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(AsiaGameHub) -   Leonardo Biazzi – SBC Noticias Brazil After a week of intense political wrangling over the future of the Bets Law, reports confirm that Lula is drafting his own Presidential Decree governing gambling.  Leonardo Biazzi, Editor of SBC Noticias Brasil, believes the President will choose to bypass standard legislative pathways to restructure Brazil’s gambling sector. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva will reveal his plans for the future of the Bets Law and online gambling in Brazil by mid-May. This update did not come from officials within the Workers Party (PT) government, but from an exclusive report by journalist Lauro Jardim published in his weekly column for O Globo. Jardim notes that Lula aims to resolve rifts in the divisive online gambling regulatory system via a presidential decree introducing new reforms and safeguards. The measure will be coordinated by the Civil House, with contributions from the Ministries of Finance, Planning and Justice. Lula has been described as “no friend of the Bets Regime”, and this week industry stakeholders closely watched the President to see if he would back a bill submitted to Congress by the PT government’s Legal Caucus to repeal the Bets Law. The Bill (PL-1808/2026,) was signed by PT Deputy Pedro Uczai and 68 fellow party members, and would authorize a full ban on all forms of gambling (excluding lotteries), as well as implement broad rule changes and penalties to crack down on third parties including financial institutions and media outlets that coerce people into gambling. Media outlets have pressed the PT for clarity on whether the President supports the gambling ban, which would return Brazil to a state of prohibition after just 15 months of legal betting under the existing Bets framework. Yet, in an unexpected turn, Lula appears ready to introduce his own proposals as a countermeasure: rejecting a full ban, but significantly tightening controls on online gambling, as well as eligibility rules for users and market participants. As outlined in Jardim’s exclusive report, Lula aims to build a regulatory system that will bar people enrolled in government financial assistance programs from accessing betting services.  With this decree, Lula is again working to protect Bolsa Família recipients from participating in online gambling – an issue that was a core priority during the drafting of the original Bets framework. Lula seeks to eliminate gambling-related household debt The PT government continues to frame betting as a key driver of household debt, citing Serasa data showing more than 80 million Brazilians are currently indebted. However, this narrative is contradicted by official figures from the Secretariat of Prizes and Bets (SPA/MF), which show gambling makes up just 0.46% of total household consumption. In addition to participation limits, Lula is expected to roll out wide-ranging protections for gambling advertising, targeting what the government calls “manipulative” marketing practices, especially content that encourages compulsive behavior or addiction among consumers. Addressing household debt remains a core part of Lula’s political calculus, serving as a key pillar of his approval ratings and re-election strategy ahead of Brazil’s October election cycle. In summary, Lula has effectively positioned the Bets regime as a political adversary, framing online gambling as a central point of debate in the PT government’s campaign messaging ahead of a potential fourth presidential term. However, this approach carries the risk of sparking new tensions. If the President moves forward with a decree that overrides or sidelines the existing framework, it is likely to draw criticism from both industry stakeholders and legislative observers, many of whom question why the government has not worked with Congress to resolve outstanding issues such as targeted advertising rules and the finalization of consumer protection measures. A presidential decree may ultimately turn out to be an unnecessary escalation. There are already existing mechanisms within the legislative process to address concerns related to indebted consumers and market safeguards. As seen with the controversial tax changes to the Bets regime at the end of 2025, there is a growing risk that executive overreach could weaken policy coherence, turning what is presented as reform into another misstep in the PT government’s management of the sector. 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) -   With the industry facing increasing pressure from cyber threats, fraud, and regulatory uncertainties, SBC Summit Malta will feature a dedicated ‘Operations and Compliance’ stage. This stage aims to assist businesses in enhancing security and developing more resilient operations. Scheduled for April 29 and 30, the programme will convene C-level executives, security and fraud specialists, regulators, and market leaders. They will explore strategies for businesses to safeguard themselves across financial, operational, and reputational fronts. On Wednesday, April 29, the Risk, Regulation and Resilience track will address fraud, cybersecurity, and black market activities through expert panels, fireside chats, and C-level discussions. On Thursday, April 30, the focus shifts to Policy in Practice, offering hands-on workshops