Category: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) - Efforts to legalize online casinos in Maryland have lost momentum during the 2026 legislative session. A referendum bill from Senator Ron Watson was withdrawn, and the companion measure that would have set rules for Maryland’s online casinos failed to advance out of committee before Crossover Day. This leaves the state’s push to legalize online casino gaming in a vulnerable position as the session enters its final phase. Good to Know SB 761—the referendum bill tied to Maryland’s online casino legalization effort—was pulled by Senator Watson. SB 885, which would have established the framework for internet gaming and online bingo, remained in committee. The broader Maryland iGaming plan cannot proceed in its current form without voter approval via a referendum. The two-bill strategy was designed to work together, but that structure now appears to be the main reason the effort has stalled. SB 761 would have put a Maryland online casino referendum on the ballot, while SB 885 outlined how internet gaming and online bingo would be licensed and regulated. Once SB 761 was withdrawn, the path for SB 885 narrowed sharply because the regulatory bill depended on referendum approval. Timing also worked against the proposal. Maryland General Assembly records show both Senate bills were introduced in early February and heard on March 11. Yet SB 885 did not advance from committee before the March 23 Crossover Day deadline—a point in the session where bills that haven’t crossed chambers rarely recover. The Maryland General Assembly’s homepage on March 24 also noted the legislature was nearing sine die, leaving little room for a last-minute save. Opposition came from multiple angles. Delegate Wayne Hartman, who serves on the House Ways and Means Committee, made clear that support within Annapolis was weak. He said: “I feel pretty confident there’s not an appetite for it this year.”He also raised a longer-term concern about state finances. He said: “My concern is, really, next year, after the election, when our deficit continues to grow, what are we going to see to quench the thirst of the majority party here to spend money?” Casino interests also pushed back. Representatives from Ocean Downs Casino warned lawmakers that Maryland online gambling could harm tourism and put local jobs at risk. Worcester County Commissioners shared similar worries, arguing that internet casino play could draw spending away from in-person venues in the region. That argument has surfaced in other states too, where online casino bills often face resistance from retail operators worried about cannibalization—even as supporters say digital gaming can add tax revenue and keep play within a regulated market. For now, legal online casino gaming in Maryland remains out of reach. The state still has six commercial casinos, and Watson’s proposal would have let those operators join a regulated online casino market. But with the referendum bill gone and the implementation measure stuck in committee, online casinos in Maryland look unlikely in 2026 unless lawmakers revisit the idea in a new form later on. 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.

(AsiaGameHub) - Gamanza Group has solidified its presence in the Swiss online casino sector through a collaboration with Casino Locarno for the Casineo brand. This agreement positions Gamanza's technology as central to a new licensed online casino operation in Switzerland, slated to launch in March 2026. Key Information Casineo operates using Gamanza's comprehensive player account management platform, specifically developed for regulated markets. The brand serves as the online division of Stadtcasino Baden AG, the entity behind Casinò Locarno. Gamanza Engage is also part of the implementation, equipping Casineo with CRM and gamification functionalities within Swiss regulatory guidelines. Gamanza Strengthens Swiss Market Role with Casineo Casineo represents Casino Locarno's inaugural online casino venture under its land-based license, with Gamanza providing the complete underlying platform. This encompasses compliance tools, responsible gaming features, payment processing, data management, and front-end delivery across web and mobile. In a market like Switzerland, characterized by stringent regulations and high licensing standards, such a full-service infrastructure is essential. The partnership also offers insight into the direction of the Swiss market. Switzerland maintains a tightly controlled and closely monitored online casino framework, necessitating that operators entering digital channels adopt technology built from the outset around control, reporting, player protection, and local compliance. Gamanza's existing collaborations with other operators in the country likely contributed to Casino Locarno's decision to select a provider with expertise in highly regulated environments. Tero Vienonen, Managing Director of Gamanza Group, commented:“Casineo is precisely the type of operator for whom we developed our platform – an ambitious new brand entering the online casino arena in one of Europe’s most demanding regulatory markets. “Switzerland imposes an exceptionally high benchmark for compliance and operational precision, and our technology is engineered to meet that standard from day one. We are proud to