分類: iGame
Arizona’s March sports betting handle falls 5.7% compared to the previous year
(AsiaGameHub) - Bettors wagered $836.9 million, down 5.7 percent year-over-year.
US.- The Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) has released sports betting figures for March. Bettors wagered $836.9 million, down 5.7 percent year-over-year and down from February 2026. The state collected $4.8 million in event wagering privilege fees for the month.
There are 14 licensed event wagering operators and 14 licensed fantasy sports operators in the state. For fiscal year 2026 year-to-date, regulated event wagering and fantasy sports have generated $47.8 million in privilege fees: $46.7 million from event wagering and $1.1 million from fantasy sports. Since the launch of legal sports betting in Arizona in 2021, people have wagered $33.9 billion, generating $179.9 million in privilege fees.
US District Judge Michael Liburdi recently barred Arizona from applying its gambling statutes to prediction markets. He granted a preliminary injunction on May 5, siding with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ), declaring that wagers on future events qualify as federally regulated "swaps."
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Codere Online posts record first-quarter performance
(AsiaGameHub) - Spain and Mexico fueled record quarterly net gaming revenue for the operator.
Spain.- Codere Online reported its strongest first-quarter results to date, achieving new records in net gaming revenue (NGR) and adjusted EBITDA, driven by continued momentum in Spain and Mexico. Net NGR for the three months ending March 31 increased by 13% year-on-year to €64.4 million, while adjusted EBITDA reached a historic high of €6 million.
The key markets of Mexico and Spain continued to drive performance. In Mexico, NGR grew 13% to €34 million, while Spain contributed €25.5 million. Growth was supported by a 20% rise in average monthly active players in Mexico and a 13% increase in Spain.
NGR from the company’s “Other” segment, which includes Argentina, Panama, and Colombia, declined slightly by 2% to €4.4 million, with adjusted EBITDA falling 3% to €26.3 million.
Codere previously paused new investments in Colombia due to the implementation of a 19% Value Added Tax (VAT) on online gambling deposits in February 2025. This tax has since been revised and replaced with a lower 16% consumption tax following legal challenges. In March, lawmakers introduced a 10% levy on online gambling revenues in Panama.
Overall, Codere Online posted a net income of €7 million, marking a turnaround from a €0.7 million loss in the same period last year. CFO Marcus Arildsson described the quarter as “a clear step forward in profitability,” noting that the company ended March with €56.2 million in cash and no outstanding financial debt.
Based on current performance, the company reaffirmed its full-year 2026 outlook, projecting net gaming revenue between €235–245 million and adjusted EBITDA of €15–20 million.
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UK launches the country’s largest independent gambling harms research centre
(AsiaGameHub) - The new centre has stressed its independence and remit to focus on “lived and living experience” of gambling harms.
UK.- The launch of the UK’s largest independent gambling harms research centre has been announced by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), a national funding agency sponsored by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT). The Gambling Harms Research UK (GHR-UK) Evidence Centre will be funded by the new British Gambling Levy introduced last April with the aim of directing “world-leading research on how to tackle and prevent gambling harms”.
The GHR-UK Evidence Centre will work with government, health bodies, charities, and people with lived experience of gambling in an effort to generate evidence-led research. It will be led by Heather Wardle, Professor of Gambling Research and Policy at the University of Glasgow and involved partners at King’s College London, University of Sheffield and Swansea University.
The remit of the centre is to:
Manage a comprehensive and innovative research programme on gambling harms
Build capacity in gambling harms research
Collaborate with stakeholders
Explore how UKRI and other data assets can support generating new evidence
Coordinate the cohort of GHR-UK Innovation Partnerships
Wardle described the project as a “vital reset“.
“For too long, gambling research has been under-resourced and overlooked. New funding through the Levy and UKRI marks a vital reset, strengthening the quality and scale of gambling harms research and ensuring policy is driven by rigorous, independent evidence. Putting lived experience at the heart of our work, we look forward to collaborating widely to deepen understanding of and reduce the serious harms associated with gambling.
Focus on lived experience
UKRI stressed that the new Evidence Centre will draw on the knowledge and experience of people with lived and living experience of gambling harms. This is intended to ensure the research will not sit in isolation but actively shape prevention and treatment initiatives funded through the levy.
Martin Jones has been appointed as lived experience lead. He is said to have personal insight into addictive gambling products, having directly experienced the devastating impact of gambling-related suicide. He has since been involved with a wide range of research, education and treatment organisations and charities, UKRI said.
Jones said: “Research isn’t an intellectual exercise sitting in isolation, it is and should be closely linked to real gambling harms affecting real people, as many of us know all too well. We need to do much more to prevent these harms, and coordinating top quality research will support this, especially by exploring the more complex areas around suicide, algorithms, and financial data.”
The GHR-UK Evidence Centre will also form partnerships, including with health agencies and charities. One of its main roles will be to coordinate a cohort of 19 GHR-UK Innovation Partnerships covering a broad range of topics, including gambling harms and sports gambling online and in videogames and the structural drivers of gambling harm
Based at universities across the UK, the Innovation Partnerships will carry out research to fill gaps in the evidence base and support the development of responses to gambling-related harms. It’s intended that they will work closely to generate evidence, build research capacity, and inform policy and practice across the UK, while training the next generation of gambling harms researchers.
Independence from industry interests
UKRI emphasised that independence from commercial gambling interests is fundamental to the work of the centre. GambleAware, the now defunct body that previously commissioned gambling harm research, treatment and prevention in the UK, had received criticism due to its direct dependence on voluntary industry backing.
“A strong governance and integrity framework safeguards this autonomy, ensuring the Centre operates without external influence and remains a credible and trusted source of research on gambling harms,” UKRI said.
“As the UK’s first research Centre on gambling harms that is free from industry involvement, the Centre’s independence guarantees that the evidence produced by GHR‑UK remains protected from external commercial interference.”
UK Gambling Levy structure
The Gambling Levy funding is split across three strands: treatment, prevention, and research. The Gambling Commission is responsible for collecting and administering the gambling levy under the strategic direction of the government.
UKRI and the Gambling Commission are responsible for investing 20 per cent of the Gambling Levy funds in the research strand, which amounts to £22.1m for 2025-26.
Meanwhile, half of the funds from the levy are administered by NHS England and equivalent bodies in Scotland and Wales for treatment and support, and the remaining 30 per cent dedicated to prevention is handled by the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities (OHID).
Gambling harm research plans
As well as the new Evidence Centre, the research stream is so far funding 32 rapid evidence reviews, 19 new Innovation partnerships, and four UKRI policy fellows. Further investments are planned for the future, including in research into the convergence between gambling and video gaming.
UKRI said harmful gambling’s burden on the UK economy is conservatively estimated at around £1.4bn per year, impacting the healthcare and criminal justice systems as well as generating individual impacts. It said a lack of high‑quality independent evidence on gambling-related harms is a major barrier to effective policy, prevention, and treatment.
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Here it is Paris: Paris Saint-Germain are Ligue 1 champions for the fifth year in a row!
(AsiaGameHub) - Press release.- Paris Saint-Germain, official partner of 1xBet, has retained its crown to claim the title of France’s top team for the 14th time in the club’s history.
Captivating title race + landmark victory in Le Classique
Last season’s Ligue 1 demonstrated the Parisians’ complete supremacy. Luis Enrique’s squad wrapped up the title before the season concluded, ending nearly 20 points ahead of their closest rivals. This season told a different tale, serving up loads of drama for supporters. The championship was settled at the end of the campaign via a head-to-head showdown between France’s top two sides.
Lens enjoyed an outstanding season, mounting a fierce challenge against the defending champions, but the Parisians ultimately prevailed to take home their 14th league crown. Luis Enrique’s team successfully retained their title in impressive fashion, delivering thrilling, attack-focused performances in every fixture. Before the winter break, Paris Saint-Germain had already shattered the club’s goalscoring record, scoring at least once in 40 straight home matches.
Meanwhile, the Red-and-Blues stayed receptive to daring tactical experiments and giving new players their first appearances. Across the first half of the Ligue 1 season, as many as 17 separate players found the back of the net for the side. Luis Enrique offered young prospects the opportunity to show what they could do, and they seized that chance completely. Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Désiré Doué stayed the standout performers of the Parisian setup, but this season saw Ibrahim Mbaye, Senny Mayulu and Quentin Ndjantou properly establish themselves as key contributors.
Another standout moment from Paris Saint-Germain’s victorious campaign was their 5-0 demolition of Olympique de Marseille on Ligue 1’s 21st matchday. This stands as the largest winning margin the Parisians have ever recorded in a Ligue 1 Le Classique fixture.
The Red-and-Blues have emerged as France’s highest-scoring team by a significant gap, and have paired their domestic league triumph with a spot in the Champions League final for the second year running. Luis Enrique’s team is widely regarded as the most aesthetically pleasing side in European football, as they don’t just pick up wins – they win in spectacular style.
1xBet extends its congratulations to Paris Saint-Germain on this thoroughly earned Ligue 1 title, and sends its best wishes to its official partner for the upcoming Champions League final!
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Why Execution Is the Foundation of Innovation in Affiliate Tech: Alex Bukin, ReferOn
(AsiaGameHub) - Focus Gaming News recently spoke with Alex Bukin, CEO at ReferOn, about the company’s execution-first approach to re-engineering legacy igaming infrastructure and fostering a culture of disciplined innovation.
