Spanish gambling regulator DGOJ announces €950,620 research fund on gambling harm

(AsiaGameHub) -   A competitive grant program totaling €950,620 has been unveiled by the Spanish Ministry of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs and Agenda 2030. The initiative aims to finance studies focused on the prevention, impacts, and risks tied to gambling. Published in the official state gazette, the Boletín Oficial del Estado (BOE), the call for proposals will be managed by the Directorate General for the Regulation of Gambling (DGOJ). A wide array of research institutions is encouraged to apply. Eligible participants encompass public and private universities, health bodies, non-profits, and development centers. Prospective applicants must show a proven track record in gambling-related research. As part of its regulatory strategy, the DGOJ has placed growing emphasis on studying gambling harm, especially regarding younger age groups and the intersection of gaming and gambling mechanics. The DGOJ’s Safe Gambling Programme (2026-2030), launched in March, specifically raised concerns about behavioral patterns linked to loot boxes, social casino offerings, and other hybrid gaming elements that might normalize gambling for minors and young adults. Furthermore, the government has stressed the need for gender-sensitive research and interventions, citing evidence that gambling harms impact demographics differently and necessitate customized prevention approaches. Key research priorities Submitted proposals are required to focus on one of six specific themes: Identifying individuals displaying high-risk or severe gambling behaviors early on; Harm caused to individuals, families, or society by gambling, covering mental health and financial challenges; Creating tools, mechanisms, or processes designed to reduce the negative effects of gambling; The link between the video game industry and gambling, with a focus on lotteries, chance-based games, poker, and betting; The structural traits of businesses involved in lotteries, games of chance, poker, and betting; How gender influences high-risk or severe gambling behaviors. The start date for research projects cannot be before 1 January 2026, and they must be completed by 30 June 2027. Consultation regarding the Gambling Regulation Act Additionally, the DGOJ opened a public consultation this week regarding amendments to the Gambling Regulation Act aimed at tightening rules on the use of celebrities or influencers in gambling ads. Under the proposed changes, gambling operator advertisements would only be visible if a consumer performs a direct online search for betting brands. Reforming gambling advertising has been an ongoing trend in Spain's gambling sector. A 2020 Royal Decree outlawed gambling sponsorships and strictly limited TV and radio advertising to a watershed between 5am and 1am. Although the initial decree banned the use of celebrities and influencers in ads, this restriction was annulled in April 2024, along with other measures. Studies conducted last summer indicated that new online gambling registrations had dropped by more than 50% since the Royal Decree took effect. In 2023, 1.35 million new accounts were opened, representing a 55% decrease from the 3.01 million recorded in 2020. Kathryn EvansKathryn reports on concise breaking news, mainly covering EMEA and US legislation. She is a proud North Walian, speaks Welsh fluently, and has been a lifelong Wrexham FC fan, well before Hollywood took notice. 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.

Relax Gaming launches Purrrminator Dream Drop to fuel jackpot excitement

(AsiaGameHub) -   This latest entry in the company’s extensive portfolio is crafted to appeal to every type of player. Press release.- Relax Gaming has unveiled the newest installment in its successful Dream Drop series, Purrrminator Dream Drop, merging feline excitement with high-stakes ‘must drop’ jackpot action. The release comes at a time when the Dream Drop series is enjoying record momentum, having already created 30 MEGA Jackpot millionaires, each taking home a life-changing top prize. This run of wins has reached its fastest pace this year, with four major payouts triggered in rapid succession, confirming that the offering is livelier and more rewarding for players than ever. Purrrminator Dream Drop joins a distinguished and fast-expanding Dream Drop lineup, with the ever-growing portfolio now featuring 50+ game choices from six studios. It stands alongside recent successes such as Cod of Thunder, delivering a wide variety of themes and mechanics that keep Relax at the industry forefront. The Dream Drop feature extends appeal to casual players and jackpot enthusiasts alike from the very first spin and has gained strong popularity among operators and players worldwide. The game centers on the furry feline lead character rounding up local street dogs, enabling players to create connections by matching three or more adjacent symbols. The Reverse Avalanche feature activates after a connection is made, keeping the strongest wins on the grid to further boost winning potential. Tony O’Mahony, chief product officer at Relax Gaming, said: “Purrrminator Dream Drop injects fun, high-energy play into our jackpot lineup. Adding Dream Drop gives players a chance at our life-changing jackpots!” 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.

