Category: iGame

(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) - 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.

(AsiaGameHub) - On Monday, authorities in Taiwan indicted 20 individuals for their roles in a money laundering operation that allegedly utilized Macau-based casinos to clean over TWD33 billion ($1.03 billion) in illicit funds. Law enforcement described the case as the country's "first cross-border casino money laundering case." The scheme allegedly involved depositing illegal gambling profits into the credit accounts of specific card runners, who then traveled to Macau to use high-limit cards for purchasing casino chips. These runners reportedly did little to no gambling. Instead, they either cashed out the chips for Hong Kong dollars—the primary currency in Macau's casinos—or handed them off to accomplices within the gaming center. Suspects connected to Asian iGaming firm According to the Yunlin District Prosecutor’s Office, the probe was initiated last November following a tip to the Criminal Investigation Bureau (CIB) about a criminal organization recruiting money mules. Raids conducted in Taichung, Taipei, and New Taipei City resulted in the arrest of 20 suspects and 10 reported indictments. Charges have been filed under the Money Laundering Prevention Act. Local news reports have tied the syndicate to Jinzhou Entertainment City, an iGaming operator that targets players in Taiwan, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Online betting is prohibited in Taiwan and Cambodia and faces strict regulations in Vietnam. Alleged leaders, identified as Chen and Lin, are currently at large with 20-year arrest warrants issued. In 2024, International Community Radio Taipei reported that Jinzhou principals and associates were charged in a similar matter. The Taichung Prosecutor’s Office previously identified Lin as a "former high-ranking police officer" who allegedly used his role as a captain in the Taichung Criminal Investigation Corps to oversee a money laundering ring that netted approximately $1.4 million between 2021 and 2024. CIB: Police committed to ongoing money laundering fight In a statement regarding the case, the Taiwan Criminal Investigation Bureau said, “The police will continue to dismantle money laundering networks, enhance their technological investigative tools, and work with international judicial bodies to protect public assets and ensure a safe environment.” Marjorie PrestonMarjorie started her career in the gaming industry in 2007 and has concentrated on Asian markets since 2020. Outside of her professional life, she writes about travel and cinema and is a drummer. 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) - Idaho has joined a 39-state coalition in a legal challenge against what the states claim is an effort by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to expand its regulatory authority, Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador announced Monday. The coalition is asking federal courts to reject the CFTC’s claim that it has exclusive jurisdiction over specific sports betting activities—a move the states say would strip them of their longstanding power to regulate or ban sports gambling within their borders. This legal action comes amid broader uncertainty about the agency’s evolving stance on prediction markets and event contracts, particularly following recent internal changes and policy debates at the regulator. ‘Idaho will continue defending our right to regulate gambling’ In a statement, Labrador said, “Under the CFTC’s reasoning, states like Idaho that opt to ban sports betting would be unable to enforce those bans.” “An unelected federal agency says it found hidden authority in 15-year-old financial reform laws to override state gambling laws across the country,” he added. “Congress never granted that power, and Idaho will keep fighting to protect our right to regulate gambling as we see fit.” The legal dispute escalated to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals after Nevada sued Kalshi and similar platforms to enforce its state gambling laws. The CFTC filed a brief supporting the platforms, arguing for federal preemption. In response, Idaho and 38 other states submitted an amicus curiae brief backing Nevada. The coalition stresses that if the CFTC’s position is upheld, states—including Idaho—would be barred from enforcing sports betting prohibitions or regulations. Dispute over regulatory authority The controversy centers on a new generation of online platforms—including Kalshi and Crypto.com—that have begun offering wagers on sports outcomes through federally regulated exchanges. These platforms have promoted their products as financial derivatives rather than conventional sports bets. Kalshi reported that customers traded more than $1 billion worth of contracts tied to the February 2026 Super Bowl. Historically, the CFTC had refrained from endorsing these contracts. In September 2025, the agency issued an advisory clarifying it had not approved such contracts and acknowledged state laws could block them. However, following a change in CFTC leadership, the commission reversed its stance and, in ongoing litigation, argued that these contracts qualify as “swaps”—a category of financial instruments subject to exclusive federal regulation. The four key arguments The coalition’s brief outlines four key arguments: limits on federal agency jurisdiction, the need for clear congressional authorization, preservation of state powers, and the CFTC’s lack of expertise. Federal agencies cannot unilaterally expand their jurisdiction—especially in domains like gambling that states have traditionally regulated. Supreme Court precedents require explicit congressional approval for agencies to impose broad rules affecting matters of substantial national importance. The coalition asserts Congress did not expressly empower the CFTC to regulate sports betting when it authorized oversight of derivatives markets after the financial crisis. Transfers of traditional state functions to federal control must be explicit. Gambling regulation has long been a core state responsibility. Unlike states—which have established licensing regimes, age-verification systems, responsible gaming policies, and integrity monitoring—the CFTC lacks both gambling-specific expertise and statutory mandates in this sphere. The Ninth Circuit is presently considering consolidated appeals concerning whether state gambling enforcement applies to platforms offering event contracts and prediction markets through federally regulated exchanges. The 39-state coalition urges the court to confirm that states retain the authority to regulate or prohibit betting activities regardless of how platforms characterize their products. 