DigiPlus Acquires Gaming Licences in South Africa’s Western Cape

DigiPlus Acquires Gaming Licences in South Africa’s Western Cape

(AsiaGameHub) - DigiPlus has officially entered the South African market following the acquisition of online gaming licences in the Western Cape. This regulatory approval provides the Philippines-based firm with a gateway into one of Africa's most significant regulated online gaming sectors, aligning with its broader international growth strategy. Key Highlights The Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board has granted DigiPlus three online gaming licences. The firm identifies South Africa as Africa's premier online gaming market, projecting revenues of $4.9 billion for 2025. Following its entry into Brazil, South Africa marks the second international territory for DigiPlus. DigiPlus Opens South Africa Path With Western Cape Approval DigiPlus Interactive Corp has secured three licences from the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board, establishing a foundation for its online gaming operations in South Africa. In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange on Thursday, the company confirmed that the approvals include a national manufacturer licence, a bookmaker licence, and a bookmaker premises licence. The company had previously indicated its intentions in late September, noting that it had submitted three online-related applications to the WCGRB. The Western Cape, home to the provincial capital of Cape Town, holds strategic importance beyond its borders. DigiPlus noted that the province represented approximately 31% of the nation's online gaming revenue in 2025, characterizing it as South Africa's largest online gaming market. The company further highlighted that the region is attractive to global operators due to its digital infrastructure and transparent regulatory framework. DigiPlus estimates the total South African gaming market to be worth $4.9 billion in 2025, making it a primary focus for the group's expansion beyond the Philippines. South Africa is positioned to be the company's second international market, following its venture into Brazil.The expansion into Brazil has faced challenges. After launching last year, DigiPlus suspended its gaming platform operations in mid-October, less than a month after the rollout. In its latest filing, the company stated its intention to resume full commercial operations in Brazil during the first half of 2026. Domestically, DigiPlus maintains a diverse digital gaming portfolio. The group manages BingoPlus, recognized as the first government-sanctioned online bingo platform in the Philippines, alongside the sports betting site ArenaPlus and the casual gaming platform GameZone. Additionally, a subsidiary operates various casino slot arcades throughout the country. The company is also pursuing a significant land-based investment. DigiPlus is currently acquiring $204.1 million (HKD1.60 billion) in convertible notes issued by International Entertainment Corp. This transaction would grant DigiPlus control over the New Coast Hotel Manila, a property currently undergoing redevelopment into an integrated resort in the Philippine capital. Recent financial performance has seen a decline. In March, DigiPlus reported that its fourth-quarter net income dropped 36% year-on-year to $41.9 million (PHP2.5 billion). Total revenue for the quarter ending December 31 reached $307.6 million (PHP17.3 billion), representing a 27% decrease compared to the same period in the previous year. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.
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Amusnet expands into Czech market via partnership with Paradise Casino Admiral

Amusnet expands into Czech market via partnership with Paradise Casino Admiral

(AsiaGameHub) - Amusnet has expanded its footprint in the Czech Republic by entering a new strategic alliance with Paradise Casino Admiral. Through this partnership, Paradise Casino Admiral has approved 122 Amusnet games and will initially introduce a curated set of 92. The selection encompasses popular titles like Shining Crown and Dice & Roll, alongside newer additions such as Cocktail Rush – Easter Edition. Jaroslav Staníček, Operations Manager at Paradise Casino Admiral, stated: “This collaboration with Amusnet enables us to provide our players with a broad selection of innovative, high-quality games that match current market trends. We are excited to diversify our game library and offer fresh experiences to our clientele.” This new deal represents Amusnet's second partnership in the Czech market, following its initial entry with Tipsport in May 2024. Amusnet has characterized the agreement as a significant move in its European expansion strategy, coming after the recent launch of its Jackpot Cards Plus island in Georgia with Casino Adjara in March. Michal Burgert, Account and Commercial Manager at Amusnet, remarked: “We are thrilled to provide our comprehensive game portfolio to a top-tier operator like Paradise Casino Admiral. Featuring a powerful blend of timeless classics and compelling new games, we believe this launch will achieve excellent outcomes and appeal strongly to Czech players.” A decade of iGaming evolution Amusnet is nearing its ten-year anniversary, and earlier this year, the company's Chief Technology Officer, Lazar Agatonovic, reflected on Amusnet's progress in an interview with iGaming Expert. “In the last ten years, Amusnet has transformed from a specialized content creator into a worldwide iGaming technology partner active in many regulated jurisdictions. Our foundational strategy was always to develop our own scalable technology to support lasting growth in a fiercely competitive industry governed by strict compliance,” he explained. Agatonovic further noted that Amusnet's current development priorities are centered on growing its organized game series, jackpot networks, promotional tools, and live casino and land-based segments. 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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Entain Welcomes ASA’s Reversal of Ladbrokes Advert Ruling

