iGame

Ranked: Top Partnerships between Athletes and Gambling Companies

(AsiaGameHub) -   Kalshi’s latest sponsorship agreement with UFC champion Nate Diaz prompted us to examine prominent athletes who have publicly supported gambling companies. Our selection features some of the most renowned figures in professional sports, both current and retired, who have achieved the highest level of success in their careers. Important note: This list is limited to athletes based in North America. LeBron James & DraftKings Sportsbook Partnership began: January 2024 LeBron James, a four-time NBA champion and the all-time leading scorer in league history with 43,440 points, entered into a multi-year contract with DraftKings. Under this arrangement, James focused exclusively on weekly football predictions, with any NBA-related content strictly prohibited. Television and online advertisements featuring James alongside comedian Kevin Hart became increasingly common. In our view, this collaboration produced their most entertaining commercial spot yet. DraftKings has effectively leveraged “The King” as a brand ambassador, making this partnership our top choice. Rob Gronkowski & FanDuel Partnership began: January 2022 Few moments are more memorable than Rob Gronkowski’s “Kick of Destiny” marketing campaigns during Super Bowl 2023 and 2024—though he missed both attempts! This innovative promotion allowed FanDuel users to vote “Yes” or “No” on whether Gronkowski would successfully make the kick, with $10 million in Bonus Bets at stake. Those who voted “No” shared in that prize pool. More recently, FanDuel Casino launched a slot game inspired by Gronkowski titled All Gronk, All Gold, ahead of Super Bowl LVII in February. Despite his difficulties with field goals, Gronkowski has significantly boosted FanDuel’s brand visibility as a high-profile endorser. Giannis Antetokounmpo & Kalshi Partnership began: February 2026 This deal sparked controversy amid ongoing NBA betting scandals. NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo acquired an ownership stake in Kalshi through his company, Ante Inc. Antetokounmpo will appear in commercials and at live events promoting Kalshi. Under NBA rules, players may hold passive stakes of less than 1% in gambling-related businesses. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver clarified why the transaction complied with regulations. “We have a rule—agreed upon collectively with the Players Association—that permits players to make what I’d call de minimis investments in sports betting companies, and we’re applying the same standard to prediction markets,” Silver explained. He continued, “In Giannis’s case, as far as I understand, the investment is much smaller than 1%, so it doesn’t violate the rules.” Wayne Gretzky & BetMGM Partnership began: June 2021 Like LeBron James, Wayne Gretzky won four Stanley Cups and holds the record for most career points (2,857) in NHL history. Similar to Rob Gronkowski, Gretzky also has a custom slot game at BetMGM. Gretzky has starred in numerous commercials for “The King of Sportsbooks,” including a recent ad featuring current Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid. Notably, Gretzky also appeared in BetMGM’s Super Bowl advertisement alongside Tom Brady and actor Vince Vaughn two years ago. Although we considered including Tom Brady, he no longer has a promotional deal with BetMGM following his role as a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders. The NFL prohibits its personnel from endorsing any form of gambling, including sports betting. In a January study, researchers from Towson University and Notre Dame of Maryland University analyzed YouTube comments on gambling advertisements. While comedian Jamie Foxx drew the most criticism for BetMGM, Wayne Gretzky received four negative comments for every positive one. Commenters argued that it was “a bad look for someone who used to represent integrity in sports” to promote gambling on athletic competition. Despite this backlash, the long-standing relationship between BetMGM and “The Great One” continues to endure. 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.

iGame

Gambling personalities featured in the 2026 Sunday Times Rich List

(AsiaGameHub) -   A significant number of prominent figures from the gambling industry have once again been featured in The Times’ annual Sunday Times Rich List. The 2026 edition, topped this year by Sanjay and Dheeraj Hinduja and family of the Hinduja Group with an estimated net worth of £38bn, reveals that the UK’s 350 richest individuals and families have a combined wealth of £784bn—a 1.4% increase from 2025—equivalent to one-quarter of the UK’s GDP. A familiar name tops betting’s Rich List… Once again, the highest-ranked figure from the gambling sector was the Coates family. Synonymous with Stoke-on-Trent’s bet365, the Coates family—comprising company co-founder Peter and his two children and joint-chief executives Denise and John—dropped one place to 17th in the rankings, with a net worth of £9.73bn. Despite falling one position in the list, the family, which also maintains close ties with Stoke City FC, increased its fortune by £283m over the past year. The bet365 business is reported to be the largest private-sector employer in Stoke-on-Trent, employing more than 5,500 people locally, and has recently expanded into new markets including France and Michigan. Following the Coates on the gambling side of the list was Mark Scheinberg—the Israeli-Canadian entrepreneur who co-founded PokerStars, now owned by Flutter Entertainment. Scheinberg ranked 37th overall, up one place from 2025, but his wealth decreased by £192m, leaving him with a fortune of £4.89bn. Done it again – Betfred brothers on Sunday Times Rich List Not far behind Scheinberg were the billionaire brothers Fred and Peter Done, owners of Betfred. Like the Coates, the Done brothers run a privately-owned family gambling business rooted in the UK—Betfred remains headquartered in Warrington, near their home in Salford. Remarkably, the Done brothers grew their fortune by nearly £700m over the last 12 months, climbing 11 places to 46th on the list with an estimated wealth of £3.61bn. Dairy farmer Lord Grantchester, grandson of the late Sir John Moores, fell eight places to 139th, with his fortune remaining unchanged at £1.2bn. At 75 years old and a former director of Everton FC, Lord Grantchester is part of the family that founded Littlewoods and its football pools business. Although the pools business, which has declined significantly in the 21st century alongside Littlewoods’ retail empire, continues today under the name ‘The Pools’. Business leaders Lord Peter and Lady Fiona Cruddas, founders of CMC Markets, surged 42 places to 142nd, increasing their net worth by £290m to reach £1.16bn. The platform offers spread betting and has secured front-of-shirt sponsorship deals with both Everton FC and Fulham FC, ahead of the upcoming voluntary ban on gambling branding on shirts. Barry and Eddie Hearn, well-known figures in boxing, darts, and snooker, returned to the Sunday Times Rich List at 154th position with a fortune of £1.04bn. Their company, Matchroom, has attracted substantial commercial attention from betting firms. However, the firm has warned that any legislative changes could affect revenues and is therefore seeking to diversify away from the sector. Current Matchroom partnerships with gambling companies include Paddy Power’s sponsorship of the PDC World Championship and Midnite’s involvement with the World Snooker Tour. Horse racing links in the Sunday Times Rich List 2026 Michael Tabor and his family, owners of BetVictor, rose eight places to 191st despite no change in their net worth. The 84-year-old businessman and his family have a total wealth of £800m. Tabor is one of only four racehorse owners to have won both the Epsom Derby and the Kentucky Derby. Other notable horse racing-connected names on the 2026 Sunday Times Rich List include: Georg and Emily von Opel: (74th – worth £2.08bn) heirs to car manufacturer Opel AG; Georg behind the thoroughbred racing and breeding operation Westerberg Patricia Thompson and family: (175th – worth £902m) family behind food manufacturer Hillsdown Holdings; owner of the renowned UK racing Cheveley Park Stud Tony Bloom: (199th – worth £779m) owner and breeder; chairman of Brighton and Hove Albion; founder of Premierbet Robert and William Barnett and family: (218th – worth £715m) owners of Belfast-based W&R Barnett; former elite racehorse owners and breeders Andy Bell: (249th – worth £553m) co-founder of Manchester-headquartered online investment platform AJ Bell; racehorse owner Elsewhere on the list, Ruth Parasol and her family climbed five places to 198th, with a net worth of £780m. Parasol established PartyGaming in 1997, which listed on the London Stock Exchange in 2005 at a then-record valuation of $8.46bn. The business later merged with bwin in 2011 to form bwin.party Digital Entertainment, subsequently acquired by GVC Holdings in 2016. As of 2026, the brand is owned by FTSE 100 company Entain plc, which also operates the Ladbrokes and Coral brands. Will Rosseff, a director at bet365, is the final name from the gambling industry on this year’s Sunday Times Rich List, with his net worth rising by £12m to £591m, placing him 239th. 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.

