Goal Scorer (+195) It is surprising that Slafkovsky’s odds remain this high considering his scoring record against Tampa Bay. Beyond Sunday’s hat trick, the talented winger also netted four goals across four regular-season meetings with the Lightning. He also led all players with seven shots on goal against Vasilevskiy in Game 1. With his knack for generating dangerous opportunities, he is a strong candidate to find the net tonight. 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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Chinese Anti – Gambling Campaigns Lead to Police Raid on Cemetery and Arrest of an Octogenarian

(AsiaGameHub) -   Authorities in Hong Kong and various Mainland Chinese provinces are intensifying their efforts against illicit gambling in public areas, resulting in numerous arrests across multiple operations. According to China.com, a Chinese media source, Hong Kong police initiated an operation on April 16 to dismantle an unlawful street gambling syndicate operating in Kwai Chung. Law enforcement officials reported the apprehension of four Hong Kong residents at the location. All suspects are male, ranging in age from 68 to 82. Investigators confirmed the confiscation of gambling equipment and an unspecified sum of money during the raid. The individuals arrested are scheduled to appear jointly at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts on April 30. A residential estate in Kwai Chung, Hong Kong. (Image: WiNG [CC BY-SA 3.0]) Gambling Enforcement in China Concurrently, within Hangzhou province, the provincial Public Security Bureau disclosed that Xindeng police utilized drone technology to locate and detain a group believed to be engaged in gambling at a hillside pavilion situated within a public cemetery. Authorities stated that 13 individuals were apprehended, and gambling funds totaling 10,000 yuan (approximately $1,470) were seized. Various gambling implements were also confiscated by officers at the site. Investigators indicated that the suspects selected the location due to its secluded and inaccessible nature. However, after police observed a suspicious gathering at the pavilion on April 14, a drone was deployed. Within five minutes, officers reported, the drone transmitted “clear images of multiple individuals assembled in the pavilion, placing wagers.” Law enforcement officials confirmed that all suspects have been charged with offenses related to gambling, adding that their investigation remains ongoing. The Emergence of "Forest Gambling" Throughout China, police forces are reportedly combating a significant increase in what is termed “forest gambling.” This practice generally entails groups of gamblers arranging to convene in secluded, predominantly rural locations. Participants purportedly hold the belief that unlawful gambling is secure when conducted in areas not typically patrolled by police. However, Chinese police assert that they now possess a wide array of drone-enabled technologies assisting them in identifying groups of gamblers in forested regions, derelict structures, lakeside retreats, and mountainous terrains. Furthermore, certain police agencies have deployed small teams of officers to conduct daily foot patrols in remote and semi-rural locales. These patrols primarily monitor activities within small, confined village pathways and dense woodland areas to counteract the proliferation of “forest gambling” operations. 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 Police Nab 68 in Raid on Dogfighting and Gambling Ring

(AsiaGameHub) -   In Daegu, South Korea, authorities have apprehended 68 individuals following a raid on a facility believed to be involved in dogfighting and gambling. According to South Korean broadcasters TV Chosun and TBC, many of those arrested were reportedly observed placing bets on the outcomes of animal fights. Police, alongside activists from the animal welfare organization Korean Animal Welfare Association, indicated that the fights were conducted in an undeveloped area within an industrial complex near the city. Investigators estimate the fights took place within a “3-meter by 3-meter iron cage,” with spectators seated on camping chairs to observe the events. Animal rights advocates reported finding "fighting dogs used for gambling purposes" tethered in the bushes near the location. Officers also discovered additional animals "chained to the guardrails on nearby roads." Investigators stated that the gamblers wagered sums amounting to "tens of millions of Korean won" on the results of these illicit matches. During the police raid, the majority of the suspected gamblers attempted to escape. However, detectives reported that most were apprehended by police netting deployed to secure the single entrance to the industrial complex. Dogfighting & Gambling: Police Charge 68 People A representative from the animal welfare charity described the scene as "absolute chaos," noting, "People were gathering near the entrance to escape, vehicles were swarming in, and car horns were blaring." A dog rescued from a suspected dogfighting ring near Daegu in South Korea. (Image: Korean Animal Welfare Association/Screenshot) Authorities reported that numerous dogs found at the site had sustained severe injuries, and several are currently undergoing veterinary treatment. Activists shared that one dog was discovered in a "horrific condition," reportedly suffering from broken teeth and a severely gashed leg following a particularly brutal fight. The suspects have been charged with animal abuse-related offenses and illegal gambling. Police are continuing their investigation to identify the individuals believed to be orchestrating the gambling operation. Investigators also reported finding syringes and various illicit substances at the scene, which they believe were administered to the injured dogs. Punishments are Too Lenient, Say Critics In South Korea, the maximum penalty for causing injury to an animal for gambling-related purposes is two years imprisonment, with the possibility of a fine up to 20 million won (under $14,000). However, critics argue that these penalties are excessively "lenient." Late last year, animal rights activists in the southern part of the country raised concerns about the increasing prevalence of dogfighting rings. Activists have stated that court and police efforts to combat illegal dogfighting are "lax," which has contributed to a "resurgence" of dogfighting and associated gambling activities in regions including South Gyeongsang Province. 