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 Philippine National Police (PNP) has intensified its crackdown on cybercrime activities occurring on online gaming platforms, including the popular children's video game Roblox. This action follows concerns raised by prosecutors regarding elements within Roblox that bear resemblance to gambling, potentially exposing children to exploitation. The directive specifically targets issues of child exploitation and illegal gambling. Cybercrime crack down In an official statement issued on Sunday, PNP Chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. instructed the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) to bolster its efforts in combating illegal conduct facilitated through online gaming applications. The gaming platform Roblox was specifically named in connection with reports alleging its misuse for purposes such as "sexual predation, grooming and exploitation of minors." Chief General Nartatez stated: "Our mandate of serving and protecting the people now encompasses cyberspace to keep them safe, especially for children. This is what modern policing also means, and your PNP has been keeping up." The PNP has confirmed its ongoing collaboration with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and the Cybercrime Investigation and Coordinating Center (CICC) to investigate these allegations. Officials have clarified that the enforcement efforts are not limited to Roblox, indicating that other online gaming and social media applications are also under close observation. ‘Child gambling’ Roblox boasts over 111 million daily users, with approximately 40% being under the age of 13. Its systems involving randomized rewards and purchasable virtual items have attracted scrutiny from both regulators and academics. Research conducted by the University of Sydney, along with interviews with children and parents, has revealed that young users often struggle to comprehend in-game currency and random-reward mechanics. Some parents have described these features as 'child gambling,' and have characterized transactions as 'scams' and 'cash grabs.' This intensified focus on enforcement also reflects a broader international trend in regulation. In Greece, authorities have recently taken steps to enhance protections for young people amidst growing concerns about harms associated with online betting, including measures to limit exposure to digital gambling content and strengthen oversight of online 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) - Simon Priglinger-Simader, vice president of Germany's Deutscher Online Casinoverband (DOCV) trade association, has rejected the GGL's new 2025 channelisation statistics, labelling them as 'conservative' and incorrect. The GGL released a report exceeding 120 pages last week, estimating Germany's channelisation rate reached 77% in 2025. While the regulator evaluated different methods in the report, it ultimately conducted a survey of 2,000 people who had participated in online gambling (lotteries excluded) in the past year. Survey participants were questioned on whether they had used illegal operators during that time. Following his review, Priglinger-Simader stated the report was clearly flawed by "non-representative sampling," indicating the sample did not properly reflect those gambling on the black market. "Furthermore, there's a degree of recall bias when you ask someone if they are engaging in illegal gambling. Most likely, they will say no," Priglinger-Simader told iGB. He added, "The figures are not in line with the tax revenue numbers we are aware of." DOCV-commissioned 2023 report still more accurate on black market size In November 2023, the trade association published its own black market analysis, which found that as many as half of all players in Germany were using illegal sites. Priglinger-Simader asserts this assessment is more precise than the GGL's most recent report. "We still believe that, considering all the work done, a result showing a black market size of around 50% is much nearer to the real scale of the black market," he continued. The study was written by economist Gunther Schnabl from the University of Leipzig and utilised Nielsen gambling activity data to evaluate Germany's channelisation rate. This was merged with data on stakes placed on illegal sites, which Priglinger-Simader believes is probably significantly higher than current estimates indicate. Although the GGL's report stated black market Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) was €547 million in 2024, the trade body head calls this number "too conservative." "We believe the real turnover of illegal operators is far greater due to the abundance of bonuses, absence of player safeguards, no loss limits, no spin limits—essentially no regulations in the black market," he cautions. He also points out that licensed German operators have received feedback from customers stating they have switched to the black market to escape the strict controls and limitations imposed by the regulated market. "However, this information isn't robust enough for a case study to incorporate it [into the next analysis]," says Priglinger-Simader. Updated Schnable channelisation report expected soon A revised report from Schnabl is anticipated this summer, analysing 2025 data. "[They] are presently analysing 2025 figures using the Nielsen data panel from before and will produce an updated brief evaluation or perhaps a second edition of the study, possibly in June or July, around the summer," Priglinger-Simader added. Speaking on the report's methodology, he said, "They will use a refreshed list of illegal websites targeting Germany. Then it's essentially an update incorporating new illegal operators that have entered, along with the overall market evolution. For 2025, they have already compiled an updated list of illegal operators, as that landscape is very fluid and has changed over the past two or three years." Despite dismissing the GGL's latest figures, Priglinger-Simader concedes that the regulator's lowered channelisation estimate is a good indication it is beginning to comprehend the market better. Channelisation rate could be used to prevent Interstate Treaty review updates Back in June 2024, the regulator indicated the black market constituted only about 4% of the total sector. Priglinger-Simader is concerned, however, that this new data might be leveraged to the regulator's advantage during the current review of the German Interstate Treaty regulations. This review represents the licensed industry's sole opportunity for easing player restrictions such as compulsory deposit limits and slot stake limits. He cautions that the GGL could "use [the data] to claim everything is functioning perfectly, that no action is needed to bolster the legal [framework], and that licensed operators should simply carry on as before." The review is scheduled to finish next year. 