Category: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) - Saman kelas tindakan terhadap Norsk Tipping telah menarik lebih daripada 17,000 plaintif, menjadikannya saman kelas tindakan terbesar dalam sejarah Norway. Saman itu dimulakan oleh firma guaman SANDS selepas kesilapan dalam sistem loteri dan cabutan Lotto dan Eurojackpot disahkan telah menjejaskan peluang kemenangan pemain. Tarikh akhir untuk menyertai saman ini ialah 16 Februari 2026. Menurut pihak berkuasa perjudian Norway, kesilapan ini menjejaskan pelbagai cabutan yang dijalankan selama beberapa tahun. Rakan kongsi SANDS, Lars Tormodsgard, percaya kesilapan itu mengakibatkan pemain menerima peluang yang lebih rendah daripada yang diiklankan, yang merupakan kecacatan asas dalam operasi permainan tersebut. Penuntut menuntut bayaran balik untuk semua aktiviti pertaruhan mereka yang berlaku sebelum masalah itu dikenal pasti. Pertaruhan semasa tempoh yang menjejaskan penuntut dari 2015/2016 hingga 2025 berbeza-beza daripada jumlah yang sangat kecil kepada jumlah yang besar. Jumlah nilai kes belum ditetapkan; bagaimanapun, dengan begitu ramai penuntut, ia boleh menjadi sangat besar. Norsk Tipping telah mengakui sifat teknikal kesilapan itu tetapi menafikan liabiliti. Walaupun pengendali mengakui kesilapan itu berlaku; ia berpendapat bahawa kesilapan itu hanya menjejaskan cabutan tambahan permainan dan tidak memerlukan bayaran balik semua pertaruhan pada semua cabutan. Pengendali telah menyatakan bahawa ia akan mempertahankan dirinya di mahkamah. Norsk Tipping terlibat dalam satu lagi saman, di samping pelbagai cabaran peraturan lain sejak beberapa tahun kebelakangan ini yang juga mengakibatkan ia dikenakan pelbagai sekatan berjumlah NOK 119 juta (kira-kira $14 juta) untuk pelbagai kegagalan teknikal/operasi; termasuk denda NOK 46 juta kerana kesilapan yang dibuat semasa cabutan. Menurut pihak berkuasa, kesilapan khusus ini mungkin telah wujud selama 10 tahun yang mungkin memberikan pemain sindiket kelebihan yang ketara berbanding pemain individu. Perbicaraan dijadualkan bermula pada 25–26 Ogos 2016; dan bergantung pada keputusannya bukan sahaja akan mempunyai implikasi kewangan yang besar untuk Norsk Tipping, tetapi juga mungkin menetapkan duluan penting berkaitan dengan cara kesilapan berkaitan perjudian dikendalikan dalam pasaran yang dikawal selia. Artikel ini disediakan oleh penyedia kandungan pihak ketiga. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) tidak memberikan sebarang jaminan atau representasi berkaitan kandungannya. Kategori: Berita Terkini, Kemas Kini Umum AsiaGameHub menyediakan perkhidmatan pengedaran iGaming yang disasarkan untuk syarikat dan organisasi, dengan menghubungkan lebih daripada 3,000 media premium di Asia serta lebih 80,000 influencer khusus. Ia berfungsi sebagai jambatan utama untuk pengedaran kandungan iGaming, kasino, dan eSports di seluruh rantau ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Malta terus meneruskan pendekatan berfikiran majunya dalam mengawal perjudian dalam talian dan blok rantai dengan mula meneroka pilihan tentang cara terbaik untuk mengawal pasaran ramalan. Kerajaan Malta menggunakan pengetahuan yang diperoleh daripada menganalisis landskap peraturan di bidang lain sebagai rujukan untuk inisiatif mereka yang akan datang, yang bertujuan untuk mencipta rangka kerja bagi pengawalan pasaran ramalan. Perdagangan keputusan peristiwa yang berlaku di dunia sebenar berlaku melalui pasaran ramalan, termasuk pilihan raya, data ekonomi dan sukan. Trend ini berkembang dengan ketara kerana ia telah digunakan secara meluas dalam beberapa tahun kebelakangan ini; terutamanya di Amerika Syarikat di mana beberapa platform perdagangan (contohnya, Kalshi, Polymarket) telah mengalami pertumbuhan yang luar biasa dengan anggaran jumlah perdagangan sehingga ratusan juta dolar yang dijana dalam industri itu dari tahun 2023 hingga 2025. Tidak terdapat rangka kerja peraturan yang umum di EU mengenai pasaran ramalan; sebenarnya, sesetengah negara membenarkan pasaran ramalan wujud manakala yang lain masih berusaha untuk memutuskan cara menggolongkan pasaran tersebut untuk tujuan peraturan (iaitu, perkhidmatan perjudian, instrumen kewangan, atau gabungan kedua-duanya). Inisiatif semasa Malta untuk mencipta rangka kerja peraturan bagi pasaran ramalan sesuai dengan matlamat yang lebih besar untuk menjadikan Malta sebagai pusat bagi industri digital baru-baru ini, seperti permainan dalam talian dan teknologi blok rantai, sambil pada masa yang sama memberikan kepastian undang-undang kepada pengendali yang ingin beroperasi di Eropah. Artikel ini disediakan oleh penyedia kandungan pihak ketiga. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) tidak memberikan sebarang jaminan atau representasi berkaitan kandungannya. Kategori: Berita Terkini, Kemas Kini Umum AsiaGameHub menyediakan perkhidmatan pengedaran iGaming yang disasarkan untuk syarikat dan organisasi, dengan menghubungkan lebih daripada 3,000 media premium di Asia serta lebih 80,000 influencer khusus. Ia berfungsi sebagai jambatan utama untuk pengedaran kandungan iGaming, kasino, dan eSports di seluruh rantau ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The recently restructured IGT announced layoffs on Monday, impacting approximately 700 employees, which represents about 10% of its global workforce. The gaming company has become the latest to implement job cuts amidst prevailing macroeconomic challenges. Specific details regarding the affected roles and locations were not disclosed. According to an internal memo reported by the Las Vegas Review-Journal, IGT CEO Hector Fernandez informed staff that the layoffs were not performance-related. Instead, he stated they were "part of an initiative to streamline our organizational framework, eliminate redundancies, and enable us to operate with enhanced clarity and speed." "Our current focus must be on how we collectively advance: by mutually supporting each other, concentrating on our key objectives, and persisting with the efforts that will shape our company's future," Fernandez continued. "We united to establish a company capable of leading in a swiftly changing industry, and I maintain my belief in that prospect and in the capabilities of our team." IGT recently finalized its $6.3 billion merger with Everi Holdings, with the resulting combined enterprise now operating as a private entity under Apollo Global Management. The two providers had initially consented to an autonomous merger before Apollo intervened to acquire both. Under the terms of the agreement, IGT’s gaming operations were integrated with Everi’s financial technology division, while IGT’s former lottery segment was divested into an independent public company named Brightstar Lottery. These layoffs were not entirely unexpected, given that the intricate merger was anticipated to bring about more transformations beyond just the lottery spin-off. However, they serve as the most recent evidence that gaming firms are experiencing financial pressure as the initial quarter of 2026 concludes. Widespread Market Instability Since US President Donald Trump commenced his second term last January, the American economy has experienced significant fluctuations, driven by factors such as elevated tariffs, government closures, persistent inflation, and, most recently, the escalating conflict with Iran. In a consumer discretionary sector such as gaming, these repercussions affect almost every facet. Tariffs lead to higher construction expenses for operators and increased production costs for suppliers; government shutdowns and geopolitical events influence consumer travel and expenditure for operators; and persistent inflation maintains high interest rates, thereby hindering mergers and acquisitions and debt refinancing across the industry. Presently, gaming