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(AsiaGameHub) - With less than a month remaining before the South Korean elections, gambling has emerged as a central issue, with candidates exchanging accusations and the President offering commentary on the matter. Earlier this month, election campaigning in South Jeolla Province and Gwangju turned into a verbal battle centered around gambling. During a televised debate, a candidate accused Kim Dae-jung, the incumbent superintendent of the province, of “hanging around near a gambling den” during a business trip. Since then, Kim admitted to visiting a casino at the hotel where he was staying for a work event but denied that he gambled there. His rivals have described his explanation as “illogical.” Meanwhile, Kim’s representatives claim his opponents are conducting a “smear campaign” ahead of the June 3 vote. An election commission building in Gwangju, the largest city in South Jeolla Province. (Image: NZ Tokideul [CC BY-SA 4.0]) South Korean Elections: Casino Allegations Continue As the election approaches, one leading contender has demanded a public investigation. The rival, Lee Jeong-seon, urged Kim to “clarify the allegations” through a “joint fact-finding investigation.” “We call on Kim to step forward and publicly discuss this issue in a debate,” said a spokesperson for Lee Jeong-seon’s campaign, according to the South Korean news outlet News1. “If Kim has nothing to hide, there is no reason to avoid it. If he refuses or evades our request, we will view it as an attempt to conceal the allegations.” Kim’s camp responded with a statement rejecting the claims. “[My rivals] keep portraying me as someone who illegally gambles,” the superintendent said. “As I previously stated, I recall going to a hotel casino, but I did not engage in illegal gambling. In fact, I can’t even play go-stop [a popular low-stakes Korean card game].” Kim’s spokespeople asked his opponents to stop “repeatedly raising doubts” and instead “present evidence.” “If they cannot provide any proof, they should issue an apology,” said Kim. Gambling Convicts Named Controversies involving gambling are not limited to the race for education superintendent in South Jeolla Province and Gwangju. In other parts of the country, media outlets have been investigating reports revealing that numerous convicted individuals are running for office on June 3—including several with histories of habitual gambling. While the original report did not name any specific candidates, MBC, South Korea’s national broadcaster, has identified many of them in a recent segment. Among those named is Choi Eun-sik, a candidate for the Okcheon County Council and a member of the main opposition People Power Party. Choi is reportedly convicted of two gambling offenses, along with charges related to drunk driving, operating a vehicle without a license, and assault. Meanwhile, the People Power Party’s Chungju City Council candidate, Shim Jae-ik, is said to have seven criminal convictions, including one for gambling. Chungju City Hall, located in Chungju, South Korea. (Image: hyolee2 [CC BY-SA 4.0]) Another candidate named with a prior gambling conviction is the People Power Party nominee Lee Jae-myung in Jincheon. President Issues Another Gambling Warning Although President Lee Jae-myung avoided directly commenting on candidates’ gambling-related convictions or casino allegations, he made gambling-related remarks in a recent social media post. “Illegal lending and gambling are signs of national decline,” the President wrote, as reported by the South Korean newspaper Seoul Kyungjae. The comments echo the President’s earlier warnings from late last year, when he cautioned that increased gambling could “lead to the downfall” of the nation. Politicians in South Korea must carefully navigate issues surrounding gambling regulation. The country generates substantial tax revenue from casinos, particularly in tourist destinations like Jeju Island. Jeju-based casino operator Lotte Tour Development recently reported record quarterly earnings amid growing foreign tourism on the island. 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) - Cyprus-based gaming technology company GR8 Tech has unveiled a new brand identity, updating its visual styling to better reflect its commitment to innovation and ambition. From now on, the company will operate under the name GR8_TECH, emphasizing that its systems have also been modernized to align with how contemporary technology brands approach branding. The new identity draws inspiration from coding-inspired visual language, incorporating a motion-first philosophy and structures rooted in digital design principles. Originally founded in Ukraine and currently headquartered in Limassol, Cyprus, GR8_TECH supplies a range of betting and gaming solutions to the global industry, including a sportsbook platform and cryptocurrency services. “This rebranding was never about change for its own sake,” stated Iryna Ilchanka, Creative Lead at GR8_TECH. “GR8_TECH already possessed strong recognition and character. Our objective was to refine it—to develop a system that feels more aligned with the technological capabilities and ambitions of the company moving forward.” Branding and marketing have played a central role in GR8_TECH’s development since its inception in 2023, originally established as Parimatch Tech—the B2B technology arm supporting Parimatch, the multinational sportsbook based in Ukraine. In 2023, Parimatch Tech transitioned to become GR8 Tech, which has since evolved into GR8_TECH. Since rebranding, the company has invested significantly in building a powerful brand presence, collaborating with prominent figures such as Ukrainian world heavyweight boxing champion Oleksandyr Usyk, as well as Premier League, LaLiga, Serie A, and Champions League-winning manager José Mourinho. The implementation of GR8_TECH’s latest brand identity follows a series of product improvements throughout the year, particularly centered around preparations for the World Cup. The firm has rolled out upgrades to both its sportsbook and casino platforms ahead of the tournament. “We didn’t aim to produce a static brand guide,” added Ilchanka. “Instead, we sought to create a dynamic framework that evolves continuously alongside the business.” 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) - Gambling firms are pouring significant funds into political campaigns in Alabama in an effort to ease the state’s stringent anti-gambling regulations. However, their spending methods are causing confusion and frustration among lawmakers. DraftKings, FanDuel, and Fanatics have channeled no less than $42 million into super PACs that fund political campaigns nationwide. A substantial share of these funds has been directed to the American Conservative Fund, which is utilizing the money to distribute a wave of mailers throughout Alabama. Candidate Disavows Link to Godfather-Themed Campaign One candidate who appears to be supported by the PAC is Senator Garlan Gudger. Alabama residents might now view him as the Godfather due to a flyer from the American Conservative Fund. American Conservative Fund flyer featuring Garlan Gudger Gudger, though, states he had not seen the flyer prior to its distribution in mailboxes across the state. “This is from a super PAC from up north,” Gudger stated in a video shared on Facebook. “We have nothing to do with them and just wanted everyone to know that, as there are many questions circulating online.” Gudger was uncertain whether the campaign was an endorsement or intended to harm his electoral prospects. He noted that he saw the Godfather portrayal as a “negative spin, aimed more at damaging me than anything else in this race.” Last year, the Senate leader halted discussions about legalizing gambling in Alabama, arguing it was a distraction for lawmakers because of a lack of agreement. “Whenever you’re having a discussion, once this topic arises, everyone begins to use what they need or want from this specific bill to influence other issues they’re addressing,” Gudger told an interviewer. “And that’s really not right.” Are Direct Mail Services Winning Over Voters? A portion of the American Conservative Fund’s funds goes to Leading Pointe Strategy, a Georgia-based organization established by Tom Willis. Willis also holds the position of Senior Vice President at Arena Wins, which bills itself as “The Most Trusted Republican Advertising Agency in America.” The company’s website highlights its innovative mail design, which it asserts has “helped Republicans win hearts and minds in all 50 states.” Every flyer—such as the one depicting Gudger as the Godfather—includes a disclaimer that it is not approved by the candidate. It’s unknown if the group created the Gudger flyer, which only notes it was funded by the American Conservative Fund. Funding Campaigns on Both Political Sides Although most of Win for America’s funds are directed to the American Conservative Fund (which says it supports Republicans), some money is also allocated to American Future, a super PAC launched by DraftKings in 2023. American Future’s website states that it “is committed to electing strong, bold Democrats to state legislatures nationwide who will advocate for our future.” Funds from the gambling companies pass through the PACs to