Category: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) - CoinPoker has revealed that its upcoming World Poker Masters (WPM) will be the platform’s largest tournament series to date. Running from May 3 through June 1, this cryptocurrency poker series offers $25 million in guaranteed prize pools, with key highlights including: $2,500,000 Main Event $500,000 Mini Main Event $500,000 in leaderboard competitions Several events with million-dollar guarantees The Warm Up Stage will kick off before the WPM, running from April 26 to May 2 within the CoinPoker lobby. Players can earn seats in premier tournaments—including the $2.5 million Guaranteed Main Event—through daily satellite games and feeders that feature micro- and low-stakes buy-ins. $2.5M Guaranteed Main Event’s Record Prize Pool The WPM is headlined by a $2.5 million Guaranteed Main Event—the largest in CoinPoker’s history—with a $350 buy-in. Here’s the Guaranteed Main Event’s multi-flight structure: Day 1 flights take place every Sunday throughout the series A final Day 1E flight is scheduled for May 31 All surviving players move on to Day 2 on June 1, the final day of the Main Event Players advance only with their best stack and strongest position as they head into the final stages. The finale will see competitors vying for a share of the record $2.5 million prize pool and the World Poker Masters title. Just a couple weeks until the World Poker Masters $25M in prize pools. $530 Main $2.5M GTD $55 Mini Main $500K GTD PLUS high rollers up to $25K. May 3 – June 1. Click the link below for the full schedule pic.twitter.com/iMXNCYPxD3— CoinPoker (@CoinPoker_OFF) April 17, 2026 Other WPM Highlight Tournaments The $2.5 million Main Event is joined by other high-value tournaments that add significant value for participants. $55 Mini Main Event: $500,000 GuaranteedDay 1 flights run daily during the series leading up to Day 2 on May 31. $215 CoinMillion: $1,000,000 GuaranteedA two-day tournament offering some of CoinPoker’s top value. $1.5K CoinMasters BITCOIN High Roller: $1,000,000 GuaranteedA multi-flight version of the classic BITCOIN event, featuring a massive guarantee and a physical CoinMasters Coin prize for the winner. Trophy Cabinet & Player Experience The Trophy Cabinet, a new CoinPoker feature, will make its debut at the World Poker Masters. This allows players to showcase their achievements on their CoinPoker profiles. Victories are rewarded with unique trophies, creating a performance record across the World Poker Masters and CoinMasters. The Trophy Cabinet is designed to boost player engagement by recognizing skill and adding a competitive layer beyond prize money. 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 the Los Angeles Lakers prepare to kick off their 2026 NBA Playoffs opener this weekend, a former team assistant with close connections to LeBron James is scheduled to plead guilty in a wide-ranging gambling case that has shaken the sport. Damon Jones, a former unpaid assistant for the Lakers, is expected to be the first defendant to enter a guilty plea in this high-profile case. Jones, who was LeBron James’ former teammate with the Cleveland Cavaliers, faces felony charges linked to the New York-based illegal gambling investigation. Once self-described as the best “long-range shooter in the world”, Jones is set to appear before a U.S. magistrate judge for a change of plea hearing on April 28, according to court filings unsealed this week. Jones is accused of illegally sharing non-public information about a Lakers player’s injury status with a group of bettors. While James is not named in any charges in the complaint, he matches the description of the player in question. An 11-year NBA veteran, Jones is also accused of leaking inside information about the health of a player that fits the profile of former Lakers All-Star forward Anthony Davis. Though Davis is not facing charges either, two other NBA figures are: Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups and former Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier. Jones is not cooperating with federal prosecutors, according to his attorney Kenneth Montgomery. “There is a standard federal process for defendants entering pleas in federal criminal matters,” Montgomery told iGB Friday. “This case will move forward through that standard process just like the thousands of other federal cases in this district. No, he is not a cooperating witness.” At the Core of the Case Like Billups, Jones is one of more than two dozen defendants in U.S. vs Aiello, a fixed poker case that includes multiple members of New York organized crime families. In addition, Jones is one of three defendants also charged in U.S. vs Earnest, a broad illegal sports betting case. In that probe, he is accused of selling injury status information on the two unnamed Lakers players to a criminal ringleader for betting purposes. Jones faces federal charges of wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy. Jones, Billups and Rozier were among the defendants indicted last October after a nationwide sweep carried out by federal law enforcement. The FBI, working alongside the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York, announced the charges at a Brooklyn press conference. Rozier, a 2015 NBA Draft first-round pick, is accused of intentionally underperforming in a regular-season game to deliver a specific betting result for an acquaintance. “Let’s not mince words, this is the insider trading scandal for the NBA,” FBI Director Kash Patel said at the press conference. Since the indictment, the three NBA-connected figures have made multiple appearances at a courthouse located within a mile of the Brooklyn Bridge. Separately, two MLB pitchers, Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz, are facing unrelated charges in Brooklyn over allegations of intentionally rigged pitching. Barring any unforeseen changes, the two pitchers’ trial is expected to begin this fall, per sources. Looking Back to the 2007 NBA Playoffs In Game 4 of the 2007 Eastern Conference Finals, Jones played 14 minutes in the Cavaliers’ 109-107 double overtime win over the Detroit Pistons. James, meanwhile, scored 48 points against the Pistons in a game that helped launch him to future stardom. Coincidentally, Billups led the Pistons in scoring with 21 points that night. Minutes before a November status hearing in Brooklyn, Billups sat at a large court table while Jones walked past just a few feet away. Neither former player shook hands or spoke to each other in the tense encounter. Billups faces multiple counts in the illegal poker case. When iGB asked Billups last month if he planned to plead guilty, he declined to comment. By 2023, Jones reconnected with James while working as an unpaid assistant for the Lakers. That February, James missed a matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks, two days after setting the NBA’s all-time career scoring record. According to a criminal complaint, Jones received $2,500 for leaking information that a certain Lakers player would not play in the game — James missed the contest with an ankle injury. Ahead of Jones’ hearing at the end of this month, the government has an April 20 deadline to submit multiple filings to U.S. Magistrate Judge Joseph Marutollo. The judge has ordered prosecutors to file an elements sheet, a plea penalty document known as a Pimentel letter, and a letter outlining the government’s position on detention. According to a letter submitted to the judge Thursday, the government has filed a three-page proposed plea agreement. As of Friday, the filing remained sealed. Jones’ hearing is scheduled to take place one day after a motion to dismiss hearing for Rozier at the same courthouse. The Miami Heat formally released Rozier this week. Tonko: League Promises of Integrity Ring Hollow In the wake of the massive expansion of sports betting after the repeal of PASPA in 2018, state and federal political leaders have questioned whether the industry’s growth has tainted the integrity of sports. New York Representative Paul Tonko, co-author of the SAFE Bet Act, has worked to create a federal framework for legal sports wagering. Last fall, Tonko sent letters to at least seven sports league commissioners urging them to support the integrity safeguards included in the bill. “Claims of prioritizing integrity ring hollow when leagues have sold their credibility to gambling operators, integrated betting content into game broadcasts, normalized wagering for teenagers, glorified it in advertising, and then failed to stop criminal activity from taking root within the sport,” Tonko wrote in the letters. Next week, Tonko is scheduled to appear at a public health workshop in Boston alongside Connecticut Senator Richard Blumenthal, the other co-author of the act. Earlier this month, Blumenthal sent a letter to multiple league commissioners to voice concerns over the growing entrenchment of gambling and prediction markets in professional sports. Matt RybaltowskiMatt primarily covers long-form feature reporting on complex sports betting scandals. He also reports on finance, mergers and acquisitions, and other technological developments in the industry. 