MozzartBet Deploys Fast Track’s AI-Driven CRM Platform

(AsiaGameHub) -   MozzartBet has implemented Fast Track’s real-time CRM platform across its operations in the Balkans, Romania, and Africa to boost player engagement and broaden its multi-market footprint. Press release.- MozzartBet, one of the major sports betting and gaming operators in South-East Europe, has activated the Fast Track CRM platform, deploying it across its brands in the Balkans, Romania, and Africa. MozzartBet functions within multiple regulated markets, with brands present in Serbia, Bosnia, Croatia, Romania, Malta, Kenya, and Nigeria. This launch represents the next phase of MozzartBet’s player engagement strategy, as the operator continues to expand its multi-market presence and enhance the experience delivered across its brands. Nemanja Savkovic, COO at MozzartBet, stated: “From the outset, we have been genuinely impressed with Fast Track. Their team grasped our operations, our markets, and our objectives—and the platform has met those expectations. Our CRM team is already executing campaigns in ways that were previously impossible, across all our markets, and we are enthusiastic about what this partnership will enable us to build for our players moving forward.” The launch provides MozzartBet’s team with a unified real-time customer model across its brands, along with Fast Track AI—the platform’s natural-language and agentic-workflow features that allow operators to interact with the platform conversationally and delegate end-to-end CRM tasks to AI agents. Simon Lidzén, co-founder and CEO of Fast Track, remarked: “What MozzartBet has achieved across the Balkans and Africa is truly impressive. We are strongly aligned with their vision for the future, and we will continue to do everything possible to support them in realizing that vision.” 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.

Play’n GO’s latest launch, Treats of Terror II, transforms an ’80s arcade into snack-fueled horror

(AsiaGameHub) -   Play’n GO has released Treats of Terror II, a new 5x5 grid slot game with an 80s retro arcade theme, serving as a sequel that introduces a sentient Gobstopper character. Press release.- Play’n GO amplifies the neon and the threat with Treats of Terror II, a 5×5 slot set in a nostalgic 1980s American arcade where the snack foods have turned dangerous. With its sticky floors, whirring machines, and the familiar glow of screen cabinets, this is the environment where teens once disappeared for hours-long high-score sessions. In Treats of Terror II, the concessions have become aware. They are conscious, they are angry, and they refuse to remain mere background decoration for endless gaming. At the heart of the mayhem is the Gobstopper – a voracious, rolling monster with a clear goal: seek out the arcade's most desired rewards and devour them completely. It's a sugary cartoon nightmare, where the prize counter glows like a distant beacon and the atmosphere feels perpetually on the edge of chaos. Treats of Terror II fully embraces that Saturday-morning cartoon aesthetic taken to a dark extreme. Bright candy colors contrast with deep shadows, prize tickets dance like lures, and the arcade's cheerful mascot vibe sours into something much more sinister. The game is whimsical, gritty, and filled with nostalgic touches that evoke the scent of soda and the sound of falling coins. This sequel follows the original Treats of Terror, which was set in a haunted movie theater, and trades flickering film projections for the buzz of arcade lighting. It maintains the developer's flair for stylized horror while moving the action into a more vibrant and intense locale. Magnus Wallentin, games ambassador at Play’n GO, stated: “Treats of Terror II is based on a straightforward concept – the nostalgia of comfort food, followed by a sudden shock. The arcade is bright, amusing, and a little gross in a charming way, and the Gobstopper ensures the environment never stays comfortable for too long.” Treats of Terror II is an ode to classic arcades, but one with a vicious bite – here, the snacks don't merely look back at you, they hunt you down. 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.

Oddsgate Unveils a Free, Real‑World‑Based igaming Business Plan

(AsiaGameHub) -   Oddsgate’s new Business Plan package provides operators, affiliates, and investors with the structured framework the igaming industry has long lacked, and it is available completely free of charge. Press release.- The global igaming industry generated over $643bn globally in 2025. Even so, the majority of new operations still fail within their first year, not because the market does not exist, but because a solid plan was never put in place. Closing this specific gap is what Oddsgate has built its reputation on. The B2B platform provider, which supports licensed operators across regulated markets worldwide, has channeled its existing hands-on operational expertise into a free, professional-grade Business Plan package: three integrated tools built to help anyone entering or scaling in the igaming space do so with structure, clarity, and solid foundations from day one. The package, which includes a Checklist, a Template, and a comprehensive Guide, follows the same core approach Oddsgate uses when working side-by-side with its partners. The Checklist acts as a rapid diagnostic tool, giving operators and investors a clear picture of how their current planning measures up against the core requirements of a compliant, scalable operation. The Template provides a structured, editable framework aligned with real industry standards, built around correct terminology, the proper decision sequence, and the actual logic that governs how igaming businesses are built and funded. The Guide goes deeper into details, walking through each section with context that only comes from direct hands-on experience: what commonly gets overlooked, what investors actually look for, and where most operators make costly, incorrect assumptions. Tiago Almeida, CEO of Oddsgate, said: “Most operators don’t fail due to a lack of technology, but rather due to a lack of strategic planning. The market has become far more competitive and demanding, with higher acquisition costs, increased regulatory pressure, and a level of operational complexity that is often underestimated.” The tools are purpose-built for new operators and betting startups preparing to enter the market, affiliates considering launching their own platforms, technology companies exploring igaming expansion, and investors evaluating opportunities in the space. What these groups share is rarely a shortage of ambition or capital, but the absence of a structured operational framework to turn both into a fully functioning business. The stakes of getting this foundation wrong are significant. With the global online gambling segment projected to exceed $121bn in 2026, the opportunity is real, but so is the accompanying pressure. Rising acquisition costs, fragmented regulatory environments, and increasing operational complexity mean that success is no longer a matter of speed to market. Instead, it depends on how well the core fundamentals were planned before launch. “Without a solid foundation, operators tend to react instead of execute,” Almeida adds. “We consistently see projects with strong technology but no clear strategy behind them, and that compromises their success within the very first months.” igaming remains one of the most complex regulatory environments in the world. Each jurisdiction, and often regions within the same country, operates under distinct rules governing licensing, taxation, advertising, and player protection. Entering the market without a clearly defined structure is not only inefficient; it is a measurable source of risk. The Business Plan package is one example of how Oddsgate addresses this challenge alongside its partners, combining deep market knowledge with practical, hands-on support at every stage of an operation’s development. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