support Casineo in launching with a seamless and fully compliant player experience.” Casineo leadership echoed this sentiment. Michael Boyschau, Director, Casineo, stated: “Switzerland is among the most challenging markets for launching an online operation. Gamanza provided us with the foundational platform and the regulatory confidence to execute it correctly, and the partnership throughout the process has been exactly what we required.”A vital element of the rollout is Gamanza Engage. This product enables Casineo to manage CRM, loyalty programs, and gamification without exceeding regulatory boundaries. For online casino operators in Switzerland, player retention cannot solely depend on aggressive bonus promotions, making compliant personalization increasingly crucial. Simon Pukl, Director of Product and Business Development at Gamanza Core, remarked: “Switzerland’s regulatory landscape establishes one of the highest standards for online operators, and we are proud to assist Casinò Locarno with a platform specifically designed for such environments. “Our proprietary PAM solution seamlessly integrates compliance, responsible gaming, payments, and front-end delivery into a single flexible platform, empowering Casineo to operate a scalable online business. We are pleased to support Casineo’s brand and product vision and anticipate a long-term partnership.” Nathalie Haspel, Head of Online Gaming at Casineo, noted that the CRM and gamification aspects will help the brand cultivate player relationships appropriately, stating: “Building genuine player relationships in a regulated market demands more than just promotions. Gamanza Engage provides us with the CRM and gamification tools to create personalized, compliant experiences that keep players engaged for the right reasons.” 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.

(AsiaGameHub) - A bipartisan group of US senators has introduced legislation aimed at prohibiting ‘casino-style games’ and sports-related contracts on prediction market platforms, according to various reports. The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) noted that the bill would apply to entities overseen by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), including prediction platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket. NBC News has also confirmed the bill's introduction to the US Senate. Senators Adam Schiff and John Curtis are co-sponsoring the measure, marking the first bipartisan Senate effort to regulate the prediction market sector. They contend that these markets should be managed at the state level. According to the WSJ, Schiff remarked: “The CFTC is currently authorizing and even encouraging the growth of these markets. Congress must act to shut down this loophole, which bypasses state consumer protections, infringes on tribal sovereignty, and generates no public tax revenue.” If enacted, the legislation would prevent prediction markets from hosting ‘casino-style games’ such as video poker, slots, blackjack, and bingo on their sites. Curtis added: “A significant number of young people in Utah are being introduced to addictive sports wagering and casino-style contracts that ought to be under state oversight, rather than federal authority.” A divisive industry topic Prediction markets show no signs of slowing down, quickly becoming a polarizing subject within the iGaming sector as sports betting and online casinos expand worldwide. While certain operators, including FanDuel and DraftKings, have incorporated this vertical into their business, other industry figures have been vocal in their criticism. Earlier this month, Entain CEO Stella David argued that prediction markets facilitate underage gambling in the US. She pointed out that many CFTC-regulated platforms allow users as young as 18, while most states set the legal gambling age at 21. David stated: “When individuals engage with sports prediction markets, the experience is identical to sports betting in form and function. There should be no confusion: it is sports betting. “In the US, the legal age is 21, yet 18 to 21-year-olds are accessing these markets, often in states where online sports betting is not even regulated.” Some US states are already taking legal action against these platforms. For example, a Nevada judge recently issued a 14-day injunction preventing Kalshi from offering sports event contracts in the state. Global reactions vary; New Zealand recently moved to ban such platforms, and a judge in Buenos Aires, Argentina, has prohibited Polymarket. Conversely, Liberia has established a regulatory framework to authorize prediction markets. Adam Greenblatt, CEO of BetMGM—the joint venture between Entain and MGM Resorts International—contends that prediction markets are currently operating illegally within the US. Greenblatt commented: “Our stance is firm and aligns with nearly 40 state attorneys general, our regulators, and tribal partners. Under current law, sports prediction markets are effectively illegal sports wagering. “Operators in this space are not required to provide the consumer protections that licensed sports betting companies do. They lack responsible gaming standards, self-reporting requirements for compliance issues, and obligations regarding whistleblowing or information sharing.” 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.