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 someone who occasionally places prop bets on college sports for fun, a complete ban would be hard to accept. However, we may have arrived at a moment where this idea warrants serious thought. Providence College professor Patrick Kelly, who recently started a course on the dangers of sports betting, is calling for the elimination of all college prop bets. “We have college athletes who are simply trying to play their sport receiving death threats,” Kelly told CasinoBeats. “The NCAA has a gambling issue. Every major league has a gambling issue. Major League Baseball, the NFL, the NBA, they all have gambling problems. They need to act because they haven't been as proactive as necessary.” Although bettors would likely still place college prop wagers with offshore books, Kelly argues that removing their commercials from television would be a significant victory. The spread of sportsbook advertising has certainly contributed to the current culture of normalized gambling. “You won't see it advertised on TV, and the ESPN commentators won't be discussing it as frequently,” Kelly stated. Abuse of College Athletes Continues to Rise The most unforgettable moment of this year's NCAA Tournament was UConn freshman Braylon Mullins‘s 35-foot last-second shot in the Elite Eight that eliminated Duke. Sadly and perhaps predictably, Mullins faced violent threats following his heroic play. FROM OUTER SPACE https://t.co/P8zlAS9KUd pic.twitter.com/RFOb8kFL8v— UConn Men's Basketball (@UConnMBB) March 29, 2026 “If I ever see you Braylon I’m literally going to f—ing hurt you,” an Instagram user wrote to Mullins. “I will seriously f— you up and make your life a living hell.” Consider the venom in that specific message, which might or might not be linked to a prop bet, and then multiply it by all the NCAA games and prop bets available all season. Prohibiting all college prop bets would at least help decrease the number of such messages. “That is absolutely the place to begin,” Kelly said. “They didn't agree to receive threats for missing a free throw at the buzzer, yet that's what's occurring for NCAA athletes. Professional athletes are a different matter; they're pros, and ideally the teams and leagues can take steps to assist them with that.” A new NCAA Student-Athlete Needs, Aspirations and Perspectives (SNAP) survey was published during March Madness. It found that one-third of Men's Division I basketball players said fans had directly blamed them for gambling losses. Furthermore, close to half (46%) reported experiencing some type of online, verbal, or physical harassment. Last week, Ohio legislators proposed a bill to ban all betting on college sports, three years after the state effectively eliminated college prop bets in 2024. Will additional states emulate Ohio's approach? Kelly, for his part, is working to make sure his students understand every type of harm associated with gambling. “Anyone following this topic has a solid grasp of the situation, and what encourages me about my students is that now they do as well,” he remarked. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - In 2025, marking a historic first for the Philippine gambling sector, online gambling accounted for more than 50% of the total revenue. Figures released by the Philippines Amusement and Gaming Corp (PAGCOR) on Thursday indicate that total gross gaming revenue rose by 6.39% last year to PHP396.14 billion (US$6.647 billion). From this total, e-games, e-bingo, and online poker generated PHP201.12 billion, equating to 50.77% of the overall figure. Online gambling “has overtaken licensed casinos as the largest GGR contributor,” according to PAGCOR Chairman and CEO Alejandro Tengco. This pattern emerged in the first quarter of 2025. During that period, which the Philippine Inquirer termed a “stunning revenue shift,” online gambling revenues surpassed those of land-based operations for the initial time. Through March, digital platforms comprised 49.36% of the revenue, while retail casinos contributed 47.32%. The rest came from PAGCOR‑operated gaming halls, which represented 3.31% of total GGR. “The downturn in land-based casinos is primarily fueled by the evolving behavior of players, with a growing number of customers selecting digital and online gaming platforms,” Tengco commented at that moment. The sector sustained its upward momentum notwithstanding a temporary decline last fall, which ensued after a ban on e-wallet usage for gambling was implemented. “The 2025 GGR results highlight the necessity of regulatory balance as the industry progresses,” Tengco stated. Marjorie PrestonMarjorie started her gaming career in 2007 and has specialized in Asian gaming markets since 2020. Outside of her professional life, she writes about travel and film and enjoys playing 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) - Recent scandals within the UFC have led to a drop in betting activity for the sport, per a report by InGame. This past January, UFC CEO Dana White called off a lightweight fight between Alexander Hernandez and Michael Johnson in Las Vegas following the detection of suspicious betting behavior by integrity monitors. “We received a call from the gaming integrity service, and I told them, ‘I’m not going through this crap again,’ so we scrapped the fight,” White stated at the time. Isaac Dulgarian’s November fight against Yadier del Valle triggered comparable warning signs, yet the match proceeded as planned even though there were exceptionally large bets placed on del Valle, the significant underdog. Dulgarian was defeated via submission in the opening round, and the UFC released him while a federal investigation was ongoing. “They’re gonna end up in f****** federal prison,” White declared. “Federal f****** prison. If you’re that f****** dumb, and someone else wants to try it, be my guest. There’s no amount of money worth ruining your life and landing in jail—especially federal prison.” Thomas Gable, Director of Borgata Race & Sportsbook, thinks these scandals have played a role in affecting UFC betting handle at his Atlantic City location. “We’ve noticed a recent reduction in UFC betting handle and activity,” Gable shared. “It’s probably a mix of several factors, with integrity concerns being one of them.” He added, “Our regular and knowledgeable UFC bettors are still highly engaged, but we’re seeing fewer casual bettors.” Although casual gamblers tend to place smaller bets on UFC, they contribute to a casino’s profits by playing table games, purchasing food and drinks, and staying in hotel accommodations. Additionally, the UFC launched its new seven-year partnership with Paramount+ in January, having been on ESPN platforms since 2019. “The switch to Paramount likely had an impact because when you watched ESPN, you were constantly exposed to a lot of UFC ads and promotions,” Gable noted. Looking Ahead to the UFC Event at the White House As UFC Freedom 250 is scheduled for June 14 at the White House, the sport is expected to experience an increase in positive media attention and betting handle. Dan Miller, a 27-year-old Las Vegas local and die-hard UFC fan, is exactly the type of audience the sport targets. “The White House fight card is gaining traction as a major event,” Miller said. “If it meets expectations, I’m excited to see what the next decade holds. The issue is, no matter how much they hype a fight, it’s the fighters who have to deliver exciting matches and compelling television.” As for Gable, he balances these possible benefits against the consequences of recent scandals and any that might emerge down the line. “If more reports of irregularities—especially those that confirm wrongdoing—keep emerging, it will keep hurting the UFC’s betting handle,” Gable explained. “At the end of the day, anyone who bets on a sport wants to be sure the competition is fair.” 