companies exhibit lower enterprise multiples and elevated debt-to-EBITDA ratios compared to the market average, as per data from New York University. For suppliers such as IGT, predicting future performance or achieving strong results becomes progressively challenging when material and trade costs are subject to constant unpredictability. While reducing staff is one response to this uncertainty, it also carries the risk of being a short-term solution. Daron Dorsey, CEO of the Association of Gaming Equipment Manufacturers, informed iGB last October, "The difficulty lies in our inability to plan six, nine, or twelve months ahead. The long-range consequences [of tariffs and economic instability] remain undefined." He continued, "No one can definitively say when conditions will stabilize and become more predictable. Consequently, long-term strategic choices are not being made, as circumstances could shift again in just a few months. Such changes could then nullify actions taken today. This is the reality they are currently navigating." Job Reductions Across Several Companies This Year Beyond IGT, several other prominent companies within the industry have also declared layoffs this year. Underdog's decision to cut 20% of its staff in late February was arguably the most substantial in scale. The emerging fantasy sports company is shifting its focus to prediction markets, which, being national offerings, necessitate fewer personnel compared to state-specific operational models. Underdog CEO Jeremy Levine stated, "It is simply a distinct operational approach, and the adjustments we implemented are integral to that transformation." Similarly, DraftKings also announced job cuts in February, though the exact numbers were not revealed. In a press release, the company indicated it had "opted to restructure certain teams to more effectively align their personnel with the company's paramount priorities and investment areas." Citizens analyst Jordan Bender, in his research note, estimated that 5% of DraftKings’ workforce was affected, potentially saving the company approximately $30 million. Bender communicated to investors, "We believe this current phase of restructuring might have been more extensive or had a greater impact on the business model, had it not been for the company's move into prediction markets, influenced by the CEO's drive to integrate AI across the organization for both internal and external operations." Within the iGaming sector, supplier Bragg Gaming reduced its staff by 12% in January. This action was aimed at "realigning" the company for subsequent expansion, simultaneously generating cost efficiencies of roughly €4.5 million. Bragg CEO Matevz Mazij stated, "Our strategic reorganization is intended to leverage our robust groundwork. It will place us in an exceptionally strong position for organic expansion and simultaneous market consolidation prospects." Casino Sector Stable, Yet Obstacles Persist While the brick-and-mortar casino industry has largely sidestepped widespread job cuts to date, the future remains unclear, particularly in Las Vegas. During the fourth quarter of last year, UNLV’s Southern Nevada Business Confidence Index reached its lowest point since the Great Recession, influenced by subdued hiring confidence and diminished future projections. Although no significant operators have declared extensive layoffs this year, southern Nevada has experienced an overall decline in employment. Data from the Nevada Department of Employment, Training and Rehabilitation indicates that the Las Vegas metropolitan area concluded 2025 with almost 10,000 fewer jobs compared to December 2024. The state's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate stood at 5.2%, marginally surpassing the national average of 4.4%. Several Las Vegas casinos confirmed job reductions between mid-2024 and mid-2025. Among these were the Rio Hotel and Casino, the Venetian and Palazzo, and Resorts World Las Vegas. Furthermore, MGM Resorts discontinued concierge services at six of its nine Strip properties last April. MGM CFO Jonathan Halkyard stated during the company’s Q1 2025 earnings call, "The reality is that we consistently manage our labor expenditures, and what you're observing is a manifestation of that." Jess MarquezJess has reported on the international gaming sector since 2022. Hailing from Reno, Nevada, he wishes to emphasize the pronunciation as Ne-va-da, not Ne-VAH-da. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) has issued a $100,000 fine to BetMGM after finding the operator’s know-your-customer (KYC) protocols to be insufficient. The regulator stated that these shortcomings permitted ongoing fraudulent behavior across its digital wagering sites. On Wednesday, the board explained that these security gaps allowed for the establishment of multiple accounts using stolen or fraudulent personal details and payment options. Inquiries revealed that more than $2 million in betting activity was tied to four distinct fraud rings operating over periods of 25 to 34 months. One specific group created 1,567 illicit accounts, while others were responsible for hundreds of accounts and substantial wagering volumes. The PGCB noted that its persistent enforcement actions are intended to uphold responsible gambling standards within the state's regulated industry. This development follows the PGCB's report of an 11.6% year-on-year growth in gambling revenue for the month of January. Systemic exploitation facilitated by verification flaws Findings from the board highlighted systemic weaknesses in BetMGM’s processes for customer identification and payment verification. These failures allowed for recurring account access without proper identity checks, leading to extended exploitation by fraudsters. The PGCB concluded that these issues stemmed from general operational deficiencies rather than isolated instances of human error. This fine follows previous disciplinary measures regarding BetMGM’s compliance. In early 2025, the board finalized a consent agreement requiring BetMGM to pay $260,905 for allowing individuals on the self-exclusion list to gamble online. The PGCB confirmed that the fraudulent accounts involved in the latest case were closed immediately. The operator chose not to comment on the most recent penalty. Exclusion orders expanded as part of enforcement The PGCB also revised its involuntary exclusion lists, adding 16 individuals who are now prohibited from entering Pennsylvania casinos, using online betting platforms, or visiting video gaming terminal sites. Four of these cases involved adults leaving children unattended to gamble. The board reiterated the goals of its “Don’t Gamble with Kids” initiative, highlighting that such behavior jeopardizes the safety of minors. The regulator is scheduled to hold its next public meeting on 29 April in Harrisburg. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - World boxing champion Manny Pacquiao has signed an agreement with Philippine iGaming platform DigiPlus to launch a new series of games specifically for Filipino players. Recognized for popular iGaming platforms such as BingoPlus, ArenaPlus, and GameZone, DigiPlus dubbed the development a “new round” for Philippine-based digital entertainment, offering “a robust ecosystem crafted to enhance the Filipino player experience”. The collection features nine Pacquiao-themed games, “meticulously crafted to reflect Pacquiao’s accomplishments and unyielding fighting spirit”. Leading titles include Super Ace Pacquiao, Pacquiao Fortune and Fortune Gems Pacquiao. Pacquiao will also serve as “the new face of DigiPlus’ top-tier sportsbook and elite card and table game tournament hub,” the company noted. Leveraging the name value of a sports icon Pacquiao is the only eight-division world champion in boxing history and a Philippine national icon. Known in the ring as “Pacman,” he served in the Philippine Senate from 2016 to 2022. He later ran for president, losing in 2023 to Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. However, the Pacquiao name still holds significant influence. DigiPlus Chairman Eusebio Tanco stated that the new partnership merges “the legendary tale of our boxing hero with a strong technological framework, [to create] an innovative, secure, and genuinely local experience”. This will make DigiPlus and its platforms the first official gaming partners of MannyPay, a Pacquiao-branded payment platform licensed by the Philippine Central Bank. “This partnership with DigiPlus is special because it was developed with our fellow Filipinos in mind,” said Pacquiao. “Whether through the games that share my story or managing transactions with MannyPay, we are demonstrating to the world what Filipinos can achieve.” Marjorie PrestonMarjorie started her career in gaming in 2007 and has concentrated on Asian gaming markets since 2020. Outside work, she writes about travel and film and plays the drums. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The Swedish government has revealed the appointment of Peter Knutsson as the new director general of the Swedish Gambling Authority (Spelinspektionen). Knutsson, who presently serves as the advertising ombudsman, is set to take on the role on 17 August 2026. He will hold the six-year position until 31 August 2032. Knutsson will bring a breadth of experience in public administration, consumer protection, and regulatory roles. Since August 2024, he has been overseeing advertising standards in Sweden as part of his ombudsman responsibilities. Previously, he held the post of Head of Unit at the Ministry of Finance and has worked with the European Commission. Additionally, Knutsson has provided advisory support to the Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority. A qualified lawyer with more than 20 years of managerial experience, Knutsson specializes in consumer legislation and related policy areas. ‘This will be very good for the authority’ The appointment takes place during a period of intensified scrutiny of Sweden’s gambling market, with recent data showing that nearly one in six Swedes engaged in online gambling activities in 2025. Concurrently, the government has been advancing amendments to the Gambling Act aimed at strengthening its capacity to target unlicensed operators. Authorities have also taken more direct action against illegal gambling, with police recently dismantling an unlicensed operation. Madelaine Tunudd, chairwoman of the Gambling Authority, welcomed Knutsson’s appointment. “With the strong experience Peter Knutsson brings from, among other areas, the Ministry of Finance, consumer affairs, and most recently the Advertising Ombudsman, this will be very good for the authority.” Johan Röhr, the current acting director general, confirmed he would manage the transition and assist Knutsson to ensure a smooth start in his new role. “I welcome the government’s decision on a new director general for the Swedish Gambling Authority and will ensure that Peter Knutsson receives a thorough introduction during my handover as acting director general.” Knutsson will take over from the acting leadership that has steered Spelinspektionen through recent periods of regulatory and enforcement activity. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The National Bureau of Investigation-National Capital Region (NBI-NCR) announced on Monday that it is investigating allegations of rural land theft in Bataan Province, with the land reportedly transferred to a company linked to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operations (POGOs). Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had banned the country's POGO industry, which has been associated with crime, in 2024, mandating their exit by 2025. Over a year later, the repercussions of POGO operations continue to be felt. Local farmers have stated that the rural land parcels were transferred illegally, without the authorization of the Department of Agrarian Reform, to a holding company connected to Harry Roque. Roque, an attorney and self-proclaimed human rights advocate, previously served as the spokesperson for former president Rodrigo Duterte. Last year, prosecutors filed charges of qualified human trafficking against Roque in connection with a POGO operation in Pampanga. Shortly thereafter, Roque reportedly left the Philippines and is now believed to be residing in Austria. According to the NBI-NCR, "preliminary information indicates the possible falsification of documents" in relation to the land transfers, raising "serious concerns about the validity and legality" of the process. The bureau has committed to a thorough investigation of the land-grab allegations and will pursue prosecution if warranted. The rise and fall of POGOs POGOs were legalized in 2016 during the Duterte administration and generated substantial government revenue, amounting to PHP5.17 billion (US$86 million) in 2023, with projections of PHP7 billion for 2024. The industry began to face scrutiny following raids on several POGO establishments that uncovered evidence of criminal activities, including online love and crypto scams, as well as forced labor. In his 2024 State of the Nation address, President Marcos stated that "disguising as legitimate entities, the operations have ventured into illicit areas furthest from gaming," listing offenses such as "financial scamming, money laundering, prostitution, human trafficking, kidnapping, brutal torture – even murder." Based on these allegations, he ordered the shutdown of all POGOs, both legitimate and otherwise, by the end of the year. In October of that year, as the industry was ostensibly winding down, police raided Central One Bataan Inc., a business process outsourcing company allegedly operating as a front for a POGO. This company was not registered with the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp., the regulatory body for the domestic gaming industry. Central One has denied the allegations. POGOs also linked to drug trade In related developments, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla stated at a press briefing on Tuesday that Chinese nationals associated with POGOs are responsible for leading most of the active drug syndicates in the country. At a Tuesday press conference, Philippines Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said Chinese nationals connected to POGOs brought most of the active drug syndicates to the country. Remulla described POGOs as "a plague on the Philippines," telling reporters that the country is "paying for the effects of those POGOs" from 2016 to the present. He added that "almost all the syndicates we’ve caught here are led by Chinese nationals using visas from POGOs." On Tuesday, Remulla, alongside representatives from national law enforcement, participated in the burning of PHP4.56 billion worth of illegal drugs in Trece Martires City. This amount represents the drugs confiscated in illegal drug cases over the past six months alone. Marjorie PrestonMarjorie began her gaming career in 2007 and has focused on Asian gaming markets since 2020. Outside of work, she writes about travel and film and plays the drums. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Ukraine's Ministries of Digital Transformation and Defence have unveiled plans to implement an automated system designed to block military personnel from using online gambling platforms. The initiative, disclosed on the ministry's official Facebook page this week, seeks to curb gambling addiction among service members while martial law remains in effect. The mechanism will operate by verifying login attempts on gambling sites against two critical databases: a register of prohibited individuals and the armed forces personnel list. When the system identifies a user with restricted status, it will automatically deny access to online gambling services. According to ministry officials, gambling operators will only receive a simple "yes/no" response regarding access permission, without receiving any personal or military-specific data. A preventative measure against gambling addiction This measure is part of a wider, coordinated campaign to address gambling addiction. "We are continuing our systematic battle against gambling addiction. Our objective is to safeguard military personnel and their families from the dangers and fallout of gambling addiction," the announcement stated on Tuesday. The statement also highlighted joint efforts with the Ministry of Defence to restrict Ukraine's defenders from engaging in gambling while martial law is in place. This new system builds on legal limitations implemented earlier in 2024, which prohibited service members from accessing online casinos during martial law and introduced stricter controls on gambling advertisements. PlayCity’s enforcement action PlayCity, the platform appointed as the state authority overseeing gambling and lotteries after policy responsibilities shifted to the Ministry of Digital Transformation, will oversee the implementation and enforcement of the login restriction mechanism. Ukraine is already cracking down on illegal gambling operations. In 2024, following the ministry's request, Apple and Google eliminated dozens of unlicensed casino applications from their platforms. Moreover, Ukrainian state authorities have shut down thousands of illegal gambling websites. The program is component of an extensive digital reform designed to bring a large underground gambling market under control. It aims to minimize damage to at-risk groups, including military members. Officials have also signaled upcoming plans to strengthen advertising limitations, prevent exploitation via multiple accounts, and enhance technical tools to combat illegal operators. PlayCity reported significant enforcement activity during the past year and will incorporate this log-in screen restriction into broader market supervision responsibilities. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Playtech has initiated a strategic review of its UK-based white label Sun Bingo operation, Chief Financial Officer Chris McGinnis informed analysts on the company's full-year 2025 earnings call. McGinnis stated the business is projected to become unprofitable once the new 40% remote gaming duty takes effect in the UK this April. Elaborating on the review, McGinnis expressed a long-term belief in Sun Bingo's place within Playtech, noting that while it is customer-facing, the operation exhibits more business-to-business than business-to-consumer traits. Playtech took over from Gamesys as the supplier for Sun Bingo in 2015. The company reported in its second-quarter 2025 results that Sun Bingo and other B2C activities were affected by stricter UK regulations. These regulatory shifts were a factor in a 17% revenue drop and lower adjusted EBITDA at that time. Playtech's overall B2C revenue fell 20% year-on-year in 2025 to €78.5 million, a decrease primarily attributed to the divestment of its German Happybet operation. The supplier expressed significantly greater optimism for prospects in Brazil and the wider Latin American region, even after encountering challenges there in 2025 from Colombia's temporary betting VAT and Brazil's move to a regulated market early in the year. Playtech bullish on Brazil Caixa bank opportunity Chief Executive Mor Weizer showed strong enthusiasm for a potential partnership with Brazil's state-owned Caixa Economica Federal bank to introduce a betting brand. Playtech won the tender to supply its platform in 2025, but Caixa's intended launch was postponed in November following political pressure within Brazil. Senator Damaras Alves strongly criticized Caixa in October, calling its plans a "contradictory, dangerous and profoundly irresponsible move". Although the initiative remains on hold for now, Caixa's betting aspirations may find new life as Brazil approaches a general election in October. Commenting on the deal, Weizer cautioned against over-optimism but suggested the Caixa tender might represent "one of the most significant opportunities for Playtech for the coming years". He stated: "This is one of the largest banks in a country with 150 million adults; it has 140 million registered customers. The market access and brand recognition are unmatched." Weizer is confident that a Caixa betting product has the potential to quickly become the market leader in Brazil. On broader Brazilian operations, Playtech executives indicated the market will need additional capital expenditure in the upcoming year. The Americas region was a notable performer for Playtech in 2025, driven by robust growth in the US (revenue increased around 100%) and an updated agreement with Caliente in Mexico. Playtech anticipates a further boost in the region during 2026 from the World Cup, which will be partially hosted in Mexico, Caliente's home base. Playtech revenue dipped 10% in 2025 The group's total revenue for 2025 decreased by 10% from the prior year to €763.6 million, with EBITDA also falling 9% to €197 million. B2B revenue was down 9% year-on-year to €688.3 million, while adjusted EBITDA declined 36% to €141.4 million. Playtech said this was anticipated, resulting from the impact of the new Caliente Interactive contract. Despite facing increased taxation in several markets, the group forecasts its full-year 2026 performance will exceed current market expectations. Nicole MacedoNicole cut her teeth in local news rooms at home in Gibraltar, and helped to establish the peninsula’s first online-only broadcaster. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - As Spanish gaming firm Codere is said to be on the market, M&A specialist Christian Tirabassi anticipates several major gambling companies might compete to acquire it—though private equity firms are the most probable purchasers. Per a report by Spanish publication Expansión, Codere is being offered for sale at a value exceeding €2 billion (equivalent to $2.3 billion). The goal is said to be finalizing a purchase deal before the August summer break. The transaction is also said to include Codere Online, the group’s digital arm that operates mainly in Spain and Latin America. Tirabassi—founder and senior partner at M&A consultancy Ficom Leisure—describes Codere’s sale as “very much a private equity opportunity.” That said, he also notes that several global gambling behemoths might throw their hats in the ring for Codere, even though he doesn’t identify any “obvious natural buyer.” “Lottomatica will check it out, DraftKings will look into it, Entain will explore it,” Tirabassi tells iGB. “This is a deal for the major players, as it opens doors to multiple markets.” Tirabassi’s views align with those of Ed Birkin, managing director of H2 Gambling Capital, who told iGB on Wednesday that he considers Allwyn International or Flutter Entertainment the most probable buyers, with private equity as another viable choice. Is Codere’s €2 billion valuation too steep? Birkin stated that the proposed €2 billion valuation for Codere might put it beyond the reach of most operators not in the top tier. Tirabassi also thinks the figure is too high, but he posits that the leaked price is an intentional strategy. “Look, this is public relations,” Tirabassi goes on. “They obviously leaked the details to establish the price in the market. I don’t buy it.” “To give you context, we have a thorough grasp of every market they operate in, their revenue in each, and their capital expenditures. There’s no way to justify the valuation