(AsiaGameHub) - bet365 has released its February leaderboard for top-performing games across various markets, offering a glimpse into which titles might gain traction in Alberta when the province launches its regulated iGaming market later this year. Although the exact launch date for regulated iGaming in Alberta remains uncertain, the market is expected to follow a similar framework to Ontario, where bet365 already operates. Each market uses an algorithm that considers game revenue, stakes, sessions, and engagement to evaluate the operator's monthly game performance, though popularity differs across regions. February saw significant movement in Ontario, with Games Global's Area Link Bank Boss surging 19 positions from the previous month to claim second place, which pushed the supplier's other title, Area Link Phoenix Firestorm, down to third. Nevertheless, the game failed to overtake Pragmatic Play's Buffalo King Megaways, which held its position as the top-performing title in the province. Image: bet365 Nationwide in Canada, Gameburger Studios' 12 Masks of Fire Drums leaped 34 spots in February to secure the top position, while Area Link Phoenix Firestorm rose two places from January to second, and Games Global's new entry Amazing Link Zeus Boost placed third. Image: bet365 In the UK, Inspired Gaming's Gold Cash Freespins took the number one position in February, climbing three spots from the prior month. Games Global's Area Link Phoenix Firestorm held onto second place, while Reel Time Gaming's Eye of Horus ranked third, gaining six positions from January. Image: bet365 In Brazil, Pragmatic Play's Gates of Olympus Super Scatter and Spribe's Aviator dominated their categories, finishing February at the summit of the market's overall game and crash game rankings, respectively. Image: bet365 Image: bet365 In the United States, IGT's Cash Eruption maintained its first-place position in Pennsylvania, while bet365 Pop-A-Shot LuckyTap remained the chart-topper in New Jersey thanks to player support. Image: bet365 Image: bet365 Returning to Europe, the newly entered Amazing Link Zeus Boost seized the top position in Spain, Play'n GO's Rich Wilde and the Tome of Madness continued its reign as the leading title in Greece for February, and Pragmatic's Big Bass Splash secured the number one spot in Germany. Image: bet365 Image: bet365 Image: bet365 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.

(AsiaGameHub) - The 2026 legislative session in Florida concluded without the passage of any bills targeting illegal gambling. While several proposals moved forward, with one even passing both chambers in differing versions, no legislation was enacted before the session adjourned on March 13. Good to Know SB 1580 came closest but died when the Senate did not take up House changes. HB 189 was the broad House proposal and never reached a final vote. Florida regulators keep the same enforcement tools they had before the session. For the second consecutive year, Florida's legislature did not approve measures that would have strengthened regulations concerning illegal gambling. As a result, illegal gambling arcades remain in a legal gray area, and sweepstakes platforms are not subject to new restrictions. SB 1580 Came Closest SB 1580 represented the most viable opportunity for reform. The Senate passed the bill unanimously in early March. Subsequently, the House made amendments and passed its own version on March 11. With just two days remaining, the Senate did not revisit the legislation. This bill would have established new criminal offenses for individuals who knowingly or recklessly participate in or profit from illegal gambling. It also aimed to extend liability to government employees involved in certifying, licensing, or hiding illegal gaming operations, increase penalties for gambling houses, and impose new restrictions on internet gambling. Another component proposed a Limited Slot Machine Surrender Program, granting operators immunity in exchange for turning in their machines.House Changes Added Friction Amendments made in the House contributed to its failure. One change would have permitted licensed gambling establishments to relocate up to 1,320 feet without losing their licenses. Additional concerns were raised that the wording could inadvertently affect veteran groups. These issues were left unresolved. HB 189 pursued a more