Category: iGame

(AsiaGameHub) - Genius Sports reported a significant net loss for the first quarter of the year, yet the company's leadership remains confident in its ambitious year-end projections. The London-headquartered, NYSE-listed sports technology firm released its Q1 financial results today, showing a 30.5% increase in year-over-year revenue, rising from $143.9 million (£105.6 million) to $187.9 million. Adjusted EBITDA for the group also grew by 21.3%, from $19.8 million to $24 million. However, Genius's progress towards profitability was impacted by its $1.2 billion acquisition of Legend earlier in the year. Genius reported a Q1 net loss of $55.5 million for the group, a substantial increase of 576.6% from the $8.2 million loss recorded in the previous year. The company directly linked this to the $1.2 billion Legend acquisition, as well as foreign exchange fluctuations and stock-based compensation. Nevertheless, considering a cost exceeding $1 billion, this loss is not deemed catastrophic. Nevertheless, the Legend acquisition has presented challenges for Genius, particularly from a market standpoint, since its inception. The markets did not respond with the same enthusiasm as Genius to the acquisition of Legend, a leading global sports and entertainment digital media platform, resulting in a 23% drop in the firm's share price immediately following the announcement. Genius's management, supported by several independent investment analysts, has asserted that this market skepticism stemmed from a fundamental misinterpretation of Legend as merely an affiliate business. Genius and others contend that its scope extends far beyond that. Setting aside the Legend M&A, Genius can draw confidence from the strong Q1 performance of both its betting and media divisions. Revenue from the Betting Technology, Content, and Services division increased by 33.3% to $146.2 million (from $109.7 million), while Media Technology, Content, and Services revenue grew by 22.7% to $41.7 million (from $34.3 million). Mark Locke, founder and Chief Executive Officer, stated: “Our first-quarter results highlight the resilience and clarity of our business model, demonstrating robust revenue growth in both Betting and Media, fueled by long-term agreements, expanding client relationships, and the introduction of new products throughout the global sports and betting landscape.” Source: Genius Sports – investor Summit A Legend-ary role of the dice for Genius? Genius's share price continues to be significantly lower than its level before the Legend acquisition. Last month, specifically in early April, its market capitalization dropped below the Legend takeover valuation for the first time, reaching a low of $1.01 billion on April 10, almost $200 million less than the acquisition cost. As of yesterday's market close, the company's shares were priced at $4.40 each, a decrease from just over $11 on December 31, 2025, which was 33 days before the Legend acquisition was announced. Despite this, Genius asserts that the Legend transaction will ultimately benefit its business. Management now anticipates group revenue between $990 million and $1 billion, and Adjusted EBITDA between $270 million and $280 million by the close of 2026. The company also projects Q2 revenue of $185 million and EBITDA of $45 million, following the finalization of the Legend takeover on May 1, 2026. “With the Legend acquisition now finalized, we are extending our platform further into fan engagement and participation, generating new prospects across sports, media, and iGaming,” Locke concluded. “This integration reinforces our long-term growth trajectory, improves monetization throughout our ecosystem, and is anticipated to lead to substantial margin expansion and cash flow over time.” 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) - IGT PlaySports Head of Sports Trading, Tony DiTommaso, explains how extensive expertise will allow IGT to assist and scale opportunities for clients in anticipation of the FIFA World Cup. Soccer’s popularity in the U.S. is climbing as the sport gains greater visibility. With the FIFA World Cup set to kick off in mid-June, North America will be the center of global attention as it hosts the tournament for the first time since 1994. Beyond the massive international viewership, millions of spectators are expected to visit the 16 host cities—11 in the U.S., three in Mexico, and two in Canada. This heightened focus on soccer is expected to trigger a surge in wagering volume across North America, a market that typically trails behind major U.S. sports like basketball, baseball, and American football. Financial services firm Gabelli, based in New York, forecasts that the total U.S. handle will more than double the $1.8bn recorded during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. We view this as a prime opportunity to promote the World Cup to our clients and sustain business momentum during the traditionally quieter summer months. Wagering is already open for group stage matches beginning June 11, alongside various tournament props, including qualification outcomes, eliminations, group winners, and individual player awards. The comprehensive betting menu for the World Cup mirrors that of other major sporting events, such as March Madness, the Super Bowl, and professional league playoffs. Offerings include the standard three-way money line (win, lose, or draw) and prop bets—such as team top scorers, player discipline, and assists—that cater to both casual soccer fans and those with deep knowledge of international players and teams. We have made a concerted effort to communicate proactively with our clients regarding the tournament. We are currently providing hundreds of prop bets for each match scheduled for early June, as well as numerous tournament futures markets, including group betting, the Golden Boot, teams to advance, and odds regarding when host nations might be eliminated. Fortunately, IGT clients benefit from the PlaySports Trading Advisory Service team, which prioritizes events of this magnitude and possesses a thorough understanding of the sport, its betting trends, and emerging opportunities. As these major events approach, IGT’s trading advisory team increases engagement with clients, keeping them updated on new content as it becomes available. Preparation for this year’s World Cup is especially critical, as the event’s presence in the United States is expected to drive substantial handle. A study by the global payments platform Paysafe suggests that the World Cup will generate opportunities for both first-time bettors and increased engagement from experienced sports wagering enthusiasts. The research indicates that 92% of those planning to bet expect to wager at their usual level or higher, with 37% intending to increase their activity—a figure that rises to 51% among U.S. residents. The rise in online betting and soccer’s growing popularity in the U.S., paired with the tournament’s timing during the typically slower summer season, creates a unique convergence of potential for IGT clients. Unlike previous tournaments, this event takes place in U.S. time zones, features an expanded number of teams, and offers highly accessible viewing options. Some of our team members recall the 1994 World Cup, which certainly boosted handle; with today’s technological advancements driving engagement, we anticipate even greater growth in 2026. 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) - Finland’s state-owned monopoly operator Veikkaus has returned to profitability in the first quarter of 2026, bolstering its financial standing ahead of the country’s shift to a multi-license gambling framework. The update was delivered by Veikkaus Chief Executive Officer Olli Sarekoski in an investor briefing, where he reported a 2.5% increase in gross gaming revenue (GGR) for the three months ending March 2026. In July 2027, Finland will end its current gambling monopoly, opening its online betting and gaming sector to international operators. However, Veikkaus will maintain exclusive rights to lotteries, scratch cards, and physical slot machines. As competition grows, Veikkaus aims to capitalize on its domestic expertise not only to compete with new entrants in Finland but also to pursue international expansion. This expansion strategy is already underway through the operator’s in-house Fennica Gaming studio, which has established a strong presence abroad. Sarekoski noted that in Q1, Fennica Gaming’s international operations grew by 380%, with game sales accounting for 87% of that growth. “These results are highly encouraging, but sustaining them demands ongoing innovation—particularly given the challenging economic climate and rising competition both at home and abroad,” Sarekoski said. What will Veikkaus look like in 2030? Veikkaus began 2026 on a positive note, despite flat sales performance in fiscal year 2025. The annual report revealed that lottery games generated €497 million in revenue, representing 53.1% of total income. The company has already launched its 2030 strategy, focusing on strengthening its financial position—evidenced by the recent appointment of Ilkka Kosola as Chief Financial Officer—and has publicly committed to becoming a significant international player by the end of the decade. “Aligned with our vision, we aim to transform from a national gaming operator into a successful international competitor, enhancing our position in an increasingly global market,” Veikkaus stated in its FY25 results. “Our objective is to be a respected and successful international gaming group by 2030.” With a profitable lottery division and an already global-facing business via Fennica Gaming, Veikkaus is well-positioned to become an international brand—provided it can weather the influx of competitors entering the Finnish market and adapt to the new regulatory environment. Speculation about a potential initial public offering (IPO) has emerged as Veikkaus explores opportunities beyond Finland, though no official confirmation has been made. Given that the multi-license system does not take effect until 2027, any move toward public listing is likely to be delayed. Maija Strandberg, Head of the department overseeing Finland’s state-owned assets, commented: “Veikkaus must prove it can compete in the open market. Is one year sufficient for the company to demonstrate this? We would then be approaching the end of 2028. Any decision would likely come near the decade’s close.” For now, Veikkaus remains focused on advancing its growth within Finland. “We will continue steadfastly on our chosen path, building a future where growth, responsibility, and continuous development go hand in hand,” Sarekoski concluded. 