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(AsiaGameHub) -   Ahead of SiGMA South America 2026, Luiza Melikyan, Head of Business Development at PopOK Gaming, is sharing insights into the company’s expansion strategy across Latin America, the increasing popularity of its Rico series, and the significant role Brazil plays in driving regional growth. Exclusive interview.- PopOK Gaming is continuing to strengthen its presence in Latin America, with Brazil emerging as one of its most rapidly growing and strategically vital markets. As the company prepares to exhibit its portfolio at SiGMA South America, Luiza Melikyan, head of business development at PopOK Gaming, discusses player preferences in the region, upcoming market expansions, and the company’s key objectives for 2026. How is PopOK Gaming preparing for SiGMA South America? What products will the company present at the show? PopOK Gaming is gearing up for SiGMA South America with a strong focus on LatAm. We will be showcasing our complete portfolio, with a particular emphasis on high-performing slots and crash games that are consistently driving significant growth across the region. What PopOK games are Latin American customers most interested in? Our Rico family of games is leading the way in LatAm, especially in Brazil, where they have experienced a substantial increase in popularity. In addition to the standout titles from the Rico series, our games Yo Dragon, Cavalo de Fogo Fortune, and Avi are all recognized for their dynamic gameplay and engaging design. Which new markets does the company plan to expand into in the next few months? We are actively expanding into new markets while simultaneously enhancing our certified games portfolio. Concurrently, we are introducing new titles to support growth in both emerging and established regions. “We are expanding into new markets while continuously strengthening our certified games portfolio.” Luiza Melikyan, head of business development at PopOK Gaming What does the Brazilian market mean for the company? Brazil represents a key market for PopOK Gaming and serves as a major catalyst for our growth in LatAm. The strong performance of our Rico games is indicative of high player engagement, and we are proud to be recognized as one of the most popular game providers in the country. What are PopOK’s main objectives in Latin America for 2026? Our primary focus for 2026 is to scale our presence across LatAm, cultivate deeper partnerships with leading operators, and consistently deliver high-performing content. Expanding our Rico portfolio and growing our certified game offering remain central to our strategic direction. “Our focus for 2026 is to scale our presence across LatAm, deepen partnerships with leading operators, and continue delivering high-performing content.” Luiza Melikyan, head of business development at PopOK Gaming. 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) -   Flexifai, a payment tech firm focused on high-friction markets, has rolled out an AI-powered routing engine designed to boost transaction approval rates in emerging economies. The firm states that a digital operator in Ghana saw its conversion rate jump from 43% to 73% within a month of the system going live, achieving this without altering the product design or checkout process. This outcome was achieved through three linked features: intelligent routing, which chooses payment paths using real-time performance metrics like authorization rates and processing latency; cascading logic, which sends transactions to backup providers if they fail; and automated retry mechanisms that try again on declined transactions before the user session ends. Ghana posed a distinct infrastructure challenge that influenced the rollout. Mobile money systems in the region do not have the anti-fraud monitoring tools that card-based environments usually possess. This created a situation where fraudulent activity—such as one user cycling through many phone numbers or email addresses—was hard to spot at the provider level. Flexifai solved this issue by creating alert systems linked to specific data fields that show the strongest link to fraud signals: customer phone numbers, email addresses, and the transmission sequence of that data. This method allowed for large-scale pattern recognition and generated structured reports, enabling the operator to spot potential high-risk users and act accordingly. “Ghana is a market with a growing digital economy and genuinely unpredictable payment infrastructure,” said Sofiia, head of sales at Flexifai. “Routing technology that adapts to those conditions in real time is not a secondary feature – it is the core of what makes conversion possible in markets like this.” This identical strategy has since been utilized in Kenya and Zambia, where the lack of antifraud infrastructure in mobile money ecosystems creates similar hurdles. In both nations, Flexifai implemented data-driven pattern recognition to set up pre-emptive fraud analysis in settings where standard PSP tools offered little visibility. The routing engine analyzes signals such as user device type, IP address, and geo-risk indicators, as well as time-of-day bank behaviour, issuing bank traits linked to the BIN level, and real-time gateway load. Flexifai presently facilitates over 80 local payment methods throughout Africa, Europe, Latin America, Australia, Canada and New Zealand. Its African reach encompasses mobile wallets like OPay, PalmPay, MTN MoMo and Airtel, alongside USSD rails, agent networks, instant bank transfers and open banking infrastructure. The firm keeps on-the-ground teams in Lagos and various parts of Latin America. The routing engine is currently active and keeps adding new data signals and providers as the platform grows. 