comprehensive approach. The extensive, 100-plus-page bill aimed to reform multiple areas of Florida's gambling laws. Its provisions would have prohibited internet gambling and online sports betting not covered by the Seminole Tribe compact, increased penalties for operating or advertising gambling houses, created new violations for illegal gambling advertisements, and expanded the enforcement power of the Florida Gaming Control Commission. It also targeted broader aspects of the illegal gambling trade, such as transporting individuals for gambling purposes, making false claims about machine legality, and implementing harsher penalties for repeat offenders. Despite this, HB 189 stalled before a final House vote. Some of its elements were later incorporated into SB 1580, which intensified the disagreement between the chambers. Other related bills made little progress. SB 1164 and HB 591, which had similar objectives, failed to advance beyond initial committee hearings. SB 204, which emphasized regulatory clarity over new criminal penalties, moved through two Senate committees before also stalling.Illegal Arcades Stay in Play The proliferation of illegal gambling arcades throughout Florida was a primary motivator for lawmakers to address the issue. Many of these venues operate in a murky legal zone, often presenting themselves as amusement arcades or skill-based game businesses. Regulatory action has intensified; in 2025, the FGCC seized $14,474,336 and 6,725 illegal slot machines across the state, more than doubling the approximately $7 million seized the previous year. While sweepstakes casinos were not explicitly mentioned in the primary bills, provisions in HB 189 and HB 591 concerning internet gambling and dual-currency prize models could have applied to them. With the failure of both bills, these potential restrictions are not in effect. 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.

(AsiaGameHub) - Elon Musk has outlined plans for a chip production project involving Tesla and SpaceX. The proposed facility, named Terafab, would be constructed near Tesla's operations in Austin, with the aim of fulfilling internal demand for AI and robotics chips. Good to Know Musk noted that chip supply is not keeping up with demand from Tesla and SpaceX. The proposed Terafab site would be located near Tesla's headquarters and the Austin gigafactory. Musk did not provide a timeline for the project during the Austin event. Musk Wants Direct Control of Chip Supply Rather than relying on external semiconductor suppliers, Elon Musk suggests Tesla and SpaceX may need to develop their own solution. Speaking at an event in downtown Austin on Saturday night, Musk stated that current chip manufacturers are not producing quickly enough to meet the needs of artificial intelligence and robotics across his companies. “We either build the Terafab or we don’t have the chips, and we need the chips, so we build the Terafab.” A photo displayed during the event indicated the site would be situated close to Tesla's headquarters and the company's gigafactory in Austin. This location would place the project adjacent to one of Tesla's primary manufacturing centers, while also linking it closely to broader work in AI, automation, and robotics.Musk described a very high target for output. He said the plan is to produce chips capable of supporting 100 to 200 gigawatts of computing power per year on Earth, along with a terawatt in space. He did not clarify when the project could start or how long construction and production setup might take. This absence of a timeline is significant because semiconductor manufacturing is one of the most challenging industrial sectors to execute. Chip fabrication requires extensive engineering expertise, lengthy build cycles, complex supply chains, and major capital investment. Musk is well-known for setting highly ambitious goals, and Bloomberg highlighted that he does not have a background in semiconductor manufacturing. Even so, the reasoning behind the proposal is easy to understand. Tesla is expanding further into AI and robotics, while SpaceX also requires more computing power for advanced systems. If external supply remains tight, an in-house or tightly controlled chip operation could give Musk greater certainty over one of the most critical components of that technology stack. 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.