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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Betting Odds, Picks, and Predictions for the PGA Tour Zurich Classic

(AsiaGameHub) -   The PGA Tour heads to TPC Louisiana this week for the Zurich Classic, the season's solitary team-format tournament. For the past nine years, the Zurich Classic has featured a partner format, alternating between four-ball and foursomes. The title is currently held by Ben Griffin and Andrew Novak. Zurich Classic Odds at DraftKings Review the following DraftKings odds for the leading contenders at the Zurich Classic: Fitzpatrick / Fitzpatrick +1175 Koepka / Lowry +1550 Yellamaraju / Gerard +1750 Novak / Griffin +1850 Thorbjornsen / Vilips +1950 Rai / Theegala +2150 Keefer / Brennan +2200 Moore / Clark +2300 Penge / Wallace +2350 Li / Smith +2350 Thompson / Eckroat +2500 McCarty / Meissner +2600 Hughes / Pendrith +3000 Ventura / Reitan +3000 Springer / Smalley +3000 Bauchou / Stevens +3200 Yu / Kim +3200 Mitchell / Snedeker +3500 Finau / Greyserman +3700 Roy / McGreevy +3700 Schmid / Power +3800 Hoey / Lipsky +4000 Parry / Brown +4300 Olesen / Neergaard-Petersen +4300 Suber / Jaeger +4700 Smotherman / Putnam +4800 Van Rooyen / Bezuidenhout +4900 Ewart / Jarvis +5200 Lebioda / Code +5500 Hossler / Ryder +5700 Dou / Wu +6000 Whaley / Sigg +6000 Svensson / Nyholm +6000 Mouw / Kanaya +6100 Dumont De Chassart / Chatfield +6400 Kuchar / Higgo +6600 Horschel / Hoge +7000 Top Favorite Pick for the Zurich Classic Brooks Koepka & Shane Lowry +1550 While Brooks Koepka currently lacks entry into signature events, a victory this week would secure his spot. He is paired with Shane Lowry, who took home the trophy in 2024 alongside Rory McIlroy. This high-profile team is expected to be a major factor at TPC Louisiana. Although Matt Fitzpatrick, coming off an RBC Heritage win, and his brother Alex Fitzpatrick, a recent winner on the DP World Tour, have plenty of momentum, the Koepka/Lowry duo offers superior betting value. Top Sleeper Pick for the Zurich Classic Aaron Rai & Sahith Theegala +2150 Teaming up for the third straight year, Aaron Rai and Sahith Theegala previously secured a T-18 finish here in 2025. Theegala has already secured four top-10 finishes this season and previously took fourth place in 2022 alongside David Lipsky. While Rai has been less consistent, he stands to gain from Theegala’s high-level putting, as Theegala currently ranks 36th on tour in SG: Putting. Top Longshot Pick for the Zurich Classic Justin Lower & Chad Ramey +6800 This pair offers great value given their history of success in this team setting. Chad Ramey has logged three consecutive top-10s here, including a second-place finish with Martin Trainer in 2024, the same year Lowry and McIlroy won. Justin Lower has also earned two top-10 finishes at the Zurich Classic. Last year, Lower and Ramey joined forces to finish in eighth place. 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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Louisiana Pushes Ahead With Bill Banning Sweepstakes Casinos Despite the Governor’s Veto Last Year

(AsiaGameHub) -   Louisiana legislators are once again advancing a measure to explicitly outlaw sweepstakes casinos across the state. This action follows Governor Jeff Landry's veto of a comparable bill last session, a move he justified by pointing to existing rules that already forbid such platforms. The state's House of Representatives approved HB883 last week with a unanimous 99-0 vote. The legislation has since been passed along to the Senate’s Judiciary B Committee for further consideration. The bill's wording is the same as the one that cleared both legislative bodies last year. It defines illegal gambling as “any game, contest, or promotion that is available on the internet or accessible on a mobile phone, computer terminal, or similar access device that uses a dual-currency payment system enabling a player to exchange the currency for any prize or award, cash, or cash equivalents, or any chance to win any prize or award, cash, or cash equivalents, and simulates any form of gambling constitutes gambling by computer.” The bill notes that current law already forbids “gambling by computer and establishes penalties for violations.” However, it clarifies that the “Proposed law specifies additional actions that qualify as gambling by computer, such as offering dual-currency games that simulate any form of gambling.” Problem Already Being Solved Governor Landry maintains that the present statutes are adequate for the state to take legal action against sweepstakes casinos, which operate on dual-currency models. Explaining his veto last year, Landry remarked, “This bill is a solution looking for a problem that is already being addressed by our current framework.” “This bill seeks to criminalize specific secondary internet gambling activities that are already illegal in Louisiana,” he continued. “Our existing Louisiana Gaming Control Board possesses the regulatory power, oversight, and jurisdiction over all gaming activities and operations as outlined in the Louisiana Gaming Control Law.” He also expressed concern that “portions of the bill's text are too vague and could be construed negatively, potentially undermining or obstructing our ongoing enforcement efforts against these bad actors.