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) - European player-loss litigation reached a pivotal moment this week after the European Court of Justice (ECJ) determined that member states have the authority to sue operators for violating local gambling regulations. The court also paved the way for additional restitution claims by supporting consumers who sue operators based in other member states for losses incurred on prohibited games. Industry legal experts note that while the decision in case C-440/23 (FB vs European Lotto and Betting Ltd) was expected, it will significantly impact the expanding player-loss litigation environment in Europe. “Primarily, I view this as a landmark ruling. However, I agree with the consensus that, fundamentally, there isn't anything inherently new in this decision,” stated Dr Terence Cassar, a partner at Malta's GTG law firm, in an interview with iGB. “We have seen several landmark rulings in recent months, so collectively, this outcome was anticipated.” Earlier ECJ judgments have similarly upheld local gambling regulations This marks the ECJ's third ruling in recent months that casts doubt on Malta's Article 56, a regulation designed to shield Malta-licensed operators from lawsuits throughout Europe. In January, a prominent case (C-77/24) from Austria, which operates a gambling monopoly, established that such cases should be adjudicated based on the local laws applicable when the losses occurred. This was a setback for operators involved in these disputes, who argued that Maltese regulations governing the relevant periods should override the local laws where the players were located. Subsequently, in March, an ECJ opinion regarding German operator Tipico reinforced the primacy of local licensing regimes, stating operators must comply with them provided they align with EU free movement principles. Tipico had contended that the German regulatory framework at the time was opaque and unfair, noting that it had attempted but failed to secure a German license during the period in question. Although the specifics vary, the consistent message from European judges is that the EU lacks the authority to override local gaming licensing requirements. Consequences for Malta’s Article 56A An Advocate General's opinion regarding Case C-683/24 is due on 23 April. Cassar notes this will directly affect Article 56A, as it assesses the legality of the legislation challenged by the EU. In June 2025, the European Commission sent a formal letter to Malta's government expressing concerns that Article 56A violates European law. Maltese MEP Peter Agius commented on LinkedIn today that the recent ruling struck a heavy blow against free movement in gaming. “Although the ruling does not address the validity of Malta's Article 56A, it highlights that cross-border gaming services face conflicting national regulations, which erodes legal certainty for operators,” he added. Cassar argues that an EU-wide gambling framework is necessary to resolve these issues on a continental scale. Calls for harmonizing EU regulations have intensified as member states struggle to curb the black market. Discussions regarding an EU-wide tax levy emerged earlier this year, with stakeholders warning that the continent's laws are excessively fragmented. In his post, Agius also endorsed a unified European framework, stating: “I repeat my calls for a genuine EU single market for online gaming and coordinated European action on third-party litigation funding.” The evolution of player-loss litigation When numerous player-loss cases were escalated to the ECJ in 2025, lawyers handling over 20,000 claims from German and Austrian players hoped European judges would clarify the interpretation of German gambling laws at the EU level. Claus Hambach, managing partner at Hambach and Hambach in Germany, told iGB last April that there were strong reasons for referring the cases, citing the “obvious inconsistency” of German regulations. Following years of litigation in regional and national courts, lawyers had hoped the ECJ would resolve the legal ambiguities. However, European judges have largely deferred to local regulations, instructing regional courts to enforce domestic laws. Nicole MacedoNicole began her career in local newsrooms in Gibraltar and played a key role in launching 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) - France’s regulated gambling market grew by 3% in 2025, achieving a total gross gaming revenue (GGR) of €14.1 billion ($16.6 billion), as detailed in the recent annual market review by the French gambling regulator l’Autorité Nationale des Jeux (ANJ). Announced on Thursday, this growth was largely propelled by online wagering, the national lottery, and a recovery in casino activities. The 3% rise in GGR, climbing from €13.7 billion in 2024, positions France’s gambling market growth similarly to other major European markets. It is slightly behind the UK’s 4.3% growth but exceeds Italy’s 1.9% increase. Online gambling displayed strong momentum, with GGR from competitive online gambling soaring 8.5% to €2.617 billion. This segment now makes up 18.5% of the total market, an increase from 16.4% in 2023. The online sector includes three primary segments—sports betting, horse racing betting, and poker—all of which saw revenue gains. This expansion occurs as France widens its regulatory reach to include new digital formats. The recently activated Jeux à Objets Numériques Monétisables (JONUM) framework brings oversight to monetizable digital games that feature gambling-like mechanics, such as tradeable in-game items. Although not officially classified as gambling, these products are now under specific regulation. Player engagement also saw an uptick. Unique online players increased by 7.5% to 4.2 million, while active player accounts grew by 7.1% to 6.1 million. Significantly, multi-activity players—those participating in multiple segments—jumped by 25%, indicating a shift in user behavior towards diversification. Sector performance The sports betting sector spearheaded online growth with a GGR of €1.766 billion, reflecting a 10.4% increase. Stakes rose by 12% to €11.517 billion. Sports betting now accounts for roughly 68% of online GGR, an increase of six percentage points over two years. Football and tennis were the main drivers, contributing 49% and 30% to the rise in stakes, respectively. Active sports betting accounts hit 5.3 million (+7.9%), with unique sports bettors numbering 3.6 million (+8.6%). Horse racing GGR grew by 2.4% to €326 million. Active accounts and unique players increased by 8.1% and 8.4% to 718,000 and 604,000, respectively. Poker revenue climbed 6.5% to €525 million, driven completely by tournament play. The poker player base expanded significantly, with active accounts up 16.5% to 2.5 million and unique players rising 15.1% to 1.9 million. FDJ United, the operator of the state lottery and retail sports betting monopoly, recorded a GGR of €6.95 billion (+2.8%), representing nearly half (49.2%) of the total market. The French lottery was a key growth factor, while European online operations (especially in the UK and the Netherlands) dropped by 8%. Casinos reported a 3.4% rise in GGR to €2.816 billion, with admissions increasing 2% to 31.6 million visits. Slot machines continued to dominate, contributing about 82% of casino GGR, while traditional table games and poker/blackjack segments remained flat. Groups controlled approximately 93% of casino revenues. Future outlook Globally, France ranks seventh worldwide and third in Europe in terms of GGR, following Italy and the UK. Despite this progress, the ANJ has cautioned that more work is needed to cut problem gambling rates by 2027, according to a review by the regulator. It raised concerns that higher participation, especially online, could increase exposure to gambling-related harm. The French Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction estimated in 2024 that about 1.17 million people in France show problematic gambling behavior, with around 360,000 considered excessive players. The regulator stressed the necessity for operators to bolster player protection measures, including better tracking of risky behavior and more effective intervention tools. The regulator noted several key factors to monitor in 2026, such as the full-year impact of new fiscal policies and the effect of major sporting events, particularly the 2026 Fifa World Cup, on betting volumes. “2026 is set to be a pivotal year for the entire gambling market. Whether it involves consolidating acquisitions, rapidly reversing a growing decline, or facing heightened competition on the eve of the Fifa World Cup, all indicators are flashing red for the regulator,” remarked Isabelle Falque-Pierrotin, president of the ANJ. “In this tense climate, worsened by the appearance of new betting forms, it is crucial to continue the expected move towards a less intensive gambling model and to suggest changes to the current regulatory framework to lower the perceived risk of gambling.” Kathryn EvansKathryn reports on concise breaking news, primarily focusing on EMEA and US legislation. She is a proud North Walian, fluent Welsh speaker, and lifelong Wrexham FC fan – long before Hollywood arrived. 