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(AsiaGameHub) -   Revenue fell by 3.7 per cent compared to March 2025. US.- The Kansas Lottery has published its March casino gaming report. Revenue reached $37.6m, marking a 3.7 per cent decline year-over-year, though it rose from $35.5m in February. The report indicates Hollywood Casino was the market leader, generating $15.5m in revenue, a 0.4 per cent rise from March 2025. Kansas Star Casino came next with $14.6m, a 7 per cent decrease. Kansas Crossing Casino posted $3.8m, up 1.9 per cent, while Boot Hill Casino reported $3.75m, down 11.7 per cent. Cumulative revenue for the fiscal year through March 31 is $321.8m, representing a 3.8 per cent increase compared to the prior 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.

(AsiaGameHub) -   SOFTSWISS has wrapped up its involvement in SiGMA South America 2026, where non-executive director Rubens Barrichello and company specialists discussed Brazil’s regulated market growth and sports betting tactics. Press release.- SOFTSWISS concluded its attendance at the SiGMA South America Summit 2026 in São Paulo, Brazil. The firm shaped conversations around regulated market expansion through expert panels and industry dialogues, supported by a series of event-specific initiatives. The tech provider’s on-site activities featured Rubens Barrichello, non-executive director for Latin America at SOFTSWISS, who arrived at the expo hall in a Porsche racing car. The vehicle was later transformed into a racing simulator for visitors to the company’s booth. Barrichello also participated in the summit’s opening ceremony. In his address, he highlighted Brazil’s status as a fast-maturing betting market, where the next phase of growth hinges on advanced technology, clear regulation, and social responsibility. He stressed that this process requires collaboration between the government and tech companies. Rubens Barrichello, non-executive director for LatAm at SOFTSWISS, shares: “I appreciate how the SiGMA South America summit brings together two worlds I know well – racing and technology. The people I meet here understand that building a sustainable market in Brazil takes discipline, tech expertise, and, of course, teamwork. And this reminds me a lot of the racing environment, where teamwork and precision make all the difference.” On the main expo stage, SOFTSWISS hosted an exclusive expert segment: SOFTSWISS Track: Sports Betting Strategy, Integrity & Speed. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, regulators, legal experts, and industry professionals discussed the future of betting across Latin America. The programme opened with a fireside chat between Plínio Lemos Jorge, president of Brazil’s National Association of Games and Lotteries (ANJL), and Carla Dualib, Regional Business Development Manager at SOFTSWISS and Communication Director at ANJL. They explored the rapid growth of the Brazilian market and the accountability that comes with operating at scale. Carla Dualib, Regional Business Development Manager for Latin America at SOFTSWISS, comments: “A year ago, many of these conversations were still theoretical. Brazil’s market has moved past the point where general ideas are enough. What made these sessions valuable was the willingness to get specific – regulators, operators, and tech providers sharing what actually works on the ground. Honest dialogues like that really move the industry forward.” Beyond the conference stage, SOFTSWISS unveiled the second edition of its limited capsule collection, created in collaboration with Rubens Barrichello and iconic racing brand Sparco. Inspired by the Driven by Ambition concept, the capsule was designed by Brazilian Sportswear Designer Denis Romanello. It reflects a shared focus on performance and reliability across motorsport and technology. The summit concluded with the SOFTSWISS Racing Carnival, an exclusive karting event at the Kartódromo de Granja Viana. The tech provider’s partners joined Rubens Barrichello for demonstration races and competitive karting heats. This racing experience was accompanied by live samba performances, interactive activities, and networking in an informal setting. 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 company displayed its comprehensive betting portfolio during the event. Press release.- DATA.BET has concluded its successful appearance at SiGMA South America 2026, a premier iGaming gathering in Latin America. Returning to the exhibition floor with an expanded booth and a broader product range, the company signaled a strategic evolution from its former identity as an esports-specialist to a provider of a full-spectrum betting ecosystem. The team showcased an all-encompassing sportsbook solution featuring sports, esports, and virtual games, designed specifically for casino and betting operators aiming to launch or grow within the regulated market. With GLI certification secured for Brazil, the company enables operators to bypass further technical assessments, significantly accelerating their time-to-market. Visitors to the booth explored several recent enhancements, such as updated Statistical Widgets and the esports Timeline Widget. The company also introduced its One-Click Bet and Early Payout features, while providing a sneak peek at an upcoming, unannounced tool designed to elevate player engagement. The booth maintained the high-energy atmosphere associated with DATA.BET. The presence of cosplayers portraying Jinx and Ahri—beloved characters from League of Legends—attracted steady interest, while a kinetic screen provided an interactive visual experience that maintained high levels of visitor engagement. Natalie Loshatynska, Head of PR and Marketing at DATA.BET, commented: “Returning to BiS SiGMA South America this year served as a logical milestone for us. Our previous appearance saw DATA.BET as an esports-centric firm. This time, we returned with a complete sportsbook offering, bolstered by expanded coverage, local certification, and tools tailored for the regional market. These developments highlight our dedication to becoming a top-tier supplier in Brazil, with deep expertise across esports, sports, and virtual sports.” The company added: “DATA.BET remains committed to investing in its technology and market coverage to assist partners focused on one of the region’s most rapidly expanding regulated betting markets.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   The award was presented to the companies during a ceremony in São Paulo that was part of the SiGMA South America event. Press release.- EGT, together with EGT Digital, has been honored for its joint video lottery product for Brazil at the esteemed BiS Awards 2026, recognizing excellence in the nation's fast-expanding gaming and betting sector. The accolade in the Best VLT Solution category was awarded at a formal ceremony on April 7 in São Paulo, which took place within the SiGMA South America event. This recognition celebrates the successful launch of VLT terminals in the regulated state of Paraíba, where their first major installation occurred at the start of the year, attracting significant player engagement and showing remarkable performance from the outset. Furthermore, EGT's VLT product has received approval through a Proof of Concept (PoC) with the Rio de Janeiro State Lottery and will also be launched for players in that state in the near future. The omnichannel solution, a joint offering from EGT and EGT Digital, delivers a comprehensive Video Lottery Terminal (VLT) ecosystem that includes physical terminals, a technological platform, and an extensive collection of games. Built to international standards, the solution has been customized to align with the specific needs of the Brazilian market and its regulations. Celina Guedes, regional director Brazil at EGT, stated: "We are honored to be recognized by the BiS Awards, a competition that sets the benchmark for excellence in the industry. Our full omnichannel VLT solution is engineered to succeed across various market segments and is poised to realize its significant potential soon. This award confirms our capacity to meet the rising expectations for providers and to establish new, higher benchmarks within the highly competitive gaming landscape of Brazil and the wider Latin American region." 