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) -   BGaming introduces a burst of candy-colored chaos to the slot reels. Press release: BGaming delivers a dose of sugary fun with the debut of its newest slot, Sugar Merge Up. This new entry in BGaming’s #Entertainment gaming category welcomes players to a candy-colored universe guided by a whimsical jelly bear mascot. With the 6×6 cluster-pay game grid packed full of vibrant sweets and candies, players might want to schedule a dentist visit beforehand. BGaming’s beloved Merge Up mechanic is back. This cascade-style feature causes winning symbols to combine and level up to the next higher-value symbol, opening up opportunities for larger wins in subsequent cascades. The game expands on the gameplay of the hit Merge Up 2 slot, offering players fresh methods to create combos and land big wins. The standout new addition is the Bubblegum symbol—once formed, it can detonate and eliminate up to 8 adjacent symbols. It then boosts any multipliers in those cells before transforming into a Scatter. Scatters are key to triggering the free spins bonus, with up to 30 free spins available. This round can be extended by landing three or more scatters during the bonus phase. For those with a sweet tooth eager to dive right into the action, Sugar Merge Up provides two booster modes as part of six total Buy Bonus options. The Chance ×2 amplifier costs ×1.2 the player’s stake. The Random Booster adds random multipliers up to ×128 per spin for ×10 the bet, while Booster ×16 ensures ×16 multipliers cover the entire grid each spin for ×40 the stake. The price range for the three free spins buy bonus options is ×100 to ×500. 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 gaming content developer has finalized a partnership with the prominent operator. Press release.- TaDa Gaming has expanded its presence in the South African igaming sector by securing a new partnership with World Sports Betting. This deal grants players instant access to popular titles such as Crazy 777, Coin Tree, 40 Sparkling Crown, Devil Fire 2, and Rapid Gems 777, in addition to the Fortune Gems collection. With up to four new titles launched each month and ongoing certifications for its library of over 230 games, World Sports Betting customers can look forward to a consistent supply of engaging and innovative casino content. The games are being distributed via Light & Wonder Inc. TaDa Gaming has achieved steady expansion across more than 15 African nations, including Tanzania, Uganda, Ghana, Kenya, and Nigeria. The company’s success is driven by a "glocalisation" strategy that blends global gaming mechanics with localized content, supported by deep regulatory expertise, establishing it as a key player in the advanced South African market. This new deal with World Sports Betting follows a series of significant partnerships and distribution agreements secured by TaDa Gaming in South Africa throughout the year. Established in 2002, World Sports Betting provides a top-tier online sportsbook and gaming platform in South Africa. Known for its commitment to innovation, the operator’s digital platform is recognized for its high performance. Featuring an intuitive user interface and products tailored to the local market, WSB Online and the newer WSB Mobi have quickly become industry leaders. World Sports Betting enhances its comprehensive casino portfolio with its innovative “Club Prive” rewards program, which provides a premium VIP experience from the very first spin. Based in Johannesburg, World Sports Betting holds licenses from the Mpumalanga Economic Regulator and the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board. Ray Lee, director of business development at TaDa Gaming, stated: “We are thrilled to partner with an industry leader such as World Sports Betting. Our priority remains providing the high-quality gaming experiences TaDa Gaming is known for. Partnering with WSB will allow us to further elevate our brand presence in this dynamic market.” Ryno Du Plessis, Group COO at World Sports Betting, added: “We are confident that TaDa Gaming’s impressive library of titles will be a hit with our slots players. We are particularly enthusiastic about Coin Tree, Crazy 777, and Devil Fire 2, as these games are sure to evoke a sense of nostalgia among traditional slots enthusiasts in South Africa.” 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) -   On Sunday, Nepal’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MoCIT) ordered the Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) to carry out the directive: “immediately close [all] betting apps and websites, including any electronic betting” within a 24-hour window. In response, the NTA collaborated with internet service providers to block access to these platforms. This ban is part of a 100-point policy reform agenda under Prime Minister Balendra Shah, who was elected on March 5. The 35-year-old rapper and former Kathmandu mayor—who built his following via social media and pledged greater governance transparency—secured nearly a two-thirds majority, easily defeating his controversial rival KP Sharma Oli. Shah was sworn into office on March 27. The next day, Oli was arrested on allegations of authorizing deadly force during public demonstrations in Nepal last September. During the so-called “Gen-Z uprising,” police killed at least 19 people who took to the streets to protest government corruption. They also opposed a ban on social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X, which Oli claimed had failed to comply with government regulations. Those bans have since been lifted. Curbing the Surge in Online Gambling All forms of gambling are illegal in Nepal, and participation is considered a criminal offense. Penalties include fines of Rs30,000 (about US$300), device forfeiture, and jail terms ranging from three months to one year. Despite the prohibition, the government has grown increasingly concerned about the rise in online betting—with its potential financial and social harms, especially for young users. Citing similar risks, India, Nepal’s South Asian neighbor, also banned online gambling last year. MoCIT has promised “strict action … against anyone who uses or operates betting apps and websites unauthorisedly”. Marjorie PrestonMarjorie started her gaming career in 2007 and has focused on Asian gaming markets since 2020. Outside work, she writes about travel and film and plays the drums. 