“ This year's proposed legislation, nonetheless, features highly comparable language. State Ramps Up Enforcement Action Supporting Landry's assertion that Louisiana's gaming authorities already have enough power to combat illegal operators, the Gaming Control Board issued cease-and-desist letters to over 40 offshore and sweepstakes casinos soon after his veto. To date, at least 60 operators have ceased operations within the state. Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill has also officially deemed sweepstakes casinos unlawful. She declared, “Following a review of applicable Louisiana statutes and legal precedent, it is the opinion of this office that online businesses offering casino-style games – purporting to be sweepstakes or social gaming platforms – are operating in violation of Louisiana law.” While the new bill would grant the Attorney General expanded authority, Murrill is already confident in her existing power to close down these operators. She also cautioned companies that they remain “subject to Federal and State tax laws and liabilities.” The Louisiana Department of Revenue has initiated legal action against VGW and WOW Vegas, claiming the firms are responsible for $44 million in back taxes. Other States Banning Sweepstakes Louisiana is not alone, as other states are also moving to outlaw sweepstakes casinos through new laws. Both Maine and Indiana have enacted bills this year that ban multi-currency gambling. Last week, officials in Washington, D.C., also put forward a bill that would authorize iGaming while simultaneously prohibiting sweepstakes casinos. It remains uncertain whether Gov. Landry will veto the bill again if it passes the Senate. Based on his past comments, it appears probable he would once again deem the law redundant and potentially complicating. The state's legislative session concludes on June 1. 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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KSA sees ‘structural shift’ as Dutch online gambling revenue drops significantly

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) has noted a “sharp contraction in online revenues” stemming from licences under the Netherlands’ Remote Gambling Act (KOA), indicating a structural shift in market dynamics. In its Jaarverslag Kansspelautoriteit 2025, the Dutch regulator asserts that the overall gambling market stays stable at roughly €4.3bn (£3.7bn), notwithstanding increasing pressure on the online sector. Figures derived from tax receipts of licensed operators indicate an 18.5% year-on-year drop in online gambling revenues, with KOA activity decreasing to an annual baseline of about €1.2bn – equating to €600m for each half-year. This drop comes after growth seen in 2024 and mirrors what the KSA terms a “counter-reaction to curb market expansion”. The downturn was expected after the introduction of tighter regulatory controls, such as a tax hike from 30.5% to 34.2% in January 2025, which is set to rise to 37.8% in 2026.  In addition to fiscal measures, operators must enforce monthly net deposit caps of €700 for adults and €300 for players aged 18–24, markedly cutting the spending of high-value customers. The KSA is of the opinion that these measures have changed consumer behaviour within the KOA market. Although player channelisation stays high, with roughly 94% of users betting with licensed operators, revenue channelisation has diminished.  Nevertheless, data shows the legal GGR share dropped to nearly 49% in early 2025, with the authority cautioning that players in the illegal market are “much less well protected”. Dutch online gambling trade body VNLOK has contested the KSA’s interpretation, asserting that headline channelisation stats “do not reflect where the money is going,” and cautioning that high-value players are moving to unlicensed operators in growing numbers. VNLOK contends that the KSA should not make player channelisation a priority, deeming this figure a “false metric” since 50% of GGR seems to be unaccounted for by KOA licences. Despite the online slump, other verticals have balanced out the online losses. The Dutch lottery and land-based gambling (casinos and betting) sector expanded by 4.6%, aiding in stabilising the total market at €4.3bn.  Looking to the future, the KSA’s regulatory focus stays firmly on player protection. “The focus point for 2025 was better player protection,” the authority declared, observing that gambling harm goes beyond financial loss to affect mental health, relationships, and social wellbeing. As the market adapts, the KSA will uphold this mandate while waiting for the government’s next legislative stage. A new Gambling Act is projected to be drafted in late 2025, with consultation in 2026, as policymakers mull stricter than advertising bans, higher age limits, and more rigorous enforcement. Instead of an immediate repeal, the KOA regime is poised to be reshaped via incremental reforms, pointing to a more restrictive future for the Dutch gambling market 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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FanDuel, DraftKings, and Fanatics Spent $42 Million on Political Contributions in the Last Quarter