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 casinos reported an aggregate revenue (AGR) of $112.3 million. US.- According to the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB), the three commercial casinos in Detroit—MGM Grand Detroit, MotorCity Casino, and Hollywood Casino at Greektown—had a combined AGR of $112.3 million for March. This figure represents a 4.4 percent decline compared to the same month last year but an increase from the $100.6 million generated in February. From the total AGR, slot machines and table games contributed $111.5 million, which is 4.5 percent lower than in March 2025 but 11.5 percent higher than the previous month. MGM Grand Detroit Casino held a 47 percent market share, earning $51.9 million, a 3.5 percent year-over-year decrease. MotorCity Casino secured a 31 percent market share with revenues of $34.9 million, down 2.7 percent, while Hollywood Casino at Greektown accounted for 22 percent with $24.7 million, an 8.9 percent decline. The casinos paid $9 million in state gaming taxes, down from $9.5 million paid in March 2025. They also reported making payments of $13.3 million to the City of Detroit for wagering taxes and development agreements. Retail sports betting handle reached $8.95 million, with total gross receipts of $826,098. Qualified adjusted gross receipts (QAGR) amounted to $810,424, showing a 41.9 percent increase year-over-year and a 44.5 percent rise from February 2026. State taxes paid on this activity were $30,634, and $37,442 in wagering taxes was submitted to the City of Detroit. 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) -   In a report released this week, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has urged the government to implement a levy on gambling earnings and reevaluate the nation’s stringent betting advertising rules. The document, drafted by outgoing FIGC president Gabriele Gravina for the Chamber of Deputies’ VII Committee on Culture, Science, and Education, was originally scheduled to be presented at a parliamentary hearing—an event that was eventually called off after Gravina announced his resignation. Gravina will continue in an interim capacity until the federation’s special elective assembly takes place in June. Spanning 11 pages, the report outlines the structural challenges facing Italian football. This follows Italy’s failure to secure a spot in the FIFA World Cup for the third tournament in a row. Gambling Levy for Reinvestment in the Sport A key proposal in the report is the introduction of a levy on football betting-related gambling turnover or winnings, with the funds to be directly reinvested back into the sport. Gravina contended that this measure—already in place in multiple European nations—would only require translating an existing EU directive into Italian legislation. The outgoing FIGC president put forward this levy as a partial fix for the growth and development of Italian football. Gravina’s report specified that the generated revenues should be earmarked for particular uses, such as youth development programs, stadium infrastructure improvements, and initiatives aimed at tackling problem gambling. The report frames this initiative as a vital financial foundation, designed to curb the ongoing underfunding of Italian football’s grassroots level and facilities. This proposal arrives amid major structural shifts in Italy’s gambling market. In November 2025, the country’s market—once boasting over 400 active domains—was condensed to just 52 licenses, each linked to a unique online identity. Italy’s iGaming reform replaces a fragmented landscape with a strictly regulated oligopoly of established, powerful operators. This move toward an "oligopoly-like" market structure may lead to revenue concentration among a smaller number of operators. Even so, Italy remains one of Europe’s biggest online gambling markets in terms of turnover and tax revenue. As of November last year, license fees contributed around €364 million ($424 million) to the state. Restrictions on Betting Advertising The report also called for a review of the 2018 ban on betting operators’ advertising and sponsorships, which was first introduced via the "Decreto Dignità." Gravina criticized the ban as "largely ineffective" at curbing underage and illegal gambling, citing findings from a 2022 Parliamentary Commission of Inquiry report that revealed these areas continued to grow despite the advertising restrictions. Additionally, the ban has led to a substantial drop in sponsorship revenue for clubs, putting Italian football at a disadvantage relative to other leading European leagues. Gambling firms still hold a prominent position as club shirt sponsors, accounting for 24% of shirt sponsorships in the 2025-26 season, per a 2026 UEFA report. This is set to decline, however, as English Premier League clubs have agreed to a voluntary ban on front-of-shirt gambling sponsorships starting from the 2026-27 season. While sleeve sponsorships will still be permitted, the Premier League anticipates an £80 million revenue gap as a result of the ban. Italy’s Past Efforts The 2018 comprehensive advertising ban was a response to national worries about gambling addiction and the exposure of minors to gambling promotions. The report mentioned previous temporary government programs that directed gambling-related revenues into sports initiatives, but pointed out that these were never extended. The FIGC president stressed that Italian professional football faces ongoing financial pressure, with clubs collectively incurring annual losses of over €730 million and holding around €5.5 billion in debt. Investments in youth academies and stadium upgrades trail those of other European countries. If the government approves the levy proposal, Italian football could secure a more stable source of funding. Kathryn EvansKathryn reports on concise breaking news, with a main focus on EMEA and US legislative matters. She is a proud North Walian, fluent in Welsh, and a lifelong Wrexham FC supporter—long before Hollywood took an interest. 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) -   Global betting firm 1xBet has confirmed its attendance at the Search iGaming Conference in Limassol on April 16, where it plans to discuss various partnership models and digital marketing strategies. Global betting company 1xBet is set to participate in the Search iGaming Conference, scheduled for April 16 in Limassol. Recognized as a premier European platform for iGaming professionals focused on search traffic, SIC gathers experts in digital and affiliate marketing alongside leading brand representatives to foster new growth avenues and forge robust partnerships. The event will take place at The Warehouse by IT Quarter, a contemporary venue frequently used for industry-specific gatherings. This year, SIC anticipates bringing together over 1,200 professionals and more than 40 exhibitors, establishing itself as a crucial forum for exchanging knowledge, forging new business ties, and investigating potential collaborations. 