Pragmatic Play unveils giant wilds in The Big Dog House

(AsiaGameHub) -   Pragmatic Play has broadened its slot portfolio with the debut of The Big Dog House, which introduces colossal wilds and offers a maximum payout of 15,000x. Press release.- Pragmatic Play has introduced the beloved canine crew in The Big Dog House, extending the popular series with colossal wilds and 15,000x win potential. Familiar characters appear on a 5×3 grid, where wild symbols come with 2x or 3x multipliers and can appear as expanded 1×3 or colossal 3×3 icons. Landing three paw scatters initiates the bonus round, where nine spinning barrels can award up to 27 free spins. During this feature, all wild multipliers become sticky, except for ghost wilds, which appear on reel five and can eliminate sticky wilds from reels 2-4. Triggering the bonus game with a green or blue paw scatter unlocks specific bonus modifiers. The Biggie modifier ensures that any wilds landing on reels 2-4 are either expanded or colossal, while the Ghost Out modifier removes ghost wilds from the feature, leaving only sticky wilds in play. An extensive range of special bets and bonus buys are also available to players in specific markets. Ante bets increase the probability of triggering free spins, super bets boost the chance of wilds appearing during base game spins, and bonus buys provide immediate entry to the bonus game with any combination of modifiers. The Big Dog House further extends one of Pragmatic Play’s most successful slot franchises, which includes notable titles such as The Dog House Megaways, The Dog House – Dog or Alive, and The Dog House – Royal Hunt. Sharon McHugh, Director of Public Relations at Pragmatic Play, commented: “The Big Dog House takes our beloved doggos on a fresh adventure, with the introduction of colossal wilds – alongside special bets and bonus buys in select markets – helping players secure wins of up to 15,000x.” 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.

Netherlands councillor demands a rise in the legal gambling age due to a surge in youth debt

(AsiaGameHub) -   An escalating debt crisis among young people in the Dutch city of Enschede has led local CDA (Christian Democratic Party) politician Meryam Sümer to advocate for nationwide measures to hike the legal minimum age for online gambling from 18 to 24. As reported by local outlet AD on Monday, she has also demanded stricter curbs on buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) services and gambling advertisements. Youth debt and advertisements Recent municipal figures referenced by councillor and welfare worker Sümer indicate that one in five young people in Enschede is currently in debt. The city documented 12,145 reports of problematic debt in 2025. Of these, 960 cases involved people facing potential eviction or having their essential utilities cut off. Municipal authorities proactively worked with roughly 4,000 residents in financial distress, equating to about one-third of all cases. This engagement rate is significantly higher than the national average of approximately 20%. Sümer pointed to readily available credit and pervasive online gambling access as key drivers of these financial struggles for Dutch youth. She remarked: “Many youngsters do not yet have the financial awareness to handle multiple subscriptions, instalment purchases, and gambling offers that pop up on social media and in mobile games,” cautioning that these elements together create “serious problems” within the community. Sümer further singled out gambling ads as a persistent concern. The Netherlands has enforced strict gambling advertising rules since 2013 under the Decree on Gambling Recruitment, Advertising and Addiction Prevention, which introduced a ban on gambling ads in public spaces in 2022. Furthermore, the decree forbids advertising targeting anyone under 24. However, a recent study discovered that 31 out of 277 advertisements on Meta platforms (11.2%) were aimed at age groups including 18 to 23-year-olds. Gambling age increase to 24 Reacting to these patterns, Sümer has called for legislation to raise the minimum age for online gambling from 18 to 24. She conceded that while an outright ban on such products would be ideal, it is not a realistic short-term prospect. “The key is to reduce temptations (‘verleidingen’),” she stated, pushing for stronger regulations to protect young people from exposures that could result in problematic gambling or mounting debt. Sümer is not the first to propose raising the gambling age. In February of last year, former state secretary for legal protection Teun Struycken put forward a plan to increase the age limit for online slots to 21. This proposal was coupled with an age-based restriction on overall deposit limits. The idea faced opposition. The chairman of the Dutch gambling regulator (KSA) cautioned against the move, arguing it could push young people toward the black market. “We already see minors doing so. And for young people under 21, the illegal supply will still be accessible with a few mouse clicks, while they will no longer be able to enter legal parties, which must adhere to a strict duty of care,” he wrote in a blog post in February 2025. A phased approach? A parliamentary debate followed a month later. Struycken recommended a gradual implementation of the age change to avoid driving youths toward illegal gambling markets. During the discussion, Christian Union leader Bikker expressed reservations about raising the gambling age, stating it would be hard to enforce for a single vertical like slots. She proposed a universal age limit of 21 for all forms of gambling instead. Elevating the minimum age for gambling and credit to 24 would be without precedent in Europe, where 18 is the commonly accepted norm. Councillor Sümer is now encouraging other municipal representatives and political parties to lobby national lawmakers for regulatory changes. 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.