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 new advertising campaign across digital, television, and radio platforms has been introduced by the department. US.- New public service announcements have been unveiled by the Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG), featuring the Take Back the Game campaign. This initiative utilizes digital, TV, and radio ads to promote the state's self-exclusion program. The 30-second commercial, available in both English and Spanish, depicts the self-exclusion process at the department's Phoenix headquarters. Created in partnership with the Arizona Media Association, Take Back the Game is part of a trio of new PSAs. The other campaigns include No Online Casinos in AZ, which highlights the illegality of online casinos in the state, and Too Young to Bet, which focuses on preventing underage gambling. Through the self-exclusion program, individuals can voluntarily ban themselves from all regulated tribal casinos, licensed event wagering, and fantasy sports operators for periods of one, five, or ten years. Over 11,900 residents have utilized the program since it began, with 2,500 individuals currently enrolled. Jackie Johnson, the department's director, stated: “Arizona introduced its voluntary self-exclusion program in the early 2000s to help residents avoid tribal casinos if gambling began to negatively affect their lives. The program was later broadened to cover event wagering and fantasy sports. With the launch of Take Back the Game, our department reinforces self-exclusion as a practical and empowering resource that benefits thousands of people across Arizona.” Earlier this year in January, the ADG’s Division of Problem Gambling revealed its inaugural peer support and recovery services initiative. Dezerve Counselling was selected for the contract, and the program is slated to begin in the middle of 2026. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) -   According to the legal filing, Kalshi is accused of breaching both the Washington state Gambling Act and the Consumer Protection Act. In the U.S., Washington Attorney General Nick Brown has initiated legal action against Kalshi. The complaint contends that the prediction market operator is breaking state regulations by permitting users to place wagers on sports, political elections, and various other occurrences. The legal action asserts that Kalshi is infringing upon the Washington state Gambling Act and Consumer Protection Act by trying to bypass these statutes through labeling its wagering interface as a prediction market. "Under Washington law, gambling is defined as staking or risking something of value on the result of a contest of chance or a future contingent event, and Kalshi's operations fit squarely within this definition," the filing declares. Brown remarked: "Kalshi encourages wagering on nearly every conceivable aspect of life—including election results, Supreme Court rulings, and even conflicts. To Kalshi, every incident and tragedy serves merely as an opportunity for Americans to gamble their wealth and for Kalshi to profit. While promoting this grim outlook on the future, they fill their coffers and congratulate themselves for evading Washington's gambling statutes. This stops now." Additionally, Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes has brought criminal charges against KalshiEx and Kalshi Trading, whereas Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has lodged a suit claiming the prediction market firm breached the state's Lawful Sports Betting Act (LSBA). The legal filing requests an abatement order and injunctive relief. 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) -   Domzalski will be responsible for and guide the legal, risk management, and regulatory compliance functions. Seneca Resorts & Casinos has appointed James Domzalski as its chief legal officer and general counsel. In this role, he will oversee and direct the legal, risk management, and regulatory compliance activities for the company and its subsidiaries. Domzalski has been with Seneca Resorts & Casinos since 2006, previously holding positions as deputy general counsel and senior corporate counsel. Prior to his tenure with the company, he worked in the Washington, D.C. office of Akin Gump, where his practice focused on corporate, securities, and transactional matters. He also gained experience at Gardner, Carton & Douglas in Albany, New York. Kevin Nephew, president and CEO of Seneca Resorts & Casinos, stated: “Jim has been a trusted adviser to our senior management team and Board, and an exceptional member of the Seneca Resorts & Casinos team for the past two decades. His in-depth knowledge and understanding of our operations, our industry and the complex landscape in which we operate make him a vital resource in everything we do.” Domzalski commented: “I have been incredibly fortunate to be part of Seneca Resorts & Casinos’ dynamic growth and evolution, witnessing firsthand the transformative impact our shared success has had on the Seneca Nation and the communities where we operate. I am deeply grateful to the senior management team and the board of directors for their trust and confidence in me as we continue to build the future of Seneca Resorts & Casinos for our guests, our team members, our community, and the Seneca Nation.” Seneca Resorts & Casinos operates three resorts in New York: Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino in Niagara Falls, Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino in downtown Buffalo, and Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino in Salamanca. Additionally, the company manages the Seneca Hickory Stick Golf Course in Lewiston. Recently, the company announced the appointment of vice presidents of operations at its three casinos. It also named four team members to key corporate leadership positions. 