Exclusive interview. There is a very real reason most companies leave legacy architecture alone: it is incredibly dense, and it dictates the boundaries of the entire sector. Escaping that trap means looking at a supposedly untouchable industry standard and deciding to build right through it. The ultimate differentiator is tackling the complex work the rest of the market actively avoids.
Focus Gaming News recently caught up with Alex Bukin, CEO at ReferOn, to talk about this execution-first mindset, and what it actually takes to build reliable, problem-solving, everyday infrastructure.
ReferOn is often described as a disruptor. From a management perspective, how do you foster a culture that is willing to ‘break the walls’ of traditional affiliate tracking?
“Disruption isn’t a one-off event; it’s a byproduct of disciplined management. At ReferOn, we foster a culture that constantly challenges existing paradigms by asking the ‘uncomfortable’ questions. Our team comes from all sides of the affiliate ecosystem, which means we use our own past frustrations as the roadmap.
“Our goal is to take those frustrations and engineer them out of existence, creating something intuitive and powerful. I’d call our internal engine ‘constant constructive dissatisfaction.’ We look at industry standards simply as ceilings to be broken.
“From a leadership perspective, this means hiring for an ownership mindset. I want architects who want to re-engineer how the industry communicates, rather than just ‘manage’ a platform. We’ve built a high-trust environment for ‘radical testing’ and execution, where the only true failure is staying comfortable with the status quo.”
“Most people think innovation is about the ‘Next Big Thing.’ I believe innovation is about the ‘Current Best Execution.’ At ReferOn, we are breaking the walls of legacy thinking by refusing to compromise on the tools our partners use to build their empires. We aren’t just participating in the industry; we are re-engineering its foundation.”
Alex Bukin, CEO, ReferOn.
You often speak about ‘uncompromised execution.’ In a fast-paced industry like igaming, how do you ensure that speed never comes at the expense of operational integrity?
“Operational integrity is the cornerstone of trust between ReferOn and our partners. In this business, speed alone is just a faster way to hit a wall. When we mark a delivery as ‘Done,’ it reflects an uncompromising execution that meets the highest industry standards.
“We’ve invested in a robust infrastructure from day one, allowing us to develop and scale at market speed while maintaining absolute stability. My mandate is clear: we prioritise the single source of truth our partners rely on over winning a quick press cycle. Integrity is the core product here; the software is the delivery mechanism for that trust. We move fast because the foundation is rock-solid, not because we’re cutting corners.”
Innovation usually meets resistance. As CEO, how do you lead your team through the process of challenging ‘the way things have always been done’ in the affiliate space?
“Resistance is almost always rooted in fear; fear of the unknown, or the fear of breaking a system that ‘mostly’ works for example. In our brainstorming sessions, we tackle this head-on. We are fortunate to have a team that is highly motivated to challenge the status quo, utilising rigorous POCs (Proof of Concepts) to validate our logic before a single line of production code is shipped.
“My role is to give the team the runway to build, test, and refine without pressure. We want to eliminate specific, day-to-day pain points for the managers using our software. When our partners realise their reporting is suddenly instant and perfectly accurate – when we completely remove a headache from their workflow – that initial hesitation disappears. That’s the moment where friction turns into momentum.”
What does it mean for a platform to be ‘uncompromising’ in 2026, and why is that mindset necessary for the next generation of igaming growth?
“The current landscape is highly sophisticated. Our partners deal with massive data volumes and need absolute clarity. Delivering estimates or struggling during peak traffic simply isn’t an option anymore.
“The next generation of growth belongs to the operators who treat their data like a liquid asset; it must be fluid, real-time, and 100 per cent accurate. An uncompromising mindset is necessary because the margin for error has disappeared. If your management tools are a compromise, your growth will be too. At ReferOn, we provide the infrastructure that allows our partners to scale without ever wondering if their foundation is going to crack.”
“Real innovation is just exceptional execution. At ReferOn, we give our partners the exact tools they need to run their businesses with total clarity and reliable data. We aren’t just participating in the industry; we are actively re-engineering how it operates.”
Alex Bukin, CEO, ReferOn.
Let’s talk about your data.
“As the industry’s data demands grow, ReferOn is building a smarter, cleaner way to handle affiliate management. To see this execution-first approach in action and talk about scaling your operations, book a meeting with the ReferOn team here.”
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Bragg Gaming Group announces first quarter 2026 financial results
(AsiaGameHub) - The firm has disclosed total quarterly revenue amounting to €25.7 million (equivalent to US$29.7 million).
Press release: Bragg Gaming Group has revealed its financial performance figures for the first quarter of 2026.
Q1 2026 financial highlights:
Revenue growth: First-quarter total revenue reached €25.7 million (US$29.7 million):
– Revenue from the Netherlands rose by 3.5% year-on-year, driven by a temporary boost from a fixed Player Account Management (PAM) contract with Entain Plc (LSE: ENTL);
– Revenue in Brazil climbed 33.3% versus the first quarter of 2025, supported by ongoing expansion in provider onboarding; and
– Recurring revenue in the United States grew 7.1% year-on-year, fueled by an expanded footprint of high-margin proprietary content. However, total U.S. revenue fell 12.1% because of one-time revenue in Q1 2025 linked to the company’s content and technology initiative with Caesars Entertainment for its online casino platforms; and
– Overall revenue increased by 0.6% year-on-year.
Operating loss, net loss, and adjusted EBITDA: First-quarter operating loss stood at €1.4 million (US$1.7 million), a €0.3 million (US$0.1 million) improvement over the €1.7 million (US$1.8 million) operating loss recorded in the same period of 2025. Net loss for the quarter was €1.2 million (US$1.4 million), or €0.05 (US$0.05) per common share— a 55% improvement from the €2.6 million (US$2.8 million) net loss (€0.11/US$0.12 per common share) in Q1 2025. Adjusted EBITDA for Q1 2026 was €4.0 million (US$4.6 million), corresponding to an Adjusted EBITDA Margin of 15.7%, versus €4.1 million (US$4.3 million) and a 16.0% margin in Q1 2025.
Q1 2026 and recent business highlights:
Extended Key Player Account Management (PAM) agreement in Europe: Bragg announced the extension of its existing end-to-end Player Account Management (PAM) platform and turnkey solution contract with Senator Group, a leading online casino operator in Croatia.
Chosen as preferred content delivery partner across a multi-brand, multi-jurisdictional portfolio: Leveraging a partnership that started in 2020 and has already resulted in successful launches in Romania, Belgium, Serbia, and Brazil, Super Technologies chose Bragg as its preferred content delivery partner. This collaboration will support Super Technologies’ aggressive expansion strategy by offering quick access to high-quality content and ensuring the technical and compliance readiness required for strict regulated markets. Shortly after, Bragg revealed it played a key role in Super Technologies’ successful entry into the regulated Greek market via its flagship Superbet brand— a major step forward in Bragg’s global growth plan.
Positioned for Finnish market liberalisation: Bragg entered into a full PAM platform and turnkey solution agreement with SuomiVeto, a new market player led by the founders of the successful BetCity.nl. Under this deal, Bragg will supply SuomiVeto with access to an extensive library of exclusive and aggregated casino games, a fully managed sportsbook, award-winning Fuze player engagement tools, and end-to-end managed marketing and operational services in Finland’s newly regulated igaming market— set to launch for private operators on July 1, 2027.
Leapt into an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-First Future: Bragg started developing the Bragg AI Brain, a data-powered AI engine aimed at enabling smarter decision-making and intelligent products across its ecosystem. This initiative is intended to lower the company’s overall cost structure, boost EBITDA growth, and guide it toward consistent net profitability.
Strengthened leadership team and changed board: Bragg appointed Morten Tonnesen as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), tasked with driving operational efficiency and executing the company’s bold AI-First transformation. It also promoted Garrick Morris to Executive Vice President of Global Content, US & Canada, with a focus on expanding content offerings. Additionally, Thomas Winter— a well-respected figure in the gaming industry— joined Bragg’s board of directors, replacing Kent Young, who retired from the board.
Executed a strategic restructuring to reduce cost structure and improve operating performance: Bragg finalized a strategic restructuring, which included a roughly 12% cut to its global workforce. This move is intended to realign the organization, optimize its cost structure, accelerate EBITDA growth, and reduce the time needed to achieve long-term net profitability. In Q1 2026, the company incurred around €0.7 million (US$0.9 million) in restructuring costs linked to employee termination expenses. It expects annual cash savings from staff cuts and other restructuring measures to reach approximately €4.5 million (US$5.2 million).
Ensured greater board alignment with shareholders: As of January 1, 2026, director fees are paid solely in deferred share units (DSUs) on a monthly basis, with no cash option available.
Entered into agreement for a transformational acquisition: Earlier today, Bragg announced it has entered into a binding agreement to acquire Drayton International (Drayton), a diversified gaming technology and content platform. Upon closing the deal, Matthew Davey— a prominent gaming entrepreneur— will join Bragg’s board as Non-Executive Chairman, enhancing the company’s leadership as it enters its next growth phase.