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 recent online study of 525 Victorian women aged 18 to 40 has uncovered worrying trends in how modern gambling marketing in Australia is altering female attitudes towards betting. The research underscored how current promotional and public relations efforts have increased women's involvement in gambling while minimising its associated dangers. This qualitative online survey took place in Victoria, Australia, from 14 June to 1 July 2024. The participants, mostly residents of metropolitan Melbourne (76%) with an average age of 31, reported high recent gambling engagement, with 79% having placed a bet in the previous year. ‘It makes an addictive activity appear harmless’ Answers to open-ended questions revealed three main themes: gambling had been normalised; participation was strongly promoted; and players perceived less risk. Many women stated that modern marketing tactics have helped make gambling seem "normal" and socially acceptable for females. This is especially the case for campaigns using female celebrities or influencers, new betting options linked to entertainment, and sponsorships in women's sports. The survey reported that "Social media influencers were described as ‘relatable’ and ‘desirable’, and their involvement in gambling promotions was seen to make gambling seem glamorous and aspirational". Participants worried that framing bets as "fun", low-stakes, or tied to charity often concealed potential harms. Portraying gambling as "harmless" risked encouraging progression towards riskier behaviours and eventual financial loss. "I think there is a lot of harm in promoting gambling in this way for anyone," said one respondent. "It makes an addictive activity appear harmless." "They make it seem harmless and can become a light joke," said another participant. A large number of respondents felt gambling promotions appeared crafted to draw in new customers. This targeting was seen as particularly effective for younger women, by connecting betting products to their social lives and interests. Words like "encourage", "attract", and "tempt" were commonly used to describe this impact. Furthermore, by linking products to their hobbies, some women said it caused gambling to "feel normal". Some even suggested this normalisation could generate a "fear of missing out". ‘Pink-washing’ has its impact The study, conducted by researchers from Deakin University and Curtin University, pointed to player scepticism about gambling firms' use of gender-focused corporate social responsibility (CSR) campaigns. For instance, promotional ties to International Women’s Day or breast cancer awareness month were frequently viewed as strategic image management rather than authentic social contribution. Even while recognising these tactics as reputation-building, some women admitted they could unintentionally build trust in gambling brands, potentially making them more susceptible to marketing. A present-day study When designing the survey, the academics concentrated on the growing influence of social media marketing on platforms favoured by younger women, such as Instagram and TikTok. Australian data cited in the study indicated that annual gambling participation rates for women in Victoria are similar to men's, with around 50% gambling yearly and about a third doing so monthly. The authors noted similarities with sectors like alcohol and tobacco, where CSR and sponsorship have historically been used to burnish brand image and stall regulatory action. These worries reflect wider international trends. In Greece, authorities have recently acted to bolster protections for younger people against growing online betting harms, with a specific emphasis on curbing exposure to digital ads and promotional material. Likewise, recent German research connected a rise in gambling advertising to heightened risks for vulnerable players. The findings indicated that extensive promotional content helped normalise betting behaviour and deepen the involvement of at-risk individuals. What comes next? The researchers called for stronger regulatory steps, suggesting that limits should go beyond obvious gambling ads to include more subtle marketing forms. These encompassed influencer collaborations, novelty markets connected to popular culture, and CSR activities that act as indirect advertising. They also urged targeted public awareness initiatives to help women assess gambling promotions more critically and gain a clearer understanding of the related risks. 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) - Daniele Cardoso has been named the new permanent head of Brazil's betting regulator, the Secretariat of Prizes and Bets (SPA), this week, following two months in an interim role. Cardoso's permanent appointment was revealed in a Monday post on X by Dario Durigan, who took over as Brazil's finance minister from Fernando Haddad last week. Cardoso joined the SPA in November 2024, initially serving as general coordinator for responsible gambling monitoring, before being appointed deputy secretary. Later, in late January, following Regis Dudena's departure, Cardoso was named interim head of the SPA. Dudena, who had led the SPA since February 2024, vacated the role to assume leadership of the Secretariat of Economic Reforms. Similar to Dudena, Cardoso has a legal background, holding a law degree from Feira de Santana University. Cardoso’s immediate priorities as SPA chief Following Dudena's departure, sources informed iGB that the permanent successor was anticipated to be either Cardoso or Fabio Macorin, the SPA's Undersecretary of Monitoring and Inspection. Nonetheless, Cardoso was the one who signed the SPA's 2026/27 regulatory agenda, which the agency unveiled in February. Executing the agenda's work is expected to be Cardoso's primary focus in her new permanent role, with the SPA aiming to enhance Brazil's licensing procedures and assist in combating the still-widespread black market. A new challenge to address is the recent entry of prediction market operator Kalshi into the Brazilian market, as the SPA has recently raised concerns about the presence of prediction markets. Following Kalshi's announcement of its launch in Brazil—its first market outside the US—the SPA stated that no Brazilian companies are authorized to provide prediction markets in the country. “The prediction market is included in the Secretariat's internal analysis agenda, with initial studies currently ongoing,” the SPA noted. It remains unclear whether prediction markets will fall under the SPA's jurisdiction or that of the Brazilian Securities and Exchange Commission. Another challenge comes in the form of increasing political pressure, with ongoing efforts to restrict the licensed fixed-odds betting sector. Earlier this month, Senator Eduardo Girão introduced a bill aiming to limit customer retention by prohibiting certain methods, including loyalty programs and cashback. 