1xBet sees its involvement as a chance to directly interact with the market, reinforce current relationships, and discover innovative approaches to business cooperation. The 1xBet team will be present at booth E4, designed to be a central point for effective networking, business discussions, and talks about collaboration within one of the sector's most vibrant areas. Throughout the conference, visitors can engage with company representatives to discuss current partnership structures, methods for boosting traffic conversion, and strategies for establishing successful collaborative frameworks in the evolving digital environment. The inviting and informal setting of the booth aims to encourage open conversations regarding future cooperative ventures. Attendees are encouraged to visit the 1xBet booth at SIC Cyprus 2026 to establish new business contacts and participate in meaningful discussions with the global brand's team. To arrange a meeting, please contact your 1xBet manager. 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 award-winning provider is making its content available to a leading casino brand. Press release.- TaDa Gaming has strengthened its position in Italy via a new partnership with StarCasinò, a top-tier platform under the global igaming leader Betsson. Since launching in the Italian market in 2024, TaDa Gaming has consistently grown its reputation for delivering immersive, high-engagement casino content, backed by its comprehensive set of gamification tools. These tools feature new products like Hot Hand and Highlights, as well as GiftCode and WIN CARD. This new deal grants StarCasinó's players in Italy instant entry to TaDa Gaming's certified and carefully localized game collection. This includes the well-known Fortune Gems series, the top European slot Jackpot Joker, and the fish-shooting game Mega Fishing. Established in 2012, Starcasinò.it is a key brand within the Betsson group and a major platform in Italy. Recognized as the Best Italian Online Casino and holding certifications from the Italian ADM and the German ITQF, StarCasinó has prioritized content collaborations to broaden its game library. The platform now provides over 6,000 casino products, such as slots, jackpot slots, blackjack, roulette, baccarat, video poker, and live dealer tables with Italian croupiers. TaDa Gaming marks StarCasinó's first venture into the fish-shooting genre, aligning with its pledge to offer novel and inventive gaming experiences. Ray Lee, Director of Business Development at TaDa Gaming, stated: “We are thrilled to partner with a platform of StarCasinó's caliber. Italy is a crucial market where we have focused on collaborating with top-tier operators to establish our name for secure and captivating gaming. Including StarCasinó as a client represents a significant milestone in our expansion across Italy.” Fabio Denegri, Business Director Italy for Betsson Group, added: “In the fast-moving gaming industry, inactivity is the biggest danger. Integrating TaDa Gaming allows us to infuse pure innovation into our portfolio: their games masterfully combine novel mechanics with state-of-the-art design. StarCasinò remains committed to selecting excellence to reinforce its market leadership, which is founded primarily on superior user experience quality.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   Portugal’s Gaming Regulation and Inspection Service (SRIJ) has launched a unified online self-exclusion platform for online gambling, which will be operational from 8 April 2026. This new portal aims to enhance player protection by enabling individuals, and third parties acting on their behalf, to temporarily suspend or permanently block their access to all licensed online gaming and betting websites operating in Portugal. The online self-exclusion system consolidates previously separate procedures into a single, user-friendly interface that is optimized for mobile devices. SRIJ highlighted that the portal is designed for ease of use and speed, anticipating the growing number of players who access gambling services via smartphones and tablets. The process will allow self-exclusion requests to be made by individuals themselves, as well as by third parties acting on behalf of those deemed at risk. These exclusion measures will be applied across all licensed online gambling operators in Portugal, thereby reducing the potential for players to circumvent bans by switching between sites. Furthermore, the platform is intended to offer a mobile-friendly user experience, encouraging more vulnerable users to utilize self-exclusion options. The introduction of this platform coincides with the rapid expansion of Portugal's online gambling sector. The country's revenue in this area appears to be increasing. The SRIJ recently reported that Q3 2025 generated €297.1 million ($346.5 million) in gross digital gaming revenue, marking the second-highest quarterly amount on record. This contrasts with a 4.6% year-on-year decline in earnings from land-based casinos. Implementing self-exclusion globally  Centralised self-exclusion mechanisms are becoming increasingly common worldwide, though their scope and effectiveness vary by country. Brazil introduced its own centralised system in December 2025. While authorised operators were previously required to offer players the option to self-exclude, the new centralised system allows bettors to block themselves from registering on all licensed sites. Russia implemented its self-exclusion system for gamblers in September of last year. The country's gambling industry largely supported this launch, which prevents players from revoking their exclusion for the first 12 months. Self-exclusion has proven to be a popular framework within the gambling industry. In the second half of 2025, Gamstop, the UK's national self-exclusion register, recorded a 40% increase in registrations from consumers aged 16-24. Gamstop also provides an auto-renewal service, which offers a de facto lifetime block, with exclusion only ending when a user opts out of auto-renewal. “The rise in take-up of our auto-renewal option, in particular, shows that many consumers are seeking longer-term support and recognise the value of self-exclusion in helping them manage their gambling,” stated Fiona Palmer, CEO of Gamstop Group. Germany also reported a significant increase in self-exclusion participants, with nearly 350,000 registrations in OASIS, the country's central gambling self-exclusion system, within its first four years of operation. Kathryn EvansKathryn covers bitesize breaking news with a primary focus on EMEA and US legislation. A proud North Walian, fluent Welsh speaker and lifelong Wrexham FC fan – long before Hollywood came calling. 