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) -   Matthew Ferrara, the sales manager for Altenar, explored the changing demands of new sports bettors in a fireside chat at the NEXT Summit New York on March 11. Press release.- On March 11, Matthew Ferrara, Altenar’s Sales Manager for North America, participated in the Fireside Chat: The Next Generation of Sports Bettors at the NEXT Summit New York, with fellow panelists from Fanatics and Stokastic. The conversation centered on a major industry transformation: the emergence of a new cohort of bettors who are accustomed to mobile-first, instant, and inherently digital experiences, and who demand the same from their sports betting platforms. Betting is now part of the entertainment ecosystem For this demographic, betting has always been an online, immediate activity. It is inherently mobile, available on-demand, and woven into their everyday digital routines. As the panel highlighted, placing a bet is no longer an isolated action. It is an element of a wider entertainment landscape, influenced by social connection, live interaction, and a sense of community. Users are engaged in more than just betting. Their activities include: sharing predictions in group chats experiencing live events collectively interacting with content while they bet This evolution alters the function of the product for operators. It transitions from being a mere utility to an integral component of the total user journey. Expectations are set outside the betting industry A central topic was the fact that sportsbooks now face competition beyond their own sector. The benchmark for user expectations is set by top-tier digital products from every industry. Attributes like speed, simplicity, and a fluid user experience are now considered standard requirements, not differentiators. Any form of friction, particularly during peak activity times, has a direct negative effect on customer retention. Personalisation is becoming critical Matthew Ferrara pointed out a common shortfall in many sportsbook offerings: the presentation of content and betting markets. “Presenting a recreational user with a sportsbook containing 3,000 options can be overwhelming.” The issue lies not in the volume of markets, but in their poor organization and lack of personal relevance. For bettors accustomed to customized feeds on other digital platforms, sportsbook interfaces must advance to offer similar personalization. “Our digital experiences are tailored to our behavior. Sports betting should follow the same principle,” Ferrara stated. For Altenar, addressing this involves a focus on: accelerating the delivery of pertinent markets minimizing the necessity for users to search manually developing a more instinctive, user-centric experience Building around operator needs Flexibility was emphasized as a crucial factor throughout the talk. In a constantly evolving market, product development must be dynamic. Altenar's strategic direction is informed by: the specific needs of operators shifting market conditions insights into competitor activity ongoing product refinement driven by market demand “We analyze the wider digital environment to understand current user expectations, track evolution in social media, ecommerce, AI, and daily apps, and determine how to incorporate those benchmarks into the sportsbook,” Ferrara explained. The market's trajectory is unequivocal. Sportsbooks must adapt to the next generation of bettors; these users will not adjust to outdated platforms. This adaptation requires: reduced friction increased relevance more intuitive interactions deeper integration with users' existing digital content habits Operators who embrace this approach will gain a stronger advantage in attracting and keeping users amidst growing competition. 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 has introduced its Superbet sportsbook and igaming offerings, managed by a local team. Greece.- Super Technologies, a global gambling group headquartered in Romania (previously known as Superbet Group), has debuted its Superbet brand in the Greek market. Both its igaming and sportsbook services have been launched via a local operations team. The firm noted that Greece is a primary target for its growth plans across Central and Southern Europe. This expansion comes after its acquisition of MaxBet Online, aimed at bolstering its Romanian operations. Adam Lamentowicz, the Chief Commercial Officer for Central and Eastern Europe, characterized Greece as a “mature and flourishing market,” stating that this debut is “more than just a standard market entry.” Lamentowicz remarked, “This represents a long-term pledge to develop the nation’s most captivating entertainment environment and unite individuals through the thrill and collective enthusiasm for sports.” John Kalamvokis, General Manager for Superbet Greece, further commented: “We are beginning the opening chapter of what will be a successful journey, driven by significant collaborations and community-focused initiatives.” The Greek platform for Superbet will include a sportsbook for tennis, basketball, and football, providing live and pre-match wagering. The organization emphasized its adherence to regional laws and customized service, providing native experiences for both mobile and desktop users. There are approximately 20 licensed operators in Greece, where Stoiximan (owned by OPAP) controls nearly 50% of the online sports wagering sector. Additionally, Allwyn recently finalized its merger with OPAP, establishing itself as the second-largest publicly traded lottery firm globally following its Greek stock exchange listing. 