(AsiaGameHub) - Maestro has introduced Mezzamine, a Bitcoin credit platform designed around Bitcoin mining economics. The offering targets institutional investors who wish to generate yield from idle BTC, while also providing mining firms with an additional avenue for obtaining capital. Good to Know Mezzamine initially launched via a collaboration with Sazmining. The platform aims to deliver an annual yield of approximately 8% to 9% in Bitcoin for investors. Its credit structure is secured by future mining rewards rather than traditional fiat-based debt models. Maestro Tries a Bitcoin Native Answer to Mining Finance Mezzamine is structured as a Bitcoin-denominated credit market, moving away from conventional dollar loans or new equity sales. This is significant as many miners receive income in Bitcoin yet take on debt in dollars. A sharp decline in Bitcoin's price can strain balance sheets and increase the risk of liquidation due to this currency mismatch. Maestro aims to reduce this friction. Through this new framework, institutional investors can allocate Bitcoin to credit facilities linked to anticipated mining production. Returns are derived from block rewards produced by additional hardware and increased hashrate. Maestro reports existing demand, noting that mining companies exploring alternative funding have expressed interest in financing exceeding 1,500 Bitcoin.Protection during bear markets is a key feature. The platform employs hedging mechanisms connected to both Bitcoin's price and mining operational expenses. Essentially, the objective is to prevent a scenario where dropping prices lead directly to margin calls or compulsory asset sales. The model is instead designed to mirror how mining operations genuinely generate revenue via block rewards. For institutional investors, this presents a distinct Bitcoin yield approach. Instead of keeping BTC inactive or lending within a fiat-centric system, they can deploy coins into a credit facility connected to mining and aim for returns in Bitcoin. Miners gain from access to funding that more closely aligns with the asset they generate. The inaugural program is already operational with mining services provider Sazmining. Maestro states the platform is intended for asset managers, family offices, corporate treasuries, and similar professional investors. This direction aligns with a wider trend in digital asset markets, where an increasing number of financial products are being developed natively within the Bitcoin ecosystem rather than relying on external fiat systems. A native Bitcoin credit market also provides the industry with an additional foundational component as institutional participation expands. Mining companies have traditionally relied on outside lenders, equipment financing, or equity sales. Solutions like Mezzamine indicate an alternative path, where capital, collateral, and yield all remain intrinsically linked to the economics of Bitcoin mining. 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.

(AsiaGameHub) - Hailey Welch has spoken out about the aftermath of the HAWK memecoin’s collapse, connecting the incident to months of public backlash, threats, and legal scrutiny surrounding the unsuccessful token launch. Good to Know HAWK was launched in December 2024 and temporarily hit a market capitalization exceeding $490 million. The token plummeted by over 91% the following day, sparking online allegations of a rug pull. A lawsuit filed by investors targeted the team and organizations behind the launch, though Welch was not included. Hailey Welch States HAWK Aftermath Left Her Traumatized Hailey Welch, commonly referred to online as the Hawk Tuah girl, shared that the collapse of HAWK and the subsequent public response took a significant personal toll. In an interview with Andrew Callaghan on Channel 5, Welch mentioned she was drawn into a crypto project she didn’t fully comprehend. “I got talked into doing something that I didn’t know anything about, really, but you’ve got to be really careful what you put your name on,” Welch told Andrew Callaghan of the Channel 5 YouTube channel on Friday. Welch stated she collaborated with an FBI investigation in 2025 and was exonerated of any misconduct. She added that she received none of the launch funds and lacked the technical expertise required to develop or manage the memecoin.Despite this, public outrage targeted her. Welch revealed she received death threats and remained out of public view for months as tensions escalated over the failed launch. “I was starting to get death threats and everything else. People telling me I owe them all this money, and I’m like, ‘I didn’t do this.’ I’m sitting here, and I’m the one getting hit for this. It’s rough. It’s one of those things where if you come out of the house, you put your head down.” HAWK launched in December 2024 and quickly reached a market cap of over $490 million within hours. By the next day, the token’s value had fallen to approximately $41 million—an over 91% collapse. This drop led to widespread rug pull claims across crypto social media platforms and kept the project in the spotlight across gaming, influencer, and digital asset news. Welch also noted that the actual losses incurred by retail investors were lower than many people believed during the backlash. Per her attorney, the total losses for individual investors amounted to around $200,000.Additionally, a lawsuit filed by investors in December 2024 alleged that the team and entities behind HAWK’s launch sold unregistered securities. Welch was not a defendant in the case. 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.