that tackle operational and regulatory challenges in SEO and AI. The fireside chat ‘Tax Hikes 2026: Market Shocks, Regulatory Risks & Margin Impact’ will examine how increasing tax pressures are influencing operators across key European markets. Featuring Stephen Hodgson (VP of Tax, Midnite), Sara Haddow (Group Tax Director, Entain), and Russell Mifsud (Director, Head of Gaming Europe, KPMG), the session will delve into how businesses can adapt to rising tax burdens and the implications for competitiveness, consolidation, and potential market exits. The session “The COO Horizon: Challenges and Opportunities in 2026/27” will explore how operational leadership is being tested by escalating costs and compliance demands. With speakers Ramon Glieneke (COO, Alea), Tom McGovern (Chief Operations Officer, Flutter UKI), Tim De Borle (COO, Casumo), and Chris McGowan (COO, Scatters), and moderated by Joe Streeter (Editor, iGaming Expert), the discussion will centre on investment priorities and how technologies like AI can support more efficient, scalable operations. Day two will then concentrate on the operational and regulatory considerations surrounding SEO and AI.  The workshop ‘SEO Terrorism in iGaming: Surviving Negative Attacks on Your Website’ will address the growing threat of negative SEO. Hosted by Ivana Flynn (Head of SEO and Strategy, Consultant), it will investigate how these attacks are executed, what attackers aim to achieve, and how to identify them early, providing participants with practical strategies to detect, track, and defend against malicious activity. The workshop ‘AI in Gaming: Shaping the Industry’s First AI Charter’ will examine the impact of forthcoming EU AI regulation and its practical implications for operators. Led by Kinga Warda (Chief of Policy and Insight, Malta Gaming Authority) and Francois Piccione (Chief Technology Officer, Malta Gaming Authority), it will offer early clarity on the standards shaping compliance and how businesses can align their processes accordingly. ‘From AI Tools to AI Embedded in Business Workflows’ will explore how to integrate AI from a standalone tool into a core component of business operations. Featuring Philippe Guillod (VP, Analytics) and Fraser Dunk (CEO, Jurnii), the session will highlight how organisations are embedding AI into everyday processes to drive efficiency and improve decision-making, offering practical strategies to move beyond experimentation and deliver tangible value. SBC Summit Malta will take place at the InterContinental Hotel from 28-30 April. Alongside the conference programme, the event will offer 6,000 attendees the opportunity to explore a curated exhibition floor and connect through a range of networking opportunities. ____________________________________________________________________________ Secure Your Tickets for SBC Summit Malta Ensure your attendance at SBC Summit Malta by purchasing our VIP Event Pass. Priced at €600, this pass grants you full access to all aspects of SBC Summit Malta, encompassing three days of networking, conference sessions, and the exhibition. An Expo+ Pass is also available for €150. Operators and affiliates are eligible to apply for a complimentary pass. Operators can request a free pass here. Affiliates can request their free passes here.  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) -   UK-based bet365 is aggressively pursuing its expansion strategy in the US market with its launch in Michigan, marking its 17th state of operation, and an 18th launch appears imminent. The multinational firm, founded and headquartered in Staffordshire, announced its Michigan debut today (April 17) at 9am Eastern Time. This launch coincides with new partnerships established with the Detroit Red Wings of the National Hockey League (NHL) and the Detroit Tigers of Major League Baseball (MLB). New Jersey was bet365's initial entry point into the US market in 2019, a year after the Supreme Court's 2018 decision to overturn the federal PASPA legislation that had prohibited sports betting. This repeal enabled individual states to establish their own multi-licence betting markets, with 41 currently operational. The British company stands out as a significant European success in the US, a market that, despite its high profitability, has proven challenging for other European operators such as Betfred, Betsson, Unibet, Betway, and Tipico, all of whom experienced limited success in their attempts to penetrate the US. bet365 is notable as one of the few European-rooted companies to have successfully established a strong presence in the US. Other prominent examples include Flutter Entertainment, which owns FanDuel, and Entain, a co-owner of BetMGM in partnership with MGM Resorts. A robust marketing strategy has been crucial to bet365's US expansion. This strategy encompasses sports sponsorships, evident in today's Michigan launch and previous entries into states like Missouri, where the company partnered with MLB's St Louis Cardinals. Furthermore, a broader US and Canada-wide agreement was recently secured with the UFC. Promotional offers are also a key component. To kickstart its Michigan operations, bet365 has introduced a 'Bet $10, Get £365' promotion for sports bettors and a 'get 1,000 free spins and up to $1,000 deposit match for casino players'. The company is also highlighting its Early Payout and Prize