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) -   LiveScore Group has revealed that its betting brand is expanding beyond the UK for the first time. South Africa.- LiveScore Group has confirmed the launch of the Virgin Bet brand in South Africa. This move represents the brand's inaugural international expansion and serves as the initial phase of its global growth initiative. Virgin Bet has been active in the UK wagering sector since 2019. According to LiveScore, South Africa was selected for this expansion due to the nation's vibrant sports culture and the increasing need for regulated betting options. The group already maintains a presence in Africa through its LiveScore Bet brand in Nigeria. The operator intends to provide an extensive selection of betting markets, along with promotional incentives and perks associated with the wider Virgin brand. In the UK, Virgin Bet has utilized sponsorships extensively, including collaborations with TNT Sports for UEFA tournaments and title sponsorships for prominent horse racing events. The company has emphasized responsible gambling as a fundamental aspect of its South African debut. The virginbet.co.za website features various safeguards, such as self-exclusion options, time-outs, and deposit limits, in addition to rigorous age verification protocols. This emphasis may prove vital as the government increases its oversight of the industry. Data from the National Gambling Board indicates that 66 percent of South African adults currently engage in online betting, a significant increase from 30 percent in 2017. Furthermore, the government has suggested increasing the tax on online gambling revenue to 20 percent. The local management team features Gail Odgers as Head of Marketing. “Entering the South African market is a significant milestone for us,” stated Odgers. “At Virgin Bet, we are committed to the idea that ‘A Good Bet’ involves providing exceptional customer experiences while upholding our obligations to our players and the community.” “South Africans have a profound passion for sport. Whether it involves rugby, football, or cricket, sport is central to daily life. This enthusiasm is what makes this market so compelling for us. Our objective is to responsibly elevate that experience by providing outstanding moments and rewards, while establishing a high benchmark for responsible gambling from the outset. We are dedicated to fostering trust and presenting Virgin Bet in a manner that inspires confidence among South Africans.” 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) -   Several of the region’s most prominent gaming industry associations have united to establish a new trade body. Serbia.- The Balkan Gaming Federation (BGF), a newly formed entity, has been established by leading gaming industry associations across the Balkans. This new organization is designed to highlight the region's market potential on an international scale and to enhance collaboration through the alignment of strategic goals. The seven founding members of this new collective are AGOS from Serbia, AOGGAB from Bulgaria, HUPIS from Croatia, ROMSLOT from Romania, GPIS from Montenegro, UPIS RS from Bosnia and Herzegovina, and MAK GEJMING from North Macedonia. These organizations formalized their agreement by signing a Memorandum of Cooperation in Belgrade. Collectively, the seven members represent a diverse range of stakeholders, encompassing both online and land-based gaming operators, as well as suppliers and manufacturers. Their collaborative efforts will focus on addressing illegal gambling within the region, promoting fair competition, facilitating the exchange of best practices, and engaging in legislative discussions. Additionally, they plan to organize joint events with the objective of attracting investment into the sector. A significant number of the BGF's founding members are also affiliated with the European Gaming and Amusement Federation (EUROMAT). The establishment of the BGF occurs at a time when various regulatory changes are being implemented across the region, with some of these changes indicating divergent approaches. For instance, Serbia has enacted legislation permitting licensed domestic operators to offer jackpots, a move intended to encourage greater participation in the regulated market. In contrast, Bulgaria and Romania are currently deliberating on the introduction of more stringent controls, including proposals to increase the minimum gambling age from 18 to 21. Montenegro has recently experienced industry opposition to a sudden government proposal that would alter the taxation of gambling winnings, and Bosnia and Herzegovina is considering the removal of its VAT exemption for gambling operators. Last year, Croatia introduced a new national self-exclusion scheme. 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) -   Ahead of SiGMA South America, Olga Resiga, Chief Business Development Officer at SOFTSWISS, discussed the country’s regulated market evolution over its first year. Exclusive interview.