Matevž Mazij, chief executive officer for Bragg, commented: “We maintained strong execution across our business in the first quarter. However, in many respects, I think we’re just getting started as we work to finalize our potentially game-changing acquisition of Drayton. This deal, we believe, will position Bragg to lead the global gaming industry’s future— with the right team, top-tier technology, a refreshed brand, and a clear ‘games-first’ focus.”
2026 Outlook
Bragg Gaming Group reaffirms its full-year 2026 guidance: revenue is expected to range between €97.0 million and €104.5 million, with Adjusted EBITDA of €16.0 million to €19.0 million (corresponding to an Adjusted EBITDA Margin of 16.0% to 18.0%). The company noted that these projections do not account for any potential revenue or Adjusted EBITDA effects from the planned Drayton acquisition.
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Onlyplay launches its newest video slot, Pepper Coins
(AsiaGameHub) - The 3×3 video slot immerses players in a vibrant world filled with chilli peppers, glowing coins, and juicy fruit symbols.
Press release.- Onlyplay proudly unveils Pepper Coins, an electrifying 3×3 video slot where bold visuals and straightforward mechanics combine on every spin. The game plunges players into a vivid universe of chilli peppers, shimmering coins, and ripe fruit icons. Everything is fast-paced, colorful, and easy to understand from the very first spin.
The gameplay remains simple yet engaging—each symbol holds value, and every spin counts. With an RTP of 95.50%, a HIT rate of 11.50%, and medium volatility, the game delivers a well-balanced experience. Players enjoy consistent action with ample potential for significant wins.
Central to the game is the Hold and Win feature, where coins lock in place and build suspense progressively. Bonus symbols appear instantly with values ranging from 1x to 15x the bet, providing quick rewards. The Collect symbol gathers all Bonus and Jackpot values displayed on the reel, consolidating separate wins into a powerful payout.
The Bonus Game intensifies the focus—it activates when Bonus or Jackpot symbols land on reels 1 and 3, accompanied by a Collect symbol on reel 2. During this feature, only Bonus, Collect, and Jackpot symbols are present. This design keeps the action clear while emphasizing larger rewards.
Jackpot symbols—Mini, Minor, Major, and Grand—add depth to the gameplay. Each tier heightens excitement and offers opportunities for higher payouts. Every spin within the Bonus Game feels meaningful and fuels anticipation.
The Chili Feature introduces unpredictability—it can trigger both in the base game and during the Bonus Game. It may award multipliers, jackpots, or additional Bonus symbols, instantly enhancing the round. Wild symbols support the base game by replacing regular symbols, helping create more winning combinations and maintaining smooth gameplay flow.
“Pepper Coins is a clean, fast, and visually compelling slot that captivates players without overwhelming them with complexity. If you’re seeking a bright, dynamic game with clear mechanics and genuine win potential—this is a standout choice to explore,” concluded the OnlyPlay team.
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SOFTSWISS leadership to discuss brand and sportsbook growth strategies at NEXT Valletta 2026
(AsiaGameHub) - SOFTSWISS will be represented by its senior leadership at NEXT Valletta 2026, where they will discuss strategies aimed at driving growth in preparation for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Press release.- SOFTSWISS is set to bring its top executives to NEXT Valletta 2026 to examine how effective brand positioning and sportsbook engagement strategies can fuel growth ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Valentina Bagniya, chief marketing officer at SOFTSWISS, will begin the Marketing Hub with a keynote on establishing resilient brands in mature markets. Meanwhile, Olga Resiga, chief business development officer at SOFTSWISS, will participate in an industry panel focused on sportsbook audience engagement and retention leading up to the World Cup 2026.
The event, NEXT Valletta 2026, will take place from May 27–28 at the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta, Malta.
On May 27, Valentina Bagniya will deliver a keynote titled “Everyone Talks About Brand in Mature Markets – Few Actually Invest in It,” which will delve into why brand strategy becomes essential as acquisition costs rise and product differentiation diminishes. Drawing from SOFTSWISS’ real-world experience, the session will explore how operators can maintain long-term brand consistency while adapting to rapidly evolving market conditions.
Valentina Bagniya, chief marketing officer at SOFTSWISS, remarked: “While the industry frequently discusses branding, companies often cut back on it when markets become challenging. Many iGaming firms still view brand as merely decorative rather than a core business asset. This mindset no longer works in mature markets, where consumers face countless product choices and switching costs are nearly nonexistent. Building strong brands requires consistency and deliberate decisions, not just short-term creative campaigns.”
On May 28, Olga Resiga will join a panel discussion titled “The Battle for the World Cup Fan,” which will center on sportsbook engagement during one of the most active betting periods in the industry. The conversation will focus on how operators can manage increased traffic, attract new players, and retain users after the tournament concludes. Olga Resiga will share insights on how the SOFTSWISS Sportsbook team prepares for major events like the World Cup 2026—covering infrastructure readiness, audience engagement, and post-tournament player retention.
Earlier this year, SOFTSWISS launched a new API testing tool designed to help operators prepare for high-traffic periods during major sporting events. Additionally, the company received the Best Sportsbook Innovative Feature award at the SiGMA Awards South America 2026 for its Sportsbook Network Jackpot feature.
Olga Resiga, chief business development officer at SOFTSWISS, stated: “The 2026 World Cup will represent more than just a surge in traffic for operators—it will serve as a true test of product capability, infrastructure strength, and long-term player strategy. The brands that succeed during major tournaments aren’t always those spending the most on acquisition; instead, they are the ones who can convert temporary excitement into lasting engagement. In today’s environment—where players have endless options and shorter attention spans—retention, personalization, and seamless user experiences truly define competitive advantage.”
SOFTSWISS representatives will be available throughout NEXT Valletta 2026 to meet with operators and industry partners.
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Genius Sports files patent infringement lawsuit against SportsCastr
(AsiaGameHub) - On May 11, Genius Sports filed a lawsuit against SportsCastr alleging infringement of patents related to real-time graphics and interactive overlays used during live sports broadcasts.
The legal action was initiated in the Southern District of New York. The case centers on three patents originally developed by Second Spectrum, which Genius Sports acquired in 2021.
The disputed patents cover technology utilized by PANDA Interactive in its "PANDA Studio" software, which integrates live analytical data, graphics, and interactive elements onto broadcast footage of sporting events.
Genius Sports is pursuing a permanent injunction, treble damages for alleged willful patent infringement, and reimbursement of legal costs. The firm Kirkland & Ellis represents Genius Sports throughout this litigation.
This latest legal move adds another chapter to an ongoing dispute between the two companies.
In 2023, SportsCastr had previously filed a similar suit against Genius Sports and Sportradar over the same patents; all claims were mutually dismissed following a settlement reached in February 2026.
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DATA.BET Reports 91.4% Growth in Esports GGR for Q1 2026
(AsiaGameHub) - DATA.BET, a reputable provider of sportsbook solutions, is reporting a significant surge in esports betting activity. This trend, building on insights from the Sportsbook Report that indicated increasing player interest in less mainstream tournaments, is further validated by Q1 2026 results, which confirm the continued strong growth of this sector.
The most recent performance data highlights:
Growing demand within the market
Efficient and well-managed trading operations
Increased player engagement across all partner platforms
Substantial revenue increases and positive commercial outcomes
Esports demonstrated exceptional performance across all key metrics. When compared to Q1 2025, Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) almost doubled, and turnover saw a significant rise of 70.6%, bolstered by a notable improvement in margin efficiency.
Player activity saw widespread strengthening, with the number of placed bets increasing by 33.2% and combo bets experiencing an even more substantial jump of 72.1%, indicating a clear shift towards more complex betting behaviors among users. The active player base expanded considerably, and the average size of single bets also grew, suggesting increased user confidence and deeper engagement. The growth in combo bets was further supported by recent enhancements to the user experience of our Single Page Application (iFrame), which now simplifies the creation of multiple bets and improves the presentation and display of available events. Additionally, higher-value bets originating from premium partner platforms significantly contributed to the increase in average bet size.
Performance trends across major esports titles illustrate how player preferences and event schedules influenced the quarter. The four leading disciplines – CS2, Dota 2, League of Legends, and Valorant – all recorded robust double-digit growth in profit, turnover, bet counts, and active users.
Niche disciplines collectively achieved an impressive 245% increase in profit compared to Q1 2025, underscoring the breadth of the company's esports offerings. This trend was initially identified during the preparation of the Sportsbook Report and continues to be a surprising factor for the broader market, which often underestimates the commercial potential of disciplines beyond the most established ones. Rainbow Six emerged as a particular success, driven by the introduction of new betting markets, including combined Total Over + Win and Win First Half + Win Map, alongside a significant expansion in match coverage. This discipline has found a strong audience in Latin America, where DATA.BET has solidified its position as a leading provider of sportsbook solutions.
Rocket League continues to affirm its status as one of the most promising esports disciplines for betting, with even greater potential anticipated if official data coverage expands in the future. Despite Q4 2025 hosting the FIFAe World Cup, typically the year's premier event, Rocket League still achieved quarter-over-quarter growth, with turnover up 85.3%, bet counts rising 18.7%, and active players increasing by 50.1%. This was primarily fueled by the industry's most extensive and unique market offering, coupled with a 94% live coverage conversion rate.