Entain Welcomes ASA’s Reversal of Ladbrokes Advert Ruling

(AsiaGameHub) - Entain has expressed its support for the decision by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) to overturn a previous ruling that found a Ladbrokes advertisement potentially had strong appeal to people under the age of 18 and violated the BCAP and CAP Code. ‘Ladbucks’, the operator’s in-game currency for free-to-play titles, was the focus of the Entain-owned brand’s advert, which was broadcast on TV on 17 December 2024 and on video-on-demand platforms on 23 December 2024 respectively. A voiceover featured in the advert said: “This is a Ladbuck, the new way to get rewarded at Ladbrokes, and these are some of the 100 million Ladbucks that will be dropping weekly. Collect them on our free-to-play games and choose rewards like free spins, free bets and more. “Over 100 million Ladbucks dropping every single week. Plus, you can even use them to play your favourite games for free in our Ladbucks arcade. Like Fishin Frenzy and Goldstrike. Start collecting at Ladbrokes.com.” Visuals of coins marked with the initials ‘Lb’ appeared in the advert, alongside on-screen text that read ‘100m LADBUCKS’, ‘FREE BETS’ and ‘FREE SPINS’. Last June, the ASA sided with two complaints filed against Ladbrokes over the advert, claiming that the name and design of Ladbucks could appeal to minors because they bore similarities to ‘V-bucks’, the in-game currency for Fortnite, and ‘Robux’ used in Roblox, given the large number of under-18s that play these video games. As a result, the regulator ruled the advert broke gambling advertising rules, ordering the operator not to run the advert again in its existing form, and to avoid including content in future adverts that holds strong appeal to under-18s or aligns with youth culture. However, in a recent update, the ASA has now reversed that earlier decision. A spokesperson for Entain told iGaming Expert: “We welcome the ASA’s decision to overturn its original ruling on Ladbucks advertising. “The independent review has recognised that this was a responsibly designed marketing that does not have a strong appeal to under-18-year-olds.” Image: WD Stock Photos/Shutterstock In its updated ruling, the ASA noted that while the Ladbucks tokens had some shared features with other in-game currencies, their poker-chip styling ‘primarily reflected long-established gambling industry conventions’, was clearly different from V-bucks and Robux in its use of bright colours, and was not used in a way that made references to specific video games. “We considered that although the name Ladbuck alongside the token’s imagery created some parallels with in-game currencies popular with under-18s, those similarities were not obvious enough to make the ads likely to be of strong appeal to under-18s,” the ASA stated. “Those similar features were generic and did not invite an obvious comparison with the tokens used in Fortnite and Roblox. Therefore, we concluded the ads were not likely to be of strong appeal to under-18s.” The revised ruling added that no further action is required from Entain in relation to the Ladbrokes advert. Looking for more stories of this nature? Visit the new SBC Media YouTube Channel, SBC’s dedicated home for all multimedia content, where our team takes an in-depth look at the biggest stories across the sports betting, iGaming, affiliate and payments industries. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.
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PAGCOR urges regulators to act amid global uncertainty

PAGCOR urges regulators to act amid global uncertainty

(AsiaGameHub) - The Asian gaming industry is facing significant pressure due to the ripple effects of Middle Eastern conflicts, prompting PAGCOR Chairman Alejandro Tengco to call for increased cooperation among regulatory bodies. With geopolitical instability driving up oil costs, the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) head cautioned that these difficulties are impacting various regions, including Macau, Singapore, and the United States. During the Manila After Dark event, organized by Inside Asian Gaming in the Philippines, Tengco noted that the international gaming market is currently grappling with the consequences of the oil crisis. “It is vital for us to unite, maintain open dialogues, and provide mutual industry support,” he remarked. “These are challenging times for all,” he stated. “Gaming sectors across the globe are being hit by the oil crisis, and even advanced markets like the US, Macau, and Singapore are feeling the strain.” He further mentioned that PAGCOR is adapting to a more difficult economic environment to maintain stability while keeping responsible gaming as a primary focus. “PAGCOR will make the necessary adjustments. We must stay current with global trends and ensure that player protection remains our top priority.” Global oil supplies have faced major interruptions since the conflict began in February, causing prices to jump from roughly $70 to as high as $118 per barrel. As of now, oil is trading at approximately $97 per barrel. This ongoing volatility is a major point of concern for the international gambling sector. Specifically, visitor arrivals—particularly in Southeast Asia—are expected to decline due to flight path changes and more expensive airfare resulting from high fuel prices. As inflation affects household budgets worldwide, consumers are likely to reduce spending on leisure activities like gambling to cover essential costs. Furthermore, increased supply chain expenses are driving up the production costs of gaming hardware, adding to the financial pressure on casino operators. While the Department of Tourism in the Philippines reported a 10% year-on-year rise in visitors to 1.82 million during the first quarter of 2026, the full consequences of the geopolitical situation are expected to manifest in the coming months. Operators remain cautious Regulators are not the only ones preparing for a downturn in the Asian market; Genting Singapore has also informed its investors that it is keeping a close eye on the situation. In a statement to shareholders, the group noted: “Management is currently assessing various direct and indirect consequences, such as potential changes in global travel patterns, operating costs, and the general economic outlook. “Because the situation is fluid and unpredictable, it is too early to determine the exact impact on the Group. “We will continue to track these events and react as needed. In the long term, our diverse resort portfolio, solid financial standing, and Singapore’s reputation as a secure, regulated hub will help us navigate these uncertainties.” Elsewhere, the Macau government has indicated it may subsidize travel from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport to encourage more visitors. While travel to Hong Kong—which has a similar subsidy program—has been affected by the conflict, flight schedules to Guangzhou have remained mostly stable. Regarding the new initiatives, Macau’s Secretary for Economy and Finance, Tai Kin Ip, stated: “The MSAR Government is committed to expanding its tourism offerings, hosting major events, upgrading infrastructure, and intensifying marketing efforts.” With the economic repercussions of the war expected to persist for years, Tengco reiterated that PAGCOR is ready to evolve its strategies to remain resilient in a changing global landscape. 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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iGP Embraces Optimove Partnership to Enhance Marketing and Player Engagement

iGP Embraces Optimove Partnership to Enhance Marketing and Player Engagement

(AsiaGameHub) - iGP has enhanced its marketing offerings by forming a new alliance with Optimove. This cooperation will enable iGP's partners to leverage Optimove's technology to bolster CRM marketing and player engagement by activating player data. Adi Dagan, Senior Director of Partnerships at Optimove, commented: “This partnership equips operators using iGP solutions with positionless marketing, providing richer insights into their players, the capacity to generate personalised assets, and the autonomy to engage and expand within a highly competitive environment.” iGP states that operators can feed real-time player data directly into Optimove’s segmentation, analytics, and marketing automation tools. This will allow them to launch campaigns, improve the personalisation of player experiences, and increase player value. iGP stressed that applying player data in this manner can help address the difficulties stemming from increasing acquisition costs and the fight for players' attention. Jovana Popovic Canaki, Chief Executive Officer of iGP, characterized the new alliance as reinforcing the core of iGP’s platform solution. This move aligns with the company's ongoing shift to focus exclusively on being a B2B technology provider. “Together we are enabling operators to activate their player data, personalise engagement at scale, and drive stronger long-term growth,” she added. Trading on honesty and integrity Last month, iGP’s Chief Marketing Officer, Michael Baker-Mosley, discussed with iGaming Expert the importance of platform providers like iGP establishing realistic expectations for clients to prevent 'over promising and underdelivering'. He said: “In reality, launching a new platform takes two to three months, which is a reasonable timeframe. However, some promise operators four weeks, and we are aware of deals we lost where the platform went live a year later. “Delivering truly powerful gaming experiences requires time. This is a frequent topic in B2B discussions, but less common in B2C. The product landscape is becoming more uniform, with operators now competing on the experience they offer, rather than the product itself.” “If every operator has the top 10 slots globally, the competition shifts to brand and experience. Achieving this successfully and entering a new market demands both time and investment.” 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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Rank reports growth in digital and retail sectors while navigating RGD headwinds