New Firms Poised to Join Chilean Casino Concession Bids

(AsiaGameHub) -   This development coincides with a report indicating a decrease in land-based gaming revenue across Chile. Chile.- As the tender process for new casino operating licenses commences in the municipalities of Iquique, Coquimbo, Viña del Mar, and Pucón, recently established firms appear poised to join the contest in Coquimbo and Pucón. According to Diario Financiero, a private investment fund overseen by Alza is anticipated to bid for the concession to manage the Hotel & Casino in Coquimbo, which Enjoy vacated last August. This month, the Octium fund formed the new entity Casino de Juegos de Coquimbo via two subsidiary firms. The Gaming Control Board initiated the tender in February and is evaluating proposals to award a 15-year operating license for the venue. The deadline for bid submissions is set for August 11, 2026, at 10am. Regarding Pucón, another site formerly run by Enjoy, Diario Financiero disclosed the formation of a private corporation named Casino Volcán Pucón SA. The corporation's founders include Andrés Raggio Guerrero, previously Treasury Manager at Enjoy and currently Finance Manager at Clínica Las Condes, along with Inversiones Gran Pucón SpA (with Raggio as its primary representative). Land-based gaming in Chile The latest annual report from the Asociación Chilena de Casinos y Juegos (ACCJ) indicates that gross gaming revenue from land-based operations in Chile decreased by 4.5 percent year-on-year, reaching CLP509.8bn (€514m) in 2025, with tax revenues simultaneously declining by 4.7 percent to CLP214m. In 2025, Chile had 25 operational casinos: 22 sanctioned by Law 19.995 and three municipal sites undergoing transition. Despite this consistent presence, casino attendance saw a 7.2 percent drop, totaling 926,873 visits. Concurrently, the ACCJ's report estimates the unregulated online gambling market generated $3.1bn. Online gambling lawsuit The 16th Civil Court of Santiago is presiding over a lawsuit initiated by Latamwin, which claims unfair competition against La Polla Chilena de Beneficencia. The Curaçao-licensed operator lodged the complaint in April 2024, challenging the legal and administrative actions advanced by Polla Chilena to restrict access to online betting platforms within Chile. In his testimony, Carlos Baeza, spokesperson for the Chilean Association of Online Betting Platforms (aPAL), contended that the state-owned company's actions harmed operators' reputations and aimed to eliminate market competition. “Polla Chilena does not oppose online betting; rather, it opposes competition within online betting,” Baeza declared in court. He asserted that “no law in our legal framework forbids all forms of gambling,” and noted that the Public Prosecutor’s Office opted not to proceed with several lawsuits concerning alleged illegal gambling. For the defence, former president of Polla Chilena de Beneficencia, Macarena Carvallo, maintained that she never issued remarks specifically targeting the operator, clarifying that her public statements consistently addressed online platforms broadly. The former executive also defended La Polla Chilena’s advisories regarding gambling addiction and problem gambling, asserting these were grounded in research financed by the Responsible Gambling Corporation. Moreover, she admitted that a campaign was initiated during her leadership, portraying Polla as “the sole legal Chilean betting company,” though she attributed this choice to the sales and marketing division. 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.

Iowa Enhances Authority to Combat Unlicensed Gambling Operations

(AsiaGameHub) -   Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has signed Senate File 2289 into law, giving the state's Racing and Gaming Commission the power to crack down on unauthorized sweepstakes and other unlicensed betting operations. US.- With the enactment of Senate File 2289, Iowa has expanded the regulatory reach of the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC) to target unauthorized betting platforms. Approved by Governor Kim Reynolds, this legislation empowers regulators to hand out cease-and-desist notices and pursue injunctions against any business providing "games of chance, gambling, sports wagering, or illegal sweepstakes" without the necessary licensing. While states like Indiana, Maine, and Oklahoma chose to outlaw sweepstakes casinos directly through dual-currency definitions, Iowa has instead integrated the term “illegal sweepstakes” into its current gambling statutes. Legislative journey and revisions The legislation enjoyed strong bipartisan backing, clearing the Senate 44-0 and the House 93-0. Following an amendment that reduced the IRGC's reimbursement fund from US$ 70,000 to US$ 45,000, the Senate gave its final approval with a 47-0 vote. To finalize the bill, legislators pushed the session past its scheduled April 21 adjournment. IRGC Director Tina Eck had earlier pointed to sites like MyBookie and Bovada as typical examples of unauthorized operators that the commission could not prosecute under previous regulations. Parallels with Nevada's regulatory approach Iowa's new framework shares similarities with Nevada's SB 256, passed in 2025, which increased punishments for unlawful gaming and allowed the seizure of revenue generated from illegal operations. Rather than implementing outright bans, both states have opted to classify sweepstakes casinos as unlicensed gambling. Following the passage of SB 256 in Nevada, the majority of sweepstakes casinos reportedly withdrew from the state's market. Nationwide crackdown on sweepstakes Iowa's legislative action coincides with a growing nationwide push against sweepstakes gaming. While Indiana, Maine, and Oklahoma have enacted outright bans, similar bills in Tennessee and Louisiana are currently awaiting executive approval. Meanwhile, legislative efforts stalled this year in several other states, including Florida, Maryland, Minnesota, Mississippi, Massachusetts, and Virginia. Prohibitions were also established last year in California, New York, and New Jersey. 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.

