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Oklahoma Governor Vetoed Ban on Sweepstakes Casinos, Senate Rejected Legal Sports Betting Bill

(AsiaGameHub) -   Gambling in Oklahoma will likely stay in a regulatory gray area for the foreseeable future, as Governor Kevin Stitt vetoed a proposed ban on sweepstakes casinos. The action comes shortly after lawmakers rejected legislation to legalize sports betting in the state. Both the House and Senate passed the bill that would explicitly ban sweepstakes casinos. The Senate approved SB1589 by a 48-0 vote in early March, while the House voted 65-21 in favor of the bill last week. Gov. Stitt, however, broke with the bipartisan consensus and vetoed the new law on Monday. The governor has not released an official statement explaining why he rejected the legislation. He posted on X that he considered “each bill with care and intention, thinking of the families, communities, and future generations who will be impacted.” As I complete my final bill review meetings as Governor, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude. The process has meant weighing each bill with care and intention, thinking of the families, communities, and future generations who will be impacted. What a privilege this… pic.twitter.com/pUOuSPhS6B— Governor Kevin Stitt (@GovStitt) May 13, 2026 First elected in 2018, Gov. Stitt’s term in office will end in January of next year. He has long strongly opposed expanding gambling in the state through tribal compacts, and has stated he will veto any bill that grants a monopoly to tribes. Stitt’s veto of the sweepstakes ban may stem from a concern that it would strengthen the tribes’ exclusive rights to offer gambling in Oklahoma, mirroring other arrangements he has opposed. Bill Would Have Prohibited Dual-Currency Gambling The legislation would have explicitly banned platforms from offering online casino games through a dual-currency system. However, it carved out an exception “as provided in the Oklahoma Charity Games Act or asotherwise authorized to be conducted on Indian lands in compliance with the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act.” This specific provision of the legislation is likely what led Gov. Stitt to refuse to sign the ban into law. In theory, the exception could have allowed tribes to launch and operate online casino games using dual currencies. Non-tribal groups that operated sweepstakes casinos would have faced a Class C2 felony charge, with fines ranging from $500 to $2,000 and potential imprisonment. Tribal Push For Sports Betting Also Rejected Gov. Stitt has also been public that he will veto any legislation that grants tribes the right to offer regulated sports betting in the state. “I will absolutely veto any bill that creates a monopoly or protects one at the expense of a fair, open market,” Stitt said. “We need a plan that works for all four million Oklahomans, not just a few special interests.” Lawmakers came closer than ever before to legalizing sports betting in Oklahoma, which remains one of the few U.S. states without any legal retail or online sports wagering. However, the sports betting legislation never reached Gov. Stitt’s desk. The House approved HB1047 in a 62-31 vote at the end of March, but the Senate voted it down in a 27-21 vote last month. The bill proposed allowing tribes to offer both in-person and online sports betting through commercial partners such as DraftKings and FanDuel. Tribes would have kept the majority of the revenue but would have given 8% of earnings back to the state. New Governor Could Bring Changes to Gambling Laws As Gov. Stitt’s term comes to a close, a new Governor could lead the state to finally legalize sports betting. Prediction market Kalshi currently gives the Republican Party a 92.7% chance of winning the upcoming gubernatorial race. Top candidates include Attorney General Gentner Drummond, who has publicly opposed unregulated sports prediction markets. “This is unequivocally gambling, which means it belongs under State authority,” Drummond said. “States have long had the right and responsibility to protect their own citizens from the dangers of gambling, and that should continue to hold true whether bets take place on a prediction market or inside a traditional casino.” This stance suggests Drummond may favor legalizing sports betting overseen by state authority, though whether that framework would be run through tribes remains to be seen. A survey last year showed he is the leading candidate with 35% of voter support, just ahead of Charles McCall at 33%. McCall has historically supported a Tribal-centric model for sports betting legalization. He believes the path to legal sports betting must go through the existing tribal gaming compacts, as the tribes are the state’s long-standing partners. Either way, Oklahomans will continue to be able to use unregulated sweepstakes casinos and prediction markets, but will remain barred from accessing legal sportsbooks for the foreseeable future. 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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bet-at-home faces regulatory headwinds from Austrian and German rules

(AsiaGameHub) -   Germany-headquartered operator bet-at-home has reported a challenging start to 2026 as first quarter revenues declined sharply following the impact of Austria’s betting tax increase. Gross betting and gaming revenue (GGR) for Q1 2026 fell 16.1% year-on-year to €11.34m (£9.83m), down from €13.52m in the corresponding period last year. The decline was driven primarily by weaker online sports betting performance, with sportsbook GGR falling from €12.01m to €9.63m. Despite the significant sportsbook drop, the company expects this summer’s 2026 FIFA World Cup to provide a boost to customer activity later in the year. The financial results are the first since the company was cast aside by sports entertainment giant Banijay Group, which sold its majority 53.9% controlling stake in the business, finalised on 2 January. This move by Banijay was made to focus on the development of its new Banijay Gaming unit, formed by the merger of Betclic and Tipico Sportwetten. Regulations stifle progress Much of the decline was, according to leadership, down to Austria’s betting tax increase from 2% to 5% of stakes, which came into effect on 1 April 2025. In further regulatory woes for the business, Germany’s Interstate Treaty on Gambling (GlüStV 2021), which has rules including a €1,000 monthly deposit cap, a 5.3% stake tax, €1 slot stake limits and 5-second spin rules, remains in place. An ongoing review is set to be complete by the end of the year, but until an update is issued, such intense regulation will remain in place in bet-at-home’s domestic market. “The results of the bet-at-home.com AG Group in the first quarter of 2026 reflect a challenging market environment,” said bet-at-home Chief Executive Officer, Stefan Sulzbacher. “Gross betting and gaming revenues declined by 16.1% in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the previous year to €11.34m, primarily due to weaker performance in the online sports betting segment. “In the comparative period, the increase in the betting tax in Austria from 2% to 5% of stakes (effective 1 April 2025) had not yet come into effect. The immediate pass-through of the increased costs to customers from June 2025 led to a decline in revenues as well as overall customer activity.” Sports betting volume fell significantly from €89.78m to €67.86m YoY, contributing to total betting and gaming volume declining from €103.2m to €82.3m. In contrast, the operator’s online gaming segment continued to grow. Online gaming GGR rose 13.1% YoY to €1.71m, while gaming volume increased from €13.42m to €14.46m. Net betting and gaming revenue fell from €10.81m to €8.6m after betting fees, gambling levies and VAT deductions. The company’s profitability also deteriorated during the quarter. EBITDA before special items at bet-at-home fell to a loss of €149,000 compared to positive EBITDA of €1.6m in Q1 2025, while reported EBITDA dropped from €1.17m to a loss of €320,000. Meanwhile, consolidated profit swung from a €887,000 profit last year to a €461,000 loss for the quarter. Marketing expenditure declined 7.4% YoY to €4.49m. bet-at-home.com said its marketing strategy for 2026 is heavily focused on the upcoming World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico, but that this “continues to be offset by existing regulatory, legal, and competitive uncertainties”. Other operating expenses fell 20.9% to €2.44m due to lower service provider costs, reduced legal advisory expenses and lower foreign exchange losses. Despite the weaker quarter, bet-at-home maintained a solid liquidity position. Cash and cash equivalents stood at €26.68m as of 31 March, down only slightly from €27.89m at the end of 2025. Looking ahead, the firm said it remains focused on its core German and Austrian markets. Sulzbacher added: “An emphasis is placed on the start of the FIFA World Cup, which will take place in June and July 2026 in the US, Canada, and Mexico. We expect this major event to be an additional positive driver for further business development. “In particular, increased customer activity and growth in new registrations compared to the 2025 financial year are anticipated.” bet-at-home’s recent challenges The company reiterated its full-year guidance for 2026, forecasting gross betting and gaming revenue of €46m-€54m and EBITDA before special items up to €4m. Last year, bet-at-home reported €48m revenue and €2.4m in EBITDA before special items, but these numbers have been on a gradual decline for the best part of a decade. The firm is no longer the powerhouse it once was in the late 2010s, when it was reporting turnovers of more than double of that €48m figure, and that decline has caused investors to turn away. This has led to a mammoth dip in its share price, market cap and reputation on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, where shares are trading way off its mid-2017 peak of €150. Since then, shares have dropped by over 98% and now sit at the €2.61 mark, while bet-at-home’s market cap is €18.3m – some distance away from the approximate €740m it was valued at back when its stock peaked. Nevertheless, for 2026, Sulzbacher has stood firm on the current €48m revenue outlook, despite ongoing market pressures and operational uncertainty. This article is provided by a third-party. 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Labour Leadership Turmoil: Betting Markets Price Starmer’s Ouster Amid Party Crisis