different strategy groups. It’s uncertain if these groups know that the money supporting them is also funding competing strategy groups that promote Republican candidates. Gaming America mapped out the flow of funds from the three major betting companies, illustrating which groups are receiving the money. Beyond Alabama, a significant portion of the funds is also financing political campaigns in Pennsylvania, Texas, and Georgia. Lawmakers Demand Action on Gambling Interest Groups A separate group of Alabama lawmakers has demanded “immediate action and greater public scrutiny regarding serious campaign finance concerns tied to gambling interests and political action committees active in Alabama.” Nine organizations co-signed a letter sent to Attorney General Steve Marshall and Secretary of State Wes Allan. The letter doesn’t directly name gambling groups as a concern, but references “allegations involving large financial contributions, intricate funding structures, and possible non-compliance with Alabama’s campaign finance disclosure rules.” Coalition leaders clarified their concerns in a press release, saying, “We know from other states that gambling money often brings corruption, undue political influence, and weakened public trust.” “The Alabama Constitution prohibits games of chance, yet we are witnessing unprecedented amounts of gambling-related money flowing into legislative races. Citizens should be deeply concerned about what this could mean for the future of our state.” Alabama has taken steps against companies trying to offer gambling services in the state. Sweepstakes casino operators are currently facing 21 lawsuits in Alabama, as residents seek to recoup losses incurred on these platforms. Although many Alabamians hold strong anti-gambling opinions, the coalition emphasized that “regardless of where citizens stand on specific gambling policy, all Alabamians should agree that lawlessness should not be tolerated; public transparency and compliance with campaign finance laws are essential to a free and fair election process.” Even when residents can trace the source of the funds, it’s still unclear why gambling companies are supporting both political sides and running campaigns that candidates are disavowing. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - The National Football League (NFL) has urged the commodities regulator to require prediction market providers to prohibit contracts on events that are “easily manipulable” by a single individual. Examples include first pass and field goal completion. The league submitted its request in a letter to the Commodities and Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Chairman Michael Selig, as reported by CNBC. Written by Brendon Plack, the NFL’s head of government affairs and public policy, the letter also calls for the regulator to raise the legal betting age from 18 to 21 and ban margin trading. NFL’s Regulatory Requests Sports event contracts that are “not fully collateralized” risk “exacerbating addictive behavior and increasing loss exposure,” according to Plack. The league wants the CFTC to mandate that providers block contracts on events that are “knowable in advance.” Examples of such events include the outcome of the first play of a game. Plack also requested that Selig ban “inherently objectionable” contracts involving events like player injuries. The NFL raised several concerns about potential match-fixing and insider trading. The league seeks a special certification process from the regulator for individual player performance-related prediction contracts. Key Points of Contention The NFL wants prediction markets to follow many of the standards, rules, and guidelines applied to traditional sports betting operations. This stance may provoke disagreement with Selig, who has consistently maintained that prediction market platforms and sportsbooks are “two separate things.” “What you’re seeing is markets versus entertainment… They are different models,” Selig told Axios earlier this month. “The conventional sportsbooks and casinos are entertainment,” he added. Selig stated that the CFTC will regulate prediction markets “as financial markets, not as entertainment.” Throughout the letter, Plack reportedly cited multiple references to state-level gambling regulations. The mention of states could be contentious, as the CFTC is currently engaged in legal disputes with states that have tried to take control of regulating prediction markets. Spectators watch an NFL game at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. (Image: Myron Mott) While the issue involving states may be sensitive, the NFL and Selig may find common ground on concerns about insider trading. Earlier this month, the CFTC announced it was consulting with “all professional sports leagues” on measures to prevent insider trading. In his letter, Plack recommended that the National Futures Association—the U.S. derivatives regulator—establish data-sharing agreements with state gaming regulatory bodies. This, said the NFL executive, could strengthen enforcement tools to restrict certain individuals from participating in prediction markets. Such individuals should include NFL league employees, according to Plack. The CFTC recently finalized a memorandum of understanding with MLB, aiming to identify suspicious trading activity on prediction market 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) - SBC Summit Americas 2026 will welcome David Edelman, former Aetna CMO and Harvard Business School faculty member, and a bestselling author, for an exclusive keynote exploring how AI is transforming the way businesses understand, reach, and engage their customers. From pioneering concepts such as the ‘Customer Decision Journey’ and ‘Segment-of-One Marketing’ to advising Fortune 500 companies, Edelman has built a distinguished career shaping how businesses approach marketing, AI, and customer engagement. The keynote will take place on Thursday, June 11 (10:40–11:00) as part of the ‘Leaders’ track. Titled Unlocking AI to Drive Growth, the session will explore how gaming businesses can move beyond using AI as an operational tool and instead leverage it as a driver of commercial advantage. Edelman will examine how brands can transform both digital and physical customer journeys through personalisation and automation at scale, while balancing engagement, responsibility, and trust. Drawing on global cross-sector examples, he will also introduce a practical CEO-level framework for turning AI into a sustainable growth engine. “David brings a level of experience that very few speakers can match, particularly when it comes to connecting AI with real marketing strategy. This is exactly the kind of insight our audience is looking for right now,” said Rasmus Sojmark, CEO and Founder of SBC. Over more than four decades, Edelman has built a strong voice across marketing and technology, earning recognition from Forbes as one of the “Most Influential CMOs in the World” across multiple years and a place in Adweek’s ‘AI Trailblazers Power 100’ in 2025. He also has over 1.1 million followers on LinkedIn. Edelman began his career in 1986 at Boston Consulting Group (BCG), working with customer data and laying the foundation for his widely recognised 1989 article, ‘Segment-of-One Marketing’, which introduced the idea of tailoring marketing to individual customers at scale. He later co-developed BCG’s e-commerce practice before joining Digitas in 1999, where he focused on data-driven digital experiences through CRM and analytics. In 2008, he moved to McKinsey & Company, where he built and led the global Digital Marketing practice. During this time, he introduced the ‘Customer Decision Journey’ concept in a landmark Harvard Business Review cover story, redefining how businesses understand and influence the path from initial awareness to purchase and loyalty. Commenting on his appearance, Edelman said, “There’s a misconception that AI can simply be layered onto existing marketing strategies, when in reality it requires a fundamental rethink. In this session, I’ll look at how businesses can adapt their approach and use AI to deliver more relevant, personalized customer experiences.” In 2016, Edelman moved into corporate leadership as Aetna’s first Chief Marketing Officer, where he led a major digital and brand transformation. He upgraded marketing capabilities, repositioned the brand as a trusted health partner, and built a comprehensive customer experience program, while also contributing to the company’s merger with CVS. Since leaving Aetna in 2020, Edelman has focused on advisory work through Edelman Advisory Services, working with CEOs and CMOs to use AI more effectively in marketing. His work explores team structure, better use of data, and how to deliver more relevant customer experiences while maintaining a human touch and building trust. Alongside his advisory work, Edelman contributed to the next generation of business leaders as a faculty member at Harvard Business School. He is also a recognised author, having co-written Personalized: Customer Strategy in the Age of AI, a USA Today bestseller that explores how businesses can use AI and data to deliver more relevant customer experiences. Edelman’s appearance forms part of SBC Summit Americas’ extensive conference program, which will