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 Brazilian Institute of Responsible Gaming (IBJR) has cautioned against a ban on betting in Brazil after the nation’s president renewed his call for the activity to be prohibited. Earlier this week, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva stated during an interview with ICL Notícias that he would move to ban betting if given the opportunity. Lula hinted that betting was being protected by its influence over certain politicians, noting: “If it were up to me, we would shut down the betting operations. “Obviously, this depends on the National Congress and the ongoing debate. I know that betting operators fund political efforts, but I can’t name names since I’m neither a judge nor a police officer. Still, everyone knows which deputies, parties, and senators are involved. Everybody is aware of this. We cannot keep allowing this widespread gambling to continue in this country. “If betting inflicts the harms we believe it does, why don’t we simply eliminate it entirely?” The IBJR released its response on Thursday, explaining that a full ban on betting in Brazil would push bettors to use unregulated black market gambling platforms instead of the player protection safeguards put in place after the regulated market launched on January 1, 2025. “Shuttering the legal betting market would not erase public demand for the activity, but instead would drive all users into the informal economy, eliminating consumer protection measures and substantial revenue earmarked for critical public services,” the IBJR stated. “Bolstering the formal betting market, which operates under one of the most modern regulatory frameworks worldwide, is the best way to stamp out illegal activity and guarantee clear standards of fairness and protection for bettors.” Concerns over family debt from betting in Brazil This is not the first time Lula has called for a betting ban in Brazil; he also made similar remarks during a national address for International Women’s Day in March. “While the majority of people with gambling addictions are men, the burden falls on women,” Lula said. “It’s money meant for food, rent, and their children’s school tuition that vanishes through mobile phone screens.” “It makes no sense to allow gambling into people’s homes, pushing families into debt via mobile devices. Let us work together, uniting the government, Congress, and the judiciary, so that these digital gambling platforms stop pushing families into debt and destroying households.” As Lula cited family debt linked to betting in Brazil, the IBJR has now sought to clarify the issue using “concrete data”. “A technical study conducted by LCA Consultoria shows that spending on this sector makes up between 0.2% and 0.5% of Brazilian households’ total consumption,” the IBJR explained. “Data from the National Consumer Indebtedness and Default Survey (PEIC) indicates that the primary cause of household over-indebtedness — which impacts 80.2% of families — is credit card use. To proactively address this issue, regulated betting platforms (identified by the .bet.br domain) are barred from accepting payments via credit cards or cryptocurrencies.” The IBJR also detailed the strict know-your-customer (KYC) procedures that licensed operators are required to follow to prevent underage gambling, with facial recognition mandated under the regulatory rules. “The regulated betting environment is the only framework that provides mandatory consumer protection measures, such as playtime limits, deposit caps, and a self-exclusion tool,” the IBJR added. “As such, regulation is the primary safeguard for protecting Brazilians’ financial and mental well-being, while also ensuring a safer entertainment space.” Betting’s financial contribution in Brazil The IBJR also highlighted the substantial financial contributions made by licensed betting operators in Brazil. Licensed operators are subject to a BRL30 million licensing fee, plus additional taxes on top of the gaming tax, which will rise to 15% starting in 2028. The regulated betting sector contributed BRL9.95 billion in tax revenue in 2025, but with upcoming tax reforms, the total tax burden on operators is projected to reach 42% of gross gaming revenue (GGR) by 2033. The IBJR has therefore urged Lula to reconsider his calls for a complete ban on betting, saying: “Rolling back regulatory progress would mean losing out on critical revenue for social development and exposing Brazilians to the unregulated informal market. “The Brazilian Institute for Responsible Gaming reaffirms its dedication to transparent, technical dialogue with the executive branch and the National Congress, acting in a strictly democratic manner to build a safe, responsible economic sector that actively contributes to the country’s future.” Kyle GoldsmithKyle has been with Clarion since December 2023, joining from the sports journalism space before going on to serve as a senior LatAm-focused reporter for iGB. 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) -   Altenar is set to present its sportsbook technology at the upcoming Italian Gaming Expo, taking place in Rome from April 14 to 15. Press release.- Members of the Altenar team are attending the Italian Gaming Expo (IGE) in Rome on April 14–15. The firm will highlight methods for expanding operations within one of the most demanding markets in Europe. With over €20bn in gross gaming revenue recorded last year, Italy represents a significant betting market. However, it is also characterized by high complexity, stemming from rigorous ADM rules, restrictions on content and advertising, and extensive compliance needs for both digital and physical channels. Companies in the sector must deal with further obstacles, including tough reporting duties, licensing limits, and regular changes to regulations that necessitate ongoing adjustments. Non-compliance carries the risk of heavy fines, which complicates market entry and expansion. Achieving success in the Italian market currently demands more than just technical tools. Organizations are moving through a period of transformation marked by a fresh licensing structure, required certifications, enhanced player safety protocols, and some of the most stringent anti-money laundering regulations in Europe. It is essential for operators to utilize a versatile platform and collaborate with a partner that provides customized solutions meeting both commercial objectives and regulatory standards. Dinos Stranomitis, co-founder and COO of Altenar, is scheduled to deliver a presentation titled Future of Betting on April 14, offering perspectives on overcoming these hurdles while capitalizing on the market's potential. Regional director Francesco Papallo stated: “In Italy, being flexible and compliant is essential. The year 2026 will be particularly vital for operators as they navigate significant structural shifts and the need for new certifications under the updated licensing system. Success belongs to those who can adapt quickly.” Visitors at IGE 2026 in Rome can connect with the Altenar team to discover tools designed to help operators grow within regulated, data-centric landscapes. 