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) - Russian legislators are preparing to grant regulatory bodies and law enforcement authorities enhanced capabilities to expedite orders blocking illicit online casinos. During a session at the State Duma this week, legislators passed the initial reading of legislation aimed at reducing the timeframe needed to shut down gambling sites, according to a report by the Russian media agency URA News. Internet casino platforms operate illegally within Russia. Nevertheless, the Ministry of Finance intends to overturn this prohibition and begin imposing taxes on the operators. Currently, state authorities persist in their efforts to prohibit unauthorized websites. However, they have expressed frustration that bureaucratic hurdles regularly impede their progress. Existing procedures mandate that the Unified Gambling Regulator submit a notice to the Federal Tax Service. Subsequently, the tax authority conducts a series of verifications before consenting to include the online casino’s information on a register of prohibited websites. The proposed legislation seeks to simplify this procedure, cutting the approval time for blocking orders from approximately five days down to a mere 48 hours. “We aim to complete the draft legislation prior to the second reading,” Sergei Altukhov, Deputy Chair of the State Duma’s Economic Policy Committee, stated in an interview with Russia’s Parliamentary Gazette. The Russian State Duma building located in Moscow, Russia. (Image: Yuriy D. K. [CC BY 4.0]) Russian Legislators: The Moment to Accelerate Blocking Orders “We are collaborating with the Ministry of Finance and other departments on this matter,” Altukhov remarked. “We are investigating faster methods to assist in blocking online casinos. Typically, these websites are owned by operators based in nations that are hostile toward Russia.” Legal authorities indicate that the proposals represent a positive step forward, yet they require further refinement. “Considering the speed at which new gambling sites are emerging, drastically cutting the blocking time is crucial,” Russian attorney Stalina Gurevich commented to URA News. “Nevertheless, I am uncertain whether this will substantially decrease the number of users visiting online casinos, particularly the youth,” Gurevich noted. Younger Russians are highly proficient with technology, the lawyer clarified. Gurevich continued, “They frequently know how to reach blacklisted sites on the internet. These proposals must be enhanced.” Concurrently, the ministry’s initiative is encountering strong opposition from the Russian Orthodox Church, mental health specialists, and figures within the opposition. 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) - Japanese police have taken into custody a man recognized as a high-ranking member of a Yakuza gang linked to the Yamaguchi-gumi crime syndicate on allegations of illegal gambling. According to Japan’s Kobe Shimbun newspaper, the individual—who remains unnamed due to legal constraints—is a 62-year-old resident of Takarazuka, a city in Hyogo Prefecture. The Hyogo Prefectural Police Organized Crime Division and Amagasaki South Police Station stated that the defendant “ran an unlawful gambling ring allowing local residents to wager on the results of professional baseball games.” In Japan, most forms of sports betting are prohibited. Exceptions include bets placed at licensed horse and boat racing venues. Hyogo law enforcement officials noted they also apprehended a 31-year-old Amagasaki resident on related charges. This demolition worker has been charged by detectives with habitual gambling. The Yakuza member is accused of offering betting odds for 34 games, including Nippon Professional Baseball Organization and Major League Baseball regular-season matches. Authorities report the demolition worker placed a total of 114 bets, amounting to 1.14 million yen (approximately $7,160). Crackdown on Yakuza Gambling Activities The Yamaguchi-gumi-affiliated gang member is said to have fully confessed during police interrogation. The demolition worker, however, reportedly denied all charges against him. Yamaguchi-gumi is Japan’s largest Yakuza syndicate. Its roots are deeply tied to underground gambling, though in recent years it has expanded into legitimate businesses in construction and finance. Police, however, believe underground gambling rings remain a key income source for both Yamaguchi-gumi and its affiliate gangs. This Hyogo development comes just weeks after the Yonago branch of the Tottori District Public Prosecutor’s Office announced it would not indict a 55-year-old Yamaguchi-gumi-linked gang “senior executive” on gambling-related charges. Authorities had arrested the man on suspicion of organizing bets on last summer’s Koshien High School Baseball Tournament outcomes. Japanese baseball players competing at the Summer Koshien High School Baseball Tournament. (Image: Kentaro Iemoto [CC BY-SA 2.0]) But prosecution officials said the executive, along with six other men aged 24 to 44 arrested in February as part of the same probe, were released due to insufficient evidence. Earlier last month, Aichi Prefecture police launched another Yakuza-related gambling investigation. This probe involved Aichi officers raiding an office building they believe served as an operating hub for a slots center. The offices belong to Inagawa-kai, another major Yakuza syndicate with around 1,600 members operating in the Tokyo-Yokohama area. 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 Charlotte Hornets will face off against the Orlando Magic in the first of two scheduled NBA Play-In games this Friday. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET, with broadcast coverage available on Amazon Prime Video. The winning team will claim the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference, and will go up against the top-seeded Detroit Pistons in the opening round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs. DraftKings lists the Hornets as 3.5-point road favorites, with an over/under total set at 218.5. 83% of spread betting handle and 73% of all wager tickets have been placed on Charlotte. After Orlando secured a win over Charlotte earlier this season, the Hornets have picked up three straight wins in their most recent head-to-head matchups, all by 20-plus point margins. The Hornets boast far more offensive firepower, and the Magic are expected to struggle to keep pace with their output. Bonus bet picks: Hornets -3.5, UNDER 218.5 (odds current as of publication time at DraftKings Sportsbook) Top Player Prop Bets for the Hornets vs. Magic Matchup Now, let’s dive into our top player prop picks for the Hornets vs. Magic game, with all lines sourced from DraftKings Pick6. Charlotte’s Brandon Miller OVER 19.5 Points Scored If you caught Charlotte’s 127-126 overtime win over Miami on Tuesday, you saw Brandon Miller act as a consistent stabilizing force for the Hornets. Star guard LaMelo Ball and standout rookie Kon Knueppel combined to go just 2-of-22 from three-point range in that contest. Miller shot 50% from long distance, knocking down five of his 10 attempts, and ended the game with 23 total points. Miller also played a key role in Charlotte’s last two wins over Orlando, putting up 20 and 25 points in those two games respectively. Charlotte’s Moussa Diabate OVER 1.5 Assists Recorded Moussa Diabate has exceeded this mark in four of his last five games. The 6-foot-10 forward holds a season average of 1.9 assists per game. Hitting this over only requires a couple of made three-pointers off kick-out passes from Diabate when he is positioned in the paint. Orlando’s Franz Wagner UNDER 16.5 Points Scored Franz Wagner missed a large stretch of this season due to a high-ankle sprain. Still dealing with lingering effects of that injury, Wagner then sustained a knee injury in yesterday’s loss to the 76ers following a collision with teammate Wendell Carter Jr. Even though he logged 29 minutes of play against Philadelphia, Wagner finished the game with only 12 points. We expect he will not be at 100% health on Friday, so we are picking the UNDER for this point total. Charlotte’s Ryan Kalkbrenner OVER 3.5 Rebounds Recorded Charlotte center Ryan Kalkbrenner has been a very profitable pick for bettors taking the OVER on this prop recently. He has hit this over by recording 4 or more rebounds in six of his last seven contests. The Hornets rank third in the NBA with an average of 55.9 rebounds per game, and Kalkbrenner is a major contributor to that ranking. He is expected to surpass this modest total once again on Friday night. 