that was cited.” Codere urgently needs investment Codere is owned by around 84 investment funds, and Tirabassi notes that this sale process is clearly a result of the owners ending up in an unforeseen situation. “Obviously, the bondholders or debt holders became owners of Codere without actually wanting to,” Tirabassi clarifies. “They never anticipated being shareholders of this firm.” “So, they likely tried to figure out what to do with it. They realized it wasn’t their cup of tea, so they put it up for sale. It’s that straightforward.” This lack of interest has resulted in a critical shortage of investment in Codere, leaving the business what Tirabassi calls “fatigued.” Tirabassi says Codere is currently like a “ship without a compass or anyone at the helm.” “It’s underinvested and undercapitalized, and now it’s struggling due to competition in every market it operates in,” Tirabassi states. “The business needs someone with a clear strategic plan to revitalize it.” “It needs a lot of attention, capital, and a roadmap. Everywhere you look, it seems like no one has invested any money into it—like everything has been stuck in time for five years.” Codere still has value to unlock Even with Codere’s challenges, Tirabassi believes there’s still an opportunity to generate value in the business—provided substantial investment is injected. This suggests it could draw interest from gambling operators, as the acquisition would be worthwhile even with the associated “headaches.” “There’s no doubt that a lot of value can be created moving forward,” Tirabassi asserts. “They operate in all segments except lottery, and in theory, they have a unified digital brand.” “So, this could be attractive to anyone looking to establish a strong presence in Spanish-focused markets, and their Italian operations are also quite robust, even in a competitive landscape.” While much of the gambling industry is shifting more toward digital, Tirabassi notes there’s still a genuine demand for businesses that are mainly land-based. “First off, land-based operations are profitable— that’s obvious,” he adds. “It does need to be streamlined, and the chain of control needs to be integrated, but it’s a money-making business.” “Second, if you effectively combine digital and land-based operations, it’s a very strong offering. It works exceptionally well. It also shields you from additional advertising restrictions. When you have land-based presence, you’re naturally less concerned about ad limits—which I think will keep popping up in many markets.” Will Codere Online be part of the sale? But Tirabassi also points out that omnichannel offerings need to maintain various synergies to stay profitable—a key area where he believes Codere is significantly deficient. A large part of the response to Codere’s sale news stemmed from reports that Codere Online would be included in the transaction. Codere Online was spun off in 2021 and listed on the US Nasdaq exchange, though Codere Group still holds a majority stake. Tirabassi insists Codere Online must be part of any deal, stating: “Today, Codere is essentially two separate entities with distinct profit and loss statements. They collaborate via a commercial agreement, but it’s not effective.” “The decision to carve out the digital arm was, in my opinion, very odd—if not outright ill-advised—from the start.” “Obviously, it has to be part of the package. And I’m certain the seller wants to highlight the digital component to boost the valuation multiple—even if I’m not sure how many buyers will buy into that. That’s exactly what I’d do if I were the seller.” Kyle GoldsmithKyle joined Clarion in December 2023, coming from sports journalism, and later became a senior reporter for iGB focusing on Latin America. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - This week, Malta's Economy Minister Silvio Schembri announced that the country is "actively exploring the emerging field of prediction markets, a sector gaining rapid global traction and offering considerable opportunities for innovation." He noted that any legislative amendments would require "a clear, forward-looking framework that allows the sector to grow responsibly and at scale." Minister Schembri stressed the vital role of user trust. "We understood from the outset that for this industry to expand, users must feel secure, which necessitates maintaining the highest levels of transparency and compliance." According to Business Now, he made these remarks during the inauguration of Blockchain.com's new Malta offices on wednesday. Strategic positioning in a rapidly evolving market The global prediction markets industry has demonstrated considerable growth recently. In December 2025, monthly trading volumes hit a record high of over $18 billion, with platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket fueling much of this growth. Prediction markets operate similarly to financial exchanges but for real-world events, where participants trade contracts linked to particular outcomes. Regulators face the challenge that prediction market platforms do not align with current gambling compliance frameworks, while operators largely contend that their offerings should be regulated as financial contract trading. How the underlying data for settling contracts is sourced and the methods for verifying outcomes have become key focus areas for regulators. In most of Europe, authorities currently view prediction markets as either illegal gambling or unlicensed financial instruments, since no dedicated regulatory frameworks are yet in place. Numerous European jurisdictions, including Germany, Belgium, Portugal, Switzerland, Romania, the Netherlands, and Poland, have moved to block access to Polymarket, claiming the platform provides gambling services without proper licensing. Malta may become the first European jurisdiction to establish a dedicated framework for prediction markets. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - bet365 telah secara rasmi keluar daripada American Gaming Association, menandakan bet365 sebagai salah satu daripada banyak syarikat perjudian dalam talian penting yang meninggalkan pertubuhan perjudian Amerika Syarikat. Kedua-dua bet365 dan AGA mengesahkan peralihan ini. bet365 menyatakan bahawa ketidaksejajaran dalam keutamaan adalah motivasi di sebalik pengumuman ini. Sebagai syarikat berasaskan digital, penekanan AGA pada kasino berasaskan premis fizikal tidak sejajar dengan model perniagaan bet365 yang hanya dalam talian. bet365 memang menekankan bahawa mereka akan terus memupuk hubungan positif dengan kedua-dua pengawal selia dan rakan kongsi industri. Keputusan ini mencerminkan trend yang semakin meningkat bagi pengendali yang meninggalkan Persatuan ini. DraftKings, FanDuel, dan Fanatics Betting and Gaming semuanya baru-baru ini mengalami keluaran yang sebahagian besarnya berdasarkan perbezaan pendapat mengenai kecekapan pasaran ramalan dan bagaimana ia seharusnya berfungsi dalam industri. Walaupun bet365 tidak lagi bersama AGA, mereka masih terus mengembangkan pasaran di AS. Mereka terus melakukan usaha besar untuk membesar perniagaan termasuk pembinaan ibu pejabat utama di Denver, dan permulaan operasi di beberapa bidang kuasa baru. Selain itu, kehadiran kasino dalam talian mereka di pasaran seperti New Jersey dan Pennsylvania telah mengalami kira-kira 50% pertumbuhan tahun ke tahun. Keputusan bet365 mewujudkan pemisahan lebih lanjut antara syarikat digital dan syarikat tradisional berasaskan tanah di industri perjudian AS. Artikel ini disediakan oleh penyedia kandungan pihak ketiga. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) tidak memberikan sebarang jaminan atau representasi berkaitan kandungannya. Kategori: Berita Terkini, Kemas Kini Umum AsiaGameHub menyediakan perkhidmatan pengedaran iGaming yang disasarkan untuk syarikat dan organisasi, dengan menghubungkan lebih daripada 3,000 media premium di Asia serta lebih 80,000 influencer khusus. Ia berfungsi sebagai jambatan utama untuk pengedaran kandungan iGaming, kasino, dan eSports di seluruh rantau ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - BetMGM didenda $100,000 oleh Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) kerana pelanggaran berkaitan penipuan yang berlaku pada 2023-2024. BetMGM mempunyai kekurangan dalam proses pengesahannya dan membenarkan individu membuka akaun dengan identiti yang dicuri dan membiayai akaun tersebut menggunakan sumber pembayaran yang telah disusupi. BetMGM tidak mengambil langkah berjaga-jaga yang mencukupi terhadap aktiviti penipuan, yang mengakibatkan denda tersebut. PGCB juga melarang 16 individu daripada berjudi, di mana beberapa daripadanya termasuk insiden di mana kanak-kanak ditinggalkan tanpa pengawasan di kasino berasaskan darat. Ini bukan perkara pematuhan pertama yang dihadapi oleh BetMGM di Pennsylvania. Pada awal tahun ini, pengendali tersebut didenda $260,905 kerana membenarkan pemain yang mengecualikan diri sendiri untuk berjudi. Pengendali tersebut juga telah dikenakan denda lain di Massachusetts kerana menyediakan pasaran pertaruhan yang tidak dibenarkan dan pemasaran kepada penjudi di bawah umur. Denda terkini ini menunjukkan pemeriksaan kawal selia yang berterusan dikenakan ke atas pengendali untuk meningkatkan kawalan KYC mereka dan mengurangkan penipuan pada platform mereka. BetMGM memilih untuk tidak mengulas mengenai penemuan tersebut. Artikel ini disediakan oleh penyedia kandungan pihak ketiga. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) tidak memberikan sebarang jaminan atau representasi berkaitan kandungannya. Kategori: Berita Terkini, Kemas Kini Umum AsiaGameHub menyediakan perkhidmatan pengedaran iGaming yang disasarkan untuk syarikat dan organisasi, dengan menghubungkan lebih daripada 3,000 media premium di Asia serta lebih 80,000 influencer khusus. Ia berfungsi sebagai jambatan utama untuk pengedaran kandungan iGaming, kasino, dan eSports di seluruh rantau ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Brazil telah melaksanakan penindakan yang dipertingkatkan terhadap perjudian haram melalui pengesahan Undang-Undang No. 15,358/2025 yang memberi kuasa kepada kedua-dua Bank Pusat dan Kementerian Kewangan untuk menyekat akaun bank dan transaksi Pix yang berkaitan dengan pengendali perjudian tanpa lesen. Perundangan baru ini memerlukan semua institusi kewangan untuk membekukan akaun bank dan menyekat transaksi yang berkaitan dengan perjudian haram sambil memastikan proses yang sewajarnya dan melindungi dana pemain. Undang-undang ini juga menetapkan sistem untuk memerlukan perkongsian maklumat dengan organisasi kewangan lain untuk mengesan dan mencegah penipuan dalam sistem kewangan. Pengawal selia akan memberikan pengawasan yang lebih ketat untuk pembayaran Pix dengan membangunkan pemantauan transaksi yang lebih ketat dan mewujudkan kemungkinan menggunakan penapis untuk menyekat aktiviti yang mencurigakan. Syarikat yang gagal mematuhi peraturan baru ini mungkin dikenakan denda, penggantungan lesen dan penalti lain. Semua langkah di atas merupakan langkah besar ke arah meningkatkan pengawasan transaksi kewangan dan pendekatan proaktif untuk menghapuskan semua bentuk perjudian haram di Brazil. Artikel ini disediakan oleh penyedia kandungan pihak ketiga. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) tidak memberikan sebarang jaminan atau representasi berkaitan kandungannya. Kategori: Berita Terkini, Kemas Kini Umum AsiaGameHub menyediakan perkhidmatan pengedaran iGaming yang disasarkan untuk syarikat dan organisasi, dengan menghubungkan lebih daripada 3,000 media premium di Asia serta lebih 80,000 influencer khusus. Ia berfungsi sebagai jambatan utama untuk pengedaran kandungan iGaming, kasino, dan eSports di seluruh rantau ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Macau Legend Development Ltd yang tersenarai di Hong Kong menjangkakan kerugian hampir HKD 1.57 bilion (sekitar $200 Juta) pada tahun 2025, peningkatan besar daripada kerugian HKD 623 juta yang direkodkan untuk tahun 2024. Penyingkiran keseluruhan Macau daripada operasi elektronik dan perjudianannya telah memainkan peranan penting dalam kemerosotan syarikat selepas Legend Palace ditutup di Macau Fisherman’s Wharf pada 12 November 2025, apabila perjanjian perkhidmatannya dengan SJM Holdings tamat kerana penyingkiran berperingkat kasino satelit yang lebih luas di Macau. Kerugian yang diramalkan untuk syarikat itu terutamanya disebabkan oleh caj susut nilai HKD 1.18 bilion yang dicatatkan pada tahun 2025, jauh lebih tinggi daripada HKD 376 juta yang berkaitan dengan kasino dan aset lain pada tahun 2020. Selain susut nilai aset, Macau Legend juga telah memasukkan perbelanjaan berkaitan pekerja sebanyak HKD 71 juta untuk pembayaran khidmat bakti berkaitan penutupan mereka, serta bayaran untuk pekerjaan yang berkaitan dengan penutupan kasino, yang juga telah memberi impak dramatik kepada prestasi kewangan syarikat. Tindakan kerajaan Macau untuk menghapuskan kasino satelit menjelang 31 Disember 2025, telah memberi kesan ketara kepada keupayaan pengendali seperti Macau Legend untuk membina semula model perniagaan mereka. Penutupan Legend Palace adalah contoh bagaimana perubahan dalam peraturan secara langsung memberi kesan kepada nilai aset dan model perniagaan jangka panjang pengendali. Melangkah ke hadapan, syarikat itu akan melihat kepada portfolio bukan perjudianannya untuk menstabilkan prestasi kewangannya dan tanpa operasi kasino, akan terus ada cabaran dalam mewujudkan sumber pendapatan lain sebelum tahun 2026. Artikel ini disediakan oleh penyedia kandungan pihak ketiga. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) tidak memberikan sebarang jaminan atau representasi berkaitan kandungannya. Kategori: Berita Terkini, Kemas Kini Umum AsiaGameHub menyediakan perkhidmatan pengedaran iGaming yang disasarkan untuk syarikat dan organisasi, dengan menghubungkan lebih daripada 3,000 media premium di Asia serta lebih 80,000 influencer khusus. Ia berfungsi sebagai jambatan utama untuk pengedaran kandungan iGaming, kasino, dan eSports di seluruh rantau ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) has set up the country’s first specialized academic center solely focused on student gambling. Endorsed by the university’s board of trustees, the new Centre on Collegiate Gambling will lead research, prevention, and treatment efforts, as well as assess effects on the integrity of collegiate sports. This launch occurs amid increased legislative activity in the state, such as the recent approval of a second sports betting bill by the state’s House of Representatives. This initiative is driven by recent findings that underscore significant gambling activity among college students. A multi-campus study carried out by Ole Miss researchers polled students from seven state universities. It found that 39% of those surveyed had gambled in the past year. Sports betting proved to be the most prevalent type of student gambling. Notably, 6% of student sports bettors met the American Psychiatric Association’s standards for problem gambling, with numerous others facing moderate risk. The study also pinpointed demographic trends associated with greater gambling frequency, including male students, white students, those residing off-campus, and members of Greek life groups. More than half (58%) of student gamblers indicated they used online sportsbooks. The Ole Miss center will seek to address a research void by methodically examining various gambling behaviors on college campuses. This will cover everything from card games to emerging prediction markets, and will create evidence-based prevention and treatment approaches. Additionally, it will