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) - PlayCity, Ukraine’s gambling regulator, is intensifying its scrutiny of the legal betting sector, imposing a fine of almost $10,000 on Slots UA, the operator of the sports betting and online slots brand Betking. Betking was formerly known as Slotoking. Slots UA also runs the 777 brand. Kyiv granted the former a sportsbook operating permit in late 2024. In a statement posted on its Telegram channel, PlayCity said the reason for the fine was “the untimely provision of information upon request. “The prompt and complete provision of information is every gambling organizer’s duty,” PlayCity wrote. “This is an important condition for the transparent operation of the gambling market.” Ukraine: Betking Operator Must Comply With Regulations Last year, Slots UA placed in the top 10 most successful companies in the Ukrainian gambling industry, Forbes Ukraine reported. The firm reportedly saw its revenue rise x103 in 2023, earning Slots UA 3.4 billion hryvnia, or $77.3 million. The media outlet noted that the operator posted UAH 10.9 billion ($248 million) in revenue for the first nine months of 2025. The operator made UAH 12.4 billion (over $282 million) in 2024. PlayCity reminded operators to “promptly report” on their financial status, cash flow, and the measures they take to prevent and combat gambling addiction. Failure to comply will result in fines or the cancellation of operating permits, the regulator warned. The development comes just weeks after PlayCity revoked the license of the Cosmolot online casino operator Spaceiks. Central Kyiv, Ukraine. (Image: Oleksandr Brovko) Government Rolls Out 9-Year Anti-Gambling Addiction Strategy Meanwhile, the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine said it has developed the country’s first state-mandated strategy to “minimize the negative impact of gambling and combat gambling addiction.” In a May 5 press release, the ministry said the strategy will operate until 2035, with the government “regularly evaluating its efficacy.” The strategy calls for a shift from addressing the consequences of gambling addiction to active addiction prevention. The plan will help minimize the social harm of gambling, the ministry said. Kyiv will start developing educational programs, self-control tools for patrons, promote responsible gaming, and crack down harder on illegal gambling operators, the ministry added. The Ministry of Health will also create new treatment and rehabilitation programs for gambling addicts. Health clinics will also begin screening for gambling addiction, while doctors will update treatment programs. The ministry also said it would expand citizens’ access to mental health services and provide specialist training for doctors, social workers, and psychologists. More than 40 government agencies and institutions will work with the ministry on implementation. These include the Ministry of Social Policy, the Ministry of Education and Science, Ukraine’s law enforcement agencies, and local government organs. 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) - Russia’s new Siberian gambling zone will feature casinos that will rival those in Macao, according to a leading political scientist. The expert said it was significant that the zone in the Altai Republic is being backed by Sberbank chief Herman Gref. Gref, a former government minister, is one of the most powerful and influential members of the Russian business community. Sberbank has a market cap of around $92 billion and is Russia’s largest financial group. “The decision [to create the zone] is a testament to the significant lobbying power of Gref and the Altai Governor Andrey Turchak,” the political scientist Andrey Kuznetsov told the Russian media outlet NGS 42. “Gref will be responsible for developing the gambling zone. He will be drawing on the best international practices,” Kuznetsov added. The expert said that judging by Sberbank’s approach to developing its resorts, the firm would not be “skimping on investment.” “The casinos [in the new zone] will be on par with Macao, and much better than those in neighboring Altai Krai,” said Kuznetsov. Russia’s Altai Republic will become the country’s sixth gambling zone. (Image: Ekaterina Boltaga) New Siberian Casino Hub On May 2, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a law establishing the sixth gambling zone in the Altai Republic. This law comes into effect on May 12. Siberia is already home to the Siberian Coin gambling zone. The Kremlin has also previously approved gambling zones in Krasnodar, Primorsky Krai, Kaliningrad, and Crimea. Advocates of the new gambling zone have been lobbying for approval since mid-October 2025. Betting industry insiders have criticized the plans, arguing that Siberia is too remote to attract most patrons and suggesting that zones closer to major cities like Moscow would be more viable. However, the Ministry of Finance maintains that the zone is part of a regional development strategy aimed at generating employment opportunities for local residents. NGS 42 reported that the Sberbank-operated resort in Manzherok confirmed the gambling zone would be developed around its facilities. The Sberbank-operated resort in Russia’s Manzherok. (Image: Post Scriptum Soul [CC BY-SA 4.0]) Manzherok is situated along the Katun River, which forms the border between the Altai Republic and Altai Krai. Sberbank renovated the resort in 2023, now featuring a five-star hotel and year-round ski slopes. Resort staff declined to comment on the anticipated opening date for the first casinos in Manzherok. Chinese Visitors: Russian Casinos Prime Target? Kuznetsov indicated that residents of the Altai Republic could expect increased tourism from China, alongside growth in domestic travel. Nevertheless, he noted several practical challenges that might hinder these plans, including “electricity shortages due to insufficient gas infrastructure” and “challenges in implementing sewerage systems in rural areas.” Other experts expressed mixed views on how the introduction of the new Altai Republic zone would impact Siberian Coin. Manzherok lies approximately 70 kilometers from Siberian Coin. Igor Myakishev, a real estate specialist based in the Altai mountain region, suggested that tourists would prefer the newer destination. “In terms of infrastructure, Siberian Coin falls short because its hotels offer more basic accommodations,” Myakishev explained. “Manzherok provides a luxury, five-star experience.” But Eduard Kolozhvari, an Associate Professor in the financial department at Novosibirsk State University of Economics and Management, disagreed. Kolozhvari argued that the majority of visitors to both zones would consist of Chinese tourists. While some travelers may seek high-end lodging, others will look for more affordable options, the academic concluded. A Footfall Boost Siberian Coin has experienced year-over-year revenue growth as visitor numbers and income continue to rise. The Kremlin continues to consider a proposal from the Ministry of Finance to legalize online casinos. Industry participants describe such a move as a “much-needed breath of fresh air” for Russian businesses. Under the ministry’s plan, operators would be taxed at an annual rate equal to 30% of their profits, after subtracting winnings payouts. 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 Montreal Canadiens will clash with the Buffalo Sabres in Game 1 of their second-round playoff series tonight. The puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET, with live coverage available on TNT and truTV. The Canadiens advanced after a seven-game series against the Lightning. The Sabres secured their spot by defeating the Bruins in six games. DraftKings has listed Buffalo as a -130 home favorite, with an over/under set at 5.5 goals. A total of 79% of the moneyline handle and 69% of the tickets are betting on the Sabres. Best Bet: Canadiens vs. Sabres: OVER 5.5 (-122) These teams split their regular-season matchups 2-2, with each game producing at least six goals. The Canadiens scored three or more goals in every contest against the Sabres during the regular season. While Tampa Bay managed to contain Montreal and kept the Habs to four goals over their final three games, this series versus Buffalo appears to be far more open and high-scoring. Bet on the OVER 5.5 tonight. Best Player Prop for Montreal Canadiens Nick Suzuki OVER 0.5 Assists (-125) Nick Suzuki recorded five assists in the opening round against the Lightning. He finished the regular season ranked fifth in the NHL with 72 assists. In four games versus the Sabres during the regular season, Suzuki tallied six assists. His playmaking thrives playing alongside Montreal’s top line featuring Juraj Slafkovsky and Cole Caufield. Caufield scored 51 goals in the regular season, placing him second in the NHL. Suzuki also benefits from his role on Montreal’s top power-play unit. Best Player Prop for Buffalo Sabres Rasmus Dahlin OVER 2.5 Shots (-135) Canadiens Rasmus Dahlin fired 21 shots at the Bruins in the opening round. He averaged 3.5 shots per game and surpassed that mark in four of the six games. He now faces a Montreal team that allowed 623 shots (or 7.6 per game) to opposing defensemen during the regular season—a trend that continued in the first round against Tampa Bay, where Buffalo’s blueliners combined for an astonishing 59 shots on goal. Dahlin registered 11 shots across four regular-season games against the Canadiens. 