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) - Ng Man Sun, a veteran of the Asian gaming industry, has returned to a leadership position at Century Entertainment International, which is listed on the Hong Kong stock exchange. In a filing made on Wednesday, the company revealed that he has been appointed as an executive director, chairman of the board, and chairman of the nomination committee, with immediate effect. Tang Ho Ka, whom Ng succeeds, will take on the roles of executive director and chief executive. Ng previously held these roles from September 2014 until May 2025. He resigned the previous year, stating “personal commitments” as the cause, though he offered no further explanation. Century referred to the 78-year-old as “a highly respected veteran of Macau’s gaming sector with over four decades of experience in VIP gaming, junket operations and casino investment management”. The company added that he was pivotal in the “evolution of Macau’s junket intermediary ecosystem during the industry’s liberalisation phase”. With a history linked to Stanley Ho, the godfather of Macau gaming, he holds “longstanding working relationships with key stakeholders in advancing high-roller gaming services and cross-border facilitation arrangements”. Century Entertainment “is principally engaged in investments in gaming and entertainment”, as stated on its website. The company currently manages VIP rooms in Dara Sakor, Cambodia, and intends to extend its operations to the Philippines and Vietnam. Century halted its trading last June after auditors issued a disclaimer of opinion on its financial statements. Marjorie PrestonMarjorie started her professional journey in gaming in 2007, turning her attention to Asian markets in 2020. In her personal time, she enjoys writing about travel and cinema, as well as drumming. 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) - Online bingo operator Tombola has announced the relaunch of its Arcade product, now featuring a range of games developed exclusively in-house and offering significantly increased prize ceilings. This strategic move by the Sunderland-based company aims to broaden its appeal beyond its traditional bingo player base and enhance its competitiveness within the UK's increasingly casino-oriented online gaming market. Established in 2006 and also headquartered in Sunderland, Tombola operates primarily in the UK and Ireland as part of the Flutter Entertainment group. Arcade 2.0 Launched on Tuesday, Arcade 2.0 is designed to merge Tombola's established community-focused bingo experience with innovative casino-style gameplay. A key highlight of the relaunch is the assurance that all new Arcade games are "exclusively built in-house and only available at Tombola." Furthermore, the maximum prize per game has been elevated from £2,000 to £10,000, a fivefold increase intended to attract players who are accustomed to the larger jackpots found on mainstream casino platforms. Marion Ryan, managing director at Tombola, characterized the relaunch as more than a simple product update. “This isn’t just a product refresh. It’s a strategic entry into a market where differentiation matters. We’re bringing 20 years of responsible gaming credentials, trusted brand heritage, and genuine innovation,” she stated. The relaunch is also supported by the "For Fun’s Sake" creative campaign. The updated Arcade portfolio has been rebuilt based on detailed player insights gathered from Tombola's engaged user base. The games incorporate mechanics and themes specifically tailored to resonate with existing players, while also integrating safety measures "built into every spin." The company also highlighted its "Flutter edge," underscoring the advantages of being part of Flutter Entertainment. Flutter acquired Tombola in 2022 for £402m. “Tombola is a business we have long admired for its product expertise, highly recreational customer base and focus on sustainable play,” commented Flutter’s chief executive Peter Jackson at the time of the acquisition announcement. In the previous year, Flutter integrated Tombola into its Sisal brand, subsequently making the product available across Italy. Kathryn EvansKathryn covers bitesize breaking news with a primary focus on EMEA and US legislation. A proud North Walian, fluent Welsh speaker and lifelong Wrexham FC fan – long before Hollywood came calling. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - According to the chairman of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp (PAGCOR), the conflict in the Middle East is noticeably affecting the gaming industry in the Philippines. “This is a difficult period for everyone,” Alejandro Tengco stated in a news release on Wednesday. “Gaming jurisdictions around the world are experiencing the effects of the oil crisis. Even more advanced nations such as Singapore, Macau, and the United States are not exempt. “We will adapt at PAGCOR,” the statement went on. “It is necessary to align with current times and guarantee that responsible gaming stays central to our operations.” Last month, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. proclaimed a state of energy emergency in response to the crisis. A memorandum dated March 24 from Malacañang cited “uncertainty in global energy markets, severe disruptions in supply chains, and significant volatility and upward pressure on international oil prices” as dangers to the nation's energy security. This proclamation may stay in place for a year or more. Short-term relief for online gaming operators On March 30, providing a lifeline to Philippine online gaming operators, PAGCOR postponed the newly required minimum guaranteed fees (MGFs) from April 1 to June 1. Under the new fee framework, all licensed Philippine gaming system administrators (GSAs) providing e-games must pay MGFs of PHP9 million (US$149,400), calculated on an assumed gross gaming revenue of PHP30 million. For GSAs not offering e-games, the monthly rate was set at PHP4 million, based on a GGR of PHP15 million. Originally, these rates were scheduled to rise to PHP10.5 million and PHP4 million, respectively, starting in October. This schedule has been altered, with the second installment now commencing in December. In a related development, Tengco mentioned that he is still awaiting approval from the Governance Commission for the sale and privatization of commercial casinos currently managed by PAGCOR. Upon his initial appointment in 2022, Tengco concurred that PAGCOR needs to cease its dual function as both regulator and operator, a situation many legislators have labeled a clear conflict of interest. During last year's Asian Gaming Summit, he emphasized that “in layman’s terms, a referee cannot be a player on the same field”. However, PAGCOR continues to operate over 40 casinos under the Casino Filipino brand. “There are many calls for decoupling, and we are waiting for the decision,” Tengco remarked on Wednesday. “Securing approval to privatize would be a game-changer.” Conflict described as an ‘economic fault line’ for the Philippines Meanwhile, Alicor Panao from the University of the Philippines has characterized the Middle East conflict as a “direct economic fault line” for Filipino citizens. Speaking speaking to the Philippine Inquirer, Panao described the situation as “a high-stakes economic event … where foreign policy shocks translate into household vulnerability and macroeconomic uncertainty.” Industries related to gaming, such as tourism, are also facing pressure. As reported by the Manila Bulletin, Alfred Lay of Leechiu Property Consultants has drawn parallels between the current crisis and the Covid-19 pandemic regarding its impact on travel. “Hotels in