(AsiaGameHub) -   Top US sports betting operators FanDuel, DraftKings, and Fanatics significantly boosted their political expenditures last quarter, directing a combined $42 million to political action committees. Each of the sportsbooks made major contributions to the Win for America Super PAC during the quarter. While DraftKings had previously given $2 million to the PAC, its latest donations surged to $17.5 million, as shown in FEC records. FanDuel donated an even larger sum of $19.5 million, and FBG Enterprises, the parent firm of Fanatics Sportsbook, contributed a further $4 million, resulting in the $42 million total. FanDuel and DraftKings each established their own PACs last year. DraftKings created its PAC, named American Future, which has primarily concentrated on financing politicians who advocate for lower gambling taxes in Illinois. Folllow the Money From the $42 million given to Win for America, $7.3 million was channeled to American Future. The bulk of the money, $26.1 million, was routed through the American Conservative Fund, according to an analysis by Gaming America. The American Conservative Fund mainly backs Republican candidates. From the $26.1 million, the single largest allocation of $6.4 million, was sent to the American Conservative Fund Georgia. Georgia maintains restrictive gambling regulations, yet its population exceeding 11 million makes it a major potential market. A Senate committee advised the state to legalize sports betting late last year. Securing the support of legislators is a primary objective of this PAC spending. Texas Targeted for Gambling Expansion Texas is another key target for gambling operators seeking legal expansion, ranking as the second most populous state after California. Las Vegas Sands has invested heavily in lobbying for a casino in Texas, while sportsbooks are keen for the state to introduce regulated online betting. The Texas Sands PAC previously supported James Talarico's campaigns, and he had voiced approval for establishing a legal casino in the state. However, he has since distanced himself from corporate PACs and wealthy donors. He secured the Democratic primary victory by running on a platform that promised to restrict such donations. From the Win for America funds, $3.5 million was allocated to the Texas Conservative Fund, which works to advance legal gambling in Texas. A further $3 million was directed to Win for Pennsylvania, an effort focused on protecting the state's market from additional taxes and regulations. Pennsylvania currently imposes a 36% tax rate on operators, which is higher than in most other states. Some of these funds are used to support political campaigns of candidates likely to favor beneficial market policies, with the remainder spent on strategic communications and consulting groups. Will the Gamble Pay Off? This political investment is itself a gamble, as there is no certainty the contributions will translate into higher company earnings. DraftKings and FanDuel were the primary funders of a $170 million campaign behind California's Proposition 27, a measure designed to legalize sports betting. However, voters defeated the proposition, leaving the state's gambling market closed. Following the launch of their prediction market platforms, these companies are likely also focusing on politicians who would permit them to offer such markets in states like California, Texas, and Georgia. Other prediction market platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket are likewise ramping up their lobbying efforts, as are tribal groups and casino operators. To offset substantial marketing and lobbying expenses, betting firms must maximize their profits, which are derived from customer losses. This dynamic fuels allegations that gambling companies deliberately promote addictive gambling behaviors. DraftKings and FanDuel are confronting multiple lawsuits that claim the operators employ deceptive practices to increase player losses. With political expenditures on the rise, a change in the companies' marketing approaches appears improbable in the near future. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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BGC Calls on MPs to Consider the Impact on Advertising Before Criticizing Promotions

(AsiaGameHub) -   In advance of this week's Westminster debate on gambling advertising, Grainne Hurst, Chief Executive Officer of the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), has called on MPs to proceed carefully. The debate, scheduled for this Thursday, was arranged by the Backbench Business Committee and was proposed by Alex Ballinger and Dr Beccy Cooper, the MPs for Halesowen and Worthing West, respectively. Significantly, both Ballinger and Cooper are advocates for gambling reform. They have been especially outspoken on the issue of gambling advertising and have consistently engaged in discussions promoting stricter marketing controls. During a debate on gambling reforms last December, Cooper stated: “We need regulatory and legislative tools to tackle industry marketing practices, and we must make sure that children are protected from the proliferation of gambling ads, sponsorship and influencer marketing. “We have heard about the last Government’s White Paper, which does not give us the right road map to address this public health crisis…and it fails to address advertising, sponsorship and the modern marketing of gambling. “We must look to review the White Paper and set a timeline for a new gambling Act.” Following this, Ballinger contributed to a January debate on gambling harm and youth protection, emphasising that social media presents the most significant risk of exposing minors to advertising and calling for greater government oversight of marketing. “There is a real problem in the self-regulation of content marketing,” he said. “The Advertising Standards Authority has a Committee of