JP Morgan Chase cuts its holding in Entain

(AsiaGameHub) -   The banking giant briefly held an increased 7 per cent state in the UK gambling giant. UK.- JP Morgan Chase has reduced its holding in the London-listed gambling operator Entain to under 3 per cent merely 10 days after increasing its position to 7 per cent. A filing confirmed that the US banking giant had dropped below the 3 per cent reporting threshold. The rise in the stake occurred after another shareholder, Ricky Sandler’s Eminence Capital announced plans to liquidate. Sandler resigned as a non‑executive director last month and sold his 5.8 per cent interest in Entain on May 7. JP Morgan soon began lowering its position with sales executed on May 12, 13, 14 and 15. Entain’s share price remained stable during this period, closing at 532.4p on May 15. Entain’s challenges It has been a difficult period for Entain’s stock price, worsened by the recent rise in Remote Gaming Duty in Britain and Ireland, which has also impacted the business, leading to plans to close a third of Ladbrokes shops in Ireland. Shares closed higher at 535p today but remain down by 30 per cent year‑to‑date. Entain is maintaining its full‑year 2026 outlook with a target of 5 to 7 per cent growth in online net gaming revenue (NGR). It expects £1.13bn in group EBITDA (excluding BetMGM fees) and at least £500m in adjusted annual cash flow by 2028. Q1 revenue increased by 3 per cent year‑on‑year, driven by an 8 per cent rise in volume. Online NGR grew by 5 per cent, with igaming revenue up 9 per cent while sports betting revenue declined by 1 per cent due to weaker margins. The quarter ending March 31 showed strong results for the UK and Ireland online business, where NGR rose 13 per cent while retail NGR slipped 1 per cent. In the CEE region, NGR fell 6 per cent, with online down 1 per cent and retail plummeting 30 per cent. BetMGM, Entain’s joint venture with MGM Resorts, reported Q1 net revenue of $696m, up 6 per cent. 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.

Oklahoma Legislature Overrides Veto to Ban Online Sweepstakes Casinos

(AsiaGameHub) -   Oklahoma's Legislature has overturned Governor Kevin Stitt's veto of Senate Bill 1589. Online sweepstakes casinos are now prohibited in Oklahoma, following the Legislature's successful override of Governor Kevin Stitt's veto of Senate Bill 1589. This proposal had already passed both legislative chambers earlier this year. Governor Stitt had argued that the bill was “so broad that it criminalizes everyday apps people use for fun” and “unnecessarily creates a new felony and extends criminal liability to businesses and service providers.” Nevertheless, the Senate passed it with a 34-10 vote, and the House followed with a 68-19 vote, both surpassing the two-thirds majority needed to override Stitt's veto. The measure, introduced by Senator Gollihare, expands Oklahoma's definition of gambling to encompass “online casino games” played via computers, mobile phones, or tablets. Additionally, the bill modifies the definition of a “representative of value” to include dual-currency systems convertible into cash, prizes, or their cash equivalent. Under the bill, any individual involved in opening, conducting, or supporting these games—including operators, employees, geolocation providers, platform suppliers, promoters, or media affiliates—will face charges for a Class C2 felony. Penalties for this offense will include fines ranging from $500 to $2,000. 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.

DraftKings will stop in-person sports betting at Wrigley Field

(AsiaGameHub) -   The Chicago location will no longer provide face-to-face sports wagering services. US.- DraftKings has chosen to halt its physical betting operations at the DraftKings Sportsbook at Wrigley Field in Chicago, Illinois. According to the firm, this move comes after an evaluation of its retail footprint in the state. While the establishment is set to stay open, physical sports wagering will be phased out. Customers have until May 31 to submit their final in-person wagers. Launched in March 2024, the betting facility is situated at the intersection of Addison Street and Sheffield Avenue, on the southeast side of Wrigley Field. It features 32 self-service betting terminals, seven physical teller windows, and a massive video wall spanning over 2,000 square feet. During the first quarter ending March 31, DraftKings generated $1.65 billion in revenue, marking a 17 percent rise compared to the previous year. This growth was driven by strong user acquisition and engagement, alongside improved net revenue margins for its sportsbook. 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.