feature 250 expert speakers across six stages, covering key topics such as leadership, sports betting and casino, payments and technology, affiliation, regulation, and player protection. These sessions sit within the event’s ‘Knowledge Vault’, designed to deliver actionable insights for industry professionals. Want to attend SBC Summit Americas? Operators and affiliates can apply for a complimentary VIP Pass, granting full access to the event, including conference sessions, the exhibition floor, and premium networking opportunities. All other attendees can choose from a range of ticket options tailored to different goals and budgets, from expo-only access to full VIP experiences. Secure your pass and explore your options 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) - The NCAA has confirmed that former Abilene Christian men's basketball student-athlete Airion Simmons has been banned for life. Simmons allegedly agreed to fix at least two games while playing for the college in March 2024. In a press release, the NCAA revealed that the now 25-year-old accepted a $3,500 bribe to "play bad" in a game against Tarleton State. He allegedly recruited other players to ensure Abilene Christian did not win. The NCAA says he received the cash in a Dallas parking lot but did not pay the teammates with whom he conspired. Simmons Named in Federal Indictment Simmons was one of several college basketball players named in a federal indictment in January. He first agreed to fix a game on March 19 against Texas A&M. However, despite his efforts to underperform, the team won. The scheme was allegedly led by former Chicago Bulls player Antonio Blakeney, Marves Fairley, and Shane Hennen. Both Fairley and Hennen have also been named in the NBA betting scandal that includes Chauncey Billups, Damon Jones, and Terry Rozier. The bettors wagered $82,000 on Texas A&M to beat Abilene Christian, according to the indictment. After the bets were lost, the fixers said that they should have recruited more players. Simmons, along with another unnamed player, agreed to fix the next game against Tarleton State. Bettors wagered $40,000 on Tarleton State to cover first- and full-game point spreads. In this instance, the bets won, with Simmons scoring zero points. Gamblers Continue to Post Picks Online Despite being named in two federal indictments for their attempts to fix NBA and NCAA basketball matches, both Fairley and Hennen continue to post gambling tips online. On his Instagram account, Hennen advertises his tipping service, which charges for gambling picks. Shane Hennen promotes his NBA tips on Instagram @sugarshanewins He has not publicly posted any picks recently, but in October last year boasted of a 12-2 winning record from his previous 14 tips. During February and March 2024, prosecutors claim Hennen and his co-conspirators attempted to fix at least 21 games. Of these, the bettors won 13 times but lost money on the other eight matches. Fellow Tipster Promotes Must-Win Picks In addition to Hennen, Fairley continues to promote picks for his subscription service, Vezino Locks. He sells daily "locks" for $60 and recently claimed an 11-4 winning record. Marves Fairley promotes his tipping service on Instagram @vezino_locks As part of the NCAA’s investigation, Simmons said he had contact with two known bettors. The NCAA does not say whether they are Hennen or Fairley. Simmons is facing charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bribery in sporting contests. If convicted, he faces up to 25 years in federal prison. 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) - DraftKings co-founder Matt Kalish sharply criticized Kalshi in a series of social media posts on X. In his rant, he dismissed the prediction market platform as a niche offering and questioned whether it could ever compete with major sportsbooks. Kalish left DraftKings earlier this year after co-founding the company alongside CEO Jason Robins and President Paul Liberman. “I’m retired from operating in gambling, just posting content because I know ball and can say s*** way more clearly than ppl have been willing to do,” he wrote in a thread on X. Casual Users Get Crushed by Pros on Kalshi One key criticism Kalish directed at the operator was its heavy focus on marketing aimed at casual users, whom he claims are “decimated by market-makers and pro gamblers, losing 97% in sports markets.” DraftKings has faced similar allegations that it exploits gamblers through aggressive marketing and VIP hosts. The company is currently defending against multiple lawsuits over these practices. The company and rival sportsbook FanDuel have both publicly discussed their interest in using prediction markets as enhanced trading opportunities, positioning themselves as market makers. Kalish acknowledged that “to some I’m the wrong messenger for this.” Still, he wanted to make clear that he views Kalshi as a niche product catering only to those who are already profiting from trading on the exchange. I haven’t heard the 99% of normal mass market sports gamblers who play for fun say they think exchanges are fun or say much other than express confusion. Because the product isn’t there yet.— Matt Kalish (@mattkalish) May 17, 2026 A survey conducted earlier this year found that most bettors prefer DraftKings Sportsbook over Kalshiin states where both legal sports betting and prediction markets are available. Kalshi, however, was preferred over FanDuel and has grown rapidly in popularity since expanding into sports markets. Prediction Markets Still Offer a Subpar Experience Kalish argued that Kalshi’s product remains far from delivering the same experience as a well-developed sportsbook app. “Everyone everywhere needs to chill the f*** out,” Kalish said. “The products or experiences that finally gets anywhere close to a reasonable sports betting experience will be developed over time. For now let’s just keep it a buck, the only people who are hyping these are those making money from it TODAY or scared they made a dumb investment and rationalizing.” He claimed that ordinary users lack understanding of the micro mechanics behind prediction markets and find the overall experience confusing. This creates openings for professionals to exploit casual participants and generate profits. A user responded by citing the UK example of Betfair, which was once seen as a precursor to U.S. prediction markets. But even Betfair failed to break into the casual betting segment, which “wants a fixed price and a big green button, not a limit order book.” Kalish admitted he uses Kalshi himself but pointed out its limitations—including hidden fees and the absence of bonuses and rewards commonly offered by sportsbooks. “For our customers that are in sportsbook jurisdictions, they prefer to still do business with a sportsbook. We’ve done a lot of surveys. We know that we are able to give them promotions and offers, and it’s a more engaging experience overall,” said fellow co-founder Liberman recently. Limited Liquidity Restricts Trading Opportunities One supposed benefit of prediction markets is the ability to trade out and lock in gains as odds shift. However, Kalish noted that limited liquidity often makes this impossible. He shared personal examples where he couldn’t trade out profitably, including one on Brooks Koepka to win the PGA Championship. Although Koepka started strong during the tournament—making a sportsbook bet look favorable—Kalish said he could only exit at a fraction of the original price due to insufficient market depth. The risk is that many companies launching their own platforms may deliberately maintain low liquidity so users spread their wagers across multiple operators. This isn’t an issue at traditional sportsbooks, where the house typically accepts all bets—though it doesn’t always allow traders to cash out mid-game. Sportsbooks Also Limit Winners Other users quickly pointed out that sportsbooks routinely restrict accounts of winning customers. Those attempting arbitrage betting—placing wagers on all possible outcomes to guarantee profit—often find their accounts suddenly limited or closed. Kalish replied that DraftKings still exposes itself to far greater risk than market makers operating on prediction exchanges. “The amount risk management will (wall) street market makers do in an exchange is massive. MM (market-makers) have infinite cash to invest but choose to only make a few billion a month available as exchange liquidity which is why s*** is razor thin and you get 60% breakage on $1000. Meanwhile DK/FD (DraftKings/FanDuel) booked $2.5 trillion of risk last year each (approx) its order of magnitudes more limiting (factors of several hundred times more liquidity in a top sportsbook vs entire exchange market),” Kalish explained. This argument doesn’t fully address concerns about sportsbooks restricting profitable players. Some states have begun cracking down on the practice; Massachusetts now requires operators to inform bettors when limits are applied. As Kalish himself stated, he has now exited the sports betting industry entirely. He now leads a content creator agency. His X thread has garnered over 200,000 views. He concluded his critique of Kalshi with: “Please god everyone put your megaphones the f*** away and build a real mainstream appeal product and until then shut the f*** up you are niche. Thank you.” 