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) - Favorites controlled the opening rounds of March Madness, winning 20 consecutive games at one point, but sportsbooks secured a major victory when top-seeded Florida fell to No. 9 Iowa on Sunday. The Gators were a popular betting choice heading into the NCAA Tournament, making their unexpected defeat a significant benefit for sportsbooks. “That halted the onslaught of bets on favorites and moneyline parlays,” said Caesars Sports Head of Basketball Trading Rich Zanco. “Iowa’s win was a major necessity. It saved the day.” Gators Get Gone, Sportsbooks Get Paid Florida entered the game as a favorite by up to 10.5 points against Iowa. The Gators' moneyline was -550, implying an 84.62% chance of winning the game straight up. “The betting action was overwhelmingly on Florida. There were numerous parlays involving Florida on both the moneyline and the spread,” Zanco stated. “Clearly, Iowa winning and eliminating Florida from championship futures betting is very significant.” Zanco mentioned that Caesars Sports accepted a “significant” six-figure wager on Florida to cover a 10-point spread just before the game began. Major upsets are an annual feature of March Madness. With the defending champion Florida eliminated, the remaining No. 1 seeds—Arizona, Michigan, and Duke—now lead the national championship odds. Sportsbooks also gained from Florida's removal from the futures market. SuperBook Vice President John Murray pointed out that Florida represented one of his book's largest potential payouts. “That's an excellent result for us. All the accumulating liability from moneyline parlays was tied to Florida and Arizona,” Murray said. “Getting Florida out of the futures book is also great. That was huge for us.” He added, “I don't want to reach the Final Four and still have Florida and Duke in contention.” Duke advanced after defeating TCU 81-58 on Saturday. The Blue Devils had narrowly escaped an upset by No. 16 Siena in the first round. Bettors Benefit From Epic Run By Favorites Moneyline parlays that stack favorites are a common strategy for many bettors. With these wagers, the point spread doesn't matter; the favored teams simply need to win their games. One such parlay, combining Iowa, St. John’s, Houston, and Illinois, was successful on Saturday. Favorites won every one of the 16 games on Friday and the initial four on Saturday, enabling bettors to profit handsomely from these parlays built on favorites. “The wave of favorites kept coming, and we couldn't find an underdog to win,” Zanco remarked. “Bettors found particular success on Saturday with Michigan and Michigan State, and then carried those winnings into the Duke game.” He added, “Bettors performed exceptionally well on Saturday.” 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 dispute has broken out in South Korea following a senior coast guard officer's visit to an illegal gambling establishment, after which he received what some called a "promotion." According to the South Korean media outlet MBN, the unnamed officer was the chief of a substation in the Gunsan Coast Guard when he was apprehended for gambling in an illegal betting venue last August. During a raid on the den, detectives arrested the officer. In court, the officer claimed innocence, stating to the judges: "I didn’t know I was in a gambling den." The court found his defense unconvincing and convicted him of illegal gambling. Nonetheless, unnamed commentators described his sentence as "a mere slap on the wrist." Gunsan City Hall. (Image: WanjuMuanSinan [CC BY-SA 4.0]) Controversy in South Korea: Gambler ‘Promoted’ The judges imposed a fine of 1 million won ($664) on the officer, which is the minimum penalty for the crime. The Coast Guard did not suspend the officer from his duties while awaiting the court's final ruling. Soon after, as part of a standard staff reorganization, Gunsan officials appointed the officer to be a section chief in a police station's intelligence department. Residents on local Gunsan online forums voiced their concern, arguing it was unjust for a public official facing a gambling charge to be given a senior criminal intelligence role so quickly. Some asserted that the move was effectively a "promotion." A spokesperson for the Gunsan Coast Guard station stated: "With his many years of prior experience at a police substation, [the officer] has extensive knowledge of local intelligence. We therefore initially considered him suitable for the position." However, after a wave of critical posts emerged on anonymous forums, Gunsan authorities took action. The spokesperson confirmed that the so-called promotion has been revoked. The officer has been moved to a lower-ranking role in a different department, the spokesperson added. The officer involved declined to provide a statement on the issue, the media outlet reported. Crackdown Continues South Korean police have intensified their efforts against illegal betting operations this year. In a recent incident in Yeongju, North Gyeongsang Province, police confronted a man in his 60s after a dispute during gambling. The man allegedly had a fierce argument with other individuals during an illegal betting game in the Punggi area. In a rage, he pursued them with an unloaded air pistol and fired it towards them. After causing panic, he fled to his home, with police in pursuit. Upon their arrival, he used the weapon to injure himself. He survived the incident but sustained a major injury, as later verified by a hospital. 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) - CSA Cosmic, a South Korean cosmetics company that is set to become the majority shareholder of Blue One Casino on Jeju Island, aims to attract more VIP visitors through luxury offerings that merge beauty and leisure. The company, which is listed on KOSDAQ and headquartered in Seoul, produces cosmetics and building materials. It plans to invest KRW3.5 billion ($2.36 million) in Blue One, which operated as Jeju Sun under its previous owner, Philippines-based Bloomberry Resorts Corp. The venue reopened under its new name on March 16. Of the total investment, KRW1.3 billion will be used to buy convertible bonds, while KRW2.2 billion will be provided as cash loans. Through a debt-to-equity conversion, the loan will be transformed into shares, establishing CSA as Blue One's biggest shareholder. Blue One intends to separate its hotel and casino operations into distinct entities, with CSA Cosmic taking over the casino business. "Our involvement in this casino operation represents not merely an external expansion, but rather establishing a foundational platform for structural growth that integrates beauty and leisure," CSA Cosmic stated. The company committed to "boosting shareholder value by optimizing the synergies between our current brand transformation and new ventures." According to Chosun Biz, CSA Cosmic will launch a visitor package that merges "K-beauty experiences" with "exclusive VIP tourism services" targeting international clientele. Can Blue One succeed where Bloomberry failed? KH Holdings, Blue One's parent company, purchased the former Jeju Sun property from Bloomberry Resorts earlier this month. The acquisition cost KRW7 billion, with a remaining payment of KRW3 billion scheduled for February 2027. The transaction signaled Bloomberry's departure from South Korea's casino sector, though the company retains leases on the gaming areas and continues managing the hotel and food and beverage facilities. Bloomberry initially bought Jeju Sun (then called THE Hotel Vegas) in 2015. Enrique Razon, Chairman and CEO of Bloomberry, later acknowledged that the purchase was a mistake, citing South Korea's strict prohibition on gambling by local residents. Kangwon Land, located in the remote Gangwon Province, remains the sole casino accessible to South Korean nationals. "When local residents