Matcher features. Trip Stoddard, Head of Business Development at bet365, stated, “We are enthusiastic about launching bet365 in Michigan and presenting an enhanced betting experience. This is a well-established market with informed enthusiasts, and we are confident that our product distinguishes itself.” He added, “Our features, such as the Early Payout offer, alongside our in-play betting experience and integrated casino, provide players with diverse engagement options and compelling reasons to select bet365.” Is bet365 Fully Committing to the US Market? The expansion of bet365 across the US occurs as the dynamics of the American betting and gaming industry evolve. This sector has seen a significant surge in customer engagement, revenue, and, to some degree, controversy since the 2018 repeal of PASPA. Recent data from the American Gaming Association (AGA) indicates that the US generated $71.9 billion in iGaming revenue in 2024, marking the fourth consecutive year the industry has surpassed its previous annual record. Understandably, this growth has sparked concerns nationwide regarding player protection and social responsibility. bet365 may soon need to directly address these issues, particularly as the company seems poised for a launch in Massachusetts, a northeastern state. On Thursday, April 9, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) unanimously approved the reopening of sports betting licence applications, following a request from bet365. Justin Stempeck, Deputy General Counsel for the MGC, disclosed that the company was seeking a Category 3 untethered licence. He informed commissioners, “bet365 has been in discussions with staff for a considerable period regarding the proper procedure for submitting a request to the commission to restart this specific process. We recommended they submit a formal letter, which they proceeded to do.” The MGC is recognized as a particularly stringent regulator concerning licensing applications and overall compliance. Furthermore, Massachusetts hosts several legislators who hold a notably critical perspective on the sector, including the proponents of SB 302, a bill aimed at 'addressing economic, health, and social harms caused by sports betting'. bet365 might face inquiries concerning responsible gambling, player safety, and its general business practices. Additionally, its past operations in significant Asian markets, such as China, could be subject to examination. Source: bet365 / BOXXER Finally, a significant emerging topic in the US is prediction markets. Platforms like Kalshi and Polymarket have seen a surge in popularity over recent years, especially thriving in Texas and California, states where sports betting remains prohibited. Several operators have capitalized on this trend, specifically Fanatics, DraftKings, and FanDuel (the latter being a subsidiary of the Irish-American conglomerate Flutter Entertainment). All three companies resigned from the American Gaming Association (AGA), an organization known for its stance against prediction markets, late last year. In March 2026, bet365 became the fourth company to withdraw from the AGA, prompting speculation that it might also be contemplating an entry into prediction markets. However, this remains purely speculative, as the company continues its membership with the Sports Betting Alliance (SBA) alongside the three other former AGA members. bet365 attributed its departure to the AGA's traditional emphasis on retail casino operations, contrasting with bet365's identity as a predominantly online sportsbook brand. A statement from bet365 at the time explained, “As an operator primarily focused on digital platforms, bet365 has withdrawn from the AGA because of the organization’s concentration on the retail casino sector.” “We highly value our industry collaborations and are dedicated to engaging constructively with regulators and partners throughout all markets where we operate,” the statement concluded. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. 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(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) -   Racecourse Media Group (RMG) has confirmed that Conor Grant will resign from his role as Chair at the close of 2026. RMG now counts 37 British racecourses as its shareholders, and serves as the parent company of Racing TV, which airs live racing fixtures from 61 racecourses across the UK and Ireland. Grant first joined RMG as a Non-Executive Director in April 2023, before being named Chair that October, and has been instrumental in bolstering the organization’s commercial standing. One of the final major deals negotiated during Grant’s tenure was the agreement between RMG and ITV in late 2025, which secured four years of racing coverage across ITV1, ITV4, and STV. Grant’s time leading RMG also fell during one of the most turbulent periods for horse racing in recent British history, sparked by last year’s Autumn Budget and months of campaigning from the racing sector to soften the blow of increased tax burdens as racing’s audience numbers declined. To recap, the Budget announced by Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves in November was preceded by widespread industry panic amid fears of sweeping across-the-board tax hikes. This turmoil hit horse racing particularly hard, prompting numerous racecourse staff to walk out on 10 