(AsiaGameHub) - PENN Entertainment intends to launch Hollywood Casino Aurora on June 24, pending regulatory clearance. This new land-based venue in Aurora will succeed the enduring riverboat establishment on the Fox River, introducing an expanded entertainment scope to the greater Chicago area. Good to Know Hollywood Casino Aurora is scheduled to take the place of the existing riverboat casino on the Fox River. The new facility will feature a hotel, a retail sportsbook, a spa, an event center, and upwards of 1,200 gaming positions. PENN indicates the location will hire approximately 700 employees, almost twice the size of the existing workforce in Aurora. PENN Gets Ready for a Larger Aurora Casino and Resort PENN is preparing to transition Aurora gaming operations to a freshly constructed facility near Interstate 88, opposite Chicago Premium Outlets, moving away from the outdated floating casino model. This shift is significant as land-based casinos typically offer operators greater capacity for accommodations, dining, entertainment, and year-round events compared to older riverboat configurations. The project is valued by PENN at $360 million. Upon its debut, Hollywood Casino Aurora will become the company's second newly constructed venue in the Chicagoland area, following the August 2025 opening of Hollywood Casino Joliet. This provides PENN with a modernized retail casino presence in a Midwest market where operators continue to depend significantly on in-person gaming, hospitality, and sportsbook visitors. “We are just months away from unveiling another premium entertainment hub in the greater Chicago region,” stated Jay Snowden, CEO and President of PENN Entertainment. “We are excited to build on the successful launch of Hollywood Casino Joliet last summer with another new land-based site, reinforcing our retail footprint in the Midwest and strengthening our community ties.”Gaming represents just one component of the offering. The upcoming Aurora facility will boast 226 hotel rooms, over 1,200 gaming positions, a retail sportsbook, a spa, an outdoor entertainment area, and a 12,000 square foot event center. Additionally, PENN anticipates the site will employ roughly 700 staff members, almost doubling the staffing numbers associated with current Aurora operations. Dining is also receiving significant focus. PENN announced that celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis will launch Sorella by Giada, an Italian California fusion eatery. Boulevard Food & Drink Hall will introduce concepts from Stephanie Izard and other collaborators, providing the casino with a blend of local favorites and new culinary choices. For regional casino operators, food and beverage offerings can help increase time spent on-site and expand the demographic beyond traditional gamblers. Rafael Verde, PENN Senior Vice President of Regional Operations, remarked: “These celebrated restaurateurs will offer our guests exceptional dining experiences at the new Hollywood Casino Aurora. Combined with our hotel, event center, spa, and other amenities, visitors will enjoy a lively atmosphere at this new local destination.”Meetings and live events form another key element of the strategy. PENN noted that the event center is already accepting reservations for conferences, weddings, and entertainment acts, with public event disclosures anticipated shortly. This strategy aligns with a comprehensive casino resort model where gaming, lodging, dining, sports betting, private functions, and live shows operate cohesively under a single roof. Regarding the project's backing, Gaming and Leisure Properties Inc. is projected to supply $225 million in financing at a 7.75% capitalization rate around the opening. The City of Aurora is providing $50 million, and PENN stated the remaining $21 million is expected to be finalized by the end of the year. Concurrently, the firm is collaborating with the Illinois Gaming Board to move operations from the existing riverboat Hollywood Casino Aurora to the new land-based location. FAQ When will Hollywood Casino Aurora open? PENN Entertainment has indicated that June 24 is the scheduled opening date, contingent on regulatory authorization. What is replacing the old Aurora casino? The existing riverboat casino on the Fox River will be succeeded by the new land-based Hollywood Casino Aurora. Where is the new property located? The location is situated near Interstate 88, directly across from Chicago Premium Outlets. What features will the new casino include? The venue will feature 226 hotel rooms, over 1,200 gaming positions, a retail sportsbook, a spa, an outdoor entertainment area, and a 12,000 square foot event center.How many jobs will the property support? PENN projects that the new Hollywood Casino Aurora will employ approximately 700 individuals. What dining options are planned? PENN confirmed that Sorella by Giada, led by Giada De Laurentiis, will launch at the venue, accompanied by Boulevard Food & Drink Hall concepts featuring Stephanie Izard and other partners. How is the project being financed? Gaming and Leisure Properties Inc. is set to contribute $225 million, the City of Aurora is adding $50 million, and the remaining $21 million is anticipated by year's end. 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.