Rank reports growth in digital and retail sectors while navigating RGD headwinds

(AsiaGameHub) - Rank Group is confident in achieving its medium-term objective, having implemented measures to mitigate the impact of April’s remote gaming duty (RGD) increase to 40% in the UK market. The operator has enacted ‘significant savings in above-the-line marketing spend, supplier costs, and headcount reductions’ to lessen the effect of the remote gaming duty increase, while customer incentives and performance marketing spend have been safeguarded. Richard Harris, serving as Interim Chief Executive Officer following John O’Reilly's departure, commented: “Having implemented the actions required to mitigate much of the impact of higher RGD in our UK digital business, and with clear plans in place to drive sustainable revenue growth, the group is well placed to deliver the medium-term objective of generating at least £100m operating profit.” Rank reported in its third-quarter results for the three months ending 31 March 2026, that digital like-for-like (LFL) net gaming revenue (NGR) rose by 4% year-over-year (YoY) to £60.9m. Regionally, UK operations grew by 2% YoY, while international operations improved by 14% YoY following platform and customer proposition changes over the past year. Venues’ LFL NGR was up 6% YoY to £144.5m, resulting in group LFL NGR increasing by 5% YoY to £205.4m. Across venues, Grosvenor LFL NGR was up 5% YoY during the quarter, with growth expected to continue in Q4 despite uncertainty surrounding international travel. Gaming machines rose by 10% with ‘significant room for further improvement’ as more machines are optimised. Image: Rank Group Mecca venues LFL NGR increased by 5% YoY, while double-digit operating profit in 2026/27 has been boosted by the abolition of bingo duty. Enracha venues LFL NGR improved by 9% YoY following a 27% uptick from gaming machines. Harris added: “It was pleasing to see continued revenue growth across all businesses and strong profit conversion in Q3, despite a tough macroeconomic backdrop. The results demonstrate the resilience of the business, the strength of the customer proposition and the growth initiatives we have in place.” Looking ahead, Rank expects ‘further year-on-year revenue growth in Q4 and full-year LFL underlying operating profits are expected to be at least £68m’. This figure accounts for energy cost volatility as it is ‘not expected to have a material impact on profitability in 2025/26 or 2026/27’. Rank will publish its preliminary results for the full year on 13 August 2026. For more stories like this, explore the new SBC Media YouTube Channel, the central hub for all multimedia content from SBC, where our team provides in-depth analysis of major developments across the sports betting, iGaming, affiliate, and payments sectors. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.
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Investigating BonusPurchases and Their Impact on the Unregulated Black Market

Investigating BonusPurchases and Their Impact on the Unregulated Black Market

(AsiaGameHub) - One of the most contentious issues is how licensed online casino operators can effectively compete against the black market. The black market holds an advantage over regulated platforms not only due to its unethical advertising practices and lack of restrictions, allowing it to employ any strategy to attract players, but also through gameplay that increases volatility and offers players a quicker path to high-stakes gaming. A significant point of contention is the availability of BonusBuys on the unlicensed market. These were prohibited in the UK in 2019 by the Gambling Commission, which decreed that the mechanism encourages chasing losses and promotes riskier, unsafe gameplay. While the regulated market may choose to ignore BonusBuys and TurboSpins by keeping them off licensed platforms, these features serve as a crucial tool for the black market to entice slot players who are most in need of safer gambling frameworks and tools, which are often neglected in the unregulated space. The rise of high-volatility crash games, which have successfully infiltrated social media algorithms, demonstrates the black market's strategy of using intensified gameplay to boost engagement. Simon Vincze from CasinoGuru believes that while BonusBuys may not be the black market's strongest unique selling proposition, they undeniably offer an "extra experience." “It’s difficult to determine what proportion of players are particularly drawn to that, but many streamers schedule ‘bonus rounds’ sessions where they play one bonus round after another. They would not be doing that if they weren’t popular,” Vincze added. The Gambling Commission adopted a stringent stance on BonusBuys and TurboSpins, identifying them as a significant threat to the most vulnerable players by bypassing normal game structures and disrupting the balance in how players engage with slots and the pace of their play. Vincze emphasized his view that “there are always better approaches than blanket banning, as it might not be relevant for everyone, and those who desire will often find a way.” It remains to be seen whether this perspective will lead to BonusBuys being reintroduced into the regulated market in some form. The question is whether the regulated market can find a safe method for their introduction, or if doing so would blur the lines between regulated and unregulated markets to a degree that increases harm. Conversely, defeating the black market should not be an objective pursued at any cost; diluting the safety of the regulated market to combat the black market would be counterproductive. Regarding the possibility of alternative approaches, Vincze stated: “There is no simple answer to these questions, but for me, it lies in personalization and design. Current behavioral analyses can offer a fairly accurate estimate of whether someone is at risk. “We could make these features clearly visible to those who score lower, then restrict access to them, or even make them completely inaccessible to those in higher-risk groups.” Speaking at the Illegal Gambling Prevention Summit, DealMeOut Founder Jordan Lea cautioned that while he doesn't consider the ban on BonusBuys to be a flawed regulation, consumers still wish to use them and will find ways to circumvent existing frameworks to engage with the mechanic. Lea clarified that he does not endorse the regulation of BonusBuys but warned that their prohibition serves as an example of the careful consideration needed for regulatory decisions. Duncan Garvie, CEO of BetBlocker, also pointed out that when restrictions are placed on bonuses or BonusBuys, we must acknowledge that “a certain proportion of consumers will migrate to the black market because this is a priority for them, because we feel that this piece of regulation will better protect the larger body of consumers who won’t migrate to the black market over that.” Unlicensed operators, crypto crash games, and BonusBuys share a common element: their visibility is significantly amplified by influencers and streamers on platforms like Kick. Lea also highlighted the influence of streamers in promoting BonusBuys, noting that those with genuine audience connections and effective reach are actively promoting the most volatile aspects of games – mechanics that are not even legal in the UK market. Addressing the challenge of bringing streamers under regulatory oversight, Vincze acknowledged: “It’s difficult to make them obey something that cannot be enforced. “If it were another company besides Kick, I would suggest trying to regulate it through them, but they already have a reputation for not caring. Nonetheless, many streamers may not be fully aware that these features could be harmful, and proper education might steer their moral compass.” This raises the complex question of whether the promotion and availability of bonus buys can ever be truly thwarted, and if it's time they are reintegrated into the regulated sector under controlled conditions. In my view, embracing the most volatile forms of gambling, even if theoretically capable of being engaged with safely, promotes the most dangerous playing styles and would lower the standards of the regulated market to match that of the black market it frequently criticizes. Furthermore, the issue of education is critical. At a conference in Manchester focused on the black market, a significant concern was that in today's digital landscape, players can inadvertently end up in the unlicensed sector. Blurring the distinctions between regulated and unlicensed market gameplay further complicates matters and sets a dangerous precedent in the ongoing effort to combat the black market. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.
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How long can Macau sustain its gambling momentum amid tourism volatility?