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) - ChatBet has launched version 3 of its AI chatbot betting assistant in Latin America. The company, backed by WhatsApp’s parent Meta, states that it aims to transform “messaging apps into powerful revenue channels for operators.” “Players can place bets instantly via WhatsApp, Telegram, Discord, and more. No need for apps or extra steps — just seamless, chat-based betting,” ChatBet adds on its official website. Through messaging platforms, users can submit bets simply by typing a message or sending a voice note. ChatBet’s AI processes these requests and automatically generates the corresponding bet slips on its partners’ platforms, which currently include BetVIP and BetPlay across Latin America. Company Promises to Boost Operator Revenue The company’s website, targeting gambling firms seeking to enhance player engagement, highlights how integrating chatbots can increase betting activity. According to the site: Players place bets more frequently thanks to AI-driven prompts The technology can deliver a 30% increase in gambling revenue Users place bets as naturally as chatting with a friend Josh Swerdlow, founder of ChatBet, remarked, “We’re already live with operators in Latin America, where WhatsApp dominates as the main communication channel, and we’re observing strong engagement, conversion rates, and repeat usage. This shift is less about ‘chatbots’ and more about a new interaction model, where conversational interfaces replace traditional navigation methods.” Gambling companies have faced criticism for using AI tools and VIP hosts to target bettors. DraftKings and FanDuel are currently involved in lawsuits alleging their technology is invasive and designed to promote gambling addiction. Latin American Gambling Companies Embracing ChatBet ChatBet’s website features testimonials from several partners in Latin America, including BetVIP, which primarily operates in Mexico. “BetVIP has embraced ChatBet’s disruptive innovation through its AI-powered solution enabling bet placement via various messaging apps,” said BetVIP CEO Danny Delgado. “Without doubt, this represents a key differentiator to stand out in a highly competitive market like Mexico.” It remains unclear what level of involvement Meta has in the company’s operations. The social media giant has drawn criticism for permitting unlicensed gambling companies to advertise on its platforms. Although BetVIP is largely active in Mexico, it holds a license issued by Malta. Another partner, Growe, is licensed in Cyprus, yet continues to target users throughout Latin America. “ChatBet impressed me. Its AI-powered solution, engineered to seamlessly integrate sports betting via WhatsApp, is an innovative tool offering a fresh approach to attracting new players and improving user experience, perfectly matching the habits of our target audience,” stated Cristhian Gomez, Regional Director for Latin America at Growe. Less Talk, More Betting Swerdlow explained that ChatBet aims to convert conversations about betting into actual wagers. “Users are already expressing betting intentions conversationally,” he said. “This shift allows ChatBet to turn that intent into a structured, compliant bet in real time. That’s exactly what ChatBet enables. Just as Google revolutionized search, conversational interfaces are beginning to transform transactions. In betting, this means removing the friction between intention and execution.” 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 Ukrainian lawmaker has cautioned that a suggested shift of gambling policy authority between two of the country’s ministries could be more detrimental than beneficial. Nina Yuzhanina, a member of parliament from Ukraine’s European Solidarity party, turned to Facebook to openly condemn the progress of draft bill No. 15111-d, which seeks to regulate taxes on earnings derived from digital platforms. The drafting of the bill has been assigned to the Committee on Finance, Tax, and Customs Policy, led by MP Danylo Hetmantsev. The bill is part of Ukraine’s commitments to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which mandates that the nation provide reports on internal data regarding income generated digitally and its taxation. In her Facebook post, Yuzhanina criticized Hetmantsev and the Committee harshly for failing to maintain strict control and allowing excessive redaction, pointing out that deputies had put forward 3,529 amendments before the bill’s second reading. Ukraine loses £334m yearly, Hetmantsev claims Among these proposals is the transfer of gambling policy formulation from the Ministry of Digital Transformation to the Ministry of Finance. Hetmantsev has been an outspoken critic of the Digital Ministry’s management of gambling matters, focusing mainly on the rollout of the State Online Monitoring System—a centralized digital platform that provides real-time data on the licensed market to Ukraine’s PlayCity regulator. The first phase of the system was rolled out in April, and it is anticipated to be fully functional by the end of the year. Hetmantsev asserts that this schedule will cost the Ukrainian treasury as much as UAH 20 billion (£334.4 million) annually. As head of the Financial Committee, Hetmantsev argues that the Ministry of Finance is much better prepared to assume regulatory supervision of the gambling sector, a key part of the national economy. Speaking to Ukrainian news outlet 24 Channel, Mykhailo Aksyonov—Deputy Head of the PlayCity Anti-Corruption Expert Group—opposed the idea of transferring authority, stating that this step might not only be expensive but also throw the entire sector into disarray. He stated: “No matter who proposed this amendment or what reasons lie behind it, the concept of transferring authority right now seems extremely risky. “If we begin shifting policy-making duties from the Ministry of Digital Transformation to the Ministry of Finance while also establishing a new body to oversee this area, the rollout of the State Online Monitoring System could be delayed by at least 12 months. “This system is the critical tool for ensuring transparency in the day-to-day operations of gambling operators.” Local media reports indicate that Hetmantsev has been accused in the past of a conflict of interest because of his connections to the gambling industry, having once held shares in the scandal-plagued lottery operator MSL. MSL was one of two lottery firms—the other being Patriot—that were accused of participating in cross-border money laundering between Russia and Ukraine in 2015. Neither company was prevented from winning one of the three official state lottery contracts earlier this year, though Patriot had its license revoked shortly after the new licensing system was implemented. 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 will return to Lisbon from 29 September to 1 October, featuring a reimagined six-stage conference agenda that provides a comprehensive, 360-degree perspective on today’s global iGaming industry. The 2026 program has been crafted to reflect the multifaceted nature of the industry. Each stage is centered on a distinct force influencing the market, with dedicated discussions covering Global & Emerging Markets, Technology & Innovation, the Payment Expert Summit, the Affiliate Leaders Summit, and Regulation & Compliance. As progress across these domains becomes increasingly interconnected, the agenda is designed to deliver clarity, enabling delegates to grasp how key sectors intersect, evolve, and influence best practices across the worldwide iGaming ecosystem. Aidan Brain, VP of Conference Production at SBC, stated: “Success in today’s market hinges on aligning multiple critical factors simultaneously—from entering new markets to developing superior products and navigating regulatory landscapes.” “The agenda has been developed to mirror this reality, with each stage focused on equipping delegates to make more informed decisions in areas directly impacting growth.” The conference stages The Global & Emerging Markets stage will guide delegates in identifying emerging opportunities and strategies to capitalize on them. Over three days, it will challenge conventional views on mature markets while offering deeper insights into high-potential regions. Sessions will analyze how evolving regulations and changing player behaviors are unlocking new business prospects for companies expanding into or establishing themselves in these markets. Day One: Emerging Markets – Africa, Eastern Europe & Central Asia, and the Middle East Day Two: Western Europe – The UK, Italy, the Netherlands, and Scandinavia Day Three: Latin America – Brazil, Peru, Mexico, and broader regional trends The Technology & Innovation stage will examine how technology is transforming gaming businesses, from platforms driving next-generation player engagement to systems powering operational efficiency behind the scenes. Sessions will explore how operators can enhance user experiences, strengthen infrastructure resilience, and leverage technology to gain competitive advantages. Each day will spotlight a different facet of