(AsiaGameHub) - The European Court of Justice (CJEU) has made another ruling concerning how member state laws apply to recovering and compensating online gambling losses. A ruling by Cypriot Advocate General (AG) Nicholas Emiliou states that: "A sports betting operator providing services in a national market without the necessary license may be required to return the money wagered by players." The AG's opinion relates to a long-standing German dispute questioning Tipico Malta's online gambling license regarding loss recovery for the 2013-2020 period. A German customer attempted to reclaim losses from Tipico, which was operating in Germany with a license from the Malta Gambling Authority (MGA). At that time, German gambling regulations were in turmoil, as parliament hadn't finalized terms for launching the fourth interstate market (GlüNeuRStv). The AG considers that "under German law, the consumer's claims against Tipico seem fundamentally justified. However, Tipico argues in its defense that it couldn't secure a German license due to flaws in the licensing process." Per AG Emiliou, Tipico's lack of a German license makes the agreement between the operator and consumer 'invalid'. However, the AG maintains that member states can apply tort laws (covering harm or loss) regardless of Tipico's licensing status. This case intensifies pressure on Malta regarding its use of Bill 55 as a defense for gambling licenses used throughout Europe. However, in an earlier interview with Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ), Tipico CEO Axel Hefer stated the company wouldn't use the bill as a shield and doesn't need to. He said: "We're a Maltese-German firm with 1,500 staff at multiple major German sites. We clearly don't rely on Maltese law for protection. We've never used 'Bill 55." Germany has strongly criticized this potential operator protection, with its regulator GGL saying: "We believe this law likely conflicts with European decision-recognition requirements (Regulation (EU) 1215/2002). "However, GGL isn't responsible for the final evaluation of this matter. We've notified the federal states of our view and remain in touch with relevant authorities." Continued pressure The Tipico case comes after a recent CJEU AG ruling on the Wunner case (Austria v Malta), which confirmed that Member States can enforce their tort laws on gambling disputes, regardless of licenses issued in other EU jurisdictions. A key point in the Wunner Case was the CJEU rejecting Malta's "EU passporting" argument for gambling. The ruling clarified that, unlike financial services, a gambling license from one Member State doesn't automatically permit operations in another. Each country can establish its own requirements, as long as they're proportionate, non-discriminatory, and transparent. This maintains pressure as the unresolved legal conflict between Austria and Malta escalates, with Malta invoking Article 56A, widely known as Bill 55. Malta's courts activated this Article to dismiss prior CJEU opinions on the prolonged disputes between the two jurisdictions. The operator is using Article 56 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) as its case basis—the freedom to provide services across EU member states—which Maltese law protects through Article 56A. Instead of ignoring European Court of Justice rulings, Maltese courts are invoking public policy exceptions under the Brussels I Recast Regulation (EU) 1215/2012, strengthened domestically by Article 56A, to prevent enforcement of foreign civil judgments they claim threaten Malta's gaming regulatory system. 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.