are barred from gambling, you cannot develop a genuine property or a true resort," Razon commented in 2020. "The operation will always remain small, essentially a niche business, and will likely struggle to expand." Bloomberry Resorts chief Enrique Razon Jr. has blamed the former Jeju Sun casino's poor performance in South Korea on restrictions against local gambling. Kangwon Land, shown above in a mountainous former mining area, is the only venue where South Koreans are permitted to gamble. During the first half of 2025, Jeju Sun posted gross gaming revenue of PHP6.2 million, representing a decline of PHP45.1 million compared to the same timeframe in 2024. The hotel and food and beverage divisions produced revenue of PHP183.3 million in the first six months of 2025, marking a modest 1.1 percent rise. KH Holdings aims to improve on these results. The company has noted a transformation in tourism expenditure trends, moving away from "shopping-focused trips" toward "experience and entertainment-driven travel." Blue One will "advocate for a stay-centric tourism approach by persuading overseas guests to extend their visits and raise individual spending," according to the company. The casino will concentrate on table games to achieve "consistent revenue expansion and financial success" within the high-end market. Marjorie PrestonMarjorie started her career in the gaming industry in 2007 and has specialized in Asian gaming markets since 2020. In her personal time, she contributes articles on travel and cinema and is a drummer. 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) - Players accessing William Hill’s online casino unexpectedly found large sums added to their accounts. In one reported instance, a user received a six-figure deposit. The company has moved quickly to limit the fallout, offering users the option to keep 11% of their windfalls if they agree to return the remaining amount. The glitch appears to have originated on the platform’s Jackpot Drop game. After receiving the unexpectedly large payouts, a number of users immediately initiated withdrawals of the funds. In response, William Hill sent emails asking users to return the incorrectly credited money. One email sent to affected users stated, “During a regular review of platform operations, we identified an issue impacting the Jackpot Drop game, which led to wrong amounts being added to players’ balances and withdrawals being processed improperly.” The email further noted, “Our review has confirmed that specific balances added to your account and later withdrawn did not come from valid gameplay, and are linked to the issue affecting the Jackpot Drop game.” William Hill noted that its Terms and Conditions grant it the right to void transactions, adjust account balances, and reclaim any funds paid out in error in cases where a game malfunction or technical error takes place. Users Battle to Hold Onto Funds Users shared screenshots of the unprecedented payouts across social media platforms. One user on X posted an image they claim belongs to their friend, showing the account had been credited with more than £140,000 ($188,000). William Hill account holding winnings of more than £140,000 Image credit: @stevn_coyw on X Another user reported that his grandfather had been credited £330,000 ($442,000) and had already withdrawn £33,000 of that sum. He alleges William Hill is threatening legal action if the funds that were withdrawn are not returned. Past Rulings Have Sided With Users In an earlier UK case, Corrine Durber had more than £1 million ($1.3 million) in winnings credited to her account for a Paddy Power casino game in October 2020. The gambling firm blamed a computer error and attempted to reduce the customer’s payout to just £20,000. The case proceeded to court, and a judge eventually granted summary judgment in Durber’s favor last year, meaning she won without a trial. In the ruling, the judge stated, “When a trader places all risk on a consumer for its own recklessness, negligence, mistakes, insufficient digital services and inadequate testing, that appears overly burdensome to me.” William Hill stated it is hopeful that customers will be cooperative and return the funds. A company spokesperson said, “We have reached out to relevant customers to clarify the issue, and are in the process of reclaiming the funds in accordance with our standard terms and conditions. We are thankful for our customers’ understanding of this situation.” The platform faces an unclear future, with parent company Evoke announcing a strategic review last year following tax increases in the UK. The company has since delayed the publication of its financial results for the final quarter of 2025. 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) - Yesterday's upset of top-seeded Florida by Iowa shattered March Madness brackets as the NCAA Tournament advances to the Sweet 16. The other No. 1 seeds, Arizona, Michigan, and Duke, are still the top betting choices for the national title, but we will also highlight a sleeper and a longshot pick that offer greater potential returns. Updated NCAA Tournament Futures Odds at DraftKings Below are the latest odds from DraftKings for teams to win the national championship, current as of publication: TeamOddsArizona+330Michigan+340Duke+370Houston+700Purdue+1300Illinois+1400Iowa State+1600UConn+2500Michigan State+3000St. John’s+3500Arkansas+4000Nebraska+4500Tennessee+6000Iowa+12000Alabama+13000Texas+30000 Best Bet on Favorite to Win NCAA Tournament Duke +370 The tournament's top overall seed got a major scare and a wake-up call in its first-round game against 16th-seeded Siena. Favored by 27.5 points, the Blue Devils narrowly avoided disaster with a 71-65 win, a result that nearly became one of the greatest upsets in March Madness history. Duke returned to dominant form in an 81-58 victory over TCU on Saturday. The team was bolstered by the return of center Patrick Ngongba II to the rotation. He has been managing foot problems for weeks, causing him to miss the ACC Tournament and the opener against Siena. Ngongba's role will be vital for Duke in its Sweet 16 contest with St. John’s. He is expected to be the primary defender on forward Zuby Ejiofor, a formidable presence inside. Ejiofor posted a team-best 18 points and nine rebounds in his team's win over Kansas yesterday. TCU limited Duke standout Cameron Boozer to only two first-half points, but the country's premier player recovered to lead his team with 19 points. Boozer entered the tournament as the favorite to be named NCAA Tournament MVP. Isaiah Evans provides Duke with a significant perimeter scoring threat. He scored 17 points against TCU after putting up 16 versus Siena, making two three-pointers in each contest. Best Bet on Sleeper Pick to win NCAA Tournament Michigan State +3000 Head coach Tom Izzo has guided the Spartans to the Sweet 16 for the 17th time in his career. However, he is pursuing only his second national championship, with Michigan State's last title coming in 2000. The Spartans are led by versatile point guard Jeremy Fears Jr., who tops the nation with 9.4 assists per game and also leads