(AsiaGameHub) -   Prime Minister Keir Starmer maintains he has no plans to step down in the wake of last week’s local elections, where Labour lost 1,496 council seats throughout England. On the local front, the landscape of UK politics has changed significantly, with Labour and Conservative parties—longtime mainstays—losing constituency backing to Reform UK, the Green Party, and a fresh group of independent councillors. But Labour’s heavy defeat isn’t unexpected; all analysts foresaw a drubbing for the ruling party’s council seats, given it’s widely seen as stagnant. Starmer refuses to bow out just yet Within Labour circles, attention is now fixed on Starmer and the extent to which he’s directly responsible for this historic thrashing. As of this morning, 93 Labour MPs have publicly demanded Starmer resign or outline a timeline for stepping down, ramping up pressure on the party leader even though Labour still holds a strong parliamentary majority in the House of Commons. Labour’s crisis is made worse by projections from local election vote shares: if those results were repeated nationwide, Labour could plummet from its governing position to around 110 Commons seats, while Reform UK would become the biggest parliamentary group. This possible outcome has stoked rising anxiety among Labour MPs about whether Starmer is still the right person to protect the party’s 2024 general election victory—dubbed by critics as a “loveless majority”. Sam Rosbottom: Betfair Betting markets have responded sharply to the growing political unrest. Sam Rosbottom, a spokesperson for Betfair Politics, commented: “Westminster is once again in chaos. Sir Keir Starmer’s future as Prime Minister is very much up in the air, and bettors don’t think he’ll make it through the year, never mind to the next general election.” Rosbottom pointed out that Starmer’s odds of leaving 10 Downing Street between July and September are now 5/7 (a 58% implied chance), down significantly from 7/5 (41%) the previous night. Additionally, the PM has 1/20 odds of being replaced before the next general election. “It’s becoming more and more probable that the UK will have four Prime Ministers in four years—almost as frequent as managerial changes at Chelsea Football Club,” Rosbottom added. “Though the betting market for the next Prime Minister is a bit more stable than the one for Chelsea’s next manager.” Burnham and Streeting emerge as top contenders As talk of a Labour leadership contest grows, betting markets have zeroed in on three front-runners. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is currently leading Betfair’s odds at 13/5 (28%), even though there are questions about how he would get back to Westminster. Health Secretary Wes Streeting is next at 10/3 (23%), while former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has odds of 9/2 (18%). Kyle McGrath from Entain Politics stated that political betting markets have quickly become one of the industry’s busiest areas this year. “I also manage Eurovision betting here, which I thought would be the biggest political betting event of the year,” McGrath said. “But a Burnham vs Streeting contest later this year might come close.” McGrath also noted that customer betting patterns suggest more people expect Starmer to leave office before the end of 2026. “Personally, I don’t think KS will last until the end of the year,” he commented. “92 MPs have now called for his resignation, and there are probably many more behind closed doors—including in his own cabinet—who feel the same way.” UK politics shifts to a focus on deal-making Entain’s trading desk reports that most bets on Starmer’s departure date are centered on 2026, with the April-June 2026 window being especially popular among those looking for a leadership transition timeline. Regarding Labour’s leadership race, McGrath said bets are fairly evenly split between Burnham, Rayner, and Streeting, with outsiders like Al Carns also gaining some backing lately. Outside of Labour’s internal issues, the local elections are being seen more and more as proof that Britain has entered an era of fragmented politics, similar to other European countries. The traditional parties—Labour, Conservatives, and Liberal Democrats—are no longer part of a three-party system; instead, the electoral landscape is split, driven by the growing support for Reform UK and the Green Party. For long-time Westminster figures, these changes mean future party leaders will need a very different set of political skills—they can’t just be ideological leaders. Labour, in particular, needs more negotiators and deal-makers who can handle a split electorate with conflicting demands on issues like immigration, cost of living, public services, and ongoing identity politics. Even with increasing market talk of political instability, bookmakers don’t think Britain is heading for an early general election. Entain currently offers 8/1 (11% chance) odds for a 2026 general election and 5/1 for 2027. “Some customers are betting on an early election, possibly influenced by Farage and Tice’s frequent comments on the subject,” the company noted. A shared conclusion among Westminster insiders and betting analysts is that the UK has entered a new political era—one that must address the needs of a diverse and split electorate. Sir Keir Starmer could very well be the first major victim of this generational shift… 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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Bragg boosts 711’s upcoming Kambi sportsbook launch

(AsiaGameHub) -   Belgian gaming brand 711 has extended its partnership with Bragg Gaming Group to further enhance its offerings ahead of launching its Kambi-powered sportsbook. Approved by Belgium’s Gambling Commission, 711 successfully secured an F+ license, enabling it to operate a sportsbook within the country using Kambi’s Turnkey Sportsbook technology stack. The collaboration with Bragg also provides 711 access to the B2B provider’s Player Account Management (PAM) solution, building on their prior partnership that began in December 2025 when 711 obtained its B+ online casino license. Leveraging both Kambi and Bragg technologies, the upgraded 711 platform is set to launch just in time for the 2026 World Cup, delivering a seamless experience that transitions smoothly from casino play to sports betting. Gilles De Backer, Chief Operating Officer at 711, stated: “Entering into this agreement to expand our presence in Belgium through the upcoming launch of 711sports.be marks a significant milestone for our brand. Having already achieved notable success with our casino services via Bragg’s platform, it was a logical next step to extend our partnership into the sportsbook sector. “Integrating Kambi’s top-tier sportsbook technology alongside Bragg’s Fuze tools ensures that 711 will effectively execute its core brand identity and strategic goals in the Belgian sports betting market—delivering an exceptional user experience, competitive odds, and robust player-focused features. The timing aligns perfectly with the anticipated surge in sportsbook activity during the World Cup.” Additionally, Bragg will implement its player engagement suite Fuze across 711’s operations in both the Netherlands and Belgium. In addition to a complete integration with Kambi’s sportsbook platform, Fuze will offer Belgian users exclusive functionalities such as real-time tournaments and daily activities designed to boost player retention and engagement. Matevž Mazij, Chief Executive Officer at Bragg Gaming Group, remarked: “We are delighted to have concluded this agreement, further solidifying our global partnership with 711. “By supporting 711’s entry into the Belgian sports betting market with our adaptable PAM infrastructure, Kambi’s industry-leading sportsbook solution, and our proprietary Fuze engagement tools, we are equipping them with a comprehensive and powerful platform to compete at the highest level. We eagerly anticipate going live in time for the excitement surrounding the World Cup.” 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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Super Group CEO remains optimistic about Europe but prioritizes Africa in strategy