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) -   Swedish live casino provider Evolution AB has submitted a motion to the New Jersey Superior Court asking to modify an existing defamation lawsuit, adding competing gaming technology firm Playtech Plc and several linked individuals as defendants. This action is rooted in claims that Playtech organized and financed a false, commercially driven smear campaign aimed at harming Evolution’s reputation and blocking its entry into the North American online gaming market. Five years later Evolution first launched the defamation case against U.S. law firm Calcagni & Kanefsky LLP and intelligence contractor Black Cube in late 2020. It is alleged that Playtech engaged Black Cube to investigate Evolution’s activities in prohibited and unlicensed markets. The resulting report was later sent to regulators in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, triggering scrutiny of Evolution’s operations. However, both regulators ultimately found no evidence to support the report’s core allegations. The New Jersey Superior Court later described the document as “objectively baseless.” In an October statement to iGB, Black Cube said it had “proudly submitted its findings in coordination with its client.” Playtech also pushed back against Evolution’s claims, stating the investigation was conducted lawfully to address and verify “concerns of significant regulatory and commercial importance.” If the proposed amendment is approved, it will implicate Playtech and Juda Engelmayer—a communications professional affiliated with HeraldPR—as key players behind the commissioning of Black Cube to prepare the report. Breaking down the allegations In its amended filing, Evolution makes several claims against Playtech and related parties. It alleges Playtech hired Black Cube to investigate Evolution and produced a report accusing the company of corporate misconduct, which Evolution describes as “preordained” and lacking evidentiary basis. Evolution further claims Playtech purportedly agreed to pay substantial success fees—estimated by Evolution at around £1.5 million—contingent on Black Cube delivering results aligned with Playtech’s desired narrative. Playtech is also accused of hiding its involvement from investors and regulators while spending millions in legal fees to obscure its role in the affair. Additionally, Evolution accuses Juda Engelmayer and his firm HeraldPR of facilitating the leak of the report to media outlets to maximize reputational damage. Beyond defamation and trade libel, Evolution alleges fraud, racketeering, and the withholding of material information from shareholders. Evolution has also claimed Black Cube used deceptive methods during its investigation, including covert recordings and false identities when engaging with former employees—actions that contribute to what it calls a misleading and defamatory narrative. Evolution’s filings also point to Playtech’s history of regulatory scrutiny in Sweden in 2025 over compliance issues. Playtech’s reaction Playtech has publicly dismissed Evolution’s proposed legal amendment as “baseless and without merit.” The London-listed competitor stated it expected Evolution’s move following the latter’s public comments in October 2025. Playtech stands by the commissioning of the investigative report and its findings, welcoming court and regulatory scrutiny while expressing confidence that discovery proceedings will validate the report’s credibility. Furthermore, Playtech countered with its own accusations, suggesting Evolution aims to “avoid legitimate scrutiny” regarding claims of supplying operators in illegal or unsanctioned markets and supporting unlicensed operators within regulated jurisdictions. Playtech has framed the investigation as a lawful response to “credible and repeated concerns” raised by operators, suppliers, and regulators about Evolution’s activities. Industry implications The dispute highlights ongoing tensions in the online gaming sector, particularly between two of the world’s largest B2B suppliers. The controversy intersects with broader regulatory scrutiny. In the UK, the Gambling Commission launched a review of Evolution’s supplier licence in 2024 over concerns its games were accessible via unlicensed operators. This prompted the company to withdraw from certain grey markets and strengthen compliance controls, albeit at a financial cost. The prolonged legal battle has also weighed on investor sentiment. In October 2025, Playtech felt the immediate market impact as its share price plummeted between 25% and 38%. Evolution’s share price, by contrast, held steady or even rose slightly upon the release of its statement. However, this latest development could affect share prices for both Evolution and Playtech. Back in November, Ben Robinson, managing partner at Corfai Capital told iGB: “From a share value perspective, both sides appear to have little to gain from letting this escalate.” The complexity of aggregator networks and VPN usage makes preventing access from unregulated jurisdictions an extremely challenging task. “Content from major suppliers, including both Evolution and Playtech, often appears through third-party aggregators. That doesn’t prove direct involvement; it reflects the increasingly fragmented nature of distribution,” he adds. The Superior Court of New Jersey will now decide whether to allow the amended complaint to proceed. Kathryn EvansKathryn covers concise breaking news with a primary focus on EMEA and U.S. legislation. A proud North Walian, fluent Welsh speaker, and lifelong Wrexham FC fan—long before Hollywood showed interest. This article is provided by a third-party. 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(AsiaGameHub) -   Welcome to the latest edition of Focus Gaming News’ Weekend Conversation Corner, a quick breakdown of the past week’s top headlines that have drawn global attention. As we sort through the flood of recent events to create a clear, focused recap, we cover the key stories that have shifted public conversation, shaped policy decisions, and sparked widespread debate. Join us as we cut through unnecessary noise to deliver a concise roundup of the week’s most important developments, keeping you updated on what truly matters in today’s constantly changing world. Stay informed, stay motivated, and keep gaming. We wish you an excellent weekend! Ohio lawmakers propose new sports betting restrictions State lawmakers have introduced the Save Ohio Sports Act, which aims to put new limits on sports betting across Ohio. The bill would cap individual wager sizes, ban mobile betting, and outlaw specific bet types including prop bets and in-game wagers. Players would be restricted to $100 per wager, and allowed to place no more than 8 wagers over a 24-hour period at licensed casinos. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has supported removing prop bets from legal betting offerings, following an investigation involving two Cleveland Guardians pitchers. The proposed legislation is intended to strengthen consumer protections and improve regulation of Ohio’s sports betting industry. Italy’s World Cup failure amplifies calls to end gambling ad ban Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has launched an investigation into the governance and funding of Italian football, after the national men’s team failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The upset has led to growing demands to lift Italy’s existing ban on gambling advertisements and sponsorships. The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has faced widespread criticism, which has resulted in the resignation of its president Gabriele Gravina and other top leaders. There is growing recognition of a major funding gap in Italian sports, with proposals to restore financial sustainability by allowing gambling sponsorships. The 2018 Dignity Decree, which implemented the gambling advertising ban, is now being questioned over its negative impact on Italian football’s revenue. Sport Minister Andrea Abodi has already proposed lifting the ban on gambling sponsorships in sports, but progress on the change has been slow. The future of both funding and governance for Italian football remains uncertain. Latvia’s national gambling regulator is disbanded Latvia’s Lotteries and Gambling Supervisory Inspection has been dissolved, and all of its former regulatory duties have been transferred to the State Revenue Service. This government restructuring is designed to streamline regulation, particularly for the fast-growing online gambling sector. The State Revenue Service