Michigan State in scoring at 15.3 points per game. Michigan State also possesses a sizable and productive frontcourt. Jaxon Kohler (12.6 ppg, 8.9 rpg), Coen Carr (12 ppg, 5.5 rpg), and Carson Cooper (11 ppg, 7.1 rpg) all average double-digit points as well. That skilled front line will be essential to containing UConn center Tarris Reed in the Sweet 16. Reed paces the Huskies with averages of 14.2 points and 8.8 rebounds per game. Look for Michigan State to advance past UConn, which would potentially set up an Elite Eight showdown with Duke. Best Bet on Longshot to Win NCAA Tournament Tennessee +6000 The Volunteers rely on their defense, which allows just 69.1 points per game. Sixth-seeded Tennessee "upset" No. 3 Virginia 79-72 to reach the Sweet 16, despite actually being favored by 1.5 points in that matchup. Ja’kobi Gillespie led the Volunteers with 21 points, and Nate Ament contributed 16. Tennessee also boasts a signature victory over Houston from this season. Tennessee meets Iowa State in the Sweet 16. The Cyclones may once again be missing star player Joshua Jefferson (16.4 ppg, 7.4 rpg, 4.8 apg), who sustained a serious ankle sprain in the tournament's first round. KenPom ranks Jefferson second in the national player of the year race, behind only Duke's Boozer. Although the Volunteers are 4.5-point underdogs against the Cyclones, a Tennessee win would not be shocking considering their recent hot shooting. Gillespie totaled 50 points across the first two tournament games. In yesterday's win over Virginia, Tennessee shot 42.1% from beyond the arc and connected on eight three-pointers. Gillespie hit three of those, while Bishop Boswell knocked down four. 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 a 20 March report from livestreaming analytics firm Stream Hatchet, Stake is by far the most frequently referenced operator on livestreaming platforms. The analysis revealed that Stake appeared in 6,600 stream titles on Twitch and Kick during January 2026, representing 60% of total iGaming brand mentions. 1xBet placed a distant second with 1,800 mentions, trailed by Betano (837), Winamax (653), FanDuel (597), Bet365 (214) and PokerStars (270). Kick is owned by Stake's parent company—a connection that Stream Hatchet content manager Mark Rowland credits for Stake's commanding lead in the rankings. "Many Kick streamers receive a bankroll directly from Stake, which they use to gamble during their broadcasts," Rowland told iGB. He noted that numerous operators establish commercial partnerships with streamers, frequently providing complimentary account credits for betting purposes, and in exchange, streamers typically feature the brand name in their stream titles. Kick the leading platform for gambling livestreams Although Twitch holds the biggest market share in livestreaming, rival Kick maintains an explicitly pro-gambling streaming policy that has drawn many leading gambling content creators to its service. The research showed that all ten of the top iGaming livestreamers broadcast on Kick, collectively generating 88.4 million hours of iGaming content viewership in January. Trainwreckstv, among the first creators to migrate to Kick following its 2022 launch, recorded the highest iGaming content watch time at 15.7 million hours. Rowland suggested that beyond Stake, other operators' sponsorship of esports tournaments and various competitions broadcast on streaming platforms likely boosted their visibility. "1xBet backs several esports teams, and naturally esports draws significant viewership on livestreaming platforms. Additionally, both 1xBet and Betano sponsor football clubs, and football enjoys massive popularity on streaming services, especially in Latin America and Spain," Rowland explained. Image credit: Stream Hatchet While Twitch permits some gambling content, the Amazon-owned platform's terms of service forbid users from streaming specific gambling sites such as Stake and Rollbit, referencing inadequate consumer safeguards and licensing issues. Twitch revised its policies to prohibit these sites following pushback from parts of the livestreaming community. "The issue sparked major controversy in 2022 when prominent streamers such as Pokimane raised concerns about the risks of gambling content fostering addictive behavior, especially among younger audiences," Rowland added. Prediction markets gaining streaming popularity The report also identified that prediction market content is expanding and stimulating discussion on livestreaming platforms, with Polymarket and Kalshi commanding the betting-related conversation on Twitch and Kick. Stream Hatchet discovered that Polymarket led all betting and prediction market operators with 12,000 mentions in January 2026, with Kalshi close behind at 11,700. FanDuel placed third with 8,800 mentions, followed by PrizePicks (5,300) and DraftKings (3,300). 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) - Kalshi has been compelled to leave a U.S. state for the first time, temporarily halting access to its sports markets in Nevada after a judge issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) against the company. Legal disputes over the platform’s contentious sports prediction markets are escalating, and a new lawsuit has targeted Kalshi’s co-founders personally. The Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) announced the state issued the TRO on Friday. In a press release, Chairman Mike Dreitzer stated, “Kalshi has repeatedly claimed its operations are legal in all 50 states, which is clearly false.” “Prediction markets that enable unlicensed gambling are illegal in Nevada, and we have a statutory duty to protect the public. We want Nevada residents to wager safely with a licensed bookmaker.” The TRO remains in effect until April 3, when a hearing will be held. Kalshi’s departure from the state follows a judge’s denial of the company’s request for an administrative stay—something that would have allowed it to continue operating while the case proceeds. Kalshi Confident in Legal Position Kalshi emailed users on Saturday to confirm it would restrict Nevada users from accessing sports, entertainment, and election markets. The email stated, “We’ll get straight to it. Due to a temporary court order, our sports, entertainment, and election-related markets are being restricted in Nevada. You can still sell your positions or wait for them to settle, but you won’t be able to buy new contracts.” It added, “This situation is unprecedented—Nevada is currently the only state with temporary restrictions in place from a court order. We disagree with these restrictions, but as a law-abiding company, we’re complying. We’re confident in our legal stance and will keep fighting for your right to trade the same products available in 49 other states.” Other states have issued unfavorable rulings against Kalshi but generally allowed the company to keep operating until those rulings are finalized. In Massachusetts, a judge granted the state an injunction, but Kalshi won a motion to stay from the appeals court. Latest Lawsuit Names Kalshi Founders As it battles state regulators across the