technological innovation, addressing Sports Betting Innovation, iGaming Product & Design, and Marketing & Customer Experience, highlighting where technology can be strategically applied to create better products and acquire more customers. The Payment Expert Summit stage will investigate how payments have evolved from a back-office function to a decisive factor in where players choose to engage. Delegates will learn how to build payment ecosystems that are fast, secure, and compliant with rising regulatory standards. Each day will focus on a core element of an organization’s payment framework, featuring dedicated tracks on Fintech, Anti-Money Laundering (AML) & Compliance, and Crypto & Blockchain technologies. The Regulation & Compliance stage will explore how shifting global policies are reshaping the industry landscape. With emphasis on Global Regulations, Player Protection, and Compliance Technology, the agenda will address strategies for managing heightened regulatory oversight while fostering sustainable, compliant operations across both established and emerging markets. The Affiliate Leaders Summit stage—co-hosted as a standalone event alongside SBC Summit—will examine how affiliate brands can transcend their traditional role as traffic generators and evolve into full-fledged media enterprises. Across three days, sessions will cover tightening regulations, evolving acquisition methodologies, and the development of effective multi-channel strategies across social platforms. The agenda spans from Omnichannel Marketing Technology to the Future of Affiliate Strategy and AdTech & Analytics Innovation, ensuring affiliates and attendees receive the strategic insight required to thrive in modern growth environments. Attendance at the Affiliate Leaders Summit requires a separate ticket. In addition to the five themed conference stages, the Super Stage at the MEO Arena will once again host headline presentations featuring some of the industry’s most influential leaders, along with prominent speakers from outside the sector. Previous editions have included appearances by Gary Vaynerchuk, Randi Zuckerberg, and Oleksandr Usyk. The 2026 edition will also introduce additional educational formats tailored for delegates seeking intensive, practical learning experiences. SBC’s Tech Academies will offer in-depth training in key disciplines such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Web3, marketing, and gamification, complemented by a series of workshops and newly announced formats. Access to these sessions is available through specialized ticket add-ons. Additional details can be found here. SBC Summit will convene professionals from across the globe to discuss the future of the gaming industry. Combining a large exhibition floor, a multi-track conference program, and a full schedule of networking events, the event delivers a comprehensive platform for learning, relationship-building, and business development. Affiliates, regulators, and operator C-suite executives and other budget holders may apply for a complimentary VIP Pass, granting unrestricted access to SBC Summit, including all conference sessions, the exhibition floor, and networking events. Other operator roles remain eligible for complimentary access and may qualify for a Business Pass, which can be upgraded as needed. For all other attendees, a variety of ticket options is available, aligned with diverse event objectives. Ticket tiers range from expo-only entry to full VIP experiences, with premium passes providing access to every conference stage, exclusive networking programs, evening networking receptions, and enhanced on-site amenities. Attendees will also benefit from the SBC Connect app, which allows them to schedule meetings, connect with peers, and access on-demand content following the event. Explore all available ticket options and reserve your spot at SBC Summit through the official website. 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 Paul Liberman has expressed that the company would welcome the opportunity to offer controversial microbetting markets on its platform. This statement comes despite DraftKings facing a lawsuit that accuses the company of promoting gambling addiction through such betting formats. Microbetting generally involves placing bets on specific in-game events during live sports, such as the next possession in basketball, the next play in football, or the next pitch in baseball. “Prediction markets have been remarkably fast at introducing new categories, and they’ve done so very quickly,” Liberman said during a panel discussion at the 29th Annual Milken Institute Global Conference on Monday. “I believe we’ll soon see even faster and more dynamic micro markets emerge in sports that currently don’t exist,” he continued. “We’ve already seen this with RFQs and parlays. I expect further innovation will make prediction markets increasingly dynamic within sports.” Microbetting Driving Growth in the Gambling Industry In-play or live betting accounted for 62.35% of the total betting market share in 2025, according to a report by Mordor Intelligence. “This growth is driven by improvements in low-latency streaming technology and the increasing popularity of micro-betting products, which allow wagers on highly specific outcomes like the next pitch, serve, or possession,” the report noted. DraftKings entered the microbetting space in 2024 by acquiring Simplebet for nearly $200 million. “What micro markets did was extend the betting platform’s availability throughout an entire game, keeping users engaged,” said Matthew Bakowicz, a former DraftKings sportsbook manager, in an interview with CasinoBeats earlier this year. Sportsbook Experience Remains Superior, Claims Liberman The Public Health Advocacy Institute (PHIA) filed a lawsuit against DraftKings, along with FanDuel, the NFL, and data provider Genius Sports, alleging that these organizations are contributing to gambling addiction through microbetting. The suit describes how rapid wagers placed on individual pitches, plays, shots, or other in-game moments can affect bettors by inducing what it calls a “trancelike state known as ‘dark flow,’ in which individuals become completely absorbed in the game.” Liberman responded that the sportsbook experience—which the lawsuit criticized heavily—remains superior compared to prediction markets. “Our research shows that sportsbooks provide, overall, a better consumer experience for sports than prediction markets do,” Liberman stated. “For our customers in sportsbook-legal jurisdictions, surveys show they still prefer interacting with a traditional sportsbook. We’re able to offer them promotions and create a more engaging experience overall.” Is Betting on Prediction Markets the Same as Sports Betting? While the sportsbook model appears better calibrated to engage bettors, Liberman acknowledged that wagering on prediction markets shares similarities. “For the average user, placing a bet through a sportsbook or trading on the Celtics feels essentially the same,” he said. Brian Quintenz, a board member of Kalshi and previously nominated to lead the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), also participated in the panel alongside Liberman. His nomination was later withdrawn following opposition over his potential appointment. Quintenz, however, was less inclined to equate prediction markets with sports betting. “I see a distinction between speculation and gambling,” he remarked. “In financial markets, speculation involves trading or wagering where there is greater economic impact beyond just the money being exchanged.” This perspective aligns with positions taken by Kalshi and the CFTC under Michael Selig, who succeeded Quintenz. Quintenz added, “Can anyone honestly claim there’s no economic, financial, or commercial consequence when determining who wins or loses the Super Bowl?” Microbetting Likely to Draw Further Backlash That argument may grow harder to maintain if prediction markets expand into micromarkets. Is there any real economic, financial, or commercial significance in whether the next pitch in a baseball game is a ball or a strike? Player unions have already called on the CFTC to prohibit companies from offering player prop markets. With rising criticism of microbetting at sportsbooks and multiple lawsuits targeting prediction markets over their sports-related offerings, expanding into micromarkets seems likely to intensify public and regulatory scrutiny. Despite this, DraftKings—no stranger to legal challenges over its business practices—remains unfazed. “I believe both models are actually quite positive, which is why we support both,” Liberman said regarding sports betting and prediction markets. “They’re different, but each offers unique value.” Prediction Markets: A Gateway to States Without Legal Sports Betting Currently, the main advantage appears to be that prediction markets allow DraftKings to reach sports fans in states like Texas and California, where online gambling remains illegal. “Ultimately, with DraftKings, if we’re allowed to operate in any state, we intend to participate, and we hope to launch our products wherever legislation permits,” Liberman explained. He emphasized the need for clear federal guidance, stating, “We advocate for the federal government to take a stronger stance and affirm that sports betting is lawful and socially accepted—and that it can be conducted through prediction markets.