Advertising Practice code of practice that requires gambling marketing communications to be clearly identifiable as such, but again and again, we are not seeing that followed. “The evidence is clear. The public is tired of gambling adverts—that much is obvious. I urge the Government to heed the report of the all-party parliamentary group on gambling reform, which will include proposals on limiting the most harmful forms of advertising, particularly as it affects young people.” However, as in any political debate, there are opposing views. In an opinion piece for PoliticsHome, Hurst advocated for a balanced strategy that acknowledges the responsibilities of the licensed sector and the major threat it confronts in the UK – the black market. To support her argument, the BGC CEO referenced research from the global marketing intelligence agency WARC, which revealed alarming findings about the growing presence of illegal operators. Marketing spending by legal operators is forecast to fall by 9.2% in 2026 to £1.1bn. Conversely, the firm anticipates advertising expenditure from unregulated providers will increase by 32% over the next two years – exceeding the £1bn threshold by 2028. Since many licensed UK operators are currently reducing their gambling expenditure due to the Remote Gaming Duty tax rising from 21% to 40%, it can be inferred that the share of licensed advertising will continue to decline, while the illegal market's share grows. This aligns with WARC's conclusion, which indicates regulated operators are projected to represent less than half of all advertising spend by October 2028. “The direction of travel is clear: regulated firms are scaling back their advertising, while the harmful black market grows rapidly. That should give policymakers pause,” Hurst added. Faced with this potential future, the UK government has the sensitive job of continually balancing player protection with the risks of overregulation, a process that continues with the upcoming advertising debate on Thursday. 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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ReferOn launches crypto payment solution to streamline iGaming affiliate payouts

(AsiaGameHub) -   Affiliate management platform ReferOn continues to enhance its integration of advanced technologies within the iGaming affiliate sector. Throughout the past year, the company has made extensive use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), blockchain, and tokenisation technology. Most recently, ReferOn has introduced a new built-in crypto finance layer to facilitate crypto payments through its licensed partners’ payment gateways. The firm is confident that its new solution can reduce friction in crypto payments by scaling payout volumes without increasing headcount, and by managing manual work to expedite payment cycles. “To be honest, manual crypto payments are a disaster waiting to happen,” stated Vlad Bondarenko, Head of Product at ReferOn. “When teams fear entering the wrong address, making a double payment, or organising ever-growing spreadsheets, the team environment becomes conservative and reactive.” The announcement of ReferOn’s crypto finance layer arrives a few months after the firm unveiled its latest tokenisation project in December 2025. The company has also been experimenting heavily with AI, and last month it announced the launch of a new analysis product, Evolution Cohort. Regarding the latest initiative, the crypto finance layer is part of a broader financial control centre – a dedicated finance page on the Refer platform accessible to all partner programmes. The platform aims to provide clarity on programme funding and top-ups, a transaction journal, and an automated payout flow. “Our new crypto finance layer eliminates this confusion by providing managers with a comprehensive, centralised hub that automates manual tasks via integrated payment partners,” Bondarenko added. “This feature isn’t just about offering affiliates a fancy new payment method or automating for the sake of it; it’s about freeing you up to run a revamped financial operation.” 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 Zealand lawsuit expands to include betting and casino firms bet365 and Super Group as country prepares for iGaming market overhaul

(AsiaGameHub) -   Reports from multiple media sources indicate that a legal case in New Zealand targeting SkyCity has now broadened its scope to name bet365 and Super Group. This expansion poses a significant challenge to the nation's recently established iGaming regulations. Business Desk, a New Zealand business publication, reports that the legal action includes bet365’s co-founder and co-CEO, Denise Coates, as well as Super Group’s CEO, Neal Menashe, as defendants alongside the companies. An unidentified plaintiff initiated the legal filing, alleging that bet365, Super Group, and SkyCity are offering unauthorized online gaming services within New Zealand. The case originally began targeting SkyCity the previous month. Headquartered in Auckland, SkyCity Entertainment Group manages five casino venues in both Australia and New Zealand. Additionally, it holds an international interest known as SkyCity Online, a digital gaming platform run by the Maltese company Silvereye Entertainment, which falls under the Gaming Innovation Group (GiG) umbrella. The litigation initiated in March focuses on this digital venture and has since been widened to implicate bet365 and Super Group. Super Group is listed on the NYSE and operates the Betway sportsbook and Spin online casino. In a statement released at the beginning of March, SkyCity characterized the lawsuit as an attempt to challenge the legality of the online gaming activities conducted by