the Philippines are facing their toughest stretch since the pandemic,” Lay stated. “A sharp decline in occupancy is anticipated for April and May as the fuel crisis pushes up airfares, undermines traveler confidence, and strains household budgets”. He further noted, “With international arrivals at risk and domestic spending weakening, the sector is preparing for a challenging second half of the year. Furthermore, the long-term outlook relies entirely on the speed at which the Hormuz crisis is resolved.” Marjorie PrestonMarjorie started her career in the gaming industry in 2007 and has concentrated on Asian gaming markets since 2020. Beyond her professional life, she writes about travel and cinema 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) - According to Japanese media outlets, operators of online casinos temporarily took control of the website belonging to Japanese electronics retailer Ibiden earlier this week. Headquartered in Ogaki, Gifu Prefecture, Ibiden deals in both electronics and ceramic products. Japanese broadcaster Tokai TV reported that for several hours on the evening of April 13, the company’s website “showed pages that appeared to belong to an online casino operated outside of Japan.” Ibiden representatives did not offer comment on the specific nature of the online casino-related content that was displayed. However, the company confirmed it had encountered an “outage” in an official statement posted to its website on April 14. It added: “We offer our sincere apologies for the significant concern we have caused to our customers and all involved parties.” The company noted that its website server “received unauthorized access from an external third party.” Ibiden is also reportedly looking into filing an official report with police. Multiple functions on the website remained inaccessible as of April 15. Ibiden’s stock performance on the Tokyo Stock Exchange over the previous five days (Image: Google Finance) Online Casino Incident: Japanese Electronics Retailer Experiences ‘Outage’ “Our investigation and recovery efforts are still ongoing, as we work to determine the source of the unauthorized access,” the firm shared in its statement. “Work is continuing to identify the root cause of the outage, enhance our security measures, and roll out permanent solutions for this issue.” Ibiden stated that no personal user information was compromised during the purported hack, though it admitted its website had briefly “displayed harmful web pages.” “Still, given the potential risks associated with this unauthorized access, we urge our customers to confirm that the security systems on their personal devices are updated to the latest version,” Ibiden noted. “We will share further updates once our maintenance work is finished, and will immediately disclose any information that requires public release in the near future,” the company added. This alleged online casino takeover follows a series of similar incidents where online casino operators seized control of multiple anime-related websites. All these anime website takeovers follow the same common pattern: online casino promoters wait until the domain registrations for older anime title websites expire. They then purchase these lapsed domains and copy content from the original website. Alongside the seemingly harmless anime content, they also insert links directing users to online casinos. Online casino promoters have also carried out these types of attacks outside of Japan. Earlier this year, a fake online casino pretending to be a licensed Russian bookmaker took over the former official website of the city of Yakutsk. Another incident this year saw online casino operators seize control of the old website belonging to Kyrgyzstan’s state-owned trading company. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - Now that all 16 playoff teams have been determined, it’s time to analyze NHL futures odds for the winner of the 2026 Stanley Cup. The Colorado Avalanche are the consensus betting favorite across sportsbooks. The Avs, who face the Kraken tonight in their regular-season finale, claimed the Presidents Cup Trophy as the regular-season champion. Stanley Cup Futures Odds at FanDuel The NHL Playoffs kick off on Saturday, so let’s take a look at Stanley Cup futures odds at FanDuel: Colorado Avalanche +310 Tampa Bay Lightning +360 Carolina Hurricanes +500 Dallas Stars +1100 Vegas Golden Knights +1200 Edmonton Oilers +1500 Ottawa Senators +1600 Minnesota Wild +1700 Buffalo Sabres +1800 Utah Mammoth +3500 Montreal Canadiens +3500 Pittsburgh Penguins +4000 Anaheim Ducks +6000 Los Angeles Kings +6000 Philadelphia Flyers +6000 Boston Bruins +7500 The Florida Panthers, winners of the past two Stanley Cups, failed to qualify for the playoffs this year. Leading Stanley Cup Contenders Can Colorado repeat its regular-season dominance in the postseason? The Lightning are a dangerous force with the best goaltender among all playoff teams. Will Carolina finally break through now that Florida isn’t in their way? Avalanche +310 The Avalanche are heading into the playoffs on a strong note, going 4-1 in their last five games before tonight’s regular-season finale against the Kraken. Nathan MacKinnon leads the NHL with 53 goals this season. Defenseman Cale Makar returned from an upper-body injury on Tuesday and recorded three assists in a 3-1 win over Calgary. Regardless of who wins the Stars vs. Wild matchup, the Avs will face a tough second-round opponent. The only major question for Colorado revolves around the lack of playoff experience for both of their goalies. Scott Wedgewood (30-6-6) leads the NHL with a 2.07 goals-against average but has never started an NHL playoff game. His teammate Mackenzie Blackwood (23-10-2) has just seven playoff starts, all from last year’s opening-round loss to Dallas. Tampa Bay Lightning (+360) The Lightning (50-26-6) notched their fifth 50-win season in franchise history. Nikita Kucherov is one of the top betting favorites to win the Hart Trophy as the regular-season MVP. He has tallied 130 points this season—only Connor McDavid had more, with 134. Former Hurricane Jake Guentzel brings plenty of playoff experience from his time with Carolina and Pittsburgh, where he helped the Penguins win the Cup in 2017. He and Kucherov form a potent 1-2 punch; Guentzel finished second on the team in goals (38), assists (50), and points (88). Lightning standout Andrei Vasilevskiy ranks second among all NHL goalies with a 2.33 goals-against average. The “Big Cat” has a 39-15-4 record this season. The veteran netminder helped Tampa Bay win two consecutive Cups in 2021 and 2022, and he still has the skill to lead the Lightning to another championship. Hurricanes (+500) Head coach Rod Brind’Amour has guided the Hurricanes to the playoffs for the eighth straight season. Carolina (53-22-7) secured the top seed in the Eastern Conference with 113 points and will face Ottawa in the opening round. The Hurricanes won two of three games against the Senators during the regular season. Sebastian Aho, Seth Jarvis, and Andrei Svechnikov are back to help the Hurricanes compete for their second franchise Cup. Carolina has a balanced offense with seven players scoring 20+ goals. The Hurricanes lost Martin Necas to Colorado but filled that gap with Nikolaj Ehlers, who finished the season with 26 goals and 71 points. The biggest question for Carolina is in goal: rookie Brandon Bussi (31-6-2) will make his playoff debut. Backup Frederik Anderson (16-14-5) has postseason experience but struggled this season with a 3.05 goals-against average. 