Between the regional VCT Kickoff and Masters Santiago, Riot Games introduced a new format, the Valorant EMEA Clash 2026, inviting teams that did not qualify for Santiago, as well as second-tier teams from regional Challenger leagues. By filling a gap in the tournament schedule, this event saw strong year-over-year growth across key metrics and became a significant driver of new player acquisition, with newcomers accounting for 68.6% of all new players and 55.4% of total bets placed.
According to Bohdan Holovnov, Head of Esports at DATA.BET, this performance reflects strategic enhancements to products and trading operations that are aligned with player behavior:
High margin efficiency has been a significant catalyst this quarter. Partners are increasingly recognizing the substantial commercial returns that esports can generate, which is encouraging them to scale up promotional campaigns and direct more traffic to this vertical. This, in turn, leads to more new users, increased turnover, and stronger margins. Simultaneously, we continue to provide the most extensive match and discipline coverage available in the market, and the impact of this is also evident in the rapid growth of combo bets across our partner platforms.
Official data events saw a year-over-year increase of 5.2%, with the overall event calendar growing even more significantly to 10.8%, reinforcing the breadth of DATA.BET’s coverage. While top-tier events outperformed low-tier events considerably in terms of turnover, profit, and bet count, the volume of low-tier events also increased, particularly in CS2, as Valve’s restructured Major qualification system has led tournament organizers to schedule more new qualifying events.
Bohdan Holovnov, Head of Esports at DATA.BET, added:
Q1 of 2026 has established a new benchmark for the potential of esports betting. With GGR nearly doubling year over year, a player base expanding by over 56%, and increasingly sophisticated betting patterns, the vertical is maturing in precisely the right direction. We are heading into the remainder of 2026 with strong momentum, an expanding market portfolio, and partners who are consistently experiencing tangible commercial impact quarter after quarter.
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Games Global pays out €10 million King Millions™ jackpot to CasinoFriday player
(AsiaGameHub) - Games Global, a top provider of online gaming content and progressive jackpot experiences, has announced that a player at CasinoFriday won a substantial €10,475,169.87 on the Fire & Roses Joker King Millions™ slot.
This major win represents one of the largest payouts ever on the King Millions™ progressive jackpot network and stands out as a key highlight for the game’s community since its global launch.
Fire & Roses Joker King Millions™, developed by Triple Edge Studios and supported by the King Millions™ network, blends entertaining gameplay with the chance to win multi-million jackpots at any time.
This multi-million-euro jackpot awarded on CasinoFriday highlights the strength of Games Global’s King Millions™ offering and its ongoing delivery of premium progressive content across regulated markets.
The progressive jackpot network powering King Millions™ continues to grow worldwide, giving operators access to an expanding lineup of integrated titles connected to shared jackpot pools. Games Global’s jackpot portfolio—which includes Mega Moolah™, WowPot™, King Millions™, Maple Moolah™, and Lotsaloot™—now offers a combined prize pool exceeding €28 million.
Ofir Gal-Mor, Senior Vice President of Customer Experience & Innovation at Games Global, said:
This €10,475,169.87 payout demonstrates the scale and reach of the King Millions™ network across our operator partners. We are proud to support CasinoFriday in delivering premium progressive content, and this result shows the strong performance of Fire & Roses Joker King Millions™ within regulated markets.
As Games Global broadens the reach of its progressive jackpot ecosystem, it remains dedicated to providing engaging and rewarding experiences for both partners and players, combining innovation with world-class entertainment.
The CPO at Funnz added:
We are thrilled to congratulate our player on achieving this impressive €10.4 million King Millions™ jackpot win. At CasinoFriday, we focus on delivering high-quality entertainment to our community, and this milestone reflects the strength of our partnership with Games Global and the success of its progressive network.
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Play’n GO Launches Manta Mayhem
(AsiaGameHub) - Play’n GO has unveiled Manta Mayhem, a character-driven underwater slot featuring a protective guardian. The game follows a chaotic group of thieves as they attempt to outwit an irritable Manta Ray.
Press release.- A shimmering treasure bay, a possessive Manta Ray, and a group of highly unqualified marine animals clash in Manta Mayhem, Play’n GO’s newest oceanic story focusing on trouble, competition, and attractive distractions.
Deep in a remote part of the sea lies a stash of magical shells, left alone for a specific reason. The bay is protected by a stingy, irritable Manta Ray who treats the location like his own private museum, meticulously arranging every peculiar item he has gathered over time. It is a domain with strict rules, and one clear warning to intruders: do not touch the shells.
Naturally, this is what draws trouble. In a nearby trench, a mismatched crew of strange sea creatures devises a scheme that sounds smart until you hear the specifics. They desire the shells, they desire the fame, and they are convinced they can outwit a territorial guardian using only guts and something suitably glittery. Their agenda is charmingly disorganized: distract the Manta Ray, seize the shells, and "look menacing" (a work in progress, but they are getting close!)
Manta Mayhem embraces lighthearted underwater storytelling, trading heroic bravado for frantic improvisation as this aspiring heist group navigates reefs, avoids watchful eyes, and attempts to prevent the operation from becoming a watery disaster. It is a vibrant, character-driven caper where curiosity creates issues, greed breeds resentment, and the ocean keeps track.
Magnus Wallentin, games ambassador at Play’n GO, stated: "We enjoyed creating a cast that is more bold than skilled, then placing them in a treasure bay guarded by a Manta Ray who never forgets a missing trinket. Manta Mayhem is full of character – it is colorful, humorous, and fueled by that classic 'bad plan turning into a mess' energy."
Regardless of whether players side with the guardian or the potential thieves, Manta Mayhem offers an underwater narrative where the ultimate reward is the journey's chaos.
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Booming Games launches Diamond Forge: Link & Loot
(AsiaGameHub) - Boasting a 5×3 grid with 10 fixed paylines, the game offers a maximum win potential of 10,000x.
Press release.- Booming Games has today (May 14) launched Diamond Forge: Link & Loot, a modern twist on a classic slot game. The title features a 5×3 grid and 10 fixed paylines, delivering a maximum win potential of up to 10,000x. Set against a traditional diamond-themed backdrop, the game includes two high-energy bonus features designed to deliver an engaging and exciting experience.
Each collected Diamond contributes to charging the Diamond Boost feature, which can be activated either during the base game or while playing free spins. This feature can activate unexpectedly at any time, adding up to eight additional Diamonds to the reels—potentially triggering the powerful Link & Loot mechanic immediately. When players gather six or more Diamonds, they are awarded five Link & Loot spins. During these spins, adjacent Diamond symbols merge together to form larger clusters.
Players have the opportunity to create Colossal symbols measuring 2×2 or bigger, which award a special Colossal spin. These spins increase the chances of landing higher-value prizes, including Mini, Minor, Major, or Grand jackpots. The ultimate achievement comes with the formation of a full 5×3 Colossal Diamond, unlocking the most substantial rewards possible.
In addition, landing three or more Scatter symbols triggers eight Free Spins, during which there is an enhanced probability of activating the Link & Loot feature again. Players can strategically deploy large Diamonds throughout the session, aiming for that coveted 10,000x maximum payout.
Craig Asling, director of games at Booming Games, commented: “Diamonds truly are a player’s best friend! Diamond Forge: Link & Loot brings a fresh take to a well-loved theme, and we are confident it will enjoy widespread popularity, just like other titles in the Link & Loot series. Its innovative bonus mechanics, combined with the familiar 5×3 layout, create an immersive gameplay experience with impressive winning potential. Start playing Diamond Forge: Link & Loot today!”
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DATA.BET reports strong esports betting growth in Q1 2026
(AsiaGameHub) - Strong results as esports drives sustained 91,4 per cent GGR growth across partners.
Press release.- DATA.BET has announced a significant acceleration in esports betting. Building on the trends shared in the Sportsbook Report, which highlighted growing player interest in niche tournaments, Q1 2026 confirms the vertical’s continued upward trajectory.
The latest results point to:
Deepening market demand
Disciplined trading operations
Growing player engagement across partner platforms
Substantial revenue growth and commercial impact
Esports delivered standout results across every major benchmark. Compared to Q1 2025, GGR nearly doubled, and turnover grew sharply by 70,6 per cent, supported by a meaningful improvement in margin efficiency.
Player activity strengthened across the board, with placed bets climbing 33,2 per cent and combo bets posting an even more pronounced jump of 72,1 per cent — a clear signal that users are shifting towards more sophisticated betting behaviour. The active player base expanded substantially, and the average single bet size also grew, pointing to higher confidence and deeper involvement from users. Combo bet growth was reinforced by recent UX improvements to our Single Page Application (iFrame), which now makes building multiples easier and improves the display and presentation of available events, while higher-value bets from premium-segment partner platforms contributed meaningfully to the rise in average bet size.
Across major esports titles, performance dynamics show how player preferences and event calendars shaped the quarter. The top four disciplines – CS2, Dota 2, League of Legends, and Valorant – all posted strong double-digit growth across profit, turnover, bet counts, and active users.