iGame

Texas Casino to Open Near Houston This Summer Before First Resort

(AsiaGameHub) -   A temporary casino will open approximately 80 miles north of Houston, Texas, this summer as part of the development for the state’s inaugural full-scale casino resort. The Alabama-Coushatta Tribe has received federal authorization to construct an Indian gaming facility on off-reservation property located in Leggett, Polk County. Construction on the site is set to begin next month, with a provisional venue scheduled to commence operations later this summer. Casino to Offer a Restricted Selection of Games However, the new casino will not provide a comprehensive range of gaming options due to Texas’s stringent gambling regulations. In June 2023, courts ruled that Texas tribes are permitted to operate Class II games on tribal lands without requiring state approval. Class II gaming excludes roulette, blackjack, and other traditional house-banked casino games. It encompasses only player-vs-player contests, including bingo, poker, and other “non-banked” card games. Slot machines are allowed, but exclusively those where payouts come from wagers placed by other players. Currently, there are three operational tribal casinos in Texas: the Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino in Eagle Pass, the Speaking Rock Casino in El Paso, and the Naskila Casino in Livingston, which is managed by the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe. New Facility Will Replace Naskila Casino The existing Naskila Casino houses 835 electronic bingo machines, features two dining venues, and operates around the clock. The tribe reports that the casino contributes $212 million annually to the local economy and employs 409 individuals with an average annual wage of $50,000. Once the new development becomes fully operational, the current Naskila Casino in Livingston will cease operations. The temporary facility will initially offer 300 electronic gaming machines, though the permanent resort is expected to include significantly more. Details about the complete project remain undisclosed, but it is anticipated to include a hotel, multiple restaurants, an entertainment complex, and an expanded gaming floor. Las Vegas Sands Aims to Launch First Commercial Casino in Texas The opening of the state’s first resort-style casino could serve as a catalyst for introducing commercial gaming venues in Texas. Las Vegas Sands has identified North Texas as its preferred location for launching the company’s initial casino within the state. Currently, Las Vegas Sands does not operate any active casinos in the United States. Nevertheless, the company has invested substantial resources into lobbying efforts to secure regulatory approval for a Texas-based development. Its two primary political action committees—the Texas Sands PAC and the Texas Defense PAC—have collectively donated over $15 million to political candidates throughout the state. Andy Abboud, Senior Vice President at Las Vegas Sands, stated that the company’s advocacy efforts will continue until approval is granted. When questioned about the timeline, he responded, “Forever. We’re not going anywhere. We are fully committed to this initiative. It represents a tremendous opportunity, and the people of Texas clearly want it. Our presence here is long-term and unwavering.” Although legislative approval has yet to be secured, Las Vegas Sands has already begun recruiting personnel in Dallas. The company currently lists 10 open positions in Texas, including roles such as application architects, data engineers, and a senior product manager responsible for developing casino management software “from the ground up.” With the planned resort near Houston commencing operations, Las Vegas Sands anticipates that local residents may become increasingly receptive to the concept of a casino resort in Dallas. 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.

iGame

Oklahoma Lawmakers Override Governor’s Veto, Banning Sweepstakes Casinos

(AsiaGameHub) -   A prohibition on sweepstakes casinos is set to become law in Oklahoma starting November 1, following the legislature's override of Governor Kevin Stitt's veto. Stitt rejected SB1589 earlier this week, but the Senate voted 34-10 to overturn the Governor's decision. The House then did the same with a 68-19 vote, resulting in the bill being officially filed. Dual-Currency Gambling to Be Prohibited Once effective in November, the law will forbid operators from employing dual-currency systems to provide online casino games. The legislation describes online casino games as “any gambling game accessible via the internet or a device like a computer, phone, or tablet that, upon risking any representative of value, simulates any gambling game.” It further defines “representative of value” as “any and all currency within a dual-currency payment system that can be exchanged for a prize, cash, or a chance to win such items.” Currently, most major sweepstakes casinos still operate in Oklahoma. Continuing after November could result in Class C2 felony charges, carrying fines from $500 to $2,000 and possible jail time. Governor Objects to Vague Definitions Gov. Stitt issued a statement detailing his reasons for vetoing the bill. “Oklahoma’s gaming laws need to be clear, targeted, and fair. Senate Bill 1589 fails to meet that standard,” the Governor wrote. “This bill is so broad that it criminalizes everyday apps people use for fun. It also unnecessarily establishes a new felony and broadens criminal liability to businesses and service providers,” Stitt added. “Such a vague and overreaching method creates uncertainty for legitimate businesses and hinders innovation and investment. Oklahoma can safeguard consumers without imposing criminal penalties that go further than necessary.” Will Louisiana Governor Also Veto Approved Ban? Louisiana legislators also forwarded a bill to the Governor on Thursday aiming to ban dual-currency gambling platforms. HB883 contains wording similar to Oklahoma's bill. It expands the definition of illegal gambling to include: “Any internet or device-accessible game using a dual-currency system where the currency can be exchanged for prizes or cash, simulating gambling, constitutes gambling by computer.” Gov. Jeff Landry vetoed a comparable bill last year, noting the existing enforcement tools against illegal gambling. The state then issued cease-and-desist orders to 40 offshore and sweepstakes operators. Many have obeyed, with at least 57 platforms now blocking Louisiana users. Consequently, Gov. Landry might veto this bill as well. Echoing Gov. Stitt's concerns, Gov. Landry stated last year that “some of the language in this bill is overly broad and could be interpreted negatively, potentially harming our ongoing enforcement efforts against these bad actors.” If he approves the ban, Louisiana would be the fifth state this year to outlaw sweepstakes casinos. Besides Oklahoma, Tennessee, Indiana, and Maine have all enacted bans on these platforms. 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.

iGame

A Chinese gambler faces jail time after reporting fellow players for cheating during illegal mahjong game

(AsiaGameHub) -   A Chinese man who attempted to report fellow gamblers to the police for cheating during an illegal gaming session has ended up in prison. The man, surnamed Wu, was betting on rounds of tui bing zi—a popular tile-based gambling game using mahjong tiles—at an undisclosed location in Anshan City, Liaoning Province. Tui bing zi requires participants to try to outscore a dealer, similar to the card game blackjack. However, during his illegal gambling session with eight other individuals, Wu grew suspicious that his fellow players were conspiring to cheat at the game and ensure he kept losing, according to reports from the Chinese media outlet GWM. Chinese gamblers often use mahjong tiles to play tui bing zi. (Image: Jericka Cruz) Chinese Gamblers: Cheating Row Lands All Parties in Prison The Haicheng Public Security Bureau of Liaoning Province said a “farcical situation” unfolded when Wu called a local police station to complain that he had lost 2,300 yuan ($340) during a “rigged” tui bing zi tournament. He requested the police to “uphold justice” on his behalf. Police officers were dispatched to the scene but discovered that the gambling session had already concluded. Nonetheless, Wu and two others remained at the location as the dispute continued. Officers arrested all three individuals. During police questioning, the trio reportedly provided full confessions. Downtown Anshan, in China’s Liaoning Province. (Image: Philarcher0615 [CC BY-SA 3.0]) Police later apprehended a man surnamed Wang, whom they accused of using “custom-made glasses” to cheat during the tournament. The bureau sentenced Wang to 15 days in jail. However, it also detained Wu and the remaining seven individuals for 10 days for engaging in illegal gambling. The bureau imposed fines totaling 1,000 yuan (approximately $150) on all but one of the gamblers. One man, surnamed Zhou, was fined $300 after police identified him as the organizer of the tournament. Crime Wave Gathers Intensity Law enforcement agencies across China are currently intensifying their efforts against a rising wave of illegal gambling. Detectives state that gamblers are now gathering in abandoned buildings and remote rural areas. Gangs have become highly organized, utilizing encrypted chat applications to coordinate secret betting sessions and employing CCTV equipment to monitor for law enforcement. Betting ring organizers believe this strategy will help them evade detection. Nevertheless, officers assert they are leveraging an extensive network of informants and drones to identify and arrest illegal gamblers. All forms of gambling are prohibited in China, except for two state-run national lotteries. The government categorizes both lotteries as authorized forms of fundraising by the state. 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.

iGame

Indonesian Authorities Detain 321 Foreigners in Crackdown on Online Gambling Operation