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) - Following a Q1 trading update that showed 3% growth in net gaming revenue (NGR), Entain has confirmed its FY2026 guidance for online NGR growth of 5%-7%. For the quarter ending March 31, 2026, group NGR increased “in line with expectations,” driven by an 8% rise in volume. Online NGR increased by 5%, bolstered by a strong 9% rise in iGaming, which countered a 1% drop in the sports division caused by lower sports margins. The UK and Ireland online sector performed exceptionally well with a 13% increase, matching the 13% growth seen in Australia. Entain stated that performance in these regions exceeded expectations. Online volume also saw a 10% year-on-year increase, indicating growth throughout Entain’s key markets. Consequently, Entain maintained its FY26 forecast for online NGR growth between 5% and 7% on a constant currency basis. The company also stated it is “comfortable” with consensus estimates for a FY26 group EBITDA of £1.13 billion (excluding BetMGM parent fees) and an annual adjusted cash flow of no less than £500 million by 2028. CEO Stella David remarked that Entain’s robust start to the year mirrors the company’s confidence in its business-strengthening strategy. “We carried strong momentum into 2026 that persisted through Q1, with significant volume growth across our diversified portfolio,” David stated. “This serves as further proof of our continued strategic execution and operational strengthening, while also underscoring the growth inherent in our globally scaled business. “Our resilient and strong business has begun the year on a high note, and we are building upon this momentum. Through our sharpened focus and optimization efforts, we are more convinced than ever in our ability to deliver sustainable growth and enhance cash generation. “Entain is well-placed to succeed as a long-term industry leader, capitalizing on the numerous opportunities ahead, and I have full confidence in our future.” Breakdown of regional performance Entain’s NGR in the UK and Ireland rose by 6% across both online and retail channels. A 13% surge in online revenue, attributed to “ongoing market share gains,” helped balance a 1% dip in retail performance. The operator revealed plans to shutter 39 Ladbrokes locations in Ireland this April, accounting for more than one-third of its shops in the nation. Despite the general downturn in retail, Entain claimed it continues to surpass the UK&I market, citing growth in both gaming (+2%) and volumes (+4%). In the International segment, NGR climbed 1%, with the online division (+2%) once again outperforming retail (-4%). While volume grew by 9%, this was constrained by favorable sports outcomes for customers, particularly in Italy and Brazil. Future growth in this segment could receive a boost, as the company stated in its FY26 results that it aims to obtain three of the 15 iGaming licenses available in New Zealand upon the market's opening in 2027. However, unlike the UK&I and International divisions, Entain’s CEE operations reported a decline, with NGR falling by 6%. Online revenue in CEE decreased marginally by 1%, but the most significant change was a 30% year-on-year drop in the retail sector. BetMGM sees Q1 revenue increase BetMGM, the joint venture between Entain and MGM Resorts International, recorded a 6% increase in net revenue to $696 million in Q1. BetMGM’s iGaming revenue grew 9%, while online sports betting revenue rose by 4%. Adjusted EBITDA for BetMGM in Q1 was $25 million, prompting the joint venture to revise its FY2026 guidance based on performance to date. The joint venture now anticipates FY26 revenue to fall between $2.9 billion and $3.1 billion, with adjusted EBITDA hitting the lower end of its previous $300-$350 million guidance. Kyle GoldsmithKyle has been with Clarion since December 2023, joining from the world of sports journalism, subsequently becoming a LatAm-facing senior reporter with iGB. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - A court in Brazil's Pernambuco state has issued a preliminary injunction ordering Betnacional to stop using the name “Aviator” following a legal challenge from game developer Spribe OÜ. On Wednesday, the Court of Justice of Pernambuco (TJPE) ruled in favor of Spribe in a lawsuit filed against Flutter-owned NSX Brasil S.A., the company operating Betnacional. The court mandated that NSX immediately cease using the Aviator trademark, including any "identical or confusingly similar signs," and stop reproducing any visual, graphical, or audiovisual elements associated with Spribe's product. This injunction includes daily fines for non-compliance and will remain in effect until an appeal is decided. Basis for the dispute Spribe's claim is based on its registered trademark for “Aviator,” its highly successful crash game available in numerous global markets. In Brazil, the game is trademarked with the National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI). The court's decision upheld the developer's ownership claim of the trademark. The dispute arose over a similar crash-style game offered on Betnacional's platform under the name “Aviator,” attributed to NSX by a provider identified as “Aviator Studio.” Spribe alleged that this constituted an unauthorized duplication of its own game, which it developed in late 2018. Significantly, Spribe asserted that Betnacional had been an authorized licensee of Aviator since 2022, and the disputed offering diverged from that licensing agreement. In a statement regarding the ruling, Spribe commented: “This interim decision in Brazil represents a significant step in SPRIBE’s global strategy to protect its intellectual property. The company is actively monitoring markets worldwide and will continue to enforce its trademark and copyright protections in all jurisdictions. “SPRIBE remains dedicated to pursuing all necessary legal actions against infringers to preserve the integrity of the original ‘AVIATOR’ experience and ensure a fair and transparent environment for its global player base.” Ongoing Aviator legal cases elsewhere This case is part of Spribe's broader international efforts to protect its Aviator intellectual property. The developer recently obtained a similar injunction in UK courts against parties accused of infringing the Aviator brand. This ongoing case prevented rival studio Aviator LLC from launching a competing crash game in the UK market. Spribe founder David Natroshvili stated that the interim injunction indicated the UK court supported the supplier's position. “Spribe created the Aviator crash game in 2018 and is the sole owner of the game globally,” Natroshvili said when the injunction was granted in August of last year. “We will continue to take all necessary steps globally to protect Spribe, our partners, and players from any third parties seeking to undermine or infringe our rights.” The dispute between Spribe and Aviator originated in Aviator's home country of Georgia in 2024. It began with Aviator LLC accusing Spribe of infringing its Aviator imagery's copyright and trademark. The case generated considerable uncertainty, with both Flutter and Spribe facing potential liability of €330 million for using the Aviator image and name. However, in January 2025, Aviator LLC withdrew its claim against Flutter. Aviator's legal counsel at the time informed IGB that Flutter and its subsidiaries had acknowledged Aviator LLC's rights to the Aviator trademark and airplane imagery, leading both parties to drop all litigation against each other. Kathryn EvansKathryn covers bitesize breaking news with a primary focus on EMEA and US legislation. A proud North Walian, fluent Welsh speaker and lifelong Wrexham FC fan – long before Hollywood came calling. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The Orlando Magic will face off against the Philadelphia 76ers in an NBA Play-In Game this evening. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET on Amazon Prime Video. The victor of tonight’s matchup will secure the Eastern Conference’s No. 7 seed. The losing team will take on the Charlotte Hornets for the No. 8 seed on Friday. DraftKings Sportsbook has listed the 76ers as 1.5-point favorites, with a combined total score set at 224.5. Fifty-eight percent of the spread wagers and ticketed bets are backing Philadelphia. Now, let’s dive into our top player prop bets for the Magic vs. 76ers, using odds from DraftKings Pick6. Top Player Props for Magic vs. 76ers Orlando’s Paolo Banchero OVER 13.5 Assists & Rebounds Paolo Banchero is a dominant rebounder for the Magic, averaging 8.4 rebounds per game. That places him 17th across the NBA. The former Duke standout is also a reliable playmaker for a frontcourt player, averaging 5.2 assists per game. Here’s how Banchero performed in his past three matchups: 10 rebounds and 11 assists (for 21 total points) against the Celtics 9 rebounds and 7 assists (16 total points) against the Bulls 8 rebounds and 6 assists (14 total points) against the Timberwolves In their most recent matchup against the 76ers, Banchero grabbed 11 rebounds and dished out seven assists, handily beating this prop total. Philadelphia’s Paul George OVER 2.5 3-Pointers Made Joel Embiid is unavailable for the 76ers following last week’s appendectomy. Tyrese Maxey (28.3 ppg) and Embiid (26.9 ppg) lead Philadelphia in scoring, but Paul George (17.3 ppg) will need to elevate his play in the star big man’s absence. George scores most of his points from beyond