How long can Macau sustain its gambling momentum amid tourism volatility?

(AsiaGameHub) - Despite global geopolitical tensions impacting tourism growth across Asia, Macau’s authorities have announced robust gaming earnings for the first quarter of 2026. To encourage more travelers, Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, the Director of the Macau Government Tourism Office, mentioned during the Macau International Travel Industry Expo that officials are looking into subsidizing travel expenses from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport to the city. While a comparable program is already available for those arriving via Hong Kong International Airport, Fernandes noted that the new proposal is being considered because the conflict in Iran has led to a decrease in flights from Europe and the Middle East to Hong Kong. Even with significant concerns regarding tourism in Asia's gambling hub, figures from the Financial Services Bureau indicate that MOP$25.8bn (£2.36bn) was collected in Q1 2026, representing a 15.9% rise over the previous year. The impact of gambling tourism is vital for the region, as gaming taxes made up nearly 90% of the special administrative region's MOP$28.7bn (£2.62bn) total revenue for the first quarter. These figures build on a positive trend from late 2025, when gaming earnings increased significantly during the year's final six months. The major gaming center in Asia recorded a total gross gaming revenue (GGR) of $30.8bn for the full year, a 9.1% increase from 2024 that surpassed the government's $29.9bn projection. According to the Macau Daily Times, Tai Kin Ip, Macau’s Secretary for Economy and Finance, stated at the expo that the MSAR Government intends to expand its tourism offerings, host major events, upgrade infrastructure, and enhance marketing efforts. Located roughly 150 kilometers from Macau, Guangzhou continues to receive flights from Europe despite the current geopolitical instability. The broader Asian gaming sector is closely tracking the effects of the Middle East conflict, which has caused increased volatility in international travel. Genting Singapore, which operates Resorts World Sentosa, informed shareholders this week that it is monitoring the situation, though it remains confident that its diverse business model and solid financial standing will ensure stability. The firm noted that management is currently analyzing various direct and indirect consequences, such as changes in global travel patterns and economic sentiment, adding that it is too early to determine the final impact on the group given the fluid situation. 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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LuckyCasino Goes Live in Spain

LuckyCasino Goes Live in Spain

(AsiaGameHub) - LCKY Group has expanded its operations into Spain with the launch of LuckyCasino, marking the group's second active brand in the nation alongside OneCasino. This initiative strengthens the group's focus on regulated markets and establishes Spain as a focal point for its long-term growth strategy. Having established a foothold in Sweden, LuckyCasino is now live for customers in Spain. According to LCKY Group, the brand debuts with a portfolio of over 2,000 games, featuring exclusive LuckyCasino titles, as well as payment methods and promotional offers customized for the Spanish audience. The group already maintained a significant presence in Spain via OneCasino. With the arrival of LuckyCasino, LCKY Group has broadened its footprint, securing an additional avenue into a market it considers vital for future expansion. Mark Schram, Managing Director of B2C Central & South Europe at LCKY Group, commented: “The entire team LuckyCasino is eager to demonstrate the blend of variety and innovation that has made our platform a massive success in other regions.“As Spain remains a crucial market for our future, we are thrilled to expand upon the success LCKY Group has already achieved with OneCasino, and we anticipate that our extensive content library will be highly attractive to Spanish players.” 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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Red Papaya Introduces Pirate-Themed Slot “Pirate’s Fight for Fortune” Featuring 20,000x Top Prize

Red Papaya Introduces Pirate-Themed Slot “Pirate’s Fight for Fortune” Featuring 20,000x Top Prize