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 Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) has informed SBC News that it feels it has ‘little choice’ but to consider pursuing a legal challenge against the full rollout of affordability checks for UK gambling. Financial Risk Assessments (FRAs), the second and most rigorous stage of the Gambling Commission’s affordability check framework, are scheduled to be implemented on Friday 22 May. FRAs will only be activated in cases involving high levels of betting losses—such as instances of binge gambling—and will utilise credit bureau data to evaluate a customer’s financial situation. The BGC, along with numerous other betting and gaming stakeholders—including those within horse racing—has consistently opposed these checks since their initial proposal. This opposition dates back to the early phases of the 2005 Gambling Act review, which took place between 2020 and 2023. “We urge the Gambling Commission to thoroughly review these proposals before proceeding any further,” a BGC spokesperson told SBC News this morning. “Evidence from the Commission’s own pilot demonstrates that these Financial Risk Assessments are far from frictionless, exhibiting significant inconsistencies in the data and posing a real risk that large numbers of customers will face intrusive financial inquiries.” The industry’s reservations regarding affordability checks have been widely reported. During the Gambling Act review, repeated estimates suggested a potential annual financial impact on horse racing exceeding £60 million, for example. In recent years, the focus of concern has shifted toward the possibility that customers may be driven away from the regulated market and into the unregulated sector—a market that, according to Gamstop, some 8% of self-excluded British gamblers admit to using. “This is yet another clear example of the lanyard class opposing the working class. It must come to an end,” an industry source told SBC News. Prepare for legal action… The BGC is now escalating its campaign against affordability checks to a new level. A letter authored by Grainne Hurst, Chief Executive Officer of the BGC, and obtained by the Racing Post, clearly states that the trade body regards affordability checks as “disproportionate and potentially subject to legal challenge.” In her letter, Hurst reaffirmed the BGC’s position that the checks will suffer from ‘serious shortcomings’ in accuracy, consistency, and data relevance, and will encounter ‘fundamental implementation challenges’ as more customers are required to provide documentation. FRAs were one of two major measures proposed by the Commission to address the issue of gambling affordability. The Gambling Act review White Paper published in April 2023 explicitly identified affordability as a central concern requiring government intervention. In addition to the stricter FRAs, there will also be Financial Vulnerability Checks, triggered whenever a customer deposits over £150 within a rolling 30-day period. The original threshold was set at £500, but this was reduced to £150 following the Commission’s six-month consultation on the checks last year. The Commission has consistently defended its approach to affordability checks, estimating that only 3% of gamblers will be impacted by the lighter Vulnerability Checks and an even smaller proportion affected by the more comprehensive FRAs. The BGC remains unconvinced by these figures. According to the trade body, the number of people affected by Vulnerability Checks could actually be closer to 5%, rising to 10% among monthly bettors and up to 20% if customers with an annual net spend of £200 are excluded. “These measures must function effectively for all customers, but current evidence indicates that the proposals are not fit for purpose and risk pushing individuals out of the regulated market and into the expanding illegal online black market, where no protections or safeguards exist,” the BGC spokesperson told SBC News. “Given the serious concerns raised by operators, there is a genuine risk that the industry may ultimately be left with little option but to contemplate legal action if these proposals are implemented without further examination.” Commission: any checks are ‘carefully considered’ The Gambling Commission has maintained for some time that its affordability check solution will be designed to minimise disruption for customers, allowing the vast majority to continue placing bets—including weekly accumulators—without unnecessary intrusion. The regulator’s strategy relies heavily on Open Banking, which enables data sharing between a customer’s bank and the relevant betting operator to assess their financial status at the point of transaction. When questioned about the potential legal action by the BGC, a Gambling Commission spokesperson provided SBC News with the following statement: “We reiterate that we are continuing to refine financial risk assessments, with one key objective being the removal of unnecessary friction for consumers. If introduced, the checks would apply only to a small subset of the highest-spending accounts and would remain frictionless for the vast majority of those assessed. “No final decisions have yet been made, and we will shortly present our recommendations to the Board regarding next steps. We continue to engage regularly with industry representatives and other stakeholders as the pilot progresses, and will provide further updates as this work advances. “Any future implementation would be carefully evaluated, based on evidence, and introduced in a measured and proportionate manner.” For some gamblers, confusion over terminology may pose a challenge. Take Open Banking, for instance—the concept and mechanics of how it operates are not widely understood. When many members of the general public hear ‘open banking,’ they may mistakenly believe it means their personal details and documents are fully accessible to everyone, which is not the case. However, another persistent obstacle facing industry lobbyists is inevitably resistance from advocates of gambling reform. These groups have long argued that robust affordability measures are essential to prevent individuals from wagering beyond their means. Despite the best efforts of the racing and betting industries during the Gambling Act review, the government chose to prioritise the views expressed by reform advocates. The possibility of legal action by the BGC could buy additional time, and the Commission’s own language suggests it is not entirely committed to enforcing these solutions. Nevertheless, the situation may eventually reach a point where the industry must confront the consequences. 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) - Betano has been named an ‘official tournament supporter’ of the 2026 FIFA World Cup across Europe and South America, strengthening its established relationship with FIFA ahead of the sport’s premier global event. The tournament is scheduled to take place from 11 June to 19 July 2026 in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, marking the first FIFA World Cup to include 48 national teams. This partnership represents the third collaboration between FIFA and Betano’s parent company, Kaizen Gaming. Kaizen Gaming first partnered with FIFA during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where Betano served as an official regional supporter for Europe—becoming the first sports betting operator to collaborate with FIFA. Last summer, the brand became an official partner of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. “We are delighted to welcome Betano among the Tournament Supporters of the FIFA World Cup 2026,” said FIFA’s Chief Business Officer, Romy Gai. “Since our first partnership with Betano four years ago, we have observed a strong commitment to sporting integrity, deepening fans’ connection to the game and exploring innovative ways to engage them. “These shared values reinforce our confidence in having such a powerful ally as we prepare to unite the world through football once again in North America and beyond.” Betano expands its presence further This agreement follows recent announcements that Betano has become an official regional sponsor of the Argentina national football team—the reigning World Cup champions. Betano maintains a significant footprint in South America, holding sponsorship deals with top clubs such as Flamengo, Atletico Mineiro, Fluminense, and River Plate. It is also recognized as the most downloaded sports app in Brazil, according to Sensor Tower’s 2026 State of Mobile Report. In addition, Betano holds the naming rights to Brazil’s top-tier football league, the Brasileirão, and extended its operations into Africa earlier this year by launching in Ghana. As part of the new partnership, the company will roll out a range of digital and physical fan engagement initiatives throughout Europe and South America during the tournament. George Daskalakis, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Kaizen Gaming, commented: “Partnering with FIFA for the third time marks a proud milestone for Kaizen Gaming and reflects our continued global growth. “The FIFA World Cup 2026 represents the ultimate convergence of sport and entertainment, reaching billions worldwide. For us, it provides the ideal platform to position Betano as the most trusted global brand for responsible online sports betting. “Our priority now is to deliver an exciting, cutting-edge, and secure experience for fans across the entire tournament.” 