Sweden’s gambling earnings see modest increase in Q1

(AsiaGameHub) -   Growth in the online gambling segment offset the gap left by lost land-based casino revenue. Sweden.- Spelinspektionen, the Swedish gambling regulator, has announced that operators holding a valid Swedish licence brought in total gaming revenue of SEK 6.7bn (€615m) in the first quarter of this year. This marks a 0.8 per cent rise compared to the same quarter in 2025, pointing to an ongoing slowdown in growth momentum following full-year growth of 1.3 per cent in 2025 and 2.65 per cent in 2024. The preliminary Q1 figure is calculated as total player wagers minus total payouts over the three-month period ending March 31. Commercial online gaming and betting recorded revenue of SEK 4.44bn (€407.5m), up from SEK 4.30bn in Q1 2025. State lottery and slot machine games generated SEK 1.27bn, a drop from the SEK 1.32bn posted in the same quarter last year. Lotteries for public benefit remained largely stable at SEK 863m, while charity bingo revenue stayed flat at SEK 47m, and land-based commercial gaming revenue saw a negligible increase to reach SEK 57m. The year-on-year comparison was also impacted by the closure of the last remaining Casino Cosmopol venue in Copenhagen, which had generated SEK 27m in revenue during Q1 2025. By the end of the first quarter, nearly 138,000 people were blocked from accessing gambling services in Sweden via the self-exclusion platform Spelpaus.se. This marks a 2.6 per cent increase from the figure recorded in the previous quarter. Separately, the Swedish government has appointed Mattias Pleiner, vice-chairman of the Svea Court of Appeal, as a new member of the board of Spelinspektionen, the Swedish Gambling Authority. The appointment will remain in effect until March 31, 2028. 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.

Online betting generates €196.8m for Brazil in Q1, Access to Information request reveals

(AsiaGameHub) -   Figures indicate the substantial contribution of betting activities to state revenue generation in Brazil. Brazil.- Information acquired through the Access to Information Law (LAI) reveals that the Brazilian federal government amassed R$4.17bn (€713.9m) from gaming and gambling operations during the first quarter of 2026. From this sum, over R$1.15bn (€196.8m) was generated specifically by online fixed-odds betting, referred to as the Bets regime. These statistics, derived from official tax collection records detailing receipts from January to March of the current year, were furnished by the Federal Revenue Service following an LAI submission by Pay4Fun, a Brazilian digital payment platform and virtual wallet. Breaking down the total betting revenue for the quarter, R$ 994.7m constituted direct tax contributions to the federal government, with R$ 142.3m coming from revenue contributions and R$ 12.8m earmarked for the health sector. Leonardo Baptista, CEO and co-founder of Pay4Fun, commented: “The figures demonstrate that betting holds a significant position in both government revenue collection and the broader economic landscape, with over R$ 1.15bn generated in the first quarter within what is clearly an expanding market. This expansion is directly attributable to the advancement of regulation, which has introduced greater transparency and predictability to the industry.” Baptista further emphasized the imperative to intensify efforts against the illicit market and strengthen responsible gambling programs. Conversely, the overall revenue exhibited a progressive decline over the quarter. Government collections from games and bets amounted to R$ 2.07bn in January, subsequently dropping to R$ 1.08bn in February, and further to R$ 1.01bn in March. Online fixed-odds betting, however, displayed a distinct trend. January saw online bets generate approximately R$ 368m, which then increased to R$ 443m in February, before decreasing to R$ 338m in March. Beyond sports betting, other contributions included R$ 13.5m from the Federal Lottery, R$ 6.6m from LOTEX, and R$ 6.2m from the Sports Lottery. Igaming and online sports betting have been regulated in Brazil since early last year. Nevertheless, political opposition has emerged, primarily driven by worries regarding consumer debt. President Lula da Silva, who approved online gambling legislation in late 2023, has expressed a desire to prohibit online casino gambling within Brazil. Furthermore, some legislators have advocated for a full repeal of the existing regulations. Just last month, Workers’ Party (Partido dos Trabalhadores) deputy Pedro Uczai put forward Bill PL-1808/2026, which aims for a nationwide ban on all forms of online 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.

Kalshi Becomes Platinum Member of National Council on Problem Gambling

(AsiaGameHub) -   The company is set to back a strategic initiative focused on trader well-being and safety with a $2 million investment. US.- The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) has announced a $2 million, two-year investment from the prediction market platform Kalshi for a program centered on trader health and safety. Kalshi will join the NCPG as a Platinum-level member and will be the first organization in a new Financial Services and Trading subcategory. Kalshi’s contribution is intended to help fund consumer education campaigns, raise awareness of the warning signs associated with problematic behavior, and encourage responsible trading and sound decision-making. It will also become a member of NCPG’s Leadership Circle. The NCPG stated that it maintains a neutral stance on the legality of prediction products. Heather L. Maurer, executive director of NCPG, commented: “NCPG’s goal has always been to mitigate harm by increasing education, awareness, and understanding of risky behaviors, while ensuring access to trusted, scientific, and evidence-based information and healthcare resources. Innovation and responsibility can and must evolve together. Kalshi’s engagement demonstrates a commitment to mitigating harm before it occurs and ensuring support resources are accessible when they are needed.” Tarek Mansour, co-founder and CEO of Kalshi, added: “At Kalshi, we believe in the power of prediction markets, and we are sensitive to the fact that they, like any financial trading products, come with risks. As prediction markets continue to evolve, we are deeply committed to setting a new standard for responsible trading by investing in the tools, education, and protections needed to promote healthy participation and customer safety and hope that over time all trading platforms with significant retail participation follow suit.” Earlier this year, the NCPG called upon prediction market operators in the US to promote the National Problem Gambling helpline. 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.