Silvereye for a SkyCity subsidiary located abroad. New Zealand's regulatory shift This legal action unfolds as New Zealand undertakes a comprehensive reform of its gambling legislation. The market in New Zealand is still heavily regulated, especially when contrasted with Oceania's biggest player, Australia. Australia hosts major operators such as bet365, Entain’s Ladbrokes and Neds, Flutter Entertainment‘s Sportsbet, the leading firm Tabcorp, Betfair (run by Crown Resorts), PointsBet, and emerging challengers like betr. Conversely, in New Zealand, exclusive rights to offer both physical and online wagering belong to the state-run TAB NZ. Entain has held this role since May 2023 under a 25-year agreement, a position that received additional legal safeguards through June 2025 modifications to the Racing Industry Act 2020. This legislation effectively prohibits offshore online betting firms from operating within New Zealand. Consequently, some entities, including Betfair Australia and NZ—operated in Oceania by Crown Resorts rather than Flutter as in Europe—promptly withdrew from the market. Meanwhile, online casinos continue to operate outside the law. While the Gambling Act 2003 permits certain gambling activities, there is currently no regulatory structure for online casinos. However, changes are forthcoming, with a regulated market featuring 15 licenses scheduled to open on July 1, 2027. Reports suggest that both bet365 and Super Group’s Betway are keen on obtaining licenses in this upcoming market. However, the anonymous plaintiffs in the broadened lawsuit appear to object to any current market involvement by these two companies. 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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NHL Playoffs: Flyers-Penguins Odds, Picks, Predictions for Monday, April 20

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Philadelphia Flyers face the Pittsburgh Penguins this evening for Game 2 of their first-round playoff matchup. The puck is scheduled to drop at 7 p.m. at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, with the game broadcast live on ESPN. DraftKings lists the Penguins as -155 favorites at home, with a total set at 6.5. Currently, 66% of the moneyline handle and 73% of the total tickets are backing Pittsburgh. Philadelphia holds a 1-0 series lead following their 3-2 victory in Saturday's series opener. Best Bet: Flyers vs. Penguins Team Total Pittsburgh OVER 3.5 Goals (+105) During Game 1, Philadelphia employed the gritty road style characteristic of head coach Rick Tocchet during his playing days with the Flyers. Can they replicate that performance tonight and push the Penguins into a 0-2 deficit before the series shifts to Philadelphia? The Penguins ranked third in the NHL for scoring during the regular season, averaging 3.54 goals per contest. We anticipate a strong response tonight from Sidney Crosby and his teammates in Game 2. In their regular-season meetings, the Penguins finished 2-0-2 against the Flyers. Pittsburgh secured convincing 5-1 and 6-3 wins, while Philadelphia’s victories came via shootouts. This series appears destined to be a long, physical battle. Back the Penguins to rebound effectively tonight and level the series. Best Player Props for Pittsburgh Penguins Sidney Crosby Anytime Goal Scorer (+165) Historically, Crosby has dominated against Philadelphia. He has recorded more goals (60) versus the Flyers than against any other franchise, by a significant margin. For comparison, he has 44 goals against the Islanders. After being kept off the scoresheet in the first game, look for “Sid the Kid” (now 38!) to find the back of the net this evening. Evgeni Malkin OVER 2.5 Shots (+135) Evgeni Malkin led the Penguins with a goal and an assist in the opener, though he was limited to just one shot on goal. Note that Malkin has only cleared the 2.5-shot mark once in his previous six outings. We are banking on the "due factor" here, as we expect Pittsburgh to fire plenty of pucks on net to even the series tonight. Best Player Props for Philadelphia Flyers Dan Vladar UNDER 22.5 Saves (-125) Dan Vladar made his postseason debut in the series opener, recording 15 saves. While he is likely to face more pressure in Game 2, we do not anticipate him reaching 23 saves. This projection aligns with our primary wager on the Penguins to exceed 3.5 total goals. Trevor Zegras OVER 1.5 Shots on Goal (-120) Trevor Zegras achieved career highs in goals (26) and points (67) this season, but his shot volume is what catches our attention tonight. He cleared this mark with two shots in the playoff opener and recorded four shots against Carolina in the final game of the regular season. We are sticking with the player in form. 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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NHL Playoffs: Game 2 Betting Preview – Senators vs. Hurricanes on April 20