(AsiaGameHub) -   A prominent politician has commended the Indonesian police following their dismantling of a major online gambling network and the arrest of 321 foreign nationals. According to the official website of the Gerindra Party, police conducted raids on a commercial property located in Jakarta’s Chinatown district. Indonesian National Police (Polri) authorities stated that the premises functioned as a central hub for the network. Its operators reportedly managed approximately 70 online casino platforms, primarily targeting clients outside Indonesia. Indonesia is currently intensifying its crackdown on online casinos, promoters, and participants involved in gambling activities. Courts in the country are empowered to impose prison sentences of up to 10 years on those found operating illegal gambling sites. Gerindra lawmaker Bob Hasan, who serves as a member of one of the largest policy-making commissions within the Indonesian House of Representatives, publicly praised Polri’s efforts. He emphasized that the operation demonstrated the government’s firm commitment to dismantling criminal networks and curbing the surge in illegal online gambling. “[The commission] extends its deepest appreciation to our law enforcement officers,” Hasan remarked. “The police acted swiftly and decisively against international online gambling operators.” An exclusive report by Kompas TV on the recent arrests in Jakarta. Indonesian Police Arrest 321: Key Details Polri confirmed that among those arrested were 228 Vietnamese citizens, along with 57 Chinese nationals. The remaining individuals held citizenship from Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Malaysia, as verified by Wira Satya Triputra, head of general crime investigations at Polri. Hasan highlighted the raid as evidence that organized foreign criminal syndicates are actively operating in Indonesia through online gambling networks. “This incident confirms that the online gambling network involves external actors,” the lawmaker asserted. “It must be eradicated at its source. We cannot afford to limit our response to a single case only.” He cautioned that the arrested individuals might represent merely the surface of a much larger operation. Hasan called for police to conduct comprehensive searches across “various regions” to identify additional members of the network. Police have reaffirmed that their investigation remains ongoing and may be expanded further as new leads emerge. “Online gambling has become a deeply troubling phenomenon,” Hasan concluded. “The government must take resolute action to dismantle all such networks and safeguard the public interest.” A Highly Structured Criminal Organization Polri officials revealed that they brought down the network before it could fully develop. According to the police chief, the operation had only been active for about two months prior to the raids. Wira described the organization as highly sophisticated. He noted that the multinational workforce was strategically assigned to various functional roles within the enterprise. Some employees handled customer service duties, while others specialized in marketing or financial operations. Earlier this month, Polri issued a warning about an anticipated “explosion” in illegal sports betting activity. Officials anticipate a wave of fraudulent sports betting websites targeting soccer enthusiasts ahead of this summer’s FIFA World Cup. CasinoBeats has observed recent evidence showing numerous illegal betting platforms continuing to promote their services to Indonesian users via widely used internet channels. 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.

iGame

Polymarket Circumvents Italy’s Gambling Ban Through Serie A and Lazio Sponsorship Agreements

(AsiaGameHub) -   Despite being blacklisted in Italy and a ban on gambling sponsorships in sports, Polymarket has announced partnerships with Serie A and Italian soccer club Lazio. On Thursday, Polymarket revealed that it had signed an agreement to become “the official and exclusive prediction market partner of Serie A in the United States.” Under the terms of the deal, Polymarket will receive brand integrations across the soccer league’s U.S. media and digital platforms. “The next phase of sports engagement won’t be defined by more content, but by more participation,” said Shayne Coplan, Founder & CEO of Polymarket. “Prediction markets give fans a way to actively interpret the game in real time, and partnering with Serie A brings that model to one of the world’s most followed leagues at a moment when American interest in the sport is at an all-time high.” This partnership in Italy follows Polymarket’s recent collaboration with Spain’s soccer league, La Liga. It marks its first deal with a European soccer league, though the company also maintains agreements with Major League Soccer (MLS) and several other sporting organizations, including MLB, NHL, and UFC. Polymarket Will Feature on Lazio Shirts Next Season In addition to its arrangement with Serie A, one of the league’s prominent clubs, Lazio, confirmed that Polymarket will appear on the front of their shirts starting next season. The deal is reportedly valued at $22 million over two years and appears to circumvent Italy’s prohibition on gambling-related sponsorships. Italy enacted the Decreto Dignità (Dignity Decree) in 2019, which bans all forms of gambling and betting advertisements—including sponsorships for sports teams and leagues. Alongside serving as the club’s primary sponsor, Polymarket is also designated as the Official Fan Intelligence & Digital Insight Partner of Lazio. The club has emphasized that Polymarket functions as an informational resource rather than a betting platform. “Polymarket is a partner that interprets the future, capable of reading and analyzing trends through innovative tools,” stated Lazio President Claudio Lotito. “This agreement strengthens Lazio’s international development strategy and reflects the club’s commitment to positioning itself as a modern, open, and competitive entity within the evolving landscape of global sport.” Italy Blocks Access to Polymarket Italy is listed among the restricted jurisdictions on Polymarket’s website, alongside 32 other countries. The Agenzia delle Dogane e dei Monopoli (ADM), Italy’s gambling regulatory authority, blocked access to Polymarket last year due to concerns that it operates as an unlicensed gambling platform. Following an appeal, the agency permitted users to view the site’s news, surveys, and general information, but continues to prevent Italians from engaging in Polymarket’s prediction markets. Michele Ciccarese, Marketing & Commercial Director of Serie A, clarified that the partnership aims to promote the league in America, not to advance Polymarket’s presence in Italy. “The United States represents a key growth market for Serie A,” said Ciccarese. “Our exclusive alliance with Polymarket, as Regional Partner in the USA, enables us to connect with a new generation of fans via a platform aligned with emerging trends. It delivers an interactive, real-time experience rooted in insights and participation—perfectly matching their expectations.” Companies Find Workarounds Around Gambling Sponsorship Bans While officially framed as a move to boost Serie A’s profile in the U.S., this deal also exposes Polymarket’s brand within Italy despite the country’s gambling sponsorship restrictions and the company’s blocked status there. Other gambling operators have similarly navigated around Italy’s sponsorship rules. Betsson, the Swedish gambling firm, displays its logo on Inter Milan’s shirts under the name Betsson Sport. Betsson Sport is officially described as a “sports infotainment” portal and is legally distinct from Betsson’s core gambling operations. Notably, Betsson holds a valid gambling license in Italy. LeoVegas.News pioneered a loophole by allowing companies to use similar branding under different names. As the news division of online casino LeoVegas, it now partners with Atalanta and Inter Milan. Roma features Eurobet.live on its kit—another “sports infotainment” brand separate from Eurobet, which belongs to Entain. Meanwhile, AC Milan collaborates with Snaifun instead of directly with Snai, which is owned by Flutter. Roma and Palermo both showcase StarCasinò Sport on their jerseys, a distinct entity from StarCasinò, the actual gambling brand. Similarly, Napoli has partnered with 365Scores, part of the bet365 group. Clubs seeking to maintain visibility in the English Premier League may consider these strategies ahead of next season, when the EPL will implement a voluntary ban on front-of-shirt gambling sponsors. To date, teams have avoided compliance by securing sleeve and training kit sponsorships instead. 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.

iGame

Yasiel Puig Faces a Longer Prison Sentence Than the Bookies Who Accepted His Bets

(AsiaGameHub) -   Prosecutors are asking for an 18-month prison term for Yasiel Puig, a former MLB player convicted on two federal charges. These charges stem from Puig’s connection to illegal bookmaker Wayne Nix, who will likely receive a shorter sentence. Puig is scheduled to be sentenced on May 26. Nix is still awaiting his sentencing, but having pleaded guilty, he’s expected to face a punishment similar to that of fellow illegal bookmaker Mathew Bowyer. Bowyer—known for accepting wagers from Shohei Ohtani’s disgraced interpreter—was given a 12-month prison sentence. He admitted guilt to running an illegal gambling business, money laundering, and filing a false tax return. Puig’s Expected Sentence Linked to Failure to Cooperate Puig was found guilty of lying to investigators and obstructing justice. While these offenses carry a maximum sentence of 20 years, prosecutors are seeking 18 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release and a $55,200 fine. Nix’s charges have a maximum penalty of eight years. Puig’s case revolves around a 2022 interview where he denied placing illegal bets. He told investigators he knew Donny Kadokawa—the intermediary he used to place bets—through baseball, not sports gambling. It’s alleged he lost over $1.5 million gambling with Nix via Kadokawa. Yet it’s his lack of cooperation, rather than the illegal betting itself, that will lead to his imprisonment. The 35-year-old initially agreed to a plea deal, telling prosecutors he would plead guilty to one count of making a false statement to a federal agent and pay a $55,000 fine. However, he later backed out of the agreement. During the trial, investigators cited his lack of cooperation when playing interview audio. Nix also described dealing with the ex-Dodger as a “disaster.” While cooperating with investigators, the bookie said he cut ties with the player because “he simply wasn’t worth the headache.” Nix stated Puig repeatedly refused to pay his losses yet demanded additional credit to place more bets. Defense Seeks Leniency Keri Curtis Axel, Puig’s attorney, has urged the judge to show leniency and spare her client from prison time. “Yasiel Puig is a first-time offender who has already been punished through years of prosecution, reputational damage, financial consequences, and the effective destruction of his professional life,” she told The Athletic. “A prison sentence is not proportional to his conduct and would not serve any rehabilitative purpose here. The Court has full discretion over the sentence, and the defense will request probation.” Puig Avoided Punishment for Alleged Sexual Assaults While facing prison time for lying to investigators, Puig has escaped consequences for what appear to be more severe crimes. In March 2021, a woman accused him of sexual assault during a 2018 Lakers game. He denied the allegations, but the woman later sued him. The two parties settled in 2022, as reported by Sports Illustrated. He is also alleged to have settled a lawsuit filed by two women who claimed he sexually assaulted them in 2017. The settlements were kept secret, allowing Puig to avoid any MLB sanctions over the cases. Puig Continues Career in Canada Amid Charges Despite the potential of facing prison time soon, Puig signed a contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs last month. He started their first game on May 10, hitting two home runs in the process. Yasiel Puig, currently playing for the Toronto Maple Leafs of the Canadian Baseball League, just homered in his first first game in Canada pic.twitter.com/XHVlQlnL4L— Baseball Quotes (@BaseballQuotes1) May 10, 2026 When announcing his signing, the Canadian Baseball League made no mention of his likely imprisonment, but stated: “Puig’s signing continues a growing trend of high-profile talent joining the CBL.” The Leafs have reportedly given the former Dodgers star the largest contract in Canadian Baseball League history. Before signing with Toronto, Puig played in Korea for the Kiwoom Heroes. 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.