look into how gambling activities impact the integrity of college sports. The initiative will also align with recent, more extensive national policy changes, such as the introduction of the first bipartisan federal measure in over a decade intended to boost funding for gambling addiction research. ‘More direct efforts were needed in the collegiate gambling space’ Daniel Durkin, an associate professor of social work at Ole Miss, emphasized the need for coordinated action. “We were witnessing a growing gambling issue, and not many people were actually taking steps to address it,” Durkin said. He attributed attending national gambling conferences to sparking a strategic change: “When we began attending national gambling conferences, that’s when we recognized that more focused efforts were required in the collegiate gambling sphere.” Mississippi’s gambling environment has complexities that affect student behaviors. The state enforces strict regulations on in-person casino operations, and legislative discussions persist regarding the legalization of online sports betting. Industry observers note that prediction markets and offshore betting operators offer alternative avenues for student betting, bypassing current legal limitations on mobile platforms. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Reports indicate Codere is on the market with a valuation surpassing €2 billion (or $2.3 billion). Spanish newspaper Expansión stated on Wednesday that Codere has engaged Jefferies and Macquarie Capital as advisors to prepare the firm for a sale. According to the report, interested parties are expected to submit non-binding offers for Codere by mid-May, with a final purchase agreement to be finalized before the August summer break. Currently, Codere’s ownership is divided among roughly 84 investment funds. In 2024, Codere completed a recapitalization deal that cut its corporate debt from €1.4 billion to around €190 million. The company noted this would secure a “future of stability and growth” and enable it to pursue further expansion in LatAm and Europe. “With an optimal debt structure and greater liquidity, Codere is positioned to seize new expansion opportunities in its key markets, consolidating its leadership in the sector,” the group said in a statement upon the recapitalization’s completion. Codere currently operates in European markets including Spain and Italy, as well as LatAm markets like Mexico, Argentina, Panama, Uruguay, and Colombia. Reports suggest Codere Online would be part of any potential sale of the broader business. Allwyn as a Potential Codere Suitor Ed Birkin, managing director of H2 Gambling Capital, told iGB he believes the rumored €2 billion valuation will be too high for most buyers. He named Allwyn International and Flutter Entertainment as potential acquirers, while remaining in private equity is another viable option. In January, Allwyn closed its $1.6 billion acquisition of a 62.3% stake in PrizePicks. On a post-FY2025 investor call, CEO Robert Chvátal said the company was exploring other M&A opportunities, though primarily focused on proprietary sportsbook technology. Birkin also noted Codere could be an “interesting omnichannel opportunity” for operators looking to enter the LatAm market. iGB will provide more updates on this story as it unfolds… This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Sportradar has introduced its own iGaming brand, describing it as a combination of its sports data proficiency and casino offerings, representing the "next step in the evolution" of its iGaming division. Announced on Tuesday, the new brand, Playradar, will utilize Sportradar's sports data to create exclusive hybrid betting products. Playradar will offer a continuous live experience center where players can watch sports livestreams and place real-money wagers. The platform includes social functionalities that allow users to engage with each other in real time by exchanging insights, reactions, and tips. Access to both live and archived sports and casino streaming will be provided, with the goal of transforming key sporting moments into event-based gameplay that merges sports streaming with casino-style mechanics. Sportradar stated the brand will function exclusively in regulated markets, with game launches planned across 2026. An initial rollout is scheduled for the UK, North America, and Latin America. The company noted that most of its current clients already run both sports betting and casino operations, positioning Playradar as a "natural channel" for sustained revenue generation. Founder and CEO Carsten Koerl commented that the product will enhance the company's capacity to implement its long-term growth plan. “Playradar content is engineered to facilitate optimized cross-selling between sports and casinos, assisting operators in boosting player value and session duration at a time when user engagement and retention are crucial for operational sustainability,” Koerl said. Haitin brought in to lead Sportradar’s iGaming charge In early January, Sportradar revealed the hiring of Edo Haitin for the role of executive vice president of iGaming. Haitin brought more than two decades of industry experience, having previously held the position of CEO at Playtech Live. “We have a unique capability to effortlessly integrate live and historical sports events, innovative gaming mechanics, and casino content, and we benefit from the advantage of distributing games to a portfolio of operators that is already licensed,” Haitin said. “I am tremendously enthusiastic about further reinforcing our iGaming business via Playradar and developing it into a frontrunner in iGaming content, by capitalizing on Sportradar's current assets and the deeply experienced and talented team already assembled.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - During this morning's FY2025 earnings call, Zeal Network executives informed analysts that the company is exploring potential investments in more social lotteries and prize draw ventures beyond Germany. Dr Stefan Tweraser, the recently appointed CEO of the German lottery operator, stated that Zeal possesses a robust financial reserve for investment purposes, with additional details to be disclosed later in 2026. The company's overall results showed a 16% revenue increase across all operations, reaching €218 million. The lotteries division accounted for the bulk of this figure (89%), also posting a 16% year-over-year revenue gain. The period's revenue exceeded the September projection of €205-215 million by 2%. EBITDA reached €68.8 million, hitting the upper limit of the earlier €63-68 million guidance. Gaming revenue climbed 46% for the period. Company executives commended Zeal's 21% increase in marketing expenditure over the year. CFO Andrea Behrendt informed analysts that this upward trend is projected to persist into 2026, as Zeal intensifies its strategy for investing in environments without jackpots. Marketing expenditure is anticipated to outpace revenue growth in 2026. Behrendt noted that this investment has yielded returns, creating considerable value for shareholders. The expansion into additional digital marketing channels in 2025 enabled the company to enhance its partnership strategies, according to the CFO. New customers grew despite weak jackpot environment A key highlight of the FY25 earnings report was Zeal's customer base expansion, achieved despite what was characterized as a challenging jackpot environment in 2025. The lottery segment added 7% more registered customers during the 12-month period, totaling 1.2 million. Monthly active users (MAUs) for lotteries increased 8% year-over-year to 1.6 million. In the gaming division, MAUs hit 30,000 in FY25, representing a 36% increase. Behrendt stated that this demonstrated Zeal's ability to boost customer