(AsiaGameHub) -   It’s still too early to assess the impact of the UK’s new tax regime on Super Group’s operations, but given the company’s strong focus on Africa, it may not be significantly affected. Super Group released its Q1 financial results late Wednesday, reporting revenue of $612 million (£452.4 million). On Thursday, Neal Menashe, Chief Executive Officer of Super Group, along with other C-level executives, participated in a webcast answering analysts’ questions. “The new tax rules only took effect on April 1, so we’ve only had a couple of weeks to evaluate their impact,” Menashe responded when asked about the firm’s outlook under the UK’s new 40% tax rate on online gambling. “Marketing costs will gradually decline as companies adjust their strategies and adapt to this new fiscal environment. Of course, efficiency will be crucial.” “This is part of our two core segments—International and Africa—and integrating international operations has provided us with valuable operating leverage.” Super Group remains committed to Europe The segments referenced by Menashe reflect what appears to be a routine corporate restructuring by Super Group. In its announcement on Wednesday, the company revealed it would now report its performance in two distinct segments—Africa and International—having previously segmented results based on the Betway sportsbook and Spin casino brands. Super Group explained that this change reflects a ‘shift in strategic priorities toward regional performance and market-specific dynamics.’ Menashe further clarified during the earnings call that this approach “highlights the unique operational models across different regions” and will provide shareholders with “greater insight into the key drivers and growth potential of each business unit.” Why does this matter? It matters because Africa has rapidly emerged as Super Group’s most strategically important continent. Betway, in particular, has established a solid footprint in South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, Botswana, and several other markets. Super Group is known for its disciplined approach to market entry and exit. When a region fails to meet expectations, the group does not hesitate to withdraw—such as in the US—and notably avoided entering Brazil despite being one of Europe’s largest betting operators. This does not mean, however, that Super Group is abandoning Europe or its home market, the UK—despite rising taxes in the continent’s largest gambling market and the anticipated ripple effects across the industry. “In Europe, after exiting markets where profitability was unattainable—like the US, Belgium, and Italy—we concentrated our efforts on the UK, Spain, and Ireland,” Menashe stated. “Take the UK as an example: we are rolling out more product enhancements, the brand enjoys strong recognition, customer loyalty remains high, and our marketing continues to drive record acquisition numbers. Most importantly, Betway is now positioned to compete directly with major rivals.” “The same dynamic applies in Spain, where we’re focusing on casino offerings and introducing innovative features, and in Ireland as well. The real value lies in aligning our front-end user experience with our highly efficient back-end operations.” “Meanwhile, in Africa, we already have a strong product offering, and while our back-office infrastructure needs further refinement, we are working to match the quality of our International operations. When both sides operate seamlessly together, that’s when we see peak performance—reflected in improved retention rates and overall business growth.” Super Group prepared to ‘build or buy’ across Africa Clearly, Africa is not the sole focus for Super Group. According to Menashe, there is significant synergy between its International and African divisions. Alinda van Wyck, Chief Financial Officer, emphasized that the new reporting structure is “not disproportionately weighted toward Africa.” “Despite expectations to the contrary, this framework gives us the flexibility to pursue meaningful market expansion,” she noted. “We consistently pursue growth through two key strategies: first, optimizing return on investment by tailoring marketing spend to local customer preferences and ensuring strong returns; second, refining our product mix to better suit regional needs and enhance engagement. This approach supports expansion not just in South Africa, but across the broader African continent.” Super Group is far from alone in recognizing Africa’s potential. Kaizen Gaming, Greece’s leading gaming operator, launched its Betano brand in Ghana earlier this year, marking its 20th active market. UK high-street chain Betfred maintains a presence in South Africa, evoke retains its stake in the 888AFRICA joint venture with businessman Christopher Coyne, London-based Kingmakers operates BetKing in Nigeria and SuperSportBet in South Africa, and global giant bet365 is active across multiple African nations. Numerous local players also compete in the space, including South Africa’s Sun International and HollywoodBets, as well as Nigeria’s dominant Bet9ja. Growing internet access, mobile penetration, expanding economies, and increasing consumer spending are making Africa increasingly attractive to multinational corporations. However, responsibility concerns persist. In South Africa, critics have raised alarms about the rapid expansion of the betting sector amid widespread poverty. Additionally, regulatory environments remain fluid—especially in countries prone to frequent political changes. Kenya, one of Africa’s largest betting markets, introduced a new taxation regime last year, for instance. Nonetheless, these challenges have not diminished Super Group’s confidence—a sentiment reflected in its latest figures. Q1 revenue rose 24%, from $201 million in 2025 to $267 million this year (£197.3 million). Speaking to analysts, Menashe highlighted Nigeria as a particularly promising market. “We’ve been operating there for some time, and it’s become incredibly compelling,” he said. “Across Africa—and especially in Nigeria—the economic landscape is improving, with greater currency stability.” “Given Nigeria’s massive population and growing total addressable market (TAM), we expect to significantly scale our operations there—doubling or even tripling our current business size. We’re refining our product to meet local demands, and we’re exploring both organic growth and acquisition opportunities. Both paths are on our radar, and we’ll pursue whichever delivers the best outcome.” 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 Africa’s regulator dismisses ‘unsupported’ media claims about licensed operators’ whitelist

(AsiaGameHub) -   South Africa’s regulator, the National Gambling Board (NGB), has responded to public criticism of its newly launched whitelist portal for licensed operators. The authority dismissed recent media reports questioning the accuracy of the portal—which was rolled out last month—as “speculative and unsupported.” Specifically, the NGB addressed comments regarding the Limited Payout Machines (LPMs) section of the register, which includes gambling machines located outside traditional casinos in venues such as clubs, hotels, and pubs. Although direct links to the media reports were not provided, SBC News understands that some LPMs marked as ‘closed’ were later verified as licensed, potentially causing confusion about their legal status. “It is incorrect to assume that the word ‘CLOSED’ appearing next to an LPM licence indicates regulatory failure or unlawful gambling activity,” the NGB stated. The regulator explained that the term ‘CLOSED’ may appear for various reasons, including temporary renovations, unpaid fees, ongoing disputes, or a short-term suspension of operations. “Unless there is evidence that gambling continues unlawfully at these premises, claiming the register’s assurances are ‘false’ is speculative and lacks support.” The NGB also refuted claims that the register excludes all online gambling operators, calling the assertion “inaccurate” given that online sports betting companies like Betway are clearly listed. SBC News identified only one visible public comment on the register circulating online, originating from the South African Bookmakers’ Association (SABA). While SABA’s statement was largely positive about the initiative, it urged the NGB to ensure the database is regularly updated so that new licensed operators are not disadvantaged by outdated information. The Association pointed out that certain licenses issued by Provincial Licensing Authorities (PLAs) in March 2026 had not yet appeared in the register as of 9 April. For context, South Africa has nine PLAs responsible for issuing licenses within their respective regions, with the NGB database being populated by data from these authorities. In conclusion, the NGB said: “We remain committed to collaborating with PLAs and other stakeholders to strengthen regulatory oversight, improve data management systems, and enhance public trust in South Africa’s regulated gambling sector.” 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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2026 Preakness Stakes Betting Guide: Odds, Post Positions, and Predictions