iGame

Affiliate Leaders Awards 2026 Entry Deadline Approaches Before Lisbon Ceremony

(AsiaGameHub) -   Companies and individuals have less than one month remaining to nominate candidates for the Affiliate Leaders Awards 2026, with the submission deadline set for Thursday, June 11. The ceremony is scheduled for Wednesday, September 30, and will bring together 400 professionals at Lisbon’s MEO Arena, located directly adjacent to the Feira Internacional de Lisboa—the venue hosting both the Affiliate Leaders Summit 2026 and the SBC Summit 2026. Launched in 2025, the Affiliate Leaders Awards were created to celebrate the companies and individuals driving innovation in affiliate marketing within the global sports betting and iGaming industries. In just a year, the event has become a premier industry milestone, offering shortlisted nominees significant exposure and recognition before key decision-makers, affiliates, and suppliers from across the world. “The Affiliate Leaders Awards were my personal highlight of 2025. It was fantastic to see so many worthy winners honored, but what truly stood out was the sense that the affiliate community had finally united to recognize its own accomplishments, moving beyond just a handful of categories,” said Rasmus Sojmark, CEO and Founder of SBC. “With the Affiliate Leaders Summit evolving into an independent event in 2026, affiliate marketing will take center stage in Lisbon during September. The awards provide companies with an opportunity to formally acknowledge the individuals, campaigns, and teams behind their achievements—and to be seen for the impact they’ve delivered over the past year,” he added. This year, TV presenter and reporter Alison Bender returns as host, presenting accolades across 20 different award categories. Designed to honor excellence throughout the entire affiliate ecosystem, the awards spotlight contributions from affiliates, operator affiliate programs, and supplier-side organizations supporting the affiliate marketing landscape. Categories include individual honors such as Affiliate Content Manager of the Year and Affiliate Marketing Manager of the Year, as well as broader vertical distinctions like Best Affiliate Network, Sports Affiliate, Casino Affiliate, and Crypto Affiliate of the Year. Past winners include notable names such as Clever Advertising, Flashscore, Gentoo Media, Odds Scanner Group, and bet365 Partners. Individual recognitions were also awarded, with Alina Famenok (former CEO of Already Media) and Jesper Søgaard and Christian Kirk Rasmussen (Co-founders and Co-CEOs of Better Collective) each being named ‘Affiliate Leader of the Year’. To ensure credibility and authenticity, shortlists are determined by an independent panel of judges, while the final winners are selected through public voting. The evening begins with a welcome drinks reception, followed by a three-course dinner, live entertainment, a DJ, and an open bar lasting through the night. Individual tickets and tables can be reserved here: Sponsorship opportunities for the Affiliate Leaders Awards remain available, including headline, premium, and supporting partnership tiers. For sponsorship inquiries, please contact the sales team at sales@sbcgaming.com. Nominations for the Affiliate Leaders Awards close on June 11. Companies and individuals may submit entries here. To assist entrants, SBC has published a dedicated guide outlining best practices for creating award-winning submissions, including insights into what judges evaluate when reviewing applications. The Affiliate Leaders Awards are part of the Affiliate Leaders Summit 2026, the new standalone event for performance marketing and acquisition professionals. It will run alongside the SBC Summit at Feira Internacional de Lisboa from September 29 to October 1, 2026. The summit will feature its own exhibition floor, conference agenda, Affiliate Leaders Academy, exclusive networking events, and the Affiliate Leaders Awards ceremony. Additional details are available on the Affiliate Leaders Summit website. 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.

iGame

Survey Reveals Florida Punters Favor Simple Bets, Especially on NFL Games

(AsiaGameHub) -   Almost a quarter of Florida residents are placing sports bets, according to a new survey, with 80% of gamblers wagering on NFL game outcomes over the past 12 months. The findings come from a University of North Florida and Sport Impact Jax survey of more than 800 Florida residents conducted between January and February. Football stands out as the top sport for Floridian gamblers when it comes to betting. Fifty-five percent of online bettors reported placing at least one college football bet in the past year. Most Floridians, the data shows, prefer straightforward wagers. The majority of punters (60%) said their bets were moneyline bets. Also known as outrights, moneyline bets are considered the simplest form of sports wagering. They typically involve selecting one team in a head-to-head matchup before the game begins. Florida Sports Betting Habits: Moneyline Wagers Remain Popular Most Floridians aren’t making large sports bets. Nearly three-quarters of Sunshine State gamblers stake $20 or less per game, with just one in 10 typically betting more than $50 on a single game. NFL betting is growing across the U.S., with bettors placing $30 billion in wagers on the league last season. However, NFL executives seem to believe the biggest profits may not come from moneyline bets but rather live-game wagers. In March, CNN reported that the NFL has made significant investments in sportsbook provider Genius Sports. Genius specializes in in-play betting solutions and claims it’s working to “turn traditional fans into highly engaged in-play bettors.” The NFL holds at least a 6% ownership stake in the company, which reports that live-game betting now accounts for approximately 30% of all bets placed on NFL games. In Florida, nearly half of punters said they had placed an in-game bet in the past 12 months. The Miami Dolphins during an NFL game. (Image: CCS Pictures [CC BY-SA 2.0]) Sports Betting Growing in Florida Sports betting was officially legalized in Florida in 2021 through a gaming agreement with the Seminole Tribe. However, various legal challenges delayed its implementation until late 2023. The Seminole Tribe’s Hard Rock Bet remains the only retail mobile sportsbook partner in the Sunshine State. Unsurprisingly, over two-thirds of Floridians say this is the platform they use to place their sports bets. The tribe notably opened the first high-stakes bingo hall in the U.S. in 1979. Some have suggested that the tribe’s monopoly on gambling in Florida has contributed to increased criminal activity. Law enforcement continues to target illegal betting operations across the state. Raids have resulted in arrests including a county sheriff and seizures of dozens of illegally installed slot machines. 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.

iGame

GLI compliance experts visit Bulgaria to assess the local sector

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Government and Regulatory Affairs team at Gaming Labs International (GLI) met with officials from the Bulgarian regulator to share insights on enhancing the local sector. Lucas Zavarise, Manager of GLI’s Government and Regulatory Affairs unit, traveled to Sofia alongside colleague Kevin Kostreci, GLI’s Manager of Technical Compliance, for an in-person discussion with Bulgaria’s National Revenue Agency (NRA). In a LinkedIn post, Zavarise praised the exchange, noting that it centered on Bulgaria’s market developments and regulatory framework—elements he described as vital for more effective, practical, and future-focused regulation. He emphasized that such interactions are a top priority for GLI, especially given the fast-paced evolution of the gambling industry in terms of technology, product innovation, and shifting regulatory expectations. Zavarise and Kostreci were joined by Martin Yakimov, Head of Gambling at Velchev & Co. Law Office, and Alexander Popov, Director of Gambling Oversight at the NRA. Popov provided further details about the meeting to SBC News, explaining that GLI has shown particular interest in how the Bulgarian regulator manages the integration of artificial intelligence within gambling products, among other topics. He remarked: “The meeting with GLI took place in connection with their newly established Government and Regulatory Affairs unit. It was constructive and conducted in a spirit of mutual understanding.” “The GLI representatives introduced themselves and sought to establish a channel for ongoing dialogue regarding the regulator’s requirements for gaming software and equipment submitted for registration by gambling operators.” “We discussed certain confidential matters, which I will not comment on publicly, but we also explored the regulator’s potential stance toward games incorporating artificial intelligence elements.” “Another key topic was the growing popularity of ‘virtual sports’ and ‘esports’ and how these are currently regulated.” Bulgaria recently held snap elections, with the center-left coalition led by former President and current Prime Minister Rumen Radev achieving a decisive victory. Amid rising populist movements across Eastern Europe, SBC News interviewed the Association of Organisers of Gambling Games and Activities in Bulgaria (AOGGAB) about what the sector hopes for under the new government. Milen Totev, Chairman of AOGGAB, stated: “We anticipate legislative initiatives. Our position is that any major changes should involve consultation with the industry, the regulator, and relevant experts.” “If the state aims to strengthen the economy, it must recognize that one legal sector cannot be treated solely as a challenge. Instead, it should be properly regulated, monitored, and integrated into the country’s broader economic strategy.” 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.