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) - It is deadline day for evoke and Bally’s Intralot, with the latter required to submit a formal offer for the struggling LSE-listed gambling business by 5:00pm GMT this evening. On 20 April, evoke—which owns brands including William Hill, 888, and Mr Green—announced it was in talks with Bally’s Intralot about an offer of 50p per share for its business, valuing the company at approximately £225 million. Since then, little official information has emerged regarding the deal. Mark Summerfield, Chair of evoke’s board, recently stated that “discussions remain ongoing”. However, there has been significant activity from both parties on other aspects of the potential acquisition, alongside extensive media coverage. On 28 April, just over a week after evoke publicly addressed the speculation, it postponed the release of its FY 2025 results—already scheduled later than those of many of its peers in the gambling sector. The results were eventually published on 30 April and further unsettled investors. The widely-discussed debt situation Debt remains a central issue in this acquisition story, having risen further within the William Hill-owned group to reach £1.9 billion. While revenue increased by 2% year-over-year to £1.78 billion (from £1.75 billion), and EBITDA surged 43%, rising from £211.4 million to £301.3 million, debt is expected to be a major factor in any potential takeover bid. This concern is amplified by Bally’s Intralot’s own substantial debt burden—reportedly around £1.51 billion—meaning the combined entity would assume nearly £3.5 billion in total debt. Additionally, evoke released its 2025 Annual Reports and Accounts, confirming it must demonstrate “a sustainable and materially improved level of profitability and cash generation” before 2028—the year two key loans worth £769 million mature. Most developments from evoke have carried negative connotations, further compounded by recent media attention surrounding a William Hill jackpot malfunction. In contrast, Bally’s Intralot has made steady progress. In April, the group secured a new lottery contract in Chile, and its Australian subsidiary, Intralot Gaming Services (IGS), was awarded a 15-year Electronic Gaming Machine (EGM) Monitoring Licence for Victoria, set to take effect on 16 August 2027. evoke’s potential wildcard of a delay As noted earlier, evoke delayed the announcement of its FY 2025 results. It remains uncertain whether it will again postpone a definitive decision on the Bally’s Intralot deal, but this possibility cannot be ruled out. When the discussions were first confirmed, the company stated: “This deadline can be extended with the consent of the company.” Currently, evoke’s share price stands significantly below Bally’s Intralot’s proposed 50p per share offer, trading at around 34p as of 10:00am GMT. This discrepancy may reflect market skepticism about the likelihood of the deal being completed at the stated valuation. Nevertheless, if the deadline is extended, anything could still happen today or in the coming days. The broader gambling industry is closely monitoring developments for updates throughout the day. 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) - Hungary’s new government, led by Péter Magyar of the TISZA (Freedom and Reform Party), will review all state-run organizations, including national lottery and sports betting firm Szerencsejáték Zrt. Last week, Prime Minister Magyar finalized appointments for his senior cabinet to launch “the TISZA transition,” beginning with committee reviews assessing state enterprises, public finances, and political influence following 16 years under Viktor Orbán and the Fidesz administration. In the gambling sector, attention focuses on Szerencsejáték Zrt.’s governance, examining its privileges and economic performance. The state-owned company holds a monopoly over Hungary’s lottery market and dominates a significant share of the country’s retail betting industry. Finance Minister András Kármán accused the state operator of using revenues for “propaganda purposes” rather than transparently returning profits to the state treasury. Kármán pledged “corruption-free and transparent management” of public enterprises and confirmed that special sector taxes introduced during the Orbán era would be gradually phased out. The comments represent the clearest indication yet that the TISZA government plans to reassess how gambling revenues have been managed under Fidesz, particularly regarding state gaming profits, public media funding, and politically aligned sponsorship initiatives. Further pressure may arise from reforms proposed by incoming Culture and Social Relations Minister Zoltán Tarr, who stated the government will also review public media and cultural financing mechanisms indirectly supported by lottery-generated funds. Tarr emphasized the new administration’s intent to restore “credibility and truthfulness” to Hungary’s public institutions after years of political interference. Hungary’s gambling market operates under Act XXXIV of 1991 on Gambling Operations, regulating casinos, sports betting, lotteries, and online gambling. It is overseen by the Supervisory Authority for Regulatory Affairs (SZTFH), led by Dr. Marcell Bíró, which manages licensing, compliance, payment supervision, and blocking illegal operators. Since 2023, Hungary has officially opened its online sports betting market to operators from the European Economic Area, though the framework remains heavily concession-based and tied to state oversight. Market analysts suggest the incoming government could review existing gambling concessions inherited from the Orbán era and consider broader competitive expansion in the online betting sector. The financial scale of the industry underscores its strategic importance. Szerencsejáték Zrt. reported approximately €3.25 billion in revenue in 2024, with over 1.1 million registered players and around €447 million paid in taxes and regulatory contributions. Hungary’s overall gambling market is estimated to exceed $1.7 billion, with online betting recognized as one of Central Europe’s fastest-growing gaming segments. TISZA seeks alignment with EU economic standards While senior TISZA officials have openly criticized Szerencsejáték Zrt. and its ties to the former Fidesz administration, the party has not yet outlined specific details of its gambling reforms. What is clear is that Szerencsejáték Zrt. remains one of Hungary’s most effective tax-generating state enterprises, making abrupt dismantling of its operations unlikely from both political and financial standpoints. The Magyar government may aim to move beyond the cronyism associated with the Orbán era by gradually transforming Hungary into a more competitive and transparent sports betting and online gambling market open to both domestic and international operators—a policy direction consistent with TISZA’s pro-European Union stance. 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) - Police have arrested 83 people in a raid on a suspected gambling den hidden within a Thai coconut plantation. A specialized operations team conducted the operation at a plantation in Ratchaburi Province, where authorities confiscated cash and various gambling-related equipment, according to local media outlet Thairath. Officials stated that the facility was well-established, as evidenced by vendors present on-site who were selling food and drinks to patrons. Ratchaburi is located near the border with Myanmar. In Southeast Asia, many border regions have become notorious for hosting illegal casinos, gambling dens, and voice phishing call centers. Ratchaburi Province, Thailand. (Image: Piith.hant [CC BY-SA 4.0]) Thai Coconut Farm: Police Raid Kam Thua Ring Authorities confirmed that the operators allowed gamblers to place bets on rounds of kam thua, a popular dice game where participants aim to surpass a designated banker. Police from the Ratchaburi Provincial Internal Security Operations Command and Photharam Police Station explained that they initiated the raid following a tip-off from a member of the public. The informant reported that a group of gamblers had been gathering in a clearing in the center of a plantation within the Photharam District. Additional details revealed that this location had been used as an established gambling den for some time, with meetings typically occurring at night. Although police carried out several prior raids without detecting any gambling activity, they returned to the site on the evening of May 8 and discovered over 100 vehicles parked near the entrance to a makeshift gambling den. Police released bodycam footage of the raid. Detectives noted that suspects panicked upon seeing approaching officers. Some reportedly jumped into water-filled irrigation ditches, while others fled into the darkness. In the bodycam footage released by police, officers can be seen assisting several suspects as they climbed out of trenches filled with chest-high water. Eventually, law enforcement apprehended dozens of suspected patrons and operators. However, they admitted that some individuals managed to evade arrest by remaining concealed in dark areas of the coconut groves throughout the night. Investigators seized numerous pieces of gambling paraphernalia, including a large betting table, betting chips, dice, dice shakers, and notebooks used to record scores. The authorities also confiscated multiple makeshift food and drink stalls operated by vendors. A Remote Location All individuals taken into custody were brought to a multi-purpose building at the Photharam District Office complex for questioning. None of the suspects immediately confessed to operating the gambling den. Authorities have since charged all those arrested with organizing and participating in illegal gambling for financial gain. Detectives disclosed that the gang paid rent to the owner of the coconut plantation. They chose this remote location because it featured only one access point—a large gate—which allowed lookouts to control entry and exit, making the area difficult to approach. Earlier this month, police in Bangkok froze and seized assets held in several bank accounts totaling more than 500 million baht, or approximately $15.3 million. Officials indicated that these funds belonged to a money laundering network that supported a well-known online gambling operation. 