(AsiaGameHub) - Red Papaya has expanded its game collection with the launch of the new pirate-themed slot, Pirate’s Fight for Fortune. This title features a 5x4 grid, 40 fixed paylines, a medium volatility profile, and a maximum win potential of 20,000 times the stake. The game is set in the Golden Age of Piracy, transporting players to a wrecked ship laden with cursed treasure, ancient maps, and purloined keys. Its core design focuses on complex bonus layers, collection mechanics, and the pursuit of jackpots, moving beyond a straightforward base game. A three-tiered bonus system, linked to Bronze, Silver, and Gold results, forms the centerpiece of the gameplay. The feature rounds are powered by a Hold & Win mechanic, where Pirate Coins contribute to color-coded treasure chests positioned above the reels. This persistent collection system is always visible, serving as a progress meter for unlocking the bonus games. An additional Collect feature in the base game adds excitement to every spin. Pirate Coins can appear on reels one through four, and when a Collect symbol lands on the fifth reel, their values are immediately collected. This Collect symbol may also include a multiplier ranging from 1x to 5x, which boosts the total value gathered during that spin. A Boost option is also available for players. According to Red Papaya, this feature increases the total bet by 50% and enhances the appearance rate of Silver and Gold Pirate Coins, while also improving the odds of triggering the bonus rounds.During the bonus rounds, special symbols introduce additional modifiers. The Captain Multiplier elevates the total multiplier value, and the First Mate Extra Spin increases the number of respins. These components are intended to prolong the bonus sessions. The feature game contains three fixed jackpots. The Mini jackpot awards 10x the bet, the Major pays 50x, and the Grand jackpot offers the top prize of 20,000x the stake. The game is optimized for play on both desktop and mobile devices. Red Papaya has confirmed an RTP of 96.37%, a hit frequency of 27.19%, medium volatility, and a betting range that spans from 0.20 to 12.50. Madelein Ozok, Head of Studio at Red Papaya, said:“For Pirate’s Fight for Fortune, our goal was to merge a timeless pirate adventure with an intricate, multi-layered bonus system. The premium artwork and immersive sound design also contribute to a compelling narrative that resonates with players. “By implementing a persistent collection system that heightens anticipation with each spin, and providing three unique bonus levels coupled with a massive 20,000x Grand Jackpot, we have developed a highly engaging game that is distinctive in any operator's portfolio.” 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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Sorare Launches New Referral System for Stellar Nights

Sorare Launches New Referral System for Stellar Nights

(AsiaGameHub) - Sorare has introduced a new referral program for Stellar Nights, providing a novel growth mechanism for the free-to-play aspect of Sorare 26. Rather than incentivizing basic registrations, Sorare now links rewards to the actual advancement of invited players within the set. Good to Know Sorare now rewards players for bringing friends into Stellar Nights. Rewards grow as referred players level up inside the set. Stellar Nights remains part of the free to play football offering in Sorare 26. INVITE YOUR FRIENDS ON STELLAR SET & GET REWARDED The Stellar Set referral system is LIVE Bring your friends in, help them level up, and stack rewards: Gold Wheel spins Stellar Essence Stellar Cards Up to 150 GemsDon’t miss out! — Sorare (@Sorare) April 13, 2026 Sorare Ties Rewards to Real Activity The new system is designed around user engagement, moving beyond simple player acquisition. Those who invite friends to Stellar Nights can earn Gold Wheel spins, Stellar Essence, Stellar Cards, and up to 150 Gems, but these are unlocked progressively as their referrals continue to play and increase their levels.This structure distinguishes the feature from previous referral offers. By using player progression as the key trigger, it is better suited to free-to-play users who might not make any purchases. Stellar Nights debuted in late March 2026 as the current football set within Sorare's Set mode. It was established as an additional game layer, featuring up to eight card variations and scoring bonuses based on card editions. Prize pools can hit $1,000 per set, and Stellar Nights also marked the first Sorare Set to incorporate a signed card. Entry is free, with players receiving starter cards and advancing through six tiers by constructing lineups and moving up leaderboards. The inclusion of Premier League clubs helps maintain the format's prominence during the final phase of the European football season. Stellar Essence is the core resource in this economy. Players spend it to unlock cards and continue their progression within the set. Gems function as a premium currency throughout the broader Sorare platform. Gold Wheel spins grant access to the Sorare Wheel, where players can win cards, Essence, and other in-game items. A Golden Spin with improved odds is awarded after every 10 regular spins. While Sorare has employed referral systems in the past, earlier iterations were more focused on purchasing activity. During the wider Sorare 26 season, new users who signed up via a referral link and purchased five cards from new card auctions were eligible for market credits. Stellar Nights adopts a different approach by incentivizing ongoing gameplay within the set instead of a single purchase. Sorare continues to operate its blockchain-based fantasy sports platform for football, NBA, and MLB. Cards are issued as NFTs on the Ethereum blockchain and are available in four scarcity tiers: Limited, Rare, Super Rare, and Unique. Platform-wide, users assemble five-player lineups based on real-world athlete performances and compete for cards, Essence, or cash prizes, depending on the specific game mode. 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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Illinois casino earnings rise 7.1% in March, reaching $183.1 million

Illinois casino earnings rise 7.1% in March, reaching $183.1 million

(AsiaGameHub) - Illinois commercial casinos generated $183.1 million in March, marking another strong month for the state’s early 2026 performance. The latest data shows widespread growth, with newer casino properties continuing to boost overall revenue while top-performing venues maintained their leading positions. Good to Know Illinois casino revenue totaled $183.1 million in March, marking a 7.1% year-over-year increase. Slot machines brought in $140.7 million, while table games contributed $42.4 million in revenue. Hollywood Casino Joliet saw the largest revenue surge, climbing 56%. Newer Casino Properties Continue to Fuel Revenue Growth Slot machines once again accounted for the majority of revenue, generating $140.7 million, a 6.6% year-over-year rise. Table games saw an even faster climb, jumping 9.1% to reach $42.4 million. March typically boosts casino foot traffic regardless, as NCAA Tournament betting interest, leisure travel, and seasonal visitor trends all draw more people through casino doors. Leading the market, Rivers Casino Des Plaines stayed well ahead of peers with $44.6 million in total revenue, split into $28.6 million from slots and $16 million from table games. Wind Creek Chicago Southland followed with $22 million in revenue. Hard Rock Casino Rockford posted $13.4 million, while Grand Victoria Casino totaled $13.2 million. Hollywood Casino Joliet stood out most notably. After transitioning to a fully land-based facility in August 2025, the property generated $12.4 million in March, a 56% year-over-year increase. Wind Creek Southland also built on its April 2025 resort opening, seeing revenue rise 30.6%. Walkers Bluff posted a 10.4% gain as well. Not every casino saw growth, however. Harrah’s Metropolis fell 11.8% to $4.8 million. Harrah’s Joliet dropped 8%, and Par A Dice Hotel Casino slipped 3.7%. Older properties have faced heightened pressure as newer and expanded venues continue to draw customers in Illinois’s increasingly crowded casino market. Illinois has rapidly expanded its casino capacity since the 2019 gambling expansion law opened the door for new casinos and property upgrades. March’s figures show these investments are still paying off. Illinois Gaming Board data covers only commercial casinos, and does not include sports betting or video gaming terminal revenue. 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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Tether Introduces Direct Self-Custody Wallet: tether.wallet