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - A heated dispute continues over who holds the legitimate claim to a $12.8 million winning lottery ticket. Circle K—the store that printed the ticket—is petitioning an Arizona judge to stop the ticket from expiring later this month, asserting it is the rightful owner of the jackpot. Last November, a customer stopped by a Circle K in Scottsdale and requested $85 in tickets for the state lottery’s “The Pick” game. The clerk printed the tickets, but when the customer tried to pay, she found she only had $60. As a consequence, $25 worth of tickets remained in the store overnight when the drawing took place. One of those tickets matched all six numbers, turning it into a $12.8 million winner. Store Manager Buys Winning Ticket The following day, store manager Robert Gawlitza bought the leftover tickets from a coworker for $10. It’s alleged that before making the purchase, he clocked out and changed out of his work uniform. Attorney Josh Kolsrud notes this could harm Gawlitza’s claim to the prize. He told 12 News: “Who would go out to their car, change clothes, and then come back in to buy tickets unless they had a plan? If there’s any proof that he knew what was happening and used that inside information to purchase the ticket, Circle K will win this case.” Circle K management quickly learned about the transaction and ordered the ticket to be stored securely at the company’s corporate offices until a court decides who is the legal owner of the prize. Circle K Claims Ownership Under Lottery Rules Per Arizona lottery regulations, tickets must be claimed within 180 days of the drawing. This ticket is scheduled to expire on May 23, but Circle K is asking the courts to extend that deadline. The store is also asserting its rightful ownership of the unclaimed ticket based on state lottery rules. A lawsuit filed by Circle K against Gawlitza and the lottery states: “Pursuant to A.A.C. R19-3-213(D)(1), if a retailer generates a draw game ticket refused by the player and the retailer does not resell the ticket, the Lottery deems the ticket to be owned by the retailer.” The ticket is currently locked in a safe at Circle K’s corporate offices. Gawlitza hasn’t yet responded to the lawsuit, but is expected to do so very soon. Judge Set to Rule on Case As the deadline approaches, Circle K is hoping a judge will first issue a temporary restraining order (TRO) to stop the Arizona Lottery from enforcing the May 23 expiration date for the ticket. After that, the company wants the judge to rule that it is the rightful owner so it can claim the prize. If Circle K wins the jackpot, it’s unclear where the funds would end up. However, it’s almost certain the money won’t go directly to the store manager—the lawsuit mentions Gawlitza is now a “former employee.” The convenience store chain is owned by Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc., a Canadian corporation founded by Alain Bouchard. The company isn’t short on funds—last year, it made a $47 billion bid to acquire Seven & i Holdings, the parent company of 7-Eleven. Massive Jackpots Go Unclaimed Large jackpots have gone unclaimed before. In another unusual case, a Mega Millions winner in California lost his legal battle to claim a double jackpot this past January. Faramarz Lahijani said he’d purchased two identical tickets that both won the $395 million jackpot, but he lost one. A judge ruled against Lahijani, so he had to settle for half the prize—just $197.5 million. Around $2 billion in lottery prizes go unclaimed in the U.S. every year. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - EPIC Global Solutions has named Chetan Pandya as its new Managing Director to support the company's ongoing global expansion. Pandya was previously at DAZN, serving in senior leadership positions at the international entertainment company, which runs the world's largest OTT sports streaming service and introduced a betting offering in 2022. His appointment aligns with EPIC's goal to reinforce its role as a strategic partner for organisations in high-risk sectors, especially as regulatory oversight and player protection standards intensify. He offers extensive industry expertise, with a career spanning over 13 years at FTSE-listed Entain, in addition to a three-year period at lottery provider ZEAL Network, where he was Managing Director from 2018 to 2019. In his new capacity, Pandya will be instrumental in advancing the company's growth strategy, concentrating on expanding operations and improving EPIC's services in sport, gambling, and education. “EPIC works in an area that is growing ever more vital to the future of international sport and gambling,” Pandya stated. “The chance to influence how organisations implement prevention, responsibility, and long-term sustainability on a large scale is extremely attractive. I am thrilled to be coming on board at such a crucial point in the company's development.” Chetan Pandya. Credit: LinkedIn EPIC to build on recent global momentum Headquartered in northern England, EPIC has increasingly become a central player in industry initiatives to combat gambling-related harm, collaborating with major entities to implement prevention programmes and achieve tangible results. Its entry into the North American market has been especially significant, with the firm becoming a primary responsible-gaming services provider for industry leaders like FanDuel and BetMGM. The organisation has also increased its footprint in its native UK in recent years, taking a key part in launching the gambling-harm education programme for William Hill and the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL), while continuing a solid partnership with Flutter Entertainment’s Sky Bet. Elsewhere in Europe, EPIC forged alliances in 2025 with Greek lottery operator Intralot – which completed a £2.3bn acquisition of Bally’s Interactive last year – and France’s FDJ United, which collaborated with the group to enhance its intervention protocols. Commenting on Pandya's appointment, Paul Buck, CEO of EPIC Global Solutions, said: “This marks an important milestone for EPIC. Chetan provides the expertise, leadership, and international outlook required as we keep expanding and transforming. “Our objective is unequivocal – to become the trusted partner for the world's premier organisations in player protection, and this hiring reinforces our capacity to achieve that 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) - BETBY has followed up its introduction of a new sport in March with the release of a new game series inspired by 1990s visuals and design. The Malta-based provider of sports betting solutions has launched the ‘90s series, integrating its existing esports offerings—including basketball, baseball, tennis, and combat sports—with a retro-themed aesthetic rooted in the 1990s. The initial collection features eBasketball’98, eBaseball’95, eTennis’89, and eFighting’93. Drawing from the “pixel era” of video games, the titles feature nostalgic graphics and incorporate high-speed betting mechanics. Esports represents a key product line for BETBY, with its Betby Games division consistently highlighted in quarterly financial reports. The division continues to receive ongoing investment and strategic expansion. Kirill Nekrasov, Head of Innovation and R&D at BETBY, commented: “The ‘90s direction marks an exciting evolution for Betby Games, offering something entirely new to sportsbooks. There remains a strong emotional resonance around retro gaming—from its pixel art and audio to the straightforward nature of gameplay. We aimed to channel that nostalgia into a modern betting experience that is fast, clear, engaging, and accessible around the clock.” BETBY notes that the development and rollout of the 90s series respond to growing demand for diverse content. The company highlights increasing interest in “continuous engagement outside traditional live sports schedules.” The games operate on a one-minute match format, are available 24/7, and feature rapid payout and withdrawal processes. BETBY believes its retro-inspired products can carve out a distinctive niche within the iGaming industry. “Our objective was to enhance content variety for our partners,” added Nekrasov. “Operators require engagement tools that function non-stop, and the ‘90s’ theme delivers a unique, dynamic solution. This launch marks just the beginning; we plan to broaden the portfolio with additional 90s-themed sports and casual titles.” 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) - Entain’s Australian brands Ladbrokes AU and Neds AU are facing regulatory trouble after an Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) investigation uncovered more than 500 violations of national self-exclusion rules. The UK-headquartered gambling firm has now entered into a court-enforceable undertaking, after ACMA found its brands opened new betting accounts for people already registered with Australia’s national self-exclusion register BetStop. The company was also found to have failed to close existing wagering accounts for customers who had opted for self-exclusion. “When someone signs up to BetStop, all wagering companies are required to close every account that person holds across their services,” said ACMA member Carolyn Lidgerwood. “In this case, Entain’s internal systems did not properly identify and link all wagering accounts belonging to these customers across its platforms, including one account that stayed open for more than a year after the customer completed self-exclusion. “Once people register for self-exclusion, there should be no possible way for them to open new accounts for any licensed wagering service operating in Australia.” Not Entain’s first brush with legal trouble This is far from the first time Entain has run into legal issues tied to customer protection and gambling compliance in Australia. Back in November 2025, the Federal Court of Australia scheduled a 30 November 2026 hearing date for the lawsuit against Entain brought by Australian financial watchdog AUSTRAC. The lawsuit alleges AML (anti-money laundering) and