Niche disciplines collectively delivered a striking 245 per cent increase in profit compared with Q1 2025, demonstrating the depth of the company’s esports portfolio. This is a trend we first spotted while preparing the Sportsbook Report and one that continues to surprise the wider market, which still tends to underestimate the commercial potential of disciplines outside the established top tier. Rainbow Six stood out as a particular success story, driven by the addition of new markets, including combined Total Over + Win and Win First Half + Win Map, alongside a sharp expansion in match coverage. The discipline has found its audience in Latin America, where DATA.BET has solidified its position as a premium sportsbook solution supplier.
Rocket League continues to confirm its status as one of the most promising esports disciplines for betting, with even greater potential to unlock should official data coverage expand in the future. Despite Q4 2025 hosting the FIFAe World Cup, typically the year’s headline event, Rocket League still delivered QoQ growth with turnover up 85,3 per cent, bet counts rising 18,7 per cent, and active players climbing 50,1 per cent. This was driven primarily by the largest and almost unique market offering in the industry, alongside a 94 per cent live coverage conversion rate.
Between the regional VCT Kickoff and Masters Santiago, Riot Games experimented with a new format – Valorant EMEA Clash 2026, inviting teams that missed out on Santiago qualification, alongside second-tier squads from regional Challenger leagues. By filling a short gap in the calendar, the tournament posted strong YoY growth across core metrics and emerged as a notable driver of new-player acquisition, with newcomers making up 68.6 per cent of all new players and 55.4 per cent of total bets placed.
According to Bohdan Holovnov, head of esports at DATA.BET, this performance reflects deliberate product and trading enhancements aligned with player behaviour: “High margin efficiency has been a real catalyst this quarter. Partners have increasingly recognised that esports can deliver meaningful commercial returns, encouraging them to scale up promotional campaigns and drive more traffic into the vertical. That feeds directly into more new users, higher turnover, and stronger margins. At the same time, we continue to offer the broadest match and discipline coverage on the market, and the impact is also reflected in the rapid growth of combo bets across our partner platforms.”
The official data events were up 5.2 per cent YoY, with the overall event calendar climbing even higher to 10.8 per cent, reinforcing the breadth of DATA.BET’s coverage. Top-tier events outperformed low-tier events by a wide margin in turnover, profit, and bet count, yet the volume of low-tier events also grew, particularly in CS2, as Valve’s restructured Major qualification system has prompted tournament organisers to fill the calendar with new qualifying events.
Holovnov added, “Q1 of 2026 set a new benchmark for what esports betting can deliver. GGR nearly doubling year over year, combined with a player base growing by more than 56 per cent and increasingly sophisticated betting patterns, suggests the vertical is maturing in exactly the right direction. We’re entering the rest of 2026 with strong momentum, an expanding market portfolio, and partners who are seeing tangible commercial impact quarter after quarter.”
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ENJOY Enhances Live Casino Lineup with Greek Roulette
(AsiaGameHub) - ENJOY Gaming, the dynamic iGaming content developer, has expanded its live casino portfolio with the launch of Greek Roulette, an automated roulette experience that enhances classic table gameplay with engaging multiplier mechanics.
Set in an immersive ancient Greek-themed studio, Greek Roulette blends traditional roulette betting with dynamic multipliers through its Lucky Numbers feature. Each spin randomly selects between one and twelve numbers, assigning multipliers of up to x777 to enhance the standard game format.
The game features an automated wheel and supports all conventional inside and outside bets, integrating popular multiplier mechanics into every round. When a straight-up bet hits a Lucky Number, the usual payout is replaced by the assigned multiplier, making each spin more exciting and interactive.
Greek Roulette joins ENJOY’s expanding collection of innovative automated titles, reinforcing the studio’s ongoing dedication to evolving classic games with unique mechanics, distinctive thematic studio design, and modern presentation.
Elena Shestak, Art Director at ENJOY Gaming, stated:
Greek Roulette shows how traditional table products can be revitalised through thoughtful design, contributing to our broader initiative to continuously evolve both live and automated offerings. By incorporating Lucky Numbers and dynamic multipliers within a familiar structure, we aim to modernise well-established formats in ways that feel intuitive, recognisable, and distinctly ENJOY.
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1spin4win launches Lucky 1spin4win Hold and Win in celebration of its 5th anniversary
(AsiaGameHub) - 1spin4win has released Lucky 1spin4win Hold and Win to commemorate its fifth anniversary, following a 2025 financial year that saw a 56.62 per cent increase in Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR).
Press release.- 1spin4win marks five years of steady growth with the launch of Lucky 1spin4win Hold and Win, a special title inspired by the studio’s most successful games.
On May 14, 2026, 1spin4win achieved a major milestone — five years since entering the iGaming market. The company’s anniversary theme, “The Gold Standard of Classic Slots,” reflects its transformation into a respected name within the classic slot segment, built on years of industry experience and a commitment to authentic gambling entertainment.
Today, the provider offers a portfolio of over 200 games that blend timeless appeal with advanced mathematics and strong market performance. In 2025, 1spin4win recorded a 52.06 per cent rise in total bets placed and a 56.62 per cent growth in GGR compared to 2024. This progress has enabled the provider to earn the trust of more than 1,000 operators worldwide, including prominent brands such as SOFTSWISS, EveryMatrix, Alea, SoftGaming, Digitain, and BetConstruct.
In celebration of this milestone, 1spin4win introduces Lucky 1spin4win Hold and Win, a special slot featuring the studio’s flagship titles and beloved characters. Set on a vibrant 3×3 grid, the game includes traditional symbols like fruits, bells, and sevens, along with Wild symbols designed as red bezel-set diamonds. When activated, these Wilds illuminate the “5 Years” sign, reinforcing the game’s anniversary theme.
The slot delivers an engaging experience enhanced by rewarding features. Landing nine matching symbols doubles the player’s win, while three or more Coins trigger the popular Hold and Win Bonus round. Starting with three respins, players have the opportunity to win two festive Jackpots — the x100 Minipot Coin and the x1000 Megapot.
To honor the 5th anniversary, 1spin4win is also launching exclusive promotional campaigns in partnership with MOSTBET, Olymp, and Selector. These promotions will offer players additional ways to join the celebration, with exclusive promo codes available through the partners and to registered users of the provider’s Players Room platform.
Olga Hlukhovskaya, business development director at 1spin4win, commented, “Reaching five years in the industry marks a significant achievement for 1spin4win. Since 2021, we have evolved into a trusted iGaming brand relied upon by top global companies. Moving forward, we aim to expand further into African and Latin American markets, strengthen relationships with regional operators, and reinforce our presence across Europe. This milestone is not only about celebrating past accomplishments but also about shaping the next phase of 1spin4win’s journey.”
Olga Bogdanova, art director at 1spin4win, added, “Lucky 1spin4win Hold and Win celebrates the studio’s fifth anniversary in the casino industry. The game’s design brings together iconic characters and signature symbols from our previous releases, which are well-known to both our players and partners. The result is a dynamic product combining engaging Hold and Win mechanics with the distinctive 1spin4win classic style. We invite everyone to join the celebration, test their luck in the slot, compete for festive jackpots, and revisit their favorite 1spin4win games!”
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ELA Games’ King and Flame Nominated for “Best New Game Release 2026” at SiGMA Europe Awards
(AsiaGameHub) - ELA Games’ King and Flame has been named a finalist for Best New Game Release at the 2026 SiGMA Europe Awards. This recognition highlights the studio’s commitment to blending immersive storytelling with finely tuned math models, unveiled just before the industry event at the Casino Maltese in Valletta, Malta, on May 27.
A Fresh Twist on a Timeless Tale
King and Flame stands out for its bold visual style and innovative approach within the Hold and Win genre. At its core is a compelling narrative that reimagines traditional fantasy themes, offering players a dramatic departure from standard casino fare. Instead of a heroic prince, players encounter a ruler consumed by ambition who unwittingly awakens a fearsome Dragon Queen.
What sets the gameplay apart is its dynamic nature. Standard spins reward players with coins matching their face value, while Mystery Chests introduce unpredictability—bursting open to deliver instant wins or unlock the Grand Jackpot at any moment. The game board shifts dramatically when the “Tamed by the Crown” feature activates, summoning the Dragon Queen as an expanding Full Reel Wild that delivers substantial rewards.
During the Free Spins round, the intensity escalates further with column-expanding coins and a Super Bonus Wheel that doubles all payouts, delivering high-volatility excitement within a richly crafted medieval setting.
Marharyta Yerina, Managing Director of ELA Games, shared her thoughts on the nomination:
We are thrilled to see King and Flame recognized at the esteemed SiGMA Europe awards. I know the entire ELA team poured immense effort into crafting a detailed backstory and vivid graphic world for this slot. It represents our most narrative-driven release to date, and the attention to detail in the design truly brings that story to life. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness that dedication acknowledged on such a prestigious platform.
Cast Your Vote
Voting for the Best New Game Release category is now open to the public. If you’ve experienced the intense battles alongside the Dragon Queen, we would be honored by your support. Please vote for ELA Games and King and Flame here.
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Pronet Gaming: How Betting Risk Is Evolving
(AsiaGameHub) - In the following article, Dean Mascari, Head of Risk at Pronet Gaming, examines how real-time data, behavioural segmentation, and dynamic pricing are reshaping risk management approaches for online betting operators, especially in rapidly expanding Asian markets.