Tether Introduces Direct Self-Custody Wallet: tether.wallet

(AsiaGameHub) - Tether has introduced tether.wallet, a self-custodial solution that provides users with direct access to Bitcoin, stablecoins, and tokenized gold within a single platform. Key Highlights Tether has debuted a self-custodial wallet named tether.wallet. At launch, the application supports USD₮, USA₮, XAU₮, and Bitcoin. Transactions can be completed using simple handles instead of complex wallet addresses. Tether Expands Into Direct-to-Consumer Wallets Having established itself as the foundational infrastructure for the digital asset economy, Tether is now connecting directly with end users through tether.wallet. This new product is designed to simplify the storage, transfer, and payment of cryptocurrencies. The wallet allows for the management of USD₮, USA₮, XAU₮, and Bitcoin across multiple networks. Tether noted that users can cover transaction fees using the specific asset they are sending, resolving a major pain point in the crypto space. Furthermore, instead of utilizing long wallet strings, users can transfer funds via human-readable identifiers, such as name@tether.me. According to Tether, the application prioritizes user control. Private keys and recovery phrases remain with the owner, and transactions are signed locally on the device prior to being broadcast.Tether also emphasized its global impact during the launch. The firm stated that its technology is currently utilized by more than 570 million people worldwide, with tens of millions of new wallets being added every quarter. “Tether has achieved, without any doubts, the widest financial inclusion success story in the history of humanity,” said Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether. “With more than 570 million people already using Tether’s technology, the next step is making that digital infrastructure even more accessible and usable by the end users. The objective is to remove the complexity that has prevented broader adoption while preserving the properties that make the digital assets technology valuable. Users should be able to send value as easily as sending a message, without relying on intermediaries and without giving up control of their assets. tether.wallet is “the People’s Wallet” because it truly reflects the natural evolution of Tether’s role, from building the foundation of the digital asset economy to making it directly usable by anyone, ready for a future in which tens of billions of humans, machines, and trillions of AI agents will transact seamlessly at the speed of light.” tether.wallet is powered by Tether’s open-source Wallet Development Kit. At its release, it supports USD₮ and XAU₮ on Ethereum, Polygon, Plasma, and Arbitrum; USA₮ on Ethereum; and Bitcoin through both on-chain and Lightning Network options. Tether intends to integrate additional blockchains in the 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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Alien Legends Launches Alpha With NFT-Linked Battles

Alien Legends Launches Alpha With NFT-Linked Battles

(AsiaGameHub) - Alien Legends will launch its alpha phase on April 16, granting players access to a browser-based tactical combat game centered on NFT-linked battles, missions, and reward mechanisms. Good to Know Open Alpha starts on April 16. Players need five Alien Legends fighters plus one Alien Worlds crew NFT and one Alien Worlds arms NFT. Bug reports can earn part of a 1 million Shards pool. Alpha Launches With Rewards Already Active Alien Legends initiates public testing with core reward systems already enabled. Players can utilize TLM, Shards, and landowner incentives from the outset while navigating dungeons and arenas across a vast world map. The map layout features portals, taverns, arenas, and dungeon paths. Players recruit and oversee fighters, develop skills, and undertake daily, weekly, and monthly missions. Leaderboards also serve as a metric for performance, encouraging players to strive for higher rankings. Participation requires specific NFT ownership: at least five Alien Legends fighters, alongside one Alien Worlds crew NFT and one Alien Worlds arms NFT. Trial accounts are also permitted, though they are restricted to earning only 10% of the available rewards.Alien Legends utilizes this alpha phase to stress-test game systems prior to a reset. Upon the phase's conclusion, all progress will be wiped, followed by an external competition conducted through the Alien Worlds smart contract. Participants who submit valuable bug reports via Discord will be eligible to share in a pool of 1 million Shards after testing concludes. Strategy is crucial because fighters age and diminish in effectiveness over time, making roster management a key component of the gameplay loop. Legendary account holders also receive additional daily resources to aid their gameplay. “We’re excited to see how players interact with the Open Alpha and shape the game’s development.” 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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Criminal Group Attempts to Extort Kraken Exchange, Company Refuses to Comply

Criminal Group Attempts to Extort Kraken Exchange, Company Refuses to Comply

(AsiaGameHub) - Kraken reported that a criminal organization is attempting to extort the platform, though the company emphasized that its core infrastructure remains secure and customer assets were never in jeopardy. Key Details Kraken confirmed that no system compromise put user funds at risk. Approximately 2,000 accounts may have been accessed during two separate events. The exchange stated it will neither negotiate nor provide payment. Kraken Declines Extortion Demands Kraken stated that criminals threatened to leak footage of internal systems displaying user data unless the exchange complied with their ultimatums. Chief Security Officer Nick Percoco declared that the firm will not yield. “We are currently facing an extortion attempt by a criminal group threatening to publish videos of our internal platforms showing client information if we do not meet their demands. It is vital to highlight the most critical facts: our systems were never compromised; assets were never at risk; we will not pay these individuals; and we will never negotiate with bad actors.”Kraken noted that only a tiny fraction of its user base was affected. According to Percoco, roughly 2,000 client accounts, or 0.02% of all customers, were potentially viewed across both incidents. “In both cases, only a very small number of client accounts were potentially exposed—roughly 2,000 in total (0.02% of our users). Based on the intelligence gathered from both events and our extensive analysis, we believe there is sufficient evidence to identify and arrest those responsible.” The exchange traced the initial incident to February 2025 after receiving a tip about a video on a criminal forum that appeared to show access to customer support tools. The individual involved, identified by Kraken as a member of the support team, had their access revoked immediately, and impacted clients were notified. A second similar event occurred later and was handled by Kraken in the same fashion. Following those measures, the group behind the content allegedly issued extortion demands, threatening to leak the videos through social media and news organizations. Kraken stated it is now collaborating with federal law enforcement and industry partners across multiple jurisdictions. 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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Washington Seeks Complete Overview of Gambling-Related Funds in Sports