iGame

Entain urges Premier League clubs to end partnerships with unlicensed betting sponsors

(AsiaGameHub) -   Ladbrokes and Coral owner Entain has issued a direct appeal to six Premier League clubs that have partnerships with unlicensed betting operators, as revealed in letters obtained by SBC News. Simon Zinger, Entain’s General Counsel, sent open letters to the six teams, continuing the company’s campaign against sponsorship deals involving unlicensed gambling brands. This effort follows an earlier appeal by Entain’s Chief Executive Officer, Stella David, addressed to the Premier League and its gambling regulator. Zinger wrote to senior figures at Burnley, Bournemouth, Fulham, Everton, Sunderland, and Wolverhampton Wanderers, urging them to “commit to only using UK-licensed gambling sponsors from next season onwards”. Entain criticises ‘aggressive marketing’ by unlicensed operators The clubs are currently partnered with the following firms: Burnley with 96.com, Bournemouth with BJ88, Fulham with SBOTOP, Everton with Stake, Sunderland with W88, and Wolves with DEBET. With the exception of Stake, all these companies are ‘Asian-focused’ bookmakers and none hold a licence issued by the British Gambling Commission. All six firms were once licensed in the UK through TGP Europe, a white-label provider based in the Isle of Man. Stake surrendered its licence in February 2024 amid controversy over its marketing practices, and TGP Europe subsequently collapsed in April 2024, receiving a fine from the Gambling Commission in the process. In correspondence with Bill Foley, Bournemouth’s Chairman, and Angus Kinnear, Everton’s CEO, Entain’s Zinger expressed that the FTSE 100 company “is deeply concerned” about the clubs’ agreements with BJ88 and Stake. “As you will know, Stake’s heavy reliance on cryptocurrency and its history of operating in grey jurisdictions make it a lightning rod for concerns regarding money laundering and lack of player protection,” he wrote to Kinnear. “Stake’s rapid rise has been fuelled by an unregulated streamer culture that specifically targets younger demographics—demographics your Everton in the Community programmes are dedicated to protecting.” Addressing Bill Foley, Zinger stated: “The sponsorship with BJ88 is particularly concerning given the brand’s lack of transparent corporate history and its focus on the grey market. “BJ88 has frequently been linked to aggressive marketing tactics in regions where gambling is prohibited, often using unregulated payment methods like cryptocurrency to avoid financial oversight.” “By accepting sponsorship from a firm that operates in the shadows of international law, Bournemouth is actively legitimising the infrastructure used by the global black market.” Operator calls on clubs to act in place of Premier League Back in February, Stella David appealed directly to Richard Masters, CEO of the Premier League, questioning why clubs competing in the world’s most-watched football league should be promoting gambling brands that do not hold a UK licence. From next season, the Premier League will enforce a voluntary ban on front-of-shirt sponsorships with betting companies, regardless of whether they are licensed or unlicensed. However, sleeve sponsorships, perimeter LED advertising, and social media promotions will remain permitted. Currently, there are no regulations prohibiting clubs from partnering with offshore betting operators. The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) rules allow clubs to maintain such partnerships as long as the unlicensed company does not directly target British customers—a policy influenced by the global reach of the league. Concerns over the scale of black market gambling activity in the UK, alongside public and political frustration with gambling advertising, have prompted the DCMS to consider whether to outright ban unlicensed betting firms from sponsoring sports in Britain. “I welcome the government’s intention to crack down on this,” Zinger wrote in his letters to Bournemouth and Everton. “Going beyond the Premier League’s voluntary front-of-shirt gambling ban from next season, they are consulting on banning all unlicensed, illegal gambling operator sponsorship in sport, including sleeve patches and perimeter boards.” Entain is clearly not waiting for the DCMS’ Illegal Gambling Taskforce to conclude its consultation—perhaps mindful of how prolonged UK political processes around gambling regulation can be. The company is also dissatisfied with the Premier League’s response to its CEO’s February appeal, as detailed in Zinger’s letters. “With the Premier League failing to show sufficient leadership, I am appealing to you directly,” Zinger wrote to Bournemouth’s Foley, referencing the clubs’ commitments under the Premier League Owners’ Charter. An appeal to regulation Entain has highlighted charter provisions requiring clubs to operate “in an economically stable, sustainable, and socially responsible manner” and “with good faith, honesty and the highest possible standards of professional behaviour and sporting integrity”. Zinger argues that the illicit activities of offshore operators—such as the aforementioned lack of transparency surrounding BJ88—combined with estimates from the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) that £2.7 billion is staked annually with unregulated and illegal operators, undermines these charter obligations. “On the evidence set out above, a front-of-shirt partnership with an unlicensed gambling operator cannot be reconciled with either principle,” he said, adding that both Bournemouth and Everton are “proud clubs” that “deserve better than to be sold out to nefarious sponsors”. The UK gambling sector faces significant pressure in 2026, driven by increased political scrutiny—particularly around advertising and retail betting—and the growing financial impact of higher taxation. In this context, Entain is intensifying its advocacy against unlicensed sponsorship in football. Appealing to a sport deeply embedded in British culture and communities, the company is positioning itself as a responsible actor while distancing itself from unregulated operators at a time when many people, including those in political circles, struggle to distinguish between regulated and unregulated gambling activities. Want to hear more stories like this? Check out the new SBC Media YouTube Channel, the new home of all things multimedia at SBC, where our team deep-dives into the biggest stories from 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.

iGame

Polymarket continues securing major partnerships as Serie A USA becomes its latest collaborator

(AsiaGameHub) -   Polymarket has entered into a multi-year contract with Serie A USA to serve as the league's official and exclusive prediction market partner within the United States. This collaboration is a component of Serie A's wider international growth plan and follows closely on the heels of a comparable agreement Polymarket made with LALIGA North America a month prior. The initiative will involve integrating the prediction market platform into the league's media and digital channels targeting the US audience, aiming to enhance interaction with American soccer supporters in the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. As per the deal, Polymarket will be the sole US platform for Serie A prediction markets, utilizing official league data provided by the NYSE-listed company Genius Sports. “The United States is a crucial expansion territory for Serie A,” stated Michele Ciccarese, Marketing and Commercial Director of Lega Serie A. “Our exclusive partnership with Polymarket, as a Regional Partner in the USA, enables us to connect with a new wave of fans via a platform that captures current trends. “It provides an interactive, live product based on data and involvement that matches their preferences perfectly.” The firms indicated that employing official data is meant to bolster "transparency, integrity, and accuracy" in prediction market products related to Serie A matches and narratives. “The future of sports fan involvement will be characterized by increased participation, not just more content,” commented Shayne Coplan, Founder and CEO of Polymarket. “Prediction markets allow fans to actively analyze the game as it happens, and allying with Serie A introduces this framework to one of the globe's most popular leagues at a time when American enthusiasm for the sport is unprecedented.” This agreement marks another significant soccer collaboration for Polymarket as the prediction market firm persists in its vigorous push into international sports. Polymarket noted that the partnership underscores rising American appetite for interactive sports engagement tools, particularly among younger, tech-savvy demographics. Polymarket’s swift ascent to prominence The company has kept broadening its sports presence lately, with collaborations and market services now covering leagues and bodies such as Major League Baseball (MLB), the National Hockey League (NHL), the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), and Major League Soccer (MLS). However, this growth has attracted criticism, especially in Europe. Nations including Romania, Germany, Belgium, Italy, Poland, Hungary, the Netherlands, Switzerland, France, and Portugal have all banned prediction markets from operating within their borders, viewing them as a type of gambling. Polymarket counters that it provides 'events contracts'—where users bet against one another on the result of an occurrence. Debate has primarily arisen from the firm offering these 'events contracts' on real-world happenings, ranging from the ordinary—like weather forecasts—to the extremely strange—such as the return of Jesus Christ—and alarming—including predictions on when the US might attack Iran. Polymarket’s Iran markets These geopolitical markets have sparked numerous worries regarding ethics and insider trading, prompting warnings for White House personnel against using confidential information to trade on prediction market platforms. In the United States, it is overseen by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), along with other fast-growing prediction market platforms, with Kalshi being the other primary competitor. Indications of further possible growth for both companies, and the prediction market industry overall, have recently emerged. These signals have appeared in both Europe and North America, with Gibraltar licensing the frequently mentioned ADI Predictstreet—the official prediction market partner for the 2026 FIFA World Cup—as a B2C betting intermediary last month. In a more immediate and relevant update for Polymarket, this very week it started allowing iOS users to download and use its US exchange, having previously maintained a waitlist and restricted access to chosen clients. The prediction market industry has faced endless examination, yet its influence has not diminished. The ongoing global mainstreaming of these platforms via partnerships with renowned organizations like Serie A is merely the most recent indication—however disconcerting—that they are becoming a permanent fixture. Interested in more stories like this one? Visit the new SBC Media YouTube Channel, the central hub for all multimedia content at SBC, where our team explores the major news from 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.