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 operator of the Shambala Casino in Kaliningrad, Russia, has announced it has received approval for a major expansion that will feature a new eight-story structure and a luxury hotel. The company, also called Shambala, disclosed the results of an independent expert review on the state register of construction projects, as reported by the Russian media outlet ABN 24. Shambala first revealed its expansion plans in 2022. The upcoming development will mark the casino’s “second phase,” according to the operator. The company also runs a casino under the same name in the Primorye gambling zone in Russia’s Far East. The proposed Kaliningrad project includes an eight-story casino building housing a five-star hotel, a spa, multiple restaurants, a banquet hall, and a fitness center. The total area of the new complex is projected to span 21,000 square meters. The initiative has already secured approval from the Kaliningrad architectural and urban planning council. Late in 2024, officials reported that the current casino draws approximately 700 visitors daily, with 60% coming from Kaliningrad and 1% from abroad. The operator and its investors believe the expanded casino and hotel will significantly increase visitor numbers and revenue, especially from major urban centers such as Moscow. Central Kaliningrad. (Image: Aleksander Kaasik [CC BY-SA 3.0]) Kaliningrad Casino Expansion to Finally Begin? The timing of the review is significant. The Kremlin is currently working to accelerate the growth of its rapidly expanding casino industry. Russia already hosts five designated gambling zones, including the Yantarnaya zone in Kaliningrad. However, President Vladimir Putin recently approved the creation of an additional zone in the Altai Republic. This new development will be constructed and financed by Sberbank, the nation’s largest commercial bank. Shambala Kaliningrad has been advocating for expansion since the launch of Russia’s first gambling zones in 2015. Although initial approval was granted in 2023, the operator chose to revise its original plans to include a design that officials described as drawing inspiration from Encore Las Vegas. Several major construction challenges have also surfaced. Koleso, an investor in the project, stated in 2024 that developers had already needed to replace the soil at the site. “The land has proven to be far from ideal,” he said. “We are essentially building on a swamp.” Despite these obstacles, both investors and the operator remain committed to moving forward with the project. The operators highlighted that the Archproject Group, a firm led by Kaliningrad’s former chief architect Alexander Bashin, participated in the expert review. Gamblers at the Shambala Kaliningrad casino. (Image: Ekaterina Pobotaeva/VK) A Single-Story Casino According to Shambala’s financial reports, the company recorded 2025 revenues of $29 million, a 7% increase from the previous year, despite a 1.5% decline in net profits. Casino revenues at Shambala have also seen recent growth, rising more than 6% year-on-year in 2025. Revenue growth is evident across most of Russia’s gambling zones. Last year, Shambala’s Kaliningrad competitor, the Sobranie Casino, reported a 13.4% increase in visitors, reaching 415,000. The zone also features the Magic Crystal slot machine hall. Currently, facilities at Shambala Kaliningrad’s single-story casino remain limited, offering few lodging options and restricted dining choices. An event at the Shambala Kaliningrad casino. (Image: Ekaterina Pobotaeva/VK) “At the moment, we only have a small boutique hotel,” said Koleso CEO Nikita Smolentsev. “Currently, gamblers are choosing between Minsk and Sochi. With the launch of the new phase and the larger hotel, I believe people will begin choosing Kaliningrad. The Kaliningrad region is actually a highly promising market.” The Kremlin’s casino expansion strategy may soon extend beyond physical venues. Gaming authorities have expressed support for the Ministry of Finance’s proposal to legalize online casinos and impose an annual tax rate of 30%. 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’s latest sponsorship agreement with UFC champion Nate Diaz prompted us to examine prominent athletes who have publicly supported gambling companies. Our selection features some of the most renowned figures in professional sports, both current and retired, who have achieved the highest level of success in their careers. Important note: This list is limited to athletes based in North America. LeBron James & DraftKings Sportsbook Partnership began: January 2024 LeBron James, a four-time NBA champion and the all-time leading scorer in league history with 43,440 points, entered into a multi-year contract with DraftKings. Under this arrangement, James focused exclusively on weekly football predictions, with any NBA-related content strictly prohibited. Television and online advertisements featuring James alongside comedian Kevin Hart became increasingly common. In our view, this collaboration produced their most entertaining commercial spot yet. DraftKings has effectively leveraged “The King” as a brand ambassador, making this partnership our top choice. Rob Gronkowski & FanDuel Partnership began: January 2022 Few moments are more memorable than Rob Gronkowski’s “Kick of Destiny” marketing campaigns during Super Bowl 2023 and 2024—though he missed both attempts! This innovative promotion allowed FanDuel users to vote “Yes” or “No” on whether Gronkowski would successfully make the kick, with $10 million in Bonus Bets at stake. Those who voted “No” shared in that prize pool. More recently, FanDuel Casino launched a slot game inspired by Gronkowski titled All Gronk, All Gold, ahead of Super Bowl LVII in February. Despite his difficulties with field goals, Gronkowski has significantly boosted FanDuel’s brand visibility as a high-profile endorser. Giannis Antetokounmpo & Kalshi Partnership began: February 2026 This deal sparked controversy amid ongoing NBA betting scandals. NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo acquired an ownership stake in Kalshi through his company, Ante Inc. Antetokounmpo will appear in commercials and at live events promoting Kalshi. Under NBA rules, players may hold passive stakes of less than 1% in gambling-related businesses. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver clarified why the transaction complied with regulations. “We have a rule—agreed upon collectively with the Players Association—that permits players to make what I’d call de minimis investments in sports betting companies, and we’re applying the same standard to prediction markets,” Silver explained. He continued, “In Giannis’s case, as far as I understand, the investment is much smaller than 1%, so it doesn’t violate the rules.” Wayne Gretzky & BetMGM Partnership began: June 2021 Like LeBron James, Wayne Gretzky won four Stanley Cups and holds the record for most career points (2,857) in NHL history. Similar to Rob Gronkowski, Gretzky also has a custom slot game at BetMGM. Gretzky has starred in numerous commercials for “The King of Sportsbooks,” including a recent ad featuring current Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid. Notably, Gretzky also appeared in BetMGM’s Super Bowl advertisement alongside Tom Brady and actor Vince Vaughn two years ago. Although we considered including Tom Brady, he no longer has a promotional deal with BetMGM following his role as a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders. The NFL prohibits its personnel from endorsing any form of gambling, including sports betting. In a January study, researchers from Towson University and Notre Dame of Maryland University analyzed YouTube comments on gambling advertisements. While comedian Jamie Foxx drew the most criticism for BetMGM, Wayne Gretzky received four negative comments for every positive one. Commenters argued that it was “a bad look for someone who used to represent integrity in sports” to promote gambling on athletic competition. Despite this backlash, the long-standing relationship between BetMGM and “The Great One” continues to endure. 