(AsiaGameHub) -   The 151st edition of the Preakness Stakes will take place on Saturday at Laurel Park in Laurel, Maryland. The race is scheduled for a post time of 6:50 p.m. ET and will be broadcast live on NBC. Iron Honor stands as the morning line favorite at 9-2 odds, trained by Chad Brown and assigned to post position No. 9. This year marks the first time since 1908 that the Preakness will not be held at Pimlico Race Course, which is currently undergoing extensive redevelopment. Preakness Stakes Field, Odds, Post Positions, Trainers, Jockeys Below is the complete list of the 14 horses competing in the 2026 Preakness Stakes: Post PositionHorseTrainerJockeyOdds1Taj MahalBrittany RussellSheldon Russell5-12OcelliWhit BeckmanTyler Gaffalione6-13CrupperDonnie Von HemelJunior Alvarado30-14RobustaDoug O’NeilRafael Bejarano30-15TalkinDanny GarganIrad Ortiz, Jr.20-16Chip HonchoSteve AsmussenJose Ortiz5-17The Hell We DidTodd FincherLuis Saez15-18Bull By The HornsSaffie Joseph Jr.Micah Husbands30-19Iron HonorChad BrownFlavien Prat9-210Napoleon SoloChad SummersPaco Lopez8-111Corona De OroDallas StewartJohn Velazquez30-112IncrediboltRiley MottJaime Torres5-113Great WhiteJohn EnnisAlex Achard15-114Pretty Boy MiahJeremiah EnglehartRicardo Santana Jr.15-1 Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo declined to run in the Preakness and is now targeting next month’s Belmont Stakes at Saratoga. Best Bets to Win Preakness Stakes Taj Mahal (5-1) Taj Mahal is undefeated in three races at Laurel Park, making this a familiar venue. Trainer Brittany Russell has the opportunity to become the first woman to win the Preakness, following in the footsteps of Cheri DeVaux, who made history by winning the Kentucky Derby with Golden Tempo. Taj Mahal recorded an impressive 92 Beyer Speed Figure in his most recent victory at Laurel Park, achieving a wire-to-wire triumph over nine furlongs—a distance similar to the Preakness, which is run over 9½ furlongs. His final five-furlong workout also demonstrated strong form. Chip Honcho (5-1) Chip Honcho drew post position No. 6, a gate that has produced more Preakness winners than any other (17). Trainer Steve Asmussen chose to bypass the Kentucky Derby in favor of the Preakness. Jockey Jose Ortiz, who rode Golden Tempo to victory in his first Kentucky Derby, has another shot at a Triple Crown win. Notably, Chip Honcho finished 5½ lengths ahead of Golden Tempo in December’s Risen Stakes, where he placed second behind Paladin after a strong performance. Ocelli (6-1) Ocelli entered the Kentucky Derby as a 70-1 longshot—the longest odds on the board—and nearly pulled off a stunning upset, finishing third by just one length. He also secured third place in the Wood Memorial, a key prep race for the Derby. Despite never having broken his maiden, Ocelli posted his highest Beyer Speed Figure (94) in the Kentucky Derby, positioning him competitively among the 14 contenders. If Ocelli wins on Saturday, he would make history as the first maiden to capture the Preakness since Refund did so in 1888. 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: Sabres vs. Canadiens Game 4 Odds, Predictions, and Picks – May 12

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Montreal Canadiens will host the Buffalo Sabres tonight for Game 4 of their second-round NHL playoff series. Puck drop at the Bell Centre is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET, with live coverage on ESPN. Montreal holds a 2-1 series lead after defeating Buffalo 6-2 on Sunday. DraftKings has the Canadiens as a -142 home favorite, with a total set at 6.5 goals. The moneyline handle and ticket sales show 56% and 60% support for Montreal, respectively. Best Bet: Sabres vs. Canadiens (Montreal -142) In Game 3, Montreal dominated, sending 36 shots on Buffalo goalie Alex Lyon in front of an energetic home crowd at the Bell Centre. The Canadiens continue to wait for significant contributions from Cole Caufield, who led the team with 51 goals during the regular season. This poses a serious challenge for Buffalo, which aims to split the games away from home tonight. Since losing Game 1 in Buffalo, Montreal has outscored opponents 11-3 over the last two games. The team secured its first consecutive playoff wins of the postseason. Goaltender Jakub Dobes has been outstanding in recent games, recording a combined 54 saves. Expect Nick Suzuki (shown above) to extend his point streak to five games, helping Montreal take a 3-1 series lead. Beyond the moneyline, consider a modest wager on Montreal -1.5 goals on the puckline at +170. Best Player Prop for Montreal Canadiens Cole Caufield OVER 0.5 Goals (+160) As noted, Caufield has been quiet this postseason, recording only two goals and six points across 10 games. However, the duo factor benefits his chances, along with Suzuki’s playmaking skills. Both players skate on Montreal’s top line and power play, positioning Caufield for high-danger opportunities. He finished second in the NHL in goals during the regular season, behind only Nathan MacKinnon. Best Player Prop for Buffalo Sabres Alex Tuch OVER 0.5 Points (-120) Like Caufield, Alex Tuch has struggled offensively against the Canadiens, failing to record a single point in the series. Tuch described Game 3 as his “worst defensive game” of the playoffs. He took accountability for it—now is the time for the veteran to elevate his performance against a Montreal squad focused on building a 3-1 series advantage. Despite limited production against the Canadiens, Tuch still leads the Sabres with four playoff goals. Look for a stronger effort from him tonight and expect him to contribute with either a goal or an assist. 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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Prosecutors: Russian Police Chief Accepted Bribes from Illegal Casinos

(AsiaGameHub) -   A Russian police chief accepted $29,000 in bribes from illegal casino operators, according to prosecutors in Samara. The Samara District Court ordered law enforcement to detain the suspect until July 4 ahead of a court hearing, as reported by the Russian news outlet Samarskaya Gazeta. The suspect, identified by the surname Korkin, serves as the deputy head of the Krasnoglinsky District Police Department within the Samara branch of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Prosecutors allege that operators of unlicensed casinos in the southwestern Russian city paid Korkin at least 2.15 million rubles in bribes. In exchange, Korkin reportedly agreed not to interfere with their illegal gambling operations and promised to redirect future criminal investigations against them. Prosecutors: Russian Police Chief Provided Advance Notice to Casino Operators Additionally, Korkin allegedly informed the operators that he would give them "advance notice" of upcoming police inspections. Prosecutors have indicted Korkin on charges related to the "illegal organization and conduct of gambling," as well as bribery "on an especially large scale." Central Samara, Russia. (Image: 007master [CC BY-SA 3.0]) Russian courts have intensified efforts to crack down on illegal casino operators in recent months, many of whom operate gambling services in major urban centers. Investigators note that these underground gambling establishments often employ advanced security measures to avoid detection. However, gambling addiction rates are increasing, prompting police to report a rise in related crimes. Moscow plans to address the issue by developing unified guidelines for diagnosing, treating, and preventing gambling addiction, as reported by the Russian media outlet RBC on May 7. The Ministry of Health announced that starting September 1, the government will offer free rehabilitation programs for individuals suffering from gambling addiction. These programs will be conducted at state-run drug treatment facilities and psychiatric clinics. New Addiction Guidelines Under Development Officials stated that the Serbsky National Medical Research Center of Psychiatry and Addiction, based in Moscow, will collaborate with the Russian Society of Psychiatrists to draft the guidelines. Currently, Russian medical professionals lack standardized recommendations for treating pathological gambling. Healthcare providers emphasize the urgent need for updated guidelines and resources. "In recent years, we have observed a sharp increase in the number of people developing gambling addictions," said Tatyana Klimenko, director of the National Scientific Center for Addiction. Experts interviewed by RBC highlighted that the most effective treatment approach remains psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy and participation in support groups modeled after Gamblers Anonymous. According to a recent report from the Russian media outlet RG, between 5% and 7% of Russian adults struggle with gambling addiction. Most affected individuals are male, aged between 18 and 35, officials noted. 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 PM Urges Gambling Regulator to Build Youth Protection ‘Safety Net’