September, leading to the cancellation of scheduled racing fixtures. For a time, the UK Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) — the trade body representing the betting and gaming industry — found itself at odds with the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), as the strike was not coordinated between the two organizations, raising the risk that relations between betting operators and racecourses would deteriorate further. Ultimately, while the Budget increased the Remote Gaming Duty (RGD) to 40% starting in April 2026 and the General Betting Duty (GBD) to 25% — with the GBD change taking effect in March of next year — horse racing betting duty remained at 15%. RMG was squarely at the center of this unrest during Grant’s tenure as Chair. Speaking about his decision to step down, he commented: “After careful consideration, I believe the end of my first term is the right moment to conclude my tenure as Chair of RMG due to increasing work commitments and travel to the US. “It has been a genuine privilege to lead this business over the last three years. CEO Nick Mills and his management team are making great progress delivering for our shareholders. “We have sharpened our strategy, invested in our leadership team, and continued to build on strong foundations. I am particularly grateful to all our shareholders for their trust and support throughout my time as Chair. And finally, I would like to thank an outstanding Board of Directors whose support and insight have been critical to our progress. “RMG is in a strong position with real momentum, and I am confident the business will continue to go from strength to strength in its next phase.” Nick Mills, who was promoted to CEO in October 2024, added: “Conor’s leadership has played a pivotal role in strengthening RMG and setting the business up for long-term success. He leaves with our sincere thanks and best wishes for the future.” 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 High Court of England and Wales has ruled that there were 'no mitigating errors' in the 2022 tender and procurement procedures for the Fourth National Lottery licence. In a ruling by Justice Joanna Smith, the legal challenge from The New Lottery Company (TNLC) was dismissed. TNLC is the lottery firm established by UK media mogul Richard Desmond's publishing group, Northern & Shell. TNLC had been a competitor against Allwyn and the then-operator Camelot UK for the right to run the National Lottery. The competition was overseen by the Gambling Commission, assisted by an independent board created specifically for the contest. While the board accepted TNLC's initial entry in phase one, which involved demonstrating its financial credentials, the company was eliminated in phase two (the scoring stage). Issues were identified regarding the compliance and technical accountability of its proposal. The board did not score TNLC's bid in this stage, explaining: "Due to failures in mandatory pass/fail criteria, TNLC’s application was not included in the final ranking of applicants." The final round pitted Allwyn UK (formerly SAZKA) against the incumbent, Camelot UK, the Ontario Teachers’ Pension Fund-backed company that had operated the National Lottery since its inception in 1994. After examining the procurement mechanisms, Justice Smith dismissed TNLC's assertions that the process was flawed and that Allwyn UK's victory was unlawful. End of a long legal road? Following the announcement of Allwyn's win, TNLC contested adjustments approved by the Commission that delayed the contract transition. TNLC argued that Allwyn had failed to meet a fundamental tender requirement, a failure it believed the board overlooked to favour Allwyn. Justice Smith rejected these claims, affirming the Commission's right to implement necessary changes "in a response to delivery risks". She noted that transferring a generational contract would necessitate "a compression of time available to achieve transition" to address "ongoing implementation challenges". After the decision, concerns were noted regarding the contract transition, and Camelot initiated its own legal action. This claim was later withdrawn when Allwyn UK purchased Camelot UK's existing operations in February 2023. This transaction was executed to guarantee that Allwyn would assume control of the National Lottery by February 2024, aligning with the competition's deadline. The court completely dismissed this argument, with Justice Smith finding the alleged failings had “no causal relevance to the Process Claim” and thus could not have influenced the competition's result. She reiterated that TNLC’s application “was not included in the final ranking of applicants” because it did not satisfy mandatory criteria. Credit: Nando Machado / Shuttrerstock Significantly, Justice Smith's ruling found that the board largely adhered to the tender's mandate, which focused on selecting a winner based on the “emphasis on delivering returns to good causes while maintaining high standards of player protection and propriety”. The court was informed that the process was designed to guarantee “a fair and transparent competition, in which all interested parties are on an equal footing,” with integrated oversight mechanisms and independent advisers. This decision follows a ruling six weeks prior by the Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT), which