Washington Seeks Complete Overview of Gambling-Related Funds in Sports

(AsiaGameHub) - Senator Richard Blumenthal has set a May 1 deadline for every major U.S. sports league to provide details about their gambling partnerships. As Washington examines betting connections across sports more closely, the pressure now extends beyond sportsbooks to include prediction markets. Good to Know Blumenthal dispatched letters to the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, and NCAA. He is seeking specifics on sportsbook agreements, data contracts, advertising deals, and prediction market partnerships. The MLB, NHL, and MLS already have publicly known connections to prediction market operators. Senate Pressure Reaches Every Major League Blumenthal sent letters to the commissioners of the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, and NCAA, requiring a complete report of each organization’s relationship with the gambling industry by May 1, 2026. The scope extends far beyond sportsbook sponsorships; he also wants information on data agreements, advertising deals, prediction market partnerships, and any other commercial arrangements linked to wagering platforms. “Eight years ago, when the federal sports gambling ban—one that the leagues backed—was overturned, gambling began to seep into every part of sports,” he stated in relation to the letters. “This unchecked growth of sports gambling has led to increased addiction, risks to players, and even the potential corruption of the games themselves.” Since the Supreme Court lifted the federal sports betting ban in 2018, leagues have developed stronger business connections in areas like betting, media, data, and fan interaction. Now Congress is requesting documentation of these ties.Blumenthal has frequently targeted platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket, claiming they attempt to offer sports betting products while evading the state regulations that licensed sportsbooks must follow. His recent letters indicate he wants to understand the extent of sports leagues’ current partnerships with these companies. Several of these connections are already public knowledge. The MLB named Polymarket its Official Prediction Market in a three-year deal valued at up to $300 million. The NHL holds licensing agreements with both Polymarket and Kalshi. The MLS also has a marketing pact with Polymarket. The NBA hasn’t revealed any prediction market deals yet, though Commissioner Adam Silver has noted the league is exploring the sector. The NCAA differs from professional leagues. It has opposed gambling partnerships and strongly resisted prop bets related to college sports. NCAA leaders have also cautioned that sports event contracts on prediction platforms could compromise game integrity in college sports. Despite this, Kalshi has listed college sports markets, including tournament games. Blumenthal is positioning the disclosure as a foundation for more comprehensive federal action on gambling. Thus, the leagues’ responses might do more than just address a Senate letter—they could influence the upcoming debates over sports betting regulations, prediction markets, and the very definition of gambling. FAQ Which leagues received letters from Blumenthal? The NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, and NCAA each received a letter from Blumenthal. What is Blumenthal requesting from these leagues? He is asking for a detailed breakdown of their relationships with the gambling industry, including sportsbook agreements, advertising partnerships, data contracts, and prediction market connections. What is the deadline for responses? Leagues are required to submit their responses by May 1, 2026. Why are prediction markets included in this inquiry? Blumenthal claims that platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket attempt to offer sports betting products while bypassing the regulations that licensed sportsbooks are subject to. How does the NCAA differ from the other leagues? The NCAA has taken a stance against gambling partnerships and has warned about betting products linked to college sports—particularly prop bets and sports event contracts. 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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US Treasury Imposes Sanctions on Two Mexican Casinos Linked to Drug Cartel

US Treasury Imposes Sanctions on Two Mexican Casinos Linked to Drug Cartel

(AsiaGameHub) - U.S. authorities have targeted two Mexican casinos linked to Cartel del Noreste, expanding an existing sanctions campaign that has already hit the group’s leadership and affiliated networks to now include these gambling venues. Good to Know OFAC issued sanctions against Casino Centenario, Diamante Casino, and their operator CAMSA on April 14. Treasury confirmed one of the casinos functioned as a money laundering hub, drug stash house, and torture site. U.S. persons are now banned from most transactions with the entities, and a limited license for winding down existing operations is in place. Casinos Became Part of the Cartel Business The U.S. Treasury, via its Office of Foreign Assets Control, sanctioned Casino Centenario and Diamante Casino, both connected to Cartel del Noreste. Treasury also designated Comercializadora y Arrendadora de Mexico, S.A. de C.V., known as CAMSA, which operates both casino properties. One of the two casinos is located just two miles from the U.S. border. According to OFAC, Casino Centenario based in Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas was far more than just a money laundering front. Treasury stated CDN used the property to store fentanyl pills and cocaine, clean illicit proceeds through legitimate gambling activity, and use backrooms to torture and intimidate people the group sees as enemies. CDN members also visited the venue on a regular basis. Diamante Casino, located in Tampico, Tamaulipas, was also included in the sanctions action. The property operates the gambling website diamantecasino.com.mx, which ties the case not only to land-based gaming but also to online casino operations. This gives the sanctions action broader relevance for the entire industry. For regulators, compliance teams, gaming operators, and payment providers, the case illustrates how quickly casino operations can become tied to sanctions risk, anti-money laundering reviews, and cross-border enforcement. CDN, formerly known as Los Zetas, has operated for decades across Tamaulipas, Coahuila, and Nuevo León. Treasury has linked the group to fentanyl trafficking, as well as smuggling of methamphetamine, heroin, marijuana, and cocaine, plus human smuggling, kidnapping, extortion, and political corruption. In February 2025, the United States designated CDN as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. Prior to that, the group was already classified as a specially designated foreign narcotics trafficker and transnational criminal organization. Nuevo Laredo remains a central hub for CDN’s network. Controlling the area gives CDN influence over drug trafficking and human smuggling routes entering the United States through the busiest inland trade crossing on the southern border. Treasury says the group uses this position to extort businesses and shipments, while bribing politicians and journalists. Three individuals were designated alongside the casino entities. Eduardo Javier Islas Valdez, known as “Crosty,” allegedly oversees human smuggling operations in Nuevo Laredo and controls cash stash houses across the city. Juan Pablo Penilla Rodriguez, a defense attorney, allegedly acts as an intermediary for imprisoned CDN co-founder Miguel Angel Trevino Morales. Jesus Reymundo Ramos Vazquez, publicly known as Raymundo Ramos, allegedly runs disinformation operations for the cartel while posing as a human rights activist. The sanctions block all property and property interests of the named people and entities that fall within U.S. borders or are under the control of U.S. persons. Any entity owned 50% or more by a sanctioned person is also subject to the restrictions. OFAC also issued a general license to allow U.S. persons to wind down existing transactions involving CAMSA, Casino Centenario, and Diamante Casino. “Treasury will use all available tools to protect our nation from violent cartels that seek to inflict terror on innocent Americans,” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said. “Treasury will continue to target the diverse revenue streams that cartels depend on to keep their criminal operations running.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.
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Hong Kong Halts Launch of Legal Basketball Betting