compliance failures at Neds, Bookmaker.com.au and Ladbrokes AU. AUSTRAC claims the group’s brands operated with insufficient customer verification, inadequate source-of-funds checks, and allowed cash-deposit and third-party transaction channels that left its wagering network exposed to the risk of criminal exploitation. On top of Australian issues, the company faces additional problems in its home market of the UK, including tax increases, retail betting shop closures and a steadily tumbling share price on the London Stock Exchange over the last 12 months, and it continues to find itself wrapped up in legal disputes globally. In late March of this year, Entain was fined DKK 500,000 (£57,000) for running a ‘Risk-Free Gambling’ marketing campaign through its bwin brand in Denmark. The company has made public, intentional efforts to uphold strong player protection standards, and Chief Executive Officer Stella David is one of the most outspoken advocates for banning unlicensed brands from sponsoring English sports. Despite these efforts and public commitments, the firm remains just as liable for compliance violations as any other operator, and Australia has become a consistent hotspot of regulatory trouble for the company. In relation to this newest case, ACMA’s investigation also found Entain failed to properly promote BetStop in customer text messages and emails, as required by national rules. ACMA has secured an 18-month, court-enforceable undertaking from Entain to resolve the case. Under the terms of this agreement, the company will commission an independent review of its compliance systems and processes, and implement any recommended changes. ACMA did not issue an infringement notice in this case, as that option was not available under current rules. However, if Entain fails to meet the terms of the undertaking, it could face court-ordered financial penalties. In response to the court-enforceable undertaking, a spokesperson for Entain Australia said: “We take all our regulatory responsibilities seriously. These matters arose during the early rollout of a new national system, and we have worked constructively with ACMA to implement meaningful upgrades to our processes and controls. “Our focus is on getting this right for our customers, particularly those who choose to self-exclude, and on building long-term trust through a strong, compliance-led culture.” The spokesperson also highlighted that ACMA accepted an enforceable undertaking, rather than issuing a fine as it has done with other operators in the past, such as Betfair, PointsBet and, most recently, Tabcorp. They also confirmed that the issues are tied to the initial launch of BetStop, noting that errors are common during the early stages of any new national system, and Entain says it has already delivered significant improvements, including stronger customer matching, better account linking and ongoing system upgrades. Entain said it has engaged “constructively with the ACMA throughout, providing detailed submissions and working in good faith to address issues”. 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 period from May to August 2026 will see Sweden’s gambling industry enter a new era of compliance and regulatory oversight, as mandated by the Gambling Inspectorate, Spelinspektionen, and the Ministry of Finance, Finansdepartementet. This update follows Spelinspektionen issuing its first compliance directive under the “comprehensive ban on credit transactions,” which has been imposed as a regulatory requirement on Swedish gambling licensees effective 1 May 2026. The credit ban represents the first consumer protection measure introduced under the updated compliance charter for the Swedish Gambling Act of 2018. Niklas Wykman The compliance reforms were led by Financial Markets Minister Niklas Wykman in collaboration with Marcus Isgren, Chairman of Reklamationsnämnden—Sweden’s Consumer Disputes Board. Starting 1 May 2026, all licensed gambling operators in Sweden must ensure that customer deposits cannot originate from credit cards, overdrafts, personal loans, or buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) services. This pioneering measure, implemented by a European jurisdiction, requires gambling licensees to verify and block external payment providers—including e-wallets—from offering any form of deferred payment options. The credit restriction was approved by Finance Minister Elisabeth Svantesson, who stated that the Tidö coalition government aims to “eliminate the dangers and risks of debt and financial harm within the gambling sector.” Minister Wykman supports this policy, emphasizing that “you simply should not bet using borrowed money,” positioning Sweden as introducing Europe’s strictest controls on credit-based gambling transactions as a core consumer safeguard. However, concerns have been raised to Spelinspektionen regarding the absence of a pilot phase before full enforcement of these new credit restrictions beginning May 2026. Operators note that the primary challenge lies in technical implementation, as Swedish authorities have acknowledged difficulties in tracing whether deposited funds ultimately come from credit sources once payments pass through bank accounts or e-wallets. Critics argue that the Ministry of Finance’s compliance directive has not yet undergone rigorous testing in today’s digital transaction environment, potentially resulting in legitimate users being barred from wagering on licensed platforms. The Ministry of Finance provided no clear guidance on modern payment systems involving fintech intermediaries, cross-border payment networks, cryptocurrency transfers, or potential circumvention via offshore operators. August overhaul of self-exclusion measures The next phase of Sweden’s compliance charter will take effect from 1 August, with the implementation of SIFS 2026:3, introducing enhanced self-exclusion and identity verification standards tied to an upgraded version of Spelpaus.se—the national central self-exclusion system. Under the revised technical framework, all gambling licensees must connect to a newly developed API infrastructure created by Spelinspektionen. This API will reference Spelpaus checks using regulator-issued Actor IDs and API Keys to carry out mandatory verification processes. These changes come amid growing pressure on Sweden’s responsible gambling infrastructure, with Spelpaus registrations now exceeding 134,500 individuals. The Inspectorate aims to transition Sweden toward real-time verification against the Spelpaus database, shifting self-exclusion controls from a passive consumer tool into an active operator compliance obligation—another groundbreaking protective measure introduced by a European gambling regulator. Knutsson appointed to lead Spelinspektionen The August self-exclusion reforms coincide with a leadership change at Spelinspektionen. Peter Knutsson has been confirmed as successor to Camilla Rosenberg, who has served as Director General since 2019. Peter Knutsson Prior to his appointment, Knutsson held roles including Sweden’s Advertising Ombudsman and senior positions related to financial supervision and consumer protection. Knutsson will oversee one of the most challenging periods of compliance adjustments faced by Swedish gambling licensees since the Gambling Act came into force in 2019. In assuming leadership of Spelinspektionen, Knutsson expressed support for stricter oversight and stronger compliance requirements for operators, stating that the regulator’s mission must prioritize consumer protection and reducing the societal risks associated with gambling. He inherits a regulatory landscape increasingly focused on consumer safeguards, payment monitoring, and real-time tracking duties, as Sweden evaluates whether tighter controls can enhance channelisation without pushing consumers toward unregulated offshore gambling options. 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) - ChatBet has rolled out the third version of its platform, establishing itself as the conversational interface layer for the betting industry. This allows operators to provide a completely AI-powered, WhatsApp-integrated betting experience that complements their current tech infrastructure. As a B2B service provider, ChatBet integrates seamlessly on top of operators’ backend systems, introducing messaging as a fresh channel for customer acquisition, conversion, and retention—no modifications to existing backend infrastructure or extra regulatory clearances are needed. Supported by Meta as part of its WhatsApp Business ecosystem, ChatBet helps operators engage users on the platform they already frequent: messaging apps. Version three is currently active with several operators throughout Latin America, offering a more self-sufficient “AI bookmaker” experience that functions like a VIP concierge—converting natural language requests into fully structured, regulation-compliant betslips instantly. Josh Swerdlow, ChatBet’s founder, told SBC News: “We’re already operational with operators in Latin America—where WhatsApp is the leading user channel—and we’re observing robust indicators of engagement, conversion, and repeat usage. This transition isn’t just about chatbots; it’s about a new interaction framework, where conversational interfaces take the place of traditional navigation systems.” Markets like Argentina, Mexico, Chile, Peru, and Colombia are thought to have WhatsApp penetration rates of at least 75%, highlighting that Latin American users are both familiar with and at ease using the Meta-owned platform. ChatBet’s research further shows that bettors favor messaging apps over other types of mobile applications. ChatBet lets users place bets via WhatsApp by either sending a text or a voice note detailing the bet they want to make. The