Opinion.– Risk management in online betting has evolved beyond static controls and fixed limits. Today, risk is fluid, instantaneous, and deeply embedded across all aspects of an operator’s operations. In this piece, Dean Mascari, Head of Risk at Pronet Gaming, explores how advancing markets and technology are redefining risk frameworks—particularly for online platforms operating in Asia, where growth is swift and competition fierce.
From static to dynamic risk
Traditionally, sportsbooks set odds well in advance and made limited adjustments based on factors like injuries or team performance. Settlements occurred only after events concluded. The rise of live betting, micro-markets, and real-time trading has fundamentally altered this model. Odds now fluctuate constantly, and risk evolves continuously alongside market movements.
Real-time data serves as the foundation of this transformation. Operators no longer rely on delayed daily reports to assess exposure; instead, they process continuous streams of information tracking events, market conditions, and customer behaviour as they unfold.
Protecting operators and shaping markets
Real-time risk management safeguards operators against sudden, significant exposures—especially during in-play betting scenarios. Wagering volumes can shift dramatically following key moments such as goals, red cards, or player injuries. Without immediate analytical insights, operators face heightened volatility risks.
It also enables operators to fine-tune pricing and betting limits according to shifting market demand. This capability proves crucial in Asia, where consumer preferences differ significantly by region and sport. Operators can tailor their offerings to local tastes while maintaining oversight over global risk exposure.
Behavioural segmentation
Advanced risk systems allow operators to categorise players based on behavioural patterns, historical activity, and current market engagement. Distinguishing between casual bettors, knowledgeable punters, or automated bots helps operators determine which markets to modify or restrict, thereby preserving market integrity and profitability.
This adaptability proves essential in Asian markets, where regulatory environments vary widely across countries such as the Philippines, Japan, and Singapore. Operators can configure their systems to comply with local regulations without undermining overall operational stability.
From defensive to proactive
Risk management is transitioning from a reactive stance to an active role in market development. Operators can influence capital flows through dynamic margins and limit adjustments—similar to prediction markets where prices reflect collective participant actions. Mastering this real-time interplay is now a critical competency.
Hybrid products such as betting exchanges introduce added complexity. Here, prices emerge from user interactions rather than being set directly by operators. Balancing liquidity provision with exposure control ensures markets remain viable while mitigating undue risk. In Asia, where exchanges are gaining traction alongside traditional sportsbooks, operators leveraging real-time intelligence to adjust odds gain a decisive edge.
Granular reporting and strategic advantage
Real-time markets necessitate detailed analytics. Dashboards now display exposure and performance metrics updated every minute, empowering managers to anticipate potential stress points. Operators can drill down into specific segments—whether particular markets or individual player groups—to detect anomalies that may signal fraud or collusion.
Demonstrating robust risk practices sets apart operators in Asia. It reassures regulators focused on player protection and financial risk oversight, while also strengthening confidence among partners and investors amid increasing transaction volumes.
Embracing risk as strategy
The evolving nature of betting risk mirrors broader technological and behavioural shifts. Real-time markets require equally responsive strategies. Operators who view risk not merely as a compliance requirement but as a strategic tool will be best positioned to succeed.
At Pronet Gaming, we invest in solutions and processes that empower operators not just to manage change, but to thrive within it. By embedding risk capabilities throughout our platform and delivering real-time visibility and control, we help define the future of online betting experiences.
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PopOK Gaming partners with TOPsport
(AsiaGameHub) - The company has partnered with the Lithuanian operator, giving local players access to its catalogue of slots, live casino titles, and instant games.
Press release.- PopOK Gaming has announced its official partnership with TOPsport, the pioneering brand that launched the betting and gaming industry in Lithuania.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the provider’s expansion across the Baltic region. Through this alliance, TOPsport customers will now gain access to PopOK Gaming’s extensive and captivating portfolio, which includes popular slots, live casino experiences, and innovative instant games. Recognized for their visually striking graphics, immersive animations, and robust gamification features, PopOK’s offerings are crafted to deliver an engaging and dynamic player experience.
Luiza Melikyan, head of business development at PopOK Gaming, commented: “We are thrilled to partner with TOPsport, a company synonymous with excellence in the Lithuanian market. Our goal has always been to deliver high-quality, entertaining content that truly connects with players. Teaming up with such a respected market leader like TOPsport enables us to reach a wide audience and strengthens our dedication to expanding within regulated European markets.”
The integration of PopOK Gaming’s content into the TOPsport platform supports the latter’s strategy to offer one of the most diverse and premium entertainment ecosystems in the area.
Dainius Gulbinas, CEO of TOPsport, stated: “This partnership represents a key development for both organizations. PopOK’s compelling content and energetic entertainment style bring valuable enhancements to the TOPsport platform, helping us provide even greater variety, quality, and excitement to players in Lithuania.”
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Philippines restricts access to gambling websites on state-funded Wi-Fi
(AsiaGameHub) - The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has restricted access to gambling and explicit websites on all internet connections offered through the nation’s public Wi-Fi initiative.
The Philippines is striving to boost online safety for students and residents in remote areas while simultaneously expanding internet access via the government’s Free Wifi for All projects. This announcement was made during the launch of new connectivity initiatives in Zamboanga del Sur. As part of this new social service program, government officials confirmed that publicly subsidized internet connections in schools and educational institutions will utilize filtering systems.
June Vincent Manuel-Gaudan, Assistant Secretary of the Department of Information and Communications Technology, explained that filtering technology is used to prevent users from accessing gambling sites and pornographic materials through public government Wi-Fi networks.
While officials acknowledged that some individuals may attempt to bypass these restrictions using VPNs, Manuel-Gaudan stated that the DICT will continue to enhance its oversight of filtered Wi-Fi and the use of VPNs to get around those limits. The DICT also blocks thousands of cyber attack attempts daily through its Cybersecurity Bureau and assists other agencies with online security and data protection procedures.
In addition to the filtering systems mentioned above, the Philippine government recently installed 324 Wi-Fi hotspots at 108 schools across Zamboanga del Sur. Many of these schools are located in rural areas where limited internet access makes it extremely difficult to obtain information and communicate with family members.
These new restrictions are part of a broader plan being developed by the Philippines to strengthen supervision of online gambling, cybercrime, and internet safety, in conjunction with ongoing efforts to expand nationwide internet access through public infrastructure projects.
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BlackRock boosts stake in Flutter Entertainment to 5.12%
(AsiaGameHub) - BlackRock has raised its ownership in Flutter Entertainment to 5.12%, bolstering the company’s expanding group of U.S.-based investors as Flutter intensifies its focus on the American market.
Recent confirmation from Flutter that it may decide whether to retain its listing on the London Stock Exchange for its common stock has raised concerns among UK investors. With the United States now serving as Flutter’s main market, the company reported $1.76 billion in revenue from its U.S. operations during Q1 2026, accounting for 41% of total revenues across all subsidiaries. Revenue from FanDuel continues to rise and is a key driver of this growth, with a 19% increase in iGaming revenue compared to the previous year.
By moving its primary listing from London to New York in 2024, Flutter has demonstrated a strong commitment to the fast-growing online sports betting industry in the United States. At present, FanDuel holds approximately 44% share of the U.S. sports betting market, making it essential to Flutter’s long-term strategy.
FanDuel’s internal structure has also undergone changes, including the appointment of Dan Taylor as President of Flutter Entertainment, responsible for overseeing all FanDuel-related activities; Christian Genetski will lead nearly all other aspects of the company’s U.S. operations following Amy Howe’s departure.
BlackRock’s increased investment further strengthens the presence of U.S.-based institutional investors among Flutter’s large base of public shareholders. The ongoing debate about Flutter’s growing ties to U.S. capital markets versus the London Stock Exchange is expected to intensify.
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Chile accelerates passage of online gambling regulation bill
(AsiaGameHub) - The Chilean government has accelerated the regulation of online gambling by granting the online gambling bill "supreme urgency" status, requiring Senate approval within 15 days.
Introduced to the Chilean Congress in March 2022, the online gambling bill establishes a licensing framework for operators, mandating that they obtain a government-issued license and establish a local company in Chile. The legislation also expands legal requirements for online gambling operations, enhances anti-money laundering measures, and introduces stricter regulations on responsible gambling practices.
Under the proposed law, online gambling operators must pay a 20% value-added tax (VAT) on gross gaming revenue to the Chilean government, plus an additional 1% of gross gaming revenue dedicated to responsible gambling initiatives. Additionally, gamblers will be required to pay a 15% tax on their winnings from successful bets to the government.
The bill grants the Chilean government authority to block access to unlicensed online gambling websites and suspend financial transactions with such platforms. Operators found violating the law may face fines, imprisonment, or both.
Furthermore, the legislation introduces new restrictions prohibiting gambling for minors, individuals who have self-excluded from gambling, and those with unpaid alimony obligations. A national exclusion registry will be established to include all participants enrolled in self-exclusion programs.
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ANJ algorithm shows 60% of online GGR originates from excessive gamblers
(AsiaGameHub) - The French National Gaming Authority (ANJ) has launched a new algorithm designed to detect significantly more potentially problematic gamblers in online and live betting than those currently reported by operators.
This tool is a central component of the regulator’s strategic plan for 2024–2026, which focuses on reducing excessive gambling within France’s regulated market.