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 significant number of prominent figures from the gambling industry have once again been featured in The Times’ annual Sunday Times Rich List. The 2026 edition, topped this year by Sanjay and Dheeraj Hinduja and family of the Hinduja Group with an estimated net worth of £38bn, reveals that the UK’s 350 richest individuals and families have a combined wealth of £784bn—a 1.4% increase from 2025—equivalent to one-quarter of the UK’s GDP. A familiar name tops betting’s Rich List… Once again, the highest-ranked figure from the gambling sector was the Coates family. Synonymous with Stoke-on-Trent’s bet365, the Coates family—comprising company co-founder Peter and his two children and joint-chief executives Denise and John—dropped one place to 17th in the rankings, with a net worth of £9.73bn. Despite falling one position in the list, the family, which also maintains close ties with Stoke City FC, increased its fortune by £283m over the past year. The bet365 business is reported to be the largest private-sector employer in Stoke-on-Trent, employing more than 5,500 people locally, and has recently expanded into new markets including France and Michigan. Following the Coates on the gambling side of the list was Mark Scheinberg—the Israeli-Canadian entrepreneur who co-founded PokerStars, now owned by Flutter Entertainment. Scheinberg ranked 37th overall, up one place from 2025, but his wealth decreased by £192m, leaving him with a fortune of £4.89bn. Done it again – Betfred brothers on Sunday Times Rich List Not far behind Scheinberg were the billionaire brothers Fred and Peter Done, owners of Betfred. Like the Coates, the Done brothers run a privately-owned family gambling business rooted in the UK—Betfred remains headquartered in Warrington, near their home in Salford. Remarkably, the Done brothers grew their fortune by nearly £700m over the last 12 months, climbing 11 places to 46th on the list with an estimated wealth of £3.61bn. Dairy farmer Lord Grantchester, grandson of the late Sir John Moores, fell eight places to 139th, with his fortune remaining unchanged at £1.2bn. At 75 years old and a former director of Everton FC, Lord Grantchester is part of the family that founded Littlewoods and its football pools business. Although the pools business, which has declined significantly in the 21st century alongside Littlewoods’ retail empire, continues today under the name ‘The Pools’. Business leaders Lord Peter and Lady Fiona Cruddas, founders of CMC Markets, surged 42 places to 142nd, increasing their net worth by £290m to reach £1.16bn. The platform offers spread betting and has secured front-of-shirt sponsorship deals with both Everton FC and Fulham FC, ahead of the upcoming voluntary ban on gambling branding on shirts. Barry and Eddie Hearn, well-known figures in boxing, darts, and snooker, returned to the Sunday Times Rich List at 154th position with a fortune of £1.04bn. Their company, Matchroom, has attracted substantial commercial attention from betting firms. However, the firm has warned that any legislative changes could affect revenues and is therefore seeking to diversify away from the sector. Current Matchroom partnerships with gambling companies include Paddy Power’s sponsorship of the PDC World Championship and Midnite’s involvement with the World Snooker Tour. Horse racing links in the Sunday Times Rich List 2026 Michael Tabor and his family, owners of BetVictor, rose eight places to 191st despite no change in their net worth. The 84-year-old businessman and his family have a total wealth of £800m. Tabor is one of only four racehorse owners to have won both the Epsom Derby and the Kentucky Derby. Other notable horse racing-connected names on the 2026 Sunday Times Rich List include: Georg and Emily von Opel: (74th – worth £2.08bn) heirs to car manufacturer Opel AG; Georg behind the thoroughbred racing and breeding operation Westerberg Patricia Thompson and family: (175th – worth £902m) family behind food manufacturer Hillsdown Holdings; owner of the renowned UK racing Cheveley Park Stud Tony Bloom: (199th – worth £779m) owner and breeder; chairman of Brighton and Hove Albion; founder of Premierbet Robert and William Barnett and family: (218th – worth £715m) owners of Belfast-based W&R Barnett; former elite racehorse owners and breeders Andy Bell: (249th – worth £553m) co-founder of Manchester-headquartered online investment platform AJ Bell; racehorse owner Elsewhere on the list, Ruth Parasol and her family climbed five places to 198th, with a net worth of £780m. Parasol established PartyGaming in 1997, which listed on the London Stock Exchange in 2005 at a then-record valuation of $8.46bn. The business later merged with bwin in 2011 to form bwin.party Digital Entertainment, subsequently acquired by GVC Holdings in 2016. As of 2026, the brand is owned by FTSE 100 company Entain plc, which also operates the Ladbrokes and Coral brands. Will Rosseff, a director at bet365, is the final name from the gambling industry on this year’s Sunday Times Rich List, with his net worth rising by £12m to £591m, placing him 239th. 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 temporary casino will open approximately 80 miles north of Houston, Texas, this summer as part of the development for the state’s inaugural full-scale casino resort. The Alabama-Coushatta Tribe has received federal authorization to construct an Indian gaming facility on off-reservation property located in Leggett, Polk County. Construction on the site is set to begin next month, with a provisional venue scheduled to commence operations later this summer. Casino to Offer a Restricted Selection of Games However, the new casino will not provide a comprehensive range of gaming options due to Texas’s stringent gambling regulations. In June 2023, courts ruled that Texas tribes are permitted to operate Class II games on tribal lands without requiring state approval. Class II gaming excludes roulette, blackjack, and other traditional house-banked casino games. It encompasses only player-vs-player contests, including bingo, poker, and other “non-banked” card games. Slot machines are allowed, but exclusively those where payouts come from wagers placed by other players. Currently, there are three operational tribal casinos in Texas: the Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino in Eagle Pass, the Speaking Rock Casino in El Paso, and the Naskila Casino in Livingston, which is managed by the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe. New Facility Will Replace Naskila Casino The existing Naskila Casino houses 835 electronic bingo machines, features two dining venues, and operates around the clock. The tribe reports that the casino contributes $212 million annually to the local economy and employs 409 individuals with an average annual wage of $50,000. Once the new development becomes fully operational, the current Naskila Casino in Livingston will cease operations. The temporary facility will initially offer 300 electronic gaming machines, though the permanent resort is expected to include significantly more. Details about the complete project remain undisclosed, but it is anticipated to include a hotel, multiple restaurants, an entertainment complex, and an expanded gaming floor. Las Vegas Sands Aims to Launch First Commercial Casino in Texas The opening of the state’s first resort-style casino could serve as a catalyst for introducing commercial gaming venues in Texas. Las Vegas Sands has identified North Texas as its preferred location for launching the company’s initial casino within the state. Currently, Las Vegas Sands does not operate any active casinos in the United States. Nevertheless, the company has invested substantial resources into lobbying efforts to secure regulatory approval for a Texas-based development. Its two primary political action committees—the Texas Sands PAC and the Texas Defense PAC—have collectively donated over $15 million to political candidates throughout the state. Andy Abboud, Senior Vice President at Las Vegas Sands, stated that the company’s advocacy efforts will continue until approval is granted. When questioned about the timeline, he responded, “Forever. We’re not going anywhere. We are fully committed to this initiative. It represents a tremendous opportunity, and the people of Texas clearly want it. Our presence here is long-term and unwavering.” Although legislative approval has yet to be secured, Las Vegas Sands has already begun recruiting personnel in Dallas. The company currently lists 10 open positions in Texas, including roles such as application architects, data engineers, and a senior product manager responsible for developing casino management software “from the ground up.” With the planned resort near Houston commencing operations, Las Vegas Sands anticipates that local residents may become increasingly receptive to the concept of a casino resort in Dallas. 