Minnesota bans prediction markets, first state to outlaw such platforms

(AsiaGameHub) -   Governor Tim Walz has enacted legislation that criminalizes platforms such as Kalshi and Polymarket. U.S.- Minnesota has officially banned prediction markets, becoming the first U.S. state to make platforms facilitating the purchase and sale of contracts linked to future political, economic, or social outcomes illegal. The measure was signed by Governor Tim Walz after securing strong bipartisan support and is set to take effect on August 1, 2026. While other states have issued cease-and-desist notices or regulatory warnings, Minnesota’s new law establishes a general ban on the operation and advertising of prediction markets not authorized by the state. Markets focused on weather-related events remain permitted, following agricultural stakeholders’ insistence on the importance of such data for risk management. CFTC response The move comes amid a conflict between state-level authorities and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), which views prediction markets as financial products. Anticipating the governor’s signature, the CFTC filed a federal court lawsuit seeking to block the law before it becomes active. In a statement, Chairman Michael S. Selig described Minnesota’s action as “the most aggressive move by a state to shut down CFTC-regulated markets and undermine the federal regulatory framework established by Congress more than 50 years ago.” Selig warned that the legislation would turn lawful operators and participants into “felons overnight” and criticized the state for ignoring the role prediction markets play in providing hedging tools for farmers and innovators. The CFTC has already sued other states, including Arizona, Connecticut, Illinois, and New York, over attempts to regulate or ban prediction markets. Supporters of the Minnesota bill argue that gambling regulation should remain a state prerogative. Representative Emma Greenman, who sponsored the legislation, said: “We as a state should decide what regulations to apply to gambling and how best to do so, to protect public safety and our kids.” Platforms and controversies Prediction market operators like Kalshi and Polymarket reject the characterization of their products as gambling, instead asserting they are financial instruments with historical precedent. They maintain that state gaming laws should not apply to their operations. The controversy has been fueled by cases of insider trading, where individuals with non-public information profited from wagers on geopolitical events. A recent example involves the arrest of a U.S. special operations soldier accused of making over US$400,000 betting on Venezuelan political outcomes while allegedly involved in covert missions. 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.

A growing number of igaming exhibitors are attracted to BEGE 2026

(AsiaGameHub) -   Scheduled for November 25–26 at the Inter Expo Centre, the BEGE 2026 exhibition will implement structural updates to accommodate rising demand from the igaming industry. Press release.- BEGE has been a foremost gaming and entertainment exhibition in the Balkans and Europe for over 17 years, uniting global companies, tech leaders, manufacturers, operators, and professionals. It stands as a top-tier platform for business expansion, innovation, and strategic alliances across all gaming industry segments. For its 2026 edition, BEGE is seeing increased engagement from igaming companies, as more leading online gaming brands secure their spots at the event. This pattern mirrors the continuous evolution of the market and the growing importance of digital solutions in the worldwide gaming sector. The online segment has shown consistent expansion in recent years, and BEGE keeps pace with the industry's shift by tailoring its format to align with modern trends and commercial requirements. Consequently, the exhibition will make organic, incremental changes to its layout, fostering superior prospects for networking, collaboration, and the display of new ideas. These modifications will not impact the exhibitors and partners who have backed BEGE for the past 17 years. The organizers deeply appreciate all longstanding collaborators and are dedicated to evolving the platform as a convergence point for every part of the gaming industry. BEGE 2026 is set for November 25–26 at the Inter Expo Centre, gathering key regional industry figures once more. The event will provide chances for professional networking, sharing insights, and exhibiting the newest technology driving the sector forward. 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.