According to the French Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction, around 1.17 million individuals in France displayed signs of problematic gambling behavior in 2024, including 360,000 classified as excessive gamblers.
The ANJ developed the algorithm using ongoing account-level data provided by licensed operators to build its model. The system relies on 23 indicators derived from scientific research to categorize users into four groups: Recreational, Moderate-risk, Excessive, and Manifestly Excessive.
On Wednesday, initial findings from the algorithm were published. During the second half of 2025, it identified roughly 600,000 people within the online and in-play betting population who have a high likelihood of engaging in excessive gambling.
This figure represents approximately 8.7% of the monitored online and in-play wagering population under the ANJ’s oversight. Among this group, about 300,000 individuals were classified as manifestly excessive gamblers. The ANJ instructed operators to take steps to identify and intervene with these users.
This cohort was estimated to have generated around €1.2 billion in gross gaming revenue—over 60% of France’s total online gambling GGR. The ANJ noted that this share has continued to grow since 2023.
Additionally, the ANJ intends to make the algorithm available to operators on a voluntary basis to support industry efforts in addressing problem gambling.
The authority emphasized that the algorithm does not measure gambling addiction precisely but serves as a regulatory instrument to track trends and help operators improve their intervention strategies.
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Belatra delivers another hit with explosive new slot, Hunt the Bucks
(AsiaGameHub) - Belatra, a leading developer of innovative online slots, has loaded up its latest release, Hunt the Bucks, delivering a game packed with big-game thrills.
Fans of Belatra’s bold outdoor hunter will love the new adventure that exchanges a fishing rod for a hunting rifle for a trip into the wilderness. The Hunter-Wild symbol is the focus for the game and he does far more than just substitute for standard symbols like the Jeep, Gun and Knife.
When it appears on the reels next to Animal or Coin symbols, it activates a collection mechanic that gathers all visible values for an instant combined payout. In Free Games, his role becomes even more important, as each Hunter-Wild collected fills the Booster panel to unlock extra spins and increasing multipliers. The forest is filled with high-value Animal Credit-Symbols, with multipliers from 2x right up to a staggering 1000x. The Hunter-Wild lands next to these creatures, aggregating all values on screen for one big payout of power. But he is never alone in the field. Randomly the Hunter blows his horn and his faithful Lucky Dog bounds up, fetching more Animal Credit-Symbols and putting them on the board to make sure there are even more trophies to collect. There’s more strategic elements to the game with the Dropping Coins mechanic.
Special Coin symbols will drop onto the reels starting with a value of 10x which will move down one position every spin increasing in value as they move, becoming 20x, 50x or even 100x as they near the bottom row. Each spin is a race against the clock, for if the Hunter appears before a coin leaves the grid, he receives the full value it has accumulated. Three Scatters fire up the Free Games feature, and every Hunter-Wild you land fills a space in the Booster panel, which unlocks extra spins and multipliers. Five Scatters are required to trigger the legendary Hot Mode and initiate the bonus round with a couple of powerful multipliers, 2x and 3x, already in the queue. As each spin increases the intensity, this high-stakes chase takes the potential to a max win of 5000x.
For those players wishing to move things along, the Buy Bonus menu has four different purchase options, giving direct access to standard Free Games, the high stakes Hot Mode or specific mini-bonuses for Coins and the Lucky Dog. The Bet +25% feature boosts the possibility of triggering the main bonus features in regular gameplay.
Misha Voinich, Head of Business Development at Belatra said:
Hunt the Bucks hits the mark and opens a new chapter for one of our most beloved characters. The upshot is a game that’s wildly entertaining and set to become a player favourite thanks to smart mechanics with serious win potential.
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bet-at-home reports decline in Q1 revenue
(AsiaGameHub) - Austria’s rise in gambling tax weighed on the operator’s first quarterly results since Banijay sold its controlling stake.
Germany.- The Germany and Austria-facing gambling operator bet-at-home has reported results from a challenging first quarter, with revenues declining under the impact of Austria’s higher tax rate. Gross betting and gaming revenue (GGR) decreased by 16.1 per cent year-on-year to €11.34m. This was mainly driven by weaker sportsbook performance, where GGR fell from €12.01m a year ago to €9.63m.
The Q1 update marks the first set of results since Banijay Group exited the business. The French group completed the sale of its 53.9 per cent controlling stake on January 2 as it shifted focus toward its newly established Banijay Gaming division, created through the merger of Betclic and Tipico Sportwetten.
Management attributed much of bet-at-home’s downturn to Austria’s betting tax increase, which rose from 2 to 5 per cent on stakes in April 2025. “The immediate pass-through of the increased costs to customers from June 2025 led to a decline in revenues as well as overall customer activity,” CEO Stefan Sulzbacher stated.
The company already faced pressure from Germany’s 5.3 per cent stake tax along with strict regulations introduced by the 2021 Interstate Treaty on Gambling, including its €1,000 monthly deposit limit and €1 per spin slot limits.
Q1 sports betting volume declined by €67.86m, falling from €89.78m in Q1 2025, while total betting and gaming volume dropped from €103.2m to €82.3m. On a positive note, online gaming saw a 13.1 per cent increase in GGR, reaching €1.71m.
EBITDA before special items ended at a loss of €149,000, while consolidated profit fell from €887,000 to a €461,000 loss. Despite this, the operator maintained its 2026 guidance, forecasting GGR between €46m–€54m, compared to €48m in full-year 2025, and EBITDA before special items of up to €4m. Sulzbacher highlighted the World Cup’s potential to boost registrations and engagement. “We expect this major event to serve as an additional positive driver for further business development,” he said.
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UK Government Outlines Objectives and Composition of Illegal Gambling Taskforce
(AsiaGameHub) - The new UK Illegal Gambling Taskforce will feature specialized subgroups targeting three primary areas.
UK – The Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) has released further details about the newly established Illegal Gambling Taskforce. It has issued updated terms of reference outlining the group’s objectives, membership structure, and meeting protocols.
The document confirms that the taskforce will work to develop solutions and offer recommendations aimed at mitigating the negative effects associated with illegal gambling challenges. Three subgroups have been formed to address three core priorities: curbing or limiting financial transactions between consumers and illegal gambling operators, combating the online promotion of illegal gambling, and enhancing inter-agency cooperation and enforcement efforts related to both remote and land-based illegal gambling operations.
These subgroups will report progress and present recommendations through a structured program of work. The taskforce is initially set up to operate for 12 months, after which its scope and membership will be reassessed and renewed as needed.
Baroness Twycross. Photo: UK Parliament
Baroness Fiona Twycross, Minister for Museums, Heritage and Gambling, will serve as chair of the taskforce. Membership will include a diverse mix of experts and representatives from the gambling industry, technology platforms, payment processors, the Gambling Commission and other regulatory bodies, government departments, and trade associations. Specific organizations and individuals serving as members will not be publicly disclosed.
The DCMS Director of Sport and Gambling will act as co-chair, and additional stakeholders may be invited by the government to participate in specific agenda items or within the subgroups, potentially including individuals outside the formal taskforce membership.
Industry participants will contribute to and implement non-legislative measures concerning advertising and payment services, both on behalf of their own organizations and by encouraging broader sector-wide action.
Meeting schedule
The full taskforce will convene at least twice annually, while each subgroup will determine its own meeting frequency, with guidance to meet at least quarterly in order to provide timely updates ahead of the biannual taskforce sessions.
The terms emphasize that the taskforce will not oversee or interfere with operational decisions made by the Gambling Commission. However, its functions and responsibilities may evolve based on emerging priorities and challenges identified during its activities. Any modifications will require approval from the taskforce in coordination with the Minister, Deputy Chair, Secretariat, and relevant stakeholders, with corresponding updates made to the terms of reference if necessary.
In separate developments, the Gambling Commission is currently recruiting a head of illegal markets. Additionally, the regulator has secured £26 million in extra government funding over the next three years, enabling it to intensify its focus on illegal land-based gambling across the UK.
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Responsible Gambling Council calls on Canada’s financial sector to address gambling-related harm
(AsiaGameHub) - It argues that the institutions are uniquely positioned to protect their customers’ financial well-being.
Canada.- The Responsible Gambling Council (RGC) is urging Canada’s financial sector to take a proactive role in mitigating gambling-related financial harm. A new whitepaper highlights how banks and credit unions are uniquely positioned to safeguard the financial health of their customers.
The whitepaper titled “Opportunities for Impact: The Role of Financial Institutions in Mitigating Gambling-Related Harm” explains that financial institutions have direct access to gambling transaction data that can reveal early warning signs of financial vulnerability, such as rapidly declining savings and increased reliance on overdrafts or credit.
The report notes that in the UK, banks like Monzo and Starling were among the first to offer voluntary gambling blocks to their customers, while in Australia, the National Australia Bank provides dedicated support pages and links to financial counseling services.
RGC recommends that Canadian financial institutions enhance the accuracy of Merchant Category Codes to better monitor gambling expenditures, implement voluntary transaction blocks and allow customers to set monthly spending limits, and integrate targeted messaging and support resources directly into digital banking platforms. RGC has stated its commitment to collaborating with the financial sector to develop evidence-based tools and resources.
Tracy Parker, Senior Vice President of Accreditation, Advisory & Insights at RGC, remarked: “The rapid expansion of regulated gambling in Canada demands an updated response from our financial systems. By adopting proven tools already used in other countries, Canadian banks can become leaders in protecting customer financial well-being.”