iGame

Bookies Corner: Betfair and Midnite retain faith in FA Cup’s magic

(AsiaGameHub) -   The FA Cup final between Chelsea FC and Manchester City takes place tomorrow at 3pm UK time, marking the conclusion of another edition of the world’s oldest football competition—complete with its trademark giant-killing upsets. However, discussions surrounding the FA Cup aren’t always glowing; a quick scan of UK media and social platforms often reveals sentiments that the tournament “doesn’t feel the same” or has “lost its magic,” among similar remarks. In an FA Cup-themed edition of SBC News’ Bookies Corner, we explored whether UK bookmakers share this view. According to James Mackie, PR Executive at Flutter Entertainment representing Betfair, and Ben Cullen, Head of Risk at Midnite, the answer is decidedly no… Bookies Corner: The FA Cup is the world’s oldest football tournament—but do bettors still value it? James Mackie: Absolutely. Betfair punters continue to appreciate the FA Cup’s appeal, particularly in televised matches. We observe heightened engagement during fixtures featuring major cup upsets or games that go into extra time—moments that really capture bettors’ interest. Throughout the 2025/26 FA Cup, over £170 million was traded on the Betfair exchange, with 38 matches each surpassing £1 million in turnover. How do FA Cup weekends compare to Premier League weekends in terms of betting activity—do you notice a noticeable dip in engagement during the tournament? Ben Cullen: Not at all. The FA Cup remains a significant event. In earlier rounds, there are often far more matches scheduled, creating a distinct atmosphere—especially when lower-league minnows face top-tier English clubs eager to make their mark, as we’ve seen several times this season. Who doesn’t enjoy a classic cup upset? Looking back at this year’s tournament, which teams were the punters’ early favourites, and did any underdogs attract early attention? James Mackie: In the 2025/26 FA Cup betting markets, Manchester City started as early favourites at 9/2—hardly surprising given their record of winning two of the last seven finals and reaching the last two showpieces. Liverpool and Arsenal followed closely at 11/2 and 13/2 respectively, with Chelsea next at 8/1. Interestingly, Aston Villa accounted for 23% of early-stage stakes despite being priced around 19/1. They were eliminated in the fourth round by Newcastle at home. Do fixtures between vastly mismatched teams—such as a Premier League side versus a National League club—present challenges in terms of trading and odds setting? Ben Cullen: Not inherently. That said, when there’s a huge gap in quality, team news and squad rotation become critical factors requiring close monitoring. If the stronger team fields a heavily rotated or inexperienced lineup, it can trigger sharp odds movements shortly before kick-off—demanding a swift response. Do matches pitting smaller clubs against Premier League giants tend to draw particular interest from bettors? James Mackie: Generally, yes. Clashes between underdogs and English football heavyweights generate strong interest, and shorter odds often draw larger volumes of money—especially on winning margin markets. For instance, Manchester City vs Salford and Chelsea vs Port Vale each saw around £2.8 million traded, even though the home sides were overwhelming favourites (City at 1/20, Chelsea at 1/12)—and both won as expected. Mansfield, after pulling off a giant-killing win over Burnley in the fourth round, faced Arsenal in a much closer contest than anticipated and generated £5.5 million in turnover. We often celebrate the “magic of the FA Cup.” Which giant killings or underdog performances stood out most for your trading teams this season? James Mackie: Macclesfield’s victory over Crystal Palace was the standout upset of the tournament and produced the biggest pre-match price winner of the season in the competition, with Macclesfield starting at 15/1. Wrexham vs Chelsea attracted nearly £7 million in trading and ranked as the fourth-highest turnover match of the competition, even though the Welsh side ultimately fell short of an upset. Ben Cullen: It’s hard to top Macclesfield eliminating Crystal Palace, given they were 117 places below them in the league pyramid. Midnite offered 7/1 on Macclesfield to win the tie and 11/1 for a 90th-minute victory. We also witnessed Southampton oust Arsenal, Port Vale defeat Sunderland, and Mansfield overcome Burnley. What’s the current betting sentiment ahead of the final—are punters backing favourites Manchester City or underdogs Chelsea? James Mackie: So far, 71% of the total volume has been placed on Manchester City, who are currently priced at 4/5 to claim their eighth FA Cup title—implying a 56% chance of victory. Chelsea, aiming for their ninth FA Cup, are the underdogs at 7/2, equating to a 22% implied probability. Ben Cullen: The market is firmly behind the favourites, with punters overwhelmingly supporting Manchester City. Guardiola appears fully committed to securing silverware, resting Haaland for a full 90 minutes against Crystal Palace—leaving Chelsea with a tough task ahead. What about individual player markets? Are there specific players bettors expect to shine this weekend? Ben Cullen: All eyes will be on Erling Haaland, who has scored 26 Premier League goals and found the net three times in three FA Cup appearances. It will require an exceptional defensive effort to contain him. Meanwhile, Chelsea will be counting on Cole Palmer to produce something special, though he’s been relatively quiet this season with just 10 goal contributions in 24 league appearances. Once the FA Cup concludes, attention will return to the Premier League. With the title race shaping up to go down to the wire, who do you expect to lift the trophy in May? Ben Cullen: The odds strongly favour Arsenal. With The Gunners set to face already-relegated Burnley and a Crystal Palace side distracted by European commitments, it’s difficult to see them slipping up—though they have faltered under pressure in the past. Manchester City, however, will undoubtedly push them all the way, given their depth and quality. 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.

iGame

ANJ algorithm to intensify pressure on French gambling operators

(AsiaGameHub) -   Jake Pollard Jake Pollard reports on a newly-launched algorithm designed by the Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ) to identify at risk and problem gamblers. The tool will increase pressure on French operators to monitor and document the number of excessive or pathological gamblers among their client base. This algorithm, the first of its kind in Europe, has identified 600,000 French players who are highly likely to be problem gamblers. However, beyond those statistics gathered in H2 2025, the new data presents a stark contrast with current figures for problem gamblers in France, which are estimated to have tripled between 2024 and 2025, but remain significantly lower, at 89,000. No explanation was provided for the discrepancy between the two sets of numbers. Nevertheless, among the 600,000 players identified, 300,000 are "so clearly problem gamblers that their detection by operators is essential," according to ANJ. The regulator also noted that while the upward trend since 2023 may be attributed to overall market growth, it "does not account for the entirety of the situation as the number of problem gamblers has increased at a faster rate than the total number of gamblers." Data divergence The discrepancy is also "inconsistent with the size of operators’ player bases and prevalence studies," ANJ stated, which will intensify pressure on operators to enhance their efforts in identifying individuals at risk of becoming problem gamblers. The French gambling regulator further disclosed that the 600,000 problem gamblers represent almost 9% of the total population of registered players and generated €1.2 billion in gross gaming revenue (GGR), or 60% of the total online gambling GGR in France. Given one of its key regulatory priorities is "to place the reduction of excessive or problem gambling at the heart of the regulation of the sector and its expectations of gambling operators," ANJ is requiring them to adopt the new algorithm "to comply with their compliance obligations and allow the regulator to objectively assess their progress in identifying problem gamblers and reducing the GGR generated by these players." The new system will also enable ANJ to compare the number of problem gamblers reported by operators with the number detected by the algorithm. The regulator emphasized that it "expects operators to detect those players who are clearly excessive (approximately 300,000) and to identify the entire population of excessive players as determined by the algorithm (around 600,000)." Under pressure The algorithm can be utilized alongside operators' existing tools to pinpoint excessive or problem gamblers and is not intended to measure the precise number of problem gamblers or estimate the prevalence of problem gambling in the same way general population surveys do. Nevertheless, operators may not welcome the prospect of potentially disclosing much higher volumes of GGR generated from problem gamblers than previously acknowledged. As similar initiatives are being implemented in Spain and the Netherlands, the impact of ANJ's new tool will soon be felt by Dutch and Spanish operators as well. Isabelle Falque-Pierrotin, President of ANJ, described the launch of the algorithm as "a decisive step forward for the regulator" and highlighted its ability to develop an innovative and effective instrument designed to closely reflect actual online gambler behavior. She added that the algorithm facilitates "the objective identification of problem gamblers, an endeavor operators must undertake without delay" and should also be extended to the retail networks of PMU and FDJ United, "a goal we have been advocating for the two monopolies to pursue since 2020." End game ANJ can confidently assert the accuracy of its data due to having complete visibility into French operators' data and information streams, which they continuously transmit to the regulator. This formed the basis upon which the algorithm was developed starting in 2024, using 23 indicators or risk criteria to generate a single score for each player. The indicators encompass financial transactions, gaming moderators, gaming activity and frequency, as well as the player's history; dividing players into four categories: recreational gambler, moderate-risk gambler, problem gambler, and severe problem gambler. Its performance was validated and measured against the Canadian Problem Gambling Index (CPGI), under the supervision of a scientific committee comprising recognized researchers. By focusing on identifying problem gamblers, this initiative places additional pressure on French operators, but remains consistent with ANJ's objective of addressing the issue as comprehensively as possible. It aligns with the regulator's aim of combating the 'banalization' of gambling or ensuring that sport is not associated with betting in the minds of French players and consumers. 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.