dismissed Desmond's allegations that Camelot UK had once received an unlawful £70m marketing subsidy from the Gambling Commission. Commission praises milestone decision All accusations brought by TNLC against the Gambling Commission have now been entirely rejected by the High Court. In a statement, the Commission described the lawsuit as a significant milestone in the National Lottery's history. “The judgment gives resounding support to Good Causes by enabling Allwyn, with oversight from the Commission, to continue with their plans of investment in the National Lottery without further distraction,” the regulator's statement read. The Commission further stated that the ruling demonstrates its integrity throughout the granting of the Fourth National Lottery Licence and that none of the disputed licence modifications violated procurement rules. “Our priority remains to continue regulating The National Lottery for the benefit of participants and Good Causes.” In a statement provided to SBC, Allwyn echoed the High Court's position that: “The Gambling Commission ran a fair and lawful licence competition, properly awarding the Fourth National Lottery Licence to Allwyn.” Credit: HochZwei Photography Allwyn also lauded the decision as a 'clear and comprehensive judgment' that supports its role as the steward of the National Lottery, a contract it will maintain until 2034. “This provides clarity and legal certainty, and our focus now is on delivering for players and increasing funding for good causes,” its statement continued. “That means moving faster on innovation such as New Lotto and Powerball, which we announced earlier this week. “It also draws a line under a long-running series of allegations about the integrity of the competition process, many of which were withdrawn during the proceedings, with the remainder rejected by the court.” This article is provided by a third-party. 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(AsiaGameHub) -   Betable has demonstrated its technological capabilities by introducing three new sportsbook brands to the UK market during the first half of 2026. The company has managed the UK debut of the three brands—Ivy Bet, RightBet, and Bet442—which now compete among other sportsbooks licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (GC). In these launches, Ivy Bet operates as the new sportsbook division of Ivy Casino, and RightBet arrives as a fresh challenger brand. Separately, Bet442 has transferred its sportsbook operations to the Betable platform to improve performance and broaden its services. This rollout includes two entirely new brands: Ivy Bet, the sportsbook extension of Ivy Casino, and the newcomer RightBet. It also underscores Betable's expanding function in providing both new and existing operators with scalable, regulation-compliant sportsbook infrastructure. This deployment of multiple brands represents a strategic achievement for Betable as it works to cement its status as an essential technology and compliance partner within the UK's intensely competitive betting sector. Betable states that these collaborations highlight the robustness of its platform in scaling operations in the UK's iGaming and sportsbook industry—widely considered one of the world's most fiercely competitive regulated markets. The UK gambling industry entered a new fiscal period on 1 April, with Remote Gaming Duty (RGD) fixed at 40%, leading to stricter cost management and operational adjustments for operators. Additional pressure is anticipated, as the tax on remote betting (excluding horse racing) is due to rise from 15% to 25% starting 1 April 2027. In this context, Betable asserts that its platform will supply the technical efficiencies and regulatory assistance necessary for challenger brands to compete successfully in the UK. Charlie Noble, Chief Operating Officer at Betable, commented: “The simultaneous launch of several sportsbook brands on our platform showcases the adaptability and scalability of our technology. “The UK continues to be one of the globe's most competitive and strictly regulated betting environments, and we are honored to back brands such as Bet442, Ivy Bet, and RightBet as they build and grow their market position.” These launches point to a rising need among operators for adaptable sportsbook technology that can facilitate quicker market entry, smooth transitions, and compliant expansion in regulated markets like the UK. Mark Good, representing Ivy Bet, stated: “Introducing Ivy Bet is a logical next step after the achievement and swift expansion of Ivy Casino in the UK. “Broadening the Ivy brand into sports betting opens up fresh possibilities for players who like both casino and sports wagering. Betable's platform offers the regulated foundation needed to realize this goal.” 