- SOFTSWISS is preparing to participate in SiGMA South America on April 6-9, in São Paulo, Brazil. Ahead of the event, Focus Gaming News spoke to Olga Resiga, chief business development officer at SOFTSWISS, about the evolution of the regulated market in Brazil over its first year and the company’s role in the region. She also discussed the significance of major sporting events such as the FIFA World Cup for operators, and the main challenges they face. SOFTSWISS had a strong year in Brazil in 2025. How has the company been aiding the evolution of the newly regulated market? SOFTSWISS has played a key role in shaping Brazil’s regulated market from the early stages. The company was among the first to receive certification for its Game Aggregator, setting an early benchmark for compliance and reliability. In its first year, SOFTSWISS secured over 30 agreements, covering a significant share of Brazil’s newly regulated operator landscape. Beyond technology, the focus has also been on helping partners adapt to regulation and promoting responsible gaming as a core part of doing business. What’s your take on the first year of regulated online betting in the country? What stands out most is just how dynamic the market has been. It’s evolving quickly and doesn’t allow anyone to get too comfortable – the rules, expectations, and player behaviour are all shifting in real time. “In its first year, SOFTSWISS secured over 30 agreements, covering a significant share of Brazil’s newly regulated operator landscape.” Olga Resiga, chief business development officer at SOFTSWISS. At the same time, the growth has been quite structured, which is a positive sign. But to keep that momentum, it’s crucial for the industry, operators, and regulators to remain in constant dialogue. This collaboration is what will help the market develop sustainably – rather than becoming overregulated to the point where players are pushed back towards unlicensed options. We’re approaching a major summer season with the FIFA World Cup hosted across America. What does the tournament mean for operators’ tech requirements? A World Cup is a defining moment for the entire industry. It goes far beyond traffic spikes – operators need infrastructure that can sustain continuous, high-intensity loads, ensure fast response times, and keep payments and risk systems running flawlessly under pressure. This is where scalable architecture and proven solutions become critical, especially when handling peak concurrency across multiple markets. It’s also a global event for which companies prepare their marketing strategies well in advance. For betting operators, this means aligning technology with large-scale campaigns and user acquisition efforts. Success ultimately comes down to preparation – rigorous testing, optimised user journeys, and ensuring every system performs seamlessly when demand peaks. How can operators turn peak betting activity into longer-term retention? The real challenge begins after the final whistle. A major tournament brings a surge of new users, but the goal is to build lasting relationships with them. This requires a thoughtful approach to communication, personalisation, and product experience beyond the event itself. For the industry, it’s crucial not to lose momentum once the tournament ends. Operators that continue engaging players – through tailored offers, cross-product experiences, and consistent interaction – are the ones that successfully convert short-term activity into long-term loyalty. “A major tournament brings a surge of new users, but the goal is to build lasting relationships with them.” Olga Resiga, chief business development officer at SOFTSWISS. What role does the Chief AI Officer play in shaping SOFTSWISS’s AI-driven development going forward? AI has already been deeply embedded across SOFTSWISS’s products and operations for some time – from risk management and fraud detection to player behaviour analysis and operational efficiency. The appointment of a Chief AI Officer marks the next step in this evolution, bringing greater structure, alignment, and strategic focus to these efforts. Rather than introducing AI as a new direction, it is about scaling existing capabilities and ensuring they deliver consistent, measurable impact across the business. At the same time, there is a strong emphasis on governance, transparency, and accountability – ensuring that AI systems are not only effective but also controlled and aligned with business goals. Ultimately, AI is not an add-on but a foundational layer of how SOFTSWISS operates, builds products, and continues to scale. 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 Conferenza Unificata is currently reviewing the final details for the much-anticipated reform of Italy's land-based gaming regulations. Italy.- The Council of Ministers is anticipated to release the final draft of its legislative decree concerning land-based gambling in Italy on April 10, following years of discussions. The Conferenza Unificata, an institution representing Italy's 20 regions and 110 municipalities, is presently examining the last concessions. Last year saw a restructuring of the online gambling framework in Italy, with a new licensing process concluded in November. The upcoming land-based gaming reforms will introduce a more unified regulatory framework for the sector, replacing the current fragmented approach. These reforms will include stricter regulations on venue operating hours and minimum distance requirements. Under the new concession model for land-based gambling activities, gaming machine operations will require a minimum bid of €25 million for packages that include 4,000 AWPs and 900 VLTs. Retail betting shops will have the option to apply for bundles of 25 licenses, each priced at €60,000, with a base bid of €1.5 million. Bingo hall licenses will have a starting bid of €350,000 per venue. Licensed operators will be required to adhere to a certification system, and venues must be situated at least 100 meters away from sensitive locations, such as