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Carolina Hurricanes are hosting the Ottawa Senators tonight for Game 2 of their opening-round playoff series. The puck is scheduled to drop at 7:30 p.m. ET at the Lenovo Center, with live coverage on ESPN2. Carolina secured a 2-0 shutout victory on Saturday, giving them a 1-0 series lead. For tonight's matchup, DraftKings has set the Hurricanes as -155 home favorites with a total of 5.5. The betting market shows 81% of the moneyline handle and 83% of tickets are favoring Carolina. Best Bet: Senators vs. Hurricanes (UNDER 5.5) In Game 1, the Hurricanes' goals were scored by Logan Stankoven and Taylor Hall. They also received a strong performance from veteran goaltender Freddie Andersen, who made 22 saves to record his sixth career playoff shutout. While goaltending was a question mark for Carolina heading into the playoffs, Andersen has overcome his regular-season struggles. A FIGHT TO START THE PLAYOFFSBrady Tkachuk and Jordan Staal immediately dropped the gloves pic.twitter.com/LBokHjzq6B— ESPN (@espn) April 18, 2026 Game 1 began with a fight between team captains Brady Tkachuk and Jordan Staal, and this physical intensity is expected to persist throughout the series. Carolina continues to impede opponents by clogging up the neutral zone. Ottawa's goalie Linus Ullmark played well in Game 1, stopping 27 of 29 shots. If both goaltenders maintain their performance levels tonight, another UNDER outcome is likely. Carolina has seen the UNDER hit in their last four games. Ottawa has gone 4-1 to the UNDER in their past five games. Best Player Prop Bets for Carolina Hurricanes Andrei Svechnikov OVER 2.5 Shots on Goal (+100) Andrei Svechnikov started the playoffs strong with six shots on goal in the opening game. His aggressive approach is anticipated to continue in Game 2 tonight. Jordan Staal OVER 0.5 Points (+165) Jordan Staal's integration into Carolina's power play has provided a boost when they have the man advantage. Staal, still effective at 37, scored four power-play goals during the regular season. Staal is relied upon for his faceoff prowess. Requiring only a goal or an assist to meet this prop, Staal has a good chance of succeeding tonight. Best Player Prop Bets for Ottawa Senators Linus Ullmark OVER 25.5 Saves (-115) There is a strong connection between this prop bet and our prediction for the UNDER tonight. Carolina tends to shoot the puck frequently. The Hurricanes recorded 2,637 shots on goal during the regular season, ranking second in the NHL behind only Colorado (2,766). The high volume of shots is expected to continue, giving Ullmark a strong opportunity to exceed this save total for the second consecutive game. Tim Stutzle Anytime Goal Scorer (+230) Tim Stutzle led Ottawa with 34 goals and 83 points during the regular season. Stutzle needs to find his scoring touch after the Senators were shut out in the opener. This was an unusual occurrence, as Ottawa was only shut out once during the regular season, a 1-0 loss to the Kings on November 15. 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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Belarusian Businessman Allegedly Squandered Business Loan Funds on Online Casino, Per Police Report

(AsiaGameHub) -   Authorities in Mogilev, Belarus, are intensifying their efforts to combat gambling-related offenses following allegations that a local businessman gambled away a private loan on an online platform. According to the media outlet Mogilev News, law enforcement has initiated a criminal investigation into the 42-year-old business owner. Officials stated that the entrepreneur approached a 53-year-old associate to request financial assistance. He reportedly claimed the funds would be used for business expansion and guaranteed a "timely repayment." The associate, trusting the businessman, provided 28,000 Belarusian rubles (approximately $10,000). However, once the money was received, the entrepreneur allegedly ceased all contact. Fraud Charges for Belarusian Businessman Police investigations later indicated that the owner "had no plans to return the funds" and had instead "squandered the entire amount at an online casino." The suspect is expected to be charged with fraud-related crimes by investigators. This incident follows a recent case where the Mogilev branch of the Ministry of Internal Affairs accused a corporate accountant of stealing from her employer to fund online gambling habits. The 42-year-old defendant served as the head accountant for a private firm located in Mogilev. A statue in central Mogilev, Belarus. (Image: Alexander Fastovets) Campaign Against Gambling Crimes Ministry representatives informed the news site Onliner that the accountant possessed access to the organization's electronic financial systems. Investigators reportedly uncovered evidence of numerous transfers from the company's accounts to her personal ones, frequently disguised as "bonus payments." Because she was in charge of financial reporting, she was allegedly able to "submit fraudulent data" and "conceal the budget gaps," officials noted. The accountant is accused of embezzling a total of 185,000 Belarusian rubles, exceeding $65,000. Law enforcement stated that she lost the full amount through unsuccessful online casino wagers. The ministry intends to prosecute her for "large-scale embezzlement through abuse of office." If found guilty, she could be sentenced to as many as 12 years in prison. Additionally, in Minsk, a self-proclaimed cryptocurrency investment expert was reported to have stolen and spent thousands of dollars of client money at physical casinos during the previous year. 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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Former Rank Group CEO John O’Reilly joins Tote Group board three months after retirement