BC.GAME launches Football Cup 2026 campaign offering over $2 million in rewards

(AsiaGameHub) -   The campaign will feature sportsbook promotions, betting events, and tournament-related activities. Press release: BC.GAME has unveiled its Football Cup 2026 campaign, which includes major prize giveaways, sportsbook promotions, tournament leaderboards, and football-inspired rewards throughout the Football Cup season. BC.GAME has formally kicked off its Football Cup 2026 campaign, marking the start of a new football season with over $2 million in total rewards available across sportsbook promotions, betting events, and tournament activities. The campaign will span the entire Football Cup season, encompassing early warm-up sessions, tournament leaderboard competitions, sportsbook promotions, and post-tournament reward events. Major rewards in the BC.GAME Football Cup 2026 campaign The BC.GAME Football Cup campaign offers an extensive range of rewards, including physical items, cryptocurrency incentives, cash prizes, and sportsbook bonuses. Headline rewards include: Ferrari 296 GTB WC2026 Final ticket packages, including flights and hotel accommodation Apple prize bundles, including MacBook Pro, iPhone, Apple Watch and Airpods Max 999.9 gold bars BTC rewards Real cash rewards Free bets and free spins Lottery tickets Football Cup promotions on BC.GAME Sportsbook The initial phase of the BC.GAME Football Cup 2026 campaign includes multiple early promotions already active on BC.GAME Sportsbook. Kick Off Leaderboard centers on eSoccer (Virtual Sports) and ranks participants by their total wagering amount. This event boasts a $20,000 Real Cash prize pool, with rewards distributed to the top 100 participants. Welcome Pack is available to new users joining the Football Cup campaign. Users who complete registration, make an initial deposit of at least $10, and place a Football Cup sports bet will unlock the first-bet insurance reward system. Additional BC.GAME Football Cup promotions will be rolled out continuously throughout the tournament season. Upcoming activities include the Football Cup Tournament Leaderboard (featuring a $500,000 prize pool), streak rewards with up to 650 free bets, daily odds boosts, bet builder bonuses, and more football-themed sportsbook events. BC.GAME CEO Kar Kheng Giam (KK) stated: “The World Cup is one of the biggest moments in global sport, and we want to make this season more engaging for our users. This campaign brings together major prizes, football-related rewards, and ongoing sportsbook activities throughout the tournament.” The BC.GAME Football Cup 2026 campaign is now live, with more Football Cup promotions, sportsbook rewards, and football-themed events set to be announced during the season. Disclaimer: This campaign is independently organized and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or officially connected in any way to FIFA, the FIFA Football Cup 2026, or any associated entities. Any references to the FIFA Football Cup 2026 are for descriptive purposes only. All trademarks and rights are the property of their respective owners. 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.

TaDa Gaming launches high-energy coin action in Lucky Caramelo

(AsiaGameHub) -   Football-inspired mechanics, coin collection features, and jackpot rewards contribute to dynamic gameplay. Press release.- TaDa Gaming is launching Lucky Caramelo, a new game inspired by football that combines rapid coin mechanics with engaging bonus features and significant winning potential. The game promises an exciting experience with a maximum win potential of up to 10,000x. Set against a lively football backdrop, Lucky Caramelo features a compact 3-reel, 3-row layout with 5 fixed paylines, designed for quick gameplay and frequent interaction with its features. The core gameplay revolves around collecting coin values and activating bonus mechanics that build momentum throughout each session. Central to the game are Soccer Coin symbols, which appear on reels one and three and display multipliers ranging from 1x to 12x. These values are collected by the Soccer Bonus Coin symbol on reel two, which serves as both a collector and a trigger. When these symbols align, the collector gathers all visible coin values on the reels, resulting in instant payouts and reinforcing a straightforward collect-and-win cycle. This same symbol also activates the Lock and Respin bonus when coins land across all reels. In this feature, the collected coin values carry over into the bonus round, where only special symbols are present. With three initial respins that reset each time new symbols land, players can continuously build and accumulate rewards until the feature concludes, offering high engagement and substantial win potential. Jackpot mechanics further enhance the gameplay, offering fixed prizes such as Mini, Minor, Major, and Grand jackpots, which can reach up to 1,000x the bet. These jackpots are integrated directly into the coin system, ensuring consistent opportunities for high-value outcomes during both base game and bonus play. Adding another layer of excitement is the Soccer Coin Toss feature. As coins are collected, they contribute to a progress bar situated above the reels. This bar can randomly trigger, releasing additional coins back onto the grid. This mechanism creates sudden bursts of activity and increases the likelihood of triggering bonus features. Players also have the option to activate the Extra Bet option to enhance their gameplay. This feature merges collection effects and boosts both coin frequency and the rate at which bonus features are triggered. This option is tailored for players seeking faster progression and more frequent high-impact moments. With its straightforward structure, football-inspired theme, and multi-layered coin mechanics, Lucky Caramelo provides a balanced experience that appeals to both casual players and those who enjoy deeper feature interaction. Sean Liu, director of product management at TaDa Gaming, stated: “Lucky Caramelo effectively combines familiar coin collection mechanics with a football theme that injects energy and momentum into every round. The bonus system is designed to keep players engaged while clearly outlining paths to achieving bigger rewards.” Available in over 15 languages and supporting more than 100 currency options, Lucky Caramelo is now accessible for play on all devices in Brazil. 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.

Alberta iGaming Corporation appoints Dan Keene as permanent CEO

(AsiaGameHub) -   Alberta's regulated online sports betting and iGaming market is slated to launch on July 13. Canada.- Dan Keene has been appointed as the permanent Chief Executive Officer of the Alberta iGaming Corporation (AiGC), having previously served in an interim capacity. He had been the vice-president of gaming at the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission (AGLC) since 2022. The AiGC is set to launch Alberta’s regulated iGaming market on July 13. The organization highlighted Keene's crucial contribution to shaping the province’s gaming environment. His previous experience includes serving as the AGLC’s manager of Casino Products. Before joining AGLC, he worked at Molson Breweries and Century Casinos. Sanjeev Kad, the board chair of Alberta iGaming Corporation, stated: “Dan brings extensive operational experience and a strong track record in gaming and market development. His leadership will be crucial as the Alberta iGaming Corporation prepares for its launch and establishes a regulated market founded on social responsibility and player protection.” Alberta is poised to become the second Canadian province to feature a commercial online gambling market, following Ontario, which initiated iGaming in April 2022. 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.