schools. Oversight will be enhanced through a permanent committee dedicated to monitoring problem gambling. Additionally, tighter anti-money laundering controls will be implemented, overseen by the regulator, the Customs and Monopolies Agency (ADM). The reforms have experienced delays due to negotiations with regional and municipal authorities regarding the distribution of tax revenue. Agreements have been reached to provide regions with an initial €80 million through a revenue-sharing arrangement stipulated by the 2026 Budget Law. The protracted negotiation process has led to temporary extensions for current gaming, betting, and bingo concessions. The hope is that the reforms will be officially approved by August 29, bringing this period of extensions to an end. According to the local industry news outlet Agipro, gaming machine tax revenue decreased by €250 million in 2025. This decline has raised concerns that the delays in drafting the reforms may be contributing to the growth of the unlicensed market, which is now estimated to be worth €30–35 billion across both retail and online channels. In parallel, the communication watchdog Agcom has accepted proposed recommendations to establish a formal framework for responsible gambling messages. The agency now intends to initiate a one-month public consultation on the proposed guidelines for how operators should present responsible gambling messages to the public. 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 NCAA had applied for an emergency temporary restraining order to prevent the betting operator from utilizing its trademarks. US.- A federal judge has turned down the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s (NCAA) attempt to prevent DraftKings from using registered trademarks connected to its men’s and women’s basketball tournaments. The NCAA had lodged a complaint in an Indianapolis federal court seeking an emergency temporary restraining order to bar the company from using the terms March Madness, Final Four, Elite Eight, and Sweet Sixteen. Judge Tanya Walton Pratt decided that the NCAA did not demonstrate that the platform’s use of the terms would lead to irreparable harm. However, she remarked: “With further discovery the NCAA may be able to show it is entitled to a preliminary or permanent injunction, and those claims remain pending.” DraftKings maintained that the terms were “the universally recognised names for the tournaments and their rounds, used by millions of college basketball fans, journalists, and participants in the sports-betting ecosystem. They are the same words used by other online sportsbooks, who have not been singled out by the NCAA’s fevered complaint.” 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 winning individual will be revealed by the end of May. Press release.- The 1xAffiliates team has initiated a large-scale giveaway for a legendary Rolex GMT-Master II. The winner will be revealed at the end of May during a private event at MAC Yerevan. Time is money, and Rolex is status The Rolex GMT-Master II stands as a symbol of dependability and achievement, ideal for leaders in the igaming industry and global celebrities. It was sported by Apollo 13 pilot John Swigert and the pilots of the iconic Pan Am. "Prepare to become an owner today," the company stated. How to get into the game? Qualifying phase (March 15 – April 14). To advance to the main competition, you must bring in at least 200 new players (FTD) within a month. Accumulate X-chance (beginning April 15). Following qualification, each set of 10 extra FTDs will earn you one virtual entry. The greater the traffic you drive, the higher your odds of winning. Finals in Yerevan (May 25–27). A shortlist of five finalists will be selected from all participants with higher X-chance counts. The winner will be revealed at a private 1xAffiliates event at the end of May, featuring insights and opportunities for profit. Weekly bonuses To make the countdown to the finals more exciting, 2000 USDT will be awarded weekly through a draw among active partners. A fantastic incentive to maintain your efforts! Why choose 1xAffiliates? One of the world’s largest affiliate networks, bringing together over 500,000 partners, offering a lifetime revenue share of up to 50% and weekly payments. Each partner is assigned a personal manager to address any inquiries. Prepare your traffic, secure your tickets to Armenia, and claim your status reward from 1xAffiliates! Focus on Armenia! As your traffic expands, we’re getting your status reward ready. Book your tickets and join 1xAffiliates. 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 MEGA Islands system enables players to construct and expand their personal islands, gather rewards, and advance through an ongoing journey specifically crafted to boost player retention across both casino and sportsbook offerings. Press release.- Soft2Bet has unveiled MEGA Islands, the newest component of its MEGA Suite, developed to enhance player retention throughout its platform. This innovative engine incorporates a continuous progression layer that persists between gaming sessions, providing players with a consistent incentive to return via island construction, resource gathering, and advancement. Initially featured in Soft2Bet’s recent Lodur launch, the MEGA Islands system is founded on a continuous progression layer that extends across multiple sessions. Players gradually cultivate their own island, acquiring resources through gameplay which can then be utilized to erect new structures, enhance current ones, and unlock subsequent progression phases. Every upgrade reveals fresh objectives, transforming brief playtimes into extended advancement. Furthermore, MEGA Islands incorporates plundering mechanics, establishing an alternative route within the