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) -   B2B technology provider mkodo is celebrating its 25th year with a change in leadership. Co-Founder Stuart Godfree is stepping down from the position of Managing Director, with David da Silva taking over the role with immediate effect. Godfree has been instrumental in the firm's growth, steering it from an initial emphasis on mobile innovation to its current status as an international technology partner for operators such as the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC), the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG), and Superbet. This shift in leadership occurs during a period of major change in the iGaming and lottery industries, where operators are contending with increased costs and more stringent regulations. “Achieving 25 years is a significant and proud achievement for mkodo,” stated Godfree. “The company is on solid footing, with established technology, enduring partnerships, and a superb team. “Under David's guidance, mkodo will maintain its innovative drive while keeping a sharp focus on reliability, compliance, and player experience in the globe's most strictly regulated markets.” New mkodo Managing Director arrives with sector expertise The incoming Managing Director, da Silva, offers extensive experience in product development and commercial strategy within regulated environments. His hiring indicates a reinforced commitment by the London-based company to assist operators in harmonizing user experience with intricate compliance demands. His career history includes serving as Commercial Director at competing B2B suppliers Nektan PLC and Cashbet. He also held the post of Chief Operating Officer at the Dublin FinTech company Symphony FS briefly in 2018. From 2019 to 2024, he was the Chief Executive Officer at the odds comparison platform easyodds.com and continues to act as a Director at the consultancy headbaker. He comes to mkodo following his co-founding of the non-profit SoGood Partners in 2023, where he also held the position of Chief Marketing Officer. “Fundamentally, iGaming is an entertainment offering, yet it now functions under rigorous regulatory oversight,” said da Silva. “The operators that will thrive moving forward are those capable of providing both—frictionless, captivating experiences and strong, automated compliance.” Moving forward, da Silva will concentrate on growing mkodo's core product portfolio and aiding operators as additional regulated markets open. “At its heart, iGaming is an entertainment product, but one that now functions under intense regulatory scrutiny,” he elaborated. “The operators that will prosper in the coming era are those that can offer both—seamless, engaging experiences and sturdy, automated compliance. Striking that balance will separate the winners. “Markets such as Brazil and regions in North America, most recently Alberta, Canada, demonstrate the rapid pace of regulatory evolution. “This presents both opportunity and complexity. Our mission is to empower operators to grow with assurance—providing experiences that players enjoy, while upholding the most stringent compliance standards operationally.” 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) -   Soft2Bet founder and CEO Uri Poliavich has announced that the firm has begun 2026 with significant momentum, driven by the launch of new brands, fresh sponsorships, and robust performance in international markets. Image: Soft2Bet Speaking to employees, partners, and industry journalists during a Q1 town hall, Poliavich compared the company’s progress to Formula One, stating that the groundwork laid in the first quarter will help them navigate the challenges ahead this year. “Ayrton Senna was one of the most remarkable figures in Formula One history,” he noted. “He would walk the track before every race to identify every potential opportunity. We adopted the same strategy in Q1, preparing ourselves for Q2 and the remainder of the year.” New Brand Launches from Soft2Bet The first quarter was a highly active period for Soft2Bet, which introduced five new brands to its portfolio. Focusing on regions where it has previously seen success, the company launched these new brands in Denmark, Romania, and Sweden. In Sweden, the Viking-themed brand Lodur—utilizing Soft2Bet’s MEGA gamification technology—was introduced, with Poliavich noting encouraging early data. In Denmark, the company strengthened its presence in one of Europe’s most established markets by launching three brands: Betinia, Bet Toro, and Quick Casino. Additionally, Soft2Bet debuted Zinx in Romania, a new platform for sports betting and casino gaming that features a cartoon-style character. Leading Market Performances Although Poliavich did not provide exact financial data, he identified the top-performing regions. Four markets occupied the top three positions in the company's global rankings. Denmark secured the third spot, supported by brand awareness campaigns through CampoBet and Betinia’s sponsorships of national football leagues. Tied for third were Greece and Sweden—both recognized as major European markets, despite the regulatory complexities found in the Swedish landscape. In what the founder described as a "surprising" result, Mexico emerged as Soft2Bet’s highest-performing market during the first quarter. “We entered the Mexican market with thorough preparation, which is why it exceeded our internal projections this quarter,” he remarked. Expanded Sponsorship Portfolio Alongside the brand launches, Soft2Bet finalized four new sponsorship deals in Q1 to increase brand visibility among new audiences. In addition to the Danish football league partnerships for Betinia and CampoBet, the company gained traction in Canada through deals with Rock League Curling and the Oshawa FireWolves. Furthermore, the company extended its partnership with FC Cluj in Romania for another season. Poliavich commented: “We value their