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MPs Engage in UK Gambling Financial Risk Checks Debate
(AsiaGameHub) - MPs on different sides of the political spectrum have defended the industry’s position against the Gambling Commission’s proposed Financial Risk Assessments.
UK.- Opinions continue to be divided over the British Gambling Commission’s proposed Financial Risk Assessments for gambling. The regulator has insisted that no decision has yet been taken on whether the measure will be implemented on a permanent basis following the pilot, and it continues to insist that the checks would be frictionless for most gamblers if introduced, while the industry has complained of disruption and inconsistent results from different credit agencies.
Several MPs on different sides of the political spectrum have spoken out to defend the industry’s position.
Sally Jameson, the Labour MP for Doncaster Central, raised concerns over issues identified during the pilot. Writing on PoliticsHome, she noted the importance of horseracing for the local economy in her constituency, which hosts the annual St Leger festival.
“Someone having a bet on the St Leger should not feel they are being treated as a financial risk for taking part in a legal activity that more than 22.5 million adults enjoy safely every month,” she wrote.
She added: “These checks were presented as frictionless. Customers were not meant to be asked to hand over payslips, bank statements or other personal financial documents as a routine condition of enjoying a legal leisure activity. But the evidence from the pilot has raised serious questions about whether that promise can be met in practice.
“Operators have reported inconsistencies in the data returned by credit reference agencies, meaning more customers may face account restrictions or requests for further information. Before this is implemented across the board, we must iron out the issues so that we have a system that works as it was intended to.”
Jameson expressed concern that racing fans could be particularly affected because of the seasonal nature of the sport. “People might not bet regularly all year round but may choose to place a few more bets during major events like Cheltenham, Aintree, Royal Ascot or the St Leger itself. That kind of pattern should not automatically trigger intrusive checks,” she warned.
Sally Jameson. Photo: UK Parliament
Jameson also sees a wider risk.
“If people are faced with checks that feel intrusive or unreliable, some will turn to the illegal online black market. Those operators offer none of the protections we expect, no safeguards, no support, no tax contribution and no funding for racing,” the MP wrote.
The shadow gambling minister’s view
Meanwhile, Louie French, the shadow gambling minister and Conservative MP for Old Bexley and Sidcup, has suggested that the industry is in a different place compared to then the Gambling Commission’s Financial Risk Assessments were first proposed.
“Since frictionless checks were first proposed, the regulated sector has introduced a wide range of tougher safeguards, from vulnerability checks and stricter online stake limits to improved monitoring, earlier interventions and better protections for young adults,” he wrote, also on PoliticsHome. “These measures are already making a huge difference. That is why serious questions must now be asked about whether an additional layer of financial checks is still necessary or proportionate.”
The shadow gambling minister also questioned the lack of a detailed evaluation of the Financial Risk Assessment pilot. “The Gambling Commission consulted on these checks in 2024 and began a pilot afterwards. Yet we still have not seen a full public explanation of what that pilot has shown.
“Ministers have quoted headline figures in Parliament, including the claim that 97 per cent of checks would be frictionless. But that framing risks understating the real impact. In practice, the proportion of active customers affected is likely to be significantly higher and across millions of accounts, that means a substantial number of customers being interrupted or asked to provide personal financial information. That’s why the current direction of travel on FRAs is so concerning.”
Louie French. Photo: UK Parliament
He added: “We were told these checks would be “frictionless”, but in reality a customer placing a bet may suddenly be flagged by an automated system, asked for more information, or even told to hand over private financial documents such as bank statements, payslips or proof of income before they can carry on. That is not a light-touch safeguard it is intrusive, confusing and completely out of proportion to having a legal flutter.
“This is not just about inconvenience. It is about trust. If people feel they are being excessively monitored for engaging in a legal activity, confidence in the system begins to erode. There is also a more serious unintended consequence that cannot be ignored. If regulated betting becomes too complicated or intrusive, some customers will inevitably look elsewhere. The illegal gambling market is already growing, and it thrives on exactly this kind of frustration. Unlike licensed operators, black market sites offer no consumer protections, no safeguards, and no accountability.”
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Flutter commits £1.5m to new Centre of Excellence for safer gambling
(AsiaGameHub) - The new centre is designed to act as a hub for collaboration, research, and innovation focused on responsible gambling and customer protection.
UK.- Flutter Entertainment has pledged an additional £1.5 million to support safer gambling initiatives, launching a new Centre of Excellence at its offices in Leeds, West Yorkshire. The facility aims to serve as a central platform for advancing responsible gambling practices and enhancing customer protection, with the goal of increasing player usage of safer play tools from 60% to 75% by 2030.
Around 450 members of Flutter’s customer safety team will be based at the new centre, where they will test and develop new technologies to improve player protection. Flutter’s dedication to corporate social responsibility and safer gambling has recently been acknowledged through the long-standing Cash4Clubs programme, which was awarded the Best Grassroots Initiative prize at the 2026 Women’s Football Awards.
In 2018, the company established its Alpha Hub, collaborating with startups on projects related to responsible gaming technologies. More recently, Flutter partnered with EPIC Global Solutions to deliver gambling harm prevention education across the League of Ireland. This three-year programme, funded by Flutter, will provide educational sessions to all 32 senior men’s and women’s teams, academy clubs, Women’s Development League teams, and match officials.
League of Ireland Director Mark Scanlon highlighted positive early outcomes, noting a significant rise in integrity awareness among women’s teams—from 53% to 94%. Flutter continues to foster innovation through initiatives such as the Tech4Good Awards 2025. At the same time, the company is reassessing its position on the London Stock Exchange, less than two years after moving its primary listing to the New York Stock Exchange.
The Dublin-based gambling group, which operates brands including FanDuel, PokerStars, Paddy Power, and Sky Bet, has been listed on the London Stock Exchange since Betfair’s £1.4 billion initial public offering in 2010. In its Q1 2026 update, Flutter revealed it is evaluating the future of its LSE-listed shares, as the US market now represents a growing share of its business.
The company stated: “We are undertaking a review of our London Stock Exchange listed ordinary shares… The conclusion of this review may result in the delisting of Flutter’s ordinary shares from the LSE.”
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US commercial gaming revenue hits record $78.6bn in 2025
(AsiaGameHub) - Sports betting and igaming continued to fuel growth across the entire sector, while regulators stepped up enforcement efforts against illegal gambling operations.
US.- The American Gaming Association has confirmed that the US commercial gaming industry generated record revenue of US$ 78.62bn for 2025. As previously reported back in February, revenue rose 9.1 per cent year over year, driven by the ongoing expansion of land-based casinos, sports betting and igaming, with 34 of the 38 jurisdictions that have regulated gambling plus Washington D.C. setting new all-time annual revenue records.
Direct gaming tax contributions generated by commercial operators increased by 12.3 per cent year over year to US$ 17.86bn. This figure covers state and local taxes levied directly on gaming activities, and excludes other corporate and payroll taxes paid by operators.
Traditional casino gaming remained the industry’s largest revenue segment. The 493 commercial casino properties operating across 27 US states generated US$ 51.06bn from slot machines and table games in 2025, marking a 2.3 per cent rise compared to the previous year.
Brick-and-mortar casinos hold leading market position
The Las Vegas Strip remained the country’s largest commercial casino market despite recording no growth in gaming revenue. New casino openings in Illinois contributed to improved performance in the Chicagoland and St. Louis markets, while Baltimore-Washington D.C., Philadelphia, Detroit and Boston saw drops in land-based casino revenue.
Outside Nevada and Mississippi, which do not release property-level performance data, Resorts World New York City remained the highest-grossing commercial casino property in the US in 2025.
Meanwhile, commercial sports betting revenue jumped by 22.6 per cent year-on-year to US$ 16.89bn. That figure excludes tribal sportsbook operations and mobile sports betting activity in Florida. As for igaming, revenue crossed the US$ 10bn mark for the first time ever.
Pennsylvania remained the country’s largest igaming market, with revenue climbing nearly 28 per cent to US$ 3.46bn. For the first time, annual igaming revenue outpaced land-based commercial casino revenue in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Michigan, New Jersey and Pennsylvania continued to make up almost 90 per cent of nationwide igaming revenue, though Delaware, Rhode Island and West Virginia recorded the strongest growth rates for the segment.
Maine was the only state to approve igaming legislation during 2025, with the measure set to enter into force in early 2026.
State authorities crack down on illegal gambling
Regulators and lawmakers also intensified efforts targeting illegal gambling activity over the course of the year. Authorities in 16 states took action against prediction market platforms offering sports event contracts via cease-and-desist orders, lawsuits and regulatory guidance.
California, Connecticut, Montana, New Jersey and New York passed legislation explicitly prohibiting sweepstakes gaming platforms that mimic online casino or sportsbook products. At the same time, regulators in Florida, Michigan, Mississippi and Tennessee continued enforcement efforts against offshore gaming operators and unlicensed betting activity.
In August, the American Gaming Association estimated that illegal gambling operations, including offshore sportsbooks and unregulated online casinos, generate approximately US$53.9bn in annual revenue, leading to more than US$15bn in lost state tax revenue.
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