(AsiaGameHub) -   South Korean Prime Minister Kim Min-seok has directed the nation’s gambling regulator to establish a “safety net” in response to an increase in youth gambling. Kim’s remarks came after the National Gambling Control Commission (NGCC), the country’s gambling regulator, appointed new board members, according to South Korean media outlet Newsis. The NGCC, which reports directly to the Prime Minister, oversees gaming operators and implements measures to combat gambling addiction. Kim urged the NGCC to develop new strategies to address the growing problem of gambling addiction among younger demographics. “The issue of youth gambling has become serious recently,” he stated. “Please dedicate all your efforts to prevention and the creation of a comprehensive safety net. We must ensure the stable development of our youth, who represent the future of our society.” South Korean Prime Minister Kim Min-seok (center). (Image: @newkms10/Facebook) South Korean Prime Minister: ‘A Gambling Quagmire’ The regulator comprises members from both public and private sectors, including government ministers, administrators, legal professionals, and representatives from the tourism industry. “The NGCC’s committee acts as a safeguard, preventing our society from descending into a gambling quagmire,” Kim commented. The Prime Minister’s statements followed research indicating a rise in youth gambling rates across South Korea. A senior lawmaker recently highlighted that the financial repercussions of youth gambling-related issues in South Korea have escalated to $1.4 billion. Despite Kim’s serious warnings, gambling presents a dual nature for the South Korean government, as several of the nation’s largest casino operators are state-owned. Revenue generated from gambling-related tourism is also experiencing significant growth. On the subtropical island province of Jeju alone, casinos generated a total of $436 million in the previous financial year. This figure represents a 41% increase compared to 2024. Jeju Casino Industry’s Revenue Boost Preliminary figures released earlier this month by the South Korean news agency Yonhap indicated that visitor numbers to Jeju casinos also increased by nearly 38%, reaching just under 100,000. The semitropical province of Jeju Island, South Korea. (Image: Hongbin) For the government, this translates into another substantial influx of funds through taxes and other levies. All casinos located in Jeju are mandated to contribute to the government-operated Jeju Tourism Promotion Fund. The amount of these contributions is determined by casino revenues. Consequently, the rise in visitor numbers and sales in FY2025 led Jeju casinos to contribute over $42 million to the fund, marking a 44% increase from FY2024. Casino revenues continue their upward trend. In the first quarter of FY2026, gaming revenues at the High1 integrated casino-resort reached 360 billion won ($244 million), a 4.5% year-on-year increase. High1 is managed by Kangwon Land, a company owned by the central government, with the South Korean national pension fund among its shareholders. Following his concerns regarding youth gambling, Kim encouraged the regulator to continue “exploring avenues to stimulate local economies.” He requested the body to assist in “enhancing public leisure experiences, attracting international tourists, and generating employment opportunities, all within a sound framework for the gambling industry.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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SBC Summit Americas to Launch Interactive Industry Masterclasses

(AsiaGameHub) -   From navigating prediction market regulations to securing startup funding, SBC Summit Americas 2026 is offering delegates a dynamic approach to addressing the region’s most pressing challenges through interactive masterclasses focused on active engagement. Scheduled for June 10–11 in Room 207 at the Broward County Convention Center, these sessions provide a more participatory alternative to the main conference agenda. Each masterclass will be guided by industry leaders, with attendees collaboratively tackling real-world issues alongside peers. Key topics will address major trends shaping the Americas in 2026, including the regulatory landscape around sweepstakes and prediction markets, strategies for startup investment, and responsible practices in influencer marketing. “This year’s educational program marks our most ambitious yet,” said Rasmus Sojmark, CEO and Founder of SBC. ““Education goes beyond passive listening—it involves asking tough questions, collaborating with peers facing similar obstacles, and applying theoretical knowledge in practical settings. That’s precisely what these masterclasses aim to deliver.” The masterclass titled “Prediction Markets: Cross-Border Legal Challenges and the Role of Gaming Regulation” will examine how prediction markets are categorized under legal, financial, and gaming frameworks. Experts—including Ian Thomas (Principal, Offit Kurman), Joshua Kirschner (Partner, Nelson Mullins), Sara Tait (SVP Head of Legal, Regulated Industries, Fanatics Gaming & Betting), and Bill Gantz (Partner, Duane Morris)—will assess whether existing regulations remain effective and highlight differences in enforcement across North and Latin America. The session will also cover legal risks associated with entering the prediction markets sector and strategies for maintaining compliance. As sweepstakes operators face increasing pressure, expansion into new territories presents both opportunity and complexity. The masterclass “Cross-Border & Outbound Sweepstakes Opportunities”, led by John K. Maloney (Owner and Principal, The Law Offices of John K. Maloney), Christian Tirabassi (Founder and Senior Partner, Ficom Leisure), Christian Rapani (Founding Partner, Rapani Law), Kevin Weber (Partner, Dickinson Wright), and Joerg Hofmann (Senior Partner, MELCHERS Law Firm), will guide participants through structuring compliant cross-border campaigns, managing legal and operational hurdles across jurisdictions, and developing effective localization strategies. The session “Betting on Influence: An Analysis of Sports Betting Influencers” will equip sportsbook operators with insights on implementing responsible and impactful influencer marketing. Led by Bryson Huey (Graduate Research Assistant, International Gaming Institute, UNLV) and Alan Feldman (Distinguished Fellow and Director, Strategic Initiatives, UNLV International Gaming Institute), the class will analyze real-world influencer content to uncover linguistic, psychological, and visual techniques that foster responsible audience engagement. Attendees will gain clarity on building compliant influencer strategies aligned with current consumer expectations. Additionally, two masterclasses will focus on investment acquisition for startups. “What Gets Funded and What Gets Bought: Inside the Minds of Investors and Operators” will present perspectives from both investors and operators, helping attendees understand decision-making drivers and refine business positioning. Meanwhile, “Fundraising 101: Win Your First Round” will use case studies to offer startups a hands-on roadmap for securing early-stage capital. SBC Summit Americas’ masterclasses are part of the event’s broader ‘Knowledge Vault’ initiative. Featuring 250 speakers from across the Americas and globally, the six-stage conference will explore leadership, sports betting and casinos, payments and technology, affiliate marketing, regulation, and player protection. Secure your Conference pass today for full access to the SBC Summit Americas ‘Knowledge Vault’—including workshops and post-event materials—as well as entry to the expo floor, all for just $399. Operators and affiliates may also be eligible for a complimentary VIP Pass. Operators can apply here, while affiliates can apply here. Explore all available ticket options for SBC Summit Americas here. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

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LaLiga Champions European Football’s Fight Against Match-Fixing Threats

(AsiaGameHub) -   LaLiga has commended the effectiveness of its newly established integrity unit in safeguarding Spain’s top-tier football league against match-fixing and broader criminal influences. A progress report was presented by LaLiga’s Director of Integrity, Iñaki Arbea, and Pedro Varas, Head of Integrity Projects, outlining the unit’s efforts to counter match-fixing threats and enhance collaboration with relevant authorities. How LaLiga monitors match-fixing In 2024, LaLiga launched a dedicated Integrity Unit as part of a new charter within the SIGMA coalition framework—a national network for sports integrity coordinated by Spain’s gambling regulator, the Dirección General de Ordenación del Juego (DGOJ). This initiative united Spain’s professional sports leagues, betting operators, police forces, and sports federations to address betting corruption and detect suspicious wagering activity. Two years after its creation, LaLiga asserts that its integrity unit is emerging as a model for European football leagues aiming to improve internal oversight and anti-corruption measures amid rising concerns over illegal betting markets and organized crime’s growing infiltration into sport. For the 2025/26 season, LaLiga confirmed it will monitor nearly 10,000 matches throughout the campaign, with 186 fixtures under live observation by integrity officers. These officials can immediately escalate any suspicious incidents to law enforcement and betting monitoring systems in real time. System change for Spanish integrity Highlighting the program’s achievements, Arbea noted that only six integrity alerts have been recorded during the current football season, all tied to non-professional competitions. The unit emphasized that no significant integrity issues have surfaced in Spain’s elite divisions, attributing this to heightened player awareness and more rigorous monitoring mechanisms. “Footballers in Spain possess a high level of awareness regarding sports corruption,” Arbea stated during the integrity briefing. The Integrity Unit functions around three core pillars: prevention, live monitoring, and investigations. Prevention activities include workshops and integrity briefings attended by over 3,700 individuals from First and Second Division clubs, as well as one-on-one sessions with players, captains, and coaches covering betting regulations, insider information risks, and potential sporting sanctions. Varas pointed out how player education has advanced considerably in recent years: “Players lacked the knowledge they now have, and they are now able to assess risk effectively.” Clarifying common misunderstandings among footballers about betting restrictions, Varas added: “They often ask me whether their grandfather can place a bet on football pools.” LaLiga continues to collaborate with the National Police through CENPIDA, Spain’s National Centre for Integrity in Sport and Betting, which investigates betting fraud and organized criminal involvement in sporting events. Officials stressed that suspicious betting alerts do not automatically indicate evidence of match-fixing, noting that unusual market behavior may stem from coordinated tipster activity or breaches of player betting rules rather than direct manipulation of game outcomes. Since 2018, LaLiga has reported only two major integrity cases in Spanish football: the Operation Oikos scandal and the recent investigation into yellow-card betting involving Kike Salas. The league also cautioned clubs and players that “third-party bonuses”—historical arrangements involving payments to other teams to influence results—remain strictly prohibited under Spanish sports law and could lead to severe sporting and financial penalties. “They’ve taken note and they’re no longer participating,” Varas remarked on the decline of such illicit bonus schemes. “They face substantial fines and even licence revocations.” Enhanced coordination in match-fixing alerts aligns with one of the main goals of the “Royal Decree on Gambling Environments”—the federal government’s ongoing initiative to reform Spain’s gambling sector for improved consumer protection. Concluding the briefing, Varas underscored that modern football’s financial structures have diminished incentives for manipulation: “Incentives based on television rights positions are highly significant in preventing such market distortions. There is now greater awareness, people are vigilant, and I believe it is unlikely any team would accept a bonus today.” 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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LaLiga Champions European Football’s Fight Against Match-Fixing