the arc. His team-leading 39.2% shooting from three-point range bears that out. George averages 2.7 three-pointers per game, but that average jumped to 3.4 across the 10 games he has played since returning from a suspension related to taking improper medication. George has hit more than this number of three-pointers in seven straight games following his return, and he has cleared this prop mark in eight of his past 10 outings. Philadelphia’s Tyrese Maxey UNDER 30.5 Points Going up against one of the NBA’s most explosive scorers can feel intimidating, but Maxey’s recent performance trends make this bet a logical choice. Tyrese Maxey has finished below this point total in eight of his past 10 matchups. With Embiid sidelined, the burden of scoring will fall squarely on Maxey’s shoulders, and Orlando’s defensive game plan will focus on limiting him as the team’s primary scoring threat. Maxey, who averages 28.3 ppg, posted 29 points in their most recent game against the Magic. We advise backing the UNDER here, but our official wager has already been placed at DraftKings Pick6: Paolo Banchero OVER 13.5 combined assists and rebounds Paul George OVER 2.5 three-pointers made Wager: $50 to win $156 (with a 30% NBA Winnings Boost) Wishing you the best of luck with all of your wagers this evening! 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) - Social media companies should be responsible for covering the costs of treating Indonesian citizens for gambling addiction, according to lawmakers. These calls originate from the policy-making People’s Representative Council, as reported by the Indonesian media outlet Inibalikpapan, following a series of disturbing, high-profile crimes linked to gambling. Lawmakers stated that online gambling addiction is leading to terrible tragedies and urged social media platforms to demonstrate accountability by contributing to the funding of rehabilitation centers. Council member Abdullah, also known as Gus Abduh, who serves on the commission and represents Central Java’s sixth electoral district, asserted that social media platforms are "profiting from [gambling-related] web traffic." Abduh stated, "[Social media operators] must not be allowed to benefit from traffic, either directly or indirectly. They must contribute to the funding of rehabilitation centers for [...] addicts." Social Media Firms: Gambling Addiction Accountability Needed In recent weeks, Indonesian newspapers have been extensively covering online gambling-related crime. Authorities in Makassar reported that a man attacked his wife and cousin with a machete when they attempted to prevent him from gambling online. In Lahat, police have charged a suspect with the murder of their mother after she discovered them stealing gold to fund their online gambling activities. Meanwhile, the head of a local government body in Medan Maimun is accused of embezzling up to IDR 1.2 billion ($70,000) in public funds to support their gambling habits. Abduh characterized the issue as having escalated beyond a mere "legal" concern to become a "national social and economic crisis." The lawmaker recommended that the government draw inspiration from countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom. He noted that both the US and UK have "integrated a rehabilitative approach." The lawmaker explained that instead of "simply blocking online casino sites," Jakarta would benefit from adopting a similar strategy. "We need regulations that require social media operations to help create a national rehabilitation system for online gambling addicts," he proposed. Despite a police investigation that has resulted in the jailing of many young female Instagram influencers, social media personalities continue to promote online casinos on their platforms. Lawmakers in the Indonesian House of Representatives (Image: Andylala Waluyo/VOA) Limited Resources Available Abduh pointed out that the "massive amount of funds circulating" within the online casino sector is disproportionate to the number of available rehabilitation facilities. He stated that the state currently offers only "limited rehabilitation services" for individuals struggling with online gambling addiction. "The state must intervene," the lawmaker concluded. "Online gambling addiction is a behavioral disorder that robs people of self-control. If they are not rehabilitated, we will see more criminals emerge." According to data from the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Center, Indonesians deposit as much as $58.39 million annually on online gambling sites. This occurs despite a comprehensive crackdown that has led to the blocking of tens of thousands of citizens' bank accounts. The center, which is Indonesia’s leading anti-money laundering agency, reports that all of these accounts belong to individuals who have placed bets on online casino sites. Civil law courts across the country also indicate that online gambling addiction is becoming a primary reason for divorce. Many of the nation's leading psychiatric hospitals have reported a significant increase in both inpatient and outpatient cases of gambling addiction. 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) - Nine South Korean government employees face accusations of promoting a high-profile scam centered on an illegal sports betting platform that promised gamblers “guaranteed profits.” Law enforcement officials have launched an investigation following a Chuncheon City Hall audit that uncovered evidence the government employees helped defraud hundreds of South Koreans out of a combined total of more than $18.2 million, per South Korean media outlet G1 News. The group is alleged to have promoted a platform called GM Ball, which claimed to provide bettors with reverse betting options. In sports betting, a reverse bet — sometimes referred to as an action reverse — is a wager that connects two or more separate bets. Placing these bets lets bettors essentially wager on both sides of a team sports contest, so long as they put up twice the standard stake. A betting page from the now-shuttered GM Ball website. (Image: G1 News/Screenshot) South Korean Government Employees Recruited Scam Site Victims Law enforcement has been investigating the platform’s suspected operator for multiple weeks and has since taken the site offline. Investigators noted that the operators “inflated their membership counts” by “promising high returns.” They told gamblers they could earn additional income by referring new users to the platform. According to law enforcement, the site was actually a Ponzi-style scam. A police spokesperson confirmed that more than 800 victims have been identified across the country. Four of the site’s alleged ringleaders fled to Thailand, but police later repatriated all of the suspects back to South Korea. Chuncheon City Hall (Image: G1 News/Screenshot) Chuncheon is the most populous city in South Korea’s Gangwon Province. Auditors reported that several victims have been identified in Gangwon, adding that their probe “confirmed that Chuncheon City officials also used the platform to place wagers.” Auditors stated that all nine city employees used the platform, with an unspecified number of the accused also “serving as local recruiters.” These employees “signed up citizens and fellow government workers,” with some being given high-end smartwatches as an incentive. At least one of the civil servants placed bets totaling nearly $6,800 on GM Ball. One of the accused individuals told investigators, “The operators threatened to freeze our funds, so we began recruiting people we knew.” Law Enforcement Investigation Remains Ongoing Chuncheon City Hall has imposed disciplinary measures against its government employees. Three have received salary reductions, five have been officially reprimanded, and a single employee has been given a formal written warning. This situation may not be fully resolved, however, as law enforcement is pursuing a separate ongoing investigation. The vast majority of online sports betting activities are illegal in South Korea, with the only exceptions being state-run horse racing platforms and Sports Toto. The latter service provides sports pool-style betting, with a daily limit of 100,000 won (roughly $70). Over the past several months, South Korean media outlets have shared reports that dozens of teenagers are using stolen identification cards to place bets on Sports Toto. Many of these teens report that they have developed a “dependency” on sports betting. 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.