acquisition even during periods between jackpots. She added that lottery customer acquisition has grown less reliant on jackpots, resulting in greater stability. Nevertheless, the subdued jackpot environment in 2025 caused lottery cost-per-lead to rise by 32%. In response to questions about its prize draw operations and domestic competition in Germany, Tweraser asserted that Zeal dominates the 'dream house raffle' segment, with rivals falling short of its scale, customer growth generation, and capacity to drive lotteries from offline to online. The company anticipates scaling up its Traumhausverlosung operation to raffle as many as one house per month going forward. With Germany still undergoing a review of Interstate Treaty gambling rules, an analyst inquired whether Zeal foresees any regulatory shifts ahead. Tweraser responded that no major changes are expected and that the operator maintains close communication with the GGL. Zeal expects revenue uptick of up to 19% in 2026 Zeal projects 2026 revenue between €250 million and €260 million, representing a potential 19% rise over 2025. EBITDA is forecasted at €70-75 million, which already incorporates higher investment levels compared to 2025 aimed at further diversifying the company's portfolio. Nicole MacedoNicole began her career in local newsrooms in her native Gibraltar, where she contributed to launching the peninsula's first exclusively online broadcaster. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Hector Fernandez, Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif IGT, menyatakan bahawa kira-kira 700 pekerja akan diberhentikan daripada pekerjaan mereka, yang bersamaan dengan kira-kira 10% daripada keseluruhan tenaga kerja global syarikat itu. Fernandez menulis dalam suratnya bertarikh 23 Mac yang mengumumkan pemberhentian kerja itu bahawa ia bukan disebabkan oleh prestasi yang buruk sebaliknya, "diperlukan untuk menyelaraskan sumber dengan keutamaan perniagaan dan memperkemas proses operasi untuk meletakkan diri kita lebih baik untuk pertumbuhan masa depan." CEO IGT Hector Fernandez menulis dalam surat itu: Apabila kita bertemu pada bulan Disember untuk dewan bandar raya syarikat pertama kita sejak saya mula sebagai CEO yang masuk, saya berkata kita akan bergerak pantas untuk menilai perniagaan kita dan membuat keputusan untuk menguatkannya. Sepanjang beberapa bulan yang lalu, kita telah menepati komitmen itu. Kita telah memeriksa di mana kita fokus, bagaimana kita beroperasi, dan bagaimana struktur kita menyokong strategi kita. Sebagai sebahagian daripada kajian itu, kita juga terpaksa membuat beberapa keputusan sukar tentang bagaimana organisasi kita distrukturkan, dan kerja ini telah membawa kepada langkah yang sukar tetapi perlu. IGT telah berjanji untuk membantu pekerja yang kehilangan pekerjaan mereka dengan cara berikut: dengan menyediakan pampasan pemberhentian, perkhidmatan penempatan semula dan sokongan untuk peralihan ke pekerjaan lain. Pekerja yang kehilangan pekerjaan mereka akan menerima sedikit bantuan daripada IGT. Masih belum diketahui lokasi geografi mana yang akan mempunyai pekerja yang terjejas, kawasan perniagaan IGT mana yang akan mempunyai pekerja yang terjejas, dan berapa banyak wang yang akan dijimatkan oleh IGT berikutan pemberhentian pekerja. Artikel ini disediakan oleh penyedia kandungan pihak ketiga. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) tidak memberikan sebarang jaminan atau representasi berkaitan kandungannya. Kategori: Berita Terkini, Kemas Kini Umum AsiaGameHub menyediakan perkhidmatan pengedaran iGaming yang disasarkan untuk syarikat dan organisasi, dengan menghubungkan lebih daripada 3,000 media premium di Asia serta lebih 80,000 influencer khusus. Ia berfungsi sebagai jambatan utama untuk pengedaran kandungan iGaming, kasino, dan eSports di seluruh rantau ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - At Sri Lanka's 2026 Global Game Connect (GGC) conference, officials reaffirmed their dedication to a lawful, equitable, and sustainable gaming industry. The event was held earlier this month at City of Dreams Sri Lanka, South Asia's first integrated resort. The $1.2 billion IR, featuring a casino managed by Melco Resorts & Entertainment, launched in 2025 and stands as the largest private investment in Sri Lanka to date. Deputy Minister of Industries and Entrepreneurship Development Chathuranga Abeysinghe informed conference attendees, "Technology combined with creativity will propel this industry. … From a governmental standpoint, we will provide our complete backing to advance this industry both domestically and across the region". Sri Lanka leverages its strategic location—four hours by air from Southeast Asia and two hours from India. "We possess substantial potential for [gaming], especially regarding expanding neighboring markets such as India," stated Deputy Transport Minister Susil Ranasinghe at GGC. Stricter regulation a prerequisite for operators Stringent regulation is essential to attract operators like Melco, a global entity headquartered in Macau. The 2025 Sri Lanka Gambling Regulatory Act mandates "transparency and good governance" to build "public trust in the gambling industry’s integrity". It prohibits "irresponsible products and practices" and mandates programs "to reduce social harm linked to gambling". Additionally, it incorporates measures to combat financial crimes such as money laundering and to prevent individuals under 18 from gambling. City of Dreams Sri Lanka hosted the first Global Game Connect trade show, March 16-17. South Asia's first integrated resort may serve as a leading indicator for global operators exploring new markets. This legislation covers both land-based and online gaming. Officials note that 60% to 70% of gamblers currently use illegal offshore services. Penalties for unlicensed iGaming operators include fines of up to Rs. 10 million ($107,000) or imprisonment for up to two years. The independent Gambling Regulatory Authority, established in 2025, was created to enforce the act. It is scheduled to be fully operational by the end of June. Sri Lanka links gaming, tourism As Sri Lanka continues its recovery from the 2022 economic crisis, officials are establishing a direct connection between gaming and tourism. They aim for up to 3 million visitor arrivals this year, exceeding the 2025 record of 2.3 million. Their strategy involves branding the island as a destination for high-end tourists, including gamblers. The $4.5 billion tourism revenue target is based on an average daily per-person expenditure of $160, an increase from $140 in 2025. With a rise in the gaming levy from 15% to 18% and increased casino entry fees for locals, gaming revenue is projected to generate an extra $250 million annually. However, for physical casinos, most revenue is likely to come from foreign visitors. One estimate indicates that the local entry levy, which doubled last year from $50 to $100, equals 40%~60% of a Colombo office worker’s starting monthly salary. Thus, Sri Lanka is broadening its reach. According to Tourism Development Authority Chairman Buddhika Hewawasam, the country identifies Saudi Arabia, the broader Middle East, and the United States as potential source markets. On the sidelines of GGC, a representative from iGaming platform provider Diamante Tech noted that stricter gaming regulation in Sri Lanka has increased its attractiveness to global manufacturers and suppliers. "There’s a feeling that people are now taking notice of the Sri Lankan market. It’s a very positive step… and a good opportunity. It’s only going to expand." Marjorie PrestonMarjorie began her gaming career in 2007 and has focused on Asian gaming markets since 2020. Outside of work, she writes about travel and film and plays the drums. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.