(AsiaGameHub) -   LaLiga has commended the achievements of its newly established integrity unit in safeguarding Spain’s top-tier football from match-fixing and related criminal threats. A progress report was presented by LaLiga's Director of Integrity, Iñaki Arbea, along with Pedro Varas, Head of Integrity Projects, outlining the unit’s efforts to counter match-fixing risks and enhance collaboration with relevant authorities. In 2024, LaLiga launched a dedicated Integrity Unit as part of a new initiative under the SIGMA coalition framework—a national integrity network spearheaded by Spain’s gambling regulator, the Dirección General de Ordenación del Juego (DGOJ). This coordinated effort brought together Spain’s professional sports leagues, betting operators, law enforcement agencies, and sports federations to address corruption in betting and detect suspicious wagering activity. Two years after its creation, LaLiga asserts that its integrity unit is emerging as a benchmark for European football leagues aiming to improve internal oversight and anti-corruption measures amid rising concerns about illegal betting and organised crime infiltration in sports. The league confirmed that nearly 10,000 matches will be monitored during the 2025/26 season, with 186 fixtures observed live by integrity officers who can immediately escalate any suspicious incidents to authorities and betting monitoring systems in real time. System change for Spanish integrity Arbea detailed the program’s advancements, noting that only six integrity alerts have been recorded during the current football season—all associated with non-professional competitions. The unit emphasized that no significant integrity issues have surfaced within Spain’s elite divisions, attributing this to increased player awareness and more robust monitoring mechanisms. “Footballers in Spain possess a high level of awareness regarding sports corruption,” Arbea stated during the integrity briefing. The Integrity Unit operates around three central pillars: prevention, live monitoring, and investigations. Prevention initiatives include workshops and integrity briefings attended by over 3,700 participants across First and Second Division clubs, as well as individual sessions with players, captains, and coaches covering betting regulations, insider information, and potential sporting sanctions. Varas highlighted how player education has advanced significantly in recent years: “Players lacked the knowledge they now have, and they are currently assessing risks more effectively.” Responding to common questions from footballers about betting restrictions, Varas explained: “They often ask me whether their grandfather can place a bet on the football pools.” LaLiga continues to collaborate with Spain’s National Police through CENPIDA, the National Centre for Integrity in Sport and Betting, created to investigate betting fraud and organised criminal activities linked to sporting events. Officials clarified that suspicious betting alerts do not necessarily indicate evidence of match-fixing, as irregular market behavior can also stem from coordinated tipster activities or violations of player betting rules rather than direct manipulation of game outcomes. Since 2018, LaLiga has reported only two major integrity cases in Spanish football: the Operation Oikos scandal and the recent yellow-card betting investigation involving Kike Salas. The league also warned clubs and players that “third-party bonuses”—historical practices involving payments to other teams to influence results—remain prohibited under Spanish sports law and may lead to severe sporting penalties and financial fines. “They’ve taken note and they’re no longer engaging in these arrangements,” Varas remarked on the decline of illicit bonus schemes. “They face substantial fines and risk having their licenses revoked.” Spain’s enhanced coordination in handling match-fixing alerts supports one of the main goals of the “Royal Decree on Gambling Environments”—the federal government’s ongoing drive to reform the gambling sector for improved consumer protection. Concluding the briefing, Varas stressed that modern football’s financial model has diminished incentives for manipulation: “Incentives tied to television rights are crucial in preventing such market abuses. There is greater awareness today, people are vigilant, and I believe it is highly unlikely that a team would accept a bonus.” 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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Indicted Israeli Air Force Officer Claims Everyone in the Unit Gambles on Prediction Markets

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Israeli Air Force (IAF) officer indicted for wagering on military actions at Polymarket has claimed that everyone in the force gambles on similar platforms. The officer made these allegations during his court appearance on Monday, following his indictment in February. He is accused of providing classified information about the timing of Israeli military operations to an accomplice, who then placed bets on Polymarket. In February, Israeli authorities confirmed that several military personnel had been arrested on suspicion of using confidential information to place bets on Polymarket. The Attorney General’s office subsequently decided to press criminal charges against two individuals: the officer now before the court and his civilian accomplice. Beyond asserting that gambling on prediction markets is widespread within the military, the officer’s defense team stated that he has made significant contributions to the security of the state. His lawyers also contend that the investigation was improperly conducted and resulted in security violations. “We are confident that once these facts are presented, the case will conclude very differently from how it began,” said the defense attorneys, Ran Cohen Rochverger and Naor Alon Sosnosky. Nevertheless, a judge denied the officer’s request for release under house arrest, and he remains in custody as the investigation continues. Serious Wrongful Acts Ignored Consequences, Says Judge The prosecution maintains that the officer’s willingness to sell information for financial gain put IAF pilots and military operations at risk. “This is not merely a ‘gambling story’ but a serious account of wrongful acts committed out of a pursuit of excitement and greed for profit, while completely disregarding their consequences and the most basic moral and ethical standards,” stated the presiding judge. According to the court, claims that betting on prediction markets is widespread in the military are irrelevant to this specific case; however, a separate inquiry will be launched to verify those allegations. Following the officer’s arrest, there have been renewed concerns about insider trading involving conflicts in the Middle East. A U.S. soldier was also arrested for using his position to bet on the capture of Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela. Accomplice Named as More Details Emerge Some details regarding the case were disclosed in March, including the alleged Polymarket account used to place the wagers. Last week, further information surfaced, notably identifying the officer’s accomplice as Omer Ziv. The officer’s identity has not been revealed due to potential security risks, according to the court. The pair reportedly met while employed at a gaming technology company. According to The Guardian, Ziv spent eight years working as an affiliate marketing manager in the online gambling industry. Prosecutors assert that Ziv first became interested in the market question—“Will Israel conduct military action against Iran before July?”—on Polymarket back in June of last year. He then brought the opportunity to the attention of the officer, and they allegedly agreed that the officer would share confidential intelligence about impending military actions, while Ziv would use his own funds to place bets across multiple newly created Polymarket accounts. Keep Quiet, ‘So We Don’t Go To Jail’ On June 12, prosecutors claim the officer was briefed on Operation Roaring Lion, an Israeli military strike against Iran, and shared those details with Ziv via WhatsApp. Ziv is accused of passing this information along to others. In a group chat message, he reportedly informed five friends about the attack but warned them to keep quiet “so we don’t go to jail.” While the specifics of the officer’s role in the military and his involvement in the operation remain subject to a court-imposed gag order, he is described as a senior-ranking official. After the June wagers, the duo allegedly reconnected in September to place bets on Israeli strikes targeting Yemen. Then, in January of this year, the officer sent messages to Ziv indicating that tensions were escalating and that strikes on Iran were imminent. Ziv again placed bets on these events at Polymarket, but his account was flagged online. Seven months ago, a possible IDF insider "ricosuave666" predicted the exact day Israel would strike Iran and won $154K.He is now back on Polymarket and started buying a massive position on another Israel strike on Iran by Jan 31. Account:https://t.co/gH1HSdQ16J pic.twitter.com/PQ2UDMsfFC— PredictFolio (@PredictFolio) January 6, 2026 Alarmed by the flagging, Ziv canceled his positions and changed his usernames, prosecutors allege. The pair allegedly deleted WhatsApp messages and erased photos, fearing detection by investigators, according to the indictment. Despite ongoing controversy over markets tied to conflict and military operations, Polymarket continues to promote wagering on wars. In response to high-profile cases of insider trading, U.S. lawmakers have called for stricter regulations for such markets, and several bills have been introduced to explicitly ban trading related to war and death. The Commodity Exchange Act (CEA) already empowers the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to suspend markets connected to war if they are deemed contrary to the public interest. The agency has also launched an investigation into the case involving the U.S. soldier who traded on the capture of Maduro but has not issued any public statements about the Israeli war-related markets. 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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Digitain aims to expand in Romania with major operator partnership