Hong Kong Halts Launch of Legal Basketball Betting

(AsiaGameHub) - Hong Kong has halted the planned September start of its legal basketball betting operation. Authorities stated that the rapid expansion of cryptocurrency-based prediction markets necessitates a more thorough examination before any licensing can proceed. Good to Know Hong Kong has suspended the planned September launch of legal basketball betting. Officials pointed to growing uncertainty around crypto based prediction markets. No new date has been given for a rollout. Crypto Prediction Markets Change the Picture Hong Kong had passed legislative amendments last September to authorize basketball betting, aiming to draw activity away from the black market. Officials had connected that initiative to an illicit sector that produced an estimated HK$34 billion (US$4.3 billion) in 2023. The government has now reversed its position. Alice Mak, Hong Kong's Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, explained that the law's passage did not obligate the government to grant licenses according to a fixed timetable. “As a responsible government, we must make decisive decisions when protecting the public interest,” Mak said. “If we were to blindly issue a licence simply because a bill was passed last year while disregarding other external factors, that would be irresponsible.”Officials now seek additional time to evaluate prediction markets, platforms where users speculate on outcomes related to sports, financial indices, and even geopolitical events. The rise of platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket has led regulators in various jurisdictions to debate a key question: are event contracts genuinely financial instruments, or merely a form of gambling under a different label? In a Tuesday email, the government reported that prediction market trading volume surged in 2025, reaching a peak of US$64 billion, a 200% increase from the previous year. Officials stated that such significant growth demands a more in-depth analysis of the operational models of these platforms. The Hong Kong Jockey Club, which was anticipated to operate the betting scheme, was reportedly informed of the suspension on Monday evening, although senior management had prior knowledge, according to the South China Morning Post. The newspaper cited a “club insider” who questioned, “The prediction market has emerged for some time. Why wasn’t it foreseen earlier? … Was the decision based upon something beyond [the government’s] control?” This query has fueled broader discussion in local media. Some analysts have speculated that Hong Kong wished to avoid conflict with Beijing, which maintains strict control over gambling policies and has associated cross-border gambling with money laundering and other criminal activities. While Hong Kong, as a special administrative region of China, has autonomy in local policy, influence from the central government remains a significant factor.Adrian Pedro Ho, a member of the Legislative Council, supported the postponement, describing it as a prudent move given the continuous evolution of gambling-related technology. “Basketball betting has not launched yet,” he said. “There is no reason to introduce something new that could encourage and fuel illegal gambling activities.” No schedule has been provided for when legal basketball betting might commence. 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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DeepStack Championship Expands Presence at Venetian with $16M Guarantee

DeepStack Championship Expands Presence at Venetian with $16M Guarantee

(AsiaGameHub) - The Venetian Resort Las Vegas is set to expand its summer poker offerings for 2026. The DeepStack Championship Poker Series will span over two months, featuring 121 individual events and more than $16 million in total guaranteed prize money. Key Information The DeepStack Championship Poker Series is scheduled from May 18 to August 2. The 2026 calendar features 121 tournaments with guarantees exceeding $16 million. In 2025, the series recorded nearly 30,000 entries and awarded approximately $30 million in prizes. Venetian Expands Summer Tournament Lineup The Venetian is once again increasing the scope of its poker operations. Following a 116-event schedule last year, the resort will host 121 tournaments in 2026. This growth comes after a successful 2025 festival that saw nearly 30,000 participants and close to $30 million in payouts, marking another strong summer performance for the Las Vegas poker room. The schedule provides a blend of low- and mid-stakes buy-ins alongside high-profile events, designed to attract professional players, local regulars, seniors, and casual competitors, as well as participants for dedicated ladies' tournaments. The series maintains its established format, emphasizing deep starting stacks and extended blind levels to provide players with more time at the tables. Several key dates have been highlighted. A $1,100 No Limit Hold’em tournament with a $1 million guarantee is set for June 6–10, followed by a $1,100 Seniors No Limit Hold’em event with a $1 million guarantee from June 11–14. Later in June, a $1,600 Seniors No Limit Hold’em event will feature a $1.5 million guarantee. From June 30 to July 2, the $2,500 LIPS Ladies High Roller will offer a $150,000 guarantee. The MSPT also returns with two $1 million guaranteed events: a $1,100 No Limit Hold’em tournament from July 11–14 and a $1,600 No Limit Hold’em tournament from July 15–19. This diverse range of events has helped the DeepStack series become a prominent fixture on the summer poker circuit away from the Strip. While the Venetian hosts other series throughout the year, such as the DeepStack Extravaganza and DeepStack Showdown, the summer championship remains its premier event. The success of the 2025 series reinforced this status, with high-profile players like Patrick Leonard and Josh Reichard winning titles, demonstrating that the series appeals to elite professionals while remaining accessible to a broad field of players. The complete 2026 schedule is available for viewing 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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Seminole Brighton Bay Guests Win $121,453.23 in Jackpot

Seminole Brighton Bay Guests Win $121,453.23 in Jackpot

(AsiaGameHub) - On Sunday, April 12, a visitor to Seminole Brighton Bay Hotel & Casino hit a jackpot totaling $121,453.23. The winning spin occurred on a Dancing Drums slot machine, a product of Scientific Games, with a bet of $26.40. Seminole Brighton Bay offers a gaming floor spanning almost 38,000 square feet, equipped with 640 slot machines and 18 table games. Visitors have the option to play in a smoke-free environment or in the high-limit gaming area. 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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