company’s AI system then handles the request and creates the bet, even if the message uses colloquial terms or slang. Check out an example of ChatBet in action for tonight’s Champions League semi-final second leg match between Bayern Munich and PSG below. For instance, a bettor might request to place a bet on “Los Blancos (often referred to as Galácticos in Latin America) to win by two goals”. ChatBet would identify that the bettor wants to wager on Real Madrid. ChatBet creates the betslip using the operator’s existing sportsbook setup, converting natural language requests into fully structured bets by mapping teams, markets, odds, and even relevant bonuses instantly. The system checks the bet against the operator’s live platform before showing the user a betslip ready for confirmation, eliminating the friction between a user’s intent to bet and the actual execution of that bet. In the initial weeks following the launch of the newest model version, ChatBet has delivered impressive outcomes. The solution has doubled clients’ conversion rates and increased average revenue per user by 22%. Swerdlow added: “Users are already sharing their betting intentions through conversations. This change is turning those intentions into structured, compliant bets instantly—and that’s exactly what ChatBet makes possible. Just as Google transformed search, conversational interfaces are beginning to revolutionize transactions. For betting, this means cutting down the friction between a user’s desire to bet and actually placing the bet. “Operators don’t have to overhaul their existing tech stack to leverage AI; they just need a more intelligent interface layer that works with what they already have.” ChatBet is expanding its partnerships with regulated operators across Latin America, using its position in the Meta ecosystem to link advertising, conversation, and conversion into a single trackable process. As adoption increases, Swerdlow predicts that conversational interfaces will become a key distribution channel for operators, allowing them to convert messaging interactions into measurable revenue and long-term player value. 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) - Lottomatica’s Q1 financial results reflect the broader Italian betting market’s adaptation to the new regulatory framework introduced in November 2025. Initial data from the updated market indicate consistent performance in online casinos, though online betting has seen less favorable trends. Certain key regulatory issues, including retail gaming and marketing policies, remain unresolved. In its Q1 report, Lottomatica reported a 2% year-over-year increase in gross gaming revenue, reaching €1.24 billion (£1.1 billion), with total revenue growing by 3% to €602 million. The most significant growth was recorded within the online gaming segment. Online revenue increased by 10% to €265 million. Meanwhile, revenue from its Gaming division remained flat at €195 million, and sports-related revenue declined by 5%, dropping from €150.4 million to €142 million. A clear contrast emerges between Lottomatica’s retail and online operations when considering market share. Despite competition from major international players such as Flutter Entertainment, Entain, bet365, and Betsson, the company remains a strong contender in Italy’s online sector. As of the end of Q1 2026, Lottomatica holds an online market share of 31.8%, up 1.4 percentage points from Q1 2025; a sports betting market share of 32.5%, an increase of 0.7 percentage points from 2025; and an iGaming market share of 32.2%, up 1.9 percentage points from 2025. The company continues to generate profits despite challenges faced by its sports and gaming divisions. Group-wide adjusted EBITDA rose 7% to €236 million (from €220.5 million), while adjusted net profit grew 12% to €106 million. Guglielmo Angelozzi, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Lottomatica, stated: “In the first quarter of 2026, we maintained strong momentum across our addressable markets, driving double-digit year-over-year growth in Adjusted EBITDA of +22%, on a normalized basis.” The SKS365 acquisition continues to deliver results Italy has become a strategic focus for numerous international operators, prompting domestic companies like Lottomatica to reassess their strategies. As noted earlier, players such as Flutter and Betsson have been expanding their presence and capturing market share in the country. Betsson’s recent Q1 performance highlights the importance of Italy to its overall European operations, contributing to regional revenue growth of 10.3% to €61.3 million. Flutter has also intensified its push into the Italian market, now owning two prominent brands—Sisal and Snaitech. To respond to this competitive landscape, local firms such as Lottomatica have pursued growth through acquisitions. In April 2024, Lottomatica acquired SKS365, a retail and online gaming operator, for €640 million, subsequently rebranding it as PWO. The firm began attributing gains in market share to this merger starting in 2025, and these improvements have persisted into 2026, according to leadership. PWO achieved an iGaming market share of 5.5%, successfully regaining half of the market share lost during the transition of its platform and customers into Lottomatica’s systems. Angelozzi commented: “PWO continues to perform well, having fully recovered its sports betting market share compared to pre-migration levels, and showing solid progress in iGaming.” Lottomatica maintains confidence amid ongoing political discussions The new regulatory environment in Italy has been broadly welcomed by licensed operators. With the second-largest betting market in Europe after the UK, Italy stands apart from other nations such as the UK, Netherlands, France, and Germany, where tax frameworks have faced more criticism. Notably, Italy’s current tax structure has not drawn similar scrutiny. Some regulatory measures, including the requirement that each brand or website must operate under a single license, have been particularly beneficial for smaller operators. However, marketing restrictions remain contentious, especially the complete prohibition on sports sponsorships. There is growing pressure on the government to reconsider the 2018 Dignity Decree, which bans betting sponsorships. This demand has intensified due to concerns about the financial impact on Italian sports, highlighted by the national team’s failure to qualify for the World Cup this year. Maurizio Leo, Deputy Minister of Economy and Finance, plans to propose a package of reforms related to retail gambling to Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s Council of Ministers. These include introducing a regional revenue-sharing model. Despite these developments, Lottomatica remains optimistic about the remainder of 2026. Angelozzi added: “With a positive outlook for fiscal year 2026, we anticipate closing the year with Adjusted EBITDA at the higher end of our guidance range and returning up to €1 billion to shareholders during 2026 and 2027, beginning this week with the launch of the newly approved share buyback program.” This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - According to reports from the research outlet Phys.org, gambling firms licensed in the Netherlands are actively promoting their services to young adults via social media platforms. By analyzing Meta’s advertising database, Dr Leon Y. Xiao identified a Facebook advertisement from the state-owned Holland Casino in early 2025. The statistics revealed that in under a week, the promotion reached 7,426 men and 9,704 women within the 18 to 24 age bracket. Another marketing campaign targeted young women by utilizing the "Get Ready With Me" makeup trend, featuring the logo for the online casino WinnItt. This brand is managed by TOTO Online BV, which is a subsidiary of another state-run entity, Nederlandse Loterij. Current Dutch gambling regulations require that all marketing efforts, for both digital and brick-and-mortar operators, must strictly avoid targeting individuals aged 18-24 on social media, as this demographic is viewed as particularly vulnerable. While Phys noted these cases as "minority examples," such infractions represent a significant blow to the reputation of the Netherlands' licensed gambling sector. Preventing these occurrences is vital, especially given the current climate where concerns regarding a growing illegal market are rising alongside increased political oversight from the new administration. This past February, Claudia Van Bruggen, the Dutch Secretary for Legal Protections, assumed responsibility for a series of Remote Gaming Act reforms initiated by her predecessor, Teun Struycken, which she must now oversee. Van Bruggen and her D66 party colleague, State Secretary of Finance Nathalie van Berkel, were recently called to account for consumer protection failures at Holland Casino—specifically an incident where individuals who had self-excluded were sent promotional materials during their cooling-off phase. With the Dutch regulated industry facing constant public scrutiny, it is more important than ever for regulators and licensed businesses to cooperate to prove that their commitment to consumer responsibility remains a top priority. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - As operators enter new regulated markets, geolocation is increasingly seen as essential for performance, compliance, and player experience. Once considered a static component of the tech stack, geolocation providers are now being reviewed more regularly due to evolving expectations around accuracy, scalability, and cost. GeoLocs, developed by mkodo, has emerged as a leading solution to address these challenges. Ben Scobie-Trumper, Head of Sales at mkodo, discusses why attitudes are changing, what factors are prompting providers to switch, and how geolocation is becoming a more strategic priority for operators. SBC News: Are you noticing operators becoming more open to switching geolocation providers? Ben Scobie-Trumper: Traditionally, operators have been reluctant to change their geolocation providers once a system is established, often assuming that switching would be complex, disruptive, or risky. However, this mindset is beginning to shift. As operators expand into additional markets and evaluate the effectiveness of their technology stacks, many are reassessing their geolocation arrangements. Based on our experience with operators through GeoLocs, provider changes are actually occurring more frequently than commonly believed. SBCN: What are the primary (publicly cited) reasons operators decide to change their geolocation provider? BST: The main drivers typically center on performance, scalability, and cost, particularly as the market continues to grow. Accuracy and reliability are crucial since they directly affect both revenue generation and regulatory compliance. False positives can prevent legitimate players from accessing services, while false negatives pose significant regulatory risks. Even minor improvements in accuracy can enhance player retention and increase betting activity. In parallel, scalability and robustness are becoming central topics in our discussions. Major events like the FIFA World Cup create massive spikes in traffic, requiring operators to ensure their geolocation systems maintain accuracy during millions—or even billions—of checks without latency or failure. Market expansion is another significant trend we’ve observed recently. As the industry develops and operators enter new regulated jurisdictions, they require solutions capable of adapting to different regulatory environments and network conditions without adding complexity. A notable example is Alberta; although the market isn’t fully open yet, operators are preparing ahead of time. At GeoLocs, we’re already operational in the region with a major lottery operator and have established a five-year relationship with the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission. This partnership gives operators confidence that they’re working with a provider who understands the local requirements from the outset. Cost also plays a major role in decision-making. Some geolocation solutions rely on continuous location checks, which can become prohibitively expensive at scale. GeoLocs employs a more sophisticated approach by dynamically adjusting check frequency based on a player’s proximity to jurisdictional boundaries. This method enables operators to uphold compliance while significantly improving efficiency and reducing expenses. SBCN: Are there reasons operators switch providers that they don’t discuss publicly? BST: Indeed, and these reasons are not always shared openly. While compliance, accuracy, and cost are most often cited, sometimes the real issue is simply that the relationship with the current provider is no longer effective. Geolocation sits at the heart of regulatory compliance, so operators depend heavily on their provider for transparency, responsiveness, and technical support. When operators begin exploring alternatives, it’s frequently due to frustrations such as delayed support responses, limited access to performance data, or the perception that the underlying technology hasn’t kept pace with industry advancements. In such cases, while the technology may still function adequately, the partnership fails to deliver the value the operator requires. SBCN: Why do you think switching providers is becoming more common now? BST: Historically, many operators remained with their initial geolocation provider simply because they believed switching would be too difficult or costly. There was a widespread assumption that migrating to an alternative solution would involve extensive development efforts, disrupt player verification processes, raise compliance concerns, or incur significant expense. However, the technological landscape has advanced considerably. Modern geolocation platforms are designed to integrate seamlessly with existing operator infrastructure, meaning that switching is often far less disruptive than anticipated. At GeoLocs, we’ve seen customers successfully integrate with our platform within just five days. Simultaneously, operators are growing more comfortable reviewing every aspect of their technology stack—including payments and KYC tools—which are routinely evaluated. Geolocation is now beginning to receive similar scrutiny. To this end, operators no longer need to work exclusively with a single provider. We are observing an increasing number of operators choosing to partner with multiple geolocation providers. However, that topic deserves its own separate discussion. SBCN: What questions should operators be asking about their current geolocation setup? BST: The most important questions tend to be practical in nature. Operators should consider asking themselves: Are we unintentionally introducing friction into the player journey? Are legitimate players being blocked near jurisdictional borders? Have our location checks been optimized from a cost perspective? And most importantly, does our current solution have the capacity to scale alongside our growth into new markets? As operators expand internationally, these operational considerations take on much greater significance. SBCN: Finally, what should operators take away from this trend? BST: The key insight is that although geolocation operates quietly behind the scenes, its impact on the business is substantial. It influences compliance adherence, player experience, operational efficiency, and ultimately, revenue generation. As markets expand and competition intensifies, operators are increasingly scrutinizing every piece of technology that supports their platform. What we’re witnessing now is geolocation being included in broader strategic evaluations. Rather than treating it as a one-time integration that can be ignored thereafter, operators are recognizing that selecting the right technology—and ultimately, the right partner—can make a meaningful difference as they continue to grow. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.

(AsiaGameHub) - As a middle-aged person without children, I find it hard to picture what it feels like to be young and susceptible to gambling addiction. Daniel Durkin, an associate professor of social work at the University of Mississippi, doesn’t have to imagine this scenario. He encounters young people facing these struggles every day. “This is a social blight,” Durkin told CasinoBeats. “Many individuals are grappling with very severe issues related to it.” Durkin then shared a recent anecdote about a father who emailed him concerning his son, who had developed a gambling issue. “I was eager to get a parent’s viewpoint on this,” he stated. “He mentioned that his wife—who works as a realtor—was a key reason he thought to reach out. She’d recently attended a real estate conference where there was a talk about young men graduating from college who can’t save enough for a down payment due to their gambling debts. “So this issue is being discussed even at national real estate conferences.” Betting on Almost Anything Imaginable Prediction markets have provided those aged 18 and above with unparalleled access to wager on nearly any topic. As Durkin pointed out, this is concerning because the brain’s prefrontal cortex—responsible for decision-making and impulse regulation—doesn’t fully mature until the mid-20s. This makes students especially prone to gambling addiction. “I believe we need to take more action than we currently are, as I worry that young people will graduate from college drowning in debt,” Durkin said. “Another worry is that gambling disorder has the highest suicide rate among all behavioral disorders.” Some students are introduced to betting even before they set foot on a college campus. Durkin asks if I’m familiar with Fliff, a platform that uses a dual-currency sweepstakes system. Fliff Coins are for social gaming, while Fliff Cash is for promotional play—this latter currency lets users win actual prizes and cash-like rewards. “High school students are using this platform,” he noted. “While technically they aren’t supposed to, they’re finding ways to do so. My worry here is that they could develop a gambling addiction before they even spend any money. If they engage with it for a few years, by the time they’re old enough to use FanDuel, they already have a problem.” In most states, commercial sportsbooks are off-limits until you turn 21, but young people (and even us older folks) are flooded with ads from DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and other brands. Bet365’s latest ad includes an octopus, and the main character is shown celebrating a win on an 8-leg parlay. Of course—those bets are so responsible and easy to win, right? The constant promotion of same-game parlays turns them into a high-profit product for sportsbooks and a losing proposition for casual gamblers. A recent survey by the National Council on Problem Gambling revealed that 66% of participants were worried about the effects of underage exposure to gambling or gambling-like behaviors. The key question isn’t why young people are gambling more frequently—it’s why we’ve created a system that makes it so challenging for them to avoid betting. This article is provided by a third-party. AsiaGameHub (https://asiagamehub.com/) makes no warranties regarding its content. AsiaGameHub delivers targeted distribution for iGaming, Casino, and eSports, connecting 3,000+ premium Asian media outlets and 80,000+ specialized influencers across ASEAN.