(AsiaGameHub) -   The UK Tote Group has recruited a prominent figure in the British gambling industry, naming former Rank Group CEO John O’Reilly as a Non-Executive Director. O’Reilly, who is set to join the 98-year-old organization at the start of next month, marks his second major career move of 2026, having been appointed Chair of the horse racing governing body Weatherbys this past March. He brings more than 35 years of expertise in the gaming, betting, and horseracing sectors, having only stepped down as CEO of Rank Group at the end of January. At the time of his retirement, he remarked to iGaming Expert: “To be honest, I never considered stopping. I have always felt I held the best job in the world, across every role I have undertaken. “I turn 66 in May and I still feel like I’m in my twenties. I continue to work 70 hours a week and have plenty of energy left, but I recognize that now is the right time to move on.” That energy is now being directed toward the Tote Group, which recently announced a partnership with the rugby league club Wigan Warriors, despite a general trend of reduced marketing expenditure among UK operators. O’Reilly’s extensive industry background includes nearly two decades as Executive Director of Ladbrokes (1992–2011), Managing Director of Gala Coral Group (2011–2015), and Non-Executive Director roles at TelecityGroup (2007–2016) and William Hill (2017–2018). Regarding his new appointment, he stated: “Like many who are deeply involved in horseracing and gambling, I have maintained numerous connections with, and hold fond memories of, the Tote over the years. “While the Tote boasts a century of history, I am convinced it has a vital role to play in the future of horseracing, both within the UK and Ireland and on an international scale. “The Tote has a compelling narrative of growth and innovation in recent years, and through further improvements to its pool products and the expansion of global partnerships, I believe the company’s best days are ahead. “I am thrilled to have the chance to join the UK Tote Group board and contribute to the company’s future success.” O’Reilly latest addition to Tote board O’Reilly is the newest appointee to the Tote Group’s board, which has seen several leadership changes in recent weeks. Just over a week ago, Chief Operating Officer Dave Hammond departed the company after three years with the Greater Manchester-based firm, including eight months in his final role. Additionally, former KPMG executive Andrew Weir was recently named a Non-Executive Director. O’Reilly joins the Tote Group during a period of sustained pressure on the horse racing industry, which serves as the Tote’s core business. The sport’s relationship with the gambling sector was tested during debates surrounding tax hikes last year, and it remains dependent on media rights, sponsorship, and the racing betting levy for financial stability. However, the sport has avoided the most severe tax increases, having been exempted from this year’s rise in Remote Gaming Duty (RGD) and the upcoming increase in General Betting Duty (GBD). John Williamson, Chairman of the UK Tote Group, commented: “We are pleased to welcome John to the UK Tote Group board. “As one of the most respected and experienced leaders in the betting sector, John will offer valuable support to the Tote team, particularly regarding customer experience and product development. “We are delighted to have John join the team, alongside Andrew Weir, who joined the UK Tote Group board earlier this month.” 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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Douyin Launches Crackdown on Online Gambling Content

(AsiaGameHub) -   Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok, has initiated a comprehensive campaign to eliminate illicit gambling content from its video-sharing service. According to a report by Chinese media Jiemian News, the company states it is removing more than 10,000 accounts per day as part of this cleanup effort. Douyin reports it has identified criminal organizations attempting to evade its security reviews and automated systems designed to flag gambling-related material. It is reported that many dishonest creators avoid detection by sharing "coded messages" that slip past the platform's surveillance. However, Douyin noted that some of these messages contain links directing users to third-party gambling websites. The platform confirms it has begun enforcing measures against accounts that violate its policies. To date this year, Douyin says it has sanctioned 55,000 live-streaming accounts for permitting gambling promoters to disseminate these "coded messages." It has also permanently suspended live-streaming capabilities for approximately 14,000 accounts. Douyin: Gambling Crackdown The company stated it collaborates with police and law enforcement agencies to help bring suspected online gambling promoters to justice. Since the previous year, Douyin says its tips to authorities have led to 148 arrests. Law enforcement has also broken up six criminal gangs engaged in gambling activities based on information provided by Douyin. Douyin emphasized it "strictly forbids users from utilizing its platform services to arrange gambling, solicit participants, or conduct any other unlawful or criminal acts." The platform added it will persist in banning and reporting accounts that post instructional videos on "gambling strategies, cheating methods, or tools for defrauding [online casino platforms]." ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, introduced Douyin in 2016. Both apps feature nearly identical designs, but their systems are separate, meaning content posted on one does not appear on the other. Most Users are Young Urbanites Douyin was created specifically for the Mainland China market and adheres to local laws. The service also operates as an e-commerce hub, enabling users to purchase items directly via videos or live streams through integrated Douyin Stores. The platform boasts about 766 million monthly active users, with a similar figure for daily active users. Most of its user base is under the age of 35 and resides in large cities. In a related development earlier this month, Hong Kong police conducted a raid on an illicit arcade that allegedly offered cash rewards to top-scoring players. Authorities detained the arcade's owner along with a number of alleged customers. 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.