country, Kalshi is also facing a wave of lawsuits from individuals and legal firms. The latest filing specifically names Kalshi co-founders Tarek Mansour and Luana Lopes Lara. The company’s Chief Compliance Officer, Joshua Beardsley, is also named in the suit, which was filed in California. As gaming lawyer Daniel Wallach highlighted, the lawsuit notes the defendants initially “admitted that Sporting Event Contracts have ‘no inherent economic significance.’” During a hearing where Kalshi fought for the legal right to offer election markets, a company lawyer stated, “[Y]ou can see it in the congressional record, and they give three examples of gaming contracts: Football, horse racing, golf. They’re all games. It’s something that has no inherent economic significance. It’s done for amusement. It may be purely to facilitate betting itself for its own sake.” The lawsuit alleges that despite “repeatedly recognizing this legal line in the sand, the Kalshi Defendants got greedy and crossed it in bad faith.” Legal firms from four states filed the lawsuit on Friday. Unlike most litigation—which focuses on the company violating state gambling laws—the suit claims Kalshi is breaking the Commodity Exchange Act (CEA), the rulebook for prediction market platforms. The CEA prohibits gaming-related markets, but the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has not opposed platforms offering sports markets. It has issued an advisory on sports markets but has not gone so far as to say these markets constitute gaming. Despite mounting legal challenges, Kalshi recorded its second-highest single-day trading volume thanks to March Madness and surpassed $3 billion in weekly trading volume. The company was valued at $22 billion in a recent funding round. 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) - Prosecutors in Japan have announced they will not bring charges against Rakuten Eagles professional baseball player Hideto Asamura and two unidentified team staff members for using online casino platforms. Online casinos are prohibited in Japan, and accessing overseas sites from within the country constitutes a crime. On March 4, police referred 35-year-old infielder Asamura and the team officials to public prosecutors, as reported by Japanese media outlet Sponichi Annex. The three were alleged to have violated gambling laws by “using their smartphones to bet on overseas online casino websites.” However, on March 18, the Sendai District Public Prosecutor’s Office released a statement indicating it would not indict any of the trio. The office noted it had “considered various circumstances” but provided no further details on the matter. The Eagles—officially the Tohoku Rakuten Golden Eagles—are based in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture. The Rakuten Eagles infielder Hideto Asamura in action in 2019. (Image: Jeffrey Hayes [CC BY 2.0]) Hideto Asamura: No Charges for Baseball Star The recent allegations were a poorly timed setback for the Nippon Professional Baseball Organization (NPB), whose new season kicks off Friday, March 27. Last season’s NPB campaign was overshadowed by a series of gambling-related scandals amid a police crackdown on online casino wagering. At least a dozen players and staff from several top NPB teams faced warnings and fines from police and lower courts. The NPB had hoped to move past the issue ahead of the 2026 season. Earlier this year, it held special gambling awareness sessions for rookie players and training for new umpires. Many players accused in such cases have claimed they were unaware that betting on online casino platforms was illegal in Japan. Teams say they now run their own online casino-focused educational sessions to ensure all staff and players understand the criminal nature of online gambling. Team Issues Apology A Rakuten Eagles representative apologized for the incident, stating, “We are deeply sorry for causing [the public] so much worry and inconvenience.” The official said the franchise would “strongly remind those involved of their responsibilities as members of the baseball community.” “As a team, we will strive to further improve our compliance awareness,” the spokesperson added. “We will continue to fully implement measures to prevent a recurrence.” Japanese baseball is not the only league grappling with gambling-related controversies ahead of the upcoming season. In neighboring South Korea, fans criticized three Lotte Giants players after they were found gambling at a betting den in Taiwan during a preseason training camp. Authorities have handed down lengthy suspensions to all three, meaning they will miss most of the 2026 season. The Korea Baseball Organization season begins March 28. 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 Autoridad de Juegos (AJ), Bolivia's Gaming Control Authority, reported on March 18 that it granted 1,226 domestic gambling licenses in 2025. The authority did not specify the breakdown between B2C and B2B licenses. Furthermore, the AJ stated it had utilized over 90% of its 2025 budget, simultaneously enhancing regulatory supervision and enforcement activities nationwide. The year's funding for the AJ was allocated to regulating and overseeing lotteries, gambling operations, raffles, and business promotions throughout the country. In 2025, organizers of promotional events and raffles distributed prizes totaling 573 million bolivianos (equivalent to $82.8 million). Regarding the quantity of licenses issued within the sector, the regulator commented that this "demonstrated the interest of operators in conducting their activities within the established legal framework." This update was presented during a virtual hearing on March 18, fulfilling Bolivia's constitutional mandate for public entities to report on their operational performance and resource deployment. Nationwide Enforcement Campaign Targets Unlicensed Operators Throughout the 12-month period, efforts to combat the black market were intensified, with the AJ carrying out raids on 82 illicit gambling venues. These operations resulted in the confiscation of 119 gambling devices and the destruction of 230 illegally operated machines and equipment across Bolivia. Recent enforcement actions also involved specific interventions in Cochabamba's peri-urban zones, where authorities dismantled unauthorized gaming establishments operating without regulatory supervision. Within the same timeframe, the authority's operational procedures received ISO 9001:2015 certification from Colombia's ICONTEC after an external audit. This represents a notable advancement toward standardizing regulatory practices within the Bolivian market and the broader Latin American region. Bolivia's gambling market has seen swift expansion, fueled by retail lotteries, raffles, and a rise in promotional business endeavors. Nevertheless, concerns regarding integrity in sports betting have underscored the necessity for robust regulatory supervision. In February, the football sector came under renewed examination due to allegations of match-fixing involving players from Club Real Santa Cruz. 