has created new dedicated divisions for licensing, compliance, and inspections to maintain strong regulatory oversight. In neighboring Baltic countries, Estonia has begun cutting gambling tax rates, while Lithuania is considering a mandatory player card system for anyone accessing gambling services. These changes reflect a broader trend of modernizing and updating gambling regulations across the Baltic region. The evolution of Europe’s igaming market: from monopolies to a regulated industry Summary: The article explores the evolution of the European iGaming industry over the past decade, focusing on the shift toward stronger, more robust regulatory frameworks across multiple countries. It examines how nations including Italy, Spain, Germany, Greece, Finland, and Malta have updated their regulations to meet the needs of the growing industry. The piece also addresses the role of the European Gaming and Betting Association (EGBA) in pushing for regulatory harmonization, as well as ongoing challenges including illegal unregulated markets, inconsistent rules across jurisdictions, and unresolved issues around gambling advertising. Insights from industry operators highlight both the operational challenges and new opportunities created by the shifting regulatory landscape. The article concludes by emphasizing the progress Europe has made in institution-building and cross-border regulatory cooperation, marking this as a major milestone for the global iGaming sector. Malta to streamline its igaming tax framework Gambling companies operating in Malta will see changes to VAT and gaming tax rules starting October 1, 2026. The Malta Tax and Customs Administration and Malta Gaming Authority announced the reforms, which are intended to create a clearer, more predictable tax framework for operators. Amendments to the VAT Act will clarify exemption rules for gambling suppliers, ensuring taxation is applied at the place of consumption. Gaming tax regulations will be simplified and consolidated into a single structure that applies to both land-based and online operators. These changes aim to strengthen Malta’s fiscal resilience and regulatory clarity, while preserving the competitiveness of the country’s gaming sector. The government is also considering regulating prediction platforms in Malta, to clarify whether the sector falls under gambling or financial regulation. Dutch gambling regulator publishes new guidance on duty of care requirements The Dutch gambling regulator, Kansspelautoriteit (KSA), has released new research and guidance on duty of care obligations for licensed online gambling operators. The new studies focus on in-person interviews with players suspected of excessive gambling behavior, and the registration process for the Central Register for Exclusion from Gambling (CRUKS). The KSA has published updated guidelines based on feedback from license holders to clarify implementation practices. The regulator stressed the importance of advising players to register with CRUKS if they show signs of problematic gambling behavior. The new guidance aims to clarify existing obligations to support safer gambling practices. Additionally, the KSA recently reminded licensed sports betting operators of the limits of their licenses, after discovering unapproved non-sports bets being offered. Operators were ordered to remove these unauthorized offerings to remain compliant with regulations. Gibraltar issues first prediction markets license in potentially controversial move The Gibraltar government has granted a license to a prediction markets operator, making it one of the few European jurisdictions to formally regulate this type of platform. The move aims to diversify Gibraltar’s existing gambling and financial services ecosystem. The licensed firm, Predict Street Ltd, is now listed as an authorized betting intermediary and has ties to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This decision comes amid growing concerns over the economic impact of the UK’s increased Remote Gaming Tax on Gibraltar’s economy. While prediction markets have faced controversy across Europe, Gibraltar’s move contrasts with countries like Germany and France, which have banned certain prediction platforms. The future of prediction markets in Gibraltar remains uncertain, though existing iGaming operators and major international players including Kalshi and Polymarket have expressed potential interest. The UK’s regulatory stance is also expected to impact the operations of Gibraltar-licensed operators that target British consumers. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   The 'Enough is Enough' movement in India has formally protested the casino vessels on Goa's Mandovi River. The activist organization inaugurated a permanent base in Panaji, Goa's capital, on Tuesday. Residents of Goa have for years objected to the floating casinos, alleging they harm the environment, cause river traffic jams, and negatively impact fishing communities. Former Chief Justice Ferdino Rebello, now the movement's leading figure, further contends the boats breach India's Gambling Act. He has contested their continued operation in communications sent to Goa's Chief Minister, Pramod Sawant. “I intend to write once more, detailing the reasons these casinos are prohibited from operating there,” Rebello stated to the press in Panaji. “Should the government fail to act, the public may need to contemplate if a different administration should address the issue.” Retired Allahabad Chief Justice Ferdino Rebello is leading India's grassroots Enough is Enough movement, which campaigns against excessive development nationwide. The fight against casino boats forms one aspect of a wider environmental initiative across India. Rebello explained that Enough is Enough is bringing this campaign directly to communities and their talukas, the administrative bodies overseeing groups of villages. The group has prepared a resolution for local representatives, pressing them to combat overdevelopment and reject rushed applications for land conversion. As reported by the Navhind Times, the movement asserts that rampant construction not only harms the ecosystem. It also overburdens local utilities and threatens to change “Goa's identity, cultural heritage, and the Konkani language.” Goa home to 13 land-based, riverboat casinos While casino gambling is federally prohibited in India, it is allowed in certain states, such as Goa. Currently, Goa hosts 13 casinos, with seven located on land and six operating offshore on the Mandovi River. In March, Chief Minister Sawant declared a tripling of the licensing fee for new land-based casino ventures. He also clarified that the state government does not intend to issue new licenses for offshore casinos. “The count of offshore casinos is capped at six,” he stated. “The raised fee applies solely to applicants seeking to establish new onshore casinos within the state.” Over many years, Goa's authorities have repeatedly pledged to move the Mandovi casinos to alternative locations, yet these plans have not materialized. Per The Goan, the news of increased fees for land-based casino licenses comes at a time of local demonstrations against a proposed large casino boat with a 2,000-passenger capacity, which is said to be slated to take the place of a current, smaller vessel. Marjorie PrestonMarjorie started her career in the gaming industry in 2007 and has specialized in Asian gaming markets since 2020. In her personal time, she authors travel and film articles and is a drummer. 