(AsiaGameHub) -   Digitain has expanded its presence in the Romanian market through a strategic partnership with local operator WINBET. WINBET Romania has launched Digitain’s affiliate platform, providing the operator with a flexible commission structure, advanced tracking capabilities, and unified visibility across its domestic operations. This collaboration also enables WINBET to strengthen its affiliate network by offering personalized performance insights and comprehensive metrics reporting. Mark Adonia, Chief Executive Officer of WINBET Romania, commented: “The implementation of Digitain’s Affiliate solution marks a significant milestone for WINBET Romania. It allows us to enhance our affiliate management tools, improve performance monitoring, and engage our partners more effectively. “We are eager to deepen our partnership with Digitain in various areas, broadening our service offerings and delivering greater value to both our players and affiliates.” In addition, WINBET.ro will soon incorporate Digitain’s sportsbook solution, allowing Romanian customers to access this expanded product range as the next phase of the partnership begins. Ani Mkrtchyan, Chief Sales Officer at Digitain, stated: “We are pleased to collaborate with WINBET Romania, introducing our affiliate platform and preparing to integrate our Sportsbook technology. “This partnership highlights how Digitain’s solutions help operators manage their affiliate networks more efficiently while enhancing the overall betting experience. “At Digitain, we remain dedicated to delivering innovative, scalable technologies that support our partners’ growth and enable meaningful engagement with their customer base—this initiative with WINBET Romania exemplifies our commitment.” 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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Affordability‑Check Adviser Loses Confidence in Productive Dialogue

(AsiaGameHub) -   The much-anticipated affordability checks in the UK have prompted Dr James Noyes to resign from the Gambling Act Review Evaluation Advisory Group in protest against the government, as reported by The Sun. Dr James Noyes Noyes was invited to join the Advisory Group by the National Centre for Social Research (NatCen) due to his expertise in gambling policy and his role as a Senior Fellow at the Social Market Foundation (SMF). The Advisory Group was established in collaboration with the Gambling Commission to offer technical guidance on the provisions outlined in the 2023 Gambling Act Review White Paper, which Noyes claims has been largely ignored. No consensus on affordability checks The tipping point was reached over the controversial affordability checks, which would require bettors flagged by an operator for substantial losses to provide proof of their financial stability, according to the government. Referred to by the Gambling Commission as Financial Risk Assessments (FRAs), these checks will be triggered once customers exceed a proposed monthly loss threshold of £150. The Gambling Commission asserts that the checks will be primarily frictionless, causing minimal disruption to affected users, with fewer than 3% of active accounts expected to be impacted. Alongside most betting industry stakeholders, Noyes has voiced strong criticism of the impending measures, arguing that insufficient evaluation has been conducted on the effectiveness of affordability checks. In a recent letter addressed to Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) Secretary Lisa Nandy, Noyes highlighted concerns about “growing reports of inconsistent data, unclear results, and unwarranted friction” within the pilot scheme. Despite this, Noyes maintains that he supports the affordability checks, provided they are implemented with proper due diligence and fulfill the promised frictionless approach. SBC News has contacted Noyes for further comment on his resignation from the Advisory Group. 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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Super Group celebrates global growth as Betway navigates UK tax challenges

(AsiaGameHub) -   Africa once again led Super Group’s performance in the first quarter of the year, though the parent company of Betway is also building momentum in Europe despite challenging regulatory and tax conditions on its home continent. Like countless other public and private gambling operators, this Guernsey-based, NYSE-listed gaming group is navigating difficult conditions across Europe, most notably a steep new iGaming tax rate in Betway’s key UK market. The company’s first-quarter financial results revealed total group revenue of $612 million (£452.3 million), an 18% year-over-year increase from the $517 million recorded in Q1 2025. Net profit and adjusted EBITDA also rose year-over-year by 31% to $86 million (compared to $59 million in Q1 2025) and 26% to $152 million (compared to $111 million) respectively. European revenue climbed 15% from $96 million to $113 million. The group’s Betway sportsbook and Spin casino brands operate across multiple European markets, including the UK, Ireland, Germany and Spain. In the UK, Super Group remains confident it can navigate the new 40% Remote Gaming Duty (RGD) tax and potentially gain market share. It is not the only operator with these goals. Entain, Flutter Entertainment and evoke have all shared similar outlooks, though the company’s Q1 results — which cover the period before the new RGD rate took effect on April 1 — indicate it has a strong position in Europe, where the UK is arguably its most critical market. That said, Europe is far from Super Group’s most important continent overall. Africa and the Americas — with Canada being the key market in the latter region — rank as the company’s two largest regional markets. Africa’s position as a top market comes as no surprise, as it has been Super Group’s primary growth engine across several quarters. In Q1 2026, African revenue hit $267 million, a 24% jump from the $201 million recorded in the same period the previous year, while Americas revenue rose 5% from $186 million to $195 million. This growth was achieved even after the group completely exited the U.S. market in July 2024, highlighting how important Ontario is to Super Group. The upcoming launch of a regulated multi-license market in Alberta later in 2026 could further boost Americas revenue. “Q1 2026 marked a record-breaking opening to the year for Super Group, with all-time highs for revenue, monthly active customers, deposit volumes, and wagering activity,” stated Neal Menashe, Chief Executive Officer of Super Group. “Our results underscore the effectiveness of our strategy, the strength of our brands, and the focus of our team. Africa turned in another strong quarter, while our International segment continued to build momentum.” As of now, 2026 has been a successful year for Super Group, at least from a financial perspective. Still, the company is not exempt from facing challenges, and this year it has encountered one in New Zealand. A lawsuit originally filed against SkyCity Entertainment Group over online casino operations was expanded last month to include Super Group and bet365. This has not dampened the company’s ambitions in New Zealand, though. This Pacific country plans to launch a regulated online casino market with 15 licensees on July 1, 2027. The Online Casino Bill has been passed by parliament and is now waiting for Royal Assent, which will open the door for interested companies to apply for licenses — Betway is among those planning to do so. Beyond New Zealand, Super Group is continuing efforts to bolster its brands’ management and public image. These efforts include leadership overhauls and marketing campaigns, such as the partnership announced earlier this year between Betway and Formula 1. “We also strengthened our leadership team through key hires, which reinforces our dedication to operational excellence and accelerated growth,” Menashe concluded. “With a highly stable casino business, strengthened sports trading capabilities ahead of the World Cup, and solid momentum across all regions, we are confident that Super Group is well positioned for the rest of 2026.” 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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BlackRock’s increased stake in Flutter Entertainment may signal closer London delisting