iGame

Sponsor Spotlight: Football and MMA Coverage

(AsiaGameHub) -   Sports sponsorships in the global betting and gaming industry operate around the clock. This week has already seen several high-profile deals set to reach millions of sports fans worldwide. This edition of Sponsor Spotlight examines LaLiga’s regional expansion across East and Southeast Asia, BetGoodwin’s involvement in Scottish football, Kalshi’s partnership with a returning MMA star, and Polymarket’s latest move benefiting soccer fans in the United States. LaLiga expands into Asian crypto markets Asia represents a major opportunity for European football leagues, boasting millions of domestic fans with untapped potential. LaLiga was among the first top-tier European competitions to launch a direct-to-consumer platform targeting audiences in the region, and its efforts to establish a strong presence continue successfully. The league has named WEEX, a cryptocurrency trading platform, as its new regional partner in Hong Kong and Thailand. The collaboration aims to “integrate crypto into mainstream sports” by leveraging WEEX’s approximately 6.2 million tech-focused users. View this post on Instagram A post shared by WEEX GLOBAL (@weex_exchange) BetGoodwin strengthens ties in Scotland East Sussex-based online gambling operator BetGoodwin made headlines in Scotland this week with a sponsorship agreement with Inverness Caledonian Thistle FC (ICTFC), known affectionately as the Caley Thistle, just ahead of the new season. During the 2025/26 campaign, ICTFC competed in Scottish League One, securing promotion after finishing atop the table in a tight race with Stenhousemuir FC, separated by just two points. Now promoted to the Scottish Championship for the 2026/27 season, BetGoodwin will feature prominently on the team’s jerseys through May 2028. ICTFC Announce Major Front-of-Shirt Partnership with BetGoodwin Kalshi supports Nate Diaz’s MMA comeback After stepping away from professional competition, mixed martial arts veteran Nate Diaz is set to return to action at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles on May 16. Diaz last competed professionally in 2024, winning a boxing match against former UFC fighter Jorge Masvidal. His most recent MMA bout took place in 2022, when he defeated Tony Ferguson. Prediction market platform Kalshi has signed on as a partner for Diaz’s return, backing “The Stockton Slugger” through promotional campaigns and fan engagement initiatives led by Kalshi. Polymarket boosts Serie A’s U.S. growth In another prediction market development, Polymarket has entered into a new partnership with Italy’s Serie A, focusing on expanding the league’s footprint in the United States. As American sports fans increasingly show interest in European football, Serie A aims to capitalize on this trend as part of its global outreach strategy. Partnering with one of the world’s leading prediction market platforms makes perfect sense—Polymarket being one of just two dominant players in the space. Polymarket continues to strike major deals as Serie A USA the latest to partner with firm Spotlight rankings: Who’s making an impact? 1. LaLiga/WEEX This collaboration stands out due to its alignment with two powerful sectors. With a combined following of 240 million across social media platforms in 41 countries, LaLiga enjoys massive reach. The Asian market is clearly a key priority given active local engagement, and combining that with the rapidly evolving crypto landscape creates a partnership with substantial influence. Though not a traditional sports betting deal, it reflects a broader shift many leagues are pursuing—especially as betting partnerships face growing regulatory challenges. 2. Nate Diaz/Kalshi Whether admired or criticized, there’s no denying Nate Diaz is a household name in MMA. His return to the octagon is expected to generate significant buzz across the combat sports world—a fact reflected in Netflix’s decision to livestream the event with a major investment. With Kalshi onboard, this partnership ranks as one of the most talked-about today. 3. Polymarket/Serie A Italian football has long been recognized for its excellence. For seasoned U.S. fans familiar with Serie A, this comes as no surprise. However, a new wave of American viewers is beginning to discover the league’s rich history, shaped by legends like Maldini, Totti, Buffon, and Zidane. Thanks in part to Polymarket’s support, accessing and engaging with Serie A has never been easier. 4. BetGoodwin/Caley Thistle While smaller in scale compared to other partnerships highlighted here, this deal holds great importance for devoted supporters of Inverness Caledonian Thistle. Now promoted to the Scottish Championship, BetGoodwin’s sponsorship provides crucial financial support that could help the club maintain the elite-level performance it demonstrated last season. 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.

iGame

Asian Gamblers Head to Korean Island as Casino Operator Reports Record-Breaking Q1 Profits

(AsiaGameHub) -   Asian gamblers are flocking to the subtropical South Korean island province of Jeju, driving a top casino operator to post record-breaking quarterly profits. Share prices in Lotte Tour Development surged by over 7% on May 14 following the company’s announcement of all-time-high quarterly operating profits of nearly $105 million. This represents a year-on-year increase of 2.5 times in profit growth, according to Star News, a South Korean media outlet. Growth has been fueled by rising casino revenues and increased visitor numbers, both up approximately 40% compared to the same period last year. Unnamed industry experts told the outlet that the hold rate at the firm’s flagship property, the Jeju Dream Tower Resort, reached 22.6% in April. This figure places the casino close to the performance level of some of Asia’s leading venues. The experts noted that the average hold rate for major casinos in Macao’s Cotai district stood at 26.1% in 2025. They added that these Macao casinos continue to deliver among the highest returns globally. Hotel occupancy during the off-season also improved, with foreign guest arrivals increasing. It is important to note that all casinos on Jeju Island admit only foreign passport holders. Lotte Tour Development share prices on the Korea Exchange over the past five days. (Image: Google Finance) Asian Gamblers Head for Jeju? The casino operator reported that concerns about global conflicts and potential economic downturns have not impacted its income performance. “Despite worries surrounding the situation in the Middle East and the challenges posed by the off-season, we have demonstrated explosive profit growth alongside record-high sales in the first quarter,” stated a spokesperson for Lotte Tour Development. “As the tourism season approaches, we anticipate this year’s annual results will show a significant leap forward,” the spokesperson added. In 2023, more than 2.24 million foreign tourists visited Jeju Island—an increase of 18% from 2022. Chinese travelers accounted for over two-thirds of international visitors as total tourist numbers approached 14 million. In response, the South Korean government approved plans to construct a second international airport. The new terminal in Seogwipo will be substantially larger than Jeju International Airport. Officials confirmed the project in 2024, noting that the new facility will include a runway capable of accommodating large aircraft such as the 853-seat Airbus A380. Police Issue Warning The rise in gambling activity on Jeju has sparked complaints about a surge in crime. Several murders have occurred at hotels located near casinos on the island, with police indicating that most involve Chinese nationals. Detectives also report that illegal currency exchanges are targeting Chinese gamblers in Jeju. Many of these unregulated operators claim they can assist casino winners in transferring funds back to Mainland China. However, law enforcement warns that some of these exchanges are operated by fraudsters who steal clients’ money. 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.

iGame

Colorado and Arizona Experience Declines in March Sports Betting Handle, Yet Maintain Strong Revenue Through Higher Hold Rates