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) -   Just hours after Shohei Ohtani guided Japan to a win against Australia in the World Baseball Classic, Matt Bowyer left the grounds of FCI Lompoc in California. Bowyer, who processed $325 million in sports bets for Ohtani’s former interpreter, entered the federal penitentiary last October, two weeks prior to the World Series. Coincidentally, Bowyer exited the prison facility just before Ohtani and the Los Angeles Dodgers embarked on their quest for the franchise’s historic ‘three-peat’. His release on March 9 occurred before he had served half of his 12-month and one-day sentence. Remaining in federal custody, Bowyer is slated to spend the next few months at a halfway house in Orange County ahead of his full release in June. Recently, Bowyer met with iGB for a 90-minute interview, marking his first conversation with the media since leaving prison. He is permitted to leave during the day to work for a turf business owned by a former bookmaking associate. On weekends, he has already managed to visit his family several times. “Prison was far more difficult than I anticipated,” Bowyer stated to iGB. “I knew my time was coming in March, but I wasn’t sure of the exact date. When I had about a month remaining, I was overjoyed. My perspective on things has changed significantly now.” The daily routine Bowyer admitted guilt to three counts, including felonies for money laundering transactions and running an illegal bookmaking enterprise. Meanwhile, Ippei Mizuhara, Ohtani’s former interpreter, continues to serve a 57-month sentence for stealing millions from the MLB player to settle gambling debts with Bowyer’s outfit. Many inmates at Lompoc were aware of Bowyer’s narrative, with some having read his memoir, Recalibrate. However, Bowyer noted that he did not receive any special privileges. A standard day saw him waking up around 6 a.m., an hour before starting his duties as an orderly. His responsibilities included scrubbing a bathroom. Breakfast typically involved grits, oatmeal, or powdered milk. Daily, he spent 90 minutes cleaning toilets and mopping floors. In one incident, an inmate seized another prisoner and slammed his head onto the bathroom floor. Bowyer described the victim as being beaten to a “living pulp,” necessitating three mops to clean the spilled blood. He compared the scene in the bathroom to a “murder scene.” Before his incarceration, Bowyer mentioned to iGB his intention to exercise rigorously while inside. After lunch daily, he usually lifted weights and then walked eight miles on the track. He dedicated his afternoons to playing pickleball, ranking himself as the second-best player on the court. The prison currency Although many correctional facilities provide numerous classes, Bowyer noted that options were scarce at Lompoc. There was a Spanish class available for interested inmates. A specific item—a bag of carnitas (pork)—became a highly valued commodity within the prison. Bowyer observed that a $5 bag could be used for trading. Under his sentencing terms, Bowyer is prohibited from gambling for a minimum of three years. Despite this, he witnessed widespread sports betting inside. Inmates who had acted as bookies externally used tickets to manage these bets. The internal sportsbooks even accepted carnitas as payment. This betting mirrors the activity in “The Bullpen,” a casino operated by inmates in the early 20th century at the now-closed Nevada State Prison. It is notable that Kalshi was still in its early stages when Bowyer surrendered to authorities last fall. Since that time, prediction markets have thrived, with Kalshi’s valuation increasing twofold to $22 billion. Drawing on his past as a commodities broker, Bowyer is fascinated by this emerging asset class. Before accepting any advisory position with a prediction market, he intends to perform thorough due diligence to guarantee that such work does not breach his plea agreement. Future plans Before entering Lompoc, Bowyer released a memoir detailing the Mizuhara case and his broader bookmaking activities. In his plea, he also confessed to laundering millions via various Las Vegas Strip venues. This case has triggered comprehensive overhauls to Know-Your-Customer protocols along the famous strip. Currently, Bowyer is writing a second book covering the time following his sentencing and his incarceration experience. Although Bowyer was originally looking at an 18-year prison term, he secured his release in under a year. In October 2023, shortly after attending an NFL game in Texas, his Southern California home was raided by nearly nearly two dozen federal agents. This raid was likened to an FBI visit Justin Paperny faced during a white-collar crime probe. Paperny ultimately pleaded guilty to breaching fiduciary duty in connection with a scheme involving a hedge fund associate. Paperny’s time in federal custody motivated him to establish White Collar Advice, a firm helping defendants manage their reputations before and after sentencing. After being released, Bowyer’s first call was to Paperny. He expressed his gratitude to the consultant for helping him steer through the difficult ordeal. “Matt, I hope you maintain this sentiment forever,” Paperny wrote in a blog entry. “I have been back home for 17 years, and that feeling slowly fades—it disappears.” Bowyer still intends to eventually talk to professional athletes about the dangers of compulsive gambling. His immediate priority, however, is returning home. Above all, he wishes to make it clear to the public that he does not view himself as a victim. “The hardest part is behind me,” Bowyer remarked. “I can get on with my life, rebuild, and demonstrate to my family what I am capable of.” Matt RybaltowskiMatt mainly handles in-depth feature reporting on intricate sports betting controversies. Additionally, he covers topics related to finance, mergers and acquisitions, and various technological advancements. 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 latest report indicates an improvement in the rate of channelisation. Sweden.- The horseracing betting operator AB Trav och Galopp (ATG) has suggested that headway is being made against unlicensed gambling in Sweden. The horse racing betting operator noted a decline in illicit betting activities and enhanced channelisation in its newest report. According to ATG’s estimates, Sweden’s channelisation rate reached between 72 and 84 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2025, compared with 69 to 82 per cent in the same quarter of 2024. While this marks an improvement, it still remains below the government’s target. ATG cautioned that Sweden’s unlicensed sector is still substantial, with net revenue estimated at SEK 3.6bn–7.3bn (€330m-€660m). “Channelisation is progressing favorably, but a significant effort is still required to achieve the state’s objective,” said Tobias Melin, ATG’s Head of Analysis. He added: “Concurrently, we observe unlicensed websites utilizing identical platforms and payment methods, and in some instances, continuing to operate despite official rulings. This underscores the necessity for stricter regulations to effectively eliminate unlicensed operators.” Related: The Swedish gambling regulator suggests actions operators can implement to deter unlicensed gaming The report highlighted that 14 of the 20 most frequently visited unlicensed gaming websites shared platform providers with licensed operators. Additionally, eight facilitated direct transactions with Swedish banks, and five appeared on Spelinspektionen’s, the Swedish gambling regulator’s, blacklist. Government data from 2025 revealed that sports betting channelisation was between 92 and 96 per cent, whereas online casino channelisation trailed at 72–82 per cent. The Swedish Online Gaming Association (BOS) contends that stringent regulation is pushing players towards unregulated platforms. Upcoming Swedish gambling legislation is anticipated to rectify a “loophole” that previously limited Spelinspektionen’s enforcement capabilities. This new law will remove the “directorial criterion,” which mandated that online gambling had to be explicitly targeting the Swedish market to be deemed illegal. Consequently, the regulator will gain the authority to act against any gambling product available within Sweden. 