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) - Legal specialists think the white label gambling sponsorship framework shouldn’t face jeopardy if the UK government enforces a ban on unlicensed gambling sponsorships within football. This measure is under consideration through industry consultations, which the Department for Culture, Media and Sport stated is a response to the increasing threat of the black market in the UK. The aim would be to prevent non-UK-licensed companies from using Premier League clubs to target British consumers. In a statement dated 23 February, the government cautioned that the black market is connected to organized crime and that unlicensed operators “expose customers to fraud and identity theft risks”. A number of Premier League clubs currently have partnerships with unregulated operators. That said, there’s another model allowing non-UK operators to collaborate with licensed counterparts to provide a white label version of their product in the UK as part of a gambling sponsorship agreement. At this stage of the DCMS process, it remains unclear how this model might be affected. White label model not a threat if govt prioritizes consumer protection A lawyer who collaborates closely with clubs on operator sponsorship agreements notes that white label sponsorships shouldn’t be endangered if the government’s focus is on eliminating money laundering and payment practices that put British consumers at risk. “The white label model isn’t impacted by that because there’s a party that legitimately processes payments from British consumers in a compliant manner,” she points out. Melanie Ellis, a partner at Northridge Law, thinks the future for white label partners is somewhat unclear. She proposes that the government might aim to block sponsorships from gambling brands that use a white label setup to advertise in Great Britain while also running their own sites licensed in other jurisdictions. UK Gambling Minister Baroness Twycross stated in December last year that white label football sponsorships were under scrutiny. This came after reports that Curaçao-licensed BC Game was operating illegally in several markets and had been declared bankrupt by a local court for failing to pay out player winnings. Back then, BC Game quickly lost its UK white label license, and its sponsorship agreement with Leicester City was called into doubt. “I believe the government will most likely seek to ban gambling operators from sponsoring clubs if they are not ‘subject to’ a Gambling Commission license—this would let sponsorships under the white label model continue,” Ellis explains. “Crafting such a ban that operators can’t get around, yet doesn’t accidentally restrict other setups where a licensee runs gambling sites under various brands, will be difficult.” She thinks this step would mirror the government’s worries about unlicensed brands luring British players. “When a white label partnership is in place, British consumers should be directed to the licensed site when looking for the advertised brand.” How long might it take to put the unlicensed sponsorship ban into effect? Regarding when the possible ban might take effect, amending or updating legislation in the UK is usually a time-consuming process. “I expect they’d want to table something before summer,” the legal source comments. “The timeline reflects a phase of discussions between the Gambling Commission and DCMS about whether legislative changes or other steps are needed,” Ellis states. “I expect the [two parties] will want to roll out this [ban] within a fairly short period, but I think at least 18 months will be required to finish the consultation process and get the necessary legislation approved and enacted.” Licensed operators commend the consultation Over recent years, UK football has seen numerous questionable deals that have stalled after brands exited the UK market. Last year, Stake kept its multi-year front-of-shirt agreement with Everton even though a Gambling Commission investigation revoked its UK license. However, the government has not provided clear guidance in such cases. Clubs have been advised to conduct due diligence on operators. Entain CEO Stella David recently alleged that the Premier League is lobbying the government to “keep unregulated gambling brands on shirt sleeves and stadium signs.” In a February letter to the League, she further stated that its “ongoing support for illegal gambling sponsorships [has] been extremely worrying.” David is one of several licensed operators who have lauded the DCMS consultation, which the department said would launch “this spring.” 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 German security researcher has admitted to compromising the systems of the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA), reportedly accessing confidential data such as operator compliance documents and player records. Lilith Wittmann, who identifies as an ethical hacker, claimed last week in a since-deleted social media post that she possessed evidence tying the regulator to organized crime within Malta's gambling industry. On March 17, the MGA publicly confirmed a security incident within one of its systems and engaged its internal response protocols, stating that the matter is being treated with the highest priority. The authority refrained from revealing specific details about the nature of the compromised data. Wittmann confessed to the hack in a tweet on March 20, adding, "And yes, we will expose the organised crime enablement schemes you created while presenting yourselves as a ‘legitimate public service’." MGA condemns Wittmann breach The MGA issued a follow-up statement on Friday condemning Wittmann's actions, describing them as "unacceptable and incompatible with lawful engagement with public institutions and established governance frameworks." The regulator asserted, however, that Wittmann's allegations are "unsubstantiated and do not undermine the MGA’s role as a regulator committed to transparency, due process and the rule of law". "The Authority operates within a robust legal and regulatory framework and carries out its statutory functions with integrity, independence and accountability," the statement continued. Wittmann has a history of involvement in ethical hacking within the gambling sector. In March 2025, she revealed a significant player data breach across German gaming platforms operated by Merkur Gaming. The breach exploited unsecured APIs, exposing approximately 800,000 player accounts through an unprotected endpoint. At that time, she wrote in a blog post that she utilized a GraphQL query to access highly sensitive player data, including financial information and sign-up details. The incident prompted scrutiny regarding the security measures operators and their third-party providers should employ to protect players. The German regulator (GGL) did not take a strict enforcement approach against the companies involved at the time. Wittmann, however, warned of the risk that the GGL could be implicated if hackers used the breached information to steal further player data from the regulator itself. 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.