competitive spirit and dedication. Despite not being from Romania's largest city, the results from Cluj are impressive. We aim to adopt their values and integrate them into our player experience.” Future Outlook Despite the strong start, Poliavich emphasized that Soft2Bet remains focused on growth. The company anticipates a 20% increase in GGR for the next quarter, with cost-saving measures expected to drive a 29% rise in EBITDA. The company is also looking forward to the World Cup this summer, which will be held in the US, Mexico, and Canada—three territories where Soft2Bet maintains a significant presence. To align with the tournament, the firm has introduced MEGA 11, a football management gamification tool, and MEGA Shoot, a player-versus-player tournament mechanic designed for the World Cup period. 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 new study that reveals some UK gamblers either don’t fully understand the terms of certain welcome bonuses or directly view them as “deceptive,” one of the study’s co-authors tells SBC News his thoughts on how to make bonuses more aligned with consumer expectations. Jamie Torrance is a psychology lecturer and researcher at Swansea University. He has conducted extensive research on problem gambling; his other work includes studies on public perceptions of gambling in the British Army, how family dynamics shape gambling behaviors, and the delivery of gambling advertising, among other topics. It’s fair to say he’s an authoritative voice in the field of gambling studies. In Torrance’s op-ed for The Conversation, it was highlighted that many respondents in his latest research either saw bonus incentives as “manipulative” or consistently miscalculated the compounded amounts involved. This was sure to draw attention—so SBC News sought to dig deeper into the underlying issues. The study’s premise is straightforward: survey 585 participants who gambled in the past year and present them with a realistic welcome bonus modeled after actual promotions from online gambling platforms. As the research describes it: “Welcome bonus: get 150% up to £150 on your first deposit”. Half the participants viewed the offer in a standard industry format, starting with a £50 deposit for the bonus. The other half saw the same promotion but with a clear note that an additional £750 must be wagered before any winnings can be withdrawn—exactly how a 10x wagering requirement applies to a £50 deposit. “More than 90% of participants underestimated the true cost,” Torrance wrote for The Conversation. “Only around 5% got it right.” “The £500 figure is telling. It is exactly what you would get if you applied the 10-times multiplier to the £50 deposit but ignored the 150% bonus on top. Most people understood part of the calculation but missed the compounding effect.” Clarifying bonus practices When SBC News reached out to understand why this misconception is so widespread, Torrance concluded that the wording of current offers isn’t intuitively understandable. “I think it comes down to the structure of the offers themselves rather than any deficit on the part of bettors. The headline figures (the deposit match and the multiplier) are easy to read, but the interaction between them requires a multi-step calculation that most people don’t intuitively perform. People are grasping part of the offer and missing the compounding effect, and the standard format doesn’t help them bridge that gap. There’s also a motivational element at sign-up: someone keen to start playing is not in the ideal headspace to interrogate terms and conditions.” Until recently, this gap was even wider. Before January, operators could set these multipliers as high as 50 times the bonus amount. However, the Gambling Commission capped them at 10x—a direct result of the Gambling Act Review White Paper, which called for simpler and more transparent promotions. Torrance continued: “There has been real progress [with the White Paper], particularly on the structural side (financial risk checks, online slot stake limits, the statutory levy), and the work on direct marketing and cross-selling is welcome. On bonuses specifically, the January 2026 cap on wagering requirements at 10 times is a meaningful step in the right direction.” However, Torrance notes that capped multipliers are a separate issue from making costs visible to consumers, and more needs to be done in that area. “Our data suggest that even under the new rules, consumers are still significantly misjudging what these offers require of them.” Bonuses have received increased attention lately, especially during and after the Gambling Act review. A key measure from the review’s April 2023 White Paper was a ban on cross-selling bonuses between betting, gaming, and lottery platforms. Still, some feel more can be done to improve bonus practices. An interesting idea Torrance raised in our interview was hypothetical “age-differentiated incentives,” which treat users aged 18–24 differently from older players. Drawing on psychology, he argued that this younger age group is still at a stage where impulsivity, peer influence, and price sensitivity converge—and welcome bonuses could act as an entry point into sustained gambling. “Several jurisdictions, including Australia, Spain, Belgium and Italy, have gone as far as banning inducements to new customers outright, which gives a sense of the range of options on the table internationally. “An age-differentiated approach to inducements is something I think deserves serious consideration, and it’s an area I’m actively researching.” Torrance concluded the interview by putting forward a proposal to the Gambling Commission, which he believes would lead to better-informed players in the future. “I want to be fair here, because the Commission has done substantial work on consumer protection in recent years and the wagering cap itself is a good example of that. The refinement I’d point to is at the point of disclosure. Requiring operators to display a short worked example, in the same prominence as the headline offer, showing what the wagering requirement actually means (or its ’true cost’) would be a welcome change.” 