experience. Players have the option to raid islands to acquire extra resources and further develop their own, thereby maintaining an active progression cycle as they move forward. Lacking a definitive conclusion, the engine aims to foster recurring engagement via a straightforward cycle of construction, acquisition, and advancement. Yoel Zuckerberg, CPO at Soft2Bet, commented: “MEGA Islands is engineered to ensure retention feels organic by offering players a progression journey they are eager to revisit. When players have the ability to construct their personal island, gather resources, and unlock enhancements through plundering, every session integrates into a more extensive experience. This furnishes players with a compelling motive to return, simultaneously equipping operators with a retention instrument that seamlessly integrates across both casino and sportsbook platforms.” The introduction of MEGA Islands underscores Soft2Bet’s ongoing commitment to gamification as a catalyst for sustained expansion. As an integral component of the MEGA Suite, this novel engine provides operators with an additional method to cultivate more compelling player experiences, extended engagement periods, and enhanced consistent value within highly competitive 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) -   Pragmatic Play has released Jelly Express, a new 6×5 slot game featuring candy train wilds, multipliers reaching up to 100x, and a customizable bonus round with win potential of 5,000x. Press release.- Pragmatic Play has debuted Jelly Express, a slot game featuring a gummy bear conductor steering a locomotive across a candy-themed landscape. Embarking on a colorful journey across 6×5 reels, Jelly Express is packed with entertaining features aimed at rewarding players. Landing 8-12+ matching symbols anywhere on the grid delivers base game wins of up to 50x, while candy train wilds boost payouts with multipliers reaching 100x. The excitement increases when three coin scatter symbols appear, activating the bonus game and giving players six feature options to choose from. Each alternative offers a distinct mix of free spins (maximum 25) and wild multipliers (maximum 100x), plus a random mystery pick is available to heighten the sweet anticipation. During the feature, obtaining an additional scatter can randomly trigger Super Free Spins, where the candy train above the reels gathers wild multiplier values. This accumulating total multiplier applies to all later wins that include a wild, revealing a delicious win potential of up to 5,000x. Alongside two bonus buy options, players in certain markets gain more control over their rail journey through three special bet features. These options boost the probability of reaching free spins, ensure wilds appear on each spin, or increase win potential with minimum 10x wild multipliers that accumulate during tumbles. Jelly Express represents Pragmatic Play's newest major slot release, succeeding popular titles like Sweet Rush Bonanza and Fortune of Olympus. Sharon McHugh, PR director at Pragmatic Play, commented: "Jelly Express is poised to provide a unique gaming experience, centering players in the midst of the action through its vibrant candy land theme, wild multipliers, special bets, and captivating bonus elements." 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) -   LiveScore Group has officially introduced Virgin Bet to South Africa, marking the brand's first international expansion outside of the United Kingdom. The new online platform, found at Virginbet.co.za, aligns with LiveScore Group’s strategic objective to increase its footprint across Africa, according to a company statement on Monday. Operations for the new site will be managed from the group’s established betting hub in Nigeria, which also handles the LiveScore Bet brand. The continent's premier regulated gambling landscape South Africa is recognized as the largest regulated gambling market in Africa, with oversight provided by both national and provincial regulators. According to the National Gambling Board (NGB), the country saw 1.5 trillion South African Rand ($89 billion) in total wagers during the 2024/2025 fiscal year, representing a 31.3% rise from the previous year. The sports betting sector made up 75% of these wagers, while casinos accounted for 19.5%. Bingo and limited payout machines (LPMs) contributed 1.8% and 3.6%, respectively. As of 2024, the gambling industry supported approximately 34,316 jobs, per NGB data. Meanwhile, South Africa’s National Treasury has proposed a 20% tax levy for digital gambling, suggesting a transition toward a more regulated and higher-tax environment for online betting—a move that has faced opposition from the industry. A focus on player safety and responsibility The operator stated that the new platform features various player protection tools, such as self-exclusion, time-out periods, and deposit limits. To ensure regulatory compliance and user assistance, the site will utilize age verification and a dedicated local support staff. Gail Odgers, the head of marketing for Virgin Bet South Africa, commented on the launch, stating that the company is dedicated to establishing a trustworthy brand that South African players can rely on. Additionally, the firm has committed to launching local corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs focused on advocating for safer gambling within the community. The South African site is designed to cater to the nation's large and growing sports betting audience, with a particular emphasis on major sports like rugby, cricket, and football. Odgers further noted that the local passion for sports, which are a staple of daily life, makes South Africa a highly attractive market for the company. 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.