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 prohibition on sweepstakes casinos is set to become law in Oklahoma starting November 1, following the legislature's override of Governor Kevin Stitt's veto. Stitt rejected SB1589 earlier this week, but the Senate voted 34-10 to overturn the Governor's decision. The House then did the same with a 68-19 vote, resulting in the bill being officially filed. Dual-Currency Gambling to Be Prohibited Once effective in November, the law will forbid operators from employing dual-currency systems to provide online casino games. The legislation describes online casino games as “any gambling game accessible via the internet or a device like a computer, phone, or tablet that, upon risking any representative of value, simulates any gambling game.” It further defines “representative of value” as “any and all currency within a dual-currency payment system that can be exchanged for a prize, cash, or a chance to win such items.” Currently, most major sweepstakes casinos still operate in Oklahoma. Continuing after November could result in Class C2 felony charges, carrying fines from $500 to $2,000 and possible jail time. Governor Objects to Vague Definitions Gov. Stitt issued a statement detailing his reasons for vetoing the bill. “Oklahoma’s gaming laws need to be clear, targeted, and fair. Senate Bill 1589 fails to meet that standard,” the Governor wrote. “This bill is so broad that it criminalizes everyday apps people use for fun. It also unnecessarily establishes a new felony and broadens criminal liability to businesses and service providers,” Stitt added. “Such a vague and overreaching method creates uncertainty for legitimate businesses and hinders innovation and investment. Oklahoma can safeguard consumers without imposing criminal penalties that go further than necessary.” Will Louisiana Governor Also Veto Approved Ban? Louisiana legislators also forwarded a bill to the Governor on Thursday aiming to ban dual-currency gambling platforms. HB883 contains wording similar to Oklahoma's bill. It expands the definition of illegal gambling to include: “Any internet or device-accessible game using a dual-currency system where the currency can be exchanged for prizes or cash, simulating gambling, constitutes gambling by computer.” Gov. Jeff Landry vetoed a comparable bill last year, noting the existing enforcement tools against illegal gambling. The state then issued cease-and-desist orders to 40 offshore and sweepstakes operators. Many have obeyed, with at least 57 platforms now blocking Louisiana users. Consequently, Gov. Landry might veto this bill as well. Echoing Gov. Stitt's concerns, Gov. Landry stated last year that “some of the language in this bill is overly broad and could be interpreted negatively, potentially harming our ongoing enforcement efforts against these bad actors.” If he approves the ban, Louisiana would be the fifth state this year to outlaw sweepstakes casinos. Besides Oklahoma, Tennessee, Indiana, and Maine have all enacted bans on these 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) - A Chinese man who attempted to report fellow gamblers to the police for cheating during an illegal gaming session has ended up in prison. The man, surnamed Wu, was betting on rounds of tui bing zi—a popular tile-based gambling game using mahjong tiles—at an undisclosed location in Anshan City, Liaoning Province. Tui bing zi requires participants to try to outscore a dealer, similar to the card game blackjack. However, during his illegal gambling session with eight other individuals, Wu grew suspicious that his fellow players were conspiring to cheat at the game and ensure he kept losing, according to reports from the Chinese media outlet GWM. Chinese gamblers often use mahjong tiles to play tui bing zi. (Image: Jericka Cruz) Chinese Gamblers: Cheating Row Lands All Parties in Prison The Haicheng Public Security Bureau of Liaoning Province said a “farcical situation” unfolded when Wu called a local police station to complain that he had lost 2,300 yuan ($340) during a “rigged” tui bing zi tournament. He requested the police to “uphold justice” on his behalf. Police officers were dispatched to the scene but discovered that the gambling session had already concluded. Nonetheless, Wu and two others remained at the location as the dispute continued. Officers arrested all three individuals. During police questioning, the trio reportedly provided full confessions. Downtown Anshan, in China’s Liaoning Province. (Image: Philarcher0615 [CC BY-SA 3.0]) Police later apprehended a man surnamed Wang, whom they accused of using “custom-made glasses” to cheat during the tournament. The bureau sentenced Wang to 15 days in jail. However, it also detained Wu and the remaining seven individuals for 10 days for engaging in illegal gambling. The bureau imposed fines totaling 1,000 yuan (approximately $150) on all but one of the gamblers. One man, surnamed Zhou, was fined $300 after police identified him as the organizer of the tournament. Crime Wave Gathers Intensity Law enforcement agencies across China are currently intensifying their efforts against a rising wave of illegal gambling. Detectives state that gamblers are now gathering in abandoned buildings and remote rural areas. Gangs have become highly organized, utilizing encrypted chat applications to coordinate secret betting sessions and employing CCTV equipment to monitor for law enforcement. Betting ring organizers believe this strategy will help them evade detection. Nevertheless, officers assert they are leveraging an extensive network of informants and drones to identify and arrest illegal gamblers. All forms of gambling are prohibited in China, except for two state-run national lotteries. The government categorizes both lotteries as authorized forms of fundraising by the state. 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 prominent politician has commended the Indonesian police following their dismantling of a major online gambling network and the arrest of 321 foreign nationals. According to the official website of the Gerindra Party, police conducted raids on a commercial property located in Jakarta’s Chinatown district. Indonesian National Police (Polri) authorities stated that the premises functioned as a central hub for the network. Its operators reportedly managed approximately 70 online casino platforms, primarily targeting clients outside Indonesia. Indonesia is currently intensifying its crackdown on online casinos, promoters, and participants involved in gambling activities. Courts in the country are empowered to impose prison sentences of up to 10 years on those found operating illegal gambling sites. Gerindra lawmaker Bob Hasan, who serves as a member of one of the largest policy-making commissions within the Indonesian House of Representatives, publicly praised Polri’s efforts. He emphasized that the operation demonstrated the government’s firm commitment to dismantling criminal networks and curbing the surge in illegal online gambling. “[The commission] extends its deepest appreciation to our law enforcement officers,” Hasan remarked. “The police acted swiftly and decisively against international online gambling operators.” An exclusive report by Kompas TV on the recent arrests in Jakarta. Indonesian Police Arrest 321: Key Details Polri confirmed that among those arrested were 228 Vietnamese citizens, along with 57 Chinese nationals. The remaining individuals held citizenship from Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Malaysia, as verified by Wira Satya Triputra, head of general crime investigations at Polri. Hasan highlighted the raid as evidence that organized foreign criminal syndicates are actively operating in Indonesia through online gambling networks. “This incident confirms that the online gambling network involves external actors,” the lawmaker asserted. “It must be eradicated at its source. We cannot afford to limit our response to a single case only.” He cautioned that the arrested individuals might represent merely the surface of a much larger operation. Hasan called for police to conduct comprehensive searches across “various regions” to identify additional members of the network. Police have reaffirmed that their investigation remains ongoing and may be expanded further as new leads emerge. “Online gambling has become a deeply troubling phenomenon,” Hasan concluded. “The government must take resolute action to dismantle all such networks and safeguard the public interest.” A Highly Structured Criminal Organization Polri officials revealed that they brought down the network before it could fully develop. According to the police chief, the operation had only been active for about two months prior to the raids. Wira described the organization as highly sophisticated. He noted that the multinational workforce was strategically assigned to various functional roles within the enterprise. Some employees handled customer service duties, while others specialized in marketing or financial operations. Earlier this month, Polri issued a warning about an anticipated “explosion” in illegal sports betting activity. Officials anticipate a wave of fraudulent sports betting websites targeting soccer enthusiasts ahead of this summer’s FIFA World Cup. CasinoBeats has observed recent evidence showing numerous illegal betting platforms continuing to promote their services to Indonesian users via widely used internet channels. 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.