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) -   GG.BET is fully confident that its latest feature will help the brand distinguish itself in the fiercely competitive esports betting market, a company representative told SBC News. The Kyiv-based esports betting technology firm unveiled Popular Bets yesterday, a dedicated section on its website that displays pre-built bets based on trending matches and markets. Betters using the platform can select their preferred combination, which is then automatically added to their betslip. The company believes the feature will help users make faster decisions by seeing which selections are most popular among other platform users. “Popular Bets was created to genuinely improve the betting experience for a broad range of audiences,” GG.BET’s spokesperson told SBC News. “For newer users, this feature removes the barrier of having to independently analyse markets and build bets from scratch — something that can feel challenging on a platform with such a wide selection of sports and esports events as GG.BET.  “For more experienced users, it offers a convenient way to quickly place bets on popular matches without having to complete the full manual selection process.  “In both cases, the recommendation algorithm guarantees that the suggested combinations reflect real activity taking place on the platform. This means users see relevant, up-to-date options based on actual popularity rather than random or template-generated selections.” GG.BET is an esports-focused betting platform, operating in the rapidly growing, highly competitive space alongside a number of other companies — though it also offers full betting solutions for traditional sports. The global esports sector has exploded in value over recent years, and esports betting has grown right alongside it. Various industry studies have placed the global value of the esports betting space in the billions, for example, a 2026 report from ResearchAndMarkets.com estimates the value will fall somewhere between $2.8bn-$3bn. Like other emerging betting markets, esports has drawn inspiration from more established traditional sectors, such as football. The most notable example of this is the adoption of bet builders, a feature offered by providers including GG.BET. Bet builders can now be used on esports titles like League of Legends or Valorant in exactly the same way they are used on traditional competitions like the Premier League or LALIGA. “Popular Bets and Bet Builder address different but complementary user needs,” GG.BET’s spokesperson added. “Bet Builder is designed for users who want full control — the ability to combine multiple markets within a single match and build fully customised bets.  “In contrast, Popular Bets is built for speed and discovery: users receive ready-made combinations for popular matches that can be added to the bet slip in just one click.  “For example, a user may use Popular Bets to quickly join an event and then move on to Bet Builder for deeper customisation of a specific match. In this way, the two tools together accommodate both impulsive and more deliberate betting styles.” The global growth of esports has captured widespread industry attention, and with attention comes increased competition.  Esports betting is offered by nearly every major operator, although some B2C firms that have focused solely on esports, or kept it as their lead product, like Rivalary and Esports Entertainment Group (EEG), have run into difficulties over the years. Nonetheless, the sector is expected to keep growing, and this growth will continue to attract new B2B activity. GG.BET competes in the space alongside a number of other B2B industry leaders, but this competition has not weakened the company’s confidence. “GG.BET’s positioning is unique because the platform combines traditional sports betting and esports at an equally high level — not as an afterthought add-on, but as a core part of the product.  “Popular Bets reflects this approach by generating combinations based on popular markets across both traditional sports and esports. The recommendation algorithm is based on real user behaviour, so the feature continuously evolves according to audience interests rather than remaining static.  “Together with the previously launched Bet Builder, which is also available for both sports and esports, GG.BET is building an ecosystem of features that fits different user interaction scenarios with the product. This is what, in our view, sets the platform apart in a competitive market.” 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.