(AsiaGameHub) -   BlackRock, the world's biggest asset management firm, has increased its shareholding in Flutter Entertainment to 5.12%. This update comes just days after Flutter, which had a share price of £68 on the London Stock Exchange as of the time of writing, published its 2026 first-quarter results, which included confirmation that the company is evaluating its listing status on the London Stock Exchange. Since January 2024, the parent company of Paddy Power, Sky Bet, Betfair and FanDuel has held a dual listing, after it launched trading on the New York Stock Exchange. In May of that same year, it shifted its primary listing to the NYSE to capitalize on the expanding US market, while also recognizing the rising significance of FanDuel to its operations. With that move, it gave up its spot on London's prestigious FTSE 100 index. But now a full delisting from London appears to be a clear possibility, after Flutter stated as part of its Q1 results: “We are conducting a review of our ordinary shares listed on the London Stock Exchange. “The outcome of this review may lead to the delisting of Flutter’s ordinary shares from the LSE.” The scope of Flutter’s US operations The US is now by far Flutter's largest market, generating $1.76 billion in the most recent period, equal to roughly 41% of its total 2026 Q1 revenue. It has a number of high-profile transatlantic investors, including The Vanguard Group, US-based businessman Kenneth Dart and investment management company Capital Group. During a recent fireside discussion, Chief Executive Officer Peter Jackson reaffirmed the importance of the US market for Flutter. “When I look at the US market, I believe we are continuing to deliver very strong performance in the iGaming space,” he said. “I think that segment of our business will continue to grow, and we are extremely well positioned to leverage our existing scale there. “From a sports betting perspective, there were a small number of areas where we did not perform as well as expected last year. We have already identified those issues, acknowledged them, gotten on top of the problems, rolled out necessary adjustments, put our sports improvement plan into effect, and we are starting to see the benefits of those efforts come through now. “Investors naturally want to see us keep delivering strong results, but we remain the largest operator in the US, we are profitable, and we are determined to not only get the business back into a leading position, but also regain our momentum to prove that we can keep growing our market share and support the expansion of the whole sector.” Flutter expects to finish its review of its London listing within the current quarter, and confirmed that its NYSE listing will not be affected if the company decides to cancel its share listing in London. 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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2026 PGA Championship Betting Odds, Expert Predictions and Picks

(AsiaGameHub) -   The 2026 PGA Championship will be held at Aronimink Golf Course, located outside Philadelphia, starting on Thursday, and we have the latest odds, predictions, and picks for you. We’ll highlight the top contenders among favorites, sleeper picks, and longshots to watch this week. One of our selected players delivered a winning bet two weeks ago at the Cadillac Championship, which is one of the PGA Tour’s eight signature events. Related: PGA Championship Betting Guide: How to Bet Golf Futures, Props, Matchups & More PGA Championship Odds at DraftKings Here are the current odds for the top players to win the PGA Championship at DraftKings as of publication: Scottie Scheffler +380 Rory McIlroy +900 Jon Rahm +1375 Cameron Young +1600 Bryson DeChambeau +1850 Xander Schauffele +1950 Ludvig Aberg +1950 Matt Fitzpatrick +2250 Tommy Fleetwood +2600 Brooks Koepka +3600 Collin Morikawa +3800 Justin Rose +4600 Justin Thomas +4800 Russell Henley +4900 Patrick Cantlay +5200 Si Woo Kim +5700 Viktor Hovland +5800 Tyrrell Hatton +5800 Jordan Spieth +6200 Min Woo Lee +6300 Robert MacIntyre +6500 Sam Burns +6700 Adam Scott +6900 Rickie Fowler +7000 Nicolai Hojgaard +7000 Chris Gotterup +7400 Patrick Reed +8000 Hideki Matsuyama +8000 Kurt Kitayama +8600 J.J. Spaun +9200 Shane Lowry +9600 Maverick McNealy +9800 Akshay Bhatia +10000 Joaquin Niemann +10000 Jake Knapp +10000 Best Bet on Favorite to Win PGA Championship Cameron Young (+1600) Cameron Young is having his best season yet on the PGA Tour. He came through for us at the Cadillac Championship, where he won at +1275 odds. Young has secured six top-10 finishes in his last seven events and hasn’t finished outside the top 25 during that stretch. He claimed the most significant victory of his career at The Players Championship in March. Yesterday, he placed T-10 at the Truist Championship in Charlotte. Strong performances in key tour rankings reflect his impressive recent form: SG: Total (2nd) Scrambling (2nd) SG: Tee-to-Green (6th) SG: Off-the-Tee (6th) With odds of +1600, you’re getting solid value for backing the tour’s hottest player. Best Bet on Sleeper to Win PGA Championship J.J. Spaun (+9400) You’re receiving legitimate longshot odds with our sleeper pick this week. J.J. Spaun demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest level by winning last year’s U.S. Open. His backers enjoyed a substantial payout when he went off at +15000 (or 150-1) odds. Spaun started the season slowly but is now gaining momentum at the perfect time as the majors approach. He earned his most recent victory at the Valero Texas Open in early April. Spaun followed up with a T-5 finish at last week’s Truist Championship after placing T-14 at the Cadillac Championship—both signature events. These odds are simply too generous to pass up. Best Bet on Longshot to Win PGA Championship Alex Fitzpatrick (+155) This player has shown exceptional form in recent weeks. Alex Fitzpatrick has proven he belongs on the PGA Tour alongside his more recognized brother, Matt. The pair recently won the Zurich Classic two weeks ago, marking Alex’s first PGA Tour victory. Prior to that, he captured his first-ever DP World Tour title at the Indian Open. In his last two starts, Alex finished ninth at last week’s Cadillac Championship at Doral and fourth yesterday at the Truist Championship at Quail Hollow in Charlotte. He led by one stroke heading into the final round but fell short due to struggles with his putting. Nevertheless, his near-victory at a course known for hosting major championships positions him well for this week’s PGA Championship. 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 Local Elections Intensify Amid Casino Allegations and Candidate Clashes

(AsiaGameHub) -   Allegations regarding casino visits are intensifying political friction as the South Korean elections approach next month. With local elections scheduled for June 3, primary contenders for the superintendency of Gwangju and South Jeolla Province are engaged in a heated war of words, according to the South Korean publication Maeil Kyungjae. The dispute surfaced during an April 17 televised debate involving incumbent superintendent Kim Dae-jung and his primary opponents. During the broadcast, rival Go Du-gap claimed that Kim had been spotted “hanging around a gambling establishment.” Subsequently, reports began appearing in South Korean media suggesting that Kim had visited a casino while on an international business trip. Toward the end of that month, Kim sought to address the situation. He acknowledged visiting a casino but refuted accusations that he had participated in any gambling. “I did enter a casino located within my hotel […] while on an overseas business trip, but I did not gamble. […] I apologize for causing public concern through behavior that fell short of expectations. I will exercise greater caution in my future conduct,” he stated. Although Go has since withdrawn from the race, he appeared alongside fellow preliminary candidate Lee Jeong-seon at a joint press conference on May 7, as reported by the news outlet News1. At the conference, Lee challenged Kim to pledge his “immediate resignation” from the race should “any evidence of his gambling be verified.” Officials count ballot papers during a South Korean election. (Image: Choi Gwang-mo [CC BY-SA 4.0]) South Korean Elections: Gambling Controversies Escalate “The simple fact that [Kim] entered a casino while on an official business trip calls into question his moral standing as an educator,” Lee remarked. “The role of Superintendent of Education requires a superior level of ethical conduct,” he continued, noting that the trip was “financed by taxpayer funds.” Representatives for Kim dismissed the claims as a “smear campaign.” “The location Mr. Kim visited was a facility within the hotel where he was staying for his business trip,” a spokesperson for Kim’s team stated. “Labeling [Mr. Kim] a ‘gambler’ is highly defamatory.” “[Mr. Kim] has already issued an apology regarding this matter,” the representative added. “He feels a profound sense of moral accountability for even a brief visit to a hotel casino during a business trip.” Criminal Record Reports The Kim controversy is not the only gambling-related issue to surface ahead of the June 3 vote. In late April, the nation’s leading newspaper revealed that more than one-third of the nearly 7,000 preliminary candidates for local council positions possess criminal records. The report found that several of these individuals have prior convictions for habitual gambling. One sitting local government official is seeking re-election despite having previously served a three-year prison sentence for securities fraud and habitual gambling. 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.