(AsiaGameHub) -   Colorado and Arizona both reported declines in sports betting handle for March. Despite the drops, revenue remained strong as sportsbook hold increased. Arizona saw residents wager a total of $836.9 million on sports in the month, down from $887 million last year, a 5.7% decrease, as reported by the state’s Division of Gaming. Hold, however, was 9.27%, leading to revenue of $70.85 million. After free bet deductions, the state collected $4.8 million in tax revenue, almost double the $2.5 million collected in March 2025. In Colorado, it was a similar story. The betting handle fell from $618 million to $560.9 million, a 9% decline. Yet, similarly, the state collected double the tax revenue, up from $2.16 million to $4.39 million. March Madness Results Drive Hold Increase Last year, March Madness saw several top seeds advance deep into the tournament, which led to high payouts for bettors. The month had an unusually low hold across the board for sportsbooks of around 6%. This year, however, results were more sportsbook-friendly with strongly fancied teams such as Florida, Wisconsin, and Kansas suffering upset defeats. These would have been parlay busters for many bettors. In Arizona, the Wildcats would have been well-backed to go all the way, but disappointed Arizonans in the Final Four. The team also failed to cover some large point spreads as the tournament progressed, leading to losses for fans backing them to win big. Sportsbooks across the industry have been trending toward 9-10% hold as they increasingly focus on parlays to drive revenue. Is Handle Drop a Trend or Blip? The concern for states such as Colorado and Arizona is that sports prediction markets are eating into their betting handles. Arizona has been particularly aggressive in pursuing operators, claiming they run illegal betting sites and fail to pay state taxes. Kalshi saw almost $14 billion in volume in March, compared to just $1.2 billion last year. The company was just launching into sports in 2025 and has significantly expanded its market reach and advertising this year. Sportsbooks continue to claim they are not seeing a significant impact from users shifting to prediction markets. In both Colorado and Arizona, around 99% of all sports wagers were placed online. States with no legal online sports betting are likely to see the highest activity. New Mexico tribes filed a lawsuit this week against Kalshi to protect sports betting in the state, which is legal only through in-person wagers at tribal casinos. Colorado Lawmakers Pass Bill Restricting Sportsbooks While states with restrictive markets, such as New Mexico, are likely to see residents turn to prediction markets, lawmakers also want to control what many see as a predatory industry. In Colorado, the legislature approved a bill that imposes a range of restrictions on sportsbooks. Bill S26-131 aims to offer users “protections against abusive practices in sports betting.” The legislation would prohibit betting companies from: Accepting more than 6 separate deposits from an individual in a single day Initiating or sending push notifications or text messages to account holders soliciting bets or deposits Targeting or creating advertising content that is clearly meant for persons under 21 years old Accepting credit card deposits Author of the book “Everybody Loses: The Tumultuous Rise of American Sports Gambling”, former Colorado resident Danny Funt told CasinoBeats that the state has made many mistakes in regulating sports betting. Initially, it was liberal in issuing licenses, but most companies went out of business or left the state. It remains to be seen whether the changes included in this new bill will have a positive effect. It is also difficult to tell what a positive effect would be. For some, a higher betting handle suggests a thriving market; for others, it shows there are not enough checks and balances on betting 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.

iGame

Canadiens vs. Sabres Odds, Predictions and Picks for Thursday, May 14

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Buffalo Sabres are set to host the Montreal Canadiens in Game 5 of the NHL Eastern Conference semifinals this evening. The game begins at 7 p.m. ET and will be broadcast live on TNT and truTV. We’ve compiled all the key odds, predictions, and picks for you. DraftKings has the Sabres as a -122 favorite at home, with a total set at 5.5. While 53% of the moneyline wagers are on the Canadiens, 63% of ticket sales favor Buffalo. Best Bet: Canadiens vs. Sabres OVER 5.5 (-130) With the series level at 2-2, Buffalo now holds home-ice advantage. They secured a 3-2 victory in Montreal on Tuesday to tie the series. Three out of the first four games have gone over the total of 5.5. In the most recent matchup, when the total was set at 6.5, the UNDER was hit for the first time. This series continues to feature high-scoring action, with ample offensive chances for both teams. Montreal fired 31 shots on goal against Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, who replaced Alex Lyon in net for Buffalo during Game 4. Luukkonen, who is expected to start again tonight, may once again face a heavy barrage of shots. We’ll see if he can rise to the occasion. Overall, his postseason performance hasn’t been strong, posting a 3.37 goals-against average and .870 save percentage across three starts. Offensively, Buffalo has regained effectiveness on the power play. The Sabres scored with man-advantage goals from Tage Thompson and Zach Benson in Game 4. They are now 5-for-16 on the power play against the Canadiens. Pick: OVER 5.5 (-130) Best Player Prop for Montreal Canadiens Cole Caufield OVER 0.5 Goals (+175) Cole Caufield (seen above competing with Alex Ovechkin) delivered with a goal in Game 4. It might finally be his turn after scoring in consecutive games. Prior to that stretch, he had gone five straight games without finding the back of the net. Expect Montreal to come out aggressively tonight, and for their top scoring threat to make an impact again in Game 5. Best Player Prop for Buffalo Sabres Josh Doan OVER 0.5 Points (-115) Josh Doan has emerged as the primary playmaker against the Canadiens. He enters tonight’s game riding a five-game point-scoring streak. Five of Doan’s six points against Montreal have come as assists, highlighted by two helpers in Game 4. Additionally, he has recorded at least one assist in every game so far against the Habs. It would not be surprising to see him contribute again in Game 5. 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.

iGame

UK Prize Draws Face Scrutiny Ahead of New Voluntary Rules

(AsiaGameHub) -   A code of good practice for prize draw operators will be introduced in the UK next week. However, before its implementation, these competitions are under fire for allegedly failing to provide participants with protections comparable to those found in regulated gambling. Under current UK law, prize draws are not considered gambling if they include a free-to-enter option. As a result, operators do not need a license to run contests offering prizes ranging from cars and homes to holidays and cash. The UK government previously described the sector as one where “prize draws are a significant and growing market.” Research from 2023 indicated that the UK prize draw market generates annual revenue of £1.3 billion, involving 7.4 million adult players and over 400 operators. What is the New Code? Companies may voluntarily adopt the new code, which must be fully implemented by May 20. It includes several key provisions: Age Restrictions: Operators must restrict participation to individuals aged 18 or older and implement age verification measures. Spending Caps: Credit card payments should be limited to a maximum of £250 per month per player. Harm Monitoring: Operators are expected to make “reasonable efforts” to monitor user activity for signs of compulsive behavior and offer tools such as “cooling-off” periods or account suspensions. Transparency on Odds: When feasible, operators should disclose the likelihood of winning (for example, by stating the maximum number of entries available). Free Route Prominence: The “free entry” method must be presented as prominently as paid entry options, ensuring it remains a genuine alternative rather than an obscure workaround. Close to 200 companies have signed up, including major operators such as Omaze, BOTB, and Raffle House. An Omaze spokesperson stated that the adoption of the code represented a “positive step toward raising standards across the industry.” The company emphasized that it has long been committed to customer safety practices and expressed pride that many of its existing safeguards are now formally included in the sector-wide code. Free Entry or Pay Hundreds of Pounds One Omaze competition offers the chance to win a £3.5 million ($4.7 million) house along with £250,000 in cash. Although users can enter the contest at no cost, they also have multiple paid options that increase their chances of winning. We contacted the company for further details about its policies and how the voluntary code would affect them. Instead of a direct response, we were added to their marketing email list and received an automated message featuring an “epic” winner’s story. Omaze house competition The company promotes itself as a mutually beneficial model: for every competition, it pledges to donate £1 million to charity. This means that even if participants do not win the grand prize, they still contribute to charitable causes. Critics argue that the amount donated represents only a small portion of the total funds raised and suggest that people who wish to support charities should give directly rather than through third-party platforms. “Omaze isn’t a scam. It’s more depressing than that,” wrote a critical Substack author back in 2023. The criticism centers on what they describe as “the implication that we need an incentive to act charitably, to act kindly, to help people, animals, the planet.” Harm Monitoring Insufficient, Claims Addict Others have raised concerns about inadequate safeguards against individuals who engage compulsively in prize draw games. The BBC highlighted the case of Lisa, a self-described prize draw addict who accumulated thousands of pounds in debt due to her involvement in these competitions. “You win £20 credit and £30 instant win prizes, and it keeps you going and feeling, ‘Oh, this is fun.’ It’s like when you play a slot machine,” she explained. She admitted to investing “everything” she had into her habit—mirroring patterns commonly reported by gambling addicts. “It looks like a real grey area that’s being exploited,” said Dr. Matt Gaskell, a consultant at the NHS Northern Gambling Service. “It’s becoming something that more and more staff are mentioning. That’s why we think there needs to be tougher laws and regulations,” he added. Similar calls for stricter oversight have emerged within the broader gambling industry, where companies have faced accusations of intentionally fostering problem gambling and neglecting player protection. The UK government has indicated that should this voluntary self-regulation prove ineffective in reducing harm, it may pursue formal legislation to bring the prize draw sector under the scope of the Gambling Act. 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.