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 platform has secured official Daily Fantasy Sports Partner status with the National Basketball Association. United States – The National Basketball Association (NBA) has inked a multi-year agreement with PrizePicks, designating it as an official Daily Fantasy Sports Partner. PrizePicks will incorporate NBA intellectual property into its fantasy offerings, free-to-play games, and marketing efforts. The agreement allows PrizePicks to use NBA League, team, and event logos across approved digital platforms, including its app and website. The National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) will grant PrizePicks permission to feature images of multiple players in its marketing materials. Mike Ybarra, CEO of PrizePicks, stated: “This partnership with the NBA marks a significant milestone for PrizePicks as we grow alongside one of the most iconic sports leagues globally. Basketball has always been at the core of our brand, and this collaboration reflects our deep roots in the game. Our focus has always been on delivering fun and responsible experiences, and working with the NBA enables us to bring that commitment to fans through innovative integrations that enhance their engagement with basketball.” Eric Rimsky, NBA’s head of domestic fantasy, added: “PrizePicks has established itself as a leader in daily fantasy sports through innovation and a strong focus on fans. We’re excited to collaborate with PrizePicks to elevate the NBA fan experience by combining the league’s unmatched moments with PrizePicks’ interactive innovations, creating new and engaging ways for fans to connect with the sport.” In 2025, PrizePicks earned iCAP accreditation from the National Council on Problem Gambling. ‍ This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   A drop in revenue from gaming machines in Italy resulted in a lower tax collection for January. Italy.- According to the most recent figures from the Ministry of Economy and Finance, gambling tax income in Italy decreased during the first two months of 2026. Although the total tax revenue remained stable at €91.8bn, income from the gambling industry fell by 12.4 per cent compared to the previous year, reaching €1.31bn. Indirect gambling taxes saw a steeper drop of 17.1 per cent, down to €1.049bn. This decrease is mainly due to reduced tax income from gaming machines in January. Revenue from this sector declined by 15.2 per cent to €800m in the first month of the year. An increase in February, which rose year-on-year from €249m in 2025 to €391m, was insufficient to compensate for January's weaker performance. As reported by the Italian specialist media source Jamma, these numbers extend a pattern observed in recent years. Revenue from gambling machines has fallen from €978m at the start of 2024, to €943m in 2025, and €800m in the initial months of 2026. Annual totals have also decreased, from €5.423bn in 2024 to €5.244bn in 2025. Other areas of the market have experienced more moderate changes, showing some slight improvements in February. Analysts indicate that this trend could be a result of shifting consumer preferences, new regulations, or broader economic factors. New licenses for online gambling in Italy were finally implemented towards the end of last year. Meanwhile, long-debated reforms for the land-based gambling sector are anticipated to be put forward shortly. 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 Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) has announced the organizations set to receive £25.4 million in funding from the Gambling Levy. UK.- The UK government’s Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID) has unveiled the initial list of groups that will get funding through the new Gambling Harms Prevention VCSE Fund. These selected organizations will be supported by the compulsory UK Gambling Levy, which was implemented 12 months ago. As part of the new levy framework, OHID has assumed responsibility for commissioning services aimed at preventing gambling harm, taking over from the now-closed GambleAware—the body that used to distribute funds gathered under the earlier voluntary scheme. OHID has tentatively set aside £25.4 million to fund 33 organizations for the 2026–2028 period. The beneficiaries include charities, educational trusts, advice services, and community groups. Among the groups getting the biggest grants, GamCare—operator of the 24/7 National Gambling Helpline—will receive £4.04 million, while the Young Gamers and Gamblers Education Trust (YGAM), which works extensively with schools and youth organizations, will be awarded £3 million. Betknowmore has been granted £2.99 million, and BetBlocker—a free gambling-blocking tool that raised concerns in December about hitting a “funding cliff edge”—will receive £1.12 million. Multiple Citizens Advice offices and regional groups will get sums ranging from £140,000 to £1.3 million. Around £12 million will be given to local councils to back community-based efforts to prevent and reduce gambling harm. BetBlocker’s selection was welcomed by its founder Duncan Garvie, who described the grant as “a major achievement” and “a high standard by which the organization will be evaluated.” However, Garvie noted that other top-tier service providers had not been successful in their funding applications. The launch of the new funding setup has sparked controversy. Some charities have voiced complaints about getting just 13 days’ notice of funding outcomes, and a number of long-standing groups have been turned down for support. Gamban, a prominent gambling-blocking software provider, was left out because it functions as a limited company instead of a voluntary, community, or social enterprise. Since then, it has started charging a £4.99 monthly subscription fee in England and Scotland, though the service is still free in Wales. The Gambling Lived Experience Network labeled the transition as “a clear example of the consequences when existing sector experts are excluded from planning.” In reaction, the government announced a Gambling Levy Transition Fund last month, providing three months of emergency aid for organizations that didn’t get funding. Applications are open until April 30. The government has appointed three national commissioners to manage Gambling Levy funds: NHS England handles treatment, UK Research and Innovation oversees research, and OHID is responsible for prevention—with corresponding bodies in Scotland and Wales also involved. The levy was first billed on September 1, 2025, and is projected to bring in approximately £120 million annually from licensed gambling operators. Thirty percent goes to OHID and devolved governments for prevention work, while the remaining funds are split between treatment and research. 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.